bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Improved Solution for Reactive Power Dispatch Problem Using Diversity-Enhanced Particle Swarm Optimization
Authors: Vishnu Mini , T. K. Sunil Kumar
Published: June 2020

Well-structured reactive power policies and dispatch are major concerns of operation and control technicians of any power system. Obtaining a suitable reactive power dispatch for any given load condition of the system is a prime duty of the system operator. It reduces loss of active power occurring during transmission by regulating reactive power control variables, thus boosting the voltage profile, enhancing the system security and power transfer capability, thereby attaining an improvement in overall system operation. The reactive power dispatch (RPD) problem being a mixed-integer discrete continuous (MIDC) problem demands the solution to contain all these variable types. This paper proposes a methodology to achieve an optimal and practically feasible solution to the RPD problem through the diversity-enhanced particle swarm optimization (DEPSO) technique. The suggested method is characterized by the calculation of the diversity of each particle from its mean position after every iteration. The movement of the particles is decided based on the calculated diversity, thereby preventing both local optima stagnation and haphazard unguided wandering. DEPSO accounts for the accuracy of the variables used in the RPD problem by providing discrete values and integer values compared to other algorithms, which provide all continuous values. The competency of the proposed method is tested on IEEE 14-, 30-, and 118-bus test systems. Simulation outcomes show that the proposed approach is feasible and efficient in attaining minimum active power losses and minimum voltage deviation from the reference. The results are compared to conventional particle swarm optimization (PSO) and JAYA algorithms.
Effect of Sieve Particle Size and Blend Proportion on the Quality Properties of Peeled and Unpeeled Orange Fleshed Sweet Potato Composite Flours
Authors: Chikpah Solomon Kofi , Korese Joseph Kudadam , Hensel Oliver , Sturm Barbara
Published: June 2020

Orange fleshed sweet potato (OFSP) has great potentials to improve the nutritional benefits of bakery products when processed into quality flour. This study investigated the effects of sieve particle sizes (250 μm and 500 μm) and flour blend proportions on the physicochemical, nutritional, functional and pasting properties of peeled and unpeeled OFSP composite flours. Peeled OFSP composite flours had significantly (p < 0.05) higher crude protein (CP), lightness (L*), oil absorption capacity (OAC) and water solubility (WS) but lower crude fiber (CF), bioactive compounds (except ascorbic acid), water absorption capacity (WAC) and swelling capacity (SC) than the unpeeled OFSP composite flours. The sieve particle size had no significant (p > 0.05) effect on nutritional and pasting properties. However, OFSP-based flours sieved with 500 μm mesh particle size had a significantly (p < 0.05) higher WAC and SC but a lower WS than corresponding 250 μm mesh flours. The proportions of flour blends greatly (p < 0.001) influenced all quality properties of OFSP composite flours. Generally, OFSP composite flours had higher CF, bioactive compounds, WAC, SC and WS, but lower CP, fat, OAC and pasting properties than wheat flour. The quality properties indicated that peeled and unpeeled OFSP flours sieved with a 250 μm or 500 μm mesh size have great potentials as ingredients in the bakery industry.
Physico-Chemical Characteristics and Microbiological Quality of Broiler Chicken Pectoralis Major Muscle Subjected to Different Storage Temperature and Duration
Authors: Ab Aziz Muhamad Faris , Hayat Muhammad Nizam , Kaka Ubedullah , Kamarulzaman Nitty Hirawaty , Sazili Awis Qurni
Published: June 2020

Storage temperature and duration plays an important role in meat processing. Observations in poultry processing plants have shown a serious deviation in storage condition compared to the recommended procedures. Furthermore, there is still a paucity of evidence on the effects of storage temperature and duration on meat quality and microbial population. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of different temperature and duration during storage on physico-chemical properties and microbiological quality of broiler chicken Pectoralis major muscle. Eighty birds were slaughtered and processed, following which the packed boneless breast (PBB) (each bird was to provide two breast muscle samples; left breast and right breast) was divided into four groups, each consisted of 40 PBB. Each group was subsequently assigned to storage either at 4 °C, −10 °C, −18 °C or −40 °C, for 24 h before 20 PBB samples from each group were transported to the respective laboratory for meat quality and microbiological analysis. The remaining 20 PBB from each storage temperature were stored for 72 h before being transported for analysis. Results have shown significant increases in drip loss and cooking loss as the storage temperature decreases. Similarly, storage duration significantly affected cooking loss, of which, samples stored for 72 h exhibited higher cooking loss compared to those stored for 24 h. For color, significant differences were only observed in lightness (L*) and redness (a*) values. Longer duration of storage had significantly improved tenderness whereby, samples that have been stored for a shorter duration presented higher pH values. Populations of coliform and Salmonella decreased significantly with decreasing temperature and increasing storage duration.
Consumer Awareness, Attitudes and Preferences Towards Heritage Cereals
Authors: Wendin Karin , Mustafa Arwa , Ortman Tove , Gerhardt Karin
Published: June 2020

