bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The frequency and risk factors of major complications after thermal ablation of liver tumours in 2,084 ablation sessions
Authors: Huang Qiannan , Pang Mengya , Zeng Qingjing , He Xuqi , Zheng Rongqin , Ge Mian , Li Kai
Published: September 2022

Background

To assess the frequency of major complications after thermal ablation of liver tumours and to determine risk factors for adverse events.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted between January 2015 and January 2021. A total of 2,084 thermal ablation sessions in 1,592 patients with primary and metastatic liver tumours were evaluated. The frequency of major complications was evaluated according to the Society of Interventional Radiology Standards, and putative predictors of adverse events were analysed using simple and multivariate logistic regression.

Results

Thermal ablation-related mortality was 0.1% (2/2,084), with an overall major complication rate of 5.6% (117/2,084). The most frequent major complication was symptomatic pleural effusion (2.9%, 60/2,084). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that a total maximum diameter of lesions >3 cm, microwave ablation (MWA) and MWA combined with radiofrequency ablation, intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma and postoperative systemic inflammatory response syndrome were independent prognostic factors for major complications.

Conclusions

Thermal ablation of liver tumours is a safe procedure with an acceptable incidence of major complications. The risk factors identified in this study will help to stratify high-risk patients.
Skin grafting treatment of adolescent lower limb avulsion injury
Authors: Yang Liu , Guo Jiachao , He Jinpeng , Shao Jingfan
Published: September 2022

Background

Under the influence of various factors, the number of lower extremity avulsion injuries in adolescents is increasing year by year. The main modality of treatment is skin grafting. There are many types of skin grafting. Although many studies on skin grafting after avulsion injuries have been published in the past few decades, there are differences in the treatment options for adolescents with post avulsion injuries.

Main body

Thorough debridement and appropriate skin grafts are essential for the surgical management of avulsion injuries for optimal prognosis. In the acquisition of grafts, progress has been made in equipment for how to obtain different depths of skin. The severity of the avulsion injury varies among patients on admission, and therefore the manner and type of skin grafting will vary. Especially in adolescents, graft survival and functional recovery are of great concern to both patients and physicians. Therefore, many efforts have been made to improve survival rate and activity.

Conclusion

This review summarizes the principles of treatment of avulsion injuries, the historical development of skin grafts, and the selection of skin grafts, hoping to be helpful for future research.
Neurological deterioration after posterior fossa decompression for adult syringomyelia: Proposal for a summarized treatment algorithm
Authors: Yuan Chenghua , Guan Jian , Du Yueqi , Fang Zeyu , Wang Xinyu , Yao Qingyu , Zhang Can , Liu Zhenlei , Wang Kai , Duan Wanru , Wang Xingwen , Wang Zuowei , Wu Hao , Jian Fengzeng
Published: September 2022

Background

Patients with syringomyelia who present with new neurological symptoms after posterior fossa decompression (PFD) are not uncommon. However, systematic reports on different pathologies are few in the literature.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to summarize our experience for failed PFD.

Methods

Between January 2015 and December 2019, 85 consecutive failed PFD patients were identified. The neurological courses were summarized with Klekamp J (KJ) or mJOA score system for all patients. Long-term results were summarized with Kaplan-Meier method.

Results

Twenty-eight consecutive patients underwent FMDD (Foramen magnum and foramen of Magendie dredging) (Group I), extradural PFD and manipulation of tonsil was significantly associated with lower failure rates. Twenty patients underwent craniocervical fixation (Group II), nine underwent local spinal segment decompression (Group III), six underwent CSF diversion procedures, and one were treated for persistent pain by radiofrequency. Neuropathic pain was most significantly improved in Group I while swallowing improved in Group II within 1 year after the surgery. In the long term, late postoperative deterioration-free possibility in Group II was better than in Group I. All patients in Group III improved (P = 0.0088). Six cases of CSF diversion procedures were relieved in a short time. Pain in one patient persisted after PFD, and trial of radiofrequency failed.

Conclusion

Not only does the recurrent cerebrospinal fluid flow obstruct the foramen magnum, but also spinal pathologies and craniocervical instabilities may occur. This study provides the largest summarized clinical experience that may assist surgeons with different therapeutic decisions for failed PFD.
Analysis of circRNA expression in chicken HD11 cells in response to avian pathogenic E.coli
Authors: Sun Hongyan , Yang Yexin , Ma Yuyi , Li Nayin , Tan Jishuang , Sun Changhua , Li Huan
Published: September 2022

