bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What are the consequences of ignoring cross-loadings in bifactor models? A simulation study assessing parameter recovery and sensitivity of goodness-of-fit indices
Authors: Ximénez Carmen , Revuelta Javier , Castañeda Raúl
Published: August 2022

Bifactor latent models have gained popularity and are widely used to model construct multidimensionality. When adopting a confirmatory approach, a common practice is to assume that all cross-loadings take zero values. This article presents the results of a simulation study exploring the impact of ignoring non-zero cross-loadings on the performance of confirmatory bifactor analysis. The present work contributes to previous research by including study conditions that had not been examined before. For instance, a wider range of values of the factor loadings both for the group factors and the cross-loadings is considered. Parameter recovery is analyzed, but the focus of the study is on assessing the sensitivity of goodness-of-fit indices to detect the model misspecification that involves ignoring non-zero cross-loadings. Several commonly used SEM fit indices are examined: both biased estimators of the fit index (CFI, GFI, and SRMR) and unbiased estimators (RMSEA and SRMR). Results indicated that parameter recovery worsens when ignoring moderate and large cross-loading values and using small sample sizes, and that commonly used SEM fit indices are not useful to detect such model misspecifications. We recommend the use of the unbiased SRMR index with a cutoff value adjusted by the communality level (R2), as it is the only fit index sensitive to the model misspecification due to ignoring non-zero cross-loadings in the bifactor model. The results of the present study provide insights into modeling cross-loadings in confirmatory bifactor models but also practical recommendations to researchers.
Exploration on the collaborative innovation path of college students' ideological education and psychological education
Authors: Lin Cuixia , Lin Keneng
Published: August 2022

As a highly practical educational activity, mental health education must be guided by rich theories to maintain the steady development of mental health education. Ideological education plays a predictive role in college students' crisis management, which can improve college students' psychological crisis management ability. This paper proposes an early warning index system and applies it to the construction of an early warning mechanism, completes the qualitative and quantitative analysis of early warning information evaluation, and changes the situation that information evaluation only stays at the level of qualitative analysis in traditional methods. Quantitative analysis is more conducive to accurately predict the occurrence of psychological crisis. Through empirical research, this paper finds that there is a significant interaction between stressors and coping styles in the process of affecting mental health. The result of interaction is not only equal to the superposition of the influence of a single factor, but also greater or lesser than the superposition of the influence of a single factor. The study found that there was a significant correlation between stressors and mental health. It is one of the many factors that affect mental health, and it is also the main reason to induce college students' psychological crisis. Mature coping styles are significantly positively correlated with mental health, while immature coping styles are significantly negatively correlated with mental health. This paper tests students, which is more conducive to the timely warning of psychological crisis.
Awareness of age-related gains and losses as moderators of daily stress reactivity in middle- and older-adulthood
Authors: Wilton-Harding Bethany , Weber Nathan , Windsor Tim D.
Published: August 2022

Objectives

Associations between awareness of one’s own aging and wellbeing have received increasing attention in the field of gerontology over the last decade. The current study examines how between-person differences and within-person fluctuations of awareness of age-related change (AARC) relate to daily negative affect and vitality. Of key interest was the extent to which fluctuations in AARC moderated reactivity to stressor exposure. We predicted that higher positive perceptions of aging (AARC-gains) would buffer the relationship between daily stressors and negative affect/vitality. Conversely, we expected that higher negative perceptions (AARC-losses) may exacerbate the relationship between daily stressors and the outcome variables.

Methods

Data were collected from a community-based sample of 152 Australian adults aged 53–86 (M = 69.18, SD = 5.73). For 10 consecutive days, participants completed surveys on their smartphones measuring daily stressors, AARC, and affect (positive and negative). Bayesian hierarchical linear models were used to examine whether AARC-gains and AARC-losses moderated within-person associations of daily stressors and affect (i.e., stress reactivity).

Results

At the between-person level, higher AARC-gains was associated with lower negative affect and higher vitality, whereas those reporting higher AARC-losses scored higher on negative affect and lower on vitality. Within-person variables revealed that on days when AARC-gains was higher and AARC-losses was lower, this corresponded with lower negative affect and higher vitality. There was no evidence in support of individual moderating effects of within-person AARC-losses or within-person AARC-gains on stress reactivity. A trend was evident in support of a three-way WP Stress severity × WP AARC-gains × WP AARC-losses interaction in the prediction of negative affect, indicating that on days when AARC-losses was higher, the association of stress severity with negative affect was weaker if AARC-gains was higher. Follow-up analyses modeling quadratic stress severity revealed a trend suggesting an interaction of within-person stress severity and within-person AARC-losses.

Discussion

Results indicate that both individual differences and short-term fluctuations in AARC are associated with daily negative affect and vitality. The results provided qualified support for a possible protective role of AARC-gains in the context of stress reactivity.
Association between the mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) and calf circumference (CC) screening indicators of sarcopenia with the risk of pneumonia in stable patients diagnosed with schizophrenia
Authors: Ren Silan , Huang Sha , Chen Ming , Zhu Tian , Li Qiuxia , Chen Xiaoyan
Published: August 2022

Aim

Here, we investigate the relationship between mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) and calf circumference (CC) screening indicators of sarcopenia and the risk of pneumonia in stable patients diagnosed with schizophrenia.

