bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Authoritarianism, psychopathy, and resistance to wearing masks during the COVID-19 pandemic: A partial replication and extension of key findings
Authors: Prichard Eric Charles , Turner K. Amber
Published: January 2023

Controversial recent research suggests Americans with more authoritarian tendencies showed less concern about COVID-19 and self-report less mask wearing. The present study set out to replicate this result with a larger sample. The study also sought to extend the original research by investigating how the Dark Triad traits of narcissism, psychopathy, and Machiavellianism are related 1 COVID-19 attitudes and behaviors. Nine-hundred ninety-six United States high school graduates were asked 8 questions about their level of concern about the effects of the virus on health and finances, how frequently they wore masks, which authority figures they trusted, and whether China was responsible for the virus. Correlational and regression analyzes showed that authoritarianism, Machiavellianism, narcissism, and psychopathy were all negatively related to self-reported mask wearing. An explanation is offered for an apparent contradiction between the presented results and studies that showed authoritarian support for lockdowns early during the outbreak.
Musical participation and positive youth development in middle school
Authors: Ilari Beatriz , Cho Eun
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Music is central in the lives of adolescents. While listening is usually the most common form of engagement, many adolescents also learn music formally by participating in school-based and extracurricular programs. This study examined positive youth development (PYD), school connectedness (SC), and hopeful future expectations (HFE) in middle school students (N = 120) with four levels of musical participation in school-based and extracurricular music programs. Levels of participation were based on students’ engagement in different music programs, including the Virtual Middle School Music Enrichment (VMSME), a tuition-free, extracurricular program that focuses on popular music education and virtual learning. We also investigated student listening preferences, musical tuition, and daily instrumental practicing.

Method

Study participants completed an anonymous, online survey that contained five self-report measures including the very-brief form of the PYD questionnaire, a scale of school connectedness, and a scale of HFE.

Results

Findings revealed significant differences in PYD scores by grade and gender, and associations between levels of musical participation and competence, a PYD component. Liking music and participation in extracurricular activities predicted scores on SC, and starting formal music education before age 8 predicted scores in HFE. We also found VMSME students to stem from neighborhoods with lower HDI than students in the other study groups, which points to issues of access to formal music education.

Discussion

Findings are discussed in light of earlier research on PYD, extracurricular activities in adolescence, the ubiquity and functions of music in adolescence, and deficit thinking in education.
Knowledge mapping of the research on lexical inferencing: A bibliometric analysis
Authors: Yang Hui , Fan Lin , Yin Hongshan
Published: January 2023

Lexical inferencing functions as one of the most important and effective skills used in language comprehension pertaining to psychological, cognitive and neurological aspects. Given its complex nature and crucial role in language comprehension, lexical inferencing has received considerable attention. The present study visualized the knowledge domain of the research on lexical inferencing based on a total of 472 articles collected from Web of Science (WoS) Core Collection of Thomson Reuters from 2001 to 2021. The bibliographic data were analyzed through co-cited articles, co-citation clusters of references, and co-occurring keywords to identify holistic intellectual landscape of lexical inferencing with special focus on its intellectual structure and base, and hot research topics. The main intellectual base includes probability of activating lexical inferencing in working memory and encoding in long-term memory, the role of lexical inferencing in reading comprehension, in connected speech, in children’s derivation under pragmatic context, and in psychological and neurocognitive processes underlying language processing mechanism. Hot topics are comprised the impacts of lexical inferencing on language acquisition and comprehension (written and spoken language comprehension), the factors (context variables, vocabulary knowledge, and morphological awareness) affecting the presence and efficacy of lexical inferencing, and the time course of lexical inferencing during reading. Critically, the results of this study demonstrated that the contribution of lexical inferencing to language comprehension was strongly correlated with learner-related and discourse-related variables. The study shed valuable light on the understanding of the intellectual background and the dynamic patterns of lexical inferencing over the past two decades, thereby future work in lexical inferencing is suggested as well.
Changes of adrenocorticotropic hormone rhythm and cortisol circadian rhythm in patients with depression complicated with anxiety and their effects on the psychological state of patients
Authors: Xie Zheng , Deng Yajie , Xie Chunyu , Yao Yuanlong
Published: January 2023

