bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of risperidone on psychotic symptoms and cognitive functions in 22q11.2 deletion syndrome: Results from a clinical trial
Authors: Latrèche Caren , Maeder Johanna , Mancini Valentina , Schneider Maude , Eliez Stephan
Published: October 2022

Background

Carriers of the 22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q11DS) have an enhanced risk of developing psychotic disorders. Full-blown psychosis is typically diagnosed by late adolescence/adulthood. However, cognitive decline is already apparent as early as childhood. Recent findings in mice show that antipsychotic medication administered during adolescence has a long-lasting neuroprotective effect. These findings offer promising evidence for implementing preventive treatment in humans at risk for psychosis.

Methods

We conducted a 12-week double-blind randomized controlled clinical trial with individuals with 22q11DS. Recruitment difficulties resulted in a final sample size of 13 participants (n = 6 treated with antipsychotics and n = 7 receiving placebo). We examined the response to treatment and assessed its short- and long-term effects on psychotic symptomatology using the Structured Interview for Psychosis-Risk Syndromes (SIPS) and cognitive measures.

Results

First, two treated participants discontinued treatment after experiencing adverse events. Second, treated participants showed a short-term improvement in 33.3% of the SIPS items, mainly those targeting negative symptoms. Third, reliable improvements in at least one measure of working memory and attention were respectively found in 83.3 and 66.7% of treated participants.

Conclusion

This is the first double-blind study to investigate the potential neuroprotective effect of antipsychotics in humans at risk for psychosis. Our preliminary results suggest that antipsychotic treatment may prevent long-term deterioration in clinical symptoms and cognitive skills. Yet, given the limited sample size, our findings need to be replicated in larger samples. To do so, future studies may rather adopt open-label or retrospective designs to ensure sufficient power.

Clinical trial registration

[www.ClinicalTrials.gov], identifier [NCT04639960].
Applying imaging mass spectrometry to define the N-glycan profiles of co-localized virus and immune cell infiltrates in post-COVID-19 infected lung autopsy tissues
Authors: Jones E. Ellen , Drake Richard R. , Dressman James W. , Parihar Vaunita , Stubler Rachel , Masters Elysia , Mercer Kelly E.
Published: October 2022

The current COVID-19 pandemic is characterized by a broad range of disease severity in patients. This diversity in clinical manifestations has complicated our understanding of the SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis and highlights the significance of an individual’s ability to mount an effective viral immune response. Glycosylation is a common post-translational modification occurring in complex organisms and is imperative for immune cell function. In this study, a combination approach with immunohistochemistry (IHC) and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization imaging mass spectrometry (MALDI-IMS) was utilized to determine the spatial distribution of N-glycans and immune cell populations in COVID-19 lung tissues. Tissues from seven SARS-CoV-2, PCR + donors were analyzed. Tissues represented a spectrum of time spent on ventilators which was reflected in their respective viral infection status and lung pathologies. N-glycan distributions in the MALDI-IMS images were then correlated with H&E staining and IHC of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, CD4, CD8, CD163 and CD11b. Distinct and shared N-glycan signatures were identified in association with specific immune cell types, and their co-localization with the viral spike protein. Additionally, we observed unique patterns of α2,3-linked and α2,6-linked sialic acid glycans that associated with both immune cell populations and fibrotic regions within the tissue architecture. N-glycan MALDI-IMS is an effective tool to further understand tissue-localized immune cell populations in response to emerging viral pathogens such as SARS-CoV-2.
Ropeginterferon-alfa2b resolves angina pectoris and reduces JAK2V617F in a patient with clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential: A case report
Authors: Egyed Miklos , Kajtar Bela , Foldesi Csaba , Skov Vibe , Kjær Lasse , Hasselbalch Hans Carl
Published: October 2022

The JAK2V617F mutation is an acquired somatic mutation, which is prevalent in patients with the Philadelphia-chromosome negative myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs). In these diseases the mutation gives rise to constitutive JAK-STAT signaling with increased blood cell counts and in vivo activation of neutrophils and platelets as well, which altogether contribute to a chronic inflammatory and thrombogenic state with a 12-fold increased risk of coronary disease. Treatment with recombinant interferon-alpha2 (rIFN) reduces the JAK2V617F allelic burden in a large number of MPN-patients. Long-term treatment with rIFN associates with low-burden JAK2V617F in a subset of patients and a decreased thrombosis risk as well. In the general population the JAK2V617F mutation has been shown to associate with ischemic heart disease and thrombosis. Based upon the above observations we herein report the first patient with CHIP-JAK2V617F, in whom treatment with rIFN resolved severe angina pectoris. During a short period off rIFN the symptoms reappeared to resolve in concert with reduction of JAK2V617F allele burden, when rIFN was reinstituted. The JAK2V617F mutation may be a novel therapeutic target to prohibit the development of cardiovascular diseases using rIFN either as monotherapy or in combination with potent anti-inflammatory agents.
External communication of automated shuttles: Results, experiences, and lessons learned from three European long-term research projects
Authors: Mirnig Alexander G. , Gärtner Magdalena , Fröhlich Peter , Wallner Vivien , Dahlman Anna Sjörs , Anund Anna , Pokorny Petr , Hagenzieker Marjan , Bjørnskau Torkel , Aasvik Ole , Demir Cansu , Sypniewski Jakub
Published: October 2022

