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24 pages, 5129 KiB  
Article
Forced to Reimagine: Reflections on the Experience of Leicester Vaughan College Community Benefit Society
by Miriam Gill and Lucy Faire
Educ. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 93; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci15010093 - 15 Jan 2025
Viewed by 350
Abstract
This article outlines the experiences of two tutors from an adult education department shut down by its higher education institution (HEI). It is a chronological reflective account of how members of the department responded to their exclusion by re-establishing their provision as a [...] Read more.
This article outlines the experiences of two tutors from an adult education department shut down by its higher education institution (HEI). It is a chronological reflective account of how members of the department responded to their exclusion by re-establishing their provision as a cooperative community benefit society (CBS), Leicester Vaughan College (LVC). This response was not only an expression of resistance, but it was an antidote to the neoliberal university system, which all too often undervalues adult education, marginalises adult learners or excludes their education altogether. As educators and students together, the aim was to use our understanding of the processes and practices of higher adult education to reconstruct this provision in a collaborative and cooperative way. Our experience before and after ‘expulsion’, and the reimagination of an alternative future in contrast to the dominant neoliberal model, shines a light on the wider difficulties and inequalities in the HE sector. As we searched (and continue to search) for a ‘happy ending’ with LVC, the multiple hurdles experienced exemplify the difficulties of trying to create a space for a new paradigm within hostile, shifting structures shaped by neoliberal regulatory and economic imperatives. This article finishes by setting out a context in which adult HE and institutions like LVC could flourish. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Reimagining Lifelong Learning in Higher Education)
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17 pages, 277 KiB  
Article
Oral Frailty and Its Relationship with Physical Frailty in Older Adults: A Longitudinal Study Using the Oral Frailty Five-Item Checklist
by Hiroshi Kusunoki, Yoko Hasegawa, Yasuyuki Nagasawa, Kensaku Shojima, Hiromitsu Yamazaki, Takara Mori, Shotaro Tsuji, Yosuke Wada, Kayoko Tamaki, Koutatsu Nagai, Ryota Matsuzawa, Hiromitsu Kishimoto, Hideo Shimizu and Ken Shinmura
Nutrients 2025, 17(1), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17010017 - 24 Dec 2024
Viewed by 546
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Oral frailty, first identified in Japan in 2014, refers to a state between healthy oral function and severe decline, marked by minor issues, such as tooth loss and chewing difficulties. The oral frailty five-item checklist (OF-5) enables non-dental professionals to evaluate oral [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Oral frailty, first identified in Japan in 2014, refers to a state between healthy oral function and severe decline, marked by minor issues, such as tooth loss and chewing difficulties. The oral frailty five-item checklist (OF-5) enables non-dental professionals to evaluate oral frailty using five key indicators: remaining teeth count, chewing difficulties, swallowing difficulties, dry mouth, and articulatory oral skills. Limited studies exist. Methods: This study examined the relationship between oral and physical frailties in older adults and assessed the prognosis of physical frailty using the OF-5. Participants aged ≥65 years were recruited from the frail elderly in the Sasayama–Tamba area, Hyogo, Japan, and their physical function was assessed in terms of grip strength, walking speed, and skeletal muscle mass. Blood markers, such as cystatin C, an indicator of renal function, were also analyzed. Results: A cross-sectional analysis indicated that oral frailty was correlated with reduced muscle mass, walking speed, and physical function. Women had lower hemoglobin and albumin levels and a greater prevalence of frailty than men. Longitudinal analysis revealed that initial OF-5 scores predicted increased physical frailty after 2–3 years, especially in those with higher baseline scores. The OF-5 was a significant factor for frailty progression in both sexes. Conclusions: These results suggest that early detection of oral frailty via the OF-5 may be useful in preventing the progression of overall frailty in older adults. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Geriatric Nutrition)
21 pages, 4816 KiB  
Article
Deep Learning-Based Postural Asymmetry Detection Through Pressure Mat
by Iker Azurmendi, Manuel Gonzalez, Gustavo García, Ekaitz Zulueta and Elena Martín
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(24), 12050; https://doi.org/10.3390/app142412050 - 23 Dec 2024
Viewed by 507
Abstract
Deep learning, a subfield of artificial intelligence that uses neural networks with multiple layers, is rapidly changing healthcare. Its ability to analyze large datasets and extract relevant information makes it a powerful tool for improving diagnosis, treatment, and disease management. The integration of [...] Read more.
