bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nitrogen Use Efficiency Regulates Drought Stress in Pearl Millet Genotypes: Morpho-Physiological Evaluation
Authors: Shukla Shiv Shankar , Panda Sanjib Kumar
Published: March 2023

In this paper, the author discusses the effects of drought stress on pearl millet genotypes during the vegetative stage of development and the plant’s mechanisms for survivability under stress with various nitrogen treatment regimes. A total of six treatment conditions were imposed on plants, i.e., N0 (no Nitrogen-0 mM), N0+PEG-10%, LN (low Nitrogen-2.5 mM), LN+PEG-10%, HN (high Nitrogen-7.0 mM), and HN+PEG-10%. Five days of moderate drought stress caused significant morphophysiological changes, as evidenced by a reduction in fresh and dry biomass, as well as relative water content (RWC), relative electrolyte leakage, and chlorophyll fluorescence,. A significant reduction in plant biomass and RWC when compared to the controls was seen. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxidation (MDA) levels increased in the shoot in response to drought stress along with a loss of membrane integrity. A nitrogen treatment regime regulated the drought stress. In relation to N0-treated batches, proline accumulation increased in various N-treated batches. Results revealed that GHB-538 is less tolerant to drought stress in different N treatment conditions, while RHB-234 and 223 showed better tolerance to drought under nitrogen treatments. The significance of this study is to uncover the regulatory role of nitrogen over the drought stress in pearl millet.
Research on the Determination of the Factors Affecting Business Performance in Beekeeping Production
Authors: Čavlin Miroslav , Prdić Nedeljko , Ignjatijević Svetlana , Vapa Tankosić Jelena , Lekić Nemanja , Kostić Sara
Published: March 2023

A competitive business environment pushes beekeepers to the creation of value at a higher level than the competition in a way that is difficult to imitate. In order to survive in a competitive business environment, beekeeping producers must direct their resources towards innovative solutions, which can include honey quality assurance programmes and further product development, as well as creation of value-added honey products that is translated in good business performance. As the potential of the Republic of Serbia’s beekeeping production can be strengthened and its products exported beyond the national market, there is a need to examine the influence of a set of factors that can impact the beekeeper’s business performance. Therefore, this paper will examine the direct and indirect influence of the competitive environment (the business environment opportunities, threats and the relationships with the consumers) and innovative performance (in the field of marketing, product design, product quality, distribution, manufacturing and time to market) on the business performance of Serbian beekeepers. This research uses the SEM method with the SmartPLS tool. The findings of the model have confirmed that a competitive environment and innovative performance have a direct positive, statistically significant impact on the business performance of Serbian beekeeping production. A weak indirect influence of a competitive environment on the business performance of beekeepers has been confirmed. The model has proven to be significant, and a high percentage of variations in beekeepers’ business performance has been explained by the influence of two independent variables (competitive environment and innovative performance). As there is no previous research on the nexus of the competitive environment, innovative performance and business performance of Serbian beekeepers, these findings may be of special interest to authors and researchers, beekeeping organizations and representatives of agricultural advisory services.
Effects of Long-Term Organic–Inorganic Nitrogen Application on Maize Yield and Nitrogen-Containing Gas Emission
Authors: Zhou Hui , Wang Yongqiang , Wang Jian , Liu Hu , Li Hongfang , Guo Jiawei
Published: March 2023

A sustainable model of combined organic–inorganic fertilizer application for high maize yields and environmental health is important for food security. The short-term combined application of organic and inorganic fertilizers can improve crop yields; however, the effect of different proportions of organic and inorganic fertilizers on the maize yield and nitrogen gas emissions in a long time series has not been reported. In this study, field experiments and DeNitrification-DeComposition (DNDC) model simulations were used to study the long-term effects of substituting inorganic fertilizers with organic fertilizers on crop yields and nitrogen-containing gas emissions. Six treatments were included: no nitrogen (CK); urea (U1); and 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% of the urea N substituted by organic fertilizers (U3O1, U1O1, U1O3, and O1, respectively). The DNDC model was calibrated using the field data from the U1 treatment from 2018 to 2020 and was validated for the other treatments. The results showed that this model could effectively simulate crop yields (e.g., nRMSE < 5%), soil NH3 volatilization, and N2O emissions (nRMSE < 25%). In addition, long-term (26 years) simulation studies found that the U1O1 treatment could considerably increase maize yields and ensure yield stability, which was 15.69–55.31% higher than that of the U1 treatment. The N2O, NH3, and NO emissions were in the descending order of U1 > U3O1 > O1 > U1O3 > U1O1, and the total nitrogen-containing gas emissions from the U1O1 treatment decreased by 53.72% compared with the U1 treatment (26 years). Overall, substituting 50% of inorganic nitrogen with organic nitrogen could maintain the high yield of maize and reduce emissions of nitrogen-containing gases, constituting a good mode for the combined application of organic–inorganic nitrogen in this area.
Intensification of Pasture-Based Animal Production System Has Little Short-Term Effect on Soil Carbon Stock in the Southern Brazilian Highland
Authors: Camacho Pedro Antonio Garzón , Pinto Cassiano Eduardo , Lopes Cássio Felipe , Tomazelli Daniela , Werner Simone Silmara , Garagorry Fábio Cervo , Baldissera Tiago Celso , Schirmann Janquieli , Sbrissia André Fischer
Published: March 2023

