bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Meaning in life and adolescent self-control: Effect of perceived social support and its gender differences
Authors: Liu Yafei , Di Siyu , Shi Yaohui , Ma Chao
Published: December 2022

Purpose

The objective of this study is to investigate the relationship between meaning in life and adolescent self-control, as well as the role of perceived social support and gender in this pathway.

Methods

For this purpose, a total of 936 adolescents from two high schools were selected as subjects in this study. The Meaning in Life Scale, the Self-Control Scale, and the Perceived Social Support Scale were used for the research.

Results

The results obtained in this study have shown that meaning in life is a significant positive predictor of adolescent self-control and perceived social support. In addition, perceived social support partially mediates the relationship between meaning in life and self-control. Further, it has been found that gender moderates the second half of the pathway of the mediation model of meaning in life on self-control, specifically, perceived social support is a stronger predictor of self-control for females than for males.

Conclusion

The results of this study suggest that enhancing perceived social support promotes self-control in adolescents with lower meaning in life, and this process is more pronounced in females.
How do idiosyncratic deals influence innovation performance? From the perspective of coworker
Authors: Ding Chen , Deng Lingxiao , Yang Jing , Chai Jiayun
Published: December 2022

In the hypercompetitive marketplace, contemporary organizations incorporate the diversity of talents into job design (i.e., offering idiosyncratic deals), in order to meet the unique needs of talented employees and achieve the purpose of attracting, motivating, and retaining them. Based on the cognitive-affective processing system framework, this study aims to explore the effect of coworkers’ perceptions of employees’ idiosyncratic deals (CPEID) on coworker innovation performance, the mediating role of thriving at work, and the moderating role of humility. Two-wave data were obtained from 248 employees of 15 China firms. The findings suggest that (a) CPEID increase coworker innovation performance by fostering coworker learning; (b) CPEID decrease coworker innovation performance by undermining coworker vitality; (c) Coworker humility not only positively moderates the relationship between CPEID and coworker learning, but also positively moderates the indirect effect of coworker learning between CPEID and coworker innovation performance; and (d) the moderating role of coworker humility is not significant in the relationship between CPEID and coworker vitality. This study provides a theoretical explanation for whether CPEID have both positive and negative effects on coworker innovation performance, and extends boundary conditions of idiosyncratic deals (i-deals). Besides, the findings inspire managers to make reasonable use of the positive role of i-deals.
DALY trend and predictive analysis of COPD in China and its provinces: Findings from the global burden of disease study
Authors: Zhai Mimi , Jiang Qin , Liu Sushun , Long Jianhai , Zhang Dan , Ren Chutong , Gong Yi , Li Yamin
Published: December 2022

Background

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the most common chronic respiratory disease in the world, especially in China. Few studies have explored the trend of COPD in China and its provinces. This study aimed to demonstrate and predict the trend of COPD DALY in China and its provinces based on the global burden of disease (GBD) data.

Methods

The data on COPD disability-adjusted life year (DALY) were collected from GBD 2017, GBD 2019, and the National Bureau of Statistics of China. The age-standardized rate (ASR) was used to evaluate the trend of COPD DALY by gender, age, and risk factors in China and its provinces. In addition, the trend of COPD considering the aging population in the next 10 years was also predicted.

Results

In China, the COPD DALY was 20.4 million in 2017, which decreased to 24.16% from 1990 to 2017. Most provinces showed a downward trend, with the exception of Taiwan which increased by 127.78%. The ASR of DALY was 1445.53 per 100,000 people in 2017 and demonstrated a significant decrease. Among all provinces, only Taiwan (97.78%) and Hubei (2.21%) demonstrated an increased trend of ASR. In addition, Tibet ranked third with a decline of 56.95%, although its ASR was the highest in 1990. Smoking and air pollution were the main risk factors for COPD and varied with regions, gender, and age. The proportion of COPD DALY attributable to smoking was higher in the middle-aged and elderly male population and did not decrease in China. Moreover, the ASR attributable to air pollution of the elderly decreased significantly in China. Socio-demographic index (SDI) and educational level were also found to be related to ASR. By predicting the ASR trend in the next 10 years, we found that the ASR attributable to smoking might increase significantly among men. The ASR attributable to air pollution showed a significant decrease in women. Unfortunately, ASR attributable to second-hand smoke was found to increase in women.

Conclusion

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is the leading contributor to the burden of global diseases. Although China and its provinces demonstrated a downward trend of COPD DALY, some provinces still faced challenges. Moreover, ASR attributable to risk factors was different in regions, gender, age, and years. The predicted trend of COPD was also different. Therefore, more targeted strategies should be formulated to reduce the burden of COPD in China and its provinces.
Urbanization and depressive symptoms among middle-aged and older adults in China
Authors: Hong Chenlu , Xiong Xiaoxiao , Li Jun , Ning Xin , Qi Dawei , Yang Yingkai , Liu Yating , Luo Yanan
Published: December 2022

Aims

Urbanization plays an important role in individuals' health. However, it is difficult to isolate healthy migrant effect between urbanization and health. This study examined the effects of urbanization on depressive symptoms and its possible pathways among Chinese middle-aged and older adults independent of the influence of health-selective migration.

