bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Can Socioeconomic, Health, and Safety Data Explain the Spread of COVID-19 Outbreak on Brazilian Federative Units?
Authors: Galvan Diego , Effting Luciane , Cremasco Hágata , Adam Conte-Junior Carlos
Published: December 2020

Infinite factors can influence the spread of COVID-19. Evaluating factors related to the spread of the disease is essential to point out measures that take effect. In this study, the influence of 14 variables was assessed together by Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) of the type Self-Organizing Maps (SOM), to verify the relationship between numbers of cases and deaths from COVID-19 in Brazilian states for 110 days. The SOM analysis showed that the variables that presented a more significant relationship with the numbers of cases and deaths by COVID-19 were influenza vaccine applied, Intensive Care Unit (ICU), ventilators, physicians, nurses, and the Human Development Index (HDI). In general, Brazilian states with the highest rates of influenza vaccine applied, ICU beds, ventilators, physicians, and nurses, per 100,000 inhabitants, had the lowest number of cases and deaths from COVID-19, while the states with the lowest rates were most affected by the disease. According to the SOM analysis, other variables such as Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), tests, drugs, and Federal funds, did not have as significant effect as expected.
Can Desensitizing Toothpastes Also Have an Effect on Gingival Inflammation? A Double-Blind, Three-Treatment Crossover Clinical Trial
Authors: Monterubbianesi Riccardo , Sparabombe Scilla , Tosco Vincenzo , Profili Fabia , Mascitti Marco , Hosein Andrell , Putignano Angelo , Orsini Giovanna
Published: December 2020

Background: Many desensitizing toothpastes exist commercially; however, few clinical trials have investigated their anti-inflammatory effects. This study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effect and patient appreciation of two toothpastes containing desensitizing agents: (1) a zinc-carbonate-hydroxyapatite nanoparticle (CHA) and (2) a calcium sodium phosphosilicate bioactive glass (CSPS). Methods: CHA and CSPS were compared with an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial herbal based toothpaste (HB). The aims were accomplished by comparing the following outcomes: (1) the reduction in plaque and bleeding score (Full Mouth Plaque Score (FMPS) and Full Mouth Bleeding Score (FMBS), respectively); (2) the antibacterial activity (AbA) of the toothpaste by saliva samples; (3) the patient appreciation score (Visual Analogue Scale; VAS). Clinical parameters were assessed at baseline and 14 days post-treatment. Results: The final sample consisted of 25 subjects, aged between 20 and 58 years. Although no differences in FMPS were reported (p > 0.05), both desensitizing toothpastes showed an improvement in FMBS. CSPS and HB recorded more AbA compared to CHA (p < 0.05). Moreover, HB resulted in a higher VAS score than both desensitizing toothpastes (p < 0.05). Conclusion: In conclusion, only CSPS displayed a similar anti-inflammatory effect compared to HB. Despite the low VAS score, CSPS could be considered as a valid and effective toothpaste in subjects with both dentin hypersensitivity and inflamed gums, highlighting its utility in clinical practice.
Rural Residents’ Awareness of Environmental Protection and Waste Classification Behavior in Jiangsu, China: An Empirical Analysis
Authors: Liu Aijun , Osewe Maurice , Wang Huixin , Xiong Hang
Published: December 2020

Achieving waste classification and environmental protection awareness assists in enhancing the rural ecological environment, improves the quality of the rural residents’ life, and augments the rate of reusing resources within the rural setups. In order to study the factors influencing rural waste classification and environmental protection awareness, we conducted a project among rural residents of Jiangsu, China. We used both the logistic regression model and the ordinary least squares model to achieve the goals of this paper. Similarly, we found that the households’ level of education influenced the rural residents’ decision to classify waste and to protect the environment regarding whether a household consists of a village cadre; the availability of public waste collection facilities; the distance between households and the waste collection points; whether the waste is picked, assorted, and collected locally; and the cost of waste disposal. In light of all these factors, we recommended that the authorities should increase the rural residents’ waste classification and environmental protection awareness. Also, through the local government, the national government should strengthen and sustain rural waste disposal funds. Finally, there should be stringent laws and regulations outlining the role of the rural residents regarding waste classification and environmental protection awareness.
Maternal Education Level and Excessive Recreational Screen Time in Children: A Mediation Analysis
Authors: Pons Monserrat , Bennasar-Veny Miquel , Yañez Aina M.
Published: December 2020

