bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Post-traumatic stress disorder among healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Italy: Effectiveness of an eye movement desensitization and reprocessing intervention protocol
Authors: Fernandez Isabel , Pagani Marco , Gallina Eugenio
Published: September 2022

Aim

The Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic represents one of the most catastrophic events of recent times. Due to the hospitals’ emergency situation, the population of healthcare workers was the most affected. Healthcare workers who were exposed to COVID-19 patients are most likely to develop psychological distress and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The present study aimed at investigating PTSD in a sample of Italian healthcare workers during this outbreak and to evaluate the effectiveness of the Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy with this population.

Methods

A total of 744 healthcare workers were included. 587 healthcare workers were treated with EMDR, while the other 157 were not treated. Participants were asked to provide sociodemographic information; the post-traumatic symptomatology was evaluated through Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R) and to investigate the level of intensity of emotional activation was used The Emotion Thermometer (THERMO) at two time points (pre-post treatment).

Results

The results obtained between EMDR treatment and non-EMDR treatment were evaluated on only 2 hospitals. Treatment group n = 68 vs. waitlist non-treatment group n = 157. All scores pre- and post-EMDR decreased significantly (p < 0.001) showing an evident effect of EMDR. The differences between pre- and post-treatment of the IES-R scores of subjects in which EMDR was performed as compared to the scores pre- and post-12 weeks of waiting list subjects in which it was not performed were significantly different (p < 0.001).

Limitation

The emergency situation did not provide an opportunity to explore further aspects that would have been important for research. One limitation is the use and analysis of only two standardized tests. In addition, other psychopathologies were not investigated as outcome measures. A limitation is the comparison of subjects treated online and de visu. Although the protocol used was the same, the mode of intervention may have influenced the results. In addition, the effectiveness of EMDR treatment was only evaluated at two time points (pre-post) with no possibility of follow-up and the lack of a control group.

Discussion/conclusion

The findings of the present study suggest that healthcare workers were at high risk of developing PTSD when confronted with COVID-19 outbreak and suggest the importance of psychological support during this humanitarian emergency.
The impact of morally injurious events in a refugee sample: A quantitative and qualitative study
Authors: Mooren Nora , Boelen Paul A. , de la Rie Simone M.
Published: September 2022

Background

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is often reported by refugees that faced violence and persecution. Some stressful events may also entail moral conflicts or dilemmas, described as “potentially morally injurious events” (PMIE). Very few studies have yet investigated the nature of these PMIEs in traumatized refugees, using both quantitative and qualitative data.

Method

For this retrospective study, secondary data analysis was used to examine the traumatic events of 183 patients. Based on established definitions of a PMIE, participants were allocated to a Moral Injury (MI) group if they reported lasting distress after exposure to an event of which they indicated that it transgressed their moral beliefs. The remaining participants were allocated to the No-MI group. The type of PMIEs was categorized using qualitative analysis. The groups were compared in terms of PTSD severity, feelings of guilt, and general mental health symptoms.

Results

Of the total sample, 55 participants reported one or more acts of transgression (MI group) and 128 reported no acts of transgression (No-MI group). Analyses of PMIEs revealed six themes 1) failing to prevent harm to others, 2) not giving aid to people in need, 3) leaving family members behind that consequently lead to injury or death of others, 4) making indirect and direct moral decisions leading to injury or death of others, 5) betrayal, and 6) engaging in the harm of others. No differences were found between groups on the clinical outcomes, except for feelings of guilt.

Conclusion

A considerable number of traumatized refugees reported confrontation with PMIEs. Experiencing PMIEs appeared unrelated to elevated posttraumatic mental health issues.
The nomograms for predicting overall and cancer-specific survival in elderly patients with early-stage lung cancer: A population-based study using SEER database
Authors: Yu Gen , Liu Xiaozhu , Li Yunhe , Zhang Yang , Yan Ruxin , Zhu Lingfeng , Wang Zhongjian
Published: September 2022

Purpose

Lung cancer is the leading cause of death from cancer and the number of operable elderly lung cancer patients is increasing, with advanced age being associated with a poorer prognosis. However, there is no easy and comprehensive prognostic assessment method for these patients.

Methods

Clinicopathological data of patients aged 65 years or older with TNM stage I-II lung cancer from 2004 to 2018 were downloaded from the SEER database. Patients from 2004 to 2015 were randomized into a training group (n = 16,457) and a validation group (n = 7,048). Data from 2016 to 2018 (n = 6,231) were used for external validation. Two nomogram prognostic models were created after independent prognostic factors connected to both overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) in the training set by using univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression analysis. In turn, overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) were predicted for patients at 1, 3, and 5 years. Based on the concordance index (C-index), calibration curves, area under the receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve (AUC), the time-dependent area under the ROC curve, the validity, accuracy, discrimination, predictive ability, and clinical utility of the models were evaluated. Decision curve analysis (DCA) was used to assess the clinical value of the models.

