bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Automatic methods of hoof-on and -off detection in horses using wearable inertial sensors during walk and trot on asphalt, sand and grass
Authors: Briggs Eloise V. , Mazzà Claudia
Published: July 2021

Detection of hoof-on and -off events are essential to gait classification in horses. Wearable sensors have been endorsed as a convenient alternative to the traditional force plate-based method. The aim of this study was to propose and validate inertial sensor-based methods of gait event detection, reviewing different sensor locations and their performance on different gaits and exercise surfaces. Eleven horses of various breeds and ages were recruited to wear inertial sensors attached to the hooves, pasterns and cannons. Gait events detected by pastern and cannon methods were compared to the reference, hoof-detected events. Walk and trot strides were recorded on asphalt, grass and sand. Pastern-based methods were found to be the most accurate and precise for detecting gait events, incurring mean errors of between 1 and 6ms, depending on the limb and gait, on asphalt. These methods incurred consistent errors when used to measure stance durations on all surfaces, with mean errors of 0.1 to 1.16% of a stride cycle. In conclusion, the methods developed and validated here will enable future studies to reliably detect equine gait events using inertial sensors, under a wide variety of field conditions.
Compositional analysis of ruminal bacteria from ewes selected for somatic cell score and milk persistency
Authors: Martinez Boggio Guillermo , Meynadier Annabelle , Daunis-i-Estadella Pepus , Marie-Etancelin Christel
Published: July 2021

Ruminants are dependent on their rumen microbiota to obtain energy from plants. The composition of the microbiome was well-known to be associated with health status, and production traits, but published results are difficult to reproduce due to large sources of variation. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the associations of ruminal microbiota and its association with genetic lines selected by somatic cell score (SCS) or milk persistency (PERS), as well as milk production, somatic cell score, fat and protein contents, and fatty acids and proteins of milk, using the principles of compositional data. A large sample of 700 Lacaune dairy ewes from INRAE La Fage feeding the same diet and belonging to two divergent genetic lines selected for SCS or PERS was used. The ruminal bacterial metagenome was sequenced using the 16S rRNA gene, resulting in 2,059 operational taxonomic units affiliated with 112 genera. The abundance data were centred log-transformed after the replacement of zeros with the geometric Bayesian method. Discriminant analysis of the SCS showed differences between SCS+ and SCS- ewes, while for PERS no difference was obtained. Milk traits as fat content, protein content, saturated fatty acids and caseins of milk were negatively associated withPrevotella(R = [-0.08;-0.16]),Suttonella(R = [-0.09;-0.16]) andRuminococcus(R = [-0.08;-0.16]), and positively associated withLachnospiraceae(R = [0.09;0.16]) andChristensenellaceae(R = [0.09;0.16]). Our findings provide an understanding of the application of compositional data to microbiome analysis, and the potential association ofPrevotella,Suttonella,RuminococcaceaeandLachnospiraceaewith milk production traits such as milk fatty acids and proteins in dairy sheep.
The Mean Unfulfilled Lifespan (MUL): A new indicator of the impact of mortality shocks on the individual lifespan, with application to mortality reversals induced by COVID-19
Authors: Heuveline Patrick
Published: July 2021

Declines in period life expectancy at birth (PLEB) provide seemingly intuitive indicators of the impact of a cause of death on the individual lifespan. Derived under the assumption that future mortality conditions will remain indefinitely those observed during a reference period, however, their intuitive interpretation becomes problematic when period conditions reflect a temporary mortality “shock”, resulting from a natural disaster or the diffusion of a new epidemic in the population for instance. Rather than to make assumptions about future mortality, I propose measuring the difference between a period average age at death and the average expected age at death of the same individuals (death cohort): the Mean Unfulfilled Lifespan (MUL). For fine-grained tracking of the mortality impact of an epidemic, I also provide an empirical shortcut to MUL estimation for small areas or short periods. For illustration, quarterly MUL values in 2020 are derived from estimates of COVID-19 deaths that might substantially underestimate overall mortality change in affected populations. These results nonetheless illustrate how MUL tracks the mortality impact of the pandemic in several national and sub-national populations. Using a seven-day rolling window, the empirical shortcut suggests MUL peaked at 6.43 years in Lombardy, 8.91 years in New Jersey, and 6.24 years in Mexico City for instance. Sensitivity analyses are presented, but in the case of COVID-19, the main uncertainty remains the potential gap between reported COVID-19 deaths and actual increases in the number of deaths induced by the pandemic in some of the most affected countries. Using actual number of deaths rather than reported COVID-19 deaths may increase seven-day MUL from 6.24 to 8.96 years in Mexico City and from 2.67 to 5.49 years in Lima for instance. In Guayas (Ecuador), MUL is estimated to have reached 12.7 years for the entire month of April 2020.
Prevalence of loneliness amongst older people in high-income countries: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chawla Kavita , Kunonga Tafadzwa Patience , Stow Daniel , Barker Robert , Craig Dawn , Hanratty Barbara
Published: July 2021

Background and objective

Loneliness is associated with increased rates of morbidity and mortality, and is a growing public health concern in later life. This study aimed to produce an evidence-based estimate of the prevalence of loneliness amongst older people (aged 60 years and above).

Study design and setting

Systematic review and random-effects meta-analysis of observational studies from high income countries 2008 to 2020, identified from searches of five electronic databases (Medline, EMBASE, PsychINFO, CINAHL, Proquest Social Sciences Premium Collection). Studies were included if they measured loneliness in an unselected population.

