bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carcinogenicity of Poorly Soluble Low Toxicity Particles: Commentary on Epidemiology as a Risk Assessment “Reality Check”
Authors: Mundt Kenneth A. , Santamaria Annette B. , Thompson William J. , Bates Christopher A. , Boles Corey , Dotson G. Scott , Yong Mei
Published: July 2022

Inhaled particles that are poorly soluble or insoluble and of low toxicity (“poorly soluble low toxicity” or “PSLT” particles), can accumulate in the lung and at lung overload levels induce lung cancers in rats. The question of whether PSLT particles increase lung cancer risk in humans is complicated by large differences between rats and humans and the relatively large particle doses administered in animal studies even when compared with heavy human occupational exposures. We review the findings of epidemiological studies on occupational exposure to each of three different PSLT particles (carbon black, talc and taconite). The epidemiological evidence indicates that at even very high occupational exposure levels at which non-malignant respiratory diseases including pneumoconiosis and even talcosis are observed, lung cancer risks appear not to be elevated. Although positive human cancer risks might be predicted based on extrapolation from overload doses in rats to relevant exposures in humans, the epidemiological “reality check” based on the three examples indicates that these PSLT particles are unlikely to increase lung cancer risk in humans even at high occupational levels of exposure. Therefore, we propose that careful evaluation of the epidemiological evidence can serve as a “reality check” for human risk assessment and help balance the risk evaluation process.
Mental Health Status of Medical Staff Exposed to Hospital Workplace Violence: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Wang Licheng , Ni Xin , Li Zhe , Ma Yuanshuo , Zhang Yafeng , Zhang Zhong , Gao Lei , Liu Xinyan , Yan Wenxin , Fan Lihua , Shi Lei
Published: July 2022

Objective

Hospital workplace violence is one of the most frequently reported types of workplace violence in the world, and it harms the mental and physical health of medical staff. Existing research on workplace violence focused more on cross-sectional studies, than longitudinal studies. Therefore, this study examined the dynamic impact of hospital workplace violence on the mental health of medical staff, with the aim of providing appropriate countermeasures and suggestions for hospitals to develop targeted psychological intervention measures in time for medical staff who experience workplace violence.

Design

A prospective cohort study.

Participants

A total of 112 medical staff who had experienced workplace violence in the hospital for the first time were chosen.

Setting

An unconditional latent variable growth curve model was established based on the average value of the general health scale scores of medical staff, and gender and violence types (intimidation threats, physical violence) as control variables. Each medical staff was assessed for depression and anxiety at 4 different time points and the changes in the trajectories was observed.

Results

There were significant differences in the incidence of mental health and anxiety among medical staff at different observation times. There were significant individual differences in the initial mental health status, growth rate of anxiety and depression of medical staff.

Conclusions

Hospitals should undertake various psychological intervention strategies based on the staff's mental health to safeguard those who have experienced workplace violence.
A Web-Based Prediction Model for Cancer-Specific Survival of Elderly Patients Undergoing Surgery With Prostate Cancer: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Zhang Zhaoxia , Zhanghuang Chenghao , Wang Jinkui , Mi Tao , Liu Jiayan , Tian Xiaomao , Jin Liming , He Dawei
Published: July 2022

Objective

Prostate cancer (PC) is the second leading cause of cancer death in men in the United States after lung cancer in global incidence. Elderly male patients over 65 years old account for more than 60% of PC patients, and the impact of surgical treatment on the prognosis of PC patients is controversial. Moreover, there are currently no predictive models that can predict the prognosis of elderly PC patients undergoing surgical treatment. Therefore, we aimed to construct a new nomogram to predict cancer-specific survival (CSS) in elderly PC patients undergoing surgical treatment.

Methods

Data for surgically treated PC patients aged 65 years and older were obtained from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression models were used to identify independent risk factors for elderly PC patients undergoing surgical treatment. A nomogram of elderly PC patients undergoing surgical treatment was developed based on the multivariate Cox regression model. The consistency index (C-index), the area under the subject operating characteristic curve (AUC), and the calibration curve were used to test the accuracy and discrimination of the predictive model. Decision curve analysis (DCA) was used to examine the potential clinical value of this model.

Results

A total of 44,975 elderly PC patients undergoing surgery in 2010–2018 were randomly assigned to the training set (N = 31705) and validation set (N = 13270). the training set was used for nomogram development and the validation set was used for internal validation. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression model analysis showed that age, marriage, TNM stage, surgical style, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, Gleason score(GS), and prostate-specific antigen(PSA) were independent risk factors for CSS in elderly PC patients undergoing surgical treatment. The C index of the training set and validation indices are 0.911(95%CI: 0.899–0.923) and 0.913(95%CI: 0.893–0.933), respectively, indicating that the nomogram has a good discrimination ability. The AUC and the calibration curves also show good accuracy and discriminability.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, our nomogram is the first predictive model for elderly PC patients undergoing surgical treatment, filling the gap in current predictive models for this PC patient population. Our data comes from the SEER database, which is trustworthy and reliable. Moreover, our model has been internally validated in the validation set using the C-index,AUC and the and the calibration curve, showed that the model have good accuracy and reliability, which can help clinicians and patients make better clinical decision-making. Moreover, the DCA results show that our nomogram has a better potential clinical application value than the TNM staging system.
Personalizing Care Through Robotic Assistance and Clinical Supervision
Authors: Sorrentino Alessandra , Fiorini Laura , Mancioppi Gianmaria , Cavallo Filippo , Umbrico Alessandro , Cesta Amedeo , Orlandini Andrea
Published: July 2022

