bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Two-Stage Model for Predicting Mild Cognitive Impairment to Alzheimer’s Disease Conversion
Authors: Lu Peixin , Hu Lianting , Zhang Ning , Liang Huiying , Tian Tao , Lu Long
Published: March 2022

Early detection of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), such as predicting development from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) to AD, is critical for slowing disease progression and increasing quality of life. Although deep learning is a promising technique for structural MRI-based diagnosis, the paucity of training samples limits its power, especially for three-dimensional (3D) models. To this end, we propose a two-stage model combining both transfer learning and contrastive learning that can achieve high accuracy of MRI-based early AD diagnosis even when the sample numbers are restricted. Specifically, a 3D CNN model was pretrained using publicly available medical image data to learn common medical features, and contrastive learning was further utilized to learn more specific features of MCI images. The two-stage model outperformed each benchmark method. Compared with the previous studies, we show that our model achieves superior performance in progressive MCI patients with an accuracy of 0.82 and AUC of 0.84. We further enhance the interpretability of the model by using 3D Grad-CAM, which highlights brain regions with high-predictive weights. Brain regions, including the hippocampus, temporal, and precuneus, are associated with the classification of MCI, which is supported by the various types of literature. Our model provides a novel model to avoid overfitting because of a lack of medical data and enable the early detection of AD.
Cooperation-Based Risk Assessment Prediction for Rear-End Collision Avoidance in Autonomous Lane Change Maneuvers
Authors: Son Young Seop , Kim Wonhee
Published: March 2022

In this study, we present an innovative approach to risk assessment for rear-end collision avoidance using a cooperation concept for an autonomous lane change system. A Kalman filter is designed to estimate the longitudinal acceleration and predict the relative longitudinal position, velocity, and acceleration. Risk assessment is performed using the predicted motion of the object vehicle in the target lane. The cooperation concept is proposed to improve the flexibility of the lane change. If the risk assessment for the lane change indicates collision risk, the cooperativeness of the driver of the object vehicle is determined. If the driver of the object vehicle is regarded as a cooperative driver, within the original lane, the ego vehicle moves toward the target lane in preparation for the lane change. Subsequently, as soon as the risk assessment indicates that there is no collision risk, the lane change is performed. Thus, unlike conventional methods, the autonomous lane change using the proposed risk assessment can be initiated. Furthermore, the proposed risk assessment using cooperation concept is more flexible compared with previous methods for autonomous lane change in cluttered traffic.
Strategy under Ambiguity, and a New Type of Decision Dilemma
Authors: Arend Richard J.
Published: March 2022

In this exploratory study, we challenge real decision makers to make choices in strategic games involving ambiguity, and to rationalize those choices. Such games are unique because they are not optimizable; however, the challenge such decisions represent—making choices over irreversible resource commitments in a competitive context and without complete information—is only growing in frequency in our modern business context. As such, our goal is to improve our understanding of real strategic decision making facing irreducible uncertainty, and then to identify ways to improve the outcomes. The challenge is that there are no theoretical solutions for these problems. (While such work has offered solutions, those have always involved watered-down problems—in terms of a lack of true uncertainty or a lack of true optimization). Thus, we approach the challenge from an experimental methodology as one alternative path toward improving outcomes. We do so by considering the influence of decision and decision-maker characteristics on the behaviors displayed while confronting these problems, with an eye on identifying vulnerabilities. We find that such characteristics correlate with expected behaviors, and that there exists potential room for improvements in the observed strategizing. The results of our study on the behaviors witnessed across three variants of our prototypical game—that represent increasing levels of complexity in the underlying ambiguity—have implications for theory and for practice, where one such conceptual implication involves the discovery of an entirely new form of the decision dilemma.
Revealing a Significant Latent Loss of Dry Matter in Rice Based on Accurate Measurement of Grain Growth Curve
Authors: Wang Yujia , Wu Wenfu , Wu Zidan , Zhang Na , Li Shuyao , Meng Xianmei
Published: March 2022

Against the background of increased population and resource depletion, managing food losses means conserving agricultural production resources and increasing farmer income. This paper mainly introduces the discovery and value of latent loss. In 2019, our experimental team formulated the 5T management method, which concerned the rice harvest period. Moreover, to promote the 5T management method, our team conducted relevant experiments about rice grain growth curve and found an accidental reduction in the dry matter weight of rice. To ensure the accuracy of the results of the latent rice loss in 2019, easy-to-use nuclear magnetic resonance is a non-destructive, rapid evaluation method, which is suitable for accurately determining high-moisture content and multi-variety rice. Overall, the experimental results in 2020 showed that if rice was harvested at the optimal time, the rice loss rate could be reduced by 3.5346%, which is equivalent to a yield of 235,051 tons of rice. The results are in agreement with evidence from field trials and suggest that the latent loss of dry matter caused by delayed harvest not only causes yield losses and economic losses but also increases postharvest grain loss and rice seed shattering loss. This significant factor, the optimal harvest time, in harvest period is strictly controlled to prevent the dry matter loss caused by innate knowledge and traditional management and to provide new possibilities for increasing the amount of available fertile land and generating income.
The Changes in GABA, GAD and DAO Activities, and Microbial Safety of Soaking- and High Voltage Electric Field-Treated Adzuki Bean Sprouts
Authors: Chiu Kai-Ying
Published: March 2022

