bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Vaccine Efficacy Against the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron: A Systemic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zou Yuntao , Huang Doudou , Jiang Qian , Guo Yanglin , Chen Chider
Published: July 2022

Background

COVID-19 is a respiratory illness caused by SARS-CoV-2. The most recent variant is Omicron (line B.1.1.529), which was first identified in South Africa in November 2021. The concern with this variant is the ineffectiveness of vaccines currently available. We aim to systematically evaluate the effectiveness of the currently available COVID-19 vaccines and boosters for the Omicron variant.

Methods

We searched the PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library and Web of Science databases from inception to June 5th, 2022. Studies that examined the effectiveness of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines against the Omicron variant infection were included. Random-effects model was used to estimate the pooled vaccine effectiveness against the Omicron variant.

Results

A total of 13 studies were included to evaluate the effectiveness of the vaccine against the Omicron variant, and 11 studies were included to compare the effectiveness between the two-dose and three-dose (booster) vaccinations. Full vaccination (two-dose with or without booster) showed a protective effect against the Omicron variant compared to no vaccination (OR = 0.62, 95% CI: 0.56–0.69), while the effectiveness decreased significantly over 6 months after the last dose. The two-dose vaccination plus booster provided better protection against the Omicron variant compared to the two-dose vaccination without booster (OR = 0.60, 95% CI: 0.52–0.68). Additional analysis was performed for the most commonly used vaccines in the United Staes: BNT162b2(Pfizer) (OR = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.52–0.82) and mRNA-1273(Moderna) (OR = 0.67, 95% CI: 0.58–0.88) vaccines in the US, which showed similar effectiveness compared to no vaccination.

Conclusions

The full dose of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination effectively reduces infection from the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant; however, the effectiveness wanes over time. The booster vaccine provides additional protection against the Omicron variant.
Role of Built Environments on Physical Activity and Health Promotion: A Review and Policy Insights
Authors: Zhong Jingjing , Liu Wenting , Niu Buqing , Lin Xiongbin , Deng Yanhua
Published: July 2022

As urbanization and motorization continue worldwide, various health issues have emerged as a burden between individuals, families and governments at all levels. Under the prevalence of chronic disease, this review synthesizes research on the impact of the various built environments on the multiple health outcomes from a methodological and mechanistic perspective. Besides, it attempts to provide useful planning and policy implications to promote physical activity and health benefits. The finds show that: (1) Current literature has used a variety of dataset, methods, and models to examine the built environment–health benefit connections from the perspective of physical activity; (2) The prevalence of chronic diseases is inextricably linked to the built environment, and policy interventions related to physical activity and physical and mental wellbeing of urban residents should be emphasized; (3) The impact of the built environment on health is manifested in the way various elements of the physical environment guide the lifestyle of residents, thereby influencing physical activity and travel; (4) Given the changes that have occurred in the built environment during the current urban expansion, the link between urban planning and the public health sector should be strengthened in the future, and the relevant authorities should actively pursue policies that promote urban public health in order to improve the health of residents. Finally, it proposes potential policy insights for urban planning and development toward a healthier city and society.
Enhancing Person-Centered Audiologic Rehabilitation: Exploring the Use of an Interview Tool Based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health Core Sets for Hearing Loss
Authors: Granberg Sarah , Skagerstrand Åsa
Published: July 2022

Health care interventions that are intended to improve hearing should be based on the results of individual patient assessments. To improve these assessments, the feasibility of an International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF)-based interview tool was tested in a single clinical setting in Sweden. Audiologists participating in the study used the interview tool during a four-week testing period and provided written reflections after each session. The use of this tool was also evaluated in a focus group interview that took place after the completion of the project. The results of this study identified both process-related and structure-related factors that were highly relevant to the implementation of this interview tool. Overall, the findings revealed that the use of this interview tool promoted person-centered care in encounters focused on clinical audiological rehabilitation. Specifically, the ICF-based holistic approach permitted the audiologists to acquire more comprehensive patient narratives. The use of the ICF interview tool facilitated patient participation and permitted the audiologist to collect more substantial and meaningful information from each patient.
Understanding the Role of Clinical Champions and Their Impact on Clinician Behavior Change: The Need for Causal Pathway Mechanisms
Authors: Morena Alexandra L. , Gaias Larissa M. , Larkin Celine
Published: July 2022

Background

The clinical champion approach is a highly utilized implementation strategy used to mitigate barriers and improve outcomes of implementation efforts. Clinical champions are particularly effective at addressing provider-level barriers and promoting provider-behavior change. Yet, the specific causal pathways that explain how clinical champions impact provider behavior change have not been well-explicated. The current paper applies behavior change models to develop potential causal pathway mechanisms.

Methods

The proposed mechanisms are informed by previous literature involving clinical champions and empirically supported behavior change models. These models are applied to link specific attributes to different stages of behavior change and barriers for providers.

Results

Two unique pathway mechanisms were developed, one that explicates how providers develop intention to use EBPs, while the other explicates how providers transition to EBP use and sustainment. Clinical champions may promote intention development through behavioral modeling and peer buy-in. In contrast, champions promote behavioral enactment through skill building and peer mentorship.