Objective: This work was to explore the rhythm of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and cortisol in patients with depression and anxiety and their effects on mental state. In this work, with depression complicated with anxiety patients as the A-MDD group (n= 21), and depression without anxiety symptoms as the NA-MDD group (n= 21). Firstly, data features were extracted according to the electroencephalo-graph (EEG) data of different patients, and a DR model was constructed for diagnosis. The Hamilton Depression Scale 24 (HAMD-24) was employed to evaluate the severity, and the ACTH and cortisol levels were detected and compared for patients in the A-MDD group and NA-MDD group. In addition, the psychological status of the patients was assessed using the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS). As a result, the AI-based DR model showed a high recognition accuracy for depression. The HAMD-24 score in the A-MDD group (31.81 ± 5.39 points) was statistically higher than the score in the NA-MDD group (25.25 ± 5.02 points) (P< 0.05). No visible difference was found in ACTH levels of patients in different groups (P> 0.05). The incidence of cortisol rhythm disorder (CRD) in the A-MDD group was much higher (P< 0.05). The differences in TAS scores between the two groups were significantly statistically significant (P< 0.01). In conclusion, the AI-based DR Model achieves a more accurate identification of depression; depression with or without anxiety has different effects on the mental state of patients. CRD may be one of the biological markers of depression combined with anxiety.
Short-term outcomes of physical activity counseling in in-patients with Major Depressive Disorder: Results from the PACINPAT randomized controlled trial
Authors: Cody Robyn , Beck Johannes , Brand Serge , Donath Lars , Faude Oliver , Hatzinger Martin , Imboden Christian , Kreppke Jan-Niklas , Lang Undine E. , Ludyga Sebastian , Mans Sarah , Mikoteit Thorsten , Oswald Anja , Schweinfurth Nina , Zahner Lukas , Gerber Markus
Published: January 2023

Introduction

A physical activity counseling intervention based on a motivation-volition model was developed and delivered to in-patients with Major Depressive Disorders with the aim of increasing lifestyle physical activity. The aim of this study is to evaluate the short-term outcomes of this intervention.

Methods

A multi-center randomized controlled trial was conducted in four Swiss psychiatric clinics. Adults who were initially insufficiently physically active and were diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder according to ICD-10 were recruited. The sample consisted of 113 participants in the intervention group (Mage = 42 years, 56% women) and 107 in the control group (Mage = 40 years, 49% women). Motivation and volition determinants of physical activity were assessed with questionnaires. Implicit attitudes were assessed with an Implicit Association Test. Physical activity was self-reported and measured with hip-worn accelerometers over 7 consecutive days starting on the day following the data collection.

Results

According to accelerometer measures, step count decreased on average 1,323 steps less per day (95% CI = −2,215 to −431, p < 0.01) over time in the intervention group compared to the control group. A trend was recognized indicating that moderate-to-vigorous physical activity decreased on average 8.37 min less per day (95% CI = −16.98 to 0.23, p < 0.06) over time in the intervention group compared to the control group. The initial phase of the intervention does not seem to have affected motivational and volitional determinants of and implicit attitudes toward physical activity.

Conclusion

Physical activity counseling may be considered an important factor in the transition from in-patient treatment. Methods to optimize the intervention during this period could be further explored to fulfill the potential of this opportunity.

Clinical trial registration

https://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN10469580, identifier ISRCTN10469580.
Virtual reality-based monitoring test for MCI: A multicenter feasibility study
Authors: Jang Sooah , Choi Sun-Woo , Son Sang Joon , Oh Jooyoung , Ha Junghee , Kim Woo Jung , Roh Hyun Woong , Kim Keun You , Lee San , Jung Eunjin , Cha Woojin , Chae Heonjoo , Kang Suzi , Kwon Ji Hye , Kim In-Young , Lee Ju-Yeal , Shin Hyun Kyung , Ryu Jin Sun , Ahn Ryunsup , Hong Chang Hyung , Seok Jeong-Ho
Published: January 2023

Objectives

As the significance of the early diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) has emerged, it is necessary to develop corresponding screening tools with high ecological validity and feasible biomarkers. Virtual reality (VR)-based cognitive assessment program, which is close to the daily life of the older adults, can be suitable screening tools for MCI with ecological validity and accessibility. Meanwhile, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) has been observed at a low concentration in the older adults with dementia or cognitive decline, indicating its potential as a biomarker of MCI. This study aimed to determine the efficacy and usability of a VR cognitive assessment program and salivary DHEA for screening MCI.

Methods

The VR cognitive assessment program and the traditional Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MOCA) test were performed on 12 patients with MCI and 108 healthy older adults. The VR program operates in a situation of caring for a grandchild, and evaluates the memory, attention, visuospatial, and executive functions. An analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), a partial correlation analysis, and receiving operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis were conducted for statistical analysis.

Results

According to the ANCOVA, no significant difference in MOCA scores was found between the normal and MCI groups (F = 2.36, p = 0.127). However, the VR total score of the MCI group was significantly lower than that of the normal group (F = 8.674, p = 0.004). There was a significant correlation between the MOCA and VR scores in the total and matched subdomain scores. The ROC curve analysis also showed a larger area under the curve (AUC) for the VR test (0.765) than for the MOCA test (0.598), and the sensitivity and specificity of the VR program were 0.833 and 0.722, respectively. Salivary DHEA was correlated with VR total (R2 = 0.082, p = 0.01) and attention scores (R2 = 0.086, p = 0.009).

