bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Study of Chicken Manure and Steel Slag Amelioration to Mitigate Greenhouse Gas Emission in Rice Cultivation
Authors: Fauzan Muhammad Iqbal , Anwar Syaiful , Nugroho Budi , Ueno Hideto , Toma Yo
Published: July 2021

Organic matter, fertilizers, and soil amendments are essential for sustainable agricultural practices to guarantee soil productivity. However, these materials can increase the emission of greenhouse gases (GHGs) such as CH4 and N2O. Thus, technologies for reducing GHG emissions in concert with the increase in rice production from rice fields are needed. The objectives of this study were to determine the best chicken manure (CM) and steel slag (SS) combination to mitigate CH4, N2O, and CO2 emissions in an incubation experiment, to identify the best CM:SS ameliorant mixture to mitigate CH4 and N2O, and to evaluate dry biomass and grain yield in a pot experiment. A randomized block design was established with four treatments, namely conventional (chemical fertilizer only) and three combinations of different ratios of CM and SS (1:1, 1:1.5, and 1:2.5), with five replications in a pot experiment. CM:SS (1:2.5) was identified as the best treatment for mitigating CH4, N2O, and CO2 in the incubation experiment. However, CM:SS (1:1.5) was the best CM and SS ameliorant for mitigating CH4 and N2O in the pot experiment. The global warming potential of CH4 and N2O revealed that CM:SS (1:1.5) had the lowest value. None of the combinations of CM and SS significantly increased dry biomass and grain yield.
The Effects of Soil Compaction and Different Tillage Systems on the Bulk Density and Moisture Content of Soil and the Yields of Winter Oilseed Rape and Cereals
Authors: Orzech Krzysztof , Wanic Maria , Załuski Dariusz
Published: July 2021

Progressive soil compaction is a disadvantage of intensive tillage. Compaction exerts a negative impact on the physical properties of soil and decreases crop performance. The adverse effects of soil compaction can be mitigated by replacing conventional tillage with simplified tillage techniques. Simplified tillage exerts a protective effect on soil, reduces production costs and preserves agricultural ecosystems. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of compaction and different tillage methods on the bulk density and moisture content of soil. The experimental factors were as follows: Soil compaction before sowing (non-compacted control treatment and experimental treatments where soil was compacted after the harvest of the preceding crop) and four different methods of seedbed preparation in a three-field rotation system (winter oilseed rape, winter wheat, spring barley). The influence of compaction on the bulk density and moisture content of soil varied across the rotated crops and their developmental stages. Soil compaction had no significant effect on the analyzed parameters in the cultivation of winter oilseed rape. In treatments sown with winter wheat, soil compaction resulted in significantly lower soil density and significantly higher soil moisture content. In plots sown with spring barley, soil compaction led to a significant increase in the values of both parameters. The average bulk density of soil after various tillage operations in the examined crop rotation system ranged from 1.49–1.69 g·m−3 (winter oilseed rape), 1.47–1.59 g·m−3 (winter wheat), 1.47–1.61 g·m−3 (spring barley). The bulk density and moisture content of soil were lowest after conventional tillage (control treatment) and higher after simplified tillage. Regardless of soil compaction, the greatest reduction in winter oilseed rape yields was noted in response to skimming, harrowing and the absence of pre-sowing plowing. Spring barley yields were higher in non-compacted treatments, whereas the reverse was observed in winter wheat. Chisel plowing and single plowing induced the greatest decrease in wheat yields relative to conventional tillage. Single plowing significantly decreased the grain yield of spring barley relative to the tillage system that involved skimming and fall plowing to a depth of 25.
Nutraceutical Potential of the Low Deciduous Forest to Improve Small Ruminant Nutrition and Health: A Systematic Review
Authors: Torres-Fajardo Rafael Arturo , González-Pech Pedro Geraldo , Torres-Acosta Juan Felipe de Jesús , Sandoval-Castro Carlos Alfredo
Published: July 2021

Nutraceuticals are defined as livestock feeds that combine their nutritional value with their beneficial effects on animal health. We analyzed the outcomes from nearly 20 years of research assessing the nutraceutical properties of plants consumed by sheep and goats in low deciduous forests. A systematic review of different databases suggested 31 peer-reviewed manuscripts according to pre-established criteria. Amongst these, 16 manuscripts described in vitro evaluations investigating the bioactivity of plant secondary compounds in the extracts of 12 plant species. Most of these studies used the abomasal nematode Haemonchus contortus as the parasite model. Meanwhile, 11 manuscripts reported in vivo trials under controlled pen conditions, evaluating the relationships between the intake of leaves from different plant species and their secondary compounds and animal nutrition, performance, and gastrointestinal nematode infections. Additionally, four manuscripts described studies under natural feeding conditions. Altogether, the studies showed the inherent complexity of the relationship between small ruminants, plants, nutrients, secondary compounds, and gastrointestinal nematodes in natural feeding systems. Several plant species can be considered good candidates for nutraceutical use. Our findings warrant future work to understand the relationship between plants, ruminants, and their parasites, with the aim to improve the sustainability of production systems based on the native vegetation of tropical forests.
Two Almond Cultivars Trained in a Super-High Density Orchard Show Different Growth, Yield Efficiencies and Damages by Mechanical Harvesting
Authors: Maldera Francesco , Vivaldi Gaetano Alessandro , Iglesias-Castellarnau Ignasi , Camposeo Salvatore
Published: July 2021

