bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Levered-Beta and Cost of Capital Sensitivities: An Experimental Investigation in Capital Structure
Authors: Topyan Kudret
Published: April 2021

Using US firms with over $5b market cap, this paper tests the impact of levered beta on the firm’s market value and optimal capital structure. Using the synthetic rating method in a recursive model, the paper shows the current and optimal weighted average cost of capital sensitivities as the firm’s market risk measured by beta changes. The paper shows that the change in the value of beta due to alternative leverage levels or other risk factors will alter the cost of capital insignificantly and has no impact on the optimal capital structure due to those firms’ extra-strong bond ratings. As a side-benefit of the synthetic rating method, one may also observe the market-level variables’ impacts on the cost of capital computations and the optimal debt ratio. The paper uses Disney Corporation to show how the synthetic rating methodology helps to disclose the sensitivities of hypothetical alternative leverages.
The Emergence of Lotus Farming as an Innovation for Adapting to Climate Change in the Upper Vietnamese Mekong Delta
Authors: Vo Hoang Thi Minh , van Halsema Gerardo , Hellegers Petra , Wyatt Andrew , Nguyen Quan Hong
Published: April 2021

Climate change poses an acute threat to the Vietnamese Mekong Delta (VMD). To respond to this threat, the structure of the delta’s agriculture-based economy must transform, becoming more adaptive to changing conditions. One adaptive livelihood option is the use of flood-based farming systems in the upper VMD. The present study examines local perceptions of such a system in Dong Thap Province, a lowland, flood-affected area of the upper VMD. Specifically, we explored lotus farming as a potential flood-based adaptive livelihood model for the region. The study advances the current literature by using historical research, embedded in narrative analysis applying the social construction of technology (SCOT) lens. We collected data through in-depth interviews and field surveys to qualitatively analyze the emergence and status of lotus cultivation in the study area, zooming in on how local society evolved with expansion of this farming model. The findings suggest that as an innovative idea, lotus farming initially emerged due to unfavorable natural conditions, and then was developed as an attractive nature-based livelihood, and thus received increased attention. It has been accepted and modified over time according to the new interests of further stepped-in stakeholders. Our findings echo the social construction of technology perspective as we found lotus farming to be a technological artifact that did not develop on its own, by was driven by different interpretations and re-negotiation process. This made more room for stakeholders to shape and reshape it in a way that fits their interests.
Effects of Deforestation over the Cerrado Landscape: A Study in the Bahia Frontier
Authors: Assis Tainá Oliveira , Escada Maria Isabel Sobral , Amaral Silvana
Published: April 2021

The losses in the Brazilian Cerrado raise the need to understand the border regions between human activities and Cerrado remnants. This work aims to answer the questions: How does the landscape change in a deforestation area in the Brazilian Cerrado, and where do the losses of native Cerrado occur in the landscape context? We chose the Cerrado of Bahia, an area of the agricultural frontier, and used landscape metrics, and land use and land cover data from 2013 and 2020, to quantify the changes in the landscape. We built a typology of landscape patterns to classify and characterize the Cerrado landscapes, based on the landscape metrics, and land use and land cover data from TerraClass Cerrado 2013. From these parameters, a decision tree classifier enabled the classification of the landscape types. Then, we used the yearly deforestation data from PRODES Cerrado to obtain the native cover and the landscape metrics for 2020. The predominant landscape in 2013 was the Intermediate Stage of Fragmentation (32.53%), followed by the Initial Stage of Fragmentation (31.26%), Consolidated Pasture (16.4%), Consolidated Agriculture (9.78%), Mixed Landscapes (5.59%) and Native Cerrado (4.70%). The continuous Cerrado borders on areas in an initial and intermediate stage of fragmentation, putting pressure on the native area. The losses in native cover do not occur in consolidated landscapes or inside the continuous Cerrado. Instead, there is a process of vegetation conversion over the landscapes in the initial and intermediate stages of fragmentation, and landscapes where the matrix is heterogeneous. These factors signal the need to preserve the contiguous fragments of Cerrado.
Towards Sustainable Urbanization. Learning from What’s Out There
Authors: Solly Alys , Berisha Erblin , Cotella Giancarlo
Published: April 2021

The incremental recognition of the importance of land as a finite resource has led to the adoption and implementation of an increasing number of sustainable land use practices in European cities and regions. This paper reflects on these experiences, building on the evidence collected in the framework of the ESPON SUPER pan-European research project. In particular, the authors look at the project’s database, which includes 235 examples of sustainable urbanization interventions gathered from all around Europe. In doing so, they reflect on the outcomes of these interventions, focusing on both their scope and objectives and the types of instruments that were adopted in their implementation. The objective of this contribution is to critically analyze the rich set of practices collected throughout the project and to provide guidance for decision and policy makers aiming at promoting a more sustainable use of land. In this light, it suggests a number of recommendations and warnings, bearing in mind that no “right instruments” or “right targets” exist that could prove successful for all European cities and regions.
An Integrated Economic, Environmental and Social Approach to Agricultural Land-Use Planning
Authors: Shahpari Sahar , Allison Janelle , Harrison Matthew , Stanley Roger
Published: April 2021

