bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Challenging the Minimum Effective Antipsychotic Dose During Maintenance: Implications From 10-Year Follow-Up of First Episode Psychosis
Authors: Liu Chen-Chung , Liu Chih-Min , Chien Yi-Ling , Lin Yi-Ting , Hsieh Ming H. , Hwang Tzung-Jeng , Hwu Hai-Gwo
Published: September 2021

Background: Contradictory messages regarding the necessity of long-term antipsychotic treatment after first episode psychosis arouse deliberations in clinical practice. We explored if there is an alternative beyond the dichotomy of maintenance treatment and discontinuation of medications.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective observational study by reviewing medical records at the study hospital of a cohort of patients since their participation in an early psychosis study starting from 2006, with special interests in patients able to maintain good functioning under treatment with a low antipsychotic dose.

Results: Of the 81 patients with first-episode psychosis, 55 patients (67.9%) had follow-up information for longer than 5 years. The majority (n = 46, 83.6%) had non-affective psychosis, 20 patients (36.4%) had full-time employment/education by the time of their latest visit; among them, 15 patients received dosage of antipsychotics no more than the minimum effective dose [chlorpromazine equivalent (CPZE) dose, 200 mg/day]. Besides, 10 of 55 patients (18.2%) only received very low dose antipsychotics (CPZE < 50 mg/day) during maintenance, which was significantly correlated to good functioning. Being male, having a history of hospitalization, and being on clozapine therapy were correlated to poorer functioning. Antipsychotic-free status was achieved only in two non-psychotic patients.

Conclusions: A substantial proportion of patients could achieve good functioning under low-dose antipsychotic maintenance after first-episode psychosis, even if they could not completely withdraw antipsychotics in the long term. Optimizing the balance between preventing relapse and preserving functioning by fine-tuning antipsychotic dosage during maintenance is a challenge warranting more clinical attention.
Parental Sensitivity and Responsiveness as Mediators Between Postpartum Mental Health and Bonding in Mothers and Fathers
Authors: Nakić Radoš Sandra
Published: September 2021

Background:There is a lack of studies that examine the complex relationship between parental mental health, parental sensitivity and responsiveness, and parent-infant bonding. This study aimed to test whether parental sensitivity and responsiveness were mediators between postpartum mental health (depression, anxiety, and stress) and parent-infant bonding in mothers and fathers.

Method:Mothers (n= 427) and fathers (n= 170) of infants aged up to 1-year-old participated in an online study. The parents completed questionnaires on depression (Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, EPDS), anxiety and stress (Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale, DASS-21). Parent-infant bonding was measured by Postpartum Bonding Questionnaire (PBQ) that has three components: Impaired bonding (PBQ1), Anxiety about care and parental distress (PBQ2), and Lack of enjoyment and affection with infant (PB3Q). Parental sensitivity was measured as the number of correct recognitions of infant facial expressions (City Infant Faces Database, CIFD). Responsiveness was measured as a self-report with two subscales of responsiveness and non-responsiveness (Maternal Infant Responsiveness Instrument, MIRI).

Results:The path analysis showed that the model had a good fit to the data. Parental sex was a significant moderator, indicating different paths in mothers and fathers. In mothers, responsiveness and non-responsiveness were significant mediators between depression symptoms and three dimensions of bonding. In fathers, only non-responsiveness was a significant mediator between anxiety and PBQ3. Although recognizing infant facial expressions directly affected PBQ3 in mothers (but not in fathers), it was not a significant mediator between mental health and bonding.

Conclusion:Higher levels of parental mental health problems (depression and anxiety) were associated with lower levels of parental responsiveness, which is, in turn, related to poor parent-infant bonding. Prevention and intervention programs should be offered for both mothers and fathers, focusing on postpartum mental health promotion and enhancing responsiveness in infant care.
Association Between Psychological Distress, Cognitive Complaints, and Neuropsychological Status After a Severe COVID-19 Episode: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Gouraud Clément , Bottemanne Hugo , Lahlou-Laforêt Khadija , Blanchard Anne , Günther Sven , Batti Salma El , Auclin Edouard , Limosin Frédéric , Hulot Jean-Sébastien , Lebeaux David , Lemogne Cédric
Published: September 2021

Background: Cognitive complaints are frequent after COVID-19 but their clinical determinants are poorly understood. This study aimed to explore the associations of objective cognitive performances and psychological distress with cognitive complaints in COVID-19 survivors.

Materials and Methods: Patients previously hospitalized for COVID-19 in a university hospital during the first wave of COVID-19 pandemic in France were followed-up at 1 month after their admission. Cognitive complaints were self-reported and standardized instruments were used to assess neuropsychological status (Digit Symbol Substitution Test, Semantic Verbal Fluency Test, Mini Mental Status Examination) and psychological distress (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, HADS). Multivariable analyses were adjusted for age, sex, admission in intensive care unit (ICU) and need for oxygen and C-reactive protein.

Results: One hundred patients (34% women, median age: 60 years [interquartile range: 49–72)] completed the neuropsychological assessment at follow-up. In multivariable analyses, cognitive complaints at 1-month were associated with greater HADS score (OR for one interquartile range: OR: 1.96, 95% CI: 1.08–3.57) and older age (OR: 1.05, 95% CI: 1.01–1.09) and, negatively, with admission in ICU (OR: 0.22, 95% CI: 0.05–0.90). In contrast, none of the objective neuropsychological test scores was significantly associated with cognitive complaints. Exploratory analysis showed that cognitive complaints were associated with both anxiety and depressive symptoms.

