bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Land use intensity controls the diversity-productivity relationship in northern temperate grasslands of China
Authors: Yan Yidan , Xu Lijun , Wu Xinjia , Xue Wei , Nie Yingying , Ye Liming
Published: December 2023

Introduction

The diversity-productivity relationship is a central issue in maintaining the grassland ecosystem’s multifunctionality and supporting its sustainable management. Currently, the mainstream opinion on the diversity-productivity relationship recognizes that increases in species diversity promote ecosystem productivity.

Methods

Here, we challenge this opinion by developing a generalized additive model-based framework to quantify the response rate of grassland productivity to plant species diversity using vegetation survey data we collected along a land-use intensity gradient in northern China.

Results

Our results show that the grassland aboveground biomass responds significantly positively to the Shannon-Wiener diversity index at a rate of 46.8 g m-2 per unit increase of the Shannon-Wiener index in enclosure-managed grasslands, under the co-influence of climate and landscape factors. The aboveground biomass response rate stays positive at a magnitude of 47.1 g m-2 in forest understory grassland and 39.7 g m-2 in wetland grassland. Conversely, the response rate turns negative in heavily grazed grasslands at -55.8 g m-2, transiting via near-neutral rates of -7.0 and -7.3 g m-2 in mowing grassland and moderately grazed grassland, respectively.

Discussion

These results suggest that the diversity-productivity relationship in temperate grasslands not only varies by magnitude but also switches directions under varying levels of land use intensity. This highlights the need to consider land use intensity as a more important ecological integrity indicator for future ecological conservation programs in temperate grasslands.
Ethical leadership and TMT decision-making of corporate social responsibility – a perspective of self-determination theory
Authors: Meng Jia-jia , Wang Xue-dong , Xie Ming-yi , Hao Zhi-ling , Yang Jia-lu , Liu Yu-bing
Published: December 2023

This study examines the impact of ethical leadership on top management team (TMT) decision-making regarding corporate social responsibility (CSR), considering the mediating role of TMT passion and the moderating role of performance stress. The study distinguishes between TMT harmonious and obsessive work passion and categorizes CSR as proactive and reactive. The findings reveal the following: (1) Ethical leadership positively influences proactive CSR, with TMT harmonious work passion acting as a positive mediator and TMT obsessive work passion playing a negative mediating role; (2) ethical leadership positively affects reactive CSR, with both TMT harmonious and obsessive work passion serving as positive mediators; (3) performance stress diminishes the impact of ethical leadership on TMT harmonious work passion; however, it amplifies the effect on TMT obsessive work passion. Consequently, the mediating effect of TMT harmonious work passion weakens, while the mediating effect of TMT obsessive work passion strengthens. This study emphasizes the significant role of TMT in CSR strategic decision-making and proposes a novel mediating mechanism through which ethical leadership drives CSR decision-making by considering TMT work passion. These findings reconcile the theoretical-practical conflict and have important theoretical and practical implications for enterprises in fulfilling their social responsibility.
The influence of internship satisfaction and the psychological contract on the career identity behavior of fresh graduates
Authors: Feng Ying , Zhang Zhuo , Zeng Xiuzhen , Liu Yuying
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Frequent resignation of young workers brings huge costs to the organizational management of enterprises. The frequent turnover behavior is a sign of low career identity, and exploring the paths that influence career identity behaviors is necessary. Previous studies have found that internship satisfaction and the psychological contract can influence career identity behavior. However, the dimensions of the psychological contract are unclear, and it is uncertain whether internship satisfaction can influence career identity behavior through the different dimensions of the psychological contract. This study attempts to expand the concept of psychological contract and construct a multiple mediation model. It aims to analyze the mediating role of different dimensions of the psychological contract between internship satisfaction and career identity behavior.

Methods

A sample survey was conducted on Chinese fresh graduates by way of the questionnaire survey, and a total of 576 valid questionnaires were collected. Amos 26.0 was used to analyze the data and verify the multiple mediation model.

Results

The results showed that psychological contract can be divided into three dimensions: transactional contract, relational contract, and developmental contract. Internship satisfaction can positively influence career identity behavior via the three dimensions of psychological contract, and there are differences in mediating effects among the dimensions. The mediating effect of developmental contract is the highest, relational contract is the second, and transactional contract is the lowest.

Discussion

This article expands the dimensions of psychological contract, emphasizes the importance of developmental contract, contributes to the literature on organizational psychology, and provides scales and empirical evidence for future research. The analysis points out that fresh graduates with long-term development opportunities often show higher career identity behavior. This provides valuable insights for enhancing career identity behavior, improving career sustainability, and assisting organizations in managing human resource mobility.
How does agricultural insurance induce farmers to adopt a green lifestyle?
Authors: Hou Dainan , Wang Xin
Published: December 2023

