bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
WRITTEN SPEECH OF THE “DIGITAL PERSON”: ONTOGENESIS, STRATEGIES, CONSTRUCTION OF IDENTITY
Authors:   Ulyanovsk State Pedagogical University named after I.N. Ulyanov, Lipatova Antonina P.
Published: October 2020

The work is based on the analysis of the processes taking place in the written speech of a modern teenager in the digital age. Representatives of the Y generation mastered communication skills on the Internet after mastering the main genres of written speech. The so-called buzzers learn the skills of writing and the basics of computer-mediated communication almost simultaneously. The changes outlined in the speech culture of a modern adolescent require close attention. The work is based on works on psycholinguistics by L. Vygotsky, N. Zhinkina, I. Winter, A. Luria, A. Leontiev, A. Leontiev and others. The publication is intended for specialists in applied linguistics, educational psychologists, as well as for a wide range of readers interested in the issues of ontogenesis and speech characteristics of the i-generation.
Pulse Transit Time and Blood Pressure During Cardiopulmonary Exercise Tests
Authors: WIBMER T. , DOERING K. , KROPF-SANCHEN C. , RÜDIGER S. , BLANTA I. , STOIBER K. M. , ROTTBAUER W. , SCHUMANN C.
Published: October 2020

Pulse transit time (PTT), the interval between ventricular electrical activity and peripheral pulse wave, is assumed to be a surrogate marker for blood pressure (BP) changes. The objective of this study was to analyze PTT and its relation to BP during cardiopulmonary exercise tests (CPET). In 20 patients (mean age 51±18.4 years), ECG and finger-photoplethysmography were continuously recorded during routine CPETs. PTT was calculated for each R-wave in the ECG and the steepest slope of the corresponding upstroke in the plethysmogram. For each subject, linear and non-linear regression models were used to assess the relation between PTT and upper-arm oscillometric BP in 9 predefined measuring points including measurements at rest, during exercise and during recovery. Mean systolic BP (sBP) and PTT at rest were 128 mm Hg and 366 ms respectively, 197 mm Hg and 289 ms under maximum exercise, and 128 mm Hg and 371 ms during recovery. Linear regression showed a significant, strong negative correlation between PTT and sBP. The correlation between PTT and diastolic BP was rather weak. Bland-Altman plots of sBP values estimated by the regression functions revealed slightly better limits of agreements for the non-linear model (–10.9 to 10.9 mm Hg) than for the linear model (−13.2 to 13.1 mm Hg). These results indicate that PTT is a good potential surrogate measure for sBP during exercise and could easily be implemented in CPET as an additional parameter of cardiovascular reactivity. A non-linear approach might be more effective in estimating BP than linear regression.
Effect of Sex Hormones on Plasma Phospholipid Fatty Acid Composition in Intact Rats and Rats With Bilaterally Occluded Carotid Arteries
Authors: PETROVIĆ S. , TAKIĆ M. , ARSIĆ A. , VUČIĆ V. , DRAKULIĆ D. , MILOŠEVIĆ M. , GLIBETIĆ M.
Published: October 2020

The effects of 8-days treatment with 17α-estradiol (33.3 µg/kg) and progesterone (1.7 mg/kg) on plasma lipids and fatty acid composition of plasma phospholipids were examined in intact (INT) and bilaterally common carotid arteries occluded (BCO) male Wistar rats. Significant decrease of triglyceride level was found in BCO rats after the estradiol treatment. Both hormones elevated proportion of 18:1n-7 fatty acid in INT, but they failed to have such an effect in BCO. Estradiol increased 22:5n-3 and total n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in intact, and decreased 18:2n-6 in BCO rats. Significantly lower level of total n-3 was found in progesterone-treated than in estradiol-treated BCO rats. Given that n-3 PUFA have many beneficial effects on cell and tissue function, while n-6 PUFA have mostly the opposite effects, estradiol, rather than progesterone, was seen to improve plasma lipids and phospholipids FA profiles in INT and BCO animals. Estradiol significantly elevated the estimated activity of Δ9-desaturases and progesterone of Δ5-desaturase in BCO group, with no effects in INT rats.
Anemia in Adenine-Induced Chronic Renal Failure and the Influence of Treatment With Gum Acacia Thereon
Authors: ALI B. H. , AL ZA’ABI M. , RAMKUMAR A. , YASIN J. , NEMMAR A.
Published: October 2020

Anemia frequently complicates chronic kidney disease (CKD). We investigated here the effect of adenine-induced CKD in rats on erythrocyte count (EC), hematocrit (PCV) and hemoglobin (Hb) concentration, as well as on the activity of L-γ-glutamyl transferase (GGT) and the concentrations of iron (Fe), transferrin (Tf), ferritin (F), total iron binding capacity (TIBC) / unsaturated iron binding capacity (UIBC) and hepcidin (Hp) in serum and erythropoietin (Epo) in renal tissue. Renal damage was assessed histopathologically, and also by measuring the serum concentrations of the uremic toxin indoxyl sulfate (IS), creatinine, and urea, and by creatinine clearance. We also assessed the influence of concomitant treatment with gum acacia (GA) on the above analytes. Adenine feeding induced CKD, accompanied by significant decreases (P<0.05) in EC, PCV, and Hb, and in the serum concentrations of Fe, Tf, TIBC, UIBC and Epo. It also increased Hp and F levels. GA significantly ameliorated these changes in rats with CKD. A general improvement in the renal status of rats with CKD after GA is shown due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant actions, and reduction of the uremic toxin IS, which is known to suppress Epo production, and this may be a reason for its ameliorative actions on the indices of anemia studied.
Involvement of BKCa and KV Potassium Channels in cAMP-Induced Vasodilatation: Their Insufficient Function in Genetic Hypertension
Authors: PINTÉROVÁ M. , BEHULIAK M. , KUNEŠ J. , ZICHA J.
Published: October 2020

Spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) are characterized by enhanced sympathetic vasoconstriction, whereas their vasodilator mechanisms are relatively attenuated compared to their high BP. The objective of our in vivo study was to evaluate whether the impaired function of BKCa and/or KV channels is responsible for abnormal cAMP-induced vasodilatation in genetic hypertension. Using conscious SHR and normotensive WKY rats we have shown that under the basal conditions cAMP overproduction elicited by the infusion of β-adrenoceptor agonist (isoprenaline) caused a more pronounced decrease of baseline blood pressure (BP) in SHR compared to WKY rats. Isoprenaline infusion prevented BP rises induced by acute NO synthase blockade in both strains and it also completely abolished the fully developed BP response to NO synthase blockade. These cAMP-induced vasodilator effects were diminished by the inhibition of either BKCa or KV channels in SHR but simultaneous blockade of both K+ channel types was necessary in WKY rats. Under basal conditions, the vasodilator action of both K+ channels was enhanced in SHR compared to WKY rats. However, the overall contribution of K+ channels to cAMP-induced vasodilator mechanisms is insufficient in genetic hypertension since a concurrent activation of both K+ channels by cAMP overproduction is necessary for the prevention of BP rise elicited by acute NO/cGMP deficiency in SHR. This might be caused by less effective activation of these K+ channels by cAMP in SHR. In conclusion, K+ channels seem to have higher activity in SHR, but their vasodilator action cannot match sufficiently the augmented vasoconstriction in this hypertensive strain.
Clinical and psychological features of pain syndrome in multiple myeloma
Authors: Zyrina G. V. , Slyusar T. A.
Published: October 2020

Objective. To study the clinical and psychological features of pain syndrome in multiple myeloma.

Materials and methods. Of 95 patients with multiple myeloma, 75 (79,0%) had pain syndrome, 41 (55,0%) had radiculopathy, 20 (27,0%) had polyneuropathy and 14 (19,0%) had ossalgia. The patients were divided into two groups: the first is with moderate pain syndrome (32 patients), the second is with severe pain syndrome (43 patients). The comparison group consisted of 60 patients with vertebrogenic radiculopathy. The severity of pain was assessed on a visual-analog scale (VAS). To study anxiety, we used the C. Spielberger–Y. Hanin test, and the Zung scale for depression. To determine the type of attitude to the disease, the TOBOL method was used.

Results. In patients with multiple myeloma with severe pain syndrome, in comparison with patients with moderate pain syndrome, reactive anxiety, moderate depression, and maladaptive types of attitude to the disease were significantly more frequently registered. Correlation analysis revealed links between the level of reactive anxiety and the level of pain on the VAS scale, between the frequency of occurrence of maladaptive types of attitude to the disease and the level of depression and anxiety.
Correction of endothelial dysfunction in COVID 19
Authors: Teplova N. V. , Grishin D. V.
Published: October 2020

COVID‑19 is acute respiratory infection caused by the new coronavirus SARS-CoV‑2 (2019-nCoV). Until now, the pathogenesis of the virus has not been fully studied, but the global medical practice is dominated by the theory of systemic inflammation as the main damaging factor of viral infection. A special role is given to the study of the state of the endothelium. Understanding the molecular components underlying functional disorders and vascular damage, together with the ability of new laboratory technologies to determine the effect of endothelial damage on the entire body, provides a key to modern treatment strategies. Antihypertensive, antiplatelet drugs and statins are the drugs whose effect on the functional state of the endothelium has been studied most fully.
FEATURES OF PERCEPTION OF THE CARTOGRAPHIC IMAGE ON MAPS AND MOBILE DEVICES
Authors: Utrobina Elena S. , Kokorina Irina P. , Radchenko Lyudmila K. , Molokina Tatyana S.
Published: October 2020

Modern world cannot be imagined without mobile devices, so much attention is paid to research related to the influence of these devices on the perception of information by the user. This article is devoted to the consideration of the features of perception of cartographic images on mobile devices using the means of transmitting geospatial information used in maps. The article considers the classification of types of perception, on the basis of which a study was conducted on their correlation with the means used to display the cartographic image. Since modern mobile technologies make it possible to obtain cartographic information with the help of visual, audio, tactile perception, and also provide the possibility to teel space, movement and time, the map in conjunction with these types of perception becomes more intuitive. Modern means of transmitting geospatial information affect various analyzers, which contributes to improving the quality of transmission of user-perceptible information when reading a map. This allows us to speale about the expansion of the functions of cartographic images when displaying them on mobile devices.
DEVELOPMENT OF MOBILE APPLICATIONS FOR CREATING EMERGENCY MAPS
Authors: Karmanova Maria V.
Published: October 2020

