bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Returning Different Organic Materials in Combination with Inorganic Fertilizers on the Diversity of Eukaryotic Microorganisms in Semi-Arid Northern China
Authors: Liu Zhiping , Zhou Huaiping , Xie Wenyan , Yang Zhenxing , Zhang Pengfei
Published: December 2022

Soil eukaryotic microorganisms are important to biodiversity, and returning different kinds of organic materials to the field could improve the biodiversity of soil eukaryotic microorganisms. However, no detailed research has been conducted in the northern China semi-arid area in returning the different organic materials to the field and determining the status of eukaryotic microorganisms. Therefore, we explored the effects of various organic materials returning to the soil in combination with inorganic fertilizer on the diversity and community structure of eukaryotic microorganisms in Shanxi province, China. Soil samples were collected from five different fertilization treatments: chemical fertilizer (F), chemical fertilizer + cattle manure (FM), chemical fertilizer + straw (FS), chemical fertilizer + pig manure (FC) and control without fertilizers (CK). High-throughput sequencing was applied to analyze the eukaryotic diversity and community structure. Results showed that the dominant eukaryotic microorganisms among soil samples were Fungi, Viridiplantae, Metazoa and Protist. Although α-diversity was not significantly different among the five treatments, principal coordinate analysis and permutational multivariate analysis of variance illustrated significant differences (p < 0.001) in β-diversity of eukaryotic microorganism under treatments with different organic materials. Redundancy analysis showed that the soil properties, including total potassium, available nitrogen, available potassium and organic matter were the main factors attributed to eukaryotic microorganisms’ community structure in this region.
Effect of Seeding Options on Interspecific Competition in Oat (Avena sativa L.)–Common Vetch (Vicia sativa L.) Forage Crops
Authors: Wang Bin , Deng Jianqiang , Wang Tengfei , Ni Wang , Feng Qin , Lan Jian
Published: December 2022

Mixing cereal with legume crops is an efficient approach for improving forage production and ensuring the sustainable development of agriculture and livestock. However, the knowledge of the relationship between forage production and interspecific competition in the forage oat (Avena sativa L.) and common vetch (Vicia sativa L.) mixed cropping system remains unclear. A 2-year field experiment was conducted in 2020 and 2021 to investigate the effects of different mixed cropping systems (peer mixing (PM), alternate-row mixing (AM), cross mixing (CM), bar mixing (BM), sole forage oat (SO), and sole common vetch (SV)) on the dry matter production, forage quality, land equivalent ratio (LER), and competition parameters. The results showed that the system forage yield increased by 13.4–202.8% when forage oat was mixed with common vetch (p < 0.05). However, no significant difference was obtained between the AM and PM mixed cropping systems. Additionally, the forage oat–common vetch mixed cropping improved crude protein yield by 52.5–150.1% compared with monocultures (p < 0.05). The LER values were greater than the one when forage oat was mixed with common vetch, especially for the AM system (averaged 1.38). In addition, forage oat was the dominant crop and had higher aggressiveness and competitive ratios compared to common vetch, but without a significant difference in the aggressiveness and competitive ratio in mixed cropping systems. It indicated that mixing of cereal with legume crops was helpful in enhancing resource use efficiency without obvious interspecific competition. Consequently, the AM mixed cropping system is recommended for supporting the sustainable development of agriculture and livestock production in the arid region of China when considering both forage production and nutritional quality.
A Comparative Study on the Nutrients, Mineral Elements, and Antioxidant Compounds in Different Types of Cruciferous Vegetables
Authors: Wang Jie , Liu Zeci , Dou Jianhua , Lv Jian , Jin Ning , Jin Li , Li Zhaozhuang , Zhang Bo , Tang Zhongqi , Yu Jihua
Published: December 2022

Studies on the diversity within and among cabbage (Brassica oleracea L. var. capitata L.), cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis), and Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa L. ssp. pekinensis) variants are essential for the development of healthy diets. However, most studies on them have been limited to a single species, with little integrated analysis between them. In this study, the diversity within and among these species and varieties is assessed by determining the contents of 15 major characteristic nutrients, antioxidants, and minerals in 12 varieties of cabbage, 9 varieties of cauliflower, and 12 varieties of Chinese cabbage cultivated under the same conditions. The results show that there are significant differences in the compositional distributions of cabbage, cauliflower, and Chinese cabbage. Cabbage has the highest contents of soluble sugars (27.73 mg·kg−1 FW), flavonoids (5.90 mg·g−1 FW), and Fe (46.90 mg·kg−1 DW). Cauliflower is an ideal source of soluble protein (603.04 mg·kg−1 FW), polyphenols (1.53 mg·g−1 FW), glucosinolates (25.27 μmol·g−1 FW), and Cu (4.25 mg·kg−1 DW). Chinese cabbage is rich in vitamin C (0.45 mg·g−1 FW) and minerals (K, Ca, Mg, P, Mn, and Zn, at 9206.67 mg·kg−1 DW, 3297.00 mg·kg−1 DW, 3322.79 mg·kg−1 DW, 5614.78 mg·kg−1 DW, 15.36 mg·kg−1 DW, and 21.87 mg·kg−1 DW, respectively). There is a correlation between the quality, antioxidant properties, and minerals of the three species. In principal component analysis, a wide distribution of cabbage varieties and a high degree of overlap with the confidence ellipse of cauliflower are observed, indicating that certain cabbage varieties share compositional characteristics with cauliflower. These findings provide a reference for selecting varieties with higher nutritional value and antioxidant properties, as well as breeding new varieties.
Evaluation of In Vitro Morphogenic Response of Triticum urartu, a Donor of Au Genome of Modern Wheat
Authors: Miroshnichenko Dmitry , Sidorova Tatiana , Dolgov Sergey
Published: December 2022

