bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Supplementation With Zinc Proteinate Increases the Growth Performance by Reducing the Incidence of Diarrhea and Improving the Immune Function of Dairy Calves During the First Month of Life
Authors: Wo Yeqianli , Jin Yuhang , Gao Duo , Ma Fengtao , Ma Zhu , Liu Zhuo , Chu Kangkang , Sun Peng
Published: July 2022

Two experiments were conducted to identify the optimal dose of zinc proteinate (ZP) in the diet for dairy calves and then to compare early supplementation with the ZP or zinc methionine (ZM) on the growth performance, incidence of diarrhea, antioxidant status, and immune function of dairy calves during their first month of life. In Experiment 1, forty newborn female Holstein dairy calves were randomly divided into four groups (n= 10): a control group (without ZP supplementation, ZP0) or groups that received ZP supplementation at 40, 80, and 120 mg zinc/day, respectively (ZP40, ZP80, and ZP120). The experiment lasted 14 days, and the growth performance, incidence of diarrhea, and serum zinc concentration were analyzed. In Experiment 2, thirty-six newborn female Holstein dairy calves were randomly allocated to three groups (n= 12): a negative control group (without zinc supplementation, CON), a positive control group (supplemented with 80 mg zinc/day in the form of zinc methionine, ZM), and a ZP group (supplemented with 80 mg zinc/day in the form of ZP). The experiment lasted 28 days, and the growth performance, incidence of diarrhea, serum zinc concentration, serum antioxidant indicators, and concentrations of plasma immunoglobulins and cytokines were determined on days 7, 14, 21, and 28. Results showed that in Experiment 1, supplementation with ZP to yield 80 mg zinc/day increased the ADG (P< 0.01) and serum zinc concentration (P< 0.01), and decreased the F/G (P< 0.01) and the incidence of diarrhea (P< 0.05) during days 1–14. In Experiment 2, compared with the CON group, ZP increased the ADG (P< 0.01), serum zinc concentration (P< 0.01), and plasma immunoglobulin G (IgG;P< 0.01) and IgM (P< 0.01) concentrations, but reduced the incidence of diarrhea (P< 0.01), serum malondialdehyde (P< 0.01), and plasma interleukin-1β (P< 0.01) concentrations during days 1–28. Overall, ZP supplementation to yield 80 mg zinc/day improves the growth performance and immune function, and decrease the incidence of diarrhea of dairy calves, which was comparable to the same dose of zinc in the form of ZM.
Associations Between Incident Asthma With Comorbidity Profiles, Night Sleep Duration, and Napping Duration Trajectories: A 7-Year Prospective Study
Authors: Hu Zhigang , Tian Yufeng , Song Xinyu , Hu Ke , Yang Ailan
Published: July 2022

Objectives: We aim to determine whether comorbidity profiles, night sleep duration, and napping duration trajectories were associated with incident asthma in Chinese adults.

Methods: A total of 7,655 community-dwelling individuals were included in this study. Latent class/profile analysis(LCA/LPA) identified comorbidity profiles, night sleep duration, and napping duration trajectories. A generalized additive model with binomial regression assessed the associations between incident asthma with sleep trajectories.

Results: During a 7-year follow-up period, 205 individuals were newly diagnosed with asthma. LPA identified four trajectories of night sleep duration: dominant short (n = 2,480), dominant healthy-long (n = 1,405), long decreasing (n = 1875), and short increasing (n = 1895). We also found three trajectories of napping duration: short increasing (n = 3,746), stable normal (n = 1,379), and long decreasing (n = 2,530). We found three comorbidity profiles: dominant heart diseases or risks (n = 766), multiple disorders (n = 758), and minimal or least disorders (n = 6,131). Compared with dominant short night sleep duration, three other trajectories were associated with significantly decreasing incident asthma. Minimal or least disorders profile was associated with a significant reduction of new-onset asthma than two other comorbidity profiles in dominant short night sleep duration.

Conclusion: Our findings suggested that a dominant short night sleep duration trajectory potentially increases incident asthma in Chinese adults.
Incremental Backstepping Sliding-Mode Trajectory Control for Tailless Aircraft with Stability Enhancer
Authors: He Zihou , Hu Jianbo , Wang Yingyang , Cong Jiping , Han Linxiao , Su Maoyu
Published: July 2022

This paper presents an incremental backstepping sliding-mode (IBS) controller for trajectory control of a tailless aircraft with unknown disturbances and model uncertainties. The proposed controller is based on a nonlinear dynamic model of the tailless aircraft. A stability enhancer (SE) that limits both the rate and amplitude of the virtual control input is proposed. The stability enhancer consists of two layers. When the virtual control input approaches the edge, the first layer SE would be activated to modify the trajectory tracking error; when the virtual control input exceeds the edge, the second layer SE would reduce the control gains to make sure the virtual control input drops within the edge as soon as possible. With the help of SE, the incremental control method could be extended to outer-loop control without considering the dynamics of the inner-loop system. In addition, an adaptive estimator for state derivatives is proposed, together with IBS, allowing the controller to show excellent robustness. Finally, two simulations are presented. The first simulation shows that the system is insensitive to external disturbances and model uncertainties, and the effectiveness of SE is proved in the second simulation.
Integrating Traditional Wheat-Based Foods with High Health Value Flours: Castanea spp. Agro-Biodiversity in Bakery Products
Authors: Donno Dario , Fabro Michele , Mellano Maria Gabriella , Gamba Giovanni , Fioccardi Annachiara , Beccaro Gabriele Loris
Published: July 2022

