bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deriving Snow Depth From ICESat-2 Lidar Multiple Scattering Measurements: Uncertainty Analyses
Authors: Lu Xiaomei , Hu Yongxiang , Zeng Xubin , Stamnes Snorre A. , Neuman Thomas A. , Kurtz Nathan T. , Yang Yuekui , Zhai Peng-Wang , Gao Meng , Sun Wenbo , Xu Kuanman , Liu Zhaoyan , Omar Ali H. , Baize Rosemary R. , Rogers Laura J. , Mitchell Brandon O. , Stamnes Knut , Huang Yuping , Chen Nan , Weimer Carl , Lee Jennifer , Fair Zachary
Published: April 2022

The application of diffusion theory and Monte Carlo lidar radiative transfer simulations presented in Part I of this series of study suggests that snow depth can be derived from the first-, second- and third-order moments of the lidar backscattering pathlength distribution. These methods are now applied to the satellite ICESat-2 lidar measurements over the Arctic sea ice and land surfaces of Northern Hemisphere. Over the Arctic sea ice, the ICESat-2 retrieved snow depths agree well with co-located IceBridge snow radar measured values with a root-mean-square (RMS) difference of 7.8 cm or 29.2% of the mean snow depth. The terrestrial snow depths derived from ICESat-2 show drastic spatial variation of the snowpack along ICESat-2 ground tracks over the Northern Hemisphere, which are consistent with the University of Arizona (UA) and Canadian Meteorological Centre (CMC) gridded daily snow products. The RMS difference in snow depths between ICESat-2 and UA gridded daily snow products is 14 cm, or 28% of the mean UA snow depth. To better understand these results, we also discuss the possible sources of errors in ICESat-2 derived snow depths, including surface roughness within the laser footprint, atmospheric forward scattering, solar background noise, and detector dark current. Simulation results indicate that the snow depth errors would be less than 5 cm if the standard deviation of pulse spreading due to surface roughness is within 50 cm. Our results demonstrate that the ICESat-2 lidar measurements can be used to reliably derive snow depth, which is a critical geophysical parameter for cryosphere studies including sea ice thickness estimation and also provides important constraints in the modeling of terrestrial hydrological processes.
How Leisure Involvement Affects Repurchase Intention in Fitness Clubs? The Mediating Role of Commercial Friendship
Authors: Wang Yanting , Gao Yi , Wang Fong-Jia
Published: April 2022

This study explores the relationships among leisure involvement, business or commercial friendship, satisfaction, and willingness to repurchase in customers' use of customized fitness services. This study randomly sampled and analyzed the customers of fitness clubs (N = 234) in China. The results showed that leisure involvement had a positive impact on repurchase intention and satisfaction. Moreover, the mediating effect of commercial friendship was found in the relationship between leisure involvement, repurchase intention, and satisfaction. Overall, the study contributes to the literature by exploring the interaction effects of different types of consumer leisure involvement and commercial friendships in customized fitness services models on satisfaction and repurchase intentions'.
Can Pulsed Electric Fields Treated Algal Cells Be Used as Stationary Phase in Chromatography?
Authors: Pleissner Daniel , Smetana Sergiy
Published: April 2022

Microalgae are utilized for various purposes through cell content extraction and application. Cell walls are not utilized and not studied in an extensive manner. At the same time, composition of multilayer and fibrillar structures with various chemical compositions depends on microalgae species, they present an interesting object for chromatography. However, it requires the application of novel processing technologies (such as pulsed electric fields [PEFs]), which are able to selectively permeabilize the cell walls with pores of various sizes and shapes. The current review indicates the application of potential of microalgae cell walls for separation by size exclusion, ion-exchange, and hydrophobic interaction chromatography. However, such a hypothesis should be further experimentally proven.
Percutaneous Transforaminal Full-Endoscopic Removal of Neurinoma of the Fifth Lumbar Nerve Root With Intraoperative Neuromonitoring: A Case Report
Authors: Kravtsov Maxim N. , Manukovsky Vadim A. , Mirzametov Saidmirze D. , Malysheva Olga V. , Averyanov Dmitry A. , Svistov Dmitry V.
Published: April 2022

Background

Technical achievements and surgical techniques improvement contribute to the expansion of the endoscopic spine surgery possibilities. However, today there are few reports about the use of percutaneous endoscopy in spinal tumor surgery. A case of percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic removal of the lumbar spinal nerve tumor with intraoperative neuromonitoring is presented.

Case Description

A 59-year-old female was complaining of a left shin and foot pain, weakness, and paresthesia. Preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a tumor (neurinoma) at the left L5-S1 intervertebral foramen. Transforaminal endoscopic removal of an extramedullary tumor from an 8-mm skin incision with intraoperative neuromonitoring was performed. Postoperative MRI revealed the signs of total resection of the tumor.