Pastures are of central importance in food production and provide multiple ecosystem services. The objective of this paper was to determine whether the intensification of pasture-based animal production systems, through practices such as fertilization and improved pasture species, has a higher capacity in the short-term (five years) to sequester carbon in the soil compared to (1) natural grassland without anthropogenic interactions, (2) natural grassland fertilized and overseeded with exotic species, and (3) annual pastures with frequent soil disturbance. The study assessed the organic carbon stock (OCS), total organic carbon (TOC), particle size, porosity, and density at different soil strata, as well as the root system and forage production. Forage dry matter (DM) production varied significantly with means ranging from 6615 to 13,000 kg ha–1 year–1 for natural grassland (NG) and permanent pasture (PP), respectively. Improved natural grassland (ING) and NG presented a higher density and root diameter than PP and annual pasture (AP). Forage systems significantly influenced soil porosity and density, with NG and ING showing lower soil densities and higher soil porosities. The OCS (0–100 cm) was similar between NG (270 Mg ha–1), ING (255 Mg ha–1), PP (274 Mg ha–1), and AP systems (256 Mg ha–1). Over a period of five years, the intensification of pasture-based animal production systems did not have a significant impact on OCS in the soils of a Brazilian subtropical highland.
Effect of Planting Patterns and Seeding Rate on Dryland Wheat Yield Formation and Water Use Efficiency on the Loess Plateau, China
Authors: Zhang Jingjing , Mu Junyi , Hu Yanan , Ren Aixia , Lei Bin , Ding Pengcheng , Li Linghong , Sun Min , Gao Zhiqiang
Published: March 2023

Dryland winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) production plays an extremely important role in the southeast of the Loess Plateau. Planting patterns have great influence on improving soil water storage and yield, and should be matched with different seeding rates. In order to assess the effect of different sowing methods on the drought resistance and stable yield of dryland wheat, a field experiment was conducted in Wenxi County Dryland Wheat Experimental Base in Shanxi Province, China. In the current study, the effects of three planting techniques (drilling sowing, furrow sowing, and film-mulched sowing) and four seeding rates (150, 225, 300, and 375 kg ha−1) were examined on water storage, dry matter formation, yield, and water use efficiency (WUE). The results showed that furrow sowing (FS) and film-mulched sowing (FM) treatments increased soil water storage in the 0–300 cm soil layer at overwintering and jointing stages. In addition, FS and FM increased soil water consumption in the 0–300 cm soil layer from overwintering to maturity of wheat. Furthermore, FS and FM significantly increased the dry matter accumulation from the overwintering to the mature stage, promoted its accumulation in vegetative organs and translocation to grains after anthesis, viz., increased yield by 6.2% and 7.9%, and WUE by 4.6% and 5.3%, respectively, as compared with those of the drilling sowing (DS) treatments. Pearson’s correlation analysis showed that grain yield had a significantly positive correlation with soil water storage at overwintering and jointing. Moreover, grain yield was significantly positively correlated with soil water consumption in the 0–300 cm soil layer from jointing to maturity. Additionally, the seeding rate of 150 kg ha−1 with FS could obtain higher WUE and grain yield. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that the seeding rate of 150 kg ha−1 is used with FS to improve the grain yield and WUE of dryland agricultural systems in China.
Genotype Selection for Grain Yield of Sorghum through Generalized Linear Mixed Model
Authors: Tesfa Mulugeta , Zewotir Temesgen , Derese Solomon Assefa , Belay Denekew Bitew , Laing Mark
Published: March 2023

The classical model only provides a correct analysis if all the effects are fixed. For experiments that include fixed and random effects, the general linear mixed model is appropriate for handling the non-normal distributed response variables. The aim of this study is to perform the genotype selection through a generalized linear mixed model and identify the impact of treatment and the related traits on grain yield. The data were collected using a lattice square design and measured the phenotype traits of sorghum. The result of PCA was used as an input variable for the general linear mixed model. The data analysis was performed using a general linear mixed model with maximum likelihood methods to estimate the parameters of the model. The result showed that the grain yield had a gamma distribution and a treatment effect on grain yield. The first principal component was significant for grain yield. The variability of grain yield due to the random effects of replication within treatment, genotype, and the interaction of genotype by treatment were significant. The best genotypes effective for the mass production of sorghum were G137, G66 and G156 under stress conditions and G55, G41 and G78 under irrigated conditions. Overall, genotype selection using a general linear mixed model for grain yield is recommended for genotype selection of plant breeding.
The Influence of the Multi-Component Mineral-Organic Concentrate on the Bonitation Value of Turfgrass
Authors: Radkowski Adam , Radkowska Iwona , Wolski Karol , Bujak Henryk , Jeleń Łukasz
Published: March 2023