Conclusion

The VR cognitive test was as effective as the traditional MOCA test in the MCI classification and safe enough for older adults to perform, indicating its potential as a diagnostic tool. It has also been shown that salivary DHEA can be used as a biomarker for MCI.
The association between current smoking and binge drinking among adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis of cross-sectional studies
Authors: Molaeipour Leila , Ghalandari Maryam , Kangavari Hajar Nazari , Alizadeh Zeinab , Jafari Elahe , Gholami Fatemeh , Ghahremanzadeh Neda , Safari Shiva , Mohseni Vahideh , Shahsavan Masoumeh , Motevalian Seyed Abbas
Published: January 2023

Background

The substantial increasing trend of binge drinking is a global alarm. Our aim was to undertake a systematic review and meta-analysis of cross-sectional studies to explore the association of current smoking with binge drinking among adults.

Methods

We systematically searched Web of Knowledge; PubMed; Scopus; Embase and Ovid (MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycARTICLES, PsycINFO, PsycEXTRA, and PsycTests) (from inception to 27 May 2020) databases to identify cross-sectional studies of the association between current smoking and binge drinking. Study screening, data extraction, and methodological quality assessment were all carried out by two independent authors. Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) was pooled with 95% confidence intervals (CI) using random effects model in the meta-analysis, followed by the investigation of the heterogeneity via Q-test and I2 statistic. We assessed publication bias using a funnel plot, the Egger’s, and Begg’s tests.

Results

We identified 3,171 studies and included nine cross-sectional studies with 64,516 participants. A significant association was found between current smoking and binge drinking among both genders (AOR = 2.97; 95% CI = 1.98 to 4.45; I2 = 90.5%). Subgroup analysis showed that this association among women, men, Caucasians, and Asians/Africans were (AOR = 3.68; 95% CI = 1.03 to 13.18; I2 = 98.9%), (AOR = 2.53; 95% CI = 1.87 to 3.42; I2 = 73.1%), (AOR = 1.36; 95% CI: 1.01–1.83, I2 = 47.4%), and (AOR = 3.93; 95% CI: 2.99–5.17, I2 = 61.3%), respectively. There was no evidence of publication bias.

Conclusion

Current smoking is associated with binge drinking and can be used for identifying and screening binge drinkers. Moreover, this association is stronger among men, and Asians/Africans. This meta-analysis estimation was limited to English-language studies, and the full text of about 3.5% of reports for retrieval was not found, then generalization of the results should be done with caution.
Travel scenario workshops for geographical accessibility modeling of health services: A transdisciplinary evaluation study
Authors: Molenaar Lotte , Hierink Fleur , Brun Michel , Monet Jean-Pierre , Ray Nicolas
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Limited geographical access to quality Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care (EmONC) is a major driver of high maternal mortality. Geographic access to EmONC facilities is identified by the global community as a critical issue for reducing maternal mortality and is proposed as a global indicator by the Ending Preventable Maternal Mortality (EPMM) initiative. Geographic accessibility models can provide insight into the population that lacks adequate access and on the optimal distribution of facilities and resources. Travel scenarios (i.e., modes and speed of transport) used to compute geographical access to healthcare are a key input to these models and should approximate reality as much as possible. This study explores strategies to optimize and harmonize knowledge elicitation practices for developing travel scenarios.

Methods

Knowledge elicitation practices for travel scenario workshops (TSW) were studied in 14 African and South-Asian countries where the United Nations Population Fund supported ministries of health and governments in strengthening networks of EmONC facilities. This was done through a mixed methods evaluation study following a transdisciplinary approach, applying the four phases of the Interactive Learning and Action methodology: exploration, in-depth, integration, and prioritization and action planning. Data was collected in November 2020–June 2021 and involved scoping activities, stakeholder identification, semi-structured interviews (N = 9), an evaluation survey (N = 31), and two co-creating focus group discussions (N = 8).

Results

Estimating realistic travel speeds and limited time for the workshop were considered as the largest barriers. The identified opportunities were inclusively prioritized, whereby preparation; a favorable composition of attendees; validation practices; and evaluation were anticipated to be the most promising improvement strategies, explaining their central place on the co-developed initial standard operating procedure (SOP) for future TSWs. Mostly extensive preparation—both on the side of the organization and the attendees—was anticipated to address nearly all of the identified TSW challenges.

Conclusion

This study showed that the different identified stakeholders had contradicting, complementing and overlapping ideas about strategies to optimize and harmonize TSWs. Yet, an initial SOP was inclusively developed, emphasizing practices for before, during and after each TSW. This SOP is not only relevant in the context of the UNFPA EmONC development approach, but also for monitoring the newly launched EPMM indicator and even in the broader field of geographic accessibility modeling.
Relationship between self-care compliance, trust, and satisfaction among hypertensive patients in China
Authors: Zhou Chi , Chen Jingchun , Tan Fang , Lai Sihong , Li Xu , Pu Ke , Wu Jiahui , Dong Yin , Zhao Falin
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Hypertension is a growing public health concern worldwide. It is a leading risk factor for all-cause mortality and may lead to complications such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, and kidney failure. Poor compliance of hypertensive patients is one of the major barriers to controlling high blood pressure. Compliance is not ideal among Chinese patients, and increasing patient self-care compliance with hypertension is necessary.

