bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of obesity with osteoporotic fracture risk in individuals with bone metabolism-related conditions: a cross sectional analysis
Authors: Yang Guijun , Jiang Hejun , Xie Dan , Yuan Shuhua , Wu Jinhong , Zhang Jing , Zhang Lei , Yuan Jiajun , Lin Jilei , Chen Jiande , Yin Yong
Published: August 2024

Introduction

This study aimed to investigate the individual and composite associations of different indices of obesity on osteoporotic fractures at three different sites among individuals affected by conditions influencing bone metabolism.

Methods

Participants were included from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), a national cross-sectional survey. BMI and WC were used separately and in combination to evaluate the presence of obesity. Obesity was defined as BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2, WC ≥ 88 cm in females, and WC ≥ 102 cm in males. Associations between obesity and osteoporotic fractures were assessed using multivariable logistic regression and OR curves. Associations modified by age, sex, race, and alcohol consumption were also evaluated.

Results

A total of 5377 participants were included in this study. In multivariable logistic regression analyses, we found that BMI, WC, BMI defining obesity, and WC defining obesity were negatively associated with hip fracture (all p < 0.05). However, harmful associations between WC and BMI defining obesity and spine fracture were found (all p < 0.05). OR curves revealed that BMI and WC had a linear relationship with hip and spine fractures (all P for non-linearity >0.05). Further analyses showed that the highest WC quartile was harmfully associated with a higher risk of spine fractures (p < 0.05). Obese participants diagnosed by both BMI and WC were less likely to have hip fractures but more likely to have spine fractures (all P for trend <0.05). A significant interaction between age (Ref: age < 50 years) and BMI and WC was detected for hip fractures (all P for interaction <0.05).

Discussion

In people with conditions influencing bone metabolism, obesity diagnosed by BMI and WC was associated with a lower risk of hip fracture, while obesity diagnosed by BMI and the highest WC quartile were associated with a higher risk of spine fracture.
Pharmacological targets of SGLT2 inhibition on prostate cancer mediated by circulating metabolites: a drug-target Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Lin Yilong , Zhang Yue , Wang Songsong , Cao Lin , Zhao Ruidan , Ma Xilai , Yang Qiaolu , Zhang Liyi , Yang Qingmo
Published: August 2024

Background

The relationship between sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors and prostate cancer is still unknown. Although these inhibitors can influence tumor glycolysis, the underlying mechanism requires further exploration.

Methods

A two-sample two-step MR was used to determine 1) causal effects of SGLT2 inhibition on prostate cancer; 2) causal effects of 1,400 circulating metabolites or metabolite ratios on prostate cancer; and 3) mediation effects of these circulating metabolites. Genetic proxies for SGLT2 inhibition were identified as variants in the SLC5A2 gene and glycated hemoglobin level (HbA1c). Additionally, positive control analysis on type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) was conducted to test the selection of genetic proxies. Phenome Wide Association Study (PheWAS) and MR-PheWAS analysis were used to explore potential treatable diseases and adverse outcomes of SGLT2 inhibitors.

Results

Genetically predicted SGLT2 inhibition (per 1 SD decrement in HbA1c) was associated with reduced risk of T2DM [odds ratio (OR) = 0.66 (95% CI 0.53, 0.82), P = 1.57 × 10−4]; prostate cancer [0.34 (0.23, 0.49), P = 2.21 × 10−8] and prostate-specific antigen [0.26 (0.08, 0.81), P = 2.07 × 10−2]. The effect of SGLT2 inhibition on prostate cancer was mediated by uridine level, with a mediated proportion of 9.34% of the total effect. In MR-PheWAS, 65 traits were found to be associated with SLGT2 inhibitors (P < 1.78 × 10−5), and among them, 13 were related to diabetes.

Conclusion

Our study suggested that SGLT2 inhibition could lower prostate cancer risk through uridine mediation. More mechanistic and clinical research is necessary to explore how uridine mediates the link between SGLT2 inhibition and prostate cancer.
Auto-luminescence in seedlings: possible indicators for the gravimetric tide?
Authors: Gallep Cristiano de Mello
Published: August 2024

Germinating seedlings emit light in the visible range spontaneously, and these emissions are related to metabolism and reactive-oxygen species (ROS) processes. Several series of germination tests had such biological auto-luminescence (BAL) recorded in controlled conditions, fostering applications for the non-invasive, real-time evaluation of a seedling’s germinability and vigor when submitted to chemical and/or physical perturbations. However, long-term analysis of the BAL time-series of control samples conducted in different locations around the globe reveals that their BAL signals (and thus their metabolism) appear to follow the local gravimetric tide (g-tide) time profile. This indicates that the small daily and monthly variations in gravity acceleration due to the relative positioning of the Sun and Moon with respect to the Earth’s surface influence these signals. The gravimetric tide is a natural phenomenon that affects all things, fluid or solid, and is an uncontrollable variable in normal laboratory settings on Earth’s crust. All things on Earth have evolved under these pervasive cycles, with periods ranging from ∼12.2 h up to 28 d, which correspond to the Moon cycle. Tide-like cycles occur in living beings of different types, from the simplest bacteria to the most complex human beings, and we speculate that water availability at the molecular level could be a significant physical factor in modulating bio-activity by enabling protein folding and all metabolic pathways that require a synchronized organization to adapt to external environmental conditions. In this study, we summarize published results of a seedling’s BAL with cycle patterns resembling the g-tide in Limeira/BR, Prague/CZ, Leiden/NL, and Hamamatsu/JP and discuss the possible implications of this phenomenon for chronobiological studies.
Repeated seizure-induced brainstem neuroinflammation contributes to post-ictal ventilatory control dysfunction
Authors: Osmani Wasif A. , Gallo Alexander , Tabor Madeline , Eilbes Melissa , Cook-Snyder Denise R. , Hodges Matthew R.
Published: August 2024

