bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Aphid Density and Plant Taxa on Predatory Ladybeetle Abundance at Field and Landscape Scales
Authors: Pan Hongsheng , Liu Bing , Jaworski Coline C. , Yang Long , Liu Yongqiang , Desneux Nicolas , Thomine Eva , Lu Yanhui
Published: October 2020

In agroecosystems, predatory ladybeetles play an important role in restraining aphid population growth and suppressing aphid populations. They can adapt to various habitats and make use of various aphid species associated with multiple host plants during their life cycle. Agricultural landscapes in China are composed of a mosaic of small fields with a diverse range of crops, and how ladybeetles make use of host plant diversity in such landscapes has rarely been documented. In this study, we examined the relationship between aphid densities and ladybeetle densities in two different settings: (i) on the majority of plant species (including crops, trees, and weeds) at a local field scale in 2013 and 2014, and (ii) in paired cotton and maize crop fields at a regional landscape scale in 2013. Overall, we found that aphid abundance determined predatory ladybeetle abundance at both the local field and landscape scales, and there was a positive correlation between aphid densities and ladybeetle densities. However, plant taxa had no significant influence on the predatory ladybeetle abundance at the local field scale. In addition, the effect of aphids on ladybeetles abundance was influenced by the crop type and growing season at the regional landscape scale. There was a significant positive correlation between aphids and ladybeetles populations on cotton only in July and August, whereas the correlation was significant for maize throughout the whole growing season. We also conducted an analysis of the stable carbon isotope ratios of the adult ladybeetles caught in cotton and maize fields (C3 and C4 crops, respectively) in a regional landscape-scale survey in 2013. The δ13Cvalue indicated that most prey aphids for ladybeetles originated from crops where aphids are abundant (cotton in June and July; both maize and cotton in August).These findings improved our understanding of the migration and dispersal of ladybeetles among different habitats and plant species and provided insight into the promotion of the regional conservation and pest control of natural enemies in northern China.
Landscape and Anthropogenic Factors Associated with Adult Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus in Small Cities in the Southern Great Plains
Authors: Sanders Jordan D. , Talley Justin L. , Frazier Amy E. , Noden Bruce H.
Published: October 2020

As mosquito-borne diseases are a growing human health concern in the United States, the distribution and potential arbovirus risk from container-breeding Aedes mosquitoes is understudied in the southern Great Plains. The aim of the study was to assess landscape and anthropogenic factors associated with encountering adult container-breeding mosquitoes in small cities in southern Oklahoma. Collections were carried out over a 10 week period from June to August 2017 along two geographical transects, each consisting of three cities, equally distant from the Red River/Texas border. Mosquitoes were collected weekly using two trap types along with data for 13 landscape, vegetation, and anthropogenic variables. After five rounds of collection, 6628 female mosquitoes were collected over 2110 trap-nights involving 242 commercial or residential sites in six cities. Of the mosquitoes collected, 80% consisted of container-breeding species: Aedes albopictus (72%), Culex pipiens complex (16%) and Aedes aegypti (8%). Regionally, Aedes aegypti was more likely present in cities closest to the Texas border while Ae. albopictus was spread throughout the region. In general, Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus were significantly more present in sites featuring no or low vegetation and residential sites. Variables associated with Ae. albopictus presence and abundance varied between cities and highlighted the urban nature of the species. The study highlighted the distribution of Ae. aegypti geographically and within the urban context, indicated potential habitat preferences of container-breeding mosquito species in small towns, and demonstrated the usefulness of Gravid Aedes traps (GAT) traps for monitoring Aedes populations in urban habitats in small cities.
BmFoxO Gene Regulation of the Cell Cycle Induced by 20-Hydroxyecdysone in BmN-SWU1 Cells
Authors: Zhang Qian , Yang Jigui , Chen Peng , Liu Taihang , Xiao Qin , Zhou Xiaolin , Wang Ling , Long Yanbi , Dong Zhanqi , Pan Minhui , Lu Cheng
Published: October 2020

Ecdysteroid titer determines the state of the cell cycle in silkworm (Bombyxmori) metamorphosis. However, the mechanism of this process is unclear. In this study, we demonstrated that the BmFoxO gene participates in the regulation of the cell cycle induced by 20-Hydroxyecdysone (20E) in BmN-SWU1 cells. The 20E blocks the cell cycle in the G2/M phase through the ecdysone receptor (EcR) and inhibits DNA replication. The 20E can promote BmFoxO gene expression. Immunofluorescence and Western blot results indicated that 20E can induce BmFoxO nuclear translocation in BmN-SWU1 cells. Overexpression of the BmFoxO gene affects cell cycle progression, which results in cell cycle arrest in the G0/G1 phase as well as inhibition of DNA replication. Knockdown of the BmFoxO gene led to cell accumulation at the G2/M phase. The effect of 20E was attenuated after BmFoxO gene knockdown. These findings increase our understanding of the function of 20E in the regulation of the cell cycle in B. mori.
Simple Controllers for Wave Energy Devices Compared
Authors: García-Violini Demián , Faedo Nicolás , Jaramillo-Lopez Fernando , Ringwood John V.
Published: October 2020

