bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Önlisans Programlarında İş Sağlığı ve Güvenliği Dersinin Farkındalık Üzerindeki Etkisi; İstanbul Aydın Üniversitesi Örneği
Authors: ALTUNTAŞ Şahin , CAN Emine , ÖZTÜRK Erhan , TARAKÇI Emin
Published: December 2021

Bu çalışma, İstanbul Aydın Üniversitesi Anadolu Bil Meslek Yüksekokulunda öğrenim gören ön lisans öğrencilerinin öğrenim gördükleri programlarda İSG dersi alma ve almama durumlarına göre farkındalıklarının ve iş sağlığı ve güvenliği dersi almanın farkındalığa etkisinin belirlenmesi amacı ile yapılmıştır. Ayrıca katılımcıların demografik bilgileri ile farkındalıkları da karşılaştırılmıştır. Çalışma nicel araştırma yöntemi kullanılarak yapılmıştır. Araştırmanın evrenini İstanbul Aydın Üniversitesi Anadolu Bil Meslek Yüksekokulunda öğrenim gören öğrenciler oluşturmaktadır. Araştırmanın örneklemi 315 öğrenciden oluşmaktadır. Anket 14 ifadeden oluşmaktadır. Araştırmada elde edilen bulguların değerlendirilmesinde, istatistiksel analizler için SPSS(24) programı kullanılmıştır. Değişkenlerin normal dağılıp dağılmadığının kontrol edilmesi için Kolmogrov- Smirnov normallik testi uygulanmıştır. p değeri 0,00 < 0,05 olduğundan araştırmada parametrik olmayan istatistiksel testler kullanılmıştır. İki bağımsız gruba ait verilerin karşılaştırılmasında bağımsız gruplar t-testinin parametrik olmayan alternatifi olan Mann Whitney-U Testi; ikiden fazla bağımsız gruba ait verilerin karşılaştırılmasında da tek yönlü varyans analizinin parametrik olmayan alternatifi olan Kruskal Wallis Tek yönlü Varyans analizi uygulanmıştır. Yapılan analizler sonucunda cinsiyet, öğrenim gördükleri program ve iş sağlığı ve güvenliği dersi alma durumlarına göre katılımcıların İSG farkındalıkları arasında anlamlı bir ilişki bulunmuştur. Ayrıca İSG dersi alma durumunun toplam varyansa etkisi %69 olarak büyük bir etkiye sahip olduğu belirlenmiştir.
Yeraltı Kömür Madenlerinde Meydana Gelen Büyük Maden Kazaları
Authors: EROL İlknur , ÜRÜNVEREN Abdulkadir
Published: December 2021

Yeraltı kömür madenciliği iş güvenliği açısından çok tehlikeli olup büyük kazalara neden olabilmektedir. Bu çalışmada geçmişten günümüze dünyada yeraltı kömür madenlerinde meydana gelen büyük maden kazaları nedenleri ile birlikte incelenmiştir. Türkiye’de 1983-2014 yılları arasında yeraltı kömür madenlerinde meydana gelen 19 faciada toplam 944 madenci hayatını kaybetmiş ve faciaların %78,95’i grizu patlamasından kaynaklandığı kayda geçmiştir. Türkiye’de yeraltı kömür madenlerinde 1983-2014 yılları arasında meydana gelen büyük iş kazalarındaki can kayıplarının %63’ü, gaz patlamasından kaynaklanmıştır. Amerika ve Çin, dünyanın en büyük kömür üreten ülkelerindendir. Bu sebeple, Amerika ve Çin’de yeraltı kömür madenlerinde meydana gelen büyük kazalar da analiz edilmiştir. Amerika’da 1839-2006 yılları meydana gelen 623 faciada toplam 13883 madenci hayatını kaybetmiş, faciaların %81,1’inin grizu patlamasından, %0,3’ünün kömür tozu patlamasından dolayı meydana gelmiştir. Çin’de 1942-2016 yılları arasında meydana gelen 189 faciada toplam 13075 kişi hayatını kaybetmiş ve faciaların %51,85’i grizu patlamasından, %16,40’ı grizu ve kömür tozu patlamasından, %6,88’i kömür tozu patlamasından kaynaklanmıştır. Çalışmada yeraltı kömür madenlerinde meydana gelen büyük felaketleri kontrol altında tutmak için alınması gerekli önlemlere de değinilmiştir.
PELATIHAN PENINGKATAN DAYA TRANSFER PENGETAHUAN MELALUI LITERASI KOMPUTER PADA PESANTREN EL JASMEEN DI KEL. BANJARARUM KEC. SINGOSARI KAB. MALANG
Authors: Sonhaji Sonhaji , Andiani Lidia , Syadeli Mohammad , Muslichah Muslichah , Prayoga Uke , Kusnanto Anang Amir , Sunarto Sunarto , Sugiono Djoko , Ratnasari Siwi Dyah
Published: December 2021