Results

Thirty-nine studies reported data on 120,000 older people from 29 countries. Thirty-one studies were suitable for meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence estimate of loneliness was 28.5% (95%CI: 23.9% - 33.2%). In twenty-nine studies reporting loneliness severity, the pooled prevalence was 25.9% (95%CI: 21.6% - 30.3%) for moderate loneliness and 7.9% (95%CI: 4.8% - 11.6%) for severe loneliness (z = -6.1, p < 0.001). Similar pooled prevalence estimates were observed for people aged 65–75 years (27.6%, 95%CI: 22.6% - 33.0%) and over 75 years (31.3%, 95%CI: 21.0% - 42.7%, z = 0.64, p = 0.52). Lower levels of loneliness were reported in studies from Northern Europe compared to South and Eastern Europe.

Conclusions

Loneliness is common amongst older adults affecting approximately one in four in high income countries. There is no evidence of an increase in the prevalence of loneliness with age in the older population. The burden of loneliness is an important public health and social problem, despite severe loneliness being uncommon.

PROSPERO registration

CRD42017060472.
Early alpha/beta oscillations reflect the formation of face-related expectations in the brain
Authors: Roehe Marlen A. , Kluger Daniel S. , Schroeder Svea C. Y. , Schliephake Lena M. , Boelte Jens , Jacobsen Thomas , Schubotz Ricarda I.
Published: July 2021

Although statistical regularities in the environment often go explicitly unnoticed, traces of implicit learning are evident in our neural activity. Recent perspectives have offered evidence that both pre-stimulus oscillations and peri-stimulus event-related potentials are reliable biomarkers of implicit expectations arising from statistical learning. What remains ambiguous, however, is the origination and development of these implicit expectations. To address this lack of knowledge and determine the temporal constraints of expectation formation, pre-stimulus increases in alpha/beta power were investigated alongside a reduction in the N170 and a suppression in peri-/post-stimulus gamma power. Electroencephalography was acquired from naive participants who engaged in a gender classification task. Participants were uninformed, that eight face images were sorted into four reoccurring pairs which were pseudorandomly hidden amongst randomly occurring face images. We found a reduced N170 for statistically expected images at left parietal and temporo-parietal electrodes. Furthermore, enhanced gamma power following the presentation of random images emphasized the bottom-up processing of these arbitrary occurrences. In contrast, enhanced alpha/beta power was evident pre-stimulus for expected relative to random faces. A particularly interesting finding was the early onset of alpha/beta power enhancement which peaked immediately after the depiction of the predictive face. Hence, our findings propose an approximate timeframe throughout which consistent traces of enhanced alpha/beta power illustrate the early prioritisation of top-down processes to facilitate the development of implicitly cued face-related expectations.
Lower serum 25(OH)D levels associated with higher risk of COVID-19 infection in U.S. Black women
Authors: Cozier Yvette C. , Castro-Webb Nelsy , Hochberg Natasha S. , Rosenberg Lynn , Albert Michelle A. , Palmer Julie R.
Published: July 2021

Objective

Limited evidence suggests that higher levels of serum vitamin D (25(OH)D) protect against SARS-CoV-2 virus (COVID-19) infection. Black women commonly experience 25(OH)D insufficiency and are overrepresented among COVID-19 cases. We conducted a prospective analysis of serum 25(OH)D levels in relation to COVID-19 infection among participants in the Black Women’s Health Study.

Methods

Since 1995, the Black Women’s Health Study has followed 59,000 U.S. Black women through biennial mailed or online questionnaires. Over 13,000 study participants provided a blood sample in 2013–2017. 25(OH)D assays were performed in a certified national laboratory shortly after collection of the samples. In 2020, participants who had completed the online version of the 2019 biennial health questionnaire were invited to complete a supplemental online questionnaire assessing their experiences related to the COVID-19 pandemic, including whether they had been tested for COVID-19 infection and the result of the test. We used logistic regression analysis to estimate odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the association of 25(OH)D level with COVID-19 positivity, adjusting for age, number of people living in the household, neighborhood socioeconomic status, and other potential confounders.

Results

Among 5,081 eligible participants whose blood sample had been assayed for 25(OH)D, 1,974 reported having had a COVID-19 test in 2020. Relative to women with 25(OH)D levels of 30 ng/mL (75 nmol/l) or more, multivariable-adjusted ORs for COVID-19 infection in women with levels of 20–29 ng/mL (50–72.5 nmol/l) and <20 ng/mL (<50 nmol/l) were, respectively, 1.48 (95% CI 0.95–2.30) and 1.69 (95% CI 1.04–2.72) (p trend 0.02).

