bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Key factors predicting problem-based learning in online environments: Evidence from multimodal learning analytics
Authors: Wang Xiang , Sun Di , Cheng Gang , Luo Heng
Published: February 2023

Problem-based learning (PBL) has been used in different domains, and there is overwhelming evidence of its value. As an emerging field with excellent prospects, learning analytics (LA)—especially multimodal learning analytics (MMLA)—has increasingly attracted the attention of researchers in PBL. However, current research on the integration of LA with PBL has not related LA results with specific PBL steps or paid enough attention to the interaction in peer learning, especially for text data generated from peer interaction. This study employed MMLA based on machine learning (ML) to quantify the process engagement of peer learning, identify log behaviors, self-regulation, and other factors, and then predict online PBL performance. Participants were 104 fourth-year students in an online course on social work and problem-solving. The MMLA model contained multimodal data from online discussions, log files, reports, and questionnaires. ML classification models were built to classify text data in online discussions. The results showed that self-regulation, messages post, message words, and peer learning engagement in representation, solution, and evaluation were predictive of online PBL performance. Hierarchical linear regression analyses indicated stronger predictive validity of the process indicators on online PBL performance than other indicators. This study addressed the scarcity of students’ process data and the inefficiency of analyzing text data, as well as providing information on targeted learning strategies to scaffold students in online PBL.
An empirical study on ‘how to retain rural teachers with emphasis on hygiene or motivation factors’: A case of Western China
Authors: Jiang Jin-Qiu , Yao Jie , Yu Kai-Rui , Li Chong-Nan
Published: February 2023

How to retain prominent teachers is a fundamental problem for rural education in less developed countries. However, the critical institutional factors affecting teachers’ turnover intention still need to be better understood. According to Herzberg’s motivation-hygiene theory, this study examines the effects of hygiene factors (rural incentive policy, personnel policy, and teacher pay) and motivation factors (advancement, work itself, and achievement) on rural teachers’ turnover intention. Based on a sample of 973 rural teachers, the results from structural equation modeling (SEM) showed that both hygiene factors and motivation factors can significantly reduce the turnover intention of rural teachers. Meanwhile, the effect of motivation factors is greater than that of hygiene factors. It was also confirmed that marital status, age, and teaching subject have a significant moderation effect on the relationship between motivation/hygiene factor and turnover intention, whereas gender has no significant moderation effect. Theoretical and practical implications for attracting and retaining rural teachers are discussed.
rTMS investigation of resistant Obsessive-Compulsive Related Disorders: Efficacy of targeting the reward system
Authors: Di Ponzio Michele , Makris Nikos , Tenerini Carlotta , Grassi Eleonora , Ragone Samuele , Pallanti Stefano
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) is not only a therapeutic option but also an investigational tool to explore circuits and subjective dimensions in pathological conditions. Obsessive-Compulsive Related Disorders (OCRDs) shared similarities with Substance Use Disorder (SUD), suggesting the involvement of the reward system. This study aimed to verify the efficacy of targeting the reward system with rTMS in OCRDs.

Methods

Patients with trichotillomania, hoarding disorder and skin picking disorder were treated with rTMS over the left DorsoLateral PreFrontal Cortex (DLPFC) at 15 Hz, targeting the reward system via the connection with the nucleus accumbens and the ventral tegmental area. All patients were administered with psychometric scales assessing depression symptoms and severity of OCRDs symptoms at the baseline, at the end of the treatment and a 1-month follow-up.

Results

Analysis of the results showed a reduction in symptom severity at the end of the treatment in all three groups (p < 0.0001) as well as a reduction in depression symptoms (p < 0.01). Improvements at 1-month follow-up were maintained only in younger patients. Indeed, when changes in scores at the follow-up were analyzed separately for younger (<30 years) and older patients (>60 years), the elderly showed again an increase in symptoms severity, suggesting that the stability of TMS effects over time reduces with age, possibly as an effect of age-related reduction in brain plasticity.

Discussion

This study adopted with promising results a protocol (15 Hz over the left DLPFC) targeting the reward system, typically employed in addictions. These results can be in line with the view of OCRDs as behavioral addictions, suggesting the implication of common circuits, such as the reward system, in the mechanisms at the basis of these disorders.
Psychometric properties of the Chinese version of the fathers’ fear of childbirth scale: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Guo Pingping , Zhang Xuehui , Cui Nianqi , Chen Dandan , Wang Lijuan , Zheng Qiong , Xu Jin , Jin Yin , Mao Minna , Xu Ping , Zhang Wei , Wang Xiaojuan , Xu Xuefen , Zhao Rujia , Feng Suwen
Published: February 2023

Background and Aim

Fear of childbirth (FOC) is one of the most common mental health concerns among expectant fathers, which can cause adverse consequences for themselves and their families. A valid and accurate tool is the key to the identification of FOC. This study aimed to translate and culturally adapt the fathers’ fear of childbirth scale (FFCS) into simplified Chinese and test the scale’s psychometric properties among expectant fathers in mainland China.

Methods

Researchers obtained translation permission and followed the multiphase translation guidelines to develop the Chinese version of the fathers’ fear of childbirth scale (C-FFCS). Relevant psychometric properties were selected for the scale’s psychometric validation on the basis of the Consensus-based Standards for the Selection of Health Status Measurement Instruments checklist. In this cross-sectional study, two samples of expectant fathers were collected in a university-affiliated hospital in Hangzhou between September and October 2022.

