bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Arrowleaf clover: potential for dryland farming systems in New Zealand
Authors: Evans P.M. , Mills A.
Published: June 2020

Arrowleaf clover (Trifolium vesiculosum L.) is a late maturing annual legume which has the potential to be used in a range of farming systems such as finishing lambs through to silage production and building soil fertility for future cropping. An experiment at Lincoln University, Canterbury, evaluated the performance of 'Arrotas' arrowleaf clover relative to white and subterranean clover Keywords: climate evaluation, T. repens, T. subterraneum, T. vesiculosum, dry matter yield
Forage mixed ration dairy farming - the pros and cons
Authors: Woodward S.L. , Roach C.G. , Macdonald K.A. , Siemelink J.C.
Published: June 2020

The effects of legume forages on whole farm productivity and profitability (Economic Farm Surplus, EFS) were assessed for the 2006/2007 and 2007/2008 milking years in a dairy farmlet systems trial. Keywords: dairying, Economic Farm Surplus, legumes, lotus, lucerne, milksolids, perennial ryegrass, red clover, white clover
Maximising subterranean clover in Marlborough's hill country is key to weaning 80% of sale lambs prime
Authors: Grigg D.W. , Grigg J.M. , Lucas R.J.
Published: June 2020

Pre-weaning lamb growth rates have dramatically increased on the hill country property Tempello, from 258 g/head/day in 2001 to 350 g/head/day in 2007. Total kilograms of lamb liveweight weaned off the Corriedale and Corriedale/Poll Dorset flock area has increased from 60 tonnes to 76 tonnes, despite a reduction in ewe numbers. Keywords: grazing management, hill country, lamb production, subterranean clover, summer dry
Comparison of Agrotain-treated and standard urea on an irrigated dairy pasture
Authors: Martin R.J. , Van der Weerden T.J. , Riddle M.U. , Butler R.C.
Published: June 2020

Trials were started in spring, summer and autumn to compare the effect of Agrotain-treated urea and standard urea, at application rates of 25, 50, 75 and 100 kg N/ha, on dairy pasture production on a commercial dairy farm in Canterbury. Keywords: nitrogen, urea, Agrotain, pasture, yield
НАПРУЖЕНО-ДЕФОРМОВАНИЙ СТАН, НЕСУЧА ЗДАТНІСТЬ ТА МОМЕНТ ВИНИКНЕННЯ ТРІЩИН ПОСТНАПРУЖЕНИХ ЗГИННИХ ЗАЛІЗОБЕТОННИХ ЕЛЕМЕНТІВ ЗА МОДИФІКОВАНИМ ДЕФОРМАЦІЙНИМ МЕТОДОМ
Authors: Бамбура А.М. , Дорогова О.В. , Петрик Ю.М.
Published: June 2020

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PENGARUH IMPLEMENTASI KEBIJAKAN PERUBAHAN STATUS DESA DAN KEPEMIMPINAN LURAH TERHADAP PEMBERDAYAAN MASYARAKAT HINTERLAND DI KOTA BATAM PROVINSI KEPULAUAN RIAU
Authors: Dione Frans Dione
Published: June 2020

ABSTRACTThe phenomenon used as the object of research is the empowerment of hinterland community in Batam City. The objectives of the research are (1) to analyze of the influence of the policy implementation of change village statute toward the empowerment of hinterland community; (2) to analyze of the influence of village master leadership toward the empowerment of hinterland community; (3) to analyze of the influence of the policy implementation of change village statute and village master leadership together toward the empowerment of hinterland community; (4) Obtain a new concept from discussion of influence of the policy implementation of change village statute toward the empowerment of hinterland community; (5) Obtain a new concept from the influence of the village master leadership toward the empowerment of hinterland community. The research used quantitative research approach; A sample of 220 respondents taken from a population of 1574 people using sample size SEM; Data collection using literature study, interview and observation techniques; Data analysis using SEM Analysis and Regression Analysis. The conclusions are the following: The amount of influence of the policy implementation of change village statute toward the empowerment of hinterland community reaches 0,65, is determined by content of policy and context of Implementation.The amount of influence of village master leadership toward the empowerment of hinterland community reaches 0.54, is determined by personality, role, organization, task, values, and setting. Therefore, influence of the policy implementation of change village statute and village master leadership together toward the empowerment of hinterland community. New Concept derived from the discussion of influence of the policy implementation of change village statute toward the empowerment of hinterland community is the new concept I about context implementation of basic government policy. New Concept derived from the discussion of influence of the village master leadership toward the empowerment of hinterland community is the new concept IIabout bureaucracy leadership behavior setting.

Keywords: policy implementation, village master leadership, community empowerment
KEBIJAKAN RAPID TEST DRIVE THRU OLEH PEMERINTAH DAERAH PROVINSI JAWA BARAT
Authors: Nunsi Galuh Pravita , Gusa Karin Agustin
Published: June 2020

This study aims to see the extent to which the West Java Regional Government applies a policy of rapid test drive thru located in Gedung Sate and Bandung City Hall. The rapid test drive thru technique is done inside the vehicle without having to get out of the vehicle. This research uses a qualitative method with a description model (event). Retrieval of data sourced from secondary data conducted through social media. The results of this study indicate that there are still obstacles that occur in the application of rapid test drive thru.

