bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combinatory Effect of ALA‐PDT and Itraconazole Treatment for Trichosporon asahii
Authors: Lan Yu , Lu Sha , Zheng Bowen , Tang Zengqi , Li Jiahao , Zhang Junmin
Published: November 2020

Background and Objectives

Trichosporiosis is an opportunistic infection that includes superficial infections, white piedra, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, and invasive trichosporonosis. The effect of antifungal agents against these infections is largely weakened by drug resistance and biofilms‐related virulence. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a new therapeutic approach developed not only to combat cancerous lesions but also to treat infectious diseases such as fungal infections. However, there are few studies on the antimicrobial mechanism of 5‐aminolevulinic acid PDT (ALA‐PDT) in treating Trichosporon. In this work, we explored the possibility of combining ALA‐PDT with an antifungal agent to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of Trichosporon asahii (T. asahii) in a clinical setting and in vitro.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

The biofilms of T. asahii were constructed by a 96‐well plate‐based method in vitro. The planktonic and adherent T. asahii were exposed to different concentrations of photosensitizers and different light doses. After PDT treatment, counting colony‐forming units and tetrazolium (XTT) reduction assay were used to estimate the antifungal efficacy. The minimal inhibitory concentration of itraconazole before and after PDT treatment was determined by the broth dilution method, and XTT viability assay was used to detect and evaluate the synergistic potential of ALA‐PDT and itraconazole combinations in inhibiting biofilms. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was performed to assess the disruption of biofilms.

Results

Using combination therapy, we have successfully treated a patient who had a T. asahii skin infection. Further in vitro studies showed that the antifungal effect of ALA‐PDT on planktonic and adherent T. asahii was dependent on the concentration of ALA and light dosages used. We also found that the sensitivity of both planktonic and biofilm cells to itraconazole were increased after ALA‐PDT. Synergistic effect were observed for biofilms in ALA‐PDT and itraconazole‐combined treatment. The disruption of biofilms was confirmed by SEM, suggesting that ALA‐PDT effectively damaged the biofilms and the destruction was further enhanced by ALA‐PDT combination of antifungal agents.

Conclusions

In conclusion, these data suggest that ALA‐PDT could be an alternative strategy for controlling infections caused by Trichosporon. The combination therapy of ALA‐PDT with itraconazole could result in increased elimination of planktonic cells and biofilms compared with single therapy. All these findings indicate that it could be a promising treatment against trichosporonosis. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC
A Comparison of Human and Porcine Skin in Laser‐Assisted Drug Delivery of Chemotherapeutics
Authors: Rosenberg Lukas K. , Bagger Charlotte , Janfelt Christian , Haedersdal Merete , Olesen Uffe H. , Lerche Catharina M.
Published: November 2020

Background and Objectives

Porcine skin is a widely used model in diffusion studies, but its usefulness for laser‐assisted drug delivery (LADD) has not been evaluated in comparison with human skin. This study compared porcine and human skin in ex vivo LADD diffusion studies.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Ex vivo ablative fractional laser (AFL) treatments (5, 20, and 80 mJ/mb) were applied to skin samples from three sources: human, normal pig (Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire breed), and a hyperkeratotic pig phenotype. Samples were stained using hematoxylin and eosin, photo‐documented, and measured digitally. Samples (20 mJ/mb) were exposed to bleomycin or 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU) for 19 hours in Franz diffusion cells. Drug uptake was quantified at three skin depths (100, 500, and 1,500 µm) by high‐performance liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry. Drug biodistribution and endogenous lipids were visualized by matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization‐mass spectrometry imaging.

Results

Epidermal and dermal thicknesses of human and normal pig skin were similar (76–87 µm and 1,668–1,886 µm, respectively; P = 0.082–0.494). Endogenous lipids were investigated, and 116 compounds were identified. Of these compounds, 100 were found in all three skin types, while six were present exclusively in human skin. Laser channel depths (20 mJ/mb) in human and normal pig skin were similar (1,081 vs. 1,126 µm; P = 0.588). Bleomycin uptake was similar in all skin types at all depths (101.4–175.6 µg/cm3; P = 0.132–0.699). 5‐FU uptake in human and normal pig skin was similar at 100 and 500 µm (80.5 vs. 140.3 µg/cm3 and 131.2 vs. 208.1 µg/cm3, respectively; P = 0.065–0.093). At 1500 µm, 5‐FU concentrations in the porcine skin types differed from those in human skin (104.7 vs. 196.7–344.8 µg/cm3; P = 0.002–0.026). Drug biodistribution was similar among skin types, but differences between bleomycin and 5‐FU biodistribution were observed.

Conclusions

Normal porcine and human skin showed similar morphology, the composition of endogenous lipids, and AFL‐assisted cutaneous uptake, and biodistribution of chemotherapeutics. Therefore, normal porcine skin, but not hyperkeratotic pig phenotype skin, is a practical and reliable model for healthy human skin in ex vivo LADD diffusion studies. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC
Dynamic Optical Coherence Tomography of Cutaneous Blood Vessels in Melasma and Vessel Response to Oral Tranexamic Acid
Authors: Pomerantz Hyemin , Christman Mitalee P. , Bloom Bradley S. , Lederhandler Margo , Feng Hao , Holmes Jon , Geronemus Roy G.
Published: November 2020

Background and Objectives

Melasma may be related to aberrant blood vessels, but there has been no report on the utility of dynamic optical coherence tomography (D‐OCT) in studying vessel characteristics in melasma. We studied the characteristics of cutaneous blood vessels in melasma and the effects of oral tranexamic acid (TXA) with D‐OCT.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Six patients with moderate to severe melasma had a D‐OCT scanning of the areas on the face affected by melasma and not affected by it. Three of them had scans within 3 months after starting oral TXA and at a follow‐up visit. Blood flow at different depths of the skin and vessel diameter were compared between the melasma and normal skin. For those taking oral TXA, we compared the percent change of blood flow and diameter between the melasma and normal skin.

