bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oxidative Stress and Thrombosis during Aging: The Roles of Oxidative Stress in RBCs in Venous Thrombosis
Authors: Wang Qinhong , Zennadi Rahima
Published: June 2020

Mid-life stage adults are at higher risk of developing venous thrombosis (VT)/thromboembolism (VT/E). Aging is characterized by an overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which could evoke a series of physiological changes involved in thrombosis. Here, we focus on the critical role of ROS within the red blood cell (RBC) in initiating venous thrombosis during aging. Growing evidence has shifted our interest in the role of unjustifiably unvalued RBCs in blood coagulation. RBCs can be a major source of oxidative stress during aging, since RBC redox homeostasis is generally compromised due to the discrepancy between prooxidants and antioxidants. As a result, ROS accumulate within the RBC due to the constant endogenous hemoglobin (Hb) autoxidation and NADPH oxidase activation, and the uptake of extracellular ROS released by other cells in the circulation. The elevated RBC ROS level affects the RBC membrane structure and function, causing loss of membrane integrity, and decreased deformability. These changes impair RBC function in hemostasis and thrombosis, favoring a hypercoagulable state through enhanced RBC aggregation, RBC binding to endothelial cells affecting nitric oxide availability, RBC-induced platelet activation consequently modulating their activity, RBC interaction with and activation of coagulation factors, increased RBC phosphatidylserine exposure and release of microvesicles, accelerated aging and hemolysis. Thus, RBC oxidative stress during aging typifies an ultimate mechanism in system failure, which can affect major processes involved in the development of venous thrombosis in a variety of ways. The reevaluated concept of the critical role of RBC ROS in the activation of thrombotic events during aging will help identify potential targets for novel strategies to prevent/reduce the risk for VT/E or VT/E recurrences in mid-life stage adults.
Effectiveness in the Block by Honokiol, a Dimerized Allylphenol from Magnolia Officinalis, of Hyperpolarization-Activated Cation Current and Delayed-Rectifier K+ Current
Authors: Chan Ming-Huan , Chen Hwei-Hsien , Lo Yi-Ching , Wu Sheng-Nan
Published: June 2020

Background: Honokiol (HNK), a dimer of allylphenol obtained from the bark of Magnolia officinalis was demonstrated to exert an array of biological actions in different excitable cell types. However, whether or how this compound can lead to any perturbations on surface–membrane ionic currents remains largely unknown. Methods: We used the patch clamp method and found that addition of HNK effectively depressed the density of macroscopic hyperpolarization-activated cation currents (Ih) in pituitary GH3 cells in a concentration-, time- and voltage-dependent manner. By the use of a two-step voltage protocol, the presence of HNK (10 μM) shifted the steady-state activation curve of Ih density along the voltage axis to a more negative potential by approximately 11 mV, together with no noteworthy modification in the gating charge of the current. Results: The voltage-dependent hysteresis of Ih density elicited by long-lasting triangular ramp pulse was attenuated by the presence of HNK. The HNK addition also diminished the magnitude of deactivating Ih density elicited by ramp-up depolarization with varying durations. The effective half-maximal concentration (IC50) value needed to inhibit the density of Ih or delayed rectifier K+ current identified in GH3 cells was estimated to be 2.1 or 6.8 μM, respectively. In cell-attached current recordings, HNK decreased the frequency of spontaneous action currents. In Rolf B1.T olfactory sensory neurons, HNK was also observed to decrease Ih density in a concentration-dependent manner. Conclusions: The present study highlights the evidence revealing that HNK has the propensity to perturb these ionic currents and that the hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated (HCN) channel is proposed to be a potential target for the in vivo actions of HNK and its structurally similar compounds.
Signal Timing Optimization Model Based on Bus Priority
Authors: Sun Xu , Lin Kun , Jiao Pengpeng , Lu Huapu
Published: June 2020

This paper focuses on the optimization problem of a signal timing design based on the concept of bus priority. This optimization problem is formulated in the form of a bi-level programming model that minimizes average passenger delay at intersections and vehicle delay in lanes simultaneously. A solution framework that implements the differential evolution (DE) algorithm is developed to efficiently solve the model. A case study based on a real-world intersection in Beijing, China, is implemented to test the efficiency and applicability of the proposed modeling and computing methods. The experiment’s result shows that the optimization model can not only significantly improve the priority capacity of the buses at the intersection but also reduce the adverse impact of bus-priority approaches on the private vehicles for the intersections.
Comparative Assessment of Environmental Impacts from Open-Cut Pipeline Replacement and Trenchless Cured-in-Place Pipe Renewal Method for Sanitary Sewers
Authors: Kaushal Vinayak , Najafi Mohammad
Published: June 2020

