bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nitrogen and phosphorus additions alter soil N transformations in a Metasequoia glyptostroboides plantation
Authors: Zhang Youzheng , Jiang Pengcheng , Guo Yaolin , Wu Ming , Shao Xuexin , Xu Hengtao , Wu Tonggui , Yuan Wenwen , Li Niu
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) enrichment due to anthropogenic activities can significantly affect soil N transformations in forest ecosystems. However, the effects of N and P additions on nitrification and denitrification processes in Metasequoia glyptostroboides plantations, and economically important forest type in China, remain poorly understood.

Methods

This study investigated the responses of soil nitrification and denitrification rates, as well as the abundances of nitrifiers and denitrifiers, to different levels of N and P additions in a 6-year nutrient addition experiment in a M. glyptostroboides plantation.

Results

Stepwise multiple regression analysis was used to identify the main predictors of nitrification and denitrification rates. The results showed that moderate N addition (N2 treatment, 2.4 mol·m-2) stimulated nitrification rates and abundances of ammonia-oxidizing archaea (AOA) and bacteria (AOB), while excessive N and P additions inhibited denitrification rates and reduced the abundance of nirS-type denitrifiers. AOB abundance was the main predictor of nitrification rates under N additions, whereas microbial biomass carbon and nirS gene abundance were the key factors controlling denitrification rates. Under P additions, tree growth parameters (diameter at breast height and crown base height) and AOB abundance were the primary predictors of nitrification and denitrification rates.

Discussion

Our study reveals complex interactions among nutrient inputs, plant growth, soil properties, and microbial communities in regulating soil N transformations in plantation forests. This study also offers valuable insights for formulating effective nutrient management strategies to enhance the growth and health of M. glyptostroboides plantations under scenarios of increasing elevated nutrient deposition.
Parallel evolution of methyltransferases leads to vobasine biosynthesis in Tabernaemontana elegans and Catharanthus roseus
Authors: Farzana Maisha , Richardson Matthew Bailey , Deschênes Daniel André Ramey , Mai Zhan , Njoku Destiny Ichechi , Deslongchamps Ghislain , Qu Yang
Published: August 2024

Monoterpenoid indole alkaloids (MIA) are one of the largest and most complex alkaloid class in nature, boasting many clinically significant drugs such as anticancer vinblastine and antiarrhythmic ajmaline. Many MIAs undergo nitrogen N-methylation, altering their reactivity and affinity to the biological targets through a straightforward reaction. Remarkably, all known MIA N-methyltransferases (NMT) originate from the neofunctionalization of ancestral γ-tocopherol C-methyltransferases (γTMTs), a phenomenon seemingly unique to the Apocynaceae family. In this study, we unveil and characterize a new γTMT-like enzyme from the plant Tabernaemontana elegans (toad tree): perivine Nβ-methyltransferase (TePeNMT). TePeNMT and other homologs form a distinct clade in our phylogenetic study, setting them apart from other γTMTs and γTMT-like NMTs discovered to date. Enzyme kinetic experiments and enzyme homology modeling studies reveal the significant differences in enzyme active sites between TePeNMT and CrPeNMT, a previously characterized perivine Nβ-methyltransferase from Catharanthus roseus (Madagascar periwinkle). Collectively, our findings suggest that parallel evolution of ancestral γTMTs may be responsible for the occurrence of perivine N-methylation in T. elegans and C. roseus.
Can sensory and semantic priming enhance the effects of guided self-compassion meditation? A proof-of-concept study
Authors: Buric Ivana , Wrzesien Maja , Milojičić Jelica , Ridderinkhof Anna , De Bruin Esther , Bögels Susan
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Self-compassion is a fundamental aspect of psychological health and well-being that can be cultivated through self-compassion meditations, but it remains unclear how to facilitate this most effectively. This study is the first to explore whether sensory and semantic priming introduced prior to a guided self-compassion meditation could enhance the effects of meditation in comparison with a control condition.

Methods

The study was conducted with 3 × 3 repeated measures between-group design, including three groups (sensory priming, semantic priming and control group), and three assessment time points of state self-compassion, self-criticism, and positive and negative affect (at baseline, after priming, and after guided meditation). Additionally, a meditation appeal questionnaire was used. The total sample size included 71 students who underwent a 3-min priming intervention followed by a 15-min self-compassion guided meditation session.

Results

First, prior to guided meditation, sensory priming significantly decreased state self-criticism more than the control condition or semantic priming, although some reliability issues of the applied self-criticism scale must be taken into consideration. Second, neither sensory nor semantic priming changed state self-compassion, positive affect or negative affect. Third, neither semantic nor sensory priming significantly enhanced the effects of guided self-compassion meditation either in positive and negative affect, self-compassion states, self-criticism states, or in the appeal of the meditation experience.

Discussion

Although this study is underpowered (estimated post hoc power ranges from 0.20 to 0.42), the findings provide preliminary insights into the potential priming has as a tool to enhance meditation effects and provide guidelines for future studies.
The role of attentional control in moderating attentional bias towards game-related stimuli in individuals with a high tendency for internet gaming addiction
Authors: Heo Yea-Ji , Lee Gi-Eun , Lee Jang-Han
Published: August 2024

Background

The aim of this study was to elucidate individual difference factors that modulate the attentional processing of game stimuli to explain the heterogeneity of extant findings. The current study examined whether individual differences in components of attentional control (AC-shifting and AC-focusing) moderated the link between internet gaming addiction symptom and attentional engagement to and disengagement biases from game-relevant cues.

