bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of lower-extremity explosive strength on youth judo athletes adopting different types of power-based resistance training
Authors: Huang Ruiyin , Zhang Mingyang , Huang Linjie , Chen Zilong , Mo Yong , Gao Yuhua
Published: March 2023

Objective: The present study compared the effects of two different resistance types (pneumatic resistance and free weight) of 6-week squat training on the performance for young female judo athletes in linear speed and vertical jump by utilizing the maximum power of each set of squats in each training session as the monitoring vehicle. Monitoring data were used to assess the effects and trends of the two resistance types on 70% 1RM weight-bearing during the 6-week intervention training.

Methods: In a 6 weeks squat training (2 reps/week with a constant load), 23 adolescent female judo athletes (Age span: 13–16 years, 14.58 ± 0.96) were randomly selected and then divided into the traditional barbell (FW) group (n = 12) and the pneumatic resistance (PN) (n = 11) group according to different resistance types (free weight and pneumatic resistance), with 10 in FW group and 9 in PN group actually completed the study. Before and after training, the 30-m Sprint time (T-30M), vertical jump height and relative power (countermovement jump, static-squat jump, and drop jump), reactive strength index (DJ-RSI), and maximal strength were assessed. One-Way ANOVA was used to examine the pre-test differences of groups (FW and PN). A 2-factor mixed-model analysis of variance was used to examine the independent effects of group (FW and PN) and time (pre and post) on each dependent measure. Scheffe post hoc comparisons were used to examine the differences. Pre- and post-experimental differences between the two groups were analyzed using independent samples t-tests and magnitude-based inferences (MBI) derived from their p values, and effect statistics were applied to compare the pre- and post-changes exhibited by each group to identify the potential beneficiary groups.

Results: The PN group outperformed the FW group in terms of maximal power output per training session (822.5 ± 55.22 vs. 927.42 ± 48.15, conventional vs. pneumatic, p < 0.001, effect size = −2.02). After 6 weeks of training, the FW group showed significant increases in vertical jump height and relative strength (CMJ, SJ, DJ), with no significant gains observed in T-30 and maximal strength. The PN group showed significant improvements in maximal strength; however, no significant improvements were observed in the other tests. In addition, there was no significant difference in DJ-RSI between the two groups before and after training.

Discussion: At 70% weight bearing, free weight resistance appears to be more conducive to vertical jump growth, while pneumatic resistance appears to be more conducive to maximal strength gains; however, the maximal strength gains from pneumatic resistance may not be well applied to athletic performance. In addition, the body adapts more quickly to pneumatic resistance than to free weight resistance.
Recombinant irisin prevents cell death and mineralization defects induced by random positioning machine exposure in primary cultures of human osteoblasts: A promising strategy for the osteoporosis treatment
Authors: Cariati Ida , Bonanni Roberto , Rinaldi Anna Maria , Marini Mario , Iundusi Riccardo , Gasbarra Elena , Tancredi Virginia , Tarantino Umberto
Published: March 2023

Spaceflight exposure, like prolonged skeletal unloading, is known to result in significant bone loss, but the molecular mechanisms responsible are still partly unknown. This impairment, characterizing both conditions, suggests the possibility of identifying common signalling pathways and developing innovative treatment strategies to counteract the bone loss typical of astronauts and osteoporotic patients. In this context, primary cell cultures of human osteoblasts derived from healthy subjects and osteoporotic patients were exposed to random positioning machine (RPM) to reproduce the absence of gravity and to exacerbate the pathological condition, respectively. The duration of exposure to RPM was 3 or 6 days, with the aim of determining whether a single administration of recombinant irisin (r-irisin) could prevent cell death and mineralizing capacity loss. In detail, cellular responses were assessed both in terms of death/survival, by MTS assay, analysis of oxidative stress and caspase activity, as well as the expression of survival and cell death proteins, and in terms of mineralizing capacity, by investigating the pentraxin 3 (PTX3) expression. Our results suggest that the effects of a single dose of r-irisin are maintained for a limited time, as demonstrated by complete protection after 3 days of RPM exposure and only partial protection when RPM exposure was for a longer time. Therefore, the use of r-irisin could be a valid strategy to counteract the bone mass loss induced by weightlessness and osteoporosis. Further studies are needed to determine an optimal treatment strategy based on the use of r-irisin that is fully protective even over very long periods of exposure and/or to identify further approaches to be used in a complementary manner.
Muscle innervation zone estimation from monopolar high-density M-waves using principal component analysis and radon transform
Authors: Huang Chengjun , Lu Zhiyuan , Chen Maoqi , Klein Cliff S. , Zhang Yingchun , Li Sheng , Zhou Ping
Published: March 2023

