bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Can repelling electrons form bound pairs
Authors: Claro F , Robles P
Published: October 2021

Electrons are elementary particles that repel each other due to their same electric charge. In certain cases however, the effect of quantum coherence in an appropriate environment may act to overcome this natural tendency, making electrons behave as if there was an attraction between them and form bound pairs that move as a unit. We discuss a simple case, where this unexpected binding is mediated by a rigid crystalline environment. The paper is addressed to students and teachers with an elementary knowledge of quantum, and solid state, physics.
Supersolid phase induced by artificial gauge fields
Authors: Zhang Dian-Cheng , Feng Shi-Ping , Yang Shi-Jie
Published: October 2021

The ground state phases of ultracold bosons in a ladder optical lattice subjected to a magnetic field are studied. With the inhomogeneous Gutzwiller variational method, we find that a modulated supersolid phase appears as the magnetic flux increases. The dependence of the supersolid period on the magnetic flux satisfies the commensurate conditions of integer times of 2π/ϕ.
Solar-plasma reactors for CO2 conversion
Authors: Trelles Juan Pablo
Published: October 2021

The conversion of carbon dioxide (CO2) for the synthesis of fuels and chemicals utilizing renewable energy, such as solar irradiation or electricity from renewable energy sources, can lead to economic development and CO2 emissions mitigation. Solar-plasma processes aim to exploit the sustainability benefits of solar thermochemical methods and the versatility and efficiency of plasmachemical approaches. The rationale, design, and characterization of solar-plasma reactors for CO2 conversion is presented. Solar-plasma chemical conversion processes can be classified by the relative magnitudes of input solar and electric power as either solar-enhanced plasmachemical (SEP) or plasma-enhanced solar thermochemical (PES). The implementation and evaluation of two types of solar-plasma reactors, namely solar-microwave plasma aimed at SEP chemical conversion processes and solar-gliding arc discharge for PES processes, are reviewed and contrasted. Strategies for the advancement of solar-plasma reactors for chemical synthesis are discussed.
Modeling oxidised polypyrrole in the condensed phase with a novel force field
Authors: Abere Yoseph , Helmick Greg , Blaisten-Barojas Estela
Published: October 2021

A novel model potential is developed for simulating oxidised oligopyrroles in condensed phases. The force field is a coarse grained model that represents the pyrrole monomers as planar rigid bodies with fixed charge and dipole moment and the chlorine dopants as point atomic charges. The analytic function contains 17 adjustable parameters that are initially fitted on a database of small structures calculated within all-electron density functional theory. A subsequent potential function refinement is pursued with a battery of condensed phase isothermal–isobaric Metropolis Monte Carlo in-silico simulations at ambient conditions with the goal of implementing a hybrid parametrization protocol enabling agreement with experimentally known thermodynamic properties of oxidised polypyrrole. The condensed system is composed of oligomers containing 12 monomers with a 1:3 dopant-to-monomer concentration. The final set of force field optimised parameters yields an equilibrium density of the condensed system at ambient conditions in excellent agreement with oxidised polypyrrole samples synthesised in wet-laboratories.
Effect of void in deformation and damage mechanism of single crystal copper: a molecular dynamics study
Authors: Rajput Ashutosh , Paul Surajit Kumar
Published: October 2021

The current study investigates the deformation and damage mechanism of single crystal copper in the presence of a void located at the copper cell center. Tensile and compressive deformations are conducted in two loading modes, uniaxial and triaxial. Alteration in mechanical properties is observed due to the presence of void in different deformation modes. In uniaxial deformation, a smooth gradient in stress and strain distribution are evident before dislocation nucleation, i.e. in the elastic domain. However, inhomogeneity in stress and strain distribution are noted during the plastic deformation, i.e. after dislocations emission. Stress concentration remains high near the void surface ahead of the dislocation emission. Stress and strain concentration play a substantials role in nucleating defects (i.e. dislocation and stacking fault) from the void surface. Moreover, the void growth in tension and void shrinking in compression are found due to the emission/shrink of dislocations from the void surface. Consequently, an effective rate of dislocation emission enhances the growth rate of the void, as it happens in triaxial tensile deformation.
A new colorimetric assay for sensitive detection of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency based on silver nanoparticles
Authors: Behzadifar Shakila , Hosseini Morteza , Mohammadnejad Javad , Asiabanha Majid
Published: October 2021

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) is the principal enzyme in the pentose phosphate pathway that plays a fundamental role in the production of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate, which is very important in preventing the oxidation of cells, especially red blood cells. This enzyme deficiency was associated with many disorders, the most common of which were hemolysis episodes. In the last decade, nanoparticles have been used to design optical and electronic sensors due to their unique properties. This report presents a new colorimetric method that used silver nanoparticles to detect glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity directly. The glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase detection mechanism was based on an aggregation of silver nanoparticles, leading to increased nanoparticle size, which causes discoloration. In the presence of the enzyme, the color of the solution was yellow, and when the enzyme was not present, the color of the solution was grayish. Utilizing this method, colorimetric sensing of glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase was gained with a detection limit of 0.009 U ml−1and a linear range of 0–16.0 U ml−1. In this way, the presence or absence of the enzyme can be easily detected with the naked eye during one step.
Investigation of optical absorption enhancement of plasmonic configuration by graphene on LiNbO3-SiO2 structure
Authors: Liu Kaijing , Lu Fei , Xu Yuhang , Ma Changdong
Published: October 2021

