bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reliability and validity of a non-linear index of heart rate variability to determine intensity thresholds
Authors: Sempere-Ruiz Noemí , Sarabia José Manuel , Baladzhaeva Sabina , Moya-Ramón Manuel
Published: February 2024

Exercise intensity distribution is crucial for exercise individualization, prescription, and monitoring. As traditional methods to determine intensity thresholds present limitations, heart rate variability (HRV) using DFA a1 has been proposed as a biomarker for exercise intensity distribution. This index has been associated with ventilatory and lactate thresholds in previous literature. This study aims to assess DFA a1’s reliability and validity in determining intensity thresholds during an incremental cycling test in untrained healthy adults. Sixteen volunteers (13 males and 3 females) performed two identical incremental cycling stage tests at least 1 week apart. First and second ventilatory thresholds, lactate thresholds, and HRV thresholds (DFA a1 values of 0.75 and 0.5 for HRVT1 and HRVT2, respectively) were determined in heart rate (HR), relative oxygen uptake (VO2rel), and power output (PO) values for both tests. We used intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), change in mean, and typical error for the reliability analysis, and paired t-tests, correlation coefficients, ICC, and Bland-Altman analysis to assess the agreement between methods. Regarding reliability, HRV thresholds showed the best ICCs when measured in PO (HRVT1: ICC = .87; HRVT2: ICC = .97), comparable to ventilatory and lactate methods. HRVT1 showed the strongest agreement with LA 2.5 in PO (p = 0.09, r = .93, ICC = .93, bias = 9.9 ± 21.1), while HRVT2 reported it with VT2 in PO (p = 0.367, r = .92, ICC = .92, bias = 5.3 ± 21.9). DFA a1 method using 0.75 and 0.5 values is reliable and valid to determine HRV thresholds in this population, especially in PO values.
Design and experimentation of multi-fruit envelope-cutting kiwifruit picking robot
Authors: Fu Min , Guo Shike , Chen Anyu , Cheng Renxuan , Cui Xiaoman
Published: February 2024

Currently kiwifruit picking process mainly leverages manual labor, which has low productivity and high labor intensity, meanwhile, the existing kiwifruit picking machinery also has low picking efficiency and easily damages fruits. In this regard, a kiwifruit picking robot suitable for orchard operations was developed in this paper for kiwifruit grown in orchard trellis style. First, based on the analysis of kiwifruit growth pattern and cultivation parameters, the expected design requirements and objectives of a kiwifruit picking robot were proposed, and the expected workflow of the robot in the kiwifruit orchard environment was given, which in turn led to a multi-fruit envelope-cutting kiwifruit picking robot was designed. Then, the D-H method was used to establish the kinematic Equations of the kiwifruit-picking robot, the forward and inverse kinematic calculations were carried out, and the Monte Carlo method was used to analyze the workspace of the robot. By planning the trajectory of the robotic arm and calculating critical nodes in the picking path, the scheme of trajectory planning of the robot was given, and MATLAB software was applied to simulate the motion trajectory as well as to verify the feasibility of the trajectory planning scheme and the picking strategy. Finally, a kiwifruit picking test bed was set up to conduct picking tests in the form of fruit clusters. The results show that the average time to pick each cluster of fruit was 9.7s, the picking success rate was 88.0%, and the picking damage rate was 7.3%. All the indicators met the requirements of the expected design of the kiwifruit-picking robot.
GacA reduces virulence and increases competitiveness in planta in the tumorigenic olive pathogen Pseudomonas savastanoi pv. savastanoi
Authors: Lavado-Benito Carla , Murillo Jesús , Martínez-Gil Marta , Ramos Cayo , Rodríguez-Moreno Luis
Published: February 2024

GacS/GacA is a widely distributed two-component system playing an essential role as a key global regulator, although its characterization in phytopathogenic bacteria has been deeply biased, being intensively studied in pathogens of herbaceous plants but barely investigated in pathogens of woody hosts. P. savastanoi pv. savastanoi (Psv) is characterized by inducing tumours in the stem and branches of olive trees. In this work, the model strain Psv NCPPB 3335 and a mutant derivative with a complete deletion of gene gacA were subjected to RNA-Seq analyses in a minimum medium and a medium mimicking in planta conditions, accompanied by RT-qPCR analyses of selected genes and phenotypic assays. These experiments indicated that GacA participates in the regulation of at least 2152 genes in strain NCPPB 3335, representing 37.9 % of the annotated CDSs. GacA also controls the expression of diverse rsm genes, and modulates diverse phenotypes, including motility and resistance to oxidative stresses. As occurs with other P. syringae pathovars of herbaceous plants, GacA regulates the expression of the type III secretion system and cognate effectors. In addition, GacA also regulates the expression of WHOP genes, specifically encoded in P. syringe strains isolated from woody hosts, and genes for the biosynthesis of phytohormones. A gacA mutant of NCPPB 3335 showed increased virulence, producing large immature tumours with high bacterial populations, but showed a significantly reduced competitiveness in planta. Our results further extend the role of the global regulator GacA in the virulence and fitness of a P. syringae pathogen of woody hosts.
Nurturing the scientific mind: resilience and job satisfaction among Saudi faculty
Authors: Asfahani Ahmed M.
Published: February 2024

