bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling Profitability in the Jamaican Coffee Industry
Authors: Mighty Mario , Granco Gabriel
Published: February 2021

It is well known that producers of agricultural products do not able to capture most of the value from what they grow. As such, it is important for producers to be attuned to the various factors that impact the viability of their products. One such potential avenue for coffee producers is developing a strong awareness of profitability across their respective geographic regions. This research presents a fine-scale geospatial profitability model for coffee production using the test case of the Jamaican Coffee Industry, a sector which once guaranteed profitability but now presents variable (often losing) returns for many producers, this research presents a cost-surface model for coffee production in the island of Jamaica. Results indicated large scale profitability in the 2016–2017 coffee year but limited profitability in the 2019–2019 coffee year, highlighting the important role of revenue fluctuation in island-wide profitability. Results underscore importance of scenario planning in the coffee production cycle. By understanding the spatial properties of profitability producers will obtain better decision-making insight for production and management decisions in the coffee industry around the world. The geospatial profitability model establishes a baseline approach that can be accessed by industry stakeholders of varying technological capacities.
Economic Risk Assessment by Weather-Related Heat Stress Indices for Confined Livestock Buildings: A Case Study for Fattening Pigs in Central Europe
Authors: Schauberger Günther , Schönhart Martin , Zollitsch Werner , Hörtenhuber Stefan J. , Kirner Leopold , Mikovits Christian , Baumgartner Johannes , Piringer Martin , Knauder Werner , Anders Ivonne , Andre Konrad , Hennig-Pauka Isabel
Published: February 2021

In the last decades, farm animals kept in confined and mechanically ventilated livestock buildings have been increasingly confronted with heat stress (HS) due to global warming. These adverse conditions cause a depression of animal health and welfare and a reduction of the performance up to an increase in mortality. To facilitate sound management decisions, livestock farmers need relevant arguments, which quantify the expected economic risk and the corresponding uncertainty. The economic risk was determined for the pig fattening sector based on the probability of HS and the calculated decrease in gross margin. The model calculation for confined livestock buildings showed that HS indices calculated by easily available meteorological parameters can be used for assessment quantification of indoor HS, which has been difficult to determine. These weather-related HS indices can be applied not only for an economic risk assessment but also for weather-index based insurance for livestock farms. Based on the temporal trend between 1981 and 2017, a simple model was derived to assess the likelihood of HS for 2020 and 2030. Due to global warming, the return period for a 90-percentile HS index is reduced from 10 years in 2020 to 3–4 years in 2030. The economic impact of HS on livestock farms was calculated by the relationship between an HS index based on the temperature-humidity index (THI) and the reduction of gross margin. From the likelihood of HS and this economic impact function, the probability of the economic risk was determined. The reduction of the gross margin for a 10-year return period was determined for 1980 with 0.27 € per year per animal place and increased by 20-fold to 5.13 € per year per animal place in 2030.
Effect of Deposition Aids Tank-Mixed with Herbicides on Cotton and Soybean Canopy Deposition and Spray Droplet Parameters
Authors: Samples Chase Allen , Butts Thomas R. , Vieira Bruno C. , Irby Jon Trenton , Reynolds Daniel B. , Catchot Angus , Kruger Greg R. , Dodds Darrin M.
Published: February 2021

The adoption of auxin-tolerant crops has increased awareness regarding herbicide off-target movement. Deposition aids are promoted as a possible solution to off-target movement, although their effect on spray canopy deposition are not well understood. Studies were conducted to determine the impact of deposition aids tank-mixed with herbicides on spray droplet size and canopy deposition. Commonly used herbicides were applied on soybean and cotton in combination with deposition aids (oil, polymer, and guargum). Interactions between herbicide solution and deposition aid influenced droplet size parameters for both cotton and soybean herbicides tested herein (p ≤ 0.0001). Generally, the addition of polymer and guargum deposition aids increased spray droplet size, whereas the addition of oil deposition aid decreased droplet size for some treatments. When herbicides were combined, the inclusion of deposition aids did not influence overall spray deposition on cotton (p = 0.82) and soybean (p = 0.72). When herbicide solutions were evaluated individually, the advent of deposition aids had inconsistent results with cotton and soybean spray deposition being unaffected, increased, or even decreased depending on the herbicide solution tested. For example, the polymer-based deposition aid increased spray deposition on cotton for applications of glyphosate + dicamba + S-metolachlor resulting in 1640.6 RFU (relative fluorescence units). However, the same deposition aid decreased spray deposition on cotton for applications of glyphosate + dicamba + acetochlor (1179.3 RFU). Although deposition aids influenced spray deposition on cotton and soybean for some herbicide combinations, their use should be determined on a case-by-case scenario.
A Cohort Study Risk Factor Analysis for Endemic Disease in Pre-Weaned Dairy Heifer Calves
Authors: Johnson Kate F. , Chancellor Natalie , Wathes D. Claire
Published: February 2021

