bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aneau, des Emblèmes d'Alciat et de l'Imagination poétique aux Métamorphoses d'Ovide: pratique d'un commentaire
Authors: Malenfant Marie Claude , Moisan Jean-Claude
Published: June 2020

La pratique du commentaire chez Aneau, telle qu'elle s'affine dans son oeuvre d'emblématiste, de traducteur et de commentateur, "emblématise" cette tendance renaissante où l'interprétant des textes réitère la glose séculaire tout en s'appropriant cette tradition. Ainsi le commentaire anellien évolue, de 1549 à 1556, d'une pratique "intertextuelle" à une pratique "autoréférentielle:" l’intertexte qu'Aneau sollicite en marge des Trois Premiers Livres de la Metamorphose convie dès lors sa propre autorité, au même titre que celle des glossateurs qui le précèdent.
Early English Protestantism and Renaissance Poetics: The Charge is Committing Fiction in the Matter of Rastell v. Frith
Authors: Herman Peter C.
Published: June 2020

The debate between John Rastell and John Frith constitutes a previously unrecognized ancestor to Stephen Gosson's attack on poetry and Sir Philip Sidney's (problematic) defense of it. Although the nominal aim of Rastell's A Newe Boke of Purgatorye and Frith's A Disputation of Purgatory is theological disputation, in fact these texts constitute an implicit defense of and attack on fictions. Consequently, they form an important background for the Elizabethan and Jacobean "war against poetry."
Celebrations held in Siena during the Government of the Nine
Authors: Moran Gordon , Mallory Michael
Published: June 2020

In fourteenth-century Siena the government of the Nine functioned very much within alliances with the leading Guelf powers. This article studies celebrations of Guelf victories in Siena, as depicted in the famous castle cycle of the Palazzo Pubblico and described in the writings of Benvoglienti.
Copernican Ideas in Sixteenth Century France
Authors: Heller Henry
Published: June 2020

The French religious wars were marked by intolerance and fanaticism. At the same time the ability of the established church and state to enforce religious and intellectual conformity was seriously undermined. In this atmosphere of crisis and relative intellectual freedom the old Aristotelian and scholastic certainties were shaken. As a result Copernicus' heliocentric theory became a subject of debate between different schools of thought. Conservatives regarded the notion of heliocentricity as a token of religious, moral and intellectual subversion. Neo-Platonists, sceptics and Ramists used the heliocentric idea as a means of attacking philosophical orthodoxy. The intellectual openness of the period prepared the ground for the reception of Galileo's version of Copernicanism at the beginning of the next century.
The "Honest Style" of Ben Jonson's Epigrams and The Forest
Authors: Crowley James P.
Published: June 2020

During his imprisonment for the murder of Gabriel Spencer in 1598, Ben Jonson converted to the outlawed Roman Catholic Church, and for the next 12 years made no attempt to conceal his recusant status. Jonson's biography and the historical documents treating conversion and recusancy offer evidence of the importance Jonson placed on codified religion, and provide a distinctly religious context for much of what has been long assumed to be an exclusively classically-based secular ethics operating in his writing.
Anagrams etc. The Interpretive Dilemmas of Lady Eleanor Douglas
Authors: Pickard Richard
Published: June 2020

The period 1620-1660 saw the emergence of several English women, of varying classes, who chose Biblical prophecy as an entry into public, political discourse. Many of these women, such as Hester Biddle and Margaret Fell Fox, stated their opinions with relative clarity. Lady Eleanor Douglas, however, made a career of powerfully impenetrable, allusion-filled writing. This paper proposes some methods of addressing Douglas's texts, and works through some particularly difficult passages.
Le théâtre au service de la cause universitaire à la Renaissance
Authors: Roy Lyse
Published: June 2020

Cette étude retrace l'histoire la production théâtrale à l’Université de Caen à la fin du Moyen Âge et au début de la Renaissance. Elle s'intéresse particulièrement à la production de la Farce de Pates-Ouaintes, oeuvre présumée de Pierre de Lesnauderie. Cette pièce permet de comprendre les liens entre le théâtre et l'institution universitaire pendant le conflit de la décime.
La fantaisie et la nature des femmes dans l'Heptaméron de Marguerite de Navarre
Authors: Malenfant Marie Claude
Published: June 2020

Les occurrences de fantaisie dans l’Heptaméron de Marguerite de Navarre instaurent une différenciation entre les sexes des personnages du récit-cadre et des contes. Mais lorsqu'on considère la façon dont s'enflamme la fantaisie de l'un et l'autre sexe, les conséquences de cette flamme, puis la manière dont l'être peut et doit ensuite réagir, il apparaît que cette différenciation tient peut-être moins à la nature spécifique des sexes qu'à l'éthique et la pratique sociales qui leur imposent une nature différente.
Marie Dentière et la prédication des femmes
Authors: Skenazi Cynthia
Published: June 2020

Dans son Epistre très utile (1539), Marie Dentière s'approprie le modèle de la prédication donné par Farel pour dénoncer avec fougue la corruption de l'Église romaine. La réaction de Farel et de Calvin à l'activité d'une femme qui, en outre, contrairement aux interdits religieux, prêche en public à Genève est moins négative qu'il n'y paraît. Dans ce sens, l'oeuvre de cette ancienne abbesse de Tournai, excommuniée, pourrait avoir constitué un premier pas vers la remise en cause du silence des femmes dans l'Église.
Civic Rivalry and the Boundaries of Civic Identity in the French Wars of Religion: Châlons-sur-Marne and the Towns of Champagne
Authors: Konnert Mark
Published: June 2020

