bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Leptolyngbya sp. NIVA-CYA 255, a Promising Candidate for Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) Production under Mixotrophic Deficiency Conditions
Authors: Kettner Alexander , Noll Matthias , Griehl Carola
Published: March 2022

Cyanobacteria are a promising source for the sustainable production of biodegradable bioplastics such as poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB). The auto-phototrophic biomass formation is based on light and CO2, which is an advantage compared to heterotrophic PHB-producing systems. So far, only a handful of cyanobacterial species suitable for the high-yield synthesis of PHB have been reported. In the present study, the PHB formation, biomass, and elemental composition of Leptolyngbya sp. NIVA-CYA 255 were investigated. Therefore, a three-stage cultivation process was applied, consisting of a growth stage; an N-, P-, and NP-depleted phototrophic stage; and a subsequent mixotrophic deficiency stage, initiated by sodium acetate supplementation. The extracted cyanobacterial PHB was confirmed by FTIR- and GC-MS analyses. Furthermore, the fluorescent dyes LipidGreen2 and Nile red were used for fluorescence-based monitoring and the visualization of PHB. LipidGreen2 was well suited for PHB quantification, while the application of Nile red was limited by fluorescence emission crosstalk with phycocyanin. The highest PHB yields were detected in NP- (325 mg g−1) and N-deficiency (213 mg g−1). The glycogen pool was reduced in all cultures during mixotrophy, while lipid composition was not affected. The highest glycogen yield was formed under N-deficiency (217 mg g−1). Due to the high carbon storage capacity and PHB formation, Leptolyngbya sp. NIVA-CYA 255 is a promising candidate for PHB production. Further work will focus on upscaling to a technical scale and monitoring the formation by LipidGreen2-based fluorometry.
Extracellular Vesicles from Human Cerebrospinal Fluid Are Effectively Separated by Sepharose CL-6B—Comparison of Four Gravity-Flow Size Exclusion Chromatography Methods
Authors: Krušić Alić Vedrana , Malenica Mladenka , Biberić Maša , Zrna Siniša , Valenčić Lara , Šuput Aleksandar , Kalagac Fabris Lada , Wechtersbach Karmen , Kojc Nika , Kurtjak Mario , Kučić Natalia , Grabušić Kristina
Published: March 2022

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are a versatile group of cell-secreted membranous nanoparticles present in body fluids. They have an exceptional diagnostic potential due to their molecular content matching the originating cells and accessibility from body fluids. However, methods for EV isolation are still in development, with size exclusion chromatography (SEC) emerging as a preferred method. Here we compared four types of SEC to isolate EVs from the CSF of patients with severe traumatic brain injury. A pool of nine CSF samples was separated by SEC columns packed with Sepharose CL-6B, Sephacryl S-400 or Superose 6PG and a ready-to-use qEV10/70 nm column. A total of 46 fractions were collected and analysed by slot-blot followed by Ponceau staining. Immunodetection was performed for albumin, EV markers CD9, CD81, and lipoprotein markers ApoE and ApoAI. The size and concentration of nanoparticles in fractions were determined by tunable resistive pulse sensing and EVs were visualised by transmission electron microscopy. We show that all four SEC techniques enabled separation of CSF into nanoparticle- and free protein-enriched fractions. Sepharose CL-6B resulted in a significantly higher number of separated EVs while lipoproteins were eluted together with free proteins. Our data indicate that Sepharose CL-6B is suitable for isolation of EVs from CSF and their separation from lipoproteins.
Just-Noticeable Differences of Fundamental Frequency Change in Mandarin-Speaking Children with Cochlear Implants
Authors: Huang Wanting , Wong Lena L. N. , Chen Fei
Published: March 2022

Fundamental frequency (F0) provides the primary acoustic cue for lexical tone perception in tonal languages but remains poorly represented in cochlear implant (CI) systems. Currently, there is still a lack of understanding of sensitivity to F0 change in CI users who speak tonal languages. In the present study, just-noticeable differences (JNDs) of F0 contour and F0 level changes in Mandarin-speaking children with CIs were measured and compared with those in their age-matched normal-hearing (NH) peers. Results showed that children with CIs demonstrated significantly larger JND of F0 contour (JND-C) change and F0 level (JND-L) change compared to NH children. Further within-group comparison revealed that the JND-C change was significantly smaller than the JND-L change among children with CIs, whereas the opposite pattern was observed among NH children. No significant correlations were seen between JND-C change/JND-L change and age at implantation /duration of CI use. The contrast between children with CIs and NH children in sensitivity to F0 contour and F0 level change suggests different mechanisms of F0 processing in these two groups as a result of different hearing experiences.
Pathogenesis of Olfactory Disorders in COVID-19
Authors: Ziuzia-Januszewska Laura , Januszewski Marcin
Published: March 2022