In European countries, the utilisation of chestnut flours (CF) has been increasing in the bakery industry because the CF ingredients provide not only nutritional and health benefits but also improve organoleptic and health-promoting properties. This work aimed to describe the phytochemical properties and antioxidant capacity of chestnut flours from different Castanea spp. genotypes and origins, studying the effects of the addition of CF to traditional wheat-based cookies on their quality and sensory traits. Commercial chestnut flours were also considered. CF used in addition to wheat-based flours may increase the quality and health-promoting value of bakery products for its many benefits: (i) nutritional and phytochemical value; (ii) zero-Km availability in many producing areas (Europe, Asia, Australia, and North and South America); (iii) for these areas, food security is connected to a vulnerable wheat-based food system. Chromatographic and spectroscopic methods were utilised to assess the composition and antioxidant properties of the considered chestnut flours. The sensory value of the prepared chestnut/wheat-based cookies was also assessed by a panel of common consumers (hedonistic test by a 9-points hedonistic scale). Monoterpenes were the main substances in the flour phytocomplex, reaching 80–90% of the total, followed by phenolics (8–12%) and vitamin C in trace (1–3%). Antioxidant capacity ranged from 9.64 ± 0.96 mmol Fe+2 kg−1 DW (BOUC flour from cv Bouche de Bétizac) to 17.33 ± 1.35 mmol Fe+2 kg−1 DW (CANA flour from cv Canalutta). In this research study, the cookies derived from CANA and BOUC flours were considered the most appreciated products by consumers, with values of 7.09 ± 0.46 and 6.88 ± 0.18, respectively. These results confirmed that integrating phytochemical data with sensory results is very important for food industries to obtain a complete description of the analysed flours and consequently of the derived products to produce new bakery products highly appreciated by consumers with high health value in comparison to the traditional products.
Division of Labor among Worker Bees Is Associated with the Lipidomic Plasticity in Their Brains
Authors: Zhang Xiaojing , Hao Yue , Niu Qingsheng , Chen Yanping , Xia Zhenyu , Xie Zihan , Zhao Yazhou , Kong Lingjie , Peng Wenjun
Published: July 2022

The division of labor is a dominant characteristic of honeybees and is accompanied by behavioral specialization and cognitive enhancement. As the central nervous system to control the labor-specific behaviors of honeybee, the brain is richest in lipid in terms of both diversity and abundance. In this study, an in-depth LC-MS/MS-based lipidomic method was applied to systematically characterize the brain lipid compositions of worker bees with three labor stages: newly emerged bee (NEB), nurse bee (NB), and forager bee (FB). A total number of 337 lipid species that assigned to 20 lipid classes were analyzed. The association of the brain lipidomes with the division of labors was suggested by the results of both the unsupervised and supervised multivariate pattern recognition analysis. More than 68% of the identified lipid species were found to be significantly changed in at least one comparison between NEB, NB, and FB. A total of 81 lipid species were identified as the potential labor-featured molecules with VIP > 1 and p-adj < 0.05. The labor-featured lipids of FA(18:2), FA(18:3), FA(26:0), PC(18:0_18:3), PS(18:1_18:1), SM(d38:1), CoQ10, and CoQ9, as well as their interactions with 12 behavior-related genes, including AmEST-6, AmFABP, AmE75, AmDGAT2, AmLSD1, AmNPC1, AmABCA1, AmNMDAR1, AmHTT, AmNOS, etc., were revealed by the further IPA analysis. These findings demonstrate for the first time that the brain lipidomes of worker bees are associated with the stable differences in their labors, which help understand the function of brain lipids on the labor-dependent behaviors of honeybees.
Multigenerational Effects of Short-Term High Temperature on the Development and Reproduction of the Zeugodacus cucurbitae (Coquillett, 1899)
Authors: Zeng Bei , Lian Yuyang , Jia Jingjing , Liu Yang , Wang Aqiang , Yang Heming , Li Jinlei , Yang Shuyan , Peng Sihua , Zhou Shihao
Published: July 2022

Zeugodacus cucurbitae is an important pest of fruit and vegetable crops in tropical and subtropical regions, and high-temperature stress can have different effects on the development and reproduction of successive generations of Z. cucurbitae. To clarify the multigenerational effects of short-time high temperature on the development and reproduction of Z. cucurbitae, the newly emerged adults of the contemporary (F1 generation) and the next generation (F2 generation) were exposed to short-term high temperatures of 25 °C, 33 °C, 37 °C, 41 °C, and 45 °C for 1 h, and the multigenerational (F1, F2, and F3 generation) effects of these temperatures on the development and reproduction of Z. cucurbitae were evaluated. The results showed that (1) when the F1 was exposed to short-term high temperature, the egg production and lifespan of the F1 decreased continuously with the increasing temperature, except for the 45 °C treatment for 1 h, which stimulated egg production. Only the 41 °C group had significantly higher egg production and lifespan than the control group in the F3. (2) In the F1 and F2 that were exposed to short-term high temperature, the F1 and F3 were consistent with the results of F1 that were exposed to short-term high temperature. In conclusion, the effects of high-temperature intensity and frequency on multiple generations of Z. cucurbitae were different. The results of this study can elucidate the effects of short-term high-temperature stress on the growth, development, and reproduction of Z. cucurbitae in different generations, and provide a reference basis for the integrated control of Z. cucurbitae.
Relationship between Temperate Grass Sward Characteristics and the Grazing Behavior of Dairy Heifers
Authors: Soder Kathy J. , Brink Geoffrey E. , Raynor Edward J. , Casler Michael D.
Published: July 2022