There is increasing recognition of the adverse health consequences of excessive recreational screen time (RST) in children and adolescents. Early interventions that aim to reduce RST are crucial, but there are some controversies about which individual and parental variables affect RST in children. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship of parental education level with RST in children and early adolescents and to identify mediators of these relationships. This cross-sectional study examined a sample of children (2–14 year-old) who attended routine childcare visits in primary health care centers in Spain (n = 402; 53.7% males; mean age: 7 ± 4 year-old). A self-reported questionnaire was given to the parents to assess sociodemographic data, parental education, the home media environment, and RST in children. Separate analysis was performed for two age groups (2–6 year-old and 6–14 year-old). Path analysis, an application of structural equation modeling, was used to analyze the data. Fitty three percent of the children had excessive RST (≥2 h/day). The maternal education level, eating lunch/dinner in front of a TV, presence of a background TV, and the amount of parental TV viewing had significant associations with excessive RST in both age groups. For the younger group, the maternal education level had direct and indirect effects on RST (total effect: β = −0.29, p < 0.01). For the older group, maternal education level only had a significant indirect effect on RST, and this was mediated by the presence of a background TV and the time of parental TV viewing (total indirect effect: β = −0.11, p < 0.01). A higher maternal education level appears to be associated with certain environmental factors or habits that prevent excessive RST.
Social Media Activities, Emotion Regulation Strategies, and Their Interactions on People’s Mental Health in COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Yang Yang , Liu Keqiao , Li Siqi , Shu Man
Published: December 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically changed the general population’s life worldwide. People may spend more time on social media because of policies like “work at home”. Using a cross-sectional dataset collected through an online survey in February 2020, in China, we examined (1) the relationships between social media activities and people’s mental health status and (2) the moderation effect of emotional-regulation strategies. The sample included people aged ≥18 years from 32 provinces and regions in China (N = 3159). The inferential analyses included a set of multiple linear regressions with interactions. Our results showed that sharing timely, accurate, and positive COVID-19 information, reducing excessive discussions on COVID-19, and promoting caring online interactions rather than being judgmental, might positively associate with the general public’s psychological well-being. Additionally, the relationships between social media activities and psychological well-being varied at different emotion-regulation strategy levels. Adopting the cognitive reappraisal strategy might allay the adverse relationships between certain social media activities and mental health indicators. Our findings expanded the theory of how social media activities can be associated with a human being’s mental health and how it can interact with emotion-regulation strategies during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Outcomes of Culturally Tailored Dietary Intervention in the North African and Bangladeshi Diabetic Patients in Italy
Authors: Piombo Laura , Nicolella Gianluca , Barbarossa Giulia , Tubili Claudio , Pandolfo Mayme Mary , Castaldo Miriam , Costanzo Gianfranco , Mirisola Concetta , Cavani Andrea
Published: December 2020

Immigrants show higher adjusted diabetes prevalence than Italians, especially among South-East Asians followed by North and Sub-Saharan Africans. Diabetes progression is influenced by food behaviors, and diet control is a critical aspect in disease management. Food habits have many cultural and symbolic implications. Guidelines recommend that every patient should receive appropriate self-management education according to cultural and socioeconomic characteristics. This study aims to test whether a customized diet and transcultural mediator’s support can improve immigrants’ food habits. A pre-post quali-quantitative study was conducted among 20–79-year-old Bangladeshi and North African diabetic immigrants. The INMP transcultural mediator, an expert in the social and health care field, actively participates in clinical activity by decoding linguistic and cultural needs expressed by the foreigner patient. Five culturally tailored dietary profiles were designed according to international diabetes guidelines and adjusted to traditional food habits. Data were collected with two different semi-structured questionnaires. Changes in food consumption were assessed through McNemar’s test, while paired Wilcoxon Signed-Rank test was used to analyze pre and post intervention. Fifty-five patients were enrolled. At follow-up, cereals, meat, and potatoes intake significantly improved, and the number of adequate dietary habits for each patient increased significantly. Transcultural mediator support was 90% positively evaluated. Adherence to dietary control is favorably influenced by a transcultural intervention, which is based on clinical and socio-cultural criteria, in compliance with patient’s lifestyles.
Mercury (Hg) Contaminated Sites in Kazakhstan: Review of Current Cases and Site Remediation Responses
Authors: Guney Mert , Akimzhanova Zhanel , Kumisbek Aiganym , Beisova Kamila , Kismelyeva Symbat , Satayeva Aliya , Inglezakis Vassilis , Karaca Ferhat
Published: December 2020

Mercury (Hg) emissions from anthropogenic sources pose a global problem. In Central Asia, Kazakhstan’s central and northern regions are among the most severely Hg-contaminated territories. This is due to two former acetaldehyde (in Temirtau) and chlor-alkali (in Pavlodar) plants, discharges from which during the second half of the 20th century were estimated over 2000 tons of elemental Hg. However, the exact quantities of Hg released through atmospheric emissions to the environment, controlled discharges to the nearby aquatic systems, leakages in the cell plant, and contaminated sludge are still unknown. The present review is the initiation of a comprehensive field investigation study on the current state of these contaminated sites. It aims to provide a critical review of published literature on Hg in soils, sediments, water, and biota of the impacted ecosystems (Nura and Irtysh rivers, and Lake Balkyldak and their surrounding areas). It furthermore compares these contamination episodes with selected similar international cases as well as reviews and recommends demercuration efforts. The findings indicate that the contamination around the acetaldehyde plant site was significant and mainly localized with the majority of Hg deposited in topsoils and riverbanks within 25 km from the discharge point. In the chlor-alkali plant site, Lake Balkyldak in North Kazakhstan is the most seriously contaminated receptor. The local population of both regions might still be exposed to Hg due to fish consumption illegally caught from local rivers and reservoirs. Since the present field data is limited mainly to investigations conducted before 2010 and given the persisting contamination and nature of Hg, a recent up-to-date environmental assessment for both sites is highly needed, particularly around formerly detected hotspots. Due to incomplete site remediation efforts, recommendations given by several researchers for the territories of the former chlor-alkali and acetaldehyde plant site include ex-situ soil washing, soil pulping with gravitational separation, ultrasound and transgenic algae for sediments, and electrokinetic recovery for the former and removal and/or confinement of contaminated silt deposits and soils for the latter. However, their efficiency first needs to be validated. Findings and lessons from these sites will be useful not only on the local scale but also are valuable resources for the assessment and management of similar contaminated sites around the globe.
Use of Digital Technology among Adolescents Attending Schools in Bissau, Guinea-Bissau
Authors: Gunnlaugsson Geir , Whitehead Thomas Andrew , Baboudóttir Fatou N’dure , Baldé Aladje , Jandi Zeca , Boiro Hamadou , Einarsdóttir Jónína
Published: December 2020