Interest in heritage cereals is increasing among consumers, bakeries and farmers, and the trends point towards the local production of crops and connect to sustainability. The most known variety is spelt, which has opened up for old landraces such as Oland wheat. Heritage cereals have shown a higher resilience than modern varieties and have the potential to supply the market with alternative products that have an attractive cultural background. Delicious and nutritious products based on heritages cereals have a growing market potential. Consumers’ attitudes and preferences to different products are affected by factors such as age, gender and education. The aim of this study was to investigate and analyse different consumer groups’ awareness, attitudes and preferences toward heritage cereals. The number of respondents who participated in this study and answered the web-based questionnaire was 434. It can be concluded that most consumers are aware of heritage cereals. Geographic background had an influence, while academic background did not. Bread and pasta are the most consumed products and are regarded as the most popular future products to be based on heritage cereals. The most essential factors in bread are taste and flavour, followed by freshness and texture. The origin of the cereal and its health aspects are important; women are more concerned about the origin than men, while older consumers are more concerned about health. Older consumers are also more willing to pay extra for heritage cereal than younger consumers.
A Cross-Flow Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction of Curcuminoids from Curcuma longa L.: Process Design to Avoid Degradation
Authors: Binello Arianna , Grillo Giorgio , Barge Alessandro , Allegrini Pietro , Ciceri Daniele , Cravotto Giancarlo
Published: June 2020

Rhizomes of Curcuma longa L. are well known for their content of curcuminoids, which are compounds with interesting biological activity against various inflammatory states and diseases. Curcuminoids can degrade during processing. This piece of work investigates fast, efficient and cost-effective metabolite recovery from turmeric under ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE). An analytical evaluation of curcuminoid stability under sonication in different solvents is reported for the first time. HPLC and quantitative 1H-NMR were used. Under the applied conditions, EtOAc was found to be the optimal extraction medium, rather than EtOH, due to its lower radical generation, which facilitates better curcuminoid stability. Kinetic characterization, by means of the Peleg equation, was applied for single-step UAE on two different rhizome granulometries. Over a time of 90 min, maximum extraction yields were 25.63% and 47.56% for 6 and 2 mm matrix powders, respectively. However, it was observed that the largest portion of curcuminoid recovery was achieved in the first 30 min. Model outcomes were used as the basis for the design of a suitable multi-step cross-flow approach that supports and emphasizes the disruptive role of cavitation. The maximum curcuminoid yield was achieved over three steps (92.10%) and four steps (80.04%), for lower and higher granulometries, respectively. Finally, the central role of the solvent was further confirmed by turmeric oleoresin purification. The EtOAc extract was purified via crystallization, and a 95% pure curcuminoid product was isolated without any chromatographic procedure. No suitable crystallization was observed for the EtOH extract.
Identification of Regulatory SNPs Associated with Vicine and Convicine Content of Vicia faba Based on Genotyping by Sequencing Data Using Deep Learning
Authors: Heinrich Felix , Wutke Martin , Das Pronaya Prosun , Kamp Miriam , Gültas Mehmet , Link Wolfgang , Schmitt Armin Otto
Published: June 2020

Faba bean (Vicia faba) is a grain legume, which is globally grown for both human consumption as well as feed for livestock. Despite its agro-ecological importance the usage of Vicia faba is severely hampered by its anti-nutritive seed-compounds vicine and convicine (V+C). The genes responsible for a low V+C content have not yet been identified. In this study, we aim to computationally identify regulatory SNPs (rSNPs), i.e., SNPs in promoter regions of genes that are deemed to govern the V+C content of Vicia faba. For this purpose we first trained a deep learning model with the gene annotations of seven related species of the Leguminosae family. Applying our model, we predicted putative promoters in a partial genome of Vicia faba that we assembled from genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) data. Exploiting the synteny between Medicago truncatula and Vicia faba, we identified two rSNPs which are statistically significantly associated with V+C content. In particular, the allele substitutions regarding these rSNPs result in dramatic changes of the binding sites of the transcription factors (TFs) MYB4, MYB61, and SQUA. The knowledge about TFs and their rSNPs may enhance our understanding of the regulatory programs controlling V+C content of Vicia faba and could provide new hypotheses for future breeding programs.
Ultra-Deep DNA Methylation Analysis of X-Linked Genes: GLA and AR as Model Genes
Authors: De Riso Giulia , Cuomo Mariella , Di Risi Teodolinda , Della Monica Rosa , Buonaiuto Michela , Costabile Davide , Pisani Antonio , Cocozza Sergio , Chiariotti Lorenzo
Published: June 2020

Recessive X-linked disorders may occasionally evolve in clinical manifestations of variable severity also in female carriers. For some of such diseases, the frequency of the symptoms’ appearance during women’s life may be particularly relevant. This phenomenon has been largely attributed to the potential skewness of the X-inactivation process leading to variable phenotypes. Nonetheless, in many cases, no correlation with X-inactivation unbalance was demonstrated. However, methods for analyzing skewness have been mainly limited to Human Androgen Receptor methylation analysis (HUMARA). Recently, the X-inactivation process has been largely revisited, highlighting the heterogeneity existing among loci in the epigenetic state within inactive and, possibly, active X-chromosomes. We reasoned that gene-specific and ultra-deep DNA methylation analyses could greatly help to unravel details of the X-inactivation process and the roles of specific X genes inactivation in disease manifestations. We recently provided evidence that studying DNA methylation at specific autosomic loci at a single-molecule resolution (epiallele distribution analysis) allows one to analyze cell-to-cell methylation differences in a given cell population. We here apply the epiallele analysis at two X-linked loci to investigate whether females show allele-specific epiallelic patterns. Due to the high potential of this approach, the method allows us to obtain clearly distinct allele-specific epiallele profiles.
Quality of Life in Older Adults with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Authors: Park Sewon , Ryu Jeong-min , Lee Munjae
Published: June 2020

