bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of grammatical role and thematic role predictability in reference form production in Mandarin Chinese
Authors: Hwang Heeju , Lam Suet Ying , Ni Wenjing , Ren He
Published: September 2022

Evidence suggests that English speakers use pronouns when referring to the grammatical subject and predictable thematic role. We tested how grammatical role and thematic role predictability affect different types of referential forms, namely, overt pronouns and null pronouns in Mandarin Chinese. We found that both overt and null pronouns were sensitive to grammatical role. However, we did not find any evidence that overt and null pronouns were sensitive to thematic role predictability. Although null pronouns were influenced by grammatical role, the rate of null pronouns for subject reference was very low compared to that of overt pronouns. Given the frequent occurrence of null pronouns in Mandarin, our results suggest that the use of null pronouns may not be explained by a simple grammatical role mechanism.
Examining EFL teachers’ changing conceptions of research: A case study of a continuing professional development program in mainland China
Authors: Kang Yan , Yang Luxin
Published: September 2022

Drawing on teacher interviews, written teacher reflections, teacher research proposals, and research papers, this study explored the outcome and process of teacher learning during their participation in a continuing professional development program. It has been found that the teachers changed their conceptions of research over the course of learning concerning the nature, purpose, and process of research and the relationship between teaching and research. Dialogic exchanges and reading research papers, along with the scaffolding of the teacher educator, enabled the teachers to validate their practices, link others’ perspectives up to their own, and re-situate research in light of their current practices. The findings provide insights into the nature of teachers’ conceptual change and how learning opportunities can be better built into continuing professional development programs.
Improved localization of language areas using single voxel signal analysis of unprocessed fMRI data
Authors: Fetscher Leonard , Batra Marion , Klose Uwe
Published: September 2022

Activated brain regions can be visualized and localized with the use of fMRI (functional magnetic imaging). This is based on changes in the blood flow in activated regions, or more precisely on the hemodynamic response function (HRF) and the Blood-Oxygen-Level-Dependent (BOLD) effect. This study used a task-based fMRI examination with language paradigms in order to stimulate the language areas. The measured fMRI data are frequently altered by different preprocessing steps for the analysis and the display of activations. These changes can lead to discrepancies between the displayed and the truly measured location of the activations. Simple t-maps were created with unprocessed fMRI data, to provide a more realistic representation of the language areas. HRF-dependent single-voxel fMRI signal analysis was performed to improve the analyzability of these activation maps.
The Longitudinal Association Between Physical Activity and Physical Function in Older Women
Authors: Ward-Ritacco Christie L. , Greaney Mary L. , Clark Phillip G. , Riebe Deborah
Published: September 2022

Purpose

The age-related decline in physical function is ameliorated by physical activity; however, less is known about changes in physical function in active vs. inactive older women. The purpose of this study was to determine the longitudinal associations between physical activity and physical function in community-dwelling older women.

Methods

238 participants (age 79.0 ± 5.1) were dichotomized into two activity groups [inactive (IG); n = 144 or active (AG); n = 94] based on self-reported exercise at baseline. Repeated measures ANCOVA, controlling for age, measured differences in physical function between activity groups at baseline and 48-months using the Timed Up and Go, 30-s chair stand, and 30-second arm curl. Differences in Timed Up and Go classification [normal (≤ 8.23 s); preclinical limitations/limited physical function (>8.23 s)] were analyzed using chi-square tests for activity group and for activity-age group (AG, <80 years; AG, ≥ 80 years; IG, <80 years; IG, ≥ 80 years).

Results

The repeated measures ANCOVA yielded a significant main effect for activity group for the Timed Up and Go (p = 0.006), 30-s chair stand (p = 0.002) and 30 s arm curl (p = 0.007) and a significant time main effect for the Timed Up and Go (p = 0.016). There were no significant group by time interactions. A larger proportion of the IG than the AG (58.2 vs. 86.5%, respectively) had Timed Up and Go scores >8.23 s (p < 0.001). At 48-months, individuals in the AG were more likely to have normal Timed Up and Go scores compared to those in the IG in both age groups [χ(3, N=236)2 = 42.56, p < 0.001].

Conclusion

Older women who engaged in regular exercise at baseline had higher levels of objectively measured physical function and were less likely to have abnormal Timed Up and Go scores. These findings help illustrate the long-term benefit of exercise on physical function in older women.
How useful is the machine perfusion in liver transplantation? An answer from a national survey
Authors: Scalera Irene , De Carlis R. , Patrono D. , Gringeri E. , Olivieri T. , Pagano D. , Lai Q. , Rossi M. , Gruttadauria S. , Di Benedetto F. , Cillo U. , Romagnoli R. , Lupo L. G. , De Carlis L.
Published: September 2022