An examination of the policies and actions of the city council of the Champagne town of Châlons-sur-Marne during the French Wars of Religion qualifies the view that the wars spelled the end of the bonne ville. In particular, this article examines Châlons' rivalries with the other towns of the region. The civil wars of the Catholic League in the late 1580s and early 1590s provided the opportunity to gain by military means what had previously been sought by bureaucratic. Yet at the same time that the city councillors were pursuing the traditional agenda of the bonne ville, they were also illustrating the dynamic of its demise, for the prizes over which these rivalries were fought were royal institutions. They were playing an old game for new stakes.
The Missing Dialogue Concerning the Will Between Erasmus and Luther
Authors: McCutcheon Robert R.
Published: June 2020

For all their doctrinal antagonism, the treatises on the will of Erasmus and Luther betray a fundamental affinity in their twofold ambiva-lence toward dialogue: whether a fundamental issue like the will should be debated at all; and whether dialogue is the appropriate vehicle for such a discussion. In both works, vestiges and adumbrations of literary dialogue suggest that the debate between Erasmus and Luther is as much literary as theological.
Marie de Gournay cont(r)e la tradition: Du Proumenoir de Monsieur de Montaigne aux versions de l'Éneide
Authors: Debaisieux Martine
Published: June 2020

Cette étude considère le rapport entre le récit du Proumenoir de Monsieur de Montaigne et la traduction du second livre de l'Énéide lui faisant suite dans le recueil qui marque les débuts littéraires de Marie de Gournay (1594). Au-delà des liens entre l'histoire tragique d'Alinda et celle de Didon, l'analyse d'un système de renvois et de revirements dans certaines variantes des éditions ultérieures permet de discerner le rejet progressif de l'autorité des modèles chez un auteur pour qui le processus d'amplification dépasse clairement la visée d'élucidation.
Thomas More's Utopia: Preface to Reformation
Authors: Gordon Walter M.
Published: June 2020

Recent studies have stressed the ambiguity of Thomas More's Utopia. Although the essay does not argue against this view, it does point to the clear and basic contention of the work which, if lost, makes it impossible to come to grips with the questions the book poses. Utopia criticizes the upper, not the lower class and leans towards moral reform, but with an incertitude concerning the externals of this sorely needed change. As such it anticipates Reformation.
Thomas Phaer and the Assertion of Tudor English
Authors: Bowers Rick
Published: June 2020

Thomas Phaer's many printed works, including legal and medical texts, occasional verses, and classical translations, all insist upon - even assert - English as a language suitable for learned consciousness. As a physician, legal theorist, man of letters, and member of Parliament, Phaer represents a new English praxis of cultural and intellectual communication. His life and work are centered in the vicissitudes of Tudor polity, wherein he works to mobilize the vernacular and, in so doing, assert early modern English culture.
"What should we do?": The Predicament of Practical Reason in Hamlet
Authors: Levy Eric P.
Published: June 2020

Fondamentalement, ce qui se passe dans Hamlet ne concerne ni l'action ni les antécédents de l'action, mais la mise en cause de la doctrine de l'action rationnelle, donc de la raison pratique. La conséquence de cette critique radicale est de réviser la fin des intentions humaines ainsi que les actes intentionnels par lesquels elles sont réalisées. Au moyen d'un processus analogue à la purgation mentionnée par le revenant de son père, Hamlet développe progressivement une moralité qui transcende le modèle aristotélicien et thomiste.
miR-146a is a pivotal regulator of neutrophil extracellular trap formation promoting thrombosis
Authors: Ana B. Arroyo  , María P. Fernández-Pérez  , Alberto del Monte  , Sonia Águila  , Raúl Méndez  , Rebecca Hernández-Antolín  , Nuria García-Barber  , Ascensión M de los Reyes-García  , Paula González-Jiménez  , María I. Arcas  , Vicente Vicente  , Rosario Menéndez  , Vicente Andrés  , Rocío González-Conejero  , Constantino Martínez
Published: June 2020

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) induce a procoagulant response linking inflammation and thrombosis. Low levels of miR-146a, a brake of inflammatory response, are involved in higher risk for cardiovascular events, but the mechanisms explaining how miR-146a exerts its function remain largely undefined. The aim of this study was to explore the impact of miR-146a deficiency in NETosis both, in sterile and non-sterile models in vivo, and to inquire into the underlying mechanism. Two models of inflammation were performed: 1) Ldlr-/- mice transplanted with bone marrow from miR-146a-/- or wild type (WT) were fed high-fat diet, generating an atherosclerosis model; and 2) an acute inflammation model was generated by injecting lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (1 mg/Kg) into miR-146a-/- and WT mice. miR-146a deficiency increased NETosis in both models. Accordingly, miR-146a-/- mice showed significant reduced carotid occlusion time and elevated levels of NETs in thrombi following FeCl3-induced thrombosis. Infusion of DNAse I abolished arterial thrombosis in WT and miR-146a-/- mice. Interestingly, miR-146a deficient mice have aged, hyperreactive and pro-inflammatory neutrophils in circulation that are more prone to form NETs independently of the stimulus. Furthermore, we demonstrated that community acquired pneumonia (CAP) patients with reduced miR-146a levels associated with the T variant of the functional rs2431697, presented an increased risk for cardiovascular events due in part to an increased generation of NETs.
Factors Responsible for Utero-Vaginal Prolapse Among Women Attending at a District Hospital of Bangladesh
Authors: Khanam Shireen Akhter , Rashid Fahmida , Sharmin Shahnaz , Sharmin Shahnaz , Satter Kamrun , Nigad Anjuman
Published: June 2020

Background : Utero vaginal prolapse is a big health problem in Bangladesh. The aim of this study was to calculate prevalence of uterine prolapse and to find out the possible factors that are responsible for this disease among patients attended at Chattogram General Hospital (250 bedded) Bangladesh.

