bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Development of the Genic SSR Markers for Analysis of Genetic Diversity in Gooseberry Cultivars
Authors: Vidyagina Elena O. , Lebedev Vadim G. , Subbotina Natalya M. , Treschevskaya Ella I. , Lebedeva Tatyana N. , Shestibratov Konstantin A.
Published: May 2021

Gooseberry is one of the most promising and underrated small fruit crops. There is a need to improve and genotype the existing cultivars, and this work requires the use of new efficient DNA marking techniques. Marker-assisted selection (MAS) is a modern approach for work with genetic resources. However, the genetic determinants of key qualitative traits are poorly studied. Therefore, we developed SSR markers located in flavonoid biosynthesis genes that can affect the resistance of plants to biotic and abiotic stresses to study the genetic diversity of gooseberry cultivars grown in the Russian Federation and varying in genetic and geographical origin. We have genotyped 22 gooseberry cultivars using a set of 19 of our original microsatellite markers and two neutral previously published ones. A total of 53 alleles were found. Nine of the 21 analyzed loci were polymorphic. The most polymorphic loci of flavonoid biosynthesis were found in the DFR gene (RucDFR1-2, RucDFR1-3, RucDFR2-1), their mean PIC (polymorphism information content) being 0.65, comparable to the PIC values of neutral markers. Our set of gene-targeted SSR markers showed that most of all the studied gooseberry cultivars differed in origin, based on which they were divided into three groups: European cultivars, Russian cultivars, and interspecies hybrids. Thus, the polymorphic markers can be used for cultivar identification and certification as well as for the marker-assisted selection of gooseberry plants having different origins and phenotypic traits.
Morphometrical Study of the Lumbar Segment of the Internal Vertebral Venous Plexus in Dogs: A Contrast CT-Based Study
Authors: Ariete Valeria , Barnert Natalia , Gómez Marcelo , Mieres Marcelo , Pérez Bárbara , Gutierrez Juan Claudio
Published: May 2021

The internal vertebral venous plexus (IVVP) is a thin-walled, valveless venous network that is located inside the vertebral canal, communicating with the cerebral venous sinuses. The objective of this study was to perform a morphometric analysis of the IVVP, dural sac, epidural space and vertebral canal between the L1 and L7 vertebrae with contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT). Six clinically healthy adult dogs weighing between 12 kg to 28 kg were used in the study. The CT venographic protocol consisted of a manual injection of 880 mgI/kg of contrast agent (587 mgI/kg in a bolus and 293 mgI/mL by continuous infusion). In all CT images, the dimensions of the IVVP, dural sac, and vertebral canal were collected. Dorsal reconstruction CT images showed a continuous rhomboidal morphological pattern for the IVVP. The dural sac was observed as a rounded isodense structure throughout the vertebral canal. The average area of the IVVP ranged from 0.61 to 0.74 mm2 between L1 and L7 vertebrae (6.3–8.9% of the vertebral canal), and the area of the dural sac was between 1.22 and 7.42 mm2 (13.8–72.2% of the vertebral canal). The area of the epidural space between L1 and L7 ranged from 2.85 to 7.78 mm2 (27.8–86.2% of the vertebral canal). This CT venography protocol is a safe method that allows adequate visualization and morphometric evaluation of the IVVP and adjacent structures.
High Stocking Density and Food Deprivation Increase Brain Monoaminergic Activity in Gilthead Sea Bream (Sparus aurata)
Authors: López-Patiño Marcos Antonio , Skrzynska Arleta Krystyna , Naderi Fatemeh , Mancera Juan Miguel , Míguez Jesús Manuel , Martos-Sitcha Juan Antonio
Published: May 2021

In teleosts, brain monoamines (dopamine and serotonin) participate in the early response to different acute stressors. However, little is known regarding their role during chronic stress. In a 2 × 2 factorial design, the influence of a high stocking density (HSD) and/or food deprivation (FD) on the brain monoaminergic activity in gilthead sea bream (Sparus aurata) was evaluated. Following a 21-day experimental design, samples from the plasma and brain regions (telencephalon, hypothalamus, and optic tectum) were collected. The dopamine (DA), serotonin (5HT), and their main metabolites, 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) and 5 hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5HIAA), contents were HPLC-assessed in brain tissues, and the ratios DOPAC/DA and 5HIAA/5HT were calculated as indicators of enhanced monoaminergic activity. The plasma levels of cortisol and catecholamine were also evaluated. The cortisol levels increased in fish exposed to HSD and normally fed but, also, in all FD groups, whereas the NA levels decreased in LSD-FD animals. Within the brain, the dopaminergic and serotonergic activities in telencephalon and hypothalamus increased in fish subjected to HSD and in the telencephalon of LSD-FD fish. While DA (hypothalamus) and 5HT (telencephalon) increased in the animals submitted to a HSD, food-deprived fish did not show such an increase. Taken together, our results supported the hypothesis of brain monoaminergic activity participating in maintaining and orchestrating the endocrine response to chronic stress in fish.
Endoscopic Study of the Oral and Pharyngeal Cavities in the Common Dolphin, Striped Dolphin, Risso’s Dolphin, Harbour Porpoise and Pilot Whale: Reinforced with Other Diagnostic and Anatomic Techniques
Authors: García de los Ríos y Loshuertos Álvaro , Soler Laguía Marta , Arencibia Espinosa Alberto , Martínez Gomariz Francisco , Sánchez Collado Cayetano , López Fernández Alfredo , Gil Cano Francisco , Seva Alcaraz Juan , Ramírez Zarzosa Gregorio
Published: May 2021

