bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioactive Properties of Fruits and Leafy Vegetables Managed with Integrated, Organic, and Organic No-Tillage Practices in the Mediterranean Area: A Two-Year Rotation Experiment
Authors: Ceccanti Costanza , Landi Marco , Antichi Daniele , Guidi Lucia , Manfrini Luigi , Monti Michele , Tosti Giacomo , Frasconi Christian
Published: June 2020

The sustainability of current farming systems has been questioned in the last decades, especially in terms of the environmental impact and mitigation of global warming. Also, the organic sector, which is supposed to impact less on the environment than other more intensive systems, is looking for innovative solutions to improve its environmental sustainability. Promisingly, the integration of organic management practices with conservation agriculture techniques may help to increase environmental sustainability of food production. However, little is known about the possible impact of conservation agriculture on the content of bioactive compounds in cash crops. For this reason, a two-year rotation experiment used 7 cash crops (4 leafy vegetables and 3 fruit crops) to compare integrated (INT), organic farming (ORG), and organic no-tillage (ORG+) systems to evaluate the possible influence of cropping systems on the nutritional/nutraceutical values of the obtained fruits and leafy vegetables. The results pointed out specific responses based on the species as well as the year of cultivation. However, cultivation with the ORG+ cropping system resulted in effective obtainment of fruits and vegetables with higher levels of bioactive compounds in several cases (11 out 16 observations). The ORG+ cropping system results are particularly promising for leafy vegetable cultivation, especially when ORG+ is carried out on a multi-year basis. Aware that the obtained data should be consolidated with longer-term experiments, we conclude that this dataset may represent a good starting point to support conservation agriculture systems as a possible sustainable strategy to obtain products with higher levels of bioactive compounds.
Lucerne (Medicago sativa L.) Persistence Remains Unchanged under Variable Cutting Regimes
Authors: Burnett Vivianne F. , Butler Kym L. , Hirth Jeff R. , Mitchell Meredith L. , Clark Steve G. , Nie Zhongnan
Published: June 2020

Lucerne (Medicago sativa L.) persistence is important for farming systems in south east Australia. Defoliation of lucerne that is too frequent (arguably more than once every six weeks) reduces yield and accelerates stand decline. Three experiments were conducted in south east Australia (Burraja, New South Wales; Rutherglen and Hamilton, Victoria) to investigate different cutting regimes on lucerne persistence. At Burraja lucerne was cut 16 (lax) or 33 (severe) times over three years at different plant densities. At Rutherglen and Hamilton lucerne was cut every 21 days (short rotation), every 42 days (long rotation), when new shoots (2.5 cm long) emerged (new shoots) or cutting when new shoots emerged but allowing the lucerne to flower in autumn (new shoots flowering). It was hypothesised that the frequent cutting of lucerne would result in lower plant densities. At Burraja there was little difference between treatments at any density or assessment. At Hamilton, apart from the assessment in June 2016, there was no difference (p > 0.1) between treatments. At Rutherglen, there was no difference (p > 0.1) between treatments at any assessment although plant numbers declined in 2016 from waterlogging. The results provide evidence that lucerne has intrinsic mechanisms that protect it from cutting, often at short intervals, thus promoting its persistence over three to four-year periods.
Arbuscular Mycorrhizas Traits and Yield of Winter Wheat Profiled by Mineral Fertilization
Authors: Vidican Roxana , Păcurar Florin , Vâtcă Sorin Daniel , Pleșa Anca , Stoian Vlad
Published: June 2020

Our aim is to evaluate the changes in arbuscular mycorrhiza characteristics of winter wheat in a three-year experiment. Study results show that fertilizers produce strong variations in arbuscular mycorrhiza extension, with colonization frequency values within 76–98%. The intensity of colonization is only 12% when phosphorus (P) exceeds nitrogen (N) in autumn, but reaches 38% when the N:P ratio is equal. Root colonization shows no consistency from one experimental year to another, with the largest fluctuations recorded in colonization intensity (22–65%) and arbuscules abundance (0–5%). Arbuscules are maintained below 1% by fertilizer with more P than N. Colonization forecasting models indicate P as a factor for the reduction of symbiosis. Each kg of applied P can reduce the colonization frequency by 0.28% and intensity by 0.37%. The maximum of the colonization degree is 61% due to the synergy of equal N and P doses in autumn and ammonium nitrate applied in spring. The application of multiple moderate doses acts as a stimulant for the development of a large root-fungal interface.
The Effect on Tytanit Foliar Application on the Yield and Nutritional Value of Festulolium braunii
Authors: Malinowska Elżbieta , Jankowski Kazimierz , Kania Paweł , Gałecka Martyna
Published: June 2020

The aim of the research was to assess the content of protein and soluble sugars and the yield of Festulolium braunii treated with different fertilizers. The effects of Tytanit foliar application at a concentration of 0.2% and 1% and of mineral nitrogen at a dose of 80 and 160 kg/ha were studied in the experiment. When the grass was fully developed (2015–2017), Festulolium braunii was harvested three times a year. Mineral nitrogen fertilizer in combination with Tytanit increased the yield and the concentration of proteinin the plants. Each year the highest yield was recorded on plots treated with mineral nitrogen at a dose of 160 kg ha−1 in combination with the foliar application of Tytanit at a concentration of 1%. In the 1st and 2nd years of the research, Festulolium braunii treated with one dose of Tytanit at a concentration of 1% contained more soluble sugars than plants from plots treated with nitrogen.
Yields, Calorific Value and Chemical Properties of Cup Plant Silphium perfoliatum L. Biomass, Depending on the Method of Establishing the Plantation
Authors: Bury Marek , Możdżer Ewa , Kitczak Teodor , Siwek Hanna , Włodarczyk Małgorzata
Published: June 2020