Multi-component fertilization has been found to have effects on grass metabolism, such as the stimulation of life processes and the reduction of adverse environmental conditions and pathogens. The research aimed to determine the bonitation value (assessment of the value in use) of turfgrass under the influence of using a multi-ingredient fertilizer. The experiment was carried out at the Experimental Station of the University of Agriculture in Krakow (Poland). The solution was applied through foliar application at three rates: 1.0, 2.0, and 3.0 L·ha−1. This fertilizer contains essential minerals and growth stimulants. An increase in the concentration of the test fertilizer used for spraying was associated with increased effectiveness. The plants with the highest dose of the multi-component fertilizer (treatment III) were characterized by the highest aesthetic values. The use of the concentrate reduced the occurrence of fungal plant diseases. Compared to control plants, 13% less snow mold infection and 25% fewer brown leaf spots were found. Satisfactory effects were also obtained on objects where mineral-organic concentrate was applied at a dose of 2.0 L·ha−1 (treatment II). Plants that received Treatment II and III resulted in 9% less snow mold and 15% less brown leaf spot compared to controls. In the object with the highest concentration dose (treatment III), the green index (NDVI) was also higher by 8% and the leaf greenness index (SPAD) by 7% compared to the plants from the control objects.
Tissue Tropism of H9N2 Low-Pathogenic Avian Influenza Virus in Broiler Chickens by Immunohistochemistry
Authors: Bóna Márta , Kiss István , Dénes Lilla , Szilasi Anna , Mándoki Míra
Published: March 2023

The H9N2 subtype of low-pathogenic avian influenza viruses (LPAIV) is a widespread pathogen of poultry that can also infect humans. The characterization of viral infections is a complex process, involving clinical, pathological, and virological investigations. The aim of this study was to adapt and optimize an immunohistochemical (IHC) technique developed for LPAIVs specifically for the detection of H9N2 virus antigens in infected tissues. Twenty-one-day-old broiler chickens were inoculated with three different strains of H9N2 virus by different infection routes (i.e., intranasal-intratracheal and intravenous) or co-infected with infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) and observed for 11 days post infection. The suggested IHC protocol was modified: (i) DAB (diamino-benzidine) was substituted with AEC (3-amino-9-ethyl carbazole) as chromogen; and (ii) indirect two-step immune reactions of monoclonal primary and peroxidase-labeled anti-mouse secondary antibodies were used instead of avidin–biotin complexes. Avian influenza virus antigen appears as a red precipitate in the nuclei of affected cells but can also be identified in the cytoplasm. Mild hyperemia and congestion were observed in the trachea, air sac, and lungs of the challenged birds, and fibrinous exudate was found at the bifurcation in a few cases. Neither gross pathological nor IHC lesions were found in the control group. Using the optimized protocol and an associated scoring scheme, it was demonstrated that the H9N2 strains tested exhibited respiratory and urinary tract tropism irrespective of the route of inoculation. On day 5, viral antigen was detected in the respiratory tract and kidney in 30–50% of the samples. On day 11, no IHC signal was observed, indicating the lack of viral replication. Slight differences in viral antigen expression were found between the different H9N2 virus strains, but, in contrast to highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), no viral antigen was detected in the brain and pancreas. Thus, IHC can be considered as an informative, visual addition to the toolkit for the characterization of H9N2 LPAIV infections.
Expression of IkappaB Family in the Ovine Liver during Early Pregnancy
Authors: Cai Chunjiang , Ren Ying , Cao Jianhua , Fang Shengya , Zhang Leying , Yang Ling
Published: March 2023

During normal pregnancy, there is a dynamic regulation of the maternal immune system, including the liver, to accommodate the presence of the allogeneic foetus in the uterus. However, it was unclear that the expression of the IkappaB (IκB) family was regulated in the ovine maternal liver during early pregnancy. In this study, sheep livers were collected at day 16 of the oestrous cycle (NP16), and days 13, 16 and 25 of gestation (DP13, DP16 and DP25), and RT-qPCR, Western blot and immunohistochemistry analysis were used to analyse the expression of the IκB family, including B cell leukemia-3 (BCL-3), IκBα, IκBβ, IκBε, IKKγ, IκBNS and IκBζ. The results revealed that expression of BCL-3, IκBβ, IκBε and IKKγ peaked at DP16, and the expression of IκBα was increased during early pregnancy. In addition, the expression of IκBζ peaked at DP13 and DP16, and IκBNS peaked at DP13. IκBβ and IKKγ proteins were located in the endothelial cells of the proper hepatic arteries and portal veins, and hepatocytes. In conclusion, early pregnancy changed the expression of the IκB family, suggesting that the modulation of the IκB family may be related to the regulation of maternal hepatic functions, which may be favourable for pregnancy establishment in sheep.
Characterization and Protective Properties of Lactic Acid Bacteria Intended to Be Used in Probiotic Preparation for Honeybees (Apis mellifera L.)—An In Vitro Study
Authors: Leska Aleksandra , Nowak Adriana , Rosicka-Kaczmarek Justyna , Ryngajłło Małgorzata , Czarnecka-Chrebelska Karolina Henryka
Published: March 2023

