bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does preterm birth increase the initiation of antidepressant use during the postpartum? A population-based investigation
Authors: Esposito Giovanna , Cantarutti Anna , Lupattelli Angela , Franchi Matteo , Corrao Giovanni , Parazzini Fabio
Published: March 2024

Background:

Preterm birth may affect maternal mental health. We explored the relationship between preterm birth and the risk of initiating antidepressant use during the year after birth.

Methods:

We conducted a population-based investigation using regional healthcare utilization databases. The exposure considered was preterm birth. The outcome was having at least one prescription for antidepressant medications during the year after birth. We used a log-binomial regression model including terms for maternal age at birth, nationality, educational level, parity, modality of conception, modality of delivery, use of other psychotropic drugs, and diabetes to estimate relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the association between preterm birth and the initiation of antidepressant use. In addition, the absolute risk differences (ARD) were also computed according to the timing of birth.

Results:

The cohort included 727,701 deliveries between 2010 and 2020 in Lombardy, Northern Italy. Out of these, 6,522 (0.9%) women had at least one prescription for antidepressant drugs during the year after birth. Preterm births were related to a 38% increased risk of initiation of antidepressant use during the year after birth (adjusted RR = 1.38; 95% CI: 1.25–1.52) for moderate to late preterm and to 83% (adjusted RR = 1.83; 95% CI: 1.46–2.28) for extremely and very preterm. Excluding women with only one antidepressant prescription, the association was consistent (adjusted RR = 1.41, 95%CI: 1.23–1.61 for moderate to late preterm and adjusted RR = 1.81, 95% CI: 1.31–2.49 for extremely and very preterm). Also, excluding women who used other psychotropics, the association remained consistent (adjusted RR = 1.39, 95%CI: 1.26–1.54 and adjusted RR = 1.91, 95% CI: 1.53–2.38, respectively for moderate to late and extremely and very preterm).

Conclusion:

Women who delivered preterm may have an excess risk of initiation of antidepressant consumption during the first year after birth.
The impact of nitric oxide on HER family post-translational modification and downstream signaling in cancer
Authors: O’Neill Ciara E. , Sun Kai , Sundararaman Sugunapriyadharshini , Chang Jenny C. , Glynn Sharon A.
Published: March 2024

The human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER) family consists of four members, activated by two families of ligands. They are known for mediating cell–cell interactions in organogenesis, and their deregulation has been associated with various cancers, including breast and esophageal cancers. In particular, aberrant epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and HER2 signaling drive disease progression and result in poorer patient outcomes. Nitric oxide (NO) has been proposed as an alternative activator of the HER family and may play a role in this aberrant activation due to its ability to induce s-nitrosation and phosphorylation of the EGFR. This review discusses the potential impact of NO on HER family activation and downstream signaling, along with its role in the efficacy of therapeutics targeting the family.
A deep semantic network-based image segmentation of soybean rust pathogens
Authors: Wu Yalin , Xi Zhuobin , Liu Fen , Hu Weiming , Feng Hongjuan , Zhang Qinjian
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Asian soybean rust is a highly aggressive leaf-based disease triggered by the obligate biotrophic fungus Phakopsora pachyrhizi which can cause up to 80% yield loss in soybean. The precise image segmentation of fungus can characterize fungal phenotype transitions during growth and help to discover new medicines and agricultural biocides using large-scale phenotypic screens.

Methods

The improved Mask R-CNN method is proposed to accomplish the segmentation of densely distributed, overlapping and intersecting microimages. First, Res2net is utilized to layer the residual connections in a single residual block to replace the backbone of the original Mask R-CNN, which is then combined with FPG to enhance the feature extraction capability of the network model. Secondly, the loss function is optimized and the CIoU loss function is adopted as the loss function for boundary box regression prediction, which accelerates the convergence speed of the model and meets the accurate classification of high-density spore images.

Results

The experimental results show that the mAP for detection and segmentation, accuracy of the improved algorithm is improved by 6.4%, 12.3% and 2.2% respectively over the original Mask R-CNN algorithm.

Discussion

This method is more suitable for the segmentation of fungi images and provide an effective tool for large-scale phenotypic screens of plant fungal pathogens.
Bois noir management in vineyard: a review on effective and promising control strategies
Authors: Pierro Roberto , Moussa Abdelhameed , Mori Nicola , Marcone Carmine , Quaglino Fabio , Romanazzi Gianfranco
Published: March 2024