This article aims to show that educators' transfer power to students can be increased through educators' computer literacy. The development of science and technology has gained momentum by discovering and developing the internet and its supporting facilities. The development commonly known as information and communication technology provides effectiveness for life activities, especially in education. Due to an increase in the use of ICT in education and educational institutions, computer literacy is a must for educators and education personnel to carry out their duties. This article seeks to reveal the increase in the transfer of educators' knowledge and the effectiveness of the teaching staff's duties from community service activities in Islamic boarding schools. The community service activities that have been carried out to the educators and education personnel show an increase in the capacity of teaching materials provided to students and the capacity for student’s acceptance. Besides, the increase in computer literacy promotes effectiveness and easiness for the educators in fulfilling the tasks as part of their responsibility.
ESTILOS DE LIDERANÇA APLICADOS AO SEGMENTO DO CAFÉ: UM EXEMPLO NO SUL DE MINAS/BRASIL
Authors: Barbosa Baldoni Otavio , Messias Moreira Alessandro , Maria Querido de Oliveira Chamon Edna
Published: December 2021

Este trabalho analisa os estilos de liderança entre os produtores de café do Município de Boa Esperança – MG. Tal abordagem se justifica, visto que, esse produto tem uma grande representatividade em Minas Gerais, sendo o estado brasileiro com o maior número de lavouras de café (CONAB, 2019), em âmbito estadual, o sul do estado destaca-se por ter um grande volume de lavouras de café. O município de Boa Esperança foi escolhido, pois ocupa o terceiro lugar do estado no ranking de produção. O objetivo é identificar os estilos de liderança dos produtores de café, visto que a liderança se faz presente em todas as organizações nas quais o sujeito se insere. Este trabalho teve abordagem qualitativa e utilizou de entrevistas para a coleta de dados. O tratamento e análises dos dados foram realizados com o auxílio do software Iramuteq e o Excel para elaboração dos gráficos. O presente demonstrou que existe uma forte presença dos estilos de liderança transformacional e transacional entre os produtores entrevistados, cada hora um estilo se sobressaindo, dependendo do contexto em que o líder está inserido.
Human Lung Mast Cells Impair Corticosteroid Responsiveness in Human Airway Smooth Muscle Cells
Authors: Alzahrani Abdulrahman , Hakeem Jameel , Biddle Michael , Alhadian Fahad , Hussain Aamir , Khalfaoui Latifa , Roach Katy M. , Tliba Omar , Bradding Peter , Amrani Yassine
Published: December 2021

The mechanisms underlying corticosteroid insensitivity in severe asthma have not been elucidated although some indirect clinical evidence points toward a role of mast cells. Here, we tested the hypothesis that mast cells can drive corticosteroid insensitivity in airway smooth muscle cells, a key player in asthma pathogenesis. Conditioned media from resting or FcεR1-activated human lung mast cells were incubated with serum-deprived ASM cells (1:4 dilution, 24 h) to determine their impact on the anti-inflammatory action of fluticasone on ASM cell chemokine expression induced by TNFα (10 ng/ml). Conditioned media from FcεR1-activated mast cells (but not that from non-activated mast cells or control media) significantly reduced the ability of 100 nM fluticasone to suppress ASM TNFα-dependent CCL5 and CXCL10 production at both mRNA and protein levels. In contrast, fluticasone inhibition of CXCL-8 production by TNFα was still preserved in the presence of activated mast cell conditioned media. Transcriptomic analysis validated by individual qPCR assays revealed that activated mast cell conditioned media dramatically reduced the number of anti-inflammatory genes induced by fluticasone in ASM cells. Our study demonstrates for the first time that conditioned media from FcεR1-activated mast cells blunt the anti-inflammatory action of corticosteroids in ASM cells by altering their transactivation properties. Because infiltration of mast cells within the ASM bundles is a defining feature of asthma, mast cell-derived mediators may contribute to the glucocorticoid insensitivity present in severe asthma.
Sound Scattering Layers Within and Beyond the Seychelles-Chagos Thermocline Ridge in the Southwest Indian Ocean
Authors: Kang Myounghee , Kang Jung-Hoon , Kim Minju , Nam SungHyun , Choi Yeon , Kang Dong-Jin
Published: December 2021

In global oceans, ubiquitous and persistent sound scattering layers (SL) are frequently detected with echosounders. The southwest Indian Ocean has a unique feature, a region of significant upwelling known as the Seychelles-Chagos Thermocline Ridge (SCTR), which affects sea surface temperature and marine ecosystems. Despite their importance, sound SL within and beyond the SCTR are poorly understood. This study aimed to compare the characteristics of the sound SL within and beyond the SCTR in connection with environmental properties, and dominant zooplankton. To this end, the region north of the 12°S latitude in the survey area was defined as SCTR, and the region south of 12°S was defined as non-SCTR. The results indicated contrasting oceanographic properties based on the depth layers between SCTR and non-SCTR regions. Distribution dynamics of the sound SL differed between the two regions. In particular, the diel vertical migration pattern, acoustic scattering values, metrics, and positional properties of acoustic scatterers showed two distinct features. In addition, the density of zooplankton sampled was higher in SCTR than in the non-SCTR region. This is the first study to present bioacoustic and hydrographic water properties within and beyond the SCTR in the southwest Indian Ocean.
Design and Analysis of a Novel Composited Electromagnetic Linear Actuator
Authors: Fan Xinyu , Yin Jie , Lu Qinfen
Published: December 2021