Machine perfusion (MP) has been shown worldwide to offer many advantages in liver transplantation, but it still has some gray areas. The purpose of the study is to evaluate the donor risk factors of grafts, perfused with any MP, that might predict an ineffective MP setting and those would trigger post-transplant early allograft dysfunction (EAD). Data from donors of all MP-perfused grafts at six liver transplant centers have been analyzed, whether implanted or discarded after perfusion. The first endpoint was the negative events after perfusion (NegE), which is the number of grafts discarded plus those that were implanted but lost after the transplant. A risk factor analysis for NegE was performed and marginal grafts for MP were identified. Finally, the risk of EAD was analyzed, considering only implanted grafts. From 2015 to September 2019, 158 grafts were perfused with MP: 151 grafts were implanted and 7 were discarded after the MP phase because they did not reach viability criteria. Of 151, 15 grafts were lost after transplant, so the NegE group consisted of 22 donors. In univariate analysis, the donor risk index >1.7, the presence of hypertension in the medical history, static cold ischemia time, and the moderate or severe macrovesicular steatosis were the significant factors for NegE. Multivariate analysis confirmed that macrosteatosis >30% was an independent risk factor for NegE (odd ratio 5.643, p = 0.023, 95% confidence interval, 1.27–24.98). Of 151 transplanted patients, 34% experienced EAD and had worse 1- and 3-year-survival, compared with those who did not face EAD (NoEAD), 96% and 96% for EAD vs. 89% and 71% for NoEAD, respectively (p = 0.03). None of the donor/graft characteristics was associated with EAD even if the graft was moderately steatotic or fibrotic or from an aged donor. For the first time, this study shows that macrovesicular steatosis >30% might be a warning factor involved in the risk of graft loss or a cause of graft discard after the MP treatment. On the other hand, the MP seems to be useful in reducing the donor and graft weight in the development of EAD.
One-year outcome of a lumboperitoneal shunt in older adults with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus
Authors: Fang Xuhao , Deng Yao , Xu Xinxin , Shu Weiquan , Tang Feng , Li Shihong , Zhu Ting , Zhang Li , Zhong Ping , Mao Renling
Published: September 2022

Background

Lumboperitoneal shunt (LPS) is now an effective surgical modality for idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH), but there is still a lack of clinical data on LPS in older adult iNPH patients in China. We aim to report the shunt effect and the complications of older adult iNPH patients treated with LPS at a single center in Shanghai, China.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study among adults over 60 years old who were diagnosed as iNPH and treated with LPS from September 2016 to December 2020. The shunt effect was evaluated from two dimensions of functional and symptomatic improvement 3 months and 1 year after surgery, respectively. The potential factors related to the shunt effect one year after surgery were explored by comparing the effect between different subgroups and conducting multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Result

A total of 85 patients were included in this study, ranging from 60 to 93 years old, with an average age of 74.7. The function and symptoms were better both 3 months and 1 year after surgery than before (P < 0.001). At the 1-year postoperation follow-up, the functional and symptomatic improvement rates were 72.9% and 90.6%, respectively. The symptomatic improvement rates of gait, urination, and cognition were 74.1%, 72.9%, and 60.0%, respectively. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that improvement in function was much more possible in patients with less than 24 months from symptom onset to surgery (OR = 24.57, P < 0.001) and those with disproportionately enlarged subarachnoid-space hydrocephalus (OR = 5.88, P = 0.048); improvement in gait was also more possible in patients with less than 24 months from symptom onset to surgery (OR = 5.29, P = 0.017); improvement in urination was more possible in patients with diabetes (OR = 4.76, P = 0.019), and improvement in cognition was more possible in patients with preoperative modified Rankin scale level lower than 4 (OR = 3.51, P = 0.040). Minor operation-related complications were seen in 27 patients (31.8%) and severe complications in 6 patients (7.1%).

Conclusion

LPS could improve the function and symptoms of older adult iNPH patients. Early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of the disease could improve the shunt effect of the patients. Older adult iNPH patients with higher age ranges could achieve comparable shunt results compared with younger adults.
Salmonella enterica frequency in backyard chickens in Vermont and biosecurity knowledge and practices of owners
Authors: Larsen Katalin M. , DeCicco Melissa , Hood Katherine , Etter Andrea J.
Published: September 2022

The popularity of backyard chickens has been growing steadily over the past 10 years, with Covid-19 stay at home orders in 2020 yielding an added boost in popularity. Concurrently, cases of salmonellosis from live poultry exposure have also risen. Previous research on backyard chicken owners has focused primarily on urban chicken owners, which may have differing knowledge and biosecurity habits from rural backyard chicken owners. The goal of this study was to investigate the prevalence of S. enterica in rural and urban flocks of chickens in the state of Vermont and to determine what attitudes toward and knowledge about S. enterica owners had, as well as what biosecurity practices they used. We conducted two surveys in Vermont between 2019–2022; a pilot study tied to sampling for Salmonella enterica in backyard chicken flocks from 2019–2021 and a statewide study in 2022 to determine the prevalence of backyard chickens in Vermont and obtain representative survey data from backyard chicken owners. We found (i) overall, 19% (8/42) backyard chicken flocks from 2019–2021 had S. enterica, but S. enterica rates varied substantially by year; (ii) backyard chicken owners were wealthier and more educated than the average Vermonter and generally lived in rural areas; (iii) participants in the statewide survey had much lower uptake of good biosecurity habits compared to the pilot survey; (iv) despite increased messaging about backyard chicken-associated salmonellosis and good biosecurity measures over the past several years, uptake of biosecurity measures is inconsistent, and rates of unsafe practices such as kissing or cuddling chickens have increased in Vermont. Overall, the data indicate the need for improved messaging on biosecurity and risks associated with backyard chickens
The Importance of Noise Attenuation Levels in Neonatal Incubators
Authors: Fernández-Zacarías Francisco , Puyana-Romero Virginia , Hernández-Molina Ricardo
Published: September 2022

