bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial Overlap and Habitat Selection of Corvid Species in European Cities
Authors: Abou Zeid Farah , Morelli Federico , Ibáñez-Álamo Juan Diego , Díaz Mario , Reif Jiří , Jokimäki Jukka , Suhonen Jukka , Kaisanlahti-Jokimäki Marja-Liisa , Markó Gábor , Bussière Raphaël , Mägi Marko , Tryjanowski Piotr , Kominos Theodoros , Galanaki Antonia , Bukas Nikos , Pruscini Fabio , Jerzak Leszek , Ciebiera Olaf , Benedetti Yanina
Published: March 2023

Understanding habitat and spatial overlap in sympatric species of urban areas would aid in predicting species and community modifications in response to global change. Habitat overlap has been widely investigated for specialist species but neglected for generalists living in urban settings. Many corvid species are generalists and are adapted to urban areas. This work aimed to determine the urban habitat requirements and spatial overlap of five corvid species in sixteen European cities during the breeding season. All five studied corvid species had high overlap in their habitat selection while still having particular tendencies. We found three species, the Carrion/Hooded Crow, Rook, and Eurasian Magpie, selected open habitats. The Western Jackdaw avoided areas with bare soil cover, and the Eurasian Jay chose more forested areas. The species with similar habitat selection also had congruent spatial distributions. Our results indicate that although the corvids had some tendencies regarding habitat selection, as generalists, they still tolerated a wide range of urban habitats, which resulted in high overlap in their habitat niches and spatial distributions.
Transcriptomic Analysis of Liver in Silver sillago, Sillago sihama Fed with High-Level Low-Gossypol Cottonseed Meal in Replacement of Fishmeal Diet
Authors: Liu Hao , Zhou Menglong , Dong Xiaohui , Tan Beiping , Zhang Shuang , Yang Yuanzhi , Chi Shuyan , Liu Hongyu , Yan Xiaobo , Li Zhihao
Published: March 2023

Understanding the molecular mechanisms involved in adaptation to alternate diets has become a significant concern, as increasing amounts of fishmeal (FM) protein in aquafeeds are being substituted with plant protein. Thus, the goal of this study was to assess growth performance, quality, and liver function of juvenile Sillago sihama (S. sihama) through growth indices, whole-body composition, histology of the liver, and RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq), after they were fed a formulated diet with 64% low-gossypol cottonseed meal (LCSM) for 56 days, compared to those fed a traditional FM-based diet. Indicators of growth, including final body weight (FBW), weight gain rate (WGR), specific growth rate (SGR), protein efficiency ratio (PER), and condition factor (CF), were considerably lower in the 64% LCSM (R64) group than in the FM diet group. In the R64 diet, the whole crude lipid was significantly lower than in the FM diet. The hematoxylin–eosin section showed that dietary high levels of LCSM resulted in diffuse lipid vacuolation in the liver of S. sihama. According to a liver transcriptome analysis, high LCSM intake in the diet significantly impacted lipid synthesis and catabolism, elevated pathways for cholesterol synthesis, blocked several amino acid metabolic pathways, and adversely affected hepatic gluconeogenesis and glycolysis. The findings of this study indicate that feeding high levels of LCSM in S. sihama is harmful to the growth of the organism and can harm the liver’s structural integrity, as well as obstruct the normal metabolism of amino acids, lipids, and carbohydrates. Therefore, it is not recommended to substitute LCSM for high levels of FM in the diet of S. sihama.
Overexpression of DGAT2 Regulates the Differentiation of Bovine Preadipocytes
Authors: Guo Pan-Pan , Jin Xin , Zhang Jun-Fang , Li Qiang , Yan Chang-Guo , Li Xiang-Zi
Published: March 2023

Triacylglycerols (TAGs) are a major component of intramuscular fat. Diacylglycerol O-acyltransferase 2(DGAT2) expression determines the rate of TAG synthesis. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of DGAT2 in the differentiation of Yanbian cattle preadipocytes and lipid metabolism-related signalling pathways. Bovine preadipocytes were infected with overexpression and interfering adenovirus vectors of DGAT2. The effects on the differentiation of Yanbian cattle preadipocytes were examined using molecular and transcriptomic techniques, including differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and Kyoto Encyclopaedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis. DGAT2 overexpression significantly increased (p < 0.05) intracellular TAG, adiponectin, and lipid droplet (LD) contents. Moreover, it upregulated (p < 0.05) peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ), CCAAT/enhancer binding protein α, and fatty acid binding protein 4 mRNA expression. In contrast, DGAT2 knockdown reduced intracellular TAG and LD content and downregulated (p < 0.05) C/EBPβ, mannosyl (alpha-1,3-)-glycoproteinbeta-1,2-N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase, lipin 1,1-acylglycerol-3-phosphate O-acyltransferase 4, and acetyl-CoA carboxylase alpha mRNA expression. Between DGAT2-overexpressing preadipocytes and normal cells, 208 DEGs were identified, including 106 upregulated and 102 downregulated genes. KEGG pathway analysis revealed DEGs mainly enriched in PPAR signalling and AMP-activated protein kinase pathways, cholesterol metabolism, and fatty acid biosynthesis. These results demonstrated that DGAT2 regulated preadipocyte differentiation and LD and TAG accumulation by mediating the expression of adipose differentiation-, lipid metabolism-, and fatty acid synthesis-related genes.
Peste Des Petits Ruminants in the Middle East: Epidemiological Situation and Status of Control and Eradication Activities after the First Phase of the PPR Global Eradication Program (2017–2021)
Authors: Benfield Camilla T. O. , Legnardi Matteo , Mayen Friederike , Almajali Ahmad , Cinardi Giuseppina , Wisser Dominik , Chaka Hassen , Njeumi Felix
Published: March 2023

Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) is a burdensome viral disease primarily affecting small ruminants, which is currently targeted for eradication by 2030 through the implementation of a Global Control and Eradication Strategy (PPR GCES). The PPR GCES, launched in 2015, has strongly encouraged countries to participate in Regional PPR Roadmaps, designated according to the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) regions and epidemiological considerations, with each targeted by dedicated meetings and activities. Following the conclusion of the first phase of the PPR Global Eradication Program (PPR GEP) (2017–2021), the present work focuses on the disease situation and status of the eradication campaign in the fourteen countries of the PPR GCES Middle Eastern Roadmap as well as Egypt. PPR is endemic to or suspected to be present in most of the region, except for Bahrain, which, as of 2021, is preparing to apply for official recognition as being free of PPR. Some substantial shortcomings are observed in surveillance and disease reporting, as well as in the implemented control strategies, most notably vaccination. Since many of these limitations are shared by many of the investigated countries, the international cooperation and harmonization of control efforts appears crucial to making PPR eradication attainable in the Middle East.
Transcriptome Profile in Dairy Cows Resistant or Sensitive to Milk Fat Depression
Authors: Siurana Adriana , Cánovas Angela , Casellas Joaquim , Calsamiglia Sergio
Published: March 2023

Feeding linseed to dairy cows results in milk fat depression (MFD), but there is a wide range of sensitivity among cows. The objectives of this study were to identify target genes containing SNP that may play a key role in the regulation of milk fat synthesis in cows resistant or sensitive to MFD. Four cows were selected from a dairy farm after a switch from a control diet to a linseed-rich diet; two were resistant to MFD with a high milk fat content in the control (4.06%) and linseed-rich (3.90%) diets; and two were sensitive to MFD with the milk fat content decreasing after the change from the control (3.87%) to linseed-rich (2.52%) diets. Transcriptome and SNP discovery analyses were performed using RNA-sequencing technology. There was a large number of differentially expressed genes in the control (n = 1316) and linseed-rich (n = 1888) diets. Of these, 15 genes were detected as key gene regulators and harboring SNP in the linseed-rich diet. The selected genes MTOR, PDPK1, EREG, NOTCH1, ZNF217 and TGFB3 may form a network with a principal axis PI3K/Akt/MTOR/SREBP1 involved in milk fat synthesis and in the response to diets that induced MFD. These 15 genes are novel candidate genes to be involved in the resistance or sensitivity of dairy cows to milk fat depression.
Glycerol-Free Equilibration with the Addition of Glycerol Shortly before the Freezing Procedure: A Perspective Strategy for Cryopreservation of Wallachian Ram Sperm
Authors: Málková Anežka , Savvulidi Filipp Georgijevič , Ptáček Martin , Machová Karolína , Janošíková Martina , Nagy Szabolcs , Stádník Luděk
Published: March 2023

This study investigated the effect of glycerol added in different phases of sperm equilibration on CASA and flow cytometry parameters of thawed ram spermatozoa. Sperm was collected from adult Wallachian rams. The freezing extender was glycerol-free ANDROMED® (Minitub GmbH, Tiefenbach, Germany) supplied by 6% exogenous glycerol at different stages of the cryopreservation process. The purpose of this study was to compare two strategies of glycerol addition for sperm cryopreservation. The first strategy included the use of a glycerol-free extender for the procedure of glycerol-free equilibration and chilling, with the glycerolation of the extender by 6% glycerol shortly before sperm slow freezing (GFA). The second strategy included the use of a freezing extender already glycerolated by 6% glycerol before the equilibration and chilling of sperm and following slow freezing (GA). Sperm samples were analyzed after equilibration (but before freezing) and after thawing (at T0, T1 h, and T2 h time points). iSperm® mCASA (Aidmics Biotechnology Co., LTD., Taipei, Taiwan) was used for the evaluation of sperm kinematics. Flow cytometry was used to measure sperm viability (plasma membrane/acrosome intactness) and mitochondrial membrane potential. The obtained results significantly demonstrated that the glycerol-free equilibration with the addition of glycerol shortly before freezing is a perspective strategy for cryopreservation of Wallachian ram sperm.
An Initial Study on the Use of Machine Learning and Radio Frequency Identification Data for Predicting Health Outcomes in Free-Range Laying Hens
Authors: Welch Mitchell , Sibanda Terence Zimazile , De Souza Vilela Jessica , Kolakshyapati Manisha , Schneider Derek , Ruhnke Isabelle
Published: March 2023