Electromagnetic linear actuators, as key executive components, have a vital impact on the performance of fully flexible variable valve trains. Considering that the conventional moving coil electromagnetic linear actuator (MCELA) has the disadvantages of low force density and a lack of end-passive self-holding ability, a novel composited electromagnetic linear actuator (CELA) is proposed by combining the performance advantages of MCELA and moving iron electromagnetic linear actuator (MIELA) in this work. Firstly, the structure and magnetic circuit design scheme of the proposed actuator are introduced and the finite element simulation model is established. The magnetic field distribution and force characteristics of the actuators are assessed by finite element simulation. Secondly, the construction of the prototype of the actuator is outlined, based on which the feasibility of the design scheme and the steady-state performance of the actuator are verified. Finally, the coordinated control strategy is proposed to realize the multi motion coordination control of the actuator. The research results show that the maximum starting force of the CELA with the end-passive self-holding ability is 574.92 N while the holding force can approach 229.25 N. Moreover, the CELA is proven to have excellent dynamic characteristics and control precision under different motion modes and to have an improved adaptability to the complex working conditions of internal combustion engines.
A Novel Performance Adaptation and Diagnostic Method for Aero-Engines Based on the Aerothermodynamic Inverse Model
Authors: Lu Sangwei , Zhou Wenxiang , Huang Jinquan , Lu Feng , Chen Zhongguang
Published: December 2021

Aero-engines are faced with severe challenges of availability and reliability in the increasing operation, and traditional gas path filtering diagnostic methods have limitations restricted by various factors such as strong nonlinearity of the system and lack of critical sensor information. A method based on the aerothermodynamic inverse model (AIM) is proposed to improve the adaptation accuracy and fault diagnostic dynamic estimation response speed in this paper. Thermodynamic mechanisms are utilized to develop AIM, and scaling factors are designed to be calculated iteratively in the presence of measurement correction. In addition, the proposed method is implemented in combination with compensation of the nonlinear filter for real-time estimation of health parameters under the hypothesis of estimated dimensionality reduction. Simulations involved experimental datasets revealed that the maximum average simulated error decreased from 13.73% to 0.46% through adaptation. It was also shown that the dynamic estimated convergence time of the improved diagnostic method reached 2.183 s decrease averagely without divergence compared to the traditional diagnostic method. This paper demonstrates the proposed method has the capacity to generalize aero-engine adaptation approaches and to achieve unbiased estimation with fast convergence in performance diagnostic techniques.
Bactrocera oleae (Rossi) (Diptera: Tephritidae) Response to Different Blends of Olive Fruit Fly-Associated Yeast Volatile Compounds as Attractants
Authors: Bego Ana , Burul Filipa , Popović Marijana , Jukić Špika Maja , Veršić Bratinčević Maja , Pošćić Filip , Vitanović Elda
Published: December 2021

The olive fruit fly, Bactrocera oleae (Rossi) is economically the most important olive pest, causing yield losses in all olive growing areas where is detected. Considering that EU requires the reduction of pesticide use by up to 100% by 2050, more effective non-pesticide lures for B. oleae monitoring and/or controlling are needed. This research was aimed at investigating the attractiveness of different blends of olive fruit fly-associated yeast volatiles toward B. oleae. Three blends of olive fruit fly-associated yeast volatiles: isoamyl alcohol and 2-phenethyl alcohol; isoamyl alcohol, 2-phenethyl alcohol and 2-phenethyl acetate; and isoamyl alcohol, 2-phenethyl acetate and isobutyl acetate were selected and tested on yellow sticky traps for attraction of B. oleae in olive orchard. Results showed that traps containing all tested blends of olive fruit fly-associated yeast volatile compounds, in total, were significantly more attractive to B. oleae and were not significantly attractive to green lacewings, compared to the control. Among them, the most promising was the one containing the blend of isoamyl alcohol, 2-phenethyl acetate and isobutyl acetate because its attractiveness was constantly significant during investigation compared to the others. This blend in the future could lead us to the discovery of a new attractant for the monitoring and/or controlling of B. oleae.
Collection Guidelines to Achieve a Viable Caper Commercial Propagation
Authors: Foschi María Laura , Juan Mariano , Pascual Bernardo , Pascual-Seva Nuria
Published: December 2021

The caper (Capparis spinosa L.) is a perennial plant characteristic of the Mediterranean region that presents difficulties in its propagation, both vegetatively and by seeds. The main aim of this study is to provide collection guidelines to achieve a viable caper commercial propagation, for which three experiments were undertaken to determine the viability and germination in different seed lots. In the first experiment, commercial and own produced seeds (collected with the same criteria as commercial seeds) were analysed; the commercial seeds presented the lowest viability and germination. The second experiment analysed the effect of the fruit (from which the seeds were extracted) at its maturation stage, obtaining the lowest seed viability and germination in the seeds extracted from the dry fruits. In the third experiment, seed viability and germination were analysed immediately after collection, following a short drying period (3 d), and after six storage months. Viability and germination decreased with seed storage. Overall, it can be stated that caper seeds are sensitive to desiccation; consequently, a general rule of thumb is to collect the fruits once a week, to extract the seeds, and to plant them immediately for germination.
Prevalence and Antimicrobial Resistance of Paeniclostridium sordellii in Hospital Settings
Authors: Zerrouki Hanane , Rebiahi Sid-Ahmed , Elhabiri Yamina , Fatmi Ahlam , Baron Sophie Alexandra , Pagnier Isabelle , Diene Seydina M. , Rolain Jean-Marc
Published: December 2021

