bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differences in the Efficiency of the Vertical Transfer of Windblown Sediment over Different Ploughed Surfaces during Wind Erosion Events
Authors: Labiadh Mohamed Taieb , Bergametti Gilles , Rajot Jean Louis , Bouet Christel , Ltifi Mohsen , Sekrafi Saâd , Henry des Tureaux Thierry
Published: May 2021

Airborne sediment fluxes were measured in southern Tunisia on two experimental plots tilled with a moldboard and a tiller plough, respectively, during five wind erosion events of different intensities. The sediment fluxes were sampled on both plots using a mast equipped with seven sand traps positioned between ≈10 and 120 cm height. The windblown sediment fluxes in the 0–100 cm layer were about eight times higher on the plot tilled using the tiller plough compared to the plot tilled using the moldboard plough due to different efficiencies in the trapping of the saltating particles in the furrow, depending on the ridges characteristics. On both plots, sediment fluxes of larger particles were depleted in the sediment samplers compared to the proportions measured in the soil from which they were derived. When examining the sediment flux in the 30–100 cm layer, we observed that the efficiency of the vertical transfer was about twice higher on the moldboard plot than on the tiller one. This implies that a higher fraction of the sediment mobilized by wind can be transported over long distances in the case of a surface ploughed with a moldboard. This result could reduce in part the benefit of using the moldboard instead of the tiller plough regarding soil loss by wind erosion.
Evaluating the Russian Language Proficiency of Bilingual and Second Language Learners of Russian
Authors: Luchkina Tatiana , Ionin Tania , Lysenko Natalia , Stoops Anastasia , Suvorkina Nadezhda
Published: May 2021

The starting point of most experimental and clinical examinations of bilingual language development is the choice of the measure of participants’ proficiency, which affects the interpretation of experimental findings and has pedagogical and clinical implications. Recent work on heritage and L2 acquisition of Russian used varying proficiency assessment tools, including elicited production, vocabulary recognition, and in-house measures. Using such different approaches to proficiency assessment is problematic if one seeks a coherent vision of bilingual speaker competence at different acquisition stages. The aim of the present study is to provide a suite of validated bilingual assessment materials designed to evaluate the language proficiency speakers of Russian as a second or heritage language. The materials include an adaptation of a normed language background questionnaire (Leap-Q), a battery of participant-reported proficiency measures, and a normed cloze deletion test. We offer two response formats in combination with two distinct scoring methods in order to make the testing materials suited for bilingual Russian speakers who self-assess as (semi-) proficient as well as for those whose bilingualism is incipient, or declining due to language attrition. Data from 52 baseline speakers and 503 speakers of Russian who reported dominant proficiency in a different language are analyzed for test validation purposes. Obtained measures of internal and external validity provide evidence that the cloze deletion test reported in this study reliably discriminates between dissimilar target language attainment levels in diverse populations of bilingual and multilingual Russian speakers.
An Identification Method for Orifice-Type Restrictors Based on the Closed-Form Solution of Reynolds Equation
Authors: Colombo Federico , Lentini Luigi , Raparelli Terenziano , Trivella Andrea , Viktorov Vladimir
Published: May 2021

Even though the behavior of aerostatic bearings has for long been the topic of extensive research, there are still many aspects that require further investigation. Among these, the identification of the discharge coefficients is one the most crucial. This paper presents a hybrid method to identify the discharge coefficients of aerostatic bearing orifices. The method is termed as hybrid since it exploits experimental data and the equations of the analytical model of a circular and centrally fed aerostatic pad. The obtained results demonstrate the accuracy of the method. The proposed method further offers practical advantages compared to the conventional methods.
Healing of Post-Extraction Sockets Filled with Anorganic Bovine Bone and Covered with a Xenogeneic Collagen Matrix. Radiological 2D and 3D Results of a Pilot Study to Assess Dimensional Stability
Authors: Testori Tiziano , Deflorian Matteo Antonio , Mandelli Federico , Attardo Giulia , Maiorana Carlo , Del Fabbro Massimo , Vinci Raffaele
Published: May 2021

Analysis of short-term results regarding dimensional stability of post-extraction sockets managed via a preservation protocol using deproteinized bovine bone matrix and a xenogeneic collagen matrix. Materials and methods Fifteen patients needing extraction of one single-rooted premolar tooth were treated in a pilot study. Five patients were treated in each centre. After tooth extraction, sockets were filled with anorganic bovine bone matrix and covered with a xenogeneic collagen matrix. Six months later, implants were placed. Dimensional changes in the treated sites were digitally evaluated using the best-fit superimposition of pre-and post-socket preservation models. Results After six months of healing, the vertical reduction of the grafted sites was 0.31 ± 0.24 mm (p < 0.001). Volumetric analysis of superimposed models showed an average palatal-lingual contraction of 0.33 ± 0.51 mm3 (p = 0.02). At the vestibular level, the average contraction was found to be 0.8 ± 0.3 mm3 (p < 0.001). Finally, the analysis of linear variations in the treated sites on a single sagittal section at the crystal level, and at 3 and 7 mm apically respect to the crest, both towards the vestibule and palate, generally showed more marked resorption at the crestal level compared to apical measurements. Conclusion: The clinical protocol herein employed for socket preservation showed a positive effect in preventing the physiological post-extraction remodeling.
Concrete Tank Failure as the Result of Implementing Wrong Boundary Conditions for Wall Support—Case Study
Authors: Drobiec Łukasz , Gierczak Jan , Ignatowicz Rajmund , Kozioł Piotr , Nowak Tomasz
Published: May 2021

