bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The accuracy of screening tools for sarcopenia in older Chinese adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Qian Siyu , Zhang Siqing , Lu Mengchen , Chen Shuhang , Liu Liyao , Liu Siqi , Jiang Fanglin , Zhang Jisheng
Published: February 2024

Objective

This review aimed to analyze and compare the accuracy of eight screening tools for sarcopenia in older Chinese adults according to different diagnostic criteria.

Methods

This systematic review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and Wanfang databases were searched between the publication of the first expert consensus on sarcopenia in 2010 and April 2023 using relevant MeSH terms. We evaluated the risk bias of the included studies using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies-2 (QUADAS-2) tool. The pooled result of sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio (PLR), negative likelihood ratio (NLR), diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), and plot the summary receiver operating characteristic curve (SROC) were calculated by using a bivariate random-effects model. The accuracies of sensitivity and specificity of the screening tools were compared using the Z-test.

Results

A total of 30 studies (23,193 participants) were included, except for calf circumference (CC), Ishii, and Finger-ring Test; Screening tools for sarcopenia in older Chinese adults have consistently shown low to moderate sensitivity and moderate to high specificity. Regional and sex differences affect the accuracy of the screening tools. In terms of sensitivity and specificity, the CC, Ishii, and Finger-ring Test were superior to the other screening tools.

Conclusion

The Asian Working Group on Sarcopenia (AWGS) 2019 criteria are more appropriate for the diagnosis of sarcopenia in older Chinese adults. According to the AWGS 2019, CC and Ishii are recommended for sarcopenia screening in older Chinese adults.
Associations of educational attainment with Sepsis mediated by metabolism traits and smoking: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Lan Ying , Chen Lvlin , Huang Chao , Wang Xiaoyan , Pu Peng
Published: February 2024

Objective

Sepsis constitutes a significant global healthcare burden. Studies suggest a correlation between educational attainment and the likelihood of developing sepsis. Our goal was to utilize Mendelian randomization (MR) in order to examine the causal connection between educational achievement (EA) and sepsis, while measuring the mediating impacts of adjustable variables.

Methods

We collected statistical data summarizing educational achievement (EA), mediators, and sepsis from genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Employing a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) approach, we calculated the causal impact of education on sepsis. Following this, we performed multivariable MR analyses to assess the mediation proportions of various mediators, including body mass index (BMI), smoking, omega-3 fatty acids, and apolipoprotein A-I(ApoA-I).

Results

Genetic prediction of 1-SD (4.2 years) increase in educational attainment (EA) was negatively correlated with sepsis risk (OR = 0.83, 95% CI 0.71 to 0.96). Among the four identified mediators, ranked proportionally, they including BMI (38.8%), smoking (36.5%), ApoA-I (6.3%) and omega-3 (3.7%). These findings remained robust across a variety of sensitivity analyses.

Conclusion

The findings of this study provided evidence for the potential preventive impact of EA on sepsis, which may be influenced by factors including and metabolic traits and smoking. Enhancing interventions targeting these factors may contribute to reducing the burden of sepsis.
Awareness about developmental coordination disorder
Authors: Steenbergen Bert , Valtr Ludvík , Dunford Carolyn , Prunty Melissa , Bekhuis Hidde , Temlali Taha Yassine , van Abswoude Femke , Lust Jessica M. , Warlop Griet , Augustijn Mireille , Smits-Engelsman Bouwien C. M. , Wilson Peter H.
Published: February 2024

The present paper is designed to promote awareness of DCD outside the academic world. With a prevalence of 5–6% it is one of the most common disorders of child development. It is therefore surprising that so little is known about it among professionals in child healthcare and education. Parents have expressed frustration about this lack of awareness, including the general public. The general aim of this paper was to describe those critical aspects of DCD that will promote awareness.
Soil depths and microhabitats shape soil and root-associated bacterial and archaeal communities more than crop rotation in wheat
Authors: Giongo Adriana , Arnhold Jessica , Grunwald Dennis , Smalla Kornelia , Braun-Kiewnick Andrea
Published: February 2024

The plethora of microorganisms inhabiting the immediate vicinity of healthy root systems plays a pivotal role in facilitating optimal nutrient and water acquisition by plants. In this study, we investigated the soil microbial communities associated with wheat roots within distinct microhabitats, root-affected soil (RA), rhizosphere (RH), and rhizoplane (RP). These microhabitats were explored at five soil depths, and our investigation focused on wheat cultivated in a monoculture (WM) and wheat crop rotation (WR). Overall, there were significant differences in microbiota composition between WM and WR, although no difference in bacterial diversity was observed. Differentially abundant taxa between WM and WR were observed in all three microhabitats, emphasizing important insights on the localization of commonly associated bacteria to wheat roots. Comparing the microhabitats, RP exhibited the most dissimilar microbial composition between WM and WR. Taxa that were differentially abundant between WM and WR were observed in the three microhabitats. The high relative abundance of taxa belonging to the phylum Proteobacteria in the rhizoplane, such as Devosia, Pseudomonas, Shinella, and Sphingomonas, along with other genera, such as Pedobacter (Bacteroidota), Agromyces and Streptomyces (Actinobacteriota) highlight the recruitment of potentially beneficial bacterial taxa to the vicinity of the roots. Interestingly, these taxa were observed along the entire length of wheat roots, even at depths of up to 120 cm. The presence of specific taxa associated with wheat roots at all soil depths may be beneficial for coping with nutrient and water shortages, particularly under upcoming climate scenarios, where water may be a limiting factor for plant growth. This study provides valuable insights for designing management strategies to promote a diverse and healthy microbial community in wheat cropping systems, considering soil depth and microhabitats as key factors. Although, at this time, we cannot link specific bacterial taxa to yield reductions commonly observed in monocultural fields, we propose that some genera may enhance plant nutrient or water acquisition in rotation compared with monoculture. Advanced technologies, including functional analyses and culturomics, may further enhance our understanding of the ecological roles played by these microbes and their potential applications in sustainable agriculture.
Active Edgewise Blade Damping Control of Large Wind Turbines by Using the Pitch Controller and an Interval Observer
Authors: Chamoli Suryans , Gambier Adrian
Published: February 2024

