bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Study About the Synergy of Polar Fractions of Pomegranate Peel and Amoxicillin Trihydrate Against Enterococcus faecalis
Authors: HOŞ Ayşegül , KUDAY Hilal , TUNÇ Kenan , SEMERCİ Alican Bahadir
Published: October 2020

The increase in the occurrence of the multidrug-resistant bacteria is the cause of need in the discovering new antimicrobial substances and antimicrobial combination drugs. The aim of this study was to investigate the synergistic interaction between polar fractions of pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) peel and Amoxicillin trihydrate against Enterococcus faecalis. In the first step of the study, polar fractions of pomegranate peel (ethyl acetate, butanol, distilled water) were prepared. Next, disc diffusion method was used for determination of the synergic effect. Here, the results indicated that the mixture of prepared polar fractions of pomegranate peel and Amoxicillin trihydrate showed synergistic interaction against E. faecalis. This study determined that polar fractions of pomegranate peel (ethyl acetate, butanol, distilled water) improved the effectiveness of Amoxicillin trihydrate against E. faecalis. Pomegranate peel may have potential applications in the new antibacterial therapy combinations due to its easy accessibility, therapeutic properties and being low cost. Results of the present study may be beneficial for further studies about the characterization of phytochemical compounds that are responsible for the improvement of the antibiotic effectiveness.
Disturbance of the Magnetic Field Did Not Affect Spatial Memory
Authors: LI Y. , ZHANG C. , SONG T.
Published: October 2020

Extremely low-frequency magnetic field (ELF-MF) has been suggested to influence the cognitive capability but this should be dynamically evaluated in a longitudinal study. Previous training can affect performance, but the influence under magnetic field is unclear. This study aims to evaluate the effects of previous training and ELF-MF exposure on learning and memory using the Morris water maze (MWM). Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to MWM training, ELF-MF exposure (50 Hz, 100 µT), or ELF-MF exposure combined with MWM training for 90 days. Normal rats were used as controls. The MWM was used to test. The data show that the rats exposed to training and ELF-MF with training performed better on spatial acquisition when re-tested. However, during the probe trial the rats showed no change between the training phase and the test phase. Compared with the control group, the ELF-MF group showed no significant differences. These results confirm that previous training can improve the learning and memory capabilities regarding spatial acquisition in the MWM and this effect can last for at least 90 days. However, this improvement in learning and memory capabilities was not observed during the probe trial. Furthermore, ELF-MF exposure did not interfere with the improvement in learning and memory capabilities.
Riboflavin Supplementation Improves Energy Metabolism in Mice Exposed to Acute Hypoxia
Authors: WANG Y. P. , WEI J. Y. , YANG J. J. , GAO W. N. , WU J. Q. , GUO C. J.
Published: October 2020

This study investigated the effects of riboflavin on energy metabolism in hypoxic mice. Kunming mice were fed diets containing riboflavin at doses of 6, 12, 24 and 48 mg/kg, respectively for 2 weeks before exposure to a simulated altitude of 6000 m for 8 h. Changes of riboflavin status and energy metabolism were assessed biochemically. Simultaneously, a 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) based metabolomic technique was used to track the changes of plasma metabolic profiling. It was found that the content of hepatic riboflavin was decreased and erythrocyte glutathione activation coefficient was elevated significantly under hypoxic condition. Meanwhile, increased plasma pyruvate, lactate, β-hydroxybutyrate and urea, as well as decreased plasma carnitine were observed. Riboflavin supplementation improved riboflavin status remarkably in hypoxic mice and decreased plasma levels of pyruvate, free fatty acids and β-hydroxybutyrate significantly. Plasma carnitine was increased in response to riboflavin supplementation. Results obtained from 1H NMR analysis were basically in line with the data from biochemical assays and remarkable changes in plasma taurine, choline and some other metabolites were also indicated. It was concluded that riboflavin requirement was increased under acute hypoxic condition and riboflavin supplementation was effective in improving energy metabolism in hypoxic mice.
Monitoring of Glycation, Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Relation to the Occurrence of Vascular Complications in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: JAKUŠ V. , ŠÁNDOROVÁ E. , KALNINOVÁ J. , KRAHULEC B.
Published: October 2020

The study aimed to evaluate if the monitoring of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), lipoperoxides (LPO) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in plasma could help to predict development of diabetic complications (DC). Clinical and biochemical parameters including AGEs, AOPP, LPO and IL-6 were investigated in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) with (+DC) and without (−DC) complications. AGEs were significantly higher in both diabetic groups compared to controls. AGEs were also significantly higher in group +DC compared to −DC. AGEs significantly correlated with HbA1c. We observed significantly higher AOPP in both diabetic groups in comparison with controls, but the difference between −DC and +DC was not significant. LPO significantly correlated with BMI. IL-6 were significantly increased in both diabetic groups compared to controls, but the difference between −DC and +DC was not significant. There was no significant correlation between IL-6 and clinical and biochemical parameters. These results do not exclude the association between IL-6 and onset of DC. We suggest that the measurement of not only HbA1c, but also AGEs may be useful to predict the risk of DC development in clinical practice. Furthermore, the measurement of IL-6 should be studied as adjunct to HbA1c monitoring.
Telegram Based Mobile Terminal for Body Temperature Data Storage of COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Sucipto Putra Wisnu Agung , Rahmanto Raden Hengki
Published: October 2020

