bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The 9-item Concise Health Risk Tracking – Self-Report (CHRT-SR9) measure of suicidal risk: Performance in adult primary care patients
Authors: Nandy Karabi , Rush A. John , Carmody Thomas J. , Mayes Taryn L. , Trivedi Madhukar H.
Published: February 2023

Purpose

To evaluate the psychometric properties of a 9-item Concise Health Risk Tracking Self-Report (or CHRT-SR9) to assess suicidal risk in adult primary care outpatients.

Methods

Overall, 369 adults completed the original 14-item version of CHRT-SR at baseline and within 4 months thereafter, from which the CHRT-SR9 was extracted using multigroup confirmatory factor analysis. Measurement invariance (across age and sex) and classical test theory characteristics of the CHRT-SR9 were evaluated. Concurrent validity was assessed by comparing CHRT-SR9 responses to those of the suicide item in the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), both cross-sectionally and as a change measure over time.

Results

Confirmatory factor analysis identified the CHRT-SR9 as the optimal solution. Factors included pessimism, helplessness, despair (2 items each) and suicidal thoughts (3 items). Measurement invariance held across sex and age groups, indicating that mean differences among sub-groups were real and not attributable to measurement bias. Classical test theory revealed acceptable item-total correlations overall (0.57–0.79) and internal consistency (Spearman–Brown from 0.76 to 0.90). Concurrent validity analyses revealed that the CHRT-SR9 can measure both improvement and worsening of suicidality over time. A PHQ-9 response of 0, 1, 2, and 3 on the suicide item corresponded to 7.82 (5.53), 16.80 (4.99), 20.71 (5.36), and 25.95 (7.30) (mean and SD) on CHRT-SR9 total score, respectively.

Conclusion

The CHRT-SR9 is a brief self-report evaluating suicidality with excellent psychometric properties that is sensitive to change over time.
Association of thyroid function with abnormal lipid metabolism in young patients with first-episode and drug naïve major depressive disorder
Authors: Hu Jieqiong , Ji Yunxin , Lang Xiaoe , Zhang Xiang-Yang
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Abnormal lipid metabolism in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) has received increasing attention. The coexistence of MDD and abnormal thyroid function has been intensively studied. Moreover, thyroid function is closely related to lipid metabolism. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between thyroid function and abnormal lipid metabolism in young patients with first-episode and drug naïve (FEDN) MDD.

Methods

A total of 1,251 outpatients aged 18–44 years with FEDN MDD were enrolled. Demographic data were collected, and lipid and thyroid function levels were measured, including total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), free triiodothyronine (FT3), free tetraiodothyronine (FT4), anti-thyroglobulin antibody (TG-Ab), and anti-thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPO-Ab). The Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAMD), Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAMA), and Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) positive subscale were also assessed for each patient.

Results

Compared with young MDD patients without comorbid lipid metabolism abnormalities, patients with comorbid lipid metabolism abnormalities had higher body mass index (BMI) values, HAMD score, HAMA score, PANSS positive subscale score, TSH levels, TG-Ab levels, and TPO-Ab levels. Binary logistic regression analysis showed that TSH level, HAMD score and BMI were risk factors for abnormal lipid metabolism. TSH levels were an independent risk factor for abnormal lipid metabolism in young MDD patients. Stepwise multiple linear regression showed that both TC and LDL-C levels were positively correlated with TSH levels, HAMD and PANSS positive subscale scores, respectively. HDL-C levels were negatively correlated with TSH levels. TG levels were positively correlated with TSH and TG-Ab levels and HAMD score.

Discussion

Our results show that thyroid function parameters, especially TSH levels, are implicated in abnormal lipid metabolism in young patients with FEDN MDD.
Measuring symptoms of obsessive-compulsive and related disorders using a single dimensional self-report scale
Authors: Moreno-Amador Beatriz , Piqueras José A. , Rodríguez-Jiménez Tíscar , Martínez-González Agustín E. , Cervin Matti
Published: February 2023

Background

Obsessions and compulsions are heterogenous but can be classified into obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), hoarding disorder (HD), hair-pulling disorder (HPD), and skin-picking disorder (SPD). OCD is in itself heterogenous, with symptoms clustering around four major symptom dimensions: contamination/cleaning, symmetry/ordering, taboo obsessions, and harm/checking. No single self-report scale captures the full heterogeneity of OCD and related disorders, limiting assessment in clinical practice and research on nosological relations among the disorders.

Methods

To provide a single self-report scale of OCD and related disorders that respects the heterogeneity of OCD, we expanded the DSM-5-based Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders-Dimensional Scales (OCRD-D) so that is also includes the four major symptom dimensions of OCD. A psychometric evaluation and an exploration of the overarching relations among the dimensions were conducted using an online survey which was completed by 1,454 Spanish adolescents and adults (age span = 15–74 years). Approximately 8 months after the initial survey, 416 participants completed the scale again.

Results

The expanded scale showed excellent internal psychometric properties, adequate test-retest correlations, known groups validity, and correlations in the expected directions with well-being, depression/anxiety symptoms, and satisfaction with life. The higher-order structure of the measure indicated that harm/checking and taboo obsessions formed a common disturbing thoughts factor and that HPD and SPD formed a common body-focused repetitive behaviors factor.