Large wind turbines have typically poorly damped structures. Hence, the absence of damping leads to aeroelastic oscillations, and the operational rotor speed can approach the critical rotor speed. By using damping injection, the control system can actively introduce some additional damping. In the present work, a control approach to reduce oscillations of the rotor blades in the edgewise direction is proposed. The concept is based on the damping injection mechanism, and an additional level of safety is obtained by introducing the Dynamic Safety Margin (DSM) in the control law. The feedback control scheme requires some unmeasurable variables. This aspect is covered by using an interval observer. The control approach is tested by using simulations on a high-definition model implemented in an aeroservoelastic code. Simulation results are very satisfactory and promising for future experiments using hardware-in-the-loop equipment.
The Relationship between Family Characteristics and Adolescent Perception of the Quality of Family Communication
Authors: Feric Martina
Published: February 2024

Many studies consider family communication to be one of the most important protective factors for the positive development of children and adolescents in the family environment. This paper aims to clarify whether some characteristics of the family environment influence the quality of family communication in order to provide guidelines for the planning of prevention strategies that effectively improve the quality of family communication and, thus, the positive development of adolescents. Specifically, the aim is to investigate whether there are gender- and age-related differences in the assessment of the quality of family communication and whether there are differences in the assessment of the quality of family communication depending on some family characteristics. High school students from five large Croatian cities (Zagreb, Osijek, Split, Pula, and Varazdin) took part in this study. The quota sample is stratified by three Croatian high school programs, as well as by individual program orientations within each school. The results show that there are differences in assessment of the quality of family communication in relation to gender, age, living with both or one parent, and the educational and working status of the parents. The data suggest that, in addition to the timely implementation of evidence-based parenting and/or family-based prevention interventions, there is a need to invest in high-quality social policies that could lead to a better quality of family life by increasing the chances of higher educational attainment for (future) parents as well as adequate employment opportunities.
Methods, Standards and Components for Wireless Communications and Power Transfer Aimed at Intra-Vehicular Applications of Launchers
Authors: Fusco Francesco , Castrillo Vittorio Ugo , Giannetta Hernan Maximiliano Roque , Albano Marta , Cavallini Enrico
Published: February 2024

In the world of space systems and launchers in particular, there is always a strong demand for the reduction of the weight of all components/subsystems that are not related to the payload and simplification of the integration phase. A possible solution to both these problems is the replacement of cables and connectors with wireless systems for communication and power supply. With this aim, a survey was carried out through an analysis of the technical/scientific literature available on wireless communication standards and electric power transfer methods. To evaluate wireless systems’ effective applicability, the existence of applicable standards and commercial components that could facilitate their implementation was also verified. To provide information on specific applications, a synthesis of experiences in the aeronautical and space fields of wireless system demonstrators was reported. Consequently, it is clear that there is interest in the subject, but some applications are still limited to the demonstration of systems or, at most, to non-critical functions. Since wireless power transfer methods need less energy from the sensor nodes, a brief investigation into the architectures and components necessary to implement low-power sensor nodes is also included in this study.
Design and Flight Test of a Tube-Launched Unmanned Aerial Vehicle
Authors: Finigian Michael , Kavounas Peter Apostolos , Ho Ian , Smith Conor Cian , Witusik Adam , Hopwood Andrew , Avent Camron , Ragasa Brandon , Roth Brian
Published: February 2024

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have already proven valuable for intelligence, search, and reconnaissance missions; however, their integration into manned aircraft to augment existing capabilities is still an emerging field. This paper describes the design of an aircraft that fits inside a G-sized sonobuoy canister, deploys from a manned aircraft in-flight, and flies for up to 111 km and 83 min while providing telemetry to a remote operator. While UAVs with similar performance requirements exist, most were designed to fit in larger canisters. Multiple UAVs can be deployed in the air to expand the search capabilities of manned aircraft, ultimately allowing a larger search area per cost compared to manned aircraft alone. Individual performance characteristics of the aircraft such as aerodynamics, weight, propulsion, and stability were developed in the preliminary design phase based on given performance requirements. The performance of the aircraft was assessed using analytical and empirical methods. Wing folding mechanisms were prototyped for use on the production aircraft for flight testing. Propulsion, aerodynamic, and structural capabilities were validated separately using experimental methods. The folding mechanisms used in this UAV allow it to achieve the benefits of a longer wingspan while remaining compact and easy to deploy.
Shape Morphing of 4D-Printed Polylactic Acid Structures under Thermal Stimuli: An Experimental and Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Kostopoulos Grigorios , Stamoulis Konstantinos , Lappas Vaios , Georgantzinos Stelios K.
Published: February 2024