In this work, the fetal and newborn anatomical structures of the dolphin oropharyngeal cavities were studied. The main technique used was endoscopy, as these cavities are narrow tubular spaces and the oral cavity is difficult to photograph without moving the specimen. The endoscope was used to study the mucosal features of the oral and pharyngeal cavities. Two pharyngeal diverticula of the auditory tubes were discovered on either side of the choanae and larynx. These spaces begin close to the musculotubaric channel of the middle ear, are linked to the pterygopalatine recesses (pterygoid sinus) and they extend to the maxillopalatine fossa. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), osteological analysis, sectional anatomy, dissections, and histology were also used to better understand the function of the pharyngeal diverticula of the auditory tubes. These data were then compared with the horse’s pharyngeal diverticula of the auditory tubes. The histology revealed that a vascular plexus inside these diverticula could help to expel the air from this space to the nasopharynx. In the oral cavity, teeth remain inside the alveolus and covered by gums. The marginal papillae of the tongue differ in extension depending on the fetal specimen studied. The histology reveals that the incisive papilla is vestigial and contain abundant innervation. No ducts were observed inside lateral sublingual folds in the oral cavity proper and caruncles were not seen in the prefrenular space.
‘All My Animals Are Equal, but None Can Survive without the Horse’. The Contribution of Working Equids to the Livelihoods of Women across Six Communities in the Chimaltenango Region of Guatemala
Authors: Vasanthakumar Molly A. , Upjohn Melissa M. , Watson Tamlin L. , Dwyer Cathy M.
Published: May 2021

It is widely assumed that working equid husbandry is carried out by men, and women are often not recognised as facilitating equid welfare. The aim of this study is to investigate how working equids contribute to women’s livelihoods in six of the World Horse Welfare programme target communities in Guatemala and determine what roles women have in their care. Thirty-four face-to-face interviews were carried out and data were analysed using both quantitative and qualitative methods. This study found that working equids support women by reducing domestic drudgery, generating income, feeding livestock and saving time. Thirty-two women played a major role in the care of one or more equids, and overall, women did not feel that they knew enough about equid husbandry. Thirty-one women said they would attend training opportunities if the advertising was clear and they felt that women were able to join. This study recognises the contribution of working equids to women’s livelihoods, describes the roles women play in equid husbandry and addresses the discrepancies between women’s roles and their capacity to undertake these tasks. This emphasises the need for extension services to include and cater for women, improving equid welfare and their ability to continue supporting women’s livelihoods.
Genome-Wide Patterns of Homozygosity Reveal the Conservation Status in Five Italian Goat Populations
Authors: Mastrangelo Salvatore , Di Gerlando Rosalia , Sardina Maria Teresa , Sutera Anna Maria , Moscarelli Angelo , Tolone Marco , Cortellari Matteo , Marletta Donata , Crepaldi Paola , Portolano Baldassare
Published: May 2021

The application of genomic technologies has facilitated the assessment of genomic inbreeding based on single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). In this study, we computed several runs of homozygosity (ROH) parameters to investigate the patterns of homozygosity using Illumina Goat SNP50 in five Italian local populations: Argentata dell’Etna (N = 48), Derivata di Siria (N = 32), Girgentana (N = 59), Maltese (N = 16) and Messinese (N = 22). The ROH results showed well-defined differences among the populations. A total of 3687 ROH segments >2 Mb were detected in the whole sample. The Argentata dell’Etna and Messinese were the populations with the lowest mean number of ROH and inbreeding coefficient values, which reflect admixture and gene flow. In the Girgentana, we identified an ROH pattern related with recent inbreeding that can endanger the viability of the breed due to reduced population size. The genomes of Derivata di Siria and Maltese breeds showed the presence of long ROH (>16 Mb) that could seriously impact the overall biological fitness of these breeds. Moreover, the results confirmed that ROH parameters are in agreement with the known demography of these populations and highlighted the different selection histories and breeding schemes of these goat populations. In the analysis of ROH islands, we detected harbored genes involved with important traits, such as for milk yield, reproduction, and immune response, and are consistent with the phenotypic traits of the studied goat populations. Finally, the results of this study can be used for implementing conservation programs for these local populations in order to avoid further loss of genetic diversity and to preserve the production and fitness traits. In view of this, the availability of genomic data is a fundamental resource.
Fucoxanthin Exerts Anti-Tumor Activity on Canine Mammary Tumor Cells via Tumor Cell Apoptosis Induction and Angiogenesis Inhibition
Authors: Jang Hyuk , Choi Jawun , Park Jeong-Ki , Won Gayeon , Seol Jae-Won
Published: May 2021