Maintaining the health and welfare of laying hens is key to achieving peak productivity and has become significant for assuring consumer confidence in the industry. Free-range egg production systems represent diverse environments, with a range of challenges that undermine flock performance not experienced in more conventional production systems. These challenges can include increased exposure to parasites and bacterial or viral infection, along with injuries and plumage damage resulting from increased freedom of movement and interaction with flock-mates. The ability to forecast the incidence of these health challenges across the production lifecycle for individual laying hens could result in an opportunity to make significant economic savings. By delivering the opportunity to reduce mortality rates and increase egg laying rates, the implementation of flock monitoring systems can be a viable solution. This study investigates the use of Radio Frequency Identification technologies (RFID) and machine learning to identify production system usage patterns and to forecast the health status for individual hens. Analysis of the underpinning data is presented that focuses on identifying correlations and structure that are significant for explaining the performance of predictive models that are trained on these challenging, highly unbalanced, datasets. A machine learning workflow was developed that incorporates data resampling to overcome the dataset imbalance and the identification/refinement of important data features. The results demonstrate promising performance, with an average 28% of Spotty Liver Disease, 33% round worm, and 33% of tape worm infections correctly predicted at the end of production. The analysis showed that monitoring hens during the early stages of egg production shows similar performance to models trained with data obtained at later periods of egg production. Future work could improve on these initial predictions by incorporating additional data streams to create a more complete view of flock health.
Predicting the Outcome of Equine Artificial Inseminations Using Chilled Semen
Authors: Medica Ashlee Jade , Lambourne Sarah , Aitken Robert John
Published: March 2023

This study aimed to determine whether an analysis of stallion ejaculate could accurately predict the likelihood of pregnancy resulting from artificial insemination in mares. This study involved 46 inseminations of 41 mares, using 7 standardbred stallions over a 5-week period at an Australian pacing stud. Semen quality was assessed immediately after collection and again after chilling at ~5 °C for 24 h. The assessment involved evaluating ejaculate volume, sperm concentration, and motility parameters using an iSperm® Equine portable device. After the initial evaluation, a subpopulation of cells was subjected to a migration assay through a 5 µm polycarbonate filter within a Samson™ isolation chamber over a 15 min period. The cells were assessed for their concentration, motility parameters, and ability to reduce the membrane impermeant tetrazolium salt WST-1. The data, combined with the stallion and mare’s ages, were used to predict the likelihood of pregnancy, as confirmed by rectal ultrasound sonography performed 14 days post ovulation. The criteria used to predict pregnancy were optimized for each individual stallion, resulting in an overall accuracy of 87.9% if analyzed pre-chilling and 95% if analyzed post-chilling. This study suggests that an analysis of stallion ejaculate can be used to predict the likelihood of pregnancy resulting from artificial insemination in mares with a high level of accuracy.
Rapid Screening and Comparison of Chimeric Lysins for Antibacterial Activity against Staphylococcus aureus Strains
Authors: Park Jin-Mi , Ko Dae-Sung , Kim Hee-Soo , Kim Nam-Hyung , Kim Eun-Kyoung , Roh Young-Hye , Kim Danil , Kim Jae-Hong , Choi Kang-Seuk , Kwon Hyuk-Joon
Published: March 2023

Chimeric lysins composed of various combinations of cell wall-lysing (enzymatic) and cell-wall-binding (CWB) domains of endolysins, autolysins, and bacteriocins have been developed as alternatives to or adjuvants of conventional antibiotics. The screening of multiple chimeric lysin candidates for activity via E. coli expression is not cost effective, and we previously reported on a simple cell-free expression system as an alternative. In this study, we sufficiently improved upon this cell-free expression system for use in screening activity via a turbidity reduction test, which is more appropriate than a colony reduction test when applied in multiple screening. Using the improved protocol, we screened and compared the antibacterial activity of chimeric lysin candidates and verified the relatively strong activity associated with the CHAP (cysteine, histidine-dependent amidohydrolase/peptidase) domain of secretory antigen SsaA-like protein (ALS2). ALS2 expressed in E. coli showed two major bands, and the smaller one (subprotein) was shown to be expressed by an innate downstream promoter and start codon (ATG). The introduction of synonymous mutations in the promoter resulted in clearly reduced expression of the subprotein, whereas missense mutations in the start codon abolished antibacterial activity as well as subprotein production. Interestingly, most of the S. aureus strains responsible for bovine mastitis were susceptible to ALS2, but those from human and chicken were less susceptible. Thus, the simple and rapid screening method can be applied to select functional chimeric lysins and define mutations affecting antibacterial activity, and ALS2 may be useful in itself and as a lead molecule to control bovine mastitis.
General Perceptions and Knowledge of Antibiotic Resistance and Antibiotic Use Behavior: A Cross-Sectional Survey of US Adults
Authors: McCracken Caitlin M. , Tucker Kendall J. , Tallman Gregory B. , Holmer Haley K. , Noble Brie N. , McGregor Jessina C.
Published: March 2023