The design of controllers for wave energy devices has evolved from early monochromatic impedance-matching methods to complex numerical algorithms that can handle panchromatic seas, constraints, and nonlinearity. However, the potential high performance of such numerical controller comes at a computational cost, with some algorithms struggling to implement in real-time, and issues surround convergence of numerical optimisers. Within the broader area of control engineering, practitioners have always displayed a fondness for simple and intuitive controllers, as evidenced by the continued popularity of the ubiquitous PID controller. Recently, a number of energy-maximising wave energy controllers have been developed based on relatively simple strategies, stemming from the fundamentals behind impedance-matching. This paper documents this set of (5) controllers, which have been developed over the period 2010–2020, and compares and contrasts their characteristics, in terms of energy-maximising performance, the handling of physical constraints, and computational complexity. The comparison is carried out both analytically and numerically, including a detailed case study, when considering a state-of-the-art CorPower-like device.
Predictive Role of Biopsy Based Biomarkers for Radiotherapy Treatment in Rectal Cancer
Authors: Wen Yugang , Zhao Senlin , Holmqvist Annica , Hahn-Stromberg Victoria , Adell Gunnar , Holmlund Birgitta , Pathak Surajit , Peng Zhihai , Sun Xiao-Feng
Published: October 2020

Background and Purpose: Radiation therapy has long been contemplated as an important mode in the treatment of rectal cancer. However, there are few ideal tools available for clinicians to make a radiotherapy decision at the time of diagnosis for rectal cancer. The purpose of this study was to assess whether biomarkers expressed in the biopsy could help to choose the suitable therapy and provide predictive and/or prognostic information. Experimental Design: In total, 30 biomarkers were analyzed in 219 biopsy samples before treatment to discover the possibility of using them as an indicator for radiotherapy selection, diagnosis, survival and recurrence. Results: Twenty-two biomarkers (COX2-RT, COX2-NonRT, etc.; 36.67%) had diagnostic value. For survival, four biomarkers (NFKBP65, p130, PINCH and PPAR) were significant in regulating gene promoter activity and overall survival, while four had a trend (AEG1, LOX, SATB1 and SIRT6). Three biomarkers (COX2, PINCH and WRAP53) correlated with disease-free survival, while eight had a trend (AEG1, COX2, Ki67, LOX, NFKBP65, PPAR and SATB1). Four biomarkers (COX2-RT, NFKBP65cyto-RT, P130cyto-NonRT and PPARcyto-RT) were independent prognostic factors for recurrence. NFKBP65 and SIRT6 were significantly correlated with lymph node metastasis regardless of radiation. Patients with high AEG1, LOX, NFKBP65, PPAR and SATB1 had or showed a positive trend for better survival after radiotherapy, while those with positive PINCH and WRAP53 expression would not benefit from radiotherapy. Conclusions: AEG1, LOX, NFKBP65cyto, PPAR and SATB1 could be used as indicators for choosing radiotherapy. COX2-RT, COX2-NonRT and some other biomarkers may provide additional help for diagnosis.
Genetic Ablation of MiR-22 Fosters Diet-Induced Obesity and NAFLD Development
Authors: Gjorgjieva Monika , Sobolewski Cyril , Ay Anne-Sophie , Abegg Daniel , Correia de Sousa Marta , Portius Dorothea , Berthou Flavien , Fournier Margot , Maeder Christine , Rantakari Pia , Zhang Fu-Ping , Poutanen Matti , Picard Didier , Montet Xavier , Nef Serge , Adibekian Alexander , Foti Michelangelo
Published: October 2020

miR-22 is one of the most abundant miRNAs in the liver and alterations of its hepatic expression have been associated with the development of hepatic steatosis and insulin resistance, as well as cancer. However, the pathophysiological roles of miR-22-3p in the deregulated hepatic metabolism with obesity and cancer remains poorly characterized. Herein, we observed that alterations of hepatic miR-22-3p expression with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in the context of obesity are not consistent in various human cohorts and animal models in contrast to the well-characterized miR-22-3p downregulation observed in hepatic cancers. To unravel the role of miR-22 in obesity-associated NAFLD, we generated constitutive Mir22 knockout (miR-22KO) mice, which were subsequently rendered obese by feeding with fat-enriched diet. Functional NAFLD- and obesity-associated metabolic parameters were then analyzed. Insights about the role of miR-22 in NAFLD associated with obesity were further obtained through an unbiased proteomic analysis of miR-22KO livers from obese mice. Metabolic processes governed by miR-22 were finally investigated in hepatic transformed cancer cells. Deletion of Mir22 was asymptomatic when mice were bred under standard conditions, except for an onset of glucose intolerance. However, when challenged with a high fat-containing diet, Mir22 deficiency dramatically exacerbated fat mass gain, hepatomegaly, and liver steatosis in mice. Analyses of explanted white adipose tissue revealed increased lipid synthesis, whereas mass spectrometry analysis of the liver proteome indicated that Mir22 deletion promotes hepatic upregulation of key enzymes in glycolysis and lipid uptake. Surprisingly, expression of miR-22-3p in Huh7 hepatic cancer cells triggers, in contrast to our in vivo observations, a clear induction of a Warburg effect with an increased glycolysis and an inhibited mitochondrial respiration. Together, our study indicates that miR-22-3p is a master regulator of the lipid and glucose metabolism with differential effects in specific organs and in transformed hepatic cancer cells, as compared to non-tumoral tissue.
A Trend Analysis of Leaf Area Index and Land Surface Temperature and Their Relationship from Global to Local Scale
Authors: Rasul Azad , Ibrahim Sa’ad , Onojeghuo Ajoke R. , Balzter Heiko
Published: October 2020

