bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Superior eyelid endoscopic transorbital approach to the tentorial area: A qualitative and quantitative anatomic study
Authors: De Rosa Andrea , Di Somma Alberto , Mosteiro Alejandra , Ferrés Abel , Reyes Luis Alberto , Roldan Pedro , Torné Ramon , Torales Jorge , Solari Domenico , Cavallo Luigi Maria , Enseñat Joaquim , Prats-Galino Alberto
Published: October 2022

Objective

Superior eyelid endoscopic transorbital approach (SETOA) is nowadays gaining progressive application in neurosurgical scenarios. Both anatomic and clinical reports have demonstrated the possibility of taking advantage of the orbital corridor as a minimally invasive route to reach anterior and middle cranial fossae and manage selected surgical lesions developing in these areas. The aim of this paper is to further shed light on other anatomic regions of the skull base as seen from a transorbital perspective, namely, the posterior cranial fossa and tentorial area, describing technical feasibility and steps in reaching this area through an extradural-transtentorial approach and providing quantitative evaluations of the “working area” obtained through this route.

Material and methods

Four cadaveric heads (eight sides) were dissected at the Laboratory of Surgical Neuroanatomy (LSNA) of the University of Barcelona, Spain. A stepwise dissection of the transorbital approach to the tentorial area was described. Qualitative anatomical descriptions and quantitative analyses of working were evaluated by using pre- and postdissections CT and MRI scans, and three-dimensional reconstructions were made using Amira software.

Results

With the endoscopic transorbital approach, posterior cranial fossa dura was reached by an extradural middle cranial fossa approach and drilling of the petrous apex. After clipping the superior petrosal sinus, the tentorium was divided and cut. An endoscope was then introduced in the posterior cranial fossa at the level of the tentorial incisura. Qualitative analysis provided a description of the tentorial and petrosal surfaces of the cerebellum, middle tentorial incisura, cerebellopontine fissures, and, after arachnoid dissection, by a 30° endoscopic visualization, the posterior aspect of the cerebellomesencephalic fissure. Quantitative analysis of the “working area” obtained after bone removal was also provided.

Conclusions

This anatomic qualitative and quantitative study sheds light on the anatomy of the posterior cranial fossa contents, such as the tentorial area and incisura, as seen through a transorbital perspective. The first aim of the article is to enrich the anatomical knowledge as seen through this relatively new corridor and to provide quantitative details and insights into the technical feasibility of reaching these regions in a surgical scenario.
Nomogram for predicting overall survival in patients with invasive micropapillary carcinoma after breast-conserving surgery: A population-based analysis
Authors: Zhao Yuting , Li Shouyu , Yan Lutong , Yang Zejian , Chai Na , Qiu Pei , Zhang Jian , Zhang Huimin , He Jianjun , Zhou Can
Published: October 2022

Background

Due to the loss of prediction of overall survival (OS) for patients with invasive micropapillary carcinoma (IMPC) after breast-conserving surgery (BCS), this study aimed to construct a nomogram for predicting OS in IMPC patients after BCS.

Methods

In total, 481 eligible cases staged 0-III IMPC from 2000 to 2016 were retrieved from the SEER database. A nomogram was built based on the variables selected by LASSO regression to predict the 3-year and 5-year probabilities of OS.

Results

A total of 336 patients were randomly assigned to the training cohort and 145 cases in the validation cohort. The LASSO regression revealed that six variables (age at diagnosis, AJCC stage, marital status, ER status, PR status, and chemotherapy) were predictive variables of OS, and then a nomogram model and an easy-to-use online tool were constructed. The C-indices 0.771 in the training cohort and 0.715 in the validation cohort suggested the robustness of the model. The AUC values for 3-year and 5-year OS in the training cohort were 0.782, 0.790, and 0.674, and 0.682 in the validation cohort, respectively. Based on the cutoff values of 147.23 and 222.44 scores calculated by X-tile analysis, participants in the low-risk group (≤147.23 scores) had a more favorable OS in comparison with those in the medium (>147.23, but <222.44 scores)- and high-risk groups (≥222.44 scores).

Conclusions

By risk stratification, this model is expected to provide a precise and personalized prediction of the cumulative risk and guide treatment decision-making in improving OS strategies for IMPC patients.
Double J stent malposition in the inferior vena cava: Two case reports and a literature review
Authors: Wang Qihua , Shen Chen , Zhang Yue , Wen Lijie , Yang Bo
Published: October 2022

Double J stent (DJS) malposition in the vascular system is a rare and severe complication. We present two cases in our department who went through DJS malposition in the inferior vena cava and our experience in treatment, and we reviewed the previous case reports to further summarize its underlying reasons and prevention and treatment methods.
A modified mTNM staging system based on lymph node ratio for colon neuroendocrine tumors: A recursive partitioning analysis
Authors: Wang Ye , Cai Huajun , Zhang Yiyi , Zhuang Jinfu , Liu Xing , Guan Guoxian
Published: October 2022

Background

In the current tumor–lymph node–metastasis (TNM) staging system for colon neuroendocrine tumors, lymph node status is divided into N1 and N0. An assessment of the lymph node ratio (LNR) and a proposal for a modified mTNM staging system were the objectives of this study.

