bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-Term Spatial Restriction Generates Deferred Limited Space Use in a Zoo-Housed Chimpanzee Group
Authors: Duncan Luke Mangaliso , D’Egidio Kotze Chiara , Pillay Neville
Published: August 2022

Background: Appropriate space is considered paramount for good captive animal welfare. There has been a concerted effort by captive institutions, particularly zoos, to provide captive animals with relatively large, naturalistic enclosures which havehad demonstrated welfare benefits for animals. However, post-occupancy assessments of these enclosures tend to focus on short-term welfare-centredbehavioural effects or human perceptions of the enclosures and their effects and seldom consider spaceuse. We examined the space use of a group of eight captive chimpanzees 5 years after large-scale enclosure modification at the Johannesburg Zoo, South Africa. Methods: Instantaneous scan sampling was used to record behaviour and location of each chimpanzee at 5 min intervals in the new enclosure. From these 6.8 h of data, space-use patterns and subgroup (two or more chimpanzees within 10 m of each other) spacing were considered relative to local environmental variables, social conditions and the location and size of the previous smaller enclosures in which they had been kept. Results: Space use was heterogeneous, with some enclosure zones being used more than others, and 97.5% of subgroups restricted their spacing to the dimensions of the previous housing (10 m × 10 m). Conclusions: This pattern was not explained by individual behaviour, time of day, location, available space, weather, temperature or shade availability, inter-individual spacing or subgroup composition. We suggest the learned helplessness phenomenon may explain these observations and discuss the implications for both animal welfare and endangered species conservation.Regardless of the mechanism, we suggest that such effects could be avoided through the provision of large enclosures for captive animals.
Longitudinal Study Detects the Co-Carriage of ESBL and mcr-1 and -4 Genes in Escherichia coli Strains in a Portuguese Farrow-to-Finish Swine Herd
Authors: Lima Tiago , Fernandes Laura , Matias Marta , Mateus Ana , Silveira Eduarda , Domingues Sara , Pomba Constança , Da Silva Gabriela Jorge
Published: August 2022

Cephalosporins and polymyxins are employed in antimicrobial protocols to control and treat neonatal infections and post-weaning diarrhoea in swine operations. We conducted a longitudinal study to evaluate the colonization and transmission of antibiotic–resistant Escherichia coli in sows and their piglets in a farrow-to-finish operation, focusing on characterization of Extended Spectrum Beta-Lactamase (ESBL) and mcr genes, virulence traits and genetic relatedness. A total of 293 E. coli isolates were obtained from faecal samples collected in five time points. At birth blaCTX-M-1group cluster was detected in E. coli isolates from 9 sows and 49 piglets (73.41%), while in the following four’ piglets sampling moments it was detected in 91.8%, 57.6%, 71.4% and 97.4%. The gene mcr-1 was detected in E. coli from one sow and from three piglets from different litters at birth and increased in the first weeks of piglet life (68.85%, 100%, 90% and 8.1%). A new mcr-4 allele, mcr-4.7, was identified in 3.28%, 28.57%, 7.5% of E. coli isolates. Most mcr-positive E. coli isolates (96,7%) carried blaCTX-M-1Group genes and 93,33% carried both mcr-4 and mcr-1. CTX-M-1 and CTX-M-32 were the most predominant ESBLs. Plasmids belonged to IncI1, IncF and IncN groups. Most isolates belong to phylogenetic group B1; PAI IV536 marker was detected in nine isolates. The strains were kept in the different stages of the piglets’ life. The use of ceftiofur and colistin may explain the high prevalence and co-selection of blaCTX-M-1Group and mcr-1 and/or -4 genes, contributing to the maintenance of resistant and virulent isolates throughout the pig life cycle that may reach the food chain.
Giant Squid (Dosidicus gigas) Meal in Chicken Diets to Enrich Meat with n-3 Fatty Acids
Authors: Morales-Barrera Jesús , Carranco-Jáuregui María , Téllez-Isaías Guillermo , Sandoval-Mejía Ana , González-Alcorta Mariano , Carrillo-Domínguez Silvia
Published: August 2022

The main marketed parts of squid are the mantle, the head with tentacles, and fins. However, when the whole squid does not meet quality standards for human consumption it can be used for broiler feed. The objective of the study was to include giant squid (Dosidicus gigas) meal (GSM) in broiler rations to increase the content of the n-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic (EPA), docosapentaenoic (DPA), and docosahexaenoic (DHA) in chicken meat. Two hundred Ross 380 chickens, half male, half female, and one day old, were randomly distributed in a 4x2x2 factorial arrangement. The factors were the treatment (0%, 1.67%, 3.34%, and 5.01% of GSM in the diet), sex, and content of n-3 in the legs with thighs and the breasts. Each treatment had five repetitions with 10 birds each. There were no differences (p > 0.05) in the production parameters for both sexes. The contents of EPA, DPA, and DHA increased in the females and in the legs with thighs (p < 0.05) with GSM. Acceptance for the flavor and texture of meat was higher in the treatment with 1.67% GSM than in the other treatments. It is concluded that GSM is an alternative for increasing the amount of n-3 in chicken meat.
Thermal Environment and Behavior Analysis of Confined Cows in a Compost Barn
Authors: Laurindo Geovani Marques , Ferraz Gabriel Araújo e Silva , Damasceno Flavio Alves , Nascimento Joao Antônio Costa do , Santos Gabriel Henrique Ribeiro dos , Ferraz Patrícia Ferreira Ponciano
Published: August 2022