Results

A total of 381 expectant fathers completed the C-FFCS, resulting in an effective response rate of 95.6%. The C-FFCS is a 3-factor structure consisting of 16 items, which explained 66.374% of the total variance. The content validity index of items ranged from 0.833 to 1.00, and the scale-level content validity index was 0.931. The confirmatory factor analysis confirmed the scale’s 3-factor structure. Evidence of convergent validity (average variance extracted = 0.508–0.780) as well as discriminant validity offered excellent psychometric support. The Cronbach’s α coefficient, McDonald’s ω coefficient, intraclass correlation coefficient, Spearman-Brown coefficient, and Guttman split-half coefficient are within the satisfactory range (> 0.80). Significant correlations between the scores of the C-FFCS and Childbirth Attitude Questionnaire (r = 0.658, p < 0.01) and Fear of Birth Scale (r = 0.555, p < 0.01) both revealed good concurrent validity. The structure of C-FFCS was invariant across different parity groups, with no floor and ceiling effect.

Conclusion

The C-FFCS was demonstrated to be a sound instrument with good reliability and validity for measuring Chinese expectant fathers’ FOC levels. However, further studies are advocated to verify the C-FFCS among a larger sample that is more representative of the Chinese expectant father population.
Universal health coverage evolution, ongoing trend, and future challenge: A conceptual and historical policy review
Authors: Ranabhat Chhabi Lal , Acharya Shambhu Prasad , Adhikari Chiranjivi , Kim Chun-Bae
Published: February 2023

The goal of universal health coverage (UHC) from the United Nations (UN) has metamorphized from its early phase of primary health care (PHC) to the recent sustainable development goal (SDG). In this context, we aimed to document theoretical and philosophical efforts, historical analysis, financial and political aspects in various eras, and an assessment of coverage during those eras in relation to UHC in a global scenario. Searching with broad keywords circumadjacent to UHC with scope and inter-disciplinary linkages in conceptual analysis, we further narrated the review with the historical development of UHC in different time periods. We proposed, chronologically, these frames as eras of PHC, the millennium development goal (MDG), and the ongoing sustainable development goal (SDG). Literature showed that modern healthcare access and coverage were in extension stages during the PHC era flagshipped with “health for all (HFA)”, prolifically achieving vaccination, communicable disease control, and the use of modern contraceptive methods. Following the PHC era, the MDG era markedly reduced maternal, neonatal, and child mortalities mainly in developing countries. Importantly, UHC has shifted its philosophic stand of HFA to a strategic health insurance and its extension. After 2015, the concept of SDG has evolved. The strategy was further reframed as service and financial assurance. Strategies for further resource allocation, integration of health service with social health protection, human resources for health, strategic community participation, and the challenges of financial securities in some global public health concerns like the public health emergency and travelers' and migrants' health are further discussed. Some policy departures such as global partnership, research collaboration, and experience sharing are broadly discussed for recommendation.
Improving nursing education curriculum as a tool for strengthening the nurse–client relationships in maternal and child healthcare: Insights from a human-centered design study in rural Tanzania
Authors: Isangula Kahabi Ganka , Pallangyo Eunice Siaity , Ndirangu-Mugo Eunice
Published: February 2023

Background

There are growing evidence of poor nurse–client relationships in maternal and child health (MCH). The nursing curriculum forms an important entry point for strengthening such relationships, consequently improving client satisfaction with nurses' competencies, confidence in the formal healthcare system, healthcare-seeking practices, continuity with care, and MCH outcomes.

Objective

MCH nurses and clients were invited to design an intervention package (prototype) to improve nurse–client relationships using a human-centered design (HCD) approach.

Methods

A multi-step HCD approach was employed to first examine the contributors of poor nurse–client relationships using nine focus group discussions with nurses and clients and 12 key informant interviews with MCH administrators. Then, three meetings were held with 10 nurses, 10 clients, and 10 administrators to co-develop an intervention package to address the identified contributors. The solutions were validated by collecting qualitative information through six focus groups with nurses and MCH clients who were not involved in the initial HCD stages. Finally, refinement and adaptation meetings were held with 15 nurses, 15 clients, and 10 administrators. The data were managed with NVivo 12 software and analyzed thematically.

Results

Nursing curriculum challenges contributing to poor nurse–client relationships in MCH care included inadequate content on nurse–client relationships specifically topics of customer care, communication skills, and patient-centered care; an inadequate practice on communication skills within nursing schools; and the absence of specific trainers on interpersonal relationships. Consequently, improving the nursing curriculum was one of the interventions proposed during the co-design and rated by participants as highly acceptable during validation and refinement meetings. Suggested improvements to the curriculum included increasing hours and credits on communication skills and patient-centered care, including customer care courses in the curriculum and creating a friendly learning environment for clinical practice on strengthening interpersonal relationships.