 

Keywords : Policy, Rapid Test Drive Thru, Covid-19
SMALL SCALE STUDIO SETUP (4S) CREATION : CURRENT TRENDS IN ANIMATION INDUSTRY ENTREPENEURSHIP
Authors: Abdul Manaf Ahmad Azaini , Hamzah Fytullah , Abidin Azwan
Published: June 2020

Self-employment and self-entrepreneurship activities among graduates in local and global economic trends lead to the birth of small scale animation studios. Government funding and business exposure in higher learning institutions are driving the young workforce to establish their own company rather than working for others. The current generations of graduates are very much in favor of entrepreneurship and begin to break away from the notion of stability in conventional professions due to the lack of flexible work-life balance and office benefits. Company ownership and financial freedom self-management remain the most recent phenomena in today's graduates. The idea of maintaining self-expression and control of the personal intellectual property is driving the young animator to venture into a small scale studio setup (4S).
The Role of Ownership in Increasing Firm Value of Manufacturing Industry in Indonesia
Authors: Handriani Eka
Published: June 2020

This study examines the effect of the independent commissioner’s composition, audit committee, firm size, and profitability toward the value of manufacturing companies listed in the Indonesia Stock Exchange. The population of this research is manufacturing companies listed in the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) from 2013-2015 that reported a complete annual report and published in the Indonesian Capital Market Directory. Researchers used a purposive sampling method and employed 208 companies as samples, and data processing in the study used multiple linear regression. Findings. This study find that the independent commissioner’s composition and Audit Committee has no significant effect on firm value. Finding also shows that firm size and profitability has a positive significant effect on firm value. Based on those findings, investors have to use financial information, especially financial reports, as information for long-term investment decisions. The finding may be useful for the listed companies in Indonesia Stock Exchange since they must know their size and profitability, and those variables are important to enhance their value.
STRATEGI MENINGKATKAN KEUNGGULAN BERSAING PADA PT RESTU BUMI LESTARI
Authors: Herman Hendri
Published: June 2020

This study aims to determine the strategies that can be carried out by companies in increasing competitive advantage. The object of this study is PT Restu Bumi Lestari with 45 respondents. The research data was obtained using a questionnaire. The results of this study are that prices significantly influence competitive advantage, service quality significantly influences competitive advantage, and price and service quality simultaneously have a significant effect on competitive advantage.
Stocking Density Affects Welfare Indicators in Horses Reared for Meat Production
Authors: Raspa Federica , Tarantola Martina , Bergero Domenico , Bellino Claudio , Mastrazzo Chiara Maria , Visconti Alice , Valvassori Ermenegildo , Vervuert Ingrid , Valle Emanuela
Published: June 2020

Horses kept for meat production are reared in intensive breeding farms. We employed a checklist adapted from the Animal Welfare Indicators (AWIN) assessment protocol. Our evaluation aims to assess whether welfare indicators are influenced by stocking densities (m2/horse) and feeding strategies applied. An analysis was carried out on the data obtained from 7 surveys conducted at a single horse farm designed for meat production. In each survey, the same 12 pens were assessed, but on each occasion, the horses in the pens had been changed as had the stocking densities. Briefly, 561 horses aged 16 ± 8 months (mean ± standard deviation) were evaluated. Two stocking density cut-off values (median and 75th percentile: 3.95 and 4.75 m2/horse, respectively) were applied to investigate the effect of stocking density on horse welfare. Data were analysed using Mann–Whitney U and Fisher’s exact tests (p < 0.05). When cut-off was set as the median percentile, lower stocking density was associated with improvements in body condition score (BCS), coat cleanliness and bedding quantity, less coughing, less resting in a standing position, and less feeding related to the greater space available at the feed bunk. When the 75th percentile cut-off was used, indicators that improved were coat cleanliness, bedding quantity and mane and tail condition, as well as less resting in standing position and less feeding related to the greater space available at the feed bunk. Accordingly, the use of two different stocking density cut-off values showed that the increase of space allowance affected specific welfare indicators. Further increment of space and/or changes in management regimes should be investigated to improve all the indicators. Moreover, results related to feeding indicated the need to intervene as starch intakes exceeded recommended safe levels, negatively affecting horse welfare.
Dispersion of CO Using Computational Fluid Dynamics in a Real Urban Canyon in the City Center of Valencia (Spain)
Authors: Marulanda Tobón Alejandro , Moncho-Esteve Ignacio José , Martínez-Corral Jordi , Palau-Salvador Guillermo
Published: June 2020

One of the main environmental problems we are currently facing is air pollution. Air quality models calculate how much pollution is emitted and dispersed into the atmosphere. This research presents a Computational Fluid Dynamic model using a real urban geometry for the analysis of CO contamination with a three-dimensional model. This method includes a procedure of calculating emissions using different types of vehicles. CO Measurements are obtained from a Wireless Sensor Network to validate the models. The present study analyzes six representative real cases of different traffic situations and climatic conditions plus 3 hypothetical cases in a hotspot area in the city center of Valencia. The results show what influences pollution levels the most is the wind direction, which influences the generation of velocity patterns. In the validation cases, the real wind direction is used and a slight change produces great differences in both velocities and CO concentration. In the hypothetical cases, parallel and perpendicular winds are defined to observe the differences when this ideal situation is applied. In conclusion, the mixing and transport of air pollutants are closely related to the structures of velocity and turbulence that occur in the air, which depends strongly on the wind direction.
Potential of Tyrosine Kinase Receptor TIE-1 as Novel Therapeutic Target in High-PI3K-Expressing Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Zhang Xuewei , Ishibashi Masumi , Kitatani Kazuyuki , Shigeta Shogo , Tokunaga Hideki , Toyoshima Masafumi , Shimada Muneaki , Yaegashi Nobuo
Published: June 2020

