bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The duration of intervals on the oral cancer care pathway and implications for survival: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Fernández-Martínez Nicolás Francisco , Petrova Dafina , Špacírová Zuzana , Barrios-Rodríguez Rocío , Pérez-Sayáns Mario , Martín-delosReyes Luis Miguel , Pérez-Gómez Beatriz , Rodríguez-Barranco Miguel , Sánchez María José
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Previous studies measuring intervals on the oral cancer care pathway have been heterogenous, showing mixed results with regard to patient outcomes. The aims of this research were (1) to calculate pooled meta-analytic estimates for the duration of the patient, diagnostic and treatment intervals in oral cancer, considering the income level of the country, and (2) to review the evidence on the relationship of these three intervals with tumor stage at diagnosis and survival.

Materials and methods

We conducted a systematic review with meta-analysis following PRISMA 2020 guidelines (pre-registered protocol CRD42020200752). Following the Aarhus statement, studies were eligible if they reported data on the length of the patient (first symptom to first presentation to a healthcare professional), diagnostic (first presentation to diagnosis), or treatment (diagnosis to start of treatment) intervals in adult patients diagnosed with primary oral cancer. The risk of bias was assessed with the Aarhus checklist.

Results

Twenty-eight studies reporting on 30,845 patients met the inclusion criteria. The pooled median duration of the patient interval was 47 days (95% CI = 31–73), k = 18, of the diagnosis interval 35 days (95% CI = 21–38), k = 11, and of the treatment interval 30 days (95% CI = 23–53), k = 19. In lower-income countries, the patient and treatment intervals were significantly longer, and longer patient intervals were related to later stage at diagnosis. In studies with a lower risk of bias from high-income countries, longer treatment intervals were associated with lower survival rates.

Conclusion

Interval duration on the oral cancer care pathway is influenced by the socio-economic context and may have implications for patient outcomes.
Effective playing time affects technical-tactical and physical parameters in football
Authors: Tojo Óscar , Spyrou Konstantinos , Teixeira João , Pereira Paulo , Brito João
Published: August 2023

Effective playing time has been debated as a topic of major concern in football. Thus, the current experimental study aimed to investigate the effects of effective playing time on technical-tactical and physical match parameters in football. One hundred and seventy-nine male highly trained football players (aged 27.9 ± 5.1 years) from twelve teams performed two different match-play conditions: 45 min of match-play without stopping the chronometer (T45), and 30 min of match-play by stopping the chronometer every time the ball was out-of-play (T30). T30 presented a significantly higher total time (49:30 vs. 45:00 min; p = <.001; ES = 0.76), effective playing time (28:70 vs. 26:80 min; p = <.001; ES = 0.62), and stopped time (20:60 vs. 18:20 min; p = 0.003; ES = 0.38) compared to T45. Total ball possession (54.4% vs. 45.6%; p = 0.002) and 1/3 ball possession (55.3% vs. 44.7%; p = 0.018) was higher in T30 condition when compared to T45. Regarding match external load, total distance covered (4,899 vs. 4,481 m; p = <.001; ES = 0.71), moderate-speed running (607 vs. 557 m; p = 0.002; ES = 0.26) and high-speed running (202 vs. 170 m; p = <.001; ES = 0.33), high-speed activities (284 vs. 245 m; p = 0.003; ES = 0.24), accelerations (27 vs. 24; p = <.001; ES = 0.32), and decelerations (31 vs. 28; p = 0.005; ES = 0.26) were higher in T30 compared to T45. In conclusion, these findings suggest that higher effective playing time may affect technical-tactical and physical parameters during football games.
A Non-Arrhenius Model for Mechanism Consistency Checking in Accelerated Degradation Tests
Authors: You Jiaxin , Fu Rao , Liang Huimin , Lin Yigang
Published: August 2023

Degradation models are central to the lifetime prediction of electromagnetic relays. Coefficients of degradation models under accelerated degradation test (ADTs) can be obtained experimentally, and it is customary to map these coefficients back to those describing the actual degradation by the so-called Arrhenius model. However, for some components, such as springs in electromagnetic relays, the Arrhenius model is only appropriate over a certain ADT temperature range, which implies inaccurate mapping outside that range. On this point, an error function model (EFM) is proposed to overcome the shortcomings of the Arrhenius model. EFM is derived from the average vibration energy of the crystal, which is further related to temperature alongside some constants. The empirical part of the paper compares the proposed EFM to the Arrhenius model for the ADT of 28-V–2-A electromagnetic relays. The results show that EFM is superior in describing the temperature characteristics of coefficients in the degradation model. Through mechanism consistency checking, EFM is also shown to be a better option than the Arrhenius model. Moving beyond the case of electromagnetic relays, EFM is thought to have better applicability in the degradation models of capacitors and rubbers.
Genome-Wide Association Studies of Salt-Tolerance-Related Traits in Rice at the Seedling Stage Using InDel Markers Developed by the Genome Re-Sequencing of Japonica Rice Accessions
Authors: Yang Hui , Song Jiawei , Qiao Chengbin , Duan Kairong , Feng Peiyuan , Kong Weiru , Bai Tianliang , Zhu Chunyan , Ma Shuaiguo , Zhang Yinxia , Li Peifu , Tian Lei
Published: August 2023