Triticum urartu Thum. ex Gandil. is a wild diploid wheat species (2n = 2x = 14) that is an Au genome donor of modern polyploid cultivars of durum and bread wheat. In the last decade, this relict species has attracted breeders as donors of various agronomically important characteristics to broaden the genetic diversity of cultivated wheat. In addition, T. urartu can be considered as a model species for studying the evolution, biology and genomics of wheat without the cross-influence of homologous sub-genomes. Various genetic engineering technologies, including transgenesis and genome editing, may be applied to facilitate the functional characterization of genes located in A chromosomes. Such biotechnological techniques are still required for the efficient tissue culture systems to allow easy plant regeneration. The objective of our study was to assess the abilities of in vitro plant regeneration from zygotic immature embryo-derived tissues of spring and winter types of T. urartu. Three synthetic auxins, 2,4-D, Dicamba and Picloram, at four concentrations were studied to stimulate morphogenic responses in spring T. urartu. The induction medium supplemented with 4 mg·L−1 Dicamba stimulated the highest frequency of regenerable callus production (65.8%), promoting the generation of 5.7 plants. Although the presence of 2 mg·L−1 2,4-D was less effective in stimulating regenerable callus formation (53.2%) than Dicamba, it allowed the regeneration of more plants from one regenerable callus (9.3 plants). These two treatments also successfully initiated morphogenesis in winter assertions; however, their regenerative capacity was generally lower. The frequency of regenerable callus production was accession-dependent and fluctuated within 31.3 to 49.2%, with a formation of an average 2.2–5.8 plants per callus. The relatively simple and fast regeneration system described in this study could be further used as the basis for regenerating transgenic plants of T. urartu.
Growth and Nutritional Responses of Juvenile Wild and Domesticated Cacao Genotypes to Soil Acidity
Authors: Arévalo-Hernández César O. , Arévalo-Gardini Enrique , Farfan Abel , Amaringo-Gomez Martin , Daymond Andrew , Zhang Dapeng , Baligar Virupax C.
Published: December 2022

Cacao is an important tropical crop and requires high-fertility soils for better growth and productivity; nevertheless, soils where this crop is grown are, in general, acidic and low in fertility. Therefore, germplasm with tolerance to soil acidity is desirable for cacao genetic improvement. The objective of this study was to evaluate cacao germplasm for early growth, nutrient concentration, and potential tolerance to soil acidity. A greenhouse experiment was conducted to evaluate 60 cacao genotypes with diverse geographic origins. Cacao seedlings were grown for six months in acid soil with and without lime. Growth parameters and the total concentration of N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Cu, Mn, and Zn were measured in shoots after harvest. Our results indicate that the best early growth predictors of acid soil tolerance are the number of leaves and root area. N, Ca, Mg, and K uptake may have a potential role in tolerance to soil acidity. Finally, the results revealed a large difference among cacao genotypes in terms of their responses to acid soil stress, which led to the selection of ten genotypes: CCN-51, PH-21, CCN-10, PAS-91, ICT-1087, ICS-95, UF-667, TSH-565, PH-144, ICT-1189 that are potentially tolerant to soil acidity and could be used for breeding acid soil-tolerant cacao varieties.
A New Approach for Improving the Nutritional Quality of Soybean (Glycine max L.) with Iron Slag Coating
Authors: Kim Song Yeob , Ha Ji Su , Kim Pil Joo , Das Suvendu , Gutierreze-Suson Jessie , Kim Gil Won
Published: December 2022

Iron slag, a byproduct of the steel manufacturing process with a high amount of iron (Fe), magnesium (Mg), manganese (Mn) and zinc (Zn), was used as a seed coating material to improve soybean nutrient quality and maintain yield during cultivation. Soybean yield (grain, aboveground, roots) did not differ significantly from the non-coated seeds, but nutrient concentration in soybeans, such as nitrogen, magnesium and manganese, were significantly increased in the iron-coated treatment, by 6%, 20% and 17%, respectively, than in the non-coated seeds. The application of iron slag as a protective seedcoat improved the nutrient concentrations of soybean seeds after harvest and maintained a good yield, implying that the material could be applied worldwide to improve the nutritional quality of soybeans in large scale production.
Ideotype Selection of Perennial Flax (Linum spp.) for Herbaceous Plant Habit Traits
Authors: Tork David G. , Anderson Neil O. , Wyse Donald L. , Betts Kevin J.
Published: December 2022

(1) Background: Annual flax (Linum usitatissimum) and many wild relatives possess showy blue flowers and finely textured foliage. To promote the use of blue-flowered flax as ornamentals, an herbaceous perennial flax breeding program was initiated to develop ideotypes and test their effectiveness. The objectives of this study were to (a) compare traits of interest for herbaceous perennials in breeding populations (CF, oilseed) and accessions of annual/perennial species in a common garden; (b) quantify the impact of selection (direct, indirect) for traits of interest; (c) identify top candidate species for continued breeding using the herbaceous perennial flax crop ideotype; (2) Methods: Recorded traits, based on the perennial flax ideotype, included: flower diameter, flowering period, stem length and diameter, plant width and height, summer and winter survival; (3) Results: OS and CF populations had smaller stem diameters, longer flowering periods, larger plant size, more uniform growth, and improved winter survival compared to wild species. Linum austriacum was the top wild species for the CF breeding ideotype but comparable in performance with L. perenne for the herbaceous perennial flax ideotype; (4) Conclusions: The effect of 1–5 yrs. on selection for target/non-target traits in wild species for future R&D is exemplified with selection and release of an herbaceous/garden ornamental perennial flax for the market.
Dual-Manipulator Optimal Design for Apple Robotic Harvesting
Authors: Xiong Zicong , Feng Qingchun , Li Tao , Xie Feng , Liu Cheng , Liu Le , Guo Xin , Zhao Chunjiang
Published: December 2022