Tyrosine kinase receptor TIE-1 plays a critical role in angiogenesis and blood-vessel stability. In recent years, increased TIE-1 expression has been observed in many types of cancers; however, the biological significance and underlying mechanisms remain unknown. Thus, in the present study, we investigated the tumor biological functions of TIE-1 in ovarian cancer. The treatment of SKOV3 ovarian-cancer cells with siRNA against TIE-1 decreased the expression of key molecules in the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, such as p110α and phospho-Akt, suggesting that TIE-1 is related to the PI3K/Akt pathway. Furthermore, the knockdown of TIE-1 significantly decreased cell proliferation in high-PI3K-expressing cell lines (SKOV3, CAOV3) but not low-PI3K-expressing cell lines (TOV112D, A2780). These results suggested that inhibition of TIE-1 decreases cell growth in high-PI3K-expressing cells. Moreover, in low-PI3K-expressing TOV112D ovarian-cancer cells, TIE-1 overexpression induced PI3K upregulation and promoted a PI3K-mediated cell proliferative phenotype. Mechanistically, TIE-1 participates in cell growth and proliferation by regulating the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Taken together, our findings strongly implicate TIE-1 as a novel therapeutic target in high-PI3K-expressing ovarian-cancer cells.
Current and Future Treatments in the Fight against Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Smeuninx Benoit , Boslem Ebru , Febbraio Mark A.
Published: June 2020

Obesity is recognised as a risk factor for many types of cancers, in particular hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). A critical factor in the development of HCC from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the presence of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Therapies aimed at NASH to reduce the risk of HCC are sparse and largely unsuccessful. Lifestyle modifications such as diet and regular exercise have poor adherence. Moreover, current pharmacological treatments such as pioglitazone and vitamin E have limited effects on fibrosis, a key risk factor in HCC progression. As NAFLD is becoming more prevalent in developed countries due to rising rates of obesity, a need for directed treatment is imperative. Numerous novel therapies including PPAR agonists, anti-fibrotic therapies and agents targeting inflammation, oxidative stress and the gut-liver axis are currently in development, with the aim of targeting key processes in the progression of NASH and HCC. Here, we critically evaluate literature on the aetiology of NAFLD-related HCC, and explore the potential treatment options for NASH and HCC.
Efficacy of Panitumumab and Cetuximab in Patients with Colorectal Cancer Previously Treated with Bevacizumab; a Combined Analysis of Individual Patient Data from ASPECCT and WJOG6510G
Authors: Taniguchi Hiroya , Yamanaka Takeharu , Sakai Daisuke , Muro Kei , Yamazaki Kentaro , Nakata Susumu , Kimura Hiroyuki , Ruff Paul , Kim Tae Won , Peeters Marc , Price Timothy
Published: June 2020

Background: Phase-III ASPECCT and randomised phase-II WJOG6510G trials demonstrated the noninferiority of panitumumab, when compared with cetuximab, for overall survival in patients with chemotherapy-refractory wild-type KRAS exon 2 metastatic colorectal cancer. Methods: The subgroup that received bevacizumab either prior to panitumumab or cetuximab monotherapy (ASPECCT) or in combination with irinotecan (WJOG6510G) was included. Multivariate Cox models were created, including the treatment arms as covariates together with patient, disease and treatment characteristics. Results: We included 185 and 189 patients in the panitumumab and cetuximab arms, respectively. The median overall survival was 12.8 and 10.1 months [p = 0.0031; log-rank test, stratified by trial; hazard ratio (HR), 0.72; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.58–0.90], and the median progression-free survival was 4.7 and 4.1 months, in the panitumumab and cetuximab arms, respectively (p = 0.0207; HR, 0.79; 95% CI, 0.64–0.97). The treatment regimen was an independent prognostic factor of overall survival (adjusted HR, 0.69; 95% CI, 0.54–0.87; p = 0.0013). Conclusions: Panitumumab significantly prolonged the overall survival and progression-free survival, when compared with cetuximab in the cohort that previously received bevacizumab in the included studies. Clinical Trial Registration: ASPECCT trial registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01001377) and WJOG6510G trial registered with UMIN-CTR (UMIN000006643).
Design, Implementation, Evaluation and Application of a 32-Channel Radio Frequency Signal Generator for Thermal Magnetic Resonance Based Anti-Cancer Treatment
Authors: Han Haopeng , Eigentler Thomas Wilhelm , Wang Shuailin , Kretov Egor , Winter Lukas , Hoffmann Werner , Grass Eckhard , Niendorf Thoralf
Published: June 2020