Silphium perfoliatum L. (Silphium) is one of the most promising perennial herbaceous plants, mainly due to its high biomass yield and multiple uses. It can be grown as a fodder, ornamentally, for energy (mainly as a biogas source), and as a honey crop (source of nectar and pollen for pollinators). Despite the considerable qualities of this crop, the Silphium cultivation area in Europe is small. The main limiting factors are the significant costs of plantation establishment and the lack of biomass yield in the first year of cultivation. Considering these aspects, research was undertaken at the Agricultural Experimental Station Lipnik of West Pomeranian University of Technology Szczecin, to assess two methods of establishing a plantation: generative, by sowing seeds (seeds); and vegetative, by transplanting seedlings grown from seeds (planting), on the yield and quality of Silphium biomass attended for combustion and its heating value and chemical composition. In 2016–2019, annual aboveground biomass was harvested after the end of vegetation to obtain the raw material for combustion. The collected dry mass yield (DMY) of Silphium significantly differed between the years and methods of establishing the plantation. The biomass yields increased in the first two years of full vegetation from 9.3 to 18.1 Mg∙ha−1·yr−1, and then decreased in the third year of vegetation to ca. 13 Mg∙ha−1·yr−1 because of drought. Significantly higher DMY was obtained by sowing seeds (ca. 13.9 Mg∙ha−1·yr−1) compared to the planting method (ca. 13.0 Mg∙ha−1·yr−1), due to the higher plant density obtained after the sowing method compared to the planting method. The calorific value in the third year was the highest and amounted to ca. 17.8 MJ·kg−1 DM. The paper also presents changes in soil chemical properties before and after four years of Silphium cultivation.
Just Don’t Fall: An AI Agent’s Learning Journey Towards Posture Stabilisation
Authors: Hossny Mohammed , Iskander Julie
Published: June 2020

Learning to maintain postural balance while standing requires a significant, fine coordination effort between the neuromuscular system and the sensory system. It is one of the key contributing factors towards fall prevention, especially in the older population. Using artificial intelligence (AI), we can similarly teach an agent to maintain a standing posture, and thus teach the agent not to fall. In this paper, we investigate the learning progress of an AI agent and how it maintains a stable standing posture through reinforcement learning. We used the Deep Deterministic Policy Gradient method (DDPG) and the OpenSim musculoskeletal simulation environment based on OpenAI Gym. During training, the AI agent learnt three policies. First, it learnt to maintain the Centre-of-Gravity and Zero-Moment-Point in front of the body. Then, it learnt to shift the load of the entire body on one leg while using the other leg for fine tuning the balancing action. Finally, it started to learn the coordination between the two pre-trained policies. This study shows the potentials of using deep reinforcement learning in human movement studies. The learnt AI behaviour also exhibited attempts to achieve an unplanned goal because it correlated with the set goal (e.g., walking in order to prevent falling). The failed attempts to maintain a standing posture is an interesting by-product which can enrich the fall detection and prevention research efforts.
Activity and Pool Use in Relation to Temperature and Water Changes in Zoo Hippopotamuses (Hippopotamus amphibious)
Authors: Fernandez Eduardo J. , Ramirez Martin , Hawkes Nancy C.
Published: June 2020

In the wild, hippopotamuses spend much of their daily activity in the water. In zoos, it is less clear the extent to which hippos spend time in the water. We examined how much time Woodland Park Zoo’s three hippos spent in their outdoor pool, based on: (a) temperature of the pool water, and (b) when the pool water was changed (approximately three times a week). Several digital temperature data loggers collected water and air temperature readings once every hour for six months. We correlated the water temperature readings with several behaviors the hippos could engage in, where the hippos were on exhibit (pool vs. land), and how many days it had been since a dump (0, 1, or 2 days). The results indicated that water changes had little effect on pool usage, while increasing water temperatures resulted in both increased activity and pool use. The results are discussed in terms of how these findings relate to wild hippo activity, current knowledge of zoo-housed hippo welfare, and future directions for zoo-housed hippo welfare and research.
The Effect of Climate Parameters on Sheep Preferences for Outdoors or Indoors at Low Ambient Temperatures
Authors: Piirsalu Peep , Kaart Tanel , Nutt Irje , Marcone Giovanni , Arney David
Published: June 2020

Threshold temperatures for cold stress in sheep are not well understood, the available literature is somewhat dated and reports relate to winter temperatures that are relatively benign. Sheep’s preferences for outdoor versus indoor environments, when given free access to both, were investigated in the winter period at temperatures as low as −23 °C. Two sheep farms, one with access to a permanent uninsulated barn and one with a polytunnel shelter, both with free access to an outdoor area, were used. Observations were made with a camera positioned to register numbers of sheep outdoors and indoors, with one image taken hourly over twenty-four hours. The sheep clearly preferred to be outdoors; on all occasions the majority of the sheep were outdoors. There was, however, a significant decrease, albeit small, in the numbers of sheep choosing to be outdoors at lower temperatures (p < 0.001), higher relative humidity (p < 0.001) and greater wind chill (p < 0.001). Therefore, even at cooler temperatures than reported previously, sheep are motivated to be outdoors rather than indoors. It is not implicitly good for their welfare, and may not be true for lambs and shorn sheep, but accessing an outdoor area appears to be what they choose to do when given the choice.
Chemical Composition of Milk and Rumen Microbiome Diversity of Yak, Impacting by Herbage Grown at Different Phenological Periods on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau
Authors: Fan Qingshan , Wanapat Metha , Hou Fujiang
Published: June 2020

