bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimum Water and Nitrogen Management Increases Grain Yield and Resource Use Efficiency by Optimizing Canopy Structure in Wheat
Authors: Liu Yang , Yang Mao , Yao Chunsheng , Zhou Xiaonan , Li Wei , Zhang Zhen , Gao Yanmei , Sun Zhencai , Wang Zhimin , Zhang Yinghua
Published: February 2021

Excessive nitrogen (N) application rates and serious over-exploitation of groundwater under farmer practice threatens the sustainable use of resources in the North China Plain (NCP). Crop canopy structure affects light distribution between leaves, which is important to determine crop growth. A field experiment conducted from October 2016 to June 2019 in the NCP was designed to examine whether optimum water and nitrogen management could optimize canopy characteristics to improve yield and resource use efficiency. Field treatments included: (1) an example of local farming practices, which include the addition of 330 kg N ha−1 and irrigated twice (FP), (2) a reduced N rate of 270 kg N ha−1 and irrigated twice (T1), (3) a reduced rate of N rate of 210 kg N ha−1 and irrigated once (T2), and (4) no N applied (0 kg N ha−1) and irrigated once (T3). Results showed that the highest yield was in T1 treatment during 3 years’ winter wheat growing seasons. Water use efficiency (WUE), N use efficiency (NUtE), and N partial factor productivity (PFPN) were significantly higher in T2 treatment than in FP, and the three-year average yield was 9.4% higher than that at FP. Optimum crop management practice (T1 and T2) improved canopy structure characteristics, with less relative photosynthetically active photon flux density (PPFD) penetrated of canopy and higher population uniformity as well as leaf area index, to coordinate the distribution of light within the canopy and maximize canopy light interception, resulting in higher yield and resource use efficiency. Leaf area index (LAI) and specific leaf area (SLA) were closely correlated with grain yield and WUE, while PPFD penetrated of canopy was negatively and significantly correlated with grain yield and WUE. The results indicate that canopy structure characteristics, especially PPFD and population uniformity are good indicators of yield and resource use efficiency.
Influence of Fungicide Application and Vine Age on Trichoderma Diversity as Source of Biological Control Agents
Authors: Carro-Huerga Guzmán , Mayo-Prieto Sara , Rodríguez-González Álvaro , González-López Óscar , Gutiérrez Santiago , Casquero Pedro A.
Published: February 2021

Fungi from the genus Trichoderma have a worldwide distribution and are commonly found in agricultural lands. Further, it has been described as a non-virulent and symbiont microorganism that can contribute to minimize the pernicious effects of pathogens. In the present work we have isolated Trichoderma spp. from bark of grapevine in different orchards in order to determine the influence of fungicide application and vine age on Trichoderma diversity in plant. An opposite correlation between the number of fungicides sprayed per campaign and the diversity of Trichoderma spp. isolates was found. Moreover, the older are grapevine plants the higher is the diversity of Trichoderma spp. isolates. The different Trichoderma strains isolated were tested against Phaeoacremonium minimum, a grapevine trunk pathogen, to evaluate their biocontrol capacity. Three Trichoderma strains shown a significant capacity to control P. minimum and were selected as candidates to be used as biological control agents. In addition, a rapid and easy method for isolating Trichoderma spp. from grapevine plants has been developed, which allowed to determine that the reduction in the amount of pesticide use, together with the preservation of old vineyards, lead to healthier agroecosystems containing higher levels of beneficial microorganisms.
Effects of Sources or Formulations of Vitamin K3 on Its Stability during Extrusion or Pelleting in Swine Feed
Authors: Wang Huakai , Yang Pan , Li Longxian , Zhang Nan , Ma Yongxi
Published: February 2021

Two studies were conducted to determine the stability of vitamin K3 (VK3) in swine diets during extrusion or pelleting. The two sources were menadione sodium bisulfite (MSB) and menadione nicotinamide bisulfite (MNB), and the three formulations were crystal micro-capsule formulation and micro-sphere formulation. The recovery of six types of VK3 in swine diets was investigated after extrusion at 100 °C or 135 °C in Experiment 1. The recovery of six types of VK3 was investigated when the diets were pelleted at 60 °C (low temperature; LT) or 80 °C (high temperature; HT) and the length to diameter ratios were 5.2:1 (low length to diameter ratio; LR) or 7.2:1 (high length to diameter ratio; HR) in Experiment 2. In Experiment 1, MNB recovery (72.74%) was higher than MSB recovery (64.67%) after extrusion, while recovery of VK3 of crystal (74.16%) was higher than the recovery of micro-capsule (65.25%) and micro-sphere (66.72%). The recovery of VK3 (70.88%) was higher when extruded at 100 °C than that at 135 °C (66.54%). In Experiment 2, MNB recovery (86.21%) was higher than MSB recovery (75.49%) after pelleting, while the recovery of VK3 of micro-capsule (85.06%) was higher than the recovery of crystal (81.40%) and micro-sphere (76.09%). The recovery of VK3 (75.50%) was lower after HTHR pelleting than LTLR (83.62%), LTHR (81.52%) or HTLR (82.76%) treatment. Our results show that MNB has greater stability than MSB. VK3 of crystal or VK3 of micro-capsule were recommended for extrusion or pelleting, respectively.
Effects of Rearing Aviary Style and Genetic Strain on the Locomotion and Musculoskeletal Characteristics of Layer Pullets
Authors: Pufall Amanda , Harlander-Matauschek Alexandra , Hunniford Michelle , Widowski Tina M.
Published: February 2021