Since the outbreak of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, olfactory disorders have been reported as a frequent symptom of COVID-19; however, its pathogenesis is still debated. The aim of this review is to summarize the current understanding of the pathogenesis of smell impairment in the course of COVID-19 and to highlight potential avenues for future research on this issue. Several theories have been proposed to explain the pathogenesis of COVID-19-related anosmia, including nasal obstruction and rhinorrhea, oedema of the olfactory cleft mucosa, olfactory epithelial damage either within the olfactory receptor cells or the supporting non-neural cells (either direct or immune-mediated), damage to the olfactory bulb, and impairment of the central olfactory pathways. Although the pathogenesis of COVID-19-related anosmia is still not fully elucidated, it appears to be mainly due to sensorineural damage, with infection of the olfactory epithelium support cells via the ACE1 receptor and disruption of the OE caused by immense inflammatory reaction, and possibly with direct olfactory sensory neurons infection mediated by the NRP-1 receptor. Involvement of the higher olfactory pathways and a conductive component of olfactory disorders, as well as genetic factors, may also be considered.
Quantitative Evaluation of Apically Extruded Debris of Root Canal Dentin Layer with WaveOne, ProTaper Next, ProTaper Gold Rotary File Systems
Authors: Ali Muhammad , Ahmed Muhammad Adeel , Syed Azeem Ul Yaqin , Jamil Asmat , Khan Seher Pervaiz , AlMokhatieb Ahmed A. , Abdulwahed Abdulaziz , Al-Aali Khulud A. , Vohra Fahim , Abduljabbar Tariq
Published: March 2022

Endodontic flare-up or post-operative pain occurs when debris such as necrotic pulp tissue, dentin chips, irrigants, and microorganisms are extruded from the apical foramen intraoperatively into the periradicular tissue during root canal instrumentation. This study compared the amount of apical debris extrusion of the root canal dentin layer after using reciprocating and rotary file systems (WaveOne, ProTaper Next and ProTaper Gold). Sixty extracted human maxillary central incisors with one canal and closed apex were included in the study. Samples were randomly and equally divided into three groups (n = 20) according to the file systems used for preparation of the root canal. Teeth in the WO group were instrumented by WaveOne, while the PTN group were instrumented by ProTaper Next, and teeth samples in the PTG group were cleaned and shaped by ProTaper Gold. The mean apically extruded debris weight in grams was estimated using the modified Myers and Montgomery experimental model. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) test was used for the comparison of debris weight in three groups. Post hoc LSD test was applied for pairwise comparison of debris weight. The α value of significance was 0.05. The WO group had significantly lower mean debris weight than the PTN and PTG groups (p = 0.001). Post hoc pairwise comparison revealed that there was a statistically significant difference in mean debris weight between the WO group and PTN group (0.0215 vs. 0.0341, p = 0.001); and the WO group and PTG group (0.0215 vs. 0.0324, p = 0.003). Root canal preparations with different file systems were associated with apical extrusion of the debris from the root canal dentin layer. However, the WaveOne system resulted in a comparatively lower amount of apical debris layer extrusion than the ProTaper Next and ProTaper Gold rotary file systems.
Infrared-to-Visible Upconversion Devices
Authors: Rao Tianyu , Chen Menglu , Mu Ge , Tang Xin
Published: March 2022

Infrared imaging plays remarkable roles in various fields including military, biomedicine, aerospace, and artificial intelligence. However, traditional infrared imaging systems have plenty of disadvantages such as large volume, high cost, and complex fabrication process. Emerging infrared upconversion imaging devices can directly convert low-energy infrared photons into high-energy visible light photons, thus they are promising to accomplish pixel-less high-resolution infrared imaging at low cost. In this paper, recent advances and progress of infrared-to-visible upconversion devices are summarized. We further offer the main limitations of upconversion technology and the challenges that need to be addressed for the future development of infrared upconverters.
In Vivo Identification of Skin Photodamage Induced by Fractional CO2 and Picosecond Nd:YAG Lasers with Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Ng Chau Yee , Wang Tai-Ang , Lee Hsiang-Chieh , Huang Bo-Huei , Tsai Meng-Tsan
Published: March 2022

Fractional laser treatment is commonly used for dermatological applications, enabling effective induction of collagen regeneration and significantly reducing recovery time. However, it is challenging to observe laser-induced photodamage beneath the tissue surface in vivo, making the non-invasive evaluation of treatment outcomes difficult. For in vivo real-time study of the photodamage induced by fractional pulsed CO2 and Nd:YAG lasers commonly utilized for clinical therapy, a portable spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) system was implemented for clinical studies. The photodamage caused by two lasers, including photothermal and photoacoustic effects, was investigated using OCT, together with the correlation between photodamage and exposure energy. Additionally, to investigate the change in the optical properties of tissue due to photodamage, the attenuation coefficients and damaged areas of normal skin and laser-treated skin were estimated for comparison. Finally, the recovery of the exposed skin with both lasers was also compared using OCT. The results show that OCT can be a potential solution for in vivo investigation of laser-induced tissue damage and quantitative evaluation.
Effects of the Reading Practice Platform (Readvise) in Developing Self-Regulated Reading Skills of Tertiary Students in L2 Learning
Authors: Akopyan Anait , Saks Katrin
Published: March 2022

Reading, as one of the four basic language skills, activates language learning. Tertiary-level students often undermine this opportunity and rarely read anything in addition to their course assignments. Rapid technological developments offer additional possibilities in this domain. The present study aims to define to what extent the specifically designed web-based reading platform (Readvise) can support and improve students’ second language reading skills with the intent to transform them into self-regulated reading (SRR) skills. The focus of this design-based research is 39 undergraduate students who study English as a second language (L2). According to the results, through the elimination of the main barriers and uncertainties declared by the students when reading independently in L2, the platform contributes to the advancement of L2 reading skills of the students, encourages changes in their L2 reading behaviour, fosters metacognitive abilities, and reinforces intrinsic reading motivation. When supported consistently through the platform, these features can ensure the development and enhancement of SRR skills in the long run, contributing equally to the improvement of the students’ L2 proficiency level.
The Contribution of Exercise in Telemedicine Monitoring in Reducing the Modifiable Factors of Hypertension—A Multidisciplinary Approach
Authors: Viana Silvane , Salvador Rogério , Morouço Pedro , Rebelo-Gonçalves Ricardo
Published: March 2022