Dairy heifer calves experience high levels of contagious disease during their preweaning period, which may result in poor welfare, reduced performance or mortality. We determined risk factors for disease in a cohort study of 492 heifers recruited from 11 commercial UK dairy farms. Every animal received a weekly examination by a veterinarian from birth to nine weeks using the Wisconsin scoring system. Multivariable models were constructed using a hierarchical model with calf nested within farm. Outcome variables for each disease included a binary outcome (yes/no), disease duration and a composite disease score (CDS) including both severity and duration. Diarrhoea, bovine respiratory disease (BRD) and umbilical disease were recorded in 48.2%, 45.9% and 28.7% of calves, respectively. A higher heifer calving intensity in the week of birth reduced the CDS for diarrhoea, with a marginal benefit of improved passive transfer (serum immunoglobulin G (IgG) measured at recruitment). The CDS for BRD was reduced by housing in fixed groups, higher mean temperature in month of birth, increasing milk solids fed, increasing IgG, and higher plasma IGF-1 at recruitment. Conversely, higher calving intensity and higher temperature both increased the CDS for umbilical disease, whereas high IGF-1 was again protective. Although good passive transfer reduced the severity of BRD, it was not significant in models for diarrhoea and umbilical disease, emphasising the need to optimise other aspects of management. Measuring IGF-1 in the first week was a useful additional indicator for disease risk.
The Koala Immune Response to Chlamydial Infection and Vaccine Development—Advancing Our Immunological Understanding
Authors: Quigley Bonnie L , Timms Peter
Published: February 2021

Chlamydia is a significant pathogen for many species, including the much-loved Australian marsupial, the koala (Phascolarctos cinereus). To combat this situation, focused research has gone into the development and refinement of a chlamydial vaccine for koalas. The foundation of this process has involved characterising the immune response of koalas to both natural chlamydial infection as well as vaccination. From parallels in human and mouse research, it is well-established that an effective anti-chlamydial response will involve a balance of cell-mediated Th1 responses involving interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), humoral Th2 responses involving systemic IgG and mucosal IgA, and inflammatory Th17 responses involving interleukin 17 (IL-17) and neutrophils. Characterisation of koalas with chlamydial disease has shown increased expression within all three of these major immunological pathways and monitoring of koalas’ post-vaccination has detected further enhancements to these key pathways. These findings offer optimism that a chlamydial vaccine for wider distribution to koalas is not far off. Recent advances in marsupial genetic knowledge and general nucleic acid assay technology have moved koala immunological research a step closer to other mammalian research systems. However, koala-specific reagents to directly assay cytokine levels and cell-surface markers are still needed to progress our understanding of koala immunology.
Intestinal Helminths in Wild Rodents from Native Forest and Exotic Pine Plantations (Pinus radiata) in Central Chile
Authors: Riquelme Maira , Salgado Rodrigo , Simonetti Javier A. , Landaeta-Aqueveque Carlos , Fredes Fernando , Rubio André V.
Published: February 2021

Native forests have been replaced by forestry plantations worldwide, impacting biodiversity. However, the effect of this anthropogenic land-use change on parasitism is poorly understood. One of the most important land-use change in Chile is the replacement of native forests by Monterey pine (Pinus radiata) plantations. In this study, we analyzed the parasitism (presence and prevalence) of intestinal helminths from fecal samples of wild rodents in three habitat types: native forests and adult and young pine plantations in central Chile. Small mammals were sampled seasonally for two years, and a total of 1091 fecal samples from seven small mammal species were analyzed using coprological analysis. We found several helminth families and genera, some of them potentially zoonotic. In addition, new rodent–parasite associations were reported for the first time. The overall helminth prevalence was 16.95%, and an effect of habitat type on prevalence was not observed. Other factors were more relevant for prevalence such rodent species for Hymenolepis sp. and season for Physaloptera sp. Our findings indicate that pine plantations do not increase helminth prevalence in rodents compared to native forests.
Circulating Non-Esterified Fatty Acids as Biomarkers for Fat Content and Composition in Pigs
Authors: Tor Marc , Vilaró Francesca , Ros-Freixedes Roger , Álvarez-Rodríguez Javier , Bosch Lluís , Gol Sofia , Pena Ramona N. , Reixach Josep , Estany Joan
Published: February 2021

Circulating non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) can reflect the composition of dietary fat or adipose tissues depending on the fasting conditions. Therefore, circulating NEFA may be valuable as biomarkers for meat quality traits, such as intramuscular fat content and fatty acid composition in finishing pigs. Genetic variants that regulate lipid metabolism can also modulate the circulating NEFA. We conducted an experiment with 150 heavy Duroc pigs to evaluate fluctuations in the circulating NEFA composition due to age, fasting duration and two genetic polymorphisms, one in the leptin receptor (LEPR; rs709596309) and one in the stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD; rs80912566) gene. Circulating NEFA were more saturated and less monounsaturated than the subcutaneous and intramuscular adipose tissues. Absolute circulating NEFA content was more influenced by fasting duration than age. The SCD polymorphism did not impact NEFA content or composition. The LEPR polymorphism affected the content but not the fatty acid composition. Circulating oleic acid NEFA content after a short fasting was positively correlated with intramuscular fat content and, after a long fasting, with intramuscular oleic acid content. We conclude that circulating NEFA reflect environmental and genetic metabolic changes but are of limited value as biomarkers for intramuscular fat content and fatty acid composition.
The Autumn Low Milk Yield Syndrome in High Genetic Merit Dairy Cattle: The Possible Role of a Dysregulated Innate Immune Response
Authors: Amadori Massimo , Spelta Chiara
Published: February 2021