The purpose of this study is to identify factors that affect health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of older patients with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) and suggest ways to improve the same. Through this, we will improve the self-management practice of patients and promote the treatment of BPH in older patients. The 2015 Korea Health Panel Survey data were used in this study. A total of 422 BPH patients aged 65 or older were included. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify factors affecting the HRQOL of older patients with BPH. General characteristics of factors affecting older patients with BPH included income level and type of insurance. In addition, among medical-related characteristics and health behavior factors, subjective health status, unmet medical care needs, moderate physical activity, sitting time, and drinking influenced the HRQOL. Therefore, in order to improve the HRQOL of adult patients with BPH, it is necessary to improve medical accessibility by strengthening primary care. In addition, it is necessary to increase the amount of activity in daily life through healthcare medical devices.
Tomato Breeding for Sustainable Crop Systems: High Levels of Zingiberene Providing Resistance to Multiple Arthropods
Authors: Oliveira João Ronaldo Freitas de , Resende Juliano Tadeu Vilela de , Filho Renato Barros de Lima , Roberto Sergio Ruffo , Silva Paulo Roberto da , Rech Caroline , Nardi Cristiane
Published: June 2020

In sustainable cropping systems, the management of herbivorous arthropods is a challenge for the high performance of the tomato crop. One way to reduce the damage caused by these pests is the use of resistant cultivars within a sustainable integrated management system. The host selection of Tetranychus urticae, Bemisia tabaci, and Tuta absoluta was evaluated, characterizing their preference among the tomato genotypes RVTZ2011-79-503-143, RVTZ2011-79-335-164, RVTZ2011-79-185-250 (high zingiberene content—HZC), and RVTZ2011-79-117-273 (low zingiberene content—LZC). Such genotypes were selected in the F2BC2 generation (the F2 generation of the 2th backcross towards Solanum lycopersicum after the inicial interspecific cross S. lycopersicum × S. habrochaites var. hirsutum), resulting from crossing Solanum habrochaites var. hirsutum PI-127826 (HZC and resistant to mites) and the commercial cv. Redenção (S. lycopersicum) (LZC and susceptible to mites). In choice and no-choice bioassays by T. urticae, and in choice bioassays by B. tabaci and T. absoluta, arthropods preferred to stay and oviposit in an LZC genotype. In contrast, genotypes with HZC showed repellency to pests and induced a non-preference for oviposition. The F2BC2 genotypes selected for HZC are considered sources of resistance genes to these pests for tomato breeding programs, and therefore have excellent potential for sustainable cropping systems. These results represent an advance in obtaining tomato genetic materials which can be used in sustainable production systems with less loss from pests.
Assessing the Relationship between Autonomy Support and Student Group Cohesion across Ibero-American Countries
Authors: Moreno-Murcia Juan Antonio , Huéscar Hernández Elisa , Cid Luís , Monteiro Diogo , Rodrigues Filipe , Teixeira Diogo , M. López-Walle Jeanette , Vergara-Torres Argenis , Tristan José , Gastélum-Cuadras Gabriel , Guedea Delgado Julio Cesar , Soto Peña Juan Luis , Rentería Iván , Vargas Vitoria Rodrigo , Almonacid Fierro Aquiles Alejandro , Valero-Valenzuela Alfonso , Flandez Jorge , Nodari Júnior Rudy José , Fin Gracielle , Calomeni Mauricio Rocha , Martins de Souza Divaldo , de Souza Santos César Augusto
Published: June 2020

Teacher-endorsed supporting behaviors present themselves as key influencers of student adaptive academic and social functions. The objective of this paper was twofold. First, this study sought to test a model in which student-perceived autonomy support was associated with group cohesion, considering the mediating role of basic psychological needs satisfaction and intrinsic motivation. Second, the current study examined the dimensionality of the model across five Western countries, namely Spain, Portugal, Brazil, Chile, and Mexico. A convenience sample of 3033 college students (Mage = 21.51 ± SD = 3.71) were recruited for the analysis. The results revealed that perceived autonomy support was positively associated with needs satisfaction, being consequently associated with intrinsic motivation and, ultimately, with group cohesion. Additionally, a multigroup analysis revealed that the model was invariant across college students from the different countries. The current results are discussed around the promotion of teacher uses of autonomy-supportive behaviors fostering adaptive outcomes in students regarding positive social relations and that the cultures of Ibero-American countries are equivalent in this process.
Food and Nutrition-Related Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices among Reproductive-age Women in Marginalized Areas in Sri Lanka
Authors: Weerasekara Permani C. , Withanachchi Chandana R. , Ginigaddara G. A. S. , Ploeger Angelika
Published: June 2020