Digital technology plays an important role in achieving many of the Sustainable Development Goals. However, access is uneven, with 80% of those in high-income countries being online compared to 20% of those in the 47 least developed countries. This study aimed to describe and analyse adolescents’ access to and usage of digital technology in Guinea-Bissau and its implications. In June 2017, a survey with a locally adapted Planet Youth questionnaire was implemented in the capital, Bissau, whereby classes in 16 secondary schools were surveyed on a variety of issues. In total, 2039 randomly selected students participated; the survey included ten questions specifically on the access to and use of digital technology. Half of the respondents had access to desktop/laptops, and one-third used mobile internet daily; about two-thirds had an experience of social media. Explanatory variables included educational institution, parental education, economic situation, and gender. Furthermore, students’ experience of social media was significantly linked to bullying, anxiety, depression, smoking and alcohol consumption. Many adolescents in Bissau have no experience of using digital technology, including for schoolwork. Access improvements are necessary so that young Bissau-Guineans are not to be left behind in developing their capabilities and can benefit from proficiency in the use of digital technologies. At the same time, potential harmful usage of the media requires the implementation of preventive measures.
Dietary Practices and Barriers to Adherence to Healthy Eating among King Faisal University Students
Authors: Abdelhafez Amal Ismael , Akhter Fahima , Alsultan Abdulrahman Abdulhadi , Jalal Sahbanathul Missiriya , Ali Ayub
Published: December 2020

Proper dietary practices should be developed during the student years that will continue into the future. This study aimed to identify the eating habits and dietary practices among King Faisal University (KFU) students, explore the barriers to adherence to healthy eating, associate the understanding of healthy diets with students’ characteristics, and determine the association between body mass index (BMI) and awareness of the concept of healthy diets, academic discipline, and enrollment in a nutrition course. In this cross-sectional study, students were selected randomly and a questionnaire was distributed using an electronic platform through KFU email. Out of 564 students, nearly half (45.7%) reported eating snacks as their main food, and some (38.3%) reported eating with their family twice daily. The students rarely reported eating with friends (73%) or eating dates (48.8%). Furthermore, many reported that they were not consuming a balanced diet (42.6%). Some students (46.3%) reported taking breakfast daily, and 49.1% reported eating meals regularly. There was low consumption of vegetables (29.3%) and fruits (26.2%) among the students. The barriers to adherence to healthy eating were the availability of fast food (73.2%), high cost of healthy food (72.7%), limited time (59%), and laziness (57.1%). Statistically significant data indicated that the students with a normal BMI were more aware of the concept of healthy diets, studied medical and applied sciences, and were enrolled in KFU nutrition courses.
Evaluation of Physical Properties of a Metakaolin-Based Alkali-Activated Binder Containing Waste Foam Glass
Authors: Mácová Petra , Sotiriadis Konstantinos , Slížková Zuzana , Šašek Petr , Řehoř Michal , Závada Jaroslav
Published: December 2020

Foam glass production process redounds to large quantities of waste that, if not recycled, are stockpiled in the environment. In this work, increasing amounts of waste foam glass were used to produce metakaolin-based alkali-activated composites. Phase composition and morphology were investigated by means of X-ray powder diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Subsequently, the physical properties of the materials (density, porosity, thermal conductivity and mechanical strength) were determined. The analysis showed that waste foam glass functioned as an aggregate, introducing irregular voids in the matrix. The obtained composites were largely porous (>45%), with a thermal conductivity coefficient similar to that of timber (<0.2 W/m∙K). Optimum compressive strength was achieved for 10% incorporation of the waste by weight in the binder. The resulting mechanical properties suggest the suitability of the produced materials for use in thermal insulating applications where high load-bearing capacities are not required. Mechanical or chemical treatment of the waste is recommended for further exploitation of its potential in participating in the alkali activation process.
Development and Characterization of “Green Open-Cell Polyurethane Foams” with Reduced Flammability
Authors: Kurańska Maria , Beneš Hynek , Sałasińska Kamila , Prociak Aleksander , Malewska Elżbieta , Polaczek Krzysztof
Published: December 2020