Deep learning, a subfield of artificial intelligence that uses neural networks with multiple layers, is rapidly changing healthcare. Its ability to analyze large datasets and extract relevant information makes it a powerful tool for improving diagnosis, treatment, and disease management. The integration of DL with pressure mats—which are devices that use pressure sensors to continuously and non-invasively monitor the interaction between patients and the contact surface—is a promising application. These pressure platforms generate data that can be very useful for detecting postural anomalies. In this paper we will discuss the application of deep learning algorithms in the analysis of pressure data for the detection of postural asymmetries in 139 patients aged 3 to 20 years. We investigated several main tasks: patient classification, hemibody segmentation, recognition of specific body parts, and generation of automated clinical reports. For this purpose, convolutional neural networks in their classification and regression modalities, the object detection algorithm YOLOv8, and the open language model LLaMa3 were used. Our results demonstrated high accuracy in all tasks: classification achieved 100% accuracy; hemibody division obtained an MAE of approximately 7; and object detection had an average accuracy of 70%. These results demonstrate the potential of this approach for monitoring postural and motor disabilities. By enabling personalized patient care, our methodology contributes to improved clinical outcomes and healthcare delivery. To our best knowledge, this is the first study that combines pressure images with multiple deep learning algorithms for the detection and assessment of postural disorders and motor disabilities in this group of patients. Full article
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26 pages, 23809 KiB  
Article
A Navigation Algorithm Based on the Reinforcement Learning Reward System and Optimised with Genetic Algorithm
by Mireya Cabezas-Olivenza, Ekaitz Zulueta, Iker Azurmendi-Marquinez, Unai Fernandez-Gamiz and Danel Rico-Melgosa
Mathematics 2024, 12(24), 4030; https://doi.org/10.3390/math12244030 - 22 Dec 2024
Viewed by 469
Abstract
Regarding autonomous vehicle navigation, reinforcement learning is a technique that has demonstrated significant results. Nevertheless, it is a technique with a high number of parameters that need to be optimised without prior information, and correctly performing this is a complicated task. In this [...] Read more.
Regarding autonomous vehicle navigation, reinforcement learning is a technique that has demonstrated significant results. Nevertheless, it is a technique with a high number of parameters that need to be optimised without prior information, and correctly performing this is a complicated task. In this research study, a system based on the principles of reinforcement learning, specifically on the concept of rewards, is presented. A mathematical expression was proposed to control the vehicle’s direction based on its position, the obstacles in the environment and the destination. In this equation proposal, there was only one unknown parameter that regulated the degree of the action to be taken, and this was optimised through the genetic algorithm. In this way, a less computationally expensive navigation algorithm was presented, as it avoided the use of neural networks. The controller’s time to obtain the navigation instructions was around 6.201·10−4 s. This algorithm is an efficient and accurate system which manages not to collide with obstacles and to reach the destination from any position. Moreover, in most cases, it has been found that the proposed navigations are also optimal. Full article
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21 pages, 2267 KiB  
Article
Multifunctional, Novel Formulation for Repairing Photoaged and Sun-Damaged Skin: Insights from In Vitro, Ex Vivo, and In Vivo Studies
by María Moneo-Sánchez, Nagore de Pablo, Leire Arana-Pascual, Itziar Beitia, Sandra Benito-Cid and Raúl Pérez-González
Cosmetics 2024, 11(6), 224; https://doi.org/10.3390/cosmetics11060224 - 17 Dec 2024
Viewed by 898
Abstract
Prolonged sun exposure disrupts the skin’s structural, mechanical, and functional properties, accelerating aging and contributing to skin disorders. To counteract these effects, we developed a formulation containing potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, moisturizing, and reparative ingredients to protect and repair sun-damaged skin. The efficacy of [...] Read more.