Method

The study is prospective and includes inpatients with schizophrenia from two mental health centers in Western China. The studied screening indicators, MUAC and CC were assessed in standing patients. The relationship between MUAC and CC as sarcopenia screening indicators with the risk of pneumonia in patients with schizophrenia was analyzed by performing a statistical logistic regression analysis.

Result

For this study, 339 patients with schizophrenia, aged 50 years and over were recruited. Moreover, four patients with pneumonia that occurred within 1 week of the relapse of schizophrenia were excluded. As a result, only 335 patients were included in the analysis. Pneumonia has been reported in 82 (24.5%) of all included patients with schizophrenia. Our data analysis confirmed that in the male patients, the higher CC was associated with a lower risk of pneumonia (odds ratio [OR] = 0.751, 95% CI: 0.635–0.889). We have divided men into two cohorts following the values of CC. Our analysis further showed that the patients with CC ≥ 34 cm had a lower risk of pneumonia in men (OR = 0.36, 95% CI: 0.163–0.795).

Conclusion

We demonstrate that CC is associated with pneumonia risk in stable men with schizophrenia.
The HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis continuum of care among women who inject drugs: A systematic review
Authors: Guy Danielle , Doran Jason , White Trenton M. , van Selm Lena , Noori Teymur , Lazarus Jeffrey V.
Published: August 2022

Introduction

People who inject drugs have a substantial risk for HIV infection, especially women who inject drugs (WWID). HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), a highly-effective HIV prevention drug, is uncommonly studied among WWID, and we aimed to synthesize existing knowledge across the full PrEP continuum of care in this population.

Methods

We systematically searched for peer-reviewed literature in three electronic databases, conference abstracts from three major HIV conferences, and gray literature from relevant sources.

Eligibility criteria included quantitative, qualitative or mixed-methods studies with primary data collection reporting a PrEP-related finding among WWID, and published in English or Spanish between 2012 and 2021. The initial search identified 2,809 citations, and 32 were included. Data on study characteristics and PrEP continuum of care were extracted, then data were analyzed in a narrative review.

Results

Our search identified 2,809 studies; 32 met eligibility requirements. Overall, awareness, knowledge, and use of PrEP was low among WWID, although acceptability was high. Homelessness, sexual violence, unpredictability of drug use, and access to the healthcare system challenged PrEP usage and adherence. WWID were willing to share information on PrEP with other WWID, especially those at high-risk of HIV, such as sex workers.

Conclusions

To improve PrEP usage and engagement in care among WWID, PrEP services could be integrated within gender-responsive harm reduction and drug treatment services. Peer-based interventions can be used to improve awareness and knowledge of PrEP within this population. Further studies are needed on transgender WWID as well as PrEP retention and adherence among all WWID.
Short-term cognitive impacts of electronic gaming machines with and without a skill-based component: A comparative laboratory study
Authors: Gainsbury Sally M. , Philander Kahlil S.
Published: August 2022

This study aimed to compare how consumers understand the role of skill and chance, experience cognitive distortions, and experience immersion based on use of either electronic gaming machines (EGMs) or skill gambling machines (SGMs; EGMs with a skill-based component). Participants (N = 246, Mage = 34 years, 56.91% female) in a laboratory experiment were randomly assigned to play a real EGM or SGM without funds and self-reported measures including intention to gamble, understanding of the role of skill and chance, erroneous gambling beliefs, previous gambling and gaming, and problem gambling severity. Participants demonstrated different deficits in understanding of the role of skill vs. chance in determining outcomes following play. SGM players were more likely to increase their belief that a skill impacts outcomes and focused more on the game play experience. EGM players focused more on wins and personal performance. Intention to play both machines was predicted in both groups by greater experience of immersion during play and breadth of previous gambling, but breadth of previous gaming experience only predicted intent to play SGMs. The results revealed that both EGM and SGM players fail to understand how outcomes are determined, which is likely more problematic for EGM players as this reflects clear cognitive distortions. Further real-world testing is required to understand the extent to which SGMs harms may be different than EGMs, however, these initial findings suggest that their risks appear comparable to EGMs while attracting individuals with more gaming experience.
Ten tips for teaching research integrity to early career students: A perspective over 20 years
Authors: Martinez-Campos Maruxa
Published: August 2022

Early Career Researchers (ECRs) are becoming increasingly aware of the importance of good scientific practices to ensure their work is trustworthy; but also of the effect that research culture has on those practices. Here I suggest ten tips on how best teach young researchers by incorporating their perspectives and needs. These are based on the lessons learned through our 20-year experience with a blended compulsory course for PhD students in a public university in Barcelona.
Experiments on norm focusing and losses in dictator games
Authors: Windrich Ivo , Kierspel Sabrina , Neumann Thomas , Berger Roger , Vogt Bodo
Published: August 2022