Health monitoring reports against COVID-19 suspect must be presented every day at 7 o’clock in the morning and 7 o’clock at night. In this report, every patient vital signs must be monitored in order to prevent a potential decline in the level of health from the patient. One of the symptoms observed in this monitoring is a change in body temperature. This monitoring should be carried out without touching the patient’s skin to reduce potential risks of droplets that contain the virus from spreading. This work proposes an idea related to non-contact temperature monitoring which is suitable to use in this pandemic condition. This idea realization process by building a data storage terminal for body temperature scans that is mobile, cheap and has a large storage capacity. This mobile terminal is an integration of the MLX90614 a temperature sensor series, Arduino UNO and Telegram apps. In addition, the communication process between the sensor and the Telegram apps utilizes the GPRS cellular network services. Before arriving at the Telegram apps, this data will pass through gateway site which acts as a collector and relay. In the process of sending the temperature data is then converted into two body temperature categories, normal temperature and abnormal temperature. Based on the trial results that have been carried out, this system consumes 2A of current and 5V of voltage. The communication time duration between the temperature data acquisition system and the collector site is 28 seconds. While the length of time for sending the data from the collector site to the Telegram apps is 8 seconds
The Analysis of Factors That Influences People Intention to Use in Electronic Money
Authors: Fahiraningrum Tasya Octaviani , Richard Richard
Published: October 2020

Abstract

 

The development of banking service technology now allows us to do non-cash transactions using various media. Electronic money as one of the favorite media that is widely used by the public is now experiencing innovation with the new breakthrough of Electronic Money Flazz Gen 2 that can conduct transaction services via smartphones. With this latest innovation comes a question related to what factors that influence people using electronic money Flazz Gen 2. Therefore, quantitative research using a questionnaire conducted using the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) analyzed using the Structural Equation Modeling – Partial Least Square (SEM-PLS) method assisted by software SmartPLS 3.0. The factors studied were taken from the variables in the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) developed by Davis et.al (1996), namely perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, and trust variables taken from Gefen's theory (2003).

 

Keywords: TAM, Electronic Money, SEM-PLS,
“Are all diseases dead”: The Likelihood of an Attribution to Ben Jonson
Authors: Wiendels Christina
Published: October 2020

Arents S288 (Acc. No. 5442), pp. 87–88, and Rosenbach 239/27, p. 327, attribute the poem that begins “Are all diseases dead nor will death say” to Ben Jonson. While A.S.W. Rosenbach (1876–1952) owned both of these manuscripts at one point, it was actually Edwin Wolf 2nd (1911–1991) who penciled in the Jonson attributions in both manuscripts. However, the poem is found in many other manuscripts without this attribution. This paper considers the origin and validity of Wolf's attribution, and then asks, apart from Wolf's attribution, if it is plausible that Jonson wrote the poem. Wolf's consistently correct attributions in Arents S288 and correct attribution in MS 239/27 indicate that he was not as unreliable as the Rosenbach Museum & Library suggests. Ludovick Stuart, the Duke of Lennox and Richmond, who is the subject of the poem, died on 16 February 1624. My research demonstrates that an attribution to Jonson is highly plausible in terms of biographical, manuscript, and stylistic evidence. Jonson knew the poem's subject: he lived with the Duke's brother, Esmé Stuart, Lord d'Aubigny, for many years, and d'Aubigny occupied the role of patron. While the poem is elsewhere attributed to Sir John Eliot (b. 1592) or John Donne, neither is a strong candidate. The Duke fulfills the categories that I establish as Jonson's motivations to write in this poetic form: he was a significant figure and he had a personal connection to Jonson. Moreover, Jonson wrote for d'Aubigny's family on repeated occasions – and at length – over many decades.
Ben Jonson's The Alchemist: Shaping Behavior in the Shadow of the Apocalypse
Authors: Neal Mechlowicz
Published: October 2020

As portrayed in The Alchemist, Ben Jonson's London grappled with the challenges of a burgeoning urban life and its effects on morality and consumption. While using his authorship as lectern was not unique, Jonson's message, that the order of improving one's status stood to be perverted, was; and in featuring the local preoccupation with alchemy and the apocalypse, he revealed the corrupt and toxic relationship between the city's economic and religious zeal. Martin Luther's sixteenth century idea of a new religion called for man's return to his covenant with God and to simple faith. By Jonson's time however, London faced an additional battle from within, as extreme religion gained ground. Because the play was coterminous with Jonson's audience's lives, they were well-aware that pure-Protestants provoked anxieties to gather believers. In straining to escape their present and to a future marked by heavenly expectations, Jonson's characters evoked his contemporaries’ desires to address their own exigencies. By capturing his audience's attention referencing popular current events, Jonson created a stage for his greater concern, that faith in economic as well as religious transcendence exposed his milieu to divisive radicalism and victimization.
Confessing our Secrets: Liturgical Theōsis in the Thought of C.S. Lewis
Authors: Eklund Erik
Published: October 2020