(1) Background: The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of clostridia strains in a hospital environment in Algeria and to evaluate their antimicrobial susceptibility to antibiotics and biocides. (2) Methods: Five hundred surface samples were collected from surfaces in the intensive care unit and surgical wards in the University Hospital of Tlemcen, Algeria. Bacterial identification was carried out using MALDI-TOF-MS, and then the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of various antimicrobial agents were determined by the E-test method. P. sordellii toxins were searched by enzymatic and PCR assays. Seven products intended for daily disinfection in the hospitals were tested against Clostridium spp. spore collections. (3) Results: Among 100 isolates, 90 P. sordellii were identified, and all strains were devoid of lethal and hemorrhagic toxin genes. Beta-lactam, linezolid, vancomycin, tigecycline, rifampicin, and chloramphenicol all proved effective against isolated strains. Among all strains tested, the spores of P. sordellii exhibited remarkable resistance to the tested biocides compared to other Clostridium species. The (chlorine-based 0.6%, 30 min), (glutaraldehyde solution 2.5%, 30 min), and (hydrogen peroxide/peracetic acid 3%, 15 min) products achieved the required reduction in spores. (4) Conclusions: Our hospital’s current cleaning and disinfection methods need to be optimized to effectively remove spores from caregivers’ hands, equipment, and surfaces.
Lack of Type I Interferon Signaling Ameliorates Respiratory Syncytial Virus-Induced Lung Inflammation and Restores Antioxidant Defenses
Authors: Ansar Maria , Qu Yue , Ivanciuc Teodora , Garofalo Roberto P. , Casola Antonella
Published: December 2021

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection in mouse and human lung is associated with pathogenic inflammation and oxidative injury. RSV impairs antioxidant responses by increasing the degradation of transcription factor NF-E2-related factor 2 (NRF2), which controls the expression of several antioxidant enzymes (AOEs). In addition to its protective effects, type I IFNs have been increasingly recognized as important mediators of host pathogenic responses during acute respiratory viral infections. We used a mouse model of RSV infection to investigate the effect of lack of type I interferon (IFN) receptor on viral-mediated clinical disease, airway inflammation, NRF2 expression, and antioxidant defenses. In the absence of type I IFN signaling, RSV-infected mice showed significantly less body weight loss and airway obstruction, as well as a significant reduction in cytokine and chemokine secretion and airway inflammation. Lack of type I IFN receptor was associated with greatly reduced virus-induced promyelocytic leukemia lung protein expression, which we showed to be necessary for virus-induced NRF2 degradation in a cell model of infection, resulting in restoration of NRF2 levels, AOE expression, and airway antioxidant capacity. Our data support the concept that modulation of type I IFN production and/or signaling could represent an important therapeutic strategy to ameliorate severity of RSV-induced lung disease.
Towards Functional Insect Feeds: Agri-Food By-Products Enriched with Post-Distillation Residues of Medicinal Aromatic Plants in Tenebrio molitor (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) Breeding
Authors: Andreadis Stefanos S. , Panteli Nikolas , Mastoraki Maria , Rizou Eleftheria , Stefanou Vassilia , Tzentilasvili Sofia , Sarrou Eirini , Chatzifotis Stavros , Krigas Nikos , Antonopoulou Efthimia
Published: December 2021

Sustainability, circular economy and alternative production systems are urgent imperatives for humanity and animal husbandry. Unless wasted, agri-food by-products can offer a promising source of high value. We evaluated the effect of rice bran (RB), corncob (CC), potato peels (PP), solid biogas residues (BR), and olive-oil processing residuals (OR), as alternative substrates to wheat bran (WB as control), on the growth and nutritional value of Tenebrio molitor during its breeding for animal feeds and/or human consumption. Innovation-wise, we further investigated the substrate supplementation (0, 10, 20%) with post-distillation residues of Mediterranean aromatic-medicinal plants (MAPs: lavender, Greek oregano, rosemary, olive; 1:1:1:1 ratio). Tenebrio molitor larvae (TML) were reared in all the studied substrates, and TML and diets’ proximate and fatty acid compositions as well as total phenol and flavonoid content and antioxidant potential were assessed using standard procedures. After statistical analysis of correlations, we observed that CC promoted oviposition and progeny survival; larval weight and dry matter were positively affected mainly by dietary energy and fat content; number of TML and/or larval weight increased using 10% MAPs inclusion in WB, RB and OR or RB, OR, BR and PP, respectively, which did not affect protein content; TML fatty acid composition decreased the content of saturated ones and increased that of mono-unsaturated ones; MAPs residues had an apparent favorable impact on total phenolic content and antioxidant activity of each substrate, with RB displaying the highest capacity and content. These findings indicate that alternative substrates can be exploited and their enrichment with natural phenolics is able to influence T. molitor growth, offering highly beneficial and nutritional value.
Sustained Energy Deficit Following Perinatal Asphyxia: A Shift towards the Fructose-2,6-bisphosphatase (TIGAR)-Dependent Pentose Phosphate Pathway and Postnatal Development
Authors: Lespay-Rebolledo Carolyne , Tapia-Bustos Andrea , Perez-Lobos Ronald , Vio Valentina , Casanova-Ortiz Emmanuel , Farfan-Troncoso Nancy , Zamorano-Cataldo Marta , Redel-Villarroel Martina , Ezquer Fernando , Quintanilla Maria Elena , Israel Yedy , Morales Paola , Herrera-Marschitz Mario
Published: December 2021

