bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deep Learning to Authenticate Traditional Handloom Textile
Authors: Das Anindita , Deka Aniruddha , Medhi Kishore , Saikia Manob Jyoti
Published: August 2024

Handloom textile products play an essential role in both the financial and cultural landscape of natives, necessitating accurate and efficient methods for authenticating against replicated powerloom textiles for the protection of heritage and indigenous weavers’ economic viability. This paper presents a new approach to the automated identification of handloom textiles leveraging a deep metric learning technique. A labeled handloom textile dataset of 25,166 images was created by collecting handloom textile samples of six unique types, working with indigenous weavers in Assam, Northeast India. The proposed method achieved remarkable success by acquiring biased feature representations that facilitate the effective separation of different fiber types in a learned feature space. Through extensive experimentation and comparison with baseline models, our approach demonstrated superior efficiency in classifying handloom textiles with an accuracy of 97.8%. Our approach not only contributes to the preservation and promotion of traditional textile craftsmanship in the region but also highlights its significance.
Impact of Neem Seed Extract on Mortality, Esterase and Glutathione-S-Transferase Activities in Thai Polyvoltine Hybrid Silkworm, Bombyx mori L.
Authors: Rattanapan Ajin , Sujayanont Patcharawan
Published: August 2024

Neem, a biopesticide, offers a safer alternative to the synthetic insecticides commonly used in mulberry cultivation, which can harm silkworms. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Thai neem seed extract on all instar larvae of the Thai polyvoltine hybrid silkworm, Bombyx mori L., Dok Bua strains, focusing on the mortality rate and the activities of esterase (EST) and glutathione S-transferases (GST) enzymes. Acute toxicity was assessed using the leaf-dipping method. Results showed that the mortality rate tended to be higher in younger instars than in older ones. The first instar larvae exhibited the highest mortality rate at 94%, whereas the LC50 was highest in the third instar at 5.23 mg L−1 at 72 h. This trend aligns with the activities of EST and GST, which were evaluated in the whole bodies of the first instar larvae and the midgut tissue of fifth instar larvae. As the extract concentration increased, EST activity decreased while GST activity increased in both the first and fifth instar larvae. These findings highlight that neem extract is toxic to all instar larvae, with GST playing a crucial role in detoxification, particularly in the whole body of the Thai polyvoltine hybrid silkworm.
Effects of Bacillus thuringiensis Treatment on Expression of Detoxification Genes in Chlorantraniliprole-Resistant Plutella xylostella
Authors: Zolfaghari Maryam , Yin Fei , Jurat-Fuentes Juan Luis , Xiao Yong , Peng Zhengke , Wang Jiale , Yang Xiangbing , Li Zhen-Yu
Published: August 2024

Detoxification genes are crucial to insect resistance against chemical pesticides, yet their expression may be altered by exposure to biopesticides such as spores and insecticidal proteins of Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt). Increased enzymatic levels of selected detoxification genes, including glutathione S-transferase (GST), cytochrome P450 (CYP450), and carboxylesterase (CarE), were detected in chlorantraniliprole (CAP)-resistant strains of the diamondback moth (DBM, Plutella xylostella) from China when compared to a reference susceptible strain. These CAP-resistant DBM strains displayed distinct expression patterns of GST 1, CYP6B7, and CarE-6 after treatment with CAP and a Bt pesticide (Bt-G033). In particular, the gene expression analysis demonstrated significant upregulation of the CYP6B7 gene in response to the CAP treatment, while the same gene was downregulated following the Bt-G033 treatment. Downregulation of CYP6B7 using RNAi resulted in increased susceptibility to CAP in resistant DBM strains, suggesting a role of this gene in the resistant phenotype. However, pretreatment with a sublethal dose of Bt-G033 inducing the downregulation of CYP6B7 did not significantly increase CAP potency against the resistant DBM strains. These results identify the DBM genes involved in the metabolic resistance to CAP and demonstrate how their expression is affected by exposure to Bt-G033.
Cardiovascular Risk Factors Predicting Cardiovascular and Cancer Deaths in a Middle-Aged Population Followed-Up for 61 Years until Extinction
Authors: Menotti Alessandro , Puddu Paolo Emilio , Piras Paolo
Published: August 2024

Background and Aim. To study the relationships of cardiovascular risk factors with cancer and cardiovascular mortality in a cohort of middle-aged men followed-up for 61 years. Materials and Methods. A rural cohort of 1611 cancer- and cardiovascular disease-free men aged 40–59 years was examined in 1960 within the Italian Section of the Seven Countries Study, and 28 risk factors measured at baseline were used to predict cancer (n = 459) and cardiovascular deaths (n = 678) that occurred during 61 years of follow-up until the extinction of the cohort with Cox proportional hazard models. Results. A model with 28 risk factors and cancer deaths as the end-point produced eight statistically significant coefficients for age, smoking habits, mother early death, corneal arcus, xanthelasma and diabetes directly related to events, and arm circumference and healthy diet inversely related. In the corresponding models for major cardiovascular diseases and their subgroups, only the coefficients of age and smoking habits were significant among those found for cancer deaths, to which healthy diet can be added if considering coronary heart disease alone. Following a competing risks analysis by the Fine–Gray method, risk factors significantly common to both conditions were only age, smoking, and xanthelasma. Conclusions. A sizeable number of traditional cardiovascular risk factors were not predictors of cancer death in a middle-aged male cohort followed-up until extinction.
Harnessing Mirror Neurons: A New Frontier in Parkinson’s Disease Rehabilitation—A Scoping Review of the Literature
Authors: Tedeschi Roberto , Platano Daniela , Donati Danilo , Giorgi Federica
Published: August 2024

