bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of various surface treatments on the shear bond strength between lithium disilicate ceramics and resin cement
Authors: Alrabeah Ghada , Alhamid Reem F. , Alamer Buthainah A. , Alrajhi Farah N. , Binrayes Abdulaziz , Habib Syed Rashid
Published: November 2024

Pre-etching ceramic restorations in dental laboratories is preferred by numerous dentists due to the potential health concerns associated with handling hydrofluoric acid (HF) if not managed correctly. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of different surface treatments on the shear bond strength (SBS) between lithium disilicate ceramics and self-adhesive resin cement. For this study, a total of 60 IPS e. max CAD (Ivoclar Vivadent) lithium disilicate specimens were prepared. Specimens were randomly divided into six groups, with 10 specimens per each. Different surface treatments were applied (1: Control group no surface treatment (C); 2: 10% hydrofluoric with silane coupling agent (HFS); 3: 10% hydrofluoric acid only (HF); 4: Sandblasting with 50 μm aluminum-oxide powder (AO); 5: Sandblasting with 30 μm silica-coated aluminum-oxide powder (SC), and 6: Er,Cr:YSGG laser (L). SBS tests were performed, and data analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey’s multiple comparisons. The difference between the mean average of SBS was statistically significant among all different surface treatments (p ≤ 0.05) except for the L group with a (p = 1.00). The highest mean value was observed in the HFS followed by the HF group. Whereas the L group showed no statistical significance in comparison with the C group (p > 0.05). Hydrofluoric acid etching in combination with a silane coupling agent was the most effective surface treatment for bonding lithium disilicate ceramics with resin cement. In contrast, laser irradiation was the least effective among all other groups.
Effects of various supplemental levels of multi-enzyme complex on amino acid profiles in egg yolk, antioxidant capacity, cecal microbial community and metabolites of laying hens
Authors: Huang Qixin , Chen Rui , Wu Wenzi , Fan Jinghui , Ma Xin , Chen Zhou , Ye Wenxin , Qian Lichun
Published: November 2024

This study aimed to investigate the effects of multi-enzyme (alkaline protease, xylanase, glucanase, β-mannanase, cellulase, acid protease, glucoamylase, and α-galactosidase) on antioxidant capacity, egg quality, amino acid profiles in yolk, cecal microflora and metabolites in laying hens. A total of 384 Jingfen No.6 laying hens aged 65 weeks were randomly divided into 4 treatments groups (6 replicates per group) and fed diets containing 0, 150, 300, or 600 mg kg−1 multi-enzyme over an 8-week feeding duration. Our findings revealed that supplementation with 600 mg kg−1 of multi-enzyme significantly increased the albumen height (P < 0.05) and haugh unit (P < 0.05). Moreover, as the levels of multi-enzyme supplementation in the diet increased, there were significant increases in activities of total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) in serum (P < 0.05) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) in the liver (P < 0.05). Different levels of multi-enzyme supplementation significantly affected the composition of amino acid profiles in the yolk. Furthermore, the results from 16S rRNA sequencing and untargeted metabolomics analysis of cecal content revealed that multi-enzyme supplementation altered the cecal microflora and metabolite profiles. We found the relative abundance of the Bacteroidota phyla in T600 group was significantly increased (P < 0.05) compared to CON and T150 groups, but the relative abundance of the Firmicutes phylum in T600 group were significantly lower than T150 group (P < 0.05). At the genus level, the relative abundance of the Parabacteroides genera in T300 group, the Faecalibacterium genera in T300 and T600 groups, the norank_f_Prevotellaceae genera in treatment groups (T150, T300 and T600), the norank_f_Peptococcaceae genera in T600 group, and the Monoglobus genera in T1 group were significantly increased. The KEGG pathway analysis showed that the common enrichment metabolic pathways of each treatment group compared to the CON group were glycine, serine and threonine metabolism, foxo signaling pathway and mTOR signaling pathway, and the enrichment metabolic pathways shared by T300 vs CON and T600 vs CON was galactose metabolism and glycolysis/gluconeogenesis pathways. Correlation analysis identified notable relationships between specific microbes and metabolites with T-AOC in serum, GSH-Px activity in the liver, amino acids in yolk, albumen height, and haugh units. Overall, this study suggests that multi-enzyme supplementation regulated the cecal microbial community and metabolism, potentially influencing amino acid profiles in yolk, antioxidant capacity, and egg quality.
Drought-tolerant fungal microbes, Aspergillus oryzae and Aspergillus fumigatus, elevate physiohormonal and antioxidant responses of maize under drought stress
Authors: Niaz Kiran , Rauf Mamoona , Arif Muhammad , Hamayun Muhammad , Gul Humaira , Hashem Abeer , Abd_Allah Elsayed Fathi , Wu Qiang-Sheng
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Temporary and extended drought stress accelerates phytohormones and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in plants, however, the fate of the plants under stress is mostly determined by the metabolic and molecular reprogramming, which can be modulated by the application of habitat-adapted fungi that triggers resistance to stress upon symbiotic association.