Nutrient deficiencies are a public health problem in Sri Lanka. Achieving food security is a major challenge due to unhealthy eating patterns. The nutritional status of a woman and her knowledge is a powerful indicator of the nutritional security of her children and household food security. Nutrition-related knowledge and attitude are necessary for dietary changes towards a healthier dietary pattern. For that reason, food and nutrition-related Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) is one of the key factors to achieving household food and nutritional security. The main objective of this study is to assess the food and nutrition-related KAP among reproductive-age women and understanding of household food and nutritional security in Sri Lanka as an example for marginalized societies. Thus, a cross-sectional survey was conducted using the KAP model questionnaire administered on 400 reproductive age women (18–49 Years) in marginalized areas in Sri Lanka. Data were collected using a random sampling method. The research results clearly showed that the reproductive age women have a low level of nutritional knowledge in the areas being investigated. Most women have a positive attitude towards receiving nutritional knowledge but have low-level practice about a healthy diet. Furthermore, knowledge, practices, and attitudes of women largely affect their BMI status, as well as household food security. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to analyze the influential factors. There was a highly significant positive correlation between nutritional knowledge, attitude score, and BMI level and a significant difference was found in the area, age, family size, monthly income, educational level, attitudes towards nutrition, food and nutrition practices across the reproductive women (R2: 467, p < 0.01). The research results showed that KAP largely determines women’s nutrition and household food security. Based on the results of this research, there is a need to enhance nutritional education in reproductive-age women in marginalized areas in Sri Lanka.
Hair Cortisol Concentrations as a Biological Marker of Maternal Prenatal Stress: A Systematic Review
Authors: Kim Mi-Young , Kim Go-Un , Son Hae-Kyoung
Published: June 2020

Recently, biological markers of maternal prenatal stress, hair cortisol, along with saliva, blood, and urine cortisol, have received attention. However, it is necessary to validate measuring hair cortisol concentrations (HCC) as a biomarker of perceived stress among healthy and high-risk pregnant women. This study aimed to confirm the correlation between HCC and the perceived stress of pregnant women over 18 years of age. In this systematic review, we used various search engines to extract relevant articles using specific keywords related to pregnancy, hair cortisol, and psychological stress. Four out of 3639 studies met the inclusion criteria. We conducted a quality assessment with the help of three independent reviewers using the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) statement. The correlation between HCC and perceived stress was confirmed in one study. There was only one study on hair washing, shampoo, conditioner, and hair structure that could affect hair samples. In four studies, hair samples differed in length, methods of storage, and laboratory analysis. The review was limited to confirming the relationship between HCC and perceived stress in pregnant women based on the current evidence. Studies on hair cortisol need regulated and standardized methods for collection, storage, and analysis of hair samples.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Adolescent Parents on Free Sugar and Influencing Factors about Recognition
Authors: Tang Qiong , Lin Qian , Yang Qiping , Sun Minghui , Liu Hanmei , Yang Lina
Published: June 2020

Physiological problems caused by excessive intake of free sugar have been concerning important public health issues, especially the impact on adolescents. The World Health Organization (WHO) strongly recommends controlling daily sugar intake in order to reduce the stress caused by high sugar uptake. Finding out the factors that affect adolescents’ sugar intake will help further interventions to control the intake of sugar. Therefore, we conducted a cross-sectional study among 10 middle schools in Changsha, the capital of Hunan province. Two classes of the first and second grades were randomly selected from each school, and their parents in these classes participated in the survey. Questionnaires were used to access the status of adolescent parents’ knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) towards free sugar. Out of 1136 valid participants, 70.4% of respondents were female with the mean (Standard Deviation) age of 41.76 (±5.27) years. They had a good attitude but relatively poor knowledge and behavior towards free sugar. Binary logistic regression analysis found that parents whose gender is female, with a high education level and a girl as their child, hold a high level of free sugar recognition. These findings could help free sugar control interventions for adolescents in the future.
Towards More Sustainable Food Systems—14 Lessons Learned
Authors: Kusch-Brandt Sigrid
Published: June 2020

Food production, processing, distribution and consumption are among the major contributors to global environmental change. At the same time, food systems need to effectively respond to the demands of a growing world population, and already today many communities and individuals are affected by food insecurity. Moving towards sustainable food value chains is one of the greatest and most complex challenges of this century. To explore promising solutions and specific problems in this context, and to discuss achieved progress, this Special Issue of the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health was initiated. The publications enrich our knowledge about essential changes required in the food systems, such as more effective food distribution, avoidance or valorisation of food waste and less meat consumption. Knowing what to change and knowing how to actually achieve such change are two different themes. It becomes evident that there is still an incomplete picture regarding how innovations in the food system can be strengthened to catalyse transformations at a larger scale. Grassroot initiatives require more supporting efforts to effectively influence policies, and the lack of coordination among civil society initiates must be overcome. Sustainability-oriented companies in food supply chains also have a major role to play.
An NS-3 Implementation and Experimental Performance Analysis of IEEE 802.15.6 Standard under Different Deployment Scenarios
Authors: Kim Beom-Su , Sung Tae-Eung , Kim Ki-Il
Published: June 2020