To estimate how native herbage of three different phenological periods modify rumen performance and milk quality of yak grazing alpine meadow. In this study, milk composition and the diversity of the rumen microbial community were measured in 12 full-grazing female yaks on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau (QTP). The nutrient composition of three phenological periods was determined: Vegetative stage (VS), bloom stage (BS), and senescent stage (SS). High-throughput sequencing of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene was used. The results showed that crude protein (CP) content of herbage in BS was higher than that in vs. and SS (p < 0.05), and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) content of herbage in SS was higher than that in vs. and BS (p < 0.05). Milk solids and fat contents were higher in the vs. and SS than in BS (p < 0.05). However, milk protein content was higher for the vs. and BS than those for SS (p < 0.05). The total volatile fatty acid (VFA), acetate, and propionate concentrations were higher in vs. and BS than in SS (p < 0.05). The community richness estimates (Chao1 estimator) of vs. were higher than that in BS and the SS (p < 0.05). The diversity indices (Shannon index) of the BS were higher than that vs. and the SS (p < 0.05). Spearman correlation analysis between the milk composition, ruminal fermentation parameters, and the relative abundances of the rumen bacteria showed that milk protein content, total VFA, acetate, and propionate concentrations were positively correlated with the relative abundances of the genera Desulfovibrio, Prevotella_1, and Butyrivibrio_2 and was negatively correlated with Olsenella, Ruminococcaceae_UCG.010, and Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group abundances. Collectively, the results revealed that there were significant differences in nutrient composition of herbage, chemical composition of yak milk, and microbial diversity in rumen at different phenological stages. The correlations between ruminal fermentation parameters, chemical constituents of yak milk, and some genera of ruminal bacteria might be indicative that the ruminal fermentation parameters and chemical constituents of yak milk are strongly influenced by the rumen bacterial community composition.
Efficiency of Semen Cryopreservation in Stallions
Authors: Aurich Jörg , Kuhl Juliane , Tichy Alexander , Aurich Christine
Published: June 2020

Differences in the cryotolerance of spermatozoa exist among stallions, but it remains to be determined to what extent such differences are affected by breed. In this study, post-thaw semen quality in stallions presented for semen cryopreservation was analysed retrospectively (1012 ejaculates from 134 stallions of 5 breeds). The percentage of frozen–thawed ejaculates acceptable for artificial insemination (AI) and the number of insemination doses per cryopreserved ejaculate was calculated. Logistic regression analysis revealed sperm motility in raw semen as the most important explanatory variable for the percentage of cryopreserved ejaculates with a post-thaw quality acceptable for AI. Of the other variables included into the model, stallion age was the most important parameter with more acceptable ejaculates in younger than in older stallions. Logistic regression also showed more acceptable frozen–thawed ejaculates in Arab stallions versus Warmbloods, Quarter Horses and Icelandic horses. The analysis thus demonstrates differences in the percentage of acceptable cryopreserved ejaculates among horse breeds. Season was a less relevant explanatory variable for percentage of acceptable cryopreserved ejaculates. Logistic regression revealed total sperm count as the most important variable determining the number of cryopreserved semen doses obtained per acceptable ejaculate. In conclusion, logistic regression analysis revealed stallion age and breed as explanatory variables for the percentage of cryopreserved ejaculates acceptable for AI.
Efficiency of Crude Protein Utilisation in Grazing Dairy Cows: A Case Study Comparing Two Production Systems Differing in Intensification Level in New Zealand
Authors: Correa-Luna Martín , Donaghy Daniel , Kemp Peter , Schutz Michael , López-Villalobos Nicolas
Published: June 2020

In this study, we modelled and compared lactation curves of efficiency of crude protein utilisation (ECPU) and the nitrogen (N) excreta partitioning of milking cows of two contrasting spring-calving pasture-based herds to test some aspects of farming intensification practices on cow performance and N partition. In the low-intensity production system (LIPS), 257 cows were milked once-daily and fed diets comprised of pasture with low supplementary feed inclusion during lactation (304 kg pasture silage/cow). In the high-intensity production system (HIPS), 207 cows were milked twice-daily and fed pasture with higher supplementary feed inclusion (429 kg pasture silage and 1695 kg concentrate/cow). The dietary crude protein (CP) utilisation was calculated for each cow at every herd test date as the ECPU as a proportion of protein yield (PY) from the CP intake (CPI) derived from intake assessments based on metabolisable energy requirements, and the CP balance (CPB) calculated as the difference between CPI and PY. Total N excreta partitioned to faeces (FN) and urine (UN) was estimated by back-calculating UN from FN, considering dietary N, and from N retained in body tissues, taking into account live weight change during the lactation. The higher CPI (2.7 vs. 2.5 kg CP/day), along with the reduced milk yield (1100 kg milk/cow less), of the LIPS cows led to a lower ECPU (23% vs. 31%) and to a higher CPB (2.1 vs. 1.8 kg CP/day) when compared to the HIPS cows. Mean N excreta, and particularly UN, was significantly higher in LIPS cows, and this was explained by higher dietary CP and by the reduced PY when compared to the HIPS cows. Reducing the low-CP supplementation in the “de-intensified” herd lessened the ECPU, resulting in higher UN, which is sensitive in terms of body water eutrophication.
Targeting Dendritic Cells with Antigen-Delivering Antibodies for Amelioration of Autoimmunity in Animal Models of Multiple Sclerosis and Other Autoimmune Diseases
Authors: Iberg Courtney A. , Hawiger Daniel
Published: June 2020