Background: It is known that high noise levels can be harmful to preterm infants, causing physiological and psychological disorders. It is also known that premature babies spend a lot of time in an incubator. In this sense, many studies show that incubator noise levels can range from 45 to 70 dB. However, these differences in noise levels depend, fundamentally, on the wide range of methodology that can be used. This study aims to know the levels of noise from a fan in the incubator itself and how much it can isolate the noises coming from the outside. Methods: For this purpose, the noise levels of three incubators were measured within a sound-dampened booth for free-field audiometry. For the emission of acoustic energy, a pink noise generator was used; likewise, two microphones were placed, one inside the incubator cabin and the other outside, to determine the acoustic insulation levels of the tested incubators. Results: The incubators produced equivalent continuous sound pressure levels between 53.5 and 58 dB. Acoustic insulation analysis showed that levels varied from one incubator to another, between 5.2 and 10.4 dB. Conclusions: It is necessary to improve the acoustic insulation inside the incubator cabin and to reduce the noise levels of the motor fan. On the other hand, although the incubators are meeting the noise criteria set out in the IEC60601-2-19: 2009 standard of 60 dBA, under normal use conditions, they are still far from the limit recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (45 dBA).
Trauma-Related Internalizing and Externalizing Behaviors in Adolescence: A Bridge between Psychoanalysis and Neuroscience
Authors: Panuccio Anna , Biondo Daniele , Picerni Eleonora , Genovesi Benedetto , Laricchiuta Daniela
Published: September 2022

The adolescent brain is an open window on the environment, which is vulnerable to perturbations and the traumatic experiences occurring before or during this period have an increased saliency in affecting cognitive, emotional, and social levels. During adolescence, trauma-related effects causing significant impairment or suffering could be manifest in internalizing and externalizing behaviors. The present mini review aimed to clarify trauma effects on adolescence by examining the neurobiological correlates associated with an increased risk of externalizing/internalizing conducts, as well as the transformative effects of multiple and multimodal therapeutic interventions.
Design and Analysis of Pneumatic Downforce Regulating Device for No-Till Corn Planter
Authors: Cao Xinpeng , Wang Qingjie , Xu Dijuan , Huang Shenghai , Wang Xiuhong , Wang Longbao
Published: September 2022

To avoid the issues of undesired soil compaction and seeding depth variation caused by the downforce fluctuation of the corn no-till planter, the influence of the structural parameters of the air spring on the downforce was researched in this paper, by establishing the gas–solid coupling simulation model of the air spring. The downforce test bench was built to verify the simulation model; the test showed that the vertical output force error of the simulation model was 4.79%, the pitch diameter error was 0.76%, and the pressure error was 5.07%. The cord angle, piston angle and piston diameter were used as influencing factors to carry out single-factor experiments. The influences of structural parameters on downforce were analyzed from four aspects: the vertical output force, the vertical stiffness, the pressure difference and the deformation rate. The results showed that the cord angle reduced the effective area and its change rate during deformation by limiting the radial deformation of the bellow. When the cord angles were 30°, 45° and 60°, the deformation rates were 65.6%, 20.3% and 4.8%, respectively. The cord angle had a positive effect on the vertical output force when the cord angle was in the range of 30~56°, and it had a negative impact in the range of 56~60°. As the cord angle increased, the vertical stiffness decreased. As the piston angle increased, the effective area of the air spring decreased, and the change in internal pressure decreased, reducing its vertical output force and stiffness. The piston diameter had little effect on the internal pressure and deformation rate. It increased the vertical output force and stiffness by increasing the effective area. The structural parameters of the air spring had a significant impact on the stability of the downforce; the structure of the air spring should be optimized according to the downforce demand of the corn no-till planter.
What If the World Went Vegan? A Review of the Impact on Natural Resources, Climate Change, and Economies
Authors: Dorgbetor Isaac Korku , Ondrasek Gabrijel , Kutnjak Hrvoje , Mikuš Ornella
Published: September 2022

Contemporary knowledge on climate change has given rise to a group of advocates who suggest global veganism as an adaptive means of mitigating the threat of climate change. Livestock farming is accused of contributing massively to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Some studies suggest that eliminating meat from the diet (i.e., moving to a vegan diet) can reduce GHG emissions globally, while other studies suggest that livestock farming may make a smaller contribution to GHG emissions compared to previous estimates. A paradigm shift in agricultural production is expected to have direct impacts on natural resources, biodiversity, and economies. However, crop-only production and an exclusively vegan diet may lead to the loss of important plant and animal genetic materials, increase pressure on land and water resources, and exacerbate problems with agricultural crop residues. This “all in one basket” approach may affect the global meat trade, change the dynamics of some economies, and threaten food security in the event of pest and disease pandemics. This review found that crop-based ideology would make a huge contribution to reducing GHG emissions, while the integrity of land and water resources could be threatened in the future. Agricultural policies need to develop appropriate instruments to ensure food security, consumer preferences, and environmental protection and to provide a fair income for farmers worldwide. Global stakeholders in the agri-food sector, from policy makers to farmers, need to be engaged in a coherent policy to reduce the C footprint in our diets, protecting the (agri)environment and securing incomes.
Research on the Control Strategy of Leafy Vegetable Harvester Travel Speed Automatic Control System
Authors: Chen Wenming , Wang Gongpu , Hu Lianglong , Yuan Jianning , Wu Wen , Bao Guocheng , Yin Zicheng
Published: September 2022

