bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
3D Automated Segmentation of Lower Leg Muscles Using Machine Learning on a Heterogeneous Dataset
Authors: Rohm Marlena , Markmann Marius , Forsting Johannes , Rehmann Robert , Froeling Martijn , Schlaffke Lara
Published: September 2021

Quantitative MRI combines non-invasive imaging techniques to reveal alterations in muscle pathophysiology. Creating muscle-specific labels manually is time consuming and requires an experienced examiner. Semi-automatic and fully automatic methods reduce segmentation time significantly. Current machine learning solutions are commonly trained on data from healthy subjects using homogeneous databases with the same image contrast. While yielding high Dice scores (DS), those solutions are not applicable to different image contrasts and acquisitions. Therefore, the aim of our study was to evaluate the feasibility of automatic segmentation of a heterogeneous database. To create a heterogeneous dataset, we pooled lower leg muscle images from different studies with different contrasts and fields-of-view, containing healthy controls and diagnosed patients with various neuromuscular diseases. A second homogenous database with uniform contrasts was created as a subset of the first database. We trained three 3D-convolutional neuronal networks (CNN) on those databases to test performance as compared to manual segmentation. All networks, training on heterogeneous data, were able to predict seven muscles with a minimum average DS of 0.75. U-Net performed best when trained on the heterogeneous dataset (DS: 0.80 ± 0.10, AHD: 0.39 ± 0.35). ResNet and DenseNet yielded higher DS, when trained on a heterogeneous dataset (both DS: 0.86), as compared to a homogeneous dataset (ResNet DS: 0.83, DenseNet DS: 0.76). In conclusion, a CNN trained on a heterogeneous dataset achieves more accurate labels for predicting a heterogeneous database of lower leg muscles than a CNN trained on a homogenous dataset. We propose that a large heterogeneous database is needed, to make automated segmentation feasible for different kinds of image acquisitions.
Promoting Students’ Perceived Self-Efficacy towards 21st Century Skills through Everyday Life-Related Scenarios
Authors: Semilarski Helen , Soobard Regina , Rannikmäe Miia
Published: September 2021

Interdisciplinary science learning can play a central role in promoting students’ 21st century skills. However, students tend to have low perceived self-efficacy towards 21st century skills, thus limiting the application of their actual scientific competence. This study seeks, based on a 1.5-year intervention study, to promote students’ perceived self-efficacy towards 21st century skills through science learning compared to a non-experimental group. During the intervention, everyday life-related scenarios were utilized, with students guided to create core idea maps. Data on students’ perceived self-efficacy were collected before and after the intervention. Results showed that students’ perceived self-efficacy towards 21st century skills changed in a significantly positively way after the intervention.
Gendered STEM: A Systematic Review and Applied Analysis of Female Participation in STEM in the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Alzaabi Ibrahim , Ramírez-García Antonia , Moyano Manuel
Published: September 2021

The present study aims to identify potential barriers that women in the United Arab Emirates might face if they pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). For this purpose, a systematic review and subsequent applied analysis of the UAE context was developed. The systematic review was reported in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews. The review was performed on EBSCO, ProQuest, Wiley Online Library, Gale, Taylor and Francis Online, SAGE Complete, and JSTOR. The initial database search yielded 168 articles. Following a review of the corresponding abstracts, eight full-text articles that fulfilled the inclusion criteria were selected. The results obtained are discussed in the context of the UAE and help inform policy proposals and future research lines to strengthen the involvement of women in STEM careers. The study found that while women in the UAE have greater access to education in engineering and STEM fields, women’s employment prospects in these sectors remain fraught.
Asymmetric Doherty Power Amplifier with Input Phase/Power Adjustment and Envelope Tracking
Authors: Yang Fei , Li Jun , Yu Hongxi , Yan Sen , Zhang Anxue , Xu Kaida , Jin Zhonghe
Published: September 2021

In this paper, the design and implementation of a Doherty power amplifier (DPA) are proposed using gallium nitride high electron mobility transistors (GaN HEMTs). Class-F and Class-C modes are combined to obtain an asymmetric DPA. The precise active load-pull controlling of fundamental and harmonic terminations of the DPA is simulated and analyzed, including the parasitics of the transistors. The measurements of the DPA with the phase difference, input power ratio adjustment, and envelope tracking of the auxiliary PA are discussed in detail in order to achieve a competitive performance. A greater than 63% drain efficiency is obtained within the 10-dB input power dynamic range at 2.1 GHz. The peak of the drain efficiency reaches 73%, with a corresponding output power of 46 dBm.
Adaptive Impedance-Conditioned Phase-Locked Loop for the VSC Converter Connected to Weak Grid
Authors: Hamood Mostafa A. , Marjanovic Ognjen , Carrasco Joaquin
Published: September 2021