The aim of this review was to explore the contribution of physical activity and exercise in the control and reduction of modifiable factors of arterial hypertension in telemedicine programs, assuming a multidisciplinary perspective. Searches were carried out following the PRISMA guidelines (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses), and the research question defined using the PICOS approach (Population, Intervention, Comparator, Outcomes, Study design). The search strategy applied the following terms: blood pressure OR hypertension AND exercise OR physical activity AND telemedicine. The initial search identified 2190 records, but only 19 studies were considered eligible after checking for the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The following training variables were generally included: heart rate and heart rate reserve, respiratory rate, rate of perceived exertion and oxygen consumption, but no resistance training variables were found. The significant improvements on blood pressure parameters of participants diagnosed with hypertension tended to be transient. The exercise prescription was commonly based on general instructions and recommendations for exercise and hypertension. On the other hand, most of the studies including patients in cardiac rehabilitation programs used a personalized training program based on a baseline assessment, particularly following a cardiopulmonary exercise test. The inclusion of exercise professionals in multidisciplinary teams could provide a more person-oriented approach and the long-term maintenance of a healthy lifestyle.
Efficient Generation of Cancelable Face Templates Based on Quantum Image Hilbert Permutation
Authors: Alhumyani Hesham , El-Banby Ghada M. , El-Sayed Hala S. , Abd El-Samie Fathi E. , Faragallah Osama S.
Published: March 2022

The pivotal need to identify people requires efficient and robust schemes to guarantee high levels of personal information security. This paper introduces an encryption algorithm to generate cancelable face templates based on quantum image Hilbert permutation. The objective is to provide sufficient distortion of human facial biometrics to be stored in a database for authentication requirements through encryption. The strength of the proposed Cancelable Biometric (CB) scheme is guaranteed through the ability to generate cancelable face templates by performing the scrambling operation of the face biometrics after addition of a noise mask with a pre-specified variance and an initial seed. Generating the cancelable templates depends on a strategy with three basic steps: Initialization, Odd module, and Even module. Notably, the proposed scheme achieves high recognition rates based on the Area under the Receiver Operating Characteristic (AROC) curve, with a value up to 99.51%. Furthermore, comparisons with the state-of-the-art schemes for cancelable face recognition are performed to validate the proposed scheme.
An Integrated Analysis Framework of Convolutional Neural Network for Embedded Edge Devices
Authors: Lim Seung-Ho , Kang Shin-Hyeok , Ko Byeong-Hyun , Roh Jaewon , Lim Chaemin , Cho Sang-Young
Published: March 2022

Recently, IoT applications using Deep Neural Network (DNN) to embedded edge devices are increasing. Generally, in the case of DNN applications in the IoT system, training is mainly performed in the server and inference operation is performed on the edge device. The embedded edge devices still take a lot of loads in inference operations due to low computing resources, so proper customization of DNN with architectural exploration is required. However, there are few integrated frameworks to facilitate exploration and customization of various DNN models and their operations in embedded edge devices. In this paper, we propose an integrated framework that can explore and customize DNN inference operations of DNN models on embedded edge devices. The framework consists of the GUI interface part, the inference engine part, and the hardware Deep Learning Accelerator (DLA) Virtual Platform (VP) part. Specifically it focuses on Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), and provides integrated interoperability for convolutional neural network models and neural network customization techniques such as quantization and cross-inference functions. In addition, performance estimation is possible by providing hardware DLA VP for embedded edge devices. Those features are provided as web-based GUI interfaces, so users can easily utilize them.
A Tunable Constant-Absolute-Bandwidth Bandpass Filter with Switchable Ability
Authors: Du Tiejun , Wei Dujuan , Zhang Pengquan , Guan Boran , Gu Yue
Published: March 2022

This paper presents a tunable bandpass filter (BPF) with constant absolute bandwidth (CABW) and switchable properties. The BPF is performed by using a tri-mode cross-shape resonator (CSR) loaded with varactors. The CABW and switchable ability are achieved by adjusting the resonant frequencies. Meanwhile, the two transmission zeros (TZs) produced by center-loaded stubs strengthen the skirt selectivity in the on-state and the isolation in the off-state. For demonstration, a tri-pole switchable BPF with three control voltages is implemented and verified, and the control mechanism is simple. In the on-state, it exhibits a 120 MHz, 3 dB CABW with the measured insertion loss (IL) of 2.2–2.5 dB in the tuning range of 0.816–1.188 GHz. In the off-state, the measured isolation is better than 27 dB.
A Different Approach for Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) Using Impedance Matching through Non-Isolated DC-DC Converters in Solar Photovoltaic Systems
Authors: Verma Deepak , Nema Savita , Agrawal Rakeshwri , Sawle Yashwant , Kumar Alok
Published: March 2022

