bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular Phylogenesis and Spatiotemporal Spread of SARS-CoV-2 in Southeast Asia
Authors: Zhu Mingjian , Shen Jian , Zeng Qianli , Tan Joanna Weihui , Kleepbua Jirapat , Chew Ian , Law Jia Xian , Chew Sien Ping , Tangathajinda Anita , Latthitham Natthjija , Li Lanjuan
Published: July 2021

Background: The ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has posed an unprecedented challenge to public health in Southeast Asia, a tropical region with limited resources. This study aimed to investigate the evolutionary dynamics and spatiotemporal patterns of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in the region.

Materials and Methods: A total of 1491 complete SARS-CoV-2 genome sequences from 10 Southeast Asian countries were downloaded from the Global Initiative on Sharing Avian Influenza Data (GISAID) database on November 17, 2020. The evolutionary relationships were assessed using maximum likelihood (ML) and time-scaled Bayesian phylogenetic analyses, and the phylogenetic clustering was tested using principal component analysis (PCA). The spatial patterns of SARS-CoV-2 spread within Southeast Asia were inferred using the Bayesian stochastic search variable selection (BSSVS) model. The effective population size (Ne) trajectory was inferred using the Bayesian Skygrid model.

Results: Four major clades (including one potentially endemic) were identified based on the maximum clade credibility (MCC) tree. Similar clustering was yielded by PCA; the first three PCs explained 46.9% of the total genomic variations among the samples. The time to the most recent common ancestor (tMRCA) and the evolutionary rate of SARS-CoV-2 circulating in Southeast Asia were estimated to be November 28, 2019 (September 7, 2019 to January 4, 2020) and 1.446 × 10−3 (1.292 × 10−3 to 1.613 × 10−3) substitutions per site per year, respectively. Singapore and Thailand were the two most probable root positions, with posterior probabilities of 0.549 and 0.413, respectively. There were high-support transmission links (Bayes factors exceeding 1,000) in Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia; Malaysia involved the highest number (7) of inferred transmission links within the region. A twice-accelerated viral population expansion, followed by a temporary setback, was inferred during the early stages of the pandemic in Southeast Asia.

Conclusions: With available genomic data, we illustrate the phylogeography and phylodynamics of SARS-CoV-2 circulating in Southeast Asia. Continuous genomic surveillance and enhanced strategic collaboration should be listed as priorities to curb the pandemic, especially for regional communities dominated by developing countries.
I Know Some People: The Association of Social Capital With Primary Health Care Utilization of Residents in China
Authors: Zhang Weiwei , Huang Yuankai , Lu Mengqing , Lin Guohua , Wo Tian , Xi Xiaoyu
Published: July 2021

Background: Primary health care (PHC) services are underused due to the unbalanced distribution of medical resources. This is especially true in developing countries where the construction of PHC systems has begun to take effect. Social capital is one of the important factors affecting primary health care utilization.

Method: This study investigated the utilization of PHC services by Chinese community residents in the past year. Social capital, PHC utilization, age, health care insurance, etc., were measured. A multilevel negative binomial model was adopted to analyze the association of social capital with PHC utilization.

Results: Data of 5,471 residents from 283 communities in China were collected through a questionnaire survey in 2018. The results showed that community social capital (CSC) is significantly associated with PHC utilization in China, but individual social capital (ISC) had no significant association with PHC utilization. A one-standard deviation increase in the CSC leads to a 1.9% increase in PHC utilization. Other factors like gender, education, income, health insurance, health status, etc., are significantly associated with PHC utilization in China.

Conclusions: Community social capital plays a more important role in promoting PHC utilization, while ISC plays an unclear role in PHC utilization by the residents of China.
FBG-Based Estimation of External Forces Along Flexible Instrument Bodies
Authors: Al-Ahmad Omar , Ourak Mouloud , Vlekken Johan , Vander Poorten Emmanuel
Published: July 2021

A variety of medical treatment and diagnostic procedures rely on flexible instruments such as catheters and endoscopes to navigate through tortuous and soft anatomies like the vasculature. Knowledge of the interaction forces between these flexible instruments and patient anatomy is extremely valuable. This can aid interventionalists in having improved awareness and decision-making abilities, efficient navigation, and increased procedural safety. In many applications, force interactions are inherently distributed. While knowledge of their locations and magnitudes is highly important, retrieving this information from instruments with conventional dimensions is far from trivial. Robust and reliable methods have not yet been found for this purpose. In this work, we present two new approaches to estimate the location, magnitude, and number of external point and distributed forces applied to flexible and elastic instrument bodies. Both methods employ the knowledge of the instrument’s curvature profile. The former is based on piecewise polynomial-based curvature segmentation, whereas the latter on model-based parameter estimation. The proposed methods make use of Cosserat rod theory to model the instrument and provide force estimates at rates over 30 Hz. Experiments on a Nitinol rod embedded with a multi-core fiber, inscribed with fiber Bragg gratings, illustrate the feasibility of the proposed methods with mean force error reaching 7.3% of the maximum applied force, for the point load case. Furthermore, simulations of a rod subjected to two distributed loads with varying magnitudes and locations show a mean force estimation error of 1.6% of the maximum applied force.
Role of Pore-Size Distribution on Effective Rheology of Two-Phase Flow in Porous Media
Authors: Roy Subhadeep , Sinha Santanu , Hansen Alex
Published: July 2021