Automated shuttles are already seeing deployment in many places across the world and have the potential to transform public mobility to be safer and more accessible. During the current transition phase from fully manual vehicles toward higher degrees of automation and resulting mixed traffic, there is a heightened need for additional communication or external indicators to comprehend automated vehicle actions for other road users. In this work, we present and discuss the results from seven studies (three preparatory and four main studies) conducted in three European countries aimed at investigating and providing a variety of such external communication solutions to facilitate the exchange of information between automated shuttles and other motorized and non-motorized road users.
Quantitative validation of a proposed technical sustainability competency model: A PLS-SEM approach
Authors: Mukhtar Nasiru , Kamin Yusri Bin , Saud Muhammad Sukri Bn
Published: October 2022

The demand to enact sustainability into higher education so as to optimistically shape the wider society and biosphere has been stressed by United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). One of the approaches is through rethinking and revising education at all levels to capture obvious forms of present and imminent societies on the development of sustainability knowledge, skills, perspectives and values. Several Higher Education Institutes (HEIs) have started to implement a number of facets to that effect, such as signing a climate commitment, working towards plan to make their campuses climate-neutral, and making sustainability their guiding principles and top priorities. However, analogous modifications to the curriculum are lagging behind. As a consequence, this study is set to quantitatively validate the technical sustainability competency model suitable for incorporation into Higher National Diploma electrical/electronic engineering curriculum in Nigeria. The authors used findings of their earlier work to develop a questionnaire for collecting data from 168 respondents in the study area, and consequently subject the data to descriptive and inferential statistics with the aid of PLS-SEM approach. The study discovered competencies suitable for incorporation into the curriculum. This includes cognitive skills in Eco-design and Life-Cycle Assessment; Research; Modeling, Simulation and Optimization; and Recycling/Renewable Resources. The study also found suitable psychomotor skills in Sustainable production, Use of modern engineering software tools, Operation/troubleshooting of electrical machines and devices, Communication/Information and Communication Technology, and waste-to-energy technology. Appropriate attitudes/values in Engineering ethics, Occupational safety and health, and Inter-generational equity are also discovered. This research is purely quantitative in nature carried out through administering questionnaires to respondents in one geo-political zone of the country. Thus, conclusions derived from these sources rely on the genuineness of the information provided by the participants. The findings offer accreditation body as well as curriculum developers in Nigerian polytechnics with a validated model of technical sustainability competences. This could be useful in the events of curriculum upgrade or renewal to integrate sustainability.
Predicting vertical ground reaction forces from 3D accelerometry using reservoir computers leads to accurate gait event detection
Authors: Bach Margit M. , Dominici Nadia , Daffertshofer Andreas
Published: October 2022

Accelerometers are low-cost measurement devices that can readily be used outside the lab. However, determining isolated gait events from accelerometer signals, especially foot-off events during running, is an open problem. We outline a two-step approach where machine learning serves to predict vertical ground reaction forces from accelerometer signals, followed by force-based event detection. We collected shank accelerometer signals and ground reaction forces from 21 adults during comfortable walking and running on an instrumented treadmill. We trained one common reservoir computer using segmented data using both walking and running data. Despite being trained on just a small number of strides, this reservoir computer predicted vertical ground reaction forces in continuous gait with high quality. The subsequent foot contact and foot off event detection proved highly accurate when compared to the gold standard based on co-registered ground reaction forces. Our proof-of-concept illustrates the capacity of combining accelerometry with machine learning for detecting isolated gait events irrespective of mode of locomotion.
A preoperative scoring system to predict the probability of laparoendoscopic single-site extracorporeal cystectomy in patients with benign ovarian cysts
Authors: Tan Wenwei , Deng Yuan , Deng Li , Tang Shuai , Yao Yuanyang , Wei Huanyu , Zhong Kuiyan , Wang Yanzhou
Published: October 2022

Objective

To develop a preoperative scoring system (PSS) to predict whether laparoendoscopic single-site extracorporeal (LESS-E) cystectomy can be performed in patients with benign ovarian cysts.

Method

We reviewed data on patients who underwent LESS cystectomy between August 2016 and October 2019 at the first Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University. The independent predictors of LESS-E cystectomy in patients with benign ovarian cysts were identified using multivariate logistic regression analyses. A nomogram for predicting LESS-E cystectomy in patients with benign ovarian cysts was developed, and to simplify the score, we establish a preoperative scoring system to guide the choice of surgical approach in patients with highly probable benign ovarian cysts.

Results

Our analysis showed that age, BMI, height and the diameter of ovarian cysts were independent predictors of LESS-E cystectomy. A nomogram was developed based on these four factors, which had a concordance index of 0.838 and R2 = 0.415. To simplify the score, the predicted indicators in the regression model were scored by dividing the beta coefficient by the absolute value of the minimum beta coefficient, and the sum of each predictor score established a PSS. In the total set, the selected cutoff value according to the maximum point of the Youden index was 8, and a preoperative score ≥ 8 identified patients undergoing LESS-E cystectomy with a positive predictive value of 67.4% and a negative predictive value of 88.6%.

