bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Time- and media-saving testing and identification of microorganisms by multipoint inoculation on undivided agar plates
Authors: Burman L G , Ostensson R
Published: June 2021

Motility and various biochemical activities of isolates of bacteria and yeasts were tested on undivided agar plates by using a simple, manually operated multipoint inoculation apparatus that allowed the analysis of 25 isolates per 9-cm-diameter petri plate. Fermentation of all 17 carbohydrates tested as well as 13 other biochemical activities commonly used for identification of bacteria were readily demonstrated by the multipoint inoculation plate method, and the results agreed very well with those of conventional tube tests. In addition to speedy inoculation and low cost of materials, the multipoint inoculation plate method offers several other advantages when compared with conventional tube tests or with some of the manufactured test kits currently available for recognizing members of the family Enterobacteriaceae.
Identification of Rickettsia rickettsii in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues by immunofluorescence
Authors: Hall W C , Bagley L R
Published: June 2021

With slight modification of a trypsin digestion technique, Rickettsia rickettsii were demonstrated specifically by immunofluorescence staining in Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue sections from a human, rhesus monkey, and guinea pig with Rocky Mountain spotted fever and in infected membranes from a chicken embryo. Tissues were cut at 4 micron and, using geltain as a tissue adhesive, were hydrated in a routine manner. Sections were then digested in refrigerated 0.1% trypsin for 16 h, washed, and stained specifically for R. rickettsii by direct or indirect immunofluorescence. Rickettsial organisms were localized in affected vessels of the mammalian species and within the yolk sac epithelium of the chicken embryo. Specificity was confirmed by adsorbing antibody conjugates with R. rickettsii organisms. Trypsin digestion probably decreased tissue proteins which interfered with immunochemical attachment of antibody to the rickettsiae. The technique is valuable in that a diagnosis of Rocky Mountain spotted fever can be confirmed from Formalin-fixed tissues processed in a routine manner.
Radial passive immune hemolysis assay for detection of heat-labile enterotoxin produced by individual colonies of Escherichia coli or Vibrio cholerae
Authors: Bramucci M G , Holmes R K
Published: June 2021

A rapid screening test has been developed to detect heat-labile enterotoxin produced by individual colonies of Escherichia coli or Vibrio cholerae growing on media solidified with agar. The applicability of this method for isolating tox mutants of E. coli and V. cholerae has been demonstrated.
Measurement of rotavirus antibody by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay blocking assay
Authors: Yolken R H , Wyatt R G , Barbour B A , Kim H W , Kapikian A Z , Chanock R M
Published: June 2021

A new method for the measurement of rotavirus antibody is described, utilizing the system of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In this method, serum is incubated with a fixed amount of rotavirus antigen, and the amount of antibody is determined by measuring the amount of unneutralized antigen. Such an assay system proved to be as efficient as the other available rotaviral antibody systems. The ELISA blocking assay also has the advantages of not requiring purified or gnotobiotic antigen and of being able to measure rotaviral antibody in all animal species.
Identification of atypical mycobacteria by thin-layer chromatography of their surface antigens
Authors: Brennan P J , Souhrada M , Ullom B , McClatchy J K , Goren M B
Published: June 2021

The knowledge that the surface (Schaefer) antigens of certain smooth-colony atypical mycobacteria are multiglycosylated C-mycosidic peptidoglycolipids was used to devise a sensitive thin-layer chromatographic (TLC) procedure for the identification of Mycobacterium avium/M. intracellulare/M. scrofulaceum serotypes. TLC maps of the type-specific peptidoglycolipids from 17 of the 31 serotypes are presented. The primary use of the technique is to corroborate results obtained by seroagglutination. Without the aid of seroagglutination, the TLC procedure almost invariably requires the availability of reference strains or the specific peptidoglycolipids derived therefrom.
Thermotolerance of Wangiella dermatitidis
Authors: Padhye A A , McGinnis M R , Ajello L
Published: June 2021

A variety of diagnostic tests used by many laboratories to identify isolates of Wangiella dermatitidis (= Fonsecaea dermatitidis) were evaluated. Thirteeen isolates of W. dermatitidis were studied with respect to their ability to grow at 25, 37, 40, 45, and 50 degrees C, colonial and micromorphology, gelatin liquefaction, and hydrolysis of casein, xanthine, hypoxanthine, and tyrosine. All 13 isolates showed growth at 25, 37, and 40 degrees C but failed to grow at higher temperatures. The ability of W. dermatitidis to grow at 40 degrees C can be useful in its identification.
Comparison of immunogenicity of a whole virion and a subunit influenza vaccine in adults
Authors: Ortbals D W , Liebhaber H
Published: June 2021