Conclusion

Clinical champions likely play a critical role in reducing provider implementation barriers for providers across various phases of behavior change. The proposed pathways provide potential explanations for how clinical champions promote provider behavior change. Future research should prioritize empirically testing causal pathway mechanisms.
RAICEX: A Successful Story of the Spanish Scientific Diaspora
Authors: Ortega-Paino Eva , Oliver Eduardo
Published: July 2022

RAICEX (Red de Asociaciones de Investigadores y Científicos Españoles en el Exterior), the Network of Associations of Spanish Researchers and Scientist Abroad, consists of more than 4,000 Spanish researchers distributed in 18 countries in 5 different continents. RAICEX was established in July 2018 by 15 foundational members: the associations of Spanish Researchers in the USA, México, Ireland, Sweden, Denmark, France, Italy, Japan, Australia, China, UK, Germany, Switzerland, Belgium, and Norway. Since then, 3 more associations have joined: Emirates, Netherlands and South Africa. RAICEX was born with the main goal: “promoting the exchange of experiences and knowledge between Spanish researchers and scientists abroad and all the stakeholders of the Spanish System of Science, Technology and Innovation (SECTI), serving as an advisory body, information channel and catalyst for international relations in scientific matters, contributing to the progress of science.” Their main objectives are: (1) to provide support to researchers and scientists in mobility and personal development, offering training, information and guidance, as well as providing contact with all the other associations that make up the global network; (2) to disseminate and give visibility to the value of Science and the work of researchers and scientists, promoting communication of the advances of knowledge in all areas of society; (3) to promote international relations and cooperation between researchers / scientists and public and private organizations, from a global perspective; (4) to share the acquired knowledge and experience in different research and science systems abroad to advise, provide feedback and contribute to the progress of the whole SECTI. In this Case Study a particular scenario of the Spanish scientific diaspora, including history, reasons for going abroad, and consequences for the Spanish R&D system, shall be introduced to readers. The impact that RAICEX and its foundational members have had in the Spanish National System since the creation of the first community in the UK by 2012 will also be discussed. RAICEX's activities range from providing advice to newcomers and carrying out science dissemination, to becoming an advisory body to governments and institutions. The Spanish scientific diaspora is an extensive network committed to cooperation and brain connection.
Too Much of a Good Thing? A Governing Knowledge Commons Review of Abundance in Context
Authors: Madison Michael J. , Frischmann Brett M. , Sanfilippo Madelyn R. , Strandburg Katherine J.
Published: July 2022

The economics of abundance, along with the sociology of abundance, the law of abundance, and so forth, should be re-framed, linked, and situated in a common context for empirical rather than conceptual research. Abundance may seem to be a new, big thing, between anxiety over information overload, Big Data, and related technological disruptions. But scholars know that abundance is an ancient phenomenon, which only seemed to disappear as twentieth century social science focused on scarcity instead. Restoring the study of abundance, and figuring out how to solve the problems that abundance might create, means shedding disciplinary blinders and going back to basics. How does abundance, in various forms, create or alleviate social problems? We explain and illustrate how the Governing Knowledge Commons (GKC) framework provides a useful research tool to generate and test hypotheses about abundance in various economic, social, cultural, and legal settings.
Identifying Urban Agriculture Needs and Challenges for the Implementation of Green Labeling in Xochimilco, Mexico
Authors: Arroyo-Lambaer Denise , Zambrano Luis , Rivas Miguel I. , Vázquez-Mendoza Diana Laura , Figueroa Fernanda , Puente-Uribe Martha B. , Espinosa-García Ana C. , Tapia-Palacios Marco A. , Mazari-Hiriart Marisa , Revollo-Fernández Daniel , Jiménez-Serna Alaíde , Covarrubias Marco , Sumano Carlos
Published: July 2022

The current global situation with a dominant economic development model producing social inequality, increment and intensification of urbanization has generated severe environmental degradation and an associated increase in the likelihood of pandemics. New strategies that strengthen sustainable food production are urgent in highly unequal countries as Mexico. In Mexico City, the most populated city of the country, a wetland system, named Xochimilco, still holds chinampas, a unique and ingenious food system dating from pre-Hispanic times. These days chinampas are the best example of urban sustainable agriculture production. Unfortunately, this system is under threat due to urbanization and industrial land-use changes. Among the strategies to promote sustainable modes of production and consumption is eco or green labeling, consisting of a voluntary environmental certification approach, and marketing and advertising tool, that can change producers' and consumers' behavior toward long-term sustainability. Although widely used, the benefits of green labels for producers are not always realized. This study aimed to learn more about the agro-ecological production process and commercialization challenges in Xochimilco and San Gregorio Atlapulco in Southern Mexico City to understand chinampa producers' needs and determine whether a green label can offer solutions in this vulnerable socio-ecological system, particularly suffering the effects of the COVID-19 pandemics. For this, a literature review and producers' mental model analysis based on network theory, were developed. Results show that non-resolved issues such as commercialization problems, consumers' unwillingness to pay a fair price, loss of healthy soil, and degraded water quality used for irrigation persist and can affect the benefits of a green label including to improve chinampa production and farmers' income. Farmers' current necessities comprised increasing profits, receiving financial advice to set prices of agro-ecological vegetables and production costs, among others. Under the current production and commercialization scenarios complying with the assessment cost of certification will be difficult for most producers; then, implementing the green label would probably fail to fulfill the benefits. Attending to former and persistent conflicts and satisfying chinampa producers' neglected necessities are essential before implementing any program.
Tracing Unconfined Nearfield Spreading of a River Plume Interflow in a Large Lake (Lake Geneva): Hydrodynamics, Suspended Particulate Matter, and Associated Fluxes
Authors: Piton Violaine , Soulignac Frédéric , Lemmin Ulrich , Graf Benjamin , Wynn Htet Kyi , Blanckaert Koen , Barry David Andrew
Published: July 2022

