bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adjustments in the motor unit discharge behavior following neuromuscular electrical stimulation compared to voluntary contractions
Authors: Borzuola Riccardo , Nuccio Stefano , Scalia Martina , Parrella Martina , Del Vecchio Alessandro , Bazzucchi Ilenia , Felici Francesco , Macaluso Andrea
Published: June 2023

Introduction: The application of neuromuscular electrical stimulation superimposed on voluntary muscle contractions (NMES+) has demonstrated a considerable potential to enhance or restore muscle function in both healthy and individuals with neurological or orthopedic disorders. Improvements in muscle strength and power have been commonly associated with specific neural adaptations. In this study, we investigated changes in the discharge characteristics of the tibialis anterior motor units, following three acute exercises consisting of NMES+, passive NMES and voluntary isometric contractions alone.

Methods: Seventeen young participants participated in the study. High-density surface electromyography was used to record myoelectric activity in the tibialis anterior muscle during trapezoidal force trajectories involving isometric contractions of ankle dorsi flexors with target forces set at 35, 50% and 70% of maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC). From decomposition of the electromyographic signal, motor unit discharge rate, recruitment and derecruitment thresholds were extracted and the input-output gain of the motoneuron pool was estimated.

Results: Global discharge rate increased following the isometric condition compared to baseline at 35% MVIC while it increased after all experimental conditions at 50% MVIC target force. Interestingly, at 70% MVIC target force, only NMES + led to greater discharge rate compared to baseline. Recruitment threshold decreased after the isometric condition, although only at 50% MVIC. Input-output gain of the motoneurons of the tibialis anterior muscle was unaltered after the experimental conditions.

Discussion: These results indicated that acute exercise involving NMES + induces an increase in motor unit discharge rate, particularly when higher forces are required. This reflects an enhanced neural drive to the muscle and might be strongly related to the distinctive motor fiber recruitment characterizing NMES+.
Detection of meteorological influence on bread wheat quality in Hebei province, China based on the gradient boosting decision tree
Authors: Zhang Xinyue , Chen Keyao , Li Kuo
Published: June 2023

Wheat grain quality is equivalent to grain yield in terms of ensuring food security under climate change but has received less attention. Identifying critical meteorological conditions in key phenological periods to account for the variability in grain protein content (GPC) can provide insight into linkages between climate change and wheat quality. The wheat GPC data from different counties of Hebei Province, China during 2006-2018 and corresponding observational meteorological data were used in our study. Through a fitted gradient boosting decision tree model, latitude of the study area, accumulated sunlight hours during the growth season, accumulated temperature and averaged relative humidity from filling to maturity were suggested as the most relevant influencing variables. The relationship between GPC and latitude was distinguished between areas north and south of 38.0° N. GPC decreased with the increasing latitude in areas south of 38.0° N, where at least accumulated temperatures of 515°C from filling to maturity were preferred to maintain high GPC. Besides, averaged relative humidity during the same phenological period exceeding 59% could generate an extra benefit to GPC here. However, GPC increased with increasing latitude in areas north of 38.0° N and was mainly attributed to more than 1500 sunlight hours during the growth season. Our findings that different meteorological factors played a major role in deciding regional wheat quality provided a scientific basis for adopting better regional planning and developing adaptive strategies to minimize climate impacts.
The development and transcriptome regulation of the secondary trunk of Ginkgo biloba L.
Authors: Cao Zhong-yun , Su Li-ning , Zhang Qian , Zhang Xin-yue , Kang Xiao-jing , Li Xin-hui , Sun Li-min
Published: June 2023

Secondary trunk Ginkgo biloba is one of the specific germplasms of G. biloba. In this study, paraffin sectioning, high-performance liquid chromatography and transcriptome sequencing technology were used to study the development of the secondary trunk of G. biloba from the morphological, physiological and molecular levels. The results showed that the secondary trunk of G. biloba originated from the latent buds in the stem cortex at the junction of the root and stem of the main trunk. The development process of secondary trunk was divided into 4 periods: the dormancy period of the secondary trunk buds, the differentiation period, the formation period of transport tissue, and the budding period. Transcriptome sequencing was performed by comparing the germination period and elongation growth period of the secondary trunk with the normal parts of the same period where no secondary trunks occurred. Differential genes involved in phytohormone signal transduction, phenylpropane biosynthesis, phenylalanine metabolism, glycolysis and other pathways can regulate not only the inhibition of early dormant buds but also the later development of the secondary trunk. Genes related to IAA synthesis are upregulated and indole-3-acetic acid content is increased, leading to the up-regulated expression of IAA intracellular vector genes. The IAA response gene (SAUR) receives and responds to IAA signals to promote the development of the secondary trunk. Through the enrichment of differential genes and functional annotations, a key regulatory pathway map for the occurrence of the secondary trunk of G. biloba was sorted out.
Mental healthcare services satisfaction and its associated factors among patients with mental disorders on follow-up in the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Melkam Mamaru , Kassew Tilahun
Published: June 2023

Background

Patient mental healthcare services satisfaction is a crucial component in evaluating the effectiveness and efficiency of clinical service delivery. It can be explained as the client’s reaction to various aspects of the services they receive and their subjective assessment of the healthcare facilities and healthcare givers. Despite the importance of measuring mental healthcare services satisfaction, few studies have been conducted in Ethiopia. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of mental healthcare services satisfaction among patients with mental disorders who were on follow-up at the University of Gondar Specialized Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia.