Methods

Selecting the optimal cut-off value of LNR was done using X-tile. A Cox regression model and the Kaplan–Meier method were performed to calculate patient cancer-specific survival in the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results cohort. Recursive partitioning analysis was used to improve TNM staging.

Results

The study included 674 patients. The current TNM staging system showed inadequate discriminatory power between stage I and stage II patients (p = 0.088). The optimal cut-off value was determined as 0.6 for LNR. Based on multivariate Cox regression analysis, the modified mN classification could be classified into mN 0 (LNR = 0.00), mN 1 (LNR = 0.01–0.60), and mN 2 (LNR > 0.60), and was found to be an independent factor affecting prognosis (p < 0.001). Using the American Joint Committee on Cancer T and modified mN classifications, the modified mTNM system was constructed, and it exhibited better prognostic discriminatory power ability than the traditional TNM system (C-index: 0.587 vs. 0.665).

Conclusions

Our study determined that LNR is a prognostic factor in colon NET patients. In addition, to more accurately assess the prognosis of colon NET patients, we proposed a modified mTNM staging system.
General features, management strategies, and outcomes of symptomatic spontaneous isolated celiac artery dissection
Authors: Zhou Fushuo , Zheng Zhi , Pan Youmin
Published: October 2022

Objectives

Spontaneous isolated celiac artery dissection (SICAD) is a rare condition that has not been fully investigated and reported, and very little is known regarding its prognosis and management. Here, we aimed to provide more evidence on the management strategy and outcome for symptomatic SICAD based on the experience of a single center.

Methods

From January 2018 to December 2021, a total of consecutive 51 patients with symptomatic SICAD were retrospectively included in this study. These patients had been selectively treated with conservative treatment (n = 31) or endovascular treatment (n = 20). Baseline data, imaging findings, treatment strategy, outcomes, and follow-up data have been described and analyzed.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 53.2 ± 9.6 years, 44 (86.3%) were male, and 36 (70.6%) had hypertension. The median length of stay was 10.0 days. The complete remission rate was 92.2% on discharge. The median follow-up time was 21.0 months. A secondary intervention was required for two patients during follow-up in the conservative group, wherein one underwent a stent placement three months after discharge because of progression of symptoms and extension of dissection, and the other required intervention one month after discharge because of symptomatic progression. No secondary intervention was required in the endovascular group. Occasional and mild relapse of symptoms occurred in two patients in both the conservative and endovascular groups, with no secondary intervention. The length of dissection (25.5 ± 11.8 mm vs. 19.1 ± 7.4 mm, P = 0.022) and complete remodeling rate (85.7% vs. 15.4%, P < 0.001) in the endovascular group were greater than that in the conservative group.

Conclusion

Patients with symptomatic SICAD who were selectively treated with conservative treatment or endovascular treatment had satisfactory early and medium-term outcomes. Endovascular treatment showed significant advantages in the complete remodeling of the celiac artery and presented with a lower rate of secondary intervention. Moreover, it was found to be a safe and effective remedy for failed conservative treatment.
Virtual surgical planning and 3D printing: Methodology and applications in veterinary oromaxillofacial surgery
Authors: Klasen Jan R. S. , Thatcher Graham P. , Bleedorn Jason A. , Soukup Jason W.
Published: October 2022

Virtual surgical planning is the process of planning and rehearsing a surgical procedure completely within the virtual environment on computer models. Virtual surgical planning and 3D printing is gaining popularity in veterinary oromaxillofacial surgery and are viable tools for the most basic to the most complex cases. These techniques can provide the surgeon with improved visualization and, thus, understanding of the patients' 3D anatomy. Virtual surgical planning is feasible in a clinical setting and may decrease surgical time and increase surgical accuracy. For example, pre-operative implant contouring on a 3D-printed model can save time during surgery; 3D-printed patient-specific implants and surgical guides help maintain normocclusion after mandibular reconstruction; and the presence of a haptic model in the operating room can improve surgical precision and safety. However, significant time and financial resources may need to be allocated for planning and production of surgical guides and implants. The objectives of this manuscript are to provide a description of the methods involved in virtual surgical planning and 3D printing as they apply to veterinary oromaxillofacial surgery and to highlight these concepts with the strategic use of examples. In addition, the advantages and disadvantages of the methods as well as the required software and equipment will be discussed.
Overview of the SmartX Wing Technology Integrator
Authors: De Breuker Roeland , Mkhoyan Tigran , Nazeer Nakash , Stuber Vincent , Wang Xuerui , Mkhoyan Iren , Groves Roger , van der Zwaag Sybrand , Sodja Jurij
Published: October 2022

This article describes the challenges of integrating smart sensing, actuation, and control concepts into an over-sensed and over-actuated technology integrator. This technology integrator has more control inputs than the expected responses or outputs (over-actuated), and its every state is measured using more than one sensor system (over-sensed). The hardware integration platform is chosen to be a wind tunnel model of a low-speed aircraft wing such that it can be tested in a large university-level wind tunnel. This hardware technology integrator is designed for multiple objectives. The nature of these objectives is aerodynamic, structural, and aeroelastic, or, more specifically; drag reduction, static and dynamics loads control, aeroelastic stability control, and lift control. Enabling technologies, such as morphing, piezoelectric actuation and sensing, and fibre-optic sensing are selected to fulfil the mentioned objectives. The technology integration challenges are morphing, actuation integration, sensor integration, software and data integration, and control system integration. The built demonstrator shows the intended level of technology integration.
In-Flight Radome Slope Estimation for Homing Guidance Using Bearing-Only Measurement via Gaussian Process Regression
Authors: Lu Kelin , Jin Bingyu , Zhang Ning
Published: October 2022