Japonica-specific markers are crucial for the analysis of genetic diversity, population structure, evolutionary traits, and genome-wide association study (GWAS) of japonica germplasm accessions. This study developed 402 insertion–deletion (InDel) polymorphic markers based on the re-sequencing of four japonica rice landraces and three japonica rice cultivars. These InDel markers were uniformly distributed across 12 rice chromosomes with high polymorphism and good amplification specificity. The average density of InDel markers on each chromosome was 0.95 Mb per locus. On the basis of these InDel markers, genetic diversity analyses and GWASs for 12 salt-tolerance-related traits were performed using 182 japonica rice accessions. In total, 1204 allelic variants were detected, with an average of 3.00 alleles and 2.10 effective alleles per locus. Based on population structure analysis, 182 japonica rice accessions were divided into four subgroups. The GWAS analyses revealed a total of 14 salt-tolerance-related InDels, which were located on chromosomes 1–5, 9, 10, and 12. Twenty-eight allelic loci were identified, explaining 6.83% to 11.22% of the phenotypic variance. Haplotype analysis detected six InDel markers associated with salt-tolerance-related traits that were significantly different (p < 0.05) or highly significantly different (p < 0.01) among different haplotypes. These markers can be utilized for the molecular identification of salt-tolerant rice germplasm accessions.
Effective Laser Fly Control with Modulated UV-A Light Trapping for Mushroom Fungus Gnats (Diptera: Sciaridae)
Authors: Nair Sumesh , Hu Yvonne Yuling , Su Ching-Chieh , Chien Ming-Jeh , Chen Shean-Jen
Published: August 2023

Fungus gnats (Sciaridae) are one of the most devastating pests on mushroom farms. Generally, they are controlled using relatively inefficient physical means, like sticky or pheromone traps, or with chemical pesticides. Here, we have proposed an integrated fungus gnat control system combining a UV-A LED source at 365 nm and a high-power laser diode at 445 nm. The 365 nm UV-A LED serves a light trap, since previous studies have concluded that fungus gnats show maximum attraction in the range of 365–390 nm. The UV-A LED is also modulated at different frequencies, and the response of the gnats corresponding to these different frequencies was observed. We utilized an Arduino Uno microcontroller to run the integrated device, and a BASLER USB camera was used to capture the images. Our experiments indicated that a frequency of 40 Hz is the optimal choice for attracting the gnats most rapidly. Within 20 s of exposure, the UV-A LED operated at 40 Hz was found to trap approximately 80% of the gnats. In a restricted trapping zone measuring 2.5 × 2.5 × 3 cm3, our integrated module, which includes a 40 Hz modulated UV-A LED and a laser, resulted in a survival rate of only 50% for the total number of gnats. This outcome was accomplished through periodic 200 ms long exposures, amounting to a total duration of 2 min for a group of 100 gnats.
Diversity and Pathogenicity of Botryosphaeriaceae and Phytophthora Species Associated with Emerging Olive Diseases in Italy
Authors: Linaldeddu Benedetto T. , Rossetto Giovanni , Maddau Lucia , Vatrano Thomas , Bregant Carlo
Published: August 2023

Extensive collar rot, sunken and bleeding cankers, shoot blight, and fruit rot symptoms on olive trees have recently been observed in several orchards in Italy. Since there is little information about the etiology of these diseases and given the high economic relevance of this iconic crop, a study was conducted from autumn 2017 to summer 2022, in four Italian regions, to define the occurrence, distribution and impact of the main pathogens involved. A total of 1064 symptomatic olive samples were collected and processed. Based on colony appearance, micromorphological analysis and DNA sequence data, thirty-eight species, including eighteen Botryosphaeriaceae species belonging to five genera and fifteen Phytophthora species, were isolated and identified, thirteen of which, Diplodia africana, D. fraxini, D. subglobosa, Dothiorella omnivora, Do. sarmentorum, Do. sempervirentis, Sardiniella urbana (Botryosphaeriaceae), Phytophthora cactorum, P. cinnamomi, P. citricola, P. crassamura, P. niederhauserii and P. pseudocryptogea, are reported here for the first time in olive trees. Pathogenicity tests performed on unripe drupes and on potted olive seedlings completed Koch postulates and highlighted that several species of Botryosphaeriaceae and Phytophthora represent a growing threat to olive trees.
Effect of Dietary Calcium Propionate Inclusion Period on the Growth Performance, Carcass Characteristics, and Meat Quality of Feedlot Ram Lambs
Authors: Carrillo-Muro Octavio , Rivera-Villegas Alejandro , Hernandez-Briano Pedro , Lopez-Carlos Marco Antonio , Castro-Perez Beatriz Isabel
Published: August 2023

The objective was to determine the effect of calcium propionate (CaPr) inclusion in the diet, at different periods on the growth performance, carcass characteristics, and meat quality of finishing lambs. Thirty-six Dorper × Katahdin crossbred male lambs (39.1 ± 0.44 kg BW) were housed in individual pens during a 42 d feeding period and assigned to four treatments (n = 9) consisting of CaPr administered at a dose of 10 g/lamb/d for 0 (control), 14, 28, or 42 d before slaughter. Final BW (FBW), average daily gain (ADG), dry matter intake (DMI), and ADG:DMI ratio increased quadratically (p < 0.05) by CaPr supplementation, being optimal at an estimated inclusion period of 25 d for FBW and ADG, 15 d for DMI, and 28 d for ADG:DMI ratio. Hot carcass weight (HCW), cold carcass weight (CCW), and dressing were quadratically improved (p < 0.05) at an estimated inclusion period of 24 d for HCW and CCW, and 20 d for dressing. The increased inclusion period (42 d) augmented fat thickness (linear effect, p < 0.05). At 28 d of CaPr supplementation, maximal response (quadratic effect, p < 0.05) was estimated in the empty body weight at 28 d, forequarter at 26 d, and neck at 24 d, but a longer inclusion period (42 d) increases the weight of leg and rack and reduced the proportion of loin as a percentage of CCW (linear effect, p < 0.05). In conclusion, dietary CaPr can be included for a period of 24 to 28 d to improve growth performance and carcass weight, without affecting organ mass or meat quality.
Design and Experimentation of a Self-Propelled Picking Type White Radish Combine Harvester
Authors: Xiao Xiao , Xie Fangping , Zhao Zhouqiao , Liu Dawei , Wang Xiushan
Published: August 2023