Results

Dermal blood flow and vessel diameter were greater in the melasma skin than in the normal skin. Oral TXA reduced dermal blood flow in both the melasma and normal skin, but the reduction was more dramatic in the lesional melasma skin.

Conclusions

D‐OCT findings that (i) dermal blood vessels in melasma are increased in size and flow and (ii) oral TXA reduced the vessel size and flow, providing evidence supporting the relationship between melasma and cutaneous blood vessels. D‐OCT may be utilized in measuring response to treatments targeting melasma. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC
The Impact of Color Fidelity on Evaluation of Patients in the Outpatient Dermatologic Setting
Authors: Juhasz Margit , Pham Christine , Allen Ryan , Harper Andrew , Siminovitch Michael , Brase Wendell , Linden Kenneth , Zachary Christopher , Atanaskova Mesinkovska Natasha
Published: November 2020

Background and Objectives

To demonstrate that high color fidelity light‐emitting diode (LED) sources are preferred by dermatologists for the evaluation of patients during standard‐of‐care, outpatient visits when compared to low color fidelity LED sources similar to fluorescent lighting.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Three different LED sources were installed in exam rooms at a single, academic, medical institution (low color fidelity [82 color rendering index (CRI)] similar to fluorescent lighting, and high color fidelity [97 CRI and 96+red CRI]). A cross‐sectional survey study was conducted in three parts. Naturalness (i.e. ability to reproduce natural, daylight conditions), effectiveness, color contrast, comfort, and overall performance of each LED source were rated on a 5‐point scale from 0 to 4 with 0 being the worse, and 4 being the best. The first part included a survey of board‐certified dermatologists (n = 3) assessing their visual experience while clinically evaluating a subset of patients during standard‐of‐care outpatient visits. The second survey was completed by dermatologic medical providers (n = 55) at three separate monthly departmental Grand Rounds sessions in which standardized patients were evaluated with the LED sources. Lastly, patients (n = 75) finished a survey assessing the comfort level of the LED sources.

Results

In the first part of the study, all dermatologists significantly preferred the high color fidelity sources over low color fidelity sources based on all five evaluation criteria, with two preferring the 97 CRI LED source overall, while the third dermatologist favored 96+red CRI. Assessments provided by the 55 participants at Grand Rounds demonstrated that the 97 CRI was most “liked.” Patients also preferred the high color fidelity LED source, reporting the 96+red CRI source was the “most comfortable.”

Conclusion

Dermatologists, dermatologists‐in‐training and mid‐level providers significantly prefer high color fidelity LED sources for outpatient evaluation of dermatologist patients in enclosed spaces, rating them the more natural, effective, comfortable, and providing superior color contrast than low color sources. Patients also favor high color fidelity LED sources as being the most comfortable in the clinic room. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC
THE START OF TIME SMART LEADERSHIP
Authors: Whillans Ashley
Published: November 2020

The author discusses the concept of “time poverty,” which she defines as “having too many things to do and not enough time to do them.” It is a problem because it undermines happiness and productivity and increases stress. For instance, in 2012, 50 percent of working Americans reported that they were “always rushed” and 70 percent “never had enough time.” In 2015, more than 80% didn’t have all the time they needed. Solutions are offered for leaders to help their organizations become more time affluent. The first step to developing “time smart” leadership is to recognize whether and how your workplace is making you, your team, and your workforce time poor. Companies that let workers decide where and when to do their jobs have workers who are happier, more productive, and less likely to quit. Where possible, a shift away from performance incentives and billing hours would be a massive boon for employees’ well‐being. Workplaces can help employees become time affluent by rewarding them with it. The best data show that employees who take the most time off, ask for extensions when needed, and uptake time‐saving rewards are the happiest, most productive, and least likely to quit.
Some weighted quadrature methods based upon the mean value theorems
Authors: Homeier Herbert H. H. , Srivastava Hari M. , Masjed‐Jamei Mohammad , Moalemi Zahra
Published: November 2020

In this paper, a class of weighted quadrature methods is introduced for smooth functions based upon the use of the mean value theorems. These new quadrature rules are also treated in a systematic approach involving formal series expansion. The convergence analysis of the proposed method is studied here for both the non‐weighted and the weighted cases. Some potential areas and directions for extensions and applications of the results, which are presented in this paper, are also indicated.
Stability analysis of distributed order of Hilfer nonlinear systems
Authors: Fernández‐Anaya G. , Quezada‐Téllez L. A. , Franco‐Pérez L.
Published: November 2020

