bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High Damping Passive Launch Vibration Isolation System Using Superelastic SMA with Multilayered Viscous Lamina
Authors: Park Yeon-Hyeok , Kwon Seong-Cheol , Koo Kyung-Rae , Oh Hyun-Ung
Published: July 2021

Whole-spacecraft launch-vibration isolation systems are attractive for achieving the goal of better, faster, cheaper, and lighter small satellites by reducing the design-load and vibration-test specifications for on-board components. In this study, a three-axis passive launch-vibration isolation system, based on superelastic shape memory alloy (SMA) technology, was developed to significantly attenuate the dynamic launch loads transmitted to a small satellite. This provides a superior damping characteristic, achieved by superelastic SMA blades stiffened by multilayered thin plates with viscous lamina adhesive layers of acrylic tape. The basic characteristics of the proposed isolation system with various numbers of viscoelastic multilayers were obtained through a static load test. In addition, the effectiveness of the design was validated through a launch environment simulating sine and random vibration tests.
Improved Rice Technology Adoption: The Role of Spatially-Dependent Risk Preference
Authors: Ambali Omotuyole Isiaka , Areal Francisco Jose , Georgantzis Nikolaos
Published: July 2021

This study analyses farmers’ adoption of improved rice technology, taking into account farmers’ risk preferences; the unobserved spatial heterogeneity associated with farmers’ risk preferences; farmers’ household and farm characteristics; farm locations, farmers’ access to information, and their perceptions on the rice improved varieties (i.e., high yield varieties, HYV). The study used data obtained from field experiments and a survey conducted in 2016 in Nigeria. An instrumental-variable probit model was estimated to account for potential endogenous farmers’ risk preference in the adoption decision model. Results show that risk averse (risk avoidant) farmers are less likely to adopt HYV, with the spatial lags of farmers’ risk attitudes found to be a good instrument for spatially unobserved variables (e.g., environmental and climatic factors). We conclude that studies supporting policy action aiming at the diffusion of improved rice varieties need to collect information, if possible, on farmers’ risk attitudes, local environmental and climatic conditions (e.g., climatic, topographic, soil quality, pest incidence) in order to ease the design and evaluation of policy actions on the adoption of improved agricultural technology.
Influence of Various Forms of Foliar Application on Root Yield and Technological Quality of Sugar Beet
Authors: Artyszak Arkadiusz , Gozdowski Dariusz
Published: July 2021

The Green Deal adopted by the European Commission assumes a significant reduction in the use of pesticides and synthetic fertilizers. It is necessary to search for environmentally safe technologies that will prevent a reduction in crop yield. One of such methods, which was examined in the study, is the foliar application of silicon, which can have a positive effect on root yield and its quality. In the period 2017–2019, a field experiment was carried out in which the effectiveness of the application of various forms of silicon (orthosilicic acid, a mixture of orthosilicic and polysilicic acid and calcium silicate) in sugar beet cultivation was assessed. The applied treatments of foliar application increased the root yield by 10.7–11.7%, the biological sugar yield by 8.4–12% and the pure sugar yield by 7.2–11.8% as compared to the control treatment. The differences between the individual treatments in terms of these characteristics were insignificant. Their impacts on the technological quality of roots (content of sugar, α-amino nitrogen, potassium and sodium) were different.
Popularity in Social Networks. The Case of Argentine Beekeeping Production Entities
Authors: Andrieu Jimena , Fernández-Uclés Domingo , Mozas-Moral Adoración , Bernal-Jurado Enrique
Published: July 2021

The context of the COVID pandemic has accelerated the pace of the digitalization of society, especially of its business fabric. Among the various applications offered by the Internet, social networking platforms have been identified as powerful tools that organizations have at their disposal for the development of their online business activities. This is due to the closeness and trust generated by word-of-mouth communication. In this context, the aim of this article is to identify which organizational characteristics are directly related to popularity on social networks, measured by the number of followers on these accounts. In order to achieve this objective, the Argentinean beekeeping organizations have been taken as a case study and the fuzzy set Qualitative Comparative Analysis method has been used. The results obtained allow us to validate the different organizational factors which, beyond the use of Facebook itself, lead to better results for the organizations in their social network strategies. These factors include their cooperative nature, localization, environmental sensitivity and presence on other digital platforms.
Insecticidal Effect of Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles against Bactericera cockerelli Sulc. (Hemiptera: Triozidae) on Tomato Solanum lycopersicum
Authors: Gutiérrez-Ramírez José A. , Betancourt-Galindo Rebeca , Aguirre-Uribe Luis A. , Cerna-Chávez Ernesto , Sandoval-Rangel Alberto , Ángel Epifanio Castro-del , Chacón-Hernández Julio C. , García-López Josué I. , Hernández-Juárez Agustín
Published: July 2021

