bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Yield Production from an Organic and Conventional Fertilization on Quinoa
Authors: Alvar-Beltrán Jorge , Dalla Marta Anna , Vivoli Roberto , Verdi Leonardo , Orlandini Simone
Published: April 2022

The high nutritional properties of quinoa have resulted in a production increase worldwide. The resistance to environmental stresses renders this crop suitable for sustainable farming systems. Few studies have examined the impact of different agricultural management strategies and its contribution to climate change. In this work, we quantify soil greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, in terms of carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O), and crop productivity (yields and biomass) under conventional (urea) and organic (digestate) fertilization. Significant differences (p < 0.05) in N2O cumulative emissions are reported between digestate (50–100 kg N ha−1), urea (50–100 kg N ha−1) and the control (0 kg N ha−1). Higher cumulative GHG emissions are observed under 100 kg N ha−1 of digestate (337.8 kg C ha−1 CO2 and 0.23 kg N ha−1 for N2O) compared to treatments with lower nitrogen (N) inputs. However, yield and biomass production do not show significant differences (p > 0.05) with increasing nutrient application. Hence, this study opens the discussion about the pros and cons of increasing fertilization to improve yields besides providing agricultural extension workers with additional information to promote sustainable quinoa production worldwide.
Using Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum) Extract to Improve the Welfare, Growth Performance and Meat Quality of Broiler Chicken
Authors: Bendowski Wiktor , Michalczuk Monika , Jóźwik Artur , Kareem Karwan Yaseen , Łozicki Andrzej , Karwacki Jakub , Bień Damian
Published: April 2022

Modern poultry production looks for feed and water additives that improve the welfare of chickens. The utilization of herbs as additives in feed or drinking water is becoming increasingly well known. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of milk thistle extract (Silybum marianum), administered in drinking water, on chickens’ welfare, production results, selected physicochemical properties of the breast muscles, the activity of selected enzymes, and the antioxidant potential of blood serum and breast muscles. A total of 102 one-day-old male ROSS 308 chicks were allocated into three treatment groups. The material was an infusion of dried milk thistle seeds in two doses, administered in drinking water for chickens (group: C = 0; E1 = 0.24; E2 = 0.36 g/day/animal) under standard rearing conditions. As a result of adding the milk thistle to the drinking water, there was an improvement in the welfare of the chickens and in the production results, enzymatic capacity of selected enzymes, and antioxidant capacity in the blood serum and in pectoral muscle (p ≤ 0.05). The addition of a milk thistle seed infusion for chickens can be used in poultry production to improve the rearing performance antioxidant capacity and welfare of chickens.
Effect of Concentration of Flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum) and Duration of Administration on Fatty Acid Profile, and Oxidative Stability of Pork Meat
Authors: Bartkovský Martin , Sopková Drahomíra , Andrejčáková Zuzana , Vlčková Radoslava , Semjon Boris , Marcinčák Slavomír , Bujňák Lukáš , Pospiech Matej , Nagy Jozef , Popelka Peter , Kyzeková Petronela
Published: April 2022

Flaxseed is a common ingredient used for livestock feed. The aim of this work was to study the effect of a diet supplemented with flaxseed at 5% and 10% concentrations in the intervals of 3 and 6 weeks prior slaughter on fatty acid profile and oxidative stability of pork meat. Meat samples were collected after slaughter from each animal (five groups, n = 6). Samples of the musculus longissimus dorsi (MLD) and the musculus gluteobiceps (MGB) were selected. Chemical composition, fatty acid profile and oxidative stability during the storage of meat under chilling conditions (4 °C, 7 days) was analyzed. The addition of flaxseed significantly affected the composition of fatty acid profile and the shelf life of the produced meat. The fat content was changed in the experimental groups with 10% flaxseed supplementation (10.84% in MGB and 9.56% MLD) versus the control group. Despite the different concentrations of flaxseed, the best EPA/AA ratio was observed in the experimental groups fed with flaxseed supplementation for 3 weeks. The worst oxidative stability of meat samples (p < 0.05) was recorded in the experimental groups with the addition of flaxseed for 6 weeks, which was related to higher PUFA content in samples of the experimental groups and higher susceptibility of PUFAs to lipid oxidation. The oxidative stability of meat in the experimental group fed 5% flaxseed supplementation for 3 weeks was not affected.
Molecular and Serological Characteristics of Avian Pathogenic Escherichia coli Isolated from Various Clinical Cases of Poultry Colibacillosis in Poland
Authors: Wilczyński Jarosław , Stępień-Pyśniak Dagmara , Wystalska Danuta , Wernicki Andrzej
Published: April 2022

Escherichia coli infections are a major problem in modern poultry production. Avian pathogenic E. coli (APEC) strains have several mechanisms that enable them to colonize various ecosystems. In this study, 290 E. coli isolates were recovered from clinical cases of colibacillosis in chicken and turkey broilers and from laying and breeding hens. The samples were taken from organs with pathological changes suggesting colibacillosis. The lesions were assigned to three groups depending on their advancement, of which the largest (60% of the isolates) was group 3, with the most extensive changes. The most common serotype was shown to be O78 (14%). The most frequently detected gene among those tested was iss, while papC was the least prevalent. An analysis of the number of genes present per isolate revealed that the presence of four genes was the most common (22%), while only 1% of the strains tested had all eight genes. The most frequently detected genes for each serotype were iss and iucD for O78; irp2 and cvi/cva for O1; irp2, iucD, and iss for O2, and iss and iucD for O8, for which the least frequent was papC. All O18 serotype strains had the iss gene, while none had the vat gene.
Evaluation of Salivary Biochemistry in Dogs with and without Plaque, Calculus, and Gingivitis: Preliminary Results
Authors: Perazzi Anna , Ricci Rebecca , Contiero Barbara , Iacopetti Ilaria
Published: April 2022

