bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrated 16S rDNA Gene Sequencing and Untargeted Metabolomics Analyses to Investigate the Gut Microbial Composition and Plasma Metabolic Phenotype in Calves With Dampness-Heat Diarrhea
Authors: Yan Zunxiang , Zhang Kang , Zhang Kai , Wang Guibo , Wang Lei , Zhang Jingyan , Qiu Zhengying , Guo Zhiting , Song Xiaoping , Li Jianxi
Published: February 2022

Dampness-heat diarrhea (DHD), a common syndrome in Chinese dairy farms, is mainly resulted from digestive system disorders, and accompanied with metabolic disorders in some cases. However, the underlying mechanisms in the intestinal microbiome and plasma metabolome in calves with DHD remain unclear. In order to investigate the pathogenesis of DHD in calves, multi-omics techniques including the 16S rDNA gene sequencing and metabolomics were used to analyze gut microbial compositions and plasma metabolic changes in calves. The results indicated that DHD had a significant effect on the intestinal microbial compositions in calves, which was confirmed by changes in microbial population and distribution. A total of 14 genera were changed, including Escherichia-Shigella, Bacteroides, and Fournierella, in calves with DHD (P < 0.05). Functional analysis based on the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) annotations indicated that 11 metabolic functions (level 2) were significantly enriched in DHD cases. The untargeted metabolomics analysis showed that 440 metabolites including bilineurin, phosphatidylcholine, and glutamate were significantly different between two groups (VIP > 1 and P < 0.05), and they were related to 67 signal pathways. Eight signal pathways including alpha-linolenic acid, linoleic acid, and glycerophospholipid metabolism were significantly enriched (P < 0.05), which may be potential biomarkers of plasma in calves with DHD. Further, 107 pairs of intestinal microbiota-plasma metabolite correlations were determined, e.g., Escherichia-Shigella was significantly associated with changes of sulfamethazine, butyrylcarnitine, and 14 other metabolites, which reflected that metabolic activity was influenced by the microbiome. These microbiota-metabolite pairs might have a relationship with DHD in calves. In conclusion, the findings revealed that DHD had effect on intestinal microbial compositions and plasma metabolome in calves, and the altered metabolic pathways and microorganisms might serve as diagnostic markers and potential therapeutic targets for DHD in calves.
Circulating Endocannabinoids in Canine Multicentric Lymphoma Patients
Authors: Hay Jennifer K. , Hocker Samuel E. , Monteith Gabrielle , Woods J. Paul
Published: February 2022

The endocannabinoid system is increasingly being implicated in the pathogenesis and progression of various human cancers. Specifically, increased levels of 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) and oleoythanolamide (OEA) have been demonstrated in human diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) patients, respectively. The objectives of this paper were to compare 2-AG, OEA, N-arachidonoylethanolamine (AEA), and palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) levels between dogs with multicentric lymphoma and healthy control dogs. In addition, evaluate 2-AG, OEA, AEA, and PEA levels as biomarkers for progression free interval (PFI) and overall survival time (OST) in the dogs with lymphoma. The study consisted of 26 dogs with multicentric B cell lymphoma, 14 dogs with multicentric T cell lymphoma, and 12 healthy control dogs. Serum 2-AG, OEA, AEA, and PEA levels were measured using liquid chromatography combined with tandem mass spectrometry (LC—MS/MS) in dogs with lymphoma and in healthy dogs. OEA, AEA, and PEA levels were significantly elevated in dogs with lymphoma compared to healthy controls (p< 0.05). Total AG was significantly higher in healthy control dogs (p= 0.049). There was no significant difference between dogs with B cell and T cell lymphoma for any of the measured endocannabinoids. Elevated PEA was significantly associated with decreased PFI (p= 0.04) in dogs with lymphoma with a hazards ratio of 1.816 [95% Confidence Interval (CI): 1.020–3.232]. Overall, dogs with lymphoma have elevated levels of OEA, AEA, and PEA. PEA levels have the potential to be a prognostic biomarker.
Primary Care Physicians’ Personal and Professional Attributes Associated With Forgoing Own Care and Presenteeism: A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Cohidon Christine , Mahler Liv , Broers Barbara , Favrod-Coune Thierry , Moussa Amir , Sebo Paul
Published: February 2022

Objective: The aim of this study was to describe the prevalence of forgoing care and forgoing sick leave among primary care physicians (PCPs) in Switzerland and to investigate associated factors.

Methods: A random sample of 1,000 PCPs in French-speaking regions of Switzerland (participation rate: 50%) was asked whether they had forgone care and sick leave during the last year. Sociodemographic, personal and occupational characteristics were recorded. Logistic regressions were performed to study these behaviours.

Results: 37% of respondents reported at least one episode of forgoing care and 29% reported an episode of forgoing sick leave. No associations were found between individual characteristics and forgoing care. A heavy workload was the most common reason evoked for forgoing care. Coming to work when sick (presenteeism) was associated with female sex, younger age, having a chronic illness, working in a suburban area and working full-time.

Conclusion: A high proportion of PCPs in Switzerland is forgoing own care and continues to work despite sickness. New generations of PCPs should require careful monitoring, and specific solutions should be sought to reduce these harmful behaviours.
Prognostic Value of Glasgow Prognostic Score in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhang Chuan-Long , Fan Kui , Gao Meng-Qi , Pang Bo
Published: February 2022

Background: Systemic inflammation is a key factor in tumor growth. The Glasgow Prognostic Score (GPS) has a certain value in predicting the prognosis of lung cancer. However, these results still do not have a unified direction.

Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed to investigate the relationship between GPS and the prognosis of patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We set patients as follows: GPS = 0 vs. GPS = 1 or 2, GPS = 0 vs. GPS = 1, GPS = 0 vs. GPS = 2. We collected the hazard ratio (HR) and the 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results: A total of 21 studies were included, involving 7333 patients. We observed a significant correlation with GPS and poor OS in NSCLC patients (HRGPS=0 vs. GPS=1 or 2 = 1.62, 95% CI: 1.27–2.07, p ≤ .001; HRGPS=0 vs GPS=1 = 2.14, 95% CI:1.31–3.49, p ≤ .001; HRGPS=0 vs. GPS=2 = 2.64, 95% CI: 1.45–4.82, p ≤ .001). Moreover, we made a subgroup analysis of surgery and stage. The results showed that when divided into GPS = 0 group and GPS = 1 or 2 group, the effect of high GPS on OS was more obvious in surgery (HR = 1.79, 95% CI: 1.08–2.97, p = .024). When GPS was divided into two groups (GPS = 0 and GPS = 1 or 2), the III-IV stage, higher GPS is associated with poor OS (HR = 1.73, 95% CI: 1.43–2.09, p ≤ .001). In the comparison of GPS = 0 and GPS = 1 group (HR = 1.56, 95% CI: 1.05–2.31, p = .026) and the grouping of GPS = 0 and GPS = 2(HR = 2.23, 95% CI: 1.17–4.26, p = .015), we came to the same conclusion.

Conclusion: For patients with NSCLC, higher GPS is associated with poor prognosis, and GPS may be a reliable prognostic indicator. The decrease of GPS after pretreatment may be an effective way to improve the prognosis of NSCLC.
Simulation and Model-Based Verification of an Emergency Strategy for Cable Failure in Cable Robots
Authors: Boumann Roland , Bruckmann Tobias
Published: February 2022

Cable failure is an extremely critical situation in the operation of cable-driven parallel robots (CDPR), as the robot might be instantly outside of its predefined workspace. Therefore, the calculation of a cable force distribution might fail and, thus, the controller might not be able to master the guidance of the system anymore. However, as long as there is a remaining set of cables, the dynamic behavior of the system can be influenced to prevent further damage, such as collisions with the ground. The paper presents a feasible algorithm, introduces the models for dynamical multi-body simulation and verifies the algorithm within control loop closure.
Fast Path Planning for Long-Range Planetary Roving Based on a Hierarchical Framework and Deep Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Hu Ruijun , Zhang Yulin
Published: February 2022

The global path planning of planetary surface rovers is crucial for optimizing exploration benefits and system safety. For the cases of long-range roving or obstacle constraints that are time-varied, there is an urgent need to improve the computational efficiency of path planning. This paper proposes a learning-based global path planning method that outperforms conventional searching and sampling-based methods in terms of planning speed. First, a distinguishable feature map is constructed through a traversability analysis of the extraterrestrial digital elevation model. Then, considering planning efficiency and adaptability, a hierarchical framework consisting of step iteration and block iteration is designed. For the planning of each step, an end-to-end step planner named SP-ResNet is proposed that is based on deep reinforcement learning. This step planner employs a double-branch residual network for action value estimation, and is trained over a simulated DEM map collection. Comparative analyses with baselines demonstrate the prominent advantage of our method in terms of planning speed. Finally, the method is verified to be effective on real lunar terrains using CE2TMap2015.
A Robust Reacting Flow Solver with Computational Diagnostics Based on OpenFOAM and Cantera
Authors: Zhou Dezhi , Zhang Hongyuan , Yang Suo
Published: February 2022

In this study, we developed a new reacting flow solver based on OpenFOAM (OF) and Cantera, with the capabilities of (i) dealing with detailed species transport and chemistry, (ii) integration using a well-balanced splitting scheme, and (iii) two advanced computational diagnostic methods. First of all, a flaw of the original OF chemistry model to deal with pressure-dependent reactions is fixed. This solver then couples Cantera with OF so that the robust chemistry reader, chemical reaction rate calculations, ordinary differential equations (ODEs) solver, and species transport properties handled by Cantera can be accessed by OF. In this way, two transport models (mixture-averaged and constant Lewis number models) are implemented in the coupled solver. Finally, both the Strang splitting scheme and a well-balanced splitting scheme are implemented in this solver. The newly added features are then assessed and validated via a series of auto-ignition tests, a perfectly stirred reactor, a 1D unstretched laminar premixed flame, a 2D counter-flow laminar diffusion flame, and a 3D turbulent partially premixed flame (Sandia Flame D). It is shown that the well-balanced property is crucial for splitting schemes to accurately capture the ignition and extinction events. To facilitate the understanding on combustion modes and complex chemistry in large scale simulations, two computational diagnostic methods (conservative chemical explosive mode analysis, CCEMA, and global pathway analysis, GPA) are subsequently implemented in the current framework and used to study Sandia Flame D for the first time. It is shown that these two diagnostic methods can extract the flame structure, combustion modes, and controlling global reaction pathways from the simulation data.
Atmospheric Disturbance Modelling for a Piloted Flight Simulation Study of Airplane Safety Envelope over Complex Terrain
Authors: Liu Xinying , Abà Anna , Capone Pierluigi , Manfriani Leonardo , Fu Yongling
Published: February 2022