Conclusion

Improving the nursing curriculum was considered by nurses and clients as one of the acceptable interventions to strengthen nurse–client relations in MCH care in rural Tanzania. Nursing education policy and curriculum developers need to ensure the curriculum facilitates the development of much-needed interpersonal skills among nursing graduates for them to have positive therapeutic interactions with their clients.
Influencing factors of work stress of medical workers in clinical laboratory during COVID-19 pandemic: Working hours, compensatory leave, job satisfaction
Authors: He Gang , Chen Yongquan , Wang Dai , Wang Houzhao
Published: February 2023

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to pose unprecedented threats and challenges to global public health. Hospital Clinical Laboratory and public health institutions have been playing an important role in case detection, epidemic research and decision-making, and epidemic prevention and control.

Objective

To explore the current situation and influencing factors of work stress of medical workers in hospital clinical laboratory in fighting against COVID-19.

Methods

A cluster random sampling method was used to select seven hospitals from 14 tertiary hospitals in Xiamen, and medical workers in the selected hospitals were investigated by self-administered questionnaire. A total of 150 medical workers inclinical laboratory participated in this survey, 138 valid questionnaires were collected, with a response rate of 92%.

Results

The work stress scores of the medical workers in the clinical laboratory of hospital in the COVID-19 epidemic were collected (55.22 ± 11.48); The top three dimensions of work stress score were work stress (work load), external environment and doctor-patient relationship. The results of multiple stepwise regression analysis showed that the working hours per day, whether overtime and night shift can get compensatory leave and Job satisfaction with the work of the clinical laboratory were the main factors affecting the work stress level of medical workers in the clinical laboratory of hospital during COVID-19 epidemic.

Conclusion

The COVID-19 has caused great harm to the physical and mental health of the public. Medical staff are in the front line of prevention and control of the epidemic, so medical workers in hospital clinical laboratory exposed to a high level of stress at work. Laboratory leaders and hospital managers should take active and effective measures to reduce the working hours of the medical staff in clinical laboratory, optimize the arrangement of night shift and overtime working, strengthen the training of group and individual pressure management, reduce the work stress of the medical staff, improve the overall happiness of the medical staff in clinical laboratory, and stabilize the clinical laboratory team, improve the physical and mental health of medical workers in clinical laboratory.
Listening to voices from multiple sources: A qualitative text analysis of the emotional experiences of women living with breast cancer in China
Authors: Li Chaixiu , Ure Cathy , Zheng Wanting , Zheng Chunrao , Liu Jianhong , Zhou Chunlan , Jian Biao , Sun Lijun , Li Wenji , Xie Lijun , Mai Yuchang , Zhao Huihui , Liu Yusheng , Lai Jie , Fu Jiaqi , Wu Yanni
Published: February 2023

Background

Receiving a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is both a physical and emotional journey. Previous studies using single-source data have revealed common and culture-specific emotional experiences of patients living with breast cancer. However, few studies have combined such data from multiple sources. Thus, using a variety of data sources, the current study sought to explore the emotional experiences of women in China newly diagnosed, post-operative, or undergoing chemotherapy. We posited that even though women living with breast cancer in China have multiple channels through which they can express these emotional experiences, little variance would be found in their emotional expressivity and the themes they want to express due to cultural inhibitions.

Methods

Text data from female patients newly diagnosed, post-operative, or undergoing chemotherapy were collected between June 2021 and January 2022 via a Python web crawler, semi-structured interviews, and an expressive writing intervention. Data were transcribed and subjected to thematic analysis. Reporting followed the consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative studies (COREQ) guidelines.

Results

Analyses were based on 5,675 Weibo posts and comments published by 448 posters and 1,842 commenters, transcription texts from 17 semi-structured interviews, and 150 expressive writing texts. From this total collection of 461,348 Chinese characters, three major themes emerged: (i) conflicting emotions after diagnosis; (ii) long-term suffering and treatment concerns; and (iii) benefit finding and cognitive reappraisal.

Conclusions

Despite gathering information from various sources, we found that distress from body-image disturbances, gender role loss and conflict, and changes in sexuality and fertility, were consistent among this sample of female Chinese patients with breast cancer. However, when women engaged actively in benefit finding and cognitive reappraisal with strong social support, patients were able to find ways to adapt and reported post-traumatic growth. Strong social support was an important facilitator in this growth. These study findings emphasize that healthcare professionals ought to increase cultural sensitivity, provide multiple channels to encourage patients to express their emotions, and incorporate screening for patients' emotional distress at all diagnostic and treatment phases as part of routine nursing care.
Prevalence and risk factors for subclinical atherosclerosis amongst adults living with HIV in University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Gwagwalada
Authors: Adedokun Taiwo A. , Kwaghe Vivian G. , Adedokun Oluwasanmi , Badru Titilope , Odili Augustine N. , Alfa Jacob , Kolade-Yunusa Hadijat O. , Ojji Dike B.
Published: February 2023

Background

Subclinical atherosclerosis characterizes cardiovascular diseases (CVD), and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection and antiretroviral therapy (ART) are identified risk factors for atherosclerosis. Meanwhile, data on HIV and atherosclerosis in Nigeria are limited.

Objectives

We sought to estimate the prevalence of subclinical atherosclerosis and associated risk factors amongst adult persons living with HIV/AIDS (PLHIV) enrolled at University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Gwagwalada, Abuja (UATH).