Previous research indicates that the musculoskeletal development of pullets is improved when pullets are reared in aviaries compared to conventional rearing cages. However, there are considerable differences in rearing aviary design. To measure locomotion and musculoskeletal development of brown (n = 7) and white-feathered (n = 8) strains of pullets, 15 commercial flocks in three styles of rearing aviaries differing in structural complexity (n = 5 per style) were visited three times: 25.9 ± 6.67, 68.0 ± 4.78, and 112.1 ± 3.34 days of age. Locomotion (duration of standing, sitting, walking, running, flying, and rates jumping, flying, group running and walking) was analysed from videos recorded three times per day: at the beginning, middle, and end of the light cycle. Pullets for dissection were taken on visits 2 and 3. Pullets in the most complex system (style 3; S3) spent the most time locomoting throughout rearing (p < 0.05). Pullets in S3, particularly white-feathered strains, performed the highest rate of vertical transitions (p < 0.05). There were no differences in any of the proportional muscle weights between aviaries styles (p > 0.05) despite the differences in locomotion. White-feathered strains, however, had proportionally heavier pectoralis major (p < 0.0001), pectoralis minor (p < 0.0001), and lighter leg muscles (p < 0.0001) than brown-feathered strains. White-feathered strains and pullets in S3 also had proportionally stronger tibiae and femurs than brown-feathered strains and pullets housed in the least structurally complex system (style 1; S1) (p < 0.05). However, there were no differences found in the breaking strength of the radius and humerus between strain colours or aviary styles (p < 0.05). Therefore, strain, as well as differences in rearing aviary design, can affect the types of locomotion that growing pullets perform, which may, in turn, impact their skeletal development.
Sire Effects on Carcass of Beef-Cross-Dairy Cattle: A Case Study in New Zealand
Authors: Martín Natalia , Schreurs Nicola , Morris Stephen , López-Villalobos Nicolás , McDade Julie , Hickson Rebecca
Published: February 2021

There is interest in increasing the carcass value of surplus calves born in the dairy industry that are reared for beef production in New Zealand. This experiment evaluated the carcass of Angus and Hereford sires via progeny testing of beef-cross-dairy offspring grown on hill country pasture. Weight and carcass traits were analyzed from 1015 animals and 1000 carcasses of 73 sires. The mean of the progeny group means was 567 kg for live weight at slaughter, 277 kg for carcass weight, 48.9% for dressing-out, 240.3 cm for carcass length, 73.6 cm2 for eye muscle area, 7.4 mm for rib fat depth, 0.91 for marble score, 3.05 for fat color score, 3.01 for meat color score, and 5.62 for ultimate pH. Sire affected (p < 0.05) carcass size and fat traits, but not fat color, meat color, or ultimate pH (p > 0.05). There was a 46 kg increase in carcass weight between the best and worst sires tested. Carcass fat traits were the most variable among sires. The use of genetically superior beef-breed sires over dairy-breed cows has the potential to increase carcass weights from surplus calves born in the dairy industry, while maintaining adequate fat levels and carcass quality.
Altered Expression of Peroxiredoxins in Mouse Model of Progressive Myoclonus Epilepsy upon LPS-Induced Neuroinflammation
Authors: Trstenjak Prebanda Mojca , Matjan-Štefin Petra , Turk Boris , Kopitar-Jerala Nataša
Published: February 2021

Stefin B (cystatin B) is an inhibitor of endo-lysosomal cysteine cathepsin, and the loss-of-function mutations in the stefin B gene were reported in patients with Unverricht–Lundborg disease (EPM1), a form of progressive myoclonus epilepsy. Stefin B-deficient mice, a mouse model of the disease, display key features of EPM1, including myoclonic seizures. Although the underlying mechanism is not yet completely clear, it was reported that the impaired redox homeostasis and inflammation in the brain contribute to the progression of the disease. In the present study, we investigated if lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-triggered neuroinflammation affected the protein levels of redox-sensitive proteins: thioredoxin (Trx1), thioredoxin reductase (TrxR), peroxiredoxins (Prxs) in brain and cerebella of stefin B-deficient mice. LPS challenge was found to result in a marked elevation of Trx1 and TrxR in the brain and cerebella of stefin B deficient mice, while Prx1 was upregulated only in cerebella after LPS challenge. Mitochondrial peroxiredoxin 3 (Prx3), was upregulated also in the cerebellar tissue lysates prepared from unchallenged stefin B deficient mice, while after LPS challenge Prx3 was upregulated in stefin B deficient brain and cerebella. Our results imply the role of oxidative stress in the progression of the disease.
Imperatorin Interferes with LPS Binding to the TLR4 Co-Receptor and Activates the Nrf2 Antioxidative Pathway in RAW264.7 Murine Macrophage Cells
Authors: Huang Mei-Hsuen , Lin Yu-Hsien , Lyu Ping-Chiang , Liu Yi-Chung , Chang Yuan-Shiun , Chung Jing-Gung , Lin Wei-Yong , Hsieh Wen-Tsong
Published: February 2021