This study is dedicated to exploring and establishing a theoretical framework for the impact of agricultural insurance on farmers’ green lifestyles. By thoroughly analyzing existing literature, this paper reveals the dual pathways through which agricultural insurance influences farmers’ behavior: one affects production activities, and the other affects lifestyle choices. Drawing on the Stimulus-Organism-Response (SOR) theory, the study elaborates in detail the incentive mechanisms of agricultural insurance, farmers’ cognition of green practices, and how these elements work together to guide a transformation in farmer behavior. This process systematically demonstrates the theoretical logic and pathways through which agricultural insurance promotes the transition to green lifestyles among farmers. Additionally, the study provides a preliminary description of the questionnaire design and its role in supplying foundational data for empirical analysis. The paper posits that agricultural insurance harbors an intrinsic mechanism to induce farmers toward greener lifestyles. We anticipate that this research will bring new perspectives to the field of agricultural insurance and contribute new dimensions to the theoretical framework of behavioral insurance.
unDerstandIng the cauSes of mediCation errOrs and adVerse drug evEnts for patients with mental illness in community caRe (DISCOVER): a qualitative study
Authors: Ayre Matthew J. , Lewis Penny J. , Phipps Denham L. , Keers Richard N.
Published: December 2023

Background

It is estimated that 237 million medication errors occur in England each year with a significant number occurring in the community. Our understanding of the causes of preventable medication errors and adverse drug events (ADE) affecting patients with mental illness is limited in this setting. Better understanding of the factors that contribute to errors can support the development of theory-driven improvement interventions.

Methods

Remote qualitative semi-structured interviews with 26 community-based healthcare professionals in England and Wales were undertaken between June–November 2022. Recruitment was undertaken using purposive sampling via professional networks. Interviews were guided by the critical incident technique and analysed using the framework method. Any data that involved speculation was not included in the analysis. Independent analysis was carried out by the research team to extract themes guided by the London Protocol.

Results

A total of 43 medication errors and 12 preventable ADEs were discussed, with two ADEs having an unknown error origin. Prescribing errors were discussed most commonly (n = 24), followed by monitoring errors (n = 8). Six contributory factor themes were identified: the individual (staff); the work environment; the teams/interfaces; the organisation and management; the patient; and the task and technology. The individual (staff) factors were involved in just over 80% of all errors discussed. Participants reported a lack of knowledge regarding psychotropic medication and mental illnesses which accompanied diffusion of responsibility. There were difficulties with team communication, particularly across care interfaces, such as ambiguity/brevity of information being communicated and uncertainty concerning roles which created confusion amongst staff. Unique patient social/behavioural contributory factors were identified such as presenting with challenging behaviour and complex lifestyles, which caused difficulties attending appointments as well as affecting overall clinical management.

Conclusion

These findings highlight that the causes of errors are multifactorial with some unique to this patient group. Key areas to target for improvement include the education/training of healthcare professionals regarding neuropharmacology/mental illnesses and enhancing communication across care interfaces. Future research should explore patient perspectives regarding this topic to help develop a holistic picture. These findings can be used to guide future intervention research to ameliorate medication safety challenges for this patient group.
Carbapenem resistant Enterobacterales in the United Arab Emirates: a retrospective analysis from 2010 to 2021
Authors: Thomsen Jens , Abdulrazzaq Najiba M. ,   The UAE AMR Surveillance Consortium, Everett Dean B. , Menezes Godfred Antony , Senok Abiola , Ayoub Moubareck Carole
Published: December 2023

Background

Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE) are spreading in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) where their dissemination is facilitated by international travel, trade, and tourism. The objective of this study is to describe the longitudinal changes of CRE as reported by the national AMR surveillance system of the UAE.

Methods

In this study, we retrospectively describe CRE isolated from 317 surveillance sites, including 87 hospitals and 230 centers/clinics from 2010 to 2021. The associated clinical, demographic, and microbiological characteristics are presented by relying on the UAE national AMR surveillance program. Data was analyzed using WHONET microbiology laboratory database software (http://www.whonet.org).

Results

A total of 14,593 carbapenem resistant Enterobacterales were analyzed, of which 48.1% were carbapenem resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKp), 25.1% carbapenem resistant Escherichia coli (CREc), and 26.8% represented 72 other carbapenem resistant species. Carbapenem resistant strains were mostly associated with adults and isolated from urine samples (36.9% of CRKp and 66.6% of CREc) followed by respiratory samples (26.95% for CRKp) and soft tissue samples (19.5% for CRKp). Over the studied period carbapenem resistance rates remained high, especially in K. pneumoniae, and in 2021 were equivalent to 67.6% for imipenem, 76.2% for meropenem, and 91.6% for ertapenem. Nevertheless, there was a statistically significant decreasing trend for imipenem and meropenem resistance in Klebsiella species (p < 0.01) while the decrease in ertapenem resistance was non-significant. Concerning E. coli, there was a statistically significant decreasing trend for meropenem and imipenem resistance over the 12 years, while ertapenem resistance increased significantly with 83.8% of E. coli exhibiting ertapenem resistance in 2021. Resistance rates to ceftazidime and cefotaxime remained higher than 90% (in 2021) for CRKp and cefotaxime rates increased to 90.5% in 2021 for CREc. Starting 2014, resistance to colistin and tigecycline was observed in carbapenem resistant Enterobacterales. CRE were associated with a higher mortality (RR: 6.3), admission to ICU (RR 3.9), and increased length of stay (LOS; 10 excess inpatient days per CRE case).