The level of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in nongerminated adzuki bean seeds is low, but it increases substantially during germination and sprouting. In this study, three seed treatments, including soaking (S), high voltage electric field (HVEF), and soaking plus HVEF (SHVEF), were used to examine their effects on sprout growth, sprout GABA content, sprout glutamate decarboxylase (GAD), and diamine oxidase (DAO) activities and microbial loads on 6-day-old adzuki bean sprouts. All the treatments enhanced sprout growth, increased sprout’s GABA, and increased sprouts’ GAD and DAO activities. The examined seed treatments also significantly reduced the microbial loads of the produced 6-day-old adzuki bean sprouts. The most effective treatment that improved the morphological and biochemical traits and reduced microbial loads on produced sprouts was the SHVEF treatment. SHVEF treatment also achieved a 5-log reduction in the microbial loads of total aerobic bacterial counts, total coliform counts, and total mold counts on the produced adzuki bean sprouts. Therefore, SHVEF is effective for increasing adzuki bean sprout production. It can also be used to improve nutritional quality and provide an intervention technique against microbial contamination on produced sprouts.
Reinforcement Learning Your Way: Agent Characterization through Policy Regularization
Authors: Maree Charl , Omlin Christian
Published: March 2022

The increased complexity of state-of-the-art reinforcement learning (RL) algorithms has resulted in an opacity that inhibits explainability and understanding. This has led to the development of several post hoc explainability methods that aim to extract information from learned policies, thus aiding explainability. These methods rely on empirical observations of the policy, and thus aim to generalize a characterization of agents’ behaviour. In this study, we have instead developed a method to imbue agents’ policies with a characteristic behaviour through regularization of their objective functions. Our method guides the agents’ behaviour during learning, which results in an intrinsic characterization; it connects the learning process with model explanation. We provide a formal argument and empirical evidence for the viability of our method. In future work, we intend to employ it to develop agents that optimize individual financial customers’ investment portfolios based on their spending personalities.
Effects of Social Housing on Dairy Calf Social Bonding
Authors: Lindner Emily E. , Gingerich Katie N. , Burke Katharine C. , Doyle Samantha B. , Miller-Cushon Emily K.
Published: March 2022

Social housing for dairy calves has a range of benefits for social development, yet there is limited understanding of how social bonds form early in life. We characterized effects of early life social contact on the development of social preference for calves varying in familiarity. A total of 40 calves were tested in a social preference test at 4 weeks of age to assess the formation of social bonds and preference for their peers. Within an open-field social preference test, focal calves were presented with two stimulus calves, one ‘more familiar’ and one ‘less familiar’. We found that pair-housed calves spent more time in close proximity with either stimulus calf and had a greater preference for their pen-mate, compared to another calf reared within visual contact. Individually housed calves exhibited no preference for calves reared within visual but not physical contact compared to calves that were completely unfamiliar. Of the calves that approached both stimulus calves, individually housed calves that approached the ‘less familiar’ calf first spent less time near the ‘more familiar’ calf, whereas behavior of pair-housed calves was not affected by the first calf approached. These results suggest that physical contact is necessary for the development of social bonds in young dairy calves, and early life social housing may support the development of normal social behavior in dairy cattle.
Effect of a Diet Supplemented with Nettle (Urtica dioica L.) or Fenugreek (Trigonella Foenum-Graecum L.) on the Content of Selected Heavy Metals in Liver and Rabbit Meat
Authors: Pałka Sylwia Ewa , Drąg-Kozak Ewa , Migdał Łukasz , Kmiecik Michał
Published: March 2022

The literature on herbal additives for rabbit feed offers little information on the use of nettle and fenugreek. Both of these herbs are valuable sources of vitamins and minerals. These herbs affect the growth, health, and meat quality of rabbits. They regulate the digestive system, stimulate the appetite, have a positive effect on the functioning of the immune system, and exhibit antibacterial activity. The purpose of the present study was to determine the effect of nettle (Urtica dioica L.) leaves or fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) seeds in the feed on the content of selected heavy metals in the liver and meat of the rabbit. The rabbits were divided into three groups: group C (n = 20; 10♂ and 10♀) was fed ad libitum with a complete feed, N group (n = 20; 10♂ and 10♀) was fed a complete mixture with 1% added nettle, and group F (n = 20; 10♂ and 10♀) was fed with a complete mixture with 1% added fenugreek. The experiment lasted 7 weeks (from the 35th to the 84th day of the rabbits’ lives). All the rabbits were slaughtered on the 84th day of age, with a body weight of about 2.6 kg. The concentration of heavy metals (Zn, Cu, Ni, Mn, Fe, Pb, Cd) was determined by the atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). The additives to the feed significantly affected the content of elements in both the liver and the meat of rabbits (p < 0.05). The highest level of the heavy metals, regardless of the used diet, was recorded in the liver (p < 0.05). The meat (m. longissimus lumborum) and the liver of rabbits fed with herbal fodder contained less tested metals than in animals fed with fodder without additives (p < 0.05). Moreover, more essential metals were found in the liver of rabbits fed with fenugreek than rabbits fed with nettle. In the meat and liver of rabbits, the permissible content of cadmium and lead was not exceeded. Additionally, male livers had a significantly higher content of copper and manganese compared to female livers (p < 0.05). It is important to study the content of heavy metals in the used animal herbal feed additives and their interaction with each other, as they affect the distribution of elements in tissues and organs.
Effect of Maternal Catalase Supplementation on Reproductive Performance, Antioxidant Activity and Mineral Transport in Sows and Piglets
Authors: Guo Guanglun , Zhou Tiantian , Ren Fengyun , Sun Jingzhan , Deng Dun , Huang Xingguo , Wassie Teketay , Qazi Izhar Hyder , Wu Xin
Published: March 2022

This experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of maternal catalase (CAT) supplementation on reproductive performance, antioxidant enzyme activities, mineral transport, and mRNA expression of related genes in sows and offspring. A total of 40 pregnant sows at 95 days of gestation with similar parity (3–5 parities) and back-fat thickness were assigned randomly and equally into the control (CON) group (fed a basal diet) and CAT group (fed a basal diet supplemented with 660 mg/kg CAT; CAT activity, 280 U/g). The reproductive performance was recorded, and the placenta and blood samples of sows and neonatal piglets, as well as the jejunum and ileum samples from neonatal boars (eight replicates per group), were collected. Results showed that dietary supplementation with CAT significantly decreased the intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) rate and increased the activity of serum CAT in neonatal piglets and umbilical cords (p < 0.05). In addition, CAT supplementation tended to improve total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) levels in the maternal serum (p = 0.089) and umbilical cords of piglets (p = 0.051). The serum calcium (Ca), manganese (Mn), and zinc (Zn) of farrowing sows and Mn concentration in the umbilical cord, and serum Ca, magnesium (Mg), copper (Cu), and Mn of neonatal piglets were significantly increased (p < 0.05) in the CAT group. CAT supplementation downregulated mRNA expression of TRPV6 and CTR1 (p < 0.05), Cu/Zn SOD (p = 0.086) in the placenta and tended to increase the mRNA expression of the glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPX1) (p = 0.084), glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) (p = 0.063), and CAT (p = 0.052) genes in the ileum of piglets. These results showed that the maternal CAT supplementation improved fetal growth by decreasing the IUGR rate, and modulated antioxidant activity, as well as mineral elements in the pregnant sows and their piglets.
Genetic Characterization of Carbapenem-Resistant Klebsiella spp. from Municipal and Slaughterhouse Wastewater
Authors: Savin Mykhailo , Bierbaum Gabriele , Mutters Nico T. , Schmithausen Ricarda Maria , Kreyenschmidt Judith , García-Meniño Isidro , Schmoger Silvia , Käsbohrer Annemarie , Hammerl Jens Andre
Published: March 2022

Currently, human and veterinary medicine are threatened worldwide by an increasing resistance to carbapenems, particularly present in opportunistic Enterobacterales pathogens (e.g., Klebsiella spp.). However, there is a lack of comprehensive and comparable data on their occurrence in wastewater, as well as on the phenotypic and genotypic characteristics for various countries including Germany. Thus, this study aims to characterize carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella spp. isolated from municipal wastewater treatment plants (mWWTPs) and their receiving water bodies, as well as from wastewater and process waters from poultry and pig slaughterhouses. After isolation using selective media and determination of carbapenem (i.e., ertapenem) resistance using broth microdilution to apply epidemiological breakpoints, the selected isolates (n = 30) were subjected to WGS. The vast majority of the isolates (80.0%) originated from the mWWTPs and their receiving water bodies. In addition to ertapenem, Klebsiella spp. isolates exhibited resistance to meropenem (40.0%) and imipenem (16.7%), as well as to piperacillin-tazobactam (50.0%) and ceftolozan-tazobactam (50.0%). A high diversity of antibiotic-resistance genes (n = 68), in particular those encoding β-lactamases, was revealed. However, with the exception of blaGES-5-like, no acquired carbapenemase-resistance genes were detected. Virulence factors such as siderophores (e.g., enterobactin) and fimbriae type 1 were present in almost all isolates. A wide genetic diversity was indicated by assigning 66.7% of the isolates to 12 different sequence types (STs), including clinically relevant ones (e.g., ST16, ST252, ST219, ST268, ST307, ST789, ST873, and ST2459). Our study provides information on the occurrence of carbapenem-resistant, ESBL-producing Klebsiella spp., which is of clinical importance in wastewater and surface water in Germany. These findings indicate their possible dissemination in the environment and the potential risk of colonization and/or infection of humans, livestock and wildlife associated with exposure to contaminated water sources.
The Impact of Multiplex PCR in Diagnosing and Managing Bacterial Infections in COVID-19 Patients Self-Medicated with Antibiotics
Authors: Bogdan Iulia , Citu Cosmin , Bratosin Felix , Malita Daniel , Romosan Ioan , Gurban Camelia Vidita , Bota Adrian Vasile , Turaiche Mirela , Bratu Melania Lavinia , Pilut Ciprian Nicolae , Marincu Iosif
Published: March 2022

