bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Resveratrol enhances the antiliver cancer effect of cisplatin by targeting the cell membrane protein PLA2
Authors: Gao Yu , Yang Zhanyi , Bajpai Akhilesh Kumar , Wang Wenben , Zhang Liyuan , Xia Zhenhong
Published: September 2024

Background

In this study, we aimed to explore the mechanism by which resveratrol promotes cisplatin-induced death of HepG2 cells and to provide a potential strategy for resveratrol in the treatment of cancer.

Methods

HepG2 cells were exposed to a range of drug concentrations for 24 h: resveratrol (2.5 μg/mL [10.95 μM], 5 μg/mL [21.91 μM], 10 μg/mL [43.81 μM], 20 μg/mL [87.62 μM], 40 μg/mL [175.25 μM], and 80 μg/mL [350.50 μM]), cisplatin (0.625 μg/mL [2.08 μM], 1.25 μg/mL [4.17 μM], 2.5 μg/mL [8.33 μM], 4.5 μg/mL [15.00 μM], and 10 μg/mL [33.33 μM]), 24 μg/mL (105.15 μM) resveratrol + 9 μg/mL (30.00 μM) cisplatin, and 12 μg/mL (52.57 μM) resveratrol + 4.5 μg/mL (15.00 μM) cisplatin. The interaction of two drugs was evaluated by coefficient of drug interaction (CDI), which was based on the Pharmacological Additivity model. The MTT 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay was used to detect the effect of different concentrations of drugs on cell viability, while transcriptome sequencing was used to identify pathways associated with higher gene enrichment. Synchrotron radiation FTIR microspectroscopy experiments and data analysis were conducted to obtain detailed spectral information. The second-derivative spectra were calculated using the Savitzky–Golay algorithm. Single-cell infrared spectral absorption matrices were constructed to analyze the spectral characteristics of individual cells. The Euclidean distance between cells was calculated to assess their spectral similarity. The cell-to-cell Euclidean distance was computed to evaluate the spatial relationships between cells. The target protein of resveratrol was verified by performing a Western blot analysis.

Results

After 24 h of treatment with resveratrol, HepG2 cell growth was inhibited in a dose-dependent manner. Resveratrol promotes cisplatin-induced HepG2 cell death through membrane-related pathways. It also significantly changes the membrane components of HepG2 cells. Additionally, resveratrol changes the morphology of the HepG2 cell membrane by decreasing the expression of PLA2G2.

Conclusion

Resveratrol changes the morphology of the HepG2 cell membrane by decreasing the expression of PLA2G2 and promotes cisplatin-induced HepG2 cell death. The combination of cisplatin and resveratrol can play a synergistic therapeutic effect on HepG2 cells.
Accuracy of four models and update strategies to estimate liver tumor motion from external respiratory motion
Authors: Samadi Miandoab Payam , Worm Esben , Hansen Rune , Weber Britta , Høyer Morten , Saramad Shahyar , Setayeshi Saeed , Poulsen Per Rugaard
Published: September 2024

Background

This study investigates different strategies for estimating internal liver tumor motion during radiotherapy based on continuous monitoring of external respiratory motion combined with sparse internal imaging.

Methods

Fifteen patients underwent three-fraction stereotactic liver radiotherapy. The 3D internal tumor motion (INT) was monitored by electromagnetic transponders while a camera monitored the external marker block motion (EXT). The ability of four external-internal correlation models (ECM) to estimate INT as function of EXT was investigated: a simple linear model (ECM1), an augmented linear model (ECM2), an augmented quadratic model (ECM3), and an extended quadratic model (ECM4). Each ECM was constructed by fitting INT and EXT during the first 60s of each fraction. The fit accuracy was calculated as the root-mean-square error (RMSE) between ECM-estimated and actual tumor motion. Next, the RMSE of the ECM-estimated tumor motion throughout the fractions was calculated for four simulated ECM update strategies: (A) no update, 0.33Hz internal sampling with continuous update of either (B) all ECM parameters based on the last 2 minutes samples or (C) only the baseline term based on the last 5 samples, (D) full ECM update every minute using 20s continuous internal sampling.

Results

The augmented quadratic ECM3 had best fit accuracy with mean (± SD)) RMSEs of 0.32 ± 0.11mm (left-right, LR), 0.79 ± 0.30mm (cranio-caudal, CC) and 0.56 ± 0.31mm (anterior-posterior, AP). However, the simpler augmented linear ECM2 combined with frequent baseline updates (update strategy C) gave best motion estimations with mean RMSEs of 0.41 ± 0.14mm (LR), 1.02 ± 0.33mm (CC) and 0.78 ± 0.48mm (AP). This was significantly better than all other ECM-update strategy combinations for CC motion (Wilcoxon signed rank p<0.05).

Conclusion

The augmented linear ECM2 combined with frequent baseline updates provided the best compromise between fit accuracy and robustness towards irregular motion. It allows accurate internal motion monitoring by combining external motioning with sparse 0.33Hz kV imaging, which is available at conventional linacs.
Case Report: Cronkhite-Canada syndrome: presentation of a pediatric case and review of the literature
Authors: Shi Weina , Fu Haiyan , Zhao Shiguang , Cheng Shuhuan , Hou Shaogang , Zhao Ruiqin
Published: September 2024

Background

Cronkhite-Canada syndrome (CCS) is extremely rare in children, presenting with complex clinical manifestations often leading to misdiagnosis.