Immiscible two-phase flow of Newtonian fluids in porous media exhibits a power law relationship between flow rate and pressure drop when the pressure drop is such that the viscous forces compete with the capillary forces. When the pressure drop is large enough for the viscous forces to dominate, there is a crossover to a linear relation between flow rate and pressure drop. Different values for the exponent relating the flow rate and pressure drop in the regime where the two forces compete have been reported in different experimental and numerical studies. We investigate the power law and its exponent in immiscible steady-state two-phase flow for different pore size distributions. We measure the values of the exponent and the crossover pressure drop for different fluid saturations while changing the shape and the span of the distribution. We consider two approaches, analytical calculations using a capillary bundle model and numerical simulations using dynamic pore-network modeling. In case of the capillary bundle when the pores do not interact to each other, we find that the exponent is always equal to 3/2 irrespective of the distribution type. For the dynamical pore network model on the other hand, the exponent varies continuously within a range when changing the shape of the distribution whereas the width of the distribution controls the crossover point.
Overview of Control Programs for Cattle Diseases in Finland
Authors: Autio Tiina , Tuunainen Erja , Nauholz Hannele , Pirkkalainen Hertta , London Laura , Pelkonen Sinikka
Published: July 2021

Animal disease control has a long tradition in Finland. The country is free of all EU-regulated cattle diseases of categories A and B. Infectious bovine rhinotracheitis, enzootic bovine leucosis, bovine viral diarrhea, bluetongue, bovine genital campylobacteriosis, and trichomoniasis do not currently exist in the country. The prevalence of paratuberculosis, Mycoplasma bovis, salmonella infection, and Q-fever is low. The geographic location, cold climate, low cattle density, and limited animal imports have contributed to the favorable disease situation. Besides screening for selected regulated diseases, the national disease-monitoring program includes periodic active monitoring of non-regulated diseases, which allows assessment of the need for new control measures. The detection of diseases through efficient passive surveillance also plays an important part in disease monitoring. The Finnish cattle population totals 850,000 animals kept on 9,300 cattle farms, with 62,000 suckler cows in 2,100 herds and 260,000 dairy cows in 6,300 herds. Animal Health ETT, an association owned by the dairy and meat industry, keeps a centralized cattle health care register. Animal Health ETT supervises cattle imports and trade within the country and runs voluntary control programs (CP) for selected diseases. Active cooperation between authorities, the cattle industry, Animal Health ETT, and herd health experts enables the efficient planning and implementation of CPs. CPs have been implemented for cattle diseases such as salmonella, Mycoplasma bovis, ringworm, and Streptococcus agalactiae. The CP for salmonellosis is compulsory and includes all Salmonella serotypes and all cattle types. It has achieved the goal of keeping the salmonella prevalence under 1% of cattle herds. CPs for M. bovis, ringworm, and S. agalactiae are on a voluntary basis and privately funded. The CP for Mycoplasma was designed in collaboration with national experts and has been implemented since 2013. The CP includes observation of clinical signs, nasal swab sampling from calves, and bulk tank milk and clinical mastitis samples for M. bovis. M. bovis-negative herds gradually achieve lower status levels for M. bovis infection. The general challenge facing voluntary CPs is getting farms to join the programs.
Immune Responses and Efficacy of Brucella Abortus Strain RB51 in Bison After Delivery in a Dry Dart Formulation or by Parenteral Inoculation
Authors: Olsen Steven C. , Boggiatto Paola M. , Nol Pauline , McCollum Matthew P. , Rhyan Jack C.
Published: July 2021

Bison (Bison bison) heifer calves (n = 32) were randomly assigned to control or vaccination with 1010 colony-forming units of Brucella abortus strain RB51 (RB51) vaccine by single or boostered parenteral delivery, or by surgical implantation of a dry dart formulation (n = 8/trt). Serum and/or peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) were obtained at 0, 4, 8, 13, 16, 21, and 24 wks after initial vaccination and at 0, 4, 8, 12, 15, 22, and 27 wks after booster vaccination to characterize humoral and cellular immune responses to RB51. Bison in both RB51 vaccination treatments demonstrated greater (P < 0.0001) serum humoral responses when compared to non-vaccinates, with parenteral vaccinates demonstrating greater (P < 0.01) responses when compared to mean responses of bison inoculated with the dry dart. Only the booster vaccinated treatment demonstrated greater (P < 0.0001) humoral responses than control bison in samples collected after re-inoculation. At 4, 8, 12, 16, and 24 wks after initial vaccination, PBMC from parenteral RB51 vaccinates demonstrated greater proliferative responses to RB51 when compared to responses of control animals. In comparison, bison inoculated with the RB51 dry dart did not demonstrate greater (P > 0.05) proliferative responses when compared to responses of non-vaccinates. Bison were pasture bred and pregnant animals experimentally challenged in mid-gestation with 107 CFU of B. abortus strain 2,308. Bison in parenteral vaccination treatments had reduced (P < 0.05) abortions and infection in uterine and fetal samples as compared to non-vaccinated bison, with booster vaccinates tending to have the lowest colonization (CFU/gm) in tissues. In comparison, the dry dart formulation did reduce abortion (P < 0.05) but not infection (P > 0.05) in most tissues when compared to non-vaccinated bison. The results of this study reaffirm the efficacy of boostered parenteral vaccination of bison with RB51 in preventing brucellosis. Our data also suggests that the novel dry dart RB51 formulation does not induce sufficient efficacy in bison after a single inoculation.
El poder terapéutico de las imágenes
Authors: Rosal Ramón
Published: July 2021