This study examined methods for estimating the innervation zone (IZ) of a muscle using recorded monopolar high density M waves. Two IZ estimation methods based on principal component analysis (PCA) and Radon transform (RT) were examined. Experimental M waves, acquired from the biceps brachii muscles of nine healthy subjects were used as testing data sets. The performance of the two methods was evaluated by comparing their IZ estimations with manual IZ detection by experienced human operators. Compared with manual detection, the agreement rate of the estimated IZs was 83% and 63% for PCA and RT based methods, respectively, both using monopolar high density M waves. In contrast, the agreement rate was 56% for cross correlation analysis using bipolar high density M waves. The mean difference in estimated IZ location between manual detection and the tested method was 0.12 ± 0.28 inter-electrode-distance (IED) for PCA, 0.33 ± 0.41 IED for RT and 0.39 ± 0.74 IED for cross correlation-based methods. The results indicate that the PCA based method was able to automatically detect muscle IZs from monopolar M waves. Thus, PCA provides an alternative approach to estimate IZ location of voluntary or electrically-evoked muscle contractions, and may have particular value for IZ detection in patients with impaired voluntary muscle activation.
Exogenous abscisic acid and sodium nitroprusside regulate flavonoid biosynthesis and photosynthesis of Nitraria tangutorum Bobr in alkali stress
Authors: Zhang Jie , Cheng Kai , Liu Xinyue , Dai Zhichao , Zheng Lingling , Wang Yingchun
Published: March 2023

Abscisic acid (ABA) and nitric oxide (NO) are involved in mediating abiotic stress-induced plant physiological responses. Nitraria tangutorum Bobr is a typical salinized desert plant growing in an arid environment. In this study, we investigated the effects of ABA and NO on N.tangutorum seedlings under alkaline stress. Alkali stress treatment caused cell membrane damage, increased electrolyte leakage, and induced higher production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which caused growth inhibition and oxidative stress in N.tangutorum seedlings. Exogenous application of ABA (15μm) and Sodium nitroprusside (50μm) significantly increased the plant height, fresh weight, relative water content, and degree of succulency in N.tangutorum seedlings under alkali stress. Meanwhile, the contents of ABA and NO in plant leaves were significantly increased. ABA and SNP can promote stomatal closure, decrease the water loss rate, increase leaf surface temperature and the contents of osmotic regulator proline, soluble protein, and betaine under alkali stress. Meanwhile, SNP more significantly promoted the accumulation of chlorophyll a/b and carotenoids, increased quantum yield of photosystem II (φPSII) and electron transport rate (ETRII) than ABA, and decreased photochemical quenching (qP), which improved photosynthetic efficiency and accelerated the accumulation of soluble sugar, glucose, fructose, sucrose, starch, and total sugar. However, compared with exogenous application of SNP in the alkaline stress, ABA significantly promoted the transcription of NtFLS/NtF3H/NtF3H/NtANR genes and the accumulation of naringin, quercetin, isorhamnetin, kaempferol, and catechin in the synthesis pathway of flavonoid metabolites, and isorhamnetin content was the highest. These results indicate that both ABA and SNP can reduce the growth inhibition and physiological damage caused by alkali stress. Among them, SNP has a better effect on the improvement of photosynthetic efficiency and the regulation of carbohydrate accumulation than ABA, while ABA has a more significant effect on the regulation of flavonoid and anthocyanin secondary metabolite accumulation. Exogenous application of ABA and SNP also improved the antioxidant capacity and the ability to maintain Na+/K+ balance of N. tangutorum seedlings under alkali stress. These results demonstrate the beneficial effects of ABA and NO as stress hormones and signaling molecules that positively regulate the defensive response of N. tangutorum to alkaline stress.
Changes and net ecosystem productivity of terrestrial ecosystems and their influencing factors in China from 2000 to 2019
Authors: Huang Yutao , Wang Fang , Zhang Lijuan , Zhao Junfang , Zheng Hong , Zhang Fan , Wang Nan , Gu Jiakai , Zhao Yufeng , Zhang Wenshuai
Published: March 2023

Changes in net ecosystem productivity (NEP) in terrestrial ecosystems in response to climate warming and land cover changes have been of great concern. In this study, we applied the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), average temperature, and sunshine hours to drive the C-FIX model and to simulate the regional NEP in China from 2000 to 2019. We also analyzed the spatial patterns and the spatiotemporal variation characteristics of the NEP of terrestrial ecosystems and discussed their main influencing factors. The results showed that (1) the annual average NEP of terrestrial ecosystems in China from 2000 to 2019 was 1.08 PgC, exhibiting a highly significant increasing trend with a rate of change of 0.83 PgC/10 y. The terrestrial ecosystems in China remained as carbon sinks from 2000 to 2019, and the carbon sink capacity increased significantly. The NEP of the terrestrial ecosystem increased by 65% during 2015–2019 compared to 2000–2004 (2) There was spatial differences in the NEP distribution of the terrestrial ecosystems in China from 2000–2019. Taking the line along the Daxinganling-Yin Mountains-Helan Mountains-Transverse Range as the boundary, the NEP was significantly higher in the eastern part than in the western part. Among them, the NEP was positive (carbon sink) in northeastern, central, and southern China, and negative (carbon source) in parts of northwestern China and the Tibet Autonomous Region. The spatial variation of NEP in terrestrial ecosystems increased from 2000 to 2009. The areas with a significant increase accounted for 45.85% and were mainly located in the central and southwestern regions. (3) The simulation results revealed that vegetation changes and CO2 concentration changes both contributed to the increase in the NEP in China, contributing 85.96% and 36.84%, respectively. The vegetation changes were the main factor causing the increase in the NEP. The main contribution of this study is to further quantify the NEP of terrestrial ecosystems in China and identify the influencing factors that caused these changes.
In-season assessment of agronomic nitrogen use efficiency and its components in winter wheat using critical nitrogen dilution curve
Authors: Li Bing , Ma Xiaodong , Zhao Ben , Wang Laigang , Ata-Ul-Karim Syed Tahir
Published: March 2023