This paper presents a maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithm in a solar photovoltaic (SPV) system that requires fewer sensors, is easy to implement, and offers a good tracking efficiency and speed. Among various MPPT algorithms found in literature, the perturb and observe (P&O) algorithm is most popular as it required less complex circuitry and is easy to implement, but it suffers against fast-changing environmental conditions mostly in the case of partial shading conditions and requires two sensors, i.e., voltage and current. This paper presents the one sensor-based method based on the modified converter design which eliminates the effect of partial shading conditions as well as the fast-changing environmental condition. The presented MPPT algorithm was implemented and tested using an FPGA-based NI-sbRIO card interfaced with Labview software.
Kinetic Aspects of the Interactions between TiO2 Nanoparticles, Mercury and the Green Alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii
Authors: Li Mengting , Slaveykova Vera I.
Published: March 2022

Aquatic organisms are exposed to mixtures of environmental pollutants, including engineered nanoparticles; however, the interactions underlying cocktails’ effects are poorly understood, in particular, the kinetic aspects. The present study explored the time course of the interactions between nano-sized titanium dioxide (nTiO2) with different primary particle sizes, algae and inorganic mercury (Hg) over 96 h under conditions that were representative of a highly contaminated environment. The results showed that nTiO2 with smaller primary particle size and higher concentrations rapidly reduced the adsorption and internalization of mercury by green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. Such a mitigating effect on mercury bioavailability could be explained by the strong adsorbing capacity of nTiO2 for Hg and the aggregation and sedimentation of nTiO2 and bound Hg. The present study highlighted the key processes determining the bioavailability of mercury to the algae in mixture exposure under conditions representative of a highly contaminated environment, such as industrial wastewater effluents.
Effect of Rhodanese Enzyme Addition on Rumen Fermentation, Cyanide Concentration, and Feed Utilization in Beef Cattle Receiving Various Levels of Fresh Cassava Root
Authors: Supapong Chanadol , Sommai Sukruthai , Khonkhaeng Benjamad , Suntara Chanon , Prachumchai Rittikeard , Phesatcha Kampanat , Chanjula Pin , Cherdthong Anusorn
Published: March 2022

Fresh cassava root is not recommended for animal feeding due to high quantities of hydrocyanic acid (HCN), which produces symptoms of poisoning. The purpose of this study was to find out how a rhodanese enzyme addition affects rumen fermentation, HCN content, feed utilization, and blood metabolites in beef calves fed fresh cassava root. Four Thai native beef cattle with an initial body weight (BW) of 95 ± 10.0 kg (1–1.5 years old) were randomly allocated to receive fresh cassava root containing HCN at 0, 300, 450, and 600 ppm according to a 4 × 4 Latin square design. Rice straw was the basal diet. The rhodanese enzyme was combined with concentrated feeds at a concentration of 1 mg/104 ppm HCN. The fresh cassava root was cleaned to remove dirt and chopped into 3 to 5 mm sized pieces before being fed to the animals at their various levels. The total feed intake of beef cattle increased when fed with fresh cassava root (p < 0.05). The digestibility of crude protein (CP) was different among various fresh cassava root levels (p < 0.05). Ruminal ammonia-N levels were measured 4 hours after feeding, and the average concentration declined considerably in animals fed fresh cassava root at 300–600 ppm HCN (p < 0.05). Cyanide concentration in the rumen was linearly increased by 270.6% (p < 0.05) when it was supplemented with a high level of fresh cassava root. Blood urea-N concentration was altered and decreased when supplemented with fresh cassava root (p < 0.01). The blood thiocyanate concentration was altered by the levels of fresh cassava root and rhodanese enzyme, which ranged from 4.1 to 27.9 mg/dL (p < 0.01). Cattle given fresh cassava root showed no influence on total volatile fatty acid, acetic acid, or butyric acid concentrations in the rumen (p > 0.05). However, the concentration of propionic acid increased slightly (p < 0.05) 4 hours after feeding. Supplementing fresh cassava root up to 600 ppm HCN/day improved N absorption, retention, and the proportion of N retention to N intake (p < 0.05). Therefore, increasing the inclusion of fresh cassava root with a rhodanese enzyme addition improves total feed intake, CP digestibility, nitrogen utilization, blood thiocyanate, and propionate concentrations, which may remove HCN without harming animal health.
Fenton-Mediated Chlorophenol Degradation by Iron-Reducing Compounds Isolated from Endophytic Fungi in Atacama Puna Plateau Lecanicillium ATA01
Authors: Oses-Pedraza Rómulo , Bonnail Estefanía , Lavin Paris , Purcarea Cristina , Alarcón Manuel , Irribarren-Riquelme Danae , Rodríguez Jaime
Published: March 2022

Low-molecular-mass iron-reducing compounds (IRCs) were produced by entomopathogenic endophytic fungi Lecanicillium sp. ATA01 in liquid cultures. The extracellular hydrophilic extract contained three IRCs formed by peptides, iron and phenolate structures with molecular masses of 1207, 567 and 550 Da. These compounds were able to chelate and mediate the reduction of Fe+3 to Fe+2 and oxidized recalcitrant lignin-model substrates such as veratryl alcohol (VA), 2,6-dimethoxyphenol (DMP), and 2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid (ABTS) with or without hydrogen peroxide. Besides, IRCs can promote the degradation of chlorophenols. The maximal degradation of p-chlorophenol, 2,4-dichlorophenol, 2,4,6-trichlorophenol, and pentachlorophenol was conducted at optimal degradation conditions for IRCs (pH 3.5, iron 100 mM, and H2O2 10 mM). Furthermore, Fenton-like reactions using the synthetic iron chelates DTPA and EDTA and free Fe+2 and Fe+3 were also carried out in order to compare with the reaction mediated by IRCs. The ferric IRCs displayed the ability to enhance the hydroxylation of chlorophenols as a part of a degradation mechanism of the IRC-assisted Fenton reaction. The complexed iron was more efficient than free iron in the Fenton-like reaction, and between them, the fungal chelates were more efficient than the synthetic mill chelates.
An Ensembling Architecture Incorporating Machine Learning Models and Genetic Algorithm Optimization for Forex Trading
Authors: Loh Leonard , Kueh Hee , Parikh Nirav , Chan Harry , Ho Nicholas , Chua Matthew
Published: March 2022