Conclusion

This study supports the need to monitor CRE in the UAE and draws attention to the significant increase of ertapenem resistance in E. coli. Future surveillance analysis should include a genetic description of carbapenem resistance to provide new strategies.
Facilitators and barriers to integration of noncommunicable diseases with HIV care at primary health care in Ethiopia: a qualitative analysis using CFIR
Authors: Badacho Abebe Sorsa , Mahomed Ozayr Haroon
Published: December 2023

Background

The rise in non-communicable diseases (NCD), such as hypertension and diabetes among people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLWH), has increased the demand for integrated care due to multiple chronic care needs. However, there is a dearth of evidence on contextual factors implementing integrated hypertension and diabetes care with HIV care. This study aimed to identify facilitators and barriers that could affect the integration of hypertension and diabetes with HIV care at primary health care in Ethiopia.

Methods

Five primary health facilities from five districts of the Wolaita zone of South Ethiopia were included in the qualitative study. Fifteen key informant interviews were conducted with healthcare providers and managers from the zonal, district, and facility levels from October to November 2022. Data collection and analysis were guided by a consolidated framework of implementation research (CFIR).

Results

Ten CFIR constructs were found to influence the integration. Perceived benefit of integration to patients, healthcare providers, and organization; perceived possibilities of integration implementation; availability of NCD guidelines and strategies; a supportive policy of decentralization and integration; perceived leaders and healthcare provider commitment were found to be facilitators. Perceived increased cost, insufficient attention to NCD care needs, inadequate number of trained professionals, inadequate equipment and apparatus such as blood pressure measurement, glucometers, strips, and NCD drugs, inadequate allocation of budget and weak health financing system and poor culture of data capturing and reporting were identified as barriers to integration.

Conclusion

It is important to address contextual barriers through innovative implementation science solutions to address multiple chronic care needs of PLWH by implementing integrated hypertension and diabetes with HIV care in primary healthcare. Training and task shifting, pairing experienced professionals, and strengthening the health care financing system to implement evidence-based integration of hypertension and diabetes are recommended.
Reported human infections of H9N2 avian influenza virus in China in 2021
Authors: Tan Min , Zeng Xiaoxu , Xie Yiran , Li Xiyan , Liu Jia , Yang Jiaying , Yang Lei , Wang Dayan
Published: December 2023

Introduction

The continued emergence of human infections of H9N2 avian influenza virus (AIV) poses a serious threat to public health. The prevalent Y280/G9 lineage of H9N2 AIV in Chinese poultry can directly bind to human receptors, increasing the risk of spillover infections to humans. Since 2013, the number of human cases of H9N2 avian influenza has been increasing continuously, and in 2021, China reported the highest number of human cases, at 25.

Methods

In this study, we analyzed the age, geographic, temporal, and sex distributions of humans with H9N2 avian influenza in 2021 using data from the National Influenza Center (Beijing, China). We also conducted evolutionary, gene homology, and molecular characterization analyses of the H9N2 AIVs infecting humans.

Results

Our findings show that children under the age of 12 accounted for 80% of human cases in 2021, and females were more frequently affected than males. More cases occurred in winter than in summer, and most cases were concentrated in southern China. Human-infecting H9N2 viruses showed a high level of genetic homology and belonged to the prevalent G57 genotype. Several additional α2,6-SA-binding sites and sites of mammalian adaptation were also identified in the genomes of human-infecting H9N2 viruses.

Discussion

Therefore, continuous monitoring of H9N2 AIV and the implementation of further measures to control the H9N2 virus in poultry are essential to reduce the interspecies transmission of the virus.
Growth and development of syphilis-exposed and -unexposed uninfected children during their first 18 months of life in Suzhou, China: a nested case–control study with propensity score matching
Authors: Gong Tian , Zhong Yi , Ding Yaling , Wu Qianlan , Yao Mengxin , Yin Jieyun , Shao Yan , Liu Juning
Published: December 2023

Background

With the successful implementation of Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) policies, the proportion of infants with exposure to both syphilis and antibiotic medication in utero has increased in China, but there is limited evidence about the early growth and development of such infants.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective nested case–control study based on data from the China PMTCT program conducted in Suzhou from 2016 to 2021. Propensity score matching (PSM) was employed to extract 826 syphilis-exposed but uninfected (SEU) infants and 1,652 syphilis-unexposed uninfected (SUU) infants from a total of 712,653 infants. Maternal characteristics were collected through questionnaires, such as parity, age, education level, smoking and drinking habits during pregnancy. Infantile characteristics were retrieved from medical records or via questionnaires, such as gestational age, gender, mode of delivery, Apgar scores, birth weight and length, outdoor time, vitamin D intake, and feed pattern. Mixed effects models, adjusting for potential influencing factors, were used to investigate the early infantile growth pattern of SEU and SUU infants. All statistical analysis were conducted using R (version 4.2.0).

Results

Length and weight were slightly higher in SEU infants than in the SUU infants at some time points (months 0 and 18 for length, p-values <0.05; months 0, 6, and 18 for weight, p < 0.05). In the mixed effects model, SEU group was found to be associated with higher weight [exponentiated beta exp.(β) = 1.15, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) = 1.06, 1.25], length [exp(β) = 1.42, 95% CI = 1.14, 1.77], and BMI z-score [exp(β) = 1.09, 95% CI = 1.00, 1.19].