Modern almond growing travels on the tracks of super-high density (SHD). Born in 2010, it has already reached 6700 ha planted all over the world. This new cultivation system needs to define efficient agronomic techniques in order to identify it as a “Super-Efficient System”. Among these, the choice of cultivar is a crucial technique and a key factor for sustainability. The purpose of this study was to compare different cultivars in terms of vegetative, productive, and efficiencies parameters in order to gain applicable relevant knowledge about the SHD almond cultivation technique. For this, 3 years of research was carried out during 2017–2019, on a young almond grove made in 2014 with row spacing of 3.80 m × 1.20 m (2190 trees/ha), to evaluate the agronomic behavior of the two most planted cultivars in Italy, Guara-Tuono and Lauranne® Avijor, grafted on the Rootpac®20 dwarfing rootstock. The main biometric, productive, yield, mechanical harvesting efficiencies, and almond quality parameters were evaluated. Cv Lauranne® showed greater vigor, greater fruit yield, and damaged axes by mechanical harvesting, while higher values of yield efficiencies were observed for cv Tuono. Harvesting efficiency was related to canopy size and tree age. On the contrary, almonds quality parameters were strongly related to the cultivar, confirming the good performance of Tuono as varietal characters. Then, this cultivar seems to be the most suitable for an efficient SHD planting system, in line with the objectives of modern sustainable fruit growing. The better performance of cv Tuono could be related to the positive influence of the terroir as well.
The Effect of Geographical Indications (GIs) on the Koerintji Cinnamon Sales Price and Information of Origin
Authors: Menggala Sidi Rana , Vanhove Wouter , Muhammad Dimas Rahadian Aji , Rahman Abdur , Speelman Stijn , Van Damme Patrick
Published: July 2021

This paper focuses on the impact of the geographical indications (GIs) of Koerintji cinnamon on its value chain. The study was performed from September 2017 to November 2017 in Talang Kemuning, Kerinci regency, Indonesia. A village farmers’ group was surveyed using a semi-structured questionnaire, roundtable discussions, interviews, and direct observations to understand whether the GIs improve income, source of production, and promote product quality. Using a descriptive method, the literature on the topic was analyzed, and a value chain study was structured from the review’s findings. This helped us to better understand how GIs’ effects are dispersed among the chain actors and eventually enter the areas from which GI commodities originate. GIs generate added value, especially for farmers and buyers. Specifically, by using the GI Koerintji cinnamon’s handbook of requirements, the efficiency of farmers and buyers has improved. The studied population included farmers from Koerintji Cinnamon Jambi Geographical Indication Protection Society (MPIG-K2J) and Tani Saktik Alam Kerinci (TAKTIK), a farmer group. To obtain a GI, TAKTIK had to implement good agriculture practices and good manufacturing practices based on the handbook. Results show that farmers developed a system to monitor post-harvest handling in assuring a safe and high-quality supply to the global spices market. Following the book requirements, TAKTIK members follow specific procedures, including selecting raw materials, grading, origin verification, and quality control. Furthermore, GIs enable farmers to claim a price premium. As a result, GI Koerintji cinnamon’s presence has added value and credibility to TAKTIK farmers, leading to price improvement.
Quantitative Determination of the Effects of He–Ne Laser Irradiation on Seed Thermodynamics, Germination Attributes and Metabolites of Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) in Relation with the Activities of Germination Enzymes
Authors: Perveen Rashida , Wang Xiukang , Jamil Yasir , Ali Qasim , Ali Shafaqat , Zakaria Muhammad Qaisar , Afzaal Muhammad , Kasana Rehan Ahmed , Saleem Muhammad Hamzah , Fiaz Sajid
Published: July 2021

The present investigation was undertaken to assess the effects of different doses (100, 300, and 500 mJ) of low power He–Ne laser (632.8 nm) irradiation on seed germination and thermodynamics attributes and activities of potential germinating enzymes in relation with changes in seed metabolites. He–Ne laser seed irradiation increased the amylase (Amy), protease (Pro) and glucosidase (Gluco) activities, with a significant improvement in seed thermodynamics and seed germination attributes. A fast increase was found in free fatty acids (FFA), free amino acids (FAA), chlorophyll (Chl), carotenoids (Car), total soluble sugars (TSS) and reducing sugars (RS) in laser treated seeds in parallel with fast decline in seed oil contents and total soluble proteins (TSP). Significant positive correlations were recorded in laser-induced enhanced seed energy levels, germination, activities of germination enzymes with levels of FAA, FFA, Chl, TSS and RS, but a negative correlation with the levels of TSP and oil. In conclusion, the seed treatment with 100 and 300 mJ He–Ne laser was more effective to improve the seed germination potential associated with an improvement in seed energy levels due to increased activities of germination enzymes due to the speedy breakdown of seed reserves to simple metabolites as building blocks.
Influence of Molybdenum in Drinking Water or Feed on Copper Metabolism in Cattle—A Review
Authors: Thorndyke Meghan P. , Guimaraes Octavio , Kistner Maddie J. , Wagner John J. , Engle Terry E.
Published: July 2021