Agricultural land-use change is a dynamic process that varies as a function of social, economic and environmental factors spanning from the local to the global scale. The cumulative regional impacts of these factors on land use adoption decisions by farmers are neither well accounted for nor reflected in agricultural land use planning. We present an innovative spatially explicit agent-based modelling approach (Crop GIS-ABM) that accounts for factors involved in farmer decision making on new irrigation adoption to enable land-use predictions and exploration. The model was designed using a participatory approach, capturing stakeholder insights in a conceptual model of farmer decisions. We demonstrate a case study of the factors influencing the uptake of new irrigation infrastructure and land use in Tasmania, Australia. The model demonstrates how irrigated land-use expansion promotes the diffusion of alternative crops in the region, as well as how coupled social, biophysical and environmental conditions play an important role in crop selection. Our study shows that agricultural land use reflected the evolution of multiple simultaneous interacting biophysical and socio-economic drivers, including soil and climate type, crop and commodity prices, and the accumulated effects of interactive decisions of farmers.
Assessments of Process Parameters on Cutting Force and Surface Roughness during Drilling of AA7075/TiB2 In Situ Composite
Authors: Parasuraman S. , Elamvazuthi I. , Kanagaraj G. , Natarajan Elango , Pugazhenthi A.
Published: April 2021

Reinforced aluminum composites are the basic class of materials for aviation and transport industries. The machinability of these composites is still an issue due to the presence of hard fillers. The current research is aimed to investigate the drilling topographies of AA7075/TiB2 composites. The samples were prepared with 0, 3, 6, 9 and 12 wt.% of fillers and experiments were conducted by varying the cutting speed, feed, depth of cut and tool nose radius. The machining forces and surface topographies, the structure of the cutting tool and chip patterns were examined. The maximum cutting force was recorded upon increase in cutting speed because of thermal softening, loss of strength discontinuity and reduction of the built-up-edge. The increased plastic deformation with higher cutting speed resulted in the excess metal chip. In addition, the increase in cutting speed improved the surface roughness due to decrease in material movement. The cutting force was decreased upon high loading of TiB2 due to the deterioration of chips caused by fillers. Further introduction of TiB2 particles above 12 wt.% weakened the composite; however, due to the impact of the microcutting action of the fillers, the surface roughness was improved.
Multilayered Porous Titanium-Based 3rd Generation Biomaterial Designed for Endosseous Implants
Authors: Dindelegan George Calin , Caziuc Alexandra , Brie Ioana , Soritau Olga , Dindelegan Maximilian George , Bintintan Vasile , Pascalau Violeta , Mihu Carmen , Popa Catalin
Published: April 2021

This work proposes a novel complex multi-layered material consisting of porous titanium as a substrate and a complex coating consisting of a chitosan film engulfing microsphere loaded with growth factors such as BMP2 (bone morphogenic protein 2) and IGF1 (insulin-like growth factor-1). The microspheres were obtained through deposition of dual layers of calcium cross linked pectin–chitosan/pectin polyelectrolyte onto a BSA (bovine serum albumin) gel core. The multilayer was conceived to behave like a 3rd generation biomaterial, by slow delivery of viable growth factors around implants, and to assist the healing of implantation wound and the development of new vital bone. The biologic effect of the delivery of growth factors was studied in vitro, on MSC-CD1 mesenchymal stem cells, and in vivo, on CD1 mice. Proliferation and differentiation of cells were accelerated by growth factors, especially IGF1 for proliferation and BMP2 for differentiation. In vivo tests analyzed histologically and by MicroCT show a more structured tissue around BMP2 samples. The present concept will give the best clinical results if both growth factors are delivered together by a coating film that contains a double population of microcarriers.
Preparation and Tribological Properties of Modified MoS2/SiC/Epoxy Composites
Authors: Liu Cheng , Li Meijuan , Shen Qiang , Chen Haikun
Published: April 2021

In order to improve the tribological properties of epoxy (EP), EP composites were prepared by filling different proportions of silicon carbide (SiC) particles and molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) powder. SiC and MoS2 particle surfaces were modified by the silane coupling agent KH560 to improve dispersion and avoid agglomeration of the inorganic particles in the EP resin matrix. The effect of different proportions of modified MoS2 content on the tribological properties of SiC/EP composites, and the wear mechanism of the worn surface, were investigated when the filler content was fixed at 55 wt.%. The results indicate that the friction and wear properties of modified MoS2/SiC/EP composites are better than SiC/EP composites without modified MoS2. When the modified MoS2 content is 4 wt.%, the average friction coefficient and volume wear rate of the modified MoS2/SiC/EP composite are 0.447 and 14.39 × 10−5 mm3/N·m, respectively, which is reduced by 10.06% and 52.13% in comparison with that of the 55 wt.% SiC/EP composite. Furthermore, the average friction coefficient of a composite containing 4 wt.% MoS2 is 16.14% lower, and the volume wear rate is 92.84% lower than that of pure EP.
Experimental Study of Tensile Properties of Styrene–Butadiene–Styrene Modified Asphalt Binders
Authors: Mieczkowski Paweł , Budziński Bartosz , Słowik Mieczysław , Kempa Jan , Sorociak Wojciech
Published: April 2021