The article considers features of obtaining operational information from the place of emergency. Modern mobile applications for emergency response services are described. Their shortcomings are revealed. The list of studied documents is given, and repeated elements are identified. The mechanisms for making additional classifications of emergencies are explained. Examples of these are given. The main principles of mobile applications development are listed. Requirements for metadata of files containing photo and video information were developed.
HOW «REGULATORY GUILLOTINE» WILL AFFECT ON METROLOGICAL SERVICES OF PRODUCTION COMPANIES?
Authors: Shakalov Konstantin A. , Matveev Alexander N. , Petrukha Alexey A.
Published: October 2020

The article discusses the concept of “regulatory guillotine” and how its realization in the Russian Federation will affect on the field of assurance of measurement uniformity. According to the principles of the “guillotine”, regulatory requirements that negatively affect the existence and development of entrepreneurial activity should be identified and either completely eliminated or maximally simplified. The Government of the Russian Federation has developed an action plan (“roadmap”) for the realization of the “regulatory guillotine” mechanism, according to which all obsolete regulations will be repealed or no longer valid in the territory of the Russian Federation, and new ones will be developed in their place, corresponding to actual trends and realities . In addition, new systems of legal regulation will be built in the relevant areas of activity, based on the principles of openness, scientific and technical soundness, risk-based orientation, proportionality and feasibility. Since field of assurance of measurement uniformity is inextricably linked with most fields: from production and labor productivity, to ensuring defense capabilities and national security, any reforms will affect on the country's social and economic development.
Agronomic Biofortification with Selenium in Tomato Crops (Solanum lycopersicon L. Mill)
Authors: Rahim Foroughbakhch Pournavab , Rocio Castillo Godina , Adalberto Benavides Mendoza , Lidia Rosaura Salas Cruz , Maginot Ngangyo Heya
Published: October 2020

Biofortification aims to increase the concentration of bioavailable elements in crops, to increase their nutritional quality. Selenium is a trace element of great impact on the antioxidant metabolism of plants and its accumulation is poor in species such as Solanum lycopersicon, so adding it is part of biofortification programs. The present work analyzes the capacity of sodium selenite (Na2SeO3) to increase the concentration of Selenium in tomatoes plants and fruits. For this, three treatments were applied (0, 2, and 5 mg L−1 of sodium selenite) using irrigation water as a vehicle. 40 days after transplanting, the accumulation of selenium and macronutrients in leaves, stems, and fruits was quantified, as well as their impact on tomato plant productivity. Agronomic variables such as height (cm), diameter (mm) of stems, number and weight (g) of fruits produced were determined. The results were analyzed by ANOVA and later, a Tukey mean comparison test was performed. An increase in the accumulation of Se was observed, being up to 53% in the fruits under the 5 mg L−1 treatment compared to the control. However, this increase did not have a noticeable impact on macronutrient content and tomato yield, but rather, contributed to the improvement of the nutritional quality of the tomato.
The Thin Line between Pathogenicity and Endophytism: The Case of Lasiodiplodia theobromae
Authors: Salvatore Maria Michela , Andolfi Anna , Nicoletti Rosario
Published: October 2020

Many fungi reported for endophytic occurrence are better known as plant pathogens on different crops, raising questions about their actual relationships with the hosts and other plants in the biocoenosis and about the factors underlying the lifestyle shift. This paper offers an overview of the endophytic occurrence of Lasiodiplodia theobromae (Dothideomycetes, Botryosphaeriaceae), a species known to be able to colonize many plants as both an endophyte and a pathogen. Prevalently spread in tropical and subtropical areas, there are concerns that it may propagate to the temperate region following global warming and the increasing trade of plant materials. The state of the art concerning the biochemical properties of endophytic strains of this species is also examined with reference to a range of biotechnological applications.
Dependence of Fresh Grapes and Wine Taste Scores on the Origin of Varieties and Weather Conditions of the Harvest Year in the Northern Zone of Industrial Viticulture in Russia
Authors: Novikova Liubov Yu. , Naumova Lyudmila G.
Published: October 2020

Climate change affects all characteristics of grapes, including the taste of fresh berries and wine. The purpose of this study was to reveal the dependence of fresh grapes taste scores (GS) and wine taste scores (WS) on the origin of the varieties and weather conditions of the harvest year in the northern zone of industrial viticulture in Russia. The material used in the study were taste scores of 232 grape varieties from the Don Ampelographic Collection (47°25′ N 40°03′ E) 1981–2019. The correlation analysis, ANOVA, and regression were used. It was shown that GS negatively correlated with productivity, and WS with the berry mass of variety. In recent decades, GS have increased in groups of varieties of various interspecies origin, and WS have not changed. Regression models revealed that the reason for GS improvement was in the growth of average temperature above 15 °C, while WS varied depending on the sum of precipitation for the period with temperatures above 20 °C, which did not have a reliable trend. Together with data on the growth of grape yield and sugar content, the results indicate that observed climate warming is favorable for grapevine cultivation in the northern zone of industrial viticulture in Russia.
Integrating Cover Crops as a Source of Carbon for Anaerobic Soil Disinfestation
Authors: Vecchia Luca , Di Gioia Francesco , Ferrante Antonio , Hong Jason C. , White Charles , Rosskopf Erin N.
Published: October 2020