This study explores the shape-morphing behavior of 4D-printed structures made from Polylactic Acid (PLA), a prominent bio-sourced shape-memory polymer. Focusing on the response of these structures to thermal stimuli, this research investigates how various printing parameters influence their morphing capabilities. The experimental approach integrates design and slicing, printing using fused deposition modeling (FDM), and a post-printing activation phase in a controlled laboratory environment. This process aims to replicate the external stimuli that induce shape morphing, highlighting the dynamic potential of 4D printing. Utilizing Taguchi’s Design of Experiments (DoE), this study examines the effects of printing speed, layer height, layer width, nozzle temperature, bed temperature, and activation temperature on the morphing behavior. The analysis includes precise measurements of deformation parameters, providing a comprehensive understanding of the morphing process. Regression models demonstrate strong correlations with observed data, suggesting their effectiveness in predicting responses based on control parameters. Additionally, finite element analysis (FEA) modeling successfully predicts the performance of these structures, validating its application as a design tool in 4D printing. This research contributes to the understanding of 4D printing dynamics and offers insights for optimizing printing processes to harness the full potential of shape-morphing materials. It sets a foundation for future research, particularly in exploring the relationship between printing parameters and the functional capabilities of 4D-printed structures.
Does Urbanization Affect the Carbon-Output Efficiency of Agriculture? Empirical Evidence from the Yellow River Basin
Authors: Song Xinyan , Wang Chengyue , Liu Wenxin
Published: February 2024

Purpose: Improving agricultural carbon-output efficiency is an important path to realize the “double carbon” goal in the Yellow River Basin. In the context of rapid urbanization development, it is significant to explore whether promoting urbanization will affect agricultural carbon-output efficiency. Methods: Based on panel data of 75 cities in the Yellow River Basin from 2000 to 2020, this paper uses the super-DEA model, three-dimensional kernel density model, and Markov chain model to measure and analyze the spatio-temporal evolution of agricultural carbon-output efficiency in the Yellow River Basin. The panel Tobit model is used on this basis to analyze the relationship between urbanization and carbon-output efficiency in agriculture. Results: The results show the following: (1) The level of agricultural carbon-output efficiency in the Yellow River Basin is low and has not reached an effective state, showing a slow downward trend in general where the agricultural carbon-output efficiency in the lower reaches is higher than that in the middle reaches, and the upper reaches has the lowest. (2) Agricultural carbon-output efficiency in the Yellow River Basin has a negative trend of transitioning to a low level overall and maintaining its original level, and it is difficult to realize the leapfrog transfer between states. Agricultural carbon-output efficiency has an obvious spatial spillover effect and “club convergence” phenomenon; the high-efficiency area has a positive driving effect on the neighborhood area, while the low-efficiency area has a negative impact on the neighborhood area. (3) The level of urbanization has a significant positive impact on the carbon-output efficiency of agriculture in the upper, middle, and lower reaches of the Yellow River Basin, which plays an important role in promoting the green development of agriculture.
Hedgerow Olive Orchards versus Traditional Olive Orchards: Impact on Selected Soil Chemical Properties
Authors: Rato-Nunes José , Telo-da-Gama José , Peña David , Loures Luís , Albaran Angel , Fernández-Rodríguez Damian , Vicente Luis , López-Piñeiro António
Published: February 2024

Olive orchards cover over 10 million hectares worldwide, with production techniques undergoing significant changes in the past three decades. The traditional rainfed approach, involving minimal inputs, has given way to irrigated super-intensive systems with higher planting density, increased productivity, a greater use of fertilizers and phytopharmaceuticals, and total mechanization. Its impact on soil chemical properties remains a topic of great debate, and no definitive consensus has been reached. Our main objective was to examine the different effects of traditional olive orchards and super-intensive orchards on soil chemistry over a decade. We collected and analyzed 1500 soil samples from an irrigation perimeter in southern Portugal in 2003 and 2013. Our findings indicate that, compared to traditional olive orchards, super-intensive ones show, in a decade, a significant decrease in soil organic matter (less 22.8%—p < 0.001), namely due to the increase in mineralization caused by an increase in soil moisture content as a result of irrigation practice, and an increase in sodization (more 33.8% of Ext Na—p < 0.001) highlighting the importance of monitoring this factor for soil fertility. In comparison to other irrigated crops in the region, super-intensive olive orchards promote a significant soil acidification (from 7.12 to 6.58), whereas the pH values of the other crops increase significantly (3.3%, 13.5%, and 3.0% more in corn, tomato, and cereals, respectively). Mainly because of the decrease in organic matter levels with soil acidification and soil sodization, we can underline that hedgerow olive orchards can affect soil characteristics negatively when compared with traditional ones, and it is necessary to adopt urgent measures to counter this fact, namely sustainable agriculture practices.
Apple Varieties Classification Using Deep Features and Machine Learning
Authors: Taner Alper , Mengstu Mahtem Teweldemedhin , Selvi Kemal Çağatay , Duran Hüseyin , Gür İbrahim , Ungureanu Nicoleta
Published: February 2024

