bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microbial necromass response to soil warming: A meta-analysis
Authors: Mitchell Megan F. , MacLean Meghan Graham , DeAngelis Kristen M.
Published: September 2022

Microbial-derived soil organic matter (SOM), or necromass, is an important source of SOM and is sensitive to climate warming. Soil classification systems consider soil physicochemical properties that influence SOM, hinting at the potential utility of incorporating classification systems in soil carbon (C) projections. Currently, there is no consensus on climate warming effects on necromass and if these responses vary across reference soil groups. To estimate the vulnerability of necromass to climate warming, we performed a meta-analysis of publications examining in situ experimental soil warming effects on microbial necromass via amino sugar analysis. We built generalized linear models (GLM) to explore if soil groups and warming methodologies can be used to predict necromass stocks. Our results showed that warming effect sizes on necromass were not uniform across reference soil groups. Specifically, warming effect sizes were generally positive in permafrost soils but negative in calcic soils. However, warming did not significantly change average necromass. Our GLMs detected significant differences in necromass across soil groups with similar texture and clay percentage. Thus, we advocate for further research to define what predictors of necromass are captured in soil group but not in soil texture. We also show warming methodology is a significant predictor of necromass, depending on the necromass biomarker. Future research efforts should uncover the mechanistic reason behind how passive versus active warming methodology influences necromass responses. Our study highlights the need for more in situ soil warming experiments measuring microbial necromass as this will improve predictions of SOM feedback under future climate scenarios.
A scoping review on developmental activities of girls' and women's sports
Authors: Peters Carrie M. , Hendry David T. , Hodges Nicola J.
Published: September 2022

We provide a scoping review of research on athlete development in girls' and women's sports. Our emphasis is on pathways to expertise in the context of deliberate practice theory and associated models, such as the Developmental Model of Sport Participation (DMSP). Despite rationale for sex and gender differences in sport development, there are relatively few studies where the developmental pathways of female elite athletes have been evaluated. We sought to map the scope of the literature on this population over the last 30 years, focusing on measures of practice types and amounts. Following an extensive search of the literature, 32 studies were identified that included all female participants or presented sex/gender disaggregated data. Retrospective methods were commonly used to quantify practice, play and specialization. National-level athletes were the most represented, although there was considerable heterogeneity in sport and expertise-level, making general or comparative judgements challenging. We identified some groups that had accumulated high volumes of practice at a young age, particularly in soccer and gymnastics. Across sports and studies, early majority hours of engagement in the primary sport was the norm. Athletes deviated from predictions in the specialization pathway detailed in the DMSP, by continuing to participate in other sports throughout childhood and adolescence. In addition to highlighting the relative paucity of data pertaining to athlete development pathways in female athletes, we show that the data from these groups deviate from predictions detailed in current models of athlete development.
One-and-a-half nostril versus binostril endoscopic transsphenoidal approach to the pituitary adenomas: A prospective randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zhu Junhao , Wen Guodao , Tang Chao , Cong Zixiang , Cai Xiangming , Yang Jin , Ma Chiyuan
Published: September 2022

Background

Binostril endoscopic transsphenoidal approach (BETA) is the most used approach for sellar lesions nowadays, while its damage to the nasal structures may cause nasal discomfort and affect nasal functions including respiration and olfaction. With the purpose to improve the post-operative sinonasal quality of life (QoL), we introduced the one-and-a-half nostril endoscopic transsphenoidal approach (OETA) in 2016 which preserved more natural structures and registered a prospective randomized controlled trial (ChiCTR-IOR-16008222) to compare the two approaches regarding the surgical outcomes and complications.

Methods

Sixty patients with pituitary adenomas were recruited and randomly assigned to the OETA group and the BETA group between April 2016 and May 2017 in Jinling Hospital. The tumor resection rate, endocrinal and visual outcomes, and surgical complications between the OETA and BETA groups were analyzed. Besides, the questionnaire Anterior Skull Base Nasal Inventory-12 (ASK Nasal-12) was used to evaluate patients’ sinonasal QoL at seven time points (pre-operative; 2-weeks, 1-month, 3-months, 6-months, 12-months, and long-term post-operatively). The Sniffin’ Sticks were used to assess patients’ olfactory function objectively in a long term. Each patient was followed for at least 12 months post-operatively.

Results

There was no significant difference in tumor resection rate, hormonal and visual outcomes, and surgical complications between the two groups. Regarding the ASK Nasal-12, patients in the OETA group complained less about dried nasal material at 2 weeks after surgery (P = 0.017). One month after surgery, the OETA group had better olfaction function (P = 0.019) compared with the BETA group. However, there was no significant difference in early and long-term postoperative sinonasal QoL between the two approaches according to the entire ASK Nasal-12 metric. The results of the Sniffin’ Sticks showed that the two groups had a similar olfactory performance at long-time follow-up.

Conclusion

In this single tertiary center trial, the results showed that the OETA achieved the same surgical outcomes and post-operative sinonasal QoL as the BETA.