Sward architecture mediates ruminant grazing behavior in temperate grazing lands. Temperate grasses differ in their sward structure, which may influence the grazing behavior of cattle. We determined relationships between the grazing behavior of dairy heifers and the sward structure of the following temperate grasses: meadow fescue (Schedonorus pratensis (Huds.) P. Beauv.), orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata L.), quackgrass (Elymus repens (L.) Gould), and reed canarygrass (Phalaris arundinacea L.). Vegetative-stage grasses were rotationally grazed by Holstein heifers (average initial body weight of 460 kg) during 5 day periods in the spring, summer, and fall of 2007 and 2008. The herbage dry matter (DM) allowance was twice the expected daily intake (11 kg DM animal−1 d−1). The sward characteristics were measured before grazing (e.g., the herbage height and mass, vertical distribution of leaf and stem fraction, and nutritive value). The grazing behavior of the heifers was quantified using automatic jaw movement recorders. In this study, the grass species had little effect on the grazing behavior. However, the bite rate was negatively correlated with the herbage mass, while the number of bites was positively correlated with the sward height and herbage mass. These results suggest that when herbage availability is not limited, grazing dairy heifers exhibit similar ingestive and rumination behavior across grass species and seasons, yet jaw movement dynamics may respond to the different characteristics of the swards. The results of this study provide the following benefits: (1) they inform managers about the jaw movement mechanics that can be expected of dairy heifers in temperate forage systems, showing that they are not limited by herbage allowance, and (2) they provide insight for future studies that employ on-animal sensors to evaluate foraging dynamics and animal performance outcomes in temperate forage pasture systems.
Deciphering the Effectiveness of Humic Substances and Biochar Modified Digestates on Soil Quality and Plant Biomass Accumulation
Authors: Holatko Jiri , Hammerschmiedt Tereza , Latal Oldrich , Kintl Antonin , Mustafa Adnan , Baltazar Tivadar , Malicek Ondrej , Brtnicky Martin
Published: July 2022

The effective use of digestate as exogenous organic matter to enhance soil carbon sequestration depends on the balance between labile and recalcitrant organic carbon, which is influenced by the type of feedstock, the fermentation process, and the fraction (liquid, solid) of the fermented product used. In this work, in order to change the ratio of labile to stable carbon in the resulting fertiliser, the digestate was mixed with organic carbon-rich supplements: biochar and Humac (a humic acid-rich substance). The pot experiment was carried out under controlled conditions with maize (Zea mays L.) in soil amended with the digestate (D), which was incubated with Humac (H), biochar (B), or a combination of both (D + B + H) before the application. Digestate enriched with Humac showed improved short-term nutrient (carbon, phosphorus, nitrogen) transformation, as indicated by soil enzyme activity and the highest maize biomass production of. Total carbon content, C:N ratio, short-term respiration activity, and nitrification were most enhanced by digestate enriched with either biochar or combined biochar + Humac). Long-term nitrogen mineralization was mostly enhanced by digestate + Humac, as indicated by amino-acid-induced respiration and urease activity. Short-term positive effects of digestate + biochar (eventually + Humac) on catabolism were proven, whereas their long-term effects on nutrient mineralization were negative (i.e., biochar-mediated immobilization, sequestration), which should be the focus of further research in future.
Alkaline Salt Tolerance of the Biomass Plant Arundo donax
Authors: Müller Brigitta , Arcoverde Cerveira Sterner Vitor , Papp László , May Zoltán , Orlóci László , Gyuricza Csaba , Sági László , Solti Ádám , Fodor Ferenc
Published: July 2022

Soil alkalinization and salinization have increased worldwide due to extreme and/or prolonged drought periods as well as insufficient irrigation. Since crops generally react to soil salinity and high pH with decreased yield, the cultivation of tolerant biomass plants represents a reasonable alternative. Thus, we aimed to characterize the tolerance of the biomass plant Arundo donax to alkaline salt stress, induced by irrigation water containing NaHCO3 and Na2CO3 mixture (1:1) at 80 mM and 200 mM of final concentration and pH 10. In terms of physiological parameters such as transpiration, chlorophyll content, photosystem II quantum efficiency, relative water content, and water saturation, the plants were resistant to the stress treatment. The negative impact on the water regime was only measured at 200 mM salt. The K/Na ratio decreased in parallel with Na accumulation. Plants also accumulated Zn, whereas a decrease in the concentration of most other elements (Ca, Cu, K, Mg, Ni, S, Si, and Sr) was detected. Antioxidative defence directed by multiple symplastic enzymes contributed to the high physiological tolerance to the applied stress. In conclusion, the cultivation of Arundo donax as a biomass crop appears to be a feasible alternative in areas affected by salinity or alkaline salt accumulation.
Managing Agricultural Value Chains in a Rapidly Urbanizing World
Authors: Batt Peter J.
Published: July 2022