Conclusion

A PSS to predict the chances of LESS-E cystectomy was established. This system could be helpful for selecting the appropriate surgical strategy for patients with benign ovarian cysts.
Genomic epidemiological analysis of mcr-1-harboring Escherichia coli collected from livestock settings in Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Phuong Thi Lan , Ngo Thi Hong Hanh , Tran Thi Mai Hung , Vu Thi Ngoc Bich , Le Viet Thanh , Tran Hai Anh , Pham Duy Thai , Nguyen Ha Thanh , Tran Dieu Linh , Nguyen Thi Phuong Lien , Nguyen Thi Thi Tho , Tran Nhu Duong , Dang Duc Anh , Bañuls Anne-Laure , Choisy Marc , van Doorn H. Rogier , Suzuki Masato , Tran Huy Hoang
Published: October 2022

Livestock has been implicated as a reservoir for antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes that can spread to humans when antimicrobials are used in animals for food production to treat clinical diseases and prevent and control common disease events. In Vietnam, mcr-1-harboring Escherichia coli (MCRPEC) strains have been isolated from humans, animals (chickens, pigs, and dogs) feces, flies, foods, and the environment (rainwater, well water, and irrigation water) in communities and from clinical specimens in hospitals. The relationship between levels of AMR in livestock and its occurrence in humans is complex and is driven by many factors. We conducted whole genome sequencing of MCRPEC to analyze the molecular epidemiological characteristics, history, and relatedness of 50 isolates obtained in 2019 from different reservoirs in farms and markets in Ha Nam province, Vietnam. 34 sequence types (STs) with 3 new STs were identified in multilocus sequence typing analysis: ST12945 and ST12946 from chicken feces, and ST12947 from flies. The AMR phenotypes of 50 MCRPEC isolates were as follows: ampicillin (100%, 50/50), cefotaxime (10%, 5/50), gentamicin (60%, 30/50), amikacin (8%, 4/50), meropenem (6%, 3/50), ceftazidime (18%, 9/50), colistin (24%, 12/50) and ciprofloxacin (80%, 40/50). All 50 MCRPEC isolates were identified as MDR. 100% (50/50) isolates carried AMR genes, ranging from 5 to 22 genes. The most prevalent plasmid replicon types carrying mcr-1 were IncP-1 (17/37, 45.9%), IncX4 (7/37, 18.9%), and IncHI2/IncHI2A (6/37, 16.2%). These data suggest that the epidemiology of the mcr-1 gene is mostly determined by plasmid spreading instead of clonal dissemination of MCRPE strains. The co-occurrence of several STs such as ST10, ST48, ST155, ST206, ST2705 in various sample types, joined to the higher prevalence of a few types of Inc plasmids, confirms the dissemination of the mcr-1 carrying plasmids in E. coli clones established in livestock. 5 over 8 STs identified in flies (ST206, ST2705, ST155, ST10, and ST48) suggested the fly contribution in the transmission of AMR bacteria in environments. These popular STs also occur in human samples and 100% of the human samples were positive for the mcr-1 gene.
Case study: Treating infraspinatus and supraspinatus trigger points and supraspinatus tendinopathy utilizing piezoelectric shockwave
Authors: Owen Heather
Published: October 2022

Two individual case studies demonstrate piezoelectric shockwave treatment for the resolution of a supraspinatus tendinopathy and supraspinatus and infraspinatus myofascial trigger points (MTPs)viamusculoskeletal ultrasound. This is the first documentation of improvement of both tendon and muscle fiber patterns in canine patients treated with piezoelectric shockwave. These cases validate the use of piezoelectric shockwave during the rehabilitation of common canine shoulder injuries.
Multi-Domain Based Computational Investigations on Advanced Unmanned Amphibious System for Surveillances in International Marine Borders
Authors: Raja Vijayanandh , Murugesan Ramesh , Rajendran Parvathy , Palaniappan Surya , AL-bonsrulah Hussein A. Z. , Jayaram Darshan Kumar , Al-Bahrani Mohammed
Published: October 2022

The conceptual design, component selection, and deployment experiments of an unmanned amphibious system (US) with a unique Becker in vertical stabilizer based on hydrodynamic research are included in this work. The use of USs is currently expanding significantly, and they are used for fish detection, oceanographic mapping, mining detection, monitoring marine life, and navy purposes. With a maximum forward speed of 30 m/s, the US’s hull is largely built with criteria for identifying and researching marine species. The significant lifetime decline of ocean species drives the deployment of unmanned vehicles for species monitoring from the water’s surface to 300 m below the surface. In addition, the medical team can help the species with health problems using this planned US because they have been identified. The conceptual design and estimated analytical equations encompass the fuselage, Becker rudder, propeller, and other sub-components. The locations of sensors, primarily used to locate mobile marine life, are also considered. A Becker rudder has been imposed to make sharp turns when the US is submerged in water. An advanced hydro propeller produces the propulsion with a 20 cm base diameter. Additionally, a piezoelectric patching-based energy extracting approach is used to the hydro-outside propeller’s surface. As a result, the electrical power generation for different lightweight materials is computed for the performance of US manoeuvrings. With the help of CATIA modelling of the intended USs and ANSYS Fluent hydrodynamic simulations, appropriate high-speed configurations are selected. Various stages of its mission profile, including the US in steady-level flight, the US in climb, and the US over the ocean surface, are subjected to computational simulations. Using an advanced computational technique and previously established experimental correlations, the reliability of these various computational solutions is examined and kept at an appropriate level. This US is highly suggested for marine-based real-time applications due to its acceptable output.
Optimization and Experiment on Key Parameters of Harvester for Auricularia auricula
Authors: Wang Mingyou , Wang Shuaiyang , Zhou Dehuan , Wang Jiaoling , Ding Tianhang , Ma Shixin , Song Weidong
Published: October 2022

