bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of omega-3 fatty acids supplementation on lipid levels in pregnant women with previous pregnancy losses: a retrospective longitudinal study
Authors: Mu Fangxiang , Wang Weijing , Liu Lin , Hu Ning , Wang Fang
Published: August 2024

Objective

This research aims to investigate the impact of omega-3 fatty acids supplementation on the lipid levels of pregnant women who have experienced pregnancy losses.

Methods

This retrospective study analyzed data from pregnant women with previous pregnancy losses from two medical centers. Their lipid profiles were measured at least twice during pregnancy. According to the use of omega-3 soft gel capsules, participants were divided into the omega-3 group and the control group. We assessed the relationship between omega-3 fatty acids supplementation and longitudinal lipid levels during pregnancy using generalized estimating equations (GEE). Subsequently, we conducted subgroup analyses to delineate the profile of beneficiaries who received omega-3 fatty acids based on body mass index (BMI), age, menstrual regularity, number of previous pregnancy losses, number of previous live births, and educational level.

Results

The omega-3 group included 105 participants, while the control group comprised 274 participants. Women in the omega-3 group started supplementation between 3.43 and 17.14 weeks of gestation. According to GEE analysis, supplementing omega-3 fatty acids significantly reduced triglyceride (TG) levels during pregnancy (adjusted β = −0.300, 95% CI -0.445 to −0.154, p < 0.001). No associations between omega-3 fatty acids supplementation and total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), or high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels were observed. Subgroup analyses revealed that omega-3 fatty acids supplementation was related to a reduction in TG levels among pregnant women with age of ≤35 years, a normal BMI (18.5–24.9 kg/m2), 1–2 previous pregnancy losses, no previous live births, or an educational level above high school.

Conclusion

Supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids may significantly reduce TG levels, yet it does not seem to improve TC, LDL-C, or HDL-C levels in pregnant women with previous pregnancy losses.
Application and research progress of single cell sequencing technology in leukemia
Authors: Xie Dan , An Bangquan , Yang Mingyue , Wang Lei , Guo Min , Luo Heng , Huang Shengwen , Sun Fa
Published: August 2024

Leukemia is a malignant tumor with high heterogeneity and a complex evolutionary process. It is difficult to resolve the heterogeneity and clonal evolution of leukemia cells by applying traditional bulk sequencing techniques, thus preventing a deep understanding of the mechanisms of leukemia development and the identification of potential therapeutic targets. However, with the development and application of single-cell sequencing technology, it is now possible to investigate the gene expression profile, mutations, and epigenetic features of leukemia at the single-cell level, thus providing a new perspective for leukemia research. In this article, we review the recent applications and advances of single-cell sequencing technology in leukemia research, discuss its potential for enhancing our understanding of the mechanisms of leukemia development, discovering therapeutic targets and personalized treatment, and provide reference guidelines for the significance of this technology in clinical research.
A CT-based diagnostic nomogram and survival analysis for differentiating grade 3 pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors from pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas
Authors: Hu Miaomiao , Lv Lulu , Dong Hongfeng
Published: August 2024

Objective

To construct a CT-based diagnostic nomogram for distinguishing grade 3 pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (G3 PNETs) from pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas (PDACs) and assess their respective survival outcomes.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with G3 PNETs (n = 30) and PDACs (n = 78) through surgery or biopsy from two medical centers were retrospectively identified. Demographic and radiological information, including age, gender, tumor diameter, shape, margin, dilatation of pancreatic duct, and invasive behavior, were carefully collected. A nomogram was established after univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. The Kaplan–Meier survival was performed to analyze their survival outcomes.

Results

Factors with a p-value <0.05, including age, CA 19-9, pancreatic duct dilatation, irregular shape, ill-defined margin, pancreatic atrophy, combined pancreatitis, arterial/portal enhancement ratio, were included in the multivariate logistic analysis. The independent predictive factors, including age (OR, 0.91; 95% CI, 0.85–0.98), pancreatic duct dilatation (OR, 0.064; 95% CI, 0.01–0.32), and portal enhancement ratio (OR, 1,178.08; 95% CI, 5.96–232,681.2) were determined to develop a nomogram. The internal calibration curve and decision curve analysis demonstrate that the nomogram exhibits good consistency and discriminative capacity in distinguishing G3 PNETs from PDACs. Patients diagnosed with G3 PNETs exhibited considerably better overall survival outcomes compared to those diagnosed with PDACs (median survival months, 42 vs. 9 months, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The nomogram model based on age, pancreatic duct dilatation, and portal enhancement ratio demonstrates good accuracy and discriminative ability effectively predicting the probability of G3 PNETs from PDACs. Furthermore, patients with G3 PNETs exhibit better prognosis than PDACs.
AFK-PD alleviated osteoarthritis progression by chondroprotective and anti-inflammatory activity
Authors: Qian Zhuang , Xu Jie , Zhang Lei , Deng Qian , Fan Zhenlin , Guo Xueqiang , Liang Zhuo , Wang Weiyun , Wang Lei , Liao Xiaohua , Ren Wenjie
Published: August 2024