Conclusion

The presented case confirms that percutaneous endoscopic removal of lumbar spine intraforaminal neurinomas can be safe and effective.
Interactome of SARS-CoV-2 Modulated Host Proteins With Computationally Predicted PPIs: Insights From Translational Systems Biology Studies
Authors: Karunakaran Kalyani B. , Balakrishnan N. , Ganapathiraju Madhavi K.
Published: April 2022

Accelerated efforts to identify intervention strategies for the COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 need to be supported by deeper investigations into host invasion and response mechanisms. We constructed the neighborhood interactome network of the 332 human proteins targeted by SARS-CoV-2 proteins, augmenting it with 1,941 novel human protein-protein interactions predicted using our High-precision Protein-Protein Interaction Prediction (HiPPIP) model. Novel interactors, and the interactome as a whole, showed significant enrichment for genes differentially expressed in SARS-CoV-2-infected A549 and Calu-3 cells, postmortem lung samples of COVID-19 patients and blood samples of COVID-19 patients with severe clinical outcomes. The PPIs connected host proteins to COVID-19 blood biomarkers, ACE2 (SARS-CoV-2 entry receptor), genes differentiating SARS-CoV-2 infection from other respiratory virus infections, and SARS-CoV-targeted host proteins. Novel PPIs facilitated identification of the cilium organization functional module; we deduced the potential antiviral role of an interaction between the virus-targeted NUP98 and the cilia-associated CHMP5. Functional enrichment analyses revealed promyelocytic leukaemia bodies, midbody, cell cycle checkpoints and tristetraprolin pathway as potential viral targets. Network proximity of diabetes and hypertension associated genes to host proteins indicated a mechanistic basis for these co-morbidities in critically ill/non-surviving patients. Twenty-four drugs were identified using comparative transcriptome analysis, which include those undergoing COVID-19 clinical trials, showing broad-spectrum antiviral properties or proven activity against SARS-CoV-2 or SARS-CoV/MERS-CoV in cell-based assays. The interactome is available on a webserver at http://severus.dbmi.pitt.edu/corona/.
Considerations for Improving Metabolism Predictions for In Vitro to In Vivo Extrapolation
Authors: Moreau Marjory , Mallick Pankajini , Smeltz Marci , Haider Saad , Nicolas Chantel I. , Pendse Salil N. , Leonard Jeremy A. , Linakis Matthew W. , McMullen Patrick D. , Clewell Rebecca A. , Clewell Harvey J. , Yoon Miyoung
Published: April 2022

High-throughput (HT) in vitro to in vivo extrapolation (IVIVE) is an integral component in new approach method (NAM)-based risk assessment paradigms, for rapidly translating in vitro toxicity assay results into the context of in vivo exposure. When coupled with rapid exposure predictions, HT-IVIVE supports the use of HT in vitro assays for risk-based chemical prioritization. However, the reliability of prioritization based on HT bioactivity data and HT-IVIVE can be limited as the domain of applicability of current HT-IVIVE is generally restricted to intrinsic clearance measured primarily in pharmaceutical compounds. Further, current approaches only consider parent chemical toxicity. These limitations occur because current state-of-the-art HT prediction tools for clearance and metabolite kinetics do not provide reliable data to support HT-IVIVE. This paper discusses current challenges in implementation of IVIVE for prioritization and risk assessment and recommends a path forward for addressing the most pressing needs and expanding the utility of IVIVE.
The Link Between 15-F2t-Isoprostane Activity and Acute Bovine Endothelial Inflammation Remains Elusive
Authors: Putman Ashley K. , Sordillo Lorraine M. , Contreras G. Andres
Published: April 2022

Modern dairy cattle suffer from increased incidence and severity of mastitis during major physiological transitions of the lactation cycle. Oxidative stress, a condition resulting from inadequate antioxidant defense against reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, is a major underlying component of mastitis pathophysiology. Isoprostanes (IsoP) are molecules derived from cellular lipid membranes upon non-enzymatic interaction with reactive species during inflammation, and are regarded as highly sensitive and specific biomarkers of oxidative stress. Changes in IsoP concentrations have been noted during major physiological transitions and diseases such as coliform mastitis in dairy cattle. However, the biological role of IsoP during oxidative stress in dairy cows has not been well-elucidated. Therefore, this study aimed to characterize the impacts of IsoP on oxidative stress outcomes in a bovine model of acute endothelial inflammation. Bovine aortic endothelial cells (BAEC; n = 4) were stimulated with 2,2'-azobis (2-amidinopropane) dihydrochloride (AAPH) or lipopolysaccharide (LPS) with or without 15-F2t-IsoP to determine how IsoP influence oxidative stress outcomes. Our endothelial inflammation model showed relatively decreased reactive metabolites and increased barrier integrity in cells treated with both the agonist and IsoP compared to agonist treatment alone. However, IsoP do not appear to affect oxidative stress outcomes during acute inflammation. Understanding the effect of IsoP on BAEC is an early step in elucidating how IsoP impact dairy cows during times of oxidative stress in the context of acute clinical mastitis. Future studies should define the optimal dosing and treatment timing of IsoP to maximize their cytoprotective potential during acute inflammation.
Bovine Coronavirus Infects the Respiratory Tract of Cattle Challenged Intranasally
Authors: Soules Katelyn R. , Rahe Michael C. , Purtle Lisa , Moeckly Craig , Stark Paul , Samson Clay , Knittel Jeffrey P.
Published: April 2022

Bovine Coronavirus (BCoV) is a member of a family of viruses associated with both enteric and respiratory diseases in a wide range of hosts. BCoV has been well-established as a causative agent of diarrhea in cattle, however, its role as a respiratory pathogen is controversial. In this study, fifteen calves were challenged intranasally with virulent BCoV in order to observe the clinical manifestation of the BCoV infection for up to 8 days after initial challenge, looking specifically for indication of symptoms, pathology, and presence of viral infection in the respiratory tract, as compared to six unchallenged control calves. Throughout the study, clinical signs of disease were recorded and nasal swabs were collected daily. Additionally, bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) was performed at 4 days Post-challenge, and blood and tissue samples were collected from calves at 4, 6, or 8 days Post-challenge to be tested for the presence of BCoV and disease pathology. The data collected support that this BCoV challenge resulted in respiratory infections as evidenced by the isolation of BCoV in BAL fluids and positive qPCR, immunohistochemistry (IHC), and histopathologic lesions in the upper and lower respiratory tissues. This study can thus be added to a growing body of data supporting that BCoV is a respiratory pathogen and contributor to respiratory disease in cattle.
Update of Cestodes Parasitizing Neotropical Hystricomorphic Rodent
Authors: Jones Kegan Romelle
Published: April 2022