River inflows have a major influence on lake water quality due to their input of sediments, nutrients and contaminants. After leaving the river channel, river waters form a plume and interact with ambient lake waters. Strong hydrodynamic changes take place in the nearfield. To determine the nearfield hydro-sedimentary dynamics of the negatively-buoyant Rhône River plume in thermally stratified Lake Geneva, field campaigns were carried out at high and intermediate river discharge. High-resolution full-depth Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler (ADCP) transects were taken at 400, 800, 1,200, and 1,500 m from the river mouth, combined with profiles of temperature, turbidity and particle size distribution. These measurements provided, for the first time in a lake, detailed velocity fields across the full-plume cross-section in each transect. Furthermore, the unique combination of measurement techniques allowed the quantification of entrainment, Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM) concentrations and fluxes. They revealed that the negatively buoyant river inflow intruded into the metalimnion as a laterally unconfined interflow and continued flowing straight out in the streamwise direction, since currents in the lake were weak. At the same time, it mainly spread laterally due to entrainment of ambient water. The size of the interflow core and its velocity progressively decreased with distance from the mouth, as did SPM concentrations and volumes of particles (by a factor of 2–3 within 1,500 m), due to sediment settling and entrainment. The interflow momentum flux remained constant along the pathway, but interflow cross sections and discharge increased 2–3 times (within 1,500 m). The entrainment coefficient was >2 at 400 m and further increased non-linearly along the pathway. These values are much higher than those reported for laterally confined laboratory studies. The particle size distribution in the interflow was dominated by fine particles (<32 μm), which were transported up to 1,500 m from the mouth and most likely beyond, whereas larger particles (>62 μm) almost completely settled out before reaching that distance. The above processes occurred independent of river discharge; their intensity, however, changed with discharge.
Heliospheric Structure Analyzer (HSA): A Simple 1-AU Mission Concept Focusing on Large-Geometric-Factor Measurements
Authors: Borovsky Joseph E. , Raines Jim M.
Published: July 2022

To obtain measurements that will address some outstanding questions about the properties and origin of the magnetic and plasma structure of the heliosphere a simple single-spacecraft mission at one AU is outlined. By focusing on large-geometric-factor measurements of particles (protons, alphas, heavy ions, and electrons) several longstanding questions can be answered. The key objectives of the large-geometric-factor measurements are lower noise and faster time resolution. Much of the focus is on critical measurements associated with the ubiquitous current sheets (directional discontinuities) of the solar wind that provide information about the origin and evolution of the current sheets and about the origin and evolution of the magnetic and plasma structures that they define.
Preoperative Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio Predicts Complications After Esophageal Resection That can be Used as Inclusion Criteria for Enhanced Recovery After Surgery
Authors: Shi Bo-Wen , Xu Li , Gong Chun-Xia , Yang Fu , Han Yu-Dong , Chen He-Zhong , Li Chun-Guang
Published: July 2022

Background

The neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) has been reported as an indicator for poor prognosis in many cancers including esophageal cancer. However, the relationship between the NLR and postoperative complications after esophageal cancer resection remains unclear. At present, enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) lacks inclusion criteria. The aim of this study is to determine whether the preoperative NLR (preNLR) can predict complications after esophageal cancer resection, which could represent the criteria for ERAS.

Methods

This was a retrospective study on 171 patients who underwent esophagectomy at Hospital between November 2020 and November 2021(68 patients from Changhai Hospital, 65 patients from Shanghai General Hospital and 38 patients from Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to demonstrate that the preNLR could predict complications after esophagectomy.

Results

A preNLR cutoff value of 2.30 was identified as having the greatest ability to predict complications with a sensitivity of 76% and specificity of 65%. Moreover, the Chi-squared test results showed that the preNLR was significantly associated with complications (x2 = 13.641, p < 0.001), and multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that body mass index (BMI), p stage and preNLR were independent variables associated with the development of postoperative complications (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The preNLR can predict complications after esophagectomy, and these predicted complications can represent the criteria for recruiting patients for ERAS.
Sphingolipids and DHA Improve Cognitive Deficits in Aged Beagle Dogs
Authors: Araujo Joseph A. , Segarra Sergi , Mendes Jessica , Paradis Andrea , Brooks Melissa , Thevarkunnel Sandy , Milgram Norton W.
Published: July 2022

Canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) is a disorder found in senior dogs that is typically defined by the development of specific behavioral signs which are attributed to pathological brain aging and no other medical causes. One way of objectively characterizing CDS is with the use of validated neuropsychological test batteries in aged Beagle dogs, which are a natural model of this condition. This study used a series of neuropsychological tests to evaluate the effectiveness of supplementation with a novel lipid extract containing porcine brain-derived sphingolipids (Biosfeen®) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) for attenuating cognitive deficits in aged Beagles. Two groups (n = 12), balanced for baseline cognitive test performance, received a daily oral dose of either test supplement, or placebo over a 6-month treatment phase. Cognitive function was evaluated using the following tasks: delayed non-matching to position (DNMP), selective attention, discrimination learning retention, discrimination reversal learning, and spatial discrimination acquisition and reversal learning. The effect of the supplement on brain metabolism using magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) was also examined. A significant decline (p = 0.02) in DNMP performance was seen in placebo-treated dogs, but not in dogs receiving the supplement, suggesting attenuation of working memory performance decline. Compared to placebo, the supplemented group also demonstrated significantly improved (p = 0.01) performance on the most difficult pattern of the spatial discrimination task and on reversal learning of the same pattern (p = 0.01), potentially reflecting improved spatial recognition and executive function, respectively. MRS revealed a significant increase (p = 0.048) in frontal lobe glutamate and glutamine in the treatment group compared to placebo, indicating a physiological change which may be attributed to the supplement. Decreased levels of glutamate and glutamine have been correlated with cognitive decline, suggesting the observed increase in these metabolites might be linked to the positive cognitive effects found in the present study. Results of this study suggest the novel lipid extract may be beneficial for counteracting age-dependent deficits in Beagle dogs and supports further investigation into its use for treatment of CDS. Additionally, due to parallels between canine and human aging, these results might also have applicability for the use of the supplement in human cognitive health.
Method to Assess Farm-Level Vaccine and Antibiotic Usage Utilizing Financial Documentation: A Pilot Study in a Commercial Pig Farm in South Africa From 2016 to 2018
Authors: Strasheim Wilhelmina , Etter Eric M. C. , Lowe Michelle , Perovic Olga
Published: July 2022

The purpose of the study was to develop a blueprint using financial documentation to describe and quantify vaccine and antibiotic usage (ABU). This method was piloted in a commercial pig farm in South Africa, with the ultimate hope to serve as a tool in a future species-specific vaccine and ABU surveillance system. Data collection was based on templates from the European Surveillance of Veterinary Antimicrobial Consumption (ESVAC) network and the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH). Invoices from 2016 to 2018 were used as the main data source. In addition, monthly statement of accounts were used to check for missing invoices. An inventory check was done to ensure that the correct antibiotic concentrations were used in subsequent calculations. Livestock counts and slaughter statistics were also collected to be used as denominator data. Cost calculations for the procurement of antibiotics and vaccines were also done. The study showed that veterinary medicinal products were purchased only from a single veterinary practice. A total of 291 invoices were issued over 3 years, of which 2.75% (8/291) were missing and could therefore not be used in quantification. Tetracyclines (453.65 ± 25.49 kg and 135.16 ± 3.31 mg/kg), followed by quinoxalines (258.33 ± 8.04 kg and 77.07 ± 3.93 mg/kg) were used in the highest amounts, both in terms of weight (kg) and adjusted for animal biomass (mg/kg). Vaccines used on the farm targeted seven different diseases, namely enzootic pneumonia, erysipelas, ileitis, infectious infertility, leptospirosis, neonatal pig diarrhea and porcine circovirus disease. An average of 103 546 vaccine dosages was purchased for ZAR1 302,727 ($ 84,6201) per year, whereas the average cost for the procurement of antibiotics was ZAR 907,372 ($ 69,561) per year. The study showed that invoices and monthly statement of accounts, in combination with an inventory check and on-farm production statistics, are useful data sources to quantify vaccine and ABU in the absence of veterinary prescriptions. In addition, vaccinating pigs were more expensive than administering antibiotics.
Gut Microbiota and Lymphocyte Subsets in Canine Leishmaniasis
Authors: Meazzi Sara , Lauzi Stefania , Martini Valeria , Ferriani Riccardo , Peri Margherita , Zanzani Sergio Aurelio , Giordano Alessia
Published: July 2022