In this paper, an adaptive version of the impedance-conditioned phase-locked loop (IC-PLL), namely the adaptive IC-PLL (AIC-PLL), is proposed. The IC-PLL has recently been proposed to address the issue of synchronisation with a weak AC grid by supplementing the conventional synchronous reference frame phase-locked loop (SRF-PLL) with an additional virtual impedance term. The resulting IC-PLL aims to synchronise the converter to a remote and stronger point in the grid, hence increasing the upper bound on the achievable power transfer achieved by the VSC converter connected to the weak grid. However, the issue of the variable grid strength imposes another challenge in the operation of the IC-PLL. This is because the IC-PLL requires impedance estimation methods to estimate the value of the virtual impedance part. In AIC-PLL, the virtual impedance part is estimated by appending another dynamic loop in the exciting IC-PLL. In this method, an additional closed loop is involved so that the values of the virtual inductance and resistance are internally estimated and adapted. Hence, the VSC converter becomes effectively viable for the case of the grid strength variable, where the estimation of the grid impedance becomes unnecessary. The results show that the converter that relies on AIC-PLL has the ability to transfer power that is approximately equal to the theoretical maximum power while maintaining satisfactory dynamic performance.
Effects of Mechanical Site Preparation, Planting Stock, and Planting Aids on the Survival and Growth of American Sycamore in a Marginal Old Field Riparian Restoration
Authors: Steele Jason K. , Aust Wallace Michael , Seiler John R.
Published: September 2021

Survival and growth of planted tree species are common indices used to evaluate success of wetland restoration efforts used to compensate for wetland losses. Restoration efforts on marginal agricultural lands have typically resulted in less than satisfactory survival and growth of desired tree species. In an attempt to determine the effects of bottomland hardwood silvicultural methods on the survival and growth of pioneer tree species, this study evaluated combinations of five mechanical site-preparation techniques (mound, bed, rip, disk, pit), four levels of planting stock (gallon, tubeling, bare root, and direct seed), and three planting aids (mat, tube, none) on the four-year survival and growth of American sycamore planted in an old field riparian area in the Piedmont of Virginia. After four growing seasons, results indicated that mounding mechanical site preparation combined with gallon (3.8 L) planting stock provided the most positive influences on mean survival (100%), height (4.72 m), and groundline diameter (9.52 cm), and resulted in the greatest aboveground dry biomass accumulation (5.44 Mg/ha/year). These treatments may be economically viable for restoration and mitigations efforts, and could offer other economic alternatives such as short-rotation woody crops, which might make restoration efforts in marginal old field areas more attractive to private landowners.
Dynamics of Nocturnal Evapotranspiration and Its Biophysical Controls over a Desert Shrubland of Northwest China
Authors: Guo Xiaonan , Shang Guofei , Tian Yun , Jia Xin , Zha Tianshan , Li Cheng , Yang Huicai , Zhang Xia
Published: September 2021

Knowledge about the dynamics and biophysical controlling mechanism of nocturnal evapotranspiration (ETN) in desert-dwelling shrub ecosystem is still lacking. Using the eddy covariance measurements of latent heat flux in a dried shrubland in northwest China, we examined the dynamics of ETN and its biophysical controls at multiple timescales during growing-seasons from 2012 to 2014. The ETN was larger in the mid-growing season (usually in mid-summer) than in spring and autumn. The maximum daily ETN was 0.21, 0.17, and 0.14 mm night−1 in years 2012–2014, respectively. At the diel scale, ETN decreased from 21:00 to 5:00, then began to increase. ETN were mainly controlled by soil volumetric water content at 30 cm depth (VWC30), by vapor pressure deficit (VPD) and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) at leaf expanding and expanded stage, and by air temperature (Ta) and wind speed (Ws) at the leaf coloring stage. At the seasonal scale, variations of ETN were mainly driven by Ta, VPD, and VWC10. Averaged annual ETN was 4% of daytime ET. The summer drought in 2013 and the spring drought in 2014 caused the decline of daily evapotranspiration (ET). The present results demonstrated that ETN is a significant part of the water cycle and needs to be seriously considered in ET and related studies. The findings here can help with the sustainable management of water in desert ecosystems undergoing climate change.
Exploring Time-Series Forecasting Models for Dynamic Pricing in Digital Signage Advertising
Authors: Tan Yee-Fan , Ong Lee-Yeng , Leow Meng-Chew , Goh Yee-Xian
Published: September 2021

Audience attention is vital in Digital Signage Advertising (DSA), as it has a significant impact on the pricing decision to advertise on those media. Various environmental factors affect the audience attention level toward advertising signage. Fixed-price strategies, which have been applied in DSA for pricing decisions, are generally inefficient at maximizing the potential profit of the service provider, as the environmental factors that could affect the audience attention are changing fast and are generally not considered in the current pricing solutions in a timely manner. Therefore, the time-series forecasting method is a suitable pricing solution for DSA, as it improves the pricing decision by modeling the changes in the environmental factors and audience attention level toward signage for optimal pricing. However, it is difficult to determine an optimal price forecasting model for DSA with the increasing number of available time-series forecasting models in recent years. Based on the 84 research articles reviewed, the data characteristics analysis in terms of linearity, stationarity, volatility, and dataset size is helpful in determining the optimal model for time-series price forecasting. This paper has reviewed the widely used time-series forecasting models and identified the related data characteristics of each model. A framework is proposed to demonstrate the model selection process for dynamic pricing in DSA based on its data characteristics analysis, paving the way for future research of pricing solutions for DSA.
An Exploratory Study into the Influence of Sex on Body Measurements, Carcass Weights and Meat Yields of Giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis angolensis)
Authors: Silberbauer Bianca L. , Strydom Phillip E. , Hoffman Louwrens C.
Published: September 2021