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are widely used probiotics and offer promising prospects for increasing the viability of honeybees. Thus, the probiotic potential of 10 LAB strains was determined, which in our previous studies showed the most potent protective abilities. In the current study, we investigated various properties of probiotic candidates. The tested LAB strains varied in susceptibility to tested antibiotics. Isolates showed high viability in sugar syrups and gastrointestinal conditions. None of the LAB strains exhibited β-hemolytic activity, mutual antagonism, mucin degradation, hydrogen peroxide production capacity, or bile salt hydrolase (BSH) activity. Additionally, the cytotoxicity of LAB cell-free supernatants (CFS) was assessed, as well as the effect of CFS from P. pentosaceus 14/1 on the cytotoxicity of coumaphos and chlorpyrifos in the Caco-2 cell line. The viability of Caco-2 cells reached up to 89.81% in the presence of the highest concentration of CFS. Furthermore, LAB metabolites decreased the cytotoxicity of insecticides (up to 19.32%) thus demonstrating cytoprotective activity. All tested LAB strains produced lactic, acetic, and malonic acids. This research allowed the selection of the most effective LAB strains, in terms of probiosis, for future in vivo studies aimed at developing an ecologically protective biopreparation for honeybees.
Dog Owners’ Attitude toward Veterinary Antibiotic Use and Antibiotic Resistance with a Focus on Canine Diarrhea Management
Authors: Candellone Alessia , Badino Paola , Girolami Flavia , Ala Ugo , Mina Floriana , Odore Rosangela
Published: March 2023

An ad hoc questionnaire was designed in order to investigate AMR knowledge amongst Italian dog owners, owner expectations concerning pharmacological treatment of canine AD, and client attitudes towards and compliance with alternative strategies to antimicrobial administration. A total of 250 questionnaires were returned. Most of respondents were female, aged 36–70 and workers. More than a half of participants owned one dog with mixed breed, with Labrador retriever, golden retriever, dachshund, and border collie being the most represented breeds. On average, each dog was treated with an oral antibiotic 1.044 times per year. Intestinal diseases were among the main reasons (19%) for antibiotic prescription. Oral antibiotic courses without veterinary consultation (21%) and anticipated termination of the therapy (17.1%) were less common than reported elsewhere. The majority of respondents knew the meaning of AMR with a significant inverse association between the level of education and the tendency to administer antimicrobials without consulting a clinician (p = 0.004). Most of the owners expected a rapid recovery of clinical signs after a first episode of AD and accepted natural dietary supplementation for treating the condition. Ninety-five percent of the respondents believed that public funding should be spent to study AMR. Even though an acceptable degree of AMR awareness emerged, we feel that further efforts should be made to increase public AMR knowledge and to stimulate proactive measures to fight the phenomenon. On the other hand, the development of guidelines for the treatment of uncomplicated canine AD would help clinicians to rationalize antimicrobial use.
Genomic Characterization of Staphylococcus aureus in Wildlife
Authors: Martínez-Seijas Carmen , Mascarós Patricia , Lizana Víctor , Martí-Marco Alba , Arnau-Bonachera Alberto , Chillida-Martínez Eva , Cardells Jesús , Selva Laura , Viana David , Corpa Juan M.
Published: March 2023

Staphylococcus aureus is an opportunistic multi-host pathogen that threatens both human and animal health. Animals can act as a reservoir of S. aureus for humans, but very little is known about wild animals’ epidemiological role. Therefore, in this study, we performed a genomic characterization of S. aureus isolates from wildlife, hunters, and their auxiliary hunting animals of Eastern Spain. Of 20 different species, 242 wild animals were examined, of which 28.1% were S. aureus carriers. The common genet, the Iberian ibex, and the European hedgehog were the species with the highest S. aureus carriage. We identified 30 different sequence types (STs), including lineages associated with wild animals such as ST49 and ST581, multispecies lineages such as ST130, ST398, and ST425, and lineages commonly isolated from humans, including ST1 and ST5. The hunters and the single positive ferret shared ST5, ST398, or ST425 with wild animals. In wildlife isolates, the highest resistance levels were found for penicillin (32.8%). For virulence factors, 26.2% of them carried superantigens, while 14.8% harbored the immune evasion cluster (IEC), which indicates probable human origin. Our findings suggest that wild animals are a reservoir of clinically relevant genes and lineages that could have the potential to be transmitted to humans. These data support the notion that wildlife surveillance is necessary to better understand the epidemiology of S. aureus as a pathogen that circulates among humans, animals, and the environment.
Antibacterial and Antibiofilm Activities of β-Lapachone by Modulating the Catalase Enzyme
Authors: Mir Mushtaq , Altuhami Somaya , Mondal Sukanta , Bashir Nasreena , Dera Ayed , Alfhili Mohammad
Published: March 2023