Prolonged sun exposure disrupts the skin’s structural, mechanical, and functional properties, accelerating aging and contributing to skin disorders. To counteract these effects, we developed a formulation containing potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, moisturizing, and reparative ingredients to protect and repair sun-damaged skin. The efficacy of the formulation was evaluated through in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo studies. Results demonstrated that the formulation reduced oxidative stress and suppressed the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-8 (IL-8), as well as lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) secretion, in a photodamaged skin model, nearly reaching levels observed in undamaged skin. It also restored collagen levels, improving structural integrity. In vivo, no adverse reactions were observed when used for 28 or 56 days. The formulation improved skin hydration by up to 46%, reduced transepidermal water loss by 20%, increased luminosity by 70%, and reduced hyperpigmented spots by 14%. It also enhanced skin firmness and elasticity by 30% and reduced wrinkle volume and density by up to 53% and 19%, respectively. These findings demonstrate that the formulation’s active ingredients effectively target the pathways altered by UV exposure, offering considerable potential for preventing and reversing sun-induced skin damage while improving both the appearance and functionality of the skin. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Skin Anti-Aging Strategies)
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15 pages, 1633 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of Sustainability and Cost Effectiveness of Using LCO2 as Cutting Fluid in Industrial Hard-Turning Installations
by Iñigo Llanos, Iker Urresti Espilla, David Bilbatua and Oier Zelaieta
Sustainability 2024, 16(22), 10078; https://doi.org/10.3390/su162210078 - 19 Nov 2024
Viewed by 711
Abstract
Conventional oil-based emulsions used in hard-turning processes present significant environmental and economic challenges, including high waste generation and hazardous disposal requirements. In response, cryogenic CO2 cooling has gained attention as a sustainable alternative, offering improved productivity, reduced tool wear and a diminished [...] Read more.
Conventional oil-based emulsions used in hard-turning processes present significant environmental and economic challenges, including high waste generation and hazardous disposal requirements. In response, cryogenic CO2 cooling has gained attention as a sustainable alternative, offering improved productivity, reduced tool wear and a diminished environmental footprint. While technical advances have been reported, the industrial adoption of cryogenic cooling is still limited due to the lack of clear data on its actual viability. This paper moves beyond the analysis of the technical performance of cryogenic CO2 cooling analyzed in previous works to conduct a detailed evaluation of its environmental and economic performance when machining roller bearing components with pCBN tools on a hard-turning installation. Utilizing Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Return-on-Investment (ROI) methodologies, this study compares cryogenic CO2 with traditional cooling methods, quantitatively assessing the environmental impact and economic viability across different manufacturing scenarios. The findings reveal that cryogenic cooling can outperform conventional cooling regarding both environmental impact and cost-effectiveness thanks to the tool life improvements provided by cryogenic cooling, specifically in cases where high tool consumption is generated during hard-turning operations. These results provide critical insights for selecting cooling strategies during the design phase of industrial turnkey projects, highlighting the potential of cryogenic CO2 as a superior solution for sustainable and efficient hard-turning operations. Full article
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8 pages, 562 KiB  
Article
Use of the Micro-Agar Larval Development Test to Differentiate Resistant and Susceptible Cooperia spp. Isolates in Cattle Within the Context of Parasite Population Replacement
by Mariana Elisabet Fuentes, Mercedes Lloberas, Gisele Bernat, Eliana Riva, Milagros Junco and Silvina Fernández
Pathogens 2024, 13(11), 952; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13110952 - 31 Oct 2024
Viewed by 739
Abstract
Gastrointestinal nematode infections are a global concern in grazing cattle production systems, even more so due to the widespread problem of anthelmintic resistance. In response, early anthelmintic resistance detection methods, such as the micro-agar larval development test (MALDT), and parasite management strategies, such [...] Read more.
Gastrointestinal nematode infections are a global concern in grazing cattle production systems, even more so due to the widespread problem of anthelmintic resistance. In response, early anthelmintic resistance detection methods, such as the micro-agar larval development test (MALDT), and parasite management strategies, such as the replacement of resistant parasite populations with susceptible ones, have been developed. This study aimed to characterize ivermectin-susceptible and -resistant isolates of Cooperia spp. using MALDT in the context of a parasite population replacement strategy. Three Cooperia spp. field isolates were evaluated: a susceptible one (Coop-S), a resistant one (Coop-R), and a post-replacement one (Coop-PR). The MALDT was performed in 96-well plates with 12 known concentrations of eprinomectin (EPR) on an agar base. Each test was performed in quadruplicate. Data analysis included nonlinear regression to determine EC50, EC90, and EC99 values, resistance ratios (RRs), and R2. The results showed clear differentiation between the isolates, with RR values of 5.78 and 1.28 for Coop-R and Coop-PR, respectively, compared to Coop-S. The MALDT proved to be a reliable tool for differentiating ivermectin-susceptible from ivermectin-resistant isolates of Cooperia spp., and future evaluations of this test in mixed nematode populations are recommended for routine diagnosis of anthelmintic resistance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pathogenesis, Epidemiology, and Drug Resistance in Nematode Parasites)
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9 pages, 5356 KiB  
Communication
A New Source of Inoculum for Stemphylium vesicarium: Consequences for the Management of Brown Spot of Pear
by Federico Cavina, Serena Baiocco, Lorenzo Tomba, Fabio Ravaglia, Christian Moretti, Rosario Raso, Valentino Giorgio Rettore, Martina Parrilli, Gianfranco Pradolesi and Riccardo Bugiani
Agronomy 2024, 14(11), 2522; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14112522 - 27 Oct 2024
Viewed by 849
Abstract
Brown spot of pear (BSP), caused by Stemphylium vesicarium, is one of the most dangerous pear fungal diseases, being responsible for huge losses in production. Currently, in order to increase its containment, chemical control is implemented in conjunction with agronomic techniques able [...] Read more.
