bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tacrolimus—why pharmacokinetics matter in the clinic
Authors: Henkel Lino , Jehn Ulrich , Thölking Gerold , Reuter Stefan
Published: August 2023

The calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) Tacrolimus (Tac) is the most prescribed immunosuppressant drug after solid organ transplantation. After renal transplantation (RTx) approximately 95% of recipients are discharged with a Tac-based immunosuppressive regime. Despite the high immunosuppressive efficacy, its adverse effects, narrow therapeutic window and high intra- and interpatient variability (IPV) in pharmacokinetics require therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM), which makes treatment with Tac a major challenge for physicians. The C/D ratio (full blood trough level normalized by daily dose) is able to classify patients receiving Tac into two major metabolism groups, which were significantly associated with the clinical outcomes of patients after renal or liver transplantation. Therefore, the C/D ratio is a simple but effective tool to identify patients at risk of an unfavorable outcome. This review highlights the challenges of Tac-based immunosuppressive therapy faced by transplant physicians in their daily routine, the underlying causes and pharmacokinetics (including genetics, interactions, and differences between available Tac formulations), and the latest data on potential solutions to optimize treatment of high-risk patients.
Adoption and intensity of integrated agriculture aquaculture among smallholder fish farmers in Kenya
Authors: Awuor Fonda Jane , Macharia Ibrahim Ndegwa , Mulwa Richard Mbithi
Published: August 2023

This paper examined the adoption and intensity of using integrated agriculture aquaculture (IAA) among smallholder fish farming households in Kenya. The analysis was based on crossectional farm-level data collected from four counties in Kenya: Nyeri, Kakamega, Siaya, and Busia. Results showed that risk plays a central role in farmers’ decisions through the direct effect of the sample moments of the profit distribution. Specifically, the first moment (mean profit) had a highly significant positive effect on the adoption and intensity of IAA. Profit variability, as reflected by the second moment, negatively impacted adoption and the intensity of IAA. Other factors that were important in IAA adoption included the proportion of economically active members, full-time land ownership, awareness of IAA, accessibility to irrigation, and flat farm topography, all of which were statistically significant in influencing IAA adoption positively. Other factors which were found to influence the intensity of IAA positively and significantly were: age, education level, number of economically active members, full-time land ownership, awareness of IAA, flat farm topography, and clay soil type. Thus, IAA should be promoted alongside farmers’ education, farm size, access to affordable and accessible credit, number of farm enterprises, and IAA awareness as a mechanism for enhancing smallholder IAA adoption and intensity of use.
Understanding the bacillary load and host interaction to design a point-of-care test to diagnose tuberculosis
Authors: Cardona Pere-Joan
Published: August 2023

Designing of a Point-of-care test to diagnose tuberculosis (TB) is not an easy task. This viewpoint stems from the dichotomous diagnostic approach, based on the bacillary load estimated in latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI), thanks to the isoniazid chemoprophylaxis strategy, as well as the importance of imaging to differentiate between LTBI and TB. It integrates the “TB spectrum” elucidated through positron emission tomography-computed tomography scan (PET-CT) to highlight the dynamic nature of TB lesions. Additionally, it emphasizes the relevance of animal models that support this perspective, including the drainage of bacilli through foamy macrophages, which aids in understanding LTBI and its chemoprophylaxis, and the significance of lung anatomy in TB induction. Especially the role of interlobular septa and the encapsulation process and its role in lung lobe predilection impact disease progression. Moreover, it acknowledges the gender bias in TB, as its incidence is significantly higher in men across various socioeconomic circumstances, suggesting an unidentified biological mechanism. For a comprehensive approach, the impact of stress and cortisol levels is suggested as a new parameter to be considered, given their association with poverty, and social inequity, and their tendency to be higher in men. All this information has to be contemplated when designing an accurate point-of-care test. The test should encompass the complexity of TB and necessarily integrate both bacillary and host response parameters. It also should cover the diagnosis of extrapulmonary TB, and pay attention to immunosuppressed and pediatric population.
Assessment of microcirculation variables and endothelial glycocalyx using sidestream dark field videomicroscopy in anesthetized dogs undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass
Authors: Diaz Devon M. , Orton E. Christopher , de Rezende Marlis L. , Zersen Kristin , Guillaumin Julien
Published: August 2023

Introduction

To evaluate microcirculation and endothelial glycocalyx (eGC) variables using sidestream darkfield (SDF) videomicroscopy in canine cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB).

Methods

Dogs undergoing CPB for surgical correction of naturally-occurring cardiac disease were prospectively included. Variables collected included patient demographics, underlying cardiac disease, red blood cell flow (Flow), 4-25 μm vessel density (Density), absolute capillary blood volume (CBVabs), relative capillary blood volume (CBVrel) and eGC width assessed by perfused boundary region (PBR). Anesthetized healthy dogs were used as control. Microcirculation and eGC variables were compared at baseline under anesthesia (T0), on CPB prior to cross clamping (T1), after cross clamp removal following surgical correction (T2) and at surgical closure (T3).