We conducted experiments on norm focusing. The tests were carried out with two versions of dictator games: in one version of the game, the dictator had to allocate a gain of €10, while in the other version, a loss of €−10 needs to be allocated. In a first treatment, we focused subjects on the average giving in similar previous dictator games. The second treatment focused subjects on the behaviour of what a self-interested actor should do. In total, N = 550 participants took part in our experiments. We found (1) a significant difference in giving behaviour between gain and loss treatments, with subjects being moderately more self-interested in the loss domain, (2) a significant effect of focusing subjects on the average behaviour of others, but (3) no effect of focusing subjects on the behaviour of self-interested actors.
The discrepancy between preoperative cervical sagittal vertical axis and T1 slope predisposes inferior clinical outcomes in patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy after cervical laminoplasty
Authors: Wang Dong-Fan , Zhu Wei-Guo , Wang Wei , Li Xiang-Yu , Kong Chao , Liu Cheng-Xin , Shi Bin , Lu Shi-Bao
Published: August 2022

Objective

Cervical sagittal parameters have been widely used to predict clinical outcomes in patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM). This study aims to coin a novel cervical sagittal parameter defined as the ratio of cervical sagittal vertical axis to T1 slope (CSVA/T1S) and to investigate the correlation between CSVA/T1S and postoperative HRQOL after laminoplasty.

Methods

A total of 102 CSM patients treated with cervical laminoplasty from our database were retrospectively reviewed. All patients were followed up for >12 months. Radiological parameters were measured using lateral cervical radiographs, including occiput-C2 lordosis (OC2), cervical lordosis (CL), CSVA, and T1S. Clinical parameters included the Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) score, neck disability index (NDI), and JOA recovery rate. Patients were grouped by preoperative T1S, T1S-CL, and CSVA/T1S value, respectively. Clinical and radiological outcomes were compared between the groups.

Results

Patients with high CSVA/T1S had greater OC2 and CSVA but lower CL than those in the low CSVA/T1S group pre-and postoperatively. With respect to HRQOL results, the final NDI was 12.46 ± 9.11% in the low CSVA/T1S group, which was significantly lower than that in the high CSVA/T1S group (17.68 ± 8.81%, P = 0.040). Moreover, only CSVA/T1S was detected to be significantly correlated with final NDI (r = 0.310, P = 0.027). No significant correlation was found between clinical results and other cervical sagittal parameters, including T1S, CSVA, and T1S-CL.

Conclusions

Preoperative CSVA/T1S was correlated with postoperative NDI in patients with CSM after cervical laminoplasty. Patients with low preoperative CSVA/T1S achieved better neurological function improvement after cervical laminoplasty. Cervical laminoplasty could be an appropriate choice for patients with lower preoperative CSVA/T1S.
Analysis of lymph node spread and its prognostic significance in ampullary adenocarcinoma: A retrospective study
Authors: Zhang Zheng-Yun , Guan Jiao , Wang Xin-Ping , Hao Di-Si , Zhou Zun-Qiang
Published: August 2022

Background

Nodal status is a vital prognostic factor for ampullary adenocarcinoma. This study was designed to evaluate the clinical significance of the positive nodes in this disease.

Methods

Data from 110 patients who underwent curative pancreatoduodenectomy for ampullary adenocarcinoma between January 2007 and December 2018 were retrospectively collected and analyzed.

Results

The median number of lymph nodes per patient was 32 (20–46). Metastatic lymph nodes were found in 84 (76.4%) patients. In patients with positive nodules, the most commonly involved nodes were the #13 (80.1%) and #17 (78.6%) nodes, followed by #12 (69.0%) and #8 nodes (57.1%). Patients with 3–4 positive nodes among #13, #17, #12, and #8 had lower survival rates than those with 0 or 1–2 nodes.

Conclusion

Ampullary adenocarcinoma commonly spreads to #13, #17, #12, and #8 lymph nodes. These nodes affected the patients' survival rates dramatically.
RETRACTED: A predictive model based on ground glass nodule features via high-resolution CT for identifying invasiveness of lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Yan Bo , Chang Yuanyuan , Jiang Yifeng , Liu Yuan , Yuan Junyi , Li Rong
Published: August 2022

Objective

The morphology of ground-glass nodule (GGN) under high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) has been suggested to indicate different histological subtypes of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD); however, existing studies only include the limited number of GGN characteristics, which lacks a systematic model for predicting invasive LUAD. This study aimed to construct a predictive model based on GGN features under HRCT for LUAD.

Methods

A total of 301 surgical LUAD patients with HRCT-confirmed GGN were enrolled, and their GGN-related features were assessed by 2 individual radiologists. The pathological diagnosis of the invasive LUAD was established by pathologic examination following surgery (including 171 invasive and 130 non-invasive LUAD patients).

Results

GGN features including shorter distance from pleura, larger diameter, area and mean CT attenuation, more heterogeneous uniformity of density, irregular shape, coarse margin, not defined nodule-lung interface, spiculation, pleural indentation, air bronchogram, vacuole sign, vessel changes, lobulation were observed in invasive LUAD patients compared with non-invasive LUAD patients. After adjustment by multivariate logistic regression model, GGN diameter (OR = 1.490, 95% CI, 1.326–1.674), mean CT attenuation (OR = 1.007, 95% CI, 1.004–1.011) and heterogeneous uniformity of density (OR = 3.009, 95% CI, 1.485–6.094) were independent risk factors for invasive LUAD. In addition, a predictive model integrating these three independent GGN features was established (named as invasion of lung adenocarcinoma by GGN features (ILAG)), and receiver-operating characteristic curve illustrated that the ILAG model presented good predictive value for invasive LUAD (AUC: 0.919, 95% CI, 0.889–0.949).

