bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The development of mesenchymal stem cell therapy in the present, and the perspective of cell-free therapy in the future
Authors: Watanabe Yusuke , Tsuchiya Atsunori , Terai Shuji
Published: December 2020

Cirrhosis is a chronic condition that can lead to liver failure. Currently, the viable option for decreasing mortality is liver transplantation. However, transplant surgery is highly invasive. Therefore, cell-based therapy has been developed as an alternative. Based on promising findings from preclinical research, some new trials have been registered. One of them was autologous bone marrow cell infusion therapy and found that ameliorating liver fibrosis activated liver regeneration. Now, majority of trials focus on low-immunogenicity mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) appropriate for allogeneic administration. However, despite about 20 years of research, only a limited number of cell-based therapies have entered routine practice. Furthermore, potential shortcomings of cell-based therapy include a limit on the number of cells, which may be administered, as well as their failure to infiltrate target organs. On the other hand, these research show that MSCs act as “conducting cells” and regulate host cells including macrophages via extracellular vesicles (EVs) or exosome signals, leading to ameliorate liver fibrosis and promote regeneration. Therefore, the concept of cell-free therapy, which makes use of cell-derived EVs or exosomes, is attracting attention. Cell-free therapies may be safely administered in large doses and are able to infiltrate target organs. However, development of cell-free therapy exhibits its own set of challenges and such therapy may not be completely curative in the context of liver disease. This review describes the history of cell-based therapy research and recent advances in cell-free therapy, as well as discussing the need for more effective therapies.
β-blockers in advanced cirrhosis: More friend than enemy
Authors: Yoon Ki Tae , Liu Hongqun , Lee Samuel S.
Published: December 2020

Nonselective beta-adrenergic blocker (NSBB) therapy for the prevention of initial and recurrent gastrointestinal bleeding in cirrhotic patients with gastroesophageal varices has been used for the past four decades. NSBB therapy is considered the cornerstone of treatment for varices, and has become the standard of care. However, a 2010 study from the group that pioneered β-blocker therapy suggested a detrimental effect of NSBBs in decompensated cirrhosis, especially in patients with refractory ascites. Since then, numerous additional studies have incompletely resolved whether NSBBs are deleterious, although more recent evidence weighs against a harmful effect. The possibility of a “therapeutic window” has also been raised. We aimed to review the literature to analyze the pros and cons of using NSBBs in patients with cirrhosis, not only with respect to bleeding or mortality but also to other potential benefits and risks. β-blockers are highly effective in preventing first bleeding and recurrent bleeding. Furthermore, NSBBs improve congestion/ischemia of the gut mucosa, decrease intestinal permeability, and therefore indirectly alleviate systemic inflammation. β-blockers shorten the electrocardiographic prolonged QTc interval and may also decrease the incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma. On the other hand, the possibility of deleterious effects in cirrhosis has not been completely eliminated. NSBBs may be associated with an increased risk of portal vein thrombosis, although this could be correlational artifact. Overall, we conclude that β-blockers in cirrhosis are much more of a friend than enemy.
The Interpretation of the Concept of “Time” in Kyrgyz Language View of the World: Associative Experiment
Authors: Naimanova Ch. , Baizhigitova A.
Published: December 2020

The topicality of the research is based on the growing interest in the study of the concept of “time” in Kyrgyz cognitive linguistics. The concept of time reflects the cultural, spiritual, and moral values of any culture including Kyrgyz. The novelty of the research is that the concept of time has been analyzed in the framework of the Kyrgyz Language. In the framework of this paper, the associative experiment of how Kyrgyz people perceive the concept of time held. The aim of the paper is to study the concept of time in the Kyrgyz linguistic view of the world based on the associative experiment. To reach the aim of the paper the following research methods were used: analysis, synthesis, observation, statistical analysis, interpretation, and an associative experiment. In this paper we have shared the results of the survey hold in Kyrgyzstan, 85 people participated as native speakers of the Kyrgyz language. The age and gender — 13–64 years; the number of women who participated in the Kyrgyz survey is 59 and 26 of them are men. Kyrgyz people believe that time has both positive and negative qualities. Kyrgyz people associate time with life, irreversibility, hour, age, moments, death, possibilities, happiness, success wrinkles, etc.
Influence of Different Gases on the Design Point of an Industrial Axial Compressor and Deduced Aerodynamical Rematching Methodology
Authors: Hoffmann Henrik , Stuhldreier Lukas , van Rennings Ruben , Jeschke Peter
Published: December 2020

This paper presents a numerical investigation of the effects of compressing various gases, for example, carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4), on an eight-stage axial air compressor. Several adaptation methods are applied to achieve a similar operating point as for air.
Theoretically, the operating point depends on Mach number, flow angles, Reynolds number and isentropic exponent. Numerical results show mismatch effects which arise in the parameters using a non-adapted geometry. A rematching procedure is described, including deduced speed adjustments, in order to achieve Mach number equality at compressor inlet. Only shroud modifications are performed to rematch the flow angles of the air simulation. Although Reynolds and Mach number are kept constant at compressor inlet, an inevitable deviation in downstream flow causes mismatches in efficiency and pressure ratio. Both analytical and numerical methodologies show that the scale of shroud adjustments, as well as the size of mismatch in Mach and Reynolds number, can be correlated to the isentropic gas exponent.
In summary, the main impact on gas behavior in an axial air compressor is attributable to the change in isentropic exponent. Derivations of shroud adaptation and analyses of inevitable aerodynamic mismatch are therefore developed depending on the isentropic exponent.
Стан наукових досліджень проблем розслідування шахрайств, учинених із використанням електронно-обчислювальної техніки
Authors: Романенко Т.В.
Published: December 2020