This review aims at identifying cestodes that are present in hunted rodent species in the neo-tropical region. The rodent species that was investigated were the capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris, Linnaeus, 1766), lappe (Cuniculus paca, Linnaeus, 1766), agouti (Dasyprocta leporina, Linnaeus, 1758), chinchilla (Chinchilla chinchilla, Lichtenstein, 1829), Trinidad spiny rat (Proehimys trinitatus, Allen and Chapman, 1893), nutria (Myocastor coypus, Molina, 1782), and vizcacha (Lagostomus maximus, Desmarest, 1817). These rodent species are utilized for their meats in many rural communities in the Caribbean and South America. These rodents belong to the hystricomorphic group.Raillietina demerariensisDaniels, 1895 was commonly found in the gastrointestinal tract ofD. leporina, C. pacaandP. trinitatus. Similarly, in the liver, muscle and subcutaneous tissue the metacestodes onEchinococcus vogeliDaniels, 1895 andEchinococcus oligarthruswas found in the lappe and agouti. The capybara was found to have the most species of cestodes in its gastrointestinal tract when compared to the agouti and lappe. However, metacestodes were not recorded in the tissues of the capybara. This surprising feature shows the effect of the difference in feeding habits between the capybara and the agouti and lappe. The literature reviewed in this study includes scientific publications on cestodes and metacestodes of Hystricomorphic rodents. An exhaustive search was performed using the digital repositories in Google Scholar, Scielo, Redalyc, Scopus and Pubmed. Literature searched spanned the years 1970-2021. Cestodes of zoonotic significance wereE. vogeliandE. oligarthrus, with humans becoming infected when consuming eggs of contaminated food and water. The agouti and lappe act as intermediate host in the life cycle ofE. vogeliandE. oligarthrus, the definitive host (canids and felids) become infected by consuming of tissue infected with metacestodes. Humans become infected through the ingestion of eggs from the definitive host where cystic lesions develop in the liver, lungs and other abdominal organs.
Case Report: Development of Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma a Long Time After Hairy Cell Leukemia
Authors: Nagy Zsófia F. , Ferenczi Kata , Istenes Ildikó , Eid Hanna , Bödör Csaba , Timár Botond , Demeter Judit
Published: April 2022

Hairy cell leukaemia (HCL) is a rare B cell malignancy with an indolent course leading to pancytopaenia due to bone marrow infiltration. It has been proposed that HCL patients are at risk of developing a secondary malignancy, with a marked likelihood of the development of other hematologic malignancies including Hodgkin lymphoma and high-grade non-Hodgkin lymphomas. Here, we present the case of two patients who developed diffuse large B cell lymphoma after a long course of hairy cell leukaemia. In the case of the female patient, we report on the occurrence of a third malignant disease, which is very uncommon. With our case descriptions we contribute to the very small number of similar cases reported.
Weeds in Non-Agricultural Areas: How to Evaluate the Impact? A Preliminary Case Study in Archaeological Sites
Authors: Fracchiolla Mariano , Lasorella Cesare , Cazzato Eugenio , Vurro Maurizio
Published: April 2022

The term “weeds” refers to “plants suitable for habitats modified by man and that interfere with human activities”. It implies an anthropocentric rather than an ecological vision since the existence and the characteristic of the interference depends on men’s purposes. In the archaeological sites, the most important damage is the functional one and it ranges from hazards for the structures to the interference that weed flora can exert on the technical management and fruition of the site. In this particular type of environment, the diverse methods available to quantify the magnitude of the infestation are not sufficient to describe the potential or actual hazard to which a given infested site is subjected. Therefore, it is necessary to consider a greater degree of detail (including morphological, ecological, and physiological properties of the weeds) and to keep them all in consideration. The aim of the present work was to try to identify and propose a method for the assessment of the hazards and thus the damages that a weed community can lead in sites of historical and archaeological interest. The procedure quantifies the degree of the infestation, in terms of occurring species, quantifies the related hazard based on some traits of the weed species, and calculates indexes capable of providing synthetic and comparable information on the hazard to which the site is exposed. The proposed method was applied and tested in some sites of archaeological interest in the Apulia Region, in southern Italy. Applied to the surveyed archaeological sites, the proposed Indexes revealed the presence of weed infestations variously assorted in terms of potential damage, generating different hazard scores. This confirms the importance of understanding the type of infestation and not only its extent. In this study, a procedure was provided that can support decision-makers. Although studied for archaeological sites, the same principles adopted in this procedure could be proposed for other non-agricultural areas.
Genetic Mapping and Candidate Gene Prediction of a QTL Related to Early Heading on Wild Emmer Chromosome 7BS in the Genetic Background of Common Wheat
Authors: Lu Fei , Chen Manxia , Zhao Yanhao , Wu Shaoxin , Yasir Muhammad , Zhang Hua , Hu Xin , Rong Junkang
Published: April 2022