Materials and methods: It was a descriptive study which was done between November 2016 to August 2017. This analysis was restricted to a sample that included all women complaints of uterine prolapse diagnosed and treated at Chattogram General Hospital.

Results: During a 10 months period, 100 women were diagnosed and treated with uterine prolapse. The prevalence of utero-vaginal prolapse is 4.2%. The mean age at the time of clinical presentation was 40 years. In average, the women gave birth to four children vaginally. 20% of the women were smokers and 84% of them were postmenopausal. 10% of the affected patients had a Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) 41% suffered from hypertension and 15% had diabetes mellitus. The majority of the women with uterine prolapse reported that they were working heavily during perinatal period (78%).

Conclusion : In this study several risk factors for uterine prolapse, specially extensive physical labor during pregnancy and immediately after delivery, 100% unavailability of skilled births attendants, smoking while having COPD and low food adequacy during perinatal period are mainly responsible for this common disease.

Chatt Maa Shi Hosp Med Coll J; Vol.18 (2); July 2019; Page 33-36
Robotlara Karşı Gerçek Kişilerin Korunması Gerekliliği ve Robot Vergisi Önerisi
Authors: GEDİK Gülşen
Published: June 2020

Robot teknolojilerin ortaya çıkması ile sunulan hizmet ve yaratılan katma değer çalışmalarında önemli biçimde yaklaşım değişimleri yaşanmaktadır. Dijital süreçlerin hızla ilerlediği günümüzde, kurumlar daha az vergi ödemek ve daha fazla kazanç elde etmek amacıyla gerçek kişi çalışanları istihdam etmekten giderek kaçınır hale gelecekler ve dolayısıyla devletin vergi gelirinde azalma yaşanacak teknolojik işsizlik büyük bir ekonomik sorun yaratacaktır. Bu nedenle devletin, gerçek kişi istihdamını koruyabilmesinin en önemli yolu, kurumlar için robot vergisi düzenlemesi yapmasıdır.
Devleti Öğretme Biçimi Olarak Siyaset Bilimi ve Fransa'daki Kökleri
Authors: AKKAYA Rukiye
Published: June 2020

Siyasetin kurumsallaşmış bir eğitim merkezinde öğretilmesi, Platon’un Akademiasına kadar gitse de çağdaş anlamda bu alana özgülenen, belirli bir müfredata bağlı eğitim kurumlarının açılması oldukça yenidir. Émile Boutmy’nin öncülüğünde, 1871’de Paris’te açılan “École libre des Sciences Politiques” bu eğitim kurumlarının örneklerinden biridir. “École libre des Sciences Politiques”, devleti istisnai bir biçimde öğretme iddiası ile açılmıştır. Pozitivizmin, yükseldiği dönemde, hukuk fakültelerindeki eğitiminin dönüştüğü bir evrede; bu okul, Fransız entelektüellerinin çocuklarının geleceği için bir alternatif yaratma amacı taşıyordu. Böyle bir okulun açılması, sadece belli bir kesimin eğitimine yönelik yararcı bir yaklaşım olarak değerlendirilemez. Boutmy; o dönemde Fransa’daki yüksek öğrenim kurumlarında yaşanan, çağını anlamayan, siyasi düşünce fakirliğinden bahsediyor ve “Siyasal Bilimler Okulu’nun”, “devlet bilimi” dersini öğretme görevini yüklendiğini savunuyordu. Çünkü bu dönemde; Fransa’da, modern devletin siyasal kurumları, demokratik yönetimin inşasıyla dönüşmektedir. “Devlet bilimi”, bu dönüşümü adeta sosyal bir sanat gibi açıklayabilmeli ve idari dokuyu yönlendiren elitlere, bu sanatı öğretmeliydi.

Okul, bir meslek okulu değildi. Mezunlarını belirli bir kariyere hazırlamıyordu. Boutmy’nin asıl amacı; yeni bürokratik yapının nasıl tasnif edildiğini, bir yönetim bilimleri ansiklopedisi içinde ortaya koymaktı.

Böylece bilimsel olarak, politika ve devlet arasındaki bağlantıyı, anlamak ve anlatmak kolaylaşacaktır. “Devleti bilmek için ve devleti öğretmek için” özel bir okul açmak şaşırtıcı değil miydi? Hayır değildi. Çünkü Siyaset Bilimi’nin yükselişi, yeni bir toplum dokusunun anlaşılmasına yardım ediyordu. Bu; yüzyıllardır devleti anlatan literatürle harmanlanmış ama ondan bağımsız ve uygulamayı ihmal etmeyen, stilize bir öğrenme biçimiydi.
Cumhurbaşkanlığı Hükümet Sisteminde Cumhurbaşkanlığı Politika Kurulları
Authors: EROL Ömer Faruk
Published: June 2020

2017 Anayasa değişikliği ile Cumhurbaşkanlığı hükümet sistemi kabul edilmiştir. Yeni yürütme sistemi ile birlikte hem idari teşkilatlanmada hem de idari işleyişte önemli değişiklikler meydana gelmiştir. Bu değişikliklerden birisi Cumhurbaşkanlığı Politika Kurulları ve kurulların yapacağı politika oluşturma faaliyetleridir. Çalışma kapsamında, kurulların idari teşkilatlanmadaki yeri ve faaliyetlerinin niteliği ile Cumhurbaşkanlığı hükümet sisteminde kurulların işlevsel olarak yeri ve önemi incelenecektir.
COVERS AND TABLE OF CONTENTS
Authors: Pembelajaran Matematika dan
Published: June 2020