An environmental impact assessment (EIA) involves the evaluation of information about pipe raw materials, processes, and product manufacturing to obtain the associated emissions and ecological impacts. Open-cut (OC) pipeline replacement involves digging a trench along the length of the proposed pipeline, placing the pipe in the trench on suitable bedding materials, and then embedding and backfilling. The trenchless cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) method involves a liquid thermoset resin saturated material that is inserted into the existing pipeline by hydrostatic or air inversion or by mechanically pulling-in and inflating. The liner material is cured-in-place using hot water or steam or light cured using ultraviolet light, resulting in the CIPP product. The objectives of this paper are: (1) to present a literature review on the progress acquired over the years in understanding the environmental impacts from the OC and CIPP methods, (2) to analyze and compare the environmental impacts for small diameter sanitary sewers (SDSS) using USEPA’s tool for the reduction and assessment of chemical and other environmental impacts (TRACI) methodology from the SimaPro software, and (3) to identify the factors that influence the environment for the OC and CIPP methods. Published papers were identified that reported the environmental impacts from the OC and CIPP methods over a period from 1989 through to 2020. An actual case study based on the City of Pasadena, California, river basin was used to carry out an environmental analysis for small diameter OC and CIPP methods. The literature review suggests that the material production phase consumes a large amount of energy and is a major contributor of environmental impacts. Higher environmental impacts from the OC method are a result of longer project durations and more equipment requirements compared to the CIPP. The assessment results show that, on average, CIPP renewal caused 68% less environmental impact, 75% less impact on human health, and 62% less resource depletion as compared to the OC replacement for SDSS. The liner, felt, and resin influenced the environment the most for CIPP as compared to the OC method, where the power consumption of construction equipment and the pipe material had the greatest environmental impacts. It can be concluded that the comparison of the environmental impacts from pipeline renewal and replacement is an important element when considering a sustainable underground infrastructure development. The pipe material and outside diameter should be considered during the installation phase by OC and CIPP methods to allow a detailed evaluation and comparison of their sustainability impacts. This study can be further developed for analyzing the environmental impacts and associated costs of the OC and CIPP methods for sanitary sewers with different project and site conditions.
Pan Traps for Tracking Honey Bee Activity-Density: A Case Study in Soybeans
Authors: St. Clair Ashley L. , Dolezal Adam G. , O’Neal Matthew E. , Toth Amy L.
Published: June 2020

To study how honey bees utilize forage resources and guide pollination management plans in crops, a multitude of methods have been developed, but most are time consuming, costly, and require specialized skills. Colored pan traps for monitoring activity-density are a simple, efficient, and cost-effective alternative; however, their usefulness for studying honey bees is not well described. We examined if trap color, location within a field, and the presence of managed colonies affected estimates of honey bee activity-density within soybean fields. Soybeans are visited by pollinators but do not require these visits for seed development. Pan traps, especially those colored blue, captured more honey bees when colonies were present. There were no differences in activity-density based on placement of traps within a field nor with increasing distance from colonies. Throughout the season, activity-density in soybeans was constant but tripled after soybean ceased blooming, suggesting spikes in pan trap captures may indicate periods of forage scarcity. Activity-density did not correlate with the population size of worker bees at a site, but did correlate with number of colonies present. We conclude that pan traps can be useful for assessing honey bee activity, particularly for estimating colony presence and identifying times of forage scarcity.
Modified Atmosphere Does Not Reduce the Efficacy of Phytosanitary Irradiation Doses Recommended for Tephritid Fruit Flies
Authors: Dias Vanessa S. , Hallman Guy J. , Martínez-Barrera Olga Y. , Hurtado Nick V. , Cardoso Amanda A. S. , Parker Andrew G. , Caravantes Luis A. , Rivera Camilo , Araújo Alexandre S. , Maxwell Florence , Cáceres-Barrios Carlos E. , Vreysen Marc J. B. , Myers Scott W.
Published: June 2020

Phytosanitary irradiation (PI) has been successfully used to disinfest fresh commodities and facilitate international agricultural trade. Critical aspects that may reduce PI efficacy must be considered to ensure the consistency and effectiveness of approved treatment schedules. One factor that can potentially reduce PI efficacy is irradiation under low oxygen conditions. This factor is particularly important because storage and packaging of horticultural commodities under low oxygen levels constitute practices widely used to preserve their quality and extend their shelf life. Hence, international organizations and regulatory agencies have considered the uncertainties regarding the efficacy of PI doses for insects infesting fresh commodities stored under low oxygen levels as a rationale for restricting PI application under modified atmosphere. Our research examines the extent to which low oxygen treatments can reduce the efficacy of phytosanitary irradiation for tephritids naturally infesting fruits. The effects of normoxia (21% O2), hypoxia (~5% O2), and severe hypoxia (< 0.5% O2) on radiation sensitivity of third instars of Anastrepha fraterculus (sensu lato), A. ludens (Loew), Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel), and Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann) were evaluated and compared at several gamma radiation doses. Our findings suggest that, compared to normoxia, hypoxic and severe-hypoxic conditioning before and during irradiation can increase adult emergence and contribute to advancement of larval development of tephritid fruit flies only at low radiation doses that are not used as phytosanitary treatments. With phytosanitary irradiation doses approved internationally for several tephritids, low oxygen treatments applied before and during irradiation did not increase the emergence rates of any fruit fly species evaluated, and all treated insects died as coarctate larvae. Thus, the findings of our research support a re-evaluation of restrictions related to phytosanitary irradiation application under modified atmospheres targeting tephritid fruit flies.
A Growers’ Perspective on Crop Pollination and Measures to Manage the Pollination Service of Wild Pollinators in Sweet Cherry Cultivation
Authors: Eeraerts Maxime , Borremans Lieve , Smagghe Guy , Meeus Ivan
Published: June 2020