The compost barn system has become popular in recent years for providing greater animal well-being and quality of life, favoring productivity and longevity. With the increase in the use of compost barn in dairy farms, studies related to the thermal environment and behavior are of paramount importance to assess the well-being of animals and improve management, if necessary. This work aimed to characterize the thermal environment inside a compost barn during the four seasons of a year and to evaluate the standing and lying behavior of the cows through images. The experiment was carried out during March (summer), June (autumn), August (winter), and November (spring). Dry bulb temperature (tdb, °C), dew point temperature (tdp, °C), and relative humidity (RH,%) data were collected every 10 minutes during all analyzed days, and the temperature and humidity index (THI) was subsequently calculated. In order to analyze the behavior of the cows, filming of the barn interior was carried out during the evaluated days. Subsequently, these films were analyzed visually, and in an automated way to evaluate the behavior of these animals. For the automated analysis, an algorithm was developed using artificial intelligence tools, YOLOv3, so that the evaluation process could be automated and fast. It was observed that during the experimental period, the highest mean values of THI were observed during the afternoon and the autumn. The animals’ preference to lie down on the bed for most of the day was verified. It was observed that the algorithm was able to detect cow behavior (lying down or standing). It can be concluded that the behavior of the cows was defined, and the artificial intelligence was successfully applied and can be recommended for such use.
The Welfare of Dairy Cows in Pasture, Free Stall, and Compost Barn Management Systems in a Brazilian Subtropical Region
Authors: de Andrade Kogima Paula , Diesel Taciana Aparecida , Vieira Frederico Márcio Correa , Schogor Ana Luiza Bachmann , Volpini Alana Aparecida , Veloso Géssica Jaine , Ferraz Patrícia Ferreira Ponciano , Zotti Maria Luísa Appendino Nunes
Published: August 2022

The effect of milk production systems on the welfare of dairy cows has been studied worldwide, but studies that compare pasture-based, compost barn, and free stall systems, according to animal welfare, are more scarce. In this work, the welfare of 51 dairy herds, including 17 from each management system, was investigated through the application of the Welfare Quality® protocol. Descriptive statistics and the Kruskal–Wallis non-parametric method were used to analyze variables. In the present work, the welfare of the evaluated herds was significantly better in the pasture-based system than in the confinement systems. However, the pasture-based system presented weaknesses in providing water resources. The compost barn had fewer animal welfare critical points than the free stall system, as well as it was better than the free stall in measures related to comfort and health. The free stall did not present better scores than the other systems. It is concluded that the welfare of dairy cows is affected by the rearing system, with better scores, in most measures, in the pasture-based system, followed by the compost barn and, finally, the free stall.
Dietary Supplemental Chromium Yeast Improved the Antioxidant Capacity, Immunity and Liver Health in Broilers under High Stocking Density
Authors: Xin Xiangqi , Han Miaomiao , Wu Yuan , Dong Yuanyang , Miao Zhiqiang , Zhang Junzhen , Song Xianyi , Jia Ru , Su Yuan , Liu Ci , Bai Rui , Li Jianhui
Published: August 2022

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of different levels of yeast chromium on growth performance, organ index, antioxidant capacity, immune performance and liver health of broilers under high stocking density. A total of 684 1-day-old Arbor Acres broilers were selected and fed a common diet from 1 to 22 days of age. At the end of 22 days, broilers with similar weight were randomly divided into six treatments, with six replications in each treatment. The broilers in control groups were fed with a control diet and raised at low stocking density of broilers (14 broilers/m2, LSD) and high stocking density (20 broilers/m2, HSD). The broilers in treatment groups were fed with diets supplemented with 200, 400, 800 and 1600 µg Cr/kg chromium yeast (Cr-yeast) under HSD, respectively. The experimental period was 23~42 days. Compared with the LSD group, the HSD group significantly decreased the liver index (ratio of liver weight to live weight of broilers) of broilers (p < 0.05), the HSD group significantly increased the content of corticosterone (CORT) and the activities of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and decreased the prealbumin (PA) level in the serum (p < 0.05). HSD decreased the total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) contents in the serum, liver and breast, serum glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities, breast total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) activities and liver catalase (CAT) activities of broilers (p < 0.05). The HSD group significantly increased the total histopathological score (p < 0.05). Compared with the HSD group, adding 200, 400, and 1600 Cr-yeast significantly increased the liver index of broilers (p < 0.05), all HSD + Cr-yeast groups decreased the ALT activities (p < 0.05), and the HSD + 800 group significantly decreased the CORT contents and the ALP activities of the serum (p < 0.05); the HSD + 400, 800 and 1600 groups increased the PA contents of the serum (p < 0.05); HSD + 800 group significantly reduced the tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) contents of the serum (p < 0.05); moreover, the HSD + 400 group increased the GSH-Px activities of the serum (p < 0.05), the T-AOC and the T-SOD activities of the breast (p < 0.05) and the T-AOC and CAT activities of the liver (p < 0.05). Adding 800 Cr-yeast significantly decreased the total histopathological score (degree of hepatocyte edema and inflammatory cell infiltration) under HSD (p < 0.05). In summary, Cr-yeast can improve the antioxidant capacity and immune traits, and liver health of broilers under HSD. Based on the results of the linear regression analysis, the optimal supplementation of Cr-yeast in antioxidant capacity, immunity ability and liver health were at the range of 425.00–665.00, 319.30–961.00, and 800.00–1531.60 µg Cr/kg, respectively.
Formulation, In Vitro Characterization and Antibacterial Activity of Chitosan-Decorated Cream Containing Bacitracin for Topical Delivery
Authors: Khattak Rumana Zaib , Nawaz Asif , Alnuwaiser Maha Abdallah , Latif Muhammad Shahid , Rashid Sheikh Abdur , Khan Asghar Ali , Alamoudi Soha A.
Published: August 2022