COVERS AND TABLE OF CONTENTS
The chronicles of coronaviruses: the bronchitis, the hepatitis and the common cold
Authors: Lalchhandama Kholhring
Published: June 2020

Coronaviruses first appeared as chicken virus that cause respiratory disease. Historical reconsideration tells that coronavirus infection originated in the early 20th century. The first definitive account of the infection was given by Arthur Schalk and Merle Fawn in 1931 as a “new respiratory disease of baby chicks.” Leland Bushnell and Carl Brandly established virus as the causative agent in 1933 and was called infectious bronchitis virus (IBV), which eventually became the coronavirus type species. An apparently unrelated viral infection was discovered from laboratory mice in 1949 as JHM that caused encephalomyelitis and another in 1951 as mouse hepatitis virus (MHV). Study in the 1960s of viruses causing common colds in humans revealed unusual human viruses (designated B814 and 229E as the sample codes). Development of transmission electron microscopy enabled structural visualisation for the first around time ­and with startling revelation – IBV, MHV, B814 and 229E were fundamentally the same virus having characteristic halo around the spherical viral core, a reminisce of solar corona for which they get a new name, coronaviruses, in 1968. The available historical records are incomplete and sometimes inaccurately represented, and this article attempt to mend the flaws whilst giving a more detailed account.
Insulin Resistance Induced by Maximal Exercise Correlates With a Post-Exercise Increase in Uridine Concentration in the Blood of Healthy Young Men
Authors: DUDZINSKA W. , LUBKOWSKA A. , JAKUBOWSKA K. , SUSKA M. , SKOTNICKA E.
Published: June 2020

Uridine is postulated to participate in the development of insulin resistance. Since exercise is an effective tool in the treatment of insulin resistance it appeared justified to assess the impact of maximal exercise on plasma uridine and insulin sensitivity indices (e.g. insulin and HOMA-IR) in healthy subjects. The study included forty-four healthy males (18.5±2.92 years, VO2max 50.2±6.26 ml kg-1 min-1). Subjects performed a single maximal exercise on a bicycle ergometer. Blood samples were taken three times: immediately before exercise, immediately after exercise and at the 30th min of rest. Uridine concentrations were determined in the whole blood using high-performance liquid chromatography. Serum insulin levels were measured by a specific ELISA method. Insulin sensitivity was assessed by homeostasis model assessment method (HOMA-IR). A maximal exercise-induced increase in the concentration of uridine correlated with post-exercise increases in insulin levels and HOMA-IR. Our results indicate a relationship between the concentration of uridine in the blood and indicators of insulin sensitivity in healthy subjects. We are the first to demonstrate that a maximal exercise-induced increase in the concentration of uridine is correlated with post-exercise increases in insulin levels and HOMA-IR in healthy subjects. It appears that uridine may be an indicator of insulin resistance.
Determination of rational PID regulator of the diesel gas microprocessor system
Authors: Kovbasenko Serhii , Golyk Andriy , Petrenko V. G. , Hutarevych Serhii
Published: June 2020

The article analyzes the influence of the components of the PID regulator of the diesel gas microprocessor system on the gas injection time by injectors under exploitation conditions.
Keywords: diesel engine, gas diesel engine, CNG, PID regulator.
Voluntary certification of wheeled vehicle parts and equipment
Authors: Skurotyany Yurii , Stuchinsky M. O. , Ponomareva Yuliya
Published: June 2020

The article describes the procedure of voluntary certification of spare parts and accessories for wheeled vehicles in certification system of State Enterprise “State Road Transport Research Institute”.
Keywords: application, the applicant, voluntary certification, certificate of conformity, quality management certificate, voluntary certification mark, marking, testing
Effects of Using an Alternative Bedding Composition on the Levels of Indicator Microorganisms and Mammary Health in Dairy Farm Conditions
Authors: Zigo František , Sasáková Nad’a , Gregová Gabriela , Výrostková Jana , Ondrašovičová Silvia
Published: June 2020

The aim of this study was to compare an improved bedding composition with conventional straw bedding under farm conditions, regarding its effects on the influence of indicator microorganisms on the hygiene levels of cubicle floors and the occurrence of mastitis in dairy cows. Dairy cows were housed in newly built stalls divided into two parts, each with four subsections, and bedded cubicles arranged in three rows. Five stall subsections from each 9-bedded cubicle were selected for study, and 30 dairy cows were monitored according to the time intervals of bedding treatment for cubicles. In the first subsection (control), the cows were housed in bedded cubicles layered with straw up to a height of 20 cm. Sections 2–5 had alternative bedding (AB) as follows: fresh AB, AB 1 month old, AB 2 months old, and AB 3 months old, which were bedded one day before (fresh) and 1–3 months before the actual observation period, respectively. The alternative bedding per one cubicle consisted of ground limestone (100 kg), water (80 L), recycled manure solids (RMS; 15 kg), and straw (25 kg). After laying, the bedding was treated with a concrete selector to provide strength and sufficient resistance. A total of 180 bedding and 600 quarter milk samples were taken simultaneously from all five monitored subsections for microbiological determination. Comparing classical straw bedding with the alternate bedding showed a stabilizing effect by keeping the bedding thickness up to the floor barrier level, which had a beneficial effect by reducing the level of fecal contamination in the rear of the cubicle. Fecal coliforms and fecal streptococci were found to be reduced in one-day-old bedding as well as after the first, second, and third months. By evaluating the health status of the mammary glands, a positive effect was noted in reducing the occurrence of subclinical mastitis, which was reflected in a reduced number of infected quarters in the group of cows housed in cubicles for three months after use of improved bedding.
Energy, Production and Environmental Characteristics of a Conventional Weaned Piglet Farm in North West Spain
Authors: Fernandez Maria D. , Losada Eugenio , Ortega Juan A. , Arango Tamara , Ginzo-Villamayor María José , Besteiro Roberto , Lamosa Santiago , Barrasa Martín , Rodriguez Manuel R.
Published: June 2020

