bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Leaf gas exchange and chlorophyll index in guava fertirrigated with bovine biofertilizer and nitrogen
Authors: Santana Elisson Alves , Gomes Francisco Eduardo dos Santos , Lobo Jackson Teixeira , Soares Filho Alberto de Andrade , Cavalcante Ítalo Herbert Lucena , Paiva Neto Vespasiano Borges de
Published: August 2020

The objective of this work was to evaluate the influence of fertirrigation with nitrogen and liquid bovine biofertilizer on gas exchange and leaf chlorophyll index of 'paluma' guava (Psidium guajava L.). The experimental design was randomized blocks with treatments distributed in a factorial arrangement (2 × 4) referring to mineral fertilizing with N (50% and 100% of N recommended) and biofertilizer concentrations (0, 2.5, 5.0 and 7.5% of the fertirrigated volume). Variables evaluated were chlorophyll a (Chl a), chlorophyll b (Chl b), total chlorophyll indexes (Chltotal), internal CO2 concentration (Ci), stomatal conductance (gs), transpiration (E), net photosynthesis (A), instant carboxylation efficiency (iCE) and water use efficiency (WUE). The biofertilizer significantly affected Chl a, Chl b, Chltotal, A, gs and E, with quadratic polynomial adjustment of the results. However, there was no effect of N fertilization and interaction between the factors. Maximum index of Chltotal was 32.31 obtained with the estimated dose of 3.8% of the biofertilizer; while A, gs and E presented maximum responses of 19.09 µmol of CO2 m-2 s-1, 0.28 mol of H2O m-2 s-1 and 4.93 mmol of H2O m-2 s-1, with estimated doses of 3.6%, 3.6%, and 3.7%, respectively. Generally, liquid bovine biofertilizer applied via fertirrigation affects positively the photosynthetic responses in 'paluma' guava, however, with decreasing effects for doses above 3.8%.
Advocacy no contexto da pandemia da COVID-19: em defesa dos direitos à saúde
Authors: Carvalho Eloá Carneiro , Farias Sheila Nascimento Pereira de , Varella Thereza Christina Mó y Mó Loureiro , Lima Bruno Soares de , Soares Samira Silva Santos , Souza Norma Valéria Dantas de Oliveira
Published: August 2020

Objetivo: Refletir sobre a aplicabilidade dos constructos teóricos do advocacy, na assistência em enfermagem, considerando o contexto da pandemia da COVID-19. Método: Estudo teórico e reflexivo, realizado de maio a junho de 2020, baseado na literatura científica nacional e internacional. Utilizaram-se para análise duas seções teóricas: i) Trabalho de enfermagem alinhado com o princípio da dignidade da pessoa humana; ii) Combate à pandemia da COVID-19 alicerçado no advocacy e na atuação da enfermagem. Resultados: Apresentaram-se os princípios da dignidade da pessoa humana e o direito à saúde; a atuação laboral da enfermagem no contexto da pandemia da COVID-19; o advocacy para a enfermagem; e os desafios e estratégias para garantia do direito à saúde de pacientes/usuários e trabalhadores de enfermagem, no contexto da pandemia da COVID-19, no Brasil. Conclusão: A fim de garantir os direitos fundamentais no contexto da pandemia da COVID-19, a evocação de princípios constitucionais e do advocacy devem ser relevados e, nesse âmbito, o enfermeiro tem papel essencial, por poder engajar-se na defesa da própria saúde, enquanto trabalhador e cidadão, como também no resguardo da saúde de pacientes/usuários, famílias e comunidade em geral.
Presença de patógenos periodontais em placentas de mulheres com pré-eclâmpsia: Revisão de literatura
Authors: Santos Manuelly Pereira de Morais , Barbosa Lívia Mirelle , Fonseca Eduarda Lapenda Gomes da , Lima Caio Henrique Ribeiro de , Silva Thaís Carine Lisboa da , Souza Talita Giselly dos Santos , Pinto Priscilla Sarmento , Negreiros Jhony Herick Cavalcanti Nunes , Gatis Michelly Cauás de Queiroz , Laureano Filho José Rodrigues
Published: August 2020

Objetivo: Explorar os estudos existentes quanto a associação entre a doença periodontal durante gestação e a pré-eclâmpsia, tendo em vista que trabalhos recentes indicam que patógenos periodontais podem se disseminar pelos tecidos fetais e placentários ocasionando efeitos adversos à saúde do binômio mãe-filho. Método: Revisão de literatura realizada por meio de documentos científicos acessados nas bases de dados MEDLINE, SCIELO e LILACS-BIREME, através dos seguintes descritores: doença periodontal, microbiologia, pré-eclâmpsia e complicações da gravidez. A seleção dos estudos foi realizada através da coleta e análise das referências mais importantes sobre o tema proposto. Revisão de literatura: Os dados coletados mostram que a produção e liberação de mediadores inflamatórios decorrentes da lesão no periodonto desempenham também importante papel na patogênese da pré-eclâmpsia, corroborando esta associação. Discussão: Em adição, bactérias periodontais como Porphyromonas gingivalis, Prevotella intermedia, Agregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans e Fusobacterium nucleatum ssp têm sido descritas como participantes do processo de desenvolvimento de pré-eclâmpsia em mulheres grávidas com doença periodontal. Conclusão: O conhecimento sobre os efeitos adversos da pré-eclâmpsia em pacientes com doença periodontal pode sugerir contribuições para um efetivo controle pré-natal com maior atenção aos cuidados odontológicos.
Valor prognóstico do SOX2 em Carcinomas Epidermóides de Cabeça e Pescoço: Revisão sistemática
Authors: Oliveira Francisca Jennifer Duarte de , Costa Lavínia Lourenço , Sousa Lucas Cavalcante de , Amancio Amanda de Medeiros , Silva Gabriel Gomes da , Pinheiro Juliana Campos , Silva Filho Paulo Sérgio Ferreira da , Brasil Giuliana Moura Luz Cordeiro , Jales Juliana Maria Rodrigues , Oliveira Débora Joyce Duarte de , Paiva Daniel Felipe Fernandes
Published: August 2020

