bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic Relationships and Principal Component Analysis in Elite Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Genotypes for Seed Yield and Its Component Traits
Authors: Janghel D. K. , Kumar Krishan , Verma S. S. , Chhabra A. K.
Published: November 2020

Background: Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is the important Rabi season food legume crop ranked third after common bean and field pea. The degree and extent of trait variability, genetic relationship and genetic diversity in promising chickpea genotypes should be known for possible yield improvement. Realizing the importance of genetic relationships and genetic diversity in key economic traits, the present investigation envisaged to measure the genetic relationships in the yield component traits to make effective selection for yield improvement in chickpea breeding programme.
Methods: The experimental material comprised of 60 chickpea genotypes (both Desi and Kabuli types), grown in RBD with three replications at Pulses Section of Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, CCSHAU, Hisar during Rabi 2014-15. The data on 11 quantitative traits was analysed for ANOVA, correlation coefficient, path coefficient, regression and principle component analysis.
Result: The present study has led the understanding of many inter-related traits involved in the genetic variation of chickpea seed yield. This would certainly provide guidelines for selection of parents as well as effective selection of promising chickpea genotypes, and also have paramount importance in formulating plant model for selection of segregating generations in chickpea breeding programmes for development of high yielding varieties.
Importance of plant virus research - a brief revisit
Authors: Komives Tamas , Kiraly Zoltan
Published: November 2020

In this paper, we wish to comment on a recent essay on virus research that was published in The Economist (August 20, 2020). The essay is so well-written and informative that it serves as an excellent example of popularizing science to make it accessible to all segments of an inquiring society. Still, we would like to point out that the paper failed to cover one important area of virus research: the fundamental discoveries achieved by studies of the viruses of higher plants.
The Influence of Relative Advantage Towards e-Procurement Adoption Model in Developing Countries: Tanzania Context
Authors: Shatta Deus N. , Shayo France A. , Mchopa Alban D. , Layaa John N.
Published: November 2020

The aim of this study was to fill the knowledge gap through assessing the influence of relative advantage towards e-procurement adoption in developing countries, Tanzania in particular. The study adopted positivism philosophy and cross-sectional survey research design. The study also used stratified sampling technique. Sample size was 157. Questionnaires and documentary review were used for data collection. The collected data were analysed by using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling with the help of SmartPLS 3 software. Findings reveal that in the presence of attitude, relative advantage has direct and indirect influences towards e-procurement adoption. Grounding on the theoretical and empirical gaps, the hypothesized relationships of the determinants of new technology (relative advantage and attitude) have therefore filled these gaps which leads to the theoretical, empirical and practical contributions.The study recommends attention to be paid for relative advantage towards e-procurement adoption in Tanzania and in all developing countries which intend to adopt new technologies in public sector.
Medical Studentsâ€™ Perception and preferences on Methods of Anatomy Teaching- A survey between public and private institutes of Karachi, Pakistan
Authors: Abbas Munib , Taseen Shafaq , Masood Raza Syeda Sadia , Waqar Wajiha , Khan Hina
Published: November 2020

Anatomy is an essential and basic subject in the field of human sciences. The reforms and new teaching methodologies has been revolutionizing the world and helping the student in better understanding the anatomical landmarks and specific details in an interactive way.
The present study evaluated the mode of anatomy teaching in public and private medical institutes of Karachi along with the opinion of students on the best teaching tool of anatomy. A total of 347 participants from private and public medical colleges of Karachi participated in the study. The data was collected by rotating questionnaires in the classrooms. Data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20. The mean age Â± SD of our sample was 19.10 Â± 0.77 years. In this study, majority of students from private sector institute were satisfied (58%) with the teaching methodology implemented for teaching Anatomy whereas, about (74%) participants from public sector institutes were not satisfied with the teaching methodology of teaching Anatomy. Students recommended that the use of Anatomy models may help in their better understanding of Anatomy.
The present study indicates that public and private medical institutes were still using old multimedia based teaching methods of anatomy and the students were not very satisfied with the mode of teaching in their institutes. Amendments and reforms shall be implemented and efficacious teaching techniques should be applied taking into consideration the opinion of the students to bring out the best understaning in the field of Anatomy.
Analyzing the Impact of Derivatives on the Emerging Markets Financial Stability
Authors: Scholer-Iordanashvili Lela
Published: November 2020