This work presents the cell structure and selected properties of polyurethane (PUR) foams, based on two types of hydroxylated used cooking oil and additionally modified with three different flame retardants. Bio-polyols from municipal waste oil with different chemical structures were obtained by transesterification with triethanolamine (UCO_TEA) and diethylene glycol (UCO_DEG). Next, these bio-polyols were used to prepare open-cell polyurethane foams of very low apparent densities for thermal insulation applications. In order to obtain foams with reduced flammability, the PUR systems were modified with different amounts (10–30 parts per hundred polyol by weight—php) of flame retardants: TCPP (tris(1-chloro-2-propyl)phosphate), TEP (triethyl phosphate), and DMPP (dimethyl propylphosphonate). The flame retardants caused a decrease of the PUR formulations reactivity. The apparent densities of all the foams were comparable in the range 12–15 kg/m3. The lowest coefficients of thermal conductivity were measured for the open-cell PUR foams modified with DMPP. The lowest values of heat release rate were found for the foams based on the UCO_TEA and UCO_DEG bio-polyols that were modified with 30 php of DMPP.
The Microcellular Structure of Injection Molded Thick-Walled Parts as Observed by In-Line Monitoring
Authors: Sykutera Dariusz , Czyżewski Piotr , Szewczykowski Piotr
Published: December 2020

The aim of the study was to detect the influence of nitrogen pressure on the rheological properties and structure of PA66 GF30 thick-walled parts, produced by means of microcellular injection molding (MIM), using the MuCell® technology. The process was monitored in-line with pressure and temperature sensors assembled in the original injection mold. The measured data was subsequently used to evaluate rheological properties inside an 8.4 mm depth mold cavity. The analysis of the microcellular structure was related to the monitored in-line pressure and temperature changes during the injection process cycle. A four-times reduction of the maximum filling pressure in the mold cavity for MIM was found. At the same time, the holding pressure was taken over by expanding cells. The gradient effect of the cells distribution and the fiber arrangement in the flow direction were observed. A slight influence of nitrogen pressure on the cells size was found. Cells with a diameter lower than 20 µm dominate in the analyzed cases. An effect of reduction of the average cells size in the function of distance to the gate was observed. The creation of structure gradient and changes of cells dimensions were evaluated by SEM images and confirmed with the micro CT analysis.
Numerical Simulation and Experimental Investigation of the Preparation of Aluminium Alloy 2A50 Semi-Solid Billet by Electromagnetic Stirring
Authors: Wang Yongfei , Zhao Shengdun , Guo Yi
Published: December 2020

Electromagnetic stirring (EMS) has become one of the most important branches of the electromagnetic processing of materials. However, a deep understanding of the influence of the EMS on the thermo-fluid flow of the aluminium alloy melt, and consequently the refinement of the microstructure is still not available. This paper investigated the influence of the operating parameters of EMS on the magnetohydrodynamics, temperature field, flow field, and the vortex-shaped structure of the melt as well as the microstructure of the aluminium alloy 2A50 billet by numerical simulation and experiments. The operating parameters were categorised into three groups representing high, medium, and low levels of Lorentz forces generated by EMS. The numerical simulation matched well with the experimental result. It was found that a high level of EMS can improve the uniformity of the temperature and flow fields. The maximum speed was observed at the radius of around 25 mm under all EMS levels. Both the depth and diameter of the vortex-shaped structure generated increased with the enhancement in the EMS level. The average grain size of the edge sample of the billet was reduced by 48.3% while the average shape factor was increased by 51.0% under the medium-level EMS.
Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP): Current Limitations in Patient Management
Authors: Terrell Deirdra R. , Neunert Cindy E. , Cooper Nichola , Heitink-Pollé Katja M. , Kruse Caroline , Imbach Paul , Kühne Thomas , Ghanima Waleed
Published: December 2020

Primary immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an acquired autoimmune disorder characterized by isolated thrombocytopenia caused by increased platelet destruction and impaired platelet production. First-line therapies include corticosteroids, intravenous immunoglobulin, and anti-D immunoglobulin. For patients who are refractory to these therapies, those who become corticosteroid dependent, or relapse following treatment with corticosteroid, options include splenectomy, rituximab, and thrombopoietin-receptor agonists, alongside a variety of additional immunosuppressive and experimental therapies. Despite recent advances in the management of ITP, many areas need further research. Although it is recognized that an assessment of patient-reported outcomes in ITP is valuable to understand and guide treatment, these measures are not routinely measured in the clinical setting. Consequently, although corticosteroids are first-line therapies for both children and adults, there are no data to suggest that corticosteroids improve health-related quality of life or other patient-related outcomes in either children or adults. In fact, long courses of corticosteroids, in either children or adults, may have a negative impact on a patient’s health-related quality of life, secondary to the impact on sleep disturbance, weight gain, and mental health. In adults, additional therapies may be needed to treat overt hemorrhage, but unfortunately the results are transient for the majority of patients. Therefore, there is a need to recognize the limitations of current existing therapies and evaluate new approaches, such as individualized treatment based on the probability of response and the size of effect on the patient’s most bothersome symptoms and risk of adverse effects or complications. Finally, a validated screening tool that identifies clinically significant patient-reported outcomes in routine clinical practice would help both patients and physicians to effectively follow a patient’s health beyond simply treating the laboratory findings and physical symptoms of ITP. The goal of this narrative review is to discuss management of newly diagnosed and refractory patients with ITP, with a focus on the limitations of current therapies from the patient’s perspective.
A Lipid Bilayer Formed on a Hydrogel Bead for Single Ion Channel Recordings
Authors: Hirano Minako , Yamamoto Daiki , Asakura Mami , Hayakawa Tohru , Mise Shintaro , Matsumoto Akinobu , Ide Toru
Published: December 2020