The immunogenicity and reactogenicity of a whole virus (Merck Sharp & Dohme) and a subunit (Wyeth) influenza A/New Jersey/76 vaccine were compared in a group of 214 normal adult subjects. Both the seroconversion rate and the magnitutde of hemagglutination inhibition antibody response were significantly (P less than 0.01) lower in the recipients of the subunit vaccine, whereas there were no significant differences in local or systemic reactions between the two preparations. On the basis of these data, we question the previous Public Health Service recommendation that one dose of either preparation of the influenza A/New Jersey/76 vaccine is equally efficacious in individuals over 24 years of age.
Antibody Assays for Varicella-Zoster Virus: Comparison of Enzyme Immunoassay with Neutralization, Immune Adherence Hemagglutination, and Complement Fixation
Authors: Forghani Bagher , Schmidt Nathalie J. , Dennis Juanita
Published: June 2021

An enzyme immunossay (EIA) was adapted for detection of antibody to varicella-zoster virus, and its sensitivity and specificity were compared with those of neutralization, immune adherence hemagglutination (IAHA), and complement fixation tests. Test sera showed little nonspecific reactivity in the EIA system, and valid results could usually be obtained at serum dilutions as low as 1:8. Demonstration of the presence or absence of varicella-zoster viral antibody by EIA showed 94% correlation with results obtained in neutralization tests, but EIA titers were 2- to 16-fold higher than neutralizing antibody titers. Results by IAHA showed 87% correlation with those obtained by neutralization. No false positive IAHA results were seen, but a number of false negative IAHA results were seen at the 1:8 serum dilution, particularly in older individuals. With increasing age (>40 years), and presumably increased time from varicella infection, neutralizing antibody levels generally declined to 1:8 or 1:16, EIA levels fell to 1:128 or 1:256, and IAHA and complement fixation antibody titers were usually <1:8 or 1:8. EIA and IAHA were as reliable as the neutralization and complement fixation tests for serodiagnosis of varicella and zoster infections. All tests demonstrated heterotypic varicella-zoster antibody titer rises in selected patients with initial herpes simplex virus infections, but fewer heterotypic responses were seen by EIA than by the other methods. EIA offers a rapid, sensitive, and specific method for varicella-zoster antibody assay that is applicable to use in a clinical setting.
Abscess associated with Rothia dentocariosa
Authors: Lutwick L I , Rockhill R C
Published: June 2021

Rothia dentocariosa, an aerobic member of the Actinomycetaceae, was isolated from a pilonidal abscess. The clinical occurrence, bacteriological characteristics, and antimicrobial sensitivity pattern are presented.
Effects of Storage in an Anaerobic Transport System on Bacteria in Known Polymicrobial Mixtures and in Clinical Specimens
Authors: Hill Gale B.
Published: June 2021

An anaerobic transport system (ATS) which provides for catalytic removal of oxygen was evaluated by using in vitro-prepared polymicrobial mixtures of logphase bacteria and clinical specimens. Inoculated swabs were stored at room temperature in (i) aerobic, (ii) anaerobic glove box, and (iii) ATS environments, and bacteria were quantitated after 2, 24, 48, and 72 h. Bacteria in a three-part mixture of
Bacteroides fragilis, Peptostreptococcus anaerobius
, and
Escherichia coli
and in a five-part mixture of
B. fragilis, P. anaerobius, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Staphylococcus epidermidis
, and
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
survived 72 h of storage in the ATS and anaerobic glove box environments, but the anaerobic species were inactivated in the aerobic storage except for
B. fragilis
in pure culture or in the three-part mixture. Changes in relative proportions among the species in a mixture were least in the ATS and anaerobic glove box environments and greatest during the aerobic storage, particularly in the five-part mixture. Bacteria present in pure or mixed culture in clinical specimens generally survived 72 h of storage in the ATS. These data indicate that changes in relative proportions occur with prolonged storage even under anaerobic conditions, but that the ATS would be most effective for preserving anaerobic bacteria and preventing drastic concentration changes and overgrowth of facultative and aerobic bacteria.
40Ar/39Ar age evidence for an impact-generated hydrothermal system in the Devonian Siljan crater, Sweden
Authors: Herrmann* Maria , Alwmark Carl , Storey Michael
Published: June 2021

Crater-forming events are generally followed by the development of hydrothermal systems due to the rapid heating of the target rock. Such hydrothermal systems are a feature of nearly all large terrestrial impact structures. For the Siljan impact structure in Sweden, there is evidence for such a fossil hydrothermal system, possibly triggered by the impact event ca. 380 Ma. To investigate the thermal regime of the near-surface hydrothermal activity of the Siljan crater, biotite and amphibole grains extracted from samples collected in a transect across the high-pressure regime recorded by the central uplift, as well as from distal localities outside the central uplift of the crater, were dated using the 40Ar/39Ar laser step-heating technique. Our results show that biotite from inside the central uplift, which was strongly altered to chlorite by low-temperature (200–340 °C) hydrothermal reactions, yields strongly disturbed age spectra. The first and second (low laser power) step ages range from ca. 1300 to 190 Ma. In contrast, biotite from outside the central uplift and amphibole, irrespective of location inside or outside of the central uplift, are much less altered, which is reflected in less disturbed, near-flat age spectra. This result indicates that the hydrothermal temperatures inside the central uplift were >200 °C, sufficient to disturb the K-Ar system of biotite during its chloritization, but too low to affect the amphibole (closure temperature of 480–580 °C). In contrast, the temperature of the hydrothermal system outside of the central uplift was <200 °C, as no significant reset of the K-Ar system can be observed in either biotite or amphibole. Our results are consistent with estimated trapping temperatures from fluid inclusion studies, which show a decrease from 327–342 °C within the central uplift to 40–225 °C toward outside the central uplift. We conclude that the near-surface hydrothermal system in the Siljan impact structure was an impact-triggered system. This system was strongly active, with its highest temperature inside the central uplift and decreasing rapidly toward the outlying part of the crater.
Composite Materials Manufactured by Photopolymer 3D Printing with Metal-Organic Frameworks
Authors: Cherevko A. I. , Denisov G. L. , Nikovskii I. A. , Polezhaev A. V. , Korlyukov A. A. , Novikov V. V.
Published: June 2021

