bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and Correlates of Active Amphetamine-Type Stimulant Use Among Female Sex Workers in Malaysia
Authors: Pedersen Courtney J. , Wickersham Jeffrey A. , Altice Frederick L. , Kamarulzaman Adeeba , Khoshnood Kaveh , Gibson Britton A. , Khati Antoine , Maviglia Francesca , Shrestha Roman
Published: June 2022

The use of amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS) has been associated with increased sexual risk behaviors and HIV transmission, among other adverse health outcomes. However, ATS use among female sex workers (FSWs) in Malaysia has not yet been characterized. We examined the prevalence and correlates associated with ATS use among Malaysian FSW. Between February and December 2016, 492 FSWs, including cisgender (n = 299) and transgender (n = 193) women, were recruited using respondent-driven sampling in Greater Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. A structured questionnaire was used to collect demographic characteristics, sexual behaviors, ATS and other substance use, behavioral health issues, involvement in criminal justice, and experience of physical and sexual trauma. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to determine factors associated with active ATS use, defined as ATS use in the last 30 days. Nearly one-third (32.3%) of participants reported active ATS use. In the multivariable model, ATS use was associated with drug use during sex work (aOR = 17.10; 8.32–35.15), having moderate to severe level of substance use disorder (aOR = 3.38; 1.48–7.70), and engaging in sex work with multiple clients per day (two clients: aOR = 3.39; 1.36–8.46; three clients: aOR = 5.06; 1.81–14.10). A high prevalence of ATS use was documented in our sample. The presence of moderate to severe substance use disorder, the use of drugs during sex work activity, and having multiple sex work clients per day were significantly associated with active ATS use. Given these findings, prevention and harm reduction strategies need to be tailored to address the increasing ATS use and the associated adverse health consequences among FSWs in Malaysia.
Prevalence and Predictors of Toxoplasma gondii Infection in Psychiatric Inpatients in Fars Province, Southern Iran
Authors: Teimouri Aref , Nassrullah Othman Jamal , Hedayati Pouya , Bahreini Mohammad Saleh , Alimi Rasoul , Mohtasebi Sina , Salemi Amir Masoud , Asgari Qasem
Published: June 2022

Background

Psychiatric patients are at increased risk of exposure to Toxoplasma gondii infection, which may be linked to their living facilities and behaviors. Limited knowledge on the prevalence of T. gondii infection and its associated risk factors in psychiatric patients are available to the international medical communities. Thus, the aim of the current study was to assess seroprevalence of T. gondii and its associated risk factors in psychiatric inpatients in Fars Province, southern Iran.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was carried out on psychiatric patients hospitalized in Ibn Sina Hospital affiliated to Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Fars Province, southern Iran, March to July 2021. Blood samples were collected from 318 psychiatric patients and assessed for the detection of IgG against T. gondii using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Moreover, structured questionnaires were completed for the participants at the time of sampling. Logistic regression analysis was used to assess possible associations between the latent toxoplasmosis and the variables.

Results

The overall seroprevalence of anti-T. gondii IgG in psychiatric inpatients was 22.3% (71/318; 95% CI = 17.9–27.3). Multivariate analyses revealed that age > 30 years [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 2.24, 95% CI = 1.10–4.60, p = 0.03], contact with cats (AOR = 2.52, 95% CI = 1.14–5.58, p = 0.03), raw vegetable consumption (AOR = 3.65, 95% CI = 1.74–7.65, p = 0.001), raw/undercooked meat consumption (AOR = 4.30, 95% CI = 1.47–12.63, p = 0.008), suicide attempt (AOR = 3.77, 95% CI = 1.58–8.97, p = 0.003) and cigarette smoking history (AOR = 0.38, 95% CI = 0.17–0.83, p = 0.02) were independent risk factors for T. gondii infection.

Conclusion

The current results demonstrated that contact with cats, raw vegetable consumption and raw/undercooked meat consumption were independent risk factors for T. gondii seropositivity. Moreover, the current study showed significant associations between seropositivity of T. gondii and suicide attempts as well as negative associations between seropositivity of T. gondii and cigarette smoking in psychiatric inpatients using multivariate logistic regression.
Prevalence and Molecular Characterization of Metallo β-Lactamase Producing Gram-Negative Pathogens Causing Eye Infections
Authors: Rameshkumar Gunasekaran , Dhandapani Ranjithkumar , Lalitha Prajna , Rajapandian Siva Ganesa Karthikeyan , Palanivel Velmurugan , Thangavelu Sathiamoorthi , Alyousef Abdullah A. , Albalawi Thamer , Alam Pravej , Zubair Mohammad , Saleh Fayez M. , Alatawi Fuad Abdullah , Husain Fohad M.
Published: June 2022

Purpose:

Metallo β-lactamases (MβL) production is a worldwide problem, particularly in gram-negative bacteria. As scanty data is available on the prevalence of MBL, the present study is being undertaken to determine the prevalence, antibacterial sensitivity patterns, and molecular characterization of MβL associated resistant genes in gram-negative bacteria isolated from ocular infections.