A novel plasmonic structure is demonstrated by combining graphene with a planar LiNbO3 thin layer, which is simple and easy to fabricate compared to the complex design of general graphene surface plasmons devices. Graphene from the chemical vapor deposition is investigated and characterized to be a continuous and uniform monolayer or fewlayer. LiNbO3 capped by graphene layer show an extraordinary absorption enhancement in an attenuated total reflection (ATR) measurement at a wide bandwidth of 500–4000 cm−1, which can be explained by resonance absorption resulting from the coupling of graphene surface plasmons with optical modes of LiNbO3-SiO2 Fabry–Perot cavity and LiNbO3 planar waveguide. The simulation results are generally consistent with the ATR experimental results. The absorption spectra versus temperature of this plasmonic configuration is also investigated, which show that increasing the testing temperature not only highlights the atomic vibrational peaks of graphene, but also enhances the absorption at several characteristic absorption frequencies due to the enhanced coupling between the surface plamons excitations and the optical modes.
Electroreduction of CO2 to ethanol by electrochemically deposited Cu-lignin complexes on Ni foam electrodes
Authors: Chanda Debabrata , Tufa Ramato Ashu , Aili David , Basu Suddhasatwa
Published: October 2021

A low cost, non-toxic and highly selective catalyst based on a Cu-lignin molecular complex is developed for CO2 electroreduction to ethanol. Ni foam (NF), Cu–Ni foam (Cu–NF) and Cu-lignin-Ni foam (Cu-lignin-NF) were prepared by a facile and reproducible electrochemical deposition method. The electrochemical CO2 reduction activity of Cu-lignin-NF was found to be higher than Cu–NF. A maximum faradaic efficiency of 23.2% with current density of 22.5 mA cm−2 was obtained for Cu-lignin-NF at −0.80 V (versus RHE) in 0.1 M Na2SO4 towards ethanol production. The enhancement of catalytic performance is attributed to the growth of the number of active sites and the change of oxidation states of Cu and NF due to the presence of lignin.
Use of plasma electron spectroscopy method to detect hydrocarbons, alcohols, and ammonia in nonlocal plasma of short glow discharge
Authors: Zhou Chen , Yao Jingfeng , Saifutdinov Almaz I , Kudryavtsev Anatoly A , Yuan Chengxun , Zhou Zhongxiang
Published: October 2021

The method of plasma electron spectroscopy (PLES) is further developed for the analysis of impurities of organic molecules and ammonia in this work. In particular, for the first time the PLES method was used to detect the hydrocarbons impurities: alkanes (methane) and alkenes (ethylene), as well as their derivatives alcohols (ethanol), radicals, and ammonia. As the energies of the registered characteristic electrons are different for different chemical compounds, an important advantage of the PLES method is the fact that it allows simultaneous (in one measurement) registration of various impurities. This work presents a prototype of a PLES-gas analyzer based on nonlocal plasma of negative glow of a short glow discharge in helium.
Effect of an inserted Al2O3 passivation layer for atomic layer deposited HfO2 on indium phosphide
Authors: Xu Qian , Ding Yao-Xin , Zheng Zhi-Wei , Ying Lei-Ying , Zhang Bao-Ping
Published: October 2021

In this study, we demonstrate indium phosphide (InP) metal–oxide–semiconductor capacitors (MOSCAPs) with single HfO2 and stacked HfO2/Al2O3 dielectrics. Based on these capacitors, the effect of an inserted Al2O3 passivation layer with various thicknesses on the properties of InP MOSCAPs was further statistically investigated. By inserting a 2 nm thick Al2O3 passivation layer between high-κ HfO2 and the InP substrate, the characteristics including the frequency dispersion, leakage current and interface trap density (D
it) were effectively improved, which could be attributed to the large bandgap of Al2O3 that suppressed substrate element diffusion and reduced oxidation of the InP substrate. A low D
it of ∼3.8 × 1011 cm−2 eV−1 that was comparable to that of previously reported InP MOSCAPs was achieved. However, with the thickness of Al2O3 decreasing from 2 to 1 nm, the frequency dispersion and D
it were slightly increased, because such an ultrathin Al2O3 layer could not effectively suppress the diffusion and may induce substrate oxidation after annealing. The present results show that the incorporation of an Al2O3 passivation layer with suitable thickness has great promise in future high-performance InP device applications.
Fundamental insight in the design of multifilament MgB2 joint for boosting the persistent-mode operation
Authors: Kim Su-Hun , Patel Dipak , Maeda Minoru , Kim Minhee , Lee Se-Hee , Choi Seyong , Kim Jung Ho
Published: October 2021

