bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical Features, Neuropsychology and Neuroimaging in Bipolar and Borderline Personality Disorder: A Systematic Review of Cross-Diagnostic Studies
Authors: Massó Rodriguez Anna , Hogg Bridget , Gardoki-Souto Itxaso , Valiente-Gómez Alicia , Trabsa Amira , Mosquera Dolores , García-Estela Aitana , Colom Francesc , Pérez Victor , Padberg Frank , Moreno-Alcázar Ana , Amann Benedikt Lorenz
Published: June 2021

Background: Bipolar Disorder (BD) and Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) have clinically been evolving as separate disorders, though there is still debate on the nosological valence of both conditions, their interaction in terms of co-morbidity or disorder spectrum and their distinct pathophysiology.

Objective: The objective of this review is to summarize evidence regarding clinical features, neuropsychological performance and neuroimaging findings from cross-diagnostic studies comparing BD and BPD, to further caracterize their complex interplay.

Methods: Using PubMed, PsycINFO and TripDataBase, we conducted a systematic literature search based on PRISMA guidelines of studies published from January 1980 to September 2019 which directly compared BD and BPD.

Results: A total of 28 studies comparing BD and BPD were included: 19 compared clinical features, 6 neuropsychological performance and three neuroimaging abnormalities. Depressive symptoms have an earlier onset in BPD than BD. BD patients present more mixed or manic symptoms, with BD-I differing from BPD in manic phases. BPD patients show more negative attitudes toward others and self, more conflictive interpersonal relationships, and more maladaptive regulation strategies in affective instability with separate pathways. Impulsivity seems more a trait in BPD rather than a state as in BD. Otherwise, BD and BPD overlap in depressive and anxious symptoms, dysphoria, various abnormal temperamental traits, suicidal ideation, and childhood trauma. Both disorders differ and share deficits in neuropsychological and neuroimaging findings.

Conclusion: Clinical data provide evidence of overlapping features in both disorders, with most of those shared symptoms being more persistent and intense in BPD. Thus, categorical classifications should be compared to dimensional approaches in transdiagnostic studies investigating BPD features in BD regarding their respective explanatory power for individual trajectories.

Systematic Review Registration: The search strategy was pre-registered in PROSPERO: CRD42018100268.
Sexual Knowledge, Desires, and Experience of Adolescents and Young Adults With an Autism Spectrum Disorder: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Joyal Christian C. , Carpentier Julie , McKinnon Suzie , Normand Claude L. , Poulin Marie-Hélène
Published: June 2021

Although most persons with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) wish to have romantic and/or sexual relationships, little is known about self-report sexuality of adolescents/young adults with ASD. In this exploratory study, 172 male and female adolescents/young adults (68 with ASD and 104 without ASD) completed an online version of the Sexual Behavior Scale-Third edition. Although many more similarities than differences were observed between the groups for views and desires about romantic relationships (e.g., wishing to have a girlfriend/boyfriend), fewer participants with ASD (mostly boys) had experience with a variety of sexual/dyadic behaviors, and approximately half of girls with ASD reported negative sexual experiences. Significantly higher rates of participants with ASD felt their knowledge about sexuality was limited and found it difficult to understand sexual education compared with typically developing (TD) participants. Significantly lower rates of participants with ASD reported that they identify to their assigned gender compared with TD participants. Multiple regressions revealed that being older at first diagnosis and possessing better knowledge about sexuality were significant predictors of both positive and negative sexual experience. This study explores strengths and challenges related with the sexual health of adolescents/young adults with ASD and implications for clinical and educational practice are discussed.
Relevance of Brain 18F-FDG PET Imaging in Probable Seronegative Encephalitis With Catatonia: A Case Report
Authors: Guetta Michaël , Kas Aurélie , Aouidad Aveline , Soret Marine , Allenbach Yves , Bordonné Manon , Oppetit Alice , Raffin Marie , Psimaras Dimitri , Cohen David , Consoli Angèle
Published: June 2021

Autoimmune encephalitis (AIE) is a rare, severe, and rapidly progressive encephalopathy, and its diagnosis is challenging, especially in adolescent populations when the presentation is mainly psychiatric. Currently, cerebral 18-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (18F-FDG-PET) imaging is not included in the diagnosis algorithm. We describe a 16-year-old patient with probable seronegative encephalitis with catatonia for which several cerebral PET scans were relevant and helpful for diagnosis, treatment decision making, and follow-up monitoring. The patient recovered after 2 years of treatment with etiologic treatment of AIE and treatment of catatonia. This case suggests a more systematic assessment of the clinical relevance of 18F-FDG-PET imaging in probable seronegative AIE.
Variability in Infants' Functional Brain Network Connectivity Is Associated With Differences in Affect and Behavior
Authors: Kelsey Caroline M. , Farris Katrina , Grossmann Tobias
Published: June 2021