In view of the low level of mechanized harvesting of white radish in China and other developing countries and the current situation of “no machine can be used” due to the expensive imported machines, a self-propelled white radish combine harvester was designed based on the material, growth characteristics, and agronomic pattern of white radish. This combines harvester can realize the functions of white radish tassel gathering, deep soil loosening, clamping and conveying, tassel cutting, and collecting. In this research, the overall design of the harvester is described, and the structural and working parameters and kinematic requirements of the tassel gathering device, clamping and conveying device, tassel cutting device, and vibrating deep loosening device are determined by mechanical and kinematic analysis. Innovatively, a range of values for the tassel gathering speed ratio of 1.7–4.2 is proposed for the operation of the tassel gathering device suitable for white radish harvesting. The prototype was bench tested with the loss rate, damaged rate, and impurity rate as performance evaluation indexes. The results show that under the pitch of 240 mm between the taper angle of the tassel-raising device, a speed of 80 rpm for the tassel gathering device gathering claw belt rotation, a speed of 120 rpm for the clamping and conveying pulley rotation, a vibration frequency of 2 Hz and an amplitude of 15 mm for the vibrating deep loosening device, and a forward speed of 0.5 m/s (tassel gathering speed ratio: 1.7). The loss rate was 2.75%, the damage rate was 4.99%, and the impurity rate was 1.64%. During the operation, the innovatively designed white radish leaf gathering device can better fulfill the function of tassel gathering, and the systems worked well together, meeting the requirements of mechanized combined harvesting of white radish, but the adaptability to complex working conditions in the field needs to be further strengthened. This research can provide a reference for the design and optimization of mechanized white radish harvesting equipment.
Aerodynamic Performance Optimization of Centrifugal Fan Blade for Air System of Self-Propelled Cotton-Picking Machine
Authors: Shao Wenping , Feng Jingan , Zhang Feng , Wang Shu , Li Yuhang , Lv Jiangfeng
Published: August 2023

To enhance the working efficiency and aerodynamic performance of the centrifugal fan in the air system of a cotton picker, a new type of centrifugal fan blade was designed by extracting the mid-arc section from the prototype blade and integrating an airfoil, which was transplanted and coupled to the mid-arc section. The design aimed to improve the airflow characteristics and performance of the centrifugal fan. By combining experimental data from centrifugal fans used in existing cotton-picker air systems and employing computational fluid dynamics (CFD) methods, the internal flow field structure of the centrifugal fan was simulated. This study focused on investigating the aerodynamic performance of the new centrifugal fan blade and its impact on improving the internal flow patterns within the centrifugal fan. The results of the flow field visualization analysis indicate that the new blade design exhibits excellent aerodynamic performance, improving the flow distribution within the centrifugal fan. It enhances the uniformity of the outlet airflow, reduces the occurrence of localized “jet-wake” phenomena at the impeller’s outlet, suppresses the generation and development of vortices in the flow channel, and reduces local energy losses within the impeller. These improvements contribute to an increase in the fan’s efficiency. Under rated operating conditions, the efficiency of the prototype fan was measured at 60.3%, while the optimized fan achieved an efficiency of 64.8%. This signifies a significant improvement in the efficiency of the centrifugal fan.
Design and Test of a Low-Loss Soybean Header Based on Synchronous Profiling
Authors: Nie Junshan , Luo Huizhong , Zhou Yang , Li Qiqiang , Qiu Qingyu , Zhang Lihua
Published: August 2023

A synchronous-profiling, low-position-cutting, flexible-reel-belt-conveyor, low-loss soybean header was designed to address the problems of a lack of soybean harvesting machines supporting soybean-corn strip intercropping, the few existing soybean headers, and the high loss rate of soybean headers. By establishing a dynamic model of the synchronous-profiling cutting device, the key structure and operation parameters that affect the performance of synchronous profiling were determined, while the key parameters of the flexible-reel-belt conveyor device were determined by theoretical analysis. Based on ADAMS rigid-flexible coupling, simulation analysis was conducted on the working process of the synchronous-profiling cutting device, verifying that the profiling cutting device can effectively control the height of the cutter off the ground with undulating ground and that the cutting device can accurately and quickly respond to ground excitation, meeting the requirements of synchronous-profiling, low-position cutting. Field tests showed that the loss rate and stubble height of the soybean headers are 1.34% and 70.36 mm, respectively, which are 55% and 22.7% lower than the existing reel-type rigid soybean headers, meeting the actual production requirements. This study can provide a reference for the structural design of soybean harvesting headers and the reduction of header losses.
Assessment of Sowing Density Impact on Water Front Advancement and Infiltration in Furrow Irrigation
Authors: Slatni Adel , Yacoubi Samir , Hermassi Taoufik , Latrech Basma , Zayani Khemaies
Published: August 2023