El objetivo de este artículo —en el marco de los intereses del movimiento integrador en psicoterapia—es mostrar el reconocimiento que se concede actualmente, por parte de numerosos modelos psicoterapéuticos, a las técnicas con fantasía guiada. Aún teniendo en cuenta la diversidad en cuanto a las formas de utilización de la imaginería, se constata, como un elemento común en todos ellos, el poder terapéutico de las visualizaciones mentales. La revalorización actual de las imágenes ha sido posible una vez superada la descalificación watsoniana de las mismas y, previamente, los presupuestos dualistas cartesianos. Al final del artículo se describen dos ejemplos de "acontecimientos de cambio" por aplicación de fantasías guiadas.
Integración en psicoterapia: ¿crisis de madurez de la terapia del comportamiento?
Authors: R Goldfrield Marvin
Published: July 2021

Este artículo es una revisión y valoración de la trayectoria seguida por el autor y la terapia de modificación de conducta después de 25 años de trabajo con ella. La finalidad no es infravalorar las aportaciones de la modificación de conducta a la psicoterapia, sino poner de relieve que la suposición de poseer en exclusiva la verdad es más bien corta de vista y peligrosa. En este sentido en el artículo se proponen actitudes abiertas hacia la integración con otras corrientes psicoterapéuticas, con el objetivo principal de aumentar la eficacia en el trabajo clínico.
Compressive Behaviour of Additively Manufactured Lattice Structures: A Review
Authors: Obadimu Solomon O. , Kourousis Kyriakos I.
Published: July 2021

Additive manufacturing (AM) technology has undergone an evolutionary process from fabricating test products and prototypes to fabricating end-user products—a major contributing factor to this is the continuing research and development in this area. AM offers the unique opportunity to fabricate complex structures with intricate geometry such as the lattice structures. These structures are made up of struts, unit cells, and nodes, and are being used not only in the aerospace industry, but also in the sports technology industry, owing to their superior mechanical properties and performance. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the mechanical properties and performance of both metallic and non-metallic lattice structures, focusing on compressive behaviour. In particular, optimisation techniques utilised to optimise their mechanical performance are examined, as well the primary factors influencing mechanical properties of lattices, and their failure mechanisms/modes. Important AM limitations regarding lattice structure fabrication are identified from this review, while the paucity of literature regarding material extruded metal-based lattice structures is discussed.
MODIS NDVI Multi-Temporal Analysis Confirms Farmer Perceptions on Seasonality Variations Affecting Apple Orchards in Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh
Authors: Gupta Himangana , Kaur Lakhvinder , Asra Mahbooba , Avtar Ram , Reddy C. Sudhakar
Published: July 2021

Apple cultivation in the Kinnaur district of the northern Indian State of Himachal Pradesh faces challenges from climatic changes and developmental activities. Farmers in the neighboring districts have already faced a major loss of livelihood due to seasonal changes. Therefore, it is important to study the extent of seasonal variations in the apple growing locations of this region. This study makes that attempt by assessing seasonality variations during a 15-year period from 2004 to 2018 when maximum construction activities occurred in this region. The study uses geospatial and statistical techniques in addition to farmer perceptions obtained during a field visit in November 2019. A temporal pattern using a normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) based on Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) was studied for seven apple-growing locations in the district. The results show high seasonal variations and reduced snowfall at lower elevations, resulting in less chilling hours, which are necessary for the healthy growth of apples. The normalized difference snow index (NDSI) and rainfall show a high correlation with apple growth. Local farmers are unprepared for future seasonal disturbances, as they lack early warning systems, insurance for apple crops, and alternative livelihood options.
The Impacts of Training on Farmers’ Preparedness Behaviors of Earthquake Disaster—Evidence from Earthquake-Prone Settlements in Rural China
Authors: Lian Panpan , Zhuo Zhenyu , Qi Yanbin , Xu Dingde , Deng Xin
Published: July 2021

Earthquakes have strong negative impacts on the development of global economic society. Fortunately, these negative impacts can be reduced through earthquake-preparedness behaviors. However, existing studies mostly focus on the driving factors of disaster-preparedness behaviors among urban residents, while few studies consider such factors among rural residents. Based on survey data of earthquake-prone rural settlements in China, this study uses the probit model and the Poisson model to evaluate the quantitative impact of training on farmers’ earthquake-preparedness behaviors. The results show that: (1) disaster prevention and mitigation training can encourage farmers to engage in earthquake disaster-preparedness behaviors; that is, compared with farmers who have not participated in training, farmers who have participated in training have a 21.39% higher probability of adopting earthquake disaster-preparedness behaviors. (2) Disaster prevention and mitigation training can improve the extent of farmers’ adoption of earthquake disaster avoidance preparedness behaviors, namely, compared with farmers who have not participated in training, farmers who have participated in training adopt earthquake disaster-preparedness behaviors to a greater extent, presenting an increase of 0.75 items. Therefore, this study provides a helpful reference for improving disaster prevention and mitigation training policies for settlements at high risk of earthquakes.
Does Soybean Yield and Seed Nutrient Content Change Due to Broiler Litter Application?
Authors: Singh Rajveer , Prasad Rishi , Delaney Dennis P. , Watts Dexter B.
Published: July 2021