Accurate and timely nitrogen (N) scheduling requires knowledge of in-season crop N deficit. Therefore, understanding the association between crop growth and crop N demand during its growth period is imperative for fine-tuning N scheduling decisions to actual crop N demand and to enhance N use efficiency. The concept of the critical N dilution curve has been employed to assess and quantify the intensity and time of crop N deficit. However, research regarding the association between crop N deficit and N use efficiency in wheat is limited. The present study was carried out to determine whether there are relationships between the accumulated nitrogen deficit (Nand) and agronomic N use efficiency (AEN) as well as with its components (N fertilizer recovery efficiency (REN) and N fertilizer physiological efficiency (PEN)) of winter wheat and to explore the potential capacity of Nandfor predicting AENand its components. Data acquired from five variable N rates (0, 75, 150, 225, and 300 kg ha−1) field experiments using six winter wheat cultivars were used to establish and validate the relationships between Nandand AEN, REN, and PEN. The results indicated that plant N concentration in winter wheat was significantly affected by N application rates. Nandvaried from −65.73 to 104.37 kg ha−1after Feekes stage 6 under different N application rates. The AENand its components were also affected by cultivars, N levels, seasons, and growth stages. A positive correlation was observed between Nand, AEN, and its components. Validation using an independent data set showed the robustness of the newly developed empirical models to accurately predict AEN, REN,and PENwith an RMSE of 3.43 kg kg−1, 4.22%, and 3.67 kg kg−1and RRMSE of 17.53%, 12.46%, and 13.17%, respectively. This indicates that Nandhas the potential to predict AENand its components during the growth period of winter wheat. The findings will assist in improving in-season N use efficiency by fine-tuning N scheduling decisions in winter wheat cultivation.
The role of early intergroup experiences for identification with all humanity in adulthood
Authors: Hamer Katarzyna , McFarland Sam
Published: March 2023

Identification with all humanity (IWAH), defined as a bond with and concern for people all over the world, predicts concern for global problems, commitment to human rights, and prosocial activities. However, it is still unknown how such a broad social identification develops and if early experiences play any role. Two studies explored the role of diverse childhood and adolescence intergroup experiences in predicting IWAH in adulthood. We focused on experiences such as being raised in diversity and having intergroup friends, helping or being helped by various others, and having experiences leading to re- or de-categorization, and introduced a new Childhood/Adolescent Intergroup Experiences (CAIE) scale. Study 1 (N = 313 U.S. students, Mage = 21) and Study 2 (N = 1,000, a representative Polish sample, Mage = 47) found that this kind of intergroup experiences during childhood and adolescence predicted IWAH beyond the effects of its other known predictors, such as empathy, openness to experience, universalism, right-wing authoritarianism, social dominance orientation or ethnocentrism. These results, obtained on various samples and in countries with different ethno-cultural contexts, point to potential ways of enlarging IWAH during childhood and adolescence.
How sustainable marketing influences the customer engagement and sustainable purchase intention? The moderating role of corporate social responsibility
Authors: Gong Yanping , Xiao Jun , Tang Xiuyuan , Li Jinglu
Published: March 2023

Today’s civilization faces serious challenges related to sustainability. Without the support of society, organizations can no longer continually build their enterprises. The pressure of sustainable development goals are also enhancing on companies. Thus, marketing managers place a strong emphasis on meeting the socio-ethical demands of their target audience, whether it is through cultural promotion, environmental conservation, or disaster relief initiatives. This study explores how sustainable marketing influences the customer engagement and sustainable purchase intention. For data collection, a self-administered questionnaire was distributed to 393 purchasers and potential purchasers of electric vehicles, and a structural equation model (SEM) test was conducted using Mplus 8.0 software. The results of the study showed that: First, the outcome states that sustainable marketing valuable for improving brand image. Second, brand image is good for customer engagement in the Chinese market for electric automobiles. Third, the appeal of sustainable purchasing intentions is increased by brand image. Fourth, a useful instrument for long-term purchase intentions is customer engagement. Fifth, CSR has a significant role in enhancing consumers’ intentions to make sustainable purchases. Most notably, it acts as a helpful moderator in the relationship between company image and customer engagement. Lastly, CSR also strengthens the link between company image and sustainable purchasing intentions. This research offers a theoretical framework and practical implications that sustainable marketing initiatives are an important antecedent of organizational outcomes for the electric vehicle sector in China.
The interdisciplinary implementation of poly-universe to promote computational thinking: Teaching examples from biological, physical, and digital education in Austrian secondary schools
Authors: Schmidthaler Eva , Schalk Maritta , Schmollmüller Mathias , Hinterplattner Sara , Hörmann Corinna , Anđić Branko , Rottenhofer Marina , Lavicza Zsolt , Sabitzer Barbara
Published: March 2023

