bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Productive Performance and Blood Biochemical Parameters of Dairy Cows Fed Different Levels of High-Protein Concentrate
Authors: Buryakov Nikolai , Aleshin Dmitrii , Buryakova Maria , Zaikina Anastasya , Nasr Mohammed , Nassan Mohamed , Fathala Mohamed
Published: April 2022

This study investigated the productive traits and some blood biochemical parameters of high-yielding Ayrshire dairy cows fed at different levels of Agro-Matic@LLC NGO, Russia (Agro-Matic (AM)) protein concentrate. A total of 45 high-yielding Ayrshire cows were selected and divided into three groups, each 15. The control group (0AM) fed the basal ration, while group two (1AM) and group three (2AM) fed a basal ration by replacing sunflower cake with different levels of AM (1 and 1.5 kg/head/day), respectively. Milk and blood samples were collected. The current results revealed that the ratio of rumen undegradable protein to rumen degradable protein during the period of lactation was significantly higher in the 1AM and 2AM compared with 0AM and represented (55.04, 62.14, and 41.73%), respectively. The 1AM had a beneficial effect on the digestibility of crude protein. Daily and whole fat-corrected milk (FCM 4 %) was significantly increased by 3 kg/day and 987 kg/entire lactation in 2AM when compared with 0AM, respectively. Blood total protein was significantly higher in the 1AM group (86.9 vs. 77.8 g/l) than the 0AM, while AM decreased urea concentration. Consequently, the inclusions of AM protein concentrate have a positive impact on increasing milk production and optimizing the rations in terms of the amount of non-digestible protein and the economic efficiency of milk production.
Regulatory T Cell Modulation by Lactobacillus rhamnosus Improves Feather Damage in Chickens
Authors: Mindus Claire , van Staaveren Nienke , Fuchs Dietmar , Gostner Johanna M. , Kjaer Joergen B. , Kunze Wolfgang , Mian M. Firoz , Shoveller Anna K. , Forsythe Paul , Harlander-Matauschek Alexandra
Published: April 2022

It is currently unclear whether potential probiotics such as lactic acid bacteria could affect behavioral problems in birds. To this end, we assessed whether a supplementation of Lactobacillus rhamnosus JB-1 can reduce stress-induced severe feather pecking (SFP), feather damage and fearfulness in adult birds kept for egg laying. In parallel, we assessed SFP genotypic and phenotypic-related immune responses and aromatic amino acid status linked to neurotransmitter production. Social stress aggravated plumage damage, while L. rhamnosus treatment improved the birds' feather cover in non-stressed birds, but did not impact fearfulness. Our data demonstrate the significant impact of L. rhamnosus supplementation on the immune system. L. rhamnosus supplementation induced immunosuppressive regulatory T cells and cytotoxic T cells in both the cecal tonsils and the spleen. Birds exhibiting the SFP phenotype possessed lower levels of cecal tonsils regulatory T cells, splenic T helper cells and a lower TRP:(PHE+TYR). Together, these results suggest that bacteria may have beneficial effects on the avian immune response and may be useful therapeutic adjuncts to counteract SFP and plumage damage, thus increasing animal health and welfare.
Impacts of Colored Light-Emitting Diode Illumination on the Reproductive Performance and Bioactive Constituents and the Molecular Mechanism of Hypothalamus Gland in Zi-geese
Authors: Manyu Li , Xiuhua Zhao , Guojun Liu , Guixue Zhang
Published: April 2022

Goose is a seasonal breeding animal. Its reproduction is regulated by hypothalamus-pituitary-gonad axis and also affected by environmental factors such as light and location. Zi-goose is characterized with long egg-laying period and high egg-laying potential and belongs to the long-day type of seasonal breeding. In this study, the regulation mechanism of different lighting on reproductive performance of Zi-goose by using metabonomics analysis technology. In addition, 1,481 differential metabolites were screened out totally. 583 differential metabolites were identification in hypothalamus of Zi-goose. 196 differential metabolites were identification in pituitary of Zi-goose. 692 differential metabolites were identification in ovary of Zi-goose. Under red light condition for 12 h, expression of 433 differential metabolites were down-regulated and expression of 150 differential metabolites were up regulated in hypothalamus of Zi-goose, expression of 125 differential metabolites were down-regulated and expression of 71 differential metabolites were up-regulated in pituitary of Zi-goose, expression of 355 differential metabolites were down-regulated and expression of 337 differential metabolites were up-regulated in ovary of Zi-goose. 33 differential metabolites were closely associated with 1,264 transcripts and 400 homologous genes of related enzymes in hypothalamus of Zi-goose. 15 differential metabolites were closely associated with 163 transcripts and 47 homologous genes of related enzymes in pituitary of Zi-goose. 55 differential metabolites were closely associated with 1,255 transcripts and 360 homologous genes of related enzymes in ovary of Zi-goose. It was confirmed that four metabolic pathways were closely related to light regulation of reproductive performance of Zi-goose, namely GnRH signaling pathway, prolactin signaling pathway, thyroid hormone synthesis and ovarian steroidogenesis. Typical differential metabolites of arachidonic acid, glucose-6-phosphate, progesterone, glutathione, oxidized glutathione, testosterone, deoxyepiandrosterone and their related protein genes would play an important role in light regulation of reproductive performance of Zi-goose.
Combined Maternal and Post-Hatch Dietary Supplementation of 25-Hydroxycholecalciferol Alters Early Post-Hatch Broiler Chicken Duodenal Macrophage and Crypt Cell Populations and Their Mitotic Activity
Authors: Leiva Samuel F. , Avila Luis P. , Abascal-Ponciano Gerardo A. , Flees Joshua J. , Sweeney Kelly M. , Wilson Jeanna L. , Starkey Jessica D. , Starkey Charles W.
Published: April 2022