This research aims to evaluate the impact of durum-wheat sowing density on wetting front advancement and water infiltration rate along the furrow length. In addition, durum wheat yield and furrow irrigation performance under the different sowing densities were assessed. For that purpose, a field experiment was conducted under semi-arid conditions in Tunisia using four durum-wheat sowing densities: SD1 (250 seeds m−2), SD2 (350 seeds m−2), SD3 (450 seeds m−2) and SD0 (bare soil). The results reveal that water front advancement tends to be inversely proportional to sowing density. In fact, under the SD3 treatment, both irrigation duration and applied water volume increased about twofold compared to those recorded under SD0, resulting in an increasing soil infiltration rate. Furthermore, the two-point method performed well in estimating water front advancement, with an R2 value close to 1. Regarding durum wheat yield, values varied between 3.5 and 4.9 t ha−1 with the highest value attributed to the SD3 treatment. Meanwhile, higher irrigation water productivity was recorded under SD1. Considering irrigation performance indicators, the results indicate that distribution uniformity (DU) increases with increasing sowing density. Moreover, the lowest application efficiency values (75%) were recorded under the SD0 and SD3 treatments as compared to 82% for SD2 and 80% for SD1.
The Use of Faba Bean Cover Crop to Enhance the Sustainability and Resiliency of No-Till Corn Silage Production and Soil Characteristics
Authors: Ghorbi Samaneh , Ebadi Ali , Parmoon Ghasem , Siller Arthur , Hashemi Masoud
Published: August 2023

Sustainable corn production requires a dramatic shift toward natural soil fertility rather than relying solely on synthetic fertilizers. Cover crops play an important role in improving the productivity of subsequent row crops through improving soil properties. The main goal of this study was to investigate if increasing cover crop biomass through applying a higher density can enhance soil characteristics in the short term and contribute more nitrogen to succeeding corn silage. In a two-year field study (2018–2019), the influence of faba bean (Vicia faba L.) as a cover crop on soil characteristics and corn silage (Zea mays L.) production was evaluated. Treatments consisted of five levels of faba bean density (0, 25, 35, 40, and 80 plants m−2) and four application rates of urea-based nitrogen fertilizer (0, 100, 200, and 300 kg ha−1) in a no-till system. The measured soil characteristics were not significantly affected through increasing cover crop density to 80 plants m−2. The faba bean roots comprised 33% of total biomass in densities ranging from 25–40 plants m−2. The highest total N yield (root + shoot) was 133 kg N ha−1, obtained from 40 faba bean plants m−2. The faba bean root decomposed faster than the shoot, and the addition of N to the corn accelerated 50% N release from the roots but had no significant effect on shoot decomposition. Corn planted after 40 plants m−2 faba bean yielded 28% more than the corn with no faba bean. Corn yielded less in no-cover-crop fields even when it received the highest synthetic N rate (300 kg N ha−1), indicating the value of including faba bean in rotation with corn.
Drought Tolerance Evaluation and Verification of Fifty Pakchoi (Brassica rapa ssp. chinensis) Varieties under Water Deficit Condition
Authors: Li Jingrui , Abbas Kumail , Wang Weihong , Gong Binbin , Wang Lin , Hou Shenglin , Xia Hui , Wu Xiaolei , Chen Lida , Gao Hongbo
Published: August 2023

Reduced available water resources have become the main limiting factor for the production of leafy vegetable, such as pakchoi, which can be effectively addressed by growing water-efficient varieties. Therefore, it is particularly important for evaluation and verification of drought tolerant varieties. In this study, 50 different varieties of pakchoi were detected for their morphological and physiological indicators under both normal-irrigated and water-deficiency environments. Based on systematic analysis of these evaluation indicators using different evaluation methods, the significant indicators were identified and the prediction model was established followed by validation of different drought tolerant of pakchoi varieties. The results showed that considerable differences were observed in all the indicators detected under conditions of water deprivation compared with normal irrigation. Frequency distribution revealed that the indictors sensitivity with significant changes to water-deficient conditions was ordered as follows: aboveground fresh and dry weight, followed by belowground fresh and dry weight, root volume, root length, root activity, and soluble sugar. Correlation analysis showed that each indicator was significantly or extremely significantly associated with other indices, indicating that there is a certain degree of association between the indices. Principal component analysis (PCA) turned 16 indicators into four independent components, with a cumulative contribution ratio of 80.147%. According to the results of drought tolerance comprehensive evaluation value (D-value) analysis and cluster analysis, 50 varieties were ranked in relation to drought tolerance and classified into five categories, among them Jinhui, Qingguan, Dongyue, Xiazhijiao, and Hanszifei, which were classified as highly drought-tolerant cultivars. Moreover, the stepwise regression model was established and demonstrated that soluble sugar, average root diameter, belowground fresh weight, root volume, and leaf number were selected as key indicators which can be used for screening and identifying drought-pakchoi varieties. Furthermore, the tolerance capacity of pakchoi varieties was further validated using one representative variety selected from five groups and treated with water-deficit stress. It was demonstrated that the established model was verified consistent with drought tolerance of pakchoi varieties, and tolerance capacity was closely related to increasing epidermal stomatal density, maintaining high photosynthesis, and increasing antioxidant enzyme activity to reduce damage (ROS). The results proposed the key drought tolerance indicators and evaluation methods, which provide the basis for the screening of leaf-vegetable varieties with different drought-tolerances, as well the identified varieties could be used for effective water-saving production.
Investigation of Gene Networks in Three Components of Immune System Provides Novel Insights into Immune Response Mechanisms against Edwardsiella tarda Infection in Paralichthys olivaceus
Authors: Liu Xiumei , Bao Xiaokai , Li Zan , Zhang Quanqi
Published: August 2023