Algorithmic trading has become the standard in the financial market. Traditionally, most algorithms have relied on rule-based expert systems which are a set of complex if/then rules that need to be updated manually to changing market conditions. Machine learning (ML) is the natural next step in algorithmic trading because it can directly learn market patterns and behaviors from historical trading data and factor this into trading decisions. In this paper, a complete end-to-end system is proposed for automated low-frequency quantitative trading in the foreign exchange (Forex) markets. The system utilizes several State of the Art (SOTA) machine learning strategies that are combined under an ensemble model to derive the market signal for trading. Genetic Algorithm (GA) is used to optimize the strategies for maximizing profits. The system also includes a money management strategy to mitigate risk and a back-testing framework to evaluate system performance. The models were trained on EUR–USD pair Forex data from Jan 2006 to Dec 2019, and subsequently evaluated on unseen samples from Jan 2020 to Dec 2020. The system performance is promising under ideal conditions. The ensemble model achieved about 10% nett P&L with −0.7% drawdown level based on 2020 trading data. Further work is required to calibrate trading costs & execution slippage in real market conditions. It is concluded that with the increased market volatility due to the global pandemic, the momentum behind machine learning algorithms that can adapt to a changing market environment will become even stronger.
Spirulina as Animal Feed: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Altmann Brianne A. , Rosenau Simon
Published: March 2022

Increasing demand for protein, especially animal-based proteins and the large amounts of protein feed inputs required for production, has largely driven the research on spirulina as an animal feed. This short communication summarizes the results from two larger research projects investigating spirulina as an animal feed. Overall, spirulina appears to be a prospective protein source in poultry and pork production, as well as aquaculture. However, spirulina as a feed can have implications for system productivity and end product quality, depending on animal production system. Neither swine productivity nor product quality was negatively affected with spirulina as a feed, which is likely due to the low amounts of protein required in swine finishing diets. Spirulina as a feed does negatively affect poultry and fish productivity as well as alter product quality, primarily raw meat color. Therefore, future research focused on sustainability analysis and product processing and acceptance should investigate the trade-offs of incorporating spirulina into poultry and fish diets.
Differences between Kazak Cheeses Fermented by Single and Mixed Strains Using Untargeted Metabolomics
Authors: Li Yandie , Wang Jianghan , Wang Tong , Lv Zhuoxia , Liu Linting , Wang Yuping , Li Xu , Fan Zhexin , Li Baokun
Published: March 2022

Mixed fermentation improves the flavor quality of food. Untargeted metabolomics were used to evaluate the impact of mixed fermentation and single-strain fermentation on the volatile and non-volatile compound profiles of Kazak cheese. Lacticaseibacillus paracasei SMN-LBK and Kluyveromyces marxianus SMN-S7-LBK were used to make mixed-fermentation cheese (M), while L. paracasei SMN-LBK was applied in single-strain-fermentation cheese (S). A higher abundances of acids, alcohols, and esters were produced via mixed fermentation. Furthermore, 397 differentially expressed non-volatile metabolites were identified between S and M during ripening. The flavor compounds in mixed-fermentation cheese mainly resulted from ester production (ethyl butanoate, ethyl acetate, ethyl octanoate, and ethyl hexanoate) and amino acid biosynthesis (Asp, Glu, Gln, and Phe). The metabolites were differentially expressed in nitrogen metabolism, D-glutamine and D-glutamate metabolism, phenylalanine metabolism, D-alanine metabolism, and other metabolic pathways. The amount of flavor compounds was increased in M, indicating that L. paracasei SMN- LBK and K. marxianus SMN-S7-LBK had synergistic effects in the formation of flavor compounds. This study comprehensively demonstrated the difference in metabolites between mixed-fermentation and single-strain-fermentation cheese and provided a basis for the production of Kazak cheese with diverse flavor characteristics.
Stress-Dependent Permeability of Naturally Micro-Fractured Shale
Authors: He Jianglin , Wang Jian , Yu Qian , Cheng Chaojie , Milsch Harald
Published: March 2022