Conclusion

The expanded OCRD-D (OCRD-D-E) shows promise as a unified way to assess symptoms across the major symptom dimensions of OCD and related disorders. The measure may be useful in clinical practice (e.g., screening) and research, but more research on construct validity, incremental validity, and clinical utility is needed.
Association between interpersonal relations and anxiety, depression symptoms, and suicidal ideation among middle school students
Authors: Zheng Meixin , Guo Xiaoyan , Chen Zhiyan , Deng Jing , Hu Mi
Published: February 2023

Objective

This study aimed to explore the relationship between different types of interpersonal relationships and anxiety symptoms, depressive symptoms, and suicidal ideation and discusses the impact of different grades among middle school students.

Methods

The Patient Health Questionnaire Depression Scale, the Chinese version of the Generalized Anxiety Scale, suicidal ideation questions, and interpersonal relations items were used to measure the depression symptoms, anxiety symptoms, suicidal ideation, and interpersonal relations of the participants. The variables of anxiety symptoms, depressive symptoms, suicidal ideation, and interpersonal relations were screened using the Chi-square test and principal component analysis. AMOS17.0 constructs the path of the association between interpersonal relations and depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms, and suicidal ideation.

Results

The mother-child relationship had direct impacts of −0.06, −0.07, and −0.06 on anxiety symptoms, depressive symptoms, and suicidal ideation. On anxiety symptoms, depressive symptoms, and suicidal ideation, the direct impacts of the father-child relationship were −0.09, −0.03, and −0.08. Moreover, the direct effects of peer relationships on depressive symptoms were −0.04, whereas the direct impact of teacher-student relationships on anxiety and depressive symptoms were −0.10 and −0.09. Further pathway analysis based on grade level showed that in the junior high school model, the direct effect of the mother-child relationship on anxiety and depressive symptoms was −0.18 and −0.16. The direct impact of the father-child relationship on depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation was −0.08 and 0.09. The direct effect of peer relationships on depressive symptoms was −0.08, and the direct impact of the teacher-student relationship on anxiety symptoms was −0.06. In the high school model, the direct effect of the mother-child relationship on suicidal ideation was −0.07, while the direct impact of the father-child relationship on anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation was −0.10, −0.07, and −0.12, respectively. In addition, the direct effects of peer relationships on anxiety and depression were −0.06 and −0.05, and the direct impact of teacher-student relationships on anxiety and depression was −0.10 and −0.11.

Conclusion

The father-child relationship affects suicidal ideation and depression the most, followed by the mother-child relationship, the teacher-student interaction, and the peer relationship. The teacher-student relationship influences anxiety symptoms the most, followed by the father-child and mother-child relationships. The association between interpersonal interactions and anxiety, depressive symptoms, and suicidal ideation varied significantly across grade levels.
Association between caring for grandchildren based on living arrangements and cognitive function among Chinese middle-aged and older adults: The mediating roles of social activities and depressive symptoms
Authors: Hou Xuebei , Xiong Yuan , Qiao Guiyuan , Zhou Jing
Published: February 2023

Introduction

In the context of an aging population and age-related conditions increasing, the increasing number of middle-aged and older adults are involved in grandchildren care. This study aimed to 1) explore the association between caring for grandchildren based on living arrangements and cognitive function among Chinese middle-aged and older adults; and 2) investigate the mediating roles of social activities and depressive symptoms in the aforementioned association.

Methods

This study selected 5490 Chinese people (≥45 years old) from the 2018 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). Participants answered questions related to socio-demographics, the Mini-mental State Examination, the intensity of grandchildren care, the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale, and social activity.

Results

The results showed that caring for grandchildren and cohabiting with a spouse was positively associated with cognitive function among Chinese middle-aged and older adults (B = 0.829, p < 0.001). Furthermore, there was a positive association between providing intensive or no-intensive grandchildren care and cognitive function. In contrast, caring for grandchildren but not cohabiting with a spouse was negatively associated with cognitive function (B = −0.545, p < 0.05). Moreover, directly and indirectly, caring for grandchildren was significantly associated with cognitive function among Chinese middle-aged and older adults, as mediated by social activities and depressive symptoms.

Discussion

The findings emphasize that living arrangements, social engagement, and psychological health could be considered when encouraging grandparent care as formal care.
Changes in prescription drug abuse during the COVID-19 pandemic evidenced in the Catalan pharmacies
Authors: Perelló Maria , Rio-Aige Karla , Rius Pilar , Bagaría Guillermo , Jambrina Anna M. , Gironès Montse , Pérez-Cano Francisco José , Rabanal Manel
Published: February 2023

Introduction

The impact of a pandemic on the mental health of the population is to be expected due to risk factors such as social isolation. Prescription drug abuse and misuse could be an indicator of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health. Community pharmacists play an important role in addressing prescription drug abuse by detecting signs and behaviors that give a clearer indication that a drug abuse problem exists.

Methods

A prospective observational study to observe prescription drug abuse was conducted from March 2020 to December 2021 to compare with data obtained in the previous 2 years, through the Medicine Abuse Observatory, the epidemiological surveillance system set up in Catalonia. Information was obtained through a validated questionnaire attached on a web-based system and data collection software. A total of 75 community pharmacies were enrolled in the program.