Methods

Using the baseline survey of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study, this study compared the depressive symptoms among three groups (urbanized rural residents, rural non-migrants and urban non-migrants). The 10-item Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CESD-10) short form was used to measure depressive symptoms. Logistic regression models and Structural Equation Model (SEM) were applied to examine the association between urbanization and depressive symptoms and the corresponding potential mechanisms.

Results

Our final sample contained 11,156 respondents with an average age of 58.91 (SD = 9.48), with 5,142 males (46.09%) and 6,014 females (53.91%). Compared with urbanized rural residents, rural residents were more likely to have depressive symptoms (OR = 1.19, 95% CI = 1.07, 1.32), and urban residents were associated with a decreased risk of depressive symptoms (OR = 0.81, 95% CI: 0.70, 0.94). A large proportion of the association between urbanization and depressive symptoms were mainly mediated by social participation, income and living conditions.

Conclusions

Planned urbanization had an independent impact on decreased depressive symptoms. Improvements in social participation, income and living conditions are the main drivers behind this relationship. Additionally, urbanization compensates for the negative impact of depressive symptoms from disadvantaged early life conditions, but it cannot eliminate the gap between urbanized rural people and urban non-migrants.
Transforming citywide sanitation provision: Utility voices on pit emptying and transport services in Kenya and Zambia
Authors: Grisaffi Claire , Oluoch Priscillah , Hamuchenje Eustakia M. , Phiri Jessica , Salano Gertrude , Hawkes Lisa , Parker Alison
Published: December 2022

This paper documents the key challenges faced by utilities in sub-Saharan Africa attempting to establish citywide safe manual and semi-mechanized latrine pit emptying, transport and disposal services. The research aims to take a snapshot of utilities at a pivotal point in service development, where initial services have been piloted and the utilities are looking to go to scale. We use the CWIS framework to guide analysis of perspectives of the implementing agencies in Livingstone, Zambia, and Malindi, Kenya, using a secondary data review and 34 key informant interviews. This paper confirms previous findings around the high cost of safe sanitation services in low-income areas, the barriers of emptiability, the engagement of manual pit emptiers and the requirement for investment in supporting systems. Areas for future research were identified, including approaches for service delivery to reduce the decision load on the household, structures of engagement and regulation of pit emptiers, and finally how regulation could support incremental improvements toward full coverage, including the lowest income households. The research documents, for the first time in the region, the challenges of dealing with disgust in establishing these new services and the conflicting role of public utilities as both commercial and social organizations. The current model for private sector delivery of the service is politically viable and reduces the risk and cost burden on the utilities. However, it is likely to leave the utilities unable to scale sanitation to low-income areas.
The swing performance Index: Developing a single-score index of golf swing rotational biomechanics quantified with 3D kinematics
Authors: Zhou Joanne Y. , Richards Alexander , Schadl Kornel , Ladd Amy , Rose Jessica
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Golf swing generates power through coordinated rotations of the pelvis and upper torso, which are highly consistent among professionals. Currently, golf performance is graded on handicap, length-of-shot, and clubhead-speed-at-impact. No performance indices are grading the technique of pelvic and torso rotations. As an initial step toward developing a performance index, we collected kinematic metrics of swing rotational biomechanics and hypothesized that a set of these metrics could differentiate between amateur and pro players. The aim of this study was to develop a single-score index of rotational biomechanics based on metrics that are consistent among pros and could be derived in the future using inertial measurement units (IMU).

Methods

Golf swing rotational biomechanics was analyzed using 3D kinematics on eleven professional (age 31.0 ± 5.9 years) and five amateur (age 28.4 ± 6.9 years) golfers. Nine kinematic metrics known to be consistent among professionals and could be obtained using IMUs were selected as candidate variables. Oversampling was used to account for dataset imbalances. All combinations, up to three metrics, were tested for suitability for factor analysis using Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin tests. Principal component analysis was performed, and the logarithm of Euclidean distance of principal components between golf swings and the average pro vector was used to classify pro vs. amateur golf swings employing logistic regression and leave-one-out cross-validation. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was used to determine the optimal set of kinematic metrics.

Results

A single-score index calculated using peak pelvic rotational velocity pre-impact, pelvic rotational velocity at impact, and peak upper torso rotational velocity post-impact demonstrated strong predictive performance to differentiate pro (mean ± SD:100 ± 10) vs. amateur (mean ± SD:82 ± 4) golfers with an AUC of 0.97 and a standardized mean difference of 2.12.