Clinical Trial Registration

http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=13852, identifier: ChiCTR-IOR-16008222
An update on advanced therapies for Parkinson's disease: From gene therapy to neuromodulation
Authors: Serva Stephanie N. , Bernstein Jacob , Thompson John A. , Kern Drew S. , Ojemann Steven G.
Published: September 2022

Advanced Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterized by increasingly debilitating impaired movements that include motor fluctuations and dyskinesias. At this stage of the disease, pharmacological management can result in unsatisfactory clinical benefits and increase the occurrence of adverse effects, leading to the consideration of advanced therapies. The scope of this review is to provide an overview of currently available therapies for advanced PD, specifically levodopa–carbidopa intestinal gel, continuous subcutaneous apomorphine infusion, radiofrequency ablation, stereotactic radiosurgery, MRI-guided focused ultrasound, and deep brain stimulation. Therapies in clinical trials are also discussed, including novel formulations of subcutaneous carbidopa/levodopa, gene-implantation therapies, and cell-based therapies. This review focuses on the clinical outcomes and adverse effects of the various therapies and also considers patient-specific characteristics that may influence treatment choice. This review can equip providers with updated information on advanced therapies in PD to better counsel patients on the available options.
Application of Salvage Autologous Blood Transfusion for treating Massive Hemorrhage during Ectopic Pregnancy
Authors: Li Junying , Jin Hequn , Hu Zhen
Published: September 2022

Purpose

To explore the application value of salvage autologous blood transfusion for massive hemorrhage occurring during ectopic pregnancy.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed on the basis of the clinical data of patients in our hospital for the period January 2019 to December 2021. These patients were confirmed to have suffered massive hemorrhage from an ectopic pregnancy during surgery and were treated with blood transfusion. The patients were divided according to their blood transfusion method into three groups: an autologous group (n = 46) treated with salvage autologous blood transfusion, a mixed group (n = 28) treated with salvage autologous + allogeneic blood transfusion, and an allogeneic group (n = 41) treated with allogeneic blood transfusion. The volume of intra-abdominal bleeding, the volume of autologous and allogeneic blood transfusion, postoperative fever and blood transfusion reaction, hemodynamic indices [systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), oxygen saturation (SpO2), and heart rate (HR)] before and after blood transfusion; 24-h postoperative blood routine [hematocrit (HCT), hemoglobin (Hb), platelets (PLT), red blood cells (RBCs)], and electrolyte indices (Na+, K+, Cl−) were all compared among the three groups.

Results

It was found that intra-abdominal bleeding volume in the autologous and mixed groups was higher than that in the allogeneic group (p < 0.05), and there was no statistical difference between the autologous and the mixed groups (p > 0.05). Autologous blood transfusion volume in the autologous group was higher than that in the mixed group (p < 0.05). Allogeneic blood transfusion volume in the allogeneic group was higher than that in the mixed group (p < 0.05). After blood transfusion treatment, the postoperative fever rates were 4.35%, 10.71%, and 19.51% in the autologous, mixed, and allogeneic groups, respectively, and the blood transfusion reaction rates were 0.00%, 3.57%, and 9.76%, respectively, which were lower in the autologous group than in the allogeneic group (p < 0.05). At 30 min after blood transfusion, SBP, DBP, and SpO2 were higher in all three groups than before blood transfusion (p < 0.05), and HR was lower than before blood transfusion (p < 0.05), but there was no statistically significant difference between the groups at 30 min after blood transfusion (p > 0.05). At the 24- h postoperative period, no statistical difference was found when HCT, Hb, PLT, RBC, Na+, K+, and Cl− were compared among the three groups (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

The use of salvage autologous blood transfusion for treating massive hemorrhage occurring during ectopic pregnancy is a safe and feasible method for rescuing patients with such condition because it can rapidly replenish the patient’s blood volume and save blood resources without causing postoperative hemodynamic, blood routine, and electrolyte abnormalities.
Comparison of short-term efficacy of MIS-TLIF and Endo-LIF in the treatment of single-segment degenerative lumbar diseases
Authors: Song Zhiwei , Zhu Weihua , Zheng Junwen , Wu Gang , Li Tianqi , Huang Aibing , Bian Jian , Chen Chunmao , Li Haijun
Published: September 2022

Background

A prospective controlled study was conducted to compare the short-term clinical results and postoperative complications of minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar decompression and fusion (minimally invasive surgery transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion, MIS-TLIF) and percutaneous endoscope-assisted transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (endoscopic lumbar interbody fusion, Endo-LIF) in the treatment of single-segment degenerative lumbar diseases, to provide some scientific guidance for clinicians to select surgical treatment for patients with lumbar degeneration.

Methods

From October 2020 to October 2021, a total of 62 patients were enrolled, with 31 patients in the MIS-TLIF group and 31 patients in the Endo-LIF group. All patients were followed up for 6 months. The following information from the two groups of patients was recorded: (1) operation time, radiation exposure time, intraoperative blood loss, bed rest time, and hospital stay; (2) ODI score (The Oswestry Disability Index), low back pain VAS score (Visual Analogue Scale), and lumbar vertebra JOA score (Japanese Orthopaedic Association Scores) 1 day before the operation; 1, 3, 6 days after operation; and 1, 3 and 6 months after operation. (3) X-ray evaluations of lumbar fusion at the last follow-up.