The Auricularia auricula harvester has low harvesting productivity, low qualification rate, and high breakage rate, and the lack of research on key operating parameters has become a bottleneck restricting the large-scale development industry. In view of the difficulty of industrialization and promotion of Auricularia auricula harvesting equipment, this paper combines the research on the physical properties of Auricularia auricula, adopts a quadratic orthogonal rotation combination design test and response surface analysis method to carry out the optimization and test of the key parameters of the harvesting equipment of Auricularia auricula, including the speed of the tray fungus stick (A), the frequency of the harvesting knife (B), and the distance of the harvesting knife (C). Design-Expert software was used to analyse the data and investigate the influence of each parameter and its interaction on the harvesting productivity, qualified rate, and breakage rate. The test results show that the factors affecting the harvesting productivity are in order: (A) > (B) > (C); the factors affecting the harvest qualification rate are in order: (C) > (B) > (A); and the factors affecting the harvesting damage rate are in order: (C) > (B) > (A). The multi-objective optimization results show that the optimal parameter combination of the key parameters of the Auricularia auricula harvesting equipment operation is that the tray speed is 308.17 r/min, the harvesting knife frequency is 10.78 Hz, the spacing between the harvesting knives is 84.67 mm, the productivity is 363 bags/h, the pass rate is 94.26%, and the breakage rate is 2.40%. The field production application under this optimized parameter combination shows that the productivity of the Auricularia auricula mechanized harvester is 346 bars/h, the qualified rate is 91.43%, and the breakage rate is 3.19%. This study can provide a reference for improving the quality of Auricularia auricula harvesting equipment.
Rhodopseudomonas palustris PSB-06 Induces Plant Defense and Suppresses the Transmission of Tomato Chlorosis Virus by Bemisia tabaci MED
Authors: Lu Dingyihui , Yue Hao , Chen Jianbin , Wei Yan , Zhang Zhanhong , Zeng Jun , Zhang Zhuo , Zhou Xuguo , Zheng Limin , Gao Yang , Peng Jing , Shi Xiaobin , Liu Yong , Zhang Deyong
Published: October 2022

Tomato chlorosis virus (ToCV) is an RNA virus and a member of the Closteroviridae, Crinivirus, that is primarily vectored by Bemisia tabaci MED (B. tabaci MED). An outbreak of ToCV causes destructive damage to tomato plants and other solanaceous vegetables. Currently, ToCV has not been effectively controlled. Rhodopseudomonas palustris PSB-06 is a novel biological agent that is effective at controlling the tobacco mosaic virus (TMV). In this study, we investigated the role of PSB-06 in ToCV-infected tomato plants, and we studied the effects of PSB-06 on plant defense and plant photosynthetic pathways. Furthermore, the effect of PSB-06 on the acquisition and transmission of B. tabaci MED was determined. The results showed that compared with water-treated tomato plants, the contents of jasmonic acid increased, and the activities of catalase, peroxidase and superoxide dismutase increased significantly in tomato plants treated with PSB-06. The relative expression of genes involved in chlorophyll development, chlorophyll metabolism and photosynthesis also increased significantly. Simultaneously, treatment with PSB-06 reduced the acquisition and transmission of B. tabaci MED. We verified the hypothesis that PSB-06 is effective at controlling ToCV by promoting plant defense responses and reducing the amount of ToCV in tomato plants. We also confirmed the ability of B. tabaci MED to transmit ToCV. This study should help to control B. tabaci MED and reduce the spread of ToCV.
Estimation and Mapping of Actual and Potential Grassland Root Carbon Storage: A Case Study in the Altay Region, China
Authors: Li Fangzhen , Zhong Huaping , Ouyang Kehui , Zhao Xiaomin , Li Yuzhe
Published: October 2022

The actual root carbon storage (ARCS) and potential root carbon storage (PRCS) of grasslands play an important role in the global carbon balance and carbon neutralization. However, estimation of these indicators is difficult. In addition, their spatial patterns and crucial driving factors also require clarification. In this study, an approach for accurate estimation of ARCS and PRCS was developed incorporating a support vector machine model and high-accuracy surface modeling. Based on field data collected from Altay Prefecture in 2015, the estimation accuracy (R2) of root biomass in the 0–10, 10–20, and 20–30 cm soil layers of grassland were 0.73, 0.63, and 0.60, respectively. In addition, the spatial patterns of actual root carbon density (ARCD) and potential root carbon density (PRCD) were analyzed. The ARCD increased with the increase in elevation. High PRCD was located on hillsides with a gentle slope. The dominant interaction factors for the ARCD spatial pattern were temperature and precipitation, whereas the main interaction factors for the PRCD pattern were temperature and slope. The grassland ARCS and PRCS in Altay Prefecture were estimated to be 48.52 and 22.69 Tg C, respectively. We suggest there is considerable capacity to increase grassland ARCS in the study area.
Bio-Growth Stimulants Impact Seed Yield Products and Oil Composition of Chia
Authors: El-Desouky Heba S. , Zewail Reda M. Y. , Selim Dalia Abdel-Fattah H. , Baakdah Morooj M. , Johari Doaa Mahmoud , Elhakem Abeer , Mostafa Yasser S. , Alamri Saad , Sami Rokayya , El-Khayat Lamiaa A. S. , Islam Khandakar R. , Azab Enas S. , Yousry Mohamed Y. F.
Published: October 2022