Results

A total of 29,736 patients were included. Univariate and multivariate analyses suggested that age, race, gender, marriage, disease grade, AJCC stage, T-stage, surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and tumor size were independent risk factors for patient prognosis. These 11 variables were included in nomogram to predict OS and CSS of patients. C-indexes of OS for the training, validation and external validation sets were 0.730 (95% CI, 0.709–0.751), 0.734 (95% CI, 0.722–0.746), and 0.750 (95% CI, 0.734–0.766), respectively. The AUC results for the training and validation sets indicated good accuracy for this nomogram. The calibration curves demonstrated a high degree of concordance between actual and anticipated values, and the DCA demonstrated that the nomograms had better clinical application than the traditional TNM staging approach.

Conclusion

This study identified risk factors for survival in operable elderly lung cancer patients and established a new column line graph for predicting OS and CSS in these patients. The model has good clinical application and can be a good clinical decision-making tool for physicians and patients.
Improving plant disease classification by adaptive minimal ensembling
Authors: Bruno Antonio , Moroni Davide , Dainelli Riccardo , Rocchi Leandro , Morelli Silvia , Ferrari Emilio , Toscano Piero , Martinelli Massimo
Published: September 2022

A novel method for improving plant disease classification, a challenging and time-consuming process, is proposed. First, using as baseline EfficientNet, a recent and advanced family of architectures having an excellent accuracy/complexity trade-off, we have introduced, devised, and applied refined techniques based on transfer learning, regularization, stratification, weighted metrics, and advanced optimizers in order to achieve improved performance. Then, we go further by introducing adaptive minimal ensembling, which is a unique input to the knowledge base of the proposed solution. This represents a leap forward since it allows improving the accuracy with limited complexity using only two EfficientNet-b0 weak models, performing ensembling on feature vectors by a trainable layer instead of classic aggregation on outputs. To the best of our knowledge, such an approach to ensembling has never been used before in literature. Our method was tested on PlantVillage, a public reference dataset used for benchmarking models' performances for crop disease diagnostic, considering both its original and augmented versions. We noticeably improved the state of the art by achieving 100% accuracy in both the original and augmented datasets. Results were obtained using PyTorch to train, test, and validate the models; reproducibility is granted by providing exhaustive details, including hyperparameters used in the experimentation. A Web interface is also made publicly available to test the proposed methods.
Effects of information provision on public attitudes toward bioplastics in Japan
Authors: Otaki Yurina , Kyono Taisei
Published: September 2022

Bioplastics (i.e., bio-based and biodegradable plastics) are attracting attention as a sustainable alternative to conventional fossil-based plastics. However, their use in Japan, the fifth-highest per capita disposal of single-use plastics, has not become as widespread as planned by the Japanese government, and an increase in consumer awareness is necessary to promote the use of bioplastics and increase the demand for sustainable products. In addition, to promote social implementation, it is also necessary to understand the difference between bio-based and biodegradable plastics and use them correctly. Through an online questionnaire survey, this study found that the Japanese public's knowledge of bioplastics was low: there was a major difference between subjective and objective knowledge, but their perception of bioplastics was more positive than that of conventional plastics. However, they had little experience in using bioplastics. Therefore, we investigated whether providing information would promote the intent to use bioplastics. As a result, information provision is likely to be effective in increasing the willingness to use bioplastics in addition to promoting positive perceptions. The participants indicated a significantly greater willingness to pay a higher price for single-use plastics (such as a 500 ml bottle of water), but not for durable plastics (such as a three-color ballpoint pen).
Conducting rapid research to aid the design of a health systems governance intervention in the Somali Region of Ethiopia
Authors: Pieterse Pieternella
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The rapid research described in this chapter was conducted as an assignment for a UN agency in Ethiopia's Somali Region. The agency's aim was support the implementation of an interim citizen engagement intervention, with a view of supporting of the Ethiopian Government's Citizen Score Card at primary healthcare facilities and hospitals in future. Many health facilities in Somali Region struggle with budget shortages related to ineffective budget planning and budget execution at woreda health office levels. In this context, an intervention to first improve budget accountability, through the implementation of citizen audits, was proposed.

Methodology

The rapid study focused on five woredas (districts) within Somali Region, where interviews were conducted with the heads of woreda health offices. In the same five woredas, directors of healthcare facilities were interviewed and offices and healthcare facilities were observed. The framework of assessment and analysis was based on health systems literature on fragile and conflict affected states guided the questions for the health authorities and health facility management.

Findings

The research yielded five distinct mini case studies covering woreda health office planning and budgeting capacity and support (or lack thereof), and related impressions of challenges regarding healthcare delivery at health facilities in the same five woredas.

Results

The findings demonstrated that the capacity for healthcare planning and budgeting Somali Region at woreda level varied significantly and that little guidance was available from regional level health authorities. Frontline health services clearly suffered from budget shortages as a result.