Various body measurements and commercial carcass yields of relatively young (2½–6 yrs old) giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis angolensis) were investigated to quantify the effect of sex there upon. Eight male and eight female giraffe were culled by standard practice in Namibia, where body and horn measurements were taken, before the carcasses were dressed. There were no significant differences between the mean dead weights of the two sexes (bulls = 691.1 kg; cows = 636.5 kg; p = 0.096), the only body measurements found to differ significantly were those of the forelegs, with the shoulder to hoof (p = 0.046) and the knee to hoof (p = 0.025) both being significantly longer in the bulls. The horn measurements were all found to be significantly larger in the bulls than the cows even at this young age. The neck weight as a percentage of the carcass weight was found to be significantly heavier for the bulls compared to the cows, however, the back percentage values were significantly heavier in the cows than the bulls. There was a strong positive correlation between the body weight and most of the body lengths, as well as between most of the individual body measurements. The giraffe used had an average age of 3.7 years old, and had therefore not yet reached their growth plateau, which may be why sex had no influence on most of the body measurements recorded.
Characterization and Extraction Influence Protein Profiling of Edible Bird’s Nest
Authors: Mohamad Nasir Nurul Nadiah , Mohamad Ibrahim Ramlah , Abu Bakar Md Zuki , Mahmud Rozi , Ab Razak Nor Asma
Published: September 2021

The edible bird nest (EBN) from Aerodramus fuciphagus has been consumed as a Chinese traditional food for health and medicinal purposes due to its elevated nutritional value. The present study focused on the influence of characterization and extraction methods on protein profiling, which could be a guideline for grading the EBN. The proposed extraction method is similar to the common food preparation methods of consumers and thus can accurately establish the bioactive protein available upon human consumption. The characterization includes physicochemical analysis (physical, morphology, elemental composition, and microbial content) and chemical analysis (crude protein and amino acid). The morphology of half-cup EBN was found to be uniformly shaped and rich in calcium as compared to rough surface of stripe-shaped EBN, and there was no significant microbial growth in both types of EBN. The crude protein and amino acid content in half-cup EBN were significantly higher than stripe-shaped EBN. The full stew (FS) and stew (SE) extraction methods produced a maximal yield of soluble protein. Sialic acid content in SE extract (8.47%, w/w) and FS extract (7.91%, w/w) were recorded. About seven parent proteins (39.15 to 181.68 kDa) were identified by LC-MS/MS Q-TOF, namely 78 kDa glucose-regulated protein, lysyl oxidase-3, Mucin-5AC-like, acidic mammalian chitinase-like, 45 kDa calcium-binding protein, nucleobindin-2, and ovoinhibitor-like. In conclusion, the characteristics and extraction methods influence the availability of bioactive protein and peptides, demonstrating the potential usage of EBN in improving its biological activities and nutritional properties.
Determination of Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids in Teas Using Liquid Chromatography–Tandem Mass Spectrometry Combined with Rapid-Easy Extraction
Authors: Kwon Yujihn , Koo Yongeui , Jeong Yoonhwa
Published: September 2021

This study developed an analytical method to determine pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) in teas using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry combined with rapid-easy extraction. PAs were extracted with 40 mL of 0.05 M sulfuric acid in 50% methanol solution and cleaned up using Oasis MCX SPE cartridges. Chromatographic separation of 21 PAs was conducted on an X-Bridge C18 column with gradient elution. According to the AOAC official analysis methods, the developed method was verified to establish linearity, limits of detection, limits of quantification, accuracy, inter-day precision, and intra-day precision for each PA. Overall, the method showed excellent repeatability, sensitivity, and reproducibility. The verified method was applied to tea samples, including maté, lemon balm, fennel, hibiscus, chrysanthemum, lavender, oolong tea, chamomile, rooibos, peppermint, mix tea, black, and green tea. One of the main advantages of the method developed in this study is that it allows complete separation of lycopsamine and intermedine peaks. Therefore, the method could be used to monitor PAs in teas.
Anti-Hyperlipidemia and Gut Microbiota Community Regulation Effects of Selenium-Rich Cordyceps militaris Polysaccharides on the High-Fat Diet-Fed Mice Model
Authors: Yu Minglei , Yue Jin , Hui Nan , Zhi Yuee , Hayat Kashif , Yang Xijia , Zhang Dan , Chu Shaohua , Zhou Pei
Published: September 2021