The analysis of milk yield data shows that high genetic merit dairy cows do not express their full production potential in autumn. Therefore, we focused on metabolic stress and inflammatory response in the dry and peripartum periods as possible causes thereof. It was our understanding that some cows could not cope with the stress imposed by their physiological and productive status by means of adequate adaptation strategies. Accordingly, this study highlights the noxious factors with a potential to affect cows in the above transition period: hot summer climate, adverse genetic traits, poor coping with unfavorable environmental conditions, outright production diseases and consequences thereof. In particular, the detrimental effects in the dry period of overcrowding, photoperiod change and heat stress on mammary gland development and milk production are highlighted in the context of the autumn low milk yield syndrome. The latter could be largely accounted for by a “memory” effect on the innate immune system induced in summer by diverse stressors after dry-off, according to strong circumstantial and indirect experimental evidence. The “memory” effect is based on distinct epigenetic changes of innate immunity genes, as already shown in cases of bovine mastitis. Following a primary stimulation, the innate immune system would be able to achieve a state known as “trained immunity”, a sort of “education” which modifies the response to the same or similar stressors upon a subsequent exposure. In our scenario, the “education” of the innate immune system would induce a major shift in the metabolism of inflammatory cells following their reprogramming. This would entail a higher basal consumption of glucose, in competition with the need for the synthesis of milk. Also, there is strong evidence that the inflammatory response generated in the dry period leads to a notable reduction of dry matter intake after calving, and to a reduced efficiency of oxidative phosphorylation in mitochondria. On the whole, an effective control of the stressors in the dry period is badly needed for better disease control and optimal production levels in dairy cattle.
Multiple-Phase Biometric Relationships and Sexual Maturity in the Atlantic Bluefin Tuna, Thunnus thynnus (Osteichthyes: Scombridae)
Authors: Bello Giambattista , Santamaria Nicoletta , Corriero Aldo
Published: February 2021

Most fish undergo distinct growth phases during ontogenesis. An extremely important passage from the juvenile to adult phase occurs at the onset of sexual maturity, which shows in body proportion and/or growth rate changes. These can be detected as change-points in biometric relationships. In this paper, the Atlantic bluefin tuna was analyzed to verify whether its somatic proportions show any sign of discontinuity during growth, i.e., whether any change-points may be detected in its somatic proportions. This fish has never been examined in this respect, and single-phase models, which are indeed easier to both compute and apply, are used in stock analyses. The following somatic relationships were analyzed in Atlantic bluefin tuna captured in the Mediterranean Sea between 1998 and 2010: “fork length–weight” regression, the von Bertalanffy growth equation, and “first dorsal spine cross section surface–fork length” regression. All of the examined relationships were found to be best modelled by multiple-phase regression equations, and all of them showed a change-point within the range of 101–110 cm fork length, which corresponds to 3–4 years of age. The present results, based on reproductive state-independent analyses, corroborate the disputed hypothesis that Atlantic bluefin tuna from the eastern stock in fact reproduce for the first time at this age.
Understanding the Interaction Effects between Dietary Lipid Content and Rearing Temperature on Growth Performance, Feed Utilization, and Fat Deposition of Sea Bass (Dicentrarchus labrax)
Authors: Katsika Lydia , Huesca Flores Mario , Kotzamanis Yannis , Estevez Alicia , Chatzifotis Stavros
Published: February 2021

This study was conducted to elucidate the interaction effects of temperature and dietary lipid levels (2 × 2 factorial experiment) on the growth performance, muscle, and liver composition in adult farmed European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax). Two groups of fish (190 g; 60 fish per group) were distributed in 12 tanks in triplicates and kept at two different temperature regimes; one starting at 23 °C and then changed to 17 °C for 61 days, and the other starting at 17 °C and then changed to 23 °C for 39 days. Two commercial diets containing both ~44% crude protein but incorporating different dietary lipid levels, 16.5% (D16) and 20.0% (D20) (dry matter (DM)), were fed to the fish to apparent satiation; the type of diet fed to each fish group remained constant throughout the experiment. Final body weight, weight gain, and specific growth rate were significantly higher for the fish group held at 23 °C compared to the fish group at 17 °C (before the temperature changes), while the dietary fat content did not have any profound effect in both groups. Furthermore, the different temperature regimes did not affect muscle or liver composition, but, on the contrary, dietary lipids affected hepatosomatic, perivisceral fat, and visceral indexes. Feed conversion ratio and specific growth rate were not affected by the dietary lipid level. An interaction of temperature and dietary lipid content was observed in daily feed consumption (DFC) and final body weight (FBW).
Antibiotics’ Use in Thailand: Community Pharmacists’ Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices
Authors: Siltrakool Budh , Berrou Ilhem , Griffiths David , Alghamdi Saleh
Published: January 2021