Conclusion

With the effective prevention of congenital syphilis under the PMTCT program, SEU infants have non-inferior growth patterns during their first 18 months of life compared with SUU controls in Suzhou, China.
Medicine Gets Proactive: Prevention is Better Than Cure
Authors: Debad Susan J. , Snyder Michael , Ganz Ariel
Published: December 2023

If you have ever looked at a car’s dashboard, you probably know that it can provide lots of important information about the car’s health—information that can help the owner keep the car running well. But did you know that our bodies need the same kind of attention? For a long time, doctors have typically diagnosed and treated patients after they get sick. But what if doctors could catch illnesses early, before they even cause symptoms? New technologies, including wearable devices like smartwatches and health-tracking apps, can help with this. Devices that monitor our bodies constantly will know what is “normal” for each person, so they can warn us of small changes happening in our bodies that might mean we are starting to get sick—before we even have symptoms! This approach is called precision medicine, and could have many benefits for healthcare, from controlling future pandemics to possibly even helping humans live longer!
The vital role of exercise and nutrition in COVID-19 rehabilitation: synergizing strength
Authors: Peterson Brent M. , Unger Isabelle , Sun Sunny , Park Ji-Yeun , Kim Jinsil , Gunasekera Richard S. , Wilson Jason , Galbadage Thushara
Published: December 2023

Since the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the global healthcare community has faced the challenge of understanding and addressing the ongoing and multi-faceted SARS-CoV-2 infection outcomes. As millions of individuals worldwide continue to navigate the complexities of post-hospitalization recovery, reinfection rates, and the increasing prevalence of Long-COVID symptoms, comprehensive COVID-19 rehabilitation strategies are greatly needed. Previous studies have highlighted the potential synergy between exercise and nutrition, suggesting that their integration into patient rehabilitation programs may yield improved clinical outcomes for survivors of COVID-19. Our group aimed to consolidate existing knowledge following the implementation of patient, intervention, comparison, and outcome (PICO) search strategies on the distinct and combined impacts of exercise and nutrition interventions in facilitating the recovery of COVID-19 patients following hospitalization, with a specific focus on their implications for both public health and clinical practice. The incorporation of targeted nutritional strategies alongside exercise-based programs may expedite patient recovery, ultimately promoting independence in performing activities of daily living (ADLs). Nonetheless, an imperative for expanded scientific inquiry remains, particularly in the realm of combined interventions. This mini-review underscores the compelling prospects offered by an amalgamated approach, advocating for the seamless integration of exercise and nutrition as integral components of post-hospitalization COVID-19 rehabilitation. The pursuit of a comprehensive understanding of the synergistic effects and effectiveness of exercise and nutrition stands as a crucial objective in advancing patient care and refining recovery strategies in the wake of this enduring global health crisis.
Marketing performance and factors influencing farmers choice for agricultural output marketing channels: the case of garden pea (Pisum sativum) in India
Authors: Thakur Pankaj , Mehta Piyush , Devi Chhaya , Sharma Prashant , Singh Krishna Kumar , Yadav Shikha , Lal Priyanka , Raghav Yashpal Singh , Kapoor Promil , Mishra Pradeep
Published: December 2023

Agriculture is the backbone of Indian economy and farmers play significant role in sustaining the sector. However, farmers face several challenges such as poor market access and limited access to market information which adversely affect their marketing performance. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the marketing performance and factors influencing farmers choice for agricultural output marketing channels in garden pea in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. The study utilized primary data collected through structured questionnaires administered via the interview method to a sample size of 400 farmers selected through a multistage stratified random sampling technique. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics and acharya approach to study the marketing performance. Further, a multinomial logistic regression model was used to determine the factors that influence farmers marketing choice of marketing channels. Additionally, the constraints experienced by farmers during marketing were investigated using garret ranking. The study revealed that farmers who sold their pea directly to consumer had higher marketing performance than those who sold through market intermediaries such as local traders, commission agents and wholesalers. Further, the results indicated that farm income, farm experience, distance to the market and market information were significant determinants of farmers choice for marketing channels. Whereas, lack of market consultancy, high commission chargers and poor transportation were the major constraints faced by farmers during marketing of pea. The findings of this study highlight the need for policymakers to develop and implement interventions that enhance farmers marketing skill, facilitate access to markets, improve negotiation power which can lead to higher incomes for farmers, improve their livelihoods, better quality produce for consumers and a more efficient and sustainable food system.
Evaluation of a novel dipotassium phosphate bolus for treatment of metabolic disorders in dairy cattle
Authors: Verhoef Walter , Zuidhof Sjoert , Ross Joseph A. , Beaugrand Kendall , Olson Merle
Published: December 2023

