bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Students’ Online Information Searching Strategies and Their Creative Question Generation: The Moderating Effect of Their Need for Cognitive Closure
Authors: Mao Shibo , Wang Di , Tang Chaoying , Dong Pinhua
Published: May 2022

With the wide application of computers and digital technologies, online information searching is being integrated into students’ learning process. Improving students’ creative question generation through online information searching is an emerging research topic in the creativity and pedagogy field. Online information searching brings diversified information, but it also leads to cognitive load brought by a large amount of online information. Using online information searching to generate creative questions depends on students’ cognitive properties. However, the existing literature ignores the joint influence of students’ online information searching strategies and cognitive properties on their creative question generation. This study puts forward three hypotheses: first, the two strategies of students’ online information searching (“keywords” and “Web page exploration”) will increase their creative question generation; second, the impact of “keywords” is negatively moderated by students’ need for cognitive closure (NFCC); third, the impact of “Web page exploration” is positively moderated by NFCC. The main reason is that high NFCC prevents students from obtaining diversified perspectives by using different keywords, but it helps to avoid distractions caused by a large amount of online information and promote the persistency of their reading information. Based on the data of quasi-experimental tasks completed by 90 students in Grade 7 and Grade 8, the results support the above hypothesis. The contributions of creative question generation theory and NFCC theory, as well as important issues of future study, are discussed.
From Deep-Level Similarity to Subordinate Moqi: The Mediating Role of Leader-Member Exchange
Authors: Li Lan , Zheng Xingshan , Sun Siwei
Published: May 2022

Fostering subordinate moqi is a significant method to improve the cooperating quality and promote positive outcomes. However, little is known about the influencing factors and mechanisms of subordinate moqi. To address this issue and explore the influencing factors of subordinate moqi, we draw on self-categorization theory to develop a mediation model to examine whether and how deep-level similarity affects subordinate moqi, casting the leader-member exchange (LMX) as a mediator. A two-wave online survey was conducted and 316 data was collected. A Structure Equation Modeling analysis was used to test all hypotheses with Mplus 7. Results showed that the deep-level similarity could positively predict subordinate moqi and LMX, respectively. Additionally, LMX was a significant predictor of subordinate moqi as well as it mediated the positive relationships between deep-level similarity and subordinate moqi. These findings expand our understanding of the antecedents of subordinate moqi. It is suggested that developing subordinates’ deep-level similarity with supervisors and LMX relationships are instrumental in cultivating subordinate moqi which promote positive outcomes. Organizations should integrate effective management programs into managerial strategies to enhance deep-level similarity and LMX, in turn, fosters subordinate moqi.
Recovery From Ostracism Distress: The Role of Attribution
Authors: Yaakobi Erez
Published: May 2022

Ostracism is known to cause psychological distress. Thus, defining the factors that can lead to recovery or diminish these negative effects is crucial. Three experiments examined whether suggesting the possible causes of ostracism to victims could decrease or eliminate their ostracism distress. They also examined whether death-anxiety mediated the association between the suggested possible cause for being ostracized and recovery. Participants (N = 656) were randomly assigned to six experimental and control groups and were either ostracized or included in a game of Cyberball. Two control conditions were used: participants who were ostracized but received no explanation and participants who were included. Immediately after the ostracism experience, participants in the experimental groups were presented with one of four causes for being ostracized, using locus of control (internal, external) and stability (stable, unstable), the two causal dimensions of Weiner’s attribution theory. After a short delay they were administered a mood or needs-satisfaction questionnaire. The results highlight the interaction between locus of control and stability, and underscore the relative importance of different attributions in alleviating self-reported ostracism distress. Specifically, both external and unstable attributions decreased distress, and an unstable attribution led to complete recovery in some participants. Thus, recovery from ostracism may be accelerated when the victim receives an explanation for ostracism that attributes the incident to unstable, external causes soon after the incident. Death-anxiety fully mediated the association between locus of control attribution and mood, but for on needs-satisfaction or the stability of the attribution.
Early Improvement Predicts Clinical Outcomes Similarly in 10 Hz rTMS and iTBS Therapy for Depression
Authors: Spitz Nathen A. , Pace Benjamin D. , Ten Eyck Patrick , Trapp Nicholas T.
Published: May 2022

Background

Prior studies have demonstrated that early treatment response with transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) can predict overall response, yet none have directly compared that predictive capacity between intermittent theta-burst stimulation (iTBS) and 10 Hz repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) for depression. Our study sought to test the hypothesis that early clinical improvement could predict ultimate treatment response in both iTBS and 10 Hz rTMS patient groups and that there would not be significant differences between the modalities.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated response to treatment in 105 participants with depression that received 10 Hz rTMS (n = 68) and iTBS (n = 37) to the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC). Percent changes from baseline to treatment 10 (t10), and to final treatment (tf), were used to calculate confusion matrices including negative predictive value (NPV). Treatment non-response was defined as <50% reduction in PHQ-9 scores according to literature, and population, data-driven non-response was defined as <40% for 10 Hz and <45% for iTBS.