Various simulation studies for wireless body area networks (WBANs) based on the IEEE 802.15.6 standard have recently been carried out. However, most of these studies have applied a simplified model without using any major components specific to IEEE 802.15.6, such as connection-oriented link allocations, inter-WBAN interference mitigation, or a two-hop star topology extension. Thus, such deficiencies can lead to an inaccurate performance analysis. To solve these problems, in this study, we conducted a comprehensive review of the major components of the IEEE 802.15.6 standard and herein present modeling strategies for implementing IEEE 802.15.6 MAC on an NS-3 simulator. In addition, we configured realistic network scenarios for a performance evaluation in terms of throughput, average delay, and power consumption. The simulation results prove that our simulation system provides acceptable levels of performance for various types of medical applications, and can support the latest research topics regarding the dynamic resource allocation, inter-WBAN interference mitigation, and intra-WBAN routing.
Weighted Ensemble Object Detection with Optimized Coefficients for Remote Sensing Images
Authors: Körez Atakan , Barışçı Necaattin , Çetin Aydın , Ergün Uçman
Published: June 2020

The detection of objects in very high-resolution (VHR) remote sensing images has become increasingly popular with the enhancement of remote sensing technologies. High-resolution images from aircrafts or satellites contain highly detailed and mixed backgrounds that decrease the success of object detection in remote sensing images. In this study, a model that performs weighted ensemble object detection using optimized coefficients is proposed. This model uses the outputs of three different object detection models trained on the same dataset. The model’s structure takes two or more object detection methods as its input and provides an output with an optimized coefficient-weighted ensemble. The Northwestern Polytechnical University Very High Resolution 10 (NWPU-VHR10) and Remote Sensing Object Detection (RSOD) datasets were used to measure the object detection success of the proposed model. Our experiments reveal that the proposed model improved the Mean Average Precision (mAP) performance by 0.78%–16.5% compared to stand-alone models and presents better mean average precision than other state-of-the-art methods (3.55% higher on the NWPU-VHR-10 dataset and 1.49% higher when using the RSOD dataset).
A Change of Theme: The Role of Generalization in Thematic Mapping
Authors: Raposo Paulo , Touya Guillaume , Bereuter Pia
Published: June 2020

Cartographic generalization research has focused almost exclusively in recent years on topographic mapping, and has thereby gained an incorrect reputation for having to do only with reference or positional data. The generalization research community needs to broaden its scope to include thematic cartography and geovisualization. Generalization is not new to these areas of cartography, and has in fact always been involved in thematic geographic visualization, despite rarely being acknowledged. We illustrate this involvement with several examples of famous, public-audience thematic maps, noting the generalization procedures involved in drawing each, both across their basemap and thematic layers. We also consider, for each map example we note, which generalization operators were crucial to the formation of the map’s thematic message. The many incremental gains made by the cartographic generalization research community while treating reference data can be brought to bear on thematic cartography in the same way they were used implicitly on the well-known thematic maps we highlight here as examples.
Anti-Citrullinated Protein Antibodies in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis: Biological Effects and Mechanisms of Immunopathogenesis
Authors: Wu Chao-Yi , Yang Huang-Yu , Lai Jenn-Haung
Published: June 2020

Individuals with high anti-citrullinated protein antibody (ACPA) titers have an increased risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Although our knowledge of the generation and production of ACPAs has continuously advanced during the past decade, our understanding on the pathogenic mechanisms of how ACPAs interact with immune cells to trigger articular inflammation is relatively limited. Citrullination disorders drive the generation and maintenance of ACPAs, with profound clinical significance in patients with RA. The loss of tolerance to citrullinated proteins, however, is essential for ACPAs to exert their pathogenicity. N-linked glycosylation, cross-reactivity and the structural interactions of ACPAs with their citrullinated antigens further direct their biological functions. Although questions remain in the pathogenicity of ACPAs acting as agonists for a receptor-mediated response, immune complex (IC) formation, complement system activation, crystallizable fragment gamma receptor (FcγR) activation, cross-reactivity to joint cartilage and neutrophil extracellular trap (NET)-related mechanisms have all been suggested recently. This paper presents a critical review of the characteristics and possible biological effects and mechanisms of the immunopathogenesis of ACPAs in patients with RA.
The Effect of Sodium Bicarbonate, a Beneficial Adjuvant Molecule in Cystic Fibrosis, on Bronchial Epithelial Cells Expressing a Wild-Type or Mutant CFTR Channel
Authors: Gróf Ilona , Bocsik Alexandra , Harazin András , Santa-Maria Ana Raquel , Vizsnyiczai Gaszton , Barna Lilla , Kiss Lóránd , Fűr Gabriella , Rakonczay Zoltán , Ambrus Rita , Szabó-Révész Piroska , Gosselet Fabien , Jaikumpun Pongsiri , Szabó Hajnalka , Zsembery Ákos , Deli Mária A.
Published: June 2020