Among grapevine yellows, Bois noir (BN), associated with ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma solani’, represents the biggest threat in the main wine-growing areas worldwide, causing significant losses in berry quality and yields. BN epidemiology involves multiple plant hosts and several insect vectors, making considerably complex the development of effective management strategies. Since application of insecticides on the grapevine canopy is not effective to manage vectors, BN management includes an integrated approach based on treatments to the canopy to make the plant more resistant to the pathogen and/or inhibit the vector feeding, and actions on reservoir plants to reduce possibilities that the vector reaches the grapevine and transmit the phytoplasma. Innovative sustainable strategies developed in the last twenty years to improve the BN management are reviewed and discussed.
Fostering quality of life in young adults living with multiple sclerosis: a pilot study of a co-created integrated intervention
Authors: Poli Silvia , Donisi Valeria , Mazzi Maria Angela , Gobbin Francesca , Giusto Giorgia , Orlandi Riccardo , Schena Federico , Del Piccolo Lidia , das Nair Roshan , Gajofatto Alberto , Rimondini Michela
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is generally diagnosed at an early age, making the acceptance of this chronic disease challenging. Research dedicated to young adults with MS (YawMS) is still limited. A biopsychosocial co-created intervention for YawMS integrating social, physical and psychological activities was developed (ESPRIMO intervention) in order to improve the quality of life (QoL) and well-being. This pre-post intervention assessment study examines the feasibility of the ESPRIMO intervention and its signal of efficacy.

Methods

Inclusion criteria were: age 18–45 years, MS diagnosis, Expanded Disability Status Scale score < 3.5. After giving informed consent, YawMS completed a battery of questionnaires, which was repeated after the intervention. The battery included a bespoke feasibility scale, the COOP/WONCA charts, and the Short Form-12 Health Survey (SF-12).

Results

Fifty-three YAwMS were enrolled and 43 (81.1%) completed the intervention. The majority of the sample positively rated the pleasantness, usefulness and feasibility of the intervention. A significant change in the COOP/WONCA “general QoL” chart (t = 3.65; p < 0.01) and SF-12 mental wellbeing component (t = −3.17; p < 0.01) was found.

Discussion

ESPRIMO is an innovative intervention that is feasible; preliminary results show an improvement in QoL and mental wellbeing. Further studies are needed to test its efficacy and evaluate future implementation in health services.

Clinical trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04431323.
Parvalbumin interneuron deficiency in the prefrontal and motor cortices of spontaneously hypertensive rats: an attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder animal model insight
Authors: Bogdańska-Chomczyk Ewelina , Równiak Maciej , Huang Andrew Chih-Wei , Kozłowska Anna
Published: March 2024

Background

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is characterized by impairments in developmental–behavioral inhibition, resulting in impulsivity and hyperactivity. Recent research has underscored cortical inhibition deficiencies in ADHD via the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic system, which is crucial for maintaining excitatory–inhibitory balance in the brain. This study explored postnatal changes in parvalbumin (PV) immunoreactivity, indicating GABAergic interneuron types, in the prefrontal (PFC) and motor (MC) cortices of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs), an ADHD animal model.

Methods

Examining PV- positive (PV+) cells associated with dopamine D2 receptors (D2) and the impact of dopamine on GABA synthesis, we also investigated changes in the immunoreactivity of D2 and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH). Brain sections from 4- to 10-week-old SHRs and Wistar Kyoto rats (WKYs) were immunohistochemically analyzed, comparing PV+, D2+ cells, and TH+ fiber densities across age-matched SHRs and WKYs in specific PFC/MC regions.

Results

The results revealed significantly reduced PV+ cell density in SHRs: prelimbic (~20% less), anterior cingulate (~15% less), primary (~15% less), and secondary motor (~17% less) cortices. PV+ deficits coincided with the upregulation of D2 in prepubertal SHRs and the downregulation of TH predominantly in pubertal/postpubertal SHRs.

Conclusion

Reduced PV+ cells in various PFC regions could contribute to inattention/behavioral alterations in ADHD, while MC deficits could manifest as motor hyperactivity. D2 upregulation and TH deficits may impact GABA synthesis, exacerbating behavioral deficits in ADHD. These findings not only shed new light on ADHD pathophysiology but also pave the way for future research endeavors.
Association between physical activity and health-related quality of life among adults in China: the moderating role of age
Authors: Hao Hongying , Yuan Yemin , Li Jie , Zhao Dan , Li Peilong , Sun Jingjie , Zhou Chengchao
Published: March 2024

Objective

The aim of the study was to examine the association between physical activity (PA) and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) among adults and explore the role of age in the association between PA and HRQOL in Shandong, China.

Methods

We investigated the relationship between PA and HRQOL and examined the moderated role of age in this association among adults with different age groups and physical activity levels. Data were obtained from the sixth China National Health Services Survey conducted in Shandong province in 2018. The multi-stage-stratified cluster random sampling method was used to selected respondents, with individuals aged 18 and above included in the present study. The tool of assessing HRQOL was the three-level EuroQol Five Dimensions Questionnaire (EQ-5D-3L).

Results

The study found PA was significantly related to HRQOL (P< 0.05). The interaction analysis indicated that the relationship between PA and HRQOL was significantly different across young, middle-aged, and older adults (P< 0.05). Older adults with the sufficient PA (coefficient = 0.090, 95%CI: [0.081, 0.100]) and active PA (coefficient = 0.057, 95%CI: [0.043, 0.072]) had significantly higher HRQOL compared with young and middle-aged groups.

