bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Soil Organic Carbon Sequestration under Long-Term Chemical and Manure Fertilization in a Cinnamon Soil, Northern China
Authors: Xiang Yun , Cheng Man , Wen Yongli , Darboux Frédéric
Published: April 2022

To mitigate climate change and improve food security, it is essential to understand how fertilizer strategies impact the dynamics of soil organic carbon and its fractions. The soil organic carbon (SOC), light fraction organic carbon (LFOC), and particulate organic carbon (POC) were investigated every five years in a corn (Zea mays L.) cropping system with chemical fertilization and manuring over twenty-four years (1992–2016) in a semiarid area of northern China. There were four treatments with chemical fertilizer (i.e., N1P1, N2P2, N3P3, N4P4), three treatments with chemical fertilizer plus manure (i.e., N2P1M1, N3P2M3, N4P2M2), and one treatment with manure alone (i.e., M6), and an unfertilized treatment (control). The carbon sequestration rate (CSR) and efficiency (CSE) of SOC, POC, and LFOC were identified. The results revealed that the fertilization treatments (N2P2, N3P3, N2P1M1, N3P2M3, N4P2M2, and M6) promoted SOC sequestration, with a sequestration rate of 0.19~1.29 Mg ha−1 y−1. The excess application of chemical fertilizer caused a reduction in POC, whereas the application of NP, NPM or manure resulted in greater POC sequestration in soil, with a carbon sequestration rate of 0.04~0.24 Mg ha−1 y−1. The LFOC stocks were 1.43~2.24 Mg ha−1 under the NP treatments, 2.47~6.68 Mg ha−1 under the NPM treatments and 8.12 Mg ha−1 under the M treatment; these stocks were all higher than that of the control treatment. Different fertilization strategies affected the pools of SOC with different sequestration rates. We found the carbon sequestration rates of SOC and LFOC were logarithmically correlated with the annual carbon input. When the annual C input is approximately 1.39 Mg ha−1 y−1, the SOC level will be maintained; when the annual C input is higher than 0.8 Mg ha−1 y−1, the LFOC level increases. This study describes the relationship between carbon inputs and the SOC(LFOC) sequestration rates under continuous fertilization in arid cropland. The results further evidence that the long-term fertilization of NPM and M increases the potential for SOC sequestration and quantifies the amount of exogenous carbon input required for soil organic matter enhancement.
Do Disability Inequalities Grow with Development? Evidence from 40 Countries
Authors: Lewis Emily , Mitra Sophie , Yap Jaclyn
Published: April 2022

With development, people around the world have become wealthier and live longer. At the same time, development can lead to growing inequalities within and between nations. This paper analyses inequalities related to disability and how they vary across countries by development level. Using internationally comparable data on disability inequalities in 40 countries, we assess disability inequalities through the use of regression analyses with a variety of development measures. Results support the hypothesis only partially: disability inequalities related to education, employment, and multidimensional poverty are found to be significantly larger in countries at higher levels of development. However, this is not the case for rates of access to water, sanitation, clean fuel, electricity, housing, and assets. These results, overall, hold when using different development and outcome indicators, and when focusing on specific subgroups of the population. The potential implications of these findings are discussed. Further research is needed to understand, for education and employment, the factors and processes that contribute to larger disability inequalities in countries at higher levels of development and what strategies might be pursued to reduce them.
Adapting Open Innovation Practices for the Creation of a Traceability System in a Meat-Producing Industry in Northwest Greece
Authors: Dima Agapi , Arvaniti Eleni , Stylios Chrysostomos , Kafetzopoulos Dimitrios , Skalkos Dimitris
Published: April 2022

Traceability is becoming an essential tool for both the industry and consumers to confirm the characteristics of food products, leading industries to implement traceability to their merchandise. In order for the Computer Technology Institute and Press “Diophantus” (CTI) to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) implement traceability systems based on open innovation, principles were introduced. This paper presents market research that was carried out in order to determine the significant concerns of the Greek consumers about pork meat and pork products, their opinion on traceability information, and their preferences regarding how they would like to receive this information. The survey was conducted online and took place from mid-February to mid-March 2021 on a sample of 224 participants. The market research showed a very high interest concerning traceability, especially on the expiry date of the meat (87.9%), while the way and conditions of transport of the meat products follow (79%). Furthermore, consumers showed that they believe that the quality and safety of pork products would be improved with traceability (70.1%) and (79%) would prefer to buy traceable compared with untraceable pork, signifying the importance of traceability for consumers. Additionally, it was found that consumers and SMEs have common concerns regarding traceability. The information gathered from this market research will be used to adapt the traceability system to consumers’ needs.
How to Sustain Quality Education in a Fully Online Environment: A Qualitative Study of Students’ Perceptions and Suggestions
Authors: Lo Chung-Kwan , Liu Ka-Yan
Published: April 2022

This study explored the learning experience of university students in Hong Kong, where remote online instruction was adopted to sustain student learning during the first 2 years of the COVID-19 pandemic. Based on student voices, this study aimed to improve online instruction. A qualitative case study approach was adopted, involving 12 university students from different subject disciplines and universities. Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted, followed by a series of qualitative data analysis procedures. The findings of this study suggested that our participants were generally satisfied with the way synchronous online lessons progressed, but that instructors’ technical problems were common. Furthermore, the students’ self-reported level of engagement tended to be negative due to, for example, lengthy lessons and poor group dynamics in virtual rooms. We also revealed the need for professional development opportunities for instructors to enhance their online teaching skills. Recommendations for improving online instruction are discussed, such as limiting online lessons to between 90 and 120 min, and allowing students to form their own groups, while helping shy students to join a group. This study thus has important implications for sustaining quality education in a fully online environment.
Perceptual Similarities among Wallpaper Group Exemplars
Authors: Kohler Peter J. , Vedak Shivam , Gilmore Rick O.
Published: April 2022