У статті висвітлено стан наукових досліджень проблем розслідування шахрайств, учинених із використанням електронно-обчислювальної техніки. Установлено, що розвиток сучасних інформаційних технологій, удосконалення виробництва й розширення сфери застосування новітньої кібернетичної техніки дали можливість зародження специфічного, складного виду злочинних діянь, де комп’ютерне оснащення та електронна інформація є об’єктом протиправного посягання. Визначено, що поряд із позитивними здобутками, інформатизація супроводжується побічним негативним явищем криміногенного характеру, до якого належать злочини у сфері електронно-обчислювальних машин (комп’ютерів), систем і комп’ютерних мереж або ж «комп’ютерна злочинність» (скорочена назва цього виду злочинів). Констатовано відсутність єдиної думки щодо того, які саме елементи слід залучати до криміналістичної характеристики злочинів у сфері використання електронно-обчислювальної техніки (комп’ютерів), систем і комп’ютерних мереж і мереж електрозв’язку.
Искусственный прообраз неандертальца в современном человеке (с позиции автора)
Authors: Розовский Б.Г.
Published: December 2020

В статье автором была сделана попытка проанализировать проблему войны в результате развязанных конфликтов, а также возможного навязывания гражданам культуры так называемых «патриотических убийств», нормативного мародерства, которое непосредственно может влиять на уровень преступности. Однако замечено, что в чрезвычайных обстоятельствах наглядно проявляются признаки биологической природы асоциального поведения человека. Также отмечено, что современные генетические исследования могут найти способы предупреждения асоциальности человека, а также склонности его к убийствам и т. п. Кроме того, автором замечено, что попытки не всегда бывают удачными.
ARCHITECTURAL AND URBAN FEATURES OF ODESA FILM STUDIO AS PREREQUISITES FOR ITS MODERNIZATION
Authors: Komarov Mykhailo
Published: December 2020

The article discusses practical principles for possible architectural and constructional modernization of Odesa Film Studio, Odesa, Ukraine, on the basis of comparison with other film studios.
TRADITIONS AND INNOVATIONS IN APPLIED ART: CALLIGRAPHY AS AN ESSENTIAL PART OF CHINESE ARTISTIC CULTURE AND ITS THERAPEUTIC EFFECT ON MENTAL HEALTH
Authors: Zhang Biyun
Published: December 2020

Calligraphy, as one of the artistic and cultural treasures of China, has a very long history and symbolizes the spirit of Chinese culture. With the advancement of mental health research, calligraphy has become an indispensable force and has gained significant results in the treatment of mental illness. This article summarizes the relationship between calligraphy and human emotions and analyzes the positive effect of calligraphy art therapy on mental health through research on the development of calligraphy therapy.
PONS ARCIS VS COLUMNAE TRAJANI
Authors: Plamenytska Olga
Published: December 2020

The article highlights the results of the research of the Castle Bridge in Kamianets-Podilsky, which allowed to deepen the chronology of the bridge’s appearance back to the first centuries AD ‒ the age of Trajan’s Wars, and to insert the Castle Bridge into the context of fortification construction represented by the remains of the defense structures of the first centuries AD that were discovered in Kamianets-Podilsky in 1970 ‒1990. The search of architectural and construction analogues of the bridge has led to the reliefs depicted on the Trajan’s Column in Rome (113 AD), the analysis of which allowed, in its turn, to rebut the generally accepted by the world science attribution of one of the column’s reliefs (XCIX) as the depiction of the Bridge over Danube, constructed in 103‒105 by Apollodorus of Damascus during the Dacian Wars. The author suggest a new attribution of the image of this bridge on Trajan’s Column, interpreting one of the well-known reliefs as the depiction of the bridge (LXXXVI). She argues in favor of the fact that the Bridge over Danube was completely made of stone and had no wooden arches. It became the first attempt of Apollodorus of Damascus, the author of the dome of Pantheon in Rome, to apply the Roman concrete in arches on large-scale constructions. Using the reliefs of the column as analogy allowed the author to reconstruct the image of the bridge in Kamyanets-Podilsky for the period of the first centuries AD. The conducted researches also give grounds to consider the Middle Dniester region as a contact zone on the border of early-Slavic and late-Antique worlds.
Transformação digital na Educação Superior: modos e impactos na universidade
Authors: Pacheco Roberto Carlos dos Santos , Santos Neri dos , Wahrhaftig Ramiro
Published: December 2020