Discussion: These preliminary results suggest that cognitive complaints at 1 month after a hospitalization for COVID-19 are associated with psychological distress, independently of objective neuropsychological status. Anxiety and depression symptoms should be systematically screened in patients presenting with cognitive complaints after a severe COVID-19 episode.
Abandon “Race.” Focus on Racism
Authors: Braveman Paula , Parker Dominguez Tyan
Published: September 2021

The concept of “race” emerged in the 1600s with the trans-Atlantic slave trade, justifying slavery; it has been used to justify exploitation, denigration and decimation. Since then, despite contrary scientific evidence, a deeply-rooted belief has taken hold that “race,” indicated by, e.g., skin color or facial features, reflects fundamental biological differences. We propose that the term “race” be abandoned, substituting “ethnic group” while retaining “racism,” with the goal of dismantling it. Despite scientific consensus that “race” is a social construct, in official U.S. classifications, “Hispanic”/”Latino” is an “ethnicity” while African American/Black, American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian/Pacific Islander, and European American/White are “races.” There is no scientific basis for this. Each grouping reflects ancestry in a particular continent/region and shared history, e.g., the genocide and expropriation of Indigenous peoples, African Americans' enslavement, oppression and ongoing disenfranchisement, Latin America's Indigenous roots and colonization. Given migrations over millennia, each group reflects extensive genetic admixture across and within continents/regions. “Ethnicity” evokes social characteristics such as history, language, beliefs, customs. “Race” reinforces notions of inherent biological differences based on physical appearance. While not useful as a biological category, geographic ancestry is a key social category for monitoring and addressing health inequities because of racism's profound influence on health and well-being. We must continue to collect and analyze data on the population groups that have been racialized into socially constructed categories called “races.” We must not, however, continue to use that term; it is not the only obstacle to dismantling racism, but it is a significant one.
Geographical Variation in Physical Fitness Among Chinese Children and Adolescents From 2005 to 2014
Authors: Dong Yanhui , Chen Manman , Song Yi , Ma Jun , Lau Patrick W. C.
Published: September 2021

Introduction: To examine the geographical variation in change in the levels of physical fitness from 2005 to 2014 among Chinese children and adolescents.

Methods: A total of 663,813 children 7 to 18 years of age with physical fitness data in 2005, 2010 and 2014, participated in the study. Physical fitness was assessed using six components, and their standardized scores were aggregated to form a summary physical fitness indicator (PFI).

Results: Over the study period, there was an increase in the proportion of high PFI (from 15.3% in 2005 to 19.0% in 2014, Ptrend < 0.05) and a decrease in the proportion of low PFI (from 30.6 to 29.8%, Ptrend < 0.05). Children and adolescents in the eastern provinces of China showed a high proportion of high PFI with an increasing trend over time, while those in the western provinces had a high proportion of low PFI with a decreasing trend over time (P < 0.05).

Conclusions: The comprehensive physical fitness among Chinese children showed an improved trend from 2005 to 2014. Region-specific interventions with priority policies could be useful to sustainably narrow geographical variation in Chinese children, especially in the western provinces.
Reliable and Interpretable Mortality Prediction With Strong Foresight in COVID-19 Patients: An International Study From China and Germany
Authors: Bai Tao , Zhu Xue , Zhou Xiang , Grathwohl Denise , Yang Pengshuo , Zha Yuguo , Jin Yu , Chong Hui , Yu Qingyang , Isberner Nora , Wang Dongke , Zhang Lei , Kortüm K. Martin , Song Jun , Rasche Leo , Einsele Hermann , Ning Kang , Hou Xiaohua
Published: September 2021

Cohort-independent robust mortality prediction model in patients with COVID-19 infection is not yet established. To build up a reliable, interpretable mortality prediction model with strong foresight, we have performed an international, bi-institutional study from China (Wuhan cohort, collected from January to March) and Germany (Würzburg cohort, collected from March to September). A Random Forest-based machine learning approach was applied to 1,352 patients from the Wuhan cohort, generating a mortality prediction model based on their clinical features. The results showed that five clinical features at admission, including lymphocyte (%), neutrophil count, C-reactive protein, lactate dehydrogenase, and α-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase, could be used for mortality prediction of COVID-19 patients with more than 91% accuracy and 99% AUC. Additionally, the time-series analysis revealed that the predictive model based on these clinical features is very robust over time when patients are in the hospital, indicating the strong association of these five clinical features with the progression of treatment as well. Moreover, for different preexisting diseases, this model also demonstrated high predictive power. Finally, the mortality prediction model has been applied to the independent Würzburg cohort, resulting in high prediction accuracy (with above 90% accuracy and 85% AUC) as well, indicating the robustness of the model in different cohorts. In summary, this study has established the mortality prediction model that allowed early classification of COVID-19 patients, not only at admission but also along the treatment timeline, not only cohort-independent but also highly interpretable. This model represents a valuable tool for triaging and optimizing the resources in COVID-19 patients.
Anabolic Androgenic Steroids Induce Reversible Left Ventricular Hypertrophy and Cardiac Dysfunction. Echocardiography Results of the HAARLEM Study
Authors: Smit Diederik L. , Voogel A. J. , Heijer Martin den , Ronde Willem de
Published: September 2021

Background: The use of anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) is not uncommon among strength athletes. Several cross-sectional studies have linked AAS use to heart disease, but a causal role for AAS is not certain and it is unknown whether cardiac changes are reversible.