Having the advantages of speed, suitability and high accuracy, computer vision has been effectively utilized as a non-destructive approach to automatically recognize and classify fruits and vegetables, to meet the increased demand for food quality-sensing devices. Primarily, this study focused on classifying apple varieties using machine learning techniques. Firstly, to discern how different convolutional neural network (CNN) architectures handle different apple varieties, transfer learning approaches, using popular seven CNN architectures (VGG16, VGG19, InceptionV3, MobileNet, Xception, ResNet150V2 and DenseNet201), were adopted, taking advantage of the pre-trained models, and it was found that DenseNet201 had the highest (97.48%) classification accuracy. Secondly, using the DenseNet201, deep features were extracted and traditional Machine Learning (ML) models: support vector machine (SVM), multi-layer perceptron (MLP), random forest classifier (RFC) and K-nearest neighbor (KNN) were trained. It was observed that the classification accuracies were significantly improved and the best classification performance of 98.28% was obtained using SVM algorithms. Finally, the effect of dimensionality reduction in classification performance, deep features, principal component analysis (PCA) and ML models was investigated. MLP achieved an accuracy of 99.77%, outperforming SVM (99.08%), RFC (99.54%) and KNN (91.63%). Based on the performance measurement values obtained, our study achieved success in classifying apple varieties. Further investigation is needed to broaden the scope and usability of this technique, for an increased number of varieties, by increasing the size of the training data and the number of apple varieties.
Study on Shifting Performance of Tractor Multi-Clutch under Different Engagement Rules
Authors: Zhang Jingyun , Liu Xiaohui , Wei Haijiang , Liu Mengnan , Huang Wenlong , Yan Xianghai
Published: February 2024

When shifting gears around a tractor’s power shift transmission, it is necessary to coordinate the control of multiple clutches and formulate a reasonable clutch engagement law to ensure the reliability and power of the power system. This paper explores the impact of different clutch engagement patterns on shifting characteristics in a power-shift tractor with multiple clutches. Shifting performance is comprehensively evaluated using indicators such as shifting time, impact degree, slip energies, and transmission output torque. The aim is to enhance the quality of power shifting, operational efficiency, and the service life of the transmission system. This paper takes the YTO TX4A transmission system as the research object, analyzes its working principle, and establishes a mathematical model of a power shift transmission system under different clutch engagement rules. This model of power shift transmission is established based on Matlab2021/Simulink and the AMESim2021 software platform. A simulation analysis is carried out for four clutches working simultaneously in a tractor’s advance gear II and lift gear III. The simulation results indicate that switching rule C is superior to switching rule A and switching rule B. Compared with the engagement scheme in which the torque exchange overlap time for both sets of clutches is 0.3 s, the scheme with a torque exchange overlap time of 0.15 s indicated a shifting time increase of 0.2 s, a slip energy increase of 4%, and a minimum output torque of the transmission increase of 2%. In the scheme with a torque exchange overlap time of 0 s, the shifting time increased by 0.15 s, the slip energy decreased by 13.5%, and the minimum output torque of the transmission decreased by 17%. Through the study of shifting performance under three different clutch engagement patterns, it is concluded that, during the shift from forward gear II to gear III in the YTO TX4A transmission system, appropriately reducing the torque exchange overlap time for both sets of clutches and avoiding simultaneous torque exchange can reduce the complexity of clutch control. This leads to smoother, more powerful, and more comfortable power shifting, effectively prolonging the service life of the transmission system.
Potential Effects of Garlic (Allium sativum L.) on the Performance, Immunity, Gut Health, Anti-Oxidant Status, Blood Parameters, and Intestinal Microbiota of Poultry: An Updated Comprehensive Review
Authors: Abd El-Ghany Wafaa A.
Published: February 2024

The use of antibiotics as growth promoters or for the prevention of some poultry diseases has faced global concern and serious criticism. Their addition to poultry feed has shown hazardous effects, including the development of antimicrobial resistance and a potentially harmful effect on human health. To eliminate these threats, there is increasing interest in natural alternatives. Plant derivatives such as garlic (Allium sativum L.) and its derivatives are presently extensively used in the poultry production system. The dietary supplementation of broilers and layers with garlic induced improvement in the production parameters, carcass quality, and intestinal integrity. The modulation of the immune response against some important viral diseases has resulted from the supplementation of poultry with garlic. Moreover, garlic has been shown to modulate gut health through antibacterial and antiparasitic activities. Treatment with garlic can also mitigate oxidative stress and reduce free-radical production. The reduction of cholesterol levels and improvement of some liver and blood parameters were also reported following the dietary inoculation of garlic. This review was designed to investigate the influence of garlic as a dietary additive on the performance, immunity, gut health, anti-oxidant status, blood parameters, and intestinal microbiota of poultry.
Effects of Dietary Tuber Ethanolic Extract of Nut Grass (Cyperus rotundus Linn.) on Growth, Immune Response, and Disease Resistance in Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)
Authors: Wigraiboon Supranee , Panchan Ruamruedee , Luang-In Vijitra , Ounjit Wilailak , Panase Paiboon , Sookying Sontaya , Sutthi Nantaporn
Published: February 2024

