bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of Canola Roots Endophytic Bacteria and Analysis of Their Potential as Biofertilizers for Canola Crops with Special Emphasis on Sporulating Bacteria
Authors: Martínez-Hidalgo Pilar , Flores-Félix José David , Sánchez-Juanes Fernando , Rivas Raúl , Mateos Pedro F. , Santa Regina Ignacio , Peix Álvaro , Martínez-Molina Eustoquio , Igual José M. , Velázquez Encarna
Published: September 2021

Canola (Brassica napus L. var. oleracea) is the third most common oil-producing crop worldwide after palm and soybean. Canola cultivation requires the use of chemical fertilizers, but the amount required can be reduced by applying plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB). Among PGPB, endophytic bacteria have certain advantages as biofertilizers, but canola endophytic bacteria have rarely been studied. In this work, we identified a collection of bacterial endophytes isolated from canola roots using MALDI-TOF MS, a technique that is still rarely used for the identification of such bacteria, and rrs gene sequencing, a methodology that is commonly used to identify canola endophytes. The results demonstrated that some bacterial isolates from canola roots belonged to the genera Bacillus, Neobacillus, Peribacillus (Pe.), and Terribacillus, but most isolates belonged to the genera Paenibacillus (P.) and Pseudomonas (Ps.). Inoculation of these isolates indicated that several of them could efficiently promote canola seedling growth in hydroponic conditions. These results were then confirmed in a microcosm experiment using agricultural soil, which demonstrated that several isolates of Pseudomonas thivervalensis, Paenibacillus amylolyticus, Paenibacillus polymyxa, Paenibacillus sp. (Paenibacillus glucanolyticus/Paenibacillus lautus group), and Peribacillus simplex (previously Bacillus simplex) could efficiently promote canola shoot growth under greenhouse conditions. Among them, the isolates of Paenibacillus and Peribacillus were the most promising biofertilizers for canola crops as they are sporulated rods, which is an advantageous trait when formulating biofertilizers.
Variations in the Levels of Individual Phenolic Compounds in Grapevine Latent Buds during Eco-Dormancy, Following Chemically-Induced Stress Conditions
Authors: Daskalakis Ioannis , Stavrakaki Maritina , Sotirakoglou Kyriaki , Biniari Katerina
Published: September 2021

The goal of viticulture in Greece, where it is one of the country’s briskest economic activities, is satisfying grape yields. Nevertheless, owing to the ongoing climate change, that goal is impeded by a major obstacle in the form of an insufficient period of chilling temperatures which are becoming briefer. Consequently, the shorter period of cold leads to poor budbreak which, in turn, results in reduced yields. In order to meet the chilling requirements that several plants (including the grapevine) require for bud dormancy release, agronomists have resorted to treatments with chemical regulators. This study aimed at identifying and quantifying during eco-dormancy the individual phenolic compounds, together with their possible variations, in the latent buds of the ‘Prime©’ and ‘Ralli’ table grape cultivars. The study induced chemical stress by means of four different solutions, at three discrete dates per year, for three consecutive years. Phenolics were analyzed via HPLC. Their quantitative analysis showed variations both between the varieties and between the samples of those varieties. The analysis indicated that the phenolic content continued progressing during the annual growth cycle. Higher rates of increase in the phenolic content were observed in the first three days following each application, which implies an immediate stress response mechanism. Strong positive correlations were detected between several polyphenols. Luteolin, despite registering a positive correlation with quercetin, resveratrol, o-coumaric, did not do so with the remaining polyphenols. The results confirmed that chemically-induced stress conditions affect the phenolics content. Moreover, depending on the date of application, significant changes appear in the variations of those phenolics.
Winter Pea Mixtures with Triticale and Oat for Biogas and Methane Production in Semiarid Conditions of the South Pannonian Basin
Authors: Vasiljevic Sanja , Djalovic Ivica , Miladinovic Jegor , Xu Nan , Sui Xin , Wang Quanzhen , Prasad P. V. Vara
Published: September 2021

Due to the increase in greenhouse gases from burning fossil fuels, there is increased attention on renewable energy sources from specialized crops. These crops should not compete with food security, and it is important to select plant resources which can produce methane-rich biogas efficiently. The most commonly used energy crops are planted and managed intensively with high inputs in productive land, and this negatively affects land use and sustainable use of resources. The main purposes of this study are to: (a) determine the best cropping system for optimal biogas and methane production from sole crops of winter pea, triticale and out and their mixtures at two different maturity stages (first stage: full-flowering stage of winter pea and beginning of milky stage of cereals; second stage: emergence of firsts pods for pea and milky/waxy stage of cereals); and (b) to develop and use a surface model to determine the best combinations of various mixtures that result in highest biogas and methane. The used pure or mixtures of pea, oat and triticale in two seed weight ratios (50%:50% and 75%:25%) produced different green mass, dry matter, solids, biogas and methane yields. The experiments showed that maximum green mass was produced by the mixture of pea and oat at the seed ratio 75%:25% and when crop was harvested at the full-flowering stage of winter pea and beginning of the milky stage of cereals. After quadratic model analyses, the combination ratios of the oat and triticale were, respectively, 30% and 8%, with a maximum green biomass yield of 61.48 t ha−1, while the corresponding values were 28% and 38%, with maximum solids yields of 25.64 t ha−1. As the model was set at 100 for all three independent variables (oat, triticale and pea), the pea should be at 62% (100-30-8) and 34% (100-28-38), respectively, for green mass and organic solids yields. The results of surface analysis and multivariate analysis of variance showed that the mixture of oat and triticale had great potentiality for biogas and methane yields. The optimal mixture of oat with triticale was 27~35% with 73~65% for producing biogas and (or) methane.
Quantification of Pesticide Residues in Fresh Vegetables Available in Local Markets for Human Consumption and the Associated Health Risks
Authors: Nisha Umme Salma , Khan Md. Sirajul Islam , Prodhan Mohammad Dalower Hossain , Meftaul Islam Md , Begum Noorjahan , Parven Aney , Shahriar Syfullah , Juraimi Abdul Shukor , Hakim Md. Abdul
Published: September 2021