This study examines the interplay between psychological resilience, job satisfaction and research motivation among teachers at Saudi Arabian universities. Particular attention is paid to the relationship between satisfaction and academic performance and well-being. The data is based on a survey of 321 faculty members, and descriptive statistics and correlations are used. The research instruments included a self-developed scale to measure these constructs, and data analysis was conducted using SPSS software. The findings revealed moderate job satisfaction levels, with a significant correlation between resilience and both job satisfaction and research motivation. Resilience was identified as a key predictor of job satisfaction, especially among professors compared to lecturers. Uniquely focused on the Saudi academic context, this study offers insights into culturally specific factors affecting academic faculty, underscoring the importance of enhancing resilience and satisfaction within academic settings. These implications align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals, suggesting targeted strategies to improve faculty well-being and performance.
Modality and terminology changes for behavioral health service delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic review
Authors: Elliott Kimberly S. , Nabulsi Eman H. , Sims-Rhodes Nicholas , Dubre Vandy , Barena Emily , Yuen Nelly , Morris Michael , Sass Sarah M. , Kennedy Bridget , Singh Karan P.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic prompted healthcare professionals to implement service delivery adaptations to remain in compliance with safety regulations. Though many adaptations in service delivery were reported throughout the literature, a wide variety of terminology and definitions were used.

Methods

To address this, we conducted a PRISMA review to identify service delivery adaptations across behavioral healthcare services in the United States from March 2020 to May 2022 and to identify variations in terminology used to describe these adaptations. We identified 445 initial articles for our review across eight databases using predetermined keywords. Using a two-round screening process, authors used a team approach to identify the most appropriate articles for this review.

Results

Our results suggested that a total of 14 different terms were used to describe service modality changes, with the most frequent term being telehealth (63%). Each term found in our review and the frequency of use across identified articles is described in detail.

Discussion

Implications of this review such as understanding modality changes during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond are discussed. Our findings illustrate the importance of standardizing terminology to enhance communication and understanding among professionals.
Languaging psychopathology: neurobiology and metaphor
Authors: Syed Adnan , Jacob Michael S.
Published: February 2024

Explanatory models of the mind inform our working assumptions about mental illness with direct implications for clinical practice. Neurobiological models assert that the mind can be understood in terms of genetics, chemistry, and neuronal circuits. Growing evidence suggests that clinical deployment of neurobiological models of illness may have unintended adverse effects on patient attitudes, public perception, provider empathy, and the effectiveness of psychiatric treatment. New approaches are needed to find a better language for describing (let alone explaining) the experience of mental illness. To address this gap, we draw upon interdisciplinary sources and semiotic theory to characterize the role of metaphor in the conceptualization and communication of psychopathology. We examine the metaphors recruited by contemporary neurobiological models and metaphor’s role in facilitating descriptive clarity or evocative creativity, depending on intention and context. These multiple roles reveal the implications of metaphorical reasoning in clinical practice, including cognitive flexibility, personalized communication, and uncertainty tolerance. With this analysis, we propose a clinical approach that embraces the meta-process of ongoing novel metaphor generation and co-elaboration, or languaging metaphors of psychopathology. Our goal is to bring attention to the value of employing ever-evolving, shapeable metaphorical depictions of psychiatric illness: metaphors that enable a capacity for change in individuals and society, reduce stigma, and nurture recovery.
Social determinants of health and health inequities in breast cancer screening: a scoping review
Authors: Jhumkhawala Vama , Lobaina Diana , Okwaraji Goodness , Zerrouki Yasmine , Burgoa Sara , Marciniak Adeife , Densley Sebastian , Rao Meera , Diaz Daniella , Knecht Michelle , Sacca Lea
Published: February 2024

Introduction

This scoping review aims to highlight key social determinants of health associated with breast cancer screening behavior in United States women aged ≥40  years old, identify public and private databases with SDOH data at city, state, and national levels, and share lessons learned from United States based observational studies in addressing SDOH in underserved women influencing breast cancer screening behaviors.

Methods

The Arksey and O’Malley York methodology was used as guidance for this review: (1) identifying research questions; (2) searching for relevant studies; (3) selecting studies relevant to the research questions; (4) charting the data; and (5) collating, summarizing, and reporting results.

Results

The 72 included studies were published between 2013 and 2023. Among the various SDOH identified, those related to socioeconomic status (n = 96) exhibited the highest frequency. The Health Care Access and Quality category was reported in the highest number of studies (n = 44; 61%), showing its statistical significance in relation to access to mammography. Insurance status was the most reported sub-categorical factor of Health Care Access and Quality.

Discussion

Results may inform future evidence-based interventions aiming to address the underlying factors contributing to low screening rates for breast cancer in the United States.
Predicting factors of survival rates among alpha- and beta-thalassemia patients: a retrospective 10-year data analysis
Authors: Iam-arunthai Kunapa , Suwanban Tawatchai , Thungthong Pravinwan , Chamnanchanunt Supat , Fucharoen Suthat
Published: February 2024

Background

Thalassemia is a genetic hemoglobinopathy in which a defective globin chain can cause transfusion-dependent anemia and other complications. As genotype interactions lead to variations in the clinical course among patients with thalassemia, clinical factors may help predict survival in the types of thalassemia complicated by gene interactions.

