bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of phosphorus on growth and yield of sesame
Authors: Jahan Nushrat , Alam ABM Shafiul , Mitu Atiya Sharmin , Habib Md Ahasan , Rahman Md Sefaur
Published: September 2019

The present study was conducted at the Research farm of Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Dhaka, during March to June 2014 to examine the effect of Phosphorus on the growth and yield of Sesame. BARI Til-3 variety was used for the study. This experiment was consisted of single factor eg. phosphorus. There were three levels of phosphorus viz. (i) P0 (0 % P), (ii) P1 (20 % P) and (iii) P2 (30 % P) and the experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with six replications. Different levels of phosphorus showed significant effect on growth and yield of sesame. Individually phosphorus had significant effect on highest plant height, number of leaves plant-1, number of primary branches plant-1, number of secondary branches plant-1, number of capsule plant-1, number of seeds capsule-1, 1000 seed weight, seed yield and harvest index. The highest plant height of sesame (136.30 cm), the highest no leaves plant-1 of sesame (34.44), number of primary branches plant-1 (5.56), number of secondary branches plant-1 (7.61), number of capsule plant-1 (25.87), number of seed capsule-1 (70.47),1000 seed weight (3.54), Seed yield (1581.00 kg ha-1), Stover yield (3034.42 kg ha-1), biological yield (4615.76), harvest index (34.11%), oil content (43.92%) was recorded from P1. Again, the highest days to first flowering of sesame (31.67) was recorded from P1 (20 % P) but the highest days to maturity was (85.67) recorded from P2 (30% P). Application of P at different percentage is causing effect in growth and yield of sesame.

Res. Agric., Livest. Fish.6(2): 245-251, August 2019
Effect of nitrogen on growth, productivity and seed quality of long grain rice
Authors: Karim Md Rezaul , Mazumder Nazmul Islam , Sultana Tania , Ahmed Farid , Haque Md Shamiul , Roy Dinesh Chanda , Mondal Md Tanjilur Rahman , Sushmoy Deboprio Roy , Noor Md Mahmud Al
Published: September 2019

Field experiment was conducted at the experimental farm of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University, Gazipur during Aman season to optimize nitrogen requirement of long grain rice (var. BUdhan 1) in respect to high yield and seed quality. Seven levels of nitrogen fertilizer viz. 0, 20, 40, 60, 80,100 and 120 kg N ha-1 constituted the treatment variables. Application of nitrogen fertilizer significantly influenced morphological event of the variety where days required for expressing phenological events increased with the increase of nitrogen levels. Growth parameters like plant height (114.37 cm), tillers per hill (15.1) and dry matter accumulation were pronounced at higher level of nitrogen. However, plants with moderate level (60 kg ha-1) of applied nitrogen showed better yield component of the variety where the highest number of panicle per hill (11.8), grains per panicle (140.5) filled grains per panicle (130.33) and bolder seed size were recorded with 60 kg N ha-1. Better yield components of the variety obtained at 60 kg N ha-1 attributed to highest yield (4.43). Considering seed quality, seeds obtained from 60 kg N ha-1showed significantly higher viability, germination and vigor indices. Therefore, it is desirable to collect seeds of BUdhan 1 with moderate level of nitrogen to ensure higher yield with better seed quality of BUdhan 1.

Res. Agric., Livest. Fish.6(2): 279-287, August 2019
Prevalence of Dirofilaria immitis in the carnivores and its vectors in Mymensingh municipal area of Bangladesh
Authors: Billah Quazi Mustain , Karim Md Abdul , Hossain Md Billal , Dutta Pallab Kumar , Talukder Md Hasanuzzaman
Published: September 2019

Heartworm is a global problem caused by Dirofilaria immitis that occurs in some carnivores in tropics and subtropics including some temperate countries. There is also a public health implication, since infection in human is occasionally reported. We investigated the prevalence of D. immitis among carnivores and to identify its vectors and to correlate between them in the study area. We examined the prevalence of D. immitis in stray dogs, wild foxes, and community cats, and in their vectors in Mymensingh Municipal Area. In this study, following the guidelines of the animal welfare and experimentation ethical committee, euthanized animals and mosquitoes were investigated for adult parasites and microfilariae, respectively. Among animals investigated 56.0% of dogs and 71.4% of foxes and none of cats were infected with D. immitis. Infection in animal below 2 years of age were 46.1% and 66.6% in dogs and foxes respectively compared to 66.6% and 75.0% infection respectively in dogs and foxes above 2 years of age. In male the rate of infections were 61.5% in dogs and 75.0% in foxes compared to 50.0% in female dogs and 66.66% in female foxes. Microfilariae were detected in 44% dogs and 57.14% foxes examined. The Culex sp. had 11.3% and the Anopheles sp. had 6.1% infection, whereas none of the Aedes sp had any microfilariae. Since these dogs and foxes live near the human habitations in study area, it was considered a serious public health threat to humans. Because of both veterinary and public health significance, further detailed studies on the prevalence of D. immitis in Bangladesh are highly emphasized.