Background: Bacterial infections constantly have a large impact on public health, because of increased rates of resistance and reduced frequency of development of novel antibiotics. The utility of conventional antibiotics for treating bacterial infections has become increasingly challenging. The aim of the study was to assess the antibacterial effect of β-Lapachone (β-Lap), a novel synthetic compound. Methods: The antibacterial activity of the β-Lap compound was examined against laboratory strains by agar well diffusion method and broth dilution assay. Growth kinetics in presence of β-Lap on Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 27853) were assessed by microplate alamarBlue assay. Crystal violet blue assay was used for biofilm inhibition and biofilm eradication. P. aeruginosa catalase (KatA) complexed with β-Lap was modeled using molecular docking approach. Results: β-Lap exhibited potent antimicrobial activity against laboratory strains of bacteria with MIC of 0.2 mM for S. saprophyticus and Staphylococcus aureus, and 0.04 mM for Staphylococcus epidermidis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853. The inhibition of catalase enzyme was found to be the cause for its antibacterial activity. Bioinformatics analysis suggests that β-Lap can inhibit KatA activity by interacting with catalase proximal active site and heme binding site. The activity of some commercial antibiotics was enhanced in association with β-Lap. In addition, β-Lap inhibited the biofilm formation and eradicated the already formed and ultra-mature biofilms of aforesaid bacterial strains. Conclusion: These observations indicated that β-Lap could be a promising antibacterial agent for the treatment and prevention of infectious diseases.
Synthetic Biology Facilitates Antimicrobials Discovery
Authors: Bai Linquan , Deng Zixin , Tong Yaojun
Published: March 2023

We are currently facing two big global challenges: antibiotics shortage and multidrug resistance [...]
A New Integrative and Mobilizable Element Is a Major Contributor to Tetracycline Resistance in Streptococcus dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis
Authors: López de Egea Guillem , González-Díaz Aida , Guédon Gérard , Lao Julie , Berbel Dàmaris , Casabella Antonio , Marimón José María , Cercenado Emilia , Fernández-Delgado Lucía , Chiapello Hélène , Lacroix Thomas , Domínguez María Ángeles , Leblond-Bourget Nathalie , Ardanuy Carmen
Published: March 2023

Tetracycline resistance in streptococci is mainly due to ribosomal protection mediated by the tet(M) gene that is usually located in the integrative and conjugative elements (ICEs) of the Tn916-family. In this study, we analyzed the genes involved in tetracycline resistance and the associated mobile genetic elements (MGEs) in Streptococcus dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis (SDSE) causing invasive disease. SDSE resistant to tetracycline collected from 2012 to 2019 in a single hospital and from 2018 in three other hospitals were analyzed by whole genome sequencing. Out of a total of 84 SDSE isolates, 24 (28.5%) were resistant to tetracycline due to the presence of tet(M) (n = 22), tet(W) (n = 1), or tet(L) plus tet(W) (n = 1). The tet(M) genes were found in the ICEs of the Tn916-family (n = 10) and in a new integrative and mobilizable element (IME; n = 12). Phylogenetic analysis showed a higher genetic diversity among the strains carrying Tn916 than those having the new IME, which were closely related, and all belonged to CC15. In conclusion, tetracycline resistance in SDSE is mostly due to the tet(M) gene associated with ICEs belonging to the Tn916-family and a new IME. This new IME is a major cause of tetracycline resistance in invasive Streptococcus dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis in our settings.
Phenotypic and Genotypic Investigation of Carbapenem-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii in Maharaj Nakhon Si Thammarat Hospital, Thailand
Authors: Santajit Sirijan , Bhoopong Phuangthip , Kong-Ngoen Thida , Tunyong Witawat , Horpet Dararat , Paehoh-ele Wanfudhla , Zahedeng Tasneem , Pumirat Pornpan , Sookrung Nitat , Hinthong Woranich , Indrawattana Nitaya
Published: March 2023

(1) Background: Acinetobacter baumannii is well known as a causative agent of severe hospital-acquired infections, especially in intensive care units. The present study characterised the genetic traits of biofilm-forming carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii (CRAB) clinical isolates. Additionally, this study determined the prevalence of biofilm-producing A. baumannii isolates from a tertiary care hospital and investigated the association of biofilms with the distribution of biofilm-related and antibiotic resistance-associated genotypes. (2) Methods: The 995 non-duplicate A. baumannii isolates were identified, and their susceptibilities to different antibiotics were determined using the disk diffusion method. Using the modified microtiter plate assay, the CRAB isolates were investigated for their biofilm formation ability. Hemolysin and protease activities were determined. CRABs were subjected to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays targeting blaVIM, blaNDM, blaIMP, blaOXA-23-like, blaOXA-24-like, blaOXA-51-like, csuE and pgaB genes. Individual CRAB isolates were identified for their DNA fingerprint by repetitive element sequence-based (REP)-PCR. (3) Results: Among all A. baumannii isolates, 172 CRABs were identified. The major antibiotic resistance gene among the CRAB isolates was blaOXA-51-like (100%). Ninety-nine isolates (57.56%) were biofilm producers. The most prevalent biofilm gene was pgaB (79.65%), followed by csuE (76.74%). Evidence of virulence phenotypes revealed that all CRAB exhibited proteolytic activity; however, only four isolates (2.33%) were positive for the hemolytic-producing phenotype. REP-PCR showed that 172 CRAB isolates can be divided into 36-DNA fingerprint patterns. (4) Conclusions: The predominance of biofilm-producing CRAB isolates identified in this study is concerning. The characterisation of risk factors could aid in controlling the continual selection and spreading of the A. baumannii phenotype in hospitals, thereby improving patient care quality.
Bacillus VOCs in the Context of Biological Control
Authors: Grahovac Jovana , Pajčin Ivana , Vlajkov Vanja
Published: March 2023