Thailand spends $203 million on antibiotics every year, and patients can still access antimicrobials over the counter without a prescription. Community pharmacy plays a pivotal role in improving access and ensuring the appropriate use of antimicrobials. However, little is known about current practices in this setting. This study aims to assess Thai community pharmacists’ knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) regarding antimicrobials’ use and resistance. A cross-sectional study was conducted in Bangkok and Chonburi province in 2017 using an online self-administered questionnaire. The questionnaire was completed by 372 community pharmacists (71.4% response rate). The most commonly encountered infections in the community were upper and lower respiratory tract infections. The most commonly dispensed antimicrobials were broad-spectrum antibiotics including aminopenicillins and fluoroquinolones. Thai pharmacists have a good knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding antimicrobials’ use and resistance. They dispense anti-microbials in line with local guidelines, although international guidelines may not indicate anti-biotics for viral self-limiting infections. While community pharmacy in Thailand could be the most accessible healthcare resource for patients, inappropriate provision of antimicrobials for self-limiting viral infections by pharmacists will increase antimicrobial resistance. This highlights the need for updated guidance and improved pharmacists’ training.
Microbiological and Clinical Aspects of Actinomyces Infections: What Have We Learned?
Authors: Urbán Edit , Gajdács Márió
Published: February 2021

Obligate anaerobic bacteria are important members of the normal human microbiota, present in high numbers on mucosal surfaces (e [...]
From Green Technology to Functional Olive Oils: Assessing the Best Combination of Olive Tree-Related Extracts with Complementary Bioactivities
Authors: Hernáez Álvaro , Jaramillo Sara , García-Borrego Aránzazu , Espejo-Calvo Juan Antonio , Covas María-Isabel , Blanchart Gemma , de la Torre Rafael , Carrasco-Pancorbo Alegría , Mesa María Dolores , Fernández-Prior Maria África , Castañer Olga , Fitó Montserrat
Published: January 2021

Our aim was to assess the combination of olive tree-related extracts with the most favorable profile of in vitro bioactive properties. We tested the antioxidant (increment of low-density lipoprotein resistance against oxidation), vasoactive (promotion of nitric oxide release and decrease of endothelin-1 production in human umbilical vein endothelial cells), anti-inflammatory (decrease of the endothelial production of vascular cell adhesion molecule-1), and antithrombotic (reduction of the endothelial release of plasminogen activator inhibitor-1) capacities of six phenolic extracts and three triterpenic acid solutions (Ps and Ts, respectively). We tested extracts alone and in combination, at nutritional (Ps: 0.05–0.5 μmol/L; Ts: 0.001–0.1 μmol/L) and nutraceutical doses (Ps: 1–10 μmol/L; Ts: 0.25–10 μmol/L). The combination of Ps rich in 3,4-dihydroxyphenylglycol (76%, P2), hydroxytyrosol (95%, P3), and oleuropein (70%, P4) (final nutritional concentration: 0.15 μmol/L; final nutraceutical concentration: 3 μmol/L) was the best in order to prepare functional products and nutraceuticals with cardioprotective properties, despite the fact that the isolated extract with the greatest in vitro properties was P5 (75% oleocanthal), suggesting a potential synergistic effect among different olive components.
Radiation-Induced Bystander Effect: Loss of Radioprotective Capacity of Rosmarinic Acid In Vivo and In Vitro
Authors: Olivares Amparo , Alcaraz-Saura Miguel , Achel Daniel Gyingiri , Berná-Mestre Juan de Dios , Alcaraz Miguel
Published: February 2021

In radiation oncology, the modulation of the bystander effect is a target both for the destruction of tumor cells and to protect healthy cells. With this objective, we determine whether the radioprotective capacity of rosmarinic acid (RA) can affect the intensity of these effects. Genoprotective capacity was obtained by determining the micronuclei frequencies in in vivo and in vitro assays and the cell survival was determined by the (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay) (MTT) assay in three cell lines (PNT2, TRAMPC1 and B16F10), both in direct exposure to X-rays and after the production of radiation-induced bystander effect. The administration of RA in irradiated cells produced a decrease in the frequency of micronuclei both in vivo and in vitro, and an increase in cell survival, as expression of its radioprotective effect (p < 0.001) attributable to its ability to scavenge radio-induced free radicals (ROS). However, RA does not achieve any modification in the animals receiving serum or in the cultures treated with the irradiated medium, which expresses an absence of radioprotective capacity. The results suggest that ROS participates in the formation of signals in directly irradiated cells, but only certain subtypes of ROS, the cytotoxic products of lipid peroxidation, participate in the creation of lesions in recipient cells.
Deep Learning Method for Fault Detection of Wind Turbine Converter
Authors: Xiao Cheng , Liu Zuojun , Zhang Tieling , Zhang Xu
Published: January 2021

