bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modelo multicritérios para o controle de qualidade da fralda geriátrica para o uso hospitalar
Authors: Ferreira Alexandra Oliveira de Matias , Silvino Zenith Rosa , Balbino Carlos Marcelo , Izu Marina , Souza Cláudio José de , Matias Daniela de Oliveira
Published: June 2020

O presente estudo tem o objetivo de levantar as possíveis fragilidades das especificações das fraldas geriátricas a fim de discriminá-las em aprovada; aprovada com limitações e reprovada pela probabilidade de risco de incidência e prevalência de lesões de pele por pressão e/ou umidade, segundo o pressuposto de que a qualidade dos componentes das fraldas geriátricas pode ter um papel importante no surgimento das lesões de pele. Empregou-se relato de experiência, com amostra de quatro fraldas geriátricas, de uma mesma embalagem. Foram usados para testes: azul de metileno, água potável e cálice graduado. Criadas escalas para medição de volume miccional e modelo multicritérios para a qualidade das fraldas geriátricas para uso hospitalar. Com a metodologia de testes de produtos industriais e Multi Criteria Decision Aid (MCDA) foi possível avaliar as fraldas geriátricas segundo a presença de níveis variados de umidade, após a aplicação de solução-teste de simulação de volumes miccionais. Entretanto, mesmo sem o peso sobre as fraldas geriátricas ou com aplicação de apenas ¼ do peso especificado na embalagem, a cobertura ao toque com volume a partir de 400 ml, tanto a cobertura e o lençol, estavam com níveis diferentes de presença de umidade.  Assim, existe a probabilidade da associação da qualidade das fraldas geriátricas com a incidência e prevalência de lesão por pressão e/ou umidade.
STRATEGI KOPERASI SYARIAH SIDOGIRI CABANG PEMBANTU YOSOWILANGUN DALAM MEMBERDAYAKAN MASYARAKAT EKONOMI LEMAH DI DESA YOSOWILANGUN LOR KECAMATAN YOSOWILANGUN KABUPATEN LUMAJANG
Authors: Jayatri Fidyah , Putri Dwi Yanuarindah
Published: June 2020

Koperasi syariah merupakan koperasi yang dikelola menggunakan prinsip-prinip syariah. Temuan observasi penelitian koperasi syariah Sidogiri Capem Yosowilangun mengutamakan kenyamanan berinteraksi dengan anggota terutama dalam kegiatan pembiayaan yang mengalami kesulitan. Bentuk pengembangan usaha anggota, Koperasi Sidogir Capem Yosowilangun menggunakan sistembagi hasil yang sesuai dengan ajaran syariat Islam serta tidak menggunakan imbalan bunga seperti bank atau koperasi konvensional pada umumnya. Jenis penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kualitatif dengan pendekatan fenomenologi. Informan penelitian ini yaitu pengelola koperasi sidogiri dan masyarakat Desa Yosowilangun Lor Kecamatan Yosowilangun Kabupaten Lumajang yang menjadi anggota koperasi. Pengumpulan data menggunakan teknik observasi, wawancara mendalam, dan dokumentasi. Teknis analisis data yang di gunakan yaitu dengan reduksi data, display data,  verifikasi data penelitian. Keabsahan data menggunakan kredibility, transfersibility, dependibility, dan konfirmability.            Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa (1) Pemahaman masyarakat terhadap koperasi syariah sudah baik dimana masyarakat mampu menjelaskan bahwa bentuk pengelolaan koperasi syariah dan (2) strategi koperasi syariah dalam memberdayakan masyarakat ekonomi lemah ditunjukkan dengan melakukan upaya jemput bola terhadap anggota/nasabah yang perekonomiannya lemah untuk berbisnis atau berwirausaha. Saran (1) Bagi Prodi Pendidikan Ekonomi STKIP PGRI Lumajang diharapkan mampu memberikan referensi yang berkaitan dengan strategi koperasi syariah dalam memberdayakan masyarakat ekonomi lemah. (2) Bagi pengelola koperasi dihararapkan dapat meningkatkan pelayanan kepada masyarakat sehingga kedepan mampu memperkenalkan ekonomi syariah kepada masyarakatt lebih luas. Terakhir (3) Bagi anggota koperasi diharapkan mampu memilih produk koperasi sesuai kebutuhannya dalam upaya meningkatkan perekonomian mereka yang diharapkan dapat ikut andil dalam mengangkat dan memperkenalkan ekonomi syariah kepada masyarakat lebih luas.
Complement proteins detected through iTRAQ-based proteomics analysis of serum from black carp Mylopharyngodon piceus in response to experimentally induced Aeromonas hydrophila infection
Authors: Liu W
Published: June 2020