Estruturadas no modelo Humboldtiano do início do século 19, as universidades iniciam a terceira década do século 21 enfrentando novos e complexos desafios na sociedade digital contemporânea. Para a Educação Superior, de um lado, a transformação digital apresenta intensa demanda por modificações estruturais nas formas de ensino e aprendizagem (Educação Digital Modo 1) e, de outro, oferece uma gama de mecanismos para modificação das estruturas organizacionais das instituições de ensino (Educação Digital Modo 2). Neste artigo, analisamos os fatores e atores que caracterizam esses dois modos de educação digital e apresentamos mapa estratégico de possibilidades de projetos de transformação digital universitária, com abrangência nos dois modos de educação digital. Tratam-se de mudanças organizacionais culturais e estruturais, entre as quais destacam-se as capacidades relacionais de coprodução com os demais atores do ecossistema socio-econômico (i.e., na sociedade digital a publicação acadêmica valiosa revela conhecimento coproduzido).
Design Limitations, Errors and Hazards in Creating Decision Support Platforms with Large- and Very Large-Scale Data and Program Cores
Authors: Koukoutsis Elias , Papaodysseus Constantin , Tsavdaridis George , Karadimas Nikolaos V. , Ballis Athanasios , Mamatsi Eirini , Mamatsis Athanasios Rafail
Published: December 2020

Recently, very large-scale decision support systems (DSSs) have been developed, which tackle very complex problems, associated with very extensive and polymorphic information, which probably is geographically highly dispersed. The management, updating, modification and upgrading of the data and program core of such an information system is, as a rule, a very difficult task, which encompasses many hazards and risks. The purpose of the present work was (a) to list the more significant of these hazards and risks and (b) to introduce a new general methodology for designing decision support (DS) systems that are robust and circumvent these risks. The core of this new approach was the introduction of a meta-database, called teleological, on the base of which management, updating, modification, reduction, growth and upgrading of the system may be safely and efficiently achieved. The very same teleological meta-database can be used for the construction of a sound decision support system, incorporating elements of a previous one at a future stage.
Generation Z and Key-Factors on E-Commerce: A Study on the Portuguese Tourism Sector
Authors: Vieira Jorge , Frade Rui , Ascenso Raquel , Prates Inês , Martinho Filipa
Published: December 2020

In recent years, tourism has experienced remarkable growth worldwide. This sector is rapidly becoming the main export activity and the most important source of GDP growth in several countries. In Portugal, it represented around 19.7% of exports in 2019. The internet and online platforms contributed decisively to this growth. Generation Z already represents a considerable portion of society and, in the coming years, will become the central consumer segment. With this research, we intend to identify the key factors in the decision to purchase online, in Generation Z individuals, in the Portuguese tourism sector. We carried out a characterization of the sector, a bibliographic review and the identification of key variables. We applied a structured questionnaire to a sample of 233 individuals aged between 10 and 25 years. Subsequently, the data were processed using descriptive methodologies and association tests between variables. The key factors in the decision to purchase tourism products/services in Generation Z are Trust, Price, the use of aggregating websites, WOM/EWOM, the Offer of products/services online and the Online experience. In the opposite direction, it was given less importance to Convenience, Reviews on tourism websites, Tourism Advertising, Social networking and the possibility of Canceling the reservation. This study allows us to establish the bases for future research, to help researchers to understand Generation Z consumption habits.
Fabrication and Evaluation of a Cabbage Harvester Prototype
Authors: El Didamony Mohamed Ibrahim , El Shal Ahmed Mohamed
Published: December 2020

A cabbage harvester prototype was fabricated and tested to save time, cost, and labor for harvesting. This harvester was designed for harvesting operations to drive the prototype and control the harvester. The single-row prototype harvesting meets the functional requirements of the physical properties of the Egyptian cabbage. The performance of the harvester prototype was evaluated on two shapes of cutter disc, four cutter disc speeds, and four cutter disc angles; these parameters were assessed at 88% moisture content of the cabbage head and average forward speed of 1.5 km/h. The results demonstrated that the serrated edge cutter discs and 900 rpm disc speed produced actual productivity of 12.56 ton/h, 2.28 kW power requirements, 0.18 kW h/ton specific energy requirement, and of 3.66 $/h operating cost. It turns out that the harvester did not do major harm to the cabbage and less than 4% damage. Operating the harvester at the optimum parameters saves cost and time compared with manual harvesting.
Measuring and Comparing Forces Acting on Moldboard Plow and Para-Plow with Wing to Replace Moldboard Plow with Para-Plow for Tillage and Modeling It Using Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Interface System (ANFIS)
Authors: Abbaspour-Gilandeh Mohammadreza , Shahgoli Gholamhossein , Abbaspour-Gilandeh Yousef , Herrera-Miranda Miguel Apolonio , Hernández-Hernández José Luis , Herrera-Miranda Israel
Published: December 2020

The objective of this study was to measure the draft, vertical, and lateral forces acting on the moldboard plow, para-plow without a wing, para-plow with forward-bent wing, and para-plow with a backward-bent wing at three working depths and three forward speeds in clay loam soil to investigate the use of a suitable para-plow instead of the moldboard plow. Also, modeling the draft, vertical, and lateral forces acting on the implements using Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Interface System (ANFIS) was another objective of this research. To measure the draft, vertical, and lateral forces, a three-point hitch dynamometer was used. The results showed that, with the increment of the forward speed and working depth, the draft force required by the used implements increased. This increase was also true for vertical and lateral forces acting on the implements. Modeling of the draft, vertical, and lateral forces acting on the implements was performed using the effective parameters of the implements, working depth, and forward traveling speed using the (ANFIS) fuzzy neural system model. The root mean square error (RMSE) for the draft, vertical, and lateral forces for the above models were obtained equal to 0.121, 0.014, and 0.016, respectively.
Efficacy of Plant Materials in Controlling Aphids on Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench) in Limpopo Province of South Africa
Authors: Murovhi Jeremia , Phophi Mutondwa Masindi , Mafongoya Paramu
Published: December 2020