Postweaning is one of the most sensitive and energy-demanding phases of swine production. The objective of this research was to assess the energy, production and environmental characteristics of a conventional farm with temperature-based environmental control. The selected energy, environmental and production variables were measured on farm, in a high livestock density area of NW Spain, for seven production cycles. The quantification of variables was aimed at obtaining the maximum performance with the lowest possible use of resources, focusing on animal welfare and production efficiency. The Brown–Forsythe, Welch and Games-Howell tests revealed significant differences in terms of temperature, relative humidity and CO2 concentrations among production cycles, and among the critical, postcritical and final periods. Improved humidity management resulted in a 17% reduction of climate control energy, which involved energy savings in the range of 33% to 47% per kg produced at the end of the postweaning cycle. Accordingly, adding humidity as a control variable could result in higher ventilation rates, thereby improving animal welfare, reducing heating energy use and increasing weight gain per unit climate control energy. In addition, the strong correlations found between heating energy and relative humidity (R2 = 0.73) and ventilation energy and CO2 (R2 = 0.99) suggest that these variables could be readily estimated without additional sensor costs.
Integrating Biochar and Inorganic Fertilizer Improves Productivity and Profitability of Irrigated Rice in Ghana, West Africa
Authors: MacCarthy Dilys S. , Darko Eric , Nartey Eric K. , Adiku Samuel G. K. , Tettey Abigail
Published: June 2020

The efficiency of mineral fertilizer use in most soils in Sub-saharan Africa is low. Prominent among the reasons for this is low soil carbon stock. In this study, we hypothesized that in the short term, combined use of biochar and inorganic fertilizer in irrigated rice (Oryza sativa var KRC Baika) cropping systems will increase soil organic carbon storage, N recovery and agronomic efficiency of N use (above world average of 55% and 20 kg grain·kg−1·N respectively) and improved economic returns compared to the sole use of inorganic fertilizer. A two-year (4‒cropping cycles) field trial was, thus, conducted on a Vertisol. The experiments were designed as split–plot with two (0 and 10 t·ha−1) biochar and four (0, 45, 90, 120 kg·ha−1·N) nitrogen application rates. Additionally, the effect of biochar on the chemical properties of the soil was investigated using standard protocols. Biochar application improved the soil organic carbon storage in the topsoil. There were significant interactions between the application of biochar and nitrogen fertilizer on yield parameters. Introducing biochar significantly increased root volume and nutrient (N, P and K) uptake, resulting in increased grain and straw yield. Grain yields under biochar amended plots were higher than sole fertilizer amended plots in 14 out of 16 instances (cropping cycles × N rates). The increase in grain yield was between 12 to 29% across N rates. Biochar amendment also enhanced agronomic N use and apparent N recovery efficiencies in 3 out of the 4 cropping cycles. Gross margin indicated that biochar application under irrigated rice cropping systems is economically feasible in all cropping cycles and N rates. However, the value cost ratio of biochar application was higher than for sole inorganic fertilizer in three out of the four cropping cycles (each cropping cycle has three N rates). The soil organic carbon storage of biochar amended soil increased by 17% under unfertilized condition and by 32% under fertilized condition. To enable the promotion and efficient use of the biochar technology in enhancing productivity and profitability in irrigated rice, extension officers and farmers will need to be trained on how to char the rice husk to reduce emissions prior to upscaling the technology to farmers.
Hemp-Based Phytoaccumulation of Heavy Metals from Municipal Sewage Sludge and Phosphogypsum Under Field Conditions
Authors: Zielonka Dariusz , Szulc Wiesław , Skowrońska Monika , Rutkowska Beata , Russel Stefan
Published: June 2020

The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of three hemp cultivars to accumulate heavy metals under sewage sludge (SS) and phosphogypsum (PG) application. The field study was carried out from 2014 to 2016 on Luvisol (loamy sand) in Poland. The experiment scheme included five treatments—T0: the control without fertilization, T1: 170 kg N (nitrogen) ha−1 from sewage sludge, T2: 170 kg N ha−1 from sewage sludge and 100 kg ha−1 of phosphogypsum, T3: 170 kg N ha−1 from sewage sludge and 500 kg ha−1 of phosphogypsum, and T4: 170 kg N ha−1 from sewage sludge and 1000 kg ha−1 of phosphogypsum. It was found that the application of municipal sewage sludge enriched the soil with the bioavailable forms of heavy metals to the greatest extent and contributed to the highest increase in their contents in vegetative and generative organs of hemp plants. These parameters showed a phosphogypsum dose-dependent decline, which could hinder the phytoextraction process. The greatest extractions of heavy metal(loid)s (HMs) from the soil treated with SS and PG were achieved by the Tygra variety, which had the highest bioconcentration factor (BCF) and biomass yield.
Genetic Parameters of Linear Type Traits Scored at 30 Months in Italian Heavy Draught Horse
Authors: Folla Fabio , Sartori Cristina , Mancin Enrico , Pigozzi Giuseppe , Mantovani Roberto
Published: June 2020

