bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Eye-Tracking Beyond Peripersonal Space in Virtual Reality: Validation and Best Practices
Authors: Lamb Maurice , Brundin Malin , Perez Luque Estela , Billing Erik
Published: April 2022

Recent developments in commercial virtual reality (VR) hardware with embedded eye-tracking create tremendous opportunities for human subjects researchers. Accessible eye-tracking in VR opens new opportunities for highly controlled experimental setups in which participants can engage novel 3D digital environments. However, because VR embedded eye-tracking differs from the majority of historical eye-tracking research, in both providing for relatively unconstrained movement and stimulus presentation distances, there is a need for greater discussion around methods for implementation and validation of VR based eye-tracking tools. The aim of this paper is to provide a practical introduction to the challenges of, and methods for, 3D gaze-tracking in VR with a focus on best practices for results validation and reporting. Specifically, first, we identify and define challenges and methods for collecting and analyzing 3D eye-tracking data in VR. Then, we introduce a validation pilot study with a focus on factors related to 3D gaze tracking. The pilot study provides both a reference data point for a common commercial hardware/software platform (HTC Vive Pro Eye) and illustrates the proposed methods. One outcome of this study was the observation that accuracy and precision of collected data may depend on stimulus distance, which has consequences for studies where stimuli is presented on varying distances. We also conclude that vergence is a potentially problematic basis for estimating gaze depth in VR and should be used with caution as the field move towards a more established method for 3D eye-tracking.
Low Cost, Recyclable and Magnetic Moringa Oleifera Leaves for Chromium(VI) Removal From Water
Authors: Masekela Daniel , Yusuf Tunde L. , Hintsho-Mbita Nomso C. , Mabuba Nonhlangabezo
Published: April 2022

Chromium(VI) a heavy metal by nature, is one of the most toxic metals in the environment. We recently reported functionalized Moringa Oleifera (FMO) leaves as a low cost and efficient adsorbent for the removal of Cr(VI) and bacterial from water, as a continuation, we report the incorporation of magnetic nanoparticles (Fe3O4) with previously studied FMO for Cr(VI) removal from aqueous solution. Iron oxide due to its magnetic properties has been shown to assist in the recovery of its adsorbents. In this study, in-situ co-precipitation synthesis of iron nanoparticles onto FMO was employed. During chemical precipitation, the iron precipitate tends to cover the FMO thus forming some outer-shell coating of magnetite on the surface of FMO. The Fe3O4/FMO was characterized using XRD, FTIR, SEM, BET, TGA and Zeta potential. FTIR results showed a new developed intense peak at 685.6 cm−1 for Fe-O stretching, indicating successful incorporation of Fe3O4 nanoparticles onto FMO. Powder XRD was further use to confirm the formation and further indicated that the structure of FMO was still intact even after the Fe3O4 incorporation. The adsorption conditions such as pH, dosage, time and concentration were optimized to 2, 0.15 g, 25 min and 20 mg/L, respectively. The adsorbent was selective toward Cr(VI) since 99% was removed in the presence of interfering ions (20–100 mg/L). The adsorbent (Fe3O4/FMO) could also be reused up to 4 times with a percentage Cr(VI) removal of >80% in the 4th cycle. Adsorption kinetics studies obeyed pseudo second-order model, suggesting a chemical interaction mechanism (chemisorption) between Fe3O4/FMO and Cr(VI). Therefore, the adsorbent has shown that it can be used for selective removal of Cr(VI) from wastewater and potentially other heavy metals as well.
Women's Experience of Depressive Symptoms While Working From Home During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Evidence From an International Web Survey
Authors: Burn Emily , Tattarini Giulia , Williams Iestyn , Lombi Linda , Gale Nicola Kay
Published: April 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic led to significant changes in workplace practices as social distancing requirements meant that people were asked to work from home where possible to avoid unnecessary contact. Concerns have been raised about the effects of the pandemic on mental health and, in particular, the effects of social distancing on employed women's mental health. In this study, we explore the experiences of working women during the initial stages of the COVID-19 pandemic and explore the factors that may be associated with women experiencing the symptoms of depression. Findings from a cross-sectional survey of European working women (across five countries: France, Italy, Poland, Sweden, and the UK) conducted between March and July 2020 are reported. The data are analyzed using linear regression and mediation analysis. For women, working from home was associated with higher prevalence of the symptoms of depression compared to traveling to a workplace. The study also considers the mechanisms that may explain a relationship between working from home and depressive symptoms. Maintaining contact with people face-to-face and participating in exercise were both significant protective factors against experiencing symptoms of depression during a period of social distancing.
Case Report: Ultrasonography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Anterior Segment Dysgenesis in a Calf
Authors: Tsuka Takeshi , Okamoto Yoshiharu , Sunden Yuji , Morita Takehito , Amaha Takao , Ito Norihiko , Murahata Yusuke , Yamashita Masamichi , Osaki Tomohiro , Imagawa Tomohiro
Published: April 2022