Aim

This study aimed to determine the clinical factors associated with survival in patients with thalassemia. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients with thalassemia older than 15 years between 2002 and 2020 that were available at the Rajavithi Hospital. Data on the clinical parameters, laboratory tests, treatments, and survival status were collected and analyzed.

Results

Of the 478 thalassemia patients included, 68.8% were women, and the mean age was 41 ± 17 years. The most common type of thalassemia was β-thalassemia (53.3%). Male sex, low body mass index, the thalassemia type, comorbidities, low hemoglobin level, high ferritin level, and regular blood transfusion were significantly associated with short-term survival. However, only the thalassemia type (β-thalassemia, p = 0.048) and the co-inheritance of the α- and β-thalassemia genotypes (p = 0.03) were independently associated with death. The overall survival rates among patients with α-thalassemia, β-thalassemia, and co-inheritance of the α- and β-thalassemia genotypes were 98.1%, 90.6%, and 75.0%, respectively. The death rate was 6.3%, and the most common cause of death was infection.

Conclusion

The thalassemia genotype was a predictive factor of survival, and co-inheritance of the α- and β-thalassemia genotypes results in a shorter-term survival compared with other types, especially transfusion-dependent thalassemia. These results can be applied in clinical settings to predict and possibly extend the life expectancy of patients with thalassemia.
A classification system for youth outpatient behavioral health services billed to medicaid
Authors: Rodríguez Gabriela M. , Pederson Casey A. , Garcia Dainelys , Schwartz Katherine , Brown Steven A. , Aalsma Matthew C.
Published: February 2024

Rates of youth behavioral health concerns have been steadily rising. Administrative data can be used to study behavioral health service utilization among youth, but current methods that rely on identifying an associated behavioral health diagnosis or provider specialty are limited. We reviewed all procedure codes billed to Medicaid for youth in one U.S. county over a 10-year period. We identified 158 outpatient behavioral health procedure codes and classified them according to service type. This classification system can be used by health services researchers to better characterize youth behavioral health service utilization.
Akkermansia muciniphila and herbal medicine in immune-related diseases: current evidence and future perspectives
Authors: Ding Xue , Meng Peng-Fei , Ma Xiu-Xia , Yue Jing-Yu , Li Liang-Ping , Xu Li-Ran
Published: February 2024

Akkermansia muciniphila is considered the “paradigm for next-generation beneficial microorganisms” and has been reported to help alleviat immune-related diseases. Evidence shows that herbal medicine can treat disease by regulating the abundance of A. muciniphila. Recent studies have revealed a link between A. muciniphila and immune-related diseases. Here, we systematically reviewed the association between A. muciniphila, herbal medicine, and immune-related diseases (including inflammatory bowel disease, human immunodeficiency virus, cancer immunotherapy, and immune-related liver injury). We also summarize the potential mechanisms of action of A. muciniphila and offer perspectives for future studies.
Differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells into insulin-producing islet-like clusters using nanofiltered cell culture medium
Authors: Thorngren Julia , Vasylovska Svitlana , Blanc Jules , Wu Lulu , Manukyan Levon , Mihranyan Albert , Lau Joey
Published: February 2024

The challenge of using patient-specific, autologous stem cell therapies in clinical settings is the need for advanced cell processing and expansion technologies. These include decentralized, small-scale manufacturing at the point of care in hospitals. The highest risk for contamination in cell-based therapy products comes from animal- and human-derived components such as serum, blood components, and growth factors. To mitigate the risk of adventitious microorganism contamination, preventive measures like size-exclusion virus removal filtration of cell media components can be employed. This article examines the impact of nanofiltration using nanocellulose-based virus clearance filter paper on the differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells into insulin-producing pancreatic islets (SC-islets). The cells were monitored for biomarkers using flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry along the 7-stage differentiation protocol. The produced SC-islets were evaluated functionally using low and high glucose stimulation under dynamic perifusion conditions. Pluripotent stem cells grown in culture media filtered through 20 nm cut-off nanocellulose filters showed similar expression of desired biomarkers at each stage compared to the control group. At the end of stage 7, SC-islets exhibited a rounded shape and strong expression of insulin, glucagon, and somatostatin in both the control and filtered media groups. The present study demonstrates that SC-islets differentiated with nanofiltered media were functional.
Preserving the self with artificial intelligence using VIPCare—a virtual interaction program for dementia caregivers
Authors: Francis Linda , Ghafurian Moojan
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Assistive technology is increasingly used to support the physical needs of differently abled persons but has yet to make inroads on support for cognitive or psychological issues. This gap is an opportunity to address another—the lack of contribution from theoretical social science that can provide insights into problems that cannot be seen. Using Affect Control Theory (ACT), the current project seeks to close that gap with an artificially intelligent application to improve interaction and affect for people with Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD). Using sociological theory, it models interactions with persons with ADRD based on self-sentiments, rather than cognitive memory, and informs a cellphone-based assistive tool called VIPCare for supporting caregivers.