While others have persuasively argued for the centrality of theōsis to C. S. Lewis’ theology, little attention has been paid to the sources through which Lewis came to his peculiar understanding of the doctrine as liturgical in the sense of being creative and contributive. Through a comparative reading of the painter scene in The Great Divorce and Ransom's vision of the Great Dance in Perelandra, this essay seeks to outline the contours of Lewis’ conception of theōsis, bringing Lewis’ intimate knowledge of medieval theological sources to bear on his conception of the doctrine. After exploring the centrality of theōsis to the whole of Lewis’ theology, the second sections explores Lewis’ thoughts on friendship, as well as Dante's influence, so as to arrive at a better understanding of the Beatific Vision as both mediated and unmediated. In the final section it becomes apparent that Lewis’ conception of theōsis, imaginatively epitomised in Ransom's Vision of the Great Dance, is largely incomprehensible apart from what he calls in The Discarded Image ‘the medieval system’, with particular reference to pseudo-Dionysius’ The Celestial Hierarchy.
When Did the Inklings Meet? A Chronological Survey of their Gatherings: 1933-1954
Authors: King Don W.
Published: October 2020

Since minutes were never taken of the Inklings’ meetings, it is not surprising that there is no complete, definitive record of when meetings occurred nor of who attended. To partly remedy this deficit, this essay offers a comprehensive chronological listing of their meetings from 1933 to 1954. Distinctions are drawn between documented meetings (where references occur about the meeting in a letter, journal, or other source) and possible meetings (where it is arguable that a meeting took place). In addition, for documented meetings, the essay identifies those present, where and when the gathering took place, and the specific source that supports the claim that the meeting occurred. The essay concludes with three brief observations about this chronology.
SATELLITE NAVIGATION EQUIPMENT FOR SOLAR SYSTEM OBJECTS EXPLORATION
Authors: Shevchuk Stanislav O. , Cheremisina Elena S. , Kosarev Nikolay S.
Published: October 2020

The article contains the overview of perspective satellite navigation systems for other planets and objects of Solar System. The example of this conception for the Moon is considered. The paper contains the brief overview of Moon exploration perspectives. An overview of countries’ space agencies programs on the Moon with automatic and human missions. The problem of lunar and cislunar navigation is considered, the ways of its solution are overviewed. One of the possible cases for lunar and cislunar navigation system realization is to create the satellite system similar to the Earth’s GNSS using the existing experiences. The main goal of the article is the conception of lunar receiver designed for the lunar navigation satellite system in case it is similar to GLONASS. The formulas’ simplifications because of Moon’s features are considered, including: absence of atmosphere and as a result absence of ionospheric and tropospheric delays; more simple gravity field because of small flattering (almost spherical shape). The conclusions on perspectives of the lunar navigation are made.
REMOTE SENSING DATA FOR MAPPING THE VILLAGE HAZARD OF THE BAMA MILL SITE
Authors: Stupin Vladimir P.
Published: October 2020

The analysis of open access remote sensing materials (satellite images and digital elevation models) from the point of view of their use for the study and mapping of the debris flow hazard of the Baikal mountain country is carried out. Descriptive signs of mudflow phenomena are described, the age limits of their interpretation are substantiated. Maps of debris flow hazard of various territories of the studied region are given.
INFORMATION BASIS OF CARTOGRAPHIC-SPACE MONITORING OF WASTE PLACEMENT (ON THE EXAMPLE OF IRKUTSK)
Authors: Stupin Vladimir P. , Radchenko Sergey A.
Published: October 2020

The information basis of cartographic and space monitoring of disposal of waste in the city of Irkutsk is analyzed. The availability and possibilities of remote sensing data, cartographic and geodetic materials, departmental documentation and literature, reference sources are considered.
PERCEPTION OF CARTOGRAPHIC IMAGES AND GEOSPATIAL INFORMATION ON MAPS AND MOBILE DEVICES
Authors: Utrobina Elena S. , Kokorina Irina P. , Radchenko Lyudmila K. , Molokina Tatyana S.
Published: October 2020

The article is devoted to the consideration of the features of the perception of cartographic images and geospatial information on traditional maps and mobile devices. Cartographic visualization can be considered as interactive construction of virtual (static, dynamic) cartographic images and their perception. The main properties of perception include: objectivity, integrity, structurality, meaningfulness, constancy, apperception, activity. Some other properties of perception are distinguished as sequence, memorability, correlation, reaction to movement. The article analyzes and generalizes the properties of perception. The study of the properties of perception from the position of visual perception of these properties on traditional maps and mobile devices. The same properties of perception of cartographic image and geospatial information on maps and mobile devices reveal themselves differently. This must be taken into account when developing cartographic applications in order to better adapt them to the specifics of user perception.
RELEVANCE OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF AN INTRUSION DETECTION SYSTEM WITH A TRAP MODULE
Authors: Maxudov Midat O. , Doroshenko Ivan E. , Grehov Andrey S. , Makarova Diana G.
Published: October 2020

The article presents the relevance of developing an intrusion detection system with a trap module. The trap module implemented as a part of the intrusion detection system allows providing a detailed report and information about the attacker for the intrusion detection and prevention system SNORT.
TERAHERTZ PHOTONICS AND SPECTROSCOPY ON NOVOSIBIRSK FREE ELECTRON LASER
Authors: Knyazev Boris A. , Vinokurov Nikolay A. , Gerasimov Vasiliy V. , Getmanov Yaroslav V. , Gorbachyov Yaroslav I. , Zhukavin Roman Kh. , Kameshkov Oleg E. , Kubarev Vitaliy V. , Kulipanov Gennadiy N. , Nikitin Aleksey K. , Osintseva Natalya D. , Pavelyev Vladimir S. , Chesnokov Evgeniy N. , Choporova Yulia Yu. , Shevchenko Oleg A.
Published: October 2020