The Italian Heavy Draught Horse (IHDH) breed is selected based on linear type traits (LTT) evaluated at young age on six-month-old foals. However, animals retained for reproduction are scored also at adults age (about 30 months), and the evaluation is mandatory for the final official admission to the stud book of candidate mares and stallions. This study aimed to estimate genetic parameters of LTT scored at 30 months to consider if they are feasible for selection instead of using foal data and to reduce costs of selection plan. Data included 19 years of evaluation for 14 LTT and an overall score. Analyses were performed on 5835 females and 856 males via animal model. The heritability ranged from 0.03 (upper line length) to 0.40 (frame size). Traits of selection interest (head size and expression; temperament/movement; fleshiness; fore diameter; rear diameter) reported heritability between 0.21 and 0.31. High genetic correlations were obtained among traits related to muscular development, 0.73 on average. Positive genetic trends were found in traits of selection interest, already selected from foal type trait data. Accounting for genetic parameters estimated in adult animals instead in foals is feasible in IHDH selection.
Consequences of Transition Treatments on Fertility and Associated Metabolic Status for Dairy Cows in Early Lactation
Authors: Ma Junnan , van Hoeij Renny J. , Bruckmaier Rupert M. , Kok Akke , Lam Theo J. G. M. , Kemp Bas , van Knegsel Ariette T. M.
Published: June 2020

This study aimed to (1) investigate effects of reducing postpartum dietary energy level for cows after a 0-d dry period (DP) on resumption of ovarian cyclicity and reproductive performance, (2) relate days open with other reproductive measures, and (3) relate onset of luteal activity (OLA) and days open with metabolic status in early lactation. Holstein-Friesian dairy cows were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 transition treatments: no DP and low postpartum dietary energy level from 22 days in milk( DIM )onwards (0-d DP (LOW)) (n = 42), no DP and standard postpartum dietary energy level (0-d DP (STD)) (n = 43), and a short DP and standard postpartum dietary energy level (30-d DP (STD)) (n = 43). Milk progesterone concentration was determined three times per week until 100 DIM. Plasma metabolite and hormone concentrations were measured weekly until week 7 postpartum. Reducing postpartum dietary energy level in older cows (parity ≥ 3) after no DP and 22 DIM did not affect milk production but prevented a positive energy balance and shortened the interval from calving to OLA. In addition, services per pregnancy and days open were reduced in cows of parity ≥ 3 on 0-d DP (LOW), compared with cows of parity ≥ 3 with 0-d DP (STD), but not in cows of parity 2.
Perioperative Antibiotic Prophylaxis: Knowledge and Attitudes among Resident Physicians in Italy
Authors: Pelullo Concetta Paola , Pepe Angela , Napolitano Francesco , Coppola Nicola , Di Giuseppe Gabriella
Published: June 2020

The aim of this study is to evaluate knowledge and attitudes on the perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis (PAP) among surgery and anesthesiology resident physicians in Italy. A Web-based national survey of Italian surgery and anesthesiology resident physicians was conducted between March 2018 and January 2019. Participants completed a questionnaire and three case vignettes for each specialty. Of the 1282 resident physicians selected, 466 completed the online questionnaire for a response rate of 36.3%. More than half of the sample were female (52.9%), and the mean age was 30 years. A total of 36.3% of the participants had an adequate knowledge score about PAP. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that resident physicians in general surgery compared to those in anesthesiology, those who agreed that PAP must be performed within 60 min before surgical incision, and those who were aware regarding the availability about the availability of national guidelines on PAP, were significantly more likely to have adequate knowledge about PAP. Moreover, 14% of participants were very concerned that patients may contract surgical site infections during hospitalization. These findings should be useful to promote educational intervention specifically targeted for surgery and anesthesiology resident physicians organizing training course on PAP, to improve the correct antibiotic use and to prevent healthcare-associated infections.
Impact of the APE1 Redox Function Inhibitor E3330 in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Cells Exposed to Cisplatin: Increased Cytotoxicity and Impairment of Cell Migration and Invasion
Authors: Manguinhas Rita , Fernandes Ana S. , Costa João G. , Saraiva Nuno , Camões Sérgio P. , Gil Nuno , Rosell Rafael , Castro Matilde , Miranda Joana P. , Oliveira Nuno G.
Published: June 2020

Elevated expression levels of the apurinic/apyrimidinic endonuclease 1 (APE1) have been correlated with the more aggressive phenotypes and poor prognosis of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This study aimed to assess the impact of the inhibition of the redox function of APE1 with E3330 either alone or in combination with cisplatin in NSCLC cells. For this purpose, complementary endpoints focusing on cell viability, apoptosis, cell cycle distribution, and migration/invasion were studied. Cisplatin decreased the viability of H1975 cells in a time- and concentration-dependent manner, with IC50 values of 9.6 µM for crystal violet assay and 15.9 µM for 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium (MTS) assay. E3330 was clearly cytotoxic for concentrations above 30 µM. The co-incubation of E3330 and cisplatin significantly decreased cell viability compared to cisplatin alone. Regarding cell cycle distribution, cisplatin led to an increase in sub-G1, whereas the co-treatment with E3330 did not change this profile, which was then confirmed in terms of % apoptotic cells. In addition, the combination of E3330 and cisplatin at low concentrations decreased collective and chemotactic migration, and also chemoinvasion, by reducing these capabilities up to 20%. Overall, these results point to E3330 as a promising compound to boost cisplatin therapy that warrants further investigation in NSCLC.
Esculetin as a Bifunctional Antioxidant Prevents and Counteracts the Oxidative Stress and Neuronal Death Induced by Amyloid Protein in SH-SY5Y Cells
Authors: Pruccoli Letizia , Morroni Fabiana , Sita Giulia , Hrelia Patrizia , Tarozzi Andrea
Published: June 2020