Results

Twelve dogs were enrolled, including 10 with a complete dataset. Median Flow was 233.9, 79.9, 164.3, and 136.1 μm/s at T0, T1, T2, and T3, respectively, (p = 1.00). Median Density was 173.3, 118.4, 121.0 and 155.4 mm/mm2at T0, T1, T2, and T3, respectively, (p = 1.00). Median CBVabs decreased over time: 7.4, 6.6, 4.8 and 4.7 103μm3at T0, T1, T2, and T3, respectively, (p < 0.01). Median CBVrel increased over time: 1.1, 1.5,1.1, and 1.3 103μm3at T0, T1, T2, and T3, respectively, (p < 0.001). Median PBR increased over time: 1.8, 2.1, 2.4, 2.1 μm at T0, T1, T2, and T3, respectively, (p < 0.001). Compared to control dogs (n = 8), CPB dogs had lower CBVabs at T0.

Conclusion

Alterations in eGC thickness and microvascular occur in dogs undergoing CPB for naturally-occurring cardiac disease.
Research on Machine Vision-Based Control System for Cold Storage Warehouse Robots
Authors: Wei Zejiong , Tian Feng , Qiu Zhehang , Yang Zhechen , Zhan Runyang , Zhan Jianming
Published: August 2023

In recent years, the global cold chain logistics market has grown rapidly, but the level of automation remains low. Compared to traditional logistics, automation in cold storage logistics requires a balance between safety and efficiency, and the current detection algorithms are poor at meeting these requirements. Therefore, based on YOLOv5, this paper proposes a recognition and grasping system for cartons in cold storage warehouses. A human–machine interaction system is designed for the cold storage environment, enabling remote control and unmanned grasping. At the algorithm level, the CA attention mechanism is introduced to improve accuracy. The Ghost lightweight module replaces the CBS structure to enhance runtime speed. The Alpha-DIoU loss function is utilized to improve detection accuracy. With the comprehensive improvements, the modified algorithm in this study achieves a 0.711% increase in mAP and a 0.7% increase in FPS while maintaining accuracy. Experimental results demonstrate that the CA attention mechanism increases fidelity by 2.32%, the Ghost lightweight module reduces response time by 13.89%, and the Alpha-DIoU loss function enhances positioning accuracy by 7.14%. By incorporating all the improvements, the system exhibits a 2.16% reduction in response time, a 4.67% improvement in positioning accuracy, and a significant overall performance enhancement.
Primary Psychopathy in Formal Leaders and Job Satisfaction Levels of Employees Working in Family and Non-Family Firms
Authors: Pimentel Duarte , Pedra André
Published: August 2023

This paper aims to explore differences in personality traits, focusing on the levels of primary psychopathy, between formal leaders of family and non-family companies as well as assessing differences in the job satisfaction levels of their employees. Moreover, we assess the relationship between the employees’ perception of their formal leader’s primary psychopathy levels and their job satisfaction levels in family firms. The empirical evidence is provided by a sample of 95 Portuguese employees, who responded to a questionnaire that included their perceptions of their formal leader’s primary psychopathy level and job satisfaction measures. All respondents work in small and medium-sized private companies with no management responsibilities and under formal hieratical supervision. The initial idea that family firms’ employees perceive lower levels of primary psychopathy in their formal leaders than non-family firms’ employees was confirmed. However, employees of family and non-family firms did not differ in their job satisfaction levels. The results also support the notion that perceived levels of primary psychopathy in formal leaders are negatively associated with the employees’ job satisfaction levels. These findings contribute to the research literature by addressing two aspects under-addressed in the comparison between family and non-family firms, while offering insights on the relationship between primary psychopathy in formal leaders and job satisfaction levels of employees working in family firms.
Aero-Engine Preliminary Design Optimization and Operability Studies Supported by a Compressor Mean-Line Design Module
Authors: Alexiou Alexios , Kolias Ioannis , Aretakis Nikolaos , Mathioudakis Konstantinos
Published: August 2023

An approach for preliminary aero-engine design, incorporating a mean-line code for the design of axial-flow, multi-stage compressors, is presented. The compressor mean-line code is developed and integrated within a framework for the preliminary design and assessment of aero-engine concepts. It is then combined with modules for compressor map generation, multi-point engine design, steady-state and transient engine off-design performance and aircraft mission analysis. Implementation examples are presented, demonstrating the determination of the optimal combination of compressor and engine design parameters for achieving minimum fuel burn over a specific aircraft mission, while obeying constraints that guarantee operability over the entire flight envelope. Constraints related to compressor stability during transient maneuvers between idle and static take-off conditions and engine temperature limits at maximum take-off are respected by the final design. The results demonstrate the potential for design trade-offs between engine performance at the aircraft mission level and compressor aerodynamic stability.
Sustainable Solutions for Arid Regions: Harnessing Aquaponics Water to Enhance Soil Quality in Egypt
Authors: Abd El-Azeim Mohieyeddin M. , Yousef Eman , Hussien Marwa , Hamza Ahmad , Menesi Ahmad , Youssef Naglaa , Omar Maha , Lemanowicz Joanna , Eldesoky Gaber E. , Abdelkarim Nesrin S. , Gaj Renata , Diatta Jean , Haddad Samir A.
Published: August 2023