Fucoxanthin is a carotenoid derived from brown algae. It is known to exhibit anticancer activity, including the promotion of apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in several tumors. However, it remains unclear whether fucoxanthin exhibits anticancer activity against mammary gland tumors. In this study, we evaluated fucoxanthin activity against canine mammary tumor cells (CMT-U27) and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) to investigate its effect on cell viability, migration, tube formation, and angiopoietin 2 (Ang2) expression. Our results showed that fucoxanthin induced apoptosis via caspase activation in CMT-U27 cells. In rat aortic ring assay, fucoxanthin suppressed endothelial cell sprouting. Furthermore, fucoxanthin inhibited tube formation and migration in HUVECs. The number of migrated cells was assessed using CMT-U27 cells. The results demonstrated that fucoxanthin exerted anti-angiogenic activity on HUVECs and CMT-U27 cells by promoting Ang2 expression. In conclusion, our results demonstrated that fucoxanthin induced tumor cell death and inhibited angiogenesis, suggesting that fucoxanthin could be considered as a promising therapeutic agent for canine mammary gland tumors.
Angiostrongylus vasorum in Domestic Dogs in Castilla y León, Iberian Peninsula, Spain
Authors: Morchón Rodrigo , Montoya-Alonso José Alberto , Sánchez-Agudo José Ángel , de Vicente-Bengochea Juan , Murcia-Martínez Xiomara , Carretón Elena
Published: May 2021

Angiostrongylus vasorum is the causative agent of canine angiostrongylosis, a disease affecting domestic and wild canids. In Europe, it is an emerging disease, mainly reported in red foxes. In Spain, there are a few studies that address the prevalence and pathology of this disease. Castilla y León is the largest region of the Iberian Peninsula, whose extensive area is 94,224 km2; however, until now, there have been no epidemiological studies on this disease. Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze the presence of antigens of A. vasorum in 1475 dogs from Castilla y León, showing an overall prevalence of 0.75%. The infected dogs were mainly outdoors, guard and hunting breed dogs and living in locations with mild climates close to areas of high edaphic humidity, such as stagnant water, irrigated crops or riverbanks, with the vegetation dominated by alders, holm oak and gall oak forests, where the intermediate hosts develop. It is necessary to carry out more in-depth studies on the epidemiology and pathology of this disease in Spain and Europe in order to carry out efficient control in both domestic and wild animals.
Emergency Response to Australia’s Black Summer 2019–2020: The Role of a Zoo-Based Conservation Organisation in Wildlife Triage, Rescue, and Resilience for the Future
Authors: Parrott Marissa L. , Wicker Leanne V. , Lamont Amanda , Banks Chris , Lang Michelle , Lynch Michael , McMeekin Bonnie , Miller Kimberly A. , Ryan Fiona , Selwood Katherine E. , Sherwen Sally L. , Whiteford Craig
Published: May 2021

Modern zoos are increasingly taking a leading role in emergency management and wildlife recovery. In the face of climate change and the predicted increase in frequency and magnitude of catastrophic events, zoos provide specialised expertise to assist wildlife welfare and endangered species recovery. In the 2019–2020 Australian bushfire season, now called Australia’s Black Summer, a state government-directed response was developed, assembling specialised individuals and organisations from government, non-government organisations, research institutions, and others. Here, we detail the role of Zoos Victoria staff in wildlife triage and welfare, threatened species evacuation and recovery, media and communications, and fundraising during and after the fires. We share strategies for future resilience, readiness, and the ability to mobilise quickly in catastrophic events. The development of triage protocols, emergency response kits, emergency enclosures, and expanded and new captive breeding programs is underway, as are programs for care of staff mental health and nature-based community healing for people directly affected by the fires. We hope this account of our response to one of the greatest recent threats to Australia’s biodiversity, and steps to prepare for the future will assist other zoos and wildlife organisations around the world in preparations to help wildlife before, during, and after catastrophic events.
Live Bacillus subtilis natto Promotes Rumen Fermentation by Modulating Rumen Microbiota In Vitro
Authors: Chang Meinan , Ma Fengtao , Wei Jingya , Liu Junhao , Nan Xuemei , Sun Peng
Published: May 2021

Previous studies have shown that Bacillus subtilis natto affects rumen fermentation and rumen microbial community structure, which are limited to detect a few microbial abundances using traditional methods. However, the regulation of B. subtilis natto on rumen microorganisms and the mechanisms of microbiota that affect rumen fermentation is still unclear. This study explored the effects of live and autoclaved B. subtilis natto on ruminal microbial composition and diversity in vitro using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and the underlying mechanisms. Rumen fluid was collected, allocated to thirty-six bottles, and divided into three treatments: CTR, blank control group without B. subtilis natto; LBS, CTR with 109 cfu of live B. subtilis natto; and ABS, CTR with 109 cfu of autoclaved B. subtilis natto. The rumen fluid was collected after 0, 6, 12, and 24 h of fermentation, and pH, ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N), microbial protein (MCP), and volatile fatty acids (VFAs) were determined. The diversity and composition of rumen microbiota were assessed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The results revealed LBS affected the concentrations of NH3-N, MCP, and VFAs (p < 0.05), especially after 12 h, which might be attributed to changes in 18 genera. Whereas ABS only enhanced pH and NH3-N concentration compared with the CTR group (p < 0.05), which might be associated with changes in six genera. Supplementation with live B. subtilis natto improved ruminal NH3-N and propionate concentrations, indicating that live bacteria were better than autoclaved ones. This study advances our understanding of B. subtilis natto in promoting ruminal fermentation, providing a new perspective for the precise utilization of B. subtilis natto in dairy rations.
Porcine Milk-Derived Small Extracellular Vesicles Promote Intestinal Immunoglobulin Production through pIgR
Authors: Zeng Bin , Wang Hailong , Luo Junyi , Xie Meiying , Zhao Zhengjiang , Chen Xingping , Wang Dongyang , Sun Jiajie , Xi Qianyun , Chen Ting , Zhang Yongliang
Published: May 2021

Secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA) plays an important role in gut acquired immunity and mucosal homeostasis. Breast milk is the irreplaceable nutritional source for mammals after birth. Current studies have shown the potential functional role of milk-derived small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) and their RNAs cargo in intestinal health and immune regulation. However, there is a lack of studies to demonstrate how milk-derived sEVs affect intestinal immunity in recipient. In this study, through in vivo experiments, we found that porcine milk small extracellular vesicles (PM-sEVs) promoted intestinal SIgA levels, and increased the expression levels of polymeric immunoglobulin receptor (pIgR) both in mice and piglet. We examined the mechanism of how PM-sEVs increased the expression level of pIgR in vitro by using a porcine small intestine epithelial cell line (IPEC-J2). Through bioinformatics analysis, dual-luciferase reporter assays, and overexpression or knockdown of the corresponding non-coding RNAs, we identified circ-XPO4 in PM-sEVs as a crucial circRNA, which leads to the expression of pIgR via the suppression of miR-221-5p in intestinal cells. Importantly, we also observed that oral administration of PM-sEVs increased the level of circ-XPO4 and decreased the level of miR-221-5p in small intestine of piglets, indicating that circRNAs in milk-derived sEVs act as sponge for miRNAs in recipients. This study, for the first time, reveals that PM-sEVs have a capacity to stimulate intestinal SIgA production by delivering circRNAs to receptors and sponging the recipient’s original miRNAs, and also provides valuable data for insight into the role and mechanism of animal milk sEVs in intestinal immunity.
Modulatory Effects of Bacillus subtilis on the Performance, Morphology, Cecal Microbiota and Gut Barrier Function of Laying Hens
Authors: Zhang Guangzhi , Wang Hao , Zhang Jianwei , Tang Xinming , Raheem Abdul , Wang Mingyan , Lin Weidong , Liang Lin , Qi Yuzhuo , Zhu Yali , Jia Yaxiong , Cui Shangjin , Qin Tong
Published: May 2021

We investigated the efficacy of a single bacterium strain, Bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis) YW1, on the performance, morphology, cecal microbiota, and intestinal barrier function of laying hens. A total of 216 28-week-old Hy-line Brown laying hens were divided into three dietary treatment groups, with six replicates of 12 birds each for 4 weeks. The control group (Ctr) was fed a basal diet and the treatment groups, T1 and T2, were fed a basal diet supplemented with B. subtilis at a dose rate of 5 × 108 CFU/kg and 2.5 × 109 CFU/kg, respectively. Dietary supplementation with B. subtilis did not significantly affect overall egg production in both groups, with no obvious changes in average egg weight and intestine morphology. B. subtilis administration also improved the physical barrier function of the intestine by inducing significantly greater expression levels of the tight junction protein occludin in T1 (p = 0.07) and T2 (p < 0.05). Further, supplementation with B. subtilis effectively modulated the cecal microbiota, increasing the relative level of beneficial bacteria at the genus level (e.g., Bifidobacterium p < 0.05, Lactobacillus p = 0.298, Bacillus p = 0.550) and decreasing the level of potential pathogens (e.g., Fusobacterium p < 0.05, Staphylococcus p < 0.05, Campylobacter p = 0.298). Overall, B. subtilis YW1 supplementation cannot significantly improve the egg production; however, it modulated the cecal microbiota towards a healthier pattern and promoted the mRNA expression of the tight junction protein occludin in laying hens, making B. subtilis YW1 a good probiotic candidate for application in the poultry industry, and further expanding the resources of strains of animal probiotics.
The Role of the Guanosine Nucleotide-Binding Protein in the Corpus Luteum
Authors: Billhaq Dody Houston , Lee Seunghyung
Published: May 2021

The corpus luteum is a temporary endocrine gland in the ovary. In the ovarian cycle, repeated patterns of specific cellular proliferation, differentiation, and transformation occur that accompany the formation and regression of the corpus luteum. Molecular mechanism events in the ovarian microenvironment, such as angiogenesis and apoptosis, are complex. Recently, we focused on the role of RAS protein in the ovarian corpus luteum. RAS protein plays a vital role in the modulation of cell survival, proliferation, and differentiation by molecular pathway signaling. Additionally, reproductive hormones regulate RAS activity in the cellular physiological function of ovarian follicles during pre-ovulatory maturation and ovulation. Thus, we have reviewed the role of RAS protein related to the biological events of the corpus luteum in the ovary.
Artemisinin Protects Porcine Mammary Epithelial Cells against Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammatory Injury by Regulating the NF-κB and MAPK Signaling Pathways
Authors: Zhang Wenfei , Xiong Liang , Chen Jiaming , Tian Zhezhe , Liu Jiaxin , Chen Fang , Ren Man , Guan Wutai , Zhang Shihai
Published: May 2021