The permeability characteristics of natural fracture systems are crucial to the production potential of shale gas wells. To investigate the permeability behavior of a regional fault that is located within the Wufeng Formation, China, the gas permeability of shale samples with natural micro-fractures was measured at different confining pressures and complemented with helium pycnometry for porosity, computed micro-tomographic (µCT) imaging, and a comparison with well testing data. The cores originated from a shale gas well (HD-1) drilled at the Huayingshan anticline in the eastern Sichuan Basin. The measured Klinkenberg permeabilities are in the range between 0.059 and 5.9 mD, which roughly agrees with the permeability of the regional fault (0.96 mD) as estimated from well HD-1 productivity data. An extrapolation of the measured permeability to reservoir pressures in combination with the µCT images shows that the stress sensitivity of the permeability is closely correlated to the micro-fracture distribution and orientation. Here, the permeability of the samples in which the micro-fractures are predominantly oriented along the flow direction is the least stress sensitive. This implies that tectonic zones with a large fluid potential gradient can define favorable areas for shale gas exploitation, potentially even without requirements for hydraulic fracture treatments.
The Monumental UNESCO Site of Panamá Viejo: Investigation of the Masonry Mortars
Authors: Ciantelli Chiara , Sardella Alessandro , Arroyo Duarte Silvia , Pecchioni Elena , Bonazza Alessandra
Published: March 2022

The presented study illustrates the characterisation of several artificial materials (bedding, joint mortars, and plasters) belonging to the masonries of the UNESCO site of Panamá Viejo, located in Panama City (Panama). This monumental site represents the first Spanish settlement on the Pacific Coast, founded 500 years ago, in 1519. Through mineralogical and petrographic analyses of the collected samples, as stereomicroscope and polarized light microscopy (PLM) observations of bulk and thin sections, respectively, environmental scanning electron microscopy and micro-chemical investigations (ESEM-EDX) and X-Ray Powder diffraction (XRPD) analysis, it was possible to identify the composition of the materials utilized for the production of mortars and plasters, in addition to the determination of their state of conservation. Therefore, this work represents a substantial step for the preservation of the Panamá Viejo site, in order to support the selection of the most suitable restoration products, such as consolidants, protectives, etc., but also for choosing the most compatible materials for possible replacements/integrations in the masonries.
Importance of Fog and Cloud Water Contributions to Soil Moisture in the Andean Páramo
Authors: Berrones Gina , Crespo Patricio , Ochoa-Sánchez Ana , Wilcox Bradford P. , Célleri Rolando
Published: March 2022

Páramos are particular ecosystems of the Tropical Andes, where fog and low-intensity rainfall such as drizzle are commonly frequent—but the contribution of these water sources to soil water replenishment and discharge is not yet clear, mainly because the development of techniques for separating fog from drizzle and wind-driven rainfall has been challenging. Fog was measured with a cylindrical Juvik gauge and types of precipitation other than fog with a high-resolution disdrometer. Soil moisture was measured at 100 mm depth by means of Water Content Reflectometers, then Effective precipitation (EP) was calculated. We categorized events as two types: fog only (FO) and cloud water (CW). We found that in the case of FO events, only small amounts reached the soil (EP ranged between 0.1 and 0.2 mm); in contrast, greater amounts of EP originated from CW events (maximum value of 4.3 mm). Although we found that FO events are negligible for stream water contribution; they are ecologically important for maintaining high relative humidity, low net radiation, and consequently low evapotranspiration rates. Our research provides new insights into the hydrological role of fog, enabling us to better understand to what extent its input influences the water resources of the Andean páramo.
The Use of Machine Learning Algorithms in Urban Tree Species Classification
Authors: Cetin Zehra , Yastikli Naci
Published: March 2022

Trees are the key components of urban vegetation in cities. The timely and accurate identification of existing urban tree species with their location is the most important task for improving air, water, and land quality; reducing carbon accumulation; mitigating urban heat island effects; and protecting soil and water balance. Light detection and ranging (LiDAR) is frequently used for extracting high-resolution structural information regarding tree objects. LiDAR systems are a cost-effective alternative to the traditional ways of identifying tree species, such as field surveys and aerial photograph interpretation. The aim of this work was to assess the usage of machine learning algorithms for classifying the deciduous (broadleaf) and coniferous tree species from 3D raw LiDAR data on the Davutpasa Campus of Yildiz Technical University, Istanbul, Turkey. First, ground, building, and low, medium, and high vegetation classes were acquired from raw LiDAR data using a hierarchical-rule-based classification method. Next, individual tree crowns were segmented using a mean shift clustering algorithm from high vegetation points. A total of 25 spatial- and intensity-based features were utilized for support vector machine (SVM), random forest (RF), and multi-layer perceptron (MLP) classifiers to discriminate deciduous and coniferous tree species in the urban area. The machine learning-based classification’s overall accuracies were 80%, 83.75%, and 73.75% for the SVM, RF, and MLP classifiers, respectively, in split 70/30 (training/testing). The SVM and RF algorithms generally gave better classification results than the MLP algorithm for identifying the urban tree species.
Effect of Wild Blueberry Metabolites on Biomarkers of Gastrointestinal and Immune Health In Vitro
Authors: Rathinasabapathy Thirumurugan , Lomax Jade , Srikanth Kavin , Esposito Debora , Kay Colin D. , Komarnytsky Slavko
Published: March 2022