For Hilfer derivatives of the product of two functions, we present equations and inequalities, generalizing well‐known results for Caputo and Riemann‐Liouville derivatives. Using the Laplace transformation, we introduce a generalized distributed Mittag‐Leffler‐Hilfer stability and show two results for like‐Lyapunov stability. We also extend equations and inequalities for the product of two functions of Hilfer derivatives of distributed order. Finally, we give some consequences and examples that illustrate the theory.
Gene expression changes occurring at bolting time are associated with leaf senescence in Arabidopsis
Authors: Hinckley Will E. , Brusslan Judy A.
Published: November 2020

In plants, the vegetative to reproductive phase transition (termed bolting in Arabidopsis) generally precedes age‐dependent leaf senescence (LS). Many studies describe a temporal link between bolting time and LS, as plants that bolt early, senesce early, and plants that bolt late, senesce late. The molecular mechanisms underlying this relationship are unknown and are potentially agriculturally important, as they may allow for the development of crops that can overcome early LS caused by stress‐related early‐phase transition. We hypothesized that leaf gene expression changes occurring in synchrony with bolting were regulating LS. ARABIDOPSIS TRITHORAX (ATX) enzymes are general methyltransferases that regulate the adult vegetative to reproductive phase transition. We generated an atx1, atx3, and atx4 (atx1,3,4) triple T‐DNA insertion mutant that displays both early bolting and early LS. This mutant was used in an RNA‐seq time‐series experiment to identify gene expression changes in rosette leaves that are likely associated with bolting. By comparing the early bolting mutant to vegetative WT plants of the same age, we were able to generate a list of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) that change expression with bolting as the plants age. We trimmed the list by intersection with publicly available WT datasets, which removed genes from our DEG list that were atx1,3,4 specific. The resulting 398 bolting‐associated genes (BAGs) are differentially expressed in a mature rosette leaf at bolting. The BAG list contains many well‐characterized LS regulators (ORE1, WRKY45, NAP, WRKY28), and GO analysis revealed enrichment for LS and LS‐related processes. These bolting‐associated LS regulators may contribute to the temporal coupling of bolting time to LS.
Theoretical Analysis on Operation Speed of the Circular Defect in 2D Photonic Crystal (CirD) Laser
Authors: Ye Hanqiao , Nishimura Tomoya , Xiong Yifan , Yamaguchi Takuya , Morifuji Masato , Kajii Hirotake , Kondow Masahiko
Published: November 2020

Herein a circular defect in a 2D photonic crystal (CirD) laser for wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) optical communications is theoretically analyzed. By coupling CirD lasers to a waveguide, a huge communication capacity can be expected. For example, if high‐speed, 50 Gbps laser operations are successfully achieved, WDM devices with 20 CirD lasers could achieve a communication capacity of 1 Tbps. Based on finite‐difference time‐domain (FDTD) simulation results, in this study, both current‐output and high‐frequency characteristics are investigated by solving 2D rate equations, revealing that an excessively high‐quality factor in laser cavities reduces the relaxation‐oscillation frequency. When the photon lifetime is 2 ps, which corresponds to a quality factor of ≈3000, a small threshold current of 5 μA and a high relaxation‐oscillation frequency of 40 GHz can be simultaneously obtained. These results suggest the potential of developing a WDM device using CirD lasers.
Impact of E‐Mode Gallium Nitride High Electron Mobility Transistor with P‐Type Gate on Waveform Distortion in an AirFuel Wireless Power Transfer System
Authors: Sun Shaoyu , Zhang Jianshan , Xia Ling , Wu Wengang , Wang Jinyan , Jin Yufeng
Published: November 2020

A wireless power transfer system using commercial lateral gallium nitride (GaN)‐based high electron mobility transistor (HEMT) is studied. Waveform distortions from an ideal class‐D zero‐voltage switching topology are observed. A special method is presented to accurately measure the dynamic resistance in the nanosecond scale. The origin of distortions is traced back to both the circuit and device levels. The receiver‐side condition and dynamic ON resistance of the GaN devices, as well as the thermal effects are responsible for the waveform distortion. The severity of deterioration of the GaN device is influenced by the circuit performance. Herein, the influence of the nonideal effects of the device on the system under different working conditions is studied. It is found that such influence can be reduced by adjusting the circuit design.
Spectroscopy of Nonradiative Recombination Levels by Two‐Wavelength Excited Photoluminescence
Authors: Kamata Norihiko
Published: November 2020

The intensity of photoluminescence (PL) changes when an additional below‐gap excitation (BGE) light modifies the electronic occupation of one of the crystalline defects acting as nonradiative recombination (NRR) levels and shifts the balance between radiative and NRR rates. The photon energy of above‐gap excitation (AGE) light selects the layer and determines the depth of inspection, whereas that of BGE corresponds to the energy distribution of the NRR levels. The essential advantage of two‐wavelength excited PL (TWEPL) lies on a systematic combination of BGE spectroscopy and AGE spectroscopy for a variety of materials. It provides the noncontacting and nondestructive detection of NRR levels, distributing in a whole wafer as well as in a microscopic volume. Density and the electron and hole capture rates of NRR level 1,Nt1,Cn1,andCp1, and those of level 2,Nt2andCp2, are determined consistently by the TWEPL measurement with the aid of time‐resolved PL. A brief review is given on the principle of the TWEPL, basic model of analysis, and experimental results of detecting NRR levels in GaAs/AlGaAs, InGaAs/GaAs, InAs/GaAs, GaN, InGaN, AlGaN, and GaPN. The method gives us a guiding compass toward the efficiency improvement of electronic devices from which PL is observable.
Laser‐ and Ion‐Induced Defect Engineering in WS2 Monolayers
Authors: Asaithambi Aswin , Kozubek Roland , Prinz Günther M. , Reale Francesco , Pollmann Erik , Ney Marcel , Mattevi Cecilia , Schleberger Marika , Lorke Axel
Published: November 2020

