bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Different Carbohydrate Sources on Alfalfa Silage Quality at Different Ensiling Days
Authors: Gao Run , Wang Bing , Jia Tingting , Luo Ying , Yu Zhu
Published: January 2021

This study was evaluated the effects of different carbohydrate sources on the fermentation profiles, chemical compositions, and correlation of fermentation profiles and chemical compositions with water-soluble carbohydrate (WSC) of alfalfa (Medicago sativa) silage. Alfalfa was harvested at early flowering stage from the third cutting in September 2018, wilted to 32% dry matter (DM) and chopped into 1–2 cm pieces. Treatments included the addition of pectin (PEC), starch (STA; powdered corn), molasses (MOL), and fructose (FRU), as well as distilled water as a control (CON). Afterward, 300 g of prepared alfalfa was packed into polyethylene bags, vacuumed, and sealed, after which they were stored at room temperature for 1, 3, 7, 15, and 30 d. FRU and PEC additions resulted in desirable fermentation profiles and chemical compositions throughout the ensiling period. FRU and PEC rapidly decreased the pH and increased Fleig’s point, exhibiting lower pH and higher Fleig’s point from 3 d to the end of ensiling. Acetic acid (AA), propionic acid (PA) and ammonia nitrogen (AN) contents of FRU and PEC were lower at 30 d after ensiling. Higher lactic acid (LA) contents were found in FRU and PEC from 7 d to the end of ensiling and higher LA:AA ratios from 15 d to the end of ensiling. Butyric acid (BA) was not detected at any point during the ensiling period. Additives exhibited higher DM content from 7 to 30 d after ensiling. The WSC content decreased as the number of ensiling days increased and was stable from 15 d to the end of ensiling. PEC, STA, and FRU exhibited higher WSC than CON. FRU and PEC improved the fermentation quality throughout the ensiling period. Thus, FRU and PEC or related agricultural byproducts may offer alternative additives for improving the alfalfa silage fermentation profile.
Storage Quality Characteristic of Two Minikiwi Fruit (Actinidia arguta (Siebold & Zucc.) Planch. ex Miq.) Cultivars: ‘Ananasnaya’ and ‘Bingo’—A New One Selected in Poland
Authors: Szpadzik Ewa , Zaraś-Januszkiewicz Ewa , Krupa Tomasz
Published: January 2021

The consumer acceptability of the fruit is very important aspect of distribution. Consumers expect high-quality fruit with high pro-health values. The intention of the research was to assess the quality of hardy kiwi fruit changes during storage in order to provide consumers with high-quality fruit and nutraceutical content. A particular challenge was to assess the storage capacity of the new Polish variety ‘Bingo’PBR. This is a protected Plant Breeder’s Right (PBR) cultivar in accordance with the Union Internationale pour la Protection des Obtentions Vegetates (UPOV). The storage quality of the fruit of the ‘Bingo’ cultivar was assessed in contrast to the fruit of the ‘Ananasnaya’ cultivar, the basic minikiwi cultivar. The experiment assessed the effect of the fruit ripeness phase during harvest (°Brix −7.7 and 9.0) and the effect of the storage conditions, i.e., normal atmosphere cold store (0.1% CO2: 21% O2) versus controlled atmosphere (1.5% CO2: 1.5% O2). In the fruit evaluation, the focus was concentrated on changes in the basic color of the peel, firmness, soluble solids content, acidity, as well as the main health-promoting attributes, i.e., antioxidant activity, vitamin C content and total polyphenols. In the experiment, it was found the fruits of ‘Ananasnaya’ variety were almost 40% harder than the fruits of ‘Bingo’PBR variety. The CA technology (1.5% CO2: 1.5% O2) allows for the acceptable firmness of the fruit for up to 56 days of storage. The earlier harvest with an extract content of 7.0–7.5°Brix also promotes higher fruit firmness. Fruits stored in a normal atmosphere cold store ripen faster and are fully ripe after 28 days. ‘Bingo’PBR variety is characterized by fruits with a higher ascorbic acid content than the fruits of ‘Ananasnaya’ variety. The vitamin C content in fruits increases up to 28 days, regardless of the conditions in which they are stored. The content of polyphenols does not change significantly during storage, which reflects the higher stability of these compounds in fruits.
Whole Genome Sequencing Reveals the Effects of Recent Artificial Selection on Litter Size of Bamei Mutton Sheep
Authors: Yao Yaxin , Pan Zhangyuan , Di Ran , Liu Qiuyue , Hu Wenping , Guo Xiaofei , He Xiaoyun , Gan Shangquan , Wang Xiangyu , Chu Mingxing
Published: January 2021

