bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mendorong Kedisiplinan Pegawai Melalui Budaya Organisasi, Kompetensi dan Kepuasan Kerja
Authors: Koto Siti Khadijah , Wulandari Anna
Published: September 2020

Disiplin kerja menjadi permasalahan yang senantiasa terjadi di setiap organisasi termasuk lembaga pendidikan tinggi. Untuk membangunnya diperlukan upaya menelaah faktor penyebabnya. Oleh karena itu, tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui pengaruh budaya organisasi, kompetensi dan kepuasan kerja terhadap disiplin kerja pegawai. Penelitian dilakukan dengan menyebarkan kuesioner kepada 96 pegawai lembaga pendidikan tinggi di bekasi. Data hasil kuesioner dianalisis menggunakan analisis regresi linier ganda. Penelitian menghasilkan temuan bahwa Kompetensi dan kepuasan kerja merupakan faktor yang dapat mendorong kedisiplinan, sementara budaya organisasi bukan salah satu faktor yang dapat mendorong kedisiplinan. Kedisiplinan dapat diciptakan melalui peningkatan kompetensi dan kepuasan kerja.Kata kunci: Disiplin, Kompetensi, Kepuasan, Budaya Organisasi Encouraging Employee Discipline through Organizational Culture, Competence and Job SatisfactionABSTRACTWork discipline is a problem that always occurs in every organization, including higher education institutions. This requires an effort to examine the factors causing the problem. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the influence of organizational culture, competence, and job satisfaction on employee discipline. The study was conducted by submitting questionnaires to 96 employees of higher education institutions in Bekasi. The questionnaire results were analyzed using multiple linear regression analysis. The research resulted in the finding that competence and job satisfaction are factors that can encourage discipline, while organizational culture is not one of the factors that can encourage discipline. Discipline can be created through increased competence and job satisfaction.Keywords: Organizational Culture, Competence, Job satisfaction, Employee Discipline
Announcing Exosomes and Microvesicles, the Official Journal of the American Society for Exosomes and Microvesicles
Authors: Gould Stephen J. , Taylor Douglas , Chiesi Antonio , Kuo Winston P.
Published: September 2020

This editorial article introduces the new scientific journal Exosomes and Microvesicles (EXMV), the official journal of the American Society for Exosomes and Microvesicles (ASEMV), and describes its editorial line and mission in relation to the role of the Society, the state of the art of the study of exosomes and microvesicles, and the overall approach of the publication.
Analysis of safety of performing simultaneous myomectomy in caesarean section
Authors: Medvedeva I. N. , Nozdracheva K. A. , Khizhnyak A. D.
Published: September 2020

The purpose of the study. Safety assessment for expansion of caesarean section to myomectomy. Materials and techniques. A retrospective analysis was conducted of the birth histories of 44 patients with uterine myoma with extension of caesarean section to myomectomy. Results. The average duration of the operation was 54.3 ± 23.7 minutes. Significant inversive complications were not registered. Average blood loss amounted to 661.4 ± 193.2 ml, that does not exceed the generally accepted blood loss limits of standard caesarean section surgery. Post-operative period was without features. The average length of hospitalization was 7.0 ± 1.5 days. Conclusion. Expansion of the operation caesarean section to myomectomy does not significantly affect intraoperative blood loss, post-operative haemoglobin and hematocrit of the blood, provided there were no reductions in these rates before operation. Hospitalization time does not increase significantly. The post-operative period primarily runs without complications.
Clinical case of periostitis in pregnant women complicated by sepsis
Authors: Kakvaeva S. Sh. , Magomedova M. A. , Dzhalilova A. N.
Published: September 2020

One of the most serious problems of modern medicine is sepsis. The number of patients undergoing this complication is 20–30 million (WHO) annually and has no tendency to decrease. Sepsis is characterized by severe multiple organ failure due to a violation of the response of the macroorganism to an infectious agent. Moreover, it is dangerous with high mortality. Sepsis often develops in patients with immunodeficiency conditions, which primarily include pregnant women. The article presents a clinical observation of a case of periostitis in a pregnant woman complicated by a septic state.
GAYA BAHASA DALAM ANTOLOGI CERPEN CINTA DI ATAS PERAHU CADIK KARYA SENO GUMIRA AJI DHARMA
Authors: Ummamah ainun Jariyah Binti
Published: September 2020

This study aimed to describe the stylistic comparisons and contradictions in the short story anthology “Cinta di Atas Perahu Cadik”. To determine the style of the language in the short story anthology “Cinta di Atas Perahu Cadik” which consists of fifteen short stories, researchers studying style by using the theory of Henry Guntur Tarigan. In accordance with the objectives to be achieved in this study, the research approach used is descriptive qualitative approach.