Persistent-mode operation is a key feature of magnetic resonance image systems to improve the required field stability. The superconducting joint is known to be beneficial for reducing all the resistant components in an electrically closed-circuit. The joint technique of magnesium diboride (MgB2) multifilamentary wire, however, is the main obstacle to the use of magnet in practical applications. In response, herein, we designed and developed a unique configuration of superconducting joint to further enhance the interconnection of exposed cores between two 18-multifilamentary wires. It was confirmed that developed joint samples achieved high critical current similar to a non-jointed wire. The proposed joint technique was directly applied to the MgB2 single-turn coil and MgB2 magnet for estimating a joint property through persistent-mode operation. This work provides fundamental insights into the design of persistent-mode MgB2 magnets to boost magnetic resonance image systems.
Free swimming of a squid-inspired axisymmetric system through jet propulsion
Authors: Bi Xiaobo , Zhu Qiang
Published: October 2021

An axisymmetric fluid-structure interaction model based on the immersed-boundary approach is developed to study the self-propelled locomotion of a squid-inspired swimmer in relatively low Reynolds numbers (

O

(

1

0

2

)

). Through cyclic deformation, the swimmer generates intermittent jet flow, which, together with the added-mass effect associated with the body deformation, provides thrust. Through a control volume analysis we are able to determine the jet-related thrust. By adding it to the added-mass-related thrust we separate the net thrust on the body from the drag effect due to forward motion, so that the propulsion efficiency in free swimming is found. This numerical algorithm and thrust–drag decomposition method are used to study the dynamics of the bio-inspired locomotion system in different conditions, whereby the performance is characterized by the aforementioned propulsion efficiency as well as the conventionally defined cost of transport.
Agricultural water saving through technologies: a zombie idea
Authors: Pérez-Blanco C Dionisio , Loch Adam , Ward Frank , Perry Chris , Adamson David
Published: October 2021

A zombie idea is one that has been repeatedly refuted by analysis and evidence, and should have died, but clings to life for reasons that are difficult to understand without further investigation. The perception that investments in modern irrigation systems automatically save water constitutes a zombie idea. On face value, most would accept that modernizing irrigation systems makes sense: agriculture represents 70% of global water withdrawals while physical irrigation efficiencies range between 25% and 50% worldwide—that is, most of the water entering the irrigation system never makes it to the targeted crop. However, the impacts of modern irrigation systems are complex, and as we show, usually have the opposite effect to that intended through altered cropping and water application decisions by farmers, that aggravate water scarcity. This paper investigates how this zombie idea forms; why it persists, even when proven wrong by scientific evidence; and how to overcome it.
Improved predictive performance of cyanobacterial blooms using a hybrid statistical and deep-learning method
Authors: Li Hu , Qin Chengxin , He Weiqi , Sun Fu , Du Pengfei
Published: October 2021

Cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms (CyanoHABs) threaten ecosystem functioning and human health at both regional and global levels, and this threat is likely to become more frequent and severe under climate change. Predictive information can help local water managers to alleviate or manage the adverse effects posed by CyanoHABs. Previous works have led to various approaches for predicting cyanobacteria abundance by feeding various environmental variables into statistical models or neural networks. However, these models alone may have limited predictive performance owing to their inability to capture extreme situations. In this paper, we consider the possibility of a hybrid approach that leverages the merits of these methods by integrating a statistical model with a deep-learning model. In particular, the autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) and long short-term memory (LSTM) were used in tandem to better capture temporal patterns of highly dynamic observations. Results show that the proposed ARIMA-LSTM model exhibited the promising potential to outperform the state-of-the-art baseline models for CyanoHAB prediction in highly variable time-series observations, characterized by nonstationarity and imbalance. The predictive error of the mean absolute error and root mean square error, compared with the best baseline model, were largely reduced by 12.4% and 15.5%, respectively. This study demonstrates the potential for the hybrid model to assist in cyanobacterial risk assessment and management, especially in shallow and eutrophic waters.
Interaction between sources and the superposition principle in interference phenomena
Authors: Welti R
Published: October 2021

In the explanations of the double slit experiment it is usually assumed that the superposition of the diffracted waves by two separate slits (one open and another closed) is the same as superimposing the diffracted waves when both slits are open at the same time. This naïve use of the superposition principle is generally not valid in either classical electromagnetism or quantum mechanics. As we will see, the diffraction diagram of one of the slits is altered when the other is open and when the slits are closer, the interaction between them is greater. In this work we will analyse the interaction between different types of sources (antennas, loudspeakers and, of course, slits) and we will show how this interaction explains the apparent anomalies in energy conservation and also the recent results of Young’s interference that show that the total diffracted intensity is reduced or increased depending on the distance between the slits. We also make a brief comment on the contributions of our work to the supposed looped trajectories of energy in interference phenomena.
Information geometry of the space of probability measures and barycenter maps
Authors: Itoh Mitsuhiro , Satoh Hiroyasu
Published: October 2021

In this article, we present recent developments of information geometry, namely, geometry of the Fisher metric, dualistic structures, and divergences on the space of probability measures, particularly the theory of geodesics of the Fisher metric. Moreover, we consider several facts concerning the barycenter of probability measures on the ideal boundary of a Hadamard manifold from a viewpoint of the information geometry.
Perspectives on the development of antibody-drug conjugates targeting ROR1 for hematological and solid cancers
Authors: Peng Haiyong
Published: October 2021

Antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs) are targeted therapeutics generated by conjugation of cytotoxic small molecules to monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) via chemical linkers. Due to their selective delivery of toxic payloads to antigen-positive cancer cells, ADCs demonstrate wider therapeutic indexes compared with conventional chemotherapy. After decades of intensive research and development, significant advances have been made in the field, leading to a total of 10 U.S. food and drug administration (FDA)-approved ADCs to treat cancer patients. Currently, ~80 ADCs targeting different antigens are under clinical evaluation for treatment of either hematological or solid malignancies. Notably, three ADCs targeting the same oncofetal protein, receptor tyrosine kinase like orphan receptor 1 (ROR1), have attracted considerable attention when they were acquired or licensed successively in the fourth quarter of 2020 by three major pharmaceutical companies. Apparently, ROR1 has emerged as an attractive target for cancer therapy. Since all the components of ADCs, including the antibody, linker and payload, as well as the conjugation method, play critical roles in ADC’s efficacy and performance, their choice and combination will determine how far they can be advanced. This review summarizes the design and development of current anti-ROR1 ADCs and highlights an emerging trend to target ROR1 for cancer therapy.
From Pests to Keystone Species: Ecosystem Influences and Human Perceptions of Harvester Ants (Pogonomyrmex,Veromessor, andMessorspp.)
Authors: Uhey Derek A , Hofstetter Richard W
Published: October 2021

Harvester ants (Latreille) (Formicidae: Hymenoptera) have traditionally been labeled as pests within their native ranges from perceived effects on crop production and rangeland productivity. Yet, modern research casts doubt on many of these perceived detrimental effects and instead suggests that harvester ants act as keystone species that largely benefit both ecosystems and human activities. Through nest engineering and trophic interactions (such as seed harvesting and predation), harvester ants have considerable direct and indirect effects on community structure and ecosystem functioning. Here we summarize the ecological roles of harvester ants and review their services and disservices to ecosystems and human activities. In doing so, we help clarify perceived keystone and pest roles of harvester ants and their implications for rangeland management. We find the numerous keystone roles of harvester ants to be well-supported compared to perceived pest roles. We also highlight areas where further research into their roles in natural and managed systems is needed.
Comparison of the Analysis of Respirable Crystalline Silica in Workplace Air by Direct-on-Filter Methods using X-ray Diffraction and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Ichikawa Akemi , Volpato John , O’Donnell Gregory E , Mazereeuw Martin
Published: October 2021

A comparison of the analysis of respirable crystalline silica direct-on-filter methods using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy was undertaken using 253 real workplace air samples from road construction and tunnelling, coal mining, and kitchen benchtop manufacturing in Australia. Using pure α-quartz standards, XRD and FT-IR direct-on-filter analyses produced identical test results, however, the real workplace samples showed a clear discrepancy between FT-IR and XRD results with on average a 9% positive bias of the FT-IR results. The cause of the positive bias was due to matrix interferences which was confirmed by using synthetic mixture air samples. Approximately a third of the data by direct-on-filter method using FT-IR was assessed to be invalid based on the peak height ratio criterion due to excessive interferences and weight overload limitations. The XRD method showed better results due to less interference from the common matrices. XRD could handle up to twice the sample loading and at higher loadings up to 7 mg when a correction was applied. It was also able to achieve a lower limit of detection of 2 µg filter−1 when a slower scan condition was utilized.
Critical Race Pedagogy for More Effective and Inclusive World Language Teaching
Authors: Anya Uju
Published: October 2021

To address racial inequity and the exclusion of African Americans in applied linguistics, second-language acquisition, and world language (WL) education, our field must reckon with social justice problems of racism and anti-Blackness. Theoretical frameworks of critical race theory (CRT) and critical race pedagogy (CRP) elucidate how such injustices are perpetuated, plus, propose solutions for them. This article discusses racism and anti-Blackness in WL curriculum, materials, and instructional practices. It presents a post-hoc CRT analysis of findings from two studies: (i) an ethnographic study examining Spanish curriculum and instructional practices at two minority serving postsecondary institutions and (ii) a participatory action research collaboration with Spanish instructors examining curriculum at a predominantly white institution—both studies linked by how they reveal endemic racism and anti-Blackness in WL programmes. Ultimately, this article addresses how African Americans can more authentically and successfully participate in WL programmes. It introduces to the field a proposal of CRP for more effective WL teaching to promote practices in antiracism, equity-mindedness, and inclusivity for greater retention and success of Black students.
1703 The Walking Thread – What Happens to Fistula-In-Ano Patients Who Are Lost to Follow Up? A Service Improvement Study
Authors: Ellen M , Wilson B , Anderson D
Published: October 2021

Aim

1/3 of idiopathic cryptoglandular abscesses can result in fistula-in-ano. Current practice is to incise and drain primary abscesses and safety net for patients to return as necessary. Known fistula patients will be appointed for Examination Under Anaesthetic at 6-12 weeks.Is this best management or do they become “elective emergencies”?

Method

We performed a retrospective audit of management of fistula-in-ano over 4 years. We used a precollected data set of Cryptoglandular abscesses, excluding inflammatory, radiation or malignant causes and collected data for patients lost to follow up, including presentation, fistula diagnosed at first or subsequent attendance, number of operations, number of attendances and seton placement.