The previous work has demonstrated that maternal supplementation of the circulating metabolite of vitamin D3 (D3), 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (25OHD3), enhances the immunocompetence of broiler chick offspring. In post-hatch broiler diets, 25OHD3 has been shown to affect intestinal morphology and improve the immune status of broilers. An experiment with a 2 × 2 factorial treatment arrangement was conducted to assess the effects of combining maternal (MDIET) and post-hatch (PDIET) dietary 25OHD3 inclusion on duodenal crypt and macrophage cell populations and mitotic activity in young broiler chickens. All diets were formulated to provide 5,000 IU of vitamin D. Broiler breeder hens were offered 1 of 2 MDIET: 5,000 IU D3 per kg of feed (MCTL) or 2,240 IU of D3 + 2,760 IU of 25OHD3 per kg of feed (M25OHD3) from week 25 to 41. Male broiler offspring (n = 480) hatched from eggs collected during week 41 of breeding age were allotted in raised floor pens (4 birds per pen from day 0 to 7 and individually allotted from day 8 to 21). Chicks were fed 1 of 2 PDIET (starter day 0 to 21): 5,000 IU D3 per kg of feed (PCTL) or 2,240 IU D3 + 2,760 IU 25OHD3 (P25OHD3). DUO samples (n = 12 birds per treatment per day) were collected on days 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, and 21 for cryohistological and immunofluorescence analysis to facilitate the enumeration of the total macrophages, CD80+ macrophages (pro-inflammatory macrophages), and mitotically active cells (BrdU+) to calculate the proportion of proliferating cells (PPC) per duodenal crypt. Bird age impacted crypt PPC with the greatest PPC per duodenal crypt observed on days 3 and 9, and the lowest PPC per crypt was observed on day 21 (P < 0.0001). Broilers from the M25OHD3:PCTL treatment had a greater PPC (P =.002) than birds from the MCTL:PCTL treatment at day 3. An interaction among MDIET and PDIET was observed for proliferating macrophages at day 21 (P = 0.029) where M25OHD3:P25OHD3 birds had more proliferating macrophages than M25OHD3:PCTL-fed birds. These results indicate that combined MDIET and PDIET 25OHD3 supplementation may alter early post-hatch duodenal development and innate immunity.
Maternal Perceived Stress During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Pre-Existing Risk Factors and Concurrent Correlates in New York City Women
Authors: Ghassabian Akhgar , Jacobson Melanie H. , Kahn Linda G. , Brubaker Sara G. , Mehta-Lee Shilpi S. , Trasande Leonardo
Published: April 2022

Objective: We examined whether pre-pandemic mental health and sociodemographic characteristics increased the susceptibility of pregnant women and mothers of young children to stress in the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods: Between April and August 2020, we surveyed 1560 women participating in a sociodemographically diverse birth cohort in New York City. Women reported their perceived stress, resiliency, and financial, familial/societal, and health-related concerns. We extracted pre-pandemic information from questionnaires and electronic health records.

Results: Pre-pandemic history of depression, current financial difficulties, and COVID-19 infection were the main risk factors associated with high perceived stress. Being Hispanic and having higher resiliency scores and preexisting social support were protective against high perceived stress. Major contributors to current perceived stress were financial and familial/societal factors related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Among pregnant women, changes to prenatal care were common, as were changes to experiences following birth among postpartum women and difficulties in arranging childcare among mothers of young children.

Conclusion: Our findings suggest that major risk factors of higher stress during the pandemic were similar to those of other major traumatic events.
Factors Explaining Adolescent Girls’ Eating Habits in Urban Benin: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Mama Chabi Sherifath , Fanou-Fogny Nadia , Nago Koukoubou Eunice , Deforche Benedicte , Van Lippevelde Wendy
Published: April 2022

Adolescence is a period between childhood and adulthood with eating habits often against the nutritional needs of adolescents. The present study used a socio-ecological approach to investigate personal and environmental factors influencing the eating habits of 15- to 19-years old Beninese urban schoolgirls. Eleven focus groups (n = 77) and seven individual interviews were conducted with adolescent girls attending school in Cotonou, Benin. Focus groups were as homogeneous as possible regarding age group and school character. Transcripts were analyzed using an inductive-deductive thematic method using the socio-ecological model. Taste preference for sweet foods, insufficient dietary knowledge and low personal income were factors explaining unhealthy food choices, while higher self-efficacy and healthy outcome expectations mainly characterized their healthy eating habits at the intrapersonal level. Family influence was beneficial for healthy eating while friends’ pressure led to an unhealthy diet at the interpersonal level. At the organizational level, adolescents reported unhealthy school food environments and urban areas increased their unhealthy eating habits. It appears that one factor alone is not enough to influence adolescent girls’ eating habits. Therefore, this study presents the need of elaborating interventions in a school context to improve eating habits in adolescents focusing on different factors in Beninese adolescent schoolgirls.
Effect of Comb Cell Width on the Activity of the Proteolytic System in the Hemolymph of Apis mellifera Workers
Authors: Dziechciarz Piotr , Strachecka Aneta , Olszewski Krzysztof
Published: April 2022