The radome refraction problem gives rise to guidance performance deterioration for homing missiles. Aiming to eliminate the effect of radome refraction on the radar seeker, a novel method is proposed for correcting the radome-induced measurement error by using the estimated guidance information. A dynamic model for the estimation system is formulated and the guidance information is estimated online via a multiple-model filtering framework. A Gaussian process regression scheme is introduced to reconstruct the mapping model with respect to the radome error and look angle. Furthermore, an analytical expression for radome slope estimation is derived by calculating the derivative of the surrogate function, represented with Gaussian process models. The contaminated measurement is corrected based on the estimated guidance information and radome slope. Extensive simulation results illustrate that the proposed method is able to estimate the radome slope accurately and improve the guidance accuracy effectively.
Fine Mapping and Candidate-Gene Analysis of an open glume multi-pistil 3 (mp3) in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Liang Yongshu , Gong Junyi , Yan Yuxin , Peng Tingshen , Xiao Jinyu , Wang Shuang , Nan Wenbin , Qin Xiaojian , Zhang Hanma
Published: October 2022

The rice mutant mp3 was derived from an indica–japonica cross between Rejing35 and XieqingzaoB, producing an inconstant number of pistils ranging from one to four pistils in a floret at heading stage, which also developed an open-glume with one or two seeds and twin seedlings at mature and seedling stage. Several altered characteristics, including filling grain panicle–1 (62.90), grain-setting rate (60.48%) and grain yield plant–1 (13.42 g), decreased but an increase in 1000-grain weight (36.87 g) was observed. Genetic analysis revealed that the mp3 mutant phenotype was controlled by a single recessive gene. Using a chromosome walking strategy in the F2 population of 02428/mp3, the mp3 gene was fine mapped between L3-135 and RM7576, with a physical distance of 30.617 kb on rice chromosome 3. Four candidate genes were found in this region referred to the rice genome annotations. LOC_Os03g11614/OsMADS1 corresponded with the mutant mp3 phenotype. Sequencing showed no sequence alterations in the coding and promoter sequence of the LOC_Os03g11614/OsMADS1 of mp3. The mp3 gene may be an allelic gene with three previously reported genes but controlled different mutant floral organ phenotypes in rice. Therefore, this mp3 gene provided a novel perspective on the biological function of OsMADS1 in the development of rice floral organ.
Micro-Investment by Tanzanian Smallholders’ in Drip Irrigation Kits for Vegetable Production to Improve Livelihoods: Lessons Learned and a Way Forward
Authors: Bhatti Muhammad Azher , Godfrey Sosheel Solomon , Divon Shai André , Aamodt Julie Therese , Øystese Siv , Wynn Peter C. , Eik Lars Olav , Fjeld-Solberg Øivind
Published: October 2022

Food security in sub-Saharan Africa is one of the major issues confronting the continent. Innovative use of fresh water, the world’s scarcest food production resource, is vital for family-run small-holder agricultural systems, which supply up to 80% of the world’s food. Agriculture employs 70% of Tanzania’s rural population and supplies 95% of the country’s food. The goal was to measure the impact of smart drip irrigation kits on smallholder farmers’ resilience and rural poverty in Tanzania. A household survey was conducted using an exploratory sequential design in four districts (Babati, Hai, Kasulu, and Kilosa) in Tanzania. A total of 383 respondents (Micro-investing (MI) farmers, n = 195; control, n = 187) were randomly selected from a pool of 3444 farmers. Partial budgeting and enterprise economic analysis were used for the calculation of gross margins, and multivariate analysis was used for poverty analysis. Gross margin analysis showed that communities using drip-irrigated vegetable farming are more profitable. Partial budgeting analysis showed that micro-irrigation increased the revenue generation for most vegetable varieties. However, multivariate analysis was unable to confirm that household poverty was markedly reduced through the adoption of this technology. Half of the MI farmers could afford an education for their children due to the extra income generated from MI. This investment strategy has the potential to improve smallholder livelihoods and resilience to climate change.
Identification Method of Rice Seedlings Rows Based on Gaussian Heatmap
Authors: He Rongru , Luo Xiwen , Zhang Zhigang , Zhang Wenyu , Jiang Chunyu , Yuan Bingxuan
Published: October 2022

The identification method of rice seedling rows based on machine vision is affected by environmental factors that decrease the accuracy and the robustness of the rice seedling row identification algorithm (e.g., ambient light transformation, similarity of weed and rice features, and lack of seedlings in rice rows). To solve the problem of the above environmental factors, a Gaussian Heatmap-based method is proposed for rice seedling row identification in this study. The proposed method is a CNN model that comprises the High-Resolution Convolution Module of the feature extraction model and the Gaussian Heatmap of the regression module of key points. The CNN model is guided using Gaussian Heatmap generated by the continuity of rice row growth and the distribution characteristics of rice in rice rows to learn the distribution characteristics of rice seedling rows in the training process, and the positions of the coordinates of the respective key point are accurately returned through the regression module. For the three rice scenarios (including normal scene, missing seedling scene and weed scene), the PCK and average pixel offset of the model were 94.33%, 91.48%, 94.36% and 3.09, 3.13 and 3.05 pixels, respectively, for the proposed method, and the forward inference speed of the model reached 22 FPS, which can meet the real-time requirements and accuracy of agricultural machinery in field management.
Selected Soil Physicochemical Properties under Different Tillage Practices and N Fertilizer Application in Maize Mono-Cropping
Authors: Vilakazi Bonginkosi S. , Zengeni Rebecca , Mafongoya Paramu
Published: October 2022