The adoption of anaerobic soil disinfestation (ASD), a biologically-based method for the management of soilborne pests and pathogens at the commercial scale strictly depends on the availability of effective and low-cost sources of carbon (C). A three-phase pot study was conducted to evaluate the performance of twelve cover crop species as alternative sources of C in comparison to molasses. Buckwheat produced the greatest above-ground and total plant dry biomass and accumulated the largest amount of total C. In the second phase, simulating the application of ASD in a pot-in-pot system, molasses-amended soil achieved substantially higher levels of anaerobicity, and lowered soil pH at 3 and 7 days after treatment application compared to soil amended with the cover crops tested. In the third phase of the study, after the ASD simulation, lettuce was planted to assess the impact of cover crops and molasses-based ASD on lettuce yield and quality. The treatments had limited effects on lettuce plant growth and quality as none of the treatments caused plant stunting or phytotoxicity. Tested cover crop species and molasses had a significant impact on the availability of macro and micro-elements in the soil, which in turn influenced the uptake of minerals in lettuce. Fast growing cover crops like buckwheat or oat, capable of accumulating high levels of C in a relatively short time, may represent a viable alternative to substitute or be combined with standard C sources like molasses, which could provide an on-farm C source and reduce cost of application. Further research is needed to assess the performance of cover crops at the field scale and verify their decomposability and efficacy in managing soil-borne pests and pathogens.
New Approach to the Assessment of Insecticide Losses from Paddy Fields Based on Frequent Sampling Post Application
Authors: Chen Cheng , Luo Wan , Zou Jiarong , Jia Zhonghua
Published: October 2020

High concentration of insecticides may appear in waters surrounding paddy fields shortly after application. Capturing the dynamic feature of this insecticide pulse may help control insecticide load to receiving waters. Based on continuous monitoring of the drainage process and two monitoring campaigns of three insecticides—chlorpyrifos, abamectin and thiamethoxam—in a paddy, this study examined the pattern of insecticide concentrations at different locations of paddy waters during the period of insecticide application accompanied with pest-control irrigation, and analyzed the factors affecting the environmental behavior of these insecticides. The results showed that the pulse-type drainage exhibited the following features: short duration (normally less than 1 d), large flow rate (as large as 4 L s−1), frequent occurrence (20 times during a 40-d period) and long time interval (as long as 5 d). Concentrations of the insecticides with higher Henry’s constant and vapor pressure peaked quickly (within several hours) post application in the field ditch; more than half of chlorpyrifos and abamectin loads were detected within merely 1 h after application. The high insecticide concentrations in the ditch were partly attributed to the primary and secondary drift. Moreover, a new kinetic model was proposed to describe the behavior of chlorpyrifos at the field edge. It is recommended that controlled drainage be implemented for at least 1 d post application to prevent the loss of insecticides. Findings from this study may provide new insights into insecticide behavior in the paddy environment for preventing adverse environmental impacts.
High Seroprevalence of Antibodies against Arboviruses among Pregnant Women in Rural Caribbean Colombia in the Context of the Zika Virus Epidemic
Authors: Marbán-Castro Elena , Arrieta Germán J. , Martínez Miguel J. , González Raquel , Bardají Azucena , Menéndez Clara , Mattar Salim
Published: October 2020

Mosquito-borne viruses such as dengue (DENV), chikungunya (CHIKV), and Zika (ZIKV) have spread in recent decades. We aimed to assess seroprevalence of arboviral infections in pregnant women living in Cereté, Caribbean Colombia. In 2016 a cross-sectional facility-based sero-survey study was performed among pregnant women (N = 90). Most of them (66%) reported at least one symptom or sign compatible with arboviral infection over the previous 15 days. All screened women had a positive IgG for DENV, 89% for ZIKV, and 82% for CHIKV. One woman tested positive for ZIKV IgM. This study shows the high exposure among pregnant women to arboviruses in endemic areas, shown by the high seroprevalence of past arboviral infections. Given the evidence on the potential risks of these arboviral infections on pregnancy and infant outcomes, these results highlight the need for continuous epidemiological surveillance of arboviral diseases, particularly among those most of risk of their harmful consequences.
Antibiotic Adsorption by Metal-Organic Framework (UiO-66): A Comprehensive Kinetic, Thermodynamic, and Mechanistic Study
Authors: Alsaedi Mossab K. , Alothman Ghada K. , Alnajrani Mohammed N. , Alsager Omar A. , Alshmimri Sultan A. , Alharbi Majed A. , Alawad Majed O. , Alhadlaq Shahad , Alharbi Seetah
Published: October 2020