The requirements imposed on road pavements are ever increasing nowadays, necessitating the improvement of the properties of paving materials. The most commonly used paving materials include bituminous mixtures that are composed of aggregate grains bound by a bituminous binder. The properties of bitumens can be improved by modification with polymers. Among the copolymers used for modifying bitumens, styrene–butadiene–styrene, a thermoplastic elastomer, is the most commonly used. This article presents the results of tests conducted on bitumens modified with two types of styrene–butadiene–styrene copolymer (linear and radial). Two bitumen types of different penetration grades (35/50 and 160/220) were used in the experiments. The content of styrene–butadiene–styrene added to the bitumen varied between 1% and 6%. The results of the force ductility test showed that cohesion energy can be used for qualitative evaluation of the efficiency of modification of bitumen with styrene–butadiene–styrene copolymer. The determined values of the cohesion energy were subjected to the original analysis taking into account the three characteristic elongation zones of the tested binders. The performed analyses made it possible to find a parameter whose values correlate significantly with the content of styrene–butadiene–styrene copolymer in the modified bitumen. With smaller amounts of added modifier (approximately 2%), slightly better effects were obtained in the case of linear copolymer styrene–butadiene–styrene and for larger amounts of modifier (5–6%) radial copolymer styrene–butadiene–styrene was found to be more effective. This is confirmed by the changes in the binder structure, as indicated by the penetration index (PI).
Positive Solutions for a System of Coupled Semipositone Fractional Boundary Value Problems with Sequential Fractional Derivatives
Authors: Henderson Johnny , Luca Rodica , Tudorache Alexandru
Published: April 2021

We study the existence and multiplicity of positive solutions for a system of Riemann–Liouville fractional differential equations with sequential derivatives, positive parameters and sign-changing singular nonlinearities, subject to nonlocal coupled boundary conditions which contain Riemann–Stieltjes integrals and various fractional derivatives. In the proof of our main existence results we use the nonlinear alternative of Leray–Schauder type and the Guo–Krasnosel’skii fixed point theorem.
Computational Mathematics and Neural Systems
Authors: Tomasiello Stefania , Pinto Carla M.A. , Stamova Ivanka
Published: April 2021

This special issue was conceived to explore the latest advancements in the field of computational techniques for solving forward and inverse problems [...]
Strong Time-Consistent Solution for Cooperative Differential Games with Network Structure
Authors: Tur Anna , Petrosyan Leon
Published: April 2021

One class of cooperative differential games on networks is considered. It is assumed that interaction on the network is possible not only between neighboring players, but also between players connected by paths. Various cooperative optimality principles and their properties for such games are investigated. The construction of the characteristic function is proposed, taking into account the network structure of the game and the ability of players to cut off connections. The conditions under which a strong time-consistent subcore is not empty are studied. The formula for explicit calculation of the Shapley value is derived. The results are illustrated by the example of one differential marketing game.
A Lie Group-Based Iterative Algorithm Framework for Numerically Solving Forward Kinematics of Gough–Stewart Platform
Authors: Xie Binhai , Dai Shuling , Liu Feng
Published: April 2021

In this work, we began to take forward kinematics of the Gough–Stewart (G-S) platform as an unconstrained optimization problem on the Lie group-structured manifold SE(3) instead of simply relaxing its intrinsic orthogonal constraint when algorithms are updated on six-dimensional local flat Euclidean space or adding extra unit norm constraint when orientation parts are parametrized by a unit quaternion. With this thought in mind, we construct two kinds of iterative problem-solving algorithms (Gauss–Newton (G-N) and Levenberg–Marquardt (L-M)) with mathematical tools from the Lie group and Lie algebra. Finally, a case study for a general G-S platform was carried out to compare these two kinds of algorithms on SE(3) with corresponding algorithms that updated on six-dimensional flat Euclidean space or seven-dimensional quaternion-based parametrization Euclidean space. Experiment results demonstrate that those algorithms on SE(3) behave better than others in convergence performance especially when the initial guess selection is near to branch solutions.
High-Speed Interval Type-2 Fuzzy Systems for Dynamic Parameter Adaptation in Harmony Search for Optimal Design of Fuzzy Controllers
Authors: Castillo Oscar , Valdez Fevrier , Peraza Cinthia , Yoon Jin Hee , Geem Zong Woo
Published: April 2021

Fuzzy systems have become a good solution to the problem of fixed parameters in metaheuristic algorithms, proving their efficiency when performing dynamic parameter adaptations using type-1 and type-2 fuzzy logic. However, the computational cost of type-2 fuzzy systems when using the continuous enhanced Karnik–Mendel (CKM) algorithm for type-reduction, when applied to control and optimization, is too high. Therefore, it is proposed to use an approximation to the CKM algorithm in the type-2 fuzzy system for adjusting the pitch adjustment rate (PArate) parameter in the original harmony search algorithm (HS). The main contribution of this article is to verify that the implementation of the proposed methodology achieves results that are equivalent to the interval type-2 fuzzy system with the CKM algorithm, but in less computing time and also allowing an efficient dynamic parameter adaptation. It is noteworthy that this method is relatively new in the area of metaheuristics algorithms so there is a current interest to work with this methodology. The proposed method was used in optimizing the antecedents and consequents for an interval type-2 fuzzy controller of direct current motor. Experimental results without noise and then with uniform random noise numbers (Gaussian noise) in the controller were obtained to verify that the implementation is efficient when compared to conventional and other existing methods.
A Control Method for IPMSM Based on Active Disturbance Rejection Control and Model Predictive Control
Authors: Liu Fang , Li Haotian , Liu Ling , Zou Runmin , Liu Kangzhi
Published: April 2021