Bamei mutton sheep is a Chinese domestic sheep breed developed by crossing German Mutton Merino sheep and indigenous Mongolian sheep for meat production. Here, we focused on detecting candidate genes associated with the increasing of the litter size in this breeds under recent artificial selection to improve the efficiency of mutton production. We selected five high- and five low-fecundity Bamei mutton sheep for whole-genome resequencing to identify candidate genes for sheep prolificacy. We used the FST and XP-EHH statistical approach to detect the selective sweeps between these two groups. Combining the two selective sweep methods, the reproduction-related genes JUN, ITPR3, PLCB2, HERC5, and KDM4B were detected. JUN, ITPR3, and PLCB2 play vital roles in GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone), oxytocin, and estrogen signaling pathway. Moreover, KDM4B, which had the highest FST value, exhibits demethylase activity. It can affect reproduction by binding the promoters of estrogen-regulated genes, such as FOXA1 (forkhead box A1) and ESR1 (estrogen receptor 1). Notably, one nonsynonymous mutation (p.S936A) specific to the high-prolificacy group was identified at the TUDOR domain of KDM4B. These observations provide a new opportunity to research the genetic variation influencing fecundity traits within a population evolving under artificial selection. The identified genomic regions that are responsible for litter size can in turn be used for further selection.
Estimation of the Age and Reproductive Performance of Wild-Born and Escaped Mink (Neovison vison) Caught in the Wild in Denmark
Authors: Pagh Sussie , Pertoldi Cino , Chriel Mariann , Petersen Heidi Huus , Jensen Trine Hammer , Madsen Sussi , Kraft David Chr. Evar , Schou Toke Munk , Hansen Mette Sif
Published: January 2021

The feral mink population in Denmark consists of two groups of animals: mink born in the wild and mink that have recently escaped from farms. The aims of this study were to: (1) estimate the reproductive performance and mortality of the Danish mink born in the wild (wild-born) and mink escaped from farms (captive-born); (2) discuss the likelihood of a self-sustaining population of wild-born mink in Denmark; and (3) model the relationship between the pulp cavity width and the age of mink. During 2018, 247 wild caught mink were sent for necropsy at the Danish National Veterinary Institute. Based on body length, 112 were determined as captive-born and 96 as wild-born. The mean litter size ± SE of wild-born females was 7.6 ± 0.9 (range: 5–11 kits) and for captive-born females 5.9 ± 0.9 (range: 1–10 kits). The relationship between age (in months) of mink and pulp cavity width was highly significant. Individuals with a pulp cavity width of >35% were younger than one year. Based on fecundity, the turnover of the mink population was estimated to be 66%, and the yearly mortality was estimated at 69%. Hence, the population is slightly declining. In conclusion, a feral reproducing mink population in Denmark persists without a continuous influx of captive-born mink from farms.
Inducing Ovulation with hCG Improves Fertility Outcomes of Co-Dominant Follicle Drainage to Avoid Twin Pregnancy in Dairy Cows
Authors: Garcia-Ispierto Irina , Pando Mònica , Llobera-Balcells Mònica
Published: January 2021

Twin pregnancies are undesirable in dairy cattle as they dramatically compromise cow lifespan and, consequently, herd economy. Clinical problems in cows arise from the time of pregnancy diagnosis to pregnancy loss, abortion, or parturition. The drainage of co-dominant follicles in cows with two or more follicles at insemination prevents twin pregnancy. The objective of this study was to compare the effectiveness of draining the smaller of two follicles through a simplified maneuver not requiring ultrasonography in cows in their third or more lactation, and then inducing ovulation immediately before artificial insemination (AI) with GnRH or human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG). Animals were monitored by ultrasound at AI and randomly assigned to the groups: follicular drainage and treatment with GnRH (Deph; n = 60), follicular drainage and treatment with hCG (hCG; n = 60), and non-drainage (ND; n = 60) as control cows. On the basis of odds ratios, cows treated with hCG were 2.1 times more likely to become pregnant than control animals. Our results reveal the efficacy of hCG treatment at AI in cows with two follicles of pre-ovulatory size subjected to a simple follicular drainage procedure.
Antibiotic Prescribing Practices in Endodontic Infections: A Survey of Dentists in Serbia
Authors: Drobac Milan , Otasevic Katarina , Ramic Bojana , Cvjeticanin Milica , Stojanac Igor , Petrovic Ljubomir
Published: January 2021

The study goal was to provide an overview of antibiotic prescribing practices of Serbian dentists when treating endodontic infections and to disseminate the current ESE (European Society of Endodontology) recommendations to the study participants. A link to an online questionnaire was sent to 628 Serbian dentists whose email addresses were publicly available on the Internet, 158 of whom responded to the survey, resulting in a 25.16% response rate. The significance of possible associations was assessed via the Chi-squared test and Cramer’s V measure of association, with p < 0.05 considered as statistically significant. According to the study findings, 55.7% of respondents prescribed a 5-day antibiotic course. Moreover, Amoxicillin 500 mg was the first-choice antibiotic for 55.1% of the respondents, followed by Clindamycin 600 mg (18.4%). For patients allergic to penicillin, 61.4% of respondents prescribed Clindamycin. Statistically significant differences emerged only in relation to acute apical abscess with systemic involvement, whereby dentists aged 46–55 were least likely to prescribe antibiotics in these clinical situations (p = 0.04). Analyses further revealed that recommendations for safe antibiotic prescribing practices were not always followed, as in certain cases, patients were given antibiotics even when this was not indicated. These findings highlight the need for additional education on responsible antibiotic use to prevent bacterial resistance.
Insects, Rodents, and Pets as Reservoirs, Vectors, and Sentinels of Antimicrobial Resistance
Authors: Gwenzi Willis , Chaukura Nhamo , Muisa-Zikali Norah , Teta Charles , Musvuugwa Tendai , Rzymski Piotr , Abia Akebe Luther King
Published: January 2021