(1) Background: Bacitracin is a broad spectrum antibiotic that is used against various microorganisms. Chitosan is a natural polymer that has been widely investigated as an antimicrobial agent for preventing and treating infections owing to its intrinsic antimicrobial properties, as well as its ability to effectively deliver extrinsic antimicrobial compounds to infected areas. Topical drug delivery offers important benefits for improving the therapeutic effect and reducing systemic side effects of administered compounds/drugs. The topical use of chitosan-decorated bacitracin-loaded cream improves the permeation of the drug across the skin and enhances the drug bioavailability by prolonging the residence time of the drug when applied topically, as well as producing synergistic effects and reducing the side effects of the drug. Topical chitosan-decorated cream can be a promising approach to administer the drug more efficiently and enhance the efficacy of treatment in wound healing and antibacterial activity. (2) Methods: This study was conducted to prepare, assess and investigate the synergistic antibacterial activity of a chitosan-coated bacitracin cream. The results were compared to the antibacterial activity of simple bacitracin-loaded cream. The prepared cream was evaluated for various in vitro characteristics such as rheology, pH, viscosity, drug content and antibacterial activity studies. (3) Result: The formulations were found to be stable regarding color, liquefaction and phase separation at all accelerated conditions. It was observed that with time, substantial variations in the pH of the preparations were found. The introduction of chitosan results in controlled release of the drug from the formulations. The antibacterial activity of the formulated creams was assessed with the disc diffusion method against Staphylococcus aureus(ATCC),Escherichiacoli (STCC),Pseudomonas aeruginosa(ATCC) and Bacillus cereus(ATCC). The strains, E. coli, S. aureus, P. aeruginosa and B. cereus were susceptible to 50 µg chitosan-decorated bacitracin cream, showing inhibition zones of 10 ± 0.6, 34 ± 1.5, 31 ± 0.76 and 21 ± 2.02 mm, respectively. The zones of inhibition for simple bacitracin-loaded cream were significantly smaller than chitosan-decorated cream, at 2 ± 0.2, 28 ± 0.92, 15 ± 0.5 and 11 ± 1.25 mm (ANOVA; p < 0.05), respectively. (4) Conclusion: It was observed that the zones of inhibition of simple bacitracin-loaded cream were significantly smaller than those of chitosan-decorated bacitracin-loaded cream. Chitosan synergistically improves the antimicrobial activity of bacitracin. Hence, the developed formulation was effective and should be considered as a suitable candidate for topical management of skin infections and wound healing.
Distribution and Genomic Characterization of Third-Generation Cephalosporin-Resistant Escherichia coli Isolated from a Single Family and Home Environment: A 2-Year Longitudinal Study
Authors: Feng Yin-Chih , Liou Ci-Hong , Ng Wailap Victor , Chen Feng-Jui , Hung Chih-Hsin , Liu Po-Yen , Liao Yu-Chieh , Wu Han-Chieh , Cheng Ming-Fang
Published: August 2022

Third-generation cephalosporin-resistant Escherichia coli (CREC), particularly strains producing extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs), are a global concern. Our study aims to longitudinally assemble the genomic characteristics of CREC isolates from fecal samples from an index patient with recurrent CREC-related urinary tract infections and his family and swabs from his home environment 12 times between 2019 and 2021 to investigate the distribution of antibiotic resistance genes. CREC identified using the VITEK 2 were subjected to nanopore whole-genome sequencing (WGS). The WGS of 27 CREC isolates discovered in 137 specimens (1 urine, 123 feces, and 13 environmental) revealed the predominance of ST101 and ST131. Among these sequence types, blaCTX-M (44.4%, n = 12) was the predominant ESBL gene family, with blaCTX-M-14 (n = 6) being the most common. The remaining 15 (55.6%) isolates harbored blaCMY-2 genes and were clonally diverse. All E. coli isolated from the index patient’s initial urine and fecal samples belonged to O25b:H4-B2-ST131 and carried blaCTX-M-14. The results of sequence analysis indicate plasmid-mediated household transmission of blaCMY-2 or blaCTX-M-55. A strong genomic similarity was discovered between fecal ESBL-producing E. coli and uropathogenic strains. Furthermore, blaCMY-2 genes were widely distributed among the CREC isolated from family members and their home environment.
Metronidazole for Treatment of Clostridioides difficile Infections in Brazil: A Single-Center Experience and Risk Factors for Mortality
Authors: Alves Joana Darc Freitas , Yamaguti Augusto , de Mendonça João Silva , de Melo Gamba Cristiano , Fonseca Cibele Lefreve , Paraskevopoulos Daniela K. S. , de Paula Alexandre Inacio , Hosino Nair , Costa Silvia Figueiredo , Guimarães Thaís
Published: August 2022