The black carpMylopharyngodon piceusis one of the culturally important ‘4 famous domestic fishes’ in China. Recently, infectious diseases caused byAeromonas hydrophilahave drastically altered the operation of the black carp farming industry. In the present study, isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ) were combined with mass spectrometry analysis to screen for differentially abundant black carp serum proteins in response to experimentally inducedA. hydrophilainfection. A total of 86 differentially abundant proteins were quantified at 24 h post-infection, including 78 down-regulated proteins and 8 up-regulated proteins. The down-regulated proteins included complement C1q subcomponent subunit C, complement factor B/C2A, complement factor B/C2B, complement C3-Q1, complement C3, and complement C4-2. Bioinformatic analysis indicated that the differentially abundant proteins were mainly associated with complement and coagulation cascades (27.9%). Moreover, real-time PCR (qPCR) analysis revealed changes in the gene expression of both C3 and B/C2A in blood cells, liver, kidney, gills, and intestines of the black carp infected withA. hydrophila. However, mRNA expression levels did not consistently correlate with the corresponding protein levels. A polyclonal antibody was prepared using a synthetic C3 peptide. Immunofluorescence analysis showed that the expression of C3 in the kidney was increased withA. hydrophilainfection. This work provides a useful characterization of the impact ofA. hydrophilainfection on the complement system of the black carp.
Fine-scale acoustic telemetry in a riverine environment: movement and habitat use of the endangered Mary River cod Maccullochella mariensis
Authors: Espinoza T , Burke CL , Carpenter-Bundhoo L , Marshall S , Roberts D , Kennard MJ
Published: June 2020

Understanding movement and habitat requirements of endangered species is critical to conservation management. We evaluate fine-scale acoustic telemetry to study breeding-related movement and habitat use of the endangered Mary River cod Maccullochella mariensis in a riverine environment and, in relation to key environmental variables, to inform management. Movement activity varied significantly in relation to water temperature and diel period, and spatial occupancy and habitat selection varied substantially in relation to the nesting behaviour of Mary River cod. Important nesting habitat included a large hollow log mid-channel and well-shaded logs and log jams adjacent to the river bank. Extrapolating this information to the general population was inhibited by relatively small sample sizes, due in part to the restricted spatial scale of the hydrophone arrays and longitudinal movements of tagged fish beyond the acoustic range of our array. Notwithstanding this, our results demonstrate that (1) fine-scale acoustic telemetry can quantify complex biological behaviours in riverine environments; (2) Mary River cod require specific environmental stimuli and habitat to support the reproductive cycle; and (3) changing environmental conditions may influence Mary River cod behaviour, and understanding this response is necessary for sustainable management. Findings from this study can inform future applications of this methodology in riverine environments and contribute to the development of management strategies and habitat restoration activities supporting the recovery of Mary River cod populations.
A COMPARISON OF THE ENFORCEMENT OF CEDAW AND CRC IN MALAYSIA AND INDONESIA
Authors: Damayanti Angel
Published: June 2020

Abstract: All ASEAN member States have ratified and acceded the Convention on the Elimination of AllForms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) and the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC).As parties of both conventions, Malaysia and Indonesia should enforce specific mechanism and rules inline with CEDAW and CRC norms and standards. Yet, both countries ask reservation for severalsubstantive and procedural matters on both conventions. This certainly restricts the enforcement on theelimination of all forms of discrimination against women and the protection of the rights of children. Thisis in addition to the Islamic shariah implemented in Malaysia and some regions in Indonesia as well asstereotype of women and men regarding their role in economic, social, and political. This paper willessentially show some hindrances for both governments and therefore should take some steps to reducethe limitation. The analysis will be delivered by examining all reports given by both governments to UNCommission on Women and Children, as well as shadow reports from NGOs.Keywords: CEDAW, CRC, Reservation, Radical Feminism

Abstrak: Semua Negara anggota ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asia Nation) telah meratifikasi danmengaksesi Konvensi tentang Penghapusan Segala Bentuk Diskriminasi terhadap Perempuan(Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women - CEDAW) dan Konvensitentang Hak-hak Anak (Convention on the Rights of the Child - CRC). Sebagai pihak yang meratifikasikedua konvensi tersebut, Malaysia dan Indonesia tentu saja harus tunduk dan mengikuti aturan yangtertera di dalam konvensi tersebut. Sayangnya, Malaysia dan Indonesia mengajukan reservasi terhadapbeberapa aturan dalam konvensi, baik secara substansi maupun prosedur. Hal ini tentu sajamenghambat penghormatan dan pelaksanaan kedua konvensi secara menyeluruh. Hal ini semakindipersulit dengan adanya hukum Islam yang berlaku di Malaysia dan beberapa daerah di Indonesia sertastereotipe mengenai perbedaan peran laki-laki dan perempuan yang diterapkan di dalam masyarakatkedua Negara. Paper ini akan menunjukkan beberapa kendala yang dihadapi oleh pemerintah keduaNegara dalam menerapkan aturan-aturan CEDAW dan CRC secara menyeluruh. Hal ini akan dilakukandengan menganalisa laporan-laporan tertulis yang telah dibuat oleh pemerintah dan NGO keduaNegara.Kata Kunci: CEDAW, CRC, Reservasi, Feminisme Radikal
EFFECT OF EXPORT IMPROVEMENT POLICY THROUGH EXPORT-ORIENTED CREDIT BUSINESS PROGRAMS ON EXPORT GROWTH OF MICRO SMALL MEDIUM ENTERPRISES IN 2016
Authors: Selina Tikau
Published: June 2020

Kredit Usaha Rakyat Berorientasi Ekspor (KURBE) is a program aimed at increasing the export of Micro, Small and Medium Entreprises (MSME). KURBE is an implementation of the economic policy volume 11. Credit Financing is given, especially for MSME that has export-oriented. KURBE had not to provide an influence on MSME export growth in 2016. KURBE program faced many obstacles that made its program less effective. Using qualitative methods, we viewed distribution KURBE and its influence on export growth.
THE ROLE OF INDONESIA'S ECONOMIC DIPLOMACY IN THE DYNAMICS OF INDONESIA'S RELATIONSHIP WITH AUSTRALIA UNDER THE LEADERSHIP OF JOKO WIDODO (2014-2016)
Authors: Evasari Della Junita
Published: June 2020

