bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Avian metapneumovirus: A five-plex digital droplet RT-PCR method for identification of subgroups A, B, C, and D
Authors: Lemaitre Evelyne , Bougeard Stéphanie , Allée Chantal , Eterradossi Nicolas , Courtillon Céline , Brown Paul Alun
Published: November 2022

End-point and real-time avian metapneumovirus (AMPV) RT-PCRs have been developed to detect one or two of the four recognized subgroups (A,B,C, and D) simultaneously or for broad range AMPV detection. Current subgroup specific tests target variable areas of the genome which makes these PCRs sensitive to specificity defects as recently documented. In the current study, a single five-plex digital droplet RT-PCR targeting the conserved viral polymerase gene of AMPV, which is less prone to genetic drift, has been designed. This digital droplet RT-PCR was capable of identifying each of the four AMPV subgroups. Each subgroup was identified according to a specifically assigned fluorescent amplitude. Specificity, which was tested including 31 AMPV strains, non-AMPV avian viruses and closely related human respiratory viruses, was 100%. The specific limit of detection for extracted viral RNA was estimated between 1 and 3 copies/μl. This tool simplifies the number of tests required for AMPV genotype diagnostics and should be theoretically less effected by viral genome evolution due to its target region. Ultimately, application of this test will contribute to an improved understanding of the global geographic distribution and subgroup host range of field strains.
Optimal Earth Gravity-Assist Maneuvers with an Electric Solar Wind Sail
Authors: Niccolai Lorenzo , Bassetto Marco , Quarta Alessandro A. , Mengali Giovanni
Published: November 2022

Propellantless propulsive systems such as Electric Solar Wind Sails are capable of accelerating a deep-space probe, only requiring a small amount of propellant for attitude and spin-rate control. However, the generated thrust magnitude is usually small when compared with the local Sun’s gravitational attraction. Therefore, the total velocity change necessary for the mission is often obtained at the expense of long flight times. A possible strategy to overcome this issue is offered by an Earth gravity-assist maneuver, in which a spacecraft departs from the Earth’s sphere of influence, moves in the interplanetary space, and then re-encounters the Earth with an increased hyperbolic excess velocity with respect to the starting planet. An Electric Solar Wind Sail could effectively drive the spacecraft in the interplanetary space to perform such a particular maneuver, taking advantage of an augmented thrust magnitude in the vicinity of the Sun due to the increased solar wind ion density. This work analyzes Earth gravity-assist maneuvers performed with an Electric Solar Wind Sail based probe within an optimal framework, in which the final hyperbolic excess velocity with respect to the Earth is maximized for a given interplanetary flight time. Numerical simulations highlight the effectiveness of this maneuver in obtaining a final heliocentric orbit with high energy.
A Practical Hybrid Control Approach for a Greenhouse Microclimate: A Hardware-in-the-Loop Implementation
Authors: Cevallos Gustavo , Herrera Marco , Jaimez Ramon , Aboukheir Hanna , Camacho Oscar
Published: November 2022

In the present work, a hybrid scheme based on the on–off, PID, and Fuzzy-PI controllers is shown, which was applied to the model of a greenhouse for the control of the vapor pressure deficit inside the greenhouse (VPDin) through variables for heating and cooling around operating points 0.55 (kPa) and 1.0 (kPa), respectively. The implementation of the hybrid scheme was carried out under the concept of hardware-in-the-loop. The performance tests indicated satisfactory results that can be applied to greenhouses.
Phenolic Profiles, Antioxidant, Antibacterial Activities and Nutritional Value of Vietnamese Honey from Different Botanical and Geographical Sources
Authors: Pham Tri Nhut , Nguyen Thanh Viet , Le Dang Truong , Diep Le Minh Nhat , Nguyen Kieu Ngoan , To Thi Huynh Nhu , Le Tien Hung , Nguyen Quang Vinh
Published: November 2022

Honey is a natural product made by honeybees, its composition depends on factors such as climate, soil and plant source. In this study, the nutritional parameters, phenolic composition, antioxidant activity and antibacterial ability of 30 different types of honey of different botanical and geographical origins in Vietnam were investigated. The study focused on the characterization and evaluation of the influence of plant origin and geographical location on physical–chemical properties and biological activities (antioxidant and antibacterial). The obtained results show that all honey samples meet quality standards according to international standards and Vietnamese standards, except for some exceptions recorded in moisture, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) value and ash. These samples were explored for the detection of 13 polyphenols by using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The classification of honey samples collected from different regions and botanical sources was performed by principal component analysis (PCA), and it was observed that certain phenolic compounds contributed to the identification of honey samples. In addition, the correlation between physicochemical properties, chemical composition and biological activity of most honeys was also first clarified in this study. Overall, our data provide an overview data set and essential results in creating a database on the world honey trait map.
Physio-Biochemical Responses of Three Aquilegia Species Seedlings to Salt Stress
Authors: Chen Lifei , Meng Yuan , Jiang Dawei , Yang Fengrui , Zhou Yunwei
Published: November 2022