Thermal Magnetic Resonance (ThermalMR) leverages radio frequency (RF)-induced heating to examine the role of temperature in biological systems and disease. To advance RF heating with multi-channel RF antenna arrays and overcome the shortcomings of current RF signal sources, this work reports on a 32-channel modular signal generator (SGPLL). The SGPLL was designed around phase-locked loop (PLL) chips and a field-programmable gate array chip. To examine the system properties, switching/settling times, accuracy of RF power level and phase shifting were characterized. Electric field manipulation was successfully demonstrated in deionized water. RF heating was conducted in a phantom setup using self-grounded bow-tie RF antennae driven by the SGPLL. Commercial signal generators limited to a lower number of RF channels were used for comparison. RF heating was evaluated with numerical temperature simulations and experimentally validated with MR thermometry. Numerical temperature simulations and heating experiments controlled by the SGPLL revealed the same RF interference patterns. Upon RF heating similar temperature changes across the phantom were observed for the SGPLL and for the commercial devices. To conclude, this work presents the first 32-channel modular signal source for RF heating. The large number of coherent RF channels, wide frequency range and accurate phase shift provided by the SGPLL form a technological basis for ThermalMR controlled hyperthermia anti-cancer treatment.
Calcium Signaling Alterations Caused by Epigenetic Mechanisms in Pancreatic Cancer: From Early Markers to Prognostic Impact
Authors: Gregório Cleandra , Soares-Lima Sheila Coelho , Alemar Bárbara , Recamonde-Mendoza Mariana , Camuzi Diego , de Souza-Santos Paulo Thiago , Rivero Raquel , Machado Simone , Osvaldt Alessandro , Ashton-Prolla Patricia , Pinto Luis Felipe Ribeiro
Published: June 2020

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an aggressive disease with high mortality rates. PDAC initiation and progression are promoted by genetic and epigenetic dysregulation. Here, we aimed to characterize the PDAC DNA methylome in search of novel altered pathways associated with tumor development. We examined the genome-wide DNA methylation profile of PDAC in an exploratory cohort including the comparative analyses of tumoral and non-tumoral pancreatic tissues (PT). Pathway enrichment analysis was used to choose differentially methylated (DM) CpGs with potential biological relevance. Additional samples were used in a validation cohort. DNA methylation impact on gene expression and its association with overall survival (OS) was investigated from PDAC TCGA (The Cancer Genome Atlas) data. Pathway analysis revealed DM genes in the calcium signaling pathway that is linked to the key pathways in pancreatic carcinogenesis. DNA methylation was frequently correlated with expression, and a subgroup of calcium signaling genes was associated with OS, reinforcing its probable phenotypic effect. Cluster analysis of PT samples revealed that some of the methylation alterations observed in the Calcium signaling pathway seemed to occur early in the carcinogenesis process, a finding that may open new insights about PDAC tumor biology.
Cancer Stem Cell-Inducing Media Activates Senescence Reprogramming in Fibroblasts
Authors: Perrigue Patrick M. , Rakoczy Magdalena , Pawlicka Kamila P. , Belter Agnieszka , Giel-Pietraszuk Małgorzata , Naskręt-Barciszewska Mirosława , Barciszewski Jan , Figlerowicz Marek
Published: June 2020

Cellular senescence is a tumor-suppressive mechanism blocking cell proliferation in response to stress. However, recent evidence suggests that senescent tumor cells can re-enter the cell cycle to become cancer stem cells, leading to relapse after cancer chemotherapy treatment. Understanding how the senescence reprogramming process is a precursor to cancer stem cell formation is of great medical importance. To study the interplay between senescence, stemness, and cancer, we applied a stem cell medium (SCM) to human embryonic fibroblasts (MRC5 and WI-38) and cancer cell lines (A549 and 293T). MRC5 and WI-38 cells treated with SCM showed symptoms of oxidative stress and became senescent. Transcriptome analysis over a time course of SCM-induced senescence, revealed a developmental process overlapping with the upregulation of genes for growth arrest and the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). We demonstrate that histone demethylases jumonji domain-containing protein D3 (Jmjd3) and ubiquitously transcribed tetratricopeptide repeat, X chromosome (Utx), which operate by remodeling chromatin structure, are implicated in the senescence reprogramming process to block stem cell formation in fibroblasts. In contrast, A549 and 293T cells cultured in SCM were converted to cancer stem cells that displayed the phenotype of senescence uncoupled from growth arrest. The direct overexpression of DNA methyltransferases (Dnmt1 and Dnmt3A), ten-eleven translocation methylcytosine dioxygenases (Tet1 and Tet3), Jmjd3, and Utx proteins could activate senescence-associated beta-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) activity in 293T cells, suggesting that epigenetic alteration and chromatin remodeling factors trigger the senescence response. Overall, our study suggests that chromatin machinery controlling senescence reprogramming is significant in cancer stem cell formation.
Moonlighting in Mitosis: Analysis of the Mitotic Functions of Transcription and Splicing Factors
Authors: Somma Maria Patrizia , Andreyeva Evgeniya N. , Pavlova Gera A. , Pellacani Claudia , Bucciarelli Elisabetta , Popova Julia V. , Bonaccorsi Silvia , Pindyurin Alexey V. , Gatti Maurizio
Published: June 2020