This study discusses the relationship between Indonesia and Australia that have been unstable. Both countries make efforts to transform the various challenges and potential conflicts into an arena of cooperation that is beneficial to both countries, which realized through the implementation of economic diplomacy. Economic relations between Indonesia and Australia are important for both countries, but the value not maximized. As neighboring countries are close together, the cost is likely to be optimized, seeing from the data of strong economic performance and complementary both countries. The purpose of this study is to determine the role of Indonesian Economic Diplomacy in the dynamics of Indonesia's relationship with Australia in the era of President Joko Widodo's Government (2014-2016). This research uses a qualitative research methodology with a descriptive analysis approach. The theory used is the theory of diplomacy and the concept of economic diplomacy. The results show three roles of Indonesian economic diplomacy in the dynamics of Indonesia's relations with Australia in the era of President Joko Widodo. First, it seeks to increase cooperation between Indonesia and Australia in the economic sector (exports, imports, and investments), tourism, and education. Secondly, to improve the relationship between Indonesia and Australia to be closer and reduce the tension/conflict between the two countries. Third, encourage complementary relationships and win-win relationships. One of the implementations of Indonesia's economic diplomacy with Australia is the Indonesia-Australia Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IA- CEPA), which is currently in the process of negotiating both countries. Successful cooperation agreements will reflect strong ties between the two countries.
A COMPREHENSIVE STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP: SYNCHRONIZING CHINA’S BELT AND ROAD INITIATIVE (BRI) ON RUSSIA’S EURASIA ECONOMIC UNION (EAEU)
Authors: Manurung Hendra
Published: June 2020

This research attempts to enrich debate by addressing the relationship of the China’s Belt and Road Initiative with the Russia’s Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). Currently, it is a common phenomenon where a regional economic grouping bringing together several of China’s important BRI partners including Russia and Central Asian countries. Since 2013, China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) initiated, developed, and has been promptly placed among the top priorities of China’s foreign policy consideration in Beijing. One of the BRI’s cooperation priorities is unimpeded trade, which implies the improvement of the investment and trade facilitation and removal of the recurrent investment and trade barriers. Despite its apparent flexibility and openness to embracing existing regional and multilateral platforms, there has been little debate on the compatibility of the BRI objectives with the existing economic integration projects. Thus, it raises a question on how these two initiatives go along smoothly, why it needs to be developed and how it will be develop. Meanwhile, it exists also the U.S-China trade war which has been going intensively for two years since 2017. It addresses the current progress in bridging the two major economic projects and outlines the strategic decision-making priority directions for further coordination between these two global major powers.
PENGELOLAAN OBJEK WISATA LEMO DAN BUNTU BURAKE DI KABUPATEN TANA TORAJA PROVINSI SULAWESI SELATAN
Authors: Matantu Christine Elen
Published: June 2020

Management of Tourism Objects for Lemo and Buntu Burake in Tana Toraja Regency, South Sulawesi Province. Some regions of Indonesia have very interesting tourism resources, with natural and cultural diversity, which if managed properly can be a source of regional income. The purpose of this study is to find out and describe tourism objects managed by the community, as well as how the role of the Regional Government in the community of Tana Toraja Regency in managing tourist objects. The research method is carried out using a qualitative approach, with data collection techniques through literature studies and interviews. The results of this study can be used to increase knowledge of tourist objects located in Tana Toraja Regency and are expected to contribute ideas about the management of community-based attractions.

Keywords: Lemo, Buntu Burake, Tana Toraja, tour.
Fish canning wastewater treatment in sequencing batch
reactor with activated sludge
Authors: Grgas Dijana , Ugrina Marina , Toromanović Merima , Ibrahimpašić Jasmina , Štefanac Tea , Landeka Dragičević Tibela
Published: June 2020

The
biological performance of flocculent sludge in sequencing batch reactor for the
treatment of fish canning wastewater was evaluated in terms of organic matter
and nutrient removal by gradual increase of salt concentration in the
nitritation-denitritation process. Salinity negatively affected the biological
system performance in a way that reduced organic and nutrient removal. The
removal efficiency of organic matter and nitrogen showed good performance below
20 g NaCl/L, while phosphate accumulating organisms activity was deteriorated
and declined during whole experiment. Nitrogen removal occurred as ammonium
oxidation with nitrite accumulation. Nitrite reduction was not affected by salt
concentration.
THE EFFECT OF TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIP, WORK MOTIVATION, AND JOB SATISFACTION ON EMPLOYEES’ PERFORMANCE
Authors: Anindya Ajeng Kartika Ayu , Tohir  , Jati Eling Purwanto
Published: June 2020

This study aims to determine the effect of transformational leadership, work motivation, and job satisfaction on employees performance in PDAM Brebes Regency office. The method used in this study is survey method that involved 116 respondents. The data gained were analyzed using validity test, reliability test, path analysis, and hypothesis testing. The results of this study and calculation data from Path Analysis show that transformational leadership, work motivation, job satisfaction affect employees’ performance.
To the Skin and Beyond: The Immune Response to African Trypanosomes as They Enter and Exit the Vertebrate Host
Authors: Alfituri Omar A. , Quintana Juan F. , MacLeod Annette , Garside Paul , Benson Robert A. , Brewer James M. , Mabbott Neil A. , Morrison Liam J. , Capewell Paul
Published: June 2020