Road deicing salts are widely used during winter in northern China, which makes it essential to choose proper salt-tolerant plant species in urban landscapes. Columbine (Aquilegia) is a herb with high ornamental and commercial values. This study evaluated three Aquilegia species (A. oxysepala, A. parviflora, and A. viridiflora) for salt tolerance by monitoring their germination state under different electrical conductivity (EC) of 0.1 dS·m−1 (distilled water), 1.0 dS·m−1, 2.0 dS·m−1, 3.0 dS·m−1, 4.0 dS·m−1, 5.0 dS·m−1, 6.0 dS·m−1, physio-biochemical responses to different EC of 0.3 dS·m−1 (tap water), 5.0 dS·m−1, and 10.0 dS·m−1. The germination and growth parameters, visual scores, dry weight, leaf stomatal conductance, photosynthetic rate, and chlorophyll contents of three species decreased under salt stress, which was opposite to the changes of electrolyte leakage, malondialdehyde, proline, and soluble sugar contents. Superoxide dismutase and peroxidase activity trend differently among species. These results showed that the germination threshold of three species was 6.0 dS·m−1. A. oxysepala was the most salt-tolerant species, with a tolerance threshold of soil conductivity in 2.83 dS·m−1, followed by A. viridiflora and A. parviflora. Therefore, A. oxysepala is suitable for planting as a ground cover in urban areas where deicing salt is applied.
Genetic Variation and Stability Analysis of an Artificially Synthesized Allohexaploid Brassica for Breeding Innovations
Authors: Yang Su , Zhang Kangni , Lu Chenze , Chen Guangna , Huang Qian , Ulhassan Zaid , Wei Ji’an , Farooq Muhammad Ahsan , Zhou Weijun
Published: November 2022

Allopolyploids play an essential role in plant evolution and confer apparent advantages on crop growth and breeding compared to low ploidy levels. A doubled haploid (DH) population derived from the cross between two artificially synthesized allohexaploid Brassica was created and self-crossed continuously. Morphological and yield-related traits showed considerable variation among different generations, different families and even within the same families. However, the flowering time, pollen viability and seed yield increased gradually during the selfing process. Ploidy level estimation and karyotyping analysis revealed that this population was chimeras with varied chromosome numbers within an identical plant. Chromosome translocations analysis showed that the B genome was more instable compared to the A and C genomes. The A genome was more prone to chromosome recombination than the C genome. Although some genomic regions were more likely to be duplicated, deleted, or rearranged, a consensus pattern was not shared between different progenies. This research deepened our understanding of the genetic variation of artificially synthesized allohexaploid Brassica. In addition, the allohexaploid Brassica can be used as a bridge to transfer some of the valuable traits blocked by reproductive barriers from wild Brassica species to cultivated species such as cold and drought resistance, etc.
Weed Community in Soybean Responses to Agricultural Management Systems
Authors: Stefanic Edita , Rasic Sanda , Lucic Pavo , Tolic Snjezana , Zima Dinko , Antunovic Slavica , Japundžić-Palenkić Božica , Stefanic Ivan
Published: November 2022

Weed infestation is a major cause of the poor yield of soybeans (Glycine max (L.) Merr.); therefore, proper weed management represents one of the most important and expensive steps in soybean production. Field experiments were established in northeastern parts of Croatia, in the Vukovar-Syrmia county from 2014 to 2016, arranged in a split-plot design with four replications. Two different studies were conducted: the first study was to determine the weed interference, weed biomass accumulation, yield, and yield components of soybeans growing in three different rows spacing (25, 50, and 70 cm), and the second study aimed to simulate a risk analysis by building models of probabilities for generating profit as a result of weed control. The weed community in soybean during the study period comprised 34 dicot and grass species of a varied perennation. Compositional differences in the weed community tended to be affected most by the year (humid–arid environment), followed by row spacing. There were no differences in the weed biomass accumulation with a reduction in row spacing from 70 to 50 and 25 cm. The dominant weed species Amaranthus retroflexus, Ambrosia artemisiifolia, Chenopodium album, Datura stramonium, Setaria viridis, and Sorghum halepense formed the main biomass and were spread over all row spacings. There was a significant influence of row spacing, the duration of weed interference, and year on soybean yield and yield components. Weed infestation until the second trifoliate (V2) stage had no detrimental effect on soybean yield, regardless of the row spacing. The number of pods per plant significantly decreased at the same V2 stage in 25 and 50-cm rows, but in 70-cm soybean rows, this process started later, at four unfolded trifoliate leaves (V4 stage). A 1000 kernel weight was less sensitive to weed infestation and was significantly decreased at full flowering (R2 stage) in 25 and 70 cm rows, while it already decreased at the V4 stage in 50 cm rows. The probability distribution of achieving a profit showed the best results for soybeans growing in 70 cm rows, with preemergence herbicide application and two inter-row cultivation.
Infrared Thermography for Early Identification and Treatment of Shoulder Sores to Improve Sow and Piglet Welfare
Authors: Staveley Lauren M. , Zemitis Jessica E. , Plush Kate J. , D'Souza Darryl N.
Published: November 2022

Shoulder sores in sows cause pain, may lead to early weaning and resultant piglet distress, and premature culling. Early detection and intervention is key to avoid these substantial production and welfare imposts. In this experiment we tested infrared thermography (IRT) to identify shoulder sores before wound eruption, and effectiveness of four wound healing treatments; mānuka honey (n = 11); Derisal® (n = 11); Chloromide® (n = 13) and Repiderma® (n = 16), all of which contain no antibiotics. Three hundred and ten sows (parity 2.3 ± 0.2) were monitored daily from entry to the farrowing sheds until weaning using a thermal camera. IRT successfully detected 88% of shoulder sores as hot spots and provided a lead in time of 7 days. Sixteen percent of all sows had a hotspot detected and were randomly allocated to one of four daily treatment groups. At the end of the treatment period, sore diameter was significantly reduced for all treatments, except the Repiderma® group. Sow traits had little influence on susceptibility to shoulder sores. There may be a link between prewean mortality and shoulder sores, but this requires further investigation. The use of IRT to monitor for hotspots for early intervention is validated. Future work should concentrate on methods to prevent wound eruption after detection with IRT to improve the health and welfare of both the sow and her litter.
To Save Pangolins: A Nutritional Perspective
Authors: Wang Xin-Mei , Janssens Geert P. J. , Xie Chun-Gang , Xie Bo-Wen , Xie Zhi-Gang , He Hai-Jian , Wang Yan-Ni , Xu Jia
Published: November 2022