In this paper, the speed tracking problem of the interior permanent magnet synchronous motor (IPMSM) of an electric vehicle is studied. A cascade speed control strategy based on active disturbance rejection control (ADRC) and a current control strategy based on improved duty cycle finite control set model predictive control (FCSMPC) are proposed, both of which can reduce torque ripple and current ripple as well as the computational burden. First of all, in the linearization process, some nonlinear terms are added into the control signal for voltage compensation, which can reduce the order of the prediction model. Then, the dq-axis currents are selected by maximum torque per ampere (MTPA). Six virtual vectors are employed to FCSMPC, and a novel way to calculate the duty cycle is adopted. Finally, the simulation results show the validity and superiority of the proposed method.
Time-Decay Estimates for Linearized Two-Phase Navier–Stokes Equations with Surface Tension and Gravity
Authors: Saito Hirokazu
Published: April 2021

The aim of this paper is to show time-decay estimates of solutions to linearized two-phase Navier-Stokes equations with surface tension and gravity. The original two-phase Navier-Stokes equations describe the two-phase incompressible viscous flow with a sharp interface that is close to the hyperplane xN=0 in the N-dimensional Euclidean space, N≥2. It is well-known that the Rayleigh–Taylor instability occurs when the upper fluid is heavier than the lower one, while this paper assumes that the lower fluid is heavier than the upper one and proves time-decay estimates of Lp-Lq type for the linearized equations. Our approach is based on solution formulas for a resolvent problem associated with the linearized equations.
New Robust Cross-Variogram Estimators and Approximations of Their Distributions Based on Saddlepoint Techniques
Authors: García-Pérez Alfonso
Published: April 2021

Let Z(s)=(Z1(s),…,Zp(s))t be an isotropic second-order stationary multivariate spatial process. We measure the statistical association between the p random components of Z with the correlation coefficients and measure the spatial dependence with variograms. If two of the Z components are correlated, the spatial information provided by one of them can improve the information of the other. To capture this association, both within components of Z(s) and across s, we use a cross-variogram. Only two robust cross-variogram estimators have been proposed in the literature, both by Lark, and their sample distributions were not obtained. In this paper, we propose new robust cross-variogram estimators, following the location estimation method instead of the scale estimation one considered by Lark, thus extending the results obtained by García-Pérez to the multivariate case. We also obtain accurate approximations for their sample distributions using saddlepoint techniques and assuming a multivariate-scale contaminated normal model. The question of the independence of the transformed variables to avoid the usual dependence of spatial observations is also considered in the paper, linking it with the acceptance of linear variograms and cross-variograms.
Adaptive State-Quantized Control of Uncertain Lower-Triangular Nonlinear Systems with Input Delay
Authors: Yoo Sung Jin
Published: April 2021

In this paper, we investigate the adaptive state-quantized control problem of uncertain lower-triangular systems with input delay. It is assumed that all state variables are quantized for the feedback control design. The error transformation method using an auxiliary time-varying signal is presented to deal with the compensation problem of input delay. Based on the error surfaces with the auxiliary variable, a neural-network-based adaptive state-quantized control scheme is constructed with the design of the input delay compensator. Different from existing results in the literature, the proposed method exhibits the following features: (i) compensating for the input delay effect by using quantized states; and (ii) establishing the stability of the adaptive quantized feedback control system in the presence of input delay. Furthermore, the boundedness of all the signals in the closed-loop and the convergence of the tracking error are analyzed. The effectiveness of the developed control strategy is demonstrated through the simulation on a hydraulic servo system.
Optimization of the ANNs Predictive Capability Using the Taguchi Approach: A Case Study
Authors: Manni Andrea , Saviano Giovanna , Bonelli Maria Grazia
Published: April 2021

Artificial neural networks (ANNs) are a valid alternative predictive method to the traditional statistical techniques currently used in many research fields where a massive amount of data is challenging to manage. In environmental analysis, ANNs can analyze pollution sources in large areas, estimating difficult and expensive to detect contaminants from other easily measurable pollutants, especially for screening procedures. In this study, organic micropollutants have been predicted from heavy metals concentration using ANNs. Sampling was performed in an agricultural field where organic and inorganic contaminants concentrations are beyond the legal limits. A critical problem of a neural network design is to select its parametric topology, which can prejudice the reliability of the model. Therefore, it is very important to assess the performance of ANNs when applying different types of parameters of the net. In this work, based on Taguchi L12 orthogonal array, turning experiments were conducted to identify the best parametric set of an ANNs design, considering different combinations of sample number, scaling, training rate, activation functions, number of hidden layers, and epochs. The composite desirability value for the multi-response variables has been obtained through the desirability function analysis (DFA). The parameters’ optimum levels have been identified using this methodology.
A Hybrid Metaheuristic for the Unrelated Parallel Machine Scheduling Problem
Authors: Lin Dung-Ying , Huang Tzu-Yun
Published: April 2021