This study includes diagnostic efficacy of the antemortem, combined use of ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the diagnosis of anterior segment dysgenesis. A 7-day-old male Holstein calf presented with progressive unilateral exophthalmos associated with enlargement of the right eyeball soon after birth. Ultrasonography of the enlarged right eyeball showed (1) a 2-cm-thick echogenic parenchymal lesion filling the anterior region of the right eyeball, (2) excess accumulation of the anechoic vitreous humor, and (3) absence of the lens structure. Antemortem examination using T2-weighted and fluid-attenuated inversion recovery MRI revealed a thickened, hyperintense anterior lesion and absence of the lens structure. These imaging findings were suggestive of anterior segment dysgenesis. Antemortem imaging showed no abnormalities other than the abnormal structure and size of the right eyeball; therefore, enucleation of the right eye was performed, which allowed intact healing without suppuration. Ocular ultrasonography enhanced the diagnostic accuracy due to the characteristic ultrasonographic findings of a thickened anterior lesion and absence of the lens structure in the eyeball, suggestive of anterior segment dysgenesis.
Epidemiological and Genetic Characteristics of Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus in South China Between 2017 and 2021
Authors: Fang Kui , Liu Shudan , Li Xiangmin , Chen Huanchun , Qian Ping
Published: April 2022

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) remains a major threat to the swine industry in China and has caused enormous losses every year. To monitor the epidemiological and genetic characteristics of PRRSV in South China, 6,795 clinical samples from diseased pigs were collected between 2017 and 2021, and 1,279 (18.82%) of them were positive for PRRSV by RT-PCR detecting the ORF5 gene. Phylogenetic analysis based on 479 ORF5 sequences revealed that a large proportion of them were highly-pathogenic PRRSVs (409, 85.39%) and PRRSV NADC30-like strains (66, 13.78%). Furthermore, 93.15% of these highly-pathogenic strains were found to be MLV-derived. We next recovered 11 PRRSV isolates from the positive samples and generated the whole genome sequences of them. Bioinformatic analysis showed that seven isolates were MLV-derived. Besides, six isolates were found to be recombinant strains. These eleven isolates contained different types of amino acid mutations in their GP5 and Nsp2 proteins compared to those of the PRRSVs with genome sequences publicly available in GenBank. Taken together, our findings contribute to understanding the prevalent status of PRRSV in South China and provide useful information for PRRS control especially the use of PRRSV MLV vaccines.
Distance-Dependent Migration Intention of Villagers: Comparative Study of Peri-Urban and Remote Villages in Indonesia
Authors: Hidayat Ar. Rohman T. , Onitsuka Kenichiro , Sianipar Corinthias P. M. , Hoshino Satoshi
Published: April 2022

Rural-to-urban migration disturbs essential factors of rural development, including labor forces, land ownership, and food production. To avoid late responses to emigration, scholars have begun investigating earlier stages of rural emigration. However, prior studies have focused on a single spatial entity only while also leaning toward trends in developed countries. Therefore, this study fills gaps by focusing on the differences in migration intention between villages in less developed settings. In observing the differences, this research takes peri-urban and remote villages as cases located at different distances from their nearest urban destination. This study treats migration intention as the dependent variable while using single-indicator place attachment and multi-indicator information sources as the independent variables. This work applies the Mann–Whitney U, ANOVA, and Brown–Forsythe tests on three hypotheses. This research also uses SEM-PLS to investigate the correlation model of the observed variables for each case. The results show that information sources negatively affect migration intentions in peri-urban settings. Remote rural areas also show similar results for the information sources variable; however, place attachment in remote settings significantly contributes to migration intention. These results show that place attachment and information sources contribute differently, depending on the distance to the urban area. We argue that access to public services and infrastructure contributes to the results. The findings suggest that an increased availability of information sources impedes the formation of migration intentions. Thus, this study suggests the necessity of improving rural infrastructure and public services to improve information literacy. It helps the government control rural emigration while fulfilling its obligation for rural development. It also offers better rural livelihoods during the development progress, providing economic incentives for villagers to stay in villages.
Genotype-by-Environment Interaction for the Contents of Micro-Nutrients and Protein in the Green Pods of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.)
Authors: Gerrano Abe Shegro , Thungo Zamalotshwa Goodness , Shimelis Hussein , Mashilo Jacob , Mathew Isack
Published: April 2022

Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) is a drought-tolerant legume crop widely cultivated in arid and semi-arid regions of sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), including South Africa. The leaves, young and immature pods, and grains of cowpea are a vital source of plant-based proteins and essential nutrients for human wellbeing. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of genotype-by-environment interaction (GEI) on the contents of micro-nutrients and protein content of the green pods of cowpea to recommend superior genotypes for cultivation and breeding. Fifteen genetically diverse cowpea genotypes were evaluated across six test environments in South Africa, using a randomized complete block design replicated three times. Micro-nutrients such as iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn), and total protein (TP) content were determined in the immature pods of cowpea. Data were subjected to additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) analysis. Significant (p < 0.05) genotype (G) differences were detected for Fe, Mn, Zn and TP, suggesting the presence of genetic divergence for selection. Furthermore, a significant (p < 0.05) environment (E) effect was recorded for all studied nutrient, indicating the impact of the test environments on nutrient compositions. The GEI effect was significant for all the assessed nutrients, indicating that specific and broadly adapted genotypes could be identified. Based on best linear unbiased estimates (BLUEs) and best linear unbiased predictors (BLUPs) analyses, the following ranges of nutrient compositions were observed: Fe (83.70–109.03 and 69.77–134.16 mg/kg), Mn (20.60–33.83 and 18.75–36.83 mg/kg), Zn (33.79–40.53 and 28.81 mg/kg), and TP (22.37–24.54 and 21.44–25.25 mg/kg), respectively, across the tested environments. The AMMI test procedure (FR-test) identified the first interaction principal component axis (IPCA-1) to be a significant (p < 0.05) component of the GEI, explaining >91% of phenotypic variation in nutrient contents among the tested genotypes across environments. Cowpea genotypes Meterlong Bean and TVU-14196 were identified for their high Fe, Zn and Mn contents and recommended for cultivation in Mafikeng, Potchefstroom and Roodeplaat in South Africa. For TP, genotypes Meterlong Bean and Kisumu Mix had stable performance and are recommended for production at all the test environments. The identified genotypes are recommended for future cultivation and breeding to supplement micro-nutrients and protein and combat nutrient deficiencies and malnutrition in South Africa.
Red and Blue LED Light Supplementation in the Morning Pre-activates the Photosynthetic System of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) Leaves and Promotes Plant Growth
Authors: Wang Shuya , Meng Xin , Tang Zhongqi , Wu Yue , Xiao Xuemei , Zhang Guobin , Hu Linli , Liu Zeci , Lyu Jian , Yu Jihua
Published: April 2022