This study is a continuation of the innovative research of the impact of rearing of bee colonies simultaneously on standard- and small-cell combs on the traits of worker bees and bee colonies. Its aim was to compare the activities of proteases and their inhibitors in the hemolymph of workers reared in a small-cell comb (SMC) and a standard-cell comb (STC) in colonies kept simultaneously on standard- and small-cell combs. The width of comb cells in which workers are reared has a significant effect on the protein concentration and the proteolytic system in the hemolymph, which is reflected in the activities of proteases and their inhibitors. The protein concentrations in the 1-day-old workers were always higher (p ≤ 0.05) in the SMC than STC workers. The opposite was found in the older bee workers (aged 7, 14 and 21 d). The activities of proteases and their inhibitors in the 1-day-old workers were always higher (usually significantly at p ≤ 0.05) in STC than SMC workers, and opposite results were observed in the groups of the older workers (aged 7, 14 and 21 d). The differences between the workers from small-cell combs and those reared in standard-cell combs may be related to their different tasks. Workers reared in small-cell combs probably work as foragers outside the nest, whereas bees reared in standard-cell combs work in the nest. This hypothesis requires confirmation. To reduce the impact of accidental determinants on the results of single-season research on honeybees, it is advisable that such investigations should be conducted for several consecutive years.
Molecular Identification of Bacillus Isolated from Korean Water Deer (Hydropotes inermis argyropus) and Striped Field Mouse (Apodemus agrarius) Feces by Using an SNP-Based 16S Ribosomal Marker
Authors: Rahman Md-Mafizur , Lim Sang-Jin , Park Yung-Chul
Published: April 2022

Ambiguous, heterogeneous, endospore-forming Bacillus species, notably Bacillus cereus, often produce fatal toxins that threaten human health. We identified Bacillus from wild animal fecal samples (n = 80), including the Korean water deer (n = 25) and striped field mouse (n = 55). Using traditional culture-based methods, 25 animal fecal samples (31.25%; 25/80) were found to be positive for Bacillus species, whereas using molecular techniques, 19 samples (23.75%; 19/80) were found to be positive for the same. In addition, we designed a Bacillus species-specific 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene marker and utilized it to identify 19 samples by means of PCR amplification and sequencing, using at least one colony from the 19 Bacillus positive samples. The recovered sequences were matched to sequences of three Bacillus species (B. cereus, B. amyloliquefaciens, and B. megaterium) from the GenBank database. Moreover, the phylogenetic tree generated in this study established specific clades for the Bacillus group. In addition, to differentiate between B. cereus, B. anthracis, and B. thuringiensis, we designed a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)-based primer by identifying SNPs in the alignment of 16S rRNA gene sequences of B. cereus group strains. The SNPs were used to design primer sets for discrimination between highly similar species from the B. cereus group. The study could be used in surveillance of agricultural fresh-produce-associated Bacillus outbreaks, for accurate identification of each Bacillus species, and in the development of control measures.
Effects of Radial Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy in Reducing Pain in Patients with Temporomandibular Disorders: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Marotta Nicola , Ferrillo Martina , Demeco Andrea , Drago Ferrante Vera , Inzitari Maria Teresa , Pellegrino Raffaello , Pino Ilaria , Russo Ilaria , de Sire Alessandro , Ammendolia Antonio
Published: April 2022

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are primarily characterized by pain as well as issues concerning the proper functioning of individual elements of the stomatognathic system. The aim of the study was to assess the safety and efficacy of physical exercise, with or without radial Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (rESWT), in patients with TMD. Eligible patients were adults (≥18 years) with diagnosed myofascial pain with or without mouth opening limitation (Group Ia, Ib) based on the Diagnostic Criteria for TMD (DC/TMD). Enrolled patients (n = 15) were randomly assigned 1:1 to receive physical exercise combined with rESWT (n = 8) or sham rESWT (n = 7) for four weeks. The primary endpoint was the pain intensity measured by a visual analogue scale (VAS). The secondary endpoints were muscle activity and function assessed through the surface electromyography evaluation of the anterior temporalis and the masseter muscles. The rESWT group (mean age: 28.50 ± 8.85 years) showed a statistically significant pain reduction (VAS Right side: ΔT0-T1 MD = −3.00; p = 0.023, Left side: ΔT0-T1, MD = 3.57, p = 0.021), whereas patients in the sham WBV group (mean age: 30.71 ± 8.98 years), did not reach statistical significance (VAS: Right side: ΔT0-T1 MD = 1.00, p = 0.155; Left side: ΔT0-T1 MD = 1.25 SE = 0.25, p = 0.094). Concurrently, muscle activity and performance significantly improved in the active rESWT group, with an improvement in the percentage of the overlapping coefficient (POC) compared to the control group. No dropouts and no side effects were recorded. Taken together, the findings of this pilot RCT suggested that rESWT combined with physical therapy could be effective in relieving pain and improving function in muscle-related TMD patients.
Study on Frost Resistance of the Carbon-Fiber-Reinforced Concrete
Authors: Kan Wenguang , Yang Zailin , Yu Liangliang
Published: April 2022