We describe the epidemiology of C. difficile infections (CDIs) focused on treatment and analyze the risk factors for mortality. This is a retrospective cohort study of CDI cases with a positive A/B toxin in the stool in 2017–2018. We analyzed the demographic data, comorbidities, previous use of antimicrobials, severity, and treatment, and we performed multivariate analysis to predict the 30-days mortality. We analyzed 84 patients, 37 (44%) of which were male, where the mean age was 68.1 years and 83 (99%) had comorbidities. The percentage of positivity of the A/B toxin was 11.6%, and the overall incidence density was 1.78/10,000 patient days. Among the patients, 65.4% had previous use of antimicrobials, with third-generation cephalosporins being the class most prescribed, and 22.6% of cases were severe. Treatment was prescribed for 70 (83.3%) patients, and there was no statistically significant difference between the initial treatment with metronidazole and vancomycin even in severe cases. The 30-day mortality was 7/84 (8.3%), and the risk factors associated with mortality was a severity score ≥2 (OR: 6.0; CI: 1.15–31.1; p = 0.03). In this cohort of CDI-affected patients with comorbidities and cancer, metronidazole was shown to be a good option for treating CDIs, and the severity score was the only independent risk factor for death.
Sweet Potato Is Not Simply an Abundant Food Crop: A Comprehensive Review of Its Phytochemical Constituents, Biological Activities, and the Effects of Processing
Authors: Laveriano-Santos Emily P. , López-Yerena Anallely , Jaime-Rodríguez Carolina , González-Coria Johana , Lamuela-Raventós Rosa M. , Vallverdú-Queralt Anna , Romanyà Joan , Pérez Maria
Published: August 2022

Nowadays, sweet potato (Ipomoea batata L.; Lam.) is considered a very interesting nutritive food because it is rich in complex carbohydrates, but as a tubercle, contains high amounts of health-promoting secondary metabolites. The aim of this review is to summarize the most recently published information on this root vegetable, focusing on its bioactive phytochemical constituents, potential effects on health, and the impact of processing technologies. Sweet potato is considered an excellent source of dietary carotenoids, and polysaccharides, whose health benefits include antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective activity, cardiovascular protection, anticancer properties and improvement in neurological and memory capacity, metabolic disorders, and intestinal barrier function. Moreover, the purple sweet potato, due to its high anthocyanin content, represents a unique food option for consumers, as well as a potential source of functional ingredients for healthy food products. In this context, the effects of commercial processing and domestic cooking techniques on sweet potato bioactive compounds require further study to understand how to minimize their loss.
Novel Insight into the Volatile Profile and Antioxidant Properties of Crocus sativus L. Flowers
Authors: Cerdá-Bernad Débora , Clemente-Villalba Jesús , Valero-Cases Estefanía , Pastor Joaquín-Julián , Frutos María-José
Published: August 2022

The current production system of saffron spice generates hundreds of tons of waste. Thus, the aim of this study was to value both saffron and its floral by-products as a source of natural bioactive extracts, studying the in vitro antioxidant capacity, the composition of the volatile fraction by GC-MS/MS, and the determination of crocetins esters by HPLC-PDA. Saffron stigmas and floral by-products showed a high content of polyphenols and different antioxidant properties. Floral bio-residues (tepals, stamens, and styles) presented a high concentration of anthocyanins, and stigmas had high levels of flavonoids, β-carotene, and total crocins. In stigmas, 25 different volatile components were found, with safranal the most relevant. Floral by-products volatile composition consisted of 55 compounds with varying amounts depending on the drying treatment; all the samples presented acetic acid, 2(5H)-furanone, and phenylethyl alcohol. Therefore, saffron stigmas and flower by-products represent a sustainable source of bioactive ingredients for innovative healthy food formulations.
γ-Glutamylcysteine Exerts Neuroprotection Effects against Cerebral Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury through Inhibiting Lipid Peroxidation and Ferroptosis
Authors: Zhang Ruyi , Lei Jianzhen , Chen Luyao , Wang Yanan , Yang Guocui , Yin Zhimin , Luo Lan
Published: August 2022

Ferroptosis is a non-apoptotic form of cell death driven by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation. Recent evidence indicates that inhibiting ferroptosis could alleviate cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (CIR) injury. γ-glutamylcysteine (γ-GC), an intermediate of glutathione (GSH) synthesis, can upregulate GSH in brains. GSH is the co-factor of glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), which is the negative regulator of ferroptosis. In this study, we explored the effect of γ-GC on CIR-induced neuronal ferroptosis and brain injury. We found that γ-GC significantly reduced the volume of cerebral infarction, decreased the loss of neurons and alleviated neurological dysfunction induced by CIR in rats. Further observation showed that γ-GC inhibited the CIR-caused rupture of the neuronal mitochondrial outer membrane and the disappearance of cristae, and decreased Fe2+ deposition and lipid peroxidation in rat cerebral cortices. Meanwhile, γ-GC altered the expression of some ferroptosis-related proteins in rat brains. Mechanistically, γ-GC increased the expression of GSH synthetase (GSS) for GSH synthesis via protein kinase C (PKC)ε-mediated activation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2). Our findings suggest that γ-GC not only serves as a raw material but also increases the GSS expression for GSH synthesis against CIR-induced lipid peroxidation and ferroptosis. Our study strongly suggests that γ-GC has potential for treating CIR injury.
Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) as a Cosmeceutical to Increase Dermal Collagen for Skin Antiaging Purposes: Emerging Combination Therapies
Authors: Boo Yong Chool
Published: August 2022

