bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Testing the mirror symmetry of Birkeland and ionospheric currents with respect to magnetic latitude, dipole tilt angle, and IMF By
Authors: Hatch S. M. , Laundal K. M. , Reistad J. P.
Published: September 2022

It is often assumed that on average, polar ionospheric electrodynamics in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres are mirror symmetric or antisymmetric with respect to the interplanetary magnetic field By component and the dipole tilt angle ψ. For example, one might assume that the average Birkeland current density j at magnetic latitude λ is equal to the current density at magnetic latitude −λ if the signs of By and ψ are reversed and all other parameters are equal: j(λ, By, ψ, … ) = j(−λ, −By, −ψ, … ). This is a convenient assumption for empirical models, since it effectively doubles the amount of information that a measurement made in one hemisphere contains. In this study we use the Average Magnetic field and Polar current System (AMPS) model to quantify to what extent the assumption holds for Birkeland and ionospheric currents. The AMPS model is an empirical model based on Swarm and CHAMP magnetic field measurements, with no constraints on hemispheric symmetries, and with differences in main magnetic field geometry as well as biases in data point distributions in magnetic coordinates accounted for. We show that when averaged over IMF clock angle orientation, the total ionospheric divergence-free current in each hemisphere largely satisfies the mirror symmetry assumption. The same is true for the total Birkeland current in each hemisphere except during local winter, during which the Northern Hemisphere tends to dominate. We show that this local winter asymmetry is consistent with the average winter hemispheric asymmetry in total precipitating electron current derived from Fast Auroral SnapshoT (FAST) satellite observations. We attribute this and other more subtle deviations from symmetry to differences in sunlight distribution in magnetic coordinates, as well as magnetic field strength and its influence on ionospheric conductivity. Important departures from mirror symmetry also arise for some IMF clock angle orientations, particularly those for which IMF Bz > 0, as suggested by other recent studies.
Sublingual misoprostol vs. oral misoprostol solution for induction of labor: A retrospective study
Authors: Amini Mahdi , Wide-Swensson Dag , Herbst Andreas
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Induction of labor (IOL) is one of the most common obstetrical procedures, with an increasing rate. The prostaglandin E1 analogue misoprostol is frequently used as a primary method of labor induction. The optimal dose and route of administration is yet to be ascertained.

Aim

To compare efficiacy and safety between a regimen of sublingually administered misoprostol and a regimen of orally administered misoprostol, with cesarean delivery as primary outcome.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted including women carrying a live, singleton fetus in a cephalic position with labor induced at >37 + 0 gestational weeks at Skåne University hospital, Lund, between January 1st 2013 to December 31st 2017. Data was obtained from computerized obstetrical charts.

Results

Totally 2,404 women were included; 974 induced with sublingual misoprostol and 1,430 with oral solution. In primiparous women the cesarean delivery rate was lower in primiparous women induced with oral compared to sublingual misoprostol (20.5% vs. 28.6%, p < 0.001), whereas in parous women the rates did not differ significantly 4.9% vs. 7.5%; NS). The increased risk of caesarean remained after controlling for potential confounding factors (adjusted odds ratio 1.49 (1.14–1.95). Women induced with sublingual misoprostol had a shorter time to vaginal delivery when compared to oral solution (primiparous median 16.7 h vs. 21.7 h; p < 0.001, parous median 9.9 h vs. 13.3 h; p = 0.01), and a higher rate of vaginal delivery within 24 h (primiparas 77.7% vs. 63.3%, p < 0.001, parous 93.2% vs. 84.2%; p = 0.01).

Conclusion

IOL with oral misoprostol solution was associated with a significantly higher vaginal delivery rate when compared to sublingual misoprostol, whereas sublingual misoprostol was associated with a significantly shorter time from induction to vaginal delivery. Oral administration is considered the most safe and efficient administration of misoprostol, although more studies are needed to find the optimal route and dosage of misoprostol for IOL.
Prediction for 2-year mortality of metastatic ovarian cancer patients based on surveillance, epidemiology, and end results database
Authors: Wang Yongxin , Shan Xue , Dong He , Li Man , Yue Ying
Published: September 2022

Aim

To establish prediction models for 2-year overall survival of ovarian cancer patients with metastasis.

Methods

In total, 4,929 participants from Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database were randomly divided into the training set (n = 3,451) and the testing set (n = 1,478). Univariate and multivariable regression were conducted in the training set to identify predictors for 2-year overall survival of metastatic ovarian cancer patients. The C-index was calculated for assessing the performance of the models. The nomogram for the model was plotted. The prediction value of the model was validated in the testing set. Subgroup analysis were performed concerning surgery and chemotherapy status of patients and the metastatic site of ovarian cancer in the testing set. The calibration curves were plotted and the decision curve analysis (DCA) were conducted.