Moonlighting proteins can perform one or more additional functions besides their primary role. It has been posited that a protein can acquire a moonlighting function through a gradual evolutionary process, which is favored when the primary and secondary functions are exerted in different cellular compartments. Transcription factors (TFs) and splicing factors (SFs) control processes that occur in interphase nuclei and are strongly reduced during cell division, and are therefore in a favorable situation to evolve moonlighting mitotic functions. However, recently published moonlighting protein databases, which comprise almost 400 proteins, do not include TFs and SFs with secondary mitotic functions. We searched the literature and found several TFs and SFs with bona fide moonlighting mitotic functions, namely they localize to specific mitotic structure(s), interact with proteins enriched in the same structure(s), and are required for proper morphology and functioning of the structure(s). In addition, we describe TFs and SFs that localize to mitotic structures but cannot be classified as moonlighting proteins due to insufficient data on their biochemical interactions and mitotic roles. Nevertheless, we hypothesize that most TFs and SFs with specific mitotic localizations have either minor or redundant moonlighting functions, or are evolving towards the acquisition of these functions.
Parametric Study of Ultrasonic De-Icing Method on a Plate with Coating
Authors: Shi Zhonghua , Zhao Yueqing , Ma Chengkun , Zhang Jifeng
Published: June 2020

Ultrasonic de-icing is a promising method to de-ice structures by using lightweight and simple transducers, with the advantage of low power consumption. A successful ultrasonic de-icing technique requires the understanding of the effects of different parameters on de-icing. This paper presents a thorough parametric study of the ultrasonic de-icing method on a plate with coating. First, the dispersion equations of shear horizontal (SH) and Lamb waves were derived based on the global matrix method. Meanwhile, interface shear concentration coefficients (ISCC) were introduced to represent the ability of ultrasonic de-icing, which was further integrated into Lamb wave and SH waves dispersion curves for the selection of optimal frequencies. Second, a three-layer plate model (host plate-coating-ice) was used to demonstrate the effect of different parameters of coating and the thickness of ice on ultrasonic de-icing. The theoretical model provided the design principle of coating and ultrasonic parameters required for efficient de-icing. Finally, an experiment was conducted on an ultrasonic de-icing platform to validate the proposed ultrasonic de-icing method. In this process, material parameters including the Young’s modulus, thickness of coating, and thickness of the ice layer were analyzed. The trends of power consumption and optimal frequency of experiments are in good agreement with the analytical calculated results.
Ultra-Short Pulse HiPIMS: A Strategy to Suppress Arcing during Reactive Deposition of SiO2 Thin Films with Enhanced Mechanical and Optical Properties
Authors: Tiron Vasile , Velicu Ioana-Laura , Matei Teodora , Cristea Daniel , Cunha Luis , Stoian George
Published: June 2020

In this contribution, based on the detailed understanding of the processes’ characteristics during reactive high-power impulse magnetron sputtering (HiPIMS), we demonstrated the deposition of silicon oxide (SiO2) thin films with improved optical and mechanical performances. A strategy for stabilizing the arc-free HiPIMS of Si target in the presence of oxygen was investigated. Arcing was suppressed by suitable pulse configurations, ensuring good process stability without using any feedback control system. It was found that arcing can be significantly alleviated when ultra-short HiPIMS pulses are applied on the target. The optical and mechanical properties of SiO2 coatings deposited at various pulsing configurations were analyzed. The coatings prepared by ultra-short pulse HiPIMS exhibited better optical and mechanical performance compared to the coatings prepared by long pulse HiPIMS. The optimized SiO2 coatings on quartz substrates exhibited an average transmittance of 98.5% in the 190–1100-nm wavelength range, hardness of 9.27 GPa, hardness/Young’s modulus ratio of 0.138, and critical adhesion load of 14.8 N. The optical and mechanical properties are correlated with the film morphology, which is inherently related to energetic conditions and process stability during film growth.
Morphology, Hardness and Wear Properties of Plasma Cladding NiCrCu Coating on M2 High-Speed Steel
Authors: Zhang Shengwei , Lei Min , Wan Mingpan , Huang Chaowen
Published: June 2020

To improve the cutting performance, the red hardness and wear resistance of M2 high-speed steel, as well as expand the application field, in this work, a coating was fabricated via plasma cladding on M2 high-speed steel using Ni, Cr and Cu alloy elements as precursor materials. The distribution and composition of alloying elements, microhardness and wear resistance of the coating were studied. The results show that the NiCrCu cladding layer contains many types of carbides. The secondary hardening caused by the dispersion of carbides can significantly improve the hardness, red hardness and wear resistance of material. The hardness of cladding layer is above 950 HV, after holding at 600 °C for 4 h, the hardness is above 932 HV. The alloy elements are evenly distributed, but, due to the rapid solidification after the cladding, there are composition fluctuations in the longitudinal direction. The wear resistance of the cladding layer is excellent; the wear rate is reduced from 1.75 to 1.44 × 10−6 mm3 N−1 m−1 or less; and the wear mechanism is a combination of abrasive wear and adhesive wear.
An Update to the TraVA Database: Time Series of Capsella bursa-pastoris Shoot Apical Meristems during Transition to Flowering
Authors: Klepikova Anna V. , Kasianov Artem S.
Published: June 2020