Smallholder farmers in Limpopo Province generate income through growing vegetable crops such as cabbage, tomato, and okra. These crops are produced for local and national markets. Okra crops are highly constrained by aphids. Smallholder farmers rely only on synthetic insecticides to manage aphids. This paper evaluated the efficacy of five plant materials (bio pesticides): pawpaw (Carica papaya L.), Mexican marigold (Tagetes minuta L.), serrano pepper (Capsicum annuum L.), common lantana (Lantana camara L.) and tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) on Aphis gossypii population in okra production. The field experiment was laid in a randomized complete block design, with seven treatments (five plant materials, mercaptothion insecticide as a control and the absolute control) replicated three times. Aphid abundance, leaf damage and the correlation between leaf damage and aphid abundance were analyzed using analysis of variance. Carica papaya L. (0.87) and Tagetes minuta L. (0.87) were more effective in reducing aphid abundance. Leaf damage caused by aphids was lowest in the Carica papaya L. treatment (1.11) and the Tagetes minuta L. treatment (1.12). There was a strong positive correlation between aphid abundance and leaf damage (r = 0.86). Plant materials: Carica papaya L. and Tagetesminuta L. could be incorporated into an overall integrated pest management system to reduce aphid abundance and leaf damage.
Effect of Differentiated Nitrogen Fertilization on the Enzymatic Activity of the Soil for Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas L. [Lam.]) Cultivation
Authors: Sawicka Barbara , Krochmal-Marczak Barbara , Pszczółkowski Piotr , Bielińska Elżbieta Jolanta , Wójcikowska-Kapusta Anna , Barbaś Piotr , Skiba Dominika
Published: December 2020

The experiment was conducted between 2015–2017 in the Research Station for Cultivar Testing in Uhnin (51°34′ N, 23°02′ E), in Luvisols developed from sandy loam soils. Soil samples for the tests of enzymatic activity were collected after the crop was harvested. The measurements included: the content of dehydrogenases, phosphatases, urease and protease, as well as total organic carbon, total nitrogen and mineral nitrogen in soil, based on standard methods. The research results point to changes in the enzymatic activity of light soil under the influence of varied nitrogen fertilization. In objects fertilized with this ingredient, the activity of the analysed enzymes was significantly higher than in the control soil, except for combinations fertilised with 150 kg ha−1 N characterised by the highest accumulation of N-NO3− in soil. The activity of dehydrogenases, phosphatases and urease changed as the nitrogen dose increased. The polynomial regression analysis enabled a better understanding of those dependences. In the case of dehydrogenases, phosphatases and urease, a third-degree curvilinear relation of enzymatic activity to nitrogen fertilisation was observed (a fourth-degree relation was found, with a coefficient R2 in those equations amounting to =0.958, 0.977, 0.979, respectively) and in the case of protease activity, a fourth-degree relation, with coefficient R2 = 0.989. However, soil acidity did not have a significant influence on either the enzymatic activity or physico-chemical characteristics of soil under the cultivation of sweet potatoes. The C:N ratio turned out to be significantly negatively related to the content of the enzymes dehydrogenase (Adh), phosphatase (AF), urease (AU) and protease (AP) as well as the content of total nitrogen, especially its ammonium form (N-NH4). The obtained results indicate the usefulness of research on enzymatic activity as an indicator of soil reaction to nitrogen fertilization and will enable maintenance of the optimal biological balance of cultivated soils.
Elemental Composition, Antioxidant and Antibacterial Properties of Some Wild Edible Mushrooms from Romania
Authors: Fogarasi Melinda , Diaconeasa Zorița Maria , Pop Carmen Rodica , Fogarasi Szabolcs , Semeniuc Cristina Anamaria , Fărcaş Anca Corina , Țibulcă Dorin , Sălăgean Claudiu-Dan , Tofană Maria , Socaci Sonia Ancuța
Published: December 2020

Five selected wild edible mushrooms from Romania (Agaricus bisporus, Pleurotus ostreatus, Cantharellus cibarius, Boletus edulis, and Lactarius piperatus) were investigated for their antioxidant potential using an ABTS spectrophotometric assay. Among the selected mushrooms, B. edulis displayed the highest radical scavenging activity and the greatest phenolic content, measured by the Folin–Ciocalteu reagent method. The total flavonoids were quantified using the aluminum chloride colorimetric method, with the extract of B. edulis being the richest. L. piperatus and B. edulis mushrooms exhibited the strongest antibacterial activity against S. aureus and E. coli. The content of trace elements was determined using an atomic absorption spectrometer, and it was found that K and Mg were the main metals present in all the selected mushroom species. The obtained results suggest that the studied wild edible mushrooms are natural functional matrices, and may have potential to be used as natural antioxidants if they are introduced into the daily diet.
Sustainability Assessment of Smallholder Agroforestry Indigenous Farming in the Amazon: A Case Study of Ecuadorian Kichwas
Authors: Heredia-R Marco , Torres Bolier , Cayambe Jhenny , Ramos Nadia , Luna Marcelo , Diaz-Ambrona Carlos G. H.
Published: December 2020