Brown spot of pear (BSP), caused by Stemphylium vesicarium, is one of the most dangerous pear fungal diseases, being responsible for huge losses in production. Currently, in order to increase its containment, chemical control is implemented in conjunction with agronomic techniques able to reduce BSP inoculum sources (e.g., orchard grass sanitation, litter removal or application of biocontrol agents). Regardless, despite the introduction of agronomic practices, the complete control of the disease is still rarely possible, which suggests that other sources of S. vesicarium inoculum that are currently neglected may be involved. The aim of this study is to investigate the possible wintering forms of Pleospora allii/S. vesicarium on pear wood and whether any spore-forming productions (conidial or ascosporic) might infect the green tissues of the plant in the following spring. Symptomatic fragments of woody tissue from a commercial pear orchard (in Ferrara, Emilia-Romagna, Italy) with a high BSP pressure (~40% incidence) were analysed. The results prove that pseudothecia and the maturation of ascospores of P. allii also develop on one-year-old branch cankers of pear trees, thus representing an additional source of inoculum. In conclusion, the pruning of affected branches and removal of relative residues should be preventatively performed in order to improve BSP management and control. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pest and Disease Management)
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13 pages, 3008 KiB  
Article
Pasture vs. Coop: Biomarker Insights into Free-Range and Conventional Broilers
by Constantinos Tellis, Ioannis Sarrigeorgiou, Gerasimina Tsinti, Apostolos Patsias, Evgenia Fotou, Vasiliki Moulasioti, Dimitra Kyriakou, Maria Papadami, Vassilios Moussis, Maria-Eleni Boti, Vasileios Tsiouris, Vassilios Tsikaris, Demokritos Tsoukatos and Peggy Lymberi
Animals 2024, 14(21), 3070; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14213070 - 24 Oct 2024
Viewed by 737
Abstract
Identifying blood components influenced by rearing systems that serve as biomarkers to distinguish free-range from conventional broilers can improve animal health, welfare, and productivity. The current study aimed to evaluate specific blood parameters related to immune function and tissue stress, as biomarkers to [...] Read more.