Recent declines in insect pollinators and the increasing dependence on insect pollination in agriculture present major challenges to ensuring future food production. As part of the effort to deal with this challenge, there is a pressing need to understand growers’ perceptions with regard to pollinator diversity and crop pollination management. At present, many growers are dependent on domesticated honey bees (Apis mellifera), however, targeted management strategies involving naturally occurring pollinator species might be necessary to ensure future crop pollination. In this study we used semi-structured interviews to explore growers’ knowledge about crop pollination and current practices to manage insect pollination in sweet cherry cultivation. Our findings suggest that growers have a clear understanding of the importance of pollination and its determining factors. However, with respect to their current pollination management, growers depend mainly on honey bees and only apply measures to enhance wild pollinator communities to a limited extent. Our study highlights the gap between the growers’ perception of the contribution of wild pollinators to crop pollination, and their efforts to manage these species. We conclude that this is due to a lack of communication of recent scientific findings on the contribution of pollinating insects to crop pollination through the information channels that are being used by growers today. It is therefore crucial that scientists, government and other stakeholders work together with growers and communicate scientific evidence as well as practical guidelines to growers.
Susceptibility of Red Mason Bee Larvae to Bacterial Threats Due to Microbiome Exchange with Imported Pollen Provisions
Authors: Voulgari-Kokota Anna , Steffan-Dewenter Ingolf , Keller Alexander
Published: June 2020

Solitary bees are subject to a variety of pressures that cause severe population declines. Currently, habitat loss, temperature shifts, agrochemical exposure, and new parasites are identified as major threats. However, knowledge about detrimental bacteria is scarce, although they may disturb natural microbiomes, disturb nest environments, or harm the larvae directly. To address this gap, we investigated 12 Osmia bicornis nests with deceased larvae and 31 nests with healthy larvae from the same localities in a 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene metabarcoding study. We sampled larvae, pollen provisions, and nest material and then contrasted bacterial community composition and diversity in healthy and deceased nests. Microbiomes of pollen provisions and larvae showed similarities for healthy larvae, whilst this was not the case for deceased individuals. We identified three bacterial taxa assigned to Paenibacillus sp. (closely related to P. pabuli/amylolyticus/xylanexedens), Sporosarcina sp., and Bacillus sp. as indicative for bacterial communities of deceased larvae, as well as Lactobacillus for corresponding pollen provisions. Furthermore, we performed a provisioning experiment, where we fed larvae with untreated and sterilized pollens, as well as sterilized pollens inoculated with a Bacillus sp. isolate from a deceased larva. Untreated larval microbiomes were consistent with that of the pollen provided. Sterilized pollen alone did not lead to acute mortality, while no microbiome was recoverable from the larvae. In the inoculation treatment, we observed that larval microbiomes were dominated by the seeded bacterium, which resulted in enhanced mortality. These results support that larval microbiomes are strongly determined by the pollen provisions. Further, they underline the need for further investigation of the impact of detrimental bacterial acquired via pollens and potential buffering by a diverse pollen provision microbiome in solitary bees.
Validating the Paradigm That Biomechanical Forces Regulate Embryonic Cardiovascular Morphogenesis and Are Fundamental in the Etiology of Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Keller Bradley B. , Kowalski William J. , Tinney Joseph P. , Tobita Kimimasa , Hu Norman
Published: June 2020

The goal of this review is to provide a broad overview of the biomechanical maturation and regulation of vertebrate cardiovascular (CV) morphogenesis and the evidence for mechanistic relationships between function and form relevant to the origins of congenital heart disease (CHD). The embryonic heart has been investigated for over a century, initially focusing on the chick embryo due to the opportunity to isolate and investigate myocardial electromechanical maturation, the ability to directly instrument and measure normal cardiac function, intervene to alter ventricular loading conditions, and then investigate changes in functional and structural maturation to deduce mechanism. The paradigm of “Develop and validate quantitative techniques, describe normal, perturb the system, describe abnormal, then deduce mechanisms” was taught to many young investigators by Dr. Edward B. Clark and then validated by a rapidly expanding number of teams dedicated to investigate CV morphogenesis, structure–function relationships, and pathogenic mechanisms of CHD. Pioneering studies using the chick embryo model rapidly expanded into a broad range of model systems, particularly the mouse and zebrafish, to investigate the interdependent genetic and biomechanical regulation of CV morphogenesis. Several central morphogenic themes have emerged. First, CV morphogenesis is inherently dependent upon the biomechanical forces that influence cell and tissue growth and remodeling. Second, embryonic CV systems dynamically adapt to changes in biomechanical loading conditions similar to mature systems. Third, biomechanical loading conditions dynamically impact and are regulated by genetic morphogenic systems. Fourth, advanced imaging techniques coupled with computational modeling provide novel insights to validate regulatory mechanisms. Finally, insights regarding the genetic and biomechanical regulation of CV morphogenesis and adaptation are relevant to current regenerative strategies for patients with CHD.
CaSiO3-HAp Structural Bioceramic by Sol-Gel and SPS-RS Techniques: Bacteria Test Assessment
Authors: Papynov Evgeniy , Shichalin Oleg , Buravlev Igor , Belov Anton , Portnyagin Arseniy , Mayorov Vitaliy , Merkulov Evgeniy , Kaidalova Taisiya , Skurikhina Yulia , Turkutyukov Vyacheslav , Fedorets Alexander , Apanasevich Vladimir
Published: June 2020