Today’s teaching and didactical methods are progressively aiming to integrate digital technologies, computational thinking (CT), and basic computer science concepts into other subjects. An innovative and creative way of combining and integrating CT and teaching cross-curricular skills without digital devices is to include the game Poly-Universe (PolyUni). According to previous research, the game is expected to have a positive effect on visual perceptual progress, including isolation, and the development of shape-background skills. So far, however, comparatively few attempts have been made to explore the educational possibilities of PolyUni for different school levels and subjects, besides mathematics. Therefore, this article aims to close this gap by exploring how PolyUni can be used to promote CT in three subjects: physical education (PE), digital education (DGE), and biology (B). Furthermore, it evaluates whether the pre-defined learning objectives in those subjects have been achieved, and examines how PolyUni combines the requirements of the different curricula in Austrian secondary school, based on self-designed tasks. Additionally, further aspects of PolyUni such as engagement and collaboration are discussed. To explore the above-mentioned benefits, a mixed-methods study was implemented, whereas the workshops and accompanying teaching materials (e.g., worksheets) were developed based on the COOL Informatics concept. The participant observation method was employed for qualitative data collection, and a self-designed assessment grid as well as additional picture analysis were used for the quantitative data. PolyUni was introduced in three different workshops at Austrian secondary schools with 80 students observed and analyzed. Based on the present data, it can be assumed that PolyUni supports achieving the requirements of the different curricula and pre-defined teaching and learning objectives in a playful way. Furthermore, the game not only promotes CT in secondary school but also encourages enjoyment and collaboration between peers in biological, digital, and physical education lessons.
Simulating developmental diversity: Impact of neural stochasticity on atypical flexibility and hierarchy
Authors: Soda Takafumi , Ahmadi Ahmadreza , Tani Jun , Honda Manabu , Hanakawa Takashi , Yamashita Yuichi
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Investigating the pathological mechanisms of developmental disorders is a challenge because the symptoms are a result of complex and dynamic factors such as neural networks, cognitive behavior, environment, and developmental learning. Recently, computational methods have started to provide a unified framework for understanding developmental disorders, enabling us to describe the interactions among those multiple factors underlying symptoms. However, this approach is still limited because most studies to date have focused on cross-sectional task performance and lacked the perspectives of developmental learning. Here, we proposed a new research method for understanding the mechanisms of the acquisition and its failures in hierarchical Bayesian representations using a state-of-the-art computational model, referred to as in silico neurodevelopment framework for atypical representation learning.

Methods

Simple simulation experiments were conducted using the proposed framework to examine whether manipulating the neural stochasticity and noise levels in external environments during the learning process can lead to the altered acquisition of hierarchical Bayesian representation and reduced flexibility.

Results

Networks with normal neural stochasticity acquired hierarchical representations that reflected the underlying probabilistic structures in the environment, including higher-order representation, and exhibited good behavioral and cognitive flexibility. When the neural stochasticity was high during learning, top-down generation using higher-order representation became atypical, although the flexibility did not differ from that of the normal stochasticity settings. However, when the neural stochasticity was low in the learning process, the networks demonstrated reduced flexibility and altered hierarchical representation. Notably, this altered acquisition of higher-order representation and flexibility was ameliorated by increasing the level of noises in external stimuli.

Discussion

These results demonstrated that the proposed method assists in modeling developmental disorders by bridging between multiple factors, such as the inherent characteristics of neural dynamics, acquisitions of hierarchical representation, flexible behavior, and external environment.
The sexual behavior of young people living with a disability: Findings from the KAP study in Northern Uganda
Authors: Bukuluki Paul , Wandiembe Symon Peter , Kisaakye Peter , Kiwujja Victor , Kajungu Christine , Mugwanya Wilberforce , Nabakooza Shakira , Anyii Cyprian
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Young people living with disability form one of the most vulnerable population groups globally. There is limited information on the use of SRH services among young people living with a disability.

Methods

This analysis is based on household survey data among young people. Drawing on a sample of 861 young people living with a disability (15 -24 years), we investigate the sexual behaviour, and identify the risk factors associated with sexual behavior of young people living with a disability. Multilevel logistic regression was used.

Results

Results indicate that risky sexual behaviour was associated with alcohol consumption (aOR = 1.68; 95%CI: 0.97, 3.01), having limited knowledge of HIV and STI prevention methods (aOR = 6.03; 95%CI: 0.99, 30.00), and low life skills (aOR = 4.23; 95%CI: 1.59, 12.87). The odds of not using a condom at last sex were significantly higher among in-school young people than out of school young people (aOR = 0.34; 95%CI: 0.12, 0.99).

