bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wood identification of Cyclobalanopsis (Endl.) Oerst based on microscopic features and CTGAN-enhanced explainable machine learning models
Authors: Zhan Weihui , Chen Bowen , Wu Xiaolian , Yang Zhen , Lin Che , Lin Jinguo , Guan Xin
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Accurate and fast identification of wood at the species level is critical for protecting and conserving tree species resources. The current identification methods are inefficient, costly, and complex

Methods

A wood species identification model based on wood anatomy and using the Cyclobalanopsis genus wood cell geometric dataset was proposed. The model was enhanced by the CTGAN deep learning algorithm and used a simulated cell geometric feature dataset. The machine learning models BPNN and SVM were trained respectively for recognition of three Cyclobalanopsis species with simulated vessel cells and simulated wood fiber cells.

Results

The SVM model and BPNN model achieved recognition accuracy of 96.4% and 99.6%, respectively, on the real dataset, using the CTGAN-generated vessel dataset. The BPNN model and SVM model achieved recognition accuracy of 75.5% and 77.9% on real dataset, respectively, using the CTGAN-generated wood fiber dataset.

Discussion

The machine learning model trained based on the enhanced cell geometric feature data by CTGAN achieved good recognition of Cyclobalanopsis, with the SVM model having a higher prediction accuracy than BPNN. The machine learning models were interpreted based on LIME to explore how they identify tree species based on wood cell geometric features. This proposed model can be used for efficient and cost-effective identification of wood species in industrial applications.
Psychopathology, cortisol and testosterone responses to traumatic images: differences between urban and suburban citizens in a middle-income country
Authors: Mayagoitia-Novales Lilian , Cerda-Molina Ana Lilia , Mendoza-Mojica Sheila Adriana , Borráz-León Javier I. , Hernández-Melesio M. Alejandra , Saldívar-Hernández Gabriela Josefina
Published: July 2023

Background

Living in urban places has been associated with a higher risk of psychopathology as well as with altered hypothalamus–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis and consequently altered cortisol response, but studies have concentrated mainly in high-income countries population. The role of other hormones such as testosterone, implicated in stress response and with human social behaviors, have not yet been investigated. The aim of this study was to compare symptoms of psychopathology as well as cortisol and testosterone in response to traumatic images between urban and suburban people in a middle-income country.

Methods

A sample of 67 women and 55 men (N = 122, 18–45 years) from urban and suburban places of Mexico participated in the study. We quantified salivary cortisol and testosterone in response to images with traumatic and violent content (basal, 15, 30, and 45 min after images). Participants answered a general information questionnaire and the Symptom Checklist-90-R to assess their psychopathological traits. We performed Generalized Estimating Equation Models to analyze hormonal levels and MANOVAs to compare differences in participants’ psychopathology symptoms. Area under the curve respect to ground (AUCG) of hormonal levels and sex differences were also compared.

Results

Suburban citizens showed no cortisol response, whereas urban people showed a cortisol peak 15 min after the image’s exposure; however, suburban people had higher AUCG and basal levels compared to urban ones. Contrastingly, testosterone levels declined in all participants excepting the urban women, who showed no testosterone response. Although similar testosterone profile, AUCG levels were higher in urban than suburban men. Participants living in suburban areas had higher scores of somatizations, obsessive–compulsive, and interpersonal sensitivity, as well as more sleep disorders than participants living in urban areas.

Conclusion

This study offers novel evidence about differences in cortisol and testosterone responses to a social stressor and in mental health indicators between a population of urban and suburban citizens, highlighting the impact of urbanization process on physiological and psychological outcomes in a middle-income country.
Key predictors of psychological distress and wellbeing in Australian frontline healthcare workers during COVID-19 (Omicron wave)
Authors: Lee Brian En Chyi , Ling Mathew , Boyd Leanne , Olsson Craig A. , Sheen Jade
Published: July 2023

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to significant challenges for frontline healthcare workers’ (FHW), raising many mental health and wellbeing concerns for this cohort. To facilitate identification of risk and protective factors to inform treatment and interventions, this study investigated key predictors of psychological distress and subjective wellbeing in FHWs.

Methods

During the Omicron wave of the COVID-19 pandemic (January 2022), Victorian (Australia) doctors, nurses, allied health and non-medical staff from Emergency Departments, Intensive Care units, Aged Care, Hospital In The Home, and COVID Wards completed a cross-sectional survey consisting of the Kessler 6 item (Psychological Distress), Personal Wellbeing Index (Subjective Wellbeing), Coronavirus Health Impact Survey tool (COVID-19 related factors) and occupational factors. Multivariable linear regressions were used to evaluate unadjusted and adjusted associations. Relative weight analysis was used to compare and identify key predictors.

Results

Out of 167 participants, 18.1% screened positive for a probable mental illness and a further 15.3% screened positive for low wellbeing. Key risk factors for greater psychological distress included COVID infection worries, relationship stress and younger age. For both psychological distress and lower wellbeing, health status and supervisor support were key protective factors, while infection risks were key risk factors. Only positive changes in relationship quality was protective of lower wellbeing.