Although the way in which vegetation phenology mediates the feedback of vegetation to climate systems is now well understood, the magnitude of these changes is still unknown. A thorough understanding of how the recent shift in phenology may impact on, for example, land surface temperature (LST) is important. To address this knowledge gap, it is important to quantify these impacts and identify patterns from the global to the regional scale. This study examines the trend and linear regression modeling of the leaf area index (LAI) and LST derived from the moderate resolution imaging spectroradiometer (MODIS) data, specifically to assess their spatial distribution and changing trends at the continental and regional scales. The change detection analysis of interannual variability in the global LAI and LST between two periods (2003–2010 and 2011–2018) demonstrates more positive LAI trends than negative, while for LST most changes were not significant. The relationships between LAI and LST were assessed across the continents to ascertain the response of vegetation to changes in LST. The regression between LAI and LST was negative in Australia (R2 = 0.487 ***), positive but minimal in Africa (R2 = 0.001), positive in North America (R2 = 0.641 ***), negative in Central America (R2 = 0.119), positive in South America (R2 = 0.253 *) and positive in Europe (R2 = 0.740 ***). Medium temperatures enhance photosynthesis and lengthen the growing season in Europe. We also found a significant greening trend in China (trendp = 0.16 ***) and India (trendp = 0.13 ***). The relationships between LAI and LST in these most prominent greening countries of the world are R2 = 0.06 and R2 = 0.25 for China and India, respectively. Our deductions here are twofold—(1) In China, an insignificant association appeared between greening trend and temperature. (2) In India, the significant greening trend may be a factor in lowering temperatures. Therefore, temperature may stabilize if the greening trend continues. We attribute the trends in both countries to the different land use management and climate mitigation policies adopted by these countries.
Social Valuation of Mediterranean Cultural Landscapes: Exploring Landscape Preferences and Ecosystem Services Perceptions through a Visual Approach
Authors: Bidegain Íñigo , López-Santiago César A. , González José A. , Martínez-Sastre Rodrigo , Ravera Federica , Cerda Claudia
Published: October 2020

Mediterranean cultural landscapes have been recognized as multifunctional landscapes that are currently threatened by two opposing trends: rural abandonment and agricultural intensification. Uncovering people’s perceptions of different landscape configurations, and how inhabitants value the contributions of nature to human wellbeing, is essential to understanding current landscape trends. In this study, we analyze the social perception of the cultural landscapes of Sierra Morena (Andalusia, Spain) based on 389 face-to-face visual questionnaires in an attempt to understand individuals’ landscape preferences, the reasons behind those preferences and how those landscapes are perceived as suppliers of ecosystem services by different groups of stakeholders. Four groups of stakeholders were identified that differed in how they perceive and value the cultural landscape. An urban-related group was characterized by their preferences for pine plantations and “green” landscapes, guided mostly by aesthetic criteria. A livestock-related group showed a clear preference for wood–pasture landscapes (dehesas) due to their ability to supply multiple ecosystem services. An environmentally aware group showed preferences for dehesas and Mediterranean forests, mainly guided by ecological criteria. Finally, an olive-related group showed a clear preference for olive grove landscapes as key for the regional economy and their cultural identity. Overall, the local inhabitants of Sierra Morena perceived a higher supply of ecosystem services in moderately disturbed landscapes, such as dehesas and mosaic landscapes, than in highly disturbed ones, such as conventional olive groves and pine plantations, or in less used landscapes, such as the Mediterranean forest. Understanding the differences in valuation/demand for ecosystem services among groups of stakeholders, characterized by their landscape preferences, provides important information with which to identify potential trade-offs and conflicts, thereby providing insights into the improvement of landscape planning and decision making.
A Guide to Public Green Space Planning for Urban Ecosystem Services
Authors: Elderbrock Evan , Enright Chris , Lynch Kathryn A. , Rempel Alexandra R.
Published: October 2020

Street trees, native plantings, bioswales, and other forms of green infrastructure alleviate urban air and water pollution, diminish flooding vulnerability, support pollinators, and provide other benefits critical to human well-being. Urban planners increasingly value such urban ecosystem services (ES), and effective methods for deciding among alternative planting regimes using urban ES criteria are under active development. In this effort, integrating stakeholder values and concerns with quantitative urban ES assessments is a central challenge; although it is widely recommended, specific approaches have yet to be explored. Here, we develop, apply, and evaluate such a method in the Friendly Area Neighborhood of Eugene, Oregon by investigating the potential for increased urban ES through the conversion of public lawn to alternative planting regimes that align with expressed stakeholder priorities. We first estimated current urban ES from green space mapping and published supply rates, finding lawn cover and associated ES to be dominant. Resident and expert priorities were then revealed through surveys and Delphi analyses; top priorities included air quality, stormwater quality, native plantings, and pollinator habitat, while concerns focused on cost and safety. Unexpectedly, most residents expressed a willingness to support urban ES improvements financially. This evidence then informed the development of planting regime alternatives among which we compared achievable future urban ES delivery, revealing clear differences among those that maximized stakeholder priorities, those that maximized quantitative urban ES delivery, and their integration. The resulting contribution is a straightforward method for identifying planting regimes with a high likelihood of success in delivering desired urban ES in specific local contexts.
Flame Retardant Properties and Thermal Decomposition Kinetics of Wood Treated with Boric Acid Modified Silica Sol
Authors: Liu Qiangqiang , Chai Yubo , Ni Lin , Lyu Wenhua
Published: October 2020