Human health risks as a result of consuming pesticide residues in fresh vegetables have drawn serious attention to the scientific community, particularly in developing countries. This study analyzed country bean (Lablab purpureus L.) and eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) for widely used neonicotinoid, synthetic pyrethroid, and dithiocarbamate pesticide residues in order to ensure food safety. The analyzed vegetables contained residues of acetamiprid and cypermethrin in 17% of bean and 13% of eggplant samples, respectively; among them, 3% of bean and 1% of eggplant samples had residues of acetamiprid that were above the maximum residue limits set by the European Union (EU-MRLs). None of the samples for either of the analyzed vegetables contained the residue of thiram and lambda-cyhalothrin. In contrast, 83% of bean and 87% of eggplant samples had no detectable pesticides. Thus, the findings were surprising considering the repeated and overuse of pesticides in vegetables in the investigated areas. However, this outcome supports the general claim of pesticide adulteration in terms of the active ingredients, which is another drawback to ensuring food safety. The non-cancer health risk assessment based on the acute health risk to consumer (aHI) and chronic hazard quotient (HQ) indicates that contaminated vegetables might pose a potential threat to children’s health and alarming for adults. This study reflects the overall scenario of pesticide residues in marketed vegetables of Barishal district of Bangladesh, which could help the consumers to bring awareness, and to take necessary actions by the pesticide suppliers and policymakers.
Photosynthetic Physiology Comparisons between No Tillage and Sod Culture of Citrus Farming in Different Seasons under Various Light Intensities
Authors: Chen Chung-I. , Lin Kuan-Hung , Huang Meng-Yuan , Yang Chih-Kai , Lin Yu-Hsiu , Hsueh Mei-Li , Lee Li-Hua , Wang Ching-Wen
Published: September 2021

Sod culture (SC) and no tillage (NT) are modern orchard management systems, and are two different bases for the sustainable development and production of citrus orchards in Taiwan. However, there is no information about the efficiency of either NT or SC on the photosynthetic physiology of farmed citrus under different seasons and varying light intensities. The objective of this study was to clarify the impacts of SC and NT under eco-friendly farming management on the photosynthetic apparatus of an important plantation citrus species in response to varying light intensities over the seasons. The results showed that Rd (dark respiration rate of CO2), Qy (light quantum yield of CO2), LCP (light compensation point), Amax (maximum net assimilation of CO2), and Fv/Fm values of citrus plants under SC were somewhat higher under NT in the same season, particularly in the fall and in winter. As light intensity increased from 200 to 2000 μmol photon m−2 s−1 PPFD, higher Pn (net photosynthesis rate), Gs (stomatal conductance), ETR (electron transport rate), NPQ (non-photochemical quenching), and Fv/Fm (potential quantum efficiency of PSII) values were observed in spring and summer compared to the fall and winter, and increasing NPQ and decreasing Fv/Fm values were observed in all seasons. Positive and significant correlations were shown between the Pn and Gs under NT and SC in all seasons with all light illuminations, whereas significant and negative relationships were observed between the ETR and NPQ under NT in fall and winter at 1200~2000 PPFD. In short, ETR was useful for non-destructive estimations of Pn and NPQ since these indices were significantly and positively correlated with ETR in citrus leaves exposed to 0~1200 PPFD in all seasons and 1200~2000 PPFD in spring, the fall, and winter, providing a quick means to identify the physiological condition of plants under various seasons and tillages. The precise management of photosynthetic parameters such as ETR in response to light irradiances under varied seasons also provides implications for sustainable citrus production for tillage cropping systems in future higher CO2 and potentially wetter or drier environments. The tillages may hold promise for maximizing the economic efficiency of the growth and development of citrus plants grown in the field.
Different Temperature Regimes Influenced the Quality of Broccoli Seedlings, Which Caused a Change in the Chemical Composition of Mature Heads
Authors: Kalisz Andrzej , Gil Joanna , Kunicki Edward , Sękara Agnieszka , Sałata Andrzej , Caruso Gianluca
Published: September 2021