Methods

This article analyzes the status of self-care compliance, trust, and satisfaction among Chinese hypertensive patients using cross-sectional data from Zhejiang Province. We use a multi-group structural equation model (MGSEM) to compare the interrelationships across genders.

Results

The study's findings show that the average trust, satisfaction, and compliance scores are 3.92 ± 0.55, 3.98 ± 0.61, and 3.33 ± 0.41, respectively. Female patients exhibit higher average total scores for trust and compliance than male patients. The SEM results indicate that trust has a direct positive association with compliance [β = 0.242, 95% CI: (0.068, 0.402)] and satisfaction [β = 0.260, 95% CI: (0.145, 0.367)], while their satisfaction is not directly associated with compliance. The results of MGSEM show that trust has an indirect effect on compliance in the male group through satisfaction [β = 0.051, P < 0.05, 95% CI: (0.012, 0.116)]. In the female group, trust has a direct effect on satisfaction [β = 0.235, P < 0.05, 95% CI: (0.041, 0.406)] and compliance [β = 0.319, P < 0.01, 95% CI: (0.086, 0.574)].

Discussion

This study reveals the mechanisms of self-care compliance, trust, and satisfaction among Chinese hypertensive patients. Its findings may serve as a reference for guiding primary healthcare providers to improve hypertension patients' compliance and implement gender-targeted health interventions.
Artificial intelligence breast ultrasound and handheld ultrasound in the BI-RADS categorization of breast lesions: A pilot head to head comparison study in screening program
Authors: Huang Xiaoxi , Qiu Youhui , Bao Fangfang , Wang Juanhua , Lin Caifeng , Lin Yan , Wu Jianhang , Yang Haomin
Published: January 2023

Background

Artificial intelligence breast ultrasound diagnostic system (AIBUS) has been introduced as an alternative approach for handheld ultrasound (HHUS), while their results in BI-RADS categorization has not been compared.

Methods

This pilot study was based on a screening program conducted from May 2020 to October 2020 in southeast China. All the participants who received both HHUS and AIBUS were included in the study (N = 344). The ultrasound videos after AIBUS scanning were independently watched by a senior radiologist and a junior radiologist. Agreement rate and weighted Kappa value were used to compare their results in BI-RADS categorization with HHUS.

Results

The detection rate of breast nodules by HHUS was 14.83%, while the detection rates were 34.01% for AIBUS videos watched by a senior radiologist and 35.76% when watched by a junior radiologist. After AIBUS scanning, the weighted Kappa value for BI-RADS categorization between videos watched by senior radiologists and HHUS was 0.497 (p < 0.001) with an agreement rate of 78.8%, indicating its potential use in breast cancer screening. However, the Kappa value of AIBUS videos watched by junior radiologist was 0.39, when comparing to HHUS.

Conclusion

AIBUS breast scan can obtain relatively clear images and detect more breast nodules. The results of AIBUS scanning watched by senior radiologists are moderately consistent with HHUS and might be used in screening practice, especially in primary health care with limited numbers of radiologists.
Social perceptions of the value of green spaces: A view from the South
Authors: Cilliers Elizelle Juanee
Published: January 2023

Despite the expanding scientific understanding that green spaces are substantially beneficial to urban communities and their host cities, along with the evidence that some global cities are making progress to include nature as part of mainstream planning, this article argues that social perceptions also play a critical part in the successful planning and realization of urban green space provision in practice, especially in the Global South. This research thus reflected on the pedagogical effect on the social perception of the presence of green spaces in an urban area. To understand the impact of social perceptions on the valuation of green spaces, this article investigated the views of a convenience sample of professionals working in the Built Environment in South Africa and employed frequency distribution, two-way frequencies, and statistical measures to draw conclusions pertaining to the perception of green space value. The research illustrated that social perceptions inform how urban risks are perceived and that these perceptions of green space are often limited due to a lack of knowledge and awareness. The research exemplified that the actual community benefit provided by green spaces should be better articulated to gain traction in practice and that the appreciation and use of these urban green spaces should also be understood from a context-based and personal valuation perspective, to position these spaces as the critical resource and public good. This research concluded that social perceptions should be comprehensively understood, especially in the quest of realizing green(er) spaces and cities in the Global South.
Remote mapping of leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula, L.) in Northwestern Colorado
Authors: Mattilio Chloe M. , Tekiela Daniel R. , Norton Urszula
Published: January 2023

Leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula L.) has been introduced to the Yampa River in Northwestern Colorado for over 40 years and flood and runoff events transport leafy spurge propagules onto adjacent landscapes. The spread of leafy spurge beyond the river channels has yet to be mapped and recorded, and this research was conducted to map leafy spurge occurrence in the Yampa River Valley. Significant stakeholder mapping efforts took place in the summer of 2019–2021, leading to excellent spatial data on leafy spurge presence and absence along the main channel. In summer 2019, multispectral SPOT seven satellite imagery, stakeholder ground mapping efforts, and bright yellow-green leafy spurge bracts were used to interpret imagery, identify dense, unobscured patches of leafy spurge, and digitize them. Spectral signatures from training samples for leafy spurge and other land cover classes (generalized as “not leafy spurge”) were then used to train a Random Forest machine learning classification. In the summer of 2021, generated classification maps were compared to multispectral satellite imagery and stakeholder ground mapped leafy spurge presence. Mismatches were identified, and 271 validation locations were identified, navigated to, and evaluated for leafy spurge presence. Leafy spurge training samples were classified with 96% accuracy. Correctly classified leafy spurge locations had higher leafy spurge coverage and lower overstory canopy than missed leafy spurge locations. Leafy spurge growing beneath shrub canopy or growing as individual plants along the riverbanks were more likely to be missed. A frequency analysis for other plant species found at validation locations determined that smooth brome (Bromus inermis Leyss.), dandelion (Taraxacum officinale L.), and willow (Salix sp.) were most frequently misclassified as leafy spurge. In conclusion, multispectral satellite imagery was useful at remote detection of leafy spurge in open areas with dense leafy spurge coverage, but more work must be done for identification of sparse and diffuse leafy spurge infestations.
Transnational migrants' philanthropy: Its forms, operations, and implications from the perspectives of Ghanaian residents in Europe
Authors: DeSouza Mercy , Osei Onallia Esther , Idemudia Erhabor Sunday
Published: January 2023

Introduction

With the emergence of transnational migration studies in the 1990's, migration studies became involved in showing how migrants maintain transnational connections through money and non-monetary philanthropic contributions in their origin countries. However, there is little evidence about the interconnections between different forms of migrants' philanthropy and how they are developed and sustained over time across international borders.

Methods

This work investigates individual and groups transnational philanthropy and shows how migrants become involved in these forms of philanthropy, highlighting some changes therein over time. We relied on fifty semistructured interviews and six focus group discussions conducted with Ghanaians in the Netherlands, Italy and Germany.

Results and discussion

Our thematic analyses confirm that transnational migrant philanthropy is about fulfilling certain “moral obligations,” to derive a sense of belonging “here” (destinations) and “there” (origins). In performing the self, religious or culturally imposed sense of responsibility for human welfare and institutional development in the home country, Ghana, involved migrants overcome some challenges. For transnational migrant philanthropy to sustain itself, studied migrants think origin country governments must take necessary steps to remove structural obstacles like tedious procedures for clearing philanthropic goods at the ports and harbors. Involved migrants also suggested a need for a more organized platform to collect relevant information on potential beneficiary needs for their preparations to “give back” to their homeland.
Acknowledgment to the Reviewers of Algorithms in 2022
Authors:   Algorithms Editorial Office
Published: January 2023

High-quality academic publishing is built on rigorous peer review [...]
Effect of Applying Business Intelligence on Export Development and Brand Internationalization in Large Industrial Firms
Authors: Golestanizadeh Mahboobeh , Sarvari Hadi , Cristofaro Matteo , Chan Daniel W. M.
Published: January 2023

Possessing an international brand in an exclusive field can play a critical role in developing exports. On the other hand, monitoring market conditions and predicting the changes caused by the physical separation and distance between the upstream and downstream markets and asymmetric information is challenging in export markets. Accordingly, it is necessary to manage this issue by adopting business intelligence tools. To this end, using a descriptive–correlation method, the present study investigated the effect of applying business intelligence on export development and brand internationalization in large industrial firms. To collect the data, three questionnaires were distributed among 161 employees at the headquarters of Isfahan’s Mobarakeh Steel Company. The validity and reliability of the research questionnaires were confirmed. Data analysis was performed with SmartPLS and SPSS software. The findings indicated the effect of applying business intelligence on export development and brand internationalization in large industrial firms. We also performed additional analyses to deepen the results of the verified hypotheses to identify the best business intelligence dimensions for the prediction of export development and brand internationalization. The conclusion that can be drawn from our findings is that business intelligence and its tools can provide companies with an optimal understanding of organizational processes, appropriate responses to the behavior of competitors, and the ability to identify the needs of global customers by developing the best value chain.
A Study on the Enablers and Challenges of Co-Creation for the Digital Common Household Unit Integrated Public Service in Malta
Authors: Attard Judie , Cortis Keith
Published: January 2023