This study evaluated whether salivary alpha-amylase, lysozyme, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), calcium, and phosphorus can be used as markers of periodontal disease in dogs. Plaque, calculus, and gingivitis indexes were used to allocate 79 dogs in three groups: none (Group 1), moderate (Group 2), and severe (Group 3) periodontal disease. A blood sample and a saliva sample were collected from each dog to quantify biochemical parameters. LDH and phosphorus showed the highest values in Group 3 (LDH: Group 1, 2559.85 ± 676.95; vs. Group 2: 1636.76 ± 597.36 vs. Group 3: 4099.18 ± 545.45 U.I./l, p = 0.016; phosphorus: Group 1, 3.02 ± 0.76 vs. Group 2: 5.34 ± 0.67 vs. Group 3: 5.85± 0.61 mg/dl, p = 0.049) whereas calcium, amylase, and lysozyme did not differ among groups. A ROC curve analysis permitted the establishment of a salivary phosphorus cut-off value of 4.04 mg/dl, above which periodontal disease could be predicted (70% sensitivity (95% CI: 50.6–85.3%) and 72.41% specificity (95% CI: 52.8–87.3%)). Only salivary calcium was higher in males; no other salivary parameters appeared affected by gender or age. Although further results on a larger population are needed, this study shows that salivary LDH and phosphorus increase in dogs affected by plaque, supragingival calculus, and gingivitis, and this suggests their potential use as markers of periodontal disease in canine species.
Strategy for Local Plant-Based Material Valorisation to Higher-Value Feed Stock for Piglets
Authors: Badaras Sarunas , Ruzauskas Modestas , Gruzauskas Romas , Zokaityte Egle , Starkute Vytaute , Mockus Ernestas , Klementaviciute Jolita , Bartkevics Vadims , Vadopalas Laurynas , Klupsaite Dovile , Dauksiene Agila , Zokaityte Gintare , Mickiene Ruta , Bartkiene Elena
Published: April 2022

In this study, a 41-day experiment was conducted using 300 (21-day-old) Large White/Norwegian Landrace piglets (100 piglets in each group). Three dietary treatments were compared: (i) a basal diet (C-I), (ii) a basal diet with the addition of extruded–fermented wheat bran (Wex130/screwspeed25Lpa) (TG-II), and (iii) a basal diet with the addition of dried sugar beet pulp (TG-III). Analyses of piglets’ blood parameters, faecal microbial and physico-chemical characteristics, and piglets’ growth performance were performed. It was found that the extrusion and fermentation combination led to an additional functional value of Wex130/screwspeed25Lpa, which showed desirable antimicrobial and antifungal properties in vitro (inhibited 5 out of 10 tested pathogenic strains and 3 out of 11 tested fungi). Both treatments reduced total enterobacteria and increased lactic acid bacteria counts in piglets’ faeces. The consistency of the piglets’ faeces (in all three groups) was within a physiological range throughout the whole experiment. Strong positive correlations were found between the LAB count in piglets’ faeces and butanoic acid; butanoic acid, 3-methyl-; butyric acid (2-methyl-); pentanoic acid. The treatment groups obtained a significantly higher body weight gain and average daily gain. Finally, substituting the piglets’ diet with Wex130/screwspeed25Lpa and sugar beet pulp led to favourable changes in micro-organism populations in the piglets’ faeces as well as better growth performance.
Early Detection of Respiratory Diseases in Calves by Use of an Ear-Attached Accelerometer
Authors: Ramezani Gardaloud Nasrin , Guse Christian , Lidauer Laura , Steininger Alexandra , Kickinger Florian , Öhlschuster Manfred , Auer Wolfgang , Iwersen Michael , Drillich Marc , Klein-Jöbstl Daniela
Published: April 2022

Accelerometers (ACL) can identify behavioral and activity changes in calves. In the present study, we examined the association between bovine respiratory disease (BRD) and behavioral changes detected by an ear-tag based ACL system in weaned dairy calves. Accelerometer data were analyzed from 7 d before to 1 d after clinical diagnosis of BRD. All calves in the study (n = 508) were checked daily by an adapted University of Wisconsin Calf Scoring System. Calves with a score ≥ 4 and fever for at least two consecutive days were categorized as diseased (DIS). The day of clinical diagnosis of BRD was defined as d 0. The data analysis showed a significant difference in high active times between DIS and healthy control calves (CON), with CON showing more high active times on every day, except d −3. Diseased calves showed significantly more inactive times on d −4, −2, and 0, as well as longer lying times on d −5, −2, and +1. These results indicate the potential of the ACL to detect BRD prior to a clinical diagnosis in group-housed calves. Furthermore, in this study, we described the ‘normal’ behavior in 428 clinically healthy weaned dairy calves obtained by the ACL system.
Effect of Exogenous Enzymes Cocktail on Performance, Carcass Traits, Biochemical Metabolites, Intestinal Morphology, and Nutrient Digestibility of Broilers Fed Normal and Low-Energy Corn–Soybean Diets
Authors: Alqhtani Abdulmohsen H. , Al Sulaiman Ali R. , Alharthi Abdulrahman S. , Abudabos Alaeldein M.
Published: April 2022