Conclusion

The research provided an evidence base for the delay of the roll-out of the Community Scorecard implementation across Somali Region. In a context whereby health facilities remain under-resourced due to budgeting constraints, a citizen-service provider-focused accountability intervention would have been of limited utility. The rapid case study research, conducted by condensing the usual case study research process, allowed for the production of evidence that was “robust enough” to demonstrate heterogeneity and challenges regarding budgeting quality across the five research sites. This evidence clearly transcended the hitherto anecdotal evidence that woreda-level health budget planning remains an area that faces significant shortcomings.
Phosphorus Sorption Capacity and Its Relationships With Soil Properties Under Podzolic Soils of Atlantic Canada
Authors: Kedir Amana Jemal , Nyiraneza Judith , Hawboldt Kelly Anne , McKenzie David Bruce , Unc Adrian
Published: September 2022

Repetitive long-term fertilizer application leads to phosphorus (P) accumulation in agricultural soils. This can pose environmental risks if the soil’s phosphorus storage capacity is not well understood and considered when planning nutrient management. We investigated the P sorption capacity (PSC) in the surface (0-20 cm, n = 23) and subsurface (20-40 cm, n = 23) of long-term managed podzolic soils in Newfoundland (Nfld), Canada, through batch adsorption using two P concentrations of 150 and 500 mg P L-1, and developed pedotransfer functions to estimate PSC using selected soil properties. Also, the correlation between actual PSC, soil properties, and estimated Phosphorus saturation index (PSI) and soil P sorption capacity (SPSC) both from standard soil test were evaluated. The surface and subsurface soils provided similar median PSC (1.34 and 1.32 mg g-1, respectively, p = 0.16) when examined with the 150 mg P L-1 solution. With 500 mg P L-1 solution, the subsurface soils had significantly higher median PSC than the surface soils of the same fields (2.74 and 2.27 mg g-1, respectively, p = 0.02); and had a better linear relationship (R2 >0.40, p <0.05) with SPSC than at the lower P concentration. The surface soils had significantly higher extractable median P in water, citric acid, and Mehlich-3, higher soil organic matter (SOM), moisture content, Mehlich-3-Fe, -Ca, and -K, PSI, electrical conductivity, silt, and clay contents, while Mehlich-3-Al, Mehlich-3-Al : Fe ratio, SPSC, and sand were lower than those in the subsurface soils. All soils had comparable pH (~6.3). Pedotransfer function revealed that the PSC could be predicted using SOM, Mehlich-3-Al, and Mehlich-3-PICP and thus may be employed for developing testable hypotheses relevant to environmentally and economically viable P management strategies for acidic soils in boreal regions.
Association between spinal disorders and different domains of physical activity among young adult men
Authors: Honkanen Tuomas , Vaara Jani P. , Pihlajamäki Harri , Västilä Ville , Kyröläinen Heikki
Published: September 2022

Background

There is limited evidence of how physical activity (PA) associates with low back pain (LBP) and neck pain (NP). Particularly, the association between occupational or commuting PA and LBP/NP is unclear. The aim of the present cross-sectional study was to investigate the association between spinal disorders and different physical activity domains in young and healthy adult men.

Methods

Self-reported leisure time, occupational and commuting PA, as well as LBP and NP, were studied using questionnaires among young Finnish males (n = 1,630). Logistic regression analysis was used to study the associations of PA domains, physical fitness, and spinal disorders. Regression models were adjusted for age, education, smoking, waist circumference, and the other PA domains.

Results

There was a positive association between moderate leisure-time PA and both LBP (OR: 1.51, 95% CI: 1.18–1.95) and NP (OR: 1.29, 95% CI: 1.00–1.66) compared to low PA. Furthermore, moderate (OR: 1.31, 95% CI: 1.00–1.71) and high (OR: 1.53, 95% CI: 1.15–2.02) leisure time PA groups had a higher likelihood of lumbago. Moderate (OR: 0.67, 95% CI: 0.51–0.90) and high (OR: 0.68, 95% CI: 0.48–0.95) occupational PA groups had lower likelihood for radiating LBP, while high occupational PA (OR: 0.72, 95% CI: 0.52–0.99) had lower likelihood for lumbago.

Conclusions

The associations between physical activity and LBP or NP seem to vary between different domains of physical activity among young healthy men. Commuting and occupation-related PA appear not to be harmfully associated with LPB or NP, whereas moderate-level leisure time PA may be associated with increased LBP and NP, and the respective high level may be associated with an increase in the prevalence of lumbago.
Food governance for better access to sustainable diets: A review
Authors: del Valle M Martín , Shields Kirsteen , Alvarado Vázquez Mellado Ana Sofía , Boza Sofía
Published: September 2022

‘Governance’, understood as organizational governance, is essential to more sustainable food provisioning systems ensuring sustainable health, heritage, and natural environments. Governance enables regional and local perspectives to be aligned with commitments from national and international organizations. Within the wealth of scholarship on food systems governance, agricultural governance and agency is a rarely interrogated dimension, despite the clear impacts of agricultural decisions on health and environmental outcomes. In this paper we discuss the findings of a scoping review that focuses on the question “How can food governance transform food systems to ensure better access to sustainable diets?”, meaning diet that protect health, cultures, and the natural environment. Our results show that it is first needed to determine the governance level and the expected outcomes. From a national perspective, policy coherence is described as a way in which different public institutions can add to the sustainable diets access goal. From a local perspective, community supported activities and the incorporation of local knowledge are also described as ways that can help achieving an improvement on sustainable diets access. Either from a regional or local perspective, commitment from organizations must be ensured for common objectives being aligned. Also, it is necessary to request more from the agricultural sector role in delivering nutritionally and environmentally appropriate food. Thus, the idea of governing agriculture as a health and environmental activity is an approach that should be considered when designing, implementing, and assessing food systems.
Preliminary experience on laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenal combined with major venous resection and reconstruction anastomosis
Authors: Peng Xuehui , He Yonggang , Tang Yichen , Yang Xiaomin , Huang Wen , Li Jing , Zheng Lu , Huang Xiaobing
Published: September 2022