Method

An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from June 1, 2022 to July 21, 2022. All the study participants were interviewed on the follow-up visit consecutively. The Mental Healthcare Services Satisfaction Scale tool was used to measure patient satisfaction, and the Oslo-3 Social Support Scale and other questionnaires, such as environmental factors and clinical factors, were also screened. The data were checked for completeness, entered and coded using Epi-data version 4.6, and exported to Stata version 14 software for analysis. Bivariable logistic and multivariable regression analyses were employed to identify the factors significantly associated with satisfaction. Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was used to report the result at a p-value of <0.05.

Results

A total of 402 study participants were included in this study, with a response rate of 99.7%. The proportions of male and female participants who were satisfied with the mental healthcare services were 59.29 and 40.70%, respectively. The overall mental healthcare services satisfaction was 65.46% with a 95% CI of 59.90, 70.62. Not being admitted to psychiatry [AOR: 4.94; 95% CI (1.30, 8.76)], getting their drugs in the hospital [AOR: 1.34; 95% CI (3.58, 8.74)], and having strong social support [AOR: 6.40; 95% CI (2.64, 8.28)] were significantly associated with satisfaction.

Conclusion

The prevalence of mental healthcare services satisfaction is very low; therefore, more is expected to be done to enhance the satisfaction of the patients who access these services via psychiatry clinics. Enhancing the social support of clients, making drugs available in the hospital, and improving the service received by the admitted client are necessary to increase the healthcare service satisfaction of clients on the whole. The services delivered in psychiatry units must be improved to achieve good patient satisfaction, which might be helpful for the improvement of the disorders.
Effect of family-centered interventions for perinatal depression: an overview of systematic reviews
Authors: He Liping , Soh Kim Lam , Yu Jiaxiang , Chen Aixiang , Dong Xiujuan
Published: June 2023

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate and conclude the quality of critically systematic reviews (SRs) of the efficacy of family-centered interventions on perinatal depression.

Methods

SRs of the efficacy of family-centered interventions on perinatal depression were systematically searched in nine databases. The retrieval period was from the inception of the database to December 31, 2022. In addition, two reviewers conducted an independent evaluation of the quality of reporting, bias risk, methodologies, and evidence using ROBIS (an instrument for evaluating the bias risk of SRs), Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA), AMSTAR 2 (an assessment tool for SRs), and grading of recommendations, assessment, development and evaluations (GRADE).

Results

A total of eight papers satisfied the inclusion criteria. In particular, AMSTAR 2 rated five SRs as extremely low quality and three SRs as low quality. ROBIS graded four out of eight SRs as “low risk.” Regarding PRISMA, four of the eight SRs were rated over 50%. Based on the GRADE tool, two out of six SRs rated maternal depressive symptoms as “moderate;” one out of five SRs rated paternal depressive symptoms as “moderate;” one out of six SRs estimated family functioning as “moderate,” and the other evidence was rated as “very low” or “low.” Of the eight SRs, six (75%) reported that maternal depressive symptoms were significantly reduced, and two SRs (25%) were not reported.

Conclusion

Family-centered interventions may improve maternal depressive symptoms and family function, but not paternal depressive symptoms. However, the quality of methodologies, evidence, reporting, and bias of risk in the included SRs of family-centered interventions for perinatal depression was not satisfactory. The above-mentioned demerits may negatively affect SRs and then cause inconsistent outcomes. Therefore, SRs with a low risk of bias, high-quality evidence, standard reporting, and strict methodology are necessary to provide evidence of the efficacy of family-centered interventions for perinatal depression.
Psychological status on informal carers for stroke survivors at various phases: a cohort study in China
Authors: Huang Neng , Tang Yidan , Zeng Peng , Guo Xingtong , Liu Zuoyan
Published: June 2023

Background

In China, the risk of stroke is higher than that in developed countries such as Europe and North America. Informal caregivers play a major role in providing support to stroke survivors. Currently, only limited studies on changes in psychological state of the caregivers at different stages of stroke have been published.

Purpose

To investigate the stress and psychological state of informal caregivers of stroke patients in different periods and to explore the factors that affect their states.

Methods

202 informal caregivers of stroke patients were selected in a 3a-grade hospital in Chengdu, Sichuan. Follow-up was conducted by face-to-face interviews, telephone calls, or home visits on days 3, 2 months, and 1 year after onset. We investigated the basic information about the caregivers, including their anxiety, depression and social support conditions. We analyzed the pressure and psychological conditions of informal caregivers at different stages of stroke and analyzed its influencing factors. The data were displayed by the number and percentage of the cases; the continuous variables were described by means and standard deviation. In addition, the data were compared by Pearson correlation analysis and logistic regression analysis.

