bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biomass Quality Variations over Different Harvesting Regimes and Dynamics of Heavy Metal Change in Miscanthus lutarioriparius around Dongting Lake
Authors: Liao Xionghui , Wu Yini , Fu Tongcheng , Iqbal Yasir , Yang Sai , Li Meng , Yi Zili , Xue Shuai
Published: May 2022

Miscanthus lutarioriparius has a growing area of 100,000 ha and an annual biomass production of 1 Mt around Dongting Lake. However, due to serious soil pollution, there is a concern that the M. lutarioriparius biomass could have high heavy metal (HM) concentrations. This necessitates investigation of biomass quality to find the appropriate end use. Thus, this study aims to investigate the dynamics of HM elements in the M. lutarioriparius biomass and their impact on biomass quality across different growing areas and harvest times. We analyzed the HM concentrations in soil and biomass from 11 sites under different harvesting times (April, August and December). Results showed that Cd in soil samples was 9.43-fold higher than the national standards. The heavily polluted soil caused a high HM concentration in the biomass and the accumulation increased with the delayed harvest. The fresh young shoots in April met the food limitation for Cd and Cr, whereas Pb concentration was slightly higher than the threshold limit. The mature biomass from the southern part had higher Mn, Cd and Pb, but lower Cu, Zn and Cr concentrations than that from the eastern part. These results can provide guidance for guaranteeing the consistent quality of the M. lutarioriparius biomass for bio-based industry.
Yield Stability Analysis in Maize Hybrids of Southwest China under Genotype by Environment Interaction Using GGE Biplot
Authors: Liu Chaorui , Ma Chenyu , Lü Jianguo , Ye Zhilan
Published: May 2022

Selecting superior genotypes across different environments is vital for varietal release, crop planting, and commercial use. Therefore, the objectives of this research were to appraise the performance of hybrids approved in recent years in diverse environments, and recommend high-yielding and stable genotypes for wider adaptation. Fourteen single cross maize hybrid genotypes (G), including a check, were implemented across ten environments (E) in two crop seasons (2020 and 2021). The combined analysis of variance revealed that G, E, and their interactive (GEI) significantly (p < 0.01) affected the grain yield. Moreover, the mean grain yield ranged from 9333 kg ha−1 for HH-2 (2021) to 13,195 kg ha−1 for LD-18 (2020). The “which won where” GGE biplot revealed the existence of mega environments with their own best hybrids (LD-18 and LD-29 in 2020; LD-18, LD-19, and YY-1506 in 2021). The “mean vs. stable” GGE biplot suggested that LD-18 and ZY-811, with highest/middle productive and high stability across 10 environments, were closest to the ideal genotype. Furthermore, the “discriminating power vs. representativeness” GGE biplot showed that Xuanwei, Yanshan, Gengma, and Shiling were the most the ideal test environments for hybrid selecting, based on their discriminative ability and representativeness. Therefore, the GGE biplot analysis allowed for an efficient selection of high-yielding and stable maize hybrids to guide ecological planting and commercial use.
Long-Term Optimal Management of Rapeseed Cultivation Simulated with the CROPGRO-Canola Model
Authors: Wang Chunmeng , Xu Mancan , Wang Yuchen , Batchelor William D. , Zhang Jian , Kuai Jie , Ling Lin
Published: May 2022

Rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) is an important oilseed crop grown worldwide with a planting area of 6.57 million ha in China, which accounts for about 20% of the world’s total rapeseed planting area. However, in recent years, the planting area in China has decreased by approximately 12.2% due to the low yield and economic benefits. Thus, to ensure oil security, it is necessary to develop high-efficiency cultivation for rapeseed production. Crop growth models are powerful tools to analyze and optimize the yield composition of crops under certain environmental and management conditions. In this study, the CROPGRO-Canola model was first calibrated and evaluated using the rapeseed planting data of four growing seasons in Wuhan with nine nitrogen fertilizer levels (from 120 to 360 kg ha−1) and five planting densities (from 15 to 75 plants m−2). The results indicated that the CROPGRO-Canola model simulated rapeseed growth well under different nitrogen rates and planting densities in China, with a simulation error of 0–3 days for the anthesis and maturity dates and a normalized root mean square error lower than 7.48% for the yield. Furthermore, we optimized the management of rapeseed by calculating the marginal net return under 10 nitrogen rates (from 0 to 360 kg ha−1 at an increasing rate of 40 kg ha−1) and 6 planting densities (from 15 to 90 plant m−2 at an increasing rate of 15 plant m−2) from 1989 to 2019. The results indicated that the long-term optimal nitrogen rate was 120–160 kg N ha−1, and the optimal planting density was 45–75 plants m−2 under normal fertilizer prices. The optimal nitrogen rate decreased with increasing fertilizer price within a reasonable range. In conclusion, long-term rapeseed management can be optimized based on rapeseed and nitrogen cost using long-term weather records and local soil information.
Effects of Salinity-Stress on Seed Germination and Growth Physiology of Quinclorac-Resistant Echinochloa crus-galli (L.) Beauv
Authors: Wu Lamei , Yang Haona , Li Zuren , Wang Lifeng , Peng Qiong
Published: May 2022