Results

The number of notifications during the pandemic period (11.8/100.000 inhabitants) does not indicate a significant change compared with those from pre-pandemic period, when it was 12.5/100.000 inhabitants. However, the number of notifications during the first wave when lockdown was in place stood at 6.1/100,000 inhabitants, significantly lower than in both the pre-pandemic and the whole of the pandemic periods. Regarding the patient's profile, it was observed that the proportion of younger patients (<25 and 25–35) rose in contrast to older ones (45–65 and >65). The use of benzodiazepines and fentanyl increased.

Conclusions

This study has made it possible to observe the impact of the pandemic caused by COVID-19 on the behavior of patients in terms of use of prescription drugs through analysis of the trends of abuse or misuse and by comparing them with the pre-pandemic period. Overall, the increased detection of benzodiazepines has pointed out stress and anxiety generated by the pandemic.
Latency-aware blockage prediction in vision-aided federated wireless networks
Authors: Khan Ahsan Raza , Ahmad Iftikhar , Mohjazi Lina , Hussain Sajjad , Rais Rao Naveed Bin , Imran Muhammad Ali , Zoha Ahmed
Published: February 2023

Introduction: The future wireless landscape is evolving rapidly to meet ever-increasing data requirements, which can be enabled using higher-frequency spectrums like millimetre waves (mmWaves) and terahertz (THz). However, mmWave and THztechnologies rely on line-of-sight (LOS) communication, making them sensitive to sudden environmental changes and higher mobility of users, especially in urban areas.

Methods: Therefore, beam blockage prediction is a critical challenge for sixth-generation (6G) wireless networks. One possible solution is to anticipate the potential change in the wireless network surroundings using multi-sensor data (wireless, vision, lidar, and GPS) with advanced deep learning (DL) and computer vision (CV) techniques. Despite numerous advantages, the fusion of deep learning,computer vision, and multi-modal data in centralised training introduces many challenges, including higher communication costs for raw data transfer, inefficient bandwidth usage and unacceptable latency. This work proposes latency-aware vision-aided federated wireless networks (VFWN) for beam blockage prediction using bimodal vision and wireless sensing data. The proposed framework usesdistributed learning on the edge nodes (EN) for data processing and model training.

Results and Discussion: This involves federated learning for global model aggregation that minimizes latency and data communication cost as compared to centralised learning while achieving comparable predictive accuracy. For instance, the VFWN achieves a predictive accuracy of 98.5%, which is comparable to centralised learning with overall predictive accuracy 99%, considering that no data sharing is done. Furthermore, the proposed framework significantly reduces the communication cost by 81.31% and latency by 6.77% using real-time on device processing and inference.
Fixed-time regulation of spacecraft orbit and attitude coordination with optimal actuation allocation using dual quaternion
Authors: Sun Lichao , Huang Yanpei , Fei Haolin , Xiao Bo , Yeatman Eric M. , Montazeri Allahyar , Wang Ziwei
Published: February 2023

On-orbit service spacecraft with redundant actuators need to overcome orbital and attitude coupling when performing proximity maneuvers. In addition, transient/steady-state performance is required to fulfill the user-defined requirements. To these ends, this paper introduces a fixed-time tracking regulation and actuation allocation scheme for redundantly actuated spacecraft. The coupling effect of translational and rotational motions is described by dual quaternion. Based on this, we propose a non-singular fast terminal sliding mode controller to guarantee fixed-time tracking performance in the presence of external disturbances and system uncertainties, where the settling time is only dependent on user-defined control parameters rather than initial values. The unwinding problem caused by the redundancy of dual quaternion is handled by a novel attitude error function. Moreover, optimal quadratic programming is incorporated into null space pseudo-inverse control allocation that ensures the actuation smoothness and never violates the maximum output capability of each actuator. Numerical simulations on a spacecraft platform with symmetric thruster configuration demonstrate the validity of the proposed approach.
Lung Transplantation for Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia and Kartagener Syndrome: A Multicenter Study
Authors: Marro Matteo , Leiva-Juárez Miguel M. , D’Ovidio Frank , Chan Justin , Van Raemdonck Dirk , Ceulemans Laurens Joseph , Moreno Paula , Kindelan Antonio Alvarez , Krueger Thorsten , Koutsokera Angela , Ehrsam Jonas Peter , Inci Ilhan , Yazicioglu Alkin , Yekeler Erdal , Boffini Massimo , Brioude Geoffrey , Thomas Pascal Alexandre , Pizanis Nikolaus , Aigner Clemens , Schiavon Marco , Rea Federico , Anile Marco , Venuta Federico , Keshavjee Shaf
Published: February 2023