Supplementation of polysaccharides is a promising gut microbiota-targeted therapeutic method for obesity and metabolic diseases. Biological activities of Cordyceps militaris polysaccharides have been well reported, but the effect of selenium (Se)-rich C. militaris polysaccharides (SeCMP) on obesity and associated metabolic disorder and gut microbiota composition has been rarely studied. This study aimed to investigate the anti-obesity and gut microbiota modulatory effect of crude polysaccharides separated from Se-rich C. militaris on a high-fat diet (HFD)-fed C57BL/6J mice model. Mice were treated with a normal diet (CHOW), HFD alone, HFD plus C. militaris polysaccharides (CMP), or low/medium/high dosage of SeCMP for 8 weeks. Body weight, fat content, serum lipid, appetite hormone, lipid gene expression, inflammation cytokines, thermogenic protein, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and gut microbiota structure of the mice were determined. Compared with HFD-fed mice, the serum triglyceride and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in the SeCMP-200 group were decreased by 51.5% and 44.1%, respectively. Furthermore, serum lipopolysaccharide-binding proteins (LBP), adiponectin level, and pro-inflammation gene expression in the colon and subcutaneous fat were inhibited, whereas anti-inflammation gene expression was improved, reflecting SeCMP-200 might mitigate obese-induced inflammation. Meanwhile, SeCMP-200 promoted satiety and thermogenesis of obese mice. It also significantly decreased gut bacteria, such as Dorea, Lactobacillus, Clostridium, Ruminococcus, that negatively correlated with obesity traits and increased mucosal beneficial bacteria Akkermansia. There was no significant difference between CMP and SeCMP-100 groups. Our results revealed a high dose of SeCMP could prevent HFD-induced dyslipidemia and gut microbiota dysbiosis and was potential to be used as functional foods.
Determination of Technological Parameters and Characterization of Microbiota of the Spontaneous Sourdough Fermentation of Hull-Less Barley
Authors: Reidzane Sanita , Kruma Zanda , Kazantseva Jekaterina , Traksmaa Anna , Klava Dace
Published: September 2021

The development of microorganisms of sourdough and biodiversity of microbiota can be influenced by changing the parameters of the technological process such as the ratio of flour and added water, the fermentation temperature and time. The Box–Behnken design methodology was used to determine the optimal parameters for the three-phase spontaneous backslopping fermentation process of hull-less barley sourdough, as well as to characterize the microbiological diversity. The optimized parameters of backslopping fermentation are flour and water ratio 1:1.13, temperature 30 °C, time 24 h in the 1st backslopping; the inoculate, flour and water ratio 1:1:1.3, temperature 31 °C, time 14 h in the 2nd backslopping, and the inoculate, flour and water ratio 1:1:1.5, and temperature 28.5 °C, time 12 h in the 3rd step of backslopping. In the controlled spontaneous fermentation environment in three backslopping steps, the microbiological research of hull-less barley sourdough has confirmed the dominance of species Pediococcus pentosaceus in the 3rd backslopping step of spontaneous fermentation. The developed spontaneous hull-less barley sourdough is consistent with the number of lactic bacteria and yeasts in line with that seen by the active sourdough.
30 Years of Multifrequency Quasar Variability: A Personal Journey
Authors: Webb James R.
Published: September 2021

I outline the history of and progress in observing and understanding quasar multi-frequency and multi-messenger variability from the point of view of someone who has been working in the field for over 30 years. I will present some important references for the evolution from optical monitoring to multi-frequency cooperative programs that revealed the true multi-frequency/multi-timescale nature of variability in these objects. Quasar observations began with separate radio and optical monitoring programs; then the optical and radio observations w ere combined. This was followed by expanding the analyses to include far IR, UV, X-rays, and finally adding gamma rays. This progression yielded simultaneous multi-frequency spectra of these objects and light curves over 15 decades in frequency. The future is adding particle (neutrino) and gravitational waves to the picture. I also present long-term (50 years) optical light curves, and discuss optical variability at all timescales from minutes to tens of years in some selected objects for which we have reliable long-term monitoring observations.
Role of Digital Health and Artificial Intelligence in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Scoping Review
Authors: Majidova Kamila , Handfield Julia , Kafi Kamran , Martin Ryan D. , Kubinski Ryszard
Published: September 2021

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), subdivided into Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), are chronic diseases that are characterized by relapsing and remitting periods of inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. In recent years, the amount of research surrounding digital health (DH) and artificial intelligence (AI) has increased. The purpose of this scoping review is to explore this growing field of research to summarize the role of DH and AI in the diagnosis, treatment, monitoring and prognosis of IBD. A review of 21 articles revealed the impact of both AI algorithms and DH technologies; AI algorithms can improve diagnostic accuracy, assess disease activity, and predict treatment response based on data modalities such as endoscopic imaging and genetic data. In terms of DH, patients utilizing DH platforms experienced improvements in quality of life, disease literacy, treatment adherence, and medication management. In addition, DH methods can reduce the need for in-person appointments, decreasing the use of healthcare resources without compromising the standard of care. These articles demonstrate preliminary evidence of the potential of DH and AI for improving the management of IBD. However, the majority of these studies were performed in a regulated clinical environment. Therefore, further validation of these results in a real-world environment is required to assess the efficacy of these methods in the general IBD population.
Co-Carriage of Metal and Antibiotic Resistance Genes in Sewage Associated Staphylococci
Authors: Amirsoleimani Atena , Brion Gail , Francois Patrice
Published: September 2021