Artemisinin performs a variety of biological functions, such as anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and anti-oxidant effects. However, the effects of artemisinin on sow mastitis have not been studied. The results of the current study showed that mRNA expression abundance and content of the inflammatory factors interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were significantly increased when using 50 μg/mL LPS to stimulate pMECs for 24 h (p < 0.05). Pretreatment with 20 μM artemisinin weakened LPS-induced inflammatory damage in pMECs and decreased mRNA expression abundance and the content of inflammatory factors (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α) in pMECs (p < 0.05). Mechanistically, artemisinin inhibited LPS-induced activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling pathways. In summary, the pretreatment of pMECs with artemisinin showed enhanced anti-inflammatory activity against LPS-induced inflammation.
Effects of Clostridium butyricum- and Bacillus spp.-Based Potential Probiotics on the Growth Performance, Intestinal Morphology, Immune Responses, and Caecal Microbiota in Broilers
Authors: Zeng Xinfu , Li Qing , Yang Caimei , Yu Yang , Fu Zixian , Wang Huixian , Fan Xiaoyan , Yue Min , Xu Yinglei
Published: May 2021

We aimed to investigate the effects of Clostridium butyricum-, Bacillus subtilis-, and Bacillus licheniformis-based potential probiotics on the growth performance, intestinal morphology, immune responses, and caecal short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and microbial structure in broiler chickens. Three treatment groups containing a total of 1200 one-day-old AA broilers were included: birds fed with a basal diet only (Con), birds fed with added 1010 probiotics cfu/kg (ProL), and birds fed with added 1011 probiotics cfu/kg (ProH). The dietary probiotics significantly improved the final and average body weights and serum immunoglobulins A, M, and Y. The probiotics also enhanced the ileal morphology and improved the caecal acetate, butyrate, and propionate contents. Furthermore, 16S rRNA sequencing revealed that dietary compound probiotics modulated the caecal microflora composition as follows: (1) all birds shared 2794 observed taxonomic units; (2) treatment groups were well separated in the PCA and PCoA analysis; (3) the relative abundance of Parabacteroides, Ruminococcaceae_UCG-014, Barnesiella, Odoribacter, [Eubacterium_coprostanoligenes_group], [Ruminococcus]_torques_group, and Butyricimonas significantly varied between treatments. The compound probiotics improved the growth performance, serum immune responses, the ratio of ileal villus height to crypt depth, and major caecal SCFAs in broiler chickens. The dietary C. butyricum-, B. subtilis-, and B. licheniformis-based probiotics improved overall broiler health and would benefit the poultry industry.
A Model with Iterative Trials for Correcting Logic Errors in Source Code
Authors: Matsumoto Taku , Watanobe Yutaka , Nakamura Keita
Published: May 2021

It is difficult for students and teachers to detect and correct logic errors in source code. Compilers and integrated development environments (IDEs) have the ability to detect and correct syntax errors but it is also difficult for them to detect and correct logic errors. Although many machine learning approaches have been proposed that can show correction candidates for logic errors, they do not provide guidance concerning how the user should fix them. In this paper, we propose a model for correcting logic errors in a given source code. The proposed model realizes debugging of multiple logic errors in the source code by iterative trials of identifying the errors, correcting the errors, and testing the source code. In this model, in the first stage, a list of correction candidates is provided by a deep learning model, and then the list is given to an editing operation predictor that predicts the editing operation for the correction candidate. To learn the internal parameters of the proposed model, we use a set of solution codes created to solve the corresponding programming tasks in a real e-learning system. To verify the usefulness of the proposed model, we apply it to 32 programming tasks. Experimental results show that the correction accuracy is, on average, 58.64% higher than that of the conventional model without iterative trials.
An ANN Model Trained on Regional Data in the Prediction of Particular Weather Conditions
Authors: Bączkiewicz Aleksandra , Wątróbski Jarosław , Sałabun Wojciech , Kołodziejczyk Joanna
Published: May 2021

Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) have proven to be a powerful tool for solving a wide variety of real-life problems. The possibility of using them for forecasting phenomena occurring in nature, especially weather indicators, has been widely discussed. However, the various areas of the world differ in terms of their difficulty and ability in preparing accurate weather forecasts. Poland lies in a zone with a moderate transition climate, which is characterized by seasonality and the inflow of many types of air masses from different directions, which, combined with the compound terrain, causes climate variability and makes it difficult to accurately predict the weather. For this reason, it is necessary to adapt the model to the prediction of weather conditions and verify its effectiveness on real data. The principal aim of this study is to present the use of a regressive model based on a unidirectional multilayer neural network, also called a Multilayer Perceptron (MLP), to predict selected weather indicators for the city of Szczecin in Poland. The forecast of the model we implemented was effective in determining the daily parameters at 96% compliance with the actual measurements for the prediction of the minimum and maximum temperature for the next day and 83.27% for the prediction of atmospheric pressure.
Augmented Reality Maintenance Assistant Using YOLOv5
Authors: Malta Ana , Mendes Mateus , Farinha Torres
Published: May 2021