Background: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia. Rehabilitation utilizing mirror neurons leverages the brain’s capacity for action observation (AO) and motor imagery (MI) to enhance motor function. This approach involves patients imitating movements observed in therapists or videos, aiming to improve gait, coordination, and overall quality of life. Mirror neuron activation facilitates motor learning and may decelerate disease progression, thus enhancing patient mobility and independence. Methods: This scoping review aimed to map current evidence on PD therapies employing mirror neuron-based rehabilitation. Databases searched included PubMed, PEDro, and Cochrane. The review included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews that examined the effects of AO and MI in PD rehabilitation. Results: Five studies met the inclusion criteria, encompassing various rehabilitation techniques focusing on AO and MI. These studies consistently demonstrated positive outcomes, such as reduced disease severity and improved quality of life, gait, and balance in PD patients. The activation of mirror neurons through AO and MI was shown to facilitate motor learning and contribute to improved functional mobility. Conclusions: Although the included studies support the beneficial impact of AO and MI techniques in PD rehabilitation, numerous questions remain unresolved. Further research is necessary to evaluate the potential integration of these techniques into standard physiotherapy routines for PD patients. This review highlights the promise of AO and MI in enhancing motor rehabilitation for PD, suggesting the need for more comprehensive studies to validate and refine these therapeutic approaches.
Quantitative Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography Scoring and Its Predictive Value for Outcomes in Adults with Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis
Authors: Mandea Matei , Iacob Speranta Maria , Grasu Mugur Cristian , Anghel Cristian , Iacob Razvan Andrei , Ghioca Mihaela Corina , Gheorghe Cristian , Gheorghe Liliana Simona
Published: August 2024

Background: Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is an immune-mediated disease that has an unfavorable prognosis and needs a liver transplant (LT). The aim of this paper was to show the usefulness of the Majoie classification on magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) images in assessing the prognosis in adult patients with PSC. Methods: Our work presents a retrospective monocentric study performed on 64 adult patients with PSC of the large bile ducts. Two radiologists evaluated the MRCP of diagnosis and calculated MRCP scores using the Majoie classification. Liver-related outcome (LT or liver-related death) was marked as a primary endpoint. Results: Univariate analysis showed that patients with more severe lesions (sum score of intrahepatic and extrahepatic ducts > 3) had a lower age at diagnosis, of 37.2 years, complicated with liver cirrhosis (53.1% of patients) and recurrent cholangitis (28.1%) p < 0.05, without significant differences in mortality, association with IBD or LT. Concordance analysis between MRCP prognostic scores and progression to a PSC-related event showed a moderate relationship (c-statistic 0.662), and a good AUROC was observed for the UKPSC score (0.893) and the MRS (0.936). Conclusions: In the study, we observed a good correlation between the imaging scores based on the Majoie classification and the evolution of the patients. These scores were outperformed by the UKPSC, MRS, and PREsTo clinical models. Their utility was best in predicting recurrent cholangitis.
Ovarian Cancer Staging—How CT Scan Descriptions Differ from Surgical Findings
Authors: Ćwiertnia Adrianna , Borzyszkowska Dominika , Golara Anna , Tuczyńska Natalia , Kozłowski Mateusz , Poncyljusz Wojciech , Sompolska-Rzechuła Agnieszka , Kotrych Katarzyna , Cymbaluk-Płoska Aneta
Published: August 2024

Ovarian cancer is one of the most common causes of cancer death in women worldwide. Most often, it is detected in an advanced stage due to its insidious onset and lack of symptoms in stages I and II. That is why imaging diagnostics is so important. Therefore, we assessed the consistency of the image seen on CT with the actual image assessed during surgery. Objectives: The aim of this study is to compare preoperative evaluation based on CT reports with those obtained during ovarian cancer surgery to determine whether CT is helpful in assessing the possibility of optimal or complete cytoreduction. Methods: This retrospective study included patients diagnosed with ovarian cancer who underwent diagnostic laparoscopy or laparotomy with cytoreduction. We compared ovarian cancer lesions described by radiologists on CT scans to those described during laparoscopy or laparotomy; the Wilcoxon signed-rank test for paired observations was used to compare the variables. Results: We observed that the morphology of the tumor, mesenteric infiltration, and the assessment of the involvement of the abdominal, para-aortic, and iliac lymph nodes may differ in CT examination and during surgery. Conclusions: The site of the tumor exit on a CT scan does not always reflect the original site seen during surgery.
Evaluation of Mis-Selection of End Vertebrae and Its Effect on Measuring Cobb Angle and Curve Length in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
Authors: Hurtado-Avilés José , León-Muñoz Vicente J. , Santonja-Medina Fernando , Raimondi Paolo , Martínez-Martínez Francisco
Published: August 2024