Damage to large reinforced concrete structures is rarely due to design errors. Sometimes, however, a small error can lead to major damage and costly repairs. The article describes the damage, the results of non-destructive and destructive tests, the results of numerical calculations, and the method of repairing a reinforced concrete tank in a sewage treatment plant. The failure was caused by applying the wrong boundary conditions to the reinforced concrete wall support inside an existing biological reactor. During leak testing, one of the new walls cracked and was displaced, which resulted in the tank leaking. An inspection of wall damage and displacement was carried out on termination of the leak testing and while the tank was draining. The causes of the failure were determined based on the inventory information and numerical simulations. Both non-destructive tests of reinforcement and concrete and destructive tests of concrete were carried out. The concrete class of the foundation slab was determined based on a compression test of sample cores obtained from drilling. The aim of the non-destructive tests was to indicate the location and diameter of reinforcement in the damaged wall using electromagnetic and radar methods, as well as the location of internal defects using ultrasonic and radar methods. It was found out that the failure was a result of an incorrect determination of the anchoring length of the reinforcement. Based on the analysis, a plan to repair the damaged wall was formulated and then successfully implemented. In the article the authors proposed the IVD (identification-verification-design) scheme to make the design easier in similar cases.
The Using of Concrete Wash Water from Ready Mixed Concrete Plants in Cement Systems
Authors: Vaičiukynienė Danutė , Kantautas Aras , Tučkutė Simona , Manhanga Fallon , Janavičius Eugenijus , Ivanauskas Ernestas , Rudžionis Žymantas , Gaudutis Aloyzas
Published: May 2021

Concrete plants accumulate large amounts of concrete wash water. This water, which pH is highly alkaline, has a negative impact on the environment. Its reuse in fresh concrete slightly reduces its mechanical properties. The combination of concrete wash water and zeolitic by-product led to an increase of 4.6% in the compressive strength at 7 days hydration and up to 30% at 28 days hydration. The same combination led to the denser microstructure compared to the samples made with concrete wash water. This could be explained by the pozzolanic reaction of the zeolitic by-product. The complex chemical reactions of cement, zeolitic by-product, and fines presented in the concrete wash water occurred. Therefore, it was suggested the reusing method of concrete wash water together with zeolitic by-product in the fresh concrete mixtures by substituting some amount of tap water with concrete wash water. In this way, the consumption of tap water is possible to reduce in cement systems.
Experimental Wear Behavior Analysis of Coated Spindle Hook Teeth under Real Harvesting Work Conditions
Authors: Gu Yanqing , Zhang Hongwen , Fu Xiuqing , Wang Lei , Shen Zhenyu , Wang Jun , Song Zhaoyang , Zhang Longchang
Published: May 2021

This study aimed to investigate the wear failure changes of spindle hook teeth and the reasons for such failure during field work. Spindle samples were obtained from a fixed position of the spindle bar under different field picking area conditions and combined with the spatial distribution characteristics of cotton bolls in Xinjiang. After cutting a spindle sample, a scanning electron microscope and an energy spectrum analyzer were used to characterize the micromorphology and element composition of the hook tooth surface and cross section under different working area conditions. The wear parameters of the hook teeth were then extracted. The results showed that the thickness of the coating on the surface of the hook tooth used in this study was between 66.1 µm and 74.4 µm. The major chemical element was chromium, with a small amount of nickel. During the field picking process, failure of the coating on the surface of the hook teeth initially appeared on the tooth tip and tooth edge, and then spread to the entire hook tooth surface. The wear failure of the hook teeth resulted from abrasive wear, oxidative wear, and fatigue peeling. As the picking area increased, the wear area of the hook teeth increased exponentially, while the wear width increased linearly. When the field picking area reached 533.33 ha, the maximum change rate of the wear area was 2.33 × 103 µm2/ha, and the wear width was 1.84 µm/ha. During field work, the thickness of the coating decreased from the cutting surface to the tooth edge, and the wear rate gradually increased. The wear rate at Position 1 was the slowest, at 0.01 µm/ha, and the wear rate at Position 5 was the fastest, at 0.25 µm/ha.
SiCaSMA: An Alternative Stochastic Description via Concatenation of Markov Processes for a Class of Catalytic Systems
Authors: Wagner Vincent , Radde Nicole Erika
Published: May 2021