Ross 308 broilers in a randomized complete block design with a 2 × 2 factorial treatment arrangement (four treatments with 12 replications of six chicks each) were fed corn and SBMbased diets with two concentrations of metabolizable energy (ME) (normal (positive control, PC) and low (negative control, NC)) and two amounts of enzyme cocktail (EC) (0% and 0.005%) for 35 days. Performance, carcass traits, serum metabolites, ileal histology, and apparent nutrient digestibility were evaluated. Compared with the non-supplemented diet, the use of EC improved feed conversion ratio (FCR) over 26–35 and 0–35 days (p < 0.01), European performance efficiency factor (EPEF) over 26–35 days (p < 0.05), dressing yield (p < 0.01), villus height (p < 0.05), nitrogen-corrected apparent ME (AMEn) (p < 0.01), and serum glucose (p < 0.05). Compared with the NC diet, feeding the PC diet improved FCR over all experimental periods (p < 0.01, p < 0.05, p < 0.05, and p < 0.01, respectively), EPEF over 0–10 days (p < 0.05), and AMEn retention (p < 0.01). To conclude, the AMEn of broilers fed corn and SBM diets could be improved by adequately adjusting dietary ME and using a cocktail of non-starch polysaccharide-degrading enzymes, improving commercial benefits to producers.
Cryptic Diversity of the European Blind Mole Rat Nannospalax leucodon Species Complex: Implications for Conservation
Authors: Bugarski-Stanojević Vanja , Stamenković Gorana , Jojić Vida , Ćosić Nada , Ćirović Duško , Stojković Oliver , Veličković Jelena , Savić Ivo
Published: April 2022

We explored the cryptic speciation of the Nannospalax leucodon species complex, characterised by intense karyotype evolution and reduced phenotypic variability that has produced different lineages, out of which 25 are described as chromosomal forms (CFs), so many cryptic species remain unnoticed. Although some of them should be classified as threatened, they lack the official nomenclature necessary to be involved in conservation strategies. Reproductive isolation between seven CFs has previously been demonstrated. To investigate the amount and dynamics of genetic discrepancy that follows chromosomal changes, infer speciation levels, and obtain phylogenetic patterns, we analysed mitochondrial 16S rRNA and MT-CYTB nucleotide polymorphism among 17 CFs—the highest number studied so far. Phylogenetic trees delineated 11 CFs as separate clades. Evolutionary divergence values overlapped with acknowledged higher taxonomic categories, or sometimes exceeded them. The fact that CFs with higher 2n are evolutionary older corresponds to the fusion hypothesis of Nannospalax karyotype evolution. To participate in conservation strategies, N. leucodon classification should follow the biological species concept, and proposed cryptic species should be formally named, despite a lack of classical morphometric discrepancy. We draw attention towards the syrmiensis and montanosyrmiensis CFs, estimated to be endangered/critically endangered, and emphasise the need for detailed monitoring and population survey for other cryptic species.
Surgical Antimicrobial Prophylaxis in Patients of Neonatal and Pediatric Age Subjected to Eye Surgery: A RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method Consensus Study
Authors: Bianchini Sonia , Morini Chiara , Nicoletti Laura , Monaco Sara , Rigotti Erika , Caminiti Caterina , Conti Giorgio , De Luca Maia , Donà Daniele , Maglietta Giuseppe , Lancella Laura , Lo Vecchio Andrea , Marchini Giorgio , Pietrasanta Carlo , Principi Nicola , Simonini Alessandro , Venturini Elisabetta , Longo Rosa , Gusson Elena , Boccuzzi Domenico , Vigo Luca , Mosca Fabio , Staiano Annamaria , Esposito Susanna ,   on Behalf of the Peri-Operative Prophylaxis in Neonatal and Paediatric Age (POP-NeoPed) Study Group
Published: April 2022

Ocular surgery encompasses a wide range of procedures, including surgery of the tear ducts, eyelid, cornea and conjunctiva, lens, ocular muscle, and vitreoretinal and iris surgery. Operations are also performed for the removal of tumors, repairs of ocular trauma and, finally, corneal transplantation. Antibiotic prophylaxis for the prevention of surgical site infections (SSIs) in ocular surgery is a complex field in which shared lines of action are absent. In light of the scarcity of shared evidence in the use of ocular antimicrobial prophylaxis for the pediatric population, this consensus document aims to provide clinicians with a series of recommendations on antimicrobial prophylaxis for patients of neonatal and pediatric age undergoing eye surgery. The following scenarios are considered: (1) intraocular surgery; (2) extraocular surgery; (3) ocular trauma; (4) ocular neoplasm; (5) ocular surface transplantations; (6) corneal grafts. This work has been made possible by the multidisciplinary contribution of experts belonging to the most important Italian scientific societies and represents, in our opinion, the most complete and up-to-date collection of recommendations regarding clinical actions in the peri-operative environment in eye surgery. The application of uniform and shared protocols aims to improve surgical practice, through the standardization of procedures, with a consequent reduction of SSIs, also limiting the phenomenon of antimicrobial resistance.
Does Chlorination Promote Antimicrobial Resistance in Waterborne Pathogens? Mechanistic Insight into Co-Resistance and Its Implication for Public Health
Authors: Adefisoye Martins A. , Olaniran Ademola O.
Published: April 2022