Introdução: o carcinoma epidermoide de cabeça e pescoço (CECP) é um tipo de tumor maligno bastante comum no mundo, que possui taxas de sobrevida preocupantes. Portanto, estabelecer biomarcadores, como o SOX2, que está associado a proliferação de células tronco cancerígenas (CTCs), é importante para se detectar precocemente a doença, bem como determinar o prognóstico, auxiliando no tratamento. Objetivo: analisar a atuação do SOX2 como preditor prognóstico para o CECP. Metodologia: trata-se de uma revisão sistemática da literatura realizada nas bases de dados BVS, PUBMED, Web of Science e SCOPUS, a partir da estratégia “SOX2 AND (oral squamous cell carcinoma OR head and neck squamous cell carcinoma) AND (prognosis OR aggressiveness)”. A amostra final foi composta por 19 artigos. Resultados: os dados de sobrevida demonstraram divergência entre os trabalhos: 10 estudos concluíram que a maior expressão de SOX2 associa-se a bom prognóstico, enquanto 8 concluíram o oposto. 1 artigo não apontou relação entre esses fatores. Foram analisados dados sobre ocorrência de metástases, transição epitelial mesenquimal, proliferação e invasão tumoral, resultado a radioterapia, grau, diferenciação e tamanho do tumor, sendo os apontamentos divergentes entre estudos. Conclusão: os achados clínicos apontam relações existentes entre SOX2 e o CECP, todavia, não de forma conclusiva. Assim, a literatura não respalda o uso de SOX2 como preditor prognóstico, reforçando a necessidade de elucidar os mecanismos e vias moleculares através das quais SOX2 influencia a progressão do câncer.
Efeitos adversos do uso prolongado de anti-inflamatórios não esteroidais inibidores da COX-2 em equinos: revisão
Authors: Santos Júnior Dinamérico de Alencar , Oliveira Filho Emanuel Felipe de , Miranda Neto Eldinê Gomes de , Escodro Pierre Barnabé
Published: August 2020

Os antiinflamatórios não esteroidais (AINE's), por serem comercializados, suprimidos-se entre os medicamentos mais prescritos no mundo, possuindo ação anti-inflamatória, analgésica e antipirética por inibição das prostaglandinas mediante bloqueio das cicloxigenases (COX). Atualmente sabe-se da existência de três enzimas COX com ações distintas. Postulou-se que as propriedades farmacológicas dos AINE's decorrem principalmente da ação inibitória da COX-2, enquanto que as reações adversas são geradas da inibição da COX-1, criando subgrupos de AINE's: preferenciais, seletivos e não seletivos para COX-2. A introdução dos inibidores da COX-2 na prática clínica visa manter a eficácia antiinflamatória sem os efeitos adversos indesejáveis. Todavia, estudos comprovados toxidade associada ao seu uso. Objetivou-se com este trabalho levantar informações sobre os efeitos do uso prolongado de inibidores da COX-2 na espécie de AINE. Para isso, foi realizada uma revisão bibliográfica buscando estudos sobre os efeitos do uso de inibidores da COX-2 em cavalos. Foi observado que esta classe de medicamentos diversos efeitos tóxicos para uma espécie, principalmente em situações onde existiram sobredosagens, uso por tempo prolongado e associação com outros AINE's. São necessárias para o controle de comercialização desses fármacos. A escolha do fármaco no tratamento deve ser individualizada a cada paciente, levando em consideração seus fatores de risco e benefícios. Seu uso de forma racional é um importante aliado dos clínicos veterinários na promoção da saúde e bem-estar-animal.
Activity Antioxidant on Pigments of Bacterial Symbionts of Soft Coral From Jepara Sea
Authors: Masduqi Ahmad Fuad , Franyoto Yuvianto Dwi , Kusmita Lia , Muchlisin Sakti , Widyananto Prasetyo Abi , Sulistyani Sulistyani , Wijayanti Diah Permata
Published: August 2020

Soft corals have been known to produce secondary metabolites, some of which may have anticancer, antifouling, antibacterial and antioxidants activity. It has been suggested that natural products from marine invertebrates have striking similarities to metabolites of their association microorganisms. Symbiont bacteria on soft coral can produce bioactive compounds that play an important role in chemical ecology and as a marine natural product. Marine bacteria associated with soft coral collected from Jepara were successfully isolated on medium ZoBell 2216E and screened to synthesize the pigment. This approach has allowed the use of this organism as an environmentally friendly alternative source of new natural pigment. This study found 25 bacterial isolates from 6 types of soft coral. Out of 25 bacterial isolates, only 3 bacterium, positively contains pigments. Four isolates, PCl 1, PS2 1, and PSa 2. Pigments analysis with UV spectrophotometric method showed the wavelength of pigments were in the range 300-600 nm. Genomic DNA was isolated from these colonies and nested PCR of the DNA was performed to amplify the 16S rDNA. Antioxidant activity was tested with the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) method. From the results of molecular identification by 16S rDNA method, it was shown that bacterium PCl 1, PS2 1, and PSa 2 was closely related to Pseudomonas stutzeri, Ponticoccus gilvus, Bacillus marisflavi with 99%, 99and 98% homology value. Antioxidant activity is as follows: PCl 1>PS2 1>PSA 2.
AI-assisted inventions in the field of drug discovery: readjusting the obviousness analysis
Authors: Gurgula (Ph.D., LLM) Dr Olga
Published: August 2020