In order to ensure canopy area coverage with the most compact mechanical configuration possible, this paper proposes a configuration optimization design method of dual-manipulator to meet the research and development needs of an apple-efficient harvesting robot using the typical tree shape of a “high spindle” in China as the object. A Cartesian coordinate dual-manipulator with two groups of vertically synchronous operations and a three-degree range of motion based on the features of the spatial distribution of fruits under a typical canopy of dwarf and close planting was designed. Two-stage telescoping components that can be driven by both gas and electricity are employed to ensure the picking robotic arm’s quick response and accessibility to the tree crown. Based on the quantitative description of the working space and configuration parameters of the dual-manipulator, a multi-objective optimization model of the major configuration parameters is constructed. A comprehensive evaluation method of the dual-manipulator configuration based on the CRITIC–TOPSIS combined method is proposed. The optimal solutions of the lengths and elevations of upper and lower telescopic parts of the dual-manipulator and the distance from the mounting base of the outer frame of the dual-manipulator to the center of the tree trunk are determined, which are 1119.3 mm and 39.4°, 898.7 mm and 26°, 755.3 mm, respectively. The interaction between the configuration parameters of the dual-manipulator and its working area is then simulated and examined in order to verify the rationality of the optimum configuration settings. The results show that the optimal configuration of the dual-manipulator can fully cover the target working space, and the redundancy rate is 16.62%. The results of this study can be utilized to advance robotic fruit-picking research and development.
Do Spiders Ride on the Fear of Scorpions? A Cross-Cultural Eye Tracking Study
Authors: Rudolfová Veronika , Štolhoferová Iveta , Elmi Hassan S. A. , Rádlová Silvie , Rexová Kateřina , Berti Daniel A. , Král David , Sommer David , Landová Eva , Frýdlová Petra , Frynta Daniel
Published: December 2022

Deep fear of spiders is common in many countries, yet its origin remains unexplained. In this study, we tested a hypothesis based on recent studies suggesting that fear of spiders might stem from a generalized fear of chelicerates or fear of scorpions. To this end, we conducted an eye tracking experiment using a spontaneous gaze preference paradigm, with spiders and scorpions (previously neglected but crucial stimuli) as threatening stimuli and grasshoppers as control stimuli. In total, 67 participants from Somaliland and 67 participants from the Czech Republic were recruited and presented with a sequence of paired images. Both Somali and Czech people looked longer (total duration of the gaze) and more often (number of fixations) on the threatening stimuli (spiders and scorpions) when presented with a control (grasshopper). When both threatening stimuli were presented together, Somali participants focused significantly more on the scorpion, whereas in Czech participants, the effect was less pronounced, and in Czech women it was not significant. This supports the hypothesis that fear of spiders originated as a generalized fear of scorpions. Moreover, the importance of spiders as fear-eliciting stimuli may be enhanced in the absence of scorpions in the environment.
Analysis of Factors Influencing the Decision-Making Behavior of Beef Cattle Farmers: An Empirical Analysis Based on Logit-ISM Model
Authors: Li Xujun , Zhang Hao , Wang Mingli
Published: December 2022

The beef cattle industry is an important part of herbivorous animal husbandry and an important industry to enrich the dietary structure of residents and promote the income of farmers and herdsmen. The cow is an important foundation to support the healthy development of the beef cattle industry, which is related to the stability of cattle sources and the sustainable development of the industry. However, in recent years, the shortage of cows in our country has led to the shortage of cattle resources and the high price of calves, which has restricted the further development of our beef cattle industry. In order to explore the factors that affect the decision-making behavior behind cow breeding and to find the right policy to mobilize the enthusiasm for cow breeding, based on the field survey of five provinces (cities and regions), including Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region and Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, this paper conducts an empirical analysis through the Logit ISM model. The results show that market expectation is the surface factor that directly affects the decision-making behavior of cow breeding. The influencing factors of the middle layer are policy propaganda, policy subsidies, breeding years, and feeding methods. The deep root factors are the age of the breeder, the amount of loan, and whether to plant feed crops. Based on this, this paper proposes that we should actively promote the importance of cow breeding, strengthen policy support for cow breeding, formulate scientific and reasonable subsidy policies for cows, innovate financial support methods to solve the problem of fund shortage of farmers, and develop forage resources and reduce the breeding cost of cows.
Identification of Key Genes and Biological Pathways Associated with Skeletal Muscle Maturation and Hypertrophy in Bos taurus, Ovis aries, and Sus scrofa
Authors: Mohammadinejad Fatemeh , Mohammadabadi Mohammadreza , Roudbari Zahra , Sadkowski Tomasz
Published: December 2022

