bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial heterogeneity of long-range dependence and self-similarity of global sea surface chlorophyll concentration with their environmental impact factors analysis
Authors: He Junyu , Gao Zekun , Jiang Yutong , Li Ming
Published: April 2024

Understanding the long-range dependence and self-similarity of global sea surface chlorophyll concentration (SSCC) will enrich its characteristics description and analysis with global change patterns. The satellite SSCC products were collected from the European Space Agency during the period from 29 July 1998 to 31 December2020. After resampling the SSCC products into the spatial resolution of 1°, the missing values were interpolated by Bayesian maximum entropy with mean absolute error of cross validation equaling to 0.1295 mg/m3. Generalized Cauchy model was employed to quantitatively determine the long-range dependence and self-similarity of SSCC at a global scale by using the Hurst parameter and fractal dimension. Good fitted results were achieved with an averaged R2 of 0.9141 and a standard deviation of 0.0518 across the 32,281 spatial locations of the entire ocean; the averaged values of Hurst parameter and fractal dimension were 0.8667 and 1.2506, respectively, suggesting strong long-range dependence and weak self-similarity of SSCC in the entire oceans. Univariate and multivariate generalized addictive models (GAM) were introduced to depict the influence of sea surface height anomaly, sea surface salinity, sea surface temperature and sea surface wind on the Hurst parameter and fractal dimension of SSCC; and smaller mean absolute error were achieved for the GAM of Hurst parameter than that of fractal dimension. Sea surface height anomaly showed the strongest influence for the Hurst parameter than the other three factors, and sea surface wind depicted similar influence; the sea surface temperature owned opposite influence on Hurst parameter compared to sea surface salinity.
Investigating the properties of octane isomers by novel neighborhood product degree-based topological indices
Authors: Rasheed Muhammad Waheed , Mahboob Abid , Hanif Iqra
Published: April 2024

A topological index is a real number calculated from the structure of a chemical compound to describe its topology. The use of molecular descriptors has been increasing in recent years, helping to determine the physicochemical and biological properties of drugs. The main purpose of this article is to investigate the properties of the octane isomers using the theoretical method. To study the structures of octane isomers, we have introduced a new approach called “neighborhood product degree” to calculate all the classical degree-based topological indices. The np-degree approach is applied to approximate eight properties of octane isomers, such as the acentric factor, density, refractive index, critical volume, molar volume, radius of curvature, critical pressure, and LogP. The np-degree-based topological indices are the estimated values of the properties of octane structures, so the linear and quadratic regression models and correlation coefficients are applied to check the validity of the estimated results. The quantitative structure property relation are obtained by using the linear, quadratic, exponential, logarithmic and sinusoidal regression methods with the help of SPSS. Two models are applied to all the compuations and three regression models are applied to the np-degree Randic index. The computation showed that quadratic regression model is suitable for study octane isomers and np-degree based graph invariants. If the values of the correlation coefficient r ⩾ 0.7, p-values ⩽ 0.05, and F-values ⩾ 2.5, then the results are significant. The results of np-degree-based topological indices satisfy all the criteria for being significant, so these newly introduced indices are valid to study octane isomers. The information determined in this article is beneficial for chemists and pharmacists.
Histological analysis of the medial gastrocnemius muscle in young healthy children
Authors: Andries Anke , Deschrevel Jorieke , Maes Karen , De Beukelaer Nathalie , Corvelyn Marlies , Staut Lauraine , De Houwer Hannah , Costamagna Domiziana , Nijs Stefaan , Metsemakers Willem-Jan , Nijs Elga , Hens Greet , De Wachter Eva , Prinsen Sandra , Desloovere Kaat , Van Campenhout Anja , Gayan-Ramirez Ghislaine
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Histological data on muscle fiber size and proportion in (very) young typically developing (TD) children is not well documented and data on capillarization and satellite cell content are also lacking.

Aims: This study investigated the microscopic properties of the medial gastrocnemius muscle in growing TD children, grouped according to age and gender to provide normal reference values in healthy children.

Methods: Microbiopsies of the medial gastrocnemius (MG) muscle were collected in 46 TD boys and girls aged 2–10 years subdivided into 4 age groups (2–4, 4–6, 6–8 and 8–10 years). Sections were immunostained to assess fiber type cross-sectional area (fCSA) and proportion, the number of satellite cells (SC), capillary to fiber ratio (C/F), capillary density for type I and II fiber (CFD), capillary domain, capillary-to-fiber perimeter exchange index (CFPE) and heterogeneity index. fCSA was normalized to fibula length2 and the coefficient of variation (CV) was calculated to reflect fCSA intrasubject variability.

Results: Absolute fCSA of all fibers increased with age (r = 0.72, p < 0.001) but more in boys (+112%, p < 0.05) than in girls (+48%, p > 0.05) Normalized fCSA, CV and fiber proportion did not differ between age groups and gender. C/F was strongly correlated with age in boys (r = 0.83, p < 0.001), and to a lesser extent in girls (r = 0.37, p = 0.115), while other capillary parameters as well as the number of SC remained stable with increasing age in boys and girls.