Variability in functional brain network connectivity has been linked to individual differences in cognitive, affective, and behavioral traits in adults. However, little is known about the developmental origins of such brain-behavior correlations. The current study examined functional brain network connectivity and its link to behavioral temperament in typically developing newborn and 1-month-old infants (M [age] = 25 days; N = 75) using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). Specifically, we measured long-range connectivity between cortical regions approximating fronto-parietal, default mode, and homologous-interhemispheric networks. Our results show that connectivity in these functional brain networks varies across infants and maps onto individual differences in behavioral temperament. Specifically, connectivity in the fronto-parietal network was positively associated with regulation and orienting behaviors, whereas connectivity in the default mode network showed the opposite effect on these behaviors. Our analysis also revealed a significant positive association between the homologous-interhemispheric network and infants' negative affect. The current results suggest that variability in long-range intra-hemispheric and cross-hemispheric functional connectivity between frontal, parietal, and temporal cortex is associated with individual differences in affect and behavior. These findings shed new light on the brain origins of individual differences in early-emerging behavioral traits and thus represent a viable novel approach for investigating developmental trajectories in typical and atypical neurodevelopment.
Ceremonial Ayahuasca in Amazonian Retreats—Mental Health and Epigenetic Outcomes From a Six-Month Naturalistic Study
Authors: Ruffell Simon G. D. , Netzband Nige , Tsang WaiFung , Davies Merlin , Inserra Antonio , Butler Matthew , Rucker James J. H. , Tófoli Luís Fernando , Dempster Emma Louise , Young Allan H. , Morgan Celia J. A.
Published: June 2021

Ayahuasca is a natural psychoactive brew, used in traditional ceremonies in the Amazon basin. Recent research has indicated that ayahuasca is pharmacologically safe and its use may be positively associated with improvements in psychiatric symptoms. The mechanistic effects of ayahuasca are yet to be fully established. In this prospective naturalistic study, 63 self-selected participants took part in ayahuasca ceremonies at a retreat centre in the Peruvian Amazon. Participants undertook the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II), State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), Self-compassion Scale (SCS), Clinical Outcomes in Routine Evaluation-Outcome Measure (CORE-OM), as well as secondary measures, pre- and post-retreat and at 6-months. Participants also provided saliva samples for pre/post epigenetic analysis. Overall, a statistically significant decrease in BDI-II (13.9 vs. 6.1,p< 0.001), STAI (44.4 vs. 34.3p< 0.001) scores, and CORE-OM scores were observed (37.3 vs. 22.3p< 0.001) at post-retreat, as well as a concurrent increase in SCS (3.1 vs. 3.6,p< 0.001). Psychometric improvements were sustained, and on some measures values further decreased at 6-month follow-up, suggesting a potential for lasting therapeutic effects. Changes in memory valence were linked to the observed psychometric improvements. Epigenetic findings were equivocal, but indicated that further research in candidate genes, such as sigma non-opioid intracellular receptor 1 (SIGMAR1), is warranted. This data adds to the literature supporting ayahuasca's possible positive impact on mental health when conducted in a ceremonial context. Further investigation into clinical samples, as well as greater analyses into the mechanistic action of ayahuasca is advised.
COVID-19 Pandemic Awareness, Attitudes, and Practices Among the Pakistani General Public
Authors: Rehman Rehana , Jawed Shireen , Ali Rabiya , Noreen Khola , Baig Mukhtiar , Baig Javaria
Published: June 2021

Background: Outbreak of COVID-19, in many countries, has imposed a lockdown on their residents. The usefulness of extenuative actions is extremely reliant on society's knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) toward pandemic control.

Objective: This study aimed to explore the awareness, attitudes, and practices of the general Pakistani population to COVID-19.

Methods: From June 13, 2020, until June 30, 2020, a cross-sectional online KAP survey was conducted among the Pakistani public. For data collection, a validated self-administered questionnaire was used. The survey instrument consisted of six demographic characteristics, 14 items on knowledge, four on attitudes, and six items on practices, modified from a previously published questionnaire on COVID-19.

Results: The present study included 2,307 participants, 58.3% males and 41.7% of females. The majority (86.7%) sought information from social media (SM) and television, 95% had good practices, 89.9% had positive attitudes, and two-thirds (67.4%) of the respondents had adequate knowledge. The students and people from younger age groups had more positive attitudes compared with others. Highly educated w with other groups (p < 0.001). In logistic regression analysis, the odds ratio indicated that the private job was negatively associated, and high monthly income was positively associated with adequate knowledge (OR = 0.595). Old age was the predictor of negative attitude, and high school degrees and master's degrees were associated with good practice scores.

Conclusion: The Pakistani general population has an overall positive attitude and proactive practices against COVID-19, but their knowledge is inadequate. The most important source of information was SM, followed by television. These are playing a crucial role in educating the Pakistani public.
Proficiency From Immersion: A Human-Centered Design in Cross-Cultural Surgical Training
Authors: Li Meng , Ganni Sandeep , Albayrak Armagan , Rutkowski Anne F. , van Eijk Daan , Jakimowicz Jack
Published: June 2021