Conclusion

The present results suggest that U.S. Black women with lower levels of 25(OH)D are at increased risk of infection with COVID-19. Further work is needed to confirm these findings and determine the optimal level of 25(OH)D for a beneficial effect.
Impacts of socio-economic determinants, spatial distance and climate factors on the confirmed cases and deaths of COVID-19 in China
Authors: Yang Xiao-Dong , Su Xin-Yi , Li Hong-Li , Ma Ren-Feng , Qi Fang-Jie , Cao Yue-E
Published: July 2021

This study is to assess the influences of climate, socio-economic determinants, and spatial distance on the confirmed cases and deaths in the raise phase of COVID-19 in China. The positive confirmed cases and deaths of COVID-19 over the population size of 100,000 over every 5 consecutive days (the CCOPSPTT and DOPSPTT for short, respectively) covered from 25th January to 29th February, 2020 in five city types (i.e., small-, medium-, large-, very large- and super large-sized cities), along with the data of climate, socio-economic determinants, spatial distance of the target city to Wuhan city (DW, for short), and spatial distance between the target city and their local province capital city (DLPC, for short) were collected from the official websites of China. Then the above-mentioned influencing factors on CCOPSPTT and DOPSPTT were analyzed separately in Hubei and other provinces. The results showed that CCOPSPTT and DOPSPTT were significantly different among five city types outside Hubei province (p < 0.05), but not obviously different in Hubei province (p > 0.05). The CCOPSPTT had significant correlation with socio-economic determinants (GDP and population), DW, climate and time after the outbreak of COVID-19 outside Hubei province (p < 0.05), while was only significantly related with GDP in Hubei province (p < 0.05). The DOPSPTT showed significant correlation with socio-economic determinants, DW, time and CCOPSPTT outside Hubei province (p < 0.05), while was significantly correlated with GDP and CCOPSPTT in Hubei province (p < 0.05). Compared with other factors, socio-economic determinants have the largest relative contribution to variance of CCOPSPTT in all studied cities (> 78%). The difference of DOPSPTT among cities was mainly affected by CCOPSPTT. Our results showed that influences of city types on the confirmed cases and death differed between Hubei and other provinces. Socio-economic determinants, especially GDP, have higher impact on the change of COVID-19 transmission compared with other factors.
Perceived efficacy of existing waterpipe tobacco warning labels versus novel enhanced generic and waterpipe-specific sets
Authors: Mostafa Aya , El Houssinie Moustafa , Hussein Rasha Saad
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Since 2008, Egypt has four existing generic bi-annually rotating warning labels (WLs) on 50% of the waterpipe tobacco packs (WTPs). The Ministry of Health Tobacco Control Unit proposed increasing WL size to 80%, removing colours and flavour imagery from WTPs, and plain packaging to help curb the rising epidemic of waterpipe tobacco smoking. Therefore, we measured the perceived efficacy of existing against novel enhanced (generic and waterpipe-specific) WTP WLs and the associated factors among Egyptian waterpipe smokers and nonsmokers.

Methods

A purposive quota sample of 2014 adults was surveyed in two rounds using face interviews. At each round, participants were randomly shown one of four existing WLs, then one of four novel WLs. Participants rated the perceived efficacy of existing and novel WLs regarding the salience, depth of processing, affective reactions, credibility, relevance, perceived harm and perceived behavioural control. Data were analysed using Generalized Estimating Equations.

Results

Participants rated novel WTP WLs with higher mean perceived efficacy scores than existing WLs for all measures, although both sets collectively scored modestly (59.7; 95% CI: 58.9–60.5 vs 53.0; 95% CI: 52.1–54.0, respectively; p<0.001). Relative to the existing WTP WLs, novel WLs were particularly able to induce higher salience, affective reactions, and depth of processing. Relative to the generic novel WTP WLs, waterpipe-specific WLs induced higher relevance, perceived harm, and affective reactions. Nonsmokers scored higher than waterpipe tobacco smokers, specifically for perceived behavioral control (65.0±32.5 vs 43.6±19.8, respectively; p<0.001). WTP WLs featuring proximal risks, such as dental effects (β = 9.70; 95% CI: 7.00–12.40), fetal harm (β = 9.42; 95% CI: 6.75–12.10), or toxic contents (β = 9.14; 95% CI: 6.58–11.70) were strongly associated with participants’ perceived efficacy scores. Among other independent factors, rural residence (β = 24.09; 95% CI: 22.21–25.97), being a nonsmoker (β = 10.51; 95% CI: 8.92–12.10), survey round 2 (β = 6.96, 95% CI: 5.73–8.19), the novel WTP WL set (β = 6.68; 95% CI: 6.19–7.17), and having higher education (β = 6.31; 95% CI: 4.34–8.27) were highly associated with participants’ perceived efficacy scores.

Conclusions

Waterpipe-specific WLs on plain WTPs that feature proximal risks and address different population subgroups need to be developed in conjunction with awareness raising campaigns on WTS harms to reinforce the credibility of WTP WLs. Our findings suggest the proposed WTP WL enhancements by the Tobacco Control Unit may support a more effective WTP labelling policy within a comprehensive waterpipe-specific tobacco control framework.
Usefulness of several factors and clinical scoring models in preoperative diagnosis of complicated appendicitis
Authors: Fujiwara Kenji , Abe Atsushi , Masatsugu Toshihiro , Hirano Tatsuya , Hiraka Kiyohisa , Sada Masayuki
Published: July 2021

Background

The preoperative distinction between uncomplicated and complicated appendicitis is important to determine the appropriate treatments, such as antibiotics, surgery, or interval appendectomy. Computed tomography (CT) plays an important role; however, combining clinical and imaging factors may make preoperative evaluation more reliable. This study evaluated and analyzed cases and the usefulness of several preoperative factors and clinical scoring models to detect complicated appendicitis.

Methods

A total of 203 patients preoperatively diagnosed with acute appendicitis at our facility were included. Complicated appendicitis was defined as appendicitis with gangrene, perforated appendix, and/or abscess formation. Preoperative factors were collected from published clinical scoring models; patient information, symptoms, signs, results of laboratory tests, and findings of CT. Factors were analyzed using a chi-squared test and the Mann-Whitney U test.