In recent decade, volatility of stocks and interest rates, together with the globalization of capital markets, increased the demand on financial instruments with the purpose of distribution of risks. The estimation of the role of financial derivatives instruments is very important for the stability of international financial system. The impact of derivatives upon International Financial Crises is an issue that is still dividing academics and practitioners. This paper focuses on analyzing the roles of derivatives in the financial crises. Within the framework of this research, three (3) emerging countries were studied for 1997-2010 quarterly. OLS regressive equation was used for empirical tests. The model includes the following variables: crisis index (dependent variable) and independent variables which include: the Ratio of the Current Account to GDP, the Ratio of the Domestic Credits on Private Sector to GDP, and the Ratio of the total notional amounts outstanding of the exchange traded derivatives to Foreign Exchange Reserves. Empirical analysis shows that the influence of derivatives over financial stability is not unilateral, and it depends on the characteristics of the financial system of the country. The study conducted on example of emerging markets, particularly Argentina, Russia and Brazil, revealed negative influence of derivatives on the financial system.
Investigating the Contributions of International Oil and Gas Firms to Local Development in Ghana: Dilemmas and Challenges
Authors: Nyukorong Remy
Published: November 2020

Ghana is relatively new to oil and gas extraction and there is little empirical knowledge about the key players in the oil and gas business, what they do to contribute to local socio-economic development, and the quandaries these firms struggle with while operating under difficult circumstances. The purpose of this study was to assess the contribution of international oil companies to local development in Ghana and to evaluate the challenges and dilemmas faced by these firms. The study adopted a qualitative, interpretive case study design that relied on face-to-face interviews and focus group discussions to gather primary data. Interview responses were analysed, compared, and categorised with the results of transcription of the focus group discussions, and later triangulated and interpreted to draw conclusions. The study revealed that most international oil companies in Ghana are transparent in reporting on their business activities and operations. Despite the efforts by these firms to support local development by funding developmental projects, paying taxes, and providing employment opportunities to local youth, international oil companies are still a target of criticism for unsatisfactory performance. Local populations would like to see extractive firms finance community infrastructural projects matching with local priority needs and focus more on impact rather than the quantity of money disbursed or the number of projects funded. International oil companies should change their engagement approach from a mere consultation to a realistic, democratic, and broad-based involvement of the publics. This study has enriched existing frameworks applied to evaluate business organisationsâ€™ contributions to local development.
Ansiedad por la Imagen Corporal en Universitarios de Ciencias de la Salud Comparaciones por Sexo
Authors: HernÃ¡ndez Guadalupe Simanga Ivett Robles , VÃ¡squez Susana Ivonne Aguirre , Daw MarÃ­a de JesÃºs MuÃ±oz , Bencomo Edgar Francisco OrdoÃ±ez , Ornelas JosÃ© RenÃ© Blanco , Angulo JesÃºs Omar Salido , Prieto Juan de Dios Alvarado , GarcÃ­a Perla Jannet Jurado
Published: November 2020