Identifying blood components influenced by rearing systems that serve as biomarkers to distinguish free-range from conventional broilers can improve animal health, welfare, and productivity. The current study aimed to evaluate specific blood parameters related to immune function and tissue stress, as biomarkers to differentiate free-range, slow-growing Sasso broilers from conventionally raised fast-growing Ross 308 broilers. For this purpose, serum IgM Natural Antibodies (NAbs) targeting actin and lipopolysaccharides (LPS) as key immunological parameters of natural immunity, along with creatine phosphokinase (CPK) and other significant stress and tissue-related biochemical parameters, were measured in a total of 300 broilers (150 per group) raised under industrial scale rearing systems, by standard methodology. Our results showed significantly higher IgM-NAb levels to both antigens and lower CPK and Aspartate Aminotransferase levels in Sasso broilers compared to Ross 308 broilers (p < 0.001). Combination of anti-LPS IgM-NAbs and CPK levels, as the most potent biomarker candidates, achieved 90% sensitivity and 84% specificity in distinguishing Ross 308 from Sasso broilers. In conclusion, the combined evaluation of these blood biomarkers can effectively discriminate conventional from free-range broilers analyzed herein, with potent novel applications in the poultry industry making it a promising, cost effective and easy-to-use, diagnostic tool. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Poultry)
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32 pages, 722 KiB  
Article
Promoting Mental Health and Well-Being Among Adolescent Young Carers in Europe: A Cross-National Randomized Controlled Trial Study
by Valentina Hlebec, Irena Bolko, Giulia Casu, Lennart Magnusson, Licia Boccaletti, Renske Hoefman, Alice De Boer, Feylyn Lewis, Agnes Leu, Francesco Barbabella, Rosita Brolin, Sara Santini, Marco Socci, Barbara D’Amen, Daniel Phelps, Tamara Bouwman, Nynke de Jong, Elena Alder, Vicky Morgan, Tatjana Rakar, Saul Becker and Elizabeth Hansonadd Show full author list remove Hide full author list
Healthcare 2024, 12(21), 2124; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12212124 - 24 Oct 2024
Viewed by 3195
Abstract
Background/Objectives: This cross-national study focuses on adolescents who provide care and support to family members or significant others. Current evidence regarding their mental health and solutions to strengthen it is limited and mostly available in a few countries. The aim of this study [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: This cross-national study focuses on adolescents who provide care and support to family members or significant others. Current evidence regarding their mental health and solutions to strengthen it is limited and mostly available in a few countries. The aim of this study is to evaluate the results of a primary prevention intervention for improving the mental health and well-being of adolescent young carers (AYCs) aged 15–17 years in six European countries. The intervention was based on a psychoeducational program and tools adapted from the Discoverer, Noticer, Advisor, and Values (DNA-V) model. Methods: We designed a randomized controlled trial with 217 AYCs participating in the study, either in the intervention or control group. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected via questionnaires at baseline, post-intervention, and a 3-month follow up. Results: The results were mixed, as positive improvements in primary (i.e., psychological well-being and skills) and secondary (school/training/work functioning) outcomes were shown by the experimental group but, in most cases, they were not statistically significant. The qualitative data supported positive claims about the intervention and its appropriateness for AYCs. Conclusions: The study implementation during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic forced the consortium to adapt the design and may have influenced the results. More long-term studies are needed to assess similar mental health programs with this hard-to-reach target group. Full article
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28 pages, 700 KiB  
Article
Measuring the Digital Maturity of Organisations in the People Care Sector
by Nikola Kadoić, Teresa Monllau Jaques and Jaime Lacueva Rueda
Sustainability 2024, 16(20), 9053; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16209053 - 19 Oct 2024
Viewed by 998
Abstract
This study focuses on the organisations in the people care sector (OPCs), encompassing a broad spectrum of activities ranging from essential healthcare services to various aspects of daily living support. Sustainability in OPCs encompasses multiple dimensions aimed at ensuring the long-term viability, efficiency, [...] Read more.
This study focuses on the organisations in the people care sector (OPCs), encompassing a broad spectrum of activities ranging from essential healthcare services to various aspects of daily living support. Sustainability in OPCs encompasses multiple dimensions aimed at ensuring the long-term viability, efficiency, and effectiveness of services provided to vulnerable populations. Given the critical role of digital technologies in enhancing the operational efficiency within such organisations and their sustainability, it becomes imperative to gauge their digital maturity levels. To establish a robust framework for assessing the digital maturity of OPCs, we identified 29 factors grouped into five clusters that encapsulate various dimensions of digital readiness that directly influence the sustainability of OPCs. We employed the SNAP methodology to ascertain the relative significance of these factors and clusters. Furthermore, each factor was articulated through the lens of digital maturity using the rubrics approach, offering a nuanced