The unrelated parallel machine scheduling problem aims to assign jobs to independent machines with sequence-dependent setup times so that the makespan is minimized. When many practical considerations are introduced, solving the resulting problem is challenging, especially when problems of realistic sizes are of interest. In this study, in addition to the conventional objective of minimizing the makespan, we further consider the burn-in (B/I) procedure that is required in practice; we need to ensure that the scheduling results satisfy the B/I ratio constrained by the equipment. To solve the resulting complicated problem, we propose a population-based simulated annealing algorithm embedded with a variable neighborhood descent technique. Empirical results show that the proposed solution strategy outperforms a commonly used commercial optimization package; it can obtain schedules that are better than the schedules used in practice, and it does so in a more efficient manner.
Modelling an Industrial Robot and Its Impact on Productivity
Authors: Llopis-Albert Carlos , Rubio Francisco , Valero Francisco
Published: April 2021

This research aims to design an efficient algorithm leading to an improvement of productivity by posing a multi-objective optimization, in which both the time consumed to carry out scheduled tasks and the associated costs of the autonomous industrial system are minimized. The algorithm proposed models the kinematics and dynamics of the industrial robot, provides collision-free trajectories, allows to constrain the energy consumed and meets the physical characteristics of the robot (i.e., restriction on torque, jerks and power in all driving motors). Additionally, the trajectory tracking accuracy is improved using an adaptive fuzzy sliding mode control (AFSMC), which allows compensating for parametric uncertainties, bounded external disturbances and constraint uncertainties. Therefore, the system stability and robustness are enhanced; thus, overcoming some of the limitations of the traditional proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controllers. The trade-offs among the economic issues related to the assembly line and the optimal time trajectory of the desired motion are analyzed using Pareto fronts. The technique is tested in different examples for a six-degrees-of-freedom (DOF) robot system. Results have proved how the use of this methodology enhances the performance and reliability of assembly lines.
Differences between Portuguese and Brazilian Patients with Fibromyalgia Syndrome: Exploring the Associations across Age, Time of Diagnosis, and Fatigue-Related Symptoms
Authors: Alvarez Marcos C. , Albuquerque Maria Luiza L. , Neiva Henrique P. , Cid Luis , Rodrigues Filipe , Teixeira Diogo S. , Monteiro Diogo
Published: April 2021

Background and Objectives: The current literature demonstrates that different cultures have different perceptions of the symptoms of Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FM). The aim of the study was to explore the differences between Brazilian and Portuguese patients with FM in their fatigue experience and to measure the differences in the perception of fatigue according to age and duration of diagnosis. Materials and Methods: In total, 209 Portuguese women aged between 21 and 75 years old (M = 47.44; SD = 10.73) and 429 Brazilian women aged between 18 and 77 years old (M = 46.51; SD = 9.24) were recruited to participate in the present study. Participants filled out the items in the Multidimensional Daily Fatigue-Fibromyalgia-17 Diary (MDF-Fibro-17), a specific tool to measure the level of five components of FM-related fatigue. Results: The results showed a greater perception of all of the components of fatigue in the Brazilian sample. No significant differences were found related to the age and duration of FM diagnosis. Conclusions: Overall, there are significant differences in fatigue symptoms between Portuguese and Brazilian women with FM, suggesting that cultural and geographical differences should be considered when describing fatigue-related symptoms in women with FM.
Effects of the Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation Technique on Scapula Function in Office Workers with Scapula Dyskinesis
Authors: Hwang Myeungsik , Lee Sangbin , Lim Chaegil
Published: April 2021

Background and Objectives; Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) are effective in improving and maintaining Range of motion(ROM), increasing muscular strength and power, and increasing athletic performance, especially after exercise. The scapula patterns defined in PNF are activated within the upper extremity patterns and scapula motions together. Proper function of the upper extremities requires both motion and stability of the scapula. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of scapula stabilization exercise training involving muscle strengthening, muscle balance, and movement control exercises on office workers with scapula dysfunction. Materials and Methods: A total of 42 office workers with scapula dyskinesis were recruited and randomly divided into three groups: muscle strengthening exercise group (n = 14), muscle balance exercise group (n = 14), and movement control exercise group (n = 14). The participants underwent 18 sessions (25 min/session, 3 days a week for 6 weeks) of training involving the three types of exercises. Results: The measurement outcomes included the scapula index, measured using a digital Vernier caliper; scapula function, evaluated using the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) outcome questionnaire (pain and performing, work ability, and sports and art activities); and scapulohumeral movements (scapula upward rotation at humeral abduction angles of 0°, 45°, 90°, 135°, and 180°), evaluated using inclinometers. After the exercise intervention, the scapula index (p = 0.002), DASH pain and performing score (p = 0.000), DASH work ability score (p = 0.000), DASH sports and art activity score (p = 0.027), and scapulohumeral movements (scapula upward rotation at 0° (p = 0.013) and 45° (p = 0.043) humeral abduction) showed significantly greater improvements in the movement control group than in the muscle strengthening and muscle balance groups. Conclusions: Thus, proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation can be used as a rehabilitation intervention for scapula position and movement, pain reduction, and functional improvement in office workers with scapula dyskinesis.
Human Allogeneic Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapy for Cerebellar Ataxia: A Case Report
Authors: Ko Pan-Woo , Park Sangmin , Kang Kyunghun , Lim Yong-Hyun , Kim Sang , Suk Kyoungho , Kim Kyung , Lee Ho-Won
Published: April 2021