Imperatorin (IMP) could downregulate several inflammatory transcription factor signaling pathways. Some studies have pointed out that IMP could interfere with toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling. This study evaluates how IMP interferes with the TLR4 co-receptors signaling through the protein-ligand docking model, Western blotting, immunofluorescence (IF), and atomic force microscopy (AFM) assays in lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulated macrophage-like RAW264.7 cells in vitro. The results of the protein-ligand docking demonstrate that IMP interferes with LPS binding to the LPS-binding protein (LBP), the cluster of differentiation 14 (CD14), and the toll-like receptor 4/myeloid differentiation factor 2 (TLR4/MD-2) co-receptors in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. Compared with TLR4 antagonist CLI-095 or dexamethasone, IMP could suppress the protein expressions of LBP, CD14, and TLR4/MD-2 in LPS-stimulated cells. Furthermore, the three-dimensional (3D) image assay of the AFM showed IMP could prevent the LPS-induced morphological change in RAW264.7 cells. Additionally, IMP could activate the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway, and it increased the antioxidative protein expression of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), superoxidase dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT). Our results are the first to reveal that the anti-inflammatory effect of IMP interferes with LPS binding to TLR4 co-receptor signaling and activates the antioxidative Nrf2 signaling pathway.
Lutein Exerts Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects and Influences Iron Utilization of BV-2 Microglia
Authors: Pap Ramóna , Pandur Edina , Jánosa Gergely , Sipos Katalin , Agócs Attila , Deli József
Published: February 2021

Lutein is a tetraterpene carotenoid, which has been reported as an important antioxidant and it is widely used as a supplement. Oxidative stress participates in many human diseases, including different types of neurodegenerative disorders. Microglia, the primary immune effector cells in the central nervous system, are implicated in these disorders by producing harmful substances such as reactive oxygen species (ROS). The protective mechanisms which scavenge ROS include enzymes and antioxidant substances. The protective effects of different carotenoids against oxidative stress have been described previously. Our study focuses on the effects of lutein on antioxidant enzymes, cytokines and iron metabolism under stress conditions in BV-2 microglia. We performed cell culture experiments: BV-2 cells were treated with lutein and/or with H2O2; the latter was used for inducing oxidative stress in microglial cells. Real-time PCR was performed for gene expression analyses of antioxidant enzymes, and ELISA was used for the detection of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines. Our results show that the application of lutein suppressed the H2O2-induced ROS (10′: 7.5 ng + 10 µM H2O2, p = 0.0002; 10 ng/µL + 10 µM H2O2, p = 0.0007), influenced iron utilization and changed the anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory cytokine secretions in BV-2 cells. Lutein increased the IL-10 secretions compared to control (24 h: 7.5 ng/µL p = 0.0274; 10 ng/µL p = 0.0008) and to 10 µM H2O2-treated cells (24 h: 7.5 ng/µL + H2O2, p = 0.0003; 10 ng/µL + H2O2, p = 0.0003), while it decreased the TNFα secretions compared to H2O2 treated cells (24 h: 7.5 ng/µL + H2O2, p < 0.0001; 10 ng/µL + H2O2, p < 0.0001). These results contribute to understanding the effects of lutein, which may help in preventing or suppressing ROS-mediated microglia activation, which is related to neuronal degeneration in oxidative stress scenario.
Changes in Glutathione Content in Liver Diseases: An Update
Authors: Vairetti Mariapia , Di Pasqua Laura Giuseppina , Cagna Marta , Richelmi Plinio , Ferrigno Andrea , Berardo Clarissa
Published: February 2021

Glutathione (GSH), a tripeptide particularly concentrated in the liver, is the most important thiol reducing agent involved in the modulation of redox processes. It has also been demonstrated that GSH cannot be considered only as a mere free radical scavenger but that it takes part in the network governing the choice between survival, necrosis and apoptosis as well as in altering the function of signal transduction and transcription factor molecules. The purpose of the present review is to provide an overview on the molecular biology of the GSH system; therefore, GSH synthesis, metabolism and regulation will be reviewed. The multiple GSH functions will be described, as well as the importance of GSH compartmentalization into distinct subcellular pools and inter-organ transfer. Furthermore, we will highlight the close relationship existing between GSH content and the pathogenesis of liver disease, such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), alcoholic liver disease (ALD), chronic cholestatic injury, ischemia/reperfusion damage, hepatitis C virus (HCV), hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatocellular carcinoma. Finally, the potential therapeutic benefits of GSH and GSH-related medications, will be described for each liver disorder taken into account.
Spatiotemporal Assessment of Air Quality and Heat Island Effect Due to Industrial Activities and Urbanization in Southern Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Salman Abeer , Al-Tayib Manahil , Hag-Elsafi Sulafa , Zaidi Faisal K. , Al-Duwarij Nada
Published: February 2021