Patients with epilepsy face heightened risk of post-ictal cardiorespiratory suppression and sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP). Studies have shown that neuroinflammation, mediated by the activation of microglia and astrocytes, may be a cause or consequence of seizure disorders. Kcnj16 (Kir5.1) knockout rats (SSkcnj16−/−) are susceptible to repeated audiogenic seizures and recapitulate features of human SUDEP, including post-ictal ventilatory suppression, which worsens with repeated seizures and seizure-induced mortality. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that repeated seizures cause neuroinflammation within key brainstem regions that contribute to the control of breathing. Audiogenic seizures were elicited once/day for up to 10 days in groups of adult male SSkcnj16−/− rats, from which frozen brainstem biopsies of the pre-Bötzinger complex/nucleus ambiguus (preBötC/NA), Bötzinger complex (BötC), and raphe magnus (RMg) regions were subjected to a cytokine array. Several cytokines/chemokines, including IL-1α and IL-1ß, were increased selectively in preBötC/NA after 3 or 5 days of seizures with fewer changes in other regions tested. In additional groups of male SSkcnj16−/− rats that underwent repeated seizures, we quantified microglial (IBA-1+) cell counts and morphology, specifically within the preBötC/NA region, and showed increased microglial cell counts, area, and volume consistent with microglial activation. To further test the role of inflammation in physiological responses to seizures and seizure-related mortality, additional groups of SSkcnj16−/− rats were treated with anakinra (IL-1R antagonist), ketoprofen (non-selective COX inhibitor), or saline for 3 days before and up to 10 days of seizures (1/day), and breathing was measured before, during, and after each seizure. Remarkably, IL-1R antagonism mitigated changes in post-ictal ventilatory suppression on days 7–10 but failed to prevent seizure-related mortality, whereas ketoprofen treatment exacerbated post-ictal ventilatory suppression compared to other treatment groups but prevented seizure-related mortality. These data demonstrate neuroinflammation and microglial activation within the key brainstem region of respiratory control following repeated seizures, which may functionally but differentially contribute to the pathophysiological consequences of repeated seizures.
Effect of offline bullying on online unethical behavior among college students: the mediating roles of relative deprivation and anger rumination
Authors: Lin Ying , Tang Zhiwen , Xing Qiang
Published: August 2024

This research delves into the correlation between offline bullying and online unethical behavior among college students; and examines the potential mediating influences of anger rumination and perceived relative deprivation. The findings suggest that anger rumination, perceived relative deprivation, offline bullying, and online unethical behavior exhibit significant positive correlations with each other. Offline bullying is a strong predictor of online unethical behavior among college students, with the dual mediating effects of perceived relative deprivation and anger rumination on the relationship between offline bullying and online unethical behavior. This suggests that offline bullying directly influences college students' online unethical behavior and also influences it indirectly through anger rumination and perceived relative deprivation.
Longitudinal association of adverse childhood experiences with cognitive function trajectories among middle-aged and older adults: group-based trajectory modeling
Authors: He Xingyue , Yang Hui
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) impact cognitive function, but the relationship remains unclear. We aim to identify cognitive function trajectories and scrutinize the correlation between ACEs and cognitive function.

Methods

To identify cognitive trajectories, we employed a group-based trajectory model, and influential factors were determined using multinomial unordered logistic regression analysis.

Results

Three cognitive decline subgroups emerged: low-start decline, high-start stability, and mid-start decline. There is no dose-response relationship between cumulative adverse childhood experiences and cognitive function. The high-start stability group had specific residence and education traits, while sibling death affected them. The mid-start decline group was vulnerable to parental death, physical abuse, and domestic violence. The low-start decline group should consider age structure and childhood friendships.

Conclusions

No dose-response association between cumulative ACEs and cognitive decline. Still, specific ACE metrics are correlated with cognitive trajectories. We can incorporate patients’ ACEs into cognitive function assessments for early risk factor identification and tailored interventions. Moreover, recognizing the influence of early-life experiences on cognitive function, we can advocate for nurturing positive family and societal environments to optimize cognitive function.
Burnout among Polish paramedics: insights from the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory
Authors: Kosydar-Bochenek Justyna , Religa Dorota , Iwanicka Kamila , Szczupak Mateusz , Krupa-Nurcek Sabina
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Emergency medical services rely heavily on paramedics who, as frontline responders, face unique stressors that can potentially lead to burnout. This pilot study utilizes the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory (OLBI) to assess burnout levels among Polish paramedics. The aim is to contribute to the understanding of burnout in this specific professional context and identify key factors influencing burnout dimensions. Future research will build on these preliminary findings.