Results

For both modalities, the NPV related to degree of improvement at t10. NPV for 10 Hz was 74%, 82% and 73% at t10 in those who failed to improve >20, >10, and >0% respectively; while iTBS NPV rates were 65, 71, and 60%. There were not significant differences between protocols at any t10 cut-off assessed, whether research defined 50% improvement as response or data driven kernel density estimates (p = 0.46–0.79).

Conclusion

Patients who fail to achieve >10% improvement by t10 with both 10 Hz rTMS and iTBS therapies have 70–80% chance of non-response to treatment. With no significant differences between predictive capacities, identifying patients at-risk for non-response affords psychiatrists greater opportunity to adapt treatment strategies.
Association Between Self-rating Depression Scores and Total Ghrelin and Adipokine Serum Levels in a Large Population-Based Sample
Authors: Wittekind Dirk Alexander , Kratzsch Jürgen , Biemann Ronald , Mergl Roland , Riedel-Heller Steffi , Witte Veronika , Villringer Arno , Kluge Michael
Published: May 2022

Background

Ghrelin and the adipokines leptin and adiponectin have been suggested to be involved in mood and anxiety regulation and to be altered in affective disorders. However, studies investigating the association between ghrelin, leptin and adiponectin and depressive symptomatology are scarce but might contribute to a better understanding of their involvement in mood regulation. We thus aimed investigating the association between depressive symptomatology and total ghrelin as well as leptin and adiponectin serum levels in a large population-based sample.

Methods

Total serum ghrelin, adiponectin and leptin levels were determined in 1666 subjects of a population-based cross-sectional study (“LIFE”). The Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) and the Inventory of Depressive Symptoms – Self Rating (IDS-SR) were administered. Multiple linear regression analyses were conducted to examine the association between total serum ghrelin, leptin and adiponectin and the intensity of depressive symptoms.

Results

In the total sample (n = 1,092), neither ghrelin nor leptin or adiponectin serum levels showed a significant association with CES-D or IDS-SR sum scores (N = 1,092) or in depressed/non-depressed subjects. Leptin serum levels showed a significantly positive association with IDS-SR sum scores in elderly men (≥60 years; β = 0.122, 95% CI: 0.009; 0.236; p = 0.035).

Conclusion

Our study suggests that peripheral levels of ghrelin and adipokines in a cross-sectional study design might not be sufficient to measure their involvement in depression, suggesting that associations are more complex and multi-layered.
Altered Spontaneous Brain Activity Patterns of Meibomian Gland Dysfunction in Severely Obese Population Measured Using the Fractional Amplitude of Low-Frequency Fluctuations
Authors: Xu Yu-Ling , Wang Xiao-Yu , Chen Jun , Kang Min , Wang Yi-Xin , Zhang Li-Juan , Shu Hui-Ye , Liao Xu-Lin , Zou Jie , Wei Hong , Ling Qian , Shao Yi
Published: May 2022

Objective

Utilizing the fractional amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations (fALFF) technique, this study sought to correlate spontaneous cerebral abnormalities with the clinical manifestations of meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) in severely obese (SO) population.

Subjects and Methods

Twelve MGD patients in SO population (PATs) (4 males and 8 females) and twelve healthy controls (HCs) (6 males and 6 females) matched by gender and age were enrolled. Every participant underwent resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-MRI) scanning. Spontaneous cerebral activity alterations were examined using the fALFF method. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were utilized to classify the medial fALFF values of the PATs and HCs. PATs were also asked to complete anxiety and depression score forms, permitting a correlation analysis.

Results

In contrast with HCs, PATs had prominently increased fALFF values in the left lingual gyrus, the right globus pallidus, the right anterior cingulate and paracingulate gyri and the left middle occipital lobe (P < 0.05), and decreased fALFF values in the right cerebellum, the left fusiform gyrus, the right medial orbitofrontal gyrus, the left triangle inferior frontal gyrus and the left inferior parietal gyrus (P < 0.05). The results of the ROC curve indicated that changes in regional fALFF values might help diagnose MGD in SO population. Moreover, fALFF values in the right cerebellum of PATs were positively correlated with hospital anxiety and depression scores (HADS) (r = 0.723, P = 0.008). The fALFF values in the left triangle inferior frontal gyrus of PAT were negatively correlated with HADS (r = −0.651, P = 0.022).

Conclusions

Aberrant spontaneous activity was observed in multiple regions of the cerebrum, offering helpful information about the pathology of MGD in SO population. Aberrant fALFF values in these regions likely relates to the latent pathologic mechanisms of anomalous cerebral activities in PATs.
Addressing External Shock in Urban Agglomeration: Implications From the Transmission Pattern of COVID-19 in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Area
Authors: Huang Daohan , Wen Fenghua , Li Shunru
Published: May 2022