The converter is an important component in wind turbine power drive-train systems, and usually, it has a higher failure rate. Therefore, detecting the potential faults for prediction of its failure has become indispensable for condition-based maintenance and operation of wind turbines. This paper presents an approach to wind turbine converter fault detection using convolutional neural network models which are developed by using wind turbine Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system data. The approach starts with the selection of fault indicator variables, and then the fault indicator variables data are extracted from a wind turbine SCADA system. Using the data, radar charts are generated, and the convolutional neural network models are applied to feature extraction from the radar charts and characteristic analysis of the feature for fault detection. Based on the analysis of the Octave Convolution (OctConv) network structure, an improved AOctConv (Attention Octave Convolution) structure is proposed in this paper, and it is applied to the ResNet50 backbone network (named as AOC–ResNet50). It is found that the algorithm based on AOC–ResNet50 overcomes the issues of information asymmetry caused by the asymmetry of the sampling method and the damage to the original features in the high and low frequency domains by the OctConv structure. Finally, the AOC–ResNet50 network is employed for fault detection of the wind turbine converter using 10 min SCADA system data. It is verified that the fault detection accuracy using the AOC–ResNet50 network is up to 98.0%, which is higher than the fault detection accuracy using the ResNet50 and Oct–ResNet50 networks. Therefore, the effectiveness of the AOC–ResNet50 network model in wind turbine converter fault detection is identified. The novelty of this paper lies in a novel AOC–ResNet50 network proposed and its effectiveness in wind turbine fault detection. This was verified through a comparative study on wind turbine power converter fault detection with other competitive convolutional neural network models for deep learning.
Performance Enhancement of Flexible Polymer Triboelectric Generator through Polarization of the Embedded Ferroelectric Polymer Layer
Authors: Park Deahoon , Kim Min Cheol , Kim Minje , Park Pangun , Nah Junghyo
Published: January 2021

In this work, we report on a flexible triboelectric generator (TEG) with a multilayer polymer structure, consisting of a poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-trifluoroethylene) (PVDF-TrFE) layer sandwiched by polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) layers for the performance enhancement of TEGs. We confirmed that the output performance of the TEG is closely dependent on the structure and polarization direction of the PVDF-TrFE layer. In addition, the PDMS layer serves as the electron trapping layer and suppresses the discharging of the surface charges, boosting the output performance. Furthermore, the polarized PVDF-TrFE layer in the preferred direction contributes to increasing the surface potential during the contact–separation motion. The interaction between these two polymer layers synergistically leads to the boosted output performance of TEGs. Specifically, the maximum peak-to-peak output voltage and current density of 420 V and 50 μA/cm2 generated by the proposed architecture, representing approximately a fivefold improvement compared with the TEG with a single layer, even though the same friction layers were used for contact electrification.
Binary Spring Search Algorithm for Solving Various Optimization Problems
Authors: Dehghani Mohammad , Montazeri Zeinab , Dehghani Ali , Malik Om P. , Morales-Menendez Ruben , Dhiman Gaurav , Nouri Nima , Ehsanifar Ali , Guerrero Josep M. , Ramirez-Mendoza Ricardo A.
Published: January 2021

One of the most powerful tools for solving optimization problems is optimization algorithms (inspired by nature) based on populations. These algorithms provide a solution to a problem by randomly searching in the search space. The design’s central idea is derived from various natural phenomena, the behavior and living conditions of living organisms, laws of physics, etc. A new population-based optimization algorithm called the Binary Spring Search Algorithm (BSSA) is introduced to solve optimization problems. BSSA is an algorithm based on a simulation of the famous Hooke’s law (physics) for the traditional weights and springs system. In this proposal, the population comprises weights that are connected by unique springs. The mathematical modeling of the proposed algorithm is presented to be used to achieve solutions to optimization problems. The results were thoroughly validated in different unimodal and multimodal functions; additionally, the BSSA was compared with high-performance algorithms: binary grasshopper optimization algorithm, binary dragonfly algorithm, binary bat algorithm, binary gravitational search algorithm, binary particle swarm optimization, and binary genetic algorithm. The results show the superiority of the BSSA. The results of the Friedman test corroborate that the BSSA is more competitive.
Vertical Vibrations of Footbridges Due to Group Loading: Effect of Pedestrian–Structure Interaction
Authors: Hawryszków Paweł , Pimentel Roberto , Silva Rafaela , Silva Felipe
Published: February 2021

The vibration serviceability of footbridges has evolved from the adoption of a single pedestrian crossing in the resonance condition to load cases in which several pedestrians cross the structure simultaneously. However, in spite of this improvement, pedestrians continue to be considered as applied loads in codes of practice. Recent research has pointed out that modeling pedestrians as dynamic systems is a step further in the search for a more realistic design approach. This is explored in this paper, focusing on the case of vertical vibration. A two-span cable-stayed test structure was selected, and accelerations were measured from single and group crossings, both at the structure and at a pedestrian’s waist. Numerical simulations considering the pedestrians modeled as loads only and also as dynamic systems were implemented, and numerical and experimental time response vibration signatures were compared. Reductions of up to 25% and 20% in peak and RMS acceleration, respectively, were obtained when pedestrians were modeled as dynamic systems, in comparison with the less realistic model of pedestrians as loads only. Such reductions were shown to depend on the number of pedestrians involved in the group. The results, thus, highlight that pedestrian–structure interaction is an asset for the vibration serviceability design of footbridges.
Crowded Space: A Review on Radar Measurements for Space Debris Monitoring and Tracking
Authors: Muntoni Giacomo , Montisci Giorgio , Pisanu Tonino , Andronico Pietro , Valente Giuseppe
Published: February 2021