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most prevalent cartilage degenerative and low-grade inflammatory disease of the whole joint. However, there are currently no FDA-approved drugs or global regulatory agency-approved treatments OA disease modification. Therefore, it’s essential to explore novel effective therapeutic strategies for OA. In our study, we investigated the effects of AFK-PD, a novel pyridone agent, on the development of OA induced by destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM) in vivo, and its impact on the function of chondrocytes treated with IL-1β in vitro. Our results demonstrated AFK-PD alleviated OA progression through inhibiting cartilage degeneration, articular inflammation and osteophyte formation. Notably, AFK-PD inhibited chondrocyte inflammation and synovial macrophage M1 polarization, leading to the attenuation of articular inflammation. Additionally, AFK-PD promoted chondrocyte anabolism while mitigating catabolism and apoptosis, effectively inhibiting cartilage degeneration. Mechanistically, AFK-PD suppressed the expression of key signaling molecules involved in the MAPK pathway, such as p-ERK1/2 and p-JNK, as well as the NF-κB signaling molecule p-p65, in IL-1β-induced chondrocytes. These findings suggest AFK-PD ameliorates the development of OA by protecting chondrocyte functions and inhibiting articular inflammation in chondrocytes and synovial macrophages. Overall, our study highlights AFK-PD as a promising therapeutic candidate for the treatment of OA.
Sex differences in opioid response: a role for the gut microbiome?
Authors: Han Caitlin , Manners Melissa T. , Robinson Shivon A.
Published: August 2024

Opioid drugs have been long known to induce different responses in males compared to females, however, the molecular mechanisms underlying these effects are yet to be fully characterized. Recent studies have established a link between the gut microbiome and behavioral responses to opioids. Chronic opioid use is associated with gut dysbiosis, or microbiome disruptions, which is thought to contribute to altered opioid analgesia and reward processing. Gut microbiome composition and functioning have also been demonstrated to be influenced by sex hormones. Despite this, there is currently very little work investigating whether sex differences in the gut microbiome mediate sex-dependent responses to opioids, highlighting a critical gap in the literature. Here, we briefly review the supporting evidence implicating a potential role for the gut microbiome in regulating sexually dimorphic opioid response and identify areas for future research.
Embodied earth kinship: interoceptive awareness and relational attachment personal factors predict nature connectedness in a structural model of nature connection
Authors: Branham Lindsay
Published: August 2024

Previous research has found that nature connectedness, an experiential close connection to nature with cognitive, affective and physical benefits, profoundly impacts individual wellbeing and subsequently increases pro-environmental behaviors. However, little is known about the personal and contextual factors that predict nature connectedness. Testing theory derived from a qualitative interpretative phenomenological analysis study, this research addresses the lacuna in the literature. A structural equation model analysis finds that interoceptive awareness significantly predicts nature connection, that secure attachment to nature significantly explains this relationship, and that these inter-related constructs predict both pro-environmental behavior and wellbeing. This revised model of nature connection indicates important antecedents for the human-nature bond, illuminating in particular that the interpersonal relational processes foundational for close bonding with humans also occur in bonding with nature. Structural equation modeling indicates that emotional awareness is the dimension of interoceptive awareness that most significantly predicts nature connection, suggesting that the more aware a person is of the connection between inner bodily sensations and emotions, the more likely they can bond with nature. Given that interoceptive awareness indicates a coherent relationship with the self, including effective communication between body, mind and feelings, this process is therefore implicated in the capacity for humans to bond with nature. In sum, this present research points to the efficacy of an embodied, secure attachment with nature to help close both the human-nature disconnection chasm, and the environmental value-action gap. Theoretical and methodological implications for research and policy are discussed.
Path analysis of influencing factors for anxiety and depression among first-trimester pregnant women
Authors: Li Wenjuan , Lin Leshi , Teng Sheng , Yang Yi , Li Li , Peng Fang , Peng Dongmei , Gao Xiao , Huang Guojun
Published: August 2024

Background

Prenatal anxiety and depression exert a significant influence on the physiological and psychological health outcomes of both expectant mothers and their infants. The aim of this study was to explore the intrinsic relationships between maternal anxiety, depression in early pregnancy, and their influencing factors. The findings of this study provide scientific basis for developing targeted preventive interventions.

Methods

The study involved 887 expectant mothers in the early stages of pregnancy residing in Changsha City from March to August 2022. The sociodemographic characteristics, health and lifestyle factors, and pregnancy-related factors of participants were collected. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale and the Self-Rating Anxiety Scale were used to assess depression and anxiety, respectively. Chi-square tests and multivariate logistic regression models using SPSS 26.0 were used to assess factors impacting early pregnancy anxiety and depression. Amos 23.0 was used to construct a path model to determine the potential pathways of the influencing factors.

Results

In early pregnancy, the prevalence of depression and anxiety were 17.4% and 15.8%, respectively. Path analysis showed that early pregnancy anxiety and illness during pregnancy had a direct effect on early pregnancy depression. Anxiety had the greatest overall impact on early pregnancy depression. Education, maternal comorbidities, symptoms of pregnancy, electronic device usage time, work stress, active smoking in the 6 months before pregnancy, and sleep quality were found to solely exert indirect effects on early pregnancy depression. Sleep quality had the greatest overall impact on early pregnancy anxiety. Active smoking in the 6 months before pregnancy, sleep quality, and work stress only had a direct impact on early pregnancy anxiety. Additionally, electronic device usage duration and monthly per capita household income exclusively indirectly impacted symptoms of early pregnancy anxiety.