Properly addressing external shocks in urban agglomeration is critical to sustaining the complex regional system. The COVID-19 pandemic has been widely acknowledged as an unintended external shock, but the temporal and spatial transmission patterns are largely ignored. This study analyzed the temporal and spatial transmission patterns of COVID-19 at the macro, meso, and micro levels, and proposes a conceptual model for regional comprehensive risk calculation, taking the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei (BTH) area as the focus region. Our results showed that 1) at the temporal scale, the epidemic in the BTH area experienced stages of rapid increase, gradual decrease, and stabilization, and the first wave of the epidemic was under control from 23 February 2020; 2) at the spatial scale, confirmed cases were largely distributed at the terminal of the migration network, with closely interconnected cities in the BTH area, including Beijing, Tianjin, Tangshan, and Langfang, holding the highest comprehensive epidemic risk, thus requiring special attention for epidemic prevention and control. Finally, a “two-wheels” conceptual framework was built to discuss implications for future policies for addressing external shocks. Our proposed framework consists of an isolation wheel, which involves information sharing from the holistic perspective, and a circulation wheel, which emphasizes stakeholder involvement from the individual perspective. The findings of this study provide a knowledge basis for epidemic prevention and control as well as useful implications for addressing external shocks in the future.
Natural History of Anal Papillomavirus Infection in HIV-Negative Men Who Have Sex With Men Based on a Markov Model: A 5-Year Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Zhang Zewen , Ling Xi , Liu Lirong , Xi Miaomiao , Zhang Guozhen , Dai Jianghong
Published: May 2022

Objective

Men who have sex with men (MSM) are at increased risk for Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection compared to women and heterosexual men. We aimed to assess the incidence, clearance and duration of anal human papillomavirus (HPV) infection in HIV-negative MSM and the influencing factors in a 5-year prospective cohort study.

Methods

From April 2016 to April 2021, HIV-negative MSM were recruited and followed every 6 months in Urumqi, Xinjiang, China. Questionnaires and anal swabs were collected at baseline and every 6 months. We detected 37 anal HPV genotypes using the HPV Geno Array Diagnostic Kit Test. Incidence and clearance rates of anal HPV infection and the influencing factors were estimated using a two-state Markov model.

Results

A total of 585 MSM were included with a median age of 37 years [interquartile range (IQR): 31–43 years] and were followed for a median 2.8 years (IQR: 1.8–3.6 years). Incidence rates for any HPV and high-risk HPV (Hr-HPV) were 53.4 [95% confidence interval (CI): 49.1–58.0] and 39.0 (95% CI: 35.7–42.5)/1,000 person-months. Median duration of infection was 9.67 (95% CI: 8.67–10.86) and 8.51 (95% CI: 7.57–9.50) months, respectively. Clearance rates for any HPV and Hr-HPV were 50.9 (95% CI: 46.7–55.3) and 62.1 (95% CI: 56.8–66.7)/1,000 person-months, respectively. HPV16 and HPV6 had the highest incidence, lowest clearance rate and longest duration of infection among Hr-HPV and low-risk HPV (Lr-HPV) types, respectively. Receptive anal sex is a risk factor for any HPV [hazard ratio (HR) = 1.66, 95% CI: 1.16–2.38] and Hr-HPV infection (HR = 1.99, 95% CI:1.39–2.85). Recent anal sex without condom use was significantly associated with any HPV (HR = 1.80, 95% CI: 1.10–2.94) and Hr-HPV infection (HR = 2.60, 95% CI: 1.42–4.77). Age ≥35 years was significantly associated with Lr-HPV HPV infection only (HR = 1.40, 95% CI: 1.02–1.93). Both inserted and receptive anal sex (HR = 0.60, 95% CI: 0.40–0.89) and anal sex ≥2 times per week (HR = 0.61, 95% CI: 0.43–0.87) were associated with reduced Hr-HPV clearance. Six of the nine-valent vaccine types (HPV6, 11, 16, 18, 52 and 58) occurred most frequently, which indicates the need for high vaccination coverage in MSM.

Conclusions

In this cohort study, high incidence and low clearance of any HPV, Hr-HPV and individual HPV infections emphasize the importance of MSM vaccination. Modifiable behavioral factors such as condoms and drug use should be incorporated into HPV prevention strategies.
The Influence of Emotional Intelligence on Job Burnout of Healthcare Workers and Mediating Role of Workplace Violence: A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Cao Yiyin , Gao Lei , Fan Lihua , Jiao Mingli , Li Ye , Ma Yuanshuo
Published: May 2022

Objective

Globally, reducing job burnout among healthcare workers is considered a basic healthcare policy goal. Emotional intelligence, as an essential protective factor against psychosocial risks and a measurable positive psychological resource, still receives less attention in the process of reducing job burnout among healthcare workers. This study aims to explore the level of job burnout among healthcare workers who are victims of workplace violence in China, to examine the influence of emotional intelligence on job burnout among healthcare workers, and to verify the mediating role of workplace violence; furthermore, providing a new perspective for health organizations and hospital administrators in order to relieve the level of job burnout and workplace violence among healthcare workers.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was used to collect data from six tertiary public hospitals in three provinces (cities) in Eastern (Shandong and Tianjin) and Western (Gansu) China in 2018, which are large healthcare sites providing care to patients upon referral from primary and secondary hospitals. A total of 2,450 questionnaires were distributed, with 2,061 valid questionnaires and a valid return rate of 88.95%. Of these, 825 healthcare workers had experienced workplace violence, accounting for 40.03% of the sample. A descriptive analysis, univariate analysis, Pearson correlation analysis, and mediated regression analysis were used to assess the level of job burnout among healthcare workers who are victims of violence, the effect of emotional intelligence on job burnout, and the mediating role of workplace violence.