For the first time in history, the majority of humankind now reside in an urban environment, with that figure expected to reach two thirds by 2050 [...]
Effect of Prepartum Dietary Energy Level on Production and Reproduction in Nili Ravi Buffaloes
Authors: Binyameen Muhammad , Khan Muhammad Irfan ur Rehman , Ul Haque Muhmmad Naveed , Azam Burhan E. , Kok Akke , Van Knegsel Ariette T. M. , Tahir Muhammad Zahid
Published: July 2022

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of prepartum dietary energy level on postpartum production and reproduction in Nili Ravi buffaloes (n = 21). The buffaloes were offered low energy (LE: 1.31 Mcal/kg DM NEL (net energy for lactation)), medium energy (ME: 1.42 Mcal/kg DM NEL) or high energy (HE: 1.54 Mcal/kg DM NEL) diet for 63 days prepartum, and received the same lactation diet (LD: 1.22 Mcal/kg DM NEL) during 14 weeks postpartum. The effects of dietary energy level and week were analyzed with Proc GLIMMIX model. Dry matter intake (DMI) was lower in buffaloes fed the LE diet compared with buffaloes fed the ME or HE diet. Calf birth weight (CBW) was higher in buffaloes fed the HE diet compared with buffaloes fed the ME or LE diet. Milk production was similar in buffaloes fed the HE, ME or LE diet within 14 weeks postpartum and throughout the lactation. Milk fat was higher in buffaloes fed the LE diet compared with buffaloes fed the ME or HE diet. Milk protein and lactose yields was high in buffaloes fed the HE diet compared with buffaloes fed the ME or LE diet. Body condition score was high in HE and was affected by diet × week interactions during pre and postpartum period. The concentrations of β-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA) and triglycerides in serum was lowest in buffaloes fed the HE diet compared with the buffaloes fed the ME or LE diet. The buffaloes fed the HE diet had early uterine involution (UI), first estrus, short dry days, and calving interval (CI) compared with buffaloes fed the ME or LE diet. None of buffaloes fed the LE diet exhibited estrus during the first 14 weeks postpartum compared with buffaloes fed the ME or HE diet. In conclusion, prepartum feeding of high energy diet can be helpful in improving the postpartum productive and reproductive performance in Nili Ravi buffaloes.
Velvet Antler Production and Hematological Changes in Male Sika Deers Fed with Spent Mushroom Substrate
Authors: Yuan Chongshan , Wu Min , Tahir Syed Muhammad , Chen Xinyuan , Li Changze , Zhang Aiwu , Lu Wenfa
Published: July 2022

At present, spent mushroom substrate (SMS) is a waste resource that is producing a pollution problem in China, and which has some use as animal feed or fertilizer, has not been assessed as a feed for deer. The purpose of this study is to expand the feed of male sika deer and reduce the feeding cost by using the waste resource of SMS. The 10% concentrated supplement was replaced with SMS and the feed intake, apparent digestibility, blood index and velvet production of male sika deer were measured. As the results showed, compared to the control group, the substitution of SMS for 10% of the concentrate supplement decreased the concentration of IgA (p < 0.01), replacing 10% concentrated supplement with SMS of Pleurotus ostreatus (SMS-MP) reduced the intake of organic matter (OMI) and improved the digestibility of ether extract (EE), while replacing 10% concentrated supplement with SMS of Flammulina velutipes (SMS-MF) had no effect on apparent nutrient digestibility, feed intake, velvet antler production, and biochemical indexes. In conclusion, SMS had no effect on serum biochemical indexes and the ratio of the feed weight of the deer supplement to the weight of velvet antler (p > 0.05). At the same time, SMS could reduce the feed consumption and improve the economy by using SMS as a waste resource.
Differential Responses of Digesta- and Mucosa-Associated Jejunal Microbiota of Hu Sheep to Pelleted and Non-Pelleted High-Grain Diets
Authors: Zhong Zhiqiang , Zhang Yuning , Li Xiaotong , Li Lingyun , Zhang Ruiyang , Zhang Shuyi
Published: July 2022

In the present study, we utilized 16S rRNA sequencing to uncover the impacts of non-pelleted (HG) or high-grain pelleted (HP) diets on the microbial structure and potential functions of digesta- and mucosa-associated microbiota in the jejunum of Hu sheep. Here, we randomly assigned 15 healthy male Hu sheep into three groups and fed the control diets (CON), HG, and HP diets, respectively. The experiment period was 60 days. The HP diets had the same nutritional ingredients as the HG diets but in pelleted form. At the finish of the experiment, the jejunal digesta and mucosa were gathered for microbial sequencing. The results of PCoA and PERMANOVA showed that different dietary treatments had significant impact (p < 0.05) on digesta- and mucosa-associated microbiota in the jejunum of Hu sheep. For specific differences, HG diets significantly increased (p < 0.05) the abundance of some acid-producing bacteria in both jejunal digesta (Bifidobacterium, OTU151, and OTU16) and mucosa (Rikenellaceae RC9 gut group, and Bifidobacterium) of Hu sheep compared with the CON diets. Besides the similar effects of the HG diets (increased the acid-producing bacteria such as Olsenella, Pseudoramibacter, and Shuttleworthia), our results also showed that the HP diets significantly decreased (p < 0.05) the abundance of some pro-inflammatory bacteria in the jejunal digesta (Mogibacterium, and Marvinbryantia) and mucosa (Chitinophaga, and Candidatus Saccharimonas) of Hu sheep compared with the HG diets. Collectively, these findings contributed to enriching the knowledge about the effects of HG diets on the structure and function of intestinal microbiota in ruminants.
Genotype VII.1.1-Based Newcastle Disease Virus Vaccines Afford Better Protection against Field Isolates in Commercial Broiler Chickens
Authors: Dewidar Abdelmonem A. A. , Kilany Walid H. , El-Sawah Azza A. , Shany Salama A. S. , Dahshan Al-Hussien M. , Hisham Islam , Elkady Magdy F. , Ali Ahmed
Published: July 2022