Materials and methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted from March 01 to April 30, 2023, utilizing an online survey accessible to Polish paramedics. The OLBI, a validated tool, was employed to measure burnout, focusing on two dimensions: exhaustion and withdrawal of involvement.

Results

Among the 147 participating paramedics, the majority were male (65.99%). Paramedics exhibited burnout symptoms across both dimensions measured by The Oldenburg Burnout Inventory scale (OLBI), with an average level for lack of commitment recorded at 20.09, an average level for exhaustion at 20.60. The study revealed that 41.5% of paramedics experienced low burnout, 44.9% reported moderate burnout, and 13.6% faced high burnout risks. Analysis showed that women experienced significantly higher levels of exhaustion compared to men (p = 0.01).

Conclusion

This pilot study provides valuable initial insights into burnout among Polish paramedics. The OLBI’s two-factor structure, evaluating exhaustion and disengagement, proved reliable and valid in this context. The prevalence of burnout, with over 60% of paramedics experiencing moderate to high levels, highlights the urgency of addressing burnout in this profession. Future research will be essential to explore the underlying causes and develop targeted interventions.

Practical implications

Understanding the factors contributing to burnout among paramedics is crucial for developing targeted interventions. Strategies should focus on stress management training, organizational support, and well-being initiatives. Addressing gender-specific differences in burnout experiences is essential for tailoring interventions effectively. Proactive psychological support mechanisms and optimized working conditions can enhance paramedics’ overall well-being, ensuring their continued effectiveness in providing emergency medical services.
ARISGAN: Extreme super-resolution of arctic surface imagery using generative adversarial networks
Authors: Au Christian , Tsamados Michel , Manescu Petru , Takao So
Published: August 2024

Introduction: This research explores the application of generative artificial intelligence, specifically the novel ARISGAN framework, for generating high-resolution synthetic satellite imagery in the challenging arctic environment. Realistic and high-resolution surface imagery in the Arctic is crucial for applications ranging from satellite retrieval systems to the wellbeing and safety of Inuit populations relying on detailed surface observations.

Methods: The ARISGAN framework was designed by combining dense block, multireceptive field, and Pix2Pix architecture. This innovative combination aims to address the need for high-quality imagery and improve upon existing state-of-the-art models. Various tasks and metrics were employed to evaluate the performance of ARISGAN, with particular attention to land-based and sea ice-based imagery.

Results: The results demonstrate that the ARISGAN framework surpasses existing state-of-the-art models across diverse tasks and metrics. Specifically, land-based imagery super-resolution exhibits superior metrics compared to sea ice-based imagery when evaluated across multiple models. These findings confirm the ARISGAN framework’s effectiveness in generating perceptually valid high-resolution arctic surface imagery.

Discussion: This study contributes to the advancement of Earth Observation in polar regions by introducing a framework that combines advanced image processing techniques with a well-designed architecture. The ARISGAN framework’s ability to outperform existing models underscores its potential. Identified limitations include challenges in temporal synchronicity, multi-spectral image analysis, preprocessing, and quality metrics. The discussion also highlights potential avenues for future research, encouraging further refinement of the ARISGAN framework to enhance the quality and availability of high-resolution satellite imagery in the Arctic.
Modification of the turbulence properties at the bow shock: statistical results
Authors: Rakhmanova Liudmila , Khokhlachev Alexander , Riazantseva Maria , Yermolaev Yuri , Zastenker Georgy
Published: August 2024

Turbulent solar wind is known to be a main driver of the processes inside the magnetosphere, including geomagnetic storms and substorms. Experimental studies of the last decade demonstrate additional ways of interplanetary plasma transport to the magnetosphere, including small-scale processes in the magnetosphere boundary layers. This fact implies that properties of the solar wind turbulence can affect the geomagnetic activity. However, in front of the magnetosphere are a bow shock and a magnetosheath region which contribute to the changes in the properties of the solar wind turbulence and may result in destructions of the association between solar wind turbulence and the magnetosphere. The present study provides the statistics of two-point simultaneous measurements of the turbulence properties in the solar wind and the magnetosheath based on Wind and THEMIS spacecraft data. Changes in the turbulence properties are analyzed for different background conditions. Solar wind bulk speed and temperature are shown to be the main factors that influence the modification of turbulence at the quasi-perpendicular bow shock at frequencies higher than the break frequency (ion transition range). Inside the magnetosheath, significant steepening of spectra occurs with an increase in temperature anisotropy without a connection to the upstream spectrum scaling that underlines the crucial role of the instabilities in turbulence properties behind the bow shock.
Improvement effects of tapinarof on the skin barrier function in Japanese patients with atopic dermatitis
Authors: Igarashi Atsuyuki , Tsuji Gaku , Murata Ryusei , Fukasawa Shuichi , Yamane Satoshi
Published: August 2024

Background: Tapinarof is a nonsteroidal, topical, aryl hydrocarbon receptor agonist. Tapinarof has been shown to be efficacious and have acceptable safety profile in the treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD).

Objective: We sought to evaluate the improvement effect of tapinarof on skin barrier function in patients with AD.

Methods: This was an open-label, uncontrolled, single-center study. Japanese patients aged ≥20 years with AD (N = 30) were included in this study. Patients applied tapinarof cream 1% once daily to the target areas on the volar forearm for 8 weeks. The primary endpoints were changes from baseline in stratum corneum hydration (SCH) and transepidermal water loss (TEWL) at the target affected area at week 8.