By 2030, the World Health Organization (WHO) foresees a worldwide workforce shortfall of healthcare professionals, with dramatic consequences for patients, economies, and communities. Research in assistive robotics has experienced an increasing attention during the last decade demonstrating its utility in the realization of intelligent robotic solutions for healthcare and social assistance, also to compensate for such workforce shortages. Nevertheless, a challenge for effective assistive robots is dealing with a high variety of situations and contextualizing their interactions according to living contexts and habits (or preferences) of assisted people. This study presents a novel cognitive system for assistive robots that rely on artificial intelligence (AI) representation and reasoning features/services to support decision-making processes of healthcare assistants. We proposed an original integration of AI-based features, that is, knowledge representation and reasoning and automated planning to 1) define a human-in-the-loop continuous assistance procedure that helps clinicians in evaluating and managing patients and; 2) to dynamically adapt robot behaviors to the specific needs and interaction abilities of patients. The system is deployed in a realistic assistive scenario to demonstrate its feasibility to support a clinician taking care of several patients with different conditions and needs.
Watch out for the Robot! Designing Visual Feedback Safety Techniques When Interacting With Encountered-Type Haptic Displays
Authors: Mercado Victor Rodrigo , Argelaguet Ferran , Casiez Gery , Lécuyer Anatole
Published: July 2022

Encountered-Type Haptic Displays (ETHDs) enable users to touch virtual surfaces by using robotic actuators capable of co-locating real and virtual surfaces without encumbering users with actuators. One of the main challenges of ETHDs is to ensure that the robotic actuators do not interfere with the VR experience by avoiding unexpected collisions with users. This paper presents a design space for safety techniques using visual feedback to make users aware of the robot’s state and thus reduce unintended potential collisions. The blocks that compose this design space focus on what and when the feedback is displayed and how it protects the user. Using this design space, a set of 18 techniques was developed exploring variations of the three dimensions. An evaluation questionnaire focusing on immersion and perceived safety was designed and evaluated by a group of experts, which was used to provide a first assessment of the proposed techniques.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Physical Activity and Life Satisfaction of Golfers: A Cross-Sectional Study in German-Speaking Countries
Authors: Jungwirth David , Angerer Martin , Haluza Daniela
Published: July 2022

Golf is an outdoor sport played worldwide, and golfers of all ages benefit from regular exercise and social contact. The COVID-19 crisis has led to lockdowns, curfews, and closures of golf courses and other indoor and outdoor sports facilities. This study aimed to retrospectively assess how golfers perceived the impact of the crisis on physical activity and life satisfaction. We conducted a cross-sectional online survey among 1,115 golfers (61% men, mean age 55.0 years) in German-speaking countries, mainly Austria and Germany, from March to June 2021. When comparing ratings before and during the COVID-19 period, participants reported exercising more indoors at home independently or with online instructions. Likewise, the popularity of exercising outdoors in publicly accessible open spaces increased overall, especially in rural areas by about 10%. Life satisfaction decreased significantly by 24.2% (p < 0.001) during the pandemic. From a public health perspective, access to outdoor sports facilities such as golf courses might alleviate the negative psychosocial and health effects of home confinement and restricted access to indoor sports facilities. Further research is recommended to evaluate the longer-term impact of COVID-19-related measures on the physical activity and life satisfaction of golfers.
The Legacy of Sport Events for Emerging Nations
Authors: Knott Brendon , Tinaz Cem
Published: July 2022

Large-scale and mega sport events (SMEs), such as Olympic Games and FIFA World Cups, have been more frequently hosted in emerging nations. Bidding and hosting SMEs is considered an object of policy for many emerging nations, with SMEs viewed as key factors in local and national development strategies. This has largely been driven by the assumption that their legacy provides solutions to economic, social, cultural, or political challenges. A variety of legacies have predominated the literature over the past two decades, however it is proposed that there is a difference in the types of legacies anticipated or realized within emerging nations. This exploratory study therefore aimed to determine the types of legacies anticipated or realized by emerging nations as a result of hosting sport events, and to determine if these differ from those of established nations. A systematic literature review followed the PRISMA approach to identify and select peer-reviewed articles that focused on legacies from major and mega-events hosted in emerging nations. A set of 97 publications were analyzed qualitatively to reveal the key legacy themes. The findings confirm legacy as a growing body of knowledge in emerging nations, aligned with increasing event hosting. The findings reveal insights on the extent of literature on this topic in emerging nations, including the major nations, events, authors and publications represented. While the paper cannot determine unique legacies for emerging nations, it identifies key legacy focus areas for these nations, primarily: social development; politics, soft-power and sport-for-peace; the economics of tourism, image and branding; infrastructure and urban development; and sport development. This paper proposes a conceptualization of key legacy areas for emerging nations and proposes future research themes. The paper is unique in its highlighting of the significance of legacy outcomes for emerging nations from the hosting of sport mega-events. It therefore contributes to a more nuanced understanding of and imperative for legacy from sport events globally.
Does Orexin B-Binding Receptor 2 for Orexins Regulate Testicular and Epididymal Functions in Normal and Cryptorchid Dogs?
Authors: Squillacioti Caterina , Pelagalli Alessandra , Assisi Loredana , Costagliola Anna , Van Nassauw Luc , Mirabella Nicola , Liguori Giovanna
Published: July 2022