Background: The Cobb angle is critical in assessing adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients. This study aimed to evaluate the error in selecting the upper- and lower-end vertebrae on AIS digital X-rays by experienced and novice observers and its correlation with the error in measuring the Cobb angle and determining the length of the scoliotic curves. Methods: Using the TraumaMeter v.873 software, eight raters independently evaluated 68 scoliotic curves. Results: The error percentage in the upper-end vertebra selection was higher than for the lower-end vertebra (44.7%, CI95% 41.05–48.3 compared to 35%, CI95% 29.7–40.4). The mean bias error (MBE) was 0.45 (CI95% 0.38–0.52) for the upper-end vertebra and 0.35 (CI% 0.69–0.91) for the lower-end vertebra. The percentage of errors in the choice of the end vertebrae was lower for the experienced than for the novices. There was a positive correlation (r = 0.673, p = 0.000) between the error in selecting the end vertebrae and determining the length of the scoliotic curves. Conclusions: We can conclude that errors in selecting end vertebrae are common among experienced and novice observers, with a greater error frequency for the upper-end vertebrae. Contrary to the consensus, the accuracy of determining the length of the scoliotic curve is limited by the Cobb method’s reliance on the correct selection of the end vertebrae.
Alisklamp versus Conventional Dorsal Slit Circumcision: A Multicentric Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Azizoglu Mustafa , Risteski Toni , Klyuev Sergey
Published: August 2024

Background: There are numerous methods of circumcision performed worldwide, typically classified into two main groups: conventional surgical techniques and various device-assisted techniques. Each method has its own advantages, limitations, and potential complications. The aim of this study was to compare outcomes of the Alisklamp technique versus the dorsal slit technique in male circumcision procedures. Method: This multicenter RCT compared the dorsal slit and Alisklamp techniques for circumcision, assessing patient demographics and intraoperative and postoperative outcomes. All patients, under local anesthesia via dorsal penile nerve block, were discharged on the same day and followed up at 24–48 h, 1 week, and 1 month. Results: A total of 180 patients enrolled, and 166 patients were included. The study compared postoperative outcomes between the Alisklamp (AK) and dorsal slit (DS) circumcision techniques in 166 patients. Key findings included significantly higher penile edema in the DS group (19%) compared to the AK group (2.4%) (p < 0.001), with severe edema occurring only in the DS group. Wound gaping was more common in the AK group (8.3%) compared to the DS group (1.2%) (p = 0.030). Skin tunnels were observed only in the DS group (9.5%) (p = 0.004). There were no significant differences in nausea, vomiting, bleeding, necrosis, infection, wound dehiscence, chordee, rotational anomalies, or secondary phimosis between the groups. Mean operation time was lower in the AK group than the DS group (7.8 min vs. 15.5 min; p < 0.001). Conclusions: The Alisklamp technique is recommended as the preferred method for circumcision because it minimizes complications, shortens the procedure time, and is easy to apply.
Assessment of Metabolic, Inflammatory, and Immunological Disorders Using a New Panel of Plasma Parameters in People Living with HIV Undergoing Antiretroviral Therapy—A Retrospective Study
Authors: Szymańska Beata , Knysz Brygida , Ciepłucha Hubert , Piwowar Agnieszka
Published: August 2024

Background/Objectives: People living with HIV (PLWH) treated with combined antiretroviral therapy (cART) show a greater predisposition to metabolic and inflammatory disturbances compared to the general population. This study aimed to assess the effect of five years of cART use on the level of selected parameters related to carbohydrate and lipid metabolism and inflammation in PLWH compared to the uninfected. Methods: The levels of sirtuins (-1, -3, -6); irisin (IRS); myostatin (MSTN); peptide YY (PYY); glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1); dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-4); fetuin-A (FETU-A); pentraxin 3 (PTX3); chemokine stromal cell-derived factor 1 (SDF-1); regulated on activation, normal T cell expressed and presumably secreted (RANTES); and interleukins (-4, -7, -15) in the plasma of PLWH and a control group were evaluated by immunoassay methods. The results obtained after five years of antiretroviral therapy were compared with the levels obtained before and one year after cART. Results: Analysis of the parameters after five years of cART showed significantly higher levels in PLWH compared to the control group for SIRT-6, IRS, and IL-4 and significantly lower levels for RANTES and IL-7. There were significantly higher levels of SIRT-6, PYY, GLP-1, and PTX3 obtained after five years of cART compared to the results before therapy and after one year of cART. Conclusions: The results indicated changes occur in the expression of selected parameters during cART use in PLWH. Further research on the clinical usefulness of selected parameters and obtaining new information on the development of HIV-related comorbidities needs to be conducted.
A 0.5 V, 32 nW Compact Inverter-Based All-Filtering Response Modes Gm-C Filter for Bio-Signal Processing
Authors: Namdari Ali , Aiello Orazio , Caviglia Daniele D.
Published: August 2024