As a quintessential marine teleost, Paralichthys olivaceus demonstrates vulnerability to a range of pathogens. Long-term infection with Edwardsiella tarda significantly inhibits fish growth and even induces death. Gills, blood, and kidneys, pivotal components of the immune system in teleosts, elicit vital regulatory roles in immune response processes including immune cell differentiation, diseased cell clearance, and other immunity-related mechanisms. This study entailed infecting P. olivaceus with E. tarda for 48 h and examining transcriptome data from the three components at 0, 8, and 48 h post-infection employing weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) and protein–protein interaction (PPI) network analysis. Network analyses revealed a series of immune response processes after infection and identified multiple key modules and key, core, and hub genes including xpo1, src, tlr13, stat1, and mefv. By innovatively amalgamating WGCNA and PPI network methodologies, our investigation facilitated an in-depth examination of immune response mechanisms within three significant P. olivaceus components post-E. tarda infection. Our results provided valuable genetic resources for understanding immunity in P. olivaceus immune-related components and assisted us in further exploring the molecular mechanisms of E. tarda infection in teleosts.
A Novel Insight into the Identification of Potential SNP Markers for the Genomic Characterization of Buffalo Breeds in Pakistan
Authors: Anas Muhammad , Farooq Muhammad , Asif Muhammad , Ali Waqas Rafique , Mansoor Shahid
Published: August 2023

Domestic buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis), known as water buffaloes, play a key role as versatile multipurpose agricultural animals in the Asiatic region. Pakistan, with the second-largest buffalo population in the world, holds a rich domestication history of buffaloes. The overall trends in buffalo production demand the genomic characterization of Pakistani buffalo breeds. To this end, the resequencing data of Pakistani breeds, along with buffalo breeds from 13 other countries, were retrieved from our previous study. This dataset, which contained 34,671,886 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), was analyzed through a pipeline that was developed to compare possible allele differences among breeds at each SNP position. In contrast, other available tools only check for positional SNP differences for breed-specific markers. In total, 1918, 1549, 404, and 341 breed-specific markers were identified to characterize the Nili, Nili–Ravi, Azakheli, and Kundi breeds of Pakistani buffalo, respectively. Sufficient evidence in the form of phenotypic data, principal component analysis, admixture analysis, and linkage analysis showed that the Nili breed has maintained its distinct breed status despite sharing a close evolutionary relationship with the Nili–Ravi breed of buffalo. In this era of genome science, the conservation of these breeds and the further validation of the given selection markers in larger populations is a pressing need.
Vitamin D Alleviates Cadmium-Induced Inhibition of Chicken Bone Marrow Stromal Cells’ Osteogenic Differentiation In Vitro
Authors: Tong Xishuai , Zhang Ying , Zhao Yutian , Li Yawen , Li Tan , Zou Hui , Yuan Yan , Bian Jianchun , Liu Zongping , Gu Jianhong
Published: August 2023

Vitamin D is a lipid soluble vitamin that is mostly used to treat bone metabolism-related diseases. In this study, the effect of Cd toxicity in vitro on osteogenic differentiation derived from BMSCs and the alleviating effect of lα, 25-(OH)2D3 were investigated. Cell index in real time was monitored using a Real-time cell analyzer (RTCA) system. The activity of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and the calcified nodules and the distribution of Runx2 protein were detected using ALP staining, alizarin red staining, and immunofluorescence, respectively. Furthermore, the mitochondrial membrane potential and the apoptotic rate of BMSCs, the mRNA levels of RUNX2 and type Ⅰ collagen alpha2 (COL1A2) genes, and the protein expression of Col1 and Runx2 were detected using flow cytometry, qRT-PCR and western blot, respectively. The proliferation of BMSCs and osteogenic differentiation were enhanced after treatment with different concentrations of lα, 25-(OH)2D3 compared with the control group. However, 5 μmol/L Cd inhibited the proliferation of BMSCs. In addition, 10 nmol/L lα,25-(OH)2D3 attenuated the toxicity and the apoptosis of BMSCs treated by Cd, and also promoted the osteogenic differentiation including the activity of ALP, and the protein expression of Col1 and Runx2. lα, 25-(OH)2D3 can alleviate cadmium-induced osteogenic toxicity in White Leghorn chickens in vitro.
Effect of Combining the Ionophore Monensin with Natural Antimicrobials Supplemented in the Last Phase of Finishing of Lambs: Growth Performance, Dietary Energetics, and Carcass Characteristics
Authors: Estrada-Angulo Alfredo , Escobedo-Gallegos Lucía de G. , Arteaga-Wences Yesica J. , Ramos-Méndez Jorge L. , Quezada-Rubio Jesús A. , Vizcarra-Chávez Claudia A. , Valdés-García Yissel S. , Barreras Alberto , Zinn Richard A. , Plascencia Alejandro
Published: August 2023