To date, there is no curable treatment option for non-hereditary degenerative cerebellar ataxia. Here we report the case of a patient with sporadic adult-onset ataxia (SAOA) who underwent allogeneic bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy via the intrathecal route. A 60-year-old male patient visited our clinic complaining of progressive gait disturbance that commenced two years ago. Upon neurologic examination, the patient exhibited limb dysmetria and gait ataxia. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed cerebellar atrophy whereas the autonomic function test was normal. The patient was diagnosed with SAOA. The medications that were initially prescribed had no significant effects on the course of this disease and the symptoms deteriorated progressively. At the age of 64, the patient was treated with allogeneic bone marrow-derived MSC therapy. The subsequent K-SARA (Korean version of the Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia) scores demonstrated a distinct improvement up until 10 months post-administration. No adverse events were reported. The improved post-treatment K-SARA scores may suggest that the MSC therapy can have a neuroprotective effect and that stem cell therapy may serve as a potential therapeutic option for degenerative cerebellar ataxia.
Functional and Phylogenetic Diversity of BSH and PVA Enzymes
Authors: Daly Jack W. , Keely Stephen J. , Gahan Cormac G. M.
Published: April 2021

Bile salt hydrolase (BSH) and penicillin V acylase (PVA) are related enzymes that are classified as choloylglycine hydrolases (CGH). BSH enzymes have attracted significant interest for their ability to modulate the composition of the bile acid pool, alter bile acid signaling events mediated by the host bile acid receptors FXR and TGR5 and influence cholesterol homeostasis in the host, while PVA enzymes have been widely utilised in an industrial capacity in the production of semi-synthetic antibiotics. The similarities between BSH and PVA enzymes suggest common evolution of these enzymes and shared mechanisms for substrate binding and catalysis. Here, we compare BSH and PVA through analysis of the distribution, phylogeny and biochemistry of these microbial enzymes. The development of new annotation approaches based upon functional enzyme analyses and the potential implications of BSH enzymes for host health are discussed.
Evaluation of a New Spike (S)-Protein-Based Commercial Immunoassay for the Detection of Anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG
Authors: Eberhardt Kirsten Alexandra , Dewald Felix , Heger Eva , Gieselmann Lutz , Vanshylla Kanika , Wirtz Maike , Kleipass Franziska , Johannis Wibke , Schommers Philipp , Gruell Henning , Brensing Karl August , Müller Roman-Ulrich , Augustin Max , Lehmann Clara , Koch Manuel , Klein Florian , Di Cristanziano Veronica
Published: April 2021

Background: The investigation of the antibody response to SARS-CoV-2 represents a key aspect in facing the COVID-19 pandemic. In the present study, we compared the new Immundiagnostik IDK® anti-SARS-CoV-2 S1 IgG assay with four widely-used commercial serological assays for the detection of antibodies targeting S (spike) and NC (nucleocapsid) proteins. Methods: Serum samples were taken from an unbiased group of convalescent patients and from a negative control group. Sample were simultaneously analyzed by the new Immundiagnostik IDK® anti-SARS-CoV-2 S1 IgG assay, by the DiaSorin LIAISON® SARS-CoV-2 S1/S2 IgG assay, and by the Euroimmun anti-SARS-CoV-2 S1 IgG ELISA. Antibodies binding NC were detected by the Abbott SARS-CoV-2 IgG assay and by the pan-immunoglobulin immunoassay Roche Elecsys® anti-SARS-CoV-2. Moreover, we investigated samples of a group of COVID-19 convalescent subjects that were primarily tested S1 IgG non-reactive. Samples were also tested by live virus and pseudovirus neutralization tests. Results: Overall, the IDK® anti-SARS-CoV-2 S1 IgG assay showed the highest sensitivity among the evaluated spike (S) protein-based assays. Additionally, the Immundiagnostik assay correlated well with serum-neutralizing activity. Conclusions: The novel IDK® anti-SARS-CoV-2 S1 IgG assay showed high sensitivity and specificity, representing a valid option for use in the routine diagnostic.
Repurposing Drugs for Mayaro Virus: Identification of EIDD-1931, Favipiravir and Suramin as Mayaro Virus Inhibitors
Authors: Langendries Lana , Abdelnabi Rana , Neyts Johan , Delang Leen
Published: April 2021