Ascorbic acid (AA) is an essential nutrient and has great potential as a cosmeceutical that protects the health and beauty of the skin. AA is expected to attenuate photoaging and the natural aging of the skin by reducing oxidative stress caused by external and internal factors and by promoting collagen gene expression and maturation. In this review, the biochemical basis of AA associated with collagen metabolism and clinical evidence of AA in increasing dermal collagen and inhibiting skin aging were discussed. In addition, we reviewed emerging strategies that have been developed to overcome the shortcomings of AA as a cosmeceutical and achieve maximum efficacy. Because extracellular matrix proteins, such as collagen, have unique amino acid compositions, their production in cells is influenced by the availability of specific amino acids. For example, glycine residues occupy 1/3 of amino acid residues in collagen protein, and the supply of glycine can be a limiting factor for collagen synthesis. Experiments showed that glycinamide was the most effective among the various amino acids and amidated amino acids in stimulating collagen production in human dermal fibroblasts. Thus, it is possible to synergistically improve collagen synthesis by combining AA analogs and amino acid analogs that act at different stages of the collagen production process. This combination therapy would be useful for skin antiaging that requires enhanced collagen production.
The Azadirachta indica (Neem) Seed Oil Reduced Chronic Redox-Homeostasis Imbalance in a Mice Experimental Model on Ochratoxine A-Induced Hepatotoxicity
Authors: Nikolova Galina , Ananiev Julian , Ivanov Veselin , Petkova-Parlapanska Kamelia , Georgieva Ekaterina , Karamalakova Yanka
Published: August 2022

Liver damage severity depends on both the dose and the exposure duration. Oxidative stress may increase the Ochratoxine-A (OTA) hepatotoxicity and many antioxidants may counteract toxic liver function. The present study aims to investigate the hepatoprotective potential of Azadirachta indicaA (A. indica; neem oil) seed oil to reduce acute oxidative disorders and residual OTA toxicity in a 28-day experimental model. The activity of antioxidant and hepatic enzymes, cytokines and the levels of oxidative stress biomarkers –MDA, GSPx, Hydroxiproline, GST, PCC, AGEs, PGC-1, and STIR-1 were analyzed by ELISA. The free radicals ROS and RNS levels were measured by EPR. The protective effects were studied in BALB/C mice treated with A. indica seed oil (170 mg/kg), alone and in combination with OTA (1.25 mg/kg), by gavage daily for 28 days. At the end of the experiment, mice treated with OTA showed changes in liver and antioxidant enzymes, and oxidative stress parameters in the liver and blood. A. indica oil significantly reduced oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation compared to the OTA group. In addition, the hepatic histological evaluation showed significant adipose tissue accumulation in OTA-treated tissues, while treatment with 170 mg/kg A. indica oil showed moderate adipose tissue accumulation.
Oxidative Stress and High-Mobility Group Box 1 Assay in Dogs with Gastrointestinal Parasites
Authors: Pugliese Michela , Napoli Ettore , Monti Salvatore , Biondi Vito , Zema Elena , Passantino Annamaria
Published: August 2022

This study aimed to evaluate the concentration of reactive oxidative metabolites, the antioxidant barrier, thiol groups of plasma compounds, and high-mobility group box 1 in shelter dogs naturally infected with helminths. In addition, the correlation between clinical signs and oxidative stress was investigated. Sixty-six (41 male and 25 female) adult mixed-breed dogs housed in a shelter with the diagnosis of gastrointestinal nematodes (i.e., Ancylostoma spp., Uncinaria stenocephala, Toxocara canis, Toxascaris leonina, or Trichuris vulpis) were enrolled in Group 1 (G1) and twenty healthy adult dogs were included in Group 2 (G2), which served as the control. A clinical assessment was performed using a physician-based scoring system. Oxidative stress variables and high-mobility group box 1 were assessed and compared by the means of unpaired t-tests (p < 0.05). Spearman’s rank correlation was performed to calculate the correlation between oxidative stress variables, high-mobility group box 1, hematological parameters, and clinical signs. The results showed statistically significant values for reactive oxidative metabolites, thiol groups of plasma compounds, and high-mobility group box 1 in G1. Negative correlations between thiol groups and the number of red cells and hemoglobin were recorded. These preliminary results support the potential role of oxidative stress and HGMB-1 in the pathogenesis of gastrointestinal helminthiasis in dogs.
Role of Cholesterol in the Regulation of Hydrogen Sulfide Signaling within the Vascular Endothelium
Authors: Mendiola Perenkita J. , Morin Emily E. , Gonzalez Bosc Laura V. , Naik Jay S. , Kanagy Nancy L.
Published: August 2022