This paper presents experimental research on the flame-retardant properties and thermal decomposition kinetics of wood treated by boric-acid-modified silica sol. The poplar wood was impregnated with pure silica sol and boric-acid-modified silica sol. The results showed that modifiers can be observed in the cell wall and cell lumen. The ignition time, second peak of the heat release rate, total heat release, and mass loss of the W-Si/B were delayed obviously. The composite silicon modification had a positive impact on carbonization. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that the residual mass of W-Si/B was enhanced and the thermal degradation rate was considerably decreased. By thermal decomposition kinetics analysis, the boric acid can catalyze the thermal degradation and carbonization of poplar wood. In other words, wood treated with boric-acid-modified silica sol showed significant improvement in terms of flame retardancy, compared with wood treated with common silica sol.
Synthesis of a Fluorescent Solvatochromic Resin Using Suzuki–Miyaura Cross-Coupling and Its Optical Waveguide Spectra to Measure the Solvent Polarity on the Surface
Authors: Otsuka Yu , Li Guanglei , Takahashi Hiromi , Satoh Hisashi , Yamada Koji
Published: October 2020

We have established a novel analytical method for solvent polarity on resin surface by combining the synthesis of fluorescent solvatochromic resin with optical waveguide spectrometry. The fluorescent solvatochromic resin was obtained via Suzuki–Miyaura cross-coupling between 4-iodobenzoic acid immobilized on Wang resin and 5-[4-(N,N-dihexylamino)phenyl]-2-thienylboronic acid N-methyl-iminodiacetic acid (MIDA) ester. The optical waveguide spectrometry studies on the resin showed a strong fluorescent solvatochromism in various organic solvents.
Performance of Graphite and Titanium as Cathode Electrode Materials on Poultry Slaughterhouse Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Meiramkulova Kulyash , Devrishov Davud , Marzanov Nurbiy , Marzanova Saida , Kydyrbekova Aliya , Uryumtseva Tatyana , Tastanova Lyazzat , Mkilima Timoth
Published: October 2020

Despite the potential applicability of the combination between aluminium (anode) and graphite or titanium (cathode) for poultry slaughterhouse wastewater treatment, their technical and economic feasibilities have not been comprehensively captured. In this study, aluminium (anode) and graphite and titanium as cathode electrode materials were investigated and compared in terms of their performance on poultry slaughterhouse wastewater treatment. The wastewater samples collected from the Izhevsk Production Corporative (PC) poultry farm in Kazakhstan were treated using a lab-based electrochemical treatment plant and then analyzed after every 20 and 40 min of the treatment processes. Cost analysis for both electrode combinations was also performed. From the analysis results, the aluminium–graphite electrode combination achieved high removal efficiency from turbidity, color, nitrite, phosphates, and chemical oxygen demand, with removal efficiency ranging from 72% to 98% after 20 min, as well as 88% to 100% after 40 min. A similar phenomenon was also observed from the aluminium–titanium electrode combination, with high removal efficiency achieved from turbidity, color, total suspended solids, nitrite, phosphates, and chemical oxygen demand, ranging from 81% to 100% after 20 min as well as from 91% to 100% after 40 min. This means the treatment performances for both aluminium–graphite and aluminium–titanium electrode combinations were highly affected by the contact time. The general performance in terms of removal efficiency indicates that the aluminium–titanium electrode combination outperformed the aluminium–graphite electrode combination. However, the inert character of the graphite electrode led to a positive impact on the total operating cost. Therefore, the aluminium–graphite electrode combination was observed to be cheaper than the aluminium–titanium electrode combination in terms of the operating cost.
Convenient and Efficient Synthesis of Functionalized 2-Sulfenylindoles
Authors: Doroszuk Justyna , Musiejuk Mateusz , Jędrzejewski Bartosz , Walczak Juliusz , Witt Dariusz
Published: October 2020

A simple, efficient, and practical sulfenylation at the C2 position of N-tosylindoles under mild conditions was developed. The designed transformation is based on the reaction of N-tosylindoles with BuLi and S-alkyl, and S-aryl phosphorodithioates or thiotosylates to produce 2-sulfenylindoles in moderate to high yields. The presence of additional hydroxy, carboxy, or amino functionalities did not disturb the formation of products.
The EFP Formation and Penetration Capability of Double-Layer Shaped Charge with Wave Shaper
Authors: Liu Yakun , Yin Jianping , Wang Zhijun , Zhang Xuepeng , Bi Guangjian
Published: October 2020