A low-power, low-voltage universal multi-mode Gm-C filter using a 180 nm TSMC technology node is presented in this paper. The proposed filter employs only three transconductance operational amplifiers (OTAs) operating in the sub-threshold region with a supply voltage of 0.5 V, resulting in a power consumption of 32 nW. Moreover, without additional active elements, the proposed circuit can operate various functional modes, such as voltage, current, transconductance, and trans-resistance. The filter’s frequency, centered at 462 Hz, and a compact and low-power solution showing only 93.5 µVrms input-referred noise make the proposed filter highly suitable for bio-signal processing.
Multidimensional Evaluation of Altimetry Marine Gravity Models with Shipborne Gravity Data from a New Platform Marine Gravimeter
Authors: Wang Bo , Wu Lin , Wu Pengfei , Li Qianqian , Bao Lifeng , Wang Yong
Published: August 2024

With the development of satellite altimetry technology and the application of new altimetry satellites, the accuracy and resolution of altimeter-derived gravity field models have improved over the last decades. Nowadays, they are close enough to shipborne gravimetry. In this paper, multi-source shipborne gravity data in the South China Sea were taken to evaluate the accuracies of two high-precision altimeter-derived marine gravity field models (SS V30.1, DTU17). In these shipborne gravity data, there are dozens of routes’ ship gravimetry data, obtained from the National Geophysical Data Center (NGDC); data were tracked from a marine survey with a commercial marine gravimeter (type KSS31M), and data were tracked from a marine gravimetry campaign that was conducted with a newly developed platform gravimeter (type JMG) in the South China Sea in September 2020. After various data filtering, processing, and calibrations, the shipborne gravity data were validated with crossover points analysis. Then, the processed shipborne data were employed to evaluate the accuracy of the altimeter-derived marine gravity field models. During this procedure, the quality of JMG shipborne gravity data was compared with the results of KSS31M and NGDC data. Analysis and evaluation results show that the crossover points verification accuracies of KSS31M and JMG are 0.70 mGal and 1.61 mGal, which are much better than the accuracy of NGDC, which is larger than 8.0 mGal. In the area where the bathymetry changes slowly, the root mean square error values between altimetry gravity models and KSS31M data are respectively 3.28 mGal and 4.54 mGal, and those of the JMG data are respectively 2.94 mGal and 2.60 mGal. According to the above results, we can conclude that the JMG has the same 1–2 mGal accuracy level as KSS31M and can meet the measurement requirements of marine gravity.
Design and Simulation-Based Validation of an AI Model for Predicting Grab-Type Ship Unloader Operation Data
Authors: Jung Ga-Eun , Jeong Woo-Hee , Lee Seok-Ju , Lee Jae-In , Kim Tae-Won , Sung Hae-Jin
Published: August 2024

Along with seaports automation, there is growing interest in the automation of Grab-Type Ship Unloader (GTSU) that unloads coal and iron ore from bulk carriers. Autonomous unloading operations of GTSU offer the potential for significant productivity improvement and cost savings. In this paper, an AI model trained with manual operation data was designed for GTSU automation operation, and the AI model was verified through the equation-of-motion-based GTSU operation simulator. The operation data of hoist, grab, and trolley were predicted by training the designed AI model with the manual operation data of GTSU. Before applying the predicted data to the actual equipment, the predicted driving data was verified using the equation-of-motion-based GTSU operation simulator. The AI prediction model was designed using the Multi-Layer Perception network, a type of artificial neural network. The AI prediction model was evaluated with the Mean-Squared Error indicator, and the validation loss was found to be less than 0.02. In addition, verification of the prediction data was performed using the GTSU dynamics-based simulator. The Mean Relative Error was up to 0.50, and the R2 score value exceeded 0.92, indicating that the model is effective in predicting operation data. The proposed AI prediction model will be effectively utilized to implement a fully automated unloading system.
Experimental Validation of a Modular All-Electric Power Take-Off Topology for Wave Energy Converter Enabling Marine Renewable Energy Interconnection
Authors: Nademi Hamed , Galindez Brent Joel , Ross Michael , Lopez Miguel
Published: August 2024

Power electronic converters are an enabling technology for the emerging marine energy applications, such as using ocean waves to produce electricity. This paper outlines the power take-off system and its key components used in a wave energy converter offering modularity and scalability to generate power efficiently. The proposed power take-off system was implemented based on a modular multilevel converter and could be deployed to convert any alternating current electrical energy to a different alternating current for interconnection to grid or non-grid applications. Examples of widespread deployment are supplying electricity to coastal communities or producing clean drinking water. The analysis using both the simulation tests and laboratory experiments verified the design objectives and basic functionality of the developed power take-off system. An acceptable response using a field programmable gate array-based controlled laboratory testbench was achieved, complying with guidelines specified in the prevalent industry standards. Seamless operation during steady-state and transients for the studied wave energy converter was achieved as supported by the obtained results. The key findings of this work were experimentally examined under different load conditions, direct current bus voltage fluctuations, and generator speed–torque regulation. The ability of the power take-off system to generate high-power quality of the waveforms, e.g., against adhering to the IEEE 519-2022 standard for total harmonic distortion limits, is also confirmed.
Global Path Planning of Unmanned Surface Vehicle in Complex Sea Areas Based on Improved Streamline Method
Authors: Liu Haoran , Shan Qihe , Cao Yuchi , Xu Qi
Published: August 2024