Conclusion

PA was positively associated with HRQOL among the adults. Age played a moderate role between the association between PA and HRQOL. Guidelines for PA should be specifically tailored to adults of different age groups in order to enhance their HRQoL.
Navigating AI transitions: how coaching leadership buffers against job stress and protects employee physical health
Authors: Jeong Jeeyoon , Kim Byung-Jik , Lee Julak
Published: March 2024

The dynamic interplay between Artificial Intelligence (AI) adoption in modern organizations and its implications for employee well-being presents a paramount area of academic exploration. Within the context of rapid technological advancements, AI’s promise to revolutionize operational efficiency juxtaposes challenges relating to job stress and employee health. This study explores the nuanced effects of Artificial Intelligence (AI) adoption on employee physical health within organizational settings, investigating the potential mediating role of job stress and the moderating influence of coaching leadership. Drawing from the conservation of resource theory, the research hypothesized that AI adoption would negatively impact employee physical health both directly and indirectly through increased job stress. Critically, our conceptual model underscores the mediating role of job stress between AI adoption and physical health. Further, introducing a novel dimension to this discourse, we postulate the moderating influence of coaching leadership. To empirically test the hypotheses, we gathered survey data from 375 South Korean workers with a three-wave time-lagged research design. Our results demonstrated that all the hypotheses were supported. The results have significant implications for organizational strategies concerning AI implementation and leadership development.
Establishing a screening strategy for non-discriminatory reactive blood donors by constructing a predictive model of hepatitis B virus infection status from a single blood center in China
Authors: Wu Danxiao , Hu Yiqin , Wang Min , Wu Yaling , Dong Jie , Liu Jinhui , Hu Wei
Published: March 2024

Background

When employing the transcription-mediated amplification method for screening blood donors, there are some non-discriminatory reactive results which are screening assay reactive but HBV-DNA discriminatory assay negative. This raises concerns regarding the possibility of false positives among donors, which may lead to permanent deferral of blood donors and affect blood supply. This study aimed to elucidate the infection status of these non-discriminatory reactive blood donors and develop and validate a model to predict individualized hepatitis B status to establish an optimal screening strategy.

Methods

Supplementary tests were conducted on initial non-discriminating reactive donations to determine their HBV infection status, including repeat testing, viral load, serological marker detection, and follow-up. Primary clinical variables of the donors were recorded. Based on the Akaike information criterion, a stepwise forward algorithm was used to identify the predictive factors for information and construct a predictive model. The optimal screening strategy was determined through cost-effectiveness analysis.

Results

At the Blood Center of Zhejiang Province, 435 cases of initial non-discriminatory reactive donations were collected over two successive periods and sub-categorized through repeated testing into the following three groups: non-repeated positive group, non-discriminated positive group, and non-repeated HBV-DNA positive group. The HBV discriminatory rate increased after repeated testing (110/435, 25.29%). According to supplementary tests, the HBV-DNA positivity rate was 65.52% (285/435), and occult HBV infection was a significantly different among groups (χ2 = 93.22, p < 0.01). The HBV serological markers and viral load in the non-repeated positive group differed from those in the other two groups, with a lower viral load and a higher proportion of false positives. The predictive model constructed using a stepwise forward algorithm exhibited high discrimination, good fit, high calibration, and effectiveness. A cost-effectiveness analysis indicated that utilizing repeated discriminatory testing and the predictive model is an extremely beneficial screening approach for non-discriminatory reactive blood donors.

Conclusion

Nearly two-third (65.52%) of the non-discriminatory reactive blood donors were HBV-DNA positive. Our innovative approach of constructing a predictive model as a supplementary screening strategy, combined with repeated discriminatory experiments, can effectively identify the infection status of non-discriminatory reactive blood donors, thereby increasing the safety of blood transfusions.
Breaking ground: transformative partnerships for inclusive bean breeding in Zimbabwe
Authors: Nchanji Eileen Bogweh , Chisorochengwe Nyarai , Tsekenedza Shylet , Gutsa Freeman , Musyoka James Ndambuki , Lutomia Cosmas Kweyu
Published: March 2024

Common bean is often considered a woman’s crop because they play important roles from production to marketing. However, breeding programs often focus on farmers without adequate attention to the interconnectedness between gender and other socioeconomic variables and how they influence varietal and trait preferences of other value chain actors. This study analyzed gendered differences in bean production and trade, implications of socioeconomic conditions on bean production and marketing, and the role of partnerships in closing gender gaps in the bean value chain in Zimbabwe. The results obtained from the analysis of survey data collected from 131 farmers and 18 trades revealed beans as a dual-purpose crop for male and female farmers and traders. Varietal and trait preferences were the same for both male and female farmers and traders but were prioritized differently. While female farmers prioritized cooking time, men farmers prioritized biofortification and market traits. Whereas male traders equally preferred price, color, and appearance, female traders prioritized price over color and appearance. Poverty and marital statuses of respondents influenced the number of varieties preferred by male and female farmers. We found that the effectiveness of partnerships in closing gender gaps in marketing is variety specific. While having partners closed the gender gaps in the marketing of the NUA45 variety, such partnerships did not have the same effect on closing gender gaps in the marketing of Cherry, Gloria, and other varieties. The results show that considering socioeconomic characteristics of actors and partnerships can reduce gender disparities in the bean value chain. Therefore, breeding programs should recognize the interconnectedness between socioeconomic variables and gender when developing breeding products.
Testing the effect of descriptive dynamic social norm messages on meatless food purchases in Aotearoa New Zealand and UK university food outlets
Authors: Patel Vibhuti , Mirosa Miranda , Buckland Nicola J.
Published: March 2024