A review of experiments in the field of photonics and plasmonics, recently performed with the Novosibirsk free electron laser (NovoFEL) is given. Parameters of NovoFEL radiation and user workstations are described. Considerable attention was paid to the development and testing of quasi-optical elements designed for this range and to methods for the formation of powerful beams of terahertz radiation with a given mode composition. The use of terahertz radiation in the spectroscopy of gases and semiconductors, in generation and study of surface plasmon polaritons, as well as the use of the latter for the study of surfaces and in communication applications is described.
EXISTING APPROACHES TO DETERMINING THE MOTION PARAMETERS OF ARTIFICIAL EARTH SATELLITES
Authors: Krylov Vladimir C. , Tomilov Andrey C. , Tolstikov Alexander C.
Published: October 2020

The article presents existing approaches to determining the motion parameters of artificial earth satellites. For ephemeris-ballistic support, this problem is reduced to solving a system of algebraic equations. In conditions of insufficient results of trajectory measurements from unquestioned measuring stations located on a limited area of the Earth's surface, and taking into account factors that affect the accuracy of pseudo-long-range measurements, the system of algebraic equations has an imperfectly defined right side. To improve the accuracy of trajectory measurements, it is proposed to use modern methods of processing the results of indirect measurements. The most effective method for improving the conditionality of the matrix of the specified system is the method of "instrumental variables".
MODERN CHALLENGES AND PROBLEMS OF SCIENTIFIC-TECHNOLOGICAL AND INNOVATIVE DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Ananich Marina I.
Published: October 2020

The article discusses the priorities and goals of state policy in the scientific and innovation sphere, problems and prospects of promoting innovation in regions on the example of the Novosibirsk region. Failure analysis of innovative projects and companies is carried out. On the example of successful practices, approaches to the development of innovations and their promotion are considered. The influence of the external environment of innovative development on the search for tools and models for project management, including uncertainty and dynamism, is examined.
ANALOG PHASE SHIFTERS OF THE DECIMETER RANGE FOR INCREASED POWER LEVEL
Authors: Aubakirov Konstantin Ya. , Makeev Alexander V.
Published: October 2020

The results of designing a phase control device in the decimeter wavelength range in the form of a tunable bandpass filter are presented. Tuning such a filter by 1/2 of the relative bandwidth, not exceeding 40 - 50%, provides a frequency-independent controlled phase shift. The minimization of parasitic amplitude modulation, along with an increase in the high-frequency power transmitted by the phase shifter, is achieved by optimizing the switching factor of the varicap into the quasi-polynomial bandpass filter circuit.
Digital Kelsoism: Employee Stock Ownership as a Pattern for the Online Economy
Authors: Schneider Nathan
Published: October 2020

Louis Kelso’s Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) became a feature of US employment law in 1974, and since then it has enabled millions of people to benefit from an ownership stake in their workplaces. But Kelso, together with his collaborator Patricia Hetter Kelso, envisioned much more than the ESOP. They proposed a series of similarly structured plans that involved leveraged financing for broad-based ownership among stakeholders beyond just the employment relationship, situated in a distinct theory of political economy.This essay argues that Kelso and Kelso’s proposals deserve reconsideration in an age of the increasingly dominant online economy. Although first envisioned in another time, they anticipate frequent anxieties and ambitions surrounding digital networks, from gig work and big data to universal basic income. The proposals also come with financing mechanisms and policy tools that, as with the ESOP, could make them scalable and self-perpetuating. The essay reconsiders several Kelsoist strategies in light of the digital economy and addresses concerns from critical research on the ESOP legacy.
Tingkat Kepuasan Siswa Terhadap Menu Makanan yang Disajikan dalam Penyelenggaraan Makanan di SMP Islam Terpadu Al- Fahmi Kota Palu 2019
Authors: Nurjaya  , Aslinda Wery , Kasmawati
Published: October 2020

The provision of food service plays an important role in achieving optimal students health status in school. The purpose of this study is to determine the level of student satisfaction with food menus served in the organization of food at the Al-Fahmi Integrated Islamic Middle School in Palu City 2019. This research is a type of qualitative research with a descriptive approach. The sample in this study was the total of the population, namely all students in grades 7 and 8, amounting to 95 people in the Al Fahmi Integrated Islamic Middle School in Palu City. Data analysis used was univariate analysis. Data analysis began with transcripts and in-depth interviews. The results of this study indicate that of the 95 respondents, 91.6% expressed satisfaction with the taste of the food served. 89.5% expressed satisfaction with the appearance of the food served, 78.9% expressed satisfaction with the portion of food served, 94.7% expressed satisfaction with the level of maturity of the food served, 87.4% expressed satisfaction with the cleanliness of the food served. The conclusion of this study was that respondents were satisfied with the food served at the Al-Fahmi Integrated Islamic Middle School in Paluri City. Suggestions from this study should make students' dining rooms and divide portions of food so that all students get equally even portions of food.
Hubungan Kebiasaan Olahraga, Rasio Lingkar Pinggang Pinggul, dan Kebiasaan Merokok dengan Kadar Kolesterol Total Pasien Poliklinik Jantung
Authors: Lestari Reni Purnama Indah , Harna  , Novianti Anugrah
Published: October 2020