The use of nanoparticles (NPs) has generated an alternative pest control. The objective was to evaluate the insecticidal effect of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs), titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs), and their combination on Bactericera cockerelli (Hemiptera: Triozidae) second-stage nymphs under laboratory and greenhouse conditions in tomato. The laboratory research was carried out with the leaf immersion bioassay method under a complete randomized design, and in the greenhouse by direct plant spraying under a randomized block design; in both designs, a control without NPs was added. Mortality was recorded every 24 h for 4 days. Both NPs in the laboratory and greenhouse showed toxicity to B. cockerelli nymphs. Results in the laboratory showed that NPs significantly caused increased mortality of 88, 99, and 100% 96 h after treatment of ZnO NPs, TiO2 NPs, and their combinations, at 1000, 100, and 250 ppm, respectively. Direct spray of plants in the greenhouse showed low mortality with 27, 32, and 23% after 96 h of ZnO NPs, TiO2 NPs, and their combinations, at 3000, 500, and 250 ppm, respectively. These results on B. cockerelli control seem promising. Nanoparticles as insecticides are a novel strategy, however, further investigation is required in field tests to obtain suitable efficacy for use in a pest management system.
Institutionalizing Quality Declared Seed in Uganda
Authors: Mastenbroek Astrid , Otim Geoffrey , Ntare Bonny R.
Published: July 2021

Farmer-led seed enterprises can produce good quality seed and market it. However, for them to thrive, they need a conducive policy and regulatory framework that is inclusive and less stringent than existing regulatory frameworks. One way to provide a more enabling environment for farmer-led enterprises is through the Quality Declared Seed (QDS) production and marketing system. In Uganda, this seed class is specifically introduced for farmer-led enterprises to produce and market quality assured seed of crops and varieties not served by the private sector. The class is anchored in the Ugandan National Seed Policy and its seed regulations and its operationalization plan. We identified a combination of three strategies that enabled the QDS class to be incorporated into the National Seed Policy. These were: (i) to generate evidence to demonstrate that local seed businesses (farmer groups) can produce and market quality seed; (ii) to engage stakeholders towards an inclusive seed policy; and (iii) to develop a separate QDS regulatory framework. By 2021, institutionalization has reached a critical mass. Areas of attention for full institutionalization are the decentralization of inspection services, awareness and demand creation for quality seed, increasing the number of seed producers, and solving shortages of basic seed (starting material for producing seed).
The Gene Regulatory Roles of Herbal Extracts on the Growth, Immune System, and Reproduction of Fish
Authors: Ahmadifar Ehsan , Pourmohammadi Fallah Hamideh , Yousefi Morteza , Dawood Mahmoud A. O. , Hoseinifar Seyed Hossein , Adineh Hossein , Yilmaz Sevdan , Paolucci Marina , Doan Hien Van
Published: July 2021

The crucial need for safe and healthy aquatic animals obligates researchers in aquaculture to investigate alternative and beneficial additives. Medicinal herbals and their extracts are compromised with diverse effects on the performances of aquatic animals. These compounds can affect growth performance and stimulate the immune system when used in fish diet. In addition, the use of medicinal herbs and their extracts can reduce oxidative stress induced by several stressors during fish culture. Correspondingly, aquatic animals could gain increased resistance against infectious pathogens and environmental stressors. Nevertheless, the exact mode of action where these additives can affect aquatic animals’ performances is still not well documented. Understanding the mechanistic role of herbal supplements and their derivatives is a vital tool to develop further the strategies and application of these additives for feasible and sustainable aquaculture. Gene-related studies have clarified the detailed information on the herbal supplements’ mode of action when administered orally in aquafeed. Several review articles have presented the potential roles of medicinal herbs on the performances of aquatic animals. However, this review article discusses the outputs of studies conducted on aquatic animals fed dietary, medicinal herbs, focusing on the gene expression related to growth and immune performances. Furthermore, a particular focus is directed to the expected influence of herbal supplements on the reproduction of aquatic animals.
Diets for Dairy Cows with Different Proportions of Crude Protein Originating from Red Clover Silage versus Soybean Meal: Ruminal Degradation and Intestinal Digestibility of Amino Acids
Authors: Westreicher-Kristen Edwin , Blank Ralf , Paschke-Beese Monika , Kühl Wiebke , Wolffram Siegfried , Metges Cornelia C. , Susenbeth Andreas
Published: July 2021

The purpose was to assess the effect of exchanging crude protein (CP) of soybean meal (SBM) with red clover silage (RCS) in total mixed rations (TMR) on ruminal degradation and intestinal digestibility (ID) of essential amino acids (EAA). Four TMR and their individual feed components were studied. The TMR were composed of forage and concentrates (75:25), with proportions of RCS in TMR of 0.15, 0.30, 0.45, and 0.60 on a dry matter basis, resulting in diet groups RCS15, RCS30, RCS45, and RCS60, respectively. The ruminal degradation of EAA was determined using the nylon bag technique. For this, samples of TMR and their individual feed components were ruminally incubated for 16 h. The feed residues of TMR obtained after 16 h of incubation were used for the determination of ID of EAA using the mobile-bag technique. Increasing RCS and reducing SBM proportions linearly increased (p < 0.01) the in situ ruminal degradation of individual EAA from 75.5% to 83.5%. The degradation of EAA followed the trend of CP degradation among TMR, except for Cys that was lower (p < 0.05) than that of CP in RCS60 (79.7% vs. 86.3%). The degradation of EAA in individual feed ingredients not always corresponded to the degradation of CP and was feed dependent. Increasing the proportions of RCS in the TMR linearly reduced (p < 0.001) the ID of EAA (except for Ile) from 78.2% to 67.3%. However, the ID of EAA did not always reflect the ID of CP, and in general, the differences between the ID of CP and EAA increased as RCS increased in the TMR. The ID values of most of the EAA were similar (p > 0.05) to ID of CP in RCS15 and RCS30, while they mostly differed (p < 0.05) in RCS45 and RCS60, and being higher for EAA than CP (except for Cys that was lower than CP, p < 0.05). Similar trends were observed for intestinal absorbable AA, resulting in higher values (p < 0.05) of intestinal absorbable for all EAA than of CP in diet RCS60. In conclusion, increasing levels of RCS in TMR reduced the extent of EAA flow into the small intestine, the ID of EAA, and consequently the intestinal absorbable EAA. Therefore, accurate determination of metabolizable AA must be considered for optimal diet formulation when including high proportions of RCS in diets of high-producing dairy cows.
Effects of Different Housing Systems during Suckling and Rearing Period on Skin and Tail Lesions, Tail Losses and Performance of Growing and Finishing Pigs
Authors: Lange Anita , Hahne Michael , Lambertz Christian , Gauly Matthias , Wendt Michael , Janssen Heiko , Traulsen Imke
Published: July 2021