Bacterial antibiotic resistance has been deemed one of the largest modern threats to human health. One of the root causes of antibiotic resistance is the inability of traditional wastewater management techniques, such as filtration and disinfection, to completely eliminate residual antibiotics from domestic and industrial effluents. In this study, we examine the ability of UiO-66; a metal-organic framework (MOF); in removing the antibiotic Doxycycline from aqueous environments. This study’s findings suggest that UiO-66 was able to remove nearly 90% of the initial Doxycycline concentration. To correlate the isothermal data, Langmuir and Freundlich models were used. It was determined that the Langmuir model was best suited. Pseudo-first and -second order models were examined for kinetic data, where the pseudo-second order model was best suited—consistent with the maximum theoretical adsorption capacity found by the Langumir model. Thermodynamic analysis was also examined by studying UiO-66 adsorption under different temperatures. Mechanisms of adsorption were also analyzed through measuring adsorption at varying pH levels, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Infrared spectroscopy (IR) and Brunauer–Emmet–Teller (BET). This study also explores the possibility of recycling MOFs through exposure to gamma radiation, heat, and heating under low pressure, in order for UiO-66 to be used in multiple, consecutive cycles of Doxycycline removal.
Betaine and Isoquinoline Alkaloids Protect against Heat Stress and Colonic Permeability in Growing Pigs
Authors: Le Hieu Huu , Shakeri Majid , Suleria Hafiz Ansar Rasul , Zhao Weicheng , McQuade Rachel Mai , Phillips Deborah Jayne , Vidacs Eva , Furness John Barton , Dunshea Frank Rowland , Artuso-Ponte Valeria , Cottrell Jeremy James
Published: October 2020

Heat stress (HS) compromises productivity of pork production, in part as a result of increased oxidative stress and inflammatory responses, particularly within the gastrointestinal tract. This study aimed to investigate whether plant-derived betaine and isoquinoline alkaloids could ameliorate HS in pigs. Fifty female Large White × Landrace grower pigs, which were acclimated to control (CON), control plus betaine (BET), or control plus isoquinoline alkaloids (IQA) diets for 14 days were then exposed to heat stress or thermoneutral condition. Both BET and IQA partially ameliorated increases in respiration rate (p = 0.013) and rectal temperature (p = 0.001) associated with HS conditions. Heat stress increased salivary cortisol concentrations and reduced plasma creatinine, lactate, and thyroid hormone concentrations. Heat stress increased colon FD4 permeability, which was reduced by IQA (p = 0.030). Heat stress increased inflammation in the jejunum and ileum, as indicated by elevated interleukin-1β (p = 0.022) in the jejunum and interleukin-1β (p = 0.004) and interleukin-8 (p = 0.001) in the ileum. No differences in plasma total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were observed with HS, but betaine increased plasma TAC compared to IQA. Dietary BET increased betaine concentrations in the jejunum, ileum (p < 0.001 for both), plasma, liver, kidney (p < 0.010 for all), urine (p = 0.002) and tended to be higher in muscle (p = 0.084). Betaine concentration was not influenced by HS, but it tended to be higher in plasma and accumulated in the liver. These data suggest that betaine and isoquinoline alkaloids supplementation ameliorated consequences of heat stress in grower pigs and protected against HS induced increases in colonic permeability.
Defining the Functional Targets of Cap‘n’collar Transcription Factors NRF1, NRF2, and NRF3
Authors: Ibrahim Lara , Mesgarzadeh Jaleh , Xu Ian , Powers Evan T. , Wiseman R. Luke , Bollong Michael J.
Published: October 2020

The NRF transcription factors NRF1, NRF2, and NRF3, are a subset of Cap‘n’collar transcriptional regulators which modulate the expression of genes harboring antioxidant-response element (ARE) sequences within their genomic loci. Despite the emerging physiological importance of NRF family members, the repertoire of their genetic targets remains incompletely defined. Here we use RNA-sequencing-based transcriptional profiling and quantitative proteomics to delineate the overlapping and differential genetic programs effected by the three NRF transcription factors. We then create consensus target gene sets regulated by NRF1, NRF2, and NRF3 and define the integrity of these gene sets for probing NRF activity in mammalian cell culture and human tissues. Together, our data provide a quantitative assessment of how NRF family members sculpt proteomes and transcriptomes, providing a framework to understand the critical physiological importance of NRF transcription factors and to establish pharmacologic approaches for therapeutically activating these transcriptional programs in disease.
Effects of Selenium- and Zinc-Enriched Lactobacillus plantarum SeZi on Antioxidant Capacities and Gut Microbiome in an ICR Mouse Model
Authors: Kang Sini , Li Rui , Jin Hui , You Hyun Ju , Ji Geun Eog
Published: October 2020

Selenium and zinc are essential trace minerals for humans with various biological functions. In this study, selenium- and zinc-tolerant lactic acid bacteria (LAB) isolates were screened out from human fecal samples. Amongst three hundred LAB isolates, the Lactobacillus plantarum SeZi strain displayed the tolerance against selenium and zinc with the greatest biomass production and bioaccumulation of selenium and zinc. To further assess the characteristics of this strain, the lyophilized L. plantarum SeZi were prepared and administered to Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) mice. The mice were divided into four groups, provided with normal chow (Con), or normal chow supplemented with Na2SeO3 and ZnSO4∙7H2O (SZ), L. plantarum SeZi (Lp), or selenium- and zinc-enriched L. plantarum SeZi (SZ + Lp), respectively. After 4 weeks of oral administration, the concentrations of selenium and zinc in blood were significantly increased in the SZ + Lp group when compared to the control or SZ group (p < 0.05). The increased selenium level led to an enhanced glutathione peroxidase activity and decreased blood malondialdehyde level in the SZ + Lp group (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, the results of bacterial community and microbial metabolic pathway analysis via 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing showed that L. plantarum SeZi significantly promoted the utilization of selenocysteine, seleno-cystathionine and seleno-methionine in the selenocompounds metabolism. Here, the in vivo antioxidant capacities of the selenium- and zinc-enriched lactobacillus strain showed us the utilization of a unique probiotic as a Se/Zn supplement with high availability, low toxicity, and additional probiotic advantages.
Influence of Recycled Precast Concrete Aggregate on Durability of Concrete’s Physical Processes
Authors: Fiol F. , Thomas C. , Manso J. M. , López I.
Published: October 2020