The specific targeting of dendritic cells (DCs) using antigen-delivering antibodies has been established to be a highly efficient protocol for the induction of tolerance and protection from autoimmune processes in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), a model of multiple sclerosis (MS), as well as in some other animal disease models. As the specific mechanisms of such induced tolerance are being investigated, the newly gained insights may also possibly help to design effective treatments for patients. Here we review approaches applied for the amelioration of autoimmunity in animal models based on antibody-mediated targeting of self-antigens to DCs. Further, we discuss relevant mechanisms of immunological tolerance that underlie such approaches, and we also offer some future perspectives for the application of similar methods in certain related disease settings such as transplantation.
A Novel Derivative of Thioridazine Shows Low Toxicity and Efficient Activity against Gram-Positive Pathogens
Authors: Jørgensen Nadia S. , Saaby Lasse , Andersson Anne M. , Kromann Sofie , Sheikhsamani Ehsan , Permin Anders , Ronco Troels , Svenningsen Søren W. , Christensen Jørn B. , Olsen Rikke H.
Published: June 2020

Thioridazine hydrochloride (HCl) has been suggested as a promising antimicrobial helper compound for the treatment of infections with antimicrobial-resistant bacteria. Unfortunately, the therapeutic concentration of thioridazine HCl is generally higher than what can be tolerated clinically, in part due to its toxic side effects on the central nervous system. Therefore, we aimed to synthesize a less toxic thioridazine derivative that would still retain its properties as a helper compound. This resulted in a compound designated 1-methyl-2-(2-(2-(methylthio)-10H-phenothiazin-10-yl)ethyl)-1-pentylpiperidin-1-ium bromide (abbreviated T5), which exhibited low blood–brain barrier permeability. The lowest minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) against Staphylococcus aureus exposed to the novel compound was reduced 32-fold compared to thioridazine HCl (from 32 µg/mL to 1 µg/mL). The MIC values for T5 against five Gram-positive pathogens ranged from 1 µg/mL to 8 µg/mL. In contrast to thioridazine HCl, T5 does not act synergistically with oxacillin. In silico predictive structure analysis of T5 suggests that an acceptably low toxicity and lack of induced cytotoxicity was demonstrated by a lactate dehydrogenase assay. Conclusively, T5 is suggested as a novel antimicrobial agent against Gram-positive bacteria. However, future pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies are needed to clarify the clinical potential of this novel discovery.
Nrf2 Activator PB125® as a Potential Therapeutic Agent against COVID-19
Authors: McCord Joe M. , Hybertson Brooks M. , Cota-Gomez Adela , Geraci Kara P. , Gao Bifeng
Published: June 2020

Nrf2 is a transcription factor that regulates cellular redox balance and the expression of a wide array of genes involved in immunity and inflammation, including antiviral actions. Nrf2 activity declines with age, making the elderly more susceptible to oxidative stress-mediated diseases, which include type 2 diabetes, chronic inflammation, and viral infections. Published evidence suggests that Nrf2 activity may regulate important mechanisms affecting viral susceptibility and replication. We examined gene expression levels by GeneChip microarray and by RNA-seq assays. We found that the potent Nrf2-activating composition PB125® downregulates ACE2 and TMPRSS2 mRNA expression in human liver-derived HepG2 cells. ACE2 is a surface receptor and TMPRSS2 activates the spike protein for SARS-CoV-2 entry into host cells. Furthermore, in endotoxin-stimulated primary human pulmonary artery endothelial cells, we report the marked downregulation by PB125 of 36 genes encoding cytokines. These include IL-1-beta, IL-6, TNF-α, the cell adhesion molecules ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and E-selectin, and a group of IFN-γ-induced genes. Many of these cytokines have been specifically identified in the “cytokine storm” observed in fatal cases of COVID-19, suggesting that Nrf2 activation may significantly decrease the intensity of the storm.
Protoflavone-Chalcone Hybrids Exhibit Enhanced Antitumor Action through Modulating Redox Balance, Depolarizing the Mitochondrial Membrane, and Inhibiting ATR-Dependent Signaling
Authors: Latif Ahmed Dhahir , Jernei Tamás , Podolski-Renić Ana , Kuo Ching-Ying , Vágvölgyi Máté , Girst Gábor , Zupkó István , Develi Sedef , Ulukaya Engin , Wang Hui-Chun , Pešić Milica , Csámpai Antal , Hunyadi Attila
Published: June 2020