African trypanosomes are single-celled extracellular protozoan parasites transmitted by tsetse fly vectors across sub-Saharan Africa, causing serious disease in both humans and animals. Mammalian infections begin when the tsetse fly penetrates the skin in order to take a blood meal, depositing trypanosomes into the dermal layer. Similarly, onward transmission occurs when differentiated and insect pre-adapted forms are ingested by the fly during a blood meal. Between these transmission steps, trypanosomes access the systemic circulation of the vertebrate hostviathe skin-draining lymph nodes, disseminating into multiple tissues and organs, and establishing chronic, and long-lasting infections. However, most studies of the immunobiology of African trypanosomes have been conducted under experimental conditions that bypass the skin as a route for systemic dissemination (typicallyviaintraperitoneal or intravenous routes). Therefore, the importance of these initial interactions between trypanosomes and the skin at the site of initial infection, and the implications for these processes in infection establishment, have largely been overlooked. Recent studies have also demonstrated active and complex interactions between the mammalian host and trypanosomes in the skin during initial infection and revealed the skin as an overlooked anatomical reservoir for transmission. This highlights the importance of this organ when investigating the biology of trypanosome infections and the associated immune responses at the initial site of infection. Here, we review the mechanisms involved in establishing African trypanosome infections and potential of the skin as a reservoir, the role of innate immune cells in the skin during initial infection, and the subsequent immune interactions as the parasites migrate from the skin. We suggest that a thorough identification of the mechanisms involved in establishing African trypanosome infections in the skin and their progression through the host is essential for the development of novel approaches to interrupt disease transmission and control these important diseases.
New Interspecific Brassica Hybrids with High Levels of Heterosis for Fatty Acids Composition
Authors: Niemann Janetta , Bocianowski Jan , Stuper-Szablewska Kinga , Wojciechowski Tomasz
Published: June 2020

Winter oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.) is the most important oil crop in Europe. Optimizing the profile and quantity of fatty acids in rapeseed is critical for maximizing the value of edible oil. Although the utilization of crop heterosis for hybrid breeding in rapeseed is limited by the relatively narrow genetic basis of adapted germplasm, an up-to-date significant effort has been made to broaden the rapeseed gene pool using different strategies. The present study was aimed to estimate heterosis for oil quality of the newly developed Brassica interspecific hybrids, using selected parental lines. For this purpose, five parental genotypes and twenty-two interspecific cross-derived Brassica lines were evaluated in a randomized complete block design with three replications in the Greater Poland region during 2009, 2010 and 2011. Generally, the variation among genotypes was evident for most of the tested fatty acids mean values, but the differences between genotypes were not always statistically significant when based on individual fatty acids (FAs). However, the highest number of significant heterosis effects was observed for behenic and lignoceric acids and for Brassica hybrid line H1. Based on obtained results it was possible to select one genotype—the hybrid line H5, which is recommended for further inclusion in the breeding programs.
Resource-Efficient Classification and Early Predictions of Carcass Composition in Fattening Pigs by Means of Ultrasound Examinations
Authors: Reckels Bernd , Hölscher Richard , Schwennen Cornelia , Lengling Alexandra , Stegemann Ute , Waldmann Karl-Heinz , Visscher Christian
Published: June 2020

The development of the backfat thickness of fattening pigs in relation to their weight allows first conclusions to be drawn concerning the efficiency of individual growth and classification of the carcass. The hypothesis was that, firstly, via measurement of backfat thickness and muscle diameter, their ratio and the quality of the carcass can be predicted and that, secondly, using resource-efficient and sustainable feeding has no negative effects on the carcass. Over a 70-day period, ultrasound examinations of backfat and musculus longissimus dorsi were performed in a pen with sorting gates and automatic body mass recordings every two weeks on 121 animals of the same age, starting at approximately 50 kg. Data were subdivided into four groups for each measurement time. There was weak (Examination 1: r = −0.28164; p = 0.0018) but steadily increasing correlation (Examination 5: r = −0.60657; p ≤ 0.0001) between the backfat/muscle ratio and the carcass quality. In all four groups, significant differences in the diameter of the M. longissimus dorsi (“light fat (LF) = 3.29 cm; “light lean (LL)” = 3.62 cm; “heavy fat (HF)” = 3.69 cm; “heavy lean (HL)” = 3.93 cm) and in backfat thickness (LF = 0.44 cm; LL = 0.38 cm; HF= 0.47 cm; HL= 0.39 cm) could be shown during the first examination.
Enhancing Cation Exchange Capacity of Weathered Soils Using Biochar: Feedstock, Pyrolysis Conditions and Addition Rate
Authors: Domingues Rimena R. , Sánchez-Monedero Miguel A. , Spokas Kurt A. , Melo Leônidas C. A. , Trugilho Paulo F. , Valenciano Murilo Nunes , Silva Carlos A.
Published: June 2020