Case presentation

We reported a description of a 13-year-old boy with CSS presenting with persistent diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, along with symptoms of weight loss, alopecia, and skin hyperpigmentation. The patient had ectodermal manifestations such as alopecia and skin hyperpigmentation. Laboratory tests revealed hypoalbuminemia, normal inflammatory indicators, positive anti-dsDNA antibodies, anti-centromere antibodies, and anti-nuclear antibodies. Gastrointestinal endoscopy identified polypoid changes in the stomach, duodenum, and colon, with pathology indicating glandular dilation, cryptitis, and crypt abscesses. Treatment with prednisone led to significant improvement in symptoms, including normalization of stool consistency, hair regrowth, and disappearance of skin hyperpigmentation.

Conclusion

This study emphasizes the importance of comprehensive assessment, endoscopic examination, histological biopsy, and the effectiveness of steroid therapy in the diagnosis and management of CCS in children. In children presenting with diarrhea, abdominal pain, weight loss, polyposis, and ectodermal manifestations, CCS should be considered.
Comparative genomics and transcriptomics analysis of the bHLH gene family indicate their roles in regulating flavonoid biosynthesis in Sophora flavescens
Authors: Liu Ake , Lu Junjie , Song Huifang , Wang Xi , Wang Mingyang , Lei Zhenhong , Liu Huixuan , Lei Haiying , Niu Tianzeng
Published: September 2024

The basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factors play crucial roles in various processes, such as plant development, secondary metabolism, and response to biotic/abiotic stresses. Sophora flavescens is a widely used traditional herbal medicine in clinical practice, known for its abundant flavonoids as the main active compounds. However, there has been no comprehensive analysis of S. flavescens bHLH (SfbHLH) gene family reported currently. In this study, we identified 167 SfbHLH genes and classified them into 23 subfamilies based on comparative genomics and phylogenetic analysis. Furthermore, widespread duplications significantly contributed to the expansion of SfbHLH family. Notably, SfbHLH042 was found to occupy a central position in the bHLH protein-protein interaction network. Transcriptome analysis of four tissues (leaf, stem, root and flower) revealed that most SfbHLH genes exhibited high expression levels exclusively in specific tissues of S. flavescens. The integrated analysis of transcriptomics and metabolomics during pod development stages revealed that SfbHLH042 may play a central role in connecting SfbHLH genes, flavonoids, and key enzymes involved in the biosynthesis pathway. Moreover, we also checked the expression of 8 SfbHLH genes using RT-qPCR analysis to realize the expression profiles of these genes among various tissues at different cultivated periods and root development. Our study would aid to understand the phylogeny and expression profile of SfbHLH family genes, and provide a promising candidate gene, SfbHLH042, for regulating the biosynthesis of flavonoids in S. flavescens.
MAPK and phenylpropanoid metabolism pathways involved in regulating the resistance of upland cotton plants to Verticillium dahliae
Authors: Zhang Mingli , Ma Yanjun , Wang Yuan , Gao Haifeng , Zhao Sifeng , Yu Yu , Zhang Xuekun , Xi Hui
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Verticillium dahliae causes a serious decline in cotton yield and quality, posing a serious threat to the cotton industry. However, the mechanism of resistance to V. dahliae in cotton is still unclear, which limits the breeding of resistant cultivars.

Methods

To analyze the defense mechanisms of cotton in response to V. dahliae infection, we compared the defense responses of two upland cotton cultivars from Xinjiang (JK1775, resistant; Z8,susceptible) using transcriptome sequencing at different infection stages.

Results

The results revealed a significant differential expression of genes in the two cotton cultivars post V. dahliae infection, with the number of DEGs in JK1775 being higher than that in Z8 at different infection stages of V. dahliae. Interestingly, the DEGs of both JK1775 and Z8 were enriched in the MAPK signaling pathway in the early and late stages of infection. Importantly, the upregulated DEGs in both cultivars were significantly enriched in all stages of the phenylpropanoid metabolic pathway. Some of these DEGs were involved in the regulation of lignin and coumarin biosynthesis, which may be one of the key factors contributing to the resistance of upland cotton cultivars to V. dahliae in Xinjiang. Lignin staining experiments further showed that the lignin content increased in both resistant and susceptible varieties after inoculation with V. dahliae.