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study of 277 consecutively selected PLHIV ≥18 years enrolled for HIV care and treatment at UATH. Pretested structured questionnaire was used to collect data from consenting ART-experienced and ART-naïve patients on risk factors of atherosclerosis. Carotid intima media thickness (CIMT) ≥0.71 mm as measured by Doppler ultrasonography was used to identify patients with sub-clinical atherosclerosis. Two logistic regression models with (Model-A) and without (Model-B) traditional risk factors were fitted to identify risk factors of subclinical atherosclerosis.

Results

Participants' mean age was 39.44 ± 10.71 years with female preponderance (64.26%). Overall prevalence of subclinical atherosclerosis was 43.32% (62.25% in ART-experienced). Model-A identified male sex [AOR 4.33(1.74–10.76), p = 0.002], advancing age [30–39 years AOR 5.95(1.31–26.96), p = 0.021]; ≥40 years AOR 19.51(4.30–88.56), p ≤ 0.001), advancing HIV infection [≥WHO stage II AOR 4.19(1.11–15.92), p = 0.035], hypercholesterolemia [AOR 3.88(1.47–10.25), p ≤ 0.001] and ≥5 year duration on ART [AOR 9.05(3.16–25.92), p ≤ 0.001] as risk factors of subclinical atherosclerosis. In Model-B (excluding traditional risk factors) on the other hand, advancing HIV infection [≥WHO stage II AOR 3.93(1.19–13.042), p = 0.025] and duration on ART [≥5 years AOR 11.43(4.62–28.29), p = 0.001] were found as risk factors of subclinical atherosclerosis.

Conclusion

Subclinical atherosclerosis was higher in ART-experienced patients, and this was irrespective of presence or absence of traditional risk factors. And advancing HIV disease and duration on ART were found as significant risk factors for subclinical atherosclerosis. We therefore recommend routine CVD risk screening in PLHIV.
Attachment: The What, the Why, and the Long-Term Effects
Authors: Davis Abi M. B. , Carnelley Katherine B.
Published: February 2023

The bond between a child and the child’s caretaker is special. Such bonds are important for human survival. This special early bond is called an attachment. Scientists have shown that children can have one of four attachment styles, based on their relationship with the main person who looks after them. Each attachment style can have unique effects on children that can sometimes (though not always) carry on through teenage years and into adulthood. In this article, we explain what attachment is, what it looks like throughout a person’s lifetime, and what the effects of each attachment style are.
Sport and mental health performance optimization in an adolescent gymnast: A case evaluation
Authors: Phrathep Davy , Donohue Brad , Renn Brenna N. , Mercer John , Allen Daniel N.
Published: February 2023

The Optimum Performance Program in Sports (TOPPS) is a multi-component, sport-specific Family Behavior Therapy that has demonstrated improved sport performance, relationships, and mental health outcomes in adult and adolescent athletes with, and without, diagnosed mental health disorders in clinical trials. The current case trial demonstrates successful implementation of a novel component of TOPPS (i.e., talk aloud optimal sport performance imagery leading to dream mapping) in a biracial Latina and White adolescent gymnast without a mental health diagnosis. The participant demonstrated significant improvements from baseline to both post-treatment and 3-month follow-up in severity of mental health functioning, factors interfering with sports performance, and her relationships with teammates, coaches, and family. Results suggest it may be possible to optimize mental health through sport performance optimization.
Early costs and complications of first-line low-grade glioma treatment using a large national database: Limitations and future perspectives
Authors: Tuohy Kyle , Ba Djibril M. , Bhanja Debarati , Leslie Douglas , Liu Guodong , Mansouri Alireza
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Diffuse Low-grade gliomas (DLGG, WHO Grade II) are a heterogenous group of tumors comprising 13–16% of glial tumors. While maximal safe resection is endorsed as the best approach to DLGG, compared to more conservative interventions like stereotactic biopsy, the added costs and risks have not been systematically evaluated. The purpose of this study was to better understand the complication rates and costs associated with each intervention.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study using data from the IBM Watson Health MarketScan® Commercial Claims and Encounters database was conducted, using the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision (ICD-9) codes corresponding to DLGG (2005–2014). Current Procedure Terminology, 4th Edition (CPT-4) codes were used to differentiate resection and biopsy cohorts. Inverse weighting by the propensity score was used to balance baseline potential confounders (age, sex, pre-op seizure, geographic region, year, Charleston Comorbidity Index). Complication rates, hospital mortality, readmission, and costs were compared between groups.

Results

We identified 5,784 and 3,635 patients undergoing resection and biopsy, respectively, for initial DLGG management. Resection was associated with greater 30-day complications (29.17% vs. 26.34%; p < 0.05). However, this association became non-significant after inverse propensity weighting (adjusted odds ratio = 1.09; 0.98–1.20). There was no statistically significant difference in unadjusted, 30-day hospital mortality (p = 0.06) or re-admission (p = 0.52). Resection was associated with higher 90-day total costs (p < 0.0001) and drug costs (p < 0.0001). Biopsy was associated with greater index procedure costs (p < 0.0001). Long-term outcomes and evaluation of DLGG subtypes was not possible given limitations in the metrics recorded in MarketScan and lack of specificity in the ICD coding system.