The Chemical Master Equation is a standard approach to model biochemical reaction networks. It consists of a system of linear differential equations, in which each state corresponds to a possible configuration of the reaction system, and the solution describes a time-dependent probability distribution over all configurations. The Stochastic Simulation Algorithm (SSA) is a method to simulate sample paths from this stochastic process. Both approaches are only applicable for small systems, characterized by few reactions and small numbers of molecules. For larger systems, the CME is computationally intractable due to a large number of possible configurations, and the SSA suffers from large reaction propensities. In our study, we focus on catalytic reaction systems, in which substrates are converted by catalytic molecules. We present an alternative description of these systems, called SiCaSMA, in which the full system is subdivided into smaller subsystems with one catalyst molecule each. These single catalyst subsystems can be analyzed individually, and their solutions are concatenated to give the solution of the full system. We show the validity of our approach by applying it to two test-bed reaction systems, a reversible switch of a molecule and methyltransferase-mediated DNA methylation.
Time Series Forecasting for Wind Energy Systems Based on High Order Neural Networks
Authors: Alanis Alma Y. , Sanchez Oscar D. , Alvarez Jesus G.
Published: May 2021

Wind energy is one of the most promising alternatives as energy sources; however, to obtain the best results, producers need to forecast the wind speed, generated power and energy price in order to provide the appropriate tools for optimal operation, planning, control and marketing both for isolated wind systems and for those that are interconnected to a main distribution network. For the present work, a novel methodology is proposed for the forecasting of time series in wind energy systems; it consists of a high-order neural network that is trained on-line by the extended Kalman filter algorithm. Unlike most modern artificial intelligence methods of forecasting, which are based on hybridizations, data pre-filtering or deep learning methods, the proposed method is based on the simplicity of implementation, low computational complexity and real-time operation to produce 15-step-ahead forecasting in a time series of wind speed, generated power and energy price. The proposed scheme has been evaluated using real data from open access repositories of wind farms. The results show that an on-line training of the neural network produces high precision, without the need for any other information beyond a few past observations.
Developing a Novel Fuzzy Evaluation Model by One-Sided Specification Capability Indices
Authors: Lo Wei , Yang Chun-Ming , Lai Kuei-Kuei , Li Shao-Yu , Chen Chi-Han
Published: May 2021

When all of the one-sided specification indices of each quality characteristic reach the requirements of the process quality level, they can ensure that the process capability of the product meets the requirements of the process quality level. This study constructs a fuzzy membership function based on the upper confidence limit of the index, derives the fuzzy critical value, and then labels the fuzzy critical value on the axis of the visualized radar chart as well as connects adjacent critical points to shape a regular polygonal critical region. Next, this study calculates the observed value of the index to estimate and mark it on the axis for forming a visualized fuzzy radar evaluation chart. Obviously, this fuzzy evaluation model not only reduces the testing cost but also makes the quality level quickly meet the requirements of the specifications. Further, the radar chart can reduce the risk of misjudgment attributable to sampling errors and help improve the accuracy of evaluation by a confidence-upper-limit-based fuzzy evaluation model. Therefore, this easy-to-use visualized fuzzy radar evaluation chart is used as an evaluation interface, which has good and convenient management performance to identify and improve critical-to-quality quickly. Improving the quality of the process before the product is completed will also have the advantage of reducing social losses and environmental damage costs.
Osteoid Osteoma Treatment with Microwave Ablation: A Report of Two Cases
Authors: Westlake Babe , Mazzi Jessica , Tedesco Nicholas
Published: May 2021

Osteoid osteomas are one of the most common bone tumors. Although benign in nature, they can cause significant pain and distress to the afflicted patient. The main goal of treatment is to relieve pain. Historically, these tumors were treated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or surgery. Percutaneous ablative techniques have since gained popularity because of their efficacy and low risk profiles. Radiofrequency ablation was the first of these technologies used in the treatment of these tumors. More recently, microwave ablation has gained popularity. However, the literature is sparse regarding the safety and efficacy of this treatment. Here, we discuss our experience with microwave ablation in the treatment of osteoid osteomas in two patients and review the current literature on this technique. Microwave ablation in the treatment of osteoid osteoma seems to be a safe and effective treatment for this tumor.
Psoas Muscle Index Defined by Computer Tomography Predicts the Presence of Postoperative Complications in Colorectal Cancer Surgery
Authors: Benedek Zalán , Todor-Boér Szabolcs , Kocsis Loránd , Bauer Orsolya , Suciu Nicolae , Coroș Marius Florin
Published: May 2021