This study aimed to assess understanding of antibiotic resistance and evaluate antibiotic use themes among the general public. In March 2018, respondents that were ≥21 years old and residing in the United States were recruited from ResearchMatch.org and surveyed to collect data on respondent expectations, knowledge, and opinions regarding prescribing antibiotics and antibiotic resistance. Content analysis was used to code open-ended definitions of antibiotic resistance into central themes. Chi-square tests were used to assess differences between the definitions of antibiotic resistance and antibiotic use. Among the 657 respondents, nearly all (99%) had taken an antibiotic previously. When asked to define antibiotic resistance, the definitions provided were inductively coded into six central themes: 35% bacteria adaptation, 22% misuse/overuse, 22% resistant bacteria, 10% antibiotic ineffectiveness, 7% body immunity, and 3% provided an incorrect definition with no consistent theme. Themes that were identified in respondent definitions of resistance significantly differed between those who reported having shared an antibiotic versus those who had not (p = 0.03). Public health campaigns remain a central component in the fight to combat antibiotic resistance. Future campaigns should address the public’s understanding of antibiotic resistance and modifiable behaviors that may contribute to resistance.
Antimicrobial Usage and Detection of Multidrug-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus: Methicillin- and Tetracycline-Resistant Strains in Raw Milk of Lactating Dairy Cattle
Authors: Lubna  , Hussain Tahir , Shami Ashwag , Rafiq Naseem , Khan Shehryar , Kabir Muhammad , Khan Naimat Ullah , Khattak Irfan , Kamal Mustafa , Usman Tahir
Published: March 2023

Staphylococcus aureus is a prominent cause of food-borne diseases worldwide. Enterotoxigenic strains of this bacteria are frequently found in raw milk, and some of these strains are resistant to antimicrobials, posing a risk to consumers. The main objectives of this study were to determine the antimicrobial resistance pattern of S. aureus in raw milk and to detect the presence of mecA and tetK genes in it. A total of 150 milk samples were obtained aseptically from lactating cattle, including Holstein Friesian, Achai, and Jersey breeds, maintained at different dairy farms. The milk samples were checked for the presence of S. aureus, and it was detected in 55 (37%) of them. The presence of S. aureus was verified by culturing on selective media, gram staining, and performing coagulase and catalase tests. Further confirmation was performed through PCR with a species-specific thermonuclease (nuc) gene. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing of the confirmed S. aureus was then determined by using the Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion technique. Out of the 55 confirmed S. aureus isolates, 11 were determined to be multidrug-resistant (MDR). The highest resistance was found to penicillin (100%) and oxacillin (100%), followed by tetracycline (72.72%), amikacin (27.27%), sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (18.18%), tobramycin (18.18%), and gentamycin (9.09%). Amoxicillin and ciprofloxacin were found to be susceptible (100%). Out of 11 MDR S. aureus isolates, the methicillin resistance gene (mecA) was detected in 9 isolates, while the tetracycline resistance gene (tetK) was found in 7 isolates. The presence of these methicillin- and tetracycline-resistant strains in raw milk poses a major risk to public health, as they can cause food poisoning outbreaks that can spread rapidly through populations. Our study concludes that out of nine empirically used antibiotics, amoxicillin, ciprofloxacin, and gentamicin were highly effective against S. aureus compared to penicillin, oxacillin, and tetracycline.
Prevalence and Molecular Characterization of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococci (MRS) and Mammaliicocci (MRM) in Dromedary Camels from Algeria: First Detection of SCCmec-mecC Hybrid in Methicillin-Resistant Mammaliicoccus lentus
Authors: Belhout Chahrazed , Boyen Filip , Vereecke Nick , Theuns Sebastiaan , Taibi Nadia , Stegger Marc , de la Fé-Rodríguez Pedro Yoelvys , Bouayad Leila , Elgroud Rachid , Butaye Patrick
Published: March 2023

Dromedary camels are an important source of food and income in many countries. However, it has been largely overlooked that they can also transmit antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The aim of this study was to identify the Staphylococcaceae bacteria composition of the nasal flora in dromedary camels and evaluate the presence of methicillin-resistant Mammaliicoccus (MRM) and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus (MRS) in dromedary camels in Algeria. Nasal swabs were collected from 46 camels from seven farms located in two different regions of Algeria (M’sila and Ouargla). We used non-selective media to determine the nasal flora, and antibiotic-supplemented media to isolate MRS and MRM. The staphylococcal isolates were identified using an Autoflex Biotyper Mass Spectrometer (MALDI-TOF MS). The mecA and mecC genes were detected by PCR. Methicillin-resistant strains were further analysed by long-read whole genome sequencing (WGS). Thirteen known Staphylococcus and Mammaliicoccus species were identified in the nasal flora, of which half (49.2%) were coagulase-positive staphylococci. The results showed that four out of seven farms were positive for MRS and/or MRM, with a total of 16 isolates from 13 dromedary camels. The predominant species were M. lentus, S. epidermidis, and S. aureus. Three methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) were found to be ST6 and spa type t304. Among methicillin-resistant S. epidermidis (MRSE), ST61 was the predominant ST identified. Phylogenetic analysis showed clonal relatedness among M. lentus strains, while S. epidermidis strains were not closely related. Resistance genes were detected, including mecA, mecC, ermB, tet(K), and blaZ. An SCCmec type VIII element was found in a methicillin-resistant S. hominis (MRSH) belonging to the ST1 strain. An SCCmec-mecC hybrid element was detected in M. lentus, similar to what was previously detected in M. sciuri. This study highlights that dromedary camels may be a reservoir for MRS and MRM, and that they contain a specific set of SCCmec elements. This emphasizes the need for further research in this ecological niche from a One Health perspective.
Chemical Profiling, Anticholinesterase, Antioxidant, and Antibacterial Potential of the Essential Oil from Myrcianthes discolor (Kunth) McVaugh, an Aromatic Tree from Southern Ecuador
Authors: Romero Diana , Cartuche Luis , Valarezo Eduardo , Cumbicus Nixon , Morocho Vladimir
Published: March 2023