Methods

The present research exhibited the exploitation of the newly isolated, drought habitat-adapted fungal endophytic consortium of SAB (Aspergillus oryzae) and CBW (Aspergillus fumigatus), on maize under drought stress. SAB and CBW primarily hosted the root tissues of Conyza bonariensis L., which have not been reported earlier, and sufficiently produced growth-promoting metabolites and antioxidants.

Results

SAB and CBW adeptly inhabited the maize roots. They promoted biomass, primary metabolites, osmolytes (protein, sugar, lipids, proline, phenolics, flavonoids), and IAA production while reducing tannins, ABA, and H2O2 contents and increasing antioxidant enzyme activities. In addition, the enhanced adventitious root development at the root/stem interface, and elongated main root development optimum stomatal activity of SAB- and CBW-inoculated maize plants were observed under drought stress. SAB and CBW modulated the expression of the ZmBSK1, ZmAPX, and ZmCAT1 genes in the maize shoot and root tissues under drought stress vs. control, signifying an essential regulatory function for SAB/CBW-induced drought stress tolerance via phytohormonal signaling pathway leading to the antioxidant upregulation.

Discussion

These findings imply that the exogenous administration of the SAB/CBW consortium might be a rather efficient strategy that contributes to optimizing the physio-hormonal attributes and antioxidant potential to alleviate the drought stress in maize.
Oral administration of Limosilactobacillus ingluviei C37 inhibits Campylobacter jejuni colonization in chicks
Authors: Murakami Aito , Watanabe-Yanai Ayako , Iwata Taketoshi , Namai Fu , Sato Takashi , Fujii Tadashi , Tochio Takumi , Khempaka Sutisa , Shimosato Takeshi
Published: November 2024

As the global population continues to grow, so too does the demand for poultry meat. However, the concurrent increase in the prevalence of drug-resistant bacteria has stimulated interest in the search for alternatives to antibiotics in poultry and livestock agriculture. One potential strategy is the use of probiotics. In this study, we showed that prophylactic oral administration of Limosilactobacillus ingluviei C37 (LIC37) reduced Campylobacter jejuni colonization of the cecum in cage-raised chicks, without causing significant changes in the overall diversity of gut bacteria. Further, the abundance of Blautia, another genus of probiotic bacteria, increased in the gastrointestinal tract following ingestion of LIC37 by chicks. These findings suggest that LIC37 could potentially be used as a novel probiotic agent against C. jejuni in livestock production.
Fate of in vitro cultured Mycobacterium abscessus populations when exposed to moxifloxacin
Authors: Salina Elena G. , Martini Billy A. , Sorokin Vladimir V. , Mulyukin Andrey L.
Published: November 2024

Given the current need for predictive persisting model for Mycobacterium abscessus, we adopted a classical assay to study drug-tolerant bacterial persisters, focusing on the behavior of a small antibiotic-insensitive subpopulation during prolonged exposure to moxifloxacin. Our study showed a wide-ranging response of M. abscessus, depending on antibiotic concentration, growth stage of mycobacterial cultures, and the availability of potassium ions in the medium. Mid-logarithmic cultures, initially grown in either balanced or K+-free medium, contained small sup-populations capable of prolonged and stable survival in the presence of moxifloxacin. The response of these mid-log cultures to antibiotic exposure involved initial killing, followed by regrowth at 1–2 MBCs of moxifloxacin or a substantial reduction of the antibiotic-insensitive subpopulation to fewer than 102 CFU/mL at 16 MBCs. In stationary-phase cultures grown in a complete medium, a consistent number of viable cells was observed when exposed to a high dose of moxifloxacin. In contrast, antibiotic-insensitive subpopulations in stationary-phase M. abscessus cultures under potassium-deficient conditions experienced gradual killing across a wide range of moxifloxacin concentrations (1–16 MBCs). Studies on electron microscopy demonstrated that singular cells were rapidly destroyed after relatively short-term exposure to moxifloxacin, while cells in aggregates or clumps persisted longer, explaining the delayed biocidal effect. The small subpopulation that survived under intense moxifloxacin pressure was notably heterogeneous in cell morphology and fine structure, consisting of ovoid forms and cell-wall-deficient cells with reduced size. These findings suggest that the same antibiotic dose may have varying effects on M. abscessus cells, depending on their physiological state and abundance within infected cells or tissues. Taken together, our study may contribute to the development of strategies to combat recalcitrant survivor subpopulations.
Comparative analysis of antimicrobial resistance and genetic diversity of Bordetella bronchiseptica isolates obtained from swine within the United States
Authors: Nicholson Tracy L. , Shore Sarah M.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Bordetella bronchiseptica is bacterial pathogen that is pervasive in swine populations and serves multiple roles in respiratory disease.

Methods

This study utilized whole-genome sequencing (WGS) analysis to assess the sequence type (ST), identify the genetic diversity of genes predicted to encode regulatory and virulence factors, and evaluated any potential antimicrobial resistance harbored by B. bronchiseptica isolates obtained from swine within the U.S.

Results

While a generally high degree of genomic conservation was observed among the swine B. bronchiseptica isolates, genetic diversity was identified within the fimNX locus and among the sequence type six (ST6) isolates. The majority of B. bronchiseptica isolates exhibited phenotypic resistance to four antibiotic classes, however, only three antimicrobial resistance genes were identified.