A dipotassium phosphate bolus (K Phos-Boost) has been developed to treat both hypophosphatemia and hypokalemia, as the clinical signs of both conditions are similar and occur in the early post-partum period. The objective of this research was to evaluate the efficacy and application of the bolus for prevention and treatment of metabolic diseases that are common in dairy production systems. Study 1 (Pharmacokinetic study): Healthy post-partum cows were either untreated or received two K Phos-Boost boluses at times 0, 24, and 48 h. Blood was taken at t = 0, 2-, 4-, 6-, 8-, 10-, 24-, and 52-h post-treatment for analysis of total serum minerals. There was an increase in serum phosphorous to normal levels within 2 h of treatment with the bolus, but control cows remained hypophosphatemic. Serum potassium was significantly elevated 2 h after bolus administration relative to control, while calcium, magnesium, sodium, and chloride levels were not affected by the K Phos-Boost bolus. Study 2 (Downer Cow Treatment): K Phos-Boost boluses were provided to cows that were unresponsive to intravenous calcium therapy and had been unable to stand for over 24 h (“downer cows”). Most cows (16 of 19) treated with two boluses were standing without assistance between 1 and 24 h after treatment and the serum phosphorous was increased to normal levels in five of five tested animals. Study 3 (Ketosis Treatment): cows with clinical ketosis were provided with propylene glycol and K Phos-Boost boluses (n = 29) or only propylene glycol (n = 23). Cows treated with the K Phos-Boost bolus showed a more rapid recovery by increased milk production (3.9 kg/day) and rumination rate (97 min/day). Study 4 (Health Promotion): cows in herds with >40% post-partum hypophosphatemia received K Phos-Boost boluses (n = 130) or no treatment (n = 146) following calving. There was a trend for treated 2nd-lactation animals to have higher milk production after 30 DIM (49.1 vs. 46.2 kg/day; P = 0.09). There were no significant differences between control and bolus treated animals in the incidence of subclinical ketosis, post-calving total health events, or culling rates. The K Phos-Boost bolus is a novel product and has the potential to treat and prevent several important metabolic diseases in dairy cattle. The studies described in this paper are early investigations and further research should be conducted to demonstrate the applications of a dipotassium phosphate bolus in dairy cows.
Case report: Application of color Doppler sonography for the assessment of pulmonary consolidations in a dog
Authors: Kraszewska Katarzyna , Gajewski Michał , Boysen Søren R.
Published: December 2023

A 1,5-year-old male Maltipoo was presented to the emergency service for dyspnea, weakness, and cough. An echocardiographic examination showed evidence of pulmonary hypertension with a McConnell sign. Lung ultrasound, including color Doppler, was performed and identified two distinct populations of lung consolidation. Color Doppler analysis of the first type of consolidation showed the absence of blood flow within regions of the consolidation and flow amputation. These findings were consistent with the “vascular sign” reported in human medicine and prompted consideration of pulmonary thromboembolism as a differential diagnosis. In the second type of consolidation, color Doppler identified blood flow within the pulmonary vessels of the consolidated lung, forming a “branching tree-like” pattern that followed the anatomical course of the pulmonary vasculature. These findings suggested that blood flow was preserved within the pulmonary vasculature of the consolidated lung and prompted consideration of inflammatory causes of pulmonary pathology. On recheck 6 days later, recanalization of the first type of consolidation was identified with color Doppler. The case was followed serially once a month for 5 months with LUS, which showed continued improvement. Based on a positive fecal Baermann test, a final diagnosis ofAngiostrongylus vasorumwas made. New or Unique information Provided—this is the first report of color Doppler LUS being used to characterize and help differentiate the cause of lung consolidation in dogs.
Sleeping More Hours Per Day Than Working Can Prevent New-Onset Diabetes
Authors: Yu Haiyan , Zhao Xiaoyu , Zhang Xiaodong , Wei Haishan , Zuo Anju , Guo Yuan
Published: December 2023

Objectives: We expressed the combined effect by the ratio of daily sleep time to daily work time. The aim of this study was to discussed the predictive ability of daily sleep hours/work hours (SH/WH) ratio for diabetes risk.

Methods: Cox proportional hazards regression was used to calculate the hazard ratios (HRs) of new-onset diabetes. Restricted cubic spline analyses were performed to visualize the influence trend of SH/WH ratio and diabetes risk.

Results: The RCS model revealed a non-linear and L-shaped correlation between SH/WH ratio and diabetes risk. Compared with the participates with SH/WH ratio <1, those with a ratio ≥1 had a lower risk of developing diabetes. The multivariable adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of new-onset diabetes in Q2, Q3, Q4 and Q5 groups compared with Q1 group were 0.82 (0.57, 1.19), 1.05 (0.69, 1.59), 0.57 (0.36, 0.91), 0.66 (0.42, 1.06). The Kaplan-Meier curve showed that Q4 group had lower cumulative incidence.