This study evaluated the efficacy of live and inactivated conventional GII LaSota and recombinant GVII Newcastle disease vaccines in commercial broilers. The experimental groups (G2–G7) were vaccinated on day 7 and day 21 of age with live vaccines from the same vaccine type “GII LaSota, GVII vaccine (A), GVII vaccine (B)” via eye drop; however, G3, G5, and G7 received a single dose from inactivated counterpart vaccines subcutaneously on day 7 of age. Vaccine efficacy was evaluated based on elicited humoral immunity, clinical protection, and reduction in virus shedding after challenge with virulent GVII 1.1. strain. Results demonstrated that live and inactivated recombinant GVII vaccine based on VG/GA strain backbone elicited superior protection parameters (100% protection). Although the conventional GII LaSota live and inactivated vaccination regime protected 93.3% of vaccinated birds, the virus shedding continued until 10 DPC. The post-vaccination serological monitoring was consistent with protection results. The study concludes that conventional GII ND vaccines alone are probably insufficient due to the current epidemiology of the GVII 1.1 NDV strains. Our findings further support that protection induced by recombinant GVII 1.1. ND vaccines are superior. Interestingly, the efficacy of recombinant ND vaccines seemed to be influenced by the backbone virus since the VG/GA backbone-based vaccine provided better protection and reduced virus shedding.
Can Insect Meal Replace Fishmeal? A Meta-Analysis of the Effects of Black Soldier Fly on Fish Growth Performances and Nutritional Values
Authors: Gougbedji Armel , Detilleux Johann , Lalèyè Philippe , Francis Frédéric , Caparros Megido Rudy
Published: July 2022

The search for quality alternatives to fishmeal and fish oil in the fish feed industry has occupied many researchers worldwide. The use of black soldier fly meal (BSFM) as a substitute has increased. This study evaluated the effect of this substitution on fish growth and nutritional quality through a meta-analysis of the literature. A list of studies was selected after an exhaustive literature search followed by the extraction of growth and nutritional parameters. Two random-effects models were used to estimate the differences between the experimental parameters and the controls. The results showed significant heterogeneity between studies for all parameters. The sources of heterogeneity between studies were mainly fish species and protein substitution rate. High substitutions can be considered without necessarily worrying about an adverse effect. Financial profitability studies of the fish production chain from BSFM should be carried out to validate or invalidate the economic viability of this substitution.
Ground Reaction Forces and Center of Pressure within the Paws When Stepping over Obstacles in Dogs
Authors: Charalambous Danae , Strasser Therese , Tichy Alexander , Bockstahler Barbara
Published: July 2022

Walking over obstacles is a widely used physiotherapy exercise in dogs. Current research is limited to the effect of this exercise in kinematics and muscle activation in dogs. The present study assessed the influence of walking over obstacles on the ground reaction forces (GRFs) and center of pressure (COP) in dogs. Data of dogs walking over one and two obstacles over a pressure platform were retrospectively analyzed and compared to normal walking. Walking over one obstacle did not affect the GRFs and COP of the forelimbs; however, significant changes were observed for the hindlimbs, especially the leading hindlimb. Walking over two obstacles caused significant changes to only one value at the forelimbs, whereas multiple significant changes in the GRFs and COP values were observed at the hindlimbs. Walking over obstacles seems to be challenging even for healthy adult dogs. Further studies are needed to investigate how different heights of obstacles and distances between them can further challenge the animals. The combination of kinetics and kinematics during walking over obstacles may be used in future as a diagnostic tool in geriatric and neurological patients in order to assess their proprioception awareness or to assess the improvement after an intervention, e.g., physiotherapy treatment.
Antifungal-Loaded Acrylic Bone Cement in the Treatment of Periprosthetic Hip and Knee Joint Infections: A Review
Authors: Anagnostakos Konstantinos , Becker Sören L. , Sahan Ismail
Published: July 2022

Little is known about the clinical use of antifungal-loaded acrylic bone cement in the treatment of periprosthetic hip and knee joint infections (PJIs). Hence, we performed a literature search using PubMed/MEDLINE from inception until December 2021. Search terms were “cement” in combination with 13 antifungal agents. A total of 10 published reports were identified, which described 11 patients and 12 joints in which antifungal-loaded cement was employed. All studies were case reports or case series, and no randomized controlled trials were identified. In 6 of 11 patients, predisposing comorbidities regarding the emergence of a fungal PJI were present. The majority of the studies reported on infections caused by Candida species. In six cases (seven joints), the cement was solely impregnated with an antifungal, but no antibiotic agent (amphotericin B, voriconazole, and fluconazole). In the other five joints, the cement was impregnated with both antibiotic(s) and antifungals. Great discrepancies were seen regarding the exact loading dose. Four studies investigated the local elution of antifungal agents in the early postoperative period and observed a local release of antifungals in vivo. We conclude that there is a paucity of data pertaining to the clinical use of antifungal-loaded bone cement, and no studies have assessed the clinical efficacy of such procedures. Future studies are urgently required to evaluate this use of antifungals in PJI.
Antimicrobial Stewardship in Public-Sector Hospitals in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Authors: Chetty Sarentha , Reddy Millidhashni , Ramsamy Yogandree , Dlamini Vusi C. , Reddy-Naidoo Rahendhree , Essack Sabiha Y.
Published: July 2022

