bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A New Type of Rotary Magnetic Actuator System Using Electromagnetic Vibration and Wheel
Authors: Yaguchi Hiroyuki , Kimura Izuru , Sakuma Shun
Published: July 2020

In recent years, large structures, such as bridges, which are a type of social infrastructure, have been constructed with increasing traffic volume. For this reason, inspection and maintenance of social infrastructures, such as large bridges and tanks, is important. In the present paper, a magnetic wheel actuator system capable of movement using a new principle of locomotion was proposed and tested. The experimental results indicated a maximum pulling force of 1.6 N. By on-off control of the attractive force of the magnetic wheel, the actuator system was demonstrated to be able to move on a step having a height of 10 mm. Furthermore, the proposed actuator system could freely rotate in horizontal and vertical planes of over angles of 360°.
Predicting Rotor Heat Transfer Using the Viscous Blade Element Momentum Theory and Unsteady Vortex Lattice Method
Authors: Samad Abdallah , Tagawa Gitsuzo B. S. , Morency François , Volat Christophe
Published: July 2020

Calculating the unsteady convective heat transfer on helicopter blades is the first step in the prediction of ice accretion and the design of ice-protection systems. Simulations using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) successfully model the complex aerodynamics of rotors as well as the heat transfer on blade surfaces, but for a conceptual design, faster calculation methods may be favorable. In the recent literature, classical methods such as the blade element momentum theory (BEMT) and the unsteady vortex lattice method (UVLM) were used to produce higher fidelity aerodynamic results by coupling them to viscous CFD databases. The novelty of this research originates from the introduction of an added layer of the coupling technique to predict rotor blade heat transfer using the BEMT and UVLM. The new approach implements the viscous coupling of the two methods from one hand and introduces a link to a new airfoil CFD-determined heat transfer correlation. This way, the convective heat transfer on ice-clean rotor blades is estimated while benefiting from the viscous extension of the BEMT and UVLM. The CFD heat transfer prediction is verified using existing correlations for a flat plate test case. Thrust predictions by the implemented UVLM and BEMT agree within 2% and 80% compared to experimental data. Tip vortex locations by the UVLM are predicted within 90% but fail in extreme ground effect. The end results present as an estimate of the heat transfer for a typical lightweight helicopter tail rotor for four test cases in hover, ground effect, axial, and forward flight.
The Resilience of Smallholder Livestock Farmers in Sub-Saharan Africa and the Risks Imbedded in Rural Livestock Systems
Authors: Gwaka Leon , Dubihlela Job
Published: July 2020

Smallholder livestock farmers (SLF) are important in research and policy development agenda because of the everlasting issue of food insecurity and the livelihoods in sub-Sahara Africa. Lack of access to technologies and information, poor infrastructure and lack of access to markets and environmental factors play a key role in deterring sustainable smallholder livestock farming. In recent years, studies have provided evidence that livestock species can play a role towards solving household food insecurity and enhancing Africa’s resilient livelihoods, particularly in rural settings. However, no studies have been conducted on the effectiveness of emerging technologies (available information technologies) as risk mitigation tools for smallholder livestock farmers. The study used survey data from 278 interviewer-administered questionnaires and 13 in-depth interviews village herds from Dumba, Mapayi, Old Nuli and Shabwe to explore whether rural SLF would use the emerging technologies to enhance their operations, and mitigate supply chain risk, exposures to stock theft and loss. Empirical results show the overwhelming need for the use of emerging technologies by the SLF, and that emerging technologies have significant and positive effects on the risk management activities. SLF indicated that, using digital technologies, they could enhance their risk mitigation and value chains. The results of the study have several policy implications. For instance, the agricultural comparative advantage should be improved through various emerging agricultural technologies. Moreover, the immediate rural development service networks for SLF could be strengthened through the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform to reduce livestock risk exposures, disasters and market reactions. Although rural livestock farming in Beitbridge has survived over the years at a subsistence level, the paper provides some interesting and pertinent findings, and projects some possible future research pathways.
Current and Future Potential Distribution of Wild Strawberry Species in the Biodiversity Hotspot of Yunnan Province, China
Authors: Yang Junyu , Su Daifa , Wei Shijie , Chen Shanyan , Luo Zhiwei , Shen Xuemei , Zhang Zhenrong , Jamil Arslan , Tong Jiangyun , Cui Xiaolong
Published: July 2020

Based on 243 current valid distribution records for six wild strawberry species in China and data on 20 environmental variables, the geographical distributions of and potentially suitable areas for the wild strawberry species in Yunnan Province (China) under the current climate scenario were explored using the MaxEnt model and ArcGIS software, and major environmental variables affecting their geographical distributions were evaluated. In addition, the spatio-temporal dynamic patterns of the suitable areas for the six wild strawberry species in Yunnan Province in the 2050s and 2070s under the two climate models of RCP2.6 and RCP8.5 were predicted. Under the current climate scenario, the six wild strawberry species have suitable areas in Yunnan Province, which were mainly distributed in the high-altitude and low-temperature regions in the northwest and northeast, such as Diqing and Zhaotong. In addition, the average size of the highly suitable area for diploid wild strawberry species was greater than that for tetraploid species. Under the future climate scenarios, the average size of the highly suitable area for diploid species showed a tendency to expand, while that of tetraploid species showed a tendency to shrink. Altitude was a critical variable affecting the distribution of tetraploid species. Under the two future climate models of RCP2.6 and RCP8.5, the suitable areas for wild strawberry species shifted to the regions of high latitude, high altitude, and low temperature. In addition, the average distance in the shift of the suitable area for tetraploid strawberry species was greater than that for the suitable area for diploid strawberry species. The above results provide valuable information for the management and protection of the germplasm resources of Fragaria.
Transcriptional Modulation of Resistance against Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae Korean Race K2 in japonica Rice
Authors: Niño Marjohn C. , Cho Yong-Gu
Published: July 2020