Background and Objectives: Sarcopenia is a recognized prognostic factor for both complications and survival in cancer patients. This study aims to analyze the relationship between sarcopenia measured by psoas muscle index on computer tomography scans and the presence of postoperative complications in colorectal cancer surgery. Materials and Methods: In a prospective study we recorded data from 51 patients who underwent colorectal cancer surgery in the Mures County Clinical Hospital, Romania. Total psoas muscle area and psoas density were measured at the level of the third lumbal vertebra (L3) for further index calculation. We also evaluated the general characteristics and laboratory analyses to obtain more information about status of the patients. Short-term postoperative complications were scored according to the Clavien-Dindo classification. Results: The majority of the 51 patients were male (61%) and the median age was 65 years. More than half of the cancer was located in the rectum (56.9%), a quarter in the right colon (25.5%), the rest in the sigmoid (11.8%), and the left colon (5.9%). Twenty-one patients (41.2%) developed a complication, five (9.8%) of these were Clavien-Dindo grade 3, 4 or 5 (high grade) and sixteen (31.3%) grade 1 or 2 (low grade). The low- and high-grade groups showed a significantly lower right psoas muscle area, left psoas muscle area, total psoas muscle area, and psoas muscle index (p < 0.001 in all cases). Among laboratory analyses, a significantly lower perioperative hematocrit, hemoglobin, and albumin level were found in patients who developed complications. Furthermore we observed that an elevated serum C-reactive protein level was associated with a higher grade of complication (p < 0.043). Conclusions: The psoas muscle index (PMI) influence on the postoperative outcome is an important factor in our single center prospective study and it appears to be a good overall predictor in colorectal surgery. A lower PMI is directly associated with a low or high grade complication by Clavien-Dindo classification. Perioperative inflammatory and nutritional status evidenced by serum C-reactive protein (CRP) and albumin level influences the presence of postoperative complications.
Pancreatic Disorders in Children with Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Jakimiec Piotr , Zdanowicz Katarzyna , Kwiatek-Sredzinska Kamila , Filimoniuk Aleksandra , Lebensztejn Dariusz , Daniluk Urszula
Published: May 2021

Background and Objectives: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic condition and mainly affects the intestines, however, the involvement of the other organs of the gastrointestinal tract (upper part, pancreas, and liver) have been observed. The coexistence of IBD with pancreatic pathology is rare, however, it has been diagnosed more frequently during recent years in the pediatric population. This article reviews the current literature on the most common pancreatic diseases associated with IBD in the pediatric population and their relationship with IBD activity and treatment. Materials and Methods: We performed a systematic review of data from published studies on pancreatic disorders, also reported as extraintestinal manifestations (EIMs), among children with IBD. We searched PubMed and Web of Science to identify eligible studies published prior to 25 April 2020. Results: Forty-four papers were chosen for analysis after a detailed inspection, which aimed to keep only the research studies (case control studies and cohort studies) or case reports on children and only those which were written in English. The manifestations of IBD-associated pancreatic disorders range from asymptomatic increase in pancreatic enzymes activity to severe disease such as acute pancreatitis. Acute pancreatitis (AP) induced by drugs, mainly thiopurine, seems to be the most- often-reported pancreatic disease associated with IBD in children. AP associated with other than drug etiologies, and chronic pancreatitis (CP), are rarely observed in the course of pediatric IBD. The pancreatic involvement can be strictly related to the activity of IBD and can also precede the diagnosis of IBD in some pediatric patients. The course of AP is mild in most cases and may occasionally lead to the development of CP, mainly in cases with a genetic predisposition. Conclusions: The involvement of the pancreas in the course of IBD may be considered as an EIM or a separate co-morbid disease, but it can also be a side effect of IBD therapy, therefore a differential diagnosis should always be performed. As the number of IBD incidences with concomitant pancreatic diseases is constantly increasing in the pediatric population, it is important to include pancreatic enzymes level measurement in the workup of IBD.
Frailty, a Dimension of Impaired Functional Status in Advanced COPD: Utility and Clinical Applicability
Authors: Antoniu Sabina Antonela , Boiculese Lucian Vasile , Prunoiu Virgiliu
Published: May 2021

Background and Objectives: In advanced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), functional status is significantly impaired mainly as a result of disease related respiratory symptoms such as dyspnea or as a result of fatigue, which is the extra-respiratory symptom the most prevalent in this setting. “Physical” frailty, considered to be an aging phenotype, has defining traits that can also be considered when studying impaired functional status, but little is known about this relationship in advanced COPD. This review discusses the relevance of this type of frailty in advanced COPD and evaluates it utility and its clinical applicability as a potential outcome measure in palliative care for COPD. Materials and Methods: A conceptual review on the functional status as an outcome measure of mortality and morbidity in COPD, and an update on the definition and traits of frailty. Results: Data on the prognostic role of frailty in COPD are rather limited, but individual data on traits of frailty demonstrating their relationship with mortality and morbidity in advanced COPD are available and supportive. Conclusions: Frailty assessment in COPD patients is becoming a relevant issue not only for its potential prognostic value for increased morbidity or for mortality, but also for its potential role as a measure of functional status in palliative care for advanced COPD.
FFAR from the Gut Microbiome Crowd: SCFA Receptors in T1D Pathology
Authors: Priyadarshini Medha , Lednovich Kristen , Xu Kai , Gough Sophie , Wicksteed Barton , Layden Brian T.
Published: May 2021

The gut microbiome has emerged as a novel determinant of type 1 diabetes (T1D), but the underlying mechanisms are unknown. In this context, major gut microbial metabolites, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), are considered to be an important link between the host and gut microbiome. We, along with other laboratories, have explored how SCFAs and their cognate receptors affect various metabolic conditions, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. Though gut microbiome and SCFA-level changes have been reported in T1D and in mouse models of the disease, the role of SCFA receptors in T1D remains under explored. In this review article, we will highlight the existing and possible roles of these receptors in T1D pathology. We conclude with a discussion of SCFA receptors as therapeutic targets for T1D, exploring an exciting new potential for novel treatments of glucometabolic disorders.
A Comprehensive Targeted Metabolomics Assay for Crop Plant Sample Analysis
Authors: Zheng Jiamin , Johnson Mathew , Mandal Rupasri , Wishart David S.
Published: May 2021