Results: The mean SCH value at the target affected area was 13.656 AU at baseline, 16.904 AU at week 4, and 16.423 AU at week 8. The SCH at the target affected area significantly increased from baseline to week 8, with a mean change of 2.826 AU (p = 0.0433). The mean TEWL value at the target affected area was 17.35 g/m2/hr at baseline, 10.01 g/m2/hr at week 4, and 9.52 g/m2/hr at week 8. The TEWL at the target affected area significantly decreased from baseline to week 8, with a mean change of −8.03 g/m2/hr (p < 0.0001). Clinical signs of AD at the target affected area were improved over time. No serious, severe, or treatment-related AEs were reported.

Conclusion: Treatment with tapinarof led to an increase in SCH and a decrease in TEWL in patients with AD, indicating the potential improvement effect of tapinarof on skin barrier function.
Optimization of Gene Selection for Cancer Classification in High-Dimensional Data Using an Improved African Vultures Algorithm
Authors: Gafar Mona G. , Abohany Amr A. , Elkhouli Ahmed E. , El-Mageed Amr A. Abd
Published: August 2024

This study presents a novel method, termed RBAVO-DE (Relief Binary African Vultures Optimization based on Differential Evolution), aimed at addressing the Gene Selection (GS) challenge in high-dimensional RNA-Seq data, specifically the rnaseqv2 lluminaHiSeq rnaseqv2 un edu Level 3 RSEM genes normalized dataset, which contains over 20,000 genes. RNA Sequencing (RNA-Seq) is a transformative approach that enables the comprehensive quantification and characterization of gene expressions, surpassing the capabilities of micro-array technologies by offering a more detailed view of RNA-Seq gene expression data. Quantitative gene expression analysis can be pivotal in identifying genes that differentiate normal from malignant tissues. However, managing these high-dimensional dense matrix data presents significant challenges. The RBAVO-DE algorithm is designed to meticulously select the most informative genes from a dataset comprising more than 20,000 genes and assess their relevance across twenty-two cancer datasets. To determine the effectiveness of the selected genes, this study employs the Support Vector Machine (SVM) and k-Nearest Neighbor (k-NN) classifiers. Compared to binary versions of widely recognized meta-heuristic algorithms, RBAVO-DE demonstrates superior performance. According to Wilcoxon’s rank-sum test, with a 5% significance level, RBAVO-DE achieves up to 100% classification accuracy and reduces the feature size by up to 98% in most of the twenty-two cancer datasets examined. This advancement underscores the potential of RBAVO-DE to enhance the precision of gene selection for cancer research, thereby facilitating more accurate and efficient identification of key genetic markers.
On Developing a Machine Learning-Based Approach for the Automatic Characterization of Behavioral Phenotypes for Dairy Cows Relevant to Thermotolerance
Authors: Inadagbo Oluwatosin , Makowski Genevieve , Ahmed Ahmed Abdelmoamen , Daigle Courtney
Published: August 2024

The United States is predicted to experience an annual decline in milk production due to heat stress of 1.4 and 1.9 kg/day by the 2050s and 2080s, with economic losses of USD 1.7 billion and USD 2.2 billion, respectively, despite current cooling efforts implemented by the dairy industry. The ability of cattle to withstand heat (i.e., thermotolerance) can be influenced by physiological and behavioral factors, even though the factors contributing to thermoregulation are heritable, and cows vary in their behavioral repertoire. The current methods to gauge cow behaviors are lacking in precision and scalability. This paper presents an approach leveraging various machine learning (ML) (e.g., CNN and YOLOv8) and computer vision (e.g., Video Processing and Annotation) techniques aimed at quantifying key behavioral indicators, specifically drinking frequency and brush use- behaviors. These behaviors, while challenging to quantify using traditional methods, offer profound insights into the autonomic nervous system function and an individual cow’s coping mechanisms under heat stress. The developed approach provides an opportunity to quantify these difficult-to-measure drinking and brush use behaviors of dairy cows milked in a robotic milking system. This approach will open up a better opportunity for ranchers to make informed decisions that could mitigate the adverse effects of heat stress. It will also expedite data collection regarding dairy cow behavioral phenotypes. Finally, the developed system is evaluated using different performance metrics, including classification accuracy. It is found that the YoloV8 and CNN models achieved a classification accuracy of 93% and 96% for object detection and classification, respectively.
Subsoiler Tool with Bio-Inspired Attack Edge for Reducing Draft Force during Soil Tillage
Authors: Garibaldi-Márquez Francisco , Martínez-Reyes Ernesto , Morales-Morales Cornelio , Ramos-Cantú Lenin , Castro-Bello Mirna , González-Lorence Armida
Published: August 2024