Material and Methods

At a tertiary eye care center in south India, 359 gram-negative pathogens, 200 isolates from eye infections, and 159 isolates from normal flora of the eye were studied. A gold standard microbiology method was used to identify the isolates. An antibiotic double disc synergy test and a combination disc test were used to detect MβL production. Multiplex PCR was used to investigate the molecular characteristics of the MβL encoding genes blaVIM, blaIMP, and blaNDM.

Results

Of the 359 gram-negative bacterial pathogens, Pseudomonas aeruginosa 108 (30.1%) and Enterobacter agglomerans 46 (12.8%) were commonly isolated. High prevalence of P. aeruginosa 81% (17 strains) was detected as an MβL producer and it shows 100% resistance to 2nd and 3rd generation cephalosporins and meropenem. Multiplex PCR detected only the blaVIM gene in 56 (28%) of various eye infections and 27 (17%) of normal flora of the gram-negative bacteria (GNB). The blaVIM gene is detected predominantly in 51.8% of keratitis and 21.4% of postoperative endophthalmitis. High prevalence of the gene was detected in P. aeruginosa 42.9% (24 of 56) and Alcaligens denitrificans 10.7% (6 of 56) from eye infections. Whereas, in the control group, P. aeruginosa and E. coli each had 14.8% (4 of 27) that were shown positive.

Conclusion

The emerging MβLs mediated resistance among P. aeruginosa is a challenging task for ophthalmologists, especially in patients with endophthalmitis and bacterial keratitis. This local knowledge will aid in advising appropriate antibiotic use and avoiding unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions, which are highly warranted.
Impact of Micronutrient Supplementation on Pesticide Residual, Acetylcholinesterase Activity, and Oxidative Stress Among Farm Children Exposed to Pesticides
Authors: Medithi Srujana , Kasa Yogeswar Dayal , Kankipati Vijay Radhakrishna , Kodali Venkaiah , Jee Babban , Jonnalagadda Padmaja R.
Published: June 2022

The present interventional study aimed to assess the impact of micronutrient supplementation on pesticide-residues concentrations, vitamins, minerals, acetylcholinesterase activity and oxidative stress among 129 farm children (9–12 years, n = 66 and 13–15 years, n = 63) involved in farming activities in Ranga Reddy district, Telangana, India. Our data showed the presence of five organophosphorus pesticide residues (chlorpyrifos, diazinon, malathion, monocrotophos, and phosalone) among children before-supplementation (both age-groups); while post-supplementation, only two pesticide residues (chlorpyrifos and diazinon) were detected indicating improved metabolic rate. Vitamin E, copper, magnesium and zinc levels were also improved in both the age-groups and manganese levels were significantly increased only among children of 13–15 years age group. Further, post-supplementation also showed an improvement in acetylcholinesterase activity and a decrease in lipid peroxidation among both the age groups of children. However, further research for ascertaining the ameliorating effect of micronutrients in preventing adverse effects of organophosphorus pesticides must be conducted.
Blood Lead Exposure and Association With Hepatitis B Core Antibody in the United States: NHANES 2011–2018
Authors: Han Kexing , He Tengyao , Huang Siran , Sun Weijie , Gao Yufeng
Published: June 2022

The objective of this project was to explore the distribution and related factors of blood lead and the association between blood lead and hepatitis B core antibody (HBcAb). All the data were from the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). In total, 15,097 (aged 20–80 years) participants were included. Participants without a history of blood transfusion were more likely to be exposed to lower levels of blood lead [−2.30 (−3.13, −1.47) for HBcAb (–) and −2.23 (−4.54, 0.08) for HBcAb (+)]. The odds ratio (OR) of HBcAb (+) increased with blood lead and the result was 1.09 (1.06, 1.12). This study showed that older adults, men, people with a lower education level, a lower ratio of family income to poverty (PIR), a lower body mass index (BMI), or a history of blood transfusion, people who lived with a companion or with a total number of people in the family >3, people living in the United States for a longer time, U.S. citizens by birth or naturalization, and people not born in the United States were associated with higher blood lead exposure, and blood lead had a positive association with HBcAb (+).
Understanding the Experiences of Black Women Medical Students and Residents: A Narrative Review
Authors: Sharp Sacha , Hixson Ashley , Stumpff Julia , Williamson Francesca
Published: June 2022

Background

Few research studies examine medical students and residents with intersectional identities. In the emerging literature, data on Black women's experiences may be misrepresented and misinterpreted as studies aggregate data for women, students of color, and Black/African American men. As such, these studies do not account for the nuanced experiences of gendered racism that Black women students and residents may encounter during their medical education.

Methods

Using Crenshaw's intersectionality as an analytical tool, we conducted a narrative review to highlight how Black women medical students and residents are rendered invisible in the current literature on medical education.

Results

The results generated 13 citations specifically discussing Black women medical students and residents, with only six studies being empirical research.