Ion channel proteins play important roles in various cell functions, making them attractive drug targets. Artificial lipid bilayer recording is a technique used to measure the ion transport activities of channel proteins with high sensitivity and accuracy. However, the measurement efficiency is low. In order to improve the efficiency, we developed a method that allows us to form bilayers on a hydrogel bead and record channel currents promptly. We tested our system by measuring the activities of various types of channels, including gramicidin, alamethicin, α-hemolysin, a voltage-dependent anion channel 1 (VDAC1), a voltage- and calcium-activated large conductance potassium channel (BK channel), and a potassium channel from Streptomyces lividans (KcsA channel). We confirmed the ability for enhanced measurement efficiency and measurement system miniaturizion.
Selective Oxidation of Ethane to Acetic Acid Catalyzed by a C-Scorpionate Iron(II) Complex: A Homogeneous vs. Heterogeneous Comparison
Authors: Matias Inês A. S. , Ribeiro Ana P. C. , Martins Luísa M. D. R. S.
Published: December 2020

The direct, one-pot oxidation of ethane to acetic acid was, for the first time, performed using a C-scorpionate complex anchored onto a magnetic core-shell support, the Fe3O4/TiO2/[FeCl2{κ3-HC(pz)3}] composite. This catalytic system, where the magnetic catalyst is easily recovered and reused, is highly selective to the acetic acid synthesis. The performed green metrics calculations highlight the “greeness” of the new ethane oxidation procedure.
The GABAA-Benzodiazepine Receptor Antagonist Flumazenil Abolishes the Anxiolytic Effects of the Active Constituents of Crocus sativus L. Crocins in Rats
Authors: Pitsikas Nikolaos , Tarantilis Petros A.
Published: December 2020

Anxiety is a chronic severe psychiatric disorder. Crocins are among the various bioactive components of the plant Crocus sativus L. (Iridaceae) and their implication in anxiety is well-documented. However, which is the mechanism of action underlying the anti-anxiety effects of crocins remains unknown. In this context, it has been suggested that these beneficial effects might be ascribed to the agonistic properties of these bioactive ingredients of saffron on the GABA type A receptor. The current experimentation was undertaken to clarify this issue in the rat. For this research project, the light/dark and the open field tests were used. A single injection of crocins (50 mg/kg, i.p., 60 min before testing) induces an anti-anxiety-like effect revealed either in the light-dark or open field tests. Acute administration of the GABAA-benzodiazepine receptor antagonist flumazenil (10 mg/kg, i.p., 30 min before testing) abolished the above mentioned anxiolytic effects of crocins. The current findings suggest a functional interaction between crocins and the GABAA receptor allosteric modulator flumazenil on anxiety.
Model-Based Optimization of a Fed-Batch Bioreactor for mAb Production Using a Hybridoma Cell Culture
Authors: Maria Gheorghe
Published: December 2020

Production of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) is a well-known method used to synthesize a large number of identical antibodies, which are molecules of huge importance in medicine. Due to such reasons, intense efforts have been invested to maximize the mAbs production in bioreactors with hybridoma cell cultures. However, the optimal control of such sensitive bioreactors is an engineering problem difficult to solve due to the large number of state-variables with highly nonlinear dynamics, which often translates into a non-convex optimization problem that involves a significant number of decision (control) variables. Based on an adequate kinetic model adopted from the literature, this paper focuses on developing an in-silico (model-based, offline) numerical analysis of a fed-batch bioreactor (FBR) with an immobilized hybridoma culture to determine its optimal feeding policy by considering a small number of control variables, thus ensuring maximization of mAbs production. The obtained time stepwise optimal feeding policies of FBR were proven to obtain better performances than those of simple batch operation (BR) for all the verified alternatives in terms of raw material consumption and mAbs productivity. Several elements of novelty (i–iv) are pointed out in the “conclusions” section (e.g., considering the continuously added biomass as a control variable during FBR).
Nootkatone, a Dietary Fragrant Bioactive Compound, Attenuates Dyslipidemia and Intramyocardial Lipid Accumulation and Favorably Alters Lipid Metabolism in a Rat Model of Myocardial Injury: An In Vivo and In Vitro Study
Authors: Meeran M.F. Nagoor , Azimullah Sheikh , Al Ahbabi M Marzouq , Jha Niraj Kumar , Lakshmanan Vinoth-Kumar , Goyal Sameer N. , Ojha Shreesh
Published: December 2020

In the present study, we assessed whether nootkatone (NKT), a sesquiterpene in edible plants, can provide protection against dyslipidemia, intramyocardial lipid accumulation, and altered lipid metabolism in a rat model of myocardial infarction (MI) induced by subcutaneous injections of isoproterenol (ISO, 85 mg/kg) on days 9 and 10. The rats were pre- and co-treated with NKT (10 mg/kg, p.o.) administered daily for 11 days. A significant reduction in the activities of myocardial creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase, as well as non-enzymatic antioxidants, and alterations in lipids and lipoproteins, along with a rise in plasma lipid peroxidation and intramyocardial lipid accumulation, were observed in ISO-treated rats. ISO administration induced alterations in the activities of enzymes/expressions that played a significant role in altering lipid metabolism. However, NKT treatment favorably modulated all biochemical and molecular parameters altered by ISO and showed protective effects against oxidative stress, dyslipidemia, and altered lipid metabolism, attributed to its free-radical-scavenging and antihyperlipidemic activities in rats with ISO-induced MI. Additionally, NKT decreased the accumulation of lipids in the myocardium as evidenced from Oil red O staining. Furthermore, the in vitro observations demonstrate the potent antioxidant property of NKT. The present study findings are suggestive of the protective effects of NKT on dyslipidemia and the underlying mechanisms. Based on our findings, it can be suggested that NKT or plants rich in NKT can be promising for use as a phytopharmaceutical or nutraceutical in protecting the heart and correcting lipid abnormalities and dyslipidemia, which are risk factors for ischemic heart diseases.
Sedum takesimense Protects PC12 Cells against Corticosterone-Induced Neurotoxicity by Inhibiting Neural Apoptosis
Authors: Yun Hea-Yeon , Jeong Yoonhwa
Published: December 2020