Conclusions

ILAG predictive model integrating GGN diameter, mean CT attenuation and heterogeneous uniformity of density via HRCT shows great potential for early estimation of LUAD invasiveness.
Potential of Pseudomonas and Trichoderma from the Brazilian Amazon as Biocontrol Agents against the Wheat Blast Disease
Authors: Pereira Maikon Richer de Azambuja , Moreira Silvino Intra , Silva Abimael Gomes da , Nunes Tiago Calves , Vicentini Samara Nunes Campos , Silva Davi Prata da , Silveira Patrícia Ricardino da , Oliveira Tamiris Yoshie Kiyama de , Silva Tatiane Carla , Botelho Deila Magna dos Santos , Resende Mario Lúcio Vilela , Ceresini Paulo Cezar
Published: August 2022

Blast is one of the most significant wheat diseases, causing high yield losses in susceptible varieties under favorable conditions in Latin America, Southeastern Asia and Eastern Africa. The disease is caused by the ascomycetous fungal pathogen Pyricularia oryzae Triticum lineage (PoTl). Chemical control with fungicides has been used as a management strategy; however, the effectiveness of the major classes of high-risk site-specific systemic fungicides has been reduced due to the widespread prevalence of resistance, especially in Brazil. Biological control is seen as a highly important and sustainable strategy to minimize the impact of yield losses associated with wheat blast in areas where fungicides are ineffective. In our study, we specifically aimed to determine the biological control potential of the three isolates of fluorescent Pseudomonas and three of Trichoderma as the antagonists of PoTl, both in in vitro and under greenhouse conditions. Additionally, we aimed to describe the ultrastructural interactions among the biocontrol agents and the pathogen in vitro by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Fluorescent P. wayambapalatensis ‘Amana’ or Pseudomonas sp. nov. ‘Yara’, both from the P. putida group, and Trichoderma koningiopsis ‘Cachara’ significantly reduced PoTl in vitro mycelial growth and the blast disease severity on wheat plants. The SEM analyses revealed ultrastructural antagonistic mechanisms: biofilm formation, direct antagonism and mycoparasitism. Further research on the topic should include the development of stable formulations of the Pseudomonas- and Trichoderma-based biocontrol agents selected in our study for managing the wheat blast disease and the field tests of the biofungicide formulations obtained thereafter.
The Effect of LED and HPS Assimilation Lighting on Leaf Anatomy, Chlorophyll and Carotenoid Autofluorescence Signals, and Some Physiological and Chemical Leaf Traits Related to the Productivity of Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) in High-Wire Cultivation
Authors: Kowalczyk Katarzyna , Sieczko Leszek , Borucki Wojciech , Sujkowska-Rybkowska Marzena , Mirgos Małgorzata , Niedzińska Monika , Bederska-Błaszczyk Magdalena , Kowalczyk Waldemar , Geszprych Anna , Gajc-Wolska Janina
Published: August 2022

Supplemental lighting with light-emitting diode (LED) lamps and/or high-pressure sodium (HPS) lamps was applied to increase the activity of the photosynthetic apparatus and thus productivity of greenhouse cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) in a high-wire growing system. The colocalisation of the chlorophyll of PSII (located mainly in grana) and carotenoid fluorescence signals in chloroplasts of cucumber leaves was studied under confocal microscopy. Leaf anatomy and some chemical quality traits (dry matter, chlorophyll, carotenoids, total soluble solids, total sugars and nitrate reductase activity) as well as selected chlorophyll fluorescence parameters were also investigated and subjected to the multidimensional principal component analysis together with the data on fruit yield. Under LED lighting, a lower correlation between the occurrence of chlorophyll and carotenoid fluorescence signals was observed, especially in older (lower-located) leaves, which may have resulted from changes in the distribution of carotenoids within chloroplasts and/or relative concentrations of chlorophyll and carotenoids. Compared to toplighting with HPS lamps, most commonly used in commercial greenhouse cucumber production, the application of LED interlighting, especially in combination with LED toplighting, led to the increase in chlorophyll and carotenoid content and photosynthetic performance index in older leaves, which was related to the increased cucumber productivity.
Olive Leaves, a Promising Byproduct of Olive Oil Industry: Assessment of Metabolic Profiles and Antioxidant Capacity as a Function of Cultivar and Seasonal Change
Authors: Palmeri Rosa , Siracusa Laura , Carrubba Marco , Parafati Lucia , Proetto Ilaria , Pesce Fabiola , Fallico Biagio
Published: August 2022