Controlling spread of resistance genes from wastewater to aquatic systems requires more knowledge on how resistance genes are acquired and transmitted. Whole genomic sequences from sewage-associated staphylococcus isolates (20 S. aureus, 2 Staphylococcus warneri, and 2 Staphylococcus delphini) were analyzed for the presence of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and metal resistance genes (MRGs). Plasmid sequences were identified in each isolate to investigate co-carriage of ARGs and MRGs within. BLASTN analysis showed that 67% of the isolates carried more than one ARG. The carriage of multiple plasmids was observed more in CC5 than CC8 S. aureus strains. Plasmid exchange was observed in all staphylococcus species except the two S. delphini isolates that carried multiple MRGs, no ARGs, and no plasmids. 85% of S. aureus isolates carried the blaZ gene, 76% co-carried blaZ with cadD and cadX, with 62% of these isolates carrying blaZ, cadD, and cadX on the same plasmid. The co-carriage of ARGs and MRGs in S. warneri isolates, and carriage of MRGs in S. delphini, without plasmids suggests non-conjugative transmission routes for gene acquisition. More studies are required that focus on the transduction and transformation routes of transmission to prevent interspecies exchange of ARGs and MRGs in sewage-associated systems.
Home and Away: The Role of Non-Coding RNA in Intracellular and Intercellular DNA Damage Response
Authors: Shaw Annabelle , Gullerova Monika
Published: September 2021

Non-coding RNA (ncRNA) has recently emerged as a vital component of the DNA damage response (DDR), which was previously believed to be solely regulated by proteins. Many species of ncRNA can directly or indirectly influence DDR and enhance DNA repair, particularly in response to double-strand DNA breaks, which may hold therapeutic potential in the context of cancer. These include long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), microRNA, damage-induced lncRNA, DNA damage response small RNA, and DNA:RNA hybrid structures, which can be categorised as cis or trans based on the location of their synthesis relative to DNA damage sites. Mechanisms of RNA-dependent DDR include the recruitment or scaffolding of repair factors at DNA break sites, the regulation of repair factor expression, and the stabilisation of repair intermediates. DDR can also be communicated intercellularly via exosomes, leading to bystander responses in healthy neighbour cells to generate a population-wide response to damage. Many microRNA species have been directly implicated in the propagation of bystander DNA damage, autophagy, and radioresistance, which may prove significant for enhancing cancer treatment via radiotherapy. Here, we review recent developments centred around ncRNA and their contributions to intracellular and intercellular DDR mechanisms.
Chronic Granulomatous Disease and Myelodysplastic Syndrome in a Patient with a Novel Mutation in CYBB
Authors: Reis Bárbara C. S. , Cunha Daniela P. , Bueno Ana Paula S. , Carvalho Flavia A. A. , Dutra Juliana , Mello Fabiana V. , Ribeiro Maria Cecília Menks , Milito Cristiane B. , da Costa Elaine Sobral , Vasconcelos Zilton
Published: September 2021

Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD) is an inborn error of immunity characterized by impaired phagocyte function, recurrent fungal and bacterial infections and granuloma formation in multiple organs. Pediatric myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) is a rare hematological stem cell disease that leads to an ineffective hematopoiesis with variable risk of evolution to acute leukemias. Both disorders are rare and have distinct pathophysiologic mechanisms, with no known association. A 7-month-old boy presenting with recurrent infections and anemia at age 2 months underwent immunological, hematological and genetic investigation that culminated in the diagnosis of both CGD and MDS. Next generation sequencing was performed and identified a silent variant predicted as of Uncertain Significance, located in the splicing site at the end of exon 5 in CYBB. CYBB variants account for at least two thirds of CGD cases, but no previous descriptions of this variant were found in ClinVar or The Human Gene Mutation Database (HGMD) databases. We were able to demonstrate an exon 5 skipping on the proband’s cDNA, which strongly suggests the disruption of the NADPH oxidase complex, abrogating the formation of reactive oxygen species from neutrophils. Moreover, erythroid cell lineage could be also affected by NADPH oxidase complex damages. Further investigation is needed to evaluate the potential effect of CYBB gene alterations in hematopoiesis, as well as in MDS and CGD association.
Expression of Cytokine-Coding Genes BMP8B, LEFTY1 and INSL5 Could Distinguish between Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Skok Daša Jevšinek , Hauptman Nina , Jerala Miha , Zidar Nina
Published: September 2021

Ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease (CD) are characterized by an imbalance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines, interfering with the resolution of inflammation. Due to the crucial role of cytokines, new insights into their profiles in UC and CD would help to improve our understanding of pathogenesis and enable the development of new treatment modalities. We provide an expression profile of cytokines in UC and CD, using bioinformatics approach, and experimental validation of expression of the selected genes. We retrieved data and analyzed the cytokine gene expression profiles of UC and CD. From ten genes with inverse expression, common to CD and UC, BMP8B, LEFTY1 and INSL5 were selected for gene expression experimental validation. Experimentally, BMP8B and INSL5 were down-regulated in both CD and UC but followed the bioinformatics trend. The expression of genes LEFTY1 and BMP8B was statistically significant when comparing UC and CD in colon and the expression of gene LEFTY1 showed statistical significance when CD in ileum and colon were compared. Using the bioinformatics approach and experimental validation, we found differences in expression profiles between UC and CD for INSL5, LEFTY1 and BMP8B. These three promising candidate genes need to be further explored at different levels, such as DNA methylation and protein expression, to provide more evidence on their potential diagnostic role in CD and UC.
A SNP Mutation in Homeodomain-DDT (HD-DDT) Transcription Factor Results in Multiple Trichomes (mt) in Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.)
Authors: Yang Zhige , Song Mengfei , Cheng Feng , Zhang Mengru , Davoudi Marzieh , Chen Jinfeng , Lou Qunfeng
Published: September 2021