Nut grass (Cyperus rotundus Linn.) is a weed that grows in all tropical, subtropical and temperate regions of the world, including areas where it grows on saline soil. This research was conducted to evaluate the effect of C. rotundus tuber extract in the diet on the growth performance and disease resistance of Nile tilapia. Various components of phytochemical importance of nut grass, including sugars/carbohydrates, terpenoids, tannins, and flavonoids were found in C. rotundus. Tilapia (n = 25 fish/group in triplicate) were fed with different levels of nut grass extract including 0 (control; T1), 0.4 (T2), 0.8 (T3), and 1.6 (T4) g/kg for 60 days in a completely randomized design (CRD) experiment. After the feeding trial, the highest weight gain and average daily gain (ADG) were observed in the T4 group, but it was not significantly different from T3 (Nile tilapia fed with a 0.8 g/kg) (p > 0.05). The lowest feed conversion ratio (FCR) was observed in the T3 group. Moreover, the fillet, crud lipid content, and blood chemical profiles (aspartate aminotransferase (AST), cholesterol, and malondialdehyde (MDA)) in fish fed with 1.6 g/kg were highest when compared in all groups. In addition, the T3 group presented with the immune response parameter found in red blood cells (RBC), lysozyme activity, and antioxidant (superoxide dismutase activity (SOD)) being higher than those of the control group (p < 0.05). The highest survival (93.33%) was observed in fish fed with 0.8 g/kg (T3) after a 14 day challenge with Streptococcus agalactiae. Thus, it was concluded that nut grass extract at 0.8 g/kg can be used to improve the growth performance and the tendency for resistance to S. agalactiae in Nile tilapia.
Population and Conservation Status of Bighorn Sheep in the State of Baja California, Mexico
Authors: Romero-Figueroa Guillermo , Ruiz-Mondragón Enrique de Jesús , Shahriary Eahsan , Yee-Romero Carlos , Guevara-Carrizales Aldo Antonio , Paredes-Montesinos Rafael , Corrales-Sauceda Jesús Miguel , Guerrero-Cárdenas Israel , Valdez Raul
Published: February 2024

The bighorn sheep in Mexico is classified as at-risk by the Mexican federal government. In the state of Baja California, wild sheep can be observed throughout the length of the state from the USA–Mexico border south to the Agua de Soda mountain range. This research aimed to document the historical trend of the bighorn population based on aerial surveys conducted in 1992, 1995, 1999, 2010, and 2021, and the abundance, distribution, and structure of bighorn sheep populations in Baja California, based on an aerial survey conducted from 8–14 November 2021, covering thirteen mountain ranges. The estimated sheep population in 2021 was based on the number of individuals observed; the sightability of the animals; the area sampled; and the total area of habitat available. In 30.5 flight hours, 456 bighorn sheep were observed, with an estimated population of 1697 ± 80 individuals. The observation rate was 16 sheep sighted per hour of flight, and the ram:ewe:lamb ratio was 62:100:19. When the results of the 2021 flight were compared to the results of the previous aerial surveys, there was a large variation between the data, which was related to the lack of consistency between the sampling designs used in each study. Nevertheless, a statistical test of the results of aerial surveys conducted in the state suggest that the Baja California bighorn sheep population remained stable between 1992 and 2021. This study highlights the need to standardize wild sheep aerial surveys by defining flight paths and establishing a consistent duration of flights. On the other hand, Baja California authorities should consider modifying the current conservation strategy for bighorn sheep to increase the species’ population in the state by initiating community-based wildlife conservation programs in rural communities.
The Detection of Circulating Antigen Glutathione S-Transferase in Sheep Infected with Fasciola hepatica with Double-Antibody Sandwich Signal Amplification Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay
Authors: Duan Jiahui , Zhang Nan , Liu Shaoxiong , Li Jianhua , Gong Pengtao , Wang Xiaocen , Li Xin , Zhang Xu , Tang Bo , Zhang Xichen
Published: February 2024