This paper reviews the occurrence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in insects, rodents, and pets. Insects (e.g., houseflies, cockroaches), rodents (rats, mice), and pets (dogs, cats) act as reservoirs of AMR for first-line and last-resort antimicrobial agents. AMR proliferates in insects, rodents, and pets, and their skin and gut systems. Subsequently, insects, rodents, and pets act as vectors that disseminate AMR to humans via direct contact, human food contamination, and horizontal gene transfer. Thus, insects, rodents, and pets might act as sentinels or bioindicators of AMR. Human health risks are discussed, including those unique to low-income countries. Current evidence on human health risks is largely inferential and based on qualitative data, but comprehensive statistics based on quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA) are still lacking. Hence, tracing human health risks of AMR to insects, rodents, and pets, remains a challenge. To safeguard human health, mitigation measures are proposed, based on the one-health approach. Future research should include human health risk analysis using QMRA, and the application of in-silico techniques, genomics, network analysis, and ’big data’ analytical tools to understand the role of household insects, rodents, and pets in the persistence, circulation, and health risks of AMR.
Proximity Ligation Assay Detection of Protein–DNA Interactions—Is There a Link between Heme Oxygenase-1 and G-quadruplexes?
Authors: Krzeptowski Wojciech , Chudy Patryk , Sokołowski Grzegorz , Żukowska Monika , Kusienicka Anna , Seretny Agnieszka , Kalita Agata , Czmoczek Alicja , Gubała Jakub , Baran Sonia , Klóska Damian , Jeż Mateusz , Stępniewski Jacek , Szade Krzysztof , Szade Agata , Grochot-Przęczek Anna , Józkowicz Alicja , Nowak Witold N.
Published: January 2021

G-quadruplexes (G4) are stacked nucleic acid structures that are stabilized by heme. In cells, they affect DNA replication and gene transcription. They are unwound by several helicases but the composition of the repair complex and its heme sensitivity are unclear. We found that the accumulation of G-quadruplexes is affected by heme oxygenase-1 (Hmox1) expression, but in a cell-type-specific manner: hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) from Hmox1−/− mice have upregulated expressions of G4-unwinding helicases (e.g., Brip1, Pif1) and show weaker staining for G-quadruplexes, whereas Hmox1-deficient murine induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), despite the upregulation of helicases, have more G-quadruplexes, especially after exposure to exogenous heme. Using iPSCs expressing only nuclear or only cytoplasmic forms of Hmox1, we found that nuclear localization promotes G4 removal. We demonstrated that the proximity ligation assay (PLA) can detect cellular co-localization of G-quadruplexes with helicases, as well as with HMOX1, suggesting the potential role of HMOX1 in G4 modifications. However, this colocalization does not mean a direct interaction was detectable using the immunoprecipitation assay. Therefore, we concluded that HMOX1 influences G4 accumulation, but rather as one of the proteins regulating the heme availability, not as a rate-limiting factor. It is noteworthy that cellular G4–protein colocalizations can be quantitatively analyzed using PLA, even in rare cells.
CARD8 and IL1B Polymorphisms Influence MRI Brain Patterns in Newborns with Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy Treated with Hypothermia
Authors: Esih Katarina , Goričar Katja , Rener-Primec Zvonka , Dolžan Vita , Soltirovska-Šalamon Aneta
Published: January 2021

Inflammation and oxidative stress are recognized as important contributors of brain injury in newborns due to a perinatal hypoxic-ischemic (HI) insult. Genetic variability in these pathways could influence the response to HI and the outcome of brain injury. The aim of our study was to evaluate the impact of common single-nucleotide polymorphisms in the genes involved in inflammation and response to oxidative stress on brain injury in newborns after perinatal HI insult based on the severity and pattern of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings. The DNA of 44 subjects was isolated from buccal swabs. Genotyping was performed for NLRP3 rs35829419, CARD8 rs2043211, IL1B rs16944, IL1B rs1143623, IL1B rs1071676, TNF rs1800629, CAT rs1001179, SOD2 rs4880, and GPX1 rs1050450. Polymorphism in CARD8 was found to be protective against HI brain injury detected by MRI overall findings. Polymorphisms in IL1B were associated with posterior limb of internal capsule, basal ganglia, and white matter brain patterns determined by MRI. Our results suggest a possible association between genetic variability in inflammation- and antioxidant-related pathways and the severity of brain injury after HI insult in newborns.
Mitochondrial Functionality in Male Fertility: From Spermatogenesis to Fertilization
Authors: Park Yoo-Jin , Pang Myung-Geol
Published: January 2021

Mitochondria are structurally and functionally distinct organelles that produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP) through oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), to provide energy to spermatozoa. They can also produce reactive oxidation species (ROS). While a moderate concentration of ROS is critical for tyrosine phosphorylation in cholesterol efflux, sperm–egg interaction, and fertilization, excessive ROS generation is associated with male infertility. Moreover, mitochondria participate in diverse processes ranging from spermatogenesis to fertilization to regulate male fertility. This review aimed to summarize the roles of mitochondria in male fertility depending on the sperm developmental stage (from male reproductive tract to female reproductive tract). Moreover, mitochondria are also involved in testosterone production, regulation of proton secretion into the lumen to maintain an acidic condition in the epididymis, and sperm DNA condensation during epididymal maturation. We also established the new signaling pathway using previous proteomic data associated with male fertility, to understand the overall role of mitochondria in male fertility. The pathway revealed that male infertility is associated with a loss of mitochondrial proteins in spermatozoa, which induces low sperm motility, reduces OXPHOS activity, and results in male infertility.
Lipocalin-2 Deficiency Reduces Oxidative Stress and Neuroinflammation and Results in Attenuation of Kainic Acid-Induced Hippocampal Cell Death
Authors: Shin Hyun Joo , Jeong Eun Ae , Lee Jong Youl , An Hyeong Seok , Jang Hye Min , Ahn Yu Jeong , Lee Jaewoong , Kim Kyung Eun , Roh Gu Seob
Published: January 2021