Discussion

This study not only provides insights into the molecular mechanisms of resistance to Verticillium wilt in Xinjiang upland cotton but also offers important candidate gene resources for molecular breeding of resistance to Verticillium wilt in cotton.
Carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus contents and their ecological stoichiometric characteristics in leaf litter from the Jianfengling Tropical Montane Rainforest
Authors: Yin Shuxuan
Published: September 2024

Investigating carbon (C), nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) contents and ecological stoichiometric characteristics in leaf litter from tropical rainforests is crucial for elucidating nutrient cycling and energy flow in forest ecosystems. In this study, a 60-ha tropical montane rainforest dynamic monitoring plot in Jianfengling, was selected as the research site and 60 subplots were selected for detailed study. Leaf litter was collected monthly throughout 2016, branches of similar height were placed atthe four corners of each sample square to support a nylon cloth (1 m× 1 m) with 1 mm apertures. The collected plant leaves were sorted,placed into envelopes, labelled, and transported to the laboratory and samples from various plant species were identified, resulting in a total of 107 samples collected and analyzed. For the 31 dominant species, the leaf litter had C, N and P contents of 312.71 ± 28.42, 4.95 ± 0.46 and 0.40 ± 0.03 g/kg, respectively. The C:N, C:P and N:P ratios were 63.61 ± 7.50, 790.91 ± 82.30 and 12.49 ± 1.00, respectively, indicating moderate variability. The C, N and P contents exhibited greater variability among the plant groups, indicating significant heterogeneity among the samples. In contrast, the data from the subplots exhibited less variability, highlighting significant homogeneity. Overall, the mean carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus contents in the leaf litter from tropical montane rainforests were lower than those observed at national and global scales. The N:P ratios in leaf litter below 14 indicated that nitrogen limited litter decomposition in Jianfengling. However, no significant correlations were observed between the C, N and P contents and their stoichiometric ratios in leaf litter and those in soil. The above results provide important reference data and scientific basis for the nutrient cycling and energy flow processes, and in the future, we can explore the limiting role and mechanism of nitrogen in the decomposition process of leaf litter.
The BRIDGE project: a feasibility randomised controlled trial of brief, intensive assessment and integrated formulation for young people (age 14-24) with features of borderline personality disorder (Protocol)
Authors: Gajwani Ruchika , Sim Fiona , McAllister Kirsty , Smith Helen , McIntosh Emma , Moran Paul , Ougrin Dennis , Smith Michael , Gumley Andrew Ian , Chanen Andrew M. , Minnis Helen
Published: September 2024

Background

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a severe mental disorder that is characterised by a pervasive pattern of instability of interpersonal relationships, self-image, and mood as well as marked impulsivity. BPD has its peak incidence and prevalence from puberty through to emerging adulthood. BPD is a controversial diagnosis in young people. Commonly, young people with BPD are under-diagnosed, untreated, are not in employment or training and are estranged from their families. Yet, they have complex needs and are at high suicide risk.

Aim

To assess the feasibility of conducting a randomised controlled trial (f-RCT) of a BRIDGE, a brief intervention programme for young people (age 14-24) with BPD symptoms (sub-threshold or threshold) in a community sample from Scotland, UK.

Method

Forty young people (age 14-24) meeting criteria for BPD symptoms, will be randomised in a 1:1 ratio to receive either a) the BRIDGE intervention plus service-as-usual or b) service-as-usual alone. Follow up will be 12 weeks and 24 weeks post-intervention. The study is carried out between 2021 to 2024.

Outcome

The two primary outcomes of the MQ funded, BRIDGE project (f-RCT) are i. recruitment rates and ii. retention rates. The study will present the acceptability and appropriateness of our putative outcome measures for a future definitive randomised controlled trial (d-RCT).

Impact

Young people with BPD benefit from good clinical care and targeted intervention, however are regularly missed or mislabelled. The community based feasibility trial would provide initial evidence of variable needs of young people with complex needs, who maybe missed or excluded from services as they don’t “fit” a model/diagnosis. Workable multi-agency service model proposed in the trial would be a major advance in understanding care pathways regardless of trial outcome.

Clinical Trial Registration

ClinicalTrial.gov, identifier NCT05023447
Depression severity and verbal comprehension in children and adolescents with a major depressive episode
Authors: Trasolini Monia , Serra Giulia , Iannoni Maria Elena , Andracchio Elisa , Apicella Massimo , Maglio Gino , Menghini Deny , Vicari Stefano
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Severe depression is a prevalent psychiatric illness in children and adolescents associated with high levels of morbidity, disability, and a high risk of suicidal behavior. Cognitive factors associated with depression severity in juveniles have been poorly reported.

Methods

We investigated the relationship between depression severity and intelligence quotient (IQ)with its subscales in 65 juveniles (aged 10–17 years) with a current major depressive episode evaluated at the Mood Disorder Program of Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital in Rome. Pearson’s correlation analyses were followed by a Benjamini–Hochberg correction and linear multivariable regression model.

Results

Depression severity measured with the total score of the Children’s Depression Rating Scale-Revised (CDRS-R) was positively associated with the Verbal Comprehension Index (VCI; Pearson’s r = 0.309 [0.042−0.534]; p = 0.024). The CDRS-R subscales positively associated with VCI by Pearson’s correlation were depressed feelings, suicidal ideation, excessive weeping, and reduced facial expressions. Suicidal ideation was the only factor independently and significantly associated with higher VCI in the multivariable linear regression model.