El objetivo de esta investigaciÃ³n consistiÃ³ comparar los perfiles de ansiedad por la imagen corporal de mujeres y hombres universitarios de ciencias de la salud. La muestra total fue de 443 universitarios; 201 mujeres y 242 hombres, con edades entre los 17 y 20 aÃ±os. El abordaje adoptado en la investigaciÃ³n se enmarcÃ³ dentro de un enfoque cuantitativo con un diseÃ±o descriptivo tipo encuesta. Los resultados del anÃ¡lisis multivariante de la varianza, seguido por los anÃ¡lisis de varianza univariados, muestran que en general las mujeres manifiestan una mayor ansiedad en relaciÃ³n a las partes de su cuerpo que tienen que ver con peso corporal (F = 20.87, p < .001) mientras que los hombres lo hacen por partes de su aspecto fÃ­sico que no guardan relaciÃ³n con su peso corporal (F = 17.74, p < .001). No obstante, es preciso desarrollar mÃ¡s investigaciÃ³n al respecto pues el tema trasciende del todo los alcances de la presente investigaciÃ³n.
This paper focuses on comparing the anxiety profiles of body image in women and men of health sciences university students. A total sample of 443 university students (201 women and 242 men) aged between 17 to 20 years was used in this study. The approach adopted in the research was framed within a quantitative approach with a descriptive survey-type design. The results of the multivariate analysis of variance, followed by the univariate analyzes of variance, show that in general women manifest greater anxiety in relation to the parts of their body that have to do with body weight (F = 20.87, p <. 001), while men do so for parts of their physical appearance that are not related to their body weight (F = 17.74, p <.001). It is, therefore, important to carry out more research in this regard since the subject completely transcends the scope of the present study.
Assessing Nozzle Geometry, Spacing and Height Effect on Pesticide Spray Characteristics and Swath from Ground and Aerial Sprayers
Authors: Appah Samuel , Ou Mingxiong , Jia Weidong , Amoah Asante Eric , Yang Wanting
Published: November 2020

Nozzle is the basic aperture that controls pesticide spray jet onto targeted substrates. It is moulded from stainless steel, brass, ceramic and plastics at different wear rates. The efficiency of pesticide application is dependent on chemical efficacy and nozzle type. Both flat fan and hollow cone nozzles are commonly used to enhance pesticide spray characteristics and deposition. The surface coverage and spray distribution are influenced by nozzle spacing and spraying height. Therefore, using a nozzle type, spacing and spraying height that give pesticide spray-overlap is of interest to researchers. This review therefore analyses the effect of nozzle geometry, nozzle spacing and spraying height regimes on pesticide spray droplets characteristics from mechanical boom sprayers. To improve on uniformity of pesticides spray coverage on plant surfaces, a unitary relative span is reported suitable for application, but there had not been clearly defined nozzle type, spacing and height regime for effective spraying. The review further proposes an optimum parameters combination with specific nozzle type, spacing and spraying height for efficient application of pesticides.
Distribution De Amanita Subviscosa Beeli, Une EspÃ¨ce Ectomycorhizienne Mal Connue Dans Le Parc National Du W Du Niger (Afrique De lâ€™Ouest)
Authors: Hama Oumarou , Ibrahim Doka Dahiratou , Barage Moussa , Infante FÃ©lix
Published: November 2020

La prÃ©sente Ã©tude, rÃ©alisÃ©e dans le Parc National du W, vise Ã  contribuer Ã  la connaissance de lâ€™Ã©cologie, de la frÃ©quence et de la pÃ©riode dâ€™apparition de Amanita subviscosa, une espÃ¨ce de champignon ectomycorhizienne, mal connue dudit parc. Pour ce faire, des investigations ont Ã©tÃ© menÃ©es dans trois types de formations vÃ©gÃ©tales, au cours de la pÃ©riode de juillet-septembre 2008-2016. Ainsi, lâ€™espÃ¨ce est infÃ©odÃ©e Ã  la savane arborÃ©e, Ã  la forÃªt claire et Ã  la galerie forestiÃ¨re, aux alentours des pieds de Afzelia africana et Isoberlinia doka. Dans le premier biotope, sa frÃ©quence dâ€™apparition est de 40%, alors que dans la forÃªt claire et la galerie forestiÃ¨re, sa frÃ©quence dâ€™apparition est respectivement 33,33% et 26,67%. Dans ces trois (3) biotopes, A. subviscosa est plus abondante Ã  partir du 20 juillet jusquâ€™en fin aoÃ»t, en pÃ©riodes des pluies rÃ©guliÃ¨res.
The present study, carried out in the W National Park, aims to contribute to the knowledge of the ecology, the frequency and the period of appearance of Amanita subviscosa, an ectomycorrhizal fungus species which it is little known from the above-mentioned park. To achieve this task, some investigations were carried out in three types of plant formations, during the period from July-September 2008-2012. This species is linked to the tree savannah, the open forest and the forest gallery, around Afzelia africana and Isoberlinia doka trees. In the first biotope, its frequency of occurrence is 40%, while in the open forest and gallery forest, their frequency of occurrence are 33.33% and 26.67% respectively. In these three biotopes, A. subviscosa is most abundant from the July the 20th until the end of August, during regular rain periods.
Impact De Lâ€™anthropisation Sur Les Variations SpatioTemporelles Et Du Peuplement Zooplanctonique: Exemple Des Retenues Dâ€™eau De Bongouanou (Afrique De Lâ€™ouest, CoteDâ€™ivoire)
Authors: Mamadou Fofana Nahon , Nâ€™doua Etile Raphael , Yao Konan Aristide , Silvain Yao Stanislas , Goore Bi Gouli
Published: November 2020