The research presented in this article analysed the influence of incorporating precast concrete waste as an alternative to coarse aggregate in self-compacting concrete to generate new precast elements. The experimental study involved the characterization of recycled aggregate and the design of the mix of the new self-compacting concrete (SCC). The experimental study evaluates the physical processes that affect the durability of concrete with percentages of incorporation such as 20%, 50% and 100% of recycled aggregate. Two types of SCC were manufactured with minimum compressive strength of 30 MPa and 45 MPa. The properties analysed were density of hardened SCC, shrinkage cracking, freeze-thaw resistance, resistance to ageing by thermal shock and abrasion resistance. The results obtained were compared with those of the control concrete, observing great capacity of the SCC under physical aggressions that affect durability. The results of this research show that it is possible to use the recycled aggregate coming from precast pieces in order to the manufacture of self-compacting recycled concrete in the same precast industry. However, high loss of proprieties occurs for a 100% substitution, while for 20% and 50%, the variations with respect to control concrete are smaller. In addition, taking advantage of this waste to incorporate it back into the production chain contributes to more sustainable construction.
Comparative Study on Exponentially Weighted Moving Average Approaches for the Self-Starting Forecasting
Authors: Yu Jaehong , Kim Seoung Bum , Bai Jinli , Han Sung Won
Published: October 2020

Recently, a number of data analysists have suffered from an insufficiency of historical observations in many real situations. To address the insufficiency of historical observations, self-starting forecasting process can be used. A self-starting forecasting process continuously updates the base models as new observations are newly recorded, and it helps to cope with inaccurate prediction caused by the insufficiency of historical observations. This study compared the properties of several exponentially weighted moving average methods as base models for the self-starting forecasting process. Exponentially weighted moving average methods are the most widely used forecasting techniques because of their superior performance as well as computational efficiency. In this study, we compared the performance of a self-starting forecasting process using different existing exponentially weighted moving average methods under various simulation scenarios and real case datasets. Through this study, we can provide the guideline for determining which exponentially weighted moving average method works best for the self-starting forecasting process.
Special Issue on Advanced Methods for Seismic Performance Evaluation of Building Structures
Authors: Han Sang Whan
Published: October 2020

When an earthquake occurs, it causes great damage to a large area. Although seismic engineering continues to develop, it is reported that recently occurred earthquakes inflicted major damage to various structures and loss of human lives. Such earthquake damage occurs in high seismic regions as well as low to moderate seismic regions. This special issue contains topics on newly developed technologies and methods for seismic performance evaluation and seismic design of building structures.
Experimental Analysis on the Thermal Management of Lithium-Ion Batteries Based on Phase Change Materials
Authors: Chen Mingyi , Zhang Siyu , Wang Guoyang , Weng Jingwen , Ouyang Dongxu , Wu Xiangyang , Zhao Luyao , Wang Jian
Published: October 2020

Temperature is an important factor affecting the working efficiency and service life of lithium-ion battery (LIB). This study carried out the experiments on the thermal performances of Sanyo ternary and Sony LiFePO4 batteries under different working conditions including extreme conditions, natural convection cooling and phase change material (PCM) cooling. The results showed that PCM could absorb some heat during the charging and discharging process, effectively reduce the temperature and keep the capacity stable. The average highest temperature of Sanyo LIB under PCM cooling was about 54.4 °C and decreased about 12.3 °C compared with natural convection in the 2 C charging and discharging cycles. It was found that the addition of heat dissipation fins could reduce the surface temperature, but the effect was not obvious. In addition, the charge and discharge cycles of the two kinds of LIBs were compared at the discharge rates of 1 C and 2 C. Compared with natural convection cooling, the highest temperature of Sanyo LIB with PCM cooling decreased about 4.7 °C and 12.8 °C for 1 C and 2 C discharging respectively, and the temperature of Sony LIB highest decreased about 1.1 °C and 2 °C.
Content Adaptation and Depth Perception in an Affordable Multi-View Display
Authors: Ezcurdia Iñigo , Arregui Adriana , Ardaiz Oscar , Ortiz Amalia , Marzo Asier
Published: October 2020