Exposure of vegetable seedlings to lowered temperature affects their growth and the content of certain chemical constituents. Chilling activates defensive mechanisms against stress and leads to acclimatization which increases plant ability to withstand harsh field conditions. Thus, seedlings subjected to low-temperature treatment had altered metabolic pathways, and these changes can persist until harvest. We therefore assessed: (i) the direct response of broccoli seedlings to 1 week or 2 weeks at lowered temperatures (6 °C, 10 °C, 14 °C, and 18 °C—control); and (ii) the long-term effects of the latter treatments on phytochemical components level in mature heads of broccoli cultivated in the field. Chilling stress decreased seedling shoot and root fresh and dry weights, plant height, number of leaves, leaf area, leaf perimeter, and leaf width. The most spectacular reductions in these parameters were observed at 6 °C and 10 °C. Longer exposure to lowered temperature resulted in greater reduction in the values of morphological traits. Chilling led to reduction in L-ascorbic acid content in broccoli seedlings, while a 6 °C temperature caused an increase in soluble sugars. The highest content of dry weight, soluble sugars, and L-ascorbic acid were observed in the heads of plants exposed to 14 °C; however, the content of dry weight (at 10 °C) and L-ascorbic acid (at 6 °C and 10 °C) also increased in broccoli heads in comparison with the control. Longer chilling (for 2 weeks) generally increased the content of these constituents in mature broccoli. Lower temperature (6–14 °C) applied at seedling stage increased P and Zn contents in broccoli heads in comparison to the control, whereas plants treated with 10 °C had more K, Fe, and, together with 6 °C treatment, Cu. The lowest temperature applied to the seedlings (6 °C) caused an increase in Mn content, while no effects of seedling chilling was noted for Ca levels. Significant linear correlations were noted and regression models were developed for the content of dry weight, soluble sugars, and L-ascorbic acid in the broccoli heads based on the chosen seedling parameters. The results show that the effect of lowered temperature to which the seedlings were subjected persists also in the further stages of plant ontogenesis, causing permanent changes in the chemical composition of mature broccoli heads.
Selection of Suitable Genotypes of Lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.) under Rainfed Conditions in South Italy Using Multi-Trait Stability Index (MTSI)
Authors: Sellami Mohamed Houssemeddine , Pulvento Cataldo , Lavini Antonella
Published: September 2021

Lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.) is a popular legume crop in the Mediterranean region, widely grown for its nutritious seeds and improving soil fertility. Lentil yield is a critical and challenging trait for crop genetic improvement because it is influenced by various factors that have detrimental effects on seed yields and seed quality traits. This research was carried out in Italy between 2017 and 2019 to identify high-performing stable genotypes presenting multiple desirable traits and to assess the seed quality of 13 lentil accessions in the field. According to the results of the multi-trait stability index (MTSI), (1) only three accessions (Altamura, Easton, and Caltagirone) fared better in various environmental conditions, and (2) the selected accessions had strength toward seed yield (SY), above-ground biomass (AGB), and 1000-seed weight (THS). The genotype × environment interaction (GEI) effects were highly significant for all traits. During the third growing season, most lentil accessions were sensitive to frost. There was no correlation between lentil seed yield and protein concentration. The MTSI is a useful tool for breeders interested in selecting accessions based on their mean performance and stability, as well as desirable traits and minimum multicollinearity issues.
Microsatellite Characterization of Malaysian Mahseer (Tor spp.) for Improvement of Broodstock Management and Utilization
Authors: Chew Poh Chiang , Christianus Annie , Zudaidy Jaapar M. , Ina-Salwany Md Yasin , Chong Chou Min , Tan Soon Guan
Published: September 2021

In this study, a mixture of Tor tambra and T. tambroides with unknown genetic background were collected from 11 localities in Malaysia for broodstock development and sperm cryo-banking. This study aims to assess the microsatellite (simple sequence repeat, SSR) variation, genetic diversity, genetic differentiation, level of gene flow, population structure, genetic relatedness and their demographic aspects among these Tor populations, in addition to establishing their SSR profile by employing 22 SSR markers via fragment analysis. Total genomic DNA was extracted from 181 samples (91 cryopreserved milt samples and 90 scale samples of live broodfish). Results showed the Tor spp. collection retained their genetic variation but exhibited excessive homozygosity among individuals within population. Moderate genetic differentiation was shown among the populations, with highly significant (p < 0.001) fixation indices (FST, FIS and FIT). A low gene flow over all loci (Nm 1.548) indicates little genetic variation transfer between populations. The genetic structures of all the populations were successfully resolved into four main clusters by an unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean (UPGMA) dendrogram generated based on Nei’s genetic distances. The population structures based on principal coordinates analysis (PCoA) and the Bayesian model also suggested four distinct clusters following geographical regions and eight closely related populations. This study provided a useful baseline reference for better genetic management and utilization of the Tor spp. stocks in their breeding and conservation programmes.
Counting on Numbers—Numerical Abilities in Grey Bamboo Sharks and Ocellate River Stingrays
Authors: Kreuter Nils , Christofzik Nele , Niederbremer Carolin , Bollé Janik , Schluessel Vera
Published: September 2021