Chemical agents including chlorine and antibiotics are used extensively to control infectious microorganisms. While antibiotics are mainly used to treat bacterial infections, chlorine is widely used for microbial inactivation in the post-secondary disinfection steps of water treatment. The extensive use of these agents has been acknowledged as a driving force for the expansion of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and has prompted discourse on their roles in the evolution and proliferation of resistant pathogens in the aquatic milieus. We live in a possible “post-antibiotic” era when resistant microbes spread at startling levels with dire predictions relating to a potential lack of effective therapeutic antibacterial drugs. There have been reports of enhancement of resistance among some waterborne pathogens due to chlorination. In this context, it is pertinent to investigate the various factors and mechanisms underlying the emergence and spread of resistance and the possible association between chlorination and AMR. We, therefore, reflect on the specifics of bacterial resistance development, the mechanisms of intrinsic and acquired resistance with emphasis on their environmental and public health implications, the co-selection for antibiotic resistance due to chlorination, biofilm microbiology, and multidrug efflux activity. In-depth knowledge of the molecular basis of resistance development in bacteria will significantly contribute to the more rational utilization of these biocidal agents and aid in filling identified knowledge gap toward curbing resistance expansion.
Green Tea (Camellia sinensis) Products as Alternatives to Antibiotics in Poultry Nutrition: A Review
Authors: Mahlake Steve Kgotlelelo , Mnisi Caven Mguvane , Kumanda Cebisa , Mthiyane Doctor Mziwenkosi Nhlanhla , Montso Peter Kotsoana
Published: April 2022

The overuse and misuse of antibiotics in poultry feeds increase the total cost of production and compromise the quality of poultry products, which poses a serious threat to human health. Globally, health-conscious poultry consumers have long called for the alternate use of natural additives to mitigate the development and spread of multidrug resistant pathogens. Phytogenic plants, such as green tea (Camellia sinensis) products, contain putative nutraceuticals with antibiotic properties that can be used as alternatives to therapeutic, metaphylactic, prophylactic, and growth-promoting antibiotics. However, there are limited studies in the literature that have evaluated the potential of green tea (GT) products when used as replacements to in-feed antibiotics, with most studies focusing on their potential as sources of dietary nutrients in poultry feeds. Thus, this review paper discusses the potential of GT products to replace various antibiotics in poultry diets while presenting GT bioactive substances that can improve the growth performance, carcass and meat quality traits, and health status of the birds. We postulate that the utilisation of GT products in place of antibiotics could deliver sustainable, organic poultry production systems that would contribute significantly to global food and nutrition security.
Functional and Nutraceutical Significance of Amla (Phyllanthus emblica L.): A Review
Authors: Gul Maryam , Liu Zhi-Wei , Iahtisham-Ul-Haq  , Rabail Roshina , Faheem Fatima , Walayat Noman , Nawaz Asad , Shabbir Muhammad Asim , Munekata Paulo E. S. , Lorenzo José M. , Aadil Rana Muhammad
Published: April 2022

Phyllanthus emblica L. (also popularly known as amla) is a tree native to the India and Southeast Asia regions that produces fruits rich in bioactive compounds that could be explored as part of the increasing interest in naturally occurring compounds with biological activity. Thus, this review aims to highlight the nutritional aspects, rich phytochemistry and health-promoting effects of amla. Scientific evidence indicates that polyphenols are central components in fruits and other sections of the amla tree, as well as vitamin C. The rich composition of polyphenol and vitamin C imparts an important antioxidant activity along with important in vivo effects that include improved antioxidant status and activity of the endogenous antioxidant defense system. Other potential health benefits are the anti-hyperlipidemia and antidiabetic activities as well as the anticancer, anti-inflammatory, digestive tract and neurological protective activities. The promising results provided by the studies about amla bioactive compounds support their potential role in assisting the promotion of health and prevention of diseases.
Enzymatic Antioxidant Defense and Polymorphic Changes in Male Infertility
Authors: Baszyński Jędrzej , Kamiński Piotr , Bogdzińska Maria , Mroczkowski Sławomir , Szymański Marek , Wasilow Karolina , Stanek Emilia , Hołderna-Bona Karolina , Brodzka Sylwia , Bilski Rafał , Tkachenko Halyna , Kurhaluk Natalia , Stuczyński Tomasz , Lorek Małgorzata , Woźniak Alina
Published: April 2022

