bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Photobiomodulation Therapy at 808 nm Does Not Improve Biceps Brachii Performance to Exhaustion and Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness in Young Adult Women: A Randomized, Controlled, Crossover Trial
Authors: Azuma Ricardo Henrique Esquivel , Merlo Jeanne Karlette , Jacinto Jeferson Lucas , Borim Jayne Maria , da Silva Rubens Alexandre , Pacagnelli Francis Lopes , Nunes Joao Pedro , Ribeiro Alex Silva , Aguiar Andreo Fernando
Published: June 2021

Objective

This study aims to investigate the effects of laser photobiomodulation (PBM) at 808 nm on biceps brachii performance to exhaustion, rating of perceived exertion (RPE), and delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) in untrained young women.

Methods

Thirteen young women (20.1 ± 2.9 years) participated in a crossover study in which they received, in a counterbalanced manner, active and placebo laser PBM on two occasions (T1 and T2), separated by a 7-day washout period. During T1 and T2, participants received active (100 mW output power, irradiance of 35.7 W cm–2, and total energy of 28 J/arm) or placebo laser irradiation on the biceps brachii muscle at 20 min before the repetitions-to-failure test [six sets at 60% of one-repetition maximum (1RM) until failure] for elbow flexion exercise. The number of repetitions performed and RPE over the six sets, as well as DOMS from basal up to 72 h after the repetitions-to-failure test, were recorded.

Results

There was a significant (time, p < 0.05) reduction in the number of repetitions performed and an increase in RPE over six sets, with no statistical differences between placebo and active laser conditions (treatment × time, p > 0.05). DOMS increased at 24 h postexercise and progressively returned to baseline after 72 h in both conditions (time, p < 0.05; treatment × time, p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Our results indicate that acute laser PBM at 808 nm does not improve biceps brachii performance to exhaustion, RPE, and DOMS in untrained women.
Di-4-ANEPPS Modulates Electrical Activity and Progress of Myocardial Ischemia in Rabbit Isolated Heart
Authors: Ronzhina Marina , Stracina Tibor , Lacinova Lubica , Ondacova Katarina , Pavlovicova Michaela , Marsanova Lucie , Smisek Radovan , Janousek Oto , Fialova Katerina , Kolarova Jana , Novakova Marie , Provaznik Ivo
Published: June 2021

Aims

Although voltage-sensitive dye di-4-ANEPPS is a common tool for mapping cardiac electrical activity, reported effects on electrophysiological parameters are rather. The main goals of the study were to reveal effects of the dye on rabbit isolated heart and to verify, whether rabbit isolated heart stained with di-4-ANEPPS is a suitable tool for myocardial ischemia investigation.

Methods and Results

Study involved experiments on stained (n = 9) and non-stained (n = 11) Langendorff perfused rabbit isolated hearts. Electrophysiological effects of the dye were evaluated by analysis of various electrogram (EG) parameters using common paired and unpaired statistical tests. It was shown that staining the hearts with di-4-ANEPPS leads to only short-term sporadic prolongation of impulse conduction through atria and atrioventricular node. On the other hand, significant irreversible slowing of heart rate and ventricular conduction were found in stained hearts as compared to controls. In patch clamp experiments, significant inhibition of sodium current density was observed in differentiated NG108-15 cells stained by the dye. Although no significant differences in mean number of ventricular premature beats were found between the stained and the non-stained hearts in ischemia as well as in reperfusion, all abovementioned results indicate increased arrhythmogenicity. In isolated hearts during ischemia, prominent ischemic patterns appeared in the stained hearts with 3–4 min delay as compared to the non-stained ones. Moreover, the ischemic changes did not achieve the same magnitude as in controls even after 10 min of ischemia. It resulted in poor performance of ischemia detection by proposed EG parameters, as was quantified by receiver operating characteristics analysis.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate significant direct irreversible effect of di-4-ANEPPS on spontaneous heart rate and ventricular impulse conduction in rabbit isolated heart model. Particularly, this should be considered when di-4-ANEPPS is used in ischemia studies in rabbit. Delayed attenuated response of such hearts to ischemia might lead to misinterpretation of obtained results.
Insights Into the Mechanisms Implicated in Pinus pinaster Resistance to Pinewood Nematode
Authors: Modesto Inês , Sterck Lieven , Arbona Vicent , Gómez-Cadenas Aurelio , Carrasquinho Isabel , Van de Peer Yves , Miguel Célia M.
Published: June 2021