In the Amazon, the Yasuní Biosphere Reserve (YBR) is considered a natural and cultural diversity hotspot. It is populated by several indigenous groups, including the Kichwa, who are characterized by their traditional systems of production, which are a means of subsistence and socio-ecological integration. The objective of this research was to evaluate the sustainability of small farmers who use a traditional agroforestry system (chakra) within the buffer, transition, and core zones of the YBR. We conducted 133 interviews with Kichwa heads of households. The socio-demographic structure and distribution were identified, and the response-inducing sustainability evaluation (RISE) methodology was used to evaluate chakra sustainability according to social, economic, and ecological dimensions, expressed using 10 indicators from 50 parameters, valued from 0 (worst case) to 100 (best case). The results are expressed in a polygon, defined by the areas: (1) good performance, (2) medium performance, and (3) poor performance. We employed the multivariate classification hierarchical cluster technique and analysis of variance (ANOVA) to identify dissimilarities between groups of chakras and the existence of statistical differences, respectively. Among the studied indigenous Kichwas, a pyramidal structure progressive type was identified, which is characteristic of young populations and the nonexistence of significant differences between the RISE indicators and chakras. The lowest-scoring indicators using the RISE guidelines were: use of materials and environmental protection, animal production, economic viability and chakra administration. We provide suggestions for decision makers who support Kichwa populations in socio-productive management with sustainability goals. We to taking actions on the indicators identified with high priority to improve the sustainability in the chakras and sociodemographic dynamics.
What’s in a Meow? A Study on Human Classification and Interpretation of Domestic Cat Vocalizations
Authors: Prato-Previde Emanuela , Cannas Simona , Palestrini Clara , Ingraffia Sara , Battini Monica , Ludovico Luca Andrea , Ntalampiras Stavros , Presti Giorgio , Mattiello Silvana
Published: December 2020

Although the domestic cat (Felis catus) is probably the most widespread companion animal in the world and interacts in a complex and multifaceted way with humans, the human–cat relationship and reciprocal communication have received far less attention compared, for example, to the human–dog relationship. Only a limited number of studies have considered what people understand of cats’ human-directed vocal signals during daily cat–owner interactions. The aim of the current study was to investigate to what extent adult humans recognize cat vocalizations, namely meows, emitted in three different contexts: waiting for food, isolation, and brushing. A second aim was to evaluate whether the level of human empathy toward animals and cats and the participant’s gender would positively influence the recognition of cat vocalizations. Finally, some insights on which acoustic features are relevant for the main investigation are provided as a serendipitous result. Two hundred twenty-five adult participants were asked to complete an online questionnaire designed to assess their knowledge of cats and to evaluate their empathy toward animals (Animal Empathy Scale). In addition, participants had to listen to six cat meows recorded in three different contexts and specify the context in which they were emitted and their emotional valence. Less than half of the participants were able to associate cats’ vocalizations with the correct context in which they were emitted; the best recognized meow was that emitted while waiting for food. Female participants and cat owners showed a higher ability to correctly classify the vocalizations emitted by cats during brushing and isolation. A high level of empathy toward cats was significantly associated with a better recognition of meows emitted during isolation. Regarding the emotional valence of meows, it emerged that cat vocalizations emitted during isolation are perceived by people as the most negative, whereas those emitted during brushing are perceived as most positive. Overall, it emerged that, although meowing is mainly a human-directed vocalization and in principle represents a useful tool for cats to communicate emotional states to their owners, humans are not particularly able to extract precise information from cats’ vocalizations and show a limited capacity of discrimination based mainly on their experience with cats and influenced by empathy toward them.
Association of TMEM8B and SPAG8 with Mature Weight in Sheep
Authors: Cinar Mehmet Ulas , Mousel Michelle R. , Herndon Maria K. , Taylor J. Bret , White Stephen N.
Published: December 2020

Signature of selection studies have identified many genomic regions with known functional importance and some without verified functional roles. Multiple studies have identified Transmembrane protein 8B (TMEM8B)rs426272889 as having been recently under extreme selection pressure in domesticated sheep, but no study has provided sheep phenotypic data clarifying a reason for extreme selection. We tested rs426272889 for production trait association in 770 U.S. Rambouillet, Targhee, Polypay, and Suffolk sheep. TMEM8Brs426272889 was associated with mature weight at 3 and 4 years (p < 0.05). This suggested selection for sheep growth and body size might explain the historical extreme selection pressure in this genomic region. We also tested Sperm-associated antigen 8 (SPAG8) rs160159557 encoding a G493C substitution. While this variant was associated with mature weights at ages 3 and 4, it was not as strongly associated as TMEM8Brs426272889. Transmembrane protein 8B has little functional information except as an inhibitor of cancer cell proliferation. To our knowledge, this is the first study linking TMEM8B to whole organism growth and body size under standard conditions. Additional work will be necessary to identify the underlying functional variant(s). Once identified, such variants could be used to improve sheep production through selective breeding.
Quality and Safety of Marinating Breast Muscles of Hens from Organic Farming after the Laying Period with Buttermilk and Whey
Authors: Augustyńska-Prejsnar Anna , Sokołowicz Zofia , Hanus Paweł , Ormian Małgorzata , Kačániová Miroslava
Published: December 2020