Primary ciliary dyskinesia, with or without situs abnormalities, is a rare lung disease that can lead to an irreversible lung damage that may progress to respiratory failure. Lung transplant can be considered in end-stage disease. This study describes the outcomes of the largest lung transplant population for PCD and for PCD with situs abnormalities, also identified as Kartagener’s syndrome. Retrospectively collected data of 36 patients who underwent lung transplantation for PCD from 1995 to 2020 with or without SA as part of the European Society of Thoracic Surgeons Lung Transplantation Working Group on rare diseases. Primary outcomes of interest included survival and freedom from chronic lung allograft dysfunction. Secondary outcomes included primary graft dysfunction within 72 h and the rate of rejection ≥A2 within the first year. Among PCD recipients with and without SA, the mean overall and CLAD-free survival were 5.9 and 5.2 years with no significant differences between groups in terms of time to CLAD (HR: 0.92, 95% CI: 0.27–3.14, p = 0.894) or mortality (HR: 0.45, 95% CI: 0.14–1.43, p = 0.178). Postoperative rates of PGD were comparable between groups; rejection grades ≥A2 on first biopsy or within the first year was more common in patients with SA. This study provides a valuable insight on international practices of lung transplantation in patients with PCD. Lung transplantation is an acceptable treatment option in this population.
Analysis and Validation of Sensitivity in Torque-Sensitive Actuators
Authors: Tran Minh , Gabert Lukas , Lenzi Tommaso
Published: February 2023

Across different fields within robotics, there is a great need for lightweight, efficient actuators with human-like performance. Linkage-based passive variable transmissions and torque-sensitive transmissions have emerged as promising solutions to meet this need by significantly increasing actuator efficiency and power density, but their modeling and analysis remain an open research topic. In this paper, we introduce the sensitivity between input displacement and output torque as a key metric to analyze the performance of these complex mechanisms in dynamic tasks. We present the analytical model of sensitivity in the context of two different torque-sensitive transmission designs, and used this sensitivity metric to analyze the differences in their performance. Experiments with these designs implemented within a powered knee prosthesis were conducted, and results validated the sensitivity model as well as its role in predicting actuators’ dynamic performance. Together with other design methods, sensitivity analysis is a valuable tool for designers to systematically analyze and create transmission systems capable of human-like physical behavior.
Development and Calibration of a Three-Directional High-Energy Particle Detector for FY-3E Satellite
Authors: Shen Guohong , Zhang Xiaoxin , Wang Jinhua , Huang Cong , Li Jiawei , Zhang Shenyi , Zhang Xianguo , Yang Yong , Zhang Pengfei , Sun Yueqiang
Published: February 2023

According to the characteristics of the LEO space particles radiation environment of China’s Fengyun No. 3 (FY-3) polar-orbiting meteorological satellites, in order to monitor the characteristics, and space–time distribution of charged particle radiation in the orbit space, it is proposed to install a three-directional high-energy particle detector (HEPD) in the three vertical orthogonal directions of FY-3E, so as to carry out the energy spectrum and flux observation of high-energy protons and electrons in the three directions of the satellite, namely, −X, +Y, and −Z. The on-orbit detection data acquired by these payloads can be used for space environment modeling and solar-terrestrial physics research, and provide data sources for operational space environment weather warning and forecasting. Through the ground accelerator calibration experiment and simulation analysis of the three-directional HEPDs developed in the flight model phase, the experimental results show that all the HEPDs’ measured values meet the requirements for technical indexes, such as the detection energy range (high-energy protons: 3–300 MeV; high-energy electrons: 0.15–5.7 MeV), energy span accuracy (<15%), flux accuracy (<15%), and sensitivity (<5% (ΔN/N)).
Comparing Simulated Jujube Evapotranspiration from P–T, Dual Kc, and S–W Models against Measurements Using a Large Weighing Lysimeter under Drip Irrigation in an Arid Area
Authors: Ai Pengrui , Ma Yingjie , Hai Ying
Published: February 2023

Accurate prediction of orchard evapotranspiration (ET) can optimize orchard water management. Based on the jujube (Zizyphus jujuba), ET was continuously measured from 2016 to 2019 using a large weighing lysimeter; the actual jujube ET was compared with the ET simulated with the Priestley–Taylor (P–T), Dual Crop Coefficient (Dual Kc), and Shuttleworth–Wallace (S–W) models, to verify the accuracy of the three models. The results showed that, from 2016 to 2019, the whole growth period of jujube ET was 532–592 mm and the crop coefficient was 0.85–0.93. The basal crop coefficients of the calibrated Dual Kc model were 0.4, 1.0, and 0.5 at the initial, middle, and ending growth stages, respectively. The overall simulation error of the Dual Kc model was low, and simulations were stable during the four years of the study. However, because of rough estimation the water stress coefficient (Ks) simulation accuracy will be reduced in the case of serious water shortage. The simulation error of the S–W model was greater than the simulation error of the Dual Kc model, and the simulations were unstable and vulnerable to interannual changes. The simulation error of the traditional P–T model was large. When the parameter “α” solution method was improved, the simulation accuracy was significantly improved, and the P–T model’s simulation accuracy was only slightly lower than that of the Dual Kc model. However, the model was easily affected by changes in net radiation and air temperature. Therefore, the Dual Kc model is recommended for estimating the ET of young jujube trees in arid areas.
Use of Geostatistics as a Tool to Study Spatial-Temporal Dynamics of Leucoptera coffeella in Coffee Crops
Authors: Walerius Adriana H. , Pallini Angelo , Venzon Madelaine , Santana Júnior Paulo A. , Costa Thiago L. , Paes Jhersyka da S. , Pimentel Emílio de S. , Picanço Marcelo C.
Published: February 2023