Methods: Men of at least 18 years old intending to start an AAS cycle on short notice were included for comprehensive 3D echocardiographic examination before (T0), at the end of the cycle (T1), and 1 year after inclusion (T2) after a recovery period. Details of the AAS cycle performed and the use of other performance and image-enhancing drugs (PIEDs) as well as illicit drug use were recorded. Trend analysis and multivariable regression analysis were performed with mixed effects linear models.

Results: Thirty-one subjects were included. Between start (T0) and end of the cycle (T1), after a median AAS cycle duration of 16 weeks, 3D left ventricular ejection fraction declined with 4.9% (CI −7.2 to −2.5, P < 0.001), E/A-ratio declined with−0.45 (CI −0.69 to −0.21, P < 0.001), and 3D left atrial volume increased with 9.2 ml (CI 2.9–15.4, P = 0.004). Left ventricular mass increased with 28.3 g (CI 14.2–42.4, P < 0.001) and was positively correlated with AAS average weekly dose. After a median recovery time of 8 months (T2), all parameters returned to baseline.

Conclusion: AAS induce left ventricular hypertrophy and impaired systolic and diastolic function in amateur strength athletes. The structural cardiac changes are positively associated with AAS dose and complete recovery occurred after AAS were discontinued.
Sustainable Energy Policies and Equality: Is There a Nexus? Inferences From the Analysis of EU Statistical and Survey Data
Authors: Pellegrini-Masini Giuseppe , Egner Lars Even , Klöckner Christian Andreas , Löfström Erica
Published: September 2021

Energy Justice (EJ) and particularly Energy equality (EE), arguably a radical conceptualization of energy justice, advocated for distributional justice and policies addressing distributional inequalities. Distributional policies are known to be contentious and often raise debates on the opportunity to interfere with the free-market allocation of goods in capitalistic economies. Whether EE inspired policies might be considered implementable or not depends on their social acceptability. Therefore, holding on to previous research findings pointing to the higher acceptability of equitable climate policies and the relationship between economic inequality and environmental degradation, we analyse EU data regarding income and income and wealth inequality and data from the H2020 ECHOES project, which consists of an extensive European survey of household energy consumption attitudes. We found that economic equality accounts for 41% of the variance explained at the country level of our sustainable energy care index (SECI), accounting for sustainable energy attitudes. We conclude that the interplay between economic equality and sustainable energy attitudes deserves further attention and might warrant a broader discussion about distributive policies within and beyond the energy sector.
Virtual Reality for Veteran Relaxation (VR2) – Introducing VR-Therapy for Veterans With Dementia – Challenges and Rewards of the Therapists Behind the Scenes
Authors: Appel Lora , Appel Eva , Kisonas Erika , Pasat Zain , Mozeson Khrystyna , Vemulakonda Jaydev , Sheng Lacey (Qing)
Published: September 2021

Background: Many veterans with dementia placed in long term care exhibit responsive behaviours such as physical and verbal responsiveness (e.g., shouting, hitting, biting, grabbing). Responsive behaviours lead to negative clinical outcomes, staff burnout, contribute to absenteeism, low engagement, and an elevated risk of abuse or neglect. Virtual Reality (VR) has shown great promise in relieving stress and improving quality of life in frail older adults and has been increasingly explored as a non-pharmacological therapy for people with dementia. Ongoing studies are evaluating the clinical outcomes of VR-therapy for this population, but the challenges and learnings of the healthcare providers who administer VR-therapy remain under-reported.

Objective: Capture the experiences of Recreational Therapists (RTs) who conducted study sessions and administered VR-therapy to residents with dementia as part of a clinical trial that took place at the Perley and Rideau Veterans’ Health Centre. We collected: RTs’ feedback on the process of conducting research, specifically with respect to technical, environmental and personal challenges, learnings, and recommendations.

Methods: In-depth interviews were conducted with all seven RTs who administered VR-therapy and collected data for a trial that took place from January-December 2019. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, anonymized, and imported into the NVivo analysis tool, where two independent researchers coded the interviews into themes.

Results: RTs reported ease in learning to use the VR-technology, main challenges were unfamiliarity with, and insufficient time allocated to, conducting research. Scheduled VR-therapy sessions were physically and emotionally easier for the RTs to administer. Despite RTs hesitations to place the VR-equipment on frail individuals in distress, RTs reported positive impacts on managing responsive behaviours during these few targeted sessions, especially for participants for whom the trigger was related to physical pain rather than emotional distress. Staff have continued to offer scheduled VR-therapy sessions beyond the duration of the study.