No-till (NT) has been said to conserve soil moisture, maintain or increase organic matter (OM), and improve crop production compared to conventional tillage (CT). However, very few studies have explored the effect of these under dry-land agriculture with occasional tillage where ploughing is performed only after several years of NT, especially in KwaZulu–Natal. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of tillage and fertilizer application on selected physicochemical soil properties under rain-fed maize production. Soil samples from NT, conventional tillage in the 5th season (CT-Y5), and annual conventional tillage (CT-A) with 0, 60, 120, 240 kg N ha−1 were taken at 0–10, 10–20, and 20–30 cm and analysed for pH, EC, exchangeable acidity, exchangeable bases, C:N, gravimetric water content, bulk density, and soil texture. Results showed that NT at 0 and 60 kg N ha−1 in 0–10 cm had higher bases, gravimetric water content, pH, and EC compared CT-Y5 and CT-A (p < 0.05). At 10–20 cm depth, CT-Y5 had higher gravimetric water content (0.17 gg−1), followed by CT-A, (0.13 g g−1), while NT had the least (0.11 g g−1) (p < 0.05) in the control treatment. Again at 20–30 cm depth, NT had higher (p < 0.05) bases than CT-Y5 and CT-A tillage practices at 120 and 240 kg N ha−1 application rate. Regression analysis of fertilizer application rate with both bases and gravimetric water content showed a strong relationship under NT. Better soil properties under both NT and CT-Y5 was attributed to residue cover and minimum disturbance of the soil, which encouraged infiltration, thus reducing runoff and evaporation from the soil surface. Accumulation of residue under conservation tillage enhances OM, which subsequently improves soil quality, whereas ploughing aerates the soil causing oxidation of OM, thus releasing H+ ions. Again, fertilizer application induces mineralization of OM, thus, higher fertilizer application rates result in low levels of carbon. NT is well-recommended in conserving soil quality while sustaining crop productivity.
Effects of Shrub Encroachment in the Inner Mongolia Ecotones between Forest and Grassland on the Species Diversity and Interspecific Associations
Authors: Song Qing , Wang Tiemei
Published: October 2022

Shrub encroachment, which is the increase in shrubs or woody plants in grassland, is one of the important ecological problems facing grassland worldwide. The study was conducted in the ecotones between the forest and grassland of Inner Mongolia. Using a simple random sampling method, 40 shrubland sample plots, evenly distributed in the typical forest-grass transition area, were selected for community investigation. According to the steppe shrub encroachment index, the grassland was divided into different levels. The species diversity and interspecific association of different levels of sample plots were statistically analyzed and compared. It was found that the Shannon-Wiener index (H) and Simpson index (P) were negatively associated with the shrub encroachment index (p < 0.01) and gradually decreased with increasing levels of shrub encroachment. When the grassland transitioned to severe shrub formation, the species diversity of the community significantly decreased, and H and P were significantly lower than those of the mild and moderate shrub-steppe, and the lowest values were 1.37 and 0.48, respectively. With the increase in the shrub encroachment index, biomass showed a trend of first increasing and then decreasing. The aboveground biomass of shrub interspace and total aboveground biomass in the severe shrub encroachment steppe were significantly lower than those in the mildly and moderately shrub-steppe, with the lowest values of 101.86 g/m2 and 189.69 g/m2, respectively. Shrub encroachment led to a change in the overall association of shrub communities in the ecotones between the forest and grassland of Inner Mongolia from positive to negative. The vast majority of species pairs in the shrub community showed no significant association, and the interspecies association was relatively weak. The results showed that shrub encroachment would affect community species diversity; mild and moderate shrub encroachment had no significant impact on community species diversity, but severe shrub encroachment significantly reduced the community species diversity. There was no significant effect of shrub encroachment on aboveground biomass, which increased first and then decreased, and the herbaceous plant population played a leading role in grassland productivity. The interspecific association of grassland is loose and weak. The community was in the early stage of unstable succession, and it was possible to continue shrub encroachment or reverse succession into a typical grassland in response to the interference of human or environmental factors.
Proper Deficit Nitrogen Application and Irrigation of Tomato Can Obtain a Higher Fruit Quality and Improve Cultivation Profit
Authors: Fan Mengying , Qin Yonghui , Jiang Xuelian , Cui Ningbo , Wang Yaosheng , Zhang Yixuan , Zhao Lu , Jiang Shouzheng
Published: October 2022