Chia (Salvia hispanica L.) is a specialty crop capable of providing healthy food and metabolites. The goal of our study was to explore the possibility of expanding seed yield, oil production, and metabolites of chia in response to amino acid, barthenosteriode, and algae extract treatments used as bio-stimulants. The experiment was conducted in the field in a randomized complete block design with three repeats. The treatments were (1) control (spray only with water), (2) amino acids with nutrients (2 mL/L vs. 4 mL/L), (3) brassinolide (5 mL/L vs. 10 mL/L), and algae extract (2 mL/L vs. 4 mL/L). The growth and yield measurements of chia, such as chlorophyll, carotenoids, amino acids, indoles, phenols, macro- and micronutrients, carbohydrates, total oil, and fatty acids were analyzed. The chia plants sprayed with growth stimulant materials showed increases in most studied characteristics, particularly algae extract at 4 mL/L, followed by algae extract at 2 mL/L during the first and second seasons. Meanwhile, amino acids at 4 mL/L led to the third-highest increases in most cases. Conversely, all bio-stimulant treatments decreased total phenols in leaves (mg/100 g f.w.), especially seaweed at 4 mL/L, compared to high levels in the control during both seasons. Control plants showed the lowest levels of the measurements mentioned previously when scored by barthenosteriode at 5 mL/L during the first and second seasons. GLC for fixed oil in chia showed the recognition of four biocomponents. i.e., oleic, linoleic, palmitic, and α-α linolenic acids. The main biocomponent was α-α linolenic acid and reach (49.7 to 57.9%). The application of seaweed at 4 mL/L could be exploited to improve growth, seed crop, fixed oil production, chemicals and bio-constituents, especially the fixed oil composition of chia (Salvia hispanica L.) plant.
Attraction of Aulacophora foveicollis Lucas (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) to Host Plant Cucurbita maxima Duchesne (Cucurbitaceae) Volatiles
Authors: Bhowmik Biswanath , Chakraborti Udipta , Mandal Alivia , Paul Bishwajeet , Bhadra Kakali
Published: October 2022

The volatiles extracted by the dynamic headspace collection system from the undamaged and conspecific damaged Cucurbita maxima were analyzed by Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The olfactory responses of antennal chemosensilla by male and female A. foveicollis towards the plant volatiles were studied by electroantennography (EAG), while the behavioral responses were analyzed by olfactometer bioassay under laboratory conditions. Scanning electron microscopic study revealed the predominance of antennal olfactory sensilla of seven different types with four types of mechanosensilla. The antennae are sexually dimorphic, with differences in density of the chemosensillae present in the apical band region of segment IX, called the circumferential band, being higher in the females. Female antennae showed maximum peak amplitudes for 2-methyl phenol (at 10 mg/mL), followed by 1,4, dimethoxybenzene (at 5 mg/mL), while male antennae showed maximum amplitudes for heneicosane (at 5 mg/mL). Y-tube bioassays revealed maximum attractiveness towards 1,4, dimethoxy benzene that decreased progressively across heneicosane, pentacosane, tetradecane, ethyl benzene, D-limonene, nonadecane, eicosane, nonanal, decanal, α-pinene, phytol and benzaldehyde in females. However, male species were more responsive towards heneicosane, followed by 1,4 dimethoxybenzene, while the responses to pentacosane and tetradecane were equal, followed by equal responses to decanal, ethyl benzene and nonadecane, and thereafter, a progressively reducing response was observed towards α-pinene, eicosane, nonanal, D-limonene, phytol and benzaldehyde. The study assists in understanding the role of olfaction by A. foveicollis in the host plant Cucurbita maxima by listing compounds that act as potential kairomones for the beetle, and can be expected to facilitate development of an eco–friendly trap and/or by attracting the natural enemies for control of the pest.
Optimized Spectrophotometry Method for Starch Quantification
Authors: Bahdanovich Palina , Axelrod Kevin , Khlystov Andrey Y. , Samburova Vera
Published: October 2022

Starch is a polysaccharide that is abundantly found in nature and is generally used as an energy source and energy storage in many biological and environmental processes. Naturally, starch tends to be in miniscule amounts, creating a necessity for quantitative analysis of starch in low-concentration samples. Existing studies that are based on the spectrophotometric detection of starch using the colorful amylose–iodine complex lack a detailed description of the analytical procedure and important parameters. In the present study, this spectrophotometry method was optimized, tested, and applied to studying starch content of atmospheric bioaerosols such as pollen, fungi, bacteria, and algae, whose chemical composition is not well known. Different experimental parameters, including pH, iodine solution concentrations, and starch solution stability, were tested, and method detection limit (MDL) and limit of quantification (LOQ) were determined at 590 nm. It was found that the highest spectrophotometry signal for the same starch concentration occurs at pH 6.0, with an iodine reagent concentration of 0.2%. The MDL was determined to be 0.22 μg/mL, with an LOQ of 0.79 μg/mL. This optimized method was successfully tested on bioaerosols and can be used to determine starch content in low-concentration samples. Starch content in bioaerosols ranged from 0.45 ± 0.05 (in bacteria) to 4.3 ± 0.06 μg/mg (in fungi).
Modulation of Host Antiviral Innate Immunity by African Swine Fever Virus: A Review
Authors: He Wen-Rui , Yuan Jin , Ma Yu-He , Zhao Cheng-Yan , Yang Zhong-Yuan , Zhang Yuhang , Han Shichong , Wan Bo , Zhang Gai-Ping
Published: October 2022