Fasciolosis is a global zoonotic parasitic disease caused by F. hepatica infection that is particularly harmful to cattle and sheep. A biotin–streptavidin signal amplification ELISA (streptavidin-ELISA/SA-ELISA) based on circulating antigens can allow for the early detection of F. hepatica-infected animals and is suitable for batch detection. It is considered to be a better means of detecting F. hepatica infection than traditional detection methods. In this study, using the serum of sheep artificially infected with F. hepatica, the cDNA expression library of F. hepatica was screened, 17 immunodominant antigen genes of F. hepatica were obtained, and glutathione s-transferase (GST) was selected as the candidate detection antigen. Firstly, the GST cDNA sequence was amplified from F. hepatica, followed by the preparation of recombinant protein GST (rFhGST). Then, monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies against rFhGST were prepared using the GST protein. Afterward, the immunolocalization of the target protein in the worm was observed via confocal microscopy, and it was found that the GST protein was localized in the uterus, intestinal tract, and body surface of F. hepatica. Finally, a double-antibody sandwich SA-ELISA based on the detection of circulating antigens was established. There was no cross-reaction with positive sera infected with Dicrocoelium lanceatum (D. lanceatum), Haemonchus contortus (H. contortus), Neospora caninum (N. caninum), or Schistosoma japonicum (S. japonicum). Forty serum and fecal samples from the same batch of sheep in Nong’an County, Changchun City, Jilin Province, China were analyzed using the established detection method and fecal detection method. The positive rate of the SA-ELISA was 17.5%, and the positive rate of the fecal detection method was 15%. The detection results of this method were 100% consistent with commercial ELISA kits. A total of 152 sheep serum samples were tested in Nong’an County, Changchun City, Jilin Province, and the positive rate was 5.92%. This study laid the foundation for the development of serological detection preparations for F. hepatica infection based on the detection of circulating antigens.
Characterization of Two Gonadal Genes, zar1 and wt1b, in Hermaphroditic Fish Asian Seabass (Lates calcarifer)
Authors: Cui Han , Zhu Haoyu , Ban Wenzhuo , Li Yulin , Chen Ruyi , Li Lingli , Zhang Xiaoling , Chen Kaili , Xu Hongyan
Published: February 2024

Zygote arrest-1 (Zar1) and Wilms’ tumor 1 (Wt1) play an important role in oogenesis, with the latter also involved in testicular development and gender differentiation. Here, Lczar1 and Lcwt1b were identified in Asian seabass (Lates calcarifer), a hermaphrodite fish, as the valuable model for studying sex differentiation. The cloned cDNA fragments of Lczar1 were 1192 bp, encoding 336 amino acids, and contained a zinc-binding domain, while those of Lcwt1b cDNA were 1521 bp, encoding a peptide of 423 amino acids with a Zn finger domain belonging to Wt1b family. RT-qPCR analysis showed that Lczar1 mRNA was exclusively expressed in the ovary, while Lcwt1b mRNA was majorly expressed in the gonads in a higher amount in the testis than in the ovary. In situ hybridization results showed that Lczar1 mRNA was mainly concentrated in oogonia and oocytes at early stages in the ovary, but were undetectable in the testis. Lcwt1b mRNA was localized not only in gonadal somatic cells (the testis and ovary), but also in female and male germ cells in the early developmental stages, such as those of previtellogenic oocytes, spermatogonia, spermatocytes and spermatids. These results indicated that Lczar1 and Lcwt1b possibly play roles in gonadal development. Therefore, the findings of this study will provide a basis for clarifying the mechanism of Lczar1 and Lcwt1b in regulating germ cell development and the sex reversal of Asian seabass and even other hermaphroditic species.
High-Frequency Local Field Potential Oscillations for Pigeons in Effective Turning
Authors: Fang Ke , Guo Xiaofei , Tang Yezhong , Wang Wenbo , Wang Zhouyi , Dai Zhendong
Published: February 2024

Flexible turning behavior endows Homing Pigeons (Columba livia domestica) with high adaptability and intelligence in long-distance flight, foraging, hazard avoidance, and social interactions. The present study recorded the activity pattern of their local field potential (LFP) oscillations and explored the relationship between different bands of oscillations and turning behaviors in the formatio reticularis medialis mesencephali (FRM). The results showed that the C (13–60 Hz) and D (61–130 Hz) bands derived from FRM nuclei oscillated significantly in active turning, while the D and E (131–200 Hz) bands oscillated significantly in passive turning. Additionally, compared with lower-frequency stimulation (40 Hz and 60 Hz), 80 Hz stimulation can effectively activate the turning function of FRM nuclei. Electrical stimulation elicited stronger oscillations of neural activity, which strengthened the pigeons’ turning locomotion willingness, showing an enhanced neural activation effect. These findings suggest that different band oscillations play different roles in the turning behavior; in particular, higher-frequency oscillations (D and E bands) enhance the turning behavior. These findings will help us decode the complex relationship between bird brains and behaviors and are expected to facilitate the development of neuromodulation techniques for animal robotics.
The Effects of Housing on Growth, Immune Function and Antioxidant Status of Young Female Lambs in Cold Conditions
Authors: Xiao Jin , Guo Wenliang , Han Zhipeng , Xu Yuanqing , Xing Yuanyuan , Phillips Clive J. C. , Shi Binlin
Published: February 2024

Cold conditions in northern China during winter may reduce sheep growth and affect their health, especially if they are young, unless housing is provided. We allocated 45 two-month-old female lambs to be housed in an enclosed building, a polytunnel, or kept outdoors, for 28 days. The daily weight gain and scalp and ear skin temperature of outdoor lambs were less than those of lambs that were housed in either a house or polytunnel; however, rectal temperature was unaffected by treatment. There was a progressive change in blood composition over time, and by the end of the experiment, outdoor lambs had reduced total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) and increased malondialdehyde compared to those in the house or polytunnel. In relation to immune responses in the lambs’ serum, in the polytunnel, immunoglobulin A (IgA), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-4 (IL-4) were higher and immunoglobulin G (IgG) lower compared with the concentrations in lambs that were outdoors. Over the course of the experiment, genes expressing heat shock proteins and antioxidant enzymes increased in lambs in the outdoor treatment, whereas they decreased in lambs in the indoor treatments. It is concluded that although there were no treatment effects on core body temperature, the trends for progressive changes in blood composition and gene expression indicate that the outdoor lambs were not physiologically stable; hence, they should not be kept outdoors in these environmental conditions for long periods.
Porous Zinc Oxide and Plant Polyphenols as a Replacement for High-Dose Zinc Oxide on Growth Performance, Diarrhea Incidence, Intestinal Morphology and Microbial Diversity of Weaned Piglets
Authors: Ming Dongxu , Wang Jizhe , Yin Chenggang , Chen Yiqun , Li Yanpin , Sun Wenjuan , Pi Yu , Monteiro Alessandra , Li Xilong , Jiang Xianren
Published: February 2024

