bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Droplet Size, Coverage, andDrift Potential from UAV Application Methods and Ground Application Methods on Row Crops
Authors: Gibbs Jenna L. , Peters Thomas M. , Heck Lindsay P.
Published: May 2021

Highlights

Droplet size, coverage, and drift potential of pesticide spray in corn with UAV application methods were compared with ground methods.

Measured droplets were smaller in UAV trials (102 to 182 µm geometric mean diameter) than in ground trials (265 to 432 µm geometric mean diameter).

UAV methods (particularly those without a boom) achieved high coverage in the middle swath of the field (>60 droplets cm-2) compared to ground methods (10 to 40 droplets cm-2).

Real-time particle monitors indicated potential for downwind spray drift during ground trials but not UAV trials.

The findings indicate a strong potential for “spot” or “band” spray coverage using UAV methods.

Abstract. Worldwide, the use of uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs) for pesticide application has grown tremendously in the past decade. Their adoption has been slower for Midwestern row crops. This study compared droplet size, coverage, and drift potential of sprays from UAV application methods to those from ground (implement) sprayer methods on corn in the Midwest. Droplet sizes measured during UAV spray trials [geometric mean diameters of 179 and 112 µm for UAV (boom) and UAV (no boom), respectively] were substantially smaller than those deposited during implement spray trials [mean diameters of 303 and 423 µm for implement (regular) and implement (pulse)]. Droplet coverage was high and localized in the middle swath of the field for the UAV with boom (10 to 30 droplets cm-2) and with no boom (60 droplets cm-2). Droplet coverage was broader, covering the entire field width for the implement methods (10 to 40 droplets cm-2). Vertical coverage of droplets was more uniform for UAV methods than implement methods. Although the UAVs produced smaller droplets than the implement methods, we still observed greater potential for downwind pesticide drift during the implement spray trials. Because localized application may be beneficial for pest control and drift reduction, the findings indicate a strong potential for “spot” or “band” spray coverage using UAV methods. This is likely due to the smaller size, reduced spray volumes, and increased agility of UAVs as compared to more conventional methods. Keywords: Agriculture, Application, Corn, Coverage, Drift, Droplet, Implement, Particles, Pesticides, Pesticide drift, Precision agriculture, Row crops, Spray trial, Uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV), Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV).
Molecular identification of blaCTX-M and blaTEM genes encoding extended-spectrum ß-lactamase (ESBL) producing Escherichia coli isolated from raw cow’s milk in East Java, Indonesia
Authors: ANSHARIETA RIBBY , RAMANDINIANTO SANCAKA CHASYER , Effendi Mustofa Helmi , PLUMERIASTUTI HANI
Published: May 2021

Abstract. Ansharieta R, Ramandinianto SC, Effendi MH, Plumeriastuti H. 2021. Molecular identification of blaCTX-M and blaTEM genes encoding extended-spectrum ß-lactamase (ESBL) producing Escherichia coli isolated from raw cow’s milk in East Java, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 22: 1600-1605. The emergence of extended-spectrum ?-lactamase (ESBL) producing bacteria and its increasing level has become public health issue. The presence of these bacteria in food of animal origin is quite alarming. The objective of this study was to detect and characterize Escherichia coli producing ESBL encoding genes, isolated from 200 raw cow milk samples in East Java, Indonesia. The results of this study showed that 70.5% of isolates were confirmed as E. coli, based on the morphological growth of colonies on the EMB Agar and biochemical IMViC tests. In this study, the double-disc synergy test (DDST) method was used to confirm the ESBL, and previously sorted out presumptively by using Aztreonam antibiotic disc. The antibiotics used were amoxicillin-clavulanate, ceftazidime, and cefotaxime for DDST. In addition, ESBL confirmation with Multiplex PCR method for blaCTX-M and blaTEM genes were done. The presence of ESBL-producing by E. coli isolated from raw cow’s milk in East Java were 2.12% (3/141). The PCR results showed that the double blaCTX-M and blaTEM gene harbored by 2 ESBL isolates and one blaTEM gene as many as 1 ESBL isolate. Thus, the findings of our study indicate that milk can be a good reservoir of bacteria carrying blaCTX-M and blaTEM ESBL resistance genes with the potential to affect human health.
Short Communication: Diversity of cellulolytic bacteria isolated from coastal mangrove sediment in Logending Beach, Kebumen, Indonesia
Authors: Pramono Hendro , MARIANA AFIFAH , RYANDINI DINI , SUDIANA EMING
Published: May 2021

Abstract. Pramono H, Mariana A, Ryandini D, Sudiana E. 2021. Short Communication: Diversity of cellulolytic bacteria isolated from coastal mangrove sediment in Logending Beach, Kebumen, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 22: 1869-1878. Bacteria from mangrove sediments have the potential to produce active enzymes and metabolites needed in the industry.  Mangrove ecosystems in various parts of Indonesia have been explored as sources of bacteria. However, the mangrove ecosystems in  Logending Beach, Kebumen District, Indonesia are still unexplored. This study aims to determine the diversity of cellulolytic bacteria using the 16S rRNA gene. Ninety-nine bacteria were isolated from Logending coastal mangrove sediments. Most of them (87.87%) had a cellulolytic activity, with the cellulolytic index values ranged from 0.25–13.96. The LG2 isolate had the highest cellulolytic activity (13.96). Molecular characterization of the LG2 isolate based on the 16S rRNA gene showed that it was similar to the Fictibacillus nanhaiensis strain JSM 082006. This result is new information on cellulolytic bacteria and might be used as a future source of cellulolytic enzymes.
Taxonomic investigation of the Xanthium strumarium L. complex (Asteraceae) distributed in Iran inferred from morphological, palynological and molecular data
Authors: Noedoost Fariba , VAEZI JAMIL , SIAHKOLAEE SEDIGHEH NIKZAT
Published: May 2021