The article presents an original way of getting porous and mechanically strong CaSiO3-HAp ceramics, which is highly desirable for bone-ceramic implants in bone restoration surgery. The method combines wet and solid-phase approaches of inorganic synthesis: sol-gel (template) technology to produce the amorphous xonotlite (Ca6Si6O17·2OH) as the raw material, followed by its spark plasma sintering–reactive synthesis (SPS-RS) into ceramics. Formation of both crystalline wollastonite (CaSiO3) and hydroxyapatite (Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2) occurs “in situ” under SPS conditions, which is the main novelty of the method, due to combining the solid-phase transitions of the amorphous xonotlite with the chemical reaction within the powder mixture between CaO and CaHPO4. Formation of pristine HAp and its composite derivative with wollastonite was studied by means of TGA and XRD with the temperatures of the “in situ” interactions also determined. A facile route to tailor a macroporous structure is suggested, with polymer (siloxane-acrylate latex) and carbon (fibers and powder) fillers being used as the pore-forming templates. Microbial tests were carried out to reveal the morphological features of the bacterial film Pseudomonas aeruginosa that formed on the surface of the ceramics, depending on the content of HAp (0, 20, and 50 wt%).
Design Improvement of a Viscous-Spring Damper for Controlling Torsional Vibration in a Propulsion Shafting System with an Engine Acceleration Problem
Authors: Jee Jaehoon , Kim Chongmin , Kim Yanggon
Published: June 2020

In order to cope with strengthened marine environmental regulations and to reduce fuel consumption, recently constructed vessels are equipped with an ultra-long stroke engine and apply engine de-rating technology. This was intended to improve propulsion efficiency by adopting a larger diameter propeller turning at a lower speed but also results in a significant increase in the torsional exciting force. Therefore, it is very difficult to control the torsional vibration of its shaft system by adopting a damper, for ships equipped with fuel-efficient ultra-long-stroke engines, even though previously, torsional vibration could be controlled adequately by applying tuning and turning wheels on the engine. In this paper, the vibration characteristics of an ultra-long-stroke engine using the de-rating technology are reviewed and dynamic characteristics of a viscous-spring damper used to control the torsional vibration of its shaft system are also examined. In case of ships have recently experienced an engine acceleration problem in the critical zone, it is proposed that the proper measures for controlling torsional vibration in the propulsion shafting system should include adjusting the design parameters of its damper instead of using the optimum damper designed from theory in order to prevent fatigue fracture of shafts.
Impact of SLR on Beach-Tourism Resort Revenue at Sahl Hasheesh and Makadi Bay, Red Sea, Egypt; A Hedonic Pricing Approach
Authors: Sharaan Mahmoud , Somphong Chatuphorn , Udo Keiko
Published: June 2020

Coastal erosion and inundation represent the main impacts of climate change and the consequential sea level rise (SLR) on beaches. The resultant deterioration of coastal habitats and decline in beach tourism revenue has been a primary concern for coastal managers and researchers. Nevertheless, the extent of SLR on beach tourism in Egypt remains relatively unknown. Therefore, this study investigates the relationship between beach width shrinkage due to SLR and the loss in tourist resort revenue. We use the hedonic pricing approach, which combines economic and environmental variables, to determine the environmental impact on beach tourism along 14 km of the coast of Sahl Hasheesh and Makadi Bay, Hurghada, Egypt. The resort revenue depends on the cumulative benefits from the market price of the resort rooms, which is a function of morphological variables and tourism variables. Three regression models (semi-log, double-log, and custom-log) were used to select the most appropriate functional hedonic model. Three coastal slopes were considered (0.03, 0.06, and 0.12) to address the uncertainty in beach width. When 0.06 coastal slope is used, the expected losses in revenue are 84,000, 220,000, and 546,000 USD/day period (representing 3%, 7%, and 18%) for 2030, 2050, and 2100, respectively, considering the lowest scenario representative concentration pathway (RCP2.6); for the worst case (RCP8.5 SLR), the expected losses are 142,000, 369,000, and 897,000 USD/day period (representing 5%, 12%, and 30%) for 2030, 2050, and 2100, respectively.
Delayed Fuzzy Output Feedback H∞ Control for Offshore Structures
Authors: Feng Hua-Nv , Zhang Bao-Lin , Li Qing , Tang Gong-You
Published: June 2020

