bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Media Use Influences the Fertility Intentions Among Chinese Women of Reproductive Age: A Perspective of Social Trust
Authors: Ning Chuanlin , Wu Jing , Ye Yijie , Yang Nan , Pei Huacheng , Gao Hao
Published: May 2022

Background

The low fertility level has become a serious social problem in China. Previous research has argued the significant influence of media use and social trust on fertility intentions, but the interaction between the two variables and how they influence fertility intentions remain further investigation. This study explored the influence mechanism of media use on Chinese women's fertility intentions from the perspective of social trust.

Methods

This study collected data from the 2017 China General Social Survey, investigated the relationships between variables through bivariate correlation coefficients, and explored the differences in fertility intentions among women of reproductive age (20–49). Also, this paper examined the influence of media use and social trust by regression analysis and tested the mediating role of social trust between media use and fertility intentions with Bootstrap sampling.

Results

Women with different media use preferences, education levels, and family incomes have significant differences (p< 0.01) in fertility intentions. New media use negatively influences women's fertility intentions, while traditional media use has no significant influence on women's fertility intentions. Social trust significantly influenced women's fertility intentions and partially mediated the impact of new media use on fertility intentions.

Conclusion

Online communication influences fertility intentions among Chinese women of reproductive age. It tends to influence their social trust by amplifying negative social news, affecting their fertility intentions further. This paper suggests the importance of strengthening social trust and online agenda-setting to improve women's fertility intentions that strategic information communication can change their perceptions of social trust.
Biosafety in Dental Health Care During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Miguita Lucyene , Martins-Chaves Roberta Rayra , Geddes Victor Emmanuel Viana , Mendes Suellen da Rocha , Costa Sara Ferreira dos Santos , Fonseca Paula Luize Camargos , Menezes Diego , Souza Rafael Marques de , Queiroz Daniel Costa , Alves Hugo José , Freitas Raphaela Alvarenga Braga de , Cruz Aline Fernanda , Moreira Rennan Garcias , Moreira Filipe Romero Rebello , Bemquerer Larissa Marques , Aguilar Diego Rodrigues de , Souza e Silva Maria Elisa de , Sampaio Aline Araújo , Jardilino Francisca Daniele Moreira , Souza Leandro Napier de , Silva Tarcilia Aparecida da , Gomes Carolina Cavaliéri , de Abreu Mauro Henrique Nogueira Guimarães , Aguiar Renato Santana de , Souza Renan Pedra de , Gomez Ricardo Santiago
Published: May 2022

Background

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic had quite an impact on dental health care. Concerns about the risk of SARS-CoV-2 transmission through contaminant fluids and droplet formation during several dental procedures highly impacted dental health care, drastically reducing the number of dental practices worldwide. To monitor SARS-CoV-2 contamination in dental clinics, a longitudinal study was carried out during the return of dental practice at university.

Methods

Dental health care professionals [(DHCPs); teachers, undergraduate dental students, and dental assistants] and patients were screened for SARS-CoV-2 RNA in a dental school clinic environment from 11th January to 12th March 2021 (9 weeks). Serological testing was performed on DHCPs in two-time points. Additionally, samples with low Ct values were sequenced to identify the circulating SARS-CoV-2 variant and possible transmission clusters.

Results

We found a low number of dental staff (5.8%), patients (0.9%), and environment sites (0.8%) positive for SARS-CoV-2. Most positive cases had asymptomatic to mild symptoms, and two asymptomatic DHCPs presented prolonged infection. In the first week after previous exposure to COVID-19, 16.2% of DHCPs had IgM or IgG antibodies against SARS-CoV-2, and 1/3 of them had undetected antibodies in the last weeks. The variant zeta (P.2) could be detected. No cross-infection was observed between participants.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that dental practice can be safely executed when adequate control measures and biosafety protocols are applied. DHCP and patient testing, patient telemonitoring, proper use of personal protection equipment, and sanitization of surfaces are essential to avoid SARS-CoV-2 cross-infection in dental practice.
Jovian Planets and Lunar Nodal Cycles in the Earth’s Climate Variability
Authors: Yndestad Harald
Published: May 2022

This study utilizes time-series data devised to measure solar irradiation, sea surface temperatures, and temperatures in the lower atmosphere to gain a better understanding of how gravitational effects from the moon and Jovian planets (Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune) influence solar activity and climatic conditions on Earth. Then, standard statistical methods are used to determine the degree of correlation among these time series and construct a Jovian gravitational model. The study reveals a direct relationship between JSUN perihelion coincidences and TSI amplitude variations in cycles up to 4,450 years. The forced solar accumulation of heat in oceans introduces a new phase relation between solar forced cycles and new climate variation. Earth’s axis nutation cycles have coincidences with lunar nodal tide cycles and lunar forced sea surface temperature cycle periods up to 446 years. Earth’s temperature variation shows coincidence with constructive and destructive interference between lunar-forced and accumulated solar-forced temperature variations in oceans. Upcoming events have a computed modern temperature maximum in 2025 and a deep minimum in 2070. Interference between solar-forced temperature cycles of 333,2142, and 4,450 years and a lunar-forced temperature cycle of 445 years indicates that “The Little Ice Age” covers a total period of 820 years from 1330 to 2150 A.D. and an upcoming temporary cold climate period from 2070 to 2150.
Deciphering Solar Magnetic Activity: The Solar Cycle Clock
Authors: Leamon Robert J. , McIntosh Scott W. , Title Alan M.
Published: May 2022