H2S is a gaseous signaling molecule enzymatically produced in mammals and H2S-producing enzymes are expressed throughout the vascular wall. We previously reported that H2S-induced vasodilation is mediated through transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 4 (TRPV4) and large conductance (BKCa) potassium channels; however, regulators of this pathway have not been defined. Previous reports have shown that membrane cholesterol limits activity of TRPV4 and BKCa potassium channels. The current study examined the ability of endothelial cell (EC) plasma membrane (PM) cholesterol to regulate H2S-induced vasodilation. We hypothesized that EC PM cholesterol hinders H2S-mediated vasodilation in large mesenteric arteries. In pressurized, U46619 pre-constricted mesenteric arteries, decreasing EC PM cholesterol in large arteries using methyl-β-cyclodextrin (MBCD, 100 µM) increased H2S-induced dilation (NaHS 10, 100 µM) but MBCD treatment had no effect in small arteries. Enface fluorescence showed EC PM cholesterol content is higher in large mesenteric arteries than in smaller arteries. The NaHS-induced vasodilation following MBCD treatment in large arteries was blocked by TRPV4 and BKCa channel inhibitors (GSK219384A, 300 nM and iberiotoxin, 100 nM, respectively). Immunohistochemistry of mesenteric artery cross-sections show that TRPV4 and BKCa are both present in EC of large and small arteries. Cholesterol supplementation into EC PM of small arteries abolished NaHS-induced vasodilation but the cholesterol enantiomer, epicholesterol, had no effect. Proximity ligation assay studies did not show a correlation between EC PM cholesterol content and the association of TRPV4 and BK. Collectively, these results demonstrate that EC PM cholesterol limits H2S-induced vasodilation through effects on EC TRPV4 and BKCa channels.
Using Aspect-Level Sentiments for Calling App Recommendation with Hybrid Deep-Learning Models
Authors: Aslam Naila , Xia Kewen , Rustam Furqan , Hameed Afifa , Ashraf Imran
Published: August 2022

The rapid and wide proliferation of mobile phones has led to accelerated demand for mobile applications (apps). Consequently, a large number of mobile apps have been developed and deployed on the Google and Apple Play stores. Calling apps hold special importance in this regard by offering the services of sharing messages, making video calls, and sending audio messages, free of cost. Although each app has its own set of features, different apps can provide higher levels of satisfaction for the user, and aspect analysis is often overlooked by existing studies. This study presents an aspect-level analysis of IMO, Skype, Telegram, WeChat, and WhatsApp regarding the services offered for the account, app, call, message, update, video, and working features. A large collected dataset from the Google Play store is utilized for aspect extraction and analysis using the Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) model. Apps are analyzed using LDA-extracted aspects and recommended regarding users’ priorities of call, message, and video requirements. Sentiment analysis is adopted to analyze user sentiments regarding apps as well as to aid in the aspect analysis. For sentiment analysis, a novel ensemble model of a gated recurrent unit and convolutional neural network is presented, which obtains a 94% accuracy score.
Thin Dielectric Layers Evaluation Using Tunable Split-Ring Resonator Based Metasurface in THz Frequency Range
Authors: Gora Paulina , Lopato Przemyslaw
Published: August 2022

The paper presents the evaluation of thin dielectric layers using a tunable split-ring resonator-based metasurface in the THz frequency range. Tunable unit cells of a metasurface allow its resonant frequency variation using some external excitation. This can be done in various ways. In this work, the behavior of such a metasurface is investigated by monitoring the resonant frequency value when the unit cell geometry is changed. Such behavior is utilized for the quality evaluation of a thin dielectric layer placed in vicinity of a metasurface. A change in dielectric permittivity noticeably affects the resonant frequency of a metasurface. In order to examine the state of the material under test, finite element method simulations were made for a 15 µm thin layer. As a result, the approximation-based relations between resonant frequencies (obtained for various geometries of structural element—in tunability range) and dielectric parameters of the examined material were derived. These relations carry more information than in the case of just one resonant frequency (the case of a non-tunable metasurface) and can be utilized for permittivity evaluation.
Requesting Help Module Interface Design on Key Partial Video with Action and Augmented Reality for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Wang Chuan-Po , Tsai Cheng-Hui , Lee Yann-Long
Published: August 2022

Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have marked difficulty with vocabulary, lack of language, or shortcomings with their ability to organize their oral expression; thus, they cannot effectively communicate with others. In particular, people with moderate or severe disabilities cannot systematically narrate an incident and cannot follow pragmatic rules provided by others. Their attempts at standard everyday conversation lead to cognitive problems. When children with ASD are faced with difficult circumstances, they are usually unable to seek help from others, which in turn can result in their being unable to communicate effectively. This research focused on three child participants with ASD and language disorders. The goal was to strengthen the effectiveness of their requesting help and to organize their oral expression, to use requesting help modules, to remove static key images, and to use augmented reality (AR) combined with the dynamic video clips in key partial video with action (KPV). This study developed request-assistance training in conjunction with an auto organizational menu (AOM), multiple case studies and withdrawal designs, training-response methods, and a comparison of outcomes. The proposed AR sentence intervention effectively increased the children’s desire to communicate with others and the accuracy rate of their help requests, and increased their level of communication. We conclude that the interface of our requesting help modules is efficacious enough to assist children with ASD at different levels. The proposed AR sentence intervention helps them build scenarios by themselves, helps them organize communication with their peers, and assists them to request help.
Special Issue on the Applications of Molecularly Imprinted Films
Authors: Sarbu Andrei
Published: August 2022

Modern separation science and technology require the development of new materials with enhanced properties that are able to separate a substance from complex matrices [...]
Construction Material Selection by Using Multi-Attribute Decision Making Based on q-Rung Orthopair Fuzzy Aczel–Alsina Aggregation Operators
Authors: Khan Muhammad Rizwan , Wang Haolun , Ullah Kifayat , Karamti Hanen
Published: August 2022