This paper used the 4UM-120D electric leafy vegetable harvester as the research object and designed a travel speed automatic control system to maintain the travel speed within a set value of ±2% in order to improve the efficiency and quality of leafy vegetable harvester operations and decrease the work intensity of the operator. The harvester’s travel speed was automatically controlled by using the PID, adaptive fuzzy PID, and sliding mode control techniques after the mechanical and electrical equations for the travel drive motor (a DC brushless motor) were established in MATLAB. By simulating various working situations, the stability, accuracy, and speed of the automatic control system were compared and analyzed using the adjustment time, overshoot, steady-state transition time, and maximum deviation from the set speed as evaluation indicators. The test results revealed that when the current value of the leafy vegetable harvester travel speed deviated from the set value by more than 2%, the dynamic response performance and stability of the DC brushless motor travel drive system based on the sliding mode control strategy was significantly better than that of the PID and adaptive fuzzy PID control strategies, and its anti-disturbance was stronger, achieving the function of automatic control of the harvester travel speed. When the travel motor started with a constant load and the sliding mode control strategy’s parameters were the gain factors A = 1/70, c = 100, ε = 100, and k = 100, the travel drive system regulation time was 1.5 s, and the overshoot was 10%. When the harvester was operating smoothly and had leafy vegetable collection baskets loaded and unloaded, the steady-state transition time was 0.3 s. According to the actual engineering application experience, the specific technical state of the control strategy of the agricultural machinery travel speed automatic control system was: regulation time 2.5~3 s; overshoot amount 20~25%; and steady-state transition time 1.0~1.5 s, so the travel speed automatic control system of the electric leafy vegetable harvester in sliding mode was in line with the technical state requirements. The results of the field trials demonstrated the accuracy of the simulation test results. This study offered a method to lessen the work intensity of operators and increase the operating efficiency and quality of a leafy vegetable harvester.
Optimization and Experiment of Fertilizer-Spreading Device for Wheat Wide-Boundary Sowing Planter under Full Rice Straw Retention
Authors: Luo Weiwen , Wu Feng , Gu Fengwei , Xu Hongbo , Wang Gongpu , Wang Bokai , Yang Hongguang , Hu Zhichao
Published: September 2022

When sowing with a wide boundary under full rice straw retention in the rice–wheat rotation area of China, conventional fertilization methods have some problems, such as a low fertilizer utilization rate, heap soil around a buried fertilizer device, or blocked fertilizing orifice. Firstly, combined with theoretical analysis, discrete element numerical simulation technology, and central composite test method, the wide-boundary fertilization device for wheat wide-boundary sowing was designed. Then, with the coefficient of variation for particle uniformity (CVPU) as the response value, the central composite experiment was carried out on the key structural parameters (focal length coefficient, lateral span, tilt angle, and ground clearance) of the wide-boundary fertilization device by EDEM software. Finally, the influential rules of core factors of the device on the CVPU were analyzed by Design-Expert software; then, the optimal parameter combination was determined and verified by a field test. The results showed that all factors had significant effects on the CVPU. The primary and secondary factors affecting the CVPU were the tilt angle, lateral span, focal length coefficient, ground clearance, tilt angle × ground clearance, and lateral span × ground clearance, in which there were certain interactions between the tilt angle and ground clearance and lateral span and ground clearance. When the focal length coefficient, lateral span, tilt angle, and ground clearance were 1.5, 60 mm, 30°, and 192 mm, respectively, the lateral was minimum. In this case, the theoretical value and field test value were 14.11% and 17.63%, respectively. The field test value is consistent with the theoretical calculation value. This study could provide references for the design of a fertilizer-spreading device with a wide boundary.
Spatial and Temporal Variability of the Microbiological and Chemical Properties of Soils under Wheat and Oilseed Rape Cultivation
Authors: Grzyb Aleksandra , Wolna-Maruwka Agnieszka , Łukowiak Remigiusz , Ceglarek Jakub
Published: September 2022

The size of the microbial biomass and the activity of soil enzymes are among the most sensitive indicators of agricultural land quality. The aim of this study was to determine the spatial and temporal variability of microbial biomass, the activity of dehydrogenase (DHA) enzyme and the concentration of micro- (Na, Mg and Ca) and macroelements (Cu, Zn, Mn and Fe) in the soil, collected from 37 measurement sites (depth 0–30 cm) in a 40-hectare field during two growing seasons (wheat and oilseed rape). The percentage of nitrogen (%N) in the wheat grain and rapeseeds was also determined. Mapping the spatial distribution of the microbial biomass, the level of DHA activity and the concentration of the selected elements was used to assess the soil productivity. All tested soil parameters exhibited temporal and spatial variability. The creation of raster maps showing the distribution of the tested parameters allowed the observation of a higher nitrogen content in wheat grains in the south-western part of the field, with high values of DHA activity, bacterial biomass and soil pH. In the case of oilseed rape, plants grown in the northern part of the field were characterized by a higher nitrogen content in the grain, where the soil was characterized by a higher content of fungal biomass. On the basis of the obtained research results, a positive, statistically significant correlation was also shown between the biomass of bacteria and the level of DHA in the soil under the cultivation of both wheat and rape. The cultivation of both crops had a significant impact on the size of the microbial biomass pool and on the DHA activity level but did not affect the concentration of the nutrients in the soil. High concentrations of the analyzed elements at the measuring points correlated with a greater %N content in the grain/seeds of the crops harvested at those locations in the field. The results conclude that the mapping of the physicochemical parameters, microbial biomass and activity on the field permits the development of an effective strategy for maintaining sustainable soil productivity through the appropriate management of agricultural practices and the better approximation of mineral fertilization.
Endophytic Candida membranifaciens from Euphorbia milii L. Alleviate Salt Stress Damages in Maize
Authors: Jan Farzana Gul , Hamayun Muhammad , Hussain Anwar , Jan Gul , Ali Sajid , Khan Sumera Afzal , Lee In-Jung
Published: September 2022