Space debris monitoring is nowadays a priority for worldwide space agencies, due to the serious threat that these objects present. More and more efforts have been made to extend the network of available radar systems devoted to the control of space. A meticulous review has been done in this paper, in order to find and classify the considerable amounts of data provided by the scientific community that deal with RADAR measurement for the debris monitoring and tracking. The information gathered is organized based on the volume of found data and classified taking into account the geographical location of the facilities.
Membrane Contactors for Maximizing Biomethane Recovery in Anaerobic Wastewater Treatments: Recent Efforts and Future Prospect
Authors: Lee Yechan , Yun Kang Hee , Sethunga Dilhara , Bae Tae-Hyun
Published: February 2021

Increasing demand for water and energy has emphasized the significance of energy-efficient anaerobic wastewater treatment; however, anaerobic effluents still containing a large portion of the total CH4 production are discharged to the environment without being utilized as a valuable energy source. Recently, gas–liquid membrane contactors have been considered as a promising technology to recover such dissolved methane from the effluent due to their attractive characteristics such as high specific mass transfer area, no flooding at high flow rates, and low energy requirement. Nevertheless, the development and further application of membrane contactors were still not fulfilled due to their inherent issues such as membrane wetting and fouling, which lower the CH4 recovery efficiency and thus net energy production. In this perspective, the topics in membrane contactors for dissolved CH4 recovery are discussed in the following order: (1) operational principle, (2) potential as waste-to-energy conversion system, and (3) technical challenges and recent efforts to address them. Then, future efforts that should be devoted to advancing gas–liquid membrane contactors are suggested as concluding remarks.
Self-Assembled MoS2/ssDNA Nanostructures for the Capacitive Aptasensing of Acetamiprid Insecticide
Authors: Hamami Maroua , Raouafi Noureddine , Korri-Youssoufi Hafsa
Published: February 2021

The aim of this work is to detect acetamiprid using electrochemical capacitance spectroscopy, which is widely used as a pesticide in agriculture and is harmful to humans. We have designed aptasensing platform based on the adsorption of a DNA aptamer on lipoic acid-modified MoS2 nano-sheets. The biosensor takes advantage of the high affinity of single-stranded DNA sequences to MoS2 nano-sheets. The stability of DNA on MoS2 nano-sheets is assured by covalent attachment to lipoic acid that forms self-assembled layer on MoS2 surface. The biosensor exhibits excellent capacitance performances owing to its large effective surface area making it interesting material for capacitive transduction system. The impedance-derived capacitance varies with the increasing concentrations of acetamiprid that can be attributed to the aptamer desorption from the MoS2 nanosheets facilitating ion diffusion into MoS2 interlayers. The developed device showed high analytical performances for acetamiprid detection on electrochemical impedance spectroscopy EIS- derived capacitance variation and high selectivity toward the target in presence of other pesticides. Real sample analysis of food stuff such as tomatoes is demonstrated which open the way to their use for monitoring of food contaminants by tailoring the aptamer.
Overview of the French Operational Network for In Situ Observation of PM Chemical Composition and Sources in Urban Environments (CARA Program)
Authors: Favez Olivier , Weber Samuël , Petit Jean-Eudes , Alleman Laurent Y. , Albinet Alexandre , Riffault Véronique , Chazeau Benjamin , Amodeo Tanguy , Salameh Dalia , Zhang Yunjiang , Srivastava Deepchandra , Samaké Abdoulaye , Aujay-Plouzeau Robin , Papin Arnaud , Bonnaire Nicolas , Boullanger Carole , Chatain Mélodie , Chevrier Florie , Detournay Anaïs , Dominik-Sègue Marta , Falhun Raphaële , Garbin Céline , Ghersi Véronique , Grignion Guillaume , Levigoureux Gilles , Pontet Sabrina , Rangognio Jérôme , Zhang Shouwen , Besombes Jean-Luc , Conil Sébastien , Uzu Gaëlle , Savarino Joël , Marchand Nicolas , Gros Valérie , Marchand Caroline , Jaffrezo Jean-Luc , Leoz-Garziandia Eva
Published: February 2021

The CARA program has been running since 2008 by the French reference laboratory for air quality monitoring (LCSQA) and the regional monitoring networks, to gain better knowledge—at a national level—on particulate matter (PM) chemistry and its diverse origins in urban environments. It results in strong collaborations with international-level academic partners for state-of-the-art, straightforward, and robust results and methodologies within operational air quality stakeholders (and subsequently, decision makers). Here, we illustrate some of the main outputs obtained over the last decade, thanks to this program, regarding methodological aspects (both in terms of measurement techniques and data treatment procedures) as well as acquired knowledge on the predominant PM sources. Offline and online methods are used following well-suited quality assurance and quality control procedures, notably including inter-laboratory comparison exercises. Source apportionment studies are conducted using various receptor modeling approaches. Overall, the results presented herewith underline the major influences of residential wood burning (during the cold period) and road transport emissions (exhaust and non-exhaust ones, all throughout the year), as well as substantial contributions of mineral dust and primary biogenic particles (mostly during the warm period). Long-range transport phenomena, e.g., advection of secondary inorganic aerosols from the European continental sector and of Saharan dust into the French West Indies, are also discussed in this paper. Finally, we briefly address the use of stable isotope measurements (δ15N) and of various organic molecular markers for a better understanding of the origins of ammonium and of the different organic aerosol fractions, respectively.
Degree Adjusted Large-Scale Network Analysis Reveals Novel Putative Metabolic Disease Genes
Authors: Badkas Apurva , Nguyen Thanh-Phuong , Caberlotto Laura , Schneider Jochen G. , De Landtsheer Sébastien , Sauter Thomas
Published: February 2021