Conclusion: The experience of using VR in the veteran resident population is generally positive. Areas for improvements including better support to the RTs regarding to novel interventions and research method. Feedback received from RTs in this study provides critical information to support successful, sustainable implementation of VR-therapy, both for further evaluation and as a regular activity program. Failure to consider the experiences of these vital stakeholders when developing novel interventions contributes to the gap between efficacy in research and effectiveness in practice.
The Combination of Artificial Intelligence and Extended Reality: A Systematic Review
Authors: Reiners Dirk , Davahli Mohammad Reza , Karwowski Waldemar , Cruz-Neira Carolina
Published: September 2021

Artificial intelligence (AI) and extended reality (XR) differ in their origin and primary objectives. However, their combination is emerging as a powerful tool for addressing prominent AI and XR challenges and opportunities for cross-development. To investigate the AI-XR combination, we mapped and analyzed published articles through a multi-stage screening strategy. We identified the main applications of the AI-XR combination, including autonomous cars, robotics, military, medical training, cancer diagnosis, entertainment, and gaming applications, advanced visualization methods, smart homes, affective computing, and driver education and training. In addition, we found that the primary motivation for developing the AI-XR applications include 1) training AI, 2) conferring intelligence on XR, and 3) interpreting XR- generated data. Finally, our results highlight the advancements and future perspectives of the AI-XR combination.
What Does Not Kill Can Weaken: How Herbicides Impact Fish In The San Francisco Estuary
Authors: Huynh Khiet , Kurobe Tomofumi , Stillway Marie , Lam Chelsea , Teh Swee
Published: September 2021

Farmers in the San Francisco Estuary have been using increasing amounts of weed killers, also called herbicides, on their farms. Herbicides kill unwanted weeds without hurting food crops. However, did you know that herbicides can hurt fish as well, especially those that live in the Estuary, like delta smelt? Delta smelt are small, translucent fish that only occur in the San Francisco Estuary. In the past, delta smelt could be found everywhere in the Estuary. However, they are currently threatened with extinction, largely due to human activities. In this study, we tested the toxicity of fluridone, a commonly used herbicide found in the San Francisco Estuary, on delta smelt. None of the fish died from fluridone, but we found that it weakened them, even after as little as 6 h of exposure!
Assessing the Circularity of Nutrient Flows Across Nested Scales for Four Food System Scenarios in the Okanagan Bioregion, BC Canada
Authors: Harder Robin , Mullinix Kent , Smukler Sean
Published: September 2021

In light of continued nutrient pollution in water bodies and anticipated insecurities related to future nutrient supplies, there is an increasing awareness of the need to use nutrients in a more circular way. As part of a food system design study in the Okanagan bioregion, BC Canada we set out to evaluate different food system scenarios for the year 2050 in terms of nutrient circularity. In doing so, the objective was to evaluate the circularity of nutrient flows not only in the Okanagan, but also in relation to exogenous regions, insofar as nutrient flows relate to feed and food consumption and production in the Okanagan. This is important because feed and food trade means that nutrient inputs to crop production in the Okanagan may make their way into organic residuals outside the Okanagan, and vice versa. If not accounted for, this may lead to a distorted picture when analyzing nutrient circularity. To this effect, we applied an analytical framework and calculation model that explicitly tracks nutrients from crop production to organic residual generation. The results of the study suggest that assessing nutrient circularity across nested scales was critical for two reasons. First, changes in overall nutrient flows in response to population increase and dietary change were found to be more pronounced outside the Okanagan. Second, our analysis clearly revealed the extent to which feed and food trade boost nutrient self-reliance in the Okanagan at the expense of nutrient self-reliance outside the Okanagan. This kind of analysis should therefore be useful to explore, ideally together with food system and organic residual management actors, how different food system and organic residual management scenarios perform in terms of nutrient circularity, in the geographical area being considered, but also how it impacts nutrient flows and circularity in the places with which feed and food are traded.
A Case Report of the Reconstruction of a Bone Defect Following Resection of a Comminuted Fracture of the Lateral Clavicle Using a Titanium Prosthesis
Authors: Abdalbary Sahar Ahmed , Amr Sherif M. , Abdelghany Khaled , Nssef Amr A. , El-Shaarawy Ehab A. A.
Published: September 2021

Introduction: This case report describes the reconstruction of a severe comminuted fracture and bone defect in the lateral half of the clavicle using a novel titanium prosthesis. This unique prosthesis has been specifically designed and three dimensionally printed for the clavicle, as opposed to the Oklahoma cemented composite prosthesis used in common practice. The aims of this study were to: (1) describe the prosthesis, its stress analysis, and its surgical fixation and (2) to demonstrate the results of the 2-year follow-up of the patient with the lateral clavicle prosthesis.

Patient's Main Concerns: A 20-year-old, right-handed woman complaining of severe pain in the right shoulder was admitted to our hospital following a traffic accident. Physical examination revealed pain, swelling, tenderness, limb weakness, asymmetric posturing, and loss of function in the right shoulder.

Diagnosis, Intervention, and Outcomes: Radiographic evaluation in the emergency room showed complete destruction with a comminuted fracture of the lateral half of the right clavicle and a comminuted fracture of the coracoid. We designed a new prosthesis for the lateral half of the clavicle, which was then tested by finite element analysis and implanted. Use of the new prosthesis was effective in the reconstruction of the comminuted fracture in the lateral half of the clavicle. After 2 years of follow-up, the patient had an aesthetically acceptable curve and was able to perform her activities of daily living. Her pain was relieved, and the disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand score improved. Active range of motion of the shoulder joint and muscle strength were also improved.