With the expansion of saline-alkaline tolerant rice in China, the effects of salinity stress (NaCl) on quinclorac-resistant Echinochloa crus-galli (L.) Beauv (E. crus-galli) is unclear. In this study, the growth chamber experiment was conducted to test the germination and growth physiology of seven populations of E. crus-galli with quinclorac-different resistance levels which were collected from Hunan province. The results showed that a significant decrease of the germination rate and fresh weight of the plants, as well as the length of the roots and young shoots appeared, along with the increased resistance while treated with NaCl. However, no significant differences were detected between quinclorac-resistant and -susceptible E. crus-galli populations while without NaCl treatment. A further study with spectrophotometer showed that the salinity treatment resulted in the increase of the GST activity in all E. crus-galli populations, which are more obvious in those resistant biotypes, and transcriptomics revealed that salt stress reduces the adaptability of quinclorac-resistant E. crus-galli by reducing the biosynthesis, activities of antioxidant enzymes and metabolic enzyme. This study demonstrated that salinity stress (NaCl) may reduce the adaptability of quinclorac-resistant E. crus-galli.
The Use of Percutaneous Thermal Sensing Microchips to Measure Body Temperature in Horses during and after Exercise Using Three Different Cool-Down Methods
Authors: Kang Hyungsuk , Zsoldos Rebeka R. , Skinner Jazmine E. , Gaughan John B. , Mellor Vincent A. , Sole-Guitart Albert
Published: May 2022

The frequent monitoring of a horse’s body temperature post strenuous exercise is critical to prevent or alleviate exertional heat illness (EHI) from occurring. Percutaneous thermal sensing microchip (PTSM) technology has the potential to be used as a means of monitoring a horse’s body temperature during and post-exercise. However, the accuracy of the temperature readings obtained, and their relationship to core body temperature are dependent on where they are implanted. This study aimed to document the relationship between core body temperature, and temperature readings obtained using PTSM implanted in different muscles, during exercise and post application of different cool-down methods. PTSMs were implanted into the right pectoral, right gluteal, right splenius muscles, and nuchal ligament. The temperatures were monitored during treadmill exercise, and post application of three different cool-down methods: no water application (Wno), water application only (Wonly), and water application following scraping (Wscraping). Central venous temperature (TCV) and PTSM temperatures from each region were obtained to investigate the optimal body site for microchip implantation. In this study, PTSM technology provided a practical, safe, and quick means of measuring body temperature in horses. However, its temperature readings varied depending on the implantation site. All muscle temperature readings exhibited strong relationships with TCV (r = 0.85~0.92, p < 0.05) after treadmill exercise without human intervention (water application), while the nuchal ligament temperature showed poor relationship with TCV. The relationships between TCV and PTSM temperatures became weaker with water application. Overall, however the pectoral muscle temperature measured by PTSM technology had the most constant relationships with TCV and showed the best potential to act as an alternate means of monitoring body temperature in horses for 50 min post-exercise, when there was no human intervention with cold water application.
Expansion of Canine Heartworm in Spain
Authors: Montoya-Alonso José Alberto , Morchón Rodrigo , García-Rodríguez Sara Nieves , Falcón-Cordón Yaiza , Costa-Rodríguez Noelia , Matos Jorge Isidoro , Rodríguez Escolar Iván , Carretón Elena
Published: May 2022

The climate of Spain has favourable characteristics for the development of D. immitis in dogs, being an endemic country. Given that vector-borne diseases are spreading rapidly through Europe, due to factors such as climate change, the expansion of vectors and the increased mobility of reservoir animals, the aim was to update the epidemiology of heartworm in dogs and analyse the results based on climate and other epidemiological and geo-environmental factors. To this aim, 9543 blood samples from dogs from all provinces and autonomous cities of Spain were analysed for the detection of antigens of D. immitis, obtaining a prevalence of 6.47%. The northwestern and southern provinces showed the highest prevalences, as well as in the Balearic and Canary Islands. Prevalences were higher in dogs outdoors. Furthermore, most of the positive dogs were found in regions with high humidity and water availability. This study shows, for the first time, positive cases in provinces and islands where no cases had previously been described and demonstrates the continuous expansion and consolidation of heartworm in Spain. Considering its zoonotic character, the implementation of control and awareness programmes for the prevention of D. immitis in pets is necessary.
Inter-Observer Agreement in Radiographic Diagnosis of Coxofemoral Joint Disease in a Closed Cohort of Four-Month-Old Rottweilers
Authors: Vidoni Britta , Aghapour Masoud , Kneissl Sibylle , Vezzoni Aldo , Gumpenberger Michaela , Hechinger Harald , Tichy Alexander , Bockstahler Barbara
Published: May 2022