Ensuring surgeons are well-trained in various skills is of paramount importance to patient safety. Surgical simulators were introduced to laparoscopy training during the last 2 decades for basic skills training. The main drawback of current simulation-based laparoscopy training is their lack of true representation of the intro-operative experience. To create a complete surgical surrounding, the required amount of resources is demanding. Moreover, organizing immersive training with surgical teams burdens daily clinical routines. High-end virtual reality (VR) headsets bring an opportunity to generate an immersive virtual OR with accessible and affordable expenses. Pilot studies reveal that personalization and localization are key needs of the virtual operating room (VOR). They are therefore key in this study. The focus of this study was to explore the effect of different human factors, such as domain knowledge, culture, and familiarity of VR technologies, on the perception of VOR experience. A human-centered design approach was applied to investigate the presence and usability of a VOR. Sixty-four surgical practitioners joined the study in the Netherlands and India. The surgeons were referred to as “experts” and surgical trainees as “novices.” The VOR system we used is composed of a laparoscopic simulator, a graphic virtual OR surrounding, and an Oculus Rift VR headset. Participants conducted the “complete Lapchol” task with the VOR. Afterward, four questionnaires were used to collect subjective ratings on presence and usability. Participant’s qualitative feedback was collected using a semi-structural interview as the final stage. Results showed the surgical knowledge only affected perceived mental demand when using a VOR. The cultural difference would alter the rating on the majority of items in these questionnaires. VR experience mainly affected the judgment on presence including “quality of interface” and “reversible actions.” The interaction effects between surgical knowledge either with culture difference or with VR experience were obvious. This study demonstrated the influences of cultural differences on the perception of immersion and usability. Integrating immersive technologies such as virtual reality and augmented reality to human-centered design opens a brand new horizon for health care and similar professional training.
Biceps Femoris Long Head Muscle Fascicles Actively Lengthen During the Nordic Hamstring Exercise
Authors: Raiteri Brent J. , Beller Ronja , Hahn Daniel
Published: June 2021

Current debate exists around whether a presumed eccentric exercise, the Nordic hamstring exercise (NHE), actually causes active hamstring muscle lengthening. This is because of the decoupling that can occur between the muscle fascicle and muscle-tendon unit (MTU) length changes in relatively compliant human lower-limb MTUs, which results in MTU lengthening not necessarily causing muscle fascicle lengthening. This missing knowledge complicates the interpretation of why the NHE is effective at reducing running-related hamstring muscle injury risk in athletes previously unfamiliar with performing this exercise. The purpose of the study was therefore to investigate if the most-commonly injured hamstring muscle, the biceps femoris long head (BF), exhibits active muscle lengthening (i.e. an eccentric muscle action) during the NHE up until peak force in Nordic novices. External reaction force at the ankle, knee flexion angle, and BF and semitendinosus muscle activities were recorded from the left leg of 14 participants during the NHE. Simultaneously, BF muscle architecture was imaged using B-mode ultrasound imaging, and muscle architecture changes were tracked using two different tracking algorithms. From ~85 to 100% of peak NHE force, both tracking algorithms detected that BF muscle fascicles (n = 10) significantly lengthened (p < 0.01) and had a mean positive lengthening velocity (p ≤ 0.02), while knee extension velocity remained positive (17°·s−1) over knee flexion angles from 53 to 37° and a duration of 1.6 s. Despite some individual cases of brief isometric fascicle behavior and brief fascicle shortening during BF MTU lengthening, the predominant muscle action was eccentric under a relatively high muscle activity level (59% of maximum). Eccentric hamstring muscle action therefore does occur during the NHE in relatively strong (429 N) Nordic novices, which might contribute to the increase in resting BF muscle fascicle length and reduction in running-related injury risk, which have previously been reported following NHE training. Whether an eccentric BF muscle action occurs in individuals accustomed to the NHE remains to be tested.
Efficacy and Safety of Ligation Combined With Sclerotherapy for Patients With Acute Esophageal Variceal Bleeding in Cirrhosis: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Su Juan , Zhang Huilin , Ren Maifang , Xing Yanan , Yin Yuefei , Liu Lihua
Published: June 2021

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of endoscopic variceal ligation + endoscopic injection sclerotherapy (EVL+EIS) to control acute variceal bleeding (AVB).

Methods: Online databases, including Web of Science, PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), China Biology Medicine (CBM) disc, VIP, and Wanfang, were searched to identify the studies comparing the differences between EVB+EIS and EVB, EIS from the inception of the databases up to December 30, 2020. STATA 13.0 was used for the meta-analysis.

Results: A total of eight studies involving 595 patients (317 patients in the EVL group and 278 patients in the EVL+EIS group) were included. The results of the meta-analysis did not reveal any statistically significant differences in the efficacy of acute bleeding control (P = 0.981), overall rebleeding (P = 0.415), variceal eradication (P = 0.960), and overall mortality (P = 0.314), but a significant difference was noted in the overall complications (P = 0.01).