Discussion

Suicidal ideation was significantly and independently associated with higher verbal comprehension, indicating that depressed juveniles with better verbal ability may be at a greater risk of showing suicidal ideation.
The current situation of health equity in underserved areas of Afghanistan
Authors: Salem Marwa Rashad , Hegazy Nelly , Eldeeb Sherif , Shaguy Jerome A. , Nassery Ramesh Mohammad , Khawari Abdullah , Tanoli Jamshed , Abouzeid Alaa
Published: September 2024

Background

In Afghanistan, providing universal health coverage (UHC) in accordance with the principles of the UHC declaration is challenging on two fronts: the geographic topography of the country and the prevailing gender dynamics within the local culture.

Methods

We conducted a desk review of underserved areas in the context of health services by gathering and analyzing existing literature, reports, and data using a combination of keywords and phrases such as: “underserved areas,” “healthcare disparities,” “access to healthcare,” and “health services.” The primary data were derived from an analysis of underserved populations conducted by the World Health Organization (WHO) Afghanistan's Emergency Program, supplemented by information from in-country partners. In addition to other reports, this review focused on analyzing the geographical availability of primary healthcare (PHC) services by employing the guidelines set forth in the SPHERE framework. It also took into account the social dynamics within the Afghan population that may create barriers to equity in terms of demand and access to PHC services.

Results

Although there are a significant number of primary healthcare facilities in operation (4,242), they are unevenly distributed across different regions of Afghanistan, resulting in almost 25% of the population being underserved. The underserved population is nearly equally distributed between genders, with the majority residing in rural communities. Women of childbearing age represent 28% of the underserved population. Children under the age of five represent 16–18% of the underserved population in all regions, except in the western region, where they represent between 12 and 13%. Individuals over 60 years of age represent 1–3% of the underserved population across all regions. More than 50% of the population in the Central Highlands of Afghanistan is underserved, followed by the western and southern regions. Ghor province in the western region has the highest proportion of underserved populations, followed by Zabul province in the southern region.

Conclusion

Afghanistan is currently experiencing a protracted humanitarian crisis, with millions of people living in poverty and lacking access to healthcare. This situation exposes them to serious risks such as disease epidemics, starvation, and maternal and child mortality. It is crucial to implement alternative strategies to reach the most affected populations and to increase funding for the delivery of healthcare services in Afghanistan.
Analysis of the structure and trend prediction of China’s total health expenditure
Authors: Li Hong-yan , Zhang Rui-xue
Published: September 2024

Background

In the context of rapid economic and social development, there has been a continuous intensification of population aging, transformation of disease patterns, and wide application of new medical technologies. As a result, health expenditures in various countries have sharply soared. How to utilize limited medical resources to maximize the improvement of health levels has become a hot and challenging issue related to the well-being of all humanity. The relevant indicators of total health expenditure play a crucial role in monitoring and evaluating the fairness of health financing and health security in the region.

Objective

This study explores the changes in the main expenses that constitute China’s total health expenditure and uses indicators related to health expenditure to observe the changes and future development trends of China’s health expenditure. Based on this, the utilization of China’s health expenditure is monitored to identify possible problems, and thereby targeted suggestions for promoting the development of China’s health and wellness cause are put forward.

Methods

Based on the comparison of previous literature, this paper analyzes the changes and future development trends in China’s health expenditure by using the relevant indicators of China’s health expenditure through the structural variation analysis method and the gray prediction model.

Results

The results show that the scale of government, social, and out-of-pocket health expenditures has continuously expanded, with social health expenditures becoming the main funding source for total health expenditures. The burden of medical expenditures on individuals has been further reduced. In the institutional method of total health expenditures, hospital expenditures account for about 60% of the total and are the main component. The expenditures of health administration and medical insurance management institutions are the main driving force behind the growth of total health expenditures. However, the proportion of health expenditures in China’s GDP is relatively low, so more investment is needed in the healthcare sector, and the burden of individual medical expenses also needs to be continuously reduced.

Discussion

In the future, China should further increase its investment in the medical and health sector. Specifically, the government should persist in investing in fundamental medical and health services. Simultaneously, efforts should be made to establish a scientific cost control mechanism for pharmaceuticals and broaden financing channels for healthcare, such as accelerating the development of commercial health insurance.
Systematic review in relation to support of diversity in nursing homes
Authors: Mesas-Fernández Javier , Tous-Pallarès Jordi , Espinoza-Díaz Ivette Margarita
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Given the increasing global population of older adults, it is essential and inevitable that healthcare centers and nursing homes address and accommodate diversity in their support systems as interventions for healthy aging. The active aging and the inclusion of all people regardless of their religion, origin, and/or sexual orientation is essential to create a climate of safety. Discrimination must be addressed from all angles, at the social level, at the business level and by all workers in nursing homes.

Methodology and results

This study provides a comprehensive review of existing literature to systematize information on diversity among older adults in healthcare centers and nursing homes. Out of 1.458 articles identified, 10 were analyzed in depth, revealing that addressing diversity among older adults is crucial to overall mental and physical healthy aging. The findings underscore the need for a multidisciplinary approach and effective management through the Person-Centered Care Model (PCCM).