Conclusion: Sleeping longer than working (SH/WH ratio ≥1) can reduce risk for developing diabetes. A minimal risk observed at 1.10–<1.37 (the fourth quintile) of SH/WH ratio.
Research on Polygon Pest-Infected Leaf Region Detection Based on YOLOv8
Authors: Zhu Ruixue , Hao Fengqi , Ma Dexin
Published: December 2023

Object detection in deep learning provides a viable solution for detecting crop-pest-infected regions. However, existing rectangle-based object detection methods are insufficient to accurately detect the shape of pest-infected regions. In addition, the method based on instance segmentation has a weak ability to detect the pest-infected regions at the edge of the leaves, resulting in unsatisfactory detection results. To solve these problems, we constructed a new polygon annotation dataset called PolyCorn, designed specifically for detecting corn leaf pest-infected regions. This was made to address the scarcity of polygon object detection datasets. Building upon this, we proposed a novel object detection model named Poly-YOLOv8, which can accurately and efficiently detect corn leaf pest-infected regions. Furthermore, we designed a loss calculation algorithm that is insensitive to ordering, thereby enhancing the robustness of the model. Simultaneously, we introduced a loss scaling factor based on the perimeter of the polygon, improving the detection ability for small objects. We constructed comparative experiments, and the results demonstrate that Poly-YOLOv8 outperformed other models in detecting irregularly shaped pest-infected regions, achieving 67.26% in mean average precision under 0.5 threshold (mAP50) and 128.5 in frames per second (FPS).
Study on Dissipation Law of Pesticides in Cauliflower Based on Hyperspectral Image Technique
Authors: Li Rui , Wang Huaiwen , Shen Bingbing , Yao Xingwei
Published: December 2023

In order to rapidly and non-destructively detect the residual rate of emamectin benzoate+indoxacarb pesticides on cauliflower, a study was conducted using hyperspectral technology to investigate the dissipation law of this pesticide over time. Hyperspectral imaging was employed to capture spectral data from cauliflower samples with and without the pesticide, focusing on the region of interest. The spectral data, consisting of 216 bands (ranging from 950 nm to 1666 nm), were preprocessed using techniques such as Savitzky–Golay convolution smoothing (S-G), multivariate scattering correction (MSC), and standard normal variate (SNV). Next, characteristic spectra for each pesticide were extracted using the competitive adaptive reweighted sampling algorithm (CARS). This study utilized the partial least squares (PLS) algorithm to construct a discriminative model aimed at identifying pesticide residues on cauliflower. The accuracy of the hyperspectral imaging technique was validated by comparing the results with those obtained through chromatography. The PLS model, optimized using the SNV method, exhibited the highest discriminant accuracy, achieving a recognition rate of 100%. The residual rate of indoxacarb detected through hyperspectral technology closely corresponded to the results obtained through chromatography. It was found that the discrepancy in the half-life of pesticides as detected by hyperspectral and chromatographic methods is a mere 0.14 days. These findings highlight the potential of hyperspectral imaging technology for studying pesticide dissipation on cauliflower and detecting pesticide residues.
Effect of Defoliation Time on Rye Yield and Its Quality under Dual-Purpose Cultivation for Roughage and Concentrate Production
Authors: Akimoto Masahiro , Okamoto Honami , Yoshihira Taiki
Published: December 2023

A dual-purpose cultivation system allows cereals to produce both roughage and concentrate during one growing season. To establish a cultivation system for rye, the appropriate time for foliage mowing was determined to ensure a yield of nutrient-rich roughage from the first crop and abundant grain from the second crop. This is because the stage of growth at defoliation affects the yield and quality of both crops. The experimental rye line ‘4R-504’ was grown in two successive cropping seasons; 2019/2020 and 2020/2021. Foliage was mowed at three different growth stages: the booting stage (BT), the early-heading stage (EH), and the fully heading stage (FH). Along with the growth stage, the plants grew taller, and the highest dry matter yield in the first crop was observed in FH (757 g m−2), which was 1.5 times higher than that in BT (480 g m−2). Although the nutritional value was higher in plants harvested at an earlier growth stage, the EH and FH plants showed a higher dry matter yield, resulting in a higher production of metabolizable energy per area. Plants that had been mowed earlier regrew vigorously and produced an abundant amount of grains in the second crop. BT showed the highest grain yield of 239 g m−2, which corresponds to 60% of the yield from the unmowed control. FH produced grains of only 76 g m−2, which barely met the requirement of the dual-purpose cropping system. To enhance the nutritional yield of roughage, it is recommended to harvest the first crop at the early heading stage. Conversely, to achieve a higher grain yield, defoliation should be carried out during the booting stage.
Responses of Tomato Crop and Water Productivity to Deficit Irrigation Strategies and Salinity Stress in Greenhouse
Authors: Alshami Akram K. , El-Shafei Ahmed , Al-Omran Abdulrasoul M. , Alghamdi Abdulaziz G. , Louki Ibrahim , Alkhasha Arafat
Published: December 2023