A reduction in meat consumption is urgently needed to address multiple harms related to the environment, animal welfare, and human health. Social norm interventions have been found to be feasible and effective at shifting consumer behaviour, however, evidence related to meat reduction behaviour is limited – especially in naturalistic settings. Two social norm interventions were conducted at university food outlets in Aotearoa New Zealand and in the UK, to assess the effect of social norm messages on meat and meatless food purchases. Both interventions consisted of a week-long intervention phase during which descriptive dynamic social norm messages referring to reduced meat intake were displayed in the food outlets (study one and two) and via social media (study two). Meat and meatless food purchases during the interventions were compared to pre- and post-intervention weeks. Surveys were also conducted with a sub-group of customers to assess demographics, dietary habits, and awareness of the social norm message. In both studies, there was no significant effect of the social norm interventions on meat or meatless food purchases, and awareness of the norms message across both studies was low. These findings indicate that social norm interventions alone may be ineffective in encouraging meat reduction. Implications for interventions to reduce meat intake to support pro-environmental food choices are discussed.
Low-cost small-scale irrigation for developing an agroforestry system in the semi-arid zone of Niger: case of the apple of the Sahel (Ziziphus mauritiana L.)
Authors: Traore Bouba , Illiasso Aboubacar D. K. T. , Soulé Moussa , Arzika Mahaman Zaharadine , Abdoussalam Ibrahima , Moussa Abdourazak Alio , Koudoussou Ibrahim Mana , Moyo Martin
Published: March 2024

Cultivation of the ‘Apple of the Sahel’ (also known as Indian Jujube) is central to the food security, nutrition, and income of rural communities in developing countries like Niger. However, rainfall variability significantly impacts the development of this plant. This study aims to determine the effects of seasonal water regimes on the growth and productivity of the Apple of the Sahel. The trials were conducted in 2020 and 2021 during the rainy and dry seasons at the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) experimental site in Sadore, Niamey, Niger. The experiment was arranged in a factorial design with three irrigation doses (D) and three irrigation systems (G) as main and subplot factors, respectively. The sub-subplot factors were irrigation frequencies (F) and growth boosters (B), each with two levels. In the dry season, irrigation dose application significantly (p = 0.001) increased soil volumetric water content (vwc). A similar increase in soil vwc was achieved under small-scale drip irrigation with an application of the same dose of organic material (p = 0.001). The diameter of the Apple of the Sahel trees significantly increased (p = 0.03) under the small-scale drip irrigation systems with 6.72 mm recorded under the two-drip irrigation system (G2) as compared with the manual system (G0). In the dry season, the total fruit harvest of Apple of the Sahel recorded had increased (p = 0.04) under the irrigated system, varying from 112 to 246% depending on the number of drippers, and compared to the manual system. These results highlight that small-scale drip irrigation should be used in combination with appropriate water and fertilizer management to improve water availability and tree yield in agroforestry systems in arid regions such as Niger.
Outcomes of balloon angioplasty and stent placement for iliac artery lesions classified as TASC II A, B: a single-center study
Authors: Duc Tin Le , Van Nut Lam , Abdalla Abdelrahman Sherif , Duc Hoang , Kwaah Patrick A. , Le Trang T. B. , Vy Tran Thi Thuy , Le Thoa , Anh Pham Minh , Kim Que Do , Huy Nguyen Tien
Published: March 2024

Background

Iliac artery stenosis or occlusion is a critical condition that can severely impact a patient's quality of life. The effectiveness of balloon angioplasty and intraluminal stenting for the treatment of iliac artery lesions classified as TASC II A and B was evaluated in this single-center prospective study.

Methods

Conducted between October 2016 and September 2020 at Cho Ray Hospital's Vascular Surgery Department, this prospective study involved PAD patients categorized by TASC II A and B classifications who underwent endovascular intervention. Intervention outcomes were assessed peri-procedure and during short-term and mid-term follow-ups.

Results

Of the total of 133 patients, 34.6% underwent balloon angioplasty, while 65.4% received stenting. The immediate technical success rate was 97.7%, while the clinical success rate was 62.4%. Complications were minimal, with major limb amputation reported in 1.5% of the cases. There was a significant improvement in Rutherford classification and ABI at short-term follow-up, with a patency rate of 90.2%. The mid-term post-intervention follow-up yielded similar results with an 86.1% patency rate. The mortality rates associated with arterial occlusion were 2.3% during short-term follow-up and 1.7% during mid-term follow-up.