Methods

A total of 75 male undergraduate students who have played League of Legend (LOL) for more than 2 years completed well-established self-report questionnaires of internet gaming disorder symptoms and attentional control. The attentional bias toward game stimuli was measured for attentional engagement and disengagement using the attentional response to the distal vs. proximal emotional information (ARDPEI) task.

Results

The results revealed that attentional control was a significant moderator of the relationship between internet game addiction symptoms and attentional disengagement bias. Further analyses revealed a positive relationship between internet game addiction symptoms and attentional disengagement bias only among those with low levels of AC-shifting ability. Contrary to our expectations, AC-shifting also moderated the relationship between internet gaming disorder and attentional engagement bias. The positive relationship between internet game addiction symptoms and attentional engagement bias only appeared among those with low levels of AC-shifting ability. Individual differences in AC-focusing did not moderate the relationship between internet gaming disorder and any attentional bias.

Conclusion

This study confirmed that the greater the symptoms of game addiction, the stronger the attentional bias, especially in individuals with low AC-shifting ability. Therefore, it is necessary to examine sub-factors of AC in understanding the nature of attentional bias mechanisms in the development of internet game addiction and consider it as a psychological intervention to improve attentional bias.
Future scenarios of palliative care in health system of Iran: a multi-method study
Authors: Barasteh Salman , Parandeh Akram , Rassouli Maryam , Zaboli Rohallah , Vahedian Azimi Amir , Khaghanizadeh Morteza
Published: August 2024

Background

Paying attention to palliative care has accelerated in Iran in the last 10 years. Considering the trend of aging, increasing burden of chronic diseases and increasing health costs, planning and development of palliative care is necessary in the future. This study was conducted with the aim of explaining the alternative scenarios of palliative care in the health system of Iran until the horizon of 2030.

Methods

This study was a multi-method scenario planning with a qualitative using multiple methods design, which was conducted in 3 phases in 2018–2020. In the first phase, a list of driving forces was extracted using qualitative interviews and literature review. In the second phase, all factors identified in the previous phase were examined in terms of degree of uncertainty and cross-impact analysis, and two key uncertainties were extracted. In the third phase, based on two key uncertainties, four future scenarios of palliative care were formulated, validated and scenario strategies were presented.

Results

The results indicate two uncertainties, including “governance of palliative care in the health system” and “acceptance of palliative care by society,” based on which, four scenarios with the names “climbing to the top,” “excruciating climb,” “edge of the abyss” and “The bottom of the valley” were compiled.

Conclusion

The development of palliative care in health system of Iran is faced with serious uncertainties that it is necessary to focus the developmental activities of palliative care on the two axes of acceptance by society and need for coherent governance by considering all the dimensions and influential components by ministry of health. The application of the results of this research can provide reasonable options for effective interventions and implementation of this category of services to the beneficiaries of palliative care.
Combining large language models with enterprise knowledge graphs: a perspective on enhanced natural language understanding
Authors: Mariotti Luca , Guidetti Veronica , Mandreoli Federica , Belli Andrea , Lombardi Paolo
Published: August 2024

Knowledge Graphs (KGs) have revolutionized knowledge representation, enabling a graph-structured framework where entities and their interrelations are systematically organized. Since their inception, KGs have significantly enhanced various knowledge-aware applications, including recommendation systems and question-answering systems. Sensigrafo, an enterprise KG developed by Expert.AI, exemplifies this advancement by focusing on Natural Language Understanding through a machine-oriented lexicon representation. Despite the progress, maintaining and enriching KGs remains a challenge, often requiring manual efforts. Recent developments in Large Language Models (LLMs) offer promising solutions for KG enrichment (KGE) by leveraging their ability to understand natural language. In this article, we discuss the state-of-the-art LLM-based techniques for KGE and show the challenges associated with automating and deploying these processes in an industrial setup. We then propose our perspective on overcoming problems associated with data quality and scarcity, economic viability, privacy issues, language evolution, and the need to automate the KGE process while maintaining high accuracy.
Recent advances in foodborne pathogen detection using photoelectrochemical biosensors: from photoactive material to sensing strategy
Authors: Dong Xiuxiu , Huang Ao , He Lilong , Cai Chaoyang , You Tianyan
Published: August 2024

Rapid assessment and prevention of diseases caused by foodborne pathogens is one of the existing food safety regulatory issues faced by various countries, and it has received wide attention from all sectors of society. When the content of foodborne pathogens in food is higher than the limit standard and spreads in a certain way, it can cause disease outbreaks, which seriously threaten human health or life safety. Developing a novel method to detect foodborne pathogens accurately and rapidly is significant. Because of the limitations of complex steps, time-consuming, low sensitivity or poor selectivity of commonly used methods, a photoelectrochemical (PEC) biosensor based on electrochemistry is developed. Its advantages include a low background signal, fast response and simple operation. It also has broad application prospects for sensing, which has attracted wide attention. However, an organized summary of the latest PEC biosensors for foodborne pathogen sensing has not been reported. Therefore, this review introduces the recent advances in foodborne pathogen detection using PEC biosensors as follows: (i) the construction of PEC biosensors, (ii) the research status of PEC biosensors for the detection of foodborne pathogens and (iii) the direction of future development in this field. Hopefully, the study will provide some insight into developing more mature bio-sensing strategies to meet the practical needs of foodborne pathogen surveillance.
Determinants of Mental Health Inequalities Among People With Selected Citizenships in Germany
Authors: Blume Miriam , Bartig Susanne , Wollgast Lina , Koschollek Carmen , Kajikhina Katja , Bug Marleen , Hapke Ulfert , Hövener Claudia
Published: August 2024

Objectives

Mental health is essential for overall health and is influenced by different social determinants. The aim of this paper was to examine which determinants are associated with mental health inequalities among people with selected citizenships in Germany.

Methods

Data were derived from the multilingual interview survey “German Health Update: Fokus (GEDA Fokus)” among adults with Croatian, Italian, Polish, Syrian, or Turkish citizenship (11/2021–05/2022). Poisson regressions were used to calculate prevalence ratios for symptoms of depression (PHQ-9) and anxiety disorder (GAD-7).

Results

Sociodemographic (sex, income, age, household size) and psychosocial (social support and self-reported discrimination) determinants were associated with symptoms of depression and/or anxiety disorder. The prevalence of mental disorders varied most by self-reported discrimination.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest mental health inequalities among people with selected citizenships living in Germany. To reduce these, social inequities and everyday discrimination need to be addressed in structural prevention measures as well as in interventions on the communal level. Protective factors (e.g., social support) are also important to reduce mental health inequalities on the individual and community level.
Characterization of Friction within a Novel 3 mm Wristed Robotic Instrument
Authors: Ho Caitlin , Looi Thomas , Maguire Glenn , Podolsky Dale J.
Published: August 2024

Surgical robotic tools are being developed for a variety of surgical procedures that are executed within small workspaces. Novel designs of miniaturized cable-actuated surgical tools for cleft palate repair have previously been developed. However, the behavior and significance of friction within these tools are largely unknown. A study was conducted to investigate the friction in a pulleyless 3 mm diameter wristed instrument. The wrist utilizes cable guide channels that allow for miniaturization at the cost of increased friction. An experimental rig was developed to measure friction within the wrist link mechanism when the tool is positioned at various pitch angles. A strong relationship between the cable tension and the tool’s pitch angle was found as a result of friction. The cable tension increased as the pitch angle approached extreme values (percent increases in the cable tension of 33% and 67.3% at a pitch of 90° and −90°, respectively). However, the resultant cable tension was below the failure strength of the cable, indicating that the design is feasible. The results of this study would be useful to those considering the design of miniature robotic surgical tools that are cable-driven. Significant tool reduction can be achieved by employing static guide channels for the cables, forgoing the use of additional moving components like pulleys while maintaining cable tension well within its break strength. Future work in the design and optimization of novel miniaturized wrist mechanisms should consider frictional effects and their impact on mechanism function.
Research on Cloud-Edge-Device Collaborative Intelligent Monitoring System of Grinding Wheel Wear State for High-Speed Cylindrical Grinding of Bearing Rings
Authors: Zhuo Rongjin , Deng Zhaohui , Ge Jimin , Liu Wei , Lv Lishu , Yan Can
Published: August 2024

Aiming at the problems of grinding wheel wear during high-speed cylindrical grinding, communication delays, and slow response during data acquisition, processing, and system operation, an intelligent online monitoring technology frame for CNC manufacturing units is proposed, incorporating a real-time-perception grinding mechanism and a cloud-edge device. Based on the grinding data and grinding wheel wear mechanism, a monitoring model using multi-sensor information fusion is constructed to assess the grinding wheel wear state. In addition, edge data acquisition and online monitoring software have been developed to improve the speed of data transmission and processing. Finally, based on the proposed framework, a cloud-edge device collaborative intelligent monitoring system for assessing grinding wheel wear during high-speed cylindrical grinding of bearing rings is constructed. It improves the grinding quality and efficiency, reduces the grinding cost, and incorporates remote control functionality.
Free Gossypol Removal and Nutritional Value Enhancement of Cottonseed Meal via Solid-State Fermentation with Rhodotorula mucilaginosa TG529
Authors: Liu Bifan , Liu Huanyu , Liu Daohe , Zhou Miao , Jiang Qian , Ma Xiaokang , Wang Jing , Tan Bi’e , Zhang Chen
Published: August 2024

The presence of free gossypol (FG) in cottonseed meal (CSM) greatly limits the use of CSM as a high-quality protein feed. Microbial fermentation is an effective method to simultaneously reduce FG and improve the nutritional value of CSM. In this study, using potato dextrose agar containing acetic gossypol as a selective medium and humus soil from cotton fields as the source, we isolated six strains of fungi capable of tolerating FG. With an inoculation ratio of 8% (8 mL × 106 CFU/mL cells or spores in 100 g fermented CSM), 50% moisture content, and a temperature of 30 °C, CSM was fermented for 5 days. The results showed that strain F had the highest FG removal rate at 56.43%, which was identified as Rhodotorula mucilaginosa (R. mucilaginosa) and named R. mucilaginosa TG529. Further optimization revealed that when the fermentation time was extended to 11 days, TG529 achieved a maximum FG removal rate of 73.29%. Compared to the original sample, treatment with TG529 significantly increased the contents of crude protein, acid-soluble protein, and 18 amino acids, while significantly reducing the contents of crude fiber, neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber in fermented cottonseed meal (FCSM). Using atmospheric and room temperature plasma for mutagenesis of TG529, it was found that the mutated TG529 significantly increased the contents of acid-soluble protein and phenylalanine in FCSM, significantly reduced the NDF content, and enhanced the FG removal rate to 76.50%. In summary, this study screened and mutagenized a strain of FG detoxifying fungus, R. mucilagnosa TG529, which can effectively reduce the FG content and improve the nutritional value of CSM by solid-state fermentation.
Assessing Yield, Biomass Production, and Forage Quality of Red Clover (Trifolium pratense L.) in Agroforestry System: One-Year Study in Szarvas, Hungary
Authors: Dlamini Zibuyile , Jancsó Mihály , Székely Árpád , Kolozsvári Ildikó , Túri Norbert , Bakti Beatrix , Zalai Mihály , Kun Ágnes
Published: August 2024

This study examines the impact of line spacing (X: 24 m, Y: 9 m, Z: 6.5 m) and orientation to tree lines on the growth, yield, and quality of red clover (Trifolium pratense L.) in a temperate, irrigated agroforestry system (2 ha) in Szarvas, Hungary. Three sampling locations were distinguished between the east and west oriented tree lines: the north (N) side, middle (M) strip, and south (S) side of the tree lines. The highest red clovers were observed in the 6.5 m spacing (mean height 69.3 ± 7.2 cm), although yields were similar across 24 m, 9 m, and 6.5 m spacings (2.9 t ha−1, 2.3 t ha−1, and 2.7 t ha−1 dry matter, respectively). Orientation significantly influenced all forage quality parameters, with the north side showing earlier developmental stages and higher proportions of immature flowers (41–59%). Managing the spatial arrangement of red clover in agroforestry systems can help optimize forage quality by mitigating variations in plant maturity.
Genetic Evaluation of Kazakhstani Potato Germplasm for Pathogen and Pest Resistance Using DNA Markers
Authors: Adilbayeva Kamila , Moisseyev Ruslan , Kolchenko Mariya , Kenzhebekova Roza , Khassanov Vadim , Beisembina Bibigul , Azhimakhan Moldir , Tokbergenova Zhursinkul , Sharipova Dinara , Krasavin Valeriy , Pozharskiy Alexandr , Gritsenko Dilyara
Published: August 2024

Potato is one of the most consumed crops worldwide. One strategy aimed at pathogen and pest management is the cultivation of resistant varieties. In this study, 352 genotypes from the Kazakhstan potato germplasm collection were screened for the presence of loci for resistance to the most harmful pathogens and pests using 30 DNA markers. ‘Rucheek’ and ‘Spiridon’, among the top global varieties, and ‘Janaisan’ and ‘Fedor’, among the top local varieties, were identified as bearing the most resistance loci in the collection, with at least 14 markers each. The specimens carrying the genes Ryadg (ADG1, ADG2), Nb (SPUD237), Ns (SC811, CP16), Rpi-phu1 (GP94), and GroV1 (X02), which demonstrate confirmed resistance to PVY, PVA, PVX, PVS, Phytophthora infestans, and Globodera rostochiensis, were most frequently found in the collection. Loci for resistance to Synchytrium endobioticum and Globodera pallida were less introgressed into the Kazakhstani cultivars and were almost absent in the germplasm collection. The less abundant loci found in the current potato collection were Ryadg (RysC3), Gro1-4 (Gro1-4), and Rladg (RGASC850). Screening of the potato collection showed that the markers SPUD237, CP60, 45/X1, and CT214 generated additional polymorphic amplicons, while markers Nl25, C237, GP179, and GP122718 were less applicable in robust large-scale screening. The results from this study may greatly contribute to marker-assisted selection and gene pyramiding strategies aimed at developing new potato varieties with multiple resistance to biotic stress
YOLOv8n-CSE: A Model for Detecting Litchi in Nighttime Environments
Authors: Cao Hao , Zhang Gengming , Zhao Anbang , Wang Quanchao , Zou Xiangjun , Wang Hongjun
Published: August 2024

The accurate detection of litchi fruit cluster is the key technology of litchi picking robot. In the natural environment during the day, due to the unstable light intensity, uncertain light angle, background clutter and other factors, the identification and positioning accuracy of litchi fruit cluster is greatly affected. Therefore, we proposed a method to detect litchi fruit cluster in the night environment. The use of artificial light source and fixed angle can effectively improve the identification and positioning accuracy of litchi fruit cluster. In view of the weak light intensity and reduced image features in the nighttime environment, we proposed the YOLOv8n-CSE model. The model improves the recognition of litchi clusters in night environment. Specifically, we use YOLOv8n as the initial model, and introduce the CPA-Enhancer module with chain thinking prompt mechanism in the neck part of the model, so that the network can alleviate problems such as image feature degradation in the night environment. In addition, the VoVGSCSP design pattern in Slimneck was adopted for the neck part, which made the model more lightweight. The multi-scale linear attention mechanism and the EfficientViT module, which can be deeply divided, further improved the detection accuracy and detection rate of YOLOv8n-CSE. The experimental results show that the proposed YOLOv8n-CSE model can not only recognize litchi clusters in the night scene, but also has a significant improvement over previous models. In mAP@0.5 and F1, YOLOv8n-CSE achieved 98.86% and 95.54% respectively. Compared with the original YOLOv8n, RT-DETR-l and YOLOv10n, mAP@0.5 is increased by 4.03%, 3.46% and 3.96%, respectively. When the number of parameters is only 4.93 m, F1 scores are increased by 5.47%, 2.96% and 6.24%, respectively. YOLOv8n-CSE achieves an inference time of 36.5ms for the desired detection results. To sum up, the model can satisfy the criteria of the litchi cluster detection system for extremely accurate nighttime environment identification.
xLSTMTime: Long-Term Time Series Forecasting with xLSTM
Authors: Alharthi Musleh , Mahmood Ausif
Published: August 2024

In recent years, transformer-based models have gained prominence in multivariate long-term time series forecasting (LTSF), demonstrating significant advancements despite facing challenges such as high computational demands, difficulty in capturing temporal dynamics, and managing long-term dependencies. The emergence of LTSF-Linear, with its straightforward linear architecture, has notably outperformed transformer-based counterparts, prompting a reevaluation of the transformer’s utility in time series forecasting. In response, this paper presents an adaptation of a recent architecture, termed extended LSTM (xLSTM), for LTSF. xLSTM incorporates exponential gating and a revised memory structure with higher capacity that has good potential for LTSF. Our adopted architecture for LTSF, termed xLSTMTime, surpasses current approaches. We compare xLSTMTime’s performance against various state-of-the-art models across multiple real-world datasets, demonstrating superior forecasting capabilities. Our findings suggest that refined recurrent architectures can offer competitive alternatives to transformer-based models in LTSF tasks, potentially redefining the landscape of time series forecasting.
A Systematic Literature Review on Parameters Optimization for Smart Hydroponic Systems
Authors: Shareef Umar , Rehman Ateeq Ur , Ahmad Rafiq
Published: August 2024

Hydroponics is a soilless farming technique that has emerged as a sustainable alternative. However, new technologies such as Industry 4.0, the internet of things (IoT), and artificial intelligence are needed to keep up with issues related to economics, automation, and social challenges in hydroponics farming. One significant issue is optimizing growth parameters to identify the best conditions for growing fruits and vegetables. These parameters include pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), electrical conductivity (EC), light intensity, daily light integral (DLI), and nutrient solution/ambient temperature and humidity. To address these challenges, a systematic literature review was conducted aiming to answer research questions regarding the optimal growth parameters for leafy green vegetables and herbs and spices grown in hydroponic systems. The review selected a total of 131 papers related to indoor farming, hydroponics, and aquaponics. The review selected a total of 123 papers related to indoor farming, hydroponics, and aquaponics. The majority of the articles focused on technology description (38.5%), artificial illumination (26.2%), and nutrient solution composition/parameters (13.8%). Additionally, remaining 10.7% articles focused on the application of sensors, slope, environment and economy. This comprehensive review provides valuable information on optimized growth parameters for smart hydroponic systems and explores future prospects and the application of digital technologies in this field.
The Determination of the Prohibited Herbicide 4,6-Dinitro-Ortho-Cresol (DNOC) in Poisoned Domestic and Wild Animals in Italy
Authors: Rocchi Rachele , Tinelli Antonella , Gatti Giuseppe , Badagliacca Pietro , Cocco Antonio , Cantelmi Maria Chiara , Damiano Antonella , Scortichini Giampiero , Merola Carmine , Petrini Antonio
Published: August 2024

This study reports the determination of DNOC in the baits and gastric contents of poisoned dogs and wild canids collected in the Abruzzo region between 2014 and 2022. A total of 663 samples of the baits and carcasses of domestic and wild animals were analyzed for the determination of DNOC through GC-MS. DNOC was found to be present in 58 cases from 663 analyzed samples, with 49 poison baits and nine gastric content samples from dogs and red foxes. This study confirms for the first time that the banned pesticide DNOC still poisons both domestic and wild animals in the Abruzzo region. It should be considered that this study was carried out on a population of animals from a regional geographical area, and more detailed country-wide studies need to be carried out to obtain the incidence of poisoning from this herbicide in Italy. Furthermore, these findings emphasize the importance of considering this chemical in differential diagnosis during toxicological investigations of animal poisoning.
Feline Encounters Down Under: Investigating the Activity of Cats and Native Wildlife at Sydney’s North Head
Authors: Kennedy Brooke P. A. , Clemann Anna , Ma Gemma C.
Published: August 2024

Cats (Felis catus) are widespread across Australia, including within natural and protected areas, and in many areas, cats, including owned domestic cats, are not restricted in where or when they can roam. In Australia, cats have contributed to the decline of many native species and continue to be a problem for governments. North Head, Manly, is home to an endangered population of Long-nosed Bandicoot (Perameles nasuta) and the only mainland breeding colony of Little Penguin (Eudyptula minor) in New South Wales (NSW). Camera traps were installed for a 5-week period across North Head to determine the spatial and temporal distribution of cat activity. As well as capturing instances of cats, the cameras detected native animals such as birds, possums, Long-nosed Bandicoots and other small mammals. An analysis of the camera images showed cats could be found within protected areas of the headland (where cats are prohibited) and along the boundary with the adjacent suburban area of Manly. Cats were mostly detected during the night. There were high occurrences of overlap between cats and Long-nosed Bandicoots (Dhat 0.82), possums (Dhat 0.88) and other small mammals (Dhat 0.67). These findings indicate that cats are active across the Manly headland at the same time as native animals, both within protected areas where cats are prohibited and in adjacent residential areas, and this could have implications for these populations.
Effects of Bacillus subtilis on Growth Performance, Metabolic Profile, and Health Status in Dairy Calves
Authors: Antanaitis Ramūnas , Džermeikaitė Karina , Krištolaitytė Justina , Armonavičiūtė Emilija , Arlauskaitė Samanta , Girdauskaitė Akvilė , Rutkauskas Arūnas , Baumgartner Walter
Published: August 2024

This study focused on assessing whether the inclusion of probiotics (B. subtilis) as feed additives during the preweaning stage can enhance the body weight and metabolic condition of neonatal calves. A total of 50 Holstein calves, all born on the same farm, were randomly divided into two homogeneous treatment groups after birth. The calves in the control group (CG) were fed a milk replacer (n = 25) (13 females and 12 males) and those in the B. subtilis-supplement-treated group (TG), (n = 25) (13 females and 12 males) were fed a milk replacer with 7.5 mL/calf/day of B. subtilis probiotic (complied with the manufacturer’s guidelines). The probiotic was administered 24 h post-birth, signifying the start of the experimental period. It took one month to collect the animals. Body weight was measured at birth for all animals. A local veterinarian, working on the farm, conducted daily health checks of the calves, recording health parameters and any antibiotic treatments. Blood samples were collected from each calf at birth and 30, 60, and 90 days by puncturing the jugular vein using 10 mL evacuated serum tubes before morning feeding. Significant differences in body weight were observed between the CG and the TG at 30, 60, and 90 days of age. At 30 days, the TG had a 4.11% higher average body weight than the CG (54.38 kg vs. 52.71 kg). At 60 days, the TG’s average weight was 3.75% higher (79.21 kg vs. 76.34 kg), and at 90 days, the TG had a 2.91% higher average weight (112.87 kg vs. 109.67 kg). At 30 days of age, the TG showed significantly lower AST activity, with a 41.12% decrease compared to the CG (51.02 IU/L vs. 72.00 IU/L). Conversely, GGT activity was significantly higher in the TG by 64.68% (40.64 IU/L vs. 14.35 IU/L). Phosphorus concentration at 30 days was also significantly higher in the TG by 9.36% (3.27 mmol/L vs. 2.99 mmol/L). Additionally, the TG had a significantly lower total protein concentration, with a 21.63% decrease at 30 days (46.32 g/L vs. 56.34 g/L) and a 20.28% decrease at 60 days (48.32 g/L vs. 58.12 g/L) compared to the CG. These findings indicate that dairy calves given conventional milk replacer along with a daily dose of 7.5 mL of B. subtilis probiotic experienced enhanced growth performance and a more favourable metabolic profile during the first 90 days of their lives.
Effects of Dietary Ursolic Acid on Growth Performance and Intestinal Health of Largemouth Bass (Micropterus salmoides)
Authors: Wang Min , Wang Yongfang , Li Xiang , Yin Yue , Zhang Xiwen , Wu Shuang , Wang Hongquan , Zhao Yurong
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to investigate the effects of ursolic acid (UA) on the growth performance and intestinal health of largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides). Four diets were formulated with UA supplementation at 0, 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg, defined as the control (CON), UA250, UA500, and UA1000, respectively. After an 8-week feeding experiment, the results showed that, in the UA500 group, the final body weight (FBW), weight gain rate (WGR), and specific growth rate (SGR) increased, and the feed conversion ratio (FCR) and hepatosomatic index decreased. Total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) activity exhibited a significant increase, and malondialdehyde (MDA) content decreased. An intestinal histological analysis revealed an improvement in the intestinal structural integrity of the UA500 group. The mRNA relative expression levels of physical barrier-related genes [occludin, claudin-1, and zonula occluden-1 (zo-1)] were upregulated. The mRNA relative expression of interlenkin 10 (il-10) increased, and the mRNA relative expression of interlenkin 1β (il-1β) and tumor necrosis factor-α (tnf-α) significantly decreased. The abundance of Firmicutes and Proteobacteria decreased, and the abundance of Tenericutes increased. The abundance of Mycoplasma, Cyanobium, and Staphylococcus decreased, while the abundance of Clostridium increased. In conclusion, dietary supplementation of UA significantly enhanced the growth performance and antioxidant capacity of largemouth bass while improving intestinal barrier function through its influence on the abundance of intestinal flora, such as Tenericutes, Firmicutes, and Mycoplasma. Optimal dietary UA levels for largemouth bass were determined to be between 498 and 520 mg/kg based on quadratic regression analyses of WGR, SGR, and FCR or T-SOD and MDA content.
Assessment of De-Escalation of Empirical Antimicrobial Therapy in Medical Wards with Recognized Prevalence of Multi-Drug-Resistant Pathogens: A Multicenter Prospective Cohort Study in Non-ICU Patients with Microbiologically Documented Infection
Authors: Rapti Vasiliki , Poulakou Garyfallia , Mousouli Anastasia , Kakasis Athanasios , Pagoni Stamata , Pechlivanidou Evmorfia , Masgala Aikaterini , Sympardi Styliani , Apostolopoulos Vasileios , Giannopoulos Charalampos , Alexiou Nikolaos , Arvaniti Kostoula , Trakatelli Christina , Prionas Apostolos , Samarkos Michael , Daikos George L. , Giamarellou Helen
Published: August 2024

Antimicrobial resistance poses a major threat to human health worldwide and the implementation of antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs), including antimicrobial de-escalation (ADE), is a multifaceted tool for minimizing unnecessary or inappropriate antibiotic exposure. This was a prospective observational study of 142 non-Intensive Care Unit (ICU) patients with microbiologically documented infection who were initially administered empirical antimicrobial therapy and admitted to the medical wards of 6 tertiary-care hospitals in Greece from January 2017 to December 2018. Patients were divided into two groups, the ADE and non-ADE group, based on whether ADE was applied or not, respectively. Exploratory end-points were ADE feasibility, safety and efficacy. ADE was applied in 76 patients at a median time of 4 days (IQR: 3, 5). An increased likelihood of ADE was observed in patients with urinary tract (OR: 10.04, 95% CI: 2.91, 34.57; p < 0.001), skin and soft tissue (OR: 16.28, 95% CI: 1.68, 158.08; p = 0.016) and bloodstream infections (OR: 2.52, 95% CI: 1, 6.36; p = 0.05). Factors significantly associated with higher rates of ADE were clarithromycin administration, diagnosis of urinary tract infection (UTI), isolation of E. coli, age and symptoms type on admission. Mortality was lower in the ADE group (18.4% vs. 30.3% p < 0.1) and ADE was not significantly associated with the probability of death (p = 0.432). ADE was associated with favorable clinical outcomes and can be performed even in settings with high prevalence of multi-drug resistant (MDR) pathogens without compromising safety.
Genomic Insights into Pediococcus pentosaceus ENM104: A Probiotic with Potential Antimicrobial and Cholesterol-Reducing Properties
Authors: Kompramool Siriwan , Singkhamanan Kamonnut , Pomwised Rattanaruji , Chaichana Nattarika , Suwannasin Sirikan , Wonglapsuwan Monwadee , Jitpakdee Jirayu , Kantachote Duangporn , Yaikhan Thunchanok , Surachat Komwit
Published: August 2024

Pediococcus pentosaceus, which often occurs in fermented foods, is characterized by numerous positive effects on the human health, such as the presence of possible probiotic abilities, the reduction of cholesterol levels, satisfactory antimicrobial activity, and certain therapeutic functions. This study was conducted with the goal of describing the genomic content of Pediococcus pentosaceus ENM104, a strain known for its inhibitory effects against pathogenic bacteria and its remarkable probiotic potential, including the induction of significant reductions in cholesterol levels and the production of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA). The P. pentosaceus ENM104 chromosome is circular. The chromosome is 1,734,928 bp with a GC content of 37.2%. P. pentosaceus also harbors a circular plasmid, pENM104, that is 71,811 bp with a GC content of 38.1%. Functional annotations identified numerous genes associated with probiotic traits, including those involved in stress adaptation (e.g., heat stress: htpX, dnaK, and dnaJ), bile tolerance (e.g., ppaC), vitamin biosynthesis (e.g., ribU, ribZ, ribF, and btuD), immunomodulation (e.g., dltA, dltC, and dltD), and bacteriocin production (e.g., pedA). Notably, genes responsible for lowering cholesterol levels (bile salt hydrolase, bsh) and GABA synthesis (glutamate/GABA antiporter, gadC) were also identified. The in vitro assay results using cell-free supernatants of P. pentosaceus ENM104 revealed antibacterial activity against carbapenem-resistant bacteria, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Acinetobacter baumannii, and the inhibition zone diameter increased progressively over time. This comprehensive study provides valuable insights into the molecular characteristics of P. pentosaceus ENM104, emphasizing its potential as a probiotic. Its notable cholesterol-lowering, GABA-producing, and antimicrobial capabilities suggest promising applications in the pharmaceutical and food industries. Future research should focus on further exploring these functional properties and assessing the strain’s efficacy in clinical settings.
Downregulation of Iron–Sulfur Cluster Biogenesis May Contribute to Hyperglycemia-Mediated Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy in Murine Models
Authors: Wu Lin , Huang Fei , Sun Zichen , Zhang Jinghua , Xia Siyu , Zhao Hongting , Liu Yutong , Yang Lu , Ding Yibing , Bian Dezhi , Li Kuanyu , Sun Yu
Published: August 2024