Artificial intelligence (‘AI’) is increasingly applied at all stages of drug discovery. While AI has the potential to boost innovation, it also raises many important ethical, social, political, and legal issues. Among the latter are the challenges that AI poses for the patent system. With the rapid evolution of AI technologies and the increase in their computational power, the process of inventing has undergone substantial changes. As AI significantly expands human capabilities, inventions that were previously the result of human ingenuity, perseverance or serendipity can now be achieved by routine experimentations with the use of AI.
This article argues, therefore, that the patent law approaches that were developed to assess human-generated inventions are not suitable for AI-assisted inventions and requires urgent reconsideration. It will explain that the proper test for the obviousness assessment needs to take into account the advancement of AI technology and will provide suggestions on how the analysis can be modified.
СКЛАД АДМІНІСТРАТИВНОГО ПРАВОПОРУШЕННЯ ШОДО ПОРУШЕННЯ ПРАВИЛ КАРАНТИНУ ЛЮДЕЙ
Authors: М. А. Самбор
Published: August 2020

У статті досліджується склад адміністративного правопорушення за ст. 443 Кодексу України про адміністративні правопорушення, якою доповнено Кодекс законом України від 17 березня 2020 року. В умовах світової та всеукраїнської соціальних криз, зумовлених поширенням коронавірусної інфекції, що загрожує життю і здоров’ю людей, Верховною Радою України запроваджено адміністративну відповідальність за порушення правил щодо карантину людей. Нормі ст. 443 КУпАП з часу розробки законопроекту не притаманні правова визначеність, зрозумілість. Аналіз складу цього адміністративного правопорушення дійти висновку про неоднозначність сприйняття законності ухвалення органами місцевого самоврядування відповідних обмежень, недотримання яких тягне адміністративну відповідальність за вказаною статтею. Крім того, з’ясовано, що запроваджені зміни до КУпАП створили конкуренцію норм Загальної та Особливої частин КУпАП. Невдало викладена норма створює непорозуміння й у з’ясуванні суб’єкта правопорушення. Доцільно було б розмежувати адміністративну відповідальність фізичних осіб та посадових осіб суб’єктів господарювання. У статті досліджується склад адміністративного правопорушення за ст. 443 Кодексу України про адміністративні правопорушення, якою доповнено Кодекс законом України від 17 березня 2020 року. В умовах світової та всеукраїнської соціальних криз, зумовлених поширенням коронавірусної інфекції, що загрожує життю і здоров’ю людей, Верховною Радою України запроваджено адміністративну відповідальність за порушення правил щодо карантину людей. Нормі ст. 443 КУпАП з часу розробки законопроекту не притаманні правова визначеність, зрозумілість. Аналіз складу цього адміністративного правопорушення дійти висновку про неоднозначність сприйняття законності ухвалення органами місцевого самоврядування відповідних обмежень, недотримання яких тягне адміністративну відповідальність за вказаною статтею. Крім того, з’ясовано, що запроваджені зміни до КУпАП створили конкуренцію норм Загальної та Особливої частин КУпАП. Невдало викладена норма створює непорозуміння й у з’ясуванні суб’єкта правопорушення. Доцільно було б розмежувати адміністративну відповідальність фізичних осіб та посадових осіб суб’єктів господарювання.
Do Democratic Principles Constrain the Effectiveness of Elite Cues on Election Rules?
Authors: McCarthy Devin
Published: August 2020

The public’s perception of the fairness of an election rule is an important determinant of popular support for that rule. Thus, the public’s fairness principles might act as a constraint on party elite attempts to manipulate election rules for their own electoral benefit. However, if party elites are able to influence what the public considers fair, the effectiveness of this constraint would be limited. This paper posits two possible mechanisms by which this elite influence could function. First, elites could change the public’s perception of whether a given fairness principle applies to a given election rule. Second, elites could attempt to directly change which fairness principles people prioritize or endorse. This study tests both mechanisms using survey experiments, finding that elites are able to influence opinion on voting policy issues even when their messages use inapplicable principles. However, elites are unable to directly affect the democratic principles that citizens prioritize.
A Hebrew Exegesis of Isaiah 62:6-9 The Affirmation of Zion’s Future Blessings
Authors: Chia Philip Suciadi , Juanda Juanda
Published: August 2020

The book of Isaiah is really interesting to explore. Many conflicts occurred there, both in relation to God and with other nations. In this study, spiritual, social-ethic and political background will be scrutinized to assist to understand Isaiah chapter 62 comprehensively. Spiritual life of God’s people is declined in the book of Isaiah because of idolatries and nations. Hebrew people make idols out of trees and worship pagan wooden idols (40:18-20; 44:9-20). Not only will God give to His redeemed Zion all that is necessary but in addition, He will appoint watchmen upon her walls that she may receive the utmost in protection. It is clear Isaiah is not exclusively interested in the interpersonal and social relationship structures within Israel. He is also concerned with the broader canvas of international politics. During Isaiah ministry, it was a time of great political turmoil for the nation of Judah because facing the opposition that coming from the north and east.
Multiple Cephalic Malformations in a Calf
Authors: G. Di Muro , G. Cagnotti , C. Bellino , M.T. Capucchio , E. Colombino , A. D’Angelo
Published: August 2020