Having done the research study style in the short story "Cinta di Atas Perahu Cadik", obtained some results, namely: (1) There are stylistic comparisons that include; style imagery, stylistic metaphor, personification of style and stylistic antithesis . The language is used to provide a description of the author, and foster a sense of beauty of the story. (2) There is a style conflict which include; style stylistic hyperbole and irony. The style of language used by the author to put pressure on the disputed words.
ANALISIS KOHESI DAN KOHORENSI DALAM WACANA BERITA KEMISKINAN DAN RAMADHAN DALAM KORAN REPUBLIKA
Authors: Permata Raharjo Resdianto , Sudali Ahmad
Published: September 2020

This journal explains the results of cohesion and coherence analysis in the current new news discourse in Indonesia published by Republika, Thursday 16 May 2019. The research uses descriptive methods by describing and explaining the results of the analysis found in the study. This research is a type of qualitative research because the results tend to be released and descriptive. the technique used in this study is to take data, data collection is done in two ways, namely listening and taking notes. This study found the results of the use of cohesion and and the use of coherence. Cohesion is the integration between the parts that are characterized by the use of language elements. Cohesion is divided into two parts, lexical cohesion and grammatical cohesion. Grammatical cohesion includes conjunction, reference, release, substitution. Lexical cohesion includes antonyms, synonyms, repetitions, metonymy, and hypomini. Whereas, cohorence is the relationship between elements one with the other elements so that it has an integrated meaning.
A Hybrid Electromagnetic and Tendon-Driven Actuator for Minimally Invasive Surgery
Authors: Wang HaoChen , Cui SaiHui , Wang Yao , Song ChengLi
Published: September 2020

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) is a surgical technique that facilitates access to the internal tissues and organs of a patient’s body via a limited number of small incisions or natural orifice of the patients. Such a technique requires specialized slender surgical instruments with a high levels of dexterity and functionality. However, the currently available MIS instruments are rigid and could offer only limited degrees of freedom (DOFs) that hampers the surgeon’s effort to perform the required operation accurately. In this study, we have developed a hybrid electromagnetic and tendon-driven actuator as an integral part of MIS surgical instruments to provide them with optimum angulation. The design uses a novel electromagnetic structure to lock the position of individual joints, and a tendon-driven structure for the articulation of the surgical instrument. The finite element method (FEM) was utilized to predict the performance of the actuator, which was experimentally validated. Subsequently, a prototype was assembled, and corresponding kinematics analysis was presented to visualize the improvement of the developed mechanism on the functional workspace of the MIS instruments. It was concluded that the developed mechanism could offer three additional DOFs for the surgical instrument and angulation of 180° for each articulated joint.
Banana Biomass Estimation and Yield Forecasting from Non-Destructive Measurements for Two Contrasting Cultivars and Water Regimes
Authors: Stevens Bert , Diels Jan , Brown Allan , Bayo Stanley , Ndakidemi Patrick A. , Swennen Rony
Published: September 2020

The largest abiotic constraint threatening banana (Musa spp.) production is water stress, impacting biomass buildup and yields; however, so far no studies have investigated the effects of water stress on allometric equations in banana. Weighted least square regression models were built for (i) estimating aboveground vegetative dry biomass (ABGVD) and corm dry biomass (cormD) and (ii) forecasting bunch fresh weight (bunchF), based on non-destructive parameters for two cultivars, Mchare Huti-Green Bell (HG, AA) and Cavendish Grande Naine (GN, AAA), under two irrigation regimes: full irrigation (FI) and rainfed (RF). FI affected growth, yield, and phenological parameters in the field (p < 0.05) depending on the onset of moisture stress. Pseudostem volume (Vpseudo) proved a good predictor for estimating ABGVD (R2adj = 0.88–0.92; RRMSE = 0.14–0.19), but suboptimal for cormD (R2adj = 0.90–0.89, RRMSE = 0.21–0.26 for HG; R2adj = 0.34–0.57, RRMSE = 0.38–0.43 for GN). Differences between RF and FI models (p < 0.05) were small as 95%CI overlapped. Vpseudo at flowering predicted bunchF in FI plots correctly (R2adj = 0.70 for HG, R2adj = 0.43 for GN; RRMSE = 0.12–0.15 for HG and GN). Differences between FI and RF models were pronounced as 95%CI did not overlap (p < 0.05). Bunch allometry was affected by irrigation, proving bunchF forecasting needs to include information on moisture stress during bunch filling or information on bunch parameters. Our allometric relationships can be used for rapid and non-destructive aboveground vegetative biomass (ABGVD) assessment over time and to forecast bunch potentials based on Vpseudo at flowering.
Crambe: Seed Yield and Quality in Response to Nitrogen and Sulfur—A Case Study in Northeastern Poland
Authors: Sokólski Mateusz , Załuski Dariusz , Jankowski Krzysztof
Published: September 2020

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of nitrogen (0, 30, 60, 90, 120 kg ha−1) and sulfur (0, 15, and 30 kg ha−1) fertilization on the morphometric parameters of plants, seed yield components, seed and straw yield, N fertilizer use efficiency (NFUE), and quality of crambe seeds. The experiment had a randomized complete block design, and it was carried out in Bałcyny (northeastern Poland) in 2017–2019. In northeastern Poland, the average seed yields ranged from 0.96 to 1.64–1.82 Mg ha−1 (hulled seeds). Seed yield increased significantly in response to 120 kg N ha−1 and 15 kg S ha−1. The NFUE of crambe decreased by 28% with a rise in N rate. Hulled crambe seeds accumulated 324–394 g kg−1 DM of crude fat, 208–238 g kg−1 DM of total protein, and 118–137 g kg−1 DM of crude fiber. Nitrogen fertilization decreased the crude fat content (by 6%), and it increased the total protein content (by 11%) and the crude fiber content (by 14%) of crambe seeds. Sulfur fertilization increased crude fat content (by 4–5%) without inducing significant differences in the total protein content and the crude fat content of seeds.
Genotyping-by-Sequencing to Unlock Genetic Diversity and Population Structure in White Yam (Dioscorea rotundata Poir.)
Authors: Bhattacharjee Ranjana , Agre Paterne , Bauchet Guillaume , De Koeyer David , Lopez-Montes Antonio , Kumar P. Lava , Abberton Michael , Adebola Patrick , Asfaw Asrat , Asiedu Robert
Published: September 2020