Results

The preoperative factors were compared between 151 uncomplicated and 52 complicated appendicitis patients. The significant factors were age ≥40, duration of symptoms >24 hours, body temperature ≥37.3°C, high levels of CRP, findings in CT scan (appendix diameter ≥10 mm, stranding of the adjacent fat, presence of fluid collection, and suspicion of abscess or perforation). We also evaluated the usefulness of clinical scoring models for the detection of complicated appendicitis and found the Appendicitis Inflammatory Response score and two prediction models (Atema score and Imaoka score) showed significance (p< 0.05). High serum CRP level was significantly associated with complicated appendicitis (p< 0.001), and the predicted existence rates of complicated appendicitis were 52.7% for serum CRP level ≥50mg/L, 74.4% for ≥100mg/L, and 82.6% for ≥150mg/L.

Conclusion

The results demonstrated several preoperative factors and clinical scoring models to increase suspicion of complicated appendicitis. Specifically, high serum levels of CRP may be a useful factor in predicting complicated appendicitis prior to surgery when supported by clinical findings and imaging; however, further research is needed.
Urinary actin, as a potential marker of sepsis-related acute kidney injury: A pilot study
Authors: Ragán Dániel , Kustán Péter , Horváth-Szalai Zoltán , Szirmay Balázs , Bugyi Beáta , Ludány Andrea , Miseta Attila , Nagy Bálint , Mühl Diána
Published: July 2021

Introduction

A major complication of sepsis is the development of acute kidney injury (AKI). Recently, it was shown that intracellular actin released from damaged tissues appears in the urine of patients with multiple organ dysfunction syndrome. Our aims were to measure urinary actin (u-actin) concentrations of septic and control patients and to test if u-actin levels could predict AKI and mortality.

Methods

Blood and urine samples were collected from septic and sepsis-related AKI patients at three time points (T1-3): T1: within 24 hours after admission; T2: second day morning; T3: third day morning of follow-up. Patients with malignancies needing palliative care, end-stage renal disease or kidney transplantation were excluded. Serum and u-actin levels were determined by quantitative Western blot. Patients were categorized by the Sepsis-3 and KDIGO AKI classifications.

Results

In our study, 17 septic, 43 sepsis-induced AKI and 24 control patients were enrolled. U-actin levels were higher in septic patients compared with controls during follow-up (p<0.001). At T1, the septic and sepsis-related AKI groups also showed differences (p<0.001), yet this increase was not statistically significant at T2 and T3. We also detected significantly elevated u-actin concentrations in AKI-2 and AKI-3 septic patients compared with AKI-1 septic patients (p<0.05) at T1 and T3, along with a significant increase in AKI-2 septic patients compared with AKI-1 septic patients at T2 (p<0.01). This tendency remained the same when referring u-actin to urine creatinine. Parameters of first-day septic patient samples could discriminate AKI from non-AKI state (AUC ROC, p<0.001): u-actin: 0.876; se-creatinine: 0.875. Derived cut-off value for u-actin was 2.63 μg/L (sensitivity: 86.0%, specificity: 82.4%).

Conclusion

U-actin may be a complementary diagnostic biomarker to se-creatinine in sepsis-related AKI while higher u-actin levels also seem to reflect the severity of AKI. Further investigations may elucidate the importance of u-actin release in sepsis-related AKI.
The role of interleukin-6 as a prognostic biomarker for predicting acute exacerbation in interstitial lung diseases
Authors: Lee Jae Ha , Jang Ji Hoon , Park Jin Han , Jang Hang-Jea , Park Chan Sun , Lee Sunggun , Kim Seong-Ho , Kim Ji Yeon , Kim Hyun Kuk
Published: July 2021

Background

Interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) are chronic, parenchymal lung diseases with a variable clinical course and a poor prognosis. Within various clinical courses, acute exacerbation (AE) is a devastating condition with significant morbidity and high mortality. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of interleukin-6 (IL-6) to predict AE and prognosis in patients with ILD.

Methods

Eighty-three patients who were diagnosed with ILD from 2016 to 2019 at the Haeundae Paik Hospital, Busan, South Korea, were included and their clinical data were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

The median follow-up period was 20 months. The mean age was 68.1 years and 65.1% of the patients were men with 60.2% of patients being ever-smokers. Among ILDs, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis was the most common disease (68.7%), followed by connective tissue disease-associated ILD (14.5%), cryptogenic organizing pneumonia (9.6%), and nonspecific interstitial pneumonia (6.0%). The serum levels of IL-6 were measured at diagnosis with ILD and sequentially at follow-up visits. During the follow-ups, 15 (18.1%) patients experienced an acute exacerbation (AE) of ILD and among them, four (26.7%) patients died. In the multivariable analysis, high levels of IL-6 (OR 1.014, 95% CI: 1.001–1.027, p = 0.036) along with lower baseline saturations of peripheral oxygen (SpO2) were independent risk factors for AE. In the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, the area under the curve was 0.815 (p < 0.001) and the optimal cut-off value of serum IL-6 to predict AE was 25.20 pg/mL with a sensitivity of 66.7% and specificity of 80.6%. In the multivariable Cox analysis, a high level of serum IL-6 (HR 1.007, 95% CI: 1.001–1.014, p = 0.018) was only an independent risk factor for mortality in ILD patients.