Conclusion

We conclude that 13 articles is inadequate for understanding the experiences of these populations. Without centering Black women or using an intersectional lens, researchers could invalidate the lived experiences of this population and create barriers to the political resources Black women learners need to be successful. Moreover, the lack of intention behind addressing the needs of Black women can be viewed as complicity in the oppressive structures that serve to subjugate them.
Facing the FACS—Using AI to Evaluate and Control Facial Action Units in Humanoid Robot Face Development
Authors: Auflem Marius , Kohtala Sampsa , Jung Malte , Steinert Martin
Published: June 2022

This paper presents a new approach for evaluating and controlling expressive humanoid robotic faces using open-source computer vision and machine learning methods. Existing research in Human-Robot Interaction lacks flexible and simple tools that are scalable for evaluating and controlling various robotic faces; thus, our goal is to demonstrate the use of readily available AI-based solutions to support the process. We use a newly developed humanoid robot prototype intended for medical training applications as a case example. The approach automatically captures the robot’s facial action units through a webcam during random motion, which are components traditionally used to describe facial muscle movements in humans. Instead of manipulating the actuators individually or training the robot to express specific emotions, we propose using action units as a means for controlling the robotic face, which enables a multitude of ways to generate dynamic motion, expressions, and behavior. The range of action units achieved by the robot is thus analyzed to discover its expressive capabilities and limitations and to develop a control model by correlating action units to actuation parameters. Because the approach is not dependent on specific facial attributes or actuation capabilities, it can be used for different designs and continuously inform the development process. In healthcare training applications, our goal is to establish a prerequisite of expressive capabilities of humanoid robots bounded by industrial and medical design constraints. Furthermore, to mediate human interpretation and thus enable decision-making based on observed cognitive, emotional, and expressive cues, our approach aims to find the minimum viable expressive capabilities of the robot without having to optimize for realism. The results from our case example demonstrate the flexibility and efficiency of the presented AI-based solutions to support the development of humanoid facial robots.
Drought Reduces Release of Plant Matter Into Dissolved Organic Matter Potentially Restraining Ecosystem Recovery
Authors: Orme Alice May , Lange Markus , Schroeter Simon Andreas , Wicke Marcus , Kolle Olaf , Pohnert Georg , Gleixner Gerd
Published: June 2022

Future climate scenarios indicate increasing drought intensity that threatens ecosystem functioning. However, the behavior of ecosystems during intense drought, such as the 2018 drought in Northern Europe, and their respective response following rewetting is not fully understood. We investigated the effect of drought on four different vegetation types in a temperate climate by analyzing dissolved organic matter (DOM) concentration and composition present in soil leachate, and compared it to two accompanying years. DOM is known to play an important role in ecosystem recovery and holds information on matter flows between plants, soil microorganisms and soil organic matter. Knowledge about DOM opens the possibility to better disentangle the role of plants and microorganisms in ecosystem recovery. We found that the average annual DOM concentration significantly decreased during the 2018 drought year compared to the normal year. This suggests a stimulation of DOM release under normal conditions, which include a summer drought followed by a rewetting period. The rewetting period, which holds high DOM concentrations, was suppressed under more intense drought. Our detailed molecular analysis of DOM using ultrahigh resolution mass spectrometry showed that DOM present at the beginning of the rewetting period resembles plant matter, whereas in later phases the DOM molecular composition was modified by microorganisms. We observed this pattern in all four vegetation types analyzed, although vegetation types differed in DOM concentration and composition. Our results suggest that plant matter drives ecosystem recovery and that increasing drought intensity may lower the potential for ecosystem recovery.
Plant-Based Alkaline Fermented Foods as Sustainable Sources of Nutrients and Health-Promoting Bioactive Compounds
Authors: Owusu-Kwarteng James , Agyei Dominic , Akabanda Fortune , Atuna Richard Atinpoore , Amagloh Francis Kweku
Published: June 2022

Traditional food fermentation is a practice that precedes human history. Acidic products such as yogurts and sourdoughs or alcoholic beverages produced through lactic acid or yeast fermentations, respectively, are widely described and documented. However, a relatively less popular group of fermented products known as alkaline fermented foods are common traditional products in Africa and Asia. These products are so called “alkaline” because the pH tends to increase during fermentation due to the formation of ammonia resulting from protein degradation by Bacillus species. Plant-based alkaline fermented foods (AFFs) are generally produced from legumes including soybean, non-soybean leguminous seeds, and other non-legume plant raw materials. Alkaline fermented food products such as natto, douchi, kinema, doenjang, chongkukjang, thua nao, meitauza, yandou, dawadawa/iru, ugba, kawal, okpehe, otiru, oso, ogiri, bikalga, maari/tayohounta, ntoba mbodi, cabuk, and owoh are produced at small industrial scale or household levels and widely consumed in Asia and Africa where they provide essential nutrients and health-promoting bioactive compounds for the population. Alkaline food fermentation is important for sustainable food security as it contributes to traditional dietary diversity, significantly reduces antinutritional components in raw plant materials thereby improving digestibility, improves health via the production of vitamins, and may confer probiotic and post-biotic effects onto consumers. In this review, we present currently available scientific information on plant-based AFFs and their role as sustainable sources of nutrients and bioactive compounds for improved health. Finally, we provide perspectives on research needs required to harness the full potential of AFFs in contributing to nutrition and health.
Case Report: Successful Repair of Primary Aortoesophageal Fistula With an Endovascular Stent Graft and an Esophageal Stent
Authors: Wu Zhi-Wei , Yao Yong-Dong , Li Yi-Ming
Published: June 2022