Neuronal cell death induced by chronic stress in the central nervous system is a cause of neurological dysfunction. We investigated the neuroprotective potential of a water extract of S. takesimense (WEST) against corticosterone-induced apoptosis in PC12 cells and the possible underlying mechanisms. Cells were pretreated with 50 µg/mL of WEST to evaluate its neuroprotective effect based on endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress inhibition and mitochondrial function improvement. Pretreatment with WEST prevented corticosterone-induced injury in PC12 cells, resulting in increased cell survival, decreased lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release, and potent apoptosis inhibition by a reduction in apoptotic nuclei demonstrated by Hoechst 33342 and propidium iodide (PI) double staining, and TUNEL staining. WEST strongly attenuated calcium (Ca2+) elevation, inducing the closure of mitochondrial permeability transition pores (mPTPs), which were opened by corticosterone. It also stabilized mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) loss and inhibited the corticosterone-induced decrease in adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels. Furthermore, the increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production induced by corticosterone was prevented in PC12 cells treated with WEST. WEST also downregulated the expression of glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP78), growth arrest- and DNA damage-inducible gene 153 (GADD153), the pro-apoptotic protein Bcl-2-associated X (Bax), cytochrome c, cysteine-aspartic protease (caspase)-9, and caspase-3, and upregulated the expression of the anti-apoptotic protein B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2). Thus, WEST exerts a neuroprotective effect by inhibiting the apoptosis pathway in ER stress and the mitochondrial dysfunction induced by corticosterone. These results demonstrate that WEST reduces neuronal damage from the neurotoxicity caused by chronic stress.
Study on Seed Emergence and Seedling Growth of Artemisia Desertorum with Superabsorbent Polymers
Authors: Zhang Wenxu , Liu Qian , Liu Shengfang , Chen Jing , Guo Lulu , Wang Peng , Lei Ziqiang
Published: December 2020

In this study, the emergence rate, emergence potential, root length, stem length, water consumption, and biomass around a root system were used as evaluation indexes, and we used the laboratory-prepared super absorbent resin watermelon rind (WMR)-p (AA–co–DAAM) (superabsorbent polymer 1—SAP1), WMR-p (AA–co–DAAM)/palygorskite (PGS) (SAP2) in a laboratory and commercially available water-retaining agents (SAPRX and SAPHDB) to assist the emergence of Artemisiadesertorum seeds and seedling growth; then, their water absorption and thermal stability were discussed. The results showed that the thermal stability of an SAP prepared in the laboratory and the water consumption during seed emergence, root length, and stem length after emergence were better than those of an SAP purchased on the market, and this information could help to promote the emergence and seedling growth of Artemisiadesertorum. While enhancing the drought resistance of plants, using a laboratory-produced SAP can effectively reduce the number of artificial irrigations.
Investigation of the Influence of Viscoelastic Behaviour on the Lifetime of Short Fibre Reinforced Polymers
Authors: Stadler Gabriel , Primetzhofer Andreas , Jerabek Michael , Pinter Gerald , Grün Florian
Published: December 2020

Short fibre reinforced polymers are getting more important for structural applications. Becasue of lightweight actions, components are designed for a specific application and lifetime. The bearable numbers of cycles can be estimated using material data and models for the consideration of influence factors. Further static loadings affect material behaviour, which influences the component lifetime. Commonly used models are not able to capture these effects. Therefore, material tests, with different load sequences, on 40% short glass fibre reinforced polypropylene have been performed. These sequences are combinations of cyclic and static loads at different, defined levels. Our research shows a lifetime elongation or reduction of a polymer, depending on the amount of static load time and quantity. For a certain stress level, the time to failure can be elongated or shortened more than a decade by another stress level, as compared to pure cyclic load. Additionally, the stiffness development of the composite is investigated in order to capture the damage course. Accordingly, these effects needed to be considered in lifetime prediction.
Experimental and Numerical Investigation of the Extrusion and Deposition Process of a Poly(lactic Acid) Strand with Fused Deposition Modeling
Authors: Gosset Anne , Barreiro-Villaverde David , Becerra Permuy Juan Carlos , Lema Marcos , Ares-Pernas Ana , Abad López María José
Published: December 2020