Clinical and experimental results with inhaled sodium bicarbonate as an adjuvant therapy in cystic fibrosis (CF) are promising due to its mucolytic and bacteriostatic properties, but its direct effect has not been studied on respiratory epithelial cells. Our aim was to establish and characterize co-culture models of human CF bronchial epithelial (CFBE) cell lines expressing a wild-type (WT) or mutant (deltaF508) CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) channel with human vascular endothelial cells and investigate the effects of bicarbonate. Vascular endothelial cells induced better barrier properties in CFBE cells as reflected by the higher resistance and lower permeability values. Activation of CFTR by cAMP decreased the electrical resistance in WT but not in mutant CFBE cell layers confirming the presence and absence of functional channels, respectively. Sodium bicarbonate (100 mM) was well-tolerated by CFBE cells: it slightly reduced the impedance of WT but not that of the mutant CFBE cells. Sodium bicarbonate significantly decreased the more-alkaline intracellular pH of the mutant CFBE cells, while the barrier properties of the models were only minimally changed. These observations indicate that sodium bicarbonate is beneficial to deltaF508-CFTR expressing CFBE cells. Thus, sodium bicarbonate may have a direct therapeutic effect on the bronchial epithelium.
Heterologous Expression of Nitrate Assimilation Related-Protein DsNAR2.1/NRT3.1 Affects Uptake of Nitrate and Ammonium in Nitrogen-Starved Arabidopsis
Authors: Ma Hongping , Zhao Junchao , Feng Shuang , Qiao Kun , Gong Shufang , Wang Jingang , Zhou Aimin
Published: June 2020

Nitrogen (N) is an essential macronutrient for plant growth. Plants absorb and utilize N mainly in the form of nitrate (NO3−) or ammonium (NH4+). In this study, the nitrate transporter DsNRT3.1 (also known as the nitrate assimilation-related protein DsNAR2.1) was characterized from Dianthus spiculifolius. A quantitative PCR (qPCR) analysis showed that the DsNRT3.1 expression was induced by NO3−. Under N-starvation conditions, the transformed Arabidopsis seedlings expressing DsNRT3.1 had longer roots and a greater fresh weight than the wild type. Subcellular localization showed that DsNRT3.1 was mainly localized to the plasma membrane in Arabidopsis root hair cells. Non-invasive micro-test (NMT) monitoring showed that the root hairs of N-starved transformed Arabidopsis seedlings had a stronger NO3− and NH4+ influx than the wild-type seedlings, using with NO3− or NH4+ as the sole N source; contrastingly, transformed seedlings only had a stronger NO3− influx when NO3− and NH4+ were present simultaneously. In addition, the qPCR analysis showed that the expression of AtNRT2 genes (AtNRT2.1–2.6), and particularly of AtNRT2.5, in the transformed Arabidopsis differed from that in the wild type. Overall, our results suggest that the heterologous expression of DsNRT3.1 affects seedlings’ growth by enhancing the NO3− and NH4+ uptake in N-starved Arabidopsis. This may be related to the differential expression of AtNRT2 genes.
Plant Selection for the Establishment of Push–Pull Strategies for Zea mays–Spodoptera frugiperda Pathosystem in Morelos, Mexico
Authors: Guera Ouorou Ganni Mariel , Castrejón-Ayala Federico , Robledo Norma , Jiménez-Pérez Alfredo , Sánchez-Rivera Georgina
Published: June 2020

Regulations imposed on the use of chemical insecticides call for the development of environmental-friendly pest management strategies. One of the most effective strategies is the push–pull system, which takes advantage of the behavioral response of the insect to the integration of repellent stimuli; it expels the pest out of the main crop (push), while attracting stimuli (attractants) pull the pest to an alternative crop or trap (pull). The objective of this study was to design a push–pull system to control Spodoptera frugiperda in maize crops (Zea mays) in Morelos, Mexico. Data on reproductive potential, larvae development, food consumption and olfactometry were used to obtain a Trap Plant Selection Index (TRAPS) based on Principal Component Analysis. This TRAPS was used to select the most suitable plants. The degree of repellency of potential plants to be used as the trap crop was studied with four-way olfactometers. S. frugiperda females oviposited more eggs on Brachiaria hybrid cv. Mulato II, Panicum maximum cv. Mombasa and Panicum maximum cv. Tanzania than on Z. mays, regardless of the fact that these plants delayed the development of their offspring. Dysphania ambrosioides, Tagetes erecta and Crotalaria juncea were less attractive to S. frugiperda females. Therefore, the former plants could be used as crop traps, and the latter as intercropped repellent plants in a push–pull system.
Limited Effect of Management on Apple Pollination: A Case Study from an Oceanic Island
Authors: Pardo Adara , Lopes David H. , Fierro Natalia , Borges Paulo A. V.
Published: June 2020