In this paper, an innovative method is proposed to improve the global path planning of Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USV) in complex sea areas, combining fluid mechanic calculations with an improved A* algorithm. This method not only generates smooth paths but also ensures feasible global solutions, significantly enhancing the efficiency and safety of path planning. Firstly, in response to the water depths limitation, this study set up safe water depths, providing strong guarantees for the safe navigation of USVs in complex waters. Secondly, based on the hydrological and geographical characteristics of the study sea area, an accurate ocean environment model was constructed using Ansys Fluent software and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) technology, thus providing USVs with a feasible path solution on a global scale. Then, the local sea area with complex obstacles was converted into a grid map to facilitate detailed planning. Meanwhile, the improved A* algorithm was utilized for meticulous route optimization. Furthermore, by combining the results of local and global planning, the approach generated a comprehensive route that accounts for the complexities of the maritime environment while avoiding local optima. Finally, simulation results demonstrated that the algorithm proposed in this study shows faster pathfinding speed, shorter route distances, and higher route safety compared to other algorithms. Moreover, it remains stable and effective in real-world scenarios.
The Depth Distribution Law of the Polarization of the Vector Acoustic Field in the Ocean Waveguide
Authors: Wei Yizheng , Sun Chao
Published: August 2024

The polarization of the acoustic field in the ocean waveguide environment is a unique property that can provide new ideas for locating and detecting the underwater target, so it is interesting to study the polarization. This paper extends the Stokes parameters to a broadband form, and uses the non-stationary phase approximation method to simplify the expressions, reducing the complexity of theoretical derivation. A physical phenomenon is observed where polarization exhibits significant variations concerning the sea surface, seafloor, source depth, and the source symmetrical depth. Simulation results demonstrate that the simplified equations using the non-stationary phase approximation are effective. Additionally, by normalizing the broadband Stokes parameters, the effects of horizontal range on the depth distribution law of polarization can be eliminated. Subsequently, using the normalized broadband Stokes parameters, the influence of environmental and source parameters on the depth distribution law of polarization is analyzed. The effectiveness of the non-stationary phase approximation and the range-independence property of the normalized broadband Stokes parameters are verified by processing RHUM-RUM experimental data. Based on the conclusions of this paper, it is expected that the polarization can be used for target depth estimation.
The Forkhead Box Gene, MaSep1, Negatively Regulates UV- and Thermo-Tolerances and Is Required for Microcycle Conidiation in Metarhizium acridum
Authors: Song Tiantian , Li Chan , Jin Kai , Xia Yuxian
Published: August 2024

Insect pathogenic fungi have shown great potential in agricultural pest control. Conidiation is crucial for the survival of filamentous fungi, and dispersal occurs through two methods: normal conidiation, where conidia differentiate from mycelium, and microcycle conidiation, which involves conidial budding. The conidiation process is related to cell separation. The forkhead box gene Sep1 in Schizosaccharomyces pombe plays a crucial role in cell separation. Nevertheless, the function of Sep1 has not been clarified in filamentous fungi. Here, MaSep1, the homolog of Sep1 in Metarhizium acridum, was identified and subjected to functional analysis. The findings revealed that conidial germination of the MaSep1-deletion strain (ΔMaSep1) was accelerated and the time for 50% germination rate of conidial was shortened by 1 h, while the conidial production of ΔMaSep1 was considerably reduced. The resistances to heat shock and UV-B irradiation of ΔMaSep1 were enhanced, and the expression of some genes involved in DNA damage repair and heat shock response was significantly increased in ΔMaSep1. The disruption of MaSep1 had no effect on the virulence of M. acridum. Interestingly, ΔMaSep1 conducted the normal conidiation on the microcycle conidiation medium, SYA. Furthermore, 127 DEGs were identified by RNA-Seq between the wild-type and ΔMaSep1 strains during microcycle conidiation, proving that MaSep1 mediated the conidiation pattern shift by governing some genes associated with conidiation, cell division, and cell wall formation.
New and Interesting Pine-Associated Hyphomycetes from China
Authors: Tian Wen-Hui , Jin Yan , Liao Yue-Chi , Faraj Turki Kh. , Guo Xin-Yong , Maharachchikumbura Sajeewa S. N.
Published: August 2024

Pine trees play a crucial role in the forests of Sichuan Province, boasting rich species diversity and a lengthy evolutionary history. However, research and investigation on fungi associated with pine trees are insufficient. This study investigated the diversity of hyphomycetes fungi associated with pine trees in Sichuan Province, China. During the survey, we collected five specimens of hyphomycetes from branches and bark of species of Pinus. Five barcodes were selected for study and sequenced, including ITS, SSU, LSU, TEF1, and RPB2. Morphological examination and multi-locus phylogenetic analyses revealed three new species, viz. Catenulostroma pini sp. nov. within Teratosphaeriaceae, Kirschsteiniothelia longisporum sp. nov. within Kirschsteiniotheliaceae, Sporidesmiella sichuanensis sp. nov. within Junewangiaceae, and two known species, Paradictyoarthrinium diffractum and P. hydei within Paradictyoarthriniaceae, which are the new host records from Pinus species. Catenulostroma pini, distinguished from other species in the genus by its unique morphology, has three conidial morphologies: small terminal helicoconidia, scolecoconidia with many septa, and phragmoconidia conidia. Kirschsteiniothelia longisporum has longer spores when compared to the other species in the genus. According to phylogenetic analysis, Sporidesmiella sichuanensis formed an independent clade sister to S. aquatica and S. juncicola, distinguished by differences in conidial size.
Identification of Secondary Metabolites by UHPLC-ESI-HRMS/MS in Antifungal Strain Trichoderma harzianum (LBAT-53)
Authors: Hernández Giselle , Ponce de la Cal Amaia , Louis Yuset , Baró Robaina Yamilé , Coll Yamilet , Spengler Iraida , Mirabal-Gallardo Yaneris
Published: August 2024