Results

The mean job burnout score of the healthcare personnel who were victims of violence was 35.56, with 70% suffering from moderate and high burnout. The emotional intelligence of healthcare workers is significantly negatively correlated with the degree of job burnout (Emotional exhaustion: r = 0.18, p < 0.01, Depersonalization: r = 0.24, p < 0.01, Reduced personal achievement: r = 0.24, p < 0.01) and workplace violence frequency (r = −0.22, p < 0.01). Further, workplace violence has a partial mediating effect on emotional intelligence and the two dimensions of job burnout (emotional exhaustion and depersonalization).

Conclusions

This study is the first to combine emotional intelligence level, experiences of workplace violence, and job burnout levels of healthcare workers. We suggest that improving the emotional intelligence of healthcare staff has practical significance in reducing the level of job burnout directly and will reduce the incidence of burnout by reducing the frequency of violence (especially for emotional exhaustion and depersonalization). We provide specific and effective strategies for developing and guiding healthcare workers in the healthcare sector based on emotional intelligence.
Case Report: Therapeutic Strategy With Delayed Debridement for Culture-Negative Invasive Group A Streptococcal Infections Diagnosed by Metagenomic Next-Generation Sequencing
Authors: He Wenfang , Wu Chenfang , Zhong Yanjun , Li Jinxiu , Wang Guyi , Yu Bo , Xu Ping , Xiao Yiwen , Tang Tiantian
Published: May 2022

Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS) caused by group A streptococcus is a rare condition that rapidly developed to multiple organ failure even death. Therefore, prompt diagnosis, initiate appropriate antibiotics and other supportive treatments are critical. Here we reported a case of STSS caused by group A streptococcus infection. A healthy 39-year-old man presented a sudden pain in the left lower extremity, followed by a high fever (40.0 °C) with dizziness, nausea, and shortness of breath. Twenty-four hours before the visit, the patient showed anuria. The patient was then admitted to the intensive care unit. Blood examination revealed elevated levels of inflammatory markers and creatinine. He suffered from septic shock, dysfunction of coagulation, acute kidney dysfunction, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and acute liver function injury. The diagnosis was obtained through clinical manifestation and metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) drawn from the pustule and deep soft tissue (lower limb) samples while all bacterial cultures came back negative. The pustule mNGS report detected a total of 132 unique group A streptococcus sequence reads, representing 96.3% of microbial reads while the soft tissue mNGS report identified a total of 142474 unique group A streptococcus sequence reads, representing 100% of microbial reads. The patient was treated with aggressive fluid resuscitation, antibiotics comprising piperacillin/tazobactam and clindamycin, respiratory support, following the delayed surgical debridement. Intravenous immunoglobulin was also used for 5 days. On the 14th day after admission, he was transferred to the general ward for follow-up treatment. Our case highlighted, for the first time, the key role of mNGS in the early diagnosis of culture-negative invasive group A streptococcal infection. The case also suggested that clindamycin combined with beta-lactam antibiotics and adjunction of intravenous immunoglobulin therapy with delayed debridement performed well in the management of unstable STSS patients.
ODAS: Open embeddeD Audition System
Authors: Grondin François , Létourneau Dominic , Godin Cédric , Lauzon Jean-Samuel , Vincent Jonathan , Michaud Simon , Faucher Samuel , Michaud François
Published: May 2022

Artificial audition aims at providing hearing capabilities to machines, computers and robots. Existing frameworks in robot audition offer interesting sound source localization, tracking and separation performance, although involve a significant amount of computations that limit their use on robots with embedded computing capabilities. This paper presents ODAS, the Open embeddeD Audition System framework, which includes strategies to reduce the computational load and perform robot audition tasks on low-cost embedded computing systems. It presents key features of ODAS, along with cases illustrating its uses in different robots and artificial audition applications.
Monitoring Acclimatization and Training Responses Over 17–21 Days at 1,800 m in Elite Cross-Country Skiers and Biathletes
Authors: Karlsson Øyvind , Laaksonen Marko S. , McGawley Kerry
Published: May 2022

Objective

To monitor the daily variations and time course of changes in selected variables during a 17–21-day altitude training camp at 1,800 m in a group of elite cross-country skiers (9 women, 12 men) and biathletes (7 women, 4 men).

Methods

Among other variables, resting peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2rest), resting heart rate (HRrest) and urine specific gravity (USG) were monitored daily at altitude, while illness symptoms were monitored weekly. Before and after the camp, body composition (i.e., lean and fat mass) and body mass were assessed in all athletes, while roller-skiing speed at a blood lactate concentration of 4 mmol·L−1 (Speed@4mmol) was assessed in the biathletes only.