Abstract. Noedoost F, Vaezi J, Nikzat Siahkolaee S. 2021. Taxonomic investigation of the Xanthium strumarium L. complex (Asteraceae) distributed in Iran inferred from morphological, palynological and molecular data. Biodiversitas 22: 1961-1974. Unclear species boundaries due to high morphological similarities lead to different opinions on Xanthium classification. To solve this problem, we conducted investigation on morphological, palynological and molecular (ITS sequencing) of three species of Xanthium (i.e., X. strumarium, X. sibiricum, and X. brasilicum) forming Xanthium strumarium complex in Iran. We randomly collected 110 plant individuals of the Xanthium strumarium complex as well as X. spinosum from 30 geographical populations in eight provinces of Iran. Pollen grains of 19 populations were studied by scanning electron microscope (SEM). Results obtained from the analysis of morphological characters showed that the three species, X. strumarium, X. brasilicum and X. sibiricum were placed nearly together specially X. strumarium and X. brasilicum are obviously overlapped. Palynological results indicated the pollen grains of section Acanthoxanthium (i.e., X. spinosum) and Xanthium (i.e., X. strumarium, X. sibiricum, and X. brasilicum) are clearly differing by their LM and SEM characters. However, no significant difference found between the pollen of X. strumarium and X. brasilicum. The Bayesian phylogenetic tree of the ITS region of rDNA sequences revealed that X. strumarium, X. sibiricum and X. brasilicum could not be discriminated as independent species. Overall, the morphological, palynological and molecular data provided evidence to synonymize X. brasilicum and X. strumarium with X. orientale and X. sibiricum with X. strumarium.
Endophytic fungi as potential biocontrol agents of Phytophthora palmivora in the cocoa plant
Authors: SIMAMORA AGNES VIRGINIA , HAHULY MAYAVIRA VERONICA , Henuk JULINDA BD
Published: May 2021

Abstract. Simamora AV, Hahuly MV, Henuk JBD. 2021. Endophytic fungi as potential biocontrol agents of Phytophthora palmivora in the cocoa plant. Biodiversitas 22: 2601-2609. In Indonesia, the cocoa tree is one of the essential cultivation crops for farmers. Despite the importance of cocoa cultivation in Indonesia's economy, the productivity of this crop has declined. Cocoa black pod disease caused by Phytophthora palmivora (Butl.) is one of the most severe diseases affecting this crop worldwide, with average annual losses above 40%. Instead of using manufactured chemicals, biological control is an effective and eco-friendly alternative control measure against plant pathogens. This work aimed to assess the potential of endophytic fungi isolated from healthy cocoa pods to control Phytophthora palmivora in vitro and in vivo. Endophytic fungal isolates were classified based on the morphological characteristics of their cultures and reproductive structures. All isolates found were tested to inhibit P. palmivora in the dual culture method, and the best 10 isolates were continued for detached pod assay. Then, the best five isolates (Aspergillus4, Aspergillus5, Aspergillus6, Fusarium6, Ramichloridium sp.) were evaluated for their capability to reduce P. palmivora in cocoa seedlings and in the field plants. Aspergillus, Fusarium, and Ramichloridium showed maximum activity against P. palmivora in dual culture, pod, and seedling assays. Nevertheless, when all these five isolates were applied in the field, they did not suppress the disease development.
Assessing fluctuation of ant populations in a distinct ecological habitat for the purpose of tracking climate change effects
Authors: Majeed Waqar , Khawaja Masud , Rana Naureen
Published: May 2021

Abstract. Majeed W, Khawaja M, Rana N. 2021. Assessing fluctuation of ant populations in a distinct ecological habitat for the purpose of tracking climate change effects. Biodiversitas 22: 2722-2727. Ants are the most promising group of terrestrial invertebrates, playing an important role in soil fertility by unclearing the vegetation surface of soil. This study focused on the composition and structure of ants' communities in two different sampling stations: Domestic and Wild areas. Ants fauna were collected over a period of six months using an inline-fixing technique combined with pitfall traps and hand sampling. A total of 30 ant species were collected, belonging to 15 genera in four subfamilies: Formicinae, Myrmicinae, Dolichoderinae, and Dorylinae. The maximum population was recorded in the Wild area due to dense forest vegetation present at this station. The most abundantly found species in the Domestic area was Lasius niger, while Formica spp. species was most common in the Wild area. Diversity (H) and Margalef Richness indices were recorded higher for the Wild habitat, while Evenness was found higher in the Domestic. Statistical analysis showed that the abundance and species Richness were highly significant for both habitats (p < 0.001). Ant populations showed significant variation with temperature and humidity; for example, an increase in temperature and low humidity favored the abundance of ants. Being the first such study in this region, the results add significantly to understanding this terrain’s ecology
Early growth evaluation and estimation of heritability in a sengon (Falcataria moluccana) progeny testing at Kediri, East Java, Indonesia
Authors: Nugroho Aditya , MATRA DEDEN D. , SIREGAR ISKANDAR Z. , HANEDA NOOR F. , ISTIKORINI YUNIK , RAHMAWATI RIKA , AMIN YAHYA , SIREGAR ULFAH J.
Published: May 2021