Feasible alternatives to stressful weaning and tail-docking are needed to inhibit tail biting. Therefore, we investigated the effects of housing systems for 1106 pigs that were weaned from: (1) conventional farrowing crates (FC), (2) free-farrowing pens (FF), or (3) group housing of lactating sows (GH) into (1) conventional rearing pens (Conv) or (2) piglets remained in their farrowing pens for rearing (Reaf). Tails were docked or left undocked batchwise. All pigs were regrouped for the fattening period. Pigs were scored for skin lesions, tail lesions and losses. After weaning, Conv-GH pigs had significantly less skin lesions than Conv-FC and Conv-FF pigs. After regrouping for fattening, Reaf-GH pigs had significantly less skin lesions than Conv pigs, Reaf-FC and Reaf-FF. The frequency of tail lesions of undocked Conv pigs peaked in week 4 (66.8%). Two weeks later, Reaf undocked pigs reached their maximum (36.2%). At the end of fattening, 99.3% of undocked Conv pigs and 43.1% of undocked Reaf pigs lost parts of their tail. In conclusion, the co-mingling of piglets during suckling reduced the incidence of skin lesions. Rearing in the farrowing pen significantly reduced the incidence of tail lesions and losses for undocked pigs. No housing system negatively affected the performance.
Exploring the Antivirulence Activity of Pulverulentone A, a Phloroglucinol-Derivative from Callistemon citrinus Leaf Extract, against Multi-Drug Resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Ismail Maha M. , Hassan Mariam , Moawad Sawsan S. , Okba Mona M. , Ashour Rehab M. , Fayek Nesrin M. , Saber Fatema R.
Published: July 2021

(1) Background: Bacterial resistance to antibiotics is a global life-threatening issue. Antivirulence therapy is a promising approach to combat bacterial infections as it disarms the bacteria from their virulence factors with reduced selective pressure and a lower chance of resistance. (2) Methods: Callistemon citrinus leaf extract and its major constituent, Pulverulentone A, were tested for their ability to inhibit biofilm, exopolysaccharides, pyocyanin and proteases produced by MDR P. aeruginosa. In addition, a Galleria mellonella larvae model was employed to evaluate the in vivo cytotoxicity of Pulverulentone A and its ability to combat Pseudomonas infection. Docking study was further performed to investigate Pulverulentone A druggability against main quorum sensing (QS) targets expressed by P. aeruginosa; (3) Results: Both C. citrinus extract and the isolated compound could inhibit biofilm formation, extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) and pigment production by the tested isolates. Unexpectedly, no significant inhibition was observed on proteases production. The in silico docking analysis revealed good interactions of Pulverulentone A with all QS targets examined (LasR, MyfR/PqsR, QscR). Pulverulentone A was safe up to 400 µg·mL−1 in Galleria caterpillars. Moreover, pre-treatment of P. aeruginosa with Pulverulentone A slightly enhanced the survival of the infected larvae. (4) Conclusions: The present study proves Pulverulentone A safety with significant in vitro and in silico antivirulence potential against P. aeruginosa.
Prevention of Teratogenesis in Pregnancies of Obese Rats by Vitamin E Supplementation
Authors: Alcala Martin , Bolado Victoria E. , Sánchez-Vera Isabel , Clapés Sonia , Dasí Francisco , Sáez Guillermo , Carrera Esther , Alvarez-Gallego Fabiola , Loeken Mary R. , Viana Marta
Published: July 2021

Congenital malformations are a common adverse outcome in pregnancies complicated by pregestational obesity, although the underlying mechanisms are still unrevealed. Our aim was to study the effect of oxidative stress in obesity-induced teratogenesis. Wistar rats were fed a high-fat diet for 13 weeks, with (OE group) or without (O group) vitamin E supplementation. Then, rats were mated and sacrificed at day 11.5 of gestation. Embryos from O dams presented a 25.9 ± 3.5% rate of malformations (vs. 8.7 ± 3.4% in C rats), which was reduced in the OE group (11.5 ± 2.3%). Pregestational obesity induced hepatic protein and DNA oxidation and a decline in antioxidant enzymes. Importantly, glutathione content was also decreased, limiting the availability of this antioxidant in the embryos. Vitamin E supplementation efficiently maintained glutathione levels in the obese mothers, which could be used in their embryos to prevent oxidation-induced malformations. To test the effect of decreasing glutathione levels alone in a cell culture model of neuroepithelium, murine embryonic stem cells (ESC) were induced to form neuronal precursors and glutathione synthesis was inhibited with the gamma–glutamylcysteine synthesis inhibitor, buthionine sulfoximine (BSO). BSO inhibited the expression of Pax3, a gene required for neural tube closure that is also inhibited by oxidative stress. Taken together, our data indicate that obesity causes malformations through the depletion of maternal glutathione, thereby decreasing glutathione-dependent free radical scavenging in embryos, which can be prevented by vitamin E supplementation.
GLP-1 Analog Liraglutide Improves Vascular Function in Polymicrobial Sepsis by Reduction of Oxidative Stress and Inflammation
Authors: Helmstädter Johanna , Keppeler Karin , Aust Franziska , Küster Leonie , Frenis Katie , Filippou Konstantina , Vujacic-Mirski Ksenija , Tsohataridis Simeon , Kalinovic Sanela , Kröller-Schön Swenja , Oelze Matthias , Bosmann Markus , Münzel Thomas , Daiber Andreas , Steven Sebastian
Published: July 2021