The aim of this paper is to evaluate the air and thermal pollution in the southern suburbs of Riyadh, where people are suffering from poor air quality due to the rapid development of the industrial facilities in the area. The study involved the distribution of questionnaires to 405 residents living in that area in order to obtain their opinions about air pollution. In addition, land surface temperature and 12 components of air were measured at 18 points. In addition, the air quality data from 2016 to 2020 for Al Khaldya and Southern Ring Road air stations were assessed. Al Misfat (Oil Refinery) and the Second Industry City are significant contributors to air pollution and also result in the urban heat island effect from high temperature due to factories and industrial activities. However, all the measured components of air quality are lower than the standard limits except the element particulate matter (PM)10, which exceeds the standard limits in several parts of the study area and during several months of the year. This can surely have a negative impact on the health of residents. At the same time, this study found that the preventive measures taken to stop the spread of COVID-19 infections have led to a positive impact in the area in terms of improvement in air quality.
A New Soil Conditioner for Highly Permeable Sandy Gravel Stratum in EPBs
Authors: Lin Xin , Zhou Xiong , Yang Yuyou
Published: February 2021

Full-face water-rich gravel stratum is a large challenge during tunnel excavation with earth pressure balance shields (EPBs) because of accidents such as water spewing from the screw conveyor and ground collapse. Slurry and polymer have been used as conditioning agents to avoid such problems and thus ensure a successful tunneling. However, limited improvement of sandy gravel was achieved when traditional soil conditioner were applied. This study proposes a new conditioner (modified slurry) consisting of bentonite slurry, viscosity modifier, sodium silicate and polymer, which will enhance the properties of sand gravel stratum. Low reaction time, high apparent viscosity, good plastic behavior and low permeability were employed for investigating the optimum ratio of the ingredients. The proposed modified slurry has a good performance in conditioning sandy gravel soils and can be the reference for EPBs’ excavation in highly permeable, non-adhesive coarse-grained soil stratum.
Research on TBM Cutterhead Crack Damage and Fatigue Reliability
Authors: Wang Ding , Qu Chuanyong
Published: February 2021

The cutterhead of a tunnel-boring machine (TBM) is the main weighted part in the process of tunneling and bears loadings in different directions. A fatigue failure of a cutterhead would severely affect the construction progress and safety. Therefore, it is of great importance to study the fatigue reliability of its cracks. In this study, the area of the cutterhead with a higher stress was found using static strength analysis and we analyzed the dynamic stress characteristics. In addition, the stress intensity factor of a cutterhead crack was calculated using the submodeling technique, and the crack propagation mechanism and damage characteristics of a cutterhead crack were also analyzed. Then, combined with crack fatigue theory, we proposed a fatigue reliability evaluation method based on the Joint Committee on Structure Safety method (known as the JC method), and the effects of different factors on the reliability were discussed for different geological conditions. The results show that the crack propagation was of the open and tear types in the deepest part of the crack tip, but there are three kinds of propagation modes at both ends. As the initial crack depth increased, the fatigue reliability of the cutterhead decreased significantly. The reliability was positively correlated with the crack shape ratio. However, there were no significant relationships between the reliability and the depth of the critical crack.
Topology Optimisation in Structural Steel Design for Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Ribeiro Tiago P. , Bernardo Luís F. A. , Andrade Jorge M. A.
Published: February 2021

Topology Optimisation is a broad concept deemed to encapsulate different processes for computationally determining structural materials optimal layouts. Among such techniques, Discrete Optimisation has a consistent record in Civil and Structural Engineering. In contrast, the Optimisation of Continua recently emerged as a critical asset for fostering the employment of Additive Manufacturing, as one can observe in several other industrial fields. With the purpose of filling the need for a systematic review both on the Topology Optimisation recent applications in structural steel design and on its emerging advances that can be brought from other industrial fields, this article critically analyses scientific publications from the year 2015 to 2020. Over six hundred documents, including Research, Review and Conference articles, added to Research Projects and Patents, attained from different sources were found significant after eligibility verifications and therefore, herein depicted. The discussion focused on Topology Optimisation recent approaches, methods, and fields of application and deepened the analysis of structural steel design and design for Additive Manufacturing. Significant findings can be found in summarising the state-of-the-art in profuse tables, identifying the recent developments and research trends, as well as discussing the path for disseminating Topology Optimisation in steel construction.
Characterization of a Human In Vitro Intestinal Model for the Hazard Assessment of Nanomaterials Used in Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Gibb Matthew , Pradhan Sahar H. , Mulenos Marina R. , Lujan Henry , Liu James , Ede James D. , Shatkin Jo Anne , Sayes Christie M.
Published: February 2021

There is momentum in biomedical research to improve the structure and function of in vitro intestinal models that better represent human biology. To build a more comprehensive model, three human cell-types were co-cultured and characterized: i.e., HT29-MTX (intestinal mucous-producing goblet cells), Caco-2 (colon epithelial cells), and Raji B (lymphocytes). Raji B cells transformed a subpopulation of Caco-2 epithelial cells into phagocytic and transcytotic immune-supporting microfold cells (M-cells). A suite of bioassays was implemented to investigate steady-state barrier integrity and cellular communication. The model demonstrated a potentiating effect in metabolism and pro-inflammatory markers. Barrier integrity and cell seeding density seem to play a role in the reliability of endpoint readouts. Microscopic analysis elucidated the importance of multi-cell biomimicry. The data show that monocultures do not have the same characteristics inherent to triple cell culture models. Multiple cell types in an in vitro model produce a better representation of an intact organ and aid in the ability to assess immunomodulatory effects of nanomaterials designed for cancer theranostics after ingestion. As many national and international agencies have stressed, there is a critical need to improve alternative-to-animal strategies for pharmaceuticals in an effort to reduce animal testing.
Improved Artificial Potential Field and Dynamic Window Method for Amphibious Robot Fish Path Planning
Authors: Yang Wenlin , Wu Peng , Zhou Xiaoqi , Lv Haoliang , Liu Xiaokai , Zhang Gong , Hou Zhicheng , Wang Weijun
Published: February 2021