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a serious global public-health threat. Evidence suggests that antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) is a valuable tool to facilitate rational antibiotic use within healthcare facilities. A cross-sectional situational analysis using a questionnaire was conducted to determine the current status of antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) activities in all public-sector hospitals in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). The survey had a 79% (57, N = 72) response rate. A total of 75% of hospitals had an antimicrobial stewardship committee (AMSC), 47% (20, N = 43) had a formal written statement of support from leadership, and 7% (3, N = 43) had budgeted financial support. Only 37% (16, N = 43) had on-site or off-site support from a clinical microbiologist, and 5% (2, N = 43) had an on-site infectious disease (ID) physician. Microbiologist input on pathogen surveillance data (aOR: 5.12; 95% CI: 4.08–22.02; p-value = 0.001) and microbiological investigations prior to the commencement of antibiotics (aOR: 5.12; 95% CI: 1.08–42.01; p-value = 0.041) were significantly associated with having either on- or off-site microbiology support. Respondents that had a representative from microbiology on the AMSC were significantly associated with having and interrogating facility-specific antibiograms (P = 0.051 and P = 0.036, respectively). Those facilities that had access to a microbiologist were significantly associated with producing an antibiogram (aOR: 4.80; 95% CI: 1.25–18.42; p-value = 0.022). Facilities with an ID physician were significantly associated with having a current antibiogram distributed to prescribers within the facility (P = 0.010) and significantly associated with sending prescribers personalized communication regarding improving prescribing (P = 0.044). Common challenges reported by the facilities included suboptimal hospital management support; a lack of clinicians, pharmacists, nurses, microbiologists, and dedicated time; the lack of a multidisciplinary approach; low clinician buy-in; inadequate training; a lack of printed antibiotic guidelines; and financial restrictions for microbiological investigations. The survey identified the need for financial, IT, and management support. Microbiology and infectious disease physicians were recognized as scarce human resources.
From Intestinal Epithelial Homeostasis to Colorectal Cancer: Autophagy Regulation in Cellular Stress
Authors: Liu Qiuluo , Chen Yan , Zhou Li , Chen Haining , Zhou Zongguang
Published: July 2022

The intestinal epithelium is continuously exposed to abundant stress stimuli, which relies on an evolutionarily conserved process, autophagy, to maintain its homeostasis by degrading and recycling unwanted and damaged intracellular substances. Otherwise, disruption of this balance will result in the development of a wide range of disorders, including colorectal cancer (CRC). Dysregulated autophagy is implicated in the regulation of cellular responses to stress during the development, progression, and treatment of CRC. However, experimental investigations addressing the impact of autophagy in different phases of CRC have generated conflicting results, showing that autophagy is context-dependently related to CRC. Thus, both inhibition and activation of autophagy have been proposed as therapeutic strategies against CRC. Here, we will discuss the multifaceted role of autophagy in intestinal homeostasis and CRC, which may provide insights for future research directions.
Effects of Toxic Heavy Metal Salts on Oxidative Quality Deterioration in Ground Pork Model during Aerobic Display Storage
Authors: Ham Youn-Kyung , Song Dong-Heon , Kim Hyun-Wook
Published: July 2022

The contamination of toxic heavy metals in meat production and processing can cause the oxidative deterioration of processed meat products. Aside from the possible mechanisms of toxic heavy metals on pro-oxidative reaction, little is known about the potential impacts of toxic heavy metal contamination on meat quality attributes within permitted maximum residual levels. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the influence of the intentional contamination of toxic heavy metals on the oxidative deterioration in ground pork models during aerobic display storage. Four types of toxic heavy metal salts (As2O3, CdCl2, K2Cr2O7, and Pb(NO3)2) were mixed with ground pork at two different levels (maximum residue limit and its half level), PVC-wrapped, and displayed in a 4 °C showcase equipped with continuous fluorescent natural white light (1400 l×, color temperature = 6500 K). The contamination of toxic heavy metals significantly decreased the redness of ground pork, and rapidly increased the hue angle. The contamination of Cd and Cr equivalent to maximum residue levels (0.05 and 1.0 mg/kg, respectively) could increase the formation of peroxides, 2-thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, and carbonyls, along with an immediate decrease in total reducing activity. However, there was no difference in protein thiol content between treatments (p > 0.05). These results indicate that contamination of certain toxic heavy metals, particularly Cd and Cr, would accelerate discoloration, lipid oxidation, and carbonyl formation of ground pork during aerobic storage.
Light Intensity- and Spectrum-Dependent Redox Regulation of Plant Metabolism
Authors: Borbély Péter , Gasperl Anna , Pálmai Tamás , Ahres Mohamed , Asghar Muhammad Ahsan , Galiba Gábor , Müller Maria , Kocsy Gábor
Published: July 2022