Avian pathogenic E. coli (APEC), one of the widespread zoonotic-pathogen, can cause a series of diseases collectively known as colibacillosis. This disease can cause thousands of million dollars economic loss each year in poultry industry and threaten to human health via meat or egg contamination. However, the detailed molecular mechanism underlying APEC infection is still not fully understood. Circular RNAs, a new type of endogenous noncoding RNA, have been demonstrated to involve in various biological processes. However, it is still not clear whether the circRNAs participate in host response against APEC infection. Herein, we utilized the high-throughput sequence technology to identify the circRNA expression profiles in APEC infected HD11 cells. A total of 49 differentially expressed (DE) circRNAs were detected in the comparison of APEC infected HD11 cells vs. wild type HD11 cells, which were involved in MAPK signaling pathway, Endocytosis, Focal adhesion, mTOR signaling pathway, and VEGF signaling pathway. Specifically, the source genes (BRAF, PPP3CB, BCL2L13, RAB11A, and TSC2) and their corresponding DE circRNAs may play a significant role in APEC infection. Moreover, based on ceRNA regulation, we constructed the circRNA-miRNA network and identified a couple of important regulatory relationship pairs related to APEC infection, including circRAB11A-gga-miR-125b-3p, circRAB11A-gga-miR-1696, and circTSC2-gga-miR-1649-5p. Results indicate that the aforementioned specific circRNAs and circRNA-miRNA network might have important role in regulating host immune response against APEC infection. This study is the first time to investigate the circRNAs expression profile and the biological function of the source genes of the identified DE circRNAs after APEC infection of chicken HD11 cells. These results would contribute to a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms in host response against APEC infection.
Recoverability of Diabetic Nephropathy of Donor Kidney After Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Lee Kyo Won , Sim Jongmin , Park Sean S. W. , Jeon Junseok , Kim Gyuri , Kim Min Jung , Kwon Ghee Young , Jang Hye Ryoun , Huh Wooseong , Park Jae Berm
Published: September 2022

Some kidney donors have diabetes, and little of their natural course of diabetic nephropathy (DN) is known. The aim of this study was to analyze the changes in pathologic lesions in the diabetic donor kidney after KT by performing protocol biopsy two weeks and one year after KT. This retrospective study included 103 patients who underwent KT, with kidneys from donors with a history of diabetes mellitus (DM). Among them, data of 34 patients who underwent biopsy two weeks and one year after KT were reviewed. Biopsy specimens were reviewed using light microscopy and electron microscopy. Glomerular basement membrane (GBM) thickness at 2 weeks and 1 year was compared. Biopsy showed that DN occurred in 29 of the 34 patients. Only trivial histological changes were observed in 22 patients (64.7%), including 5 patients who did not show DN. At one year after transplantation, there was no change in the DN histologic class in 26 patients (76.5%), and there was no statistically significant difference in the change in GBM thickness. This pattern was observed regardless of the recipient’s DM or glycemic control. With this understanding, clinicians can use kidneys from DM donors with more comfort, thereby reducing the kidney discard rate.
Impact of Government Support, Business Style, and Entrepreneurial Sustainability on Business Location of SMEs in South Africa’s Mpumalanga Province
Authors: Ogujiuba Kanayo K. , Olamide Ebenezer , Agholor Azikiwe Isaac , Boshoff Estelle , Semosa Phetole
Published: September 2022

Finance, incubation, managerial support initiatives, and technological innovation have all been identified as major drivers of SMEs’ business location. Despite the importance of SMEs, little attention has been paid to business research regarding the impact of government support, business style, and entrepreneurial sustainability on SME activities in rural, semi-urban, and urban areas. Identifying the necessary support for SMEs in rural, semi-urban, and urban areas is critical for the government as well as stakeholders and SME owners in assessing their survival status and other goal-setting achievements. The article’s central question is whether government support, business style, and entrepreneurship sustainability affect SME operations differently depending on location (rural, semi-urban, or urban). The MANOVA technique was used for the analysis to determine whether there is a significant difference between groups on a composite dependent variable as well as the univariate results for each dependent variable separately. Because conducting a series of studies (ANOVA) reveals the possibility of an inflated Type 1 error, MANOVA is preferred. The test re-test reliability method (trustworthiness assessment of the questionnaire) and the Cronbach Alpha test (internal consistency of instrument sections) yielded satisfactory results of 0.70 and 0.875, respectively. Government support (GS), business style (BS), and entrepreneurial sustainability were used as dependent variables (SE). The independent variable was the business location. On the combined dependent variables, there was a statistically significant difference between SME location: F (3, 902) = 20.388, p = 0.001, Wilks’ Lambda = 0.88, partial eta squared = 0.06. When the results for the dependent variables were considered separately, they all reached statistical significance, using a Bonferroni adjusted alpha level of 0.017. BS: F (1, 904) = 13.29, p ≤ 001, partial eta squared = 0.03. GS: F (1, 904) = 30.28, p ≤ 0.001, partial eta squared = 0.06. SE: F (1, 904) = 8.08, p ≤ 0.001, partial eta squared = 0.02. The findings show that locational effects on government support have a knock-on effect on the business plan and long-term entrepreneurship. As a result, the government must reconsider its rural activities to ensure that support is distributed equitably across levels of location.
Towards a Real-Time Oil Palm Fruit Maturity System Using Supervised Classifiers Based on Feature Analysis
Authors: Alfatni Meftah Salem M. , Khairunniza-Bejo Siti , Marhaban Mohammad Hamiruce B. , Saaed Osama M. Ben , Mustapha Aouache , Shariff Abdul Rashid Mohamed
Published: September 2022