Bacterial blight is a common disease found in the rice-growing regions in the Korean peninsula. Identification of the gene network involved against Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae Korean race K2 in popular japonica cultivars is essential in underpinning the molecular mechanism of resistance. A microarray of two popular Korean japonica rice cultivars, a bacterial blight susceptible Dongjin and resistant Jinbaek, was performed to investigate the transcripts of inducible genes at 48 h post-inoculation. A total of 771 differentially expressed genes were identified in Jinbaek, whereas 298 were found in Dongjin. The resistance observed in Jinbaek is likely participated by genes with predicted functions in transmembrane perception, intracellular signal transduction, and transcription activity. Moreover, the remarkable involvement of numerous WRKY proteins signifies orchestration of defense signals via robust cellular reprogramming, which leads to resistance. To discover genes essential to bacterial blight resistance in Jinbaek, 13 highly expressed genes encoding different protein classes were cloned and overexpressed in rice. Although none of the overexpression plants exhibited resistance comparable to Jinbaek, four candidate genes, including one twin-arginine translocation pathway signal (LOC_Os01g45640.1), one cytochrome p450 (LOC_Os09g10340.1), and two uncharacterized expressed protein (LOC_Os08g26230.4, LOC_Os09g04310.1) conferred partial resistance. However, of these four genes, only p450s have been reported to play an important role in the synthesis of plant defense compounds. These findings revealed the complexity of key immune signaling conduits critical to mounting a full defense against Xanthomonas. oryzae pv. oryzae race K2 in japonica rice.
Potential Fertilization Capacity of Two Grapevine Varieties: Effects on Agricultural Production in Designation of Origin Areas in the Northwestern Iberian Peninsula
Authors: Cortiñas Rodríguez J. Antonio , Fernández-González María , González-Fernández Estefanía , Vázquez-Ruiz Rosa A. , Rodríguez-Rajo F. Javier , Aira María Jesús
Published: July 2020

In the present study, we analyzed the main parameters related with the potential fertilization ability of two grapevine varieties, Godello and Mencía, during the years 2017 and 2018. The research was carried out in two vineyards of the Galician winegrowing Designation of Origin areas of Ribeiro and Ribeira Sacra. Ten vines of each variety were selected for bunch and flower counting, pollen calculations, pollen viability studies by means of aceto-carmine (AC) stain and 2, 3, 5-triphenyl tetrazolium chloride (TTC) methods, and the determination of their germination rate. In all vineyards the 50% fruitset was reached, except for Godello in Cenlle during 2017. The mean coulure value was higher for Godello (40.5%) than for Mencía (31%). Analyzing the pollen production per plant and airborne pollen levels, we observed important discordances between them, which can be due to the influence of weather conditions and be related with self-pollination processes. We found important differences on pollen viability depending on the applied method and variety, with higher values for the AC method than the TTC for both varieties in all study plots, and higher values for Mencía variety than Godello. Regarding germination rates, we observed a marked reduction in 2017 with respect to 2018, in all study sites and for both varieties. The analyzed parameters were useful to explain the different productive abilities of Godello and Mencía varieties in the two studied bioclimatic regions of Ribeiro and Ribeira Sacra.
Waxy Gene-Orthologs in Wheat × Thinopyrum Amphidiploids
Authors: Klimushina Marina V. , Kroupin Pavel Yu. , Bazhenov Mikhail S. , Karlov Gennady I. , Divashuk Mikhail G.
Published: July 2020

Starch, as the main component of grain in cereals, serves as the major source of calories in staple food and as a raw material for industry. As the technological and digestive properties of starch depend on its content, the management of its components, amylose and amylopectin, is of great importance. The starch properties of wheat grain can be attuned using allelic variations of genes, including granule-bound starch synthase I (GBSS I), or Wx. The tertiary gene pool, including wheatgrass (Thinopyrum) species, provides a wide spectrum of genes-orthologs that can be used to increase the allelic diversity of wheat genes by wide hybridization. Octaploid partial wheat–wheatgrass hybrids (amphidiploids, WWGHs) combine the complete genome of bread wheat (BBAADD), and a mixed genome from the chromosomes of intermediate wheatgrass (Thinopyrum intermedium, genomic composition JrJrJvsJvsStSt) and tall wheatgrass (Th. ponticum, JJJJJJJsJsJsJs). Thus, WWGHs may carry Wx genes not only of wheat (Wx-B1, Wx-A1 and Wx-D1) but also of wheatgrass origin. We aimed to assess the level of amylose in starch and investigate the polymorphism of Wx genes in 12 accessions of WWGHs. Additionally, we characterized orthologous Wx genes in the genomes of wild wheat-related species involved in the development of the studied WWGHs, Th. intermedium and Th. ponticum, as well as in the putative donors of their subgenomes, bessarabian wheatgrass (Th. bessarabicum, JbJb) and bluebunch wheatgrass (Pseudoroegneria stipifolia, St1St1St2St2). Although no significant differences in amylose content were found between different WWGH accessions, SDS-PAGE demonstrated that at least two WWGHs have an additional band. We sequenced the Wx gene-orthologs in Th. bessarabicum, P. stipifolia, Th. intermedium and Th. ponticum, and developed a WXTH marker that can discriminate the Thinopyrum Wx gene in the wheat background, and localized it to the 7E chromosome in Th. elongatum. Using the WXTH marker we revealed the allelic polymorphism of the Thinopyrum Wx gene in the studied WWGHs. The applicability of Thinopyrum Wx genes in wheat breeding and their effect on starch quality are discussed.
Biochar-Ca and Biochar-Al/-Fe-Mediated Phosphate Exchange Capacity are Main Drivers of the Different Biochar Effects on Plants in Acidic and Alkaline Soils
Authors: Baigorri Roberto , San Francisco Sara , Urrutia Óscar , García-Mina José María
Published: July 2020