Aiming at the problems of “local minimum” and “unreachable target” existing in the traditional artificial potential field method in path planning, an improved artificial potential field method was proposed after analyzing the fundamental causes of the above problems. The method solved the problem of local minimum by modifying the direction and influence range of the gravitational field, increasing the virtual target and evaluation function, and the problem of unreachable targets is solved by increasing gravity. In view of the change of motion state of robot fish in amphibious environments, the improved artificial potential field method was fused with a dynamic window algorithm, and a dynamic window evaluation function of the optimal path was designed on the basis of establishing the dynamic equations of land and underwater. Then, the simulation experiment was designed under the environment of Matlab2019a. Firstly, the improved and traditional artificial potential field methods were compared. The results showed that the improved artificial potential field method could solve the above two problems well, shorten the operation time and path length, and have high efficiency. Secondly, the influence of different motion modes on path planning is verified, and the result also reflects that the amphibious robot can avoid obstacles flexibly and reach the target point accurately according to its own motion ability. This paper provides a new way of path planning for the amphibious robot.
Sequential Extraction Analysis of Arsenic in Soil Samples Collected in an Agricultural Area of Brindisi, Apulia (Italy), in the Proximity of a Coal-Burning Power Plant
Authors: Migoni Danilo , Papadia Paride , Cannito Francesco , Fanizzi Francesco Paolo
Published: February 2021

In order to evaluate the local environmental risk deriving from coal transport and burning, 30 soil samples were collected along the coal conveyor belt and around the coal-burning power plant Federico II of Brindisi (Apulia, southern Italy). Since soil pollution of metals and metalloids is measured not only by their total concentration but also by evaluating their mobility and availability, arsenic sequential extraction, leaching test and speciation analysis were performed. The analytical results showed that the most abundant As amount was contained in the final residue of the sequential extraction procedure, the so-called occluded As, embedded in rock formations such as sulphides. Moreover speciation chemical analysis showed that As(V) was by far the most abundant species, whereas As(III), which represents the most soluble and available species, was only a very small fraction. No arsenic organic species were detected in the soil samples.
Preclinical Evaluation of an Innovative Bone Graft of Marine Origin for the Treatment of Critical-Sized Bone Defects in an Animal Model
Authors: Otero-Pérez Rafael , Permuy María , López-Senra Estefanía , López-Álvarez Miriam , López-Peña Mónica , Serra Julia , González-Cantalapiedra Antonio , M. Muñoz Fernando , González Pío
Published: February 2021

Autogenous cancellous bone graft is the current gold standard of treatment for the management of bone defects since it possesses the properties of osteoinduction, osteoconduction, and osteogenesis. Xenografts and synthetic grafts have been widely reported as available and low-cost alternatives, which retain good osteoconductive and mechanical properties. Given the rich biodiversity of ocean organisms, marine sources are of particular interest in the search for alternative bone grafts with enhanced functionalities. The purpose of this paper is to assess the biocompatibility of a marine-derived bone graft obtained from shark tooth, which is an environmentally sustainable and abundant raw material from fishing. This research presents the findings of a preclinical trial—following UNE-EN ISO 10993—that induced a critical-sized bone defect in a rabbit model and compared the results with a commercial bovine-derived bone graft. Evaluation by micro-computed tomography and histomorphometric analysis 12 weeks after implantation revealed good osseointegration, with no signs of inflammatory foreign body reactions, fibrosis, or necrosis in any of the cases. The shark tooth-derived bone graft yielded significantly higher new bone mineral density values (54 ± 6%) than the control (27 ± 8%). Moreover, the percentage of intersection values were much higher (86 ± 8%) than the bovine-derived bone graft (30 ± 1%) used as control. The area of occupancy by bone tissue in the test material (38 ± 5%) also gave higher values than the control (30 ± 6%). The role of physicochemical properties, biphasic structure, and composition on the stimulation of bone regeneration is also discussed.
Research of the Technical Seismicity Due to Blasting Works in Quarries and Their Impact on the Environment and Population
Authors: Feher Jan , Cambal Jozef , Pandula Blazej , Kondela Julian , Sofranko Marian , Mudarri Tawfik , Buchla Ivan
Published: February 2021