Symmetries are abundant within the visual environment, and many animals species are sensitive to visual symmetries. Wallpaper groups constitute a class of 17 regular textures that each contain a distinct combination of the four fundamental symmetries, translation, reflection, rotation and glide reflection, and together represent the complete set of possible symmetries in two-dimensional images. Wallpapers are visually compelling and elicit responses in visual brain areas that precisely capture the symmetry content of each group in humans and other primates. Here we ask to what extent different exemplars from the same wallpaper group are perceptually similar. We used an algorithm to produce a set of well-matched exemplars from 5 of the 17 wallpaper groups and instructed participants to freely sort the exemplars from each group into as many subsets as they wished based on any criteria they saw appropriate. P1, the simplest of the 17 groups, was consistently rated more self-similar than any other group, while the other four groups, although varying in symmetry content, were comparable in self-similarity. Our results suggest that except for the most extreme case (P1), perceived self-similarity of wallpaper groups is not directly tied to categories of symmetry based on group theory.
Generalized Type-2 Fuzzy Parameter Adaptation in the Marine Predator Algorithm for Fuzzy Controller Parameterization in Mobile Robots
Authors: Cuevas Felizardo , Castillo Oscar , Cortés-Antonio Prometeo
Published: April 2022

This article is oriented to the application of generalized type-2 fuzzy systems in the dynamic adjustment of the parameters of a recent metaheuristic based on nature that follows the rules of the best feeding strategies of predators and prey in ecosystems. This metaheuristic is called fuzzy marine predator algorithm (FMPA) and is presented as an improved variant of the original marine predator algorithm (MPA). The FMPA balances the degree of exploration and exploitation through its iterations according to the advancement of the predator. In the state of the art, it has been shown that type-2 fuzzy increases metaheuristic performance when adapting parameters, although there is also an increase in the execution time. The FMPA with generalized type-2 and interval type-2 parameter adaptations was applied to a group of benchmark functions introduced in the competition on evolutionary computation (CEC2017); the results show that generalized FMPA provides better solutions. A second case for FMPA is also presented, which is the optimal fuzzy control design, in the search for the optimal membership function parameters. A symmetrical distribution of these functions is assumed for reducing complexity in the search process for optimal parameters. Simulations were carried out considering different degrees of noise when analyzing the performance when simulating each of the used fuzzy methods.
A Method Based on Muon System to Monitor LHCb Luminosity
Authors: Albicocco Pietro , Baldini Wander , Belin Samuel , Bocci Valerio , Bondar Nikolay , Brundu Davide , Cadeddu Sandro , Cardini Alessandro , Carletti Maurizio , Chiodi Giacomo , Chubykin Alexsei , Chulikov Vladimir , Ciambrone Paolo , Congedo Liliana , Contu Andrea , Debernardis Francesco , Desideri Marco , De Serio Marilisa , De Simone Patrizia , Di Bari Daniele , Gatta Maurizio , Ilin Dmitrii , Kashchuk Anatoly , Kotriakhova Sofia , Lai Adriano , Litvinov Roman , Loi Angelo , Maev Oleg , Martellotti Giuseppe , Palutan Matteo , Pastore Alessandra , Pinci Davide , Saitta Biagio , Santacesaria Roberta , Santimaria Marco , Santovetti Emanuele , Saputi Alessandro , Satriano Celestina , Satta Alessia , Sciascia Barbara , Simone Saverio , Vecchi Stefania
Published: April 2022

LHCb is one of the four main experiments running at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) of the European Organization for Nuclear Research. Since 2010, it has been collecting data to study the Physics of b and c quarks. For the past three years, the experimental apparatus underwent significant upgrades to be ready for a new round of data collection, expected to start in June 2022. The new apparatus is designed to be able to run at an instantaneous luminosity five times larger than the previous one, which was 2.0×1032 cm−2s−1, and the whole detector readout will be at a 40 MHz rate. It is worth noticing that the luminosity at the LHCb interaction point, for the characteristics of the detector, needs to be reduced with respect to the luminosity provided by LHC. Major changes in the different subdetectors were required, along with complete modifications of the trigger schemes. The LHCb collaboration is developing and studying different methods for the on-line measurement of luminosity at the LHCb impact point, crucial for the monitoring of correct machine operation and for most experimental physics studies. The present work describes a procedure based on hit counting in the muon detector for an on-line luminosity monitor. The performance and the precision achieved with this method in tests carried out on past data collected are presented, together with proposals for future upgrades.
Lie Symmetries and Conservation Laws for the Viscous Cahn-Hilliard Equation
Authors: Márquez Almudena P. , Recio Elena , Gandarias María L.
Published: April 2022