Conclusion

Resection was not associated with an increase in the adjusted complication rate after balancing for baseline prognostic factors. Total costs and drug costs were higher with resection of DLGG, but the index procedure costs were higher for biopsy. This data should help to facilitate prospective health economic analyses in the future to understand the cost-effectiveness, and impact on quality of life, for DLGG interventions. However, the use of large national databases for studying long-term outcomes in DLGG management should be discouraged until there is greater specificity in the ICD coding system for DLGG subtypes.
Predictors of residual low back pain in patients with osteoporotic vertebral fractures following percutaneous kyphoplasty
Authors: Yu Hongwei , Luo Gan , Wang Ziqi , Yu Bin , Sun Tianwei , Tang Qiong
Published: February 2023

Objective

Patients with osteoporotic vertebral fractures (OVFs) often suffer from residual low back pain (LBP) after percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP). The purpose of this study was to identify risk factors for postoperative residual LBP and to develop a nomogram to predict the occurrence of residual LBP.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 236 patients who underwent PKP for OVFs and had a minimum follow-up of 12 months. The mean age was 72.1 ± 6.3, 74.3% were female and 25.7% were male. Patients with LBP VAS scores ≥ 3.5 at the 12th month postoperatively were considered to have residual LBP. Risk factors for residual LBP were identified by univariate and multifactorial logistic regression analysis. Then, a predictive nomogram was constructed and validated using the bootstrap method. The discrimination, calibration, and clinical utility of the nomogram were assessed using a receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC), a calibration curve, and a decision curve analysis (DCA).

Results

univariate and multifactorial logistic regression analysis identified depression (P = 0.02), intravertebral vacuum cleft (P = 0.01), no anti-osteoporosis treatment (P < 0.001), cement volume <3 ml (P = 0.02), and cement distrubution (P = 0.01) as independent risk factors for residual LBP. The area under the ROC was 0.83 (0.74–0.93) and further validated by bootstrap method was 0.83 (0.73–0.92). The calibration curve illustrated the consistency between the predicted probability and the observed results. DCA showed that nomogram exhibits clinical utility and net benefit when the threshold probability is between 6% and 73%.

Conclusions

Our study found that depression, intravertebral vacuum cleft, no anti-osteoporosis treatment, cement volume <3 ml and cement distribution represent independent risk factors for residual LBP. The nomogram containing the above five predictors can accurately predict the risk of residual LBP after surgery.
A Study on Technology Acceptance of Digital Healthcare among Older Korean Adults Using Extended Tam (Extended Technology Acceptance Model)
Authors: Zin Khin Shoon Lei Thant , Kim Seieun , Kim Hak-Seon , Feyissa Israel Fisseha
Published: February 2023

The use of digital health and wrist-worn wearable technologies have been increasingly utilized, especially during COVID-19 surge, to help monitor patients and vulnerable groups such as elderly people. As one of the countries with highest aging population, South Korean older adults are expected to be familiarized with these healthcare technologies. However, there have been a few studies on the investigation of Korean older adults’ attitude towards the acceptance of wearable technologies, such as a smart health watch after the COVID-19 curve flattened in South Korea. Thus, the purpose of this study is to investigate the acceptability of digital health wearable technology in healthcare by the Korean older adults and their attitude towards the use of smart health watches by using an extended Technology Acceptance Model while considering the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. We performed a cross-sectional survey of Korean adults aged 56 years and older who are living in Busan, and a total of 170 respondents were received. Results reveal that perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, and facilitating conditions have a significant impact on older Korean’s attitudes towards the use of a smart health watch, while the relationship between social influence and attitude towards its use was found to not be statistically significant. The attitude towards the use of smart health watches had an effect on their intention to use the smartwatch. By using the findings from the study, the digital wearables providers, manufacturers, and promotors can enhance their strategy to elevate the use of digital healthcare wearables among Korean elderly people while ensuring these products are of good quality and affordable, as well as ensuring necessary assistance is provided to the elderly people when utilizing and adopting these wearables in their everyday lives. Moreover, the results of this study can be utilized to accommodate the needs of Korean elderly people regarding their use of smart health watches and help promote the benefits of healthcare wearable technologies after the pandemic subsides.
Effect of Cage and Floor Housing Systems on Muscle Fiber Characteristics, Carcass Characteristics, and Meat Quality of Slow-Growing Meat-Type Chickens
Authors: Sun Yanyan , Liu Chen , Li Yunlei , Li Dongli , Shi Lei , Chen Jilan
Published: February 2023

This study compared floor (FS) with cage systems (CS) for slow-growing meat-type chickens in terms of muscle fiber characteristics, carcass characteristics, and meat quality. Following the design of a factorial arrangement of 2 housing systems × 2 genders, 180 male and 180 female Beijing You chickens of 8 weeks old were allocated to FS and CS. At the end of 17 weeks, five males and five females from each replicate were selected for measurement. No difference was observed in body, carcass, or eviscerated weight (p > 0.05). FS birds showed higher muscle yield and lower abdominal fat composition (p < 0.05). Inosine-5′-monophosphate (IMP) content was not affected by housing system or gender (p > 0.05). On the contrary, intramuscular fat (IMF) content was affected by both in a way that CS birds and females had higher IMF content (p < 0.05). FS birds had a higher percentage of white muscle fibers (p < 0.05). In conclusion, carcass characteristics, meat quality, and muscle fiber type of slowing-growing broilers are influenced: rearing on the floor may improve muscle development and reduce fat deposition without impairing marketing weight and rearing in cages may improve IMF content.
Evaluation of the Quality and Possible Use of a New Generation of Agricultural Nets for Packing Bulk Materials in Terms of the Aspect of Reducing the Environmental Burden
Authors: Kowalik Ireneusz , Zawieja Bogna , Rybacki Piotr , Krzyżaniak Krzysztof
Published: February 2023