Supplementary light exposure using light-emitting diodes (LEDs) promotes the growth of tomato plants in greenhouses. Owing to the biological clock in plants, determining the period during which they must be exposed to supplementary light is essential to enhance growth. In this study, we used red and blue LEDs (red:blue = 7:2) as the supplementary light source, to determine the effects of different light supplemental periods on the growth and photosynthetic characteristics of tomato seedlings. Light supplementation in the morning and evening promoted the growth of tomato plants to varying degrees, including the accumulation of photosynthetic products in the leaves. Light supplementation in the morning enhanced dry matter accumulation, root growth, and the contents of chlorophyll and carotenoids in the leaves. Although both morning and evening light supplementation increased the levels of gas exchange parameters and Rubisco activity in tomato leaves, these effects were more prominent after morning light supplementation. Furthermore, red and blue light supplementation in the morning pre-activated the key photosynthetic enzymes, promoted the synthesis and accumulation of photosynthetic pigments, increased the photosynthetic capacity of, and photosynthate production in, tomato leaves. These findings suggest that light supplementation in the morning is more effective in promoting the growth and development of tomato plants cultivated in greenhouses.
Distribution and Appearance of Arrector Pili Muscle in the Skin of the Rhesus Monkey Face
Authors: May Inga , Mätz-Rensing Kerstin , May Christian-Albrecht
Published: April 2022

Although the presence of an arrector pili smooth muscle is documented in many monkey species, its regional peculiarities are hitherto not well documented. We aimed to study this aspect in the face of rhesus monkeys with different areas of hair coat. Eight different regions of six monkeys (male and female) were studied using light microscopy and immunohistochemistry (antibody against smooth muscle alpha actin). We identified two regions (lips and eyelids) with vellus hairs that did not show an arrector pili muscle. In the eyelids, the hairs are rather small and short; in the lips, the vellus hairs were surrounded by striated muscle fibers from the orbicularis oris muscle. In all other regions (frontal region, forehead, cheek, chin), the vellus hairs contained an arrector pili muscle with comparable morphology. Only in the chin region, where additional striated muscles from the face muscles were present, the arrector pili muscles were thinner. All vibrissae showed a close relation to striated muscle fiber bundles of the facial muscles. They never developed smooth muscle bundles assigned as arrector pili equivalent.
Epidemiology and Survival of Dogs Diagnosed with Splenic Lymphoid Hyperplasia, Complex Hyperplasia, Stromal Sarcoma and Histiocytic Sarcoma
Authors: Spröhnle-Barrera Cleide H. , McGhie Jayne , Allavena Rachel E. , Owen Helen C. , Palmieri Chiara , Barnes Tamsin S.
Published: April 2022

Canine splenic fibrohistiocytic nodules traditionally encompassed benign lymphoid hyperplasia, complex hyperplasia, and malignant fibrous histiocytoma. The latter has been recently re-classified into histiocytic sarcoma and stromal sarcoma. Reliable indicators of post-splenectomy survival and demographic factors predisposing to the four types of nodules are not completely understood. This study aims to estimate frequency, survival times, and identify risk factors of splenectomized dogs diagnosed with lymphoid hyperplasia, complex hyperplasia, histiocytic sarcoma, and stromal sarcoma using medical records containing histopathological diagnosis from the VetCompass Australia database (1989–2018), which collects demographic, and clinical information from veterinary clinics. Out of 693 dogs, 315 were diagnosed with fibrohistiocytic nodules, mostly lymphoid hyperplasia (169/693, 24.4%), followed by stromal sarcoma (59/693, 8.5%), complex hyperplasia (55/693, 7.9%), and histiocytic sarcoma (32/693, 4.6%). Dogs aged 8–10 years were more likely to be diagnosed with histiocytic or stromal sarcoma than lymphoid hyperplasia. Dogs diagnosed with lymphoid hyperplasia had a longer survival time than those with other diagnoses (median > 2 years). Dogs diagnosed with histiocytic sarcoma had longer survival times (median 349 days) than stromal sarcoma (median 166 days). Results suggest that knowledge of the type of splenic fibrohistiocytic nodule, patients’ age, and sex can be used to increase prognostic accuracy.
An Open-Hardware Insemination Device for Small-Bodied Live-Bearing Fishes to Support Development and Use of Germplasm Repositories
Authors: Harmon Elise R. , Liu Yue , Shamkhalichenar Hamed , Browning Valentino , Savage Markita , Tiersch Terrence R. , Monroe William Todd
Published: April 2022