Both light intensity and spectrum (280–800 nm) affect photosynthesis and, consequently, the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) during photosynthetic electron transport. ROS, together with antioxidants, determine the redox environment in tissues and cells, which in turn has a major role in the adjustment of metabolism to changes in environmental conditions. This process is very important since there are great spatial (latitude, altitude) and temporal (daily, seasonal) changes in light conditions which are accompanied by fluctuations in temperature, water supply, and biotic stresses. The blue and red spectral regimens are decisive in the regulation of metabolism because of the absorption maximums of chlorophylls and the sensitivity of photoreceptors. Based on recent publications, photoreceptor-controlled transcription factors such as ELONGATED HYPOCOTYL5 (HY5) and changes in the cellular redox environment may have a major role in the coordinated fine-tuning of metabolic processes during changes in light conditions. This review gives an overview of the current knowledge of the light-associated redox control of basic metabolic pathways (carbon, nitrogen, amino acid, sulphur, lipid, and nucleic acid metabolism), secondary metabolism (terpenoids, flavonoids, and alkaloids), and related molecular mechanisms. Light condition-related reprogramming of metabolism is the basis for proper growth and development of plants; therefore, its better understanding can contribute to more efficient crop production in the future.
Content of Phenolic Acids as a Marker of Polish Honey Varieties and Relationship with Selected Honey-Quality-Influencing Variables
Authors: Puścion-Jakubik Anna , Karpińska Elżbieta , Moskwa Justyna , Socha Katarzyna
Published: July 2022

Phenolic acids are an important component of honey. Literature data indicate their pro-health properties and diversified content in different varieties. Therefore, the aim of our study was to evaluate the content of phenolic acids in bee honey. The material for the research was 49 samples of honey obtained from beekeepers from Poland. Selected phenolic acids were determined by HPLC with PDA detection. Additionally, total phenolic content (TPC), color intensity, color on the Pfund scale, water content, electrical conductivity, and FRAP were assessed. A higher trans-ferulic acid content is accompanied by a stronger free radical scavenging ability. It was shown that buckwheat honeys are characterized by a high TPC value (196.59 mg GAE/100 g), color intensity (2109.2 mAU), color on the Pfund scale (159.8 mm Pfund), and high activity in the FRAP assay (0.403 equivalent of µmol Fe2+/mL). The median obtained in the DPPH test for this honey variety was 41.1%. Moreover, the highest median of 4-hydroxybenzoic acid (3.129 mg/100 g) in buckwheat honey was shown. Buckwheat honeys have promising antioxidant properties and should be included in diets low in antioxidants.
Mangifera indica L. Leaves as a Potential Food Source of Phenolic Compounds with Biological Activity
Authors: Sferrazzo Giuseppe , Palmeri Rosa , Restuccia Cristina , Parafati Lucia , Siracusa Laura , Spampinato Mariarita , Carota Giuseppe , Distefano Alfio , Di Rosa Michelino , Tomasello Barbara , Costantino Angelita , Gulisano Massimo , Li Volti Giovanni , Barbagallo Ignazio
Published: July 2022

It is well recognized that functional foods rich in antioxidants and antiinflammation agents including polyphenols, probiotics/prebiotics, and bioactive compounds have been found to have positive effects on the aging process. In particular, fruits play an important role in regular diet, promoting good health and longevity. In this study, we investigated on biological properties of extract obtained from Mangifera indica L. leaves in preclinical in vitro models. Specifically, the profile and content of bioactive compounds, the antimicrobial potential toward food spoilage and pathogenic bacterial species, and the eventually protective effect in inflammation were examined. Our findings revealed that MLE was rich in polyphenols, showing a content exclusively in the subclass of benzophenone/xanthone metabolites, and these phytochemical compounds demonstrated the highest antioxidant capacity and greatest in vitro antibacterial activity toward different bacterial species such as Bacillus cereus, B. subtilis, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Staphylococcus aureus, and St. haemolyticus. Furthermore, our data showed an in vitro anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antifibrotic activity.
Influence of 5-Week Snack Supplementation with the Addition of Gelatin Hydrolysates from Carp Skins on Pro-Oxidative and Antioxidant Balance Disturbances (TOS, TAS) in a Group of Athletes
Authors: Morawska-Tota Małgorzata , Tota Łukasz , Tkaczewska Joanna
Published: July 2022

The research objective was to assess the effects of 5-week snack supplementation with added enzymatic hydrolysates from carp skins on shifts in pro-oxidative and antioxidant balance among athletes. The study comprised 49 adults (experimental group (E)—17, placebo (P)—16, control (C)—16) practicing endurance disciplines. Selected somatic indices and maximal oxygen uptake/m (VO2max) were measured. Based on VO2max, an individual exercise intensity was selected with predominating eccentric contractions (60% VO2max). The conducted tests consisted of 2 series (1st—graded and eccentric, 2nd—eccentric). The experimental group consumed a snack with added gelatin hydrolysates from carp skins for 5 weeks in between the series, the placebo—a snack without added hydrolysates, and in the control—no supplementation was implemented. Blood samples were taken before, and 1, 24 and 48 h after completion of the eccentric test. TAS and TOC concentrations in the blood plasma were assessed. No significant changes in TOS/TOC and TAS/TAC concentrations were noted between the 1st and the 2nd test series, before or following the eccentric test in the control and placebo groups. In the measurements performed 1, 24 and 48 h after completion, the observed differences were highly significant (p < 0.001). After 5 weeks of snack consumption, an increase from medium to high antioxidant potential was observed for E. Differences between the 1st and the 2nd test series were of high statistical significance (p < 0.001). The demonstrated differences in pro-oxidative-antioxidant balance indices between successive series allow to confirm antioxidant effects and indicate possibilities for its implementation, not only in sports.
An Accurate UAV Ground Landing Station System Based on BLE-RSSI and Maximum Likelihood Target Position Estimation
Authors: Avilés-Viñas Jaime , Carrasco-Alvarez Roberto , Vázquez-Castillo Javier , Ortegón-Aguilar Jaime , Estrada-López Johan J. , Jensen Daniel D. , Peón-Escalante Ricardo , Castillo-Atoche Alejandro
Published: July 2022