Results

There were significant differences in operation time, intraoperative fluoroscopy time, and hospitalization cost between the two groups. The MIS-TLIF group was significantly better than the Endo-LIF group, and the intraoperative bleeding volume of the Endo-LIF group was significantly better than that of the MIS-TLIF group, but there was no significant difference in postoperative bed rest time and postoperative hospital stay. There was no significant difference in the scores of ODI, VAS, and JOA between the two groups before and after the operation. At the last follow-up, the fusion rate was 100% in the MIS-TLIF group and 100% in the Endo-LIF group.

Conclusions

There was no significant difference in short-term clinical efficacy and safety between Endo-LIF and MIS-TLIF in the treatment of single-segment degenerative lumbar diseases, but MIS-TLIF was significantly better than Endo-LIF in terms of the operation time, hospitalization cost, and fluoroscopy time, and Endo-LIF was significantly better than MIS-TLIF in terms of intraoperative blood loss.
Application of multimodal identification technology in the innovative management operation department
Authors: Zhu Yan , Sun Xiaojiao , Huang Yuemei , Song Xiaochong , Liu Li , Feng Laide , Zhang Yujian
Published: September 2022

Background

The optimization of surgical procedures and the management of surgical quality and safety have become the focus of attention of hospital managers. The application of multimodal identification technology in the innovative management mode of hospital operating department has made remarkable progress.

Methods

To investigate the effect of the upgraded multimodal identification technology on the innovative management of the operating department, 2,280 cases of laparoscopic surgery using traditional surgical management procedures from January to December 2019 before the management upgrade were set as the control group, and 2,350 laparoscopic surgeries with the upgraded multimodal identification management process from January to December 2020 were selected as the experimental group. The operating efficiency, material management efficiency, and patient experience and satisfaction of the two groups were investigated and compared.

Results

Compared with traditional procedures, the upgraded multimodal surgical management system significantly improves the efficiency of laparoscopic surgery and reduces surgical consumption and costs. In addition, the multimodal surgical information identification system significantly improves the surgical experience for patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery.

Conclusion

Application of multimodal identification technology improves the innovative management of operation department compared with traditional surgery management procedure.
Peripheral blood eosinophil and classification of residual hematoma help predict the recurrence of chronic subdural hematoma after initial surgery
Authors: Chen Sichao , Shao Linqian , Ma Li
Published: September 2022

Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is a common type of intracranial hemorrhage in neurosurgical practice, whose incidence has increased markedly in recent years. However, CSDH still troubles clinicians with a high postoperative recurrence rate. The presence of eosinophils has been confirmed in some CSDH surgical specimens. Furthermore, postoperative residual hematoma has not been classified, and its association with the recurrence of CSDH remains unknown. The present study aimed to test the hypothesis that the peripheral blood eosinophils and the classification of postoperative residual hematoma are significant for the prediction of CSDH recurrence after burr-hole surgery. A retrospective review of 258 CSDH patients who received burr-hole surgery was performed. A complete blood picture with differential count was taken before surgery. Clinical, laboratory, and radiographic factors predicting CSDH recurrence were identified in univariable and multivariable analyses. Univariable analysis showed that the percentage of eosinophils, peripheral blood eosinophil count <0.15 × 109/L, gradation and separated types, postoperative volume of the residual cavity ≥70 ml, residual air volume ≥28 ml, residual hematoma volume ≥55 ml, residual hematoma width ≥1.4 cm, postoperative midline shift ≥5.6 mm, postoperative brain re-expansion rate <41%, postoperative low-density type, and postoperative high-density type correlated with the recurrence of CSDH. Multivariable analysis, however, showed that peripheral blood eosinophil count <0.15 × 109/L, gradation and separated types, preoperative midline shift ≥9.5 mm, postoperative brain re-expansion rate <41%, postoperative low-density type, and postoperative high-density type are independent predictors for the recurrence of CSDH. We expect that peripheral blood eosinophils and the classification of postoperative residual hematoma may facilitate our understanding of the recurrence of CSDH after initial surgery.
Prognostic factors for trigeminocardiac reflex during cerebrovascular intervention operation
Authors: Sun Zhaochu , Bhuiyan Piplu , Lu Hua , Qian Yanning , Xiao Hang
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Trigeminocardiac reflex (TCR) is a brainstem reflexive response of hemodynamic instability during surgery. Identification of risk factors relevant to TCR during cerebrovascular intervention procedures is helpful to efficiently prevent and treat its occurrence. The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the risk factors for Onyx embolization during cerebrovascular intervention operation so as to optimize perioperative management strategies on TCR.

Methods

We performed a retrospective study on the patients with Onyx embolization under general anaesthesia over 6-years period from 2013 to 2018. 354 patients were finally eligible for inclusion, and then divided into TCR group (group T) and control group (group N). Patient characteristics, clinical diagnosis, comorbidities, lesion sites, hemodynamics changes, and complications were compared between two groups. Several multivariable regression models were applied to analyze the risk factors associated with TCR.