Cette Ã©tude vise Ã  dÃ©terminer lâ€™impact de lâ€™anthropisation sur les variations spatiotemporelles et du peuplement zooplanctonique des lacs Ehuikro et SocotÃ¨ situÃ©s au Centre-Est de la CÃ´te d'Ivoire dans la rÃ©gion du Moronou. Le zooplancton a Ã©tÃ© Ã©chantillonnÃ© mensuellement dâ€™avril 2017 Ã  Mars 2018 Ã  lâ€™aide dâ€™un filet Ã  plancton de 60 Âµm de vide de maille. Au total 37 taxons ont Ã©tÃ© observÃ©s (24 RotifÃ¨res, 6 CopÃ©podes, 3 CladocÃ¨res et 4 autres organismes). Les RotifÃ¨res constituent le groupe dominant et constituent 46 % de lâ€™abondance totale. En termes de densitÃ©, les RotifÃ¨res sont largement dominÃ©s par les Brachionidae (51 %). Globalement, la richesse taxonomique et lâ€™abondance les plus fortes ont Ã©tÃ© enregistrÃ©es pendant les saisons de pluies (54 %) contre 46 % en saisons sÃ¨ches. La station Ehui 2 a eu la plus grande richesse taxonomique (26 taxons en saisons sÃ¨ches et 25 taxons en saisons des pluies) et la station Soco 1 a donnÃ© 17 taxons en saisons sÃ¨ches et pluvieuses. Les variables qui influencent fortement la diversitÃ© taxonomique et lâ€™abondance sont: la conductivitÃ©, la tempÃ©rature, le potentiel dâ€™hydrogÃ¨ne, la teneur en solide dissout, la teneur en phosphore, la teneur en nitrate et la profondeur.
Objectives: This study aims to determine the impact of anthropization on Spatio-temporal variations and zooplankton population of lakes Ehuikro and SocotÃ¨ located in the center-east of CÃ´te d'Ivoire in the region of Moronou. Method and results: Zooplankton was sampled monthly from April 2017 to March 2018 using a 60 Âµm mesh void plankton net. A total of 37 taxa were observed (24 Rotifers, 6 Copepods, 3 Cladocerans and 4 other organisms). Rotifers are the dominant group with (46%) of the total abundance. In terms of density, Rotifers are largely dominated by Brachionidae (51%). Globally, the highest taxonomic richness and abundance were recorded during the rainy seasons at 54% against 46% in the dry seasons. Ehui 2 station had the greatest taxonomic richness (26 taxa in dry seasons and 25 taxa in rainy seasons) and Soco 1 station gave 17 taxa in dry and rainy seasons. The variables strongly influencing taxonomic diversity and abundance are: conductivity, temperature, hydrogen potential, rate of dissolved solids, rate of phosphorus, rate of nitrate and depth.
Assessment Of Factors Involved In The Visual Choice Of Dental Color - Clinical Trials
Authors: Radu Mihailescu
Published: November 2020