Results

512 patients were operated on for cryptoglandular abscess causing fistula-in-ano between 2013 and 2017. 10% (N = 50) were lost to follow up. 32 had documented follow up plans, that were not fulfilled (eg elective theatre not booked). Of these, 18 were elective attendances, 14 emergency. 24 of the 32 had a Seton sited prior to being lost to follow up

Conclusions

The various presentations (emergency, elective, clinic or day surgery) and long waiting lists mean many of these patients are presenting as emergencies still awaiting follow up. Many are lost to follow-up, with Setons in situ. We propose a fortnightly hot-clinic system, registrar led to assess and manage these patients. This would provide an elective clinic to allow single point of access to fistula-in-ano patients ensuring prompt follow up and reduction in unnecessary EUA, as well as improving senior colorectal trainees exposure to perianal disease and its management.
10 COVID-19 and Changing Perceptions Towards Postgraduate Surgical Training in United Kingdom
Authors: Golsharifi M , Hamidi A
Published: October 2021

Aim

The evolution of the current coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic continues to impact global healthcare systems on an unprecedented scale. Here, we use data from a local NHS trust within the United Kingdom (UK) to examine the perception of medical students and foundation doctors towards postgraduate surgical training.

Method

This tri-centric cross-sectional study was carried out via a survey disseminated within the East Sussex Healthcare NHS trust, King’s College Hospital, and King’s College London Medical School. The survey was active for 14 days (from 15th March 2020 to 28th March 2020), comprising a total of 40 foundation doctors and 10 medical students.

Results

A total of 50 responses were received across five hospitals and their associated medical school. A decrease of 10% and 25% was observed in interest to pursue surgery in medical students and foundation doctors, respectively, following the outbreak of COVID-19. Over 40% of foundation doctors holding postgraduate surgical training offers were not accepting them, and of those, over 40% would not consider reapplying to surgery. There was a drop in interest across a select set of specialities, and this was more obvious where aerosol-generating-procedures was a common occurrence.

Conclusions

These results highlight the need for a more efficient and effective response to address the immediate situation, as well as a robust contingency plan to avert the repercussions the surgical field could face.
101 Paediatric Burns and The Coronavirus Pandemic: Were Children Staying Safe in Lockdown or Did The Virus Increase Burns Admissions?
Authors: Noshirwani A , Raraty C
Published: October 2021

Aim

We aimed to identify if there was a change in the number of paediatric burns during the coronavirus pandemic and whether there was a change in the management of said burns.

Method

Data on ten parameters for all burns assessed on the Burns Unit at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital from April to May of 2020 was collected and compared to the same period from 2019.

Results

There was a decrease in the number of patients presenting to hospital, down to 24 from 32 in 2019. Scald injuries increased to 67% compared to 44%, while all other mechanisms of injuries decreased. Fewer very small burns (<1% TBSA) presented to hospital (28%) compared to 50% the previous year. There was an overall increase in the presentation of burns greater than 1% TBSA (1-5% TBSA increased to 47% from 31%; 5-10% TBSA increased to 19% from 3%; 10-20% TBSA increased to 6% from 3%). A comparable rate of burns was managed conservatively as an outpatient (89% vs 88%), admitted for dressing changes (81% vs 78%), and managed surgically (11% vs 13%).

Conclusions

The coronavirus pandemic resulted in a decrease in the number of children experiencing burns, while at the same time causing an increase in the number of scald injuries. Our data showed no significant change in the management of burns indicating that regardless of the pandemic, paediatric burns were managed appropriately as per national guidelines.
Contact With Young Children Increases the Risk of Respiratory Infection in Older Adults in Europe—the RESCEU Study
Authors: Korsten Koos , Adriaenssens Niels , Coenen Samuel , Butler Chris C , Pirçon Jean Yves , Verheij Theo J M , Bont Louis J , Wildenbeest Joanne G ,   RESCEU Investigators, Korsten Koos , Adriaenssens Niels , Coenen Samuel , Butler Christopher , Pirçon Jean Yves , Verheij Theo , Bont Louis , Wildenbeest Joanne , Nair Harish , Campbell Harry , Beutels Philippe , Openshaw Peter , Pollard Andrew , Molero Eva , Meijer Adam , Fischer Thea K , van den Berge Maarten , Giaquinto Carlo , Abram Michael , Aerssens Jeroen , Swanson Kena , Gruselle Olivier , Leach Amanda , Stoszek Sonia , Demont Clarisse , Gallichan Scott , Pavot Vincent , Vernhes Charlotte , Kumar Veena
Published: October 2021

Background

Knowledge about how older adults get a respiratory infection is crucial for planning preventive strategies. We aimed to determine how contact with young children living outside of the household affects the risk of acute respiratory tract infections (ARTI) in community-dwelling older adults.

Methods

This study is part of the European RESCEU older adult study. Weekly surveillance was performed to detect ARTI throughout 2 winter seasons (2017-2018, 2018-2019). Child exposure, defined as having regular contact with children under 5 living outside of the subject’s household, was assessed at baseline. The average attributable fraction was calculated to determine the fraction of ARTI explained by exposure to these children.

Results

We prospectively established that 597/1006 (59%) participants experienced at least 1 ARTI. Child exposure increased the risk of all-cause ARTI (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.58; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.21 -2.08; P = .001). This risk was highest in those with the most frequent contact (aOR, 1.80; 95% CI, 1.23-2.63; P = .003). The average attributable fraction of child exposure explaining ARTI was 10% (95% CI, 5%-15%).