Canine hip dysplasia is a complex and multifactorial disease. The early diagnosis of dysplastic dogs under one year of age helps veterinarians to plan proper preventive/therapeutic methods. Having an accurate screening method increases the chance of the early detection of dysplasia. The goal of our study was to assess the inter-observer reliability of eight radiographic parameters in four-month-old Rottweilers. Radiographs of the 28 Rottweilers were investigated by five experienced observers. The radiographs were taken in ventrodorsal view with extended legs, frog-leg ventrodorsal view, distraction view, and dorsal acetabular rim view. Four quantitative parameters such as Norberg angle (NA), distraction index (DI), dorsal acetabular rim slope (DARS), and center edge angle (CEA) and four qualitative parameters such as sclerosis of the cranial acetabular rim (SCAR), location of the center of the femoral head (LCFH), grading of the degenerative joint disease (GDJD), and grading of the dorsal acetabular rim (GDAR) were evaluated. High inter-observer agreements were recorded for quantitative values, whereas the inter-observer agreement of the qualitative parameters was low. It can be deduced that the evaluated quantitative parameters are reliable, and a combination of these methods with clinical examinations might increase the accuracy of the examinations.
Effects of Yeast Culture Supplementation on Growth Performance, Nutrient Digestibility, Blood Metabolites, and Immune Response in Geese
Authors: Zhang Jie , He Hang , Yuan Yancong , Wan Kun , Li Longjiao , Liu Anfang
Published: May 2022

The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary yeast culture (YC) supplementation on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, blood metabolites, and immune functions in geese. One-day-old Sichuan white geese (n = 300) were randomly divided into five groups containing 0 (control), 0.5%, 1.0%, 2.0%, and 4.0% of YC in the diet for 70 days. In general, the dietary supplementation of YC significantly increased the average daily gain and feed conversion ratio (p < 0.05) in which the 1.0% or 2.0% levels were better and significantly reduced the average daily feed intake at the 2.0% level (p < 0.05). YC supplementation increased digestibility of P (quadratic, p = 0.01) and gross energy (quadratic, p = 0.04) from days 23 to 27 and crude protein from days 23 to 27 and days 64 to 68 (quadratic, p ≤ 0.05), with the 2.0% level being the most effective. Serum metabolites were significantly affected by dietary YC (p < 0.05). Supplemental YC increased IL-2 on day 28 (linear, p = 0.01; quadratic, p = 0.04) and lysozyme on day 70 (quadratic, p = 0.04) and decreased complement C4 on day 70 (linear, p = 0.05). Interferon-γ, interleukin-2, and tumor necrosis factor-α genes were mostly up-regulated after YC supplementation, and interferon-γ and interleukin-2 gene expression levels were significantly increased at the 2.0% level (p < 0.05). Taken together, dietary YC supplementation improved growth performance and affected nutrient digestibility, serum metabolites, and immune function in geese, which was optimized at the 2% YC level in the present study.
A Comparison of Two Supplementary Doses of Vitamin A on Performance, Intestine and Immune Organ Development, as well as Gene Expression of Inflammatory Factors in Young Hy-Line Brown Laying Pullets
Authors: Chen Qinliang , Han Xiaoqing , Zhu Huiling , Liu Yulan , Xu Xiao
Published: May 2022

The objective of this study was to compare two supplementary doses (6000 vs. 12,000 IU/kg) of vitamin A (VA) on the performance, development of intestine and immune organs, as well as gene expression of inflammatory factors in young Hy-Line Brown laying pullets. A total of 288 one-day-old Hy-Line Brown laying pullets (weighing 42.15 ± 0.23 g) were allotted into two treatments with 12 replicate cages and 12 birds per cage. During the 35-day period, the pullets were fed a basal diet supplemented with different doses of VA (6000 IU/kg VA in control group; 12,000 IU/kg VA in treatment group), respectively. The results showed that supplementary high doses of VA reduced the feed-to-gain ratio from day 21 to 35 (p < 0.05). Moreover, the pullets fed high doses of VA diets had increased length and relative weight of duodenum, jejunum, and ileum (p < 0.05). From observations on morphology, high doses of VA diets increased the villus height and the ratio of villus height to crypt depth in the jejunum and ileum (p < 0.05). High doses of VA diets also increased the relative weight of immune organs (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the gene expressions of inflammatory factors were decreased in the thymus of the pullets fed high doses of VA diets (p < 0.05). In summary, supplementary 12,000 IU/kg doses of VA improved performance and intestine and immune organ development, and alleviated gene expressions of inflammatory factors in young Hy-Line Brown laying pullets.
Qualitative Risk Assessment for Antimicrobial Resistance among Humans from Salmon Fillet Consumption Due to the High Use of Antibiotics against Bacterial Infections in Farmed Salmon
Authors: Salgado-Caxito Marília , Zimin-Veselkoff Natalia , Adell Aiko D. , Olivares-Pacheco Jorge , Mardones Fernando O.
Published: May 2022

Background: Worldwide, aquaculture is considered as a hotspot environment for antimicrobial resistance (AMR) due to the intense use of antibiotics in its productive systems. Chile is the second largest producer of farmed salmon worldwide, and tons of antibiotics are used to control bacterial diseases, such as Salmon Rickettsial Syndrome (SRS) and Bacterial Kidney Disease (BKD). However, studies determining the risk of consuming salmon fillets that have been treated with antibiotics during the salmon production are limited. Consulting leading experts in the field could provide a knowledge base to identify and address this question and research gaps. Methods: Multisectoral risk perception of AMR through salmon fillet consumption was evaluated by eliciting expert data obtained through discussions during a workshop and from questionnaires given to experts from academia (n = 15, 63%), the public sector (n = 5, 21%), and the salmon industry (n = 4, 17%). Results: The qualitative risk analysis suggested an overall ‘low’ probability of AMR acquisition by consumption of salmon fillet that had been treated during the production cycle. The risk perception varied slightly between production stages in freshwater and seawater. In consensus with all sectors, this overall ‘low’, but existing, risk was probably associated with bacterial infections and the use of antibiotics. Conclusions: As it is essential to reduce the use of antibiotics in the Chilean salmon industry, this intersectoral approach and consensual results could favor effective implementation of targeted initiatives for the control and prevention of major bacterial diseases.
The Role and Mechanism of Essential Selenoproteins for Homeostasis
Authors: Ye Ruihua , Huang Jiaqiang , Wang Zixu , Chen Yaoxing , Dong Yulan
Published: May 2022