Conclusion

The study highlights the importance of targeted interventions in early screening. Avoiding excessive use of electronic devices and active smoking in the 6 months before pregnancy, alleviating work stress and symptoms of pregnancy, increasing education levels and monthly per capita household income, improving sleep quality, and actively preventing illnesses during pregnancy and maternal comorbidities might reduce anxiety and depression in early pregnancy.
Influence of physical activity on problematic smartphone use in medical students: mediating effects of social anxiety and the moderating role of gender
Authors: Song Yanhong , Zhang Guofeng , Liu Ningning , Zhang Yaqi , Zhai Jinghua , Niu Xingmeng , Liu Yan
Published: August 2024

Objective

This study investigates the mediating role of social anxiety in the relationship between physical activity and problematic smartphone use among college students, and examines the moderating role of gender within this model.

Methods

From April to May 2023, a survey was conducted involving 2905 undergraduate students from various medical schools in Shandong, China. Participants completed the Physical Activity Rating Scale (PARS-3), Mobile Phone Addiction Tendency Scale for College Students (MPATS), and the Social Anxiety Scale (IAS). Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and hierarchical regression analysis and other methods were employed to explore the relationships between the variables. The mediating effect of social anxiety on physical activity and mobile phone addiction was assessed using the bootstrapping method, while the moderating role of gender on social anxiety and mobile phone addiction was evaluated using the PROCESS macro's model 14.

Results

The findings revealed that the scores of problematic smartphone use among medical students was 44.00 (35.00, 50.00), physical activity score was 16.00 (8.00, 32.00), and social anxiety score was 45.00 (42.00, 52.00). Physical activity was significantly and negatively correlated with both problematic smartphone use and social anxiety (P < 0.001), and social anxiety was significantly and positively correlated with problematic smartphone use (P < 0.001). Social anxiety partially mediated the effect between physical activity and problematic smartphone use (β = −0.04, 95%CI = −0.05 to −0.02), with a mediation effect proportion of 57.14%. Sex played a moderating role between social anxiety and problematic smartphone use (β = −0.30, 95%CI = −0.39 to −0.21).

Conclusion

Physical activity influences problematic smartphone use among medical students both directly and indirectly through social anxiety. Sex significantly moderates the influence of social anxiety on problematic smartphone use, highlighting the need for gender-specific interventions in this demographic.
The daily association between positive affect and psychotic experiences in individuals along the early stages of the psychosis continuum
Authors: van der Tuin Sara , Staines Lorna , Morosan Larisa , Raposo de Almeida Esdras , van den Berg David , Booij Sanne H. , Oldehinkel Albertine J. , Wigman Johanna T. W.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Psychosis often develops gradually along a continuum of severity. Little is known about the role of protective factors such as positive affect (PA) in the development of psychotic experiences (PEs). This study investigated i) the temporal (between-day) and contemporaneous (within-day) daily associations between PA and PEs in individuals at different early clinical stages for psychosis and ii) whether these associations differed per clinical stage.

Methods

Daily diary data for 90 days came from 96 individuals at risk for psychosis, distributed over four subgroups defined according to the clinical staging model (stages 0–1b). We constructed multilevel models with PA as a predictor of PEs and vice versa. We investigated within- and between-person temporal and contemporaneous associations and tested whether these associations differed among early stages with multilevel moderation analyses.

Results

We found no within-person temporal effects between PA and PEs in either direction. Contemporaneously, current-day PA predicted current-day PEs (B = −0.14, p < 0.001) and vice versa (B = −0.61, p < 0.001). Between persons, more 90-day PA predicted fewer PEs in the temporal model (B = −0.14, p = 0.03). In addition, more 90-day PEs predicted PA in the temporal (B = −0.26, p < 0.001) and contemporaneous (B = −0.36, p < 0.001) models. The contemporaneous association between PA and PEs was stronger in individuals at ultra-high risk (UHR) for psychosis than in earlier stages.

Discussion

Our study supported a significant within-day, bidirectional relationship between PA and PEs. This suggests that a focus on PA and methods to improve PA may be an important addition to early intervention practices, particularly in those at UHR for psychosis.
Case report: Personalizing the use of trazodone in real-world patients: a study of three cases of depression with comorbidities
Authors: Rosso Gianluca , Benatti Beatrice , Pettorruso Mauro , Sampogna Gaia , Tomasetti Carmine
Published: August 2024