The hippocampal cell death that follows kainic acid (KA)-induced seizures is associated with blood–brain barrier (BBB) leakage and oxidative stress. Lipocalin-2 (LCN2) is an iron-trafficking protein which contributes to both oxidative stress and inflammation. However, LCN2′s role in KA-induced hippocampal cell death is not clear. Here, we examine the effect of blocking LCN2 genetically on neuroinflammation and oxidative stress in KA-induced neuronal death. LCN2 deficiency reduced neuronal cell death and BBB leakage in the KA-treated hippocampus. In addition to LCN2 upregulation in the KA-treated hippocampus, circulating LCN2 levels were significantly increased in KA-treated wild-type (WT) mice. In LCN2 knockout mice, we found that the expressions of neutrophil markers myeloperoxidase and neutrophil elastase were decreased compared to their expressions in WT mice following KA treatment. Furthermore, LCN2 deficiency also attenuated KA-induced iron overload and oxidative stress in the hippocampus. These findings indicate that LCN2 may play an important role in iron-related oxidative stress and neuroinflammation in KA-induced hippocampal cell death.
Techno-Economic Assessment of a Gasification Plant for Distributed Cogeneration in the Agrifood Sector
Authors: Aguado Roque , Vera David , López-García Diego A. , Torreglosa Juan P. , Jurado Francisco
Published: January 2021

This research work presents a techno-economic analysis of a biomass gasification plant fueled with residues from the olive oil and almond industries for combined heat and power generation in the agrifood sector. The experimental plant consists of a downdraft fixed bed gasifier, a producer gas cleaning and cooling system and a spark-ignition engine–generator set as a power generation unit, which generates about 10–12 kW of rated electric power. With an average consumption between 13–14 kg/h of exhausted olive pomace pellets as feedstock, the producer gas volumetric flow rate was 31 Nm3/h (vol. %: 19.2 H2, 12.9 CO, 1.9 CH4, 19.2 CO2, 46.7 N2). The average cold gas efficiency was nearly 63%. This work also addresses the characterization and potential application of the carbonaceous solid residue (biochar), discharged from the gasifier at 1.7 kg/h. Finally, an economic feasibility analysis was developed, wherein the payback period ranges between 5–9 years.
Financial Optimization of the Resource-Constrained Project Scheduling Problem with Milestones Payments
Authors: Klimek Marcin
Published: January 2021

This article presents the resource-constrained project scheduling problem with the discounted cash flow maximization criterion from the perspective of a contractor. Cash flows are considered as the contractor’s expenses related to the execution of activities and client’s payments (revenue to the contractor) after the completion of contractual stages. To solve the problem, dedicated techniques to generate solutions and a simulated annealing algorithm are proposed. Finally, the proposed procedures are examined using the test library, Project Scheduling Library (PSPLIB). An experimental analysis identified the efficient moves and techniques for creating solutions, that is backward scheduling with optimization of completion times of project stages and triple justification.
Modeling of Transmission Compliance and Hysteresis Considering Degradation in a Harmonic Drive
Authors: Tang Ting , Jia Hang , Li Junyang , Wang Jiaxu , Zeng Xingyu
Published: January 2021

Transmission compliance and hysteresis behaviors are associated with harmonic drives. The experimental observation of a harmonic drive showed that these behaviors are significantly degraded with increasing service time, and their accurate modeling is expected to improve the performance of the control system of harmonic drive-based devices such as robot manipulators. In this paper, a new model is proposed to capture transmission compliance and hysteresis and their degradation. The phenomenon is represented through a combination of the nonlinear stiffness component and the micro-sliding friction in the tooth engagement area. The proposed model considered the multi-tooth meshing and the interference effects of the reducer. The parameters of the model were identified using optimization techniques. Numerical simulations and experimental data using a specialized harmonic drive test device were compared to demonstrate the proposed model.
Vehicle Routing Optimisation in Humanitarian Operations: A Survey on Modelling and Optimisation Approaches
Authors: Anuar Wadi Khalid , Lee Lai Soon , Pickl Stefan , Seow Hsin-Vonn
Published: January 2021

The growing field of humanitarian operations is driven by frequent events of disasters seen in the world today. Within this field, Operations Research (OR) plays a critical role in alleviating the suffering of victims that are impacted by disasters. This paper focuses on the branch of a well-known OR problem, known as the Vehicle Routing Problem (VRP), within the selected scope of humanitarian operations. A total of 123 papers of the last decade are reviewed and classified under the humanitarian operations of supply and delivery, evacuation as well as rescue operations. Besides specific disaster management phases and disaster types, various modelling challenges are highlighted, hinting towards a richer and more complex VRP seen under selected model characteristic classifications. Furthermore, established solution approaches, including hybrid solutions, are highlighted and classified, discussing how they are applied in the context of these humanitarian operations. The inclusion of a machine learning solution approach under the same classification is proposed. Finally, the trend and future outlook of VRP for the suggested humanitarian operations are discussed and highlighted.
A Novel Approach to EEG Speech Activity Detection with Visual Stimuli and Mobile BCI
Authors: Koctúrová Marianna , Juhár Jozef
Published: January 2021