Sepsis causes high mortality in the setting of septic shock. LEADER and other trials revealed cardioprotective and anti-inflammatory properties of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analogs like liraglutide (Lira). We previously demonstrated improved survival in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced endotoxemia by inhibition of GLP-1 degradation. Here we investigate the effects of Lira in the polymicrobial sepsis model of cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). C57BL/6J mice were intraperitoneally injected with Lira (200 µg/kg/d; 3 days) and sepsis induced by CLP after one day of GLP-1 analog treatment. Survival and body temperature were monitored. Aortic vascular function (isometric tension recording), protein expression (immunohistochemistry and dot blot) and gene expression (qRT-PCR) were determined. Endothelium-dependent relaxation in the aorta was impaired by CLP and correlated with markers of inflammation (e.g., interleukin 6 and inducible nitric oxide synthase) and oxidative stress (e.g., 3-nitrotyrosine) was higher in septic mice, all of which was almost completely normalized by Lira therapy. We demonstrate that the GLP-1 analog Lira ameliorates sepsis-induced endothelial dysfunction by the reduction of vascular inflammation and oxidative stress. Accordingly, the findings suggest that the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of GLP-1 analogs may be a valuable tool to protect the cardiovascular system from dysbalanced inflammation in polymicrobial sepsis.
Effect of Cooking Methods on Bioactivity of Polyphenols in Purple Potatoes
Authors: Sun Qi , Du Min , Navarre Duroy A. , Zhu Meijun
Published: July 2021

Purple-fleshed potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is a good dietary source of anthocyanins, flavonols, and polyphenolic acids, mostly chlorogenic acid. The objective of this study was to examine the impacts of cooking methods including boiling, steaming, and the newly developed vacuum-sealed boiling (VSBoil) on extractability and bioactivity of polyphenolic compounds in a purple potato (PP) cultivar, Purple Pelisse. Data showed that boiling and steaming reduced the total polyphenolic content in PP. High-performance liquid chromatography analysis showed that steaming slightly reduced the extractable chlorogenic acid content, while VSBoil increased it. For DPPH free radical scavenging activities, VSBoil and steaming effectively preserved the antioxidant activity of a polyphenol-rich extract of PP, while boiling resulted in a significant reduction compared to raw potato extract. All extracts effectively suppressed bursts of intracellular reactive oxygen species in human colonic epithelial cells upon hydrogen peroxide induction, of which the extract from the VSBoil group showed the highest antioxidant potential. In addition, all extracts showed anti-inflammatory effects in Caco-2 cells induced with tumor necrosis factor-α. In conclusion, the content and bioactivity of extractable polyphenols were largely retained in PP subjected to different cooking processes. VSBoil resulted in the highest content of extractable polyphenolic compounds and bioactivity among tested cooking methods.
Melatonin as an Antioxidant and Immunomodulator in Atopic Dermatitis—A New Look on an Old Story: A Review
Authors: Jaworek Andrzej Kazimierz , Szepietowski Jacek Cezary , Hałubiec Przemysław , Wojas-Pelc Anna , Jaworek Jolanta
Published: July 2021

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is common inflammatory dermatosis, typically with chronic and recurrent course, which significantly reduces the quality of life. Sleep disturbances are considered to be remarkably burdensome ailments in patients with AD, and are routinely included during assessment of disease severity. Therefore, endogenous substances engaged in the control of circadian rhythms might be important in pathogenesis of AD and, possibly, be used as biomarkers of disease severity or even in development of novel therapies. Melatonin (MT), the indoleamine produced by pineal gland (but also by multiple other tissues, including skin), plays a pivotal role in maintaining the sleep/wake homeostasis. Additionally, it possesses strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which might directly link chronic skin inflammation and sleep abnormalities characteristic of AD. The objective of this work is to systematically present and summarize the results of studies (both experimental and clinical) that investigated the role of MT in the AD, with a focus on the antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects of MT.
Exposure to Salinity and Light Spectra Regulates Glucosinolates, Phenolics, and Antioxidant Capacity of Brassica carinata L. Microgreens
Authors: Maina Sylvia , Ryu Da Hye , Cho Jwa Yeong , Jung Da Seul , Park Jai-Eok , Nho Chu Won , Bakari Gaymary , Misinzo Gerald , Jung Je Hyeong , Yang Seung-Hoon , Kim Ho-Youn
Published: July 2021