With the aim of evaluating the effect of combining an antibiotic ionophore with plant extracts and probiotics on the productive efficiency (performance and carcass) during the last phase of lamb fattening, 24 Pelibuey × Katahdin male lambs (38.47 ± 3.92 kg, initial weight) were fed with a high-energy diet during for 56 days, and assigned, under a complete randomized block design experiment to one of the following supplement treatments: (1) 28 mg of monensin/kg diet DM supplemented alone (MON), (2) combination of MON plus 2 g/kg diet of a product contained Bacillus subtilis 2.2 × 108 CFU kg diet DM (MON + BS), (3) combination of MON + BS plus 300 mg essential oils/kg diet DM (MON + BS + EO), and (4) BS alone. At the end of the feeding trial (56-d), lambs were slaughtered and carcass variables were measured. Compared to the rest of the treatments, combining MON with BS improved dietary NE by 3.4% and the efficiency of utilization of dietary energy consumed. Inclusion of EO in the MON + BS combination resulted in a similar average daily weight gain (ADG) and feed efficiency (GF) when compared with MON + BS, but showed a lower dietary net energy (NE), hot carcass weight, and dressing percentage. Lambs receiving BS alone showed greater average ADG and dry matter intake (DMI) than lambs receiving MON + BS + EO, but similar feed GF and dietary NE. There were no treatment effects on tissue composition, whole cut, or visceral organ mass. It was concluded that combining probiotics with the ionophore monensin can improve the efficiency of dietary energy utilization in the last phase of finishing. Probiotics supplemented alone result in greater ADG without a difference in dietary energy efficiency when compared with MON alone. Inclusion of EO in the MON + BS combination did not show advantages; on the contrary, it reduced carcass weight and dressing percentage. It is necessary to further research the potential complementary effects of combining diverse sources of natural additives with synthetic antibiotics.
Fish Welfare in Public Aquariums and Zoological Collections
Authors: Smith Stephen A.
Published: August 2023

A wide variety of fish species have been displayed in public aquariums and zoological collections for over 150 years. Though the issue of pain perception in fish is still being debated, there is no disagreement that negative impacts on their welfare can significantly affect their health and wellbeing. A general description of the basic biological requirements for maintaining fish in captive environments is presented, but species-specific information and guidelines should be developed for the multitude of species being maintained. A combination of behavioral, performance, and physiological indicators can be used to assess the well-being of these animals. Ultimately, the goal for optimizing the welfare of fish should be to provide the best possible environment, husbandry, and social interactions to promote natural species-specific behaviors of the fish in captivity.
Effect of Bacillus subtilis and Oregano Oil on Performance, Gut Microbiome, and Intestinal Morphology in Pullets
Authors: Kim Hee-Jin , Kim Hyun-Soo , Yun Yeon-Seo , Kang Hwan-Ku
Published: August 2023

This study aimed to examine the effect of probiotics containing Bacillus subtilis and oregano essential oil on the growth performance, intestinal morphology, and cecal microbial composition in pullets aged 0–18 weeks. A total of 324 day-old Hy-Line Brown chicks were randomly assigned to three treatment groups, with six replicates per group and 18 birds per pen. The experimental treatments consisted of the following: a control group receiving a basal diet (Con), a group receiving a basal diet supplemented with 1 g/kg (3 × 108 cfu/kg) of Bacillus subtilis (BS), and a group receiving a basal diet supplemented with 0.3 g/kg of oregano essential oil (ORO). The groups supplemented with BS and ORO demonstrated significantly higher villus height/crypt depth ratios than the Con group. Microbial richness was significantly higher in groups supplemented with BS (p = 0.0317) and ORO (p = 0.00794) than in the Con group. These findings revealed a distinct separation between gut microbial communities of the Con group and those supplemented with ORO, based on unweighted and weighted UniFrac indices. Therefore, supplementation with Bacillus subtilis and oregano oil improved the composition of the microbiota, suggesting their positive effects on the gut health of pullets.
Anti-Müllerian Hormone Concentrations for Determining Resumption of Sertoli Cell Function following Removal of a 4.7 mg Deslorelin Implant in Tomcats
Authors: Ferré-Dolcet Lluis , Bordogna Matteo , Contiero Barbara , Fontaine Christelle , Bedin Silvia , Romagnoli Stefano
Published: August 2023

Background: Deslorelin implant use in cats is a medical alternative to surgical sterilization, and due to its prolonged efficacy, its use has shown growing interest in the veterinary community. In the case of breeding facilities, its removal is often requested for the early restoration of testicular function. As anti-Müllerian hormones (AMH) in males is dependent of testosterone secretion, its assay may determine the restoration of testicular steroid secretion. An average of 3 weeks has been already described for tomcats’ testicular function resumption after implant removal, but information about AMH concentrations in deslorelin-treated tomcats is lacking. Methods: Fourteen tomcats were treated for temporary suppression of fertility with a 4.7 mg deslorelin implant, which was surgically removed after 3, 6 or 9 months (n = 6, 4 and 4 tomcats, respectively). A general clinical and reproductive check with a gonadorelin stimulation test for testosterone determination was performed before deslorelin implant administration. After implant removal, tomcats’ testicles were ultrasonographically checked for volume determination every 1-2 weeks with observation of the glans penis (presence or absence of spikes) and blood collection to assay both testosterone and AMH concentrations. Results: AMH concentrations increased significantly during the deslorelin treatment from 20.95 ± 4.97 ng/mL to 82.41 ± 14.59 ng/mL (p < 0.05). Following implant removal, AMH concentrations progressively decreased to pre-treatment levels, with a value of 28.42 ± 7.98 ng/mL on the third week post-removal where testosterone secretion was again detected. Conclusions: Even if a big variability of AMH concentrations exists between male individuals, resumption of tomcats’ testicular function following a deslorelin treatment can be determined by AMH assay.
Encoding of Arousal and Physical Characteristics in Audible and Ultrasonic Vocalizations of Mongolian Gerbil Pups Testing Common Rules for Mammals
Authors: Silberstein Yara , Felmy Felix , Scheumann Marina
Published: August 2023