The majority of Mo research has focused on the antagonist effect of Mo, alone or in combination with elevated dietary S, on Cu absorption and metabolism in ruminants. Diets containing both >5.0 mg of Mo/kg DM and >0.33% S have been reported to reduce the Cu status in cattle and sheep. Therefore, due to the potential for inducing Cu deficiency, Mo and S concentrations in the diet should be monitored and kept within appropriate values. Elevated sulfate concentrations in drinking water can also be detrimental to livestock production, especially in ruminants. High concentrations of sulfate in water have been extensively studied in cattle because high-sulfate water induces polioencephalomalacia in ruminants. However, little research has been conducted investigating the impact of Mo in water on Cu metabolism in ruminants. Based on the limited number of published experiments, it appears that Mo in drinking water may have a lower antagonistic impact on the Cu status in cattle when compared to Mo consumed in the diet. This response may be due to a certain percentage of water bypassing the rumen when consumed by ruminants. Therefore, the objective of this review was to examine the impact of Mo in drinking water on cattle performance and Mo and Cu metabolism.
The Psychosocial Influence of Companion Animals on Positive and Negative Affect during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Kogan Lori R. , Currin-McCulloch Jennifer , Bussolari Cori , Packman Wendy , Erdman Phyllis
Published: July 2021

The initial months of COVID-19 forced people to quickly adapt to dramatic changes to their daily lives. As a result of the inevitable decrease in access to social support available during the lockdown phase of COVID-19, countless individuals relied upon their companion dogs and cats. Given the strong connections people often have with their companion animals, this study hypothesized that companion dogs and cats would positively impact guardians’ mental health. Anonymous, cross-sectional online surveys were used to test this premise. A total of 5061 responses, primarily females (89%) from the United States (84%), were analyzed. Results suggest that companion animals played a critical role in helping reduce feelings of depression, anxiety, isolation, and loneliness for a majority of pet guardians. Companion animals also helped increase guardians’ experiences of self-compassion, ability to maintain a regular schedule, feel a sense of purpose and meaning, and cope with uncertainty. This was most pronounced for women under the age of 40 who were highly bonded to their companion animal. In conclusion, our study suggests that a companion dog or cat can buffer the effects of extreme stress and social isolation as witnessed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Absence of Host-Specific Genes in Canine and Human Staphylococcus pseudintermedius as Inferred from Comparative Genomics
Authors: Wegener Alice , Broens Els M. , van der Graaf-van Bloois Linda , Zomer Aldert L. , Visser Caroline E. , van Zeijl Jan , van der Meer Coby , Kusters Johannes G. , Friedrich Alex W. , Kampinga Greetje A. , Sips Gregorius J. , Smeets Leonard , van Kerckhoven Manfred E. J. , Timmerman Arjen J. , Wagenaar Jaap A. , Duim Birgitta
Published: July 2021

Staphylococcus pseudintermedius is an important pathogen in dogs that occasionally causes infections in humans as an opportunistic pathogen of elderly and immunocompromised people. This study compared the genomic relatedness and antimicrobial resistance genes using genome-wide association study (GWAS) to examine host association of canine and human S. pseudintermedius isolates. Canine (n = 25) and human (n = 32) methicillin-susceptible S. pseudintermedius (MSSP) isolates showed a high level of genetic diversity with an overrepresentation of clonal complex CC241 in human isolates. This clonal complex was associated with carriage of a plasmid containing a bacteriocin with cytotoxic properties, a CRISPR-cas domain and a pRE25-like mobile element containing five antimicrobial resistance genes. Multi-drug resistance (MDR) was predicted in 13 (41%) of human isolates and 14 (56%) of canine isolates. CC241 represented 54% of predicted MDR isolates from humans and 21% of predicted MDR canine isolates. While it had previously been suggested that certain host-specific genes were present the current GWAS analysis did not identify any genes that were significantly associated with human or canine isolates. In conclusion, this is the first genomic study showing that MSSP is genetically diverse in both hosts and that multidrug resistance is important in dog and human-associated S. pseudintermedius isolates.
A Study of the Antioxidant, Cytotoxic Activity and Adsorption Properties of Karelian Shungite by Physicochemical Methods
Authors: Skrypnik Liubov , Babich Olga , Sukhikh Stanislav , Shishko Olga , Ivanova Svetlana , Mozhei Oleg , Kochish Ivan , Nikonov Ilia
Published: July 2021

This study reveals that fossil shungite samples exhibit antioxidant activity, can reduce oxidized components, and bind to free radicals. A sample of Sh20 (size fraction—20 μm) (1.30 mg equivalents of ascorbic acid/g of shungite; 3.46 mg equivalents of trolox/g of shungite; 0.99 mg equivalents of quercetin/g of shungite) had the maximal activity according to the amperometric method. The obtained data indicate that shungite has antioxidant properties, but these are approximately 1000 times less pronounced than those of quercetin. A ShT20 sample (size fraction—20 μm + heat treatment) was found to have the highest antioxidant activity against the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical and cytotoxicity. Further studies, including the optimization of the antioxidant extraction conditions of shungite, and the analysis of the qualitative and quantitative composition of the obtained extracts, are required for a more accurate interpretation of the results. Shungite can be applied as an alternative to activated carbon in water purification, due to its absorption, catalytic, antioxidant, regenerating, and antibacterial properties, as well as its high environmental safety and relatively low cost. It is possible to identify new structural forms of carbon within, and other valuable properties of, shungite substance, which will make it possible to create effective technologies for the practical use of shungite rocks, particularly in the production of fullerenes and other carbon nanoclusters.
Bearing Severity Fault Evaluation Using Contour Maps—Case Study
Authors: Soto-Ocampo César Ricardo , Cano-Moreno Juan David , Mera José Manuel , Maroto Joaquín
Published: July 2021