We present SliceView, a simple and inexpensive multi-view display made with multiple parallel translucent sheets that sit on top of a regular monitor; each sheet reflects different 2D images that are perceived cumulatively. A technical study is performed on the reflected and transmitted light for sheets of different thicknesses. A user study compares SliceView with a commercial light-field display (LookingGlass) regarding the perception of information at multiple depths. More importantly, we present automatic adaptations of existing content to SliceView: 2D layered graphics such as retro-games or painting tools, movies and subtitles, and regular 3D scenes with multiple clipping z-planes. We show that it is possible to create an inexpensive multi-view display and automatically adapt content for it; moreover, the depth perception on some tasks is superior to the one obtained in a commercial light-field display. We hope that this work stimulates more research and applications with multi-view displays.
Numerical Analysis of the CIRCE-HERO PLOFA Scenarios
Authors: Marigrazia Moscardini , Francesco Galleni , Andrea Pucciarelli , Daniele Martelli , Nicola Forgione
Published: October 2020

The present work deals with simulations carried out at the University of Pisa by using the System Thermal Hydraulics code RELAP5/Mod3.3 to support the experimental campaign conducted at the ENEA (Energia Nucleare ed Energie Alternative) Brasimone Research Centre on the CIRColazione Eutettico—Heavy liquid mEtal pRessurized water cOoled tubes (CIRCE-HERO) facility. CIRCE is an integral effect pool type facility dedicated to the study of innovative nuclear systems and cooled by heavy liquid metal, while HERO is a heat exchanger heavy liquid metal/ pressurized cooling water system hosted inside the CIRCE facility. Beside the H2020 project Multi-Purpose Hybrid Research Reactor for High-Tech Applications (MYRRHA) Research and Transmutation Endeavour (MYRTE), a series of experiments were performed with the CIRCE-HERO facility, for both nominal steady-state settings and accidental scenarios. In this framework, the RELAP5/Mod3.3 code was used to simulate the experimental tests assessing the heat losses of the facility and analyzing the thermal hydraulics phenomena occurring during the postulated Protected Loss Of Flow Accident (PLOFA). The modified version Mod. 3.3 of the source code RELAP5 was developed by the University of Pisa to include the updated thermo–physical properties and convective heat transfer correlations suitable for heavy liquid metals. After reproducing the facility through an accurate nodalization, boundary conditions were applied according to the experiments. Then, the PLOFA scenarios were reproduced by implementing the information obtained by the experimental campaign. Sensitivity analyses of the main parameters affecting the thermofluidynamics of the Lead-Bismuth Eutectic (LBE) were carried out. In the simulated scenario, the LBE mass flow rate strongly depends on the injected argon flow time trend. The numerical results are in agreement with the experimental data, however further investigations are planned to analyze the complex phenomena involved.
Framework for Incorporating Artificial Somatic Markers in the Decision-Making of Autonomous Agents
Authors: Cabrera Daniel , Cubillos Claudio , Urra Enrique , Mellado Rafael
Published: October 2020

The somatic marker hypothesis proposes that when a person faces a decision scenario, many thoughts arise and different “physical consequences” are fleetingly observable. It is generally accepted that affective dimension influences cognitive capacities. Several proposals for including affectivity within artificial systems have been presented. However, to the best of our knowledge, a proposal that considers the incorporation of artificial somatic markers in a disaggregated and specialized way for the different phases that make up a decision-making process has not been observed yet. Thus, this research work proposes a framework that considers the incorporation of artificial somatic markers in different phases of the decision-making of autonomous agents: recognition of decision point; determination of the courses of action; analysis of decision options; decision selection and performing; memory management. Additionally, a unified decision-making process and a general architecture for autonomous agents are presented. This proposal offers a qualitative perspective following an approach of grounded theory, which is suggested when existing theories or models cannot fully explain or understand a phenomenon or circumstance under study. This research work represents a novel contribution to the body of knowledge in guiding the incorporation of this biological concept in artificial terms within autonomous agents.
Parylene-Based Flexible Microelectrode Arrays for the Electrical Recording of Muscles and the Effect of Electrode Size
Authors: Choi Bong-Jun , Kim Ju-Hwan , Yang Woo-Jin , Han Dong-Jun , Park Jaewon , Park Dong-Wook
Published: October 2020

Miniaturized flexible microelectrode arrays are desirable for small-area surface electromyography (sEMG) to detect the electrical activity generated by muscles in a specific area of the body. Here, we present a flexible 8-channel microelectrode array with electrodes of diameter 150–300 μm for small-area sEMG recordings. The microelectrode arrays based on a flexible Parylene C substrate recorded the sEMG signals from a curved skin surface with a maximum signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of 21.4 dB. The sEMG signals recorded from a small area of 17671–59325 μm2 showed a clear distinction between the signal and noise. Further, the sEMG data were analyzed in the frequency domain by converting the signals via fast Fourier transform (FFT), and it was verified that the proposed microelectrode could reliably record multichannel sEMGs over a small area. Moreover, a maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) experiment was performed to confirm the recording capability of the microelectrode array, which showed consistency with the previous reports. Finally, we demonstrated the effects of the electrode size by comparing the results for two different electrode sizes. When the electrode size was increased 3.37 times, the root-mean-square value of the amplitude (Vrms) increased 2.64 times, consequently increasing the SNR from 16.9 to 21.4 dB. This study demonstrates the expanded utility of Parylene-based flexible microelectrode arrays.
Identification of Bacterial and Fungal Communities in the Roots of Orchids and Surrounding Soil in Heavy Metal Contaminated Area of Mining Heaps
Authors: Böhmer Miroslav , Ozdín Daniel , Račko Matúš , Lichvár Michal , Budiš Jaroslav , Szemes Tomáš
Published: October 2020