Discussion

Combined the data suggests that B. bronchiseptica isolates are not serving as a source of antimicrobial resistance gene transference in the swine production environment.
A goldilocks computational protocol for inhibitor discovery targeting DNA damage responses including replication-repair functions
Authors: Moiani Davide , Tainer John A.
Published: November 2024

While many researchers can design knockdown and knockout methodologies to remove a gene product, this is mainly untrue for new chemical inhibitor designs that empower multifunctional DNA Damage Response (DDR) networks. Here, we present a robust Goldilocks (GL) computational discovery protocol to efficiently innovate inhibitor tools and preclinical drug candidates for cellular and structural biologists without requiring extensive virtual screen (VS) and chemical synthesis expertise. By computationally targeting DDR replication and repair proteins, we exemplify the identification of DDR target sites and compounds to probe cancer biology. Our GL pipeline integrates experimental and predicted structures to efficiently discover leads, allowing early-structure and early-testing (ESET) experiments by many laboratories. By employing an efficient VS protocol to examine protein-protein interfaces (PPIs) and allosteric interactions, we identify ligand binding sites beyond active sites, leveraging in silico advances for molecular docking and modeling to screen PPIs and multiple targets. A diverse 3,174 compound ESET library combines Diamond Light Source DSI-poised, Protein Data Bank fragments, and FDA-approved drugs to span relevant chemotypes and facilitate downstream hit evaluation efficiency for academic laboratories. Two VS per library and multiple ranked ligand binding poses enable target testing for several DDR targets. This GL library and protocol can thus strategically probe multiple DDR network targets and identify readily available compounds for early structural and activity testing to overcome bottlenecks that can limit timely breakthrough drug discoveries. By testing accessible compounds to dissect multi-functional DDRs and suggesting inhibitor mechanisms from initial docking, the GL approach may enable more groups to help accelerate discovery, suggest new sites and compounds for challenging targets including emerging biothreats and advance cancer biology for future precision medicine clinical trials.
Take it sitting down: the effect of body posture on cortical potentials during free viewing—A mobile EEG recording study
Authors: Soto Vicente , Tyson-Carr John , Kokmotou Katerina , Roberts Hannah , Byrne Adam , Hewitt Danielle , Fallon Nicholas , Giesbrecht Timo , Stancak Andrej
Published: November 2024

Brain imaging performed in natural settings is known as mobile brain and body imaging (MoBI). One of the features which distinguishes MoBI and laboratory-based experiments is the body posture. Previous studies pointed to mechanical, autonomic, cortical and cognitive differences between upright stance and sitting or reclining. The purpose of this study was to analyse effects of posture on eye-movement related potentials (EMRP) recorded during free viewing of human faces. A 64-channel wireless EEG was recorded from 14 participants in either standing or reclining postures while they freely viewed pictures of emotional faces displaying fear, anger, sadness, and a neutral emotional state. Eye tracking data was used to insert triggers corresponding to the instant at which the gaze first landed on a face. Spatial filtering of the EEG data was performed using a group independent component analysis (ICA). Grand average EMRPs displayed the post-saccadic lambda component and the face-sensitive N170/vertex positive potential (VPP) complex. The lambda component but not the N170 component was stronger during reclining than upright posture. Emotional expression of faces showed no effects on EMRP components or subjective ratings. Results suggest that posture primarily affects early components of EMRPs recorded using wireless EEG recordings during free viewing of faces. Thus, findings from evoked potential data obtained in seated individuals, e.g., in laboratory experiments, should be interpreted with caution in MoBI experiments with posture affecting primarily the early latency component.
Preventive effect of cranberries with high dose of proanthocyanidins on urinary tract infections: a meta-analysis and systematic review
Authors: Xiong Zheyu , Gao Yongli , Yuan Chi , Jian Zhongyu , Wei Xin
Published: November 2024

Introduction

One of the most prevalent bacterial diseases in both the general population and hospitals are urinary tract infections (UTIs). There is still conflicting scientific data about the usefulness of cranberry products in preventing UTIs. Our meta-analysis investigated whether the content of the main component, proanthocyanidins (PACs), in cranberries affects their ability to prevent UTIs.

Methods

The average daily intake of PACs has already been reported in previous randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that intended to investigate the effectiveness of cranberry in preventing UTIs, which were collected in our meta-analysis. The results were reported as the number of participants with UTIs. Random effect or fixed effect models were chosen for statistical analysis based on the heterogeneity.

Results

Ten RCTs that matched the requirements were included. The results showed that when the daily intake of PACs was at least 36mg, the risk of UTIs was reduced by 18% (RR = 0.82, 95% CI = 0.69–0.98, p = 0.03). But when the daily intake of PACs was less than 36 mg, there was no statistical significance risk decrease (p = 0.39). The results of the sub-group analysis showed that cranberries only significantly reduced the risk of UTIs when the duration of cranberry product use falls between 12 and 24 weeks (RR = 0.75, 95% CI = 0.61–0.91, p = 0.004). Additionally, cranberries also significantly reduced the risk of UTIs only in subgroups that just included females (RR = 0.84, 95% CI = 0.71–0.98, p = 0.02).