Discussion and conclusion

This study highlights the critical role of the Person-Centered Care Model (PCCM) in addressing diversity in aging needs. It highlights the necessity of tailoring care based on individual life histories and experiences. Additionally, it calls for the implementation of inclusive policies in nursing homes and emphasizes the need for professional training on diversity to ensure these facilities are safe and supportive for all residents.
Vertical farming goes dynamic: optimizing resource use efficiency, product quality, and energy costs
Authors: Kaiser Elias , Kusuma Paul , Vialet-Chabrand Silvere , Folta Kevin , Liu Ying , Poorter Hendrik , Woning Nik , Shrestha Samikshya , Ciarreta Aitor , van Brenk Jordan , Karpe Margarethe , Ji Yongran , David Stephan , Zepeda Cristina , Zhu Xin-Guang , Huntenburg Katharina , Verdonk Julian C. , Woltering Ernst , Gauthier Paul P. G. , Courbier Sarah , Taylor Gail , Marcelis Leo F. M.
Published: September 2024

Vertical farming is considered to be a key enabler for transforming agrifood systems, especially in or nearby urbanized areas. Vertical farming systems (VFS) are advanced indoor cropping systems that allow for highly intensified and standardized plant production. The close control of environmental parameters makes crop production stable and repeatable, ensuring year-round uniform product quality and quantity irrespective of location. However, due to continuous changes in plant physiology and development, as well as frequent changes in electricity prices, the optimum conditions for crop production and its associated costs can change within days or even minutes. This makes it beneficial to dynamically adjust setpoints for light (intensity, spectrum, pattern, and daylength), CO2, temperature, humidity, air flow, and water and nutrient availability. In this review, we highlight the beneficial effects that dynamic growth conditions can have on key plant processes, including improvements in photosynthetic gas exchange, transpiration, organ growth, development, light interception, flowering, and product quality. Our novel findings based on modeling and experimentation demonstrate that a dynamic daily light intensity pattern that responds to frequent changes in electricity prices can save costs without reducing biomass. Further, we argue that a smart, dynamic VFS climate management requires feedback mechanisms: several mobile and immobile sensors could work in combination to continuously monitor the crop, generating data that feeds into crop growth models, which, in turn, generate climate setpoints. In addition, we posit that breeding for the VFS environment is at a very early stage and highlight traits for breeding for this specialized environment. We envision a continuous feedback loop between dynamic crop management, crop monitoring, and trait selection for genotypes that are specialized for these conditions.
Molecular mechanism of Dang-Shen-Yu-Xing decoction against Mycoplasma bovis pneumonia based on network pharmacology, molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations and experimental verification
Authors: Yang Mengmeng , Yang Fei , Guo Yanan , Liu Fan , Li Yong , Qi Yanrong , Guo Lei , He Shenghu
Published: September 2024

Mycoplasma bovis pneumonia is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by Mycoplasma bovis. It is particularly prevalent in calves, posing a significant threat to animal health and leading to substantial economic losses. Dang-Shen-Yu-Xing decoction is often used to treat this condition in veterinary clinics. It exhibits robust anti-inflammatory effects and can alleviate pulmonary fibrosis. However, its mechanism of action remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to preliminarily explore the molecular mechanism of Dang-Shen-Yu-Xing decoction for treating mycoplasma pneumonia in calves through a combination of network pharmacology, molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulation methods, and experimental validation. The active components and related targets of Dang-Shen-Yu-Xing decoction were extracted from several public databases. Additionally, complex interactions between drugs and targets were explored through network topology, Gene Ontology, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analyses. Subsequently, the binding affinity of drug to disease-related targets was verified through molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation. Finally, the pharmacodynamics were verified via animal experiments. The primary network topology analysis revealed two core targets and 10 key active components of Dang-Shen-Yu-Xing decoction against Mycoplasma bovis pneumonia. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analysis showed that the mechanism of Dang-Shen-Yu-Xing decoction for treating mycoplasma bovis pneumonia involved multiple signaling pathways, with the main pathways including PI3K-Akt and IL17 signaling pathways. Moreover, molecular docking predicted the binding affinity and conformation of the core targets of Dang-Shen-Yu-Xing decoction, IL6, and IL10, with the associated main active ingredients. The results showed a strong binding of the active ingredients to the hub target. Further, molecular docking dynamics simulation revealed three key active components of IL10 induced by Dang-Shen-Yu-Xing decoction against Mycoplasma bovis pneumonia. Finally, animal experiments confirmed Dang-Shen-Yu-Xing decoction pharmacodynamics, suggesting that it holds potential as an alternative therapy for treating mycoplasma bovis pneumonia.
Strategies, challenges, and outcomes of heat stress resilience in sub-Saharan African community-based cattle feedlots: a systematic review
Authors: Slayi Mhlangabezi , Zhou Leocadia , Jaja Ishmael Festus
Published: September 2024