Conclusion

This study highlights the significance of social determinants and individual level factors alongside work related factors, in influencing FHWs’ mental health and wellbeing during public health crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Findings suggest that future interventions and supports should take a more holistic approach that considers work, social and individual level factors when supporting FHWs’ mental health and wellbeing.
Selfhood and alterity: schizophrenic experience between Blankenburg and Tatossian
Authors: Guardascione Alessandro
Published: July 2023

This paper presents a critical comparison between two phenomenological accounts of schizophrenic experience: on the one side, Blankenburg’s seminal work on the basal disturbance (Grundstörung) of schizophrenia as loss of natural self-evidence (Natürlichen Selbstverständlichkeit); on the other side, Tatossian’s insight, briefly elaborated in a lecture presented in Heidelberg in 1994 and largely forgotten by the relevant literature. Whereas the former mainly develops an intersubjective reading of schizophrenia, the latter suggests an intrasubjective understanding. Indeed, for Blankenburg, schizophrenic experience can be broadly characterized as a progressive impoverishment of our rootedness in the social world, leading to derealization and depersonalization. In this respect, Tatossian takes schizophrenic autism not as the effect of a loss of originary sociality but as the result of a deeper disproportion. For Tatossian, schizophrenia is characterized, ultimately, by a basic self-disorder or alteration that consists in the breakdown of the twofold dimension of transcendental subjectivity, encompassing both constituting consciousness and phenomenologizing onlooker. In this sense, his interpretation of schizophrenic disorders is closer to the ipseity-disturbance model. I show that while Blankenburg and Tatossian share a dialectical understanding of schizophrenia by pointing to basic modifications of the “transcendental organization” of experience, their divergence originates from a different reading of the phenomenological epoché. Except for the clinical perspective, the point of contention between Blankenburg and Tatossian seems to concern their use of internal resources of the Husserlian phenomenology. By presenting the philosophical presuppositions of their analyses, I discuss two key figures of phenomenological psychopathology by showing how their debate on the meaning of schizophrenic experience can be reframed by looking at the relationship between transcendental subjectivity and intersubjectivity in Husserl’s phenomenology.
Money talks: performance-based reimbursement systems impact on perceived work, health and patient care for physicians in Sweden
Authors: Brulin Emma , Ekberg Kerstin , Landstad Bodil J. , Lidwall Ulrik , Sjöström Malin , Wilczek Alexander
Published: July 2023

Introduction

The study aimed to investigate in which way performance-based reimbursement (PBR) systems in Swedish healthcare services (1) subjectively impacted physicians’ work and patient care and (2) were associated with the occurrence of stress-induced exhaustion disorders among physicians.

Method

The study applied a mixed-method design. Data were collected from a representative sample of Swedish physicians. In the questionnaire, respondents were asked to answer an open-ended question regarding their reflections on PBR. The answers to the open-ended question were analysed using thematic analysis. Respondents were also asked to rate the impact of PBR on their work. The association between PBR and self-rated stress-induced exhaustion disease was analysed with logistic regressions. Stress-induced exhaustion disorder was measured using the Burnout Assessment Scale.

Results

Thematic analysis resulted in four themes: (1) Money talks, (2) Patients are affected, (3) Medical morals are challenged, and (4) PBR increase the quantity of illegitimate tasks. Logistic regressions showed that physicians who experienced PBR had an impact on their work and had a two-fold higher risk of stress-induced exhaustion disorder.

Discussion

Our findings suggest that current reimbursement systems in Sweden play an essential role in Swedish healthcare and negatively influence physicians’ work and health. Also, current PBR impact patients negatively. No previous study has explored the potentially harmful impact of PBR on how physicians perceive work, health and patient care. Results indicate that policymakers should be encouraged to deeply review PBR systems and focus on ways that they can limit the negative impact on physicians’ work and health while meeting future challenges.
Healthcare-associated adverse events and readmission to the emergency departments within seven days after a first consultation
Authors: Gasperini Guillaume , Bouazzi Leila , Sanchez Antoine , Marotte Louis , Kézachian Laury , Bellec Guillaume , Cazes Nicolas , Rosetti Maxime , Bousquet Claire , Renard Aurélien , Sanchez Stéphane
Published: July 2023

Introduction

The use of emergency hospital service has become increasingly frequent with a rise of approximately 3.6%. in annual emergency department visits. The objective of this study was to describe the reasons for reconsultations to emergency departments and to identify the risk and protective factors of reconsultations linked to healthcare-associated adverse events.

Materials and methods

A retrospective, descriptive, multicenter study was performed in the emergency department of Troyes Hospital and the Sainte Anne Army Training Hospital in Toulon, France from January 1 to December 31, 2019. Patients over 18 years of age who returned to the emergency department for a reconsultation within 7 days were included. Healthcare-associated adverse events in the univariate analysis (p < 0.10) were introduced into a multivariate logistic regression model. Model performance was examined using the Hosmer-Lemeshow test and calculated with c-statistic.