The intensification of oxidative stress and destabilization of the antioxidative defenses of an organism is a consequence of many environmental factors. We considered aspects conditioning male reproductive potential and the functionality of enzymatic antioxidative mechanisms, i.e., superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and glutathione reductase (GR), and their correlations with Li, Be, B, Na, Mg, Al, P, K, Ca, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Se, Sr, Mo, Ag, Cd, Sn, Sb, Ba, Hg, Tl, Pb, and malondialdehyde (MDA), as well as genetic polymorphism IL-4v.C589T (rs2243250) in men with infertility (n = 76). A healthy normozoospermic control (n = 87) was also used. We assessed the impact of negative changes driven by oxidative stress on enzymatic antioxidative mechanisms as well as the role of MDA in the overall process. On this basis, we infer connections between disturbances in enzymatic antioxidative defense and reproductive potential. Based on a molecular analysis of the polymorphism of gene IL-4v.C589T (rs2243250) (chromosome 5) (PCR-RFLP), we considered the relationships among particular genotypes with the possibility of occurrence of male infertility. Concentrations of chemical elements were measured in the blood. The activity of antioxidants and MDA levels were measured in serum. In the infertile group, higher GPx activity was noted (6.56 nmoL·min−1·mL−1, control: 4.31 nmoL·min−1·mL−1; p = 0.004), while GR achieved a greater level in the control (17.74 nmoL·min−1·mL−1, infertile: 15.97 nmoL·min−1·mL−1, p = 0.043), which implies diversified efficiency of the first and second lines of defense. The polymorphism of IL-4v.C589T (rs2243250) was not directly connected with infertility because there were not any differences in the frequency of genotypes between the infertile and control group (p = 0.578). An analysis of genotypes CC and TT (polymorphism IL-4v.C589T (rs2243250)) indicated numerous correlations between antioxidants, chemical elements and MDA. Therefore, chemical economy, antioxidative defense and genetic conditions are connected and jointly shape male reproductive potential. Chemical elements influence antioxidative defense and male fertility; the most important modulators appeared to be Na, Ba, Al and B. The polymorphism of gene IL-4v.C589T (rs2243250) has a limited influence on antioxidative defense and the metabolism of chemical elements.
Metabolic Profiling, Chemical Composition, Antioxidant Capacity, and In Vivo Hepato- and Nephroprotective Effects of Sonchus cornutus in Mice Exposed to Cisplatin
Authors: Elhady Sameh S. , Abdelhameed Reda F. A. , Mehanna Eman T. , Wahba Alaa Samir , Elfaky Mahmoud A. , Koshak Abdulrahman E. , Noor Ahmad O. , Bogari Hanin A. , Malatani Rania T. , Goda Marwa S.
Published: April 2022

Sonchus cornutus (Asteraceae) is a wild. edible plant that represents a plentiful source of polyphenolic compounds. For the first time, the metabolic analysis profiling demonstrated the presence of anthocyanidin glycosides, coumarins, flavonoids and their corresponding glycosides, and phenolic acids. The total phenolic compounds were determined to be 206.28 ± 14.64 mg gallic acid equivalent/gm, while flavonoids were determined to be 45.56 ± 1.78 mg quercetin equivalent/gm. The crude extract of S. cornutus exhibited a significant 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl free radical scavenging effect with half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 16.10 ± 2.14 µg/mL compared to ascorbic acid as a standard (10.64 ± 0.82 µg/mL). In vitro total antioxidant capacity and ferric reducing power capacity assays revealed a promising reducing potential of S. cornutus extract. Therefore, the possible protective effects of S. cornutus against hepatic and renal toxicity induced by cisplatin in experimental mice were investigated. S. cornutus significantly ameliorated the cisplatin-induced disturbances in liver and kidney functions and oxidative stress, decreased MDA, ROS, and NO levels, and restored CAT and SOD activities. Besides, it reversed cisplatin-driven upregulation in inflammatory markers, including iNOS, IL-6, and IL-1β levels and NF-κB and TNF-α expression, and elevated anti-inflammatory IL-10 levels and Nrf2 expression. Additionally, the extract mitigated cisplatin alteration in apoptotic (Bax and caspase-3) and anti-apoptotic (Bcl-2) proteins. Interestingly, hepatic, and renal histopathology revealed the protective impacts of S. cornutus against cisplatin-induced pathological changes. Our findings guarantee a protective effect of S. cornutus against cisplatin-induced hepatic and renal damage via modulating oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptotic pathways.
Antioxidant Metabolism Underlies Different Metabolic Strategies for Primary Root Growth Maintenance under Water Stress in Cotton and Maize
Authors: Kang Jian , Voothuluru Priyamvada , Hoyos-Miernyk Elizabeth , Alexander Danny , Oliver Melvin J. , Sharp Robert E.
Published: April 2022

The divergence of metabolic responses to water stress in the elongation zone of cotton and maize primary roots was investigated by establishing water-deficit conditions that generated steady root elongation at equivalent tissue water potentials. In water-stressed cotton roots, cell elongation was maintained in the apical 3 mm but was progressively inhibited with further displacement from the apex. These responses are similar to previous findings in maize, providing the foundation for comparisons of metabolic responses in regions of growth maintenance and inhibition between the species. Metabolomics analyses showed region-specific and species-specific changes in metabolite abundance in response to water stress, revealing both conserved responses including osmolyte accumulation, and key differences in antioxidative and sulfur metabolism. Quantitative assessment showed contrasting glutathione responses in the root elongation zone between the species, with glutathione levels declining in cotton as stress duration progressed, whereas in maize, glutathione levels remained elevated. Despite the lesser glutathione response in cotton, hydrogen peroxide levels were low in water-stressed cotton compared with maize roots and were associated with higher catalase, ascorbate peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase activities in cotton. The results indicate alternative metabolic strategies underlying the responses of primary root growth to water stress between cotton and maize.
The Relationship between F2-Isoprostanes Plasma Levels and Depression Symptoms in Healthy Older Adults
Authors: Savage Karen , Gogarty Lee , Lea Ana , Deleuil Saurenne , Nolidin Karen , Croft Kevin , Stough Con
Published: April 2022