In sub-Saharan Africa, cattle feedlots face a significant challenge in dealing with heat stress. However, there is a lack of inclusive strategies for resilience in these situations. The aim of this systematic review is to investigate the strategies, challenges, and outcomes related to heat stress resilience in community-based cattle feedlots in sub-Saharan Africa. The PRISMA approach, which is a method for reporting systematic reviews and meta-analyses, was used to identify, screen, and analyze 30 peer-reviewed articles published over the last 20 years from Google Scholar and Scopus. The review found that key strategies to mitigate heat stress include providing shade through natural and artificial means, ensuring constant access to cool, clean water using water spraying systems and cooling ponds, and implementing nutritional adjustments such as high-energy feeds and electrolyte supplements. Additionally, genetic selection for heat-tolerant breeds and management practices like adjusting feeding times and improving ventilation were found to be effective in dealing with heat stress. In particular, local germplasm and genetic traits of cattle in sub-Saharan Africa play a crucial role in heat stress resilience. Indigenous breeds, which have adapted to the region’s harsh climate over centuries, exhibit traits such as higher heat tolerance, better water-use efficiency, and improved feed conversion rates under heat stress conditions. This genetic resilience can be enhanced through targeted breeding programs aimed at amplifying these beneficial traits. Implementing these strategies resulted in improved cattle health and productivity, as evidenced by enhanced weight gain, better reproductive performance, and lower mortality rates. The socio-economic benefits of these strategies included reduced economic losses and increased farmer incomes, which in turn contributed to improved community health and nutrition. However, the review also identified significant challenges, including financial constraints, limited access to knowledge and training, and cultural resistance. To address these barriers, the review recommends increased investment in affordable cooling technologies, farmer education, and community-based initiatives. Additionally, leveraging the genetic strengths of local cattle breeds should be prioritized to maximize the effectiveness of heat stress resilience strategies.
Seroprevalence of dengue, yellow fever, and related flaviviruses among the rural human population in Nguruman and Kerio Valley, Kenya
Authors: Kibathi Mercy Hokah , Chepkorir Edith , Mabeya Sepha Nyatichi , Tchouassi David P. , Sang Rosemary
Published: September 2024

Background

Yellow fever virus (YFV) and dengue virus (DENV) are among the major re-emerging arboviruses that pose a significant threat to public health. Their associated burden and prevalence can be substantially underestimated due to insufficient surveillance and inadequate diagnosis. This study aimed to determine evidence of dengue, yellow and related flaviviruses circulation among the rural human populations residing in Nguruman (Kajiado County) and Kerio Valley (Baringo County), two dryland ecosystems in the Kenyan Rift Valley.

Methods

Serum samples obtained from febrile patients between 5 and 85 years through a hospital-based cross-sectional survey from July 2020 – May 2023, were screened for neutralizing antibodies to YFV, DENV-2 and related flaviviruses, West Nile virus (WNV) and Zika virus (ZIKV) via Plaque reduction neutralization test (PRNT). The study sites and important demographic characteristics were obtained using a structural questionnaire and the data analyzed and seroprevalence compared. A multinomial logistic regression model was done to predict risk for each of the most prevalent viruses with covariates; age, gender, and occupation.

Results

Overall, 54.5% (50.1–59.0% 95% confidence interval (CI) of the samples tested positive for at least one of the four Flaviviruses. The percentage was significantly higher in Kerio Valley (64.34%, 184/286) than in Nguruman (40.2%, 78/194) (P<0.0001). YFV had the highest prevalence, followed by WNV (16.25%), ZIKV (5.2%), and DENV-2 (1%). Kerio Valley had a significantly higher YFV seroprevalence (51%) than Nguruman (6%) (P<0.0001), while DENV-2 was observed only in Nguruman with a low seropositivity of 2%. In contrast to Nguruman, where seropositivity rates were higher in males at 47.47% (P=0.049), in Kerio Valley, females showed considerably higher viral seropositivity at 60.82% than males (P<0001).

Conclusion

The study suggests that there is significant circulation of Flaviviruses in both regions, posing a public health risk, that could potentially contribute to clinical disease. However, seropositivity rates vary for each specific site. Furthermore, there could be a risk of YFV, WNV, and ZIKV transmission in both sites with DENV transmission specifically noted in Nguruman. The study findings inform direct cost-effective actions (such as YF vaccines) and precise surveillance data of vector populations for improved disease risk prediction.
Connected and Autonomous Vehicle Scheduling Problems: Some Models and Algorithms
Authors: Gafarov Evgeny R. , Werner Frank
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we consider some problems that arise in connected and autonomous vehicle (CAV) systems. Their simplified variants can be formulated as scheduling problems. Therefore, scheduling solution algorithms can be used as a part of solution algorithms for real-world problems. For four variants of such problems, mathematical models and solution algorithms are presented. In particular, three polynomial algorithms and a branch and bound algorithm are developed. These CAV scheduling problems are considered in the literature for the first time. More complicated NP-hard scheduling problems related to CAVs can be considered in the future.
Application of Particle Swarm Optimization to a Hybrid H∞/Sliding Mode Controller Design for the Triple Inverted Pendulum System
Authors: Shafeek Yamama A. , Ali Hazem I.
Published: September 2024