Wild blueberries (Vaccinium angustifolium Aiton.) are a rich source of dietary fiber and (poly)phenols with gastrointestinal and immune health-promoting properties, however, their mechanisms of action on the intestinal epithelial cells and transient tissue macrophages remain to be elucidated. In this study, we evaluated the individual effects of anthocyanins, short-chain fatty acids (metabolites derived from fiber), and a series of hydroxycinnamic and hydroxybenzoic acid metabolites common to anthocyanins and other polyphenols on epithelial gut homeostasis in human colon epithelial CCD-18 cells and murine RAW 264.7 macrophages. Gastrointestinal cell migration was enhanced in response to anthocyanin glucosides with the maximum effect observed for malvidin-3-glucoside, and a structural subset of hydroxybenzoic acids, especially 2-hydroxybenzoic acid. Enhanced staining for ZO-1 protein in the junctional complexes was observed in CCD-18 cells treated with malvidin and butyrate, as well as several phenolic metabolites, including hydroxybenzoic and hydroxycinnamic acids. Nitric oxide production and pro-inflammatory gene expression profiles in the LPS-stimulated macrophages were mostly affected by treatments with 3-caffeoylquinic (chlorogenic) and 3,4-dihydroxycinnamic (caffeic) acids, as well as 2-hydroxybenzoic acid. This study lays the foundation for future investigations evaluating the effects of dietary interventions on managing gastrointestinal and inflammatory pathophysiological outcomes.
An Enhanced Heterogeneous Gateway-Based Energy-Aware Multi-Hop Routing Protocol for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Jibreel Fuseini , Tuyishimire Emmanuel , Daabo Mohammed Ibrahim
Published: March 2022

Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) continue to provide essential services for various applications such as surveillance, data gathering, and data transmission from hazardous environments to safer destinations. This has been enhanced by the energy-efficient routing protocols that are mostly designed for such purposes. Gateway-based Energy-Aware Multi-hop Routing protocol (MGEAR) is one of the homogenous routing schemes that was recently designed to more efficiently reduce the energy consumption of distant nodes. However, it has been found that the protocol has a high energy consumption rate, lower stability period, and poorer data transmission to the Base station (BS) when it was deployed for a longer period of time. In this paper, an enhanced Heterogeneous Gateway-based Energy-Aware multi-hop routing protocol (HMGEAR) is proposed. The proposed routing scheme is based on the introduction of heterogeneous nodes in the existing scheme, selection of the head based on the residual energy, introduction of multi-hop communication strategy in all the regions of the network, and implementation of energy hole elimination technique. All these strategies are aiming at reducing energy consumption and extend the life of the network. Results show that the proposed routing scheme outperforms two existing ones in terms of stability period, throughputs, residual energy, and the lifetime of the network.
Inferring Spatial Distance Rankings with Partial Knowledge on Routing Networks
Authors: Köppl Dominik
Published: March 2022

The most common problem on routing networks is to compute the shortest paths from a source vertex to a set of target vertices. A variation of it, with applications for recommender systems, asks to merely rank the target vertices with respect to the shortest distances from the source. A classic solution is Dijkstra’s algorithm; however, it is too slow for large but meaningful applications. A setting where the target vertices are fixed but the source vertex is only known at query time allows for preprocessing. Following the line of research on preprocessing the routing network to speed up the computation of shortest paths, we study in this article a novel approach tackling the problem of ranking the static set of target vertices on the routing network with regard to the distance from a given source vertex to these target vertices by leveraging preprocessing. Our approach allows us to generate a partial solution by pre-computing the distances between all targets so that a shortest-path algorithm does not have to determine the shortest path from the source to every target in general. Our proposal can be adopted for both static and time-dependent networks, and it can be used in conjunction with a general shortest-path algorithm. We can experimentally observe significant speed-ups when using our proposed techniques.
Association of Fig Pollinating Wasps and Fig Nematodes inside Male and Female Figs of a Dioecious Fig Tree in Sumatra, Indonesia
Authors: Jauharlina  , Oktarina Hartati , Sriwati Rina , Sayuthi Muhammad , Kanzaki Natsumi , Quinnell Rupert J. , Compton Stephen G.
Published: March 2022

Nematodes can grow within the inflorescences of many fig trees (Ficus spp., Moraceae); however, the feeding behaviour of most nematodes is not known. Fig pollinating wasps (Hymenoptera: Agaonidae) transfer nematodes into young figs upon the wasps’ entry into the figs to deposit their eggs. Most Asian fig trees, however, are functionally dioecious, and the pollinating wasps that enter female figs are unable to reproduce. They fail to produce the offspring required to carry the new generations of nematodes. We examined whether female figs of F. hispida can nonetheless support the development of phoretic nematode populations. Nematodes were extracted from male and female figs sampled in Sumatra, Indonesia, to compare the growth of their populations within the figs. We found three species of nematodes that grew within figs of male and female trees of F. hispida: Ficophagus cf. centerae (Aphelenchoididae), Martininema baculum (Aphelenchoididae) and Caenorhabditis sp (Rhabditidae). The latter species (Caenorhabditis sp.) has never been reported to be associated with F. hispida before. Nematode populations peaked at around 120–140 individuals in both sexes of figs, at the time when a succeeding generation of adult fig wasps appeared within male figs. The female figs could support the growth and reproduction of the three nematodes species; however, the absence of vectors meant that female figs remained as traps from which there could be no escape.
Growth of the Black Soldier Fly Hermetia illucens (Diptera: Stratiomyidae) on Organic-Waste Residues and Its Application as Supplementary Diet for Nile Tilapia Oreochromis niloticus (Perciformes: Cichlidae)
Authors: Pérez-Pacheco Rafael , Hinojosa-Garro Demián , Ruíz-Ortíz Fernando , Camacho-Chab Juan , Ortega-Morales Benjamín , Alonso-Hernández Nancy , Fonseca-Muñoz Alicia , Landero-Valenzuela Nadia , Loeza-Concha Henry , Diego-Nava Fidel , Arroyo-Balán Fabián , Granados-Echegoyen Carlos
Published: March 2022