Because of the low consistency of the results obtained in the field, the use of biochar as a soil amendment is controversial. Thus, in general, in acidic soils, results are positive, while in alkaline soils, they are non-significant or even negative. The results regarding biochar action in acidic soils have been related to a lime-like effect due to its alkaline pH and the high doses normally used. However, the causes of biochar effects in alkaline soils remain unknown. Our objective was to explore the chemical mechanism of biochar interaction in acidic and alkaline soils. We used well-characterized biochar as a component of two complex N and PK granulated fertilizers at two different doses (1% and 5%). These fertilizers were applied to wheat cultivated in pots containing an alkaline soil and grown for 60 days. No effect was shown for the N-biochar fertilizer application. However, the PK-biochar fertilizer application caused a decrease in crop yield. In addition, the adsorption isotherms of Al, Fe, Mo, Mn, and Phosphate (Pi) in biochar were also studied. The results showed that Fe and Al were rapidly adsorbed in biochar, while Pi was only adsorbed on the Fe-, Al-biochar complex. Desorption experiments showed that P and Fe/Al were not desorbed from the P-Fe/Al-biochar complex by water or the Olsen reagent, while partial desorption was observed when HCl 0.1 M was used. This blockage of Fe/Al and P through Fe/Al bridges in biochar could partially explain the negative effects in alkaline soils. After these studies, soil solution sorption experiments were carried out in both acidic and alkaline soils and were complemented with a greenhouse trial using tomato plants. The results showed that biochar enhanced foliar Ca and N content, as well as growth in acidic soil only, and the possible mechanism of the failure in alkaline soils.
Genome-Wide Analysis of the Trehalose-6-Phosphate Synthase (TPS) Gene Family and Expression Profiling of ScTPS Genes in Sugarcane
Authors: Hu Xin , Wu Zhuan-Di , Luo Zheng-Ying , Burner David M. , Pan Yong-Bao , Wu Cai-Wen
Published: July 2020

The trehalose-6-phosphate synthase (TPS) gene family plays important roles in conferring plant stress resistance, but a comprehensive analysis of the gene family is lacking for sugarcane (Saccharum spp. hybrids). The objective of this study is to document functional classification, evolutionary characterization, and expression profiling of sugarcane TPS gene (ScTPS) family. Nine putative ScTPS genes were identified and assigned to two distinct classes based on gene structure and phylogeny. Phylogenetic analysis showed that 31 TPS genes from Arabidopsis, rice and sugarcane could be divided into five distinct clades, suggesting that there were at least five orthologous groups in monocot and dicot plants. Evolution analysis of TPS genes revealed that TPS family members appeared to have undergone strong negative selection. The strength of the selective pressure differed in most clades, especially Class I TPS genes, experienced significantly stronger negative selection pressure than Class II TPS genes. There were also cis-regulatory elements related to phytohormones and abiotic stresses. Additionally, ScTPS genes were found to exhibit divergent expression in response to simulated drought, salinity, and ABA stresses. Since ScTPS genes function in sugarcane adaptation to environmental stimuli, it might be used as a molecular marker in screening sugarcane germplasm for increased stress resistance.
Geo-Agriculture: Reviewing Opportunities through Which the Geosphere Can Help Address Emerging Crop Production Challenges
Authors: Pratt Chris , Kingston Kate , Laycock Bronwyn , Levett Ian , Pratt Steven
Published: July 2020