Conclusion: This novel prosthesis is recommended for reconstruction of the lateral half of the clavicle following development of bony defects due to fracture. Our patient achieved functional and aesthetic satisfaction with this prosthesis.
Isolation, Genomic Analysis, and Preliminary Application of a Bovine Klebsiella pneumoniae Bacteriophage vB_Kpn_B01
Authors: Luo Zidan , Geng Shangjingchao , Lu Biao , Han Guangli , Wang Yin , Luo Yan , Yang Zexiao , Cao Suizhong , Yao Xueping
Published: September 2021

Klebsiella pneumoniae is an important pathogen that can infect both humans and cattle. The widespread K. pneumoniae and its high drug resistance make it difficult to treat Klebsiella infections/diseases. In this study, a lytic K. pneumoniae bacteriophage vB_Kpn_B01 was isolated from a dairy farm trough in Sichuan Province, and its biological properties were studied, and the entire genome of vB_Kpn_B01 was sequenced. The therapeutic effects of the phage on disease-causing mice were preliminarily tested. Phages found in this study are double-stranded DNA bacterial viruses belonging to the family Siphoviridae, Sugarlandvirus. The results suggest that vB_Kpn_B01 has strong specificity and low adaptability to different adverse conditions. Meanwhile, the predicted gene products of phage vB_Kpn_B01 comprised 149 coding sequences (CDS) and 25 tRNAs, of which 34 CDS had known functions. Of course, vB_Kpn_B01 did not contain any known antibiotic-resistant or virulent genes. The pathological sections of the liver and lungs of mice showed that the inflammatory scores of the treatment group were lower than in the bacterial group. Phage vB_Kpn_B01 alleviated the inflammatory response in the organs of the infected mice, and the organ tissue bacterial load of the treatment group was significantly lower than that of the bacterial group. Therefore, vB_Kpn_B01 can inhibit the proliferation of K. pneumoniae 18 in vivo and can alleviate the inflammation of target organs caused by infectious bacteria, which preliminarily indicates that vB_Kpn_B01 has a certain therapeutic effect on laboratory-infected mice.
Efficacy of a Single Dose of Pregabalin on Signs of Anxiety in Cats During Transportation—A Pilot Study
Authors: Lamminen Terttu , Korpivaara Mira , Suokko Minna , Aspegrén John , Palestrini Clara , Overall Karen
Published: September 2021

Objectives: The aim of this clinical pilot study was to evaluate the dosage, efficacy, and clinical safety of a single oral dose of pregabalin in cats that experience fear and anxiety when placed into a carrier and transported by car.

Methods: Thirteen client-owned cats were enrolled in a blinded, randomized, crossover study with three treatment days approximately 1 week apart. The cats were assigned to receive pregabalin oral solution at dosages of 5 and 10 mg/kg and placebo in a randomized order, one treatment per week. Treatment was administered ~90 min before placing the cat into a carrier and starting transportation. Efficacy was assessed by the owners using a categorical scale and, based on video recordings, by an external observer, both blinded to the treatment.

Results: Owners assessed that cats given pregabalin displayed less vocalization, restlessness, and panting during transportation than did cats given placebo. Correlation between owners' and external observer's assessment of the overall treatment effect was good (0.63, p < 0.01), which confirms the owners' ability to observe reliably their own cat's behavior. Transient mild ataxia was the most common adverse event reported. The human commercial formulation used in this study was found difficult or very difficult to administer by 79% of the owners.

Conclusions and Relevance: Based on results of this pilot study, a single oral dose of pregabalin was well tolerated and decreased signs of anxiety and fear associated with car transportation in cats, as evaluated by blinded owners and external observer. The use of pregabalin prior to traveling may improve cat welfare and compliance for transportation. Further studies are needed to investigate the use of oral pregabalin in cats to alleviate signs of anxiety and fear associated with transportation and sequelae, like veterinary visits, and to develop a more user-friendly formulation.
Executive Selection Process and Job Satisfaction: The Case of the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (IAPR) in Greece
Authors: Apostolakos Dimitris , Metaxas Theodore
Published: September 2021

This paper assesses the impact that the degree of acceptance of the selection process, as conducted by the human recourses management (HRM), has upon job satisfaction in the local tax offices (LTOs) in Greece. Furthermore, it examines the effects that various individual and demographic characteristics have on job satisfaction. The research was performed using primary statistical data by distributing and collecting specific questionnaires, which not only recorded the level of job satisfaction but also noted the degree of acceptance of the selection procedure in the IAPR. The collected statistical data were analyzed using the IBM SPSS Statistics 26 Fixpack 1 software program. The results showed an average acceptance value of the selection process of 4.89, indicating a high degree of participant consensus with this process. They also showed that age, work experience, and the acceptance of the selection process have a positive and statistically significant effect, whereas educational level has a negative and statistically significant effect on degree of job satisfaction. The added value of the present paper lies in the fact that this kind of research, conducted in the IAPR in Greece for the very first time, measured both the degree of job satisfaction and the effect that the acceptance of the selection procedure has on this attitude.
The Contribution of Higher Education Institutions to the SDGs—An Evaluation of Sustainability Reporting Practices
Authors: Caputo Fabio , Ligorio Lorenzo , Pizzi Simone
Published: September 2021