Depressive disorders are leading contributors to the global mental health-related burden, and they represent a challenge for real-world clinicians, due to the low rates of remission despite the high availability of treatments. Often, depression shows in the context of multiple chronic comorbidities, thus requiring precise and accurate management of pharmacological treatments to avoid interactions and side effects. These criticalities call for the need for new strategies of treatment, which may include new insights into the pharmacological properties of currently available antidepressant drugs, to enhance their efficacy in the different contexts in which depression may arise. Trazodone is the prototype serotonin antagonist/reuptake inhibitor antidepressant (SARI). Due to the malleability granted by its multiple formulations, trazodone is frequently used to treat depression, both as an add-on to other antidepressants and as a monotherapy, with satisfying results. Moreover, its tolerability makes it one of the most prescribed antidepressants in patients with poly-treated comorbid medical illnesses, especially in the elderly. Herein, a case series is presented regarding the use of trazodone in patients with complex comorbid diagnoses or distressing side effects. Each of the three cases has been discussed in three specific Round Tables, involving expert clinicians in the fields of Psychiatry, Neurology, General Practice, and Geriatrics using the Nominal Group Technique. The ideas collected have been used to integrate the cases and the discussion with the intent of facilitating accessibility to the widest audience of physicians and clinical workers in different clinical practice contexts. The final aim of this paper is to promote an increasingly personalized use of trazodone in real-world patients with depression.
Human resource allocation status and equity research of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in China from 2016 to 2020
Authors: Shao Shen , Niu Kunzai , Qi Xinye , Li Fangshi , Wang Li , Sheng Yawei , Qiu Xinyu , Li Yi , Du Yue , Fan Haojun
Published: August 2024

Background

In recent years, the development of global public health has become a matter of great concern and importance for governments worldwide. China, as the largest developing country, plays a crucial role in shaping the development of the public health and its ability to respond to sudden public health emergencies through the fairness of its human resource allocation in center for disease control and prevention (CDC).

Objective

This study aims to analyze the situation of health human resource allocation in the China Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (China CDCs), assess the fairness of the allocation, and provide reference for the rational allocation of human resources.

Methods

We selected data from the China Health Statistics Yearbook on healthcare technical personnel, other technical personnel, managerial personnel, and workforce technical personnel of China CDCs for the period of 2016–2020. We utilized the Health Resource Density Index to evaluate the level of human resource allocation in China CDCs. Additionally, we used the Gini coefficient and Theil index to assess the fairness of human resource allocation in China CDCs from both a population and geographical perspective.

Results

Firstly, the educational qualifications and professional titles of CDC staff have improved, but the workforce is aging. Secondly, HRDI development trends vary among different personnel types and regions with varying levels of economic development. Finally, the results of the Gini coefficient and Theil index indicate that population distribution fairness is better than geographical distribution fairness. Overall, the unfair population distribution is primarily due to regional disparities.

Conclusion

The China CDCs should tailor different standards for the allocation of health human resources based on regional characteristics, aiming to enhance the accessibility of health human resources in various regions and achieve equitable allocation.
Investigating the influencing factors of vaccination decisions for newly developed and established vaccines: a comparative study based on latent class logit models in China
Authors: Chang Shiyun , Xu Biao , Xi Hailing , Shao Yifan
Published: August 2024

Background

The factors influencing vaccination decision-making for newly developed vaccines may be similar to and different from those for established vaccines. Understanding these underlying differences and similarities is crucial for designing targeted measures to promote new vaccines against potential novel viruses.

Objective

This study aims to compare public vaccination decisions for newly developed and established vaccines and to identify the differences and similarities in the influencing factors.

Method

A discrete choice experiment (DCE) was conducted on 1,509 representatives of the general population in China to collect data on preferences for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and influenza vaccines, representing the newly developed and established vaccines, respectively. The latent class logit model was used to identify latent classes within the sample, allowing for an analysis of the factors distinctly influencing choices for both types of vaccines.

Result

Participants valued similar attributes for both vaccines. However, concerns about sequelae were more significant for the newly developed vaccine, while effectiveness was prioritized for the established vaccine. Class membership analysis revealed these differences and similarities were significantly correlated with age, health, yearly household income, acquaintances’ vaccination status, and risk perception.

Conclusion

The study highlights the need for tailored communication strategies and targeted vaccination interventions. For the newly developed vaccines, addressing concerns about side effects is more crucial. For long-standing vaccines, emphasizing their effectiveness can enhance uptake more significantly. Engaging healthcare providers and community influencers is essential for both vaccines to increase public confidence and vaccination rates. Clear communication and community engagement are critical strategies for addressing public concerns and misinformation, particularly during periods of heightened concern.
Effects of a new continuous nursing program on the short-term and long-term low back pain in patients after UBED: a retrospective study based on 282 patients
Authors: Li Jucai , Song Yanli , Wu Lumei , Su Dan , Wang Lin-Feng
Published: August 2024

Background

Unilateral biportal endoscopic discectomy (UBED) is a widely accepted minimally invasive surgery for the treatment of lumbar degenerative diseases. However, some patients continue to have persistent low back pain (LBP) symptoms in the short and long term after surgery, which may be related to improper postoperative nursing and rehabilitation of patients. Further research is needed to determine whether continuous nursing can improve the symptoms of patients after UBED.

Methods

This study retrospectively enrolled 282 lumbar disc herniation (LDH) patients who underwent UBED in our hospital from January 2019 to January 2022. The patients were divided into two groups according to whether they accepted the continuous nursing program: 147 patients in the traditional nursing group and 135 patients in the continuous nursing group. Demographic characteristics, radiological parameters, and follow-up data of the patients were collected. Finally, the risk factors of LBP after UBED were analyzed.