Pine wilt disease (PWD), caused by the plant–parasitic nematode Bursaphelenchus xylophilus, has become a severe environmental problem in the Iberian Peninsula with devastating effects in Pinus pinaster forests. Despite the high levels of this species' susceptibility, previous studies reported heritable resistance in P. pinaster trees. Understanding the basis of this resistance can be of extreme relevance for future programs aiming at reducing the disease impact on P. pinaster forests. In this study, we highlighted the mechanisms possibly involved in P. pinaster resistance to PWD, by comparing the transcriptional changes between resistant and susceptible plants after infection. Our analysis revealed a higher number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in resistant plants (1,916) when compared with susceptible plants (1,226). Resistance to PWN is mediated by the induction of the jasmonic acid (JA) defense pathway, secondary metabolism pathways, lignin synthesis, oxidative stress response genes, and resistance genes. Quantification of the acetyl bromide-soluble lignin confirmed a significant increase of cell wall lignification of stem tissues around the inoculation zone in resistant plants. In addition to less lignified cell walls, susceptibility to the pine wood nematode seems associated with the activation of the salicylic acid (SA) defense pathway at 72 hpi, as revealed by the higher SA levels in the tissues of susceptible plants. Cell wall reinforcement and hormone signaling mechanisms seem therefore essential for a resistance response.
Child-Like Adults: Dual-Task Effects on Collective vs. Distributive Sentence Interpretations
Authors: de Koster Anna M. B. , Hendriks Petra , Spenader Jennifer K.
Published: June 2021

In this work, we consider a recent proposal that claims that the preferred interpretation of sentences containing definite plural expressions, such as “The boys are building a snowman,” is not determined by semantic composition but is pragmatically derived via an implicature. Plural expressions can express that each member of a group acts individually (distributive interpretation) or that the group acts together (collective interpretation). While adults prefer collective interpretations for sentences that are not explicitly marked for distributivity by the distributive markereach, children do not show this preference. One explanation is that the adult collective preference for definite plurals arises due to a conversational implicature. If implicature calculation requires memory resources, children may fail to calculate the implicature due to memory limitations. This study investigated whether loading Dutch-speaking adults' working memory, using a dual task, would elicit more child-like distributive interpretations, as would be predicted by the implicature account. We found that loading WM in adults did lead to response patterns more similar to children. We discuss whether our results offer a plausible explanation for children's development of an understanding of distributivity and how our results relate to recent debates on the role of cognitive resources in implicature calculation.
Teaching and Learning of Piano Timbre Through Teacher–Student Interactions in Lessons
Authors: Li Shen , Timmers Renee
Published: June 2021

The ability to play the piano with a variety of timbres requires a performer to have advanced pianistic skills. Little is known about how these skills are acquired and developed in piano lessons and what the role is of elements such as concepts, technique, sonic outcomes, and bodily movements. To investigate the teaching and learning of piano timbre, the lessons of three pairs of university-level teachers and students (two teachers and three students) were observed, during which they behaved as usual in the first two lessons and were asked to use a dialogic teaching approach in the third lesson. Verbal communications of teachers and students about timbre were coded and analyzed, aiming to gain insight into the teaching/learning process of piano timbre and the roles of embodiment and teacher–student interaction in the context of higher music education. The results suggest that piano timbre is not learned through imitation or as “fixed” and objective knowledge, but as a co-constructed conception between the teachers and the students. The meaning of timbre goals in piano lessons is enacted through “in-the-moment” bodily experience and embodied through performance actions. This study contributes to the understanding of piano timbre as a multifaceted phenomenon and illustrates the teacher's role in developing the student's mind–body integration involved in tone production.
Mental Health Status, Life Satisfaction, and Mood State of Elite Athletes During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Follow-Up Study in the Phases of Home Confinement, Reopening, and Semi-Lockdown Condition
Authors: Mehrsafar Amir Hossien , Moghadam Zadeh Ali , Gazerani Parisa , Jaenes Sanchez Jose Carlos , Nejat Mehri , Rajabian Tabesh Mastaneh , Abolhasani Maryam
Published: June 2021

Scientific reports notified that the pandemic caused by the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has raised an unprecedented mental health emergency worldwide. Abrupt changes in daily routine, environmental constraints, adopted home confinement measures, and uncertainty about a date for returning to usual activities can potentially affect mental health and sports activities in athletes. Hence, we designed a cross-sectional study with a within-subjects design to investigate the impact of the pandemic on mental health, mood states, and life satisfaction of elite athletes. During the three phases of home confinement (April 14–24,n= 525), reopening (May 9–19,n= 464), and current semi-lockdown (July 20–31,n= 428), elite athletes voluntarily responded to an online survey. The self-report questionnaire was prepared to collect demographic and epidemiological variables of interest and the COVID-19-related information. All participants also completed the Profile of Mood State (POMS), General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28), and Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS). The main result is that the training rate, mental health, life satisfaction, and positive mood have decreased during the home confinement period as compared with the reopening and semi-lockdown phases. However, the need for psychosocial services has increased during the pandemic period. The present study provides the first preliminary evidence that home confinement conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic might have negatively influenced elite athlete’s mood state, mental health, and life satisfaction, as well as training rates. Monitoring the psychological parameters of elite athletes and developing strategies to improve their mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic should be on the agenda. Next studies, therefore, seem reasonable to focus on active interventions for athletes during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
A Methodological Framework for Assessing Social Presence in Music Interactions in Virtual Reality
Authors: Van Kerrebroeck Bavo , Caruso Giusy , Maes Pieter-Jan
Published: June 2021