The increasing proportion of older citizens in our society reflects a need to better understand age-related biological underpinnings of mood, as depression in older age may be under-diagnosed. Pre-clinical and human studies evidence a relationship between oxidative stress (OS) biomarkers in depression symptoms, and an influence of biological factors such as Body Mass Index (BMI), but focus has been clinical or younger samples, and less is known about patterns in healthy older adults. We investigated these associations with data derived from the Australian Research Council Longevity Study (ARCLI; ANZCTR12611000487910), in 568 healthy adults aged 60–75 years using F2-Isoprostanes plasma levels, and controlling for demographic factors, in assessing mood via the Beck Depression Inventory-II, Chalder Fatigue Scale, and General Health Questionnaire 12. Elevated F2-Isoprostanes contributed to depressed mood on the BDI-II and reduced general health on the GHQ-12. BMI was positively associated with Chalder Fatigue scores, yet better ratings on the GHQ-12. Females had significantly higher F2-Isoprostanes than males. The results suggest that in otherwise healthy older adults, mood and mental health are reduced with increases in oxidative stress markers, exhibiting similar patterns observed in clinical groups. Sex as a factor should be considered when assessing OS levels in systemic pathologies. BMI as a modifiable risk factor for maintenance of mental health, and OS modification through nutrient supplementation, are discussed. The findings contribute to understanding oxidative stress marker patterns in healthy older adults and their potential role in mood symptoms and mental health.
Apitherapy and Periodontal Disease: Insights into In Vitro, In Vivo, and Clinical Studies
Authors: Kumar Manoj , Prakash Suraj , Radha  , Lorenzo José M. , Chandran Deepak , Dhumal Sangram , Dey Abhijit , Senapathy Marisennayya , Rais Nadeem , Singh Surinder , Kalkreuter Phillip , Damale Rahul D. , Natta Suman , Vishvanathan Marthandan , Sathyaseelan Sangeetha Kizhakkumkara , Rajalingam Sureshkumar , Viswanathan Sabareeshwari , Murugesan Yasodha , Muthukumar Muthamilselvan , Jayaraman Aravind , Kalirajan Murugasridevi , Selim Samy , Amarowicz Ryszard , Mekhemar Mohamed
Published: April 2022

Periodontal diseases are caused mainly by inflammation of the gums and bones surrounding the teeth or by dysbiosis of the oral microbiome, and the Global Burden of Disease study (2019) reported that periodontal disease affects 20–50% of the global population. In recent years, more preference has been given to natural therapies compared to synthetic drugs in the treatment of periodontal disease, and several oral care products, such as toothpaste, mouthwash, and dentifrices, have been developed comprising honeybee products, such as propolis, honey, royal jelly, and purified bee venom. In this study, we systematically reviewed the literature on the treatment of periodontitis using honeybee products. A literature search was performed using various databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, Scopus, clinicaltrials.gov, and Google Scholar. A total of 31 studies were reviewed using eligibility criteria published between January 2016 and December 2021. In vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies (randomized clinical trials) were included. Based on the results of these studies, honeybee products, such as propolis and purified bee venom, were concluded to be effective and safe for use in the treatment of periodontitis mainly due to their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities. However, to obtain reliable results from randomized clinical trials assessing the effectiveness of honeybee products in periodontal treatment with long-term follow-up, a broader sample size and assessment of various clinical parameters are needed.
Oxidative Stress and Inflammation as Targets for Novel Preventive and Therapeutic Approaches in Non-Communicable Diseases II
Authors: Nediani Chiara , Dinu Monica
Published: April 2022

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are non-infectious chronic pathologies—including obesity, metabolic syndrome, chronic kidney disease (CKD), cardiovascular (CV) diseases, cancer, and chronic respiratory diseases—which represent the main cause of death and disability for the general population [...]
Horned Melon Pulp, Peel, and Seed: New Insight into Phytochemical and Biological Properties
Authors: Šovljanski Olja , Šeregelj Vanja , Pezo Lato , Tumbas Šaponjac Vesna , Vulić Jelena , Cvanić Teodora , Markov Siniša , Ćetković Gordana , Čanadanović-Brunet Jasna
Published: April 2022

Artificial neural intelligence was established for the estimation, prediction, and optimization of many agricultural and food processes to enable enhanced and balanced utilization of fresh and processed fruits. The predictive capabilities of artificial neural networks (ANNs) are evaluated to estimate the phytochemical composition and the antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of horned melon (Cucumis metuliferus) pulp, peel, and seed. Using multiobjective optimization, the main goals were successively achieved through analysis of antimicrobial potential against sensitive microorganisms for peel (Bacillus cereus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Aspergillus brasiliensis, and Penicillium aurantiogriseum), pulp (Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serotype Typhimurium), and seed samples (Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Candida albicans), and its connection with phytochemical and nutritional composition and antioxidant activity. The highly potent extracts were obtained from peels which represent a waste part with strong antioxidant and antifungal capacity. Briefly, the calculated inhibition zone minimums for sensitive microorganisms were 25.3–30.7 mm, while the optimal results achieved with carotenoids, phenolics, vitamin C, proteins, lipids, DPPH, ABTS, and RP were: 332.01 mg β-car/100 g, 1923.52 mg GAE/100 g, 928.15 mg/100 g, 5.73 g/100 g, 2.3 g/100 g, 226.56 μmol TE/100 g, 8042.55 μmol TE/100 g, and 7526.36 μmol TE/100 g, respectively. These results imply the possibility of using horned melon peel extract as an antioxidant and antifungal agent for food safety and quality.
Prediction of Machine Failure in Industry 4.0: A Hybrid CNN-LSTM Framework
Authors: Wahid Abdul , Breslin John G. , Intizar Muhammad Ali
Published: April 2022