Labor and delivery entail a complex and sequential metabolic and physiologic cascade, culminating in most circumstances in successful childbirth, although delivery can be a risky episode if oxygen supply is interrupted, resulting in perinatal asphyxia (PA). PA causes an energy failure, leading to cell dysfunction and death if re-oxygenation is not promptly restored. PA is associated with long-term effects, challenging the ability of the brain to cope with stressors occurring along with life. We review here relevant targets responsible for metabolic cascades linked to neurodevelopmental impairments, that we have identified with a model of global PA in rats. Severe PA induces a sustained effect on redox homeostasis, increasing oxidative stress, decreasing metabolic and tissue antioxidant capacity in vulnerable brain regions, which remains weeks after the insult. Catalase activity is decreased in mesencephalon and hippocampus from PA-exposed (AS), compared to control neonates (CS), in parallel with increased cleaved caspase-3 levels, associated with decreased glutathione reductase and glutathione peroxidase activity, a shift towards the TIGAR-dependent pentose phosphate pathway, and delayed calpain-dependent cell death. The brain damage continues long after the re-oxygenation period, extending for weeks after PA, affecting neurons and glial cells, including myelination in grey and white matter. The resulting vulnerability was investigated with organotypic cultures built from AS and CS rat newborns, showing that substantia nigra TH-dopamine-positive cells from AS were more vulnerable to 1 mM of H2O2 than those from CS animals. Several therapeutic strategies are discussed, including hypothermia; N-acetylcysteine; memantine; nicotinamide, and intranasally administered mesenchymal stem cell secretomes, promising clinical translation.
Human Lysyl Oxidase Over-Expression Enhances Baseline Cardiac Oxidative Stress but Does Not Aggravate ROS Generation or Infarct Size Following Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion
Authors: Valls-Lacalle Laura , Puertas-Umbert Lídia , Varona Saray , Martínez-González José , Rodríguez Cristina , Rodríguez-Sinovas Antonio
Published: December 2021

Lysyl oxidase (LOX) is an enzyme critically involved in collagen maturation, whose activity releases H2O2 as a by-product. Previous studies demonstrated that LOX over-expression enhances reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and exacerbates cardiac remodeling induced by pressure overload. However, whether LOX influences acute myocardial infarction and post-infarct left ventricular remodeling and the contribution of LOX to myocardial oxidative stress following ischemia-reperfusion have not been analyzed. Isolated hearts from transgenic mice over-expressing human LOX in the heart (TgLOX) and wild-type (WT) littermates were subjected to global ischemia and reperfusion. Although under basal conditions LOX transgenesis is associated with higher cardiac superoxide levels than WT mice, no differences in ROS production were detected in ischemic hearts and a comparable acute ischemia-reperfusion injury was observed (infarct size: 56.24 ± 9.44 vs. 48.63 ± 2.99% of cardiac weight in WT and TgLOX, respectively). Further, similar changes in cardiac dimensions and function were observed in TgLOX and WT mice 28 days after myocardial infarction induced by transient left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery occlusion, and no differences in scar area were detected (20.29 ± 3.10 vs. 21.83 ± 2.83% of left ventricle). Our data evidence that, although LOX transgenesis induces baseline myocardial oxidative stress, neither ROS production, infarct size, nor post-infarction cardiac remodeling were exacerbated following myocardial ischemia-reperfusion.
“Obesity and Insulin Resistance” Is the Component of the Metabolic Syndrome Most Strongly Associated with Oxidative Stress
Authors: Jakubiak Grzegorz K. , Osadnik Kamila , Lejawa Mateusz , Osadnik Tadeusz , Goławski Marcin , Lewandowski Piotr , Pawlas Natalia
Published: December 2021

Metabolic syndrome (MS) is not a homogeneous entity, but this term refers to the coexistence of factors that increase the risk for the development of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. There are different versions of the criteria for the diagnosis of MS, which makes the population of patients diagnosed with MS heterogeneous. Research to date shows that MS is associated with oxidative stress (OS), but it is unclear which MS component is most strongly associated with OS. The purpose of the study was to investigate the relationship between the parameters of OS and the presence of individual elements of MS in young adults, as well as to identify the components of MS by means of principal components analysis (PCA) and to investigate how the parameters of OS correlate with the presence of individual components. The study included 724 young adults with or without a family history of coronary heart disease (population of the MAGNETIC study). Blood samples were taken from the participants of the study to determine peripheral blood counts, biochemical parameters, and selected parameters of OS. In addition, blood pressure and anthropometric parameters were measured. In subjects with MS, significantly lower activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), copper- and zinc-containing SOD (CuZnSOD), and manganese-containing SOD (MnSOD) were found, along with significantly higher total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and significantly lower concentration of thiol groups per gram of protein (PSH). We identified three components of MS by means of PCA: “Obesity and insulin resistance”, “Dyslipidemia”, and “Blood pressure”, and showed the component “Obesity and insulin resistance” to have the strongest relationship with OS. In conclusion, we documented significant differences in some parameters of OS between young adults with and without MS. We showed that “Obesity and insulin resistance” is the most important component of MS in terms of relationship with OS.
Acacia catechu Willd. Extract Protects Neuronal Cells from Oxidative Stress-Induced Damage
Authors: Chiaino Elda , Stella Roberto , Peggion Caterina , Micucci Matteo , Budriesi Roberta , Mattioli Laura Beatrice , Marzetti Carla , Pessina Federica , Valoti Massimo , Frosini Maria
Published: December 2021