In this paper, we study a viscous Cahn–Hilliard equation from the point of view of Lie symmetries in partial differential equations. The analysis of this equation is motivated by its applications since it serves as a model for many problems in physical chemistry, developmental biology, and population movement. Firstly, a classification of the Lie symmetries admitted by the equation is presented. In addition, the symmetry transformation groups are calculated. Afterwards, the partial differential equation is transformed into ordinary differential equations through symmetry reductions. Secondly, all low-order local conservation laws are obtained by using the multiplier method. Furthermore, we use these conservation laws to determine their associated potential systems and we use them to investigate nonlocal symmetries and nonlocal conservation laws. Finally, we apply the multi-reduction method to reduce the equation and find a soliton solution.
Solutions to Three-Phase-Field Model for Solidification
Authors: Tang Yangxin , Gao Wei
Published: April 2022

Our research on applied mathematics is in line with the research scope of the journal. The phase-field model is applied to simulate the material and other areas. A phase-field model describing the non-isothermal solidification of an ideal multi-component alloy system is proposed in this paper. The time and space variation of a three-phase-field function and the governing equations of the temperature field are established. The global existence of weak solutions for three-dimensional parabolic differential equations is proved by the Faedo–Galerkin method. The existence of a maximum theorem is also extensively studied.
An Optimized Neural Network Acoustic Model for Porous Hemp Plastic Composite Sound-Absorbing Board
Authors: Wang Haizhen , Zhao Hong , Lian Zuozheng , Tan Bin , Zheng Yongjie , E Erdun
Published: April 2022

Current acoustic modeling methods face problems such as complex processes or inaccurate sound absorption coefficients, etc. Therefore, this paper studies the topic. Firstly, the material samples were prepared, and standing wave tube method experiments were conducted. Material acoustic data were obtained, while a model using improved genetic algorithm and neural network was subsequently proposed. Secondly, the acoustic data obtained from the experiment were analyzed; a neural network structure was designed; and the training, verification, and test data were all divided. In order to facilitate data processing, a symmetrical method was used to inversely normalize all the data. Thirdly, by the design of real coding scheme, fitness function, crossover, and mutation operators, an improved genetic algorithm was proposed to obtain the optimal solution, as the initial weight and threshold, which were then input into the neural network along with the training and verification data. Finally, the test data were input into the trained neural network in order to test the model. The test results and statistical analysis showed that compared with other algorithms, the proposed model has the lower root mean squared error (RMSE) value, the maximum coefficient of determination (R2) value, and shorter convergence time.
Topological Data Analysis with Cubic Hesitant Fuzzy TOPSIS Approach
Authors: Riaz Muhammad , Batool Sania , Almalki Yahya , Ahmad Daud
Published: April 2022

A hesitant fuzzy set (HFS) and a cubic set (CS) are two independent approaches to deal with hesitancy and vagueness simultaneously. An HFS assigns an essential hesitant grade to each object in the universe, whereas a CS deals with uncertain information in terms of fuzzy sets as well as interval-valued fuzzy sets. A cubic hesitant fuzzy set (CHFS) is a new computational intelligence approach that combines CS and HFS. The primary objective of this paper is to define topological structure of CHFSs under P(R)-order as well as to develop a new topological data analysis technique. For these objectives, we propose the concept of “cubic hesitant fuzzy topology (CHF topology)”, which is based on CHFSs with both P(R)-order. The idea of CHF points gives rise to the study of several properties of CHF topology, such as CHF closure, CHF exterior, CHF interior, CHF frontier, etc. We also define the notion of CHF subspace and CHF base in CHF topology and related results. We proposed two algorithms for extended cubic hesitant fuzzy TOPSIS and CHF topology method, respectively. The symmetry of optimal decision is analyzed by computations with both algorithms. A numerical analysis is illustrated to discuss similar medical diagnoses. We also discuss a case study of heart failure diagnosis based on CHF information and the modified TOPSIS approach.
Study on Error Separation of Three-Probe Method
Authors: Zhong Chengbao , Zhuo Ming , Cui Zhong , Geng Jiqing
Published: April 2022

With the advantage of in situ measurement, the three-probe method is commonly used to measure either the error motion of high-precision spindles or the roundness error of artifacts. The roundness error of artifacts or spindle errors can be obtained through solving error-separation equations. Both the time- and frequency-domain solutions of the three-probe method are presented. In addition, the key points of solutions, i.e., the rounding error induced by inconsistency of sampling points, harmonic suppression, and averaging schemes of multiple revolutions into one circle, are described in detail. Experiments were conducted to compare the two solutions and quantify the influence of setup parameters, including rotational speed probe arrangement, consistency of sampling points, and number of revolutions. The results showed that the roundness error of the time-domain solution was inaccurate due to large rounding errors, while that of the frequency-domain solution with the previous average scheme was accurate. In contrast, the spindle error of the frequency-domain solution with the latter average scheme was more reliable. The findings provided a reference to recommend setup parameters depending on the aim of the three-probe method.
Josephson-like Oscillations in Toroidal Spinor Bose–Einstein Condensates: A Prospective Symmetry Probe
Authors: Donato Mário H. Figlioli , Muniz Sérgio R.
Published: April 2022