Metabolomics plays an important role in various fields from health to agriculture. However, the comprehensive quantitative metabolomic analysis of plants and plant metabolites has not been widely performed. Liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)-based plant metabolomics offers the sensitivity and breadth of coverage for both phenotyping and disease diagnosis of plants. Here, we report a high-coverage and quantitative MS-based assay for plant metabolite analysis. The assay detects and quantifies 206 primary and secondary plant metabolites, including many key plant hormones. In total, it measures 28 amino acids and derivatives, 27 organic acids, 20 biogenic amines and derivatives, 40 acylcarnitines, 90 phospholipids and C-6 sugars. All the analysis methods in this assay are based on LC-MS/MS techniques using both positive and negative-mode multiple reaction monitoring (MRM). The recovery rates of spiked plant samples at three different concentration levels (low, medium and high) ranged from 80% to 120%, with satisfactory precision values of less than 20%. This targeted plant metabolomic assay has been successfully applied to the analysis of large numbers of pine and spruce needle samples, canola root samples, as well as cannabis samples. Moreover, the assay was specifically developed in a 96-well plate format, which enables automated, high-throughput sample analysis. This assay has already been used to analyze over 1500 crop plant samples in less than two months.
Reconstruction of a Genome-Scale Metabolic Model of Streptomyces albus J1074: Improved Engineering Strategies in Natural Product Synthesis
Authors: Kittikunapong Cheewin , Ye Suhui , Magadán-Corpas Patricia , Pérez-Valero Álvaro , Villar Claudio J. , Lombó Felipe , Kerkhoven Eduard J.
Published: May 2021

Streptomyces albus J1074 is recognized as an effective host for heterologous production of natural products. Its fast growth and efficient genetic toolbox due to a naturally minimized genome have contributed towards its advantage in expressing biosynthetic pathways for a diverse repertoire of products such as antibiotics and flavonoids. In order to develop precise model-driven engineering strategies for de novo production of natural products, a genome-scale metabolic model (GEM) was reconstructed for the microorganism based on protein homology to model species Streptomyces coelicolor while drawing annotated data from databases and literature for further curation. To demonstrate its capabilities, the Salb-GEM was used to predict overexpression targets for desirable compounds using flux scanning with enforced objective function (FSEOF). Salb-GEM was also utilized to investigate the effect of a minimized genome on metabolic gene essentialities in comparison to another Streptomyces species, S. coelicolor.
Glycolysis Metabolites and Risk of Atrial Fibrillation and Heart Failure in the PREDIMED Trial
Authors: Becerra-Tomás Nerea , Ruiz-Canela Miguel , Hernández-Alonso Pablo , Bulló Mònica , Li Jun , Guasch-Ferré Marta , Toledo Estefanía , Clish Clary B. , Estruch Ramon , Ros Emilio , Fitó Montserrat , Lee Chih-Hao , Pierce Kerry , Arós Fernando , Serra-Majem Lluís , Liang Liming , Razquin Cristina , Gómez-Gracia Enrique , Martínez-González Miguel A. , Hu Frank B. , Corella Dolores , Salas-Salvadó Jordi
Published: May 2021

The increased prevalence of atrial fibrillation (AF) and heart failure (HF) highlights the need to better understand the mechanisms underlying these cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the association between glycolysis-related metabolites and the risk of AF and HF in a Mediterranean population at high risk of CVD. We used two case–control studies nested within the PREDIMED trial. A total of 512 incident AF cases matched to 734 controls, and 334 incident HF cases matched to 508 controls, were included. Plasma metabolites were quantified by using hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution negative ion mode MS detection. Conditional logistic regression analyses were performed. The results showed no association between baseline plasma glycolysis intermediates and other related metabolites with AF. Only phosphoglycerate was associated with a higher risk of HF (OR for 1 SD increase: 1.28; 95% CI: 1.06, 1.53). The present findings do not support a role of the glycolysis pathway in the pathogenesis of AF. However, the increased risk of HF associated with phosphoglycerate requires further studies.
Hybrid Dilated Convolution with Multi-Scale Residual Fusion Network for Hyperspectral Image Classification
Authors: Li Chenming , Qiu Zelin , Cao Xueying , Chen Zhonghao , Gao Hongmin , Hua Zaijun
Published: May 2021

The convolutional neural network (CNN) has been proven to have better performance in hyperspectral image (HSI) classification than traditional methods. Traditional CNN on hyperspectral image classification is used to pay more attention to spectral features and ignore spatial information. In this paper, a new HSI model called local and hybrid dilated convolution fusion network (LDFN) was proposed, which fuses the local information of details and rich spatial features by expanding the perception field. The details of our local and hybrid dilated convolution fusion network methods are as follows. First, many operations are selected, such as standard convolution, average pooling, dropout and batch normalization. Then, fusion operations of local and hybrid dilated convolution are included to extract rich spatial-spectral information. Last, different convolution layers are gathered into residual fusion networks and finally input into the softmax layer to classify. Three widely hyperspectral datasets (i.e., Salinas, Pavia University and Indian Pines) have been used in the experiments, which show that LDFN outperforms state-of-art classifiers.
Lung on a Chip Development from Off-Stoichiometry Thiol–Ene Polymer
Authors: Rimsa Roberts , Galvanovskis Artis , Plume Janis , Rumnieks Felikss , Grindulis Karlis , Paidere Gunita , Erentraute Sintija , Mozolevskis Gatis , Abols Arturs
Published: May 2021