Heading date (HD) is an essential agronomic objective in wheat conventional breeding. Field experiments from several years and locations indicated that the chromosome arm substitution line (CASL) of wild emmer chromosome 7BS in the genetic background of common wheat var. Chinese Spring (CS) always showed a substantially earlier HD than CS planted in different seasons; usually about 8 d earlier than CS grown under a normal autumn sowing season. CASL7BS consistently showed a much earlier HD than CS when treated for vernalization under a long or short photoperiod and then grown under a short or long photoperiod in the growth room. CASL7BS showed faster spike development than CS at the stages before the glume stage when grown under long days, and depicted relatively rapid growth at all stages when grown under short days. To map the early gene in CASL7BS, F2 plants from the cross of CASL7BS and CS were planted in the field and growth room, forming two mapping populations (P1 and P2, respectively). According to the HD distribution of P1, the HD was most likely regulated by a dominant gene. A QTL was detected consistently in the distal region of about 8.94 cM flanked by C268 and C309 with LOD scores of 5–8, explaining 9.14 and 12.35% of the phenotypic variation in the two mapping populations. The QTL was further narrowed down to an interval between ZAFU058724 and ZAFU061354 of 58–61 Mb based on the HD and genotype of F3 and F4 families. A total of 41 genes were located in this region, and eleven of them were thought to be the candidate genes based on the gene functions. According to the HD and mapping location, the QTL identified in this study was a new gene associated with flowering, which will be helpful in understanding the mechanism of wheat flowering and for breeding an early wheat variety.
Transcriptome Analysis Indicates Immune Responses against Vibrio harveyi in Chinese Tongue Sole (Cynoglossus semilaevis)
Authors: Zhang Xianghui , Hao Xiancai , Ma Wenxiu , Zhu Tengfei , Zhang Zhihua , Wang Qian , Liu Kaiqiang , Shao Changwei , Wang Hong-Yan
Published: April 2022

Pathogenic infection of fishes is an important constraining factor affecting marine aquaculture. Insufficient understanding of the molecular mechanisms has affected the diagnosis and corresponding treatment. Here, we reported the dynamic changes of gene expression patterns in the Chinese tongue sole kidney at 16 h, 48 h, 72 h and 96 h after Vibrio harveyi infection. In total, 366, 214, 115 and 238 differentially expressed genes were obtained from the 16 h−vs. −C, 48 h−vs. −C, 72 h−vs. −C and 96 h−vs. −C group comparisons, respectively. KEGG enrichment analysis revealed rapid up-regulation of several immune-related pathways, including IL-17, TNF and TLR signaling pathway. More importantly, time-series analyses of transcriptome showed that immune genes were specifically up-regulated in a short period of time and then decreased. The expression levels of chemokines increased after infection and reached a peak at 16 h. Specifically, Jak-STAT signaling pathway played a crucial role in the regulation during Vibrio harveyi infection. In the later stages of infection, genes in the neuroendocrine pathway, such as glucocorticoid-related genes, were activated in the kidney, indicating a close connection between the immune system and neuroendocrine system. Our dynamic transcriptome analyses provided profound insight into the gene expression profile and investigation of immunogenetic mechanisms of Chinese tongue sole.
Morphological Characterization and Molecular Phylogenetic Analysis of Kudoa iwatai from Large Yellow Croaker (Larimichthys crocea) as a New Host in China
Authors: Li Xiao-Bing , He Jie , Ma Rong-Rong , Sun Fu-Ying , Wu Wen-Xin , Luo Hua-Ming , Bai Lu-Huai , Qian Dong
Published: April 2022

Kudoa (Myxosporea: Multivalvulida) parasites are critical pathogens in marine and freshwater fish associated with significant economic losses and reduced market prices caused by post-mortem myoliquefaction or numerous cysts on muscles. In the present study, large yellow croakers infected by Kudoa were found during fish disease surveillance in China in November 2020 and used for morphological observation and characterization using light DIC microscopy and electron microscopy. Numerous creamy-white oval plasmodia were observed in muscles and on the surface of brain cartilage, gill arches, and serosal surfaces. The spores were considerably longer and thicker than previously reported Kudoa, with protruding polar filaments (PFs) in the mature spores, fingertip-shaped apical projections (APs), and polar capsules. Phylogenetic analyses with SSU rDNA, LSU rDNA, and mitochondrial DNA showed that the Kudoa-infected sample (LcK-2020) had the highest similarity to Kudoa iwatai reported in Japan. Based on the morphological characterization and phylogenetic analysis, it could be concluded that the sample LcK-2020 was infected by Kudoa iwatai, which would be the first report of Kudoa iwatai infection in large yellow croaker in China.
Inhibition of Neutrophil Extracellular Traps Formation by Cl-Amidine Alleviates Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Endometritis and Uterine Tissue Damage
Authors: Shen Wenxiang , Oladejo Ayodele Olaolu , Ma Xiaoyu , Jiang Wei , Zheng Juanshan , Imam Bereket Habte , Wang Shengyi , Wu Xiaohu , Ding Xuezhi , Ma Baohua , Yan Zuoting
Published: April 2022