Broiler litter (BL) has the potential to be used as an alternative multi-nutrient source for soybean (Glycine max L.) production. While previous research on soybean yield response to BL has reported inconsistent results, the effects of BL application on soybean seed nutrient concentrations are largely unknown or less studied. The objective of this two-year field study was to investigate the effect of BL application on soybean yield and seed nutrient content in three different soil types and production environments. To pursue the objective, a field experiment was established in 2018 in a Compass loamy sand with four BL rates (0, 2.2, 5.6, and 11.2 Mg BL ha−1). In 2019, the study was expanded to include two additional soil types (Decatur silty clay loam and Dothan fine sandy loam) totaling four site years. The experimental design at each site was a randomized complete block with four replications. Application of BL had no impact on soybean yield in the first year, regardless of application rate and soil type. In the second year of BL application, soybean yield was 43% higher overall compared to no BL plots on a Compass loamy sand. However, soybean yield with the application of 5.6 or 11.2 Mg BL ha−1 was not statistically different from that at 2.2 Mg BL ha−1. Soybean seed Ca and B concentrations changed significantly among the treatments; however, the change was not consistent across the sites. Consecutive year application of 11.2 Mg BL ha−1 yr−1 produced the highest seed K and Cu concentrations. The results of this research suggest that repeated BL application can boost soybean yield and potentially enrich seed with selected nutrients.
Biostimulant Effects of Cerium on Seed Germination and Initial Growth of Tomato Seedlings
Authors: Sobarzo-Bernal Orlando , Gómez-Merino Fernando Carlos , Alcántar-González Gabriel , Saucedo-Veloz Crescenciano , Trejo-Téllez Libia I.
Published: July 2021

The rare earth element (REE) cerium (Ce) can act as a biostimulant in diverse crop plants. The effects of 0, 5, 10, and 15 µM Ce (supplied as CeCl3 7H2O) on seed germination and the initial growth of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) cv. Vengador were evaluated. After a 12 h imbibition, the weight of the seeds treated with 15 µM Ce was 37.5% greater than that observed in the control. The germination index of the seeds treated with 5 µM Ce was greater than 100% (101.93%), though when applying 10 µM Ce this index was 17.53% lower than the control seeds. Nevertheless, Ce treatments did not significantly affect the coefficient of velocity of germination, relative seed germination, germination index, radicle length, dry biomass, or relative growth. Interestingly, shoot length increased significantly in the treatments with 5, 10, and 15 µM Ce. This tendency was also observed in the dry biomass weight and relative growth of the shoots. Hence, Ce has a stimulating effect on germination and initial growth in tomato cv. Vengador shoots. In particular, there was a priming effect of Ce on seeds, reflected in a higher weight gain in Ce-treated seeds, which indicated greater water absorption. Therefore, Ce can be an alternative to accelerate the production time of tomato seedlings in seedbeds.
Optimization of the Microwave-Assisted Extraction of Simple Phenolic Compounds from Grape Skins and Seeds
Authors: Azaroual Latifa , Liazid Ali , Mansouri Fouad El , Brigui Jamal , Ruíz-Rodriguez Ana , Barbero Gerardo F. , Palma Miguel
Published: July 2021

A method for the extraction of phenolic compounds from grape seeds and skins using microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) was developed. Optimization of the effects of the extraction parameters in terms of the results of extraction was obtained using the response surface methodology. The parameters studied were extraction solvent (methanol, ethanol, acetone, and water), percentage of methanol in water, quantity of sample in relation to volume of extraction solvent (solid:liquid, 10–50 mg mL−1), power (100–500 W), magnetic stirring speed (0–100%), and extraction time (5–20 min). Finally, the repeatability and the intermediate precision of the method were determined. The best conditions proved to be: 65% methanol in water as an optimum extraction solvent; 0.5 g of grape skin or seed in a volume of 25 mL; a power of 500 W with the maximum stirring speed (100%); and an extraction time of 5 min. The phenolic compounds proved to be stable in the optimized extraction conditions. The resulting repeatability and the intermediate precision of the optimized method showed a relative standard deviation below 7%. The new method applied on Napoleon grape allowed for the determination of catechin (453.2 (mg kg−1)), epicatechin (306.3 mg kg−1), caftaric acid (22.37 mg caffeic acid equivalents kg−1), dihydrokaempferol-glycoside (11.13 mg kaempferol equivalents kg−1), quercetin (18.28 mg kg−1), quercetin-3-glucoside (20.09 mg quercetin equivalents kg−1), and kaempferol-3-glucoside (11.10 mg kaempferol equivalents kg−1).
Microplastics and Their Effect in Horticultural Crops: Food Safety and Plant Stress
Authors: Silva Gilda Carrasco , Galleguillos Madrid Felipe M. , Hernández Diógenes , Pincheira Gonzalo , Peralta Ana Karina , Urrestarazu Gavilán Miguel , Vergara-Carmona Victor , Fuentes-Peñailillo Fernando
Published: July 2021