Selenium (Se) is one of the essential trace elements that plays a biological role in the body, mainly in the form of selenoproteins. Selenoproteins can be involved in the regulation of oxidative stress, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, antioxidant defense, immune and inflammatory responses and other biological processes, including antioxidant, anti-inflammation, anti-apoptosis, the regulation of immune response and other functions. Over-loading or lack of Se causes certain damage to the body. Se deficiency can reduce the expression and activity of selenoproteins, disrupt the normal physiological function of cells and affect the body in antioxidant, immunity, toxin antagonism, signaling pathways and other aspects, thus causing different degrees of damage to the body. Se intake is mainly in the form of dietary supplements. Due to the important role of Se, people pay increasingly more attention to Se-enriched foods, which also lays a foundation for better research on the mechanism of selenoproteins in the future. In this paper, the synthesis and mechanism of selenoproteins, as well as the role and mechanism of selenoproteins in the regulation of diseases, are reviewed. Meanwhile, the future development of Se-enriched products is prospected, which is of great significance to further understand the role of Se.
The Antioxidant Effect of Natural Antimicrobials in Shrimp Primary Intestinal Cells Infected with Nematopsis messor
Authors: Balta Igori , Stef Lavinia , Butucel Eugenia , Gradisteanu Pircalabioru Gratiela , Venig Adelina , Ward Patrick , Deshaies Myriam , Pet Ioan , Stef Ducu , Koyun Osman Y. , Callaway Todd R. , Gundogdu Ozan , Corcionivoschi Nicolae
Published: May 2022

Nematopsis messor infections severely impact on shrimp’s health with devastating economic consequences on shrimp farming. In a shrimp primary intestinal cells (SGP) model of infection, a sub-inhibitory concentration (0.5%) of natural antimicrobials (Aq) was able to reduce the ability of N. messor to infect (p < 0.0001). To prevent N. messor infection of SGP cells, Aq inhibits host actin polymerization and restores tight junction integrity (TEER) and the expression of Zo-1 and occluding. The oxidative burst, caused by N. messor infection, is attenuated by Aq through the inhibition of NADPH-produced H2O2. Simultaneous to the reduction in H2O2 released, the activity of catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were also significantly increase (p < 0.0001). The antimicrobial mixture inactivates the ERK signal transduction pathway by tyrosine dephosphorylation and reduces the expression of DCR2, ALF-A, and ALF-C antimicrobial peptides. The observed in vitro results were also translated in vivo, whereby the use of a shrimp challenge test, we show that in N. messor infected shrimp the mortality rate was 68% compared to the Aq-treated group where the mortality rate was maintained at 14%. The significant increase in CAT and SOD activity in treated and infected shrimp suggested an in vivo antioxidant role for Aq. In conclusion, our study shows that Aq can efficiently reduce N. messor colonization of shrimp’s intestinal cells in vitro and in vivo and the oxidative induced cellular damage, repairs epithelial integrity, and enhances gut immunity.
Inversion Method of Tidal Level Based on GNSS Triple-Frequency, Geometry-Free, Non-Ionospheric Phase Combination
Authors: You Gaochong , Guo Hang , Wu Jianfeng , Yu Min
Published: May 2022

Using the navigation signal transmitted by GNSS (global navigation satellite system), satellites for tide level monitoring comprise one of the important research fields of GNSS marine remote sensing. Regarding the problem that GNSS-MR (multipath reflectometry) technology only uses carrier SNR (signal noise ratio) data, resulting in the lack of SNR data for early CORS (continuously operating reference stations) stations, it is impossible to carry out tide level inversion. In this paper, a method of tide level inversion based on triple-frequency geometric ionospheric free combined-phase observations instead of SNR is proposed. The simultaneous interpretation of GNSS satellite observations from the sc02 station in Friday Harbor in the US is carried out and compared with the traditional GNSS-IR (interference and reflectometry) tide-inversion method. The experimental results show that the tide level inversion method proposed in this paper has the same tide level trend as the measured tide level trend. The accuracy evaluation shows that the RMSE value of tide level inversion is 15 cm and the correlation coefficient r is 0.984, which verifies the effectiveness of this method for tide level monitoring and expands the method of GNSS tide-level monitoring.
Provider Fairness for Diversity and Coverage in Multi-Stakeholder Recommender Systems
Authors: Karakolis Evangelos , Kokkinakos Panagiotis , Askounis Dimitrios
Published: May 2022