Saudi Arabia faces water scarcity and inadequate sustainable sources, particularly in agriculture, necessitating efficient irrigation water management to improve productivity amidst rising demand. The study investigated the impact of irrigation levels and water salinity on tomato plants in greenhouses, covering four irrigation levels (100%, 80%, 60%, and 40% of ETc) and three water sources (FW (0.9 dS·m−1), SW (3.6 dS·m−1) and MW (2.25 dS·m−1)). Salinity impacts crop yield, physiological responses, and fruit quality. The photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, transpiration, and chlorophyll content decrease with MW and SW, negatively affecting morphological characteristics. For MW, it was recommended to apply 60% deficit irrigation with a yield of 98 kg·ha−1, and water productivity (WP) improved to 21.93 kg·m−3 compared to 13.65 kg·m−3 at full irrigation (FI). In SW, 80% irrigation was suggested, as there was no significant difference in yield compared to FI. For FW, 60% deficit irrigation produced the best water conservation (104.58 kg·ha−1 yield and 23.19 kg·m−3 WP), while FI produced the highest yield per unit area (123.48 kg·ha−1 yield and 16.51 kg·m−3 WP). Nonetheless, greater water and salinity stress was associated with increased fruit quality measures such as total acidity, vitamin C, and soluble solids. The results show that implementing deficit irrigation with salinity strategies in greenhouse tomatoes could improve crop adaptability, yield, and water productivity in the face of water scarcity and salinity variability.
Effects of Different Drip Irrigation Patterns on Grain Yield and Population Structure of Different Water- and Fertilizer-Demanding Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Varieties
Authors: Jing Jianguo , Li Zhaofeng , Qian Fu , Chang Xinyi , Li Weihua
Published: December 2023

A suitable population structure is the foundation for a high yield of wheat. Studying the changes in yield and population structure of different wheat rows under drip irrigation conditions can provide a theoretical basis for optimizing wheat drip irrigation pattern. In a two-year field experiment, two different water- and fertilizer-demanding spring wheat varieties (XC22 and XC44) were used to study the changes of stem and tiller dynamics, dry matter accumulation, canopy photo-synthetically active radiation (PAR) interception, and canopy apparent photosynthesis rate (CAP) under one tube serving four rows of wheat drip irrigation pattern (TR4, drip lateral spacing (DLS) = 60 cm, wheat row spacing (WRS) = 15 cm) and one tube serving six rows of wheat drip irrigation pattern (TR6, DLS = 90 cm, WRS = 15 cm; TR6L, DLS = 90 cm, WRS = 10 cm and TR6S, DLS = 80 cm, WRS = 10 cm). The results showed that under the condition of equal row spacing of 15 cm, after increasing the number of wheat rows serving by one drip irrigation tube from four (TR4, control) to six (TR6), the yields (water use efficiency) of XC22 and XC44 were lower by 11.19% and 8.63%, respectively. The reduction of yield was related to uneven population growth, specifically as follows: compared with the first wheat row (R1), at flowering stage the leaf area index (LAI) and PAR interception in the third wheat row (R3) of XC22 and XC44 were significantly decreased by 30.02%, 18.69%, 9.59%, and 14.74%, respectively. At the maturity stage, the biomass, plant height, and panicles number of tiller (TPN) in R3 were significantly decreased by 22.15%, 12.34%, 15.46%, 5.24%, 65.07%, and 42.11%, respectively. At the jointing, flowering, and milk-ripening stage, the CAP were significantly decreased by 24.65%, 22.85%, 17.06%, 14.02%, 42.14%, and 32.27%, respectively, the decrease of XC22 were all higher than that of XC44 (except for PAR interception). After the TR6 pattern was processed to narrow the wheat row spacing from 15 cm to 10 cm under the condition of the same drip tube lateral spacing (TR6L) and under the condition of shortening drip tube lateral spacing by 10 cm (TR6S), the yields in R3 of XC22 and XC44 were significantly increased by 20.07%, 18.43%, 30.39%, and 23.80%, respectively, and the increase in yields were related to the improvement of LAI, biomass, plant height, TPN, PAR interception, and increased population photosynthesis. Among the four drip irrigation patterns, for both XC22 and XC44, the yield of TR6S was the closest to that of TR4, and the yields of them were significantly higher than that of TR6 and TR6L.
Evaluation of the Composition of the Cholesterol, Tocopherols, β-Carotene and Fatty Acids Profile of the Liver Tissue of Male Water Buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) Managed in Different Ecosystems of the Eastern Amazon
Authors: Rodrigues Laurena Silva , Silva Jamile Andrea Rodrigues da , Lourenço-Júnior José de Brito , Maciel e Silva André Guimarães , Rodrigues Thomaz Cyro Guimarães de Carvalho , Silva Welligton Conceição da , Silva Thiago Carvalho da , de Castro Vinicius Costa Gomes , Alfaia Cristina Mateus , Almeida André Martinho de , Prates José António Mestre
Published: December 2023

The diet offered to animals has a great influence on the composition of tissues and, consequently, the quality. The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of Amazonian ecosystems, in the dry and rainy periods of the year, on the composition of cholesterol, tocopherols, β-carotene and the fatty acid profile of the livers of water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) reared in the Eastern Amazon, in an extensive or intensive system. Total lipid content was influenced by the location and time of year (p < 0.05). Ninety-six male water buffaloes were used (12 per sampling period), aged between 24 and 36 months, with average weights of 432 kg (end of the rainy season) and 409 kg (end of the dry season). Total cholesterol, α-tocopherol and γ-tocopherol influenced the relationship between extensive vs intensive ecosystems, location, periods and the interaction between the location and period of the year (p < 0.05). Animals raised in a pasture ecosystem had the highest values of omega-3, and those raised in confinement, the highest values of omega-6 (p < 0.05). The proportions of n-6/n-3 and hypocholesterolemia (7.14) and hypercholesterolemia (3.08%) (h/H) were found in greater amounts in animals raised in confinement (p < 0.05). The atherogenic index (AI) had a higher value in the rainy season, in animals raised in Santarém (2.37%), with no difference between pasture and feedlot ecosystems, except in animals raised in the rainy season in Nova Timboteua, with a lower AI (1.53%). The thrombogenicity index (TI) was higher in the livers of confined animals (0.32%) and lower (0.18%) in those raised in Nova Timboteua (rainy season). Amazonian ecosystems influence the nutritional values of buffalo liver, with the best nutritional values in animals in the extensive system.
Immunoexpression of Spexin in Selected Segments of the Bovine (Bos taurus taurus) Gastrointestinal Tract
Authors: Dajnowska Aleksandra , Osiak-Wicha Cezary , Piech Małgorzata , Muszyński Siemowit , Tomaszewska Ewa , Ropka-Molik Katarzyna , Krzysiak Michał K. , Arciszewski Marcin B.
Published: December 2023