The addition of alkaline and high-cation exchange capacity (CEC) biochars is a suitable strategy to increase the CEC of weathered soils. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of biochar from different feedstocks and pyrolysis temperatures on the CEC of two contrasting Oxisols. Biochars produced from chicken manure (CM), eucalyptus sawdust (ES), coffee husk (CH) and sugarcane bagasse (SB),plus a control (without biochar), at 350, 450, and 750 °C were mixed with the soils at 2; 5; 10 and 20% (w/w) and incubated for 9 months. Feedstock, pyrolysis temperature and addition rate of biochar were key factors controlling the alteration of soil CEC. The CH biochar pyrolyzed at 350 °C was the most effective matrix at increasing soil CEC. In a rate-dependent way, ES and SB biochars increased C contents of both soils without improving soil CEC. The efficiency of high-ash biochars in enhancing soil CEC in both Oxisols was limited by the alkalization caused by high rates of CH and CM biochars. The increase in CEC is soil-dependent and modulated by high-ash biochar CEC and application rate, as well as by the original soil CEC.
Estimating Sensory Properties with Near-Infrared Spectroscopy: A Tool for Quality Control and Breeding of ‘Calçots’ (Allium cepa L.)
Authors: Sans Silvia , Ferré Joan , Boqué Ricard , Sabaté José , Casals Joan , Simó Joan
Published: June 2020

Using trained panelists to evaluate sensory attributes is unfeasible when many samples must be evaluated, such as in quality control or breeding programs. Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) is a rapid inexpensive method often used in food quality evaluation. We assessed the feasibility of using NIRS to estimate sweetness, fiber perception, and off-flavors, the most important sensory attributes in cooked ‘calçots’ (the immature floral stems of second-year onion resprouts). The best results were achieved through models using interval partial least squares (iPLS) variable selection on spectra from pureed cooked ‘calçots’, which yielded values of the ratio of performance to deviation (RPD) greater than 1.4 in all cases. Therefore, it would be feasible to use NIRS to estimate sensory properties in ‘calçots’. This approach would be useful in initial screening to discard samples that differ substantially from the ideotype; thus, sensory analysis by trained panels could be reserved for finer discriminations.
Successive Harvests Affect Yield, Quality and Metabolic Profile of Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.)
Authors: Corrado Giandomenico , Chiaiese Pasquale , Lucini Luigi , Miras-Moreno Begoña , Colla Giuseppe , Rouphael Youssef
Published: June 2020

Sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) is an aromatic, tender leafy green cultivated for the fresh market and industrial processing. Like many other leafy vegetables, this species can be harvested more than once to increase productivity. Although the cut-and-come-again (CC) harvest strategy is widespread in basil, not much is known about the effect of the cut. In this work, we examined differences in biomass, physiology, nutrient use efficiency and antioxidant capacity of basil leaves from two successive harvests. Moreover, we also performed an untargeted metabolomics analysis to reveal variations in the leaf metabolite profile. The data indicated that the cut affected many of the parameters under investigation, including a modest reduction of yield (−20%), of nitrogen use efficiency (−21%) and of some quality attributes such as the antioxidant capacity (−16%) and the nitrate content in leaves (+48%). Moreover, leaves of successive cuts displayed a significant variation of the profile of bioactive compounds, characterized by an overall decrease of phenylpropanoids and an increase in terpenoids. Our data revealed the impact of CC harvesting strategy in basil, and that this strategy offers the possibility to yield leaves with different metabolomics profiles and quality attributes.
Principles of N-Linked Glycosylation Variations of IgG-Based Therapeutics: Pharmacokinetic and Functional Considerations
Authors: Boune Souad , Hu Peisheng , Epstein Alan L. , Khawli Leslie A.
Published: June 2020

The development of recombinant therapeutic proteins has been a major revolution in modern medicine. Therapeutic-based monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are growing rapidly, providing a potential class of human pharmaceuticals that can improve the management of cancer, autoimmune diseases, and other conditions. Most mAbs are typically of the immunoglobulin G (IgG) subclass, and they are glycosylated at the conserved asparagine position 297 (Asn-297) in the CH2 domain of the Fc region. Post-translational modifications here account for the observed high heterogeneity of glycoforms that may or not impact the stability, pharmacokinetics (PK), efficacy, and immunogenicity of mAbs. These modifications are also critical for the Fc receptor binding, and consequently, key antibody effector functions including antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) and complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC). Moreover, mAbs produced in non-human cells express oligosaccharides that are not normally found in serum IgGs might lead to immunogenicity issues when administered to patients. This review summarizes our understanding of the terminal sugar residues, such as mannose, sialic acids, fucose, or galactose, which influence therapeutic mAbs either positively or negatively in this regard. This review also discusses mannosylation, which has significant undesirable effects on the PK of glycoproteins, causing a decreased mAbs’ half-life. Moreover, terminal galactose residues can enhance CDC activities and Fc–C1q interactions, and core fucose can decrease ADCC and Fc–FcγRs binding. To optimize the therapeutic use of mAbs, glycoengineering strategies are used to reduce glyco-heterogeneity of mAbs, increase their safety profile, and improve the therapeutic efficacy of these important reagents.
Antimicrobial Photodynamic Therapy in the Control of COVID-19
Authors: Almeida Adelaide , Faustino M. Amparo F. , Neves Maria G. P. M. S.
Published: June 2020

Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT), using well known, safe and cost-effective photosensitizers, such as phenothiazines, e.g., methylene blue (MB), or porphyrins, e.g., protoporphyrin-IX (PP-IX), might help to mitigate the COVID-19 either to prevent infections or to develop photoactive fabrics (e.g., masks, suits, gloves) to disinfect surfaces, air and wastewater, under artificial light and/or natural sunlight.
Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate (EGCG)-Inducible SMILE Inhibits STAT3-Mediated Hepcidin Gene Expression
Authors: Kim Yu-Ji , Kim Ki-Sun , Lim Daejin , Yang Dong Ju , Park Jae-Il , Kim Ki Woo , Jeong Jae-Ho , Choi Hueng-Sik , Kim Don-Kyu
Published: June 2020