The material for the study was the breast muscles of hens after the laying period which were marinated with buttermilk and acid whey for 24 and 48 h. The quality parameters of non-marinated and marinated raw and roast products were evaluated in respect of physical traits (marinade absorption, pH, colour L*a*b*, shear force, TPA texture profile analysis test), microbiological parameters and sensory characteristics. The microbiological parameters were determined as the total viable counts of mesophilic aerobic bacteria of the Enterobacteriaceae family and Pseudomonas spp. Bacterial identification was performed by MALDI-TOF MS. The study showed that marinating the breast muscles of hens after the laying period with buttermilk and whey lightened the colour (p < 0.05), decreased the shear force value (p < 0.05), and reduced hardness and chewiness (p < 0.05) both after 24 and 48 h of marinating compared to the control product. The 24-h time of marinating with buttermilk and whey inhibited (p < 0.05) the growth of aerobic bacteria and Pseudomonas spp. and had a positive effect on the desirable odour, the intensity and desirability of flavour as well as the roast product tenderness. Longer marinating time reduced the product palatability and decreased its microbiological safety. The obtained results suggest that the 24-h time of marinating hen meat after the laying period with buttermilk and acid whey allows to obtainment of a high-quality product.
Use of Oral Tetracyclines in the Treatment of Adult Patients with Community-Acquired Bacterial Pneumonia: A Literature Review on the Often-Overlooked Antibiotic Class
Authors: Bidell Monique R. , Pai Manjunath (Amit) P. , Lodise Thomas P.
Published: December 2020

Oral tetracyclines have been used in clinical practice for over 60 years. Overall, one of the most common indications for use of oral tetracyclines is for treatment of adult outpatients with lower respiratory tract infections, including community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). Despite the longstanding use of oral tetracyclines, practice patterns indicate that they are often considered after other guideline-concordant oral CAP treatment options (namely macrolides, fluoroquinolones, and β-lactams). However, there are growing resistance or safety concerns with the available oral agents listed for outpatients with CAP in the updated American Thoracic Society (ATS)/Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) CAP guidelines, especially among patients with comorbidities or notable risk factors for resistant pathogens. Given the need for alternative oral agents to macrolides, fluoroquinolones, and beta-lactams for adult outpatients with CAP, this review summarizes the literature on the use of oral tetracyclines (i.e., doxycycline, minocycline, and omadacycline) for this indication. As part of this review, we described their mechanism of action, common mechanisms of resistance, susceptibility profiles against common CAP pathogens, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, clinical data, and safety. The intent of the review is to highlight the important considerations when deciding between doxycycline, minocycline, and omadacycline for an adult outpatient with CAP in situations in which use of an oral tetracycline is warranted.
Short-Term Lincomycin Exposure Depletion of Murine Microbiota Affects Short-Chain Fatty Acids and Intestinal Morphology and Immunity
Authors: Zhang Shunfen , Zhong Ruqing , Han Hui , Yi Bao , Yin Jie , Chen Liang , Zhang Hongfu
Published: December 2020

Lincomycin, as one of the most commonly used antibiotics, may cause intestinal injury, enteritis and other side effects, but it remains unknown whether these effects are associated with microbial changes and the effects of different doses of lincomycin on infants. Here, 21-day old mice were exposed to 1 and 5 g/L lincomycin to explore the effects of lincomycin on the gut microbiota, metabolites and inflammation. Compared to the control mice, 1 g/L lincomycin exposure decreased the body weight gain of mice (p < 0.05). Both 1 and 5 g/L lincomycin exposure reduced the diversity and microbial composition of mice (p < 0.05). Furthermore, 1 and 5 g/L lincomycin reduced the relative concentrations of acetate, propionate, butyrate, valerate, isobutyric acid and isovaleric acid in the colon chyme of mice (p < 0.05). In addition, 5 g/L lincomycin exposure reduced the villus height, crypt depth, and relative expression of TLR2, TLR3, TLR4, IL-18, TNF-α, and p65 in the jejunum of mice (p < 0.05), while 1 g/L lincomycin exposure reduced the relative expression of TLR2, TLR3, TNF-α, and p65 (p < 0.05). Collectively, these results highlight the depletion effect of short-term lincomycin exposure on microbiota and the further regulatory effect on intestinal morphology and immunosuppression in infant mice.
Phoenix dactylifera L. Seed Extract Exhibits Antioxidant Effects and Attenuates Melanogenesis in B16F10 Murine Melanoma Cells by Downregulating PKA Signaling
Authors: Huang Huey-Chun , Wang Shr-Shiuan , Tsai Tsang-Chi , Ko Wang-Ping , Chang Tsong-Min
Published: December 2020