Discussion

Targeted interventions aimed at reaching out to young people living with a disability should consider their sexual and reproductive health needs, barriers, and facilitators. Interventions can also promote self-efficacy and agency of young people living with a disability in making informed sexual and reproductive health choices.
Advancing water justice through a tribally-driven partnership: Designing sustainable rainwater harvesting systems in the Yukon–Kuskokwim delta of Alaska
Authors: Pool Thomas , Williams Mike , McDonald Claire , Loderhose Patrick , Velasco Jocine , Lefthand-Begay Clarita
Published: March 2023

Community driven co-design models can help collaborators to respectfully engage in projects that provide much-needed resources and services to underserved communities. For example, partnerships between tribal, academic, and non-profit collaborators have the potential to generate positive outcomes for communities when individual efforts by those same groups may be less successful. However, cultural and spiritual differences between collaborators (particularly tribal and non-tribal) can lead to misunderstandings and negative project outcomes, despite good intentions and an honest effort by collaborators to achieve a common goal. Here, we provide a case study of a community-driven co-design project involving tribal, academic, and private collaborators to design and build a rainwater harvesting system with the Akiak Native Community (ANC), and their tribal council in Alaska, USA. A novel collaborative co-design process honoring the tribal sovereignty of the ANC is emphasized in this case study; a design model that is poorly represented in the literature with real-world examples. Logistics associated with designing and constructing the community-use rainwater harvesting system on Alaskan tribal lands is reviewed but the focus of this work is on the collaborative design process more so than the construction of the water harvesting system end product. More explicitly, the use of multiple approaches to promote collaborator involvement along with an emphasis on developing community driven project goals are highlighted as essential steps in our co-design process.
A clinical study of liposuction followed by lymphovenous anastomosis for treatment of breast cancer-related lymphedema
Authors: Chang Kun , Xia Song , Liang Chen , Sun Yuguang , Xin Jianfeng , Shen Wenbin
Published: March 2023

Objective

In this work, we studied the clinical effect of liposuction followed by lymphovenous anastomosis (LVAs) for the treatment of breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL).

Methods

We analyzed 158 patients with unilateral upper limb BCRL who underwent liposuction followed by LVAs 2–4 months later. Arm circumferences before and 7 days after the combined treatments were prospectively recorded. Circumferences of different upper extremities were measured before the procedure, 7 days after LVAs, and during the follow-ups. Volumes were calculated with the frustum method. During the follow-ups, the conditions of patients’ treated arms, i.e., the frequency of erysipelas episodes and dependence on compression garments, were recorded.

Results

The mean circumference difference between two upper limbs decreased significantly from M (P25, P75) of 5.3 (4.1, 6.9) preoperatively to 0.5 (−0.8, 1.0) (P < 0.05) 7 days after treatments, while at follow-up 0.3 (−0.4, 1.0). The mean volume difference decreased significantly from M (P25, P75) of 838.3 (662.4, 1,129.0) preoperatively to 7.8 (−120.3, 151.4) (P < 0.05) 7 days after treatments, while at follow-up 43.7 (−59.4, 161.1). The incidence of erysipelas also significantly decreased (P < 0.05). 6.3% of patients were already independent of compression garments during the past six months or even more.

Conclusion

Liposuction followed by LVAs is an effective method for the treatment of BCRL.
Comparison of perioperative outcomes of robotic vs. laparoscopic partial nephrectomy for renal tumors with a RENAL nephrometry score ≥7: A meta-analysis
Authors: Jiang Yu-Li , Yu Dong-dong , Xu Yang , Zhang Ming-Hua , Peng Fu-Sheng , Li Peng
Published: March 2023

Introduction

To compare the perioperative outcomes of robotic partial nephrectomy (RPN) vs. laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN) for complex renal tumors with a RENAL nephrometry score ≥7.

Methods

We searched PubMed, EMBASE and the Cochrane Central Register for studies from 2000 to 2020 to evaluate the perioperative outcomes of RPN and LPN in patients with a RENAL nephrometry score ≥7. We used RevMan 5.2 to pool the data.

Results

Seven studies were acquired in our study. No significant differences were found in the estimated blood loss (WMD: 34.49; 95% CI: −75.16–144.14; p = 0.54), hospital stay (WMD: −0.59; 95% CI: −1.24–0.06; p = 0.07), positive surgical margin (OR: 0.85; 95% CI: 0.65–1.11; p = 0.23), major postoperative complications (OR: 0.90; 95% CI: 0.52–1.54; p = 0.69) and transfusion (OR: 0.72; 95% CI: 0.48–1.08; p = 0.11) between the groups. RPN showed better outcomes in the operating time (WMD: −22.45; 95% CI: −35.06 to −9.85; p = 0.0005), postoperative renal function (WMD: 3.32; 95% CI: 0.73–5.91; p = 0.01), warm ischemia time (WMD: −6.96; 95% CI: −7.30–−6.62; p < 0.0001), conversion rate to radical nephrectomy (OR: 0.34; 95% CI: 0.17 to 0.66; p = 0.002) and intraoperative complications (OR: 0.52; 95% CI: 0.28–0.97; p = 0.04).