The proliferation of sensing technologies such as sensors has resulted in vast amounts of time-series data being produced by machines in industrial plants and factories. There is much information available that can be used to predict machine breakdown and degradation in a given factory. The downtime of industrial equipment accounts for heavy losses in revenue that can be reduced by making accurate failure predictions using the sensor data. Internet of Things (IoT) technologies have made it possible to collect sensor data in real time. We found that hybrid modelling can result in efficient predictions as they are capable of capturing the abstract features which facilitate better predictions. In addition, developing effective optimization strategy is difficult because of the complex nature of different sensor data in real time scenarios. This work proposes a method for multivariate time-series forecasting for predictive maintenance (PdM) based on a combination of convolutional neural networks and long short term memory with skip connection (CNN-LSTM). We experiment with CNN, LSTM, and CNN-LSTM forecasting models one by one for the prediction of machine failures. The data used in this experiment are from Microsoft’s case study. The dataset provides information about the failure history, maintenance history, error conditions, and machine features and telemetry, which consists of information such as voltage, pressure, vibration, and rotation sensor values recorded between 2015 and 2016. The proposed hybrid CNN-LSTM framework is a two-stage end-to-end model in which the LSTM is leveraged to analyze the relationships among different time-series data variables through its memory function, and 1-D CNNs are responsible for effective extraction of high-level features from the data. Our method learns the long-term patterns of the time series by extracting the short-term dependency patterns of different time-series variables. In our evaluation, CNN-LSTM provided the most reliable and highest prediction accuracy.
Characterizing Micro-Displacements on Active Faults in the Gobi Desert with Time-Series InSAR
Authors: Wang Zixiao , Lawrence James , Ghail Richard , Mason Philippa , Carpenter Anthony , Agar Stewart , Morgan Tom
Published: April 2022

This research investigates small-scale tectonic activity in the Jiujing region in Beishan, northwest China through the application of persistent scatterer (PS) Interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR). PS InSAR is an effective monitoring tool in this unpopulated, arid, and unvegetated rural area, whose surface geology is dominated by a single large granitic intrusion, and which represents a candidate site for a geological disposal facility (GDF) for high-level radioactive waste (HLW) in China. This research demonstrates that faults F16-2, F17, F18, and F20-2 are still active, producing dip-slip motions along the fault planes. The lithological variations in weathering and erosion can be discounted as the cause for these small-scale displacement variations. The work has also identified 11 previously unknown faults, characterising them from vertical (DU) and eastward horizontal (DE) displacements along and across the faults. These newly discovered structures demonstrate how PS InSAR can be used to monitor and measure micro-scale movements on regional-scale faults, which, in many cases, were previously considered to be inactive. Thus, this also improves our understanding of local stress regimes in this area. The Jiujing region is part of a convergent fault zone dominated by NE-SW compression, leading to NE-SW crustal shortening and NW-SE elongation. Through determination of the sense of ground movement measured at irregularly distributed PS points, some faults are reverse and trending NW-SE, while others are normal and trending NE-SW, highlighting how InSAR can be used to resolve fault type and relative movements to monitor tectonic fault blocks at a regional scale.
Surface Displacement and Source Parameters of the 2021 Bandar-e Genaveh, Iran, Earthquake Determined from InSAR Observations
Authors: Golshadi Zeinab , Famiglietti Nicola Angelo , Atzori Simone , Vicari Annamaria
Published: April 2022

On 18 April 2021, a MW 5.8 earthquake occurred near the city of Bandar-e Genaveh, southwestern Iran. Four synthetic aperture radar (SAR) images, acquired from Sentinel-1 (ESA Copernicus project) satellites in ascending and descending orbits, were used to get two displacement maps, catching the surface co-seismic effects through the two-pass InSAR technique. Modeling the deformation patterns using equations for a shear dislocation in elastic half-space allowed the source parameters and the slip distribution of the seismogenic source to be determined. We calculated that the rupture occurred on a reverse fault extending NW-SE, gently dipping NE and with a maximum slip reaching about 1 m. The northeast and low-dip angle of this fault are also consistent with the tectonics of the region, which is subject to deformation and shortening along the northern margin of the Arabian plate. Our estimations of the fault parameters agree with the Zagros Foredeep reverse fault. We additionally processed four other SAR images to investigate the possibility that the Mw 5.0 aftershock, which occurred about one month later, induced surface effects visible with InSAR. This analysis, however, did not provide any clear conclusions.
Dynamic Characteristics Test and Simplified Calculation Model of Concealed Frame Panel Element
Authors: Zhang Xichen , Xiang Changxin , Pan Danguang , Fu Xiangqiu , Tan Shiyou
Published: April 2022

Hidden frame glass curtain walls are one of the most common curtain wall structure forms. This year, the damage identification of panel elements based on vibration has had the problem of an inconsistent calculation model. In this paper, an experimental study on the dynamic characteristics of two full-scale panel elements is carried out, and the main factors affecting the dynamic characteristics of panel elements are analyzed by using a fine finite element model, and the corresponding simplified calculation model is proposed. The experimental and numerical results show that the structural sealant and frame are the important factors affecting the dynamic characteristics of panel units of hidden frame, and the natural frequency of panel elements can be overestimated by more than 40% if a simply supported boundary is adopted. The effect of structural sealant on glass panels and the supporting frame is mainly a translational constraint. The effect of structural sealant on the rotational constraint of a glass panel can be neglected and simplified as a translational spring model. Using a shell element, a translational spring element and a beam element, respectively, the calculation error of the glass panel, structural sealant and supporting frame is about 5%, which shows good calculation accuracy.
Beyond the Dilemmas: Design of PLA-PEG Assemblies Based on pH-Reversible Boronic Ester for the Synchronous PEG De-Shielding and Ligand Presentation to Hepatocytes
Authors: Sardo Carla , Tommasino Carmela , Auriemma Giulia , Esposito Tiziana , Aquino Rita Patrizia
Published: April 2022