Hybrid compounds combine fragments with complementary targets to achieve a common pharmacological goal. This approach represents an increasingly popular strategy for drug discovery. In this work, we aimed to design antitumor hybrid compounds based on an inhibitor of ataxia-telangiectasia and Rad3-related protein (ATR)-dependent signaling, protoapigenone, and a pro-oxidant ferrocene or chalcone fragment. Four new triazole-coupled hybrids were prepared. The compounds were cytotoxic against human breast cancer cell lines in vitro, showing IC50 values in the sub-micromolar range. The nature of interactions between relevant fragments of the hybrids was evaluated by the Chou–Talalay method. Experimental combination treatment with the fragments showed additive effects or slight/moderate synergism, while strong synergism was observed when the fragments were virtually combined into their hybrids, suggesting a relevant pharmacological benefit of the coupling. All hybrids were strong inhibitors of the ATR-mediated activation of Chk1, and they interfered with the redox balance of the cells leading to mitochondrial membrane depolarization. Additionally, they induced late apoptosis and primary necrosis in MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 breast cancer cells, respectively. Our results demonstrate that coupling the ATR-dependent signaling inhibitor protoflavone with a pro-oxidant chalcone dramatically increases the antitumor activity compared with either fragment alone. Such compounds may offer an attractive novel strategy for the treatment of various cancers.
Eicosanoids and Oxidative Stress in Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Wang Mong-Heng , Hsiao George , Al-Shabrawey Mohamed
Published: June 2020

Oxidative stress is an important factor to cause the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy (DR) because the retina has high vascularization and long-time light exposition. Cyclooxygenase (COX), lipoxygenase (LOX), and cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes can convert arachidonic acid (AA) into eicosanoids, which are important lipid mediators to regulate DR development. COX-derived metabolites appear to be significant factors causative to oxidative stress and retinal microvascular dysfunction. Several elegant studies have unraveled the importance of LOX-derived eicosanoids, including LTs and HETEs, to oxidative stress and retinal microvascular dysfunction. The role of CYP eicosanoids in DR is yet to be explored. There is clear evidence that CYP-derived epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs) have detrimental effects on the retina. Our recent study showed that the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) activation augments retinal soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH), a crucial enzyme degrading EETs. Our findings suggest that EETs blockade can enhance the ability of RAS blockade to prevent or mitigate microvascular damage in DR. This review will focus on the critical information related the function of these eicosanoids in the retina, the interaction between eicosanoids and reactive oxygen species (ROS), and the involvement of eicosanoids in DR. We also identify potential targets for the treatment of DR.
The Integrative Role of Sulforaphane in Preventing Inflammation, Oxidative Stress and Fatigue: A Review of a Potential Protective Phytochemical
Authors: Ruhee Ruheea Taskin , Suzuki Katsuhiko
Published: June 2020

Cruciferous vegetables hold a myriad of bioactive molecules that are renowned for possessing unique medicinal benefits. Sulforaphane (SFN) is one of the potential nutraceuticals contained within cruciferous vegetables that is useful for improving health and diseased conditions. The objective of this review is to discuss the mechanistic role for SFN in preventing oxidative stress, fatigue, and inflammation. Direct and indirect research evidence is reported to identify the nontoxic dose of SFN for human trials, and effectiveness of SFN to attenuate inflammation and/or oxidative stress. SFN treatment modulates redox balance via activating redox regulator nuclear factor E2 factor-related factor (Nrf2). SFN may play a crucial role in altering the Keap1/Nrf2/ARE pathway (an intricate response to many stimuli or stress), which induces Nrf2 target gene activation to reduce oxidative stress. In addition, SFN reduces inflammation by suppressing centrally involved inflammatory regulator nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), which in turn downregulates the expression of proinflammatory cytokines and mediators. Exercise may induce a significant range of fatigue, inflammation, oxidative stress, and/or organ damage due to producing excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inflammatory cytokines. SFN may play an effective role in preventing such damage via inducing phase 2 enzymes, activating the Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway or suppressing nuclear translocation of NF-κB. In this review, we summarize the integrative role of SFN in preventing fatigue, inflammation, and oxidative stress, and briefly introduce the history of cruciferous vegetables and the bioavailability and pharmacokinetics of SFN reported in previous research. To date, very limited research has been conducted on SFN’s effectiveness in improving exercise endurance or performance. Therefore, more research needs to be carried out to determine the effectiveness of SFN in the field of exercise and lifestyle factors.
The Impact of Acetyl-CoA and Aspartate Shortages on the N-Acetylaspartate Level in Different Models of Cholinergic Neurons
Authors: Zyśk Marlena , Sakowicz-Burkiewicz Monika , Pikul Piotr , Kowalski Robert , Michno Anna , Pawełczyk Tadeusz
Published: June 2020

N-acetylaspartate is produced by neuronal aspartate N-acetyltransferase (NAT8L) from acetyl-CoA and aspartate. In cholinergic neurons, acetyl-CoA is also utilized in the mitochondrial tricarboxylic acid cycle and in acetylcholine production pathways. While aspartate has to be shared with the malate–aspartate shuttle, another mitochondrial machinery together with the tricarboxylic acid cycle supports the electron transport chain turnover. The main goal of this study was to establish the impact of toxic conditions on N-acetylaspartate production. SN56 cholinergic cells were exposed to either Zn2+ overload or Ca2+ homeostasis dysregulation and male adult Wistar rats’ brains were studied after 2 weeks of challenge with streptozotocin-induced hyperglycemia or daily theophylline treatment. Our results allow us to hypothesize that the cholinergic neurons from brain septum prioritized the acetylcholine over N-acetylaspartate production. This report provides the first direct evidence for Zn2+-dependent suppression of N-acetylaspartate synthesis leading to mitochondrial acetyl-CoA and aspartate shortages. Furthermore, Zn2+ is a direct concentration-dependent inhibitor of NAT8L activity, while Zn2+-triggered oxidative stress is unlikely to be significant in such suppression.
Non-esterified Fatty Acid-Induced Reactive Oxygen Species Mediated Granulosa Cells Apoptosis Is Regulated by Nrf2/p53 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Wang Yiru , Li Chengmin , Li Julang , Wang Genlin , Li Lian
Published: June 2020