Background: Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is considered one of the most common chronic complications of diabetes. Impairment of mitochondrial function is regarded as one of the causes. Iron–sulfur clusters are essential cofactors for numerous iron–sulfur (Fe-S)-containing proteins/enzymes, including mitochondrial electron transport chain complex I, II, and III and aconitase. Methods: To determine the impact of hyperglycemia on peripheral nerves, we used Schwann-like RSC96 cells and classical db/db mice to detect the expression of Fe-S-related proteins, mitochondrially enzymatic activities, and iron metabolism. Subsequently, we treated high-glucose-induced RSC96 cells and db/db mice with pioglitazone (PGZ), respectively, to evaluate the effects on Fe-S cluster biogenesis, mitochondrial function, and animal behavior. Results: We found that the core components of Fe-S biogenesis machinery, such as frataxin (Fxn) and scaffold protein IscU, significantly decreased in high-glucose-induced RSC96 cells and db/db mice, accompanied by compromised mitochondrial Fe-S-containing enzymatic activities, such as complex I and II and aconitase. Consequently, oxidative stress and inflammation increased. PGZ not only has antidiabetic effects but also increases the expression of Fxn and IscU to enhance mitochondrial function in RSC96 cells and db/db mice. Meanwhile, PGZ significantly alleviated sciatic nerve injury and improved peripheral neuronal behavior, accompanied by suppressed oxidative stress and inflammation in the sciatic nerve of the db/db mice. Conclusions: Iron–sulfur cluster deficiency may contribute to hyperglycemia-mediated DPN.
Biomonitoring of Heavy Metal Toxicity in Freshwater Canals in Egypt Using Creeping Water Bugs (Ilyocoris cimicoides): Oxidative Stress, Histopathological, and Ultrastructural Investigations
Authors: El-Samad Lamia M. , Arafat Esraa A. , Nour Ola Mohamed , Kheirallah Nessrin , Gad Mohammed E. , Hagar Mohamed , El-Moaty Zeinab A. , Hassan Mohamed A.
Published: August 2024

The abundance of metal pollutants in freshwater habitats poses serious threats to the survival and biodiversity of aquatic organisms and human beings. This study intends for the first time to assess the pernicious influences of heavy metals in Al Marioteya canal freshwater in Egypt, compared to Al Mansoureya canal as a reference site utilizing the creeping water bug (Ilyocoris cimicoides) as an ecotoxicological model. The elemental analysis of the water showed a significantly higher incidence of heavy metals, including cadmium (Cd), cobalt (Co), chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), and lead (Pb), in addition to the calcium (Ca) element than the World Health Organization’s (WHO) permitted levels. The Ca element was measured in the water samples to determine whether exposure to heavy metals-induced oxidative stress engendered Ca deregulation in the midgut tissues of the creeping water bug. Remarkably, increased levels of these heavy metals were linked to an increase in chemical oxygen demand (COD) at the polluted site. Notably, the accumulation of these heavy metals in the midgut tissues resulted in a substantial reduction in antioxidant parameters, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and ascorbate peroxidase (APOX), along with a marked rise in malondialdehyde (MDA), cytochrome P450, and protein carbonyl levels. These results clearly indicate a noticeable disturbance in the antioxidant defense system due to uncontrollable reactive oxygen species (ROS). Notably, the results demonstrated that oxidative stress caused disturbances in Ca levels in the midgut tissue of I. cimicoides from polluted sites. Furthermore, the comet and flow cytometry analyses showed considerable proliferations of comet cells and apoptotic cells in midgut tissues, respectively, exhibiting prominent correlations, with pathophysiological deregulation. Interestingly, histopathological and ultrastructural examinations exposed noticeable anomalies in the midgut, Malpighian tubules, and ovarioles of I. cimicoides, emphasizing our findings. Overall, our findings emphasize the potential use of I. cimicoides as a bioindicator of heavy metal pollution in freshwater to improve sustainable water management in Egypt.
A Rare Case: Adenomatoid Odontogenic Tumor Mimicking Follicular Cyst in a Young Patient
Authors: Petroni Giulia , Zaccheo Fabrizio , Di Gioia Cira Rosaria Tiziana , Adotti Flavia , Cicconetti Andrea
Published: August 2024

The objective of this study is to present an uncommon case of adenomatoid odontogenic tumor (AOT) with an impacted maxillary canine, initially mimicking a follicular cyst. AOT is a rare odontogenic tumor, accounting for approximately 1% to 9% of all odontogenic tumors. It primarily occurs in the maxilla and is often associated with an unerupted permanent tooth. Follicular cysts, also known as dentigerous cysts, are benign odontogenic cysts that encase the crown of an unerupted or impacted tooth. We describe a case of AOT occurring in a 14-year-old male. Both the follicular cyst and adenomatoid odontogenic tumor (AOT) can exhibit similar clinical and radiographic presentations. It is crucial to accurately differentiate between the two to ensure appropriate treatment and prognosis.
Deep Learning-Based Workflow for Bone Segmentation and 3D Modeling in Cone-Beam CT Orthopedic Imaging
Authors: Tiribilli Eleonora , Bocchi Leonardo
Published: August 2024

In this study, a deep learning-based workflow designed for the segmentation and 3D modeling of bones in cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) orthopedic imaging is presented. This workflow uses a convolutional neural network (CNN), specifically a U-Net architecture, to perform precise bone segmentation even in challenging anatomical regions such as limbs, joints, and extremities, where bone boundaries are less distinct and densities are highly variable. The effectiveness of the proposed workflow was evaluated by comparing the generated 3D models against those obtained through other segmentation methods, including SegNet, binary thresholding, and graph cut algorithms. The accuracy of these models was quantitatively assessed using the Jaccard index, the Dice coefficient, and the Hausdorff distance metrics. The results indicate that the U-Net-based segmentation consistently outperforms other techniques, producing more accurate and reliable 3D bone models. The user interface developed for this workflow facilitates intuitive visualization and manipulation of the 3D models, enhancing the usability and effectiveness of the segmentation process in both clinical and research settings. The findings suggest that the proposed deep learning-based workflow holds significant potential for improving the accuracy of bone segmentation and the quality of 3D models derived from CBCT scans, contributing to better diagnostic and pre-surgical planning outcomes in orthopedic practice.