Hepatic peptide hormone hepcidin, a key regulator of iron metabolism, is induced by inflammatory cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6) in the pathogenesis of anemia of inflammation or microbial infections. Small heterodimer partner-interacting leucine zipper protein (SMILE)/CREBZF is a transcriptional corepressor of nuclear receptors that control hepatic glucose and lipid metabolism. Here, we examined the role of SMILE in regulating iron metabolism by inflammatory signals. Overexpression of SMILE significantly decreased activation of the Janus kinase 2-signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3)-mediated hepcidin production and secretion that is triggered by the IL-6 signal in human and mouse hepatocytes. Moreover, SMILE co-localized and physically interacted with STAT3 in the nucleus in the presence of IL-6, which significantly suppressed binding of STAT3 to the hepcidin gene promoter. Interestingly, epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a major component of green tea, induced SMILE expression through forkhead box protein O1 (FoxO1), as demonstrated in FoxO1 knockout primary hepatocytes. In addition, EGCG inhibited IL-6-induced hepcidin expression, which was reversed by SMILE knockdown. Finally, EGCG significantly suppressed lipopolysaccharide-induced hepcidin secretion and hypoferremia through induction of SMILE expression in mice. These results reveal a previously unrecognized role of EGCG-inducible SMILE in the IL-6-dependent transcriptional regulation of iron metabolism.
Redox Conformation-Specific Protein–Protein Interactions of the 2-Cysteine Peroxiredoxin in Arabidopsis
Authors: Liebthal Michael , Schuetze Johannes , Dreyer Anna , Mock Hans-Peter , Dietz Karl-Josef
Published: June 2020

2-Cysteine peroxiredoxins (2-CysPRX) are highly abundant thiol peroxidases in chloroplasts and play key roles in reactive oxygen species (ROS) defense and redox signaling. Peroxide-dependent oxidation of cysteines induces conformational changes that alter the ability for protein–protein interactions. For regeneration, 2-CysPRXs withdraw electrons from thioredoxins (TRXs) and participate in redox-dependent regulation by affecting the redox state of TRX-dependent targets, for example, in chloroplast metabolism. This work explores the redox conformation-specific 2-CysPRX interactome using an affinity-based pull down with recombinant variants arrested in specific quaternary conformations. This allowed us to address a critical and poorly explored aspect of the redox-regulatory network and showed that the interaction of TRXs, their interaction partners, and 2-CysPRX occur under contrasting redox conditions. A set of 178 chloroplast proteins were identified from leaf proteins and included proteins with functions in photosynthesis, carbohydrate, fatty acid and amino acid metabolism, and defense. These processes are known to be deregulated in plants devoid of 2-CysPRX. Selected enzymes like LIPOXYGENASE 2, CHLOROPLAST PROTEIN 12-1, CHORISMATE SYNTHASE, ß-CARBONIC ANHYDRASE, and FERREDOXIN-dependent GLUTAMATE SYNTHASE 1 were subjected to far Western, isothermal titration calorimetry, and enzyme assays for validation. The pull down fractions frequently contained TRXs as well as their target proteins, for example, FRUCTOSE-1,6-BISPHOSPHATASE and MALATE DEHYDROGENASE. The difference between TRX-dependent indirect interactions of TRX targets and 2-CysPRX and direct 2-CysPRX binding is hypothesized to be related to quaternary structure formation, where 2-CysPRX oligomers function as scaffold for complex formation, whereas TRX oxidase activity of 2-CysPRX controls the redox state of TRX-related enzyme activity.
An Impedance Sensor in Detection of Immunoglobulin G with Interdigitated Electrodes on Flexible Substrate
Authors: Jin Kai , Zhao Ping , Fang Wenhui , Zhai Yingjiao , Hu Siyi , Ma Hanbin , Li Jinhua
Published: June 2020

Immunoassay plays an important role in the early screening and diagnosis of diseases. The use of electrochemical methods to realize the label-free, specific and rapid detection of antigens has attracted extensive attention from researchers. In this study, we realized the function of immunosensing and detection by lithography, the interdigitated gold electrode on the polyethylene naphthalate (PEN) membrane. Then, the gold electrode was biofunctionalized and the characterization was verified by atomic force microscopy, which was finally for the detection of mice IgG. This immunosensor has a low detection limit, with a broad linear detection range of 0.01–10 ng/mL. The results show that the electrochemical impedance sensor made of metal electrodes based on PEN flexible materials is suitable for immunoassay experiments. If this method could be proved by further studies, broad application prospects can be seen in routine immunoassays.
The Elephant in the Machine: Proposing a New Metric of Data Reliability and its Application to a Medical Case to Assess Classification Reliability
Authors: Cabitza Federico , Campagner Andrea , Albano Domenico , Aliprandi Alberto , Bruno Alberto , Chianca Vito , Corazza Angelo , Di Pietto Francesco , Gambino Angelo , Gitto Salvatore , Messina Carmelo , Orlandi Davide , Pedone Luigi , Zappia Marcello , Sconfienza Luca Maria
Published: June 2020