Small-bodied live-bearing fishes attract broad attention because of their importance in biomedical research and critical conservation status in natural habitats. Artificial insemination is an essential process to establish hybrid lines and for the operation of sperm repositories. The existing mouth-pipetting technique for artificial insemination of live-bearing fishes has not been substantially upgraded since the first implementation in the 1950s. The goal of this work was to develop a standardized artificial inseminator device (SAID) to address issues routinely encountered in insemination by mouth-pipetting, including lack of reproducibility among different users, difficulty in training, and large unreportable variation in sample volume and pressure during insemination. Prototypes of the SAID were designed as relatively inexpensive (<USD 80) open hardware based on commercially available and 3-D printed components to enable broad community access. A linear actuator was used to accurately control the position of a piston for fluid transfer with a standard deviation of <0.1 mm over a 4 mm range of travel. The volume of sample transfer was precisely controlled with a linear relationship (r2 > 0.99) between the piston position and volume. Pressure generation from eight mouth-pipetting operators and SAID prototypes were assessed by pressure sensors. The pressure control by SAID was superior to that produced by mouth-pipetting, yielding lower pressures (31–483 Pa) and smaller variations (standard deviation <11 Pa). These pressures were sufficient to deliver 1–5 μL of fluid into female reproductive tracts yet low enough to avoid physical injury to fish. Community-level enhancements of the SAID prototype could enable standardized insemination with minimal training and facilitate the participation of research communities in the use of cryopreserved genetic resources.
First Molecular Survey to Detect Mycoplasma gallisepticum and Mycoplasma synoviae in Poultry Farms in a Strategic Production District of Sicily (South-Italy)
Authors: Galluzzo Paola , Migliore Sergio , Galuppo Lucia , Condorelli Lucia , Hussein Hany A. , Licitra Francesca , Coltraro Miriana , Sallemi Sabrina , Antoci Francesco , Cascone Giuseppe , Puleio Roberto , Loria Guido Ruggero
Published: April 2022

Mycoplasmas are recognized as avian pathogens, which may cause both respiratory disease and synovial infections in poultry, resulting in severe economic losses. Our study aims to determine the occurrence of Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) and Mycoplasma synoviae (MS) among commercial and rural laying hens located in Ragusa province (South Italy), using a duplex real time PCR. Four hundred tracheal swabs were collected from seven commercial (200 swabs) and 25 rural (200 swabs) farms without any clinical disease history. Out of 400 swabs collected, 50 (12.5%) and 93 (23.25%) were positive for MG and MS, respectively. In particular, 9 (18%) and 22 (23.65%) positive swabs for MG and MS, respectively, originated from commercial farms, compared to 41 (82%) and 71 (76.34%) obtained from rural farms. Data obtained show a lower prevalence of MG than MS in the studied farms. Moreover, both pathogens were spread in rural and commercial farms. PCR could be concluded as a rapid and sensitive method for the identification of MG and MS in areas where commercial farms that are declared Mycoplasma-free and rural flocks coexist. These data highlight the importance of surveillance also in rural poultry to monitoring the occurrence of mycoplasmas strains in strategic productive districts.
Infection of a Free-Living Wild Boar (Sus scrofa) with a Bacterium from the Mycobacterium kansasii Complex
Authors: Radulski Łukasz , Krajewska-Wędzina Monika , Lipiec Marek , Szulowski Krzysztof
Published: April 2022

The most numerous group of bacteria in the genus Mycobacterium is the nontuberculous mycobacteria. Currently, over 200 species of bacteria have been classified as belonging to this group, of which approximately 30 are pathogenic to humans and animals. Mycobacterium kansasii complex numbers among these pathogenic species. The submandibular lymph nodes of a wild boar shot by a hunter were examined in order to confirm or exclude infection with bacteria of the genus Mycobacterium. In culture, a bacterial isolate was obtained after 12 days of incubation on Petragnani and Stonebrink media. A multiplex PCR clearly indicated that the isolate was a nontuberculous mycobacterium. The results of species identification attempts via both molecular biology methods and mass spectrometry confirmed that the isolated strain belonged to MKC. The described case of a wild boar infection with MKC is the first documented case in Poland and only the second in Europe, and in confirming the presence of this pathogen among free-living animals, this report implies that MKC is of great concern. Our research elucidates some specifics of wild boar mycobacteriosis and may be used to instill awareness in the public of the dangers of dressing hunt prey or consuming its meat in ignorance of safe procedures, which can contribute to the transmission of the pathogen to humans.
Cutaneous and Subcutaneous Tumours of Small Pet Mammals—Retrospective Study of 256 Cases (2014–2021)
Authors: Otrocka-Domagała Iwona , Paździor-Czapula Katarzyna , Fiedorowicz Joanna , Mikiewicz Mateusz , Piotrowska Agnieszka , Gesek Michał
Published: April 2022