Pangolins are one of the world’s most trafficked mammals. Since pangolins are highly adapted to ants and termites, they are important for controlling forest termite infestations. In addition to their ecological value, pangolins have economic and medicinal value. Currently, poaching and habitat destruction have radically reduced the number of pangolins, and Manis pentadactyla, Manis javanica, and Manis culionensis are now considered the most threatened pangolin species. In addition to the control of hunting and illegal trade, ex situ breeding is also a useful conservation method. However, many technical obstacles still limit the success of ex situ pangolin breeding. The special feeding traits of pangolins require a diet that meets nutritional and ethological needs. Based on the existing literature and practical experience, this review aims to compare the natural diet and successful diet in the human care of pangolins, to outline the key factors of successful ex situ maintenance from a dietary perspective, and the strategies to improve their conservation success in animal care centers and in the wild. The type of food used in successful pangolin protection agencies is quite variable in nutritional composition. In the diet of pangolins in the wild, the nutrient profile of different species of termites and ants and even the same species of termites and ants but different types (queens, soldiers, etc.) also displays differences. The crude protein content of some ants is higher than that of other foods, such as eggs, milk, and common cat food. The mineral and vitamin concentrations of ants also exceed many common food items, such as oil, meat, and eggs. However, not much is known about the bioavailability of minerals from ants and termites. Based on comparisons between foods, it is clear that the main difference between diets in the wild and in human care of pangolins is that the latter contains fewer insects and vitamins, such as vitamin E, vitamin A, and vitamin B2, and more carbohydrates and non-protein substances than the former. Although many successful dietary formulae have been developed, the pangolin’s nutritional needs are still less well studied. A diet with the nutrient concentrations observed in the wild may add to successful ex situ conservation.
Use of Microorganisms as Nutritional and Functional Feedstuffs for Nursery Pigs and Broilers
Authors: Cheng Yi-Chi , Kim Sung Woo
Published: November 2022

The objectives of this review paper are to introduce the structures and composition of various microorganisms, to show some applications of single cells as alternative protein supplements or energy feeds in swine and poultry diets, and to discuss the functional effects of microorganisms as feed additives on the growth performance and intestinal health of nursery pigs and broilers. Microorganisms, including bacteria, yeasts, and microalgae, have been commonly supplemented in animal diets because they are cost-effective, stable, and have quantitative production that provides nutritional and functional benefits to pigs and broilers. Microorganisms could be alternative antibiotics to enhance intestinal health due to bioactive components from cell wall components, which interact with receptors on epithelial and immune cells. In addition, bioactive components could be digested by intestinal microbiota to produce short-chain fatty acids and enhance energy utilization. Otherwise, microorganisms such as single-cell protein (SCP) and single-cell oils (SCOs) are sustainable and economic choices to replace conventional protein supplements and energy feeds. Supplementing microorganisms as feedstuffs and feed additives improved the average daily gain by 1.83%, the daily feed intake by 0.24%, and the feed efficiency by 1.46% in pigs and broilers. Based on the properties of each microorganism, traditional protein supplements, energy feeds, and functional feed additives could be replaced by microorganisms, which have shown benefits to animal’s growth and health. Therefore, specific microorganisms could be promising alternatives as nutritional and functional feedstuffs in animal diets.
Molecular Detection and Multilocus Genotyping of Giardia duodenalis in Pigs in Fujian Province, Southeastern China
Authors: Zhao Fu-Rong , Zhang Ning , Miao Wen-Yuan , Wu Ran , Cui Lin-Lin , Huang Cui-Qin , Zhou Dong-Hui
Published: November 2022

Giardia duodenalis, an intestinal parasite, is widely distributed in humans and various animals, such as pigs, cattle and cats. The clinical symptoms of giardiasis are characterized as including abdominal pain, acute or chronic diarrhea, and bloating and weight loss in humans and animals, leading to public and veterinary health problems worldwide. However, the prevalence and genotypes of G. duodenalis in pigs in Fujian Province, southeastern China, have not been reported. In the present study, 725 fecal samples were collected from six cities (Fuqing, Putian, Nanping, Longyan, Sanming, Zhangzhou) in Fujian Province and analyzed for G. duodenalis prevalence and genotypes using nested PCR targeting the beta-giardin (bg), glutamate dehydrogenase (gdh) and triosephosphate isomerase (tpi) genes. The results shown that total occurrence rate of G. duodenalis was 26.9% (195/725) in pigs, with significant differences in the prevalence among different regions (χ2 = 86.508, p < 0.05) and groups (χ2 = 12.748, p < 0.05). 195, 11 and 6 samples were detected at the bg, tpi and gdh loci, respectively. Each one belonged to a subtype of assemblage E and was analyzed using sequences obtained in this study. Based on phylogenetic analyses of sequences from the three genetic loci, only one MLG E1 was found. The results indicated that pigs may present a potential zoonotic risk of spreading G. duodenalis infection from animals to humans in this area. The findings of the present study also provide basic data for the prevention and control of G. duodenalis infection in pigs and humans in China.
Epidemiology and In Vitro Activity of Ceftazidime/Avibactam, Meropenem/Vaborbactam and Imipenem/Relebactam against KPC-Producing K. pneumoniae Collected from Bacteremic Patients, 2018 to 2020
Authors: Bovo Federica , Lombardo Donatella , Lazzarotto Tiziana , Ambretti Simone , Gaibani Paolo
Published: November 2022