Dual use of water for fish and crop production could be a promising approach to improve irrigation under arid conditions. A watercress pot study was carried out to assess the effects of irrigation by catfish and tilapia aquaculture water on the sandy soil properties as well as the growth parameters of watercress with various combinations of artificial NPK fertilizers at El-Minia Governorate of Egypt (28°18′16″ N latitude and 30°34′38″ E longitude). Catfish aquaculture water had the greatest phytoplankton abundance at 83,762 units (×104/L), while the minimum number of phytoplankton existed in tilapia aquaculture water, recorded at 14,873 units (×104/L). There were significant average changes that varied from 120 to 237 (×104 cfu/mL−1) in total bacterial counts in tilapia and catfish waters. Watercress growth quality parameters closely paralleled at all NPK application rates, indicating that the highest quality plants were produced in pots receiving 25% of the recommended levels and irrigated with catfish aquaculture water. Nitrate concentrations of watercress plants were determined under pollution levels established by the European Commission for leafy and tuber vegetables. In conclusion, the use of microbial and phytoplankton-rich aquaculture water to irrigate vegetables and as fertilizer can maintain a balanced soil ecosystem.
Design and Test of Single-Disc Opener for No-Till Planter Based on Support Cutting
Authors: Zhong Guangyuan , Li Hongwen , He Jin , Wang Qingjie , Lu Caiyun , Wang Chao , Tong Zhenwei , Cui Dandan , He Dong
Published: August 2023

To solve the problem of low straw-cutting efficiency of single-disc openers of no-till planters under conditions of high soil moisture content, a single-disc furrowing and straw-cutting device was designed based on the support-cutting principle. To improve the straw-cutting ability of the disc opener when it operates under high-moisture-content soil conditions and to make sure that the straw that is not cut by the disc coulter can be cut smoothly by the disc opener, the support shovel was designed, and the operation mechanism of the support shovel device was analyzed. The soil moisture content, the support shovel’s entry angle, the support shovel’s entry gap angle, and the support shovel’s tip margin were identified as the factors influencing the device design through the theoretical analysis of the furrowing and straw-cutting device. Through the discrete element method (DEM), a single-factor simulation test was first conducted to analyze how different soil moisture contents affected the device’s ability to cut straw, and the results showed that the number of broken bonds was lowest when the soil moisture content was 20 ± 1%, and the time taken for the straw to be wholly cut off was also the longest. Then, a quadratic orthogonal simulation test was conducted to construct a regression model and optimize the parameters at the soil moisture content of 20 ± 1%, and the results revealed that the significant order of each factor’s influence on the number of broken bonds is as follows: entry gap angle, entry angle, and shovel tip margin. In addition, the device’s overall operation quality was better when the entry angle was 49°, the entry gap angle was 0°, and the shovel tip margin was 10 mm. At this time, the number of broken bonds was predicted to be 506. Finally, the simulation validation test was run, and the number of broken bonds was obtained to be 478, with a relative error of 5.6% from the predicted value. According to the optimal parameters to complete the device trial production and field test, the results show that the average cut-off rate of the device is 71.7%, the stability coefficient of the furrowing depth is 90.87%, and the performance of the furrow opening is excellent, which meets the requirements of a no-tillage seeding operation. This study can provide a reference for the design and improvement of no-tillage seeding machines under conditions of high soil moisture content.
Puccinia Spore Concentrations in Relation to Weather Factors and Phenological Development of a Wheat Crop in Northwestern Spain
Authors: Sánchez Espinosa Kenia C. , Fernández-González María , Almaguer Michel , Guada Guillermo , Rodríguez-Rajo Francisco Javier
Published: August 2023

Rust is one of the main diseases affecting wheat crops in Spain, causing significant yield and quality losses. Research on its identification and quantification in the air is a worldwide priority due to the importance of this crop as a source of food and feed. The objective of this study is to determine the temporal variation of airborne spores of Puccinia and their relationship with meteorological variables and the phenological development of a wheat crop in Northwestern Spain during two growing seasons. The study was conducted in A Limia, Ourense, located in Northwestern Spain, during the wheat growing seasons of 2021 and 2022. The Lanzoni VPPS 2010 spore trap was used to collect airborne spores, which were identified using optical microscopy. The wheat growing season was less than 95 days during both years, and wheat rust spores were detected during all phenological stages of the crop. Concentrations were higher than 100 spores/m3 from the booting stage to senescence, mainly in 2021. Statistical analyses showed that temperature was the meteorological variable that most influenced Puccinia concentrations in the air in both years. The modification of a prediction model proposed by other authors for wheat rust, which takes into account mean temperature (10–25 °C), dew point temperature (<5 °C), and nighttime temperature (10–20 °C), allowed us to tentatively predict the increase in Puccinia concentrations in the year 2022 when these conditions occurred for four or five consecutive days. This research is the first in Spain to report the presence of rust-causing Puccinia spores in the air during all phenological stages of the wheat crop and provides useful information for designing management strategies, considering temperature values.
Influence of a Hydrocarbon Biodestructor on the Growth and Content of Phytohormones in Secale cereale L. Plants under Petroleum Pollution of the Soil
Authors: Sotnikova Yulia , Grigoriadi Anna , Fedyaev Vadim , Garipova Margarita , Galin Ilshat , Sharipova Guzal , Yamaleeva Anna , Chetverikov Sergey , Veselov Dmitriy , Kudoyarova Guzel , Farkhutdinov Rashit
Published: August 2023