Faced with severe global shortage of water and soil resources, studies on the integrated effect of water and nitrogen on tomato cultivation are urgently needed for sustainable agriculture. Two successive greenhouse experiments with three irrigation regimes (1, 2/3, 1/3 full irrigation) and four nitrogen levels (1, 2/3, 1/3, 0 nitrogen) were conducted; plant growth, fruit yield and quality were surveyed; and comprehensive quality and net profit were evaluated. The results show that water and nitrogen deficit decreased plant growth, evapotranspiration and yield while increasing production efficiency and fruit comprehensive quality. An antagonism effect from water and nitrogen application was found in tomato yield, organic acid, solids acid ratio, vitamin C and lycopene, whereas synergistic impact was observed in total soluble solids content. Water deficit had more significant effect on tomato yield and fruit quality parameters compared with that of nitrogen deficiency. Synthesizing the perspectives of yield, quality, resource productivity, market price index and profits, 1/3 full irrigation and 2/3 full nitrogen was the best strategy and could be recommended to farmers as an effective guidance for tomato production.
The Interactive Impact of Straw Mulch and Biochar Application Positively Enhanced the Growth Indexes of Maize (Zea mays L.) Crop
Authors: Khan Ismail , Iqbal Babar , Khan Asif Ali , Inamullah  , Rehman Abdul , Fayyaz Amna , Shakoor Awais , Farooq Taimoor Hassan , Wang Li-xue
Published: October 2022

A two-year experiment was carried out at Shenyang Agricultural University’s research field area in China to evaluate the impact of the combined application of straw mulch (0 and 8 t ha−1) and biochar (0, 4, 12, and 36 t ha−1) on the morphological traits and grain development of rainfed maize during 2018 and 2019. The results showed that straw mulch and different biochar application rates significantly impacted the maize growth index. Compared to non-biochar-treated soils, the introduction of straw mulch improved plant height, stem diameter, leaf area index (LAI), leaves, stem, root, and crop growth rate (CGR), and dry weight of rainfed maize crop. The highest plant height, stem diameter, LAI, leaves, stem, root growth rate, CGR, and dry weight of rainfed maize crop were reported when soil was treated with a higher rate of biochar (36 t ha−1). Biochar increased grain filling rate while decreasing grain filling duration in rainfed maize crops. Our results indicate that straw mulch and biochar-based soil management strategies can improve the rainfed maize growth with the environmental benefits of global warming mitigation. However, due to the wide range of biochar properties, the interactions between straw mulch and biochar should be given special consideration in the maize cropping system.
Mapping of Phenological Traits in Northeast China Maize (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Wang Xiaowei , Li Xiaoyu , Gu Jiatong , Shi Wenqi , Zhao Haigen , Sun Chen , You Songcai
Published: October 2022

Detailed traits are required for early warning and prediction of crop-related meteorological hazards. Currently, data sets describing maize phenological traits in Northeast China are few and incomplete, resulting in poor spatial interpolation results that do not accurately reflect the spatial distributions and temporal development patterns of maize phenology in the region. In this study, a maize-phenology data set is produced containing nine phenological stages and phenological stage maps based on three sets of in situ maize-phenology data from three different sources. First, the relationship between each phenological stage and date of the previous stage, longitude, latitude, and altitude, is uncovered using a multiple stepwise regression method. Then, the spatial variation of each phenological stage using ArcGIS is explored. Finally, a maize phenological stage data set and a phenological stage atlas are established for the average state of 2010–2020 in Northeast China. The data set was validated using phenological data from agricultural weather stations run by the China Meteorological Administration. The validated data set can be used for various purposes, including real-time warning and prediction of maize-related meteorological hazards.
Comparative Analysis of Saliva and Plasma Proteins Patterns in Pregnant Cows—Preliminary Studies
Authors: Mojsym Wioleta , Wawrzykowski Jacek , Jamioł Monika , Chrobak Łukasz , Kankofer Marta
Published: October 2022

Pregnancy is a physiological state that can be described, from a biochemical point of view, using protein patterns. The present study focused on the comparison of protein patterns between the saliva and plasma of pregnant cows to search for possible markers which are present both in plasma and saliva. Saliva and plasma were collected from healthy, pregnant (3–4 months) and non-pregnant (C; n = 4) cows aged between 4 and 8 years (P; n = 8) from the same farm. Biological material was analyzed using 2D electrophoresis and MS identification. Among identified spots, there were those which could be related to pregnancy (e.g., apolipoproteins I and II in all examined matrices or transforming growth factor-beta-induced protein ig-h3 in albumin-free plasma) as well as those which are responsible for regulating of cellular processes (e.g., pyruvate kinase and aspartate aminotransferase in all examined matrices, or lactate dehydrogenase, phosphoglycerate kinase, and NADH dehydrogenase in plasma). Further identification of common spots and those only specific to saliva as well as the comparison between other periods of pregnancy are necessary; it is already clear that saliva can be considered a valuable diagnostic matrix containing potential markers of physiological and pathological status.
Periovulatory Hormonal Profiles after Estrus Induction and Conception Rate by Fixed-Time AI in Payoya Goats during the Anestrous Season
Authors: Arrebola Francisco A. , Torres-Martell Rafael , González-Casquet Olga , Meza-Herrera Cesar A. , Pérez-Marín Carlos C.
Published: October 2022