In the last decade, Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) has gained popularity for allowing the fabrication of pieces with complex shapes. The final quality of the pieces is strongly linked to the shape, size and surface finish of the strands deposited successively, which themselves depend on the printing parameters and extruded material properties. In this work, we present an experimental characterization of an extruded and deposited single strand of Poly-Lactic Acid (PLA), by means of high-speed visualization of the bead region between the substrate and the nozzle, where the molten polymer is still in liquid phase. A Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model proposed in literature, and, based on isothermal and viscous flow assumptions, is validated with this data in terms of strand height and meniscus shape. The characteristics of the printed layer are also confronted to the measurements of the solidified strands by microscopy, with a good agreement. The focus on high printing speeds allows extending the conclusions of previous studies. Regarding the surface finish, the roughness patterns detected on the printed strands are correlated to the velocity fluctuations of the printing head. The CFD model does not capture those thickness variations, however, due to not accounting for solidification.
Possibility of Zhuhai-1 Hyperspectral Imagery for Monitoring Salinized Soil Moisture Content Using Fractional Order Differentially Optimized Spectral Indices
Authors: Kahaer Yasenjiang , Tashpolat Nigara , Shi Qingdong , Liu Suhong
Published: December 2020

The possibility of quantitative inversion of salinized soil moisture content (SMC) from Zhuhai-1 hyperspectral imagery and the application effect of fractional order differentially optimized spectral indices were discussed, which provided new research ideas for improving the accuracy of hyperspectral remote sensing inversion. The hyperspectral data from indoor and Zhuhai-1 remote sensing imagery were resampled to the same spectral scale. The soil hyperspectral data were processed by fractional order differential preprocessing method and optimized spectral indices method, and the Pearson correlation coefficient (PCC/r) analysis was made with SMC data. The sensitive optimized spectral indices were used to establish the ground hyperspectral estimation model, and a variety of modeling methods were used to select the best SMC inversion model. The results were as follows: the maximum one-dimensional r between SMC and the 466–938 nm band was −0.635, the maximum one-dimensional r with the 0.5-order absorbance spectrum was 0.665, and the maximum two-dimensional r with the difference index (DI) calculated by the 0.5-order absorbance spectrum was ±0.72. The maximum three-dimensional r with the triangle vegetation index (TVI) calculated from the 0.5-order absorbance spectrum reached 0.755, which exceeded the one-dimensional r extreme value of 400–2400 nm. The TreeNet gradient boosting machine (TGBM) regression model had the highest modeling accuracy, with a calibration coefficient of determination (R2C) = 0.887, calibration root mean square error (RMSEC) = 2.488%, standard deviation (SD) = 6.733%, and r = 0.942. However, the partial least squares regression (PLSR) model had the strongest predictive ability, with validation coefficient of determination (R2V) = 0.787, validation root mean square error (RMSEV) = 3.247%, and relative prediction deviation (RPD) = 2.071. The variable importance in projection (VIP) method could not only improve model efficiency but also increased model accuracy. R2C of the optimal PLSR model was 0.733, RMSEC was 3.028%, R2V was 0.805, RMSEV was 3.100%, RPD was 1.976, and Akaike information criterion (AIC) was 151.050. The three-band optimized spectral indices with fractional differential pretreatment could to a certain extent break through the limitation of visible near-infrared spectrum in SMC estimation due to the lack of shortwave infrared spectra, which made it possible to quantitatively retrieve saline SMC on the basis of Zhuhai-1 hyperspectral imagery.
Using an ETWatch (RS)-UZF-MODFLOW Coupled Model to Optimize Joint Use of Transferred Water and Local Water Sources in a Saline Water Area of the North China Plain
Authors: Hou Xianglong , Wang Shiqin , Jin Xiaorui , Li Mingliang , Lv Mengyu , Feng Wenzhao
Published: December 2020

In the saline water area of our research, deep groundwater was over-pumped for agricultural irrigation which resulted in a decline of the deep groundwater level and an increase in the shallow groundwater table. Soil salination was also aggravated due to the strong evapotranspiration (ET) in the shallow groundwater areas, where ET removes water vapor from the unsaturated zone (ETu), and the groundwater (ETg). Joint utilities of multiple water sources of transferred water and local shallow and deep groundwater are essential for reasonable management of irrigation water. However, it is still difficult to distinguish ETu and ETg in coupled management of unsaturated zone and groundwater, which account for the water balance in utilities of multiple water sources in a regional scale. In this paper, we used an RS-based ETWatch model as a source of evapotranspiration data coupled with UZF-MODFLOW, an integrated hydrological model of the unsaturated–saturated zone, to estimate the ETg and ETu on a regional scale. It was shown that the coupled model (ETWatch-UZF-MODFLOW) avoids the influence of ETu on the groundwater balance calculation and improves the accuracy of the groundwater model. The model was used in the simulation and prediction of groundwater level. The eastern North China Plain (NCP) was selected as the study area where shallow groundwater was saline water and deep groundwater cone existed. We compared four different scenarios of irrigation methods, including current irrigation scenario, use of saline water, limited deep groundwater pumping, use of multiple water sources of transferred water and local groundwater. Results indicate that the total ETg for the four scenarios in the study area from 2013 to 2030 is 119 × 108 m3, 81.9 × 108 m3, 85.0 × 108 m3, and 92.3 × 108 m3, respectively, and the proportion of ETg to total ET was 6.85%, 4.79%, 4.97%, 5.37%. However, in regions where the groundwater depth is less than 3 m, ETg accounts for 12% of the total ET, indicating that groundwater was one of the main sources of evapotranspiration in shallow groundwater depth area.
La femme objet de la Révolution
Authors: Sledziewski Élisabeth
Published: December 2020