The aim of this experiment is to evaluate the effects of adding porous zinc oxide, plant polyphenols, and their combination to diets without antibiotics and high-dose zinc oxide on the growth performance, diarrhea incidence, intestinal morphology, and microbial diversity of weaned piglets. A total of 150 Duroc × Landrace × Large White weaned piglets were allocated to one of five diets in a randomized complete block design with six replicates and five piglets per replicate. The experimental period was 42 d, divided into two feeding stages: pre-starter (0–14 d) and starter (14–42 d). In the pre-starter stage, the negative control group (NC) was fed a basal diet, the positive control group (PC) was fed a basal diet with 2000 mg/kg of zinc oxide, the porous zinc oxide group (PZ) was fed a basal diet with 500 mg/kg of porous zinc oxide, the plant polyphenol group (PP) was fed a basal diet with 1500 mg/kg of plant polyphenols, and the combination group (PZ + PP) was fed a basal diet with 500 mg/kg of porous zinc oxide and 1500 mg/kg of plant polyphenols. In the starter stage, the NC, PC, and PZ groups were fed a basal diet, while the PP and PZ + PP groups were fed a basal diet with 1000 mg/kg of plant polyphenols. The results showed that, (1) compared with the PZ group, adding plant polyphenols to the diet showed a trend of increasing the ADFI of weaned piglets from 14 to 28 d (p = 0.099). From days 28 to 42 and days 0 to 42, porous zinc oxide and the combination of porous zinc oxide and plant polyphenols added to the control diet improved the FCR to the level observed in pigs fed the PC diet. (2) Dietary PZ + PP tended to increase the jejunal villus height (VH) of weaned piglets (p = 0.055), and significantly increased the villus-height-to-crypt-depth ratio compared to the NC group (p < 0.05). (3) Compared with the NC group, PZ supplementation decreased the relative abundance of Firmicutes and increased the relative abundance of Bacteroidetes, and the relative abundance of Lactobacillus in the PZ and PZ + PP groups were both increased. In conclusion, porous zinc oxide and plant polyphenols may have synergistic effects in modulating intestinal health in weaned piglets and be a potential alternative to high-dose zinc oxide.
The Prognostic Role of Diagnostic Criteria for COVID-19-Associated Pulmonary Aspergillosis: A Cross-Sectional Retrospective Study
Authors: Asperges Erika , Pesare Rebecca , Bassoli Cecilia , Calia Matteo , Lerta Sonia , Citiolo Francesco , Albi Giuseppe , Cavanna Caterina , Sacchi Paolo , Bruno Raffaele
Published: February 2024

Several criteria exist to diagnose pulmonary aspergillosis with varying degrees of certainty in specific populations, including oncohaematological patients (EORTC/MSG), ICU patients (mAspICU) and COVID-19 patients (ECMM). At the beginning of the pandemic, however, the diagnosis of COVID-19-Associated Pulmonary Aspergillosis (CAPA) could not be performed easily, and the decision to treat (DTT) was empirical. In this cross-sectional retrospective study including patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection and suspicion of CAPA, we studied the concordance between the DTT and the three diagnostic criteria using Cohen’s coefficient, and then we identified the factors associated with the DTT and corrected them by treatment to study the influence of the diagnostic criteria on survival. We showed good concordance of the DTT and mAspICU and ECMM criteria, with “compatible signs”, “positive culture” and “positive galactomannan” influencing the DTT. Treatment also showed a positive effect on survival once corrected for a putative, possible or probable diagnosis of CAPA using mAspICU and ECMM criteria. We conclude that EORTC/MSGERC are not considered applicable in clinical practice due to the lack of inclusion of signs and symptoms and do not lead to improved survival. mAspICU and ECMM criteria showed a good degree of agreement with the DTT and a positive correlation with patient recovery.
Clinical Effectiveness of Continuous Infusion Flucloxacillin in the Outpatient Parenteral Antimicrobial Therapy (OPAT) Setting in a UK Hospital: A Service Evaluation
Authors: Clarkson Annette Margaret , Snape Susan
Published: February 2024