Frost resistance is a very important durability criterion of concrete in the cold environment. To improve the frost resistance of concrete, carbon fiber was added into the concrete. Repeated soaking in water will accelerate the freeze-thaw damage of concrete, resulting in mass loss and the compressive strength decrease of the concrete. Thus, a recurrent freeze-thaw experiment, in which specimens of carbon-fiber-reinforced concrete were frozen for 4 h and then thawed in the warm water for 4h, was carried out to estimate the relationship of the addition of carbon fiber and frost resistance. The results show that adding the carbon fiber into concrete could reduce the mass loss of the concrete during the freeze-thaw experiment. And when the carbon fiber content is more than 0.50 wt.‰, the increase in the carbon fiber content improved the compressive strength of the concrete significantly. The frost-resistance of the plain concrete is 100 freeze–thaw cycles, after which the compressive strength losses were 21.2% and 9.0%, respectively. When the optimal adding amount of carbon is 1.5 wt.%, the frost-resistance of the concrete is 250 cycles. It indicates that the carbon-fiber-reinforced concrete is suitable for buildings in cold and moist conditions.
A New Maximum Power Point Tracking Framework for Photovoltaic Energy Systems Based on Remora Optimization Algorithm in Partial Shading Conditions
Authors: Alanazi Abdulaziz , Alanazi Mohana , Arabi Saber , Sarker Shiplu
Published: April 2022

In this paper, a new maximum power point tracking (MPPT) framework for photovoltaic (PV) systems is presented based on the remora optimization algorithm (ROA) subjected to standard and partial shading conditions. The studied system includes a PV array, a DC/DC converter, and a load and MPPT control system. The control variable is the voltage, and the optimization variable is the converter duty cycle, which is optimally determined using the ROA that is inspired based on the parasitic behavior of remora for achieving the maximum power of the PV system. In this study, the ability of the ROA is compared with manta ray foraging optimization (MRFO) and particle swarm optimization (PSO) methods for the MPPT solving of different shading patterns in view of extracted power, efficiency, and tracking rate. The results show that the ROA is a competitive method with higher efficiency in maximum power tracking and convergence accuracy than the MRFO and PSO for the MPPT solving of different patterns with higher exploration power. Moreover, an examination of the two partial shading patterns also showed that the power extracted using the ROA is higher than the MRFO and PSO while also reaching the global power value more quickly. The ROA achieved a tracking efficiency of 99.97% in a partial shading condition, with faster tracking in comparison with the MRFO and PSO methods. Therefore, the ROA is a high-speed tracking optimization method for enhancing the PV system’s efficiency in standard and especially in shading conditions.
Spatiotemporal Variation and Circulation Characteristics of Extreme Maximum Temperature Events in East China (1961–2020)
Authors: Hu Jufang , Zhan Mingjin , Zhan Longfei , Xin Jiajie
Published: April 2022

This study analyzed the spatiotemporal variation characteristics of extreme maximum temperature events (EMTEs) in East China in the last 60 years and investigated the relationship between EMTEs and atmospheric circulation. The arithmetic mean, linear trend, and the Mann–Kendall test were applied to daily maximum temperature (DMT) data (1961–2020) from 345 meteorological observation stations with complete observation records in East China to compile four characteristic indexes of EMTEs: intensity, consecutive days, first days, and last days. The analysis of these indexes revealed the following: (1) The annual number of days with a DMT ≥ 35 °C increased at the rate of 1.45 d/decade (p ≤ 0.05); the mutation occurred in 2009 with a growth rate before and after the mutation of 0.4 and 2.8 d/10a, respectively. Most of the region showed an increasing trend, with the most significant increase to the east of the Yangtze River Delta, in coastal areas of Zhejiang and Fujian, and south of Jiangxi. (2) The EMTE intensity rose at the rate of 0.15 °C/decade (p ≤ 0.05). Most areas showed a significant upward trend, and the historical extreme values of EMTEs mostly appeared in the 21st century. (3) The annual mean growth rate of consecutive EMTE days was 0.24 d/10a, which increased significantly after 2003. In comparison with 1961–2002, consecutive EMTE days increased by 35% during 2003–2020. The rate of increase was significant (p ≤ 0.05) for most areas east of the Yangtze River Delta, coastal areas of Zhejiang and Fujian, and areas south of Jiangxi. The mean mutation time was 2003, and the growth rate before and after the mutation was 0.4 and 1.4 d/10a, respectively. (4) The mean first EMTE day advanced and the mean last EMTE day became delayed, especially in the 21st century. Over the study period, the mean first EMTE day advanced by 12 days and the mean last EMTE day became delayed by 7 days. (5) The analysis of National Centers for Environmental Prediction/National Center for Atmospheric Research reanalysis data indicated that an increasing number of EMTEs have occurred in East China. The reason is that this region experiences atmospheric subsidence resulting from the intensification and westward extension of the subtropical high coupled with the weakening and northward displacement of the mid-latitude westerly trough.
Construction and Application of Hydrometeorological Comprehensive Drought Index in Weihe River
Authors: Fan Jingjing , Xu Fanfan , Sun Xue , Dong Wei , Ma Xuejiao , Liu Guanpeng , Cheng Yao , Wang Hao
Published: April 2022

