bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Importance of Downstream Processing of Natural Astaxanthin for Pharmaceutical Application
Authors: Rodríguez-Sifuentes Lucio , Marszalek Jolanta Elzbieta , Hernández-Carbajal Gerardo , Chuck-Hernández Cristina
Published: January 2021

Astaxanthin (ASX) is a xanthophyll pigment considered as a nutraceutical with high antioxidant activity. Several clinical trials have shown the multiple health benefits of this molecule; therefore, it has various pharmaceutical industry applications. Commercial astaxanthin can be produced by chemical synthesis or through biosynthesis within different microorganisms. The molecule produced by the microorganisms is highly preferred due to its zero toxicity and superior therapeutic properties. However, the biotechnological production of the xanthophyll is not competitive against the chemical synthesis, since the downstream process may represent 70–80% of the process production cost. These operations denote then an opportunity to optimize the process and make this alternative more competitive. Since ASX is produced intracellularly by the microorganisms, high investment and high operational costs, like centrifugation and bead milling or high-pressure homogenization, are mainly used. In cell recovery, flocculation and flotation may represent low energy demanding techniques, whereas, after cell disruption, an efficient extraction technique is necessary to extract the highest percentage of ASX produced by the cell. Solvent extraction is the traditional method, but large-scale ASX production has adopted supercritical CO2 (SC-CO2), an efficient and environmentally friendly technology. On the other hand, assisted technologies are extensively reported since the cell disruption, and ASX extraction can be carried out in a single step. Because a high-purity product is required in pharmaceuticals and nutraceutical applications, the use of chromatography is necessary for the downstream process. Traditionally liquid-solid chromatography techniques are applied; however, the recent emergence of liquid-liquid chromatography like high-speed countercurrent chromatography (HSCCC) coupled with liquid-solid chromatography allows high productivity and purity up to 99% of ASX. Additionally, the use of SC-CO2, coupled with two-dimensional chromatography, is very promising. Finally, the purified ASX needs to be formulated to ensure its stability and bioavailability; thus, encapsulation is widely employed. In this review, we focus on the processes of cell recovery, cell disruption, drying, extraction, purification, and formulation of ASX mainly produced in Haematococcus pluvialis, Phaffia rhodozyma, and Paracoccus carotinifaciens. We discuss the current technologies that are being developed to make downstream operations more efficient and competitive in the biotechnological production process of this carotenoid.
Investigation on the Sources and Impact of Trace Elements in the Annual Snowpack and the Firn in the Hansbreen (Southwest Spitsbergen)
Authors: Spolaor Andrea , Moroni Beatrice , Luks Bartłomiej , Nawrot Adam , Roman Marco , Larose Catherine , Stachnik Łukasz , Bruschi Federica , Kozioł Krystyna , Pawlak Filip , Turetta Clara , Barbaro Elena , Gallet Jean-Charles , Cappelletti David
Published: January 2021

We present a thorough evaluation of the water soluble fraction of the trace element composition (Ca, Sr, Mg, Na, K, Li, B, Rb, U, Ni, Co, As, Cs, Cd, Mo, Se, Eu, Ba, V, Ge, Ga, Cr, Cr, P, Ti, Mn, Zr, Ce, Zn, Fe, Gd, Y, Pb, Bi, Yb, Al, Nb, Er, Nd, Dy, Sm, Ho, Th, La, Lu, Tm, Pr, Tb, Fe, In, Tl) and their fluxes in the annual snowpack and the firn of the Hansbreen (a tidewater glacier terminating in the Hornsund fjord, southwest Spitsbergen). The trace element samples were obtained from a 3 m deep snow pit dug at the plateau of the glacier (450 m a.s.l.), and from a 2 m deep firn core collected from the bottom of the snow pit. The comparison of elemental fluxes and enrichment factors allowed us to constrain specific summer and wintertime deposition patterns of water soluble trace elements in the southern part of the Svalbard archipelago. Our results suggest that the chemical composition of the Hansbreen (and likely other glaciers where the summit is close to the equilibrium line) is mainly affected by summertime deposition of trace elements from local sources and some volatile elements, which may be transported into the Arctic when polar vortex is weak. The melting of the annual snowpack seems to have a minor influence on the overall chemical signature of the glacier ice.
Transverse Aeolian Ridge Growth Mechanisms and Pattern Evolution in Scandia Cavi, Mars
Authors: Fenton Lori K. , Silvestro Simone , Kocurek Gary
Published: January 2021