Aortoesophageal fistula (AEF), secondary to thoracic pseudoaneurysm as a result of upper gastrointestinal bleeding, is a rare condition and will be undoubtedly lethal without prompt surgical intervention. The estimated annual incidence of primary AEFs and secondary AEFs is about 0.0015% and 0.6%–2%, respectively. The challenges of the therapy posed by AEF are control of the hemorrhage, arterial reconstruction in an infection field, control of sepsis, and re-establishment of the alimentary tract. We present a case of a 58-year-old man who suffered from chest pain and hematemesis and was finally diagnosed with pAEF caused by descending thoracic pseudoaneurysm. Our team successfully deployed an endovascular stent graft and esophageal stent to seal ruptured thoracic aorta and esophageal defects, which provided a new surgical strategy for aortoesophageal fistula in the endovascular era.
Global Research Status and Trends of Femoral Neck Fracture Over the Past 27 Years: A Historical Review and Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Peng Peng , Xiao Fangjun , He Xiaoming , Fang Weihua , Huang Jiewen , Wang Bin , Luo Yiwen , Zhang Qinwen , Zhang Ying , He Wei , Wei Qiushi , He Mincong
Published: June 2022

Background

Femoral neck fracture (FNF) is a commonly encountered injury in orthopedic practice, and many studies have been conducted in this field. However, no bibliometric studies regarding the global research trend concerning FNF have been performed. This study aims to analyze the knowledge framework, research hotspots, and theme trends in the field of FNF research.

Methods

The scientific outputs related to FNF from 1994 to 2021 were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection. Three bibliometric tools were used for this study. The main analyses include publication and citation counts, contributions of countries, institutions, authors, funding agencies and journals, and clustering of keywords.

Results

In total, 3,553 articles were identified. The annual publication counts of FNF showed an ascending tendency as a whole. The United States has the most prominent contributions, with the most number of publications and the highest H-index. Karolinska Institutet devoted the most in this domain. Professors Bhandari M, Schemitsch EH, Frihagen F, Parker MJ, and Rogmark C were the core authors in this field. The most productive journal was Injury International Journal of the Care of the Injured. Keywords were divided into four clusters: epidemiology and mortality, fracture prevention, internal-fixation and risk factors, and hip replacement. A trend of balanced and diversified development existed in these clusters. Keywords with the ongoing bursts, including “outcome,” “reoperation,” “complication,” “revision,” “displaced intracapsular,” “fracture,” and “adult,” are considered as the research hotspots in the future and deserve more attention.

Conclusions

The management of FNF in young patients is drawing more attention from orthopedic surgeons, and it is expected that these research topics may continue to be the research hotspots and focus in the near future.
Utilization of Internet Resources by Surgeons for Continuous Professional Development in the Era of Prevailing COVID-19 Pandemic: Trends and Obstacles
Authors: Cimen Sanem Guler , Eraslan Asir , Uysal Fahrettin Samil , Dogan Ahmet Emin , Kokurcan Alihan , Yilmaz Muhammet Sahin , Baylan Burhan , Cimen Sertac
Published: June 2022

Background

To investigate the use of internet resources by surgeons for continuing professional development (CPD).

Results

This cross-sectional study was carried out between July 1, 2021, to October 31, 2021, at the Department of Medicine, Health Sciences University Diskapi Yildirim Beyazit Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey, with participants from nine surgical specialties: General surgery, neurosurgery, orthopedics, urology, plastic surgery, ear-nose-throat surgery, cardiovascular surgery, ophthalmology, and anesthesiology. All study participants were asked to complete a questionnaire comprising 23 questions regarding their age, duration of work experience, appointment status, venue, and time spent on internet resources and preferred online resources for CPD purposes. In addition, participants were divided into two groups according to their appointment status: academic faculty and staff surgeons. Data analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 17.0. The target population consisted of 216 specialists. The survey was completed by 204 (94.4%) surgical specialists. The majority of the specialists (n = 137, 67.2%) reported using the internet for work-related purposes every day. Daily time spent on internet resources was reported to be 30–60 min by 39.2% (n = 80) participants, whereas 52 (25.5%) reported spending less than 30 min. The participants wished to spend more time on internet resources. The majority of surgeons found the hospital and home equally effective in using the internet and preferred to engage alone. The mean age, English language level, usage of online resources, and the attitude score toward the perceived credibility and usefulness of e-resources were significantly higher in the academic faculty group than staff surgeons (p < 0.005). On the other hand, the use of Google/Google scholar was similar between the two groups (p = 0.192). Technical difficulties such as slow internet, need for website registration, and article fees were considered drawbacks for internet resources among all the participants.

Conclusions

This study showed that most surgeons use internet resources daily for CPD and stated they would like to engage longer despite technical difficulties. Institutions should address these technical difficulties.
Effect of Body Mass Index on Outcomes of Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Xu Yan , Huang Xiaolin
Published: June 2022

Objective

The current study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) in obese and overweight individuals based on body mass index (BMI).