Trichome is a natural physical barrier protecting plants against environmental stresses, natural infestations, ultraviolet rays and pathogenicity. Trichome also helps plants in maintaining appropriate water content by reducing transpiration rate. The molecular mechanism regulating unicellular trichome development in Arabidopsis has been extensively elucidated, but the molecular mechanism regulating multicellular trichome development remains unclear. In this study, we identified a multiple trichomes (mt) mutant from a cucumber EMS (Ethylmethylsulfone) mutagenesis population. Genetic analysis indicated that an incomplete dominant gene controls the mt trait. Using a combination of map-based cloning and BSA-seq (Bulked Segregant Analysis -Sequencing), we identified the candidate gene, CsaV3_6G050410, responsible for the mt mutation. Sequence alignment revealed one base substitution in gene CsaV3_6G050410, resulting in an amino acid substitution. The deduced amino acid sequence of CsaV3_6G050410 encodes a HD-DDT (homeodomain-DDT) transcriptional regulatory protein containing a conserved homeobox domain and a DDT domain. Gene expression analysis revealed that the expression level of CsaV3_6G050410 in the mt mutant was similar to that in the WT (wild type). Transcriptome analysis indicated that the mt gene may regulate the development of the epidermis by influencing plant hormone signaling pathways or participating in several transcription factor pathways. The results of this study are fundamental for a better understanding of the function of the HD-DDT transcription factor in the trichome development of cucumber.
Editorial for Special Issue “Applications of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Geotechnical Engineering”
Authors: Jaksa Mark , Liu Zhongqiang
Published: September 2021

Since its inception in the mid-1950s [...]
Tracing δ18O and δ2H in Source Waters and Recharge Pathways of a Fractured-Basalt and Interbedded-Sediment Aquifer, Columbia River Flood Basalt Province
Authors: Behrens David , Langman Jeff B. , Brooks Erin S. , Boll Jan , Waynant Kristopher , Moberly James G. , Dodd Jennifer K. , Dodd John W.
Published: September 2021

The heterogeneity and anisotropy of fractured-rock aquifers, such as those in the Columbia River Basalt Province, present challenges for determining groundwater recharge. The entrance of recharge to the fractured-basalt and interbedded-sediment aquifer in the Palouse region of north-central Idaho is not well understood because of successive basalt flows that act as restrictive barriers. It was hypothesized that a primary recharge zone exists along the basin’s eastern margin at a mountain-front interface where eroded sediments form a more conductive zone for recharge. Potential source waters and groundwater were analyzed for δ18O and δ2H to discriminate recharge sources and pathways. Snowpack values ranged from −22 to −12‰ for δ18O and from −160 to −90‰ for δ2H and produced spring-time snowmelt ranging from −16.5 to −12‰ for δ18O and from −120 to −90‰ for δ2H. With the transition of snowmelt to spring-time ephemeral creeks, the isotope values compressed to −16 and −14‰ for δ18O and −110 and −105‰ for δ2H. A greater range of values was present for a perennial creek (−18 to −13.5‰ for δ18O and −125 to −98‰ for δ2H) and groundwater (−17.5 to −13‰ for δ18O and −132 to −105‰ for δ2H), which reflect a mixing of seasonal signals and the varying influence of vapor sources and sublimation/evaporation. Inverse modeling and the evaluation of matrix characteristics indicate conductive pathways associated with paleochannels and deeper pathways along the mountain-front interface. Depleted isotope signals indicate quicker infiltration and recharge pathways that were separate from, or had limited mixing with, more evaporated water that infiltrated after greater time/travel at the surface.
Prevalence and Risk Factors of Self-Reported Perfume Sensitivity in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alrasheed Meshael , Albalawi Omar , Aljallal Mohammed , Alqahtani Amani S.
Published: September 2021

Perfumes are widely used products; however, several fragrance substances used in perfuming are well-established allergenic substances and have been attributed to various adverse health reactions. The nature and significance of perfume sensitivity reactions have not been thoroughly investigated. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the prevalence, nature, and associated risk factors of self-reported perfume sensitivity among the general population in Saudi Arabia. A nationally representative cross-sectional study was conducted among adults in Saudi Arabia in October 2020. Significant associated risk factors were explored using multivariate regression analyses. A total of 1078 participants completed the survey, with a mean age of 36.7 years (SD ± 10.36). Perfume sensitivity reactions were reported in 14.6% of participants. From among these participants, 17.8% reported moderate to severe reactions. Respiratory and skin symptoms were the most reported reactions, with total rates of 40.1% and 35.7%, respectively. History of asthma (OR = 3.2, 95%CI 1.88–4.37, p < 0.001) and the use of counterfeit perfume products (OR = 1.9, 95%CI 1.23–2.94, p < 0.003) were significantly associated with a higher risk of perfume sensitivity. Our study revealed that a considerable number of the general population in Saudi Arabia has experienced adverse health reactions due to perfume products. The enormous volume of the perfume market thus necessitates further quantitative analysis studies to determine the presence of allergenic fragrance substances in perfumes.
Factors Associated with Cigarette, E-Cigarette, and Dual Use among South Korean Adolescents
Authors: Cho Myong Sun
Published: September 2021