Orexins A (OXA) and B (OXB) and the receptors 1 (OX1R) and 2 (OX2R) for orexins are hypothalamic peptides found in several mammalian organs and participated to the control of a wide assortment of physiological and pathological functions. The distribution of OXA and OX1R has been extensively studied in the male gonad of mammals. Here, we examined the expression and localization of OXB and OX2R as well as their possible involvement in the regulation of testicular and epididymal functions, in healthy and cryptorchid dogs, employing some techniques such as immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, and real-time RT-PCR. In vitro tests were also carried out for evaluating the steroidogenic effect of OXB. OXB and OX2R were expressed in spermatocytes, spermatids, and Leydig cells in normal testis. Their localization was restricted to Sertoli and Leydig cells in cryptorchid conditions. OXB was found to be localized in all tracts of both normal and cryptorchid epididymis, whereas OX2R was found only in the caput. Because the small molecular weight of the peptides OXA and OXB, the expression of their precursor prepro-orexin (PPO), OX1R, and OX2R proteins and mRNAs were investigated by means of Western blot and real-time RT-PCR analyses, respectively, in all tested groups of. In particular, the mRNA level expression of all three genes was higher in cryptorchid dogs than in normal ones. In vitro tests demonstrated that OXB—by binding OX2R—is not involved in testicular steroidogenic processes. Therefore, the findings of this study might be the basis for further functional and molecular studies addressing the possible biochemical effects of OXB and OX2R in normal and pathological conditions of the male reproductive system.
Changes in Ground Reaction Forces and Center of Pressure Parameters of Paws When Wearing Dog Boots in Dogs
Authors: Bieber Bianca , Reicher Bianca , Tichy Alexander , Bockstahler Barbara
Published: July 2022

Dog boots are commonly used as protective footwear against snow, ice, hot sand, road salt, and paw injury. Only a few studies exist in veterinary medicine that capture the impact of dog boot replacements, such as bandages, on ground reaction forces (GRF) in dogs. To our knowledge, no studies have investigated the effect of dog boots on the center of pressure (COP) in dogs. This study investigated changes in the GRF of the whole limb and selected COP parameters of the paws while wearing dog boots in five Labrador Retrievers. After habituation, data were collected by walking and trotting dogs over a pressure platform without boots (control measurement) and under five different test conditions (wearing boots on all limbs, boots on both front limbs, boots on both hind limbs, one boot on the left front limb, and one boot on the right hind limb). The most prominent change was detectable when one boot was worn on the left front limb, with a decrease of peak vertical force (PFz%) in the left front limb at trot which led to a significant difference between both front limbs and a significant increase of PFz (%) in the right hind limb. Additionally, in both tempi, the vertical impulse (IFz%) showed significant differences between the front limbs; in trot, there was also an increase in the right front limb compared with the control. Furthermore, some significant changes in COP parameters were detected; for instance, all test conditions showed a significant increase in COP area (%) at the right front limb during walking compared to the control. Therefore, our results show that wearing the tested dog boots in different constellations seems to have an impact on GRF and some COP parameters.
Novel Polymorphisms and Genetic Characteristics of the Prion Protein Gene in Pheasants
Authors: Kim Kyung Han , Kim Yong-Chan , Jeong Byung-Hoon
Published: July 2022

Transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) also known as prion diseases, are fatal neurodegenerative diseases. Prion diseases are caused by abnormal prion protein (PrPSc) derived from normal prion protein (PrPC), which is encoded by the prion protein gene (PRNP). Prion diseases have been reported in several mammals. Notably, chickens, one species of bird, have not been reported to develop prion diseases and showed resistance to bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) infection. However, genetic polymorphisms of the PRNP gene and protein structure of the prion protein (PrP) related to vulnerability to prion diseases have not been investigated in pheasants, another species of bird. We performed amplicon sequencing of the pheasant PRNP gene to identify genetic polymorphisms in 148 pheasants. We analyzed the genotype, allele and haplotype frequencies of the pheasant PRNP polymorphisms. In addition, we evaluated the effect of genetic polymorphisms of the pheasant PRNP gene on pheasant PrP by the AMYCO, PROVEAN, PolyPhen-2 and PANTHER softwares. Furthermore, we compared the amino acid sequences of tandem repeat domains and secondary and tertiary structures of prion proteins (PrPs) among several animals. Finally, we investigated the impact of non-synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on hydrogen bonds and tertiary structures of pheasant PrP by Swiss PDB viewer software. We identified 34 novel genetic polymorphisms of the pheasant PRNP gene including 8 non-synonymous SNPs and 6 insertion/deletion polymorphisms. Among the non-synonymous SNPs, the L23F, G33C and R177Q SNPs showed that they could have a deleterious effect on pheasant PrP. In addition, the R177Q SNP was predicted to show an increase in amyloid propensity and a reduction in hydrogen bonds of pheasant PrP. Among the insertion/deletion polymorphisms, c.163_180delAACCCGGGGTATCCCCAC showed that it could have a detrimental effect on pheasant PrP. Furthermore, secondary and tertiary structures of pheasant PrP were predicted to have structures similar to those of chicken PrP. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study on genetic polymorphisms of the pheasant PRNP gene.
Assessing the Health Benefits of Physical Activity Due to Active Commuting in a French Energy Transition Scenario
Authors: Barban Pierre , De Nazelle Audrey , Chatelin Stéphane , Quirion Philippe , Jean Kévin
Published: July 2022