New composite materials containing metal-organic framework (MOF-5) particles were manufactured by 3D printing. The optimal composition of the photopolymer formulation and printing conditions ensuring the highest quality of printing were selected. Retention of the metal-organic framework (MOF) structure in the resulting composite objects was demonstrated by powder X-ray diffraction. The distribution of MOF-5 particles over the whole bulk of the 3D product was studied by X-ray computed tomography. In the future, composite materials of this type containing catalytically active MOFs, with their structure and properties being controllable at the micro and macro levels, could find application as catalysts of various chemical processes.
Magnesium and Nickel Complexes with Bis(p-iminoquinone) Redox-Active Ligand
Authors: Meshcheryakova I. N. , Trofimova O. Yu. , Druzhkov N. O. , Pashanova K. I. , Yakushev I. A. , Dorovatovskii P. V. , Khrizanforov M. N. , Budnikova Yu. G. , Aisin R. R. , Piskunov A. V.
Published: June 2021

Poorly soluble in the most part of organic solvents dimeric complexes $${\text{M}}{{{\text{g}}}_{{\text{2}}}}{\text{L}}_{2}^{2}$$·4DMF (I) and $${\text{N}}{{{\text{i}}}_{{\text{2}}}}{\text{L}}_{2}^{2}$$·4DMF (II) (L is 4,4'-(1,4-phenylenebis(azanylylidene))bis(3,6-di-tert-butyl-2-hydroxycyclohexa-2,5-dien-1-one dianion)) are synthesized by the reactions of magnesium and nickel acetates with the ditopic redox-active ligand of the hydroxy-para-iminoquinone type in a DMF solution. The molecular and crystal structures of the synthesized compounds are determined by X-ray diffraction analysis (CIF files CCDC nos. 2045665 (I) and 2045666 (II·3DMF)). The thermal stability is studied by thermogravimetry. The redox-active character of the organic bridging ligand in the dimeric complexes $${\text{M}}{{{\text{g}}}_{{\text{2}}}}{\text{L}}_{2}^{2}$$·4DMF and $${\text{N}}{{{\text{i}}}_{{\text{2}}}}{\text{L}}_{2}^{2}$$·4DMF is confirmed by the data of solid-phase electrochemistry.
BRST analysis and BFV quantization of the generalized quantum rigid rotor
Authors: Thibes Ronaldo
Published: June 2021

We identify a strong similarity among several distinct originally second-class systems, including both mechanical and field theory models, which can be naturally described in a gauge-invariant way. The canonical structure of such related systems is encoded into a gauge-invariant generalization of the quantum rigid rotor. We perform the BRST symmetry analysis and the BFV functional quantization for the mentioned gauge-invariant version of the generalized quantum rigid rotor. We obtain different equivalent effective actions according to specific gauge-fixing choices, showing explicitly their BRST symmetries. We apply and exemplify the ideas discussed to two particular models, namely, motion along an elliptical path and the [Formula: see text] nonlinear sigma model, showing that our results reproduce and connect previously unrelated known gauge-invariant systems.
A COMPARISON OF MULTINOMIAL LIKELIHOOD AND CHI-SQUARE APPROACHES TO STATISTICAL POPULATION RECONSTRUCTION
Authors: BERG SERGEY S. , PALMER LAURA L.
Published: June 2021

Statistical population reconstruction using age-at-harvest and catch-effort data has recently emerged as a robust and versatile approach to estimating the demographic dynamics of harvested populations of wildlife. Although most reconstruction efforts employ the multinomial likelihood approach to identify which set of model parameters best describes the observed age-at-harvest and catch-effort data, using a [Formula: see text] objective function may provide a suitable alternative with a less steep learning curve. Using a harvested population of North American river otter (Lontra canadensis) in Kentucky as a case study, we investigated the performance of population reconstruction using multinomial likelihood and chi-square formulations. We simulated populations under a range of conditions and found that both the accuracy and precision of reconstruction estimates were similar under the two approaches. These results illustrate the potential benefits of using the [Formula: see text] approach, which may also allow agencies to incorporate auxiliary information from studies for which the corresponding likelihood contributions have yet to be developed.
Integration of Production Planning, Maintenance Scheduling and Noncentral Chi-square Chart Parameters with Random Failures and Multiple Assignable Causes
Authors: Salmasnia Ali , Emamjomeh Ehsan , Maleki Mohammad Reza
Published: June 2021