Myrcianthes discolor, an aromatic native tree from southern Ecuador, was collected to determine the chemical composition and the biological activity of its essential oil (EO). The EO was obtained by steam-distillation and analyzed by gas chromatography coupled to a mass and a FID detector (GC-MS and GC-FID) and a non-polar DB5-MS column. Enantioselective GC-MS analysis was performed in a chiral capillary column. The antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticholinesterase potency of the EO was carried out by the broth microdilution method, radical scavenging assays using 2,2′-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid (ABTS) and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical, and by measuring the inhibition of the acetylcholinesterase (AChE) enzyme. A total of 58 chemical compounds were identified, corresponding to 94.80% of the EO composition. Sesquiterpenes hydrocarbons represented more than 75% of the composition. The main compounds detected were E-caryophyllene with 29.40 ± 0.21%, bicyclogermacrene with 7.45 ± 0.16%, β-elemene with 6.93 ± 0.499%, α-cubebene with 6.06 ± 0.053%, α-humulene with 3.96 ± 0.023%, and δ-cadinene with 3.02 ± 0.002%. The enantiomeric analysis revealed the occurrence of two pairs of pure enantiomers, (−)-β-pinene and (−)-α-phellandrene. The EO exerted a strong inhibitory effect against AChE with an IC50 value of 6.68 ± 1.07 µg/mL and a moderate antiradical effect with a SC50 value of 144.93 ± 0.17 µg/mL for the ABTS radical and a weak or null effect for DPPH (3599.6 ± 0.32 µg/mL). In addition, a strong antibacterial effect against Enterococcus faecium was observed with a MIC of 62.5 μg/mL and Enterococcus faecalis with a MIC of 125 μg/mL. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of the chemical composition and biological profile of the EO of M. discolor, and its strong inhibitory effect over AChE and against two Gram-positive pathogenic bacteria, which encourage us to propose further studies to validate its pharmacological potential.
Antibiotic Utilization Patterns for Different Wound Types among Surgical Patients: Findings and Implications
Authors: Saleem Zikria , Ahsan Umar , Haseeb Abdul , Altaf Ummara , Batool Narjis , Rani Hira , Jaffer Javeria , Shahid Fatima , Hussain Mujahid , Amir Afreenish , Rehman Inaam Ur , Saleh Umar , Shabbir Sana , Qamar Muhammad Usman , Altowayan Waleed Mohammad , Raees Fahad , Azmat Aisha , Imam Mohammad Tarique , Skosana Phumzile P. , Godman Brian
Published: March 2023

Antimicrobial prophylaxis is effective in reducing the rate of surgical site infections (SSIs) post-operatively. However, there are concerns with the extent of prophylaxis post-operatively, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This increases antimicrobial resistance (AMR), which is a key issue in Pakistan. Consequently, we conducted an observational cross-sectional study on 583 patients undergoing surgery at a leading teaching hospital in Pakistan with respect to the choice, time and duration of antimicrobials to prevent SSIs. The identified variables included post-operative prophylactic antimicrobials given to all patients for all surgical procedures. In addition, cephalosporins were frequently used for all surgical procedures, and among these, the use of third-generation cephalosporins was common. The duration of post-operative prophylaxis was 3–4 days, appreciably longer than the suggestions of the guidelines, with most patients prescribed antimicrobials until discharge. The inappropriate choice of antimicrobials combined with prolonged post-operative antibiotic administration need to be addressed. This includes appropriate interventions, such as antimicrobial stewardship programs, which have been successful in other LMICs to improve antibiotic utilization associated with SSIs and to reduce AMR.
Cellular Compartmentalization, Glutathione Transport and Its Relevance in Some Pathologies
Authors: Vázquez-Meza Héctor , Vilchis-Landeros María Magdalena , Vázquez-Carrada Melissa , Uribe-Ramírez Daniel , Matuz-Mares Deyamira
Published: March 2023

Reduced glutathione (GSH) is the most abundant non-protein endogenous thiol. It is a ubiquitous molecule produced in most organs, but its synthesis is predominantly in the liver, the tissue in charge of storing and distributing it. GSH is involved in the detoxification of free radicals, peroxides and xenobiotics (drugs, pollutants, carcinogens, etc.), protects biological membranes from lipid peroxidation, and is an important regulator of cell homeostasis, since it participates in signaling redox, regulation of the synthesis and degradation of proteins (S-glutathionylation), signal transduction, various apoptotic processes, gene expression, cell proliferation, DNA and RNA synthesis, etc. GSH transport is a vital step in cellular homeostasis supported by the liver through providing extrahepatic organs (such as the kidney, lung, intestine, and brain, among others) with the said antioxidant. The wide range of functions within the cell in which glutathione is involved shows that glutathione’s role in cellular homeostasis goes beyond being a simple antioxidant agent; therefore, the importance of this tripeptide needs to be reassessed from a broader metabolic perspective.
An Arylbenzofuran, Stilbene Dimers, and Prenylated Diels–Alder Adducts as Potent Diabetic Inhibitors from Morus bombycis Leaves
Authors: Ju Seon Min , Ali Md Yousof , Ko Seung-Mi , Ryu Jung-Hye , Choi Jae-Sue , Jung Hyun-Ah
Published: March 2023