Virtual reality (VR) brings radical new possibilities to the empirical study of social music cognition and interaction. In the present article, we consider the role of VR as a research tool, based on its potential to create a sense of “social presence”: the illusory feeling of being, and socially interacting, inside a virtual environment. This makes VR promising for bridging ecological validity (“research in the wild”) and experimental control (“research in the lab”) in empirical music research. A critical assumption however is the actual ability of VR to simulate real-life social interactions, either via human-embodied avatars or computer-controlled agents. The mediation of social musical interactions via VR is particularly challenging due to their embodied, complex, and emotionally delicate nature. In this article, we introduce a methodological framework to operationalize social presence by a combination of factors across interrelated layers, relating to the performance output, embodied co-regulation, and subjective experiences. This framework provides the basis for the proposal of a pragmatic approach to determine the level of social presence in virtual musical interactions, by comparing the outcomes across the multiple layers with the outcomes of corresponding real-life musical interactions. We applied and tested this pragmatic approach via a case-study of piano duet performances of the piece Piano Phase composed by Steve Reich. This case-study indicated that a piano duet performed in VR, in which the real-time interaction between pianists is mediated by embodied avatars, might lead to a strong feeling of social presence, as reflected in the measures of performance output, embodied co-regulation, and subjective experience. In contrast, although a piano duet in VR between an actual pianist and a computer-controlled agent led to a relatively successful performance output, it was inadequate in terms of both embodied co-regulation and subjective experience.
Color Modulates Feature Integration
Authors: Saini Harpreet , Jordan Heather , Fallah Mazyar
Published: June 2021

Bayesian models of object recognition propose the resolution of ambiguity through probabilistic integration of prior experience with available sensory information. Color, even when task-irrelevant, has been shown to modulate high-level cognitive control tasks. However, it remains unclear how color modulations affect lower-level perceptual processing. We investigated whether color affects feature integration using the flash-jump illusion. This illusion occurs when an apparent motion stimulus, a rectangular bar appearing at different locations along a motion trajectory, changes color at a single position. Observers misperceive this color change as occurring farther along the trajectory of motion. This mislocalization error is proposed to be produced by a Bayesian perceptual framework dependent on responses in area V4. Our results demonstrated that the color of the flash modulated the magnitude of the flash-jump illusion such that participants reported less of a shift, i.e., a more veridical flash location, for both red and blue flashes, as compared to green and yellow. Our findings extend color-dependent modulation effects found in higher-order executive functions into lower-level Bayesian perceptual processes. Our results also support the theory that feature integration is a Bayesian process. In this framework, color modulations play an inherent and automatic role as different colors have different weights in Bayesian perceptual processing.
Social Dominance Orientation Boosts Collective Action Among Low-Status Groups
Authors: Carvalho Catarina L. , Pinto Isabel R. , Costa-Lopes Rui , Páez Darío , Miranda Mariana P. , Marques José M.
Published: June 2021

We propose that low-status group members' support for group-based hierarchy and inequality (i.e., social dominance orientation; SDO) may represent an ideological strategy to guarantee the legitimacy of future ingroup status-enhancement. Specifically, we argue that, under unstable social structure conditions, SDO serves as an ideological justification for collective action tendencies aimed at competing for a higher status. In such context, SDO should be positively related with actions aimed to favor the ingroup (i.e., collective actions) by increasing group members' motivation to engage in direct competition with a relevant higher-status outgroup. We conducted two studies under highly competitive and unstable social structure contexts using real life groups. In Study 1 (N = 77), we induced Low vs. High Ingroup (University) Status and in Study 2 (N = 220) we used competing sports groups. Overall, results showed that, among members of low-status groups, SDO consistently increased individuals' motivation to get involved in actions favoring the ingroup, by boosting their motivation to compete with the opposing high-status outgroup. We discuss the results in light of the social dominance and collective action framework.
The Effect of 6-Week Combined Balance and Plyometric Training on Change of Direction Performance of Elite Badminton Players
Authors: Guo Zhenxiang , Huang Yan , Zhou Zhihui , Leng Bo , Gong Wangcheng , Cui Yixiong , Bao Dapeng
Published: June 2021

The study aimed to investigate the effect of combined balance and plyometric training on the change of direction (COD) performance of badminton athletes. Sixteen elite male badminton players volunteered to participate and were randomly assigned to a balance-plyometric group (BP: n = 8) and plyometric group (PL: n = 8). The BP group performed balance combined with plyometric training three times a week over 6 weeks; while the PL group undertook only plyometric training three times a week during the same period. Meanwhile, both groups were given the same technical training. All participants were tested to assess the COD ability before and after the training period: Southeast Missouri (SEMO) test and 5-0-5 test, dynamic balance ability (Y-Balance test, YBT), and reactive strength index (RSI). Repeated-measure ANOVA revealed that after the intervention there was a significant time × group interaction for 5-0-5 COD test, YBT of both legs and RSI (p < 0.05, partial η2 = 0.26–0.58) due to the better performance observed at post-test compared with a pre-test for the BP group [effect size (ES) = 1.20–1.76], and the improvement was higher than that of the PL group. The change in SEMO test did not differ between BP and PL (p < 0.159, partial η2= 0.137), but the magnitude of the with-group improvement for BP (ES = 1.55) was higher than that of PL (ES = 0.81). These findings suggest that combined training could further improve the COD performance of badminton athletes than plyometric training alone and might provide fitness trainers a more efficient COD training alternative.
University Teachers' Teaching Style and Their Students' Agentic Engagement in EFL Learning in China: A Self-Determination Theory and Achievement Goal Theory Integrated Perspective
Authors: Jiang Anne Li , Zhang Lawrence Jun
Published: June 2021