Over the last decade, studies examining the cognitive abilities of fish have increased, using a broad range of approaches. One of the foci has been to test the ability of fish to discriminate quantities of items and to determine whether fish can solve tasks solely on the basis of numerical information. This study is the first to investigate this ability in two elasmobranch species. All animals were trained in two-alternative forced-choice visual experiments and then examined in transfer tests, to determine if previously gained knowledge could be applied to new tasks. Results show that the grey bamboo shark (Chiloscyllium griseum) and the ocellate river stingray (Potamotrygon motoro) can discriminate quantities based on numerical information alone, while continuous variables were controlled for. Furthermore, the data indicates that similar magnitudes and limits for quantity discrimination exist as in other animals. However, the high degree of intraspecific variation that was observed as well as the low rate of animals proving to be successful suggest that the ability to discriminate quantities may not be as important to these species as to some other vertebrate and invertebrate species tested so far.
Hypothyroidism Affects Uterine Function via the Modulation of Prostaglandin Signaling
Authors: Kowalczyk-Zieba Ilona , Staszkiewicz-Chodor Joanna , Boruszewska Dorota , Lukaszuk Krzysztof , Jaworska Joanna , Woclawek-Potocka Izabela
Published: September 2021

Thyroid hormones control the functions of almost all body systems. Reproductive dysfunctions, such as abnormal sexual development, infertility, or irregularities in the reproductive cycle, might be associated with thyroid disorders. Uterine receptivity is the period when the uterus is receptive to the implantation of an embryo. During the receptivity period (implantation window), a newly formed blastocyst is incorporated into the uterine epithelium. Prostaglandins are well-known primary mediators of pathological conditions such as inflammation and cancer but are also essential for the physiology of female reproduction. The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible relationship between hypothyroidism and changes in the prostaglandin signaling pathways in the uterus and in the process of uterine receptivity in a rat model. The results show that hypothyroidism impaired uterine receptivity by decreasing the level of E2 as well as decreasing the expression of the uterine-receptivity factors homeobox A10 and osteopontin. Moreover, hypothyroidism caused changes in the expression of elements of the prostaglandin E2, F2α, and I2 signaling pathways and changed the levels of those prostaglandins in the uterine tissue. The results suggest that the mechanisms by which hypothyroidism affects female reproductive abnormalities might involve the prostaglandin signaling pathway, resulting in a subsequent reduction in uterine receptivity.
Immunosuppressant-Responsive Enteropathy and Non-Responsive Enteropathy in Dogs: Prognostic Factors, Short- and Long-Term Follow Up
Authors: Benvenuti Elena , Pierini Alessio , Bottero Enrico , Pietra Marco , Gori Eleonora , Salvadori Stefano , Marchetti Veronica
Published: September 2021

A multicentre prospective study was performed to assess whether clinical, hematobiochemical, endoscopic and histopathological parameters were associated with mortality, clinical response and relapse of disease in short- and long-term follow-up of a total of 165 dogs with chronic inflammatory enteropathy, of which 150 had immunosuppressant responsive enteropathy (IRE), and 15 had non-responsive enteropathy (NRE) dogs. Clinical severity (CCECAI) was evaluated from presentation (T0) to 18 months (T18) from diagnosis. T0 body condition score (BCS), selected haematological parameters and endoscopic and histopathological scores were evaluated. Presence/absence of histopathological duodenal lesions was recorded. Responders were evaluated using CCECAI at T1. Relapse was evaluated from T3 to T18. Long-term responders included dogs who responded at T1 and showed no relapse. Dogs were divided into responders/non-responders, survivors/non-survivors and relapsed/non-relapsed. At T1, 15/165 dogs (9%) were considered NRE. Sixteen dogs (11%) were considered relapsed at T3, 8% at T6 and 10% at T12, and none of 96 dogs relapsed at T18. NREs showed significantly lower BCS than IREs. Non-survivors showed a significantly lower serum albumin concentration and BCS than survivors. Non-responders, relapsed or non-survivors had higher presence of lacteal dilatation compared to long-term responders. Dogs with IRE showed a good clinical course with a low relapse rate, with only a few dogs in the NRE group. Reduction of BCS, albumin and lacteal dilatation at diagnosis may be considered negative prognostic factors for response, mortality and long-term disease remission.
Ergosta-7,9(11),22-trien-3β-ol Attenuates Inflammatory Responses via Inhibiting MAPK/AP-1 Induced IL-6/JAK/STAT Pathways and Activating Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling in LPS-Stimulated Macrophage-like Cells
Authors: Huang Yi-Ping , Chen Dar-Ren , Lin Wen-Jen , Lin Yu-Hsien , Chen Jiann-Yeu , Kuo Yueh-Hsiung , Chung Jing-Gung , Hsia Te-Chun , Hsieh Wen-Tsong
Published: September 2021