Coffee is considered one of the most important commercial commodities globally, and in 2020, it moved to a global market of USD 102.02 billion. However, the attack of pests in coffee production can cause significant economic losses. Leucoptera coffeella is a critical pest in coffee-producing countries, with productivity losses reaching 87%. The knowledge of the spatial distribution patterns of L. coffeella is essential to developing an efficient sampling and control plan. Moreover, it allows us to target for control specific locations/seasons where L. coffeella occurrence is at its highest density before reaching the economic injury level. Therefore, our objective in this study was to determine the spatial distribution of L. coffeella in coffee crops through geostatistical analysis. Data on the population density of L. coffeella were collected over four years on a farm with 18 center pivots located in the Brazilian Cerrado. The presence of L. coffeella was recorded in all 18 pivots during the entire time of the study (2016 to 2020). The highest densities were from July to November. These high densities of L. coffeella positively correlated with maximum air temperatures and wind speed. It was also verified to negatively correlate with minimum air temperatures and rainfall. The surrounding vegetation does not affect the pest densities. The pest hotspots appeared in different pivots and different locations inside pivots. Furthermore, L. coffeella showed an aggregated distribution pattern. For three years, the colonization started at the edge of the crop. The sampling should be performed equidistant as the pest is distributed equally in all directions. The information found in this study provides valuable information to initiate timely management and control methods in coffee crops with a high incidence of L. coffeella, thus reducing production costs and the harmful effects of pesticide use.
Growth of Hydroponic Sweet Basil (O. basilicum L.) Using Plasma-Activated Nutrient Solution (PANS)
Authors: Date Manasi B. , Rivero W. C. , Tan Juzhong , Specca David , Simon James E. , Salvi Deepti A. , Karwe Mukund V.
Published: February 2023

Hydroponic sweet basil (O. basilicum L.) farming uses a recirculating nutrient solution that may spread waterborne microbial contamination including algae. Plasma, the fourth state of matter, generates antimicrobial reactive oxygen and nitrogen species when exposed to water. The objective of this work was to study the effect of plasma-treated water-based nutrient solution on plant growth and in reduction of algae. Basil plants were grown in isolated ebb and flow hydroponic systems (under monitored environmental conditions) using nutrient solution (NS) and plasma-activated nutrient solution (PANS) with two separate treatments: the same irrigation solutions were used in the growth cycle (Treatment 1: NST1 and PANST1 once at the beginning growth cycle) and new irrigation solutions at every week of the growth cycle (Treatment 2: NST2 and PANST2). The plant growth parameters (height, fresh and dry weight, number of branches and nodes, root length, leaf index), quality parameters (color, texture, aroma, and tissue nutrients concentration), and algae concentrations were measured. Compared to NST1, plants grown on PANST1 were significantly taller (up to 12%), had a higher fresh mass (up to 29%) and dry mass (up to 45%), and had a higher greenness value (up to 28%). Algae growth was significantly reduced in the PANST2 reservoir (up to 24%) compared to the NST2 reservoir. It was confirmed that Treatment 1 significantly improved the yield, morphology, and quality of sweet basil plants, while Treatment 2 was best suited to decreasing algae concentration in the hydroponic environment. This preliminary study indicated that PANS could improve the quality and growth of sweet basil in hydroponic farming while controlling the algae growth in the growing environment.
Biomass and Methane Production in Double Cereal Cropping Systems with Different Winter Cereal and Maize Plant Densities
Authors: Blandino Massimo , Scapino Mattia , Rollè Luca , Dinuccio Elio , Reyneri Amedeo
Published: February 2023

The biogas supply chain requires a correct combination of crops to maximize the methane yield per hectare. Field trials were carried out in North Italy over three growing seasons, according to a factorial combination of four cropping systems (maize as a sole-crop or after hybrid barley, triticale and wheat) and two maize plant densities (standard, 7.5 plants m−2 and high, 10 plants m−2) with the plants harvested as whole-crop silage. The specific methane production per ton was measured through the biochemical methane potential (BMP) method, while the methane yield per hectare was calculated on the basis of the BMP results and considering the biomass yield. The average methane yield of wheat resulted to be equal to 4550 Nm3 ha−1, and +17% and +28% higher than triticale and barley, respectively, according to the biomass yield. A delay in maize sowing reduced the yield potential of this crop; the biomass of maize grown after barley, triticale and wheat was 20%, 33% and 47% lower, respectively, than maize cultivated as a single crop. The high plant population increased the biomass yield in the sole-crop maize (+23%) and in the maize grown after barley (+20%), compared to the standard density. The highest biomass (32 t ha−1 DM) and methane yield (9971 Nm3 ha−1) within the cropping systems were obtained for barley followed by maize at a high plant density. This cropping system increased the methane yield by 46% and 18%, respectively, compared to the sole-crop maize or maize after triticale at a standard density. The smaller amount of available solar radiation, resulting from the later sowing of maize, reduced the advantage related to the application of a high plant density.
Influence of Polyamines on Red Beet (Beta vulgaris L. ssp. vulgaris) Gynogenesis
Authors: Kiszczak Waldemar , Kowalska Urszula , Burian Maria , Podwyszyńska Małgorzata , Górecka Krystyna
Published: February 2023