Abstract. Nugroho A, Matra DD, Siregar IZ, Haneda NF, Istikorini Y, Rahmawati R, Amin Y, Siregar UJ. 2021. Early growth evaluation and estimation of heritability in a sengon (Falcataria moluccana) progeny testing at Kediri, East Java, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 22: 2728-2736. Sengon (Falcataria moluccana) is widely cultivated as a monoculture plantation in community forests that still poses a high risk of pest and disease attacks.  Although plants naturally show signs of resistance, there is still however a lack of understanding on the influence of relative plant resistance on growth due to environmental and genetic factors. This study was aimed to evaluate the early growth of a sengon progeny testing in Kediri, East Java and to estimate the genetic parameters with respect to its resistance and susceptibility to stem borer and rust disease. Progeny test was designed using randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four blocks as replications. Each block consists of 100 families which was grouped into two categories, 50 families for resistant group and 50 families for susceptible group. Observations were made at the age of 0 and 9 months after planting on 9 individuals per plot in each family. Growth characteristics were measured as germination (%), height (m), and diameter (cm). Results indicated that the sengon growth rate from resistant and susceptible plant groups showed a significant difference. Heritability values are classified as moderate, ranging between 0.107 to 0.133 and 0.102 to 0.150 for height and diameter variables, respectively. These information may be used for gradual selection by considering the appropriate intensity.
Metabolite correlation with antioxidant activity in different fruit maturation stages of Physalis peruviana
Authors: Mubarok Syariful , Yulianto Fiky , Budiarto Rahmat , Rahmat Bayu Pradana Nur , Khoerunnisa Sucinta Aulida
Published: May 2021

Abstract. Mubarok S, Wicaksono FY, Budiarto R, Rahmat BPN, Khoerunnisa SA. 2021. Metabolite correlation with antioxidant activity in different fruit maturation stages of Physalis peruviana. Biodiversitas 22: 2743-2749. Fruit development influences the metabolites contents and then its biological activity, however, such report is still limited in goldenberry (Physalis peruviana L.). This work aimed to evaluate metabolite variability and its correlation to antioxidant activity in several stages of fruit maturation in goldenberry originating from Sumedang, Indonesia. The research was laid out in a completely randomized design with 6 different treatments in terms of fruit maturation stages. Only fresh and pest-disease-free fruits collected from local farms were prepared for several metabolites assay, i.e pH, TSS, lycopene, ?-carotene, polyphenol, flavonoid and its antioxidant activity. The statistical analysis resulted in a significant improvement of all fruit metabolite variables in response to fruit maturation process, except polyphenol. Compared to the oldest fruit stage of S6 (orange berry covered by full wilt white calyx), the youngest fruit of S1 (green berry covered by fresh green calyx) increased the pH, TSS, lycopene, ?-carotene and flavonoid by about 7%, 67.5%, eight-fold, nine-fold and two-fold, respectively. Pearson correlation analysis showed a significant and positive correlation between all metabolite variables (except polyphenol) to antioxidant activity of goldenberry fruit.
High Volume Plasma Exchange in Acute Liver Failure: A Brief Review
Authors:   Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO USA, Rockstrom Matthew , Rice Jonathan , Tran Tomio , Neumeier Anna
Published: May 2021

Acute liver failure (ALF) is characterized by acute liver injury, coagulopathy, and altered mental status. Acetaminophen overdose contributes to almost half the cases of ALF in the United States. In the era of liver transplantation, mortality associated with this condition has improved dramatically. However, many patients are not transplant candidates including many who present with overt suicide attempt from acetaminophen overdose. High volume plasma exchange (HVP) is a novel application of plasma exchange. Prior research has shown that HVP can correct the pathophysiologic derangements underlying ALF. A randomized control trial demonstrated improved transplant-free survival when HVP was added to standard medical therapy. In this case, we examine a patient who presented to the intensive care unit with ALF caused by intentional acetaminophen overdose. She was denied transplant due to overt suicide attempt, was treated with HVP, and made a rapid recovery, eventually discharged to inpatient psychiatry and then home.
Silicon diffractive optical element with piecewise continuous profile to focus high-power terahertz radiation into a square area
Authors: Komlenok Maxim S. , Kononenko Taras V. , Konov Vitaly I. , Choporova Yulia Yu. , Osintseva Natalya D. , Knyazev Boris A. , Pavelyev Vladimir S. , Tukmakov Konstantin N. , Soifer Victor A.
Published: May 2021

A technique of high-frequency laser ablation using a 2D beam scanner has been designed and applied to creation of a silicon diffractive optical element (DOE) with a continuous profile to focus a terahertz Gaussian beam into a square region. The microrelief of the resulting silicon DOE has been analyzed with a white-light interferometer and a scanning electron microscope. The distribution of radiation behind the DOE illuminated by a high-power beam of the Novosibirsk free-electron laser at a wavelength of 130 µm, recorded with a pyroelectric camera, has been demonstrated. The measured diffraction efficiency of the DOE is equal to

97

±

2

%

.
Digitized mini optofluidic element and its application to ophthalmic lenses for presbyopia correction
Authors: Portney Valdemar , Christ F. Richard , Christ Marie Dvorak
Published: May 2021