A concept of a new energy management system synthesizing meteorological and orographic influences on airplane safety envelope was developed and implemented at the ZHAW Centre for Aviation. A corresponding flight simulation environment was built in a Research and Didactics Simulator (ReDSim) to test the first implementation of the cockpit display system. A series of pilot-in-the-loop flight simulations were carried out with a group of pilots. A general aviation airplane model Piper PA-28 was modified for the study. The environment model in the ReDSim was modified to include a new ad hoc subsystem simulating atmospheric disturbance. In order to generate highly resolved wind fields in the ReDsim, a well-established large-eddy simulation model, the Parallelized Large-Eddy Simulation (PALM) framework, was used in the concept study, focusing on a small mountainous region in Switzerland, not far from Samedan. For a more realistic representation of specific meteorological situations, PALM was driven with boundary conditions extracted from the COSMO-1 reanalysis of MeteoSwiss. The essential variables (wind components, temperature, and pressure) were extracted from the PALM output and fed into the subsystem after interpolation to obtain the values at any instant and any aircraft position. Within this subsystem, it is also possible to generate statistical atmospheric turbulence based on the widely used Dryden turbulence model. The paper compares two ways of generating atmospheric turbulence, by combining the numerical method with the statistical model and introduces the flight test procedure with an emphasis on turbulence realism; it then presents the experiment results including a statistical assessment achieved by collecting pilot feedback on turbulence characteristics and turbulence/task combination.
Soil Aeration and Plastic Film Mulching Increase the Yield Potential and Quality of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)
Authors: Li Yuan , Zhang Zhenxing , Wang Jingwei , Zhang Mingzhi
Published: February 2022

Soil aeration and plastic film mulching have been reported to accelerate plant growth and increase fruit yield by improving the rhizosphere soil–air environment. The aim of this study was to investigate plant growth, fruit yield, irrigation water-use efficiency (IWUE) and fruit quality in response to a micro/nano-bubble aeration (MNBA) system and a subsurface artificial air layer aeration system (SAALA) under different treatments. The results indicated that both MNBA and SAALA positively influenced the plant dry weight, fruit yield, IWUE and fruit quality. In comparison with the no aeration treatment, the MNBA treatment increased the dry matter accumulation, fruit yield, IWUE, lycopene content and soluble protein content by 7.1%, 9.0%, 7.1%, 6.2% and 16.2%, respectively. Plastic film mulching (PFM) significantly improved the total dry weight, fruit yield and IWUE during both seasons. The increased yield in response to soil aeration during autumn was significantly greater than that during spring, and the yield increase in response to PFM was significantly greater in spring than in autumn. Moreover, the nutrition indices in response to both soil aeration and PFM were more significant during spring than autumn. Taking into account costs, efficiency and benefits, the optimal treatment was the MNBA and full (F) PFM combination.
The Impact of Dormancy Breakers on Hormone Profiles, Fruit Growth and Quality in Sweet Cherry
Authors: Bound Sally A. , Foo Eloise , Gélinas-Marion Ariane , Nichols David S. , Nissen Robert
Published: February 2022

Chemical dormancy breakers are often used to manipulate floral bud break in sweet cherry production, and their use is increasing due to unpredictable climate effects. The role of plant hormones in regulating the critical transition of floral buds from dormant to opening in deciduous trees is now emerging. By monitoring changes in endogenous hormone levels within floral buds that are undergoing the transition from dormant to the growing state in response to various cues (environmental and/or chemical inducers), we can begin to distinguish the plant hormones that are the drivers of this process. This study sought to identify key hormonal regulators of floral bud break using sweet cherry as a model and modifying timing of bud break through the application of two chemical dormancy breakers, hydrogen cyanamide (HC, Dormex®) and emulsified vegetable oil compound (EVOC, Waiken®), and to determine the effect of these chemicals on fruit growth and quality. Treatments were applied at label rates 35–40 days before estimated bud break. We found that HC-treated tree buds broke earlier, and this was associated with a significant early elevation of the cytokinins dihydrozeatin and dihydrozeatin riboside compared to the control and EVOC-treated tree buds. In contrast, changes in auxin and abscisic acid content did not appear to explain the hastened bud burst induced by hydrogen cyanamide. While HC-treated trees resulted in larger fruit, there was a higher incidence of cracked fruit and the pack-out of A-grade fruit was reduced. The increase in fruit size was attributed to the earlier flowering and hence longer growing period. Harvest assessment of fruit quality showed no treatment effect on most quality parameters, including fruit dry matter content, total soluble solids or malic acid content, but a reduction in fruit compression firmness and stem pull force in EVOC-treated trees was observed. However, all fruit still met the Australian industry fruit quality export market standards. This study offers important insights into bud hormonal activities underpinning the action of these chemical regulators; understanding bud responses is critically important to ensuring consistent and sustainable fruit tree production systems into the future. It also demonstrates that the dormancy-breaking agents HC and EVOC have no detrimental impact on fruit quality at harvest or following storage, however growers need to be aware of the potential for increased fruit cracking when earlier bud break results in a longer growing season which has the potential to increase fruit size. Further studies are required to determine the role of gibberellin in hastening bud break by dormancy breakers.
The Combined Application of Mineral Fertilizer and Organic Amendments Improved the Stability of Soil Water-Stable Aggregates and C and N Accumulation
Authors: Mi Wenhai , Chen Chao , Ma Yingying , Guo Shaokang , Liu Mingyue , Gao Qiang , Wu Qicong , Zhao Haitao
Published: February 2022