Conclusions

In our study, a high level of serum IL-6 is a useful biomarker to predict AE and poor prognosis in patients with ILD.
Adaptive selection of a prion strain conformer corresponding to established North American CWD during propagation of novel emergent Norwegian strains in mice expressing elk or deer prion protein
Authors: Bian Jifeng , Kim Sehun , Kane Sarah J. , Crowell Jenna , Sun Julianna L. , Christiansen Jeffrey , Saijo Eri , Moreno Julie A. , DiLisio James , Burnett Emily , Pritzkow Sandra , Gorski Damian , Soto Claudio , Kreeger Terry J. , Balachandran Aru , Mitchell Gordon , Miller Michael W. , Nonno Romolo , Vikøren Turid , Våge Jørn , Madslien Knut , Tran Linh , Vuong Tram Thu , Benestad Sylvie L. , Telling Glenn C.
Published: July 2021

Prions are infectious proteins causing fatal, transmissible neurodegenerative diseases of animals and humans. Replication involves template-directed refolding of host encoded prion protein, PrPC, by its infectious conformation, PrPSc. Following its discovery in captive Colorado deer in 1967, uncontrollable contagious transmission of chronic wasting disease (CWD) led to an expanded geographic range in increasing numbers of free-ranging and captive North American (NA) cervids. Some five decades later, detection of PrPSc in free-ranging Norwegian (NO) reindeer and moose marked the first indication of CWD in Europe. To assess the properties of these emergent NO prions and compare them with NA CWD we used transgenic (Tg) and gene targeted (Gt) mice expressing PrP with glutamine (Q) or glutamate (E) at residue 226, a variation in wild type cervid PrP which influences prion strain selection in NA deer and elk. Transmissions of NO moose and reindeer prions to Tg and Gt mice recapitulated the characteristic features of CWD in natural hosts, revealing novel prion strains with disease kinetics, neuropathological profiles, and capacities to infect lymphoid tissues and cultured cells that were distinct from those causing NA CWD. In support of strain variation, PrPSc conformers comprising emergent NO moose and reindeer CWD were subject to selective effects imposed by variation at residue 226 that were different from those controlling established NA CWD. Transmission of particular NO moose CWD prions in mice expressing E at 226 resulted in selection of a kinetically optimized conformer, subsequent transmission of which revealed properties consistent with NA CWD. These findings illustrate the potential for adaptive selection of strain conformers with improved fitness during propagation of unstable NO prions. Their potential for contagious transmission has implications for risk analyses and management of emergent European CWD. Finally, we found that Gt mice expressing physiologically controlled PrP levels recapitulated the lymphotropic properties of naturally occurring CWD strains resulting in improved susceptibilities to emergent NO reindeer prions compared with over-expressing Tg counterparts. These findings underscore the refined advantages of Gt models for exploring the mechanisms and impacts of strain selection in peripheral compartments during natural prion transmission.
Immunomodulatory effect of the combined use of Vetosporin Zh probiotic and Gumi-malysh biologically active additive
Authors: Andreeva Alfia V. , Khakimova Aigul Z. , Ivanov Alexander I. , Nikolaeva Oksana N. , Altynbekov Oleg M.
Published: July 2021

Background and Aim: Various means and methods, including probiotics and biologically active additives, have been developed and proposed for production to increase the immunobiological reactivity of the body, regardless of the etiology of its decrease. This study aimed to find out the immune status of calves during the preweaning period in association with Vetosporin Zh, Normosil, and Gumi-malysh. Materials and Methods: The research object was 30-day-old calves of black-and-white Holstein breed. The calves were divided into four groups of 20 heads each. The calves of the first, second, and third experimental groups were treated with Normosil probiotic, Vetosporin Zh probiotic, and Vetosporin Zh probiotic in combination with Gumi-malysh, respectively. The calves in the first, second, and third experimental groups were treated with Normosil probiotic, Vetosporin Zh probiotic, and Vetosporin Zh probiotic in combination with Gumi-malysh, respectively. Results: On days 10 and 21 of the experiment, animal blood was collected to determine the content of total protein, protein fractions, immunoglobulins, T and B lymphocytes, phagocytic activity and a phagocytic number of neutrophils, and circulating immune complexes (CIC). The combined use of Vetosporin Zh probiotic (dose, 20 mL) with Gumi-malysh (dose, 30 mL) per animal for 30 days in 1-month-old calves contributes to the increase in the number of T lymphocytes, B lymphocytes, and immunoglobulin A (IgA) and immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels by 2.9%, 3.8%, and 0.96 and 2 g/L, respectively, while reducing the immunoglobulin M (IgM) level; an increase in the phagocytic activity of blood neutrophils and the phagocytic number by 7% and 1.8%, respectively, as well as a decrease in the CIC level with similar indicators in calves that were not treated with the agents. Conclusion: The method used in the current study helps increase the number of T and B lymphocytes, increase IgA and IgG levels while reducing IgM levels, and increase the phagocytic activity and a phagocytic number of blood neutrophils, as well as decrease the CIC level.
ASSESSING SERUM CONCENTRATIONS OF 25-HYDROXY-VITAMIN D IN NORTH-WESTERN ITALY
Authors: BASILE M. , CIARDI L. , CRESPI I. , SALIVA E. , BELLOMO G. , VIDALI M.
Published: July 2021