Using the internally placed elastic membrane and multi-chamber configuration, we designed a digitized mini optofluidic element for fast switching between refractive and diffractive states of preset optical powers. Relief surface was used in the diffractive state. We applied finite element analysis to establish membrane mechanical characteristics for switching at the force level produced by the ocular elements such as ciliary muscle or lower eyelid at eye downgaze. The prototypes were made to demonstrate proof-of-concept. Membrane conformance to the diffractive grooves and imaging quality were demonstrated. The analysis supported switching under the force level exerted by the ocular elements supporting the digitized optofluidic element potential for presbyopia correction by ophthalmic lenses.
Ultrasensitive nanoplasmonic biosensor based on interferometric excitation of multipolar plasmonic modes
Authors: Felix-Rendon Ulises , Berini Pierre , De Leon Israel
Published: May 2021

We propose a nanoplasmonic interferometric biosensor, which exploits the selective excitation of multipolar plasmonic modes in a nanoslit to provide a novel scheme for highly-sensitive biosensing. In this design, two counter-propagating surface plasmon polaritons interfere at the location of the nanoslit, selectively exciting the dipolar and quadrupolar modes of the structure depending on the phase relationship induced by the analyte. The contrasting radiation patterns produced by these modes result in large changes in the angular distribution of the transmitted light that depends on the analyte concentration. The resultant far-field is numerically modeled and the sensing performance of the structure is assessed, resulting in maximum bulk and surface sensitivities of S
B
 = 1.12 × 105 deg/RIU and S
S
 = 302 deg/RIU, respectively, and a bulk-sensing resolution of the order of 10−8 RIU. The design allows ample control over the trade-off between operating range and resolution through the slit’s width, making this platform suitable for a broad range of sensing requirements.
Emergence and tunability of transmission gap in the strongly disordered regime of a dielectric random scattering medium
Authors: Ishfak Tahmid Md , Joti Paul Dip , Zunaid Baten Md
Published: May 2021

Light transmission characteristics in a strongly disordered medium of dielectric scatterers, having dimensionalities similar to those of self-organized GaN nanowires, is analyzed employing finite difference time domain analysis technique. While photonic bandgap like transmission gaps have already been reported for several quasi-crystalline and weakly disordered media, the results of this work show that in spite of the lack of any form of quasi-crystallinity, distinct transmission gaps can be attained in a strongly disordered medium of dielectric scatterers. In fact, similar to the case of a two-dimensional photonic crystal, transmission gap of a uniform random medium of GaN nanowires can be tuned from ultra-violet to visible regime of the spectrum by varying diameter and fill-factor of the nanowires. Comparison of transmission characteristics of periodic, weakly disordered, correlated strongly disordered and uniform strongly disordered arrays having nanowires of identical diameters and fill factors suggest that in spite of the dominance of multiple scattering process, the underlying Mie and Bragg processes contribute to the emergence and tunability of transmission gaps in a strongly disordered medium. Without any loss of generality, the findings of this work offer significant design latitude for controlling transmission properties in the strong disorder regime, thereby offering the prospect of designing disorder based novel photonic and optoelectronic devices and systems.
Effective pair-interaction of phase singularities in random waves
Authors: De Angelis L. , Kuipers L.
Published: May 2021

In two-dimensional random waves, phase singularities are point-like dislocations with a behavior reminiscent of interacting particles. This—qualitative—consideration stems from the spatial arrangement of these entities, which finds its hallmark in a pair correlation reminiscent of a liquid-like system. Starting from their pair correlation function, we derive an effective pair-interaction for phase singularities in random waves by using a reverse Monte Carlo method. This study initiates a new, to the best of our knowledge, approach for the treatment of singularities in random waves and can be generalized to topological defects in any system.
Collapse of hybrid vector beam in Rb atomic vapor
Authors: Hu Huajie , Luo Dajin , Pan Churong , Qin Yan , Zhang Yingxin , Wei Dong , Chen Haixia , Gao Hong , Li Fuli
Published: May 2021

In recent years, many researchers have tried to control and design the collapsing behavior of light beams in nonlinear media. Vector beams coupling with spin and orbit angular momentum freedom have attracted more and more attention. In this Letter, we study the collapse of a hybrid vector beam (HVB) propagating through rubidium atomic vapor. First, the HVB collapses into filaments located at positions with linear polarization. As propagation distance in atomic vapor increases, the locations of the filaments switch from positions with linear polarization to those with circular polarization. In this process, the absorption of the medium plays an important role. Results indicate that the absorption can be used as a degree of freedom to modulate the filamentation. Furthermore, by analyzing the polarization angle of an elliptically polarized position on the transverse plane of the HVB, we demonstrate the evolution of polarization distribution of HVB during propagation. Such results could have application in manipulating other structured beams and could be potentially applied to realize optical switches or logic for information processing.
Development and validation of a set of novel and robust 4-lncRNA-based nomogram predicting prostate cancer survival by bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Zhang Peng , Tan Xiaodong , Zhang Daoqiang , Gong Qi , Zhang Xuefeng
Published: May 2021

Background and objective

Accumulating evidence shows that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) possess great potential in the diagnosis and prognosis of prostate cancer (PCa). Therefore, this study aimed to construct an lncRNA-based signature to more accurately predict the prognosis of different PCa patients, so as to improve patient management and prognosis.