Dual use of e-cigarettes and cigarettes has become common among Korean adolescents but has decreased among adults. Dual use refers to using two tobacco products; however, in this study, it is defined as using both e-cigarettes and cigarettes. We assessed the prevalence of dual use among Korean adolescents and its relationship with socio-demographic, smoking-related characteristics, and other risk behaviors. The 2019 Korea Youth Risk Behavior Survey’s data on 57,303 adolescents were analyzed using logistic regression. Overall, 13.8% had recently (in the past 30 days), used some type of cigarette, 3.3% were dual users, 3.4% exclusively smoked conventional cigarettes, and 0.6% exclusively vaped e-cigarettes. After adjusting for socio-demographic and psychological factors, substance use, smoking initiation by 13 years, secondhand smoke in school and public, and amount of cigarette consumption proved significant for all cigarette user types. Dual use was strongly associated with younger age (≤15 years), cigarette smoking initiation before 13 years, secondhand smoke exposure at school, and heavy cigarette smoking. Limited smoking cessation attempts, secondhand smoke exposure in public, and ease of cigarette purchases decrease the odds of adolescents becoming dual users. Thus, surveillance and enforcement of the juvenile protection measures need updating to prevent a shift into dual use.
Understanding the Impacts of the October 2017 Portugal Wildfires on Cultural Heritage
Authors: Figueiredo Rui , Paupério Esmeralda , Romão Xavier
Published: September 2021

In a changing world where the frequency of natural hazards is increasing, the consequences of disasters on cultural heritage assets are still not well understood. This can be attributed to shortcomings in existing risk management practices and to the fact that disaster consequences in the cultural sector are seldom recorded in a structured manner. On 15 October 2017, an extreme wildfire event took place in Portugal, causing significant human and material losses. However, little information is available about its impacts on cultural heritage. This article describes a study that was carried out to identify cultural heritage assets affected by the event in inland central Portugal, and the types of impacts that they withstood, based on local information collected from a sample of municipalities estimated to have been the most affected. The municipalities were selected based on a geospatial analysis supported by maps of estimated burnt areas and national datasets of cultural heritage. The information provided by the municipalities is comprehensively reported and discussed. Although the consequences of the wildfires on cultural heritage were not particularly severe, relevant direct and indirect damage occurred, and further indirect consequences may arise in the future as a result of the event. Improved knowledge and awareness regarding wildfire risk management for cultural heritage assets, supported by research initiatives such the one presented here, are called for.
Heat Stress at Early Reproductive Stage Differentially Alters Several Physiological and Biochemical Traits of Three Tomato Cultivars
Authors: Haque Md. Sabibul , Husna Mst. Tanziatul , Uddin Md. Nesar , Hossain Md. Alamgir , Sarwar Abul Khayer Mohammad Golam , Ali Omar M. , Abdel Latef Arafat Abdel Hamed , Hossain Akbar
Published: September 2021

Global warming is predicted to be increased in the upcoming years, resulting in frequent heatwaves or hot days worldwide, which can seriously affect crop growth and productivity. The responses of heat stress to several photophysiological and biochemical traits in three tomato cultivars were investigated in a pot experiment, and the heat tolerance capability of these cultivars was evaluated based on the investigated traits. The experiment was followed by a factorial completely randomized design, and the factors were (i) tomato cultivars (BARI Hybrid Tomato-5, BARI Tomato-14, and BARI Tomato-15) and (ii) heat stress (control and heat). The plants of three tomato cultivars were exposed to short-term heat stress (four days at 38/25 °C day/night temperature) at the flowering stage. The measured traits such as dry mass, leaf greenness (SPAD), maximum photochemical efficiency of photosystem II (Fv/Fm), photosynthetic rate (A), stomatal conductance (gs), transpiration rate (E), leaf chlorophyll, and carotenoid content were significantly declined, while the catalase and ascorbate peroxidase activities were increased by heat stress in all three tomato cultivars except BARI Tomato-15, which showed unaltered gs, E, and carotenoids. The percent reduction (over control) in SPAD, Fv/Fm, A, total chlorophyll, and total carotenoids was significantly lower (11, 06, 25, 34, and 19%, respectively), whereas the percent increase in catalase and ascorbate peroxidase activities was substantially higher (70 and 72%, respectively) in BARI Tomato-15 than in other cultivars. Based on the measured physiological and biochemical traits, the cultivar BARI Tomato-15 showed better heat tolerance than the other cultivars.
Effects of Interval Flooding Stress on Physiological Characteristics of Apple Leaves
Authors: Zhou Pengyu , Qian Ji , Yuan Weidong , Yang Xin , Di Bao , Meng Yu , Shao Jianzhu
Published: September 2021