The phytoremediation of soil contaminated with petroleum depends on the association of plants with rhizosphere bacteria capable of promoting plant growth and destroying petroleum hydrocarbonates. In the present work, we studied the effects of “Lenoil” biological product containing bacteria Pseudomonas turukhanskensis IB 1.1, capable of destroying petroleum hydrocarbons on Secale cereale L plants, which previously proved to be resistant to the weak oil pollution of gray forest soil and to the composition of microorganisms in their rhizosphere. The composition of microorganisms in the rhizosphere of rye roots was studied, morphometric parameters of shoots and roots of rye plants were estimated, and hormone concentration was immunoassayed under conditions of 4% petroleum pollution of the soil. Addition of petroleum to the soil increased the content of oligonitrophilic (by 24%) and hydrocarbon-oxidizing (by 33%) microorganisms; however, the content of cellulolytic (by 12.5 times) microorganisms in the rhizosphere decreased. The use of Lenoil led to a further increase in the number of cellulolytic (by 5.6 times) and hydrocarbon-oxidizing (by 3.8 times) microorganisms and a decrease in the number of oligonitrophilic (by 22.7%) microorganisms in the rhizosphere. Under petroleum pollution, the content of auxins (IAA), zeatin riboside, zeatin nucleotide, and zeatin decreased, while the content of abscisic acid (ABA) increased in the shoots of rye plants. Lenoil treatment led to an eight-fold increase in the IAA content in the roots and a decrease in the ABA content in the aerial part and in the roots. It was shown for the first time that the treatment of petroleum-contaminated soil with “Lenoil” increased root mass due to the development of lateral roots, concurrent with high root IAA content. Petroleum pollution increased the deposition of lignin and suberin in the roots, which strengthened the apoplastic barrier and, thus, reduced the infiltration of toxic components. The deposition of suberin and lignin decreased under ”Lenoil” treatment, indicating a decrease in the concentration of toxic petroleum components in the soil degraded by the bacteria. Thus, the biological preparation reduced the growth-inhibiting effect of petroleum on rye plants by increasing the content of growth-stimulating phytohormones (IAA and cytokinins) and reducing the content of ABA, justifying the importance of further study of relevant hormones for the improvement of phytoremediation.
Design and Experiment of Sweet Potato Ridging and Forming Machine
Authors: Chen Xinyu , Chen Mingdong , Liu Mengmeng , Li Yang , Yang Deqiu , Wu Haihua
Published: August 2023

To address the problem of poor ridging effect, a sweet potato ridging and shaping machine was designed and its overall structure and working principles were described. The design parameters of rotary tillage device, furrowing and shaping device and pressing and shaping device were determined. The motion model of soil particles on the furrowing and shaping device was analyzed, the force model of the furrowing and shaping device was established. A response surface Box–Behnken Design test was carried out to obtain the better working parameters of the sweet potato ridging and shaping machine as follows: the embedded depth is 196 mm, the forward speed is 0.82 m/s, and the soil moisture is 18%. At this time the stability coefficient of the ridge height was 99.84%. The comparative test showed that the operation performance and fuel consumption of the ridge shaping machine were better than 1GQL-2 sweet potato two rows rotary plowing and ridging machine, which met the agronomic requirements and created a good soil environment for sweet potato. The research can provide a design reference for the development and application of sweet potato transplanting machinery and ridging machinery in hilly areas.
Improved YOLOv8-Seg Network for Instance Segmentation of Healthy and Diseased Tomato Plants in the Growth Stage
Authors: Yue Xiang , Qi Kai , Na Xinyi , Zhang Yang , Liu Yanhua , Liu Cuihong
Published: August 2023

The spread of infections and rot are crucial factors in the decrease in tomato production. Accurately segmenting the affected tomatoes in real-time can prevent the spread of illnesses. However, environmental factors and surface features can affect tomato segmentation accuracy. This study suggests an improved YOLOv8s-Seg network to perform real-time and effective segmentation of tomato fruit, surface color, and surface features. The feature fusion capability of the algorithm was improved by replacing the C2f module with the RepBlock module (stacked by RepConv), adding SimConv convolution (using the ReLU function instead of the SiLU function as the activation function) before two upsampling in the feature fusion network, and replacing the remaining conventional convolution with SimConv. The F1 score was 88.7%, which was 1.0%, 2.8%, 0.8%, and 1.1% higher than that of the YOLOv8s-Seg algorithm, YOLOv5s-Seg algorithm, YOLOv7-Seg algorithm, and Mask RCNN algorithm, respectively. Meanwhile, the segment mean average precision (segment mAP@0.5) was 92.2%, which was 2.4%, 3.2%, 1.8%, and 0.7% higher than that of the YOLOv8s-Seg algorithm, YOLOv5s-Seg algorithm, YOLOv7-Seg algorithm, and Mask RCNN algorithm. The algorithm can perform real-time instance segmentation of tomatoes with an inference time of 3.5 ms. This approach provides technical support for tomato health monitoring and intelligent harvesting.
Analysis of Cross-Influence of Microclimate, Lighting, and Soil Parameters in the Vertical Farm
Authors: Kamenchuk Victoria , Rumiantsev Boris , Dzhatdoeva Sofya , Sadykhov Elchin , Kochkarov Azret
Published: August 2023