Results

(1) Within 3 days after the onset of stroke, the informal caregivers had the highest stress, the most severe anxiety and depression, the heaviest burden, and the lowest score of medical-social support. Over time, the pressure and burden of the caregivers are gradually decreasing, anxiety and depression are increasing, and social support is also increasing. (2) The stress and psychological status of informal stroke caregivers are affected by multiple factors, including the caregiver’s age, relationship with the patient, patient’s age, and patient’s physical conditions.

Conclusion

The stress and psychological status of informal caregivers varied in the different stages of stroke, and they were affected by several factors. Medical staff should pay attention to informal caregivers while providing care for patients. Relevant interventions may be developed based on the results to improve the health of informal caregivers and thus to promote the health of patients.
Association between depression and HIV infection vulnerable populations in United States adults: a cross-sectional analysis of NHANES from 1999 to 2018
Authors: Xu Yan , Huang Yuexin , Peng Jie , Tang Ruiti , Luo Bin , Xia Zhiwei
Published: June 2023

Background

Although the government has made a commitment to advance education on HIV disclosure, depression continues to play a significant role in whether people living with HIV (PLWH) choose to disclose their HIV status to families or friends. Vulnerable populations who are at risk of contracting HIV may also be more susceptible to mental illness. However, there is a limited understanding of the association between depression and vulnerable populations affects by HIV among United States adults. We aimed to explore the incidence of depression in the HIV infection vulnerable populations and assessed the association between the HIV infection vulnerable populations and depression.

Methods

We analyzed the most current statistics from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) that included 16,584 participants aged 18 years or older between 1999 and 2018. The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) was used to evaluate symptoms of depressive disorder. Demographic characteristics were compared between the HIV infection vulnerable groups and HIV infection low-risk groups. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was also carried out to evaluate the odds rate and association between the HIV infection vulnerable populations and depression.

Results

Based on the most recent statistics from NHANES, HIV infection vulnerable populations were male, younger, less married or living together, non-Hispanic White people, lower income, and lower body mass index (BMI), with higher levels of cigarette smoking, alcohol drinking, a higher prevalence of depression, lower prevalence of hypertension and diabetes mellitus (DM; p < 0.05). Additionally, individuals with severe depression had a higher prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD), hypertension, DM, chronic kidney disease (CKD), and a higher proportion of HIV infection vulnerable populations and less married or living together (p < 0.01). Finally, the odds of depression from the logistic regression were significantly increased in HIV infection vulnerable groups (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Depression might be associated with HIV infection vulnerable populations in the United States adults. More research is needed to evaluate the association between HIV infection vulnerable populations and depression and explore their causal associations. In addition, prevention efforts focusing on HIV disclosure and HIV infection vulnerable populations in the United States should address common co-prevalent depression to reduce new HIV infections.
The effectiveness of the first dose COVID-19 booster vs. full vaccination to prevent SARS-CoV-2 infection and severe COVID-19 clinical event: a meta-analysis and systematic review of longitudinal studies
Authors: Xu Junjie , Lan Xinquan , Zhang Liangyuan , Zhang Xiangjun , Zhang Jiaqi , Song Moxin , Liu Jiaye
Published: June 2023

Background

The effectiveness of full Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination against COVID-19 wanes over time. This study aimed to synthesize the clinical effectiveness of the first dose of COVID-19 booster by comparing it to the full vaccination.

Methods

Studies in PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and clinical trials databases were searched from 1 January 2021 to 10 September 2022. Studies were eligible if they comprised general adult participants who were not ever or currently infected with SARS-CoV-2, did not have impaired immunity or immunosuppression, and did not have severe diseases. The seroconversion rate of antibodies to S and S subunits and antibody titers of SARS-CoV-2, frequency, phenotype of specific T and B cells, and clinical events involving confirmed infection, admission to the intensive care unit (ICU), and death were compared between the first booster dose of COVID-19 vaccination group and full vaccination group. The DerSimonian and Laird random effects models were used to estimate the pooled risk ratios (RRs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the outcomes of clinical interest. While a qualitative description was mainly used to compare the immunogenicity between the first booster dose of COVID-19 vaccination group and full vaccination group. Sensitivity analysis was used to deal with heterogenicity.

Results

Of the 10,173 records identified, 10 studies were included for analysis. The first dose COVID-19 booster vaccine could induce higher seroconversion rates of antibodies against various SAS-CoV-2 fragments, higher neutralization antibody titers against various SARS-CoV-2 variants, and robust cellular immune response compared to the full vaccination. The risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection, the risk of admission to the ICU, and the risk of death were all higher in the non-booster group than those in the booster group, with RRs of 9.45 (95% CI 3.22–27.79; total evaluated population 12,422,454 vs. 8,441,368; I2 = 100%), 14.75 (95% CI 4.07–53.46; total evaluated population 12,048,224 vs. 7,291,644; I2 = 91%), and 13.63 (95% CI 4.72–39.36; total evaluated population 12,385,960 vs. 8,297,037; I2 = 85%), respectively.