Trichoderma spp. are filamentous fungi generally observed in nature, which are widely marketed as biocontrol agents. The secondary metabolites produced have obtained special attention since they possess attractive chemical structures with a broad spectrum of biological activities. In Cuba, the species of Trichoderma have been commercially applied for the control of several phytopathogens to protect agricultural crops, but few studies have been carried out to detect and characterize the production of metabolites with biological activity. The strain Trichoderma harzianum LBAT-53 was subjected to an antifungal in vitro assay against Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. cubense by dual culture and volatile metabolite assays and fermented in PDB under constant agitation conditions. The ethyl acetate crude extract was obtained by liquid–liquid extraction. The fungal extract was investigated for the composition of secondary metabolites through chemical screening and ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) in negative ionization mode. As a result, LBAT-53 showed antagonistic activity in vitro (Class 2) against the pathogen evaluated in direct confrontation (76.9% of inhibition in 10 days) and by volatile metabolites (<40% in 7 days). Furthermore, seven low-molecular-weight phenolic compounds, including chrysophanol, phomarin, endocrocin, and trichophenol A, among others, were identified using UHPLC-ESI-MS/MS. This study is the first work on the characterization of secondary metabolites produced by the commercially applied strain LBAT-53, which is a promising source of bioactive compounds. These results provide a better understanding of the metabolism of this fungus, which is widely used in Cuba as biopesticides in agriculture pest control.
Development of PCR-Multiplex Assays for Identification of the Herpotrichiellaceae Family and Agents Causing Chromoblastomycosis
Authors: Sousa Gabriel S. M. , De Oliveira Rodrigo S. , Souza Alex B. , Monteiro Ruan C. , Santo Elaine P. T. E. , Franco Filho Luciano C. , Moraes Denison L. O. , De Sá Sarah R. , Da Silva Silvia H. M.
Published: August 2024

The Herpotrichiellaceae family is an important group of dematiaceous filamentous fungi, associated with a variety of pathogenic fungal species causing chromoblastomycosis (CBM) and phaeohyphomycosis (PHM), both with polymorphic clinical manifestations and worldwide incidence. Currently, the identification of this family and determination of the causative agent is challenging due to the subjectivity of morphological identification methods, necessitating the use of molecular techniques to complement diagnosis. In this context, genetic sequencing of the Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) has become the norm due to a lack of alternative molecular tools for identifying these agents. Therefore, this study aimed to develop PCR-Multiplex methodologies to address this gap. Sequences from the ITS and Large Subunit (LSU) of ribosomal DNA were used, and after manual curation and in vitro analyses, primers were synthesized for the identification of the targets. The primers were optimized and validated in vitro, resulting in two PCR-Multiplex methodologies: one for identifying the Herpotrichiellaceae family and the bantiana clade, and another for determining the species Fonsecaea pedrosoi and Fonsecaea monophora. Ultimately, the assays developed in this study aim to complement other identification approaches for these agents, reducing the need for sequencing, improving the management of these infections, and enhancing the accuracy of epidemiological information.
Population Structure of Phytophthora infestans in Israel Changes Frequently Due to the Import of Asymptomatic Late Blight-Infected Potato Seed Tubers from Europe
Authors: Cohen Yigal
Published: August 2024