Results

Weekend visits and performing radiology examinations were risk factors linked to healthcare associated adverse events. Biological examinations and the opinion of a specialist were protective factors.

Discussion

Numerous studies have reported that a first consultation occurring on a weekend is a reconsultation risk factor for healthcare-associated adverse events, however, performing radiology examinations were subjected to confusion bias. Patients having radiology examinations due to trauma-related pathologies were more apt for a reconsultation.

Conclusion

Our study supports the need for better emergency departments access to biological examinations and specialist second medical opinions. An appropriate patient to doctor ratio in hospital emergency departments may be necessary at all times.
Effect of built environment on BMI of older adults in regions of different socio-economic statuses
Authors: Zang Peng , Chen Kaihan , Zhang Haifan , Qiu Hualong , Yu Yun , Huang Jianwen
Published: July 2023

Background

Numerous studies have ignored the influence of underdeveloped urban surroundings on the physical health of China’s ageing population. Lanzhou is a typical representative of a less developed city in China.

Methods

This study investigated the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and built environment amongst older adults in regions of different socio-economic statuses (SES) using data from medical examinations of older adults in Lanzhou, as well as calculating community built environment indicators for regions of different SES based on multiple linear regression models.

Results

Results showed that age and underlying disease were negatively associated with overall older adult BMI in the study buffer zone. Land use mix, number of parks and streetscape greenery were positively associated with older adult BMI. Street design and distance to bus stops were negatively connected in low SES regions, but population density and street design were negatively correlated in high SES areas.

Conclusion

These findings indicate that the built environment of SES regions has varying impacts on the BMI of older persons and that planners may establish strategies to lower the incidence of obesity amongst older adults in different SES locations.
Doping in Paralympic sport: perceptions, responsibility and anti-doping education experiences from the perspective of Paralympic athletes and parasport coaches
Authors: Blank Cornelia , Weber Kathrin , Boardley Ian D. , Abel Thomas , Schobersberger Wolfgang , Patterson Laurie B.
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Limited effort has been invested in understanding doping in Paralympic sport. The limited evidence that exists suggests that factors influencing doping in parasport are similar to Olympic sport. However, based on the design and nature of the previous studies, where methods have been mostly limited to qualitative data and prevalence numbers, further research is warranted to extend previous findings.

Methods

Informed by current evidence from Paralympic and Olympic sport, we aimed to investigate (1) para-athletes' perceptions of Anti-Doping Rule Violations (ADRVs) and responsibility for them, (2) descriptive norms for doping in parasport (3) perceptions of anti-doping education and legitimacy of anti-doping authorities, and (4) coach engagement in doping prevention and levels of doping confrontation efficacy using a quantitative survey approach.

Results

In total, valid survey responses from 126 Paralympic athletes and 35 coaches from four countries (Germany, Austria, Switzerland, UK) were analysed for experience with anti-doping, descriptive norms, anti-doping education, perceived legitimacy, knowledge, and doping confrontation efficacy (coaches only). Across both athletes and coaches, the level of education was generally good and doping willingness was low. Classification cheating was considered a form of doping and seems to be an important issue for athletes and coaches, especially within the UK sample. For 33.3% of the athletes, doping control was their first experience with anti-doping. Coaches' engagement with doping prevention activities and their perceived efficacy to confront doping-related matters appears to be higher compared to Olympic coaches' samples.

Discussion

Sport organisations/NADOs in Paralympic sport could use synergies with those organisations in Olympic sport, adopting similar approaches to anti-doping education, also focusing on a balanced communication of doping prevalence numbers and testing figures. Efforts to ensure athletes are educated about anti-doping before they are tested should be upheld. It seems that in para sport, different compared to able-bodied coaches, anti-doping organizations do not have to convince the coaches about their roles (i.e., being responsible for anti-doping education) anymore but can directly build on these resources. Overall, it seems that there are few differences between parasport and able-bodied sports and thus responsible organisations could use the existing programmes in Olympic sport and only adapt special content (e.g., boosting) which is unique to Paralympic athletes.
Research on Self-Priming Piezoelectric Microjet and Its Ejection Performance Control
Authors: Shan Tiyuan , Wu Xiaosheng , Zhou Huajun , Lin Xindi , Yang Bin
Published: July 2023

The inkjet printing technology, based on piezoelectric microjet, realizes the high-efficiency processing of special-shaped structures, and has the advantages of high precision, high efficiency, and the ability to manufacture arbitrary complex parts. In this paper, a self-priming piezoelectric micro-jet device is proposed and its structure and microjet process are described. ANSYS two-phase two-way fluid-structure coupling simulation analysis is carried out, and the mechanism of the piezoelectric microjet is described in detail. The effects of voltage amplitude, input signal frequency, nozzle diameter, and oil viscosity on the ejection performance of the device are studied, and a set of effective control methods are summarized. Finally, the correctness of the piezoelectric microjet mechanism and the feasibility of the proposed self-priming piezoelectric micro-jet device are verified by experiments, and its ejection performance is tested. The experimental results are consistent with the ANSYS simulation results, which verifies the correctness of the experiment.
A Review of Recent Developments in Permanent Magnet Eddy Current Couplers Technology
Authors: Wang Jiaxing , Wang Dazhi , Wang Sihan , Tong Tailai , Sun Lisong , Li Wenhui , Kong Deshan , Hua Zhong , Sun Guofeng
Published: July 2023