In modern agriculture, packaging materials are becoming an important means of production in the technologies for harvesting bulk materials. The agricultural net currently used for this purpose is usually made of HDPE—high-density polyethylene. The aim of the study was to evaluate the agricultural net produced in light technology under the commercial name of Covernet. Based on the tests conducted for nine variants of different models of round balers and different bulk materials collected by them, it can be concluded that, in each case, the net (Tama LT) wrapped the cylindrical bales well or very well. The mean elongation of COVERNET during bale wrapping was over 8% for the tested machines and harvested materials. The tests confirmed the usefulness of the new generation of agricultural nets (Tama LT) for wrapping various agricultural bulk materials of various humidities. There is an urgent need to develop and implement in practice a technology for recovering used agricultural nets and converting them into granules that can be used again in their production.
Traceability, Value, and Trust in the Coffee Market: A Natural Experiment in Ethiopia
Authors: Mbakop Ludovic , Jenkins Glenn P. , Leung Leonard , Sertoglu Kamil
Published: February 2023

This study measures the impact of traceability attributes on international buyers’ willingness to pay for coffee produced in Ethiopia and the impact of accurate information on the production location of the coffee on the pricing according to its type and grade. Two sets of regression models were used to investigate the important determinant factors affecting the export prices of trader and producer coffee, one each for trader and producer coffee, to measure the impact of the Ethiopian Commodity Exchange (ECX) on the prices and to evaluate the effect of the coffee types and grades on the prices. The results show that after coffee was forced to be traded via the (ECX), traceable coffee export prices increased more than the reported price of nontraceable coffee. We also found that after the introduction of the ECX, the reported export prices of coffee were much more closely aligned to the movements in the international prices of coffee than before the ECX. Furthermore, we also found evidence that exporters and overseas buyers do not trust the results of the inspection and grading of coffee by the ECX unless traceability is also present. This is the first study to evaluate foreign buyers’ willingness to pay for the attribute of traceability of Ethiopian coffee and to see how traceability has affected buyers’ trust in the grades given by the ECX for the coffee it grades.
Advanced Continuous Monitoring System—Tools for Water Resource Management and Decision Support System in Salt Affected Delta
Authors: Reljić Marko , Romić Marija , Romić Davor , Gilja Gordon , Mornar Vedran , Ondrasek Gabrijel , Bubalo Kovačić Marina , Zovko Monika
Published: February 2023

The greatest environmental problem facing the world today is climate change, with a rise in sea level being one of the most important consequences, especially in low-lying coastal areas, such as river deltas where changes are exacerbated by human impacts, leading to increased seawater intrusion into coastal aquifers and the degradation of water quality. Water quality monitoring systems are being developed and deployed to monitor changes in the aquatic environment. With technological progress, traditional sampling-based water monitoring has been supplemented with sensors and automated data acquisition and transmission devices, resulting in the automation of water quality monitoring systems. This paper reviews the recent development and application of automated continuous water quality monitoring systems. It also draws on the results of our own experience in implementing such a system in the Neretva River Delta on the Croatian Adriatic coast. The installed system provides (near) real-time data on parameters such as temperature, pH, EC, TDS, and DO in the water, as well as a number of soil and weather variables, with data available at a high frequency through a developed database and web portal for various stakeholders. Continuous monitoring enables the collection of big data that can be used to develop models for predictions of water quality parameters and to develop guidelines for future management.
BAG: A Linear-Nonlinear Hybrid Time Series Prediction Model for Soil Moisture
Authors: Wang Guoying , Zhuang Lili , Mo Lufeng , Yi Xiaomei , Wu Peng , Wu Xiaoping
Published: February 2023

Soil moisture time series data are usually nonlinear in nature and are influenced by multiple environmental factors. The traditional autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) method has high prediction accuracy but is only suitable for linear problems and only predicts data with a single column of time series. The gated recurrent unit neural network (GRU) can achieve the prediction of time series and nonlinear multivariate data, but a single nonlinear model does not yield optimal results. Therefore, a hybrid time series prediction model, BAG, combining linear and nonlinear characteristics of soil moisture, is proposed in this paper to achieve the identification process of linear and nonlinear relationships in soil moisture data so as to improve the accuracy of prediction results. In BAG, block Hankel tensor ARIMA (BHT-ARIMA) and GRU are selected to extract the linear and nonlinear features of soil moisture data, respectively. BHT-ARIMA is applied to predict the linear part of the soil moisture, and GRU is used to predict the residual series, which is the nonlinear part, and the superposition of the two predicted results is the final prediction result. The performance of the proposed model on five real datasets was evaluated. The results of the experiments show that BAG has a higher prediction accuracy compared with other prediction models for different amounts of data and different numbers of environmental factors.
Effects of Supplementation of 25-Hydroxyvitamin D3 as a Vitamin D3 Substitute on Performance, Bone Traits, and Egg Quality of Laying Hens from 1 Day to 72 Weeks of Age
Authors: Li Dongdong , Ding Xuemei , Bai Shiping , Wang Jianping , Zeng Qiufeng , Peng Huanwei , Xuan Yue , Zhang Keying
Published: February 2023