In mammals, common rules for the encoding of arousal and physical characteristics of the sender are suggested based on a similar vocal production apparatus. In this study, we want to investigate to what extent vocalizations of developing Mongolian gerbil pups fulfill these rules. We recorded vocalizations of 28 Mongolian gerbil pups in four developmental stages using a separation paradigm, suggested to induce different arousal levels. For low arousal, a pup was placed in an arena isolated from its siblings and parents; for high arousal, the pup was additionally stressed through the simulation of a predator. An unsupervised cluster analysis revealed three call types: ultrasonic (USV), audible vocalizations (ADV), and transitions between both (USV-ADV). The USV and USV-ADV rate showed an age-dependent decrease, contrasting an age-dependent increase for ADVs. Vocal correlates for the encoding of arousal were found for USVs and of physical characteristics for USVs and ADVs. However, the pattern of encoding these cues differed between call types and only partly confirmed the common rules suggested for mammals. Our results show that divergent encoding patterns do not only differ between species but also between call types within a species, indicating that coding rules can be shaped by socio-ecological factors or call type specific production mechanisms.
Toward Sustainability: An Overview of the Use of Green Hydrogen in the Agriculture and Livestock Sector
Authors: Maganza Alessandra , Gabetti Alice , Pastorino Paolo , Zanoli Anna , Sicuro Benedetto , Barcelò Damià , Cesarani Alberto , Dondo Alessandro , Prearo Marino , Esposito Giuseppe
Published: August 2023

The agro-livestock sector produces about one third of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Since more energy is needed to meet the growing demand for food and the industrial revolution in agriculture, renewable energy sources could improve access to energy resources and energy security, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and reduce GHG emissions. Hydrogen production is a promising energy technology, but its deployment in the global energy system is lagging. Here, we analyzed the theoretical and practical application of green hydrogen generated by electrolysis of water, powered by renewable energy sources, in the agro-livestock sector. Green hydrogen is at an early stage of development in most applications, and barriers to its large-scale deployment remain. Appropriate policies and financial incentives could make it a profitable technology for the future.
Carbapenem-Resistant Gram-Negative Bacilli Characterization in a Tertiary Care Center from El Bajio, Mexico
Authors: Nieto-Saucedo Jose Raul , López-Jacome Luis Esaú , Franco-Cendejas Rafael , Colín-Castro Claudia Adriana , Hernández-Duran Melissa , Rivera-Garay Luis Raúl , Zamarripa-Martinez Karina Senyase , Mosqueda-Gómez Juan Luis
Published: August 2023

Carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative bacilli (CR-GNB) are a major public health concern. We aimed to evaluate the prevalence of CR-GNB and the frequency of carbapenemase-encoding genes in a tertiary referral center from El Bajio, Mexico. A cross-sectional study was conducted between January and October 2022; Gram-negative bacilli (GNB) were screened for in vitro resistance to at least one carbapenem. CR-GNB were further analyzed for carbapenemase-production through phenotypical methods and by real-time PCR for the following genes: blaKPC, blaGES, blaNDM, blaVIM, blaIMP, and blaOXA-48. In total, 37 out of 508 GNB were carbapenem-resistant (7.3%, 95% CI 5.2–9.9). Non-fermenters had higher rates of carbapenem resistance than Enterobacterales (32.5% vs. 2.6%; OR 18.3, 95% CI 8.5–39, p < 0.0001), and Enterobacter cloacae showed higher carbapenem resistance than other Enterobacterales (27% vs. 1.4%; OR 25.9, 95% CI 6.9–95, p < 0.0001). Only 15 (40.5%) CR-GNB had a carbapenemase-encoding gene; Enterobacterales were more likely to have a carbapenemase-encoding gene than non-fermenters (63.6% vs. 30.8%, p = 0.08); blaNDM-1 and blaNDM-5 were the main genes found in Enterobacterales; and blaIMP-75 was the most common for Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The mcr-2 gene was harbored in one polymyxin-resistant E. cloacae. In our setting, NDM was the most common carbapenemase; however, less than half of the CR-GNB showed a carbapenemase-encoding gene.
A Mobile Solution for Enhancing Tourist Safety in Warm and Humid Destinations
Authors: Dinkoksung Sairoong , Pitakaso Rapeepan , Boonmee Chawis , Srichok Thanatkit , Khonjun Surajet , Jirasirilerd Ganokgarn , Songkaphet Ponglert , Nanthasamroeng Natthapong
Published: August 2023