Since small mammals are gaining popularity as pets in Poland, the number of tumour samples submitted for histopathological examination is quite high. This study was a retrospective analysis of cutaneous and subcutaneous tumours in small pet mammals submitted for histopathology in 2014–2021. The analysis included 256 tumours sampled from 103 guinea pigs, 53 rats, 43 pet rabbits, 21 ferrets, 17 hamsters, 8 degus, 5 African pygmy hedgehogs, 3 Mongolian gerbils and 3 chinchillas. Tumours were diagnosed based on routine histopathology, with additional immunohistochemistry when necessary. The results of this study revealed that the vast majority of cutaneous tumours in guinea pigs were benign, with a predominance of lipoma. Adnexal tumours constituted a significant percentage of cutaneous tumours in guinea pigs (24.3%, with the most common being trichofolliculoma), pet rabbits (46.5%, with the most common being trichoblastoma), ferrets (33.3%, mostly derived from sebaceous glands), hamsters (52.9%, with the most common being trichoepithelioma) and gerbils (66.7%, scent gland epithelioma). Soft tissue sarcomas were a predominant group of tumours in rats (52.8%, with the most common being fibrosarcoma), African pygmy hedgehogs (100%), degus (87.5%) and chinchillas (66.7%). Melanocytic tumours were only sporadically seen in small mammal pets. Mast cell tumours were diagnosed only in ferrets, while epitheliotropic T-cell lymphoma was diagnosed only in a hamster and a degu. In summary, malignant tumours constitute a significant percentage of cutaneous tumours in many species of small mammal pets. Therefore, each cutaneous tumour should be sampled for further cytologic or histopathologic diagnosis.
Effects of Two Commercial Protein Diets on the Health of Two Imago Ages of Apis mellifera L. Reared in Laboratory
Authors: Sagona Simona , Coppola Francesca , Nanetti Antonio , Tafi Elena , Palego Lionella , Betti Laura , Giannaccini Gino , Felicioli Antonio
Published: April 2022

Protein-supplemented artificial diets are widely used by beekeepers during winter and whenever food availability is low, yet no data are available concerning their effects on bees’ health. In this work, the effects of two commercial diets enriched with 1.7% and 7.7% protein concentration on feed intake, survival rate, glucose oxidase, phenoloxidase and glutathione S-transferase in newly emerged and forager bees were tested. Administration of a 7.7% protein-enriched diet significantly reduced the lifespan of both newly emerged and forager bees, while only in foragers a significantly higher feed intake was recorded. In newly emerged bees, administration of a high-protein-enriched diet stimulated glucose oxidase production at the 10th day of feeding, determined a reduction of phenoloxidase and did not affect glutathione S-transferase activity. In forager bees, a high level of protein inclusion did not determine any significant variation in either glucose oxidase, phenoloxidase or glutathione S-transferase activity. Therefore, the results obtained in this investigation suggest that administration of commercial protein diets negatively affect honey bee health, determining an increase in mortality. Further investigations on the effect of concentration and quality of proteins are desirable to provide beekeepers with scientific evidence on protein feeding.
Carnitines as Mitochondrial Modulators of Oocyte and Embryo Bioenergetics
Authors: Placidi Martina , Di Emidio Giovanna , Virmani Ashraf , D’Alfonso Angela , Artini Paolo Giovanni , D’Alessandro Anna Maria , Tatone Carla
Published: April 2022

Recently, the importance of bioenergetics in the reproductive process has emerged. For its energetic demand, the oocyte relies on numerous mitochondria, whose activity increases during embryo development under a fine regulation to limit ROS production. Healthy oocyte mitochondria require a balance of pyruvate and fatty acid oxidation. Transport of activated fatty acids into mitochondria requires carnitine. In this regard, the interest in the role of carnitines as mitochondrial modulators in oocyte and embryos is increasing. Carnitine pool includes the un-esterified l-carnitine (LC) and carnitine esters, such as acetyl-l-carnitine (ALC) and propionyl-l-carnitine (PLC). In this review, carnitine medium supplementation for counteracting energetic and redox unbalance during in vitro culture and cryopreservation is reported. Although most studies have focused on LC, there is new evidence that the addition of ALC and/or PLC may boost LC effects. Pathways activated by carnitines include antiapoptotic, antiglycative, antioxidant, and antiinflammatory signaling. Nevertheless, the potential of carnitine to improve energetic metabolism and oocyte and embryo competence remains poorly investigated. The importance of carnitine as a mitochondrial modulator may suggest that this molecule may exert a beneficial role in ovarian disfunctions associated with metabolic and mitochondrial alterations, including PCOS and reproductive aging.
Melatonin Nuclear Receptors Mediate Green-and-Blue-Monochromatic-Light-Combinations-Inhibited B Lymphocyte Apoptosis in the Bursa of Chickens via Reducing Oxidative Stress and Nfκb Expression
Authors: Zhang Yijia , Wang Zixu , Dong Yulan , Cao Jing , Chen Yaoxing
Published: April 2022