High cholesterol levels constitute 56% of the factors that contribute greatly to the cause of CHD. Coronary heart disease (CHD) is a disease of the heart and blood vessels caused by narrowing of the coronary arteries. The purpose of this study to analyze the relationship of sports habits, circumference waist hip ratio, consumption pattern, level of fiber adequacy, and smoking habits with total cholesterol levels heart policlinic patients RSUD Banten. This type of research uses a cross sectional design, with a sample of 96 respondents namely heart policlinic patients. Analysis of the data used in this study is the Chi-square test. The Results show Respondents with normal nutritional status were 66.70%, respondents who consumed cholesterol-lowering drugs were 55.2%. Respondents with normal cholesterol levels were 53.10%, respondents with exercise habits were 56.25%, respondents with RLPP were at a risk of 71.87%. Respondents did not smoke as much as 66.70%. There was a relationship between exercise habits, hip waist circumference ratio, to total cholesterol levels (p <0.05). There is no relationship between smoking habits on total cholesterol levels (p> 0.05). This study concluded that the sports habits, RLPP, affect total cholesterol levels, while smoking does not affect total cholesterol levels.
Analisis Unit Cost pada Menu Makanan yang Disajikan dalam Penyelenggaraan Makanan di SD/SMP Islam Terpadu Al-Fahmi Kota Palu
Authors: Nurjaya Nurjaya , Ketrin Ketrin , Irawati Irawati
Published: October 2020

Unit cost calculation plays an important role in the effectiveness and efficiency of an organization's budget. The purpose of this research is to analyze the unit cost in the food menu served in the organization of food in the Al-Fahmi Integrated Islamic Elementary / Middle School in Palu City. This type of research used in this research is a quantitative study with descriptive approach with interview techniques and sample collection in this study is the entire menu of food served at SD / SMP IT Al-Fahmi, Palu City. The results showed that the implementation of food in SD / SMP IT Al-Fahmi Palu City is serving 1027 consumers, with 5 days menu cycle, there is a standard menu / recipe, and the prevailing food unit price is the market price. The available workforce is 24 people, aspects of labor costs consisting of salaries, incentive costs, transportation, and health benefits. Overhead costs consist of fixed costs with goods that use 3 years, 10 years and 15 years. Variable costs are consumables, electricity and fuel and depreciation. So that the obtained cost of food per person per day is Rp.9,661.83, -, labor costs per person per day is Rp.1,982.91, overhead costs per person per day is 265.73, -, unit cost at Rp.14,012.31 / person / days, and profit is Rp. 2,101.84, - / person / day. It is expected that the calculated unit cost can be considered in budget planning so that effectiveness and efficiency can be increased.
Influence of Climate Variability on Soybean Yield in MATOPIBA, Brazil
Authors: Reis Layara , Santos e Silva Cláudio Moisés , Bezerra Bergson , Mutti Pedro , Spyrides Maria Helena , Silva Pollyanne , Magalhães Thaynar , Ferreira Rosaria , Rodrigues Daniele , Andrade Lara
Published: October 2020

The objective of this study was to analyze the influence of large-scale atmospheric–oceanic mechanisms (El Niño–Southern Oscillation—ENSO and the inter-hemispheric thermal gradient of the Tropical Atlantic) on the spatial–temporal variability of soy yield in MATOPIBA. The following, available in the literature, were used: (i) daily meteorological data from 1980 to 2013 (Xavier et al., 2016); (ii) (chemical, physical, and hydric) properties of the predominant soil class in the area of interest, available at the World Inventory of Soil Emission Potentials platform; (iii) genetic coefficients of soybean cultivar with Relative Maturity Group adapted to the conditions of the region. The simulations were performed using the CROPGRO-Soybean culture model of the Decision Support System for Agrotechnology Transfer (DSSAT) system, considering sowing dates between the months of October and December of 33 agricultural years, as well as for three meteorological scenarios (climatology, favorable-wet, and unfavorable-dry). Results showed that the different climate scenarios can alter the spatial patterns of agricultural risk. In the favorable-wet scenario, there was a greater probability of an increase in yield and a greater favorable window for sowing soybean, while in the unfavorable-dry scenario these values were lower. However, considering the unfavorable-dry scenario, in some areas the reduction in yield losses will depend on the chosen planting date.
Effect of Natural Forest Fires on Regional Weather Conditions in Siberia
Authors: Kirsanov Alexander , Rozinkina Inna , Rivin Gdaliy , Zakharchenko Denis , Olchev Alexander
Published: October 2020