Discussion

These findings showed a strong correlation between the daily use of the active ingredient PACs found in cranberry products and the prevention of UTIs. Our meta-analysis is the first to show that there are minimum daily PAC consumption intake levels in cranberry products and length of use considerations that are needed to achieve clinically relevant UTI prevention benefits.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO (CRD42023385398).
Gut microbiota, physical activity and/or metabolic markers in healthy individuals - towards new biomarkers of health
Authors: Myhrstad Mari C. W. , Ruud Emilia , Gaundal Line , Gjøvaag Terje , Rud Ida , Retterstøl Kjetil , Ulven Stine M. , Holven Kirsten B. , Koehler Karsten , Telle-Hansen Vibeke H.
Published: November 2024

Background

The global prevalence of the metabolic disease Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) is increasing. Risk factors contributing to the development of T2D include overweight and obesity, lack of physical activity (PA), and an unhealthy diet. In addition, the gut microbiota has been shown to affect metabolic regulation. Since T2D is preventable, efforts should be put into the discovery of new biomarkers for early detection of individuals at risk of developing the disease.

Objective

The objective of the cross-sectional study was to explore the relationship between gut microbiota and physical activity (PA) and/or metabolic markers such as selected amino acids (AA), markers of glycaemic regulation and lipid metabolism and anthropometric measures.

Design

Healthy adults (18 and 65 years) with BMI between 18.5 and 27.5 kg/m2 originally recruited to a randomised controlled trial (RCT) (n = 17: six males, eleven females), were included in this exploratory cross-sectional study. Physical activity data was calculated based on a 3-days registration, and blood metabolome, gut microbiota analyses and anthropometric measures from one visit of the intervention were used in this cross-sectional study.

Results

Of the 47 gut bacteria analysed, there were a total of 87 significant correlations with AA, PA, body composition and/or metabolic markers. Several of the gut bacteria correlated with both PA, metabolic or anthropometric markers.

Conclusion

In this study, we demonstrate associations between gut bacteria and PA and/or metabolic markers including AA in healthy individuals. The results may guide future studies aiming at identifying new and early biomarkers of metabolic health and diseases.
Psycho-oncological burden in patients with brain metastases undergoing neurological surgery
Authors: Araceli Tommaso , Fischl Anna , Haj Amer , Doenitz Christian , Stoerr Eva-Maria , Hillberg Andrea , Vogelhuber Martin , Rosengarth Katharina , Riemenschneider Markus J. , Hau Peter , Blazquez Raquel , Pukrop Tobias , Bumes Elisabeth , Schmidt Nils Ole , Proescholdt Martin
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The development of brain metastases (BM) can significantly increase the psycho-oncological burden in cancer patients, requiring timely intervention. In addition, this aspect may negatively affect the course of the disease and treatment outcome. However, screening for psycho-oncological burden is often overlooked in clinical routine. Therefore, we analyzed the extent of psycho-oncological distress in a patient population with BM receiving neurosurgical resection and identified clinical characteristics associated with a high need for psycho-oncological intervention.

Methods

We prospectively screened 353 patients (169 female, 184 male, mean age 61.9 years) scheduled for microsurgical resection of one or more BM. Psycho-oncological screening was performed on the day of admission using the Hornheider screening instrument (HSI) and the distress thermometer (DT). Screening results were correlated with demographic and clinical data.

Results

Most patients (73.1%) completed the screening questionnaire. Patients who failed to complete the questionnaire presented more frequently with metachronous BM (74.7% vs. 25.3%, p=0.009), were significantly older (p=0.0018), and had a significantly lower KPS score (p=0.0002). Based on the threshold values of the questionnaires, 59.3% of the patients showed a significant psycho-oncological burden requiring immediate intervention. Univariate analysis demonstrated that synchronous BM (p=0.034), tumors in eloquent areas (p=0.001), lower KPS (p=0.031), female gender (p=0.009), and presurgical aphasia (p=0.042) were significantly associated with high psycho-oncological burden. Multivariate analysis showed synchronous BM (p=0.045), female gender (p=0.005), and lower KPS (p=0.028) as independent factors associated with high psycho-oncological burden.

Conclusion

The majority of patients with BM have a high psycho-oncological burden. Female gender, synchronous BM, and lower KPS are independently associated with a need for psycho-oncological intervention.
Exploring the predictors of foreign language anxiety: the roles of language proficiency, language exposure, and cognitive control
Authors: Xu Yan , Xie Zhilong
Published: November 2024

This research delves into unexplored territories of Foreign Language Anxiety (FLA), going beyond the traditional focus on language proficiency. We examined the nuanced roles of language exposure and individual differences in cognitive control abilities in shaping FLA. By engaging 46 English learners in a comprehensive assessment, our analysis uncovered significant yet distinct contributions of these factors to various aspects of FLA. Notably, proficiency predicted communication and overall anxiety, exposure influenced evaluation anxiety, while inhibition and mental set shifting abilities significantly predicted communication and test anxiety respectively. These findings illuminate the complexity of FLA, revealing that it stems from a multifaceted interplay of language proficiency, exposure, and cognitive control. This holistic understanding offers valuable insights for educators and learners alike, emphasizing the importance of tailored strategies that address not just language proficiency but also exposure opportunities and cognitive strengths.
The COVID-19 health emergency: the influence of the Human Development Index on the reorganization of primary care
Authors: Corrêa Ana Paula de Vechi , Ribeiro Ana Cristina , Cano Rodrigo das Neves , Magno Gustavo Diego , Álvarez-Nieto Carmen , Uehara Silvia Carla da Silva André
Published: November 2024

Objective

This study aimed to analyze and compare the organization and care offered by Primary Health Care (PHC) to people with suspected and/or diagnosed COVID-19 in Brazilian municipalities, considering the Human Development Index (HDI).