In response to the national strategy of ecological protection in the Yellow River Basin, a more comprehensive assessment of the basin drought is made. Based on the meteorological data of 20 meteorological stations and the hydrological data of 5 hydrological stations in Weihe River from 1960 to 2010, the base flow data are obtained by digital filtering method. A new comprehensive drought index (CPBI) about base flow and precipitation is constructed based on Copula function, and the applicability of CPBI is discussed, the drought characteristics of Weihe River Basin are analyzed by using this index. The results show that CPBI can capture both meteorological and hydrological drought events and comprehensively characterize their drought characteristics; CPBI has a downward trend at all scales, and the drought situation is becoming more and more serious. After the identification of run length theory, CPBI can more accurately reflect the severe drought situation of five hydrological stations in Weihe River, and can better provide drought early warning. There is variation in CPBI. The variation on the annual scale is generally concentrated in the 1970s and 1990s, and there is a large gap in the variation on the seasonal scale. CPBI is an effective drought monitoring index in Weihe River, which can provide reference for drought early warning and response of Weihe River.
Monoclonal Antibodies in the Treatment of Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma: Moving beyond Rituximab
Authors: Papageorgiou Sotirios G. , Thomopoulos Thomas P. , Liaskas Athanasios , Vassilakopoulos Theodoros P.
Published: April 2022

Although rituximab has revolutionized the treatment of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), a significant proportion of patients experience refractory disease or relapse early after the end of treatment. The lack of effective treatment options in the relapsed/refractory (R/R) setting had made the prognosis of these patients dismal. The initial enthusiasm for novel anti-CD20 antibodies had been short-lived as they failed to prove their superiority to rituximab. Therefore, research has focused on developing novel agents with a unique mechanism of action. Among them, two antibody-drug conjugates, namely polatuzumab vedotin (PolaV) and loncastuximab tesirine, along with tafasitamab, an anti-CD19 bioengineered antibody, have been approved for the treatment of R/R DLBCL. Whereas PolaV has been FDA and EMA approved, EMA has not approved loncastuximab tesirine and tafasitamab yet. Results from randomized trials, as well as real-life data for PolaV have been promising. Novel agents as bispecific antibodies bridging CD3 on T-cells to CD20 have shown very promising results in clinical trials and are expected to gain approval for treatment of R/R DLBCL soon. As the therapeutic armamentarium against DLBCL is expanding, an improvement in survival of patients with R/R and higher cure rates might soon become evident.
Performance of the Generalized-α (G-α) Algorithm for Discontinuous Dynamics by the Numerical Manifold Method
Authors: Qu Xiaolei , Zhang Yunkai , Qi Chengzhi
Published: April 2022

Performance of the generalized-α (G-α) time integration scheme using the numerical manifold method was examined for the continuous and discontinuous rock dynamic problems in the present paper. Influence of the generalized-α time integration scheme on the numerical stability and accuracy were studied using the dynamic equation of motion, in which various parameters such as control parameters and kinetic damping were compared by the amplification matrix A. Furthermore, convergence productiveness of the open–close iterations for the generalized-α time integration with the case of contact was also investigated. The validations of the generalized-α algorithm were conducted by a transient response analysis of an elastic strip subjected to harmonic function loading, contact analysis of layered rock deflection, and mechanical behavior of dynamical tunneling of jointed rock masses, respectively. It can be concluded from the numerical results that the proposed generalized-α scheme used in the present study has superior qualities compared to the original algorithm in solving rock dynamic problems involving more nonlinear contacts using the numerical manifold method.
Highly Efficient and Stable Eu3+-Doped CsPbBr3/Cs4PbBr6 Perovskites for White Light-Emitting Diodes
Authors: Wang Song , Xu Yan , Chen Renjie , Zhu Mengmeng , Wang Muyi , Cao Mengmeng , Liu Yunpeng , Ding Haojie , Zhang Shulan , Bai Jueyao , Ren Jun , Xuan Tongtong , Li Huili
Published: April 2022

All-inorganic halide perovskite nanomaterials have a high application potential in the field of display and lighting because of unique photoelectric properties. However, these materials suffer from problems related to poor water and thermal stabilities. In this study, green Eu3+-doped CsPbBr3/Cs4PbBr6 perovskite composites that were synthesized by a saturated recrystallization method at room temperature showed an enhanced photoluminescence quantum yield of 87% and superior water and thermal stabilities to that of undoped perovskites. Finally, green Eu3+-doped CsPbBr3/Cs4PbBr6 perovskite composites were fabricated into white light-emitting diodes (WLEDs) with a wide color gamut (124% of the National Television System Committee standard) and a high efficiency of 43.06 lm/W.
Implications of Myocardial Bridge on Coronary Atherosclerosis and Survival
Authors: Darabont Roxana Oana , Vișoiu Ionela Simona , Magda Ștefania Lucia , Stoicescu Claudiu , Vintilă Vlad Damian , Udroiu Cristian , Vinereanu Dragoș
Published: April 2022