Endometritis is a common disease that affects the production in dairy cows and leads to severe losses in the dairy industry. Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) formation promotes pathogenic invasions of the lumen of the tissue, leading to inflammatory diseases such as mastitis, pancreatitis, and septic infection. However, research that could show the relationship between NETs and endometritis is scarce. Cl-amidine has been shown to ameliorate the disease squealing and clinical manifestation in various disease models. In this study, we investigated the role of NETs in LPS-triggered endometritis in rats and evaluated the therapeutic efficiency of Cl-amidine. An LPS-induced endometritis model in rats was established and found that the formation of NETs can be detected in the rat’s uterine tissues in vivo. In addition, Cl-amidine treatment can inhibit NETs construction in LPS-induced endometritis in rats. Myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity assay indicated that Cl-amidine treatment remarkably alleviated the inflammatory cell infiltrations and attenuated the damage to the uterine tissue. The Western blot results indicated that Cl-amidine decreased the expression of citrullinated Histone H3 (Cit-H3) and high-mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1) protein in LPS-induced rat endometritis. The ELISA test indicated that Cl-amidine treatment significantly inhibited the expression of the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α. The NETs were determined by Quant-iTTMPicoGreen dsDNA kit®, which indicated that Cl-amidine significantly inhibited the NETs in rat serum. All results showed that Cl-amidine effectively reduced the expression of Cit-H3 and HMGB1 proteins by inhibiting the formation of NETs, thereby attenuating the inflammatory response to LPS-induced endometritis in rats. Hence, Cl-amidine could be a potential candidate for the treatment of endometritis.
Physiological Changes in Chicken Embryos Inoculated with Drugs and Viruses Highlight the Need for More Standardization of this Animal Model
Authors: Sommerfeld Simone , Mundim Antonio Vicente , Silva Rogério Reis , Queiroz Jéssica Santos , Rios Maisa Paschoal , Notário Fabiana Oliveira , Medeiros Ronchi Alessandra Aparecida , Beletti Marcelo Emílio , Franco Rodrigo Rodrigues , Espindola Foued Salmen , Goulart Luiz Ricardo , Fonseca Belchiolina Beatriz
Published: April 2022

Several studies have been developed using the Gallus gallus embryo as an experimental model to study the toxicity of drugs and infections. Studies that seek to standardize the evaluated parameters are needed to better understand and identify the viability of CEs as an experimental model. Therefore, we sought to verify whether macroscopic, histopathological, blood count, metabolites and/or enzymes changes and oxidative stress in CE of different ages are specific to the model. To achieve this goal, in ovo assays were performed by injecting a virus (Gammacoronavirus) and two drugs (filgrastim and dexamethasone) that cause known changes in adult animals. Although congestion and inflammatory infiltrate were visible in the case of viral infections, the white blood cell count and inflammation biomarkers did not change. Filgrastim (FG) testing did not increase granulocytes as we expected. On the other hand, CE weight and red blood cell count were lower with dexamethasone (DX), whereas white blood cell count and biomarkers varied depended on the stage of CE development. Our work reinforces the importance of standardization and correct use of the model so that the results of infection, toxicity and pharmacokinetics are reproducible.
A Refined Method for Studying Foraging Behaviour and Body Mass in Group-Housed European Starlings
Authors: Bateson Melissa , Nolan Ryan
Published: April 2022

Laboratory experiments on passerine birds have been important for testing hypotheses regarding the effects of environmental variables on the adaptive regulation of body mass. However, previous work in this area has suffered from poor ecological validity and animal welfare due to the requirement to house birds individually in small cages to facilitate behavioural measurement and frequent catching for weighing. Here, we describe the social foraging system, a novel technology that permits continuous collection of individual-level data on operant foraging behaviour and body mass from group-housed European starlings (Sturnus vulgaris). We report on the rapid acquisition of operant key pecking, followed by foraging and body mass data from two groups of six birds maintained on a fixed-ratio operant schedule under closed economy for 11 consecutive days. Birds gained 6.0 ± 1.2 g (mean ± sd) between dawn and dusk each day and lost an equal amount overnight. Individual daily mass gain trajectories were non-linear, with the rate of gain decelerating between dawn and dusk. Within-bird variation in daily foraging effort (key pecks) positively predicted within-bird variation in dusk mass. However, between-bird variation in mean foraging effort was uncorrelated with between-bird variation in mean mass, potentially indicative of individual differences in daily energy requirements. We conclude that the social foraging system delivers refined data collection and offers potential for improving our understanding of mass regulation in starlings and other species.
Ginseng, Tribulus Extracts and Pollen Grains Supplementation Improves Sexual State, Testes Redox Status, and Testicular Histology in Nile Tilapia Males
Authors: Mansour Abdallah Tageldein , Alsaqufi Ahmed Saud , Omar Eglal Ali , El-Beltagi Hossam S. , Srour Tarek Mohamed , Yousef Mokhtar Ibrahim
Published: April 2022

This study aimed to investigate the effect of dietary supplementation of three natural antioxidants on sex hormone levels, enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant systems, and histological changes in the testes of male Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus. A total of 210 male Nile tilapia were distributed into seven treatments (three replicates for each) with an initial weight of 3.67 g fish−1. The fish were fed experimental diets (32% crude protein) without supplementation as control or supplemented with ginseng extract (GE; 0.2 and 0.4 g GE kg−1 diet), Tribulus terrestris extract (TT; 0.6 and 1.2 g TT kg−1 diet), and date palm pollen grains (DPPG; 3 and 6 g DPPG kg−1 diet) for 84 days. The results revealed a significant increase in the luteinizing hormone level with TT, DPPG, and GE supplementation increased the levels by 22.9%, 18.5%, and 17.6%, respectively. The testosterone level also increased significantly with TT1.2, GE0.4, TT0.6, and DPPG6 by 86.23%, 64.49%, 57.40%, and 24.62%, respectively. The antioxidant status in the testis homogenate showed a significant decrease in the level of thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances when using different dietary substances. In addition, glutathione reduced contents, glutathione S-transferases, glutathione peroxidase, catalase, and superoxide dismutase activities significantly increased with different dietary supplementation in a dose-dependent manner. The histological evaluation revealed normal histological features of the testes in all treatments with increasing active seminiferous tubules (%) in GE, TT, and DPPG supplemented groups, especially with the highest levels. In conclusion, the dietary supplementation of GE, TT, and DPPG enhanced sex hormones level, redox status, and testis structure and could improve the male reproductive performance of Nile tilapia.
Protective Effects of N-Acetylcysteine on Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Respiratory Inflammation and Oxidative Stress
Authors: Chen Hongbai , Ma Nana , Song Xiaokun , Wei Guozhen , Zhang Hongzhu , Liu Jing , Shen Xiangzhen , Zhuge Xiangkai , Chang Guangjun
Published: April 2022