Discussion: This study provides reference values of histological measures in MG according to age in normally growing boys and girls. These data may be used as a reference to determine disease impact and efficacy of therapeutic approach on the muscle.
Mapping QTLs for blight resistance and morpho-phenological traits in inter-species hybrid families of chestnut (Castanea spp.)
Authors: Fan Shenghua , Georgi Laura L. , Hebard Frederick V. , Zhebentyayeva Tetyana , Yu Jiali , Sisco Paul H. , Fitzsimmons Sara F. , Staton Margaret E. , Abbott Albert G. , Nelson C. Dana
Published: April 2024

Chestnut blight (caused by Cryphonectria parasitica), together with Phytophthora root rot (caused by Phytophthora cinnamomi), has nearly extirpated American chestnut (Castanea dentata) from its native range. In contrast to the susceptibility of American chestnut, many Chinese chestnut (C. mollissima) genotypes are resistant to blight. In this research, we performed a series of genome-wide association studies for blight resistance originating from three unrelated Chinese chestnut trees (Mahogany, Nanking and M16) and a Quantitative Trait Locus (QTL) study on a Mahogany-derived inter-species F2 family. We evaluated trees for resistance to blight after artificial inoculation with two fungal strains and scored nine morpho-phenological traits that are the hallmarks of species differentiation between American and Chinese chestnuts. Results support a moderately complex genetic architecture for blight resistance, as 31 QTLs were found on 12 chromosomes across all studies. Additionally, although most morpho-phenological trait QTLs overlap or are adjacent to blight resistance QTLs, they tend to aggregate in a few genomic regions. Finally, comparison between QTL intervals for blight resistance and those previously published for Phytophthora root rot resistance, revealed five common disease resistance regions on chromosomes 1, 5, and 11. Our results suggest that it will be difficult, but still possible to eliminate Chinese chestnut alleles for the morpho-phenological traits while achieving relatively high blight resistance in a backcross hybrid tree. We see potential for a breeding scheme that utilizes marker-assisted selection early for relatively large effect QTLs followed by genome selection in later generations for smaller effect genomic regions.
Genome-wide characterization of TCP family and their potential roles in abiotic stress resistance of oat (Avena sativa L.)
Authors: Pan Jing , Ju Zeliang , Ma Xiang , Duan Lianxue , Jia Zhifeng
Published: April 2024

The TCP gene family members play multiple functions in plant growth and development and were named after the first three family members found in this family, TB1 (TEOSINTE BRANCHED 1), CYCLOIDEA (CYC), and Proliferating Cell Factor 1/2 (PCF1/2). Nitrogen (N) is a crucial element for forage yield; however, over-application of N fertilizer can increase agricultural production costs and environmental stress. Therefore, the discovery of low N tolerance genes is essential for the genetic improvement of superior oat germplasm and ecological protection. Oat (Avena sativa L.), is one of the world’s staple grass forages, but no genome-wide analysis of TCP genes and their roles in low-nitrogen stress has been performed. This study identified the oat TCP gene family members using bioinformatics techniques. It analyzed their phylogeny, gene structure analysis, and expression patterns. The results showed that the AsTCP gene family includes 49 members, and most of the AsTCP-encoded proteins are neutral or acidic proteins; the phylogenetic tree classified the AsTCP gene family members into three subfamilies, and each subfamily has different conserved structural domains and functions. In addition, multiple cis-acting elements were detected in the promoter of the AsTCP genes, which were associated with abiotic stress, light response, and hormone response. The 49 AsTCP genes identified from oat were unevenly distributed on 18 oat chromosomes. The results of real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) showed that the AsTCP genes had different expression levels in various tissues under low nitrogen stress, which indicated that these genes (such as AsTCP01, AsTCP03, AsTCP22, and AsTCP38) played multiple roles in the growth and development of oat. In conclusion, this study analyzed the AsTCP gene family and their potential functions in low nitrogen stress at the genome-wide level, which lays a foundation for further analysis of the functions of AsTCP genes in oat and provides a theoretical basis for the exploration of excellent stress tolerance genes in oat. This study provides an essential basis for future in-depth studies of the TCP gene family in other oat genera and reveals new research ideas to improve gene utilization.
The hidden structure of consciousness
Authors: Forti Bruno
Published: April 2024