The introduction of Agenda 2030 has impacted the public and private sectors. Agenda 2030 is a document that aims to promote collaboration and partnership between countries and the population for the achievement of 17 SDGs, which cover all the three dimensions of sustainability: environmental, social, and economic. Within the public organizations, higher education institutions (HEIs) have shown certain attention on the topic. In particular, for many HEIs, the publication of sustainability reports has represented an instrument to disclose and publicize their commitment to the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). To shed light on the highly fragmented panorama of the disclosure of SDGs in the context of HEIs, the present study employed a content analysis on publicly available sustainability reports published only by the HEIs that adopted the GRI Standards as reporting guidelines. The results show the centrality of the social and environmental issues within the disclosed information. Moreover, the provision of a thematic analysis on the SDGs disclosure sections revealed the interest of the sampled HEIs in increasing the level of involvement of their stakeholders.
Impact of Foliar Fungicides on Frogeye Leaf Spot Severity, Radiation Use Efficiency and Yield of Soybean in Iowa
Authors: Phillips Xavier A. , Kandel Yuba R. , Mueller Daren S.
Published: September 2021

Frogeye leaf spot, caused by Cercospora sojina K. Hara, is a major soybean (Glycine max L. Merr.) disease that has become more prevalent in the upper Midwest and can be managed with foliar fungicides. Incorporating disease severity into a parameter directly related to yield may better relay the impact of disease on yield and yield components than severity alone. Experiments during the 2018 and 2019 growing seasons in fields located in north central and southwestern Iowa were completed to (i) determine how foliar fungicides affected frogeye leaf spot, remotely sensed plant health indicators, and soybean yield, and (ii) compare the relationship and impact of foliar fungicides and frogeye leaf spot on radiation-use efficiency (RUE) estimated using unmanned aerial vehicle reflectance data. Fungicides affected frogeye severity and yield in one of the three locations; in Lewis 2018, the flutriafol + fluoxastrobin treatment reduced frogeye leaf spot severity by over 50% and increased yield by 19% compared to non-treated controls. Applications of foliar fungicides increased canopy coverage compared to non-treated controls (p = 0.012), but NDVI, SPAD values, and RUE values did not differ between fungicide treatments at all three locations. Estimated soybean RUE values (1.05 to 1.66 g Mj−1) were within the range of known values. Overall, this study indicates that RUE can be a valuable resource to estimate the impact of the disease on yield, however, additional research will be needed to use RUE within certain pathosystems.
Ensifer aridi LMR001T Symbiosis and Tolerance to Stress Do Not Require the Alternative Sigma Factor RpoE2
Authors: Belfquih Meryem , Sakrouhi Ilham , Ait-Benhassou Hassan , Dubois Emeric , Severac Dany , Filali-Maltouf Abdelkarim , Le Quere Antoine
Published: September 2021

The recently proposed species Ensifer aridi represents an interesting model to study adaptive mechanisms explaining its maintenance under stressful pedo-climatic conditions. To get insights into functions associated with hyperosmotic stress adaptation in E. aridi, we first performed RNAseq profiling of cells grown under sub-lethal stresses applied by permeating (NaCl) and non-permeating (PEG8000) solutes that were compared to a transcriptome from unstressed bacteria. Then an a priori approach, consisting of targeted mutagenesis of the gene encoding alternative sigma factor (rpoE2), involved in the General Stress Response combined with phenotyping and promoter gfp fusion-based reporter assays of selected genes was carried out to examine the involvement of rpoE2 in symbiosis and stress response. The majority of motility and chemotaxis genes were repressed by both stresses. Results also suggest accumulation of compatible solute trehalose under stress and other metabolisms such as inositol catabolism or the methionine cycling-generating S-adenosyl methionine appears strongly induced notably under salt stress. Interestingly, many functions regulated by salt were shown to favor competitiveness for nodulation in other rhizobia, supporting a role of stress genes for proper symbiosis’ development and functioning. However, despite activation of the general stress response and identification of several genes possibly under its control, our data suggest that rpoE2 was not essential for stress tolerance and symbiosis’ development, indicating that E. aridi possesses alternative regulatory mechanisms to adapt and respond to stressful environments.
Probiotics and Achyranthes bidentata Polysaccharides Improve Growth Performance via Promoting Intestinal Nutrient Utilization and Enhancing Immune Function of Weaned Pigs
Authors: Hou Gaifeng , Peng Wei , Wei Liangkai , Li Rui , Huang Xingguo , Yin Yulong
Published: September 2021