Oxidative stress (OS) appears to be an important determinant during the different stages of progression of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). In particular, impaired antioxidant defense mechanisms, such as the decrease of glutathione (GSH) and nuclear factor erythroid 2 (NF-E2)-related factor 2 (Nrf2), a master regulator of antioxidant genes, including those for GSH, are associated with OS in the human AD brain. Among the neuropathological hallmarks of AD, the soluble oligomers of amyloid beta (A) peptides seem to promote neuronal death through mitochondrial dysfunction and OS. In this regard, bifunctional antioxidants can exert a dual neuroprotective role by scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS) directly and concomitant induction of antioxidant genes. In this study, among natural coumarins (esculetin, scopoletin, fraxetin and daphnetin), we demonstrated the ability of esculetin (ESC) to prevent and counteract ROS formation in neuronal SH-SY5Y cells, suggesting its profile as a bifunctional antioxidant. In particular, ESC increased the resistance of the SH-SY5Y cells against OS through the activation of Nrf2 and increase of GSH. In similar experimental conditions, ESC could also protect the SH-SY5Y cells from the OS and neuronal death evoked by oligomers of A1–42 peptides. Further, the use of the inhibitors PD98059 and LY294002 also showed that Erk1/2 and Akt signaling pathways were involved in the neuroprotection mediated by ESC. These results encourage further research in AD models to explore the efficacy and safety profile of ESC as a novel neuroprotective agent.
In vitro Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Anti-metabolic Syndrome, Antimicrobial, and Anticancer Effect of Phenolic Acids Isolated from Fresh Lovage Leaves [Levisticum officinale Koch] Elicited with Jasmonic Acid and Yeast Extract
Authors: Jakubczyk Anna , Złotek Urszula , Szymanowska Urszula , Rybczyńska-Tkaczyk Kamila , Jęderka Krystyna , Lewicki Sławomir
Published: June 2020

Lovage seedlings were elicited with jasmonic acid (JA) and yeast extract (YE) to induce the synthesis of biologically active compounds. A simulated digestion process was carried out to determine the potential bioavailability of phenolic acids. Buffer extracts were prepared for comparison. The ability to neutralize ABTS radicals was higher in all samples after the in vitro digestion, compared to that in the buffer extracts. However, the elicitation resulted in a significant increase only in the value of the reduction power of the potentially bioavailable fraction of phenolic acids. The effect of the elicitation on the activity of the potentially bioavailable fraction of phenolic acids towards the enzymes involved in the pathogenesis of the metabolic syndrome, i.e., ACE, lipase, amylase, and glucosidase, was analyzed as well. The in vitro digestion caused a significant increase in the ability to inhibit the activity of these enzymes; moreover, the inhibitory activity against alpha-amylase was revealed only after the digestion process. The potential anti-inflammatory effect of the analyzed extracts was defined as the ability to inhibit key pro-inflammatory enzymes, i.e., lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase 2. The buffer extracts from the YE-elicited lovage inhibited the LOX and COX-2 activity more effectively than the extracts from the control plants. A significant increase in the anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties was noted after the simulated digestion.
A Performance Improvement Strategy for Solenoid Electromagnetic Actuator in Servo Proportional Valve
Authors: Wang Shijie , Weng Zhidan , Jin Bo
Published: June 2020

This study presents a simulation model, optimization strategy and the experimental validation of a solenoid electromagnetic actuator that is widely used in industry components, especially in pneumatic/hydraulic valves. In the preliminary design, a two-dimensional magnetostatic finite element analysis (FEA) model is proposed and verified by static push-force comparisons between the two-dimensional FEA model, the three-dimensional FEA model and the experimental results. Then, a static and dynamic performance improvement strategy is proposed. To optimize the static push-force of the actuator, a static multi-objective optimization strategy for actuator structure parameters was developed based on a genetic algorithm. An experimental analysis of dynamic performance was carried out to improve the dynamic response of the actuator. By using a high-precision measuring device in the static-push-force test and dynamic direct current-input-signal tests, the comparisons results between the manufactured conventional actuator and the manufactured optimal actuators showed that the proposed optimization strategy was feasible. Through the static optimization strategy, the average static push-force in the working stroke was improved by 21.8%. Moreover, through the dynamic optimization strategy, the cutoff frequency of the push force response was improved by 129.1%, 79.6% and 74.3%, respectively, at three key positions in the working stroke.
Phytochemical Characterization and Bioactivity Evaluation of Autumn Olive (Elaeagnus umbellata Thunb.) Pseudodrupes as Potential Sources of Health-Promoting Compounds
Authors: Gamba Giovanni , Donno Dario , Mellano Maria Gabriella , Riondato Isidoro , De Biaggi Marta , Randriamampionona Denis , Beccaro Gabriele Loris
Published: June 2020