understanding of the OPCs’ digital readiness across four distinct levels. Experts from the people care sector, IT, and multi-criteria decision-making contributed invaluable input during the instrument’s development phase. Theoretical validation of the instrument involved focus group discussions with domain experts, while practical validation entailed applying the instrument to real-world case studies. The instrument enables OPCs to assess their digital maturity levels, providing valuable strategic planning and decision-making insights. Furthermore, the instrument can serve as a roadmap for identifying areas ripe for digital transformation and weak points, facilitating continuous improvement and future readiness. The quantification of the digital maturity of the OPC enables the OPCs to rank at the cluster maturity level and overall maturity level. Overall, this instrument represents a significant step towards enhancing digital maturity assessment within the OPC sector, contributing to its evolution and adaptation in the digital age, and enabling the OPCs’ sustainability. Full article
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19 pages, 818 KiB  
Article
Exploring Eye, Hair, and Skin Pigmentation in a Spanish Population: Insights from Hirisplex-S Predictions
by Belén Navarro-López, Miriam Baeta, Victoria Suárez-Ulloa, Rubén Martos-Fernández, Olatz Moreno-López, Begoña Martínez-Jarreta, Susana Jiménez, Iñigo Olalde and Marian M. de Pancorbo
Genes 2024, 15(10), 1330; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes15101330 - 16 Oct 2024
Viewed by 1104
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Understanding and predicting human pigmentation traits is crucial for individual identification. Genome-wide association studies have revealed numerous pigmentation-associated SNPs, indicating genetic overlap among pigmentation traits and offering the potential to develop predictive models without the need for analyzing large numbers of SNPs. [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Understanding and predicting human pigmentation traits is crucial for individual identification. Genome-wide association studies have revealed numerous pigmentation-associated SNPs, indicating genetic overlap among pigmentation traits and offering the potential to develop predictive models without the need for analyzing large numbers of SNPs. Methods: In this study, we assessed the performance of the HIrisPlex-S system, which predicts eye, hair, and skin color, on 412 individuals from the Spanish population. Model performance was calculated using metrics including accuracy, area under the curve, sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive value. Results: Our results showed high prediction accuracies (70% to 97%) for blue and brown eyes, brown hair, and intermediate skin. However, challenges arose with the remaining categories. The model had difficulty distinguishing between intermediate eye colors and similar shades of hair and exhibited a significant percentage of individuals with incorrectly predicted dark and pale skin, emphasizing the importance of careful interpretation of final predictions. Future studies considering quantitative pigmentation may achieve more accurate predictions by not relying on categories. Furthermore, our findings suggested that not all previously established SNPs showed a significant association with pigmentation in our population. For instance, the number of markers used for eye color prediction could be reduced to four while still maintaining reasonable predictive accuracy within our population. Conclusions: Overall, our results suggest that it may be possible to reduce the number of SNPs used in some cases without compromising accuracy. However, further validation in larger and more diverse populations is essential to draw firm conclusions and make broader generalizations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Genetics and Genomics)
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18 pages, 5341 KiB  
Article
Prevalence and Diversity of Plant Parasitic Nematodes in Irish Peatlands
by Anusha Pulavarty, Tilman Klappauf, Ankit Singh, Patricia Molero Molina, Anique Godjo, Bastiaan Molleman, Douglas McMillan and Thomais Kakouli-Duarte
Diversity 2024, 16(10), 639; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16100639 - 15 Oct 2024
Viewed by 1079
Abstract
The prevalence of plant parasitic nematodes (PPN) in the Irish peatlands was investigated in five different peatland habitats—raised bog, cutover scrub/woodlands, fens and peat grasslands, which were further sub-categorised into fourteen different sub-habitats. Within the raised bog habitat were healthy bog hummock (HBH), [...] Read more.
The prevalence of plant parasitic nematodes (PPN) in the Irish peatlands was investigated in five different peatland habitats—raised bog, cutover scrub/woodlands, fens and peat grasslands, which were further sub-categorised into fourteen different sub-habitats. Within the raised bog habitat were healthy bog hummock (HBH), healthy bog lawn (HBL), degraded bog hummock (DBH) and degraded bog lawn (DBL) and the fen habitats were fen peat (FP) and rich fen peat (R-FP). Cutover scrub or woodland habitat included cutover scrub rewetted (C-RW), cutover scrub non-rewetted (C-NRW), woodlands rewetted (W-RW) and woodlands non-rewetted (W-NRW). Grassland included wasted peat (WP), rough grazing (RG-I) and improved fen peat grassland (IFPG-RW and IFPG-NRW). Soil samples from peatlands were all collected between July and December 2023 when the temperature ranged from 12 to 20 °C. One half of each sample was used for molecular nematode analysis and the other half for morphological identification of nematodes. For the morphological identification, a specific nematode extraction protocol was optimised for peatland soils, and the extracted nematodes were fixed onto