Conclusion

Balloon angioplasty and stent placement are effective and safe interventions for TASC II A and B iliac artery occlusions with favorable short and mid-term outcomes. Further, multi-center studies with larger sample sizes are recommended for more comprehensive conclusions, including long-term follow-up assessment.
In silico biomarker analysis of the adverse effects of perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) exposure on the metabolic physiology of embryo-larval zebrafish
Authors: Nolen Rayna M. , Petersen Lene H. , Kaiser Karl , Quigg Antonietta , Hala David
Published: March 2024

Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) is a ubiquitous pollutant in global aquatic ecosystems with increasing concern for its toxicity to aquatic wildlife through inadvertent exposures. To assess the likely adverse effects of PFOS exposure on aquatic wildlife inhabiting polluted ecosystems, there is a need to identify biomarkers of its exposure and toxicity. We used an integrated systems toxicological framework to identify physiologically relevant biomarkers of PFOS toxicity in fish. An in silico stoichiometric metabolism model of zebrafish (Danio rerio) was used to integrate available (published by other authors) metabolomics and transcriptomics datasets from in vivo toxicological studies with 5 days post fertilized embryo-larval life stage of zebrafish. The experimentally derived omics datasets were used as constraints to parameterize an in silico mathematical model of zebrafish metabolism. In silico simulations using flux balance analysis (FBA) and its extensions showed prominent effects of PFOS exposure on the carnitine shuttle and fatty acid oxidation. Further analysis of metabolites comprising the impacted metabolic reactions indicated carnitine to be the most highly represented cofactor metabolite. Flux simulations also showed a near dose-responsive increase in the pools for fatty acids and acyl-CoAs under PFOS exposure. Taken together, our integrative in silico results showed dyslipidemia effects under PFOS exposure and uniquely identified carnitine as a candidate metabolite biomarker. The verification of this prediction was sought in a subsequent in vivo environmental monitoring study by the authors which showed carnitine to be a modal biomarker of PFOS exposure in wild-caught fish and marine mammals sampled from the northern Gulf of Mexico. Therefore, we highlight the efficacy of FBA to study the properties of large-scale metabolic networks and to identify biomarkers of pollutant exposure in aquatic wildlife.
Cytokine profile in peripheral blood mononuclear cells differs between embryo donor and potential recipient sows
Authors: Cambra Josep M. , Gil Maria A. , Cuello Cristina , Gonzalez-Plaza Alejandro , Rodriguez-Martinez Heriberto , Klymiuk Nikolai , Martinez Emilio A. , Parrilla Inmaculada
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Pregnancy success relies on the establishment of a delicate immune balance that requires the early activation of a series of local and systemic immune mechanisms. The changes in the immunological profile that are normally occurring in the pregnant uterus does not take place in cyclic (non-pregnant) uterus, a fact that has been widely explored in pigs at the tissue local level. Such differences would be especially important in the context of embryo transfer (ET), where a growing body of literature indicates that immunological differences at the uterine level between donors and recipients may significantly impact embryonic mortality. However, whether components of peripheral immunity also play a role in this context remains unknown. Accordingly, our hypothesis is that the immune status of donor sows differs from potential recipients, not only at the tissue local level but also at the systemic level. These differences could contribute to the high embryonic mortality rates occurring in ET programs.

Methods

In this study differences in systemic immunity, based on cytokine gene expression profile in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), between embryo-bearing donor (DO group; N = 10) and potential recipient sows (RE group; N = 10) at Day 6 after the onset of the estrus were explored. Gene expression analysis was conducted for 6 proinflammatory (IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-2, GM-CSF, IFN-γ, and TNF-α) and 6 anti-inflammatory (IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-13, TGF-β1, and LIF) cytokines.

Results and discussion

All cytokines were overexpressed in the DO group except for IL-4, suggesting that stimuli derived from the insemination and/or the resultant embryos modify the systemic immune profile in DO sows compared to RE (lacking these stimuli). Our results also suggest that certain cytokines (e.g., IL-1α and IL-1β) might have a predictive value for the pregnancy status.
Microfilaremic infection in canine filariosis in Colombia: a challenge in morphological and molecular diagnostics
Authors: Esteban-Mendoza María Victoria , Arcila-Quiceno Victor Hernán , Ríos Chacón Catalina , Jaimes Dueñez Jeiczon Elim , Tique Oviedo Marisol , Díaz Bustos Alejandro , Castellanos María Fernanda , Morchón Rodrigo
Published: March 2024