Discussion

In this initial analysis, an index derived from peak pelvic rotational velocity pre-impact, pelvic rotational velocity at impact, and peak upper torso rotational velocity post-impact demonstrated strong predictive performance to differentiate pro from amateur golfers. Swing Performance Index was developed using a limited sample size; future research is needed to confirm results. The Swing Performance Index aims to provide quantified feedback on swing technique to improve performance, expedite training, and prevent injuries.
Curcuminoid supplementation in canine diabetic mellitus and its complications using proteomic analysis
Authors: Suemanotham Namphung , Photcharatinnakorn Pongsakorn , Chantong Boonrat , Buranasinsup Shutipen , Phochantachinda Sataporn , Sakcamduang Walasinee , Reamtong Onrapak , Thiangtrongjit Tipparat , Chatchaisak Duangthip
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Inflammation and oxidative stress contribute to diabetes pathogenesis and consequences. Therapeutic approaches for canine diabetes remain a challenge. Curcumin has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative effects and is beneficial for humans with diabetes mellitus (DM); however, data on its impact on canine diabetes is limited. This study aimed to evaluate the potential for causing adverse effects, anti-inflammatory effects, anti-oxidative effects and proteomic patterns of curcuminoid supplementation on canine DM.

Methods

Altogether, 18 dogs were divided into two groups: DM (n = 6) and healthy (n = 12). Curcuminoid 250 mg was given to the DM group orally daily for 180 days. Blood and urine sample collection for hematological parameters, blood biochemistry, urinalysis, oxidative stress parameters, inflammatory markers and proteomics were performed every 6 weeks.

Results and discussion

Curcuminoid supplementation with standard therapy significantly decreased oxidative stress with the increased glutathione/oxidized glutathione ratio, but cytokine levels were unaffected. According to the proteomic analysis, curcuminoid altered the expression of alpha-2-HS-glycoprotein, transthyretin, apolipoprotein A-I and apolipoprotein A-IV, suggesting that curcuminoid improves insulin sensitivity and reduces cardiovascular complications. No negative impact on clinical symptoms, kidneys or liver markers was identified. This study proposed that curcuminoids might be used as a targeted antioxidant strategy as an adjunctive treatment to minimize diabetes complications in dogs.
Effects of dietary supplementation with quercetagetin on nutrient digestibility, intestinal morphology, immunity, and antioxidant capacity of broilers
Authors: Wu Fengyang , Wang Haonan , Li Shuo , Wei Zhonghua , Han Shuaijuan , Chen Baojiang
Published: December 2022

Quercetagetin (QG) is gaining increased attention as a potential alternative to in-feed antioxidants due to its antioxidant activity. This experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation with QG on nutrient digestibility, intestinal morphology, immunity, and antioxidant capacity of broilers. Four hundred 1-day-old Ross 308 broilers were randomly assigned into 4 groups with 10 replicates in each group and 10 broilers in each replicate. The four dietary treatments included the basal diet supplemented with 0, 3.2, 4.8, or 6.4 mg/kg QG. The results showed that dietary supplementation with QG significantly promoted the broilers' apparent digestibility of phosphorus (P < 0.05), increased the villus height in jejunum and ileum, and reduced the crypt depth in jejunum and ileum, which significantly increased the ratio of villus height to crypt depth in the jejunum and ileum (P < 0.05). The dietary supplementation with QG also significantly enhanced the immunoglobulin G (IgG) and complement 4 (C4) levels in the blood (P < 0.05), the activity of total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) in serum, jejunum mucosa, and ileum mucosa, the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) in the serum and liver (P < 0.05), and significantly up-regulated the kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1), nuclear factor E2 related factor 2 (Nrf2), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), NAD(P)H: quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO-1), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) mRNA expression levels in the jejunum mucosa, ileum mucosa, and liver tissues of broilers. Therefore, supplementing broilers' diets with QG can enhance the apparent digestibility of phosphorus, improve the structure and morphology of jejunum and ileum, promote immunity, and increase the activity of antioxidant enzymes and the antioxidantive capacity through the Nrf2/antioxidant response element (ARE) signaling pathway mediated by Keap1.
Interconnections between Emotion Recognition, Self-Processes and Psychological Well-Being in Adolescents
Authors: Maynard Meghan , Quenneville Shanel , Hinves Kristina , Talwar Victoria , Bosacki Sandra
Published: December 2022

Background: Adolescence is a critical developmental period for mentalization and emotion regulation skills. Studies show that during this time, adolescents may experience greater vulnerability to challenges of mental and emotional well-being. Studies also show that self-skills, such as mentalization, self-compassion, and self-control are independently associated with feelings of global self-worth or psychological well-being. To date, no known studies have explored interconnected relations among these self-skills, despite significant overlaps in the social-biological development of these skills. Aims: To investigate interconnected relations among psychological well-being, mentalization, self-compassion and self-control. Gender differences in these relations are explored. Method: As part of a larger, longitudinal study of adolescent well-being, this cross-sectional study drew on a variety of self-report measures, investigating relations among adolescents’ self-reports of psychological well-being, emotion recognition, self-control, and self-compassion. Participants consisted of 88 girls and 57 boys, mean age 13.38. Results: Main results showed associations among emotion recognition, self-control and self-compassion and feelings of global self-worth. Specifically, results showed that understanding negative emotions in others relates to lower levels of self-compassion and feelings of self-worth. Further, adolescents who report low levels of self-control reported uncompassionate self-responding and lower levels of self-worth. Gender differences and implications for further research and adolescent social-emotional interventions are discussed.
A Fast Aerodynamic Model for Aircraft Multidisciplinary Design and Optimization Process
Authors: Moëns Frédéric
Published: December 2022