Autumn olive (Elaeagnus umbellata Thunb.) is a deciduous shrub tree widely distributed in Asia and Southern Europe and grown as ornamental species. It is locally used for human consumption, as relevant medical value is attributed to the berries. Information about its composition, especially concerning the characterization of bioactive and health-promoting compounds, is limited. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the main bioactive compounds and nutraceutical proprieties of autumn olive fruits, via high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) fingerprint and spectrophotometric analysis, in order to strengthen the knowledge about this underrated species and promote potential applications as a food supplement. Concerning nutraceutical traits, total polyphenolic content (325.366 ± 13.019 mg of gallic acid equivalents (mg GAE)/100 of fresh weight (g FW)) and total anthocyanin content (194.992 ± 0.817 mg of cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (mg C3G)/100 g FW) recorded considerable values. The phytochemical fingerprint revealed the presence 23 bioactive compounds. Polyphenols (65.56%) were the largest class, followed by monoterpenes (27.40%) and vitamin C (7.04%). Anthocyanins were the most represented compounds among polyphenols (71.9%). The antioxidant capacity (20.031 ± 1.214 mmol Fe2+/kg) was similar to that recorded for other small fruits with proven health-promoting properties. The present work underlined the potential of E. umbellata as a source of health-promoting bioactive compounds. Further studies should deepen the knowledge of nutraceutical aspects, which turned out to be interesting.
An Intelligent Approach to Allocating Resources within an Agent-Based Cloud Computing Platform
Authors: De la Prieta Fernando , Rodríguez-González Sara , Chamoso Pablo , Demazeau Yves , Corchado Juan Manuel
Published: June 2020

The cloud computing paradigm has the ability to adapt to new technologies and provide consistent cloud services. These features have led to the widespread use of the paradigm, making it necessary for the underlying computer infrastructure to cope with the increased demand and the high number of end users. Platforms often use classical mathematical models for this purpose, helping assign computational resources to the services provided to the final user. Although this kind of model is valid and widespread, it can be refined through intelligent techniques. Therefore, this research presents a novel system consisting of a multi-agent system, which integrates a case-based reasoning system. The resulting system dynamically allocates resources within a cloud computing platform. This approach, which is distributed and scalable, can learn from previous experiences and produce better results in each resource allocation. A model of the system has been implemented and tested on a real cloud platform with successful results.
Tribological Properties of Different Types of Graphene Nanoplatelets as Additives for the Epoxy Resin
Authors: Campo Mónica , Jiménez-Suárez Alberto , Ureña Alejandro
Published: June 2020

The use of graphene nanoplatelets for several purposes such as barrier properties and structural health monitoring is widely studied in polymer-based coating technology. Nevertheless, their extremely good effect on wear resistance makes them particularly interesting for coating technology. The effect of graphene nanoplatelets addition on the wear behaviour of an epoxy resin was analysed. The effects of graphene nanoplatelets content (0–8 wt.%), morphology and functionalization in wear behaviour were analysed by evaluating the main wear parameters of the nanocomposites studied. The morphology of the wear surfaces was analysed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and 3D optical profilometry in order to evaluate the mechanism and severity of wear. The results showed that the wear behaviour of the epoxy resin improved considerably with the addition of graphene, especially for higher contents. Moreover, as the wear mechanism depends on the morphology of graphene nanoplatelets, it was concluded that the proper selection of graphene can be made depending on the chosen application.
Estimation of Cyclic Demand in Metallic Yielding Dampers Installed on Frame Structures
Authors: Morillas Leandro , Escolano-Margarit David
Published: June 2020

The efficacy of hysteretic dampers can be formulated as the number or equivalent inelastic cycles, or the ratio of normalised dissipated energy to displacement ductility. This parameter is used in the design of framed structures with supplemental dampers and it is strongly influenced by the impulsive effects of earthquakes and other structural parameters. This paper presents an estimate of the cyclic demand of dampers installed in reinforced concrete frames, based on nonlinear time history analyses. Statistical analyses of the results are used to highlight relevant parameters and calibrate a predictive formula and upper-bound design values. The collapse pattern of the frames seems to have no effect on the efficacy of the dampers; thus, the seismological parameters that describe impulsivity should drive the design of hysteric dampers.
Biochemical Manifestations of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Progression in Children: A Single Center Case-Control Study
Authors: Ghiga Gabriela , Gimiga Nicoleta , Timofte Daniel Vasile , Rosu Oana Maria , Poroch Vladimir , Balan Gheorghe G. , Diaconescu Smaranda
Published: June 2020

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common digestive condition, representing one of the most frequent reasons for medical examination, especially in pediatric gastroenterology departments. GERD could be associated with biochemical alterations representing either its systemic manifestations or markers of complications. The aim of our paper was to evaluate biochemical parameters secondary to GERD in children. Two hundred and sixty-seven children of both genders aged between 1 month and 18 years who displayed suggestive symptoms for this condition were included in the study and were monitored for a period of 5 years. Depending on the range of symptoms and technical possibilities, the following procedures/investigations were performed: esophageal pH monitoring and imagistic or endoscopic examination, besides specific biochemical investigations. The cohort was sub-divided into two groups: one that included 213 children with confirmed GERD who represented the study group and 54 healthy children where GERD had been excluded, the control group. Out of all the investigated children, 39.0% displayed low hemoglobin values, 43.7% displayed low values of erythrocyte indices (MCH), and 68.5% had increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) values, while increased eosinophil levels were recorded in 46.9% of the cases. Such parameters were proven to be a biomarker of suspected eosinophilic esophagitis, whereas 32.9% of the cases displayed high blood glucose values that could be correlated with gastroesophageal reflux symptoms. Other measured parameters (such as magnesium, aminotransferases and proteins) remained within the normal limits, without statistically significant differences compared to in the control group. This condition is diagnosed based on invasive investigations, which are often difficult to accept by the patients’ parents. The biochemical modifications correlated to the clinical manifestations can anticipate the progression of the disease, thus limiting the necessity of performing invasive diagnosis tests.