Conclusion

A homogenous or heterogeneous booster COVID-19 vaccination could elicit strong humoral and cellular immune responses to SARS-CoV-2. Furthermore, it could significantly reduce the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection and severe COVID-19 clinical events on top of two doses. Future studies are needed to investigate the long-term clinical effectiveness of the first booster dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and compare the effectiveness between homogenous and heterogeneous booster COVID-19 vaccination.

Systematic review registration

https://inplasy.com/inplasy-2022-11-0114/, identifier: INPLASY2022110114.
Machine learning to analyze the factors influencing myopia in students of different school periods
Authors: Tong Hao-Jie , Huang Ze-Min , Li Yu-Lan , Chen Yi-Ming , Tian Ben , Ding Ling-Ling , Zhu Li-Ling
Published: June 2023

Purpose

We aim to develop myopia classification models based on machine learning algorithms for each schooling period, and further analyze the similarities and differences in the factors influencing myopia in each school period based on each model.

Design

Retrospective cross-sectional study.

Participants

We collected visual acuity, behavioral, environmental, and genetic data from 7,472 students in 21 primary and secondary schools (grades 1–12) in Jiamusi, Heilongjiang Province, using visual acuity screening and questionnaires.

Methods

Machine learning algorithms were used to construct myopia classification models for students at the whole schooling period, primary school, junior high school, and senior high school period, and to rank the importance of features in each model.

Results

The main influencing factors for students differ by school section, The optimal machine learning model for the whole schooling period was Random Forest (AUC = 0.752), with the top three influencing factors being age, myopic grade of the mother, and Whether myopia requires glasses. The optimal model for the primary school period was a Random Forest (AUC = 0.710), with the top three influences being the myopic grade of the mother, age, and extracurricular tutorials weekly. The Junior high school period was an Support Vector Machine (SVM; AUC = 0.672), and the top three influencing factors were gender, extracurricular tutorial subjects weekly, and whether can you do the “three ones” when reading and writing. The senior high school period was an XGboost (AUC = 0.722), and the top three influencing factors were the need for spectacles for myopia, average daily time spent outdoors, and the myopic grade of the mother.

Conclusion

Factors such as genetics and eye use behavior all play an essential role in students’ myopia, but there are differences between school periods, with those in the lower levels focusing on genetics and those in the higher levels focusing on behavior, but both play an essential role in myopia.
Recruitment and reach in a school-based pediatric obesity intervention trial in rural areas
Authors: Forseth Bethany , Lancaster Brittany , Olalde Megan , Befort Christie A. , Swinburne Romine Rebecca E. , Dreyer Gillette Meredith L. , Dean Kelsey M. , Nelson Eve-Lynn , Davis Ann M.
Published: June 2023

Introduction

The purpose of this study is to evaluate two recruitment strategies on schools and participant participation rates and representativeness (reach) within a pediatric obesity treatment trial tailored for families who live in rural areas.

Methods

Recruitment of schools was evaluated based on their progress toward enrolling participants. Recruitment and reach of participants were evaluated using (1) participation rates and (2) representativeness of demographics and weight status of participants compared to eligible participants (who did not consent and enroll) and all students (regardless of eligibility). School recruitment, as well as participant recruitment and reach, were evaluated across recruitment methods comparing opt-in (i.e., caregivers agreed to allow their child to be screened for eligibility) vs. screen-first (i.e., all children screened for eligibility).

Results

Of the 395 schools contacted, 34 schools (8.6%) expressed initial interest; of these, 27 (79%) proceeded to recruit participants, and 18 (53%) ultimately participated in the program. Of schools who initiated recruitment, 75% of schools using the opt-in method and 60% of schools using the screen-first method continued participation and were able to recruit a sufficient number of participants. The average participation rate (number of enrolled individuals divided by those who were eligible) from all 18 schools was 21.6%. This percentage was higher in schools using the screen-first method (average of 29.7%) compared to schools using the opt-in method (13.5%). Study participants were representative of the student population based on sex (female), race (White), and eligibility for free and reduced-price lunch. Study participants had higher body mass index (BMI) metrics (BMI, BMIz, and BMI%) than eligible non-participants.