Conclusions

One of 10 ARTI in community-dwelling older adults is attributable to exposure to preschool children living outside of the household.

Clinical Trials Registration

NCT03621930.
PSII-15 Investigations of feeding preferences for common palatants in equine weanlings
Authors: Crowell Cierra N , Perry Erin B
Published: October 2021

Work in other species has demonstrated an impact of gestational exposure on flavor preferences. Although equine palatability preferences in mature horses have been identified, feeding behaviors in growing horses are not well documented. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of exposure to common palatants in utero on feeding preferences of weanlings. Stock-type weanlings (n = 4) weighing 225(±18.15) kg at 29(±2.55) weeks of age were used in a side-by-side comparison test with a divided feeding platform. Common palatants (apple and anise) were utilized throughout the broodmare gestational period. A novel palatant, peppermint, was withheld during gestation to identify impacts associated with neophobic tendencies. Treatments were offered once daily for three consecutive days across three periods (4 weeks apart) using a pelleted concentrate feed with an application rate of 0.375 mL/0.23 kg. Weanlings were allowed free access to the feeding platform with identical pans spaced 6” apart for 20 minutes. Treatment location within the feeding platform was changed daily to limit effects associated with side-eating. Data were measured as a Chi Square test of SAS using PROC FREQ statement with α ≤. 0.05. Despite gestational exposure to apple and anise, no preference was measured in palatability assessments including First Sniff (P = 0.29), First Consumed (P = 0.70), First Finished (P = 0.29). These data suggest that exposure in utero failed to elicit a preference for common palatants in weanling horses. Additionally, these data fail to demonstrate a neophobic effect for a novel palatant, peppermint.
PSX-B-15 Real-time quantitative PCR versus droplet digital PCR for measurement of peripheral blood leukocytes interferon-tau stimulated genes in beef cattle
Authors: de Melo Gabriela Dalmaso , Franco-Johannsen Gessica A , McAnnally Brooke , Cooke Reinaldo F , Pohler Ky G
Published: October 2021

We aimed to compare the abundance of interferon-tau stimulated genes (ISG) transcripts in peripheral blood leukocytes of artificially inseminated beef cows using real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) versus Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR). Multiparous Bos taurus beef cows (n = 7) were subjected to timed artificial insemination (TAI) on day 0. Pregnancy was determined by transrectal ultrasonography on days 26 and 30 post-TAI, and cows were classified as: pregnant (n=4; embryo detected on days 26 and 30) or non-pregnant (n = 3; no embryo detected). Coccygeal vein blood samples were collected on days 0, 15, 17, 19, 20 and 24 post-TAI. Leukocyte RNA was extracted from the buffy coat fraction using Trizol associated with the DirectZol-RNA kit and transcribed to cDNA. The abundance of ISG (ISG15 and MX2) was assessed by relative quantification to a reference gene (RPS9) using RT-qPCR and by absolute quantification using the QX100TM Droplet DigitalTM PCR System (Bio-rad Laboratories) according to manufacturer’s recommendations. Data were analyzed using PROC MIXED on SAS 9.4. For the RT-qPCR, pregnant cows had greater (P < 0.05) ISG15 and MX2 abundance compared to non-pregnant cows on days 20 (ISG15:0.11±0.1 vs. 0.01±0.001 and MX2:0.73±0.4 vs. 0.06±0.06) and 24 (ISG15:0.34±0.2 vs. 0.01±0.001 and MX2:0.77±0.2 vs. 0.13±0.04). For ddPCR, a greater ISG15 and MX2 copy numbers in pregnant cows was observed on days 15 (ISG15:129 vs. 44 copies/µl and MX2:33 vs. 10 copies/µl) and 20 (ISG15: 216 vs. 30 copies/µl and MX2: 44 vs. 7 copies/µl), and also on day 24 for ISG15 (32 vs. 7 copies/µl) compared to non-pregnant cows. In conclusion, ddPCR was able to detect an earlier expression of ISG in pregnant cows. Future studies are needed to enroll more animals and establish a suitable cutoff value using ddPCR, which could be less subjective for diagnosis as it does not require the use of a reference gene.
PSV-B-20 Effects of Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Fermentation Product (SCFP) postbiotic in labrador retrievers during exercise and transport stress
Authors: Varney Jessica L , Coon Craig N , Norton Sharon A
Published: October 2021

Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation product (SCFP) is a dietary postbiotic compound shown to support digestive health and immune function in several species. Two studies were performed to evaluate the effects of SCFP (Diamond V Mills, Inc.; Cedar Rapids, IA) in canines exposed to exercise and transport stress. In both studies, 36 Labrador Retrievers (18 males/18 females) >5y were used. Study 1 consisted of a 3-wk adaptation period followed by a 14-wk series of distance-defined running exercise regimens (DDER) with subjects randomly allocated to three groups of 0 mg/d SCFP, 250 mg/d SCFP, or 500 mg/d SCFP. Study 2 consisted of a 3-wk adaptation period followed by an 8 wk phase of DDER and a final, single transport stress event. Subjects were randomly allocated to two treatments of 0 mg/d SCFP and 250 mg/d SCFP. Parameters examined over the two studies included body composition, body weight, feed intake, activity, running speed, stool quality. The following serum biomarkers were also measured: saliva cortisol (CORT), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), c-reactive protein (CRP), creatine kinase (CK), haptoglobin (HAP), serum amyloid A (SAA), TNF-α, immunoglobulin E (IgE), and immunoglobulin G (IgG). Subjects fed SCFP exhibited numeric net increases in lean mass (Table 1), numeric increases in stool quality, and significantly higher activity during exercise (P < 0.05) vs CON (Table 2). The 500 mg/d SCFP group exhibited lower CK (P < 0.03), increased HAP (P < 0.001), increased SAA (P < 0.05), increased TNF-α (P < 0.007), increased CORT, improved TAC (P < 0.001), reduced TBARS (P < 0.01), IgE (P < 0.001) and IgG (P < 0.001), and increased CRP during transport (P < 0.001) (Table 3). These results demonstrate that Labrador Retrievers supplemented with SCFP may exhibit improved vitality, utilization of nutrients, immune function, and reduced cellular damage when subjected to exercise and transport stress.
PSV-B-24 Palatability assessment of graded levels of grain distillers dried yeast (GDDY) fed to healthy adult cats
Authors: Kilburn Logan , Jolly-Breithaupt Melissa L , Balk Derek , Aldrich Charles G
Published: October 2021

Traditionally, yeast products have been added to companion animal diets to improve palatability. Grain distillers dried yeast (GDDY), a coproduct from ethanol production which contains yeast, may be a viable option in pet food. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of increasing levels of GDDY in cat diets compared to soybean meal. The control diet contained 15% soybean meal (CON) and GDDY was exchanged for soybean meal at either 5%, 10%, or 15% (5G, 10G, 15G). For each test, experimental treatments were compared to the control. Twenty cats were presented two bowls each containing approximately 100g of diet once daily for 2 days. Cats were given diet access for 4 hours and bowl placement was reversed on the second day. Total food consumption and first choice preference were recorded for each cat. Individual intake ratios (IR) were calculated (intake of each diet/total intake) and first choice (FC) was analyzed with a Chi2 test. When comparing 5G to CON, the IR was 0.970 with FC of 30/40 occasions (P = 0.0016). The IR for 10G was 0.538 and FC was 18/40 with no difference from the CON (P = 0.5271). The IR for 15G was 0.590 and FC was 19/40 with no difference from the CON (P = 0.7518). Overall, these results suggest that cats may prefer GDDY over soybean meal, but preference may be influenced by inclusion level with the greatest impact observed at 5% and no detrimental impact at 10 or 15%.
PSVII-20 Optimization of intestinal permeability assays to study the degree of fasting in gut permeability of unweaned Angus-Holstein bull calves
Authors: Pisoni Lucía , Devant Maria , Blanch Marta , Pastor Jose J , Marti Sonia
Published: October 2021

In-vivo assessments of intestinal permeability can be expensive and time consuming. Additionally, the correct choice of test molecules to use and the optimum sampling time under fasting situations needs be optimized. Fifteen unweaned Angus-Holstein bull calves (44.1 ± 2.0 kg and 14.7 ± 0.63 d) were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 treatments: Control (CT; n = 5): no fasting; fasted during 9 h (FAS9; n = 5); and fasted during 19 h (FAS19; n = 5). All calves were fed 2.5 L of MR and treatments were applied on d -1. Chromium-EDTA (Cr-EDTA), lactulose and D-mannitol were administered orally before blood collection. Samples were taken on d -4 and -1 before fasting and on d 0 and 2, at 60, 120, 180, and 240 minutes. To choose the best test molecule, correlations between serum concentration of the test molecules were used. To decide the optimum sampling time, data from d 0 were used to calculate area under the curve, then data were analyzed with mixed models with fasting degree and sampling time as fixed effects. Correlation between Cr-EDTA and D-mannitol was r= 0.92 (R2=84%), and correlation between Cr-EDTA and lactulose was r= 0.86 (R2=75%). Differences in AUC of Cr-EDTA between CT and t fasting treatments were observed up to 120 min. Differences in AUC of Cr-EDTA between FAS9 and FAS19 were observed later at 240 min. To optimize the intestinal permeability test, the use of only one test molecule might be sufficient. The Cr-EDTA was proposed to optimize the methodology due to price and simplicity of the analysis. The optimum sampling time after Cr-EDTA administration was 120 min when comparing fasting and control, and 240 min when comparing different fasting degrees.
PSXI-16 Evaluation of supplementation strategies for beef cattle bale-grazing grass hay in Winter
Authors: Undi Michael , Sedivec Kevin K K
Published: October 2021