To alleviate soil compaction, subsoiling practices using subsoiler implements are commonly implemented. However, subsoiler bodies are subjected to great draft forces because they work deep in the soil. Therefore, to contribute to draft force reduction, in this work, a bio-inspired attack edge for a subsoiler body based on the internal and external contour lines of the claws of the Mexican ground squirrel (Spermophilus mexicanus) is proposed. As a first step, computational fluid dynamic (CFD) modeling was used to select the best bionic subsoiler (BS) according to the draft force requirements. Then, the BS was fabricated and field-evaluated, and its real draft force during tillage was contrasted with those of a curve subsoiler (CS) and a straight subsoiler (SS). The field evaluation demonstrated that the BS demands, on average, 12.37% and 22.25% less draft force than the CS and SS, respectively. Additionally, the BS was better at entering the soil since its mean tillage depths were 24.86% and 5.73% higher than those of the SS and CS geometries, respectively. Therefore, it was found that modeling the attacking edge of a subsoiler body after the Mexican ground squirrel clearly reduced the draft force during tillage.
Comparison of Mango (Mangifera indica) Dehydration Technologies: A Systematic Review
Authors: López Luna C. , Hincapié-Llanos Gustavo Adolfo
Published: August 2024

The convective hot-air drying technology can cause physicochemical, nutritional, and organoleptic losses in the mango (Mangifera indica). The present Systematic Review was carried out with the objective of comparing mango dehydration technologies to identify the effects on the physicochemical, nutritional, and organoleptic properties of the fruit. Through a review of published scientific and conference papers in the Scopus database, adjusted to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) methodology, a total of 134 documents dated between 2000 and December 6 of 2022 were obtained; 76 of these documents were finally included in the bibliographic and theoretical analysis. Selection parameters emphasizing the relationship between the articles and the research topic, evidenced by including at least one of three dehydration technologies and the fruit of interest with an experimental or theoretical approach to the dehydration subject; review articles and surveys were excluded. Correlation graphs of bibliographic variables were made using the data mining software VantagePoint (version 15.1), which was graphically restructured in Microsoft Excel with the support of statistical analysis. Of the resulting articles, it was found that the countries with authors who participated most in scientific production like India, Brazil, Colombia, the United States, and Thailand, were those related to mango production or importation. Furthermore, the freeze-drying technology allows operating at lower temperatures than convective hot-air drying, contributing to the preservation of ascorbic acid, among other compounds. The refractance window has the shortest operation time to obtain moisture values between 10 and 20%. The dehydrated samples using the refractance window are smooth, homogeneous, non-porous, and comparable to the color obtained with freeze-drying, which is acceptable for industrial applications.
Optimizing Curriculum Vitae Concordance: A Comparative Examination of Classical Machine Learning Algorithms and Large Language Model Architectures
Authors: Maree Mohammed , Shehada Wala’a
Published: August 2024

Digital recruitment systems have revolutionized the hiring paradigm, imparting exceptional efficiencies and extending the reach for both employers and job seekers. This investigation scrutinized the efficacy of classical machine learning methodologies alongside advanced large language models (LLMs) in aligning resumes with job categories. Traditional matching techniques, such as Logistic Regression, Decision Trees, Naïve Bayes, and Support Vector Machines, are constrained by the necessity of manual feature extraction, limited feature representation, and performance degradation, particularly as dataset size escalates, rendering them less suitable for large-scale applications. Conversely, LLMs such as GPT-4, GPT-3, and LLAMA adeptly process unstructured textual content, capturing nuanced language and context with greater precision. We evaluated these methodologies utilizing two datasets comprising resumes and job descriptions to ascertain their accuracy, efficiency, and scalability. Our results revealed that while conventional models excel at processing structured data, LLMs significantly enhance the interpretation and matching of intricate textual information. This study highlights the transformative potential of LLMs in recruitment, offering insights into their application and future research avenues.
Pathogenicity of Duck Adenovirus Type 3 in Chickens
Authors: Zhang Xiwen , Xu Bin , Zhou Huiqin , Zhou Xiang , Wang Qingfeng , Sun Jiayu , Liu Kewei , Zha Lisha , Li Jinchun , Dai Yin , Chen Fangfang
Published: August 2024

Duck adenovirus Type 3 (DAdV-3) severely affects the health of ducks; however, its pathogenicity in chickens remains unknown. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the pathogenicity and major pathological changes caused by DAdV-3 in chickens. Viral DNA was extracted from the liver of the Muscovy duck, and the fiber-2 and hexon fragments of DAdV-3 were amplified through polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The evolutionary tree revealed that the isolated virus belonged to DAdV-3, and it was named HE-AN-2022. The mortality rate of chicks that received inoculation with DAdV-3 subcutaneously via the neck was 100%, while the mortality rate for eye–nose drop inoculation was correlated with the numbers of infection, with 26.7% of chicks dying as a result of exposure to multiple infections. The main symptoms exhibited prior to death were hepatitis–hydropericardium syndrome (HHS), ulceration of the glandular stomach, and a swollen bursa with petechial hemorrhages. A histopathological examination revealed swelling, necrosis, lymphocyte infiltration, and basophilic inclusion bodies in multiple organs. Meanwhile, the results of quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) demonstrated that DAdV-3 could affect most of the organs in chickens, with the gizzard, glandular stomach, bursa, spleen, and liver being the most susceptible to infection. The surviving chicks had extremely high antibody levels. After the chickens were infected with DAdV-3 derived from Muscovy ducks, no amino acid mutation was observed in the major mutation regions of the virus, which were ORF19B, ORF66, and ORF67. On the basis of our findings, we concluded that DAdV-3 infection is possible in chickens, and that it causes classic HHS with ulceration of the glandular stomach and a swollen bursa with petechial hemorrhages, leading to high mortality in chickens. The major variation domains did not change in Muscovy ducks or in chickens after infection. This is the first study to report DAdV-3 in chickens, providing a new basis for preventing and controlling this virus.
Perioperative Analgesic and Sedative Effects of Cannabidiol in Cats Undergoing Ovariohysterectomy
Authors: Zanelli Gustavo Ricci , Vieira Gabriela Brambilo Menegasso , Souza Rafaela Vitória Marchini , Aguiar Antonio José de Araújo , Cassu Renata Navarro
Published: August 2024