Chronic inflammation induces autoimmune disorders and chronic diseases. Several natural products activate nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling, attenuating inflammatory responses. Ergosta-7,9(11),22-trien-3β-ol (EK100) isolated from Cordyceps militaris showed anti-inflammatory and antioxidative activity, but those mechanisms are still unclear. This study is the first to investigate EK100 on antioxidant Nrf2 relative genes expression in LPS-stimulated macrophage-like cell lines. The results showed that EK100 reduced IL-6 (interleukin-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α production. EK100 also attenuated a mitogen-activated protein kinase/activator protein-1 (MAPK/AP-1) pathway and interleukin-6/Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (IL-6/JAK/STAT) pathway in LPS-stimulated cells. Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) inhibitor CLI-095 and MAPK inhibitors can synergize the anti-inflammatory response of EK100 in LPS-stimulated cells. Moreover, EK100 activated Nrf2/HO-1 (heme oxygenase-1) signaling in LPS-stimulated murine macrophage-like RAW 264.7 cells, murine microglial BV2 cells, and human monocytic leukemia THP-1 cells. However, Nrf2 small interfering RNA (Nrf2 siRNA) reversed EK100-induced antioxidative proteins expressions. In conclusion, EK100 showed anti-inflammatory responses via activating the antioxidative Nrf2/HO-1 signaling and inhibiting TLR4 related MAPK/AP-1 induced IL-6/JAK/STAT pathways in the LPS-stimulated cells in vitro. The results suggest EK100 acts as a novel antioxidant with multiple therapeutic targets that can potentially be developed to treat chronic inflammation-related diseases.
Cimicifuga racemosa Extract Ze 450 Re-Balances Energy Metabolism and Promotes Longevity
Authors: Rabenau Malena , Dillberger Benjamin , Günther Madeline , Krippner Sylvia , Butterweck Veronika , Boonen Georg , Drewe Jürgen , Eckert Gunter P. , Culmsee Carsten
Published: September 2021

Recently, we reported that the Cimicifuga racemosa extract Ze 450 mediated protection from oxidative cell damage through a metabolic shift from oxidative phosphorylation to glycolysis. Here, we investigated the molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of Ze 450 against ferroptosis in neuronal cells, with a particular focus on mitochondria. The effects of Ze 450 on respiratory complex activity and hallmarks of ferroptosis were studied in isolated mitochondria and in cultured neuronal cells, respectively. In addition, Caenorhabditis elegans served as a model organism to study mitochondrial damage and longevity in vivo. We found that Ze 450 directly inhibited complex I activity in mitochondria and enhanced the metabolic shift towards glycolysis via cMyc and HIF1α regulation. The protective effects against ferroptosis were mediated independently of estrogen receptor activation and were distinct from effects exerted by metformin. In vivo, Ze 450 protected C. elegans from the mitochondrial toxin paraquat and promoted longevity in a dose-dependent manner. In conclusion, Ze 450 mediated a metabolic shift to glycolysis via direct effects on mitochondria and altered cell signaling, thereby promoting sustained cellular resilience to oxidative stress in vitro and in vivo.
The Gasotransmitter Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) Prevents Pathologic Calcification (PC) in Cartilage
Authors: Nasi Sonia , Ehirchiou Driss , Bertrand Jessica , Castelblanco Mariela , Mitchell James , Ishii Isao , So Alexander , Busso Nathalie
Published: September 2021

Pathologic calcification (PC) is a painful and disabling condition whereby calcium-containing crystals deposit in tissues that do not physiologically calcify: cartilage, tendons, muscle, vessels and skin. In cartilage, compression and inflammation triggered by PC leads to cartilage degradation typical of osteoarthritis (OA). The PC process is poorly understood and treatments able to target the underlying mechanisms of the disease are lacking. Here we show a crucial role of the gasotransmitter hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and, in particular, of the H2S-producing enzyme cystathionine γ-lyase (CSE), in regulating PC in cartilage. Cse deficiency (Cse KO mice) exacerbated calcification in both surgically-induced (menisectomy) and spontaneous (aging) murine models of cartilage PC, and augmented PC was closely associated with cartilage degradation (OA). On the contrary, Cse overexpression (Cse tg mice) protected from these features. In vitro, Cse KO chondrocytes showed increased calcification, potentially via enhanced alkaline phosphatase (Alpl) expression and activity and increased IL-6 production. The opposite results were obtained in Cse tg chondrocytes. In cartilage samples from patients with OA, CSE expression inversely correlated with the degree of tissue calcification and disease severity. Increased cartilage degradation in murine and human tissues lacking or expressing low CSE levels may be accounted for by dysregulated catabolism. We found higher levels of matrix-degrading metalloproteases Mmp-3 and -13 in Cse KO chondrocytes, whereas the opposite results were obtained in Cse tg cells. Finally, by high-throughput screening, we identified a novel small molecule CSE positive allosteric modulator (PAM), and demonstrated that it was able to increase cellular H2S production, and decrease murine and human chondrocyte calcification and IL-6 secretion. Together, these data implicate impaired CSE-dependent H2S production by chondrocytes in the etiology of cartilage PC and worsening of secondary outcomes (OA). In this context, enhancing CSE expression and/or activity in chondrocytes could represent a potential strategy to inhibit PC.
Common Gabor Features for Image Watermarking Identification
Authors: Ahmed Ismail Taha , Hammad Baraa Tareq , Jamil Norziana
Published: September 2021