A large percentage of the global population is currently afflicted by metabolic diseases (MD), and the incidence is likely to double in the next decades. MD associated co-morbidities such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and cardiomyopathy contribute significantly to impaired health. MD are complex, polygenic, with many genes involved in its aetiology. A popular approach to investigate genetic contributions to disease aetiology is biological network analysis. However, data dependence introduces a bias (noise, false positives, over-publication) in the outcome. While several approaches have been proposed to overcome these biases, many of them have constraints, including data integration issues, dependence on arbitrary parameters, database dependent outcomes, and computational complexity. Network topology is also a critical factor affecting the outcomes. Here, we propose a simple, parameter-free method, that takes into account database dependence and network topology, to identify central genes in the MD network. Among them, we infer novel candidates that have not yet been annotated as MD genes and show their relevance by highlighting their differential expression in public datasets and carefully examining the literature. The method contributes to uncovering connections in the MD mechanisms and highlights several candidates for in-depth study of their contribution to MD and its co-morbidities.
Expression of Semaphorin 3A in Malignant and Normal Bladder Tissue: Immunohistochemistry Staining and Morphometric Evaluation
Authors: Bejar Ilan , Rubinstein Jacob , Bejar Jacob , Sabo Edmond , Sheffer Hilla K , Bahouth Zaher , Halachmi Sarel , Vadasz Zahava
Published: February 2021

Introduction: Our previous studies showed elevated levels of Semaphorin3a (Sema3A) in the urine of patients with urothelial cancer compared to healthy patients. The aim of this study was to analyze the extent of Sema3A expression in normal and malignant urothelial tissue using immune-staining microscopic and morphometric analysis. Materials and Methods: Fifty-seven paraffin-embedded bladder samples were retrieved from our pathology archive and analyzed: 14 samples of normal urothelium, 21 samples containing low-grade urothelial carcinoma, 13 samples of patients with high-grade urothelial carcinoma, 7 samples containing muscle invasive urothelial carcinoma, and 2 samples with pure urothelial carcinoma in situ. All samples were immunostained with anti Sema3A antibodies. The area of tissue stained with Sema3A and its intensity were analyzed using computerized morphometry and compared between the samples’ groups. Results: In normal bladder tissue, very light Sema3A staining was demonstrated on the mucosal basal layer and completely disappeared on the apical layer. In low-grade tumor samples, cells in the basal layer of the mucosa were also lightly stained with Sema3A, but Seama3A expression intensified upon moving apically, reaching its highest level on apical cells exfoliating to the urine. In high grade urothelial tumors, Seama3A staining was intense in the entire thickness of the mucosa. In samples containing carcinoma in situ, staining intensity was high and homogenous in all the neoplastic cells. Conclusions: Sema3A may be serve as a potential non-invasive marker of urothelial cancer.
Research Progress on the Cardiac Injury from ACE2 Targeting in SARS-CoV-2 Infection
Authors: Sun Hao , Su Xiaojuan , Huang Lingyi , Mu Dezhi , Qu Yi
Published: January 2021

The epidemic due to the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) is now a global concern, posing a severe threat to the health of populations. At present, all countries in the world are stepping up the development of vaccines and antiviral agents to prevent the infection and further transmission of SARS-CoV-2. An in-depth investigation of the target organs and pathogenesis regarding SARS-CoV-2 infection will be beneficial for virus therapy. Besides pulmonary injury, SARS-CoV-2 also causes cardiac injury, but the exact mechanisms are unclear. This review summarizes the essential structural characteristics of SARS-CoV-2 and angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), describes the cardiac manifestations following SARS-CoV-2 infection, and explores the mechanisms of cardiac injury targeting ACE2 after the viral invasion. We aim to help the timely detection of related symptoms and implementation of therapeutic measures by clinicians for SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Small-Molecule Anti-HIV-1 Agents Based on HIV-1 Capsid Proteins
Authors: Kobayakawa Takuya , Yokoyama Masaru , Tsuji Kohei , Fujino Masayuki , Kurakami Masaki , Boku Sayaka , Nakayama Miyuki , Kaneko Moemi , Ohashi Nami , Kotani Osamu , Murakami Tsutomu , Sato Hironori , Tamamura Hirokazu
Published: February 2021

The capsid of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) is a shell that encloses viral RNA and is highly conserved among many strains of the virus. It forms a conical structure by assembling oligomers of capsid (CA) proteins. CA dysfunction is expected to be an important target of suppression of HIV-1 replication, and it is important to understand a new mechanism that could lead to the CA dysfunction. A drug targeting CA however, has not been developed to date. Hydrophobic interactions between two CA molecules via Trp184/Met185 in CA were recently reported to be important for stabilization of the multimeric structure of CA. In the present study, a small molecule designed by in silico screening as a dipeptide mimic of Trp184 and Met185 in the interaction site, was synthesized and its significant anti-HIV-1 activity was confirmed. Structure activity relationship (SAR) studies of its derivatives were performed and provided results that are expected to be useful in the future design and development of novel anti-HIV agents targeting CA.
Extremely Low-Frequency Magnetic Field as a Stress Factor—Really Detrimental?—Insight into Literature from the Last Decade
Authors: Klimek Angelika , Rogalska Justyna
Published: January 2021