Res. Agric., Livest. Fish.6(2): 315-322, August 2019
Chemotherapy of gastrointestinal parasitic diseases in domestic pigeons (Columba livia) in Rajshahi division of Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman Shaziea , Khatun Rashida , Nahar Lavely , Khanum Tanjila
Published: September 2019

The present study was undertaken to find out the prevalence of gastrointestinal nematodes in pigeon (columba livia) at Rajshahi division from 01-01-2016 to 15-12-2016 and to evaluate the comparative efficacy piparazine citrate and levamisole HCL. Total 3 different species of parasites were recorded in this study and those were Ascaridia columbae, Capillilaria obsignata, Raillietina tetragona. Out of 263 pigeon, 109 pigeon having ascarid and capillaria positive were treatment with piparazine citrate and levamisole HCL. The pigeon were treated with recommended (10g mixed in 6 litre drinking water for 100 pigeon) dose of Ascarex® and recommended (1gm mixed in 1 litre drinking water) dose of Avinex® orally, respectively. The recovery rate of ascariasis at 7th days was 50.9% and capillariasis was 51.85%. After 21th days the recovery rate of ascariasis was 72.72% and capillariasis was 66.66%. The efficacy of drugs is more in case of young (77.27% at 7th days and 87.36% at 21th days) than adult (44.82% at 7th days and 65.51% at 21th days).In exotic breeds efficacy is good (60.41% at 7th days and 85.41% at 21th days) than indigenous breeds (44.26% at 7th days and 66.65% at 21th days). The recovery rate is more in traditional (65.3% at 7th days and 78.33% at 21th days) than commercial farming system (42.85% at 7th days and 58.33% at 21th days).

Res. Agric., Livest. Fish.6(2): 323-328, August 2019
“Band Wagon and Gravy Train”: uses and abuses along the Silk Road
Authors: Ball Warwick
Published: September 2019

The Silk Road as an image is a relatively new one for Afghanistan. It appeals to both the pre-Islamic and the perceived Islamic past, thus offering an Islamic balance to previous identities linked to Bamiyan or to the Kushans. It also appeals to a broader and more international image, one that has been taken up by many other countries. This paper traces the rise of the image of the Silk Road and its use as a metaphor for ancient trade to encompass all contacts throughout Eurasia, prehistoric, ancient and modern, but also how the image has been adopted and expanded into many other areas: politics, tourism and academia. It is argued here that the origin and popularity of the term lies in late 20th century (and increasingly 21st century) politics rather than any reality of ancient trade. Its consequent validity as a metaphor in academic discussion is questioned
Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Extra-axial Tumor
Authors: Sensusiati Anggraini Dwi
Published: September 2019

The first step in making decision of intra-cranial tumors is the location of tumor, whether intra- or extra-axial. After localized the lesion we make differential diagnosis that relevant to the location. Once we made the decision, we make the characterization of the tumors. With MRI it is easier to make this decision compared to CT.Meningiomas constitute the most common extra-axial tumors of the brain. Contrast-enhanced MRI can easily detect the location of the tumor, the full extension of the tumor, sinus invasion and/or thrombosis, vascularity, intra-cranial edema, and intra-osseous extension. WHO grades meningiomas in 3 types which are typical, atypical, and malignant meningioma. With structural MRI, MR Spectroscopy, MR perfusion and some methods we can grade this type.Tumors of neurogenic origin such as schwannomas, neurofibromas, neuromas may be similar in appearance. MRI can help distinguishing these tumors with meningiomas. Another extra-axial lesion located in bone or arachnoid is metastases. Contrast-enhanced T2-FLAIR can easily detect these lesions, but inflammatory lesions may also simulate dural metastase. Other extra-axial tumors are choroid plexus masses, non-neoplastic masses (epidermoids, dermoids, teratomas, lipomas). The location as well as specific appearances on imaging will guide us to a specific diagnosis.
Limfografi Magnetic Resonance pada Limfedema Ekstrimitas Inferior
Authors: Sudarmanta Sudarmanta , Azzahra Siti Fatimah
Published: September 2019

Patients with both primary and secondary lymphedema must undergo appropriate examinations to evaluate variations and characteristics of lymphedema in order to determine optimal clinical management and appropriate definitive treatment. Appropriate minimally-invasive imaging has an important role in the management of lymphedema, especially lymph-venous microsurgery. The familiarization of appropriate techniques helps radiologists in recognizing, reporting, and determining the management of lymphedema. The purpose of this article is to discuss lymphatic anatomy and pathology, Magnetic Resonance Imaging technique, and points to report on in order to assist the management of lower extremity lymphedema.
Peranan Radiologi dan Radioterapi pada Penatalaksanaan Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumor
Authors: Dhamiyati Wigati , Dwidanarti Sri Retna , Nurmalia Nurmalia
Published: September 2019

Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST) is biologically an aggressive tumor of soft tissue sarcoma. MPNSTs represent 5–10% of all soft-tissue sarcomas. They correspond to malignant forms of neurofibromas and schwannomas. The main clinical symptoms of MPNST are increasing size of tumors, local or radicular pain, paraparesis, and paresthesia and/or weakness of extremities.Radiological imaging is important to determine the site and extension of the tumor, especially before surgery. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the imaging modality of choice. To some extent, MPNSTs share basic imaging characteristics with benign peripheral nerve sheath tumor, although there are some evidence of malignant transformation. Diagnosis may be challenging because there are no specific immunohistochemical or molecular markers. However, Histopathological examination is needed for definitive diagnosisThe mainstay of treatment is surgical resection. The goal of the operation is to achieve complete surgical excision of the tumor with negative (wide) margins. Together with wide surgical excision, radiation therapy offers the best outcome of local and overall survival rates.
Diplatin, a Novel and Low-Toxicity Anti-Lung Cancer Platinum Complex, Activation of Cell Death in Tumors via a ROS/JNK/p53-Dependent Pathway, and a Low Rate of Acquired Treatment Resistance
Authors: Lin Xixi , Jia Yongliang , Dong Xinwei , Shen Jian , Jin Yachao , Li Yanyou , Wang Fang , Anenberg Eitan , Zhou Jiancang , Zhu Jianping , Chen Xiaoping , Xie Qiangmin , Xie Yicheng
Published: September 2019