The management of KPC-producing K. pneumoniae (KPC-Kp) in bloodstream infections (BSIs) represent a serious clinical challenge. In this study, the aim is to assess the incidence of resistance to novel β-lactams-β-lactamase inhibitor combinations (βL-βLICs), such as ceftazidime-avibactam (CAZ-AVI), meropenem-vaborbactam (MER-VAB) and imipenem-relebactam (IMI-REL), in KPC-Kp strains collected during a three-year period from patients with bacteremia. KPC-Kp strains resistant to βL-βLICs were selected for whole-genome sequencing. A total of 133 K. pneumoniae strains were isolated, and KPC-Kp strains were the most represented (87.2%). In 2018, resistance to CAZ-AVI and MER-VAB was 6.5% and 14.5%, respectively. In 2019, KPC-Kp resistance to CAZ-AVI and MER-VAB remained at low levels, with values of 12.9% and 3.2%, respectively. During 2020, CAZ-AVI resistance was detected in 2/23 of KPC-Kp strains (8.7%). IMI-REL was the most active βL-βLIC, inhibiting >98% of the isolates, while CAZ-AVI and MER-VAB inhibited 87–93% and 85–97% of the KPC producers, respectively. Correlations between genotypic traits and resistance to βL-βLICs showed that KPC-Kp strains resistant to CAZ-AVI harbored a mutation within the blaKPC-3 gene, while all KPC-Kp strains resistant to CAZ-AVI, MER-VAB and/or IMI-REL carried the blaKPC-3 gene. Moreover, genetic analysis of porin genes showed that 14/16 of KPC-Kp resistant isolates possessed a truncated OmpK35 and glycine (G) and aspartic acid (D) insertions at positions 134–135 within OmpK36, whereas 2/16 displayed truncated OmpK35 and OmpK36 porins. Novel βL-βLICs are promising agents against KPC-Kp infections; however, the emergence of resistance to these agents highlights the need for continuous surveillance and application of enhanced antimicrobial stewardship.
Antioxidant, Anti-Obesity, and Hypolipidemic Effects of Polyphenol Rich Star Anise (Illicium verum) Tea in High-Fat-Sugar Diet-Induced Obesity Rat Model
Authors: Iftikhar Neelam , Hussain Abdullah Ijaz , Kamal Ghulam Mustafa , Manzoor Sidra , Fatima Tabinda , Alswailmi Farhan Khashim , Ahmad Ashfaq , Alsuwayt Bader , Abdullah Alnasser Sulaiman Mohammed
Published: November 2022

Star anise (Illicium verum Hook. fil.) is commonly utilized as a culinary and medicinal fruit and is most famous in indigenous systems of medicine. The present research work aims to appraise and validate the potential of polyphenol-rich star anise tea (SAT) on oxidative stress, obesity and related biochemical parameters in high-fat-sugar-diet (HFSD)-induced obesity model in rats. SAT was prepared using the traditional method in warm water. The Reverse Phase High Pressure Liquid Chromatography (RP-HPLC) analysis was performed for the simultaneous determination of phenolic acids and flavonoids in SAT. Two doses (250 and 500 mg/kg body weight) were selected to investigate the anti-obesity potential of SAT using HFSD-induced obese rat model. Major (>5 mg/100 mL) phenolic acids in SAT were p-coumeric acid, gallic aid, cinamic acid, chlorogenic acid and ferulic acid while catechin and rutin were the major flavonoids detected in the SAT. SAT exhibited 51.3% DPPH radical scavenging activity. In vivo study showed that higher doses of SAT (500 mg/kg body weight) significantly reduced the body weight increase (74.82%) and BMI (0.64 g/cm2). Moreover, significant reductions in the levels of serum total cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL and VLDL were recorded in all the treatment groups in comparison to the HFSDC group. Furthermore, SAT reduced the alterations in MDA, SOD and GSH levels of experimental groups thus showing the potential against oxidative stress. The SAT-500 group showed a significant decrease in the elevated kidney and liver weights and atherogenic index in comparison to the HFSDC group. The present study proved that SAT exhibited strong protective effects against obesity and oxidative stress, especially at higher doses.
Melatonin–Microbiome Two-Sided Interaction in Dysbiosis-Associated Conditions
Authors: Iesanu Mara Ioana , Zahiu Carmen Denise Mihaela , Dogaru Ioana-Alexandra , Chitimus Diana Maria , Pircalabioru Gratiela Gradisteanu , Voiculescu Suzana Elena , Isac Sebastian , Galos Felicia , Pavel Bogdan , O’Mahony Siobhain M. , Zagrean Ana-Maria
Published: November 2022