Previous studies found that melatonin modulates a combination of green-and-blue-light-induced B-lymphocyte proliferation via its membrane receptors Mel1a and Mel1c. However, in addition to its membrane-bound receptors, melatonin also functions through binding to nuclear receptors RORα/RORβ/RORγ. In this study, we raised 120 chicks under 400–700 nm white (WW), 660 nm red (RR), 560 nm green (GG) and 480 nm blue light (BB) from P0 to P26. From P27 to P42, half of the chickens in green, blue and red were switched to blue (G→B), green (B→G) and red (R→B), respectively. We used immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, qRT-PCR, Elisa and MTT to investigate the influence of various monochromatic light combinations on the bursal B lymphocyte apoptosis and oxidative stress levels as well as estimate whether melatonin and its nuclear receptors were involved in this process. Consistent with the increase in the plasma melatonin concentration and antioxidant enzyme activity, we observed that G→B significantly decreased the RORα, RORγ mRNA level, inhibited Bax, Caspase-3 and p-iκb, p-p65 protein expression, increased the IL-10 level and Nrf2, HO-1 protein expression, down-regulated the MDA and pro-inflammatory IL-6, TNF-α and IFN-γ levels in the bursa compared with WW, RR, GG, BB and R→B, respectively. Our in vitro results showed exogenous melatonin supplementation inhibited B-lymphocyte apoptosis, decreased IL-6, TNF-α, IFN-γ and ROS production, down-regulated RORα, RORγ mRNA level and p-iκb and p-p65 protein expression, whereas it improved the IL-10 level and Nrf2 and the HO-1 protein expression in bursal B lymphocyte. Moreover, these responses were abrogated by RORα agonist SR1078 but were mimicked by RORα antagonist SR3335 or RORγ antagonist GSK2981278. In addition, p65 antagonist BAY reversed RORα/RORγ-mediated G→B-inhibited bursal B lymphocyte apoptosis. Overall, we concluded that melatonin nuclear RORα/RORγ mediates G→B-inhibited bursal B lymphocyte apoptosis via reducing oxidative stress and Nfκb expression.
Damage Detection of Continuous Beam Bridge Based on Maximum Successful Approximation Approach of Wavelet Coefficients of Vehicle Response
Authors: Liu Kai , Qi Haopeng , Sun Zengshou
Published: April 2022

In view of problems such as closed traffic, the large number of sensors required, and the labor-intensive and time-consuming nature of previous bridge detection, this paper analyzes the dynamic response of the vehicle body of the continuous girder bridge under the action of vehicle load. Based on theoretical analysis and formula derivation, a new method of bridge damage detection based on coupled vehicle–bridge vibration is conceived. This method can accurately identify the location of bridge damage and approximately estimate the degree of bridge damage. The method is as follows: Taking the continuous beam bridge as an example, first, use the tractor inspection vehicle model to drive over the continuous beam bridge before and after the damage, and collect the acceleration response of the vehicle body. Then, the acceleration response difference is transformed by wavelet transform. Furthermore, perform the innovative use of the maximum successive approximation approach to process wavelet transform coefficients, which can identify the location of the bridge damage. Additionally, study the impact of vehicle speed, vehicle weight, road surface roughness, and noise on this damage detection method. In addition, a method for judging bridge damage degree based on wavelet transform coefficients is proposed, and the judgment error basically meets the requirements.
Fuzzy Approach to Computational Classification of Burnout—Preliminary Findings
Authors: Prokopowicz Piotr , Mikołajewski Dariusz
Published: April 2022

There is a common belief that medical professions generate more work-related stress and earlier job burnout. We tested two groups: study group 1: medical (physical therapists, n = 30), and study group 2: non-medical (informaticians, n = 30). The purpose of this study was to find new, more reliable models for calculating work-related stress and burnout in the two aforementioned different professional groups. In the paper, we focused on a new model of algorithm based on AI methods that extends the interpretability of the scale of results obtained using the MBI test. The outcomes of the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) were analysed in both study groups. These became the starting point for the development of three different fuzzy models, from which, after comparison, the one best suited to the study groups and the way they were evaluated was selected. Among the patients participating in the study, the following results were obtained: MBI values expressed as median values were significantly higher in group 2 than in group 1. The computational analysis showed that the contribution of the different parts of the MBI test to the final score was unequal in both groups. AI allowed for optimal selection of the model parameters for the study group, from which an algorithm was created to optimise the selection of tools or their parameters. A computational tool can do this faster, more accurately, and more efficiently, becoming an important supporting tool. In the medical context, the main benefit of the results presented in this paper is the definition of an evaluation model that transforms the MBI test scores into a universal percentage scale while preserving the properties of the guidelines underlying the MBI. An additional advantage of the proposed solution is the readability and flexibility resulting from the linguistic rules underlying the model.
ROAD Statistics-Based Noise Detection for DME Mitigation in LDACS
Authors: Keshkar Miziya , Muthalagu Raja , Rajak Abdul
Published: April 2022