Conclusion: EVL is superior to the combination of EVL and EIS in safety, while no statistically significant differences were detected in efficacy. Further studies should be designed with a large sample size, multiple centers, and randomized controlled trials to assess both clinical interventions.
Prednisolone in Dogs—Plasma Exposure and White Blood Cell Response
Authors: Ekstrand Carl , Pettersson Helena , Gehring Ronette , Hedeland Mikael , Adolfsson Sara , Lilliehöök Inger
Published: June 2021

Glucocorticoids such as prednisolone are commonly used in dogs but there is sparse quantitative pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic information of this drug in this species. The objective of this study was to quantitatively characterize the concentration-effect relationship for prednisolone in dogs on neutrophil and lymphocyte trafficking and cortisol suppression. Nine beagles, 2–12 years old and part of a group for teaching/research were used in a 4-way crossover experiment including two treatments, active or placebo, administered eitherper os(PO) or intravenously (IV). Plasma was analyzed for prednisolone and cortisol using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography – tandem mass spectrometry. Leucocyte counts were performed in whole blood. Data was then analyzed by non-linear mixed effect modeling to estimate pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic parameters. After administration of prednisolone sodium succinate IV, the typical value (between subject variation) for total body prednisolone clearance was 1,370 ml/h·kg (13.4%). The volumes of the central and peripheral compartment were 2,300 ml/kg (10.7%) and 600 ml/kg (16.0%), respectively. The terminal plasma half-life was 1.7 h. The prednisolone plasma concentration producing 50% of the maximum response was 10 ng/mL (90.3%), 22.5 ng/ml (52.3%) and 0.04 ng/mL (197.3%) for neutrophil, lymphocyte and cortisol response, respectively. The administered dose (1 mg/kg) increased neutrophil and decreased lymphocyte numbers but not over the entire dosage interval of 24 h, due to the short half-life. However, glucocorticoids have a wide range of responses. An anti-inflammatory response due to altered gene transcription might have a longer duration. Future studies on the anti-inflammatory potency together with data presented are needed to optimize future dosage recommendations in dogs.
Occurrence of Endoparasites in Adult Swedish Dogs: A Coprological Investigation
Authors: Grandi Giulio , Victorsson Ida , Osterman-Lind Eva , Höglund Johan
Published: June 2021

The occurrence of endoparasites in Swedish adult dogs (n = 303) was investigated between January and October 2014. Included dogs had to be clinically healthy, older than 1 year and untreated with anthelmintics or endectocides for at least 3 months prior to sampling. They were grouped according to age, category of dog and time since last antiparasitic treatment. Samples were analyzed by flotation to detect parasitic eggs and cysts/oocysts. Among these, 129 (43%) dogs were also analyzed with the Baermann-technique to detect cardiopulmonary larval stages. Parasite dispersal stages were found in 24 (7.9%, CI 95% 4.9–10.1) of the dogs at flotation, while no dog shed cardiopulmonary larval stages. Giardia sp. cysts were observed in 2.6% (n = 8) of dogs examined, cysts of Sarcocystis spp. were observed in 0.6% (n = 2), oocysts of Cystosisopora ohioensis were found in one dog (0.3%). Eggs of Toxocara canis (2.3%, n = 7), Uncinaria stenocephala (1.3%, n = 4) and Trichuris vulpis (0.3%, one dog) were found. None of the dogs were diagnosed with more than one species. Although the occurrence of endoparasites was above the average in dogs ≤ 2 years of age (11.5%), nematodes were more common in older dogs ≥4 years (77.0%). Although the occurrence was lower in working/exhibition dogs (5.9%) than in companion dogs (8.4%) and hunting-dogs (8.6%), these differences were not significant. However, dogs exposed to prey according to the owner had a statistically significant higher prevalence than other dogs (20.5 vs. 5.7%). The Odds Ratio (OR) was 4.0 (CI 95%, 1.58–10.11) for dogs having access to prey, 2.4 (CI 95%, 0.37–8.06) for dogs staying at day-care, and 2 (CI 95%, 0.96–5.96) for bitches. Furthermore, a significant association was observed between infection with nematodes and exposures to prey (p = 0.006). As a reference, data on the endoparasites in canine fecal samples submitted to the National Veterinary Institute (SVA, Uppsala) during 2014 are presented. Overall, this study shows a low occurrence of endoparasites among dogs in Sweden. Any risk-assessment on zoonotic parasites as well as deworming recommendations will take advantage from these updated figures.
Systemic Agent-Based Modeling and Analysis of Passenger Discretionary Activities in Airport Terminals
Authors: Mekić Adin , Mohammadi Ziabari Seyed Sahand , Sharpanskykh Alexei
Published: June 2021

Discretionary activities such as retail, food, and beverages generate a significant amount of non-aeronautical revenue within the aviation industry. However, they are rarely taken into account in computational airport terminal models. Since discretionary activities affect passenger flow and global airport terminal performance, discretionary activities need to be studied in detail. Additionally, discretionary activities are influenced by other airport terminal processes, such as check-in and security. Thus, discretionary activities need to be studied in relation to other airport terminal processes. The aim of this study is to analyze discretionary activities in a systemic way, taking into account interdependencies with other airport terminal processes and operational strategies used to manage these processes. An agent-based simulation model for airport terminal operations was developed, which covers the main handling processes and passenger decision-making with discretionary activities. The obtained simulation results show that operational strategies that reduce passenger queue time or increase passenger free time can significantly improve global airport terminal performance through efficiency, revenue, and cost.
Genetic Variability, Correlation among Agronomic Traits, and Genetic Progress in a Sugarcane Diversity Panel
Authors: Barreto Fernanda Zatti , Balsalobre Thiago Willian Almeida , Chapola Roberto Giacomini , Garcia Antonio Augusto Franco , Souza Anete Pereira , Hoffmann Hermann Paulo , Gazaffi Rodrigo , Carneiro Monalisa Sampaio
Published: June 2021