Several public services in Malta operate under the stewardship of different governmental bodies, ministries, or departments. This results in considerable effort in the delivery of public services, especially ones that require the use of multiple registries, such as integrated public services (IPSs). Co-creation and co-production are increasingly being seen by public administrations as an approach toward mitigating issues stemming from such a siloed environment. Indeed, they are seen as a means to improve service provision through the delivery of citizen-centric public services that are more efficient and effective. This paper presents the Malta pilot as part of the inGOV project. The latter aims to develop and deploy a comprehensive IPS holistic framework and ICT mobile tools that will support IPS co-creation and governance. The Malta pilot focuses on modernising the Digital Common Household Unit public service. Improving considerably upon the previous ad hoc solution, the Digital Common Household Unit public service implements an iterative co-creation and co-production approach with the various stakeholders. This paper therefore presents the applied methodology in researching current challenges and enablers to the co-creation and co-production of a digital common household unit public service, with a specific focus on sustainability.
Evaluation of the Wind Field and Deposition Effect of a Novel Air-Assisted Strawberry Sprayer
Authors: Xu Shaoqing , Feng Yuru , Han Leng , Ran Xiangkai , Zhong Yuan , Jin Ye , Song Jianli
Published: January 2023

Strawberry is a widely cultivated cash crop in China. In order to control pests and diseases on strawberries, there must be sufficient deposits on the abaxial surfaces of the leaves. Air-assisted technology can effectively increase the deposition on the abaxial surfaces of the leaves; however, most air-assisted equipment is not suitable for application due to the pattern of strawberry planting. Therefore, a novel air-assisted strawberry sprayer was developed, the static and dynamic wind fields were measured using a 3D anemometer, and the effectiveness of the application at different spray angles and wind speeds was evaluated. In addition, a comparison of the deposition effect in the strawberry canopy between the air-assisted strawberry sprayer, knapsack sprayer, and spray gun was conducted. The results showed that in the static wind field test, a difference between the center and edge wind fields was obtained, which was correlated with the distance and the outlet wind speed. In the dynamic wind field test, the wind field was found to be rolling backward during the movement, and an inward vortex was obtained. In the field, the data showed that a spray angle of 30° and a wind speed of 16 m·s−1 had the best deposition on the abaxial surface, with a coverage of 36.5% and 38.3% in the upper canopy and 6.2% and 7.9% in the lower canopy, respectively. Moreover, the air-assisted strawberry sprayer was found to have a higher deposition efficiency on abaxial surfaces than the knapsack sprayer and spray gun at a lower spray volume, the values of which in the upper and lower canopies were 42.8% and 29.7%, respectively. In conclusion, the air-assisted strawberry sprayer has the potential for the crop protection of greenhouse strawberries, and more evaluations are needed to improve the sprayer in the future.
Identification and Characterization of Sources of Resistance to Peronospora variabilis in Quinoa
Authors: Calderón-González Álvaro , Matías Javier , Cruz Verónica , Molinero-Ruiz Leire , Fondevilla Sara
Published: January 2023

Downy mildew, caused by Peronospora variabilis, is the most important quinoa disease worldwide. However, little is known about the resistance mechanisms acting against this disease. The study goals were to identify quinoa accessions showing resistance to P. variabilis under Spanish field conditions and to characterize the resistance mechanism involved. Towards these objectives, a total amount of 229 accessions of Chenopodium quinoa and one accession of each of the species Chenopodiun berlandieri subs. nutillae, Chenopodium ugandae, and Chenopodium opulifolium were screened for resistance to P. variabilis under field conditions in Córdoba, Spain, during two seasons. The response to P. variabilis in the accessions showed a continuous distribution ranging from complete resistance to high susceptibility. Fifteen resistant and one susceptible accessions were selected for further histological studies. Histological results showed that resistance to downy mildew in quinoa acts mainly at the stage of colony establishment. In resistant accessions, no colonies were formed or success in colony establishment was significantly reduced compared with the susceptible control. Hypersensitive response was associated with colony abortion in a number of the resistant accessions. This work is the first proof of hypersensitive reaction occurrence in quinoa as a response to P. variabilis.
Design of an Intermittent Herbicide Spray System for Open-Field Cabbage and Plant Protection Effect Experiments
Authors: Zheng Shenyu , Zhao Xueguan , Zhang Xinwei , Fu Hao , Yi Kechuan , Zhai Changyuan
Published: January 2023

To address the problem of herbicide residues exceeding the safety standard due to continuous spraying of herbicides on open-field cabbage, we propose an intermittent weed spraying control method integrating cabbage position, cabbage canopy size, and spraying machine operation speed. It is based on an early-stage cabbage target identification method obtained in the early stage and the operation requirements in open-field cabbage. Built with a C37 controller, a stable pressure spray system and an intermittent weed spraying control system for open-field cabbage, an integrated system was designed. Experimental verification was carried out through measurement indexes such as spraying precision, herbicide saving rate, herbicide efficacy, and herbicide residue. Since the industry is faced with a status quo of a lack of relevant operational norms and national standards for the precise weed spraying operation mode, this paper provides a relatively perfect experiment and evaluation method for this mode. The experimental results on the accuracy of weed spraying at different speeds showed that the mean absolute error (MAE), root mean square error (RMSE), and average spray cabbage coverage rate (ASCCR) of intermittent weed spraying increased, but the average effective spray coverage rate (AESCR) decreased with increasing operation speed. When the working speed was 0.51 m/s, the MAE and RMSE of intermittent weed spraying were less than 2.87 cm and 3.40 cm, respectively, and the AESCR was 98.4%, which verified the feasibility of operating the intermittent weed spraying of cabbage. The results of a field experiment showed that the average weed-killing rate of intermittent weed spraying for open-field cabbage was 94.8%, and the herbicide-saving rate could reach 28.3% for a similar weeding effect to that of constant-rate application, which not only met the needs of intermittent weed spraying in open-field cabbage but also had great significance for improving the herbicide utilization rate. Compared with the constant-rate application method, the herbicide residue concentration detected using intermittent weed spraying for cabbage decreased by 66.6% on average, which has important research significance and application value for ensuring the normal growth of crops and the safety of agricultural products.
Effect of Reduced Tillage on Soil Enzyme Activity, Pests Pressure and Productivity of Organically Grown Spring Wheat Species
Authors: Szczepanek Małgorzata , Siwik-Ziomek Anetta , Lemańczyk Grzegorz , Lamparski Robert , Graczyk Radomir
Published: January 2023