Results

TCR occurred in 59 patients (16.7%) among 354 patients. There was no significant difference in patient characteristics between two groups (P > 0.05). During DMSO/Onyx injection, HR and MAP were much lower in group T than group N (P < 0.01). Notably, univariable analysis revealed that the patients with dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF) and middle meningeal artery being affected were associated with a higher incidence of TCR (P < 0.01). Furthermore, multivariable analysis showed that there was a close link of TCR with DAVF [OR = 4.12; 95% CI (1.83–10.65)] and middle meningeal artery embolization [OR = 3.90; 95% CI (1.58–9.63)]. Further stratified analysis of patients with TCR found that patients with middle meningeal artery embolization were more likely to experience hypotension during TCR episode (P < 0.05). Finally, more incidence of postoperative adverse events was observed when TCR episode (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

We found that DAVF and middle meningeal artery embolization were independent risk factors for TCR episodes during Onyx endovascular embolization, highly likely leading to intraoperative hemodynamics fluctuations and postoperative adverse events.
The use of three-dimensional endoscope in transnasal skull base surgery: A single-center experience from China
Authors: Xin Guo , Liu Yajing , Xiong Yicheng , Xie Shenhao , Luo Hai , Xiao Liming , Wu Xiao , Hong Tao , Tang Bin
Published: September 2022

Objective

The development of skull base surgery in the past decade has been influenced by advances in visualization techniques; recently, due to such improvements, 3D endoscopes have been widely used. Herein, we address its effect for transnasal endoscopic skull base surgery.

Methods

A total of 63 patients who under endoscopic endonasal surgery (EES) with 3-D endoscope were retrospectively reviewed, including pituitary adenomas, craniopharyngiomas, meningiomas, Rathke’s cleft cysts, and chordomas. According to different lesions, transsellar approach (24 cases), transsphenoidal–transtuberculum approach (14 cases), transclival approach (6 cases), and transpterygoid approach (19 cases) were selected.

Results

Total removal of tumors was achieved in 56 patients (88.9%) and subtotal removal in 7 cases (11.1%). Complications included diabetes insipidus in seven patients (11.1%), cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage in two patients (3.2%), major vascular injury occurred in one patient (1.6%), cranial nerve injury in nine patients (14.3%), and meningitis in two patients (3.2%). There was no mortality in the series. All patients recovered and were back to normal daily life, and no tumor recurrence or delayed CSF leakage was detected during the follow-up (2–13 months, mean 7.59 months).

Conclusions

Via 3D EES, it improved depth perception and preserved important neurovascular tissue when tumors were removed, which is important for improving the operative prognosis.
Percutaneous endoscopic interlaminar discectomy for L5-S1 calcified lumbar disc herniation: A retrospective study
Authors: Cheng Yuanpei , Zhang Qianru , Li Yongbo , Chen Xipeng , Wu Han
Published: September 2022

Background

Calcified lumbar disc herniation (CLDH) is considered to be a special type of lumbar disc herniation (LDH). Percutaneous endoscopic interlaminar discectomy (PEID), with safety and efficacy, has been proved to be a minimally invasive surgery for LDH. However, there are few studies on PEID in the treatment of CLDH at the L5-S1 level. This study aimed to analyze the clinical efficacy of PEID for L5-S1 CLDH.

Methods

From August 2016 to April 2020, we retrospectively analyzed 28 consecutive patients (17 males and 11 females) with L5-S1 CLDH treated with PEID at our institution. All the patients were monitored for more than 1 year postoperatively. The demographic characteristics, surgical results, and clinical outcomes estimated by the visual analog scale (VAS) for leg pain, the Oswestry disability index (ODI), and the modified MacNab criteria were collected.

Results

All patients successfully underwent PEID. The mean operative time and intraoperative blood loss were 65.36 ± 5.26 min and 13.21 ± 4.35 ml, respectively. The VAS for leg pain and ODI scores improved remarkably from 7.54 ± 0.96 to 1.50 ± 0.51 (P < 0.05) and from 69.29 ± 9.91 to 17.43 ± 3.69 (P < 0.05) a year after operation, respectively. According to the modified MacNab criteria of the last follow-up, the excellent and good rates are 92.86%. Two of the patients had complications, one had nerve root injury and the other had postoperative dysesthesia.

Conclusions

PEID achieved good clinical outcomes in the treatment of L5-S1 CLDH, and it was a safe and effective minimally invasive surgery for L5-S1 CLDH.
Genetic polymorphisms of TRAPPC9 and CD4 genes and their association with milk production and mastitis resistance phenotypic traits in Chinese Holstein
Authors: Khan Muhammad Zahoor , Dari Gerile , Khan Adnan , Yu Ying
Published: September 2022