Background: In this study, we aimed to describe the impact of MBs on atherosclerosis and survival, in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). Methods: We retrospectively studied 1920 consecutive patients who underwent conventional coronary angiography for suspected CAD. Atherosclerotic load (AL), defined as the sum of degrees of stenosis, and general atherosclerotic load (GAL), representing the sum of AL, were compared between patients with MB and a control group without MB; patients in these groups were similar in age and sex. We assessed survival at 10 years after the last enrolled patient. Results: Prevalence of MB was 3.96%, predominantly in the mid-segment of left anterior descendent artery (LAD). In the presence of MB, GAL was lower (158.1 ± 93.7 vs. 205.3 ± 117.9, p = 0.004) with a lesser AL in the proximal (30.3 ± 39.9 vs. 42.9 ± 41.1, p = 0.038) and mid-segments (8.1 ± 20.0 vs. 25.3 ± 35.9, p < 0.001) of LAD. Based on a Multinominal Logistic Regression, we found that the presence of MB on LAD (regardless of its location on this artery) is a protective factor against atherosclerotic lesions, decreasing the probability of significant stenosis, especially of those ≥70%, on the entire artery (B −1.539, OR 4660; 95% CI = 1.873–11.595, p = 0.001) and on each of its segments as well: proximal LAD (B −1.275, OR 0.280; 95% CI = 0.015–5.073; p = 0.038), mid-LAD (B −1.879, OR 6.545; 95% CI = 1.492–28.712; p = 0.013) and distal LAD (B −0.900, OR 2.459, 95% CI = 2.459–2.459, p = 0.032). However, 10-year survival was similar between groups (76.70% vs. 74.30%, p = 0.740). Conclusion: The presence of MB on LAD proved to be a protective factor against atherosclerosis for the entire artery and for each of its segments, but it does not influence long-term survival in patients with CAD.
Leaf and Branch Hydraulic Plasticity of Two Light-Demanding Broadleaved Tree Species Differing in Water-Use Strategy
Authors: Õunapuu-Pikas Eele , Venisse Jean-Stéphane , Label Philippe , Sellin Arne
Published: April 2022

Global climate change creates new environmental scenarios and selective pressures; thus, a better understanding of the plasticity of plant functional traits is needed to predict how plant species will respond to shifts in climate. Among the important functional traits for plants are their hydraulic properties which ultimately determine their photosynthetic capacity, growth rate, and survival in a changing environment. In this study, the light sensitivity of leaf (KL) and branch hydraulic conductance (KB) to fast changes in irradiance, and hydraulic plasticity (PIh) was studied in two broadleaved tree species differing in water-use strategy—silver birch (Betula pendula) and hybrid aspen (Populus × wettsteinii). The KL increased by a factor of 3.5 and 1.5 from minimal values recorded in darkness to maximal values in high light conditions for birch and aspen, respectively, indicating a significantly higher PIh for birch (0.72) than for aspen leaves (0.35). KB increased 1.5-fold from dark to light conditions for both species. The high light sensitivity of KL and KB provides a regulatory mechanism to maintain a balance between transpirational demand and hydraulic supply. The plasticity of these traits increases the ability of plants to cope with a rapidly changing environment and to adapt to global climate change.
Integrated Analysis of the ceRNA Network and M-7474 Function in Testosterone-Mediated Fat Deposition in Pigs
Authors: Liu Ximing , Bai Ying , Cui Ran , He Shuaihan , Ling Yao , Wu Changxin , Fang Meiying
Published: April 2022

Castration can significantly enhance fat deposition in pigs, and the molecular mechanism of fat deposition caused by castration and its influence on fat deposition in different parts of pigs remain unclear. RNA-seq was performed on adipose tissue from different parts of castrated and intact Yorkshire pigs. Different ceRNA networks were constructed for different fat parts. GO and KEGG pathway annotations suggested that testosterone elevates cell migration and affects differentiation and apoptosis in back fat, while it predisposes animals to glycolipid metabolism disorders and increases the expression of inflammatory cytokines in abdominal fat. The interaction between M-7474, novel_miR_243 and SGK1 was verified by dual fluorescence experiments. This ceRNA relationship has also been demonstrated in porcine preadipocytes. Overexpression of M-7474 significantly inhibited the differentiation of preadipocytes compared to the control group. When 100 nM testosterone was added during preadipocyte differentiation, the expression of M-7474 was increased, and preadipocyte differentiation was significantly inhibited. Testosterone can affect preadipocyte differentiation by upregulating the expression of M-7474, sponging novel-miR-243, and regulating the expression of genes such as SGK1. At the same time, HSD11B1 and SLC2A4 may also be regulated by the corresponding lncRNA and miRNA, which ultimately affects glucose uptake by adipocytes and leads to obesity.
Essential Oils from Leaves of Juniperus thurifera L., Exhibiting Antioxidant, Antifungal and Antibacterial Activities against Antibiotic-Resistant Microbes
Authors: Lafraxo Soufyane , El Barnossi Azeddin , El Moussaoui Abdelfattah , Bourhia Mohammed , Salamatullah Ahmad Mohammad , Alzahrani Abdulhakeem , Ait Akka Aziz , Choubbane Abderahmane , Akhazzane Mohamed , Aboul-Soud Mourad A. M. , Giesy John P. , Bari Amina
Published: April 2022