The availability of stability data for the use of continuous intravenous flucloxacillin in an elastomeric device has enabled the treatment of serious Methicillin Sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) in the outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPAT) setting. This service review aimed to evaluate current standard of care to establish the clinical effectiveness and complication rates associated with its use since its introduction at our institution. A retrospective review of clinical outcomes and adverse events/complications, was undertaken for all patients who received continuous infusion flucloxacillin for complicated MSSA infection between January 2019 and July 2022 via our OPAT service. Thirty-nine patients were included. An OPAT treatment outcome of ‘Treatment aim attained uncomplicated’ was achieved in 29/39 (74%) patients. Two patients had an OPAT treatment outcome of treatment aim not attained, both of which required unexpected hospital re-admission. An adverse event/complication occurred in 8 patients. There were two relapses in the 12-month follow-up period. Our review supports the assertion that continuous infusion flucloxacillin is clinically effective and well tolerated for the treatment of complicated MSSA infection in the OPAT setting.
Novel Antimicrobial Approaches to Combat Bacterial Biofilms Associated with Urinary Tract Infections
Authors: Mancuso Giuseppe , Trinchera Marilena , Midiri Angelina , Zummo Sebastiana , Vitale Giulia , Biondo Carmelo
Published: February 2024

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are prevalent bacterial infections in both community and healthcare settings. They account for approximately 40% of all bacterial infections and require around 15% of all antibiotic prescriptions. Although antibiotics have traditionally been used to treat UTIs for several decades, the significant increase in antibiotic resistance in recent years has made many previously effective treatments ineffective. Biofilm on medical equipment in healthcare settings creates a reservoir of pathogens that can easily be transmitted to patients. Urinary catheter infections are frequently observed in hospitals and are caused by microbes that form a biofilm after a catheter is inserted into the bladder. Managing infections caused by biofilms is challenging due to the emergence of antibiotic resistance. Biofilms enable pathogens to evade the host’s innate immune defences, resulting in long-term persistence. The incidence of sepsis caused by UTIs that have spread to the bloodstream is increasing, and drug-resistant infections may be even more prevalent. While the availability of upcoming tests to identify the bacterial cause of infection and its resistance spectrum is critical, it alone will not solve the problem; innovative treatment approaches are also needed. This review analyses the main characteristics of biofilm formation and drug resistance in recurrent uropathogen-induced UTIs. The importance of innovative and alternative therapies for combatting biofilm-caused UTI is emphasised.
Redox Homeostasis and Nrf2-Regulated Mechanisms Are Relevant to Male Infertility
Authors: Signorini Cinzia , Saso Luciano , Ghareghomi Somayyeh , Telkoparan-Akillilar Pelin , Collodel Giulia , Moretti Elena
Published: February 2024

Infertility represents a significant global health challenge, affecting more than 12% of couples worldwide, and most cases of infertility are caused by male factors. Several pathological pathways are implicated in male infertility. The main mechanisms involved are driven by the loss of reduction–oxidation (redox) homeostasis and the resulting oxidative damage as well as the chronic inflammatory process. Increased or severe oxidative stress leads to sperm plasma membrane and DNA oxidative damage, dysregulated RNA processing, and telomere destruction. The signaling pathways of these molecular events are also regulated by Nuclear factor-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). The causes of male infertility, the role of oxidative stress in male infertility and the Keap1-Nrf2 antioxidant pathway are reviewed. This review highlights the regulatory role of Nrf2 in the balance between oxidants and antioxidants as relevant mechanisms to male fertility. Nrf2 is involved in the regulation of spermatogenesis and sperm quality. Establishing a link between Nrf2 signaling pathways and the regulation of male fertility provides the basis for molecular modulation of inflammatory processes, reactive oxygen species generation, and the antioxidant molecular network, including the Nrf2-regulated antioxidant response, to improve male reproductive outcomes.
The Activation of GABAAR Alleviated Cerebral Ischemic Injury via the Suppression of Oxidative Stress, Autophagy, and Apoptosis Pathways
Authors: Lan Jing , Wang Jiaqi , Wang Shujing , Wang Jia , Huang Sijuan , Wang Yazhou , Ma Yunfei
Published: February 2024

Ischemic stroke is a devastating disease leading to neurologic impairment. Compounding the issue is the very limited array of available interventions. The activation of a γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) type A receptor (GABAAR) has been reported to produce neuroprotective properties during cerebral ischemia, but its mechanism of action is not yet fully understood. Here, in a rat model of photochemically induced cerebral ischemia, we found that muscimol, a GABAAR agonist, modulated GABAergic signaling, ameliorated anxiety-like behaviors, and attenuated neuronal damage in rats suffering cerebral ischemia. Moreover, GABAAR activation improved brain antioxidant levels, reducing the accumulation of oxidative products, which was closely associated with the NO/NOS pathway. Notably, the inhibition of autophagy markedly relieved the neuronal insult caused by cerebral ischemia. We further established an oxygen–glucose deprivation (OGD)-induced PC12 cell injury model. Both in vivo and in vitro experiments demonstrated that GABAAR activation obviously suppressed autophagy by regulating the AMPK-mTOR pathway. Additionally, GABAAR activation inhibited apoptosis through inhibiting the Bax/Bcl-2 pathway. These data suggest that GABAAR activation exerts neuroprotective effects during cerebral ischemia through improving oxidative stress and inhibiting autophagy and apoptosis. Our findings indicate that GABAAR serves as a target for treating cerebral ischemia and highlight the GABAAR-mediated autophagy signaling pathway.