Permanent magnet eddy current couplers (PMECCs) have the characteristics of contactless torque transmission, removal of torque ripple, smooth dynamic process, and adjustable speed, and can be used as couplings, dampers, brakes, and speed governors. Their applications in industry, vehicles, and energy fields are gradually expanding. At the same time, the requirements for the torque density and dynamic performance of PMECCs are increasing. Therefore, a large amount of research work has focused on the fast and accurate modeling, design, and optimization of PMECCs. This paper provides a survey on the development of PMECCs technology. The main topics include the structure and classification of PMECCs, modeling methods, loss and heat transfer analysis modeling, and optimization design. In addition, this paper shows the future trends of PMECCs research. All the highlighted insights and suggestions of this review will hopefully lead to increasing efforts toward the model’s construction and the optimal design of PMECCs for future applications.
Systematic Analysis of the Factors That Impact upon the Mindset of Knowledge Sharing Behaviour (KSB) for Individuals within Academia
Authors: Abbas Khalid , Eltweri Ahmed , Nawaz Muhammad Kamran , Ali Zafar
Published: July 2023

The aim of this study is to provide an examination of the factors that have a bearing on KSB, based upon attitudes amongst academics in developing countries, using a particular focus upon academics within the University of Baghdad. With the research study, structural equation modelling was undertaken by using a questionnaire survey for examination of attitudes to microfoundations with regard to KSB amongst a total of 326 academics based at the University of Baghdad. With regard to KSB, it was found that three of the hypothesised factors (anticipation of extrinsic rewards, anticipation of reciprocal relationships and perception of reciprocal benefits) were significantly and positively related. No significant relationship, however, was found to exist between KSB and interpersonal interactions. Based upon the results, a refined, valid model succeeds in exhibiting good explanatory power for the prediction of the intentions for the KSB of academics. Furthermore, it was suggested by the results that academics who were less educated had a greater willingness for knowledge sharing than those who were more highly educated. Based upon the unprecedented data, the paper makes a contribution to growing KSB-theory-related research, particularly with respect to the planned model of behaviour, and puts forward empirical evidence in support of the relationship between attitude and the KSB of academics.
Dynamics of Maize Grain Weight and Quality during Field Dehydration and Delayed Harvesting
Authors: Zhao Rulang , Wang Yonghong , Yu Xiaofang , Liu Wanmao , Ma Daling , Li Hongyan , Ming Bo , Zhang Wenjie , Cai Qiming , Gao Julin , Li Shaokun
Published: July 2023

Dehydration of maize grains in the field can reduce costs associated with drying after harvest. A delayed harvest approach after physiological maturity, in which plants stand in the field to allow the stems to dry, has been widely adopted in maize production. However, it remains unclear how harvesting at different time points during the dehydration stage may affect grain yield and quality. In the present study, experiments were conducted in the Ningxia Irrigation Area of northwest China from 2019 to 2022, we continuously observed and used a linear-plateau model to analyze the changes in grain weight and quality traits (such as bulk density and levels of starch, protein, oil, fiber, and free fatty acids) during the field dehydration period of maize hybrids with differing maturity times. Harvesting at a grain moisture content of >31.0% was shown to affect grain weight, whereas harvesting at a moisture content of <25.9% did not affect grain weight or yield. The stable period for grain weight occurred during the physiological maturity stage for an early-maturing hybrid and 5–12 days before physiological maturity for the mid–late-maturing hybrids. When the field grain moisture content was <37%, harvesting did not affect the grain bulk density. Grain bulk density tended to stabilize one to two weeks earlier than grain weight and two to three weeks before the physiological maturity period. The protein, oil, fiber, and free fatty acid contents in maize kernels at 30 days after silking were not affected by the harvesting period, and the starch contents were unaffected in maize kernels harvested at any time later than 50 days after silking. Overall, maize grain should be harvested during field dehydration and delayed harvesting after physiological maturity with relatively low moisture content to get a better yield with superior quality.; delayed harvesting is therefore an important technical approach to improve the efficient production of high-quality maize.
Accumulation of Stinging Nettle Bioactive Compounds as a Response to Controlled Drought Stress
Authors: Dujmović Mia , Opačić Nevena , Radman Sanja , Fabek Uher Sanja , Voća Sandra , Šic Žlabur Jana
Published: July 2023