Objective

This study aims to summarize our experience in laparoscopic pancreatoduodenectomy (LPD) combined with major venous resection and reconstruction, as well as to evaluate its safety and discuss the surgical approach.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 14 cases of patients diagnosed with pancreatic tumors invaded the superior mesenteric vein or portal vein who had undergone LPD combined with major venous resection and reconstruction in our center from May 2016 to May 2020. Clinical data of these 14 patients were collected and analyzed, including general information (age, gender, pathological diagnosis, body mass index, etc.), intraoperative data (operation time, intraoperative blood loss, transit rate, blood transfusion, tumor diameter, R0 resection rate, cleaning lymph node number, removal vessel length, venous reconstruction time), and postoperative results (gastrointestinal function recovery, postoperative hospital time, complications, and fatality rate). Patients were followed up after surgery, and data were collected for statistical analysis.

Results

A total of 14 patients (9 males and 5 females) received LPD combined with major venous resection and reconstruction by arterial approach. The mean age was 52.5 (43–74) years old. Three of these 14 patients had routine wedge resection, 9 had opposite-to-end anastomosis after venous resection, 2 had artificial venous replacement, and the average length of removal vessel was 3.1 (2–4.5) cm. The operation time was 395 (310–570) min; the venous blocking time was 29.7 (26–50) min; the hospitalization stay was 13.6 (9–39) days. There was no grade B or C postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) that occurred, only one patient had biochemical fistula. One patient had upper gastrointestinal bleeding after subcutaneous injection of low molecular weight (LMW) heparin, and the condition was alleviated after conservative treatment, and one had pulmonary infection. The 12-month disease-free survival rate was 85.7%, and the 12-month overall survival rate was 92.8%. No patients had 30-day re-admission or death.

Conclusion

On the basis of the surgeon’s proficiency in open pancreatoduodenectomy combined with venous resection and reconstruction and standard LPD, the arterial approach for LPD combined with major venous resection and reconstruction is safe and feasible.
Lifestyle Behaviours of Children and Adolescents During the First Two Waves of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Switzerland and Their Relation to Well-Being: An Observational Study
Authors: Peralta Gabriela P. , Camerini Anne-Linda , Haile Sarah R. , Kahlert Christian R. , Lorthe Elsa , Marciano Laura , Nussbaumer Andres , Radtke Thomas , Ulyte Agne , Puhan Milo A. , Kriemler Susi
Published: September 2022

Objectives: To describe changes in adherence to recommendations for physical activity (PA), screen time (ST), and sleep duration over the first two waves of the pandemic in Switzerland, and to assess the associations of these lifestyle behaviours with life satisfaction and overall health as well-being indicators.

Methods: In this observational study, we included 2,534 participants (5–16 years) from four Swiss cantons. Participants, or their parents, completed repeated questionnaires and reported on their (child’s) lifestyle and well-being, between June 2020 and April 2021. We used linear and logistic regression models to assess the associations between lifestyle and well-being.

Results: The percentage of children meeting the recommendations for PA and ST decreased from the pre-pandemic period to the first wave, with a slight recovery during the second wave. Participants meeting all three recommendations during the second wave were more likely to report excellent health (OR: 1.65 [95% CI: 1.00–2.76]) and higher life satisfaction (β: 0.46 [0.16–0.77]) in early 2021 than participants not meeting any recommendation.

Conclusion: We showed a substantial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on children’s and adolescents’ lifestyle, and a positive association between meeting lifestyle recommendations and well-being.
A Hybrid Control Strategy for a PMSM-Based Aircraft Cargo Door Actuator
Authors: Wang Xin , Wang Xiaolu , Xue Zhao , Guo Peng , Liu Shuai
Published: September 2022

There are some disadvantages of a traditional AC-induced motor or hydraulic cylinder-based aircraft cargo door actuator (CDA), such as strong stopping shock, big slippage, high power, or current demand. To solve these problems, a permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM)-based linear CDA has been developed, and a hybrid control method combining speed plan and control, power current restriction has been proposed. In other words, low-speed-loop servo control is used in opening and closing positions, and power restricted control is adopted otherwise. A multidisciplinary model is constructed with Simulink. The simulation results show that vibration and slippage are reduced dramatically for the cargo door mechanism, and power is restricted during the whole procedure, which also results in good adaptability performance over a wide range of loads and temperatures. Experiments with different load levels on a test rig and in a temperature chamber at −50 °C are implemented to verify the effectiveness of the strategy.
Soil Organic Matter, Aggregates, and Microbial Characteristics of Intercropping Soybean under Straw Incorporation and N Input
Authors: Zheng Benchuan , Chen Ping , Du Qing , Yang Huan , Luo Kai , Wang Xiaochun , Yang Feng , Yong Taiwen , Yang Wenyu
Published: September 2022