Background: The mode of action of Phoenix dactylifera seed extract in skin care has never been explored. Methods: P. dactylifera L. seeds were extracted by ultrasonic extraction. The antioxidant characteristics of the extract were determined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′-azino-di-(3-ethylbenzthiazoline sulfonic acid) (ABTS+) assays and scavenging methods. The total phenolic content, reducing capacity, iron (II) ion-chelation, and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS)-scavenging capacities were also investigated. The effects of P. dactylifera L. seed extract on melanogenesis were evaluated spectrophotometrically by a mushroom tyrosinase activity assay, determination of intracellular tyrosinase activity, and melanin content. The expression levels of melanogenesis-related proteins were analyzed by Western blotting. Results: The results revealed that the P. dactylifera L. seed extract exerted apparent antioxidant capacity and significantly decreased intracellular ROS content at concentrations of 0.245 and 0.49 (mg/mL). Furthermore, the extract decreased the expression of melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R), microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF), tyrosinase, tyrosinase-related protein-1 (TRP1), and tyrosinase-related protein-2 (TRP2), and inhibited melanogenesis in B16F10 cells. Conclusions: Our results revealed that P. dactylifera L. seed extract attenuated melanogenesis in B16F10 cells by downregulating protein kinase A (PKA) signaling pathways. Hence, the extract could be used as a type of skin-whitening agent in skin care products.
Quantitative Spatiotemporal Mapping of Lipid and Protein Oxidation in Mayonnaise
Authors: Yang Suyeon , Verhoeff Aletta A. , Merkx Donny W. H. , van Duynhoven John P. M. , Hohlbein Johannes
Published: December 2020

Lipid oxidation in food emulsions is mediated by emulsifiers in the water phase and at the oil–water interface. To unravel the physico-chemical mechanisms and to obtain local lipid and protein oxidation rates, we used confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), thereby monitoring changes in both the fluorescence emission of a lipophilic dye BODIPY 665/676 and protein auto-fluorescence. Our data show that the removal of lipid-soluble antioxidants from mayonnaises promotes lipid oxidation within oil droplets as well as protein oxidation at the oil–water interface. Furthermore, we demonstrate that ascorbic acid acts as either a lipid antioxidant or pro-oxidant depending on the presence of lipid-soluble antioxidants. The effects of antioxidant formulation on local lipid and protein oxidation rates were all statistically significant (p < 0.0001). The observed protein oxidation at the oil–water interface was spatially heterogeneous, which is in line with the heterogeneous distribution of lipoprotein granules from the egg yolk used for emulsification. The impact of the droplet size on local lipid and protein oxidation rates was significant (p < 0.0001) but minor compared to the effects of ascorbic acid addition and lipid-soluble antioxidant depletion. The presented results demonstrate that CLSM can be applied for unraveling the roles of colloidal structure and transport in mediating lipid oxidation in complex food emulsions.
Molecular Mechanisms That Link Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Fibrosis in the Liver
Authors: Ramos-Tovar Erika , Muriel Pablo
Published: December 2020

Activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and myofibroblasts are the main producers of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins that form the fibrotic tissue that leads to hepatic fibrosis. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) can directly activate HSCs or induce inflammation or programmed cell death, especially pyroptosis, in hepatocytes, which in turn activates HSCs and fibroblasts to produce ECM proteins. Therefore, antioxidants and the nuclear factor E2-related factor-2 signaling pathway play critical roles in modulating the profibrogenic response. The master proinflammatory factors nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain (NOD)-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome may coordinate to produce and activate profibrogenic molecules such as interleukins 1β and 18, which effectively activate HSCs, to produce large amounts of fibrotic proteins. Furthermore, the NLRP3 inflammasome activates pro-caspase 1, which is upregulated by NF-κB, to produce caspase 1, which induces pyroptosis via gasdermin and the activation of HSCs. ROS play central roles in the activation of the NF-κB and NLRP3 signaling pathways via IκB (an inhibitor of NF-κB) and thioredoxin-interacting protein, respectively, thereby linking the molecular mechanisms of oxidative stress, inflammation and fibrosis. Elucidating these molecular pathways may pave the way for the development of therapeutic tools to interfere with specific targets.
New and Emerging Risk Factors in Occupational Health
Authors: Magnavita Nicola , Chirico Francesco
Published: December 2020

Workplace health and safety is constantly evolving both in developed and developing countries. Under the tumultuous development of technology, working environments are changing, leading to the onset of new occupational hazards and unprecedented risk conditions deriving from the new ways of organizing work. At the same time, progress in medical science, with the knowledge in the fields of genetics, metabolomics, big data, and smart technologies, makes it possible to promptly identify and treat risk conditions that would have escaped notice in the past. Personalized occupational medicine represents the frontier of prevention in the workplace, from the perspective of total worker health and the sustainability of resources. The contributions to this Special Issue range from chemical, physical, and biological to psychosocial risks, and from the search for new ways to control long-known risks, such as mercury toxicity, to observations of the most frequent pathologies in the workplace in the last twenty years, such as repetitive trauma diseases, immunodeficiency transmitted as a result of biological injuries, and violence and psychological trauma in the workplace. New insights are needed in occupational health and safety practice to address the new challenges in this field.
Detection of Smoking in Indoor Environment Using Machine Learning
Authors: Cho Jae Hyuk
Published: December 2020