The aim of the current study was to identify the major genes and pathways involved in the process of hypertrophy and skeletal muscle maturation that is common for Bos taurus, Ovis aries, and Sus scrofa species. Gene expression profiles related to Bos taurus, Ovis aries, and Sus scrofa muscle, with accession numbers GSE44030, GSE23563, and GSE38518, respectively, were downloaded from the GEO database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened out using the Limma package of R software. Genes with Fold Change > 2 and an adjusted p-value < 0.05 were identified as significantly different between two treatments in each species. Subsequently, gene ontology and pathway enrichment analyses were performed. Moreover, hub genes were detected by creating a protein–protein interaction network (PPI). The results of the analysis in Bos taurus showed that in the period of 280 dpc–3-months old, a total of 1839 genes showed a significant difference. In Ovis aries, however, during the period of 135dpc–2-months old, a total of 486 genes were significantly different. Additionally, in the 91 dpc–adult period, a total of 2949 genes were significantly different in Sus scrofa. The results of the KEGG pathway enrichment analysis and GO function annotation in each species separately revealed that in Bos taurus, DEGs were mainly enriched through skeletal muscle fiber development and skeletal muscle contraction, and the positive regulation of fibroblast proliferation, positive regulation of skeletal muscle fiber development, PPAR signaling pathway, and HIF-1 signaling pathway. In Ovis aries, DEGs were mainly enriched through regulating cell growth, skeletal muscle fiber development, the positive regulation of fibroblast proliferation, skeletal muscle cell differentiation, and the PI3K-Akt signaling, HIF-1 signaling, and Rap1 signaling pathways. In Sus scrofa, DEGs were mainly enriched through regulating striated muscle tissue development, the negative regulation of fibroblast proliferation and myoblast differentiation, and the HIF-1 signaling, AMPK signaling, and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways. Using a Venn diagram, 36 common DEGs were identified between Bos taurus, Ovis aries, and Sus scrofa. A biological pathways analysis of 36 common DEGs in Bos taurus, Ovis aries, and Sus scrofa allowed for the identification of common pathways/biological processes, such as myoblast differentiation, the regulation of muscle cell differentiation, and positive regulation of skeletal muscle fiber development, that orchestrated the development and maturation of skeletal muscle. As a result, hub genes were identified, including PPARGC1A, MYOD1, EPAS1, IGF2, CXCR4, and APOA1, in all examined species. This study provided a better understanding of the relationships between genes and their biological pathways in the skeletal muscle maturation process.
Effect of Thermal Stress on Thermoregulation, Hematological and Hormonal Characteristics of Caracu Beef Cattle
Authors: Abduch Natalya G. , Pires Bianca V. , Souza Luana L. , Vicentini Rogerio R. , Zadra Lenira El Faro , Fragomeni Breno O. , Silva Rafael M. O. , Baldi Fernando , Paz Claudia C. P. , Stafuzza Nedenia B.
Published: December 2022

This study evaluated the influence of environmental temperature on thermoregulation, hormonal, and hematological characteristics in Caracu cattle. Blood samples, hair length, coat and muzzle colors, rectal (RT), and surface temperatures were collected from 48 males and 43 females before (morning) and after sun exposure for eight hours (afternoon). Infrared thermography (IRT) was used to identify superficial temperature that exhibits a high correlation with RT. Hematological parameters, hormone concentrations, RT, and the superficial temperature obtained by IRT that exhibited the highest correlation with RT were evaluated by variance analysis. Regarding IRT, the lower left side of the body (LS) showed the highest correlation with the RT. Interaction between period and sex was observed for LS, cortisol, and eosinophils. Cortisone, progesterone, and RT were influenced by period and sex. Neutrophils and segmented neutrophils were influenced by the period, which showed the highest concentrations after sun exposure. Platelets, leukocytes, lymphocytes, and monocytes were influenced by sex. Heat stress changes several physiological characteristics where males and females exhibited differences in their responses to heat stress. Furthermore, most characteristics evaluated remained within the regular values observed for taurine Creole breeds, showing that Caracu is adapted to tropical climates.
Gut Microbiota, Intestinal Morphometric Characteristics, and Gene Expression in Relation to the Growth Performance of Chickens
Authors: Abdel-Kafy El-Sayed M. , Youssef Sabbah F. , Magdy Mahmoud , Ghoneim Shereen S. , Abdelatif Hesham A. , Deif-Allah Randa A. , Abdel-Ghafar Yasmein Z. , Shabaan Hoda M. A. , Liu Huazhen , Elokil Abdelmotaleb
Published: December 2022

this study aimed to investigate the growth mechanism in a local breed of chickens by comparing the highest weight (HW) and the lowest weight in their microbiota, histological characteristics, and gene expression. Golden Montazah chickens, an Egyptian breed, were reared until they were 49 days old. All of the birds were fed ad libitum by a starter diet from day 1 until day 21, followed by a grower diet from day 21 to the end of the study. At 49 days old, the forty-eight birds with the heaviest body weight (HW) and the lightest body weight (LW) were chosen. Blood biochemical and histological morphometric parameters, electron microscopy, and intestinal nutrient transporter gene expression were studied in the sampled jejunum. The microbial composition and functions of the content and mucosa in HW and LW chickens were studied using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The histological morphometric parameters were all more significantly (p < 0.05) increased in the HW chickens than in the LW chickens. Total protein, albumin, and triglycerides in serum were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the HW chickens than in the LW chickens. The microbiome profile in the gut showed that Microbacterium and Sphingomonas were positively correlated with the body weights. In the local breed, there were significant differences in the intestinal microstructure which could enhance the growth mechanism and body weight. Our findings showed that some microbial components were significantly associated with body weight and their interactions with the host could be inferred to explain why these interactions might alter the host’s metabolic responses. Further investigation into combining bioinformatics with lab experiments in chickens will help us to understand how gut bacteria can change the host’s metabolism by special metabolic features in the gastrointestinal system.
Persistent Organic Pollutants and Fatty Acid Profile in a Typical Cheese from Extensive Farms: First Assessment of Human Exposure by Dietary Intake
Authors: Giosuè Cristina , D’Agostino Fabio , Maniaci Giuseppe , Avellone Giuseppe , Sciortino Marzia , De Caro Viviana , Bonanno Adriana , Ponte Marialetizia , Alabiso Marco , Di Grigoli Antonino
Published: December 2022