As the impact of global warming intensifies drought effects, plants need to adapt to drought and other climate change-induced stresses through various defense mechanisms. One of them is the increased synthesis of bioactive compounds (BCs), which helps plants overcome adverse environmental conditions. This effect can be used in sustainable controlled cultivation as a tool for the nutritional improvement of crops, so this study focused on growing stinging nettle (Urtica dioica L.) for human consumption in a controlled environment. Since nettle can be consumed as a green leafy vegetable due to its nutritional value, the aim of this study was to determine the content of BCs (ascorbic acid, phenolic compounds, and pigments) and antioxidant capacity of nettle leaves grown under different drought stress conditions in an ebb and flow hydroponic system. During the experiment, plants were treated with a nutrient solution adjusted for nettle cultivation for 1 hour and then exposed to three different drought intervals: 24, 48, and 96 h. During the 48 h drought interval, the plants accumulated the highest amounts of total phenolic content and total non-flavonoid content (400.21 and 237.33 mg GAE/100 g, respectively), and during the 96 h drought interval, the nettle accumulated the highest amount of ascorbic acid (96.80 mg/100 g fw). The highest antioxidant capacity was recorded during the 24 and 48 h treatments (2435.07 and 2444.83 µmol/TE, respectively) according to the ABTS and during the 48 h treatment (3773.49 µmol/TE) according to the FRAP assay. The obtained results show that different drought stress durations caused by the absence of nutrient solutions can have a positive effect on the accumulation of nettle BCs.
An Insight into the Global Problem of Gastrointestinal Helminth Infections amongst Livestock: Does Nanotechnology Provide an Alternative?
Authors: Hamid Laraibah , Alsayari Abdulrhman , Tak Hidayatullah , Mir Suhail Ahmad , Almoyad Mohammad Ali Abdullah , Wahab Shadma , Bader Ghulam Nabi
Published: July 2023

Helminth parasitic infections are a considerable constraint to the livestock industries worldwide. Nematode parasites cause the major proportion of harm to livestock. The infections caused are accountable for severe economic losses in cattle, goat and sheep farming industries. Morbidity and mortality in livestock due to parasitic diseases are increasing alarmingly. Also, their zoonotic influence on human health is considered significant. Anthelmintic drugs have been developed occasionally to curb this disease and prevent major losses. But the development of resistance against these drugs has put another constraint on this flourishing industry. Helminth parasites have developed resistance against three main classes of anthelmintics: benzimidazoles, macrocyclic lactones and nicotinic agonists. With the intensification of resistance, various screening and confirmatory tests have been developed for the speedy introduction of newer drugs in the livestock industry. At the same time, designing and launching novel anthelmintics is time-consuming and economically restrained. Phytochemicals attract much attention because of their pharmacotherapeutic potential, least toxic profile and low environmental hazards. A lot of work is going on plant-based anthelmintic drugs throughout the world. Plants possessing anthelmintic activity have been found efficacious against gastrointestinal parasites. Nevertheless, these herbal medicines have various drawbacks, which include poor efficacy and the absence of target selectivity. These problems are now being taken care of with the help of nanotechnology. Nanoparticles improve the drug’s effectiveness, enhance drug delivery, and target selectivity at specific sites. A comprehensive literature survey was carried out via electronic searches of Google Scholar, PubMed, MEDLINE, Science Direct, Scopus and Cochrane Library databases and based on inclusion and exclusion criteria; articles were selected for this review. The review aims at providing a comprehensive overview of plant-based nanoparticles as therapeutic alternatives over conventional synthetic anthelmintic drugs. It also encompasses the methods of detection of resistance and the ways to overcome this menace. The effectiveness of various organic and inorganic nanoparticles against helminthes is also discussed in this review.
Advancing Soil Organic Carbon and Total Nitrogen Modelling in Peatlands: The Impact of Environmental Variable Resolution and vis-NIR Spectroscopy Integration
Authors: Mendes Wanderson de Sousa , Sommer Michael
Published: July 2023

Visible and near-infrared (vis-NIR) spectroscopy has proven to be a straightforward method for sample preparation and scaling soil testing, while the increasing availability of high-resolution remote sensing (RS) data has further facilitated the understanding of spatial variability in soil organic carbon (SOC) and total nitrogen (TN) across landscapes. However, the impact of combining vis-NIR spectroscopy with high-resolution RS data for SOC and TN prediction remains an open question. This study evaluated the effects of incorporating a high-resolution LiDAR-derived digital elevation model (DEM) and a medium-resolution SRTM-derived DEM with vis-NIR spectroscopy for predicting SOC and TN in peatlands. A total of 57 soil cores, comprising 262 samples from various horizons (<2 m), were collected and analysed for SOC and TN content using traditional methods and ASD Fieldspec® 4. The 262 observations, along with elevation data from LiDAR and SRTM, were divided into 80% training and 20% testing datasets. By employing the Cubist modelling approach, the results demonstrated that incorporating high-resolution LiDAR data with vis-NIR spectra improved predictions of SOC (RMSE: 4.60%, RPIQ: 9.00) and TN (RMSE: 3.06 g kg−1, RPIQ: 7.05). In conclusion, the integration of LiDAR and soil spectroscopy holds significant potential for enhancing soil mapping and promoting sustainable soil management.
Effect of Root-Knot Nematode Disease on Bacterial Community Structure and Diversity in Peanut Fields
Authors: Wu Lijun , Ren Yan , Zhang Xiangsong , Chen Guanghui , Wang Chuantang , Wu Qi , Li Shuangling , Zhan Fudong , Sheng Li , Wei Wenliang , Yuan Mei
Published: July 2023