A contribution of this article is to introduce new q-rung Orthopair fuzzy (q-ROF) aggregation operators (AOs) as the consequence of Aczel–Alsina (AA) t-norm (TN) (AATN) and t-conorm (TCN) (AATCN) and their specific advantages in handling real-world problems. In the beginning, we introduce a few new q-ROF numbers (q-ROFNs) operations, including sum, product, scalar product, and power operations based on AATN and AATCN. At that point, we construct a few q-ROF AOs such as q-ROF Aczel–Alsina weighted averaging (q-ROFAAWA) and q-ROF Aczel–Alsina weighted geometric (q-ROFAAWG) operators. It is illustrated that suggested AOs have the features of monotonicity, boundedness, idempotency, and commutativity. Then, to address multi-attribute decision-making (MADM) challenges, we develop new strategies based on these operators. To demonstrate the compatibility and performance of our suggested approach, we offer an example of construction material selection. The outcome demonstrates the new technique’s applicability and viability. Finally, we comprehensively compare current procedures with the proposed approach.
Research on Chinese Medical Entity Recognition Based on Multi-Neural Network Fusion and Improved Tri-Training Algorithm
Authors: Qi Renlong , Lv Pengtao , Zhang Qinghui , Wu Meng
Published: August 2022

Chinese medical texts contain a large number of medically named entities. Automatic recognition of these medical entities from medical texts is the key to developing medical informatics. In the field of Chinese medical information extraction, annotated Chinese medical text data are very few. In the named entity recognition task, there is insufficient labeled data, which leads to low model recognition performance. Therefore, this paper proposes a Chinese medical entity recognition model based on multi-neural network fusion and the improved Tri-Training algorithm. The model performs semi-supervised learning by improving the Tri-Training algorithm. According to the characteristics of the medical entity recognition task and medical data, the method in this paper is improved in terms of the division of the initial sub-training set, the construction of the base classifier, and the integration of the learning voting method. In addition, this paper also proposes a multi-neural network fusion entity recognition model for base classifier construction. The model learns feature information jointly by combining Iterated Dilated Convolutional Neural Network (IDCNN) and BiLSTM. Through experimental verification, the model proposed in this paper outperforms other models and improves the performance of the Chinese medical entity recognition model by incorporating and improving the semi-supervised learning algorithm.
Prediction of Elastic Modulus for Fibre-Reinforced Soil-Cement Mixtures: A Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Owusu-Ansah Dominic , Tinoco Joaquim , Correia António A. S. , Oliveira Paulo J. Venda
Published: August 2022

Soil-cement mixtures reinforced with fibres are an alternative method of chemical soil stabilisation in which the inherent disadvantage of low or no tensile or flexural strength is overcome by incorporating fibres. These mixtures require a significant amount of time and resources for comprehensive laboratory characterisation, because a considerable number of parameters are involved. Therefore, the implementation of a Machine Learning (ML) approach provides an alternative way to predict the mechanical properties of soil-cement mixtures reinforced with fibres. In this study, Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs), Support Vector Machines (SVMs), Random Forest (RF), and Multiple Regression (MR) algorithms were trained for predicting the elastic modulus of soil-cement mixtures reinforced with fibres. For ML algorithms training, a dataset of 121 records was used, comprising 16 properties of the composite material (soil, binder, and fibres). ANN and RF showed a promising determination coefficient (R2 ≥ 0.93) on elastic modulus prediction. Moreover, the results of the proposed models are consistent with the findings that the fibre and binder content have a significant effect on the elastic modulus.
Method for 2D-3D Registration under Inverse Depth and Structural Semantic Constraints for Digital Twin City
Authors: Hu Xiaofei , Zhou Yang , Shi Qunshan
Published: August 2022

A digital twin city maps a virtual three-dimensional (3D) city model to the geographic information system, constructs a virtual world, and integrates real sensor data to achieve the purpose of virtual–real fusion. Focusing on the accuracy problem of vision sensor registration in the virtual digital twin city scene, this study proposes a 2D-3D registration method under inverse depth and structural semantic constraints. First, perspective and inverse depth images of the virtual scene were obtained by using perspective view and inverse-depth nascent technology, and then the structural semantic features were extracted by the two-line minimal solution set method. A simultaneous matching and pose estimation method under inverse depth and structural semantic constraints was proposed to achieve the 2D-3D registration of real images and virtual scenes. The experimental results show that the proposed method can effectively optimize the initial vision sensor pose and achieve high-precision registration in the digital twin scene, and the Z-coordinate error is reduced by 45%. An application experiment of monocular image multi-object spatial positioning was designed, which proved the practicability of this method, and the influence of model data error on registration accuracy was analyzed.
Free Space Optics Communication for Ultra-High-Speed Train Running in Evacuated Tube
Authors: Al-Mohammed Hasan Abbas , Yaacoub Elias
Published: August 2022

This paper develops a novel communication method for an ultra-high-speed train that runs in an evacuated tube. The proposed method significantly reduces the number of needed base stations to provide adequate coverage and data rates. Moreover, the time connectivity for each base station was enhanced considerably. The proposed method can provide improvements in terms of transmitted power and received power, either fixed or variable; this method offers a fixed or variant data rate. Moreover, the paper studies the effects of the divergence angle on transmitted and received power. Additionally, the proposed communication procedure might produce a system with a fixed data rate, such as 1.25 Gbps. It can also create a design with adaptive divergence angles (that can be altered dynamically) depending on the train distance to the base station. The results show that this method is promising for working for an ultra-high-speed train that runs in an evacuated tube. It can reduce the base stations number from 500 to less than 10 base stations with respect to the data rate and power consumption. Furthermore, a new handover method is proposed and addressed in this work.
Identification of Dynamic Parameters and Frequency Response Properties of Active Hydraulic Mount with Oscillating Coil Actuator: Theory and Experiment
Authors: Fan Rang-Lin , Fei Zhen-Nan
Published: August 2022