slides to be studied under a high-power light microscope. Subsequently, the other part of the soil was processed to isolate total DNA, from which the 18S rRNA gene was sequenced for the identification of nematode taxa. The extracted DNA was also used for randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) fingerprinting analysis to determine banding patterns that could classify different bog habitats based on PPN random primers. Compared to that in the climax habitats (HBH, HBL, DBH, DBL, FP, R-FP), PPN prevalence was recorded as being higher in grasslands (WP, RG-I, IFPG-RW and IFPG-NRW) and scrub/woodland ecosystems (C-RW, C-NRW, W-RW, W-NRW). The results indicate that nematode populations are different across the various bog habitats. Emerging and current quarantine PPN belonging to the families Pratylenchidae, Meloidogynidae, Anguinidae and Heteroderidae were noted to be above the threshold limits mentioned under EPPO guidelines, in grassland and wooded peatland habitats. Future actions for PPN management may need to be considered, along with the likelihood that these PPN might impact future paludiculture and other crops and trees growing in nearby agricultural lands. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biodiversity Conservation)
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19 pages, 1827 KiB  
Article
Enhancing Earth and Environmental Science Undergraduate Students’ Perception of Geographic Information Systems through Short Clips
by Irene DeFelipe, Paula Sofía Jerez-Longres, Irene Pérez-Cáceres, Pablo Valenzuela, Jorge Pedro Galve, Sonia Rodríguez-Ruano, Zaida Ortega, Luna Adrados, José Manuel Bernabé, José Crespo, Romina Marisel Montes, Lola Pereira and Daniel Ballesteros
Educ. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 1026; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14091026 - 19 Sep 2024
Viewed by 1264
Abstract
Geographic Information Systems (GISs) cover a wide range of Earth and environmental science disciplines that have become essential for spatial data management, easing the digital transformation needs of our society. Despite the usefulness of GISs, they remain underutilised in academia, and many students [...] Read more.
Geographic Information Systems (GISs) cover a wide range of Earth and environmental science disciplines that have become essential for spatial data management, easing the digital transformation needs of our society. Despite the usefulness of GISs, they remain underutilised in academia, and many students do not understand the possibilities that these tools offer. To familiarise university students with the potential of GISs, we designed 11 short clips (less than 5 min long) recorded by Earth scientists with diverse backgrounds who shared their work experience with GISs to solve real-world problems. Through these short clips, we emphasised not only the multidisciplinary uses of GISs but also provided professional references for undergraduate students, including societal aspects such as gender equality, national and international mobility, private-to-public-sector transitioning, and different family circumstances. As a result, the students expressed their interest in the applications of GISs, many of which were completely new to them, highlighting the potential of GISs in terms of entrepreneurship and their usefulness in mitigating global change. Thus, we were able to transfer knowledge from research to university education and foster spatial data management skills in Earth science. Full article
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17 pages, 3531 KiB  
Article
Sustainable Growth through Thai Native Chicken Farming: Lessons from Rural Communities
by Wipas Loengbudnark, Vibuntita Chankitisakul, Monchai Duangjinda and Wuttigrai Boonkum
Sustainability 2024, 16(17), 7811; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16177811 - 7 Sep 2024
Viewed by 1666
Abstract
Thai native chickens hold significant value in rural communities due to their adaptability and suitability for local rearing conditions. However, there are challenges in the commercial raising of these chickens. This study aimed to evaluate and promote the potential of Thai native chickens [...] Read more.
Thai native chickens hold significant value in rural communities due to their adaptability and suitability for local rearing conditions. However, there are challenges in the commercial raising of these chickens. This study aimed to evaluate and promote the potential of Thai native chickens (Pradu Hang Dum) for commercial purposes and the development of sustainable native chicken farming. Out of 110 interested farmers, 88 met preliminary conditions and 62 were well-prepared and willing to comply with project conditions. Some farmers were disqualified for not understanding the project conditions or having inadequately prepared chicken coops. The survival rate of native chickens provided to farmers through the project was 52%. Among the surviving birds, 40% were male and 60% were female. The most common causes of death in the project were sickness, accidents, and fighting. The average body weights and average daily gains at different ages were significantly different among farm groups. The average egg production per hatch per hen was 13 ± 2.4 eggs. The highest egg production was in the good farms compared to moderate and poor farms. Better farm management led to higher egg production. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that effective farm management significantly enhances the productivity of Thai native chickens, highlighting their potential as an income-generating activity for rural communities. While challenges such as sickness and accidents impact survival rates, the findings suggest that improved management practices can lead to better production outcomes. Full article
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