The agricultural sector faces looming challenges including dwindling fertiliser reserves, environmental impacts of conventional soil inputs, and increasingly difficult growing conditions wrought by climate change. Naturally-occurring rocks and minerals may help address these challenges. In this case, we explore opportunities through which the geosphere could support viable agricultural systems, primarily via a literature review supplemented by data analysis and preliminary-scale experimentation. Our objective is to focus on opportunities specifically relating to emerging agricultural challenges. Our findings reveal that a spectrum of common geological materials can assist across four key agricultural challenges: 1. Providing environmentally-sustainable fertiliser deposits especially for the two key elements in food production, nitrogen (via use of slow release N-rich clays), and phosphorus (via recovery of the biomineral struvite) as well as through development of formulations to tap into mineral nutrient reserves underlying croplands. 2. Reducing contamination from farms—using clays, zeolites, and hydroxides to intercept, and potentially recycle nutrients discharged from paddocks. 3. Embedding drought resilience into agricultural landscapes by increasing soil moisture retention (using high surface area minerals including zeolite and smectite), boosting plant availability of drought protective elements (using basalts, smectites, and zeolites), and decreasing soil surface temperature (using reflective smectites, zeolites, and pumices), and 4. mitigating emissions of all three major greenhouse gases—carbon dioxide (using fast-weathering basalts), methane (using iron oxides), and nitrous oxide (using nitrogen-sorbing clays). Drawbacks of increased geological inputs into agricultural systems include an increased mining footprint, potential increased loads of suspended sediments in high-rainfall catchments, changes to geo-ecological balances, and possible harmful health effects to practitioners extracting and land-applying the geological materials. Our review highlights potential for ‘geo-agriculture’ approaches to not only help meet several key emerging challenges that threaten sustainable food and fiber production, but also to contribute to achieving some of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals—‘Zero Hunger,’ ‘Life on Land,’ and ‘Climate Action.’
Antimicrobial Prescription Habits of Dentists Performing Dental Implant Treatments in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Authors: Aragoneses Juan Manuel , Aragoneses Javier , Brugal Vanessa Arlette , Algar Juan , Suarez Ana
Published: July 2020

The use of antibiotics in implant treatments is controversial. The purpose of this research was to study the behaviors of Santo Domingo dentists who prescribe antimicrobials to patients for the placement of dental implants. A total of 99 dentists participated in the study. A share of 1.2% of dentists prescribed antimicrobials solely in the preoperative period, 8.6% after surgery, 44.4% before and after, 19.8% only in specific situations, and 25.9% did not prescribe at all. Amoxicillin was the predominant antimicrobial of choice. A cross-sectional, observational, survey-based study was conducted. The items studied were demographics, self-assessment of knowledge about antibiotics and when they are used, as well as their recommended dosage and duration, in healthy and non-allergic patients. Notable variability was found in the prescription behaviors of antimicrobials. Bridging gaps in knowledge on the subject could help to standardize prescription guidelines.
Risk Perceptions of Antibiotic Usage and Resistance: A Cross-Sectional Survey of Poultry Farmers in Kwara State, Nigeria
Authors: Al-Mustapha Ahmad I. , Adetunji Victoria O. , Heikinheimo Annamari
Published: July 2020

Overwhelming empirical evidence has highlighted the contribution of indiscriminate antibiotic usage (ABU) in food animals to the overall burden of antibiotic resistance (ABR) in humans, thus making antibiotic use the main selective pressure driving antibiotic resistance. The social and behavioral perspective on antibiotic use and resistance in poultry is limited. Our study therefore aimed at obtaining information on antibiotic usage, awareness of ABR, and the attitude and perceptions towards prudent antibiotic usage and ABR. A cross-sectional survey using a structured questionnaire was conducted in 125 poultry farms in Kwara state in December 2019. Most farmers (69.6%, n = 87/125) were aware of ABR and had satisfactory knowledge about ABR with a mean knowledge score of 3.2 ± 1.5. Age (older farmers; OR: 1.1, 95% CI: 1.0, 1.2) and gender (male respondents, OR: 8.5, 95% CI: 3.0, 23.9; p < 0.01) were more likely to have satisfactory knowledge of ABR. Tertiary education was significantly associated with ABR awareness (OR: 4.7; 95% CI: 0.1, 0.7; p = 0.007) and the ABR knowledge level (OR: 7.8; 95% CI: 3.3, 18.7; p < 0.01). Higher flock size was significantly associated with a satisfactory knowledge of ABR (OR: 9.5; 95% CI: 3.8, 23.6; p < 0.01). Most of the poultry farmers (68%) had positive attitudes towards prudent antibiotic use with a mean score of 2.7 ± 0.9. On the contrary, only 32.8% of poultry farmers had a desirable perception of ABR with a mean perception score of 4.9 ± 1.1. The ABR knowledge level was significantly associated with the perceptions of farmers (p < 0.05) but not their attitudes toward ABU and ABR (p = 0.083). There was evidence of unprescribed use of antibiotics in poultry and a failure to observe antibiotic withdrawal periods. These constitute a risk of exposure to unacceptable levels of drug residues from poultry products and an increased risk of ABR. Improving education and communication on antibiotic stewardship programs are crucial to prevent the looming antibiotic threat.
Current Concepts in Community and Ventilator Associated Lower Respiratory Tract Infections in ICU Patients
Authors: Martin-Loeches Ignacio
Published: July 2020