As the leading cause of bovine respiratory disease (BRD), bacterial pneumonia can result in tremendous losses in the herd farming industry worldwide. N-acetylcysteine (NAC), an acetylated precursor of the amino acid L-cysteine, has been reported to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. To explore the protective effect and underlying mechanisms of NAC in ALI, we investigated its role in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced bovine embryo tracheal cells (EBTr) and mouse lung injury models. We found that NAC pretreatment attenuated LPS-induced inflammation in EBTr and mouse models. Moreover, LPS suppressed the expression of oxidative-related factors in EBTr and promoted gene expression and the secretion of inflammatory cytokines. Conversely, the pretreatment of NAC alleviated the secretion of inflammatory cytokines and decreased their mRNA levels, maintaining stable levels of antioxidative gene expression. In vivo, NAC helped LPS-induced inflammatory responses and lung injury in ALI mice. The relative protein concentration, total cells, and percentage of neutrophils in BALF; the level of secretion of IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, and IL-1β; MPO activity; lung injury score; and the expression level of inflammatory-related genes were decreased significantly in the NAC group compared with the LPS group. NAC also ameliorated LPS-induced mRNA level changes in antioxidative genes. In conclusion, our findings suggest that NAC affects the inflammatory and oxidative response, alleviating LPS-induced EBTr inflammation and mouse lung injury, which offers a natural therapeutic strategy for BRD.
Process to Establish the Enhance of Fatigue Life of New Mechanical System Such as a Drawer by Accelerated Tests
Authors: Woo Seongwoo , O’Neal Dennis L. , Hassen Yimer Mohammed
Published: April 2022

To extend the life of a mechanical system, parametric Accelerated Life Testing (ALT) is proposed as a procedure to identify design faults and reduce fatigue failure. It includes a derivation of generalized time to failure model by linear transport process and a sample size equation for the ALT. A refrigerator drawer was used as an example. After loading, the rail rollers broke and the center support was bent. Ribs were added to the center support and the rail roller support was extended. At the first ALT, the box cover failed near the intersection between the cover and body. The box was then modified by increasing the rib and fillet. At the second ALT, the rails and center support fractured. They were altered by increasing the rib and corner rounding. After the third ALT, there were no issues. The drawer lifetime was ensured to be B1 life 10 years.
DC Cabling of Large-Scale Photovoltaic Power Plants
Authors: Akšamović Abdulah , Konjicija Samim , Odžak Senad , Pašalić Sedin , Grebović Selma
Published: April 2022

The development of Floating Solar Photovoltaic (FPV) systems is a sign of a promising future in the Renewable Energy field. Numerous solar modules and inverters are mounted on large-scale floating platforms. It is important to design the system so that the inverter operates in its optimum range most of the time. In order to achieve this goal on the DC side, serial and parallel connections of solar modules are used. As a result, the cabling of the PV array architecture is an important issue. Modern electrical installation design requires reducing costs in cabling materials, equipment installation, and maintenance. The reduction of losses and the amount of time required to complete the design are also significant. Therefore, the main topic of this paper is DC cabling in large-scale FPV power plants (>1 MV). The serial-parallel (SP) connection scheme of solar modules and the percentage of power loss in DC cables are considered. Furthermore, a general method for determining cable lengths for FPV power plants is defined. The temperature influence on losses in DC cables is analyzed. A new method for determining the current at the maximum power point (MPP) as a function of temperature is proposed. A case study is conducted using a hypothetical 3 MW FPV power plant, and the obtained results are presented and analyzed.
Anti-Inflammatory Butenolides from a Marine-Derived Streptomyces sp. 13G036
Authors: Gao Ming , Lee Sang Bong , Lee Jae-Eon , Kim Geum Jin , Moon Jimin , Nam Joo-Won , Bae Jong-Sup , Chin Jungwook , Jeon Yong Hyun , Choi Hyukjae
Published: April 2022

Butenolides are a family of lactones containing a double bond and have been frequently found in the extracts of Streptomyces bacterial species with various pharmacological activities. In this study, seven butenolides (1–7) were discovered and isolated from the culture broth of a marine-derived Streptomyces sp. 13G036 based on a molecular networking analysis. Among the seven isolates, compound 7 was first isolated as a natural product in this study. The structures of compounds 1–7 were determined by combined analysis of 1D/2D Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectra, Mass Spectrometry (MS) spectra and electronic circular dichroism (ECD) data. Compounds 1–6 showed potential anti-inflammatory activities by inhibiting the production of nitric oxide (NO), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukine-6 (IL-6) in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated macrophages.
Estimating Natural Frequencies of Cartesian 3D Printer Based on Kinematic Scheme
Authors: Kopets Ekaterina , Karimov Artur , Scalera Lorenzo , Butusov Denis
Published: April 2022