Methods

Staff focus groups and interviews with family members of persons with ADRD in a long-term residential care facility collected residents’ daily needs and personal histories. Using ACT’s evaluation, potency, and activity dimensions, researchers used these data to formulate a self-sentiment profile for each resident and programmed that profile into the VIPCare application. VIPCare used that profile to simulate affectively intelligent social interactions with each unique resident that reduce deflection from established sentiments and, thus, negative emotions.

Results

We report on the data collection to design the application, develop self-sentiment profiles for the resident, and generate assistive technology that applies a sociological theory of affect to real world management of interaction, emotion, and mental health.

Discussion

By reducing trial and error in learning to engage people with dementia, this tool has potential to smooth interaction and improve wellbeing for a population vulnerable to distress.
Bread waste valorization: a review of sustainability aspects and challenges
Authors: Hafyan Rendra Hakim , Mohanarajan Jasmithaa , Uppal Manaal , Kumar Vinod , Narisetty Vivek , Maity Sunil K. , Sadhukhan Jhuma , Gadkari Siddharth
Published: February 2024

Bread waste (BW) poses a significant environmental and economic challenge in the United Kingdom (UK), where an estimated 20 million slices of bread are wasted daily. BW contains polysaccharides with great potential for its valorization into building block chemicals. While BW valorization holds tremendous promise, it is an emerging field with low technology readiness levels (TRLs), necessitating careful consideration of sustainability and commercial-scale utilization. This review offers a comprehensive assessment of the sustainability aspects of BW valorization, encompassing economic, environmental, and social factors. The primary objective of this review article is to enhance our understanding of the potential benefits and challenges associated with this approach. Incorporating circular bioeconomy principles into BW valorization is crucial for addressing global issues stemming from food waste and environmental degradation. The review investigates the role of BW-based biorefineries in promoting the circular bioeconomy concept. This study concludes by discussing the challenges and opportunities of BW valorization and waste reduction, along with proposing potential strategies to tackle these challenges.
Prognostic factors for surgical treatment of prolactin-secreting pituitary adenomas
Authors: Voznyak Oleksandr , Zinkevych Iaroslav , Lytvynenko Andrii , Hryniv Nazarii , Ilyuk Roman , Kobyliak Nazarii
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Usually, prolactinomas are treated with dopamine agonists (DA). Surgery is considered an option when the patient cannot bear or does not respond positively to DA therapy.

Aim

This study aims to determine the early and late outcomes of surgery, with particular emphasis on developing prognostic factors for surgical treatment and analyzing risk factors affecting the recurrence of hyperprolactinemia and prolactinoma.

Material and methods

This retrospective study was conducted at the Feofaniya Clinical Hospital of the State Administration of Affairs (Kyiv, Ukraine), evaluating 109 patients' records from 2009 to 2019. The main patients' inclusion criteria were: serum prolactin (PRL) level of more than 100 ng/ml, presence of pituitary adenoma (PA) on MRI, histologically approved PA by microscopy. According to the size of the prolactin-secreting PA (PSPAs) the selected 109 patients were divided into two groups: micro- (≤10 mm, n = 75) and macroadenoma group (10–40 mm, n = 34).

Results

1 month after the operation, PRL levels decreased by 87% (p < 0.001), 12 months—by 93% (p < 0.001). After receiving surgery and DA therapy for 12 months 77.1% of patients achieved biochemical remission. Out of the total number of patients observed, 15.6% (n = 17) had a Knosp score greater than 3. Additionally, in the macroadenoma group, the percentage of patients with a Knosp score greater than 3 was 41,2%, which was significantly higher as compared to the microadenoma group (4%, p < 0.001). In patients with microadenomas a weak reverse correlation between patients' age (r = −0.258, p < 0.026) and positive with tumor size (r = 0.251, p < 0.030) was revealed. In the macroadenoma group significant association was found only between preoperative serum PRL level and tumor size (r = 0.412, p < 0.016). The preoperative PRL can be used as a diagnostic marker for lack of early biochemical remission in patients with PSPAs with diagnostic accuracy 66.9%.

Conclusions

This study found that primary transsphenoidal surgery is an effective treatment in reaching PRL level control in patients with both micro- and macroprolactinomas. The correct and thorough selection of candidates for surgery is crucial to achieve postoperative serum PRL normalization in the vast majority of patients.
Can robotic gastric bypass be considered a valid alternative to laparoscopy? Our early experience and literature review
Authors: Pavone Giovanna , Pacilli Mario , Gerundo Alberto , Quazzico Andrea , Ambrosi Antonio , Tartaglia Nicola
Published: February 2024

Background

Robotic bariatric surgery serves as an alternative to laparoscopy. The technology provides the surgeon with an accurate three-dimensional view, allowing complex maneuvers while maintaining full control of the operating room.

Hypothesis

We report our experience with this innovative surgery compared with laparoscopy during Roux-en-Y gastric bypass to demonstrate its safety and feasibility. The aim of this study is to evaluate potential differences between the robotic and laparoscopic techniques.