Conclusions

Schools using the opt-in recruitment were more likely to enroll at least 5 families and administer the intervention. However, the participation rate was higher in screen-first schools. The overall study sample was representative of the school demographics.
G-quadruplexes and associated proteins in aging and Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Vijay Kumar M. J. , Morales Rodrigo , Tsvetkov Andrey S.
Published: June 2023

Aging is a prominent risk factor for many neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by progressive cognitive decline, memory loss, and neuropsychiatric and behavioral symptoms, accounting for most of the reported dementia cases. This disease is now becoming a major challenge and burden on modern society, especially with the aging population. Over the last few decades, a significant understanding of the pathophysiology of AD has been gained by studying amyloid deposition, hyperphosphorylated tau, synaptic dysfunction, oxidative stress, calcium dysregulation, and neuroinflammation. This review focuses on the role of non-canonical secondary structures of DNA/RNA G-quadruplexes (G4s, G4-DNA, and G4-RNA), G4-binding proteins (G4BPs), and helicases, and their roles in aging and AD. Being critically important for cellular function, G4s are involved in the regulation of DNA and RNA processes, such as replication, transcription, translation, RNA localization, and degradation. Recent studies have also highlighted G4-DNA’s roles in inducing DNA double-strand breaks that cause genomic instability and G4-RNA’s participation in regulating stress granule formation. This review emphasizes the significance of G4s in aging processes and how their homeostatic imbalance may contribute to the pathophysiology of AD.
Machine learning for underwater laser detection and differentiation of macroalgae and coral
Authors: Huot Matthieu , Dalgleish Fraser , Beauchesne David , Piché Michel , Archambault Philippe
Published: June 2023

A better understanding of how spatial distribution patterns in important primary producers and ecosystem service providers such as macroalgae and coral are affected by climate-change and human activity-related events can guide us in anticipating future community and ecosystem response. In-person underwater field surveys are essential in capturing fine and/or subtle details but are rarely simple to orchestrate over large spatial scale (e.g., hundreds of km). In this work, we develop an automated spectral classifier for detection and classification of various macroalgae and coral species through a spectral response dataset acquired in a controlled setting and via an underwater multispectral laser serial imager. Transferable to underwater lidar detection and imaging methods, laser line scanning is known to perform in various types of water in which normal photography and/or video methods may be affected by water optical properties. Using off the shelf components, we show how reflectance and fluorescence responses can be useful in differentiating algal color groups and certain coral genera. Results indicate that while macroalgae show many different genera and species for which differentiation by their spectral response alone would be difficult, it can be reduced to a three color-type/class spectral response problem. Our results suggest that the three algal color groups may be differentiated by their fluorescence response at 580 nm and 685 nm using common 450 nm, 490 nm and 520 nm laser sources, and potentially a subset of these spectral bands would show similar accuracy. There are however classification errors between green and brown types, as they both depend on Chl-a fluorescence response. Comparatively, corals are also very diverse in genera and species, and reveal possible differentiable spectral responses between genera, form (i.e., soft vs. hard), partly related to their emission in the 685 nm range and other shorter wavelengths. Moreover, overlapping substrates and irregular edges are shown to contribute to classification error. As macroalgae are represented worldwide and share similar photopigment assemblages within respective color classes, inter color-class differentiability would apply irrespective of their provenance. The same principle applies to corals, where excitation-emission characteristics should be unchanged from experimental response when investigated in-situ.
The evolution of organic food certification
Authors: Kononets Yevhen , Konvalina Petr , Bartos Petr , Smetana Pavel
Published: June 2023

The surge in the development of the organic food movement is in response to mass industrial food production, prioritizing productivity and economic profit across the global food supply chain, the cost of individual human health, the nutritional value of products, environmental degradation, and climate change. In recent decades, bio-certified food has become especially important to farmers, consumers, and policymakers as a viable transition away from high-input, intensive farming methods to a more humane and sustainable food system. However, to create value and a point of distinction in the marketplace, a robust and valid operation system to verify organic standards throughout the supply chain is of utmost importance. In this study, we conducted two separate surveys. The first survey targeted active organic farmers from three countries. Based on the data obtained, we confirm, similar to other investigations, that the current system of bio-certification is not reliable with a certain degree of probability. The second survey consulted highly specialized experts in organic systems from around the world to identify how the bio certification system should be transformed. The results indicated that the average probability of unregistered violations can be 35.4% according to self-reporting by organic farmers. This together with results that found that 96.12% of experts believe that the organic certification procedure needs to change provides increasing evidence and justification for an overhaul of the certification system.
Evaluation of different methods of environmental enrichment to control anxiety in dogs undergoing hemilaminectomy after acute intervertebral disc extrusion: a randomized double-blinded study
Authors: Pennington Ellery , Springer Cary , Albright Julia , Castel Aude
Published: June 2023

Objective

The goal of this randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study was to evaluate the effect of environmental enrichment (EE) on post-operative pain and anxiety in dogs following hemilaminectomy for acute intervertebral disc extrusion (IVDE).