Nowadays, 3D printers based on Cartesian kinematics are becoming extremely popular due to their reliability and inexpensiveness. In the early stages of the 3D printer design, once it is chosen to use the Cartesian kinematics, it is always necessary to select relative positions of axes and linear drives (prismatic joints), which would be optimal for the particular specification. Within the class of Cartesian mechanics, many designs are possible. Using the Euler–Lagrange formalism, this paper introduces a method for estimating the natural frequencies of Cartesian 3D printers based on the kinematic scheme. Comparison with the finite element method and experimental validation of the proposed method are given. The method can help to develop preliminary designs of Cartesian 3D printers and is especially useful for emerging 3D-printing technologies.
Solid-Electrolyte Amperometric Sensor for Simultaneous Measurement of CO and CO2 in Nitrogen
Authors: Kalyakin Anatoly , Volkov Alexander , Dunyushkina Liliya
Published: April 2022

A solid-state amperometric sensor based on yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) for the simultaneous measurement of CO and CO2 concentrations in inert gases was fabricated. The designed sensor consists of two electrically isolated ceramic cells made of YSZ and equipped with Pt electrodes. Ceramic capillaries connecting an inner gas chamber of each cell with the outside atmosphere serve as diffusion barriers. One of the cells is intended for sensing CO, whereas the other is for sensing CO2 in the gaseous atmosphere. The electrochemical response of the sensor was studied in the temperature range of 600–750 °C in the presence of up to 10% of CO and CO2 in nitrogen. The limiting currents of the two cells were shown to rise linearly with the relevant carbon oxide concentration, and no perceptible cross-sensitivity effect toward the other carbon oxide was found. The sensor demonstrated high stability and reproducibility of results and good dynamic characteristics. The novelty of this research lies in the development of a simple, reliable and fast solid-oxide sensor for simultaneous sensing of CO and CO2 in inert gases, which can be used for the control of atmosphere in, for example, pharmaceutical, chemical, food storage industries.
Synthesis, Physical Properties and Electrochemical Applications of Two Ionic Liquids Containing the Asymmetric (Fluoromethylsulfonyl)(Trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide Anion
Authors: Palumbo Oriele , Appetecchi Giovanni Battista , Maresca Giovanna , Brubach Jean-Blaise , Roy Pascale , Di Muzio Simone , Trequattrini Francesco , Bordignon Delphine , Legrand Florine , Falgayrat Anaïs , Lin Rongying , Fantini Sebastien , Paolone Annalisa
Published: April 2022

Novel ionic liquid (IL) electrolytes based on the asymmetric (fluoromethylsulfonyl)(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide (FTFSI)− anion, combined with the N-trimethyl-N-butyl-ammonium (N1114)+ and N,N-diethyl-N-methyl-N(2-methoxyethyl)-ammonium (N122(2O1))+ cations, were successfully synthesized and investigated in terms of thermal, vibrational and electrochemical properties. Thermogravimetric measurements revealed that the ionic liquids are stable up to 300 °C (2% mass loss). Differential scanning calorimetry measurements evidenced no phase transition down to −90 °C, suggesting a transition towards a glass state at lower temperatures. Infrared spectroscopy measurements, for the first time performed on ILs containing FTFSI, could not detect any crystallization down to −140 °C. The frequency of the main absorption bands of the ILs are in good agreement with DFT calculations. The FTFSI ionic liquid electrolytes, containing 20% mol of LiTFSI, show no solid-liquid phase transition due to the asymmetry of the FTFSI− anion, increasing the −10 °C conductivity up to 10−4 S cm−1. These interesting ion transport properties remarkably extend the operative temperature range down to low temperatures. The FTFSI electrolytes exhibit remarkable electrochemical stability up to 4.8 V, this making them appealing for realizing safer and highly reliable lithium battery systems operating at high voltages.
Influence of the Electron Selective Contact on the Interfacial Recombination in Fresh and Aged Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Jiménez-López Jesús , Méndez Maria , Palomares Emilio
Published: April 2022

In this work, we have used TiO2 and SnO2 layers as electron selective contact (ESC) in n-i-p perovskite solar cells configuration. To study and compare the ion migration kinetics of these ESC, CsFAMAPbIBr and MAPbI3-based devices were fabricated and characterised in fresh (1 day) and aged (28 days) conditions. Depending on the ESC and perovskite composition, devices reveal a different progression over time in terms of hysteresis and performance. Using transient photovoltage (TPV) and transient photocurrent (TPC) techniques, we studied the kinetics of carrier extraction and recombination, which showed that aged devices present slower recombination kinetics compared to their fresh counterparts, revealing a positive effect of the aging process. Finally, transient of the transient, derived from the TPV technique, discloses that TiO2 accumulates more charges in the ESC/perovskite interface compared to SnO2 and that the ion migration kinetics are directly related to the perovskite composition.
Photovoltaic Roundabouts for Enhancement of Self-Sufficiency and Resiliency
Authors: Leonardi Salvatore , Tina Giuseppe Marco , Distefano Natalia
Published: April 2022