Materials and methods

Our study retrospectively identified 153 consecutive obese patients who underwent either laparoscopic or robotic gastric bypass (RGB) procedures over a 2-year period at the Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia. Data on demographics, operative time, conversion rate, length of hospital stay, and mortality were collected and compared between two groups of patients: 82 patients who underwent laparoscopic procedures and 71 who underwent robotic procedures.

Results

We analyzed 153 patients who underwent gastric bypass with a mean age of 42.58 years, of whom 74 were female; 71 were treated with a robotic approach and 82 with a laparoscopic approach. The mean operative time was 224.75 ± 10.4 min for RGB (including docking time) and 101.22 min for laparoscopic gastric bypass (LGB) (p < 0.05), which is statistically significant. The median length of stay was 4.1 days for the RGB group and 3.9 days for the LGB group (p = 0.89). There is only one conversion to laparoscopy in the RGB group. We observed only one case of postoperative complications, specifically one episode of endoluminal bleeding in the laparoscopic group, which was successfully managed with medical treatment. No mortality was observed in either group.

Conclusion

The statistical analysis shows to support the robotic approach that had a lower incidence of complications but a longer operative duration. Based on our experience, the laparoscopic approach remains a technique with more haptic feedback than the robotic approach, making surgeons feel more confident.

This study has been registered on ClinicalTrial.gov Protocol Registration and Results System with this ID: NCT05746936 for the Organization UFoggia (https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05746936).
Impacts of reference population size and methods on the accuracy of genomic prediction for fleece traits in Inner Mongolia Cashmere Goats
Authors: Yan Xiaochun , Zhang Jiaxin , Li Jinquan , Wang Na , Su Rui , Wang Zhiying
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Inner Mongolia Cashmere Goats (IMCGs) are famous for its cashmere quality and it’s a unique genetic resource in China. Therefore, it is necessary to use genomic selection to improve the accuracy of selection for fleece traits in Inner Mongolia cashmere goats. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of methods (GBLUP, BayesA, BayesB, Bayesian LASSO, Bayesian Ridge Region) and the reference population size on accuracy of genomic selection in IMCGs.

Methods

This study fully utilizes the pedigree and phenotype records of fleece traits in 2255 individuals, genotype of 50794 SNPs after quality control, and environmental data to perform genomic selection of fleece traits. Then GBLUP and Bayes series methods (BayesA, BayesB, Bayesian LASSO, Bayesian Ridge Region) were used to perform estimates of genetic parameter and genomic breeding value. And the accuracy of genomic estimated breeding value (GEBV) is evaluated using the five-fold cross validation method. And the analysis of variance and multiple comparison methods were used to determine the best method for genomic selection in fleece traits of IMCGs. Further the different reference population sizes (500, 1000, 1500, and 2000) was set. Then the best method was applied to estimate genome breeding values, and evaluate the impact of reference population sizes on the accuracy of genome selection for fleece traits in IMCGs.

Results

It was found that the genomic prediction accuracy for each fleece trait in IMCGs by GBLUP method is highest, and it is significantly higher than that obtained by Bayesian method. The accuracy of breeding value estimation is 58.52% -68.49%. Also, it was found that the size of the reference population has a significant impact on the accuracy of genome prediction of fleece traits. When the reference population size is 2000, the accuracy of genomic prediction for each fleece trait is significantly higher than other levels, with accuracy of 55.47% -67.87%. This provides a theoretical basis for design a reasonable genome selection plan for Inner Mongolia cashmere goats in the later stag.
Relative Orbit Control Algorithms and Scenarios for the Inertial Alignment Hold Demonstration Mission by CubeSat Formation Flying
Authors: Jeon Soobin , Park Sang-Young , Kim Geuk-Nam
Published: February 2024

CANYVAL-C is a formation-flying mission that demonstrates a coronagraph utilizing two CubeSats. The coronagraph is a space telescope that blocks sunlight to examine the overcast regions around the sun. It is composed of optical and occult segments. Two spacecraft were aligned with respect to an inertial system to configure a virtual telescope using inertial alignment hold technology. The relative orbit control scenario for this mission involves rendezvous, differential air drag control, and inertial alignment holding. Orbit control algorithms and simple strategies that can be automatically constructed onboard have also been developed. For each maneuver, the control performance under the errors from navigation, attitude determination and control, and propulsion systems were assessed via Monte Carlo simulation, taking into account the hardware specifications and operations. In addition to the algorithm and strategy of this mission, the relative orbit control scenario was evaluated for its practicability using Monte Carlo simulations. The feasibility of this mission is ensured by a statistical analysis of the prospect of its success during its operation.
Bacterial Meningitis in Buffaloes in Brazil
Authors: Barbosa José Diomedes , Bomjardim Henrique dos Anjos , Barbosa Camila Cordeiro , Oliveira Carlos Magno Chaves , Costa Paulo Sérgio Chagas da , Ferreira Filho Carlos Eduardo da Silva , Silveira Natália da Silva e Silva , Duarte Marcos Dutra , Tondo Luís Antônio Scalabrin , Brito Marilene de Farias
Published: February 2024