Nowadays, recommender systems (RS) are no longer evaluated only for the accuracy of their recommendations. Instead, there is a requirement for other metrics (e.g., coverage, diversity, serendipity) to be taken into account as well. In this context, the multi-stakeholder RS paradigm (MSRS) has gained significant popularity, as it takes into consideration all beneficiaries involved, from item providers to simple users. In this paper, the goal is to provide fair recommendations across item providers in terms of diversity and coverage for users to whom each provider’s items are recommended. This is achieved by following the methodology provided by the literature for solving the recommendation problem as an optimization problem under constraints for coverage and diversity. As the constraints for diversity are quadratic and cannot be solved in sufficient time (NP-Hard problem), we propose a heuristic approach that provides solutions very close to the optimal one, as the proposed approach in the literature for solving diversity constraints was too generic. As a next step, we evaluate the results and identify several weaknesses in the problem formulation as provided in the literature. To this end, we introduce new formulations for diversity and provide a new heuristic approach for the solution of the new optimization problem.
A Dynamic Hysteresis Model for TMR-Current Sensors Based on Probability Estimation of Hysteresis Operator and Its Switching Time
Authors: Li Yutao , Wang Liliang , Yu Hao , An Jiayi , Pei Yan , Qian Zheng
Published: May 2022

Hysteresis is one of the main factors affecting the measurement accuracy of TMR sensors, especially in dynamic measurements. The commonly used Preisach hysteresis compensation model has some problems, such as complex modeling and difficulty in accurately measuring the step time, resulting in low accuracy in dynamic measurements. In this paper, considering the distribution characteristics of the conversion time of the hysteresis operator in dynamic measurements, a dynamic hysteresis model based on the probability estimation of the hysteresis operator and its conversion time is proposed. Compared with the existing methods, this method only needs to calculate the distribution of the sensor hysteresis operator to realize the calculation of hysteresis characteristics without a physical model or fitting algorithm. It has good generalization performance and a corresponding fast speed. In the test of two typical TMR sensors, compared with the transmission Preisach model, the maximum error of this method is reduced by 46.7%, the variance can be reduced by 90.2%, and the average value can be reduced by 65.1%.
Evaluation and Prediction of Higher Education System Based on AHP-TOPSIS and LSTM Neural Network
Authors: Wang Na , Ren Ziru , Zhang Zheng , Fu Junsong
Published: May 2022

A healthy and sustainable higher education system plays an important role in social development. The evaluation and prediction of such a system are vital for higher education. Existing models are usually constructed based on fewer indicators and original data are incomplete; thus, evaluation may be inefficient. In addition, these models are generally suitable for specific countries, rather than the whole universe. To tackle these issues, we proceed as follows: Firstly, we select a series of evaluation indicators that cover most aspects of higher education to establish a basic evaluation system. Then, we choose several representative countries to illustrate the system. Next, we use the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) to calculate a weight matrix of the indicators according to their importance. Furthermore, we obtain authoritative data from these countries. Then, we apply the indicators to the technique for order preference by similarity to an ideal solution (TOPSIS) algorithm to ascertain their relative levels. Finally, we combine the weight matrix with the relative levels to achieve a comprehensive evaluation of higher education. So far, a theoretical establishment of a higher education evaluation model has been generally completed. For better practical application, we add a predictive function to our evaluation model. Starting with China, we predict the development of national higher education for the next 20 years. We adopt a long short-term memory (LSTM) neural network as a method of prediction. Considering the significant influences of national policies on higher education, we address the issues under two circumstances: with or without policy influences. At last, we compare our model with existing models. Experimental results show that our model better reflects national higher education levels and provides more reasonable and robust prediction results.
A Hybrid Deep Residual Network for Efficient Transitional Activity Recognition Based on Wearable Sensors
Authors: Mekruksavanich Sakorn , Hnoohom Narit , Jitpattanakul Anuchit
Published: May 2022

Numerous learning-based techniques for effective human behavior identification have emerged in recent years. These techniques focus only on fundamental human activities, excluding transitional activities due to their infrequent occurrence and short period. Nevertheless, postural transitions play a critical role in implementing a system for recognizing human activity and cannot be ignored. This study aims to present a hybrid deep residual model for transitional activity recognition utilizing signal data from wearable sensors. The developed model enhances the ResNet model with hybrid Squeeze-and-Excitation (SE) residual blocks combining a Bidirectional Gated Recurrent Unit (BiGRU) to extract deep spatio-temporal features hierarchically, and to distinguish transitional activities efficiently. To evaluate recognition performance, the experiments are conducted on two public benchmark datasets (HAPT and MobiAct v2.0). The proposed hybrid approach achieved classification accuracies of 98.03% and 98.92% for the HAPT and MobiAct v2.0 datasets, respectively. Moreover, the outcomes show that the proposed method is superior to the state-of-the-art methods in terms of overall accuracy. To analyze the improvement, we have investigated the effects of combining SE modules and BiGRUs into the deep residual network. The findings indicates that the SE module is efficient in improving transitional activity recognition.
Exploring the Probiotic Potential of Dairy Industrial-Relevant Lactobacilli
Authors: Rocchetti Maria Teresa , Russo Pasquale , Spano Giuseppe , De Santis Letizia , Iarusso Ilenia , De Simone Nicola , Brahimi Samira , Fiocco Daniela , Capozzi Vittorio
Published: May 2022