The experiment aimed to investigate the effects of probiotics and Achyranthes bidentata polysaccharides on the growth performance, nutrients digestibility, and immune function of weaned pigs. One hundred and twenty weaned pigs (about 7 kg BW, 23 ± 2 d) were allotted to five dietary treatments (CON: antibiotics-free basal diet; ANT: CON + antibiotics; PRO: CON + probiotics; ABPS: CON + Achyranthes bidentata polysaccharides; P-ABPS: PRO + ABPS) for a 28-day trial. Compared with CON, pigs in ANT, PRO, ABPS, and P-ABPS had greater (p < 0.05) ADG, ATTD of CP and GE, serum ALB, IgA and IL-2, duodenal intraepithelial lymphocyte, ileal VH and jejunal mucosa sIgA, but lower (p < 0.05) fecal scores, serum BUN, and IL-1β. Meanwhile, ANT, PRO, ABPS, and P-ABPS exhibited similar beneficial roles on growth performance, nutrients digestibility, serum parameters, and immune function. Interestingly, P-ABPS effects were similar to those obtained with ANT rather than with PRO or ABPS. In conclusion, Dietary PRO or ABPS used alone or in combination (P-ABPS), the combination augmenting the positive effect more than the independent supplement, could improve piglets’ growth performance via promoting intestinal nutrient digestion and absorption and enhancing immune function, indicating it had the potential to act as an alternative to in-feed antibiotics used in piglet diets.
Effects of Three Semen Extenders, Breeding Season Month and Freezing–Thawing Cycle on Spermatozoa Preservation of Portuguese Merino Sheep
Authors: Fernandes Margarida , Hernández Pablo Rodríguez , Simões João , Barbas João Pedro
Published: September 2021

This study aimed to evaluate and compare the effect of three semen extenders (S-EXT) on 22 spermatozoa (SPZ) parameters (subjective and computer-assisted sperm analysis evaluations), before and after semen cryopreservation throughout different months of the breeding season in the Portuguese Merino breed. According to the multivariable model, the SPZ viability (alive %), kinetics subjective individual motility, total motility, total progressive motility and its subpopulations, and beat cross frequency) were higher in the egg yolk-based S-EXT improved by Estação Zootécnica National (Portugal) than in Ovixcell® or Andromed® extenders. All the differences were only observed in thawed semen, except for total motility and total progressive motility, in which Ovixcell® also showed the poorest results on fresh semen. An interaction effect between S-EXT and semen processing was observed on 72.3% (17/22) of the evaluated parameters, evidencing a variable cryoprotective action between S-EXT. The SPZ viability was poorer in the onset of the breeding season (end of April/early May) than in the previous middle breeding season (November/early December), suggesting the influence of a short anoestrous season on ejaculate quality, even though the volume and SPZ concentration of the ejaculates remained stable throughout the experiment. Additionally, S-EXT x semen processing x month interaction effect on 59.1% (13/22) of the evaluated parameters evidenced the importance of SPZ time collection in a natural environment to cryopreserve ram’s semen. We concluded that, overall, the egg yolk-based S-EXT provided a greater value to the cryopreservation of Merino rams´ semen. Nevertheless, the causes of the interaction effect between S-EXT, semen processing and/or month on several SPZ parameters should be addressed, including SPZ molecular research in new studies, in order to improve egg yolk-based as well as in egg yolk-free-based S-EXT.
Evaluation of Postmortem Inspection Procedures to Diagnose Bovine Tuberculosis at Debre Birhan Municipal Abattoir
Authors: Woldemariyam Fanos Tadesse , Markos Tibebeu , Shegu Dereje , Abdi Kassa Demissie , Paeshuyse Jan
Published: September 2021

Routine meat inspection in the abattoir was used to examine carcass for subsequent approval for consumption. However, the chance of missing lesions results in approval of carcass and/or the offal with lesions of tuberculosis. A cross-sectional study was conducted at Debre Birhan Municipal abattoir from October 2016 to May 2017. Lesion prevalence estimation and two meat inspection procedures’ efficacy evaluation was attempted. The breeds of the animals inspected were zebu breeds. Routine abattoir meat inspection involves visual inspection, palpation and incision of intact organs such as the liver and kidneys, as well as inspection, palpation and incision of tracheobronchial, mediastinal and prescapular lymph nodes. The detailed meat inspection involves inspection of each of the carcass. In this case, the seven lobes of the two lungs, lymph nodes and organs were also thoroughly examined. The cut surfaces were examined under bright light sources for the presence of an abscess, cheesy mass, and tubercles in detail. The study involved and compared both routine and detailed meat inspections at the abattoir. Chi-square test of independence and odds ratio were used to see the association of lesion and different risk factors. Based on detailed meat inspection, the overall lesion prevalence of bovine tuberculosis in the carcass of cattle slaughtered at Debre Birhan municipality abattoir was found to be 4.7% but only 0.5% of the carcass examined had detectable bovine tuberculosis lesions when routine abattoir meat inspection alone was used. The majority of the lesions were distributed to the lungs and associated lymph nodes. There was a significant association (p < 0.05) in TB infection rate and body condition score. In conclusion, this study has clearly indicated the prevalence of bovine tuberculosis lesions in the abattoir that are missed by routine abattoir meat inspection. In addition, it showed low sensitivity of the routine meat inspection procedure used. Hence, our study warrants immediate attention to strengthen the current meat inspection practices at Debre Birhan public abattoir.
Effect of Post-Grazing Sward Height, Sire Genotype and Indoor Finishing Diet on Steer Intake, Growth and Production in Grass-Based Suckler Weanling-to-Beef Systems
Authors: Doyle Peter R. , McGee Mark , Moloney Aidan P. , Kelly Alan K. , O’Riordan Edward G.
Published: September 2021