Morus bombycis has a long history of usage as a treatment for metabolic diseases, especially, diabetes mellitus (DM). Thus, we aimed to isolate and evaluate bioactive constituents derived from M. bombycis leaves for the treatment of DM. According to bioassay-guided isolation by column chromatography, eight compounds were obtained from M. bombycis leaves: two phenolic compounds, p-coumaric acid (1) and chlorogenic acid methyl ester (2), one stilbene, oxyresveratrol (3), two stilbene dimers, macrourin B (4) and austrafuran C (6), one 2-arylbenzofuran, moracin M (5), and two Diels–Alder type adducts, mulberrofuran F (7) and chalcomoracin (8). Among the eight isolated compounds, the anti-DM activity of 3–8 (which possess chemotaxonomic significance in Morus species) was evaluated by inhibition of α-glucosidase, protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B), human recombinant aldose reductase (HRAR), and advanced glycation end-product (AGE) formation as well as by scavenging peroxynitrite (ONOO−), which are crucial therapeutic targets of DM and its complications. Compounds 4 and 6–8 significantly inhibited α-glucosidase, PTP1B, and HRAR enzymes with mixed-type and non-competitive-type inhibition modes. Furthermore, the four compounds had low negative binding energies in both enzymes according to molecular docking simulation, and compounds 3–8 exhibited strong antioxidant capacity by inhibiting AGE formation and ONOO− scavenging. Overall results suggested that the most active stilbene-dimer-type compounds (4 and 6) along with Diels–Alder type adducts (7 and 8) could be promising therapeutic and preventive resources against DM and have the potential to be used as antioxidants, anti-diabetic agents, and anti-diabetic complication agents.
Energy Behaviour of Coal Failure under Uniaxial Cyclic Loading/Unloading
Authors: Wang Chunlai , Zhao Ze , Zuo Chang
Published: March 2023

Coal failure is often the precursor of dynamic disaster. The energy evolution behaviour at different stress values was analysed under the gradation of equal amplitude cyclic loading/unloading. Based on the energy dissipation behaviour, the energy evolution model of the coal specimen was established. The multi-parameter energy behaviour predicting model was proposed. Then, the energy storage factor criterion, the energy tangent factor criterion, the energy dissipation growth factor criterion and the energy damage factor criterion of the coal specimen were proposed during the coal fracture process. The energy density and the energy storage status showed different evolution patterns under cyclic loading/unloading. The energy behaviours and status were different in fracture stages of coal specimens, and the dissipated energy behaviour had a sudden response during the failure process. The energy storage and energy dissipation mechanism were related to their respective limits. The energy storage mechanism showed a growth pattern of “low energy promotion, high energy suppression and dissipation promotion, cumulative suppression”. The damage evolution equation and the energy behaviour evolution criterion were established under the cyclic loading/unloading.
Internet-Based Video Program to Promote Physical Activity, Health, and Well-Being of Brazilian Older Adults during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: de Maio Nascimento Marcelo , Araújo João Victor Silva , da Cruz Neto Pedro Cecílio , Rios Pâmala Morais Bagano , Silva Carolina Nascimento , Ihle Andreas
Published: March 2023

In 2020 and 2021, the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus spread rapidly across the world, causing the COVID-19 pandemic with millions of deaths. One of the measures to protect life was confinement, which negatively affected physical and mental health, especially of the older population. The aim of this study is to present and evaluate the methodological procedures of a telehealth and eHealth program “U3A in Motion”, which was composed of videos of physical exercises and activities to promote the mental health and well-being of the older Brazilian population during the COVID-19 pandemic. The procedures included the planning, editing, and dissemination of videos through WhatsApp, and also on the YouTube platform, Instagram, and on a website. A total of 82 videos were created. The action reached 350 older adults from the local community in the northeast of Brazil, as well as being accessed by approximately 3000 other older adults from institutions in the southern region of Brazil. Based on the evaluation of activities through telephone interviews, it was found that older adults participating in the “U3A in Motion” program during confinement were highly motivated to access exercise activities, mainly via mobile phones, and reported a positive effect on physical and mental health.
Minimizing the Vicious Circle of Pain–Anxiety–Avoidance: The Role of Positive Affect in Endodontic Therapy
Authors: Santos-Puerta Noelia , Peñacoba-Puente Cecilia
Published: March 2023