The root-knot nematode (RKN) disease is a highly destructive soilborne disease that significantly affects peanut yield in Northern China. The composition of the soil microbiome plays a crucial role in plant disease resistance, particularly for soilborne diseases like RKN. However, the relationship between the occurrence of RKN disease and the structure and diversity of bacterial communities in peanut fields remains unclear. To investigate bacterial diversity and the community structure of peanut fields with severe RKN disease, we applied 16S full-length amplicon sequencing based on the third high-throughput sequencing technology. The results indicated no significant differences in soil bacterial α-diversity between resistant and susceptible plants at the same site. However, the Simpson index of resistant plants was higher at the site of peanut-wheat-maize rotation (Ro) than that at the site of peanut continuous cropping (Mo), showing an increase of 21.92%. The dominant phyla identified in the peanut bulk soil included Proteobacteria, Acidobacteria, Actinobacteria, Planctomycetes, Chloroflexi, Firmicutes, and Bacteroidetes. Further analysis using LEfSe (Linear discriminant analysis effect size) revealed that Sulfuricellaceae at the family level was a biomarker in the bulk soil of susceptible peanut compared to resistant peanut. Additionally, Singulisphaera at the genus level was significantly more enriched in the bulk soil of resistant peanut than that of susceptible peanut. Soil properties were found to contribute to the abundance of bacterial operational taxonomic units (OTUs). Available phosphorus (AP), available nitrogen (AN), organic matter (OM), and pH made a positive contribution to the bacterial OTUs, while available potassium (AK) made a negative contribution. The metabolic pathway of novobiocin biosynthesis was only enriched in soil samples from resistant peanut plants. Eleven candidate beneficial bacteria and ten candidate harmful strains were identified in resistant and susceptible peanut, respectively. The identification of these beneficial bacteria provides a resource for potential biocontrol agents that can help improve peanut resistance to RKN disease. Overall, the study demonstrated that severe RKN disease could reduce the abundance and diversity of bacterial communities in peanut bulk soil. The identification of beneficial bacteria associated with resistant peanut offered the possibility for developing biocontrol strategies to enhance peanut resistance to RKN disease.
Population Dynamics and Feeding Preferences of Three Bacterial-Feeding Nematodes on Different Bacteria Species
Authors: Zhou Yiqun , Zheng Hao , Gao Dandan , Zhao Jie
Published: July 2023

Soil food webs are extremely complex as they contain diverse organisms. Feeding preference, also known as prey selection, is an important determinant of soil community compositions. However, the feeding preferences of nematodes are commonly ignored in ecology research. In this paper, the population dynamics and feeding preferences of three bacterial-feeding nematodes (i.e., Caenorhabditis elegans, Protorhabditis spp., and Acrobeloides spp.) for eight bacterial prey species were evaluated. Protorhabditis and Acrobeloides were isolated from a paddy soil in subtropical China. C. elegans, the most common model system for biological research, was used as a control in this study, and it was revealed that C. elegans could feed on all the eight bacteria strains. Protorhabditis could only survive when fed E. coli and Bacillus thuringiensis. Acrobeloides could only survive when fed E. coli and B. aryabhattai. During 10 days of culture, C. elegans populations reached the maximum in 5–7 days, and most C. elegans populations exceeded 10,000 individuals. The two Protorhabditis populations on E. coli and Bacillus thuringiensis included less than 800 individuals during 10 days of culture. Acrobeloides population on B. aryabhattai reached the maximum (7799 individuals) on day 8, while on E. coli was its population included less than 500 individuals. These results indicate that different nematode species indeed have distinct feeding preferences. In addition, the population dynamics of the two soil nematodes isolated from soil could not fully match with their inferred life-history strategies (i.e., cp values, and a 1-5 colonizer-p-ersister series that range from r-strategists to K-strategists). Our findings highlights the existing deficiencies in the understanding of the feeding behavior and the life-history strategies of soil nematodes.
Electrochemical Monitoring of Sulfadiazine via La@CeO Incorporated with Reduced Graphene Oxide
Authors: Disouza Francis Packiaraj Don , Sundaresan Ruspika , Chen Shen-Ming , Ramachandran Balaji , Chandrasekar Narendhar
Published: July 2023