Increasing industrial competitiveness has led to an increased global interest in condition monitoring. In this sector, rotating machinery plays an important role, where the bearing is one of the most critical components. Many vibration-based signal treatments are already being used to identify features associated with bearing faults. The information embedded in such features are employed in the construction of health indicators, which allow for evaluation of the current operating status of the machine. In this work, the use of contour maps to represent the diagnosis map of a bearing, used as a health map, is presented for the first time. The results show that the proposed method is promising, allowing for the satisfactory detection and evaluation of the severity of bearing damage. In this initial stage of the research, our results suggest that this method can improve the classification of bearing faults and, therefore, optimise maintenance processes.
On the Reliability Assessment of Artificial Neural Networks Running on AI-Oriented MPSoCs
Authors: Ruospo Annachiara , Sanchez Ernesto
Published: July 2021

Nowadays, the usage of electronic devices running artificial neural networks (ANNs)-based applications is spreading in our everyday life. Due to their outstanding computational capabilities, ANNs have become appealing solutions for safety-critical systems as well. Frequently, they are considered intrinsically robust and fault tolerant for being brain-inspired and redundant computing models. However, when ANNs are deployed on resource-constrained hardware devices, single physical faults may compromise the activity of multiple neurons. Therefore, it is crucial to assess the reliability of the entire neural computing system, including both the software and the hardware components. This article systematically addresses reliability concerns for ANNs running on multiprocessor system-on-a-chips (MPSoCs). It presents a methodology to assign resilience scores to individual neurons and, based on that, schedule the workload of an ANN on the target MPSoC so that critical neurons are neatly distributed among the available processing elements. This reliability-oriented methodology exploits an integer linear programming solver to find the optimal solution. Experimental results are given for three different convolutional neural networks trained on MNIST, SVHN, and CIFAR-10. We carried out a comprehensive assessment on an open-source artificial intelligence-based RISC-V MPSoC. The results show the reliability improvements of the proposed methodology against the traditional scheduling.
High Dimension Granite Pavement Bio-Desalination Practical Implementation
Authors: Bosch-Roig Pilar , Pérez-Castro Lourdes , Fernández-Santiago Ángeles , Bosch Ignacio
Published: July 2021

Biocleaning technology is based on the use of safe environmental microorganisms for green cultural heritage (CH) restoration. Compared with traditional cleaning products, this biological technique is very specific, effective, and nontoxic. This innovative biotechnological application has been used for recovering diverse monuments and artworks. Most CH in situ surfaces that are treated with microorganisms are small areas; however, some important pathologies, such as salt contamination, can affect high dimension artistic surfaces. The purpose of this study is to analyze and overcome the problems and limitations of scaling up the bio-desalination protocol for in situ applications. Three water-based gel delivery systems and three heating systems were tested in situ and evaluated in terms of performance difficulty, efficacy, and costs. The tests were carried out on the salt contaminated granite pavement of Cristo Chapel of Sta Ma de Conxo in Santiago de Compostela (Spain). Ground agar 2% and a heating electric mat were selected as the best performing systems. The implemented protocol was applied for the bio-desalination of the 233 m2 Chapel pavement. Conductivity, nitrate–nitrite measurements, biological monitoring, and digital image analysis were performed to determine the efficacy of the treatment. This research allowed for the development of an innovative and optimized in situ, high dimension bio-desalination application protocol transferable to other large scale, in situ biocleaning strategies.
New Vector-Space Embeddings for Recommender Systems
Authors: Rizkallah Sandra , Atiya Amir F. , Shaheen Samir
Published: July 2021

In this work, we propose a novel recommender system model based on a technology commonly used in natural language processing called word vector embedding. In this technology, a word is represented by a vector that is embedded in an n-dimensional space. The distance between two vectors expresses the level of similarity/dissimilarity of their underlying words. Since item similarities and user similarities are the basis of designing a successful collaborative filtering, vector embedding seems to be a good candidate. As opposed to words, we propose a vector embedding approach for learning vectors for items and users. There have been very few recent applications of vector embeddings in recommender systems, but they have limitations in the type of formulations that are applicable. We propose a novel vector embedding that is versatile, in the sense that it is applicable for the prediction of ratings and for the recommendation of top items that are likely to appeal to users. It could also possibly take into account content-based features and demographic information. The approach is a simple relaxation algorithm that optimizes an objective function, defined based on target users’, items’ or joint user–item’s similarities in their respective vector spaces. The proposed approach is evaluated using real life datasets such as “MovieLens”, “ModCloth”, “Amazon: Magazine_Subscriptions” and “Online Retail”. The obtained results are compared with some of the leading benchmark methods, and they show a competitive performance.
Biphasic Injection for Masseter Muscle Reduction with Botulinum Toxin
Authors: Chirico Fabrizio , Bove Pierfrancesco , Fragola Romolo , Cosenza Angelo , De Falco Nadia , Lo Giudice Giorgio , Audino Giovanni , Rauso Giuseppe Mario
Published: July 2021