In Scandia Cavi on Mars, barchans migrating over a field of transverse aeolian ridges (TARs) leave behind distinctive trails (“wakes”) comprising both TARs undergoing exhumation and coarse-grained ripples being shed from the barchans. With distance upwind from the barchans, the combined pattern of these bedforms coarsens and defect density decreases, thus appearing to mature with exposure time. We present results of morphological analyses of the wake bedform crestlines using HiRISE images, seeking to determine how the wake pattern reflects TAR growth and pattern development. TARs interact with each other, exhibiting defect repulsions and possible lobe extensions, indicating that these bedforms have migrated in the past, despite the lack of identifiable change in overlapping images spanning 9.5 years. Mapping one wake in detail, we found that the TAR pattern is not affected by superposing ripples. However, the ripples undergo many interactions, first with one another, and later (with distance upwind) with the underlying TARs. Near the dune, many ripples laterally link, growing in length, and they preferentially form along TAR crests, resulting in small bedform repulsions and longer superposing ripples. Most of these ripples will be consumed by the TARs, an as-yet unreported growth dynamic for TARs that is consistent with the work of others, who have found a continuum between TARs and the meter-scale ripples that form on dunes. Constructing a DTM, orthorectifying HiRISE images, and measuring dune migration rates places the timescale of ripple absorption by TARs in a wake at several thousand years, with the first ∼1,000 years dominated by lateral linking of ripples. Assuming that TAR growth is accomplished entirely through dune burial and subsequent ripple consumption, we estimate a lower limit age of the TARs, and by extension, the dune field, to be ∼270 kyr.
Effect of Tai Chi on Quality of Life, Body Mass Index, and Waist-Hip Ratio in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Qin Jiawei , Chen Yannan , Guo Shuai , You Yue , Xu Ying , Wu Jingsong , Liu Zhizhen , Huang Jia , Chen Lidian , Tao Jing
Published: January 2021

Background

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a worldwide public health concern with high morbidity and various progressive diabetes complications that result in serious economic expenditure and social burden. This systematic review aims to evaluate the effect of Tai Chi on improving quality of life (QoL), body mass index (BMI) and waist-hip ratio (WHR) in patients with T2DM.

Method

A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed following PRISMA recommendation. Four English databases and three Chinese databases were searched. The PEDro scale was used to assess the methodological quality of including studies. Study inclusion criteria: randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-experimental studies were included, patients with T2DM that adopted Tai Chi as intervention and QoL, BMI and/or WHR as outcome measurements.

Results

Eighteen trials were included. The aggregated results of seven trials showed that Tai Chi statistically significantly improved QoL measured by the SF-36 on every domains (physical function: MD = 7.73, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.76 to 13.71, p = 0.01; role-physical function: MD = 9.76, 95% CI = 6.05 to 13.47, p < 0.001; body pain: MD = 8.49, 95% CI = 1.18 to 15.8, p = 0.02; general health: MD = 9.80, 95% CI = 5.77 to 13.82, p < 0.001; vitality: MD = 6.70, 95% CI = 0.45 to 12.94, p = 0.04; social function: MD = 9.1, 95% CI = 4.75 to 13.45, p < 0.001; role-emotional function: MD = 7.88, 95% CI = 4.03 to 11.72, p < 0.001; mental health: MD = 5.62, 95% CI = 1.57 to 9.67, p = 0.006) and BMI (MD = −1.53, 95% CI = −2.71 to −0.36, p < 0.001) compared with control group (wait list; no intervention; usual care; sham exercise).

Conclusion

Tai Chi could improve QoL and decrease BMI for patients with T2DM, more studies are needed to be conducted in accordance with suggestions mentioned in this review.
What Is the Sweetest UPR Flavor for the β-cell? That Is the Question
Authors: Lenghel Alina , Gheorghita Alina Maria , Vacaru Andrei Mircea , Vacaru Ana-Maria
Published: January 2021

Unfolded protein response (UPR) is a process conserved from yeasts to mammals and, based on the generally accepted dogma, helps the secretory performance of a cell, by improving its capacity to cope with a burden in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). The ER of β-cells, “professional secretory cells”, has to manage tremendous amounts of insulin, which elicits a strong pressure on the ER intrinsic folding capacity. Thus, the constant demand for insulin production results in misfolded proinsulin, triggering a physiological upregulation of UPR to restore homeostasis. Most diabetic disorders are characterized by the loss of functional β-cells, and the pathological side of UPR plays an instrumental role. The transition from a homeostatic to a pathological UPR that ultimately leads to insulin-producing β-cell decay entails complex cellular processes and molecular mechanisms which remain poorly described so far. Here, we summarize important processes that are coupled with or driven by UPR in β-cells, such as proliferation, inflammation and dedifferentiation. We conclude that the UPR comes in different “flavors” and each of them is correlated with a specific outcome for the cell, for survival, differentiation, proliferation as well as cell death. All these greatly depend on the way UPR is triggered, however what exactly is the switch that favors the activation of one UPR as opposed to others is largely unknown. Substantial work needs to be done to progress the knowledge in this important emerging field as this will help in the development of novel and more efficient therapies for diabetes.
Factors Associated with Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) Severity in Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Undergoing IVF/ICSI
Authors: Sun Bo , Ma Yujia , Li Lu , Hu Linli , Wang Fang , Zhang Yile , Dai Shanjun , Sun Yingpu
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Age, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), low body mass index (BMI), high antral follicle count (AFC), increased anti-Muller hormone (AMH) levels, and elevated serum estradiol (E2) concentrations are risk factors for ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). However, data on the relationship between risk factors and OHSS severity in patients with PCOS are rare.

Objective

This retrospective study examined the risk factors for OHSS and their effect on OHSS severity in patients with PCOS undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF)/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).

Method

The records of 2,699 women were reviewed and included in this study. These women were diagnosed with PCOS during their first IVF/ICSI cycle between January 2010 and December 2017. We analyzed the association between each of the interrogated risk factors (including female age, BMI, AFC, basal serum E2, and the number of oocytes retrieved) and OHSS. The effects of each risk factor on OHSS severity were further explored. Logistic regression was performed as part of the above analysis.