Gut microbiota seems to interact with immune system. Canine leishmaniasis pathogenesis and severity of disease lean on the host immunity, but there is no information in literature about gut microbiota in infected animals. Thus, this study aims to compare the microbiota composition and leukocyte subset of healthy dogs with those of asymptomatic dogs exposed to Leishmania spp. and dogs with clinical leishmaniasis. Thirty-nine dogs were enrolled and grouped into three groups: healthy, exposed asymptomatic and infected symptomatic for Leishmania spp. Flow cytometry on whole blood evaluated the prevalence of CD4, CD5, CD8, CD11b, CD14, and CD21 positive cells. Gut microbiota was investigated using a next generation sequencing (NGS) technique. Firmicutes resulted significantly more abundant in the healthy dogs compared with the other two groups. Conversely, Proteobacteria were more abundant in symptomatic dogs. Even in rarest phyla comparison some significant differences were found, as well as in comparison at classes, order, family and genus levels. The symptomatic group had lower concentration of all the lymphocyte classes (CD5, CD21, CD4, CD8) compared to the other groups. A lower abundance of Firmicutes is reported in literature in diseased animals compared to the healthy ones and this is in agreement with the results of this study. Increased Proteobacteria in sick animals could suggest a dysbiosis status, even without distinct gastrointestinal signs. The leukocyte classes results indicate a decreased Th1 response in symptomatic dogs. Studies also investigating the cytokine response could deepen the knowledge on the pathogenesis of canine leishmaniasis.
Impacts of Macleaya cordata on Productive Performance, Expression of Growth-Related Genes, Hematological, and Biochemical Parameters in Turkey
Authors: Manaa Eman A. , Abdel-Latif Mervat A. , Ibraheim Samya E. , Sakr Abdelaziz , Dawood Mahmoud , Albadrani Ghadeer M. , El-kott Attalla F. , Abdel-Daim Mohamed M. , Shafik Basant M.
Published: July 2022

Macleaya cordata (M. cordata) is a herbal plant that has abundant amounts of sanguinarine, which has many biomedical properties. The effects of M. cordata dietary supplementation on the productive performance, some blood constituents, and growth-related genes' expression were evaluated in turkey. M. cordata extract was dietary supplemented to turkey at levels of 25, 50, and 100 ppm and a control group. Growth performance measurements (FBW, ADG, and FCR) and production efficiency factor for turkey (BPEF) were similar (p > 0.05) in all supplemented groups. M. cordata has no adverse effects (p > 0.05) on the birds' health regarding hematological (Hb, RBCs, WBCs, and PCV) and blood biochemical indices evaluating liver function, kidney function, and lipid profile. Moreover, the mRNA expression of growth-related genes, such as growth hormone receptor (GHR), insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), cyclooxygenase 3 (COX-3), adenine nucleotide translocase (ANT), and uncoupling protein 3 (UCP-3) were upregulated (p < 0.001) in M. cordata treatments with the highest value for SG50 compared with the control group. We concluded that exogenous M. cordata dietary supplementation upregulated the expression of growth-related genes in turkey at a level of 50 ppm without adverse effects on their health status regarding hematological and biochemical indices.
Tunnel Traffic Evolution during Capacity Drop Based on High-Resolution Vehicle Trajectory Data
Authors: Yang Lu , Wang Chishe , Li Zhibin
Published: July 2022

Capacity drop is the critical phenomenon that triggers traffic congestion, while traffic evolution is very complex during a capacity drop. This study applied the empirical vehicle trajectory data to explore the traffic characteristics during the capacity drop at the tunnel bottleneck section. We first construct a capacity drop analysis model using image processing technology to extract high-precision vehicle trajectories. We then analyze the characteristics of the evolution process of the capacity drop at the bottleneck area. The results show that the capacity drop is a dynamic evolution process from free flow to congested flow where traffic operation is distinct. The capacity drop shows the difference between congested flow and non-congested flow. The driving characteristics of drivers in the two states are also different. The influence of lane-changing behavior on the capacity drop is estimated. In the free flow state, the disturbance caused by lane-changing can be quickly eliminated. With the increase in vehicle numbers in the area, the frequent lane-changing behavior accumulates disturbance. When the disturbance reaches a certain degree, congestion will occur, and the vehicle’s speed will drop sharply, resulting in a capacity drop.
Progressive Lameness of a Greater One-Horned Rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis) Associated with a Retroperitoneal Abscess and Thrombus Caused by Streptococcus dysgalactiae Subspecies equisimilis
Authors: Reetz Anne Elisabeth , Aubry Etienne , Teske Kinga , Ochs Andreas , Epping Lennard , Semmler Torsten , Lübke-Becker Antina , Fulde Marcus , Mundhenk Lars
Published: July 2022

In rhinoceroses, lameness is an occasionally seen symptom primarily caused by lesions affecting the feet and interdigital space. A 3-year-old male Greater one-horned rhinoceros developed a progressive, severe movement disorder of the right hind limb with subsequent death. The pathological analysis diagnosed a severe, retroperitoneal abscess and chronic thrombosis of the right iliac artery. Streptococci detected in the abscess were further identified as Streptococcus dysgalactiae subspecies equisimilis by culture and molecular techniques. The identical isolate was also identified in a vaginal swab of the dam. The list of differential diagnoses for lameness in rhinoceroses must be expanded by processes affecting other than the extremities per se.
Effects of Probiotics on Growth and Immunity of Piglets
Authors: Azizi Ahmad Farid Nikmal , Uemura Ryoko , Omori Mariko , Sueyoshi Masuo , Yasuda Masahiro
Published: July 2022