Congenital malformations of the central nervous system (CNS) can affect the CNS alone or the CNS and craniofacial structures. Here, we report an unusual and complex congenital cephalic malformation observed in a 3-day-old male crossbreed calf. Clinical examination disclosed a dome-shaped cranial vault, a flat face with a short snout, a median cleft lip, and increased intraorbital distance. The frontal region of the head was remarkable for a fluctuant, sac-like protrusion covered with haired skin. Neurologic findings suggested a multifocal intracranial lesion affecting the prosencephalon and the central vestibular system. While pathological and histopathological findings posited for a presumptive diagnosis of either hydranencephaly or holoprosencephaly associated with multiple congenital facial abnormalities, not all the findings could be definitely attributed to either of the two encephalic malformations alone. To our knowledge, a similar combination of severe congenital abnormalities affecting both the CNS and the craniofacial structures has not been reported in calves to date.
Baicalin-Copper Complex Modulates Gut Microbiota, Inflammatory Responses, and Hormone Secretion in DON-Challenged Piglets
Authors: Zha Andong , Cui Zhijuan , Qi Ming , Liao Simeng , Yin Jia , Tan Bie , Liao Peng
Published: August 2020

The present experiment assessed the inflammatory responses, hormone secretion, and gut microbiota of weanling piglets administered baicalin-copper complex (BCU) or deoxynivalenol (DON) supplementation diets. Twenty-eight piglets were randomly assigned to four groups: control diet (Con group), a 4 mg DON/kg diet (DON group), a 5 g BCU/kg diet (BCU group), a 5 g BCU + 4 mg DON/kg diet (DBCU group). After 14 days, the results showed that dietary BCU supplementation remarkably increased the relative abundance of Clostrium bornimense and decreased the relative abundance of Lactobacillus in the DBCU group (p < 0.05). BCU decreased the serum concentration of IgG, IL-2, IFN-γ, and IgA in DON treated piglets (p < 0.05), and promoted the serum concentration of IL-1β, IgG, IL-2, IFN-γ, IgA, IL-6, IgM, and TNFα in normal piglets (p < 0.05). BCU increased the concentrations of serum IGF1, insulin, NPY, GLP-1, and GH, and decreased the concentrations of serum somatostatin in no DON treated piglets (p < 0.05). Dietary BCU supplementation significantly promoted the secretion of somatostatin, and inhibited the secretion of leptin in piglets challenged with DON (p < 0.05). BCU regulated the expression of food intake-related genes in the hypothalamus and pituitary of piglets. Collectively, dietary BCU supplementation alleviated inflammatory responses and regulated the secretion of appetite-regulating hormones and growth-axis hormones in DON challenged piglets, which was closely linked to changes of intestinal microbes.
Effects of Zinc Oxide and Arginine on the Intestinal Microbiota and Immune Status of Weaned Pigs Subjected to High Ambient Temperature
Authors: Yoon Se Young , Sa Soo Jin , Cho Eun Seok , Ko Han Seo , Choi Jung Woo , Kim Jin Soo
Published: August 2020

This study aimed to investigate the effect of the l-arginine (Arg) inclusion and different doses of ZnO on the growth performance, intestinal microbiota and integrity, and immune status of weaned pigs. A total of 180 pigs (28-day-old) were randomly allotted to six treatments with six replicate pens in each treatment and five pigs per pen. The dietary treatments were Con (1.1% Arg); P-Zn (1.1% Arg + 2500 mg Zn as ZnO/kg diet); ARG (1.6% Arg); ZnArg1 (500 mg of Zn as ZnO/kg diet + 1.6% Arg); ZnArg2 (1000 mg of Zn as ZnO/kg diet + 1.6% Arg); ZnArg3 (2500 mg of Zn as ZnO/kg diet + 1.6% Arg). The overall result showed that the inclusion of ZnArg3 significantly improved the average daily gain of pigs compared with the Con treatment. There was a reduction in feed intake in pigs fed the Con diet compared with pigs fed the ZnArg3 diet at phase 1 and overall. At phase 1, pigs fed the ZnArg3 diet and P-Zn diet showed a decreased population of Clostridium spp. in the ileum compared with those of the Con treatment. In addition, a lower ileal Clostridium spp. population was detected in pigs fed the ZnArg2 diet compared with pigs fed the Con diet. The pigs fed ZnArg1 and ZnArg3 diets showed a greater villus height of duodenum compared with the Con and P-Zn treatments. The pigs in the Con treatment showed increased mRNA expression of heat shock protein-27 in the liver compared with the P-Zn, ZnArg1, ZnArg2, and ZnArg3 treatments. When fed the basal diet, mRNA expressions of interleukin-6 were increased in the muscle compared with the ZnArg3 treatment. Dietary supplementation with ZnArg2 decreased the mRNA expressions of interferon-γ in the muscle compared with the Con treatment. Supplementation with P-Zn, ZnArg1, ZnArg2, and ZnArg3 decreased mRNA expressions of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) compared with the Con treatment. The mRNA gene expressions of interleukin-4 were decreased in the jejunum of pigs fed P-Zn, ARG, ZnArg1, ZnArg2, and ZnArg3 diets compared with pigs fed the Con diet. The jejunum gene expression of toll-like receptor-4 was upregulated in the Con and ARG treatments compared with the ZnArg1 and ZnArg3. The ZnArg1, ZnArg2, and ZnArg3 treatments showed lower mRNA expression of TNF-α compared with the Con treatment. In conclusion, there was no difference in growth performance, intestinal microbiota, gene expression of interleukins between ZnArg1 and ZnArg3 treatments. Therefore, the low level of ZnO (500 mg/kg) plus 1.6% dietary Arg may be recommended for pigs during the weaning stress.
Mortality Causes in Free-Ranging Eurasian Brown Bears (Ursus arctos arctos) in Spain 1998–2018
Authors: Balseiro Ana , Royo Luis J. , Gayo Elena , Balsera Ramón , Alarcia Olga , García Marín Juan F.
Published: August 2020