The influence of polyamines (PAs), putrescine (Put) and spermidine (Spd) on the efficiency of gynogenesis in ovule cultures of red beet (syn. beetroot) (Beta vulgaris L. vulgaris) cultivar “Czerwona Kula” and breeding accessions no. 3/2010 and no. 7/2008 was investigated. The effect of Put on the process of plant regeneration from gynogenetic embryos was studied. The response to the applied PAs was strongly dependent on the genotype. In “Czerwona Kula”, an increase in the number of obtained embryos was achieved by using each of the two PAs in the B5 medium. The effect of Spd was stronger. Put added to the regeneration medium at the concentration of 0.5 mg L−1 increased the number of obtained plants. All shoots placed on the rooting medium supplemented with 160 mg L−1 Put formed roots. The distribution of ploidy and homozygosity of gynogenetic plants depended on the genotype. Of the tested genotypes, the highest number of haploid plants, 68%, was obtained in red beet “Czerwona Kula”. The highest percentage of homozygotes, 69% for the glucose phosphate isomerase (GPI, E.C.5.3.1.9) isoenzyme and 100% for the aspartate aminotransferase (AAT, E.C.2.6.1.1) isoenzyme, was obtained in the population of gynogenetic plants of cultivar “Czerwona Kula”.
Evaluation of a Real-Time Monitoring and Management System of Soybean Precision Seed Metering Devices
Authors: Zhang Jicheng , Hou Yinghui , Ji Wenyi , Zheng Ping , Yan Shichao , Hou Shouyin , Cai Changqing
Published: February 2023

Aiming at precise evaluation of the performance of soybean seed metering devices, a photoelectric sensor-based real-time monitoring system was designed. The proposed system mainly included a photoelectric sensor module for seeding signal collecting, Hall sensors speeding module, microcontroller unit (MCU), light and sound alarm module, human–machine interface (HMI), and other parts. The indexes of miss, multiples, flow rate, and application rate were estimated on the basis of seeder speed, seed metering disk rotation rate, photoelectric sensor signals, and clock signals. These real-time statistics of the seeding process were recorded by seeding management system. The laboratory results showed that the detection errors of seeding quantity of both big- and small-diameter soybeans were less than 2.0%. Miss and multiples index estimated by this system were 0.4% and 0.5% than that of seeding image monitoring platform (SIMP), respectively. In field tests, miss and multiples index can be used to evaluate the performance of seed metering device, and big-diameter seeds can be detected more precisely than small ones by these photoelectric sensors. This system can provide support for evaluation of working performance of seed metering devices and have a positive effect on seeding monitoring technology.
Using a Portable Autostereoscopic Screen to Improve Anatomy Teaching and Learning
Authors: Otoo Elsa-Marie A. , Leibowitz Hannah , Wong Oliver , Rhode Kawal
Published: February 2023

Conventional anatomical models and cadaveric specimens can be time-consuming and resource intensive for any anatomical institute. In recent years, there has been a push for more flexible and varied approaches to teaching, including problem-based and computer-aided learning, which includes web-based anatomical models or the use of three-dimensional visualization technology. With advances in hardware, autostereoscopic (AS) 3D screens have become more affordable, portable, and accessible to individuals, not just institutes. At King’s College London (KCL), we developed the Virtual Anatomy and Histology (VAH) platform—an online resource which focuses on perspective volumetric 3D viewing of medical scan data and 3D models to facilitate the online teaching and learning of anatomy. This paper presents the features of VAH and details a study that was conducted in 2022, to evaluate the VAH 3D AS viewer configured with The Looking Glass Portrait (TLG) (Looking Glass, New York, NY, USA) 8-inch AS display. We tested the hypothesis that using an AS display can improve spatial understanding of cardiovascular anatomy. A cardiovascular 3D textured model was used from our gallery to carry out a spatial test. Twenty current healthcare students at King’s participated in the study and completed a structured questionnaire. Results showed that 47.6% and 52.4% of participants agreed and strongly agreed, respectively, that identifying anatomical structures was easier in 3D compared to 2D. Qualitative feedback was positive as most students found King’s VAH and TLG display “useful for people who need help with spatial understanding” and that “it was a good tool to test your anatomical knowledge”. In conclusion, based on the quantitative results and feedback, we are optimistic that King’s VAH and portable AS displays can be beneficial in anatomy education. With the increasing availability of such systems and competitive pricing, this technology is likely to have a significant impact in education in coming years.
Robot Technology for Pork and Beef Meat Slaughtering Process: A Review
Authors: Kim Juntae , Kwon Yun-Kil , Kim Hyoun-Wook , Seol Kuk-Hwan , Cho Byoung-Kwan
Published: February 2023

Recently, many slaughterhouses have begun to introduce automation and quality evaluation sensing equipment to the slaughter processing line to overcome insufficient human resources, improve the efficiency of the slaughter process, and standardize meat quality. Various processing instruments and sensing technologies may be used depending on the livestock to be slaughtered, but a standardized process design for a smart slaughterhouse remains to be established. Slaughterhouses are becoming more industrialized, leveraging data collection and analysis to drive growth and increase production. Therefore, slaughterhouse automation is essential for meeting production demand, and an optimized design suitable for the size of each company is required to maximize economical equipment and systems. We introduce robot technology used in the slaughterhouse and detail the visceral laparotomy, carcass preprocessing, and deboning robot technology. In this study, we examine slaughterhouse automation equipment and technologies, focusing on optimizing the processing lines, the direction of application, and the hygiene of robot technique. We hope this review will provide insight into slaughterhouse automation for decision making in the slaughter industry.
Effect of Glutamine on the Growth Performance, Oxidative Stress, and Nrf2/p38 MAPK Expression in the Livers of Heat-Stressed Broilers
Authors: Bai Xi , Wang Kunping , Khan Rifat Ullah , Zhang Cheng , Hu Hong
Published: February 2023