Current in vitro models have significant limitations for new respiratory disease research and rapid drug repurposing. Lung on a chip (LOAC) technology offers a potential solution to these problems. However, these devices typically are fabricated from polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), which has small hydrophobic molecule absorption, which hinders the application of this technology in drug repurposing for respiratory diseases. Off-stoichiometry thiol–ene (OSTE) is a promising alternative material class to PDMS. Therefore, this study aimed to test OSTE as an alternative material for LOAC prototype development and compare it to PDMS. We tested OSTE material for light transmission, small molecule absorption, inhibition of enzymatic reactions, membrane particle, and fluorescent dye absorption. Next, we microfabricated LOAC devices from PDMS and OSTE, functionalized with human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) and A549 cell lines, and analyzed them with immunofluorescence. We demonstrated that compared to PDMS, OSTE has similar absorption of membrane particles and effect on enzymatic reactions, significantly lower small molecule absorption, and lower light transmission. Consequently, the immunofluorescence of OSTE LOAC was significantly impaired by OSTE optical properties. In conclusion, OSTE is a promising material for LOAC, but optical issues should be addressed in future LOAC prototypes to benefit from the material properties.
Tunable Wettability Pattern Transfer Photothermally Achieved on Zinc with Microholes Fabricated by Femtosecond Laser
Authors: Li Fengping , Feng Guang , Yang Xiaojun , Lu Chengji , Ma Guang , Li Xiaogang , Xue Wei , Sun Haoran
Published: May 2021

A quickly tunable wettability pattern plays an important role in regulating the surface behavior of liquids. Light irradiation can effectively control the pattern to achieve a specific wettability pattern on the photoresponsive material. However, metal oxide materials based on light adjustable wettability have a low regulation efficiency. In this paper, zinc (Zn) superhydrophobic surfaces can be obtained by femtosecond-laser-ablated microholes. Owing to ultraviolet (UV) irradiation increasing the surface energy of Zn and heating water temperature decreasing the surface energy of water, the wettability of Zn can be quickly tuned photothermally. Then, the Zn superhydrophobic surfaces can be restored by heating in the dark. Moreover, by tuning the pattern of UV irradiation, a specific wettability pattern can be transferred by the Zn microholes, which has a potential application value in the field of new location-controlled micro-/nanofluidic devices, such as microreactors and lab-on-chip devices.
Effect of Lacticaseibacillus paracasei Strain Shirota on Improvement in Depressive Symptoms, and Its Association with Abundance of Actinobacteria in Gut Microbiota
Authors: Otaka Machiko , Kikuchi-Hayakawa Hiroko , Ogura Jun , Ishikawa Hiroshi , Yomogida Yukihito , Ota Miho , Hidese Shinsuke , Ishida Ikki , Aida Masanori , Matsuda Kazunori , Kawai Mitsuhisa , Yoshida Sumiko , Kunugi Hiroshi
Published: May 2021

We previously reported lower counts of lactobacilli and Bifidobacterium in the gut microbiota of patients with major depressive disorder (MDD), compared with healthy controls. This prompted us to investigate the possible efficacy of a probiotic strain, Lacticaseibacillus paracasei strain Shirota (LcS; basonym, Lactobacillus casei strain Shirota; daily intake of 8.0 × 1010 colony-forming units), in alleviating depressive symptoms. A single-arm trial was conducted on 18 eligible patients with MDD or bipolar disorder (BD) (14 females and 4 males; 15 MDD and 3 BD), assessing changes in psychiatric symptoms, the gut microbiota, and biological markers for intestinal permeability and inflammation, over a 12-week intervention period. Depression severity, evaluated by the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, was significantly alleviated after LcS treatment. The intervention-associated reduction of depressive symptoms was associated with the gut microbiota, and more pronounced when Bifidobacterium and the Atopobium clusters of the Actinobacteria phylum were maintained at higher counts. No significant changes were observed in the intestinal permeability or inflammation markers. Although it was difficult to estimate the extent of the effect of LcS treatment alone, the results indicated that it was beneficial to alleviate depressive symptoms, partly through its association with abundance of Actinobacteria in the gut microbiota.
Oral Microbiota of Children Is Conserved across Han, Tibetan and Hui Groups and Is Correlated with Diet and Gut Microbiota
Authors: Liu Ke , Chen Siyu , Huang Jing , Ren Feihong , Yang Tingyu , Long Danfeng , Li Huan , Huang Xiaodan
Published: May 2021