Methods

Twenty healthy client-owned dogs undergoing a hemilaminectomy for IVDE with the same immediate post-operative analgesia protocol were randomly assigned to either the EE or standard environment (SE) group post-operatively. Recovery was achieved in an intensive care room (SE) or a separate quiet room (EE) equipped with white noise and classical music. EE dogs were also exposed to dog-appeasing pheromones, essential oil scents, and positive human interactions and were provided meals through food toys. A blinded evaluator assessed all dogs using the modified Glasgow Composite Pain Scale (mGCPS) on presentation and at several time points post-operatively. A rescue injection of the opioid methadone was given to the dogs with an mGCPS score of ≥5/20. Dogs received the antidepressant trazodone when anxious behaviors (5 mg/kg) were observed. The mGCPS scores, the latencies to receive the first methadone and trazodone doses and to eat the first meal, the number of methadone and trazodone doses, and the number of meals ingested in the first 24 and 48 h post-surgery were compared using Wilcoxon tests, and Benjamini–Hochberg correction for false discovery rate was applied.

Results

Although median mGCPS scores did not differ between the groups, compared to SE dogs (n = 10), EE dogs (n = 6) received trazodone earlier (p = 0.019), were administered fewer methadone injections at 24 h (p = 0.043), and ate more at 48 h post-surgery (p = 0.007). Therefore, EE and anti-anxiety medications could be beneficial in improving the wellbeing of dogs post-operatively.
Evaluation of the immunogenicity of a Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus vaccine candidate in mice developed based on a baculovirus Zera nanoparticle delivery system
Authors: Zhang Gang , Wang Pu , Jiang Lingling , Kong Yunyi , Wang Sheng , Li Yong , Zhang Sinong
Published: June 2023

Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a zoonotic disease caused by Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV), which can cause severe clinical disease and even death in humans. In recent years, the disease has spread to a wider area, posing a major public health threat to China as well as the Middle East, Europe and Africa, and there is no safe and effective vaccine to prevent the disease. Recently, it has been shown that using the Zera fusion to target proteins can enhance immunogenicity and improve the potential for developing viral vaccines. Based on this finding, in this study, two vaccine candidates, Zera-Gn and Zera-Np, were prepared using an insect baculovirus system expressing CCHFV glycoprotein (Gn) and nucleocapsid protein (Np) fused with Zera tags, and evaluated for immunogenicity in BALB/c mice. The obtainedresults showed that both Zera-Gn and Zera-Np recombinant nanoparticles were successfully expressed, and Zera-Gn had good induction of humoral and cellular immunity in mice, and its immunogenicity was significantly higher than that of Zera-Np. The results indicated that Zera-Gn self-assembled nanoparticles prepared by fusing Zera tags with CCHFV spike-in protein Gn have the potential to be a candidate vaccine for CCHF, and this study provides a reference for the development of Zera self-assembled nanoparticle vaccine for CCHF.
Gradually weaning goat kids may improve weight gains while reducing weaning stress and increasing creep feed intakes
Authors: Vickery Holly M. , Neal Rachael A. , Stergiadis Sokratis , Meagher Rebecca K.
Published: June 2023

Most dairy goat farms rear kids on ad libitum milk replacer; calf research suggests this improves growth and welfare, but solid feed intakes are problematic. Weaning can be gradual (incremental milk reduction) or abrupt (sudden, complete milk removal, which evidence suggests reduces welfare). Three treatments were created: abrupt weaning (AW: ad libitum milk until weaning) and gradual weaning [milk ad libitum until day 35, then milk unavailable 3.5 h/day until day 45 when milk removal was a 7 h/day block (gradual weaning 1: GW1) or two 3.5 h/day blocks (gradual weaning 2; GW2)]; complete milk removal occurred at day 56 for all. Experiment 1 investigated on-farm feasibility, behavior, and average daily gain (ADG). Experiment 2 investigated feed intakes, behavior, and ADG for AW and GW2. Experiment 1 had 261 kids (nine pens of 25–32), CCTV recorded 6 h/day, and group-level scan sampling recorded target behaviors. Kruskal–Wallis tests showed GW2 kids spent more time feeding on solids during weaning (p = 0.001) and displayed lower levels of ‘frustrated suckling motivation’ PostWean (p = 0.008). However, feeding competition differed PreWeaning (p = 0.007). ADG data from 159 female kids analyzed by a general linear model (fixed factor: treatment; covariate: day 34 weight) found GW2 had the highest ADG from day 35–45 (p ≤ 0.001) and no differences from day 45 to 56, and AW had the highest ADG PostWean (day 56–60). Experiment 2 had two AW pens (9 kids/pen) and two GW2 pens (8 and 9 kids/pen). A computerized feeder recorded milk intakes from day 22 to 56. Pen-level solid feed/water intakes were recorded from day 14–70. General linear models (fixed factor: treatment; covariate: PreWean value) found GW2 kids had higher ADG (p = 0.046) and lower milk intake (p = 0.032) from day 45–55, and PostWean (day 56–70) trended toward GW2 higher ADG (p = 0.074). Mann–Whitney U tests showed pen-level feed intake differences: AW had higher creep and straw throughout, GW2 showed higher creep during weaning (day 35–55), and higher water PostWean (>56 d). Behavioral observations suggest that gradually weaned kids may have enhanced welfare. Pen-level gradual weaning is feasible and, while weight gain results were mixed, it reduced milk intake, increased creep intake, and therefore combined with behavioral evidence can be recommended.
Minimum Dietary Diversity Among Children Aged 6–59 Months in East Africa Countries: A Multilevel Analysis
Authors: Raru Temam Beshir , Merga Bedasa Taye , Mulatu Gutema , Deressa Alemayehu , Birhanu Abdi , Negash Belay , Gamachu Mulugeta , Regassa Lemma Demissie , Ayana Galana Mamo , Roba Kedir Teji
Published: June 2023

Objective: To find out the determinants of minimum dietary diversity (MDD) among under-five children in East Africa based on the 2017 revised indicator.