Results

At the end of follow-up, 2,587 patients were survived and 2,342 patients were dead within 2 years. The 2-year survival rate was 52.5%. The prediction models were constructed based on predictors including age, radiation, surgery and chemotherapy, CA125, and bone, liver, and lung metastasis. The prediction model for 2-year overall survival of ovarian cancer patients with metastasis showed good predictive ability with the C-index of the model of 0.719 (95% CI: 0.706–0.731) in the training set and 0.718 (95% CI: 0.698–0.737) in the testing set. In terms of patients with bone metastasis, the C-index was 0.740 (95% CI: 0.652–0.828) for predicting the 2-year overall survival of ovarian cancer patients. The C-index was 0.836 (95% CI: 0.694–0.979) in patients with brain metastasis, 0.755 (95% CI: 0.721–0.788) in patients with liver metastasis and 0.725 (95% CI: 0.686–0.764) in those with lung metastasis for predicting the 2-year overall survival of ovarian cancer patients.

Conclusion

The models showed good predictive performance for 2-year overall survival of metastatic ovarian cancer patients.
Angiosome-directed endovascular intervention and infrapopliteal disease: Intraoperative evaluation of distal hemodynamic changes and foot blood volume of lower extremity
Authors: Wang Chaonan , Chen Junye , Lei Jinsong , Shao Jiang , Lai Zhichao , Li Kang , Cao Wenteng , Liu Xiaolong , Yuan Jinghui , Liu Bao
Published: September 2022

Objectives

To evaluate foot blood volume and hemodynamics and explore whether quantitative techniques can guide revascularization.

Materials and methods

A prospective single-center cohort study included thirty-three patients with infrapopliteal artery occlusion who underwent percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) between November 2016 and May 2020. The time-to-peak (TTP) from color-coded quantitative digital subtraction angiography (CCQ-DSA) and parenchymal blood volume (PBV) were used to evaluate the blood volume and hemodynamic changes in different regions of the foot before and after the operation.

Results

After the intervention procedure, the overall blood volume significantly increased from 25.15 ± 21.1 ml/1,000 ml to 72.33 ± 29.3 ml/1,000 ml (p < 0.001, with an average increase of 47.18 ml/1,000 ml. The overall TTP decrease rate, postoperative blood flow time significantly faster than those preoperatively, from 22.93 ± 7.83 to 14.85 ± 5.9 s (p < 0.001, with an average decrease of 8.08 s). Direct revascularization (DR) resulted in significant blood volume improvement than compared with indirect revascularization (IR) [188% (28, 320) vs.51% (10, 110), p = 0.029]. Patients with DR had a significantly faster blood flow time than those with IR [80% (12, 180) vs. 26% (5, 80), p = 0.032]. The ankle-brachial index (ABI) of the affected extremity also showed an significant change from 0.49 ± 0.3 to 0.63 ± 0.24 (p < 0.001) after the intervention. The relative values of ΔTTP and ΔABI showed a weak correlation (r = −0.330).

Conclusions

The quantitative measurement results based on PBV and CCQ-DSA techniques showed that the overall blood volume increased significantly and that the foot distal hemodynamics were significantly improved after endovascular treatment. DR in the ischemic area could r improve foot perfusion.
A comparison of different established and novel methods to determine horses' laterality and their relation to rein tension
Authors: Kuhnke Sandra , König von Borstel Uta
Published: September 2022

The present study aimed to assess an agreement between established and novel methods to determine laterality and to identify the distribution of laterality in warmbloods and Thoroughbreds. Nine different methods to investigate a horses' laterality outside a riding context and during riding were compared across two groups of horses (sample A: 67 warmblood- type horses, sample B: 61 Thoroughbreds). Agreement between any two methods was assessed by calculating Cohen's kappa with McNemar's test or Bowker's Test of Symmetry, and the deviation from equal distributions was assessed with chi2-tests. Continuous variables such as rein tension parameters were analyzed using ANOVA or linear mixed models. Generally, laterality test results obtained outside a riding context did not agree with laterality during riding or among each other (Bonferroni corrected p > 0.0018). However, the rider's assessment of her/his horse's laterality allowed conclusions on rein tension symmetry (p = 0.003), and it also agreed substantially with the lateral displacement of the hindquarters (p = 0.0003), a method that was newly developed in the present study. The majority of warmbloods had their hindquarters displaced to the right (73.1%, X2 = 14.3; p < 0.0001). The pattern of lateral displacement of the hindquarters was similar in the Thoroughbred sample (right: 60.7%, left: 39.3%), but did not deviate significantly from an equal distribution (X2 = 2.8; p > 0.05). Laterality seems to be manifested in different ways, which generally are not related to each other. Attention should be paid to the desired information when selecting methods for the assessment of laterality. Horses' laterality has an impact on the magnitude and symmetry of rein tension. Matching horses and riders according to their laterality might be beneficial for the stability of rein tension and thus improve training.
Hematological and blood chemistry parameters of a Podocnemis vogli and P. unifilis captive population in Colombia
Authors: Rodríguez-Almonacid Cristian , Fuentes-Rodríguez Gustavo , González Leidy P. , Moreno-Torres Carlos , Matta Nubia E.
Published: September 2022