In the expansive domain of neuropeptide investigation, spexin (SPX) has emerged as a captivating subject, exerting a significant impact on diverse physiological processes. Initially identified in mice, SPX’s distribution transcends various organs, suggesting its potential regulatory roles. Despite extensive research in smaller species, a notable gap exists in our comprehension of SPX in larger mammals, particularly ruminants. Our study meticulously explores the immunolocalization of SPX within the gastrointestinal organs of bovines, with a specific focus on the abomasum, jejunum, and colon. Tissue samples from Holstein–Friesian cattle underwent careful processing, and gene mRNA expression levels, particularly GALR2 and SPX, were assessed. Intriguingly, our findings revealed that GALR2 expression was highest in the jejunum, signifying a potentially critical role in this digestive segment. Immunohistochemistry further unveiled distinct patterns of SPX immunoreactivity in each examined region—abomasum, jejunum, and colon—highlighting nuanced, region-specific responses. Notably, the abomasum and jejunum predominantly exhibited positive immunoreactivity in the submucosal plexus, while the colon, in contrast, demonstrated a higher degree of immunoreactivity in myenteric plexus neurons. Our investigation, grounded in the hypothesis of ubiquitous SPX distribution in ruminants, delves deeper into the intricate role of SPX within the enteric nervous system. This study meticulously explores the spatial distribution of SPX within the myenteric and submucosal plexuses, integral components of the enteric nervous system. These findings significantly enhance our understanding of SPX’s potential roles in gastrointestinal regulation in bovines, providing a unique perspective on larger mammals and enriching our comprehension of this intriguing neuropeptide’s significance in various physiological processes.
Optimized Treatment of Nosocomial Peritonitis
Authors: De Waele Jan , Coccolini Federico , Lagunes Leonel , Maseda Emilio , Rausei Stefano , Rubio-Perez Ines , Theodorakopoulou Maria , Arvaniti Kostoula
Published: December 2023

This comprehensive review aims to provide a practical guide for intensivists, focusing on enhancing patient care associated with nosocomial peritonitis (NP). It explores the epidemiology, diagnosis, and management of NP, a significant contributor to the mortality of surgical patients worldwide. NP is, per definition, a hospital-acquired condition and a consequence of gastrointestinal surgery or a complication of other diseases. NP, one of the most prevalent causes of sepsis in surgical Intensive Care Units (ICUs), is often associated with multi-drug resistant (MDR) bacteria and high mortality rates. Early clinical suspicion and the utilization of various diagnostic tools like biomarkers and imaging are of great importance. Microbiology is often complex, with antimicrobial resistance escalating in many parts of the world. Fungal peritonitis and its risk factors, diagnostic hurdles, and effective management approaches are particularly relevant in patients with NP. Contemporary antimicrobial strategies for treating NP are discussed, including drug resistance challenges and empirical antibiotic regimens. The importance of source control in intra-abdominal infection management, including surgical and non-surgical interventions, is also emphasized. A deeper exploration into the role of open abdomen treatment as a potential option for selected patients is proposed, indicating an area for further investigation. This review underscores the need for more research to advance the best treatment strategies for NP.
Benzodioxane–Benzamides as FtsZ Inhibitors: Effects of Linker’s Functionalization on Gram-Positive Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Suigo Lorenzo , Margolin William , Ulzurrun Eugenia , Hrast Rambaher Martina , Zanotto Carlo , Sebastián-Pérez Victor , Campillo Nuria E. , Straniero Valentina , Valoti Ermanno
Published: December 2023

FtsZ is an essential bacterial protein abundantly studied as a novel and promising target for antimicrobials. FtsZ is highly conserved among bacteria and mycobacteria, and it is crucial for the correct outcome of the cell division process, as it is responsible for the division of the parent bacterial cell into two daughter cells. In recent years, the benzodioxane–benzamide class has emerged as very promising and capable of targeting both Gram-positive and Gram-negative FtsZs. In this study, we explored the effect of including a substituent on the ethylenic linker between the two main moieties on the antimicrobial activity and pharmacokinetic properties. This substitution, in turn, led to the generation of a second stereogenic center, with both erythro and threo isomers isolated, characterized, and evaluated. With this work, we discovered how the hydroxy group slightly affects the antimicrobial activity, while being an important anchor for the exploitation and development of prodrugs, probes, and further derivatives.