The aim of this study was to evaluate the perioperative analgesic and sedative effects of oral CBD in cats undergoing ovariohysterectomy. Twenty-two cats were assigned to receive either oral cannabidiol oil (2 mg/kg, CBD group, n = 12) or placebo oil (0.1 mL/kg, Placebo group, n = 10) 60 min before the premedication. The anesthetic protocol included dexmedetomidine/meperidine, propofol, and isoflurane. Intravenous fentanyl was given to control cardiovascular responses to surgical stimulation. Pain was assessed at 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 6 and 8 h post-extubation using the UNESP–Botucatu multidimensional composite pain scale and the Glasgow feline composite-measure pain scale. Sedation scores were assessed at the same timepoints and at 15 min after the premedication. Morphine was administered as rescue analgesia. Higher sedation scores were recorded in the CBD group at 15 min after premedication (p = 0.041). Intraoperatively, more cats required fentanyl in the Placebo group than in CBD group (p = 0.028). The pain scores did not differ between groups, except at 0.5 h post-extubation when lower scores were detected in the CBD group (p = 0.003–0.005). Morphine was required in 100% of the animals in both groups. CBD increased preoperative sedation and decreased intraoperative analgesic requirements, with minimal evidence of postoperative analgesic benefits over the placebo.
Clostridium butyricum Prevents Diarrhea Incidence in Weaned Piglets Induced by Escherichia coli K88 through Rectal Bacteria–Host Metabolic Cross-Talk
Authors: Liang Jing , Wang Sihu , Kou Shasha , Chen Cheng , Zhang Wenju , Nie Cunxi
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Clostridium butyricum (C. butyricum) on the prevention of the diarrhea rates and growth performances of weaned piglets induced by Escherichia coli K88 (E. coli K88). Twenty-four weaned piglets (6.92 ± 0.11 kg) were randomly assigned to one of three treatment groups for a period of 21 days. Each group consisted of eight pigs, with each pig being housed in an individual pen. Group I received the control diet along with normal saline, Group II received the control diet along with E. coli K88, and Group III received the control diet supplemented with 5 × 108 CFU/kg of C. butyricum and E. coli K88. We examined alterations in rectal microbiota and metabolites, analyzed the incidence of diarrhea, and investigated the interactions between microbiota and metabolites through the application of Illumina MiSeq sequencing and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry. The results showed that, from days 14 to 21, the diarrhea incidence in Group III decreased significantly by 83.29% compared to Group II (p < 0.05). Over the entire experimental duration, the average daily feed intake of Group III decreased significantly by 11.13% compared to Group I (p < 0.05), while the diarrhea incidence in Group III decreased by 71.46% compared to Group II (p < 0.05). The predominant microbial flora in the rectum consisted of Firmicutes (57.32%), Bacteroidetes (41.03%), and Proteobacteria (0.66%). Administering E. coli K88 orally can elevate the relative abundance of Megasphaera (p < 0.05). Conversely, the supplementation of C. butyricum in the diet reduced the relative abundance of Megasphaera (p < 0.05), while increasing the relative abundance of unclassified_f_Lachnospiraceae (p < 0.05). Rectal metabolomics analysis revealed that supplementing C. butyricum in the feed significantly altered the amino acids and fatty acids of the piglets infected with E. coli K88 (p < 0.05). The correlation analysis showed that the occurrence of diarrhea was inversely related to adipic acid (p < 0.05) and positively associated with (5-hydroxyindol-3-YL) acetic acid and L-aspartic acid (p < 0.05). Prevotella_1 exhibited a negative correlation with octadecanoic acid (p < 0.05). Prevotellaceae_UCG-005 showed a negative correlation with (5-hydroxyindol-3-YL) acetic acid (p < 0.05). The findings from this research study aid in probiotic development and the enhancement of healthy growth in weaned piglets.
Unveiling the Potential of Aloe vera Gel Supplementation in a Cooling Extender: A Breakthrough in Enhancing Rooster Sperm Quality and Fertility Ability
Authors: Pimpa Jutarat , Authaida Supakorn , Boonkum Wuttigrai , Rerkyusuke Sarinya , Janta Chalinee , Chankitisakul Vibuntita
Published: August 2024