This work summarizes the mortality cases of twenty-five free-ranging Eurasian wild brown bears (Ursus arctos arctos) from the Cantabrian mountain range submitted for necropsy in Asturias and Castilla y León (northwestern Spain) from 1998 to 2018. Mortality cases were classified both caused by (i) “non-human intervention” or “human intervention” causes and based on (ii) “non-infectious” or “infectious” etiology. In four cases (16%) it was not possible to determine the cause of death due to the inadequate preservation of collected specimens or insufficient tissue availability. Based on “non-human intervention” or “human intervention” causes, fourteen of the 21 (66.7%) brown bears died as a consequence of “non-human intervention” due to traumatic lesions (fights, unknown traumas or infanticide), infectious canine hepatitis, neoplasia or mushroom poisoning. In contrast, seven (33.3%) brown bears died by “human intervention” due to illegal hunting (shooting or snare), handling (during transit in an attempt to reintroduce a bear back into the wild) or strychnine poisoning. Based on “non-infectious” or “infectious” etiology, twelve of the 21 (57.1%) brown bears died due to “non-infectious” causes, namely traumatic lesions such as shooting, snare, fighting or infanticide, handling, strychnine poisoning, mushroom poisoning or neoplasia. The remaining nine (42.9%) animals died due to “infectious” diseases which included gangrenous myositis, infectious canine hepatitis or septicemia. In six of those cases traumatic lesions caused by non-human or human activities were complicated with bacterial infection (clostridiosis and septicemia) which finally caused the death of those animals. Additionally, exertional myopathy was observed in the handled animal and in one bear found in a snare. In a free-ranging population of Eurasian brown bear from the Cantabrian mountain range, main causes of death are attributed to non-human related traumatic lesions and infectious diseases (primary developed such as infectious canine hepatitis or secondary developed such as clostridiosis or septicemia) which is in contrast to previously reported data for other bear populations. These data are valuable and may help in the conservation and management of this recovering population.
Learning-Assisted Rain Attenuation Prediction Models
Authors: Samad Md Abdus , Choi Dong-You
Published: August 2020

Rain attenuation becomes significant to degrade the earth-space or terrestrial radio link’s signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). So, to maintain the desired SNR level, with the help of fade mitigation techniques (FMTs), it needs to control transmitted signals power considering the expected rainfall. However, since the rain event is a random phenomenon, the rain attenuation that may be experienced by a specific link is difficult to estimate. Many empirical, physical, and compound nature-based models exist in the literature to predict the expected rain attenuation. Furthermore, many optimizations and decision-making functions have become simpler since the development of the learning-assisted (LA) technique. In this work, the LA rain attenuation (LARA) model was classified based on input parameters. Besides, for comparative analysis, each of the supported frequency components of LARA models were tabulated, and an accurate contribution of each model was identified. In contrast to all the currently available LARA models, the accuracy and correlation of input-output parameters are presented. Additionally, it summarizes and discusses open research issues and challenges.
An Innovative Dual-Axis Precision Level Based on Light Transmission and Refraction for Angle Measurement
Authors: Huang Yubin , Fan Yuchao , Lou Zhifeng , Fan Kuang-Chao , Sun Wei
Published: August 2020

Currently, the widely used pendulum-type precision level cannot be miniaturized because reducing the size of the pendulum will reduce its displacement so as to decrease the measurement accuracy and resolution. Moreover, the commercial pendulum-type level can only sense one direction. In this paper, an innovative compact and high-accuracy dual-axis precision level is proposed. Based on the optical principle of light refraction and the reference of the invariant liquid level, the pendulum is no more needed. In addition, based on the light transmission design, there is no reflection signal to interfere with the true signal. Therefore, the level can achieve a high accuracy and small-sized design. The calibration result shows the error of the proposed precision level is better than ±0.6 arc-sec in the measurement range of ±100 arc-sec, and better than ±5 arc-sec in the full measurement range of ±800 arc-sec.
Health and Structural Integrity of Monitoring Systems: The Case Study of Pressurized Pipelines
Authors: Chmelko Vladimír , Garan Martin , Šulko Miroslav , Gašparík Marek
Published: August 2020

In the operation of some structures, particularly in energy or chemical industry where pressurized pipeline systems are employed, certain unexpected critical situations may occur, which must be definitely avoided. Otherwise, such situations would result in undesirable damage to the environment or even the endangerment of human life. For example, the occurrence of such nonstandard states can significantly affect the safety of high-pressure pipeline systems. The following paper discusses basic physical prerequisites for assembling the systems that can sense loading states and monitor the operational safety conditions of pressure piping systems in the long-run. The appropriate monitoring system hardware with cost-effective data management was designed in order to enable the real-time monitoring of operational safety parameters. Furthermore, the paper presents the results obtained from the measurements of existing real-time safety monitoring systems for selected pipeline systems.
Characteristics of Atmospheric Kinetic Energy Spectra during the Intensification of Typhoon Lekima (2019)
Authors: Zheng Hepeng , Zhang Yun , Wang Yuan , Zhang Lifeng , Peng Jun , Liu Saisai , Li Aibing
Published: August 2020