Late blight, caused by the oomycete Phytophthora infestans, is a devastating disease of potato worldwide. In Israel, potatoes are grown twice a year, in autumn and spring, with late blight causing extensive damage in both seasons. While tuber seeds for the autumn planting are produced locally, seed tubers for the spring planting are imported from Europe due to dormancy of local tubers. Here, we demonstrate that seed tubers imported from Europe for the spring season carry asymptomatic infection with EU genotypes of P. infestans, which alters the population structure of the pathogen each spring. The proportion of imported tubers carrying asymptomatic infections ranged between 1.2 and 3.75%, varying by year and cultivar. Asymptomatic tubers produced late blight-infected sprouts about one month after planting. The sporangia produced on these sprouts served as primary inoculum, causing intensive foliage attacks on neighboring plants. When sprout-infected plants were uprooted and the mother tuber was washed, sliced, and placed in moistened dishes at 18 °C, profuse sporulation of P. infestans developed on the slices’ surfaces within 1–2 days. The dominant genotype of P. infestans in the autumn season in Israel is 23A1, but genotypes in the following spring season changed to include 13A2 or 36A2. Surprisingly, genotype 43A1, which might be resistant to CAA and OSBPI fungicides and appeared in Europe in 2022, emerged in Israel in spring 2024. The immigrating genotypes do not persist in the country, allowing 23A1 to regain predominance in the following autumn. Long-term monitoring data suggest that the population structure of P. infestans changes yearly but temporarily due to the import of new genotypes from Europe.
Synergistic Biocontrol and Growth Promotion in Strawberries by Co-Cultured Trichoderma harzianum TW21990 and Burkholderia vietnamiensis B418
Authors: Li Wenzhe , Fu Yiting , Jiang Yanqing , Hu Jindong , Wei Yanli , Li Hongmei , Li Jishun , Yang Hetong , Wu Yuanzheng
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to investigate the efficiency of the secondary metabolites (SMs) produced by a co-culture of Trichoderma harzianum TW21990 and Burkholderia vietnamiensis B418 in the control of Colletotrichum siamense CM9. A fermentation filtrate of B418 + TW21990 co-culture (BT21) produced a notable increase in the inhibition rate of CM9 compared to those of TW21990 and B418 monocultures, which reached 91.40% and 80.46% on PDA plates and strawberry leaves, respectively. The BT21 fermentation broth exhibited high control efficiency on strawberry root rot of 68.95% in a pot experiment, which was higher than that in the monocultures and fluazinam treatment. In addition, BT21 treatment promoted strawberry root development, improved antioxidative enzyme activities in the leaves and roots, and enhanced the total chlorophyll content of the strawberry leaves. UHPLC-MS/MS analysis of fermentation filtrates was performed to elucidate SM variations, revealing 478 and 795 metabolites in BT21 co-culture in positive and negative ion modes, respectively. The metabolomic profiles suggested abundant SMs with antagonistic capabilities and growth-promoting effects: 3-(propan-2-yl)-octahydropyrrolo [1,2-a]pyrazine-1,4-dione (cyclo(L-Pro-L-Val)), 3-[(4-hydroxyphenyl)methyl]-octahydropyrrolo[1,2-a]pyrazine-1,4-dione (cyclo(L-Pro-L-Tyr)), 3-indoleacetic acid (IAA), 2-hydroxycinnamic acid, 4-aminobutyric acid (GABA), bafilomycin B1, and DL-indole-3-lactic acid (ILA) were significantly enhanced in the co-culture. Overall, this study demonstrates that a co-culture strategy is efficient for inducing bioactive SMs in T. harzianum and B. vietnamiensis, which could be exploited as a novel approach for developing biocontrol consortia.
Chemical Composition, Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Shiitake Mushrooms (Lentinus edodes)
Authors: Xu Xiaoming , Yu Chong , Liu Zhenyang , Cui Xiaohang , Guo Xiaohe , Wang Haifeng
Published: August 2024

Shiitake mushrooms (Lentinus edodes) are renowned as the “King of mountain treasures” in China due to their abundant nutritional and health-enhancing properties. Intensive chemical investigations of the fruiting bodies and mycelium of Shiitake mushrooms (Lentinus edodes) afforded five new compounds (1–5), named lentinmacrocycles A-C and lentincoumarins A-B, along with fifteen known compounds (6–20). Their structures and absolute configurations were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analysis, including one-and two-dimensional (1D and 2D) NMR spectroscopy, circular dichroism (CD), and high-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (HR-ESI-MS). The anti-inflammatory activity test showed that lentincoumarins A (4), (3S)-7-hydroxymellein (9), (3R)-6-hydroxymellein (11) and succinic acid (18) exhibited strong NO inhibitory effects (IC50 < 35 μM), and that (3S)-5-hydroxymellein (10) and (3R)-6-hydroxymellein (11) exhibited potent TNF-α inhibitory effects (IC50 < 80 μM) and were more potent than the positive control, Indomethacin (IC50 = 88.5 ± 2.1 μM). The antioxidant activity test showed that (3R)-6-hydroxymellein (11) had better DPPH radical scavenging activity (IC50 = 25.2 ± 0.5 μM).
The Evidence for Perioperative Anesthetic Techniques in the Prevention of New-Onset or Recurrent Complex Regional Pain Syndrome in Hand Surgery
Authors: Chua Marcel , Ratnagandhi Avinassh , Seth Ishith , Lim Bryan , Cevik Jevan , Rozen Warren M.
Published: August 2024

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a multifaceted condition characterized by chronic neuropathic pain, allodynia, and hyperalgesia. The incidence of CRPS postoperatively is alarmingly high, particularly following carpal tunnel surgeries, Dupuytren’s fasciectomy, and repairs of wrist and hand fractures, with recurrence rates soaring in individuals with a history of CRPS. Despite extensive research, the management of CRPS remains complicated, highlighting the urgent need for effective prevention strategies. This scoping review aimed to consolidate current evidence surrounding the efficacy of perioperative anesthetic techniques in preventing new-onset or recurrent CRPS, focusing on the application of various anesthetic interventions. Through a comprehensive literature search, eight articles were identified, discussing a spectrum of techniques, including wide awake local anesthesia no tourniquet (WALANT) and various regional blockade methods. This review revealed that the WALANT technique, with its simplicity and lower costs, exhibited promising results in preventing CRPS. Conversely, techniques involving intravenous regional and axillary plexus blocks showed variable efficacy, necessitating further investigation. The scarcity of high-quality evidence underscores the critical need for meticulously designed, large-scale randomized controlled trials to validate these findings and explore the potential of stellate ganglion block in the prevention of recurrent CRPS.
Realized Volatility Spillover Connectedness among the Leading European Currencies after the End of the Sovereign-Debt Crisis: A QVAR Approach
Authors: Nerantzidis Michail , Stoupos Nikolaos , Tzeremes Panayiotis
Published: August 2024