Methods

Through univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis, this study constructed a 4 lncRNAs-based prognosis nomogram for the classification and prediction of survival risk in patients with PCa based on TCGA data. Then we used the data of TCGA and ICGC to verify the performance of our prediction model. The receiver operating characteristic curve was plotted for detecting and validating our prediction model sensitivity and specificity. In addition, Cox regression analysis was conducted to examine whether the signature’s prediction ability was independent of additional clinicopathological variables. Possible biological functions for those prognostic lncRNAs were predicted on those 4 protein-coding genes (PCGs) related to lncRNAs.

Results

Four lncRNAs (HOXB-AS3, YEATS2-AS1, LINC01679, PRRT3-AS1) were extracted after COX regression analysis for classifying patients into high and low-risk groups by different OS rates. As suggested by ROC analysis, our proposed model showed high sensitivity and specificity. Independent prognostic capability of the model from other clinicopathological factors was indicated through further analysis. Based on functional enrichment, those action sites for prognostic lncRNAs were mostly located in the extracellular matrix and cell membrane, and their functions are mainly associated with the adhesion, activation and transport of the components across the extracellular matrix or cell membrane.

Conclusion

Our current study successfully identifies a novel candidate, which can provide more convincing evidence for prognosis in addition to the traditional clinicopathological indicators to predict the PCa survival, and laying the foundation for offering potentially novel therapeutic treatment. Additionally, this study sheds more lights on the PCa-related molecular mechanisms.
Molecular characterization of Gyps africanus (African white-backed vulture) organic anion transporter 1 and 2 expressed in the kidney
Authors: Nethathe Bono , Phaswane Rephima , Abera Aron , Naidoo Vinny
Published: May 2021

Gyps species have been previously shown to be highly sensitive to the toxic effects of diclofenac, when present in their food sources as drug residues following use as a veterinary medicine. Vultures exposed to diclofenac soon become depressed and die with signs of severe visceral gout and renal damage on necropsy. The molecular mechanism behind toxicity and renal excretion of uric acid is still poorly understood. With the clinical pictures suggesting renal uric acid excretion as the target site for toxicity, as a first step the following study was undertaken to determine the uric acid excretory pathways present in the African white-backed vulture (Gyps africanus) (AWB), one of the species susceptible to toxicity. Using transcriptome analysis, immunohistochemistry and functional predictions, we demonstrated that AWB makes use of theorganic anion transporter 2(OAT2) for their uric acid excretion. RT-qPCR analysis subsequently demonstrated relatively similar expression of theOAT2transporter in the vulture and chicken. Lastly docking analysis, predicted that the non-steroidal drugs induce their toxicity through an allosteric binding.
Multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae harboring extended spectrum β-lactamase encoding genes isolated from human septicemias
Authors: Carvalho Isabel , Chenouf Nadia Safia , Carvalho José António , Castro Ana Paula , Silva Vanessa , Capita Rosa , Alonso-Calleja Carlos , Enes Dapkevicius Maria de Lurdes Nunes , Igrejas Gilberto , Torres Carmen , Poeta Patrícia
Published: May 2021

Klebsiella pneumoniae is a major pathogen implicated in nosocomial infections. Extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing K. pneumoniae isolates are a public health concern. We aim to characterize the type of β-lactamases and the associated resistance mechanisms in ESBL-producing K. pneumoniae isolates obtained from blood cultures in a Portuguese hospital, as well as to determine the circulating clones. Twenty-two cefotaxime/ceftazidime-resistant (CTX/CAZR) K. pneumoniae isolates were included in the study. Identification was performed by MALDI-TOF MS and the antimicrobial susceptibility testing by disk-diffusion. The screening test for ESBL-production was performed and ESBL-producer isolates were further characterized. The presence of different beta-lactamase genes (blaCTX-M, blaSHV, blaTEM, blaKPC, blaNDM, blaVIM, blaOXA-48, blaCMY-2, blaDHA-1, blaFOX, blaMOX, and blaACC) was analyzed by PCR/sequencing in ESBL-producer isolates, as well as the presence of other resistance genes (aac(6’)-Ib-cr, tetA/B, dfrA, qnrA/B/S, sul1/2/3) or integron-related genes (int1/2/3). Multilocus-sequence-typing (MLST) was performed for selected isolates. ESBL activity was detected in 12 of the 22 CTX/CAZR K. pneumoniae isolates and 11 of them carried the blaCTX-M-15 gene (together with blaTEM), and the remaining isolate carried the blaSHV-106 gene. All the blaCTX-M-15 harboring isolates also contained a blaSHV gene (blaSHV-1, blaSHV-11 or blaSHV-27 variants). Both blaSHV-27 and blaSHV-106 genes correspond to ESBL-variants. Two of the CTX-M-15 producing isolates carried a carbapenemase gene (blaKPC2/3 and blaOXA-48) and showed imipenem resistance. The majority of the ESBL-producing isolates carried the int1 gene, as well as sulphonamide-resistance genes (sul2 and/or sul3); the tetA gene was detected in all eight tetracycline-resistant isolates. Three different genetic lineages were found in selected isolates: ST348 (one CTX-M-15/TEM/SHV-27/KPC-2/3-producer isolate), ST11 (two CTX-M-15/TEM/SHV-1- and CTX-M-15-TEM-SHV-11-OXA-48-producer isolates) and ST15 (one SHV-106/TEM-producer isolate). ESBL enzymes of CTX-M-15 or SHV-type are detected among blood K. pneumoniae isolates, in some cases in association with carbapenemases of KPC or OXA-48 type.
Factors affecting revisit intention for medical services at dental clinics
Authors: Park Sewon , Kim Han-Kyoul , Choi Mankyu , Lee Munjae
Published: May 2021