The present study was designed to evaluate the association of polymorphisms in bovine trafficking protein particle complex subunit 9 (TRAPPC9) and cluster of differentiation 4 (CD4) genes with milk production and mastitis resistance phenotypic traits in a different cattle population. Three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) (SNP1 Position: Chr14:2484891, SNP2 (rs110017379), SNP3 Position: Chr14:2525852) in bovine TRAPPC9 and one SNP (Position: Chr5:104010752) in CD4 were screened through Chinese Cow's SNPs Chip-I (CCSC-I) and genotyped in a population of 312 Chinese Holsteins (156: Mastitis, 156: Healthy). The results were analyzed using the general linear model in SAS 9.4. Our analysis revealed that milk protein percentage, somatic cell count (SCC), somatic cell score (SCS), serum cytokines interleukin 6 (IL-6) and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) were significantly (P < 0.05) associated with at least one or more identified SNPs of TRAPPC9 and CD4 genes. Furthermore, the expression status of SNPs in CD4 and TRAPPC9 genes were verified through RT-qPCR. The expression analysis showed that genotypes GG in SNP3 of TRAPPC9 and TT genotype in SNP4 of CD4 showed higher expression level compared to other genotypes. The GG genotype in SNP2 and TT genotype in SNP3 of TRAPPC9 were associated with higher bovine milk SCC and lower IL6. Altogether, our findings suggested that the SNPs of TRAPPC9 and CD4 genes could be useful genetic markers in selection for milk protein improvement and mastitis resistance phenotypic traits in dairy cattle. The CCSC-I used in current study is proposed to be validate in different and large population of dairy cattle not only in China but also in other countries. Moreover, our analyses recommended that besides SCC and SCS, the association of genetic markers could also be considered with the serum cytokines (IL-6, IFN-γ) while selecting genetically mastitis resistance dairy cattle.
The effect of uterine-derived mesenchymal stromal cells for the treatment of canine atopic dermatitis: A pilot study
Authors: Black Linda , Zacharias Shelly , Hughes Mark , Bautista Rachel , Taechangam Nopmanee , Sand Theodore
Published: September 2022

Canine atopic dermatitis (cAD) is a common allergic skin condition among dogs that may respond to treatment with mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs). The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of allogeneic uterine tissue-derived MSCs (UMSCs) for the reduction and control of clinical signs associated with cAD. At two sites, seven client-owned dogs with cAD received two doses of approximately 3.6 x 107 UMSCs given intravenously over 30 min, on Day 0 and Day 14, with monthly clinical follow-up until Day 90 and optional owner phone interview on Day 180. Primary outcomes were pruritus and skin lesions. Pruritus was measured by the owner-assessed Pruritus Visual Analog Scale (PVAS), with treatment success defined as a 2-point reduction in PVAS score at any timepoint after treatment. Skin lesions were evaluated by two veterinarians according to the Canine Atopic Dermatitis Extent and Severity Index (CADESI-4). The secondary outcome was safety, which was evaluated via physical exam and hematology, including complete blood count (CBC), serum chemistry, and urinalysis (UA). Treatment was generally well tolerated and associated with a significant reduction in PVAS on Day 30 that was maintained through Day 180. On Day 60, five dogs (71%) achieved treatment success (at least 2-point reduction in PVAS), and three dogs (43%) had a PVAS improvement of 4-5 points. Mean CADESI-4 score was significantly improved on Day 14, Day 30, Day 60, and Day 90, with the lowest mean score observed on Day 60. Three dogs exhibited mild and transient adverse events. These findings suggest that IV-administered allogeneic UMSCs reduce and control clinical signs of cAD, with a durable benefit lasting 3–6 months.
Dietary supplementation of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) with β-glucan and/or Bacillus coagulans: Synergistic impacts on performance, immune responses, redox status and expression of some related genes
Authors: Fath El-Bab Ahmed F. , Majrashi Kamlah A. , Sheikh Huda M. , Shafi Manal E. , El-Ratel Ibrahim T. , Neamat-Allah Ahmed N. F. , El-Raghi Ali A. , Elazem Amar Y. Abd , Abd-Elghany Mohamed F. , Abdelnour Sameh A. , Abduh Maisa S. , Jaremko Mariusz , Naiel Mohammed A. E.
Published: September 2022

A 14-week feeding study was conducted to assess the effects of feed supplementation with prebiotics β-glucan (BG group) and/or probiotics Bacillus coagulans (BC group) on O. niloticus growth performance, body analysis, intestinal structure, immunological response, and antioxidant status. The fish were equally divided into six groups, as follows: the fish group fed an un-supplemented diet served as a control group; the other fish groups were fed supplemented diets with 0.1 g β-glucan kg−1; 1 g Bacillus coagulans kg−1; 2 g B. coagulans kg−1; 0.1 g β-glucan combined with 1 g B. coagulans kg−1; 0.1 g β-glucan combined with 2 g B. coagulans kg−1. The findings revealed that supplementing B. coagulans and the β-glucan mixture improved growth performance and feed efficiency parameters (RGR and SGR) more than the other groups. The fish flesh analysis revealed increased crude protein and dry matter content and lower lipid and ash levels in the BG and BC supplemented groups than in the Control group. On the other hand, β-glucan and B. coagulans supplementation significantly boosted antioxidant activity and immunological responses in serum as determined by CAT, MDA, lysozyme, and phagocytic activity. Dietary β-glucan and B. coagulans supplementation remarkedly enhanced anterior intestine villus histomorphometry characteristics. Furthermore, B. coagulans, alone or in combination with β-glucan, could reduce HSP70 and IL-1β gene expression while increasing IL-8 and GH gene expression. According to the findings, B. coagulans and/or BG increased growth performance by increasing gut health and morphology. Furthermore, β-glucan and B. coagulans supplementation enhanced Tilapia's body composition, immunological responses, and antioxidant status.
Improvement of Pain Management by Nefopam in a Rat Adjuvant-Induced Arthritis Model
Authors: Dalix Elisa , Maalouf Mathieu , Linossier Marie-Thérèse , Vanden-Bossche Arnaud , Peyroche Sylvie , Marotte Hubert
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA) model is widely used in research to investigate arthritis pathogenesis. Hind paw inflammation is the main outcome in this model with high loss of mobility function partly related to pain. However, analgesics such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or opioid drugs interfere with the inflammation process related to arthritis, thus reducing their beneficial use in this model. Therefore, we investigated the effect of nefopam on arthritis development in order to improve pain management in the AIA model.