This paper examines the time-varying spillover effects and connectedness between the euro and other EU and non-EU currencies after the end of the sovereign-debt crisis. We employ the Quantile Vector Autoregression connectedness approach using intraday data for seven currencies (the euro, the British pound, the Swiss franc, the Polish zloty, the Hungarian forint, the Czech koruna, and the Norwegian krone) spanning from 1 January 2016 to 30 November 2022. The results indicate that, almost in all quantiles, the currencies of Eastern European Group countries (i.e., Czech Republic, Hungary, and Poland) are net contributors of information spillovers to other currencies, while currencies of non-EU countries (Switzerland, UK, and Norway) are net takers. Further, we find that the euro is the highest transmitter of net information spillovers to all other currencies until 2021. Interestingly, after 2021, the euro changes to net information spillover taker from all other currencies; highlighting that external shocks (e.g., COVID-19, the energy crisis) have significant risk spillover effects on the European currency market. Policymakers and market participants could benefit from knowing which currency drives developments to avoid unexpected consequences.
Forecasting Credit Cycles: The Case of the Leveraged Finance Market in 2024 and Outlook
Authors: Altman Edward I.
Published: August 2024

There are certain times in our economic and financial environments when it makes sense to assess carefully and dispassionately where we are in the credit cycle and how this cycle relates to the business cycle. Now, mid-2024, is one of those times, as the economic uncertainties are at substantial levels. This note reflects my long history of studying credit cycles dating back to the early 1970s. My current assessment is that the Benign Credit Cycle we have enjoyed since 2010, with the exception of a few months in 2016 and early 2020, ended in 2023. We recently reached an inflection point for an average credit risk scenario. This assessment is based on an analysis of a number of historical indicators over the last 50 years. This conclusion is tempered by the possibility that the U.S. credit picture will continue its heightened risk trend toward a Stressed Scenario by the end of 2024, and combined with a “hard-landing” economic recession, we could witness another financial-credit crisis.
Smart Stick Navigation System for Visually Impaired Based on Machine Learning Algorithms Using Sensors Data
Authors: Gharghan Sadik Kamel , Kamel Hussein S. , Marir Asaower Ahmad , Saleh Lina Akram
Published: August 2024

Visually Impaired People (VIP) face significant challenges in their daily lives, relying on others or trained dogs for assistance when navigating outdoors. Researchers have developed the Smart Stick (SS) system as a more effective aid than traditional ones to address these challenges. Developing and utilizing the SS systems for VIP improves mobility, reliability, safety, and accessibility. These systems help users by identifying obstacles and hazards, keeping VIP safe and efficient. This paper presents the design and real-world implementation of an SS using an Arduino Nano microcontroller, GPS, GSM module, heart rate sensor, ultrasonic sensor, moisture sensor, vibration motor, and Buzzer. Based on sensor data, the SS can provide warning signals to VIP about the presence of obstacles and hazards around them. Several Machine Learning (ML) algorithms were used to improve the SS alert decision accuracy. Therefore, this paper used sensor data to train and test ten ML algorithms to find the most effective alert decision accuracy. Based on the ML algorithms, the alert decision, including the presence of obstacles, environmental conditions, and user health conditions, was examined using several performance metrics. Results showed that the AdaBoost, Gradient boosting, and Random Forest ML algorithms outperformed others and achieved an AUC and specificity of 100%, with 99.9% accuracy, F1-score, precision, recall, and MCC in the cross-validation phase. Integrating sensor data with ML algorithms revealed that the SS enables VIP to live independently and move safely without assistance.
Credibility and the Social Function of Property: A Saga of Mega-Dams, Eviction, and Privatization, as Told by Displaced Communities in Malaysia
Authors: Ho Peter , Nor-Hisham Bin Md Saman , Zhao Heng
Published: August 2024

Globally, the forced displacement of socially vulnerable communities causes significant contestation, irrespective of whether that occurs for mega-projects or smaller infrastructural, agricultural, urban renewal, or property developments. Despite multilateral guidelines for “socially inclusive” development, it is difficult to avoid the marginalization of evicted, local communities. Grounded on the credibility thesis, this article provides a new, theoretical basis for understanding the “social function of property” and how this may be used as a criterion to assess whether development-induced and resettlement projects should be given the go-ahead. Methodologically, this article employs the FAT (Formal, Actual, and Targeted) Institutional Framework to unpack the social function of property. To this end, it analyzes the acquisition and privatization of the common property of Indigenous Peoples to construct the Malaysian Bakun Hydroelectric Project, purportedly Asia’s second-largest dam. The FAT analysis ascertains the following three conditions on which basis projects should be halted: (1) the property of the evicted communities fulfills a critical role in providing social welfare; (2) the said function is disregarded by the expropriating agency; (3) the power divides between the expropriator and expropriated prevent meaningful participation by the latter. This study demonstrates that the social function of property can be effectively measured and validates the FAT Framework as a viable tool to analyze development-induced projects (and policies), with particular reference to expropriation, privatization, and formalization.