The Podocnemididae family is seriously affected by anthropogenic factors, which is why almost all of their family members are threatened, according to the IUCN red list. The biology and ecology of these species, as well as the hematological and serum chemistry reference intervals that allow clinical action and decision-making conservation programs, are poorly known. Based on this, the objective of this study was to establish the hematological and blood chemistry parameters of the Savannah side-necked turtle (Podocnemis vogli) and Yellow-spotted river turtle (Podocnemis unifilis) maintained in captivity at the Estación de Biología Tropical Roberto Franco (Villavicencio-Colombia). Forty-nine captive turtles of the speciesP. vogli(n = 28) andP. unifilis(n = 21) were sampled to determine hematological and serum chemistry parameters. Blood samples were taken from the jugular veins of both male and female turtles across both species. Student'st-test and Mann–Whitney–Wilcoxon tests were used to compare values between the parameters evaluated against genders and sizes. Reference intervals were calculated for the hematological and biochemical values of each species. Some assessed parameters demonstrated significant differences between the males and females of both species. Most of the analyzed parameters exhibited similar reference intervals in both species. In this study, we report values and propose the hematological and serum chemistry reference intervals forP. vogliandP. unifilis, which can be used in the clinical diagnosis of these reptiles and in future research.
Epidemiological survey of PRRS and genetic variation analysis of the ORF5 gene in Shandong Province, 2020–2021
Authors: Li Peixun , Shen Yesheng , Wang Tailong , Li Jing , Li Yan , Zhao Yiran , Liu Sidang , Li Baoquan , Liu Mengda , Meng Fanliang
Published: September 2022

Since the rise of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) in China, mutations have occurred regularly. In particular, the emergence of HP-PRRSV has significantly improved the pathogenicity of PRRSV. It has brought huge economic losses to the Chinese pig farming industry. To understand the current prevalence and evolution of PRRSV in Shandong Province, 1,344 samples suspected of having PRRSV were collected from local hog farms of different sizes. Genetic variation in the isolated PRRSV ORF5 gene was analyzed using the RT-PCR method. The results showed that the detection rate of PRRSV in the collected samples was 25.44%. The predominant strain of PRRSV in Shandong Province is still NADC30-like. However, it cannot be ignored that NADC34-like is also starting to become a prevalent strain. Mutations in ORF5 amino acids 13, 151 and neutralizing epitope (aa36-aa52) in some isolates can cause changes in virulence and ability to escape immunity. This study enriches the epidemiological data on PRRSV in Shandong Province, China. It provides an important reference for the development of new vaccines and for the prevention and control of PRRSV.
Measuring the Acoustical Properties of the BBC Maida Vale Recording Studios for Virtual Reality
Authors: Kearney Gavin , Daffern Helena , Cairns Patrick , Hunt Anthony , Lee Ben , Cooper Jacob , Tsagkarakis Panos , Rudzki Tomasz , Johnston Daniel
Published: September 2022

In this paper we present a complete acoustic survey of the British Broadcasting Corporation Maida Vale recording studios. The paper outlines a fast room acoustic measurement framework for capture of spatial impulse response measurements for use in three or six degrees of freedom Virtual Reality rendering. Binaural recordings from a KEMAR dummy head as well as higher order Ambisonic spatial room impulse response measurements taken using a higher order Ambisonic microphone are presented. An acoustic comparison of the studios is discussed, highlighting remarkable similarities across three of the recording spaces despite significant differences in geometry. Finally, a database of the measurements, housing the raw impulse response captures as well as processed spatial room impulse responses is presented.
Theoretical and Experimental Investigation of Geomagnetic Energy Effect for LEO Debris Deorbiting
Authors: Feng Guanhua , Zhang Chen , Zhang Heng , Li Wenhao
Published: September 2022

Space debris is increasingly problematic and needs active removal, especially in low Earth orbits (LEO). Paying for the vast cost of the disposal of debris from the situation is still inevitable even though pivotal technical hurdles have been overcome with the growing maturity of capturing and deorbiting methods. To this end, a novel geomagnetic energy (GME) propellant approach is firstly proposed to propel a spinning tethered spacecraft for LEO debris deorbiting, without the use of expendable fuel and a large-length tether. In this method, the time-cumulative effect of the interacted torque of the spacecraft’s electromagnet and geomagnetic field is used to accelerate the rotating system for GME storage, and the space momentum exchange from the angular momentum of system to the linear momentum of debris is introduced to deorbit the debris for GME release. Next, an on-orbit directional GME storage mechanism is built, and the corresponding two optimal strategies are put forward. Both theoretical and simulation results demonstrate that GME can be stored in the expected direction on any inclined LEO below 1000 km. Deorbiting kg-level debris can be accomplished within several orbital periods with the existing magnetorquer technology. Finally, proof-of-principle experiments of the GME effect are performed and elementarily validate the LEO GME utilization in space.
Test and Simulation Analysis of the Working Process of Soybean Seeding Monomer
Authors: Yan Dongxu , Xu Tianyue , Yu Jianqun , Wang Yang , Guan Wei , Tian Ye , Zhang Na
Published: September 2022