Oxidative stress (OS) and the resulting reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and inflammation play a pivotal role in the neuronal loss occurring during the onset of neurodegenerative diseases. Therefore, promising future drugs that would prevent or slow down the progression of neurodegeneration should possess potent radical-scavenging activity. Acacia catechu Willd. heartwood extract (AC), already characterized for its high catechin content, is endowed with antioxidant properties. The aim of the present study was to assess AC neuroprotection in both human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells and rat brain slices treated with hydrogen peroxide. In SH-SY5Y cells, AC prevented a decrease in viability, as well as an increase in sub-diploid-, DAPI positive cells, reduced ROS formation, and recovered the mitochondrial potential and caspase-3 activation. AC related neuroprotective effects also occurred in rat brain slices as a reversal prevention in the expression of the main proteins involved in apoptosis and signalling pathways related to calcium homeostasis following OS-mediated injury. Additionally, unbiased quantitative mass spectrometry allowed for assessing that AC partially prevented the hydrogen peroxide-induced altered proteome, including proteins belonging to the synaptic vesicle fusion apparatus. In conclusion, the present results suggest the possibility of AC as a nutraceutical useful in preventing neurodegenerative diseases.
Resveratrol Butyrate Ester Protects Adenine-Treated Rats against Hypertension and Kidney Disease by Regulating the Gut–Kidney Axis
Authors: Hsu Chien-Ning , Hou Chih-Yao , Chang Chi-I , Tain You-Lin
Published: December 2021

Despite recent advances in pharma-nutritional management, chronic kidney disease (CKD) remains an increasingly prevalent disorder. Resveratrol, a pleiotropic phytochemical, has been found to reduce the risk for several chronic diseases. Considering the low bioavailability of resveratrol, we recently synthesized resveratrol butyrate ester (RBE) via the esterification of resveratrol with butyrate. The aim of this study was to examine the effectiveness of RBE as regards protection from hypertension and kidney damage and explore the underlying mechanisms using a young rat adenine-induced CKD model. Three-week-old male Sprague Dawley rats received regular or 0.5% adenine chow for three weeks. Three groups of adenine-fed CKD rats (N = 8/group) received resveratrol (50 mg/L), or a low dose (25 mg/L) or high dose (50 mg/L) of RBE in drinking water from week 6 to week 12. As compared with the controls, adenine-treated rats had markedly increased creatinine levels and blood pressure, which was associated with renal hypertrophy and decreased creatinine clearance. Treatment with resveratrol or a low or high dose of RBE, similarly protected adenine-fed rats against hypertension and kidney damage. CKD-induced hypertension is associated with an altered gut microbiota profile, dysregulated renal short chain fatty acid (SCFA) receptor expression, activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) signaling pathway, and reduced nitric oxide bioavailability. We found gut microbiota compositions were shaped differentially by resveratrol and RBE treatment in adenine-treated CKD rats. The beneficial effect of high-dose RBE was associated with reduced renal expression of SCFA G protein-coupled receptor 41 (GPR41) and olfactory receptor 78 (Olfr78), antagonizing the AhR signaling pathway, and increased abundance of beneficial bacteria such as genera Akkermansia, Blautia, and Enterococcus. Our study provided the first evidence documenting RBE as a novel phytochemical supplement targeting the gut–kidney axis to protect against adenine-induced kidney damage and hypertension.
Fuel Flowrate Control for Aeroengine and Fuel Thermal Management for Airborne System of Aircraft—An Overview
Authors: Li Dong , Hang Jie , Li Yunhua , Dong Sujun
Published: December 2021

Fuel flowrate control system and fuel thermal management are very important for aeroengine and the overall aircraft, and it has been researched for several decades. This survey paper makes a comprehensive and systematic overview on the exiting fuel flowrate regulation methods, thermal load of fuel metering units, fuel-based thermal management, and the fuel tank’s thermal management topology network with drain and recirculation. This paper firstly reviews the mechanism, technical advantages, and technical challenges of the fuel metering unit with flowrate control valve and constant pressure difference valve compensator, flowrate control valve and variable displacement pump-based pressure difference compensator, and motor-based flowrate regulation. Then, the technical characteristics of above fuel flowrate control methods related to thermal management are discussed and compared. Meanwhile, the behaviors of recirculated fuel flow within single tank system and dual tank system are explored. Thirdly, the paper discusses the future directions of fuel flowrate control and thermal management. The survey is significant to the fuel flowrate control and fuel thermal management of the aircraft.
Detecting Small Anatomical Structures in 3D Knee MRI Segmentation by Fully Convolutional Networks
Authors: Sun Mengtao , Lu Li , Hameed Ibrahim A. , Kulseng Carl Petter Skaar , Gjesdal Kjell-Inge
Published: December 2021

Accurately identifying the pixels of small organs or lesions from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has a critical impact on clinical diagnosis. U-net is the most well-known and commonly used neural network for image segmentation. However, the small anatomical structures in medical images cannot be well recognised by U-net. This paper explores the performance of the U-net architectures in knee MRI segmentation to find a relative structure that can obtain high accuracies for both small and large anatomical structures. To maximise the utilities of U-net architecture, we apply three types of components, residual blocks, squeeze-and-excitation (SE) blocks, and dense blocks, to construct four variants of U-net, namely U-net variants. Among these variants, our experiments show that SE blocks can improve the segmentation accuracies of small labels. We adopt DeepLabv3plus architecture for 3D medical image segmentation by equipping SE blocks based on this discovery. The experimental results show that U-net with SE block achieves higher accuracy in parts of small anatomical structures. In contrast, DeepLabv3plus with SE block performs better on the average dice coefficient of small and large labels.
Numerical Simulation of Rockfill Materials Based on Fractal Theory
Authors: Han Hongxing , Ma Yun , He Wei , Yang Weifang , Fu Xudong
Published: December 2021