Active hydraulic mounts (AHMs) provide an effective solution for refining ride comfort noise and vibration in passenger cars. AHMs with inertia tracks, decoupler membranes, and oscillating coil actuators (AHM-IT-DM-OCAs) have been extensively studied owing to their compact structures and strong damping characteristics in the low-frequency band. This study focuses on the full parameter identification based on the distinct features of external dynamics, which can be used to obtain an accurate and reliable estimate of the transfer functions required for active control algorithms. A lumped parameter model was established for the AHM-IT-DM-OCAs, and the analytical frequency bands were defined by the two resonance frequencies of the fluid channel and actuator mover. Methods for nonlinear model simplification were proposed in different bands and verified theoretically. Based on the simplified models, the distinct features of the active and passive dynamics are successively revealed, which include three resonances and seven horizontal segments. Subsequently, a series of experimental studies on the distinct features were carried out, which agreed well with the theoretical results. However, owing to the limitations of the test equipment and fixture modalities, only the distinct features of one fixed point, two resonance peaks, and three horizontal segments can be used for parameter identification. Based on the validated distinct features, a procedure for full parameter identification is proposed, and all six key parameters are identified. The obtained results showed good consistency and rationality, indicating that this approach can be used for the transfer function estimation of the primary and secondary paths of the AHM-IT-DM-OCAs.
Droplet Formation and Impingement Dynamics of Low-Boiling Refrigerant on Solid Surfaces with Different Roughness under Atmospheric Pressure
Authors: Chen Shu-Yan , Zhu Dong-Qing , Xing Hong-Jie , Zhao Qin , Zhou Zhi-Fu , Chen Bin
Published: August 2022

The dynamic behavior of droplet impingement is one of the most important processes of spray cooling. Although refrigerants with a low boiling point have been widely used in spray cooling, their high volatility makes it difficult to generate a stable droplet under atmospheric pressure, and thus the dynamic behavior of droplet impingement is rarely reported. Therefore, it is of great significance to study the behavior of refrigerant droplet impingement to fill the relevant research gaps. In this paper, an experimental system for single refrigerant droplet generation and impingement at atmospheric pressure has been established. By means of high-speed photography technology, the morphology and dynamics of R1336mzz(Z) droplet impingement on grooved carbon steel walls have been studied. Phenomena such as a truncated sphere, boiling, and finger-shaped disturbance were observed, and the reasons responsible for them were analyzed. The effects of Weber number (We) and surface roughness (Ra) on droplet spreading factor (β) were investigated quantitatively. Higher We always causes a larger βmax, while Ra has a different influence on βmax. The Cassie–Wenzel transition occurs when Ra increases from 1.6 μm to 3.2 μm, leading to a rapid decrease in βmax. An empirical formula has been proposed to predict βmax under different conditions.
Analysis and Evaluation of Clustering Techniques Applied to Wireless Acoustics Sensor Network Data
Authors: Pita Antonio , Rodriguez Francisco J. , Navarro Juan M.
Published: August 2022

Exposure to environmental noise is related to negative health effects. To prevent it, the city councils develop noise maps and action plans to identify, quantify, and decrease noise pollution. Smart cities are deploying wireless acoustic sensor networks that continuously gather the sound pressure level from many locations using acoustics nodes. These nodes provide very relevant updated information, both temporally and spatially, over the acoustic zones of the city. In this paper, the performance of several data clustering techniques is evaluated for discovering and analyzing different behavior patterns of the sound pressure level. A comparison of clustering techniques is carried out using noise data from two large cities, considering isolated and federated data. Experiments support that Hierarchical Agglomeration Clustering and K-means are the algorithms more appropriate to fit acoustics sound pressure level data.
An Overview of Non-Isolated Hybrid Switched-Capacitor Step-Up DC–DC Converters
Authors: Rosas-Caro Julio C. , Mayo-Maldonado Jonathan C. , Valdez-Resendiz Jesus E. , Alejo-Reyes Avelina , Beltran-Carbajal Francisco , López-Santos Oswaldo
Published: August 2022

The increasing interest in renewable energy sources has brought attention to large voltage-gain dc–dc converters; among the different available solutions to perform a large voltage-gain conversion, this article presents an overview of non-isolated dc–dc converter topologies that utilize switched-capacitor circuits, i.e., diode-capacitors voltage multipliers. The review includes combinations of a traditional power stage with a diode-capacitor-based voltage multiplier, such as the multilevel boost converter. This article starts by reviewing switched-capacitor (SC) circuits, different topologies, and different types of charge exchange; it provides a straightforward analysis to understand the discharging losses. It then covers the multilevel boost converter and other topologies recently introduced to the state-of-the-art. Special attention is put on SC circuits with resonant charge interchange that have recently been probed to achieve very good efficiency. An additional contribution of the article is new proof of the discharging losses in resonant switched-capacitor circuits focused on the initial and final stored energy in capacitors, and this proof explains the relatively large efficiency obtained with SC resonant converters.