Sugarcane breeding programs require 15 years of experimentation to create more productive cultivars, and estimates of genetic progress can indicate the efficiency of breeding programs. In this study, we used a diversity panel, the Brazilian Panel of Sugarcane Genotypes (BPSG), with the following objectives: (i) to estimate, through a mixed model, the adjusted means and genetic parameters of ten traits evaluated over three harvest years; (ii) to estimate genotypic correlation among those traits; and (iii) to estimate genetic progress over six decades of breeding. The heritabilities ranged from 0.43 to 0.88, and we detected 42 significant correlations, 9 negative and 33 positive. Over six decades, the sucrose-related traits BRIX, POL%C, and POL%J showed an average increase per decade of 0.27 °Brix, 0.26% and 0.31%, respectively. Stalk number, height, and weight of the plot, and cane and sucrose yields revealed average increases per decade of 3.27 stalks, 0.06 m, 9.42 kg, 11.22 t/ha, and 2.08 t/ha, respectively. The genetic progress of the main agronomic traits is discussed through a historical series of sugarcane genotypes present in the BPSG. The findings of this study could contribute to the management of new breeding strategies and allow for future studies of associative mapping.
The Effect of Acetic Acid Treatments on the Quality of Stored Carrot (Daucus carota L.) Seeds
Authors: Dorna Hanna , Rosińska Agnieszka , Szopińska Dorota
Published: June 2021

Alternaria dauci (J.G. Kühn) J.W. Groves et Skolko and A. radicina Meier, Drechsler et E.D. Eddy are important seed-transmitted pathogens of carrot. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of acetic acid treatments on the quality of stored carrot seeds. Seeds of two samples were soaked for 30 min in 0.5, 1 and 2% acetic acid. Controls included untreated seeds, seeds soaked in distilled water and seeds treated with fungicide Zaprawa Nasienna T 75 WS/DS (a.i. thiram 75%). Germination, vigour and health of untreated and treated seeds were evaluated before and after 5 and 12 months of storage at 4 and 20 °C. Seeds of both samples treated with 0.5 and 1% acetic acid were characterized by higher germination capacity after storage than untreated seeds. However, treatments with 1 and 2% acetic acid negatively affected seed vigour. Generally, seeds of both samples treated with acetic acid were characterized by lower infestation with A. alternata and A. radicina after storage than untreated seeds and seeds soaked in distilled water. Moreover, acetic acid often controlled these fungi more effectively than the fungicide. Regardless of the storage duration, infestation with fungi was higher if seeds of both samples were stored at a lower temperature.
Screening of Lactic Acid Bacteria with Inhibitory Activity against ETEC K88 as Feed Additive and the Effects on Sows and Piglets
Authors: Wang Weiwei , Ma Hao , Zhu Yajie , Ni Kuikui , Qin Guangyong , Tan Zhongfang , Wang Yanping , Wang Lei , Pang Huili
Published: June 2021

Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC), which expresses K88 is the principal microorganism responsible for bacterial diarrhea in pig husbandry, and the indiscriminate use of antibiotics has caused many problems; therefore, antibiotics need to be replaced in order to prevent diarrhea caused by ETEC K88. The objective of this study was to screen excellent lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains that inhibit ETEC K88 and explore their effects as probiotic supplementation on reproduction, growth performance, diarrheal incidence, and antioxidant capacity of serum in sows and weaned piglets. Three LAB strains, P7, P8, and P15, screened from 295 LAB strains and assigned to Lactobacillus (L.) reuteri, L. amylovorus, and L. johnsonii with high inhibitory activity against ETEC K88 were selected for a study on feeding of sows and weaned piglets. These strains were chosen for their good physiological and biochemical characteristics, excellent exopolysaccharide (EPS) production capacity, hydrophobicity, auto-aggregation ability, survival in gastrointestinal (GI) fluids, lack of hemolytic activity, and broad-spectrum activity against a wide range of microorganisms. The results indicate that LAB strains P7, P8, and P15 had significant effects on improving the reproductive performance of sows and the growth performance of weaned piglets, increasing the activity of antioxidant enzymes and immune indexes in both.
Cognitive Enrichment in Practice: A Survey of Factors Affecting Its Implementation in Zoos Globally
Authors: Hall Belinda A. , McGill David M. , Sherwen Sally L. , Doyle Rebecca E.
Published: June 2021

Information on the practical use of cognitive enrichment in zoos is scarce. This survey aimed to identify where cognitive enrichment is being used while identifying factors that may limit its implementation and success. Distributed in eight languages to increase global range, responses to this survey (n = 177) show that while agreement on what constitutes cognitive enrichment is poor, it is universally perceived as very important for animal welfare. Carnivores were the animal group most reported to receive cognitive enrichment (76.3%), while amphibians and fish the least (16.9%). All animal groups had a percentage of participants indicating animal groups in their facility were not receiving cognitive enrichment when they believe that they should (29.4–44.6%). On average, factors relating to time and finance were rated most highly in terms of effect on cognitive enrichment use, and keeper interest was the highest rated for effect on success. Results of this study indicate that cognitive enrichment is perceived as important. However, placing the responsibility of its development and implementation on animal keepers who are already time-poor may be impeding its use. A commitment to incorporating cognitive enrichment into routine husbandry, including financial support and investment into staff is needed from zoos to ensure continued improvement to captive animal welfare.
Effects of Dietary Supplementation of Acetate and L-Tryptophan Conjugated Bypass Amino Acid on Productivity of Pre- and Post-Partum Dairy Cows and Their Offspring
Authors: Jo Jang-Hoon , Lee Jae-Sung , Ghassemi Nejad Jalil , Kim Won-Seob , Moon Jun-Ok , Lee Hong-Gu
Published: June 2021