This experiment was conducted to explore the effect of long-term supplementation of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25-OHD) as a vitamin D3 (VD3) substitute on performance, bone traits, and egg quality of laying hens from 1 day to 72 weeks of age. In total, 900 one-day-old Lohman pullets were randomly allotted into three dietary groups (three treatments × 15 replicates × 20 birds per replicate): VD3 2800 IU/kg; 25-OHD 69 μg/kg; 25-OHD 125 μg/kg. At the end of the 20th w, five replicates from each group were selected to feed on the same vitamin D diets, as used during the rearing stage (1–20 w) until 72 w. The result showed that the 25-OHD 125 μg/kg treatment had the lowest average daily feed intake (ADFI) at 1–8 or 1–19 w, body weight at 8 w, body weight gain between 1 and 8 w and shank length at 4 w (p < 0.05). The 25-OHD 125 μg/kg treatment had a lower shank length at 7 w, compared with the 25-OHD 69 μg/kg treatment. The shank length of the birds in each treatment reached the maximum (about 103 mm) at about 18 w of age. For the bone traits, the 25-OHD 125 μg/kg treatment had the lowest femur bone diameter at 20 w (p < 0.001) and femur bone plumpness at 20 w (p = 0.002). The 25-OHD 125 μg/kg treatment had a lower tibia strength at 10 w (p = 0.023) and keel length at 10 w (p = 0.046), compared with the 25-OHD 69 μg/kg treatment. However, both 25-OHD 69 and 125 μg/kg treatments had a greater femur strength at 72 w (p = 0.006), compared with the VD3 2800 IU/kg treatment. No difference in laying performance was observed among all treatments. The overall (21–72 w) ADFI in the 25-OHD 125 μg/kg treatment was significantly lower than that in the 25-OHD 69 μg/kg treatment (p = 0.030). At 60 w, the 25-OHD 125 μg/kg treatment had a lower eggshell thickness (p = 0.012) and proportion of eggshell (p = 0.022), compared with the 25-OHD 69 μg/kg treatment. No significant differences in egg quality parameters were observed at 50 and 70 w among treatments. In general, supplementary 2800 IU/kg doses of VD3 at the early stage were sufficient to maintain the bone quality and growth and development of pullets. Feeding birds at a higher 25-OHD level (125 μg/kg) resulted in the reduced ADFI and growth at the rearing period, but the long-term supplementation of 25-OHD as a VD3 substitute improved the bone quality in the late laying period.
Soil Organic Carbon Significantly Increases When Perennial Biomass Plantations Are Reverted Back to Annual Arable Crops
Authors: Martani Enrico , Ferrarini Andrea , Hastings Astley , Amaducci Stefano
Published: February 2023

The cultivation of perennial biomass crops (PBCs) on marginal lands is necessary to provide feedstock for the bio-based EU economy and accrue environmental benefits through carbon (C) sequestration in soil. Short rotation coppice (SRC) species, e.g., willow, black locust, and poplar, and perennial rhizomatous grasses, e.g., miscanthus, switchgrass, and giant reed, have been tested in many EU projects in the last 10 years to investigate their productive potential and contribution to the mitigation of climate change. A major knowledge gap regarding PBCs is the fate of accumulated soil organic carbon (SOC), once PBC plantations are reverted to arable crops. In this study, the effects of PBCs reversion on SOC and carbon-dioxide emission (CO2) were monitored over a 2-year period in a long-term (11-year) multispecies trial of six PBCs: Three SRC species including poplar (Populus spp.), willow (Salix spp.), and black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia), and three herbaceous rhizomatous grasses including miscanthus (Miscanthus x giganteus), switchgrass (Panicum virgatum), and giant reed (Arundo donax). The SOC change and GHG emissions were then modeled with the ECOSSE model. Two years after the reversion, SOC increased significantly for all PBCs with no significant difference between them. During the PBC cultivation phase, 5.35 Mg SOC ha−1 was sequestered while 10.95 Mg SOC ha−1 was added by reversion, which indicated that 67% of SOC sequestration occurred after the reversion. The ECOSSE model was successfully used to simulate SOC sequestration trajectories (R2 = 0.77) and CO2 emission from soil (R2 = 0.82) after the reversion of the six PBCs. This indicated that the high SOC sequestration rate after the reversion was due to humification of belowground biomass (roots + rhizomes/stumps), which had been mulched and incorporated into the reversion layer (0–30 cm). This occurred in the first 2 months (on average 5.47 Mg SOC ha−1 y−1) and in the first year after the reversion (1.3–1.8 Mg SOC ha−1 y−1). Considering the entire PBCs cultivation cycle (13 years of PBCs + reversion), PBCs showed annual SOC sequestration rates higher than 1 Mg SOC ha−1 y−1, placing PBCs cultivation and reversion as one of the most promising agricultural practices to combine biomass production, with the recovery of marginal lands to agricultural production through increasing the SOC.
Mitigating Ammonia Volatilization without Compromising Yield and Quality of Rice through the Application of Controlled-Release, Phosphorus-Blended Fertilizers
Authors: Ahmad Sajjad , Nadeem Muhammad Yousaf , Gao Shen , Li Quanxin , Tao Weike , Li Weiwei , Ding Yanfeng , Li Ganghua
Published: February 2023