Soil organic matter (SOM), soil aggregates, and soil microbes play key roles in agriculture soil fertility. In intercropping systems, the influences of straw incorporation and N input on the dynamics of soil physicochemical and microbial properties and their relationships are still unclear. We explore the changes in soil physicochemical and microbial properties with two straw managements, i.e., wheat straw incorporation (SI) and straw removal (SR), and four N supply rates for intercropped soybean, i.e., 60 (N60), 30 (N30), 15 (N15), and 0 (N0) kg N ha−1, in the wheat–maize–soybean relay strip intercropping systems. The results showed that SOM and SOM fractions contents, soil macroaggregate stability, and microbial and fungal α-diversity, e.g., Chao1 and Shannon indices, increased through straw incorporation and N input. The α-diversity was significantly positively correlated with soil physicochemical characteristics. Compared with SR, the relative abundance of ActinobacteriaandMortierellomycota in SI increased, but the relative abundance of Proteobacteria, Acidobacteria, and Ascomycota in SI decreased. In SI treatment, soil physicochemical characteristics and microbial diversity improved through N input, but that difference was not significant between N60 and N30. In conclusion, SI+N30 was the most effective way to maintain soil fertility and reduce the N fertilizer input in the wheat–maize–soybean relay strip intercropping.
Effects of Tillage Methods on Crop Root Growth Trend Based on 3D Modeling Technology
Authors: Yang Yanshan , Hu Zhichao , Gu Fengwei , Wang Jiangnan , Ding Qishuo
Published: September 2022

Strip rotary tillage seeding technology has been widely used in rice–wheat rotation system, benefiting the economy greatly. The purpose of farming is to create a comfortable seedbed environment for crop growth. Therefore, it is necessary to consider the effects of tillage methods on wheat root configuration and growth trend in the research of strip tillage, instead of just focusing on optimizing the shape of tillage tools, sowing methods, and soil fragmentation. To clarify the effects of different tillage methods on crop root growth trends, a two-year wheat planting experiment was carried out. Strip tillage (ST1 and ST2) and full width tillage treatment (FT) were designed, 3D models of root structure and soil on the surface of the seedbed wall were established, and four quantitative indexes were proposed: soil surface roughness of seedbed wall (SR), difference coefficient of root soil space occupation (P), difference coefficient of root angle expansion trend (PA), and difference coefficient of root length expansion trend (PL). The results showed that the cultivation method directly affects the growth trend of wheat roots. The wheat roots tended to grow along the inter-specific direction under ST treatment on the 14th day, and the average P, PA, and PL were as high as 38, 43, and 55, respectively. The SR produced by ST1 treatment was 70% lower than that of ST2 treatment, suggesting ST1 treatment had more serious restrictions on root growth. P, PA, and PL in ST1 treatment were 38.5%, 14%, and 43% higher than those in ST2 treatment within 14 days, respectively. This paper briefly explains the effects of tillage methods on the growth trend of wheat roots, provides new methods and technologies for the rapid and effective acquisition of soil surface information, solved the problem of the trend of root expansion being difficult to quantify, and provided a new direction for the optimization of tillage methods.
VvMYBPA2 Regulated the Accumulation of Flavan-3-ols though Forming a Trimeric Complex in ‘Zaoheibao’ Grape
Authors: Liang Changmei , Guo Jianyong , Chen Mingxiang , Zhang Xuehui , Zhang Guorong , Zhang Pengfei , Liang Jinjun , Wen Pengfei
Published: September 2022

Flavan-3-ols are monomers of Proanthocyanidins (PAs), which are important polyphenolic compounds in grapes. Previous studies had shown that VvMYBPA2 was closely related to grape flavan-3-ol monomers biosynthesis, but its regulatory network is still unclear. Here, we found that the contents of (+)-catechin and (−)-epicatechin, the enzyme activities of anthocyanidin reductase (ANR) and leucoanthocyanidin reductase (LAR) and the expression of VvANR and VvLAR1 were increased in the VvMYBPA2 overexpression grape leaves compared to the control. It was proved that VvMYBPA2 protein interacted with VvWDR1 and VvWDR1 protein interacted with VvMYC2 by yeast two-hybrid (Y2H) and bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC). The promoters of VvANR and VvLAR1 were bound by VvMYBPA2 using yeast one-hybrid (Y1H) assay. These results suggested that VvMYBPA2 could form a trimeric complex with VvWDR1 and VvMYC2 and jointly regulated the expression of flavan-3-ol monomers related genes VvANR and VvLAR1, thereby affecting the enzyme activities of ANR and LAR and ultimately regulating the contents of flavan-3-ols.
Soil Autotrophic Bacterial Community Structure and Carbon Utilization Are Regulated by Soil Disturbance—The Case of a 19-Year Field Study
Authors: Liu Chang , Xie Junhong , Luo Zhuzhu , Cai Liqun , Li Lingling
Published: September 2022