Background: Platinum-based drugs prevail as the main treatment of lung cancer; this is caused by their relative effectiveness despite known side effects, such as neurotoxicity. The risk reward of the treatment and side effects is confronted when dosage is considered and when resistance to treatment develops. Development of new compounds that improve effectiveness and safety profiles addresses this ongoing need in clinical practice.

Objectives: The novel water-soluble platinum complex, diplatin, was synthesized, and its antitumor potency and toxicology profile were evaluated in murine xenograft tumor models and in lung cancer cell lines.

Methods: The effects of diplatin, cisplatin (DDP), and carboplatin (CBP) on the viability of nine lung tumor cell lines and one normal human lung epithelial cell line were evaluated using the MTT assay. Therapeutic index was calculated as LD50/ED50 to identify and compare the ideal therapeutic windows of the above compounds. Diplatin’s antitumor effects were assessed in lung xenograft tumors of nude mice; molecular mechanisms of therapeutic effects were identified.

Results: Diplatin had desirable IC50 compared to CBP in a variety of cultured tumor cells, notably lung tumor cells. In the mouse xenograft lung tumor, diplatin led to a substantially improved therapeutic index when compared to the effects of DDP and CBP. Importantly, diplatin inhibited the growth of DDP-resistant lung tumor cells. Diplatin’s mode of action was characterized to be through cell cycle arrest in the G2/M phase and induction of lung tumor apoptosis via ROS/JNK/p53-mediated pathways.

Conclusion: Diplatin was observed to have antitumor effects in mice with both greater potency and safety compared with DDP and CBP. These observations indicate that diplatin is promising as a potential treatment in future clinical applications.
Combining Satellite Images and Cadastral Information for Outdoor Autonomous Mapping and Navigation: A Proof-of-Concept Study in Citric Groves
Authors: Torres-Sospedra Joaquín , Nebot Patricio
Published: September 2019

The development of robotic applications for agricultural environments has several problems which are not present in the robotic systems used for indoor environments. Some of these problems can be solved with an efficient navigation system. In this paper, a new system is introduced to improve the navigation tasks for those robots which operate in agricultural environments. Concretely, the paper focuses on the problem related to the autonomous mapping of agricultural parcels (i.e., an orange grove). The map created by the system will be used to help the robots navigate into the parcel to perform maintenance tasks such as weed removal, harvest, or pest inspection. The proposed system connects to a satellite positioning service to obtain the real coordinates where the robotic system is placed. With these coordinates, the parcel information is downloaded from an online map service in order to autonomously obtain a map of the parcel in a readable format for the robot. Finally, path planning is performed by means of Fast Marching techniques using the robot or a team of two robots. This paper introduces the proof-of-concept and describes all the necessary steps and algorithms to obtain the path planning just from the initial coordinates of the robot.
The Performance of Mesotrophic Arrhenatheretum Grassland under Different Cutting Frequency Regimes for Biomass Production in Southwest Germany
Authors: von Cossel Moritz , Bauerle Andrea , Boob Meike , Thumm Ulrich , Elsaesser Martin , Lewandowski Iris
Published: September 2019

Biogas production is a key renewable energy pathway for a more sustainable future bioeconomy. However, there is a crucial trade-off between biomass productivity and social-ecological sustainability of available biogas cropping systems. Permanent grassland has been frequently promoted as a promising perennial cropping system for biomass production. Three- and four-cut regimes are usually the highest-yielding and thus preferable for biogas production. A three-year field trial in southwest Germany investigated biomass yield and biochemical composition of mesotrophic Arrhenatheretum grassland under three cutting regimes (two-, three- and four-cut). For the three-cut regime, a preliminary biogas batch test was conducted. The three-cut regime had the highest annual accumulated dry matter yield (11.8–14.8 Mg ha−1), an average specific methane yield of 0.289 m3N kg−1 volatile solids−1 and an accumulated annual methane yield of 3167–3893 m³N ha−1. The four-cut regime performed least favorably due to a lower dry matter yield than the three-cut regime, the highest ash content and the highest nitrogen content. Thus, the three-cut regime promises the best yield performance, whereas the two-cut regime can potentially provide more ecosystem services such as biodiversity conservation and wild-game protection. Consequently, the two-cut regime could help improve the social-ecological sustainability of biogas crop cultivation.
Analysis of Critical Control Points of Post-Harvest Diseases in the Material Flow of Nam Dok Mai Mango Exported to Japan
Authors: Matulaprungsan Benjamaporn , Wongs-Aree Chalermchai , Penchaiya Pathompong , Boonyaritthongchai Panida , Srisurapanon Viroat , Kanlayanarat Sirichai
Published: September 2019