Methods

This is an analytical cross-sectional study carried out with managers of PHC services in Brazilian municipalities. The data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire via Google Forms between April and September 2022 and were analyzed using prevalence ratios, using a Poisson regression model with a random effect and a 5% significance level.

Results

The results indicated that municipalities with a low HDI were the most adherent to measures to reorganize PHC services during the health emergency phase of the pandemic when compared to municipalities with a medium, high, or very high HDI.

Conclusion

This may be related to the better organization and structure of this level of care in the municipalities analyzed, pointing to the need for management that considers the population’s living conditions when dealing with public health emergencies.
Improving life quality for the aged: a comprehensive post-occupancy evaluation of long-term care facilities in China
Authors: Chen Yu , Zhang Jiamin , Yang Zhuohang , Qiu Zhi
Published: November 2024

Introduction

In response to the call for active aging, improving the quality of residential environments for older people is becoming a worldwide concern. Over the past decade, China has witnessed a significant increase in the construction of long-term care facilities (LTCFs) catering to the older adult with physical and mental limitations. However, the fast pace of LTCF development has led to substandard physical environments that compromise the quality of life for older individuals. Consequently, there is an urgent need to conduct comprehensive post-occupancy evaluations (POEs) in order to systematically assess the current state of LTCF physical environments and identify prevailing problems therein.

Methods

This study conducted POEs on 37 existing LTCFs from both objective and subjective perspectives, using self-developed environmental assessment tools and user satisfaction questionnaires.

Results

The results reveal substantial room for improvement within LTCF physical environments, particularly concerning outdoor areas, resident rooms and staff spaces. The psychological needs of residents and working requirements of staff are not adequately addressed or supported.

Discussion

A total of ninety-two typical problems are identified across eight categories, and relevant causes associated with programming, design, construction, and operation are discussed. The findings are expected to serve as warnings for future designs, provide empirical evidence for the revision of relevant standards, and promote the sustainable development of LTCF construction.
Assessment of immunological response to digital dermatitis pathogen derived antigens following infection, recovery, and reinfection
Authors: Coatney John W. , Krull Adam C. , Gorden Patrick J. , Shearer Jan , Humphrey Samuel , Olsen Steven , Plummer Paul J. , Wilson-Welder Jennifer H.
Published: November 2024

The ability to reliably induce bovine digital dermatitis (DD) in naive calves provides unique opportunities to evaluate immune responses of the calves to infection after disease induction, during healing, and after subsequent re-infection. Dairy calves infected in a previous induction trial were held until lesions resolved and were then re-infected in parallel with naïve calves. Humoral and cell-mediated responses were assessed via serum antibody titer and lymphocyte proliferation analysis with responses of previously infected calves compared with responses of the newly infected calves and naïve calves. In addition, feet of calves in both treatment groups were photographed and scored by a single blinded observer using a previously described induced lesion scoring system. All naïve calves developed lesions after initial infection whereas only 5 of 8 calves developed lesions consistent with DD after a second experimental infection. In the naïve group, lesions commensurate with DD occurred in 15 of 26 experimentally infected feet with 6 feet not included in the analysis due to bandage failure. In comparison, calves in the second infection group developed lesions in 10 of 25 infected feet. Humoral responses or cellular proliferative responses did not differ between the two treatment groups or between calves which developed or did not develop lesions after experimental infection. Our results indicate that resolution of lesions after DD infection, immunity only provides partial protection against reinfection. Further studies are needed to determine immune mechanisms that provide the observed partial protection against reinfection with DD.
Sheep dietary preferences in targeted grazing: demographic, management, and weather effects in northern mixed-grass prairie
Authors: Kersh Aaron J. , Fraley Hannah M. , Scasta J. Derek , Derner Justin D. , Lima Paulo de Mello Taveres , Stewart Whit C.
Published: November 2024