Olive (Olea europaea L.) leaves are an abundant byproduct in the olive oil industry characterized by high quantities of phenols. The content of these molecules in olive leaves may vary according to several factors, including cultivar, olive tree alternate bearing cycle, and seasonal variations. In the present study, leaves belonging to five Italian cultivars (‘Biancolilla’, ‘Nocellara Etnea’, ‘Nocellara Messinese’, ‘Nocellara Siracusana’, ‘Zaituna’), cultivated in the same area, were collected from January to August and individually subjected to an appropriate extraction assay. Each extract was analyzed by means of HPLC/DAD/ESI-MS to determine its phytochemical profile and assess inter cultivar and seasonal variations. Moreover, total phenolics, ORAC, and DPPH assays were performed, in order to evaluate the Total Polyphenol Content and antioxidant potential. Seventeen different metabolites belonging to the subclasses of simple phenols, secoiridoids, hydroxycinnamic acids, and flavonoids were identified, quantified, and used as markers to monitor profile variations. The data obtained have shown that secoiridoids, particularly oleuropein, can be regarded as key molecules to discriminate among different cultivars and to assess variability in olive leaves during the flower and fruit development stage. All of the samples evidenced a remarkable antioxidant activity in terms of Radical Scavenging Activity, and as expected, some differences were observed among cultivars and depending on the harvest period through ORAC assay.
Spatial Rice Yield Estimation Using Multiple Linear Regression Analysis, Semi-Physical Approach and Assimilating SAR Satellite Derived Products with DSSAT Crop Simulation Model
Authors: Pazhanivelan Sellaperumal , Geethalakshmi Vellingiri , Tamilmounika R. , Sudarmanian N. S. , Kaliaperumal Ragunath , Ramalingam Kumaraperumal , Sivamurugan A. P. , Mrunalini Kancheti , Yadav Manoj Kumar , Quicho Emma D.
Published: August 2022

Accurate and consistent information on the area and production of field crops is vital for national and state planning and ensuring food security in India. Satellite-based remote sensing offers a suitable and cost-effective technique for regional- and national-scale crop monitoring. The use of remote sensing data for crop yield estimation has been demonstrated using a semi-physical approach with reasonable success. Assimilating remote sensing data with the DSSAT model and spectral indices-based regression analysis are promising methods for spatially estimating rice crop yields. Rice area and yield in the Cauvery delta zone of Tamil Nadu, India was estimated during samba (August–January) season in the years 2020–2021 using Sentinel 1A Synthetic Aperture Radar satellite data with three different spatial yield estimation methods, namely a spectral indices-based regression analysis, semi-physical approach, and integrating remote products with DSSAT crop growth model. A rice area map was generated for the study area using a rule-based classifier approach utilizing parameterization with a classification accuracy of 94.5% and a kappa score of 0.89. The total classified rice area in Cauvery Delta Region was 379,767 ha, and the Start of Season (SoS) maps for samba season revealed that the major planting period for rice was between 22 September and 9 November in 2020. The study also aimed to identify promising spatial yield estimation techniques for optimal rice yield prediction over large areas. Regression models resulted in rice yields of 3234 to 3905 kg ha−1 with a mean of 3654 kg ha−1. The net primary product was computed using the periodical PAR, fAPAR, Wstress, Tstress, and maximum radiation use efficiency in a semi-physical approach. The resultant rice yields ranged between 2652 and 3438 kg ha−1 with the mean of 3076 kg ha−1. During the integration of remote sensing products with crop growth models, LAI values were extracted from dB images and utilized to simulate rice yields in the range of 3684 to 4012 kg ha−1 with the mean of 3855 kg ha−1. When compared to the semi-physical approach, both integrating remote sensing products with the DSSAT crop growth model and spectral indices-based regression analysis had R2 greater than 0.80, NRMSE of less than 10%, and agreement of more than 90%, indicating that these two approaches could be used for spatial rice yield estimation.
Experimental Exposure to Bisphenol A Has Minimal Effects on Bone Tissue in Growing Rams—A Preliminary Study
Authors: Brankovič Jana , Leskovec Jakob , Šturm Sabina , Cerkvenik-Flajs Vesna , Šterpin Saša , Osredkar Joško , Pogorevc Estera , Antolinc David , Vrecl Milka
Published: August 2022

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a well-known synthetic compound that belongs to the group of endocrine-disrupting chemicals. Although bone tissue is a target for these compounds, studies on BPA-related effects on bone morphology in farm animals are limited. In this preliminary study, we investigated the effects of short-term dietary BPA exposure on femoral morphology, metabolism, mineral content, and biomechanical behavior in rams aged 9–12 months. Fourteen rams of the Istrian Pramenka breed were randomly divided into a BPA group and a control group (seven rams/group) and exposed to 25 µg BPA/kg bw for 64 days in feed. Blood was collected for determination of bone turnover markers (procollagen N-terminal propeptide, C-terminal telopeptide), and femurs were assessed via computed tomography, histomorphometry, three-point bending test, and mineral analysis. BPA had no significant effects on most of the parameters studied. Only mineral analysis showed decreased manganese (50%; p ≤ 0.05) and increased copper content (25%; p ≤ 0.05) in the femurs of BPA-exposed rams. These results suggest that a 2-month, low-dose exposure to BPA in growing rams did not affect the histomorphology, metabolism, and biomechanical behavior of femurs; however, it affected the composition of microelements, which could affect the histometric and biophysical properties of bone in the long term.
The Effects of Bacillus licheniformis—Fermented Products on the Microbiota and Clinical Presentation of Cats with Chronic Diarrhea
Authors: Lee Ting-Wei , Chao Tzu-Yi , Chang Hui-Wen , Cheng Yeong-Hsiang , Wu Ching-Ho , Chang Yen-Chen
Published: August 2022