According to Loorits, if we want consciousness to be explained in terms of natural sciences, we should be able to analyze its seemingly non-structural aspects, like qualia, in structural terms. However, the studies conducted over the last three decades do not seem to be able to bridge the explanatory gap between physical phenomena and phenomenal experience. One possible way to bridge the explanatory gap is to seek the structure of consciousness within consciousness itself, through a phenomenal analysis of the qualitative aspects of experience. First, this analysis leads us to identify the explanandum concerning the simplest forms of experience not in qualia but in the unitary set of qualities found in early vision. Second, it leads us to hypothesize that consciousness is also made up of non-apparent parts, and that there exists a hidden structure of consciousness. This structure, corresponding to a simple early visual experience, is constituted by a Hierarchy of Spatial Belongings nested within each other. Each individual Spatial Belonging is formed by a primary content and a primary space. The primary content can be traced in the perceptibility of the contents we can distinguish in the phenomenal field. The primary space is responsible for the perceptibility of the content and is not perceptible in itself. However, the phenomenon I refer to as subtraction of visibility allows us to characterize it as phenomenally negative. The hierarchical relationships between Spatial Belongings can ensure the qualitative nature of components of perceptual organization, such as object, background, and detail. The hidden structure of consciousness presents aspects that are decidedly counterintuitive compared to our idea of phenomenal experience. However, on the one hand, the Hierarchy of Spatial Belongings can explain the qualities of early vision and their appearance as a unitary whole, while on the other hand, it might be more easily explicable in terms of brain organization. In other words, the hidden structure of consciousness can be considered a bridge structure which, placing itself at an intermediate level between experience and physical properties, can contribute to bridging the explanatory gap.
Intertemporal prosocial behavior: a review and research agenda
Authors: Persson Emil , Tinghög Gustav , Västfjäll Daniel
Published: April 2024

Research on intertemporal and prosocial decisions has largely developed in separate strands of literature. However, many of the decisions we make occur at the intersection of these two dimensions (intertemporal and prosocial). Trust is an example, where a decision today is made with the expectation that another person will reciprocate (or betray) later. A new literature is emerging to explore the role of time in these types of situations, where time and social considerations are intertwined. In many cases, time introduces (or magnifies) an element of uncertainty about future outcomes and utility that people need to deal with – what will happen, how good will it be, how will it feel. We review this emerging literature on intertemporal prosocial decision-making and discuss how new research can fill existing knowledge gaps.
Sex-difference in the association between social drinking, structural brain aging and cognitive function in older individuals free of cognitive impairment
Authors: Abulseoud Osama A. , Caparelli Elisabeth C. , Krell‐Roesch Janina , Geda Yonas E. , Ross Thomas J. , Yang Yihong
Published: April 2024

Background

We investigated a potential sex difference in the relationship between alcohol consumption, brain age gap and cognitive function in older adults without cognitive impairment from the population-based Mayo Clinic Study of Aging.

Methods

Self-reported alcohol consumption was collected using the food-frequency questionnaire. A battery of cognitive testing assessed performance in four different domains: attention, memory, language, and visuospatial. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was conducted using 3-T scanners (Signa; GE Healthcare). Brain age was estimated using the Brain-Age Regression Analysis and Computational Utility Software (BARACUS). We calculated the brain age gap as the difference between predicted brain age and chronological age.

Results

The sample consisted of 269 participants [55% men (n=148) and 45% women (n=121) with a mean age of 79.2 ± 4.6 and 79.5 ± 4.7 years respectively]. Women had significantly better performance compared to men in memory, (1.12 ± 0.87 vs 0.57 ± 0.89, P<0.0001) language (0.66 ± 0.8 vs 0.33 ± 0.72, P=0.0006) and attention (0.79 ± 0.87 vs 0.39 ± 0.83, P=0.0002) z-scores. Men scored higher in visuospatial skills (0.71 ± 0.91 vs 0.44 ± 0.90, P=0.016). Compared to participants who reported zero alcohol drinking (n=121), those who reported alcohol consumption over the year prior to study enrollment (n=148) scored significantly higher in all four cognitive domains [memory: F3,268 = 5.257, P=0.002, Language: F3,258 = 12.047, P<0.001, Attention: F3,260 = 22.036, P<0.001, and Visuospatial: F3,261 = 9.326, P<0.001] after correcting for age and years of education. In addition, we found a significant positive correlation between alcohol consumption and the brain age gap (P=0.03). Post hoc regression analysis for each sex with language z-score revealed a significant negative correlation between brain age gap and language z-scores in women only (P=0.008).

Conclusion

Among older adults who report alcohol drinking, there is a positive association between higher average daily alcohol consumption and accelerated brain aging despite the fact that drinkers had better cognitive performance compared to zero drinkers. In women only, accelerated brain aging is associated with worse performance in language cognitive domain. Older adult women seem to be vulnerable to the negative effects of alcohol on brain structure and on certain cognitive functions.
Exploring neurodegenerative disorders using advanced magnetic resonance imaging of the glymphatic system
Authors: Prasuhn Jannik , Xu Jiadi , Hua Jun , van Zijl Peter , Knutsson Linda
Published: April 2024