Diet selection and composition of sheep target grazing plains larkspur (Delphinium geyeri Greene) in northern mixed-grass prairie were evaluated during a drought year (2022). Thirteen Rambouillet ewes (3-to 6-year-old, body weight (BW) 76 kg ± 2.9), 14 Dorper ewes (3-to 6-year-old, BW 47 kg ± 1.8), and 123 Dorper ram lambs (<1 year-old, BW 25 kg ± 0.4) were used for targeted grazing. Over the 20-day first phase (mid-May to early June), sheep were subjected to three stock density treatments: (1) high, 40 animal units (AU)/ha, (2) moderate, 20 AU/ha, and (3) light, 13 AU/ha. In the second phase (21 d, early-to late-June), the same sheep grazed four 1.5 ha paddocks sequentially at a very light stock density of 7 AU/ha. Dietary composition was assessed through focal bite count observations at the plant functional group level for phase one only, and dietary composition was estimated through fecal DNA metabarcoding (f.DNA) at the plant species level for both phases. Results indicated a uniformly low preference for larkspur (< 1% in diets). There were no significant effects of breed or age on focal bite count observations of plant functional groups (grasses, forbs, and larkspur), nor were there significant effects of breed or age on f.DNA diet proportions of plant functional groups (p > 0.05). Stock density did influence focal bite count observations, with higher forb intake (p = 0.0004) and lower grass intake (p = 0.009) observed at the moderate density compared to the high density. In phase two, grass and larkspur intake decreased while forb intake increased according to f.DNA (p < 0.01). These findings suggest that moderate stock density, combined with an understanding of plant phenology, precipitation variability, and animal forage preferences can optimize vegetation and animal performance in adaptive targeted grazing management within this ecosystem.
One Health in Agricultural Sectors in Thailand, Lao PDR, and Vietnam: Interconnectedness Between Awareness and Socioeconomic Factors
Authors: Pechdin Watchara , Sinsamphanh Oulavanh , Bui-Thanh Long , Naruepatr Jiraphan , Swangsilp Sorasich , Chougule Mahesh , Phrasisombath Ketkesone , Ho Tien D. N. , Phan Van-Phuc
Published: November 2024

Objective

The study aims to analyze the interconnectedness of farmers’ socioeconomic factors and their awareness of the One Health framework.

Method

This study conducted a survey with 1,166 observations across Thailand, Lao, and Vietnam and employed binary logit regression for data analysis. Odds ratios were used for interpreting the results.

Results

The results indicated that certain socioeconomic factors—particularly household income, age, gender roles within the household, and household size—significantly influenced farmers’ awareness and engagement with One Health literacy. Awareness levels varied across the three countries: for example, the composition of adults in Thai farming households was correlated with awareness of environmental health and infectious diseases. In Lao PDR, gender was significantly associated with awareness of animal health, while in Vietnam, it was linked to awareness of animal disease transmission.

Conclusion

These determinants contribute to the application of a more integrated One Health approach among farmers in these areas.
Sarcopenic Obesity in Younger Adult Men and Women with and Without Intellectual Disability
Authors: Shah Neev , El-Mallakh Rif S. , May Philip
Published: November 2024

Background: Obesity is a common problem in adults with intellectual disability, but to our knowledge, there are no reports which address the problem of “sarcopenic obesity” in younger adults with intellectual disability. Methods: We performed an analysis of the body composition of 93 men and women with intellectual disability, and 70 matched men and women without intellectual disability, aged between 20 and 50 years. Results: Truncal Fat Index (TFI) was significantly higher in these younger adults with intellectual disability when compared to same-age individuals without intellectual disability, for both men and women. Additionally, using Skeletal Muscle Index (SMI), we found significant negative effects of truncal fat on skeletal muscle mass. These effects were much greater for those with intellectual disability, and especially for women with intellectual disability. Conclusions: This report underscores the importance of evaluation of skeletal muscle mass in all individuals with obesity, but this need appears to be greater for those with intellectual disability, especially women.
Increase in Strength After Multimodal Pain Management Concept in Patients with Cervical Radiculopathy—A Non-Randomized, Uncontrolled Clinical Trial
Authors: Zirkl Gerd , Schaumburger Jens , Gehentges Matthias , Kaiser Moritz
Published: November 2024

Background and Objective: Although multimodal pain therapy (MPT) is widely used in pain management for chronic cervical radiculopathy, its effect on increasing muscle strength in patients with cervical radiculopathy is not well documented. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a structured multimodal pain management program on muscle strength in these patients, using objective strength measurements as indicators of therapeutic success. Materials and Methods: This non-randomized, uncontrolled, prospective clinical study initially included 35 patients, but 10 were excluded due to incomplete data, resulting in a final sample of 25 patients (14 women and 11 men, aged 42 to 84 years) with cervical radiculopathy who underwent a multimodal pain management program at a specialized orthopedic clinic. Muscle strength was measured at admission and discharge using a hand-held dynamometer. Pain levels were assessed with the Numeric Rating Scale. An uncontrolled study design was chosen for ethical reasons, as it was deemed inappropriate to form a control group that would be deprived of necessary anti-inflammatory or analgesic medications. Result: Significant improvements were observed in overall muscle strength, with an 11% increase from 114.78 kg to 127.41 kg (p = 0.003). The strongest increase in strength was observed in the proximal cervical muscle groups, with a notable 22.9% (p < 0.001)improvement in the muscles involved in cervical inclination. However, no significant strength gains were detected in the peripheral muscle groups of the upper arm. Pain scores on the NRS decreased by 54.2% (p < 0.001). Conclusions: This study demonstrates that a multimodal pain management approach leads to significant improvements in muscle strength and pain reduction in patients with cervical radiculopathy. The increase in cervical muscle strength is closely associated with pain relief and improved functional outcomes, highlighting the value of conservative pain management strategies for these patients.
Detection of Critical Parts of River Crab Based on Lightweight YOLOv7-SPSD
Authors: Fang Guoai , Zhao Yu
Published: November 2024