Remote sensing sensors-based image processing techniques have been widely applied in non-destructive quality inspection systems of agricultural crops. Image processing and analysis were performed with computer vision and external grading systems by general and standard steps, such as image acquisition, pre-processing and segmentation, extraction and classification of image characteristics. This paper describes the design and implementation of a real-time fresh fruit bunch (FFB) maturity classification system for palm oil based on unrestricted remote sensing (CCD camera sensor) and image processing techniques using five multivariate techniques (statistics, histograms, Gabor wavelets, GLCM and BGLAM) to extract fruit image characteristics and incorporate information on palm oil species classification FFB and maturity testing. To optimize the proposed solution in terms of performance reporting and processing time, supervised classifiers, such as support vector machine (SVM), K-nearest neighbor (KNN) and artificial neural network (ANN), were performed and evaluated via ROC and AUC measurements. The experimental results showed that the FFB classification system of non-destructive palm oil maturation in real time provided a significant result. Although the SVM classifier is generally a robust classifier, ANN has better performance due to the natural noise of the data. The highest precision was obtained on the basis of the ANN and BGLAM algorithms applied to the texture of the fruit. In particular, the robust image processing algorithm based on BGLAM feature extraction technology and the ANN classifier largely provided a high AUC test accuracy of over 93% and an image-processing time of 0,44 (s) for the detection of FFB palm oil species.
Long-Term Impact of Genomic Selection on Genetic Gain Using Different SNP Density
Authors: Zheng Xu , Zhang Tianliu , Wang Tianzhen , Niu Qunhao , Wu Jiayuan , Wang Zezhao , Gao Huijiang , Li Junya , Xu Lingyang
Published: September 2022

Genomic selection (GS) has been widely used in livestock breeding. However, the long-term impact of GS on genetic gain, as well as inbreeding levels, has not been fully explored in beef cattle. In this study, we carried out simulation analysis using different approaches involving two types of SNP density (54 K and 100 K) and three levels of heritability traits (h2 = 0.1, 0.3, and 0.5) to explore the long-term effects of selection strategies on genetic gain and average kinship coefficients. Our results showed that GS can improve the genetic gain across generations, and the GBLUP strategy showed slightly better performance than the BayesA model. Higher trait heritability can generate higher genetic gain in all scenarios. Moreover, simulation results using GBLUP and BayesA strategies showed higher average kinship coefficients compared with other strategies. Our study suggested that it is important to design GS strategies by considering the SNP density and trait heritability to achieve long-term and sustainable genetic gain and to effectively control inbreeding levels.
Effects of Organic Fertilization Rates on Surface Water Nitrogen and Phosphorus Concentrations in Paddy Fields
Authors: Liu Mingqing , Wu Yuncheng , Huang Sijie , Yang Yuwen , Li Yan , Wang Lei , Xi Yunguan , Zhang Jibing , Chen Qiuhui
Published: September 2022

Inappropriate organic fertilizer application may cause serious environmental risks, especially nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) losses. To achieve a win–win for high yield and environmental protection in organic agriculture, it was essential to demonstrate the relationship between the organic fertilizer input, rice yields, and risks of N and P losses. Based on a rice and green manure cropping rotation field experiment in the Yangtze River Delta of China, the effects of organic fertilization rates on the dynamics of surface water N and P concentrations and rice grain yields were determined. The results showed that the N (total N, ammonium-nitrogen, nitrate-nitrogen) and P (total P and dissolved P) concentrations in surface water immediately and greatly reached the highest values 1 day after basal fertilization and topdressing fertilization. Then, the N and P concentrations sharply decreased and were maintained at a relatively low level. The initial 3 and 7 days after organic fertilization were the high-risk periods for controlling N and P runoff losses. The surface water N and P concentrations had a positive correlation with the organic fertilization rate in high-risk periods. Besides, the effects of organic fertilization on surface water P concentrations existed longer than those of N concentrations. The rice grain yields increased with the increase in organic fertilization rates, but high organic fertilizer input (>225 kg N per hectare) did not increase the grain yield. Meanwhile, the high organic fertilizer input had the highest risks for N and P losses. Therefore, in organic rice farming, organic fertilization rates with 150~200 kg N per hectare are the optimal organic fertilizer input, with relatively high grain yields and low N and P losses.
Improved Lightweight Mango Sorting Model Based on Visualization
Authors: Wei Hongyu , Chen Wenyue , Zhu Lixue , Chu Xuan , Liu Hongli , Mu Yinghui , Ma Zhiyu
Published: September 2022