Results

Neither SpO2rest, HRrest nor USG changed systematically during the camp (p > 0.05), although some daily time points differed from day one for the latter two variables (p < 0.05). In addition, body composition and body mass were unchanged from before to after the camp (p > 0.05). Eleven out of 15 illness episodes were reported within 4 days of the outbound or homebound flight. The five biathletes who remained free of illness increased their Speed@4mmol by ~ 4% from before to after the camp (p = 0.031).

Conclusions

The present results show that measures typically recommended to monitor acclimatization and responses to altitude in athletes (e.g., SpO2rest and HRrest) did not change systematically over time. Further research is needed to explore the utility of these and other measures in elite endurance athletes at altitudes typical of competition environments.
Production Performance of Four Pig Herds Infected With Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Using the “Load-Close-Exposure” Approach in China
Authors: Zhang Zhendong , Qu Xiangyang , Wang Xiaoquan , Li Zhi , Yang Shuqing , Sun Liumei , Zhou Bin
Published: May 2022

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) is one of the most important swine diseases causing enormous losses to pig producers all over the world. The intervention measure of “load-close-exposure” [interrupting the introduction of replacement pigs combined with whole-herd exposure to live PRRS virus (PRRSV)] has been widely used in North America and has shown wonderful outcomes in controlling PRRS in the field. In the present study, we performed analyses of the production performance of four herds acutely infected with PRRSV by adopting this measure for the first time in China. Our results showed that the development rate of gilts decreased by a mean of 8.56%, the farrowing rate of breeding sows decreased from 86.18 to 77.61%, the number of piglets born alive per sow decreased by a mean of 0.73 pigs, and the pre-weaning and post-weaning mortality of piglets increased by a mean of 2.74–4.97% compared to the parameters of 6 months before an outbreak. The time to PRRSV stability (TTS), defined as the time in weeks it took to produce PRRSV-negative pigs at weaning, is an important indicator of successful control of PRRSV. The median TTS among herds A, C, and D was 21.8 weeks (21.6 22.1 weeks). In herd B, TTS was 42.3 weeks, which could be explained by the double introduction of gilts. Our study suggests that the “load-close-exposure” strategy may be a good alternative for Chinese producers and veterinaries to control PRRS in the field.
Complement-Binding Donor-Specific Anti-HLA Antibodies: Biomarker for Immunologic Risk Stratification in Pediatric Kidney Transplantation Recipients
Authors: Sigurjonsdottir Vaka K. , Purington Natasha , Chaudhuri Abanti , Zhang Bing M. , Fernandez-Vina Marcelo , Palsson Runolfur , Kambham Neeraja , Charu Vivek , Piburn Kim , Maestretti Lynn , Shah Anika , Gallo Amy , Concepcion Waldo , Grimm Paul C.
Published: May 2022

Antibody-mediated rejection is a common cause of early kidney allograft loss but the specifics of antibody measurement, therapies and endpoints have not been universally defined. In this retrospective study, we assessed the performance of risk stratification using systematic donor-specific antibody (DSA) monitoring. Included in the study were children who underwent kidney transplantation between January 1, 2010 and March 1, 2018 at Stanford, with at least 12-months follow-up. A total of 233 patients were included with a mean follow-up time of 45 (range, 9–108) months. Median age at transplant was 12.3 years, 46.8% were female, and 76% had a deceased donor transplant. Fifty-two (22%) formed C1q-binding de novo donor-specific antibodies (C1q-dnDSA). After a standardized augmented immunosuppressive protocol was implemented, C1q-dnDSA disappeared in 31 (58.5%). Graft failure occurred in 16 patients at a median of 54 (range, 5–83) months, of whom 14 formed dnDSA. The 14 patients who lost their graft due to rejection, all had persistent C1q-dnDSA. C1q-binding status improved the individual risk assessment, with persistent; C1q binding yielding the strongest independent association of graft failure (hazard ratio, 45.5; 95% confidence interval, 11.7–177.4). C1q-dnDSA is more useful than standard dnDSA as a noninvasive biomarker for identifying patients at the highest risk of graft failure.
Optimized Score Level Fusion for Multi-Instance Finger Vein Recognition
Authors: Teng Jackson Horlick , Ong Thian Song , Connie Tee , Sonai Muthu Anbananthen Kalaiarasi , Min Pa Pa
Published: May 2022

The finger vein recognition system uses blood vessels inside the finger of an individual for identity verification. The public is in favor of a finger vein recognition system over conventional passwords or ID cards as the biometric technology is harder to forge, misplace, and share. In this study, the histogram of oriented gradients (HOG) features, which are robust against changes in illumination and position, are extracted from the finger vein for personal recognition. To further increase the amount of information that can be used for recognition, different instances of the finger vein, ranging from the index, middle, and ring finger are combined to form a multi-instance finger vein representation. This fusion approach is preferred since it can be performed without requiring additional sensors or feature extractors. To combine different instances of finger vein effectively, score level fusion is adopted to allow greater compatibility among the wide range of matches. Towards this end, two methods are proposed: Bayesian optimized support vector machine (SVM) score fusion (BSSF) and Bayesian optimized SVM based fusion (BSBF). The fusion results are incrementally improved by optimizing the hyperparameters of the HOG feature, SVM matcher, and the weighted sum of score level fusion using the Bayesian optimization approach. This is considered a kind of knowledge-based approach that takes into account the previous optimization attempts or trials to determine the next optimization trial, making it an efficient optimizer. By using stratified cross-validation in the training process, the proposed method is able to achieve the lowest EER of 0.48% and 0.22% for the SDUMLA-HMT dataset and UTFVP dataset, respectively.
Institutionalization of Organizational Change Outcomes in Development Cooperation Projects: The Mediating Role of Internal Stakeholder Change-Related Beliefs
Authors: Mugenyi Andrew Ronnie , Karemera Charles , Wesana Joshua , Dooms Michaël
Published: May 2022