White yam (Dioscorearotundata Poir.) is one of the most important tuber crops in West Africa, where it is indigenous and represents the largest repository of biodiversity through several years of domestication, production, consumption, and trade. In this study, the genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) approach was used to sequence 814 genotypes consisting of genebank landraces, breeding lines, and market varieties to understand the level of genetic diversity and pattern of the population structure among them. The genetic diversity among different genotypes was assessed using three complementary clustering methods, the model-based admixture, discriminant analysis of principal components (DAPC), and phylogenetic tree. ADMIXTURE analysis revealed an optimum number of four groups that matched with the number of clusters obtained through phylogenetic tree. Clustering results obtained from ADMIXTURE analysis were further validated using DAPC-based clustering. Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) revealed high genetic diversity (96%) within each genetic group. A network analysis was further carried out to depict the genetic relationships among the three genetic groups (breeding lines, genebank landraces, and market varieties) used in the study. This study showed that the use of advanced sequencing techniques such as GBS coupled with statistical analysis is a robust method for assessing genetic diversity and population structure in a complex crop such as white yam.
Nitrogen Fixation and Resource Partitioning in Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.), Cicer Milkvetch (Astragalus cicer L.) and Sainfoin (Onobrychis viciifolia Scop.) Using 15N Enrichment under Controlled Environment Conditions
Authors: Issah Gazali , Schoenau Jeff J. , Lardner Herbert A. , Knight J. Diane
Published: September 2020

Availability of nitrogen (N) limits pasture production. Inclusion of legumes into grass pastures can provide an alternative N source through biological N2 fixation (BNF), and enhance retention and cycling of soil C and N. Despite the use of alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.), cicer milkvetch (Astragalus cicer L.) and sainfoin (Onobrychis viciifolia Scop.) in grass-legume pastures to improve forage quality, relative BNF potentials and resource partitioning are unknown. We quantified BNF using 15N isotope dilution and estimated resource partitioning in alfalfa, two cultivars of cicer milkvetch and two cultivars of sainfoin under controlled conditions. Percentage of nitrogen derived from atmosphere followed the order alfalfa (92%) > cicer milkvetch (87%) > sainfoin (81%); corresponding to estimated N contributions of 200, 128 and 65 kg N ha−1 yr−1, respectively, based on total herbage. Root dry matter was 24% to 36% greater than shoot dry matter in all of the legumes, providing substantial below-ground C and N. Cultivars of the same species did not differ in any measured parameter (p > 0.05). Despite the lower BNF in cicer milkvetch and sainfoin compared to alfalfa, their use may not negatively affect stand productivity and C storage.
Soil Nitrogen in Response to Interseeded Cover Crops in Maize–Soybean Production Systems
Authors: Mohammed Yesuf Assen , Patel Swetabh , Matthees Heather L. , Lenssen Andrew W. , Johnson Burton L. , Wells M. Scott , Forcella Frank , Berti Marisol T. , Gesch Russ W.
Published: September 2020

Improved agronomic management strategies are needed to minimize the impact that current maize (Zea mays L.) and soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) production practices have on soil erosion and nutrient losses, especially nitrogen (N). Interseeded cover crops in standing maize and soybean scavenge excess soil N and thus reduce potential N leaching and runoff. The objectives were to determine the impact that pennycress (Thlaspi arvense L.) (PC), winter camelina (Camelina sativa (L.) Crantz) (WC), and winter rye (Secale cereale L.) (WR) cover crops have on soil N, and carbon (C) and N accumulation in cover-crop biomass. The cover crops were interseeded in maize at the R5 growth stage and in soybean at R7 in four replicates over two growing seasons at four locations. Soil and aboveground biomass samples were taken in autumn and spring. Data from the maize and soybean systems were analyzed separately. The results showed that cover crops had no effect on soil NH4+-N under both systems. However, winter rye decreased soil NO3−-N up to 76% compared with no-cover-crop treatment in the soybean system. Pennycress and WC scavenged less soil N than WR. Similarly, N and C accumulation in PC and WC biomass were less than in WR, in part because of their poor growth performance under the interseeding practice. Until PC and WC varieties with improved suitability for interseeding are developed, other agronomic practices may need to be explored for improving N scavenging in maize and soybean cropping systems to reduce nutrient leaching and enhance crop diversification.
Assessment of the Bioavailability and Speciation of Heavy Metal(loid)s and Hydrocarbons for Risk-Based Soil Remediation
Authors: Agrelli Diana , Caporale Antonio Giandonato , Adamo Paola
Published: September 2020