Neural networks are widely used in fruit sorting and have achieved some success. However, due to the limitations of storage space and power consumption, the storage and computing of a neural network model on embedded devices remain a massive challenge. Aiming at realizing a lightweight mango sorting model, the feature-extraction characteristics of the shallow and deep networks of the SqueezeNet model were analyzed by a visualization method, and then eight lightweight models were constructed by removing redundant layers or modifying the convolution kernel. It was found that the model designated Model 4 performed well after training and testing. The class activation mapping method was used to explain the basis of the classification decision, and the model was compared with ten classical classification models. The results showed that the calculation performance of the model was significantly improved without reducing accuracy. The parameter storage requirement is 0.87 MB, and the calculation amount is 181 MFLOPS, while the average classification accuracy can still be maintained at 95.64%. This model has a high-cost performance and can be widely used in embedded devices.
Analysis of the Sustainability Level of Smallholder Oil Palm Agribusiness in Labuhanbatu Regency, North Sumatra
Authors: Suardi Tennisya Febriyanti , Sulistyowati Lies , Noor Trisna Insan , Setiawan Iwan
Published: September 2022

Palm oil is a leading export commodity for Indonesia and the country’s highest foreign exchange earner. This commodity also has a fairly important role in the economy in regions in Indonesia, especially in Labuhanbatu Regency as one of the centers of oil palm production in the Sumatran Archipelago. This study aimed to analyze the level of sustainability of smallholder oil palm agribusiness in Labuhanbatu Regency. The study was designed using quantitative methods and a proportionate stratified random sampling approach with 249 oil palm farmers as research respondents. The data were analyzed using the multi dimensional scaling (MDS) method assisted by the Rap—Palm Oil (RAPPO) software (version 1.0). The results showed that the multidimensional sustainability of the smallholder oil palm agribusiness in Labuhanbatu Regency was in the “fairly sustainable” category. This illustrates that the oil palm agribusiness needs stakeholder support to improve its sustainability status. The highest value is the economic dimension because it is the main source of livelihood for oil palm farmers, while the lowest value is the environmental dimension. The value obtained was influenced by the use of production inputs that were not in accordance with the recommendations.
Intentions of Farmers to Renew Productive Agricultural Service Contracts Using the Theory of Planned Behavior: An Empirical Study in Northeastern China
Authors: Xu Yuxuan , Lyu Jie , Xue Ying , Liu Hongbin
Published: September 2022

Maintaining stable linkages between farmers and APS service providers is conducive to cutting transaction costs, increasing service organizations’ willingness to invest in the long term and motivation to innovate on their own, improving agricultural production and resource use efficiency, and safeguarding farmers’ welfare and national food security. The willingness of farmers to renew their contracts is a key factor in long-term APS partnerships. Based on research data from the Northeast region in 2018, this study uses the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) to construct a two-stage decision-making framework for the contracting-renewal and to determine how the process influences the formation of willingness. The Heckman two-stage model is applied. The results indicate that the mechanism of farmers’ willingness to renew APS is formed in accordance with TPB’s conceptual analysis framework with the dual logic of “stimulus” and “constraint”. In the first stage, individual and family characteristics have a significant influence on farmers’ contracting behavior. In the second stage, three exogenous latent variables, behavioral attitudes, perceived behavioral control, and subjective norms, have a better explanatory role in the formation of farmers’ willingness to renew APS. The stronger the perceived control that is generated by farmers during the decision-making process, the more pronounced the behavioral attitudes were, and the stronger the inducement of willingness to renew the service. The findings suggest that governments should strengthen APS outreach and improve the regional economy and natural environment. Overall, this study helps to uncover the farmer’s TPB mechanism and provide an empirical basis for how to promote APS development.
Effects of Zinc Fertilization on Grain Cadmium Accumulation, Gene Expression, and Essential Mineral Partitioning in Rice
Authors: Tavarez Michael , Grusak Michael A. , Sankaran Renuka P.
Published: September 2022

Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic heavy metal that can cause severe health issues if ingested. Certain varieties of rice can accumulate high levels of the metal in edible tissues thereby transferring the toxin into the food chain. As chemical analogs, interactions between the essential mineral zinc and the toxic heavy metal cadmium play an important role in regulating the transport of both minerals to rice grains. Understanding these interactions is crucial for limiting cadmium and increasing zinc transfer to the food chain. Previous studies have reported conflicting results suggesting synergistic and antagonistic relationships between the minerals. The goal of this work was to identify the effect of external cadmium and zinc on the uptake and translocation of both minerals from roots to grains of rice that differ in grain cadmium concentrations. The results showed that a higher input of external zinc increased cadmium translocation and accumulation to the grain in two of three varieties, while external cadmium does not influence zinc accumulation. Cadmium synergy and antagonism with other essential minerals were also examined and the effects differed between rice lines. Our results showed that the differential expression of the transport proteins OsNramp5, OsHMA2, and OsHMA3 as well as genes involved in the synthesis of glutathione and phytochelatin could have contributed to differences in grain Cd accumulation. These results add to the knowledge of cadmium and zinc partitioning in one of the most consumed plant foods in the world and can assist fortification efforts to establish rice lines that are both safe and nutritious.
LAMP Coupled CRISPR-Cas12a Module for Rapid, Sensitive and Visual Detection of Porcine Circovirus 2
Authors: Lei Lei , Liao Fan , Tan Lei , Duan Deyong , Zhan Yang , Wang Naidong , Wang Yuge , Peng Xiaoye , Wang Kaixin , Huang Xiaojiu , Yang Yi , Wang Aibing
Published: September 2022