It is widely known that pneumonia (either community acquired or hospital acquired, as like ventilator associated pneumonia (VAP)), is the most frequent type of severe infection and continues to pose a significant burden on healthcare services worldwide. Despite new diagnostic developments, most pneumonia cases continue to be difficult to diagnose clinically, partly due to acquired antibiotic resistance and the lack of a ‘gold standard’ method of diagnosis. In other words, the lack of a rapid, accurate diagnostic test, as well as the uncertainty of the initial etiologic diagnosis and the risk stratification, results in empirical antibiotic treatments. There are significant changes in the aetiology of patients with ventilator associated lower respiratory tract infections (VA-LRTI), which are characterised by a higher incidence of multi drug resistant organisms. Evidence suggests that when patients with VA-LRTI develop organ failure, the associated mortality can be exceptionally high with frequent complications, including acute respiratory distress syndrome, acute kidney injury, and septic shock. Appropriate antibiotic treatments must consider that the present cardiovascular failure seen in patients has a different association with the patient’s mortality. Unlike patients with less severe clinical presentations, who have a higher chance of survival when the appropriate antibiotics are administered promptly, for patients with a severe subtype of the disease, the appropriateness of antibiotic treatment will impact the patient’s outcome to a lesser extent. The present review highlights certain factors detectable at the time of admission that could indicate patients who are at a high risk of bacteraemia and who, therefore, merit more intense therapy and stratified care.
Synthesis and Evaluation of the Antibacterial Activities of 13-Substituted Berberine Derivatives
Authors: Olleik Hamza , Yacoub Taher , Hoffer Laurent , Gnansounou Senankpon Martial , Benhaiem-Henry Kehna , Nicoletti Cendrine , Mekhalfi Malika , Pique Valérie , Perrier Josette , Hijazi Akram , Baydoun Elias , Raymond Josette , Piccerelle Philippe , Maresca Marc , Robin Maxime
Published: July 2020

The biological activities of berberine, a natural plant molecule, are known to be affected by structural modifications, mostly at position 9 and/or 13. A series of new 13-substituted berberine derivatives were synthesized and evaluated in term of antimicrobial activity using various microorganisms associated to human diseases. Contrarily to the original molecule berberine, several derivatives were found strongly active in microbial sensitivity tests against Mycobacterium, Candida albicans and Gram-positive bacteria, including naïve or resistant Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes with minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 3.12 to 6.25 µM. Among the various Gram-negative strains tested, berberine’s derivatives were only found active on Helicobacter pylori and Vibrio alginolyticus (MIC values of 1.5–3.12 µM). Cytotoxicity assays performed on human cells showed that the antimicrobial berberine derivatives caused low toxicity resulting in good therapeutic index values. In addition, a mechanistic approach demonstrated that, contrarily to already known berberine derivatives causing either membrane permeabilization, DNA fragmentation or interacting with FtsZ protein, active derivatives described in this study act through inhibition of the synthesis of peptidoglycan or RNA. Overall, this study shows that these new berberine derivatives can be considered as potent and safe anti-bacterial agents active on human pathogenic microorganisms, including ones resistant to conventional antibiotics.
Antioxidative Action of Ellagic Acid—A Kinetic DFT Study
Authors: Tošović Jelena , Bren Urban
Published: July 2020

Although one can find numerous studies devoted to the investigation of antioxidative activity of ellagic acid (EA) in the scientific literature, the mechanisms of its action have not yet been fully clarified. Therefore, further kinetic studies are needed to understand its antioxidative capacity completely. This work aims to reveal the underlying molecular mechanisms responsible for the antioxidative action of EA. For this purpose, its reactions with HO• and CCl3OO• radicals were simulated at physiological conditions using the quantum mechanics-based test for overall free-radical scavenging activity. The density functional theory in combination with the conductor-like polarizable continuum solvation model was utilized. With HO• radical EA conforms to the hydrogen atom transfer and radical adduct formation mechanisms, whereas sequential proton loss electron transfer mechanism is responsible for scavenging of CCl3OO• radical. In addition, compared to trolox, EA was found more reactive toward HO•, but less reactive toward CCl3OO•. The calculated rate constants for the reactions of EA with both free radicals are in a very good agreement with the corresponding experimental values.
Dauricine Protects from LPS-Induced Bone Loss via the ROS/PP2A/NF-κB Axis in Osteoclasts
Authors: Park Hyun-Jung , Gholam Zadeh Malihatosadat , Suh Jae-Hee , Choi Hye-Seon
Published: July 2020

Dauricine (DAC), an isoquinoline alkaloid, exhibits anti-inflammatory activity. We hypothesized that DAC may prevent the inflammatory bone loss induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). LPS-induced bone loss was decreased by DAC in female C57BL/6J mice as evaluated by micro-computerized tomography (μCT) analysis. In vivo tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining showed that the increased number of osteoclasts (OCs) in LPS-treated mice was attenuated by DAC, indicating that DAC exhibited bone sparing effects through acting on OCs. DAC also decreased the differentiation and activity of OCs after LPS stimulation in vitro. LPS-induced cytosolic reactive oxygen species (cROS) oxidized PP2A, a serine/threonine phosphatase, leading to the activation of IKKα/β, followed by the nuclear localization of p65. DAC decreased LPS-induced ROS, resulting in the recovery of the activity of PP2A by reducing its oxidized form. Consequently, DAC reduced the phosphorylation of IKKα/β to block the nuclear localization of p65, which decreased NF-κB activation. Taken together, DAC reduced the differentiation and activity of OCs by decreasing ROS via the ROS/PP2A/NF-κB axis, resulting in protection from LPS-induced bone loss. We have demonstrated that LPS-induced bone loss was inhibited by DAC via its action on OCs, implying the therapeutic potential of DAC against inflammatory bone loss.
Mitigating the Effects of Oxidative Sperm DNA Damage
Authors: Pini Taylor , Makloski Rachel , Maruniak Karen , Schoolcraft William B. , Katz-Jaffe Mandy G.
Published: July 2020