Maintenance professionals and other technical staff regularly need to learn to identify new parts in car engines and other equipment. The present work proposes a model of a task assistant based on a deep learning neural network. A YOLOv5 network is used for recognizing some of the constituent parts of an automobile. A dataset of car engine images was created and eight car parts were marked in the images. Then, the neural network was trained to detect each part. The results show that YOLOv5s is able to successfully detect the parts in real time video streams, with high accuracy, thus being useful as an aid to train professionals learning to deal with new equipment using augmented reality. The architecture of an object recognition system using augmented reality glasses is also designed.
Cellular Antioxidant Effects and Bioavailability of Food Supplements Rich in Hydroxytyrosol
Authors: Bender Cecilia , Straßmann Sarah , Heidrich Pola
Published: May 2021

The present study evaluates the effect of olive (Olea europaea L.) vegetation water on human cells regarding its antioxidant properties and radical scavenger bioactivities. To this aim, two food supplements containing concentrated olive water in combination with 6% lemon juice or 70% grape juice, respectively, were assessed in different oxidation assays. From the investigated polyphenols, hydroxytyrosol, present in olives and in a lesser extent in grapes, was found to be the most abundant in both formulations, followed by tyrosol and oleuropein for the olive-derived concentrate with lemon juice, and by proanthocyanidins and tyrosol for the olive concentrate with grape juice. Cellular studies suggest that both formulations are effective antioxidants. In particular, the combination of olive and grape extracts showed a remarkable superoxides-, hydroxyl radicals-, and hydrogen peroxides-scavenging activity, while the formulation containing 94% olive concentrate wasmore potent in protecting the cells against lipoxidation. Both products showed a significant and similar effect in preventing advanced glycation end products’ (AGEs) formation. In addition, preliminary data indicate that hydroxytyrosol is absorbed into the human body when administered via these hydrophilic matrices, as confirmed by the urinary excretion of free hydroxytyrosol. Since the availability of phytochemicals largely depends on the vehicle in which they are solved, these findings are of relevance and contribute to supporting the healthful effects here assessed in a cellular environment.
Analyzing the Effect of Negation in Sentiment Polarity of Facebook Dialectal Arabic Text
Authors: Kaddoura Sanaa , Itani Maher , Roast Chris
Published: May 2021

With the increase in the number of users on social networks, sentiment analysis has been gaining attention. Sentiment analysis establishes the aggregation of these opinions to inform researchers about attitudes towards products or topics. Social network data commonly contain authors’ opinions about specific subjects, such as people’s opinions towards steps taken to manage the COVID-19 pandemic. Usually, people use dialectal language in their posts on social networks. Dialectal language has obstacles that make opinion analysis a challenging process compared to working with standard language. For the Arabic language, Modern Standard Arabic tools (MSA) cannot be employed with social network data that contain dialectal language. Another challenge of the dialectal Arabic language is the polarity of opinionated words affected by inverters, such as negation, that tend to change the word’s polarity from positive to negative and vice versa. This work analyzes the effect of inverters on sentiment analysis of social network dialectal Arabic posts. It discusses the different reasons that hinder the trivial resolution of inverters. An experiment is conducted on a corpus of data collected from Facebook. However, the same work can be applied to other social network posts. The results show the impact that resolution of negation may have on the classification accuracy. The results show that the F1 score increases by 20% if negation is treated in the text.
Rapid 3D-Imaging of Semiconductor Chips Using THz Time-of-Flight Technique
Authors: Yim Jong Hyuk , Kim Su-yeon , Kim Yiseob , Cho Suyoung , Kim Jangsun , Ahn Yeong Hwan
Published: May 2021

In this study, we developed a rapid three-dimensional (3D) time-of-flight imaging tool for inspection of packaged semiconductor chips, using terahertz (THz) time-domain spectroscopy techniques. A high-speed THz system based on the optical sampling by cavity tuning technique is incorporated with a 2-axis galvano scanner to deliver a scanning speed of more than 100 Hz/pixel with a signal-to-noise ratio larger than 20 dB. Through the use of the Hilbert transformation, we reconstruct the 3D structure of the packaged chip in a nondestructive manner. Additionally, the use of frequency-selective imaging allows us to manipulate image resolution; the higher resolution was obtained when monitored using the higher frequency component. Further, using phase information, we were able to detect and identify defects in the packaged chip, such as the delamination area and epoxy-rich regions.
Why Determining the Native Length Change Pattern of Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Is Still a Challenge: State-of-the-Art Review of Potential Sources of Heterogeneity within Studies Evaluating Isometry of MPFL
Authors: Mostowy Marcin , Kwas Katarzyna , Ruzik Kacper , Koźlak Magdalena , Kwapisz Adam , Brzezinska Eva , Malinowski Konrad , Domżalski Marcin E.
Published: May 2021