For the assessment of the environmental and sanitary risks deriving from contamination of agricultural soils, it is crucial to identify and characterize the contaminants and study the soil chemical properties influencing their mobility and bioavailability. This information is essential for the selection of the best site remediation and securing strategy. The study site of this work is agricultural land of 6 ha in the province of Naples (Italy) subject to the past illegal burial of industrial wastes, principally from tanneries. With the aim of identifying the contaminants and assessing their mobility and bioavailability, the soil of the site was characterized for the main chemical and physical properties and for the concentration of potentially toxic elements and hydrocarbons. The readily and potentially bioavailable fractions of the main metal contaminants and their distribution in the soil geochemical fractions were determined by extraction in 1 M of NH4NO3, 0.05 M of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) pH 7, and European Community Bureau of Reference (EU-BCR) sequential fractionation. Further, the speciation of heavy hydrocarbons and chromium was carried out. The agricultural soil was widely contaminated by chromium, zinc, and heavy hydrocarbons (up to 4487, 1846, and 1800 mg/kg, respectively). In some sub-areas, contaminations by cadmium, lead, and copper (up to 283, 417, and 1183 mg/kg, respectively) were also observed. The chromium was found to be scarcely mobile and bioavailable and was mainly associated with the oxidizable, residual, and reducible fractions of the soil (on average 56%, 25%, and 19% of the total, respectively). However, chromium speciation revealed the presence of a significant amount of highly toxic Cr(VI) (above the legal threshold of 2 mg/kg), despite the low oxidizing power of the soil. Zinc was more mobile and bioavailable than chromium and was mainly distributed among the acetic acid-extractable and reducible fractions of the soil (on average 28% and 47% of the total, respectively). Cadmium was found to be very mobile and bioavailable, and was mainly distributed in the acetic acid-extractable and reducible fractions of the soil (on average 40% and 45% of the total). The speciation of heavy hydrocarbons showed that they consist almost entirely of long-chain aliphatic hydrocarbons, considered not very toxic and immobile. These results suggest that the use of not-edible plant coverage might be the best securing and remediation action for the study site, with the potential to preserve the soil ecosystem services, contain the risk of soil erosion and particle dispersion, and phytoextract the bioavailable metals.
Opportunities and Challenges in Doubled Haploids and Haploid Inducer-Mediated Genome-Editing Systems in Cucurbits
Authors: Hooghvorst Isidre , Nogués Salvador
Published: September 2020

Doubled haploids have played a major role in cucurbit breeding for the past four decades. In situ parthenogenesis via irradiated pollen is the preferred technique to obtain haploid plantlets whose chromosomes are then doubled in Cucurbitaceae, such as melon, cucumber, pumpkin, squash and winter squash. In contrast to doubled haploid procedures in other species, in situ parthenogenesis in cucurbits presents many limiting factors which impede efficient production of haploids. In addition, it is very time-consuming and labor-intensive. However, the haploid inducer-mediated genome-editing system is a breakthrough technology for producing doubled haploids. Several reports have described using the CRISPR/Cas9 system in cucurbit species, and although its application has many bottlenecks, the targeted knock-out of the CENH3 gene will allow breeders to obtain haploid inducer lines that can be used to obtain parthenogenetic embryos. In this review, we discuss the progress made towards the development of doubled haploids and haploid inducer genotypes using CRISPR/Cas9 technologies in cucurbit species. The present review provides insights for the application of haploid inducer-mediated genome-editing system in cucurbit species
Quality and Storability of Trellised Greenhouse-Grown, Winter-Harvested, New Sweet Acorn Squash Hybrids
Authors: Adeeko Ayobami , Yudelevich Fabiola , Raphael Ginat , Avraham Lior , Alon Hana , Presman Merav Zaaroor , Alkalai-Tuvia Sharon , Paris Harry S. , Fallik Elazar , Ziv Carmit
Published: September 2020

Acorn squash (Cucurbita pepo) is a familiar fruit vegetable in North America, appreciated for its attractive appearance, good flavor, nutritional content and long storage life. A breeding program in Israel has produced three new acorn squash hybrids of enhanced sweetness and flavor. Presently, we evaluated productivity, quality, and storability of these new cultivars in fall plantings. The plants were grown trellised, in an insect-proof greenhouse, for fruit production during the winter to meet consumer demand. The plants were highly productive and bore fruits of superb quality, but there was a high incidence of fungal rots during postharvest cold storage. Pre-treating the fruits with hot water brushing and rinsing before storage was found effective in reducing rot incidence of the fruits stored at 15 °C, but only for one cultivar. Storing the fruits at 10 °C with reduced humidity (Rh 70%) enabled a 3-month shelf life with significantly reduced fruit-rot incidence and minimal effect on fruit quality of all three cultivars. Storage at 20 °C with reduced humidity was suitable for a 1-month period. These protocols for prolonging storage life will help attain controlled, gradual year-round marketing of quality acorn squash at uniform, reasonable price levels for farmers and consumers, and could facilitate overseas export.
Exploration of Chemical Diversity and Antitrypanosomal Activity of Some Red Sea-Derived Actinomycetes Using the OSMAC Approach Supported by LC-MS-Based Metabolomics and Molecular Modelling
Authors: Gamaleldin Noha M. , Bakeer Walid , Sayed Ahmed M. , Shamikh Yara I. , El-Gendy Ahmed O. , Hassan Hossam M. , Horn Hannes , Abdelmohsen Usama Ramadan , Hozzein Wael N.
Published: September 2020