The roles of bacterial communities in the health of soil microenvironments can be more adequately defined through longer-term soil management options. Carbon dioxide (CO2) fixation by autotrophic bacteria is a principal factor in soil carbon cycles. However, the information is limited to how conservation tillage practices alter soil physiochemical properties, autotrophic bacterial communities, and microbial catabolic diversity. In this study, we determined the changes in autotrophic bacterial communities and carbon substrate utilization in response to different soil management practices. A replicated field study was established in 2001, with the following soil treatments arranged in a randomized complete block: conventional tillage with crop residue removed (T), conventional tillage with residue incorporated into the soil (TS), no tillage with crop residue removed (NT), and no tillage with residue remaining on the soil surface (NTS). Soils were sampled in 2019 and microbial DNA was analyzed using high-throughput sequencing. After the 19-year (2001–2019) treatments, the soils with conservation tillage (NTS and NT) increased the soil’s microbial biomass carbon by 13%, organic carbon by 5%, and total nitrogen by 16% compared to conventional tillage (T and TS). The NTS treatment increased the abundance of the cbbL gene by 53% in the soil compared with the other soil treatments. The cbbL-carrying bacterial community was mainly affiliated with the phylum Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria, accounting for 56–85% of the community. Retaining crop residue in the field (NTS and TS) enhanced community-level physiological profiles by 31% and carbon substrate utilization by 32% compared to those without residue retention (T and NT). The 19 years of soil management lead to the conclusion that minimal soil disturbance, coupled with crop residue retention, shaped autotrophic bacterial phylogenetics, modified soil physicochemical properties, and created a microenvironment that favored CO2-fixing activity and increased soil productivity.
The Effects of Planting Date and Tillage Practice on Growth and Yield of Maize and Soybean in Rotation with Winter Onion
Authors: Lee Jihyeon , Choi Miri , Choi Nayoung , Kim Gamgon , Lee Yunho , Bae Huisu , Na Chaein
Published: September 2022

Introducing summer staple crops to diversify conventional summer paddy rice (Oryza sativa L.) and onion (Allium cepa L.) rotation is important for sustainable agriculture. Herein, we evaluate the effects of planting date (early June to late July) and tillage practice (deep cultivation, DC; conventional tillage, CT) on two maize and soybean cultivars over 4 years (2018–2021) in converted paddy soil in Korea. Due to the growing degree-day differences, the yields of June and July planted crops were 7050 and 5554 total digestible nutrient kg ha−1, respectively, for silage corn, and 7410 and 6473 marketable fresh ear kg ha−1, respectively, for waxy corn. Delaying soybean planting from June to July significantly reduced crops’ yield and interfered with field preparation for the following winter cash crops. The June and July planting yields were 2672 and 2090 kg ha−1, respectively, for large-grain soybean, and 2416 and 1861 kg ha−1, respectively, for small-grain soybean. Deep tillage had no effect on summer crops yield. Additionally, the summer crop growing practice had no residual effect on onion yield. Our study recommends mid to late June planting for growers who wish to introduce maize and soybean in rotation with winter onion in the region.
Laboratory Analyses Used to Define the Nutritional Parameters and Quality Indexes of Some Unusual Forages
Authors: Tassone Sonia , Mabrouki Sabah , Barbera Salvatore , Glorio Patrucco Sara
Published: September 2022

The quality of a forage influences the production of animals, and it can be defined in many ways. Laboratory analyses are important tools because they can be used to indicate the quality of the forages, and they represent a relatively quick way of defining their nutritive values. However, specific quality indexes are necessary to evaluate and rank forages. The quality of conventional forages is predicted by different indexes, according to whether they are legumes or grasses. However, no indications are given about what formulae should be used for unusual forages. In the present study, laboratory analyses have been conducted on three unusual crops belonging to three different botanical families (amaranth, borage, and camelina) at four growth stages, and conventional quality indexes have been calculated and applied to establish their quality. The obtained results have shown that the nutritive value of the unusual forages modified during the growth, although they always maintained a high quality. Hence, the Relative Feed Value of unusual forages can be measured using the ADF content or digestibility value. The Relative Forage Quality, calculated with the legume formula, seems more appropriate for the considered unusual forages as it was able to reveal any changes that took place during maturity.
Palm Kernel Cake in Diets for Lactating Goats: Intake, Digestibility, Feeding Behavior, Milk Production, and Nitrogen Metabolism
Authors: Ferreira Fernanda G. , Leite Laudí C. , Alba Henry D. R. , Pina Douglas dos S. , Santos Stefanie A. , Tosto Manuela S. L. , Rodrigues Carlindo S. , de Lima Júnior Dorgival M. , de Oliveira Juliana S. , de Freitas Júnior José E. , de C. Mesquita Bruna M. A. , de Carvalho Gleidson G. P.
Published: September 2022

This study was carried out to determine the optimal inclusion rate of palm kernel cake (PKC) in diets for lactating goats based on intake, digestibility, feeding behavior, milk production and nitrogen metabolism. Twelve goats were used, eight Saanen and four Anglo Nubian, with a body weight of 46.0 ± 9.4 kg and 105 ± 5 days of lactation, distributed in a 4 × 4 Latin square design in triplicate. The diets were composed of increasing levels of PKC; 0, 80, 160 and 240 g kg−1 of dry matter (DM). The DM, crude protein, neutral detergent fiber and non-fibrous carbohydrates intakes decreased (p < 0.01) with the PKC inclusion. Milk production and milk protein decreased (p = 0.001), and milk production efficiency was not affected (p > 0.05) by the PKC inclusion. The ether extract intake varied quadratically (p < 0.01). Feeding and rumination efficiencies of dry matter and NDF were reduced (p < 0.001). The fat and total solids contents of the milk were influenced quadratically (p < 0.05). Nitrogen excretion (feces and milk), and retained nitrogen decreased (p < 0.001). Moderate use of up to 80 g kg−1 DM of PKC in the diet of lactating goats is recommended since at these levels milk production or body weight are significantly affected.
Transcriptome Profile Analysis of Intestinal Upper Villus Epithelial Cells and Crypt Epithelial Cells of Suckling Piglets
Authors: Zou Lijun , Shao Yirui , Xu Yinfeng , Wu Yuliang , Zhou Jian , Xiong Xia , Yin Yulong
Published: September 2022