Recent changes in the medical paradigm highlight the importance of patient-centered communication. However, because of the lack of awareness of dental clinics and competency of medical personnel, the quality of medical services in terms of the communication between doctors and patients has not improved. This study analyzed the impact of health communication and medical service quality, service value, and patient satisfaction on the intention to revisit dental clinics. The study participants were outpatients treated at 10 dental clinics in Seoul. The research data were collected using a questionnaire during visits to these dental clinics from December 1 to December 30, 2016. A total of 600 questionnaires were distributed (60 copies to each clinics) and 570 valid questionnaires were used for the analysis. The influence of the factors was determined using structural equation modeling. The factors influencing service value were reliability (β = 0.364, p < 0.001), expertise (β = 0.319, p < 0.001), communication by doctors (β = 0.224, p < 0.001), and tangibility (β = 0.136, p < 0.05). In addition, the factors influencing patient satisfaction were reliability (β = 0.258, p < 0.001), tangibility (β = 0.192, p < 0.001), communication by doctors (β = 0.163, p < 0.001), and expertise (β = 0.122, p < 0.01). Further, service value (β = 0.438, p < 0.001) raised patient satisfaction, which was found to influence the intention to revisit dental clinics (β = 0.383, p < 0.001). Providing accurate medical services to inpatients based on smooth communication between doctors and patients improves patient satisfaction. In addition, doctors can build long-term relations with patients by increasing patients’ intention to revisit through patient-oriented communication.
Novel dopamine receptor 3 antagonists inhibit the growth of primary and temozolomide resistant glioblastoma cells
Authors: Williford Sarah E. , Libby Catherine J. , Ayokanmbi Adetokunbo , Otamias Arphaxad , Gordillo Juan J. , Gordon Emily R. , Cooper Sara J. , Redmann Matthew , Li Yanjie , Griguer Corinne , Zhang Jianhua , Napierala Marek , Ananthan Subramaniam , Hjelmeland Anita B.
Published: May 2021

Treatment for the lethal primary adult brain tumor glioblastoma (GBM) includes the chemotherapy temozolomide (TMZ), but TMZ resistance is common and correlates with promoter methylation of the DNA repair enzyme O-6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT). To improve treatment of GBMs, including those resistant to TMZ, we explored the potential of targeting dopamine receptor signaling. We found that dopamine receptor 3 (DRD3) is expressed in GBM and is also a previously unexplored target for therapy. We identified novel antagonists of DRD3 that decreased the growth of GBM xenograft-derived neurosphere cultures with minimal toxicity against human astrocytes and/or induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neurons. Among a set of DRD3 antagonists, we identified two compounds, SRI-21979 and SRI-30052, that were brain penetrant and displayed a favorable therapeutic window analysis of The Cancer Genome Atlas data demonstrated that higher levels of DRD3 (but not DRD2 or DRD4) were associated with worse prognosis in primary, MGMT unmethylated tumors. These data suggested that DRD3 antagonists may remain efficacious in TMZ-resistant GBMs. Indeed, SRI-21979, but not haloperidol, significantly reduced the growth of TMZ-resistant GBM cells. Together our data suggest that DRD3 antagonist-based therapies may provide a novel therapeutic option for the treatment of GBM.
Chronic stress in practice assistants: An analytic approach comparing four machine learning classifiers with a standard logistic regression model
Authors: Bozorgmehr Arezoo , Thielmann Anika , Weltermann Birgitta
Published: May 2021

Background

Occupational stress is associated with adverse outcomes for medical professionals and patients. In our cross-sectional study with 136 general practices, 26.4% of 550 practice assistants showed high chronic stress. As machine learning strategies offer the opportunity to improve understanding of chronic stress by exploiting complex interactions between variables, we used data from our previous study to derive the best analytic model for chronic stress: four common machine learning (ML) approaches are compared to a classical statistical procedure.

Methods

We applied four machine learning classifiers (random forest, support vector machine, K-nearest neighbors’, and artificial neural network) and logistic regression as standard approach to analyze factors contributing to chronic stress in practice assistants. Chronic stress had been measured by the standardized, self-administered TICS-SSCS questionnaire. The performance of these models was compared in terms of predictive accuracy based on the ‘operating area under the curve’ (AUC), sensitivity, and positive predictive value.

Findings

Compared to the standard logistic regression model (AUC 0.636, 95% CI 0.490–0.674), all machine learning models improved prediction: random forest +20.8% (AUC 0.844, 95% CI 0.684–0.843), artificial neural network +12.4% (AUC 0.760, 95% CI 0.605–0.777), support vector machine +15.1% (AUC 0.787, 95% CI 0.634–0.802), and K-nearest neighbours +7.1% (AUC 0.707, 95% CI 0.556–0.735). As best prediction model, random forest showed a sensitivity of 99% and a positive predictive value of 79%. Using the variable frequencies at the decision nodes of the random forest model, the following five work characteristics influence chronic stress: too much work, high demand to concentrate, time pressure, complicated tasks, and insufficient support by practice leaders.