Soybean seeding monomers can realize the process of opening, seed throwing, covering, and compacting when they work. Due to the complexity of their working process, the relevant process cannot be analyzed by the discrete element method (DEM) alone. The DEM coupled with the multi-rigid body dynamics method (MBD) can solve the above problem, and the simulation analysis of the above process is realized by coupling the EDEM software with RecurDyn software. The changes in the position of soybean seed particles before and after covering and compacting are analyzed. The results show that when the working speed of the seeding monomer increases, the distance along the vertical direction of the soybean seed particles after covering gradually increases, and the distance along the horizontal direction gradually decreases. The effect of different working speeds of seeding monomer on the opening situation and the variation in seed particle positions is studied. The results show that the ditch angle gradually decreases as the working speed of the seeding monomer increases. The distribution of seed particle spacing is also analyzed. The above tests are simulated, and the results show a high agreement between the simulation and test results, proving the accuracy of the coupling method. This paper applies the coupling method for the first time to the simulation of the seeding monomer. This method can be applied not only to the analysis of the sowing process of soybean seeding monomers, but also be applied to the analysis of other machinery working processes, such as the tillage process, the sieving process, the planting and harvesting processes of crops, etc. It also deepens the application of the discrete element method in the field of agriculture.
Flower Strips and Their Ecological Multifunctionality in Agricultural Fields
Authors: Kowalska Jolanta , Antkowiak Małgorzata , Sienkiewicz Paweł
Published: September 2022

Flower strips can be an important component of integrated pest management and contribute to reducing pressure on agroecosystems, which is why they are increasingly implemented as part of agri-environmental programs. They can be used as a multifunctional agronomic tool because they can prevent the decline of species diversity in the agroecosystem and increase functional biodiversity, which is a prerequisite for the provision of ecosystem services, such as pollination and natural pest control. Research highlights the great potential and multifunctionality of flower strips. This paper provides a synthesis of the most important information and research findings regarding flower strips and may be a useful tool in relation to the European Green Deal, which aims to move the EU towards a green transformation. Where intensive chemical treatments in agriculture have contributed to the degradation of the agricultural landscape, flower strips can support its ecological intensification.
Effects of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens QST713 on Photosynthesis and Antioxidant Characteristics of Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) under Drought Stress
Authors: Han Lingjuan , Zhang Miaoling , Du Lixia , Zhang Li , Li Bin
Published: September 2022

Drought stress is a prevalent abiotic stress that adversely affects multiple physiological processes in plants, especially their photosynthetic capacity. Application of plant growth–promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) has been considered as an eco-friendly strategy to ameliorate the deleterious effects of drought stress on plants. The present study was carried out to investigate the effects of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens QST713 on plant growth, leaf relative water content (RWC), photosynthesis processes, photosynthetic pigment content and antioxidant enzyme activities in two alfalfa varieties, Galalxie Max (drought-tolerant) and Saidi 7 (drought-sensitive) under drought conditions. The results showed that drought stress significantly declined plant biomass production, RWC, photosynthetic pigment content (Chl a, Chl b and carotenoids) and photosynthetic gas exchange parameters (transpiration rate (Tr), stomatal conductance (Gs) and intercellular CO2 concentration (Ci)), whereas it enhanced the enzymatic activity of peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) in both cultivars. In contrast, the inoculation of the bacillus strain QST713 was more effective on plant growth, showing higher plant biomass production compared to the non-inoculated plants under drought stress. Moreover, the application of QST713 significantly promoted the content of RWC, the accumulation of chlorophyll content and the activities of antioxidant enzymes as well as enhanced the photosynthetic capacity of alfalfa seedlings under drought stress. These results suggest that QST713 could be considered as a promising bio-inoculant for plants exposed to environmental stresses.
Effects of a Local Tomato Rootstock on the Agronomic, Functional and Sensory Quality of the Fruit of a Recovered Local Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) Named “Tomate Limachino Antiguo”
Authors: Martínez Juan Pablo , Fuentes Raúl , Farías Karen , Loyola Nelson , Freixas Alejandra , Stange Claudia , Sagredo Boris , Quinet Muriel , Lutts Stanley
Published: September 2022

The Old Limachino Tomato is a valuable fruit with exceptional nutritional values and organoleptic sensory properties. However, it suffers from a short shelf-life, compromising post-harvest behavior. As an attempt to improve the fruit’s qualities, Limachino (L) scion was grafted onto rootstock from the rustic landrace Poncho Negro (R). Fruits produced in this graft combination were compared with fruits produced by self-grafted plants (L/L) and from a long-shelf-life cultivar Seminis (LSL). The trials were carried out for 146 days during summer of two consecutive years. Poncho Negro rootstock increased the total number of fruits produced by Limachino scion (L/R). It did not affect the fresh weight of individual fruits but reduced their water content. It has no impact on the Limachino fruit form (quality), a typical characteristic well appreciated by consumers. Fruits produced by LSL exhibited a higher firmness but a lower titratable acidity and antioxidant capacity than L/R and L/L fruits. Panels of 104 untrained final consumers and a trained panel of 13 experts attributed the highest value to L/R fruits and the lowest one to LSL. It was concluded that Poncho Negro rootstock contributes to increasing preferences and the level of acceptability towards Limachino fruits. Further research is needed to develop local technologies in order to expand the production of local tomatoes that are highly valued by consumers.
Genetic Characterization of a Plum Landrace Collection from La Palma, Canary Islands
Authors: Pérez Verónica , Rodrigo Javier , Abdallah Donia , Larranaga Nerea , Hormaza José I.
Published: September 2022