As a result of the continuous global warming in recent years, the average annual number of rain days in China has been on the decline, while the number of rainstorm days has gradually increased. These conditions make it extremely easy to form a waterlogging environment, which has an adverse impact on plant growth and development. In many apple-producing areas in China, apples are subject to severe flooding during planting. In this study, two-year-old apple rootstock M9T337 was used to explore the effects of interval water stress on the morphological and physiological parameters of apple leaves. The purpose was to determine the plant’s adaptability to waterlogged environments and provide theoretical reference for management and maintenance after waterlogging. The results showed that the effect on flooded (T2) on apple stock was greater than that of waterlogged (T1), Short-term (7 d) waterlogging (T1) did not affect the growth of seedlings but was conducive to the accumulation of dry matter. Furthermore, the initial stress was be imprinted on the plants, which could directly affect their response to later stress. The results of principal component analysis (PCA) revealed that PC1, PC2, and PC3 explained 26.92%, 17.46%, and 13.03% of the physiological changes under water stress, respectively. By calculating the weight of each indicator, we concluded that high-frequency resistance r, relative chlorophyll content (SPAD) and maximum photochemical efficiency Fv/Fm are important parameters for apple rootstocks affected by water stress.
Prospects of Nanotechnology in Improving the Productivity and Quality of Horticultural Crops
Authors: Rana Ruhul , Siddiqui Md. , Skalicky Milan , Brestic Marian , Hossain Akbar , Kayesh Emrul , Popov Marek , Hejnak Vaclav , Gupta Dipali , Mahmud Nur , Islam Tofazzal
Published: September 2021

Nanotechnology shows high promise in the improvement of agricultural productivity thus aiding future food security. In horticulture, maintaining quality as well as limiting the spoilage of harvested fruit and vegetables is a very challenging task. Various kinds of nanomaterials have shown high potential for increasing productivity, enhancing shelf-life, reducing post-harvest damage and improving the quality of horticultural crops. Antimicrobial nanomaterials as nanofilm on harvested products and/or on packaging materials are suitable for the storage and transportation of vegetables and fruits. Nanomaterials also increase the vitality of the cut flower. Nanofertilizers are target-specific, slow releasing and highly efficient in increasing vegetative growth, pollination and fertility in flowers, resulting in increased yield and improved product quality for fruit trees and vegetables. Formulated nanopesticides are target-specific, eco-friendly and highly efficient. Nanosensors facilitate up-to-date monitoring of growth, plant disease, and pest attack in crop plants under field conditions. These novel sensors are used to precisely identify the soil moisture, humidity, population of crop pests, pesticide residues and figure out nutrient requirements. This review aimed to provide an update on the recent advancement of nanomaterials and their potential uses for enhancing productivity, quality of products, protection from pests and reduction of the postharvest losses of the horticultural crops. This study reveals that nanotechnology could be used to generate cutting-edge techniques towards promoting productivity and quality of horticultural crops to ensure food and nutritional security of ever-increasing population of the world.
Effects of Fertilizer Source and Rate on Zinnia Cut Flower Production in a High Tunnel
Authors: Bi Guihong , Li Tongyin , Gu Mengmeng , Evans William B. , Williams Mark
Published: September 2021

Sustainable nutrient management in high tunnel production is critical for optimizing crop yield and quality and improving soil health. In this study, we investigated the influence of different pre-plant composts (composted broiler litter, vemicompost, and cotton gin compost) in combination with different rates of organic or conventional fertilizer on zinnia plant growth, marketable yield of cut flower stems (>30 cm), and soil nutrients in a high tunnel over two years. Results showed that in general, pre-plant compost influenced plant growth, and plants that received composted broiler litter had the highest plant growth index. However, pre-plant compost did not affect the number of marketable cut stems. Fertigation during the growing season influenced the number of marketable cut stems. Comparable rates of nitrogen, from either organic or conventional fertilizer, produced similar numbers of marketable stems, suggesting that the organic fertilizer used in this study can be used as a fertilizer source for the production of zinnia cut flowers. After two years of production under the high tunnel, soil-extractable phosphorus, sodium, zinc, and pH significantly increased, suggesting that salt accumulation should be closely monitored in response to different compost or fertilizer sources with long-term production under high tunnels.
Towards a Capture and Reuse Model for Aquaculture Effluent as a Hydroponic Nutrient Solution Using Aerobic Microbial Reactors
Authors: Tetreault Joseph , Fogle Rachel , Guerdat Todd
Published: September 2021

Controlled environment agriculture (CEA) technologies are required to meet current and future food production demand as the global population rises, arable land decreases, and minerals for fertilizer production are depleted. Hydroponics and recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) are intensive production methods that can provide season-independent vegetables and seafood in urban settings but are limited by a reliance on fertilizing solutions made from finite mineral reserves and the treatment and disposal costs of nutrient rich effluent, respectively. The development of a capture and reuse system where RAS effluent is solubilized to become plant-available and utilized as a hydroponic nutrient solution would aid both industries and increase food security in urban food deserts. Aerobic mineralization is used in domestic wastewater treatment to reduce solid content and solubilize particulate-bound nutrients. Preliminary studies have also shown that aerobic mineralization can be an effective method for RAS effluent treatment. Aerobic batch reactors were used to mineralize RAS effluent in this study. Suspended solids reduction achieved in the reactors was measured throughout the experiment and the plant-availability of twelve nutrients was determined before and after treatment. It was shown that aerobic mineralization can effectively reduce particulate-bound solids and solubilize nutrients to increase plant utilization in RAS effluent.