Sexual activity in domestic goats is positively influenced by reducing the photoperiod. Various protocols have therefore been developed in goats for the induction and synchronization of estrus during those months in which their sexual activity is reduced. The present observational study evaluates the periovulatory hormonal profile in Payoya goats (n = 24), during a non-favorable photoperiod (i.e., spring), being treated for estrus induction. The treatment comprised the vaginal insertion of sponges impregnated with progestogen (fluorogestone acetate, FGA), together with cloprostenol and equine chorionic gonadotrophin (eCG), 48 h before the end of the treatment. When the treatment ended, the plasma concentrations of the LH, FSH, progesterone and estradiol were determined. The goats were inseminated 46 h after the sponge withdrawal, and a pregnancy diagnosis was carried out 40–45 days after the insemination. Various parameters were monitored, such as the peaks of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and estradiol, and their respective intervals, in reference to the time of the sponge withdrawal. The conception rate was 62.5%, and the kidding rate was 50%. The results record the hormonal release pattern after the estrus synchronization treatment based on the FGA, and the differences between the pregnant and non-pregnant goats. The findings suggest that the LH peak produced after the estrus synchronization treatment, both in terms of the amplitude and the time of increment, is involved in the reproductive failure detected.
Dietary Theabrownin Supplementation Improves Production Performance and Egg Quality by Promoting Intestinal Health and Antioxidant Capacity in Laying Hens
Authors: Zhang Tao , Bai Shiping , Ding Xuemei , Zeng Qiufeng , Zhang Keying , Lv Li , Li Jian , Peng Huanwei , Xuan Yue , Wang Jianping
Published: October 2022

Theabrownin, an activated and ample pigment in Pu-erh tea, is known to exert antiobesity and antihyperlipidemic effects in humans, mice, and rats. In this study, we aimed to explore the effects of theabrownin (TB) dietary supplementation on production performance, egg quality, intestinal health, and antioxidant capacities in laying hens. In total, 160 Lohmann laying hens (25 weeks old) were randomly split into four groups (each group 40 hens), namely the CONT (control, basal diet + 0 mg/kg TB), TB1 (basal diet + 100 mg/kg TB), TB2 (basal diet + 200 mg/kg TB), and TB4 (basal diet + 400 mg/kg TB) groups, respectively. These were supplemented with TB for 12 weeks. The results showed that the TB1 group exhibited a significantly higher laying rate during 9 to 12 weeks and higher egg weight and feed conversion efficiency (lower FCR) during 5 to 8 weeks and in the overall period (1 to 12 weeks) than the CONT group (p < 0.05). Compared with the CONT group, the eggs from the TB4 group had higher albumen height and Haugh unit than those from the other treatment groups after the 8th and 12th week; notably, the same was also observed in the TB1 and TB2 groups but only after the 12th week (p < 0.05). The albumen quality (albumen height and Haugh unit) after 3 weeks of storage was significantly higher in the TB1, TB2 and TB4 groups than in the CONT group (p < 0.05). Furthermore, TB supplementation lowered the serum levels of total cholesterol and total triglyceride (p < 0.05). Expression analysis revealed that TB2 and TB4 groups had reduced expression of tumor necrosis factor-α (p < 0.05), while TB1, TB2, and TB4 had significantly decreased expression of interleukin-1β and IL-6 (p < 0.05). Conversely, zonula occludens-1, claudin-1, and mucin-2 were upregulated in the TB2 and TB4 groups (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, dietary TB supplementation ameliorated the antioxidant status of the ovary and the magnum, showing a significant reduction in malondialdehyde and 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine levels in the magnum, the upregulation of glutathione in the ovary, and superoxide dismutase and catalase in the magnum (p < 0.05). Overall, dietary supplementation with TB (>100 mg/kg) improved production performance and egg storage quality by improving the intestinal health and antioxidant capacities of the reproductive system in laying hens.
Application of Electroencephalography in Preslaughter Management: A Review
Authors: Kumar Pavan , Abubakar Ahmed A. , Sazili Awis Qurni , Kaka Ubedullah , Goh Yong-Meng
Published: October 2022

Electroencephalography (EEG) can be reliable for assessing the brain’s electrical activity of preslaughter stress and pain. The duration between the ventral neck cut and induction of a state of unconsciousness/insensibility is crucial in the slaughtering of animals, reducing pain, fear, and distress. Various EEG variables, such as median frequency (F50), the total power of EEG spectrum (Ptot), waves patterns (amplitude and frequencies), epileptiform EEG, index of consciousness, and isoelectric EEG, are used to identify a valid indicator of the state of unconsciousness. Association among various behavioral, physiological, and hematological parameters with EEG variables could provide an overall assessment and deep insights into the animal stress levels or welfare status during various managemental and preslaughter operations, such as transport, stunning, and slaughtering operations. The application of EEG could help in further refining the stunning technologies and slaughter protocols in livestock, poultry, and fish. The present review analyzed the application of EEG as a neurophysiological tool for assessing animal welfare during the critical state of preslaughter handling and slaughter, thus ensuring proper compliance with animal welfare principles.
Medical Management versus PACK-CXL in Dogs with Infectious Keratitis: A Randomized Controlled Trial Protocol
Authors: Kowalska Malwina E. , Hafezi Farhad , Pot Simon A. , Hartnack Sonja
Published: October 2022