Porcine circovirus 2 (PCV2) is the main pathogen of porcine circovirus-associated disease (PCVAD), which can cause considerable economic loss to the pig industry. The diagnosis of PCVAD is complicated and requires a series of clinical, pathological, and virological methods. Therefore, a rapid, highly sensitive, on-site, and visual diagnostic approach would facilitate dealing with the spread of PCV2. In this study, we intended to establish a new and effective PCV2 detection method through combining the no specific equipment requirement advantage of loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) with the property of clustered regular interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/Cas12a system possessing the huLbCas12a collateral cleavage activity able to cleave single-stranded DNA fluorophore quencher probe sensor (designed as LAPM-CRISPR). Following a series of optimizations of its reaction conditions, this LAMP-CRISPR-based PCV2 detection could be conducted in constant temperature equipment, with the result reflected in a direct visual readout way. This established PCV2 detection approach presented fine sensitivity, rapidity, specificity, and reliability, as demonstrated by a low detectable limit of 1 copy/μL, completed within an hour, no cross-reaction with main porcine DNA or RNA viruses like PCV1, PCV3, and PEDV, and a 100% coincidence rate with that of the quantitative PCR (qPCR) method in the evaluation of 30 clinical blood samples, respectively. Therefore, this novel method makes rapid, on-site, visual, highly sensitive, and specific detection of PCV2 possible, facilitating the prevention of this pathogen in the field.
Performance of Marmoset Monkeys as Embryo Donors Is Reflected by Different Stress-Related Parameters
Authors: Drummer Charis , Münzker Julia , Heistermann Michael , Becker Tamara , Mißbach Sophie , Behr Rüdiger
Published: September 2022

Non-human primates (NHPs) serve as embryo donors for embryo collection in order to mimic genetic diseases in humans by genetic modification. Reproductive health of the embryo donors is crucial, and chronic distress needs to be avoided. Embryo retrieval rates (ERR), anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) concentrations, cortisol levels, and body weight fluctuations were assessed as markers for fertility and distress. With regard to successful embryo retrievals (total n = 667), the animals were either used for extended periods (long-term group; LTG) or only for short periods (short-term group; STG). Retrospective evaluation expectedly showed that animals in the LTG had a higher ERR than animals in the STG (p < 0.0001). Importantly, ERR in the LTG remained stable throughout the experimental period, and high embryo rates were already encountered during the first year of experimental use (p = 0.0002). High ERR were associated with high AMH and low cortisol levels, and minimal body weight fluctuations following anesthesia, indicating a superior ability of the LTG animals to handle distress. We conclude that the long-term experimental use of marmosets does not impair their fertility or health status per se, supporting the view that animal reuse can be in accordance with the 3R-principle, implying reduction, replacement, and refinement in animal experimentation.
Effect of Dietary Fructus mume and Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi on the Fecal Microbiota and Its Correlation with Apparent Nutrient Digestibility in Weaned Piglets
Authors: Zhang Feng , Jin Erhui , Liu Xiaodan , Ji Xu , Hu Hong
Published: September 2022

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has long been demonstrated to exert a therapeutic effect on various diseases and has been used as a substitute for antibiotics in pig production. However, few studies have investigated the relationship between the intestinal microbiota and apparent nutrient digestibility when weaned piglet diets are supplemented with TCM. One hundred and sixty-two 25-day-old weaning piglets were housed in an environmentally controlled nursery facility and fed a basal diet (control group, n = 54) or a TCM complex (Fructus mume 1%, Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi 3%) (TCM group, n = 54), or a fermented diet with a complex of these two TCMs (F-TCM group, n = 54). Compared with the control group, in the TCM and F-TCM groups, the average daily gain (ADG) increased (p < 0.05), the F:G ratio and diarrhea rate decreased (p < 0.05), and the apparent digestibility of dry matter (DM) and ether extract (EE) of weaned piglets increased (p < 0.05). Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes were the predominant phyla, representing approximately 95% of all sequences. The abundance of four genera and 10 OTUs (belonging to Ruminococcaceae_UCG-014, Lachnoclostridium, Prevotellaceae_NK3B31 group, Prevotella_1) were negatively correlated with apparent EE digestibility (p < 0.05). The results suggest that weaned piglets fed with antibiotic-free diets supplemented with Fructus mume and Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi gained more weight and were healthier. When added to the diet, the complex of these two TCMs may have a direct impact on apparent EE digestibility by modifying the gut microbial composition, which favors the health of weaned piglets.
Antimicrobial Resistance and Biofilms Underlying Catheter-Related Bloodstream Coinfection by Enterobacter cloacae Complex and Candida parapsilosis
Authors: Štefánek Matúš , Wenner Sigurd , Borges Vítor , Pinto Miguel , Gomes João Paulo , Rodrigues João , Faria Isabel , Pessanha Maria Ana , Martins Filomena , Sabino Raquel , Veríssimo Cristina , Nogueira Isabel D. , Carvalho Patrícia Almeida , Bujdáková Helena , Jordao Luisa
Published: September 2022