Tungsten disulfide is one of the prominent transition metal dichalcogenide materials, which shows a transition from an indirect to a direct bandgap as the layer thickness is reduced down to a monolayer. To use monolayers in devices, detailed knowledge about the luminescence properties regarding not only the excitonic but also the defect‐induced contributions is needed. Herein, monolayers are irradiated with ions with different fluences to create different defect densities. Apart from the excitonic contributions, two additional emission bands are observed at low temperatures. These bands can be reduced or even suppressed, if the flakes are exposed to laser light with powers up to 1.5 mW. Increasing the temperature up to room temperature leads to recovery of this emission, so that the luminescence properties can be modified using laser excitation and temperature. The defect bands emerging after ion irradiation are attributed to vacancy defects together with physisorbed adsorbates at different defect sites.
Advanced energy materials for flexible batteries in energy storage: A review
Authors: Kong Long , Tang Cheng , Peng Hong‐Jie , Huang Jia‐Qi , Zhang Qiang
Published: November 2020

Smart energy storage has revolutionized portable electronics and electrical vehicles. The current smart energy storage devices have penetrated into flexible electronic markets at an unprecedented rate. Flexible batteries are key power sources to enable vast flexible devices, which put forward additional requirements, such as bendable, twistable, stretchable, and ultrathin, to adapt mechanical deformation under the working conditions. This review summarizes the recent advances in construction and configuration of flexible batteries and discusses the general metrics to benchmark various flexible batteries with different materials and chemistries. Moreover, we present advanced prototype flexible batteries developed by some companies to afford general envision of the technological status. Lastly, the critical points are summarized in the development of flexible batteries and remaining challenges are also presented for the future design of flexible batteries in practical perspectives.
Organic photodetectors based on supramolecular nanostructures
Authors: Yao Yifan , Chen Yusheng , Wang Hanlin , Samorì Paolo
Published: November 2020

Self‐assembly of semiconducting (macro)molecules enables the development of materials with tailored‐made properties which could be used as active components for optoelectronics applications. Supramolecular nanostructures combine the merits of soft matter and crystalline materials: They are flexible yet highly crystalline, and they can be processed with low‐cost solution methods. Photodetectors are devices capable to convert a light input into an electrical signal. To achieve high photoresponse, the photogenerated charge carriers should be transported efficiently through the self‐assembled nanostructures to reach the electrodes; this can be guaranteed via optimal π–electron overlapping between adjacent conjugated molecules. Moreover, because of the high surface‐to‐bulk ratio, supramolecular nanostructures are prone to enhance exciton dissociation. These qualities make supramolecular nanostructures perfect platforms for photoelectric conversion. This review highlights the most enlightening recent strategies developed for the fabrication of high‐performance photodetectors based on supramolecular nanostructures. We introduce the key figure‐of‐merit parameters and working mechanisms of organic photodetectors based on single components and p–n heterojunctions. In particular, we describe new methods to devise unprecedented planar and vertical devices to ultimately realize highly integrated and flexible photodetectors. The incorporation of ordered mesoscopic supramolecular nanostructures into macroscopic optoelectronic devices will offer great promise for the next generation of multifunctional and multiresponsive devices.
Quantifying Quasi‐Fermi Level Splitting and Open‐Circuit Voltage Losses in Highly Efficient Nonfullerene Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Phuong Le Quang , Hosseini Seyed Mehrdad , Sandberg Oskar J. , Zou Yingping , Woo Han Young , Neher Dieter , Shoaee Safa
Published: November 2020

The power conversion efficiency (PCE) of state‐of‐the‐art organic solar cells is still limited by significant open‐circuit voltage (VOC) losses, partly due to the excitonic nature of organic materials and partly due to ill‐designed architectures. Thus, quantifying different contributions of the VOC losses is of importance to enable further improvements in the performance of organic solar cells. Herein, the spectroscopic and semiconductor device physics approaches are combined to identify and quantify losses from surface recombination and bulk recombination. Several state‐of‐the‐art systems that demonstrate different VOC losses in their performance are presented. By evaluating the quasi‐Fermi level splitting (QFLS) and the VOC as a function of the excitation fluence in nonfullerene‐based PM6:Y6, PM6:Y11, and fullerene‐based PPDT2FBT:PCBM devices with different architectures, the voltage losses due to different recombination processes occurring in the active layers, the transport layers, and at the interfaces are assessed. It is found that surface recombination at interfaces in the studied solar cells is negligible, and thus, suppressing the non‐radiative recombination in the active layers is the key factor to enhance the PCE of these devices. This study provides a universal tool to explain and further improve the performance of recently demonstrated high‐open‐circuit‐voltage organic solar cells.
Molecular Donor–Acceptor Dyads for Efficient Single‐Material Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Lucas Sebastian , Kammerer Jochen , Pfannmöller Martin , Schröder Rasmus R. , He Yakun , Li Ning , Brabec Christoph J. , Leydecker Tim , Samorì Paolo , Marszalek Tomasz , Pisula Wojchiech , Mena‐Osteritz Elena , Bäuerle Peter
Published: November 2020