With the use of the particle flow code in two dimensions, a fractal model is established with the number of particles of different particle fractions used as the statistics to study the fractal characteristics of particle size distribution. Numerically simulated specimens obtained by four scale methods are subjected to the relative density test and the biaxial compression test to explore the influences of fractal dimension D on the macroscopic and mesomechanical properties of specimens, as well as to study the relationship between fractal dimension D and different mechanical performance indexes. Results show that the particle size distribution of each of the four groups after scale exhibits fractal characteristics, with the fractal dimension D ranging from 1.27 to 2.03. The number of fine particles in the specimen increases with the fractal dimension D, the particle aggregates become more compact, the macroscopic mechanical properties of the specimens are improved, and a linear relationship exists between the fractal dimension D and different mechanical performance indexes. A large fractal dimension D corresponds to a great mesoparticle coordination number.
Trapa japonica Flerov Extract Prevents Obesity by Regulating Adipogenesis and Lipolysis in Differentiated 3T3-L1 Cells
Authors: Park Soo-Jeung , Lee Minhee , Kim Ki-Young , Shin Su , Choi Min-Woo , Hong Eun-Jin , Lee Jeongmin
Published: December 2021

Our study investigated that the anti-obesity effect of the Trapa japonica Flerov extract (TJ) in differentiated 3T3-L1 adipocytes. To this end, 3T3-L1 cells were treated with TJ during their differentiation period. On the last day of the cell culture, we tested intracellular cAMP, FA, glycerol release, TG, and performed Oil Red O staining and Western blot assays. On the part of adipogenesis, lipogenesis, and lipolysis mechanism, TJ increased the cAMP (maximum 125.4%) levels and glycerol release (maximum four times) and decreased FA (maximum 35.1%) and TG (maximum 35.7%) levels. Furthermore, the protein expression levels of each mechanism-related factor were regulated in a dose-dependent manner. These results indicate that TJ reduced lipid accumulation by max 53.6% and 47.9%, respectively, in adipogenesis and lipolysis mechanisms. We expect this effect of TJ to be due to its component, ellagic acid. In conclusion, we found that TJ inhibits TG synthesis during adipogenesis and lipogenesis, promotes lipolysis, and thus, indicating its potential as a functional food for obesity prevention.
Bone Damage during Dental Implant Insertion: A Pilot Study Combining Strain Gauge and Histologic Analysis
Authors: Klär Virgilia , Karl Matthias , Grobecker-Karl Tanja
Published: December 2021

Besides alveolar bone quality, the drilling protocol applied in conjunction with the design of an implant are the major determinants of primary implant stability. Surgical trauma and bone compression resulting from implant insertion may constitute one cause for marginal bone resorption. Inserting two current bone-level implant designs (Astra; Straumann; n = 5) in bovine ribs, primary stability, strain development on the buccal bone plate and histologic signs of bone damage were recorded. Besides comparing the implant designs (Welch t-tests), all measurement parameters were checked for potential correlations (Pearson product moment correlation coefficients) with the level of significance set at α = 0.05. Considerable numbers of crack formation and plastic deformation of bone were observed after implant insertion. Straumann implants showed slightly greater values for insertion torque (p = 0.772), strain development (p = 0.893) and implant stability (p = 0.642). Significantly greater bone to implant contact (cortical p = 0.014; trabecular p = 0.016) was observed in Straumann implants, while Astra implants caused a significantly greater number of microcracks in cortical bone (p = 0.020). In Straumann implants, insertion torque correlated with bone to implant contact in the cortical area (p = 0.029) and the number of macrocracks in trabecular bone correlated with bone to implant contact (p = 0.029). In Astra implants, insertion torque and bone to implant contact in the trabecular area correlated (p = 0.007) as well as the number of macrocracks in trabecular bone and implant stability (p = 0.016). Additionally, in the area of cortical bone, the number of macrocracks correlated with bone to implant contact (p = 0.019). Implant placement results in bone damage of varying magnitude, which is governed by the drill protocol, implant macrodesign and bone quality.
Designing a Reliable UAV Architecture Operating in a Real Environment
Authors: Gromada Krzysztof Andrzej , Stecz Wojciech Marcin
Published: December 2021

The article presents a method of designing a selected unmanned aerial platform flight scenario based on the principles of designing a reliable (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) UAV architecture operating in an environment in which other platforms operate. The models and results presented relate to the medium-range aerial platform, subject to certification under the principles set out in aviation regulations. These platforms are subject to the certification process requirements, but their restrictions are not as restrictive as in the case of manned platforms. Issues related to modeling scenarios implemented by the platform in flight are discussed. The article describes the importance of Functional Hazard Analysis (FHA) and Fault Trees Analysis (FTA) of elements included in the hardware and software architecture of the system. The models in Unified Modeling Language (UML) used by the authors in the project are described, supporting the design of a reliable architecture of flying platforms. Examples of the transformations from user requirements modeled in the form of Use Cases to platform operation models based on State Machines and then to the final UAV operation algorithms are shown. Principles of designing system test plans and designing individual test cases to verify the system’s operation in emergencies in flight are discussed. Methods of integrating flight simulators with elements of the air platform in the form of Software-in-the-Loop (SIL) models based on selected algorithms for avoiding dangerous situations have been described. The presented results are based on a practical example of an algorithm for detecting an air collision situation of two platforms.
General Spatial Pattern and Meta-Pattern Model for Problems That Need Analytical Approach in Complex Spatial Systems
Authors: Germanaite Indraja E. , Zaleckis Kestutis , Butleris Rimantas , Lopata Audrius
Published: December 2021