The cooling of semen storage at 5 °C from a Thai native rooster (Pradu Hang Dum), supplemented with herbs possessing antioxidant properties, provided limited research. This study was conducted to evaluate the efficiency of Aloe vera (AV) gel supplementation at various levels on the quality of cooled semen and subsequent fertility after artificial insemination. Sixty-four chickens had semen pooled, diluted, and supplemented with different levels of AV gel (0% as control, 0.25%, 0.50%, 1.0%, 2.5%, 5.0%, 10%, and 20%), and then stored for 72 h. In Experiment 1, semen quality, malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and pH values were assessed at 0, 24, 48, and 72 h after storage. Experiment 2 assessed fertility potential using the most effective cooled storage semen from Experiment 1. Results showed a decrease in semen quality with prolonged storage time (p < 0.001). The highest semen quality was observed in the group supplemented with 1.0% AV gel (p < 0.001), whereas the lowest was noted in the 20% AV gel group (p < 0.001). Furthermore, the 1.0% AV gel group exhibited the highest semen quality at 24, 48, and 72 h of storage. The evaluation of fertility and hatchability rates revealed a statistically significant improvement in fertility potential (p < 0.05) in the group supplemented with 1.0% AV gel. In summary, this study represents the first investigation of stored Thai native rooster semen using a semen extender supplemented with Aloe vera gel at 5 °C, demonstrating its efficacy for storage up to 72 h. The addition of 1% AV gel was recommended as an antioxidant supplementation during the semen storage process at 5 °C to enhance semen quality and fertility rates.
Ecology and Management of a Large Outbreak of Avian Botulism in Wild Waterbirds in Northeastern Italy (2019–2022)
Authors: Volponi Stefano , De Marco Maria Alessandra , Benigno Roberta , Savorelli Enea , Frasnelli Matteo , Fiorentini Laura , Tosi Giovanni , Bardasi Lia , Toschi Elena , Taddei Roberta , Cocchi Roberto
Published: August 2024

Avian botulism is a paralytic disease due to the ingestion of botulinum neurotoxins (BoNT) produced by anaerobic, sporigenic bacteria (notably, Clostridium botulinum). Wild waterbirds worldwide are affected with variable recurrence and severity, and organic material decaying in wetland habitats may constitute a suitable substrate for the replication of clostridia strains producing BoNT in conditions of high temperatures and the absence of oxygen. Here, we describe a large outbreak of avian botulism that occurred in the Valle Mandriole protected area of northeastern Italy (VM). After the recovery in late summer of a few duck carcasses that molecularly tested positive for BoNT-producing clostridia, in October 2019, the avian botulism escalation led to a total of 2367 birds being recovered (2158 carcasses and 209 sick birds). Among these, 2365/2367 were waterbirds, with ducks accounting for 91.8% of the total (2173/2367) and green-winged teals representing 93.5% of the ducks. After the quick collection of dead and sick birds (from 4 to 11 October 2019) and the flooding of the VM wetland (from 5 to 12 October 2019), the 2019 botulism emergency apparently ended. Following two water inputs in May and July 2020, only one pooled sample obtained from 16 bird carcasses found that year in VM tested positive for clostridia type C by real-time PCR, whereas, after to the implementation of measures deterring the bird’s presence, new avian botulism cases—due to clostridia type C and C/D, according to molecular and animal-model tests of confirmation—led to the collection of 176 waterbirds (82 carcasses and 94 sick ducks) and 16 waterbirds (9 carcasses and 7 sick ducks) in the summers 2021 and 2022, respectively. In conclusion, the prevention, management, and control of the disease rely on habitat management, the quick and careful collection/removal of animal carcasses, and the regular monitoring and surveillance of live and dead birds.
Degnala in Water Buffaloes: A Review on a Neglected Disease
Authors: Lins André de Medeiros Costa , Salvarani Felipe Masiero
Published: August 2024

Degnala is one of the primary mycotoxicoses affecting buffaloes, with Fusarium spp. as the main causative agent. This disease is strongly associated with the feeding of rice straw to buffaloes and is considered endemic to regions where rice is cultivated. Cases are concentrated in winter when conditions favor fungal growth in inadequately stored straw. Degnala is characterized by necrosis and gangrene of the extremities, including the tail, lower limbs, ears, tongue, muzzle, and teats. The pelvic limbs are more affected than the thoracic limbs. A tortuous appearance of the tail is very common, and cracks or corneal loss of the hooves may occur, exposing the blades and even the bones. There is no diagnostic method for identifying the disease in animals other than clinical and epidemiological criteria, combined with fungal culture samples. There is no treatment that neutralizes the effects of the toxins; the current treatment is palliative and supportive, consisting of pentasulfate solution, anti-Degnala liquid, 2% nitroglycerin ointment, and broad-spectrum antibiotics for secondary infections. Additionally, the management of drying and proper storage of straw is essential for controlling this disease.
Challenges of Using Historical Aurora Observations for the Reconstruction of Solar Activity before the 19th Century, Especially during and near the Maunder Minimum
Authors: Stangl Martin , Foelsche Ulrich
Published: August 2024