In the present study, we investigated the actinomycetes associated with the Red Sea-derived soft coral Sarcophyton glaucum in terms of biological and chemical diversity. Three strains were cultivated and identified to be members of genera Micromonospora, Streptomyces, and Nocardiopsis; out of them, Micromonospora sp. UR17 was putatively characterized as a new species. In order to explore the chemical diversity of these actinobacteria as far as possible, they were subjected to a series of fermentation experiments under altering conditions, that is, solid and liquid fermentation along with co-fermentation with a mycolic acid-containing strain, namely Nocardia sp. UR23. Each treatment was found to affect these actinomycetes differently in terms of biological activity (i.e., antitrypanosomal activity) and chemical profiles evidenced by LC-HRES-MS-based metabolomics and multivariate analysis. Thereafter, orthogonal projections to latent structures discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) suggested a number of metabolites to be associated with the antitrypanosomal activity of the active extracts. The subsequent in silico screenings (neural networking-based and docking-based) further supported the OPLS-DA results and prioritized desferrioxamine B (3), bafilomycin D (10), and bafilomycin A1 (11) as possible antitrypanosomal agents. Our approach in this study can be applied as a primary step in the exploration of bioactive natural products, particularly those from actinomycetes.
Current Antibiotic Resistance Trends of Uropathogens in Central Europe: Survey from a Tertiary Hospital Urology Department 2011–2019
Authors: Hrbacek Jan , Cermak Pavel , Zachoval Roman
Published: September 2020

Monitoring of pathogen resistance profiles is necessary to guide empirical antibiotic therapy before culture and sensitivity results become available. The aim of this study was to describe current antibiotic resistance patterns of five most frequent causative uropathogens in a Department of Urology of a tertiary referral centre in Central Europe over a period of nine years. The Hospital Department of Clinical Microbiology database was used to extract data on all positive urine samples from inpatients in the Department of Urology between 2011 and 2019. Numbers of susceptible and resistant isolates per year were calculated for five most frequent uropathogens: Escherichia coli, Enterococcus spp., Klebsiella spp., Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Proteus spp. Antimicrobial agents selected for the survey included: ampicillin, amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, piperacillin/tazobactam; cefuroxime, cefotaxime, ceftazidime and cefepime; ciprofloxacin and ofloxacin; gentamicin and amikacin; ertapenem, meropenem and imipenem; trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (co-trimoxazole), nitrofurantoin, colistin, and vancomycin. High resistance rates of Gram-negative uropathogens were demonstrated to most common antimicrobials, with statistically significant increasing or decreasing trends in some cases. No carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae were isolated. Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus spp. strains were rare in our population.
Antimicrobial Resistance, an Update from the Ward: Increased Incidence of New Potential Pathogens and Site of Infection-Specific Antibacterial Resistances
Authors: Stefanini Irene , Boni Martina , Silvaplana Paola , Lovera Paola , Pelassa Stefania , De Renzi Giuseppe , Mognetti Barbara
Published: September 2020

In order to monitor the spread of antimicrobial resistance, the European Union requires hospitals to be equipped with infection control centers. With this aim, we analyzed 1583 bacterial strains isolated from samples of different origin from patients with community-onset and nosocomial infections in a public tertiary University Hospital on the outskirts of Turin, Italy. Statistical analyses of the isolates (source, type) and their antimicrobial resistance (AMR) were performed. The survey revealed infections associated with bacterial species considered as not-commensal and not-pathogenic, hence potentially emerging as new threats for human health. Conversely to the general observation of nosocomial strains being more resistant to antibiotics compared to community-acquired strains, nosocomial strains isolated in this study were more resistant only to 1/42 tested antibiotics (tetracycline). By adopting an ecological approach, we observed that blood infections are associated with the broadest range of species compared to infections affecting other areas and we obtained clear indications on the antibiotics that should be preferred in the treatment of infections at specific body sites. Future investigations carried out on a larger geographical scale will clarify whether these indications are limited to the geographical region investigated over this study, or whether the same trends are visible at national or international level.
Repurposing Disulfiram (Tetraethylthiuram Disulfide) as a Potential Drug Candidate against Borrelia burgdorferi In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Potula Hari-Hara S. K. , Shahryari Jahanbanoo , Inayathullah Mohammed , Malkovskiy Andrey Victorovich , Kim Kwang-Min , Rajadas Jayakumar
Published: September 2020

Lyme disease caused by the Borrelia burgdorferi (Bb or B. burgdorferi) is the most common vector-borne, multi-systemic disease in the USA. Although most Lyme disease patients can be cured with a course of the first line of antibiotic treatment, some patients are intolerant to currently available antibiotics, necessitating the development of more effective therapeutics. We previously found several drugs, including disulfiram, that exhibited effective activity against B. burgdorferi. In the current study, we evaluated the potential of repurposing the FDA-approved drug, disulfiram for its borreliacidal activity. Our results indicate disulfiram has excellent borreliacidal activity against both the log and stationary phase B. burgdorferi sensu stricto B31 MI. Treatment of mice with disulfiram eliminated the B. burgdorferi sensu stricto B31 MI completely from the hearts and urinary bladder by day 28 post infection. Moreover, disulfiram-treated mice showed reduced expressions of inflammatory markers, and thus they were protected from histopathology and cardiac organ damage. Furthermore, disulfiram-treated mice showed significantly lower amounts of total antibody titers (IgM and IgG) at day 21 and total IgG2b at day 28 post infection. FACS analysis of lymph nodes revealed a decrease in the percentage of CD19+ B cells and an increase in total percentage of CD3+ T cells, CD3+ CD4+ T helpers, and naive and effector memory cells in disulfiram-treated mice. Together, our findings suggest that disulfiram has the potential to be repurposed as an effective antibiotic for treating Lyme disease.
Implications of Oxidative Stress and Potential Role of Mitochondrial Dysfunction in COVID-19: Therapeutic Effects of Vitamin D
Authors: de las Heras Natalia , Martín Giménez Virna Margarita , Ferder León , Manucha Walter , Lahera Vicente
Published: September 2020