Usually, the search for new candidate probiotics starts from strain isolation, followed by genotypic and phenotypic characterisations. For the best candidates, the final selection criteria, i.e., an efficient biomass production and the survival to stressful conservation processes, may often represent a bottleneck. The aim of this study is to reverse this classic bottom-up approach, thereby evaluating the in vitro probiotic properties of microbes that are already commercialized and employed in the dairy sector. The major advantage of reversing the traditional scheme is to deal with strains that are already suitable for the scale-up at the industrial level. In this work, four lactobacilli strains were analysed, belonging to the species of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (strains PLA and PLA2) and Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus (strains PAR4 and RHM). Both L. plantarum strains showed the best survival under simulated oro-gastrointestinal stress; PLA and PAR4 had the strongest inhibitory activity against all the tested harmful bacteria, with the latter strain showing also the highest percentage of Caco-2 adhesion; RHM was the best biofilm producer on abiotic surface. Finally, cell-free surnatants from all the strain cultures exhibited anti-inflammatory action on THP-1 macrophages. For all the studied strains, it is possible to claim beneficial functional properties other than the technological ones for which they are already marketed. The possible use of the four strains in a mixture could represent a strategy to diversify and maximize their beneficial potential. Nonetheless, future studies are necessary to validate in vivo the observed beneficial properties and to evaluate any effect of the vehicle product on the probiotic aptitude.
Effect of the Maxillary Sinus on Tooth Movement during Orthodontics Based on Biomechanical Responses of Periodontal Ligaments
Authors: Liu Xin , Liu Mao , Wu Bin , Liu Jingjing , Tang Wencheng , Yan Bin
Published: May 2022

The maxillary sinus is a common anatomic limitation for orthodontic tooth movement. The effect of orthodontic forces on a particular anatomy can be studied using finite element analysis (FEA). Our study aimed to determine the effect of different tooth penetration depths into the maxillary sinus floor (MSF) on the orthodontic force system for bodily tooth movement. Using the cone-beam computed tomography of a patient with low MSF, we modeled the geometry of canine, premolar, and molar teeth with their periodontal ligaments and the alveolar bone surrounding them. The models were manually modified to simulate different root penetration depths. Thereafter, the center of resistance and stress distributions for teeth penetrating into the MS were determined using FEA. Moreover, the force systems for teeth with a low MSF to varying degree were evaluated based on the FEA results. During orthodontic tooth movement, the individual differences in the periodontal anatomy should be considered. The CR position decreases with the penetration depth, while the average hydrostatic stress in the PDL increases rapidly. In this paper, we present the correction coefficients of the orthodontic force and moment for a tooth penetrating into the MSF, which is necessary for personalized treatment planning.
A Method for Degenerate Primer Design Based on Artificial Bee Colony Algorithm
Authors: Liu Ruhui , Ning Jiaxu , Jiang Yueqiu , Wang Xianghe , Wu Jiaxuan
Published: May 2022

Aiming to address the complex degenerate primer design problem in the biological field, in this paper, we design a degenerate primer optimization model considering primer coverage and degeneracy that allows a small number of base mismatches, and propose a global optimization method based on the artificial bee colony algorithm. The proposed algorithm combines the idea of the ant colony algorithm with the optimization process of the artificial bee colony algorithm, overcomes the disadvantage of the uncertain candidate solution length of the artificial bee colony algorithm in solving discrete optimization problems, designs the search space model according to the construction process of candidate solution in ant colony optimization algorithm, and redesigns various bee foraging strategies according to the optimization process information. In the comparative experiments on DNA template sequences of different scales, the degenerate primer designed by the proposed algorithm is superior to the existing methods in terms of stability, specificity, coverage and degeneracy.
RBF Sliding Mode Control Method for an Upper Limb Rehabilitation Exoskeleton Based on Intent Recognition
Authors: Kong Dezhi , Wang Wendong , Guo Dong , Shi Yikai
Published: May 2022

Aiming at the lack of active willingness of patients to participate in the current upper limb exoskeleton rehabilitation training control methods, this study proposed a radial basis function (RBF) sliding mode impedance control method based on surface electromyography (sEMG) to identify the movement intention of upper limb rehabilitation. The proposed control method realizes the process of active and passive rehabilitation training according to the wearer’s movement intention. This study first established a joint angle prediction model based on sEMG for the problem of poor human–machine coupling and used the least-squares support vector machine method (LSSVM) to complete the upper limb joint angle prediction. In addition, in view of the problem of poor compliance in the rehabilitation training process, an adaptive sliding mode controller based on the RBF network approximation system model was proposed. In the process of active training, an impedance model was added based on the position loop control, which could dynamically adjust the motion trajectory according to the interaction force. The experiment results showed that the impedance control method based on the RBF could effectively reduce the interaction force between the human and machine to improve the compliance of the exoskeleton manipulator and achieve the purpose of stabilizing the impedance characteristics of the system.
ZnO@MoS2 Core–Shell Heterostructures Enabling Improved Photocatalytic Performance
Authors: Zhong Yu , Wang Fengming , Liang Chuangming , Guan Zeyi , Lu Bingshang , He Xin , Yang Weijia
Published: May 2022