In order to complement gaps in the surveillance of solar activity in historical times, various proxies are used to reconstruct past solar cycles and long-term maxima and minima of solar activity, the most famous being the Maunder Minimum (MM), which is usually defined to span the period between the years 1645 and 1715. We explain the problems within existing data bases and call upon trying to find the original sources of Schröder, since his aurorae catalog spans the whole MM and contradicts what has been deduced from more used compilations. We take a critical look at the proposed source-critical scheme introduced by Neuhäuser and Neuhäuser and show it to be counterproductive because it largely ignores the source situation, i.e., the scientific understanding of the reporters of times long past and their intentions. While historical sunspot and aurora reports can be useful to fine-tune our knowledge of solar activity in times before the onset of systematical surveillances, they should not be used as an index of solar activity, since they cannot be quantitatively expressed due to the non-scientific manner of the reports and ambiguous wording. Reconstructions based on cosmogenic isotopes are significantly preferable for establishing the level of solar activity in the past. The conclusions reached by this review should be regarded as a caution against expecting important conclusions to emerge from low quality data.
An Ozone Episode in the Urban Agglomerations along the Yangtze River in Jiangsu Province: Pollution Characteristics and Source Apportionment
Authors: Cai Zhe , Zhou Derong , Yu Jianqiao , Zhong Sheng , Zheng Longfei , Luo Zijun , Tang Zhiwei , Jiang Fei
Published: August 2024

A severe ozone episode occurred in cities along the Yangtze River of Jiangsu Province (UAYRJS) from 6 to 8 September 2022, with daily maximum 8-h average ozone concentrations in the range of 65.8–119 ppb, peaking in Nanjing on 7 September. We used the air quality model WRF-CMAQ-ISAM and the Lagrange trajectory model HYSPLIT to quantify the ozone contribution of each region and analyze the causes and regional transmission pathways of ozone pollution in the UAYRJS. Based on simulated emissions, we also estimated the contribution of biogenic volatile organic compounds. We found that weather has a negative impact on pollution, and ozone pollution tracks the movement of the Western Pacific Subtropical High. UAYRJS was affected by oceanic pollution, and there was a mutual influence among the area’s cities. On 6 September, the ozone in UAYRJS was mostly locally generated (50–98%); on 7 September, it was dominated by extra-regional transport (50–80%). Isoprene concentrations in UAYRJS increased by 0.03–0.1 ppb on 6 and 7 September compared with 5 September. Sensitivity testing showed that the hourly ozone concentration increased by 0.1–27.8 ppb (7.6–19.1%) under the influence of biogenic emissions. The results provide a scientific basis for future ozone control measures.
The Impact of DAXX, HJURP and CENPA Expression in Uveal Melanoma Carcinogenesis and Associations with Clinicopathological Parameters
Authors: Pergaris Alexandros , Levidou Georgia , Mandrakis Georgios , Christodoulou Maria-Ioanna , Karamouzis Michail V. , Klijanienko Jerzy , Theocharis Stamatios
Published: August 2024

Uveal melanomas (UMs) represent rare malignant tumors associated with grim prognosis for the majority of patients. DAXX (Death Domain-Associated Protein), HJURP (Holliday Junction Recognition Protein) and CENPA (Centromere Protein A) proteins are implicated in epigenetic mechanisms, now in the spotlight of cancer research to better understand the molecular background of tumorigenesis. Herein, we investigated their expression in UM tissues using immunohistochemistry and explored possible correlations with a multitude of clinicopathological and survival parameters. The Cancer Genome Atlas Program (TCGA) was used for the investigation of their mRNA levels in UM cases. Nuclear DAXX expression correlated with an advanced T-stage (p = 0.004), while cytoplasmic expression marginally with decreased disease-free survival (DFS) (p = 0.084). HJURP nuclear positivity also correlated with advanced T-status (p = 0.054), chromosome 3 loss (p = 0.042) and increased tumor size (p = 0.03). More importantly, both nuclear and cytoplasmic HJURP immunopositivity correlated with decreased overall survival (OS) (p = 0.011 and 0.072, respectively) and worse DFS (p = 0.071 and 0.019, respectively). Lastly, nuclear CENPA overexpression was correlated with presence of irido-corneal angle involvement (p = 0.015) and loss of chromosome 3 (p = 0.041). Nuclear and cytoplasmic CENPA immunopositivity associated with decreased OS (p = 0.028) and DFS (p = 0.018), respectively. HJURP and CENPA mRNA overexpression exhibited strong association with tumor epithelioid histology and was linked to worse prognosis. Our results show the compounding role of DAXX, HJURP and CENPA in UM carcinogenesis, designating them as potential biomarkers for assessing prognosis and possible targets for novel therapeutic interventions.
Evaluation of the LightCycler® PRO Instrument as a Platform for Rhesus D Typing
Authors: Polin Helene , Wenighofer Barbara , Polonyi Nina , Danzer Martin
Published: August 2024

Rapid and reliable Rhesus D typing is crucial for blood donation centers. In instances of massive blood transfusion or reduced antigen expression, DNA-based phenotype prediction becomes mandatory. Our molecular RHD typing approach involves an initial real-time PCR for the most common aberrant RHD types in our region, RHD*01W.1 (weak D type 1), RHD*01W.2 (weak D type 2), RHD*01W.3 (weak D type 3), and RHD*07.01 (DVII). For comprehensive coverage, Sanger sequencing of RHD coding regions is performed in the case of PCR target-negative results. We evaluated the specificity and accuracy of these methods using the recently launched LightCycler® PRO real-time platform. All findings demonstrated remarkable accuracy. Notably, the LightCycler® PRO instrument offers a distinct advantage in data interpretation and integration via the HL7 interface. This study underlines the importance of including advanced molecular techniques in blood typing protocols, especially in scenarios where conventional serological methods may be insufficient.