Detonation waves will bypass a wave shaper and propagate in the form of a horn wave in shaped charge. Horn waves can reduce the incidence angle of a detonation wave on a liner surface and collide with each other at the charge axis to form overdriven detonation. Detection electronic components of small-caliber terminal sensitive projectile that are limited by space are often placed inside a wave shaper, which will cause the wave shaper to no longer be uniform and dense, and weaken the ability to adjust detonation waves. In this article, we design a double-layer shaped charge (DLSC) with a high-detonation-velocity explosive in the outer layer and low-detonation-velocity explosive in the inner layer. Numerical and experimental simulation are combined to compare and analyze the forming process and penetration performance of explosively formed projectile (EFP) in DLSC and ordinary shaped charge (OSC). The results show that, compared with OSC, DLSC can also adjust and optimize the shape of the detonation wave when the wave shaper performance is poor. DLSC can obtain long rod EFPs with a large length-diameter ratio, which greatly improves the penetration performance of EFP.
Antibacterial and Antifungal Activities of PMMAs Implanted Fluorine and/or Silver Ions by Plasma-Based Ion Implantation with Argon
Authors: Kagami Keiichi , Abe Yoko , Shinonaga Yukari , Imataki Rie , Nishimura Takako , Harada Kyoko , Arita Kenji
Published: October 2020

The purpose of this study was to examine the anti-oral microorganism effects of fluorine and/or silver ions implanted into acrylic resin (PMMA) using plasma-based ion implantation (PBII) with argon gas. The experimental PMMA specimens were implanted with F and Ag ions alone or simultaneously by the PBII method using Ar or Ar/F2 gases and Ag mesh. The surface characteristics were evaluated by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), contact angle measurements, and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Moreover, the antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) and the antifungal activity against Candida albicans (C. albicans) were examined by the adenosine-5’-triphosphate (ATP) emission luminescence method. XPS spectra of the modified specimens revealed peaks due to F in the Ar/F and the Ar/F+Ag groups, and due to Ag in the Ar+Ag and the Ar/F+Ag groups. The water contact angle increased significantly due to the implantation of Ar, F, and Ag. In the AFM observations, the surface roughness of the Ar/F and the Ar/F+Ag groups increased significantly by less than 5 nanometers. The presence of F and Ag was found to inhibit S. mutans growth in the Ar+Ag and the Ar/F+Ag groups. However, this method provided no significant antifungal activity against C. albicans.
Utilization of Carbide Slag by Wet Grinding as an Accelerator in Calcium Sulfoaluminate Cement
Authors: Gu Xianyue , Tan Hongbo , He Xingyang , Smirnova Olga , Zhang Junjie , Luo Zhongtao
Published: October 2020

In this study, wet-ground carbide slag (i.e., WGCS) was utilized as an accelerator in calcium sulfoaluminate cement (CSA) for obtaining considerably faster setting processes for some special engineering processes such as plugging projects and rapid repair engineering. The WGCS–CSA system was designed, in which the replacement ratio of CSA by carbide slag was chosen as 4%, 8% and 12%. The setting time and compressive strength were measured, and the mechanism of the system hydration was studied in detail by means of calorimetry, XRD, thermogravimetry (TG) and SEM. The results showed that WGCS shortened the setting time of cement and significantly augmented the early strength. The addition of 8% of WGCS contributed to increasing the 2-h compressive strength from 4.2 MPa to 32.9 MPa. The decrease in the setting time and the increase in the initial strength were mainly attributed to the high initial pH value of the liquid phase and the high content of calcium ions in WGCS. Both these factors contributed to the ettringite formation and, at the same time, to the transformation of the morphology at a later time. Such results testify that WGCS can be used as an accelerator in the CSA system and also that it provides a novel approach to the reutilization of carbide slag.
Laccase-Enzyme Treated Flax Fibre for Use in Natural Fibre Epoxy Composites
Authors: Brodowsky Hanna M. , Hennig Anne , Müller Michael Thomas , Werner Anett , Zhandarov Serge , Gohs Uwe
Published: October 2020

Natural fibres have a high potential as reinforcement of polymer matrices, as they combine a high specific strength and modulus with sustainable production and reasonable prices. Modifying the fibre surface is a common method to increase the adhesion and thereby enhance the mechanical properties of composites. In this study, a novel sustainable surface treatment is presented: the fungal enzyme laccase was utilised with the aim of covalently binding the coupling agent dopamine to flax fibre surfaces. The goal is to improve the interfacial strength towards an epoxy matrix. SEM and AFM micrographs showed that the modification changes the surface morphology, indicating a deposition of dopamine on the surface. Fibre tensile tests, which were performed to check whether the fibre structure was damaged during the treatment, showed that no decrease in tensile strength or modulus occurred. Single fibre pullout tests showed a 30% increase in interfacial shear strength (IFSS) due to the laccase-mediated bonding of the coupling agent dopamine. These results demonstrate that a laccase + dopamine treatment modifies flax fibres sustainably and increases the interfacial strength towards epoxy.
Concrete Repair Durability
Authors: Czarnecki Lech , Geryło Robert , Kuczyński Krzysztof
Published: October 2020