Due to its high degree of contagiousness and like almost no other virus, SARS-CoV-2 has put the health of the world population on alert. COVID-19 can provoke an acute inflammatory process and uncontrolled oxidative stress, which predisposes one to respiratory syndrome, and in the worst case, death. Recent evidence suggests the mechanistic role of mitochondria and vitamin D in the development of COVID-19. Indeed, mitochondrial dynamics contribute to the maintenance of cellular homeostasis, and its uncoupling involves pathological situations. SARS-CoV-2 infection is associated with altered mitochondrial dynamics with consequent oxidative stress, pro-inflammatory state, cytokine production, and cell death. Furthermore, vitamin D deficiency seems to be associated with increased COVID-19 risk. In contrast, vitamin D can normalize mitochondrial dynamics, which would improve oxidative stress, pro-inflammatory state, and cytokine production. Furthermore, vitamin D reduces renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system activation and, consequently, decreases ROS generation and improves the prognosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Thus, the purpose of this review is to deepen the knowledge about the role of mitochondria and vitamin D directly involved in the regulation of oxidative stress and the inflammatory state in SARS-CoV-2 infection. As future prospects, evidence suggests enhancing the vitamin D levels of the world population, especially of those individuals with additional risk factors that predispose to the lethal consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
How to Improve the Antioxidant Defense in Asphyxiated Newborns—Lessons from Animal Models
Authors: Kletkiewicz Hanna , Klimiuk Maciej , Woźniak Alina , Mila-Kierzenkowska Celestyna , Dokladny Karol , Rogalska Justyna
Published: September 2020

Oxygen free radicals have been implicated in brain damage after neonatal asphyxia. In the early phase of asphyxia/reoxygenation, changes in antioxidant enzyme activity play a pivotal role in switching on and off the cascade of events that can kill the neurons. Hypoxia/ischemia (H/I) forces the brain to activate endogenous mechanisms (e.g., antioxidant enzymes) to compensate for the lost or broken neural circuits. It is important to evaluate therapies to enhance the self-protective capacity of the brain. In animal models, decreased body temperature during neonatal asphyxia has been shown to increase cerebral antioxidant capacity. However, in preterm or severely asphyxiated newborns this therapy, rather than beneficial seems to be harmful. Thus, seeking new therapeutic approaches to prevent anoxia-induced complications is crucial. Pharmacotherapy with deferoxamine (DFO) is commonly recognized as a beneficial regimen for H/I insult. DFO, via iron chelation, reduces oxidative stress. It also assures an optimal antioxidant protection minimizing depletion of the antioxidant enzymes as well as low molecular antioxidants. In the present review, some aspects of recently acquired insight into the therapeutic effects of hypothermia and DFO in promoting neuronal survival after H/I are discussed.
Paraoxonase 1 Phenotype and Protein N-Homocysteinylation in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis: Implications for Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Parada-Turska Jolanta , Wójcicka Grażyna , Beltowski Jerzy
Published: September 2020

Paraoxonase 1 (PON1) is the high density lipoprotein-associated esterase which inhibits the development of atherosclerosis by metabolizing lipid peroxidation products as well as hydrolyzing proatherogenic metabolite of homocysteine (Hcy), Hcy thiolactone, which otherwise reacts with lysine groups of proteins, thus forming N-Hcy-protein in a process referred to as protein N-homocysteinylation. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease associated with increased risk of cardiovascular complications, but the underlying mechanisms are incompletely understood. We examined PON1 status and N-homocysteinylation of serum proteins in patients with RA. Blood was collected from 74 RA patients and 70 control subjects. PON1 activity was measured toward synthetic (paraoxon, phenyl acetate) and natural (Hcy thiolactone) substrates. PON1 protein concentration was measured by ELISA. Total Hcy as well as N-Hcy-protein were measured in serum as well. PON1 activity toward Hcy thiolactone was lower in RA patients than in control subjects which was accompanied by increased concentration of N-Hcy-protein despite normal total Hcy concentration. PON1 protein concentration was unchanged in the RA group, but the specific enzyme activity was reduced. When RA patients were categorized according to the DAS28-ESR score, PON1 concentration and enzymatic activity were lower whereas N-Hcy-protein was higher in those with high disease activity. PON1 activity and Hcy thiolactone were correlated with DAS28-ESR score and myeloperoxidase concentration. In conclusion, RA is associated with deficiency of PON1 activity and increased protein N-homocyseinylation which may contribute to accelerated development of cardiovascular diseases.
Comparison and Ranking of Metaheuristic Techniques for Optimization of PI Controllers in a Machine Drive System
Authors: Aguilar-Mejía Omar , Minor-Popocatl Hertwin , Tapia-Olvera Ruben
Published: September 2020