The possibility of using reduced tillage in organic farming is poorly recognized. The study aimed to assess the impact of the tillage method (shallow tillage and plowing) on soil biochemical activity, pest pressure, and grain yield of Triticum sphaerococcum, T. persicum, and T. aestivum ssp. vulgare, grown in organic farming systems. For this purpose, field experiments were conducted at three certified organic farms located in different regions of Poland. Enzyme activity was influenced to a greater extent by local soil and weather conditions compared to wheat species and the tillage method. Insect pests (Oulema spp.) slightly damaged the leaves of wheat, and the reduced tillage did not increase the damage. Under site conditions favorable for the development of diseases significantly fewer disease symptoms were observed in shallow tillage compared to plowing (powdery mildew by 9.6–46.1%; stripe rust by 15.5–89%; Septoria head blotch by 0–84.4%; Fusarium head blotch by 0–47.4%, Fusarium foot rot by 0–100%). T. aestivum was characterized by the highest yield and the yield stability in various locations and tillage methods. Ancient wheat species (T. sphaerococcum and T. persicum) had a higher yield in shallow tillage compared to plowing tillage (by 64% and 30%, respectively) only under effective weed control.
Presence of Anaplasma spp. and Their Associated Antibodies in the Swedish Goat Population
Authors: Lysholm Sara , Ådén Frida , Aspán Anna , Högberg Ann , Wensman Jonas Johansson , Omazic Anna
Published: January 2023

Anaplasmosis is a tick-borne disease that has a severe impact on livestock production and welfare. The aim of this pilot study was to investigate the presence of Anaplasma spp. and associated antibodies in a subset of the Swedish goat population. In 2020, six goat herds located in different parts of Sweden were visited and whole blood and serum samples were collected. The whole blood samples (n = 40) were analysed for the presence of Anaplasma phagocytophilum, A. ovis and A. capra using quantitative and conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The serum samples (n = 59) were analysed for the presence of antibodies to Anaplasma spp. using a commercial competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and the same analysis was carried out on additional serum samples previously collected in 2018, 2019 and 2020 (n = 166). One goat (2.5%) tested positive for the presence of A. phagocytophilum genetic material, while the seropositivity rate ranged from 20 to 71%, depending on the surveyed year and area. These results indicate widespread exposure to Anaplasma spp. in the Swedish goat population. To inform future risk assessments and control efforts, further research is warranted to determine the prevalence of anaplasmosis and its impact on goat farming in Sweden.
Conservation of Major Satellite DNAs in Snake Heterochromatin
Authors: Lisachov Artem , Rumyantsev Alexander , Prokopov Dmitry , Ferguson-Smith Malcolm , Trifonov Vladimir
Published: January 2023

Repetitive DNA sequences constitute a sizeable portion of animal genomes, and tandemly organized satellite DNAs are a major part of them. They are usually located in constitutive heterochromatin clusters in or near the centromeres or telomeres, and less frequently in the interstitial parts of chromosome arms. They are also frequently accumulated in sex chromosomes. The function of these clusters is to sustain the architecture of the chromosomes and the nucleus, and to regulate chromosome behavior during mitosis and meiosis. The study of satellite DNA diversity is important for understanding sex chromosome evolution, interspecific hybridization, and speciation. In this work, we identified four satellite DNA families in the genomes of two snakes from different families: Daboia russelii (Viperidae) and Pantherophis guttatus (Colubridae) and determine their chromosomal localization. We found that one family is localized in the centromeres of both species, whereas the others form clusters in certain chromosomes or subsets of chromosomes. BLAST with snake genome assemblies showed the conservation of such clusters, as well as a subtle presence of the satellites in the interspersed manner outside the clusters. Overall, our results show high conservation of satellite DNA in snakes and confirm the “library” model of satellite DNA evolution.
Effects of Two Different Straw Pellets on Yak Growth Performance and Ruminal Microbiota during Cold Season
Authors: Wang Xiangyan , Shi Bingang , Zuo Zhi , Qi Youpeng , Zhao Shijie , Zhang Xueping , Lan Lijuan , Shi Yu , Liu Xiu , Li Shaobin , Wang Jiqing , Hu Jiang
Published: January 2023