Single‐material organic solar cells (SMOSCs) promise several advantages with respect to prospective applications in printed large‐area solar foils. Only one photoactive material has to be processed and the impressive thermal and photochemical long‐term stability of the devices is achieved. Herein, a novel structural design of oligomeric donor–acceptor (D–A) dyads 1–3 is established, in which an oligothiophene donor and fullerene acceptor are covalently linked by a flexible spacer of variable length. Favorable optoelectronic, charge transport, and self‐organization properties of the D–A dyads are the basis for reaching power conversion efficiencies up to 4.26% in SMOSCs. The dependence of photovoltaic and charge transport parameters in these ambipolar semiconductors on the specific molecular structure is investigated before and after post‐treatment by solvent vapor annealing. The inner nanomorphology of the photoactive films of the dyads is analyzed with transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and grazing‐incidence wide‐angle X‐ray scattering (GIWAXS). Combined theoretical calculations result in a lamellar supramolecular order of the dyads with a D–A phase separation smaller than 2 nm. The molecular design and the precise distance between donor and acceptor moieties ensure the fundamental physical processes operative in organic solar cells and provide stabilization of D–A interfaces.
How do open source app developers perceive API changes related to Android battery optimization? An empirical study
Authors: C Marimuthu , Chimalakonda Sridhar , K Chandrasekaran
Published: November 2020

There is an increasing interest shown by researchers and developers in reducing the battery consumption of Android applications. Recently, the battery optimization features such as doze mode, app standby, background execution limits, and background location limits were introduced in the form of API changes. According to the API changes, application developers have to change their source code to manage the behavioral changes caused by operating system limitations. These battery optimization features are evolving rapidly, and the apps show unexpected behaviors until updating the source code. Also, developers find it difficult to cope with the changes. Therefore, there is a need to understand the behavioral changes, application developer's perceptions, and response patterns on the API changes to plan upcoming battery optimization features. In this article, we have collected the relevant GitHub issues from 225 open‐source Android repositories and performed a thematic analysis of collected data. This study analyzes the 391 related issues to answer three research questions. This study's important finding is that developers often post issues related to delayed app notifications, inconsistent background location updates, and suspended background tasks, and so on. We found that library developers are showing a quick response to API changes compared with application developers.
First case report on the occurrence of Trypanosoma evansi in a Siam B Mare in Kelantan, Malaysia
Authors: Mohd Rajdi Nur Zul Izzati , Mohamad Mimi Armiladiana , Tan Li Peng , Choong Siew Shean , Reduan Mohd Farhan Hanif , Hamdan Ruhil Hayati , C. W. Zalati C. W. Salma
Published: November 2020

This is the first case report for the positive Trypanosoma evansi incident in Kelantan, Malaysia confirmed through protozoa detection in a Siam B mare. The horse was presented with complaints of lethargy and inappetence and it collapsed on the day of visit. Normal saline and dextrose solution were administered intravenously, while multivitamins and nerve supplements were given intramuscularly to stabilise the horse before further treatment. Haematological findings showed normocytic hypochromic anaemia and are suggestive of regenerative anaemia. Thin blood smear and examination revealed the presence of Trypanosoma sp., and it was confirmed as T. evansi through molecular identification. The horse was found dead 2 days after and post‐mortem was conducted. Histopathology revealed that the horse had developed a neurological form of the disease, besides the detection of the protozoa in heart, spleen and kidney tissue. This first positive Surra case in Kelantan, Malaysia, that is bordering Thailand confirms the increasing concern of transboundary infections. In conclusion, Surra is a potential emerging disease and should be considered as differential diagnosis in horses with pale mucous membrane. This condition is particularly imperative in horses found in these regions as Surra is endemic.
Evaluation of various levels of sweet almond meal as a source of protein on the production variables and immune response of broiler chickens
Authors: Moradi Yeganeh Zeinab , Salari Somayyeh , Mirzadeh Khalil , Sari Mohsen , Ghorbani Mohammadreza
Published: November 2020

This study was conducted to evaluate effects of a sweet almond meal (SAM) as a source of protein on performance and immune responses of broiler chickens. Treatments consisted of different levels of SAM (7%, 14%, 21% and 28% of diet) and control diet that was performed in a completely randomized design in 42 days. Body weight gain (BWG) and feed intake (FI) were recorded weekly. Carcass characteristics and blood variables were measured on the 42 day of age. Immune response to sheep red blood cell (SRBC) was assessed at d 35 and d 42 (7 days after each injection). White blood cell count was done at d 28. The results showed that chickens fed 28% of SAM had lowest FI during the experiment. During grower period and also whole period of experiment, BWG was highest in chickens that consumed 7% SAM. Feed conversion ratio (FCR) significantly increased in chickens fed 28% SAM compared to the other treatments during grower period and also whole period of the experiment. The relative weight of thigh and breast significantly decreased and the relative weight of GIT increased by increasing levels of SAM in the diet. The concentration of cholesterol and LDL significantly decreased in chickens that consumed SAM in the diet. However, the highest glucose and HDL concentration were observed in chickens fed 28% SAM in the diet. Treatments did not have a significant effect on the immune response of broilers (primary and secondary SRBC antibody titres, relative weights of spleen and bursa of fabricius and white blood cell count) (p > 0.05). The results of this study show that a diet supplemented with SAM at the level of 14%, due to the improved FCR and decreased blood cholesterol and LDL concentration, can be a good replacement for soybean meal in broiler chicken's nutrition.
Influence of Salmonella specific bacteriophages (O1; S16) on the shedding of naturally occurring Salmonella and an orally applied Salmonella Eastbourne strain in bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps)
Authors: Renfert Kevin , Rabsch Wolfgang , Fruth Angelika , Marschang Rachel E. , Speck Stephanie , Pees Michael
Published: November 2020