Effects of forest fires on regional weather conditions were analyzed for Central and Eastern Siberia after warm and dry weather conditions in summer 2019 using COSMO-Ru (COnsortium for Small-scale MOdeling; Ru—Russia) and COSMO-RuART (ART—Aerosols and Reactive Trace gases) model systems. Four series of numerical experiments were conducted (one control experiment and three forest fire experiments assuming total vegetation destruction within the burned areas) to evaluate possible effects of forest fires on surface albedo and vegetation properties as well as their influence on air chemistry and aerosol concentration in the atmosphere. The modeling results showed significant influence of forest fires on regional weather conditions that occurred over large areas situated even away from burnt regions. Decreased surface albedo and reduced latent heat fluxes due to fire-induced destruction of forest cover lead to higher near-surface air temperature and lower air humidity in both burned and surrounding unburned forest areas. On the other hand, reduced incoming solar radiation due to smoke from forest fire plumes decreased land surface temperatures and increased thermal atmospheric stability resulting in reduced regional precipitation.
SFCE-RAPIRI Phase I Study of Rapamycin Plus Irinotecan: A New Way to Target Intra-Tumor Hypoxia in Pediatric Refractory Cancers
Authors: Jannier Sarah , Kemmel Véronique , Sebastia Sancho Consuelo , Chammas Agathe , Sabo Amelia-Naomie , Pencreach Erwan , Farace Françoise , Chenard Marie Pierre , Lhermitte Benoit , Geoerger Birgit , Aerts Isabelle , Frappaz Didier , Leblond Pierre , André Nicolas , Ducassou Stephane , Corradini Nadège , Bertozzi Anne Isabelle , Guérin Eric , Vincent Florence , Velten Michel , Entz-Werle Natacha
Published: October 2020

Hypoxic environment is a prognostic factor linked in pediatric cancers to a worse outcome, favoring tumor progression and resistance to treatments. The activation of mechanistic Target Of Rapamycin (mTor)/hypoxia inducible factor (HIF)-1 pathway can be targeted by rapamycin and irinotecan, respectively. Therefore, we designed a phase I trial associating both drugs in pediatric refractory/relapsing solid tumors. Patients were enrolled according to a 3 + 3 escalation design with ten levels, aiming to determine the MTD (maximum tolerated dose) of rapamycin plus irinotecan. Rapamycin was administered orally once daily in a 28-day cycle (1 to 2.5 mg/m2/day), associating biweekly intravenous irinotecan (125 to 240 mg/m2/dose). Toxicities, pharmacokinetics, efficacy analyses, and pharmacodynamics were evaluated. Forty-two patients, aged from 2 to 18 years, were included. No MTD was reached. Adverse events were mild to moderate. Only rapamycin doses of 1.5 mg/m2/day reached over time clinically active plasma concentrations. Tumor responses and prolonged stable disease were associated with a mean irinotecan area under the curve of more than 400 min.mg/L. Fourteen out of 31 (45.1%) patients had a non-progressive disease at 8 weeks. Most of them were sarcomas and brain tumors. For the phase II trial, we can then propose biweekly 125 mg/m2 irinotecan dose with a pharmacokinetic (PK) follow-up and a rapamycin dose of 1.5 mg/m2/day, reaching a blood concentration above 10 g/L.
Impact of MYC on Anti-Tumor Immune Responses in Aggressive B Cell Non-Hodgkin Lymphomas: Consequences for Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: de Jonge A. Vera , Mutis Tuna , Roemer Margaretha G. M. , Scheijen Blanca , Chamuleau Martine E. D.
Published: October 2020

Patients with MYC overexpressing high grade B cell lymphoma (HGBL) face significant dismal prognosis after treatment with standard immunochemotherapy regimens. Recent preclinical studies indicate that MYC not only contributes to tumorigenesis by its effects on cell proliferation and differentiation, but also plays an important role in promoting escape from anti-tumor immune responses. This is of specific interest, since reversing tumor immune inhibition with immunotherapy has shown promising results in the treatment of both solid tumors and hematological malignancies. In this review, we outline the current understanding of impaired immune responses in B cell lymphoid malignancies with MYC overexpression, with a particular emphasis on diffuse large B cell lymphoma. We also discuss clinical consequences of MYC overexpression in the treatment of HGBL with novel immunotherapeutic agents and potential future treatment strategies.
Specific Effects of Trabectedin and Lurbinectedin on Human Macrophage Function and Fate—Novel Insights
Authors: Povo-Retana Adrián , Mojena Marina , Stremtan Adrian B. , Fernández-García Victoria B. , Gómez-Sáez Ana , Nuevo-Tapioles Cristina , Molina-Guijarro José M. , Avendaño-Ortiz José , Cuezva José M. , López-Collazo Eduardo , Martínez-Leal Juan F. , Boscá Lisardo
Published: October 2020

Background: Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) play a crucial role in suppressing the immunosurveillance function of the immune system that prevents tumor growth. Indeed, macrophages can also be targeted by different chemotherapeutic agents improving the action over immune checkpoints to fight cancer. Here we describe the effect of trabectedin and lurbinectedin on human macrophage cell viability and function. Methods: Blood monocytes from healthy donors were differentiated into macrophages and exposed to different stimuli promoting functional polarization and differentiation into tumor-associated macrophages. Cells were challenged with the chemotherapeutic drugs and the effects on cell viability and function were analyzed. Results: Human macrophages exhibit at least two different profiles in response to these drugs. One-fourth of the blood donors assayed (164 individuals) were extremely sensitive to trabectedin and lurbinectedin, which promoted apoptotic cell death. Macrophages from other individuals retained viability but responded to the drugs increasing reactive oxygen production and showing a rapid intracellular calcium rise and a loss of mitochondrial oxygen consumption. Cell-membrane exposure of programmed-death ligand 1 (PD-L1) significantly decreased after treatment with therapeutic doses of these drugs, including changes in the gene expression profile of hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF-1α)-dependent genes, among other. Conclusions: The results provide evidence of additional onco-therapeutic actions for these drugs.
Risks of Solid and Lymphoid Malignancies in Patients with Myeloproliferative Neoplasms: Clinical Implications
Authors: Brabrand Mette , Frederiksen Henrik
Published: October 2020