A contemporary agricultural production system relying on heavy usage of agrochemicals represents a questionable outlook for sustainable food supply in the future. The visible negative environmental impacts and unforeseen consequences to human and animal health have been requiring a shift towards the novel eco-friendly alternatives for chemical pesticides for a while now. Microbial-based biocontrol agents have shown a promising potential for plant disease management. The bacteria of the genus Bacillus have been among the most exploited microbial active components due to several highly efficient mechanisms of action against plant pathogens, as well as a palette of additional plant-beneficial mechanisms, together with their suitable properties for microbial biopesticide formulations. Among other bioactive metabolites, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) have been investigated for their biocontrol applications, exhibiting the main advantage of long-distance effect without the necessity for direct contact with plants or pathogens. The aim of this study is to give an overview of the state-of-the-art in the field of Bacillus-based VOCs, especially in terms of their antibacterial, antifungal, and nematicidal action as the main segments determining their potential for biocontrol applications in sustainable agriculture.
Hand Hygiene and Antimicrobial Resistance in the COVID-19 Era: An Observational Study
Authors: Russotto Antonino , Rolfini Edoardo , Paladini Giovanni , Gastaldo Claudia , Vicentini Costanza , Zotti Carla Maria
Published: March 2023

Hand hygiene (HH) is one of the most important infection prevention and control strategies at the hospital level. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential COVID-19 pandemic impact on HH practices and rate of healthcare-associated infections. Data on alcohol-based handrub consumption (AHC) and antimicrobial resistance across 27 Italian hospitals over the period 2017–2021 were considered. Data on Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteria (CRE) were extracted from the antimicrobial resistance regional surveillance system. A significant increase was highlighted, with a peak in 2020 and a partial fall in 2021 for AHC (p < 0.001). The decrease in MRSA rates in 2021 compared to 2017–2019 was significant (p = 0.013). A significant Spearman’s correlation between AHC and CRE rates was found (Spearman’s ρ −0.646, p = 0.032). This study supports the importance of AHC monitoring and showed that improving AHC was an attainable goal in the COVID-19 era. However, other strategies are needed to maintain the high levels of AHC attained during the pandemic, in order to avoid a progressive drop that has already begun in 2021. Furthermore, our results support the inverse relationship between AHC and infection rates and antimicrobial-resistant bacteria.
Comparison of Antimicrobial Resistance among Commensal Escherichia coli Isolated from Retail Table Eggs Produced by Laying Hens from the Cage and Non-Cage Housing Systems in Western Australia
Authors: Sodagari Hamid Reza , Varga Csaba , Habib Ihab , Sahibzada Shafi
Published: March 2023

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has become a global public health concern in recent decades. Although several investigations evaluated AMR in commensal and pathogenic bacteria from different foods of animal origin in Australia, there is a lack of studies that compared AMR in commensal E. coli isolated from retail table eggs obtained from different laying hen housing systems. This study aimed to determine AMR and differences in AMR patterns among E. coli isolates recovered from retail table eggs sourced from caged and non-caged housing systems in Western Australia. Commensal E. coli isolates were tested for susceptibility to 14 antimicrobials using a broth microdilution method. Clustering analyses and logistic regression models were applied to identify patterns and differences in AMR. Overall, there were moderate to high frequencies of resistance to the antimicrobials of lower importance used in Australian human medicine (tetracycline, ampicillin, trimethoprim, and sulfamethoxazole) in the isolates sourced from the eggs of two production systems. All E. coli isolates were susceptible to all critically important antimicrobials except the very low level of resistance to ciprofloxacin. E. coli isolates from eggs of non-caged systems had higher odds of resistance to tetracycline (OR = 5.76, p < 0.001) and ampicillin (OR = 3.42, p ≤ 0.01) compared to the isolates from eggs of caged systems. Moreover, the number of antimicrobials to which an E. coli isolate was resistant was significantly higher in table eggs from non-caged systems than isolates from caged systems’ eggs. Considering the conservative approach in using antimicrobials in the Australian layer flocks, our findings highlight the potential role of the environment or human-related factors in the dissemination and emergence of AMR in commensal E. coli, particularly in retail table eggs of non-cage system origin. Further comprehensive epidemiological studies are required to better understand the role of different egg production systems in the emergence and dissemination of AMR in commensal E. coli.
Ability of a Polyphenol-Rich Nutraceutical to Reduce Central Nervous System Lipid Peroxidation by Analysis of Oxylipins in Urine: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Arcusa Raúl , Carillo Juan Ángel , Cerdá Begoña , Durand Thierry , Gil-Izquierdo Ángel , Medina Sonia , Galano Jean-Marie , Zafrilla María Pilar , Marhuenda Javier
Published: March 2023