The multiplex PCR is a powerful and efficient tool that was widely used during the COVID-19 pandemic to diagnose SARS-CoV-2 infections and that has applications for bacterial identification, as well as determining bacterial resistance to antibiotics. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the usability of multiplex PCR, especially in patients self-medicated with antibiotics, where bacterial cultures often give false-negative results. A cross-sectional study was developed in two COVID-19 units, where 489 eligible patients were included as antibiotic takers and non-antibiotic takers. Antibiotic takers used mostly over-the-counter medication; they suffered significantly more chronic respiratory conditions and were self-medicated most often with cephalosporins (41.4%), macrolide (23.2%), and penicillin (19.7%). The disease severity in these patients was significantly higher than in non-antibiotic takers, and bacterial superinfections were the most common finding in the same group (63.6%). Antibiotic takers had longer hospital and ICU admissions, although the mortality rate was not significantly higher than in non-antibiotic takers. The most common bacteria involved in secondary infections were Staphylococcus aureus (22.2%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (27.8%), and Klebsiellaspp (25.0%). Patients self-medicating with antibiotics had significantly higher rates of multidrug resistance. The multiplex PCR test was more accurate in identifying multidrug resistance and resulted in a quicker initiation of therapeutic antibiotics compared with instances where a bacterial culture was initially performed, with an average of 26.8 h vs. 40.4 h, respectively. The hospital stay was also significantly shorter by an average of 2.5 days when PCR was used as an initial assessment tool for secondary bacterial infections. When adjusted for age, COVID-19 severity, and pulmonary disease, over-the-counter use of antibiotics represented a significant independent risk factor for a prolonged hospitalization (AOR = 1.21). Similar findings were observed for smoking status (AOR = 1.44), bacterial superinfection (AOR = 1.52), performing only a conventional bacterial culture (AOR = 1.17), and a duration of more than 48 h for bacterial sampling from the time of hospital admission (AOR = 1.36). Multiplex PCR may be a very effective method for diagnosing secondary bacterial infections in COVID-19 individuals self-medicating with antibiotics. Utilizing this strategy as an initial screen in COVID-19 patients who exhibit signs of sepsis and clinical deterioration will result in a faster recovery time and a shorter period of hospitalization.
Synergistic Antibacterial Potential of 6-Pentyl-α-pyrone Lactone and Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles against Multidrug-Resistant Enterobacterales Isolated from Urinary Tract Infections in Humans
Authors: Kotb Ahmed M. E. , Abd El-Aziz Norhan K. , Elariny Eman Y. T. , Yahya Reham , Alkhalifah Dalal Hussien M. , Ahmed Rania M.
Published: March 2022

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the most common bacterial infections in the world, which is associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. Enterobacterales species are considered the most causative agent for UTI, especially uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC). Here, we investigated the antibacterial activity of the green fungal metabolite, 6-pentyl α pyrone lactone, alone or in combination with zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) against multidrug-resistant Enterobacterales recovered from UTI. The results revealed that 57.27% of human urine samples were positive for Enterobacterales, where E. coli was the most prevalent bacterial pathogen (66.67%). Of note, 98.41% of Enterobacterales isolates were multidrug-resistant (MDR) with multiple antimicrobial resistance (MAR) indices ranged from 0.437 to 1. Fifty percent of the examined isolates were positive for the integrase gene; 60% out of them harbored class 2 integron, whereas the other 40% carried class 1 integrons. The broth microdilution assay ensured that the 6-pentyl-α-pyrone lactone had a reasonable antimicrobial effect against the examined isolates (Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of 16–32 μg/mL). However, ZnONPs showed a strong antimicrobial effect against the investigated isolates with MIC values ranging from 0.015 to 32 μg/mL. Interestingly, the MICs decreased 5–12 fold and 3–11 fold for 6-pentyl-α-pyrone lactone and ZnONPs, respectively, against examined isolates after their combination. This is the first report suggesting the use of 6-pentyl α pyrone lactone and ZnONPs combination as a promising candidate against MDR Enterobacterales recovered from UTI.
Evaluate the Effectiveness of Outpatient Parenteral Antimicrobial Therapy (OPAT) Program in Saudi Arabia: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Al Shareef Haneen J. , Al Harbi Adnan , Alatawi Yasser , Aljabri Ahmed , Al-Ghanmi Mohammed A. , Alzahrani Mohammed S. , Algarni Majed Ahmed , Khobrani Attiah , Haseeb Abdul , AlSenani Faisal , Elrggal Mahmoud E.
Published: March 2022

(1) Background: Outpatient parenteral antibiotic therapy (OPAT) is a well-established and cost-effective measure that improves the efficient use of healthcare resources and increases bed availability. Only limited published data is available to illustrate OPAT implementation and outcomes in Saudi Arabia. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of OPAT in a tertiary center in Saudi Arabia. (2) Methods: In this retrospective study, clinical charts of enrolled patients were reviewed in a tertiary care center from the initial month of November 2017 to March 2020. All admitted patients with a central line and who enrolled in the OPAT of the hospital during this study period were included. The primary outcome was the 30-days readmission rate of OPAT patients. Secondary outcomes were factors associated with OPAT failure. Descriptive analysis of the data was used to express the results. (3) Results: We enrolled 90 patients; 54 (60%) were male; the mean age was 55.16 (±17.7) years old. The mean duration of the antimicrobial treatment was 21.9 (+24.6) days. All patients completed the intended course of therapy. Ertapenem was the most frequently used antimicrobial (43%), followed by vancomycin (11.2%). Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are some of the most common bacterial infections in 25 patients (26.9%), followed by osteomyelitis in 16 patients (17.2%). Extended-spectrum beta-lactamase E.coli was the highest common isolated microorganism (44.9%), followed by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus MRSA (16.9%). The readmission to the hospital during therapy was required for 12 patients (13.3%). Shifting from hospital care to OPAT care resulted in cost savings of 18 million SAR in the overall assessment period and avoided a total of 1984 patient days of hospitalization. (4) Conclusion: The findings have shown that OPAT therapy was effective with minimum hospital readmissions and therapy complications. OPAT programs can reduce healthcare costs and should be integrated into practice.
Antimicrobial Resistance in Escherichia coli from the Broiler Farm Environment, with Detection of SHV-12-Producing Isolates
Authors: Martínez-Álvarez Sandra , Sanz Susana , Olarte Carmen , Hidalgo-Sanz Raquel , Carvalho Isabel , Fernández-Fernández Rosa , Campaña-Burguet Allelen , Latorre-Fernández Javier , Zarazaga Myriam , Torres Carmen
Published: March 2022