Earth observation with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) offers an extraordinary opportunity to bridge the gap between field observations and traditional air and space-borne remote sensing. In this regard, ground landing stations (GLS) systems play a central role to increase the time and area coverage of UAV missions. Bluetooth low energy (BLE) technology and the received signal strength indicator (RSSI) techniques have been proposed for target location during UAV landing. However, these RSSI-based techniques present a lack of precision due to the propagation medium characteristics, which leads to UAV position vagueness. In this sense, the development of a novel low-cost GLS system for UAV tracking and landing is proposed. The GLS system has been embodied for the purpose of testing the UAV landing navigation capability. The maximum likelihood estimator (MLE) algorithm is addressed on an embedded microcontroller for the position estimation based on the RSSI acquired from an array of BLE devices. Experimental results demonstrate the feasibility and accuracy of the ground landing station system, achieving average errors of less than 0.04 m with the UAV-MLE target position estimation approach. This 0.04 m distance represents an order of magnitude increase in location precision over other currently available solutions. In many cases, this increased precision can enable more innovative docking mechanisms, less likelihood of mishaps in docking, and also quicker docking. It may also facilitate docking procedures where the docking station is itself moving, which may be the case if the docking unit is a mobile ground rover.
Effects of Tractor and Soil Parameters on the Depth of the Permanent Traffic Lanes in Controlled Traffic Farming Systems
Authors: Bulgakov Volodymyr , Pascuzzi Simone , Nadykto Volodymyr , Adamchuk Valerii , Kaminskiy Viktor , Kyurchev Volodymyr , Santoro Francesco
Published: July 2022

One of the basic requirements for controlled traffic farming (CTF) is the precise motion of all agricultural equipment on permanent traffic lanes (PTL). Tractors of machine-tractor units are then equipped with a GNSS (global navigation satellite) RTK (real-time kinematic) system, even though in many parts of the world, and Europe as well, satellite navigation is not yet used. In this case, for implementation of the CTF system, it needs to lay such PTL tracks that would be sufficiently visible, especially when using the CTF system in multi-year agricultural crop cultivation. The PTL track depth is influenced by both tractor and soil parameters and, in this paper, this influence is studied considering the dimensionless π-terms of the similarity theory. To obtain a greater depth of PTL tracks (h), the soil cone index must be low. The low density of the soil is important, even if its effect on the parameter h is less than that of the soil cone index. A greater depth of PTL tracks is also obtained by increasing the inflation pressure in the tractor tires. Ballasted wheels are the least effective for increasing the value of the parameter h.
Low-Cost Three-Quadrant Single Solar Cell I-V Tracer
Authors: Morales-Aragonés José Ignacio , Gómez Víctor Alonso , Gallardo-Saavedra Sara , Redondo-Plaza Alberto , Fernández-Martínez Diego , Hernández-Callejo Luis
Published: July 2022

An I-V curve measurement technique is one of the most important techniques available for characterising photovoltaic cells. Measuring an accurate I-V curve at the single-cell level is a challenging task because of the low voltages and high currents implied, requiring the management of very low impedances. In this paper, the authors propose a low-cost device for I-V curve measurements of single (or small amounts) of cells in a series based on the charge transfer between two capacitors of equal capacitance. Our measurement strategy allows us to trace the usual first quadrant curve (the normal working region of solar cells) as well as the second and fourth quadrants of the I-V curve, which are quite important for research purposes. A prototype was built to demonstrate the feasibility and successful measurements of the three-quadrant I-V curve, obtained for more than 20 different cells. To use the device in a laboratory, without depending on the solar irradiation, a modular platform was 3D-printed, integrating a board with infrared LEDs as irradiating devices, and housing (to place the solar cell under test). The result is a useful low-cost setup for three-quadrant I-V curve tracing that works as expected.
Anisotropic Heat Transfer in Plane of Carbon Fabrics Reinforced Geopolymer Composite
Authors: Samal Sneha
Published: July 2022

Heat transfer within carbon fiber in the geopolymer composite is predicted from parallel in phase to a perpendicular direction within the fabrics. Temperature distribution is higher along the fiber axis with a perpendicular position. The use of curvilinear coordinates along the fiber axis are useful in estimating thermal conductivity within the geopolymer composite theoretically. Experimental findings are also carried out in carbon fiber reinforced geopolymer composite. It has been observed that thermal conductivity has remained constant throughout the composite as a function of temperature. A correlation has been established that shows the heat transfer in the composite falls within the standard range of the specification of insulating materials. This study offers insights and a possible strategy for the development of an anisotropic low-thermal-conductivity geopolymer composite for potential applications in insulating material systems.