Patients with a high level of anxiety anticipate extremely intense pain during dental treatment and frequently avoid visiting dentists, showing a tendency to become caught in a vicious circle of pain–anxiety–avoidance. This research aimed to examine whether dental anxiety mediates the impact of pain anticipation before endodontic treatment in the subjective avoidance of future treatments as a function of positive affect (moderating variable). One hundred consecutive patients that required endodontic therapy were enrolled in this study. In this prospective observational study, patients had to fill out a questionnaire twice: (a) first, prior to treatment (a baseline measurement including pain anticipation, MDAS (dental anxiety), PANAS (positive affect), ASA-PS (physical health), previous medication, an assessment form, and pulpal/periapical status); (b) second, once treatment had ended, the patients were registered for subjective avoidance and their number of canals of treated teeth. The results showed a significant correlation between pain anticipation, dental anxiety, and subjective avoidance; furthermore, the index of the association between pain anticipation and dental anxiety was diminished at higher levels of positive affect. In conclusion, there does not seem to be a direct and deterministic association between pain anticipation, dental anxiety, and subjective avoidance, but rather this relationship would depend on the possible influence of the personality variables of the patients.
Setting the Initial Value for Single Exponential Smoothing and the Value of the Smoothing Constant for Forecasting Using Solver in Microsoft Excel
Authors: Junthopas Wannaporn , Wongoutong Chantha
Published: March 2023

Although single exponential smoothing is a popular forecasting method for a wide range of applications involving stationary time series data, consistent rules about choosing the initial value and determining the value for the smoothing constant (α) are still required, because they directly impact the forecast accuracy. The purpose of this study is to mitigate these shortcomings. First, a new method for setting the initial value by weighting is derived, and its performance is compared with two other traditional methods. Second, the optimal (α) was automatically solved using Solver in Microsoft Excel, after which 𝛼 was determined by minimizing the mean squared error (MSE). This was accomplished by comparing the 𝛼 from Solver with step search by setting the smoothing constant by varying its value from 0.001 to 1 in increments of 0.001 and then choosing the optimal 𝛼 value from this range that has the lowest MSE. The experimental results show that 𝛼 from Solver and the optimal 𝛼 with step search are not different, and the initial value set by the proposed method outperformed the existing ones regarding the MSE.
Deadline-Aware Scheduling for Transmitted RSU Packets in Cooperative Vehicle-Infrastructure Systems
Authors: Su Beipo , Ju Yongfeng , Dai Liang
Published: March 2023

In Cooperative Vehicle Infrastructure System (CVIS), the roadside unit (RSU) obtains many kinds of monitoring data through observation equipment carried by the RSU. The monitoring data from RSUs are transmitted to an RSU that is connected to the backbone network using the “store–carry–forward” scheme through the mobile vehicle. The monitoring data obtained by RSUs are timely, and different types of monitoring data have corresponding timelines. Reducing end-to-end delays to ensure more packets can be transmitted before deadlines is challenging. In this paper, we propose a Distributed Packet Scheduling Scheme for Delay-Packets Queue Length Tradeoff System (DDPS) in CVIS to solve the multi-RSU-distributed packet transmission problem. We also establish the vehicle speed state, vehicle communication quantity prediction, data arrival, and end-to-end delay minimization models. After Lyapunov’s optimization theory transformed the optimization model, a knapsack problem was described. The simulation results verified that DDPS reduced the end-to-end average delay and ensured the data queue’s stability under packet deadline conditions.
Enhanced Mechanical Joining between Carbon-Fiber- Reinforced Plastic and Steel Plates Using the Clearance-Filling Effect of Structural Adhesive
Authors: Kwon Dong-Jun , Park Jaehyun , Yoo Hyeong-Min
Published: March 2023

When carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) and steel are joined using blind riveting and bolting, fastener inclination occurs due to the clearance between the fastener and hole. To this end, this study investigated the unavoidable occurrence of clearance when joining metal and composite materials using mechanical fastening. The effect of inclination on the lap shear strength (LSS) was quantitatively investigated under various conditions. In riveting, breakage occurred mainly in the rivet; the LSS between the CFRP and steel improved by approximately 33% when the clearance was filled with structural adhesive compared to that in the unfilled state. In bolting, a washer was essential since it not only reduced the force exerted on the bolt but also reduced the bending deformation of the steel plate where breakage occurred. The clearance-filling effect showed the same effect as using a washer even without using it. In addition, the LSS was improved by approximately 10% by filling the clearance with a structural adhesive in the case of bolting with washers. Additionally, the force distribution for the fastening segment was calculated under the application of an external force, and the results demonstrated that hybrid-bonded fastening using a clearance-filling during mechanical bonding is essential for strong fastening.
A Novel Method to Generate Auto-Labeled Datasets for 3D Vehicle Identification Using a New Contrast Model
Authors: Gutierrez-Cabello Guillermo S. , Talavera Edgar , Iglesias Guillermo , Clavijo Miguel , Jiménez Felipe
Published: March 2023