As a relatively new dimension of student engagement, agentic engagement has received growing research interest in recent years, as it not only predicts academic achievement and other positive outcomes, but also benefits reciprocal teacher-student relations. In the educational context, teachers' teaching style exerts a crucial impact on students' engagement. However, research on how perceived teachers' teaching style influences students' agentic engagement is inconclusive. To address this lacuna, this study, taking an integrated perspective that draws on Self-determination Theory and Achievement Goal Theory, investigated the relationship of three types of teaching style (i.e., perceived autonomy support, social relatedness, and controlling) to university students' agentic engagement in EFL learning in China, especially through the mediation of mastery-approach goals and performance approach goals. Structural equation modeling showed that perceived autonomy support positively predicted agentic engagement through the mediation of mastery-approach goals, whereas perceived controlling negatively predicted agentic engagement through the mediation of performance-approach goals. Comparatively, the relationship of perceived social relatedness to agentic engagement was fully mediated by both mastery-approach and performance-approach goals. After discussing these results, practical implications as well as suggestions for future studies were given.
Postpartum Depression: Current Status and Possible Identification Using Biomarkers
Authors: Yu Yi , Liang Hong-Feng , Chen Jing , Li Zhi-Bin , Han Yu-Shuai , Chen Jia-Xi , Li Ji-Cheng
Published: June 2021

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a serious health issue that can affect about 15% of the female population within after giving birth. It often conveys significant negative consequences to the offsprings. The symptoms and risk factors are somewhat similar to those found in non-postpartum depression. The main difference resides in the fact that PPD is triggered by postpartum specific factors, including especially biological changes in the hormone levels. Patients are usually diagnosed using a questionnaire onsite or in a clinic. Treatment of PPD often involves psychotherapy and antidepressant medications. In recent years, there have been more researches on the identification of biological markers for PPD. In this review, we will focus on the current research status of PPD, with an emphasis on the recent progress made on the identification of PPD biomarkers.
Crop Yields in European Agroforestry Systems: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ivezić Vladimir , Yu Yang , Werf Wopke van der
Published: June 2021

Agroforestry is the practice of integrating woody vegetation with crops and/or livestock production in order to strengthen ecological services on farmland and achieve a more multi-functional agricultural system. Crop yields determine economic outcomes when trees are young, but information on yields is scattered in the literature and a quantitative overview of crop yields in European agroforestry systems is lacking. We therefore synthesized published information on crop yields in European agroforestry systems, using meta-analysis. A systematic review of the literature was conducted, highlighting quantitative information on yields is available only for traditional Dehesa systems in Spain and Portugal and for modern alley cropping experiments, mostly in northern Europe. Relative cereal crop yields in alley cropping systems (systems with tree rows with interspersed crop strips) were 96% of sole crop yield at tree planting. Crop yields in alley cropping decreased on average with 2.6% per year over the first 21 years of the tree stand, indicating increasing competitive effects of the trees with their age. On the other hand, studies in traditional Dehesa and Montado systems in Southern Europe showed no negative influence of the trees on crop production, indicating that competition between crops and trees plays a less important role in those systems than in alley cropping. Overall, the systematic review showed a need for more experimental data to further substantiate the benefits of agroforestry and elucidate optimal agroforestry practices under European conditions.
Risk Factors for Prolonged Mechanical Ventilation After Pulmonary Endarterectomy: 7 Years' Experience From an Experienced Hospital in China
Authors: Zhang Congya , Yang Lijing , Shi Sheng , Fang Zhongrong , Li Jun , Wang Guyan
Published: June 2021

Background:Prolonged mechanical ventilation (PMV) is common after cardiothoracic surgery, whereas the mechanical ventilation strategy after pulmonary endarterectomy (PEA) has not yet been reported. We aim to identify the incidence and risk factors for PMV and the relationship between PMV and short-term outcomes.

Methods:We studied a retrospective cohort of 171 who undergoing PEA surgery from 2014 to 2020. Cox regression with restricted cubic splines was performed to identify the cutoff value for PMV. The Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression and logistic regressions were applied to identify risk factors for PMV. The impacts of PMV on the short-term outcomes were evaluated.

Results:PMV was defined as the duration of mechanical ventilation exceeding 48 h. Independent risk factors for PMV included female sex (OR 2.911; 95% CI 1.303–6.501;P= 0.009), prolonged deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (DHCA) time (OR 1.027; 95% CI 1.002–1.053;P= 0.036), increased postoperative blood product use (OR 3.542; 95% CI 1.203–10.423;P= 0.022), elevated postoperative total bilirubin levels (OR 1.021; 95% CI 1.007–1.034;P= 0.002), increased preoperative pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) (OR 1.031; 95% CI 1.014–1.048;P< 0.001) and elongated postoperative right ventricular anteroposterior dimension (RVAD) (OR 1.119; 95% CI 1.026–1.221;P= 0.011). Patients with PMV had longer intensive care unit stays, higher incidences of postoperative complications, and higher in-hospital medical expenses.