The intensification of Typhoon Lekima (2019) is simulated with the Weather Research and Forecasting model to study the atmospheric horizontal kinetic energy (HKE) spectra and corresponding spectral HKE budgets under the control of real tropical cyclone (TC). The results show that the TC has the ability to modify the canonical atmospheric energy spectrum during its evolution, which is dominated by its rotational mode. With the intensification of Lekima, the HKE spectrum in the troposphere swells over the central mesoscale and develops an arc-like shape. The stronger the TC, the more pronounced the arc-like shape is and the smaller scale it extends to. The roles various physical processes play at different heights and horizontal scales during the intensification of Lekima are investigated and the dependence of the effect of physical processes on scale and height is revealed. Meanwhile, the potential relationship between the intensification of TC, the activation of energy activity at smaller scales, and the downscale extension of the arc-like spectral shape is found.
Determination of Axial Force in Tie Rods of Historical Buildings Using the Model-Updating Technique
Authors: Duvnjak Ivan , Ereiz Suzana , Damjanović Domagoj , Bartolac Marko
Published: August 2020

Tie rods are structural elements that transfer axial tensile loads and are typically used on walls, vaults, arches, and buttresses in historical buildings. To verify their load-bearing capacity and identify possible structural damage risks, the forces transferred by tie rods and the corresponding stresses must be determined. However, this is often a challenging task due to the lack of project documentation for historical buildings. Uncertainties like complex boundary conditions or unknown material and geometrical properties make it hard to assess the tie rods’ load level. This paper presents a methodology for the determination of axial forces in tie rods that combines on-site experimental research and a numerical model-updating technique. Along with the common approach based on a determination of the natural frequency of tie rods, this paper presents an approach based on tie rods’ mode shapes. Special emphasis is placed on the boundary conditions coefficient, which is a crucial parameter in the analytical solution for axial forces determination based on the conducted on-site experiments. The method is applied in a historical building case study.
Assistive Model to Generate Chord Progressions Using Genetic Programming with Artificial Immune Properties
Authors: Navarro-Cáceres María , Merchán Sánchez-Jara Javier Félix , Reis Quietinho Leithardt Valderi , García-Ovejero Raúl
Published: August 2020

In Western tonal music, tension in chord progressions plays an important role in defining the path that a musical composition should follow. The creation of chord progressions that reflects such tension profiles can be challenging for novice composers, as it depends on many subjective factors, and also is regulated by multiple theoretical principles. This work presents ChordAIS-Gen, a tool to assist the users to generate chord progressions that comply with a concrete tension profile. We propose an objective measure capable of capturing the tension profile of a chord progression according to different tonal music parameters, namely, consonance, hierarchical tension, voice leading and perceptual distance. This measure is optimized into a Genetic Program algorithm mixed with an Artificial Immune System called Opt-aiNet. Opt-aiNet is capable of finding multiple optima in parallel, resulting in multiple candidate solutions for the next chord in a sequence. To validate the objective function, we performed a listening test to evaluate the perceptual quality of the candidate solutions proposed by our system. Most listeners rated the chord progressions proposed by ChordAIS-Gen as better candidates than the progressions discarded. Thus, we propose to use the objective values as a proxy for the perceptual evaluation of chord progressions and compare the performance of ChordAIS-Gen with chord progressions generators.
Metal Mobility in Afforested Sites of an Abandoned Zn-Pb Ore Mining Area
Authors: Aleksander-Kwaterczak Urszula , Ciszewski Dariusz
Published: August 2020

Heaps of waste material constitute a serious environmental problem in regions where the historical exploitation and processing of metal ores has taken place. The presented paper describes the trace metal distribution in selected heaps in the lead-zinc mining area of an abandoned mine in Poland, as well as the soil horizons beneath. The study aims at the estimation of the metal remobilization rate in vertical profiles in the spontaneously afforested area in the context of the potential danger it poses to the local groundwater. Individual samples were taken from profiles dug in heaps found in deciduous and coniferous forests. The bulk density, pH, organic matter and carbonate content, as well as the concentration and chemical forms of metals were analysed. Buffer properties and the mineralogical composition were also determined for the selected samples. The investigation indicates excessive cadmium, zinc and lead concentrations in the analysed heap material and the significant secondary enrichment of former soil horizons. A large percentage of these metals occur in potentially mobile forms. It suggests that, despite the high pH of the heap material and the good buffer properties of soil, cadmium and to a lesser extent, zinc, has migrated downwards to depths of at least several dozen centimetres over a period of about 200 years. This is related to soil acidity, particularly in profiles abundant in organic matter resulting from the encroachment of forest communities, particularly of coniferous forest. Spontaneous afforestation forming the litter cover contribute to the stabilization of the heap material and limiting groundwater pollution. Even though specific remediation measures are not needed in this area, it requires long-term monitoring.
Terrain Estimation for Planetary Exploration Robots
Authors: Dimastrogiovanni Mauro , Cordes Florian , Reina Giulio
Published: August 2020

A planetary exploration rover’s ability to detect the type of supporting surface is critical to the successful accomplishment of the planned task, especially for long-range and long-duration missions. This paper presents a general approach to endow a robot with the ability to sense the terrain being traversed. It relies on the estimation of motion states and physical variables pertaining to the interaction of the vehicle with the environment. First, a comprehensive proprioceptive feature set is investigated to evaluate the informative content and the ability to gather terrain properties. Then, a terrain classifier is developed grounded on Support Vector Machine (SVM) and that uses an optimal proprioceptive feature set. Following this rationale, episodes of high slippage can be also treated as a particular terrain type and detected via a dedicated classifier. The proposed approach is tested and demonstrated in the field using SherpaTT rover, property of DFKI (German Research Center for Artificial Intelligence), that uses an active suspension system to adapt to terrain unevenness.
Characterizing the Efficacy of a Film-Forming Antitranspirant on Raspberry Foliar and Fruit Transpiration
Authors: Moroni Francesca J. , Gascon-Aldana Pedro J. , Rogiers Suzy Y.
Published: August 2020