Melatonin is a pineal indolamine, allegedly known as a circadian rhythm regulator, and an antioxidative and immunomodulatory molecule. In both experimental and clinical trials, melatonin has been shown to have positive effects in various pathologies, as a modulator of important biochemical pathways including inflammation, oxidative stress, cell injury, apoptosis, and energy metabolism. The gut represents one of melatonin’s most abundant extra pineal sources, with a 400-times-higher concentration than the pineal gland. The importance of the gut microbial community—namely, the gut microbiota, in multiple critical functions of the organism— has been extensively studied throughout time, and its imbalance has been associated with a variety of human pathologies. Recent studies highlight a possible gut microbiota-modulating role of melatonin, with possible implications for the treatment of these pathologies. Consequently, melatonin might prove to be a valuable and versatile therapeutic agent, as it is well known to elicit positive functions on the microbiota in many dysbiosis-associated conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease, chronodisruption-induced dysbiosis, obesity, and neuropsychiatric disorders. This review intends to lay the basis for a deeper comprehension of melatonin, gut microbiota, and host-health subtle interactions.
Numerical Simulation of Airflow Distribution in a Pregnant Sow Piggery with Centralized Ventilation
Authors: Wei Xinyu , Li Bin , Lu Huazhong , Lü Enli , Guo Jiaming , Jiang Yihong , Zeng Zhixiong
Published: November 2022

(1) Background: The thermal environment in a pregnant sow piggery is affected by physical parameters such as air temperature, relative humidity, and airflow velocity. However, it is challenging to conduct experimental studies due to the high cost. (2) Methods: Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) was used to study the distribution characteristics of airflow in a pregnant sow piggery with centralized ventilation. (3) Results: The results show that the maximum difference between the simulated and experimental temperature was less than 1.54 °C, and the simulated and tested relative humidity difference was less than 10% RH. Incorporation of a middle air outlet is beneficial for increasing the uniformity of temperature distribution, as studied by comparing the temperature and humidity uniformity coefficient of the two air outlet locations, but the uniformity of humidity distribution will be reduced. With an increase in velocity, the temperature shows a downward trend and the relative humidity shows an upward trend. (4) Conclusions: The most suitable position for the outlet is the middle, with an associated airflow velocity of 0.5 m/s. This study revealed the variation in flow field distribution and air distribution in the pregnant sow piggery as a consequence of changes in ventilation structure, which has certain significance as a reference for the optimization of airflow in intensive pregnant sow piggeries.
Cluster Analysis of Soluble Organic Fractions in Two Low-Rank Coals
Authors: Wang Xiaohua , He Xin
Published: November 2022

A brief overview of the composition and structure of soluble organic compounds as well as organic macromolecules in coal is sufficient to support the development of the coal chemical industry and realize the clean, effective, and high value-added exploitation of coal. In this study, 14 groups of extracts were analyzed by a gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer; seven stages of solvent-graded extraction were carried out on two typical low-rank coals, and the extracted substance spectrum data were processed by principal component analysis and cluster analysis to investigate the molecular makeup and structure of the soluble organic compounds in the two coals. CS2 had a better extraction effect on aromatic hydrocarbons, and methanol was better for the enrichment and separation of oxygenated compounds. Hexane and petroleum ethers have a good extraction effect for aliphatic hydrocarbons; benzene has a good effect for the extraction of nitrogenous compounds; acetone has a greater extraction rate for alcohols; tetrahydrofuran has a more obvious extraction effect for ketones; the mixed solvent of tetrahydrofuran and methanol has a greater extraction rate for esters.
Bacteria in Soil: Promising Bioremediation Agents in Arid and Semi-Arid Environments for Cereal Growth Enhancement
Authors: Rai Abdelwahab , Belkacem Mohamed , Assadi Imen , Bollinger Jean-Claude , Elfalleh Walid , Assadi Aymen Amine , Amrane Abdeltif , Mouni Lotfi
Published: November 2022

In arid regions, starchy agricultural products such as wheat and rice provide essential carbohydrates, minerals, fibers and vitamins. However, drought, desiccation, high salinity, potentially toxic metals and hydrocarbon accumulation are among the most notable stresses affecting soil quality and cereal production in arid environments. Certain soil bacteria, referred to as Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR), colonize the plant root environment, providing beneficial advantages for both soil and plants. Beyond their ability to improve plant growth under non-stressed conditions, PGPR can establish symbiotic and non-symbiotic interactions with plants growing under stress conditions, participating in soil bioremediation, stress alleviation and plant growth restoration. Moreover, the PGPR ability to fix nitrogen, to solubilize insoluble forms of nutrients and to produce other metabolites such as siderophores, phytohormones, antibiotics and hydrolytic enzymes makes them ecofriendly alternatives to the excessive use of unsuitable and cost-effective chemicals in agriculture. The most remarkable PGPR belong to the genera Arthrobacter, Azospirillum, Azotobacter, Bacillus, Enterobacter, Klebsiella, Pseudomonas, etc. Therefore, high cereal production in arid environments can be ensured using PGPR. Herein, the potential role of such bacteria in promoting wheat and rice production under both normal and derelict soils is reviewed and highlighted.
An Analytical Solution to Steady-State Temperature Field in the FSPR Method Considering Different Soil Freezing Points
Authors: Duan Yin , Rong Chuanxin , Huang Xianwen , Long Wei
Published: November 2022