Urban vertical farming is an innovative solution to address the increasing demand for food in densely populated cities. With advanced technology and precise monitoring, closed urban vertical farms can optimize growing conditions for plants, resulting in higher yields and improved crop quality. However, to fully optimize closed urban vertical farming systems, research is needed to enhance crop yields and reduce the growing season. The present study is focused on the research of the mutual influence of microclimate parameters, such as temperature, humidity, and carbon dioxide concentration, as well as the spectral composition of light, humidity, and amount of peat in the substrate. The research was conducted within the cultivation of the “Innovator” potato variety at the experimental automated vertical farm of the “Fundamentals of Biotechnology” of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Based on the correlation and Fourier analysis of the dependences of soil moisture and carbon dioxide concentration on time, it is shown that after watering potatoes, there is a 56 h delayed decrease in the concentration of carbon dioxide in the cultivation room, which can be explained by a delayed increase in the intensity of the photosynthesis process. Moreover, a comparison of CO2 dependence on time with the lighting dynamics at the scale of one day indicates the presence of the intrinsic daily biological rhythm of the CO2 absorption rate that does not depend on the external lighting conditions. In addition, by analyzing the dependencies of microclimate parameters and the spectral composition of the lighting over time, it was found that switching on lighting influences the microclimate parameters, which can be explained by the heating of LEDs used for lighting. Moreover, the multiple regression analysis of microclimate parameters and soil moisture showed that an increase in peat content in the substrate leads to a transition from the decisive influence of air humidity on soil moisture to the dominant influence of air temperature. The obtained results reveal the complex mutual influence of the parameters determining the growing conditions within automated closed vertical farms. Consideration of this influence is necessary when optimizing the conditions of vegetation and the development of intelligent plant-growing systems.
Grassland Carbon Change in Northern China under Historical and Future Land Use and Land Cover Change
Authors: Li Zhenwang , Tang Quan , Wang Xu , Chen Baorui , Sun Chengming , Xin Xiaoping
Published: August 2023

Land use and land cover (LULC) change has greatly altered ecosystem carbon storage and exerted an enormous impact on terrestrial carbon cycling. Characterizing its impact on ecosystem carbon storage is critical to balance regional carbon budgets and make land use decisions. However, due to the availability of LULC data and the strong variability in LULC change, uncertainty remains high in quantifying the effect of LULC change on the historical and future carbon stock. Based on four historical LULC maps and one future LULC projection, this study combined the Land Use and Carbon Scenario Simulator (LUCAS) with a process-based CENTURY model to evaluate the historical and future LULC change and its impact on grassland carbon storage from 1991 to 2050 in northern China. Results showed that grassland experienced a drastic decrease of 16.10 × 103 km2 before 2005, while agriculture and barren land increased by 16.91 × 103 km2 and 3.73 × 103 km2, respectively. After that, grassland was projected to increase, agriculture kept steady, and barren land decreased. LULC change has resulted in enormous total ecosystem carbon loss, mainly in agro-pasture areas; the maximum 8.54% of carbon loss happened in 2000, which was primarily attributed to agriculture to grassland, forest to grassland, grassland to agriculture, and grassland to barren. Before 2000, the grassland net biome productivity was projected to be −15.54 Tg C/yr and −2.69 Tg C/yr with and without LULC change. After 2001, the LULC change showed a positive impact on the grassland carbon balance, and the region was projected to be a carbon sink. Ecological projects have made a significant contribution to grassland carbon storage. The paper provides a framework to account for the effects of LULC change on ecosystem carbon and highlights the importance of improving grassland management in balancing the grassland carbon budget, which is helpful to understand the regional carbon budget and better inform local land use strategies.
Biostimulant Application Alleviates the Negative Effects of Deficit Irrigation and Improves Growth Performance, Essential Oil Yield and Water-Use Efficiency of Mint Crop
Authors: Chaski Christina , Giannoulis Kyriakos D. , Alexopoulos Alexios A. , Petropoulos Spyridon A.
Published: August 2023