Results

Of the 2,699 women with PCOS who underwent assisted reproductive technology (ART), 75.2% had a normal response to controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH), while 24.8% developed OHSS. All OHSS patients were younger and had lower BMIs and basal serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and E2 levels but higher AFCs than those in the normal group. AFC demonstrated a strong correlation with OHSS, with a cutoff value of 24 in patients with PCOS. A total of 19.5% of the patients had mild OHSS, while 80.5% had moderate OHSS. Compared with those in the moderate OHSS group, those in the mild OHSS group were older and had higher basal serum FSH levels and lower serum E2 and T levels. However, BMI and AFC were not different between the mild and moderate OHSS groups. Basal serum E2 showed a strong correlation with OHSS severity, with a cutoff value of 37.94 pg/ml.

Conclusions

AFC is a strong marker of OHSS, and basal serum E2 is the best predictor of OHSS severity in women with PCOS undergoing IVF treatment.
Investigating Variable Speed Wind Turbine Transient Performance Considering Different Inverter Schemes and SDBR
Authors: Okedu Kenneth E. , Barghash Hind F. A.
Published: January 2021

In wind energy applications, voltage source converters are employed to achieve energy conservation. Recently, multilevel converters have been showing promising advantages compared to the traditional 2-level converter scheme, due to the fact that they can overcome certain limitations during transient conditions. This paper investigates the transient performance of variable DFIG-based speed wind turbines taking into account different scheme configurations of the power converter system. The schemes investigated are a 2-level six step IGBT inverter, a parallel interleaved 2-level six step IGBT inverter, and a 3-level IGBT inverter. All schemes were compared during severe three-phase to ground fault at the terminal of the DFIG wind turbine using the conventional Phase Lock Loop (PLL) and a DC-chopper protection. A coordinated approach of improving the performance of all the converter schemes with series dynamic braking resistor (SDBR) was analyzed. Investigation of the best location for the SDBR in the DFIG architecture considering the best switching signal was also carried out. Furthermore, a new control strategy of PLL for the DFIG system was proposed in conjunction with the SDBR scheme for the converter systems. Simulations were carried out in Power System Computer Aided Design and Electromagnetic Transient Including DC (PSCAD/EMTDC). The results show that the proposed PLL and SDBR hybrid scheme in the various inverter topologies considered in the study can enhance the performance of the wind generator variables during severe three-phase to ground fault. This is because the proposed hybrid scheme could help to boost the capability of the current and recovery of the wind generator after post-fault scenarios. Also, the voltage source converter leg switched output voltage would be enhanced to maximum change in common mode voltage by the inverter schemes’ modulation of the space vector using the proposed strategy.
SP-A and SP-D: Dual Functioning Immune Molecules With Antiviral and Immunomodulatory Properties
Authors: Watson Alastair , Madsen Jens , Clark Howard William
Published: January 2021

Surfactant proteins A (SP-A) and D (SP-D) are soluble innate immune molecules which maintain lung homeostasis through their dual roles as anti-infectious and immunomodulatory agents. SP-A and SP-D bind numerous viruses including influenza A virus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), enhancing their clearance from mucosal points of entry and modulating the inflammatory response. They also have diverse roles in mediating innate and adaptive cell functions and in clearing apoptotic cells, allergens and other noxious particles. Here, we review how the properties of these first line defense molecules modulate inflammatory responses, as well as host-mediated immunopathology in response to viral infections. Since SP-A and SP-D are known to offer protection from viral and other infections, if their levels are decreased in some disease states as they are in severe asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), this may confer an increased risk of viral infection and exacerbations of disease. Recombinant molecules of SP-A and SP-D could be useful in both blocking respiratory viral infection while also modulating the immune system to prevent excessive inflammatory responses seen in, for example, RSV or coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Recombinant SP-A and SP-D could have therapeutic potential in neutralizing both current and future strains of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus as well as modulating the inflammation-mediated pathology associated with COVID-19. A recombinant fragment of human (rfh)SP-D has recently been shown to neutralize SARS-CoV-2. Further work investigating the potential therapeutic role of SP-A and SP-D in COVID-19 and other infectious and inflammatory diseases is indicated.
Gonadal Cycle-Dependent Expression of Genes Encoding Peptide-, Growth Factor-, and Orphan G-Protein-Coupled Receptors in Gonadotropin- Releasing Hormone Neurons of Mice
Authors: Vastagh Csaba , Csillag Veronika , Solymosi Norbert , Farkas Imre , Liposits Zsolt
Published: January 2021