The presence of micro and nanoplastics in the food chain constitutes an emergent multifactorial food safety and physiological stress problem, which must be approached with a strategic perspective since it affects public health when consuming products that have this pollutant, such as fish and crustaceans, fruits, and vegetables. In this review, the authors present the results by scientists from different disciplines who are dedicated to discovering their chemical constitution and origin, the contents of these microparticles in edible plants, the contamination of water-irrigated soils, the mechanisms that concentrate microplastics in these soils, methods to determine them, contamination of freshwater sources of cities, and the negative effect of nano and microplastics on various food products and their detrimental impact on the environment. Recent findings of plant uptake mechanisms complement this, but more research is needed.
Comparison of Different Interpolation Methods for Prediction of Soil Salinity in Arid Irrigation Region in Northern China
Authors: Fu Tonggang , Gao Hui , Liu Jintong
Published: July 2021

Numerous methods have been used in the spatial prediction of soil salinity. However, the most suitable method is still unknown in arid irrigation regions. In this paper, 78 locations were sampled in salt-affected land caused by irrigation in an arid area in northern China. The geostatistical characteristics of the soil pH, Sodium Adsorption Ratio (SAR), Total Salt Content (TSC), and Soil Organic Matter (SOM) of the surface (0–20 cm) and subsurface (20–40 cm) layers were analyzed. The abilities of the Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW), Ordinary Kriging (OK), and CoKriging (CK) interpolation methods were compared, and the Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) was used to justify the results of the methods. The results showed that the spatial distributions of the soil properties obtained using the different interpolation methods were similar. However, the surface layer exhibits more spatial heterogeneity than the subsurface layer. Based on the RSME, the nugget/sill value and range significantly affected which method was the most suitable. Lower nugget/sill values and lower ranges can be fitted using the IDW method, but higher nugget/sill values and higher ranges can be fitted using the OK method. These results provide a valuable reference for the prediction of soil salinity.
Local Anesthetic Delivered with a Dual Action Ring and Injection Applicator Reduces the Acute Pain Response of Lambs during Tail Docking
Authors: Small Alison , Marini Danila , Colditz Ian
Published: July 2021

Docking the tail of lambs is a standard husbandry procedure and is achieved through several techniques including clamps, hot or cold knives and latex rings, the last of which is the most popular. All tail docking methods cause acute pain which can be reduced by application of local anesthetic, however precise anatomical injection for optimal efficacy requires considerable skill. This pen trial evaluated the ability of local anesthetic (LA) delivered with a dual function ring applicator/injector to alleviate acute tail docking pain. Thirty ewe lambs were assigned to one of three treatment groups (n = 10 per group): ring plus local anesthetic (Ring LA), ring only (Ring) and sham handled control (Sham). Lambs were videoed and their behavior categorized every five minutes for the first hour and every 10 min for the subsequent two hours after treatment. There was a significant effect (p < 0.001) of treatment on total active pain related behaviors in the first hour, with Ring lambs showing higher counts compared to Ring LA or Sham. Ring lambs also displayed a significantly higher count of combined abnormal postures (p < 0.001) than Ring LA or Sham lambs. Delivery of 1.5 mL of 2% lignocaine via the dual action device abolished abnormal behaviors and signs of pain in Ring LA lambs. However, lambs in the Ring LA group spent less time attempting to suckle compared to Ring and Sham lambs, suggesting that some residual discomfort remained.
Priorities for Research into the Impact of Canine Surgical Sterilisation Programmes for Free-Roaming Dogs: An International Priority Setting Partnership
Authors: Collinson Abi , Brennan Marnie , Dean Rachel , Stavisky Jenny
Published: July 2021

Surgical sterilisation is a core activity of free-roaming dog population management (DPM) programmes globally. However, there is limited published evidence on its impact at the population level. To support evidence-based decision making in this field, it is important that research conducted is relevant to those involved in working with free-roaming dogs and implementing such programmes. The aim of this study was to adapt the James Lind Alliance (JLA) user involvement approach to systematically identify the top 10 research priorities regarding the impact of canine sterilisation. International stakeholders with experience working in DPM were asked in an online survey what unanswered questions they had regarding the impact of sterilisation programmes. Thematic analysis of survey responses was used to develop a long list of collated indicative research questions (CIRQs). A literature review was performed to identify questions that were ‘true uncertainties’ (had not been answered by evidence review). These questions were reduced to a shortlist via an online interim prioritisation survey, and a Delphi consensus process determined the top 10 priorities. The top 10 questions related to dog population size and turnover, dog bite incidents, rabies control, implementation in the field and human behaviour change. These priorities were identified and shaped by people with direct experience of canine surgical sterilisation programmes, and as such are an essential resource for directing future funding and research. Addressing these priorities will generate evidence that is directly applicable to policy makers and practitioners who make decisions regarding the management of free-roaming dogs (FRDs) worldwide.
Incidence, Etiology, and Risk Factors of Clinical Mastitis in Dairy Cows under Semi-Tropical Circumstances in Chattogram, Bangladesh
Authors: Singha Shuvo , Koop Gerrit , Persson Ylva , Hossain Delower , Scanlon Lauren , Derks Marjolein , Hoque Md. Ahasanul , Rahman Md. Mizanur
Published: July 2021