The antioxidant, antibacterial and antifungal properties of essential oils (EOs) of Juniperus thurifera L., a plant utilized in traditional, herbal medicine, were investigated. The EOs were extracted by use of a Clevenger apparatus and phytochemicals identified by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC/MS/MS). The antioxidant capacity of EOs of J. thurifera was determined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazil (DPPH), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP). Antimicrobial activity of EOs of J. thurifera was determined against four fungal strains, Candida albicans; ATCC 10231, Aspergillus niger; MTCC 282, Aspergillus flavus; MTCC 9606 and Fusarium oxysporum; MTCC 9913 and four bacterial strains, Staphylococcus aureus; ATCC 6633, Escherichia coli; K12, Bacillus subtilis; DSM 6333, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa; CIP A22, by use of the disk diffusion method, and microdilution method used to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). EOs of J. thurifera consisted of 31 compounds and were dominated by α-thujene (25%), elemol (12%) and muurolol (12%). Antioxidant activity recorded an IC50 of 24 ± 0.71 µg/mL (DPPF), EC50 of 0.19 ± 0.01 mg/mL (FRAP), and 9.3 × 102 ± 38 mg EAA/g (TAC). The EOs of J. thurifera exhibited significant antibacterial activity against all bacterial strains under investigation, especially P. aeruginosa; CIP A22 with an inhibition diameter of 28 ± 1.5 mm and MIC of 4.8 × 10−2 ± 0. 001 µg/mL. EOs of J. thurifera also exhibited significant antifungal activity against C. albicans; ATCC 10231 and F. oxysporum; MTCC 9913 with an activity of 21 ± 2.1 mm, 32 ± 2.3%, and MIC of 9.5 × 10−2 ± 0.001 Bioactive molecules found in EOs of J. thurifera could be used as an alternative solution to antibiotics available on the market to combat microbial resistance.
Impact of Cereal Production Displacement from Urban Expansion on Ecosystem Service Values in China: Based on Three Cropland Supplement Strategies
Authors: Sheng Siyu , Yang Bohan , Kuang Bing
Published: April 2022

The acceleration of global urban expansion constantly occupies high-quality cropland and affects regional food security. The implementation of cropland protection policies has alleviated the pressure of cropland loss worldwide, and thus keeping a dynamic balance of cereal production. Such a displacement of cereal production from the lost cropland to the supplemented cropland has resulted in the massive losses of natural habitats (such as forests, grasslands, and wetlands) as well as ecosystem service values. However, the impact of cereal production displacement caused by different cropland supplement strategies has not been concerned. Therefore, taking China (mainland) as a case, this study used the LANDSCAPE model to simulate cereal production displacement caused by urban expansion and cropland supplement between 2020 and 2040, based on three scales of the Chinese administration system (i.e., the national level, the provincial level, and the municipal level). The natural habitat loss and corresponding ecosystem service value (ESV) loss were assessed. The results show that the national-scale cereal displacement will lead to a large reclamation of cropland in North China, causing the most natural habitat loss (5090 km2), and the least ESV loss (46.53 billion yuan). Cereal production displacement at the provincial and municipal scales will lead to fewer natural habitat losses (4696 km2 and 4954 km2, respectively), but more ESV losses (54.16 billion yuan and 54.02 billion yuan, respectively). Based on the national food security and ecological conservation in China, this study discussed the reasons for the ecological effects of cereal production displacement, direct and indirect natural habitat loss of urban expansion, and cropland protection policies in China. We suggest that China’s cropland protection policy should emphasize avoiding large-scale cropland displacement and occupation of natural habitat with high ESV for cropland supplement.
COVID-19 and One-Carbon Metabolism
Authors: Perła-Kaján Joanna , Jakubowski Hieronim
Published: April 2022

Dysregulation of one-carbon metabolism affects a wide range of biological processes and is associated with a number of diseases, including cardiovascular disease, dementia, neural tube defects, and cancer. Accumulating evidence suggests that one-carbon metabolism plays an important role in COVID-19. The symptoms of long COVID-19 are similar to those presented by subjects suffering from vitamin B12 deficiency (pernicious anemia). The metabolism of a cell infected by the SARS-CoV-2 virus is reshaped to fulfill the need for massive viral RNA synthesis, which requires de novo purine biosynthesis involving folate and one-carbon metabolism. Many aspects of host sulfur amino acid metabolism, particularly glutathione metabolism underlying antioxidant defenses, are also taken over by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The purpose of this review is to summarize recent findings related to one-carbon metabolism and sulfur metabolites in COVID-19 and discuss how they inform strategies to combat the disease.
Physiological and Molecular Responses of Zoysia japonica to Rust Infection
Authors: Zhang Di , Tang Jun , Wei Kai , Jia Shangang , Jiang Yiwei , Cai Hongwei , Mao Peisheng , Li Manli
Published: April 2022

Zoysiagrass (Zoysia japonica) is a popular turfgrass species and is widely used for sport turf and urban landscape. Zoysiagrass is often infected by Puccinia zoysiae, which causes a loss in turf quality. The physiological and molecular mechanisms of rust resistance are poorly understood in this species. In this study, the rust-resistant and susceptible lines of zoysiagrass were inoculated with P. zoysiae, and alterations of leaf cell structure, physiological indicators and transcriptomic response were investigated at the various stages of inoculation. After inoculation, the cell membranes, nucleus, mitochondria, and chloroplast were all impaired, followed by abnormal physiological metabolism. The damage occurred earlier and more severely in the susceptible line. Changes in electrolyte leakage and chlorophyll content varied with the genotype and the inoculation stages. The transcriptome analysis showed that plant hormones, MAPK signal transduction pathway, photosynthesis and energy generation pathways were significantly enriched in the early response, in both the resistant and susceptible lines. The results provided insights into the physiological and molecular mechanisms of rust disease resistance and would benefit the breeding of rust-resistant varieties in zoysiagrass and related turfgrass species.
Two New Species of Sidera (Hymenochaetales, Basidiomycota) from Southwest China
Authors: Liu Zhan-Bo , Zhou Meng , Wu Fang , Yu Jian
Published: April 2022