Antimicrobial resistance is an important One Health challenge that encompasses the human, animal, and environmental fields. A total of 111 Escherichia coli isolates previously recovered from manure (n = 57) and indoor air (n = 54) samples from a broiler farm were analyzed to determine their phenotypes and genotypes of antimicrobial resistance and integron characterization; in addition, plasmid replicon analysis and molecular typing were performed in extended-spectrum-beta-lactamase (ESBL) producer isolates. A multidrug-resistance phenotype was detected in 46.8% of the isolates, and the highest rates of resistance were found for ampicillin, trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole, and tetracycline (>40%); moreover, 15 isolates (13.5%) showed susceptibility to all tested antibiotics. None of the isolates showed imipenem and/or cefoxitin resistance. Twenty-three of the one hundred and eleven E. coli isolates (20.7%) were ESBL producers and carried the blaSHV-12 gene; one of these isolates was recovered from the air, and the remaining 22 were from manure samples. Most of ESBL-positive isolates carried the cmlA (n = 23), tet(A) (n = 19), and aac(6′)-Ib-cr (n = 11) genes. The following genetic lineages were identified among the ESBL-producing isolates (sequence type-phylogroup-clonotype): ST770-E-CH116–552 (n = 12), ST117-B2-CH45–97 (n = 4), ST68-E-CH26–382/49 (n = 3), ST68-E-CH26–49 (n = 1), and ST10992-A/B1-CH11–23/41/580 (n = 4); the latter two were detected for the first time in the poultry sector. At least two plasmid replicon types were detected in the ESBL-producing E. coli isolates, with IncF, IncF1B, IncK, and IncHI1 being the most frequently found. The following antimicrobial resistance genes were identified among the non-ESBL-producing isolates (number of isolates): blaTEM (58), aac(6′)-Ib-cr (6), qnrS (2), aac(3)-II (2), cmlA (6), tet(A)/tet(B) (22), and sul1/2/3 (51). Four different gene-cassette arrays were detected in the variable region of class 1 (dfrA1-aadA1, dfrA12-aadA2, and dfrA12-orf-aadA2-cmlA) and class 2 integrons (sat2-aadA1-orfX). This work reveals the worrying presence of antimicrobial-resistant E. coli in the broiler farm environment, with ESBL-producing isolates of SHV-12 type being extensively disseminated.
Comparative Analysis of the Antimicrobial Activity of Essential Oils and Their Formulated Microemulsions against Foodborne Pathogens and Spoilage Bacteria
Authors: Campana Raffaella , Tiboni Mattia , Maggi Filippo , Cappellacci Loredana , Cianfaglione Kevin , Morshedloo Mohammad Reza , Frangipani Emanuela , Casettari Luca
Published: March 2022

The antimicrobial activity of several essential oils (EOs) and their related microemulsions (MEs) was investigated. EOs were obtained from Cannabis sativa L. cv CS (C. sativa), Carum carvi L. (C. carvi), Crithmum maritimum L. (C. maritimum), Cuminum cyminum L. (C. cyminum), x Cupressocyparis leylandii A.B. Jacks & Dallim. (C. leylandii), Cupressus arizonica Greene (C. arizonica), Ferula assa-foetida L. (F. assa-foetida)., Ferula gummosa Boiss. (F. gummosa), Juniperus communis L. (J. communis), Juniperus x pfitzeriana (Spath) P.A. Schmidt (J. pfitzeriana), Pimpinella anisum L (P. anisum). Preliminary screening revealed that Cuminum cyminum, Crithmum maritimum, and Pimpinella anisum (10% v/v) were effective against all tested microorganisms (Escherichia coli ATCC 35218, Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 7644, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 29213, Pseudomonas fluorescens DSM 4358, and Candida albicans ATCC 10231), with growth inhibition diameter from 10 to 25 mm. These EOs were used to formulate the MEs with an average size < 50 nm and a good stability over 30 days. EOs’ antimicrobial activity was further enhanced in the MEs, with a generalized lowering of minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values. C. cyminum-ME reached, in most cases, MIC two times lower (0.312%) than the corresponding EO (0.625%) and even eight times lower against S. aureus (0.156 vs. 1.25%). A more remarkable microbicide effect was noted for C. cyminum-ME, with MBC values eight times lower (from 0.312 to 0.625%) than the corresponding EO (from 2.5 to 5%). Overall, MEs resulted in an efficient system for EOs encapsulation, enhancing solubility and lowering concentration to exert antimicrobial efficacy.
Reduced Levels of H2S in Diabetes-Associated Osteoarthritis Are Linked to Hyperglycaemia, Nrf-2/HO-1 Signalling Downregulation and Chondrocyte Dysfunction
Authors: Piñeiro-Ramil María , Burguera Elena F. , Hermida-Gómez Tamara , Caramés Beatriz , Oreiro-Villar Natividad , Meijide-Faílde Rosa , Blanco Francisco J. , Vaamonde-García Carlos
Published: March 2022