Isoprostanes (IsoPs) are lipid peroxidation biomarkers that reveal the oxidative status of the organism without specifying which organs or tissues it occurs in. Similar compounds have recently been identified that can assess central nervous system (CNS) lipid peroxidation status, usually oxidated by reactive oxygen species. These compounds are the neuroprostanes (NeuroPs) derived from eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and the F2t-dihomo-isoprotanes derived from adrenic acid (AdA). The aim of the present investigation was to evaluate whether the long-term nutraceutical consumption of high polyphenolic contents (600 mg) from fruits (such as berries) and vegetables shows efficacy against CNS lipid peroxidation in urine biomarkers. A total of 92 subjects (47 females, 45 males, age 34 ± 11 years old, weight 73.10 ± 14.29 kg, height 1.72 ± 9 cm, body mass index (BMI) 24.40 ± 3.43 kg/m2) completed a randomized, cross-over, double-blind study after an intervention of two periods of 16 weeks consuming either extract (EXT) or placebo (PLA) separated by a 4-week washout period. The results showed significant reductions in three AdA-derived metabolites, namely, 17-epi-17-F2t-dihomo-IsoPs (Δ −1.65 ng/mL; p < 0.001), 17-F2t-dihomo-IsoPs (Δ −0.17 ng/mL; p < 0.015), and ent-7(RS)-7-F2t-dihomo-IsoPs (Δ −1.97 ng/mL; p < 0.001), and one DHA-derived metabolite, namely, 4-F4t-NeuroP (Δ −7.94 ng/mL; p < 0.001), after EXT consumption, which was not observed after PLA consumption. These data seem to show the effectiveness of the extract for preventing CNS lipid peroxidation, as determined by measurements of oxylipins in urine through Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-QqQ-ESI-MS/MS).
The Role of Seminal Oxidative Stress in Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
Authors: Davies Rhianna , Jayasena Channa N. , Rai Raj , Minhas Suks
Published: March 2023

Recurrent pregnancy loss is a distressing condition affecting 1–2% of couples. Traditionally investigations have focused on the female, however more recently researchers have started to explore the potential contribution of the male partner. Seminal reactive oxygen species have a physiological function in male reproduction but in excess are suspected to generate structural and functional damage to the sperm. Evidence is mounting to support an association between elevated seminal reaction oxygen species and recurrent pregnancy loss. Studies suggest that the rates of sperm DNA damage are higher in the male partners of women affected by recurrent pregnancy loss compared with unaffected men. However, the available pool of data is conflicting, and interpretation is limited by the recent change in nomenclature and the heterogeneity of study methodologies. Furthermore, investigation into the effects of oxidative stress on the epigenome show promise. The value of antioxidant therapy in the management of recurrent pregnancy loss currently remains unclear.
H∞ Optimization of a Novel Maxwell Dynamic Vibration Absorber with Lever, Inerter, and Grounded Stiffness
Authors: Li Jing , Gao Ting , Zhu Shaotao , Yang Xiaodong
Published: March 2023

In this paper, we propose a novel Maxwell dynamic vibration absorber (DVA) with lever, inerter, and grounded stiffness. Firstly, the governing equation of the coupled system is established. The analytical formula of the amplitude amplification factor of the primary system and the natural frequencies of the coupled system are derived. There are three fixed points in the amplitude–frequency response curve of the primary system, which are independent of damping. Then, based on H∞ optimization criterion, two possible optimal parameter designs of the proposed model are obtained. Considering the practical engineering application and ensuring the stability of the system, the optimal grounded stiffness ratio is selected, and six working ranges of inerter–mass ratio are calculated. Furthermore, the performance of the vibration reduction is compared for six cases. It is found that when the values of the mass ratio, lever amplification ratio, and inerter–mass ratio change in different intervals, and the optimal grounded stiffness ratio has different cases of negative, zero, and positive results. Especially when the stiffness coefficient of the viscoelastic Maxwell model and another grounded stiffness are positive at the same time, the vibration absorption effect is better theoretically. Finally, comparing with the traditional DVAs, the performance of the novel DVA is better under harmonic excitation and random excitation. The results could provide theoretical guidance for the design of inerter-based Maxwell-type DVA with a lever component.
Fiber Orientation Reconstruction from SEM Images of Fiber-Reinforced Composites
Authors: Zhao Zhouxiang , Wu Hongwu , Zhang Meng , Fu Shiqiang , Zhu Kang
Published: March 2023

The orientation of fibers in composites reinforced with short fibers can provide insight into the microstructure of the material and considerably affect its macroscopic characteristics. However, the present standard techniques for detecting fiber orientation and length based on microscopic image processing have faults in practical applications, including high effort, low efficiency, and unreliable measurement results. In this study, a method for measuring fiber orientation based on 3D reconstructions of scanning electron microscope (SEM) images is provided. The geodesic active contour (GAC) model is applied to segment the fibers in the SEM images. Matching the fiber contours with the scale-invariant feature transformation (SIFT) algorithm successfully extracts 3D orientation information from the fiber contours. The unit vector of the fiber axis is fitted from the extracted point cloud using the ordinary least squares (OLS) method. With a maximum deviation of 3.83° and an average deviation of 1.50°, the measurement findings of this method are substantially comparable to those of the image-measuring instrument. This paper offers a quantitative approach to studying the microstructure of short fiber-reinforced composites, thereby furnishing objective evidence to support the development and research of such materials.
Torque Allocation of Hybrid Electric Trucks for Drivability and Transient Emissions Reduction
Authors: Dimauro Luca , Tota Antonio , Galvagno Enrico , Velardocchia Mauro
Published: March 2023