Conclusions

Regarding chronic stress prediction, machine learning classifiers, especially random forest, provided more accurate prediction compared to classical logistic regression. Interventions to reduce chronic stress in practice personnel should primarily address the identified workplace characteristics.
Biochemical evidence of epicuticular wax compounds involved in cotton-whitefly interaction
Authors: Ali Muhammad Azam , Khan Muhammad Azmat Ullah , Rao Abdul Qayyum , Iqbal Adnan , Din Salah ud , Shahid Ahmad Ali
Published: May 2021

Sucking insects require a surface of plants on which the legs and the eggs of insects will adhere and to which insect mouthparts will access. The primary plant protection against insects is their surface property, which hinders the attachment of the insect’s legs and eggs. The epicuticular waxes chemistry influences the fine structure of the cuticular surface. In current study, an attempt was made to investigate the variation of chemical compounds in epicuticular waxes of four cotton species that classify them resistant or susceptible i.e., Gossypium abroreum, G. hirsutum, G. arboreum wax deficient mutant (GaWM3) and G. harknessi which were evaluated for their interaction with whitefly and CLCuV transmission. Gossypium hirsutum an insect and CLCuV susceptible cotton variety, was found to have four compounds namely Trichloroacetic acid, hexadecylester, P-xylenolpthalein, 2-cyclopentene-1-ol, 1-phenyl-and Phenol, 2,5-bis [1,1- dimethyl] which could interact with chitin of whitefly while only two compounds in Gossypium arboreum an insect and CLCuV resistant cotton variety could interact with chitin of whitefly. Similarly, GaWM3 and Gossypium harkasnessi were found to have only a single compound. Number of whiteflies found on leaves of G. hirsutum was much higher as compared to other cotton species. Keeping this fact in mind a wax biosynthetic gene CER3, from Arabidopsis thaliana was transformed into G. hirsutum and the plants were evaluated for their resistance against whitefly and CLCuV transmission. In microscopic analysis transgenic plants clearly showed higher amounts of leaf waxes as compared to non-transgenics. The least whitefly population and CLCuV titer of <10,000 units was found in transgenic plants compared to non-transgenic cotton where it was ≈4.5X106 units that confirmed the role of wax in insect interaction and ultimately to CLCuV transmission. This study provides novel insight on wax related compounds involved in cotton-whitefly interaction, which potentially can help in developing more efficient control strategies for this destructive pest.
Analysis of facial expressions in response to basic taste stimuli using artificial intelligence to predict perceived hedonic ratings
Authors: Yamamoto Takashi , Mizuta Haruno , Ueji Kayoko
Published: May 2021

Taste stimuli can induce a variety of physiological reactions depending on the quality and/or hedonics (overall pleasure) of tastants, for which objective methods have long been desired. In this study, we used artificial intelligence (AI) technology to analyze facial expressions with the aim of assessing its utility as an objective method for the evaluation of food and beverage hedonics compared with conventional subjective (perceived) evaluation methods. The face of each participant (10 females; age range, 21–22 years) was photographed using a smartphone camera a few seconds after drinking 10 different solutions containing five basic tastes with different hedonic tones. Each image was then uploaded to an AI application to achieve outcomes for eight emotions (surprise, happiness, fear, neutral, disgust, sadness, anger, and embarrassment), with scores ranging from 0 to 100. For perceived evaluations, each participant also rated the hedonics of each solution from –10 (extremely unpleasant) to +10 (extremely pleasant). Based on these, we then conducted a multiple linear regression analysis to obtain a formula to predict perceived hedonic ratings. The applicability of the formula was examined by combining the emotion scores with another 11 taste solutions obtained from another 12 participants of both genders (age range, 22–59 years). The predicted hedonic ratings showed good correlation and concordance with the perceived ratings. To our knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate a model that enables the prediction of hedonic ratings based on emotional facial expressions to food and beverage stimuli.
Perceived stress may mediate the relationship between antenatal depressive symptoms and preterm birth: A pilot observational cohort study
Authors: Lalani Sharifa , Dosani Aliyah , Forcheh Ntonghanwah , Premji Shahirose Sadrudin , Siddiqui Sana , Shaikh Kiran , Mian Ayesha , Yim Ilona S. ,   the Maternal-infant Global Health Team (MiGHT) Collaborators in Research
Published: May 2021

Background

Screening for changes in pregnancy-related anxiety and depressive symptoms during pregnancy may further our understanding of the relationship between these two variables and preterm birth.

Objectives

To determine whether changes in pregnancy-related anxiety and depressive symptoms during pregnancy influence the risk of preterm birth among Pakistani women; explore whether perceived stress moderates or mediates this relationship, and examine the relationship between the various components of pregnancy-related anxiety and preterm birth.

Methods

A prospective cohort study design was used to recruit a diverse sample of 300 low-risk pregnant women from four centers of Aga Khan Hospital for Women and Children in Karachi, Pakistan. Changes in pregnancy-related anxiety and depressive symptoms during pregnancy were tested. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to determine a predictive model for preterm birth. We then determined if the influence of perceived stress could moderate or mediate the effect of depressive symptoms on preterm birth.