Methods

We electronically explored the databases of PubMed, CENTRAL, ScienceDirect, Embase, and Google Scholar databases for all types of comparative studies investigating the role of BMI on PCNL outcomes. Only studies defining obesity as >30 kg/m2 were included. Efficacy outcomes were stone-free rates and operating time while safety outcomes were complications and length of hospital stay (LOS).

Results

Eighteen studies with 101,363 patients were included. We noted no difference in the stone-free rates after PCNL for morbid obese vs normal BMI patients (OR: 0.78 95% CI, 0.57, 1.08 I2 = 7% p = 0.13), overweight vs normal (OR: 1.01 95% CI, 0.89, 1.15 I2 = 1% p = 0.83) and obese vs normal patients (OR: 1.00 95% CI, 0.87, 1.16 I2 = 0% p = 0.95). PCNL operative time was significantly increased in morbid obese (MD: 9.36 95% CI, 2.85, 15.88 I2 = 76% p = 0.005) and obese patients as compared with normal patients (MD: 2.15 95% CI, 1.20, 3.10 I2 = 0% p < 0.00001), but not for overweight patients. There was no difference in the odds of complications between morbid obese vs normal (OR: 1.26 95% CI, 0.93, 1.72 I2 = 0% p = 0.13), overweight vs normal (OR: 1.11 95% CI, 0.96, 1.28 I2 = 0% p = 0.15), and obese vs normal patients (OR: 1.07 95% CI, 0.91, 1.27 I2 = 0% p = 0.40). LOS was significantly reduced in obese patients (MD: −0.12 95% CI, −0.20, −0.04 I2 = 0% p = 0.004) as compared to normal patients, but not for morbid obese or overweight patients.

Conclusion

PCNL has similar efficacy and safety in morbidly obese, obese, and overweight patients as compared to normal BMI patients with no difference in the stone-free and complication rates. Evidence suggests that operating time is increased in morbidly obese and obese patients and the latter may have shorter LOS.

Systematic Review Registration:https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier: CRD42022313599.
Does Intraoperative Blood Loss Affect the Short-Term Outcomes and Prognosis of Gastric Cancer Patients After Gastrectomy? A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wen Ze-Lin , Xiao Da-Chun , Zhou Xiong
Published: June 2022

Purpose

The purpose of the current meta-analysis was to analyze whether intraoperative blood loss (IBL) influenced the complications and prognosis of gastric cancer patients after gastrectomy.

Methods

We systematically searched the PubMed, Embase and Cochrane library databases on November 29, 2021. The Newcastle-Ottawa scale was used to evaluate the quality of included studies. This meta-analysis uses RevMan 5.3 for data analysis.

Results

A total of nine retrospective studies were included in this meta-analysis, involving 4653 patients. In terms of short-term outcomes, the Larger IBL group has a higher complication rate (OR = 1.94, 95% CI, 1.44 to 2.61, P < 0.0001) and a longer operation time (OR = 77.60, 95% CI, 41.95 to 113.25, P < 0.0001) compared with the smaller IBL group, but the Larger IBL group had higher total retrieved lymph nodes (OR = 3.68, 95% CI, 1.13 to 6.24, P = 0.005). After pooling up all the HRs, the Larger IBL group has worse overall survival (OS) (HR = 1.80, 95% CI, 1.27 to 2.56, P = 0.001) and disease-free survival (DFS) (HR = 1.48, 95% CI, 1.28 to 1.72, P < 0.00001).

Conclusion

Larger IBL increased operation time and postoperative complications, and decreased OS and DFS of gastric cancer patients. Therefore, surgeons should be cautious about IBL during operation.
Transcriptome Analysis of Genes Responding to Infection of Leghorn Male Hepatocellular Cells With Fowl Adenovirus Serotype 4
Authors: Wang Xueping P. , Wen Bo , Zhang Xiao J. , Ma Lei , Liang Xiu L. , Zhang Ming L.
Published: June 2022

Fowl adenovirus serotype 4 (FAdV-4) is a highly pathogenic virus with a broad host range that causes huge economic losses for the poultry industry worldwide. RNA sequencing has provided valuable and important mechanistic clues regarding FAdV-4–host interactions. However, the pathogenic mechanism and host's responses after FAdV-4 infection remains limited. In this study, we used transcriptome analysis to identify dynamic changes in differentially expressed genes (DEGs) at five characteristic stages (12, 24, 36, 48, and 60 h) post infection (hpi) with FAdV-4. A total of 8,242 DEGs were identified based on comparison of five infection stages: 0 and 12, 12 and 24, 24 and 36, 36 and 48, and 48 and 60 hpi. In addition, at these five important time points, we found 37 common upregulated or downregulated DEGs, suggesting a common role for these genes in host response to viral infection. The predicted function of these DEGs using Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analyses revealed that these DEGs were associated with viral invasion, host metabolic pathways and host immunosuppression. Interestingly, genes involved in viral invasion, probably EGR1, SOCS3, and THBS1, were related to FAdV-4 infection. Validation of nine randomly selected DEGs using quantitative reverse-transcription PCR produced results that were highly consistent with those of RNA sequencing. This transcriptomic profiling provides valuable information for investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying host–FAdV-4 interactions. These data support the current molecular knowledge regarding FAdV-4 infection and chicken defense mechanisms.
Feasibility of Supplying Ruminally Protected Lysine and Methionine to Periparturient Dairy Cows on the Efficiency of Subsequent Lactation
Authors: Elsaadawy Samy A. , Wu Zhaohai , Bu Dengpan
Published: June 2022