In recent years, indiscriminate consumption and dumping of antibiotics have become destructive to human health and causes ecotoxicological pollution. Here, the irregular particle nanosized dendrite structure of lanthanum-doped cerium oxide (LCO) decorated with sheet-like reduced graphene oxide (RGO) composite was utilized to detect the sulfonamide-based drug sulfadiazine (SZ). LCO@RGO nanocomposite was prepared using the hydrothermal method, the synergistic effect between LCO and RGO facilitates electron transferability and conductivity which enhances the electrochemical properties toward the detection of SZ. The detection of SZ expressed a lower detection limit (0.005 µM) and linear range (0.01–265 µM) of the fabricated LCO@RGO/GCE electrode toward SZ, analyzed using the highly sensitive DPV technique. Also, DPV was utilized to determined shows good repeatability, reproducibility, and storage stability of fabricated LCO@RGO/GCE. Moreover, effective practicability was proven in human blood serum and river water samples with great recovery results. All the above probes the synthesized LCO@RGO’s thriving and outstanding electrocatalytic performance of this nanocomposite’s highly sensitive detection of SZ in real biological and environmental samples.
Biogenic Elements and Heavy Metals in Hermann’s Tortoises—Testudo hermanni: Effect on Serum Biochemistry and Oxidative Status Parameters
Authors: Kirchner Róbert , Kirchnerová Soňa , Tirpák Filip , Halo Marko , Slanina Tomáš , Tokárová Katarína , Kováčik Anton , Miškeje Michal , Komárňanská Veronika , Greń Agnieszka , Formicki Grzegorz , Massányi Peter
Published: July 2023

Background: Conservation of species diversity is the need of the hour for preserving life forms on Earth. Extinction of any part of the ecosystem has negative impacts on many processes and systems. The objective of this work was to analyze some biochemical and molecular indicators and their correlations to biogenic elements and heavy metals in Testudo hermanni (n = 16). Methods: Biochemical parameters were analyzed using the commercial kit DiaSys and biochemical analyzer Randox RX Monza. Sodium, potassium, and chlorides were measured using the EasyLite analyzer. Oxidative stress was evaluated using colorimetric and luminometric methods. Quantification of chemical elements in the blood was carried out using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICPS). Results: Biochemical values of analyzed samples from Hermann’s tortoises were almost the same as referential values described by multiple authors, with minor aberrations in the total protein parameter. Values of arsenic (As) and nickel (Ni) showed correlation with biochemical parameters and the parameters of oxidative stress. Cadmium (Cd) exhibited correlation with aspartate aminotransferase (AST). Conclusions: This study reports correlations among four heavy metals, and their levels were again correlated with biochemical and molecular parameters in Hermann’s tortoises.
Exploring the Role of Empathy as a Dual Mediator in the Relationship between Human–Pet Attachment and Quality of Life: A Survey Study among Adult Dog Owners
Authors: Sung Ji Yu , Han Jin Soo
Published: July 2023

This study investigates the impact of empathy on the relationship between human–dog attachment and human quality of life. A survey involving 263 dog owners was conducted to gather data on attachment to dogs, empathy, and human quality of life in Korea. The findings indicate significant correlations between attachment to dogs, human empathy, and quality of life. Specifically, both general attachment and concerns for animal rights/welfare demonstrate meaningful parallel double-mediation effects. However, cognitive empathy does not show a significant double-mediation effect on human quality of life. These findings emphasize the importance of attachment and empathy towards dogs in enhancing the quality of life of both humans and dogs. The study suggests a shift in perceiving dogs as independent individuals rather than mere substitutes for humans. Future research should focus on emotional factors, particularly affective empathy, to further enhance the quality of life for both humans and dogs through improved relationships.
Outdoor Finishing of Intact Male Portuguese Alentejano Pigs on a Sustainable High-Fiber Diet: Impacts on Blood, Growth, Carcass, Meat Quality and Boar Taint Compounds
Authors: Martins José Manuel , Varino Ricardo , Charneca Rui , Albuquerque André , Garrido Nicolás , Neves José , Freitas Amadeu , Costa Filipa , Marmelo Carla , Ramos Amélia , Martin Luísa
Published: July 2023

This trial evaluated the effect of sex on the blood, growth, carcass, meat quality, and boar taint compounds in male Alentejano (AL) pigs (n = 30). From ~40 to 130 kg LW, castrated (C) and intact pigs (I and IExp groups) were fed commercial diets ad libitum. Between ~130 and 160 kg (slaughter), C and I pigs continued on commercial diets, while IExp were fed an experimental diet containing locally produced pulses and by-products aimed at reducing boar taint. At ~160 kg, blood urea levels were higher in IExp than C pigs, triacylglycerols were lower in both intact groups, and cortisol was lower in IExp. IExp pigs exhibited faster growth, improved feed conversion ratio, carcass higher commercial yield and leaner meat than C pigs. The loin intramuscular fat in intact pigs was lower, less saturated and more polyunsaturated, while total collagen was higher. Fat androstenone content was higher in intact pigs and skatole content was similar across treatments, although they were below threshold values for consumer detection. Finally, although boar taint compounds were low in intact AL pigs raised outdoors, adding pulses and by-products to the experimental diet did not result in a reduction in fat skatole content compared to pigs fed the commercial diet.
Editorial: Sharks and Skates—Ecology, Distribution and Conservation
Authors: Marongiu Martina Francesca
Published: July 2023

The class Chondrichthyes (sharks, rays and chimeras) is one of the three lineages of fishes and the most evolutionary distinct radiation of vertebrates [...]
Dual-Purpose Cattle Raised in Tropical Conditions: What Are Their Shortcomings in Sound Productive and Reproductive Function?
Authors: Galina Carlos Salvador , Geffroy Mariana
Published: July 2023