Two new wood-inhabiting fungi, Sidera salmonea sp. Nov. and S. tibetica sp. Nov. in the order Hymenochaetales from southwest China, are described and illustrated based on molecular and morphological evidence. They were found on gymnosperm wood that is rotten and charred. The characteristics of S. salmonea include annual, resupinate basidioma, salmon pores with distinctly white margins, angular pores (7–9 per mm), a dimitic hyphal system, and lunate basidiospores that are 3–3.5 × 0.9–1.1 μm. The characteristics of S. tibetica include annual, resupinate basidioma with a white to cream fresh pore surface that becomes cream to honey-yellow and shiny when dry, round pores (7–8 per mm), a dimitic hyphal system, and lunate basidiospores that measure 2.9–3.1 × 1–1.1 μm. A phylogenetic analysis based on the combined 2-locus dataset (5.8S + nuclear large subunit RNA (nLSU)) shows that the two species are members of the genus Sidera, and they are morphologically compared with related species, respectively. This paper provides a key to the identification of 16 accepted species of Sidera that are found throughout the world.
Complicated Structure Change during Capillary Extrusion of Binary Blends of Polycarbonate and Poly(methyl methacrylate)
Authors: Yamaguchi Masayuki , Nakamura Kodai , Kimura Takeyoshi , Moonprasith Nantina , Kida Takumitsu , Tsubouchi Kyoko , Narita Takaaki , Hiraoka Tatsuhiro
Published: April 2022

The effects of pressure and shear rate on the miscibility of binary blends comprising bisphenol-A polycarbonate (PC) and low molecular weight poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) were investigated using a capillary rheometer. Both pressure and shear rate affected the miscibility. The examination of an extruded strand of the blend provided information about the cause of the phase change. Under high pressure, pressure-induced demixing occurred at temperatures below the lower critical solution temperature (LCST) of the blend. Consequently, the extruded strand became opaque throughout. During shear-induced mixing/demixing, a part of the strand became opaque because of the distribution of the shear rate in the strand. For example, during shear-induced demixing, only the exterior of the strand, i.e., the high shear rate region, became opaque. Above the LCST, shear-induced mixing occurred, and only the center region of the strand became opaque.
Enhancement of the Transmission Performance of Piezoelectric Micromachined Ultrasound Transducers by Vibration Mode Optimization
Authors: Li Penglu , Fan Zheng , Duan Xiaoya , Cui Danfeng , Zang Junbin , Zhang Zengxing , Xue Chenyang
Published: April 2022

Ultrasound is widely used in industry and the agricultural, biomedical, military, and other fields. As key components in ultrasonic applications, the characteristic parameters of ultrasonic transducers fundamentally determine the performance of ultrasonic systems. High-frequency ultrasonic transducers are small in size and require high precision, which puts forward higher requirements for sensor design, material selection, and processing methods. In this paper, a three-dimensional model of a high-frequency piezoelectric micromachined ultrasonic transducer (PMUT) is established based on the finite element method (FEM). This 3D model consists of a substrate, a silicon device layer, and a molybdenum-aluminum nitride-molybdenum (Mo-AlN-Mo) sandwich piezoelectric layer. The effect of the shape of the transducer’s vibrating membrane on the transmission performance was studied. Through a discussion of the parametric scanning of the key dimensions of the diaphragms of the three structures, it was concluded that the fundamental resonance frequency of the hexagonal diaphragm was higher than that of the circle and the square under the same size. Compared with the circular diaphragm, the sensitivity of the square diaphragm increased by 8.5%, and the sensitivity of the hexagonal diaphragm increased by 10.7%. The maximum emission sound-pressure level of the hexagonal diaphragm was 6.6 times higher than that of the circular diaphragm. The finite element results show that the hexagonal diaphragm design has great advantages for improving the transmission performance of the high-frequency PMUT.
Application of MnO2 Nanorod–Ionic Liquid Modified Carbon Paste Electrode for the Voltammetric Determination of Sulfanilamide
Authors: Beitollahi Hadi , Tajik Somayeh , Di Bartolomeo Antonio
Published: April 2022

The current work introduced a convenient single-phase hydrothermal protocol to fabricate MnO2 nanorods (MnO2 NRs). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) were used to determine the characteristics of MnO2 NR. Then, ionic liquid (IL) and MnO2 NRs were utilized to modify a carbon paste electrode (CPE) surface (MnO2NR-IL/CPE) to voltammetrically sense the sulfanilamide (SAA). An enhanced voltammetric sensitivity was found for the as-developed modified electrode toward SAA when compared with a bare electrode. The optimization experiments were designed to achieve the best analytical behavior of the SAA sensor. Differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) in the optimized circumstances portrayed a linear dependence on various SAA levels (between 0.07 and 100.0 μM), possessing a narrow detection limit (0.01 μM). The ability of the modified electrode to be used in sensor applications was verified in the determination of SAA present in the actual urine and water specimens, with impressive recovery outcomes.