A multidisciplinary design analysis and optimization process is developed at ONERA for the design of tube and wing and blended wing–body aircraft configurations. This process is composed of different disciplinary modules (geometry, propulsion, aerodynamics, structure, handling qualities and flight mission), and the overall process considers different fidelity levels for these modules at each step of the design process. This article describes the low-fidelity aerodynamic module used during the preliminary design optimization process. Analytical formulations retained for lift and drag components are presented in the first part. Then, the performances estimated by the aerodynamic module on some reference configurations are compared with both numerical and experimental data, showing a quite good agreement for both tube and wing and blended wing–body configurations not only for global performance but also for individual drag components.
Comparative Evaluation of the Dynamics of Animal Husbandry Air Pollutant Emissions Using an IoT Platform for Farms
Authors: Popa Razvan Alexandru , Popa Dana Catalina , Pogurschi Elena Narcisa , Vidu Livia , Marin Monica Paula , Tudorache Minodora , Suciu George , Bălănescu Mihaela , Burlacu Sabina , Budulacu Radu , Vulpe Alexandru
Published: December 2022

One of the major challenges of animal husbandry, in addition to those related to the economic situation and the current energy crisis, is the major contribution of this sector to atmospheric pollution. Awareness of pollution sources and their permanent monitoring in order to ensure efficient management of the farm, with the aim of reducing emissions, is a mandatory issue, both at the macro level of the economic sector and at the micro level, specifically at the level of each individual farm. In this context, the acquisition of consistent environmental data from the level of each farm will constitute a beneficial action both for the decision-making system of the farm and for the elaboration or adjustment of strategies at the national level. The current paper proposes a case study of air pollutants in a cattle farm for different seasons (winter and summer) and the correlation between their variation and microclimate parameters. A further comparison is made between values estimated using the EMEP (European Monitoring and Evaluation Programme, 2019) methodology for air pollutant emission and values measured by sensors in a hybrid decision support platform for farms. Results show that interactions between microclimate and pollutant emissions exist and they can provide a model for the farm’s activities that the farmer can manage according to the results of the measurements.
Scaling Up the Effects of Low Nitrogen in Commercial Broiler Farms
Authors: Fenske Kilian , Lemme Andreas , Rother Elmar , Westendarp Heiner
Published: December 2022

In a protein reduction feeding trial (Study 1) on a commercial broiler farm in northern Germany, it was attempted to be shown that research results from station tests on protein reduction can be transferred to agricultural practice. In a second study, the limits of the N reduction were tested in a research facility. In Study 1, commercial standard feeds were fed to the control group (variant 1:210,000 animals; n = 5 barns). In the test group (variant 2:210,000 animals; n = 5 barns), the weighted mean crude protein (CP) content was moderately reduced by 0.3%. The nitrogen reduction in the feed did not affect performance (feed intake (FA), daily gain (DG), feed conversion (FCR)), but nitrogen conversion rate increased from approx. 61% to approx. 63%. The solid litter weight was reduced by 12% and nitrogen excretion by 9% (p < 0.05). Significantly healthier footpads were due to lower water intake (−4%; p < 0.05) and a numerically drier bedding. In Study 2, responses of treatments (1250 broiler per variant; n = 5) showed that sharper N-lowering (−1.5% CP; weighted average) did not impair performance either, but N-conversion improved and N-excretions decreased significantly. Converted to a protein reduction of one percentage point, the N excretions were able to be reduced by 22% in Study 1 and 18% in Study 2. Feeding trials in the commercial sector, such as the present Study 1, should convince feed mills and farmers to allow the latest scientific results to be used directly and comprehensively in commercial ration design.
Flowering Phenology of Selected Elepidote Rhododendron L. Taxa
Authors: Nowaczyk Paweł Maurycy , Krzymińska-Bródka Agnieszka
Published: December 2022

This study aims to evaluate the flowering phenology of selected 95 Elepidote Rhododendron taxa. The flowering period was assessed, distinguishing ten developmental stages. Flowering was observed every three days. The comparative scale prepared indicates the exact succession of bloom of taxa. Flowering of 95 taxa lasted from the end of April to the second half of June. The flowering period of individual cultivars ranged from 2 to 9 weeks. The flowering time of cultivars belonging to the same species was mostly similar. The term of cultivars flowering was in the following tendency order: R. caucasicum–R. wardii–R. forestii–R. williamsianum–R. catawbiense–R. ponticum.
Genetic Correlations between Days to Calving across Joinings and Lactation Status in a Tropically Adapted Composite Beef Herd
Authors: Facy Madeliene L. , Hebart Michelle L. , Oakey Helena , McEwin Rudi A. , Pitchford Wayne S.
Published: December 2022

Female fertility is essential to any beef breeding program. However, little genetic gain has been made due to long generation intervals and low levels of phenotyping. Days to calving (DC) is a fertility trait that may provide genetic gain and lead to an increased weaning rate. Genetic parameters and correlations were estimated and compared for DC across multiple joinings (first, second and third+) and lactation status (lactating and non-lactating) for a tropical composite cattle population where cattle were first mated as yearlings. The genetic correlation between first joining DC and mature joining DC (third+) was moderate–high (0.55–0.83). DC was uncorrelated between multiparous lactating and non-lactating cows (rG = −0.10). Mature joining DC was more strongly correlated with second joining lactating DC (0.41–0.69) than with second joining non-lactating DC (−0.14 to −0.16). Thus, first joining DC, second joining DC and mature joining DC should be treated as different traits to maximise genetic gain. Further, for multi-parous cows, lactating and non-lactating DC should be treated as different traits. Three traits were developed to report back to the breeding programs to maximise genetic gain: the first joining days to calving, the second joining days to calving lactating and mature days to calving lactating.
Anatomical Assessment of Skin Separation in Date Palm (Phoenix dactylifera L. var. Mejhoul) Fruit during Maturation and Ripening Stages
Authors: Alsmairat Nihad , Othman Yahia , Ayad Jamal , Al-Ajlouni Malik , Sawwan Jamal , El-Assi Najib
Published: December 2022

Skin separation (puffiness) is a critical physiological disorder that significantly reduces the date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) fruit’s visual appearance and quality. The objectives of this study were to analyze fruit anatomy in skin-separated and normal date palm (var. Mejhoul) fruit and to assess the microclimatic conditions (temperature and relative humidity) during the fruit developmental stages and their association with skin separation. Fruit anatomy analysis was carried at different growth stages (Kimri-Khalal, Khalal, Rutab and Tamr) for two growing seasons. In addition, microclimatic conditions (specifically, temperature, and relative humidity) as well as soil moisture content were assessed across the study period 2020 and 2021. The anatomical analysis of the date palm fruit revealed that the exocarp or skin (cuticle, epidermis, hypodermis) thickness were quite similar across the developmental stages and over the study period (2020, 2021). Conversely, significantly more sclereid cells were found in skin-separated fruit (compared to normal fruit) at the Tamr stage. At that stage (Tamr), the percentage increase in sclereid cell number in skin-separated fruit ranged from 34–183%, sclereid clusters number 23–92%, cluster area 37–206%, and cluster perimeter 25–64%, as compared to normal fruit. In addition, sclereid cells at skin-separated areas of the fruit were clustered together, forming a chain of aggregates underneath the fruit skin, and were closer (42–50%, than normal) to the cuticle, leading to the partial separation of the exocarp from the fruit mesocarp. Although the weather data were similar across the growing seasons (temperatures, 33–34 °C; relative humidity, 45–46%), skin separation occurred in 14–15% of total fruit in 2020 and 30–34% in 2021. Therefore, we believe that skin separation disorder is not as heavily weather dependent as it seems to have been thought. In conclusion, changes in microclimate conditions were not the conclusive component for inducing the skin separation physiological disorder in date palm fruit. Further studies are required to identify the main factors that stimulate the development of sclereid clusters aggregates and the potential of agricultural practices to reduce skin separation.
Effects of Microencapsulated Probiotics on Performance, Organ Development, Diarrhoea Incidences, Blood Parameters, Intestinal Histomorphology and Microflora in Weaning Piglets
Authors: Lefter Nicoleta Aurelia , Hăbeanu Mihaela , Gheorghe Anca , Dumitru Mihaela , Gal Claudiu , Vlaicu Petru Alexandru
Published: December 2022

The study aimed to assess the effects of the dietary supplementation of microencapsulated L. acidophilus and L. plantarum and their combination on the growth performance, organ development, diarrhoea incidences, blood profiles, intestinal histomorphology and microflora in weaned piglets. For that, 160 piglets with an average body weight (BW) of 8.52 ± 0.15 kg were divided into four groups (40 piglets/group) and allotted to one of the four dietary treatments as follows: a basal diet (C diet) or a basal diet containing 1 × 108 CFU/g of L. acidophilus (LA diet), or a diet containing 3 × 108 CFU/g of L. plantarum (LP diet) and a diet with the combination of both bacterial strains (LA + LP diet) for 21 days. On day 14, probiotics significantly increased ADFI, while FCR was higher in the LA and LP groups than the C and LA + LP groups. No effects (p > 0.05) on visceral organs weight, intestinal pH and biochemical parameters among treatments were noticed. Treatments significantly lowered diarrhoea incidence compared to control. Villus width was greater (p < 0.05) in all small intestinal segments in piglets fed probiotics. In the jejunum and ileum villus length, crypt length, and total villi length were higher (p < 0.05), particularly in the LA + LP group. The probiotics, particularly the LA + LP group, modulated the cecal, jejunum and ileum microbial community structure and increased (p < 0.05) the amount of Lactobacillus spp. while decreasing the populations of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus. Our results indicated that dietary supplementation of microencapsulated probiotics, particularly the combination of L. plantarum and L acidophilus strains, maintained growth performance, lowered diarrhoea incidence and beneficially altered the intestinal architecture and microbial populations of weaned piglets.
Hide-and-Seek in a Highly Human-Dominated Landscape: Insights into Movement Patterns and Selection of Resting Sites of Rehabilitated Wolves (Canis lupus) in Northern Italy
Authors: Torretta Elisa , Corradini Andrea , Pedrotti Luca , Bani Luciano , Bisi Francesco , Dondina Olivia
Published: December 2022

Assessing the behavioural responses of floating wolves to human presence is crucial for investigating the chance of wolf populations expanding into urbanised landscapes. We studied the movement ecology of three rehabilitated wolves in a highly human-dominated landscape (Po Plain, Italy) to explore wolf’s plasticity amid widespread human pressure. To reach this aim, we estimated individual 95% utilisation distributions (UD) after the release and inspected both 95% UDs and net squared displacements to identify individual movement patterns; tested for differences in movement patterns during day and night; and analysed the selection of resting sites during dispersal movement in a highly human-altered environment. Both the 95% UDs and step lengths were smaller for wolves settling in suitable areas than for those settling in more urbanised areas. All wolves exhibited strong temporal segregation with humans during all movement phases, particularly while dispersing across highly urbanised areas. Main roads and proximity to built-up areas were shown to limit wolves’ dispersal, whereas small-wooded patches that provide shelter during rest facilitated long-distance movements. This study provides important insights into wolf movement and settling in urban and peri-urban areas, providing critical knowledge to promote human–carnivore coexistence.
Nervous Necrosis Virus (NNV) Booster Vaccination Increases Senegalese Sole Survival and Enhances Immunoprotection
Authors: López-Vázquez Carmen , Souto Sandra , Olveira José G. , Riaza Ana , González Óscar , Brea Cristina , Labella Alejandro M. , Castro Dolores , Bandín Isabel
Published: December 2022

A re-immunization programme has been tested to improve the protective response elicited in sole by a previously developed BEI-inactivated betanodavirus vaccine. The vaccine was prepared using a reassortant RGNNV/SJNNV strain which is highly pathogenic for sole, and vaccination assays were performed by intraperitoneal injection. Experimental design included a prime- and a booster-vaccination group, which consisted of individuals that received a second vaccine injection at 30 days post vaccination), and their respective controls. A month after prime/booster vaccination, fish were challenged by intramuscular injection with the homologous NNV strain. Samples were collected at different times post vaccination and post challenge to assess the immune response and viral replication. Booster dose enhanced the protection against NNV infection because a significant increase in survival was recorded when compared with prime-vaccinated individuals (relative percent survival 77 vs. 55). In addition, a clear decrease in viral replication in the brain of challenged sole was observed. During the immune induction period, no differences in IgM production were observed between prime- and booster-vaccinated fish, and the expression of the antigen presenting cells (APC)-related molecule MHC class II antigen was the only differential stimulation recorded in the re-immunized individuals. However, a significant upregulation of mhcII and the lymphocytes T helper (Th) marker cd4 was observed after the challenge in the booster-vaccinated group, suggesting these cells play a role in the protection conferred by the booster injection. In addition, after viral infection, re-immunized fish showed specific and neutralizing antibody production and overexpression of other immune-related genes putatively involved in the control of NNV replication.
Selected Soybean Varieties Regulate Hepatic LDL-Cholesterol Homeostasis Depending on Their Glycinin:β-Conglycinin Ratio
Authors: Rebollo-Hernanz Miguel , Bringe Neal A. , Gonzalez de Mejia Elvira
Published: December 2022

Clinical studies indicate that the consumption of soybean protein might reduce cholesterol and LDL levels preventing the development of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases. However, soybean variety can influence soybean protein profile and therefore affect soybean protein health-promoting properties. This study investigated the composition and effects of nineteen soybean varieties digested under simulated gastrointestinal conditions on hepatic cholesterol metabolism and LDL oxidation in vitro. Soybean varieties exhibited a differential protein hydrolysis during gastrointestinal digestion. Soybean varieties could be classified according to their composition (high/low glycinin:β-conglycinin ratio) and capacity to inhibit HMGCR (IC50 from 59 to 229 µg protein mL−1). According to multivariate analyses, five soybean varieties were selected. These soybean varieties produced different peptide profiles and differently reduced cholesterol concentration (43–55%) by inhibiting HMGCR in fatty-acid-stimulated HepG2 hepatocytes. Selected digested soybean varieties inhibited cholesterol esterification, triglyceride production, VLDL secretion, and LDL recycling by reducing ANGPTL3 and PCSK9 and synchronously increasing LDLR expression. In addition, selected soybean varieties hindered LDL oxidation, reducing the formation of lipid peroxidation early (conjugated dienes) and end products (malondialdehyde and 4-hydroxynonenal). The changes in HMGCR expression, cholesterol esterification, triglyceride accumulation, ANGPTL3 release, and malondialdehyde formation during LDL oxidation were significantly (p < 0.05) correlated with the glycinin:β-conglycinin ratio. Soybean varieties with lower glycinin:β-conglycinin exhibited a better potential in regulating cholesterol and LDL homeostasis in vitro. Consumption of soybean flour with a greater proportion of β-conglycinin may, consequently, improve the potential of the food ingredient to maintain healthy liver cholesterol homeostasis and cardiovascular function.
The Chemistry and the Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Polymethoxyflavonoids from Citrus Genus
Authors: Fontana Gianfranco , Bruno Maurizio , Sottile Francesco , Badalamenti Natale
Published: December 2022

Polymethoxyflavonoids (PMFs) are a large group of compounds belonging to the more general class of flavonoids that possess a flavan carbon framework decorated with a variable number of methoxy groups. Hydroxylated polymethoxyflavonoids (HPMFs), instead, are characterized by the presence of both hydroxyl and methoxy groups in their structural unities. Some of these compounds are the aglycone part in a glycoside structure in which the glycosidic linkage can involve the −OH at various positions. These compounds are particular to Citrus genus plants, especially in fruits, and they are present mainly in the peel. A considerable number of PMFs and HPMFs have shown promising biological activities and they are considered to be important nutraceuticals, responsible for some of the known beneficial effects on health associated with a regular consumption of Citrus fruits. Among their several actions on human health, it is notable that the relevant contribution in controlling the intracellular redox imbalance is associated with the inflammation processes. In this work, we aim to describe the status concerning the chemical identification and the anti-inflammatory activity of both PMFs and HPMFs. In particular, all of the chemical entities unambiguously identified by isolation and complete NMR analysis, and for which a biochemical evaluation on the pure compound was performed, are included in this paper.
Molecular Antioxidant Functions are Enhanced in Atlantic Bluefin Tuna (Thunnus Thynnus, L.) Larvae Fed Selenium-Enriched Rotifers Brachionus Rotundiformis
Authors: Wischhusen Pauline , Betancor Mónica B. , Sprague Matthew , Ortega Aurelio , de la Gándara Fernando , Tocher Douglas R. , Mourente Gabriel
Published: December 2022

Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element for fish with more than 40 selenoproteins identified, many exhibiting antioxidant functions. This study investigated the effect of dietary Se supplementation on physiological parameters, selenoprotein and antioxidant enzyme gene expression in Atlantic bluefin tuna (ABT, Thunnus thynnus) larvae. First-feeding ABT larvae were divided into triplicate groups and fed rotifers Brachionus rotundiformis enriched with five different levels of Se (0, 3, 10, 30, and 100 µg Se·L−1) until 14 days after hatching. Both rotifers and ABT larvae effectively accumulated Se achieving maximum levels in the Se100 treatment (30.05 μg Se·g−1 and 194 ± 38 μg Se·g−1 dry mass, respectively). Larvae showed highest total length when fed Se3 rotifers, whereas flexion index was highest in larvae fed Se10. Selenium supplementation increased the gene expression of selenoproteins gpx1, msrb1, trxr2, selenom, selenop, and selenoe compared to the non-supplemented control (Se0), but only marginal differences were detected between supplementation levels. In contrast, expression of the antioxidant enzymes cat and sod1 were lowest in larvae fed Se100. To conclude, non-Se-enriched rotifers may be suboptimal for first feeding ABT larvae, which showed improved selenoprotein and antioxidant gene expression when fed a diet containing 4.42 μg Se·g−1 dry mass.
An Efficient Prediction System for Coronary Heart Disease Risk Using Selected Principal Components and Hyperparameter Optimization
Authors: Reddy Karna Vishnu Vardhana , Elamvazuthi Irraivan , Aziz Azrina Abd , Paramasivam Sivajothi , Chua Hui Na , Pranavanand Satyamurthy
Published: December 2022

Medical science-related studies have reinforced that the prevalence of coronary heart disease which is associated with the heart and blood vessels has been the most significant cause of health loss and death globally. Recently, data mining and machine learning have been used to detect diseases based on the unique characteristics of a person. However, these techniques have often posed challenges due to the complexity in understanding the objective of the datasets, the existence of too many factors to analyze as well as lack of performance accuracy. This research work is of two-fold effort: firstly, feature extraction and selection. This entails extraction of the principal components, and consequently, the Correlation-based Feature Selection (CFS) method was applied to select the finest principal components of the combined (Cleveland and Statlog) heart dataset. Secondly, by applying datasets to three single and three ensemble classifiers, the best hyperparameters that reflect the pre-eminent predictive outcomes were investigated. The experimental result reveals that hyperparameter optimization has improved the accuracy of all the models. In the comparative studies, the proposed work outperformed related works with an accuracy of 97.91%, and an AUC of 0.996 by employing six optimal principal components selected from the CFS method and optimizing parameters of the Rotation Forest ensemble classifier.
Review of the Research Progress in Soft Robots
Authors: Liu Kerun , Chen Weiwei , Yang Weimin , Jiao Zhiwei , Yu Yuan
Published: December 2022