Meningitis is the inflammation of the membranes surrounding the central nervous system and is poorly described in water buffaloes. Five cases of meningitis in adults buffaloes of the Murrah and Mediterranean breads were studied. All buffaloes came from a farm located in the municipality of Castanhal, Pará, Brazil at different times. Clinical examination showed neurological clinical signs, such as apathy, reluctance to move, spastic paresis especially of the pelvic limbs, hypermetria, difficulty getting up, pressing of the head into obstacles and convulsion. In three buffaloes, a large part of the horn had been lost, exposing the corresponding frontal sinus, through which a bloody to purulent exudate flowed. The hemogram revealed neutrophilic leukocytosis. At necropsy, adherence of the dura mater to the periosteum and a purulent to fibrinopurulent exudate were observed in the sulci of the cerebral cortex and on the pia mater over almost the entire surface of the brain and throughout the spinal cord. The cerebrospinal fluid had a cloudy aspect with fibrin filaments. The histopathology of buffaloes confirmed the diagnosis of bacterial fibrinopurulent meningitis. Buffaloes are susceptible to bacterial inflammation of the meninges due to fractures of the base of the horn and mostly present with neurological manifestations.
Prevalence of Systemic Hypertension and Control of Systolic Blood Pressure in a Cohort of 14 Dogs with Adrenal-Dependent Hypercortisolism during the First Year of Trilostane Treatment or after Adrenalectomy
Authors: García San José Paula , Pérez-Alenza María Dolores , Alonso-Miguel Daniel , González Sanz Sandra , Arenas Bermejo Carolina
Published: February 2024

Hypercortisolism in dogs is frequently associated with systemic hypertension (SH). However, there are no studies evaluating the changes in systolic blood pressure (SBP) in dogs with adrenal-dependent hypercortisolism (ADH) during trilostane treatment or after adrenalectomy and their response to antihypertensive treatments. For this reason, the objectives of this study were to evaluate the changes in SBP in dogs with ADH during the first year of trilostane treatment or after adrenalectomy, the relation with clinical control of hypercortisolism and certain laboratory parameters, and the response to antihypertensive drugs. Fourteen dogs newly diagnosed with ADH were prospectively included and evaluated at diagnosis (T0) and 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after (T1, T3, T6, and T12, respectively). Dogs were classified as hypertensive (HT; SBP ≥ 160 mmHg) and non-hypertensive. In HT dogs, benazepril was considered as the first-line drug, and, if necessary, amlodipine was prescribed. The prevalence of SH at T0 was 79%, and it was reduced to 25% at T12. Blood pressure (BP) was not associated with disease control or selected laboratory parameters at any endpoint. Only 22% of dogs with SH needed more than one drug to normalize their SBP. In all dogs surgically treated that were HT at T0, BP normalized at T3.
Seasonal Changes in Hemolymph Protein Level and Hypopharyngeal Gland Size Depending on Age and In-Nest Location of Honeybee Workers
Authors: Musila Jan , Přidal Antonín
Published: February 2024

A honeybee colony, as a super-organism, is regulated through age-polyethism. A honeybee worker’s age is considered by means of a chronological and biological approach. The biological age is estimated with physiologically related biological markers, e.g., total hemolymph protein content (THP) and hypopharyngeal gland size (HGs), which also vary seasonally. Contemporary insights into the age-related spatial workers’ distribution within the hive nest space regarding biological age are insufficiently clarified. This study aimed to monitor changes in selected physiological markers during the entire season in relation to worker age and their spatial position in the hive nest. THP content and HG size analysis was performed in nine colonies for the entire season to compare the physiological markers within and among the groups of the workers whose ages were known and sampled in different hive parts. Seasonal impact on the biomarkers’ development was confirmed in known-age workers. In the case of HGs, this impact was the most apparent in 4- and 5-week-old workers. For THP, the seasonal impact was the most obvious in 2-week-old workers. The highest THP was found in 1- and 2-week-old workers during the entire season. Biologically younger workers of the same age were located predominantly in upper hive parts consistently throughout the year and vice versa. These workers showed significantly higher THP in comparison with those sampled below. Regarding the chronological age, the downwards, spatially shifting mechanism of workers within the hive nest while they aged was characterized. We recommend storage of diluted hemolymph samples up to one month before performing an assay if necessary. The physiological context, relation to division of labor and benefits for beekeeping practices are discussed.
Population Analysis Identifies 15 Multi-Variant Dominant White Haplotypes in Horses
Authors: McFadden Aiden , Vierra Micaela , Robilliard Holly , Martin Katie , Brooks Samantha A. , Everts Robin E. , Lafayette Christa
Published: February 2024

The influence of a horse’s appearance on health, sentimental and monetary value has driven the desire to understand the etiology of coat color. White markings on the coat define inclusion for multiple horse breeds, but they may disqualify a horse from registration in other breeds. In domesticated horses (Equus caballus), 35 KIT alleles are associated with or cause depigmentation and white spotting. It is a common misconception among the general public that a horse can possess only two KIT variants. To correct this misconception, we used BEAGLE 5.4-phased NGS data to identify 15 haplotypes possessing two or more KIT variants previously associated with depigmentation phenotypes. We sourced photos for 161 horses comprising 12 compound genotypes with three or more KIT variants and employed a standardized method to grade depigmentation, yielding average white scores for each unique compound genotype. We found that 7 of the 12 multi-variant haplotypes resulted in significantly more depigmentation relative to the single-variant haplotypes (ANOVA). It is clear horses can possess more than two KIT variants, and future work aims to document phenotypic variations for each compound genotype.
Misalignment and Rub-Impact Coupling Dynamics of Power Turbine Rotor with Offset Disk
Authors: Nan Guofang , Yang Sirui , Yu Dengliang
Published: February 2024