Rising serum estradiol triggers the surge release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) at late proestrus leading to ovulation. We hypothesized that proestrus evokes alterations in peptidergic signaling onto GnRH neurons inducing a differential expression of neuropeptide-, growth factor-, and orphan G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) genes. Thus, we analyzed the transcriptome of GnRH neurons collected from intact, proestrous and metestrous GnRH-green fluorescent protein (GnRH-GFP) transgenic mice using Affymetrix microarray technique. Proestrus resulted in a differential expression of genes coding for peptide/neuropeptide receptors including Adipor1, Prokr1, Ednrb, Rtn4r, Nmbr, Acvr2b, Sctr, Npr3, Nmur1, Mc3r, Cckbr, and Amhr2. In this gene cluster, Adipor1 mRNA expression was upregulated and the others were downregulated. Expression of growth factor receptors and their related proteins was also altered showing upregulation of Fgfr1, Igf1r, Grb2, Grb10, and Ngfrap1 and downregulation of Egfr and Tgfbr2 genes. Gpr107, an orphan GPCR, was upregulated during proestrus, while others were significantly downregulated (Gpr1, Gpr87, Gpr18, Gpr62, Gpr125, Gpr183, Gpr4, and Gpr88). Further affected receptors included vomeronasal receptors (Vmn1r172, Vmn2r-ps54, and Vmn1r148) and platelet-activating factor receptor (Ptafr), all with marked downregulation. Patch-clamp recordings from mouse GnRH-GFP neurons carried out at metestrus confirmed that the differentially expressed IGF-1, secretin, and GPR107 receptors were operational, as their activation by specific ligands evoked an increase in the frequency of miniature postsynaptic currents (mPSCs). These findings show the contribution of certain novel peptides, growth factors, and ligands of orphan GPCRs to regulation of GnRH neurons and their preparation for the surge release.
In Vivo Pulse Wave Measurement Through a Multimode Fiber Diffuse Speckle Analysis System
Authors: Teng Zhongshuai , Gao Feng , Xia Hua , Chen Wenliang , Li Chenxi
Published: January 2021

Continuous monitoring of in vivo pulsatile blood flow and pulse wave velocity (PWV) is important for clinical applications. These parameters are correlated with physiological parameters, such as blood pressure and elasticity of blood vessels. A multimode fiber diffuse speckle contrast analysis (MMF-DSCA) system was developed for fast measurement of in vivo pulsatile blood flow and pulse wave velocity. With MMF and CCD sensor, the diffuse speckle could be captured and processed with higher temporal resolution of 3 ms. We also induced for the first time an MMF-DSCA for evaluation of PWV, which allows estimation of the blood pressure continuously. To validate its performance, both phantom and in vivo experiments were conducted. The results demonstrate that MMF-DSCA could achieve fast pulsatile blood flow measurement with detailed information of the pulse wave profile and velocity. Taking the advantages of being simple and cost-effective, the flexible system can be easily adapted for continuous monitoring of vital biosigns, such as heart rate, pulse wave, and blood pressure.
Good News or Bad News? How Message Framing Influences Consumers’ Willingness to Buy Green Products
Authors: Tong Zelin , Liu Diyi , Ma Fang , Xu Xiaobing
Published: January 2021

Despite the growing social interest in green products, companies often find it difficult to find effective strategies to induce consumers to purchase green products or engage in other environmentally friendly behaviors. To address this situation, we examined the favorable or unfavorable effects of positive and negative message frames on consumers’ willingness to consume green products in different psychological distance contexts. Through two Studies, we found that the positive information framework played a more pronounced role in context when consumers were in closer spatial distances. More importantly, we found that the emotional factors of fear and hope were intrinsic causes of this phenomenon. Correspondingly, the negative information framework played a better facilitating role in context with farther spatial distance, while shame and pride were the emotions responsible for this effect. Finally, we discuss the theoretical and managerial implications of our work, as well as its limitations and future research directions.
Perceived Employability of Highly Skilled Migrant Women in STEM: Insights from Labor Market Intermediaries’ Professionals
Authors: Ricci Aurora , Crivellaro Francesca , Bolzani Daniela
Published: January 2021

While global economies are in a tremendous need for talented workers that could fill vacancies in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields, available evidence shows that highly skilled migrants with a background in these fields are not protected from brain waste and deskilling. In this paper, we add to the previous literature on the employability of highly skilled migrant women from the specific—and under-investigated—perspective of labor market intermediaries. We specifically investigate what the barriers and resources are for employability of highly skilled migrant women in STEM, as perceived by labor market intermediaries’ professionals; and what the training needs are that labor market intermediaries’ professionals perceive to effectively work with this target group. We use unique explorative survey data collected in 2018 in five countries (Greece, Hungary, Italy, Sweden, United Kingdom) from professionals working in diverse labor market intermediary organizations. We find that these professionals perceive the employability of migrant women in STEM as rather low, and strongly determined by migrant women’s psychological capital. Professionals in Southern Europe perceive structural barriers as more important than those in other countries. Professionals display training needs related to ad-hoc mentoring and networking competences for this specific target group. We discuss theoretical and practical implications.
Electric Propulsion Methods for Small Satellites: A Review
Authors: O’Reilly Dillon , Herdrich Georg , Kavanagh Darren F.
Published: January 2021

Over 2500 active satellites are in orbit as of October 2020, with an increase of ~1000 smallsats in the past two years. Since 2012, over 1700 smallsats have been launched into orbit. It is projected that by 2025, there will be 1000 smallsats launched per year. Currently, these satellites do not have sufficient delta v capabilities for missions beyond Earth orbit. They are confined to their pre-selected orbit and in most cases, they cannot avoid collisions. Propulsion systems on smallsats provide orbital manoeuvring, station keeping, collision avoidance and safer de-orbit strategies. In return, this enables longer duration, higher functionality missions beyond Earth orbit. This article has reviewed electrostatic, electrothermal and electromagnetic propulsion methods based on state of the art research and the current knowledge base. Performance metrics by which these space propulsion systems can be evaluated are presented. The article outlines some of the existing limitations and shortcomings of current electric propulsion thruster systems and technologies. Moreover, the discussion contributes to the discourse by identifying potential research avenues to improve and advance electric propulsion systems for smallsats. The article has placed emphasis on space propulsion systems that are electric and enable interplanetary missions, while alternative approaches to propulsion have also received attention in the text, including light sails and nuclear electric propulsion amongst others.
Acknowledgment to Reviewers of Aerospace in 2020
Authors:   Aerospace Editorial Office
Published: January 2021