Despite the emerging threat of the Mayaro virus (MAYV) in Central and South-America, there are no licensed antivirals or vaccines available for this neglected mosquito-borne virus. Here, we optimized a robust antiviral assay based on the inhibition of the cytopathogenic effect that could be used for high-throughput screening to identify MAYV inhibitors. We first evaluated different cell lines and virus inputs to determine the best conditions for a reliable and reproducible antiviral assay. Next, we used this assay to evaluate a panel of antiviral compounds with known activity against other arboviruses. Only three drugs were identified as inhibitors of MAYV: β-D-N4-hydroxycytidine (EIDD-1931), favipiravir and suramin. The in vitro anti-MAYV activity of these antiviral compounds was further confirmed in a virus yield assay. These antivirals can therefore serve as reference compounds for future anti-MAYV compound testing. In addition, it is of interest to further explore the activity of EIDD-1931 and its orally bioavailable pro-drug molnupiravir in animal infection models to determine whether it offers promise for the treatment of MAYV infection.
Assessment of Soil Contamination by Gas Cloud Generated from Chemical Fire Using Metabolic Profiling and Associated Bacterial Communities
Authors: Jo Jungman , Ahn Yongtae , Pandi Kalimuthu , Pyo Heesoo , Kim Naeun , Yun Seong-Taek , Kim Minseok , Lee Jeongae , Choi Jaeyoung
Published: April 2021

Chemical accidents have frequently occurred in South Korea as a result of the huge amount of chemicals being used in various industries. Even though fire accidents accounted for 71.9% of chemical accidents during 2008–2018 in South Korea, most ecological research and investigation has focused on leakage accidents since most fire or explosion gases are diffused out and disappear into the atmosphere. In this study, the possibility of soil contamination by toluene combustion is proposed. A fire simulation batch test was performed and identified the combustion by-products such as methylbenzene, ethylbenzene, ethynylbenzene, benzaldehyde, 1-phenyl-1-propyne, naphthalene, 2-methylindene using gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC–MS). Naphthyl-2-methyl-succinic acid, a metabolic intermediate of naphthalene metabolism derived from the combustion product of toluene, was also discovered in field soil and the secondary metabolites such as streptomycin 6-phosphate, 3-Nitroacrylate, oxaloacetate using LC–MS. Moreover, Streptomyces scabiei, participating in naphthalene metabolism, was also discovered in filed soil (contaminated soil) using 16s rRNA sequencing. As a result, bacterial stress responses in field soil (contaminated soil) affected by gas cloud were identified by discovering metabolites relating to bacterial self-defense action such as fatty biosynthesis. This study draws a conclusion that soil can be polluted enough to affect bacteria by gas cloud and soil bacteria and can encounter stress for a long term even though toluene and its combustion products had already decomposed in soil.
Implications of Fagopyrin Formation In Vitro by UV Spectroscopic Analysis
Authors: Kosyan Anatolij , Sytar Oksana
Published: April 2021

The present work aims at studying the possible biosynthesis of fagopyrin in buckwheat plants with an attempt to address the existing gaps. The developed method of differential spectrophotometry can be used for identification of naphthodianthrones fagopyrins. It was found that in the vegetative mass of buckwheat plants, fagopyrin precursor-2-(piperidine-2-yl)-emodindianthron could be present. As fagopyrin can be produced by light effect, the temperature factor may influence the formation of protofagopyrin in vitro. An optimum temperature range was estimated for protofagopyrin formation. A possible fagopyrin biosynthesis under in vitro conditions was suggested.
Functional Characterization of an Anthocyanin Dimalonyltransferase in Maize
Authors: Paulsmeyer Michael , Juvik John
Published: April 2021

Anthocyanins are pigments with appealing hues that are currently being used as sources of natural colorants. The interaction of acylation on the stability of anthocyanin molecules has long been known. Maize is an abundant source of malonylglucoside and dimalonylglucoside anthocyanins. The enzyme Aat1 is an anthocyanin acyltransferase known to synthesize the majority of acylated anthocyanins in maize. In this paper, we characterize the substrate specificity and reaction kinetics of Aat1. It was found that Aat1 has anthocyanin 3-O-glucoside dimalonyltransferase activity and is only the second enzyme of this type characterized to this date. Our results indicate that Aat1 can utilize malonyl-CoA; succinyl-CoA and every anthocyanin 3-O-glucoside tested. Results of this study provide insight into the structure–function relations of dimalonyltransferases and give a unique insight into the activity of monocot anthocyanin acyltransferases.
Spreading and Drying Dynamics of Water Drop on Hot Surface of Superwicking Ti-6Al-4V Alloy Material Fabricated by Femtosecond Laser
Authors: Fang Ranran , Li Zekai , Zhang Xianhang , Zhu Xiaohui , Zhang Hanlin , Li Junchang , Pan Zhonglin , Huang Zhiyu , Yang Chen , Zheng Jiangen , Yan Wensheng , Huang Yi , Maisotsenko Valeriy S. , Vorobyev Anatoliy Y.
Published: April 2021