The effect of salt treatment on Brassica carinata (BC) microgreens grown under different light wavelengths on glucosinolates (GLs) and phenolic compounds were evaluated. Quantifiable GLs were identified using ultra-high performance-quadrupole time of flight mass spectrometry. Extracts’ ability to activate antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT)) was evaluated on human colorectal carcinoma cells (HCT116). Furthermore, BC compounds’ ability to activate expression of nuclear transcription factor-erythroid 2 related factor (Nrf2) and heme-oxygenase-1 (HO-1) proteins was examined using specific antibodies on HCT116 cells. Sinigrin (SIN) was the abundant GLs of the six compounds identified and its content together with total aliphatic GLs increased in saline conditions. Fluorescent (FL) and blue plus red (B1R1) lights were identified as stable cultivation conditions for microgreens, promoting biomass and glucobrassicin contents, whereas other identified individual and total indole GLs behaved differently in saline and non-saline environments. Blue light-emitting diodes and FL light in saline treatments mostly enhanced SIN, phenolics and antioxidant activities. The increased SOD and CAT activities render the BC microgreens suitable for lowering oxidative stress. Additionally, activation of Nrf2, and HO-1 protein expression by the GLs rich extracts, demonstrate their potential to treat and prevent oxidative stress and inflammatory disorders. Therefore, effective salt treatments and light exposure to BC microgreens present an opportunity for targeted regulation of growth and accumulation of bioactive metabolites.
Oxidized LDLs as Signaling Molecules
Authors: Zingg Jean-Marc , Vlad Adelina , Ricciarelli Roberta
Published: July 2021

Levels of oxidized low-density lipoproteins (oxLDLs) are usually low in vivo but can increase whenever the balance between formation and scavenging of free radicals is impaired. Under normal conditions, uptake and degradation represent the physiological cellular response to oxLDL exposure. The uptake of oxLDLs is mediated by cell surface scavenger receptors that may also act as signaling molecules. Under conditions of atherosclerosis, monocytes/macrophages and vascular smooth muscle cells highly exposed to oxLDLs tend to convert to foam cells due to the intracellular accumulation of lipids. Moreover, the atherogenic process is accelerated by the increased expression of the scavenger receptors CD36, SR-BI, LOX-1, and SRA in response to high levels of oxLDL and oxidized lipids. In some respects, the effects of oxLDLs, involving cell proliferation, inflammation, apoptosis, adhesion, migration, senescence, and gene expression, can be seen as an adaptive response to the rise of free radicals in the vascular system. Unlike highly reactive radicals, circulating oxLDLs may signal to cells at more distant sites and possibly trigger a systemic antioxidant defense, thus elevating the role of oxLDLs to that of signaling molecules with physiological relevance.
Amidinoquinoxaline-Based Nitrones as Lipophilic Antioxidants
Authors: Gruber Nadia , Orelli Liliana , Minnelli Cristina , Mangano Luca , Laudadio Emiliano , Mobbili Giovanna , Stipa Pierluigi
Published: July 2021

The potential of nitrones (N-oxides) as therapeutic antioxidants is due to their ability to counteract oxidative stress, mainly attributed to their action as radical scavengers toward C- and O-centered radicals. Among them, nitrones from the amidinoquinoxaline series resulted in interesting derivatives, due to the ease with which it is possible to introduce proper substituents within their structure in order to modulate their lipophilicity. The goal is to obtain lipophilic antioxidants that are able to interact with cell membranes and, at the same time, enough hydrophilic to neutralize those radicals present in a water compartment. In this work, the antioxidant efficacy of a series of amidinoquinoxaline nitrones has been evaluated regarding the oxidation of 2-deoxyribose and lipid peroxidation. The results have been rationalized on the basis of the different possible mechanisms involved, depending on some of their properties, such as lipophilicity, the ability to scavenge free radicals, and to undergo single electron transfer (SET) reactions.
Left Ventricular SGLT1 Protein Expression Correlates with the Extent of Myocardial Nitro-Oxidative Stress in Rats with Pressure and Volume Overload-Induced Heart Failure
Authors: Sayour Alex Ali , Ruppert Mihály , Oláh Attila , Benke Kálmán , Barta Bálint András , Zsáry Eszter , Ke Haoran , Horváth Eszter Mária , Merkely Béla , Radovits Tamás
Published: July 2021

Myocardial sodium-glucose cotransporter 1 (SGLT1) has been shown to be upregulated in humans with heart failure (HF) with or without diabetes. In vitro studies have linked SGLT1 to increased nitro-oxidative stress in cardiomyocytes. We aimed to assess the relation between left ventricular (LV) SGLT1 expression and the extent of nitro-oxidative stress in two non-diabetic rat models of chronic heart failure (HF) evoked by either pressure (TAC, n = 12) or volume overload (ACF, n = 12). Sham-operated animals (Sham-T and Sham-A, both n = 12) served as controls. Both TAC and ACF induced characteristic LV structural and functional remodeling. Western blotting revealed that LV SGLT1 protein expression was significantly upregulated in both HF models (both p < 0.01), whereas the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 was decreased only in ACF; AMPKα activity was significantly reduced in both models. The protein expression of the Nox4 NADPH oxidase isoform was increased in both TAC and ACF compared with respective controls (both p < 0.01), showing a strong positive correlation with SGLT1 expression (r = 0.855, p < 0.001; and r = 0.798, p = 0.001, respectively). Furthermore, SGLT1 protein expression positively correlated with the extent of myocardial nitro-oxidative stress in failing hearts assessed by 3-nitrotyrosin (r = 0.818, p = 0.006) and 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (r = 0.733, p = 0.020) immunostaining. Therefore, LV SGLT1 protein expression was upregulated irrespective of the nature of chronic hemodynamic overload, and correlated significantly with the expression of Nox4 and with the level of myocardial nitro-oxidative stress, suggesting a pathophysiological role of SGLT1 in HF.
The Effect of Ageing on Chemical and Strength Characteristics of Nanoclay-Modified Bitumen and Asphalt Mixture
Authors: Omar Hend Ali , Katman Herda Yati , Bilema Munder , Ahmed Mohamed Khalifa Ali , Milad Abdalrhman , Md Yusoff Nur Izzi
Published: July 2021