Bacillus licheniformis-fermented products (BLFP) are probiotics with antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties that can improve growth performance. This study aimed to compare the fecal microbiota of diarrheal cats with chronic diarrhea (n = 8) with that of healthy cats (n = 4) from the same household using next-generation sequencing, and evaluate the effectiveness of oral administration of BLFP in relieving clinical signs and altering the intestinal microbiota in diarrheal cats. Six out of eight diarrheal cats showed clinical improvement after BLFP administration for 7 days, and the stool condition of the other two was normal. A higher Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio was noted in the feces of diarrheal cats without clinical improvement as compared with those in the healthy cats and in the diarrheal cats with clinical improvement after receiving BLFP. The phylum Bacteroidetes and class Bacteroidia decreased significantly in diarrheal cats regardless of BLFP administration. Blautia spp., Ruminococcus torques, and Ruminococcus gnavus, which belong to the Clostridium cluster XIVa and have been reported as beneficial to intestinal health, increased significantly in feces after treatment. Furthermore, Clostridium perfringens also significantly decreased in diarrheal cats after BLFP administration. Overall, BLFP could be a potential probiotic to relieve gastrointestinal symptoms and improve fecal microbiota in cats with chronic diarrhea.
Monkeypox: Some Keys to Understand This Emerging Disease
Authors: Gomez-Lucia Esperanza
Published: August 2022

In 1958, several monkeys in a Copenhagen laboratory developed a skin rash from which an orthopoxvirus could be isolated, which was named monkeypox virus (MPXV). However, the natural animal reservoir for MPXV is thought to be a rodent. The first human case occurred in 1970, and the incidence has increased progressively throughout the years. Starting May 2022, the number of cases outside Africa has soared, especially in Western Europe. There are two clades of MPXV, Congo Basin, with higher virulence and mortality, and Western Africa (WA). MPXV from the present outbreak has been proposed to be classified as Clade 3, distinct from the WA clade by at least 50 substitutions, which may increase human-to-human transmissibility. Most cases correspond to men in their 30s who have sex with men, and the possibility of sexual transmission is under investigation. Though there is no evidence of human-to-animal transmission, pets of positive human cases may be classified as low risk, including dogs, cats, and birds, who can be quarantined at home, and high risk, such as pet rabbits or mice, who should be isolated in official laboratories for observation. The current epidemiological data do not support the risk of a pandemic.
Mitochondrial Autoantibodies and the Role of Apoptosis in Pemphigus Vulgaris
Authors: Hutchison Dana M. , Hosking Anna-Marie , Hong Ellen M. , Grando Sergei A.
Published: August 2022

Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) is an IgG autoantibody-mediated, potentially fatal mucocutaneous disease manifested by progressive non-healing erosions and blisters. Beyond acting to inhibit adhesion molecules, PVIgGs elicit a unique process of programmed cell death and detachment of epidermal keratinocytes termed apoptolysis. Mitochondrial damage by antimitochondrial antibodies (AMA) has proven to be a critical link in this process. AMA act synergistically with other autoantibodies in the pathogenesis of PV. Importantly, absorption of AMA inhibits the ability of PVIgGs to induce blisters. Pharmacologic agents that protect mitochondrial function offer a new targeted approach to treating this severe immunoblistering disease.
Development and Evaluation of Virola oleifera Formulation for Cutaneous Wound Healing
Authors: Carvalho Glaucimeire R. , Braz Débora S. , Gonçalves Talita C. O. , Aires Rafaela , Côco Larissa Z. , Guidoni Marcio , Fronza Marcio , Endringer Denise C. , Júnior Antonio D. S. , Campos-Toimil Manuel , Nogueira Breno V. , Vasquez Elisardo C. , Campagnaro Bianca P. , Pereira Thiago M. C.
Published: August 2022

In regions adjacent to the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, Virola oleifera (VO) resin extract has been popularly used for decades as a skin and mucosal healing agent. However, this antioxidant-rich resin has not yet been investigated in wound healing, whose physiological process might also be aggravated by oxidative stress-related diseases (e.g., hypertension/diabetes). Our aim, therefore, was to investigate whether VO resin presents healing effects through an innovative cream for topical applications. For this, adult male Wistar rats were divided into four groups. Then, four 15 mm excisions were performed on the shaved skin. All treatments were applied topically to the wound area daily. At the end of experiments (0, 3rd, and 10th days) macroscopic analysis of wound tissue contraction and histological analysis of inflammatory cell parameters were performed. The group treated with VO cream showed the best wound contraction (15%, p < 0.05) and reduced levels of lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation (118% and 110%, p < 0.05, respectively) compared to the control group. Our results demonstrated the healing capacity of a new formulation prepared with VO, which could be, at least in part, justified by antioxidant mechanisms that contribute to re-epithelialization, becoming a promising dermo-cosmetic for the treatment of wound healing.
A Differential Subgrid Stress Model and Its Assessment in Large Eddy Simulations of Non-Premixed Turbulent Combustion
Authors: Balabanov Roman , Usov Lev , Troshin Alexei , Vlasenko Vladimir , Sabelnikov Vladimir
Published: August 2022