Biofilm-associated infections are a public health concern especially in the context of healthcare-associated infections such as catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs). We evaluated the biofilm formation and antimicrobials resistance (AMR) of Enterobacter cloacae complex and Candida parapsilosis co-isolated from a CRBSI patient. Antimicrobial susceptibility of central venous catheters (CVCs) and hemoculture (HC) isolates was evaluated, including whole genome sequencing (WGS) resistome analysis and evaluation of gene expression to obtain insight into their AMR determinants. Crystal violet assay was used to assess dual biofilm biomass and microscopy was used to elucidate a microorganism’s distribution within biofilms assembled on different materials. Bacteria were multidrug-resistant including resistance to colistin and beta-lactams, likely linked to the mcr-9-like phosphoethanolamine transferase and to an ACT family cephalosporin-hydrolyzing class C beta-lactamase, respectively. The R398I and Y132F mutations in the ERG11 gene and its differential expression might account for C. parapsilosis resistance to fluconazole. The phenotype of dual biofilms assembled on glass, polystyrene and polyurethane depends on the material and how biofilms were initiated by one or both pathogens. Biofilms assembled on polyurethane were denser and richer in the extracellular polymeric matrix, and microorganisms were differently distributed on the inner/outer surface of the CVC.
Setting Temperature and Humidity with a Misting System in a Pilot Greenhouse at Cisauk-Tangerang, Indonesia
Authors: Eduard Rudy , Ruslan Wegie , Iskandar Isdaryanto , Setyanto Djoko
Published: September 2022

A modern agricultural method of cultivating mustard greens and watercress with a hydroponic system in a pilot greenhouse has been implemented by a group of farmers in Cisauk-Tangerang, Banten, Indonesia. The characteristic tropical climate south of the equator causes high temperatures and humidity in the greenhouse. This study aims to control the temperature and humidity in the greenhouse using the misting method so that the temperature and humidity are not more than 33 °C and 85%, respectively. A misting system designed by the main equipment consists of a water flow control pump, temperature and humidity sensors, water mist spray nozzles, and water flow settings for intermittent drizzle for five minutes ON and ten minutes OFF using the internet of things module program. In addition to setting the water discharge intermittently, another limitation for the pump to be OFF is a minimum temperature benchmark of 28 °C and a maximum humidity of 85%. The temperature does not exceed 33 °C, and the humidity setting of 85% is obtained by adjusting the mass flow of water during the day according to the time sequence from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.: 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. using 50 L/h, 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. using 60 L/h, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. using 100 L/h, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. using 120 L/h, 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. using 80 L/h, 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. using 60 L/h, and 3 p.m. and after using 0 L/h or the misting system is turned off.
Molecular Techniques and Target Selection for the Identification of Candida spp. in Oral Samples
Authors: Magalhães Joana , Correia Maria José , Silva Raquel M. , Esteves Ana Cristina , Alves Artur , Duarte Ana Sofia
Published: September 2022

Candida species are the causative agent of oral candidiasis, with medical devices being platforms for yeast anchoring and tissue colonization. Identifying the infectious agent involved in candidiasis avoids an empirical prescription of antifungal drugs. The application of high-throughput technologies to the diagnosis of yeast pathogens has clear advantages in sensitivity, accuracy, and speed. Yet, conventional techniques for the identification of Candida isolates are still routine in clinical and research settings. Molecular approaches are the focus of intensive research, but conversion into clinic settings requires overcoming important challenges. Several molecular approaches can accurately identify Candida spp.: Polymerase Chain Reaction, Microarray, High-Resolution Melting Analysis, Multi-Locus Sequence Typing, Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism, Loop-mediated Isothermal Amplification, Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization-mass spectrometry, and Next Generation Sequencing. This review examines the advantages and disadvantages of the current molecular methods used for Candida spp. Identification, with a special focus on oral candidiasis. Discussion regarding their application for the diagnosis of oral infections aims to identify the most rapid, affordable, accurate, and easy-to-perform molecular techniques to be used as a point-of-care testing method. Special emphasis is given to the difficulties that health care professionals need to overcome to provide an accurate diagnosis.
Multi-Output Regression with Generative Adversarial Networks (MOR-GANs)
Authors: Phillips Toby R. F. , Heaney Claire E. , Benmoufok Ellyess , Li Qingyang , Hua Lily , Porter Alexandra E. , Chung Kian Fan , Pain Christopher C.
Published: September 2022

Regression modelling has always been a key process in unlocking the relationships between independent and dependent variables that are held within data. In recent years, machine learning has uncovered new insights in many fields, providing predictions to previously unsolved problems. Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) have been widely applied to image processing producing good results, however, these methods have not often been applied to non-image data. Seeing the powerful generative capabilities of the GANs, we explore their use, here, as a regression method. In particular, we explore the use of the Wasserstein GAN (WGAN) as a multi-output regression method. The resulting method we call Multi-Output Regression GANs (MOR-GANs) and its performance is compared to a Gaussian Process Regression method (GPR)—a commonly used non-parametric regression method that has been well tested on small datasets with noisy responses. The WGAN regression model performs well for all types of datasets and exhibits substantial improvements over the performance of the GPR for certain types of datasets, demonstrating the flexibility of the GAN as a model for regression.
Digestate Management and Processing Practices: A Review
Authors: Kovačić Đurđica , Lončarić Zdenko , Jović Jurica , Samac Danijela , Popović Brigita , Tišma Marina
Published: September 2022