Soil aggregate stability is one of the important physical properties affecting rice (Oryza sativa L.) production and soil sustainability. This study was undertaken to evaluate the influence of different medium-term fertilization regimes on soil aggregate stability and aggregate-associated carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) in rhizosphere and bulk soil. This experiment consisted of three treatments, including mineral fertilizer alone (NPK), mineral fertilizer plus rice straw (NPK + RS), and controlled-release blended fertilizer plus cattle manure (CRF + CM). Although higher fertilizer costs were in the CRF + CM treatments, one-time application could save labor costs compared to the conventional split application of chemical fertilizers. The results showed that, compared to the NPK alone, the combined application of NPK with organic amendments improved the proportion of >0.25 mm macroaggregate, soil organic carbon (SOC), total nitrogen (TN) concentrations, and mean weight diameter (MWD) in both rhizosphere and bulk soil during the whole rice growing season. In rhizosphere, the proportion of macroaggregate was significantly positively (p < 0.01) correlated with root biomass while it had no significant correlation with SOC in the proportion of all sizes of aggregates. By contrast, bulk soil had a significantly (p < 0.01) positive relationship between the proportion of >2 mm class and organic C associated with smaller particle-sized aggregates (0.25–2 mm and <0.25 mm). In addition, the organic C associated with 0.25–2 mm showed the largest contribution of the total SOC content in all treatments during the rice growing stage. Overall, the results suggested that the medium-term application of mineral fertilizer with organic amendments was beneficial to improve soil aggregate stability and C and N accumulation.
Effects of CO2 Enrichment on Yield, Photosynthetic Rate, Translocation and Distribution of Photoassimilates in Strawberry ‘Sagahonoka’
Authors: Tagawa Ai , Ehara Megumi , Ito Yuusuke , Araki Takuya , Ozaki Yukio , Shishido Yoshihiro
Published: February 2022

The method of automatically controlling the CO2 concentration in a greenhouse depending on ventilation was examined in order to efficiently improve the productivity of strawberries under the weather conditions in the northern part of Kyushu in Japan. The effects of CO2 enrichment on the yields, fruit Brix, and economic value of the strawberry ‘Sagahonoka’ were investigated. In addition, in order to clarify the physiological response of ‘Sagahonoka’ to the CO2 concentration, the photosynthetic rate, translocation, and photoassimilate distribution rate were measured. It was found that maintaining the CO2 concentrations above 800 μmol mol−1 and 400 μmol mol−1 during no ventilation and ventilation, respectively, resulted in 25% increases in marketable fruit yields and a 0.2–1.2% higher fruit Brix compared to control, which was kept in 400 μmol mol−1 CO2 or above all day regardless of ventilation. Additionally, the economic value of ‘Sagahonoka’ was increased. The photosynthetic rate of ‘Sagahonoka’ increased linearly up to 800 μmol mol−1 CO2, and high CO2 concentrations affected the distribution for the primary fruit, the most significant sink. It was clarified that CO2 enrichment at 800 μmol mol−1 for ‘Sagahonoka’ was effective in increasing the photosynthetic rate and distribution of photoassimilates to fruits, and the yields of strawberries could be increased efficiently by automatically controlling the CO2 concentration depending on ventilation in a southern region of Japan.
In Vitro Organogenesis of Critically Endangered Lachenalia viridiflora
Authors: Maślanka Małgorzata , Mazur Justyna , Kapczyńska Anna
Published: February 2022

Micropropagation via organogenesis of Lachenalia viridiflora W. F. Barker, a native endangered plant from South Africa, is presented in this study. Leaves, collected from in vivo plants, were a source for culture initiation to obtain three types of explants (leaf, bulb, callus). They were grown on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with two concentrations of sucrose (3 or 6%, marked as S3 and S6) and different concentrations of benzylaminopurine (BA) (0.0–5.0 μM) and naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) (0.0–0.5 μM). The results demonstrated that bulbing was more efficient on media with 3% sucrose and this process was closely related to explant type—irrespective of media type twice more adventitious bulbs (5.1–5.6) were regenerated on leaf and bulb explants than on callus (2.6). The highest value of adventitious bulb number was recorded for interaction: leaf × S3/2.5 BA/0.5 NAA (9.3 bulbs per explant). Irrespective of media type, the higher the number of adventitious bulbs (obtained from leaf and bulb explants), the lower their diameter. Moreover, adventitious bulbs regenerated from bulb explants formed the longest leaves (18.9 mm) and in the greatest percentage (52.3%). The highest biomass weight increase indicator (50 times) was recorded for interaction: leaf × S6/2.5 BA/0.25 NAA. Various combinations of plant growth regulators favor biomass increase.
Spatial Variation and Influencing Factors of Trace Elements in Farmland in a Lateritic Red Soil Region of China
Authors: Zou Runyan , Zhang Yuting , Hu Yueming , Wang Lu , Xie Yingkai , Liu Luo , Yang Hao , Liao Jie
Published: February 2022