Revealed by the effect of indoor pollutants on the human body, indoor air quality management is increasing. In particular, indoor smoking is one of the common sources of indoor air pollution, and its harmfulness has been well studied. Accordingly, the regulation of indoor smoking is emerging all over the world. Technical approaches are also being carried out to regulate indoor smoking, but research is focused on detection hardware. This study includes analytical and machine learning approach of cigarette detection by detecting typical gases (total volatile organic compounds, CO2 etc.) being collected from IoT sensors. In detail, data set for machine learning was built using IoT sensors, including training data set securely collected from the rotary smoking machine and test data set gained from actual indoor environment with spontaneous smokers. The prediction accuracy was evaluated with accuracy, precision, and recall. As a result, the non-linear support vector machine (SVM) model showed the best performance with 93% in accuracy and 88% in the F1 score. The supervised learning k-nearest neighbors (KNN) and multilayer perceptron (MLP) models also showed relatively fine results, but shows effectivity simplifying prediction with binary classification to improve accuracy and speed.
Development of Cost and Schedule Data Integration Algorithm Based on Big Data Technology
Authors: Cho Daegu , Lee Myungdo , Shin Jihye
Published: December 2020

In the information age, the role of data in any industry is getting more and more important. In the construction industry, however, experts’ experience and intuition are still key determinants in decision-making, while other industries achieve tangible improvement in paradigm shifts by adopting cutting-edge information technology. Cost and schedule controls, which are closely connected, are decisive in the success of construction project execution. While a vast body of research has developed methodologies for cost-schedule integration over 50 years, there is no method used in practice; it remains a significant challenge in the construction industry. This study aims to propose a data processing algorithm for integrated cost-schedule data management employing big data technology. It is designed to resolve the main obstacle to the practicality of existing methods by providing integrity and flexibility in integrating cost-schedule data and reducing time on building and changing databases. The proposed algorithm is expected to transform field engineers’ current perception regarding information management as one of the troublesome tasks in a data-friendly way.
RNA-Peptide Conjugation through an Efficient Covalent Bond Formation
Authors: Nakano Shun , Seko Taiki , Zhang Zhengxiao , Morii Takashi
Published: December 2020

Many methods for modification of an oligonucleotide with a peptide have been developed to apply for the therapeutic and diagnostic applications or for the assembly of nanostructure. We have developed a method for the construction of receptor-based fluorescent sensors and catalysts using the ribonucleopeptide (RNP) as a scaffold. Formation of a covalent linkage between the RNA and the peptide subunit of RNP improved its stability, thereby expanding the application of functional RNPs. A representative method was applied for the formation of Schiff base or dihydroxy-morpholino linkage between a dialdehyde group at the 3′-end of sugar-oxidized RNA and a hydrazide group introduced at the C-terminal of a peptide subunit through a flexible peptide linker. In this report, we investigated effects of the solution pH and contribution of the RNA and peptide subunits to the conjugation reaction by using RNA and peptide mutants. The reaction yield reached 90% at a wide range of solution pH with reaction within 3 h. The efficient reaction was mainly supported by the electrostatic interaction between the RNA subunit and the cationic peptide subunit of the RNP scaffold. Formation of the RNP complex was verified to efficiently promote the reaction for construction of the RNA-peptide conjugate.
Modified Gingival Index (MGI) Classification Using Dental Selfies
Authors: Tobias Guy , Spanier Assaf B.
Published: December 2020

Background: Gum diseases are prevalent in a large proportion of the population worldwide. Unfortunately, most people do not follow a regular dental checkup schedule, and only seek treatment when experiencing acute pain. We aim to provide a system for classifying gum health status based on the MGI (Modified Gingival Index) score using dental selfies alone. Method: The input to our method is a manually cropped tooth image and the output is the MGI classification of gum health status. Our method consists of a cascade of two stages of robust, accurate, and highly optimized binary classifiers optimized per tooth position. Results: Dataset constructed from a pilot study of 44 participants taking dental selfies using our iGAM app. From each such dental selfie, eight single-tooth images were manually cropped, producing a total of 1520 images. The MGI score for each image was determined by a single examiner dentist. On a held-out test-set our method achieved an average AUC (Area Under the Curve) score of 95%. Conclusion: The paper presents a new method capable of accurately classifying gum health status based on the MGI score given a single dental selfie. Enabling personal monitoring of gum health—particularly useful when face-to-face consultations are not possible.
A Lightweight Blockchain Scheme for a Secure Smart Dust IoT Environment
Authors: Park Joonsuu , Park KeeHyun
Published: December 2020

Since a smart dust Internet of Things (IoT) system includes a very large number of devices sometimes deployed in hard-access areas, it is very difficult to prevent security attacks and to alleviate bottleneck phenomena. In this paper, we propose a lightweight blockchain scheme that helps device authentication and data security in a secure smart dust IoT environment. To achieve our goals, (1) we propose the structure of the lightweight blockchain and the algorithm of processing the blockchain. In addition, (2) we reorganize the linear block structure of the conventional blockchain into the binary tree structure in such a way that the proposed blockchain is more efficient in a secure smart dust IoT environment. Experiments show that the proposed binary tree-structured lightweight blockchain scheme can greatly reduce the time required for smart dust device authentication, even taking into account the tree transformation overhead. Compared with the conventional linear-structured blockchain scheme, the proposed binary tree-structured lightweight blockchain scheme achieves performance improvement by up to 40% (10% in average) with respect to the authentication time.