In the past decade, several studies have reported that patients with chronic myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) have an increased risk of second solid cancer or lymphoid hematological cancer. In this qualitative review study, we present results from studies that report on these cancer risks in comparison to cancer incidences in the general population or a control group. Our literature search identified 12 such studies published in the period 2009–2018 including analysis of more than 65,000 patients. The results showed that risk of solid cancer is 1.5- to 3.0-fold elevated and the risk of lymphoid hematological cancer is 2.5- to 3.5-fold elevated in patients with MPNs compared to the general population. These elevated risks apply to all MPN subtypes. For solid cancers, particularly risks of skin cancer, lung cancer, thyroid cancer, and kidney cancer are elevated. The largest difference in cancer risk between patients with MPN and the general population is seen in patients below 80 years. Cancer prognosis is negatively affected due to cardiovascular events, thrombosis, and infections by a concurrent MPN diagnosis mainly among patients with localized cancer. Our review emphasizes that clinicians caring for patients with MPNs should be aware of the very well-documented increased risk of second non-myeloid cancers.
Modeling Adipogenesis: Current and Future Perspective
Authors: Bahmad Hisham F. , Daouk Reem , Azar Joseph , Sapudom Jiranuwat , Teo Jeremy C. M. , Abou-Kheir Wassim , Al-Sayegh Mohamed
Published: October 2020

Adipose tissue is contemplated as a dynamic organ that plays key roles in the human body. Adipogenesis is the process by which adipocytes develop from adipose-derived stem cells to form the adipose tissue. Adipose-derived stem cells’ differentiation serves well beyond the simple goal of producing new adipocytes. Indeed, with the current immense biotechnological advances, the most critical role of adipose-derived stem cells remains their tremendous potential in the field of regenerative medicine. This review focuses on examining the physiological importance of adipogenesis, the current approaches that are employed to model this tightly controlled phenomenon, and the crucial role of adipogenesis in elucidating the pathophysiology and potential treatment modalities of human diseases. The future of adipogenesis is centered around its crucial role in regenerative and personalized medicine.
Alternative Splicing: Recent Insights into Mechanisms and Functional Roles
Authors: Ghigna Claudia , Paronetto Maria Paola
Published: October 2020

Alternative splicing generates multiple protein isoforms from one primary transcript and represents one of the major drivers of proteomic diversity in human cells [...]
Osteogenic and Antibacterial Activity of a Plasma-Sprayed CeO2 Coating on a Titanium (Ti)-Based Dental Implant
Authors: Yue Jing , Jin Zhichun , Poon Hin Lok Enoch , Shang Guangwei , Liu Haixia , Wang Dan , Qi Shengcai , Chen Fubo , Xu Yuanzhi
Published: October 2020

Peri-implantitis, often induced by oral pathogens, is one of the main reasons for the clinical failure of dental implants. The aim of this study was to investigate the biocompatibility, osteogeneic, and antibacterial properties of a cerium oxide (CeO2) coating containing high proportions of Ce4+ valences on a titanium-based dental implant biomaterial, Ti-6Al-4V. MC3T3-E1 cells or bone marrow stem cells (BMSCs) were seeded onto Ti-6Al-4V disks with or without CeO2 coating. Compared to the control, the plasma-sprayed CeO2 coating showed enhanced cell viability based on cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) and flow cytometry assays. CCK-8, colony-forming unit test (CFU), and live-dead staining illustrated the antibacterial activity of CeO2 coating. Additionally, CeO2 coating upregulated the gene expression levels of osteogenic markers ALP, Bsp and Ocn, with a similar increase in protein expression levels of OCN and Smad 1 in both MC3T3-E1 cells and BMSCs. More importantly, the viability and proliferation of Enterococcus faecalis, Prevotella intermedia, and Porphyromonas gingivalis were significantly decreased on the CeO2-coated Ti-6Al-4V surfaces compared to non-treated Ti-6Al-4V. In conclusion, the plasma-sprayed CeO2 coating on the surface of Ti-6Al-4V exhibited strong biocompatibility, antibacterial, and osteogenic characteristics, with potential for usage in coated dental implant biomaterials for prevention of peri-implantitis.
The Effect of Carbon Ink Rheology on Ink Separation Mechanisms in Screen-Printing
Authors: Potts Sarah-Jane , Phillips Chris , Claypole Tim , Jewell Eifion
Published: October 2020