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of ageing on bitumen, before and after modification. Nano-clay modified bitumen (NCMB) was produced by adding nano-clay (NC) to 60/70 penetration grade bitumen; then, the binder was tested using conventional tests for properties such as penetration, softening point and viscosity. These tests were carried out on the modified binder before and after ageing. A rolling thin film oven (RTFO) was used to simulate short-term ageing (STA), and a pressure ageing vessel (PAV) was used to simulate long-term ageing (LTA) for the modified binder. After initial results showed an improvement for the modified bitumen regarding the effect of ageing, the investigation continued using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), where the microstructure distribution of the modified binder before and after ageing was observed. Finally, there was no doubt that the effect of ageing on mixtures should be investigated. For this step, the indirect tensile strength (ITS) test, which highlights the strength changes that occur for the mixtures after ageing, was selected. The results indicated that the tensile strength of mixtures made with modified bitumen showed better resistance against ageing when NC was added, which is in good agreement with the results of previous binder tests. The results of this study show that the modification of bitumen using nano-clay as an additive improves the ageing resistance of the binder, which is consequently reflected in the strength of the asphalt mixture.
Comparative Study on Wood CNC Routing Methods for Transposing a Traditional Motif from Romanian Textile Heritage into Furniture Decoration
Authors: Lungu Antonela , Ispas Mihai , Brenci Luminiţa-Maria , Răcăşan Sergiu , Coşereanu Camelia
Published: July 2021

This paper presents experimental research on the Computer Numerical Control (CNC) routing of a traditional motif collected from Ţara Bârsei (Transylvania region) using two methods, namely, engraving (Engrave) and carving (V-Carve). The analysis of the CNC router processes includes the calculation of the path lengths, an assessment of the processing time and wood mass loss, and an evaluation of the tool wearing by investigating the tool cutting edge on a Stereo Microscope NIKON SMZ 18 before and after processing the ornament on wood. An aesthetic evaluation of the ornament routed on wood, using both the engraving and carving methods, is also conducted, whilst a microscopic analysis of the processed areas highlights the defects that occurred on the wood surface depending on the tool path.
Application of a Similarity Measure Using Fuzzy Sets to Select the Optimal Plan for an Air-Assisted Rice Seeder
Authors: Hai Nguyen Thanh , Chosa Tadashi , Tojo Seishu , Thi-Hien Ngo
Published: July 2021

Air-assisted rice seeders were designed to perform sowing while ensuring the alignment and depth of seeds within the allowable standard range of 5–10 mm. Their performance varies on the basis of different specifications; thus, it is necessary to evaluate them to select the best one. Fuzzy set theory allows us to flexibly handle practical problems, especially applied problems in engineering. In this paper, a new similarity measure using fuzzy sets is proposed, and its advantages were tested using the technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) method to select technical parameters for the sowing machines. The experiments allowed identifying the best results. The correlations between input attributes and decision variables were determined on the basis of their correlation coefficients with technical factors. The influence of technical factors on output results was also examined to determine the technical factors providing superior product quality.
Applications of Advanced Analysis Technologies in Precise Governance of Social Media Rumors
Authors: Du Xinyu , Ou Limei , Zhao Ye , Zhang Qi , Li Zongmin
Published: July 2021

Social media rumor precise governance is conducive to better coping with the difficulties of rumor monitoring within massive information and improving rumor governance effectiveness. This paper proposes a conceptual framework of social media rumor precise governance system based on literature mining. Accordingly, insightful directions for achieving social media rumor precise governance are introduced, which includes (1) rational understanding of social media rumors, especially large-scale spreading false rumors and recurring false rumors; (2) clear classification of rumor spreaders/believers/refuters/unbelievers; (3) scientific evaluation of rumor governance effectiveness and capabilities. For the above three directions, advanced analysis technologies applications are then summarized. This paper is beneficial to clarify and promote the promising thought of social media rumor precise governance and create impacts on the technologies’ applications in this area.
Possibilities for Depleting the Content of Undesirable Volatile Phenolic Compounds in White Wine with the Use of Low-Intervention and Economically Efficient Grape Processing Technology
Authors: Ailer Štefan , Serenčéš Roman , Kozelová Dagmar , Poláková Zuzana , Jakabová Silvia
Published: July 2021