The Sun’s variability is controlled by the progression and interaction of the magnetized systems that form the 22-year magnetic activity cycle (the “Hale Cycle”) as they march from their origin at ∼55° latitude to the equator, over ∼19 years. We will discuss the end point of that progression, dubbed “terminator” events, and our means of diagnosing them. In this paper we expand on the Extended Solar Cycle framework to construct a new solar activity “clock” which maps all solar magnetic activity onto a single normalized epoch based on the terminations of Hale Magnetic Cycles. Defining phase 0*2π on this clock as the Terminators, then solar polar field reversals occur at ∼ 0.2*2π, and the geomagnetically quiet intervals centered around solar minimum start at ∼ 0.6*2π and end at the terminator, thus lasting 40% of the cycle length. At this onset of quiescence, dubbed a “pre-terminator,” the Sun shows a radical reduction in active region complexity and, like the terminator events, is associated with the time when the solar radio flux crosses F10.7 = 90 sfu. We use the terminator-based clock to illustrate a range of phenomena that further emphasize the strong interaction of the global-scale magnetic systems of the Hale Cycle: the vast majority, 96%, of all X-flares happen between the Terminator and pre-Terminator. In addition to the X-rays from violent flares, rapid changes in the number of energetic photons—EUV spectral emission from a hot corona and the F10.7 solar radio flux—impinging on the atmosphere are predictable from the Terminator-normalized unit cycle, which has implications for improving the fidelity of atmospheric modelling.
Exploitation of the IPHAS to Investigate Planetary Nebulae
Authors: Sabin Laurence , Toalá Jesús A. , Ramos-Larios Gerardo , Guerrero Martín A.
Published: May 2022

Similar to other classes of astronomical objects, there is a large discrepancy between the total count of theoretically predicted planetary nebulae (PNe) and the number of those actually observed. This discrepancy introduces bias in our attempt to globally understand and characterize the PNe population. Major efforts have been made to find the missing PNe. In particular, the INT Photometric Hα Survey (IPHAS) has, since its debut, provided a whelm of new (candidate) PNe, some of which have been studied in depth using various methodologies such as deep imaging and low- and high-resolution spectroscopy. Here, we present the outcome of the analysis of a first group of these well-investigated IPHAS PNe with a focus on the extended ones. We show that, in general, the missing objects that were expected to be unveiled by the survey (low density, evolved, and distant) are indeed discovered, but the survey also allows the retrieval of “simply” overlooked PNe.
Involvement of MIR-126 and MMP9 in the Pathogenesis of Intra-Abdominal Fistulizing Crohn’s Disease: A Brief Research Report
Authors: Luceri Cristina , D’Ambrosio Mario , Bigagli Elisabetta , Cinci Lorenzo , Russo Edda , Staderini Fabio , Cricchio Marta , Giudici Francesco , Scaringi Stefano
Published: May 2022

Background

Intra-abdominal fistulas are complications that affect a significant proportion of Crohn’s disease patients, often requiring surgery. The aim of the present work was to correlate the occurrence of intestinal fistulization to the clinico-pathological features of these patients and to the plasma levels of MMP9, a gelatinase involved in the pathophysiology of fistula formation, and of miR-126, appearing to modulate MMP9 expression.

Methods

In a series of 31 consecutive Crohn’s patients admitted to surgery due to therapeutic failure and/or complicated disease, we identified nine cases of abdominal fistulas, mainly entero-enteric fistulas. MMP9 protein was determined in plasma and at the intestinal level using immunometric assays. Circulating miR-126 was also measured in all plasma samples by real-time PCR.

Results

Comparing patients with and without intra-abdominal fistulas, we did not observe differences in terms of age, gender, disease location and duration, number of previous surgeries and pre-biologic medications. However, cases with intra-abdominal fistulas had a significantly higher CDAI (p < 0.0001) and a significantly lower circulating miR-126 (p < 0.05). Patients with intra-abdominal fistulas had also a significantly higher amount of circulating MMP9 (p < 0.0001) and this data was correlated with an increased expression of MMP9 protein in the mucosa and with reduced levels of circulating miR-126. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis pointed out the ability of circulating MMP9 to discriminate patients with and without intra-abdominal fistulas.

Conclusions

These data confirm that circulating MMP9 can be used for the identification of cases with intra-abdominal fistulas and suggest that miR-126 may be also involved in the pathogenesis of this complication and that it may be further investigated as a new therapeutic strategy or for monitoring therapeutic response in these patients.
Clinical Evaluation of Paraspinal Mini-Tubular Lumbar Decompression and Minimally Invasive Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion for Lumbar Spondylolisthesis Grade I with Lumbar Spinal Stenosis: A Cohort Study
Authors: Liang Zeyan , Xu Xiongjie , Rao Jian , Chen Yan , Wang Rui , Chen Chunmei
Published: May 2022

Objective

To investigate the clinical outcome data and difference in efficacy between paraspinal mini-tubular lumbar decompression (PMTD) and minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS TLIF) in the treatment of degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis grade I with lumbar spinal stenosis (DLS-I-LSS).

Methods

Patients with DLS-I-LSS, who underwent PMTD or MIS TLIF from September 2017 to March 2020, were included retrospectively. The follow-up period was 24 months after surgery. Outcome measurements included the Oswestry disability index (ODI) score, visual analog scale (VAS) low back pain score, VAS leg pain score, surgical data, and adverse events.