Vibration damping of jacket platforms is among the significant issues in marine science and engineering, and the design of active vibration control schemes is very important to ensure the stability and safety of the jacket platforms against external loadings. This paper provides three fuzzy output feedback H ∞ controllers of the jacket platforms for irregular wave forces. By considering time-varying masses of jacket platforms, a Takagi-Sugeno (T-S) fuzzy dynamic model of the structure is established. Then fuzzy output feedback H ∞ control schemes are developed via using output signals of the platform with current and/or are delayed. Several existence conditions of fuzzy output feedback H ∞ controllers are derived. Simulation results demonstrate that the fuzzy output feedback H ∞ control strategies are remarkable to suppress the vibration of structure. Moreover, by choosing proper delayed output information of the system, the presented delayed fuzzy output feedback H ∞ control schemes outperform the conventional fuzzy output feedback H ∞ control approach.
The FuGas 2.5 Updated for the Effects of Surface Turbulence on the Transfer Velocity of Gases at the Atmosphere–Ocean Interface
Authors: Vieira Vasco M. N. C. S. , Mateus Marcos , Canelas Ricardo , Leitão Francisco
Published: June 2020

Accurately estimating air–water gas exchanges requires considering other factors besides wind speed. These are particularly useful for coastal ocean applications, where the sea-state varies at fine spatial and temporal resolutions. We upgrade FuGas 2.5 with improved formulations of the gas transfer velocity parametrized based on friction velocity, kinetic energy dissipation, roughness length, air-flow conditions, drift current and wave field. We then test the algorithm with field survey data collected in the Baltic Sea during spring–summer of 2014 and 2015. Collapsing turbulence was observed when gravity waves were the roughness elements on the sea-surface, travelling at a speed identical to the wind. In such cases, the turbulence driven transfer velocities (from surface renewal and micro-scale wave breaking) could be reduced from ≈20 cm∙h−1 to ≤ 5 cm∙h−1. However, when peak gravity waves were too flat, they were presumably replaced by capillary-gravity waves as roughness elements. Then, a substantial increase in the turbulence and roughness length was observed, despite the low and moderate winds, leading to transfer velocities up to twice as large as those predicted by empirical u10-based formulations.
Numerical Simulation of Volume Change of the Backshore Induced by Cross-Shore Aeolian Sediment Transport
Authors: Yokobori Masato , Kuriyama Yoshiaki , Shimozono Takenori , Tajima Yoshimitsu
Published: June 2020

Predicting the morphological changes of the backshore is vital for appropriate beach management because the backshore plays a significant role in the ecosystem and disaster prevention. In this study, a one-dimensional model was developed and applied to the Hasaki Coast in Japan to predict changes in backshore volume. The volume change was estimated from the difference between the aeolian sediment transport rates at the seaward and landward boundaries of the investigation area, considering the wind velocity and direction, sediment size, precipitation, and vegetation in the process. The model was calibrated and validated using the first and second halves of beach profile data obtained weekly at the Hasaki Coast over a 28-year period from 1987 to 2014. The validation suggests that the model can reasonably reproduce the cumulative volume change, which is the amount of volume change from the initial value, but it underestimates the time-varying fluctuations of the weekly averaged volume-change rate. This can be attributed to the presence of small-scale features, such as dense vegetation and wrack, which are not taken into account in the model. Although the model performance for the cumulative volume change was good, it overpredicted the values in the second half of the validation process. This can be attributed to the fact that the model is not able to predict reductions in the aeolian sediment transport rate caused by an increase in beach steepness.
Analysis of a Gyroscopic-Stabilized Floating Offshore Hybrid Wind-Wave Platform
Authors: Fenu Beatrice , Attanasio Valentino , Casalone Pietro , Novo Riccardo , Cervelli Giulia , Bonfanti Mauro , Sirigu Sergej Antonello , Bracco Giovanni , Mattiazzo Giuliana
Published: June 2020

The energy innovation scenario sees hybrid wind-wave platforms as a promising technology for reducing the variability of the power output and for the minimization of the cost of offshore marine renewable installations. This article presents a model that describes the installation of a 5 MW wind turbine on a floating platform designed by Fincantieri and equipped with gyroscopic stabilization. The use of gyros allows for the delivery of platform stabilization by damping the wave and wind induced motion on the floater and at the same time producing extra power. Shetland Island was chosen as the reference site because of its particularly harsh weather. Final results show that the total production of power in moderate and medium climate conditions is considerable thanks to the installation of the gyro, together with a significant stabilization of the platform in terms of pitching angle and nacelle acceleration.
NO Candida auris: Nitric Oxide in Nanotherapeutics to Combat Emerging Fungal Pathogen Candida auris
Authors: Cleare Levi G. , Li Kevin L. , Abuzeid Waleed M. , Nacharaju Parimala , Friedman Joel M. , Nosanchuk Joshua D.
Published: June 2020