The implementation of sustainable agro-energy systems that integrate crop, livestock, and bioenergy production is attracting increasing interest from farmers. Livestock produces large amounts of animal manure which can serve as organic fertilizer for crops and pasture growth. However, the nutrients contained in manure can adversely affect air, water, and soil quality and pose a public health risk if not handled properly. Existing manure management practices vary widely on a global scale. Researchers are striving to identify appropriate manure management practices with the aim of environmental protection. Anaerobic digestion of manure and subsequent digestate (DG) processing technologies have been proposed to stabilize manure so that it can be safely used for land applications. DG, which represents digested substrate removed from the anaerobic reactor after recovery of biogas, is a rich source of N, P, K, and S, various micronutrients, and organic matter, the addition of which to the soil can stimulate soil microbial biomass metabolic activities thus improving soil ecosystem function. However, the optimal fertilization properties of DG can be lost if it is neither fully stabilized nor contains biodegradable materials. To overcome these problems, various processing technologies can be used to convert DG into value-added by-products. Composting has been proposed as one such preferred post-treatment that can convert DG into mature, stable, safe, humus- and nutrient-rich compost. Other processing technologies such as thermal drying, gasification, hydrothermal carbonization, pyrolysis, membrane filtration, struvite precipitation, ammonia stripping, and evaporation have also been proposed for DG processing and nutrient recovery from DG. The objective of this review paper was to provide an overview of the current state of the art in DG management regulations and practices and to provide an update on the various processes that have been developed to meet DG stabilization requirements, with a focus on composting as one of the preferred solutions.
Special Issue “Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Spectroscopy in Food Science and Processing”
Authors: Proietti Noemi , Mannina Luisa , Sobolev Anatoly P.
Published: September 2022

The application of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance in food science has grown exponentially over the past few decades [...]
Establishing the True Dynamic Bending Moment of Propeller Shaft Using a Single Bridge of Strain Gauge
Authors: Vuong Quang Dao , Lee Ji-woong , Lee Won-Ju , Choi Hyejin , Seo Kanghyun , Kim Youngmin , Jeong Jin Hui , Song Myeong-ho , Lee Jae-ung
Published: September 2022

The measurement of shaft bending (whirling) moment can be performed via a telemetry system including strain gauges which can obtain the bending stress. By using a single bridge of strain gauge, it was possible to obtain only the nominal bending moment. However, in case of the propeller shaft vibration measurement, the true dynamic bending moment is needed to evaluate the effect of propeller forces on the stability of the bearings. To deal with this, typically two bridges of strain gauge at 90 degrees are needed. This research presents a novel reliability assessment method in establishing the true dynamic bending moment using only one bridge of strain gauge. This is achieved by using the actual bending stress measured by strain gauge combined with its own phase lag stress at an angle of 90 degrees. To validate this technique, the experiments were performed under the rapid turning transient states during a sea trial of a 50,000 DWT oil/chemical tanker. As a result, great fluctuations in propeller force were detected, resulting in a non-uniform oil film in the bearings. The displacement sensor was also installed and confirmed the established true dynamic bending moment.
Solving Fractional Volterra–Fredholm Integro-Differential Equations via A** Iteration Method
Authors: Ofem Austine Efut , Hussain Aftab , Joseph Oboyi , Udo Mfon Okon , Ishtiaq Umar , Al Sulami Hamed , Chikwe Chukwuka Fernando
Published: September 2022

In this article, we develop a faster iteration method, called the A∗∗ iteration method, for approximating the fixed points of almost contraction mappings and generalized α-nonexpansive mappings. We establish some weak and strong convergence results of the A∗∗ iteration method for fixed points of generalized α-nonexpansive mappings in uniformly convex Banach spaces. We provide a numerical example to illustrate the efficiency of our new iteration method. The weak w2-stability result of the new iteration method is also studied. As an application of our main results, we approximate the solution of a fractional Volterra–Fredholm integro-differential equation. Our results improve and generalize several well-known results in the current literature.
Recent Progress of Perovskite Nanocrystals in Chem/Bio Sensing
Authors: Jia Dailu , Xu Meng , Mu Shuang , Ren Wei , Liu Chenghui
Published: September 2022

Perovskite nanocrystals (PNCs) are endowed with extraordinary photophysical properties such as wide absorption spectra, high quantum yield, and narrow emission bands. However, the inherent shortcomings, especially the instability in polar solvents and water incompatibility, have hindered their application as probes in chem/bio sensing. In this review, we give a fundamental understanding of the challenges when using PNCs for chem/bio sensing and summarize recent progress in this area, including the application of PNCs in various sensors and the corresponding strategies to maintain their structural integrity. Finally, we provide perspectives to promote the future development of PNCs for chem/bio sensing applications.
IL-33 Alleviates Postoperative Cognitive Impairment by Inhibiting Hippocampal Inflammation and Upregulating Excitatory Synaptic Number in Aged Mice
Authors: Li Qi , Zhao Yuqian , Shi Chuanchuan , Song Xuemin
Published: September 2022