This study presents an integrated model of three dependent concepts including production planning, maintenance scheduling, and statistical process monitoring (SPM) in order to improve both economic and statistical features of the production systems. To bring the proposed model closer to real applications, the possibility of occurring several types of assignable causes during the production cycle is taken into account. Besides, a noncentral chi-square chart is used for simultaneous monitoring of the process mean and variability parameters. Moreover, it is assumed that both time-to-failure and time-to-shift are Weibull distributed random variables. In other words, the system may suddenly fail and goes to an out-of-control condition with two different increasing rates including the failure rate function and the shift occurrence rate function. Hence, to improve the system reliability, a nonuniform sampling scheme is developed in which a same integrated shift occurrence rate is obtained for all intervals. The goal of the model is to minimize the expected total cost per time unit, subject to some statistical constraints. Ultimately, three comparative studies are given to demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed model. The first one indicates that a nonuniform sampling scheme reduces the expected total cost and the length of out-of-control period. The second one confirms that considering the system failure not only increases the length of in-control period but also improves the economic feature of the production system. The third one shows that using chi-square chart decreases the quality loss cost which in turn decreases the expected total cost.
Small RNAs in Plant Immunity and Virulence of Filamentous Pathogens
Authors: Qiao Yongli , Xia Rui , Zhai Jixian , Hou Yingnan , Feng Li , Zhai Yi , Ma Wenbo
Published: June 2021

Gene silencing guided by small RNAs governs a broad range of cellular processes in eukaryotes. Small RNAs are important components of plant immunity because they contribute to pathogen-triggered transcription reprogramming and directly target pathogen RNAs. Recent research suggests that silencing of pathogen genes by plant small RNAs occurs not only during viral infection but also in nonviral pathogens through a process termed host-induced gene silencing, which involves trans-species small RNA trafficking. Similarly, small RNAs are also produced by eukaryotic pathogens and regulate virulence. This review summarizes the small RNA pathways in both plants and filamentous pathogens, including fungi and oomycetes, and discusses their role in host–pathogen interactions. We highlight secondarysmall interfering RNAs of plants as regulators of immune receptor gene expression and executors of host-induced gene silencing in invading pathogens. The current status and prospects of trans-species gene silencing at the host–pathogen interface are discussed.
High Yield and Packing Density Activated Carbon by One-Step Molecular Level Activation of Hydrophilic Pomelo Peel for Supercapacitors
Authors: Li Yisen , Sun Zishu , Zhang Lu , Zou Yongshun , Yao Niumeng , Lei Wen , Jiang Tingting , Chen Yao , Chen George Zheng
Published: June 2021

Highly hydrophilic pomelo peel is used as an activated carbon (AC) precursor so that KOH can be homogeneously absorbed within it. Subsequent cryodesiccation retains the original morphology of the pomelo peel and distribution of KOH, which provides the precondition of the one-step molecular level activation. The resulting AC has a high yield of 16.7% of the pomelo peel. The specific surface area of the AC prepared by the one-step molecular activation of cryodesiccated mixture of pomelo peel and KOH (CAC-1) is 1870 m2 g−1, which is higher than that of the AC by the one-step activation of oven-dried mixture (AC-1) and AC by the two-step calcination (AC-2). CAC-1 has the highest specific capacitance of 219 F g−1 at 1 A g−
1 among all the three samples. Importantly, the CAC-1 electrode has a high packing density of 0.63 g cm−3. The aqueous supercapacitor based on CAC-1 has a volumetric cell capacitance of 30.7 F cm−3, which corresponds to 123 F cm−3 for a single electrode. When the ionic liquid of 1-ethyl-3-methyl-imidazolium tetrafluoroborate is used as electrolyte, CAC-1 shows maximum specific energy of 40.5 Wh kg−1 and energy density of 25.5 Wh l−1.
High-contrast, moving targets in an emerging target paradigm promote fast visuomotor responses during visually guided reaching
Authors: Kozak Rebecca A. , Corneil Brian D.
Published: June 2021

How does the brain rapidly transform vision into action? Here, by recording upper limb muscle activity, we find that high-contrast and fast-moving targets are highly effective at evoking rapid visually guided reaches. We surmise that a brain stem circuit originating in the superior colliculus contributes to the most rapid reaching responses. When time is of the essence, cortical areas may serve to prime this circuit and elaborate subsequent phases of recruitment.
Cut-Through Fractured Seepage Properties and Numerical Simulation of Sandstone after Different Temperature Treatments
Authors: Jiang Haopeng , Jiang Annan
Published: June 2021