Background: In the literature there are divergent results as to the native MPFL length change pattern. The reason for such divergent results may be the heterogeneity of design of studies analyzing MPFL isometry. The hypothesis of this review was that studies assessing MPFL length change pattern are highly heterogenous. The aim was to present a state-of-the-art review of sources of this heterogeneity. Materials and Methods: A total of 816 records were identified through the initial search of MEDLINE and Scopus databases. After eligibility assessment, 10 original articles and five reviews were included. In the included studies, the following 15 potential sources of heterogeneity were assessed: number of patients/cadavers, age, males to females ratio (demographics), identification of measured fibers, measurement method, measurement precision, quadriceps muscle activity, iliotibial band activity, hamstrings activity (study design), patellar height, trochlear or patellar dysplasia, femoral anteversion, mechanical axis of the limb, tibial tubercle–trochlear groove distance, and condylar anteroposterior dimensions (morphology). Each variable was graded in every included article with 1 point if reported precisely and not introducing bias; or with 0 points if reported not precisely, introducing bias, or not reported at all. Results: Within original articles, the highest achieved score was 10 out of 15 possible points with mean score of 6.7, SD = 2.37, and minimum score of just 3 out of 15 points. In the demographics section, mean score was 2.4, SD = 0.8 (80% of maximum possible score of 3); in the study design section it was 3.1, SD = 1.87 (52% of maximum possible score of 6); and in the morphology section it was 1.5, SD = 1.43 (25% of maximum possible score of 6). Conclusions: There is high heterogeneity and incomplete reporting of potential sources of bias in studies assessing native MPFL length change pattern. Future investigators should be aware of the presented factors and their potential impact on MPFL isometry. All methodologic factors should be meticulously reported. Detailed description of demographic data is already a standard; however, authors should more extensively report variables concerning study design and morphology of patients’ patellofemoral joint. Furthermore, future studies should try to meticulously simulate the real-life working environment of MPFL and ensure usage of proper measurement methods.
Physico-Chemical Parameters and Health Risk Analysis of Groundwater Quality
Authors: Soceanu Alina , Dobrinas Simona , Dumitrescu Corina Ionela , Manea Natalia , Sirbu Anca , Popescu Viorica , Vizitiu Georgiana
Published: May 2021

Groundwater pollution is a very common problem worldwide, as it poses a serious threat to both the environment and the economic and social development and consequently generates several types of costs. The analysis of pollution control involves a permanent comparison between pollution costs and the costs associated with various methods of pollution reduction. An environmental policy based on economic instruments is more effective than an environmental policy focused on command and control tools. In this respect, the present paper provides a case study showing how anthropogenic factors such as wastewater, industrial, agricultural, and natural factors are able to change the physical and chemical parameters of groundwater in the study area, thus endangering their quality. In order to monitor the groundwater quality in the region of Dobrudja, an analysis of physico-chemical parameters was performed. The content of heavy metals was analyzed and the health risk index was taken into account and analyzed, in order to set a better correctness of the metal content from the underground waters. Studies on groundwater quality control have shown that, in many parts of the world, water has different degrees of quality depending on the natural and anthropogenic factors acting on the pertaining environment. This is why more attention should be paid to the prevention of groundwater pollution and the immediate remediation of accidents.
Model-Based Dynamic Toll Pricing: An Overview
Authors: Lombardi Claudio , Picado-Santos Luís , Annaswamy Anuradha M.
Published: May 2021

In this paper, we review some of the most recent research regarding design, simulation, implementation and evaluation of dynamic tolling schemes. Analyzing the structure of the reviewed studies, we identify the common elements and the differences in the approaches chosen by different authors, presenting an overview of the methods for price definition and of the simulation techniques as well as a discussion on the newest technology applications in the field. Optimization revealed to be the dominant price definition method, while control-based algorithms are notably employed for managed lanes toll pricing schemes. Regarding traffic and driver behavior simulation we observed a great variety of solutions throughout the reviewed papers, with a prevalence of macroscopic models for the former and logit models for the latter. Still few papers include models for externalities quantification, while AI paradigms are gaining importance in the field.
Clinical Outcome of a New Surgical Technique for the Treatment of Peri-Implant Dehiscence in the Esthetic Area. A Case Report
Authors: Quispe-López Norberto , García-Faria Carmen , Mena-Álvarez Jesús , Guadilla Yasmina , Garrido Martínez Pablo , Montero Javier
Published: May 2021

This study describes the clinical and esthetic outcome of n apical surgical treatment on peri-implant soft tissue dehiscence in an implant with a poor prognosis in the esthetic area. The patient presented a compromised situation of clinical attachment loss both in the 1.2 implant and in the adjacent teeth. A biphasic approach consisted firstly of a connective tissue graft accessed by apical and then, 11 months later, a palatal flap technique plus a connective tissue graft. After 20 months of healing, surgical approaches without vertical releasing incisions showed a gain in recession reduction over the implant ranging from 0.3 to 2.7 mm (CI 95%), in addition to a gain in width (2 mm) and thickness (2.3 mm) of the keratinized mucosa. With respect to the white esthetic score, 4 points were gained, and with respect to the pink esthetic score, 3 points were gained. With the use of the apical approach technique and the palatal flap technique, satisfactory results are obtained in the treatment of recessions on implants, improving the amount of keratinized mucosa and the esthetic result in an objective manner in the anterior area.
TAPP: DNN Training for Task Allocation through Pipeline Parallelism Based on Distributed Deep Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Mao Yingchi , Tu Zijian , Xi Fagang , Wang Qingyong , Xu Shufang
Published: May 2021