Josephson junctions are essential ingredients in the superconducting circuits used in many existing quantum technologies. Additionally, ultracold atomic quantum gases have also become essential platforms to study superfluidity. Here, we explore the analogy between superconductivity and superfluidity to present an intriguing effect caused by a thin finite barrier in a quasi-one-dimensional toroidal spinor Bose–Einstein condensate (BEC). In this system, the atomic current density flowing through the edges of the barrier oscillates, such as the electrical current through a Josephson junction in a superconductor, but in our case, there is no current circulation through the barrier. We also show how the nontrivial broken-symmetry states of spinor BECs change the structure of this Josephson-like current, creating the possibility to probe the spinor symmetry, solely using measurements of this superfluid current.
Unified Integrals of Generalized Mittag–Leffler Functions and Their Graphical Numerical Investigation
Authors: Khan Nabiullah , Khan Mohammad Iqbal , Usman Talha , Nonlaopon Kamsing , Al-Omari Shrideh
Published: April 2022

In this article, we obtain certain finite integrals concerning generalized Mittag–Leffler functions, which are evaluated in terms of the generalized Fox–Wright function. The integrals of concern are unified in nature and thereby yield some new integral formulas as special cases. Moreover, we numerically compute some integrals using the Gaussian quadrature formula and draw a comparison with the main integrals by using graphical numerical investigation.
Bstick: Handheld Virtual Reality Haptic Controller for Hand Rehabilitation
Authors: Ko Ginam , Nam SangHun
Published: April 2022

This study proposes Bstick, the first handheld-type haptic controller that can monitor and control the placement of five fingers in real-time using linear motors attached on the fingers. As a handheld device, it can be used with both hands, and it was designed and produced to allow it to be freely moved and used with other virtual reality (VR) devices via Bluetooth. Bstick also provides stiffness that can maintain the pressing forces of an adult man’s fingers, providing a realistic sense of grabbing and controlling a virtual object with rigidity and softness. By changing the location of the finger buttons, the device can render virtual objects of various shapes and sizes. A component that can be implemented in the Unity game engine was developed to provide convenience in the content development, using a haptic controller feature where a user can move five fingers independently, and this was applied for hand rehabilitation contents. Bstick includes five linear motors that can sustain approximately 22 N of force per finger, and the hardware and circuitry are compact, so as to be held in the user’s hand. Bstick can be used to create VR services and contents based on five-fingered force feedback using a haptic controller that can independently manage the motions of five fingers, and Unity game engine software that can modify hardware.
Typha lepechinii Mavrodiev et Kapit. sp. nov. (Typhaceae Juss.)—A New Endangered Endemic Cattail in the Outmost East of European Russia
Authors: Kapitonova Olga A. , Muldashev Albert A. , Platunova Guzel R. , Mavrodiev Evgeny V.
Published: April 2022

Typha lepechinii, a new species from European Russia, is described. In terms of the external morphology, it is similar to T. shuttleworthii but differs from the latter by the shape of female inflorescence, wider leaf blades and geographical distribution. Like T. shuttleworthii, T. lepechinii is clearly distinct from all other cattails of T. sect. Ebracteolatae due to its short male inflorescence that is 2–4 times shorter than the contiguous female inflorescence. The spatial disjunction of this new species from the main distribution range of predominantly European T. shuttleworthii is significant: T. lepechinii is an endemic of the outmost East of the Russian Plain, in particular, the regions of Middle and Southern Cis-Ural region (basin of the Middle and Lower Kama). In terms of the political administrative borders, this new cattail was found in the Udmurt Republic, the Republics of Tatarstan and Bashkortostan, the parts of the Russian Federation. From the elementary comparative molecular standpoint, T. lepechinii is different from its sister T. shuttleworthii due to four single nucleotide positions and two indels of the rpl32 gene and rpl32-trnL intergenic spacer (cpDNA). The new cattail is named after I. I. Lepechin (1737–1802)—a Russian scientist-encyclopedist whose primary botanical interest focused on the regions of Ural and Siberia.
Reliable Ultrasonic Obstacle Recognition for Outdoor Blind Navigation
Authors: Meliones Apostolos , Filios Costas , Llorente Jairo
Published: April 2022

A reliable state-of-the-art obstacle detection algorithm is proposed for a mobile application that will analyze in real time the data received by an external sonar device and decide the need to audibly warn the blind person about near field obstacles. The proposed algorithm can equip an orientation and navigation device that allows the blind person to walk safely autonomously outdoors. The smartphone application and the microelectronic external device will serve as a wearable that will help the safe outdoor navigation and guidance of blind people. The external device will collect information using an ultrasonic sensor and a GPS module. Its main objective is to detect the existence of obstacles in the path of the user and to provide information, through oral instructions, about the distance at which it is located, its size and its potential motion and to advise how it could be avoided. Subsequently, the blind can feel more confident, detecting obstacles via hearing before sensing them with the walking cane, including hazardous obstacles that cannot be sensed at the ground level. Besides presenting the micro-servo-motor ultrasonic obstacle detection algorithm, the paper also presents the external microelectronic device integrating the sonar module, the impulse noise filtering implementation, the power budget of the sonar module and the system evaluation. The presented work is an integral part of a state-of-the-art outdoor blind navigation smartphone application implemented in the MANTO project.
Time Sensitive Networking Protocol Implementation for Linux End Equipment
Authors: Lázaro Jesús , Cabrejas Jimena , Zuloaga Aitzol , Muguira Leire , Jiménez Jaime
Published: April 2022