African swine fever (ASF), caused by African swine fever virus (ASFV), is a highly contagious and fatal disease found in swine. However, the viral proteins and mechanisms responsible for immune evasion are poorly understood, which has severely hindered the development of vaccines. This review mainly focuses on studies involving the innate antiviral immune response of the host and summarizes the latest studies on ASFV genes involved in interferon (IFN) signaling and inflammatory responses. We analyzed the effects of candidate viral proteins on ASFV infection, replication and pathogenicity and identified potential molecular targets for novel ASFV vaccines. These efforts will contribute to the construction of novel vaccines and wonder therapeutics for ASF.
Short- and Long-Term Effects of Birth Weight and Neonatal Care in Pigs
Authors: Romero María , Calvo Luis , Morales José Ignacio , Rodríguez Ana Isabel , Escudero Rosa María , Olivares Álvaro , López-Bote Clemente
Published: October 2022

Swine industries worldwide face a loss in profit due to high piglet mortality, particularly as a consequence of the marked increase in prolificity and low birth weight (BW) of piglets. This research studied the effect of BW and individual neonatal care provided to piglets on preweaning mortality, and the long-term effects on growth and carcass and meat characteristics. Litters from seventy-one crossbred sows (PIC 34) were included in the trial. Half of each litter did not receive any further management, and the remaining half received the pre-established management protocol of early assistance of neonatal care (NC). Along lactation, the low-BW piglets (weight equal to or less than 1.1 kg) showed a threefold higher mortality rate than piglets of higher weights (32 vs. 10%; p = 0.001), with mortality particularly concentrated within the first week after birth. No effect of NC treatment was observed on mortality ratio caused by crushing, but a significant effect was observed in low-BW piglets who died of starvation (p < 0.01). The effect of NC on growth is dependent on BW, and heavier piglets at birth benefit from NC treatment to a higher extent than low-BW piglets. Low-BW piglets showed a higher fatness (p = 0.003), lower lean cut yield (p = 0.002) in carcasses, and higher intramuscular fat (IMF) content (2.29% vs. 1.91%; p = 0.01) in meat. NC treatment increased the lean content in carcasses from low-BW piglets (p < 0.01). The monounsaturated fatty acids concentration was higher in lower-than-normal-BW piglets (48.1% vs. 47.1%; p = 0.002) and the opposite effect was observed for polyunsaturated fatty acids (13.6% vs. 15.7%; p = 0.002). NC treatment induced a higher concentration of n-7 fatty acids. In conclusion, NC treatment may be a useful practice to reduce mortality in low-BW piglets. Moreover, NC could affect carcass fatness and meat quality, thus suggesting a long-term effect on metabolism.
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs and Associated Toxicities in Horses
Authors: Flood Jordan , Stewart Allison J.
Published: October 2022

Effective pain management in horses can be a challenge despite the understanding that appropriate analgesia improves animal welfare and increases treatment success. The administration of NSAID drugs, particularly phenylbutazone and flunixin, are common practice in equine veterinary patients. Known for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, NSAIDs are used for the treatment of a variety of conditions in horses, from gastrointestinal to orthopedic pain. Despite extensive usage, NSAIDs have a narrow margin of safety and the body of literature documenting the efficacy and side effects of different NSAIDs is broad. The three main side effects associated with excessive or prolonged NSAID usage in horses include gastroduodenal ulceration, right dorsal colitis (RDC) and renal papillary necrosis. The use of cyclooxygenase-2 selective NSAIDS, such as firocoxib, are theoretically safer. The aim of this paper is to review the current literature on the use and efficacy of different NSAIDs, summarise the associated side effects of NSAID usage and evaluate the current state of knowledge for the diagnosis and treatment of such toxicities.
Long-Term Protein Restriction Modulates Lipid Metabolism in White Adipose Tissues and Alters Colonic Microbiota of Shaziling Pigs
Authors: Zheng Jie , Duan Yehui , Zheng Changbing , Yu Jiayi , Li Fengna , Guo Qiuping , Yin Yulong
Published: October 2022