Methods

Female Lewis rats were randomly divided into two groups, and each group received an injection of Mycobacterium butyricum on defining day (D) 0. At D6, rats (n = 10) received nefopam (intraperitoneally or orally) or NaCl 0.9% IP or 1% sucrose in water (n = 5 for each). Rats were monitored with the arthritic index (AI) and ankle circumference. Pain was assessed by scoring based on behavioral indicators. Histology, RT-qPCR, and microcomputed tomography were performed.

Results

The clinical parameter AI and ankle circumference were not different in both groups at various time points. However, pain score was significantly lower in the nefopam group at the early stage of the disease. At a later stage of the disease, inflammation was mildly lower whereas bone erosion and bone loss parameters increased in the nefopam group.

Conclusion

Nefopam provided a slight reduction in the level of pain at the arthritis onset without reducing arthritis severity and bone loss in the rat AIA model. However, it should be administrated orally for a shorter period to avoid inflammation reduction in the long run.
Greenhouse gas balance and mitigation of pasture-based dairy production systems in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest Biome
Authors: Oliveira Patrícia Perondi Anchão , Berndt Alexandre , Pedroso André de Faria , Alves Teresa Cristina , Lemes Amanda Prudêncio , Oliveira Bia Anchão , Pezzopane José Ricardo Macedo , Rodrigues Paulo Henrique Mazza
Published: September 2022

Brazilian cattle production is mostly carried out in pastures, and the need to mitigate the livestock's greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and its environmental footprint has become an important requirement. The adoption of well-suited breeds and the intensification of pasture-based livestock production systems are alternatives to optimize the sector's land use. However, further research on tropical systems is necessary. The objective of this research was to evaluate the effect of Holstein (HO) and Jersey–Holstein (JE x HO) crossbred cows in different levels of pasture intensification (continuous grazing system with low stocking rate–CLS; irrigated rotational grazing system with high stocking rate–RHS), and the interaction between these two factors on GHG mitigation. Twenty-four HO and 24 JE x HO crossbred dairy cows were used to evaluate the effect of two grazing systems on milk production and composition, soil GHG emissions, methane (CH4) emission, and soil carbon accumulation (0–100 cm). These variables were used to calculate carbon balance (CB), GHG emission intensity, the number of trees required to mitigate GHG emission, and the land-saving effect. The number of trees necessary to mitigate GHG emission was calculated, considering the C balance within the farm gate. The mitigation of GHG emissions comes from the annual growth rate and accumulation of C in eucalyptus trees' trunks. The CB of all systems and genotypes presented a deficit in carbon (C); there was no difference for genotypes, but RHS was more deficient than CLS (-4.99 to CLS and −28.72 to RHS ton CO2e..ha−1.year−1). The deficit of C on GHG emission intensity was similar between genotypes and higher for RHS (−0.480 to RHS and −0.299 to CLS kg CO2e..kg FCPCmilk−1). Lower GHG removals (0.14 to CLS higher than 0.02 to RHS kg CO2e..kg FCPCmilk−1) had the greatest influence on the GHG emission intensity of milk production. The deficit number of trees to abatement emissions was higher to HO (−46.06 to HO and −38.37 trees/cow to JE x HO) and to RHS (−51.9 to RHS and −33.05 trees/cow to CLS). However, when the results are expressed per ton of FCPCmilk, there was a difference only between pasture management, requiring −6.34 tree. ton FCPCmilk−1 for the RHS and −3.99 tree. ton FCPCmilk−1 for the CLS system. The intensification of pastures resulted in higher milk production and land-saving effect of 2.7 ha. Due to the reservation of the pasture-based dairy systems in increasing soil C sequestration to offset the GHG emissions, especially enteric CH4, planting trees can be used as a mitigation strategy. Also, the land-save effect of intensification can contribute to the issue, since the area spared through the intensification in pasture management becomes available for reforestation with commercial trees.
Longitudinal Association Between Depressive Symptoms and Cognitive Function Among Older Adults: A Latent Growth Curve Modeling Approach
Authors: Gao Zihan , Liu Cuiping , Yang Li , Mei Xinyi , Wei Xiao , Kuang Jinke , Zhou Kexin , Xu Mengfan
Published: September 2022

Objectives: Although the evidence from numerous longitudinal studies has indicated a remarkable change in cognitive function (CF) and depressive symptoms (DS) over time, the parallel latent growth curve model (LGCM) has seldom been used to simultaneously investigate the relationship between their change trajectories. This study aimed to examine whether a change in DS was associated with CF over time using an LGCM.

Methods: Data were collected from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey’s 2011, 2014, and 2018 waves. A parallel LGCM examined the association between CF and DS.

Results: The multivariate conditioned model’s goodness of fit supported the validity of the longitudinal model (Tucker-Lewis index [TLI] = 0.90, comparative fit index [CFI] = 0.96, root mean square error of approximation [RMSEA] = 0.04). The results showed that the CF intercept was positively to the DS slope (β = 0.42, p = 0.004). The CF and DS slopes were significantly linked (β = −0.65, p = 0.002).