Candida auris (C. auris) is an emerging pathogenic fungal species that is especially worrisome due to its high mortality rates and widespread antifungal resistance. Previous studies have demonstrated the efficacy of nitric oxide (NO) nanoparticles on Candida species, and, to our knowledge, this is the first study to investigate the antifungal effects of a NO-generating nanoparticle on C. auris. Six C. auris strains were incubated with a nanoparticle (NAC-SNO-np), which releases N-acetylcysteine S-nitrosothiol (NAC-SNO) and N-acetylcysteine (NAC), and generates NO, through colony forming unit (CFU) assays, and confocal laser scanning microscopy. NAC-SNO-np effectively eradicates planktonic and biofilm C. auris. Across all six strains, 10 mg/mL NAC-SNO-np significantly reduced the number of CFUs (p < 0.05) and demonstrated a >70% decrease in biofilm viability (p < 0.05). NAC-SNO-np effectively eradicates planktonic C. auris and significantly reduces C. auris biofilm formation. Hence, this novel NO-releasing nanoparticle shows promise as a future therapeutic.
Exchange Rate Risk and Uncertainty and Trade Flows: Asymmetric Evidence from Asia
Authors: Bahmani-Oskooee Mohsen , Akhtar Parveen , Ullah Sana , Majeed Muhammad Tariq
Published: June 2020

Very recently, the link between exchange rate volatility and trade flows has entered into a new direction in which researchers assess the possibility of asymmetric response of trade flows to a measure of exchange rate uncertainty. We add to this literature by estimating a linear and a nonlinear ARDL model to learn about the experiences of Asian countries, i.e., Pakistan, Japan, China, Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, and India. Like other studies in the literature, nonlinear models yielded relatively more significant results. In some cases, while the linear models showed no significant effects of exchange rate volatility on trade flows, the nonlinear models revealed significant effects. In some other cases, the opposite was true.
Land Consolidation at the Household Level in the Red River Delta, Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Thi Ha Thanh , Thai Thi Quynh Nhu , Tran Van Tuan , Pham Thi Phin , Doan Quang Cuong , Vu Khac Hung , Doan Huong Giang , Bui Quang Thanh
Published: June 2020

Land consolidation is an effective solution for the hindrances in agricultural production and rural development caused by land fragmentation. In the Red River Delta of Vietnam, where land is still highly fragmented, the application of land consolidation is required. By using a bottom-up approach, the paper aims to clarify the effect of land consolidation on farm households in selected communities (as case studies) of two provinces (Hung Yen and Vinh Phuc) in the Red River Delta. With the primary structured and semi-structured interview method, 172 household questionnaires and 22 in-depth questionnaires (from local officials) were collected. The results indicated that land consolidation could either change the spatial structure or expand the area of land parcels, facilitate the conversion of crop structure, increase household incomes, accelerate mechanization in agricultural production, and create more job opportunities for agricultural laborers. However, we also found that the land consolidation process conducted in the case studies is inadequate and lacks integration with other related policies.
Glacial Rock Flour as Soil Amendment in Subarctic Farming in South Greenland
Authors: Sukstorf Frederik Næsby , Bennike Ole , Elberling Bo
Published: June 2020

Agriculture in subarctic regions is limited by a short and cold growing season. With warming in the region, the number of growing days and, consequently, the potential for agricultural intensification and expansion may increase. However, subarctic soils are typically acidic, low in plant-available nutrients, and coarsely textured, so they require soil amendment prior to intensification. This is the case in South Greenland, where we tested the use of glacial rock flour (GRF) produced by glaciers as a soil amendment. An experiment was made on a farm in South Greenland during the 2019 summer to quantify the short-term effect of applying GRF to a field dominated by perennial timothy grass. Three treatments were compared to control sites (n = 5): 20 t GRF ha−1 without conventional NPK-fertilizer, as well as 20 and 40 t GRF ha−1 in combination with 25% NPK-fertilizer. The experiment showed no significant response in biomass production (aboveground and belowground) for the plots treated with GRF only. The low rate of GRF combined with 25% NKP showed a marked and significant increase in yield in contrast to a high GRF rate with NPK, which resulted in a significant reduction in yields. The chemical composition of the plants versus soil and GRF showed that the plant uptake of nutrients was significantly higher for NPK-fertilized plots, as expected, but no differences were found between GRF-treated plots and the control plots with respect to nutrient availability or pH in the soil. We conclude that adding water and fertilizer has the potential to increase yields in South Greenland, but applying glacial rock flour as a short-term agricultural supplement needs to be further investigated before it can be recommended.
Hybrid System Coupling Moving Bed Bioreactor with UV/O3 Oxidation and Membrane Separation Units for Treatment of Industrial Laundry Wastewater
Authors: Mozia Sylwia , Janus Magdalena , Bering Sławomira , Tarnowski Krzysztof , Mazur Jacek , Szymański Kacper , Morawski Antoni W.
Published: June 2020

This paper describes the investigations on the possibilities of treatment of wastewater generated in an industrial laundry with application of a combined biological-photooxidation- membrane system aimed at water recycle and reuse. The two treatment schemes were compared: 1) scheme A consisting of a treatment in a moving bed biological reactor (MBBR) followed by microfiltration (MF) and nanofiltration (NF), and 2) scheme B comprising MBBR followed by oxidation by photolysis enhanced with in situ generated O3 (UV/O3) after which MF and NF were applied. The removal efficiency in MBBR reached 95–97% for the biochemical oxygen demand; 90–93% for the chemical oxygen demand and 89–99% for an anionic and a nonionic surfactants. The application of UV/O3 system allowed to decrease the content of the total organic carbon by 68% after 36 h of operation with a mineralization rate of 0.36 mg/L·h. Due to UV/O3 pretreatment, a significant mitigation of membrane fouling in the case of both MF and NF processes was achieved. The MF permeate flux in the system B was over two times higher compared to that in the system A. Based on the obtained results it was concluded that the laundry wastewater pretreated in the MBBR-UV/O3-MF-NF system could be recycled to any stage of the laundry process.
Teicoplanin-Modified HPLC Column as a Source of Experimental Parameters for Prediction of the Anticonvulsant Activity of 1,2,4-Triazole-3-Thiones by the Regression Models
Authors: Flieger Jolanta , Orzeł Anna , Kowalska-Kępczyńska Anna , Pizoń Magdalena , Trębacz Hanna , Majerek Dariusz , Plech Tomasz , Płaziński Wojciech
Published: June 2020