Image watermarking is one of many methods for preventing unauthorized alterations to digital images. The major goal of the research is to find and identify photos that include a watermark, regardless of the method used to add the watermark or the shape of the watermark. As a result, this study advocated using the best Gabor features and classifiers to improve the accuracy of image watermarking identification. As classifiers, discriminant analysis (DA) and random forests are used. The DA and random forest use mean squared energy feature, mean amplitude feature, and combined feature vector as inputs for classification. The performance of the classifiers is evaluated using a variety of feature sets, and the best results are achieved. In order to assess the performance of the proposed method, we use a public database. VOC2008 is a public database that we use. The findings reveal that our proposed method’s DA classifier with integrated features had the greatest TPR of 93.71 and the lowest FNR of 6.29. This shows that the performance outcomes of the proposed approach are consistent. The proposed method has the advantages of being able to find images with the watermark in any database and not requiring a specific type or algorithm for embedding the watermark.
Microbial Spoilage of Plant-Based Meat Analogues
Authors: Tóth András J. , Dunay Anna , Battay Márton , Illés Csaba Bálint , Bittsánszky András , Süth Miklós
Published: September 2021

Plant-based meat analogues (i.e., plant-based meat alternatives or substitutes, or vegan meats) are becoming more and more popular. The quality of the available products is constantly increasing therefore their consumption is also increasing. The primary role of meat analogues is to replace the meat component in meals while appropriate nutrient content and hedonic value will be provided as well. The food safety aspects of these newly emerging food products are less investigated. The aim of this study is to compare the microbial spoilage of identical meals prepared with meat and meat analogues to evaluate the food safety risk of meat analogues. In this work, raw protein materials were tested. Moreover, three pairs of meals prepared with or without meat were microbiologically examined during a storage experiment. Microbial contaminants were low in raw protein sources. In the case of hot meals, the microbial proliferation was faster in samples containing meat analogue, especially if the meals were not cooled. The food safety risk of meals prepared with meat analogues is slightly higher than their meat-containing counterparts, therefore more attention needs to be paid to the preparation, processing, and storage of these foods.
Plasma: From Materials to Emerging Technologies
Authors: Dors Mirosław
Published: September 2021

Interest in plasma as a tool in various technological processes has been growing for several decades [...]
An Optimization Tool for Production Planning: A Case Study in a Textile Industry
Authors: Ferro Rodrigo , Cordeiro Gabrielly A. , Ordóñez Robert E. C. , Beydoun Ghassan , Shukla Nagesh
Published: September 2021

The textile industry is an important sector of the Brazilian economy, being considered the fifth largest textile industry in the world. To support further growth and development in this sector, this document proposes a process for production analysis through the use of Discrete Event Simulation (DES) and optimization through genetic algorithms. The focus is on production planning for weaving processes and optimization to help make decisions about batch sizing and production scheduling activities. In addition, the correlations between some current technological trends and their implications for the textile industry are also highlighted. Another important contribution of this study is to detail the use of the commercial software Tecnomatix Plant Simulation 13®, to simulate and optimize a production problem by applying genetic algorithms with real production data.
Fast UHPLC-MS/MS for the Simultaneous Determination of Azithromycin, Erythromycin, Fluoxetine and Sotalol in Surface Water Samples
Authors: Azzi Mira , Ravier Sylvain , Elkak Assem , Coulomb Bruno , Boudenne Jean-Luc
Published: September 2021

Chromatographic development for the determination of pharmaceuticals in environmental water samples is particularly challenging when the analytes have significantly different physico-chemical properties (solubility, polarity, pKa) often requiring multiple chromatographic methods for each active component. This paper presents a method for the simultaneous determination of azithromycin, erythromycin (antibiotics), fluoxetine (anti-depressant) and sotalol (b-blocker) in surface waters by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with ultra-high-resolution time-of-flight mass spectrometry. These pharmaceuticals—presenting a broad spectrum of polarity (0.24 ≤ log Kow ≤ 4.05)—were separated on a C-18 analytical column, after a simple filtration step for freshwater samples or after a liquid–liquid extraction with Methyl-tertio-butyl ether (MTBE) for seawater samples. The optimized separation method (in terms of nature of column and eluent, elution gradient, and of mass spectrometric parameters), enable one to reach limits of detection ranging between 2 and 7 ng L−1 and limits of quantification between 7 and 23 ng L−1 for the four targeted molecules, within a three minute run. This method was validated using samples collected from three different surface waters in Lebanon (freshwater and seawater) and analytical results were compared with those obtained in surface waters sampled in a French river, equivalent in terms of human activities. Using this method, we report the highest concentration of pharmaceuticals found in surface water (up to 377 ng L−1 and 268 ng L−1, respectively, for azithromycin and erythromycin, in the Litani river, Lebanon).
Methods for Developing Models in a Fuzzy Environment of Reactor and Hydrotreating Furnace of a Catalytic Reforming Unit
Authors: Orazbayev Batyr , Zhumadillayeva Ainur , Orazbayeva Kulman , Kurmangaziyeva Lyailya , Dyussekeyev Kanagat , Iskakova Sandugash
Published: September 2021