Negative energy balance (NEB) during the perinatal period can affect dairy cow follicular development and reduce the fecundity. Non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) concentration is elevated during NEB, and is known to be toxic for multiple cell types. In the ovary, NEB increased NEFA, and may influences follicular growth and development. However, the effect and mechanism of NEFA on granulosa cells (GCs) in vitro remains unknown. In this study, we found that NEFA dose-dependently induced apoptosis in primary cultured granulosa cells. Mechanistically, our data showed that NEFA significantly increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, resulting in the activation of endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) and eventually cell apoptosis in GCs. Moreover, NEFA also increased the phosphorylation levels of ERK1/2 and p38MAPK pathways, upregulated the expression of p53 and potentially promoted its translocation to the nuclear, thus transcriptionally activated Bax, a downstream gene of this pathway. NEFA also promoted nuclear factor E2 (Nrf2) expression and its level in the nuclear. To elucidate the mechanism of NEFA action, N-acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC), a ROS scavenger was used to verify the role of ROS in NEFA induced apoptosis of GCs. NAC pretreatment reversed the NEFA-induced ERS-related protein and apoptosis-related protein levels. Meanwhile, NAC pretreatment also blocked the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and p38 induced by NEFA, and the nucleation of Nrf2 and p53, suggesting that ROS plays a crucial role in regulating the NEFA-induced apoptosis of GCs. Together, these findings provide an improved understanding of the mechanisms underlying GCs apoptosis, which could potentially be useful for improving ovarian function.
Toxicity of Necrostatin-1 in Parkinson’s Disease Models
Authors: Alegre-Cortés Eva , Muriel-González Alicia , Canales-Cortés Saray , Uribe-Carretero Elisabet , Martínez-Chacón Guadalupe , Aiastui Ana , López de Munain Adolfo , Niso-Santano Mireia , Gonzalez-Polo Rosa A. , Fuentes José M. , Yakhine-Diop Sokhna M. S.
Published: June 2020

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that is characterized by the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta. This neuronal loss, inherent to age, is related to exposure to environmental toxins and/or a genetic predisposition. PD-induced cell death has been studied thoroughly, but its characterization remains elusive. To date, several types of cell death, including apoptosis, autophagy-induced cell death, and necrosis, have been implicated in PD progression. In this study, we evaluated necroptosis, which is a programmed type of necrosis, in primary fibroblasts from PD patients with and without the G2019S leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) mutation and in rotenone-treated cells (SH-SY5Y and fibroblasts). The results showed that programmed necrosis was not activated in the cells of PD patients, but it was activated in cells exposed to rotenone. Necrostatin-1 (Nec-1), an inhibitor of the necroptosis pathway, prevented rotenone-induced necroptosis in PD models. However, Nec-1 affected mitochondrial morphology and failed to protect mitochondria against rotenone toxicity. Therefore, despite the inhibition of rotenone-mediated necroptosis, PD models were susceptible to the effects of both Nec-1 and rotenone.
Deep Learning-Based Wrapped Phase Denoising Method for Application in Digital Holographic Speckle Pattern Interferometry
Authors: Yan Ketao , Chang Lin , Andrianakis Michalis , Tornari Vivi , Yu Yingjie
Published: June 2020

This paper presents a new processing method for denoising interferograms obtained by digital holographic speckle pattern interferometry (DHSPI) to serve in the structural diagnosis of artworks. DHSPI is a non-destructive and non-contact imaging method that has been successfully applied to the structural diagnosis of artworks by detecting hidden subsurface defects and quantifying the deformation directly from the surface illuminated by coherent light. The spatial information of structural defects is mostly delivered as local distortions interrupting the smooth distribution of intensity during the phase-shifted formation of fringe patterns. Distortions in fringe patterns are recorded and observed from the estimated wrapped phase map, but the inevitable electronic speckle noise directly affects the quality of the image and consequently the assessment of defects. An effective method for denoising DHSPI wrapped phase based on deep learning is presented in this paper. Although a related method applied to interferometry for reducing Gaussian noise has been introduced, it is not suitable for application in DHSPI to reduce speckle noise. Thus, the paper proposes a new method to remove speckle noise in the wrapped phase. Simulated data and experimental captured data from samples prove that the proposed method can effectively reduce the speckle noise of the DHSPI wrapped phase to extract the desired information. The proposed method is helpful for accurately detecting defects in complex defect topography maps and may help to accelerate defect detection and characterization procedures.
Techno-Economic Analysis of a Novel Hydrogen-Based Hybrid Renewable Energy System for Both Grid-Tied and Off-Grid Power Supply in Japan: The Case of Fukushima Prefecture
Authors: Takatsu Naoto , Farzaneh Hooman
Published: June 2020