The repairs of building structures are inevitable and indispensable. Repairs are used to restore or maintain the usability of existing facilities, often contributing to the extension of their expected service life, increasing the sustainability of building resources. Given that conservation rules are observed, repairs are also used to save monuments. The concept of repair durability brings to the foreground the durability of the repaired structure (after repair): what service life has been obtained/recovered as a result of the repair. Based on the available data (limited set), a generalised distribution function of repair durability was developed, with a disappointing course. This, however, applies (necessarily) to the past. Significant progress was shown to have been achieved in the theoretical and technical fundamentals of technical repair measures. In this situation, a prognostic distribution function was also designed for future repairs according to EN 1504. A rule of thumb called estimating concrete repair durability, CRD was proposed. The risk associated with estimating the durability of repairs was indicated. A reason for optimism is that proactive monitoring of the condition of the structure and, consequently, management of the repair strategy allows to reach the designed life of the structure.
Segregation of P and S Impurities to A Σ9 Grain Boundary in Cu
Authors: Lousada Cláudio M. , Korzhavyi Pavel A.
Published: October 2020

The segregation of P and S to grain boundaries (GBs) in fcc Cu has implications in diverse physical-chemical properties of the material and this can be of particular high relevance when the material is employed in high performance applications. Here, we studied the segregation of P and S to the symmetric tilt Σ9 (22¯1¯) [110], 38.9° GB of fcc Cu. This GB is characterized by a variety of segregation sites within and near the GB plane, with considerable differences in both atomic site volume and coordination number and geometry. We found that the segregation energies of P and S vary considerably both with distance from the GB plane and sites within the GB plane. The segregation energy is significantly large at the GB plane but drops to almost zero at a distance of only ≈3.5 Å from this. Additionally, for each impurity there are considerable variations in energy (up to 0.6 eV) between segregation sites in the GB plane. These variations have origins both in differences in coordination number and atomic site volume with the effect of coordination number dominating. For sites with the same coordination number, up to a certain atomic site volume, a larger atomic site volume leads to a stronger segregation. After that limit in volume has been reached, a larger volume leads to weaker segregation. The fact that the segregation energy varies with such magnitude within the Σ9 GB plane may have implications in the accumulation of these impurities at these GBs in the material. Because of this, atomic-scale variations of concentration of P and S are expected to occur at the Σ9 GB center and in other GBs with similar features.
A Statistical Evaluation of the Influence of Different Material and Process Parameters on the Heat Transfer Coefficient in Gravity Die Casting
Authors: Wolff Nino , Zimmermann Golo , Vroomen Uwe , Bührig-Polaczek Andreas
Published: October 2020

Local heat transfer in gravity die casting is of great importance for precision in terms of distortion, mechanical properties, and the quality of the castings due to its effect on solidification. Depending on contact conditions such as liquid melt to solid mold, a gap between mold and component, or contact pressure between casting and mold as a result of shrinkage, there are very large differences in heat transfer. The influences of mold material, mold coating and its influence of aging, mold temperature control, and layout on the heat transfer coefficient (HTC) were investigated experimentally for different contact cases. The experiments were carried out on a rotationally symmetrical experimental setup with modular exchangeable die inserts and cores using an AlSi7Mg0.3 alloy. From the results of the individual test series, the quantitative shares of the above-mentioned influencing variables in the respective effective heat transfer coefficients were determined by means of analysis of variance. From this, the parameters having the most significant influence on the local heat balance were derived.
Extracts from Six Native Plants of the Yucatán Peninsula Hinder Mycelial Growth of Fusarium equiseti and F. oxysporum, Pathogens of Capsicum chinense
Authors: Cruz-Cerino Patricia , Cristóbal-Alejo Jairo , Ruiz-Carrera Violeta , Carnevali Germán , Vera-Ku Marina , Martín Jesús , Reyes Fernando , Gamboa-Angulo Marcela
Published: October 2020

Fusarium equiseti strain FCHE and Fusarium oxysporum strain FCHJ were isolated from the roots of wilting habanero pepper (Capsicum chinense Jacq.) seedlings with root rot. Toward developing a biorational control of these serious phytopathogenic strains, ethanolic (EE) and aqueous (AE) extracts of different vegetative parts of 40 tropical native plants of the Yucatán Peninsula were screened for antifungal activity. Extracts of six out of 40 assayed plants were effective, and the most inhibitory extracts were studied further. EEs from Mosannona depressa (bark from stems and roots), Parathesis cubana (roots), and Piper neesianum (leaves) inhibited mycelial growth of both strains. Each active EE was then partitioned between hexane and acetonitrile. The acetonitrile fraction from M. depressa stem bark (MDT-b) had the lowest minimum inhibitory concentration of 1000 µg/mL against both pathogens and moderate inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 462 against F. equiseti and 472 µg/mL against F. oxysporum. After 96 h treatment with EE from M. depressa stem bark, both strains had distorted hyphae and conidia and collapsed conidia in scanning electron micrographs. Liquid chromatography–ultraviolet–high resolution mass spectrometry analysis revealed that the major component of the fraction was α-asarone. Its antifungal effect was verified using a commercial standard, which had an IC50 of 236 µg/mL against F. equiseti and >500 µg/mL against F. oxysporum. Furthermore, the P. cubana hexane fraction and P. neesianum acetonitrile fraction had antifungal activity against both Fusarium pathogens. These compounds provide new options for biorational products to control phytopathogenic fungi.
Screening of Fish Cell Lines for Piscine Orthoreovirus-1 (PRV-1) Amplification: Identification of the Non-Supportive PRV-1 Invitrome
Authors: Pham Phuc H. , Misk Ehab , Papazotos Fotini , Jones Ginny , Polinski Mark P. , Contador Elena , Russell Spencer , Garver Kyle A. , Lumsden John S. , Bols Niels C.
Published: October 2020