We present a new subgrid stress model for the large eddy simulation of turbulent flows based on the solution of transport equations for stress tensor components. The model was a priori term-by-term calibrated against an open DNS database on forced isotropic turbulence (Johns Hopkins University database). After that, it was applied in a large eddy simulation of non-premixed turbulent combustion. To demonstrate the impact of the new subgrid stress model on scalar fields, we excluded the backward effect of heat release on the subgrid stresses, considering an isothermal reaction (i.e., diluted mixture; the density variations associated with chemical heat release can be neglected) and a Burke–Schumann reaction sheet approximation. A periodic box filled with a homogeneous turbulent velocity field and a three-layer top-hat mixture fraction field was studied. Four simulations were performed in which a fixed model for mixture fraction and its variance was combined with either the proposed subgrid stress model or one of the standard models, including Smagorinsky, dynamic Smagorinsky and WALE. Qualitatively correct backscatter was observed in a simulation with the new model. The differences in the statistics of the mixture fraction and reactive component fields caused by the new subgrid stress model were analyzed and discussed. The importance of using an advanced subgrid stress model was highlighted.
Study on Static Analytical Method of Multi-Tower Self-Anchored Suspension Bridge
Authors: Chen Yong-jian , Wang Song , Zhong Ji-wei , Lian Fei
Published: August 2022

Based on the deflection theory and the characteristics of multi-tower self-anchored suspension bridges, considering the influence of longitudinal stiffness of main tower and bending effect of stiffening beam, the equilibrium differential equation and deformation coordination equation of multi-tower self-anchored suspension bridges are established. By “replacing beam” method, the practical calculation formula of internal force and deformation of multi-tower self-anchored suspension bridge was deduced, and the corresponding calculation program was implemented. The correctness of the analytical method and calculation program was verified by an example. The analytical method of static analysis of multi-tower self-anchored suspension bridges established in this paper can theoretically explain the mechanical characteristics of the structure, and the calculation method has a clear calculation flow. The internal force and deformation of the structure under live load can be approximately calculated only by inputting the main design parameters of the structure, which is suitable for structural design and parameter analysis of multi-tower self-anchored suspension bridge.
Simulation Analysis of Cement-Stabilized Macadam Compaction Processing Based on the Discrete Element Method
Authors: Liang Chunyu , Zhang Hao , Liu Feng , Yan Xili , Bi Haipeng
Published: August 2022

The mechanical properties of cement-stabilized macadam (CSM) base mixture are closely related to its forming process. Although the present study investigates the macroscopic effects of molding on cement-stabilized macadam, mesoscopic research analyses of the internal composition’s structural characteristics and change trends after molding lack sufficient intuitiveness. In this study, we built three-dimensional models of cement-stabilized macadam for heavy compaction molding and vibration molding tests based on the discrete element theory. The effects of different molding methods on cement-stabilized macadam’s internal structure were revealed from the mesoscopic perspective by tracking changes in porosity, coordination number, force chain development and internal particle position during the simulation molding process. The simulation results show that (1) the first 10 compactions had a significant influence on the molding effect, and specimens’ height and porosity decreased the fastest; (2) after the simulation experiments, the average coordination number of particles in the vibration molding specimen was 2.3% higher than that of the heavy compaction molding specimen; (3) after the simulation experiments, the vibration molding specimen’s porosity was 2.5% lower than that of the heavy compaction molding specimen; and (4) the vibration molding specimen’s particle distribution was more uniform, whereas the heavy compaction molding specimen’s particle distribution was dense at the top and sparse at the bottom. Overall, the effect of vibration molding is superior to that of heavy compaction molding.
Apigenin Promotes Proliferation and Mineralization of Human Osteoblasts and Up-Regulates Osteogenic Markers
Authors: D’Amico Emira , Pierfelice Tania Vanessa , Iezzi Giovanna , Di Pietro Natalia , Lepore Stefania , Lorusso Felice , Scarano Antonio , Pandolfi Assunta , Piattelli Adriano , Petrini Morena
Published: August 2022

Apigenin (APG), a natural flavonoid compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties, was found to promote in vitro osteogenic differentiation and to accelerate in vivo bone formation, indicating APG as a promising molecule in bone repair, with potential clinical application in bone-deficient conditions. In particular, in dentistry, it is fundamental to increase the available bone volume for implant placement in the maxilla. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the APG effects on osteoblasts (hOBs) obtained from a human jaw. hOBs were incubated with increasing concentrations of APG (5, 10, 20 µM) to assess cell viability and morphology at 24 h and proliferation at 48 and 72 h. Upon establishing the absence of cytotoxicity and any morphological changes, APG showed a stimulating effect on cell growth, with significative results using 5 µM (5-APG) at 48 h. Thus, 5-APG was chosen for further investigations in order to assess alkaline phosphate (ALP) at 7 days, mineralization at 14 days and expression of ALP, Osteocalcin (OCN) and Collagen 1 (COL1) genes at 7 days. Our results showed that 5-APG accelerated osteoblast mineralization activities and significantly upregulated ALP and COL1 gene expression. Hence, this study demonstrated that APG is able to promote human oral osteoblasts proliferation and mineralization, suggesting its potential usefulness in dentistry.
Changes in the Fluorescence of Biological Particles Exposed to Environmental Conditions in the National Capitol Region
Authors: Santarpia Joshua L. , Collins Don R. , Ratnesar-Shumate Shanna A. , Glen Crystal C. , Sanchez Andres L. , Antonietti Carlos G. , Taylor Jilliane , Taylor Nathan F. , Bare Christopher A. , Kinahan Sean M. , Rivera Danielle N. , Corson Elizabeth , Hill Steven C. , Williamson Chatt C. , Coleman Mark , Pan Yong-Le
Published: August 2022