A plum collection located in the island of La Palma, Canary Islands, composed of twenty-nine European and Japanese plums was analyzed using nine simple sequence repeat (SSR) highly polymorphic loci. First, a cytometry flow analysis was performed to determine the ploidy level. Sixteen accessions turned out diploid and thirteen hexaploid. According to morphological characteristics, fourteen of the sixteen diploid accessions were assigned to Prunus salicina, and two accessions to P. cerasifera. All the hexaploid accessions were assigned to P. domestica. The 29 accessions were compared using SSR markers with twenty-two P. domestica accessions maintained at the CITA plum germplasm collection located in Zaragoza, Aragón, Spain. A principal component analysis (PCA) and a clustering approach grouped the accessions according to the assigned species and geographical location, while some synonyms and homonyms were found within La Palma accessions. The two principal components explained 80.3% (67.3% and 13%, respectively) of the total variance. A tree generated with UPGMA hierarchical clustering and Bruvo distance grouped the accessions in two main clusters according to ploidy level and species assignment. The STRUCTURE approach clearly differentiated La Palma diploid accessions and some of the hexaploid accessions from those of the CITA collection. The results obtained could be used for management and conservation purposes of this valuable local plum germplasm.
Design and Optimization of a Machine-Vision-Based Complementary Seeding Device for Tray-Type Green Onion Seedling Machines
Authors: Gao Junpeng , Li Yuhua , Zhou Kai , Wu Yanqiang , Hou Jialin
Published: September 2022

Green onion (Allium fistulosum L.) is mainly available as factory-produced seedlings. Although factory seedling production is highly automated, miss-seeding during the seeding process considerably affects subsequent transplanting and the final yield. To solve the problem of miss-seeding, the current main method is manual complementary seeding, which is labor-intensive and inefficient work. In this study, an automatic machine-vision-based complementary seeding device was proposed to reduce the miss-seeding rate and as a replacement of manual complementary seeding. The device performs several main functions, including the identification of miss-seeding holes, control of seed case movement, and the seed uptake and release from the seed suction nozzle array. A majority-mechanism-based miss-seeding tray hole rapid-detection method was proposed to enable the real-time identification of miss-seeding tray holes in the tray under high-speed moving conditions. The structural parameters of the vacuum-generated seed suction nozzle were optimized through numerical simulations and orthogonal experiments, and the seed suction nozzle array and seed case were produced using 3D-printing technology. Finally, the complementary seeding device was installed on the tray-type green onion seeding machine and the effectiveness of the complementary seeding was confirmed by experiments. The results revealed that the average values of the precision, recall, and F1 scores for identifying miss-seeding tray holes were 98.48%, 97.00%, and 97.73%, respectively. The results revealed that the rate of miss-seeding tray holes decreased from 5.37% to 0.89% after complementary seeding.
Bridging East-West Differences in Ethics Guidance for AI and Robotics
Authors: Jecker Nancy S. , Nakazawa Eisuke
Published: September 2022

Societies of the East are often contrasted with those of the West in their stances toward technology. This paper explores these perceived differences in the context of international ethics guidance for artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics. Japan serves as an example of the East, while Europe and North America serve as examples of the West. The paper’s principal aim is to demonstrate that Western values predominate in international ethics guidance and that Japanese values serve as a much-needed corrective. We recommend a hybrid approach that is more inclusive and truly ‘international’. Following an introduction, the paper examines distinct stances toward robots that emerged in the West and Japan, respectively, during the aftermath of the Second World War, reflecting history and popular culture, socio-economic conditions, and religious worldviews. It shows how international ethics guidelines reflect these disparate stances, drawing on a 2019 scoping review that examined 84 international AI ethics documents. These documents are heavily skewed toward precautionary values associated with the West and cite the optimistic values associated with Japan less frequently. Drawing insights from Japan’s so-called ‘moonshot goals’, the paper fleshes out Japanese values in greater detail and shows how to incorporate them more effectively in international ethics guidelines for AI and robotics.
The Colour, Composition and Eating Quality of Beef from Late- or Early-Maturing Suckler Bulls Finished at Pasture with or without Concentrate Supplementation
Authors: Moloney Aidan P. , Wilson Shannon S. , Siphambili Sibhekiso , Moran Lara , O’Riordan Edward G. , O’Sullivan Maurice G. , Kerry Joseph P. , Monahan Frank J. , McGee Mark
Published: September 2022

Carcasses from pasture-finished early-maturing (EM), rather than late-maturing (LM), breed bulls may be more suited to meet the minimum carcass fatness classification of 2+ (6.0 on a 15-point scale) required for some markets. The comparative colour and eating quality of beef from grass-fed bulls of different maturities are unknown. Sixty yearling suckler-bred bulls were assigned to a 2 (maturities: EM and LM) × 2 (finishing strategies: grass only (G0) or grass + 4.0 kg concentrate daily (GC)) factorial design. Bulls were at pasture from 7 April, concentrates were introduced (or not) 97 days later, and bulls were slaughtered at 192 d post-turnout (approximately 19 mo of age). Carcass fat scores averaged 5.02, 6.20, 6.33 and 7.30 for LMG0, LMGC, EMG0 and EMGC bulls, respectively. Muscle colour did not differ between treatments. Muscle from LM had lower intramuscular fat concentration, collagen solubility and a tendency (p < 0.1) towards lower ratings for tenderness, texture, and acceptability of 14 d aged beef. Concentrate supplementation decreased the ratings for muscle tenderness but ratings for acceptability were not affected. Achieving the minimum carcass fatness was therefore not required to produce beef of acceptable eating quality and suckler bulls can access the “grass-fed” beef market.
Genomic Selection in Chinese Holsteins Using Regularized Regression Models for Feature Selection of Whole Genome Sequencing Data
Authors: Li Shanshan , Yu Jian , Kang Huimin , Liu Jianfeng
Published: September 2022