The removal of back armor marks the first stage in the comprehensive processing of river crabs. However, the current low level of mechanization undermines the effectiveness of this process. By integrating robotic systems with image recognition technology, the efficient removal of dorsal armor from river crabs is anticipated. This approach relies on the rapid identification and precise positioning of the processing location at the crab’s tail, both of which are essential for optimal results. In this paper, we propose a lightweight deep learning model called YOLOv7-SPSD for detecting river crab tails. The goal is to accurately determine the processing location for the robotic removal of river crab back armor. We start by constructing a crab tail dataset and completing the data labeling process. To enhance the lightweight nature of the YOLOv7-tiny model, we incorporate the Slimneck module, PConv, and the SimAM attention mechanism. These additions help achieve an initial reduction in model size while preserving detection accuracy. Furthermore, we optimize the model by removing redundant parameters using the DepGraph pruning algorithm, which facilitates its application on edge devices. Experimental results show that the lightweight YOLOv7-SPSD model achieves a mean Average Precision (mAP) of 99.6% at a threshold of 0.5, an F1-score of 99.6%, and processes frames at a rate of 7.1 frames per second (FPS) on a CPU. Compared to YOLOv7-tiny, the improved model increases FPS by 2.7, reduces GFLOPS by 74.6%, decreases the number of parameters by 71.6%, and lowers its size by 8.1 MB. This study enhances the deployment of models in river crab processing equipment and introduces innovative concepts and methodologies for advancing intelligent river crab deep processing technology.
Impact of Camera Settings on 3D Reconstruction Quality: Insights from NeRF and Gaussian Splatting
Authors: Rangelov Dimitar , Waanders Sierd , Waanders Kars , van Keulen Maurice , Miltchev Radoslav
Published: November 2024

This paper explores the influence of various camera settings on the quality of 3D reconstructions, particularly in indoor crime scene investigations. Utilizing Neural Radiance Fields (NeRF) and Gaussian Splatting for 3D reconstruction, we analyzed the impact of ISO, shutter speed, and aperture settings on the quality of the resulting 3D reconstructions. By conducting controlled experiments in a meeting room setup, we identified optimal settings that minimize noise and artifacts while maximizing detail and brightness. Our findings indicate that an ISO of 200, a shutter speed of 1/60 s, and an aperture of f/3.5 provide the best balance for high-quality 3D reconstructions. These settings are especially useful for forensic applications, architectural visualization, and cultural heritage preservation, offering practical guidelines for professionals in these fields. The study also highlights the potential for future research to expand on these findings by exploring other camera parameters and real-time adjustment techniques.
Informative Path Planning Using Physics-Informed Gaussian Processes for Aerial Mapping of 5G Networks
Authors: Gruner Jonas F. , Graßhoff Jan , Wembers Carlos Castelar , Schweppe Kilian , Schildbach Georg , Rostalski Philipp
Published: November 2024

The advent of 5G technology has facilitated the adoption of private cellular networks in industrial settings. Ensuring reliable coverage while maintaining certain requirements at its boundaries is crucial for successful deployment yet challenging without extensive measurements. In this article, we propose the leveraging of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and Gaussian processes (GPs) to reduce the complexity of this task. Physics-informed mean functions, including a detailed ray-tracing simulation, are integrated into the GP models to enhance the extrapolation performance of the GP prediction. As a central element of the GP prediction, a quantitative evaluation of different mean functions is conducted. The most promising candidates are then integrated into an informative path-planning algorithm tasked with performing an efficient UAV-based cellular network mapping. The algorithm combines the physics-informed GP models with Bayesian optimization and is developed and tested in a hardware-in-the-loop simulation. The quantitative evaluation of the mean functions and the informative path-planning simulation are based on real-world measurements of the 5G reference signal received power (RSRP) in a cellular 5G-SA campus network at the Port of Lübeck, Germany. These measurements serve as ground truth for both evaluations. The evaluation results demonstrate that using an appropriate mean function can result in an enhanced prediction accuracy of the GP model and provide a suitable basis for informative path planning. The subsequent informative path-planning simulation experiments highlight these findings. For a fixed maximum travel distance, a path is iteratively computed, reducing the flight distance by up to 98% while maintaining an average root-mean-square error of less than 6 dBm when compared to the measurement trials.
MERGE: A Modal Equilibrium Relational Graph Framework for Multi-Modal Knowledge Graph Completion
Authors: Shang Yuying , Fu Kun , Zhang Zequn , Jin Li , Liu Zinan , Wang Shensi , Li Shuchao
Published: November 2024