Objectives: Energy transition scenarios are prospective outlooks describing combinations of changes in socio-economic systems that are compatible with climate targets. These changes could have important health co-benefits. We aimed to quantify the health benefits of physical activity caused by active transportation on all-cause mortality in the French negaWatt scenario over the 2021–2050 period.

Methods; Relying on a health impact assessment framework, we quantified the health benefits of increased walking, cycling and E-biking projected in the negaWatt scenario. The negaWatt scenario assumes increases of walking and cycling volumes of +11% and +612%, respectively, over the study period.

Results: As compared to a scenario with no increase in volume of active travel, we quantified that the negaWatt scenario would prevent 9,797 annual premature deaths in 2045 and translate into a 3-month increase in life expectancy in the general population. These health gains would generate €34 billion of economic benefits from 2045 onwards.

Conclusion: Increased physical activity implied in the negaWatt transition scenario would generate substantial public health benefits, which are comparable to the gain expected by large scale health prevention interventions.
Corporate Social Responsibility, Stakeholder Engagement, and Universities
Authors: Aversano Natalia , Nicolò Giuseppe , Sannino Giuseppe , Tartaglia Polcini Paolo
Published: July 2022

In recent decades, there have been increasing concerns about the role of organizations in society and their impact on climate change, environmental degradation, resource depletion, health crises, and human rights’ inequalities (Yanez et al [...]
Trichoderma Bio-Fertilizer Decreased C Mineralization in Aggregates on the Southern North China Plain
Authors: Zhu Lixia , Cao Mengmeng , Sang Chengchen , Li Tingxuan , Zhang Yanjun , Chang Yunxia , Li Lili
Published: July 2022

Trichoderma bio-fertilizer is widely used to improve soil fertility and carbon (C) sequestration, but the mechanism for increasing C accumulation remains unclear. In this study, effects of Trichoderma bio-fertilizer on the mineralization of aggregate-associated organic C were investigated in a field experiment with five treatments (bio-fertilizer substitute 0 (CF), 10% (BF10), 20% (BF20), 30% (BF30) and 50% (BF50) chemical fertilizer nitrogen (N)). Aggregate fractions collected by the dry sieving method were used to determine mineralization dynamics of aggregate-associated organic C. The microbial community across aggregate fractions was detected by the phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) method. The results indicated that Trichoderma bio-fertilizer increased organic C stock across aggregate fractions and bulk soil compared with CF. Cumulative mineralization of aggregate-associated organic C increased with the increasing bio-fertilizer application rate. However, the proportion of organic mineralized C was lower in the BF20 treatment except for <0.053 mm aggregate. Moreover, the PLFAs and fungal PLFA/bacterial PLFA first increased and then decreased with increasing bio-fertilizer application rates. Compared with CF, the increases of bacteria PLFA in >2 mm aggregate were 79.7%, 130.0%, 141.0% and 148.5% in BF10, BF20, BF30 and BF50, respectively. Similarly, the PLFAs in 0.25–2, 0.053–0.25 and <0.053 mm aggregates showed a similar trend to that in >2 mm aggregate. Bio-fertilizer increased the value of fungi PLFA/bacteria PLFA but decreased G+ PLFA/G− PLFA, and BF20 shared the greatest changes. Therefore, appropriate Trichoderma bio-fertilizer application was beneficial to improving soil micro-environment and minimizing risks of soil degradation.
Genotype by Environment Interaction Analysis for Grain Yield of Wheat (Triticum aestivum (L.) em.Thell) Genotypes
Authors: Gupta Vijeta , Kumar Mukesh , Singh Vikram , Chaudhary Lakshmi , Yashveer Shikha , Sheoran Ravika , Dalal Mohinder Singh , Nain Ashish , Lamba Kavita , Gangadharaiah Nikhil , Sharma Rajat , Nagpal Shreya
Published: July 2022

Genotype environment interaction and stability performance were investigated on grain yield per plot in eight environments during Rabi (here, rabi means that a crop has been grown in Rabi season: crops that are sown in winter and harvested in spring in the Indian subcontinent) 2019–2020 and 2020–2021 using 100 diverse wheat genotypes. Research was conducted at Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana in India. The analysis of variance revealed that genotype, environment and their interaction had a highly significant effect on the yield as reflected in Eberhart and Russel model and The Eberhart and Russell model indicated the suitability of the genotypes WH 1142, PBW 661, PBW 475 and DBW 17 with high mean, bi > 1 and non-significant deviation from regression to favorable environment, whereas the genotypes UP 2660 and DBW 88 with high mean, bi < 1 and non-significant deviation from regression were found suitable for poor environment. The Additive Main Effects and Multipicative Interaction (AMMI) analysis of variance for grain yield per plot across the environments showed that 26.41% of the total variation was attributed to genotypic effects, 70.22% to environmental effects and 3.37% to genotype × environment interaction effects. AMMI biplot study indicated the genotypes PBW 750, DPW 621-50, WH 542, PBW 486, PBW 661 and WH 1192 stable across the environments as they did not exert strong interactive forces; hence, they were selected as potential candidates for possible release in the study areas. Furthermore, the which-won–where model indicated the adaptation of genotypes PBW 706, PBW 769, DBW 116, WH 1157, WH 789 and WH1186 to first mega-environment and genotypes DBW 16, WH 1152, WH 1105 and PBW 503 in the second. These genotypes could be utilized in breeding programs to improve grain yield in bread wheat and may be used as stable breeding material for commercial cultivation.
Identifying the Determinants of Regional Raw Milk Prices in Russia Using Machine Learning
Authors: Kresova Svetlana , Hess Sebastian
Published: July 2022