Conclusion: The findings expand the knowledge about CF’s effect on DS in older adults.
The Microcosmic Mechanism and Empirical Test of Uncertainty on the Non-Linear Fluctuation of Chinese Grain Prices-Based on the Perspective of Global Economic Policy Uncertainty
Authors: Hua Junguo , Li Hui , He Zejun , Ding Jing , Jin Futong
Published: September 2022

The dramatic fluctuations in grain prices and the threat to grain security caused by global economic policy uncertainty have been a social concern and a challenging area for price management authorities to regulate. Based on general equilibrium analysis in microeconomics, this paper constructs a mathematical model of the impact of global economic policy uncertainty on grain price fluctuation. It then examines the micro mechanism of non-linear grain price fluctuation under the dominant market mechanism and measures the non-linear shock effect of global economic policy uncertainty on grain prices using a threshold regression model. The results show that soybean and corn prices are subject to a two-zone fluctuation pattern due to global economic policy uncertainty. The impact has significant non-linear characteristics and is significantly greater in the high zone than that in the low zone. Accordingly, this paper offers government departments advice on better regulating and managing the market supply and demand and smoothing out sharp fluctuations in grain prices caused by changes in global economic policies.
A Dose–Response Analysis of Rice Yield to Agrochemical Use in Ghana
Authors: Addai Kwabena Nyarko , Ng’ombe John N. , Kaitibie Simeon
Published: September 2022

In recent years, Ghanaian agriculture has witnessed a surge in the use of agrochemicals, with the likely consequence that nonoptimal levels of application could cause environmental damage and economic losses. We identify the factors that affect the adoption of agrochemicals and the intensity of use in Ghanaian rice farming. We estimate the average treatment effects of chemical fertilizer and herbicide adoption using a Dose–Response Model (DRM). Our results show that a wide range of socioeconomic factors, including education, asset ownership, extension service, off-farm income, and land ownership affect adoption and use intensity of agrochemicals. On average, chemical fertilizer usage is associated with a 10% increase in the average treatment effect; low levels of chemical fertilizer have a negative impact on rice yield, and the result turns positive with more intensive use. Similarly, herbicide treatment generates a 7% increase in the average treatment effect, but higher herbicide levels will have negative causal effects on rice yield, and the result worsens with more herbicide treatment. Both agricultural technologies were designed to be used together, hence the appropriate mix of levels and intensity is crucial to achieve greater benefits. The DRM accounts for heterogeneity in the sample and is a useful tool to develop guidance on optimal levels of agrochemicals.
Humic Acids Formation during Compositing of Plant Remnants in Presence of Calcium Carbonate and Biochar
Authors: Orlova Nataliya , Orlova Elena , Abakumov Evgeny , Smirnova Kseniia , Chukov Serafim
Published: September 2022

The investigation of the mechanisms organic matter transformation in compost organic fertilizers is an urgent task of modern soil ecology and soil chemistry. The main components of such fertilizers are newly formed, weakly humified labile humic acids (HAs). The objective of the study is to determine the mechanism of converting the newly formed HAs into the forms with increased resistance to microbiological and biochemical influences. Obtained during the plant residues decomposition, HAs were studied in the incubation experiment (0, 30, 90 days). Calcium carbonate and biochar produced by rapid pyrolysis from birch and aspen wood, at 550 °C, were used as the composting mixture compounds. Decomposed plant residues—fresh aboveground mass of clover (Trifolium pratense L.), rye (Secale cereale L.), as well as dry oat straw (Avena sativa L.) were the material used for humification. To obtain Has, 0.1 M NaOH and 0.1 M Na4P2O7 were used. Then, HAs were separated from fulvic acids (FAs) using a 0.5 M H2SO4. The amount of labile HAs (HAs1) was estimated by their content in 0.1 M NaOH. The amount of stabilized HAs (HAs2) was calculated by the difference between the HAs content in 0.1 M Na4P2O7 and 0.1 M NaOH. Preparation of HAs for elemental composition and NMR analysis was performed according to the International Humic Substances Society’s recommendations. The possibility of converting newly formed HAs into stable forms (calcium humates), whose share in the HAs composition reaches 40–50%, has been shown. However, the mechanism of HAs transformation under the studied reagent’s influence was different. In the presence of calcium carbonate, it is caused by the physicochemical processes of newly formed HAs rearrangement. However, in the presence of biochar, this is due to the humification processes’ intensification and to the increase in the aromatization degree confirmed by the increase in the optical density, as well as by the increase in carbon and oxygen proportion, and by the decrease in hydrogen proportion in HAs molecules. The understanding of HAs formation and transformation mechanisms at the early humification stages can help to optimize the methods of obtaining organic fertilizers.
¹H-NMR Metabolic Profiling, Antioxidant Activity, and Docking Study of Common Medicinal Plant-Derived Honey
Authors: Montaser Maha , Ali Asmaa T. , Sayed Ahmed M. , Abdelmohsen Usama Ramadan , Zidan Ehab W. , Orfali Raha , Rateb Mostafa E. , Zaki Mohamed A. , Hassan Hossam M. , Mohammed Rabab , Hifnawy Mohamed S.
Published: September 2022