The rapid development of artificial intelligence technology has made deep neural networks (DNNs) widely used in various fields. DNNs have been continuously growing in order to improve the accuracy and quality of the models. Moreover, traditional data/model parallelism is hard to expand due to communication bottlenecks and hardware efficiency issues. However, pipeline parallelism trains multiple batches, reducing training overheads, so that it can achieve better acceleration effect. Considering the complexity of solving the pipeline parallel task allocation problem in heterogeneous computing resources, in this paper, a task allocation in pipeline parallelism (TAPP) based on deep reinforcement learning, is proposed. In TAPP, the predictive network is trained by a policy gradient until it obtains the optimal pipeline parallel task allocation scheme and speeds up the model training. Experimental results show that, on average, the single-step training time of TAPP is decreased by 1.37 times and the proportion of communication time is reduced by 48.92%, compared with the data parallelism, bulk synchronous parallel (BSP).
Influencing Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes for the Removal of Ismate Violet 2R Dye from Wastewater: Isotherm, Kinetics, and Thermodynamic Studies
Authors: Abualnaja Khamael M. , Alprol Ahmed E. , Ashour Mohamed , Mansour Abdallah Tageldein
Published: May 2021

In this study, a multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) was synthesized and used as an adsorbent for the removal of Ismate violet 2R dye from contaminated water. The morphology and structure of the synthesized adsorbent were examined via the Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area, X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) analysis, infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Raman spectroscopy. The effects of an MWCNT on the removal of IV2R were examined via a batch method using different factors such as pH, agitation time, adsorbent dosage, temperature, and initial dye concentration. The results showed that, at the acidic pH 4, 0.08 g of an MWCNT with 10 mg L−1 at 120 min realized the favorable removal of IV2R dye using an MWCNT. Under these operation conditions, the maximum elimination efficiency for real wastewater reached 88.2%. This process benefits from the ability to remove a large amount of dye (approximately 85.9%) in as short as 10 min using 0.005 g of MWCNTs. Moreover, the investigational isotherm data were examined by different models. The equations of error functions were used in the isotherm model to show the most appropriate isotherm model. The highest adsorption capacity for the removal of the dye was 76.92 mg g−1 for the MWCNT. Moreover, the regression data indicated that the adsorption kinetics were appropriate with a pseudo-second order and an R2 of 0.999. The thermodynamic study showed that the removal of IV2R is an endothermic, spontaneous, and chemisorption process. The MWCNT compound appears to be a new, promising adsorbent in water treatment, with 91.71% regeneration after three cycles.
Contrast Analysis of Polarization in Three-Beam Interference Lithography
Authors: Peng Fuping , Du Jing , Du Jialin , Wang Simo , Yan Wei
Published: May 2021

This paper analyzes the effect of polarization and the incident angle on the contrasts of interference patterns in three-beam interference lithography. A non-coplanar laser interference system was set up to simulate the relationship between contrast, beam polarization, and the incident angle. Different pattern periods require different incident angles, which means different contrast losses in interference lithography. Two different polarization modes were presented to study the effects of polarization with different incident angles based on theoretical analysis simulations. In the case of the co-directional component TE polarization mode, it was demonstrated that the pattern contrast decreases with the increase in the incident angle and the contrast loss caused by the polarization angle error also grew rapidly. By changing the mode to azimuthal (TE-TE-TE) polarization, the contrast of the interference pattern can be ensured to remain above 0.97 even though the incident angle is large. In addition, TE-TE-TE mode can accept larger polarization angle errors. This conclusion provides a theoretical basis for the generation of high-contrast light fields at different incident angles, and the conclusion is also applicable to multi-beam interference lithography.
Nutritional, Sensory, Texture Properties and Volatile Compounds Profile of Biscuits with Roasted Flaxseed Flour Partially Substituting for Wheat Flour
Authors: Man Simona Maria , Stan Laura , Păucean Adriana , Chiş Maria Simona , Mureşan Vlad , Socaci Sonia Ancuţa , Pop Anamaria , Muste Sevastiţa
Published: May 2021

The study aimed at assessing effects of partial replacement (0–40%) of wheat flour with roasted flaxseed flour (RFSF) on the quality attributes of biscuits. Nutritional, antioxidative, volatile and sensory properties, as well as texture analysis and the contents of macroelements and microelement were studied. Increasing RFSF content in biscuits resulted in a significant increase (p < 0.05) in protein (from 8.35% to 10.77%), fat (from 15.19% to 28.34%) and ash (from 1.23% to 2.60%) while the hardness and spread factor of the biscuits decreased with the increased level of roasted flaxseed flour. Moreover, the addition of 40% RFSF registered a positive influence on the fibre content of the final baked biscuits, increasing its value about 6.7-fold than in the control sample. Total phenolic content, antioxidant activity and biscuits’ aroma volatile profile increased their amounts with RFSF addition. The nutritional, textural and sensorial results of the present study demonstrated that 25% RFSF could be added in the biscuits manufacturing without affecting the biscuits aftertaste, offering promising healthy and nutritious alternative to consumers.