Fungal endophytes are not widely known for their role in bioactive metabolite production and salinity stress alleviation in different crop plants. Presently, we investigated the salt stress (NaCl, KCl, and H2SO4) mitigation capabilities of fungal endophyte Candida membranifaciens (FH15) isolated from Euphorbia milii L. The pure culture filtrate (CF) of C. membranifaciens revealed siderophore production and solubilization of phosphate, with high levels of indoleacetic acid (IAA: 35.8µg/mL), phenolics (70 µg/mL), and flavonoids (50 µg/mL) by using a UV spectrophotometer. The LC/MS analysis of the CF showed different phenols and flavonoids that were identified as Salicylic acid, Baicalein, Aconitic acid, Feruloylquinic acid, Coniferyl aldehyde hexoside, Pentose, Chlorogenic acid, Myricetin, Propoxyphene, and Amino-flunitrazepam. Inoculation of maize seedlings with C. membranifaciens significantly (p = 0.05) enhanced the fresh and dry biomass, carotenoid, and chlorophyll contents under 100 mM salt stress conditions. Similarly, the catalase, peroxidase activity, phenols, proline flavonoids and relative water contents (RWC) of the maize plants were enhanced. More interestingly, the inoculation of C. membranifaciens on maize revealed a higher endogenous IAA level as compared to non-inoculated control plants. Endophyte C. membranifaciens inoculation on maize seedlings under salt stress revealed a 20.87% and 16.60% increase in fresh and dry biomass, as well as significantly enhanced root shoot length and allied growth attributes, in addition to an alleviation of the adverse effects of salinity stress. Conclusively, endophytic C. membranifaciens significantly enhanced the growth attributes of maize and mitigated the adverse effects of salinity stress. Such endophytic fungal strain could be used for further field trails to enhance agricultural productivity and facilitate sustainable agricultural practices.
The Effect of Combining N-Fertilization with Urease Inhibitors and Biological Preparations on Maize Biological Productivity
Authors: Drulis Povilas , Kriaučiūnienė Zita , Liakas Vytautas
Published: September 2022

After evaluating the ecological and economic aspects, it is predicted that the use of urease inhibitors and biological preparations should reduce the risk of nutrient leaching by using fertilizers containing amide, ammonium, and nitrate forms of nitrogen and would increase nitrogen use efficiency. Moreover, with lower nitrogen fertilizer rates, it would be possible to achieve or even increase planned maize biomass yield. The field experiment was performed in 2019–2021 at the Experimental Station of Vytautas Magnus University Agriculture Academy. The soil of the experimental field was Endohipogleyic-Eutric Planasol. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of urease inhibitors and biological preparations in combination with nitrogen fertilizers on the productivity of aboveground maize (Zea mays L.) biomass. A two-factor experiment was carried out: factor A included nitrogen fertilizer rates of (1) 100 kg N ha−1, (2) 140 kg N ha−1, and (3) 180 kg N ha−1; and factor B included the use of preparations of (1) no use of urease inhibitors (UIs) and biological preparations (BPs) (control), (2) the urease inhibitor ammonium thiosulphate (UI ATS), (3) the urease inhibitor (UI URN)—N-Butyl-thiophosphorus triamide (NBPT), (4) the biological preparation of suspension of humic and fulvic acids (BP HUM); and (5) the biological preparation (BP FIT) of suspension of Ascophyllum nodosum The studies showed that the dry matter yield of maize was significantly increased not only by increasing nitrogen fertilizer rates but also by the use of UIs and BPs. The highest dry matter yield of maize (24.1 t ha−1) was obtained with N180 fertilizer and UI ATS. UI ATS significantly increased the dry matter yield of the aboveground maize in all nitrogen fertilization backgrounds. The UIs and BPs tested had a greater and significant (p < 0.05) effect on the dry matter yield of maize at lower rates of N100 and N140 nitrogen fertilizer. Increasing nitrogen fertilizer rates up to N180 had a positive significant effect on dry matter yields of the aboveground part of maize, its cobs, leaves, and stems. Positive, moderate, strong, and very strong correlations were found in most cases between the latter variables. These correlations were statistically significant (r2 = 0.62–0.98). The UIs and BPs increased the efficiency of nitrogen fertilizer; therefore, the lower rates of nitrogen fertilizer (N100 and N140) could be used to produce maize productivity the same as that obtained with a high rate of nitrogen fertilizer (N180).
Dietary Iron Unlikely to Cause Insulin Resistance in Horses
Authors: McLean Nancy L. , McGilchrist Nerida , Nielsen Brian D.
Published: September 2022