To explore the seepage characteristics of cut-through fractured rocks after different temperatures, sandstone in the Hunan area was selected as the research object. First, the influence degree of different temperatures on the permeability of fractured sandstone was studied, and the permeability variation of fractured sandstone with net confining pressure was revealed. The test data was nonlinearly fitted to prove that the relationship between permeability and net confining pressure conforms to the characteristics of the negative exponential function. Second, the macroscopic fractured state of sandstone after different temperature treatments was analyzed, and it is concluded that the inclination angle of the fracture surface decreases with the applied thermal temperature, the fracture surface gradually develops into a single shear failure surface, and the damage degree becomes more and more serious. Finally, the theoretical formula for the calculation of fractured seepage was introduced, and the FLAC3D embedded fish language was used to compile the seepage-stress coupling calculation program of the fractured sandstone after different temperature treatments. Numerical calculations were carried out based on samples with different fracture angles of fractured sandstone, and the calculated values were in good agreement with the test results. The research results can provide guiding significance for the research on the influence of high temperature in fire tunnel on the evolution of permeability of surrounding rock fissures.
The Effectiveness of the Bacteria Derived Extremolyte Ectoine for the Treatment of Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Bilstein Andreas , Werkhäuser Nina , Rybachuk Anna , Mösges Ralph
Published: June 2021

Nonpharmacological therapies with a good tolerability and safety profile are of interest to many patients with allergic rhinitis, as a relevant proportion of them have reservations about guideline‐concordant pharmacological therapies due to their local irritations and side effects. Ectoine is a bacterial‐derived extremolyte with an ability to protect proteins and biological membranes against damage caused by extreme conditions of salinity, drought, irradiation, pH, and temperature. Evidence from preclinical and clinical studies attests its effectiveness in the treatment of several inflammatory diseases, including allergic rhinitis. In this review, we analyzed 14 recent clinical trials investigating ectoine nasal spray in patients with allergic rhinitis and/or conjunctivitis, including sensitive patient groups like children or pregnant women. Some studies investigated monotherapy with ectoine; others investigated combination therapy of ectoine and an antihistamine or a corticosteroid. Analysis of the study results demonstrated that patients with mild‐to‐moderate symptoms of allergic rhinitis can be successfully treated with ectoine‐containing nasal spray. When applied as monotherapy, ectoine exerted noninferior effects compared to first‐line therapies such as antihistamines and cromoglicic acid. Using ectoine as an add‐on therapy to antihistamines or intranasal glucocorticosteroids accelerated symptom relief by days and improved the level of symptom relief. Importantly, concomitant treatment with ectoine was proven beneficial in a group of difficult‐to‐treat patients suffering from moderate‐to‐severe rhinitis symptoms. Taken together, the natural substance ectoine represents a viable alternative for allergic rhinitis and conjunctivitis patients who wish to avoid local reactions and side effects associated with pharmacological therapies.
Intelligent Content‐Centric Networking Routing Strategy: A Bacterial Quorum Inspired Pattern
Authors: Yang Hong , Guo Xiong , Zhang Chi , Li Mengliang
Published: June 2021

In recent years, the Content‐Centric Networking (CCN) has attracted much attention from the global Internet experts; in particular, it has demonstrated the outstanding effect on the application in the field of Internet of Things (IoT). At present, the routing technique of ICN is subjected to the dynamic change of network environment with the development of mobile Internet. Therefore, this paper proposes an Intelligent CCN routing strategy based on Bacterial Quorum pattern (ICBQ). The ICBQ tries to simulate the behaviors of bacteria, including quorum sensing and adaptive chemotaxis. Meanwhile, the quorum sensing can obtain the parameter information on bandwidth, delay, and error rate to facilitate the subsequent forwarding of packets. The adaptive chemotaxis can select the optimal interface to forward the packets through the information measurement. The simulation is driven based on the real Netflix dataset over the GTS network topology, and the experimental results show that the proposed ICBQ has better performance in terms of routing success rate, routing delay, load balance, and energy efficiency.
Cafeteria Diet-Induced Metabolic and Cardiovascular Changes in Rats: The Role of Piper nigrum Leaf Extract
Authors: L. E. Mballa Dorothee , Yadang Fanta S. A. , Tchamgoue Armelle D. , Mba Jean R. , Tchokouaha Lauve R. Y. , M. Biang Emmanuel , T. Tchinda Alembert , Djomeni Dzeufiet Désiré P. , Agbor Gabriel A.
Published: June 2021

Background. Cafeteria diet is known to induce excessive body fat accumulation (obesity) that could cause metabolic and cardiovascular changes and even death. The increase in prevalence over time and the failure in treatment options make obesity a real public health problem. The present study assessed the preventive effect of the hydro-ethanolic extract of the Piper nigrum leaf on the development of metabolic and cardiovascular changes in cafeteria diet fed Wistar rats. Methods. Thirty-six male rats were divided into 5 groups of 6 rats each: a normal control group (Nor.), a negative control group (Neg.), two groups administered different doses of extract in mg/kg (E250 and E500), and a group administered atorvastatin 10 mg/kg (Ator., reference drug). The animals were fed with experimental diets (standard and cafeteria) for a period of 5 weeks. Food and water intake were assessed daily, and the body weight assessed weekly. At the end of the feeding, plasma lipid profile and markers of hepatic and renal function were assessed. Furthermore, the relative weights of the adipose tissue and the organs were assessed. The liver, kidneys, and heart homogenates were assessed for markers of oxidative stress while the aorta was histopathologically examined. Results. Cafeteria diet-induced weight gain of 30% and increased triglyceride, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level of more than 50%. Equally, an increase in the relative weight of accumulated adipose tissues of more than 90%, oxidative stress, and alteration in the organ structure were visible in cafeteria diet fed rats (Neg). Treatment with P. nigrum extract significantly prevented weight gain, dyslipidemia, oxidative stress, and alteration in the architecture of the aorta. The effect of P. nigrum extract was comparable to that of the reference drug. Conclusion. Piper nigrum leaf may prevent weight gain and possess cardioprotective activity with a strong antioxidant activity.
Definitions of Frailty in Qualitative Research: A Qualitative Systematic Review
Authors: Lekan Deborah A. , Collins Susan K. , Hayajneh Audai A.
Published: June 2021