Objectives:Backgound:Most of the published studies on vitamin D levels in Italy have beenperformed in specific age- or disease- subgroups. Few data are available on the status of vitamin D in the adultgeneral population. Objective:We report on vitamin D levels of a large sample of adults from North-WesternItaly. Association with age, sex, and season is also evaluated. Participants:13,110 cases (24% men, 76%women; median age 67 [interquartile range, IQR, 56-77] years old) were collected in the North-Eastern ofPiedmont (Italy). Measurements:25-OH-vitamin D levels were measured by chemiluminescent immunoassay.Results: Median total vitamin D level was 19.9 ng/ml (IQR 11.2-28.8 ng/ml) with up to 3,592 (27.4%) and10,185 (77.7%) subjects respectively below 12 and 30 ng/ml. Vitamin D levels were significantly higher inwomen than in men (20.5 vs 18.1 ng/ml; p<0.001), in summer than in winter (21.4 vs 18.5 ng/ml; p<0.001), andin individuals aged ≤45years or 46-64 years than in those older than 65 years (20.3 and 21.3 vs 18.8 ng/ml). Thelowest mean vitamin D levels were reported during the winter season by men aged ≥65 years (14.7 ng/ml) and46-64 years (16.8 ng/ml). Multivariate analysis confirmed that age (p<0.001), sex (p=0.002), season (p<0.001)and their interaction (p=0.03) were independently associated to vitamin D concentrations. Conclusions:Thisstudy clearly shows that the majority of adult Italian population, living in a sunny and highly urbanized area ofNorth-Western Italy, have an important deficiency in vitamin D. However, these data must be interpreted withcaution if considering the lack of standardization of vitamin D assays.
AGE, OBESITY, SARCOPENIA, AND PROXIMITY TO DEATH EXPLAIN REDUCED MEAN MUSCLE ATTENUATION IN PATIENTS WITH ADVANCED CANCER
Authors: ESFANDIARI N. , GHOSH S. , PRADO C.M.M. , MARTIN L. , MAZURAK V. , BARACOS V.E.
Published: July 2021

Background:Cancer cachexia is characterized by skeletal muscle loss. A feature of muscle wasting,reduction in the mean muscle attenuation from computed tomography images is believed to reflect pathologicalinfiltration of fat into muscle. It is a reported prognostic indicator in cancer patients. Objectives:To develop anexplanatory multivariate model of muscle attenuation of cancer patients incorporating age, sex, diseasecharacteristics, body composition. Time to death ≤92 days was included in the model as the demarcation of end-stage disease. Design:Multivariate general linear model regression analysis of total mean muscle attenuation andchange in muscle attenuation. Setting:Regional cancer center (Alberta, Canada). Participants: Patients withgastrointestinal and respiratory tract cancers (mean age 64±11 years, 44% female). Measurements: Total adiposetissue and skeletal muscle cross sectional area, and mean muscle attenuation at the 3rd lumbar vertebra wereassessed from baseline computed tomography (n=1719), and a subset with repeated measures (n=246 patientswith a total of 871 images). Results:At baseline, muscle attenuation associated with total skeletal muscle (β 0.09;95% CI 0.07 to 0.11; p<0.001) and adipose tissue (β -0.032; 95% CI -0.035 to -0.029; p<0.001) cross sectionalareas, age (β -0.28; 95% CI -0.32 to -0.24; p<0.001), time to death ≤92 days (β -1.9; 95% CI -3.1 to -0.7;p=0.003) and male sex (β -2.3; 95% CI –3.5 to -1.1; p<0.001). Change in muscle attenuation over time associatedwith total adipose tissue cross sectional area (β -0.008; 95% CI -0.012 to -0.004; p<0.001) and time to death ≤92days (β -1.6; 95% CI -3.0 to -0.2; p=0.03). Conclusions:The radiation attenuation of skeletal muscle is lowest inindividuals who are older, less muscular, have a higher fat mass and are within 92 days of death. Men had lowermuscle attenuation than women when controlled for other variables.
GRIP STRENGTH AND GAIT SPEED OF OLDER WOMEN RECEIVING PHYSICAL THERAPY IN A HOME-CARE SETTING
Authors: BOHANNON R.W.
Published: July 2021

Grip strength and gait speed have both been recommended as “vital signs” for older adults. I,therefore, sought to determine the extent to which grip strength and comfortable gait speed were limited andrelated in a sample of older women home-care patients. A retrospective analysis was conducted using archivedinitial therapy records of 33 older women (mean age = 80.7 years) residing in their homes in New England(USA). Demographics, bilateral grip strength and usual gait speed data were extracted from the records. Best gripstrength was 80.1% of its reference norm. Usual gait speed was 38.4% of its reference norm. Significantly morepatients were below reference norm for gait speed. Both measures were significantly less than functionalstandards as well. The measures were not correlated significantly. Grip strength and gait speed are sensitive tolimitations in older women home-care patients, but not equally so.
REASONING ABOUT FRAILTY IN NEUROLOGY: NEUROBIOLOGICAL CORRELATES AND CLINICAL PERSPECTIVES
Authors: CANEVELLI M. , TROILI F. , BRUNO G.
Published: July 2021

To date, the frailty syndrome has surprisingly attracted limited attention in the field of neurology andneuroscience. Nevertheless, several concepts closely related to frailty, such as vulnerability, susceptibility, andhomeostatic reserves, have been increasingly investigated and documented at level of neuronal cells, brainnetworks, and functions. Similarly, several aspects commonly assessed in the neurological practice, includingcognitive functioning and emotional/affective status, clearly appear to be major determinants of the individual’svulnerability and resiliency to stressors. Therefore, they should be carefully considered in the clinical approach tofrail subjects. Moreover, dysfunctions of these domains, if timely detected, may be suitable to be targeted byinterventions providing beneficial effects to the overall health status of the individual. In the present article, wediscuss the neurobiological processes potentially contributing to frailty. Moreover, we reason about the clinicalmanifestations allowing the prompt and easy recognition of frail persons in the neurological practice.
Plant-Microbe Interactions - Insights and Views for Applications in Sustainable Agriculture
Authors: Somavarapu Thomas Anne Sahithi , Pongprayoon Wasinee , Cheenkachorn Kraipat , Sriariyanun Malinee
Published: July 2021