Masseter Muscle Hypertrophy (MMH) is a well-known clinical benign condition that is not gender-specific and it can be monolateral or bilateral. Botulinum Toxin type A (BoNTA) injection has been widely described for MMH treatment and non-surgical facial slimming. BoNTA masseter injections have high efficacy and safety profile, but the risks of side effects remain. Muscular bulging during mastication is a complication due to the superficial overcompensation of masseteric fibers in response to neurotoxic weakening of the deep masseter. We present a biphasic-injection technique for BoNTA administration, based following anatomical concept and developed in order to prevent paradoxical bulging. A total of 98 treatments from 2015 to 2020 were performed with this technique. No remarkable complications occurred in our study. No cases of loss of full smile, difficulty in mouth opening, dizziness, headache, neurapraxia, and xerostomia were reported. A case of asymmetric smiling was self-resolved within a week. No patient claimed transient muscle weakness as distressing. No cases of paradoxical bulging were observed. Extensive knowledge of muscular anatomy and appropriate injection technique are key factors in achieving the desired result and avoiding complications. We feel that sharing this tip could be helpful for all the physicians involved in MMH treatment with BoNTA.
Modeling of Deadtime Events in Power Converters with Half-Bridge Modules for a Highly Accurate Hardware-in-the-Loop Fixed Point Implementation in FPGA
Authors: Saralegui Roberto , Sanchez Alberto , de Castro Angel
Published: July 2021

Hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulations of power converters must achieve a truthful representation in real time with simulation steps on the order of microseconds or tens of nanoseconds. The numerical solution for the differential equations that model the state of the converter can be calculated using the fourth-order Runge–Kutta method, which is notably more accurate than Euler methods. However, when the mathematical error due to the solver is drastically reduced, other sources of error arise. In the case of converters that use deadtimes to control the switches, such as any power converter including half-bridge modules, the inductor current reaching zero during deadtimes generates a model error large enough to offset the advantages of the Runge–Kutta method. A specific model is needed for such events. In this paper, an approximation is proposed, where the time step is divided into two semi-steps. This serves to recover the accuracy of the calculations at the expense of needing a division operation. A fixed-point implementation in VHDL is proposed, reusing a block along several calculation cycles to compute the needed parameters for the Runge–Kutta method. The implementation in a low-cost field-programmable gate arrays (FPGA) (Xilinx Artix-7) achieves an integration time of 1μs. The calculation errors are six orders of magnitude smaller for both capacitor voltage and inductor current for the worst case, the one where the current reaches zero during the deadtimes in 78% of the simulated cycles. The accuracy achieved with the proposed fixed point implementation is very close to that of 64-bit floating point and can operate in real time with a resolution of 1μs. Therefore, the results show that this approach is suitable for modeling converters based on half-bridge modules by using FPGAs. This solution is intended for easy integration into any HIL system, including commercial HIL systems, showing that its application even with relatively high integration steps (1μs) surpasses the results of techniques with even faster integration steps that do not take these events into account.
Toward Development of a Framework for Prediction System of Local-Scale Atmospheric Dispersion Based on a Coupling of LES-Database and On-Site Meteorological Observation
Authors: Nakayama Hiromasa , Yoshida Toshiya , Terada Hiroaki , Kadowaki Masanao
Published: July 2021

An accurate analysis of local-scale atmospheric dispersion of radioactive materials is important for safety and consequence assessments and emergency responses to accidental release from nuclear facilities. It is necessary to predict the three-dimensional distribution of the plume in consideration of turbulent effects induced by individual buildings and meteorological conditions. In this study, first, we conducted with meteorological observations by a Doppler LiDAR and simple plume release experiments by a mist-spraying system at the site of Japan Atomic Energy Agency. Then, we developed a framework for prediction system of local-scale atmospheric dispersion based on a coupling of large-eddy simulation (LES) database and on-site meteorological observation. The LES-database was also created by pre-calculating high-resolution turbulent flows in the target site at mean wind directions of class interval 10°. We provided the meteorological observed data with the LES-database in consideration of building conditions and calculated the three-dimensional distribution of the plume with a Lagrangian dispersion model. Compared to the instantaneous shots of the plume taken by a digital camera, it was shown that the mist plume transport direction was accurately simulated. It was concluded that our proposed framework for prediction system based on a coupling of LES-database and on-site meteorological observation is effective.
Evaluating the Forecast Skill of a Hydrometeorological Modelling System in Greece
Authors: Varlas George , Papadopoulos Anastasios , Papaioannou George , Dimitriou Elias
Published: July 2021