Different findings indicate that type 2 diabetes is an independent risk factor for osteoarthritis (OA). However, the mechanisms underlying the connection between both diseases remain unclear. Changes in the balance of hydrogen sulphide (H2S) are thought to play an important role in the pathogenesis of diabetes and its complications, although its role is still controversial. In this study, we examined the modulation of H2S levels in serum and chondrocytes from OA diabetic (DB) and non-diabetic (non-DB) patients and in cells under glucose stress, in order to elucidate whether impairment in H2S-mediated signalling could participate in the onset of DB-related OA. Here, we identified a reduction in H2S synthesis in the cartilage from OA-DB patients and in cells under glucose stress, which is associated with hyperglycaemia-mediated dysregulation of chondrocyte metabolism. In addition, our results indicate that H2S is an inductor of the Nrf-2/HO-1 signalling pathway in cartilage, but is also a downstream target of Nrf-2 transcriptional activity. Thereby, impairment of the H2S/Nrf-2 axis under glucose stress or DB triggers chondrocyte catabolic responses, favouring the disruption of cartilage homeostasis that characterizes OA pathology. Finally, our findings highlight the benefits of the use of exogeneous sources of H2S in the treatment of DB-OA patients, and warrant future clinical studies.
Potential Implications of Natural Antioxidants of Plant Origin on Oxidative Stability of Chicken Albumen during Storage: A Review
Authors: Obianwuna Uchechukwu Edna , Oleforuh-Okoleh Vivian U. , Wang Jing , Zhang Hai-Jun , Qi Guang-Hai , Qiu Kai , Wu Shu-Geng
Published: March 2022

Enhanced albumen quality is reflected in increased thick albumen height, albumen weight, and Haugh unit value, while the antimicrobial, antioxidant, foaming, gelling, viscosity, and elasticity attributes are retained. Improved albumen quality is of benefit to consumers and to the food and health industries. Egg quality often declines during storage because eggs are highly perishable products and are most often not consumed immediately after oviposition. This review provides insights into albumen quality in terms of changes in albumen structure during storage, the influence of storage time and temperature, and the mitigation effects of natural dietary antioxidants of plant origin. During storage, albumen undergoes various physiochemical changes: loss of moisture and gaseous products through the shell pores and breakdown of carbonic acid, which induces albumen pH increases. High albumen pH acts as a catalyst for structural changes in albumen, including degradation of the β-ovomucin subunit and O-glycosidic bonds, collapse of the ovomucin-lysozyme complex, and decline in albumen protein–protein interactions. These culminate in declined albumen quality, characterized by the loss of albumen proteins, such as ovomucin, destabilized foaming and gelling capacity, decreased antimicrobial activity, albumen liquefaction, and reduced viscosity and elasticity. These changes and rates of albumen decline are more conspicuous at ambient temperature compared to low temperatures. Thus, albumen of poor quality due to the loss of functional and biological properties cannot be harnessed as a functional food, as an ingredient in food processing industries, and for its active compounds for drug creation in the health industry. The use of refrigerators, coatings, and thermal and non-thermal treatments to preserve albumen quality during storage are limited by huge financial costs, the skilled operations required, environmental pollution, and residue and toxicity effects. Nutritional interventions, including supplementation with natural antioxidants of plant origin in the diets of laying hens, have a promising potential as natural shelf-life extenders. Since they are safe, without residue effects, the bioactive compounds could be transferred to the egg. Natural antioxidants of plant origin have been found to increase albumen radical scavenging activity, increase the total antioxidant capacity of albumen, reduce the protein carbonyl and malondialdehyde (MDA) content of albumen, and prevent oxidative damage to the magnum, thereby eliminating the transfer of toxins to the egg. These products are targeted towards attenuating oxidative species and inhibiting or slowing down the rates of lipid and protein peroxidation, thereby enhancing egg quality and extending the shelf life of albumen.
Effects of Quercitrin on PRV-Induced Secretion of Reactive Oxygen Species and Prediction of lncRNA Regulatory Targets in 3D4/2 Cells
Authors: Wang Qiuhua , Xie Xiaodong , Chen Qi , Yi Shouli , Chen Jiaji , Xiao Qi , Yu Meiling , Wei Yingyi , Hu Tingjun
Published: March 2022