Clinical mastitis (CM) is an important production disease in dairy cows, but much of the knowledge required to effectively control CM is lacking, specifically in low-income countries where most farms are small and have specific dairy management, such as regular udder cleaning and practicing hand milking. Therefore, we conducted a 6-month-long cohort study to (a) estimate the incidence rate of clinical mastitis (IRCM) at the cow and quarter level, (b) identify risk factors for the occurrence of CM, (c) describe the etiology of CM, and (d) quantify antimicrobial susceptibility (AMS) against commonly used antimicrobial agents in S. aureus and non-aureus Staphylococcus spp. (NAS) in dairy farms in the Chattogram region of Bangladesh. On 24 farms, all cows were monitored for CM during a 6-month period. Cases of CM were identified by trained farmers and milk samples were collected aseptically before administering any antimicrobial therapy. In total, 1383 lactating cows were enrolled, which totaled 446 cow-years at risk. During the study period, 196 new cases of CM occurred, resulting in an estimated crude IRCM of 43.9 cases per 100 cow-years, though this varied substantially between farms. Among the tested CM quarter samples, Streptococci (22.9%) followed by non-aureus staphylococci (20.3%) were the most frequently isolated pathogens and resistance of S. aureus and NAS against penicillin (2 out of 3 and 27 out of 39 isolates, respectively) and oxacillin (2 out of 3 and 38 out of 39 isolates, respectively) was common. The IRCM was associated with a high milk yield, 28 to 90 days in milk, and a higher body condition score. Our results show that there is substantial room for udder health improvement on most farms.
Antimicrobial Activity of the Circular Bacteriocin AS-48 against Clinical Multidrug-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Velázquez-Suárez Cristina , Cebrián Rubén , Gasca-Capote Carmen , Sorlózano-Puerto Antonio , Gutiérrez-Fernández José , Martínez-Bueno Manuel , Maqueda Mercedes , Valdivia Eva
Published: July 2021

The treatment and hospital-spread-control of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is an important challenge since these bacteria are involved in a considerable number of nosocomial infections that are difficult to treat and produce prolonged hospitalization, thus also increasing the risk of death. In fact, MRSA strains are frequently resistant to all β-lactam antibiotics, and co-resistances with other drugs such as macrolides, aminoglycosides, and lincosamides are usually reported, limiting the therapeutical options. To this must be added that the ability of these bacteria to form biofilms on hospital surfaces and devices confer high antibiotic resistance and favors horizontal gene transfer of genetic-resistant mobile elements, the spreading of infections, and relapses. Here, we genotypically and phenotypically characterized 100 clinically isolated S. aureus for their resistance to 18 antibiotics (33% of them were OXA resistant MRSA) and ability to form biofilms. From them, we selected 48 strains on the basis on genotype group, antimicrobial-resistance profile, and existing OXA resistance to be assayed against bacteriocin AS-48. The results showed that AS-48 was active against all strains, regardless of their clinical source, genotype, antimicrobial resistance profile, or biofilm formation capacity, and this activity was enhanced in the presence of the antimicrobial peptide lysozyme. Finally, we explored the effect of AS-48 on formed S. aureus biofilms, observing a reduction in S. aureus S-33 viability. Changes in the matrix structure of the biofilms as well as in the cell division process were observed with scanning electron microscopy in both S-33 and S-48 S. aureus strains.
Antimicrobial Potential of Microorganisms Isolated from the Bottom Sediments of Lake Baikal
Authors: Babich Olga , Shevchenko Margarita , Ivanova Svetlana , Pavsky Valery , Zimina Maria , Noskova Svetlana , Anohova Veronika , Chupakhin Evgeny , Sukhikh Stanislav
Published: July 2021

Extremophilic microorganisms attract researchers by their unique characteristics, primarily antagonistic ones, acquired in the process of survival in extreme natural conditions. The antimicrobial potential of the metabolites of these microorganisms is quite broad, from the food industry to therapeutic drugs. Microbial mats of Lake Baikal are a source of unique and diverse microorganisms. The study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of bacterial strains isolated from the bottom sediments of the lake. Using heterotrophic growth conditions, seven bacterial strains were isolated from samples collected in several coastal zones of Lake Baikal. Thisstudy identified both widespread strains of the genera Pseudomonas and Bacillus and rare genera Micrococcus and Acinetobacterrepresentatives. Metabolites of five strains were found to have a broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity. Four large fractions of metabolites of the isolated strains wereidentified. Two peptides of the isolated fractions of metabolites (one is produced by microorganisms of all five isolated strains, another—only by Pseudomonas putida) are low molecular weight oligopeptides. These peptides were proved to be bacteriocins.
Treating Critically Ill Patients Experiencing SARS-CoV-2 Severe Infection with Ig-M and Ig-A Enriched Ig-G Infusion
Authors: Corona Alberto , Richini Giuseppe , Simoncini Sara , Zangrandi Marta , Biasini Monica , Russo Giuseppe , Pasqua Mauro , Santorsola Clemente , Gregorini Camilla , Giordano Chiara
Published: July 2021