Canine filariosis is caused by filiform nematodes and affects several species of animals as well as humans. The disease produces a wide range of symptoms that can often be confused with other diseases, which increases the complexity of its diagnosis. The search for methodologies to facilitate its diagnosis is a challenge, and specific and differential identification of the parasite species causing the disease holds key to a successful diagnosis. In Colombia, there is a problem of underdiagnosis of filariosis in microfilaremic dogs infected by Dirofilaria immitis and Acanthocheilonema reconditum, and of microfilaremias not related to heartworm disease. The highest prevalences have been reported for D. immitis infections, although new cases of A. reconditum infections are beginning to appear. The aim of this study was to differentiate the microfilariae infections caused by D. immitis and A. reconditum by a morphological and molecular characterization of microfilariae so as to facilitate an accurate diagnosis of canine filariosis in the metropolitan area of Bucaramanga (Colombia). For this purpose, 400 blood samples with anticoagulants were collected from the dogs and analyzed with the help of a commercial immunochromatography kit for the detection of D. immitis circulating antigen. The Woo, Knott, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques were employed for determining the parasite count, morphological observation, and molecular identification of microfilariae present in the dogs respectively. The prevalence of microfilaremic dogs in Bucaramanga metropolitan area was 18.75% (75/400). The prevalence of dogs that tested positive for D. immitis in the antigen and in PCR tests was 1.25% (5/400) and 1% (4/400), respectively. Furthermore, the PCR test revealed that 17.75% of the microfilaremic dogs tested positive for A. reconditum (71/400) (first report in the metropolitan area of Bucaramanga), with one animal co-infected by both species, and 0% for D. repens (0/400). However, by morphological characterization, 4% of the microfilariae (3/75) corresponded to D. immitis, 20% (15/75) to D. repens, and 76% (57/75) to A. reconditum. The use of molecular diagnostic methods such as PCR aids in the specific identification of the parasite, thus making it a more accurate method than the morphological characterization of microfilariae. The identification of the parasites by PCR helps improve the veterinary diagnosis of canine filariosis in Colombia, which would lead to the establishment of an appropriate treatment protocol for each species of filaria and also to the generation of reliable data to be used at the clinical and epidemiological levels.
Curvature Correction for Crack Depth Measurement Using Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity
Authors: Liu Dong , Wu Mengli , Donskoy Dimitri
Published: March 2024

This study investigates the application of Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity (UPV) for crack depth estimation in cylindrical structures, focusing on two approaches: reference measurement and dual measurement. It addresses the challenge of applying UPV to curved surfaces, a scenario less studied than that of flat surfaces. The paper details the modification of UPV methodologies to account for curvature, presenting analytic solutions and numerical validations for both approaches. The findings reveal that curvature-adjusted equations yield accurate crack depth estimations, enhancing the reliability of UPV in diverse structural contexts. The study contributes to safer and more effective structural health monitoring, particularly in cylindrical infrastructures like columns and foundations.
A Python Toolbox for Data-Driven Aerodynamic Modeling Using Sparse Gaussian Processes
Authors: Valayer Hugo , Bartoli Nathalie , Castaño-Aguirre Mauricio , Lafage Rémi , Lefebvre Thierry , López-Lopera Andrés F. , Mouton Sylvain
Published: March 2024

In aerodynamics, characterizing the aerodynamic behavior of aircraft typically requires a large number of observation data points. Real experiments can generate thousands of data points with suitable accuracy, but they are time-consuming and resource-intensive. Consequently, conducting real experiments at new input configurations might be impractical. To address this challenge, data-driven surrogate models have emerged as a cost-effective and time-efficient alternative. They provide simplified mathematical representations that approximate the output of interest. Models based on Gaussian Processes (GPs) have gained popularity in aerodynamics due to their ability to provide accurate predictions and quantify uncertainty while maintaining tractable execution times. To handle large datasets, sparse approximations of GPs have been further investigated to reduce the computational complexity of exact inference. In this paper, we revisit and adapt two classic sparse methods for GPs to address the specific requirements frequently encountered in aerodynamic applications. We compare different strategies for choosing the inducing inputs, which significantly impact the complexity reduction. We formally integrate our implementations into the open-source Python toolbox SMT, enabling the use of sparse methods across the GP regression pipeline. We demonstrate the performance of our Sparse GP (SGP) developments in a comprehensive 1D analytic example as well as in a real wind tunnel application with thousands of training data points.
A Greener Approach to Spinach Farming: Drip Nutrigation with Biogas Slurry Digestate
Authors: Yadav Rashmi , Sudhishri Susama , Khanna Manoj , Lal Khajanchi , Dass Anchal , Kushwaha Hari Lal , Bandyopadhyay Kalikinkar , Suman Archna , Singh Anupama , Singh Rajiv Kumar , Singh Raj
Published: March 2024