Intensive agricultural practices leading to habitat degradation represent a major threat to pollinators. Diverse management practices are expected to influence wild pollinator abundance and richness on farms, although their effect in perennial crops is still unclear. In this study, we assessed the impact of management on apple (Malus domestica) pollination on an oceanic island, by comparing conventional (with and without herbicide application) and organic apple orchards. Pollinator visitation and pan trap surveys were carried out in six apple orchards in Terceira Island (Azores) and the landscape composition surrounding orchards was characterized. We also quantified fruit set, seed set and apple weight. We found no significant effect of management on insect visitation rates, whereas there was a negative association with increasing surrounding agricultural land. In contrast, management had an effect on species abundance, richness and diversity at the orchard level. Conventional orchards without herbicides showed higher abundance than the rest, but lower richness and diversity than conventional orchards with herbicides. Management had an effect on fruit set, but not on seed set or fruit weight. Our results suggest that management alone is insufficient for the overall improvement of apple pollination on an oceanic island, while landscape composition may play a relevant role.
A Morphometric Analysis of Platelet Dense Granules of Patients with Unexplained Bleeding: A New Entity of Delta-Microgranular Storage Pool Deficiency
Authors: Gunning William T. , Raghavan Meera , Calomeni Edward P. , Turner James N. , Roysam Bodri , Roysam Shantala , Smith Mary R. , Kouides Peter A. , Lachant Neil A.
Published: June 2020

One thousand and eighty patients, having prolonged bleeding times, frequent epistaxis, menorrhagia or easy bruising or other bleeding manifestations, and excluding those with von Willebrand’s disease, were evaluated for platelet dense granule deficiency. The mean diameter of platelet dense granules was determined for all patients using image analysis. Four hundred and ninety-nine had “classic” dense (delta) granule storage pool deficiency (δ-SPD). Five hundred and eighty-one individuals (53.8%) were found to have a normal mean number of dense granules, but for some of these patients, the dense granules were smaller than for the controls. Of the patients having a normal number of dense granules, 165 (28.4%) were found to have significantly smaller granules than the platelets obtained from the control subjects. Their average granule diameter was 123.35 ± 0.86 nm, that is more than three standard deviations below the mean of the control data. Total δ-granule storage pool volumes (TDGV)/platelet were calculated using these measurements. Individuals with δ-SPD had half the number of granules (2.25 ± 0.04 DG/PL) and storage pool volume (3.88 ± 1.06 × 106 nm3) when compared to our control data (4.64 ± 0.11 DG/PL; 10.79 × 106 nm3 ± 0.42). Individuals having a bleeding history but a normal average of small dense granules had a calculated storage pool volume statistically different than controls and essentially the same storage pool volume as patients with δ-SPD. We have identified a sub-classification of δ-SPD that we have defined as micro-granular storage pool deficiency (δ-MGSPD).
Pre-Operative Combination of Normal BMI with Elevated YKL-40 and Leptin but Lower Adiponectin Level Is Linked to a Higher Risk of Breast Cancer Relapse: A Report of Four-Year Follow-Up Study
Authors: Bielawski Kornel , Rhone Piotr , Bulsa Marek , Ruszkowska-Ciastek Barbara
Published: June 2020

Adipokines are powerful agents involved in the development of obesity-dependent cancers. This prospective study aimed to investigate the association between pre-treatment body mass index (BMI) and serum YKL-40, leptin, and adiponectin concentrations as well as the plasma activity of tissue factor (TF) and the future prognosis of early, non-metastatic breast cancer (BrC) subjects. The serum levels of YKL-40, leptin, and adiponectin as well as plasma TF activity, anthropometric parameters, and clinicopathological parameters were analysed in 81 treatment-naïve females with invasive BrC. The predictive value of YKL-40, BMI, leptin, adiponectin, and TF was determined with a 95% confidence interval (CI). Kaplan–Meier plots and log-rank and F Cox tests were used to determine the clinical outcomes of progression-free survival (PFS). The median follow-up duration was 44 months with complete follow-up for the first event. Follow-up revealed a significantly higher incidence of disease relapse in BrC patients with a high baseline concentration of YKL-40 (22.22%) and TF activity (21.43%). Body mass index was an independent predictor of survival, with women who were overweight/obese being less prone to relapse (hazard ratio (HR): 0.75; 95% CI: 0.59 to 0.95). The recurrence rates for normal-weight BrC cases was 21.05% versus 7.14% for their overweight counterparts. The receiver operating characteristic analysis showed the strong ability of the analysed biomarkers to predict disease progression, with an area under the receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve of 0.84 (95% CI, 0.823 to 0.931). In a prospective cohort of invasive BrC patients, overweight/obesity was associated with improved future outcomes. The combination of a normal BMI with high leptin and low adiponectin levels and high TF activity was associated with an increased risk of recurrence and decreased survival.
Prognostic Value of Early Intermittent Electroencephalography in Patients after Extracorporeal Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
Authors: Kim Yong Oh , Ko Ryoung-Eun , Chung Chi Ryang , Yang Jeong Hoon , Park Taek Kyu , Cho Yang Hyun , Sung Kiick , Suh Gee Young , Ryu Jeong-Am
Published: June 2020