In this paper, we present and discuss a novel reliability metric to quantify the extent a ground truth, generated in multi-rater settings, as a reliable basis for the training and validation of machine learning predictive models. To define this metric, three dimensions are taken into account: agreement (that is, how much a group of raters mutually agree on a single case); confidence (that is, how much a rater is certain of each rating expressed); and competence (that is, how accurate a rater is). Therefore, this metric produces a reliability score weighted for the raters’ confidence and competence, but it only requires the former information to be actually collected, as the latter can be obtained by the ratings themselves, if no further information is available. We found that our proposal was both more conservative and robust to known paradoxes than other existing agreement measures, by virtue of a more articulated notion of the agreement due to chance, which was based on an empirical estimation of the reliability of the single raters involved. We discuss the above metric within a realistic annotation task that involved 13 expert radiologists in labeling the MRNet dataset. We also provide a nomogram by which to assess the actual accuracy of a classification model, given the reliability of its ground truth. In this respect, we also make the point that theoretical estimates of model performance are consistently overestimated if ground truth reliability is not properly taken into account.
Possibility of Using Fermented Curly Kale Juice to Manufacture Feta-Type Cheese
Authors: Michalak Magdalena , Skrzypczak Katarzyna , Nastaj Maciej , Terpiłowski Konrad , Skrzypek Tomasz , Waśko Adam , Polak-Berecka Magdalena
Published: June 2020

This paper reports the potential use of fermented curly kale juice in Feta-type cheese production. The rheological study and Turbiscan assay demonstrated that fermented curly kale juice coupled with rennet accelerated curd formation resulted in a stronger curd compared to the sample containing rennet alone. Laboratory-scale cheese was manufactured from cow’s milk with the use of fermented curly kale juice. Several parameters that affect the quality of cheese were investigated, including physicochemical, textural and microstructure characteristics. The content of amino acids and fatty acids was determined, surface properties were assessed and microbial enumeration of the experimental cheese was carried out before and after ripening. The values of pH and the content of lactose and protein significantly decreased as a result of maturation. In turn, an increase in LAB growth as well as saturated and unsaturated fatty acids was observed. The use of the fermented curly kale juice improved the textural characteristics and changed the microstructure of the obtained cheese. Finally, the ripening process enhanced the amino acid profile of the Feta-type cheese. These findings indicate that the fermented curly kale juice can be used for manufacture of cheese with improved characteristics and functional properties.
Wind Tunnel Measurements of Surface Shear Stress on an Isolated Dune Downwind a Bridge
Authors: Wang Wenbo , Dun Hongchao , He Wei , Huang Ning
Published: June 2020

As part of a comprehensive environmental assessment of the Dun-Gel railway project located in Dunhuang city, Gansu Province, China, a wind tunnel experiment was proposed to predict surface shear stress changes on a sand dune when a bridge was built upstream it. The results show that the length of the wall shear stress shelter region of a bridge is about 10 times of the bridge height (H). In the cases that the interval of the bridge and sand dune (S) is less than 5 H, normalized wall shear stress on the windward crest is decreased from 1.75 (isolated dune) to 1.0 (S = 5.0 H, measured downwind bridge pier) and 1.5 (S = 5.0 H, measured in the middle line of two adjacent bridge piers). In addition, the mean surface shear stress in the downstream zone of the sand dune model is reduced by the bridge pier and is increased by the bridge desk. As for the fluctuation of surface shear stress ( ζ ) on the windward crest, ζ decreases from 1.3 (in the isolated dune case) to 1.2 (in the case S = 5.0 H, measured just downwind the pier) and increases from 1.3 (in the isolated dune case) to 1.6 (in the cases S = 5.0 H, in the middle of two adjacent piers). Taking the mean and fluctuation of surface shear stress into consideration together, we introduce a parameter ψ ranging from 0 to 1. A low value indicates deposition and a high value indicates erosion. On the windward slope, the value of ψ increases with height (from 0 at toe to 0.98 at crest). However, in the cases of S = 1.5 H, ψ is decreased by the bridge in the lower part of the sand dune at y = 0 and is increased at y = L/2 compared with the isolated dune case. In other cases, the change of ψ on the windward slope is not as prominent as in the case of S = 1.5 H. Downstream the sand dune, erosion starts in a point that exists between x = 10 H and 15 H in all cases.
Evaluation of Two Extraction Methods for the Analysis of Hydrophilic Low Molecular Weight Compounds from Ganoderma lucidum Spores and Antiproliferative Activity on Human Cell Lines
Authors: Salvatore Maria Michela , De Gregorio Vincenza , Gallo Monica , Corsaro Maria Michela , Casillo Angela , Vecchione Raffaele , Andolfi Anna , Naviglio Daniele , Netti Paolo Antonio
Published: June 2020

Background: The genus Ganoderma includes about 80 species of mushrooms. Ganoderma lucidum is the best-known fungal species in mycotherapy and likely has the highest number of studies. Numerous bioactive compounds seem to be responsible for its beneficial effects; in particular, triterpenes, peptidoglycans and polysaccharides are the main physiologically active constituents. The aim of the present work is to identify the main bioactive components in aqueous extracts of G. lucidum spores obtained by two different extraction processes. Methods: The spores were at first extracted by a Soxhlet apparatus with n-hexane and the aqueous solutions were submitted to two different procedures: hot water extraction (HWE) and rapid solid-liquid dynamic extraction (RSLDE) using the Naviglio extractor. The extracts were then dialyzed to separate the compounds with higher molecular weight from polar compounds with lower molecular weight. The aqueous extracts and dialyzed fractions were tested on two human cell lines: human colonic epithelial cells (Caco-2) and human colorectal carcinoma cells (HTC-116). Results: GC-MS and NMR data revealed the presence of a mixture of glucose and mannitol in ratio 3.7:1 in the most active fraction. Conclusions: The outside dialysis phase of RSLDE extract seems to be particularly cytotoxic for HTC-116 and, interestingly, solutions with different concentrations of pure mannitol showed cytotoxic activity against this cell line too, although to a lesser extent.
Optical Angle Sensor Technology Based on the Optical Frequency Comb Laser
Authors: Shimizu Yuki , Matsukuma Hiraku , Gao Wei
Published: June 2020