Interference mitigation in L-band Digital Aeronautic Communication Systems (LDACS) from legacy users is extremely important as any error in data retrieval of aeronautic communication can adversely affect flight safety. This paper proposes an LDACS receiver prototype which uses rank-ordered absolute differences (ROAD) statistics to detect the distance measuring equipment (DME) interference. The detected DME interference is reduced in the next stage by pulse blanking. The performance of the proposed ROAD pulse blanking method (ROAD PB) is compared with the existing interference mitigation methods which use the amplitude of the received signal for the detection of DME interference. In depth analysis of the obtained results affirms that the proposed ROAD value-based interference detection excels amplitude-based detection. For an SNR value of 0 dB, the proposed method of detection could achieve a 3% increase in terms of accuracy with a reduction of 4% in false alarms. With the advantage of ROAD statistics detection, the proposed ROAD PB could achieve an SNR saving of 2.7, 1.1, 0.7, 0.25 and 0.2 dBs at BER 10−1 in comparison with pulse blanking, Genie-aided estimation enhanced pulse peak attenuator (GAEPPA), GAE enhanced pulse peak limiter (GAEPPL), optimum Bayesien estimator enhanced pulse peak attenuator (OBEPPA) and OBE enhanced pulse peak limiter (OBEPPL). The comparative results show that the proposed ROAD pulse blanking outperformed the other techniques for the optimum threshold value of the operation.
The Effect of Blade Angle Deviation on Mixed Inflow Turbine Performances
Authors: Chelabi Mohammed Amine , Saga Milan , Kuric Ivan , Basova Yevheniia , Dobrotvorskiy Sergey , Ivanov Vitalii , Pavlenko Ivan
Published: April 2022

The choice of blades for mixed turbines is to achieve the required deflection with minimal losses. In addition, it is necessary that the blade functions without a detachment in a wide area outside the nominal operating point of the machine. In the blade profile study, it is required to satisfy the conditions relating to fluid mechanics and those relating to the possibility of realization of construction. The work carried out presents the effect of the blade deviation angle on the geometric blade shape and the performance of the mixed inflow turbine on keeping the same rotor casing in order to improve its performances. It was remarked that the efficiency is proportional to the deviation angle’s increase, but the rotor became heavy. It has been determined that the effect of the blade deviation angle on mixed inflow performances decreases dramatically starting from the angle −20° for a 100% of machine load. It was urged to avoid relying on angles greater than −20 as values for blade deviation angles. The study noted that the maximum obtained in the output work and power is related to the highest the efficiency for a specific optimum design case (−35° of deviation blade angle) due to the increase in the contact surface between the blade and the fluid, but the problem is that the rotor gets a little heavy (4.37% weight gain). Among recommendations, attention was given to the more significant absolute exit kinetic energies, for values of deviation blade angle between -10° and −20°, where an exhaust diffuser is recommended to use to recover a part of it into a greater expansion ratio. These simulation results were obtained using a CFD calculation code-named CFX.15. This code allowed for the resolution of the averaged dynamic equations governing the stationary, compressible, and viscous internal flow.
Tailoring mHealth Apps on Users to Support Behavior Change Interventions: Conceptual and Computational Considerations
Authors: Sartori Fabio , Savi Marco , Talpini Jacopo
Published: April 2022

Personalization is an important factor to increase the user experience (UX) and effectiveness of mHealth solutions. In this paper, we present an innovative approach to the personalization of mHealth apps. A profiling function has been developed based on the physical and psychological characteristics of users, with the final aim to cluster them acting as a guideline to the design and implementation of new functionalities to improve the overall acceptance degree of the app. A preliminary analysis case study has been proposed to evaluate the impact on user experience according to the state of the art to draw useful lessons for future works.
Advanced Sensors and Sensing Technologies for Indoor Localization
Authors: De Angelis Alessio , Santoni Francesco
Published: April 2022

Accurate information concerning the position of users, devices, mobile robots, or systems is crucial for the safe and efficient operation of applications in the industrial, commercial, and consumer fields [...]
Vehicular Traffic in Urban Areas: Health Burden and Influence of Sustainable Urban Planning and Mobility
Authors: Reche Cristina , Tobias Aurelio , Viana Mar
Published: April 2022

Vehicular traffic is one of the major sources of air pollution in European cities. This work aims to understand which characteristics of the urban environment could influence mobility-related air pollution, quantify the health impacts of exposure to traffic-derived PM2.5 and NO2 concentrations, and assess the potential health benefits expected from traffic interventions. The health benefits modeled are intended to provide a set of comparable data to support decision-makers and encourage informed decision-making to design healthier cities. Targeting a large geographical coverage, 12 European cities from 9 countries were comparatively assessed in terms of mean daily traffic volume/area, the number of public transport stops/area, and the percentage of green and outdoor leisure areas, among other urban indicators. This was implemented using an open-source data mining tool, which was seen as a useful engine to identify potential strategies to improve air quality. The comparison of urban indicators in the selected cities evidenced two trends: (a) cities with the most heterogeneous distribution of public transport stops, as an indicator of poor accessibility, are also those with the lowest proportion of km dedicated to cycleways and footways, highlighting the need in these cities for more sustainable mobility management; and (b) the percentage of green and outdoor leisure areas may influence the share of journeys by bicycle, pointing out that promoting the perception of green routes is relevant to enhance the potential of active transport modes. Socioeconomic factors can be key determinants of the urban indicators and would need further consideration. For the health impact assessment (HIA), two baseline scenarios were evaluated and compared. One is based on mean annual traffic contributions to PM2.5 concentrations in each target city (ranging between 1.9 and 13 µg/m3), obtained from the literature, and the second is grounded on mean annual NO2 concentrations at all available traffic and urban background stations within each city (17.2–83.5 µg/m3), obtained from the European Environment Agency database. The intervention scenarios modeled were designed based on traffic mitigation strategies in the literature, and set to ranges of 6–50% in traffic-derived PM2.5 concentrations and of 4–12.5% in NO2 concentrations. These scenarios could result in only a 1.7% (0.6–4%) reduction in premature mortality due to exposure to traffic-derived PM2.5, and 1.0% (0.4–2%) due to exposure to NO2, as the mean for all the cities. This suggests that more ambitious pollution abatement strategies should be targeted.
Biological Effects of Transforming Growth Factor Beta in Human Cholangiocytes
Authors: Ceccherini Elisa , Di Giorgi Nicoletta , Michelucci Elena , Signore Giovanni , Tedeschi Lorena , Vozzi Federico , Rocchiccioli Silvia , Cecchettini Antonella
Published: April 2022