Results

A total of 104 patients with DLS-I-LSS were included in this study. The average improvement in ODI at 12 months (2.0%, 95% CI, −5.7% to 1.8%; p = 0.30) and 24 months (1.7%, 95% CI, −2.7% to 6.1%; p = 0.45) after surgery between the two groups were not statistically significant. The improvement in VAS low back pain score after 24 months and improvement in VAS leg pain score were not significantly different between the two groups. Compared with the PMTD group, the MIS TLIF group had more estimated blood loss and longer hospital stays. The cumulative reoperation rates were 5.66% and 1.96% in the MIS TLIF and PMTD groups, respectively (p = 0.68). The results of multivariate analysis showed that BMI, diabetes, and baseline ODI score were the main factors influencing the improvement in ODI in patients with DLS-I-LSS after minimally invasive surgery, accounting for 50.5% of the total variance.

Conclusions

The clinical effectiveness of PMTD was non-inferior to that of MIS TLIF for DLS-I-LSS; however, there was a reduced duration of hospital stay, operation time, blood loss, and hospitalization costs in the PMTD group. BMI, presence or absence of diabetes and baseline ODI score were influencing factors for the improvement of ODI (Trial Registration: ChiCTR2000040025).
Impact of Pretransplant Renal Replacement Therapy on Clinical Outcome After Isolated Heart Transplantation
Authors: Chen Jeng-Wei , Chou Nai-Kuan , Wang Chih-Hsien , Chi Nai-Hsin , Huang Shu-Chien , Yu Hsi-Yu , Chen Yih-Sharng , Hsu Ron-Bin
Published: May 2022

End stage renal disease (ESRD) is a contraindication to isolated heart transplantation (HT). However, heart candidates with cardiogenic shock may experience acute kidney injury and require renal replacement therapy (RRT) and isolated HT as a life-saving operation. The outcomes, including survival and renal function, are rarely reported. We enrolled 569 patients undergoing isolated HT from 1989 to 2018. Among them, 66 patients required RRT before HT (34 transient and 32 persistent). The survival was worse in patients with RRT than those without (65.2% vs 84.7%; 27.3% vs 51.1% at 1- and 10-year, p < 0.001 and p = 0.012, respectively). Multivariate Cox analysis identified pre-transplant hyperbilirubinemia (Hazard ratio (HR) 2.534, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.098–5.853, p = 0.029), post-transplant RRT (HR 5.551, 95%CI 1.280–24.068, p = 0.022) and post-transplant early bloodstream infection (HR 3.014, 95%CI 1.270–7.152, p = 0.012) as independent risk factors of 1-year mortality. The majority of operative survivors (98%) displayed renal recovery after HT. Although patients with persistent or transient RRT before HT had a similar long-term survival, patients with persistent RRT developed a high incidence (49.2%) of dialysis-dependent ESRD at 10 years. In transplant candidates with pretransplant RRT, hyperbilirubinemia should be carefully re-evaluated for the eligibility of HT whereas prevention and management of bloodstream infection after HT improve survival.
Incidencia de la inversión extranjera directa en relación con las principales variables financieras de agroempresas en Manabí periodo 2013 - 2018
Authors: Aza-Espinosa Diana Alexandra , Guerrero-Sarzosa Lorena Fernanda
Published: May 2022

La inversión extranjera directa es complementaria a la inversión doméstica ecuatoriana, tema inmerso en el sector agropecuario que constituye un elemento de las políticas de soberanía alimentaria a partir de la vida republicana del Ecuador, receptando inversiones extranjeras por la producción de cacao y banano. El objetivo de la investigación es analizar la incidencia originada por la inversión extranjera directa en las empresas del sector agropecuario de la provincia de Manabí en relación con las principales variables financieras periodo 2013–2018. La metodología de investigación es cuantitativa con alcance correlacional y diseño no experimental de tipo longitudinal, para una muestra de 26 empresas. El comportamiento de la inversión extranjera directa de las empresas del agro, se estableció con el análisis de tipo descriptivo; la situación financiera fue evaluada mediante indicadores financieros; y se determinó la correlación entre la inversión extranjera directa con las ventas, utilidad e inversión, mediante el coeficiente de Pearson. Fue evidenciado que la Inversión Extrajera Directa (IED), en las empresas estudiadas tuvo una tendencia creciente, representando 0,14% en relación con la IED total y los mayores montos provienen de Perú y Panamá. La posición financiera de las empresas con IED, en promedio se situó sobre la media de la industria. Las correlaciones entre las variables financieras (ventas, utilidad e inversión) con la IED fueron positivas bajas, con impacto no significativo.
Synchronization Optimization of Pipe Diameter and Operation Frequency in a Pressurized Irrigation Network Based on the Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Pang Yiyuan , Li Hong , Tang Pan , Chen Chao
Published: May 2022