Discussion

RPN is a safe and effective alternative to LPNs for or the treatment of complex renal tumors with a RENAL nephrometry score ≥7 with a shorter warm ischemic time and better postoperative renal function.
Detection of antibiotic-resistant canine origin Escherichia coli and the synergistic effect of magnolol in reducing the resistance of multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli
Authors: Tong Yin-Chao , Zhang Yi-Ning , Li Peng-Cheng , Cao Ya-Li , Ding Dong-Zhao , Yang Yang , Lin Qing-Yi , Gao Yi-Nuo , Sun Shao-Qiang , Fan Yun-Peng , Liu Ying-Qiu , Qing Su-Zhu , Ma Wu-Ren , Zhang Wei-Min
Published: March 2023

Background

The development of antimicrobial resistance in the opportunistic pathogen Escherichia coli has become a global public health concern. Due to daily close contact, dogs kept as pets share the same E. coli with their owners. Therefore, the detection of antimicrobial resistance in canine E. coli is important, as the results could provide guidance for the future use of antibiotics. This study aimed to detect the prevalence of antibiotic-resistance of canine origin E. coli in Shaanxi province and to explore the inhibition effect of magnolol combined with cefquinome on MDR E. coli, so as to provide evidence for the use of antibiotics.

Methods

Canine fecal samples were collected from animal hospitals. The E. coli isolates were separated and purified using various indicator media and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Drug-resistance genes [aacC2, ant(3')-I, aph(3')-II, aac(6')-Ib-cr, aac(3')-IIe, blaKPC, blaIMP−4, blaOXA, blaCMY, blaTEM−1, blaSHV, blaCTX−M−1, blaCTX−M−9, Qnra, Qnrb, Qnrs, TetA, TetB, TetM, Ermb] were also detected by PCR. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined for 10 antibiotics using the broth-microdilution method. Synergistic activity of magnolol and cefquinome against multidrug-resistant (MDR) E. coli strains was investigated using checkerboard assays, time-kill curves, and drug-resistance curves.

Results

A total of 101 E. coli strains were isolated from 158 fecal samples collected from animal hospitals. MIC determinations showed that 75.25% (76/101) of the E. coli strains were MDR. A total of 22 drug-resistance genes were detected among the 101 strains. The blaTEM−1gene exhibited the highest detection rate (89.77%). The TetA and Sul gene also exhibited high detection rate (66.34 and 53.47%, respectively). Carbapenem-resistant E. coli strains were found in Shangluo and Yan'an. Additionally, in MDR E. coli initially resistant to cefquinome, magnolol increased the susceptibility to cefquinome, with an FICI (Fractional Inhibitory Concentration Index) between 0.125 and 0.5, indicating stable synergy. Furthermore, magnolol enhanced the killing effect of cefquinome against MDR E. coli. Resistance of MDR E. coli to cefquinome decreased markedly after treatment with magnolol for 15 generations.

Conclusion

Our study indicates that antibiotic-resistance E. coli has been found in domestic dogs. After treatment with magnolol extracted from the Chinese herb Houpo (Magnolia officinalis), the sensitivity of MDR E. coli to cefquinome was enhanced, indicating that magnolol reverses the resistance of MDR E. coli. The results of this study thus provide reference for the control of E. coli resistance.
New insights into the treatment of meningoencephalomyelitis of unknown origin since 2009: A review of 671 cases
Authors: Jeffery Nick , Granger Nicolas
Published: March 2023

“Meningoencephalomyelitis of unknown origin” (MUO)—a collective term for a group of clinically-indistinguishable (but pathologically distinct) autoimmune diseases of the CNS—has become increasingly commonly recognized throughout the world. In the 1960s−1980s the focus was primarily on the pathological description of these conditions and, largely anecdotally, their response to glucocorticoids. The subsequent availability of magnetic resonance imaging for companion animals led to a focus on imaging characteristics and response of MUO to various immunosuppressive medications. Previous reviews have not found clear evidence of superiority of any specific treatment regimen. Here, we review outcomes in a further 671 dogs treated with various combinations of glucocorticoids and immunosuppressive drugs and reported since 2009, aiming to determine whether recommendations can be drawn from the material published during more recent decades. We observe that: (i) there is more complete information on outcome of MUO-affected dogs solely receiving glucocorticoids and these reports provide evidence to undermine the dogma that MUO inevitably requires treatment with glucocorticoidsplusan immunosuppressive drug; (ii) there is far more information on the pharmacokinetics of cytarabine delivered by a variety of routes, revealing that previous dosing and duration of administration in dogs with MUO may not have been optimal; and, (iii) there is a large number of cases that could be available for entry into multi-institutional randomized controlled trials. Finally, we suggest new research avenues that might aid future clinical trials in MUO through improved understanding of etiological triggers and individual patterns of immune response, such as the impact of the gut microbiome, the potential of CSF flow cytometry, and the establishment of robust clinical scores for evaluation of treatment success.
Workplace Spirituality as an Alternative Model for Promoting Commitment to Change and Change-Oriented Organisational Citizenship Behaviour
Authors: Sulastini  , Wijayanti Tri Cicik , Rajiani Ismi
Published: March 2023