In this study, we investigated the effect of dietary supplementation with acetate and L-tryptophan-conjugated bypass amino acid (ACT) during late pregnancy on the production performance of cows pre- and postpartum and their offspring. Eight multiparous Holstein cows (calving date ±15 d, 2nd parity; n = 4) were supplied with diets without ACT supplementation (Control) or with 15 g/day ACT supplementation (ACT). The results showed that ACT improved the feed intake (FI) in dry cows. No differences in blood hematological parameters were found between the two groups of prepartum cows. The serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase activity increased and the triglyceride concentration decreased in the ACT-treated group compared to the control group. In the postpartum cows, milk compositions were not affected by ACT supplementation. Saturated fatty acid (SFA) content in the colostrum was significantly lower in the ACT-treated group than in the control group. Serum glucose (GLC) level was significantly higher in the ACT-treated group than in the control group. Monocyte and GLC levels were lower in calves of groups where their dams had received ACT. Overall, we found higher FI in the dry cows, lower colostrum SFA levels, and heavier calf birth weight (5.5 kg) when the dams were supplemented with ACT, suggesting a positive nutrient compensation by ACT supplementation to dry cows.
Effects of Dietary Polyphenols from Olive Mill Waste Waters on Inflammatory and Apoptotic Effectors in Rabbit Ovary
Authors: Maranesi Margherita , Dall’Aglio Cecilia , Acuti Gabriele , Cappelli Katia , Trabalza Marinucci Massimo , Galarini Roberta , Suvieri Chiara , Zerani Massimo
Published: June 2021

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of dietary polyphenols on the expression of the effectors involved in inflammation and apoptosis in rabbit ovary. New Zealand White female rabbits were fed a basal control diet (CTR), or the same diet supplemented with a polyphenolic concentrate (POL, 282.4 mg/kg) obtained from olive mill waste waters. The follicle counts and the relative mRNA (RT-qPCR) and protein (immunohistochemistry) expression of the effectors involved in inflammation (cyclooxygenase-2; interleukin-1beta; tumor necrosis factor-alpha, TNFA) and apoptosis (BCL2-associated X protein, BAX), detected in the ovaries of both groups, were examined. The POL diet increased the primary and total follicles number. Cyclooxygenase-2 gene expression was higher (p < 0.05) in the POL group than in the CTR group, whereas BAX was lower (p < 0.05) in POL than CTR. Immunohistochemistry revealed the presence of all the proteins examined, with weaker (p < 0.05) COX2 and BAX signals in POL. No differences between the CTR and POL groups were observed for IL1B and TNFA gene and protein expression. These preliminary findings show that dietary polyphenols modulate inflammatory and apoptotic activities in rabbit ovary, regulating cyclooxygenase-2 and BAX expression, thus suggesting a functional involvement of these dietary compounds in mammalian reproduction.
Pharmacological Potentiality of Bioactive Flavonoid against Ketamine Induced Cell Death of PC 12 Cell Lines: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Venkataramaiah Chintha , Priya Bandila Lakshmi , Payani Sholapuri , Pradeepkiran Jangampalli Adi
Published: June 2021

During the past few years, there has been exponential growth in the field of ethnopharmacology in the treatment of different human ailments, including neurological disorders. In our previous study, we isolated, characterized, and reported a novel bioactive compound with therapeutic efficacy in vivo, which was used in the current study. This study was designed to investigate the pharmacological effect and therapeutic mechanism of the natural plant compound 3-(3,4-dimethoxy phenyl)-1-(4-methoxy phenyl)prop-2-en-1-one against ketamine-induced toxicity in PC 12 cell lines. Cell death was induced in PC 12 cell lines by incubating with ketamine, and the protection offered by the compound at different concentrations was studied during pretreatment. The therapeutic efficacy was screened through MTT assay, LDH assay, DCF-DA assay, clonogenic assay, RT-PCR, and densitometric analysis. The bioactive compound caused a significant elevation in cell viability up to approximately 80%, down-regulation of cell damage, reduction in free radical damage caused by intracellular reactive oxygen species, and up-regulation of cell survival ability, which was dysregulated during ketamine induction. In addition, RT-PCR analysis of DOPA-related genes suggests that the compound exerted significant inhibition in the expression of these genes, which were overexpressed during ketamine induction. The current findings provide new insight into the neuroprotective mediation of bioactive factors as a prospective therapy for neurological disorders.
Performance Characterization of a New Model for a Cyclone Separator of Particles Using Computational Fluid Dynamics
Authors: Zabala-Quintero Camilo , Ramirez-Pastran Jesus , Torres Maria Josefina
Published: June 2021