The pressurized irrigation network aims to deliver water to consumption nodes at an appropriate pressure and discharge. The traditional pipe network optimization minimizes the annual operating cost or investment per unit area. The present work establishes the traditional pipe diameter and operating frequency optimization models based on flattish terrain. It proposes a new synchronization optimization method of pipe diameter and operation frequency to find the best match point for pipe diameter and operating frequency in the branched network system. The irrigation costs of the above three models, including the energy and pipe network costs, are compared with the original irrigation network system. Based on the results of optimizing the typical experimental field, the operation frequency optimization model and the pipe diameter optimization model can save about 1.4% and 10.6% in irrigation cost, respectively. Furthermore, the synchronous optimization model can significantly reduce the irrigation cost to about 19.3%, including a 26.6% reduction in the pipe network cost and a 21.9% increase in the energy cost. Compared with pipe diameter optimization, synchronous optimization can further reduce network costs while generating lower energy costs. The results of this research can be used for the design of the network system in flattish terrain to reduce the irrigation cost.
Optimizing Crop Systems: Integrating Forage Triticale into the Fallow of Peanut Monoculture in the North China Plain
Authors: You Yongliang , Deng Jianqiang , Liu Guibo , Yang Xianlong , Zhang Zhixin , Shen Yuying
Published: May 2022

Integrating a forage crop into the fallow (F) of the peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) (P) mono-cropping system is a practical approach to provide forage yield and increase the resource use efficiency. However, little information about the comprehensive assessment of water utilization and economic benefits in the crop–livestock system exists for the North China Plain (NCP). This study aims to identify the crop rotation for optimizing water management and enhance economic benefit. The field experiment was performed over three years (2011–2014) to assess production, water utilization, and economic benefits when inserting forage triticale (X Triticosecale Wittmack) (T) into the peanut mono-cropping system. Results showed that replacing the fallow F-P cropping system with forage triticale provided a substantial amount of forage (the average of 9.8 t ha−1 per year) and enhanced the average system productivity by 85.1%. Cultivation of forage triticale during the fallow period decreased the subsequent peanut pod yield by 8.3% due to a 19.3% decline in soil water storage capacity during the sowing stage of peanut. Replacing fallow with forage triticale increased the system net income by 1016.2 US$ ha−1 and the water use efficiency (WUE) by 30.0%, while not affecting the economic efficiency of water use (EEWU), and thus can be recommended as a better option for maintaining relatively high system production, economic benefit, and WUE in NCP.
Evaluation of Genetic Resources in a Potato Breeding Program for Chip Quality
Authors: Ruiz de Arcaute Roberto , Carrasco Ana , Ortega Felisa , Rodriguez-Quijano Marta , Carrillo José M.
Published: May 2022

The objective of this study was to assess the ability of experimental advanced breeding clones as parental genotypes to transmit agronomic and quality traits to their progenies in breeding programs. A half diallel set of crosses (excluding reciprocals) with six parents was assayed in field trials for three years; four of the parents were Solanumtuberosum subsp. tuberosum cultivars, and two of them were advanced breeding clones that included genes from S. tuberosum subsp. andigenum with immunity to PVY virus and good agronomic performance. However, no information was available about the behavior of these clones as parental materials for quality traits, such as potato chip quality. The diallel mating design allowed us to discover their ability to transmit agronomic and quality traits to their offspring. Significant effects on general combining ability and specific combining ability were found for plant maturity, only general combining ability effects for specific gravity were found, and interactions of both general combining ability and specific combining ability with the environment for the chip color trait were found. However, no genetic effects were detected for yield. Where general combining ability significant effects were found, additive genetic effects are predominant; thus, so for those traits, it would be possible to use these genotypes as parents to obtain improved progenies. Such abilities were not found in the advanced breeding clones.
Grain Yield Potential and Stability of Soybean Genotypes of Different Ages across Diverse Environments in Southern Africa
Authors: Mushoriwa Hapson , Mathew Isack , Gwata Eastonce T. , Tongoona Pangirayi , Derera John
Published: May 2022

Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill] is an important crop in southern Africa where it is cultivated in a wide range of agro-ecologies. Both spatial and seasonal variability is high in the region. As a result, breeders aim to release varieties with a fine balance of high productivity potential and stability. Genotype × environment interaction (GEI) limits the selection of superior genotypes in heterogeneous environments consequently slowing down breeding progress. This study determined the magnitude of GEI effects and genotype superiority index of soybean genotypes of different ages across three countries in southern Africa. Forty-two soybean genotypes that were released between 1966 and 2013 were evaluated for two seasons at thirteen diverse locations across the three countries. Additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) and genotype superiority index tools were used to analyse both productivity and stability performance of these genotypes. The AMMI analysis showed that grain yield variation due to genotypes, environments main effects and GEI were highly significant (p < 0.001). Environments explained the greatest proportion (77%) of the total treatment sum of squares followed by GEI (17.4%) and genotypes (5.6%), justifying the need for multi-environmental trials over many seasons in this region. The two methods were useful in discriminating and identifying common productive and stable genotypes of different ages. The top four high-yielding (>5.0 tha−1) genotypes displayed both stability and genotype superiority index. These findings have important implications for soybean genotype recommendations, breeding progress, and strategy.
Evaluation of Raw Cheese as a Novel Source of Biofertilizer with a High Level of Biosecurity for Blueberry
Authors: Nunes Ana R. , Sánchez-Juanes Fernando , Gonçalves Ana C. , Alves Gilberto , Silva Luís R. , Flores-Félix José David
Published: May 2022