This study determined the passage time and phage propagation time of salmonella specific phages, Felix O1 and S16, in 10 bearded dragons, based on re‐isolation from cloacal swabs and faecal samples following oral administration, as a possible tool for reducing salmonella shedding. In Study 1, Felix O1 was administered orally for 12 consecutive days. Over 60 days, swabs were taken from the oral cavity and cloaca and qualitative Salmonella detection as well as salmonella quantification from faecal samples were performed. In Study 2, a phage cocktail (Felix O1 and S16) was administered to half of the tested animals. Salmonella (S.) Eastbourne was also given orally to all animals. Oral and cloacal swabs were tested as in Study 1, and faecal samples were collected for phage quantification. Various Salmonella serovars were detectable at the beginning of the study. The numbers of serovars detected declined over the course of the study. S. Kisarawe was most commonly detected. Salmonella titres ranged from 102 to 107 cfu/g faeces. The phages (Felix O1 and S16) were detectable for up to 20 days after the last administration. The initial phage titres ranged from 103 to 107 pfu/ml. The study shows that the phages were able to replicate in the intestine, and were shed for a prolonged period and therefore could contribute to a reduction of Salmonella shedding.
Antibiotic use in pig farming and its associated factors in L County in Yunnan, China
Authors: Fang Jing , Gong Guodong , Yuan Jingsong , Sun Xiao
Published: November 2020

China has a long history of pig rearing, and it currently raises and consumes approximately half of the pigs in the world. Major improvements have been made in pig farming in China in the last four decades with the growing application of new livestock farming technologies. Among the new improvements, the use of antibiotics in pig farming is a common but not well‐documented practise. In order to understand the behaviour of the farmers regarding antibiotic use in pig farming, we conducted a household survey in four townships of L County in Yunnan Province, China, during August 2014 and April 2015. In this survey, 404 farmer households were interviewed using a questionnaire. Among the farmers interviewed, 89% reported easy access to antibiotics, 83.7% reported experience of self‐purchasing antibiotics, and 40.3% reported that they often used antibiotics in pig farming mainly for the prevention and treatment of pig diseases. These farmers identified 20 antibiotics that they had used in pig farming 6 months before the survey. Of these, 11 and 8 antibiotics have been categorised under ‘critically important’ and ‘highly important’ antimicrobial groups, respectively, by the World Health Organization (WHO), and 12 and 8 have been categorised under the ‘Watch’ and ‘Access’ groups, respectively, as per the 2019 WHO AWaRe classification of antibiotics. Factors associated with the behaviour of self‐purchasing antibiotics included types of farms, sources of antibiotics, and previous experiences of pig diseases: those who were smallholders, buying antibiotics from veterinary drugstores and village vets, and whose pigs had suffered diseases previously were more likely to self‐purchase antibiotics for their pigs. Farmers who cleaned their pigsties less frequently and those whose pigs had suffered from diseases used antibiotics more frequently as compared to their peer farmers.
Yeast communities associated with cacti in Brazil and the description of Kluyveromyces starmeri sp. nov. based on phylogenomic analyses
Authors: Freitas Larissa F.D. , Batista Thiago M. , Santos Ana R.O. , Hilário Heron O. , Moreira Rennan G. , Franco Glória R. , Morais Paula B. , Lachance Marc‐André , Rosa Carlos A.
Published: November 2020

Yeast communities associated with cacti were studied in three ecosystems of Southeast, Central and North Brazil. A total of 473 yeast strains belonging to 72 species were isolated from 190 samples collected. Cactophilic yeast species were prevalent in necrotic tissues, flowers, fruits and insects of cacti collected in Southeast and North Brazil. Pichia cactophila, Candida sonorensis and species of the Sporopachydermia complex were the most prevalent cactophilic species in Southeast and Central regions. Kodamaea nitidulidarum, Candida restingae and Wickerhamiella cacticola were frequently associated with cactus flowers and fruits. The diversity of yeasts associated with the substrates studied was high. Twenty‐one novel species were found. One is described here as Kluyveromyces starmeri sp. nov. based on 21 isolates obtained from necrotic tissues, flowers, fruits and associated insects of the columnar cacti Cereus saddianus, Micranthocereus dolichospermaticus and Pilosocereus arrabidae in two different ecosystems in Brazil. Phylogenetic analyses of sequences encoding the gene of the small subunit (SSU) rRNA gene, the internal transcribed spacer, the 5.8S rRNA gene and the D1/D2 domains of the large subunit (LSU) rRNA showed that the species is related to Kluyveromyces dobzhanskii, Kluyveromyces lactis and Kluyveromyces marxianus. Phylogenomic analyses based on 1264 conserved genes shared among the new species and 19 other members of the Saccharomycetaceae confirmed this phylogenetic relationship. The holotype is K. starmeri sp. nov. CBS 16103T (=UFMG‐CM‐Y3682T). The Mycobank number is MB 836817.
Partial associativity and rough approximate groups
Authors: Gowers W. T. , Long J.
Published: November 2020