This study evaluated the effects of post-grazing sward height (PGSH, 4 or 6 cm) on herbage production, its nutritive value, dry matter (DM) intake, grazing behaviour and growth of early- (EM) and late-maturing (LM) breed suckler steers (n = 72), and the subsequent effect of indoor finishing diet (grass silage + 3.8 kg concentrate DM/head daily (SC), or grass silage only (SO)) on performance and carcass traits. Animals rotationally grazed pasture for 196 days, followed by indoor finishing for 119 days. At pasture, daily live-weight gain (LWG) was 0.10 kg greater for PGSH-6 than PGSH-4, resulting in a tendency for carcass weight to be 11 kg heavier. Although EM had a 0.10 kg greater daily LWG at pasture than LM, carcass weight did not differ between the genotypes. There was a genotype × PGSH interaction for carcass fat score, whereby there was no difference between EM-4 (8.83, 15-point scale) and EM-6 (8.17), but LM-6 (7.28) was greater than LM-4 (6.33). Although concentrate supplementation during indoor finishing increased carcass weight (+37 kg) and fat score (1.75 units), the majority of steers (83% of EM and 78% of LM) achieved a commercially-acceptable carcass fat score (6.78) at slaughter in the grass-forage-only system.
From the Semen Collection Method to the Hatchlings: The Use of Cryopreserved Sperm from Pheasants Fed an Antioxidant-Enriched Diet
Authors: Castillo Annelisse , Lenzi Carla , Pirone Andrea , Baglini Alessandro , Russo Claudia , Soglia Dominga , Schiavone Achille , Marzoni Fecia di Cossato Margherita
Published: September 2021

A widely used approach to preserving genetic diversity in birds involves the cryopreservation of semen. In this process, cells are subjected to physical and chemical stresses, but not all cell species respond equally. Many studies have been published on the freezing–thawing of sperm cells from a wide variety of domestic and wild species, on issues ranging from the sperm quality to different protocols, fertilisation success rates, etc. Nevertheless, very little information is available on the common pheasant. To fill this gap, the aim of this study was to describe the pheasant semen collection method, evaluate some qualitative parameters of sperm from males fed an antioxidant-enriched diet, and to test the in vivo fertilising capacity of the cryo-preserved semen. The freezing protocol employed involved pellets thawed by the hotplate method. Dimethylacetamide was used as a cryoprotectant at a final concentration of 6%. A total of six AIs were performed at 3-4-day intervals on a total of 40 females with doses of 35 × 106 of normal live thawed sperm. Males receiving the enriched diet produce more abundant and concentrated ejaculates. Freeze–thawed sperm lost 85% of their initial mobility, and diet influenced neither sperm mobility nor viability. The enriched diet did improve the number of normal freeze–thawed cells and was associated with a lower sperm fracture incidence. Regardless of the dietary group, frozen–thawed sperm resulted in a fertility rate of 30%, with 8-9 chicks hatching for every 100 eggs incubated.
SheepIT, an E-Shepherd System for Weed Control in Vineyards: Experimental Results and Lessons Learned
Authors: Gonçalves Pedro , Nóbrega Luís , Monteiro António , Pedreiras Paulo , Rodrigues Pedro , Esteves Fernando
Published: September 2021

Weed control in vineyards demands regular interventions that currently consist of the use of machinery, such as plows and brush-cutters, and the application of herbicides. These methods have several drawbacks, including cost, chemical pollution, and the emission of greenhouse gases. The use of animals to weed vineyards, usually ovines, is an ancestral, environmentally friendly, and sustainable practice that was abandoned because of the scarcity and cost of shepherds, which were essential for preventing animals from damaging the vines and grapes. The SheepIT project was developed to automate the role of human shepherds, by monitoring and conditioning the behaviour of grazing animals. Additionally, the data collected in real-time can be used for improving the efficiency of the whole process, e.g., by detecting abnormal situations such as health conditions or attacks and manage the weeding areas. This paper presents a comprehensive set of field-test results, obtained with the SheepIT infrastructure, addressing several dimensions, from the animals’ well-being and their impact on the cultures, to technical aspects, such as system autonomy. The results show that the core objectives of the project have been attained and that it is feasible to use this system, at an industrial scale, in vineyards.
Changes in the Habitat Preference of Crested Ibis (Nipponia nippon) during a Period of Rapid Population Increase
Authors: Ma Liming , Li Xinhai , Zhai Tianqing , Zhang Yazu , Song Kai , Holyoak Marcel , Sun Yuehua
Published: September 2021

The number of breeding pairs of crested ibis (Nipponia nippon) in Hanzhong, China has recovered remarkably from 2 to 511 from 1981 to 2019. Although the crested ibis has been closely monitored, the habitat preference of the bird has not been well studied despite the extensive increase in abundance. We used nest site data from the past 39 years and 30 environmental variables to develop species distribution models for each year. We applied random forest to select important environmental variables, and used logistic regressions to quantify the changes in habitat preferences in 39 years, taking into account the effects of interaction and quadratic terms. We found that six variables had strong impacts on nest site selection. The interaction term of rice paddies and waterbodies, and the quadratic term of precipitation of the wettest quarter of the year were the most important correlates of nest presence. Human impact at nest sites changed from low to high as birds increased their use of ancestral habitats with abundant rice paddies. We concluded that during the population recovery, the crested ibises retained their dependence on wetlands, yet moved from remote areas to populated rural regions where food resources had recovered due to the ban of pesticide use.