It is well known that the small intestinal epithelial cells of mammals rapidly undergo differentiation, maturation, and apoptosis. However, few studies have defined the physiological state and gene expression changes of enterocytes along the crypt-villus axis in suckling piglets. In the present study, we obtained the intestinal upper villus epithelial cells (F1) and crypt epithelial cells (F3) of 21-day suckling piglets using the divalent chelation and precipitation technique. The activities of alkaline phosphatase, sucrase, and lactase of F1 were significantly higher (p < 0.05) than those of F3. To explore the differences at the gene transcription level, we compared the global transcriptional profiles of F1 and F3 using RNA-seq analysis technology. A total of 672 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified between F1 and F3, including 224 highly expressed and 448 minimally expressed unigenes. Functional analyses indicated that some DEGs were involved in the transcriptional regulation of nutrient transportation (SLC15A1, SLC5A1, and SLC3A1), cell differentiation (LGR5, HOXA5 and KLF4), cell proliferation (PLK2 and TGFB3), transcriptional regulation (JUN, FOS and ATF3), and signaling transduction (WNT10B and BMP1), suggesting that these genes were related to intestinal epithelial cell maturation and cell renewal. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis showed that the DEGs were mainly associated with binding, catalytic activity, enzyme regulator activity, and molecular transducer activity. Furthermore, KEGG pathway analysis revealed that the DGEs were categorized into 284 significantly enriched pathways. The greatest number of DEGs enriched in signal transduction, some of which (Wnt, Hippo, TGF-beta, mTOR, PI3K-Akt, and MAPK signaling pathways) were closely related to the differentiation, proliferation, maturation and apoptosis of intestinal epithelial cells. We validated the expression levels of eight DEGs in F1 and F3 using qRT-PCR. The present study revealed temporal and regional changes in mRNA expression between F1 and F3 of suckling piglets, which provides insights into the regulatory mechanisms underlying intestinal epithelial cell renewal and the rapid repair of intestinal mucosal damage.
Efficiency of Pyroligneous Extract from Jurema Preta (Mimosa tenuiflora [Willd.] Poiret) as an Antiseptic in Cats (Felis catus) Subjected to Ovariosalpingohysterectomy
Authors: Feijo Francisco Marlon Carneiro , Fernandes Fernando da Costa , Alves Nilza Dutra , Pimenta Alexandre Santos , Santos Caio Sergio , Rodrigues Gardenia Silvana de Oliveira , Pereira Alexsandra Fernandes , Benicio Leon Denner Moreira , Moura Yasmin Beatriz França
Published: September 2022

Pyroligneous extract of Jurema preta (Mimosa tenuiflora [Willd.] Poiret) was evaluated for its efficacy as a cutaneous antiseptic in cats (Felis catus) that were subjected to ovariosalpingohysterectomy. For this purpose, 30 cats without a defined breed were sterilized and divided into two groups. The first group was the positive control, treated with 0.5% chlorhexidine-alcohol solution, and the second group was treated with 20% pyroligneous extract of M. tenuiflora. Regardless of age and sex, all animals had visible healing at similar times. A significant reduction in bacterial growth was observed in animals treated with the extract, and no cytotoxicity was observed in the feline epithelial cells. In addition, surgical wounds of cats treated with M. tenuiflora extract exhibited improved healing. On agar plates, treatment with both chlorhexidine and M. tenuiflora extract resulted in the inhibition zones for all bacterial strains isolated from surgical wounds. Therefore, M. tenuiflora extract is demonstrated to have antiseptic effects on the surgical wounds of cats undergoing ovariosalpingohysterectomy.
Characteristics of the Mating Behavior of Domesticated Geese from Anser cygnoides and Anser anser
Authors: Bao Qiang , Zhang Yang , Yao Ying , Luo Xuan , Zhao Wenming , Wang Jiwen , Chen Guohong , Xu Qi
Published: September 2022

Mating behavior is a critically important component of poultry reproduction. Here, a total of 135 geese were selected, specifically, Sichuan white geese (Anser cygnoides), Zhedong white geese (Anser cygnoides), and Hungarian geese (Anser anser) (300-day-old), and the mating behavior was monitored daily from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. during the 20-day observation period. The results showed that the mating process included mounting, female cooperation, and successful copulation. Overall, the three breeds preferred mating on land. More than thirty percent of the mating time was primarily concentrated from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. in domesticated geese from Anser cygnoides, the corresponding values for Sichuan white geese and Zhedong white geese were 32.0% and 33.3%, respectively. The mating of the Hungarian geese usually took place in the morning. In addition, the frequency of successful copulation of Sichuan white geese and Zhedong white geese were 2.31 and 1.94 times per day, significantly greater than that of Hungarian geese (0.89 times). Furthermore, a significant positive correlation between successful copulation and laying rates (r = 0.985) or fertilization rates (r = 0.992) was observed in Hungarian geese. Taken together, the mating behaviors among the different breeds were mainly reflected in time preference and successful copulation frequency.
Effect of Different Thawing Methods for Frozen Bull Semen and Additional Factors on the Conception Rate of Dairy Cows in Artificial Insemination
Authors: Koch Jacqueline , Weber Laura Patricia , Heppelmann Maike , Freise Fritjof , Klingelmann Malte , Bachmann Lisa
Published: September 2022