Obesity is a matter of concern to the public. Abundant evidence has been accumulated that nutritional intervention is a promising strategy to address this health issue. The objective of this study is to investigate alterations in the lipid metabolism in white adipose tissues and the gut microbiota of Shaziling pigs challenged by long-term protein restriction. Results showed that compared with the control group, reducing the protein level by 20% (−20%) increased the mRNA abundance of FABP4 in white adipose tissues (p < 0.05). This occurred in conjunction with increases in PPARγ protein expression. Conversely, the protein expression of C/EBPα was reduced in the −20% group (p < 0.05). Moreover, the −20% group had increased/decreased phosphorylation of AMPKα/mTOR, respectively (p < 0.05). As for the colonic gut microbiota, a 20% reduction in the protein level led to increased Lachnospiraceae XPB1014 group abundance at the genus level (p < 0.01). Collectively, these results indicated that a 20% protein reduction could modulate lipid metabolism and alter the colonic microbiota of Shaziling pigs, an approach which might be translated into a treatment for obesity.
Effect of Supplementation with Organic Selenium or Turmeric and Rosemary Mixture on Beta-Defensin Content in Goat Milk
Authors: Zalewska Magdalena , Kapusta Aleksandra , Kawecka-Grochocka Ewelina , Urbańska Daria M. , Czopowicz Michał , Kaba Jarosław , Brzozowska Paulina , Bagnicka Emilia
Published: October 2022

The present study examines the effects of diet supplementation with an organic selenium or herb-spice mixture on beta-defensin1 (GBD-1) and beta-defensin2 (GBD-2) concentrations in goat milk. Herd-I, consisting of Polish White (PWI) and Fawn Improved (PFI) goats, received supplementation with organic or inorganic selenium (controls). All goats were free from parasites, mastitis, and small ruminant lentivirus infection. Herd-II, consisting of PWI goats, either received a turmeric-rosemary mixture (experimental) or not (controls). The Herd I control group demonstrated higher fat, free fatty acid, and somatic cell levels and lower protein and lactose contents than Herd II controls. The GBD-1 concentration was below the detection limit in both herds. Herd I controls demonstrated higher GBD-2 concentrations in milk than Herd II controls. In addition, lower GBD-2 concentrations were noted in PWI goat milk. Organic selenium or rosemary-turmeric mixture supplementation had no effect on the GBD-2 content in the milk of healthy goats. The higher GBD-2 concentration observed in Herd Ic than in Herd IIc may suggest that the type of basal diet affects defensin secretion.
The Influence of Forestry Management on the Selection of a Non-Vegetative Diet by the Eurasian Beaver (Castor fiber L.)
Authors: Mikulka Ondřej , Pyszko Petr , Skoták Vlastimil , Kamler Jiří , Drimaj Jakub , Plhal Radim , Homolka Miloslav
Published: October 2022

Native ecosystems have been transformed by humans into cultural landscapes, resulting in the disruption of natural interactions, with some species unable to adapt and disappearing from such landscapes. Other species were able to adapt their behavior to current environmental conditions. In some places, forest management has gradually transformed native diversified forests into stands converted for the greatest profit in the wood matter, thereby affecting the food availability for herbivores, among them the Eurasian beaver (Castor fiber Linnaeus, 1758). This study summarizes knowledge on non-vegetation diet selection by beavers in commercial and natural forests in the Czech Republic. A sample size of 25,723 woody plant specimens checked in 288 forest stands showed that beavers prefer willow, poplar, or hazel, but where these are less available, commercial tree species such as oak may dominate the diet and cause economic losses in forestry. Significant differences were also observed in a preference for different trunk diameters and distances from water in different types of stands. In terms of stand types, commercial monocultures are the most felled, while the probability of felling decreases with the age of stands. Based on these results and discussion, it is suggested that commercial forest stands including economically valuable woody plant species (e.g., oak, ash) could be protected through appropriate management measures, such as increasing the proportion of deciduous softwood stands along the riverbanks, which would distract the beavers from commercial woody plant species.
Construction of Artificial Forest Point Clouds by Laser SLAM Technology and Estimation of Carbon Storage
Authors: Tai Haoyu , Xia Yonghua , Yan Min , Li Chen , Kong XiaLi
Published: October 2022

In order to reduce the impact of global warming, forestry carbon sink trading is an effective approach to achieving carbon neutrality, while carbon storage estimation plays an important role as the basis of the whole carbon sink trading. Therefore, an accurate estimation of carbon storage is conducive to the sustainable development of carbon sink trading. In this paper, we use laser SLAM technology to model an artificial forest in three dimensions, extract the tree parameters by the point cloud processing software, and calculate the carbon storage according to the allometric growth equation of the tree species. The experimental results show that the loop path is the best among the three-path planning of ZEB-HORIZON scanner data acquisition. For large-scale plantations, the fusion data acquisition of linear and loop paths by Livox Mid-40 and ZEB-HORIZON LIDAR can be adopted with a highly precise and a complete 3D point cloud obtained. The Lidar360 software is used for single wood segmentation and parameter extraction, and the manual measurement is taken as the quasi-true value. After the measurement accuracy analysis, the carbon storage estimation is met. Using the volume source biomass method in the sample plot inventory method, the carbon storages of camphor and cypress in the experimental area were estimated through the allometric growth equation of camphor and cypress and the international conversion rate.
Study on the Shearer Attitude Sensing Error Compensation Method Based on Strapdown Inertial Navigation System
Authors: Wu Gang , Fang Xinqiu , Song Yang , Liang Minfu , Chen Ningning
Published: October 2022