The purpose of this work was to study the effects of glutamine (Gln) on the growth performance, oxidative stress, Nrf2, and p38 MAPK pathway in the livers of heat-stressed broilers. In total, 300 broilers were divided into five groups, including a normal temperature (NT, without dietary Gln) group and four cyclic high temperature groups (HT, GHT1, GHT2, and GHT3) fed with 0%, 0.5%, 1.0%, and 1.5% Gln, respectively. High temperature conditions increased (p < 0.05) liver malonaldehyde (MDA) concentration, but decreased (p < 0.05), body weight gain (BWG), feed intake (FI), liver superoxide dismutase (SOD), total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), glutathione S-transferase (GST), and glutathione (GSH) levels in broilers. Nrf2 and p38 MAPK protein and mRNA expression levels were lower (p < 0.05) in the NT group than that in the HT group. However, dietary 1.5% Gln decreased (p < 0.05) liver MDA concentration, but increased (p < 0.05) BWG, FI, liver SOD, T-AOC, GSH-Px, GST, and GSH levels in heat-stressed broilers. Nrf2 and p38 MAPK protein and mRNA expression levels were higher (p < 0.05) in the GHT3 group than that in the HT group. In summary, Gln improved oxidative damage through the activation of Nrf2 and p38 MAPK expression in the livers of heat-stressed broilers.
Treatment of Inactive Ovaries of Holstein Dairy Cows by Epidural Injection of GnRH Analogue (Receptal) and Its Impact on the Reproductive Hormones, Oxidant/Antioxidant Profile and Micro and Macro-Elements Profile
Authors: Amin Yahia , Mahmoud Alaa , Ali Rana , Fouad Samer , Shanab Obeid , Ibrahim Rawia , Farrag Foad , Shukry Mustafa , Ibrahim Samah , Fericean Liana , Mohamed Ragab
Published: February 2023

This study was designed to evaluate a new therapeutic approach for inactive ovaries based on the epidural administration of a GnRH agonist (Receptal) and an investigation of the impact of this treatment on the hormonal, oxidant/antioxidant and micro- and macro-element profiles. Sixty cows with postpartum anestrus were divided into two groups: the first group (group Repid, n = 30) was administered an epidural injection of Receptal, while the second group (group Cepid, n = 30) received saline and was considered the control group. Evaluation of hormonal (progesterone, FSH, LH, testosterone, and cortisol), oxidant/antioxidant (MDA, SOD, GPx and TAC) as well as micro- and macroelement (calcium, phosphorus, manganese and magnesium) profiles was done in serum. The results showed that the epidural injection of Receptal has the potential to induce estrus response and conception incidence in treated cows. Compared to the control group, progesterone, FSH, and LH concentrations were significantly increased in the treated group, whereas testosterone and cortisol decreased (p < 0.05) following treatment. In addition, the treated group had greater TAC and GPx concentrations than the control group. Serum concentrations of magnesium increased (p < 0.05) following receptal treatment, but differences in other minerals were not detected. This research suggests a novel, effective method of treating inactive ovaries with epidural infusion of a GnRH agonist.
Dietary Preferences of Loggerhead Sea Turtles (Caretta caretta) in Two Mediterranean Feeding Grounds: Does Prey Selection Change with Habitat Use throughout Their Life Cycle?
Authors: Mariani Giulia , Bellucci Fabio , Cocumelli Cristiano , Raso Caterina , Hochscheid Sandra , Roncari Chiara , Nerone Eliana , Recchi Sara , Di Giacinto Federica , Olivieri Vincenzo , Pulsoni Simone , Matiddi Marco , Silvestri Cecilia , Ferri Nicola , Renzo Ludovica Di
Published: February 2023

According to their life stage, the loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) is found in a wide range of habitats, from neritic to more oceanic areas. Their feeding habits are expected to change as they develop, along with habitat use. Juvenile sea turtles are hypothesized to feed on pelagic species in oceanic areas, shifting to more benthic prey during the subadult and adult stages. We analyzed the gastrointestinal content from 150 loggerhead sea turtles stranded and/or bycaught along the Adriatic coast of the Abruzzo and Molise regions (n = 89) and the Tyrrhenian coast of the Lazio and Campania regions (n = 61) from 2018 to 2021. Food items were identified to the lowest taxonomic level, and the frequency of occurrence was calculated for each taxon and most recurrent species to assess changes in prey selection during the development. The marine litter was categorized, and the frequency of occurrence was calculated for the ingestion of litter. The most recurrent taxonomic prey group recorded in the Adriatic sample was Arthropoda (94%), followed by Mollusca (63%) and Chordata (34%). In the Tyrrhenian sample, loggerhead sea turtles fed mostly on Mollusca (84%), Arthropoda (38%), and Chordata (26%). Surprisingly, the Adriatic-Tyrrhenian sample groups showed similar feeding behavior between juveniles, subadults, and adults. A similar correlation has been observed concerning the ingestion of litter. Moreover, this study confirms the opportunistic feeding behavior of loggerhead sea turtles and their high adaptability.
Razorbills Alca torda in Italian Seas: A Massive Irruption of Historical Relevance and Role of Social Network Monitoring
Authors: Balestrieri Rosario , Vento Roberto , Viviano Andrea , Mori Emiliano , Gili Claudia , Monti Flavio
Published: February 2023