The glymphatic system, a macroscopic waste clearance system in the brain, is crucial for maintaining neural health. It facilitates the exchange of cerebrospinal and interstitial fluid, aiding the clearance of soluble proteins and metabolites and distributing essential nutrients and signaling molecules. Emerging evidence suggests a link between glymphatic dysfunction and the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s disease. These disorders are characterized by the accumulation and propagation of misfolded or mutant proteins, a process in which the glymphatic system is likely involved. Impaired glymphatic clearance could lead to the buildup of these toxic proteins, contributing to neurodegeneration. Understanding the glymphatic system’s role in these disorders could provide insights into their pathophysiology and pave the way for new therapeutic strategies. Pharmacological enhancement of glymphatic clearance could reduce the burden of toxic proteins and slow disease progression. Neuroimaging techniques, particularly MRI-based methods, have emerged as promising tools for studying the glymphatic system in vivo. These techniques allow for the visualization of glymphatic flow, providing insights into its function under healthy and pathological conditions. This narrative review highlights current MRI-based methodologies, such as motion-sensitizing pulsed field gradient (PFG) based methods, as well as dynamic gadolinium-based and glucose-enhanced methodologies currently used in the study of neurodegenerative disorders.
Caring for a child with cancer during COVID-19 pandemic: an assessment of the parents’ perception and stress level
Authors: Nawi Muhamad Aizat , Lau Sie Chong Doris , Chin Shi Tying , Teh Kok Hoi , Ho Lee Sue Betty , Alias Hamidah
Published: April 2024

Background

The emergence of COVID-19 pandemic has led to heightened fear and uncertainty among parents of children with cancer. This study was conducted to evaluate the parental perceptions toward effects of COVID-19 infection to children with cancer, determine their stress level and factors contributing to high stress level during the pandemic.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted in three paediatric oncology centres in Malaysia from September 2020 until December 2022. A total of 167 parents were recruited. Parents completed a set of questionnaires to assess their perception on effect of COVID-19 infection to children with cancer and COVID Stress Scale (CSS) to assess the parents’ stress level.

Results

Patients’ mean age at study entry was 8.75 years (SD 4.38). Ninety-one (54.5%) patients were still on active treatment. More than 80% of the parents obtained information regarding COVID-19 infection from mass media and social networking. Fear of their children contracting COVID-19 infection was high especially among patients who were still on treatment. Forty-nine (29.3%) parents were significantly affected by the pandemic leading to loss of job or monthly income. Twenty-nine (17.4%) patients required treatment modification during the pandemic. The median total score for CSS was 78.0 (IQR 25th 64.0; 75th 95.0). Ninety-one (54.5%) respondents were very/extremely stressed based on the CSS scores. Components with high scores were xenophobia (median score 18.0; IQR 25th 13.0, 75th 22.0), fear of danger (median score 17.0; IQR 25th 14.0, 75th 20.0) and contamination fears (median score 16.0; IQR 25th 12.0, 75th 19.0). Lower household income was associated with higher stress level (p = 0.006).

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated high awareness regarding risk of COVID-19 infection among parents of oncology children. Half of the parents had high stress level, with low household income identified as a factor associated with high stress level.
Analysis of the influence of educational level on the nutritional status and lifestyle habits of the young Spanish population
Authors: Sandri Elena , Pardo Juan , Cantín Larumbe Eva , Cerdá Olmedo Germán , Falcó Antonio
Published: April 2024

Aim

This study aims to analyze some nutrition and health habits of young people and the impact of educational attainment on health.

Methods

An observational, descriptive, and cross-sectional study was carried out using surveys. Using non-probabilistic snowball sampling, a previously validated questionnaire was disseminated through networks, collecting a sample of 9,681 people between 18 and 30  years old. Comparative analyses between groups were obtained by clustering and the corresponding statistical tests.

Results

The results showed how young people with higher education generally have a lower BMI, a higher healthy nutrition index, less frequent consumption of sugary drinks, and less smoking than their peers with basic education. These healthier habits are reflected in the higher self-perceived health status of the higher-educated group. While for all the educational levels analyzed, the minutes of physical activity practice are above the 150 min recommended by the WHO.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that young people’s education level is of fundamental importance for health, particularly for nutritional habits. In general, the lifestyle habits of the young Spanish population are healthy, but there is a need for improvement in those aspects related to nutrition and food.
A toxicological perspective on climate change and the exposome
Authors: Barouki Robert
Published: April 2024

Climate change is accompanied by changes in the exposome, including increased heat, ground-level ozone, and other air pollutants, infectious agents, pollens, and psychosocial stress. These exposures alter the internal component of the exposome and account for some of the health effects of climate change. The adverse outcome pathways describe biological events leading to an unfavorable health outcome. In this perspective study, I propose to use this toxicological framework to better describe the biological steps linking a stressor associated with climate change to an adverse outcome. Such a framework also allows for better identification of possible interactions between stressors related to climate change and others, such as chemical pollution. More generally, I call for the incorporation of climate change as part of the exposome and for improved identification of the biological pathways involved in its health effects.
Discussion on the recruitment strategy for apheresis platelet donors in Chongqing during a public health emergency*
Authors: Cheng Ying , Xie Chengbing , Tian Yunbo , Wang Fang , Liu Xingchen , Cheng Danfeng
Published: April 2024

Objective

This study aimed to analyze the population characteristics of apheresis platelet donors in Chongqing Province and provide a scientific basis for the development of precise and efficient recruitment strategies. The ultimate goal is to increase the number of regular platelet donors in preparation for public health emergencies.