Racehorses are often supplemented extra iron with the expectation that the iron will improve overall performance and health. A survey of 120 U.S. Thoroughbred trainers, representing 1978 Thoroughbreds from various regions of the U.S., was conducted to determine the average amount of dietary iron fed to Thoroughbred racehorses per day. Survey results indicated racehorses were fed an average of 3900 mg of iron per day from hay and grain alone. This exceeds the 0.8 mg/kg BW or 400 mg for a 500 kg working horse that the NRC 2007 recommends per day. Supplements increased the daily average intake of iron by an additional 500 mg Fe. Some equine nutritionists propose that excess dietary iron may be a causative factor in insulin resistance (IR). However, the occurrence of IR in Thoroughbred racehorses is very rare. This study did not find one confirmed veterinary diagnosis of IR in any of the surveyed trainers’ Thoroughbred horses, whether racing, on a layoff, or retired. Given the iron content in these diets easily exceeds the NRC minimum daily requirements, it seems unlikely that dietary iron is an independent causative factor in IR.
Barley, an Undervalued Cereal for Poultry Diets: Limitations and Opportunities
Authors: Perera W. Nipuna U. , Abdollahi M. Reza , Zaefarian Faegheh , Wester Timothy J. , Ravindran Velmurugu
Published: September 2022

The supply of conventional cereal grains, especially of maize, will be a significant constraint to the future growth of the poultry industry. Various alternative feed ingredients are being tested to replace maize in poultry diets. Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) is one such feed ingredient, the use of which remains limited in poultry diets due to its low metabolisable energy, presence of anti-nutritive, soluble non-starch polysaccharides and consequent inter-cultivar variability. Differences in research methodologies used in published studies have also contributed to the inconsistent findings, preventing a good understanding of the nutritional value of barley for poultry. The importance of using accurate nutrient profiles, specifically metabolisable energy and digestible amino acids, for specific barley cultivars to formulate barley-based diets is emphasised. Nutritionists should also pay close attention to feed processing conditions tailored to the specific barley cultivars to increase the barley inclusion in poultry diets.
Short- and Long-Term Exposure to Heat Stress Differently Affect Performance, Blood Parameters, and Integrity of Intestinal Epithelia of Growing Pigs
Authors: Vásquez Nydia , Cervantes Miguel , Bernal-Barragán Hugo , Rodríguez-Tovar Luis Edgar , Morales Adriana
Published: September 2022

The effect of short- and long-term exposure to heat stress (HS) was analyzed on blood components, performance, and intestinal epithelium integrity of pigs. Eighteen pigs (36.0 ± 3.5 kg BW) were assigned to three groups: thermo-neutral (TN); 2 d exposure to HS (2dHS); and 7 d exposure to HS (7dHS). Blood chemistry and hemogram analyses were performed; small intestine samples were analyzed for mRNA expression and histology. Compared to TN, 2dHS and 7dHS pigs reduced weight gain and feed intake; weight gain was higher in 7dHS than in 2dHS pigs (p < 0.05). White blood cells, platelet, and hematocrit were affected in 2dHS and 7dHS compared to TN pigs (p < 0.05). Short- and long-term exposure to HS affected blood concentration of triglycerides, urea, total protein, and albumin (p ≤ 0.05). Villi-height and crypt-depth decreased in HS pigs (p < 0.01). Mucin-producing and apoptotic cell number increased in 7dHS compared to TN pigs (p < 0.05). Expression of tight-junction-proteins decreased in 2dHS pigs compared to TN and 7dHS pigs (p < 0.05). Short-term exposure of pigs to HS dramatically affects performance, blood components, and integrity of the small intestine epithelia; nevertheless, pigs show signs of recovery at 7 d of HS exposure.
High-Resolution Epitope Mapping and Affinity Binding Analysis Comparing a New Anti-Human LAG3 Rabbit Antibody Clone to the Commonly Used Mouse 17B4 Clone
Authors: Warren P. Daniel , Dodson Mark S. , Smith Margaret H. , Landowski Terry H. , Palting John Douglas , Towne Penny
Published: September 2022

Lymphocyte activation gene 3 (LAG3) is a T cell inhibitory receptor that promotes tumor cell immune escape and is a potential target for cancer diagnostic and immunotherapeutic applications. We used automated capillary electrophoresis (ACE), surface plasmon resonance (SPR), and immunohistochemistry (IHC) to compare the binding characteristics of a new anti-LAG3 rabbit antibody clone, SP464, with the thirty-year old and extensively used anti-LAG3 mouse 17B4 clone. The rabbit SP464 clone exhibited between 20× to 30× greater binding to LAG3 than did the mouse 17B4 clone. Using these tools, we precisely mapped the relative locations of the epitopes of these two antibodies. The SP464 and 17B4 minimal epitopes were localized to separate, but overlapping, sub-fragments within the amino-terminal fifteen acids of the original thirty-mer peptide immunogen used to generate both antibodies. Application of this approach for quantifying the effects of alanine substitutions along the minimal SP464 epitope identified two amino acids essential for binding and four amino acids that likely contribute towards binding. Together, ACE, SPR, and IHC constitute a powerful orthologous approach for comparing antibody-binding characteristics and for fine mapping of linear epitopes within short immunogens. Our results indicate that the rabbit clone SP464 may be useful for assessing LAG3 expression.
Synthetic Amphipathic β-Sheet Temporin-Derived Peptide with Dual Antibacterial and Anti-Inflammatory Activities
Authors: Bellavita Rosa , Buommino Elisabetta , Casciaro Bruno , Merlino Francesco , Cappiello Floriana , Marigliano Noemi , Saviano Anella , Maione Francesco , Santangelo Rosaria , Mangoni Maria Luisa , Galdiero Stefania , Grieco Paolo , Falanga Annarita
Published: September 2022