Methods of supplementing beef cows while bale grazing grass hay were investigated in a study conducted for four winters, from 2016 to 2019, at the Central Grasslands Research Extension Center near Streeter, ND. Starting in the fall of each year, cows were assigned to eight groups of similar total body weight (BW) and allowed to bale graze one of four bale grazing treatments as follows: a) grass hay, b) grass hay supplemented with alfalfa hay, c) grass hay supplemented with corn DDGS, and d) grass hay treated with a liquid supplement. Two-day body weights and body condition scores (BCS) were taken at the start and end of the study. Final BW were greater (P ≤ 0.05) when cows were supplemented with DDGS and least when cows were not supplemented. Average daily gains were influenced by method of supplementation and year (P ≤ 0.025). When winters were cold, supplementation with alfalfa hay or a liquid supplement were not adequate to maintain cows resulting with weight loss. Final BCS were greatest (P ≤ 0.05) when cows were supplemented with DDGS and lowest on grass hay. Similarly, change in BCS was greatest in DDGS-supplemented cows and lowest on grass hay only. Calf birth weights, weaning weights and daily gains were not influenced (P > 0.05) by method of supplementation. Results suggest that method of supplementation during bale grazing should be based on prevailing environmental conditions during winter. In severely cold winters, good-quality alfalfa hay or a liquid supplement are not adequate to meet requirements of pregnant beef cows in mid-gestation. Under such conditions, supplements such as corn DDGS will be needed to meet animal requirements. Supplementation with good-quality alfalfa hay or grass hay treated with a liquid supplement may be an option during mild winters.
PSXI-12 Effect of application rate of sodium lignosulfonate and propionic acid on in vitro digestibility and gas production kinetics of high moisture alfalfa hay mini bales
Authors: Killerby Marjorie A , Zamudio Diego , Ames Kaycee , Henry Darren D , Oppong Godloves M , Perkins Brian , Romero Juan Jose J
Published: October 2021

Our objective was to evaluate the effects of application rate (AR) of sodium lignosulfonate and propionic acid on the in vitro fermentation measures of high moisture alfalfa hay. Treatments (TRT) were sodium lignosulfonate (NaL) and Propionic Acid (PRP), which were applied at four AR: 0 (CON), 0.25, 0.5 and 1% (w/w fresh basis) to 20% bloom alfalfa hay (second cut) at 68.5% DM and packed into mini bales (10.3×10.8×13cm; 346 kg fresh/m3). The treated bales were stored for 33 days in open-top insulation boxes in a room kept at 22°C, after which they were dried, ground to 1 mm and incubated in vitro for 48hr with ruminal fluid from two ruminally cannulated Holstein cows in lactation. Gas kinetics were recorded using the Ankom RF Gas Production System. Data were analyzed as a randomized complete block design (5 blocks) with a 2 (TRT) x 4 (AR) factorial arrangement, and differences were declared at P ≤ 0.05. Both TRT increased apparent in vitro DM digestibility (DMD) at all AR relative to CON (54.3 vs 50.1 ± 1.20%, respectively). PRP increased asymptotic maximal (188.4) and rate of gas production (9.46) compared to NaL (179.7 ± 4.82 ml/g of incubated DM and 8.72 ± 0.45%/h, respectively). Total VFA were higher for PRP (117.5) vs NaL (114.8), and for both TRT at 1% relative to CON (118.9 vs. 113.8 ± 1.68mM). Acetate (A) was increased by both TRT at 1% (~73.5) and propionate (P) was increased by PRP at 1% (26.1) relative to CON (69.9 ± 1.10 and 24.2 ± 0.29mM, respectively), but the A:P ratio was higher for NaL at 1% (3.02) vs. CON (2.89 ± 0.04). In conclusion, NaL and PRP at 1% improved the rumen in vitro fermentation measures of high moisture alfalfa hay but PRP did so to a greater extent.
PSXI-14 Enteric methane and nitrogen emissions in cattle consuming tanniferous and non-tanniferous legumes, grass or a ration
Authors: Villalba Juan J , MacAdam Jennifer , Guevara Raul
Published: October 2021

Incorporation of legumes into forage systems has been a widely adopted strategy to increase pasture productivity and forage nutritive value, while reducing N inputs. In addition, some legumes contain beneficial chemicals like condensed tannins (CT), which could enhance the efficiency of energy and protein use in ruminants relative to other forages. We assessed (i) animal performance, (ii) methane emissions (SF6 technique), and (iii) concentration of nitrogen in urine and blood in cattle grazing a CT-containing legume (birdsfoot trefoil; BFT), a legume without tannins (cicer milkvetch; CMV), a grass (meadow brome; MB), or in cattle fed a total mixed ration (TMR). Fifteen Angus heifers were randomly assigned to one of three treatment pastures: (1) BFT, (2) CMV, and (3) MB. Each treatment had 5 spatial replications, randomly divided into three paddocks (64 × 57m), seeded with BFT, CMV or MB, and one heifer was assigned to each paddock. Five Angus heifers were randomly assigned to individual adjacent pens and received a TMR ration (25% of alfalfa hay, 25% corn silage and 50% chopped barley) during the same period. Response variables were analyzed as a split-plot design, with experimental units as the random factor and treatment as a fixed factor with day as the repeated measure. Cows grazing BFT (1.9% condensed tannins) or fed the TMR showed greater weight gains than cows grazing CMV or MB (P = 0.0006). Methane emissions did not differ among treatments (P > 0.05; Table 1). Blood urea nitrogen concentrations were similar in cows grazing BFT or CMV (P = 0.1202), but greater than in animals grazing MB or fed TMR (P < .0001). Urinary nitrogen concentrations were similar among treatments (P = 0.5266). These results suggest grazing tanniferous legumes enhanced BW gains with similar methane and urinary nitrogen emissions to grass and confinement alternatives and greater levels of production than grass or CMV.