Orchids represent a unique group of plants that are well adapted to extreme conditions. In our study, we aimed to determine if different soil contamination and pH significantly change fungal and bacterial composition. We identified bacterial and fungal communities from the roots and the surrounding soil of the family Orchidaceae growing on different mining sites in Slovakia. These communities were detected from the samples of Cephalanthera longifolia and Epipactis pontica from Fe deposit Sirk, E. atrorubens from Ni-Co deposit Dobšiná and Pb-Zn deposit Jasenie and Platanthera bifolia by 16S rRNA gene and ITS next-generation sequencing method. A total of 171 species of fungi and 30 species of bacteria were detected from five samples of orchids. In summary, slight differences in pH of the initial soils do not significantly affect the presence of fungi and bacteria and thus the presence of the studied orchids in these localities. Similarly, the toxic elements in the studied localities, do not affect the occurrence of fungi, bacteria, and orchids. Moreover, Cortinarius saturatus, as a dominant fungus, and Candidatus Udaeobacter as a dominant bacterium were present in all soil samples and some root samples. Finally, many of these fungal and bacterial communities have the potential to be used in the bioremediation of the mining areas.
Sustainability Analysis of the M-30 Madrid Tunnels and Madrid Río after 14 years of Service Life
Authors: Abajo Lucía López-de , Pérez-Fortes Ana Patricia , Alberti Marcos G. , Gálvez Jaime C. , Ripa Tomás
Published: October 2020

In 2007, the excavation of the M-30 ring road located in Madrid and the creation of a green corridor either side of the Manzanares river brought significant change to the metropolitan area. The corridor and linear park which it provided were designed to contribute to the regeneration of the fluvial ecosystem, establish links among residents on each side of the river and promote cultural and leisure activities. This paper provides a sustainability analysis of the excavation of the M-30 (involving the socio-economic and environmental impact) 14 years after its construction. In order to show such an impact, an analysis of the area both prior to the project and after completion, as well as a hypothetical solution that uses improved materials, has been performed. This entails use of the multi-criteria decision-making model named MIVES (initials in Spanish, modelo integrado de valor para una evaluación sostenible). The MIVES method is based on the application of value functions of sustainability indicators selected by socio-economic and environmental criteria, chosen by experts. Results from analysis showed that the excavation of the M-30 considerably improved the sustainability of the area (sustainable index 3.43 and 6.26 both before and after the excavation works). However, use of improved materials in contrast with the application of conventional materials slightly improved the sustainability of the work (Sustainability Index 6.26 and 6.74, respectively, of the conventional materials).
Direct Conversion of Human Fibroblasts into Osteoblasts Triggered by Histone Deacetylase Inhibitor Valproic Acid
Authors: Cha Hyeonjin , Lee Jaeyoung , Park Hee Ho , Park Ju Hyun
Published: October 2020

The generation of functional osteoblasts from human somatic cells could provide an alternative means of regenerative therapy for bone disorders such as osteoporosis. In this study, we demonstrated the direct phenotypic conversion of human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) into osteoblasts by culturing them in osteogenic medium supplemented with valproic acid (VPA), a histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor. HDFs cultured with the VPA in osteogenic medium exhibited expression of alkaline phosphatase and deposition of mineralized calcium matrices, which are phenotypical characteristics of functional osteoblasts. They also expressed osteoblast-specific genes such as alkaline phosphatase, osteopontin, and bone sialoprotein, which demonstrated their direct conversion into osteoblasts. In addition, co-treatment with VPA and a specific inhibitor for activin-like kinase 5 (ALK5i II) had a synergistic effect on direct conversion. It is considered that the inductive effect of VPA on the conversion into osteoblast-lineage is due to the opening of the nucleosome structure by HDAC inhibitor, which facilitates chromatin remodeling and cellular reprogramming. Our findings provide a novel insight into the direct conversion of human somatic cells into transgene-free osteoblasts with small chemical compounds, thus making bone regeneration using cellular reprogramming strategy more clinically feasible.
Illegal Logging Detection Based on Acoustic Surveillance of Forest
Authors: Mporas Iosif , Perikos Isidoros , Kelefouras Vasilios , Paraskevas Michael
Published: October 2020

In this article, we present a framework for automatic detection of logging activity in forests using audio recordings. The framework was evaluated in terms of logging detection classification performance and various widely used classification methods and algorithms were tested. Experimental setups, using different ratios of sound-to-noise values, were followed and the best classification accuracy was reported by the support vector machine algorithm. In addition, a postprocessing scheme on decision level was applied that provided an improvement in the performance of more than 1%, mainly in cases of low ratios of sound-to-noise. Finally, we evaluated a late-stage fusion method, combining the postprocessed recognition results of the three top-performing classifiers, and the experimental results showed a further improvement of approximately 2%, in terms of absolute improvement, with logging sound recognition accuracy reaching 94.42% when the ratio of sound-to-noise was equal to 20 dB.