This paper aims at investigating powertrain behaviour, especially in transient dynamic responses, using a nonlinear truck vehicle dynamic model with a parallel hybrid configuration. A power split control was designed to achieve the desired drivability performance, with a focus on NOx emissions. The controller was characterized by high-level model-based logic used to elaborate the total powertrain torque required, and a low-level allocation strategy for splitting power between the engine and the electric motor. The final task was to enhance vehicle drivability based on driver requests, with the goal of reducing—in a hybrid configuration—transient diesel engine emissions when compared to a conventional pure thermal engine powertrain. Different parameters were investigated for the assessment of powertrain performance, in terms of external input disturbance rejection and NOx emissions reduction. The investigation of torque allocation performance was limited to the simulation of a Tip-in manoeuvre, which showed a satisfying trade-off between vehicle drivability and transient emissions.
Dynamic Reactive Assignment of Tasks in Real-Time Automated Guided Vehicle Environments with Potential Interruptions
Authors: Martin Xabier A. , Hatami Sara , Calvet Laura , Peyman Mohammad , Juan Angel A.
Published: March 2023

An efficient management of production plants has to consider several external and internal factors, such as potential interruptions of the ongoing processes. Automated guided vehicles (AGVs) are becoming a widespread technology that offers many advantages. These AGVs can perform complex tasks in an autonomous way. However, an inefficient schedule of the tasks assigned to an AGV can suffer from unwanted interruptions and idle times, which in turn will affect the total time required by the AGV to complete its assigned tasks. In order to avoid these issues, this paper proposes a heuristic-based approach that: (i) makes use of a delay matrix to estimate circuit delays for different daily times; (ii) employs these estimates to define an initial itinerary of tasks for an AGV; and (iii) dynamically adjusts the initial agenda as new information on actual delays is obtained by the system. The objective is to minimize the total time required for the AGV to complete all the assigned tasks, taking into account situations that generate unexpected disruptions along the circuits that the AGV follows. In order to test and validate the proposed approach, a series of computational experiments utilizing real-life data are carried out. These experiments allow us to measure the improvement gap with respect to the former policy used by the system managers.
A Two-Stage Stackelberg Game Wind-Storage Planning Model Considering a Bus Carbon Intensity Incentive Mechanism
Authors: Nan Junpei , Feng Jieran , Guan Li , Sun Ke , Deng Xu , Zhou Hao
Published: March 2023

In the trend of power system decarbonization, wind power and energy storage planning studies are in full swing. Incentives for wind power and energy storage development are important research topics. However, most studies have proposed incentives from an energy perspective, and few focus directly on incentives from a carbon perspective. To this end, this paper proposes a novel unified bus carbon intensity incentive mechanism from the carbon perspective. A two-stage Stackelberg game wind storage planning model that considers the proposed carbon incentive mechanism is constructed. In the first stage, the carbon flow of the entire system is obtained following economic dispatch based on the carbon emission flow theory. In the second stage, a Stackelberg game wind-storage planning model is constructed to model the game between the power generation company and the power grid company. Through simulation analyses of these cases, the proposed incentive mechanism can effectively guide the construction of wind turbines and energy storage at the best buses. Additionally, by comparing the proposed incentive with the existing incentive mechanisms, this paper finds that the proposed incentive mechanism can achieve a higher carbon reduction effect with a similar total investment in wind turbines and energy storage.
A Novel Psychological Decision-Making Approach for Healthcare Digital Transformation Benchmarking in ASEAN
Authors: Wang Chia-Nan , Nguyen Thuy-Duong , Nhieu Nhat-Luong , Hsueh Ming-Hsien
Published: March 2023

In recent years, digital transformation is seen as a mandatory and urgent requirement in the process of modernizing countries. The effectiveness of the digital transformation process in the field of public management directly affects the social life and operations of businesses. This study aims to paint an overall picture of the healthcare digital transformation of a rapidly growing region, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), through a bounded rational multi-criteria assessment method. The novel proposed method is developed in light of the psychological behavior theories and the strengths of multi-criteria decision-making methods, which are based on distance computation and statistical parameters. Therefore, it can not only determine the weight of the criteria objectively through distance correlations, but also deeply describe the subjective psychology of the decision maker. In addition to theoretical contributions with a novel approach, the findings in the benchmarking process reveal important indicators and practical lessons from the digital transformation successes in ASEAN.
Proposing a SX Model with Cultural Factors
Authors: Matus Nicolás , Rusu Cristian , Botella Federico
Published: March 2023

Student eXperience (SX) is a particular case of Customer eXperience (CX). It consists of all the physical and emotional perceptions that a student or future student experiences in response to interaction with products, systems, or services provided by a Higher Education Institution (HEI). SX has three dimensions: (1) social, (2) educational, and (3) personal. Currently, there is a lack of studies that address cultural aspects as an impact factor in the SX dimensions. The development of a model that encompasses these aspects would serve to develop solutions that improve the quality of education and the student’s overall well-being. A holistic SX model would better address the student’s environmental problems, and the SX evaluation. We present a proposal for a holistic SX model focused on undergraduate students that includes culture as a factor related to the SX dimensions. This model allows for developing holistic student solutions that could increase the HEIs perceived quality, student academic performance, and retention rates.