The multi-modal knowledge graph completion (MMKGC) task aims to automatically mine the missing factual knowledge from the existing multi-modal knowledge graphs (MMKGs), which is crucial in advancing cross-modal learning and reasoning. However, few methods consider the adverse effects caused by different missing modal information in the model learning process. To address the above challenges, we innovatively propose a Modal Equilibrium Relational Graph framEwork, called MERGE. By constructing three modal-specific directed relational graph attention networks, MERGE can implicitly represent missing modal information for entities by aggregating the modal embeddings from neighboring nodes. Subsequently, a fusion approach based on low-rank tensor decomposition is adopted to align multiple modal features in both the explicit structural level and the implicit semantic level, utilizing the structural information inherent in the original knowledge graphs, which enhances the interpretability of the fused features. Furthermore, we introduce a novel interpolation re-ranking strategy to adjust the importance of modalities during inference while preserving the semantic integrity of each modality. The proposed framework has been validated on four publicly available datasets, and the experimental results have demonstrated the effectiveness and robustness of our method in the MMKGC task.
Recent Developments (2020–23) on the Use of LC in the Determination of Food Contaminants
Authors: Louppis A. P. , Kontominas M. G.
Published: November 2024

Food quality and safety are critical public health concerns, with approximately 600 million people worldwide being affected by foodborne diseases each year due to contamination. These diseases not only lead to a notable number of deaths but also impose substantial economic burdens, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Given the severe health risks posed by food contaminants, developing advanced, sensitive analytical methods to detect such contaminants is essential. Contemporary food safety challenges include detecting contaminants at trace levels and managing cumulative risks from simultaneous exposure to multiple chemicals. Liquid chromatography, particularly in combination with high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC/MS), has proven indispensable for detecting key contaminants such as perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, pesticides, veterinary residues, packaging-derived contaminants, mycotoxins, and pyrrolizidine alkaloids in various food matrices. The present article reviews recent studies on the subject published between 2020 and 2023.
Exploring the experiences, understandings, and expectations of exacerbations of patients with COPD and their carers: an interview study
Authors: Hutchinson Ann , Russell Richard , Cummings Helena , Usmani Omar , MacFadyen Sarah , Cohen Judith , Morris Tamsin , Muellerova Hana , Xu Yang , Hellens Gary , Roy Kay , Crooks Michael G
Published: November 2024

Background

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) exacerbations are clinically significant events that affect millions globally.

Aim

To explore patients’ and carers’ experiences, understandings and responses to exacerbations.

Design & setting

Semi-structured interviews with COPD patients and carers.

Method

Interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of COPD patients and carers from four centers in England. Interviews were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis, theoretically informed by the Breathing Space concept. This research is reported in line with the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research.

Results

Forty patient-participants were recruited: 21 female, 28 white, mean age 69 years [SD 8.1], mean COPD duration 11.3 years [SD 8.3], median 1.5 exacerbations in past year [range 0-9]. Seven carer-participants were recruited: 6 female, 6 white.

Three themes were identified: 1) The language clinicians use in COPD is important; 2) Episodes of symptom worsening have profound patient and carer impact and 3) Patients’ early experiences, including the responses of clinicians to their help-seeking, have a lasting effect on their behaviour. How patients respond to symptom worsening can be considered holistically in the context of the Breathing Space framework. Breathlessness affected all patient-participants and was a key symptom that precipitated action.

Conclusions

Our novel findings show how early help-seeking experiences shape later behaviour. Early emphasis on symptom management, preparation for exacerbations and post-exacerbation reviews are practical ways that clinicians can support patients and carers to manage these events better. The Breathing Space concept provides a useful framework to identify needs and tailor COPD management appropriately.
Fatores associados à incapacidade funcional de indivíduos hospitalizados após AVC
Authors: Boneberg Deiró Michele Carine , Rodrigues Lisboa Camila Keite , Reis dos Santos Marilucia , Pereira Rosa de Castro Isabella , Guerreiro Caroline
Published: November 2024

Introdução. O Acidente Vascular Cerebral (AVC) é um importante problema de saúde pública mundial, representando a terceira principal causa de morte e incapacidade combinada. Objetivo. Analisar os fatores associados à incapacidade funcional em indivíduos hospitalizados após AVC. Método. Estudo observacional, transversal, com amostra de conveniência composta por indivíduos de ambos o sexo, com idade entre 18 e 85 anos, com diagnóstico de AVC, internados em um hospital de referência na rede pública estadual, em Salvador-BA. Foram avaliadas a gravidade do insulto, controle postural, força muscular respiratória e incapacidade funcional com os instrumentos NIHSS, Escala PASS, manovacuometria e Escala de Rankin modificada, respectivamente. As correlações foram realizadas com o coeficiente de Spearman e as comparações com o teste de Mann-Whitney. Resultados. A amostra foi composta por 35 indivíduos, com média de idade 58,3±14,32 anos, tempo médio de internação 21,27±14,63 dias, predominantemente do sexo feminino (54,3%), etnia parda (40,6%), casado (41,2%), com diagnóstico de AVC isquêmico (80%), em exercício de alguma atividade laboral prévia ao evento (62,3%). A redução da PEmáx demonstrou correlação fraca com a incapacidade funcional. Já o controle postural tem correlação moderada, e a gravidade da lesão, correlação fraca com a incapacidade para autonomia nas atividades cotidianas após AVC. Na comparação entre as estratificações prognósticas da Rankin e as variáveis estudadas, apenas o controle postural apresentou diferença. Conclusão. A gravidade da lesão e as reduções da força muscular respiratória e do controle postural após AVC foram associadas à incapacidade funcional desde as primeiras semanas após o evento.