Piscine reovirus (PRV) is the causative agent of heart and skeletal muscle inflammation (HSMI), which is detrimental to Atlantic Salmon (AS) aquaculture, but so far has not been cultivatable, which impedes studying the disease and developing a vaccine. Homogenates of head kidney and red blood cells (RBC) from AS in which PRV-1 had been detected were applied to fish cell lines. The cell lines were from embryos, and from brain, blood, fin, gill, gonads, gut, heart, kidney, liver, skin, and spleen, and had the shapes of endothelial, epithelial, fibroblast, and macrophage cells. Most cell lines were derived from the Neopterygii subclass of fish, but one was from subclass Chondrostei. Cultures were examined by phase contrast microscopy for appearance, and by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) for PRV-1 RNA amplification and for the capacity to transfer any changes to new cultures. No changes in appearance and Ct values were observed consistently or transferable to new cultures. Therefore, 31 cell lines examined were unable to support PRV-1 amplification and are described as belonging to the non-supportive PRV-1 invitrome. However, these investigations and cell lines can contribute to understanding PRV-1 cellular and host tropism, and the interactions between virus-infected and bystander cells.
Enterococcus faecalis Polymicrobial Interactions Facilitate Biofilm Formation, Antibiotic Recalcitrance, and Persistent Colonization of the Catheterized Urinary Tract
Authors: Gaston Jordan R. , Andersen Marissa J. , Johnson Alexandra O. , Bair Kirsten L. , Sullivan Christopher M. , Guterman L. Beryl , White Ashely N. , Brauer Aimee L. , Learman Brian S. , Flores-Mireles Ana L. , Armbruster Chelsie E.
Published: October 2020

Indwelling urinary catheters are common in health care settings and can lead to catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI). Long-term catheterization causes polymicrobial colonization of the catheter and urine, for which the clinical significance is poorly understood. Through prospective assessment of catheter urine colonization, we identified Enterococcus faecalis and Proteus mirabilis as the most prevalent and persistent co-colonizers. Clinical isolates of both species successfully co-colonized in a murine model of CAUTI, and they were observed to co-localize on catheter biofilms during infection. We further demonstrate that P. mirabilis preferentially adheres to E. faecalis during biofilm formation, and that contact-dependent interactions between E. faecalis and P. mirabilis facilitate establishment of a robust biofilm architecture that enhances antimicrobial resistance for both species. E. faecalis may therefore act as a pioneer species on urinary catheters, establishing an ideal surface for persistent colonization by more traditional pathogens such as P. mirabilis.
Recent Formulation Advances and Therapeutic Usefulness of Orally Disintegrating Tablets (ODTs)
Authors: Chinwala Maimoona
Published: October 2020

This review highlights the recent formulation advances (different methods of preparation involving various novel approaches) that have been advancing the use of ODT as a popular dosage form. Furthermore, the important characteristics of ODTs that are required for patient compliance and appropriate therapeutic benefit are discussed. In addition to conventional ODTs, ODTs formulated for controlled release of pharmaceuticals and taste masking are also discussed.
Frequency and Management of Acute Poisoning Among Children Attending an Emergency Department in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Tobaiqy Mansour , Asiri Bandar A. , Sholan Ahmed H. , Alzahrani Yahya A. , Alkatheeri Ayed A. , Mahha Ahmed M. , Alzahrani Shamsia S. , MacLure Katie
Published: October 2020