The purpose of this investigation was to determine ¹H-NMR profiling and antioxidant activity of the most common types of honey, namely, citrus honey (HC1) (Morcott tangerine L. and Jaffa orange L.), marjoram honey (HM1) (Origanum majorana L.), and clover honey (HT1) (Trifolium alexandrinum L.), compared to their secondary metabolites (HC2, HM2, HT2, respectively). By using a ¹H-NMR-based metabolomic technique, PCA, and PLS-DA multivariate analysis, we found that HC2, HM2, HC1, and HM1 were clustered together. However, HT1 and HT2 were quite far from these and each other. This indicated that HC1, HM1, HC2, and HM2 have similar chemical compositions, while HT1 and HT2 were unique in their chemical profiles. Antioxidation potentials were determined colorimetrically for scavenging activities against DPPH, ABTS, ORAC, 5-LOX, and metal chelating activity in all honey extract samples and their secondary metabolites. Our results revealed that HC2 and HM2 possessed more antioxidant activities than HT2 in vitro. HC2 demonstrated the highest antioxidant effect in all assays, followed by HM2 (DPPH assay: IC50 2.91, 10.7 μg/mL; ABTS assay: 431.2, 210.24 at 50 ug/mL Trolox equivalent; ORAC assay: 259.5, 234.8 at 50 ug/mL Trolox equivalent; 5-LOX screening assay/IC50: 2.293, 6.136 ug/mL; and metal chelating activity at 50 ug/mL: 73.34526%, 63.75881% inhibition). We suggest that the presence of some secondary metabolites in HC and HM, such as hesperetin, linalool, and caffeic acid, increased the antioxidant activity in citrus and marjoram compared to clover honey.
A Parallel Robotic Antenna Design for Downlinking Leo Satellite Signal Subject to Wind Disturbance
Authors: Espinoza Miguel , Olguín-Díaz Ernesto , Parra-Vega Vicente , Alvarez-Vargas Rogelio
Published: September 2022

Passive LEO (Low Earth Orbit) satellites are a telecom premier option. However, LEO satellites impose not only stringent specifications on the resolution, precision and repeatability but also requiring advanced antenna technology for signal downlinking. To efficiently downlink LEO signals at each passage onto a given Earth region, we explored large size passive Earth antenna and an array of smaller size active Earth antennas to minimize the trajectory loss. To guarantee design specifications, the dynamics cannot be neglected given the size and inertia of base and antenna. In this paper, it is proposed the design, path planning and control of a six DoF robotic antenna maneuvering the antenna subject to aerodynamic wind disturbance. The system maneuvers to point at the LEO satellite over the whole envelope with the required precision to guarantee robust point-to-point tracking. Representative simulation results for three geolocations shows practical tracking with off-the-shelf-component actuators, without requiring any knowledge of the dynamics while withstanding state-dependent persistent disturbances.
Scalability of Mach Number Effects on Noise Emitted by Side-by-Side Propellers
Authors: Poggi Caterina , Bernardini Giovanni , Gennaretti Massimo , Camussi Roberto
Published: September 2022

This paper presents a numerical investigation of noise radiated by two side-by-side propellers, suitable for Distributed-Electric-Propulsion concepts. The focus is on the assessment of the variation of the effects of blade tip Mach number on the radiated noise for variations of the direction of rotation, hub relative position, and the relative phase angle between the propeller blades. The aerodynamic analysis is performed through a potential-flow-based boundary integral formulation, which is able to model severe body–wake interactions.The noise field is evaluated through a boundary-integral formulation for the solution of the Ffowcs Williams and Hawkings equation. The numerical investigation shows that: the blade tip Mach number strongly affects the magnitude and directivity of the radiated noise; the increase of the tip-clearance increases the spatial frequency of the noise directivity at the two analyzed tip Mach numbers for both co-rotating and counter-rotating configurations; for counter-rotating propellers, the relative phase angle between the propeller blades provides a decrease of the averaged emitted noise, regardless the tip Mach number. One of the main results achieved is the scalability with the blade tip Mach number of the influence on the emitted noise of the considered design parameters.
Heat Transfer Performance of a Downhole Electric Tubular Resistive Heater
Authors: Chen Yu , Zeng Hao , Wang Jianli , Chen Haoran , Zhu Jianjun
Published: September 2022

A downhole electric tubular resistive heater is proposed for the oil-shale in situ resorting. After flowing through a set of heating tubes, the outlet temperature and the flow rate of the injected gas can be conveniently adjusted to match the requirement of the pyrolysis temperature of the oil shale. The calculation demonstrates the effects of the inner diameter, the length of the heating tube, and the inlet flow rate on the heat transfer performance of the electric heater. It was found that, compared with the armored electric heaters, even with a small inject flow rate of 5 Nm3/min, the convective heat transfer coefficient of the inner flow exceeds 300 W/m2 K, resulting in a much smaller thermal resistance. The outlet temperature of the heating gas can conveniently reach up to 900 °C with the absence of the complex structure of enhanced fins. Though the pressure loss is relatively larger under a high flow rate, the comprehensive index is still 40% higher, indicating that the present tubular electric heater is a promising candidate to deal with complex downhole conditions.