The term “microbiome” refers to the association of plants with various microorganisms which play an important role in the niches they occupy. These microorganisms are found in the endosphere, phyllosphere, and rhizosphere, of host plants which are involved in plant ecology and physiology. The structure and dynamics of the plant microbiome have been significant seen in the last few years. In addition, the plant microbiome enhances the host plant with gene pools, which is referred to as the second plant genome or extended genome. Interestingly, the microbiome associated with plant roots has received unique attention in recent years due to its important role in host nutrition, immunity, and development. Prospective studies of the microbiome have been coupled with the need for more sustainable production for agriculture. On the other hand, various environmental factors are associated with plant-microbiome interactions that can affect composition and diversity. This review provides insights and views of plant microbiome for sustainable agriculture. Host factors that influence the microbial community, root-associated microbial consortium, commercial application, and limitation of plant microbiome were discussed. Also, this review provides current knowledge of the plant microbiome into potential biotechnology products that can be used in agricultural systems. Regardless, microbiome innovation represents the future of sustainable agriculture.
“We are fed up …Being research objects!” negotiating identities and solidarities in militant ethnography
Authors: Sztandara Magdalena
Published: July 2021

This article describes experiences of long-term ethnographic fieldwork on disobedience, disloyalty and dissensus among women in public space in selected (post-)Yugoslav cities. I focus on the opportunities and pitfalls of feminist ethnography and methodology in the context of positionality, engagement and solidarity as essential elements of research into activist networks. In order to problematize the emerging field positionalities and solidarities, I examine the “militant ethnography” methodological approach (Jeffrey Juris), which seeks to move beyond the divide between research practice and politically engaged participation. It is about being among and within the activist network and adopting many identities and roles by constantly shifting between reflective solidarity and analysis. In trying to shed light on the critical self-reflective research process of embodied understandings and experiences, I focus on ethnographic practices embedded in transnational “crowded fields” that encompass the dynamics of relationships and dependencies between knowledge producers.
Flight schedule adjustment for hub airports using multi-objective optimization
Authors: Tao Mei , Ma Lan , Ma Yiming
Published: July 2021

Based on the concept of “passengers self-help hubbing,” we build a flight schedule optimization model where maximizing the number of feasible flight connections, indicating transfer opportunities, as one objective and minimizing total slot displacements as the other objective. At the same time, the “Demand Smoothing Model” is introduced into the flight schedule optimization model to reduce the queuing delays for arrival and departure flights. We take into account all aircraft itineraries, the difficulty level of schedule coordination, and the maximum displacement of any single flight acceptable to airlines when optimizing flight schedule. Given an original schedule, the model produces a feasible modified schedule that obeys the slot limits specified for an airport without canceling any flights, increases transfer opportunities, and improves on-time performance for hub airports while reducing interference with airline scheduling preferences. The model was verified with the operating data of the Urumqi international airport, and the results show that minor adjustments to flight schedules can increase the transfer opportunities of the airport and significantly reduce flight queuing delays.
Multidirectional Speed in Youth Soccer Players: Programming Considerations and Practical Applications
Authors: McBurnie Alistair J. , Parr James , Kelly David M. , Dos'Santos Thomas
Published: July 2021

Multidirectional speed (MDS) can be defined as ‟the competency and capacity to accelerate, decelerate, change direction, and maintain speed in multiple directions and movements, within the context of sport-specific scenarios.” The components of MDS are linear speed, change of direction speed, curvilinear speed, contextual speed, and agility. A MDS development framework is provided for the practitioner who considers the complexities of the growing athlete within a progressive sequence of skill learning and adaptation. Practical examples for each MDS component are provided and discussed within weekly microcycle examples that represent different stages of development for the youth athlete.
“Latinidad Is Cancelled”
Authors: Flores Tatiana
Published: July 2021

Adopting a hemispheric perspective, this essay problematizes the construct of latinidad by foregrounding how it reproduces Black erasure. I argue that “Latin America,” rather than being a geographical designator, is an imagined community that is Eurocentric to the degree that its conceptual boundaries exclude African diaspora spaces. I then turn to understandings of whiteness across borders, contrasting perceptions of racial mixture in the United States and the Hispanophone Americas. Lastly, I examine works by (Afro-)Latinx artists whose nuanced views on race demonstrate the potential of visual representation to provide insight into this complex topic beyond the black-white binary.
Effects of magnesium impregnation on stability and sorption performance of biochar derived from sawdust and corn husks
Authors: Xu Zhao , Chen Ting , Ding Zhuhong , Hu Xin , Nie Guangze
Published: July 2021