Temporin family is one of the largest among antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), which act mainly by penetrating and disrupting the bacterial membranes. To further understand the relationship between the physical-chemical properties and their antimicrobial activity and selectivity, an analogue of Temporin L, [Nle1, dLeu9, dLys10]TL (Nle-Phe-Val-Pro-Trp-Phe-Lys-Phe-dLeu-dLys-Arg-Ile-Leu-CONH2) has been developed in the present work. The design strategy consisted of the addition of a norleucine residue at the N-terminus of the lead peptide sequence, [dLeu9, dLys10]TL, previously developed by our group. This modification promoted an increase of peptide hydrophobicity and, interestingly, more efficient activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative strains, without affecting human keratinocytes and red blood cells survival compared to the lead peptide. Thus, this novel compound was subjected to biophysical studies, which showed that the peptide [Nle1, dLeu9, dLys10]TL is unstructured in water, while it adopts β-type conformation in liposomes mimicking bacterial membranes, in contrast to its lead peptide forming α-helical aggregates. After its aggregation in the bacterial membrane, [Nle1, dLeu9, dLys10]TL induced membrane destabilization and deformation. In addition, the increase of peptide hydrophobicity did not cause a loss of anti-inflammatory activity of the peptide [Nle1, dLeu9, dLys10]TL in comparison with its lead peptide. In this study, our results demonstrated that positive net charge, optimum hydrophobic−hydrophilic balance, and chain length remain the most important parameters to be addressed while designing small cationic AMPs.
Antibiotic Choices for Pediatric Periorbital Cellulitis—A 20-Year Retrospective Study from Taiwan
Authors: Shih En-Jie , Chen Jui-Kuang , Tsai Pei-Jhen , Lin Muh-Chiou , Bee Youn-Shen
Published: September 2022

The delayed treatment of pediatric periorbital cellulitis may have severe consequences. In addition, the antibiotic efficacy against causative bacteria may change over time, and it is important to understand the appropriate antibiotic options for effective treatment in pediatric patients. We compared the changes in cultured bacteria and drug susceptibility tests between two decades, 2010–2019 and 2000–2009, to establish antibiotics for empirical use. The patient characteristics, etiologies, culture sites, and isolated bacteria, and the antibiotic susceptibility tests of the admitted pediatric patients (n = 207) diagnosed with preseptal and orbital cellulitis during 2000 to 2019, were recorded. Insect/animal bites (p = 0.084) showed an increasing trend, and sinusitis (p = 0.016) showed a significant decrease in the past decades. The most common bacteria were Staphylococcus aureus, and methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) infections increased in recent decades (p = 0.01). Moreover, we found that vancomycin was ideal for MRSA infections. The decreasing efficacy of oxacillin correlates with the increasing proportion of MRSA in pediatric periorbital cellulitis. Our study thus offers antibiotic choices against the most common isolates that can be administered before culture results are available.
Potential Utility of Ultrasound-Enhanced Delivery of Antibiotics, Anti-Inflammatory Agents, and Nutraceuticals: A Mini Review
Authors: Ead J. Karim , Sharma Arjun , Goransson Miranda , Armstrong David G.
Published: September 2022

Ultrasound technology has therapeutic properties that can be harnessed to enhance topical drug delivery in a process known as phonophoresis. The literature on this method of drug delivery is currently sparse and scattered. In this review, we explore in vivo and in vitro controlled trials as well as studies detailing the mechanism of action in phonophoresis to gain a clearer picture of the treatment modality and explore its utility in chronic wound management. Upon review, we believe that phonophoresis has the potential to aid in chronic wound management, particularly against complicated bacterial biofilms. This would offer a minimally invasive wound management option for patients in the community.
The Mechanisms of Zinc Action as a Potent Anti-Viral Agent: The Clinical Therapeutic Implication in COVID-19
Authors: Prasad Ananda S. , Malysa Agnes , Bepler Gerold , Fribley Andrew , Bao Bin
Published: September 2022

The pandemic of COVID-19 was caused by a novel coronavirus termed as SARS-CoV2 and is still ongoing with high morbidity and mortality rates in the whole world. The pathogenesis of COVID-19 is highly linked with over-active immune and inflammatory responses, leading to activated cytokine storm, which contribute to ARDS with worsen outcome. Currently, there is no effective therapeutic drug for the treatment of COVID-19. Zinc is known to act as an immune modulator, which plays an important role in immune defense system. Recently, zinc has been widely considered as an anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant agent. Accumulating numbers of studies have revealed that zinc plays an important role in antiviral immunity in several viral infections. Several early clinical trials clearly indicate that zinc treatment remarkably decreased the severity of the upper respiratory infection of rhinovirus in humans. Currently, zinc has been used for the therapeutic intervention of COVID-19 in many different clinical trials. Several clinical studies reveal that zinc treatment using a combination of HCQ and zinc pronouncedly reduced symptom score and the rates of hospital admission and mortality in COVID-19 patients. These data support that zinc might act as an anti-viral agent in the addition to its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties for the adjuvant therapeutic intervention of COVID-19.
Intraocular Pressure-Induced Endothelial Dysfunction of Retinal Blood Vessels Is Persistent, but Does Not Trigger Retinal Ganglion Cell Loss
Authors: Wang Maoren , Liu Hanhan , Xia Ning , Li Huige , van Beers Tim , Gericke Adrian , Prokosch Verena
Published: September 2022