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of supplying ruminally protected Lys (RPL) and ruminally protected Met (RPM) to transition cows' diets on the efficiency of subsequent lactation. A total of 120 prepartum Holstein cows were assigned into four treatments blocked by the anticipated calving date, previous lactation milk yield, number of lactations, and body condition score and fed either RPL, RPM, or the combination (RPML) or control diet (CON) throughout the transition period (3 weeks before till 3 weeks after calving). From 22 to 150 days in milk (DIM), all animals (100 cows) were fed a combination of RPM and RPL (0.17% RPM and 0.41% RPL of DM; n = 25 cows/treatment) as follows; CON–RPML, RPM–RPML, RPL–RPML, and RPML–RPML. Milk production and dry matter intake (DMI) were measured daily; milk and blood samples were taken at 21, 30, 60, 90, 120, and 150 DIM. Supplemented amino acids (AA) were mixed with the premix and added to the total mixed ration during the experiment. DMI (p < 0.001) and energy-corrected milk (ECM, p = 0.04) were higher for cows that were fed RPML–RPML than other cows. Compared with CON–RPML, yields of milk total protein, lactose, and nitrogen efficiency were increased (p < 0.01), whereas milk urea nitrogen (MUN; p = 0.002) was decreased for other treatments. However, supplemental AA did not affect milk lactose percentage, fat yield, feed efficiency, or serum total protein concentration (p > 0.10). Transition cows that consumed AA had a greater peak of milk yield (p < 0.01), as well as quickly reached the peak of milk (p < 0.004). There were differences in β-hydroxybutyrate concentration during the early lactation, with a lower level for AA groups (p < 0.05), and the difference faded with the progression of lactation (p > 0.10). Fertility efficiency as measured by pregnancy rate was improved by supplemental AA during the perinatal period (p < 0.05). In conclusion, transition cows consumed RPM and RPL, increased post-calving DMI, milk production, milk protein yield, nitrogen efficiency, and improved fertility performance.
Fijian Veterinarian and Para-Veterinarians' Behavior, Attitude and Knowledge Toward Antimicrobial Use and Antimicrobial Resistance: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Khan Xavier , Lim Rosemary H. M. , Rymer Caroline , Ray Partha
Published: June 2022

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global health issue affecting humans and livestock. Reduction in antimicrobial use (AMU) and appropriate use of antimicrobials in livestock production systems have been encouraged. Lack of access to qualified veterinarians, policies regulating AMU and knowledge of AMU and AMR have been identified as drivers of inappropriate AMU behavior in developing countries. Hence, para-veterinarians take a lead role in providing veterinary services to livestock farmers in developing countries. Our previous work found Fijian farmers lack knowledge and understanding of AMU and AMR. However, the attitude, knowledge, and behavior of Fijian veterinary professionals toward AMU and AMR is currently unknown. Therefore, this qualitative study used face-to-face, semi-structured interviews to explore and understand Fijian veterinarian and para-veterinarians' attitude, knowledge, and behavior toward AMU and AMR. A sample of at least ten participants was targeted and recruited from the Central and Western divisions of Viti Levu, Fiji. The Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) informed the development of the semi-structured interview guide. The interviews were audio-recorded and analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis and deductively using the TPB framework. Our analysis generated three key themes: 1) Antimicrobials prescribed and used based on availability and cost rather than clinical need, 2) Para-veterinarians awareness and knowledge of AMR influence treatment decisions, and 3) Limited resources impede effective consultation and veterinary service delivery. This study demonstrated para-veterinarians (not veterinarians) lacked knowledge and understanding of AMU and AMR. The availability and cost of antimicrobials rather than clinical justification drove antimicrobial prescribing amongst the para-veterinarians. Veterinarians did not visit farms to provide veterinary services; therefore, para-veterinarians provided the veterinary services to the livestock farmers. Lack of human resources, antimicrobials, and physical resources incapacitated veterinary service delivery, where services to farmers' were delayed or not provided at all. Terms of reference for veterinary service delivery and para-veterinarian training framework targeting prescribing, dispensing, use of antimicrobials and risks associated with inappropriate AMU are recommended as part of antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) programmes. Allocation of physical and human resources to Fijian veterinary services should be considered part of AMS programmes to improve veterinary service delivery to livestock farmers and optimize the AMU at the country level.
A Review: Machine Learning for Combinatorial Optimization Problems in Energy Areas
Authors: Yang Xinyi , Wang Ziyi , Zhang Hengxi , Ma Nan , Yang Ning , Liu Hualin , Zhang Haifeng , Yang Lei
Published: June 2022

Combinatorial optimization problems (COPs) are a class of NP-hard problems with great practical significance. Traditional approaches for COPs suffer from high computational time and reliance on expert knowledge, and machine learning (ML) methods, as powerful tools have been used to overcome these problems. In this review, the COPs in energy areas with a series of modern ML approaches, i.e., the interdisciplinary areas of COPs, ML and energy areas, are mainly investigated. Recent works on solving COPs using ML are sorted out firstly by methods which include supervised learning (SL), deep learning (DL), reinforcement learning (RL) and recently proposed game theoretic methods, and then problems where the timeline of the improvements for some fundamental COPs is the layout. Practical applications of ML methods in the energy areas, including the petroleum supply chain, steel-making, electric power system and wind power, are summarized for the first time, and challenges in this field are analyzed.
Identification Strategy Design with the Solution of Wavelet Singular Spectral Entropy Algorithm for the Aerodynamic System Instability
Authors: Zhang Mingming , Kong Pan , Hou Anping , Xia Aiguo , Tuo Wei , Lv Yongzhao
Published: June 2022

In order to effectively identify the signs of instability in the aerodynamic system of an axial compressor, a wavelet singular spectral entropy algorithm incorporated within the wavelet transform, singular value decomposition and information entropy is proposed to describe the distribution complexity of the spatial modalities in the flow field. This kind of identification design can accurately distinguish the boundary between the stable and unstable states of the internal flow field from the view of a dynamic system. On the basis of the information entropy algorithm, the wavelet singular spectral entropy algorithm is designed to integrate with the advantages of wavelet transform analysis on the time-frequency localization and singular value decomposition for signal processing and data mining together. So that the quantitative analysis of the definition of rebuilding a system image can be achieved by the solution of wavelet singular spectral entropy. This method can automatically extract the transient information of the space mode in the time-frequency domain. It effectively avoids the shortcoming that the feature extraction on spatial information cannot be accomplished from multiple angles with the single information entropy algorithm. In the data processing of instability signals under different speeds, the wavelet singular spectral entropy algorithm shows a greater advantage in the early warning for compressor stall. The result shows that the value of the wavelet singular spectral shows an obvious mutation when the aerodynamic system approaches the instability boundary. According to the threshold set, the identification hybrid algorithm can detect the stall precursor about 23~96 r in advance. Compared to the single information entropy algorithm, the hybrid wavelet singular spectral entropy algorithm is able to shift to an earlier precursor identification by about 11~82 r. This established hybrid identification algorithm accounts for the nonlinearity of the aerodynamic system, providing a new perspective for the nonlinear system instability identification.
High-Quality Bioethanol and Vinegar Production from Saudi Arabia Dates: Characterization and Evaluation of Their Value and Antioxidant Efficiency
Authors: Hamden Zeineb , El-Ghoul Yassine , Alminderej Fahad M. , Saleh Sayed M. , Majdoub Hatem
Published: June 2022

Dates are very rich in various nutritious compounds, especially reducing sugars. Sugars ensure both anaerobic and aerobic fermentation, carried out respectively for the production of bioethanol and vinegar. Currently, the world production of dates is constantly increasing owing to the significant improvement in production conditions following the continuous scientific and technological development of this field. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is one of the most important world producers of dates, occupying the second place by producing 17% of the total world production. This is why it has become a national priority to find new ways to exploit and further valorize dates and palm waste in the development of new and sustainable products. The present study was designed to explore the possible study of a variety of date palm by-products in the production of bioethanol and vinegar via Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Different parameters of bioethanol and vinegar production, including pH, time, fermentation temperature, and yeast concentration, were studied and optimized. Chemical, physicochemical, purity behavior, and antioxidant performance were carried out via NMR, FTIR, and antioxidant activity essays (TPC, DPPH, FRAP, and β-carotene bleaching test) with the aim to evaluate the potential of the bioethanol and vinegar samples extracted from date palm by-products. Khalas date vinegar revealed significantly more phenolic content (5.81 mg GAE/mL) (p < 0.05) than the different kinds of vinegar tested (Deglet Nour and Black dates; 2.3 and 1.67 mg GAE/mL, respectively) and the commercial vinegar (1.12 mg GAE/mL). The Khalas date vinegar generally showed a higher carotenoid value and better antioxidant activity than the other vinegars extracted from other date varieties and commercially available vinegar. The results confirmed the high quality of the bioethanol and vinegar products, and the efficiency of the developed production processes.
Defect Recognition and Morphology Operation in Binary Images Using Line-Scanning-Based Induction Thermography
Authors: Lee Seungju , Chung Yoonjae , Kim Wontae
Published: June 2022

Active infrared thermography is an attractive and highly reliable technique used for the non-destructive evaluation of test objects. In this paper, defect detection on the subsurface of the STS304 metal specimen was performed by applying the line-scanning method to induction thermography. In general, the infrared camera and the specimen are fixed in induction thermography, but the line-scanning method can excite a uniform heat source because relative movement occurs. After that, the local heating area due to Joule’s heating effect was removed, and filtering was applied for the 1st de-noising. Threshold-value-based binarization processing using the Otsu algorithm was performed for clear defect object recognition. After performing the 2nd de-noising, automatic defect recognition was performed using a boundary tracking algorithm. As a result, the conditions due to the parameters of the scanning line for the thermal image were determined.
Machine Learning-Powered Rainfall-Based Landslide Predictions in Hong Kong—An Exploratory Study
Authors: Li Helen Wai Ming , Lo Frankie Leung Chak , Wong Thomas Kwok Chi , Cheung Raymond Wai Man
Published: June 2022