By bringing industrial-grade robustness and reliability to Ethernet, Time Sensitive Networking (TSN) offers an IEEE standard communication technology that enables interoperability between standard-conformant industrial devices from any vendor. It also eliminates the need for physical separation of critical and non-critical communication networks, which allows a direct exchange of data between operation centers and companies, a concept at the heart of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). This article describes creating an end-to-end TSN network using specialized PCI Express (PCIe) cards and two final Linux endpoints. For this purpose, the two primary standards of TSN, IEEE 802.1AS (regarding clock synchronization), and IEEE 802.1Qbv (regarding time scheduled traffic) have been implemented in Linux equipment as well as a configuration and monitoring system.
Predictors of Metastatic Lymph Nodes at Preoperative Staging CT in Gastric Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Crimì Filippo , Bao Quoc Riccardo , Mari Valentina , Zanon Chiara , Cabrelle Giulio , Spolverato Gaya , Pucciarelli Salvatore , Quaia Emilio
Published: April 2022

Background. The aim of this study was to identify the most accurate computed-tomography (CT) dimensional criteria of loco-regional lymph nodes (LNs) for detecting nodal metastases in gastric cancer (GC) patients. Methods. Staging CTs of surgically resected GC were jointly reviewed by two radiologists, considering only loco-regional LNs with a long axis (LA) ≥ 5 mm. For each nodal group, the short axis (SA), volume and SA/LA ratio of the largest LN, the sum of the SAs of all LNs, and the mean of the SA/LA ratios were plotted in ROC curves, taking the presence/absence of metastases at histopathology for reference. On a per-patient basis, the sums of the SAs of all LNs, and the sums of the SAs, volumes, and SA/LA ratios of the largest LNs in all nodal groups were also plotted, taking the presence/absence of metastatic LNs in each patient for reference. Results. Four hundred and forty-three nodal groups were harvested during surgery from 107 patients with GC, and 173 (39.1%) were metastatic at histopathology. By nodal group, the sum of the SAs showed the best Area Under the Curve (AUC), with a sensitivity/specificity of 62.4/72.6% using Youden’s index with a >8 mm cutoff. In the per-patient analysis, the sum of the SAs of all LNs in the loco-regional nodal groups showed the best AUC with a sensitivity/specificity of 65.6%/83.7%, using Youden’s index with a >39 mm cutoff. Conclusion. In patients with GC, the sum of the SAs of all the LNs at staging CT is the best predictor among dimensional LNs criteria of both metastatic invasion of the nodal group and the presence of metastatic LNs.
Suicide by Pesticide (Phorate) Ingestion: Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Simonelli Angela , Carfora Anna , Basilicata Pascale , Liguori Bruno , Mascolo Pasquale , Policino Fabio , Niola Massimo , Campobasso Carlo Pietro
Published: April 2022

It has been estimated that approximately one in seven of all global suicides is due to pesticide self-poisoning, mostly in rural areas of developing countries. Organophosphorus (OP) compounds are a group of pesticides exerting their toxicological effects through non-reversible inhibition of the enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE). Among these compounds, phorate (thimet) is one of the most dangerous compounds, the use of which is restricted in many countries. A case of intentional suicide after phorate ingestion in a 24-year-old Bengali male is described. This is the second case of suicidal ingestion of phorate reported in the forensic literature, and the first presenting complete toxicological findings.
Metagenomic Analysis of the Gastrointestinal Microbiota of Gadus morhua callarias L. Originating from a Chemical Munition Dump Site
Authors: Wilczynski Wojciech , Radlinska Monika , Wysujack Klaus , Czub Michał , Brzeziński Tomasz , Kowalczyk Grzegorz , Bełdowski Jacek , Nogueira Pedro , Maszczyk Piotr
Published: April 2022

Several hundred thousand tonnes of munitions containing chemical warfare agents (CWAs) are lying on the seafloor worldwide. CWAs have started leaking from corroded munitions, and their presence in the environment and in organisms inhabiting dump sites has been detected. The presence of CWAs in the water negatively affects fish, macrobenthos and free-living bacteria. It can be expected that the presence of CWAs would also affect the gut-associated bacteria in fish, which are vital for their condition. The main aim of this study was to test if the microbiota of cod collected in the Baltic Bornholm Deep (highly polluted with CWAs) is dysregulated. To investigate this, we conducted metagenomic studies based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing. We found that the microbiota of cod inhabiting the dump site was significantly less taxonomically diverse compared to those from a non-polluted reference site. Moreover, taxa associated with fish diseases (e.g., Vibrionaceae, Aeromonadaceae) were more prevalent, and probiotic taxa (e.g., Actinobacteriota, Rhodobacteraceae) were less frequent in the guts of individuals from the dump site, than those from the reference site. The differences in vulnerability of various bacterial taxa inhabiting cod gastrointestinal tracts to CWAs were hypothesised to be responsible for the observed microbiota dysregulation.
Bisphenol A Coupled with a High-Fat Diet Promotes Hepatosteatosis through Reactive-Oxygen-Species-Induced CD36 Overexpression
Authors: Lee Jyun-Lin , Wang Yao-Chien , Hsu Yu-An , Chen Chih-Sheng , Weng Rui-Cian , Lu Yen-Pei , Chuang Chun-Yu , Wan Lei
Published: April 2022