Transition to flowering is a crucial part of plant life directly affecting the fitness of a plant. Time series of transcriptomes is a useful tool for the investigation of process dynamics and can be used for the identification of novel genes and gene networks involved in the process. We present a detailed time series of polyploid Capsella bursa-pastoris shoot apical meristems created with RNA-seq. The time series covers transition to flowering and can be used for thorough analysis of the process. To make the data easy to access, we uploaded them in our database Transcriptome Variation Analysis (TraVA), which provides a convenient depiction of the gene expression profiles, the differential expression analysis between the homeologs and quick data extraction.
Nitrogen Sources Effect on Lactobacillus reuteri Growth and Performance Cultivated in Date Palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) By-Products
Authors: Ayad Amira A. , Gad El-Rab Deiaa A. , Ibrahim Salam A. , Williams Leonard L.
Published: June 2020

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are fastidious microorganisms that have specific nutritional requirements. The de Man, Rogosa, and Sharpe (MRS) is an expensive standard growth medium for LAB to produce lactic acid, and the industry is always looking for an alternative low-cost medium. The date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) is naturally full of essential nutrients that lead to stimulate or promote the growth of Lactobacillus spp. The date fruit industries generate a large amount of unwanted date by-product. Thus, the objective of this study was to examine the effect of different nitrogen sources on the growth of Lactobacillus reuteri grown in a date base medium. In this study, date palm fruit was pressed, and the fiber was blended with distilled water, centrifuged, and the supernatant was autoclaved to obtain date palm extract (DPE). The date palm medium (DPM) was formed by mixing the DPE with buffer solution. The DPM was then supplemented with different concentrations of different nitrogen sources. Lactobacilli MRS was used as a standard growth medium. Three different L. reuteri strains were individually inoculated into batches of MRS and DPMs at an initial inoculum 2.5 Log CFU/mL, and then incubated at 37 °C for 18 h. Bacterial growth was monitored by measuring the optical density readings (O.D 610 nm) for up to 18 h. At the end of the incubation period, final populations of each individual strain were verified by enumeration of the MRS agar. Our results showed that the bacterial population in DPM (control; without nitrogen), reached 3.55 ± 0.5 Log CFU/mL. However, the bacterial populations that reached 7.03 ± 0.1 Log CFU/mL in the DPM medium were supplemented with 0.8% phytone peptone, compared to the MRS 7.90 ± 0.24 Log CFU/mL. Our findings thus suggest that date by-products could be used as a low-cost alternative for the LAB growth medium.
Assessment of CFD Solvers and Turbulent Models for Water Free Jets in Spillways
Authors: Muralha António , Melo José F. , Ramos Helena M.
Published: June 2020

The capability of two different OpenFOAM® solvers, namely interFoam and twoPhaseEulerFoam, in reproducing the behavior of a free water jet was investigated. Numerical simulations were performed in order to obtain the velocity and air concentration profiles along the jet. The turbulence intensity was also analyzed. The obtained results were compared with published experimental data and, in general, similar velocity and air concentration profiles were found. InterFoam solver is able to reproduce the velocity field of the free jet but has limitations in the simulation of the air concentration. TwoPhaseEulerFoam performs better in reproducing the air concentration along the jet, the results being in agreement with the experimental data, although the computational runs are less stable and more time consuming. The sensitivity analysis of the inlet turbulent intensity showed that it has no influence in the characteristics of the jet core. With this research it is possible to conclude that: interFoam with k-Epsilon (k-ε) turbulence model is the best choice if the goal of the numerical simulations is the simulation of the velocity field of the jet. Meanwhile, twoPhaseEulerFoam with mixturek-Epsilon (mk-ε) shall be considered if the objective is the simulation of the velocity field and the air concentration.
Jellyfish and Fish Solve the Challenges of Turning Dynamics Similarly to Achieve High Maneuverability
Authors: Dabiri John O. , Colin Sean P. , Gemmell Brad J. , Lucas Kelsey N. , Leftwich Megan C. , Costello John H.
Published: June 2020

Turning maneuvers by aquatic animals are essential for fundamental life functions such as finding food or mates while avoiding predation. However, turning requires resolution of a fundamental dilemma based in rotational mechanics: the force powering a turn (torque) is favored by an expanded body configuration that maximizes lever arm length, yet minimizing the resistance to a turn (the moment of inertia) is favored by a contracted body configuration. How do animals balance these opposing demands? Here, we directly measure instantaneous forces along the bodies of two animal models—the radially symmetric Aurelia aurita jellyfish, and the bilaterally symmetric Danio rerio zebrafish—to evaluate their turning dynamics. Both began turns with a small, rapid shift in body kinematics that preceded major axial rotation. Although small in absolute magnitude, the high fluid accelerations achieved by these initial motions generated powerful pressure gradients that maximized torque at the start of a turn. This pattern allows these animals to initially maximize torque production before major body curvature changes. Both animals then subsequently minimized the moment of inertia, and hence resistance to axial rotation, by body bending. This sequential solution provides insight into the advantages of re-arranging mass by bending during routine swimming turns.
Characterisation of Biologically Active Hydrolysates and Peptide Fractions of Vacuum Packaging String Bean (Phaseolus Vulgaris L.)
Authors: Jakubczyk Anna , Karaś Monika , Stanikowski Piotr , Rutkowska Beata , Dziedzic Magdalena , Zielińska Ewelina , Szychowski Konrad A. , Binduga Urszula E. , Rybczyńska-Tkaczyk Kamila , Baraniak Barbara
Published: June 2020