When the dual rotor system of the aircraft engine is operating, the mass eccentricity of the power turbine rotor and the misalignment of the shaft coupling or the bearing will cause too large vibration of the rotor; this vibration leads to the rub-impact between the rotor and the casing. The power turbine rotor from the dual rotor system is taken as the research object in this paper. Considering the misalignment, the resulting rub-impact faults, the imbalance of rotor and the disk offset, the equation of motion for the system is developed according to the Lagrangian Equation, and then the Range-Kutta Method is adopted to solve the equation. The influence of the key parameters such as the rotating speed, the misalignment angle and the rub-impact clearance on the dynamics of the system is studied; the finite element analysis was carried out to validate the correctness of the theoretical modeling method. The results show that the rub-impact increases the stiffness of the system; the Hopf bifurcation occurs in the misalignment and rub-impact coupling system; the vibrational stability near the half of the switching speed slumps with the increase of the misalignment angle; with increasing of the stiffness, the number of the chaotic zone increases, and the range of the chaos is widening; enlarging the rub-impact clearance is beneficial to reduce the degree of the rub-impact system and enhance the stability of the system.
Reflecting Picasso in Glass
Authors: Welte Sandrine
Published: February 2024

Whereas Picasso’s work in ceramics, wood and bronze is rather well known, the body of his sculptures in glass remains an object of little research. In fact, as a thorough analysis reveals, they rarely find mention in publications or catalogues on Picasso and seldom are included in exhibitions or retrospectives on the great Spanish artist. This may on the one hand be attributed to a still prevailing perception of glass as a medium for industrial, functional or everyday purposes—hence discounting the material in terms of artistic output—while on the other to controversies of authorship, related to the question of ideation versus creation. Unlike ceramics or bronze, the realisation of blown glass sculpture hinges on the involvement of the maestro vetraio as the mediator between thought and form—thus resulting in a distancing between artwork and artist conditioned by the nature of the medium. Against this background, the paper aims at a better understanding of Picasso’s vision of sculpture through an examination of his creations in the vitreous medium. On these grounds, a closer look at Picasso’s works in glass is meant to highlight his unique ‘hand’ in terms of idiom, line and form.
Effects of Diesel Emissions on Black Carbon and Particle Number Concentrations in the Eastern U.S.
Authors: Posner Laura N. , Pandis Spyros N.
Published: February 2024

The effects of emissions of diesel engines on black carbon and particle number concentrations, as well as climate-relevant aerosol properties, are explored for a summertime period in the Eastern U.S. using the chemical transport model PMCAMx-UF. A 50% reduction in diesel particulate emissions results in lower (23%) black carbon mass concentrations, as expected, and similar changes both in magnitude (27–30%) and spatial pattern for the absorption coefficient. However, an average 2% increase in the total particle number concentrations is predicted due to a decrease in the coagulation and condensation sinks and, at the same time, a 2% decrease in N100 (particles larger than 100 nm) concentrations. The diesel reduction results suggest that mitigation of large diesel particles and/or particle mass emissions can reduce climate-relevant properties related to the absorption of black carbon and provide health benefits; however, the changes could also have the unintended effect of increased ultrafine particle number concentrations. Changes in cloud condensation nuclei are predicted to be significantly less than expected, assuming a proportional reduction during this photochemically active period. Doubling the diesel emissions results in a domain-averaged 3% decrease in total particle number concentrations and a 3% increase in N100 concentrations. PM2.5 BC concentrations increase on average by 46%, and similar changes (52–60%) are predicted for the absorption coefficient. Extinction coefficients for both perturbation simulations changed by only a few percent due to the dominance of scattering aerosols in the Eastern U.S. during this period characterized by high photochemical activity.
Analysis of Experimental Measurements of Particulate Matter (PM) and Lung Deposition Surface Area (LDSA) in Operational Faces of an Oil Shale Underground Mine
Authors: Sabanov Sergei , Qureshi Abdullah Rasheed , Korshunova Ruslana , Kurmangazy Gulim
Published: February 2024