Trace elements in farmland soil are important indicators of soil quality and farmland health, and also maintain the nutrient balance and promote the healthy growth of plants. In this study, taking Conghua District of Guangzhou city as the study area, the effects of topography, soil, land use, and other factors on trace elements in soil were investigated, and the spatial variability of boron (B), manganese (Mn), molybdenum (Mo), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn) in farmland soil in a typical red soil region were mapped using a geographically weighted regression (GWR) method. The pH and land economic index (LEI) were important factors affecting the changes in trace element concentrations in the five soils, and the Cu and Zn concentrations were clearly affected by human factors. In the study area, 86.99% of B measurements were classified as low and very low levels, 50.61% and 49.20% of Mo measurements were also low and very low, 71.79% of Mn measurements were classified as moderate, while 91.02% of Cu and 52.95% of Zn measurements were classified as high. After a cross validation, the GWR Kriging (GWRK) model results of each element were relatively stable, and the order of the fitting coefficient (R2) was Cu > Zn > B> Mn > Mo. This study clarifies the spatial distribution and influencing factors of soil microelements in the studied region. This information can be used to improve the nutrient imbalance, further guide agricultural production, strengthen the management of farmland, and improve the healthy productivity of cultivated land.
No Tillage Increases SOM in Labile Fraction but Not Stable Fraction of Andosols from a Long-Term Experiment in Japan
Authors: Aduhene-Chinbuah Jeannette , Sugihara Soh , Komatsuzaki Masakazu , Nishizawa Tomoyasu , Tanaka Haruo
Published: February 2022

No tillage (NT) fosters carbon (C) sequestration, increases soil organic matter (SOM) stock, and improves soil health. However, its effect on SOM accumulation in Andosol, which has high OM stabilization characteristics due to its specific mineral properties, remains unclear. In this study, we evaluated the effect of NT on SOM content and its distribution by the physical fractionation method and assessed the quality of accumulated SOM in each fraction. We collected soil samples at 0–2.5, 2.5–7.5, and 7.5–15 cm depths from NT and conventional tillage (CT) plots in a long-term (19 years) field experiment of Andosols in Ibaraki, Japan. The soil samples were separated into light fraction (LF), coarse-POM (cPOM: 0.25–2 mm), fine-POM (fPOM: 0.053–0.25 mm), and silt + clay (mOM: <0.053 mm). The C, nitrogen (N), and organic phosphorus (Po) contents of each fraction were analyzed. The C content of cPOM and fPOM in NT at 0–7.5 cm was higher than in CT, while there was no clear difference in the mOM fraction or deeper layer (7.5–15 cm). NT increased the C, N, and Po contents in the labile POM fractions at the surface layers but did not increase the stable fraction or change the quality.
Pattern of Antibiotic Dispensing at Pharmacies According to the WHO Access, Watch, Reserve (AWaRe) Classification in Bangladesh
Authors: Islam Md. Ariful , Akhtar Zubair , Hassan Md. Zakiul , Chowdhury Sukanta , Rashid Md. Mahbubur , Aleem Mohammad Abdul , Ghosh Probir Kumar , Mah-E-Muneer Syeda , Parveen Shahana , Ahmmed Md. Kaousar , Ahmed Md. Shakil , Basher Ahamed Khairul , Palit Anik , Biswas Md Abdullah Al Jubayer , Khan Zobaid , Islam Khaleda , Debnath Nitish , Rahman Mahmudur , Chowdhury Fahmida
Published: February 2022

The WHO Essential Medicines List Access, Watch, and Reserve (AWaRe) classification could facilitate antibiotic stewardship and optimal use. In Bangladesh, data on antibiotic dispensing in pharmacies according to the AWaRe classification are scarce. We aimed to explore antibiotic dispensing pattern in pharmacies according to the WHO AWaRe classification to aid pharmacy-targeted national antibiotic stewardship program (ASP). From January to July 2021, we interviewed drug-sellers from randomly selected pharmacies and randomly selected customers attending the pharmacies. We collected data on demographics and medicines purchased. We classified the purchased antibiotics into the Access, Watch, and Reserve groups among 128 pharmacies surveyed, 98 (76.6%) were licensed; 61 (47.7%) drug-sellers had pharmacy training. Of 2686 customers interviewed; 580 (21.6%) purchased antibiotics. Among the 580 customers, 523 purchased one, 52 purchased two, and 5 purchased three courses of antibiotics (total 642 courses). Of the antibiotic courses, the Watch group accounted for the majority (344, 53.6%), followed by the Access (234, 36.4%) and Reserve (64, 10.0%) groups. Approximately half of the antibiotics (327/642, 50.9%) were purchased without a registered physician’s prescription. Dispensing of non-prescribed antibiotics was higher in the Access group (139/234, 59.4%), followed by Watch (160/344, 46.5%) and Reserve (28/64, 43.8%) groups. These findings highlight the need to implement strict policies and enforce existing laws, and pharmacy-targeted ASP focusing on proper dispensing practices to mitigate antimicrobial resistance in Bangladesh.
Significant Difference in Antimicrobial Resistance of Bacteria in Septic Revision between Total Knee Arthroplasty and Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Stevoska Stella , Himmelbauer Felix , Stiftinger Julian , Stadler Christian , Pisecky Lorenz , Gotterbarm Tobias , Klasan Antonio
Published: February 2022