With the ever-progressing development in the field of computational and analytical science the last decade has seen a big improvement in the accuracy of electroencephalography (EEG) technology. Studies try to examine possibilities to use high dimensional EEG data as a source for Brain to Computer Interface. Applications of EEG Brain to computer interface vary from emotion recognition, simple computer/device control, speech recognition up to Intelligent Prosthesis. Our research presented in this paper was focused on the study of the problematic speech activity detection using EEG data. The novel approach used in this research involved the use visual stimuli, such as reading and colour naming, and signals of speech activity detectable by EEG technology. Our proposed solution is based on a shallow Feed-Forward Artificial Neural Network with only 100 hidden neurons. Standard features such as signal energy, standard deviation, RMS, skewness, kurtosis were calculated from the original signal from 16 EEG electrodes. The novel approach in the field of Brain to computer interface applications was utilised to calculated additional set of features from the minimum phase signal. Our experimental results demonstrated F1 score of 86.80% and 83.69% speech detection accuracy based on the analysis of EEG signal from single subject and cross-subject models respectively. The importance of these results lies in the novel utilisation of the mobile device to record the nerve signals which can serve as the stepping stone for the transfer of Brain to computer interface technology from technology from a controlled environment to the real-life conditions.
Numerical Design and Laboratory Testing of Encapsulated PCM Panels for PCM-Air Heat Exchangers
Authors: Santos Thiago , Wrobel Luiz C. , Hopper Nick , Kolokotroni Maria
Published: January 2021

Heat transfer between encapsulated PCM panels and air plays an important role in PCM-Air heat exchangers. A new design for the encapsulation panel was developed considering practical aspects such as the cost of production and ease of manufacturing, in addition to heat transfer and pressure drop. A number of encapsulated panel surfaces were first investigated via 3D CFD simulations and compared with an existing panel in use by a commercial PCM-Air heat exchanger manufacturer. After validation, 2D CFD simulations were carried out for 32 different geometries to select the most effective design, which was fabricated and tested in the laboratory. Laboratory parameters tested included heat transfer, pressure drop and melting/solidifying. The laboratory results confirmed the improvements of the new panel in comparison with the existing panel and a flat panel. It was found that the proposed design doubled the heat transfer, holds 13.7% more material and the fan can overcome the increased pressure drop.
Adaptive Tracking PID and FOPID Speed Control of an Elastically Attached Load Driven by a DC Motor at Almost Step Disturbance of Loading Torque and Parametric Excitation
Authors: Olejnik Paweł , Adamski Paweł , Batory Damian , Awrejcewicz Jan
Published: January 2021

Adaptive tracking control of the speed of a very elastically attached circular load driven by a direct current motor accompanied with an adaptive conventional and a fractional-order Proportional Integral Derivative (PID) controller is studied. It refers to improving the closed-loop control system response of elastically coupled components of drivelines. The motor and the load mechatronic models and the block diagrams are constructed. Parameters of the PID controller in the model reference control are both constant, as well as vary in time. The adaptive control method is improved by the application of a new closed-loop control structure canceling error dynamics. A few competing control strategies are tested based on the application of two types low and high frequency stepwise increasing variations of loading torque and damping coefficient of motion. Moreover, the performance of the control strategies is verified by Integral Time-Weighted Absolute Error (ITAE) index, since their robustness is evaluated by applying a sine modulated triangle waves of selected electric parameters. Therefore, a dynamic forcing and parameter uncertainty is applied. Simulation results are compared for checking the proposed methods.
Conservation Integrals in Nonhomogeneous Materials with Flexoelectricity
Authors: Yu Pengfei , Leng Weifeng , Suo Yaohong
Published: January 2021

The flexoelectricity, which is a new electromechanical coupling phenomenon between strain gradients and electric polarization, has a great influence on the fracture analysis of flexoelectric solids due to the large gradients near the cracks. On the other hand, although the flexoelectricity has been extensively investigated in recent decades, the study on flexoelectricity in nonhomogeneous materials is still rare, especially the fracture problems. Therefore, in this manuscript, the conservation integrals for nonhomogeneous flexoelectric materials are obtained to solve the fracture problem. Application of operators such as grad, div, and curl to electric Gibbs free energy and internal energy, the energy-momentum tensor, angular momentum tensor, and dilatation flux can also be derived. We examine the correctness of the conservation integrals by comparing with the previous work and discuss the operator method here and Noether theorem in the previous work. Finally, considering the flexoelectric effect, a nonhomogeneous beam problem with crack is solved to show the application of the conservation integrals.
X-ray Photoelectron Spectra of Ag-Au Colloidal Nanoparticles after Interaction with Linear Carbon Chains
Authors: Zhidkov Ivan S. , Kurmaev Ernst Z. , Condorelli Marcello , Cholakh Seif O. , Boyarchenkov Alexey S. , Fazio Enza , D’Urso Luisa
Published: January 2021