The robotics field of engineering has been witnessing rapid advancements and becoming widely engaged in our lives recently. Its application has pervaded various areas that range from household services to agriculture, industry, military, and health care. The humanoid robots are electro–mechanical devices that are constructed in the semblance of humans and have the ability to sense their environment and take actions accordingly. The control of humanoids is broken down to the following: sensing and perception, path planning, decision making, joint driving, stability and balance. In order to establish and develop control strategies for joint driving, stability and balance, the triple inverted pendulum is used as a benchmark. As the presence of uncertainty is inevitable in this system, the need to develop a robust controller arises. The robustness is often achieved at the expense of performance. Hence, the controller design has to be optimized based on the resultant control system’s performance and the required torque. Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) is an excellent algorithm in finding global optima, and it can be of great help in automatic tuning of the controller design. This paper presents a hybrid H∞/sliding mode controller optimized by the PSO algorithm to control the triple inverted pendulum system. The developed control system is tested by applying it to the nominal, perturbed by parameter variation, perturbed by external disturbance, and perturbed by measurement noise system. The average error in all cases is 0.053 deg and the steady controller effort range is from 0.13 to 0.621 N.m with respect to amplitude. The system’s robustness is provided by the hybrid H∞/sliding mode controller and the system’s performance and efficiency enhancement are provided by optimization.
The Genetic Diversity of 69 Widely Used Chinese Sorghum Hybrids Released between the 1970s and 2010s
Authors: Yan Haisheng , Lv Na , Yin Feng , Wang Yubin , Niu Hao , Lv Xin , Chu Jianqiang , Fan Fangfang , Ju Lan , Yu Jizhen , Zhang Fuyao , Ping Junai
Published: September 2024

Sorghum has a long history of cultivation in China. In this study, we aimed to clarify the genetic relationships and genetic variation trends in widely used Chinese sorghum hybrids which were released from the 1970s to 2010s and attempted to analyze the changes in sorghum breeding. A total of 257 alleles were detected by 51 polymorphic SSR markers among 69 widely used hybrids; an average of 5.04 alleles were detected by each marker. The average Shannon’s index and polymorphism information content (PIC) of markers were 1.39 and 0.70, respectively. Nei’s genetic diversity index continuously increased in four different breeding development stages (1973–1982, 1983–1992, 1993–2002, and 2003–2014). Genetic diversity gradually increased among the sorghum hybrids. Genetic similarity coefficients in the four breeding development stages first showed an increasing trend, and then a decreasing trend, finally stabilizing with an average value of 0.65. The genetic similarity changes in hybrids in early and late maturing areas were consistent at different breeding development stages. The genetic similarity coefficients in late maturing areas were constantly higher than those in the early maturing areas. This is related to China’s creative utilization of A2 cytoplasmic male sterile materials in the 1990s. A cluster analysis determined that 69 hybrids were divided into two groups, A and B. Group A could be further subdivided into four subgroups. These findings could provide a reference for parental selection and hybrid breeding in sorghum improvement programs.
Sentinel-2 Multispectral Satellite Remote Sensing Retrieval of Soil Cu Content Changes at Different pH Levels
Authors: Guo Hongxu , Wu Fan , Yang Kai , Yang Ziyan , Chen Zeyu , Chen Dongbin , Xiao Rongbo
Published: September 2024

With the development of multispectral imaging technology, retrieving soil heavy metal content using multispectral remote sensing images has become possible. However, factors such as soil pH and spectral resolution affect the accuracy of model inversion, leading to low precision. In this study, 242 soil samples were collected from a typical area of the Pearl River Delta, and the Cu content in the soil was detected in the laboratory. Simultaneously, Sentinel-2 remote sensing image data were collected, and two-dimensional and three-dimensional spectral indices were established. Constructing independent decision trees based on pH values, using the Successive Projections Algorithm (SPA) combined with the Boruta algorithm to select the characteristic bands for soil Cu content, and this was combined with Optuna automatic hyperparameter optimization for ensemble learning models to establish a model for estimating Cu content in soil. The research results indicated that in the SPA combined with the Boruta feature selection algorithm, the characteristic spectral indices were mainly concentrated in the spectral transformation forms of TBI2 and TBI4. Full-sample modeling lacked predictive ability, but after classifying the samples based on soil pH value, the R2 of the RF and XGBoost models constructed with the samples with pH values between 5.85 and 7.75 was 0.54 and 0.76, respectively, with corresponding RMSE values of 22.48 and 16.12 and RPD values of 1.51 and 2.11. This study shows that the inversion of soil Cu content under different pH conditions exhibits significant differences, and determining the optimal pH range can effectively improve inversion accuracy. This research provides a reference for further achieving the efficient and accurate remote sensing of heavy metal pollution in agricultural soil.
Alfalfa Increases the Soil N Utilization Efficiency in Degraded Black Soil Farmland and Alleviates Nutrient Limitations in Soil Microbes
Authors: Mei Linlin , Lin Yulong , Li Ang , Xu Lingdi , Cao Yuqi , Cui Guowen
Published: September 2024