‘Nam Dok Mai’ mango is a luxury commercial fruit in Thailand, but post-harvest diseases infecting the ripe fruit is a major problem affecting marketability. The objective of the present study was to map the supply chain of ‘Nam Dok Mai’ mangoes exported to Japan and analyze the critical points of post-harvest disease infection caused mainly by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides. Risk points of the post-harvest diseases were found by examining the material and information flows from processes ranging from field production to post-harvest handling, and these were obtained from mango growers and an exporter. The findings of interviews with mango growers and observations of the mangoes in field production were that the first point of risk was cultivar selection, while branch pruning and fruit bagging were further important processes causing post-harvest fruit decay. On the other hand, it was found that post-harvest handling was significant in decreasing anthracnose disease infection; this was seen at the step of dipping the fruit in 50 °C hot water for 3 min at the processing line.
Enhancing Zinc Accumulation and Bioavailability in Wheat Grains by Integrated Zinc and Pesticide Application
Authors: Ning Peng , Wang Shaoxia , Fei Peiwen , Zhang Xiaoyuan , Dong Jinjin , Shi Jianglan , Tian Xiaohong
Published: September 2019

Incorporating foliar zinc (Zn) spray into existing pesticide application is considered highly cost-effective to biofortify wheat (Triticum aestivum) with Zn. However, the effectiveness of this combined approach in terms of Zn enrichment and bioavailability in grain and its milling fractions is not well examined. Two-year field experiments were conducted in 2017 and 2018 with three sets of foliar applications (nil Zn as control, foliar Zn alone, and foliar Zn plus pesticides) at the anthesis, milk stage, or both. Compared to the control, grain yield was not affected by foliar Zn application alone or combined with pesticides, while the Zn concentrations and bioavailability substantially increased in the whole-grain, bran, and flour irrespective of spray timing. Yield losses by 28%–39% (2018 vs. 2017) led to 7%–18% and 18%–38% increase of Zn density in grain and flour, respectively. Further, such negative responses were uncoupled by foliar spray of Zn or Zn plus pesticides, and absent from the control plants. Nonetheless, grain Zn biofortification was achieved in both low- and high-yield plants with either Zn spray alone or combined with pesticides. Together with the enhanced Zn bioavailability in grain, bran, and flour, the effectiveness of this combined strategy is validated to biofortify wheat with Zn.
Effects of Phytonutrients on Ruminal Fermentation, Digestibility, and Microorganisms in Swamp Buffaloes
Authors: Ampapon Thiwakorn , Phesatcha Kampanat , Wanapat Metha
Published: September 2019

This experiment aimed to use dietary sources containing phytonutrients (PTN) such as mangosteen peel powder (MSP) and banana flower powder (BFP) as sources of phytonutrients. Four swamp buffalo bulls fitted with rumen fistulae were used as experimental animals. A digestion trial covering four periods was used according to a 4 × 4 Latin square design with four treatments: Treatment 1 (T1) = control (Cont), T2 = supplementation of PTN1 fed at 100 g/d, T3 = supplementation of PTN2 fed at 100 g/d, and T4 = supplementation of PTN3 fed at 100 g/d. The experiment was conducted for four periods; each period lasted for 21 days. All animals were fed a concentrate mixture at 0.5% body weight, while rice straw, water, and mineral blocks were fed ad libitum. The findings revealed significant increases in the digestibility of neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF), while no changes in dry matter feed consumption occurred due to PTN supplementation. Rumen fermentation end-products, such as total volatile fatty acids (TVFA), propionic acid (C3), and butyric acid (C4), were notably enhanced (p < 0.05) and there were the highest in PTN2 and PTN3, whilst acetic acid (C2) was significantly decreased with PTN supplementation groups. Furthermore, the rumen protozoal population was suppressed (p < 0.05), which resulted in decreased rumen methane production (p < 0.05), while the bacterial population was enhanced. Using PTN sources can improve rumen fermentation as well as mitigating rumen methane production.
Structural Analysis of The OXA-48 Carbapenemase Bound to A “Poor” Carbapenem Substrate, Doripenem
Authors: Papp-Wallace Krisztina M. , Kumar Vijay , Zeiser Elise T. , Becka Scott A. , van den Akker Focco
Published: September 2019

Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae are a significant threat to public health, and a major resistance determinant that promotes this phenotype is the production of the OXA-48 carbapenemase. The activity of OXA-48 towards carbapenems is a puzzling phenotype as its hydrolytic activity against doripenem is non-detectable. To probe the mechanistic basis for this observation, we determined the 1.5 Å resolution crystal structure of the deacylation deficient K73A variant of OXA-48 in complex with doripenem. Doripenem is observed in the Δ1R and Δ1S tautomeric states covalently attached to the catalytic S70 residue. Likely due to positioning of residue Y211, the carboxylate moiety of doripenem is making fewer hydrogen bonding/salt-bridge interactions with R250 compared to previously determined carbapenem OXA structures. Moreover, the hydroxyethyl side chain of doripenem is making van der Waals interactions with a key V120 residue, which likely affects the deacylation rate of doripenem. We hypothesize that positions V120 and Y211 play important roles in the carbapenemase profile of OXA-48. Herein, we provide insights for the further development of the carbapenem class of antibiotics that could render them less effective to hydrolysis by or even inhibit OXA carbapenemases.
Carbapenemase-Producing Elizabethkingia Meningoseptica from Healthy Pigs Associated with Colistin Use in Spain
Authors: Miguela-Villoldo Pedro , Hernández Marta , Moreno Miguel Á. , Rodríguez-Lázaro David , Quesada Alberto , Domínguez Lucas , Ugarte-Ruiz María
Published: September 2019