Vibrations caused by blasting works have an impact not only on buildings but also the internal environment of the buildings. If these buildings are situated in the surroundings of quarries, the citizens can perceive these vibrations negatively. By applying an appropriate millisecond timing interval, it is possible to lower the intensity of vibrations to the levels that the citizens will not perceive as negative effects inside the buildings. The limit values for this vibration intensity have not been defined to date. For the protection of the building from the vibrations, normative values of the particle velocity and frequency were determined. Hygienic standards for the inhabitants of the housing were applied, which assessed the impact of the vibration on humans through the measurement of the vibration acceleration in the housing. In this article, the results of the research carried out in Trebejov Quarry are presented. The experimental blasts carried out in Trebejov Quarry proved that the reduction in the vibration intensity under the value 2 mm.s−1 led to the satisfaction of the inhabitants.
Stimuli-Responsive Photonic Crystals
Authors: Moscardi Liliana , Lanzani Guglielmo , Paternò Giuseppe M. , Scotognella Francesco
Published: February 2021

Recently, tunable photonic crystals (PhCs) have received great research interest, thanks to the wide range of applications in which they can be employed, such as light emission and sensing, among others. In addition, the versatility and ease of fabrication of PhCs allow for the integration of a large range of responsive elements that, in turn, can permit active tuning of PhC optical properties upon application of external stimuli, e.g., physical, chemical or even biological triggers. In this work, we summarize the most employed theoretical tools used for the design of optical properties of responsive PhCs and the most used fabrication techniques. Furthermore, we collect the most relevant results related to this field, with particular emphasis on electrochromic devices.
Edible Flowers Extracts as a Source of Bioactive Compounds with Antioxidant Properties—In Vitro Studies
Authors: Jakubczyk Karolina , Łukomska Agnieszka , Gutowska Izabela , Kochman Joanna , Janił Joanna , Janda Katarzyna
Published: February 2021

Edible plants began to play an important role in past decade as a part of therapy, a recovery process or a healthy life style. The availability and relatively low price of the raw material, as well as proven bioactive health benefits, are key to consumers’ choice of nutrients. The red clover (Trifolium pratense) is a popular plant with healthy properties such as antiseptic and analgesic effects. The less known white clover (Trifolium repens), a fodder and honey plant, has anti-rheumatic and anti-diabetic properties. Both species may serve as a potential source of bioactive substances with antioxidant properties as a food additive or supplement. The study material consisted of flower extracts of Trifolium repens and Trifolium pratense. The total content of polyphenols and DPPH (2.2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) were measured using spectrophotometry methods. Oxidative stress in THP1 cells was induced via sodium fluoride. Subsequently, flower extracts were added and their influences on proliferation, antioxidant potential and the activity of antioxidant enzymes were evaluated. The extracts have a high total content of polyphenols as well as high antioxidant potential. We also demonstrated positive extracts impact on cells proliferation, high antioxidant potential and increasing activity of antioxidant enzymes on cell cultures under high oxidative stress induced by fluoride. Both red clover and the less known white clover may serve as valuable sources of antioxidants in the everyday diet.
Effect of the Incoherent Encapsulation Layer and Oblique Sunlight Incidence on the Optical and Current-Voltage Characteristics of Surface-Textured Cu(In,Ga)Se2 Solar Cells Based on the Angle-Dependent Equispaced Thickness Averaging Method
Authors: Lee Gyeongjun , Kim Jiyong , Kim Sungchul , Kim Jungho
Published: February 2021

In general, the optical and electrical characteristics of Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS) solar cells have been studied under the condition that sunlight is normally incident from the air to the CIGS solar cell having no thick front encapsulation layers. To obtain the calculation results in a realistic module application, we calculate the optical and current–voltage (J–V) characteristics of surface-textured CIGS solar cells by simultaneously considering the thick front encapsulation layers and oblique sunlight incidence. Using the proposed angle-dependent equispaced thickness averaging method (ADETAM), we incoherently model two successive front encapsulation layers of a cover glass layer and an ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) layer, whose respective thicknesses are greater than the coherence length of sunlight (~0.6 μm). The angular dependences of reflectance spectrum and J–V curves are calculated and compared in a surface-textured CIGS solar cell with and without the inclusion of the two front encapsulation layers. We show that the optical absorption improvement of the surface-textured CIGS solar cell over the planar CIGS solar cell can be over-predicted when the thick front encapsulation layers are not considered in the optical modeling.
Effects of Hip Abductor Strengthening on Musculoskeletal Loading in Hip Dysplasia Patients after Total Hip Replacement
Authors: Valente Giordano , Taddei Fulvia , Leardini Alberto , Benedetti Maria Grazia
Published: February 2021

Hip dysplasia patients after total hip replacement show worse functional performance compared to primary osteoarthritis patients, and unfortunately there is no research on muscle and joint loads that would help understand rehabilitation effects, motor dysfunctions and failure events. We tested the hypothesis that a higher functional improvement in hip dysplasia patients who received hip abductor strengthening after hip replacement, would result in different gait function and musculoskeletal loads during walking compared to patients who performed standard rehabilitation only. In vivo gait analysis and musculoskeletal modeling were used to analyze the differences in gait parameters and hip and muscle forces during walking between the two groups of patients. We found that, in a functional scenario of very mild abnormalities, the patients who performed muscle strengthening expressed a more physiological force pattern and a generally greater force in the operated limb, although statistically significant in limited portions of the gait cycle, and likely related to a higher gait speed. We conclude that in a low-demand task, the abductor strengthening program does not have a marked effect on hip loads, and further studies on hip dysplasia patients would help clarify the effect of muscle strengthening on loads.
Least Squares Boosting Ensemble and Quantum-Behaved Particle Swarm Optimization for Predicting the Surface Roughness in Face Milling Process of Aluminum Material
Authors: Alajmi Mahdi S. , Almeshal Abdullah M.
Published: February 2021