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) aggravates the already difficult treatment of periprosthetic joint infections (PJI). Due to many factors influencing AMR, the correct choice of antimicrobial management remains arguable. The primary purpose of this retrospective study was to identify and compare bacteria and their antibiotic resistance profile between septic revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and septic revision total hip arthroplasty (THA). A review of all revision TKAs and revision THAs, undertaken between 2007 and 2020 in a tertiary referral hospital, was performed. Included were cases meeting the consensus criteria for PJI, in which an organism has been identified. There were no major differences in tissue sampling between revision TKAs and revision THAs over time. A total of 228 bacterial strains, isolated after revision TKA and THA, were analysed for their resistance to 20 different antibiotics. There was a statistically significant higher occurrence of Gram-negative bacteria identified after revision THAs compared to TKA (p = 0.002). The comparison of antibiotic resistance between revision TKAs and revision THAs was statistically significant in 9 of 20 analysed antibiotics. This has implications for the choice of empirical antibiotic in revision surgery as well as prophylactic antibiotic in primary surgery, depending on the joint that is to be replaced.
Metabolic Disorders in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis B Virus Infection: Coffee as a Panacea? (ANRS CO22 Hepather Cohort)
Authors: Barré Tangui , Fontaine Hélène , Pol Stanislas , Ramier Clémence , Di Beo Vincent , Protopopescu Camelia , Marcellin Fabienne , Bureau Morgane , Bourlière Marc , Dorival Céline , Petrov-Sanchez Ventzislava , Asselah Tarik , Delarocque-Astagneau Elisabeth , Larrey Dominique , Duclos-Vallée Jean-Charles , Carrat Fabrice , Carrieri Patrizia ,   on behalf of the ANRS/AFEF Hepather Study Group
Published: February 2022

People living with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection are at high risk of liver disease progression, which is positively associated with metabolic disorders, but inversely associated with dyslipidemia. Diet, including dietary antioxidants, is a lever of metabolic disorder management. In particular, elevated coffee consumption is associated with different metabolic outcomes in the general population. We aimed to test whether such associations occur in HBV-infected people. Based on cross-sectional data from the ANRS CO22 Hepather cohort, we performed logistic regression models with (i) dyslipidemia, (ii) hypertension, and (iii) diabetes as outcomes, and with demographic, clinical, and socio-behavioral (including coffee consumption) data as explanatory variables. Among 4746 HBV-infected patients, drinking ≥3 cups of coffee per day was associated with a higher risk of dyslipidemia (adjusted odds ratio [95% confidence interval] 1.49 [1.10–2.00], p = 0.009) and a lower risk of hypertension (0.64 [0.50–0.82], p = 0.001). It was not associated with diabetes. Elevated coffee consumption was associated with a higher risk of dyslipidemia and a lower risk of hypertension in HBV-infected patients, two effects expected to be associated with favorable clinical outcomes. Further studies should test whether such metabolic benefits translate into reduced mortality risk in this population.
Potential for Prebiotic Stabilized Cornus mas L. Lyophilized Extract in the Prophylaxis of Diabetes Mellitus in Streptozotocin Diabetic Rats
Authors: Sip Szymon , Szymanowska Daria , Chanaj-Kaczmarek Justyna , Skalicka-Woźniak Krystyna , Budzyńska Barbara , Wronikowska-Denysiuk Olga , Słowik Tymoteusz , Szulc Piotr , Cielecka-Piontek Judyta
Published: February 2022

As a systemic disease, diabetes mellitus (DM) is characterized by the disruption of many glucose metabolic pathways. Therefore, it seems critical to study new therapies to support treatment to develop therapeutic systems that can operate across a broad metabolic spectrum. The current state of knowledge indicates an essential role of the gut microbiota in the development and course of the disease. Cornus mas fruits have demonstrated a rich biological activity profile and potential for application in the treatment of DM. As part of a preliminary analysis, the activity of four cultivars of Cornus mas fruits was analyzed. The cultivar Wydubieckij was selected as having the highest activity in in vitro conditions for further prebiotic system preparation. The study aimed to develop a unique therapeutic system based, first of all, on the mechanism of α-glucosidase inhibition and the antioxidant effect resulting from the activity of the plant extract used, combined with the prebiotic effect of inulin. The obtained system was characterized in vitro in terms of antioxidant activity and enzyme inhibition capacity, and was then tested on diabetic rats. The study was coupled with an analysis of changes in the intestinal microflora. The system of prebiotic stabilized Cornus mas L. lyophilized extract with inulin offers valuable support for the prophylaxis and treatment of DM.
Inhibition Mechanism of Components Isolated from Morus alba Branches on Diabetes and Diabetic Complications via Experimental and Molecular Docking Analyses
Authors: Kwon Ryeong-Ha , Thaku Niha , Timalsina Binod , Park Se-Eun , Choi Jae-Sue , Jung Hyun-Ah
Published: February 2022

Previously, we reported the anti-diabetic effect of Morus alba root bark and the compounds therein. In our continuous study of other parts of this plant, the ability of the branch of Morus alba to inhibit α-glucosidase, protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B), and advanced glycation end products (AGEs) formation was evaluated. Moreover, there are no previous studies that have performed enzyme kinetics and molecular docking analyses, along with assessments of peroxynitrite (ONOO−) inhibitory activities. Since the Morus alba branch exhibited favorable inhibitory effects, repeated column chromatography was performed to obtain eight compounds, including four flavonoids (1, 3, 6, 8), one arylbenzofuran (2), one stilbene (5), one Diels–Alder-type adduct (7), and one sterol (4). Among them, compounds 1–3 and 5–7 were mixed-type inhibitors of α-glucosidase, sharing the same catalytic residues with acarbose and the same allosteric sites with (Z)-3-bytylidenephthalide. On the other hand, kuwanon C (1) and oxyresveratrol (5) interacted with residues of the allosteric site (α3 and α6 helices) of PTP1B, indicating their use as non-competitive inhibitors. Interestingly, kuwanon G (7) directly bound the catalytic site, or interrupted the binding between the substrate and the active site, as a mixed-type inhibitor. Moreover, most of the compounds exhibited greater activity against AGE formation and ONOO− than positive controls. The IC50 values required to inhibit ONOO− using compounds 1, 3, 5, 6, and 7 were reported for the first time, and range from 1.08 to 12.92 μM. Based on the structure–activity relationship, the presence of hydroxyl, resorcinol, and prenyl moieties was important in the prevention of diabetes’ pathological mechanisms, and these findings have been further supported by molecular docking analysis. These computational and experimental results will be useful in the development of therapeutic candidates to prevent/treat diabetes and its complications.
An Exogenous Pre-Storage Melatonin Alleviates Chilling Injury in Some Mango Fruit Cultivars, by Acting on the Enzymatic and Non-Enzymatic Antioxidant System
Authors: Bhardwaj Renu , Pareek Sunil , Domínguez-Avila J. Abraham , Gonzalez-Aguilar Gustavo A. , Valero Daniel , Serrano Maria
Published: February 2022

Melatonin (MT) treatment (100 µM, 2 h) was applied to four mango fruit cultivars (‘Langra’, ‘Chaunsa’, ‘Dashehari’, and ‘Gulab Jamun’), before being stored at 5 ± 1 °C for 28 d, in order to alleviate chilling injury (CI). Maximum CI reduction was observed in ‘Langra’ mangoes, and minimum in ‘Gulab Jamun’ mangoes. This positive effect on quality preservation was associated with an increased concentration of endogenous MT, which prevented the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (H2O2 and O2·−) and stimulated non-enzymatic antioxidants (total phenolic compounds and total flavonoids), possibly due to higher activity of phenylalanine ammonia lyase and tyrosine ammonia lyase. Increased antioxidant activity was also documented in MT-treated ‘Langra’ mangoes, according to four different assays (DPPH, TEAC, FRAP, and CUPRAC) and higher activity of six antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidase, ascorbate peroxidase, glutathione reductase, and dehydroascorbate reductase). In contrast, ‘Gulab Jamun’ mangoes showed minimal or no positive effects on the aforementioned variables in response to the exogenous MT application. ‘Chaunsa’ and ‘Dashehari’ mangoes had some intermediate effects on their antioxidant system (enzymatic and non-enzymatic) and alleviation of CI, when treated with exogenous MT. We conclude that exogenous MT exerts a cultivar-dependent stimulating effect on the antioxidant system of mangoes, which results in an increase in the fruits’ resistance to low temperature.
GRASP Optimization for the Strip Packing Problem with Flags, Waste Functions, and an Improved Restricted Candidate List
Authors: Oviedo-Salas Edgar , Terán-Villanueva Jesús David , Ibarra-Martínez Salvador , Santiago-Pineda Alejandro , Ponce-Flores Mirna Patricia , Laria-Menchaca Julio , Castán-Rocha José Antonio , Treviño-Berrones Mayra Guadalupe
Published: February 2022

This research addresses the two-dimensional strip packing problem to minimize the total strip height used, avoiding overlapping and placing objects outside the strip limits. This is an NP-hard optimization problem. We propose a greedy randomized adaptive search procedure (GRASP), incorporating flags as a new approach for this problem. These flags indicate available space after accommodating an object; they hold the available width and height for the following objects. We also propose three waste functions as surrogate objective functions for the GRASP candidate list and use and enhanced selection for the restricted candidate list, limiting the object options to better elements. Finally, we use overlapping functions to ensure that the object fits in the flag because there are some cases where a flag’s width can be wrong due to new object placement. The tests showed that our proposal outperforms the most recent state-of-the-art metaheuristic. Additionally, we make comparisons against two exact algorithms and another metaheuristic.
Development and Trial of a Prototype Device for Sensorimotor Therapy in Patients with Distal Radius Fractures
Authors: Narita Daichi , Hamaguchi Toyohiro , Nakamura-Thomas Hiromi
Published: February 2022

This study examined the clinical feasibility of a prototype device (development name: Ghost) for facilitating range of motion (RoM) recovery in the acute phase in patients with distal radius fractures (DRF). The Ghost device involves the administration of a combination of vibratory and visual stimuli. We divided the patients into the Ghost (n = 10) and control group (n = 4; tendon vibration only) groups. The experimental interventions were administered between the day after surgery and day 7 postoperatively. Traditional hand therapy was provided to both groups once daily from day 7 until day 84 postoperatively and once a week from day 84 until the end of the intervention period. Because vibratory stimulation makes the patient focus on wrist flexion, the primary outcome was the arc of wrist flexion-extension on the injured side, which was measured on days 7, 14, 28, 42, 56, 70, and 84. Analysis of covariance was applied using a bootstrap method to evaluate changes over time and compare them between the groups. Analyses was performed after stratification by age and body mass index. Both interventions improved RoM over time in patients with DRF. Results showed that Ghost has greater efficacy for improving wrist RoM in DRF patients than vibration alone. Treatment with Ghost can result in good RoM improvement during the acute phase of DRF in young patients and those with and normal or low body mass index. Further study is needed to verify our findings and assess the extent of RoM recovery.
Removal of Accumulated Hard Tissue Debris (AHTD) from Root Canals with an Electric Current Device: A MicroCT Preliminary Report
Authors: Mancini Manuele , Cianconi Giovanni , Bedini Rossella , Pecci Raffaella , Cianconi Luigi , Pasquantonio Guido
Published: February 2022