In this study, official data from Russia’s regions for the period from 2015 to 2019 were analysed on the basis of 12 predictor variables in order to explain the regional raw milk price. Model training and hyperparameter optimisation were performed with a spatiotemporal cross-validation technique using the machine learning (ML) algorithm. The findings of the study showed that the RF algorithm had a good predictive performance Variable importance revealed that drinking milk production, income, livestock numbers and population density are the four most important determinants to explain the variation in regional raw milk prices in Russia.
Soil Organic Matter and Aggregate Stability in Soybean, Maize and Urochloa Production Systems in a Very Clayey Soil of the Brazilian Savanna
Authors: Silva Juslei Figueiredo da , Gontijo Neto Miguel Marques , Silva Gustavo Ferreira da , Borghi Emerson , Calonego Juliano Carlos
Published: July 2022

Forage grasses cultivation in production system with soybean and maize is an alternative to improve tropical weathered soils quality in Brazil. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects in the production systems involving cultivation of Urochloa brizantha cv. Piatã, in monoculture or in succession with soybean and maize crops, on organic matter and structuring of soil in Brazilian savanna. The experiment was implemented in the 2010/2011 season. The treatments consisted of nine production systems and a native forest (savanna) as a reference area. In March 2017, soil sampling was carried out for C and N analysis, physical and chemical fractionation of SOM and aggregate stability. Production systems influenced total organic carbon (TOC) and aggregate stability, mainly in the surface layers, leading to changes in SOM quality. TOC was 31% lower in monoculture soybean production system, when compared to native savanna area, in the 0.00–0.20 m layer. The agricultural production systems influence organic matter quality and soil aggregates stability. For the Brazilian savanna conditions, grain cultivation systems under no-tillage that integrate Urochloa brizantha cv. Piatã contribute to the soil quality improvement. Soybean monoculture generally provides worse soil quality indices compared to other agricultural production systems.
Recalcitrant C Source Mapping Utilizing Solely Terrain-Related Attributes and Data Mining Techniques
Authors: Siami Arezou , Aliasgharzad Nasser , Maleki Leili Aghebati , Najafi Nosratollah , Shahbazi Farzin , Biswas Asim
Published: July 2022

Agricultural practices affect arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal (AMF) hyphae growth and glomalin production, which is a recalcitrant carbon (C) source in soil. Since the spatial distribution of glomalin is an interesting issue for agronomists in terms of carbon sequestration, digital maps are a cost-free and useful approach. For this study, a set of 120 soil samples was collected from an experimental area of 310 km2 from the Sarab region of Iran. Soil total glomalin (TG) and easily extractable glomalin (EEG) were determined via ELISA using the monoclonal antibody 32B11. Soil organic carbon (OC) was also measured. The ratios of TG/OC and EEG/OC as the glomalin–C quotes of OC were calculated. A total of 17 terrain-related attributes were also derived from the digital elevation model (DEM) and used as static environmental covariates in digital soil mapping (DSM) using three predictive models, including multiple linear regression (MLR), random forests (RF), and Cubist (CU). The major findings were as follows: (a) DSM facilitated the interpretation of recalcitrant C source variation; (b) RF outperformed MLR and CU as models in predicting and mapping the spatial distribution of glomalin using available covariates; (c) the best accuracy in predictions was for EEG, followed by EEG/OC, TG, and TG/OC.
Periodical Changes of Feces Microbiota and Its Relationship with Nutrient Digestibility in Early Lambs
Authors: Huang Yongliang , Wang Guoxiu , Li Chong , Wang Weimin , Zhang Xiaoxue , Wang Xiaojuan , Zhang Deyin , Chen Zhanyu , Cui Panpan , Ma Zongwu
Published: July 2022