The Tianzhu white yaks (Bos grunniens) live on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau. During winter, a lack of resources and low nutritional levels seriously affect their growth performance. In this study, we aimed to explore the effect of supplementation straw pellets on the growth performance and ruminal microbiota of yaks. Overall, at 6 (6M, n = 24), 18 (18M, n = 26), 30 (30M, n = 20), 42 (42M, n = 24), and 54 (54M, n = 22) month old Tianzhu white yaks were selected (total n = 116) and divided into the mixed straw + grazing (MSG), corn straw + grazing (CSG), and the grazing control (G) groups according to age and gender. Their growth performance was measured as per different dietary treatments. The rumen microbial community structure and levels of VFAs were analyzed from the 6M, 30M, and 54M male yaks from each group. The supplementary diets led to an increase in the ADG, which was the highest in the MSG group. The MSG group exhibited the highest level of acetate and total VFAs (TVFAs) among the three groups (p < 0.05). In addition, the 16S rRNA sequencing results proved that the microbial composition was dominated by the members of Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes. Christensenellaceae R-7 group was significantly abundant in the CSG and MSG groups compared to the G group (p < 0.05). Principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) revealed that the bacterial community structure of rumen in the MSG and CSG groups was considerably different from that in the G group; 6M samples exhibited different rumen microbial diversity compared with the other samples. Correlation analysis revealed that Christensenellaceae_R-7_group was positively correlated with the levels of acetate, TVFAs, and ADG. These results demonstrated that mixed straw pellets improved the growth performance of yaks, increased the abundance of Christensenellaceae R-7_group involved in cellulose degradation in the rumen, and produced large amounts of VFAs, which were absorbed by yaks, thus increasing their ADG. This study provides new insights into the effects of straw pellet supplementation on the changes in the rumen microbiota and growth performance of yaks.
Fatty Acid Profiles in the Gonads of Red King Crab (Paralithodes camtschaticus) from the Barents Sea
Authors: Dvoretsky Alexander G. , Bichkaeva Fatima A. , Baranova Nina F. , Dvoretsky Vladimir G.
Published: January 2023

Red king crab (Paralithodes camtschaticus) is a large shelf species native to the Pacific Ocean. Due to its high commercial value, this species was introduced into the Barents Sea, where it has formed a new population that now supports a stable commercial fishery. Information on fatty acid profiles in different tissues of the Barents Sea P. camtschaticus is scarce. For this reason, the gonads of red king crabs collected at a coastal site in the Barents Sea during the summer were analyzed for fatty acid composition by gas-liquid chromatography. The proportions of total saturated fatty acids, monounsaturated fatty acids, and polyunsaturated fatty acids in the ovaries of P. camtschaticus were 25.9 ± 2.0%, 22.5 ± 2.3%, and 51.6 ± 2.5%, respectively; in the testes, these levels accounted for 35.1 ± 5.7%, 19.1 ± 2.0%, and 45.8 ± 4.5%, respectively. Fatty acid profiles were similar in larger and smaller red king crabs and crabs with old and new shells. Concentrations of fatty acids were higher in ovaries compared to testes, reflecting higher reproductive efforts in female red king crabs. High levels of docosahexaenoic and eicosapentaenoic fatty acids detected in the ovaries of red king crabs from the Barents Sea indicate that these gonads can be a good alternative source for these fatty acids in the human diet and/or for extracting important fatty acids for use in the medical and pharmaceutical industries.
Differences in Mortality of Pre-Weaned and Post-Weaned Juvenile European Hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus) at Wildlife Rehabilitation Centres in the Czech Republic
Authors: Kadlecova Gabriela , Rasmussen Sophie Lund , Voslarova Eva , Vecerek Vladimir
Published: January 2023

Previous research from several European countries has indicated that the European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) is in decline. Wildlife rehabilitation centres contribute toward the protection of debilitated hedgehogs, including the young. Based on data from 27 wildlife rehabilitation centres, the mortality rate and the release rate of juvenile hedgehogs were evaluated depending on whether they were from normally timed litters (admitted from April to September) or from late litters (admitted from October to March). A total of 4388 juvenile European hedgehogs were admitted to wildlife rehabilitation centres in the Czech Republic from 2011 to 2020. The number of post-weaned young from late litters admitted (28%) did not differ from the number of pre-weaned young from late litters (29%). Where the outcome was known, young from late litters had the highest mortality rate (46%) in the year of admission. The release rate was the highest in post-weaned young from normally timed litters (86%). Further research should focus on the definition of optimal care and treatment of the underlying causes for admission of juvenile hedgehogs. The reproductive strategy (the timing of litters) of European hedgehogs under the climatic conditions of the Czech Republic affects the chance of survival of young at wildlife rehabilitation centres and likely also in the wild.