Taking the freeze-sealing pipe roof method (FSPR) adopted in the Gongbei Tunnel project as the background, this study develops a simplified calculation model by considering different soil freezing points, tube layout, and site conditions. The analytical solution of the linear single row tubes is then used to formulate the analytical solution of the freezing temperature field of two kinds of linear single row tubes, with equal spacing in the image plane. This is achieved through conformal mapping and the variable separation method. Finally, the analytical solution to the steady-state temperature field of FSPR in the object plane is obtained. The numerical solutions of common freezing parameters in freezing engineering are analyzed to evaluate the accuracy of the analytical solution, and the influence of parameter differences on the freezing temperature field are also discussed, to provide a theoretical reference for popularization and application of similar construction methods.
Estimating Muscle Power of the Lower Limbs through the 5-Sit-to-Stand Test: A Comparison of Field vs. Laboratory Method
Authors: Ferrari Luca , Bochicchio Gianluca , Bottari Alberto , Lucertini Francesco , Scarton Alessandra , Pogliaghi Silvia
Published: November 2022

The 5-Sit-to-stand test (5STS) is used for lower limb muscle power (MP) determination in field/clinical setting. From the time taken to perform five standing movements and three partially verified assumptions (vertical displacement, mean concentric time, and mean force), MP is estimated as the body’s vertical velocity x force. By comparison with a gold standard, laboratory approach (motion capture system and force plate), we aimed to: (1) verify the assumptions; (2) assess the accuracy of the field-estimated MP (MPfield); (3) develop and validate an optimized estimation (MPfield-opt). In 63 older adults (67 ± 6 years), we compared: (i) estimated and measured assumptions (2-WAY RM ANOVA), (ii) MPfield and MPfield-opt with the reference/laboratory method (MPlab) (2-WAY RM ANOVA, Pearson’s correlation coefficient (r), Bland-Altman analysis). There was a significant difference between estimated and measured assumptions (p < 0.001). Following the implementation of the optimized assumptions, MPfield-opt (205.1 ± 55.3 W) was not significantly different from Mlab (199.5 ± 57.9 W), with a high correlation (r = 0.86, p < 0.001) and a non-significant bias (5.64 W, p = 0.537). Provided that corrected assumptions are used, 5STS field test is confirmed a valid time- and cost-effective field method for the monitoring of lower limbs MP, a valuable index of health status in aging.
Source Apportionment of PM2.5 in Daejeon Metropolitan Region during January and May to June 2021 in Korea Using a Hybrid Receptor Model
Authors: Han Sang-Woo , Joo Hung-Soo , Song Hui-Jun , Lee Su-Bin , Han Jin-Seok
Published: November 2022

We tried to estimate anthropogenic emission sources, including the contributions of neighboring regions, that affect the fine particle concentration (PM2.5) in Daejeon using positive matrix factorization (PMF), concentration weight trajectory (CWT), and modified concentration weight trajectory (MCWT) models in a manner that might overcome the limitations of widely applied hybrid receptor models. Fractions of ion, carbonaceous compound and elements in PM2.5 were 58%, 17%, and 3.6% during January and 49%, 17%, and 14.9% during May to June, respectively. The fraction of ions was higher during winter season, while the fraction of elements was higher during the other season. From the PMF model, seven factors were determined, including dust/soil, sea salt, secondary nitrate/chloride, secondary sulfate, industry, coal combustion, and vehicle sources. Secondary sulfate showed the highest contribution followed by secondary nitrate/chloride and vehicle sources. The MCWT model significantly improved the performance of regional contributions of the CWT model, which had shown a high contribution from the Yellow Sea where there are no emission sources. According to the MCWT results, regional contributions to PM2.5 in the Daejeon metropolitan region were highest from eastern and southern China, followed by Russia, northeastern China, and Manchuria. We conclude that the MCWT model is more useful than the CWT model to estimate the regional influence of the PM2.5 concentrations. This approach can be used as a reference tool for studies to further improve on the limitations of hybrid receptor models.
On h-Quasi-Hemi-Slant Riemannian Maps
Authors: Bilal Mohd , Kumar Sushil , Prasad Rajendra , Haseeb Abdul , Kumar Sumeet
Published: November 2022

In the present article, we indroduce and study h-quasi-hemi-slant (in short, h-qhs) Riemannian maps and almost h-qhs Riemannian maps from almost quaternionic Hermitian manifolds to Riemannian manifolds. We investigate some fundamental results mainly on h-qhs Riemannian maps: the integrability of distributions, geometry of foliations, the condition for such maps to be totally geodesic, etc. At the end of this article, we give two non-trivial examples of this notion.
Clinical Dilemmas in the Treatment of Elderly Patients Suffering from Hodgkin Lymphoma: A Review
Authors: Milunović Vibor , Hude Ida , Rinčić Goran , Galušić Davor , Grubešić Aron , Martinović Marko , Popović Nika , Divošević Sunčana , Brčić Klara , Međugorac Marin , Kužat Luka , Strahija Dejan , Mrđenović Stefan , Mandac Smoljanović Inga , Radić-Krišto Delfa , Gašparov Slavko , Aurer Igor , Ostojić Kolonić Slobodanka
Published: November 2022

Elderly patients make up a significant number of cases of newly diagnosed Hodgkin lymphoma. However, unlike in young patients, the outcomes of elderly patients are poor, and they are under-represented in phase III trials. Prior to treatment initiation, geriatric assessment should ideally be performed to address the patient’s fitness and decide whether to pursue a curative or palliative approach. The ABVD regimen is poorly tolerated in unfit patients, with high treatment-related mortality. Alternative chemotherapy approaches have been explored, with mixed results obtained concerning their feasibility and toxicity in phase II trials. The introduction of brentuximab vedotin-based regimens led to a paradigm shift in first- and further-line treatment of elderly Hodgkin lymphoma patients, providing adequate disease control within a broader patient population. As far as checkpoint inhibitors are concerned, we are only just beginning to understand the role in the treatment of this population. In relapsed/refractory settings there are few options, ranging from autologous stem cell transplantation in selected patients to pembrolizumab, but unfortunately, palliative care is the most common modality. Importantly, published studies are frequently burdened with numerous biases (such as low numbers of patients, selection bias and lack of geriatric assessment), leading to low level of evidence. Furthermore, there are few ongoing studies on this topic. Thus, elderly Hodgkin lymphoma patients are hard to treat and represent an unmet need in hematologic oncology. In conclusion, treatment needs to be personalized and tailored on a case-by-case basis. In this article, we outline treatment options for elderly Hodgkin lymphoma patients.
An Effect of Cyclosporin A in a Treatment of Temporal Bone Defect Using hBM-MSCs
Authors: Skoloudik Lukas , Chrobok Viktor , Laco Jan , Dedkova Jana , Diaz Garcia Daniel , Filip Stanislav
Published: November 2022

Background. The treatment of middle ear cholesteatoma requires surgical treatment and the reconstruction of the temporal bone, which represents an ongoing problem. Otologists have focused on the research of materials allowing an airy middle ear and the preservation of hearing function to reconstruct the temporal bone. Methods. This study evaluated the effect of cyclosporin A (CsA) and a combined biomaterial in the healing process of postoperative temporal bone defects in an animal model. Cultured human Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stromal Cells (hBM-MSCs) were mixed with hydroxyapatite (Cem-Ostetic®), and subsequently applied as a bone substitute after middle ear surgery, showing that the therapeutic potential of hBM-MSCs associated with bone regeneration and replacement is directly influenced by CsA, confirming that it promotes the survival of MSCs in vivo. Results. The therapeutic efficacy of the combination of MSCs with CsA is greater than the sole application of MSCs in a hydroxyapatite carrier. Conclusion. The reconstruction of a temporal bone defect using hBM-MSCs requires an immunosuppressant to improve the results of treatment.
Identification of a Fatty Acid for Diagnosing Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis in Patients with Severe Obesity Undergoing Metabolic Surgery
Authors: Takahashi Naoto , Sasaki Akira , Umemura Akira , Sugai Tamotsu , Kakisaka Keisuke , Ishigaki Yasushi
Published: November 2022

The prevalence of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) in severely obese Japanese patients is extremely high. However, there are currently no methods other than liver biopsy to assess hepatic steatosis and fibrosis. The purpose of this study was to comprehensively analyze changes in fatty acid (FA) and serum-free fatty acid (FFA) metabolism in severely obese Japanese patients to determine whether these could be surrogate markers. In this study, we enrolled 20 Japanese patients who underwent laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) for severe obesity and intraoperative liver biopsy. Serum FFAs were analyzed with liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, and FAs in liver tissue were assessed using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-imaging mass spectrometry to determine FAs that may be indicative of a positive NASH diagnosis. All patients showed significant weight loss and metabolic improvement following LSG. Regarding weight loss and metabolic improvement indices, 23 FFAs showed significant correlations with the baseline data. Narrowing down the phospholipids to commonly detected FAs detected in liver tissue, PC(18:1e_20:4) was significantly changed in the NASH group, suggesting that it could be used as a surrogate marker for NASH diagnosis. The results suggest that specific postoperative changes in blood phospholipids could be used as surrogate markers for NASH treatment.
The Evaluation of Facial Muscles by Surface Electromyography in Very Preterm Infants
Authors: Komisarek Oskar , Malak Roksana , Kwiatkowski Jacek , Wiecheć Katarzyna , Szczapa Tomasz , Kasperkowicz Joanna , Matthews-Kozanecka Maja , Matthews-Brzozowska Teresa , Wójcik Małgorzata , Samborski Włodzimierz , Mojs Ewa
Published: November 2022

Background: It is reported that 40% of preterm infants have problems with eating. Neonatal feeding disorders may be one of the factors increasing neonatal mortality. The aim of our study was to evaluate the muscles involved in suckling and swallowing in premature newborns using surface electromyography (sEMG). We would like to objectively describe the tension of muscles engaged in feeding in order to properly plan the therapy. Another aim was to compare sEMG measurements to gestational age, birth weight, and umbilical blood pH to show which parameters put children at risk of feeding problems. Methods: Sixteen preterm neonates with gestational age less than 32 weeks, birth weight less than 1500 g, and oral feeding difficulties were analyzed for muscle response and electrical activity of nerves using sEMG (surface electromyography). Results: We found a negative correlation indicating that preterm infants with a younger gestational age had higher suprahyoid muscle tension, and a positive correlation was found between pH value and suprahyoid muscles. The lower the pH value, the lower the tension in the suprahyoid muscles. Conclusions: sEMG may be a helpful diagnostic tool in the evaluation of the masticatory system of premature infants. Due to the abnormal tone of the muscles responsible for swallowing, it is advisable to rehabilitate as early as possible.
Interdisciplinary Approaches to Deal with Alzheimer’s Disease—From Bench to Bedside: What Feasible Options Do Already Exist Today?
Authors: Ablinger Irene , Dressel Katharina , Rott Thea , Lauer Anna Andrea , Tiemann Michael , Batista João Pedro , Taddey Tim , Grimm Heike Sabine , Grimm Marcus Otto Walter
Published: November 2022