Ammonia (NH3) volatilization from paddy fields is a major issue which leads to poor fertilizer use efficiency and is considered a severe threat to the atmosphere. The previous research studies gave importance to the use of nitrogen fertilizers to mitigate NH3 volatilization, while very little emphasis was given to the role of other fertilizers, such as phosphorus (P), for the alleviation of NH3 volatilization in rice fields. Considering P importance herein, we conducted two consecutive field experiments using an innovative, controlled-release, phosphorus-blended fertilizer (CRPBF, with levels CRP0, CRP1, and CRP2). We compared CP0 (in which no fertilizer was applied), CP1 (112.5 kg P ha−1 P of locally recommended fertilizers), and CP2: (P and K blended fertilizers) to determine the best possible way to reduce NH3 volatilization without affecting the yield and quality of rice. The results of the study suggested that the yield of rice increased significantly with the application of CRP1 (11.11 t ha−1) and CRP2 (11.99 t ha−1). The addition of CRP1 and CRP2 to the rice field also enhanced yield-related components, i.e., panicle weight, total spikelets per unit area, spikelets per panicle, and above-ground biomass. CRP0 showed a lower yield and related components when compared to CP2. The addition of CRP1 and CRP2 demonstrated lower protein contents when compared to other treatments. The CRPBF application improved starch content and taste scores, and reduced the chalkiness of the rice grain during both years. The results showed a decreasing trend in NH3 volatilization from CRPBF amendments by improving the nitrogen use efficiency traits when compared to other treatments: CRP2, CRP1, and CRP0 reduced NH3 volatilization by 45%, 35%, and 15%, respectively. The results of this study indicate that, due to the episodic nature of NH3 volatilization, CRPBFs with 50% P and 100% P can markedly reduce NH3 volatilization from paddy fields without compromising the yield and quality of the crop, and could be a promising alternative to the ordinary commercial fertilizers used in rice fields.
Dry Matter Losses in Silages Resulting from Epiphytic Microbiota Activity—A Comprehensive Study
Authors: Wróbel Barbara , Nowak Janusz , Fabiszewska Agata , Paszkiewicz-Jasińska Anna , Przystupa Wojciech
Published: February 2023

An overview was made of dry matter (DM) and quality losses that occur during the ensiling process. The aim was to review the current knowledge on the course of the fermentation pathways in various raw materials and the loss of DM accompanying this process. This review discusses the main groups of microorganisms involved in the ensiling process, the accompanying fermentation patterns, and the resulting DM losses. The possibility of reducing DM and quality losses during the ensiling process in practice is presented. The paper concludes with future perspectives and recommended management practices to reduce losses over the whole ensiling process.
Effect of Fomesafen on the Nutritional Quality and Amino Acids of Vigna angularis Based on Metabonomics
Authors: Tang Huacheng , Yang Jian , Cao Dongmei
Published: February 2023

At present, fomesafen is widely used to control weeds in Vigna angularis fields. To explore the effect of fomesafen (FSA) on the nutritional value and amino acids of Vigna angularis, the protein, fat, water, ash, sand yield, and hundred-grain weight of Vigna angularis were measured using Vigna angularis sprayed with or without FSA. A non-targeted metabonomics and a high-throughput targeted amino acid analysis of Vigna angularis were performed using the metabonomics technology of liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS). The results showed that the protein (23.39 ± 0.16%) and fat (0.49 ± 0.05%) in sprayed Vigna angularis (Z-2-GS-2) were significantly different from the protein (19.88 ± 0.05%) and fat (0.71 ± 0.06%) in non-sprayed Vigna angularis (GS), indicating that a certain amount of FSA could promote the synthesis of protein in Vigna angularis and inhibit the formation of fat. A total of 63 metabolites with significant differences were screened from the non-targeted metabonomic analysis, including isoprene lipids, carboxylic acids, organic oxygen compounds, and carboxylic acid derivatives. Seventeen metabolic pathways were enriched. Five metabolic pathways with significant differences were screened according to p < 0.05, including alanine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid metabolism, tryptophan metabolism, and arginine biosynthesis, indicating that FSA had a significant effect on amino acid metabolism in Vigna angularis. Through targeted amino acid analysis, 21 different amino acids in Vigna angularis were accurately determined qualitatively and quantitatively. Among them, the contents of Asp and Glu increased under the influence of FSA, while the contents of Phe, His, and Ile decreased, which proved that FSA would cause the sweet taste of Vigna angularis to increase, reducing the flavor. Use of FSA will lead to the increase in protein content, ash content, and sand yield of Vigna angularis, while also leading to the decrease of fat content, water content, and hundred-grain weight. The use of FSA will also have a particular impact on the nutritional value, health care efficacy, and taste of Vigna angularis. The results of this study provide new ideas for follow-up research on the rational use of FSA in the field of Vigna angularis and the development of Vigna angularis health food.