Genomic selection (GS) is an efficient method to improve genetically economic traits. Feature selection is an important method for GS based on whole-genome sequencing (WGS) data. We investigated the prediction performance of GS of milk production traits using imputed WGS data on 7957 Chinese Holsteins. We used two regularized regression models, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) and elastic net (EN) for feature selection. For comparison, we performed genome-wide association studies based on a linear mixed model (LMM), and the N single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with the lowest p-values were selected (LMMLASSO and LMMEN), where N was the number of non-zero effect SNPs selected by LASSO or EN. GS was conducted using a genomic best linear unbiased prediction (GBLUP) model and several sets of SNPs: (1) selected WGS SNPs; (2) 50K SNP chip data; (3) WGS data; and (4) a combined set of selected WGS SNPs and 50K SNP chip data. The results showed that the prediction accuracies of GS with features selected using LASSO or EN were comparable to those using features selected with LMMLASSO or LMMEN. For milk and protein yields, GS using a combination of SNPs selected with LASSO and 50K SNP chip data achieved the best prediction performance, and GS using SNPs selected with LMMLASSO combined with 50K SNP chip data performed best for fat yield. The proposed method, feature selection using regularization regression models, provides a valuable novel strategy for WGS-based GS.
Reporting of Freshwater Cyanobacterial Poisoning in Terrestrial Wildlife: A Systematic Map
Authors: Ash Alexandra K. , Patterson Stuart
Published: September 2022

Global warming and over-enrichment of freshwater systems have led to an increase in harmful cyanobacterial blooms (cyanoHABs), affecting human and animal health. The aim of this systematic map was to detail the current literature surrounding cyanotoxin poisonings in terrestrial wildlife and identify possible improvements to reports of morbidity and mortality from cyanotoxins. A systematic search was conducted using the electronic databases Scopus and Web of Science, yielding 5059 published studies identifying 45 separate case reports of wildlife poisonings from North America, Africa, Europe, and Asia. Currently, no gold standard for the diagnosis of cyanotoxin intoxication exists for wildlife, and we present suggested guidelines here. These involved immunoassays and analytical chemistry techniques to identify the toxin involved, PCR to identify the cyanobacterial species involved, and evidence of ingestion or exposure to cyanotoxins in the animals affected. Of the 45 cases, our recommended methods concurred with 48.9% of cases. Most often, cases were investigated after a mortality event had already occurred, and where mitigation was implemented, only three cases were successful in their efforts. Notably, only one case of invasive cyanobacteria was recorded in this review despite invasive species being known to occur throughout the globe; this could explain the underreporting of invasive cyanobacteria. This systematic map highlights the perceived absence of robust detection, surveillance, and diagnosis of cyanotoxin poisoning in wildlife. It may be true that wildlife is less susceptible to these poisoning events; however, the true rates of poisoning are likely much more than is reported in the literature.
Effects of Three Feed Additives on the Culturable Microbiota Composition and Histology of the Anterior and Posterior Intestines of Zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Authors: Nikiforov-Nikishin Alexei , Smorodinskaya Svetlana , Kochetkov Nikita , Nikiforov-Nikishin Dmitry , Danilenko Valery , Bugaev Oleg , Vatlin Aleksey , Abrosimova Nina , Antipov Sergei , Kudryavtsev Alexander , Klimov Viktor
Published: September 2022

In this study, the effect of three promising feed additives (chelated compounds of trace elements, butyric acid, lycopene) on changes in the culturable microbiota and histological parameters of two sections of the intestines of Danio rerio (zebrafish) was studied. The use of these feed additives can help to eliminate the deficiency of trace elements, modulate the composition of the microbiota due to the postbiotic properties of butyric acid, and reduce oxidative stress when using lycopene. Incorporation of the investigated supplements in the feed resulted in a significant change in the relative abundance of certain groups of microorganisms. The taxonomic diversity of cultured microorganisms did not differ in the anterior and posterior intestines, while there were differences in the relative abundance of these microorganisms. The most sensitive groups of microorganisms were the genera Bacillus and Serratia. A significant effect on the composition of the cultured microbiota was caused by lycopene (in all studied concentrations), leading to a significant increase in the relative abundance of Firmicutes in the anterior gut. Studies of the histological structure of the anterior and posterior guts have shown the relationship between the barrier and secretory functions of the gut and the composition of the microbiota while using butyric acid (1 and 2 g kg−1) and trace element chelated compounds (2 mg kg−1). This culture-dependent method of studying the microbiome makes it possible to assess changes in some representatives of the main groups of microorganisms (Firmicutes and Proteobacteria). Despite the incompleteness of the data obtained by the culture-dependent method, its application makes it possible to assess the bioactive properties of feed and feed additives and their impact on the microbiota involved in digestive processes.
Occurrence of Antimicrobial-Resistant Escherichia coli in Marine Mammals of the North and Baltic Seas: Sentinels for Human Health
Authors: Gross Stephanie , Müller Anja , Seinige Diana , Wohlsein Peter , Oliveira Manuela , Steinhagen Dieter , Kehrenberg Corinna , Siebert Ursula
Published: September 2022