Auto-labeling is one of the main challenges in 3D vehicle detection. Auto-labeled datasets can be used to identify objects in LiDAR data, which is a challenging task due to the large size of the dataset. In this work, we propose a novel methodology to generate new 3D based auto-labeling datasets with a different point of view setup than the one used in most recognized datasets (KITTI, WAYMO, etc.). The performance of the methodology has been further demonstrated with the development of our own dataset with the auto-generated labels and tested under boundary conditions on a bridge in a fixed position. The proposed methodology is based on the YOLO model trained with the KITTI dataset. From a camera-LiDAR sensor fusion, it is intended to auto-label new datasets while maintaining the consistency of the ground truth. The performance of the model, with respect to the manually labeled KITTI images, achieves an F-Score of 0.957, 0.927 and 0.740 in the easy, moderate and hard images of the dataset. The main contribution of this work is a novel methodology to auto-label autonomous driving datasets using YOLO as the main labeling system. The proposed methodology is tested under boundary conditions and the results show that this approximation can be easily adapted to a wide variety of problems when labeled datasets are not available.
Digital Occlusion Analysis after Orthodontic Treatment: Capabilities of the Intraoral Scanner and T-Scan Novus System
Authors: Shopova Dobromira , Bakova Desislava , Yordanova Svetlana , Yordanova Miroslava , Uzunov Todor
Published: March 2023

Digital technology is becoming increasingly popular in dentistry. The aim of this article is to demonstrate and compare the capabilities of two different digital approaches, namely, intraoral scanning and digital examination of occlusion, in the final analysis of occlusion after orthodontic treatment. The capabilities and limitations of both systems are emphasized to help clinicians determine which system to use in specific cases. Materials and methods: The study included 32 patients (15 males and 17 females) in the retention phase after orthodontic treatment. Patients were aged 15 to 28 years with a mean age of 18.62 years (±4.17), and 62.2% were aged under 18 years. At the beginning of the orthodontic treatment, 18 patients had Angle Class I and 14 had Angle Class II. Overall, 18 patients were treated without extractions and 14 with extractions, while 12 had impacted teeth. All patients wore an Essix retainer in the upper jaw and a fixed canine-to-canine retainer in the lower jaw. Intraoral scanning was performed using Trios color (3Shape, Copenhagen, Denmark, 2014), and digital occlusion imaging was performed using T-Scan Novus (Tekscan, Norwood, MA, USA, 2018). SPSS 23.0 was used to perform descriptive statistical analysis. Result and Conclusion: With the 3Shape system, the contacts are marked based on the proximity between dentitions. The T-Scan system measures the strength of the contacts, regardless of their area. Despite its many advantages, intraoral scanning is not a reliable method for recording occlusions. The results obtained are not incorrect, but they include limited parameters for analysis. The T-Scan system provides comprehensive results and allows analysis and treatment of occlusal dysfunctions. The T-Scan system can provide information on the first contact, strength of the contacts, contact distribution on each tooth, sequence of contacts, maximum bite force and maximum intercuspation, path of the lower jaw movement, and occlusion and disocclusion times as well as record videos with active sequences and distributions of the contacts. There is a good collaboration between intraoral scanning and digital occlusion determination.
Development of Geospatial Data Acquisition, Modeling, and Service Technology for Digital Twin Implementation of Underground Utility Tunnel
Authors: Lee Jaewook , Lee Yonghwan , Hong Changhee
Published: March 2023

In the maintenance domain of the construction industry, digital twins have been actively introduced based on the technologies of the Fourth Industrial Revolution with growing interest in three-dimensional spatial information facility management and disaster response service using digital twin technology. In particular, disasters or abnormal situations in an underground utility tunnel (UTU) can cause serious casualties and property damage since key elements of a city such as power, communications, water supply, and heating facilities are collectively accommodated in a certain underground space. This study established the methodology for implementing an underground utility tunnel through a digital twin. The novelty of this study is demonstrating a sequential procedure of implementing digital twin technology by configuring major layers such as data acquisition, modeling, and service. This methodology can serve as reference material or a training aid for implementing a digital twin of underground facilities or underground utility tunnels in the future; the proposed methodology will be verified when an actual digital twin service is provided.
Preoperative Prediction of Optimal Femoral Implant Size by Regularized Regression on 3D Femoral Bone Shape
Authors: Lambrechts Adriaan , Van Dijck Christophe , Wirix-Speetjens Roel , Vander Sloten Jos , Maes Frederik , Van Huffel Sabine
Published: March 2023

Preoperative determination of implant size for total knee arthroplasty surgery has numerous clinical and logistical benefits. Currently, surgeons use X-ray-based templating to estimate implant size, but this method has low accuracy. Our study aims to improve accuracy by developing a machine learning approach that predicts the required implant size based on a 3D femoral bone mesh, the key factor in determining the correct implant size. A linear regression framework imposing group sparsity on the 3D bone mesh vertex coordinates was proposed based on a dataset of 446 MRI scans. The group sparse regression method was further regularized based on the connectivity of the bone mesh to enforce neighbouring vertices to have similar importance to the model. Our hypergraph regularized group lasso had an accuracy of 70.1% in predicting femoral implant size while the initial implant size prediction provided by the instrumentation manufacturer to the surgeon has an accuracy of 23.1%. Furthermore, our method was capable of predicting the implant size up to one size smaller or larger with an accuracy of 99.1%, thereby surpassing other state-of-the-art methods. The hypergraph regularized group lasso was able to obtain a significantly higher accuracy compared to the implant size prediction provided by the instrumentation manufacturer.