Methods: Secondary data from the demographic and health survey (DHS) of eight countries in East Africa were combined. A total of 27,223 weighted samples of children aged 6–59 months were included. Multi-level logistic regression analysis was employed to identify the determinants of dietary diversity.

Results: The magnitude of adequate MDD in East Africa was found to be 10.47% with 95% CI (10.12–10.84) with the lowest and highest magnitude in Ethiopia and Rwanda respectively. Having a mother in the age group of 35–49, having a mother with higher educational attainment, and having a post-natal check-up within 2 months were significant factors in determining adequate MDD.

Conclusion: The magnitude of adequate MDD intake among children aged 6–59 months in East Africa is relatively low. Therefore, strengthening interventions focused on improving the economic status of households, the educational status of mothers, and diversified food consumption of children aged 6–59 months should get priority to improve the recommended feeding practice of children.
A New Force Control Method by Combining Traditional PID Control with Radial Basis Function Neural Network for a Spacecraft Low-Gravity Simulation System
Authors: Cao Jian , Zhang Yang , Ju Chuanyu , Xue Xinyi , Zhang Jiyuan
Published: June 2023

With the continuous development of the space industry, the demand for low-gravity simulation experiments on the ground for spacecraft is increasing, to overcome the gravity compensation of spacecraft on the ground tests. This paper presents a new low-gravity simulation system based on the suspension method. We used a traditional PID control method with Radial Basis Function (RBF) neural network to solve its constant-tension control problem. The ant colony algorithm was used to find the initial parameters of the neural network in the solution space. A self-adjusting control strategy of PID controller parameters was realized. The results show that the tension control error of the low-gravity simulation system is as small as 0.2%, which fully meets the requirements of the system’s technical indicators. This work provides auspicious theoretical and technical support for developing a low-gravity simulation system.
A High-Resolution Mass Spectrometer for the Experimental Study of the Gas Composition in Planetary Environments: First Laboratory Results
Authors: Zymak Illia , Žabka Ján , Polášek Miroslav , Sanderink Arnaud , Lebreton Jean-Pierre , Gaubicher Bertrand , Cherville Barnabé , Zymaková Anna , Briois Christelle
Published: June 2023

A new laboratory OrbitrapTM cell-based mass spectrometer, OLYMPIA (Orbitrap anaLYseur MultiPle IonisAtion), without a C-trap module, has been developed and constructed. The first operation of the OrbitrapTM cell-based device with the continuous ion source and without the C-trap module is reported. OLYMPIA is being developed and used as a workbench platform to test and develop technologies for the next generation of spaceborne mass spectrometers and as a laboratory instrument to perform high-resolution studies of space-relevant chemical processes. This instrument has been used to measure the quantitative composition of CO/N2/C2H4 mixtures of the same nominal mass using an electron ionization ion source. The relative abundance of ions has been measured using a short acquisition time (up to 250 ms) with a precision of better than 10% (for most abundant ions) and a mass resolution of 30,000–50,000 (full width at half maximum) over the mass range of m/z 28–86. The achieved mass accuracy of measurements is better than 20 ppm. This performance level is sufficient to resolve and identify the CO/N2/C2H4 components of the mixtures. The dynamic range and relative ion abundance measurements have been evaluated using a reference normal isotopic distribution of krypton gas. The measurement accuracy is about 10% for the 4 most abundant isotopes; 6 isotopes are detectable.
Modeling and Control for an Aero-Engine Based on the Takagi-Sugeno Fuzzy Model
Authors: Wang Weixuan , Peng Jingbo , Zhang Yu
Published: June 2023

This paper presents a study on the modeling and control of an aero-engine within the full flight envelope using the Takagi–Sugeno (T-S) fuzzy theory. A highly accurate aero-engine small deviation state variable model (SVM) was developed using the adaptive differential evolution, based on numerous successes through history, with the linear population size reduction (L-SHADE) algorithm. The affinity propagation (AP) clustering algorithm was then implemented to realize the division of flight envelopes based on the gap metric between the SVMs at each working point. By solving the membership parameters using the L-SHADE algorithm, the T-S fuzzy model was obtained, which has flight conditions as premises and engine linear SVM as consequences. Furthermore, based on the established T-S fuzzy model and T-S control theory, a controller design method is proposed. The simulation results show that the T-S fuzzy model has high accuracy and good generalization capability within the flight envelope, and the proposed control method can guarantee the asymptotic stability of the system, subject to external disturbance and time delay.
Crashworthiness of Additively Manufactured Lattice Reinforced Thin-Walled Tube Hybrid Structures
Authors: Tao Chenglin , Wang Zhao , Liu Zeliang , Wang Yuan , Zhou Xin , Liang Xi , Li Huijian
Published: June 2023