Particulate matter (PM) in the context of underground mining results from various operations such as rock drilling and blasting, ore loading, hauling, crushing, dumping, and from diesel exhaust gases as well. These operations result in the formation of fine particles that can accumulate in the lungs of mineworkers. The lung deposited surface area (LDSA) concentration is a variant solution to evaluate potential health impacts. The aim of this study is to analyse PM and LDSA concentrations in the operational workings of the oil shale underground mine. Experimental measurements were carried out by a direct-reading real-time PM monitor, Dusttrak DRX, and a multimetric fine particle detector, Naneous Partector 2, during the loading and dumping processes using the diesel engine loader. Consequently, the analysis was conducted on PM, LDSA, particle surface area concentration (SA), average particle diameter (d), particle number concentration (PNC), and particle mass (PM0.3), producing a few valuable correlation factors. Averaged LDSA was around 1433 μm2/cm3 and reached maximum peaks of 2140 μm2/cm3 during the loading, which was mostly related to diesel exhaust emissions, and within the dumping 730 μm2/cm3 and 1840 μm2/cm3, respectively. At the same time, average PM1 was about 300 μg/ m3 during the loading, but within the dumping peaks, it reached up to 10,900 μg/ m3. During the loading phase, particle diameter ranged from 30 to 90 nm, while during the dumping phase peaks, it varied from 90 to 160 nm. On this basis, a relationship between PNC and particle diameter has been produced to demonstrate an approximate split between diesel particulate matter (DPM) and oil shale dust diameters. This study offers important data on PM and LDSA concentration that can be used for estimating potential exposure to miners at various working operations in the oil shale underground mines, and will be used for air quality control in accordance with establishing toxic aerosol health effects.
Accuracy of Dental Implant Placement with Dynamic Navigation—Investigation of the Influence of Two Different Optical Reference Systems: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Knipper Anne , Kuhn Katharina , Luthardt Ralph G. , Schnutenhaus Sigmar
Published: February 2024

This randomized prospective clinical study aims to analyze the differences between the computer-assisted planned implant position and the clinically realized implant position using dynamic navigation. In the randomized prospective clinical study, 30 patients were recruited, of whom 27 could receive an implant (BLT, Straumann Institut AG, Basel, Switzerland) using a dynamic computer-assisted approach. Patients with at least six teeth in their jaws to be implanted were included in the study. Digital planning was performed using cone beam tomography imaging, and the visualization of the actual situation was carried out using an intraoral scan. Two different workflows with differently prepared reference markers were performed with 15 patients per group. The actual clinically achieved implant position was recorded with scan bodies fixed to the implants and an intraoral scan. The deviations between the planned and realized implant positions were recorded using evaluation software. The clinical examinations revealed no significant differences between procedures A and B in the mesiodistal, buccolingual and apicocoronal directions. For the mean angular deviation, group B showed a significantly more accurate value of 2.7° (95% CI 1.6–3.9°) than group A, with a value of 6.3° (95% CI 4.0–8.7°). The mean 3D deviation at the implant shoulder was 2.35 mm for workflow A (95% CI 1.92–2.78 mm) and 1.62 mm for workflow B (95% CI 1.2–2.05 mm). Workflow B also showed significantly higher accuracy in this respect. Similar values were determined at the implant apex. The clinical examination shows that sufficiently accurate implant placement is possible with the dynamic navigation system used here. The use of different workflows sometimes resulted in significantly different accuracy results. The data of the present study are comparable with the published findings of other static and dynamic navigation procedures.
Nerve Regeneration and Gait Function Recovery with Implantation of Glucose/Mannose Conduits Using a Rat Model: Efficacy of Glucose/Mannose as a New Neurological Guidance Material
Authors: Yamamoto Osamu , Saito Risa , Ohseki Yuta , Hoshino Asami
Published: February 2024

Therapy with clinical nerve guidance conduits often causes functional incompleteness in patients. With the aim of better therapeutic efficacy, nerve regeneration and gait function were investigated in this study using a novel nerve guidance conduit consisting of glucose/mannose. The glucose/mannose nerve guidance conduits were prepared by filling the conduits with the glucose/mannose aqueous solutions for different kinematic viscosity, which were applied to sciatic nerve defects (6 mm gap) in a rat model. The nerve regeneration effect and the gait function recovery with the fabricated nerve guidance conduits were examined. From the results of the XRD measurement, the glucose/mannose conduits were identified as crystal structures of cellulose type II. Young’s modulus and the maximum tensile strength of the crystalline glucose/mannose conduits demonstrated good strength and softness for the human nerve. Above 4 weeks postoperative, macroscopic observation revealed that the nerve was regenerated in the defective area. In various staining results of the nerve tissue removed at 4 weeks postoperative, myelinated nerves contributing to gait function could not be observed in the proximal and distal sites to the central nerve. At 8–12 weeks postoperative, myelinated nerves were found at the proximal and distal sites in hematoxylin/eosin staining. Glia cells were confirmed by phosphotungstic acid–hematoxylin staining. Continuous nerve fibers were observed clearly in the sections of the regenerated nerves towards the longitudinal direction at 12 weeks postoperative. The angle between the metatarsophalangeal joint and the ground plane was approximately 93° in intact rats. At 4 weeks postoperative, walking was not possible, but at 8 weeks postoperative, the rats were able to walk, with an angle of 53°. At 12 weeks postoperative, the angle increased further, reaching 65°, confirming that the rats were able to walk more quickly than at 8 weeks postoperative. These results demonstrated that gait function in rats treated with glucose/mannose nerve guidance conduits was rapidly recovered after 8 weeks postoperative. The glucose/mannose nerve guidance conduit could be applied as a new promising candidate material for peripheral nerve regeneration.