The soft robot is a new type of robot with strong adaptability, good pliability, and high flexibility. Today, it is widely used in the fields of bioengineering, disaster rescue, industrial production, medical services, exploration, and surveying. In this paper, the typical driven methods, 3D printing technologies, applications, the existed problems, and the development prospects for soft robots are summarized comprehensively. Firstly, the driven methods and materials of the soft robot are introduced, including fluid driven, smart materials driven, chemical reaction driven, a twisted and coiled polymer actuator, and so on. Secondly, the basic principles and characteristics of mainstream 3D printing technologies for soft materials are introduced, including FDM, DIW, IP, SLA, SLS, and so on. Then, current applications of soft robots, such as bionic structures, gripping operations, and medical rehabilitation are described. Finally, the problems existing in the development of soft robots, such as the shortage of 3D printable soft materials, efficient and effective manufacturing of soft robots, shortage of smart soft materials, efficient use of energy, the realization of complex motion forms of soft robot, control action accuracy and actual kinematic modeling are summarized. Based on the above, some suggestions are put forward pertinently, and the future development and applications of the soft robot are prospected.
Effects of Vibration on Adjacent Pipelines under Blasting Excavation
Authors: Qin Tiange , Wu Mingze , Jia Lin , Xie Lingli , Wu Li
Published: December 2022

Exploring a pipeline’s response to blast vibration during tunnel excavation is critical for ensuring the safety of the pipeline. In this paper, the vibration monitoring and numerical simulation methods are used to evaluate the dynamic response of ground soil and pipelines to blasts. The attenuation law of peak particle velocity (PPV) and the distribution characteristics of peak effective stress (PES) in pipe sections under different working conditions are studied. The following findings are recorded: (1) A three-dimensional model considering in situ stress is established, and it is found the triangular equivalent load simulation blast effect method used in this paper can effectively reflect the impact of blasting on pipelines. The simulation error is controlled at 7.69%. (2) The ground PPV of each monitoring point decays continuously with the increase in horizontal and axial distance, and the cavity enlargement effect is exhibited above the excavation area. The oncoming blast side PPV of the pipe section is more significant than that behind the blast side. (3) When the blast vibration is transmitted to the pipe, there are differences in the PPV and PES distribution characteristics across the pipe cross-section. The PPV is greater in the lower part of the pipe section, while the PES value is greater in the upper part of the pipe section. The maximum PES of 1.53 MPa is significantly lower than the safety threshold (≤4.6 MPa) at the hazardous-section-monitoring point. (4) A pipeline PPV prediction model is proposed to guide subsequent blasting program development. An empirical formula for the safety criterion applicable to this study is proposed for the scientific implementation of safety assessments for subsequent construction. This safety evaluation framework can be used as a reference for similar projects.
Stress-Strain Characteristics and Mineralogy of an Expansive Soil Stabilized Using Lime and Phosphogypsum
Authors: James Jijo , Vijayasimhan Sivapriya , Eyo Eyo
Published: December 2022

The study involved the utilization of an industrial waste product, Phosphogypsum (PG) as an additive to lime for the stabilization of soil. Three lime dosages, viz. initial consumption of lime (ICL), optimum lime content (OLC) and less than ICL (LICL) were adopted for stabilizing the soil. The study investigated the stress-strain characteristics of soil composites stabilized with these three lime contents modified with optimum dosages of PG. Mineralogical studies were performed on the spent samples used for a series of determinations of unconfined compression strength tests with various combinations of lime and optimum PG content. The addition of an optimum dosage of PG resulted in an early strength gain of 8.8%, 14.1% and 13.9% and a delayed strength gain of 9.9%, 19% and 19.7% for 3%, 5.5% and 7% for the lime-stabilized soil, respectively. It was found that the addition of PG to the lime resulted in enhanced stiffness, residual strength and reduced brittleness due to the PG amendment of the stabilization reactions. However, in terms of the overall improvement of soil properties, the most favorable benefit was obtained by optimal PG modification of ICL rather than OLC. Microanalysis of the X-ray diffraction scatter also supported the results revealed through stress-strain characteristics. ICL with its optimal PG dosage showed a better progression of pozzolanic reactions when compared to the other two in terms of reduction of peaks of soil minerals and increase in peaks of CSH.
Travel Equity between Relocatees and Non-Relocatees before and after a Shopping Plaza’s Opening in the Megacity-Peripheral Large-Scale-Residential Area: A Case in Shanghai, China
Authors: Guan Jinping , Zhang Kai , Zhang Jiayue , Zhong Xiaofeng
Published: December 2022

In Chinese megacity centers, substandard housing is being removed. The inhabitants are relocated to peripheral large-scale residential areas, and we call them “relocatees”. After the relocation, their housing quality is improved but travel quality may worsen. Little attention has been paid to the change in travel equity over time for shopping-related trips of relocatees and non-relocatees in these areas in rapidly developing countries, especially for the change before and after the major built environment development, such as a shopping plaza’s opening. To fill this research gap, we conducted two surveys before and after Wanda Shopping Plaza’s opening. We used statistical analysis, estimated discrete choice models focusing on mode choice, and calculated consumer surplus as a measurement of travel equity. Results show a relocatee has a lower travel quality for shopping-related trips. Travel equity between relocatees and non-relocatees for shopping-related trips becomes worse after Wanda’s opening. Differences in consumer surplus between relocatees and non-relocatees provide a reference for the travel subsidy policy.