Recommendations for thawing methods of frozen bovine semen vary and clear data evaluating their influence on fertility are contradictory. In this respect, the aim of this study was to investigate the influence of different thawing methods of frozen bull semen in artificial insemination (AI) of dairy cows on conception rate (CR) under practical conditions and to determine further possible influencing factors on the success of AI in order to provide recommendations for practical use. From 2017 to 2019, 3393 AI were performed in a dairy farm in eastern Germany, distributed randomly into three groups of thawing methods: group A: n = 426 (11 s, 38 °C water bath); group B: n = 348 (35 s, 38 °C water bath); group C: n = 385 (30 s, “in the cow”). We observed no significant difference in CR from the general linear mixed model between the thawing methods (method A/B/C, 28.5%/26.6%/24.7%), but data analysis revealed effects of lactation number, month of insemination and AI method (natural heat vs. OvSynch) on CR. Based on our data, no clear recommendation for semen thawing method in dairy reproduction can be made. Our findings suggest that the main factors of influencing reproductive performance in the field are represented by the cow-side of fertility, e.g., insemination in natural heat, lactation number and season of insemination. Therefore, dairy farmers should focus more on cow conditions to further improve reproductive performance.
Effect of Dietary Lactose Supplementation on Growth Performance and Intestinal Epithelium Functions in Weaned Pigs Challenged by Rotavirus
Authors: Yu Wei , Xiao Xuechun , Chen Daiwen , Yu Bing , He Jun , Zheng Ping , Yu Jie , Luo Junqiu , Luo Yuheng , Yan Hui , Yi Xuewu , Wang Jianping , Wang Huifen , Wang Quyuan , Mao Xiangbing
Published: September 2022

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether dietary lactose supplementation relieves rotavirus (RV)-induced diarrhea and gut dysfunction. Thirty-six crossbred weaned piglets were randomly allocated into three groups and fed diets containing 0, 4%, and 6% lactose for 20 days. On Day 15, half of the piglets in each group were orally infused with RV. RV infection impaired growth performance; induced severe diarrhea; decreased serum D-xylose concentration and morphology and sIgA level of jejunal mucosa; downregulated MUC1, MUC2, occludin, Bcl-2, IL-4, pBD3, pBD2, and pBD1 mRNA expression of jejunal mucosa and/or mesenteric lymph nodes; upregulated Bax, caspase-3, IL-2, IFN-γ, and IFN-β mRNA expression of jejunal mucosa and/or mesenteric lymph nodes; and damaged microbiota and metabolites of cecal digesta in weaned piglets (p < 0.05). Dietary lactose supplementation improved nutrient digestibility and growth performance and relieved the negative influence of RV challenge on intestinal barrier function, mRNA expression of cytokines, and host defense peptides of jejunal mucosa and/or mesenteric lymph nodes in weaned piglets (p < 0.05). Dietary administration of 6% lactose tended to relieve diarrhea (p = 0.07). These results suggest that lactose in feed increases growth performance and has a tendency to alleviate RV-induced diarrhea, derived from the improvement of nutrient utilization, gut barrier function, and immunity.
Impact of Raised without Antibiotics Measures on Antimicrobial Resistance and Prevalence of Pathogens in Sow Barns
Authors: Alvarado Alvin C. , Chekabab Samuel M. , Predicala Bernardo Z. , Korber Darren R.
Published: September 2022

The growing concern over the emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in animal production as a result of extensive and inappropriate antibiotic use has prompted many swine farmers to raise their animals without antibiotics (RWA). In this study, the impact of implementing an RWA production approach in sow barns on actual on-farm antibiotic use, the emergence of AMR, and the abundance of pathogens was investigated. Over a 13-month period, fecal and nasopharynx samples were collected at 3-month intervals from sows raised in RWA barns and sows in conventional barns using antibiotics in accordance with the new regulations (non-RWA). Whole genome sequencing (WGS) was used to determine the prevalence of AMR and the presence of pathogens in those samples. Records of all drug use from the 13-month longitudinal study indicated a significant reduction in antimicrobial usage in sows from RWA barns compared to conventional non-RWA barns. Antifolates were commonly administered to non-RWA sows, whereas β-lactams were widely used to treat sows in RWA barns. Metagenomic analyses demonstrated an increased abundance of pathogenic Actinobacteria, Firmicutes, and Proteobacteria in the nasopharynx microbiome of RWA sows relative to non-RWA sows. However, WGS analyses revealed that the nasal microbiome of sows raised under RWA production exhibited a significant increase in the frequency of resistance genes coding for β-lactams, MDR, and tetracycline.
Biomarkers of Oxidative Stress in Acute and Chronic Diseases
Authors: Massaccesi Luca , Balistreri Carmela Rita
Published: September 2022

Molecular biomarkers consent to apply individual decisions in the complex management of both acute or chronic diseases, and their identification constitutes a fundamental phase for achieving the important object to develop personalized therapies [...]