Considering that the relationship between workplace spirituality and organisational change has only recently sparked scholarly interest, the connection could be more evident, as research has only recently begun. Furthermore, there is a growing tendency to add spirituality as the fourth dimension to sustainability in addition to the environment, social responsibility, and the economy. This study contributes to the academic literature by examining the influence of workplace spirituality on lecturers’ responses to change in their commitment to change and change-oriented organizational citizenship behaviour (C-OCB). Private universities in Banjarmasin, Indonesia, were selected to research these links. To collect data from 1050 instructors, self-administered questionnaires were used, and structural equation modelling (SEM) was performed. The findings demonstrated that the workplace spirituality level, exemplified by a solid connection to a higher power, humanity, and nature, affects the lecturers’ commitment to change leading to change-oriented organizational citizenship behaviour (C-OCB), a dimension of OCB less researched. The findings offer a novel perspective on the relationship between workplace spirituality, lecturers’ attitudes towards change, and change-oriented organizational citizenship behaviour (C-OCB) in higher education. Since this result has not been examined in the context of change in higher education, several consequences and suggestions for future research emerge. More studies could be used in future research, given that the literature in this area is still in its early stages. The current work is expected to spark future research on this intriguing and fertile issue.
Research on the Time-Dependent Vehicle Routing Problem for Fresh Agricultural Products Based on Customer Value
Authors: Wu Daqing , Li Jiyu , Cui Jiye , Hu Dong
Published: March 2023

With continuous improvements in people’s consumption levels, consumers’ demands for safe and fresh agricultural products increase. The increase in the number of vehicles and serious congestion on roads has led to problems, such as the weak timeliness of urban cold chain logistics, high carbon emissions, low customer value and reduced customer satisfaction. In this study, carbon emissions, customer satisfaction, customer value and cost are considered, and an optimization algorithm is established to solve the time-dependent vehicle routing problem in urban cold chain logistics. For road congestion at different time periods during the cold chain distribution process, the segment function is used to express the vehicle speed. According to the characteristics of the model, considering the constraints of the time window and vehicle capacity, an improved NSGA-II algorithm with the local optimization characteristics of the greedy algorithm (G-NSGA-II) is proposed, and the sorting fitness strategy is optimized. In addition, we carry out a series of experiments on existing vehicle routing problem examples and analyze them in a real background to evaluate and prove the effectiveness of the proposed model and algorithm. The experiment results show that the proposed approach effectively reduces the total cost, enhances customer value and promotes the long-term development of logistics companies.
Study on Spatiotemporal Changes of Rural Vulnerability in China’s Southwest Mountainous Provinces from 2000 to 2020 Based on Remote Sensing Image Interpretation: A Case in Yunnan Province
Authors: Yang Shiqin , Yang Zisheng , Yang Renyi
Published: March 2023

The three dimensions of ecological, economic, and social vulnerability in the mountainous countryside are caused by the fragility of the natural ecosystems of the mountains, which overlap with the geographical location of the countryside and are associated with farm production and low productivity. This study conducts a vulnerability evaluation of mountainous rural areas based on the fundamentals of ecological vulnerability in mountainous regions by combining “RS and GIS + multistage land use/land cover change (LUCC) + rural vulnerability evaluation theory and quantitative and practical techniques”. The goal of this project is to establish a comprehensive evaluation system that takes into account the various vulnerability levels in rural areas. It is based on the results of the three phases (2000, 2010, and 2020) of land use/land cover remote sensing images of Yunnan Province. The Delphi approach was used to determine the indicator weights. In order to quantitatively assess the rural vulnerability of 129 counties in Yunnan Province in 2000, 2010, and 2020, as well as to reveal the spatiotemporal characteristics of the rural vulnerability of the entire province in each county from 2000 to 2020, the qualitative comprehensive analysis method and the quantitative multi-index comprehensive evaluation method were organically combined. This paper’s objective is to offer a basis for the strategic planning and management of sustainable rural development and revitalization in mountainous provinces. The findings demonstrate that the ecological, economic, and social vulnerability levels all dramatically decreased over the previous two decades in rural Yunnan Province and its counties. The overall vulnerability of rural areas has been somewhat diminished, with an average annual decline of 1.17% over the past 20 years in the whole province. This demonstrates how the construction and development of rural areas over the past two decades have significantly decreased the overall vulnerability of rural areas. There are, nevertheless, substantial geographical variations. At present, the levels of ecological, economic, social, and overall vulnerability in rural areas of Yunnan Province are high.
Effects of Tillage Systems on the Physical Properties of Soils in a Semi-Arid Region of Morocco
Authors: El Mekkaoui Abdelali , Moussadek Rachid , Mrabet Rachid , Douaik Ahmed , El Haddadi Rachid , Bouhlal Outmane , Elomari Mariyam , Ganoudi Matike , Zouahri Abdelmjid , Chakiri Said
Published: March 2023