Methods for the development of fuzzy and linguistic models of technological objects, which are characterized by the fuzzy output parameters and linguistic values of the input and output parameters of the object are proposed. The hydrotreating unit of the catalytic reforming unit was investigated and described. On the basis of experimental and statistical data and fuzzy information from experts and using the proposed methods, mathematical models of a hydrotreating reactor and a hydrotreating furnace were developed. To determine the volume of production from the outlet of the reactor and furnace, nonlinear regression models were built, and fuzzy models were developed in the form of fuzzy regression equations to determine the quality indicators of the hydrotreating unit—the hydrogenated product. To identify the structure of the models, the ideas of sequential inclusion regressors are used, and for parametric identification, a modified method of least squares is used, adapted to work in a fuzzy environment. To determine the optimal temperature of the hydrotreating process on the basis of expert information and logical rules of conditional conclusions, rule bases are built. The constructed rule bases for determining the optimal temperature of the hydrotreating process depending on the thermal stability of the feedstock and the pressure in the hydrotreating furnace are implemented using the Fuzzy Logic Toolbox application of the MatLab package. Comparison results of data obtained with the known models, developed models and real, experimental data from the hydrotreating unit of the reforming unit are presented and the effectiveness of the proposed approach to modeling is shown.
Machine Learning in Discriminating Active Volcanoes of the Hellenic Volcanic Arc
Authors: Ouzounis Athanasios G. , Papakostas George A.
Published: September 2021

Identifying the provenance of volcanic rocks can be essential for improving geological maps in the field of geology and providing a tool for the geochemical fingerprinting of ancient artifacts like millstones and anchors in the field of geoarchaeology. This study examines a new approach to this problem by using machine learning algorithms (MLAs). In order to discriminate the four active volcanic regions of the Hellenic Volcanic Arc (HVA) in Southern Greece, MLAs were trained with geochemical data of major elements, acquired from the GEOROC database, of the volcanic rocks of the Hellenic Volcanic Arc (HVA). Ten MLAs were trained with six variations of the same dataset of volcanic rock samples originating from the HVA. The experiments revealed that the Extreme Gradient Boost model achieved the best performance, reaching 93.07% accuracy. The model developed in the framework of this research was used to implement a cloud-based application which is publicly accessible at This application can be used to predict the provenance of a volcanic rock sample, within the area of the HVA, based on its geochemical composition, easily obtained by using the X-ray fluorescence (XRF) technique.
Electromagnetic Field as Agent Moving Bioactive Cations. A New Antimicrobial System in Architecture Technology
Authors: Chlebicki Andrzej , Spisak Wojciech , Lorenc Marek W. , Śliwa Lucyna , Wołowski Konrad
Published: September 2021

There is a new described antifungal system (GALVI) involving the moving of bioactive ions of Zn, Cu and Bi for the protection of cultural heritage objects such as buildings, sculptures and stretchers. There were two kinds of galvanic cells that were used: the first composed of a two-electrodes system, Zn, Cu, and second one composed of a three-electrodes system, Zn, Bi and Cu. Moreover, two-phase media are proposed with various kinds of rocks used in architectonical objects. Microorganisms inhabit the boundaries of two liquid and solid phases. This enables the investigation of the process of rock colonization. Possible applications of the suggested GALVI system are mentioned.
Oral Manifestations in Scurvy Pediatric Patients: A Systematic Review and a Case Report
Authors: Gicchino Maria Francesca , Romano Antonio , Cioffi Speranza , Fiori Fausto , Miraglia del Giudice Emanuele , Lucchese Alberta , Olivieri Alma Nunzia , Serpico Rosario
Published: September 2021

Scurvy is generated by lack of vitamin C; although it is considered a rare and past disease, scurvy continues to be detected in children with neurodevelopmental disorders and with selective diet habits. Identifying scurvy can be demanding due to the perceived rarity of the condition, and it can become a tricky diagnostic question given to the variety of nonspecific symptoms, including gingival manifestations. This study aims to identify most common clinical features in order to provide a complete picture of the signs and symptoms, and to offer clinicians the diagnostic tools for identifying patients suffering from scurvy. We present a case report of a child affected by scurvy; it has also been performed as a systematic review about scurvy in pediatric population. A search yielded 107 relevant studies since 1990. Most of the identified cases have shown oral, musculoskeletal and cutaneous manifestation that improved within a few days of starting vitamin C therapy. Identifying scurvy’s characteristic clinical features allows a timely diagnosis, thus avoiding invasive investigations. Pediatric dentists should possess adequate knowledge and experience to identify the main characteristics of scurvy. This can help facilitate a prompt diagnosis in order to provide timely intervention to the patient that is relatively ease and safe.
Human Behavior Analysis: A Survey on Action Recognition
Authors: Degardin Bruno , Proença Hugo
Published: September 2021

The visual recognition and understanding of human actions remain an active research domain of computer vision, being the scope of various research works over the last two decades. The problem is challenging due to its many interpersonal variations in appearance and motion dynamics between humans, without forgetting the environmental heterogeneity between different video images. This complexity splits the problem into two major categories: action classification, recognising the action being performed in the scene, and spatiotemporal action localisation, concerning recognising multiple localised human actions present in the scene. Previous surveys mainly focus on the evolution of this field, from handcrafted features to deep learning architectures. However, this survey presents an overview of both categories and respective evolution within each one, the guidelines that should be followed and the current benchmarks employed for performance comparison between the state-of-the-art methods.
A Simple Two-Stage AC-AC Circuit Topology Employed as High-Frequency Controller for Domestic Induction Heating System
Authors: Ashraf Naveed , Abbas Ghulam , Ullah Nasim , Alahmadi Ahmad Aziz , Awan Ahmed Bilal , Zubair Muhammad , Farooq Umar
Published: September 2021