The results of X-ray photoelectron spectra (XPS) characterization of the surface of Ag-Au colloidal nanoparticles (Ag-Au NPs), prepared by laser ablation in water before and after interaction with linear carbon chains (LCC), are presented. No additional features appear in high-energy resolved XPS core level spectra of Ag-Au NPs which indicates that surface is not oxidized. The measurements of XPS Ag 3d-spectrum of (Ag-Au)@LCC manifests the additional low-energy structure that is associated with the formation of Ag–C bonds. The charge transfer between Au atoms on the NPs surface and LCC was established. Additionally, some oxidation of the Ag atoms on the surface of (Ag-Au)@LCC is observed which arises during laser ablation in water. We assume that oxidative species will preferably interact with the areas outside the LCC instead of oxidizing the carbon chains which was confirmed by XPS C 1s spectra.
Hydroxyl Radical Generation by the H2O2/CuII/Phenanthroline System under Both Neutral and Alkaline Conditions: An EPR/Spin-Trapping Investigation
Authors: Walger Elsa , Marlin Nathalie , Mortha Gérard , Molton Florian , Duboc Carole
Published: January 2021

The copper–phenanthroline complex CuI(Phen)2 was the first artificial nuclease studied in biology. The mechanism responsible for this activity involves CuII(Phen)2 and H2O2. Even if H2O2/Cu systems have been extensively studied in biology and oxidative chemistry, most of these studies were carried out at physiological pH only, and little information is available on the generation of radicals by the H2O2/CuII-Phen system. In the context of paper pulp bleaching to improve the bleaching ability of H2O2, this system has been investigated, mostly at alkaline pH, and more recently at near-neutral pH in the case of dyed cellulosic fibers. Hence, this paper aims at studying the production of radicals with the H2O2/CuII-Phen system at near-neutral and alkaline pHs. Using the EPR/spin-trapping method, HO• formation was monitored to understand the mechanisms involved. DMPO was used as a spin-trap to form DMPO–OH in the presence of HO•, and two HO• scavengers were compared to identify the origin of the observed DMPO–OH adduct, as nucleophilic addition of water onto DMPO leads to the same adduct. H2O2 decomposition was enhanced by the addition of CuII–Phen (and only slightly by addition of CuSO4), reaching a level similar to the Fenton reagent at near-neutral pH. This evidences the role of Phen, which improves the effect of CuII by tuning the electronic structure and structural properties of the corresponding CuII complexes.
Influence of Non-Thermal Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Jet on Extracellular Activity of α-Amylase in Aspergillus oryzae
Authors: Veerana Mayura , Choi Eun Ha , Park Gyungsoon
Published: January 2021

In a previous study, we found that plasma can enhance spore germination and α-amylase secretion in A. oryzae, a beneficial fungus used in fermentation. To confirm this, in the current study, we investigated the effects of plasma on development and α-amylase secretion using an enlarged sample size and a different plasma source: a plasma jet. There was a ~10% (p < 0.01) increase in spore germination upon non-thermal atmospheric pressure plasma jet (NTAPPJ) treatment for 5 min and 10 min, as compared with the control (no plasma treatment). The activity of α-amylase detected in potato dextrose broth (PDB) media during incubation was significantly elevated in plasma-treated samples, with a more obvious increase upon 10 min and 15 min treatments and 24–96 h incubation periods. The levels of the oxidation reduction potential (ORP) and NOX (nitrogen oxide species) were higher in the plasma-treated samples than in the control samples, suggesting that these two variables could serve as standard indicators for enhancing α-amylase activity after plasma treatment. Genome sequencing analysis showed approximately 0.0016–0.0017% variations (changes in 596–655 base pairs out of a total of 37,912,014 base pairs) in the genomic DNA sequence of A. oryzae after plasma treatment. Our results suggest that NATPPJ can enhance the spore germination and extracellular activity of α-amylase, probably by increasing the levels of ORP and NOX to an optimum level.
A Dual-Band Modified Franklin mm-Wave Antenna for 5G Wireless Applications
Authors: Surendran Arjun , B Aravind , Ali Tanweer , Kumar Om Prakash , Kumar Pradeep , Anguera Jaume
Published: January 2021

Franklin array antennas are considered as one of the most competitive candidates for millimeter-wave (mmW) 5G applications due to their compact size, simple geometry and high gain. This paper describes a microstrip Franklin antenna array for fifth generation (5G) wireless applications. The proposed modified Franklin array is based on a collinear array structure with the objective of achieving broad bandwidth, high directivity, and dual-band operation at 22.7 and 34.9 GHz. The designed antenna consists of a 3 × 3 array patch element as the radiating part and a 3 × 3 slotted ground plane operating at a multiband resonance in the mmW range. The dimensions of the patch antennas are designed based on λ/2 of the second resonant frequency. The designed antenna shows dual band operation with a total impedance bandwidth ranging from 21.5 to 24.3 GHz (fractional bandwidth of 12.2%) at the first band and from 33.9 to 36 GHz (fractional bandwidth of 6%) at the second band in simulation. In measurement, the impedance bandwidth ranges from 21.5 to 24.5 GHz (fractional bandwidth of 13%) at the first band and from 34.3 to 36.2 GHz (fractional bandwidth of 5.3%) at the second band, respectively. The performance of the antenna is analyzed by parametric analysis by modifying various parameters of the antenna. All the necessary simulations are carried out using HFSS v.14.0.
Experimental Characterization of Low-Speed Passive Discharge Losses of a Flywheel Energy Storage System
Authors: Skinner Miles , Mertiny Pierre
Published: January 2021