Results

The visual analog scale (VAS) score of LBP in the continuous nursing group was 0.97 ± 1.159 at 3 months and 0.61 ± 0.954 at 12 months after operation, and VAS of leg pain was 0.23 ± 0.421 at 12 months after operation, which were better than those in the traditional nursing group (1.51 ± 1.313, 1.10 ± 1.076, 0.68 ± 0.788, respectively, p < 0.001) The Oswestry disability index (ODI) score of the continuous nursing group was lower than that of the traditional nursing group at 12 months after operation (7.36 ± 6.526 vs. 12.43 ± 6.942, p < 0.001). The rehabilitation completion (7.98 ± 1.857), efficacy satisfaction (9.13 ± 1.101), and re-herniation worry scores (1.97 ± 1.217) in the continuous nursing group were better than those in the traditional nursing group (4.14 ± 3.066, 8.28 ± 1.240, 2.79 ± 1.973, respectively, P < 0.001). The re-herniation rate within 1 year was similar between the two groups (3/135 vs. 2/147, p = 0.673). No incision infection occurred. Multivariate regression analysis showed that risk factors for persistent LBP at 3-month follow-up were degenerative disc [odds ratio (OR): 2.144, CI: 1.306–3.519, p = 0.03], Pfirrmann grade (OR: 3.073, CI: 1.427–6.614, p = 0.04), and surgical time (OR: 0.969, CI: 0.937–1.003, p = 0.74). At the 12-month follow-up, the risk factors for persistent LBP were preoperative VAS of the legs (OR: 1.261, CI: 1.000–1.591, p = 0.05) and Pfirrmann grade (OR: 3.309, CI: 1.460–7.496, p = 0.04).

Conclusion

Continuous nursing programs can improve the symptoms of short-term and long-term persistent LBP in patients after UBED, enhance the completion of rehabilitation training after UBED, alleviate patients' concerns about recurrence, and improve patients' satisfaction.
Pastoral coping and adaptive management strategies to climate change in communal areas in Namibia and South Africa
Authors: Ntombela Khululiwe Primrose , Angula Margaret , Samuels Igshaan , Cupido Clement , Swarts Melvin , Menjono-Katjizeu Ewaldine , Inman Emilia , Nakanyala Jesaya
Published: August 2024

Climate change has brought about credible changes in arid landscapes which have resulted in further challenges for pastoralists who require good quality rangeland resources to sustain their livestock. This study assessed local level coping and adaptive management strategies by pastoralists in Namibia and South Africa using a capital assets approach, and also explored non-climate related barriers that increase their vulnerability to climate change. A case study approach was used, which included focus group discussions and semi-structured interviews. The main findings of the research indicate that pastoralists have been exposed to increased temperature extremes and droughts of varying duration over time which reduced the quality and quantity of forage and resulted in losses of income and animal health. The 46 different coping and adaptation strategies used by pastoralists included financial (n = 15), natural (n = 15), human (n = 12), physical (n = 2) and social (n = 2) capital. Of these, 61% of the strategies were common between the two countries. Strategies included income diversification, supplementary feeding and livestock mobility. Pastoralists had to overcome a hierarchy of barriers to implement their coping and adaptation strategies, which were largely related to human capital in Namibia and to natural capital in South Africa. These barriers included a lack of access to grazing lands, land degradation and the loss of traditional knowledge to manage livestock and rangeland resources. Policy development should take these barriers into account while building on the foundation of existing adaptation strategies to reduce the vulnerability to climate change of pastoralists in dryland regions.
Research Progress on Autonomous Operation Technology for Agricultural Equipment in Large Fields
Authors: Wei Wenbo , Xiao Maohua , Duan Weiwei , Wang Hui , Zhu Yejun , Zhai Cheng , Geng Guosheng
Published: August 2024

Agriculture is a labor-intensive industry. However, with the demographic shift toward an aging population, agriculture is increasingly confronted with a labor shortage. The technology for autonomous operation of agricultural equipment in large fields can improve productivity and reduce labor intensity, which can help alleviate the impact of population aging on agriculture. Nevertheless, significant challenges persist in the practical application of this technology, particularly concerning adaptability, operational precision, and efficiency. This review seeks to systematically explore the advancements in unmanned agricultural operations, with a focus on onboard environmental sensing, full-coverage path planning, and autonomous operational control technologies. Additionally, this review discusses the challenges and future directions of key technologies for the autonomous operation of agricultural equipment in large fields. This review aspires to serve as a foundational reference for the development of autonomous operation technologies for large-scale agricultural equipment.
Online Detection of Loading Capacity in Mechanized Pepper Harvesting Using Ultrasonic Sensors
Authors: Liu Haowei , Wang Xiu , Song Jian , Chen Mingzhou , Li Cuiling , Zhai Changyuan
Published: August 2024