Background: Acute poisoning is one of the common medical emergencies in children that leads to morbidity and mortality. Medications and chemical agents play a major role in these adverse events resulting in social, economic, and health consequences. Aims of the study: This study aimed to evaluate the frequency and management of acute poisoning among children attending the emergency room at East Jeddah Hospital, Jeddah city, Saudi Arabia. Methods: This study was a retrospective chart review of all acute pediatric poisoning incidences in children (0–16 years of age) from October-21-2016 to March-03-2020 who were attending the emergency department. Data were analyzed via SPSS software. Results: A total of 69 incidences of acute poisoning in children who attended the emergency department at East Jeddah Hospital; males (n = 38, 55.1%). Most children were aged 5 years or younger (n = 41, 59.4%). Unintentional poisoning occurred among 56.5% of observed cases of which 52.2% occurred in children younger than 5 years; 7.20% (n = 5) of patients were 12 to 16 years of age and had deliberate self-poisoning. The association between type of poisoning and age groups was statistically significant (chi-square = 28.5057, p = 0.0001). Most incidences occurred at home (n = 64, 92.8%). Medicines were the most common cause of poisoning (n = 53, 76.8%). An excessive dose of prescribed medicine poisoning accidents was reported in 10.1% cases. Analgesics such as paracetamol were the most documented medication associated with poisoning (39.1%) followed by anticonvulsants and other central nervous system acting medicines (18.8%). The most common route of poisoning was oral ingestion (81.2%). One mortality case was documented. Conclusion: Although not common, accidental and deliberate acute poisoning in children does occur. More can be done to educate parents on safe storage of medicines, household cleaning and other products associated with acute poisoning in children. Likewise, children can be taught more about the risks of poisoning from an early age. As importantly, clinicians need to include more detailed notes in the electronic medical records (EMR) or the system needs to be improved to encourage completeness to more accurately inform the research evidence-base for future service design, health policy and strategy.
Pharmacists’ Perspectives on the Use of My Health Record
Authors: Kosari Sam , Yee Kwang Choon , Mulhall Stephanie , Thomas Jackson , Jackson Shane L. , Peterson Gregory M. , Rudgley Ayla , Walker Iain , Naunton Mark
Published: October 2020

(1) Background: My Health Record (MHR) is a relatively new nationwide Australian digital health record system accessible by patients and a range of healthcare professionals. Pharmacists will be key contributors and users of the MHR system, yet little is known about the perceived barriers and benefits of use. (2) Objective: To explore pharmacists’ perspectives related to potential benefits and barriers associated with use of MHR. (3) Methods: An online survey was developed and face-validated. The survey was advertised to Australian pharmacists on pharmacy professional bodies’ websites. This was a cross-sectional study using an anonymous questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the distribution of the data. Chi-square, Kendall’s tau coefficient (tau-c) and Kruskal–Wallis tests were used to examine the relationships where appropriate. (4) Results: A total of 63 pharmacists completed the survey. The majority of respondents worked in a metropolitan area (74%), and the most common workplace setting was community pharmacy (65%). Perceived benefits identified by responders include that the use of MHR would help with continuity of care (90%), and that it would improve the safety (71%) and quality (75%) of care they provided. Importantly, more than half of pharmacists surveyed agreed that MHR could reduce medication errors during dispensing (57%) and could improve professional relationships with patients (57%) and general practitioners (59%). Potential barriers identified by pharmacists included patients’ concerns about privacy (81%), pharmacists’ own concern about privacy (46%), lack of training, access to and confidence in using the system. Sixty six percent of respondents had concerns about the accuracy of information contained within MHR, particularly among hospital and general practice pharmacists (p = 0.016) and almost half (44%) had concerns about the security of information in the system, mainly pharmacists working at general practice and providing medication review services (p = 0.007). Overall satisfaction with MHR varied, with 48% satisfied, 33% neither satisfied nor dissatisfied, and 19% dissatisfied, with a higher satisfaction rate among younger pharmacists (p = 0.032). (5) Conclusions: Pharmacists considered that the MHR offered key potential benefits, notably improving the safety and quality of care provided. To optimize the use of MHR, there is a need to improve privacy and data security measures, and to ensure adequate provision of user support and education surrounding the ability to integrate use of MHR with existing workflows and software.
Differential Protein Expression in Striatal D1- and D2-Dopamine Receptor-Expressing Medium Spiny Neurons
Authors: Mansuri M. Shahid , Peng Gang , Wilson Rashaun S. , Lam TuKiet T. , Zhao Hongyu , Williams Kenneth R. , Nairn Angus C.
Published: October 2020

Many neurological disorders and diseases including drug addiction are associated with specific neuronal cell types in the brain. The striatum, a region that plays a critically important role in the development of addictive drug-related behavior, provides a good example of the cellular heterogeneity challenges associated with analyses of specific neuronal cell types. Such studies are needed to identify the adaptive changes in neuroproteomic signaling that occur in response to diseases such as addiction. The striatum contains two major cell types, D1 and D2 type dopaminoceptive medium spiny neurons (MSNs), whose cell bodies and processes are intermingled throughout this region. Since little is known about the proteomes of these two neuronal cell populations, we have begun to address this challenge by using fluorescence-activated nuclear sorting (FANS) to isolate nuclei-containing fractions from striatum from D1 and D2 “Translating Ribosome Affinity Purification” (TRAP) mice. This approach enabled us to devise and implement a robust and reproducible workflow for preparing samples from specific MSN cell types for mass spectrometry analyses. These analyses quantified at least 685 proteins in each of four biological replicates of 50 K sorted nuclei from two D1 mice/replicate and from each of four biological replicates of 50 K sorted nuclei from two D2 mice/replicate. Proteome analyses identified 87 proteins that were differentially expressed in D1 versus D2 MSN nuclei and principal component analysis (PCA) of these proteins separated the 8 biological replicates into specific cell types. Central network analysis of the 87 differentially expressed proteins identified Hnrnpd and Hnmpa2b1 in D1 and Cct2 and Cct7 in D2 as potential central interactors. This workflow can now be used to improve our understanding of many neurological diseases including characterizing the short and long-term impact of drugs of abuse on the proteomes of these two dopaminoceptive neuronal populations.