Climate change, drought, erosion, water contamination resources, desertification, and loss of soil quality represent major environmental risks worldwide. Facing these risks is the most important issue for sustainable development. Conventional tillage (CT) practices seem to expose the soils of semi-arid regions, which are initially fragile, to degradation that is accentuated by the overuse of the environment. The benefits of conservation agriculture (CA) could mitigate the degradation of natural resources, particularly soils. The adaptation and transfer of the no-till (NT) system with mulch open new perspectives for the development of agriculture in semi-arid regions. The main objective of this study is to assess the impact of conservation agriculture, especially no-till (NT) system, on the physical properties of soil (structural stability (SS), bulk density (BD), gravimetric water content (θg), and soil organic matter (SOM)) compared to conventional tillage (CT). The main changes associated with the transition from a CT system to an NT system were evaluated at the experimental site, Merchouch (M13), which is typified by vertisol soil, and at the Ain Sbit (AS7) site, which is characterized by isohumic soil. Under a no-till system, most of the physical properties of the soil were improved in both sites, with a clear difference in the M13 site. Structural stability under NT showed a significant increase in both sites (fast wetting (FW), slow wetting (SW), and wet stirring (WS) improved by 88, 43, and 83% at the M13 site, respectively, against, 16, 23, and 7%, respectively, at the AS7 site). On the other hand, the SOM increased from 2.0 to 2.6% (an improvement of 28%) at AS7 and from 1.2% to 1.9% (an improvement of 52%) at M13. This research demonstrated that conservation agriculture, especially NT, improves the soil physical quality in both medium and long terms, confirming its suitability for the climatic and edaphic constraints of semi-arid areas in Morocco as well as in other parts of the world.
Using Molecular Dynamic Simulation to Understand the Deformation Mechanism in Cu, Ni, and Equimolar Cu-Ni Polycrystalline Alloys
Authors: Yazdani Sepehr , Vitry Veronique
Published: March 2023

The grain boundaries and dislocations play an important role in understanding the deformation behavior in polycrystalline materials. In this paper, the deformation mechanism of Cu, Ni, and equimolar Cu-Ni alloy was investigated using molecular dynamic simulation. The interaction between dislocations and grain boundary motion during the deformation was monitored using the dislocation extraction algorithm. Moreover, the effect of stacking fault formation and atomic band structure on the deformation behavior was discussed. Results indicate that dislocations nucleate around the grain boundary in copper, the deformation in nickel changes from planar slip bands to wavy bands, and high density of dislocation accumulation as well as numerous kink and jog formations were observed for the equimolar Cu-Ni alloy. The highest density of the Shockley dislocation and stacking faults was formed in the equimolar Cu-Ni alloy which results in the appearance of a huge gliding stage in the stress–strain curve. The grain boundaries act as a sinking source for vacancy annihilation in Ni and Cu; however, this effect was not observed in an equimolar Cu-Ni alloy. Finally, radial distribution function was used to evaluate atom segregation in grain boundaries.
Effect of Selected Micro- and Macroelements and Vitamins on the Genome Stability of Bovine Embryo Transfer Recipients following In Vitro Fertilization
Authors: Wójcik Ewa , Kępka Katarzyna , Skup Mateusz
Published: March 2023

Genome instability can lead to a wide variety of diseases. Many endogenous and exogenous factors influence the level of damage to genetic material. Genome integrity depends on factors such as the fidelity of DNA replication, normal DNA organization in the chromosomes, and repair mechanisms. Genome stability influences fertility, embryonic development, and the maintenance of pregnancy. In the case of in vitro fertilization, it can be an important factor determining the success of the procedure. The aim of the study was to assess the stability of the genomes of recipient cows following in vitro fertilization using cytogenetic tests and to analyze the effects of selected vitamins and micro- and macroelements on genome integrity. Genome stability was analyzed using the sister chromatid exchange, fragile site, and comet assays. The material for analysis was peripheral blood from 20 Holstein-Friesian heifers that were embryo transfer recipients. The effect of selected micro- and macroelements and vitamins on the genome stability of the cows was analyzed. Folic acid was shown to significantly influence the level of damage identified using the SCE, FS, and SCGE assays, while iron affected SCE and SCGE results, and zinc affected FS.
Characteristics and Traceability Analysis of Microbial Assemblage in Fine Particulate Matter from a Pig House
Authors: Wang Miao , Peng Siyi , Liu Dongru , Long Dingbiao , Liu Zuohua , Pu Shihua
Published: March 2023

Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) can carry numerous substances and penetrate deep into the respiratory tract due to its small particle size; associated harmful microorganisms are suspected to increase health risks for humans and animals. To find out the microbial compositions of PM2.5 in piggeries, their interaction and traceability, we collected PM2.5 samples from a piggery while continuously monitoring the environmental indicators. We also identified pathogenic bacteria and allergens in the samples using high-throughput sequencing technology. We analyzed the microbial differences of PM2.5 samples at different heights and during different times of day and investigated the microbial dynamics among the PM2.5 samples. To better understand the interaction between microorganisms and environmental factors among different microbial communities, we applied the network analysis method to identify the correlation among various variables. Finally, SourceTracker, a commonly used microbial traceability tool, was used to predict the source of airborne microorganisms in the pig house. We identified 14 potential pathogenic bacteria and 5 allergens from PM2.5 in the pig houses, of which Acinetobacter was the dominant bacterium in all samples (relative abundance > 1%), which warrants attention. We found that bacteria and fungi directly affected the the microbial community. The bacterial community mainly played a positive role in the microbial community. Environmental variables mainly indirectly and positively affected microbial abundance. In the SourceTracker analysis using fecal matter and feed as sources and PM2.5 sample as sink, we found that fecal matter made the greatest contribution to both bacterial and fungal components of PM2.5. Our findings provide important insights into the potential risks of pathogens in PM2.5 to human and animal health and their main sources.