Methods

This study involved 53,089 blood donors who donated apheresis platelets to the Chongqing Blood Center from 2020 to 2022. Data regarding age, sex, blood type, education level, occupation, and frequency of blood donation were collected and analyzed to identify factors influencing platelet donation.

Results

Between 2020 and 2022, the majority of apheresis platelet donors in Chongqing were aged 25–35 years, with a male-to-female ratio of 2.6:1. The ABO blood group distribution was O > A > B > AB. The apheresis platelet donors mainly consisted of college students, and the donors who had donated only once accounted for the greatest proportion.

Conclusion

Based on the population characteristics of apheresis platelet donors in Chongqing, blood collection and supply organizations must refine emergency blood collection and supply plans during public health emergencies. This study underscores the importance of developing precise and efficient recruitment strategies for apheresis platelet donors and expanding the pool of regular apheresis platelet donors. These measures are essential to ensure the timely, safe, and effective use of clinical blood resources during public health emergencies.
Environmental factors and particle size shape the community structure of airborne total and pathogenic bacteria in a university campus
Authors: Zhang Tianer , Liu Mengmeng , Zhou Dalin , Ma Zhijing , Chen Liu , Wu Danchen , Diao Haitao , Wang Wanru , Li Die , Zhen Quan
Published: April 2024

Given the dense population on university campuses, indoor and outdoor airborne bacterial contamination may lead to the rapid spread of diseases in a university environment. However, there are few studies of the characteristics of airborne and pathogenic bacterial communities in different sites on a university campus. In this study, we collected particulate matter samples from indoor and outdoor locations at a university in Bengbu City, Anhui Province, China, and analyzed the community characteristics of airborne and pathogenic bacteria using a high-throughput sequencing technique. The results showed that the composition of the dominant airborne and pathogenic bacterial communities was consistent among sites at the phylum and genus levels, with differences in their relative abundance. There were significant differences in the structure of the airborne and pathogenic bacterial communities between indoor and outdoor sites (p < 0.05). An analysis of similarities (ANOSIM) indicated that the structure of airborne bacterial communities in indoor sites was influenced by the room occupancy rate, ventilation conditions, and the extent of indoor furnishing (p < 0.05), while the structure of pathogenic bacterial communities was influenced by the number of individuals and spatial dimensions (p < 0.05). The impact of particle size on the structure of airborne and pathogenic bacterial communities was relatively minor. A total of 194 suspected pathogenic bacterial species were identified, accounting for 0.0001–1.3923% of the total airborne bacteria, all of which were conditional pathogens. Among them, Saccharopolyspora rectivirgula, Acinetobacter johnsonii, and Moraxella osloensis exhibited relatively high relative abundance, accounting for 24.40, 16.22, and 8.66% of the total pathogenic bacteria, respectively. Moreover, 18 emerging or re-emerging pathogenic bacterial species with significant implications for human health were identified, although their relative abundance was relatively low (0.5098%). The relative abundance of pathogenic bacteria in indoor environments was significantly higher than outdoors, with the laboratory and dormitory having the highest levels. The findings of this study provide valuable guidance for the prevention and control of airborne bacterial contamination and the associated health risks in both a campus environment and other public spaces with high occupancy rates.
Employer branding, organization’s image and reputation, and intention to apply: the moderating role of the availability of organizational information on social media
Authors: Thang Nguyen Ngoc , Trang Pham Thu
Published: April 2024

The topics of employer branding and organization’s image and reputation have been well-researched in the literature. However, most empirical studies were conducted in Europe, Australia, or the United States, but very few were conducted in Asia, especially in Vietnam. In addition, the interaction of image and reputation with the availability of information on social media is poorly understood. Using signaling theory for building a research model, we collected data from 206 Generation Z respondents from the logistics sector in Vietnam. Our findings show that (i) employer branding has positively and significantly related to an organization’s image and reputation; (ii) the organization’s image and reputation had a significant effect on job seekers’ intention to apply; and (iii) the interaction of image and reputation with availability of information on social media to predict the job seeker’s intention to apply. The paper also presented implications for both researchers and practitioners as well as recommendations for future research.
Typology analysis and adaptive capacity of commercial gardening farmers to climate change in peri-urban areas along the coastal area of Benin (West Africa)
Authors: Ahouangan Bidossessi Syntiche Chiméi Mérimée , Koura Bossima Ivan , Lesse Armel Dodji Paolo , Ahoyo Carlos Cédric , Toyi Scholastique Mireille , Vissin Expédit Wilfrid , Houinato Marcel Romuald Benjamin
Published: April 2024