Growth promoting antibiotics are used in modern animal husbandry to promote growth and avoid infections. Negative effects of these antibiotics on human health are a big concern and they need to be replaced. Probiotics are expected to be a good replacement for growth promoting antibiotics. In this study, we evaluated effects of probiotics on growth and immune status of liver and secondary lymphoid organs of piglets. Body weights of probiotic-fed piglets were heavier than those of control piglets (p < 0.05) at days 30 and 45 of the experiment. Relative populations of CD4+ and IgM+ cells isolated from the liver were significantly increased (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01, respectively) in probiotic-fed piglets compared to control piglets. CD4+CD8+ T cells were significantly decreased (p < 0.05) in jejunal Peyer’s patches of treated piglets. Phagocytosis of MHC class II+ cells isolated from the liver of probiotic-fed piglets was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than that of control piglets. Phagocytosis of granulocytes isolated from the liver and peripheral blood of probiotic-fed piglets were also higher than those of control piglets. These results indicate excellent effects on growth and immune status of piglets. In conclusion, probiotics have beneficial effects on the growth and health of piglets and could be good replacement for growth promoting antibiotics.
Synthesis and Evaluation of Novel DNA Minor Groove Binders as Antiamoebic Agents
Authors: Alniss Hasan Y. , Khan Naveed A. , Boghossian Anania , Akbar Noor , Al-Jubeh Hadeel M. , Msallam Yousef A. , Saeed Balsam Q. , Siddiqui Ruqaiyyah
Published: July 2022

The free-living amoeba Acanthamoeba castellanii is responsible for the central nervous infection granulomatous amoebic encephalitis and sight-threatening infection Acanthamoeba keratitis. Moreover, no effective treatment is currently present, and a combination drug therapy is used. In this study, twelve DNA minor groove binders (MGBs) were synthesized and tested for their antiamoebic activity via amoebicidal, encystation, excystation, and cytopathogenicity assays. It was found that the compounds MGB3, MGB6, MGB22, MGB24, and MGB16 significantly reduce amoeba viability to 76.20%, 59.45%, 66.5%, 39.32%, and 43.21%, respectively, in amoebicidal assays. Moreover, the compounds MGB6, MGB20, MGB22, MGB28, MGB30, MGB32, and MGB16 significantly inhibit Acanthamoeba cysts, leading to the development of only 46.3%, 39%, 30.3%, 29.6%, 27.8%, 41.5%, and 45.6% cysts. Additionally, the compounds MGB3, MGB4, MGB6, MGB22, MGB24, MGB28, MGB32, and MGB16 significantly reduce the re-emergence of cysts to trophozoites, with viable trophozoites being only 64.3%, 47.3%, 41.4%, 52.9%, 55.4%, 40.6%, 62.1%, and 51.7%. Moreover, the compounds MGB3, MGB4, and MGB6 exhibited the greatest reduction in amoeba-mediated host-cell death, with cell death reduced to 41.5%, 49.4%, and 49.5%. With the following determined, future in vivo studies can be carried out to understand the effect of the compounds on animal models such as mice.
Clove Polyphenolic Compounds Improve the Microbiological Status, Lipid Stability, and Sensory Attributes of Beef Burgers during Cold Storage
Authors: Ahmed Isam A. Mohamed , Babiker Elfadil E. , Al-Juhaimi Fahad Y. , Bekhit Alaa El-Din Ahmed
Published: July 2022

This study investigated the phenolic composition of clove powder extract (CPE), determined by high-pressure liquid chromatography, as well as the effect of the clove powder (CP) concentration (0, 2, 4, and 6%) on the quality of beef burgers during 21 days of cold storage at 4 °C. The CPE contained a high amount of total phenolic content (455.8 mg Gallic acid equivalent/g) and total flavonoid content (100.4 mg catechin equivalent/g), and it exhibited high DPPH antioxidant scavenging activity (83.9%). Gallic acid, catechol, and protocatechuic acid were the highest phenolic acids (762.6, 635.8, and 544.9 mg/100 g, respectively), and quercetin and catechin were the highest flavonoid acids (1703.1 and 1065.1 mg/100 g, respectively). Additionally, the CPE inhibited the growth of both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria effectively at 100 μg/disc. The addition of the CP had no discernible influence on the pH of the meat patties. The addition of CP at 4 and 6% increased the phenolic content and antioxidant activity of the beef patties, which consequently resulted in reduced lipid oxidation and microbial spoilage throughout the storage period. Furthermore, the CP significantly (p ≤ 0.05) improved the beef burger cooking characteristics (cooking yield, fat retention, moisture retention, and shrinkage). Additionally, the sensory acceptability was higher (p ≤ 0.05) for the burgers that contained 2% and 4% CP compared with the other treatments. In conclusion, the bioactive compounds in CP can extend the shelf life and improve the safety of beef burgers.
Demethylation of H3K9 and H3K27 Contributes to the Tubular Renal Damage Triggered by Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress
Authors: Diaz-Bulnes Paula , Saiz Maria Laura , Corte-Iglesias Viviana , Rodrigues-Diez Raúl R , Bernardo Florez Aida , Ruiz Bernet Cristian , Martin Martin Cristina , Ruiz-Ortega Marta , Suarez-Alvarez Beatriz , López-Larrea Carlos
Published: July 2022