Infectious keratitis is a common and painful disease, usually caused by bacteria in dogs. Brachycephalic breeds are at increased risk. Despite medical therapy, enzymatic corneal melting can lead to ulcer perforation and globe loss. Treatment alternatives are needed due to an increase in antibiotic resistance and growing popularity of brachycephalic dogs. Photoactivated Chromophore for Keratitis-Corneal Cross-linking (PACK-CXL) reduces enzymatic collagenolysis and damages multiple targets within microorganisms, resulting in corneal tissue stabilization and elimination of bacteria, irrespective of their antibiotic resistance status. A randomized controlled trial providing evidence of PACK-CXL effectiveness in dogs is lacking. We aim to determine whether PACK-CXL is a viable alternative to conventional medical therapy for canine infectious keratitis. Two hundred-and-seventy client-owned dogs with presumed infectious keratitis will be allocated to two equally sized treatment groups (PACK-CXL or medical therapy) in a masked, randomized, controlled, multicenter trial in eleven clinics. The primary outcome measure is treatment success defined as complete epithelial closure within 28 days. The sample size is based on a group sequential design with two interim analyses, which will be overseen by a Data Safety and Monitoring Board. Ethical approvals have been obtained. The study protocol is preregistered at preclinicaltrials.eu. Publishing trial protocols improves study reproducibility and reduces publication bias.
Emergence of a Novel Lineage and Wide Spread of a blaCTX-M-15/IncHI2/ST1 Plasmid among Nosocomial Enterobacter in Guadeloupe
Authors: Pot Matthieu , Reynaud Yann , Couvin David , Dereeper Alexis , Ferdinand Séverine , Bastian Sylvaine , Foucan Tania , Pommier Jean-David , Valette Marc , Talarmin Antoine , Guyomard-Rabenirina Stéphanie , Breurec Sébastien
Published: October 2022

Between April 2018 and August 2019, a total of 135 strains of Enterobacter cloacae complex (ECC) were randomly collected at the University Hospital Center of Guadeloupe to investigate the structure and diversity of the local bacterial population. These nosocomial isolates were initially identified genetically by the hsp60 typing method, which revealed the clinical relevance of E. xiangfangensis (n = 69). Overall, 57/94 of the third cephalosporin-resistant strains were characterized as extended-spectrum-β-lactamase (ESBL) producers, and their whole-genome was sequenced using Illumina technology to determine the clonal relatedness and diffusion of resistance genes. We found limited genetic diversity among sequence types (STs). ST114 (n = 13), ST1503 (n = 9), ST53 (n = 5) and ST113 (n = 4), which belong to three different Enterobacter species, were the most prevalent among the 57 ESBL producers. The blaCTXM-15 gene was the most prevalent ESBL determinant (56/57) and was in most cases associated with IncHI2/ST1 plasmid replicon carriage (36/57). To fully characterize this predominant blaCTXM-15/IncHI2/ST1 plasmid, four isolates from different lineages were also sequenced using Oxford Nanopore sequencing technology to generate long-reads. Hybrid sequence analyses confirmed the circulation of a well-conserved plasmid among ECC members. In addition, the novel ST1503 and its associated species (ECC taxon 4) were analyzed, in view of its high prevalence in nosocomial infections. These genetic observations confirmed the overall incidence of nosocomial ESBL Enterobacteriaceae infections acquired in this hospital during the study period, which was clearly higher in Guadeloupe (1.59/1000 hospitalization days) than in mainland France (0.52/1,000 hospitalization days). This project revealed issues and future challenges for the management and surveillance of nosocomial and multidrug-resistant Enterobacter in the Caribbean.
Genome Mining Discovery of a New Benzazepine Alkaloid Pseudofisnin A from the Marine Fungus Neosartorya pseudofischeri F27-1
Authors: Xue Xiao-Xin , Chen Lin , Tang Man-Cheng
Published: October 2022

l-Kynurenine (Kyn) is an intermediate in the kynurenine pathway and is also found to be a building block or biosynthetic precursor to bioactive natural products. Recent studies revealed that l-Kyn can be incorporated via nonribosomal peptide synthetase (NRPS) biosynthetic routes to generate 1-benzazepine-containing compounds, while 1-benzazepine is a pharmaceutically important scaffold that is rarely found in natural products. Using a core biosynthetic enzyme-guided genome-mining approach, we discovered a biosynthetic gene cluster from Neosartorya pseudofischeri and identified that it encodes for the biosynthesis of pseudofisnins, novel 1-benzazepine-containing compounds. The biosynthetic pathway of pseudofisnins was elucidated through in vivo and in vitro experiments. The methyltransferase PseC from the pathway was biochemically characterized to be an iterative methyltransferase that catalyzes off-NRPS line di-methylation on an amine group.
Lipid Microenvironment Modulates the Pore-Forming Ability of Polymyxin B
Authors: Zakharova Anastasiia A. , Efimova Svetlana S. , Ostroumova Olga S.
Published: October 2022

The ability of polymyxin B, an antibiotic used to treat infections caused by multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria as a last-line therapeutic option, to form ion pores in model membranes composed of various phospholipids and lipopolysaccharides was studied. Our data demonstrate that polymyxin B predominantly interacts with negatively charged lipids. Susceptibility decreases as follows: Kdo2-Lipid A >> DOPG ≈ DOPS >> DPhPG ≈ TOCL ≈ Lipid A. The dimer and hexamer of polymyxin B are involved in the pore formation in DOPG(DOPS)- and Kdo2-Lipid A-enriched bilayers, respectively. The pore-forming ability of polymyxin B significantly depends on the shape of membrane lipids, which indicates that the antibiotic produces toroidal lipopeptide-lipid pores. Small amphiphilic molecules diminishing the membrane dipole potential and inducing positive curvature stress were shown to be agonists of pore formation by polymyxin B and might be used to develop innovative lipopeptide-based formulations.
The Influence of Badminton on the Anterior Stability of the Knee in Badminton Players between 10 and 12 Years of Age
Authors: Kubasik Wojciech , Rodak Piotr , Przednowek Krzysztof , Kluczniok Kamila , Ficek Krzysztof
Published: October 2022