After the Great East Japan Earthquake, energy security and vulnerability have become critical issues facing the Japanese energy system. The integration of renewable energy sources to meet specific regional energy demand is a promising scenario to overcome these challenges. To this aim, this paper proposes a novel hydrogen-based hybrid renewable energy system (HRES), in which hydrogen fuel can be produced using both the methods of solar electrolysis and supercritical water gasification (SCWG) of biomass feedstock. The produced hydrogen is considered to function as an energy storage medium by storing renewable energy until the fuel cell converts it to electricity. The proposed HRES is used to meet the electricity demand load requirements for a typical household in a selected residential area located in Shinchi-machi in Fukuoka prefecture, Japan. The techno-economic assessment of deploying the proposed systems was conducted, using an integrated simulation-optimization modeling framework, considering two scenarios: (1) minimization of the total cost of the system in an off-grid mode and (2) maximization of the total profit obtained from using renewable electricity and selling surplus solar electricity to the grid, considering the feed-in-tariff (FiT) scheme in a grid-tied mode. As indicated by the model results, the proposed HRES can generate about 47.3 MWh of electricity in all scenarios, which is needed to meet the external load requirement in the selected study area. The levelized cost of energy (LCOE) of the system in scenarios 1 and 2 was estimated at 55.92 JPY/kWh and 56.47 JPY/kWh, respectively.
Preliminary Investigation of the Antibacterial Activity of Antitumor Drug 3-Amino-1,2,4-Benzotriazine-1,4-Dioxide (Tirapazamine) and its Derivatives
Authors: Polmickaitė-Smirnova Evelina , Šarlauskas Jonas , Krikštopaitis Kastis , Lukšienė Živilė , Staniulytė Zita , Anusevičius Žilvinas
Published: June 2020

The antitumor drug 3-amino-1,2,4-benzotriazine-1,4-dioxide (tirapazamine, TPZ (1)) along with a number of newly synthesized tirapazamine derivatives (TPZs) bearing substitutions at the 3-amine position of TPZ (1) were estimated for their antibacterial activity against representative Gram-negative Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922) and Salmonella enterica (SL 5676), as well as Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25923) bacterial strains. Their activities in terms of minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) varied in the range of 1.1 µM (0.25 µg/mL)–413 µM (128 µg/mL). Amongst the most potent derivatives (1–6), acetyl- and methoxycarbonyl-substituted TPZs (2 and 4) were the strongest agents, which exhibited approximately 4–30 fold greater activities compared to those of TPZ (1) along with the reference drugs chloramphenicol (CAM) and nitrofurantoin (NFT). The inhibitory activities of the compounds were highly impacted by their structural features. No reliable relationships were established between activities and the electron-accepting potencies of the whole set of studied compounds, while the activities of TPZ drug (1) and the structurally uniform set of molecules (2–6) were found to increase with an increase in their electron-accepting potencies obtained by means of density functional theory (DFT) computation. A greater steric, lipophilic and polar nature of the substituents led to a lower activity of the compounds. The combined antibacterial in vitro trial gave clear evidence that TPZs coupled with the commonly utilized antibiotics ciprofloxacin (Cipro) and nitrofurantoin (NFT) could generate enhanced (suggestive of partial and virtually complete synergistic) and additive effects. The strongest effects were defined for TPZs–NFT combinations, which resulted in a notable reduction in the MICs of di-N-oxides. These preliminary findings suggest that the synthesized novel di-N-oxides might be used as sole agents or applied as antibiotic complements.
The Microbiota of Edam Cheeses Determined by Cultivation and High-Throughput Sequencing of the 16S rRNA Amplicon
Authors: Nalepa Beata , Ciesielski Sławomir , Aljewicz Marek
Published: June 2020

The aim of this study was to evaluate the microbiome of industrially produced ripened Edam cheeses by next-generation sequencing. The samples for analyses were collected in spring and autumn. Spring samples were characterized by significantly higher Lactococcus and Bacillus counts and lower counts of Enterobacteriaceae, Enterococcus, and yeasts than autumn samples. The predominant microorganisms identified by the Illumina high-throughput sequencing technology belonged to four phyla: Firmicutes, Actinobacteria, Proteobacteria and Bacteroidetes. The dominant species were starter culture bacteria. Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus kefiri, Lactobacillus kefiranofaciens, Lactobacillus casei, Streptococcus thermophilus, and Bifidobacterium had the highest share of microbial cheese communities. The number of γ-Proteobacteria reads was higher in autumn cheese samples. A high number of reads was also noted in the genus Clostridium. The counts of spore-forming bacteria of the genus Bacillus were higher in cheeses produced in spring. The study revealed highly similar relationships between the analyzed production periods. The present results contribute to the existing knowledge of cheese microbiota, and they can be used to improve and modify production processes based on the composition of microbial communities, as well as to improve the quality of the final product.
Development of a Simulation Model for HMT of a 50 kW Class Agricultural Tractor
Authors: Baek Seung-Min , Kim Wan-Soo , Kim Yeon-Soo , Baek Seung-Yun , Kim Yong-Joo
Published: June 2020