Loss of protein homeostasis (proteostasis) in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) activates the unfolded protein response (UPR), restoring correct protein folding. Sustained ER stress exacerbates activation of the major UPR branches (IRE1α/XBP1, PERK/ATF4, ATF6), inducing expression of numerous genes involved in inflammation, cell death, autophagy, and oxidative stress. We investigated whether epigenetic dynamics mediated by histone H3K9 and H3K27 methylation might help to reduce or inhibit the exacerbated and maladaptive UPR triggered in tubular epithelial cells. Epigenetic treatments, specific silencing, and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays were performed in human proximal tubular cells subjected to ER stress. Pharmacological blockage of KDM4C and JMJD3 histone demethylases with SD-70 and GSKJ4, respectively, enhanced trimethylation of H3K9 and H3K27 in the ATF4 and XBP1 genes, inhibiting their expression and that of downstream genes. Conversely, specific G9a and EZH2 knockdown revealed increases in ATF4 and XBP1 expression. This is a consequence of the reduced recruitment of G9a and EZH2 histone methylases, diminished H3K9me3 and H3K27me3 levels, and enhanced histone acetylation at the ATF4 and XBP1 promoter region. G9a and EZH2 cooperate to maintain the repressive chromatin structure in both UPR-induced genes, ATF4 and XBP1. Therefore, preserving histone H3K9 and H3K27 methylation could ameliorate the ER stress, and consequently the oxidative stress and the triggered pathological processes that aggravate renal damage.
Metabolomics, Oxidative, and Nitrosative Stress in the Perinatal Period
Authors: Kuligowski Julia , Vento Máximo
Published: July 2022

The perinatal period is extremely sensitive to external stimuli, and events that may disturb the equilibrium within the mother–infant dyad might have a substantial short- and long-term impact on the infant’s health and development [...]
Magnetic Field Visualization Teaching Based on Fusion Method of Finite Element and Neural Network
Authors: Yang Guang , Li Jiadong , Li Huiqi , Kong Dejing , Wang Zhengqi , Liu Fan
Published: July 2022

We developed a visual teaching platform that can calculate the magnetic field of magnetic core inductance in real time. The platform adopts the combination of two theories of finite element calculation and neural network technology. It can enhance students’ understanding and application of the basic knowledge of electromagnetic fields. First, the finite element method was used to calculate the magnetic field of the magnetic core inductance, and the magnetic field data set under different input parameters was obtained. On this basis, the neural network method was used to learn the data set and train the corresponding model. Then the trained neural network model was used to calculate the magnetic core inductance magnetic field. After comparing with the finite element calculation results, we found that the calculation results of the neural network model combined with the finite element were in good agreement with the finite element calculation results. Compared with the finite element calculation method, the calculation speed of the magnetic field distribution calculated by the neural network was faster. Taking the calculation of the magnetic core inductance magnetic field as an example, the calculation time was shortened by about 170 times. Finally, we built a magnetic field visualization teaching platform based on MATLAB. The example magnetic field was quickly predicted by the neural network, saving computing time and effectively improving the teaching of electromagnetic field theory.
Smart-Median: A New Real-Time Algorithm for Smoothing Singing Pitch Contours
Authors: Faghih Behnam , Timoney Joseph
Published: July 2022

Pitch detection is usually one of the fundamental steps in audio signal processing. However, it is common for pitch detectors to estimate a portion of the fundamental frequencies incorrectly, especially in real-time environments and when applied to singing. Therefore, the estimated pitch contour usually has errors. To remove these errors, a contour smoother algorithm should be employed. However, because none of the current contour-smoother algorithms has been explicitly designed to be applied to contours generated from singing, they are often unsuitable for this purpose. Therefore, this article aims to introduce a new smoother algorithm that rectifies this. The proposed smoother algorithm is compared with 15 other smoother algorithms over approximately 2700 pitch contours. Four metrics were used for the comparison. According to all the metrics, the proposed algorithm could smooth the contours more accurately than other algorithms. A distinct conclusion is that smoother algorithms should be designed according to the contour type and the result’s final applications.
Time-Dependent Reliability Assessment Method for RC Simply Supported T-Beam Bridges Based on Lateral Load Distribution Influenced by Reinforcement Corrosion
Authors: He Xin , Tan Guojin , Chu Wenchao , Wang Wensheng , Kong Qingwen
Published: July 2022

The safety and reliability of bridges gradually decrease over time under the influence of disadvantageous environmental factors, primarily due to reinforcement corrosion caused by chloride ingress. The traditional lateral load distribution (LLD) theory does not consider the influence of corrosion, which degrades the accuracy of bridge performance and reliability calculation. A time-dependent reliability assessment method for simply supported T-beam bridges is proposed in this paper, which considers the influence of reinforcement corrosion on LLD. Firstly, the steel corrosion process and degree are predicted based on the chloride ingress model, into which the water/cement ratio and concrete strength are innovatively introduced in order to improve the prediction accuracy. Secondly, the effective stiffness calculation method for corroded reinforcement bridges is established with the moment of inertia and section crack condition employed. Thirdly, the modified eccentric compression method is improved by the effective stiffness and iterative algorithm, which is suitable for the LLD calculation of corroded reinforcement bridges. The time-dependent vehicle load effect can be computed combined with the probability distribution of live load. Finally, the time-dependent reliability of the flexural bearing capacity is obtained by the Monte Carlo method and Bayesian theory without prior information. A simply supported bridge with five T-beams is taken as an example for analysis. It is indicated that the results calculated by the traditional reliability method are conservative, which cannot make a true and accurate evaluation. The method proposed in this paper can effectively reduce the assessment error caused by model uncertainty while considering the interaction between reinforcement corrosion and vehicle live load effect.
Investigating the Vibration Mitigation Efficiency of Tuned Sloshing Dampers Using a Two-Fluid CFD Approach
Authors: Péntek Máté , Riedl Andreas , Bletzinger Kai-Uwe , Weber Felix
Published: July 2022