Peer review is the driving force of journal development, and reviewers are gatekeepers who ensure that Aerospace maintains its standards for the high quality of its published papers [...]
Comparison of Drivers of Soil Microbial Communities Developed in Karst Ecosystems with Shallow and Deep Soil Depths
Authors: Guan Huiling , Fan Jiangwen , Zhang Haiyan , Harris Warwick
Published: January 2021

Soil erosion is prevalent in karst areas, but few studies have compared the differences in the drivers for soil microbial communities among karst ecosystems with different soil depths, and most studies have focused on the local scale. To fill this research gap, we investigated the upper 20 cm soil layers of 10 shallow–soil depth (shallow–SDC, total soil depth less than 100 cm) and 11 deep–soil depth communities (deep–SDC, total soil depth more than 100 cm), covering a broad range of vegetation types, soils, and climates. The microbial community characteristics of both the shallow–SDC and deep–SDC soils were tested by phospholipid fatty acid (PLFAs) analysis, and the key drivers of the microbial communities were illustrated by forward selection and variance partitioning analysis. Our findings demonstrated that more abundant soil nutrients supported higher fungal PLFA in shallow–SDC than in deep–SDC (p < 0.05). Furthermore, stronger correlation between the microbial community and the plant–soil system was found in shallow–SDC: the pure plant effect explained the 43.2% of variance in microbial biomass and 57.8% of the variance in the ratio of Gram–positive bacteria to Gram–negative bacteria (G+/G−), and the ratio of fungi to total bacteria (F/B); the pure soil effect accounted for 68.6% variance in the microbial diversity. The ratio of microbial PLFA cyclopropyl to precursors (Cy/Pr) and the ratio of saturated PLFA to monounsaturated PLFA (S/M) as indicators of microbial stress were controlled by pH, but high pH was not conducive to microorganisms in this area. Meanwhile, Cy/Pr in all communities was >0.1, indicating that microorganisms were under environmental stress. Therefore, the further ecological restoration of degraded karst communities is needed to improve their microbial communities.
Machine Learning-Based Microclimate Model for Indoor Air Temperature and Relative Humidity Prediction in a Swine Building
Authors: Arulmozhi Elanchezhian , Basak Jayanta Kumar , Sihalath Thavisack , Park Jaesung , Kim Hyeon Tae , Moon Byeong Eun
Published: January 2021

Indoor air temperature (IAT) and indoor relative humidity (IRH) are the prominent microclimatic variables; still, potential contributors that influence the homeostasis of livestock animals reared in closed barns. Further, predicting IAT and IRH encourages farmers to think ahead actively and to prepare the optimum solutions. Therefore, the primary objective of the current literature is to build and investigate extensive performance analysis between popular ML models in practice used for IAT and IRH predictions. Meanwhile, multiple linear regression (MLR), multilayered perceptron (MLP), random forest regression (RFR), decision tree regression (DTR), and support vector regression (SVR) models were utilized for the prediction. This study used accessible factors such as external environmental data to simulate the models. In addition, three different input datasets named S1, S2, and S3 were used to assess the models. From the results, RFR models performed better results in both IAT (R2 = 0.9913; RMSE = 0.476; MAE = 0.3535) and IRH (R2 = 0.9594; RMSE = 2.429; MAE = 1.47) prediction among other models particularly with S3 input datasets. In addition, it has been proven that selecting the right features from the given input data builds supportive conditions under which the expected results are available. Overall, the current study demonstrates a better model among other models to predict IAT and IRH of a naturally ventilated swine building containing animals with fewer input attributes.
Equine Transport-Related Problem Behaviors and Injuries: A Survey of Italian Horse Industry Members
Authors: Dai Francesca , Zappaterra Martina , Minero Michela , Bocchini Francesca , Riley Christopher B. , Padalino Barbara
Published: January 2021

An online survey was conducted to determine associations between equine transport management and transport-related injuries and problem behaviors in Italy. The survey was composed of four sections: respondents’ demographic information and background, transport management practices, journey details and vehicle design, and transport injuries experienced by the horse in the previous two-year period. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression with a binary outcome variable was performed to explore associations between variables (respondents’ and journeys’ details and transport practices) and equine transport-related problem behaviors (TRPBs) and injuries. TRPBs were also considered an explanatory variable for injuries. The survey generated 201 responses; only 148 were complete and analyzed. TRPBs were reported by 14.45% of the respondents and the odds of TRPBs was linked to the respondent gender (p = 0.034), the use of tranquilizers prior to transport (p = 0.002), the use of a whip for loading (p = 0.049), the lack of protection equipment (p = 0.050), and shavings (p = 0.025) on the vehicle floor. Horse injuries (11.49%) were reported by more respondents who did not check the brakes of their transport vehicle before traveling (p = 0.043), had vehicles with padding on the chest bar (p = 0.038), and for horses reported to display TRPBs (p = 0.001). Finally, 10 respondents reported they were injured during horse transport (10/140; 7.14%), 50% simultaneously with their horses. The study findings should be interpreted with caution due to small sample size bias and participants’ recall bias. Nevertheless, the results are in concordance with the literature, confirming that horse transport is a risk for the horse’s and handler’s health and well-being. Further studies are needed to identify best management practices to educate equine industry members on how to minimize transport-related problems.
Effects of Leaving Amputated Ovaries Intra-Abdominally during Elective Bilateral Standing Laparoscopic Ovariectomy in Equids
Authors: Devick Ian F. , Hendrickson Dean A.
Published: January 2021