TGF-β is a cytokine implicated in multiple cellular responses, including cell cycle regulation, fibrogenesis, angiogenesis and immune modulation. In response to pro-inflammatory and chemotactic cytokines and growth factors, cholangiocytes prime biliary damage, characteristic of cholangiopathies and pathologies that affect biliary tree. The effects and signaling related to TGF-β in cholangiocyte remains poorly investigated. In this study, the cellular response of human cholangiocytes to TGF-β was examined. Wound-healing assay, proliferation assay and cell cycle analyses were used to monitor the changes in cholangiocyte behavior following 24 and 48 h of TGF-β stimulation. Moreover, proteomic approach was used to identify proteins modulated by TGF-β treatment. Our study highlighted a reduction in cholangiocyte proliferation and a cell cycle arrest in G0/G1 phase following TGF-β treatment. Moreover, proteomic analysis allowed the identification of four downregulated proteins (CaM kinase II subunit delta, caveolin-1, NipSnap1 and calumin) involved in Ca2+ homeostasis. Accordingly, Gene Ontology analysis highlighted that the plasma membrane and endoplasmic reticulum are the cellular compartments most affected by TGF-β. These results suggested that the effects of TGF-β in human cholangiocytes could be related to an imbalance of intracellular calcium homeostasis. In addition, for the first time, we correlated calumin and NipSnap1 to TGF-β signaling.
Impact of Cultivation Substrate and Microbial Community on Improving Mushroom Productivity: A Review
Authors: Suwannarach Nakarin , Kumla Jaturong , Zhao Yan , Kakumyan Pattana
Published: April 2022

Lignocellulosic materials commonly serve as base substrates for mushroom production. Cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin are the major components of lignocellulose materials. The composition of these components depends upon the plant species. Currently, composted and non-composted lignocellulosic materials are used as substrates in mushroom cultivation depending on the mushroom species. Different substrate compositions can directly affect the quality and quantity of mushroom production yields. Consequently, the microbial dynamics and communities of the composting substrates can significantly affect mushroom production. Therefore, changes in both substrate composition and microbial diversity during the cultivation process can impact the production of high-quality substrates and result in a high degree of biological efficiency. A brief review of the current findings on substrate composition and microbial diversity for mushroom cultivation is provided in this paper. We also summarize the advantages and disadvantages of various methods of mushroom cultivation by analyzing the microbial diversity of the composting substrates during mushroom cultivation. The resulting information will serve as a useful guide for future researchers in their attempts to increase mushroom productivity through the selection of suitable substrate compositions and their relation to the microbial community.
Osteoprotegerin Is a Better Predictor for Cardiovascular and All-Cause Mortality than Vascular Calcifications in a Multicenter Cohort of Patients on Peritoneal Dialysis
Authors: Ávila Marcela , Prado Ma. del Carmen , Romero Renata , Córdova Ricardo , Rigo Ma. del Carmen , Trejo Miguel , Mora Carmen , Paniagua Ramón ,   for the Mexican Nephrology Collaborative Study Group
Published: April 2022

The purpose of this study was to compare vascular calcification (VC), serum osteoprotegerin (OPG) levels, and other biochemical markers to determine their value as available predictors of all-cause and cardiovascular (CV) mortality in patients on peritoneal dialysis (PD). A total of 197 patients were recruited from seven dialysis centers in Mexico City. VC was assessed with multi-slice computed tomography, measured using the calcification score (CaSc). OPG, albumin, calcium, hsC-reactive protein, phosphorous, osteocalcin, total alkaline phosphatase, and intact parathormone were also analyzed. Follow-up and mortality analyses were assessed using the Cox regression model. The mean age was 43.9 ± 12.9 years, 64% were males, and 53% were diabetics. The median OPG was 11.28 (IQR: 7.6–17.4 pmol/L), and 42% of cases had cardiovascular calcifications. The median VC was 424 (IQR:101–886). During follow-up (23 ± 7 months), there were 34 deaths, and 44% were cardiovascular in origin. In multivariable analysis, OPG was a significant predictor for all-cause (HR 1.08; p < 0.002) and CV mortality (HR 1.09; p < 0.013), and performed better than VC (HR 1.00; p < 0.62 for all-cause mortality and HR 1.00; p < 0.16 for CV mortality). For each mg/dL of albumin-corrected calcium, there was an increased risk for CV mortality, and each g/dL of albumin decreased the risk factor for all-cause mortality. OPG levels above 14.37 and 13.57 pmol/L showed the highest predictive value for all-cause and CV mortality in incident PD patients and performed better than VC.