The efficiency of a Tuned Sloshing Damper (TSD) when mitigating wind-induced structural vibrations is investigated. We assessed the performance in terms of peak structural displacements and accelerations, compared to that of the Tuned Mass Damper (TMD). One load scenario considers oncoming gusts due to natural turbulence, whereas the other assumes predominant vortex shedding at a low turbulence intensity. The known optimum tuning rules for TSDs and TMDs were adopted. We combined numerical models for fluids and structures to simulate the dynamic effects caused by wind loading. A two-fluid Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) approach was used for the realistic simulation of the TSD. The interaction between the flow, the structural behavior and the added devices was captured. All of these computational methods and respective models represent the necessary components of a modular and flexible simulation environment. The study demonstrates that this workflow is suited to model the inclusion of TSDs and TMDs, as well as to capture the effect of transient wind at full scale. We specifically used it to quantify the efficiency of added dampers. The process highlights challenges in properly tuning a TSD and its reduced efficiency compared to that of a TMD. Such an outcome is attributed to the water mass and potential added damping only being partially activated. The computational framework promises the ability to improve such designs by enabling numerical optimization for better efficiency.
Study on the Multi-Mode Optimal Control of Four-Wheel Steering Vehicle
Authors: Zhou Pengcheng , Ren Chuanbo , Meng Lingju , Chen Yajie , Nan Yang
Published: July 2022

To improve the overall performance of four-wheel steering vehicles under different working conditions and solve the problem of the unbalanced comprehensive control effect of a single controller, a multi-mode optimal decision control system is proposed based on the linear 2-DOF dynamic model of the vehicle, which can make the vehicle have better performance under different working conditions. The system is composed of multiple controllers, in which the self-tuning dual yaw rate feedback controller can create timely feedback and make adjustments according to the driving state of the vehicle, which is optimal under the condition of a small rotation angle at medium and high speeds. The system can match the corresponding controller according to the optimal performance of different control strategies at different speeds and angles. The simulation results show that the multi-mode optimal selection system can make the vehicle perform optimally under different working conditions, and that comprehensive performance is more prominent than that of a single controller.
A High-Order Discontinuous Galerkin Method for Solving Preconditioned Euler Equations
Authors: Gao Huanqin , Zhang Jiale , Chen Hongquan , Xu Shengguan , Jia Xuesong
Published: July 2022

A high-order discontinuous Galerkin (DG) method is presented for solving the preconditioned Euler equations with an explicit or implicit time marching scheme. A detailed description is given of a practical implementation of a precondition matrix of the type of Weiss and Smith and of the DG spatial discretization scheme employed, with particular emphasis on the artificial viscosity-based shock capturing techniques. The curved boundary treatment is proposed through adopting a NURBS surface equipped with a radial basis function interpolation to propagate the boundary displacement to the interior of the mesh. The resulting methods are verified by simulating flows over two-dimensional airfoils, such as symmetric NACA0012 or asymmetric RAE2822, and over three-dimensional bodies, such as an academic hemispherical headform or aerodynamic ONERA M6 wing. Numerical results show that the present method functions for both transonic and nearly incompressible flow simulations, and the proposed treatment of curved boundaries, play an important role in improving the accuracy of the obtained solutions, which are in good agreement with available experimental data or other numerical solutions reported in literature.
Uncertainty Quantification for Numerical Solutions of the Nonlinear Partial Differential Equations by Using the Multi-Fidelity Monte Carlo Method
Authors: Du Wenting , Su Jin
Published: July 2022

The Monte Carlo simulation is a popular statistical method to estimate the effect of uncertainties on the solutions of nonlinear partial differential equations, but it requires a huge computational cost of the deterministic model, and the convergence may become slow. For this reason, we developed the multi-fidelity Monte Carlo (MFMC) methods based on data-driven low-fidelity models for uncertainty analysis of nonlinear partial differential equations. Firstly, the nonlinear partial differential equations are transformed into ordinary differential equations (ODEs) by using finite difference discretization or Fourier transformation. Then, the reduced dimension model and discrete empirical interpolation method (DEIM) are coupled to construct effective nonlinear low-fidelity models in ODEs system. Finally, the MFMC method is used to combine the output information of the high-fidelity model and the low-fidelity models to give the optimal estimation of the statistics. Experimental results of the nonlinear Schrodinger equation and the Burgers’ equation show that, compared with the standard Monte Carlo method, the MFMC method based on the data-driven low-fidelity model in this paper can improve the calculation efficiency significantly.