A hydrometeorological forecasting system has been operating at the Institute of Marine Biological Resources and Inland Waters (IMBRIW) of the Hellenic Centre for Marine Research (HCMR) since September 2015. The system consists of the Advanced Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF-ARW) model, the WRF-Hydro hydrological model, and the HEC-RAS hydraulic–hydrodynamic model. The system provides daily 120 h weather forecasts focusing on Greece (4 km horizontal resolution) and hydrological forecasts for the Spercheios and Evrotas rivers in Greece (100 m horizontal resolution), also providing flash flood inundation forecasts when needed (5 m horizontal resolution). The main aim of this study is to evaluate precipitation forecasts produced in a 4-year period (September 2015–August 2019) using measurements from meteorological stations across Greece. Water level forecasts for the Evrotas and Spercheios rivers were also evaluated using measurements from hydrological stations operated by the IMBRIW. Moreover, the forecast skill of the chained meteorological–hydrological–hydraulic operation of the system was investigated during a catastrophic flash flood in the Evrotas river. The results indicated that the system provided skillful precipitation and water level forecasts. The best evaluation results were yielded during rainy periods. They also demonstrated that timely flash flood forecasting products could benefit flood warning and emergency responses due to their efficiency and increased lead time.
Urban-Induced Changes on Local Circulation in Complex Terrain: Central Mexico Basin
Authors: Aquino-Martínez Lourdes P. , Quintanar Arturo I. , Ochoa-Moya Carlos A. , López-Espinoza Erika Danaé , Adams David K. , Jazcilevich-Diamant Aron
Published: July 2021

Land use land cover (LULC) significantly impacts local circulation in the Mexico Basin, particularly wind field circulations such as gap winds, convergence lines, and thermally induced upslope/downslope wind. A case study with a high-pressure system over the Mexico Basin isolates the influence of large-scale synoptic forcing. Numerical simulations reveal a wind system composed of meridional circulation and a zonal component. Thermal pressure gradients between the Mexico basin and its colder surroundings create near-surface convergence lines as part of the meridional circulation. Experiments show that the intensity and organization of meridional circulations and downslope winds increase when LULC changes from natural and cultivated land to urban. Zonal circulation exhibits a typical circulation pattern with the upslope flow and descending motion in the middle of the basin. Large values of moist static energy are near the surface where air parcels pick up energy from the surface either as fluxes of enthalpy or latent heat. Surface heat fluxes and stored energy in the ground are drivers of local circulation, which is more evident in zonal circulation patterns.
High Resolution Chemical Stratigraphies of Atmospheric Depositions from a 4 m Depth Snow Pit at Dome C (East Antarctica)
Authors: Caiazzo Laura , Becagli Silvia , Bertinetti Stefano , Grotti Marco , Nava Silvia , Severi Mirko , Traversi Rita
Published: July 2021

In this work, we present chemical stratigraphies of two sampling lines collected within a 4 m depth snow pit dug in Dome C during the Antarctic summer Campaign 2017/2018, 12 years after the last reported snow pit. The first sampling line was analyzed for nine anionic and cationic species using Ion Chromatography (IC); the second sampling line was analyzed for seven major elements in an innovative way with Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES) after sample pre-concentration, allowing the study of deposition processes of new markers especially related to crustal source. This coupled analysis, besides confirming previous studies, allowed us to investigate the depositions of the last decades at Dome C, enriching the number of the detected chemical markers, and yielding these two techniques complementary for the study of different markers in this kind of matrix. As a result of the dating, the snow layers analyzed covered the last 50 years of snow depositions. The assessment of the accumulation rate, estimated about 9 cm yr−1, was accomplished only for the period 1992–2016, as the eruption of 1992 constituted the only tie-point found in nssSO42− depth profile. Na, the reliable sea salt marker, together with Mg and Sr, mainly arose from marine sources, whereas Ca, Al and Fe originated from crustal inputs. Post-depositional processes occurred on Cl− as well as on NO3− and methanesulfonic acid (MSA); compared to the latter, Cl− had a more gradual decrease, reporting a threshold at 2.5 m for the post-depositional process completion. For NO3− and MSA, instead, the threshold was shallower, at about 1 m depth, with a loss of 87% for NO3− and of 50% for MSA.
Longitudinal 3D Study of Anterior Tooth Wear from Adolescence to Adulthood in Modern Humans
Authors: Gkantidis Nikolaos , Dritsas Konstantinos , Gebistorf Meret , Halazonetis Demetrios , Ren Yijin , Katsaros Christos
Published: July 2021

In modern humans, tooth wear can easily be observed as a loss of tooth substance, but its precise measurement is problematic. The aim of this longitudinal cohort study was to determine the precise amount of occlusal tooth wear in the anterior permanent dentition from adolescence to adulthood. Corresponding tooth crowns from serial 3D digital dental models of 72 individuals were best fit-approximated by applying novel, highly accurate 3D superimposition methods. The superimposed crowns were simultaneously sliced on intact structures, and the differences in the volumes of the subsequent occlusal parts were calculated. Over a thirteen-year period, there was an average loss of anterior occlusal surfaces of 1.58 mm3 per tooth. Tooth surface loss in at least one tooth was higher than 1 mm3 in 93.1% of the human subjects. Tooth wear severity differed by sex and tooth type, with males showing higher values versus females and upper canines versus other anterior teeth. The study revealed the endemic occurrence of occlusal anterior tooth wear, highlighting the need for monitoring of the condition in the population to identify high-risk patients and enable timely interventions. The novel methods applied here on 3D digital models are recommended for this.
Modeling Post-Scratching Locomotion with Two Rhythm Generators and a Shared Pattern Formation
Authors: Tapia Jesus A. , Reid Argelia , Reid John , Dominguez-Nicolas Saul M. , Manjarrez Elias
Published: July 2021