There is risk of dropping an amputated ovary within the abdomen during standing laparoscopic ovariectomies in mares. If the ovary can no longer be directly visualized with the laparoscope, the procedure is then converted to a flank laparotomy for manual retrieval of the ovary which negates the minimally invasive nature of the laparoscopic procedure. The objective was to identify if ovaries left in the abdomen after amputation would atrophy or if they re-vascularize. Standing bilateral ovariectomies were performed in mature mares, but after transection of the ovarian pedicle, the ovaries were intentionally dropped and left within the abdomen. Post-operative endocrine values were at basal levels and an improvement in all mare’s behavior and general herd dynamics was observed. While this study does not encourage to leave ovaries in the abdomen after amputation, we report no complication related to their voluntary release into the abdomen.
“More Attention than Usual”: A Thematic Analysis of Dog Ownership Experiences in the UK during the First COVID-19 Lockdown
Authors: Holland Katrina E. , Owczarczak-Garstecka Sara C. , Anderson Katharine L. , Casey Rachel A. , Christley Robert M. , Harris Lauren , McMillan Kirsten M. , Mead Rebecca , Murray Jane K. , Samet Lauren , Upjohn Melissa M.
Published: January 2021

On 23 March 2020, the UK Government imposed a nationwide lockdown as part of efforts to mitigate the impact of COVID-19. This study aimed to explore how the experience of dog ownership in the UK was impacted during this lockdown. Data for this research came from open-ended survey questions and an electronic diary completed by members of the general public and participants involved in “Generation Pup”, an ongoing longitudinal cohort study of dogs. A total of 10,510 free-text entries were analysed. Three major themes emerged: spending time at home with dog(s), walking practices, and behaviour and training. Owners valued having more time than usual with their dog(s) but also recognised that spending extra time with their dog(s) may negatively impact on the dog’s future ability to cope when left alone. However, very few owners provided alone time for their dog(s) during the lockdown. The opportunity to walk their dog(s) as part of their permitted daily exercise was regarded positively, but walks under the lockdown guidelines were not always felt to be adequate with respect to providing sufficient exercise and opportunities for interaction with other dogs. Owners reported observing new undesirable behaviours in their dog(s) during the lockdown, including barking and dogs being “clingy” or vocalising when briefly left alone. Based on these findings, we suggest intervention strategies to best support dog welfare that include helping dog owners to teach dogs to cope with being alone, even if owners do not need to leave their dogs alone.
Identification of Target Chicken Populations by Machine Learning Models Using the Minimum Number of SNPs
Authors: Seo Dongwon , Cho Sunghyun , Manjula Prabuddha , Choi Nuri , Kim Young-Kuk , Koh Yeong Jun , Lee Seung Hwan , Kim Hyung-Yong , Lee Jun Heon
Published: January 2021

A marker combination capable of classifying a specific chicken population could improve commercial value by increasing consumer confidence with respect to the origin of the population. This would facilitate the protection of native genetic resources in the market of each country. In this study, a total of 283 samples from 20 lines, which consisted of Korean native chickens, commercial native chickens, and commercial broilers with a layer population, were analyzed to determine the optimal marker combination comprising the minimum number of markers, using a 600 k high-density single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array. Machine learning algorithms, a genome-wide association study (GWAS), linkage disequilibrium (LD) analysis, and principal component analysis (PCA) were used to distinguish a target (case) group for comparison with control chicken groups. In the processing of marker selection, a total of 47,303 SNPs were used for classifying chicken populations; 96 LD-pruned SNPs (50 SNPs per LD block) served as the best marker combination for target chicken classification. Moreover, 36, 44, and 8 SNPs were selected as the minimum numbers of markers by the AdaBoost (AB), Random Forest (RF), and Decision Tree (DT) machine learning classification models, which had accuracy rates of 99.6%, 98.0%, and 97.9%, respectively. The selected marker combinations increased the genetic distance and fixation index (Fst) values between the case and control groups, and they reduced the number of genetic components required, confirming that efficient classification of the groups was possible by using a small number of marker sets. In a verification study including additional chicken breeds and samples (12 lines and 182 samples), the accuracy did not significantly change, and the target chicken group could be clearly distinguished from the other populations. The GWAS, PCA, and machine learning algorithms used in this study can be applied efficiently, to determine the optimal marker combination with the minimum number of markers that can distinguish the target population among a large number of SNP markers.
Accumulation of C-CTX1 in Muscle Tissue of Goldfish (Carassius auratus) by Dietary Experience
Authors: Sanchez-Henao Andres , García-Álvarez Natalia , Padilla Daniel , Ramos-Sosa María , Silva Sergent Freddy , Fernández Antonio , Estévez Pablo , Gago-Martínez Ana , Diogène Jorge , Real Fernando
Published: January 2021