The cell membrane is a complex system that consists of lipids, proteins, polysaccharides, and amphiphilic phospholipids. It plays an important role in ADME processes that are responsible for the final pharmaceutical effects of xenobiotics (bioavailability, activity). To study drug-membrane interaction at the molecular level, several high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) membrane model systems have been proposed which are mimicking mainly its lipid character. The aim of this work was to study interactions of new synthesized antiepileptic compounds of 4-alkyl-5-(3-chlorophenyl)-2,4-dihydro-3H-1,2,4-triazole-3-thione derivatives with Chirobiotic column containing glycoprotein ligand attached to the silica matrix. The affinity of the analytes to immobilized glycoprotein ligand was examined chromatographically in reversed-phase mode. The thermodynamics of interactions between bioactive compounds and teicoplanin was studied in terms of the van’t Hoff linear relationship ln k vs. 1/T in the range of 5–45 °C. Change in enthalpy (ΔH°), change in entropy (ΔS°) and change in Gibbs free energy (ΔG°) were estimated utilizing graphical extrapolation and interpolation methods. The density functional theory (DFT) approach and docking simulations were used to get the molecular interpretation and prove the obtained experimental results. Cross-correlations of chromatographic and thermodynamic parameters with non-empirical topological and quantum chemical indices suggest that the polarizability of analytes appears to be responsible for the interactions of the tested molecules with teicoplanin and, ultimately, their retention on the column. Experimental and theoretical parameters were subjected to statistical analysis using regression models. Partial least squares (PLS) regression model showed the usefulness of the experimentally measured parameter φ0 (MeOH) to discriminate between anticonvulsant active and inactive 1,2,4-triazole-3-thione derivatives. Obtained results point out the usefulness of interaction of potential anticonvulsants with glycoprotein class of compounds to anticipate their activity.
Polylactic Acid/Polycaprolactone Blends: On the Path to Circular Economy, Substituting Single-Use Commodity Plastic Products
Authors: Delgado-Aguilar Marc , Puig Rita , Sazdovski Ilija , Fullana-i-Palmer Pere
Published: June 2020

Circular economy comes to break the linear resource to waste economy, by introducing different strategies, two of them being: using material from renewable sources and producing biodegradable products. The present work aims at developing polylactic acid (PLA), typically made from fermented plant starch, and polycaprolactone (PCL) blends, a biodegradable polyester, to study their potential to be used as substitutes of oil-based commodity plastics. For this, PLA/PCL blends were compounded in a batch and lab scale internal mixer and processed by means of injection molding. Tensile and impact characteristics were determined and compared to different thermoplastic materials, such as polypropylene, high density polyethylene, polystyrene, and others. It has been found that the incorporation of PCL into a PLA matrix can lead to materials in the range of 18.25 to 63.13 megapascals of tensile strength, 0.56 to 3.82 gigapascals of Young’s modulus, 12.65 to 3.27 percent of strain at maximum strength, and 35 to 2 kJ/m2 of notched impact strength. The evolution of the tensile strength fitted the Voigt and Reuss model, while Young’s modulus was successfully described by the rule of mixtures. Toughness of PLA was significantly improved with the incorporation of PCL, significantly increasing the energy required to fracture the specimens. Blends containing more than 20 wt% of PCL did not break when unnotched specimens were tested. Overall, it was found that the obtained PLA/PCL blends can constitute a strong and environmentally friendly alternative to oil-based commodity materials.
Comparative Analysis of the Thermal Insulation of Multi-Layer Thermal Inserts in a Protective Jacket
Authors: Rogale Dubravko , Majstorović Goran , Firšt Rogale Snježana
Published: June 2020

This paper presents the measurement results of the thermal insulation of the outer shell, thermal inserts, and clothing systems, as well as a comparative analysis of the thermal insulation of multi-layer thermal inserts in a thermal jacket intended for professional services in cold weather. Detachable thermal inserts are made of double-faced, diamond-shaped quilted lining with different masses per unit area, and together with the jacket, they form clothing systems with different thermal properties. Tests of the thermal properties of clothing were performed on a thermal manikin. They showed that an increase in the mass of thermal insulation textile materials contributes to an increase in the thermal insulation properties of clothing and are insufficient for a complete analysis of the thermal properties of clothing. Therefore, for the first time, three new parameters of integration efficiency of the thermal insert, thermal insulation efficiency parameters, and efficiency parameters of the integration of the textile material integrated into the clothing system were introduced. Based on these parameters, it is possible to perform an effective and accurate comparative analysis of the thermal insulation of multi-layer thermal inserts in clothing. This makes it possible to apply exact scientific methods largely in the technical design of the thermal properties of integrated textile materials, instead of experience-based methods as in the past.
The Role of Polypropylene Microfibers in Thermal Properties and Post-Heating Behavior of Cementitious Composites
Authors: Irshidat Mohammad R. , Al-Nuaimi Nasser , Rabie Mohamed
Published: June 2020