Today’s agriculture requires the search for new and modern tools in order to improve and expand the use of its crops and to increase their sustainability. The use of plant growth-promoting PGP bacteria (PGPB) is the target of much research and seems to be an ideal strategy as long as the strains are properly selected for this purpose. Among the bacteria, lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are considered a suitable alternative due to their high biosafety and mechanisms for promoting plant growth. In view of this, in this work we decided to isolate LAB with PGP capacity from raw milk cheese of the PDO “Serra da Estrela”. A total of 88 strains with a high diversity and remarkable capacity to control food-borne and pathogenic microorganisms were isolated. In addition, most of them showed excellent capacities for phosphate solubilization and the production of indole-3-acetic acid and siderophores. Subsequently, we also studied their inoculation in blueberry seedlings. Among the isolates, strains QSE20, QSE62 and QSE79 showed the most remarkable ability to efficiently colonize the rhizosphere of this plant, improving root development and increasing the number of secondary roots.
Dopamine, Chlorogenic Acid, and Quinones as Possible Cofactors of Increasing Adventitious Rooting Potential of In Vitro Krymsk 5 Cherry Rootstock Explants
Authors: Tsafouros Athanasios , Roussos Peter A.
Published: May 2022

In the present study, the effect of some not commonly used phenolic compounds was evaluated during the in vitro rooting stage of the cherry rootstock ‘Krymsk 5′ (P. fruticosa × P. lannesiana), in the absence or presence of auxin. Two sets of experiments were conducted. In the first set, the following substances were tested: the o-diphenol chlorogenic acid, in five concentrations (0 μΜ, 0.5 μΜ, 1 μΜ, 5 μΜ, and 50 μΜ) in the presence of a suboptimal indolebutyric acid (IBA) concentration (5 μΜ), the catecholamine dopamine in five concentrations (0 μΜ, 0.5 μΜ, 1 μΜ, 5 μΜ, and 50 μΜ), and the quinone 5-hydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone in four concentrations (0 μΜ, 0.25 μΜ, 1 μΜ, and 5 μΜ) in the absence or presence of 5 μΜ IBA. In the second experiment, the quinones p-benzoquinone; 1,4-napthoquinone; and 2-hydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone were tested in four concentrations (0 μΜ, 5 μΜ, 50 μΜ, and 100 μΜ) in the presence of 5 μΜ IBA. An application of 5 μΜ of 5-hydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone in the auxin-free medium increased rooting potential almost 1.7 times. Rooting percentage was also enhanced up to 4.2 times by dopamine; chlorogenic acid; 5-hydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone; p-benzoquinone; and 1,4 napthoquinone in the presence of IBA. The present results indicate a possible promotive role of quinones and dopamine during in vitro rooting, at least for Prunus species, and their potential use as rooting cofactors. Moreover, a possible mode of action of the compounds studied related to IAA-oxidase is discussed.
Occurrence of Chlamydiae in Corvids in Northeast Italy
Authors: Aaziz Rachid , Laroucau Karine , Gobbo Federica , Salvatore Daniela , Schnee Christiane , Terregino Calogero , Lupini Caterina , Di Francesco Antonietta
Published: May 2022

Chlamydiaceae occurrence has been largely evaluated in wildlife, showing that wild birds are efficient reservoirs for avian chlamydiosis. In this study, DNA extracted from cloacal swabs of 108 corvids from Northeast Italy was screened for Chlamydiaceae by 23S real-time (rt)PCR. The positive samples were characterised by specific rtPCRs for Chlamydia psittaci, Chlamydia abortus, Chlamydia gallinacea, Chlamydia avium, Chlamydia pecorum and Chlamydia suis. Cloacal shedding of Chlamydiaceae was detected in 12 out of 108 (11.1%, 5.9%–18.6% 95% CI) corvids sampled. Molecular characterisation at the species level was possible in 8/12 samples, showing C. psittaci positivity in only one sample from a hooded crow and C. abortus positivity in seven samples, two from Eurasian magpies and five from hooded crows. Genotyping of the C. psittaci-positive sample was undertaken via PCR/high-resolution melting, clustering it in group III_pigeon, corresponding to the B genotype based on former ompA analysis. For C. abortus genotyping, multilocus sequence typing was successfully performed on the two samples with high DNA load from Eurasian magpies, highlighting 100% identity with the recently reported Polish avian C. abortus genotype 1V strain 15-58d44. To confirm the intermediate characteristics between C. psittaci and C. abortus, both samples, as well as two samples from hooded crows, showed the chlamydial plasmid inherent in most C. psittaci and avian C. abortus, but not in ruminant C. abortus strains. The plasmid sequences were highly similar (≥99%) to those of the Polish avian C. abortus genotype 1V strain 15-58d44. To our knowledge, this is the first report of avian C. abortus strains in Italy, specifically genotype 1V, confirming that they are actively circulating in corvids in the Italian region tested.
Importance of Breed, Parity and Sow Colostrum Components on Litter Performance and Health
Authors: Amatucci Laura , Luise Diana , Correa Federico , Bosi Paolo , Trevisi Paolo
Published: May 2022