Proportional integral (PI) control is still the most widely deployed controller in the industrial drives due to its simplicity and the fact that it is easy to understand and implement. Nevertheless, they are successes applied to systems with a complex behavior with a nonlinear representation, but a disadvantage is the procedure to find the optimal PI controller gains. The optimal values of PI parameters must be computed during the tuning process. However, traditional tuning techniques are based on model and do not provide optimal adjustment parameters for the PI controllers because the transient response could produce oscillations and a large overshoot. In this paper, six swarm intelligence-based algorithms (whale, moth-flame, flower pollination, dragonfly, cuckoo search, and modified flower pollination), are correctly conditioned and delimited to tune the PI controllers, the results are probed in a typical industry actuator. Also, a rigorous study is developed to evaluate the quality and reliability of these algorithms by a statistical analysis based on non-parametric test and post-hoc test. Finally, with the obtained results, some time simulations are carried out to corroborate that the nonlinear system performance is improved for high precision industrial applications subjected to endogenous and exogenous uncertainties in a wide range of operating conditions.
Natural Versus Anthropic Influence on North Adriatic Coast Detected by Geochemical Analyses
Authors: Barra Eliana , Riminucci Francesco , Dinelli Enrico , Albertazzi Sonia , Giordano Patrizia , Ravaioli Mariangela , Capotondi Lucilla
Published: September 2020

This study focused on the geochemical and sedimentological characterization of recent sediments from two marine sites (S1 and E1) located in the North Adriatic Sea, between the Po River prodelta and the Rimini coast. Major and trace metal concentrations reflect the drainage area of the Po River and its tributaries, considered one of the most polluted areas in Europe. Sediment geochemistry of the two investigated sites denote distinct catchment areas. High values of Cr, Ni, Pb and Zn detected in sediments collected in the Po River prodelta (S1 site) suggest the Po River supply, while lower levels of these elements characterize sediments collected in front of the Rimini coast (E1 site), an indication of Northern Apennines provenance. Historical trends of Pb and Zn reconstructed from the sedimentary record around the E1 site document several changes that can be correlated with the industrialization subsequent to World War II, the implementation of the environmental policy in 1976 and the effects of the Comacchio dumping at the end of 1980. At the S1 site, the down core distributions of trace elements indicate a reduction of contaminants due to the introduction of the Italian Law 319/76 and the implementation of anti-pollution policies on automotive Pb (unleaded fuels) in the second half of the 1980s.
A Comprehensive Approach in Medical Nutrition Therapy for Adults’ Weight Loss Management in Lebanon
Authors: Khalil Marie-Therese , Matta Joseph , Videmšek Mateja , Karpljuk Damir , Meško Maja
Published: September 2020

The objective of the research is to identify the different factors of Lebanese culture that interfere with weight loss therapy and assist the field of nutrition in homogenising in a standardised manner the protocol of Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT). The first part of the study is based on a literature review, and, in the second part, quantitative analysis was used. The research was conducted on 514 Lebanese adults via questionnaire. The analysis was performed with the AMOS (Version 22, IBM®, Amonk, NY, USA) statistical tool. For the analysis of correlations, chi-square and non-parametric tests were used. Variables affecting weight loss management were identified with the aid of seven hypotheses using structural equation modelling (SEM). Body shape and Body Mass Index (BMI) were found to be inter-related to cognitive behaviours toward food, lifestyle practices, medical conditions, food and beverages. In parallel, and based on the research results, younger adults, in particular women, have better BMI and look better in terms of body shape. Ageing has a direct impact on weight gain. Older people have a lower activity level, which is more prevalent among women, and they also prefer to eat typical Lebanese food. Habits, such as smoking, drinking alcohol, are directly related to obesity and some medical conditions. Low physical activity influences the problems related to body shape. For further studies, one should also include types of physical activities in terms of intensity and number of hours. This would assist the study in being more specified and credible toward the effect of exercise on weight loss management.
Frequent Microalgae in the Fountains of the Alhambra and Generalife: Identification and Creation of a Culture Collection
Authors: Bolívar-Galiano Fernando , Abad-Ruiz Clara , Sánchez-Castillo Pedro , Toscano Maurizio , Romero-Noguera Julio
Published: September 2020

Cyanobacteria, green algae and diatoms are significant factors in the biodeterioration of stone cultural heritage sites, and specifically fountain monuments, due to the constant presence of water. In this study, samples were taken from different fountains in the Alhambra and Generalife, which are among the Spanish monuments of greatest historical and artistic value and which together were declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1984. The aim was to identify which species of colonising microalgae are most frequent and to obtain monoalgal cultures from them. From a conservation point of view, it is interesting to identify which algae are growing in these fountains and how they behave in order to develop new methods to control their growth. The most abundant groups of algae in our samples were green algae and cyanobacteria. The most common genera in the former group were Bracteacoccus, Chlorosarcina, Chlorosarcinopsis, Apatococcus and Klebsormidium. As for cyanobacteria, the most abundant genera were Phormidium, Calothrix, Leptolyngbya, Chamaesiphon, Pleurocapsa and Chlorogloea. Using our collected samples, 10 genera of green algae and 13 genera of cyanobacteria were isolated, thereby constituting the base samples for the creation of a reference collection of living algae from the Alhambra and Generalife contexts, which can be used in subsequent studies to develop new types of treatment against biodeterioration.
Assessing Significant Factors Affecting Risky Riding Behaviors of Motorcyclists
Authors: Goh Wins Cott , Leong Lee Vien , Cheah Richard Jun Xian
Published: September 2020