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear is a common injury in athletes and physically active people, for that reason it is a very interesting topic for orthopedics and physiotherapists. The ACL tear can lead to knee joint instability. There are two main mechanisms of the ACL tear that are described in the literature during which this injury occurs: landing after a jump and dynamic lunges. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of badminton training on sagittal knee stability in young badminton players aged from 10 to 12 years old. Additionally, subjects were tested using the functional movement screen (FMS). One hundred sixteen children were included in this study. The study group consisted of 68 children, practicing badminton on a regular basis. The control group included 48 children who did not practice any sport. The results indicated that regular practice of badminton did not influence sagittal knee stability in youth players. It was also demonstrated that badminton training influences the final score in the FMS in badminton players. Additionally, based on the results of this study, there was a significant relationship between the FMS score and frontal knee stability. Considering these results, we can conclude that adequate motor preparation and badminton training have a beneficial effect on the stability of the knee joints in young badminton players.
Development, Research, Optimization and Experiment of Exoskeleton Robot for Hand Rehabilitation Training
Authors: Guo Kai , Lu Jingxin , Liu Chang , Yang Hongbo
Published: October 2022

As one of the most influential symptoms of daily life after stroke, hand dysfunction has seriously affected the quality of life of patients and families. At present, the commonly used rehabilitation method is to carry out continuous passive training on the patient’s fingers with the help of physical therapists, so as to promote the rehabilitation of the hands. However, this kind of therapist-assisted rehabilitation greatly increases the cost of rehabilitation treatment and is not conducive to the promotion of household use. Many exoskeleton hand rehabilitation robots still lack in overall weight and control, resulting in the application potential of exoskeleton hand rehabilitation robots not being fully developed, and the commercial and clinical success cases are limited. The research of this paper focuses on the structural design and electronic control design of the exoskeleton hand rehabilitation robot. Through the design of an exoskeleton hand rehabilitation robot suitable for human hands, the kinematics parameters are obtained by kinematics simulation, and the lightweight design of the hand rehabilitation robot is completed by using topology optimization. At the same time, this paper shows the development technology of the rehabilitation robot control system. We hope that through the subsequent product development, the exoskeleton hand rehabilitation robot studied in this paper can be applied in the future.
Symmetry Criterion and Far-Field Control of Photonic-Crystal Surface-Emitting Lasers
Authors: Wang Ziye , Wang Pinyao , Lu Huanyu , Meng Bo , Wang Yanjing , Tong Cunzhu , Wang Lijun
Published: October 2022

Photonic-crystal surface-emitting lasers (PCSELs) have led to amazing results in overcoming the divergence limitation of semiconductor lasers. However, so far, the physical mechanism behind this promising control of far-field characteristics is still unclear. Here, we perform a theoretical study of the mechanism of the influence of photonic crystal (PhC) geometry on the far field of PCSELs. The perspective from group theory is adopted in our analysis. We explore the function of symmetry in the formation of the far-field pattern (FFP) and clarify the roles played by various PhC parameters in this process. Through our analysis, a symmetry criterion to design PCSELs with single-lobed narrow beams is shown, where an asymmetric in-plane PhC structure, a large vertical confinement factor, and a sufficient number of periods are required. Our results reveal the physical origin of the narrow beam of PCSELs, which can even reach 0.1° with a PhC cavity size of over 1000 μm at a lasing wavelength of 940 nm.
Soil Characterization and Soiling Impact to Facilitate Photovoltaic Installation
Authors: Olivares Douglas , Taquichiri Abel , Ferrada Pablo , Marzo Aitor , Henríquez Mauro , Espinoza Darío , Fuentealba Edward , Llanos Jaime
Published: October 2022

There is currently an energy crisis that has led to photovoltaic operators maximizing their resources, making soiling a problem to consider in order to ensure project profitability. Energy production costs are strongly affected by the use of scarcely efficient cleaning techniques that are not suitable for a particular type of contaminant, climate, and installation. This paper introduces a technology that is suitable for studying soiling, thus decreasing the number of variables studied and reliable results were obtained. Our attention is focused on deposited material physicochemistry, local geology, and installation effects. Analysis via scanning electron microscopy and pits revealed a similarity between local geological processes and module soiling, with gypsum being responsible for soil and module cementation. Analysis with Atomic Force Microscopy confirms the cementation effect and crust formation on the lower part of the photovoltaic glass, the latter concentrating in the greatest amount of cemented material. Using a solar simulator, the characteristic curves produced by the cemented material were studied, and it was determined that the lower part of the glass produced the greatest losses (27%). Thus, a non-uniformity deposition was generated, creating resistance between the cells. From the data obtained, it was possible to make recommendations regarding making decisions about plant cleaning, instead of only considering the physicochemical analysis of the deposited material.