Flywheel energy storage has a wide range of applications in energy grids and transportation. The adoption of high-performance components has made this technology a viable alternative for substituting or complementing other storage devices. Flywheel energy storage systems are subject to passive discharge attributed primarily to electrical machine losses, bearing rolling friction, and aerodynamic drag of the flywheel rotor. In the present study, measurements are presented for complete discharge experiments using a flywheel system featuring a vacuum enclosure. Best-fit equations were applied to the test data and compared to analytical models. Analysis of the best-fit equations indicates that they may serve as empirical models for approximating passive discharge under given conditions. Bearing losses, which varied linearly with velocity but were otherwise unaffected throughout the experiments, were larger than aerodynamic drag at low air pressures and low velocities. Aerodynamic drag became significant as velocity exceeded approximately 3400 rpm. The electrical machine was found to be the most significant source of passive discharge at all velocities and pressures. Based on these findings, it is recommended to maintain a low-pressure environment in the flywheel enclosure and to decouple the electrical machine from the rotor whenever possible to eliminate associated losses.
Complex Networks Reveal Teleconnections between the Global SST and Rainfall in Southwest China
Authors: Qiao Panjie , Liu Wenqi , Zhang Yongwen , Gong Zhiqiang
Published: January 2021

Droughts and floods have frequently occurred in Southwest China (SWC) during the past several decades. Yet, the understanding of the mechanism of precipitation in SWC is still a challenge, since the East Asian monsoon and Indian monsoon potentially influence the rainfall in this region. Thus, the prediction of precipitation in SWC has become a difficult and critical topic in climatology. We develop a novel multi-variable network-based method to delineate the relations between the global sea surface temperature anomalies (SSTA) and the precipitation anomalies (PA) in SWC. Our results show that the out-degree patterns in the Pacific, Atlantic and Indian Ocean significantly influence the PA in SWC. In particular, we find that such patterns dominated by extreme precipitation change with the seasons. Furthermore, we uncover that the teleconnections between the global SSTA and rainfall can be described by the in-degree patterns, which dominated by several vital nodes within SWC. Based on the characteristics of these nodes, we find that the key SSTA areas affect the pattern of the nodes in SWC with some specific time delays that could be helpful to improve the long-term prediction of precipitation in SWC.
Forecasting Plant and Crop Disease: An Explorative Study on Current Algorithms
Authors: Fenu Gianni , Malloci Francesca Maridina
Published: January 2021

Every year, plant diseases cause a significant loss of valuable food crops around the world. The plant and crop disease management practice implemented in order to mitigate damages have changed considerably. Today, through the application of new information and communication technologies, it is possible to predict the onset or change in the severity of diseases using modern big data analysis techniques. In this paper, we present an analysis and classification of research studies conducted over the past decade that forecast the onset of disease at a pre-symptomatic stage (i.e., symptoms not visible to the naked eye) or at an early stage. We examine the specific approaches and methods adopted, pre-processing techniques and data used, performance metrics, and expected results, highlighting the issues encountered. The results of the study reveal that this practice is still in its infancy and that many barriers need to be overcome.
Sub-Fractions of Red Blood Cells Respond Differently to Shear Exposure Following Superoxide Treatment
Authors: Grau Marijke , Kuck Lennart , Dietz Thomas , Bloch Wilhelm , Simmonds Michael J.
Published: January 2021

Red blood cell (RBC) deformability is an essential component of microcirculatory function that appears to be enhanced by physiological shear stress, while being negatively affected by supraphysiological shears and/or free radical exposure. Given that blood contains RBCs with non-uniform physical properties, whether all cells equivalently tolerate mechanical and oxidative stresses remains poorly understood. We thus partitioned blood into old and young RBCs which were exposed to phenazine methosulfate (PMS) that generates intracellular superoxide and/or specific mechanical stress. Measured RBC deformability was lower in old compared to young RBCs. PMS increased total free radicals in both sub-populations, and RBC deformability decreased accordingly. Shear exposure did not affect reactive species in the sub-populations but reduced RBC nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activation and intriguingly increased RBC deformability in old RBCs. The co-application of PMS and shear exposure also improved cellular deformability in older cells previously exposed to reactive oxygen species (ROS), but not in younger cells. Outputs of NO generation appeared dependent on cell age; in general, stressors applied to younger RBCs tended to induce S-nitrosylation of RBC cytoskeletal proteins, while older RBCs tended to reflect markers of nitrosative stress. We thus present novel findings pertaining to the interplay of mechanical stress and redox metabolism in circulating RBC sub-populations.
Force Generation on the Hallux Is More Affected by the Ankle Joint Angle than the Lesser Toes: An In Vivo Human Study
Authors: Saeki Junya , Iwanuma Soichiro , Torii Suguru
Published: January 2021