The purpose of this qualitative systematic review was to examine how frailty was conceptually and operationally defined for participant inclusion in qualitative research focused on the lived experience of frailty in community-living frail older adults. Search of six electronic databases, 1994–2019, yielded 25 studies. Data collection involved extracting the definition of frailty from the study aim, background, literature review, methods, and sampling strategy in each research study. Quality appraisal indicated that 13 studies (52%) demonstrated potential researcher bias based on insufficient information about participant recruitment, sampling, and relationship between the researcher and participant. Content analysis and concept mapping were applied for data synthesis. Although frailty was generally defined as a multidimensional, biopsychosocial construct with loss of resilience and vulnerability to adverse outcomes, most studies defined the study population based on older age and physical impairments derived from subjective assessment by the researcher, a healthcare professional, or a family member. However, 13 studies (52%) used objective or performance-based quantitative measures to classify participant frailty. There was no consistency across studies in standardized measures or objective assessment of frailty. Synthesis of the findings yielded four themes: Time, Vulnerability, Loss, and Relationships. The predominance of older age and physical limitations as defining characteristics of frailty raises questions about whether participants were frail, since many older adults at advanced age and with physical limitations are not frail. Lack of clear criteria to classify frailty and reliance on subjective assessment introduces the risk for bias, threatens the validity and interpretation of findings, and hinders transferability of findings to other contexts. Clear frailty inclusion and exclusion criteria and a standardized approach in the reporting of how frailty is conceptually and operationally defined in study abstracts and the methodology used is necessary to facilitate dissemination and development of metasynthesis studies that aggregate qualitative research findings that can be used to inform future research and applications in clinical practice to improve healthcare.
Analytical and Numerical Results on Global Dynamics of the Generalized Boussinesq Equation with Cubic Nonlinearity and External Excitation
Authors: Li Mingyuan , Zhang Wei , Wu Qiliang
Published: June 2021

This paper analytically and numerically presents global dynamics of the generalized Boussinesq equation (GBE) with cubic nonlinearity and harmonic excitation. The effect of the damping coefficient on the dynamical responses of the generalized Boussinesq equation is clearly revealed. Using the reductive perturbation method, an equivalent wave equation is then derived from the complex nonlinear equation of the GBE. The persistent homoclinic orbit for the perturbed equation is located through the first and second measurements, and the breaking of the homoclinic structure will generate chaos in a Smale horseshoe sense for the GBE. Numerical examples are used to test the validity of the theoretical prediction. Both theoretical prediction and numerical simulations demonstrate the homoclinic chaos for the GBE.
Dynamic Protective Effect of Chinese Herbal Prescription, Yiqi Jiedu Decoction, on Testis in Mice with Acute Radiation Injury
Authors: Wang Tian-Qi , Zhang Xin , Yang Jia
Published: June 2021

Objective. A Chinese herbal prescription, Yiqi Jiedu (YQJD) decoction, is used for injuries caused by radiotherapy. This study aimed to investigate the dynamic protective effects of YQJD decoction in mice on radiation damage at different time points of the testis. Methods. The 200 male Balb/c mice were randomly divided into 5 groups (blank, model, Anduolin, low-dose YQJD, and high-dose YQJD groups). Blank and model groups were all given stomach deionized water. Anduolin group and high and low dose of Chinese herb groups were treated with Chinese material medical decoction compound for 2 weeks before being irradiated. Except for the blank group, other groups were given whole-body one-time irradiation of 5.5 Gy 60Co gamma rays. Histopathology examination of testes was conducted on the 1st, 7th, 21st, and 35th day after irradiation, respectively. Indexes of sperm motility rate, sperm count, serum levels of testosterone (T), estradiol (E2), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH) were also measured correspondingly. Result. Compared to 1 day and 7 days after irradiation, most of the indexes, including testis index, sperm motility, and count, were decreased on the 21st and 35th day in all irradiated groups. However, compared with the model group, the indexes to assess sperm quality and the morphological structures of testis in low-dose and high-dose YQJD groups were significantly recovered on the 21st and 35th days. Additionally, reproductive hormones, including testosterone and estradiol, were recovered more in low-dose and high-dose YQJD groups on the 21st and 35th days. Conclusion. The YQJD decoction is able to accelerate the recovery of sperm indexes, testosterone, and estradiol levels of sex hormones in mice after irradiation and demonstrated good protective effects on the testis.
A Photoacoustic Imaging Algorithm Based on Regularized Smoothed L0 Norm Minimization
Authors: Liu Xueyan , Zhang Limei , Zhang Yining , Qiao Lishan
Published: June 2021