The aim of the study is to characterise biologically active hydolysates and peptide fractions obtained from vacuum-packed string beans (Phaseolus vulragis L.) (PB). Unpacked beans were a control sample. The influence on human squamous carcinoma cell line SCC-15 (ATCC CRL-1623) was determined. Packed bean (PB) and unpacked bean (UB) extracts were found to exert no effect on the tongue squamous carcinoma cells. The results of the study indicated that the packing process contributed to the retention of protein, soluble dietary fibre, and free sugar (2.36, 3.5, and 1.79 g/100 d.m., respectively). PB was characterised by higher antioxidant activity (expressed as neutralisation of 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS ABTS•+) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH·) free radicals) as well as Fe2+ chelation and reducing power (IC50 = 54.56, 0.46, 3.85 mg mL−1; 0.088 A700/peptide content, respectively) than the UB samples before hydrolysis. The hydrolysis process enhanced these properties. The IC50 value of lipase and α-amylase inhibitory activity of the hydrolysates obtained from UB was reduced. The PB and UB fractions exhibited a certain level of antimicrobial activity against S. aureus and E. coli. Candida albicans were not sensitive to these peptide fractions.
Evaluation of the CRISPR/Cas9 Genetic Constructs in Efficient Disruption of Porcine Genes for Xenotransplantation Purposes Along with an Assessment of the Off-Target Mutation Formation
Authors: Ryczek Natalia , Hryhorowicz Magdalena , Lipiński Daniel , Zeyland Joanna , Słomski Ryszard
Published: June 2020

The increasing life expectancy of humans has led to an increase in the number of patients with chronic diseases and organ failure. However, the imbalance between the supply and the demand for human organs is a serious problem in modern transplantology. One of many solutions to overcome this problem is the use of xenotransplantation. The domestic pig (Sus scrofa domestica) is currently considered as the most suitable for human organ procurement. However, there are discrepancies between pigs and humans that lead to the creation of immunological barriers preventing the direct xenograft. The introduction of appropriate modifications to the pig genome to prevent xenograft rejection is crucial in xenotransplantation studies. In this study, porcine GGTA1, CMAH, β4GalNT2, vWF, ASGR1 genes were selected to introduce genetic modifications. The evaluation of three selected gRNAs within each gene was obtained, which enabled the selection of the best site for efficient introduction of changes. Modifications were examined after nucleofection of porcine primary kidney fibroblasts with CRISPR/Cas9 system genetic constructs, followed by the tracking of indels by decomposition (TIDE) analysis. In addition, off-target analysis was carried out for selected best gRNAs using the TIDE tool, which is new in the research conducted so far and shows the utility of this tool in these studies.
The Potential Effect of Aberrant Testosterone Levels on Common Diseases: A Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Syed Ali Alamdar Shah , He Lin , Shi Yongyong
Published: June 2020

Testosterone has historically been linked to sexual dysfunction; however, it has recently been shown to affect other physical and mental attributes. We attempted to determine whether changes in serum testosterone could play a role in chronic or degenerative diseases. We used two separate genetic instruments comprising of variants from JMJD1C and SHBG regions and conducted a two-sample Mendelian randomization for type II diabetes (T2D), gout, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, Alzheimer’s disease and depression. For the JMJD1C locus, one unit increase in log transformed testosterone was significantly associated with RA (OR = 1.69, p = 0.02), gout (OR = 0.469, p = 0.001) and T2D (OR = 0.769, p = 0.048). Similarly, one unit increase in log transformed testosterone using variants from the SHBG locus was associated with depression (OR = 1.02, p = 0.001), RA (OR = 1.32, p < 0.001) and T2D (OR = 0.88, p = 0.003). Our results show that low levels of serum testosterone levels may cause gout and T2D, while higher than normal levels of testosterone may result in RA and depression. Our findings suggest that fluctuations in testosterone levels may have severe consequences that warrant further investigation.
Transcriptome Analysis of Skeletal Muscle Reveals Altered Proteolytic and Neuromuscular Junction Associated Gene Expressions in a Mouse Model of Cerebral Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Ferrandi Peter J. , Khan Mohammad Moshahid , Paez Hector G. , Pitzer Christopher R. , Alway Stephen E. , Mohamed Junaith S.
Published: June 2020

Stroke is a leading cause of mortality and long-term disability in patients worldwide. Skeletal muscle is the primary systemic target organ of stroke that induces muscle wasting and weakness, which predominantly contribute to functional disability in stroke patients. Currently, no pharmacological drug is available to treat post-stroke muscle morbidities as the mechanisms underlying post-stroke muscle wasting remain poorly understood. To understand the stroke-mediated molecular changes occurring at the transcriptional level in skeletal muscle, the gene expression profiles and enrichment pathways were explored in a mouse model of cerebral ischemic stroke via high-throughput RNA sequencing and extensive bioinformatic analyses. RNA-seq revealed that the elevated muscle atrophy observed in response to stroke was associated with the altered expression of genes involved in proteolysis, cell cycle, extracellular matrix remodeling, and the neuromuscular junction (NMJ). These data suggest that stroke primarily targets muscle protein degradation and NMJ pathway proteins to induce muscle atrophy. Collectively, we for the first time have found a novel genome-wide transcriptome signature of post-stroke skeletal muscle in mice. Our study will provide critical information to further elucidate specific gene(s) and pathway(s) that can be targeted to mitigate accountable for post-stroke muscle atrophy and related weakness.
Chasing the Apomictic Factors in the Ranunculus auricomus Complex: Exploring Gene Expression Patterns in Microdissected Sexual and Apomictic Ovules
Authors: Pellino Marco , Hojsgaard Diego , Hörandl Elvira , Sharbel Timothy F.
Published: June 2020