Early mammal gut microorganism colonization affects host health, the feed conversion rate, and production performance. Herein, we explored how fecal microbiota develops and the interactions between microorganisms and nutrients. The lambs were separated from ewes at 7 days old, artificial feeding with milk replacer completely replaced lactation, and the starter diet was added. At 21 days old, the lambs were fed with complete starter and milk replacer was stopped. At day 7, 21, 35, and 49 after birth, fecal samples were collected. Then 16S rRNA gene sequencing in the fecal samples revealed that the alpha diversity increased significantly with age. Principal coordinates analysis showed clear clustering by age (p < 0.05). At the genus level, the relative abundance of 8 genera declined, 12 genera increased (p < 0.1), and 4 genera changed dramatically with age (p < 0.05). The apparent digestibility of dry matter, protein, fat, neutral detergent fiber, and acid detergent fiber significantly decreased by 21.77%, 23.15%, 23.62%, 19.38%, and 45.24%, respectively, from 7 to 35 days of age (p < 0.05), but not thereafter (p > 0.05). Fecal nutrient contents affected the abundance of bacterial genera (p < 0.05). Enterobacteriaceae_unclassified, Clostridium XlVb, Bifidobacterium, and other genera had no relationship with the fecal nutrient content; however, they were closely related to nutrient intake and digestibility, possibly promoting nutrient digestion. Our results suggested that nutrient digestion of young lambs changed rapidly, which was closely related to intestinal microbial colonization.
Milk Composition and Production Efficiency within Feed-To-Yield Systems on Commercial Dairy Farms in Northern Ireland
Authors: Craig Aimee-Louise , Gordon Alan W. , Hamill Gregory , Ferris Conrad P.
Published: July 2022

This study examined the relationships between milk yield and diet composition, nutrient intakes, milk composition, and feed use efficiency when concentrates were offered using a feed-to-yield (FTY) approach. The study was conducted on 26 dairy farms in Northern Ireland. Cows (n = 3471) were fully housed and were offered concentrates on an FTY basis. Individual cow genetic information was obtained for 18 herds. Concentrate intakes of individual cows were either obtained from the farms or calculated, while milk yield and milk composition data were obtained from test-day milk recording. Mean test-day milk yields during months 2 to 5 post-calving were calculated for each cow, and cows within each lactation were placed into one of six equal-sized milk yield (kg/cow/day) groups. Diet effects and performance responses to milk yield groups were tested for linear and quadratic effects. Total dry matter intakes increased with increasing milk yield. Milk fat and milk protein concentration declined as milk yield increased, which could be attributed in part to genetics and diet. As milk yield increased, nitrogen and energy use efficiency was improved. However, concentrates offered per kg of energy-corrected milk also increased at higher milk yields, indicating an increased reliance on concentrates for these cows.
A Prospective Cohort Study on the Periparturient Muscle Tissue Mobilisation in High Producing Dairy Cows
Authors: Hatfield Cara , Tulley William , Hall Rachel , Griffiths Bethany Eloise , Foskolos Andreas , Smith Robert Frank , Oikonomou Georgios
Published: July 2022

Excessive periparturient fat mobilisation and its association with dairy cattle health and fertility is well documented; however, the role of muscle mobilisation has not been studied extensively. The objectives of this study were to (i) investigate the changes in the thickness of the longissimus dorsi muscle in high producing dairy cows during the periparturient period, (ii) identify factors associated with these changes, and (iii) describe their possible associations with cattle reproductive performance. Data were collected from a total of 500 lactations from 455 cows on three different UK farms. Muscle thickness (MT) (Longissimus dorsi) and back fat thickness (BFT) measurements were collected at three different time-points during the periparturient period using ultrasonography. Body condition score (BCS) was also assessed at the same time-points and blood samples were collected for the measurement of non-esterified fatty acids. Farm fertility records were used and genomically estimated breeding values were also available. Associations between variables were analysed with the use of multivariable linear and logistic regression models; Cox proportional hazard analysis was used for fertility outcomes. Muscle thickness decreased pre- to post-calving on all three farms, though they were notable between farm differences. Those animals with a lower BCS pre-calving had a higher MT loss; significant fat mobilisation occurred between the calving and early lactation period. Muscle thickness changes and fat mobilisation were not associated in this study. An increased time to first service was described for those animals that mobilised more muscle tissue. Our study advances the understanding of periparturient muscle tissue mobilisation in dairy cattle and highlights its potential associations with cattle fertility.
Effects of the Probiotic, Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus, as a Substitute for Antibiotics on the Gastrointestinal Tract Microbiota and Metabolomics Profile of Female Growing-Finishing Pigs
Authors: Mo Jiayuan , Lu Yujie , Jiang Shan , Yan Gang , Xing Tianqi , Xu Di , He Yaoyin , Xie Bingkun , Lan Ganqiu , Chen Baojian , Liang Jing
Published: July 2022

Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus (LDB) is an approved feed additive on the Chinese ‘Approved Feed Additives’ list. However, the possibility of LDB as an antibiotic replacement remains unclear. Particularly, the effect of LDB on microbiota and metabolites in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) requires further explanation. This study aimed to identify the microbiota and metabolites present in fecal samples and investigate the relationship between the microbiota and metabolites to evaluate the potential of LDB as an antibiotic replacement in pig production. A total of 42 female growing-finishing pigs were randomly allocated into the antibiotic group (basal diet + 75 mg/kg aureomycin) and LDB (basal diet + 3.0 × 109 cfu/kg LDB) groups. Fecal samples were collected on days 0 and 30. Growth performance was recorded and assessed. 16S rRNA sequencing and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry-based non-targeted metabolomics approaches were used to analyze the differences in microbiota and metabolites. Associations between the differences were calculated using Spearman correlations with the Benjamini–Hochberg adjustment. The LDB diet had no adverse effect on feed efficiency but slightly enhanced the average daily weight gain and average daily feed intake (p > 0.05). The diet supplemented with LDB increased Lactobacillus abundance and decreased that of Prevotellaceae_NK3B31_group spp. Dietary-supplemented LDB enhanced the concentrations of pyridoxine, tyramine, D-(+)-pyroglutamic acid, hypoxanthine, putrescine and 5-hydroxyindole-3-acetic acid and decreased the lithocholic acid concentration. The Lactobacillus networks (Lactobacillus, Peptococcus, Ruminococcaceae_UCG-004, Escherichia-Shigella, acetophenone, tyramine, putrescine, N-methylisopelletierine, N1-acetylspermine) and Prevotellaceae_NK3B31_group networks (Prevotellaceae_NK3B31_group, Treponema_2, monolaurin, penciclovir, N-(5-acetamidopentyl)acetamide, glycerol 3-phosphate) were the most important in the LDB effect on pig GIT health in our study. These findings indicate that LDB may regulate GIT function through the Lactobacillus and Prevotellaceae_NK3B31_group networks. However, our results were restrained to fecal samples of female growing-finishing pigs; gender, growth stages, breeds and other factors should be considered to comprehensively assess LDB as an antibiotic replacement in pig production.
Comparison of Mean Arterial Blood Pressure and Heart Rate Changes in Response to Three Different Randomized Isotonic Crystalloid Boluses in Hypotensive Anesthetized Dogs
Authors: Vézina-Audette Raphaël , Kantyka Marta , Gianotti Giacomo , Silverstein Deborah C.
Published: July 2022

The aim of this prospective, randomized, nonblinded, controlled clinical trial was to compare mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) and heart rate (HR) during an intravenous bolus of three different balanced isotonic crystalloid solutions in euvolemic, anesthetized dogs with hypotension. Thirty healthy dogs (American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status I–II) weighing at least 15 kg that presented for elective orthopedic or dental surgical procedures at the Ryan Veterinary Hospital for Small Animals of the University of Pennsylvania were included in this study. Anesthetized hypotensive patients (defined as a MAP ≤ 65 mmHg), were administered an infusion of Lactated Ringer’s solution (LRS), Plasma-Lyte (PLYTE) or Canadian Plasma-Lyte (PLYTECA), selected at random. The infusion was administered over 15 min via a volumetric fluid pump. Differences in oscillometric MAP and HR between time points and across treatments were evaluated by mANOVA. Intravenous isotonic crystalloid infusions over 15 min did not significantly change MAP or HR in hypotensive dogs under general anesthesia. Neither LRS, PLYTE nor PLYTECA exacerbated hypotension or caused tachycardia.
Video Conference Technology as a Tool for Pair Introduction in Rhesus Macaques
Authors: Stull Cara , Heagerty Allison , Coleman Kristine
Published: July 2022

Pair housing is known to promote welfare for macaques in captivity. However, finding compatible partners can be challenging, particularly when animals are not located near one another. Because macaques show interest in videos of conspecifics, we examined the use of video conference technology (Zoom) as a potential tool to assess compatibility in 84 rhesus macaques (2–22 years old) prior to pair introduction. Monkeys involved in the pairs (12 female–female, 21 male–male, 9 female–male) were unfamiliar with each other. We set up a 10 min Zoom session between potential partners (on an iPad in front of the cage). We scored attention to the screen, anxiety, and prosocial behaviors and examined whether these behaviors predicted future pair success. Monkeys spent relatively little time attending to the tablet (median = 13.3%), and attention did not predict pair success (B = −0.06, NS). However, pairs in which attention was primarily shown by one animal had a higher chance of success than those in which both individuals showed similar levels (B = −4.66. p = 0.03). Neither prosocial (B = 0.89, NS) nor anxiety (B = −1.95, p = 0.07) behavior correlated with pair success. While preliminary, our data suggest that video conferencing technology may be useful as a tool for introducing unfamiliar partners prior to a socialization attempt.
Long-Term Sustainability of Marble Waste Sludge in Reducing Soil Acidity and Heavy Metal Release in a Contaminated Mine Technosol
Authors: Fernández-Caliani Juan Carlos , Giráldez Inmaculada , Fernández-Landero Sandra , Barba-Brioso Cinta , Morales Emilio
Published: July 2022

A field-based experiment was set up to evaluate the effectiveness of a single application of marble waste sludge (MWS) on chemical immobilization of potentially hazardous trace elements (PHE) within the soil profile of a mine Technosol under natural assisted remediation for 12 years. Results showed that MWS amendment significantly reduced soil acidity and PHE mobility compared to unamended soil, thus improving soil health and plant growth. The amendment application had a sustained acid-neutralizing action, as soil pH remains relatively constant at between 5.8 and 6.4 throughout the entire profile (70 cm depth). In addition to diluting pollutants, the treatment triggered a redistribution of trace elements among the various operationally defined geochemical pools, shifting the PHE speciation from water-soluble forms to fractions associated with carbonates (29% Cd), metal oxides (40–48% Zn, Cd, Cu, and Ni), organic matter (22% Cu and Ni), and insoluble secondary oxidation minerals and residual phases (80–99% As, Cr, Sb, Tl, and Pb), thereby effectively limiting its potential environmental significance. MWS treatment to immobilize PHE in the contaminated mine Technosol was effective and persistent while in the untreated soil metal release is continuing over time.
Comparison of Heavy Metals and Arsenic Species in Seaweeds Collected from Different Regions in Korea
Authors: Lee Ka Jeong , Kang Eun Hye , Yoon Minchul , Jo Mi Ra , Yu Hongsik , Son Kwang Tae , Jeong Sang Hyeon , Kim Ji Hoe
Published: July 2022