This work reports the fabrication of ZnO@MoS2 core–shell micro/nanomaterials and their photocatalytic performances. First, the ZnO@MoS2 core–shell micro/nanorods heterostructures were grown by a two-step, hydrothermal method. Second, X-ray diffraction, scanning-electron microscopy, Raman spectra, and UV-visible spectra were applied to confirm and characterize the ZnO@MoS2 core–shell micro/nanorods. Third, methylene blue was employed to investigate the photocatalytic performance of the ZnO@MoS2 core–shell micro/nanorods heterostructures. It was found that the shape of the MoS2 shell layer depended on the growth time. The shell layer was composed of MoS2 nanoparticles before the growth time of 6 h and then turned into MoS2 nanosheets. It was also found that the photocatalytic performance was significantly affected by the growth time of the MoS2 nanosheets. When the growth time of the MoS2 nanosheets was between 6 and 10 h, ZnO@MoS2 core–shell heterostructures grown for 6 h exhibited a best photocatalytic efficiency value of 69.24% after 3 h catalysis.
Automatic Detection of Electric Field VLF Electromagnetic Wave Abnormal Disturbance on Zhangheng-1 Satellite
Authors: Han Ying , Yuan Jing , Huang Jianping , Li Zhong , Shen Xuhui
Published: May 2022

Ionosphere disturbances are mainly caused by solar activities and earth surface activities. Different electromagnetic wave disturbances show different shapes on the spectrogram, such as artificial very low frequency transmitting stations, power systems, and satellite platform disturbances which all show a horizontal shape. Due to the electric field coupling or superposition by other electromagnetic disturbances, the horizontal electromagnetic wave clarity on the spectrogram is reduced, interrupted, or disappears. Aiming at this phenomenon, based on computer vision technology, this paper proposes an automatic detection and recognition algorithm for the space electric field abnormal interference. Firstly, the horizontal electromagnetic wave on the spectrogram is detected, and then the detected window density on the horizontal line is counted. We then record and save the density anomaly windows on multiple horizontal lines at the same time, so as to realize the electric field anomaly disturbance automatic detection. The accuracy of the algorithm for detecting continuous electromagnetic wave disturbance with a wide frequency and time interval is up to 98.2%. Through the space electromagnetic disturbances automatic identification from massive data, combined with space events and multi-dimensional information, such as time, space and orbit, it is helpful to further find out the global space-time transformation laws of space events.
Taylor’s Formula for Generalized Weighted Fractional Derivatives with Nonsingular Kernels
Authors: Zine Houssine , Lotfi El Mehdi , Torres Delfim F. M. , Yousfi Noura
Published: May 2022

We prove a new Taylor’s theorem for generalized weighted fractional calculus with nonsingular kernels. The proof is based on the establishment of new relations for nth-weighted generalized fractional integrals and derivatives. As an application, new mean value theorems for generalized weighted fractional operators are obtained. Direct corollaries allow one to obtain the recent Taylor’s and mean value theorems for Caputo–Fabrizio, Atangana–Baleanu–Caputo (ABC) and weighted ABC derivatives.
Climate-Growth Relationships of Chinese Pine (Pinus tabulaeformis Carr.) at Mt. Shiren in Climatic Transition Zone, Central China
Authors: Peng Jianfeng , Li Jinbao , Li Xuan , Cui Jiayue , Peng Meng
Published: May 2022

Tree ring data from the southern boundary of Chinese Pine (Pinus tabulaeformis Carr.) distribution where is the southern warm temperate margin, the paper analyzes the response of climate factors along north–south direction to tree growth. The results show that temperature and precipitation in May–June and relative moisture from March to June are main limiting factors on trees growth; however, the temperature in the south of the mountains and the moisture in the north of the mountains have relatively greater influence on trees’ growth. Additionally, we also found that the regional scPDSIMJ (that is scPDSI in May–June) was the most significant and stable factor limiting tree growth to be used for reconstruction. The reconstructed scPDSIMJ revealed that there were 29 extremely dry years and 30 extremely wet years during 1801–2016, and it could represent the drought variation in central and eastern monsoon region. The variation exists in good agreement with the reconstructed PDSI for Mt. Shennong and the drought/wetness series in Zhengzhou. Further research found that the droughts of May–June in central China were mainly impacted by local temperature and moisture (including precipitation, soil moisture, potential evaporation and water pressure), and then by the northern Pacific Ocean and the northern Atlantic Ocean. These results may provide better understanding of May–June drought variation and service for agricultural production in central China.
Phyloepigenetics
Authors: Santourlidis Simeon
Published: May 2022

Traditionally, phylogenetic interspecies relationships are estimated based on genetic diversity, since it is assumed that the more recently diverged a species, with comparable constancy of development, the more similar their genetic material and proteins should be. However, occasional controversies in the field may reflect limited resolution and accuracy of this approach. Epigenetics has, meanwhile, provided significant evidence that CpG dinucleotides (CpGs) within genetic material are of particular importance for the annotation and function of the genome and the formation of the phenotype, which is continuously shaped by evolutionary interaction with environmental factors. Based on this, it can be concluded that CpGs follow a distinct rate of evolution, compared to all other nucleotide positions. Evidence is provided that supports this conclusion. Therefore, using CpGs to fathom evolutionary relationships between species could turn out to be a valuable approach to achieve, in some cases, an improved understanding of evolutionary development.
Ferritin-Based Single-Electron Devices
Authors: Labra-Muñoz Jacqueline A. , de Reuver Arie , Koeleman Friso , Huber Martina , van der Zant Herre S. J.
Published: May 2022