Dairy products represent an important source of beneficial substances for humans. At the same time, they can expose the consumers to environmental contaminants ingested by animals through their diet, influencing their health negatively. This experiment aims to evaluate the risk and benefits related to the consumption of typical stretched cheeses, considering their fatty acid (FA) profile and persistent organic pollutants (POPs) content. Six representative farms, two of them organic, raising Cinisara cattle were selected, considering the typical extensive management systems, based on feeding of natural pasture integrated with concentrate and hay depending on the availability of forage on pastures. A total of 18 cheeses produced in winter, spring and summer with bulk milk of each farm were sampled and analyzed. The chemical composition of cheeses was influenced by farm management, and the FA profile mainly by the season. In particular, cheeses made in spring showed a healthier FA profile with the content of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), of omega3-PUFA and omega6/omega3 ratio pair to 7.29%, 1.44% and 1.32, respectively, while in winter 5.44%, 0.98% and 2.55, respectively, and in summer 4.77% 0.49% and 3.04, respectively. Due to high levels of feeding integration, cheese made in winter presented unhealthier characteristics compared to the cheeses made in spring and summer, showing high levels of saturated FA (66.2%, 64.2% and 65.5%, respectively), and large contents of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) (57.07 ng/g fat, 36.25 ng/g fat and 10.22 ng/g fat, respectively) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) (36.19 ng/g fat, 4.68 ng/g fat and 3.73 ng/g fat, respectively), mainly in those from non-organic farms. Levels of PCBs considered to be hazardous to human health were found in nine samples.
Description of a New Cobra (Naja Laurenti, 1768; Squamata, Elapidae) from China with Designation of a Neotype for Naja atra
Authors: Shi Sheng-Chao , Vogel Gernot , Ding Li , Rao Ding-Qi , Liu Shuo , Zhang Liang , Wu Zheng-Jun , Chen Ze-Ning
Published: December 2022

Taxonomic frameworks for medically important species such as cobras (genus Naja Laurenti, 1768; Squamata, Elapidae) are essential for the medical treatment of snake bites and accurate antivenin development. In this paper, we described the former N. kaouthia populations recorded from China as a new species and designated a neotype for N. atra-based morphological and mitochondrial phylogenetic analysis. The new species N. fuxisp. nov. was morphologically diagnosed from N. kaouthia by (1) regular single narrow crossband present on the middle and posterior parts of the dorsum (3–15, 7.9 ± 2.7, n = 32) and the dorsal surface of the tail (1–6, 4.2 ± 1.1, n = 32) of both adults and juveniles, buff-colored with dark fringes on both edges, vs. South Asian populations (n = 39) and Southeast Asian populations (n = 35) without cross bands, with irregular cross bands or multiple light-colored crossbands pairs, or densely woven lines; (2) small scales between the posterior chin shields, usually three (40%) or two (37%), rarely four (13%), or one (10%) (n = 30) vs. mostly one (81%) and rarely two (19%) (n = 28); (3) ventrals 179–205 (195.4 ± 6.7, n = 33) vs. South Asian populations 179–199 (188.7 ± 5.9, n = 12); Southeast Asian populations 168–186 (177.8 ± 4.9, n = 18). Phylogenetically, the new species forms an independent sister clade to the clade including N. atra, N. kaouthia, N. oxiana and N. sagittifera. Furthermore, the subspecies N. naja polyocellata should be resurrected and recognized as a full species, N. polyocellatacomb. nov., and the subspecies N. sumatrana miolepis should be resurrected.
Antifungal and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of PS1-2 Peptide against Fluconazole-Resistant Candida albicans
Authors: Lee Jong-Kook , Park Soyoung , Kim Young-Min , Guk Taeuk , Choi Jong Kwon , Kim Jin-Young , Lee Min-Young , Jang Mi-Kyeong , Park Seong-Cheol
Published: December 2022

Clinically, fungal pneumonia rarely occurs in adults, and invasive fungal infections can cause substantial morbidity, and mortality due to sepsis and septic shock. In the present study, we have designed peptides that exhibit potent antifungal activities against fluconazole-resistant Candida albicans in physiological monovalent, and divalent ionic buffers, with minimal fungicidal concentrations ranging from 16 to 32 µM. None of these tested peptides resulted in the development of drug resistance similar to fluconazole. Among them, the PS1-2 peptide did not induce stimulation of macrophages by C. albicans, and it exerted antifungal and anti-inflammatory effects against C. albicans-induced intratracheal infection, in an acute lung injury mouse model. PS1-2 is likely a novel therapeutic agent for the control, and prevention of drug-resistant C. albicans infection, and our findings may be useful for designing antimicrobial peptides to combat fungal infection.
Biosynthesised Silver Nanoparticles Loading onto Biphasic Calcium Phosphate for Antibacterial and Bone Tissue Engineering Applications
Authors: Padmanabhan Varun Prasath , Sivashanmugam Pugalmani , Kulandaivelu Ravichandran , Sagadevan Suresh , Sridevi Balu , Govindasamy Rajakumar , Thiruvengadam Muthu
Published: December 2022

Biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP) serves as one of the substitutes for bone as it consists of an intimate mixture of beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) and hydroxyapatite (HAP) in different ratios. BCP, because of its inbuilt properties such as osteoconductivity, biocompatibility, and biostability in several clinical models serves as a bone substituent for orthopedic applications. Therefore, the present study aimed to assess the effectiveness of silver (Ag) nanoparticles (NPs) combined with BCP composites for the orthopedic sector of bone tissue regeneration and growth. In this regard, we first synthesized Ag-BCP microclusters by the double-emulsion method and then characterized the composite for various physicochemical properties, including the crystallinity and crystal structure, bonding and functionality, porosity, morphology, surface charges, topography, and thermal stability. In addition, the antibacterial activity of Ag-BCP was tested against gram-positive and gram-negative microorganisms such as Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans, and Escherichia coli. Finally, the cytocompatibility of Ag-BCP was confirmed against the fibroblast cells in vitro.
Rational Use of Antibiotics and Education Improved Aeromonas Necrotizing Fasciitis Outcomes in Taiwan: A 19-Year Experience
Authors: Huang Tsung-Yu , Tsai Yao-Hung , Lee Ching-Yu , Hsu Wei-Hsiu , Hsiao Cheng-Ting , Huang Yao-Kuang , Li Yen-Yao , Chen Jiun-Liang , Kuo Shu-Fang , Hsiao Jo-Chun , Li Hsing-Jung , Hung Chien-Hui , Peng Kuo-Ti
Published: December 2022

Background. Aeromonas necrotizing fasciitis (NF) causes high rates of amputation and mortality, even after aggressive surgical debridement and antibacterial therapy. This study investigated the effects of rational use of antibiotics and education by infectious disease (ID) physicians on Aeromonas NF treatment outcomes. Methods. Retrospective review for conducted for four years (period I, without an ID physician, December 2001 to December 2005) and 15 years (period II, with an ID physician, January 2006 to March 2021). In period II, the hospital-wide computerized antimicrobial approval system (HCAAS) was also implemented. A pretest-posttest time series analysis compared the two periods. Differences in clinical outcomes, demographics, comorbidities, signs and symptoms, laboratory findings, Aeromonas antibiotic susceptibility, and antibiotic regimens were compared between the two periods. Results. There were 19 patients in period I and 53 patients in period II. Patients had a lower rate of amputation or mortality in period II (35.8%) compared with period I (63.2%). Forty-four patients (61.1%) had polymicrobial infections. In the emergency room, the rate of misdiagnosis decreased from 47.4% in period I to 28.3% in period II, while effective empiric antibiotic usage increased from 21.1% in period I to 66.0% in period II. After the ID physician’s adjustment, 69.4% received monotherapy in period II compared to 33.3% in period I. Conclusions. Because Aeromonas NF had a high mortality rate and was often polymicrobial, choosing an antibiotic regimen was difficult. Using the HCAAS by an experienced ID physician can improve rational antibiotic usage and clinical outcomes in Aeromonas NF.
In Vitro Antimycobacterial Activity of Human Lactoferrin-Derived Peptide, D-hLF 1-11, against Susceptible and Drug-Resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Its Synergistic Effect with Rifampicin
Authors: Intorasoot Sorasak , Intorasoot Amornrat , Tawteamwong Arocha , Butr-Indr Bordin , Phunpae Ponrut , Tharinjaroen Chayada Sitthidet , Wattananandkul Usanee , Sangboonruang Sirikwan , Khantipongse Jiaranai
Published: December 2022

Tuberculosis is a highly contagious disease caused by the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC). Although TB is treatable, multidrug-resistant, extensively drug-resistant, and totally drug-resistant forms of M. tuberculosis have become a new life-threatening concern. New anti-TB drugs that are capable of curing these drug-resistant strains are urgently needed. The purpose of this study is to determine the antimycobacterial activity of D-enantiomer human lactoferricin 1-11 (D-hLF 1-11) against mycobacteria in vitro using a 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-dephenyltetrazolium bromide colorimetric assay, resazurin microplate assay, and microscopic observation drug susceptibility assay. Three previously described antimicrobial peptides, protegrin-1, AK 15-6, and melittin, with potent anti-TB activity, were included in this study. The findings suggest that D-hLF 1-11 can inhibit the growth of M. tuberculosis with a minimum inhibitory concentration of 100–200 µg/mL in susceptible, isoniazid (INH)-monoresistant, rifampicin (RF)-monoresistant, and MDR strains. The peptide can also inhibit some nontuberculous mycobacteria and other MTBC in similar concentrations. The antibiofilm activity of D-hLF 1-11 against the biofilm-forming M. abscessus was determined by crystal violet staining, and no significant difference is observed between the treated and untreated biofilm control. The checkerboard assay was subsequently carried out with M. tuberculosis H37Rv and the results indicate that D-hLF 1-11 displays an additive effect when combined with INH and a synergistic effect when combined with RF, with fractional inhibitory concentration indices of 0.730 and 0.312, respectively. The red blood cell hemolytic assay was initially applied for the toxicity determination of D-hLF 1-11, and negligible hemolysis (<1%) was observed, despite a concentration of up to 4 mg/mL being evaluated. Overall, D-hLF 1-11 has potential as a novel antimycobacterial agent for the future treatment of drug-sensitive and drug-resistant M. tuberculosis infections.
Phage Therapy vs. the Use of Antibiotics in the Treatment of Salmonella-Infected Chickens: Comparison of Effects on Hematological Parameters and Selected Biochemical Markers
Authors: Grabowski Łukasz , Węgrzyn Grzegorz , Węgrzyn Alicja , Podlacha Magdalena
Published: December 2022