Sperm DNA damage is correlated with reduced embryo development and increased miscarriage risk, reducing successful conception. Given its links with oxidative stress, antioxidants have been investigated as a potential treatment, yet results are conflicting. Importantly, individual antioxidants are not identical in composition, and some compounds may be more effective than others. We investigated the use of the polyphenol-rich, high-antioxidant-capacity fruit acai as a treatment for elevated sperm DNA fragmentation (>16%), measured by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labelling (TUNEL). Following ≥ 74 days of treatment, we observed a significant decrease in sperm DNA fragmentation (−17.0% ± 2.5%) to 11.9 ± 1.7% (0–37%), with a 68.6% success rate (defined as post-treatment TUNEL < 16%). Post-treatment decreases in DNA fragmentation and success rates were not significantly impacted by low motility and/or concentration, or exceptionally high (> 25%) TUNEL. Treatment significantly reduced concentration in men with normal semen parameters, but 88% remained normal. Overall, successful treatment was not associated with age, semen parameters or TUNEL result at baseline. However, body mass index was significantly higher in nonresponders at baseline. This study provides evidence of a low-cost, effective treatment for elevated sperm DNA damage using acai.
The Nitric Oxide System in Peripheral Artery Disease: Connection with Oxidative Stress and Biopterins
Authors: Ismaeel Ahmed , Papoutsi Evlampia , Miserlis Dimitrios , Lavado Ramon , Haynatzki Gleb , Casale George P. , Bohannon William T. , Smith Robert S. , Eidson Jack Leigh , Brumberg Robert , Hayson Aaron , Kirk Jeffrey S. , Castro Carlos , Sawicki Ian , Konstantinou Charalambos , Brewster Luke P. , Pipinos Iraklis I. , Koutakis Panagiotis
Published: July 2020

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) pathophysiology extends beyond hemodynamics to include other operating mechanisms, including endothelial dysfunction. Oxidative stress may be linked to endothelial dysfunction by reducing nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability. We aimed to investigate whether the NO system and its regulators are altered in the setting of PAD and to assess the relationship between NO bioavailability and oxidative stress. Sera from 35 patients with intermittent claudication (IC), 26 patients with critical limb ischemia (CLI), and 35 non-PAD controls were analyzed to determine levels of tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4), dihydrobiopterin (BH2), nitrate/nitrite (nitric oxides, or NOx), arginine, citrulline, asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA), and the oxidative stress markers 8-Oxo-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE), advanced glycation end products (AGEs), and protein carbonyls. NOx was significantly lower in IC and CLI patients compared to controls in association with elevated oxidative stress, with the greatest NOx reductions observed in CLI. Compared with controls, IC and CLI patients had reduced BH4, elevated BH2, and a reduced BH4/BH2 ratio. SDMA, the arginine/SDMA ratio, and the arginine/ADMA ratio were significantly higher in CLI patients. The NO system and its regulators are significantly compromised in PAD. This dysregulation appears to be driven by increased oxidative stress and worsens as the disease progresses from claudication to CLI.
Retrofit Strategies against Progressive Collapse of Steel Gravity Frames
Authors: Zhang Lei , Li Honghao , Wang Wei
Published: July 2020

Two retrofit strategies, aiming at increasing the collapse resistance of simple connections by adding seat angles and steel plates with long-slotted holes, are proposed in order to address the vulnerability of steel gravity frames under column loss scenarios. A high-fidelity, detailed, finite element model for a planar composite frame is developed and calibrated against experimental data and is used to conduct numerical analysis to explore the effectiveness of the proposed retrofit strategies. The simulation results show that the planar composite frame with enhanced connections exhibits significantly higher collapse resistance and better ductility under column loss scenarios compared with the one with conventional connections. Meanwhile, it is also revealed that the proposed retrofit strategies have an insignificant impact on the behavior of the structural system under earthquakes. These two retrofit strategies are then implemented to retrofit the gravity system of a 10-story, seismically designed steel frame structure, which has been shown to be vulnerable to progressive collapse after an interior gravity column is forcibly removed or impacted by a heavy vehicle with high speed. Numerical simulations were performed using a 3-D micro-based model and the simulation results illustrate that progressive collapse of the structure with enhanced gravity systems is prevented under both scenarios. Therefore, the proposed retrofit strategies are effective in preventing the progressive collapse of existing steel structures employing simple connections.
Structural Behavior of Large-Scale I-Beams with Combined Textile and CFRP Reinforcement
Authors: Bielak Jan , Schmidt Maximilian , Hegger Josef , Jesse Frank
Published: July 2020

With the innovative composite material carbon-reinforced concrete, thin-walled, high-performance components can be realized. A combination of carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) bars and non-metallic textile grids is advantageous as it exploits the full potential of the high-performance materials to reduce dead loads, increases durability, and extends lifespan. For new components with such mixed reinforcement, applicable design concepts and engineering rules are necessary to accurately determine the structural and deformation behavior. To validate models and detailing rules previously developed, three large carbon reinforced concrete I-beams were designed and tested to failure with a realistic line load. CFRP bars served as principal bending reinforcement, whereas shear and flange reinforcement consisted of textile grids. Results showed that existing models for bending using variation of strain distribution as well as non-linear finite-element analysis predicted the flexural behavior of structural components with mixed reinforcement in ultimate limit state (ULS) appropriately. Yet, calculation of shear capacity requires further studies to determine textile reinforcement contribution and estimate reduction for concrete strength in reinforced compression struts. For serviceability limit state (SLS), three methods for determination of deflection delivered good results. In future, a rethinking is required with regard to the ductility and robustness of CFRP-reinforced concrete components. In this respect, pronounced cracking as well as the large ultimate strain and deflection compensate for the lacking yield capacity of the reinforcement.
Analysis of Carbon Dioxide Concentration Prediction Model and Diffusion Tendency of Expiratory by Simultaneous Multipoint Sensing
Authors: Moritani Motokazu , Watanabe Norifumi , Miyamoto Kensuke , Itoda Kota , Imani Junya , Aoyama Hiroyuki , Takefuji Yoshiyasu
Published: July 2020