Conclusions:Female sex, prolonged DHCA time, increased postoperative blood product use, elevated postoperative total bilirubin levels, increased preoperative PAP, and elongated postoperative RVAD were independent risk factors for PMV. Identification of risk factors associated with PMV in patients undergoing PEA may facilitate timely diagnosis and re-intervention for some of these modifiable factors to decrease ventilation time and improve patient outcomes.
Temperature-Dependent Residue Depletion Regularities of Tiamulin in Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) Following Multiple Oral Administrations
Authors: Cao Cuiyv , Liu Yongtao , Zhang Guodong , Dong Jing , Xu Ning , Zhou Shun , Yang Yibin , Yang Qiuhong , Ai Xiaohui
Published: June 2021

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of different water temperatures (19, 25, and 30°C) on tissue residue depletion of tiamulin in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) after five consecutive days of oral administration at the dose of 20 mg/kg body weight and to calculate the corresponding elimination half-life (T1/2) and withdrawal times (WTs). After oral administration at scheduled 11 time points (1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, 12, 15, 20, 25, and 30 days), samples of plasma and tissues (muscle plus skin, liver, kidney, and gill) were collected. Tiamulin concentration in samples were determined by liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS).T1/2was calculated by the equation:T1/2= ln2/k. WT 1.4 software was used to calculate WT. The results showed that tiamulin was widely distributed in all tissue samples with the highest concentration in liver. At three different water temperatures, theT1/2were calculated as 2.76, 2.13, and 1.64 days in plasma, 2.71, 1.85, and 1.31 days in muscle plus skin, 2.27, 1.70, and 1.50 days in liver, 2.84, 2.32, and 1.94 day in kidney, and 3.16, 2.42, and 1.74 days in gill, respectively. At 19°C, the order of WT is kidney (11.88 days) > liver (10.41 days) > gill (10.77 days) > plasma (8.83 days) > muscle plus skin (7.14 days). The WT for tiamulin at 25°C was in the following order: kidney (8.40 days) > liver (8.21 days) > gill (8.07 days) > plasma (7.24 days) > muscle plus skin (4.05 days). At 30°C, the WT dropped and shown as follows: gill (6.99 days) > kidney (6.51 days) > liver (6.29 days) > plasma (3.27 days) > muscle plus skin (2.92 days). The present investigations indicated that increasing the temperature from 19 to 30°C shortenedT1/2and WT of tiamulin in tilapia. To ensure the safety of fish consumption, the longest WT of tissues is suggested for tiamulin in Nile tilapia at the corresponding water temperature; i.e., WTs were 12 days at 19°C, 9 days at 25°C, and 7 days at 30°C, respectively. Overall, we intended to provide a theoretical basis for tissue residue depletion kinetics of tiamulin in fish and improve our understanding of the influence of the temperature on tissue residue depletion kinetics of tiamulin in fish.
Factors Associated With Being Overweight or Obese in Suriname
Authors: Khadan Jeetendra , Spencer Nekeisha , Strobl Eric , Bose-Duker Theophiline
Published: June 2021

Objective: To identify the socio-demographic risk factors that are associated with adult Body Mass Index.

Methods: We apply probit and ordinal probit models to a sample of 3,803 adults aged 20 and above from the 2016/17 round of the Suriname Survey of Living Conditions.

Results: Women, the elderly, and couples who are either married and/or living together are more likely to be obese or overweight. This is also true for individuals who have chronic illnesses. We also find that individuals who engage in a sport or in other forms of exercise, even if modest, have lower odds of being overweight or obese. Interestingly, our findings indicate that individuals who benefit from government social safety net programs are less likely to be associated with being overweight or obese.

Conclusion: Obesity could become a serious public health issue if not addressed appropriately. Policymakers should promptly develop a national strategy to help health care systems cope with the outcomes of obesity and to tackle the risk factors that have the greatest impacts on individual Body Mass Index.
Effects of Environmental Clutter on Synthesized Chiropteran Echolocation Signals in an Anechoic Chamber
Authors: Freeze Samuel R. , Shirazi Masoud , Abaid Nicole , Ford Mark , Silvis Alexander , Hakkenberg Dawn
Published: June 2021