Carbapenems are considered last-resort antimicrobials, especially for treating infections involving multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria. In recent years, extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) and carbapenemase-producing Gram-negative bacteria have become widespread in hospitals, community settings, and the environment, reducing the range of effective therapeutic alternatives. The use of colistin to treat infection caused by these multi-drug bacteria may favour the selection and persistence of carbapenem-resistant bacteria. In this study, it is described, for the first time to our knowledge, a carbapenemase-producing isolate of Elizabethkingia meningoseptica from healthy pigs in Spain. The isolate we report was recovered during a study to detect colistin-resistant bacteria from faecal samples of healthy food-production animals using a chromogenic selective medium. Unexpectedly, we found an isolate of Elizabethkingia meningoseptica with high Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) values for several antibiotics tested. Molecular analysis did not show any mcr family genes related with colistin resistance, but two carbapenemase genes, blaB-12_1 and blaGOB-17_1, were detected. This finding in healthy animals could suggest that colistin may favour the selection and persistence of carbapenem-resistant bacteria.
Preparation and Characterization of Corn Starch Bio-Active Edible Packaging Films Based on Zein Incorporated with Orange-Peel Oil
Authors: Wang Yue , Zhang Rong , Ahmed Saeed , Qin Wen , Liu Yaowen
Published: September 2019

Zein, corn starch (CS), and orange-peel oil (OPO) extracted from orange peels were used to prepare novel corn starch/orange-peel oil/zein nanocapsules (OZN) bio-active food packaging materials. The results showed that the OZN were round, smooth and in compact morphology with an average diameter of 102.7 ± 10.5 nm from OPO and zein (3:10, w/w). By testing the turbidity and atomic force microscopy (AFM) of OZN and the mechanical properties and water vapor permeability of the composite films, the comprehensive properties of composite films with different mass ratios were analyzed. It showed that the addition of OZN improved the mechanical and moisture barrier properties and extended the release time of OPO. When the ratio of OZN and CS is 5:5, the highest elongation at break and tensile strengths is achieved, at values of 30.91% ± 2.52% and 12.19 ± 1.97 MPa respectively. The relative release concentration of OPO was highest at a ratio of 5/5, and over time it would last longer to maintain a higher release concentration. Besides, the oxidation resistance of the composite film was good, especially when the ration of starch CS to OZN was 5/5, it had the highest DPPH radical scavenging activity (30.16% ± 1.69%). Thus, it can be used as a bio-active edible food packaging film to ensure the safety of food products and reduce environmental pressure to some extent.
Hydroxytyrosol Supplementation Modifies Plasma Levels of Tissue Inhibitor of Metallopeptidase 1 in Women with Breast Cancer
Authors: Ramirez-Tortosa Cesar , Sanchez Ana , Perez-Ramirez Cristina , Quiles Jose Luis , Robles-Almazan María , Pulido-Moran Mario , Sanchez-Rovira Pedro , Ramirez-Tortosa MCarmen
Published: September 2019

The etiology of breast cancer can be very different. Most antineoplastic drugs are not selective against tumor cells and also affect normal cells, leading to a wide variety of adverse reactions such as the production of free radicals by altering the redox state of the organisms. Therefore, the objective of this study was to elucidate if hydroxytyrosol (HT) (an antioxidant present in extra virgin olive oil) has a chemomodulatory effect when combined with the chemotherapeutic drugs epirubicin and cyclophosphamide followed by taxanes in breast cancer patients. Changes in plasma levels of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 1 (TIMP-1) throughout the chemotherapy treatment were studied. Both molecules are involved in cell proliferation, apoptosis, neoangiogenesis, and metastasis in breast cancer patients. Women with breast cancer were divided into two groups: a group of patients receiving a dietary supplement of HT and a control group of patients receiving placebo. The results showed that the plasma levels of TIMP-1 in the group of patients receiving HT were significantly lower than those levels found in the control group after the epirubicin-cyclophosphamide chemotherapy.
Thermo-Mechanical Properties of PLA/Short Flax Fiber Biocomposites
Authors: Aliotta Laura , Gigante Vito , Coltelli Maria-Beatrice , Cinelli Patrizia , Lazzeri Andrea , Seggiani Maurizia
Published: September 2019

In this work, biocomposites based on poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and short flax fibers (10–40 wt.%) were produced by extrusion and characterized in terms of thermal, mechanical, morphological, and thermo-mechanical properties. Analytical models were adopted to predict the tensile properties (stress at break and elastic modulus) of the composites, and to assess the matrix/fiber interface adhesion. The resulting composites were easily processable by extrusion and injection molding up to 40 wt.% of flax fibers. It was observed that despite any superficial treatment of fibers, the matrix/fiber adhesion was found to be sufficiently strong to ensure an efficient load transfer between the two components obtaining composites with good mechanical properties. The best mechanical performance, in terms of break stress (66 MPa), was obtained with 20 wt.% of flax fibers. The flax fiber acted also as nucleating agent for PLA, leading to an increment of the composite stiffness and, at 40 wt.% of flax fibers, improving the elastic modulus decay near the PLA glass transition temperature.
Welding Capabilities of Nanostructured Carbide-Free Bainite: Review of Welding Methods, Materials, Problems, and Perspectives
Authors: Królicka Aleksandra , Ambroziak Andrzej , Żak Andrzej
Published: September 2019