Recent indoor air quality studies show that even 1000 parts per million (ppm) concentration of Carbon Dioxide (CO2) has an adverse effect on human intellectual activities. Therefore, it is required to keep the CO 2 concentration below a certain value in a room. In this study, in order to analyze the diffusion tendency of carbon dioxide by breathing, we constructed a simultaneous multi-point sensing system equipped with a carbon dioxide concentration sensor to measure indoor environment. Furthermore, it was evaluated whether the prediction model can be effectively used by comparing the prediction value by the model and the actually measured value from the sensor. The experimental results showed that CO 2 by exhaled breathing diffuses evenly throughout the room regardless of the sensor’s relative positions to the human test subjects. The existing model is sufficiently accurate in a room which has above at least a 0.67 cycle/h ventilation cycle. However, there is a large gap between the measured and the model’s predicted values in a room with a low ventilation cycle, and that suggests a measurement with a sensor still is necessary to precisely monitor the indoor air quality.
The Buying Time Argument within the Solar Radiation Management Discourse
Authors: Neuber Frederike , Ott Konrad
Published: July 2020

In this article, we will establish a version of the buying time argument (BTA) in favor of Sulphur Aerosol Injection (SAI) Climate Engineering (CE). The idea is not to promote the deployment of such scheme, but rather to present the strongest possible argument pro SAI in order to look at its presuppositions, implications, critical points and uncertainties. In discussing BTA being the only morally sound argument in favor of SAI, the stakes and the overall framework will become visible. If, however, the strongest pro-SAI argument enables us to recognize some major flaws of this technology, this option should be disregarded.
Mobile Personal Multi-Access Edge Computing Architecture Composed of Individual User Devices
Authors: Lee Juyong , Kim Jeong-Weon , Lee Jihoon
Published: July 2020

The Multi-Access Edge Computing (MEC) paradigm provides a promising solution to solve the resource-insufficiency problem in user mobile devices by offloading computation-intensive and delay-sensitive computing services to nearby edge nodes. However, there is a lack of research on the efficient task offloading and mobility support when mobile users frequently move in the MEC environment. In this paper, we propose the mobile personal MEC architecture that utilizes a user’s mobile device as an MEC server (MECS) so that mobile users can receive fast response and continuous service delivery. The results show that the proposed scheme reduces the average service delay and provides efficient task offloading compared to the existing MEC scheme. In addition, the proposed scheme outperforms the existing MEC scheme because the existing mobile user devices are used as MECS, enabling low-latency service and continuous service delivery, even as the mobile user requests and task sizes increase.
Piezoelectric Electro-Mechanical Impedance (EMI) Based Structural Crack Monitoring
Authors: Wang Tao , Tan Bohai , Lu Mingge , Zhang Zheng , Lu Guangtao
Published: July 2020

To detect small cracks in plate like structures, the high frequency characteristics of local dynamics were studied with the piezoelectric electro-mechanical impedance (EMI) method, and damages were monitored by the changes of the EMI. The finite element simulation model of EMI was established, and numerical analysis was conducted. The simulation results indicated that the peak frequency of the piezoelectric admittance signal is a certain order resonance frequency of the structure, and the piezoelectric impedance method could effectively detect the dynamic characteristics of the structure. The piezoelectric admittance simulation and experimental study of aluminum beams with different crack sizes were performed. Simulation and experimental results revealed that the peak admittance frequency decreases with the increase of crack size, and the higher resonance frequency is more sensitive to the small-scale damage. The proposed method has good repeatability and strong signal-to-noise ratio to monitor the occurrence and development of small-scale crack damage, and it has an important application prospect.
Clinical Efficacy of Four In-Office Vital Tooth Bleaching Products with Different Concentrations of Hydrogen Peroxide: A Randomized, Quadruple-Blind Clinical Trial
Authors: Peydro-Herrero Marta , Montiel-Company José María , Labaig-Rueda Carlos , Solá-Ruiz María Fernanda , Agustín-Panadero Rubén , Amengual-Lorenzo José
Published: July 2020