The scarcity of water is limiting crop production and is one of the most important stressors that severely affects crop yield, and it may also decrease the quality of the final products. Most of the medicinal and aromatic plants are considered resilient to water stress and constitute a sustainable choice for crop production in arid and semiarid conditions. In the present study, we examined the effect of scheduled deficit irrigation (e.g., I1: 40% of field capacity); I2: 70% of field capacity; and I3: 100% of field capacity) combined with biostimulant application (four different products that consisted of nitrogenous compounds and carboxylic acids (M1); nitrogenous compounds and seaweed extracts (M2); humic and fulvic acids and seaweed extracts (M3); and CaO, SiO2, calcium mobilization and translocation factor and microminerals (M4)) on crop performance and essential oil production of mint plants (Mentha arvensis L.). Our aim was to define an irrigation regime that increases water-use efficiency and the biostimulant products that alleviate water stress effects. Our results indicate that moderate deficit irrigation (I2 treatment) and biostimulants that contained seaweed extracts and nitrogenous compounds and humic and fulvic acids (M2 and M3 treatments, respectively) significantly improved yield parameters in terms of fresh and dry herb yield and essential oil production. Moreover, the same biostimulant treatments significantly increased water-use efficiency of mint crops based on the various yield parameters tested in this study. In conclusion, our results indicate that selection of proper biostimulatory products may allow to apply deficit irrigation regimes in mint cultivation without compromising the crop performance in terms of both biomass production and essential oil yield. Therefore, the combination of these agronomic tools could facilitate water saving strategies in arid and semiarid regions and contribute to the sustainable management of water resources.
Classification of Monofloral Honeys by Measuring a Low-Cost Electronic Nose Prototype Based on Resistive Metal Oxide Sensors
Authors: María Eduardo González , Luna Antonio Madueño , Celdrán Agustín Conesa , Muñoz Gemma Martínez , Oates Martin John , Ruiz-Canales Antonio
Published: August 2023

In this article a case study of characterisation of type of honey based on floral origin is presented. It is intended to discriminate Iberian honeys from local beekeepers located in the Community of Madrid (Spain), by means of a low-cost electronic nose prototype, composed of a matrix of nonspecific resistive sensors of MQ-type metal oxides. The measurements of the honeys made with an electronic nose prototype were contrasted with physicochemical analyzes and pollen content. The experiment was carried out in two trials. A first preliminary study in which six samples of honey from different sources were used (three Blueweed, one rapeseed, one lavender and one commercial honey) and in which eight repetitions were made for each of the six samples analyzed. Due to the small sample size, conclusive results were not obtained, although the sensors did show a clear response in those that presented a higher pollen content, above 57%, however, the honey samples that reflected pollen values lower than 50% they showed no perceptible reaction on the sensors. In the second study, in which the sample size was increased to a total of 16 samples (four lavender honeys, four oak honeys, four rosemary honeys, and four chestnut honeys), a total of 10 repetitions per sample were carried out with a total of repetitions out of 160. These last data were analyzed with the principal component technique (PCA), the results of which were inconclusive. However, when applying the data analysis through the use of Support Vector Machines (SVM), it is possible to obtain a model with 87.5% accuracy in the classification. In this case, the Lavender and Chestnut honeys were the ones that achieved a precision of 90% and 100% respectively.
Characterising Biosecurity Initiatives Globally to Support the Development of a Progressive Management Pathway for Terrestrial Animals: A Scoping Review
Authors: Militzer Nina , McLaws Melissa , Rozstalnyy Andriy , Li Yushan , Dhingra Madhur , Auplish Aashima , Mintiens Koen , Sabirovic Mirzet , von Dobschuetz Sophie , Heilmann Martin
Published: August 2023

While biosecurity is of increasing importance globally, there is still limited evidence of the factors or elements that support the progressive and sustainable scaling up of biosecurity along the value chains from the local to the global level. To gain insight into the current body of literature on biosecurity, a mixed-methods approach was used based on a scoping literature review and an online survey with subject matter experts. Six databases were searched for published literature, and textual information from titles and abstracts of all included records (n = 266) were analysed through inductive content analysis to build biosecurity-relevant categories and identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) of existing biosecurity systems or initiatives (such as projects or programs). Most records focused on initiatives in high-income countries, traditional livestock species (pigs, poultry, and large ruminants), and the production stage and had a disease-specific focus. No records described a comprehensive or global framework to progressively scale up biosecurity. Overall, the findings highlight the need for initiatives such as the FAO Progressive Management Pathway for Terrestrial Animal Biosecurity (FAO-PMP-TAB), which is a stepwise approach for strengthening biosecurity management along value chains to enhance the health, resilience, and sustainability of animal sectors. The findings highlight important elements and provide recommendations useful for developing approaches or a global framework to progressively improve biosecurity management.
Description and Validation of Flow-Through Chambers of Respirometry for Measuring Gas Exchange in Animal Trials
Authors: Lizana Rony Riveros , Camargos Rosiane de Souza , Silva Raully Lucas , Leme Bruno Balbino , Sakomura Nilva Kazue
Published: August 2023

Indirect calorimetry (IC) is a widely used method to study animal energy metabolism by measuring gas exchange. The accuracy of IC depends on detecting variations in signals reflecting the metabolic response, which can be challenging due to measurement noise and external factors. This study proposes a methodology to validate IC systems, including an easy-to-use spreadsheet for data computing, to verify accuracy and detect whole-system leaks. We conducted a recovery test using a simulation of CO2 dynamics in MS Excel and injecting a known CO2 concentration into four respirometry chambers. The thought flow rate of CO2 was observed and compared to the expected rate from the simulation. Data filtering and computing, including a detailed calculation of signals calibration, Bartholomew transformation, and noise reduction, was developed to obtain the gas exchange and heat production parameters using an open-circuit IC system. The results from the recovery test in our system show that the proposed methodology is accurate and precise. The proposed methodology and recovery test can be used to standardize the validation of IC systems together with adequate data computing, providing accurate measurements of animal energy metabolism in different environmental conditions and energy utilization from feeds.
Ceftobiprole Medocaril Is an Effective Post-Exposure Treatment in the Fischer 344 Rat Model of Pneumonic Tularemia
Authors: Hahn Mark M. , Triplett Cheryl A. , Anderson Michael S. , Smart Jennifer I. , Litherland Karine , Keech Stephen , von Siebenthal Franziska , Jones Mark , Phipps Andrew J. , Henning Lisa N.
Published: August 2023