Ciguatoxins (CTXs) are produced by dinoflagellates usually present in tropical and subtropical waters. These toxins are bioaccumulated and transformed in fish causing ciguatera fish poisoning (CFP) in humans. Few trials have been performed to understand how CTXs are incorporated into fish. This study developed an experimental model of goldfish (Carassius auratus) fed flesh contaminated with Caribbean ciguatoxin (C-CTX1). Fourteen goldfish were fed 0.014 ng CTX1B (Eq. g−1 of body weight) daily, and control goldfish received non-toxic flesh. CTX presence was determined by a cell-based assay on days 1, 8, 15, 29, 36, 43, and 84. Toxicity was detected in muscle from the second sampling and then seemed to stabilize at ~0.03 ng CTX1B Eq. g−1. After two weeks, all experimental goldfish developed lethargy and loss of brightness, but only two of them displayed erratic swimming and jerking movements near the sixth sampling. One of these fish had its toxic diet replaced by commercial food for 60 more days; the fish showed recovery signs within the first weeks and no CTX activity was detected. These results indicate that C-CTX1 could accumulate in goldfish muscle tissue and produce toxic symptoms, but also remarked on the detoxification and recovery capacity of this species.
The Prospect of Repurposing Immunomodulatory Drugs for Adjunctive Chemotherapy against Tuberculosis: A Critical Review
Authors: Lee Chiyun , Bhakta Sanjib
Published: January 2021

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a global health emergency, with an estimated 2 billion people infected across the world, and 1.4 million people dying to this disease every year. Many aspects of the causative agent, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, make this disease difficult for healthcare and laboratory researchers to fight against, such as unique pathophysiology, latent infection and long and complex treatment regimens, thus causing patient non-compliance with the treatment. Development of new drugs is critical for tackling these problems. Repurposing drugs is a promising strategy for generating an effective drug treatment whilst circumventing many of the challenges of conventional drug development. In this regard, the incorporation of immunomodulatory drugs into the standard regimen to potentiate frontline drugs is found to be highly appealing. Drugs of diverse chemical classes and drug categories are increasingly being evidenced to possess antitubercular activity, both in vitro and in vivo. This article explores and discusses the molecular entities that have shown promise in being repurposed for use in anti-TB adjunctive therapy and aims to provide the most up-to-date picture of their progress.
The Influence of a Conjugated Pneumococcal Vaccination on Plasma Antibody Levels against Oxidized Low-Density Lipoprotein in Metabolic Disease Patients: A Single-Arm Pilot Clinical Trial
Authors: Shiri-Sverdlov Ronit , dos Reis Inês Magro , Oligschlaeger Yvonne , Hendrikx Tim , Meesters Dennis M. , Vanclooster Annick , Vanhoutvin Nele , Koek Ger H. , Westerterp Marit , Binder Christoph J. , Cassiman David , Houben Tom
Published: January 2021

As a mediator between lipid metabolism dysfunction, oxidative stress and inflammation, oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) is a promising therapeutical target in a wide range of metabolic diseases. In mice, pneumococcal immunization increases anti-phosphorylcholine and oxLDL antibody levels, and reduces atherosclerosis, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and Niemann–Pick disease burden. These findings suggest that pneumococcal vaccination may be a useful preventive and therapeutical strategy in metabolic disease patients. In this pilot clinical trial, our aim was to determine whether the administration of a pneumococcal vaccine increases anti-phosphorylcholine and anti-oxLDL antibody levels in metabolic disease patients. The following patients were enrolled: four patients with familial partial lipodystrophy (all women, mean age 32 years old); three familial hypercholesterolemia patients (one girl, two boys; mean age 13 years); and two Niemann–Pick type B (NP-B) patients (two men, mean age 37.5 years old). Participants received one active dose of a 13-valent conjugated pneumococcal vaccine (Prevenar 13) and were followed-up for four weeks. Four weeks after Prevenar 13 vaccination, no differences were observed in patients’ levels of anti-oxLDL IgM or IgG antibodies. In addition, we observed a reduction in anti-phosphorylcholine (anti-PC) IgM antibody levels, whereas no differences were observed in anti-PC IgG antibody titers. These findings indicate that Prevenar 13 vaccination does not induce an immune response against oxLDL in patients with metabolic diseases. Therefore, Prevenar 13 is not suited to target the metabolic disruptor and pro-inflammatory mediator oxLDL in patients.
The Positive Allosteric Modulation of alpha7-Nicotinic Cholinergic Receptors by GAT107 Increases Bacterial Lung Clearance in Hyperoxic Mice by Decreasing Oxidative Stress in Macrophages
Authors: Gauthier Alex G. , Wu Jiaqi , Lin Mosi , Sitapara Ravikumar , Kulkarni Abhijit , Thakur Ganesh A. , Schmidt Edward E. , Perron Jeanette C. , Ashby Charles R. , Mantell Lin L.
Published: January 2021