To achieve higher crop yields and maintain environmental conservation, it is imperative to adopt novel agricultural methods that improve both the quantity and quality of produce. The following study focused on investigating the effectiveness of integrated use of biogas slurry and inorganic nutrigation on spinach growth and nutrient uptake through drip irrigation. A field experiment was conducted using a split-plot design; spinach was cultivated with seven different treatments: biogas slurry nutrigation (BSN) (T1), integrated inorganic + organic nutrigation: 40% Recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) + BSN (T2), 60% RDF + BSN (T3), 80% RDF + BSN (T4), 100% RDF (T5), slurry broadcasting (SB) (T6), and control (T7). The results showed that spinach grown with (T4) 80% RDF + BSN exhibited optimum plant height and leaf count compared to spinach under other treatments and was at par with T5 100% RDF for crop parameters. T5 treated plants demonstrated the longest roots, followed by T4 treated plants. The highest recorded yield of 5.72 tons ha−1 was achieved in treatment T5 with 100% RDF, followed closely by T4 with 80% RDF + BSN at 5.52 tons ha−1 and T3 with 60% RDF + BSN at 5.36 tons ha−1. These three treatments exhibited comparable yields, showcasing the effectiveness of incorporating biogas slurry nutrigation in conjunction with inorganic fertilizer for achieving high spinach yields. In terms of macronutrient content in spinach leaves, significant differences were found for nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) contents. Incorporating biogas slurry into the soil modified microbial enzyme activities, specifically dehydrogenase and phosphatase. Normally, alkaline phosphatase shows greater activity than acidic phosphatase, but the addition of biogas slurry equalized the enzymatic activity of both, establishing a harmonized enzymatic profile. Our results suggest that fertilizing spinach with integrated biogas slurry nutrigation (if properly filtered) + inorganic nutrigation through drip nutrigation is a viable strategy for improving the morphological parameters and productivity of spinach while also contributing to environmental preservation and a reduction in production costs.
The Impact of Combining Robinia pseudoacacia Leaves and Corn Straw on Soil Carbon Content and Corn Yield in Loess Plateau
Authors: Liu Hanyu , Liu Jianjian , Zhang Zhenjiao , Liu Weichao , Zhang Qi , Wang Xing , Ren Chengjie , Yang Gaihe , Han Xinhui
Published: March 2024

In the agroforestry system, the organic matter in the farmland and natural ecosystem enters the farmland soil in a mixed form to improve soil fertility and carbon pool quality. However, it is unclear how soil microbial carbon-degrading enzyme activity responds to carbon dynamics in this process. Therefore, we took farmland in the Loess Plateau as the research object, combining the application of corn straw and Robinia pseudoacacia leaves in a mass ratio of 4:0, 3:1, 2:2, 1:3, and 0:4 for returning to the field. We measured corn grain yield, carbon emission, organic carbon pool component content, and carbon-degrading enzyme activity of the farmland. The results showed that combining corn straw and Robinia pseudoacacia leaves had a significant impact on soil organic carbon components (readily oxidizable organic carbon and recalcitrant organic carbon), carbon-degrading enzymes (polyphenol oxidase, peroxidase, and cellobiohydrolase), and cumulative carbon emissions. The trend of different indicators in different treatments during the corn growth period was similar. We found that soil carbon emissions were closely related to ROC and soil oxidase activity, while soil carbon content was closely related to soil hydrolase activity. Compared to not returning straw to the field, the corn straw and Robinia pseudoacacia leaves returned to the field in a mass ratio of 1:3(Y1C3) can increase corn grain yield by 32.04%. The Y1C3 treatment has the highest soil carbon content and the lowest crop carbon emission efficiency. Soil water content plays a crucial role in the process of carbon pool transformation driven by soil carbon-degrading enzymes. In conclusion, soil carbon dynamics are closely related to the activity of soil carbon-degrading enzymes. Combining the application of corn straw and Robinia pseudoacacia leaves may be a more suitable farming measure for fragile habitats in the Loess Plateau than other solutions.
The Association of Redox Regulatory Drug Target Genes with Psychiatric Disorders: A Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Lu Zhe , Yang Yang , Zhao Guorui , Zhang Yuyanan , Sun Yaoyao , Liao Yundan , Kang Zhewei , Feng Xiaoyang , Sun Junyuan , Yue Weihua
Published: March 2024

Redox regulatory drug (RRD) targets may be considered potential novel drug targets of psychosis due to the fact that the brain is highly susceptible to oxidative stress imbalance. The aim of the present study is to identify potential associations between RRD targets’ perturbation and the risk of psychoses; to achieve this, Mendelian randomization analyses were conducted. The expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) and protein QTL data were used to derive the genetic instrumental variables. We obtained the latest summary data of genome-wide association studies on seven psychoses as outcomes, including schizophrenia (SCZ), bipolar disorder (BD), major depressive disorder (MDD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, autism, obsessive–compulsive disorder and anorexia nervosa. In total, 95 unique targets were included in the eQTL panel, and 48 targets in the pQTL one. Genetic variations in the vitamin C target (OGFOD2, OR = 0.784, p = 2.14 × 10−7) and melatonin target (RORB, OR = 1.263, p = 8.80 × 10−9) were significantly related to the risk of SCZ. Genetic variation in the vitamin E (PRKCB, OR = 0.248, p = 1.24 × 10−5) target was related to an increased risk of BD. Genetic variation in the vitamin C target (P4HTM: cerebellum, OR = 1.071, p = 4.64 × 10−7; cerebellar hemisphere, OR = 1.092, p = 1.98 × 10−6) was related to an increased risk of MDD. Cognitive function mediated the effects on causal associations. In conclusion, this study provides supportive evidence for a causal association between RRD targets and risk of SCZ, BD or MDD, which were partially mediated by cognition.
Retrofitting of a Steel Truss Joint by Creating Composite Connections and PTMSs (Post-Tensioned Metal Straps)
Authors: Hajiha Arman , Cucuzza Raffaele , Bertagnoli Gabriele
Published: March 2024