Spatial Pattern (SP) Description, Identification, and Application Methodology (SPDIAM) was developed for describing and detecting spatial economic, social, and environmental phenomena and providing basic information technology (IT) artefacts that can be used for the spatial analysis development using GIS technologies. SPDIAM allows urban planning and design practitioners to describe SP in a computerized manner, identify SP automatically, and apply them in the spatial planning and design domain. In this article, we explain the general SP and spatial meta-pattern model, used in SPDIAM, that is based on the theory of Complex Spatial System (CSS), spatial configuration, and spatial capital concepts and is presented using UML diagrams as standard used for visualization of project models from structure and behavior points of views. The practical experiment of describing and identifying 6 basic spatial meta-pattern values is conducted using the new algorithm that combines Space Syntax method, Visibility Graph Analysis (VGA), and VGA measures to create a computer model of space and to quantify its configuration, which can then be used to handle geographic and geometric data associated with attribute information, to perform spatial, mathematical, and statistical calculations and to visualize SP. The results of the experiment show that the model and the algorithm are appropriate for spatial meta-patterns identification, and the best results can be achieved using VGA measure Isovist Compactness. In the future, general SP and the spatial meta-pattern model can be used to describe and identify complex SP and to solve problems in CSS with the help of the spatial meta-pattern values described in this article.
Using a Human Circulation Mathematical Model to Simulate the Effects of Hemodialysis and Therapeutic Hypothermia
Authors: Joseph Jermiah J. , Hunter Timothy J. , Sun Clara , Goldman Daniel , Kharche Sanjay R. , McIntyre Christopher W.
Published: December 2021

Background: We developed a hemodynamic mathematical model of human circulation coupled to a virtual hemodialyzer. The model was used to explore mechanisms underlying our clinical observations involving hemodialysis. Methods: The model consists of whole body human circulation, baroreflex feedback control, and a hemodialyzer. Four model populations encompassing baseline, dialysed, therapeutic hypothermia treated, and simultaneous dialysed with hypothermia were generated. In all populations atrial fibrillation and renal failure as co-morbidities, and exercise as a treatment were simulated. Clinically relevant measurables were used to quantify the effects of each in silico experiment. Sensitivity analysis was used to uncover the most relevant parameters. Results: Relative to baseline, the modelled dialysis increased the population mean diastolic blood pressure by 5%, large vessel wall shear stress by 6%, and heart rate by 20%. Therapeutic hypothermia increased systolic blood pressure by 3%, reduced large vessel shear stress by 15%, and did not affect heart rate. Therapeutic hypothermia reduced wall shear stress by 15% in the aorta and 6% in the kidneys, suggesting a potential anti-inflammatory benefit. Therapeutic hypothermia reduced cardiac output under atrial fibrillation by 12% and under renal failure by 20%. Therapeutic hypothermia and exercise did not affect dialyser function, but increased water removal by approximately 40%. Conclusions: This study illuminates some mechanisms of the action of therapeutic hypothermia. It also suggests clinical measurables that may be used as surrogates to diagnose underlying diseases such as atrial fibrillation.
Roadmapping of Nanoelectronics for the New Electronics Industry
Authors: Gargini Paolo , Balestra Francis , Hayashi Yoshihiro
Published: December 2021

This paper is dedicated to a review of the international effort to map the future of nanoelectronics from materials to systems for the new electronics industry. The following sections are highlighted: the Roadmap structure with the international teams, the methodology and historical evolution, the various eras of scaling, the new ecosystems and computer industry, the evolving supply chain, the development of SoC and SiP, the advent of the Internet of Everything and the 5G communications, the dramatic increase of data centers, the power challenge, the technology fusion, heterogeneous and system integration, the emerging technologies, devices and computing architectures, and the main challenges for future applications.
Aroma Profiles of Dry-Hopped Ciders Produced with Citra, Galaxy, and Mosaic Hops
Authors: Bingman Matthew T. , Hinkley Josephine L. , Bradley Colin P. , Cole Callie A.
Published: December 2021

Cider quality and consumer acceptance are greatly influenced by its aroma. With the continued expansion of the craft cider industry, cider producers are employing techniques such as dry hopping to develop unique flavor profiles. Few studies, however, have explored the VOCs of dry-hopped cider. Herein, we monitor the development of VOCs from pressed apple juice, through fermentation and dry hopping by HS–SPME–GC–MS, to elucidate when and how aroma compounds arise in cider production. In all, 89 VOCs were detected, spanning eight classes of organic compounds. Racking events decreased ester concentrations by 10 ± 1%, but resting on the lees allowed these pleasant, fruity aromas to be reestablished. Dry hopping was conducted with three types of hops (Citra, Galaxy, and Mosaic). The varied development of terpenes and esters between hop varieties supports the use of this technique to diversify the aroma profiles of ciders. Herein, we report that both the variety of hops and the timing of key processing steps including racking and hop addition significantly alter the identity and concentration of aroma-important VOCs in dry-hopped cider.