Biochar was derived from MgCl2 and MgO pretreated sawdust and corn husks at 300 °C and 600 °C, respectively, to investigate the effects of exogenous minerals on the stability and sorption performance of the resulting biochar. Impregnation with Mg decreased carbon concentration, increased yield and ash concentration, and increased the pH values at the point of zero charge (pHPZC) of the resulting biochar. The chemical stability of biochar oxidized by K2CrO7 was enhanced with increasing pyrolysis temperature and decreased with the pretreatment of MgCl2 and MgO. Mg-impregnation enhanced carbon loss of the resulting biochar and increased the sorption capacity of biochar for CR significantly, which is potentially caused by electrostatic interaction and surface complexation. This study indicates that magnesium-impregnation significantly enhances the sorption performance of anionic contaminants and the pyrolysis temperature has a greater effect on the stability of the resulting biochar than the magnesium-impregnation.
Enhancement of delignification by ionic liquids pretreatment and modification of hardwood kraft pulp in preparation for bleaching
Authors: Peng Jianmin , Yang Guihua , Qi Letian , Liu Jinke , Li Fengfeng , Chen Jiachuan , Lucia Lucian
Published: July 2021

Ionic liquids (ILs) pretreatment is shown to improve the pulp bleachability and modify the physical strength of the hardwood pulp during the oxygen-chlorine dioxide-hydrogen peroxide (ODP) bleaching. The pretreatment enhanced lignin removal in ODP bleaching, resulting in decreased lignin content of the pretreated pulp. The brightness and strength properties were improved. In particular, the folding strength was increased by 153% relative to the control when the pulp was pretreated by [TEA][HSO4]. The analysis of scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction confirmed the enhancement of delignification in ILs pretreatment by the removal of hemicellulose and lignin on pulp fibers’ surface, and the well-preserved fiber framework of the hardwood pulp fibers during ODP-bleaching.
Investigating the impact of weathering and indoor aging on wood acidity using spectroscopic analyses
Authors: Hamed Safa Abdel-Kader Mohamed , Salem Mohamed Z. M. , Ali Hayssam M. , Ahmed Kareem Mohamed El-Sayed
Published: July 2021

A new perspective on the effect of unconditioned indoor (especially storage areas) and outdoor environments on wood acidity is provided in this work. A comparison between the quantity and types of the organic acids formed in the unconditioned indoor environment and different outdoor environments was made. Moreover, the acidity of some wood samples due to different environmental conditions was determined using a pH meter and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) was used to detect the changes in wood components at the molecular level due to environmental conditions. The results suggest that the unconditioned indoor environment was more aggressive than the outdoor environment with respect to wood deterioration. The polluted atmosphere increased the wood acidity and motivated polysaccharide breakdown.
Laminated veneer lumber from spindleless rotary-peeled veneers produced from short rotation, small Hevea plantation logs: Effects of lamination pressure
Authors: Khoo Pui San , Chin Kit Ling , H'ng Paik San , Lee Chuan Li , Bakar Edi Suhaimi , Ashaari Zaidon , Abdullah Luqman Chuah , Gandaseca Seca
Published: July 2021

The invention of spindleless lathe technology has enabled veneers to be produced from small logs, such as logs from short rotation Hevea plantations, with low recovery loss. However, for structural laminated products, such as laminated veneer lumber (LVL), manufacturers are highly selective regarding the veneers for their conventional production. During the peeling process of small logs (< 18 cm), deeper and higher frequency of lathe checks were induced on veneer surface compared to the common log size used (> 30 cm). In this study, spindleless rotary-peeled veneers made from small rubber logs were processed into LVL using different lamination pressures: 7, 8, 9, and 10 kgf/cm2. The effects of lamination pressures on the physical and mechanical properties of the produced LVL were evaluated. Based on the findings, the specific gravity increased from 0.73 to 0.83 with increased lamination pressure. In terms of mechanical properties, all the values increased with lamination pressure, but with a sudden drop with 10 kgf/cm2. Understanding the effect of lamination pressure on the physical and mechanical properties can shed light on optimizing the usage of spindleless rotary-peeled veneers from small logs for the production LVL and other lamination products.
Protective Factors Against Vaping and Other Tobacco Use
Authors: Szoko Nicholas , Ragavan Maya I. , Khetarpal Susheel K. , Chu Kar-Hai , Culyba Alison J.
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Vaping has gained popularity among adolescents despite negative health consequences. Few studies have focused on factors that may protect against vaping. We sought to determine if future orientation, parental monitoring, school connectedness, and social support are associated with decreased risk of vaping and other forms of tobacco use.

METHODS

Data were obtained via anonymous school-based health behavior surveys among ninth- through 12th-graders in Pittsburgh, PA (n = 2487). Protective factors were assessed through validated Likert scale instruments. The primary outcome was recent (past 30-day) vaping. Additional outcomes included other forms of tobacco use and intention to quit tobacco products. Poisson regression models examined associations between protective factors and vaping and tobacco use outcomes.

RESULTS

Mean age was 15.7 years, 1446 (58.1%) respondents were female, and 671 youth (27.0%) reported recent vaping. Positive future orientation and high parental monitoring were associated with significantly lower prevalence of recent vaping (adjusted prevalence ratio: 0.84 [95% confidence interval: 0.73–0.97] and adjusted prevalence ratio: 0.73 [95% confidence interval: 0.62–0.85], respectively). There were no significant relationships between social support or school connectedness and vaping. All 4 protective factors were inversely associated with other forms of tobacco use. No factors were significantly associated with intent to quit tobacco products.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings reveal significant inverse associations between future orientation, parental monitoring, and vaping but no relationship between protective factors and intent to quit tobacco products. Developing interventions to foster protective factors in youth and their parental supports may inform primary prevention efforts to reduce vaping and other tobacco use.