The fatigue phenomenon has a significant effect on the joints of steel truss bridges, causing the formation of plastic hinges leading to potential collapse configurations. For this reason, in the last few years, the development of new methods to effectively strengthen such joints has gained attention. In this article, a mechanism for the improvement of the resistance to fatigue of these types of connections is proposed, by employing composite joints and post-tensioned metal straps (PTMSs). Following this approach, first the overstressed connections of the structure have been identified during the inspection phase, and subsequently, they have been encased in a concrete casting with a proper level of strength. To analyze the behavior of the steel–concrete mixed solution, a finite element model has been realized in ABAQUS (rel. 2022.0) and it has been validated based on comparison between the numerical results and the experimental ones obtained by laboratory tests. Then, a parametric analysis was performed to investigate the effect of the concrete type employed in the connection behavior. In the second stage of the research, based on the first cracks configuration obtained numerically and observed experimentally, PTMSs have been used to control the cracks and strengthen the joint. The strains and stresses on the concrete and steel parts of the connection were measured before and after the insertion of the PTMSs and compared with the outputs of the model. Additionally, a parametric analysis was carried out to assess the optimal number of straps. The effect of this solution on the resistance of the joint and on the behavior of concrete was analyzed and the effectiveness of the strengthening technique was assessed.
Acorns as a Source of Valuable Compounds for Food and Medical Applications: A Review of Quercus Species Diversity and Laboratory Studies
Authors: Szabłowska Emilia , Tańska Małgorzata
Published: March 2024

Acorns, the fruit of oak trees of the genus Quercus, have been known to people for generations worldwide. In ancient times, they were an important part of culinary traditions and folk medicine. Their exploitation for food over the years has been significantly diminished, which may arise from the high content of tannins responsible for a bitter taste and anti-nutritional properties. However, more and more studies show acorns’ potential nutritional and health benefits. Furthermore, new reports are emphasizing the health-promoting properties of tannin-decomposition products. This review aims to present the available studies on the phytoconstituents variation in the acorns of different Quercus species and their possible significance for food and medical applications. In this study, the results of lab-scale food processing, as well as in vivo and in vitro experiments, are included. The literature data proved that acorn products (flour, oil, and extracts) are intensively examined due to their dietary, antioxidant, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and neuroprotective activities provided by their bioactive compounds. The general conclusion is that this raw material can be used more widely in the future as an ingredient in functional foods, supplements, and drugs.
New Displacement Method for Free Embedded Cantilever Walls in Sand
Authors: Hamderi Murat
Published: March 2024

In the current literature, there is no practical formula to calculate the horizontal displacement of cantilever walls. To fill this gap, in the present study, eight formulae for the estimation of wall displacement were developed based on 431 FE wall model configurations. Each formula considers factors such as the wall height, embedment depth, surcharge load, unit weight, internal friction angle, elastic modulus of the surrounding soil, and flexural rigidity of the wall. The FE model, which was used in the development of the formula, was also validated against a physical laboratory study. In addition, the outputs obtained from the formulae were compared with the results of two laboratory studies and a real site study. Finally, a parametric study was performed to estimate the influence of formula input parameters on wall displacement.
Optimizing Bladeless Wind Turbines: Morphological Analysis and Lock-In Range Variations
Authors: González-González Enrique , Yáñez David J. , Del Pozo Susana , Lagüela Susana
Published: March 2024

This study presents a comprehensive exploration centred on the morphology and surface structure of bladeless wind turbines (BWTs) aimed at optimizing their wind energy harvesting capability. Unlike conventional wind technology where vortex-induced vibration (VIV) is seen as problematic due to aeroelastic resonance, this effect becomes advantageous in BWT energy harvesters, devoid of frictional contact or gears. The primary objective of this study is to develop an optimal BWT design for maximizing energy output. Specifically, this study delves into optimizing the energy performance of these VIV wind energy harvesters, investigating how the geometry (shape and roughness) influences their operating range, known as Lock-In range. The results demonstrate how variations in geometry (convergent, straight, or divergent) can shift the Lock-In range to different Reynolds numbers (Re), modelled by the equation: Re (max Lock-In) = 0.30 α + 4.06. Furthermore, this study highlights the minimal impact of roughness within the considered test conditions.
Quantum Implementation of AIM: Aiming for Low-Depth
Authors: Jang Kyungbae , Oh Yujin , Kim Hyunji , Seo Hwajeong
Published: March 2024

Security vulnerabilities in the symmetric-key primitives of a cipher can undermine the overall security claims of the cipher. With the rapid advancement of quantum computing in recent years, there is an increasing effort to evaluate the security of symmetric-key cryptography against potential quantum attacks. This paper focuses on analyzing the quantum attack resistance of AIM, a symmetric-key primitive used in the AIMer digital signature scheme. We present the first quantum circuit implementation of AIM and estimate its complexity (such as qubit count, gate count, and circuit depth) with respect to Grover’s search algorithm. For Grover’s key search, the most important optimization metric is depth, especially when considering parallel search. Our implementation gathers multiple methods for a low-depth quantum circuit of AIM in order to reduce the Toffoli depth and full depth (such as the Karatsuba multiplication and optimization of inner modules; Mer, LinearLayer).