Alzheimer’s disease is one of the most common neurodegenerative diseases in the western population. The incidence of this disease increases with age. Rising life expectancy and the resulting increase in the ratio of elderly in the population are likely to exacerbate socioeconomic problems. Alzheimer’s disease is a multifactorial disease. In addition to amyloidogenic processing leading to plaques, and tau pathology, but also other molecular causes such as oxidative stress or inflammation play a crucial role. We summarize the molecular mechanisms leading to Alzheimer’s disease and which potential interventions are known to interfere with these mechanisms, focusing on nutritional approaches and physical activity but also the beneficial effects of cognition-oriented treatments with a focus on language and communication. Interestingly, recent findings also suggest a causal link between oral conditions, such as periodontitis or edentulism, and Alzheimer’s disease, raising the question of whether dental intervention in Alzheimer’s patients can be beneficial as well. Unfortunately, all previous single-domain interventions have been shown to have limited benefit to patients. However, the latest studies indicate that combining these efforts into multidomain approaches may have increased preventive or therapeutic potential. Therefore, as another emphasis in this review, we provide an overview of current literature dealing with studies combining the above-mentioned approaches and discuss potential advantages compared to monotherapies. Considering current literature and intervention options, we also propose a multidomain interdisciplinary approach for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease patients that synergistically links the individual approaches. In conclusion, this review highlights the need to combine different approaches in an interdisciplinary manner, to address the future challenges of Alzheimer’s disease.
Association of Pain Phenotypes with Risk of Falls and Incident Fractures
Authors: Devine Maxim , Ma Canchen , Tian Jing , Antony Benny , Cicuttini Flavia , Jones Graeme , Pan Feng
Published: November 2022

Objective: To compare whether falls risk score and incident fracture over 10.7 years were different among three previously identified pain phenotypes. Methods: Data on 915 participants (mean age 63 years) from a population-based cohort study were studied at baseline and follow-ups at 2.6, 5.1 and 10.7 years. Three pain phenotypes were previously identified using the latent class analysis: Class 1: high prevalence of emotional problems and low prevalence of structural damage; Class 2: high prevalence of structural damage and low prevalence of emotional problems; Class 3: low prevalence of emotional problems and low prevalence of structural damage. Fractures were self-reported and falls risk score was measured using the Physiological Profile Assessment. Generalized estimating equations model and linear mixed-effects model were used to compare differences in incident fractures and falls risk score over 10.7 years between pain phenotypes, respectively. Results: There were 3 new hip, 19 vertebral, and 121 non-vertebral fractures, and 138 any site fractures during 10.7-year follow-up. Compared with Class 3, Class 1 had a higher risk of vertebral (relative risk (RR) = 2.44, 95% CI: 1.22–4.91), non-vertebral fractures (RR = 1.20, 95% CI: 1.01–1.42), and any site fractures (RR = 1.24, 95% CI: 1.04–1.46) after controlling for covariates, bone mineral density and falls risk score. Class 2 had a higher risk of non-vertebral and any site fracture relative to those in Class 3 (non-vertebral: RR = 1.41, 95% CI: 1.17–1.71; any site: RR = 1.44, 95% CI: 1.20–1.73), but not vertebral fracture. Compared with Class 3, Class 1 had a higher falls risk score at baseline (β = 0.16, 95% CI: 0.09–0.23) and over 10.7-year (β = 0.03, 95% CI: 0.01–0.04). Conclusions: Class 1 and/or Class 2 had a higher risk of incident fractures and falls risk score than Class 3, highlighting that targeted preventive strategies for fractures and falls are needed in pain population.
Contemporary Clinical Definitions, Differential Diagnosis, and Novel Predictive Tools for Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Novacescu Dorin , Feciche Bogdan Ovidiu , Cumpanas Alin Adrian , Bardan Razvan , Rusmir Andrei Valentin , Bitar Yahya Almansour , Barbos Vlad Ilie , Cut Talida Georgiana , Raica Marius , Latcu Silviu Constantin
Published: November 2022

Despite significant progress regarding clinical detection/imaging evaluation modalities and genetic/molecular characterization of pathogenesis, advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) remains an incurable disease and overall RCC mortality has been steadily rising for decades. Concomitantly, clinical definitions have been greatly nuanced and refined. RCCs are currently viewed as a heterogeneous series of cancers, with the same anatomical origin, but fundamentally different metabolisms and clinical behaviors. Thus, RCC pathological diagnosis/subtyping guidelines have become increasingly intricate and cumbersome, routinely requiring ancillary studies, mainly immunohistochemistry. Meanwhile, RCC-associated-antigen targeted systemic therapy has been greatly diversified and emerging, novel clinical applications for RCC immunotherapy have already reported significant survival benefits, at least in the adjuvant setting. Even so, systemically disseminated RCCs still associate very poor clinical outcomes, with currently available therapeutic modalities only being able to prolong survival. In lack of a definitive cure for advanced RCCs, integration of the amounting scientific knowledge regarding RCC pathogenesis into RCC clinical management has been paramount for improving patient outcomes. The current review aims to offer an integrative perspective regarding contemporary RCC clinical definitions, proper RCC clinical work-up at initial diagnosis (semiology and multimodal imaging), RCC pathological evaluation, differential diagnosis/subtyping protocols, and novel clinical tools for RCC screening, risk stratification and therapeutic response prediction.