This study addresses the challenge of scheduling coordination between harvesters and transfer vehicles during the mechanized harvesting of processing peppers. An online detection method for assessing the loading capacity during harvesting was proposed, employing non-contact distance sensors to measure the stacking height of peppers in the hopper in real time. This measurement was used to calculate the loading capacity of the transfer vehicle for peppers. This study compared and analyzed the detection accuracy of ultrasonic, infrared distance, and light detection and ranging sensors to identify the most suitable sensor for detecting the stacking height of peppers, and establish an optimal detection model for the loading capacity of peppers in transfer vehicles. The results indicated that ultrasonic sensors achieved the highest accuracy, with a maximum absolute error of 11.0 mm and a standard deviation of 8.5 mm in detecting the stacking height of peppers. When three symmetrically mounted ultrasonic sensors were used, the maximum error and standard deviation for the mean stacking height under varying lifting speeds were 37.0 mm and 15.5 mm, respectively. The developed model’s relative error in detecting the pepper loading capacity decreased to less than 2% when the fed volume exceeded 0.4 m3. These findings provide a basis for scheduling decisions in the coordination of pepper harvesters and transfer vehicles.
Optimizing Fertilization Strategies to Promote Leaf-Use Ginkgo Productivity and Ecosystem Economic Benefits: An Integrated Evaluation of a Field Trial in Southern China
Authors: Xiao Mengrui , Chu Shuangshuang , Zheng Fenglin , Xian Lihua , Lu Jie , Liao Dandan , Ouyang Jianhui , Long Mandi , Jacobs Douglass F. , Hu Dongnan , Zeng Shucai
Published: August 2024

Field experiments were conducted on a four-year-old leaf-use ginkgo plantation in southern China to assess the impact of nine different fertilization strategies with varying N-P2O5-K2O rates at three growth phases (FBD: March for bud development; FLG: May for leaf growth; FLS: July for leaf strengthening) on leaf-use ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba L.) leaf productivity and ecological economic benefits (EEBs). The results indicated that regardless of timing and rate, fertilizer application led to an increase in leaf area and thickness, resulting in higher ginkgo leaf yield. The highest fresh (215.14 g tree−1) and dry (78.83 g tree−1) yields were observed with 3 g N + 2.5 g P2O5 + 1.5 g K2O tree−1 in FLG. FLS was found to mitigate the decline in SPAD values of leaves during late summer. Furthermore, fertilized ginkgo trees exhibited higher flavonoid concentrations in leaves, enhancing profitability. However, higher fertilizer rates were associated with elevated greenhouse gas emissions, nitrogen losses and ecological costs. Despite these drawbacks, all fertilization treatments resulted in increased net economic income. Specifically, compared to no fertilization, FBD, FLG and FLS treatments boosted net income by 3.5~26.6%, 11.6~60.5% and 5.8~35.4%, respectively. Using the entropy weight TOPSIS method, it was concluded that optimizing the N, P and K fertilization rate and timing (applying 3–2.5–1.5 g tree−1 of N-P2O5-K2O in May) is a beneficial approach to maximize EEBs and industrial benefits in leaf-use ginkgo plantations in southern China. This study provides valuable insights into suitable fertilization patterns and management for leaf-use ginkgo plantations in southern China.
Distribution of Bovine Mastitis Pathogens in Quarter Milk Samples from Bavaria, Southern Germany, between 2014 and 2023—A Retrospective Study
Authors: Bechtold Verena , Petzl Wolfram , Huber-Schlenstedt Reglindis , Sorge Ulrike S.
Published: August 2024

The objective of this study was to investigate the distribution of mastitis pathogens in quarter milk samples (QMSs) submitted to the laboratory of the Bavarian Animal Health Service (TGD) between 2014 and 2023 in general, in relation to the clinical status of the quarters, and to analyze seasonal differences in the detection risk. Each QMS sent to the TGD during this period was analyzed and tested using the California Mastitis Test (CMT). Depending on the result, QMSs were classified as CMT-negative, subclinical, or clinical if the milk character showed abnormalities. Mastitis pathogens were detected in 19% of the QMSs. Non-aureus staphylococci (NAS) were the most common species isolated from the culture positive samples (30%), followed by Staphylococcus (S.) aureus (19%), Streptococcus (Sc.) uberis (19%), and Sc. dysgalactiae (9%). In culture-positive QMSs from CMT-negative and subclinically affected quarters, the most frequently isolated pathogens were NAS (44% and 27%, respectively), followed by S. aureus (25% and 17%, respectively) and Sc. uberis (8% and 22%, respectively). In QMSs from clinically affected quarters, the most frequently isolated pathogens were Sc. uberis (32%), S. aureus (13%), Sc. dysgalactiae (11%), and Escherichia (E.) coli (11%). The distribution of NAS and Sc. uberis increased throughout the study period, while that of S. aureus decreased. From June to October, QMSs from subclinically affected quarters increased and environmental pathogens, such as Sc. uberis, were detected more frequently. In conclusion, this study highlights the dynamic nature of the distribution of mastitis pathogens, influenced by mastitis status and seasonal factors. Environmental pathogens still play an important role, especially in clinical mastitis and seasonal dependency, with the number of positive samples continuing to increase. It is therefore essential to continue mastitis control measures and to regularly monitor the spread of mastitis pathogens in order to track trends and adapt targeted prevention measures.
Influence of Long-Term Freezing of Carcasses in Pre- and Post-Rigor Mortis Stages on the Technological and Nutritional Parameters of the Longissimus lumborum Muscle of Botucatu Rabbits
Authors: Dutra Daniel Rodrigues , Villegas-Cayllahua Erick Alonso , Baptista Giovanna Garcia , Ferreira Lucas Emannuel , Cavalcanti Érika Nayara Freire , Carneiro Nívea Maria Gomes Misson , Dias Ana Veronica Lino , Francelino Mainara Carolina , Pereira Mateus Roberto , Castilha Leandro Dalcin , Borba Hirasilva
Published: August 2024