In the present study, through Computational Fluid Dynamics techniques, the performance characterization of a new Stairmand-type separator cyclone was carried out using the commercial software ANSYS Fluent. Four models for the geometrical cyclone separator were built, namely model A as per the dimensions reported in the literature and models B, C, and D by applying square and circular shape cavities as a passive flow control technique on the surface of its cylindrical section. The Navier-Stokes equations with the RSM turbulence model were formulated to solve the continuous phase of the cyclone separator and, the Lagrangian approach was adopted to track the solid particles with one way-coupling. The proposed model’s separation efficiency and pressure drop were compared against those recorded in the previous studies reported in the literature. Model D was the cyclone separator that stood out as the most valuable by demonstrating a separation efficiency and pressure drop decrement of 0.42% and 6.01%, respectively.
Non-Thermal Atmospheric Pressure Argon-Sourced Plasma Flux Promotes Wound Healing of Burn Wounds and Burn Wounds with Infection in Mice through the Anti-Inflammatory Macrophages
Authors: Dang Cong Phi , Weawseetong Sirapong , Charoensappakit Awirut , Sae-Khow Kritsanawan , Thong-Aram Decho , Leelahavanichkul Asada
Published: June 2021

Plasma medicine is the utilization of gas ionization that might be beneficial for the treatment of burn wounds, a healthcare problem with a significant mortality rate. Due to a lack of information on the impact of plasma flux in immune cells and a high prevalence of bacterial infection in burn wounds, non-thermal argon-based plasma flux was tested on macrophages (RAW246.7) and in mouse models of burn wounds with or without Staphylococcus aureus infection. Accordingly, plasma flux enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS), using dihydroethidium assay, and decreased abundance of NF-κB-p65 (Western blot analysis) in non-stimulating macrophages. In parallel, plasma flux upregulated IL-10 gene expression (an anti-inflammatory cytokine) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory macrophages, while downregulating the pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and IL-6). Additionally, plasma flux improved the migratory function of fibroblasts (L929) (fibroblast scratch assay) but not fibroblast proliferation. Moreover, once daily plasma flux administration for 7 days promoted the healing process in burn wounds with or without infection (wound area and wound rank score). Additionally, plasma flux reduced tissue cytokines (TNF-α and IL-6) in burn wounds with infection and promoted collagen in burn wounds without infection. In conclusion, plasma flux induced anti-inflammatory macrophages and promoted the burn-wound healing process partly through the decrease in macrophage NF-κB. Hence, plasma flux treatment should be tested in patients with burn wounds.
Accuracy Analysis of the Measurement of Centre of Gravity and Moment of Inertia with a Swing
Authors: Gabl Roman , Davey Thomas , Nixon Edd , Ingram David M.
Published: June 2021

Floating devices under wave and current loads are typically designed based on numerical methods followed by a validation with experimental investigations. This allows an independent check due to the comparison of two different modelling approaches based on different assumptions. At an early stage of the project, numerical simulations are based on theoretical (ideal) values of the centre of gravity (CG) and moment of inertia (MI). The building process of a scaled model results very often in a requested simplification of certain parts, which can influence the CG and also the MI of the scaled model. Knowing those discrepancies allows us to improve the comparability of both approaches but the measurement of those values is connected with either a higher uncertainty or a high level of effort. A significant improvement of such measurements can be reached by the deployment of a specific experimental set-up. This paper presents the classification of the newly designed swing with a high accuracy inertial inclinometer, which was verified by the marker-based motion capturing system. The achieved experiences are useful for the future use of the set-up as well as similar investigations. The comparison with the theoretical values for the swing as well as an example model showed very good agreements and a high accuracy of few millimetres for the CG and an error smaller 1% for MI.
A Systemic Approach to Investigate the Gaps between Distribution System Operators Need and Technology Developers’ Perception—A Case Study of an Intelligent Low-Voltage Grid Management System with Storage
Authors: Belay Alemu Moges , Puranik Sanket , Díaz-González Francisco , Tuiskula Heidi
Published: June 2021

The purpose of the paper is to introduce a new bi-directional approach to assess the gap between the customer needs and technology developers’ perception on the value propositions of innovations which includes storages. The paper used two methods; the first comprehensive sense and respond analysis investigated technology developers’ perceptions using the value propositions defined under the EU-funded H2020 RESOLVD project. The second method focused on customers and collected a survey which covered challenges, value propositions and preparedness to adopt new technology. The H2020 RESOLVD project has developed an intelligent low-voltage grid management system with storage. The results from the sense and respond analysis showed that most of the value propositions aligned with the responses from the broader survey which are needed within five years (e.g., improved power quality of grid, fault detection, reduced technical loss). However, the cybersecurity perception differed between developers and distribution system operators (DSOs). The customer survey highlighted that certain value propositions of technological solutions are needed more urgently than others, and therefore, technology developers should prioritize these in further developments. Regarding the use of flexibility to manage the LV grid, unclear regulations were expressed as a key barrier, thereby affecting business feasibility around battery storage.
Identification of Fungal Community Associated with Deterioration of Optical Observation Instruments of Museums in Northern Vietnam
Authors: Ngo Cao Cuong , Nguyen Quang Huy , Nguyen Thu Hoai , Quach Ngoc Tung , Dudhagara Pravin , Vu Thi Hanh Nguyen , Le Thi Thanh Xuan , Le Thi Thu Hang , Do Thi Thu Hong , Nguyen Van Duc , Nguyen Nam Trung , Phi Quyet-Tien
Published: June 2021