In modern endodontics, removal of accumulated hard tissue debris (AHTD) from root canals is requested. In the last decade, different irrigating solutions and activation methods have been successfully tested. Sonic activation has been shown to be effective in the removal of AHTD. Electric current has been tested before in restorative dentistry, but not in endodontics. An experimental electric current delivering device was compared in the removal of AHTD, using microCT analyses. Fifteen single-rooted teeth were shaped with TruNatomy system endodontic files and divided into three groups: negative control group: specimens underwent no activation; EA group: specimens were activated with EndoActivator (EA); EB group: specimens were activated with ElectroBond (EB). The 2D images, 3D images and morphometric analysis from the microCT showed a statistically significant increased AHTD removal when EB was used. Results of the present preliminary study showed that the irrigant activation with ElectroBond is encouraging when compared to EndoActivator along the entire root canal system. The AHTD was significantly statistically reduced, validating the clinical use of electric fields in endodontics.
MATLAB Analysis of SP Test Results—An Unusual Parasympathetic Nervous System Activity in Low Back Leg Pain: A Case Report
Authors: Skorupska Elzbieta , Dybek Tomasz , Wotzka Daria , Rychlik Michał , Jokiel Marta , Pakosz Paweł , Konieczny Mariusz , Domaszewski Przemysław , Dobrakowski Paweł
Published: February 2022

The Skorupska Protocol (SP) test is a new validated tool used to confirm nociplastic pain related to muscles based on a pathological autonomic nervous system (ANS) activity due to muscle nociceptive noxious stimulation analyzed automatically. Two types of amplified vasomotor response are defined as possible: vasodilatation and vasoconstriction. Until now, amplified vasodilatation among low back leg pain and/or sciatica subjects in response to the SP test was confirmed. This case report presents an unusual vasomotor response to the SP test within the pain zone of a sciatica-like case. Conducted twice, the SP test confirmed amplified vasoconstriction within the daily complaint due to noxiously stimulated muscle-referred pain for the first time. Additionally, a new type of the SP test analysis using MATLAB was presented. The SP test supported by MATLAB seems to be an interesting solution to confirm nociplastic pain related to muscles based on the pathological autonomic reactivity within the lower leg back pain zone. Further studies using the SP test supported by MATLAB are necessary to compare the SP test results with the clinical state and other types of nociplastic pain examination.
Organic Beet Leaves and Stalk Juice Attenuates the Glutathione Peroxidase Increase Induced by High-Fat Meal in Dyslipidemic Patients: A Pilot Double-Blind, Randomized, Controlled Trial
Authors: de Oliveira Amanda Cristine , Gomes Anna Paula Oliveira , Rodrigues Lorena Charife , Cunha Raisa da Silva , Serra Thaís Martins , Schincaglia Raquel Machado , Silva Marina Alves Coelho , Horst Maria Aderuza , Rostagno Maurício Ariel , Magalhães Kelly Grace , Cunha Luiz Carlos , Botelho Patrícia Borges
Published: February 2022

The beet, including the leaves and stalk (BLS), is a vegetable with great antioxidant potential. The aim of this study was to evaluate the differences in the nutritional composition and the concentration of total phenolics between the organic and conventional BLS and to verify whether the ingestion of an organic BLS juice containing different concentrations of polyphenols modulated some biomarkers of oxidative stress after the ingestion of a high-fat meal in individuals with dyslipidemia. A controlled, randomized, double-blind, crossover clinical trial with a washout period of 1 week was carried out. A 12-h fasting blood sample was collected. Afterward, the participants consumed a high-fat meal, followed by the ingestion of a placebo or one of the organic BLS juices containing either 32.0 or 77.5 mg/100 mL of polyphenols. Blood samples were obtained 30, 60, 120 and 180 min after the first blood collection. The composition analysis showed that organic BLS had a better nutritional composition than conventional ones. The high-fat meal induced postprandial hypertriglyceridemia after 120 min (p < 0.001) and increased the concentration of malondialdehyde after 30 min (p < 0.001). In addition, there was a significant increase in GPx in 30 min (p = 0.026). This increase was attenuated in the group that received the highest dose of polyphenols when compared with the placebo after 30 min (p = 0.045). Therefore, the organic BLS juice containing 77.5 mg of polyphenols was efficient at modulating one of the postprandial mechanisms of enzymatic antioxidant protection in individuals with dyslipidemia.
Semantic Segmentation and Building Extraction from Airborne LiDAR Data with Multiple Return Using PointNet++
Authors: Shin Young-Ha , Son Kyung-Wahn , Lee Dong-Cheon
Published: February 2022

Light detection and ranging (LiDAR) data of 3D point clouds acquired from laser sensors is a crucial form of geospatial data for recognition of complex objects since LiDAR data provides geometric information in terms of 3D coordinates with additional attributes such as intensity and multiple returns. In this paper, we focused on utilizing multiple returns in the training data for semantic segmentation, in particular building extraction using PointNet++. PointNet++ is known as one of the efficient and robust deep learning (DL) models for processing 3D point clouds. On most building boundaries, two returns of the laser pulse occur. The experimental results demonstrated that the proposed approach could improve building extraction by adding two returns to the training datasets. Specifically, the recall value of the predicted building boundaries for the test data was improved from 0.7417 to 0.7948 for the best case. However, no significant improvement was achieved for the new data because the new data had relatively lower point density compared to the training and test data.