This paper investigated how change outcomes of development cooperation projects can be institutionalized within the beneficiary organization. While a lot of attention has been paid to sustainability in scientific research on issues, projects, and policies related to environmental, industrial, and agricultural production and sustainability management, there are limited studies on the sustainability of organizational-level change outcomes of aid-based project interventions. Using the lens of organizational change institutionalization models, we examined how internal stakeholders’ change-related beliefs, organizational characteristics, and project characteristics relate to the institutionalization process of project outcomes. Data were collected using a questionnaire returned by 130 respondents from a university in the Global South implementing institutional development cooperation projects. Using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to analyze the data, we found that organizational characteristics and change-related beliefs both had direct positive effects on the institutionalization process, while project characteristics had negative effects. Additionally, this study reveals that stakeholder change-related beliefs mediated the relationship between organizational and project characteristics and the institutionalization process. The findings support the continual engagement of organizational internal stakeholders in institutionalization efforts throughout the project life cycle, rather than waiting for the project to end. In contrast to the mechanistic, linear result chain approaches that dominate development project discourses, there is a need for more iterative approaches that allow the development of necessary attitudes and behaviors among the beneficiary organization’s internal stakeholders to sustain the project-induced changes.
Dynamic Response of Structurally Reinforced Wing Leading Edge against Soft Impact
Authors: Aslam Muhammad Azeem , Rayhan Saiaf Bin , Zhang Ke
Published: May 2022

In this current research, a commercial aircraft metallic leading edge structurally reinforced with a Y-shaped and V-shaped plate system is numerically examined to investigate the effectiveness of such reinforcements against soft impacts, more commonly known as bird strikes in the aviation industry. A non-linear finite element code Ansys Explicit is adopted to run the virtual test cases. The computational bird model is presented with the Lagrange algorithm and Mooney–Rivlin hyperelastic material parameters which are validated against the experimental data found in the literature. A second validation of the leading edge deformation pattern is also carried out to ensure the accuracy of the present work. Numerical outcomes suggest that due to the presence of the reinforcement, the leading edge skin is restrained from being drastically deformed and the bird model tears apart into two pieces requiring the leading edge model to absorb much less kinetic energy. Additionally, it is found that both the reinforcements have similar crashworthiness performance against bird impacts. The novelty of the research lies in founding the structural reinforcement as a primary preference to strengthen the vulnerable wing leading edge during bird impacts.
Sustainable Livestock Production in Nepal: A Focus on Animal Nutrition Strategies
Authors: Khanal Prabhat , Dhakal Rajan , Khanal Tanka , Pandey Deepak , Devkota Naba Raj , Nielsen Mette Olaf
Published: May 2022

In many developing countries, the livestock sector plays a vital role in the national economy, providing a source of food, income, and employment. With changes in demographical, socio-economic, and environmental status, the livestock sector in the developing world is facing challenges of low productivity and has become both a culprit and a victim of undesirable climate change impacts globally. In this paper, we will review the status of Nepalese livestock production systems and evaluate possible livestock species-specific strategies to promote a more productive and sustainable livestock sector in the future. In Nepal, the livestock sector is deemed essential to alleviate poverty and improve the nutritional status of the population, as in many other developing countries. However, there is a need for substantial improvements in livestock productivity, in particular improvement of feeding strategies to exploit the genetic potential of livestock. For ruminants, the important issue is to improve nutritional value and hence utilization of existing feedstuffs. Use of, e.g., urea, molasses, and enzymes to improve feed digestibility and implementation of technologies to effectively preserve biomass from forages that are only seasonally available are necessary strategic measures. Identification and use of novel anti-methanogenic feed ingredients will be crucial to develop a ruminant livestock sector that is not only productive, but also environmentally sustainable. For monogastric animals, the development and use of novel protein feed ingredients, such as insects raised on indigestible (for monogastrics) plant residues, should become part of future feeding strategies in support of a circular bioeconomy and improved productivity, not least in small scale poultry production. Future policies should also include a strong focus on capacity building and development of research infrastructure, and promotion of collaborative activities among research and industry sectors to establish a productive yet sustainable livestock sector in Nepal.
Correction: Li et al. Mitigation of Airborne PRRSV Transmission with UV Light Treatment: Proof-of-Concept. Agriculture 2021, 11, 259
Authors: Li Peiyang , Koziel Jacek A. , Zimmerman Jeffrey J. , Zhang Jianqiang , Cheng Ting-Yu , Yim-Im Wannarat , Jenks William S. , Lee Myeongseong , Chen Baitong , Hoff Steven J.
Published: May 2022