Quercitrin is a kind of flavonoid that is found in many plants; it has good antioxidant activity, and can regulate oxidative stress induced by Pseudorabies virus (PRV)-infected cells. In this study, the secretion of reactive oxygen species (ROS) induced by PRV infection was detected by flow cytometry, and RNA expression profiles of the 3D4/2 cells were produced and analyzed by sequenced GO (Gene Ontology) and KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes); the sequencing results were verified by RT-qCR. The results showed that the secretion of ROS induced by PRV infection in 3D4/2 cells could be significantly decreased by quercitrin. The differentially expressed 1055 mRNA, 867 lncRNA, 99 miRNA, and 69 circRNA were detected between the control group and the PRV infection group. The differentially expressed 1202 mRNA, 785 lncRNA, 115 miRNA, and 79 circRNA were found between the PRV+ quercitrin group and the control group. The differentially expressed 357 mRNA, 69 lncRNA, 111 miRNA, and 81 circRNA were obtained between the PRV+ quercitrin group and the PRV group. The significantly differentially expressed mRNAs were mainly involved in cell metabolism, regulatory protein phosphorylation, protein phosphorylation, antioxidation, regulatory phosphorylation, and so on. Among them, the mRNAs related to antioxidant response and oxidative stress were thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP) and nitric oxide synthase 2 (NOS2). According to the network diagram of lncRNA–miRNA–mRNA, two targeted miRNA (ssc-miR-450c-3p and novel-m0400-3p) relationships with TXNIP and NOS2 were screened. This study provides a scientific foundation for further research for the function of quercitrin in anti-virus-induced oxidative stress.
Occupational Health Aspects with Special Focus on Physiological Differences between Office and Metalworkers
Authors: Tatzber Franz , Zelzer Sieglinde , Obermayer-Pietsch Barbara , Rinnerhofer Stefan , Kundi Michael , Cvirn Gerhard , Wultsch Georg , Herrmann Markus , Mangge Harald , Niedrist Tobias , Wonisch Willibald
Published: March 2022

Physical workload adversely impacts inflammation, oxidative stress and mood in heavy workers. We compared these risk parameters between metalworkers (n = 20) and office workers (n = 30), including gender differences. Blood samples were analyzed with thirty parameters to overview endocrinology, inflammation, and psychological and oxidative stress. Despite an adequate antioxidative supply, oxidative stress occurred in metalworkers, as indicated by significantly increased peroxide and homocysteine (Hcy) levels. Moreover, increased concentrations were observed in this group regarding psychological stress and diet-related parameters. Sex-specific differences were determined for physical dimensions, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), Hcy, uric acid, triglycerides, osmolality, anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) and testosterone. Age-associated differences were observed for DHEAS, glycosylated hemoglobin, adrenaline, AMH and testosterone. In male office workers, the body mass index was associated with increased LDL-HDL, cholesterol-HDL and homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). In conclusion, these results indicate increased oxidative stress and psychological stress in heavy workers independently of adequate antioxidant sustenance. The sedentary occupation of office workers, in turn, favored diseases of affluence. This might be particularly relevant for long-term occupied persons and older workers due to a hormonal shift coming along, given the risk for oxidative stress-related diseases such as cardiovascular disease, particularly in the case of males, based on their lifestyle habits.
Analytical Solution on Ground Deformation Caused by Parallel Construction of Rectangular Pipe Jacking
Authors: Wang Yazheng , Zhang Dingli , Fang Qian , Liu Xiang , Wang Jianchen
Published: March 2022

Pipe jacking has been widely used in urban underground engineering construction in recent years. Prediction of ground deformation caused by pipe jacking is particularly important for the safety of construction. With regard to the densely arranged pipes used in the pipe roof structure method, an analytical model of stratum disturbance caused by jacking of parallel rectangular pipes is proposed on the basis of Mindlin’s displacement solution and the stochastic medium theory. The influencing factors such as soil loss, additional thrust on the excavation face, friction between pipe jacking machine and soil, friction between subsequent pipes and soil, and the grouting pressure were comprehensively considered. Then, a 3D numerical simulation and a case study were conducted. The results showed consistent agreement with the analytical solution, and the proposed method can take into account the asymmetry of surface settlement curve induced by construction. A discussion of the ground deformation law shows that the proposed approach can reasonably predict the ground deformation and provide a reference for relevant pipe jacking construction.
Measurements of Operating Parameters of a Metal Hydride Compressor with a Heat Pump
Authors: Brestovič Tomáš , Jasminská Natália , Lázár Marián
Published: March 2022

The hydrogen compression that occurs in a metal hydride compressor is based on the chemical and thermal processes of hydrogen absorption and desorption into an intermetallic structure of metals. The concept presented in this article is centred on the use of an optimal metal alloy that is capable of absorbing hydrogen into its structure at a low temperature and pressure. After such an alloy is heated up, its pressure will significantly increase, and this facilitates the compression of hydrogen without it being in direct contact with the movable parts of the compressor. As a result, the safety of the compression process is increased. The hydrogen compressor contains a pair of tandem metal hydride (MH) tanks with an integrated heat exchanger. The tanks are alternately heated and cooled, so that while hydrogen is absorbed in one of the tanks it is concurrently desorbed in the other tank. The unique nature of the prototype single-stage metal hydride compressor consists in using a heat pump that facilitated a significant reduction of the consumed electric energy in the heat transport between the tandem-arranged tanks. The purpose of this investigation was to examine the possibility of integrating a heat pump as a source of heat and cold for the process of absorption- and desorption-based hydrogen compression. With the prototype MH compressor presented in this article, a compression ratio of ε = 2.0 was achieved while the tanks were operated at temperatures ranging from 12 to 55 °C. In a single cycle, the compressor worked with 166 litres of hydrogen, which was absorbed into 3.125 kg of the La0.85Ce0.15Ni5 alloy. The average heating power that was achieved on the side of the condenser that heated the MH1 tank was 362 W, and the cooling power that was achieved on the evaporator side was 300 W. The achieved value of the heat pump COP was 2.92.
Effect of Rounded and Hunched Shoulder Postures on Myotonometric Measurements of Upper Body Muscles in Sedentary Workers
Authors: Guduru Rama Krishna Reddy , Domeika Aurelijus , Domeikienė Auksė
Published: March 2022