Francisella tularensis subspecies tularensis is a category-A biothreat agent that can cause lethal tularemia. Ceftobiprole medocaril is being explored as a medical countermeasure for the treatment of pneumonic tularemia. The efficacy of ceftobiprole medocaril against inhalational tularemia was evaluated in the Fischer 344 rat model of infection. The dose was expected to be effective against F. tularensis isolates with ceftobiprole minimum inhibitory concentrations ≤0.5 µg/mL. Animals treated with ceftobiprole medocaril exhibited a 92% survival rate 31 days post-challenge, identical to the survival of levofloxacin-treated rats. By comparison, rats receiving placebo experienced 100% mortality. Terminally collected blood, liver, lung, and spleen samples confirmed disseminated F. tularensis infections in most animals that died prior to completing treatments (placebo animals and a rat treated with ceftobiprole medocaril), although levels of bacteria detected in the placebo samples were significantly elevated compared to the ceftobiprole-medocaril-treated group geometric mean. Furthermore, no evidence of infection was detected in any rat that completed ceftobiprole medocaril or levofloxacin treatment and survived to the end of the post-treatment observation period. Overall, survival rates, body weights, and bacterial burdens consistently demonstrated that treatment with ceftobiprole medocaril is efficacious against otherwise fatal cases of pneumonic tularemia in the rat model.
Physicochemical Characteristics of Antimicrobials and Practical Recommendations for Intravenous Administration: A Systematic Review
Authors: Borgonovo Fabio , Quici Massimiliano , Gidaro Antonio , Giustivi Davide , Cattaneo Dario , Gervasoni Cristina , Calloni Maria , Martini Elena , La Cava Leyla , Antinori Spinello , Cogliati Chiara , Gori Andrea , Foschi Antonella
Published: August 2023

Most antimicrobial drugs need an intravenous (IV) administration to achieve maximum efficacy against target pathogens. IV administration is related to complications, such as tissue infiltration and thrombo-phlebitis. This systematic review aims to provide practical recommendations about diluent, pH, osmolarity, dosage, infusion rate, vesicant properties, and phlebitis rate of the most commonly used antimicrobial drugs evaluated in randomized controlled studies (RCT) till 31 March 2023. The authors searched for available IV antimicrobial drugs in RCT in PUBMED EMBASE®, EBSCO® CINAHL®, and the Cochrane Controlled Clinical trials. Drugs’ chemical features were searched online, in drug data sheets, and in scientific papers, establishing that the drugs with a pH of <5 or >9, osmolarity >600 mOsm/L, high incidence of phlebitis reported in the literature, and vesicant drugs need the adoption of utmost caution during administration. We evaluated 931 papers; 232 studies were included. A total of 82 antimicrobials were identified. Regarding antibiotics, 37 reach the “caution” criterion, as well as seven antivirals, 10 antifungals, and three antiprotozoals. In this subgroup of antimicrobials, the correct vascular access device (VAD) selection is essential to avoid complications due to the administration through a peripheral vein. Knowing the physicochemical characteristics of antimicrobials is crucial to improve the patient’s safety significantly, thus avoiding administration errors and local side effects.
Antimicrobial Stewardship Programs in Latin America and the Caribbean: A Story of Perseverance, Challenges, and Goals
Authors: Restrepo-Arbeláez Natalia , Garcia-Betancur Juan Carlos , Pallares Christian Jose , Villegas María Virginia
Published: August 2023

Antimicrobial resistance is one of the major global health threats. Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) has been set as a priority within international action plans to combat this issue. The region of Latin America and the Caribbean are recognized for their high antimicrobial resistance rates; nevertheless, a low number of studies describing implemented interventions for this topic have been published. This review aims to provide an overview of the status of AMS in our region, focusing on the main progress achieved and describing the different published efforts made by countries towards the implementation of antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASP). Common areas of intervention included were (a) education approaches, (b) antimicrobial guideline implementation and monitoring, (c) diagnostic stewardship, (d) technological tools: electronic clinical decision support systems in AMS, (e) pharmacy-driven protocols and collaborative practice agreements, and (f) economic impact. The search demonstrated the varied interventions implemented in diverse healthcare settings; the results accentuate their influence on antimicrobial consumption, antimicrobial resistance, clinical outcomes, and direct economic impact. The integration of multiple strategies within each hospital was highlighted as an essential key to ASP success. Even though the literature found demonstrated clear progress, there is still a special need for strengthening leadership from the top down, defining goals based on needs, and gaining support through policy and financing in LAC.
Rationally Designed Pyrimidine Compounds: Promising Novel Antibiotics for the Treatment of Staphylococcus aureus-Associated Bovine Mastitis
Authors: Millette Guillaume , Lacasse Evelyne , Binette Renaud , Belley Véronique , Chaumont Louis-Philippe , Ster Céline , Beaudry Francis , Boyapelly Kumaraswamy , Boudreault Pierre-Luc , Malouin François
Published: August 2023