The recently emerging technique of sparse reconstruction has received much attention in the field of photoacoustic imaging (PAI). Compressed sensing (CS) has large potential in efficiently reconstructing high-quality PAI images with sparse sampling signal. In this article, we propose a CS-based error-tolerant regularized smooth L0 (ReSL0) algorithm for PAI image reconstruction, which has the same computational advantages as the SL0 algorithm while having a higher degree of immunity to inaccuracy caused by noise. In order to evaluate the performance of the ReSL0 algorithm, we reconstruct the simulated dataset obtained from three phantoms. In addition, a real experimental dataset from agar phantom is also used to verify the effectiveness of the ReSL0 algorithm. Compared to three L0 norm, L1 norm, and TV norm-based CS algorithms for signal recovery and image reconstruction, experiments demonstrated that the ReSL0 algorithm provides a good balance between the quality and efficiency of reconstructions. Furthermore, the PSNR of the reconstructed image calculated by the introduced method was better than the other three methods. In particular, it can notably improve reconstruction quality in the case of noisy measurement.
Some Identities of the Degenerate Multi-Poly-Bernoulli Polynomials of Complex Variable
Authors: Muhiuddin G. , Khan W. A. , Duran U. , Al-Kadi D.
Published: June 2021

In this paper, we introduce degenerate multi-poly-Bernoulli polynomials and derive some identities of these polynomials. We give some relationship between degenerate multi-poly-Bernoulli polynomials degenerate Whitney numbers and Stirling numbers of the first kind. Moreover, we define degenerate multi-poly-Bernoulli polynomials of complex variables, and then, we derive several properties and relations.
A Dual-Channel Sale System in Financially Constrained Supply Chain
Authors: Li Xin , Tao Zhang , Feng Nana
Published: June 2021

In order to realize the sustainable development of the communication industry, many banks have developed some new projects to provide loan to the mobile phone brand companies (MPBCs). This paper studies a perfect information game among three parties: telecom operator (TO), MPBC, and bank. In the first stage, the bank decides an interest rate and shows it to the TO and the competitive MPBC. In the second stage, the TO and MPBC are engaged in Cournot games: a simultaneous subgame, a TO-as-leader sequential subgame, and an MPBC-as-leader sequential subgame. The TO’s and the MPBC’s decisions and the production/sale quantities are investigated. The impacts of the interest rate and the substitute factor on the TO’s and the MPBC’s optimal decisions are analyzed. When the substitute factor is high, at a low interest rate, the total sales in the simultaneous subgame is higher than those in the other two subgames; at a high interest rate, the total sales in the MPBC-as-leader subgame is higher than those in the other two subgames. However, when the substitute factor is low, at a low enough interest rate, the total sales in the simultaneous subgame is higher than those in the other two subgames; at a high enough interest rate, the total sales in the MPBC-as-leader subgame is higher than those in the other two subgames; at a moderate interest rate, the total sales in the TO-as-leader subgame is higher than those in the other two subgames. Besides, the optimal interest rate of the bank is investigated and the impact of the substitute factor on the optimal interest rate is analyzed. The bank sets a higher interest rate in the MPBC-as-leader subgame than those in the other two subgames. Besides, when the substitute factor is low, the bank sets a lower interest rate in the TO-as-leader subgame than that in the simultaneous subgame; however, when the substitute factor is high, the bank sets a higher interest rate in the TO-as-leader subgame than that in the simultaneous subgame.
Influence of Timing on Surgical Outcomes for Acute Humeral Shaft Fractures
Authors: Furuhata Ryogo , Kamata Yusaku , Kono Aki , Kiyota Yasuhiro , Morioka Hideo
Published: June 2021

Surgical treatment for humeral shaft fractures has been reported to yield satisfactory results; however, there may be complications, such as delayed bone union, nonunion, iatrogenic radial nerve injury, and infection. The risk factors for postoperative complications remain largely unknown. This study aimed to investigate the influence of timing of surgery on the incidence of postoperative complications of acute humeral shaft fractures. We retrospectively reviewed 43 patients who underwent osteosynthesis for acute humeral shaft fractures between 2006 and 2020. The patients were divided into early (21 patients) and delayed (22 patients) treatment groups based on the timing of the surgical intervention (within or after four days). Outcomes were the incidences of complications (delayed union, nonunion, iatrogenic radial nerve injury, and infection) and postoperative fracture gaps. We evaluated the outcomes using plain radiographs and clinical notes. In addition, we performed subgroup analyses on outcomes in a subgroup of patients who underwent intramedullary nailing and one who underwent plate fixation. The frequency of delayed union was significantly higher in the delayed group (

P
=
0.046

), and the postoperative fracture gap size was also significantly greater in the delayed group (

P
=
0.007

). The subgroup analyses demonstrated a significant association between the increased incidence of delayed union and delayed surgical interventions only in the intramedullary nailing subgroup (