The structure of the first toe is independent of that of the other toes, while the functional difference remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate the difference in the force generation characteristics between the plantar-flexion of the first and second–fifth metatarsophalangeal joints (MTPJs) by comparing the maximal voluntary plantar-flexion torques (MVC torque) at different MTPJs and ankle positions. The MVC torques of the first and second–fifth MTPJs were measured at 0°, 15°, 30°, and 45° dorsiflexed positions of the MTPJs, and at 20° plantar-flexed, neutral, and 20° dorsiflexed positions of the ankle. Two-way repeated measures analyses of variance with Holm’s multiple comparison test (MTPJ position × ankle position) were performed. When the MTPJ was dorsiflexed at 0°, 15°, and 30°, the MVC torque of the first MTPJ when the ankle was dorsiflexed at 20° was higher than that when the ankle was plantar-flexed at 20°. However, the ankle position had no significant effect on the MVC torque of the second–fifth MTPJ. Thus, the MVC torque of the first MTPJ was more affected by the ankle position than the second–fifth MTPJs.
Microscopy Methods for Biofilm Imaging: Focus on SEM and VP-SEM Pros and Cons
Authors: Relucenti Michela , Familiari Giuseppe , Donfrancesco Orlando , Taurino Maurizio , Li Xiaobo , Chen Rui , Artini Marco , Papa Rosanna , Selan Laura
Published: January 2021

Several imaging methodologies have been used in biofilm studies, contributing to deepening the knowledge on their structure. This review illustrates the most widely used microscopy techniques in biofilm investigations, focusing on traditional and innovative scanning electron microscopy techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), variable pressure SEM (VP-SEM), environmental SEM (ESEM), and the more recent ambiental SEM (ASEM), ending with the cutting edge Cryo-SEM and focused ion beam SEM (FIB SEM), highlighting the pros and cons of several methods with particular emphasis on conventional SEM and VP-SEM. As each technique has its own advantages and disadvantages, the choice of the most appropriate method must be done carefully, based on the specific aim of the study. The evaluation of the drug effects on biofilm requires imaging methods that show the most detailed ultrastructural features of the biofilm. In this kind of research, the use of scanning electron microscopy with customized protocols such as osmium tetroxide (OsO4), ruthenium red (RR), tannic acid (TA) staining, and ionic liquid (IL) treatment is unrivalled for its image quality, magnification, resolution, minimal sample loss, and actual sample structure preservation. The combined use of innovative SEM protocols and 3-D image analysis software will allow for quantitative data from SEM images to be extracted; in this way, data from images of samples that have undergone different antibiofilm treatments can be compared.
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor: A Translational View in Oral Non-Communicable Diseases
Authors: Niklander Sven , Bordagaray María José , Fernández Alejandra , Hernández Marcela
Published: January 2021

Vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) are vital regulators of angiogenesis that are expressed in response to soluble mediators, such as cytokines and growth factors. Their physiologic functions include blood vessel formation, regulation of vascular permeability, stem cell and monocyte/macrophage recruitment and maintenance of bone homeostasis and repair. In addition, angiogenesis plays a pivotal role in chronic pathologic conditions, such as tumorigenesis, inflammatory immune diseases and bone loss. According to their prevalence, morbidity and mortality, inflammatory diseases affecting periodontal tissues and oral cancer are relevant non-communicable diseases. Whereas oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is considered one of the most common cancers worldwide, destructive inflammatory periodontal diseases, on the other hand, are amongst the most prevalent chronic inflammatory conditions affecting humans and also represent the main cause of tooth loss in adults. In the recent years, while knowledge regarding the role of VEGF signaling in common oral diseases is expanding, new potential translational applications emerge. In the present narrative review we aim to explore the role of VEGF signaling in oral cancer and destructive periodontal inflammatory diseases, with emphasis in its translational applications as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
Application of Biotechnological Techniques Aimed to Obtain Bioactive Compounds from Food Industry By-Products
Authors: Curiel Jose Antonio
Published: January 2021

Currently, food losses represent a serious imbalance in the dimensions of availability and accessibility in the global food system in the short term [...]
Recent Advances in Photodynamic Therapy for Deep-Seated Tumors with the Aid of Nanomedicine
Authors: Li Wei-Peng , Yen Chia-Jui , Wu Bo-Sheng , Wong Tak-Wah
Published: January 2021

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) works through photoactivation of a specific photosensitizer (PS) in a tumor in the presence of oxygen. PDT is widely applied in oncology to treat various cancers as it has a minimally invasive procedure and high selectivity, does not interfere with other treatments, and can be repeated as needed. A large amount of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and singlet oxygen is generated in a cancer cell during PDT, which destroys the tumor effectively. However, the efficacy of PDT in treating a deep-seated tumor is limited due to three main reasons: Limited light penetration depth, low oxygen concentration in the hypoxic core, and poor PS accumulation inside a tumor. Thus, PDT treatments are only approved for superficial and thin tumors. With the advancement of nanotechnology, PDT to treat deep-seated or thick tumors is becoming a reachable goal. In this review, we provide an update on the strategies for improving PDT with nanomedicine using different sophisticated-design nanoparticles, including two-photon excitation, X-ray activation, targeting tumor cells with surface modification, alteration of tumor cell metabolism pathways, release of therapeutic gases, improvement of tumor hypoxia, and stimulation of host immunity. We focus on the difficult-to-treat pancreatic cancer as a model to demonstrate the influence of advanced nanomedicine in PDT. A bright future of PDT application in the treatment of deep-seated tumors is expected.