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an endocrine-disrupting chemical that affects lipid metabolism and contributes to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The mechanism of BPA exposure in hepatic lipid accumulation and its potential effect on NAFLD remain unclear. This study investigated the effect of BPA-exposure-induced hepatic lipid deposition on the pathology of NAFLD and its underlying mechanism in vitro and in vivo. BPA increased intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, and promoted fatty acid uptake through upregulation of a free fatty acid uptake transporter, cluster of differentiation 36 (CD36), in HUH-7 cells. Additionally, C57BL/6 mice administered a high-fat/high-cholesterol/high-cholic acid diet (HFCCD) and BPA (50 mg/kg body weight) for 8 weeks developed a steatohepatitis-like phenotype, characterized by alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA, an indicator of hepatic fibrosis) and cleaved caspase 3 (an indicator of apoptosis) in hepatic tissue; moreover, they had a higher oxidative stress index of 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) in liver tissue compared to the control group. Treatment with ROS scavenger n-acetylcysteine (NAC) ameliorated BPA-mediated HFCCD-induced lipid accumulation and steatohepatitis in the livers of treated mice. Our study indicates that BPA acts synergistically to increase hepatic lipid uptake and promote NAFLD development by stimulating ROS-induced CD36 overexpression.
Developmental, Behavioral and Transcriptomic Changes in Zebrafish Embryos after Smoke Dye Exposure
Authors: Perkins Edward J. , To Kimberly T. , St. Mary Lindsey , Laber Charles H. , Bednar Anthony J. , Truong Lisa , Tanguay Robyn L. , Garcia-Reyero Natàlia
Published: April 2022

(1) Background: Disperse Blue 14, Disperse Red 9, Solvent Red 169 and Solvent Yellow 33 have been used to color smoke; however, they have not been comprehensively assessed for their potential health hazards. (2) Methods: To assess the effects of these dyes, zebrafish embryos were exposed from 6 to 120 h post fertilization (hpf) to 10–55 µM Disperse Red 9, 1–50 µM Solvent Red 169, 7.5–13.5 µM Solvent Yellow 33 or 133–314 µM Disperse Blue 14. Embryos were monitored for adverse effects on gene expression at 48 hpf as well as for mortality, development and behavior at 120 hpf. The dyes were examined for their potential to cross the blood–brain barrier. (3) Results: Solvent Yellow 33 and Disperse Blue 14 impaired development and behavior at all concentrations. Disperse Red 9 impaired behavior at all concentrations and development at all concentrations except for 10 µM. Solvent Red 169 caused no effects. Mortality was only seen in Disperse Blue 14 at 261.5 and 314 µM. Gene expression indicated impacts on neurodevelopment and folate and retinol metabolism as potential mechanisms of toxicity. (4) Conclusions: Smoke dyes have a high potential for causing developmental changes and neurotoxicity and should be examined more closely using comprehensive approaches as used here.
Toxicity Effects of Combined Mixtures of BDE-47 and Nickel on the Microalgae Phaeodactylum tricornutum (Bacillariophyceae)
Authors: Shi Xiaolai , Guo Ruoyu , Lu Douding , Wang Pengbin , Dai Xinfeng
Published: April 2022

Nickel and 2,2’,4,4’-tetrabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-47) are two environmental pollutants commonly and simultaneously present in aquatic systems. Nickel and BDE-47 are individually toxic to various aquatic organisms. However, their toxicity mechanisms are species-dependent, and the toxic effects of combined mixtures of BDE-47 and nickel have not yet been investigated. The present study investigated the toxic effects of combined mixtures of BDE-47 and nickel in the diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum. BDE-47 and nickel mixtures significantly decreased cell abundance and photosynthetic efficiency, while these cells’ reactive oxygen species (ROS) production significantly increased. The EC50-72 h for BDE-47 and mixtures of BDE-47 and nickel were 16.46 ± 0.93 and 1.35 ± 0.06 mg/L, respectively. Thus, combined mixtures of the two pollutants enhance their toxic effects. Interactions between BDE-47 and nickel were evaluated, revealing synergistic interactions that contributed to toxicity in P. tricornutum. Moreover, transcriptomic analyses revealed photosynthesis, nitrogen metabolism, the biosynthesis of amino acids, the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, oxoacid metabolism, organic acid metabolism, carboxylic acid metabolism, and oxidation-reduction processes were considerably affected by the mixtures. This study provides evidence for the mechanisms of toxicity from combined BDE-47 and nickel exposure while also improving our understanding of the ecological risks of toxic chemicals on microalgae.
Biomarkers of Exposure to Zearalenone in In Vivo and In Vitro Studies
Authors: Llorens Paula , Herrera Marta , Juan-García Ana , Payá Juan José , Moltó Juan Carlos , Ariño Agustín , Juan Cristina
Published: April 2022