The film-forming antitranspirant, di-1-p-menthene, is able to reduce transpiration in a number of crops, potentially resulting in water savings and improved productivity. The success of the response is, however, dependent on genotype and environmental factors. We aimed to assess the efficacy of this natural terpene polymer on red raspberry (Rubus idaeus, L.) cv. Tulameen leaf water-use efficiency across a 25–40 °C temperature range under controlled conditions. The film reduced transpiration (E) and was most effective when applied to the lower leaf surface. Leaf net assimilation (A) and stomatal conductance (g) were also curtailed after the application of di-1-p-menthene, and as a consequence intrinsic transpiration efficiency (A/g) and instantaneous transpiration efficiency (ratio of net carbon fixation to water loss, A/E) did not improve. At 40 °C, gas exchange of both treated and untreated leaves was minimal due to stomatal closure. The antitranspirant was effective at reducing water loss from berries, but only at the immature stages when transpiration rates were naturally high. Further studies are required to determine if the antitranspirant, di-1-p-menthene, will offer protection against dehydration across a range of temperatures and if productivity and berry composition will benefit.
The Prospective Beneficial Effects of Red Laser Exposure on Lactocaseibacillus casei Fermentation of Skim Milk
Authors: Mohamed Mahmoud S.M. , Elshaghabee Fouad M.F. , Alharbi Sulaiman Ali , El-Hussein Ahmed
Published: August 2020

Probiotic lactic acid bacteria are crucial producers of fermented dairy products that are popular functional foods in many countries. The health benefits of probiotic bacteria are mainly attributed to their effective bioactive metabolites. The quality of fermented milk is mainly dependent on the bacterial strain used in the fermentation process. In this study, an innovative technique is used in order to enhance the activities of the probiotic bacteria, quality of fermented milk, and consequently the whole fermentation process. Red laser dosages, at the wavelength of 632.7 nm, were applied to the type strain Lacticaseibacillus casei NRRL-B-1922 before the fermentation of skim milk. The results revealed that the scavenging of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate (DPPH) radical and total antioxidant capacity were significantly increased from 21% in untreated control to 56% after bacterial laser irradiation of 12 J/cm2 dosage for 40 min. The antioxidant activity was found to be increased as the red laser dosage increased in a dose-response relationship. Additionally, the lactose fermentation in skim milk medium of 43.22 mg/mL initial concentration into organic acids was enhanced after L. casei irradiation and recorded 23.15 mg/mL compared to control group 28.35 mg/mL without bacterial pre-treatment. These results are correlated with increase of the β-Galactosidase activity, where the L. casei that has been exposed to 40 min of red laser exhibited the higher activity of a 0.37 unit/mL relative to the control 0.25 unit/mL. The assessment of this fermented milk after L. casei laser exposure for 10, 20, and 40 min indicates multiple biological effects, including assimilation of cholesterol as well as proteolytic and antibacterial activity. Our data on the exposure of L. casei to laser beam suggest promising application of red laser in the fermentation process of skim milk.
Biological Evaluation of Oxindole Derivative as a Novel Anticancer Agent against Human Kidney Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Dey Prasanta , Kundu Amit , Han Sang Hoon , Kim Kyeong-Seok , Park Jae Hyeon , Yoon Sungpil , Kim In Su , Kim Hyung Sik
Published: August 2020

Renal cell carcinoma has emerged as one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in the USA. Here, we examined the anticancer profile of oxindole derivatives (SH-859) in human renal cancer cells. Targeting 786-O cells by SH-859 inhibited cell growth and affected the protein kinase B/mechanistic target of rapamycin 1 pathway, which in turn downregulated the expression of glycolytic enzymes, including lactate dehydrogenase A and glucose transporter-1, as well as other signaling proteins. Treatment with SH-859 altered glycolysis, mitochondrial function, and levels of adenosine triphosphate and cellular metabolites. Flow cytometry revealed the induction of apoptosis and G0/G1 cell cycle arrest in renal cancer cells following SH-859 treatment. Induction of autophagy was also confirmed after SH-859 treatment by acridine orange and monodansylcadaverine staining, immunocytochemistry, and Western blot analyses. Finally, SH-859 also inhibited the tumor development in a xenograft model. Thus, SH-859 can serve as a potential molecule for the treatment of human renal carcinoma.
Exploring Language Learning as a Potential Tool against Cognitive Impairment in Late-Life Depression: Two Meta-Analyses and Suggestions for Future Research
Authors: Brouwer Jelle , van den Berg Floor , Knooihuizen Remco , Loerts Hanneke , Keijzer Merel
Published: August 2020

Late-life depression (LLD) affects about an eighth of community-dwelling seniors. LLD impacts well-being, with loneliness and small social networks being typical. It has also been linked to cognitive dysfunction and an increased risk of developing dementia. Safety and efficacy of pharmacological treatments for LLD have been debated, and cognitive dysfunction often persists even after remission. Various cognitive interventions have been proposed for LLD. Among these, one has received special attention: foreign language learning could serve as a social intervention that simultaneously targets brain structures affected in LLD. Lifelong bilingualism may significantly delay the onset of cognitive impairment symptoms by boosting cognitive reserve. Even late-life foreign language learning without lifelong bilingualism can train cognitive flexibility. It is then counterintuitive that the effects of language learning on LLD have never been examined. In order to create a theoretical basis for further interdisciplinary research, this paper presents a status quo of current work through two meta-analyses investigating cognitive functioning in LLD on the one hand and in senior bilinguals or seniors following a language course on the other hand. While LLD was consistently associated with cognitive dysfunction, inconsistent results were found for bilingualism and language learners. Possible reasons for this and suggestions for future research are subsequently discussed.
STAT3, the Challenge for Chemotherapeutic and Radiotherapeutic Efficacy
Authors: Yang Ping-Lian , Liu Lu-Xin , Li En-Min , Xu Li-Yan
Published: August 2020