This article presents state-of-the-art welding methods and the weldability aspect of steels, particularly high-carbon nanobainitic (NB) steels, without carbide precipitates (CFB—carbide-free bainite). On the basis of research conducted to date, all welding methods with parameters and weld metals for NB CFB are presented. It was found that the process parameters significantly affected the mechanical properties of the welds, which were determined primarily by the properties of the low-temperature heat-affected zone. The microstructures of welded joints in the heat-affected and fusion zones are also described. The general requirements for welding processes, as well as problems and perspectives for further research, are presented.
Target Points Tracking Control for Autonomous Cleaning Vehicle Based on the LSTM Network
Authors: Wang Hua , Chen Xi , Miao Zhonghua
Published: September 2019

In order to efficiently and exactly in tracking the desired path points, autonomous cleaning vehicles have to adapt their own behavior according to the perceived environmental information. This paper proposes a target points tracking control algorithm based on the Long Short-Term Memory network, which can generate the speed and yaw rate to arrive at the target point in real time. The target point is obtained by a parameter named foresight distance that is deduced based on the fuzzy control, whose inputs are the speed and yaw rate of the vehicle at the current point. The effectiveness of the proposed algorithm is illustrated by the simulation and field experiments. Compared with other classical algorithms, this algorithm can track the point sequence on straight path and multiple curvature path more accurately. The field experiment indicates the proposed controller is efficient in following the pre-defined path points, furthermore, it can make the autonomous cleaning vehicle run smoothly in the path which is disturbed by bounded disturbances. The distance errors can meet the actual requirement of the cleaning vehicle during the tracking process.
Experimental and Numerical Study of Edge Defects When Turning 17vol.% SiCp/2009Al Composites
Authors: Zhou Li , Xiang Junfeng , Yi Jie , Gao Peng , Xie Jiaqing
Published: September 2019

In this work, a three-dimensional large-deformation thermo-elastic-plastic finite element model for oblique cutting was established to analyze edge defects during the machining of 17vol.% SiCp/2009Al composites. The formation process of edge defects at the workpiece exit during turning was investigated, and the influence of depth of cut, feed rate, and spindle speed on the edge defect sizes at the workpiece exit was explored. The results show that a negative deformation plane began to form as the cutting tool approached the exit end of cut, and the resultant cracks propagated towards the negative shear deformation plane, which led to workpiece edge defects. In addition, the size of edge defects increased with increasing depth of cut and feed rate, while the spindle speed had less influence on the size of edge defects. The numerical results of the effects of cutting parameters on edge defects were also compared to those of the turning experimental data, and were found to be in reasonable agreement.
Detection and 3D Visualization of Deformations for High-Rise Buildings in Shenzhen, China from High-Resolution TerraSAR-X Datasets
Authors: Wu Wenqing , Cui Haotian , Hu Jun , Yao Lina
Published: September 2019

Shenzhen, a coastal city, has changed from a small village to a supercity since the late 1980s. With the rapid development of its population and economy, ground disasters also occur frequently. These disasters bring great harm to human life and surface architecture. However, there is a lack of regular ground measurement data in this area. Permanent scatterer interferometry (PSI) technology can detect millimeter deformation of urban surface. In this paper, the building height and deformation from 2008 to 2010 in the Futian District of Shenzhen are obtained by using this technique alongside high-resolution TerraSAR-X data. For a visual expression of the result, we export the permanent scatterer (PS) points on buildings to Google Earth for 3D visualization after ortho-rectification of the PS height. Based on the Google Earth 3D model, the temporal and spatial characteristics of the building deformation became obvious. The InSAR measurements show that during the study period, the deformation rates of the Futian area are between −10 and 10 mm/year, and deformation is mainly distributed in a few buildings. These unstable activities can be attributed to human activities and the natural climate, which provides a reference for the local government to carry out a survey of surface deformation, as well as the monitoring and management of urban buildings, in the future.
Binge Drinking among Economically Disadvantaged African American Older Adults with Diabetes
Authors: Assari Shervin , Smith James L. , Saqib Mohammed , Bazargan Mohsen
Published: September 2019

Purpose. This study investigated the effect of demographic, socioeconomic, and psychological factors as well as the role of health determinants on alcohol consumption and binge drinking among economically disadvantaged African American older adults with type 2 diabetes mellites (T2DM). Methods. This survey recruited 231 African Americans who were older adults (age 65+ years) and had T2DM. Participants were selected from economically disadvantaged areas of South Los Angeles. A structured face-to-face interview was conducted to collect data on demographic factors, objective and subjective socioeconomic status (SES) including education and financial difficulty, living arrangement, marital status, health, and drinking behaviors (drinking and binge drinking). Results. Age, gender, living alone, pain, comorbid conditions, and smoking were associated with drinking/binge drinking. Male gender, pain, and being a smoker were associated with higher odds of drinking/binge drinking, while individuals with more comorbid medical conditions had lower odds of binge drinking. Conclusion. In economically constrained urban environments, gender, pain, and smoking but not age, SES, depression, and health may predict binge drinking for African American older adults with T2DM. African Americans older adult men with T2DM with comorbid pain should be screened for binge drinking.
Significance of BRAF Kinase Inhibitors for Melanoma Treatment: From Bench to Bedside
Authors: Fujimura Taku , Fujisawa Yasuhiro , Kambayashi Yumi , Aiba Setsuya
Published: September 2019