Suppose that a binary operation $$\circ $$
∘
on a finite set X is injective in each variable separately and also associative. It is easy to prove that $$(X,\circ )$$

(
X
,
∘
)

must be a group. In this paper we examine what happens if one knows only that a positive proportion of the triples $$(x,y,z)\in X^3$$

(
x
,
y
,
z
)

∈

X
3

satisfy the equation $$x\circ (y\circ z)=(x\circ y)\circ z$$

x
∘
(
y
∘
z
)
=
(
x
∘
y
)
∘
z

. Other results in additive combinatorics would lead one to expect that there must be an underlying ‘group-like’ structure that is responsible for the large number of associative triples. We prove that this is indeed the case: there must be a proportional-sized subset of the multiplication table that approximately agrees with part of the multiplication table of a metric group. A recent result of Green shows that this metric approximation is necessary: it is not always possible to obtain a proportional-sized subset that agrees with part of the multiplication table of a group.
Determination of organically bound fluorine sum parameters in river water samples—comparison of combustion ion chromatography (CIC) and high resolution-continuum source-graphite furnace molecular absorption spectrometry (HR-CS-GFMAS)
Authors: Gehrenkemper Lennart , Simon Fabian , Roesch Philipp , Fischer Emily , von der Au Marcus , Pfeifer Jens , Cossmer Antje , Wittwer Philipp , Vogel Christian , Simon Franz-Georg , Meermann Björn
Published: November 2020

In this study, we compare combustion ion chromatography (CIC) and high resolution-continuum source-graphite furnace molecular absorption spectrometry (HR-CS-GFMAS) with respect to their applicability for determining organically bound fluorine sum parameters. Extractable (EOF) and adsorbable (AOF) organically bound fluorine as well as total fluorine (TF) were measured in samples from river Spree in Berlin, Germany, to reveal the advantages and disadvantages of the two techniques used as well as the two established fluorine sum parameters AOF and EOF. TF concentrations determined via HR-CS-GFMAS and CIC were comparable between 148 and 270 μg/L. On average, AOF concentrations were higher than EOF concentrations, with AOF making up 0.14–0.81% of TF (determined using CIC) and EOF 0.04–0.28% of TF (determined using HR-CS-GFMAS). The results obtained by the two independent methods were in good agreement. It turned out that HR-CS-GFMAS is a more sensitive and precise method for fluorine analysis compared to CIC. EOF and AOF are comparable tools in risk evaluation for the emerging pollutants per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances; however, EOF is much faster to conduct.
Police Transportation Following Vehicular Trauma and Risk of Mortality in a Resource‐Limited Setting
Authors: Purcell Laura N. , Mulima Gift , Nip Emily , Yohan Avital , Gallaher Jared , Charles Anthony
Published: November 2020

Background

In resource‐limited settings, prehospital trauma care and transportation from the scene to a hospital is not well developed. Critically injured patients present to the hospital via privately owned vehicles (PV), public transportation, or the police. We aimed to determine the mortality following road traffic injury based on the mode of transportation to our trauma center.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of the Kamuzu Central Hospital (KCH) Trauma Registry from January 2011 to May 2018. Patients with road traffic injuries, presenting from the scene, were included. Those brought in dead or discharged from casualty were excluded. Bivariate analysis was performed over mortality. A Poisson multivariate regression determined the relative risk of mortality by prehospital transportation.

Results

2853 patients were included; 7.8% (n = 223) died. Patients were transported by PV (n = 1963, 68.8%), minibus (n = 497, 17.4%), and police (268, 9.4%). No patients were transported by ambulance. Patients transported by police (1 h, IQR 0–2) and PV (1 h, IQR 0–2), arrived earlier than those transported by minibus (2 h, IQR 0–27), p < 0.001. There was no difference in injury severity between the transportation cohorts. Compared to PV, patients transported by police (RR 1.56, 95% CI 1.13–2.17, p = 0.008) have an increased risk of mortality after controlling for injury severity. There was no difference in mortality in patients presenting by minibus (RR 0.83, 95% CI 0.55–1.24, p = 0.4).

Conclusion

Patients transported to KCH via police have a higher risk of mortality than those transported via private vehicle after controlling for injury severity. Training police in basic life support may be an initial target of intervention in reducing trauma mortality. Overall, the creation of a functional prehospital ambulance system with a cadre of paramedics is necessary for both trauma and non‐trauma patients alike. This can only be achieved by training all stakeholders, the police, public transport drivers, and the public at large.
Monitoring formaldehyde in a shock tube with a fast dual-comb spectrometer operating in the spectral range of 1740–1790 cm–1
Authors: Fjodorow Peter , Allmendinger Pitt , Horvath Raphael , Herzler Jürgen , Eigenmann Florian , Geiser Markus , Fikri Mustapha , Schulz Christof
Published: November 2020