Staphylococcus aureus is one of the major pathogens causing bovine mastitis, and antibiotic treatment is most often inefficient due to its virulence and antibiotic-resistance attributes. The development of new antibiotics for veterinary use should account for the One Health concept, in which humans, animals, and environmental wellbeing are all interconnected. S. aureus can infect cattle and humans alike and antibiotic resistance can impact both if the same classes of antibiotics are used. New effective antibiotic classes against S. aureus are thus needed in dairy farms. We previously described PC1 as a novel antibiotic, which binds the S. aureus guanine riboswitch and interrupts transcription of essential GMP synthesis genes. However, chemical instability of PC1 hindered its development, evaluation, and commercialization. Novel PC1 analogs with improved stability have now been rationally designed and synthesized, and their in vitro and in vivo activities have been evaluated. One of these novel compounds, PC206, remains stable in solution and demonstrates specific narrow-spectrum activity against S. aureus. It is active against biofilm-embedded S. aureus, its cytotoxicity profile is adequate, and in vivo tests in mice and cows show that it is effective and well tolerated. PC206 and structural analogs represent a promising new antibiotic class to treat S. aureus-induced bovine mastitis.
Integrated Multi-Omics Analysis for Inferring Molecular Players in Inclusion Body Myositis
Authors: Cantó-Santos Judith , Valls-Roca Laura , Tobías Ester , Oliva Clara , García-García Francesc Josep , Guitart-Mampel Mariona , Andújar-Sánchez Félix , Esteve-Codina Anna , Martín-Mur Beatriz , Padrosa Joan , Aránega Raquel , Moreno-Lozano Pedro J. , Milisenda José César , Artuch Rafael , Grau-Junyent Josep M. , Garrabou Glòria
Published: August 2023

Inclusion body myositis (IBM) is an acquired inflammatory myopathy affecting proximal and distal muscles that leads to weakness in patients over 50. It is diagnosed based on clinical and histological findings in muscle related to inflammation, degeneration, and mitochondria. In relation to IBM, a shortage of validated disease models and a lack of biomarkers and effective treatments constitute an unmet medical need. To overcome these hurdles, we performed an omics analysis of multiple samples from IBM patients (saliva, fibroblasts, urine, plasma, and muscle) to gain insight into the pathophysiology of IBM. Degeneration was evident due to the presence of amyloid β peptide 1–42 (Aβ1–42) in the saliva of the analyzed IBM patients. The presence of metabolic disarrangements in IBM was indicated by an imbalanced organic acid profile in fibroblasts and urine. Specifically, abnormal levels of L-pyroglutamic and orotic acid were supported by the abnormal expression of related metabolites in plasma and urine (glutathione and pyrimidines) and the aberrant expression of upstream gene regulators (L2HGDH, IDH2, OPLAH, and ASL) in muscle. Combined levels of L-pyroglutamic and orotic acid displayed an outstanding biomarker signature in urine with 100% sensitivity and specificity. The confirmation of systemic metabolic disarrangements in IBM and the identification of novel biomarkers reported herein unveil novel insights that require validation in larger cohorts.
Comprehensive Comparison of Effects of Antioxidant (Astaxanthin) Supplementation from Different Sources in Haliotis discus hannai Diet
Authors: Zou Weiguang , Hong Jiawei , Yu Wenchao , Ma Yaobin , Gan Jiacheng , Liu Yanbo , Luo Xuan , You Weiwei , Ke Caihuan
Published: August 2023

Dietary antioxidant supplementation, especially astaxanthin, has shown great results on reproductive aspects, egg quality, growth, survival, immunity, stress tolerance, and disease resistance in aquatic animals. However, the effects of dietary astaxanthin supplementation from different sources are still unknown. A comprehensive comparison of survival, growth, immune response, antioxidant activity, thermal resistance, disease resistance, and intestinal microbial structure was conducted in dietary antioxidant supplementation from the sources of Gracilaria lemaneiformis (GL), industrial synthetic astaxanthin (80 mg/kg astaxanthin actual weight, named as group ‘SA80’), Phaffia rhodozyma (80 mg/kg astaxanthin actual weight, named as group ‘PR80’) and Haematococcus pluvialis (120 mg/kg astaxanthin actual weight, named as group ‘HP120’) at their optimal supplementation amounts. Furthermore, the SA80, PR80, and HP120 groups performed better in all aspects, including survival, growth, immune response, antioxidant activity, thermal resistance, and disease resistance, compared with the GL group. The PR80 and HP120 group also had a better growth performance than the SA80 group. In terms of heat stress and bacterial challenge, abalone in the PR80 group showed the strongest resistance. Overall, 80 mg/kg astaxanthin supplementation from Phaffia rhodozyma was recommended to obtain a more effective and comprehensive outcome. This study contributes to the discovery of the optimum dietary astaxanthin supplementation source for abalone, which is helpful to improve the production efficiency and economic benefits of abalone. Future research can further explore the action mechanism and the method of application of astaxanthin to better exploit its antioxidant role.