We report on the fabrication of single-electron devices based on horse-spleen ferritin particles. At low temperatures the current vs. voltage characteristics are stable, enabling the acquisition of reproducible data that establishes the Coulomb blockade as the main transport mechanism through them. Excellent agreement between the experimental data and the Coulomb blockade theory is demonstrated. Single-electron charge transport in ferritin, thus, establishes a route for further characterization of their, e.g., magnetic, properties down to the single-particle level, with prospects for electronic and medical applications.
Gal-2 Increases H3K4me3 and H3K9ac in Trophoblasts and Preeclampsia
Authors: Hahn Laura , Meister Sarah , Mannewitz Mareike , Beyer Susanne , Corradini Stefanie , Hasbargen Uwe , Mahner Sven , Jeschke Udo , Kolben Thomas , Burges Alexander
Published: May 2022

Preeclampsia (PE) is a severe pregnancy disorder with a pathophysiology not yet completely understood and without curative therapy. The histone modifications H3K4me3 and H3K9ac, as well as galectin-2 (Gal-2), are known to be decreased in PE. To gain a better understanding of the development of PE, the influence of Gal-2 on histone modification in trophoblasts and in syncytialisation was investigated. Immunohistochemical stains of 13 PE and 13 control placentas were correlated, followed by cell culture experiments. An analysis of H3K4me3 and H3K9ac was conducted, as well as cell fusion staining with E-cadherin and β-catenin—both after incubation with Gal-2. The expression of H3K4me3 and H3K9ac correlated significantly with the expression of Gal-2. Furthermore, we detected an increase in H3K4me3 and H3K9ac after the addition of Gal-2 to BeWo/HVT cells. Moreover, there was increased fusion of HVT cells after incubation with Gal-2. Gal-2 is associated with the histone modifications H3K4me3 and H3K9ac in trophoblasts. Furthermore, syncytialisation increased after incubation with Gal-2. Therefore, we postulate that Gal-2 stimulates syncytialisation, possibly mediated by H3K4me3 and H3K9ac. Since Gal-2, as well as H3K4me3 and H3K9ac, are decreased in PE, the induction of Gal-2 might be a promising therapeutic target.
Artemisia dracunculus L. Ethanolic Extract and an Isolated Component, DMC2, Ameliorate Inflammatory Signaling in Pancreatic β-Cells via Inhibition of p38 MAPK
Authors: Smoak Peter , Burke Susan J. , Martin Thomas M. , Batdorf Heidi M. , Floyd Z. Elizabeth , Collier J. Jason
Published: May 2022

Non-resolving pancreatic islet inflammation is widely viewed as a contributor to decreases in β-cell mass and function that occur in both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Therefore, strategies aimed at reducing or eliminating pathological inflammation would be useful to protect islet β-cells. Herein, we described the use of 2′,4′-dihydroxy-4-methoxydihydrochalcone (DMC2), a bioactive molecule isolated from an ethanolic extract of Artemisia dracunculus L., as a novel anti-inflammatory agent. The ethanolic extract, termed PMI 5011, reduced IL-1β-mediated NF-κB activity. DMC2 retained this ability, indicating this compound as the likely source of anti-inflammatory activity within the overall PMI 5011 extract. We further examined NF-κB activity using promoter-luciferase reporter constructs, Western blots, mRNA abundance, and protein secretion. Specifically, we found that PMI 5011 and DMC2 each reduced the ability of IL-1β to promote increases in the expression of the Ccl2 and Ccl20 genes. These genes encode proteins that promote immune cell recruitment and are secreted by β-cells in response to IL-1β. Phosphorylation of IκBα and the p65 subunit of NF-κB were not reduced by either PMI 5011 or DMC2; however, phosphorylation of p38 MAPK was blunted in the presence of DMC2. Finally, we observed that while PMI 5011 impaired glucose-stimulated insulin secretion, insulin output was preserved in the presence of DMC2. In conclusion, PMI 5011 and DMC2 reduced inflammation, but only DMC2 did so with the preservation of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion.
Adeno-Associated Viruses for Modeling Neurological Diseases in Animals: Achievements and Prospects
Authors: Lunev Evgenii , Karan Anna , Egorova Tatiana , Bardina Maryana
Published: May 2022

Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors have become an attractive tool for efficient gene transfer into animal tissues. Extensively studied as the vehicles for therapeutic constructs in gene therapy, AAVs are also applied for creating animal models of human genetic disorders. Neurological disorders are challenging to model in laboratory animals by transgenesis or genome editing, at least partially due to the embryonic lethality and the timing of the disease onset. Therefore, gene transfer with AAV vectors provides a more flexible option for simulating genetic neurological disorders. Indeed, the design of the AAV expression construct allows the reproduction of various disease-causing mutations, and also drives neuron-specific expression. The natural and newly created AAV serotypes combined with various delivery routes enable differentially targeting neuronal cell types and brain areas in vivo. Moreover, the same viral vector can be used to reproduce the main features of the disorder in mice, rats, and large laboratory animals such as non-human primates. The current review demonstrates the general principles for the development and use of AAVs in modeling neurological diseases. The latest achievements in AAV-mediated modeling of the common (e.g., Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, ataxias, etc.) and ultra-rare disorders affecting the central nervous system are described. The use of AAVs to create multiple animal models of neurological disorders opens opportunities for studying their mechanisms, understanding the main pathological features, and testing therapeutic approaches.