The aims of this study were to investigate the effect of breed and parity on colostrum components, and to associate sow breed, parity, and colostrum components with survival, growth, and the occurrence of diarrhoea of their litters. In Experiment 1, 64 sows (Duroc = 13; Landrace = 17 and Large White = 34) were included. In Experiment 2, 71 sows with different parities (1 = 10; 2 = 16; 3 = 13; 4 = 12; ≥5 = 20) were included. The number (N) of live piglets, litter body weight (Experiment 1), and the occurrence of diarrhoea (Experiment 1) were recorded at farrowing, at 2–3 days of age, and at weaning. Colostrum was analysed for proximate composition, immunoglobulins (Igs), and somatic cell count (SCC). Stepwise regressions and ANOVA models were used to associate breed, parity, and colostrum components with litter performance. The Duroc breed had the highest IgG and IgA (p < 0.005). Gilts had a higher fat% and SCC (p< 0.0001); these compounds were positively correlated (r = 0.45). Increased IgA tended to increase the N of weaned piglets (p = 0.058) and reduce litter diarrhoea (p = 0.021). The SCC increased the N of weaned piglets (p = 0.031). Overall, this study confirmed that breed and parity can influence the colostrum composition and highlighted the key role of Igs and somatic cells in piglet health.
Temporal Variation of Meropenem Resistance in E. coli Isolated from Sewage Water in Islamabad, Pakistan
Authors: Yasmin Saba , Karim Asad-Mustafa , Lee Sang-Hee , Zahra Rabaab
Published: May 2022

The WHO has classified carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae in most critical priority pathogens that pose a threat to human health. The present study investigated the prevalence of meropenem-resistant Escherichia coli (E. coli) in relation to its temporal variation in different seasons along with its resistance markers in sewage water. E. coli was selected on MacConkey agar containing meropenem (3 µg/mL). There were 27% of sites/sewage samples carrying meropenem-resistant E. coli. All E. coli were confirmed through the amplification of the uidA gene. All isolated E. coli were multidrug-resistant (MDR), and among them, 51% were extensively drug-resistant (XDR). An antibiogram determined against 15 antibiotics showed the highest resistance to ampicillin and cefotaxime (98% each) and lowest resistance to fosfomycin (2%). Phylogenetic groups and resistance gene analysis through PCR showed a significant co-occurrence of carbapenemases with extended spectrum beta lactamases (ESBLs), plasmid encoded quinolone, and colistin resistance genes. The higher number of resistance genes in E. coli isolates in community sewage indirectly indicate that these isolates circulate abundantly in the community.
Transmission of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus spp. from Infected Dogs to the Home Environment and Owners
Authors: Røken Mari , Iakhno Stanislav , Haaland Anita Haug , Wasteson Yngvild , Bjelland Ane Mohn
Published: May 2022

Dogs with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus spp. (MRS) infections often undergo treatment in their homes, interacting with their owners and surroundings. This close contact between dogs and owners may facilitate the interspecies transmission of MRS. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the transmission of MRS from infected dogs to their owners and home environments. Seven households with dogs that had been diagnosed with methicillin-resistant S. pseudintermedius (MRSP) and one household with a dog with methicillin-resistant S. epidermidis (MRSE) participated in the study. Dogs, owners, and the home environments were screened for the presence of clinical MRS. A selection of 36 staphylococcal isolates were whole-genome sequenced and screened for resistance genes and virulence genes. Clinical MRS were primarily identified from the dogs and their immediate surroundings, but these were also detected in locations that were out of reach for the dogs, indicating indirect transmission. Two of eight owners carried clinical MRS in their nostrils, while one owner carried methicillin-susceptible S. pseudintermedius (MSSP). All clinical MRS were multi-resistant, and several possessed resistance genes that were not expressed phenotypically. Clinical MRSP persisted in the home environment for a prolonged period, despite infection recovery and one dog being euthanized. Regardless of the stable presence of MRSP in the surroundings, the owners in these homes remained negative, but tested positive for MSSP on three occasions.
OGG1 in Lung—More than Base Excision Repair
Authors: Ma Xiaodi , Ming Hewei , Liu Lexin , Zhu Jiahui , Pan Lang , Chen Yu , Xiang Yang
Published: May 2022

As the organ executing gas exchange and directly facing the external environment, the lungs are challenged continuously by various stimuli, causing the disequilibration of redox homeostasis and leading to pulmonary diseases. The breakdown of oxidants/antioxidants system happens when the overproduction of free radicals results in an excess over the limitation of cleaning capability, which could lead to the oxidative modification of macromolecules including nucleic acids. The most common type of oxidative base, 8-oxoG, is considered the marker of DNA oxidative damage. The appearance of 8-oxoG could lead to base mismatch and its accumulation might end up as tumorigenesis. The base 8-oxoG was corrected by base excision repair initiated by 8-oxoguanine DNA glycosylase-1 (OGG1), which recognizes 8-oxoG from the genome and excises it from the DNA double strand, generating an AP site for further processing. Aside from its function in DNA damage repairment, it has been reported that OGG1 takes part in the regulation of gene expression, derived from its DNA binding characteristic, and showed impacts on inflammation. Researchers believe that OGG1 could be the potential therapy target for relative disease. This review intends to make an overall summary of the mechanism through which OGG1 regulates gene expression and the role of OGG1 in pulmonary diseases.
Vitamin C Attenuates Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Apoptosis Induced by Acute Hypoxia through the Nrf2/Keap1 Signaling Pathway in Gibel Carp (Carassius gibelio)
Authors: Wu Liyun , Xu Wenjie , Li Hongyan , Dong Bo , Geng Hancheng , Jin Junyan , Han Dong , Liu Haokun , Zhu Xiaoming , Yang Yunxia , Xie Shouqi
Published: May 2022