A mode-locked femtosecond laser, which is often referred to as the optical frequency comb, has increasing applications in various industrial fields, including production engineering, in the last two decades. Many efforts have been made so far to apply the mode-locked femtosecond laser to the absolute distance measurement. In recent years, a mode-locked femtosecond laser has increasing application in angle measurement, where the unique characteristics of the mode-locked femtosecond laser such as the stable optical frequencies, equally-spaced modes in frequency domain, and the ultra-short pulse trains with a high peak power are utilized to achieve precision and stable angle measurement. In this review article, some of the optical angle sensor techniques based on the mode-locked femtosecond laser are introduced. First, the angle scale comb, which can be generated by combining the dispersive characteristic of a scale grating and the discretized modes in a mode-locked femtosecond laser, is introduced. Some of the mode-locked femtosecond laser autocollimators, which have been realized by combining the concept of the angle scale comb with the laser autocollimation, are also explained. Angle measurement techniques based on the absolute distance measurements, lateral chromatic aberration, and second harmonic generation (SHG) are also introduced.
Characterization of Demolition Construction Waste Containing Asbestos, and the Release of Fibrous Dust Particles
Authors: Stevulova Nadezda , Estokova Adriana , Holub Marian , Singovszka Eva , Csach Kornel
Published: June 2020

This paper focuses on the characterization of demolition construction waste containing asbestos fibers and the monitoring of fibrous dust released from asbestos–cement products (ACPs) during their removal from a three-story industrial building. Asbestos-containing products removal was carried out according to a demolition management system in terms of protection of workers. The results of a chemical analysis, X-ray diffraction analysis, infrared analysis and scanning electron microscopy of demolition waste samples confirmed the same material quality of asbestos–cement (AC) elements used throughout the building. In addition, a MgO/SiO2 ratio corresponding to a serpentine silicate mineral of chrysotile was detected by means of X-ray fluorescence analysis. Also, crystalline phase calcium silicates and calcium carbonates from the cement matrix were identified in the AC waste. The relatively large differences in the elemental analysis between the sample area and the individual points found by energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopic mapping are related to the composition heterogeneity. The highest content of magnesium occurs where asbestos fibers predominate in the cement matrix. The measured number concentrations of asbestos fibers before, during, and after asbestos–cement products removal were compared to outdoor concentrations. Indoor concentrations of asbestos fibers during the removal of AC materials did not exceed the permissible limit for a working environment (1000 fibers per one m3), except in three spots out of all the working sites inside the building. A relationship between the number and mass concentrations of asbestos dust is shown.
Elimination of Gear Clearance for the Rotary Table of Ultra Heavy Duty Vertical Milling Lathe Based on Dual Servo Motor Driving System
Authors: Jiang Hui , Fu Hongya , Han Zhenyu , Jin Hongyu
Published: June 2020

The effective way to improve the position accuracy of rotary table of ultra-heavy vertical milling lathe is to reduce or even eliminate the clearance of mechanical transmission structure. In this paper, a useful method for eliminating the gear clearance of C axis of heavy duty machine tool is proposed based on dual servo motor driving system. The principle of double gear anti-backlash is explained and the process of clearance elimination is determined by adjusting the driving torques of the two motors. The dynamic model of the driving system of the dual servo motor is established, so as to find the non-linearity of the clearance, wear and tooth clearance in the drive system. According to the dynamic model and simulation results, the master-slave control parameters of the dual servo motor system are optimized in order to eliminate the clearance and improve the accuracy of the dual drive C-axis. Experiments are carried out to verify the validity of the proposed anti-backlash method. The experimental result also shows that the indexing accuracy of the table has been improved by more than 50% under different working conditions.
Biostimulant Effect of Marine Macroalgae Bioextract on Pepper Grown in Greenhouse
Authors: Melo Paulo , Abreu Carlos , Bahcevandziev Kiril , Araujo Glácio , Pereira Leonel
Published: June 2020

Marine macroalgae are a vast source of raw materials and biologically active molecules used in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, food and agricultural industries. The search for a food free of chemical residues by consumers has led producers to use environmentally friendly and economically viable products as they are a source of natural compounds, forming a new and promising area of study. In this context, concentrated marine algae extracts (CMAEs) are an important alternative in this production model. This work aimed to evaluate the effects of CMAEs as biostimulants in plant metabolism, promotion of growth, development and production of pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) cultivated in a greenhouse. This work was carried out from 24 June to 30 October 2019. The number of leaves, plant length, fresh and dry plant mass, root length, root fresh and dry mass, fruit production and the metabolic performance were evaluated. The results of the stomatal conductance of pepper plants, production and biofortification were related with the levels of nutrients absorbed by the plant, which reflected the effect of the applied biostimulant. The dose that showed the most promising results was the 0.5% concentration of CMAEs.