Roundabouts have become a common type of intersection design in many countries. The area of the center island can be used to install a photovoltaic system to power local loads such as lighting systems. The objective of this study is to evaluate the degree of self-sufficiency that a roundabout can achieve depending on the availability of the area for the installation of a photovoltaic system and the energy demand for lighting. The methodology is divided into five steps aimed at calculating the parameters required to characterize the roundabouts from the point of view of the electricity that can be generated by the photovoltaic systems installed, and then to evaluate the energy consumption required to operate the different system solutions for lighting. The mini roundabouts are not considered as a location for the photovoltaic system; in fact, the minimum diameter must be between 29 and 34 m. Considering the available irradiance in Italy, systems with monocrystalline silicon modules are sufficient to ensure energy self-sufficiency at diameters of 24 m or more. Systems with polycrystalline silicon modules are suitable to ensure energy self-sufficiency at diameters of 25/26 m or more. Photovoltaic (PV) technology continues to make progress in increasing efficiency, such as bifacial PV modules. This means that even smaller roundabouts could be eligible for a PV system sized to meet local electricity needs.
Air Quality and Behavioral Impacts of Anti-Idling Campaigns in School Drop-Off Zones
Authors: Mendoza Daniel L. , Benney Tabitha M. , Bares Ryan , Fasoli Benjamin , Anderson Corbin , Gonzales Shawn A. , Crosman Erik T. , Bayles Madelyn , Forrest Rachel T. , Contreras John R. , Hoch Sebastian
Published: April 2022

Vehicle emissions are a major source of pollution in urban communities and idling may contribute up to 34% or more to local air pollution levels. Reduced idling has been found to be an effective policy tool for improving air quality, especially around schools, where it may also improve outcomes for asthmatic children. We studied two anti-idling campaigns in Salt Lake County, Utah to understand if reduced engine idling leads to behavioral change and subsequent reduction in traffic-related air pollution exposure of the related school. We found a 38% decrease in idling time following an anti-idling campaign and an 11% decrease in the number of vehicles idling at the school drop-off zones. The air quality measurements showed improvement in the middle of the campaign, but seasonal variability as well as atmospheric inversion events had substantial effects on overall ambient pollutant concentrations. This study provides an encouraging starting point to develop more effective anti-idling campaigns to protect the health of children, school staff, and the surrounding community.
Determination of Volatility Parameters of Secondary Organic Aerosol Components via Thermal Analysis
Authors: Ashraf Fawad , Babar Zaeem Bin , Park Jun-Hyun , Dao Pham Duy Quang , Cho Chan Sik , Lim Ho-Jin
Published: April 2022

To date, there are limited data on the thermal properties of secondary organic aerosol (SOA) components. In this study, we employed an experimental method to evaluate the physical properties of some atmospherically relevant compounds. We estimated the thermodynamic properties of SOA components, in particularly some carboxylic acids. The molar heat capacity, melting point and enthalpy, and vaporization enthalpy of the samples were determined via differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis, and their vaporization enthalpy (ΔHvap) was estimated using Clausius–Clapeyron and Langmuir equations based on their thermogravimetric profiles. The thermodynamic properties of benzoic acid as a reference compound agree well with the reported values. The obtained specific heat capacities of benzoic acid, phthalic acid, pinic acid, ketopinic acid, cis-pinonic acid, terpenylic acid and diaterpenylic acid acetate (DTAA) are 118.1, 169.4, 189.9, 223.9, 246.1, 223.2, and 524.1 J mol−1 K−1, respectively. The ΔHvap of benzoic acid, phthalic acid, ketopinic acid, DTAA, and 3-methylbutane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid (3-MBTCA) are 93.2 ± 0.4, 131.6, 113.8, and 124.4 kJ mol−1, respectively. The melting and vaporization enthalpies of the SOA components range from 7.3 to 29.7 kJ mol−1.
Adverse Audio-Vestibular Effects of Drugs and Vaccines Used in the Treatment and Prevention of COVID-19: A Review
Authors: Skarzynska Magdalena B. , Matusiak Monika , Skarzynski Piotr H.
Published: April 2022

(1) Background: The purpose of this article is to review pharmacological treatments for COVID-19 (currently approved by the EMA (European Medical Agency) and FDA (Food and Drug Administration)) and highlight their potential audio-vestibular side-effects as an ototoxic adverse reaction. (2) Methods: Review of the available literature in the scientific databases PubMed, ResearchGate, Scopus, and ScienceDirect, and in summaries of product data sheets. (3) Results: In accordance with EBM (evidence-based medicine) the treatment of COVID-19 by using lopinavir/ritonavir, chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine, azithromycin, favipiravir, amantadine, oseltamivir, and ivermectin is no longer recommended for patients suffering from COVID-19 due to a lack of clinical data, publications, and recommendations. There were 39 publications and 15 summaries of product characteristics (as other sources of data) which were also used in this analysis. Adverse events could be permanent or disappear over time. Following treatment for COVID-19, the most frequent adverse audio-vestibular reactions reported in clinical trials and publications in the area of audiology and otorhinolaryngology were: dizziness, blurry vision with dizziness, nasopharyngitis, dysgeusia, and tinnitus. As far as vaccines are concerned, dizziness as an ototoxic effect was uncommon and occurs only in hypersensitive people who experience anaphylactic shock. (4) Conclusions: The ototoxicity of the drugs discussed here does not have as severe symptoms as the drugs used in the treatment of COVID-19 in 2020 (e.g., hydroxychloroquine), and relates mainly to disorders of the vestibulocochlear system. However, there is still a need to monitor ototoxic side-effects because of potential interactions with other ototoxic drugs. Many of the drugs approved by EMA and FDA are new, and not every side-effect is known.