The aim was to assess the impact of long-term storage on the quality of Botucatu rabbit meat frozen in pre- and post-rigor stages. The stability of the technological and nutritional parameters of Longissimus lumborum (LL) muscle was analyzed over 12 months. In the post-rigor phase, the dorsal LL surface showed a higher level (p < 0.05) of redness and saturation, while the ventral surface showed a higher level (p < 0.05) of yellowness compared to the pre-rigor LL muscle. During storage, the redness and saturation in the LL muscle decreased (p < 0.05), while the yellowness increased (p < 0.05) on both dorsal and ventral surfaces. In the first six months, the pre-rigor meat had a higher pH (p < 0.05) compared to the post-rigor meat. The fresh meat showed higher (p < 0.05) shear force values in the post-rigor stage. Over the 12-month study period, the lipid oxidation, myofibrillar fragmentation index, gross energy, and levels of protein, fat, and carbohydrates increased (p < 0.05), while the shear force, mineral content, and moisture decreased (p < 0.05). Thus, rigor mortis affects meat color in Botucatu rabbits. Fresh meat in the pre-rigor stage is softer, moister, and less acidic than post-rigor meat after 24 h of chilling. Long-term freezing enhances tenderness, regardless of the rigor phase at freezing, preserving its physical, chemical, and nutritional quality, with minor changes in color, lipid oxidation, and chemical composition.
Twin Pregnancy in the Martina Franca Donkey Breed Managed by Natural Reduction and Post-Fixation Manual Crushing
Authors: Veronesi Maria Cristina , De Amicis Ippolito , Giangaspero Brunella Anna , Fusi Jasmine , Robbe Domenico , Castelli Francesco , Carluccio Augusto
Published: August 2024

In Equids, undetected twin pregnancy represents the most important cause of abortion and is also associated with high neonatal mortality rates. Therefore, the detection and management of twin pregnancies is pivotal to allow the continuation of single pregnancies. Although pre-fixation manual crushing of one embryo is the most common management of twin pregnancies, and the impact of natural reduction has been reported in mares, very little is known about donkeys. The present study aimed to report results on the natural reduction occurrence and post-fixation manual crushing management of twin pregnancies in the Martina Franca donkey breed. Methods: Twenty-five twin pregnancies were detected at 11–13 days after ovulation. At 16 days after ovulation, twin pregnancies were classified as unilateral or bilateral and left untreated. The occurrence of natural reduction of one embryo was assessed at 20–21 days after ovulation, and post-fixation manual crushing of one embryo was performed in those cases in which natural reduction did not occur. The pregnancy rate at 28 days after ovulation and live foal rate were recorded. Result: Sixteen out of 25 twin pregnancies were unilateral and nine bilateral. At 20–21 days after ovulation, the natural reduction of one embryo occurred in 87.5% of the unilateral and in none of the bilateral twin pregnancies. The remaining twin pregnancies were treated by post-fixation manual crushing of one embryo. The 28-days-after-ovulation single embryo pregnancy rate was 93.8% for unilateral twin pregnancies and 88.9% for bilateral twin pregnancies, with an overall pregnancy rate of 92%. The live foal rate was 87%. Conclusions: The success rate of natural reduction within 20–21 days after ovulation, the 28-days-after-ovulation pregnancy rate, and the live foal rate suggest that waiting for the natural reduction of one embryo and choosing the post-fixation manual crushing of one embryo could be considered as an alternative to traditional early pre-fixation manual crushing in the Martina Franca donkey breed.
Combination of Phytoactives in the Diet of Lactating Jersey Cows: Effects on Productive Efficiency, Milk Composition and Quality, Ruminal Environment, and Animal Health
Authors: de Vitt Maksuel G. , Signor Mateus H. , Corrêa Natalia G. , Breancini Michel , Wolschick Gabriel J. , Klein Bruna , Silva Luiz Eduardo L. , Wagner Roger , Jung Camila T. K. , Kozloski Gilberto V. , Bajay Miklos M. , Schroeder Gabriela S. , Milarch Carine F. , Da Silva Aleksandro S.
Published: August 2024