SARS-CoV-2 in patients who need intensive care unit (ICU) is associated with a mortality rate ranging from 10 to 40–45%, with an increase in morbidity and mortality in presence of sepsis. We hypothesized that IgM and IgA enriched immunoglobulin G may support the sepsis-related phase improving patient outcome. We conducted a retrospective case–control study on 47 consecutive patients admitted to our ICU. At the time of admission, patients received anticoagulants (heparin sodium) together with the standard supportive treatment. We decided to add IgM and IgA enriched immunoglobulin G to the standard therapy. Patients receiving IgM and IgA enriched immunoglobulin G were compared with patients with similar baseline characteristics and treatment, receiving only standard therapy. The mortality resulted significantly higher in patients treated with standard therapy only (56.5 vs. 37.5%, p < 0.01) and, at day 7, the probability of dying was 3 times higher in this group. Variable life adjustment display (VLAD) was 2.4 and −2.2 (in terms of lives saved in relation with those expected and derived from Simplified Acute Physiology Score II) in the treated and not treated group, respectively. The treatment based on IgM and IgA enriched immunoglobulin G infusion seems to give an advantage on survival in SARS-CoV-2 severe infection.
Removal of Mixed-Species Biofilms Developed on Food Contact Surfaces with a Mixture of Enzymes and Chemical Agents
Authors: Iñiguez-Moreno Maricarmen , Gutiérrez-Lomelí Melesio , Avila-Novoa María Guadalupe
Published: July 2021

Sanicip Bio Control (SBC) is a novel product developed in Mexico for biofilms’ removal. The aims of this study were to evaluate (i) the removal of mixed-species biofilms by enzymatic (protease and α-amylase, 180 MWU/g) and chemical treatments (30 mL/L SBC, and 200 mg/L peracetic acid, PAA) and (ii) their effectiveness against planktonic cells. Mixed-species biofilms were developed on stainless steel (SS) and polypropylene B (PP) in whole milk (WM), tryptic soy broth (TSB) with meat extract (TSB+ME), and TSB with chicken egg yolk (TSB+EY) to simulate the food processing environment. On SS, all biofilms were removed after treatments, except the enzymatic treatment that only reduced 1–2 log10 CFU/cm2, whereas on PP, the reductions ranged between 0.59 and 5.21 log10 CFU/cm2, being the biofilms developed in TSB+EY being resistant to the cleaning and disinfecting process. Higher reductions in microbial load on PP were reached using enzymes, SBC, and PAA. The employed planktonic cells were markedly more sensitive to PAA and SBC than were the sessile cells. In conclusion, biofilm removal from SS can be achieved with SBC, enzymes, or PAA. It is important to note that the biofilm removal was strongly affected by the food contact surfaces (FCSs) and surrounding media.
Discovering the Protective Effects of Resveratrol on Aflatoxin B1-Induced Toxicity: A Whole Transcriptomic Study in a Bovine Hepatocyte Cell Line
Authors: Pauletto Marianna , Giantin Mery , Tolosi Roberta , Bassan Irene , Barbarossa Andrea , Zaghini Anna , Dacasto Mauro
Published: July 2021

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is a natural feed and food contaminant classified as a group I carcinogen for humans. In the dairy industry, AFB1 and its derivative, AFM1, are of concern for the related economic losses and their possible presence in milk and dairy food products. Among its toxic effects, AFB1 can cause oxidative stress. Thus, dietary supplementation with natural antioxidants has been considered among the strategies to mitigate AFB1 presence and its toxicity. Here, the protective role of resveratrol (R) has been investigated in a foetal bovine hepatocyte cell line (BFH12) exposed to AFB1, by measuring cytotoxicity, transcriptional changes (RNA sequencing), and targeted post-transcriptional modifications (lipid peroxidation, NQO1 and CYP3A enzymatic activity). Resveratrol reversed the AFB1-dependent cytotoxicity. As for gene expression, when administered alone, R induced neglectable changes in BFH12 cells. Conversely, when comparing AFB1-exposed cells with those co-incubated with R+AFB1, greater transcriptional variations were observed (i.e., 840 DEGs). Functional analyses revealed that several significant genes were involved in lipid biosynthesis, response to external stimulus, drug metabolism, and inflammatory response. As for NQO1 and CYP3A activities and lipid peroxidation, R significantly reverted variations induced by AFB1, mostly corroborating and/or completing transcriptional data. Outcomes of the present study provide new knowledge about key molecular mechanisms involved in R antioxidant-mediated protection against AFB1 toxicity.
Proanthocyanidins and Where to Find Them: A Meta-Analytic Approach to Investigate Their Chemistry, Biosynthesis, Distribution, and Effect on Human Health
Authors: Mannino Giuseppe , Chinigò Giorgia , Serio Graziella , Genova Tullio , Gentile Carla , Munaron Luca , Bertea Cinzia Margherita
Published: July 2021