A superwicking Ti-6Al-4V alloy material with a hierarchical capillary surface structure was fabricated using femtosecond laser. The basic capillary surface structure is an array of micropillars/microholes. For enhancing its capillary action, the surface of the micropillars/microholes is additionally structured by regular fine microgrooves using a technique of laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS), providing an extremely strong capillary action in a temperature range between 23 °C and 80 °C. Due to strong capillary action, a water drop quickly spreads in the wicking surface structure and forms a thin film over a large surface area, resulting in fast evaporation. The maximum water flow velocity after the acceleration stage is found to be 225–250 mm/s. In contrast to other metallic materials with surface capillarity produced by laser processing, the wicking performance of which quickly degrades with time, the wicking functionality of the material created here is long-lasting. Strong and long-lasting wicking properties make the created material suitable for a large variety of practical applications based on liquid-vapor phase change. Potential significant energy savings in air-conditioning and cooling data centers due to application of the material created here can contribute to mitigation of global warming.
Minimally Invasive Autopsy Practice in COVID-19 Cases: Biosafety and Findings
Authors: Rakislova Natalia , Marimon Lorena , Ismail Mamudo R. , Carrilho Carla , Fernandes Fabiola , Ferrando Melania , Castillo Paola , Rodrigo-Calvo Maria Teresa , Guerrero José , Ortiz Estrella , Muñoz-Beatove Abel , Martinez Miguel J. , Hurtado Juan Carlos , Navarro Mireia , Bassat Quique , Maixenchs Maria , Delgado Vima , Wallong Edwin , Aceituno Anna , Kim Jean , Paganelli Christina , Goco Norman J. , Aldecoa Iban , Martinez-Pozo Antonio , Martinez Daniel , Ramírez-Ruz José , Cathomas Gieri , Haab Myriam , Menéndez Clara , Ordi Jaume
Published: April 2021

Postmortem studies are crucial for providing insight into emergent diseases. However, a complete autopsy is frequently not feasible in highly transmissible diseases due to biohazard challenges. Minimally invasive autopsy (MIA) is a needle-based approach aimed at collecting samples of key organs without opening the body, which may be a valid alternative in these cases. We aimed to: (a) provide biosafety guidelines for conducting MIAs in COVID-19 cases, (b) compare the performance of MIA versus complete autopsy, and (c) evaluate the safety of the procedure. Between October and December 2020, MIAs were conducted in six deceased patients with PCR-confirmed COVID-19, in a basic autopsy room, with reinforced personal protective equipment. Samples from the lungs and key organs were successfully obtained in all cases. A complete autopsy was performed on the same body immediately after the MIA. The diagnoses of the MIA matched those of the complete autopsy. In four patients, COVID-19 was the main cause of death, being responsible for the different stages of diffuse alveolar damage. No COVID-19 infection was detected in the personnel performing the MIAs or complete autopsies. In conclusion, MIA might be a feasible, adequate and safe alternative for cause of death investigation in COVID-19 cases.
Application of Quantitative-PCR to Monitor Netpen Sites in British Columbia (Canada) for Tenacibaculum Species
Authors: Nowlan Joseph P. , Britney Scott R. , Lumsden John S. , Russell Spencer
Published: April 2021

Tenacibaculum are frequently detected from fish with tenacibaculosis at aquaculture sites; however, information on the ecology of these bacteria is sparse. Quantitative-PCR assays were used to detect T. maritimum and T. dicentrarchi at commercial Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) netpen sites throughout several tenacibaculosis outbreaks. T. dicentrarchi and T. maritimum were identified in live fish, dead fish, other organisms associated with netpens, water samples and on inanimate substrates, which indicates a ubiquitous distribution around stocked netpen sites. Before an outbreak, T. dicentrarchi was found throughout the environment and from fish, and T. maritimum was infrequently identified. During an outbreak, increases in the bacterial load in were recorded and no differences were recorded after an outbreak supporting the observed recrudescence of mouthrot. More bacteria were recorded in the summer months, with more mortality events and antibiotic treatments, indicating that seasonality may influence tenacibaculosis; however, outbreaks occurred in both seasons. Relationships were identified between fish mortalities and antimicrobial use to water quality parameters (temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen) (p < 0.05), but with low R2 values (<0.25), other variables are also involved. Furthermore, Tenacibaculum species appear to have a ubiquitous spatial and temporal distribution around stocked netpen sites, and with the potential to induce disease in Atlantic salmon, continued research is needed.
Morphometric and Molecular Diversity among Seven European Isolates of Pratylenchus penetrans
Authors: Bogale Mesfin , Tadesse Betre , Nuaima Rasha Haj , Honermeier Bernd , Hallmann Johannes , DiGennaro Peter
Published: April 2021

Pratylenchus penetrans is an economically important root-lesion nematode species that affects agronomic and ornamental plants. Understanding its diversity is of paramount importance to develop effective control and management strategies. This study aimed to characterize the morphological and genetic diversity among seven European isolates. An isolate from the USA was included in the molecular analyses for comparative purposes. Morphometrics of the European P. penetrans isolates generally were within the range of the original descriptions for this species. However, multiple morphometric characteristics, including body length, maximum body width, tail length and length of the post-vulval uterine sac showed discrepancies when compared to other populations. Nucleotide sequence-based analyses revealed a high level of intraspecific diversity among the isolates. We observed no correlation between D2-D3 rDNA- and COXI-based phylogenetic similarities and geographic origin. Our phylogenetic analyses including selected GenBank sequences also suggest that the controversy surrounding the distinction between P. penetrans and P. fallax remains.