Previous studies have found that vitamin C (VC) has protective effects in fish. However, the efficacy of VC on hypoxia-induced liver injury in fish remains unknown. Therefore, to investigate the protective mechanism of VC on liver injury after acute hypoxic stimulation in fish, gibel carp were fed a diet containing VC for eight weeks, then were subjected to acute hypoxia stimulation. The specific growth rate of fish was increased by the supplementation of VC. Plasma stress markers (glucose, lactic acid, and cortisol) were decreased by the VC supplementation. Moreover, the levels of the inflammatory cytokines (tnf-α, il-2, il-6, and il-12) were increased by enhancing the Nrf2/Keap1 signaling pathway. Upregulation of the antioxidant enzymes activity (CAT, SOD, and GPx); T-AOC; and anti-inflammatory factors (il-4 and tgf-β) highlighted the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of VC. The results showed that VC reduced the apoptotic index of the fish hypothalamus. The expression of GRP78 protein in the liver and endoplasmic reticulum stress and apoptosis induced by hypoxia were inhibited by VC. Taken together, the results indicate that VC can attenuate oxidative damage, inflammation, and acute hypoxia induced apoptosis in gibel carp via the Nrf2/Keap1 signaling pathway. The results identify a new defense strategy of gibel carp in response to hypoxic conditions.
Long-Term Feeding with Curcumin Affects the Growth, Antioxidant Capacity, Immune Status, Tissue Histoarchitecture, Immune Expression of Proinflammatory Cytokines, and Apoptosis Indicators in Nile Tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus
Authors: Amer Shimaa A. , El-Araby Doaa A. , Tartor Haitham , Farahat Mahmoud , Goda Nehal I. A. , Farag Mohamed F. M. , Fahmy Esraa M. , Hassan Aziza M. , Abo El-Maati Mohamed F. , Osman Ali
Published: May 2022

The impact of dietary curcumin (CUR) on the growth, antioxidant activity, histomorphology of certain organs, proinflammatory cytokine production, and immune status of Oreochromis niloticus was evaluated. The fingerlings (n = 225, 41.60 ± 0.09 g/fish) were randomly allotted into five experimental groups in triplicate. Fish were fed basal diets complemented with 0, 200, 400, 600, or 800 mg curcumin/kg diet (CUR0, CUR200, CUR400, CUR600, and CUR800, respectively) for 10 weeks. An increase in fish growth was reported in the CUR200 and CUR400 groups. The feed conversion ratio was enhanced by 15% in the CUR400 group. Fish body protein content was increased in the CUR600 group (p ≤ 0.01). Body fat was decreased, and ash content was increased by CUR supplementation in a level-related way (p < 0.05). The villus height was increased in the CUR400 and CUR600 groups. The villus width was increased by CUR supplementation, with the best result found in the CUR600 group. The liver of CUR-fed fish displayed comparatively normal hepatocytes. TNF-α and caspase-3 were significantly upregulated by dietary CUR in a level-related way. The serum catalase activity and GSH level were increased in CUR200 and CUR400 groups. Curcumin supplementation boosted the serum SOD activity and reduced the MDA level. IL10 and IgM levels were increased in the CUR200 and CUR400 groups. Lysozyme activity was increased in the CUR200–400 groups. Serum complement 3 level was increased in the CUR400 group. The percentage survival of O. niloticus challenged with Aeromonas hydrophila was highest in the CUR200-CUR600 groups (100%) and decreased in the CUR800 group (80%). This study concluded that CUR could be added to Nile tilapia diets up to 400 mg·kg−1 to achieve better growth, antioxidant capacity, immune response, and intestinal histology. Long feeding periods on high levels of CUR (600 and 800 mg·kg−1) stimulate inflammatory reactions in fish tissues.
Numerical Study on the Deformation of Tunnels by Excavation of Foundation Pit Adjacent to the Subway
Authors: Zhao Xiang , Wang Hanxuan , Li Zhongwei , Dai Guoliang , Yin Ziwei , Cao Shuning , Zhou Junlong
Published: May 2022

The excavation of the foundation pit will cause changes in the soil stress field around the foundation pit, and that may have adverse effects on the adjacent subway tunnels. In this paper, a complex deep foundation pit excavated in different sections is taken as the research object, and the support structure of the complex foundation pit project is introduced, which accumulates experience in the selection of support structure for similar projects. The finite element models are established by MIDAS/GTS software to evaluate the influence of excavation in different sections of the foundation pit on the tunnel deformation, and the accuracy of the finite element calculation results is verified by comparing the monitoring data. The results show that: The horizontal deformation of the subway tunnel is generally smaller than the vertical deformation. Tunnel monitoring should focus more on the development of the vertical deformation of the tunnel. The maximum vertical deformation and horizontal deformation of the tunnel are both smaller than the local specification limits, and the excavation of the foundation pit in this project has little influence on the deformation of the subway tunnel.
Influence of Process Parameters on Filling and Feeding Capacity during High-Pressure Die-Casting Process
Authors: Wang Tingli , Huang Jian , Fu Hongyuan , Yu Ke , Yao Shan
Published: May 2022