This research introduces a mobile application specifically designed to enhance tourist safety in warm and humid destinations. The proposed solution integrates advanced functionalities, including a comprehensive warning system, health recommendations, and a life rescue system. The study showcases the exceptional effectiveness of the implemented system, consistently providing tourists with precise and timely weather and safety information. Notably, the system achieves an impressive average accuracy rate of 100%, coupled with an astonishingly rapid response time of just 0.001 s. Furthermore, the research explores the correlation between the System Usability Scale (SUS) score and tourist engagement and loyalty. The findings reveal a positive relationship between the SUS score and the level of tourist engagement and loyalty. The proposed mobile solution holds significant potential for enhancing the safety and comfort of tourists in hot and humid climates, thereby making a noteworthy contribution to the advancement of the tourism business in smart cities.
Study of Dynamic Inductance Gradient of Augmented Electromagnetic Rail Launcher Considering High-Speed Motion of Armature
Authors: Yan Rongge , An Kang , Yang Qingxin , Jiang Jinbo
Published: August 2023

The rail inductance gradient is an important parameter of the electromagnetic launcher. The calculation of its value is important for the design of the launcher structure and for predicting the motion behavior of the armature. The current research on the inductance gradient analysis method of the electromagnetic rail launcher mostly does not take into account the effects of launcher size and current diffusion. This method cannot describe its dynamic characteristics, and it results in a large error compared with the actual launch. Therefore, the paper first establishes an electromagnetic rail launcher armature motion model to obtain the rail velocity skin depth under a U-shaped armature. Second, an analytical method for calculating the inductance gradient based on the dynamic skin depth of the rail is obtained, which takes into account the launcher size and velocity skin effect. Finally, the experimental results verify the correctness and accuracy of the method to achieve an accurate prediction of armature speed.
Lightweight Facial Expression Recognition Based on Class-Rebalancing Fusion Cumulative Learning
Authors: Mou Xiangwei , Song Yongfu , Wang Rijun , Tang Yuanbin , Xin Yu
Published: August 2023

In the research of Facial Expression Recognition (FER), the inter-class of facial expression data is not evenly distributed, the features extracted by networks are insufficient, and the FER accuracy and speed are relatively low for practical applications. Therefore, a lightweight and efficient method based on class-rebalancing fusion cumulative learning for FER is proposed in our research. A dual-branch network (Regular feature learning and Rebalancing-Cumulative learning Network, RLR-CNet) is proposed, where the RLR-CNet uses the improvement in the lightweight ShuffleNet with two branches (feature learning and class-rebalancing) based on cumulative learning, which improves the efficiency of our model recognition. Then, to enhance the generalizability of our model and pursue better recognition efficiency in real scenes, a random masking method is improved to process datasets. Finally, in order to extract local detailed features and further improve FER efficiency, a shuffle attention module (SA) is embedded in the model. The results demonstrate that the recognition accuracy of our RLR-CNet is 71.14%, 98.04%, and 87.93% on FER2013, CK+, and RAF-DB, respectively. Compared with other FER methods, our method has great recognition accuracy, and the number of parameters is only 1.02 MB, which is 17.74% lower than that in the original ShuffleNet.
Influence of Cavitation and Shaft Deformation in the Analysis of Lubrication of the Stern Bearing
Authors: He Tao , Zhou Yingzhi , Liu Yong , Xia Yang
Published: August 2023

The cavitation phenomenon and shaft deformation have a significant impact on the tribological performance of the journal bearing. A mixed lubrication model is developed that takes into account surface roughness and asperity contact, as well as the effects of cavitation and deflection. The fluid–solid coupling effect in bearing deformation, asperity contact, and film pressure are investigated. The effect of boundary conditions on the lubrication regimes is discussed. The results of simulations with and without cavitation are compared under steady-state conditions. The results show that when cavitation is considered by the mixed lubrication model under a given load, the eccentricity is reduced, and the maximum oil film pressure is also reduced. The speed range of the bearing simulated with the mixed lubrication model increases after considering deflection deformation. The mixed lubrication model proposed in this paper is able to provide accurate results of pressure distribution and coefficient of friction and can be applied in the design and analysis of journal bearings.
Comfort Study of General Aviation Pilot Seats Based on Improved Particle Swam Algorithm (IPSO) and Support Vector Machine Regression (SVR)
Authors: Zhang Mengyang , Zhang Xuyinglong , Gao Shan , Zhu Yujie
Published: August 2023

Little work has been carried out to predict the comfort of aircraft seats, a component in close contact with the human body during travel. In order to more accurately predict the nonlinear and complex relationship between subjective and objective evaluations of comfort, this paper proposes a prediction method based on the Improved Particle Swarm Algorithm (IPSO) and optimized Support Vector Machine Regression (SVR). Focusing on the problems of the too-fast convergence and low accuracy of the traditional particle swarm algorithm (PSO), the improved particle swarm algorithm (IPSO) is obtained by linearly decreasing the dynamic adjustments of inertia weight ω, self-learning factor c1, and social factor c2; then, the penalty parameter C and kernel function parameter σ of SVR are optimized by the IPSO algorithm, and the comfort prediction of IPSO-SVR is established. The prediction accuracy of IPSO-SVR was 94.00%, the root mean square error RMSE was 0.37, the mean absolute value error MAE was 0.32, and the goodness of fit R2 was 0.92. The results show that the optimized IPSO-SVR prediction model can more accurately predict seat comfort under different angles and backrest tilt angles and can provide reference and research value for related industries. The results show that the optimized nonlinear prediction model of IPSO-SVR has higher accuracy, and its prediction method is feasible and generalizable, meaning it can provide a reliable basis for the prediction of seat comfort under different angles and backrest inclinations, as well as providing reference and research value for related industries.