Background: Shoulder pain is prominent among sedentary employees who make motions of the upper limbs on a regular basis. Rounded shoulder posture (RSP) and hunched shoulder posture (HSP) are the most common clinical postural misalignments. These causes the spine to bend and raise tension on the nerve roots, which has a negative impact on upper-extremity muscular strength and function. Therefore, this study was carried out to investigate the effect of RSP and HSP on the mechanical parameters of the upper body muscles in clinically asymptomatic sedentary workers. Methods: Twenty office workers with RSP, 20 with HSP, and 20 with normal shoulder posture (NSP) were matched for age, BMI, and type of job. Volunteers were split into groups based on photometric shoulder angle measurements. Mechanical properties such as muscle tone, stiffness, and elasticity of the upper trapezius, middle trapezius, posterior deltoid, and pectoralis major were assessed in sedentary postures. Results: The study revealed a significant decrease in muscle tone for the pectoralis major and a significant increase in muscle stiffness for the poster deltoid in both RSP and HSP as compared to NSP. Specifically, muscle tone decreased from 20.1 ± 4.0 to 12.4 ± 3.1 Hz (38.3%), (p ≤ 0.001) in RSP and from 20.1 ± 4.0 to 14.0 ± 4.8 Hz (30.3%), (p ≤ 0.001) in HSP. Muscle stiffness increased from 309.9 ± 70.7 to 348.15 ± 68.7 N/m (11%), (p ≤ 0.001) in RSP and from 309.9 ± 70.7 to 441.7 ± 45.9 N/m (29.8%), (p ≤ 0.001) in HSP. Conclusions: RSP and HSP have an impact on the tone, stiffness, and elasticity of upper body muscles in healthy asymptomatic sedentary workers. These postures, on a regular basis, may affect physical health and decrease workers’ productivity. In addition, it is recommended for sedentary workers to take regular breaks and attend training that could help improve their physical health.
Quantifying Total Phosphorus and Heavy Metals in Residential Septage
Authors: Iverson Guy , Humphrey Charles P. , O’Driscoll Michael , Jernigan Jordan , Serozi Brent , Sanderford Christa
Published: March 2022

Septic systems are used for wastewater treatment in rural areas. Septic tanks promote stratification of wastewater into solid (sludge and scum) and liquid layers. Pollutant concentrations in the layers of residential septic tanks may be highly variable, and thus septage pumped from tanks with different layer thicknesses may also be variable. The goal of this study was to quantify the total phosphorus (TP) and heavy metal concentrations and masses of residential septage. The solid and liquid layer thicknesses were measured in 37 septic tanks. Samples were collected from each layer for pollutant concentration analysis. The median TP concentration (10.6 mg L−1) was greatest in the sludge layer, followed by the scum (5.3 mg L−1) and liquid (1.8 mg L−1) layers. Concentrations of heavy metals were highly variable for each layer type. The masses of the TP, cadmium, copper, lead, nickel, and zinc contained median (range) values of 19.4 g (0.9–1041 g), <0.01 g (<0.01–1.99 g), 1.3 g (0.1–520 g), 1.8 g (<0.01–44.2 g), 1.3 g (<0.01–4.3 g), and 13.8 g (0.3–788 g), respectively. Since septage is typically applied on land as a soil amendment for crop growth, it is important that representative composite samples are collected to prevent excess buildup of TP and metals, which may harm yields or environmental health.
3D Printing of Tooth Impressions Based on Multi-Detector Computed Tomography Images Combined with Beam Hardening Artifact Reduction in Metal Structures
Authors: Park Yeon , Yu Seung-Man
Published: March 2022

We investigated the role of metal artifact reduction by taking 3D print impressions using 3D data of Computed Tomography (CT) images based on the algorithm applied. We manufactured a phantom of a human mandible tooth made of gypsum and nickel alloy to measure the metal artifacts. CT images were obtained by changing the phantom tube voltage and tube current. The signal intensity of the image generated by the metal artifacts before and after the iterative metal artifact reduction algorithm (iMAR) was measured. A 3D printing process was performed after converting the images, before and after iMAR application, into STL files using InVesalius version 3.1.1 by selecting the conditions that minimized the effect of the artifact. Regarding metal artifacts, the Hounsfield unit (HU) value showed low as the tube voltage increased. The iMAR-applied images acquired under the same conditions showed a significantly lower HU. The artifacts, in the form of flashes, persisted in the 3D-printed product of the image not subjected to iMAR, but were largely removed in the 3D-printed product following iMAR application. In this study, the application of iMAR and data acquired using high tube voltage eliminated a significant portion of the metal artifacts, resulting in an impression shape that was consistent with the human body.