Ultrasonic bat detectors are useful for research and monitoring purposes to assess occupancy and relative activity of bat communities. Environmental “clutter” such as tree boles and foliage can affect the recording quality and identification of bat echolocation calls collected using ultrasonic detectors. It can also affect the transmission of calls and recognition by bats when using acoustic lure devices to attract bats to mist-nets. Bat detectors are often placed in forests, yet automatic identification programs are trained on call libraries using echolocation passes recorded largely from open spaces. Research indicates that using clutter-recorded calls can increase classification accuracy for some bat species and decrease accuracy for others, but a detailed understanding of how clutter impacts the recording and identification of echolocation calls remains elusive. To clarify this, we experimentally investigated how two measures of clutter (i.e., total basal area and number of stems of simulated woody growth, as well as recording angle) affected the recording and classification of a synthesized echolocation signal under controlled conditions in an anechoic chamber. Recording angle (i.e., receiver position relative to emitter) significantly influenced the probability of correct classification and differed significantly for many of the call parameters measured. The probability of recording echo pulses was also a function of clutter but only for the detector angle at 0° from the emitter that could receive deflected pulses. Overall, the two clutter metrics were overshadowed by proximity and angle of the receiver to the sound source but some deviations from the synthesized call in terms of maximum, minimum, and mean frequency parameters were observed. Results from our work may aid efforts to better understand underlying environmental conditions that produce false-positive and -negative identifications for bat species of interest and how this could be used to adjust survey accuracy estimates. Our results also help pave the way for future research into the development of acoustic lure technology by exploring the effects of environmental clutter on ultrasound transmission.
Effects of Age and Rice Straw Inclusion Levels in the Diet of Yiling Cull Cows on Growth Performance, Meat Quality, and Antioxidant Status of Tissues
Authors: Qiu Xinjun , Qin Xiaoli , Chen Liming , Qiu Qinghua , Wang Haibo , Aziz ur Rahmanand Muhammad , Cao Binghai , Su Huawei
Published: June 2021

The objectives of this study were to investigate the effects of age and dietary straw levels on growth performance, carcass and meat traits, as well as tissue antioxidant status of Yiling cull cows. Twenty-four Yiling cull cows were arranged in a 2 × 2 factorial design: two age classes consisting of younger cull cows (YCC; appearing with three or four pairs of permanent teeth) and older cull cows (OCC; worn out teeth); two dietary treatments consisting of lower and higher rice straw levels (LRS and HRS; providing 0.7 kg/d and 1.2 kg/d rice straw per head based on air-dry basis, respectively). Cows were fed twice a day. Straw was offered at half of the predetermined weight each meal; concentrate was separately supplied ad libitum. After 300 d of feeding, final body weight (BW), total BW gain, average daily gain and gain:feed intake were higher (p < 0.01) in the YCC group than in the OCC group. Total dry matter intake was higher (p = 0.03) in the HRS group than in the LRS group, but neutral detergent fiber apparent digestibility was negatively affected (p = 0.01) by increased straw levels. Decreased C15:0, C17:0, C20:5n3c, and saturated fatty acids (SFAs) proportion as well as increased C18:1n9c and monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) proportion in meat from YCC with HRS diet were observed as compared to that in meat from YCC with LRS diet (p < 0.05). Meat from HRS group had higher (p = 0.04) C18:3n3c proportion than meat from LRS group. No significant differences (p > 0.05) were found for meat quality attributes except for cooking loss, which was higher (p = 0.02) in the HRS group than in the LRS group. Both YCC group and HRS group had higher (p < 0.05) cold carcass weight compared to OCC group and LRS group. Moreover, catalase activity of liver tissue was higher (p = 0.045) in YCC than in OCC, while superoxide dismutase activity of muscle tissue was higher (p = 0.01) in LRS than in HRS. Based on results, we concluded that younger age and feeding high-level straw can improve the finishing performance of Yiling cull cows.
Selection of Urbanized Areas by Magpie Pica pica in a Medium Size City in Poland
Authors: Ciebiera Olaf , Czechowski Paweł , Morelli Federico , Piekarski Robert , Bocheński Marcin , Chachulska-Serweta Justyna , Jerzak Leszek
Published: June 2021

The Magpie Pica pica occurs all over open agricultural areas in Poland, especially near human settlements (particularly in western Poland). The aim of this study was to estimate the size of the local Magpie population and characterize, in detail, nest site selection in a medium size city Górzów Wlkp. in the XXI century. For this study, the whole city was divided into a total of 114 squares of 1 × 1 km. Data were collected in spring 2014. A total of 474 Magpie pairs were recorded. The average density was 5.5 pairs/km2 (min = 0, max = 22 nests/square), in the non-urbanized habitat type—3.7 p/km2, and in the urbanized habitat type—13.5 p/km2. Magpie nests were found most often on Spruces Picea sp. and Poplars Populus sp. The mean height of the nest site was 11.5 m, while the mean height of trees used for nesting was 13.4 m. The type of tree arrangement most frequently used for nesting was tree rows (26.3%), followed by single trees (24.6%) and clusters of 4–10 trees (20.1%). The results for the Magpie’s environmental preferences do not differ from the general patterns described earlier. The study shows that magpies can adapt to changing urbanization factors, and changes in the choice of conifers help the species to adapt to highly anthropogenic habitats.
Gene Expression Profile and Co-Expression Network of Pearl Gentian Grouper under Cold Stress by Integrating Illumina and PacBio Sequences
Authors: Miao Ben-Ben , Niu Su-Fang , Wu Ren-Xie , Liang Zhen-Bang , Tang Bao-Gui , Zhai Yun , Xu Xue-Qi
Published: June 2021