With the development of societies, the demands of patients in terms of dental aesthetics have increased. To keep up with the increasingly demanding requirements of patients, dentists have been researching the factors that influence positively or negatively the choice of dental color, in order to control them and to obtain the best aesthetic results.Purpose of the study:Whether there is a correlation between choice time and accuracy. Whether there are differences in time and accuracy in determining with the Vita Classical key compared to the Vita Linear Guide.Material and Methods:This study involved 30 students (10 males and 20 females) of the University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Iuliu HaÈ›ieganu" ClujNapoca from the second to sixth year of study, aged 19-26. Of these, 18 (5 males and 13 females) were included and participated in the study itself. The participants were asked to determine the dental color of 1.1; 1.2; 1.3 of a patient. Results:In all three teeth color, both with the Vita Classical key and with the Vita Linear Guide key, no statistically significant correlation was found between the tooth color matching time and the matching accuracy. Conclusions: 1. A3 color required a longer matching time than A2 and A3.5, however the differences were not statistically significant. 2M2 also required a longer determination time than 3M2, but the differences were not statistically significant. 2. No correlation was found between the time required to determine a color and the accuracy of its determination.
Evaluation de lâ€™effet de la poudre des feuilles de Moringa oleifera sur les parasites gastrointestinaux du lapin domestique (Oryctolagus cuniculus) au BÃ©nin
Authors: Boni Saka Konmy Basile , Abiodoun OlounladÃ© Pascal , Doko-Allou Sanni-yo , Bertrand Azando Erick Virgile
Published: November 2020

En Afrique subsaharienne et au BÃ©nin, peu de travaux ont Ã©tÃ© consacrÃ©s au traitement des maladies du lapin. Dans le but dâ€™amÃ©liorer le schÃ©ma thÃ©rapeutique des lapins dont lâ€™importance est considÃ©rable dans cette zone, une attention particuliÃ¨re est accordÃ©e Ã  Moringa oleifera pour ses vertus nutritionnelles et pharmacologiques. Une Ã©tude phytochimique et antiparasitaire a donc Ã©tÃ© entreprise Ã  cet effet. Le criblage phytochimique et lâ€™analyse quantitative ont rÃ©vÃ©lÃ© la prÃ©sence et la haute teneur de grands groupes de composÃ©s chimiques Ã  activitÃ© antiparasitaire comme les phÃ©nols totaux (384.09mgGAE/50g), flavonoÃ¯des (0,019mgRE/50g), tanins (9,60.10- 6mgCE/50g) saponosides, dÃ©rivÃ©s quinoniques. Trois rations alimentaires granulÃ©es Ã  base de feuilles de Moringa oleifera (0, 5, 10 et 15% dâ€™incorporation) ont Ã©tÃ© testÃ©es sur les parasites gastrointestinaux des lapins. Lâ€™Ã©tude parasitologique effectuÃ©e par coproscopie quantitative a permis de montrer que les rations alimentaires de 5%, 10% et 15% dâ€™incorporation ont Ã©tÃ© efficaces Ã  hauteur de 97,58 % et 97,57% sur les oocystes de coccidies ; 97,74 et 99,04 sur les Å“ufs dâ€™helminthes de lapins selon les mÃ©thodes de POWER et de COLES. Cette Ã©tude justifie donc lâ€™utilisation traditionnelle des feuilles de Moringa oleifera pour le traitement des parasitoses gastrointestinales des lapins.
In sub-Saharan Africa and Benin, little work has been devoted to the treatment of rabbit diseases. For improving the rabbitâ€™s treatment whose importance is considerable in this region, special attention is given to Moringa oleifera for its nutritional and pharmacological properties. Phytochemical and anthelmintic studies were therefore undertaken to this effect. Phytochemical screening and quantitative analysis revealed the presence and the high content of large groups of chemical compounds with anthelmintic activity such as total phenols (384.09mgGAE/50g), flavonoids (0.019mgRE/50g), tannins (9.60.10-6 mgCE/50g), saponins, and quinone derivatives. The formulation of three granulated rations containing incorporation 5, 10 and 15% of powdered leaves of Moringa oleifera has been tested on gastrointestinal nematodes of rabbits. The parasitological study by quantitative coproscopy has shown that the granulated food ration with incorporation of 15% leaf powder of Moringa oleifera is effective on gastrointestinal parasites up to 97.58 % and 97.57% on oocysts of coccidia, 97.74 and 99.04 on helminth eggs of rabbits calculated by the POWER and COLES methods. This study has justified the traditional use of Moringa oleifera leaves for the treatment of gastrointestinal parasite of rabbits.
The Emerging Importance of Rice as a Strategic Crop in Ethiopia
Authors: Alemu Dawit , Thompson John
Published: November 2020