The coastal environment represents a special site for human and economic activities. The population growth in this area has led to strong urbanization and, therefore, to the establishment of small-scale vegetable farms to feed the growing urban and peri-urban populations. This is an opportunity for youth employment and reduce poverty as this activity generates reliable incomes. However, in recent years, climatic changes and rapid urbanization have influenced agricultural activities in this area. The aim of this study was to characterize market gardening systems along the coastal area of Benin and understand farmers’ perceptions and adaptation strategies in response to the ongoing environmental changes. Data was collected from 130 farms using individual semi-structured questionnaires. A principal component analysis (PCA), K-Mean multivariate classification and statistical inference were used for data analysis. Three farm groups were identified from the hierarchical bottom-up classification: modern coastal farms (MCF, 59.24%), small-scale intra-urban farms (SIF, 35.38%) and traditional co-managed lowland farms (TCF, 5.38%). The perceived environmental changes were mainly temperature increases, strong winds and migration to another farmland. The criteria differentiating the groups were strong winds and variation in the start date of the rains (p < 0.05). According to current strategies farmers in groups 1 and 2 preferred crop diversification, those in group 3 moved their farms. Future strategies range from the early sale of crops to the use of modern watering equipment to the cessation of farming. Thus, sustainable farm management requires the involvement of decentralized structures and local stakeholders to maintain the livelihoods of local populations.
Exploring the nexus of agricultural policy reforms and food security
Authors: Barel-Shaked Sagit , Buda Erez
Published: April 2024

Agricultural policies play a critical role in determining the availability and stability of food supplies for individuals and communities. This study underscores the importance of incorporating social, economic, environmental, and political dimensions of food security when developing agricultural policy reforms. The study has two main objectives: (1) to disentangle the complexity surrounding food security by mapping policy reform decisions onto a suggested framework, and (2) to provide an empirical basis for analyzing food security using frame package analysis. To achieve these objectives, this study conducted an inductive frame analysis of agricultural policy reforms, using the theoretical framework of the “fractured consensus” regarding the CAP (Common Agricultural Policy). The case of Israel was chosen as an empirical example for the frame package analysis. The extended suggested theoretical framework can contribute to enhancing the research literature on the nexus between agricultural policy reforms and food security from both theoretical and empirical perspectives. Additionally, the proposed framework and its application can serve as a benchmark for evaluating agricultural policy reforms in the context of food security and developing practical strategies in the agri-food sector, considering the involvement of multiple players and interests.
Genomics-assisted speed breeding for crop improvement: present and future
Authors: Ćeran Marina , Miladinović Dragana , Đorđević Vuk , Trkulja Dragana , Radanović Aleksandra , Glogovac Svetlana , Kondić-Špika Ankica
Published: April 2024

Global agricultural productivity and food security are threatened by climate change, the growing world population, and the difficulties posed by the pandemic era. To overcome these challenges and meet food requirements, breeders have applied and implemented different advanced techniques that accelerate plant development and increase crop selection effectiveness. However, only two or three generations could be advanced annually using these approaches. Speed breeding (SB) is an innovative and promising technology to develop new varieties in a shorter time, utilizing the manipulation of controlled environmental conditions. This strategy can reduce the generation length from 2.5 to 5 times compared to traditional methods and accelerate generation advancement and crop improvement, accommodating multiple generations of crops per year. Beside long breeding cycles, SB can address other challenges related to traditional breeding, such as response to environmental conditions, disease and pest management, genetic uniformity, and improving resource efficiency. Combining genomic approaches such as marker-assisted selection, genomic selection, and genome editing with SB offers the capacity to further enhance breeding efficiency by reducing breeding cycle time, enabling early phenotypic assessment, efficient resource utilization, and increasing selection accuracy and genetic gain per year. Genomics-assisted SB holds the potential to revolutionize plant breeding by significantly accelerating the identification and selection of desirable genetic traits, expediting the development of improved crop varieties crucial for addressing global agricultural challenges.
Results of medical treatment with psyllium, lactobacillus, and tryptophan (Plurilac® Trio) in obstructive defecation syndrome
Authors: Valiyeva Sayali , Tiso Domenico , Cerri Paolo , Pisciaroli Antonio , Pietroletti Renato
Published: April 2024

Introduction

The term “obstructive defecation syndrome” (ODS) describes a complex condition characterized by defecatory disorders. Such a condition represents a significant proportion of patients, which is estimated to be up to 30% of patients affected by chronic constipation. Presently, a broad agreement has been reached on diagnostic studies, whereas the choice of treatment that aims to improve the quality of life and/or correct the prevalent abnormalities or all anatomical abnormalities remains controversial.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study on 174 patients out of a total of 232 with ODS who were observed in a specialized university unit of surgical coloproctology between 2018 and 2022. Clinical assessment included examining the values of the Agachan–Wexner constipation score and Patient Assessment of Constipation (PAC)-quality of life (QoL) scores, a full digital anorectal examination, anoscopy, RX defecography, and a urogynecological consultation; a functional anorectal test, an endoanal ultrasound, and colonoscopy were performed in select patients. The patients were reevaluated after an 8–10-week course of medical treatment based on a high-fiber diet and fluid intake and 6 g of psyllium combined with lactobacillus and tryptophan b.i.d. The results were analyzed by means of the Wilcoxon rank-sum test, comparing pretreatment scores with the results at the first follow-up visit.