Fungi are the most harmful microorganisms responsible for the deterioration of nonmetallic materials such as glass, polymers, and composites. To date, biological aspects of glass deterioration have been poorly investigated. The present study aimed to evaluate the diversity of the fungal community colonizing eyepieces of binoculars collected from museums of the northern provinces of Vietnam and the biodeterioration effects on accurate glass reproductions. A total of 40 isolates belonging to 14 genera were identified based on internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequencing, morphological features, and maximum likelihood analysis. The most abundant fungal genera included Aspergillus (43.8%) and Penicillium (31.3%). Among those detected, Byssochlamys, Curvularia, Phomopsis, Coprinellus, Perenniporia, Talaromyces, Pithomyces, Neopestalotiopsis, Trichoderma, Pleospora, and Humicola were found for the first time. Of the 40 strains tested, 8 strains showed great organic acid production, and the extent of mycelium covered from 33.6 to 46.24%. Specifically, the highest extracellular polymeric substance production was observed in Byssochlamys spectabilis BXMA1-2 (14.96 g/L), Aspergillus niger BXMA5-2 (12.17 g/L), and Aspergillus ochraceopetaliformis BMLC1-2 (9.89 g/L). Glass biodeterioration experiments revealed that the light transmission through the fungal-treated glasses was decreased by 30–42.2% as compared to the nontreated glass. In addition, the main alterations resulted from hyphal fingerprints and spots, leading to apparent damage and biocorrosion.
Protein-Engineered Polymers Functionalized with Antimicrobial Peptides for the Development of Active Surfaces
Authors: Pereira Ana Margarida , Gomes Diana , da Costa André , Dias Simoni Campos , Casal Margarida , Machado Raul
Published: June 2021

Antibacterial resistance is a major worldwide threat due to the increasing number of infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria with medical devices being a major source of these infections. This suggests the need for new antimicrobial biomaterial designs able to withstand the increasing pressure of antimicrobial resistance. Recombinant protein polymers (rPPs) are an emerging class of nature-inspired biopolymers with unique chemical, physical and biological properties. These polymers can be functionalized with antimicrobial molecules utilizing recombinant DNA technology and then produced in microbial cell factories. In this work, we report the functionalization of rPBPs based on elastin and silk-elastin with different antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). These polymers were produced in Escherichia coli, successfully purified by employing non-chromatographic processes, and used for the production of free-standing films. The antimicrobial activity of the materials was evaluated against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, and results showed that the polymers demonstrated antimicrobial activity, pointing out the potential of these biopolymers for the development of new advanced antimicrobial materials.
Strain Induced Topological Insulator Phase in CsPbBrxI3−x (x = 0, 1, 2, and 3) Perovskite: A Theoretical Study
Authors: Tung Jen-Chuan , Hsieh Yu-Hsuan , Liu Po-Liang
Published: June 2021

First-principles density functional theory was used to determine the surface band structures of CsPbBrxI3−x (x = 0, 1, 2, and 3) perovskites. The equilibrium lattice constants of CsPbBrxI3−x were obtained from the minimum of the total energy as a function of the iodine concentration. We discovered that the band gaps of CsPbBrxI3−x decreased monotonically under pressure. The phase change from a normal insulator to a topological insulator was found at approximately 2–4 GPa. The Pbp- and Brs-orbitals inverted at the R symmetric point with and without spin–orbit coupling. Nontrivial Z2 topological numbers were obtained, and the surface conduction bands were demonstrated theoretically using a 1 × 1 × 10 supercell. We ascertained that CsPbBr2I has the largest electric polarization 0.025 C/m2 under a compression strain of 10%. We also observed that in the normal insulation phase, the band gap increases with a small displacement of the central Pb atom in the z-direction, but in the topological insulator phase, the band gap decreases with the movement of the Pb atom in the z-direction. Additionally, in the supercell structure, CsPbBrxI3−x is a ferroelectric topological insulator because the Pb atom leaves its own equilibrium position.
Unmanned Aircraft Systems Risk Assessment Based on SORA for First Responders and Disaster Management
Authors: Janik Paweł , Zawistowski Maciej , Fellner Radosław , Zawistowski Grzegorz
Published: June 2021

Worldwide, there is a significant increase in the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) by emergency services. They offer a lot of possibilities during rescue operations. Such a wide application for various purposes and environments causes many threats related to their use. To minimize the risks associated with conducting air operations with UAVs, the application of the SORA (Specific Operations Risk Assessment) methodology will be important. Due to its level of detail, it is a methodology adapted to civilian use. In this article, the authors’ team will try to develop guidelines and directions for adapting SORA to the requirements of the operational work of emergency services. Thus, the following article aims to present the most important risks related to conducting operations with the use of UAVs by first responders (FRs), and to show the sample risk analysis performed for this type of operation on the example of the ASSISTANCE project. The paper describes, on the one hand, possibilities offered by UAVs in crisis or disaster management and step-by-step Specific Operations Risk Assessment (SORA), and on the other hand, presents possible threats, consequences and methods of their mitigation during FR missions.