According to clinical trials, BRAF kinase inhibitors in combination with MEK kinase inhibitors are among the most promising chemotherapy regimens for the treatment of advanced BRAF-mutant melanoma, though the rate of BRAF mutation gene-bearing cutaneous melanoma is limited, especially in the Asian population. In addition, drug resistance sometimes abrogates the persistent efficacy of combined therapy with BRAF and MEK inhibitors. Therefore, recent pre-clinical study-based clinical trials have attempted to identify optimal drugs (e.g., immune checkpoint inhibitors or histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors) that improve the anti-melanoma effects of BRAF and MEK inhibitors. In addition, the development of novel protocols to avoid resistance of BRAF inhibitors is another purpose of recent pre-clinical and early clinical trials. This review focuses on pre-clinical studies and early to phase III clinical trials to discuss the development of combined therapy based on BRAF inhibitors for BRAF-mutant advanced melanoma, as well as mechanisms of resistance to BRAF inhibitors.
The miR-205-5p/BRCA1/RAD17 Axis Promotes Genomic Instability in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinomas
Authors: Valenti Fabio , Sacconi Andrea , Ganci Federica , Grasso Giuseppe , Strano Sabrina , Blandino Giovanni , Di Agostino Silvia
Published: September 2019

Defective DNA damage response (DDR) is frequently associated with tumorigenesis. Abrogation of DDR leads to genomic instability, which is one of the most common characteristics of human cancers. TP53 mutations with gain-of-function activity are associated with tumors under high replicative stress, high genomic instability, and reduced patient survival. The BRCA1 and RAD17 genes encode two pivotal DNA repair proteins required for proper cell-cycle regulation and maintenance of genomic stability. We initially evaluated whether miR-205-5p, a microRNA (miRNA) highly expressed in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), targeted BRCA1 and RAD17 expression. We found that, in vitro and in vivo, BRCA1 and RAD17 are targets of miR-205-5p in HNSCC, leading to inefficient DNA repair and increased chromosomal instability. Conversely, miR-205-5p downregulation increased BRCA1 and RAD17 messenger RNA (mRNA) levels, leading to a reduction in in vivo tumor growth. Interestingly, miR-205-5p expression was significantly anti-correlated with BRCA1 and RAD17 targets. Furthermore, we documented that miR-205-5p expression was higher in tumoral and peritumoral HNSCC tissues than non-tumoral tissues in patients exhibiting reduced local recurrence-free survival. Collectively, these findings unveil miR-205-5p’s notable role in determining genomic instability in HNSCC through its selective targeting of BRCA1 and RAD17 gene expression. High miR-205-5p levels in the peritumoral tissues might be relevant for the early detection of minimal residual disease and pre-cancer molecular alterations involved in tumor development.
18F-Facbc in Prostate Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Laudicella Riccardo , Albano Domenico , Alongi Pierpaolo , Argiroffi Giovanni , Bauckneht Matteo , Baldari Sergio , Bertagna Francesco , Boero Michele , Vincentis Giuseppe De , Sole Angelo Del , Rubini Giuseppe , Fantechi Lorenzo , Frantellizzi Viviana , Ganduscio Gloria , Guglielmo Priscilla , Nappi Anna Giulia , Evangelista Laura , on the behalf of Young AIMN Working Group
Published: September 2019

Trans-1-amino-3-18F-fluorocyclobutanecarboxylic-acid (anti-[18F]-FACBC) has been approved for the detection of prostate cancer (PCa) in patients with elevated prostate-specific-antigen following prior treatment. This review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate the diagnostic performance of 18F-FACBC positron emission tomography/computed-tomography (PET/CT) in the detection of primary/recurrent PCa. A bibliographic search was performed including several databases, using the following terms: “FACBC”/“fluciclovine” AND “prostate cancer”/“prostate” AND “PET”/“Positron Emission Tomography”. Fifteen and 9 studies were included in the systematic reviews and meta-analysis, respectively. At patient-based analysis, the pooled sensitivity and specificity of 18F-FACBC-PET/CT for the assessment of PCa were 86.3% and 75.9%, respectively. The pooled diagnostic odds-ratio value was 16.453, with heterogeneity of 30%. At the regional-based-analysis, the pooled sensitivity of 18F-FACBC-PET/CT for the evaluation of primary/recurrent disease in the prostatic bed was higher than in the extra-prostatic regions (90.4% vs. 76.5%, respectively); conversely, the pooled specificity was higher for the evaluation of extra-prostatic region than the prostatic bed (89% vs. 45%, respectively). 18F-FACBC-PET/CT seems to be promising in recurrent PCa, particularly for the evaluation of the prostatic bed. Additional studies to evaluate its utility in clinical routine are mandatory.
A Novel Chromosomal Translocation Identified due to Complex Genetic Instability in iPSC Generated for Choroideremia
Authors: Erkilic Nejla , Gatinois Vincent , Torriano Simona , Bouret Pauline , Sanjurjo-Soriano Carla , De Luca Valerie , Damodar Krishna , Cereso Nicolas , Puechberty Jacques , Sanchez-Alcudia Rocio , Hamel Christian P. , Ayuso Carmen , Meunier Isabelle , Pellestor Franck , Kalatzis Vasiliki
Published: September 2019

Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have revolutionized the study of human diseases as they can renew indefinitely, undergo multi-lineage differentiation, and generate disease-specific models. However, the difficulty of working with iPSCs is that they are prone to genetic instability. Furthermore, genetically unstable iPSCs are often discarded, as they can have unforeseen consequences on pathophysiological or therapeutic read-outs. We generated iPSCs from two brothers of a previously unstudied family affected with the inherited retinal dystrophy choroideremia. We detected complex rearrangements involving chromosomes 12, 20 and/or 5 in the generated iPSCs. Suspecting an underlying chromosomal aberration, we performed karyotype analysis of the original fibroblasts, and of blood cells from additional family members. We identified a novel chromosomal translocation t(12;20)(q24.3;q11.2) segregating in this family. We determined that the translocation was balanced and did not impact subsequent retinal differentiation. We show for the first time that an undetected genetic instability in somatic cells can breed further instability upon reprogramming. Therefore, the detection of chromosomal aberrations in iPSCs should not be disregarded, as they may reveal rearrangements segregating in families. Furthermore, as such rearrangements are often associated with reproductive failure or birth defects, this in turn has important consequences for genetic counseling of family members.
Single-Cell Transcriptomes Reveal Characteristic Features of Mouse Hepatocytes with Liver Cholestatic Injury
Authors: Chang Na , Tian Lei , Ji Xiaofang , Zhou Xuan , Hou Lei , Zhao Xinhao , Yang Yuanru , Yang Lin , Li Liying
Published: September 2019

Hepatocytes are the main parenchymal cells of the liver and play important roles in liver homeostasis and disease process. The heterogeneity of normal hepatocytes has been reported, but there is little knowledge about hepatocyte subtype and distinctive functions during liver cholestatic injury. Bile duct ligation (BDL)-induced mouse liver injury model was employed, and single-cell RNA sequencing was performed. Western blot and qPCR were used to study gene expression. Immunofluoresence was employed to detect the expressions of marker genes in hepatocytes. We detected a specific hepatocyte cluster (BDL-6) expressing extracellular matrix genes, indicating these hepatocytes might undergo epithelia-mesenchymal transition. Hepatocytes of BDL-6 also performed tissue repair functions (such as angiogenesis) during cholestatic injury. We also found that four clusters of cholestatic hepatocytes (BDL-2, BDL-3, BDL-4, and BDL-5) were involved in inflammatory process in different ways. To be specific, BDL-2/3/5 were inflammation-regulated hepatocytes, while BDL-4 played a role in cell chemotaxis. Among these four clusters, BDL-5 was special. because the hepatocytes of BDL-5 were proliferating hepatocytes. Our analysis provided more knowledge of hepatocyte distinctive functions in injured liver and gave rise to future treatment aiming at hepatocytes.
Three New Lizard Species of the Liolaemus montanus Group from Perú
Authors: Aguilar-Puntriano César , Ramírez César , Castillo Ernesto , Mendoza Alejandro , Vargas Victor J. , Sites Jack W.
Published: September 2019

Three new species of Liolaemus belonging to the L. montanus group are described from Perú. Two new species are restricted to the Ica and Moquegua departments on the Pacific coast, and one new species is only known from an isolated highland in Ayacucho department. These three new species differ from closely related species in their coloration patterns and head shape. We comment on the conservation issues of the new species and other Peruvian species of the L. montanus group.
Detecting Fake Finger-Vein Data Using Remote Photoplethysmography
Authors: Bok Jin Yeong , Suh Kun Ha , Lee Eui Chul
Published: September 2019

Today, biometrics is being widely used in various fields. Finger-vein is a type of biometric information and is based on finger-vein patterns unique to each individual. Various spoofing attacks have recently become a threat to biometric systems. A spoofing attack is defined as an unauthorized user attempting to deceive a system by presenting fake samples of registered biometric information. Generally, finger-vein recognition, using blood vessel characteristics inside the skin, is known to be more difficult when producing counterfeit samples than other biometrics, but several spoofing attacks have still been reported. To prevent spoofing attacks, conventional finger-vein recognition systems mainly use the difference in texture information between real and fake images, but such information may appear different depending on the camera. Therefore, we propose a method that can detect forged finger-vein independently of a camera by using remote photoplethysmography. Our main idea is to get the vital sign of arterial blood flow, a biometric measure indicating life. In this paper, we selected the frequency spectrum of time domain signal obtained from a video, as the feature, and then classified data as real or fake using the support vector machine classifier. Consequently, the accuracy of the experimental result was about 96.46%.
Performance Analysis of Synchronous Reluctance Motor with Limited Amount of Permanent Magnet
Authors: Ngo Duc-Kien , Hsieh Min-Fu
Published: September 2019

This paper analyzes the performance of a synchronous reluctance motor (SynRM) equipped with a limited amount of a permanent magnet (PM). This is conventionally implemented by inserting PMs in rotor flux barriers, and this is often called the PM-assisted SynRM (PMa-SynRM). However, common PMa-SynRMs could be vulnerable to irreversible demagnetization. Therefore, motor performance and PM demagnetization should be simultaneously considered, and this would require the PM to be properly arranged. In this paper, various rotor configurations are carefully studied and compared in order to maximize the motor performance, avoid irreversible demagnetization and achieve higher PM utilization. Moreover, the field weakening capability is investigated and improved by regulating armature excitation. A particular rotor type with flux intensification was found to possess higher PM utilization, lower demagnetization possibility with fairly high performance. Thus, suitable rotor configurations are recommended for certain applications.