A dual-frequency-comb spectrometer based on two quantum-cascade lasers is applied to kinetics studies of formaldehyde (HCHO) in a shock tube. Multispectral absorption measurements are carried out in a broad spectral range of 1740–1790 cm–1 at temperatures of 800–1500 K and pressures of 2–3 bar. The formation of HCHO from thermal decomposition of 1,3,5-trioxane (C3H6O3, 0.9% diluted in argon) and the subsequent oxidation of formaldehyde is monitored with a time resolution of 4 µs. The rate coefficient of the decomposition of C3H6O3 (i.e., HCHO formation) is found to be k1 = 6.0 × 1015 exp(− 205.58 kJ mol−1/RT) s–1. For the oxidation studies, mixtures of 0.36% C3H6O3 and 1% O2 in argon are used. The information of all laser lines, along with the consideration of individual signal variance of each line, is utilized for kinetic and spectral analysis. The experimental kinetic profiles of HCHO are compared with simulations based on the mechanisms of Zhou et al. (Combust Flame, 197:423–438, 2018) and Cai and Pitsch (Combust Flame, 162:1623–1637, 2015).
The uncertainty of the experimentally-measured momentum coefficient
Authors: Semaan Richard
Published: November 2020

We quantify the uncertainty of the momentum coefficient, $$C_{\mu}$$

C
μ

, for six different experimental approaches. The approaches vary depending on compressibility effects and on the utilized acquisition equipment to measure the product of the mass flow rate with the jet exit velocity. The uncertainty of the directly-measured variables is propagated into the momentum coefficient using the Taylor expansion method to the first order. All relevant random and systematic uncertainties are meticulously quantified and listed. The analysis reveals unacceptably high uncertainty of the momentum coefficient under certain settings. Practical solutions to minimize the sources of uncertainty are then proposed and analyzed. The proposed improvements on the benchmark example of a Coanda actuator with a high aspect ratio slot reduce the uncertainty of $$C_{\mu}$$

C
μ

significantly but not sufficiently, as it remains at a non-negligible value of $$\approx 11\%$$

≈
11
%

for the best scenario. Finally, a list of practical recommendations and guidelines on how to accurately estimate the momentum coefficient experimentally is provided.

Graphic abstract
Interannual and decadal covariabilities in East Asian and Western North Pacific summer rainfall for 1979–2016
Authors: Kim Seogyeong , Ha Kyung-Ja
Published: November 2020

Understanding the variabilities of East Asian summer rainfall (EASR) and Western North Pacific summer rainfall (WNPSR) is essential because they play a key role to control the energy and water supply. Monsoon index is generally defined by seasonal mean, but it is not appropriate for considering various timescale characteristics. Because it includes the influence of not only the interannual but also longer timescales. Thus, the several timescale variances in the indices and background fields should be isolated as each variability to focus on their own features. Here, the present study defines the EASR and WNPSR indices to explore potential factors that may trigger the enhanced rainfall for the period 1979–2016. Interannual variation is shown to be dominant in both indices, while decadal variation is more significant in WNPSR than EASR. Each index is decomposed to obtain a signal on interannual and decadal timescales with 1–7 and 8–15 years. The interannual components in both indices perform opposite each other in atmospheric and oceanic fields and have a negative relationship with high covariance. Both location of subtropical jet and thermal condition over the Indian Ocean contribute to interannual EASR and WNPSR as factors. In contrast, related fields upon both decadal indices represent distinguished patterns. The EASR is modulated by Pacific sea surface temperature anomalies (SSTA) and interdecadal oscillation patterns in the decadal timescale. However, the WNPSR is controlled by the tri-polar SSTA over the North Atlantic. Consequently, the decadal and interannual variabilities show differing mechanisms to adjust rainfall during monsoon events.
Cardiorespiratory fitness, occupational aerobic workload and age: workplace measurements among blue-collar workers
Authors: Stevens Matthew Leigh , Crowley Patrick , Holtermann Andreas , Mortensen Ole Steen , Korshøj Mette
Published: November 2020

Background

The knowledge, from laboratory studies dating back to the 1950s on the importance of the association between cardiorespiratory fitness and aerobic workload for workers health, is fundamental for promoting sustainable healthy employability among ageing blue-collar workers today. However, the association between cardiorespiratory fitness and aerobic workload has not yet been documented during daily work, and we do not know if it applies to the normal work of blue-collar workers in different age groups. We aim to investigate the association between cardiorespiratory fitness and aerobic workload among blue-collar workers using measurements of 24-h heart rate collected over consecutive working days.

Methods

We analyzed baseline cardiorespiratory fitness, assessed using a sub-maximal cycle ergometer test, and 1–4 days of 24-h heart rate measurement from 497 blue-collar workers participating in the DPHACTO study. We investigated the association between cardiorespiratory fitness and aerobic workload defined as the average percentage of heart rate reserve (%HRR), maximum %HRR and the duration time spent at a high HRR (> 30%) during working hours. The association was assessed using multivariate linear regression models adjusted for age, sex, self-rated health, shift-work, prescription medication and occupation, as well as for different age strata.

Results

Higher cardiorespiratory fitness was significantly associated with decreased mean %HRR −0.32 [95% CI −0.39 to −0.25], maximum %HRR −0.35 [95% CI −0.45 to −0.25] and time spent at  ≥ 30% HRR; −1.8% [95% CI −2.2 to −1.5%]. These associations were evident across age groups, with slightly stronger associations for workers aged 46–51 (total range 18–68).

Conclusions

Higher cardiorespiratory fitness was associated with the decreased aerobic workload during normal work across all age groups and levels of work intensity. Our findings highlight the importance of cardiorespiratory fitness when considering the workload and its relevance in the promotion of healthy sustainable employment.