This study was conducted to develop a simulation model of a 50 kW class hydro mechanical transmission (HMT) tractor and to verify the model by comparing the measured and simulated data, including the axle torque, rotational speed, and power transmission efficiency. The platform of the HMT was composed of the engine, hydrostatic unit (HSU), compound planetary gear, range shift, spiral bevel gear, and final reduction gear. The HMT had three gear stages and a maximum forward speed of 40 km/h. To evaluate the performance of the HTM, a test bench was installed based on the engine of the HMT platform, and a simulation model was developed using 3D simulation software. To compare the results of the simulation, a bench test using the platform was performed according to the gear stages. The similarities between the measured and simulated data were analyzed using the t-test. As a result, there were no significant differences for the axle torque, rotational speed, and power transmission efficiency. Finally, the power transmission efficiency between the measured and simulated results was compared and analyzed using linear regression analysis to validate the accuracy of the simulation model. The trend of the power transmission efficiency between the measured and simulated results appeared to be similar in all sections, and we obtained a simulation model with the accuracy of an R-squared value of more than 0.97. In conclusion, the measured and simulated results were similar to each other. Considering the results of this study, it will be useful to develop the HMT tractor and to improve the power transmission efficiency for the optimal design.
Effect of Co-Ingestion of Collagen Peptides with Yogurt on Blood Absorption of Short Chain Hydroxyproline Peptides
Authors: Iwasaki Yu , Taga Yuki , Suzuki Asahi , Kurokawa Mihoko , Sato Yoshio , Shigemura Yasutaka
Published: June 2020

Collagen peptides (CP) have been used as functional foods for enhancing skin and joint health. Further degradation of CP results in peptide sizes small enough to enter the bloodstream following absorption in the small intestine. We examined the effects of food matrices on CP degradation into short chain peptides and absorption efficiency after ingestion. Changes to hydroxyproline (Hyp)-containing peptide levels in CP after yogurt fermentation and in human plasma by co-ingestion of CP and yogurt, with or without fermentation, were evaluated by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). The fermentation of CP with yogurt resulted in the significant degradation of CP into several Hyp-containing peptides such as Ala-Hyp, Leu-Hyp, Phe-Hyp, Ala-Hyp-Gly, and Leu-Hyp-Gly. CP ingestion after yogurt fermentation significantly increased the plasma concentrations of Phe-Hyp, cyclo(Ala-Hyp), and cyclo(Pro-Hyp) compared to water-based CP ingestion. The co-ingestion of CP and yogurt without fermentation significantly increased the plasma levels of Ala-Hyp, Phe-Hyp, Ala-Hyp-Gly, Leu-Hyp-Gly, Pro-Hyp-Gly, cyclo(Ala-Hyp), cyclo(Glu-Hyp), and cyclo(Pro-Hyp). Overall, the co-ingestion of CP and yogurt with or without fermentation significantly enhanced the absorption of CP-derived peptides, represented by the high Cmax and area under the curve per 1 h (AUC, nmol/h·mL) of Hyp-containing peptides. These results suggest that, in addition to increasing short chain Hyp-containing peptide levels via fermentation, yogurt matrices containing milk-derived peptides and/or lactic acid bacteria-derived peptidases may influence the efficient absorption of CP-derived peptides into human blood.
Blood Pressure Estimation Algorithm Based on Photoplethysmography Pulse Analyses
Authors: Kim Seon-Chil , Cho Sung-Hyoun
Published: June 2020

Though small wrist-type blood pressure (BP) measurement devices using simple sensors have recently been developed, they lack accuracy and require the input of personal user data. To miniaturize BP measurement devices, this study proposes the use of algorithms that can calculate BP using sensors that utilize only two photoplethysmographies (PPGs), without the need for electrocardiograms. To reduce the error of indirect BP measurement, specific values representing individual blood vessel conditions are improved via the application of an algorithm developed using mean arterial pressure and PPG phase difference. To reduce the error that occurs when measuring BP using PPG, a specific value algorithm used to develop a miniaturized BP measuring device using two PPGs is proposed along with a new model. The developed ultra-small PPG measuring device uses a reflective photoplethysmography measurement circuit. This is presented as a PPG-only model that deviates from the method of additionally linking existing electrocardiography (ECG). The measurement device developed in this study is compared with the air-pressurized automatic BP measurement device in terms of the BP measurement value; the result of maintaining the error stably at 5% is derived to prove the superiority of the algorithm.
Multi-Objective Optimization of Three Different SMA-LRBs for Seismic Protection of a Benchmark Highway Bridge against Real and Synthetic Ground Motions
Authors: Hosseini Reyhaneh , Rashidi Maria , Bulajić Borko Đ. , Arani Kamyar Karbasi
Published: June 2020

Many researchers have taken advantage of adding shape memory alloy (SMA) wires to base isolators to control displacements and residual deformations. In the literature, different arrangements of SMA wires wrapped around the rubber bearings can be found, as examples, straight, cross and double-cross arrangements. SMA wires with various configurations and radii lead to the different characteristics of the isolator system and thus various shear hysteresis. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate the performance of these three SMA wire’s configurations in the seismic retrofitting of a benchmark highway bridge by implementing them in the bridge’s existing lead rubber bearings (LRB). This system is referred to as SMA-LRB isolator. Firstly, because of the crucial influence of the wire’s radius, this parameter is determined using a multi-objective optimization algorithm (non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm (NSGA)-II). This algorithm simultaneously minimizes the deck acceleration and mid-span displacement. Secondly, the optimized SMA-LRBs are implemented in the highway bridge and nonlinear dynamic analysis is conducted. For the nonlinear response history analysis, two strong ground motion records are selected from the PEER database, by studying the site’s conditions. In addition, ten synthetic ground acceleration time histories are generated. The result illustrates that the double-cross SMA-LRB reduces the maximum and residual displacements more than two other devices; however, it causes the largest base shear force and deck acceleration. Besides, the cross-configuration results in the least displacement reduction and has the least shear force and acceleration. To find SMA-LRB with the best overall performance, a multi-objective decision-making method is utilized and the straight SMA-LRB is recognized as the most effective isolator.