The measurement of human exposure to mycotoxins is necessary for its association with adverse health effects. This exposure is usually estimated from contamination levels of foodstuffs, which are the primary source of toxin exposure, and data on food consumption patterns. However, variations in contamination level, intestinal absorption, toxin distribution, and excretion lead to individual variations in toxin exposure that can be more readily measured with a biomarker. This review deals with the latest literature information about ZEN biomarkers in humans, animals, and cell line cultures. Their presence in urine, biomarkers that have effects in the kidney, liver, reproductive system and blood and biomarkers of cell response have been reported. It has highlighted the importance of determining α-zearalenol and β-zearalenol biomarkers to estimate the probable dietary intake (PDI) of a specific population or to characterize the severity of exposure to ZEN in animals or cell lines. α-ZEL and β-ZEL are cytotoxic by inhibiting cell proliferation, total protein and DNA syntheses, in this sense, an induction of expression proteins Hsp27 and Hsp70 was observed, and an increase in gene expression (TLR4, NF-kBp65, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, MGMT, α-GST, Hsp70, Nrf2, L-Fabp, HO-1, MAPK8), the determination of which indicates an oxidative stress effect. The integrity of the cell or tissue membrane is assessed by lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), which increase at exposure of ZEN (84.2 µM), and the proportions of some fatty acids of the renal tissue membrane were increased at treatments with ZEN. This review allows starting future studies of animal and population exposure in parallel with those of health effects works.
Aspergillus flavus and Total Aflatoxins Occurrence in Dairy Feed and Aflatoxin M1 in Bovine Milk in Aguascalientes, Mexico
Authors: Álvarez-Días Fernanda , Torres-Parga Barenca , Valdivia-Flores Arturo Gerardo , Quezada-Tristán Teódulo , Alejos-De La Fuente José Isidro , Sosa-Ramírez Joaquín , Rangel-Muñoz Erika Janet
Published: April 2022

Contamination of food chains by toxigenic fungi and aflatoxins is a global problem that causes damage to human health, as well as to crop and livestock production. The objective is to evaluate Aspergillus flavus and total aflatoxins (AFs) occurrence in totally mixed rations (TMRs) for dairy cows and aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) in milk for human consumption. Ninety-nine dairy production units located in Aguascalientes, Mexico, were randomly selected, and samples were collected from TMRs, raw milk, and milk marketed in the city in two consecutive agricultural cycles. AFs were quantified in TMRs and milk by indirect enzyme immunoassay and HPLC; aflatoxigenic and molecular (PCR) capacity of monosporic A. flavus isolates in the feed was characterized. All feed, raw, and pasteurized milk samples showed aflatoxin contamination (26.0 ± 0.4 µg/kg, 32.0 ± 1.0, and 31.3 ± 0.7 ng/L, respectively), and a significant proportion (90.4, 11.3, and 10.3%) exceeded the locally applied maximum permissible limits for feed and milk (20.0 µg/kg and 50 ng/L). Aflatoxin contamination in both TMRs and milk indicated a seasonal influence, with a higher concentration in the autumn–winter cycle when conditions of higher humidity prevail. The results obtained suggest the existence of contamination by aflatoxigenic A. flavus and aflatoxins in the diet formulated for feeding dairy cows and, consequently, in the dairy food chain of this region of the Mexican Highland Plateau.
Assessment of the Appearance and Toxin Production Potential of Invasive Nostocalean Cyanobacteria Using Quantitative Gene Analysis in Nakdong River, Korea
Authors: Kim Yong-Jin , Park Hae-Kyung , Kim In-Soo
Published: April 2022

Invasive nostocalean cyanobacteria (INC) were first reported in tropical regions and are now globally spreading rapidly due to climate change, appearing in temperate regions. INC require continuous monitoring for water resource management because of their high toxin production potential. However, it is difficult to analyze INC under a microscope because of their morphological similarity to nostocalean cyanobacteria such as the genus Aphanizomenon. This study calculates the gene copy number per cell for each target gene through quantitative gene analysis on the basis of genus-specific primers of genera Cylindrospermopsis, Sphaerospermopsis, and Cuspidothrix, and the toxin primers of anatoxin-a, saxitoxin, and cylindrospermopsin. In addition, quantitative gene analysis was performed at eight sites in the Nakdong River to assess the appearance of INC and their toxin production potential. Genera Cylindrospermopsis and Sphaerospermopsis did not exceed 100 cells mL−1 at the maximum, with a low likelihood of related toxin occurrence. The genus Cuspidothrix showed the highest cell density (1759 cells mL−1) among the INC. Nakdong River has potential for the occurrence of anatoxin-a through biosynthesis by genus Cuspidothrix because the appearance of this genus coincided with that of the anatoxin-a synthesis gene (anaF) and the detection of the toxin by ELISA.
Transcriptomic Analysis of the Venom Gland and Enzymatic Characterization of the Venom of Phoneutria depilata (Ctenidae) from Colombia
Authors: Vásquez-Escobar Julieta , Romero-Gutiérrez Teresa , Morales José Alejandro , Clement Herlinda C. , Corzo Gerardo A. , Benjumea Dora M. , Corrales-García Ligia Luz
Published: April 2022

The transcriptome of the venom glands of the Phoneutria depilata spider was analyzed using RNA-seq with an Illumina protocol, which yielded 86,424 assembled transcripts. A total of 682 transcripts were identified as potentially coding for venom components. Most of the transcripts found were neurotoxins (156) that commonly act on sodium and calcium channels. Nevertheless, transcripts coding for some enzymes (239), growth factors (48), clotting factors (6), and a diuretic hormone (1) were found, which have not been described in this spider genus. Furthermore, an enzymatic characterization of the venom of P. depilata was performed, and the proteomic analysis showed a correlation between active protein bands and protein sequences found in the transcriptome. The transcriptomic analysis of P. depilata venom glands show a deeper description of its protein components, allowing the identification of novel molecules that could lead to the treatment of human diseases, or could be models for developing bioinsecticides.
Assessing the Significance of the Circadian Time of Administration on the Effectiveness and Tolerability of OnabotulinumtoxinA for Chronic Migraine Prophylaxis
Authors: Dermitzakis Emmanouil V. , Vikelis Michail , Vlachos George S. , Argyriou Andreas A.
Published: April 2022