We would like to make corrections to the original article [...]
Gender-Differentiated Poverty among Migrant Workers: Aggregation and Decomposition Analysis of the Chinese Case for the Years 2012–2018
Authors: Peng Jiquan , Chen Juan , Zhang Liguo
Published: May 2022

The relative poverty statuses of female and male migrant workers are complex: (i) as a group, migrant workers are relatively better off than their rural hometown fellow residents but are deprived compared to the long-term residents of the cities to which they have immigrated, and (ii) gender differences exist between female and male subgroups, resulting from the interaction of gender bias and empowerment. The former can be further decomposed into characteristic-led bias and bias arising from discrimination. However, little is known about the different facets of gender-differentiated poverty that pose challenges for migrant workers. This study used data collected from Chinese Family Panel Studies (CFPS) during the period 2012–2018 to address this research deficiency. This study conducted a poverty aggregation using a multidimensional relative poverty index system based on the Alkire and Foster (A–F) method to offer an overview of the gender differences in the overall relative poverty statuses of Chinese migrant workers. Further, to validate the existence of gender bias, this study conducted a decomposition analysis based on unconditional quantile regression (UCQR) of the explanatory model of relative poverty. The results of the combination of the aggregation and decomposition analysis data imply that, despite the gender discrimination that female migrant workers encounter, they are generally better off than male migrant workers due to their slight characteristic-led advantages and, more importantly, their autonomous poverty reduction activities. This study theoretically contributes to an in-depth understanding of gender differences in migrant workers’ relative poverty. In addition, this study advocates more targeted and sustainable poverty reduction solutions. For instance, more targeted payment transfer and long-term (vocational development, entrepreneurship, and lifestyle) empowering projects should be highlighted.
Impact of Freshwater Macroalga (Cladophora glomerata) Extract on the Yield and Morphological Responses of Glycine max (L.) Merr.
Authors: Lewandowska Sylwia , Marczewski Krzysztof , Kozak Marcin , Ohkama-Ohtsu Naoko , Łabowska Magdalena , Detyna Jerzy , Michalak Izabela
Published: May 2022

The objective of this study was to investigate the response of Japanese and Polish soybean varieties to algal extract in terms of yield and other agronomic traits. A field experiment was conducted in 2019 at Pawlowice Experimental Station near Wroclaw city (Poland) to study the effect of a foliar spray of the algal extract prepared from freshwater Cladophora glomerata on the growth of two varieties of soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill.)—Polish Erica and Japanese Enrei—cultivated under Polish environmental conditions. The foliar spray was applied once during the beginning of the soybean flowering (BBCH65) at one concentration (20%) of algal extract. The research showed that the foliar application of C. glomerata extract significantly enhanced the yield parameters. The plant height, first pod height, number of first branches, 1000-seed weight and yield were significantly higher compared with the control. The home variety Erica was better adapted to the climatic conditions in Poland than the Japanese variety Enrei. The study confirms that a foliar spray of algal extracts could be a promising option to increase soybean yield. The enhanced growth of the crop may be due to the presence of growth-promoting substances occurring in the algal extract.
Wetting Front Velocity Determination in Soil Infiltration Processes: An Experimental Sensitivity Analysis
Authors: Rubio Eduardo , Rubio-Alfaro María del Socorro , Hernández-Marín Martín
Published: May 2022

An experimental approach for measuring the wetting front velocity in soils during water infiltration processes is presented. This experimental research is developed to test the sensitivity of the measurement technique in the detection of differences in the dynamics of the wetting front advancement in different soil testing scenarios. Experimental scenarios include undisturbed and artificially compacted soils, square and circular cross-sections of soil samples, water flowing in both directions downward and horizontal, and water infiltration in a block soil sample. The measurement technique is based on wetting front detection employing moisture sensors that measure the soil’s electrical conductivity. The technique was able to detect differences in wetting front in contrasting scenarios. Two-dimensional wetting front advancement experiments carried out on a block sample confirmed the results obtained for the one-dimensional case.
No Effect of Biostimulants on the Growth, Yield and Nutritional Value of Shallots Grown for Bunch Harvest
Authors: Francke Anna , Majkowska-Gadomska Joanna , Kaliniewicz Zdzisław , Jadwisieńczak Krzysztof
Published: May 2022