Pearl gentian grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus ♀ × Epinephelus lanceolatus ♂) is a fish of high commercial value in the aquaculture industry in Asia. However, this hybrid fish is not cold-tolerant, and its molecular regulation mechanism underlying cold stress remains largely elusive. This study thus investigated the liver transcriptomic responses of pearl gentian grouper by comparing the gene expression of cold stress groups (20, 15, 12, and 12 °C for 6 h) with that of control group (25 °C) using PacBio SMRT-Seq and Illumina RNA-Seq technologies. In SMRT-Seq analysis, a total of 11,033 full-length transcripts were generated and used as reference sequences for further RNA-Seq analysis. In RNA-Seq analysis, 3271 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), two low-temperature specific modules (tan and blue modules), and two significantly expressed gene sets (profiles 0 and 19) were screened by differential expression analysis, weighted gene co-expression networks analysis (WGCNA), and short time-series expression miner (STEM), respectively. The intersection of the above analyses further revealed some key genes, such as PCK, ALDOB, FBP, G6pC, CPT1A, PPARα, SOCS3, PPP1CC, CYP2J, HMGCR, CDKN1B, and GADD45Bc. These genes were significantly enriched in carbohydrate metabolism, lipid metabolism, signal transduction, and endocrine system pathways. All these pathways were linked to biological functions relevant to cold adaptation, such as energy metabolism, stress-induced cell membrane changes, and transduction of stress signals. Taken together, our study explores an overall and complex regulation network of the functional genes in the liver of pearl gentian grouper, which could benefit the species in preventing damage caused by cold stress.
The Effect of a 7 Year-Long Cryopreservation on Stemness Features of Canine Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (cAD-MSC)
Authors: Di Bella Santina , Cannella Vincenza , Mira Francesco , Di Marco Patrizia , Lastra Antonio , Gucciardi Francesca , Purpari Giuseppa , Guercio Annalisa
Published: June 2021

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are used in therapy in animal models and veterinary medicine, due to their capacity of inducing tissue regeneration and immunomodulation. Their clinical application requires a ready off-the-shelf amount of viable therapeutics doses. For this purpose, it is useful to cryopreserve MSCs to gain a ready and controlled source of abundant autologous stem cells. We evaluated the effect of 7 years cryopreservation using 10% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) with different fetal bovine serum (FBS) concentrations (from 10 to 90%) on different passages of MSCs isolated from canine adipose tissue (cAD-MSCs). The study aimed to evaluate the most adequate cell passage and FBS percentage for the long-term cryopreservation of cells by maintaining the stemness features. Phenotype morphology, cell viability, osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation potentials, proliferative potential and expression of pluripotency markers were analyzed in thawed cells and compared with fresh ones. We demonstrated that cells cryopreserved with at least 80% FBS maintain unaltered the stemness characteristics of the freshly isolated cells. In particular, cells of P0–P1 passages have to be expanded in vitro and subsequently cryopreserved and cells of P2–P4 passages should be considered in the studies on therapeutic application and in vitro study of cAD-MSCs.
Unusual Localization of Pennella Sp. in Swordfish (Xiphias gladius) Hearts
Authors: Mugetti Davide , Colombino Elena , Menconi Vasco , Garibaldi Fulvio , Mignone Walter , Gustinelli Andrea , Prearo Marino , Guarda Franco , Capucchio Maria Teresa
Published: June 2021

The genus Pennella comprises hematophagous parasites of marine aquatic species, including cephalopods, marine mammals, and pelagic fish. Nine species have been officially included in the genus Pennella plus another six species inquirendae. They are most often found in the host’s musculature, without penetrating internal organs. For the present study, 83 hearts from swordfish (Xiphias gladius) caught in the Mediterranean Sea were sampled and immediately fixed in formalin for histopathological analysis. In total, 10 (12.05%) hearts were found to be parasitized by copepods of the genus Pennella. Macroscopically, there was mild-to-severe fibrinous pericarditis with atrial wall thickening and multiple parasitic nodules. Histologically, the parasitic nodules were surrounded by an inflammatory-necrotizing reaction. Parasitic infestation by Pennella spp. is common in pelagic fish and in swordfish, in particular. Here, however, we report atypical cardiac localization. A future area of focus is the evaluation of cardiac Pennella spp. infestation by histopathology and genetic identification of the parasites.
Trans-Cinnamaldehyde Attenuates Enterococcus faecalis Virulence and Inhibits Biofilm Formation
Authors: Ali Islam A. A. , Matinlinna Jukka P. , Lévesque Celine M. , Neelakantan Prasanna
Published: June 2021

Enterococcus faecalis as an important nosocomial pathogen is critically implicated in the pathogenesis of endocarditis, urinary tract, and persistent root canal infections. Its major virulence attributes (biofilm formation, production of proteases, and hemolytic toxins) enable it to cause extensive host tissue damage. With the alarming increase in enterococcal resistance to antibiotics, novel therapeutics are required to inhibit E. faecalis biofilm formation and virulence. Trans-cinnamaldehyde (TC), the main phytochemical in cinnamon essential oils, has demonstrated promising activity against a wide range of pathogens. Here, we comprehensively investigated the effect of TC on planktonic growth, biofilm formation, proteolytic and hemolytic activities, as well as gene regulation in E. faecalis. Our findings revealed that sub-inhibitory concentrations of TC reduced biofilm formation, biofilm exopolysaccharides, as well as its proteolytic and hemolytic activities. Mechanistic studies revealed significant downregulation of the quorum sensing fsr locus and downstream gelE, which are major virulence regulators in E. faecalis. Taken together, our study highlights the potential of TC to inhibit E. faecalis biofilm formation and its virulence.
Simplification of Complex Structural Dynamic Models: A Case Study Related to a Cantilever Beam and a Large Mass Attachment
Authors: Langer Patrick , Jelich Christopher , Guist Christian , Peplow Andrew , Marburg Steffen
Published: June 2021