Intelligent mining is the demand and inevitable development direction of China’s coal industry, and the shearer attitude based on the 3D spatial scale is the essential basic information for realizing intelligent mining at the fully mechanized mining face. The traditional shearer attitude monitoring technology cannot meet the accuracy requirements of attitude sensing of mining equipment at an intelligent working face. In this paper, based on the basic principle of strapdown inertial navigation system (SINS), a real-time solution algorithm for shearer attitude is constructed, and the specific process of SINS coarse alignment and fine alignment is studied. The main error terms affecting the accuracy of SINS are analyzed, and the initial alignment error, installation deviation angle error, and vibration effect error are compensated and analyzed through simulation one by one. According to the working characteristics of the shearer, the coning error and sculling error of the shearer’s SINS are compensated and analyzed through simulation. This paper provides a complete set of theories and methods for improvement of the accuracy of the shearer attitude sensing in underground operation; simulation results also verify that the theories and methods can significantly improve the perception accuracy which can provide theoretical and technical reference for the production state prediction of fully mechanized mining face and intelligent control of underground mining equipment.
The Synergic Effect of Primary and Secondary Flame Retardants on the Improvement in the Flame Retardant and Mechanical Properties of Thermoplastic Polyurethane Nanocomposites
Authors: Faryal Sidra , Zafar Muhammad , Nazir M. Shahid , Ali Zulfiqar , Hussain Manwar , Muhammad Imran Syed
Published: October 2022

Recently, nanocomposites of polymers have attracted attention due to their advanced features compared to their complement polymer microcomposites. In this study, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) was used as a matrix; antimony trioxide (primary flame retardant) and montmorillonite organo-clay (secondary flame retardant), along with benzoflex (plasticizer), were used as fillers to examine their synergistic effect. Nanocomposites of various compositions (TPU-1 to TPU-6) were prepared via the melt-mixing method and compressed to form sheets of the desired dimensions with a compression molding hydraulic press machine. Characterization of the samples was conducted with Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). A tensile test was performed through a universal testing machine (UTM) which showed that the Young’s Modulus improved from 147.348 MPa for the pure sample (TPU-1) to 244.568 MPa for TPU-6. A UL-94 test was executed to observe flame retardance. The sample of interest (TPU-6) achieved V-0 classification in UL-94. All these results confirmed the synergistic effect of primary and secondary flame retardants. An optimum increase in fire resistance and mechanical strength was observed for TPU-6.
Development of an Artificial 3D Liver Phantom for Analysis of Radiotherapeutic Effects In Vitro
Authors: Stengl Christina , Ghafoory Shahrouz , Weidner Artur , Murphy Brennah , Wölfl Stefan
Published: October 2022

Over recent decades, stereotactic body radiotherapy has garnered increasing popularity. Unfortunately, conventional preclinical 2D in vitro models are often insufficient for studying radiotherapy effects. Therefore, in this study, we developed a novel anthropomorphic in vitro liver phantom, which simulates the relevant hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tumor microenvironment and spatial organization. The liver phantom was 3D printed, filled with tissue-mimicking agarose mixture, and designed to fit ten microfluidic chips (MCs), in which HepG2 cells were seeded. Airtight MCs induced hypoxic conditions, as verified by Hif1α staining. Irradiation was conducted with 20 Gy in one fraction using a CyberKnife, in either a 2D setup, or by irradiating MCs arranged in the 3D-printed liver model using an individually calculated treatment plan. Post-irradiation cellular damage was determined via γH2AX staining. Here, we demonstrate a new physiologically relevant approach to model HCC pathology following radiotherapy. Comparing γH2AX staining in normoxic conditions to cells grown in MCs (hypoxic conditions) revealed a reduction in cellular damage of 30.24% (p = 0.0001) in the hypoxic environment. Moreover, we compared the scattering effect of radiation on a conventional 2D in vitro model to our new 3D anthropomorphic liver phantom and observed a significant γH2AX intensity reduction of 9.6% (p = 0.0294) in HepG2 cells irradiated in the phantom. Our approach of utilizing a liver phantom takes into account the hypoxic tumor microenvironment and 3D scattering effects of tissue irradiation, thereby modeling both physical and biological parameters of HCC tumors. The use of tissue phantoms lays the groundwork for future examination of other hypoxic tumors and offers a more comprehensive approach for screening and analysis of novel cancer therapeutics.
Machine-Learning-Based COVID-19 and Dyspnoea Prediction Systems for the Emergency Department
Authors: La Salvia Marco , Torti Emanuele , Secco Gianmarco , Bellazzi Carlo , Salinaro Francesco , Lago Paolo , Danese Giovanni , Perlini Stefano , Leporati Francesco
Published: October 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted an urgent need for reliable diagnostic tools to minimize viral spreading. It is mandatory to avoid cross-contamination between patients and detect COVID-19 positive individuals to cluster people by prognosis and manage the emergency department’s resources. Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Hospital’s Emergency Department (ED) of Pavia let us evaluate the exploitation of machine learning algorithms on a clinical dataset gathered from laboratory-confirmed rRT-PCR test patients, collected from 1 March to 30 June 2020. Physicians examined routine blood tests, clinical history, symptoms, arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis, and lung ultrasound quantitative examination. We developed two diagnostic tools for COVID-19 detection and oxygen therapy prediction, namely, the need for ventilation support due to lung involvement. We obtained promising classification results with F1 score levels meeting 92%, and we also engineered a user-friendly interface for healthcare providers during daily screening operations. This research proved machine learning models as a potential screening methodology during contingency times.