Research has been conducted into vascular abnormalities in the pathogenesis of glaucoma, but conclusions remain controversial. Our aim was to test the hypothesis that retinal endothelial dysfunction induced by elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) persists after IOP normalization, further triggering retinal ganglion cell (RGC) loss. High intraocular pressure (HP) was induced in mice by episcleral vein occlusion (EVO). Retinal vascular function was measured via video microscopy in vitro. The IOP, RGC and their axons survival, levels of oxidative stress and inflammation as well as vascular pericytes coverage, were determined. EVO caused HP for two weeks, which returned to baseline afterwards. Mice with HP exhibited endothelial dysfunction in retinal arterioles, reduced density of RGC and their axons, and loss of pericytes in retinal arterioles. Notably, these values were similar to those of mice with recovered IOP (RP). Levels of oxidative stress and inflammation were increased in HP mice but went back to normal in the RP mice. Our data demonstrate that HP induces persistent endothelial dysfunction in retinal arterioles, which persists one month after RP. Oxidative stress, inflammation, and loss of pericytes appear to be involved in triggering vascular functional deficits. Our data also suggest that retinal endothelial dysfunction does not affect RGC and their axon survival.
Resveratrol Supplementation in Obese Pregnant Rats Improves Maternal Metabolism and Prevents Increased Placental Oxidative Stress
Authors: Rodríguez-González Guadalupe L. , Vargas-Hernández Lilia , Reyes-Castro Luis A. , Ibáñez Carlos A. , Bautista Claudia J. , Lomas-Soria Consuelo , Itani Nozomi , Estrada-Gutierrez Guadalupe , Espejel-Nuñez Aurora , Flores-Pliego Arturo , Montoya-Estrada Araceli , Reyes-Muñoz Enrique , Taylor Paul D. , Nathanielsz Peter W. , Zambrano Elena
Published: September 2022

Maternal obesity (MO) causes maternal and fetal oxidative stress (OS) and metabolic dysfunction. We investigated whether supplementing obese mothers with resveratrol improves maternal metabolic alterations and reduces OS in the placenta and maternal and fetal liver. From weaning through pregnancy female Wistar rats ate chow (C) or a high-fat diet (MO). One month before mating until 19 days’ gestation (dG), half the rats received 20 mg resveratrol/kg/d orally (Cres and MOres). At 19dG, maternal body weight, retroperitoneal fat adipocyte size, metabolic parameters, and OS biomarkers in the placenta and liver were determined. MO mothers showed higher body weight, triglycerides and leptin serum concentrations, insulin resistance (IR), decreased small and increased large adipocytes, liver fat accumulation, and hepatic upregulation of genes related to IR and inflammatory processes. Placenta, maternal and fetal liver OS biomarkers were augmented in MO. MOres mothers showed more small and fewer large adipocytes, lower triglycerides serum concentrations, IR and liver fat accumulation, downregulation of genes related to IR and inflammatory processes, and lowered OS in mothers, placentas, and female fetal liver. Maternal resveratrol supplementation in obese rats improves maternal metabolism and reduces placental and liver OS of mothers and fetuses in a sex-dependent manner.
Water Caltrop (Trapa quadrispinosa Roxb.) Husk Improves Oxidative Stress and Postprandial Blood Glucose in Diabetes: Phenolic Profiles, Antioxidant Activities and α-Glycosidase Inhibition of Different Fractions with In Vitro and In Silico Analyses
Authors: Zhang Yuanyue , Cai Shengbao , Ma Shuang , Zhao Shuai , Yi Junjie , Zhou Linyan
Published: September 2022

The aim of this study was to investigate the phenolic profiles, antioxidant activities and α-glycosidase inhibitory activities of three different phenolic fractions from water caltrop (Trapa quadrispinosa Roxb.) husk and to further explore the predominant compounds and their mechanisms on α-glycosidase inhibition by virtual screening and molecular dynamics. A total of 29 substances were identified and quantified in this study. Tannins were the main constituents of water caltrop husk extract. All of the free phenolic (FP), esterified phenolic (EP) and insoluble-bound phenolic (BP) fractions exhibited good antioxidant activities, and the BP had the highest radical scavenging ability with IC50 values of 0.82 ± 0.12 μg/mL (ABTS) and 1.15 ± 0.02 μg/mL (DPPH), respectively (p < 0.05). However, compared with the EP and BP, the FP showed the strongest inhibition towards the α-glycosidase and the IC50 value of FP was 1.43 ± 0.12 μg/mL. The 1,2,6-trigalloylglucose and α-glycosidase complex had better root mean square deviations (RMSD) stability via molecular dynamics simulation study. Results obtained from this study may provide a good potential natural resource for the improvement of oxidative stress injury and blood glucose control in diabetes mellitus, which could expand the use of water caltrop husk and improve its economic value.