Proanthocyanidins (PACs) are a class of polyphenolic compounds that are attracting considerable interest in the nutraceutical field due to their potential health benefits. However, knowledge about the chemistry, biosynthesis, and distribution of PACs is limited. This review summarizes the main chemical characteristics and biosynthetic pathways and the main analytical methods aimed at their identification and quantification in raw plant matrices. Furthermore, meta-analytic approaches were used to identify the main plant sources in which PACs were contained and to investigate their potential effect on human health. In particular, a cluster analysis identified PACs in 35 different plant families and 60 different plant parts normally consumed in the human diet. On the other hand, a literature search, coupled with forest plot analyses, highlighted how PACs can be actively involved in both local and systemic effects. Finally, the potential mechanisms of action through which PACs may impact human health were investigated, focusing on their systemic hypoglycemic and lipid-lowering effects and their local anti-inflammatory actions on the intestinal epithelium. Overall, this review may be considered a complete report in which chemical, biosynthetic, ecological, and pharmacological aspects of PACs are discussed.
Analysis and Design of a Minimalist Step Climbing Robot
Authors: Baishya Nayan Jyoti , Bhattacharya Bishakh , Ogai Harutoshi , Tatsumi Kohei
Published: July 2021

In this article, a novel yet simple step climbing robot is proposed and is comprised of two front wheels, a rear-wheel and an actuator to vary the center distance between the front and rear wheels. When a robot climbs a stair, the huge variance in the inclination angle of the robot may result in its toppling. Hence, a mechanism is proposed to compensate for the change in inclination angle. An inertial measuring unit (IMU) is used to sense the inclination angle of the robot which is then fed to a microcontroller in order to actuate the connecting link, thereby reducing the variation of the inclination angle. During ascending simulations on dynamic model based on the Newton–Euler formulation, the required torque on rear wheel is reduced by 26.3% as compared to uncontrolled simulations. Moreover, the normal reaction on rear wheel during descending simulation has increased by 170.9% by controlling the inclination angle, which reduced the probability of toppling of the proposed robot. Multiple experiments on the prototype with a controlled condition show that the variation in inclination angle is reduced by 77.8% during ascending, whereas it is reduced by 92.8% during descending resulting in successful operation on the stairs as compared to uncontrolled cases.
Assessing the Impact of the Loss Function, Architecture and Image Type for Deep Learning-Based Wildfire Segmentation
Authors: Ciprián-Sánchez Jorge Francisco , Ochoa-Ruiz Gilberto , Rossi Lucile , Morandini Frédéric
Published: July 2021

Wildfires stand as one of the most relevant natural disasters worldwide, particularly more so due to the effect of climate change and its impact on various societal and environmental levels. In this regard, a significant amount of research has been done in order to address this issue, deploying a wide variety of technologies and following a multi-disciplinary approach. Notably, computer vision has played a fundamental role in this regard. It can be used to extract and combine information from several imaging modalities in regard to fire detection, characterization and wildfire spread forecasting. In recent years, there has been work pertaining to Deep Learning (DL)-based fire segmentation, showing very promising results. However, it is currently unclear whether the architecture of a model, its loss function, or the image type employed (visible, infrared, or fused) has the most impact on the fire segmentation results. In the present work, we evaluate different combinations of state-of-the-art (SOTA) DL architectures, loss functions, and types of images to identify the parameters most relevant to improve the segmentation results. We benchmark them to identify the top-performing ones and compare them to traditional fire segmentation techniques. Finally, we evaluate if the addition of attention modules on the best performing architecture can further improve the segmentation results. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first work that evaluates the impact of the architecture, loss function, and image type in the performance of DL-based wildfire segmentation models.
Design of an Integrated Heat Dissipation Mechanism for a Quad Transmit Receive Module of Array Radar
Authors: Liang Jian-Yi , Lee Yung-Lung , Mao Shih-Wei , Tsai Ming-Da
Published: July 2021

A radar system requires a number of high-power components operating in a narrow and convection-free environment. This study aims to develop an integrated heat dissipation system that is suitable for the high-power electronic equipment of radar systems. The proposed heat dissipation mechanism integrates a fluid circulation-type cold plate with a quad transmit receive module. The finite element method in the COMSOL fluid–solid coupling heat transfer analysis software was used to analyze the heat dissipation performance of the cold plate in the proposed mechanism. The Taguchi method was adopted to optimize the cold plate design. The simulation and experimental results show that the proposed mechanism can control the temperature equalization and temperature of the system within the specified requirements. The practicality of the proposed mechanism was verified. The findings can serve as a reference for the design of high-power electronic equipment in a heat dissipation system.
Carbon Allotropes/Epoxy Nanocomposites as Capacitive Energy Storage/Harvesting Systems
Authors: Stavropoulos Sotirios G. , Sanida Aikaterini , Psarras Georgios C.
Published: July 2021

The present work aims at the development and characterization of carbon/polymer matrix nanocomposites, which will be able to operate as compact materials systems for energy storage and harvesting. Series of polymer nanocomposites employing different types of carbon allotropes (carbon black nanoparticles, multi-walled carbon nanotubes, graphene nanoplatelets and nanodiamonds) were developed varying the filler type and content. The energy storage ability of the systems was examined under AC and DC conditions to evaluate the influence of temperature, DC voltage and different types of filler content upon the stored and harvested energy. Experimental data confirmed the ability of the examined systems to store energy and release it on demand via a fast charge/discharge process. The addition of carbon nanoparticles significantly enhances the energy density of the systems. The coefficient of energy efficiency (neff) was determined for all systems, reaching up to 80% for the nanocomposite with 5 phr (parts per hundred resin per mass) carbon black content. In order to examine the optimal operational conditions of the systems, their structural integrity and thermomechanical properties were also investigated by means of static tensile tests, Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA) and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC).