bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential responses in some quinoa genotypes of a consortium of beneficial endophytic bacteria against bacterial leaf spot disease
Authors: Badran Ayman , Eid Nerhan A. , Hassan Amr R. , Mahmoudi Henda
Published: April 2023

Many effective plant-microbe interactions lead to biological changes that can stimulate plant growth and production. This study evaluated the effect of the interaction between quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) and endophytic bacterial strains on differential responses under biotic stress. Four strains of endophytic bacteria were used to inoculate three quinoa genotypes. Endophytic bacteria, isolated from the endosphere of healthy genotypes of quinoa plants, were used to evaluate their biocontrol activity against Pseudomonas syringae on quinoa plants, which causes leaf spot disease, depending on some different parameters. Quinoa genotype plants were treated with four treatments: pathogenic bacteria only (T1), internal bacteria only (T2), pathogenic bacteria + endogenous bacteria (T3), and untreated as the control (T4). The results indicated that there was a significant difference between chlorophyll content index of infected plants without bioagent (untreated) compared to plants bio-inoculated with endophytic bacteria. The highest mean disease incidence was on the plants without bacterial inoculum (90, 80, and 100%) for quinoa genotypes G1, G2, and G3, respectively. The results showed that there were significant differences in the weight of grains/plant, as the value ranged from 8.1 to 13.3 g when treated with pathogens (T1) compared to the treatment with pathogens and endogenous bacteria (T3), which ranged from 11.7 to 18.6 g/plant. Decreases in total aromatic amino acids appeared due to the pathogen infection, by 6.3, 22.8, and 24.1% (compared to the control) in G1, G2, and G3, respectively. On the other hand, genotype G3 showed the highest response in the levels of total aromatic and total neutral amino acids. The endophytic strains promoted quinoa seedling growth mainly by improving nutrient efficiency. This improvement could not be explained by their ability to induce the production of amino acids, showing that complex interactions might be associated with enhancement of quinoa seedling performance by endophytic bacteria. The endophytic bacterial strains were able to reduce the severity of bacterial leaf spot disease by 30, 40, and 50% in quinoa genotypes G1, G2, and G3, respectively, recording significant differences compared to the negative control. The results indicated that, G1 genotype was superior in different performance indicators (pathogen tolerance index, yield injury %, superiority measure and relative performance) for grain weight/plant under pathogen infection condition when treated with endophyte bacteria. Based on this study, these bacterial strains can be used as a biotechnology tool in quinoa seedling production and biocontrol to diminish the severity of bacterial leaf spot disease.
A mouse ear skin model to study the dynamics of innate immune responses against the microsporidian Encephalitozoon cuniculi
Authors: Carriere Eugénie , Abdul Hamid Aizat Iman , Feki Inès , Dubuffet Aurore , Delbac Frédéric , Gueirard Pascale
Published: April 2023

Microsporidia are obligate intracellular parasites related to fungi that cause severe infections in immunocompromised individuals. Encephalitozoon cuniculi is a microsporidian species capable of infecting mammals, including human and rodents. In response to microsporidian infection, innate immune system serves as the first line of defense and allows a partial clearance of the parasite via the innate immune cells, namely macrophages, neutrophils, dendritic cells, and Natural Killer cells. According to the literature, microsporidia bypass this response in vitro by modulating the response of macrophages. In order to study host-parasites interactions in vivo, we developed a model using the mouse ear pinna in combination with an intravital imaging approach. Fluorescent E. cuniculi spores were inoculated into the skin tissue to follow for the first time in real time in an in vivo model the recruitment dynamics of EGFP + phagocytic cells in response to the parasite. The results show that parasites induce an important inflammatory recruitment of phagocytes, with alterations of their motility properties (speed, displacement length, straightness). This cellular response persists in the injection zone, with spores detected inside the phagocytes up to 72 h post-infection. Immunostainings performed on ear tissue cryosections evoke the presence of developing infectious foci from 5 days post-infection, in favor of parasite proliferation in this tissue. Overall, the newly set up mice ear pinna model will increase our understanding of the immunobiology of microsporidia and in particular, to know how they can bypass and hijack the host immune system of an immunocompetent or immunosuppressed host.
The Emerging Landscape of Long Non-Coding RNAs in Wilms Tumor
Authors: Liu Qiang
Published: April 2023

Long noncoding RNAs (LncRNAs) are transcripts of nucleic acid sequences with a length of more than 200 bp, which have only partial coding capabilities. Recent studies have shown that lncRNAs located in the nucleus or cytoplasm can be used as gene expression regulatory elements due to their important regulatory effects in a variety of biological processes. Wilms tumor (WT) is a common abdominal tumor in children whose pathogenesis remains unclear. In recent years, many specifically expressed lncRNAs have been found in WT, which affect the occurrence and development of WT. At the same time, lncRNAs may have the capacity to become novel biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of WT. This article reviews related research progress on the relationship between lncRNAs and WT, to provide a new direction for clinical diagnosis and treatment of WT.
Intra-arterial verapamil improves functional outcomes of thrombectomy in a preclinical model of extended hyperglycemic stroke
Authors: Nasoohi Sanaz , Alehossein Parsa , Jorjani Masoumeh , Brown Candice M. , Ishrat Tauheed
Published: April 2023

The abrupt hyperglycemic reperfusion following thrombectomy has been shown to harm the efficacy of the intervention in stroke patients with large vessel occlusion. Studies of ours and others have shown thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP) is critically involved in hyperglycemic stroke injury. We recently found verapamil ameliorates cerebrovascular toxicity of tissue plasminogen activators in hyperglycemic stroke. The present study aims to answer if verapamil exerts direct neuroprotective effects and alleviates glucose toxicity following thrombectomy in a preclinical model of hyperglycemic stroke. Primary cortical neural (PCN) cultures were exposed to hyperglycemic reperfusion following oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD), with or without verapamil treatment. In a mouse model of intraluminal stroke, animals were subjected to 4 h middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) and intravenous glucose infusion. Glucose infusion lasted one more hour at reperfusion, along with intra-arterial (i.a.) verapamil infusion. Animals were subjected to sensorimotor function tests and histological analysis of microglial phenotype at 72 h post-stroke. According to our findings, glucose concentrations (2.5–20 mM) directly correlated with TXNIP expression in OGD-exposed PCN cultures. Verapamil (100 nM) effectively improved PCN cell neurite growth and reduced TXNIP expression as well as interaction with NOD-like receptor pyrin domain-containing-3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, as determined by immunoblotting and immunoprecipitation. In our mouse model of extended hyperglycemic MCAO, i.a. verapamil (0.5 mg/kg) could attenuate neurological deficits induced by hyperglycemic stroke. This was associated with reduced microglial pro-inflammatory transition. This finding encourages pertinent studies in hyperglycemic patients undergoing thrombectomy where the robust reperfusion may exacerbate glucose toxicity.
Unravelling the allosteric binding mode of αD-VxXXB at nicotinic acetylcholine receptors
Authors: Ho Thao NT , Abraham Nikita , Lewis Richard J.
Published: April 2023

αD-conotoxins are 11 kDa homodimers that potently inhibit nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) through a non-competitive (allosteric) mechanism. In this study, we describe the allosteric binding mode of the granulin-like C-terminal (CTD) of VxXXB bound to Lymnea stagnalis acetylcholine binding protein (Ls-AChBP), a soluble homologue of the extracellular ligand-binding domain of nAChRs. This co-crystal complex revealed a novel allosteric binding site for nAChR antagonists outside the C-loop that caps the orthosteric site defined by the nAChR agonist nicotine and the antagonist epibatidine. Mutational and docking studies on Ls-AChBP supported a two-site binding mode for full-length VxXXB, with the first CTD binding site located outside the C-loop as seen in the co-crystal complex, with a second CTD binding site located near the N-terminal end of the adjacent subunit of AChBP. These results provide new structural insight into a novel allosteric mechanism of nAChR inhibition and define the cooperative binding mode of the N-terminal domain linked granulin core domains of αD-conotoxins.
Ontogeny of CYP3A and UGT activity in preterm piglets: a translational model for drug metabolism in preterm newborns
Authors: Buyssens Laura , Valenzuela Allan , Prims Sara , Ayuso Miriam , Thymann Thomas , Van Ginneken Chris , Van Cruchten Steven
Published: April 2023

Despite considerable progress in understanding drug metabolism in the human pediatric population, data remains scarce in preterm neonates. Improving our knowledge of the ADME properties in this vulnerable age group is of utmost importance to avoid suboptimal dosing, which may lead to adverse drug reactions. The juvenile (mini)pig is a representative model for hepatic drug metabolism in human neonates and infants, especially phase I reactions. However, the effect of prematurity on the onset of hepatic phase I and phase II enzyme activity has yet to be investigated in this animal model. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the ontogeny of CYP3A and UGT enzyme activity in the liver of preterm (gestational day 105–107) and term-born (gestational day 115–117) domestic piglets. In addition, the ontogeny pattern between the preterm and term group was compared to examine whether postconceptional or postnatal age affects the onset of enzyme activity. The following age groups were included: preterm postnatal day (PND) 0 (n= 10), PND 5 (n= 10), PND 11 (n= 8), PND 26 (n= 10) and term PND 0 (n= 10), PND 5 (n= 10), PND 11 (n= 8), PND 19 (n= 18) and PND 26 (n= 10). Liver microsomes were extracted, and the metabolism of CYP3A and UGT-specific substrates assessed enzyme activity. Preterm CYP3A activity was only detectable at PND 26, whereas term CYP3A activity showed a gradual postnatal increase from PND 11 onwards. UGT activity gradually increased between PND 0 and PND 26 in preterm and term-born piglets, albeit, being systematically lower in the preterm group. Thus, postconceptional age is suggested as the main driver affecting porcine CYP3A and UGT enzyme ontogeny. These data are a valuable step forward in the characterization of the preterm piglet as a translational model for hepatic drug metabolism in the preterm human neonate.
A system theory based digital model for predicting the cumulative fluid balance course in intensive care patients
Authors: Polz Mathias , Bergmoser Katharina , Horn Martin , Schörghuber Michael , Lozanović Jasmina , Rienmüller Theresa , Baumgartner Christian
Published: April 2023

Background: Surgical interventions can cause severe fluid imbalances in patients undergoing cardiac surgery, affecting length of hospital stay and survival. Therefore, appropriate management of daily fluid goals is a key element of postoperative intensive care in these patients. Because fluid balance is influenced by a complex interplay of patient-, surgery- and intensive care unit (ICU)-specific factors, fluid prediction is difficult and often inaccurate.

Methods: A novel system theory based digital model for cumulative fluid balance (CFB) prediction is presented using recorded patient fluid data as the sole parameter source by applying the concept of a transfer function. Using a retrospective dataset of n = 618 cardiac intensive care patients, patient-individual models were created and evaluated. RMSE analyses and error calculations were performed for reasonable combinations of model estimation periods and clinically relevant prediction horizons for CFB.

Results: Our models have shown that a clinically relevant time horizon for CFB prediction with the combination of 48 h estimation time and 8–16 h prediction time achieves high accuracy. With an 8-h prediction time, nearly 50% of CFB predictions are within ±0.5 L, and 77% are still within the clinically acceptable range of ±1.0 L.

Conclusion: Our study has provided a promising proof of principle and may form the basis for further efforts in the development of computational models for fluid prediction that do not require large datasets for training and validation, as is the case with machine learning or AI-based models. The adaptive transfer function approach allows estimation of CFB course on a dynamically changing patient fluid balance system by simulating the response to the current fluid management regime, providing a useful digital tool for clinicians in daily intensive care.
Fitness costs of resistance to insecticide pymetrozine combined with antimicrobial zhongshengmycin in Nilaparvata lugens (Stål)
Authors: Feng Xupiaoyang , Li Danting , Wang Hongfeng , Yu Xiaoping , Shentu Xuping
Published: April 2023

The brown planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens (Stål), is a major pest of rice crops, and its control is critical for food security. Pymetrozine has been recommended as an alternative to imidacloprid for controlling N. lugens, but the pest has developed high resistance to it, making its prohibition and restriction urgent. To address this issue, we conducted a study using a mixture of pymetrozine and zhongshengmycin with the effective ratio of 1:40, to evaluate the fitness costs in N. lugens. Our results showed that N. lugens had a relative fitness of 0.03 under this ratio, with significantly reduced longevity, female and male adult periods, total pre-oviposition days, and fecundity. Moreover, the expression levels of the uricase gene (EC1.7.3.3) and farnesyl diphosphate farnesyl transferase gene (EC2.5.1.21) were reduced in N. lugens. These genes are involved in urea metabolism and steroid biosynthesis pathway, respectively, and their suppression can interfere with the normal nutritional function of N. lugens. Our study demonstrates that the combination of chemical insecticides and antimicrobials can delay the development of resistance and improve the efficiency of pest control. This information is valuable for researchers developing management strategies to delay the development of pymetrozine resistance in N. lugens.
Trajectories of Healthcare Utilization Among Children and Adolescents With Autism Spectrum Disorder and/or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Japan
Authors: Aoki Ai , Niimura Michi , Kato Tsuguhiko , Takehara Kenji , Iida Junzo , Okada Takashi , Kurokami Tsunehiko , Nishimaki Kengo , Ogura Kaeko , Okuno Masakage , Koeda Tatsuya , Igarashi Takashi ,   The Collaborative Working Group
Published: April 2023

Background

Early intervention and prevention of psychiatric comorbidities of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are urgent issues. However, the differences in the diagnoses of ASD and ADHD and psychiatric comorbidities associated with age, long-term healthcare utilization trajectories, and its associated diagnostic features have not been fully elucidated in Japan.

Method

We conducted a retrospective observational study using the medical records. Member hospitals of three major consortiums of hospitals providing child and adolescent psychiatric services in Japan were recruited for the study. Children who accessed the psychiatry services of the participating hospitals in April 2015 were followed up for 5 years, and data on their clinical diagnoses, consultation numbers, and hospitalizations were collected. Non-hierarchical clustering was performed using two 10-timepoint longitudinal variables: consultation numbers and hospitalization. Among the major clusters, the differences in the prevalence of ASD, ADHD, comorbid intellectual disability, neurotic disorders, and other psychiatric disorders were assessed.

Results

A total of 44 facilities participated in the study (59.5%), and 1,003 participants were enrolled. Among them, 591 diagnosed with ASD and/or ADHD (58.9%) and 589 without missing data were assessed. The mean age was 10.1 years, and 363 (70.9%) were boys. Compared with the pre-schoolers, the school-aged children and adolescents had fewer ASD, more ADHD, and fewer comorbid intellectual disability diagnoses, as well as more diagnoses of other psychiatric disorders. A total of 309 participants (54.7%) continued consultation for 2 years, and 207 (35.1%) continued for 5 years. Clustering analysis identified three, two, and three major clusters among pre-schoolers, school-aged children, and adolescents, respectively. The largest cluster was characterized by early termination of the consultation and accounted for 55.4, 70.6, and 73.4% of pre-schoolers, school-aged children, and adolescents, respectively. Among the school-aged children, the diagnosis of ADHD was associated with a cluster that required longer periods of consultations. Among the adolescents, comorbid psychiatric disorders other than intellectual disability and neurotic disorders were associated with clusters that required hospitalization.

Conclusion

Continuous healthcare needs were common and psychiatric comorbidities were associated with complex trajectory among adolescents. The promotion of early intervention and prevention of comorbidities are important.
Rethinking children’s physical activity interventions at school: A new context-specific approach
Authors: Jago Russell , Salway Ruth , House Danielle , Beets Michael , Lubans David Revalds , Woods Catherine , de Vocht Frank
Published: April 2023

Physical activity is important for children’s health. However, evidence suggests that many children and adults do not meet international physical activity recommendations. Current school-based interventions have had limited effect on physical activity and alternative approaches are needed. Context, which includes school setting, ethos, staff, and sociodemographic factors, is a key and largely ignored contributing factor to school-based physical activity intervention effectiveness, impacting in several interacting ways.

Conceptualization

Current programs focus on tightly-constructed content that ignores the context in which the program will be delivered, thereby limiting effectiveness. We propose a move away from uniform interventions that maximize internal validity toward a flexible approach that enables schools to tailor content to their specific context.

Evaluation designs

Evaluation of context-specific interventions should explicitly consider context. This is challenging in cluster randomized controlled trial designs. Thus, alternative designs such as natural experiment and stepped-wedge designs warrant further consideration.

Primary outcome

A collective focus on average minutes of moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity may not always be the most appropriate choice. A wider range of outcomes may improve children’s physical activity and health in the long-term. In this paper, we argue that greater consideration of school context is key in the design and analysis of school-based physical activity interventions and may help overcome existing limitations in the design of effective interventions and thus progress the field. While this focus on context-specific interventions and evaluation is untested, we hope to stimulate debate of the key issues to improve future physical activity intervention development and implementation.
The impact of COVID-19 on the mental health of Lebanese pharmacists: A national cross-sectional study
Authors: Safwan Jihan , Halat Dalal Hammoudi , Akel Marwan , Younes Samar , Rahal Mohamad , Mourad Nisreen , Akiki Zeina , Cherfane Michelle , Saade Faraj , Bouraad Etwal , Dabbous Mariam , Sakr Fouad
Published: April 2023

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has induced a global mental health crisis with variable consequences. This study aimed to assess the psychological impact of COVID-19 regarding anxiety, insomnia, depression, and response to trauma on pharmacists in Lebanon during COVID-19, and to identify factors contributing to psychological distress.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study among pharmacists that involved the use of the 7-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7), 7-item Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), Patient Health Questionnaire 9-item depression module (PHQ-9), and Impact of Event Scale revised (IES-R) subscales. Descriptive statistical analyses were performed to determine the study distribution. The associations between the scores and the participants’ characteristics were assessed using the Chi-square test. Four binary logistic regression models were used to evaluate the association between the scores and the potential confounders, followed by four multivariable logistic regressions. An alpha of 0.05 was used to determine statistical significance.

Results

Participants comprised 311 pharmacists from all Lebanese districts, of whom 251 (80.7%) were females and 181 (58.2%) aged between 26 and 35 years. The majority of the participants were community pharmacists (n = 178, 57.2%). A considerable proportion of participants had symptoms of anxiety (n = 128, 41.2%), insomnia (n = 64, 20.6%), depression (n = 157, 50.5%), and subjective stress (n = 227, 78.8%). Higher anxiety (aOR: 1.73, 95% CI: 1.08; 2.78, p-value: 0.02), higher depression (aOR: 3.06, 95% CI: 1.73; 5.39, p-value: 0.001), and higher stress (aOR: 1.86, 95 percent CI: 1.11; 3.14, p-value: 0.02) scores were significantly associated with pharmacists who reported that their work involves contact with infected/suspected COVID-19 patients. Interestingly, pharmacists who expressed concern about contracting COVID-19 infection had significantly higher anxiety (aOR: 2.35, 95% CI: 1.40; 3.94, p-value: 0.001) and higher depression scores (aOR: 2.64, 95% CI: 1.49; 4.67, p-value: 0.001) respectively.

Conclusion

The preliminary results from pharmacists in Lebanon reflect increase in stress, burden, and frustration felt by pharmacists, creating a negative impact on their mental health and well-being during the global pandemic. As frontline healthcare workers, the role of pharmacists in the community should not be overlooked, and their mental health should be well investigated.
Geomorphological significance of shelf-incised valleys as mesophotic habitats
Authors: Oliveira Natacha de , Lavagnino Ana Carolina , Rocha Gabriela Aleixo , Moura Rodrigo Leão de , Bastos Alex Cardoso
Published: April 2023

Geomorphology provides the core attributes for outlining marine seascapes, once the structural complexity of the seafloor mediates several oceanographic processes and ecosystem services, and is positively associated with biodiversity. Shelf-incised valleys and other prominent meso-scale structures such as reefs and sinkholes have a great potential for the discrimination of benthic habitat groups. Here, we investigate shelf-incised valleys as a mesophotic habitat, by focusing on their geomorphological control in defining distinct habitats in comparison with the flat surrounding area. The study was based on the integration of high-resolution bathymetry data (multibeam echosounder), video imaging, and physical-chemical parameters of the water column. Habitat mapping was conducted using object-based image analysis segmentation and clustering. Principal Component Analysis was used to assess the variables associated with habitat distribution at each morphological region of the valleys. Bathymetric data revealed the presence of 5 shelf-incised valleys and 5 seabed classes were defined as carbonate crusts, Rhodoliths (3 distinct classes) and unconsolidated sediments. A comprehensive habitat map with 17 classes was produced, and 13 are associated with valley´s relief. Extensive rhodolith beds were mapped in the valley flanks/bottom and in the flat areas. Shelf-incised valleys are prominent morphological features that add complexity to the seascape, contrasting with the flat relief that dominates the seascape. The seabed footage obtained in the valleys revealed that their heterogeneous, complex and irregular topography harbors a great diversity of epibionts, such as scleractinian corals, coralline algae, sponges and bryozoans. Most of the variability in the dataset is correlated with salinity, temperature and carbonate sediments, which seem to be the most influential variables over the biological assemblage, together with water depth and seabed slope. Shelf-incised valleys, similarly to submarine canyons, can define a complex mesophotic habitat and sustain distinct biodiversity, and even form mesophotic reefs. These features are the legacy of Quaternary sea-level changes and should be further investigated as important mesophotic habitats.
Starting Big: Why Is Learning a Language Harder for Adults Than for Children?
Authors: Arnon Inbal
Published: April 2023

All normally developing babies learn to speak. For most adults, however, it is hard to learn a new language, even though adults have more knowledge and more developed brains than children have. My research suggests that part of the advantage children have when it comes to learning a language is related to what they do not know: it may be easier for babies to learn a language because they do not know as much about words as adults do! When babies learn language, they need to discover what words are: they learn both individual words and also “chunks” of language that go together, like “time-for-bed.” Because adults already know what a word is, they focus on learning new words when learning a new language, and pay less attention to the sequences. This makes it more difficult for them to learn the connections between words. In this article, I will explain how knowledge of words can explain some of the differences in learning a first and second language, and how our findings can help with learning a second language.
Surgical site infection after 769 Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomies
Authors: Husi Benjamin , Overesch Gudrun , Forterre Franck , Rytz Ulrich
Published: April 2023

Objective

To report surgical site infections (SSI) after Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO), treatment course, associated risk factors, bacterial isolates and antimicrobial resistance.

Study design

Retrospective clinical cohort study.

Study population

Six hundred and twenty seven dogs and 769 TPLO procedures.

Methods

Data from electronic medical records of dogs undergoing TPLO between 2005 and 2015 at a single institution have been retrospectively reviewed. A generalized mixed logistic regression was used to determine possible risk factors. The Chi-Square test of independence was used to examine the relationship between the isolation of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria and the development of major infections undergoing additional surgical treatment. To assess the correlation between number of SSI and number MDR isolate per year, Pearson's correlation coefficient was calculated.

Results

The overall complication rate was 19.3% (n = 149). SSI was most frequent with 8.5% (n = 65). Major SSI occurred in 6.8% (n = 52) TPLO (80.0% SSI). Staphylococcus (S.) pseudintermedius (n = 37) and S. aureus (n = 10) were most frequently isolated. Multidrug-resistant bacteria were identified in 2.7% (n = 21) TPLO (32.3% SSI) but were not associated with major SSI (p = 0.426). There was a strong positive correlation between number of MDR isolates per year and number of SSI per year [r(9) = 0.79, p = 0.004]. Factors associated with SSI were previous TPLO in the contralateral stifle (p = 0.02, OR = 2.01, 95% CI = 1.11–3.64) and German Shepherd dogs (p = 0.035, OR = 4.41, 95% CI = 1.11–17.54). The use of non-locking implants was found to be protective (p = 0.02, OR = 0.179, 95% CI = 0.18–0.77).

Clinical significance

Infection with multidrug-resistant bacteria is an emerging problem in veterinary practice and treatment is challenging. The incidence of major SSI was found to be high but was not associated with the isolation of MDR bacteria.
Risk Stratification for Hepatitis B Virus Reactivation in Kidney Transplant Recipients With Resolved HBV Infection
Authors: Tsai Hsin-Ju , Wu Ming-Ju , Chen Cheng-Hsu , Yang Sheng-Shun , Huang Yi-Hsiang , Chang Yan-Zin , Chang Horng-Rong , Lee Teng-Yu
Published: April 2023

The prophylaxis strategy for hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) with resolved HBV infection remains unclear. In this hospital-based retrospective cohort study, consecutive KTRs with resolved HBV infection were screened from the years 2000 through 2020. After excluding confounding conditions, 212 and 45 patients were respectively recruited into Anti-HBs positive and Anti-HBs negative groups. Cumulative incidences of, and subdistribution hazard ratios (SHRs) for HBV reactivation were analyzed after adjusting the competing risk. During a median 8.3 (mean 8.4 ± 4.9) years of follow-up, the 10-year cumulative incidence of HBV reactivation was significantly higher in Anti-HBs negative group when compared to that in Anti-HBs positive group (15.2%, 95% CI: 3.6–26.7 vs. 1.3%, 95% CI: 0.0–3.0; p < 0.001). In multivariable regression analysis, absence of anti-HBs (SHR 14.2, 95% CI: 3.09–65.2; p < 0.001) and use of high-dose steroids, i.e., steroid dose ≥20 mg/day of prednisolone equivalent over 4 weeks (SHR 8.96, 95% CI: 1.05–76.2; p = 0.045) were independent risk factors related to HBV reactivation. Accordingly, the 10-year cumulative incidence of HBV reactivation occurring in patients with two, one and zero risk factors was 42.7% (95% CI: 0.0–87.1), 7.9% (95% CI: 1.2–14.7) and 0%, respectively (p < 0.001). In conclusion, the strategy of HBV antiviral prophylaxis may be defined according to the risk stratification.
Predefined-Time Fault-Tolerant Trajectory Tracking Control for Autonomous Underwater Vehicles Considering Actuator Saturation
Authors: Li Ye , He Jiayu , Zhang Qiang , Zhang Wenjun , Li Yanying
Published: April 2023

This paper presents the design of two predefined-time active fault-tolerant controllers for the trajectory tracking of autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) which can address actuator faults without causing actuator saturation. The first controller offers improved steady-state trajectory tracking precision, while the second ensures a nonsingular property. Firstly, a predefined-time sliding mode controller is formulated based on a predefined-time disturbance observer by integrating a novel predefined-time auxiliary system to prevent the control input from exceeding the actuator’s physical limitations. Subsequently, a non-singular backstepping controller is introduced to circumvent potential singularities in the sliding mode controller, guaranteeing that the trajectory tracking error is uniformly ultimately bounded (UUB) within the predefined time. Additionally, theoretical analysis and simulation results are presented to illustrate the advantages of the proposed method.
The Effect of Mycorrhiza Fungi and Various Mineral Fertilizer Levels on the Growth, Yield, and Nutritional Value of Sweet Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.)
Authors: Franczuk Jolanta , Tartanus Michał , Rosa Robert , Zaniewicz-Bajkowska Anna , Dębski Henryk , Andrejiová Alena , Dydiv Andrii
Published: April 2023

Mycorrhizal fungi can increase the effectiveness of a mineral fertilizer top dressing, positively affecting sweet pepper yield and quality. For this reason, an experiment was carried out between 2014 and 2016 to study the effect of top dressing doses and the inoculation of the root system with mycorrhizal fungi on the growth and yield of sweet pepper and the content of nutrients and macro- and microelements in the fruits. Root inoculation with Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) and mineral fertilizer doses were used as experimental factors with the following combinations: (1) mycorrhization: control (without AMF); AMF applied to the plant root zone during seedling production; AMF applied to the plant root zone after seedlings were transferred to pots; (2) top dressing doses: basic dose (100%); 50% of the basic dose; 25% of the basic dose. The sweet pepper fruits were harvested during physiological maturity. AMF inoculation of the root zone resulted in high sweet pepper yields of good quality. In particular, mycorrhizal fungi applied to the root system during seedling production positively affected the pepper yield and biometric characteristics, with fruits of the thickest pericarp and the largest mass. In the experimental units with AMF, the reduction in the top dressing fertilizer dose by 50% and 75% did not cause a statistically significant decrease in the yield of peppers and did not result in a deterioration of the biometric characteristics of the plants and fruits or a reduction in the biological value of the fruits. Despite the reduction in top dressing dose by 50% and 75%, AMF contributed to the accumulation of similar amounts of phosphorus in the sweet pepper fruits. The top dressing dose of 50% applied during seedling production to the experimental units with mycorrhizal fungi resulted in a significant increase in the content of potassium, calcium, and magnesium. A significant increase in the amount of sodium in the fruits was noted in the experimental units with mycorrhizal fungi applied to the roots when the seedlings were transferred to pots. To summarize, the application of mycorrhizal fungi to the pepper root zone during seedling production is recommended because it has a positive effect on the yield and its quality. In the unit with mycorrhiza, a lower dose of mineral fertilizers did not result in a significant decrease in the yield of pepper fruits.
Farm Household Typology Based on Soil Quality and Influenced by Socio-Economic Characteristics and Fertility Management Practices in Eastern Kenya
Authors: Wawire Amos , Csorba Ádám , Zein Mohammed , Rotich Brian , Phenson Justine , Szegi Tamás , Tormáné Kovács Eszter , Michéli Erika
Published: April 2023

The smallholder farming systems in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) are highly diverse and heterogeneous in terms of biophysical and socio-economic characteristics. This study was conducted in upper Eastern Kenya (UEK) to categorize farm households and determine the influence of socio-economic characteristics (SeC) and soil fertility management practices (SFMP) on soil fertility across farms. Conditioned Latin hypercube sampling (cLHS) was performed to determine 69 soil sampling sites within Meru and Tharaka Nithi counties. From each household (whose field soil sample was obtained), data relating to resource endowment and soil fertility management were collected through a household questionnaire survey. Standard laboratory procedures were used to analyse soil samples. Data reduction was performed using categorical principal component analysis (CATPCA) (for SeC and SFMP) and standard principal component analysis (PCA) (for soil properties). Two-step cluster analysis identified three distinct farm categories or farm types (FT), namely, low fertility farms (FT1), moderately fertile farms (FT2), and fertile farms (FT3). The correlation of clusters against soil properties was significant across pH, soil organic carbon (SOC), cation exchange capacity (CEC), available P, plant available K, and exchangeable bases. FT1 had low SOC, pH, CEC and available P (soil characteristics), low usage of fertilizer and manure (soil fertility management), and smaller household size, lower income, and smaller farm size (socio-economic). FT2 had lower SOC (compared to FT3) and available P. In terms of soil fertility management, FT2 had higher cases of fallowing and composting with moderate fertilizer usage. Households in this category had moderate income, family size, and land size (socio-economic). FT3 had relatively high SOC, pH, CEC, and mineral nutrients. This farm type was characterized by high fertilizer use (soil fertility management) as well as larger household size, higher income, and larger farm size (socio-economic). The results indicate the importance of nutrient management in enhancing soil quality. Delineation and characterization of farms based on the various parameters including resource endowment reveal imbalanced farm resource flows, suggesting a need for locally tailored interventions suited for location-specific conditions to facilitate improved targeting of soil fertility-enhancing technologies and sustainable crop production regimes. While fertilizer is one of the most critical inputs for enhancing agricultural production, it is a major contributor to nitrous oxide emissions from agriculture and can have negative environmental effects on soil biota and water sources. Farmers’ knowledge on the use of fertilizer is thus necessary in developing strategies (such as integrated approach) to promote its efficient use and minimize its detrimental impacts.
Design and Test of Peanut Root-Disk Full-Feeding Longitudinal Axial Flow Pod-Picking Device
Authors: Liu Xiaodong , Lü Qingqing , Yang Liquan , Li Guangxi
Published: April 2023

To improve the pod-picking efficiency of the combine harvester for both peanut seedlings and peanuts, a longitudinal axial flow pod-picking device is designed in this study. The fixation and adjustment modes of the pod-picking rod were determined. The pod-picking roller’s rotational speed, the pod-picking roller’s diameter, the pod-picking roller, the pod-picking roller’s effective rod-picking length, and the screw-feeding stirrer’s critical parameters were determined by theoretical calculation. A combined design of quadratic regression orthogonal rotation was achieved by using Box-Behnken design (BBD) response surface optimization analysis in Design-Expert, with the linear speed of the pod-picking roller, the clearance between the concave screen and the pod-picking roller, and the spacing between the pod-picking rods as the testing factors, and the picking rate and the crushing rate as the indicators. The optimized parameters are as follows: a linear speed of the pod-picking roller of 6.8 m/s, a clearance between the concave screen and the pod-picking roller of 28.5 mm, and a spacing between the pod-picking rods of 18.60 mm. The performances of conventional peanut full-feeding pod-picking devices and the proposed peanut root-disk full-feeding longitudinal axial flow pod-picking device were investigated and compared to clarify the pod-picking performance of the proposed peanut root-disk full-feeding longitudinal axial flow pod-picking device under optimized parameters. The results showed that the picking and crushing rates of the proposed peanut root-disk full-feeding longitudinal axial flow pod-picking device under optimized parameters were 98.93 and 1.62%, respectively, both of which were superior to those of conventional peanut full-feeding pod-picking devices. A pod-picking device matching the combine harvester for peanut seedlings and peanuts was processed under optimized parameters. Field tests revealed that the picking and crushing rates of the proposed harvester were 99.07 and 1.58%, respectively, meeting the industry standards. These findings are instrumental in the further improvement of peanut pod-picking devices.
Adverse Weather Impacts on Winter Wheat, Maize and Potato Yield Gaps in northern Belgium
Authors: Vanongeval Fien , Gobin Anne
Published: April 2023

Adverse weather conditions greatly reduce crop yields, leading to economic losses and lower food availability. The characterization of adverse weather and the quantification of their potential impact on arable farming is necessary to advise farmers on feasible and effective adaptation strategies and to support decision making in the agriculture sector. This research aims to analyze the impact of adverse weather on the yield of winter wheat, grain maize and late potato using a yield gap approach. A time-series analysis was performed to identify the relationship between (agro-)meteorological indicators and crop yields and yield gaps in Flanders (northern Belgium) based on 10 years of field trial and weather data. Indicators were calculated for different crop growth stages and multiple soils. Indicators related to high temperature, water deficit and water excess were analyzed, as the occurrence frequency and intensity of these weather events will most likely increase by 2030–2050. The concept of “yield gap” was used to analyze the effects of adverse weather in relation to other yield-reducing factors such as suboptimal management practices. Winter wheat preferred higher temperatures during grain filling and was negatively affected by wet conditions throughout the growing season. Maize was especially vulnerable to drought throughout the growing season. Potato was more affected by heat and drought stress during tuber bulking and by waterlogging during the early growth stages. The impact of adverse weather on crop yield was influenced by soil type, and optimal management practices mitigated the impact of adverse weather.
Histological Variants of Squamous and Basal Cell Carcinoma in Squamates and Chelonians: A Comprehensive Classification
Authors: Solanes Vilanova Ferran , Hellebuyck Tom , Chiers Koen
Published: April 2023

In the present study, the histological characteristics of squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) and basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) obtained from 22 squamate and 13 chelonian species were retrospectively evaluated. While the examined tissues were originally diagnosed as 28 SCCs and 7 BCCs based on histological evaluation by a specialty diagnostic service, eight SCCs could be re-classified as BCCs and three SCCs proved to be non-neoplastic lesions. In addition, all SCCs and BCCs were classified into distinct histological variants. The SCCs could be categorized as one SCC in situ, three moderately differentiated SCCs, seven well-differentiated SCCs, and six keratoacanthomas. BCCs were classified as five solid BCCs, four infiltrating BCCs, five keratotic BCCs, and one basosquamous cell carcinoma. In addition, the present study reports the occurrence of BCCs in seven reptile species for the first time. In contrast to what has been documented in humans, IHC staining with the commercially available epithelial membrane antigen and epithelial antigen clone Ber-EP4 does not allow differentiation of SCCs from BCCs in reptiles, while cyclooxygenase-2 and E-cadherin staining seem to have discriminating potential. Although the gross pathological features of the examined SCCs and BCCs were highly similar, each tumor could be unequivocally assigned to a distinct histological variant according to the observed histological characteristics. Based on the results of this study, a histopathological classification for SCCs and BCCs is proposed, allowing accurate identification and differentiation of SCCs and BCCs and their histological variants in the examined reptile species. Presumably, BCCs are severely underdiagnosed in squamates and chelonians.
A Novel Two-Dimensional Liquid Chromatography Combined with Ultraviolet Detection Method for Quantitative Determination of Pyridoxal 5′-Phosphate, 4-Pyridoxine Acid and Pyridoxal in Animal Plasma
Authors: Yang Rong-Ju , Wang Na , Ma Xiao , Gong Meng-Die , Wang Yi-Rong , Meng Si-Yu , Liu Zhao-Ying , Tang Qi
Published: April 2023

Vitamin B6 is an indispensable micronutrient in organisms and is widely distributed in blood, tissues, and organs. Changes in the content and ratio of vitamin B6 can affect the entire physiological condition of the body, so it becomes particularly important to reveal the relationship between changes in its content and disease by monitoring vitamin B6 levels in the organism. In this study, a two-dimensional liquid chromatography-UV detector (2D-LC-UV) was used to establish a method for the simultaneous detection of PLP, PA, and PL for the first time. First, PLP, PA, and PL were extracted with plasma: 0.6 M TCA: ultrapure water = 1:2:3 (v/v/v) and then derivatized. Enrichment and preliminary separation were performed on a one-dimensional column and automatically entered into a two-dimensional column for further separation. This method exhibited good selectivity, and the correlation coefficients for the analyte calibration curves were >0.99. The detection limits for PLP, PA, and PL were 0.1, 0.2, and 4 nmol/L, respectively. The results showed that the system has high loading capacity, excellent resolution, and a good peak shape. This method is expected to provide applicability for the determination of PLP, PA, and PL in pharmacological, pharmaceutical, and clinical research.
Adenophora Stricta Root Extract Alleviates Airway Inflammation in Mice with Ovalbumin-Induced Allergic Asthma
Authors: Jung Cheol-Jong , Park Seok-Man , Lee Dae-Geon , Yu Yeong-Eun , Ku Tae-Hun , La Im-Joung , Cho Il-Je , Ku Sae-Kwang
Published: April 2023

Adenophora stricta Miq. (Campanulaceae family) is a traditional herb used for relieving cough and phlegm in East Asia. This study explored the effects of A. stricta root extract (AsE) in ovalbumin (OVA)-induced allergic asthma and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated macrophages. Administration of 100–400 mg/kg AsE dose-dependently decreased pulmonary congestion and suppressed the reduction of alveolar surface area in mice with OVA-mediated allergic asthma. Histopathological analysis of lung tissue and cytological analysis of bronchioalveolar lavage fluid showed that AsE administration significantly attenuated inflammatory cell infiltration into the lungs. In addition, AsE also alleviated OVA-specific immunoglobulin E, interleukin (IL)-4, and IL-5 production, which are essential for OVA-dependent activation of T helper 2 lymphocytes. In Raw264.7 macrophage cells, AsE significantly blocked nitric oxide, tumor necrosis factor-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and monocyte chemoattractant factor-1 production in response to LPS. Results from an immunoblot assay revealed that AsE inhibited the phosphorylation of c-jun N-terminal kinase, inhibitory-κB kinase α/β, and p65 in LPS-stimulated cells. Furthermore, 2-furoic acid, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, and vanillic acid 4-β-D-glucopyranoside in AsE were shown to inhibit the production of proinflammatory mediators by LPS. Taken together, the present results suggest that A. stricta root will be a useful herb for relieving allergic asthma through managing airway inflammation.