Background: Dental bleaching has become an everyday procedure for treating teeth presenting discoloration, as a therapy on its own or as a part of restorative dentistry. The most widely used bleaching products available for vital teeth are hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide, marketed as a range of products adapted to different treatment modes. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the clinical whitening efficacy of four high-concentration bleaching products for vital teeth applied in single in-office sessions. Methods: This clinical trial included 40 patients divided into four groups according to the concentration of the hydrogen peroxide-based (HP) product used (Group 1: HP 35%; Group 2: HP 37.5%; Group 3: HP 38%; Group 4: HP 40%). Each patient received one in-office whitening treatment of maxillary and mandibular anterior teeth (incisors, canines, and premolars), making a total of 791 teeth. The color changes produced in central incisors and canines were measured. Results: All groups underwent significant color changes from initial to final evaluations for color parameters L*, a*, and b*. No significant differences between the four groups were found for either the L* or a* parameters. Analysis of the b* parameter found significant differences between the HP 38% group and the HP 35% group. No significant differences in ΔE were found between the four groups (ANOVA p = 0.174). HP 38% obtained the highest ΔE (4.63), while HP 40% obtained 4.01. Conclusions: A single in-office whitening session, regardless of the bleaching product used, modifies tooth color effectively. All four products achieved increases in the L* parameter and significant reductions in parameters a* and b*. The ΔE did not show significant differences between the four groups. In-office whitening with high concentration hydrogen-peroxide-based products was found to be an effective treatment for moderate and severe dental discoloration.
Application of Multiple Unipolar Axial Eddy Current Brakes for Lightweight Electric Vehicle Braking
Authors: Putra Mufti Reza Aulia , Nizam Muhammad , Tjahjana Dominicus Danardono Dwi Prija , Aziz Muhammad , Prabowo Aditya Rio
Published: July 2020

The braking system in a vehicle has the main role of slowing down the speed or stopping the moving vehicle. Compared to mechanical braking, which utilizes friction, non-contact braking has several advantages, including longer lifetime and less maintenance. One form of non-contact braking systems is the eddy current brake (ECB), an electric braking system that employs eddy currents to operate. This research focuses on the impact of magnetic field sources used in the ECB. In addition, the number of magnetic field sources is also observed. In order to achieve an ECB design that can be easily applied in any types of vehicles, including motorcycles and compact cars, a compact ECB design with an excellent braking torque is required. In this study, a compact design of the ECB is obtained by distributing the required braking torque from the disc brake into multiple electromagnets. Finite element method-based modeling has been performed to study ECB parameters, including the number of coil winding, the number of electromagnets, and the electric current. The results of this study show that the developed compact ECB could produce 93.66% of the torque required for braking.
Rethinking Collective Housing: A Case Study of Spatial Flexibility and Adaptability in Arturo Soria (Madrid, 1975)
Authors: De Jorge Huertas Virginia
Published: July 2020

This article presents an analysis of a collective housing project designed by the architects Emilia Bisquert Santiago, Carmen González Lobo, Jose Miguel de Prada Poole and Ricardo Aroca in the Arturo Soria neighbourhood in Madrid in 1975. This project is noteworthy for its architects’ preference for designing flexible and adaptable spaces, both in the interior distribution of the homes spaces and in the common spaces of the building itself. Their main aim was to eliminate the rigid spatial segregation that was a dominant feature of Spanish housing estates promoted by the OSH (House Building Union) during the Franco Regime (1939–1975). To understand this idea, this research proposes a comparison between a Housing Estate promoted by the OSH in 1956 and the Arturo Soria building designed in 1975. The article explains and analyses the different architectural strategies that the architects proposed to achieve that flexibility and adaptability: a permanent structural ‘infrastructure,’ an intermediate architectural system adaptable over time, and finally, a range of possible configurations for the individual dwelling. Another important issue is the relationship between the construction system and alternative development of both horizontal and vertical living space. Explaining this relationship could help shape the habitability of future homes, the development of a sense of community, the possibility of designing for tenancies of different lengths and needs and the management of constant changes to a collective society.
The Phytochemical Indicaxanthin Synergistically Enhances Cisplatin-Induced Apoptosis in HeLa Cells via Oxidative Stress-Dependent p53/p21waf1 Axis
Authors: Allegra Mario , D’Anneo Antonella , Frazzitta Anna , Restivo Ignazio , Livrea Maria Antonia , Attanzio Alessandro , Tesoriere Luisa
Published: July 2020

Combining phytochemicals with chemotherapics is an emerging strategy to treat cancer to overcome drug toxicity and resistance with natural compounds. We assessed the effects of indicaxanthin (Ind), a pigment obtained from Opuntia ficus-indica (L. Mill) fruit, combined with cisplatin (CDDP) against cervical cancer cells (HeLa). Measured cell viability via Trypan blue assay; cell morphology via fluorescence microscopy; apoptosis, cell cycle, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and cell redox balance via flow-cytometry; expression levels of apoptosis-related proteins via western blot. Cell viability assays and Chou-Talalay plot demonstrated that the combination of CDDP and Ind had synergistic cytotoxic effects. Combined treatment had significant effects (p < 0.05) on phosphatidylserine externalization, cell morphological changes, cell cycle arrest, fall in MMP, ROS production and GSH decay compared with the individual treatment groups. Bax, cytochrome c, p53 and p21waf1 were over-expressed, while Bcl-2 was downregulated. Pre-treatment with N-acetyl-l-cysteine abolished the observed synergistic effects. We also demonstrated potentiation of CDDP anticancer activity by nutritionally relevant concentrations of Ind. Oxidative stress-dependent mitochondrial cell death is the basis of the chemosensitizing effect of Ind combined with CDDP against HeLa cancer cells. ROS act as upstream signaling molecules to initiate apoptosis via p53/p21waf1 axis. Ind can be a phytochemical of interest in combo-therapy.