The oral microbiota can be affected by several factors; however, little is known about the relationship between diet, ethnicity and commensal oral microbiota among school children living in close geographic proximity. In addition, the relationship between the oral and gut microbiota remains unclear. We collected saliva from 60 school children from the Tibetan, Han and Hui ethnicities for a 16S rRNA gene sequencing analysis and comparison with previously collected fecal samples. The study revealed that Bacteroidetes and Proteobacteria were the dominant phyla in the oral microbiota. The Shannon diversity was lowest in the Tibetan group. A PCA showed a substantial overlap in the distribution of the taxa, indicating a high degree of conservation among the oral microbiota across ethnic groups while the enrichment of a few specific taxa was observed across different ethnic groups. The consumption of seafood, poultry, sweets and vegetables was significantly correlated with multiple oral microbiotas. Furthermore, 123 oral genera were significantly associated with 191 gut genera. A principal coordinate analysis revealed that the oral microbiota clustered separately from the gut microbiota. This work extends the findings of previous studies comparing microbiota from human populations and provides a basis for the exploration of the interactions governing the tri-partite relationship between diet, oral microbiota and gut microbiota.
Validation of a Novel Diagnostic Approach Combining the VersaTREK™ System for Recovery and Real-Time PCR for the Identification of Mycobacterium chimaera in Water Samples
Authors: Zoccola Roberto , Di Blasio Alessia , Bossotto Tiziana , Pontei Angela , Angelillo Maria , Dondo Alessandro , Goria Maria , Zoppi Simona
Published: May 2021

Mycobacterium chimaera is an emerging pathogen associated with endocarditis and vasculitis following cardiac surgery. Although it can take up to 6–8 weeks to culture on selective solid media, culture-based detection remains the gold standard for diagnosis, so more rapid methods are urgently needed. For the present study, we processed environmental M. chimaera infected simulates at volumes defined in international guidelines. Each preparation underwent real-time PCR; inoculates were placed in a VersaTREK™ automated microbial detection system and onto selective Middlebrook 7H11 agar plates. The validation tests showed that real-time PCR detected DNA up to a concentration of 10 ng/µL. A comparison of the isolation tests showed that the PCR method detected DNA in a dilution of ×102 CFU/mL in the bacterial suspensions, whereas the limit of detection in the VersaTREK™ was <10 CFU/mL. Within less than 3 days, the VersaTREK™ detected an initial bacterial load of 100 CFU. The detection limit did not seem to be influenced by NaOH decontamination or the initial water sample volume; analytical sensitivity was 1.5 × 102 CFU/mL; positivity was determined in under 15 days. VersaTREK™ can expedite mycobacterial growth in a culture. When combined with PCR, it can increase the overall recovery of mycobacteria in environmental samples, making it potentially applicable for microbial control in the hospital setting and also in environments with low levels of contamination by viable mycobacteria.
Effects of a Bioprocessed Soybean Meal Ingredient on the Intestinal Microbiota of Hybrid Striped Bass, Morone chrysops x M. saxatilis
Authors: Fowler Emily Celeste , Poudel Prakash , White Brandon , St-Pierre Benoit , Brown Michael
Published: May 2021

The hybrid striped bass (Morone chrysops x M. saxatilis) is a carnivorous species and a major product of US aquaculture. To reduce costs and improve resource sustainability, traditional ingredients used in fish diets are becoming more broadly replaced by plant-based products; however, plant meals can be problematic for carnivorous fish. Bioprocessing has improved nutritional quality and allowed higher inclusions in fish diets, but these could potentially affect other systems such as the gut microbiome. In this context, the effects of bioprocessed soybean meal on the intestinal bacterial composition in hybrid striped bass were investigated. Using high-throughput sequencing of amplicons targeting the V1–V3 region of the 16S rRNA gene, no significant difference in bacterial composition was observed between fish fed a control diet, and fish fed a diet with the base bioprocessed soybean meal. The prominent Operational Taxonomic Unit (OTU) in these samples was predicted to be a novel species affiliated to Peptostreptococcaceae. In contrast, the intestinal bacterial communities of fish fed bioprocessed soybean meal that had been further modified after fermentation exhibited lower alpha diversity (p < 0.05), as well as distinct and more varied composition patterns, with OTUs predicted to be strains of Lactococcus lactis, Plesiomonas shigelloides, or Ralstonia pickettii being the most dominant. Together, these results suggest that compounds in bioprocessed soybean meal can affect intestinal bacterial communities in hybrid striped bass.
Mineral Identification Based on Deep Learning That Combines Image and Mohs Hardness
Authors: Zeng Xiang , Xiao Yancong , Ji Xiaohui , Wang Gongwen
Published: May 2021

Mineral identification is an important part of geological analysis. Traditional identification methods rely on either the experience of the appraisers or the various measuring instruments, and the methods are either easily influenced by appraisers’ experience or require too much work. To solve the above problems, there are studies using image recognition and intelligent algorithms to identify minerals. However, current studies cannot identify many minerals, and the accuracy is low. To increase the number of identified minerals and accuracy, we propose a method that uses both mineral photo images and the Mohs hardness in deep neural networks to identify the minerals. The experimental results showed that the method can reach 90.6% top-1 accuracy and 99.6% top-5 accuracy for 36 common minerals. An app based on the model was implemented on smartphones with no need for accessing the internet and communication signals. Tested on 73 real mineral samples, the app achieved top-1 accuracy of 89% when the mineral image and hardness are both used and 71.2% when only the mineral image is used.
Analytical Approach for the Study of Teotihuacan Mural Paintings from the Techinantitla Complex
Authors: Ruvalcaba-Sil José Luis , Barba Luis , Casanova-González Edgar , Mitrani Alejandro , Muñoz Margarita , Rangel-Chavez Isaac , Maynez-Rojas Miguel Ángel , Cañetas Jaqueline
Published: May 2021