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) can fix N naturally within soils, which makes alfalfa cultivation useful for enhancing soil fertility while minimizing environmental impacts from pesticides, fertilizers, and soil pollution. To assess the influence of alfalfa cropping on degraded black soil, we determined the nutrient stoichiometry of the soil and soil microbial biomass under four corn cultivation systems at the Harbin Corn Demonstration Base (Heilongjiang, China), which is located in Wujia (126°23′ E, 45°31′ N), Shuangcheng district, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province. The cultivation systems included continuous corn cultivation for more than 30 years (CK), 2 years of alfalfa–corn rotation (AC), three years of alfalfa cropping (TA), and four years of alfalfa cropping (FA). Overall, AC, TA, and FA treatment increased the soil pH, reduced the soil salinity, and increased the organic matter content of the 0–15 cm soil layer. TA and FA presented soil nutrient levels comparable to those of degraded cornfields that were fertilized annually. The TA and FA treatments increased the soil available N:P, soil N:P, and soil C:P ratios. Moreover, TA significantly increased the soil microbial biomass P (SMBP) in the 0–15 cm (surface) soil layer and reduced the soil microbial biomass C (SMBC):SMBP ratio. AC, TA, and FA increased the storage and mineralization rates of soil N and alleviated the microbial P limitations in degraded black soil farmland. Compared with FA, TA resulted in greater improvements in the quality of degraded black soil farmland. The ability of alfalfa to enhance soil fertility makes an important component of sustainable agricultural practices aimed at rehabilitating degraded soils.
Effects of Water, Fertilizer and Heat Coupling on Soil Hydrothermal Conditions and Yield and Quality of Annona squamosa
Authors: Wang Weihua , Bai Ting , Liu Xingwen
Published: September 2024

Seasonal drought and summer soil high-temperature stress in Southern China often lead to decreased yield and quality of Annona squamosa. It is important to explore reasonable and effective water and fertilizer management measures as well as cover measures to improve the soil hydrothermal conditions in orchards to realize the increase in yield and quality of Annona squamosa. This study involved a two-year (2022–2023) field experiment in Yun County, Lincang City, Yunnan Province, using three factors and a three-level orthogonal test, resulting in nine different experimental treatments for water, fertilizer and heat. The three irrigation levels were W1 (soil moisture content of 55% of field moisture capacity), W2 (soil moisture content of 75% of field moisture capacity) and W3 (soil moisture content of 85% of field moisture capacity). The three fertilizer levels were F1 (1666 kg·hm−2), F2 (2083 kg·hm−2) and F3 (2500 kg·hm−2), and the three cover methods were A1 (no cover), A2 (fresh grass cover) and A3 (straw cover). The effects of these treatments on soil hydrothermal conditions, growth indices and fruit yield and quality of Annona s1uamosa were systematically monitored and analyzed, and the relationships between these treatments and yield and quality was analyzed based on a Mantel test. The results showed that T5 (W2F2A3) had the highest average soil moisture content over two years, followed by T7 (W3F1A3). The T7 (W3F1A3) treatment effectively reduced soil temperature by 5 °C compared to T1 (W1F1A1). T5 (W2F2A3) had the highest average yield over two years, with an increase of 33.99% compared to T1 (W1F1A1). Additionally, T5 (W2F2A3) has the highest average soluble solids, soluble sugars and vitamin C content over two years, with increases of 28.13%, 13.36% and 4.86%, respectively, compared to T1 (W1F1A1). A Pearson correlation analysis showed that there was a significant correlation between Annona squamosa growth and soil moisture content and soil temperature, and the Mantel test showed that soil hydrothermal conditions had significant influence on the growth and yield. T5 (W2F2A3) has the highest comprehensive benefit in promoting growth, increasing yield and improving quality for the plant. The effects of different irrigation quantities, fertilizer amounts and different cover measures on the coupling interaction for soil hydrothermal status in the root zone, growth, yield and quality of Annona squamosa were investigated, providing reliable theoretical support for the scientific planting model of Annona squamosa in the low-heat river valley of Yunnan Province.
Long-Term Effects of No-Tillage on Arthropod Biodiversity in Rainfed and Irrigated Annual Crops
Authors: Moreno-García Manuel , Repullo-Ruibérriz de Torres Miguel A. , Ordóñez-Fernández Rafaela , González-Sánchez Emilio J. , Carbonell-Bojollo Rosa M.
Published: September 2024

Numerous studies show that tillage has a negative impact on the future sustainability of annual crops. Possible negative effects include the loss of arthropod biodiversity on the soil surface. In this context, a comparative study was carried out between tillage and no-tillage plots after four years of differentiated management. Research was carried out on a rotation of rainfed annual crops and on an irrigated maize monoculture. It was found that no-tillage of annual crops was beneficial in increasing the overall diversity and abundance of arthropod species. The dominance of three orders of arthropods on the surface of annual crops was confirmed, corresponding to the increased presence of morphospecies and individual beetles, ants and spiders. In rainfed crops, a significant increase in morphospecies was observed in no-tillage (19.5) compared to conventional tillage (16.2). In irrigated crops, the average abundance of arthropods in no-tillage (96.7) was significantly higher than in conventional tillage (57.8). Arthropod diversity on the soil surface was mainly influenced by the management system used (tillage or no-tillage), followed by soil carbon content and irrigation (irrigation or no irrigation).