Shallots (Allium cepa L. Aggregatum group) are cultivated on small areas, mostly to harvest mature bulbs with dry scales. Due to their exceptional taste and nutritional value, and a short growing season, they can also be grown for early bunch harvest. New shallot cultivation strategies are being sought to meet consumers’ growing expectations regarding the quality of vegetables, and their increasing awareness of global food safety. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of selected biostimulants on the biometric parameters, yield and nutritional value of shallot bulbs and leaves. The experimental factors were as follows: two biostimulant types—Effective Microorganisms (EM) and Goëmar Goteo (GG), two shallot cultivars—Bonilla F1 and Matador F1, grown for bunch harvest, and year of the study. Shallot leaves had a higher content of L-ascorbic acid, reducing sugars and nitrates than bulbs. Young bulbs had a higher content of DM and total sugars than leaves. The leaves and bulbs of shallot plants treated with EM accumulated the highest amounts of minerals. Macronutrient ratios were closer to optimal in shallot leaves than bulbs. The nitrate content of bulbs was inversely proportional to the nitrate content of leaves. Therefore, an increase in the nitrate content of leaves by around 330% led to an approximately 40% decrease in the nitrate content of bulbs. The correlations between the parameters of the chemical composition of shallots and shallot leaves show that the increase in the dry matter content of the bulbs (by approx. 60%) was accompanied by an increase in the L-ascorbic acid content in the leaves (by approx. 240%). The use of biostimulants in the cultivation of A. cepa L. Aggregatum group contributed to the reduction of L-ascorbic acid content in bulbs and had no positive effect on the leaves. Moreover, no positive effect of biostimulants on the reduction of nitrate content in shallot leaves and bulbs was observed, which is undesirable from the consumer’s point of view. After the use of biopreparations, the yield of shallots was lower than that of the control—by approx. 14% (EM) and approx. 4% (GG). Therefore, the measurable benefits of biostimulants in the cultivation of shallots grown for early bunch harvest do not balance the costs of their purchase and use.
Estimation of Genetic Variances and Stability Components of Yield-Related Traits of Green Super Rice at Multi-Environmental Conditions in Pakistan
Authors: Zaid Imdad Ullah , Zahra Nageen , Habib Madiha , Naeem Muhammad Kashif , Asghar Umair , Uzair Muhammad , Latif Anila , Rehman Anum , Ali Ghulam Muhammad , Khan Muhammad Ramzan
Published: May 2022

Identifying adopted Green Super Rice (GSR) under different agro-ecological locations in Pakistan is crucial to sustaining the high productivity of rice. For this purpose, the multi-location trials of GSR were conducted to evaluate the magnitude of genetic variability, heritability, and stability in eight different locations in Pakistan. The experimental trial was laid out in a randomized complete block (RCB) design with three replications at each location. The combined analysis of variance (ANOVA) manifested significant variations for tested genotypes (g), locations (L), years (Y), genotype × year (GY), and genotype × location (GL) interactions revealing the influence of environmental factors (L and Y) on yield traits. High broad-sense heritability estimates were observed for all the studied traits representing low environmental influence over the expression of traits. Noticeably, GSR 48 showed maximum stability than all other lines in the univariate model across the two years for grain yield and related traits data. Multivariate stability analysis characterized GSR 305 and GSR 252 as the highest yielding with optimum stability across the eight tested locations. Overall, Narowal, Muzaffargarh, and Swat were the most stable locations for GSR cultivation in Pakistan. In conclusion, this study revealed that G×E interactions were an important source of rice yield variation, and its AMMI and biplots analysis are efficient tools for visualizing the response of genotypes to different locations.
Fungal-Based Biopesticide Formulations to Control Nymphs and Adults of the Desert Locust, Schistocerca gregaria Forskål (Orthoptera: Acrididae): A Laboratory and Field Cage Study
Authors: Wakil Waqas , Ghazanfar Muhammad Usman , Usman Muhammad , Hunter David , Shi Wangpeng
Published: May 2022

This is the first field study in which we have tested the efficacy of four different entomopathogenic fungal (EPF) formulations together in single study—i.e., Green Muscle, Green Guard, Metarhizium anisopliae, and an isolate of Beauveria bassiana (isolate WG-11)—against nymphs and adults of the desert locust, Schistocerca gregaria Forskål (Orthoptera: Acrididae). We conducted several different studies: (a) lethal bioassay against the 3rd, 5th, and adult stages under laboratory conditions; (b) sublethal effects on the reproduction, diet consumption, fecal production, and weight gain; (c) a greenhouse trial; and (d) a field cage trial. Under laboratory conditions, all EPF formulations caused significant mortality, and the highest efficacy was observed with Green Muscle, followed by Green Guard, B. bassiana, and M. anisopliae. Susceptibility was found to be greatest in 3rd-instar nymphs, followed by 5th instars, and then adults. Along with lethal effects, sublethal doses of EPF reduced the number of egg pods per female, total eggs per pod, and egg hatching, while extending nymphal developmental time and reducing adult longevity; again, Green Muscle performed better. Sublethal doses not only retarded reproduction, but also caused behavioral changes, including reductions in food consumption, fecal production, and weight gain. All EPF formulations not only produced significant mortality in laboratory conditions, but also performed very well under the greenhouse and field conditions. The maximum mortality against 3rd-instar (81.7% and 74.0%), 5th-instar (73.3% and 65.1%), and adult locusts (67.5% and 58.9%) was observed when using Green Muscle under greenhouse and field trials, respectively. The current study showed that all of the EPF formulations have the potential to reduce pest populations, and could be used in the integrated pest management program.