Antimicrobial resistance is a global health threat that involves complex, opaque transmission processes in the environment. In particular, wildlife appears to function as a reservoir and vector for antimicrobial-resistant bacteria as well as resistance genes. In the present study, the occurrence of antimicrobial-resistant Escherichia coli was determined in marine mammals and various fish species of the North and Baltic Seas. Rectal or faecal swabs were collected from 66 live-caught or stranded marine mammals and 40 fish specimens. The antimicrobial resistance phenotypes and genotypes of isolated E. coli were determined using disk diffusion tests and PCR assays. Furthermore, isolates were assigned to the four major phylogenetic groups of E. coli. Additionally, post mortem examinations were performed on 41 of the sampled marine mammals. The investigations revealed resistant E. coli in 39.4% of the marine mammal samples, while no resistant isolates were obtained from any of the fish samples. The obtained isolates most frequently exhibited resistance against aminoglycosides, followed by β-lactams. Of the isolates, 37.2% showed multidrug resistance. Harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) mainly carried E. coli isolates belonging to the phylogenetic group B1, while seal isolates were most frequently assigned to group B2. Regarding antimicrobial resistance, no significant differences were seen between the two sampling areas or different health parameters, but multidrug-resistant isolates were more frequent in harbour porpoises than in the sampled seals. The presented results provide information on the distribution of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria in the North and Baltic Seas, and highlight the role of these resident marine mammal species as sentinels from a One Health perspective.
ROS Induced by Streptococcus agalactiae Activate Inflammatory Responses via the TNF-α/NF-κB Signaling Pathway in Golden Pompano Trachinotus ovatus (Linnaeus, 1758)
Authors: Gao Jie , Liu Mingjian , Guo Huayang , Zhu Kecheng , Liu Bo , Liu Baosuo , Zhang Nan , Zhang Dianchang
Published: September 2022

Streptococcus agalactiae is common pathogenic bacteria in aquaculture and can cause mass mortality after fish infection. This study aimed to investigate the effects of S. agalactiae infection on the immune and antioxidant regulatory mechanisms of golden pompano (Trachinotus ovatus). Serum and liver samples were obtained at 0, 6, 12, 24, 48, 96, and 120 h after golden pompano infection with S. agalactiae for enzyme activity and gene expression analyses. After infection with S. agalactiae, the content of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in serum was significantly increased (p < 0.05). Serum levels of glucose (GLU), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and malondialdehyde (MDA) increased and then decreased (p < 0.05), reaching a maximum at 6 h. Serum antioxidant enzyme (LZM) activity increased significantly (p < 0.05) and reached a maximum at 120 h. In addition, the mRNA expression levels of antioxidant genes (SOD, CAT, and GPx) in the liver increased and then decreased, reaching the maximum at 24 h, 48 h, and 24 h, respectively. During the experimental period, the mRNA expression levels of NF-κB-related genes of the inflammatory signaling pathway inhibitory κB (IκB) showed an overall decreasing trend (p < 0.05) and the lowest expression at 120 h, whereas the mRNA expression levels of tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IκB kinase (IKK), and nuclear factor NF-κB increased significantly (p < 0.05) and the highest expression was at 120 h. In conclusion, these results showed that S. agalactiae could activate internal regulatory signaling in the liver of golden pompano to induce defense and immune responses. This study is expected to lay a foundation to develop the healthy aquaculture of golden pompano and promote a more comprehensive understanding of its disease resistance mechanisms.
Targeting Oxidative Stress in Intracerebral Hemorrhage: Prospects of the Natural Products Approach
Authors: Zheng Yingyi , Li Ruoqi , Fan Xiang
Published: September 2022

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), the second most common subtype of stroke, remains a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The pathological mechanism of ICH is very complex, and it has been demonstrated that oxidative stress (OS) plays an important role in the pathogenesis of ICH. Previous studies have shown that OS is a therapeutic target after ICH, and antioxidants have also achieved some benefits in the treatment of ICH. This review aimed to explore the promise of natural products therapy to target OS in ICH. We searched PubMed using the keywords “oxidative stress in intracerebral hemorrhage” and “natural products in intracerebral hemorrhage”. Numerous animal and cell studies on ICH have demonstrated the potent antioxidant properties of natural products, including polyphenols and phenolic compounds, terpenoids, alkaloids, etc. In summary, natural products such as antioxidants offer the possibility of treatment of OS after ICH. However, researchers still have a long way to go to apply these natural products for the treatment of ICH more widely in the clinic.
Tenovin-1 Ameliorates Renal Fibrosis in High-Fat-Diet-Induced Diabetic Nephropathy via Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Pathways
Authors: Kundu Amit , Gali Sreevarsha , Sharma Swati , Park Jae Hyeon , Kyung So Young , Kacew Sam , Kim In Su , Lee Kwang Youl , Kim Hyung Sik
Published: September 2022