We evaluated the levels of heavy metals and arsenic (As) species in 11 different types of seaweed collected from major coastal cities in Korea. The concentration ranges of heavy metals in the seaweed were as follows: cadmium (0.023–0.232 mg/kg fresh weight [fw]), and lead (0.025–0.222 mg/kg fw), with most meeting international regulations for edible seaweeds. The amount of total As, however, was high, ranging from 1.020 to 20.525 mg/kg fw. Especially in the case of Sargassum seaweed, the fraction of inorganic As, including arsenate (As [V]) and arsenate (As [III]), which have potent toxicity, ranged from 5.198 to 16.867 mg/kg fw, while other seaweeds, such as Pyropia sp., Enteromorpha sp., Undaria sp., and Saccharina sp., predominantly contained a non-toxic organic As (i.d. arsenosugars). Multivariate analysis revealed that the Sargassum genus group had high levels of inorganic As. Sargassum seaweeds had a high fraction of inorganic As, but most of them are considered inedible seaweeds. Of these, Sargassum fusiforme (hijiki) is widely recognized as an edible seaweed, but the average daily intake is quite low based on statistical data from Asian countries and S. fusiforme is considered a safe food when eaten at the recommended daily intake.
Physical and Augmented Dynamics of a Cultural Event
Authors: Shih Naai-Jung , Chen Tzu-Yu
Published: July 2022

The Taiwan Lantern Festival (TLF) is a specific cultural tradition that has evolved over many years. It is a large-scale festival as determined by the large number of installations and visitors—that is, 20 million visitors in a period of two weeks. The aim of this study is to combine the TLF-related physical dynamics of land use and lantern installations with the augmented dynamics of lantern installations at reallocated sites. We compared five cities in Taiwan with regard to land alterations between 2016 and 2020. The TLF land assessment identified 34 cross-referred types of land use between aerial imagery and GIS surveys in a small area of 2 km × 2 km, in total. The change in land use by year varied between 2% and 499%, up to three times. The complexity of physical dynamics was re-experienced by a more sustainable dynamic of augmented reality (AR) using a scan-to-AR approach to reactivate the installations and fabrics at redeployed sites. The installations of the 2016 TLF were applied. We found that the land use, 3D scan, and AR reshaped the spatio-temporal festivalscape by both types of dynamics. The simulation demonstrated that the fabric retrieved by heterogeneous technologies had equal importance in assessing the host city and in enabling a reactivation for more diversified scales and characters, even with a smartphone AR.
Broadband Mobile Applications’ Adoption by SMEs in Taiwan—A Multi-Perspective Study of Determinants
Authors: Chiu Chui-Yu , Chen Chun-Liang , Chen Shi
Published: July 2022

The purpose of this study is to explore what determinants affect small and medium enterprises regarding the adoption of broadband mobile applications. Today, broadband mobile applications are changing the business landscape rapidly, which presents a vital issue for enterprises to understand and tackle. Both qualitative and quantitative methods were applied in this study in order to analyze the issues enterprises may face with broadband mobile applications. Qualitatively, a preliminary study was conducted based on a review of literature to explore the factors that impact small and medium enterprises. Quantitatively, Structural Equation Modeling and AMOS were deployed to further examine the potential factors. As broadband mobile applications are mostly installed in the personal mobile device and operated by individuals, this study integrated the perspective of internal users along with the Technology-Organization-Environment framework to develop an ITOE research model to provide a more comprehensive view on the determinants and factors. The practicality and feasibility of the ITOE research model were then verified by the study results through the fifteen determinants identified. Based on the findings, implications and future research directions are proposed.
Torsional Stiffness Analysis Based on Lagrangian Method for Precision Rotary Vector Reducer with Involute Variable Tooth Thickness
Authors: Chang Le , Huang Yucheng , Ullah Najeeb , Zhu Ling , Lv Zhenyu , Jing Yuanlin
Published: July 2022

The precision rotary vector reducer with involute variable tooth thickness (PRVT) is a high-performance precision transmission device, which is very suitable for aerospace, medical machinery, industrial robots, automation equipment, and other fields, and its torsional stiffness is an important performance index. This paper establishes a dynamics model of the whole machine based on the Lagrangian method by considering gear meshing stiffness, damping, and machining errors, and the influence of different machining errors on dynamic torsional stiffness is studied. The results show that increasing the distribution circle radius error of the crankshaft, the crank angle error and the distribution circle radius error of the crankshaft bearing hole on the carrier will cause the peak-to-peak torsional stiffness to increase. Therefore, the machining errors should be controlled within a reasonable range to improve the whole machine’s stability. An increase in the crankshaft bearing hole rotation error on the No. 1 beveloid gear has no notable impact on the peak-to-peak value and the average value of the torsional stiffness. Similarly, the rotation angle error of the crankshaft bearing hole on the No. 1 carrier has no significant effect on the torsional stiffness. The research results provide a useful reference for the torsional stiffness analysis of PRVT.