Techinantitla building complex, in the Amanalco neighborhood of the ancient city of Teotihuacan, is famous for the iconography and quality of the mural paintings found in this site. A significant part of this heritage has been lost due to looting. In recent years, an interdisciplinary research project was developed to study the limited patrimony that was left. As part of this study, we first employed geophysical techniques to reconstruct the architectural pattern of the compound’s remaining walls, where other paintings may still be found. Then, we applied a non-invasive methodology to characterize a large set of fragments recovered in the 1980s and to gain information on their pigments and manufacturing techniques. This methodology included False Color Infrared Imaging, X-ray Fluorescence and Fiber-Optics Reflectance Spectroscopy, and led to the identification of hematite, calcite, malachite, azurite and an unidentified blue pigment. The results were compared with a previous study performed on a set of Techinantitla mural paintings looted in the 1960s. A broader comparison with contemporary mural paintings from other Teotihuacan complexes shows good agreement in the materials used. These results may suggest a standardization in the making of Teotihuacan mural painting during the Xolapan period (350 to 550 AD).
Phytochemical Profile and In Vitro Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, Vital Physiological Enzymes Inhibitory and Cytotoxic Effects of Artemisia jordanica Leaves Essential Oil from Palestine
Authors: Jaradat Nidal
Published: May 2021

Artemisia jordanica (AJ) is one of the folkloric medicinal plants and grows in the arid condition used by Palestinian Bedouins in the Al-Naqab desert for the treatment of diabetes and gastrointestinal infections. The current investigation aimed, for the first time, to characterize the (AJ) essential oil (EO) components and evaluate EO’s antioxidant, anti-obesity, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and cytotoxic activities. The gas chromatography-mass spectrometer (GC-MS) technique was utilized to characterize the chemical ingredients of (AJ) EO, while validated biochemical approaches were utilized to evaluate the antioxidant, anti-obesity and antidiabetic. The microbicidal efficacy of (AJ) EO was measured utilizing the broth microdilution assay. Besides, the cytotoxic activity was estimated utilizing the (MTS) procedure. Finally, the anti-inflammatory activity was measured utilizing a COX inhibitory screening test kit. The analytical investigation revealed the presence of 19 molecules in the (AJ) EO. Oxygenated terpenoids, including bornyl acetate (63.40%) and endo-borneol (17.75%) presented as major components of the (AJ) EO. The EO exhibited potent antioxidant activity compared with Trolox, while it showed a weak anti-lipase effect compared with orlistat. In addition, the tested EO displayed a potent α-amylase suppressing effect compared with the positive control acarbose. Notably, the (AJ) EO exhibited strong α-glucosidase inhibitory potential compared with the positive control acarbose. The EO had has a cytotoxic effect against all the screened tumor cells. In fact, (AJ) EO showed potent antimicrobial properties. Besides, the EO inhibited the enzymes COX-1 and COX-2, compared with the anti-inflammatory drug ketoprofen. The (AJ) EO has strong antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-α-amylase, anti-α-glucosidase, and COX inhibitory effects which could be a favorite candidate for the treatment of various neurodegenerative diseases caused by harmful free radicals, microbial resistance, diabetes, and inflammations. Further in-depth investigations are urgently crucial to explore the importance of such medicinal plants in pharmaceutical production.
Statistical Based Bioprocess Design for Improved Production of Amylase from Halophilic Bacillus sp. H7 Isolated from Marine Water
Authors: Bandal J. N. , Tile V. A. , Sayyed R. Z. , Jadhav H. P. , Azelee N. I. Wan , Danish Subhan , Datta Rahul
Published: May 2021

Amylase (EC 3.2.1.1) enzyme has gained tremendous demand in various industries, including wastewater treatment, bioremediation and nano-biotechnology. This compels the availability of enzyme in greater yields that can be achieved by employing potential amylase-producing cultures and statistical optimization. The use of Plackett–Burman design (PBD) that evaluates various medium components and having two-level factorial designs help to determine the factor and its level to increase the yield of product. In the present work, we are reporting the screening of amylase-producing marine bacterial strain identified as Bacillus sp. H7 by 16S rRNA. The use of two-stage statistical optimization, i.e., PBD and response surface methodology (RSM), using central composite design (CCD) further improved the production of amylase. A 1.31-fold increase in amylase production was evident using a 5.0 L laboratory-scale bioreactor. Statistical optimization gives the exact idea of variables that influence the production of enzymes, and hence, the statistical approach offers the best way to optimize the bioprocess. The high catalytic efficiency (kcat/Km) of amylase from Bacillus sp. H7 on soluble starch was estimated to be 13.73 mL/s/mg.