This paper experimentally studied the effect of polypropylene (PP) microfibers on thermal and post-heating mechanical behaviors of cementitious composites. Cement mortars with small dosage of polypropylene fibers were prepared, heated at various temperatures (150 °C, 200 °C, 450 °C, and 600 °C), and then tested. The investigated parameters include residual compressive and flexural strengths, elastic modulus, fracture energy, stress intensity factors, failure modes, microstructure (scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging), thermal conductivity, heat flow (differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) test), mass loss (thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) test), and chemical composition (XRD analysis). The results showed the efficiency of PP fibers to enhance the post-heating behavior and the residual mechanical properties of cement mortar after heating. The presence of PP fibers did not affect the heat flow and the mass loss of cement mortar at room temperature. However, heating cement mortar at temperature beyond the melting point of the fibers negatively affected its thermal behavior. The presence of PP fibers played a major role in bridging the cracks and mitigating their propagation. Once the melting point of the polypropylene fibers is exceeded, the fibers melted and created extra voids in the microstructure of concrete.
Characteristics of Lightweight Cellular Concrete and Effects on Mechanical Properties
Authors: Yu Wei , Liang Xu , Ni Frank Mi-Way , Oyeyi Abimbola Grace , Tighe Susan
Published: June 2020

This study investigated the pore structure and its effects on mechanical properties of lightweight cellular concrete (LCC) in order to understand more and detailed characteristics of such structure. As part of investigation, environment scanning electron microscopes (ESEM) and industrial high-definition (HD) macro photography camera were separately used to capture and compare images of specimens. Physical properties of the pore structure, including pore area, size, perimeter, fit ellipse, and shape descriptors, were studied based on the image processing technology and software applications. Specimens with three different densities (400, 475, and 600 kg/m3) were prepared in the laboratory. Firstly, the effects of density on the characteristics of pore structure were investigated; furthermore, mechanical properties (compressive strength, modulus of elasticity and Poisson’s ratio, flexural strength and splitting tensile strength of LCC) were tested. The relationships among pore characteristics, density, and mechanical properties were analyzed. Based on the results obtained from the lab test—comparisons made between specimens with high-densities and those with low-densities—it was found significant variability in bubble size, thickness, and irregularity of pores. Furthermore, the increase of density is accompanied by better mechanical properties, and the main influencing factors are the thickness of the solid part and the shape of the bubble. The thicker of solid part and more regular pores of LCC has, the better mechanical properties are.
Profile Features of Emulsified Asphalt Mixture Containing Steel Slag Based on Laser Scanning
Authors: Wang Feng , Cui Peide , Zhang Xiaoshan , Yunusa Mujaheed , Xiao Yue
Published: June 2020

Micro-surfacing (MS), made of emulsified asphalt, is the most commonly used preventive maintenance technology in asphalt pavement. However, the studies on profile features of MS based on aggregate morphology are few. This study evaluated the profile features of MS and its effect on skid resistance. The aggregate morphologies were first characterized and modified emulsified asphalt was prepared. The three-dimensional profile features of four kinds of MS samples were captured by laser texture scanner. Results illustrate that steel slag aggregate can be used to enhance the skid resistance of pavement surface and bring about larger profile indexes than basalt and limestone due to its angularity index and flatness values. Further aging of steel slag to eliminate free calcium oxide (f-CaO) is recommended before being used in pavement surface layer.
Load Direction-Dependent Influence of Forming-Induced Initial Damage on the Fatigue Performance of 16MnCrS5 Steel
Authors: Moehring Kerstin , Walther Frank
Published: June 2020

Forming processes influence the mechanical properties of manufactured workpieces in general and by means of forming-induced initial damage in particular. The effect of the latter on performance capability is the underlying research aspect for the investigations conducted. In order to address this aspect, fatigue tests under compressive, tensile and compressive-tensile loads were set-up with discrete block-by-block increased amplitudes and constant amplitudes, and performed up to fracture or distinct lifetimes. Aiming at the correlation of the macroscale mechanical testing results at the mesoscale, intensive metallographic investigations of cross-sections using the microscopical methods of secondary electron analysis, energy dispersive spectroscopy and electron backscatter diffraction were performed. Thereby, the correlation of forming-induced initial damage and fatigue performance was determined, the relevance of compressive loads for the cyclic damage evolution was shown, and material anisotropy under compressive loads was indicated. Finally, the need was addressed to perform further investigations regarding crack propagations and crack arrest investigations in order to clarify the mechanism by which initial damage affects cyclic damage evolution. The relevance of the principal stress axis relative to the extrusion direction was emphasized and used as the basis of an argument for investigations under load paths with different stress directions.