In this paper, a new hybrid structure of body-centered cubic lattice-filled thin-walled tube is designed, and the hybrid structure specimens of one-piece printing and split-printing are prepared by laser melting technique. The deformation mode and energy absorption characteristics of the new hybrid structure are investigated by experiments and numerical simulations. Under axial compression, the one-piece printed hybrid structure forms more wrinkles with smaller wavelengths, and the specific energy absorption increases by 12.14% compared with the split-printed structure; under transverse compression, the one-piece printed structure does not show the separation of the thin-walled tube from the lattice, and the specific energy absorption increases by 134.83% compared with the split-printed structure. It is worth noting that the designed hybrid structure has a 112.60% (580.15%) increase in specific energy absorption under axial compression (under transverse compression) compared to the empty tube. The effects of wall thickness, lattice density, and loading rate on the crashworthiness of the hybrid structure were investigated using a validated finite element model. This paper provides a new idea for the preparation of lightweight and high-strength energy-absorbing structures.
Screening and Prioritization of Pesticide Application for Potential Human Health and Environmental Risks in Largescale Farms in Western Kenya
Authors: Onyando Zedekiah Odira , Omukunda Elizabeth , Okoth Patrick , Khatiebi Sandra , Omwoma Solomon , Otieno Peter , Osano Odipo , Lalah Joseph
Published: June 2023

Pesticide application in agricultural and residential areas is a worldwide practice. However, human pesticide poisoning and environmental pollution through pesticide residues remain a challenge in the developing world. The present study investigated the intensity of pesticide application in large-scale farms in Trans-Nzoia County to screen and prioritize the pesticides for potential human health and environmental risks. A cross-sectional survey involving 348 farmers was conducted in the study area, and data was analyzed using SPSS. Environmental Exposure Potential (EEP) and Toxicity Potentials (TP) were analyzed from the Pesticide Properties Database (PPDB). Majority (99.4%) of the farms surveyed apply various pesticide classes that include: organophosphates (34.78%), neonicotinoids (15.22%), carbamates (10.87%), pyrethroids (10.87%), organochlorines (8.7%), triazoles (6.5%), copper-based (4.34%), avermectines (2.17%), triazines (2.17%), and amidines (2.17%), with the use of organic manures (26.3%). Despite the high prevalence of pesticide application, only 48.28% of farms conduct soil quality monitoring, 77.3% of whom do not have clear records and schedules for conducting periodic soil analyses. There was a strong positive correlation between the acreage of operation and the use of herbicides in weed management (r = 0.77; p ≤ 0.05). In relation to degradation in the environment, 18.42% of the pesticides applied in the study area were persistent in soil sub-systems while 31.58% are persistent in water. Of the pesticides applied, 18.42% had high chances of bioconcentration in living tissues, 10.53% and 13.16% had the potential of contaminating groundwater and surface water resources, respectively. The ranked-order human toxicity potential associated with the used pesticides were teratogenicity (31.58%), neurotoxicity (28.95%), endocrine disruption (7.9%), carcinogenicity (7.9%), and mutagenicity (2.63%). However, 10.53% of the pesticides possess multiple toxicity potentials. Some farmers (53.70%) surveyed were not aware of the negative environmental impacts of pesticides with 59.50% having prior training on the use and handling of pesticides. Despite the availability of Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) on larger farms, 31.9% of the farm workers do not adhere to their use during pesticide application. In conclusion, there is low awareness among farmers of human health and environmental risks associated with pesticide application. The study recommends training of farm managers, farm owners, and farm workers on pesticide handling and associated health and environmental effects.
A Robust Vehicle Detection Model for LiDAR Sensor Using Simulation Data and Transfer Learning Methods
Authors: Lakshmanan Kayal , Roach Matt , Giannetti Cinzia , Bhoite Shubham , George David , Mortensen Tim , Manduhu Manduhu , Heravi Behzad , Kariyawasam Sharadha , Xie Xianghua
Published: June 2023

Vehicle detection in parking areas provides the spatial and temporal utilisation of parking spaces. Parking observations are typically performed manually, limiting the temporal resolution due to the high labour cost. This paper uses simulated data and transfer learning to build a robust real-world model for vehicle detection and classification from single-beam LiDAR of a roadside parking scenario. The paper presents a synthetically augmented transfer learning approach for LiDAR-based vehicle detection and the implementation of synthetic LiDAR data. A synthetic augmented transfer learning method was used to supplement the small real-world data set and allow the development of data-handling techniques. In addition, adding the synthetically augmented transfer learning method increases the robustness and overall accuracy of the model. Experiments show that the method can be used for fast deployment of the model for vehicle detection using a LIDAR sensor.