P
=
0.017

). This study suggests that performing surgery within four days after acute humeral shaft fracture is recommended to reduce the occurrence of delayed union, particularly in cases requiring intramedullary nailing fixation.
A Lane Extraction Algorithm Based on Fuzzy Set
Authors: Bai Yuxiu , Zheng Huanhuan , Zhou Jian , Zhou Dongmei
Published: June 2021

Lanes are difficult to be extracted completely. A lane extraction algorithm is proposed according to vehicle driving rules. Vehicles are moving constantly, so the foreground area and background area cannot be defined effectively in the image. Therefore, based on the theory of fuzzy set, multidimensional degree is used to judge the membership degree of target and foreground in order to extract the moving area accurately. Then, the logistic regression model is established to determine the moving vehicles. Finally, based on the vehicle track, the lane extraction is realized by regional growth. The results show that the proposed algorithm can extract the road effectively.
Preharvest Factors Affecting Quality on “Abate Fetel” Pears: Study of Superficial Scald with Multivariate Statistical Approach
Authors: Bonora Alessandro , Muzzi Enrico , Franceschini Cristiano , Boini Alexandra , Bortolotti Gianmarco , Bresilla Kushtrim , Perulli Giulio Demetrio , Venturi Melissa , Manfrini Luigi , Grappadelli Luca Corelli
Published: June 2021

Although superficial scald (SS) is well characterized on apples, there are only a few insights concerning the influence that agronomic and management variability may have on the occurrence of this physiological disorder on pears. In this study, we aimed to improve our understanding of the effect of different preharvest factors on SS development using a multivariate statistical approach. Pears (Pyrus communis L.) cv “Abate Fetel” were picked during two consecutive seasons (2018-2019 and 2019-2020) from twenty-three commercial orchards from three growing areas (Modena, Ferrara, and Ravenna provinces) in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy. Bioclimatic indices such as weather and soil, agronomic management such fertilization and irrigation, orchard features such as rootstock and training systems, and SS incidence were carried out at harvest and periodically postharvest in all producers. Two different storage scenarios (regular atmosphere and use of 1-MCP) were also evaluated. Our data in both seasons showed high heterogeneity between farms for SS symptoms after cold storage either in the regular atmosphere or with 1-MCP treatment. Nevertheless, in 2018, all the producers showed SS at the end of the storage season, but in 2019 some of them did not exhibit SS for up to 5 months. In fact, some preharvest factors changed considerably between the two seasons such as yield and weather conditions. Indeed, some factors seem to affect SS in both growing seasons. Some can increase its occurrences such as physiological and agronomical factors: high yields, late date of blooming, heavy downpours, improper irrigation management (low watering frequency and high volumes), nitrogen (included that deriving from organic matter), soil texture (presence of clay), orchard age, and canopy volume in relation to training system and rootstock. Others can decrease SS such as climatic and management factors: late harvest dates, rain, gibberellins, calcium, manure, absence of antihail nets or use of photoselective nets, and site (probably related to better soils toward the Adriatic coast). Initial preharvest variability is an important factor that modulates physiological plant stress and, subsequently, the SS after cold storage in “Abate Fetel” pears. Multivariate techniques could represent useful tools to identify reliable multiyear preharvest variables for SS control in pear fruit different batches.
Antibacterial Potency of Medicinal Plants including Artemisia annua and Oxalis corniculata against Multi‐Drug Resistance E. coil
Authors: Golbarg Hassan , Mehdipour Moghaddam Mohammad Javad
Published: June 2021

Antibacterial activity of ethanolic and aqueous extracts of two medicinal plants including Oxalis corniculata (EtOc, AqOc) and Artemisia annua (EtAa, AqAa) as well as A. annua essential oil (EoAa) was investigated on multi‐drug resistance (MDR) E. coli. Microdilution and agar well diffusion methods were used to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) as well as the inhibition zone. The phytconstituents of these products were analyzed using Reverse‐phase High‐ performance liquid chromatography (RP‐HPLC) and gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (GC‐mass). The order of bacteriostatic and bacteriocide rate of the products can be shown as follows: EoAa>AqOc>EtAa = AqAa>EtOc, but the bactericidal effect of A. annua extracts is higher than of O. corniculata based on the MIC/MBC ratio and the order is as follows: EoAa>EtAa = AqAa>EtOc>AqOc. The most potent product, i.e. EoAa with a 56.7% inhibition of all isolates, has the potential to substitute 13 used antibiotics including oxacillin, amoxicillin, ampicillin, amoxicillin‐clavulanic acid, tetracycline, streptomycin, ciprofloxacin, ceftriaxone, cefazolin, cefuroxime, cefotaxime, ceftazidime and cefixime (P <0.05). Different terpenoids were detected and measured in EoAa and catechin flavonoids in extracts of both plants, quercetin in extracts of O. corniculata but it was only possible to detect chlorogenic acid polyphenol in AqAa. Due to the antibacterial activities of the studied products, more effective than some antibiotics and their edible consumption, these products can be suggested as an alternative to some antibiotics and food preservatives to fight against MDR E. coli.