Biological effects of extremely low-frequency magnetic field (ELF-MF) and its consequences on human health have become the subject of important and recurrent public debate. ELF-MF evokes cell/organism responses that are characteristic to a general stress reaction, thus it can be regarded as a stress factor. Exposure to ELF-MF “turns on” different intracellular mechanisms into both directions: compensatory or deleterious ones. ELF-MF can provoke morphological and physiological changes in stress-related systems, mainly nervous, hormonal, and immunological ones. This review summarizes the ELF-MF-mediated changes at various levels of the organism organization. Special attention is placed on the review of literature from the last decade. Most studies on ELF-MF effects concentrate on its negative influence, e.g., impairment of behavior towards depressive and anxiety disorders; however, in the last decade there was an increase in the number of research studies showing stimulating impact of ELF-MF on neuroplasticity and neurorehabilitation. In the face of numerous studies on the ELF-MF action, it is necessary to systematize the knowledge for a better understanding of the phenomenon, in order to reduce the risk associated with the exposure to this factor and to recognize the possibility of using it as a therapeutic agent.
Advanced Multi-Body Modelling of DCCSS Isolators: Geometrical Compatibility and Kinematics
Authors: Bianco Vincenzo , Monti Giorgio , Belfiore Nicola Pio
Published: February 2021

The effectiveness of Double Concave Curved Surface Sliders (DCCSS), which initially spread under the name of Double Friction Pendulum (DFP) isolators, was already widely proven by numerous experimental campaigns carried out worldwide. However, many aspects concerning their dynamical behavior still need to be clarified and some details still require improvement and optimization. In particular, due to the boundary geometrical conditions, sliding along the coupled surfaces may not be compliant, where this adjective is adopted to indicate an even distribution of stresses and sliding contact. On the contrary, during an earthquake, the fulfillment of geometrical compatibility between the constitutive bodies naturally gives rise to a very peculiar dynamic behavior, composed of continuous alternation of sticking and slipping phases. Such behavior yields a temporary and cyclic change of topology. Since the constitutive elements can be modelled as rigid bodies, both approaches, namely Compliant Sliding and Stick-Slip, can be numerically modelled by means of techniques typically adopted for multi-body mechanical systems. With the objective of contributing to the understanding and further improvement of this technology, a topology-changing multi-body mechanical model was developed to simulate the DCCSS. In the present work, attention is focused on details regarding geometrical compatibility and kinematics, while the complete dynamics is presented in another work. In particular, for the sake of comparison, the kinematic equations are presented and applied not only for the proposed Stick-Slip approach, but also for the currently accepted Compliant Sliding approach. The main findings are presented and discussed.
Phenotypic and Proteomic Analysis Identifies Hallmarks of Blood Circulating Extracellular Vesicles in NSCLC Responders to Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors
Authors: Brocco Davide , Lanuti Paola , Pieragostino Damiana , Cufaro Maria Concetta , Simeone Pasquale , Bologna Giuseppina , Di Marino Pietro , De Tursi Michele , Grassadonia Antonino , Irtelli Luciana , De Lellis Laura , Veschi Serena , Florio Rosalba , Federici Luca , Marchisio Marco , Miscia Sebastiano , Cama Alessandro , Tinari Nicola , Del Boccio Piero
Published: February 2021

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) induce durable clinical responses only in a subset of advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. There is a need to identify mechanisms of ICI resistance and immunotherapy biomarkers to improve clinical benefit. In this study, we evaluated the prognostic and predictive value of circulating endothelial and leukocyte-derived extracellular vesicles (EV) in patients with advanced NSCLC treated with anti-PD-1/PD-L1 agents. In addition, the relationship between total blood circulating EV proteome and response to ICIs was investigated. An optimized flow cytometry method was employed for the identification and subtyping of blood circulating EVs in 59 patients with advanced NSCLC. Blood samples were collected from patients receiving anti-PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors (n = 31) or chemotherapy (n = 28). An exploratory proteomic analysis of sorted blood EVs was conducted in a subset of patients. Our results show that a low blood concentration of circulating endothelial-derived EVs before treatment was strongly associated to longer overall survival (p = 0.0004) and higher disease control rate (p = 0.045) in patients treated with ICIs. Interestingly, shotgun proteomics revealed that EVs of responders to anti-PD-1 therapy had a specific protein cargo before treatment. In addition, EV protein cargo was specifically modulated during immunotherapy. We identified a previously unknown association between circulating endothelial-derived extracellular vesicle concentration and immunotherapy-related clinical outcomes. We also observed differences in circulating extracellular vesicle proteome according to anti-PD-1-based treatment response in NSCLC patients. Overall, these results may contribute to the identification of novel circulating biomarkers for rational immunotherapy approaches in patients affected by NSCLC.