The influence of the technological processes of grape processing on the content of hydroxycinnamic acids and volatile phenolic substances in wine was studied. The method of targeted oxygenation was applied in grape processing technology of the Welschriesling and Chardonnay grape varieties. The content of volatile phenolic substances was determined by gas chromatography, the content of hydroxycinnamic acids by liquid chromatography, and the basic analytical parameters of the wine by FTIR spectrometry. The method of targeted must oxygenation had a statistically significant effect on the content of hydroxycinnamic acids and volatile phenolics in the wine. In all three monitored years (2015–2017), the content of 4-vinylphenol and 4-vinylguajacol in the wine significantly decreased. A significant dependence between the content of hydroxycinnamic acids and volatile phenolics was found. The experiment showed that a 1% increase in the content of hydroxycinnamic acids in the Chardonnay variety could result in an average increase in the content of monitored volatile phenolics by 3.6% (3 years’ data). Naturally reducing the content of hydroxycinnamic acids, with the application of technological processes, eliminated the oxidative processes during wine maturation. Sensory undesirable volatile phenolic substances were consequently formed in lower quantities, and there was no negative impact on the favourable sensory properties of wine. It was not necessary to use the polyvinylpolypyrrolidone adsorbents.
Day-Ahead Solar Irradiance Forecasting Using Hybrid Recurrent Neural Network with Weather Classification for Power System Scheduling
Authors: Zafar Rehman , Vu Ba Hau , Husein Munir , Chung Il-Yop
Published: July 2021

At the present time, power-system planning and management is facing the major challenge of integrating renewable energy resources (RESs) due to their intermittent nature. To address this problem, a highly accurate renewable energy generation forecasting system is needed for day-ahead power generation scheduling. Day-ahead solar irradiance (SI) forecasting has various applications for system operators and market agents such as unit commitment, reserve management, and biding in the day-ahead market. To this end, a hybrid recurrent neural network is presented herein that uses the long short-term memory recurrent neural network (LSTM-RNN) approach to forecast day-ahead SI. In this approach, k-means clustering is first used to classify each day as either sunny or cloudy. Then, LSTM-RNN is used to learn the uncertainty and variability for each type of cluster separately to predict the SI with better accuracy. The exogenous features such as the dry-bulb temperature, dew point temperature, and relative humidity are used to train the models. Results show that the proposed hybrid model has performed better than a feed-forward neural network (FFNN), a support vector machine (SVM), a conventional LSTM-RNN, and a persistence model.
Variations of Accelerometer and Metabolic Power Global Positioning System Variables across a Soccer Season: A Within-Group Study for Starters and Non-Starters
Authors: Nobari Hadi , Oliveira Rafael , Siahkouhian Marefat , Pérez-Gómez Jorge , Cazan Florin , Ardigò Luca Paolo
Published: July 2021

The aims of this study were to analyze the within-group weekly metabolic power average (wMPA), weekly acceleration zones (wAcZ), and weekly deceleration zones (wDcZ), in starter and non-starter professional soccer players, based on different periods of the full season (pre-, early-, mid-, and end-season). Twenty-one professional soccer players (age, 28.3 ± 3.8 years; height, 181.2 ± 7.1 cm; body mass, 74.5 ± 7.7 kg; BMI, 22.6 ± 1.0 kg·m2) were monitored during the full season in the highest level of the Iranian Premier League. WMPA, wAcZ, and wDcZ at three different zones (wAcZ1, wAcZ2, wAcZ3, wDcZ1, wDcZ2, wDcZ3) were collected using Global Positioning System. ANOVA was applied to analyze within-group changes across the different periods of the full season. In general, starters presented higher values in the beginning of the season (pre- and early-season) and lower values at mid- and end-season. Specifically, starters showed significant differences in early- vs. mid-season for wMPA, wAcZ1, and wDcZ1 (p < 0.05), plus early- vs. end-season for wMPA and wAcZ1 (p < 0.01). In addition, non-starters showed higher values in the pre-season that decreased until the end-season for wMPA, wAcZ1, and wDcZ1. Regarding wAcZ2, wDcZ2, wAcZ3, and wDcZ3, non-starters presented higher values in early-season that decreased until the end-season. Specifically, non-starters showed significant differences in pre- vs. mid-season for wMPA, wAcZ1, and wDcZ1; pre- vs. end-season for wMPA, wDcZ1, wDccZ2, and wDcZ3; early- vs. mid-season for wMPA, wAcZ1, wDcZ1, wAcZ2, and wDccZ2; early- vs. end-season for wMPA, wAcZ1, wDcZ1, wAcZ2 wDccZ2, wAcZ3, and wDcZ3; and mid- vs. end-season for wMPA, wAcZ1, and wAcZ3 (p < 0.05). In conclusion, starters were revealed to have higher values in pre- and early-season, and lower values in mid- to end-season, while non-starters were revealed to have lower load values in pre- and end-season and higher load values in early- and mid-season. This study provides extra insights over the season for starters and non-starters, respectively. Data can be used by coaches to better training periodization across soccer season.
Outlier Detection Based Feature Selection Exploiting Bio-Inspired Optimization Algorithms
Authors: Larabi-Marie-Sainte Souad
Published: July 2021