High-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity has been involved in the development of diabetic nephropathy (DN). Tenovin-1, a potent selective SIRT1/2 inhibitor, regulates various target proteins. The present study evaluated the protective effect of Tenovin-1 against renal fibrosis in HFD-induced Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats. Rats were fed a normal chow diet or HFD. Tenovin-1 (45 mg/kg) administered to HFD-fed rats decreased inflammatory cytokine expression in the serum of the rats. The antioxidant status and oxidative damage to lipids or DNA were significantly restored by Tenovin-1. Additionally, Tenovin-1 reduced the levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN), serum creatinine (sCr), microalbumin, and urinary protein-based biomarkers in the urine of HFD-fed rats. The abnormal architecture of the kidney and pancreas was restored by Tenovin-1 administration. Tenovin-1 also reduced apoptosis in the kidneys of the HFD-fed rats and HG-treated NRK-52E cells. It significantly lowered the levels of ECM proteins in the kidneys of HFD-fed rats and HG-treated NRK-52E cells. Additionally, Tenovin-1 markedly reduced claudin-1, SIRT1, and SIRT2, but increased SIRT3 and SIRT4 in HFD-fed rats and NRK-52E cells treated with HG. Furthermore, Tenovin-1 altered epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), platelet-derived growth factor receptor-β (PDGFR-β), and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) levels in the kidneys of HFD-fed rats. Conclusively, this study shows that Tenovin-1 can be a potential candidate drug for the treatment of HFD-induced renal fibrosis, in vivo and in vitro models.
Application of Soft Computing Techniques for Predicting Thermal Conductivity of Rocks
Authors: Samaei Masoud , Massalow Timur , Abdolhosseinzadeh Ali , Yagiz Saffet , Sabri Mohanad Muayad Sabri
Published: September 2022

Due to the different challenges in rock sampling and in measuring their thermal conductivity (TC) in the field and laboratory, the determination of the TC of rocks using non-invasive methods is in demand in engineering projects. The relationship between TC and non-destructive tests has not been well-established. An investigation of the most important variables affecting the TC values for rocks was conducted in this study. Currently, the black-boxed models for TC prediction are being replaced with artificial intelligence-based models, with mathematical equations to fill the gap caused by the lack of a tangible model for future studies and developments. In this regard, two models were developed based on which gene expression programming (GEP) algorithms and non-linear multivariable regressions (NLMR) were utilized. When comparing the performances of the proposed models to that of other previously published models, it was revealed that the GEP and NLMR models were able to produce more accurate predictions than other models were. Moreover, the high value of R-squared (equals 0.95) for the GEP model confirmed its superiority.
Seismic Microzonation Map for a Fixed-Jacket Platform in the Malay Basin
Authors: Mazlina Mohamad , Liew M. S. , Danyaro Kamaluddeen Usman , Adnan Azlan , Hamid Nor Hayati Ab
Published: September 2022

The existence of soft soil in offshore areas may lead to the amplification of vibration received from offshore facilities, especially from the existing fixed-jacket platforms, which were designed without provision to seismicity, as in Malaysian water. Therefore, this study was designed to develop a seismic microzonation map and a soil amplification factor map according to soil type; we propose horizontal response spectra and site coefficient values (Ca and Cv) for the Malay Basin. A one-dimensional nonlinear analysis of layered soil (NERA) was used in the ground response analysis for six selected seismic events under five return periods of 100, 200, 500, 1000, and 2500 years. Soil amplification factors for soil types D and E showed a decreasing trend from 100 years to 2500 years. Two designed horizontal response spectra are proposed (for soil type D and E) under average and envelope conditions; a comparison with ISO showed that the proposed spectra were higher, especially for soil type E. To summarize, the seismicity effect should be included in the development of offshore industries as findings indicated that soil amplification occurred in soil types D and E at the Malay Basin.
Plasticizer Di-(2-ethylhexyl) Phthalate and Its Metabolite Mono(2-ethylhexyl) Phthalate Inhibit Myogenesis in Differentiating Mouse and Human Skeletal Muscle Cell Models
Authors: Lan Kuo-Cheng , Weng Te-I , Chiang Wei-Che , Chiu Chen-Yuan , Chan Ding-Cheng , Yang Rong-Sen , Liu Shing-Hwa
Published: September 2022

The relationship between plasticizer di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) and low birth weight in neonates has been reported. Immature muscle differentiation may be involved in low birth weight. The myotoxic characteristics of chemicals have been observed in differentiating immortalized and primary muscle cells. Here, we explored the myotoxic effects of DEHP and its metabolite mono(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP) in vitro using the immortalized mouse skeletal myoblasts C2C12 and primary human skeletal muscle progenitor cell (HSMPC) models. We found that both DEHP and MEHP at the concentrations of 10–100 μM, which were non- and low-cytotoxicity concentrations, significantly and dose-dependently inhibited the creatine kinase activity, myotube formation with multiple nuclei, and myogenin and myosin heavy chain (muscle differentiation markers) protein expression in C2C12 and HSMPCs under differentiation medium. Both DEHP and MEHP significantly decreased Akt phosphorylation in C2C12 and HSMPCs during differentiation. Taken together, DEHP and its metabolite MEHP are capable of inhibiting Akt-regulated myogenesis in myoblasts/myogenic progenitors during differentiation. These findings suggest the possibility of DEHP as an environmental risk factor affecting skeletal myogenic differentiation. Moreover, these in vitro muscle cell models may be a possible alternative method to animal myotoxicity testing.