Practical landslide predictions are instrumental to effective landslide risk management. Recently, the use of machine learning (ML) has become a promising alternative means for landslide predictions. This paper discusses the recent progress of a pilot study of ML-powered rainfall-based natural terrain landslide susceptibility analysis in Hong Kong. This study is different to other similar studies in that: (1) data sampling commonly used to deal with an imbalanced dataset is not adopted, and (2) the incorporation of domain knowledge on landslide characteristics for the development of physically meaningful ML models. The results are found to be promising, with the achieved ROC AUC up to 91.5% based on the testing data. The resolution of the susceptibility map is enhanced by approximately three orders of magnitude further than the introduction of additional features critically selected with feature engineering and based on domain knowledge and past experiences.
Modeling and Analysis of Meteorological Contour Matching with Remote Sensor Data for Navigation
Authors: Catalano Louis A. , Hu Zhiyong , Sevil Hakki Erhan
Published: June 2022

This paper outlines the methods, results, and statistical analysis of a model we developed to demonstrate the feasibility of applying remote sensor meteorological data to navigation by using meteorological contour matching (METCOM). Terrain contour matching (TERCOM), a contemporary navigation system, possesses inherent performance flaws that may be resolved and improved by METCOM for subsonic and hypersonic missile or aircraft navigation. Remote sensor imagery data for this model was accessed from the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites-R Series operated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration by using Amazon Web Services through a script we developed in Python. Data processed for the model included imagery data and corresponding geospatial data from the legacy atmospheric profile products: legacy vertical temperature and legacy vertical moisture. Our analysis of the model included an error assessment to determine model accuracy, geostatistical analysis through semivariograms, meteorological signal of model data, and a combinatorial analysis to evaluate navigation performance. We conducted a model assessment which indicated an accuracy of 66.2% in the data used as a combined result of instrument error and interference of cloud formations. Results of the remaining analysis offered methods to evaluate METCOM performance and compare different meteorological data products. These results allowed us to statistically compare METCOM and TERCOM, yielding several indications of improved performance including an increase by a factor of at least 13.5 in data variability and contourability. The analysis we conducted served as a proof of concept to justify further research into the feasibility and application of METCOM.
Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in Italy over the Past Five Years: A Systematic Review
Authors: Montalti Marco , Soldà Giorgia , Capodici Angelo , Di Valerio Zeno , Gribaudo Giorgia , La Fauci Giusy , Salussolia Aurelia , Scognamiglio Francesca , Zannoner Anna , Gori Davide
Published: June 2022

Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) has become a global threat to public health systems around the world in recent decades. In 2017, Italy was placed among the worst-performing nations in Europe by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, due to worryingly high levels of AMR in Italian hospitals and regions. The aim of this systematic review was to investigate the state of the art of research on AMR in Italy over the last five years. The PubMed database was searched to identify studies presenting original data. Forty-three of the 9721 records identified were included. Overall, AMR rates ranged from 3% (in a group of sheep farmers) to 78% (in a hospital setting). The methods used to identify the microorganisms, to test their susceptibility and the criteria adopted for the breakpoint were deficient in 7, 7 and 11 studies, respectively. The main findings of our review were that most studies (79.1%) considered hospitalised patients only, 4 studies (9.3%) analysed non-hospitalised populations only. In addition, only 7 studies were multicentric and no scientific literature on the subject was produced in 7 Italian regions. In order to have a solid basis on the topic for the interventions of public health professionals and other stakeholders, studies analysing the phenomenon should be conducted in a methodologically standardised manner, should include all areas of the country and should also focus on out-of-hospital and community-based care and work settings.
NAFLD: Mechanisms, Treatments, and Biomarkers
Authors: Nassir Fatiha
Published: June 2022

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), recently renamed metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), is one of the most common causes of liver diseases worldwide. NAFLD is growing in parallel with the obesity epidemic. No pharmacological treatment is available to treat NAFLD, specifically. The reason might be that NAFLD is a multi-factorial disease with an incomplete understanding of the mechanisms involved, an absence of accurate and inexpensive imaging tools, and lack of adequate non-invasive biomarkers. NAFLD consists of the accumulation of excess lipids in the liver, causing lipotoxicity that might progress to metabolic-associated steatohepatitis (NASH), liver fibrosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. The mechanisms for the pathogenesis of NAFLD, current interventions in the management of the disease, and the role of sirtuins as potential targets for treatment are discussed here. In addition, the current diagnostic tools, and the role of non-coding RNAs as emerging diagnostic biomarkers are summarized. The availability of non-invasive biomarkers, and accurate and inexpensive non-invasive diagnosis tools are crucial in the detection of the early signs in the progression of NAFLD. This will expedite clinical trials and the validation of the emerging therapeutic treatments.