Dual-purpose husbandry might well be the most commonly employed cattle management system in tropical regions worldwide. The advantages of producing both meat and milk, although in reduced quantities, gives an edge to the farmer in coping with the volatile economic conditions that prevail in the region. Herein, we discuss the different methods of cattle management under tropical conditions based on the financial and social structure of this system. An account of the sanitary and nutritional conditions available to the farmers and how these factors affect the profitability of the enterprise will also be given. Finally, we will discuss how these systems can take advantage of several biotechnological procedures, and how these tools (such as controlled natural mating, artificial insemination, and embryo transfer) affect reproductive outcomes. The present review will mainly concentrate on production systems located less than 1000 m above sea level, as the problems and shortcomings of cattle raised above this arbitrary landmark are quite different.
Application of Nanopore Sequencing for High Throughput Genotyping in Horses
Authors: Gurgul Artur , Jasielczuk Igor , Szmatoła Tomasz , Sawicki Sebastian , Semik-Gurgul Ewelina , Długosz Bogusława , Bugno-Poniewierska Monika
Published: July 2023

Nanopore sequencing is a third-generation biopolymer sequencing technique that relies on monitoring the changes in an electrical current that occur as nucleic acids are passed through a protein nanopore. Increasing quality of reads generated by nanopore sequencing systems encourages their application in genome-wide polymorphism detection and genotyping. In this study, we employed nanopore sequencing to identify genome-wide polymorphisms in the horse genome. To reduce the size and complexity of genome fragments for sequencing in a simple and cost-efficient manner, we amplified random DNA fragments using a modified DOP-PCR and sequenced the resulting products using the MinION system. After initial filtering, this generated 28,426 polymorphisms, which were validated at a 3% error rate. Upon further filtering for polymorphism and reproducibility, we identified 9495 SNPs that reflected the horse population structure. To conclude, the use of nanopore sequencing, in conjunction with a genome enrichment step, is a promising tool that can be practical in a variety of applications, including genotyping, population genomics, association studies, linkage mapping, and potentially genomic selection.
Expanding the Reach of Monoclonal Antibodies: A Review of Synthetic Nucleic Acid Delivery in Immunotherapy
Authors: Chung Christopher , Kudchodkar Sagar B. , Chung Curtis N. , Park Young K. , Xu Ziyang , Pardi Norbert , Abdel-Mohsen Mohamed , Muthumani Kar
Published: July 2023

Harnessing the immune system to combat disease has revolutionized medical treatment. Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), in particular, have emerged as important immunotherapeutic agents with clinical relevance in treating a wide range of diseases, including allergies, autoimmune diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, cancer, and infectious diseases. These mAbs are developed from naturally occurring antibodies and target specific epitopes of single molecules, minimizing off-target effects. Antibodies can also be designed to target particular pathogens or modulate immune function by activating or suppressing certain pathways. Despite their benefit for patients, the production and administration of monoclonal antibody therapeutics are laborious, costly, and time-consuming. Administration often requires inpatient stays and repeated dosing to maintain therapeutic levels, limiting their use in underserved populations and developing countries. Researchers are developing alternate methods to deliver monoclonal antibodies, including synthetic nucleic acid-based delivery, to overcome these limitations. These methods allow for in vivo production of monoclonal antibodies, which would significantly reduce costs and simplify administration logistics. This review explores new methods for monoclonal antibody delivery, including synthetic nucleic acids, and their potential to increase the accessibility and utility of life-saving treatments for several diseases.
Total Knee Arthroplasty in Unrecognized Septic Arthritis—A Descriptive Case Series Study
Authors: Sax Florian Hubert , Fink Bernd
Published: July 2023

Background: Synovitis, like that associated with chronic bacterial arthritis, is a very rare finding during the implantation of knee endoprostheses. In such cases, we fix the knee prostheses with cement containing two antibiotics and carry out a course of systemic antibiotic administration. The aim was to analyze these cases for incidence, detection of bacteria, risk factors, and outcome. Methods: Out of 7534 knee replacements between January 2013 and December 2020, 25 cases were suspected during the surgical procedure to have suffered from bacterial arthritis and were treated accordingly. Total synovectomy was carried out, whereby five intraoperative synovial samples were examined bacteriologically, and the complete synovitis was analyzed histologically. The mean follow-up was 65.3 ± 27.1 (24–85) months. Results: In nine cases (0.12%), the diagnosis of bacterial arthritis was made histologically and by clinical chemistry (elevated CRP), and in two of these cases, pathogen verification was performed. Eight of these nine patients had previously had injections or surgery associated with the corresponding knee joint or had an underlying immunomodulatory disease. None of the patients developed a periprosthetic infection at a later stage. Conclusion: With an incidence of 0.12%, it is rare to unexpectedly detect bacterial synovitis during surgery. Total synovectomy, use of bone cement with two antibiotics, and immediate systemic antibiotic therapy seem to keep the risk of periprosthetic infection low.