Chemoradiotherapy is one of the most effective and extensively used strategies for cancer treatment. Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) regulates vital biological processes, such as cell proliferation and cell growth. It is constitutively activated in various cancers and limits the application of chemoradiotherapy. Accumulating evidence suggests that STAT3 regulates resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy and thereby impairs therapeutic efficacy by mediating its feedback loop and several target genes. The alternative splicing product STAT3β is often identified as a dominant-negative regulator, but it enhances sensitivity to chemotherapy and offers a new and challenging approach to reverse therapeutic resistance. We focus here on exploring the role of STAT3 in resistance to receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) inhibitors and radiotherapy, outlining the potential of targeting STAT3 to overcome chemo(radio)resistance for improving clinical outcomes, and evaluating the importance of STAT3β as a potential therapeutic approach to overcomes chemo(radio)resistance. In this review, we discuss some new insights into the effect of STAT3 and its subtype STAT3β on chemoradiotherapy sensitivity, and we explore how these insights influence clinical treatment and drug development for cancer.
Comment on Aasebø, E., et al. “The Progression of Acute Myeloid Leukemia from First Diagnosis to Chemoresistant Relapse: A Comparison of Proteomic and Phosphoproteomic Profiles”. Cancers 2020, 12, 1466
Authors: DeRosa Peter , Nava Victor
Published: August 2020

In a recent article published in this journal, Aasebø and colleagues reported [...]
Tumors Responsive to Autophagy-Inhibition: Identification and Biomarkers
Authors: Barbeau Lydie M.O. , Keulers Tom G.H. , Rouschop Kasper M.A.
Published: August 2020

Recent advances in cancer treatment modalities reveal the limitations of the prevalent “one-size-fits-all” therapies and emphasize the necessity to develop personalized approaches. In this perspective, identification of predictive biomarkers and intrinsic vulnerabilities are an important advancement for further therapeutic strategies. Autophagy is an important lysosomal degradation and recycling pathway that provides energy and macromolecular precursors to maintain cellular homeostasis. Although all cells require autophagy, several genetic and/or cellular changes elevate the dependence of cancer cells on autophagy for their survival and indicates that autophagy inhibition in these tumors could provide a favorable addition to current therapies. In this context, we review the current literature on tumor (sub)types with elevated dependence on autophagy for their survival and highlight an exploitable vulnerability. We provide an inventory of microenvironmental factors, genetic alterations and therapies that may be exploited with autophagy-targeted approaches to improve efficacy of conventional anti-tumor therapies.
Second-Generation Antiandrogen Therapy Radiosensitizes Prostate Cancer Regardless of Castration State through Inhibition of DNA Double Strand Break Repair
Authors: Elsesy Mohamed E. , Oh-Hohenhorst Su Jung , Löser Anastassia , Oing Christoph , Mutiara Sally , Köcher Sabrina , Meien Stefanie , Zielinski Alexandra , Burdak-Rothkamm Susanne , Tilki Derya , Huland Hartwig , Schwarz Rudolf , Petersen Cordula , Bokemeyer Carsten , Rothkamm Kai , Mansour Wael Y.
Published: August 2020

(1) Background: The combination of the first-generation antiandrogens and radiotherapy (RT) has been studied extensively in the clinical setting of prostate cancer (PCa). Here, we evaluated the potential radiosensitizing effect of the second-generation antiandrogens abiraterone acetate, apalutamide and enzalutamide. (2) Methods: Cell proliferation and agarose-colony forming assay were used to measure the effect on survival. Double strand break repair efficiency was monitored using immunofluorescence staining of γH2AX/53BP1. (3) Results: We report retrospectively a minor benefit for PCa patients received first-generation androgen blockers and RT compared to patients treated with RT alone. Combining either of the second-generation antiandrogens and 2Gy suppressed cell growth and increased doubling time significantly more than 2Gy alone, in both hormone-responsive LNCaP and castration-resistant C4-2B cells. These findings were recapitulated in resistant sub-clones to (i) hormone ablation (LNCaP-abl), (ii) abiraterone acetate (LNCaP-abi), (iii) apalutamide (LNCaP-ARN509), (iv) enzalutamide (C4-2B-ENZA), and in castration-resistant 22-RV1 cells. This radiosensitization effect was not observable using the first-generation antiandrogen bicalutamide. Inhibition of DNA DSB repair was found to contribute to the radiosensitization effect of second-generation antiandrogens, as demonstrated by a significant increase in residual γH2AX and 53BP1 foci numbers at 24h post-IR. DSB repair inhibition was further demonstrated in 22 patient-derived tumor slice cultures treated with abiraterone acetate before ex-vivo irradiation with 2Gy. (4) Conclusion: Together, these data show that second-generation antiandrogens can enhance radiosensitivity in PCa through DSB repair inhibition, regardless of their hormonal status. Translated into clinical practice, our results may help to find additional strategies to improve the effectiveness of RT in localized PCa, paving the way for a clinical trial.