A new polymeric construct is proposed as a starting material for a liver-targeted delivery system in the present communication. The polymeric material has been designed to be sensitive to pH variations and potentially loaded with hydrophobic antitumoral agents. It is based on one of the most used copolymers in the field of nanomedicine: PEG-PLA. The latter, usually obtained by polymerization of lactic acid on the hydroxyl-terminated polyether, is assembled by the pH-reversible condensation between a phenylboronic acid-ended methoxy PEG 2000 (MeO-PEG2000-PBA) and a galactose-capped PLA of 1–10 kDa (PLA-Gal). Our approach is based on the strategic assumption that would allow a new ligand presentation strategy in which Gal is both a structural element for the stimulus-responsive PEG de-shielding and the targeting moiety. Indeed, Gal has a vicinal diol able to form a reversible boronate ester with a B(OH) 2 residue, which is cleavable at the acidic pH of the tumor microenvironment, and it is also recognized by the asialoglycoprotein receptor, which is hyper-expressed on the membrane of hepatocytes. The functionalization of the two blocks is presented here, and they are characterized using NMR, FTIR, and GPC. The analytical evaluation of the ability of the boronated PEG and Gal to condense in a pH sensible way completes the study.
An Integrated Photorefractive Analog Matrix-Vector Multiplier for Machine Learning
Authors: Vlieg Elger A. , Talandier Lucas , Dangel Roger , Horst Folkert , Offrein Bert J.
Published: April 2022

AI is fueling explosive growth in compute demand that traditional digital chip architectures cannot keep up with. Analog crossbar arrays enable power efficient synaptic signal processing with linear scaling on neural network size. We present a photonic photorefractive crossbar array for neural network training and inference on local analog memory. We discuss the concept and present results based on the first prototype hardware.
Tea Infusions as a Source of Phenolic Compounds in the Human Diet
Authors: Klepacka Joanna
Published: April 2022

Phenolic compounds are components with proven beneficial effects on the human body, primarily due to their antioxidant activity. In view of the high consumption of tea and the numerous factors that affect the nutritional value of its infusions, the aim of this study was to identify the effects of tea type and duration of leaf extraction with water on the levels of phenolic compounds and other components that determine biological activity (oxalates, Ca, Na, Cu, and Mn). Based on assays, infusions of red tea prepared for 20 min were found to be the best source of phenolics (202.9 mg/100 mL), whereas the lowest level of these compounds was determined in infusions of black tea extracted from leaves for 30 min (46.9 mg/100 mL). The highest degree of increase in polyphenol content (by approx. 50%) was noted in red and green tea infused for between 10 and 20 min, whereas for black tea, polyphenol levels decreased with time. The biological activity of tea infusions appears to be determined to the greatest extent by the interactions between phenolic compounds and oxalates (r = 0.6209), calcium (r = 0.8516), and sodium (0.8045). A daily intake of three to four mugs (1 L) of tea infusions provides the human body the entire amount of phenolics recommended for health reasons (as regards red tea, this is possible at 1/3 of the volume) and covers the daily requirement for manganese, as well as (partially) copper.
An Efficient Parallel Implementation of the Runge–Kutta Discontinuous Galerkin Method with Weighted Essentially Non-Oscillatory Limiters on Three-Dimensional Unstructured Meshes
Authors: Pei Weicheng , Jiang Yuyan , Li Shu
Published: April 2022

In computational fluid dynamics, high-order solvers suitable for three-dimensional unstructured meshes are attractive but are less developed than other methods. In this article, we provide the formulation and a parallel implementation of the Runge–Kutta discontinuous Galerkin finite element method with weighted essentially non-oscillatory limiters, which are compact and effective for suppressing numerical oscillations near discontinuities. In our experiments, high-order solvers do outperform their low-order counterparts in accuracy and the efficient parallel implementation makes the time cost affordable for large problems. Such high-order parallel solvers are efficient tools for solving conservative laws including the Euler system that models inviscid compressible flows.
Efficacy of Transistor Interleaving in DICE Flip-Flops at a 22 nm FD SOI Technology Node
Authors: Elash Christopher J. , Li Zongru , Jin Chen , Chen Li , Xing Jiesi , Yang Zhiwu , Shi Shuting
Published: April 2022

Fully Depleted Silicon on Insulator (FD SOI) technology nodes provide better resistance to single event upsets than comparable bulk technologies, but upsets are still likely to occur at nano-scale feature sizes, and additional hardening techniques should be explored. Three flip-flop designs were implemented using Dual Interlocked Cell (DICE) latches in a 22 m FD SOI technology node. Additional hardening was implemented in the layout of each design by using transistor spacing and interleaving. Comparisons were made between a standard DICE design and two other designs making use of the new Continuous Active (CnRx) Diffusion construct and guard-gate transistor stacking through alpha particle and heavy ion irradiation. Designs making use of the CnRx construct for performance improvements were more likely to experience upsets due to higher collected charges in the increased diffusion regions. Conversely, transistor stacking showed strong soft error rate resilience because of the natural isolation between transistors in the FD SOI technology. Overall, the efficacy of transistor interleaving in flip-flops using DICE latches was found to be extremely robust in the 22 nm FD SOI technology node.