This study aimed to present a model of post-scratching locomotion with two intermixed central pattern generator (CPG) networks, one for scratching and another for locomotion. We hypothesized that the rhythm generator layers for each CPG are different, with the condition that both CPGs share their supraspinal circuits and their motor outputs at the level of their pattern formation networks. We show that the model reproduces the post-scratching locomotion latency of 6.2 ± 3.5 s, and the mean cycle durations for scratching and post-scratching locomotion of 0.3 ± 0.09 s and 1.7 ± 0.6 s, respectively, which were observed in a previous experimental study. Our findings show how the transition of two rhythmic movements could be mediated by information exchanged between their CPG circuits through routes converging in a common pattern formation layer. This integrated organization may provide flexible and effective connectivity despite the rigidity of the anatomical connections in the spinal cord circuitry.
Prevention of Post-Operative Adhesions: A Comprehensive Review of Present and Emerging Strategies
Authors: Fatehi Hassanabad Ali , Zarzycki Anna N. , Jeon Kristina , Dundas Jameson A. , Vasanthan Vishnu , Deniset Justin F. , Fedak Paul W. M.
Published: July 2021

Post-operative adhesions affect patients undergoing all types of surgeries. They are associated with serious complications, including higher risk of morbidity and mortality. Given increased hospitalization, longer operative times, and longer length of hospital stay, post-surgical adhesions also pose a great financial burden. Although our knowledge of some of the underlying mechanisms driving adhesion formation has significantly improved over the past two decades, literature has yet to fully explain the pathogenesis and etiology of post-surgical adhesions. As a result, finding an ideal preventative strategy and leveraging appropriate tissue engineering strategies has proven to be difficult. Different products have been developed and enjoyed various levels of success along the translational tissue engineering research spectrum, but their clinical translation has been limited. Herein, we comprehensively review the agents and products that have been developed to mitigate post-operative adhesion formation. We also assess emerging strategies that aid in facilitating precision and personalized medicine to improve outcomes for patients and our healthcare system.
Selenium Nanoparticles as Candidates for Antibacterial Substitutes and Supplements against Multidrug-Resistant Bacteria
Authors: Han Hee-Won , Patel Kapil D. , Kwak Jin-Hwan , Jun Soo-Kyung , Jang Tae-Su , Lee Sung-Hoon , Knowles Jonathan Campbell , Kim Hae-Won , Lee Hae-Hyoung , Lee Jung-Hwan
Published: July 2021

In recent years, multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria have increased rapidly, representing a major threat to human health. This problem has created an urgent need to identify alternatives for the treatment of MDR bacteria. The aim of this study was to identify the antibacterial activity of selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) and selenium nanowires (SeNWs) against MDR bacteria and assess the potential synergistic effects when combined with a conventional antibiotic (linezolid). SeNPs and SeNWs were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), zeta potential, and UV-visible analysis. The antibacterial effects of SeNPs and SeNWs were confirmed by the macro-dilution minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) test. SeNPs showed MIC values against methicillin-sensitive S. aureus (MSSA), methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), vancomycin-resistant S. aureus (VRSA), and vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) at concentrations of 20, 80, 320, and >320 μg/mL, respectively. On the other hand, SeNWs showed a MIC value of >320 μg/mL against all tested bacteria. Therefore, MSSA, MRSA, and VRSA were selected for the bacteria to be tested, and SeNPs were selected as the antimicrobial agent for the following experiments. In the time-kill assay, SeNPs at a concentration of 4X MIC (80 and 320 μg/mL) showed bactericidal effects against MSSA and MRSA, respectively. At a concentration of 2X MIC (40 and 160 μg/mL), SeNPs showed bacteriostatic effects against MSSA and bactericidal effects against MRSA, respectively. In the synergy test, SeNPs showed a synergistic effect with linezolid (LZD) through protein degradation against MSSA and MRSA. In conclusion, these results suggest that SeNPs can be candidates for antibacterial substitutes and supplements against MDR bacteria for topical use, such as dressings. However, for use in clinical situations, additional experiments such as toxicity and synergistic mechanism tests of SeNPs are needed.
LncRNAs Associated with Neuronal Development and Oncogenesis Are Deregulated in SOD1-G93A Murine Model of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Rey Federica , Marcuzzo Stefania , Bonanno Silvia , Bordoni Matteo , Giallongo Toniella , Malacarne Claudia , Cereda Cristina , Zuccotti Gian Vincenzo , Carelli Stephana
Published: July 2021