The black soldier fly, Hermetia illucens (BSF, Diptera: Stratiomyidae) is an insect with high protein value and a potential feed agent for animals aimed for human consumption. The growth parameters of BSF larvae reared on four substrates—restaurant-waste, fruit-waste, fish-waste, and commercial tilapia food—for 41 days before processing for inclusion into Oreochromis niloticus (Perciformes: Cichlidae, Nile tilapia) commercial fry diets at 30% (70:30) were determined. On fly larvae, the food substrate based on restaurant waste yielded the greatest larval weight and length. BSF larvae fed a fish-waste diet showed the shortest developmental time. The fruit-waste diet induced the lowest weight and length in the fly larvae/pre-pupae (immature stage). The pre-pupal protein values were similar to commercial food. On fry-fish, the diets with pre-pupae grown on fish waste showed the greatest yields regarding weight (biomass), length, and nutritional content. These results suggest the BSF has the potential to be used in fish feed and provides an alternative for commercial cultivation.
Field Suppression of Spotted Wing Drosophila (SWD) (Drosophila suzukii Matsumura) Using the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT)
Authors: Homem Rafael , Mateos-Fierro Zeus , Jones Rory , Gilbert Daniel , Mckemey Andrew , Slade Glen , Fountain Michelle
Published: March 2022

Drosophila suzukii (spotted wing drosophila—SWD) is an economically important pest of soft and stone fruit worldwide. Control relies on broad-spectrum insecticides, which are neither fully effective nor environmentally sustainable. The sterile insect technique (SIT) is a proven, effective and environmentally friendly pest-management tool. Here, we investigated, for the first time, the potential of using SIT to control D. suzukii in field conditions without physical barriers that limit insect invasion. A proprietary method of rearing and irradiation with X-rays was used to obtain males that were > 99% sterile. Sterile males were released twice per week from April to October 2021 on a site in Kent, UK, where everbearing strawberries were grown in open polytunnels. The infestation of wild female D. suzukii was monitored weekly using red sticky traps with dry lure at the treated site and at two similar control sites that did not receive sterile male releases. Releases of sterile males suppressed the wild female D. suzukii population by up to 91% in comparison with the control sites. We thus demonstrated the feasibility of SIT to achieve season-long control of D. suzukii using early, sustained and dynamically targeted releases of sterile males. This provides a promising environmentally friendly method to control this important pest.
Arrhythmogenic Cardiomyopathy: Diagnosis, Evolution, Risk Stratification and Pediatric Population—Where Are We?
Authors: Cicenia Marianna , Drago Fabrizio
Published: March 2022

Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM) is a cardiomyopathy characterized by the occurrence of a high risk of life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death even at presentation. Diagnosis, evolution and outcomes in adults have been extensively reported, but little data in pediatric population are available. Risk stratification in this particular setting is still a matter of debate and new risk factors are needed in a model of an ever more “individualized medicine”.
Acute Effect of Evolocumab on Lipoprotein(a) Level and Inflammation in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Choi Seung Woo , Kim Joan , Jang Gyeong Won , Lee Young Shin , Park Jin Sun , Lee Jung Myung , Kim Hyung Oh , Chung Hyemoon , Woo Jong Shin , Kim Woo Shik , Kim Weon
Published: March 2022

Background: Several studies have shown that high plasma lipoprotein(a) concentrations are associated with an increased risk of arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Thus, Lp(a) has emerged as a new therapeutic target. Circulating proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors are new lipid-lowering agents that reduce low-density lipoprotein cholesterol as well as Lp(a). Methods: We analyzed the short-term effects of one-time administration of evolocumab (a PCSK9 inhibitor) on the lipid profiles (especially Lp(a)) and inflammatory markers in Korean patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Sixty-four patients with CAD who underwent PCI were enrolled in this trial. Evolocumab (140 mg) was administered to patients within 24 h after PCI. Lipid profiles and inflammatory marker levels were measured at baseline and 2 weeks later. Results: The PCSK9 inhibitor significantly reduced the baseline levels of Lp(a) (−9.2 mg/dL, p < 0.001), but high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (+0.07 mg/dL, p = 0.272) was not significantly different after 2 weeks. In patients with an Lp(a) level of 50 mg/dL or more, the Lp(a) level decreased significantly by approximately 30%, from 95.6 mg/dL to 67.0 mg/dL (p < 0.001). Conclusions: One-time PCSK9 inhibitor treatment may be effective in lowering Lp(a) levels in Korean patients in the short term.
Recent Trends in the Epidemiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Macrolide-Resistant Mycoplasma pneumoniae
Authors: Oishi Tomohiro , Ouchi Kazunobu
Published: March 2022

Among Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP) is one of the major pathogens causing lower respiratory tract infection. Macrolide-resistant Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MRMP) isolates have been increasing and has become a global concern, especially in East Asian countries. This affects the treatment of MP infection; that is, some patients with MRMP infections fever cannot be controlled despite macrolide therapy. Therefore, alternative therapies, including secondary antimicrobials, including tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones, or systemic corticosteroids, were introduced. However, there are insufficient data on these alternative therapies. Thus, this article provides reviews of the recent trends in the epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment of MRMP.