Supplemental oxygen therapy with supraphysiological concentrations of oxygen (hyperoxia; >21% O2) is a life-saving intervention for patients experiencing respiratory distress. However, prolonged exposure to hyperoxia can compromise bacterial clearance processes, due to oxidative stress-mediated impairment of macrophages, contributing to the increased susceptibility to pulmonary infections. This study reports that the activation of the α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR) with the delete allosteric agonistic-positive allosteric modulator, GAT107, decreases the bacterial burden in mouse lungs by improving hyperoxia-induced lung redox imbalance. The incubation of RAW 264.7 cells with GAT107 (3.3 µM) rescues hyperoxia-compromised phagocytic functions in cultured macrophages, RAW 264.7 cells, and primary bone marrow-derived macrophages. Similarly, GAT107 (3.3 µM) also attenuated oxidative stress in hyperoxia-exposed macrophages, which prevents oxidation and hyper-polymerization of phagosome filamentous actin (F-actin) from oxidation. Furthermore, GAT107 (3.3 µM) increases the (1) activity of superoxide dismutase 1; (2) activation of Nrf2 and (3) the expression of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) in macrophages exposed to hyperoxia. Overall, these data suggest that the novel α7nAChR compound, GAT107, could be used to improve host defense functions in patients, such as those with COVID-19, who are exposed to prolonged periods of hyperoxia.
Vacuole and Mitochondria Patch (vCLAMP) Protein Vam6 Is Involved in Maintenance of Mitochondrial and Vacuolar Functions under Oxidative Stress in Candida albicans
Authors: Mao Xiaolong , Yang Li , Liu Yingzheng , Ma Congcong , Ma Tianyu , Yu Qilin , Li Mingchun
Published: January 2021

Candida albicans is one of the most common opportunistic fungal pathogens in human beings. When infecting host cells, C. albicans is often exposed to oxidative stress from the host immune defense system. Maintenance of mitochondrial and vacuolar functions is crucial for its resistance to oxidative stress. However, the role of vacuole and mitochondria patchs (vCLAMPs) in cellular oxidative stress resistance and in the maintenance of organelle functions remains to be elucidated. Herein, the function of the vCLAMP protein Vam6 in response to oxidative stress was explored. The results showed that the vam6∆/∆ mutant exhibited obvious mitochondrial swelling, mtDNA damage, reduced activity of antioxidant enzymes, and abnormal vacuolar morphology under H2O2 treatment, indicating its important role in maintaining the structures and functions of both mitochondria and vacuoles under oxidative stress. Further studies showed that deletion of VAM6 attenuated hyphal development under oxidative stress. Moreover, loss of Vam6 obviously affected host tissue invasion and virulence of C. albicans. Taken together, this paper reveals the critical role of vCLAMPs in response to oxidative stress in C. albicans.
Evaluation of the Seismic Retrofitting of Mainshock-Damaged Reinforced Concrete Frame Structure Using Steel Braces with Soft Steel Dampers
Authors: Yang Fujian , Wang Guoxin , Li Mingxin
Published: January 2021

Most reinforced concrete (RC) frames would exhibit different degrees of damage after mainshock excitations, and these mainshock-damaged RC (MD-RC) frames are highly vulnerable to severe damage or even complete collapse under aftershock excitations. In the present study, the effectiveness of utilizing soft steel damper (SSD) as a passive energy dissipation device for seismic retrofitting of MD-RC frame under aftershock actions was investigated. A common three-story RC frame in the rural area was employed and a numerical evaluation framework of retrofitting analysis of the MD-RC frame was also proposed. Based on proposed evaluation framework, nonlinear dynamic time history analysis of the MD-RC frame with and without retrofitting schemes was conducted to evaluate the retrofit effect of the retrofitting schemes on the MD-RC frame. The results revealed that the retrofitting schemes could effectively improve the natural vibration characteristics of the MD-RC frame, especially the first-order natural frequency with a maximum increase of nearly four times. The retrofit effect of the MD-RC frame under pulse-like aftershocks is better than non-pulse-like aftershocks and the retrofit effect of minor damage MD-RC frame is slightly better than that of severe damage. In addition, only retrofitting the bottom story of MD-RC frame might cause aggravate structural damage.
Separation of Two-Dimensional Mixed Circular Fringe Patterns Based on Spectral Projection Property in Fractional Fourier Transform Domain
Authors: Chang Hsuan-Ting , Lin Tzu-Yao , Chuang Chih-Hao , Chen Chien-Yu , Ho Chian C. , Chang Chuan-Yu
Published: January 2021

In this paper, a method for automatically separating the mixed circular fringe patterns based on the fractional Fourier transform (FrFT) analysis is proposed. Considering the mixed two-dimensional (2-D) Gaussian-based circular fringe patterns, detected by using an image sensor, we propose a method that can efficiently determine the number and parameters of each separated fringe patterns by using the FrFT due to the observed higher sparsity in the frequency domain than that in the spatial domain. First, we review the theory of FrFT and the properties of the 2-D circular fringe patterns. By searching the spectral intensities of the various fractional orders in the FrFT projected along both the frequency axes, the proposed method can automatically determine the total fringe number, the central position, binary phase, and the maximum fringe width of each 2-D circular fringe pattern. In the experimental results, both the computer-simulated and optically mixed fringe patterns are used to verify the proposed method. In addition, the additive Gaussian noise effects on the proposed method are investigated. The proposed method can still successfully separate the mixed fringe pattern when the signal-to-noise ratio is higher than 7 dB.