Results

After 8–10 weeks of conservative treatment, 128 patients declared full satisfaction, 29 reported moderate satisfaction, and 17 (9.7%) declared no improvement. Among these 17, there were 5 patients with paradoxical puborectal contractions. The value of the Agachan–Wexner constipation score after treatment decreased from the pretreatment Agachan–Wexner constipation score mean value of 23.4 ± 3.7 (mean ± SD range 15–27) to a mean value of 5.3 ± 0.7 (range 3–8, p < 0.001). The quality of life improved, as shown by the PAC-QoL score, indicating great improvement in social relationships.

Conclusions

Given the benefits of conservative therapies, they represent a cornerstone in the treatment of ODS, a complex disorder. Diet and bulking agents are mandatory forms of treatment prior to making any surgical attempt, also considering the fact that the psychosomatic component of ODS is an essential prerequisite to match patient expectations.
Laparoscopic treatment of paraprostatic cyst in two dogs – complete resection, and partial resection with omentalization: a case report
Authors: Park Jiyoung , Won Heungseok , Park Gyeong Gook , Jeong Hee Jun , Moon Changhwan , Jeong Jaemin , Lee Hae-Beom , Kim Dae-Hyun , Jeong Seong Mok
Published: April 2024

Two intact male dogs were evaluated for symptoms, including hematuria, prostatomegaly, anuria, lethargy, and abdominal mass. Presurgical evaluations, including complete physical examinations, blood examinations, abdominal radiography with contrast (only in Case 2), ultrasonography, and computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging (only in Case 1), were performed. A paraprostatic cyst was diagnosed initially, and laparoscopic exploration and surgery were performed. Complete resection was performed in case 1, whereas partial resection with omentalization was performed in case 2. Histopathological examination of the tissue samples confirmed the presence of paraprostatic pseudocysts in both cases, with no evidence of an epithelial lining. These two cases represent the first documented instances of laparoscopic treatment for extraparenchymal prostatic cysts. The laparoscopic treatment proved feasible even in the case of a giant cyst causing anuria (Case 2). Paraprostatic cysts should be considered a potential differential diagnosis for abnormal urination accompanied by an abdominal mass, and long-term postoperative follow-up is necessary.
Results of routine thoracic radiographic examinations rarely impact the plan to proceed with anesthetic procedures in dogs with presumed acute intervertebral disc herniation
Authors: Takedai Teiko , Block Nicole , Pinal Karina M. , Frederick Steven W.
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Acute thoracolumbar intervertebral disc herniation (IVDH) constitutes an emergency because associated neurological clinical signs can be progressive, with prognosis dependent on preoperative presence of deep pain perception. Pre-anesthetic thoracic radiographs are routinely performed to evaluate for potential pathology that could result in increased risk or change in overall prognosis. However, due to the emergent nature of this disease, the weight of thoracic radiographic findings on treatment plans for these dogs in unknown. The objective of this study was to investigate the clinical benefit of thoracic radiographs prior to advanced spinal imaging and surgery for acute non-ambulatory dogs with suspected T3-L3 myelopathy.

Methods

Consecutive dogs presented with presumed acute IVDH between July 2020-July 2022 were identified, and medical records were reviewed retrospectively. Age, body weight, and alteration of treatment plan were compared between the dogs with positive thoracic pathology identified on thoracic radiographs and those with negative thoracic pathology.

Results

Only 2/105 dogs had their diagnostic and treatment plans changed due to thoracic radiographic findings. Dogs with radiographic pathology diagnosed (2/16) were more likely to have their treatment plans changed than dogs with no radiographic pathology (0/89) (p = 0.014). The odds of radiographic thoracic pathology were 4.6 times higher in dogs aged 12 years or older [OR 4.6 (95%CI 1.2–17, p = 0.026].

Discussion

Performing routine thoracic radiography prior to advanced (anesthetized) diagnostic spinal imaging in presumed IVDH cases rarely resulted in a change to the treatment plan, thought eh practice may be clinically relevant in dogs 12 years of age or older.
Lateral Stability Control for Intelligent Commercial Vehicle Based on Reconstructed Objective Function Method
Authors: Li Yafei , Yang Yiyong , Wang Xiangyu , Wang Chengbiao
Published: April 2024

In this paper, a novel electric-hydraulic power steering (EHPS) system and a vehicle stability coordination control algorithm are proposed which can not only ensure the accuracy of the trajectory tracking but also solve the coordination control problem between the stability of the lateral control and the stability of the roll in the extreme condition. Firstly, the EHPS system is designed to provide accurate control input of front wheel angle for vehicle lateral dynamics control. Secondly, on the basis of optimal preview theory, a new trajectory tracking fusion controller combined with sliding mode control is proposed to improve the accuracy and stability of the system in the process of vehicle lateral trajectory tracking control. Then, the stability domain boundary function of the phase plane is determined according to the phase plane of the sideslip angle-yaw rate, and the stability margin of the phase plane is calculated during the steering process. Finally, considering the tracking accuracy, lateral stability and roll stability performance in the process of trajectory tracking, the linear weighted algorithm is used to coordinate above three objectives, and the HIL bench test and real vehicle experiment verify that the proposed algorithm has good reliability and effectiveness.
Acoustic and Vibration Response and Fatigue Life Analysis of Thin-Walled Connection Structures under Heat Flow Conditions
Authors: Sha Yundong , Zhao Wenqiang , Tang Xiaoning , Zhao Fengtong
Published: April 2024