Delayed neurocognitive recovery (dNCR), a postoperative complication that occurs in elderly patients, still lacks effective treatment. Interleukin-33 (IL-33) has been proved to modulate neuroinflammation and synaptic plasticity, among other effects, but the role of IL-33 in dNCR is not clear. We established a dNCR model in aged mice by laparotomy under sevoflurane anesthesia. Cognition was evaluated by Morris water maze (MWM) and fear conditioning test (FCT). Immunofluorescence was used to detect the density of IL-33 and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) co-localization, ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1, vesicular glutamate transporter 1 (vGlut1) and postsynaptic density protein-95 (PSD95) co-localization in the hippocampus. IL-33, GFAP, vGlut1 and PSD95 were tested by Western blotting. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to detect the levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) and IL-10. Surgery/anesthesia reduced the level of IL-33 in the hippocampus. Intraperitoneal injection of 200 ng IL-33 per mouse significantly decreased the latency to the platform and increased the number of platform crossings and the target quadrant dwell time in MWM, while increasing the freezing time in the context test of FCT. Furthermore, IL-33 inhibited microglial activation and the release of TNF-α and IL-1β while upregulating the markers of excitatory synapses vGlut1 and PSD95. Our findings indicated that IL-33 improved cognition by inhibiting the hippocampal inflammatory response and upregulating the number of excitatory synapses. Therefore, IL-33 is a potential drug for the treatment of dNCR.
Analysis of a Stress-Strain State of a Cylindrical Tank Wall Vertical Field Joint Zone
Authors: Zhangabay Nurlan , Suleimenov Ulanbator , Utelbayeva Akmaral , Kolesnikov Alexandr , Baibolov Kanat , Imanaliyev Kuanysh , Moldagaliyev Arman , Karshyga Galymzhan , Duissenbekov Bolat , Fediuk Roman , Amran Mugahed
Published: September 2022

In the study, experimental and theoretical studies were carried out to assess the influence of the vertical mounting joint zone of the tank on the stress-strain state of the defect zone. Thus, experimental tests of models of a tank wall fragment with an imperfection of the mounting joint evaluated the stress-strain state of the mounting joint zone and established the dependence of the stress concentration in the joint zone on the deflection, the width of the zone and the thickness of the tank wall. It is shown that with a 50 mm bending boom, the annular stresses increase by 1.3 times than with a 30 mm bending boom and the meridional stresses increase by 1.16 times. The same nature of the increase is observed with the stress concentration indicator. By numerical analysis of the stress-strain state of tanks with joint imperfections in the ANSYS medium, the stress-strain state of the tank is estimated for various values of the joint bending parameters ς and ξ. The dependences of the stress concentration coefficient on the geometric dimensions of the imperfection, radius and thickness of the tank wall are also obtained. From the results of calculating the stress concentration coefficient, with an increase in the dimensionless parameters ς and ξ, the values of the stress concentration coefficient Kσ increase by 1.35 times. As a result of the calculations, an interpolation polynomial (5), approximating the stress concentration coefficient Kσ, is obtained, which can be used to estimate the strength, durability and residual resource of the tank. In addition, the obtained results can be used to normalize the limiting dimensions of the imperfection of the joint and to establish the values of the coefficient, taking into account the peculiarities of the work of structures at stress concentrations.
Experimental Study on Strength and Microstructure of Glacial Till Stabilized by Ionic Soil Stabilizer
Authors: Huang Yifan , Fan Wenfeng , Wu Jinliang , Xiang Xinglong , Wang Guan
Published: September 2022

Glacial till, widely distributed in southwest China, is a special soil directly deposited by detritus formed from melting Quaternary glaciers. In this paper, the F1 ionic soil stabilizer was adopted for stabilizing the glacial till to improve its mechanical strength. A series of micro and macro tests were carried out to study the mechanical properties and microstructure of stabilized soil with the F1 ionic soil stabilizer. The results show that the F1 ionic soil stabilizer can destroy the diffuse double layer structure on the surface of glacial till particles and reduce the thickness of the adsorbed water layer through strong cation exchange and hydrophobic interactions of active sulfonated oil, which reduce the spacing of glacial till particles, enhance the aggregation of glacial till particles, and effectively suppress the swelling deformation of the glacial till. It can be concluded that the water sensitivity and compaction characteristics of glacial till can be significantly improved by the stabilization of the F1 ionic soil stabilizer. Moreover, the mechanical strength of the glacial till can be significantly improved by the stabilization of the F1 ionic soil stabilizer. This article is helpful as a guideline for practical design and future research on applying the F1 ionic soil stabilizer to improve the bearing capacity of foundations in glacial till areas.