Apomixis, the asexual reproduction via seeds, is associated to polyploidy and hybridization. To identify possible signatures of apomixis, and possible candidate genes underlying the shift from sex to apomixis, microarray-based gene expression patterns of live microdissected ovules at four different developmental stages were compared between apomictic and sexual individuals of the Ranunculus auricomus complex. Following predictions from previous work on mechanisms underlying apomixis penetrance and expressivity in the genus, gene expression patterns were classified into three categories based on their relative expression in apomicts compared to their sexual parental ancestors. We found evidence of misregulation and differential gene expression between apomicts and sexuals, with the highest number of differences detected during meiosis progression and emergence of aposporous initial (AI) cells, a key developmental stage in the ovule of apomicts where a decision between divergent reproductive pathways takes place. While most of the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) could not be annotated, gene expression was classified into transgressive, parent of origin and ploidy effects. Genes related to gametogenesis and meiosis demonstrated patterns reflective of transgressive and genome dosage effects, which support the hypothesis of a dominant factor controlling apomixis in Ranunculus and modulated by secondary modifiers. Three genes with probable functions in sporogenesis and gametogenesis development are identified and characterized for future studies.
Transcriptomic Analysis of Gill and Kidney from Asian Seabass (Lates calcarifer) Acclimated to Different Salinities Reveals Pathways Involved with Euryhalinity
Authors: Vij Shubha , Purushothaman Kathiresan , Sridatta Prakki Sai Rama , Jerry Dean R.
Published: June 2020

Asian seabass (or commonly known as barramundi), Lates calcarifer, is a bony euryhaline teleost from the Family Latidae, inhabiting nearshore, estuarine, and marine connected freshwaters throughout the tropical Indo-West Pacific region. The species is catadromous, whereby adults spawn in salinities between 28 and 34 ppt at the mouth of estuaries, with resultant juveniles usually moving into brackish and freshwater systems to mature, before returning to the sea to spawn again as adults. The species lives in both marine and freshwater habitats and can move quickly between the two; thus, the species’ ability to tolerate changes in salinity makes it a good candidate for studying the salinity acclimation response in teleosts. In this study, the transcriptome of two major osmoregulatory organs (gills and kidneys) of young juvenile Asian seabass reared in freshwater and seawater were compared. The euryhaline nature of Asian seabass was found to be highly pliable and the moldability of the trait was further confirmed by histological analyses of gills and kidneys. Differences in major expression pathways were observed, with differentially expressed genes including those related to osmoregulation, tissue/organ morphogenesis, and cell volume regulation as central to the osmo-adaptive response. Additionally, genes coding for mucins were upregulated specifically under saline conditions, whereas several genes important for growth and development, as well as circadian entrainment were specifically enriched in fish reared in freshwater. Routing of the circadian rhythm mediated by salinity changes could be the initial step in salinity acclimation and possibly migration in euryhaline fish species such as the Asian seabass.
Two-Day Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing in Females with a Severe Grade of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Comparison with Patients with Mild and Moderate Disease
Authors: van Campen C (Linda) M. C. , Rowe Peter C. , Visser Frans C.
Published: June 2020

Introduction: Effort intolerance along with a prolonged recovery from exercise and post-exertional exacerbation of symptoms are characteristic features of myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). The gold standard to measure the degree of physical activity intolerance is cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET). Multiple studies have shown that peak oxygen consumption is reduced in the majority of ME/CFS patients, and that a 2-day CPET protocol further discriminates between ME/CFS patients and sedentary controls. Limited information is present on ME/CFS patients with a severe form of the disease. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare the effects of a 2-day CPET protocol in female ME/CFS patients with a severe grade of the disease to mildly and moderately affected ME/CFS patients. Methods and results: We studied 82 female patients who had undergone a 2-day CPET protocol. Measures of oxygen consumption (VO2), heart rate (HR) and workload both at peak exercise and at the ventilatory threshold (VT) were collected. ME/CFS disease severity was graded according to the International Consensus Criteria. Thirty-one patients were clinically graded as having mild disease, 31 with moderate and 20 with severe disease. Baseline characteristics did not differ between the 3 groups. Within each severity group, all analyzed CPET parameters (peak VO2, VO2 at VT, peak workload and the workload at VT) decreased significantly from day-1 to day-2 (p-Value between 0.003 and <0.0001). The magnitude of the change in CPET parameters from day-1 to day-2 was similar between mild, moderate, and severe groups, except for the difference in peak workload between mild and severe patients (p = 0.019). The peak workload decreases from day-1 to day-2 was largest in the severe ME/CFS group (−19 (11) %). Conclusion: This relatively large 2-day CPET protocol study confirms previous findings of the reduction of various exercise variables in ME/CFS patients on day-2 testing. This is the first study to demonstrate that disease severity negatively influences exercise capacity in female ME/CFS patients. Finally, this study shows that the deterioration in peak workload from day-1 to day-2 is largest in the severe ME/CFS patient group.