This study was conducted in Malaysia, where motorcycle traffic accidents represent a high percentage of fatality among overall traffic accidents. Studies have shown that risk perception and positive outcome of risky riding behavior have a significant impact on a rider’s decision making. Therefore, this study is targeted at further understanding of Malaysian motorcyclists within the locality of their home country. A questionnaire survey was conducted to gather motorcycle rider’s information, together with their perception of the three factors mentioned above. A reliability test of the findings was analyzed using Cronbach’s Alpha, while a PCA analysis was conducted to determine the linear combinations that have maximum variance. Subsequently, a statistical model was constructed based on the latent variables’ relations, the relation between the latent variables and observed variables, and also the hypothesis model. The model confirms that the positive affect of the risky behavior has a significant positive relationship with motorcyclists’ risk behavior (estimate coefficient = 1.016). Findings in the model also show that older motorcyclists are less likely to take part in risky riding behavior while riding on the road, with an estimate coefficient of −0.037 and a negative relationship with positive affect (estimate coefficient = −0.032).
Quantitative Demonstration of Wear Rate and Dissipation Energy during Tension–Torsion Cyclic Loading of Steel Wires with Fretting Contact in Different Environmental Media
Authors: Wang Dagang , Wang Xiangru , Xie Guozheng , Zhu Huilong
Published: September 2020

The wear rate and dissipation energy during tension–torsion cyclic loading of steel wires with fretting contact in different environmental media were explored in this study. Hysteresis loops of tangential force versus displacement amplitude (Ft-D) and torque versus torsion angle (T-θ), and their dissipation energies were obtained employing the self-made test rig. Morphologies of wear scars of steel wires were observed employing the white light interference surface morphology. The quantitative demonstration of the coefficient of cyclic wear of steel wire was carried out combining polynomial fitting, reconstruction of three-dimensional geometric model of wear scar and Archard’s equation. The results show that Ft-D curves reveal both decreases of the relative slip and dissipation energy in the order: corrosive media, deionized water and air. Increases of contact load and crossing angle caused overall decreases in the relative slip and dissipation energy, while the relative slip and dissipation energy both increased with increasing torsion angle. T-θ curves indicated the largest and smallest dissipation energies in cases of acid solution and deionized water, respectively. Increases of contact load, crossing angle and torsion angle caused increases in relative slip and dissipation energy due to cyclic torsional loading with fretting contact. The wear coefficient in cases of distinct environmental media decreased in this order: air, corrosive media and deionized water. Increases of the contact load, torsion angle and crossing angle all induced increases in the wear coefficient.
A New Challenge: Path Planning for Autonomous Truck of Open-Pit Mines in The Last Transport Section
Authors: Zhao Ziyu , Bi Lin
Published: September 2020

During the operation of open-pit mining, the loading position of a haulage truck often changes, bringing a new challenge concerning how to plan an optimal truck transportation path considering the terrain factors. This paper proposes a path planning method based on a high-precision digital map. It contains two parts: (1) constructing a high-precision digital map of the cutting zone and (2) planning the optimal path based on the modified Hybrid A* algorithm. Firstly, we process the high-precision map based on different terrain feature factors to generate the obstacle cost map and surface roughness cost map of the cutting zone. Then, we fuse the two cost maps to generate the final cost map for path planning. Finally, we incorporate the contact cost between tire and ground to improve the node extension and path smoothing part of the Hybrid A* algorithm and further enhance the algorithm’s capability of avoiding the roughness. We use real elevation data with different terrain resolutions to perform random tests and the results show that, compared with the path without considering the terrain factors, the total transportation cost of the optimal path is reduced by 10%–20%. Moreover, the methods demonstrate robustness.
Extraction of Irregularly Shaped Coal Mining Area Induced Ground Subsidence Prediction Based on Probability Integral Method
Authors: Tan Xianfeng , Song Bingzhong , Bo Huaizhi , Li Yunwei , Wang Meng , Lu Guohong
Published: September 2020

Underground coal mining-induced ground subsidence (or major ground vertical settlement) is a major concern to the mining industry, government and people affected. Based on the probability integral method, this paper presents a new ground subsidence prediction method for predicting irregularly shaped coal mining area extraction-induced ground subsidence. Firstly, the Delaunay triangulation method is used to divide the irregularly shaped mining area into a series of triangular extraction elements. Then, the extraction elements within the calculation area are selected. Finally, the Monte Carlo method is used to calculate extraction element-induced ground subsidence. The proposed method was tested by two experimental data sets: the simulation data set and direct leveling-based subsidence observations. The simulation results show that the prediction error of the proposed method is proportional to mesh size and inversely proportional to the amount of generated random points within the auxiliary domain. In addition, when the mesh size is smaller than 0.5 times the minimum deviation of the inflection point of the mining area, and the amount of random points within an auxiliary domain is greater than 800 times the area of the extraction element, the difference between the proposed method-based subsidence predictions and the traditional probability integral method-based subsidence predictions is marginal. The measurement results show that the root-mean-square error of the proposed method-based subsidence predictions is smaller than 3 cm, the average of absolute deviations of the proposed method-based subsidence predictions is 2.49 cm, and the maximum absolute deviation is 4.05 cm, which is equal to 0.75% of the maximum direct leveling-based subsidence observation.