Thin-walled connection structures are commonly used in the hot-end components of aerospace vehicles. Large deflection nonlinear responses and fatigue failure occur due to their discontinuous mass distribution and prominent cross-sectional changes under the action of complex thermal, aerodynamic, and noise loads. A thermoacoustic fatigue test was carried out to obtain the acoustic and vibration responses and fatigue life changes of the connection structure under heat flow conditions in engineering applications. The high-temperature acoustic fatigue test system of aviation thin-walled structures was used, taking the high-temperature alloy thin-walled plate-load-bearing frame bolted connection structure as the research object. As a result, the vibration response and fatigue life under different thermoacoustic loads were obtained. The contact finite element method was used to simulate the connection pre-tightening force, and the coupled finite element/boundary element method was used to calculate the acoustic and vibration response of the heat flow conditions. The changing rules of the frequency response peak value at the critical point of the thin-walled connection structure under the effects of different temperature fields, fluid fields, and sound fields were obtained through the processing and analysis of the calculation results. Considering the structural vibration fatigue damage mechanism, this study employed an improved rainflow counting method to compute the rainflow circulation matrix (RFM) and rainflow damage matrix (RFD) of the vibration stress time history at critical points within the structure framework. Said method was combined with Miner’s linear cumulative damage theory to estimate the fatigue life under various thermal-fluid-acoustic coupled loads. A comprehensive analysis validates the accuracy of the established numerical simulation calculation model in identifying critical connection points within structures subjected to pre-tightening forces. This model effectively characterizes thermal, aerodynamic, and acoustic loads on high-temperature alloy thin-walled-load-bearing frame bolted connection structures. It delineates the relationship between vibration response and fatigue life while assessing the impact of three distinct load parameters.
Research on Tractor Condition Recognition Based on Neural Networks
Authors: Luo Yahui , Li Chen , Jiang Ping , Shi Yixin , Li Bin , Hu Wenwu
Published: April 2024

Tractor condition recognition has important research value in helping to understand the operating status of tractors and the trend of tillage depth changes in the field. Therefore, this article presents a method for recognizing tractor conditions, providing the basis for establishing the relationship between tractor conditions and the tillage depth of the attached agricultural machinery. This study designed a tractor condition recognition method based on neural networks. Using real-world vehicle data to establish a data set, K-means clustering analysis was used to label the data set based on four conditions: “accelerated start”, “constant speed”, “decelerated stop” and “turning”. The learning vector quantization (LVQ) neural network and the VGG-16 model of a CNN were selected for use recognizing the tractor conditions. The results showed that both the neural networks had good recognition effects. The average accuracy rates of the VGG-16 model of CNN and LVQ neural network were 90.25% and 79.7%, respectively, indicating that these models could be applied to tractor condition recognition and provide theoretical support for the correction of angle detection errors.
Can the Integration of Water and Fertilizer Promote the Sustainable Development of Rice Production in China?
Authors: Liao Qin , Nie Jiangxia , Yin Huilai , Luo Yongheng , Shu Chuanhai , Cheng Qingyue , Fu Hao , Li Biao , Li Liangyu , Sun Yongjian , Chen Zongkui , Ma Jun , Li Na , Zhang Xiaoli , Yang Zhiyuan
Published: April 2024

Rice production is the agricultural activity with the highest energy consumption and carbon emission intensity. Water and fertilizer management constitutes an important part of energy input for rice production and a key factor affecting greenhouse gas emissions from paddy fields. Water–fertilizer integration management (AIM) is an automated water and fertilizer management system for large-scale rice production, which can effectively save water and fertilizer resources. At present, the energy utilization and environmental impact of AIM in rice production are not clear. To clarify whether AIM is a water and fertilizer management measure that combines energy conservation and carbon emission reduction, a comparative study between the widely used farmers’ enhanced water and fertilizer management (FEM) in China and AIM was conducted in this paper. Field experiments were conducted to evaluate the rice yield, carbon emission, energy utilization, and economic benefits of the two management methods. The results showed that AIM reduced water and fertilizer inputs, energy inputs, and economic costs by 12.18–28.57%, compared to FEM. The energy utilization efficiency, energy profitability, and energy productivity under AIM were improved by 11.30–12.61%. CH4 and N2O emissions and carbon footprint were reduced by 20.79%, 6.51%, and 16.39%, respectively. Compared with FEM, AIM can effectively improve the utilization efficiency of water and fertilizer resources and reduce carbon emissions. This study presents a mechanized water and fertilizer management approach suitable for large-scale rice production systems in China. By analyzing rice yield, resource utilization efficiency, and environmental benefits, AIM can serve as a crucial management strategy for enhancing productivity, economic returns, and environmental conservation within profitable rice production systems. In the future, further investigation into the impact of AIM on the microbial mechanisms underlying rice yield formation and greenhouse gas emissions is warranted.