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating neurodegenerative disease caused in 10% of cases by inherited mutations considered “familial”. An ever-increasing amount of evidence is showing a fundamental role for RNA metabolism in ALS pathogenesis, and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) appear to play a role in ALS development. Here, we aim to investigate the expression of a panel of lncRNAs (linc-Enc1, linc–Brn1a, linc–Brn1b, linc-p21, Hottip, Tug1, Eldrr, and Fendrr) which could be implicated in early phases of ALS. Via Real-Time PCR, we assessed their expression in a murine familial model of ALS (SOD1-G93A mouse) in brain and spinal cord areas of SOD1-G93A mice in comparison with that of B6.SJL control mice, in asymptomatic (week 8) and late-stage disease (week 18). We highlighted a specific area and pathogenetic-stage deregulation in each lncRNA, with linc-p21 being deregulated in all analyzed tissues. Moreover, we analyzed the expression of their human homologues in SH-SY5Y-SOD1-WT and SH-SY5Y-SOD1-G93A, observing a profound alteration in their expression. Interestingly, the lncRNAs expression in our ALS models often resulted opposite to that observed for the lncRNAs in cancer. These evidences suggest that lncRNAs could be novel disease-modifying agents, biomarkers, or pathways affected by ALS neurodegeneration.
Longitudinal Circulating Levels of miR-23b-3p, miR-126-3p and lncRNA GAS5 in HCC Patients Treated with Sorafenib
Authors: Manganelli Michele , Grossi Ilaria , Ferracin Manuela , Guerriero Paola , Negrini Massimo , Ghidini Michele , Senti Chiara , Ratti Margherita , Pizzo Claudio , Passalacqua Rodolfo , Molfino Sarah , Baiocchi Gianluca , Portolani Nazario , Marchina Eleonora , De Petro Giuseppina , Salvi Alessandro
Published: July 2021

Human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most frequent primary tumor of the liver and the third cause of cancer-related deaths. The multikinase inhibitor sorafenib is a systemic drug for unresectable HCC. The identification of molecular biomarkers for the early diagnosis of HCC and responsiveness to treatment are needed. In this work, we performed an exploratory study to investigate the longitudinal levels of cell-free long ncRNA GAS5 and microRNAs miR-126-3p and -23b-3p in a cohort of 7 patients during the period of treatment with sorafenib. We used qPCR to measure the amounts of GAS5 and miR-126-3p and droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) to measure the levels of miR-23b-3p. Patients treated with sorafenib displayed variable levels of GAS5, miR-126-3p and miR-23b-3p at different time-points of follow-up. miR-23b-3p was further measured by ddPCR in 37 healthy individuals and 25 untreated HCC patients. The amount of miR-23b-3p in the plasma of untreated HCC patients was significantly downregulated if compared to healthy individuals. The ROC curve analysis underlined its diagnostic relevance. In conclusion, our results highlight a potential clinical significance of circulating miR-23b-3p and an exploratory observation on the longitudinal plasmatic levels of GAS5, miR-126-3p and miR-23b-3p during sorafenib treatment.
Nanoribbon-Based Electronic Detection of a Glioma-Associated Circular miRNA
Authors: Ivanov Yuri D. , Malsagova Kristina A. , Popov Vladimir P. , Pleshakova Tatyana O. , Kozlov Andrey F. , Galiullin Rafael A. , Shumov Ivan D. , Kapustina Svetlana I. , Tikhonenko Fedor V. , Ziborov Vadim S. , Dolgoborodov Alexander Yu. , Petrov Oleg F. , Gadzhieva Olga A. , Bashiryan Boris A. , Shimansky Vadim N. , Potoldykova Natalia V. , Enikeev Dmitry V. , Usachev Dmitry Yu. , Archakov Alexander I.
Published: July 2021

Nanoribbon chips, based on “silicon-on-insulator” structures (SOI-NR chips), have been fabricated. These SOI-NR chips, whose surface was sensitized with covalently immobilized oligonucleotide molecular probes (oDNA probes), have been employed for the nanoribbon biosensor-based detection of a circular ribonucleic acid (circRNA) molecular marker of glioma in humans. The nucleotide sequence of the oDNA probes was complimentary to the sequence of the target oDNA. The latter represents a synthetic analogue of a glioma marker—NFIX circular RNA. In this way, the detection of target oDNA molecules in a pure buffer has been performed. The lowest concentration of the target biomolecules, detectable in our experiments, was of the order of ~10−17 M. The SOI-NR sensor chips proposed herein have allowed us to reveal an elevated level of the NFIX circular RNA in the blood of a glioma patient.
Psychopathic Traits in Childhood: Insights from Parental Warmth and Fearless Temperament via Conscience Development
Authors: López-Romero Laura , Cutrín Olalla , Maneiro Lorena , Domínguez-Álvarez Beatriz , Romero Estrella
Published: July 2021

The role of psychopathic traits in predicting more serious and persistent patterns of child conduct problems has been well documented. The jointly presence of interpersonal (grandiose–deceitful), affective (e.g., callous–unemotional), and behavioral psychopathic traits (impulsive–need of stimulation) identifies a group of children at increased risk of psychosocial maladjustment. The present study aims to disentangle the underlying mechanisms by examining how early parenting (i.e., warmth) and child temperament (i.e., fearlessness) predict later psychopathic traits, via conscience development (CD). Data were collected in a large sample of children (n = 2.266; 48.5% girls), aged 3 to 6 at the onset of the study (Mage = 4.25; SD = 0.91), who were followed up one and two years later. The results showed direct effects from fearlessness to interpersonal and behavioral psychopathic traits. Parental warmth, fearless temperament, and their interaction, predicted CD, which, in turn, showed a negative effect on psychopathic traits. The indirect effects indicated significant negative mediation effects of warmth through CD on psychopathic traits, which seem to be stronger when children present lower levels of fearlessness. Overall, these results contribute to better understand the development of child psychopathic traits and provide additional insight on effective strategies that will help to restrain the potential development of a high-risk profile in early childhood.