The induction heating process at a domestic level is getting attention nowadays as this power converting topology ensures clean, reliable, flexible, and fast operation. The low input frequency is converted to required regulated high output frequency with indirect and direct power converting approaches. The circuit and control complexity and high conversion losses associated with indirect power converting approaches lower their uses for domestic induction systems. The direct ac-ac power conversion approach is one of the viable solutions for low and medium power level loads, especially for domestic induction heating loads. The circuit complexity, cost, and conversion losses of the direct power converting systems depend on the number of the controlled switching devices as each controlled switch requires one gate driving circuit and one isolated dc supply. Simplified pulse width modulation (PWM) switching control also lower their control effort. Therefore, in this article, a simplified direct ac-ac power converting approach is introduced for a high-frequency domestic induction heating system. Here, the regulation of the high output frequency is achieved by simply cascading the single-phase full-bridge rectifier with a full-bridge inverter with a simple control strategy. The characteristics of the developed topology are validated through simulation results of the Simulink-based platform and practical results of the developed practical setup.
Emerging Swarm Intelligence Algorithms and Their Applications in Antenna Design: The GWO, WOA, and SSA Optimizers
Authors: Boursianis Achilles D. , Papadopoulou Maria S. , Salucci Marco , Polo Alessandro , Sarigiannidis Panagiotis , Psannis Konstantinos , Mirjalili Seyedali , Koulouridis Stavros , Goudos Sotirios K.
Published: September 2021

Swarm Intelligence (SI) Algorithms imitate the collective behavior of various swarms or groups in nature. In this work, three representative examples of SI algorithms have been selected and thoroughly described, namely the Grey Wolf Optimizer (GWO), the Whale Optimization Algorithm (WOA), and the Salp Swarm Algorithm (SSA). Firstly, the selected SI algorithms are reviewed in the literature, specifically for optimization problems in antenna design. Secondly, a comparative study is performed against widely known test functions. Thirdly, such SI algorithms are applied to the synthesis of linear antenna arrays for optimizing the peak sidelobe level (pSLL). Numerical tests show that the WOA outperforms the GWO and the SSA algorithms, as well as the well-known Particle Swarm Optimizer (PSO), in terms of average ranking. Finally, the WOA is exploited for solving a more computational complex problem concerned with the synthesis of an dual-band aperture-coupled E-shaped antenna operating in the 5G frequency bands.
A Coupled Multiscale Approach to Modeling Aortic Valve Mechanics in Health and Disease
Authors: Bakhaty Ahmed A. , Govindjee Sanjay , Mofrad Mohammad R. K.
Published: September 2021

Mechano-biological processes in the aortic valve span multiple length scales ranging from the molecular and cell to tissue and organ levels. The valvular interstitial cells residing within the valve cusps sense and actively respond to leaflet tissue deformations caused by the valve opening and closing during the cardiac cycle. Abnormalities in these biomechanical processes are believed to impact the matrix-maintenance function of the valvular interstitial cells, thereby initiating valvular disease processes such as calcific aortic stenosis. Understanding the mechanical behavior of valvular interstitial cells in maintaining tissue homeostasis in response to leaflet tissue deformation is therefore key to understanding the function of the aortic valve in health and disease. In this study, we applied a multiscale computational homogenization technique (also known as “FE2”) to aortic valve leaflet tissue to study the three-dimensional mechanical behavior of the valvular interstitial cells in response to organ-scale mechanical loading. We further considered calcific aortic stenosis with the aim of understanding the likely relationship between the valvular interstitial cell deformations and calcification. We find that the presence of calcified nodules leads to an increased strain profile that drives further growth of calcification.
Using Convolutional Encoder Networks to Determine the Optimal Magnetic Resonance Image for the Automatic Segmentation of Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Ghosh Shaurnav , Huo Marc , Shawkat Mst Shamim Ara , McCalla Serena
Published: September 2021

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a neuroinflammatory demyelinating disease that affects over 2,000,000 individuals worldwide. It is characterized by white matter lesions that are identified through the segmentation of magnetic resonance images (MRIs). Manual segmentation is very time-intensive because radiologists spend a great amount of time labeling T1-weighted, T2-weighted, and FLAIR MRIs. In response, deep learning models have been created to reduce segmentation time by automatically detecting lesions. These models often use individual MRI sequences as well as combinations, such as FLAIR2, which is the multiplication of FLAIR and T2 sequences. Unlike many other studies, this seeks to determine an optimal MRI sequence, thus reducing even more time by not having to obtain other MRI sequences. With this consideration in mind, four Convolutional Encoder Networks (CENs) with different network architectures (U-Net, U-Net++, Linknet, and Feature Pyramid Network) were used to ensure that the optimal MRI applies to a wide array of deep learning models. Each model had used a pretrained ResNeXt-50 encoder in order to conserve memory and to train faster. Training and testing had been performed using two public datasets with 30 and 15 patients. Fisher’s exact test was used to evaluate statistical significance, and the automatic segmentation times were compiled for the top two models. This work determined that FLAIR is the optimal sequence based on Dice Similarity Coefficient (DSC) and Intersection over Union (IoU). By using FLAIR, the U-Net++ with the ResNeXt-50 achieved a high DSC of 0.7159.