This study’s objective was to evaluate whether adding a combination of phytoactive (microencapsulated essential oils, minerals, turmeric extract, tannin, prebiotic, and probiotic) to the feed of lactating Jersey cows positively affects the production, composition, and quality of milk, rumen environment, and animal health. Fourteen Jersey cows were divided into two groups (control and phytogenic) for an experiment with two lactation phases of 45 days each (early lactation and mid-lactation). During the experiment, milk production was higher at various times in cows that consumed phytoactive, and these animals had the best feed efficiency. In mid-lactation, phytoactive intake increased nutrient digestibility. The number of lymphocytes in the blood is reduced when cows consume phytoactive substances. Globulin levels increased in these cows fed with the additive, which may be related to a higher concentration of immunoglobulins, especially IgA. Cows fed phytoactives had lower ceruloplasmin and haptoglobin concentrations. Lower serum lipid peroxidation, associated with greater glutathione S-transferase activity, is a good health indicator in cows that consume phytoactive substances. The higher concentration of volatile fatty acids was due to the higher proportion of acetic acid in the ruminal fluid combined with lower butyric acid. Somatic cell counts in milk were lower in cows that consumed phytoactives during mid-lactation, as well as the effect of the treatment on Streptococcus spp. (lower in cows that consumed the additive). We conclude that consuming the additive benefits cows’ health modulates rumen fermentation and nutrient digestibility, and positively affects milk production and quality.
A Carbon Benefits-Based Signal Control Method in a Connected Environment
Authors: Kang Zhen , An Lianhua , Yang Xiaoguang , Lai Jintao
Published: August 2024

This study proposes an innovative carbon benefits-based signal control method for connected vehicle (CV) environments, aiming to reduce carbon emissions at urban intersections. By integrating a Carbon Inclusion Mechanism (CIM), the proposed approach offers carbon rewards to vehicles adhering to speed guidance. The method exhibits the following features: (i) higher ceiling of carbon emissions reduction at signal control intersection; (ii) higher compliance rate (CR) of vehicles by taking advantage of carbon economic incentives; (iii) a method for calculating carbon emissions reduction at the intersection. To validate the effectiveness, performance evaluations of emissions, stop frequencies, and delays were conducted through microscopic simulation. Sensitivity analysis encompassed various traffic demands, different CRs of carbon-benefit connected vehicles (CBCVs), and unbalanced traffic demand. The results demonstrated that the proposed method excels in reducing traffic emissions, stop frequencies, and delays. Specifically, carbon emissions were reduced by 5.24% to 17.60%, stop frequencies decreased by 14.8% to 75.4%, and delays were reduced by 22.82% to 52.62%. By utilizing connected vehicle technology and CIM, this study contributes to sustainable urban traffic management, laying a foundation for future research and the practical implementation of emission reduction strategies.
Multi-Modal System for Walking Safety for the Visually Impaired: Multi-Object Detection and Natural Language Generation
Authors: Lee Jekyung , Cha Kyung-Ae , Lee Miran
Published: August 2024

This study introduces a system for visually impaired individuals in a walking environment. It combines object recognition using YOLOv5 and cautionary sentence generation with KoAlpaca. The system employs image data augmentation for diverse training data and GPT for natural language training. Furthermore, the implementation of the system on a single board was followed by a comprehensive comparative analysis with existing studies. Moreover, a pilot test involving visually impaired and healthy individuals was conducted to validate the system’s practical applicability and adaptability in real-world walking environments. Our pilot test results indicated an average usability score of 4.05. Participants expressed some dissatisfaction with the notification conveying time and online implementation, but they highly praised the system’s object detection range and accuracy. The experiments demonstrated that using QLoRA enables more efficient training of larger models, which is associated with improved model performance. Our study makes a significant contribution to the literature because the proposed system enables real-time monitoring of various environmental conditions and objects in pedestrian environments using AI.
Refined 3D Numerical Simulation of In Situ Stress in Shale Reservoirs: Northern Mahu Sag, Junggar Basin, Northwest China
Authors: Chen Peng , Qiu Huaning , Chen Xinyu , Shen Chuanbo
Published: August 2024

The shale oil reservoirs of the Lower Permian Fengcheng Formation in the northern Mahu Sag are promising targets. However, complex geology and strong heterogeneity in the area pose great difficulties in the numerical simulation of in situ stress fields, which have for a long time been poorly understood. This study provides a systematic and accurate 3D in situ stress numerical simulation workflow based on comprehensive data. In this research, optimized ant tracking was applied to construct refined geological models. Acoustic impedance is taken as what we refer to as “hard” data to reflect variations in geomechanical parameters. Logging and mechanical tests were taken as “soft” data to restrict the numerical range of the geomechanical parameters. With the integration of “hard” data and “soft” data, accurate 3D geomechanical models can be attained. The finite element method was ultimately utilized to simulate the 3D in situ stress field of the Fengcheng Formation. Numerical simulation results reveal that the stress state of the Fengcheng Formation is quite complicated. The magnitude of the horizontal principal stress, horizontal stress difference and horizontal stress difference coefficient are correlated with burial depth, faults, and geomechanical parameters to some degree. The parameter Aφ was introduced in this research to better analyze the stress regime, the result of which demonstrates that the main stress regime in the study region is the reverse faulting stress regime. By evaluating the fault stability, it was found that there is basically no possibility of slippage regarding the faults in northern Mahu Sag. The results of this research provide evidence for well deployment optimization, borehole stability, and so on, all of which are of great significance in hydrocarbon exploration and exploitation.