We aimed to provide insights on the role of the circadian time of administration in influencing the efficacy and tolerability/safety profile of OnabotulinumtoxinA (BoNTA) for chronic migraine (CM) prophylaxis. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical files of BoNTA-naïve patients with CM who completed three consecutive cycles of treatment, according to the standard PREEMPT paradigm. Participants were classified to those scheduled to be treated in the morning hours from 8:00 to 12:00 (AM) or afternoon hours from 13:00 to 18:00 (PM). We then assessed and compared between groups the changes from baseline (T0—trimester before BoNTA’s first administration) to the period after its third administration (T3) in the following efficacy outcomes: (i) mean number of headache days/month, (ii) mean number of days/month with peak headache intensity of >4/10, (iii) mean number of days/month with consumption of any abortive treatment. Safety–tolerability was also compared between groups. Results: A total of 50 AM and 50 PM-treated patients were evaluated. The within-group analysis in both groups showed a significant decrease in all efficacy variables between T0 and T3. However, the between-group comparisons of all BoNTA-related efficacy outcomes at T3 vs. T0 documented comparable improvements between AM vs. PM-treated patients. Safety/tolerability was also similar between groups. Conclusions: We were not able to identify significant differences between patients treated in the AM vs. PM, so as to demonstrate that the circadian time of administration should be considered before initiating BoNTA in CM patients.
Clinical and Evolutionary Implications of Dynamic Coagulotoxicity Divergences in Bothrops (Lancehead Pit Viper) Venoms
Authors: Bourke Lachlan Allan , Zdenek Christina N. , Tanaka-Azevedo Anita Mitico , Silveira Giovanni Perez Machado , Sant’Anna Sávio Stefanini , Grego Kathleen Fernandes , Rodrigues Caroline Fabri Bittencourt , Fry Bryan Grieg
Published: April 2022

Despite coagulotoxicity being a primary weapon for prey capture by Bothrops species (lancehead pit vipers) and coagulopathy being a major lethal clinical effect, a genus-wide comparison has not been undertaken. To fill this knowledge gap, we used thromboelastography to compare 37 venoms, from across the full range of geography, taxonomy, and ecology, for their action upon whole plasma and isolated fibrinogen. Potent procoagulant toxicity was shown to be the main venom effect of most of the species tested. However, the most basal species (B. pictus) was strongly anticoagulant; this is consistent with procoagulant toxicity being a novel trait that evolved within Bothrops subsequent to their split from anticoagulant American pit vipers. Intriguingly, two of the arboreal species studied (B. bilineatus and B. taeniatus) lacked procoagulant venom, suggesting differential evolutionary selection pressures. Notably, some terrestrial species have secondarily lost the procoagulant venom trait: the Mogi Mirim, Brazil locality of B. alternatus; San Andres, Mexico locality of B. asper; B. diporus; and the São Roque of B. jararaca. Direct action on fibrinogen was extremely variable; this is consistent with previous hypotheses regarding it being evolutionary decoupled due to procoagulant toxicity being the primary prey-capture weapon. However, human patients live long enough for fibrinogen depletion to be clinically significant. The extreme variability may be reflective of antivenom variability, with these results thereby providing a foundation for such future work of clinical relevance. Similarly, the venom diversification trends relative to ecological niche will also be useful for integration with natural history data, to reconstruct the evolutionary pressures shaping the venoms of these fascinating snakes.
Biocontrol of Fusarium graminearum, a Causal Agent of Fusarium Head Blight of Wheat, and Deoxynivalenol Accumulation: From In Vitro to In Planta
Authors: Abbas Asmaa , Yli-Mattila Tapani
Published: April 2022

Crop diseases caused by Fusarium graminearum threaten crop production in both commercial and smallholder farming. F. graminearum produces deoxynivalenol mycotoxin, which is stable during food and feed processing. Therefore, the best way to prevent the sporulation of pathogens is to develop new prevention strategies. Plant-based pesticides, i.e., natural fungicides, have recently gained interest in crop protection as alternatives to synthetic fungicides. Herein we show that treatment with the methanolic extract of medicinal plant Zanthoxylum bungeanum (M20 extract), decreased F. graminearum growth and abrogated DON production. The F. graminearum DNA levels were monitored by a quantitative TaqMan real-time PCR, while DON accumulation was assessed by HPLC quantification. This M20 extract was mainly composed of four flavonoids: quercetin, epicatechin, kaempferol-3-O-rhamnoside, and hyperoside. The in vitro bioassay, which measured the percent inhibition of fungal growth, showed that co-inoculation of four F. graminearum strains with the M20 extract inhibited the fungal growth up to 48.5%. After biocontrol treatments, F. graminearum DNA level was reduced up to 85.5% compared to that of wheat heads, which received F. graminearum mixture only. Moreover, DON production was decreased in wheat heads by 73% after biocontrol treatment; meanwhile in wheat heads inoculated with F. graminearum conidia, an average of 2.263 ± 0.8 mg/kg DON was detected. Overall, this study is a successful case from in vitro research to in planta, giving useful information for wheat protection against F. graminearum responsible for Fusarium Head Blight and DON accumulation in grains. Further studies are needed to study the mechanism by which M20 extract inhibited the DON production and what changes happened to the DON biosynthetic pathway genes.