Révisant un certain nombre de stéréotypes reçus sur le statut fait à la femme au cours de la Révolution, cette contribution associant sources officielles, discours des porte-parole, éléments de la pratique sociale, fait apparaître l'apport indiscutable de la période pour l'affirmation des droits civils de la femme qui se trouve cependant démunie de droits civiques. Compromis, ou contradiction, par où s’exprime dans son caractère progressiste comme dans ses limites l’apport de la Révolution.
La correspondance dans les journaux de Marat
Authors: Coquard O.
Published: December 2020

De l'Ami du Peuple au Journal et au Publiciste de République française la correspondance tient dans les journaux de Marat une place essentielle. L’auteur en analyse le flux, les provenances, la sociologie des auteurs autant que possible. Il s’interroge sur son degré d'authenticité — Marat la retouchant et y mettant souvent la main. Mais c'est sur le bilan d’un dialogue authentique que l'on conclut.

Une note complémentaire présente une analyse inédite des manuscrits et imprimés de Marat au fonds La Bedoyère de la Bibliothèque Nationale.
Condorcet et sa terre natale
Authors: Vinot Bernard
Published: December 2020

Beaucoup plus qu'à sa famille paternelle, les racines de Condorcet renvoient à sa famille maternelle, les Gaudry, robins originaires de Ribémont dans l’Aisne. Sa mère, veuve disposait des revenus d'une terre de quelque 350 hectares. Condorcet restera constamment en contact avec le lieu de ses origines. Après la mort de sa mère ses revenus sont pour bonne part ceux d'un rentier du sol, attentif au problème paysan. Dans le courant de 1791 il participe (par rachat aux acquéreurs primitifs) amplement à l'acquisition de biens nationaux : 9 lots en terres et corps de fermes représentant 883 hectares, ce qui le classe parmi les très gros acquéreurs. L’auteur s'interroge sur les raisons de cette stratégie, à première vue inattendue.
«Im Namen der Frankenrepublik» aux origines d’une culture démocratique en Allemagne
Authors: Reichardt Rolf
Published: December 2020

R. R. exhume des documents qui témoignent d’une vie politique intense pendant la période qui débouche sur la proclamation de la République de Mayence. Il étudie en particulier le jacobinisme rural : clubs villageois, activité d’instituteurs et de pasteurs, libelles, brochures populaires, catéchismes révolutionnaires. Ces médias véhiculèrent un républicanisme se référant au modèle français : la République est moins un régime qu’une valeur liée aux notions de peuple Souverain, de Loi, de Responsabilité, de Vertu, d’Égalité civile. La participation populaire à ce mouvement républicain ne fut pas négligeable. Le vote pour la création des municipalités sur le modèle français constitua un succès pour les républicains. A la Convention nationale réunie en mars 1793, plus de la moitié des députés furent des paysans.
Effect of anthocyanin-rich sour cherry extract on the level of IL-8 in LPS-induced endothelial cell
Authors: Biró Attila , Markovics Arnold , Stündl László , Remenyik Judit
Published: December 2020

The anthocyanin content of the Hungarian sour cherry is remarkable. Nutraceutical and pharmaceutical effects of the anthocyanins and their role in disease prevention have been studied extensively. Endothelial cells are involved in the pathogenesis of several inflammatory diseases. The objective of this work was to investigate pure sour cherry extract on human umbilical cord vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) as an inflammatory model.  HUVECs were treated with 100 ng/mL lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and 50 mg/mL sour cherry extract or M199 medium as control. The optimal concentration range of the sour cherry extract was investigated and selected based on MTT assay measuring the conversion of the tetrazolium salt to formazan by mitochondrial dehydrogenases. The level of interleukine-8 (IL-8), a pro-inflammatory cytokine, was measured in Luminex MagPlex assay. LPS treatment significantly increased the secretion of IL-8. The pure sour cherry extract was able to attenuate this increment indicating the potent anti-inflammatory effect of pure sour cherry extract. Our results emphasize that pure sour cherry extract could reduce the LPS-induced inflammatory response thereby may improve endothelial dysfunction.
Identifikasi Kematangan Buah Kelapa Sawit Berdasarkan Warna RGB Dan HSV Menggunakan Metode K-Means Clustering
Authors: Himmah Elok Faiqotul , Widyaningsih Maura , Maysaroh Maysaroh
Published: December 2020

Kelapa sawit merupakan salah satu tumbuhan tropis penghasil minyak nabati yang banyak dibudidayakan. Ketepatan dalam menentukan tingkat kematangan buah kelapa sawit menentukan kualitas hasil panen tumbuhan ini. Penelitian ini memanfaatkan pengolahan citra digital untuk mengidentifikasi kematangan buah kelapa sawit berdasarkan warna RGB (Red, Green, Blue) dan HSV (Hue, Saturation, Value). Citra berupa foto buah kelapa sawit yang diambil dengan kamera digital diolah dengan perangkat lunak MATLAB kemudian dianalisis menggunakan metode klasifikasi K-Means Clustering untuk mendapatkan perbandingan hasil ekstraksi ciri RGB dan HSV. Hasil penelitian mampu membedakan tingkat kematangan buah kelapa sawit yaitu mentah, cukup matang, dan matang dengan tingkat keakuratan total pada data uji dan data latih sebesar 64.58%.