Large attachments can dramatically affect the dynamic response of an assembled structure. In various industrial sectors, e.g., the automotive, aircraft, and shipbuilding industries, it is often necessary to predict the dynamic response of assembled structures and large attachments in early-stage engineering design. To deal with this, it is often the finite element method (FEM) that is used in the vibrational analysis. Despite the advent of large-scale computer availability, it is still commonplace, and often necessary, to reduce the model-size with large attachments to acceptable levels for computer time-scale or memory-size limitations. This article discusses the simple methodology of replacing large and sometimes complicated attachments by using a simplified boundary condition. This methodology is well-known in certain sectors of computer-aided design, but here we are able to present a comprehensive discussion from laboratory measurements, finite element analysis and a simplified perspective. Given the availability of experimental data, the errors produced by these methodologies may then be determined by a structure that has a strictly defined geometry and known material properties within a certain tolerance. To demonstrate these effects, an experimental modal analysis is performed on a structure consisting of a beam and a large mass attachment, which is then validated by each of the finite element models that include the relevant approximate ideal boundary conditions. Various approximating boundary conditions are investigated, and quantifiable results are discussed. One of the conclusions confirms the recommendation that rotary inertia terms should be included as a boundary condition wherever possible when large attachments are approximated by an offset mass defined at a point.
Loliolide from Artemisia princeps Suppresses Adipogenesis in Human Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells via Activation of AMPK and Wnt/β-catenin Pathways
Authors: Oh Jung Hwan , Karadeniz Fatih , Jang Mi-Soon , Kim Hojun , Seo Youngwan , Kong Chang-Suk
Published: June 2021

Regulating the adipogenic differentiation mechanism is a valid and promising mechanism to battle obesity. Natural products, especially phytochemicals as nutraceuticals, are important lead molecules with significant activities against obesity. Loliolide is a monoterpenoid hydroxyl lactone found in many dietary plants. The effect of loliolide on adipogenic differentiation is yet to be determined. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate its anti-adipogenic potential using human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (hBM-MSCs) and assess its mechanism of action. Adipo-induced hBM-MSCs were treated with or without loliolide and their adipogenic characteristics were examined. Loliolide treatment decreased the lipid accumulation and expression of adipogenic transcription factors, PPARγ, C/EBPα, and SREBP1c. Adipo-induced hBM-MSCs also displayed increased AMPK phosphorylation and suppressed MAPK activation following loliolide treatment according to immunoblotting results. Importantly, loliolide could stimulate Wnt10b expression and active β-catenin translocation to exert PPARγ-linked adipogenesis suppression. In conclusion, loliolide was suggested to be a potential anti-adipogenic agent which may be utilized as a lead compound for obesity treatment or prevention.
Classification Performance for COVID Patient Prognosis from Automatic AI Segmentation—A Single-Center Study
Authors: Biondi Riccardo , Curti Nico , Coppola Francesca , Giampieri Enrico , Vara Giulio , Bartoletti Michele , Cattabriga Arrigo , Cocozza Maria Adriana , Ciccarese Federica , De Benedittis Caterina , Cercenelli Laura , Bortolani Barbara , Marcelli Emanuela , Pierotti Luisa , Strigari Lidia , Viale Pierluigi , Golfieri Rita , Castellani Gastone
Published: June 2021

Background: COVID assessment can be performed using the recently developed individual risk score (prediction of severe respiratory failure in hospitalized patients with SARS-COV2 infection, PREDI-CO score) based on High Resolution Computed Tomography. In this study, we evaluated the possibility of automatizing this estimation using semi-supervised AI-based Radiomics, leveraging the possibility of performing non-supervised segmentation of ground-glass areas. Methods: We collected 92 from patients treated in the IRCCS Sant’Orsola-Malpighi Policlinic and public databases; each lung was segmented using a pre-trained AI method; ground-glass opacity was identified using a novel, non-supervised approach; radiomic measurements were collected and used to predict clinically relevant scores, with particular focus on mortality and the PREDI-CO score. We compared the prediction obtained through different machine learning approaches. Results: All the methods obtained a well-balanced accuracy (70%) on the PREDI-CO score but did not obtain satisfying results on other clinical characteristics due to unbalance between the classes. Conclusions: Semi-supervised segmentation, implemented using a combination of non-supervised segmentation and feature extraction, seems to be a viable approach for patient stratification and could be leveraged to train more complex models. This would be useful in a high-demand situation similar to the current pandemic to support gold-standard segmentation for AI training.