The quality of high-pressure die casting (HPDC) is largely determined by the process parameters. The objective is to study the influence of process parameters on melt filling and feeding capacity. The research is carried out by means of numerical simulations and orthogonal experiments. The results show that the influence of process parameters is different. The piston velocity of the fast stage has the most obvious impact. As the piston velocity of the fast stage increases, the filling capacity and feeding capacity also increase. The melt injection temperature should not be too low; otherwise, it would be easy to cause gas porosity. The piston velocity of the slow stage should not be too high; otherwise, it would cause air entrainment. The influence of the pressure maintaining time is not obvious due to the ingate solidifying prematurely. The recommended process parameters are a melt injection temperature of 660–680 °C, a piston velocity of 0.1–0.2 m/s in the slow stage, and a piston velocity 2.4–3.2 m/s in the fast stage. This also suggests that appropriate technology should be adopted to delay the solidification time of the ingate in order to realize the feeding effect of pressurization.
Heat Transfer Enhancement of Nanofluids with Non-Spherical Nanoparticles: A Review
Authors: Li Xiaoyin , Yuan Fangyang , Tian Wenma , Dai Chenlong , Yang Xinjun , Wang Dongxiang , Du Jiyun , Yu Wei , Yuan Huixin
Published: May 2022

This article reviews the heat transfer enhancement of nanofluids with non-spherical nanoparticles. We divided the non-spherical nanoparticles suspended in nanofluids into three categories based on the dimension of geometric particle structure. Based on the measured data in experimental studies, we then evaluated the shape effect of non-spherical nanoparticles on thermal conductivity and convective heat transfer enhancement of nanofluids. Recent studies explored the numerical predictions and related heat transfer mechanisms. Due to large aspect ratios, thermal conductivity is abnormally enhanced only for nanofluids with carbon nanotubes/nanofibers/nanowires. The approximate enhancement effect exerted by three types of non-spherical nanoparticles on thermal conductivity was 4.5:2.5:1. Thermal conductivity enhancement per concentration was larger for nanorods/ellipsoids with small aspect ratios. The convective heat transfer coefficient was increased by suspending non-spherical nanoparticles in the base fluid. Consequently, no significant thermohydraulic performance was discovered for convective heat transfer of non-spherical nanoparticle nanofluid flow, specifically for turbulent flows, due to increased pumping power. However, the temperature and particle concentration effect on convective heat transfer remains unclear. In addition, no perfect model for predicting the thermal conductivity and convective heat transfer of non-spherical nanoparticle nanofluids has been reported.
Complex-Order Models: A System Identification Point of View
Authors: Kapetina Mirna N. , Rapaić Milan R. , Jeličić Zoran D. , Lino Paolo , Maione Guido
Published: May 2022

The present paper proposes a framework for the systematic and fruitful application of complex-order operators for modeling and control applications. We emphasize that special care must be taken when using complex-order elements to ensure that their responses to real-valued stimuli are real-valued themselves. The proposed complex-order real-valued elements enable the seamless generalization of their conventional real and integer-order counterparts. We further demonstrate how any linear operator can be extended in much the same way as the differintegral, by “raising” it to a power of a complex order, while ensuring that its kernel remains real-valued. The applicability of our considerations is demonstrated by a model of a compressed natural gas injection system.
Object Detection Algorithm for Wheeled Mobile Robot Based on an Improved YOLOv4
Authors: Hu Yanxin , Liu Gang , Chen Zhiyu , Guo Jianwei
Published: May 2022

In practical applications, the intelligence of wheeled mobile robots is the trend of future development. Object detection for wheeled mobile robots requires not only the recognition of complex surroundings, but also the deployment of algorithms on resource-limited devices. However, the current state of basic vision technology is insufficient to meet demand. Based on this practical problem, in order to balance detection accuracy and detection efficiency, we propose an object detection algorithm based on a combination of improved YOLOv4 and improved GhostNet in this paper. Firstly, the backbone feature extraction network of original YOLOv4 is replaced with the trimmed GhostNet network. Secondly, enhanced feature extraction network in the YOLOv4, ordinary convolution is supplanted with a combination of depth-separable and ordinary convolution. Finally, the hyperparameter optimization was carried out. The experimental results show that the improved YOLOv4 network proposed in this paper has better object detection performance. Specifically, the precision, recall, F1, mAP (0.5) values, and mAP (0.75) values are 88.89%, 87.12%, 88.00%, 86.84%, and 50.91%, respectively. Although the mAP (0.5) value is only 2.23% less than the original YOLOv4, it is higher than YOLOv4_tiny, Eifficientdet-d0, YOLOv5n, and YOLOv5 compared to 29.34%, 28.99%, 20.36%, and 18.64%, respectively. In addition, it outperformed YOLOv4 in terms of mAP (0.75) value and precision, and its model size is only 42.5 MB, a reduction of 82.58% when compared to YOLOv4’s model size.
Natural Stones with a Self-Cleaning Surface via Self-Assembled Monolayers
Authors: Duan Zhuoqi , Xie Zaixin , Zhou Bao , Yang Xiaobo , Nie Heng-Yong , Hu Yongmao
Published: May 2022

Heritage buildings and monuments are mostly made from natural stone, which undergoes irreversible decay under outdoor conditions. The main reason for the contamination, degradation, and cracking of natural stones is water and oil permeation. Hence, modifications on stones rendering their surface self-cleaning are effective for stone protection. Reported in this paper is the development of a bionic approach to enabling self-cleaning stone surface via growing self-assembled polydopamine (PDA) as the adhesive layer on the stone surface, followed by depositing Al2O3 nanoparticles derivatized by self-assembled monolayers of a fluorophosphonic acid (FPA). This approach ensured a robust surface modification that realized superhydrophobicity, as demonstrated on natural marbles, Hedishi, and Qingshi. The surface modification was thermally stable up to 400 °C.