A variety of methods have been used to study atmospheric bioaerosols. A common technique employed for the detection and measurement of bioaerosols is the measurement of the autofluorescence of biological particles when excited by ultraviolet light. We examined the changes in the fluorescence spectra of bioaerosols when exposed to ambient outdoor conditions for periods of several hours. The bioaerosols in this study were contained in a Captive Aerosol Growth and Evolution (CAGE) chamber that employed two rotating drums constructed with an exterior FEP Teflon film to allow sunlight to penetrate and an inner ePTFE membrane to allow ambient trace gasses to permeate the drums. The bioaerosols were periodically measured with a TSI UV-APS (excited at 355 nm) and a single-particle fluorescence spectrometer (excited at 351 and 263 nm). The data indicate changes in both fluorescence spectral profile and intensity from Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki spores and MS2 bacteriophage particles during the experiments. The changes observed in these particles appear to be due to a combination of the environmental conditions rather than attributable to any single factor. The results of this study indicate that bioaerosols are significantly altered by atmospheric aging processes and that these changes may affect measurements by ultra-violet light induced fluorescence (UV-LIF) or other spectroscopic techniques.
Echo-Signal De-Noising of CO2-DIAL Based on the Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition
Authors: Xiang Chengzhi , Zheng Yuxin , Liang Ailin , Li Ruizhe
Published: August 2022

The carbon dioxide (CO2) differential absorption lidar echo signal is susceptible to noise and must satisfy the high demand for signal-retrieval precision. Thus, a proper de-noising method should be selected to improve the inversion result. In this paper, we simultaneously decompose three signal pairs into different intrinsic mode functions (IMFs) using the method of ensemble empirical mode decomposition (EEMD). Further, the correlation coefficients of the IMFs with the same temporal scale are regarded as the criterion to determine the components that need removal. This method not only retains the useful information effectively but also removes the noise component. A significant improvement in the R2 of the differential absorption optical depth (DAOD) of the de-noised signals is obtained. The results of the simulated and observed analysis signal demonstrated improvement both in the SNR and in the retrieval precision.
Macro Minerals and Trace Elements in Milk of Dairy Buffaloes and Cows Reared in Mediterranean Areas
Authors: Fantuz Francesco , Todini Luca , Ferraro Stefano , Fatica Antonella , Marcantoni Fausto , Zannotti Marco , Salimei Elisabetta
Published: August 2022

Aim of this study was to evaluate the differences in Ca, P, K, Na, Mg, Zn, Fe, Cu, Mn, Se, Mo, Co, Li, B, Ti, Rb, and Sr concentrations in milk from buffaloes and cows reared in the same farm in Mediterranean areas and fed diets including the same ingredients. Individual milk samples were obtained from 32 Mediterranean buffaloes and 29 Italian Friesian cows and samples of milk, dietary ingredients and drinking water were analyzed for the investigated chemical elements by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. Data about milk element concentrations were processed by one-way analysis of variance. Buffalo milk contains higher concentrations of Ca, P, Mg, Zn, Fe, Cu, B, Ti, and Sr, and lower concentrations of K, Na, Mo, Li, and Rb compared to cow milk, whereas milk from both species contains similar concentrations of Mn, Se, and Co. The concentrations of the investigated elements in the diet were similar for both species and the differences observed between buffalo and cow milk were not dependent on environmental factors.
Gallium-Based Liquid Metal Materials for Antimicrobial Applications
Authors: Qu Chun-Chun , Liang Yu-Tong , Wang Xi-Qing , Gao Shang , He Zhi-Zhu , Sun Xu-Yang
Published: August 2022

The hazards caused by drug-resistant bacteria are rocketing along with the indiscriminate use of antibiotics. The development of new non-antibiotic antibacterial drugs is urgent. The excellent biocompatibility and diverse multifunctionalities of liquid metal have stimulated the studies of antibacterial application. Several gallium-based antimicrobial agents have been developed based on the mechanism that gallium (a type of liquid metal) ions disorder the normal metabolism of iron ions. Other emerging strategies, such as physical sterilization by directly using LM microparticles to destroy the biofilm of bacteria or thermal destruction via infrared laser irradiation, are gaining increasing attention. Different from traditional antibacterial agents of gallium compounds, the pronounced property of gallium-based liquid metal materials would bring innovation to the antibacterial field. Here, LM-based antimicrobial mechanisms, including iron metabolism disorder, production of reactive oxygen species, thermal injury, and mechanical destruction, are highlighted. Antimicrobial applications of LM-based materials are summarized and divided into five categories, including liquid metal motors, antibacterial fabrics, magnetic field-responsive microparticles, liquid metal films, and liquid metal polymer composites. In addition, future opportunities and challenges towards the development and application of LM-based antimicrobial materials are presented.