The aim of this study was to investigate whether early intermittent electroencephalography (EEG) could be used to predict neurological prognosis of patients who underwent extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR). This was a retrospective and observational study of adult patients who were evaluated by EEG scan within 96 h after ECPR. The primary endpoint was neurological status upon discharge from the hospital assessed with a Cerebral Performance Categories (CPC) scale. Among 69 adult cardiac arrest patients who underwent ECPR, 17 (24.6%) patients had favorable neurological outcomes (CPC score of 1 or 2). Malignant EEG patterns were more common in patients with poor neurological outcomes (CPC score of 3, 4 or 5) than in patients with favorable neurological outcomes (73.1% vs. 5.9%, p < 0.001). All patients with highly malignant EEG patterns (43.5%) had poor neurological outcomes. In multivariable analysis, malignant EEG patterns and duration of cardiopulmonary resuscitation were significantly associated with poor neurological outcomes. In this study, malignant EEG patterns within 96 h after cardiac arrest were significantly associated with poor neurological outcomes. Therefore, an early intermittent EEG scan could be helpful for predicting neurological prognosis of post-cardiac arrest patients after ECPR.
Modeling of Autonomous Underwater Vehicles with Multi-Propellers Based on Maximum Likelihood Method
Authors: Min Feiyan , Pan Guoliang , Xu Xuefeng
Published: June 2020

The hydrodynamic characteristics of multi-propeller autonomous underwater vehicles (AUV) is usually complicated and it is difficult to obtain an accurate mathematical model. A modeling method based on CFD calculation and maximum likelihood identification algorithm is proposed for this problem. Firstly, rough hydrodynamic parameters of AUV hull are obtained by CFD calculation. Secondly, on the basis of rough parameters, a maximum likelihood identification algorithm is proposed to adjust the parameters and improve the model precision. Besides, the method to improve the convergence of identification algorithm is analyzed by considering the characteristics of AUV model structure. Finally, the identification algorithm and identification results were validated with experimental data. It was found that this method has good convergence and adaptability. In particular, the identification results of turning force and torque parameters are highly consistent in different identification experiments, which indicates that this method can well extract the maneuvering characteristics of AUVs, thus contributing to the controller design of AUVs. The research of this paper has potential application for the modeling and control of multi-propeller AUVs.
Compact Low-Velocity Ocean Current Energy Harvester Using Magnetic Couplings for Long-Term Scientific Seafloor Observation
Authors: Huang Longxiang , Lyu Feng
Published: June 2020

A compact low-velocity ocean current energy harvester (LOCH) is developed to power undersea instrument platforms for long-term scientific seafloor observation. Noncontact magnetic couplings are used in the LOCH to eliminate friction and achieve reliable underwater sealing so that the LOCH can adapt the low-velocity ocean current and its energy transmission efficiency can be improved. The parameters of the magnetic couplings are optimized by the three-dimensional finite-element method (3D FEM). A laboratory experiment platform is designed; and the static and dynamic performances of the magnetic couplings with different parameters are tested. The experiment results are compared with computer simulations to verify the optimal parameter design. Finally; a prototype of the LOCH is designed and its underwater experiment proves that it can start smoothly and work stably at a current velocity of as low as 0.4 m/s
Saccharomyces boulardii: What Makes It Tick as Successful Probiotic?
Authors: Pais Pedro , Almeida Vanda , Yılmaz Melike , Teixeira Miguel C.
Published: June 2020

Saccharomyces boulardii is a probiotic yeast often used for the treatment of GI tract disorders such as diarrhea symptoms. It is genetically close to the model yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae and its classification as a distinct species or a S. cerevisiae variant has long been discussed. Here, we review the main genetic divergencies between S. boulardii and S. cerevisiae as a strategy to uncover the ability to adapt to the host physiological conditions by the probiotic. S. boulardii does possess discernible phenotypic traits and physiological properties that underlie its success as probiotic, such as optimal growth temperature, resistance to the gastric environment and viability at low pH. Its probiotic activity has been elucidated as a conjunction of multiple pathways, ranging from improvement of gut barrier function, pathogen competitive exclusion, production of antimicrobial peptides, immune modulation, and trophic effects. This review summarizes the participation of S. boulardii in these mechanisms and the multifactorial nature by which this yeast modulates the host microbiome and intestinal function.
Towards an Optimal IPO Mechanism
Authors: Huibers Fred E.
Published: June 2020

Concerns about the negative consequences of the excessive underpricing of the current arrangement in the initial public offering (IPO) market for the provision of entrepreneurial finance—book building—have led to research into the viability of auctions for IPO pricing and allocation. IPO firms face a trade-off between the benefit of accurate and reliable IPO price discovery and the cost of underpricing. The main aim of this paper was to gain new scientific knowledge about this trade-off by measuring the impact of two key variables on this trade-off: capacity restraint and discount on the auction clearing price. Using controlled experiment methodology in multi-unit uniform price auctions we found that the most capacity-restricted auctions that also offer investors a discount are likely to produce the most accurate and reliable price discovery and consequently, the most predictable auction outcome. There are indications that a discount of 8% may suffice to incentivize investors to reliably contribute to price discovery. The resulting underpricing (and its variability) of these auctions is likely to be significantly lower than if book building would be used to price and allocate IPOs. Technological innovation in the IPO market through the application of recent advances in data science, experimental economics and artificial intelligence allows for the optimization of IPO mechanisms and crowdfunding platforms which in turn improves the access to equity required for entrepreneurial finance.