Reporting on uncommon wide animal movements could help in depicting potential carry-over effects at the population level, particularly in an era of rapid climate and environmental changes. The razorbill (Alca torda, Linnaeus 1758) is a regular passage migrant and winter visitor to Italian seas, but with sporadic presences usually involving small numbers of individuals. Irruptions have been occasionally documented, with the last records of an unusually large number dating back to 1982. However, in the past, irruptions have only been locally reported and poorly described. Here we report on an unprecedented massive irruption of hundreds of razorbills which occurred in the central Mediterranean Sea in November-December 2022. Using citizen science platforms and photos/videos shared on social networking sites (SNSs), we estimated the relative magnitude of the irruption and described the spatial distribution of birds at sea, as well as report cases of stranded individuals. We collected a total of 267 records, both from Italy and from neighboring countries. We also discuss the likely factors affecting razorbill irruption and stress the importance of open social platforms and data sharing to aid in the early detection and estimation of such events at a wide-scale, as well as for the monitoring of the mortality of the irrupted species.
A Carnitine-Containing Product Improves Aspects of Post-Exercise Recovery in Adult Horses
Authors: Johnson Sally E. , Barshick Madison R. , Gonzalez Madison L. , Riley Julia Wells , Pelletier Megan E. , Castanho Beatriz C. , Ealy Elayna N.
Published: February 2023

Strenuous exercise can cause tissue damage, leading to an extended recovery period. To counteract delayed post-exercise recovery, a commercial product containing L-carnitine (AID) was tested in adult horses performing consecutive exercise tests to exhaustion. Fit Thoroughbreds were administered an oral bolus of placebo (CON) or AID prior to performing an exercise test to exhaustion (D1). The heart rate (HR) and fetlock kinematics were captured throughout the exercise test. Blood was collected before, 10 min and 1, 4 and 6 h relative to exercise for the quantification of cytokine (IL1β, IL8, IL10, TNFa) gene expression and lactate concentration. Horses performed a second exercise test 48 h later (D2), with all biochemical and physiological measures repeated. The results demonstrate that the horses receiving AID retained a greater (p < 0.05) amount of flexion in the front fetlock on D2 than the horses given CON. The horses presented a reduced (p < 0.05) rate of HR decline on D2 compared to that on D1. The expression of IL1β, IL8 and IL10 increased at 1 h post-exercise on D1 and returned to baseline by 6 h; the cytokine expression pattern was not duplicated on D2. These results provide evidence of disrupted cytokine expression, HR recovery and joint mobility in response to consecutive bouts of exhaustive exercise. Importantly, AID may accelerate recovery through an undetermined mechanism.
Correction: Jensen et al. Prior Antibiotic Use Increases Risk of Urinary Tract Infections Caused by Resistant Escherichia coli among Elderly in Primary Care: A Case-Control Study. Antibiotics 2022, 11, 1382
Authors: Jensen Maria L. V. , Siersma Volkert , Søes Lillian M. , Nicolaisdottir Dagny , Bjerrum Lars , Holzknecht Barbara J.
Published: February 2023

In the original publication [...]
Effect-Directed, Chemical and Taxonomic Profiling of Peppermint Proprietary Varieties and Corresponding Leaf Extracts
Authors: Inarejos-Garcia Antonio M. , Heil Julia , Martorell Patricia , Álvarez Beatriz , Llopis Silvia , Helbig Ines , Liu Jie , Quebbeman Bryon , Nemeth Tim , Holmgren Deven , Morlock Gertrud E.
Published: February 2023

During the development of novel, standardized peppermint extracts targeting functional applications, it is critical to adequately characterize raw material plant sources to assure quality and consistency of the end-product. This study aimed to characterize existing and proprietary, newly bred varieties of peppermint and their corresponding aqueous extract products. Taxonomy was confirmed through genetic authenticity assessment. Non-target effect-directed profiling was developed using high-performance thin-layer chromatography–multi-imaging–effect-directed assays (HPTLC–UV/Vis/FLD–EDA). Results demonstrated substantial differences in compounds associated with functional attributes, notably antioxidant potential, between the peppermint samples. Further chemical analysis by high-performance liquid chromatography–photodiode array/mass spectrometry detection (HPLC–PDA/MS) and headspace solid-phase microextraction–gas chromatography–flame ionization/MS detection (headspace SPME–GC–FID/MS) confirmed compositional differences. A broad variability in the contents of flavonoids and volatiles was observed. The peppermint samples were further screened for their antioxidant potential using the Caenorhabditis elegans model, and the results indicated concordance with observed content differences of the identified functional compounds. These results documented variability among raw materials of peppermint leaves, which can yield highly variable extract products that may result in differing effects on functional targets in vivo. Hence, product standardization via effect-directed profiles is proposed as an appropriate tool.