Previous studies indicated that the use of a phage cocktail, composed of bacteriophages vB_SenM-2 and vB_Sen-TO17, is effective in killing cells of Salmonella enterica serovars Typhimurium and Enteritidis in vitro and in the Galleria mellonella animal model as efficiently as antibiotics (enrofloxacin or colistin) and induced fewer deleterious changes in immune responses. Here, we investigated the effects of this phage cocktail on the hematological parameters and selected biochemical markers in chickens infected with S. enterica serovar Typhimurium, in comparison to those caused by enrofloxacin or colistin. We found that treatment with antibiotics (especially with enrofloxacin) caused nonbeneficial effects on red blood cell parameters, including hematocrit, MCV, MCH, and MCHC. However, Salmonella-induced changes in the aforementioned parameters were normalized by the use of the phage cocktail. Importantly, hepatotoxicity was suggested to be induced by both antibiotics on the basis of increased alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activities, in contrast to the phage cocktail, which did not influence these enzymes. We conclude that phage therapy with the cocktail of vB_SenM-2 and vB_Sen-TO17 in Salmonella-infected chickens is not only as effective as antibiotics but also significantly safer for the birds than enrofloxacin and colistin.
Combination Therapy versus Monotherapy in the Treatment of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia Infections: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Prawang Abhisit , Chanjamlong Naphatsawan , Rungwara Woranattha , Santimaleeworagun Wichai , Paiboonvong Taniya , Manapattanasatein Thidarat , Pitirattanaworranat Prompiriya , Kitseree Pongsakorn , Kanchanasurakit Sukrit
Published: December 2022

Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is a multidrug-resistant bacterium that is difficult to treat in hospitals worldwide, leading to high mortality. Published data describing the use of monotherapy or combination therapy and which one is better is still unclear. We aimed to investigate the efficacy of monotherapy and combination therapy in the treatment of S. maltophilia infections. We performed a systematic review of combination therapy and additionally a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the effects of monotherapy versus combination therapy on mortality in S. maltophilia infections. Electronic databases: Cochrane Library, PubMed, Embase, ClinicalTrials.gov, Scopus, and OpenGrey were accessed. Of the 5030 articles identified, 17 studies were included for a systematic review of combination therapy, of which 4 cohort studies were finally included for meta-analysis. We found there is a trend of favorable outcomes with respect to mortality in the use of combination therapy to treat complex or severe S. maltopholia infections. A meta-analysis of monotherapy showed a statistical significance in the decreasing rate of mortality in hospital-acquired pneumonia (hazard ratio 1.42; 95% confidence interval, 1.04–1.94) compared to combination therapy, but not significant in bacteremia (hazard ratio 0.76; 95% confidence interval, 0.18–3.18). Further studies should continue to explore this association.
NRF2/Itaconate Axis Regulates Metabolism and Inflammatory Properties of T Cells in Children with JIA
Authors: Rajendiran Anandhi , Subramanyam Sudheendra Hebbar , Klemm Patricia , Jankowski Vera , van Loosdregt Jorg , Vastert Bas , Vollbach Kristina , Wagner Norbert , Tenbrock Klaus , Ohl Kim
Published: December 2022

Background: CD4+ T cells critically contribute to the initiation and perturbation of inflammation. When CD4+ T cells enter inflamed tissues, they adapt to hypoxia and oxidative stress conditions, and to a reduction in nutrients. We aimed to investigate how this distinct environment regulates T cell responses within the inflamed joints of patients with childhood rheumatism (JIA) by analyzing the behavior of NRF2—the key regulator of the anti-oxidative stress response—and its signaling pathways. Methods: Flow cytometry and quantitative RT-PCR were used to perform metabolic profiling of T cells and to measure the production of inflammatory cytokines. Loss of function analyses were carried out by means of siRNA transfection experiments. NRF2 activation was induced by treatment with 4-octyl-Itaconate (4-OI). Results: Flow cytometry analyses revealed a high metabolic status in CD4+ T cells taken from synovial fluid (SF) with greater mitochondrial mass, and increased glucose and fatty acid uptake. This resulted in a heightened oxidative status of SF CD4+ T cells. Despite raised ROS levels, expression of NRF2 and its target gene NQO1 were lower in CD4+ T cells from SF than in those from blood. Indeed, NRF2 activation of CD4+ T cells downregulated oxidative stress markers, altered the metabolic phenotype and reduced secretion of IFN-γ. Conclusion: NRF2 could be a potential regulator in CD4+ T cells during chronic inflammation and could instigate a drift toward disease progression or regression, depending on the inflammatory environment.
Crack Location and Degree Detection Method Based on YOLOX Model
Authors: Wang Linlin , Li Junjie , Kang Fei
Published: December 2022