Surface roughness is a significant factor in determining the product quality and highly impacts the production price. The ability to predict the surface roughness before production would save the time and resources of the process. This research investigated the performance of state-of-the-art machine learning and quantum behaved evolutionary computation methods in predicting the surface roughness of aluminum material in a face-milling machine. Quantum-behaved particle swarm optimization (QPSO) and least squares gradient boosting ensemble (LSBoost) were utilized to simulate numerous face milling experiments and have predicted the surface roughness values with high extent of accuracy. The algorithms have shown a superior prediction performance over genetics optimization algorithm (GA) and the classical particle swarm optimization (PSO) in terms of statistical performance indicators. The QPSO outperformed all the simulated algorithms with a root mean square error of RMSE = 2.17% and a coefficient of determination R2 = 0.95 that closely matches the actual surface roughness experimental values.
Use of Hydraulic Test Data to Recognize Fracture Network Pattern of Rock Mass in Taiwan Mountainous Areas
Authors: Hsu Shih-Meng , Chiu Chien-Ming , Ke Chien-Chung , Ku Cheng-Yu , Lin Hao-Lun
Published: February 2021

Comprehensive information on fracture network properties around a borehole is indispensable for developing a hydrogeological site descriptive model. However, such information usually relies on various cross-hole field tests at a high cost. This study presents a cost-effective option regarding the identification of fracture network density around a borehole. Based on packer-test and drilling-core data from 104 boreholes in Taiwan mountainous areas, Barker’s generalized transient radial flow model and the concept of fractal flow dimension were used to reanalyze the existing hydraulic test data for obtaining the n value related to the geometry of groundwater flow for each test section. The analyzed n value was utilized to explain the characteristics of the fracture network in the adjacent area of each packer inspection section. The interpretation results were verified, using five hydrogeological indicators, namely rock-quality designation, fracture aperture, fracture density, hydraulic conductivity, and fracture/matrix permeability ratio. All hydrogeological indices have high correlations with flow dimension n values. Based on the verification results from using these indices, the proposed method in exploring such information was proven to be feasible. Finally, three practical relations were established, to provide additional information for designing and planning groundwater-related engineering systems in Taiwan mountainous areas.
Assessment of Galvanostatic Anodic Polarization to Accelerate the Corrosion of the Bioresorbable Magnesium Alloy WE43
Authors: Wegner Nils , Walther Frank
Published: February 2021

In the field of surgery, bioresorbable magnesium is considered a promising candidate. Its low corrosion resistance, which is disadvantageous for technical application, is advantageous for surgery since the implant fully degrades in the presence of the water-based body fluids, and after a defined time the regenerating bone takes over its function again. Therefore, knowledge of the corrosion behavior over several months is essential. For this reason, an in vitro short-time testing method is developed to accelerate the corrosion progress by galvanostatic anodic polarization without influencing the macroscopic corrosion morphology. The initial corrosion rate of the magnesium alloy WE43 is calculated by detection of the hydrogen volume produced in an immersion test. In a corresponding experimental setup, a galvanostatic anodic polarization is applied with a three-electrode system. The application range for the polarization is determined based on the corrosion current density from potentiodynamic polarization. To correlate the initial corrosion rate, and accelerated dissolution rate, the corrosion morphologies of both test strategies are characterized by microscopy images, as well as energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The results demonstrate that the dissolution rate can be increased in the order of decades with the limitation of a changed corrosion morphology with increasing polarization. With this approach, it is possible to characterize and exclude new unsuitable magnesium alloys in a time-efficient manner before they are used in subsequent preclinical studies.
Note on Common Fixed Point Theorems in Convex Metric Spaces
Authors: Kumar Anil , Tas Aysegul
Published: February 2021

In the present paper, we pointed out that there is a gap in the proof of the main result of Rouzkard et al. (The Bulletin of the Belgian Mathematical Society 2012). Then after, utilizing the concept of (E.A.) property in convex metric space, we obtained an alternative and correct version of this result. Finally, it is clarified that in the theory of common fixed point, the notion of (E.A.) property in the set up of convex metric space develops some new dimensions in comparison to the hypothesis that a range set of one map is contained in the range set of another map.
Rapamycin Improves Recognition Memory and Normalizes Amino-Acids and Amines Levels in the Hippocampal Dentate Gyrus in Adult Rats Exposed to Ethanol during the Neonatal Period
Authors: Lopatynska-Mazurek Malgorzata , Pankowska Anna , Gibula-Tarlowska Ewa , Pietura Radoslaw , Kotlinska Jolanta H.
Published: February 2021