The curse of dimensionality problem occurs when the data are high-dimensional. It affects the learning process and reduces the accuracy. Feature selection is one of the dimensionality reduction approaches that mainly contribute to solving the curse of the dimensionality problem by selecting the relevant features. Irrelevant features are the dependent and redundant features that cause noise in the data and then reduce its quality. The main well-known feature-selection methods are wrapper and filter techniques. However, wrapper feature selection techniques are computationally expensive, whereas filter feature selection methods suffer from multicollinearity. In this research study, four new feature selection methods based on outlier detection using the Projection Pursuit method are proposed. Outlier detection involves identifying abnormal data (irrelevant features of the transpose matrix obtained from the original dataset matrix). The concept of outlier detection using projection pursuit has proved its efficiency in many applications but has not yet been used as a feature selection approach. To the author’s knowledge, this study is the first of its kind. Experimental results on nineteen real datasets using three classifiers (k-NN, SVM, and Random Forest) indicated that the suggested methods enhanced the classification accuracy rate by an average of 6.64% when compared to the classification accuracy without applying feature selection. It also outperformed the state-of-the-art methods on most of the used datasets with an improvement rate ranging between 0.76% and 30.64%. Statistical analysis showed that the results of the proposed methods are statistically significant.
Geometric Deep Lean Learning: Evaluation Using a Twitter Social Network
Authors: Villalba-Diez Javier , Molina Martin , Schmidt Daniel
Published: July 2021

The goal of this work is to evaluate a deep learning algorithm that has been designed to predict the topological evolution of dynamic complex non-Euclidean graphs in discrete–time in which links are labeled with communicative messages. This type of graph can represent, for example, social networks or complex organisations such as the networks associated with Industry 4.0. In this paper, we first introduce the formal geometric deep lean learning algorithm in its essential form. We then propose a methodology to systematically mine the data generated in social media Twitter, which resembles these complex topologies. Finally, we present the evaluation of a geometric deep lean learning algorithm that allows for link prediction within such databases. The evaluation results show that this algorithm can provide high accuracy in the link prediction of a retweet social network.
Effects of Complex Electromagnetic Fields on Candida albicans Adhesion and Proliferation on Polyacrylic Resin
Authors: Petrini Morena , Di Lodovico Silvia , Iezzi Giovanna , Cipollina Alessandro , Piattelli Adriano , Cellini Luigina , D’Ercole Simonetta
Published: July 2021

(1) Background: The objectives of this study were to evaluate the effect of several sessions of the antibacterial protocol of complex electromagnetic fields (CMFs) on planktonic Candida albicans and fungal ability, after treatment with CMFs, to adhere and proliferate on acrylic resin materials. (2) Methods: Planktonic overnight cultures of Candida albicans were subjected to different entities of CMFs treatments. Four test groups were compared: “p1”: treated only with the first program of the antibacterial protocol; “p1–p5” subjected to the first five programs; “1 antibacterial” received one complete session of the protocol and “2 antibacterial” received two complete sessions. After the treatments, the number of colony forming units (CFUs) were recorded. Then, C. albicans broth cultures were cultivated on polyacrylic resin discs and evaluated for CFUs and subjected to scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis. (3) Results: Microbiological analysis showed that CMFs promoted a significant reduction of C. albicans CFUs when the protocol “p1–p5” was applied. No statistically significant differences between test groups were observed if the time of exposure to CMFs was increased. SEM observations and CFUs showed that CMFs treatments have the ability to reduce C. albicans adherence and proliferation on discs. (4) Conclusions: The CMFs showed an antifungal effect as well as a decrease in C. albicans adhesion on polyacrylic resin.
Influencing Factors on Aesthetics: Highly Controlled Study Based on Eye Movement and the Forensic Aspects in Computer-Based Assessment of Visual Appeal in Upper Front Teeth
Authors: Bjelopavlovic Monika , Weyhrauch Michael , Erbe Christina , Burkard Franziska , Petrowski Katja , Lehmann Karl Martin
Published: July 2021

First impressions are formed by the external appearance and, in this respect, essentially by an examination of the face. In the literature, the teeth, especially the maxillary front, are among an eye-catching and sensitive area that plays a significant role in the overall evaluation of appearance. In this study, the first eye fixation of 60 subjects with different levels of dental training (layperson, trained layperson, dental student, and dentist) is recorded using an eye-tracking system, and their subsequent evaluation of the images is recorded. Ten unedited original photographs of different maxillary anterior teeth and ten subsequently edited photographs will be used to evaluate forensic aspects such as the effect of symmetry and color on the overall evaluation. The results will be used to determine which areas of the maxillary anterior are demonstrably viewed and whether knowledge of dental esthetics influences evaluation and viewing.
Fabrication of Magnesium-Aluminum Composites under High-Pressure Torsion: Atomistic Simulation
Authors: Polyakova Polina Viktorovna , Pukhacheva Julia Alexandrovna , Shcherbinin Stepan Aleksandrovich , Baimova Julia Aidarovna , Mulyukov Radik Rafikovich
Published: July 2021

The aluminum–magnesium (Al–Mg) composite materials possess a large potential value in practical application due to their excellent properties. Molecular dynamics with the embedded atom method potentials is applied to study Al–Mg interface bonding during deformation-temperature treatment. The study of fabrication techniques to obtain composites with improved mechanical properties, and dynamics and kinetics of atom mixture are of high importance. The loading scheme used in the present work is the simplification of the scenario, experimentally observed previously to obtain Al–Cu and Al–Nb composites. It is shown that shear strain has a crucial role in the mixture process. The results indicated that the symmetrical atomic movement occurred in the Mg–Al interface during deformation. Tensile tests showed that fracture occurred in the Mg part of the final composite sample, which means that the interlayer region where the mixing of Mg, and Al atoms observed is much stronger than the pure Mg part.