Damage detection and evaluation are concerns in structural health monitoring. Traditional damage detection techniques are inefficient because of the need for damage detection before evaluation. To address these problems, a novel crack location and degree detector based on YOLOX is proposed, which directly realizes damage detection and evaluation. Moreover, the detector presents a superior detection effect and speed to other advanced deep learning models. Additionally, rather than at the pixel level, the detection results are determined in actual scales according to resolution. The results demonstrate that the proposed model can detect and evaluate damage accurately and automatically.
Natural Characteristics Analysis of a Dual-Rotor System with Nonparametric Uncertainty
Authors: Wu Hangfei , Liu Baoguo , Liu Yanxu , Feng Wei
Published: December 2022

In order to evaluate the impacts of parameter uncertainty and nonparametric uncertainty on the natural characteristics of a dual-rotor system, a nonparametric probabilistic method based on random matrix theory is proposed. In this paper, a nonparametric Riccati whole transfer model is derived based on the maximum entropy principle and the random matrix theory. It is used to model a dual-rotor system with nonparametric uncertainty, as well as to calculate the natural characteristics of the system. Furthermore, the impacts of parameter uncertainty and nonparametric uncertainty on the natural characteristics at the intermediate support element and at the disk-shaft element are discussed using numerical simulations, and the results are compared with related references. The results show that at the same level of uncertainties, the effect of nonparametric uncertainty is often more significant than that of parameter uncertainty. The effects of uncertainties also increase with the level of uncertainties. The results of this paper provide a theoretical basis for the design of uncertain dual-rotor and multi-rotor systems.
A Study of a Cornering Braking Control System for a Motorcycle
Authors: Zhang Xiao-Dong , Chen Chih-Keng
Published: December 2022

Motorcycles are widely used in people’s daily lives for their convenience. Due to their characteristic of static instability, they have a larger roll angle than cars when turning, which brings the hidden danger of overturning. When a motorcycle is turning and braking simultaneously, the overturn risk rises dramatically. This study presents a novel control system that can ensure stability and braking performance during turning and braking. Given the direct impact of tires on a motorcycle’s behavior, a motorcycle tire model was created via Magic Formula to determine the kinematic parameters that have correlated effects on the longitudinal and lateral characteristics of tires. The slip ratio was defined as the manipulated variable, and a constrained optimization model that aimed to maximize the braking performance and took the stability as the constraint condition was created and solved through the gold section method. The obtained optimal slip ratio was then used as the input for the proposed cornering braking control system that adopted the Fuzzy PID algorithm. Finally, the feasibility of the proposed controller was tested via a co-simulation method, and the simulation results were compared with an ordinary anti-lock braking system. The results demonstrate that the proposed cornering braking control system can take both motorcycle stability and braking performance into consideration at the same time, effectively increasing the security of a motorcycle during braking in a turn.
Numerical Modelling of Erythrocyte Sticking Mechanics
Authors: Jasevičius Raimondas
Published: December 2022

The mechanics of thrombus formation includes the interaction of platelets, fibrin, and erythrocytes. The interaction was analyzed as the erythrocyte approaches the activated platelet and fibrin thrombus formation. The discrete element method (DEM) was used for the numerical experiment. Details of numerical experiments are presented by analyzing the dynamics of an erythrocyte in the process of interaction; a history of force, velocity, and displacement is given. It is usually assumed that the objects modeled by the DEM can oscillate during the sticking process. Modeling only this requires specialized knowledge and long-term research. However, by taking into account the influence of the fluid and modeling a soft biological cell, a completely different behavior can be achieved using the DEM method. The results of the numerical experiment show the different behavior of the erythrocyte when it interacts with a certain surface. Without taking into account the influence of the fluid in the sticking process, oscillations of the erythrocyte are observed. Meanwhile, after evaluating the influence of the liquid on the sticking process, there are no oscillations and unloading processes, which are typical for ultrafine objects. It is hoped that this will contribute to the study of the complex process of thrombus formation.
Comparison of Race Performance Characteristics for the 50 m and 100 m Freestyle among Regional-Level Male Swimmers
Authors: Wądrzyk Łukasz , Staszkiewicz Robert , Strzała Marek
Published: December 2022

Race analysis performed by faster and slower swimmers enables the definition of effective strategies for carrying out the competition. Until now, measurements of this type were mainly conducted among top-level athletes. The aim of the study was to determine the differences in swimming technique in sprint races between faster (FS) and slower (SS) regional-level swimmers. The performance of 33 swimmers (mean FINA points = 449) competing in 50 m and 100 m freestyle races was analysed. To determine the velocity (v), stroke rate (SR), stroke length (SL), and stroke index (SI), races were recorded with the use of cameras. Using the Student’s t-test and Mann–Whitney U test, the results were compared for two groups: FS (mean FINA points = 557) and SS (mean FINA points = 379). In the 100 m competition, differences between groups were noticed in v (1.70 and 1.51 m/s), SL (2.06 and 1.85 m), and SI (3.52 and 2.80 m2/s), while in the 50 m competition, they were noticed in v (1.95 and 1.73 m/s), SR (59.46 and 55.01 cycle/min), and SI (3.44 and 3.04 m2/s, respectively for the FS and SS groups). Adapting the technique to a shorter distance should be performed by increasing the frequency of movements. At the same time, the decrease in SL should be controlled. The indicator enabling the assessment of technical effectiveness, regardless of the distance, is the SI. The 50 and 100 m freestyle races require specific technical skills to be mastered. Therefore, the development of technique in swimmers should include its various variants.