Results

Changes in pregnancy-related anxiety (OR = 1.1, CI 0.97–1.17, p = 0.167) and depressive symptoms (OR = 0.9, CI 0.85–1.03, p = 0.179) were insignificant as predictors of preterm birth after adjusting for the effects of maternal education and family type. When perceived stress was added into the model, we found that changes in depressive symptoms became marginally significant after adjusting for covariates (OR = 0.9, CI 0.82–1.01, p = 0.082). After adjusting for the mediation effect of change in perceived stress, the effect of change in depressive symptoms on preterm birth were marginally significant after adjusting for covariates. Among six different dimensions of pregnancy-related anxiety, mother’s concerns about fetal health showed a trend towards being predictive of preterm birth (OR = 1.3, CI 0.97–1.72, p = 0.078).

Conclusions

There may be a relationship between perceived stress and antenatal depressive symptoms and preterm birth. This is the first study of its kind to be conducted in Pakistan. Further research is required to validate these results.
Evaluation of long-term welfare initiatives on working equid welfare and social transmission of knowledge in Mexico
Authors: Haddy Emily , Burden Faith , Fernando-Martínez José Antonio , Legaria-Ramírez Dafne , Raw Zoe , Brown Julia , Kaminski Juliane , Proops Leanne
Published: May 2021

Working equids play an essential role in supporting livelihoods, providing resilience and income security to people around the world, yet their welfare is often poor. Consequently, animal welfare focussed NGOs employ a range of initiatives aimed at improving standards of working equid welfare. However, there is debate surrounding the efficacy of welfare initiatives utilised and long term monitoring and evaluation of initiatives is rarely undertaken. This study compares equid welfare and the social transmission of welfare information across Mexican communities that had previously received differing intervention histories (veterinary treatment plus educational initiatives, veterinary treatment only and control communities) in order to assess their efficacy. Indicators of equid welfare were assessed using the Equid Assessment Research and Scoping tool and included body condition score, skin alterations, lameness, general health status and reaction to observer approach. Owners were interviewed about their involvement in previous welfare initiatives, beliefs regarding equid emotions and pain, and the social transmission of welfare knowledge, including whether they ask advice about their equid or discuss its health with others and whether there is a specific individual that they consider to be ‘good with equids’ in their community. In total 266 owners were interviewed from 25 communities across three states. Better welfare (specifically body condition and skin alteration scores) was seen in communities where a history of combined free veterinary treatment and educational initiatives had taken place compared to those that had only received veterinary treatment or control communities. The social transfer of welfare knowledge was also higher in these communities, suggesting that the discussion and transfer of equid welfare advice within communities can act as a mechanism to disseminate good welfare practices more widely. Our results suggest that using a combined approach may enhance the success of welfare initiatives, a finding that may impact future NGO programming.
Subcuticular sutures versus staples for skin closure in patients undergoing abdominal surgery: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Feng Juntao , Jiang Xiaoli , Zhi Zhifu
Published: May 2021

Background

Surgical site infections (SSIs) are common postoperative complications. Whether the use of staples or sutures makes a difference in abdominal surgery’s infection rate remains elusive.

Methods

A systematic review was performed to identify randomized clinical trials comparing staples and sutures after abdominal surgeries. Eligibility criteria involved the SSI occurrence as the primary outcome and the incidence of wound dehiscence, closure time, cosmesis, and patient satisfaction as the secondary outcomes.

Results

Of the 278 studies identified, seven randomized controlled trials representing 3705 patients were included in this review. There was no significant difference in SSI rates between sutures and staples in general (OR = 0.98, 95% CI = 0.79–1.22, I2 = 44%, P = 0.1) or in a subgroup of gastrointestinal surgery, where subcuticular suturing was found with a comparable SSI risk with skin stapling (OR = 0.85, 95% CI = 0.66–1.09). Staple closure was associated with a shorter surgery duration, whereas sutures appeared to provide better cosmesis and patient satisfaction. Sutures and staples achieved a comparable incidence of dehiscence. There was no significant between-study publication bias.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated similar outcomes in SSI rate between subcuticular sutures and staples for skin closure in patients undergoing abdominal surgery.
SPATS1 (spermatogenesis-associated, serine-rich 1) is not essential for spermatogenesis and fertility in mouse
Authors: Capoano Carlos A. , Ortiz-Laquintana Luis Adrián , Rodríguez-Casuriaga Rosana , Schlapp Geraldine , Meikle María Noel , Mulet Ana Paula , Crispo Martina , Benavente Ricardo , Geisinger Adriana
Published: May 2021

SPATS1 (spermatogenesis-associated, serine-rich 1) is an evolutionarily conserved, testis-specific protein that is differentially expressed during rat male meiotic prophase. Some reports have suggested a link betweenSPATS1underexpression/mutation and human pathologies such as male infertility and testicular cancer. Given the absence of functional studies, we generated aSpats1loss-of-function mouse model using CRISPR/Cas9 technology. The phenotypic analysis showed no overt phenotype inSpats1-/-mice, with both males and females being fertile. Flow cytometry and histological analyses did not show differences in the testicular content and histology between WT and knockout mice. Moreover, no significant differences in sperm concentration, motility, and morphology, were observed between WT and KO mice. These results were obtained both for young adults and for aged animals. Besides, although an involvement of SPATS1 in the Wnt signaling pathway has been suggested, we did not detect changes in the expression levels of typical Wnt pathway-target genes in mutant individuals. Thus, albeitSpats1alteration might be a risk factor for male testicular health, we hereby show that this gene is not individually essential for male fertility and spermatogenesis in mouse.