Screen-printable carbon-based inks are available in a range of carbon morphologies and concentrations, resulting in various rheological profiles. There are challenges in obtaining a good print when high loading and elasticity functional inks are used, with a trade-off often required between functionality and printability. There is a limited understanding of how ink rheology influences the ink deposition mechanism during screen-printing, which then affects the print topography and therefore electrical performance. High speed imaging was used with a screen-printing simulation apparatus to investigate the effect of viscosity of a graphite and carbon-black ink at various levels of solvent dilution on the deposition mechanisms occurring during screen-printing. With little dilution, the greater relative volume of carbon in the ink resulted in a greater tendency towards elastic behavior than at higher dilutions. During the screen-printing process this led to the ink splitting into filaments while remaining in contact with both the mesh and substrate simultaneously over a greater horizonal length. The location of separating filaments corresponded with localized film thickness increases in the print, which led to a higher surface roughness (Sz). This method could be used to make appropriate adjustments to ink rheology to overcome print defects related to poor ink separation.
Laser Surface Nitriding of Ti–6Al–4V Alloy in Nitrogen–Argon Atmospheres
Authors: Li Guang , Yao Xiaochun , Wood Richard James , Guo Jinchang , Shi Yu
Published: October 2020

Surface-nitrided layers of Ti–6Al–4V alloy were fabricated using a diode laser in pure and mixed gas atmospheres of nitrogen and argon. The surface morphology, microstructure, hardness, and cracks of the nitrided layers were investigated. In all gas atmospheres, the layers showed smooth and humped regions, and consisted of planar nitrogen titanium (TiN), dendrites, and acicular martensite. The surface roughness was improved dramatically as the nitrogen concentration of the atmosphere was diluted with argon. Overall, the hardness of the nitrided layer was greatest for pure nitrogen and it tended to decrease as the concentration of argon in the atmosphere increased. However, the hardness of the layer for pure nitrogen also decreased rapidly, from the surface to matrix, in comparison to the diluted nitrogen atmospheres. It was shown that the number and size of dendrites, which determine hardness, are controlled by the nitrogen concentration. The dendrites of the nitrided layer were denser and smaller in a pure nitrogen atmosphere, than in diluted nitrogen atmospheres. Longitudinal and transverse cracks were observed in the nitrided layers. These two types of cracks were decreased or even eliminated as the argon concentration of the nitrogen–argon atmosphere was increased. Therefore, by diluting the nitrogen atmosphere with argon, the nitrided layer properties, in terms of surface roughness and cracks, can be improved, but this may also cause a reduction in the layer hardness.
Temperature-Independent Cuprate Pseudogap from Planar Oxygen NMR
Authors: Nachtigal Jakob , Avramovska Marija , Erb Andreas , Pavićević Danica , Guehne Robin , Haase Jürgen
Published: October 2020

Planar oxygen nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) relaxation and shift data from all cuprate superconductors available in the literature are analyzed. They reveal a temperature-independent pseudogap at the Fermi surface, which increases with decreasing doping in family-specific ways, i.e., for some materials, the pseudogap is substantial at optimal doping while for others it is nearly closed at optimal doping. The states above the pseudogap, or in its absence are similar for all cuprates and doping levels, and Fermi liquid-like. If the pseudogap is assumed exponential it can be as large as about 1500 K for the most underdoped systems, relating it to the exchange coupling. The pseudogap can vary substantially throughout a material, being the cause of cuprate inhomogeneity in terms of charge and spin, so consequences for the NMR analyses are discussed. This pseudogap appears to be in agreement with the specific heat data measured for the YBaCuO family of materials, long ago. Nuclear relaxation and shift show deviations from this scenario near Tc, possibly due to other in-gap states.
Quantum Measurements with, and Yet without an Observer
Authors: Sokolovski Dmitri
Published: October 2020

It is argued that Feynman’s rules for evaluating probabilities, combined with von Neumann’s principle of psycho-physical parallelism, help avoid inconsistencies, often associated with quantum theory. The former allows one to assign probabilities to entire sequences of hypothetical Observers’ experiences, without mentioning the problem of wave function collapse. The latter limits the Observer’s (e.g., Wigner’s friend’s) participation in a measurement to the changes produced in material objects, thus leaving his/her consciousness outside the picture.
Numerical Investigation of Top-Coal Migration in the First Coal-Drawing Process by an FDM–DEM Coupling Method
Authors: Huo Yuming , Song Xuanmin , Zhu Defu
Published: October 2020

In Longwall Top-Coal Caving (LTCC), the shape of the loose body (LB) and top-coal boundary (TCB) formed after the first coal-drawing are the initial conditions for the common coal-drawing period. Taking the Panel 12309 in Wangjialing coal mine as the research object, the weight of the blocks of caved top coal was measured on-site, and the distribution of their equivalent diameter was calculated. By using a coupled numerical method, the “Finite difference method (FDM)–Discrete element method (DEM)” numerical model was established, and the evolutions of the drawing body (DB), LB, and TCB were obtained. The results show that, in the initial stage of first coal-drawing (0–8.09 s), the amount of DB reached its maximum of 7.18 m3 (0.89 m3/s) and then decreased to a stable value of 0.44 m3/s. The relationships between the characteristic parameters of DB, LB, and TCB and the drawing time were fitted. Taking the second derivative of each parameter with respect to time as its sensitivity (η), it was concluded that due to the large coal-drawing volume in the initial stage (0–8.09 s), the values of the above parameters increased, and the sensitivities reached 6.02 × 10−3, 3.09 × 10−3, and 6.99 × 10−3, respectively. Here, the top-coal migration rule in the first coal-drawing process was revealed from the perspectives of DB, LB, and TCB, thus providing a theoretical basis for the further study of common coal-drawing processes.