The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), a serine/ threonine kinase, is implicated in synaptic plasticity by controlling protein synthesis. Research suggests that ethanol exposure during pregnancy alters the mTOR signaling pathway in the fetal hippocampus. Thus, we investigated the influence of pre-treatment with rapamycin, an mTORC1 inhibitor, on the development of recognition memory deficits in adult rats that were neonatally exposed to ethanol. In the study, male and female rat pups received ethanol (5 g/kg/day) by intragastric intubation at postanatal day (PND 4-9), an equivalent to the third trimester of human pregnancy. Rapamycin (3 and 10 mg/kg) was given intraperitoneally before every ethanol administration. Short- and long-term recognition memory was assessed in the novel object recognition (NOR) task in adult (PND 59/60) rats. Locomotor activity and anxiety-like behavior were also evaluated to exclude the influence of such behavior on the outcome of the memory task. Moreover, the effects of rapamycin pre-treatment during neonatal ethanol exposure on the content of amino-acids and amines essential for the proper development of cognitive function in the dentate gyrus (DG) of the hippocampus was evaluated using proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H MRS) in male adult (PND 60) rats. Our results show the deleterious effect of ethanol given to neonatal rats on long-term recognition memory in adults. The effect was more pronounced in male rather than female rats. Rapamycin reversed this ethanol-induced memory impairment and normalized the levels of amino acids and amines in the DG. This suggests the involvement of mTORC1 in the deleterious effect of ethanol on the developing brain.
Phospholipid-Gold Nanorods Induce Energy Crisis in MCF-7 Cells: Cytotoxicity Evaluation Using LC-MS-Based Metabolomics Approach
Authors: Dahabiyeh Lina A. , Mahmoud Nouf N. , Al-Natour Mohammad A. , Safo Laudina , Kim Dong-Hyun , Khalil Enam A. , Abu-Dahab Rana
Published: February 2021

Phospholipid-modified gold nanorods (phospholipid-GNRs) have demonstrated drastic cytotoxicity towards MCF-7 breast cancer cells compared to polyethylene glycol-coated GNRs (PEG-GNRs). In this study, the mechanism of cytotoxicity of phospholipid-GNRs towards MCF-7 cells was investigated using mass spectrometry-based global metabolic profiling and compared to PEGylated counterparts. The results showed that when compared to PEG-GNRs, phospholipid-GNRs induced significant and more pronounced impact on the metabolic profile of MCF-7 cells. Phospholipid-GNRs significantly decreased the levels of metabolic intermediates and end-products associated with cellular energy metabolisms resulting in dysfunction in TCA cycle, a reduction in glycolytic activity, and imbalance of the redox state. Additionally, phospholipid-GNRs disrupted several metabolism pathways essential for the normal growth and proliferation of cancer cells including impairment in purine, pyrimidine, and glutathione metabolisms accompanied by lower amino acid pools. On the other hand, the effects of PEG-GNRs were limited to alteration of glycolysis and pyrimidine metabolism. The current work shed light on the importance of metabolomics as a valuable analytical approach to explore the molecular effects of GNRs with different surface chemistry on cancer cell and highlights metabolic targets that might serve as promising treatment strategy in cancer.
Determination of the Qualitative Composition of Biologically-Active Substances of Extracts of In Vitro Callus, Cell Suspension, and Root Cultures of the Medicinal Plant Rhodiola rosea
Authors: Asyakina Lyudmila , Sukhikh Stanislav , Ivanova Svetlana , Prosekov Alexander , Ulrikh Elena , Chupahin Evgeny , Babich Olga
Published: February 2021

The results of the qualitative composition analysis of the dried biomass extracts of in vitro callus, cell suspension, and root cultures show that the main biologically active substances (BAS) in the medicinal plant, Rhodiola rosea, are 6-C-(1-(4-hydroxyphenyl)ethyl)aromadendrin (25 mg, yield 0.21%), 2-(3,7-dihydroxy-2-(2-hydroxypropan-2-yl)-2,3-dihydrobenzofuran-5-yl)-6,7-dihydroxychroman-4-one (23 mg, yield 0.2%), 2-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-5,7-dimethoxychroman-4-one (175 mg, yield 1.5%), 5,7-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxy-3-(2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-4-oxo-4H-chromen-6-yl)phenyl)-4H-chromen-4-one (45 mg, yield 0.5%), 5,6,7,8-tetrahydroxy-4-methoxyflavone (0.35 mg, 0.5%). BAS from the dried biomass extracts of in vitro callus, cell suspension, and root cultures of Rhodiola rosea will be used for the production of pharmaceuticals and dietary supplements with antitumor, antimicrobial, and antioxidant effects.
TRIM Proteins in Colorectal Cancer: TRIM8 as a Promising Therapeutic Target in Chemo Resistance
Authors: Marzano Flaviana , Caratozzolo Mariano Francesco , Pesole Graziano , Sbisà Elisabetta , Tullo Apollonia
Published: February 2021

Colorectal cancer (CRC) represents one of the most widespread forms of cancer in the population and, as all malignant tumors, often develops resistance to chemotherapies with consequent tumor growth and spreading leading to the patient’s premature death. For this reason, a great challenge is to identify new therapeutic targets, able to restore the drugs sensitivity of cancer cells. In this review, we discuss the role of TRIpartite Motifs (TRIM) proteins in cancers and in CRC chemoresistance, focusing on the tumor-suppressor role of TRIM8 protein in the reactivation of the CRC cells sensitivity to drugs currently used in the clinical practice. Since the restoration of TRIM8 protein levels in CRC cells recovers chemotherapy response, it may represent a new promising therapeutic target in the treatment of CRC.