Rice has become one of the most important agricultural commodities in Ethiopia in line with its increased importance throughout Africa. This paper examines the trends of the importance of rice in the country – covering domestic production, imports, the extent of self-sufficiency and associated efforts. Specifically, the paper presents the challenges and opportunities surrounding rice cultivation, processing and marketing, as well as for the future development of the rice sector in Ethiopia.
Body mass index and dental caries in native Peruvian communities
Authors: Aquino Canchari Christian Renzo , Crisol-Deza Diego Andre , Zurita-Borja Joselyn Linda
Published: November 2020

Oral disorders and eating disorders affect everyone, however,these will be more frequent in vulnerable populations suchas native communities. Aim: Determining the body massindex and the prevalence of dental caries and its clinicalconsequences in native Peruvian communities. Methods:Observational, correlational, cross-sectional study. The sampleconsisted of 169 adults from the native communities selectedfor convenience, meeting inclusion and exclusion criteria.Nutritional status was evaluated through the body mass index,to quantify the experience of dental caries, the DMTF index wasused, the severity was quantified by the significance index ofdental caries, and its clinical consequences when not beingtreated by the PUFA index. The evaluation was carried out innatural light by calibrated observers. The data were analyzedin the STATA v 14 program using frequency distribution tablesand figures, to determine the association, the Pearson’scorrelation coefficient was used. Results: The majority ofresidents had an adequate weight for their height 71 (41.01%),followed by low weight 64 (37.87%), overweight 29 (17.16%)and obesity 5 (2.96% ). The prevalence of dental caries was100% (DMTF = 13.23; SIC = 19.01), of which 68.04% had clinicalconsequences, no association was found between: BMI andDMTF (p = 0.557) BMI and PUFA-index (0.485). Conclusions:No association was found between the body mass index anddental caries and its clinical consequences.
Surface and mechanical properties of adhesives with calcium phosphates challenged to different storage media
Authors: Mederos Gómez Marcelo Matias , Garcia Isadora Martini , Leitune Vicente Castelo Branco , Collares Fabrício Mezzomo
Published: November 2020

Aim: To evaluate the behavior of experimental dental adhesiveswith hydroxyapatite (HAp), alpha-tricalcium phosphate (α-TCP)or octacalcium phosphate (OCP) after storing them in threedifferent media: dry storage, distilled water, or lactic acid.Methods: An experimental adhesive resin was formulated withbisphenol A glycol dimethacrylate, 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate,and photoiniciator/co-initiator system. HAp (GHAp), α-TCP(Gα-TCP), or OCP (GOCP) were added to the adhesive resin at 2wt.%, and one group remained without calcium phosphates tobe used as a control (GCtrl). The adhesives were evaluated forsurface roughness, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), andultimate tensile strength (UTS) after storing in distilled water(pH=5.8), lactic acid (pH=4) or dry medium. Results: The initialsurface roughness was not different among groups (p>0.05).GHAp showed increased values after immersion in water(p<0.05) or lactic acid (p<0.05). SEM analysis showed a surfacevariation of the filled adhesives, mainly for Gα-TCP and GHAp. GHApshowed the highest UTS in dry medium (p<0.05), and its valuedecreased after lactic acid storage (p<0.05). Conclusions:The findings of this study showed that HAp, OCP, and α-TCPaffected the physical behavior of the experimental adhesiveresins in different ways. HAp was the calcium phosphatethat most adversely affected the surface roughness and themechanical property of the material, mainly when exposed toan acid medium.
Cytotoxicity and degree of conversion of methacrylate and silorane
Authors: Silva Virgínia Angélica , Gontijo Sávio Morato de Lacerda , Gatti Alexandre , Poletto Luiz Thadeu de Abreu , Alvim Hugo Henriques
Published: November 2020

Composites have been proven to have a cytotoxiceffect on a variety of tissues and cells. Aim: The aim of thisstudy was to analyse the degree of conversion of resinsand its correlation with the cell viability in primary gingivalfibroblasts. Methods: Resin-based silorane (Filtek P90)and conventional methacrylate resins (Filtek Z100, FiltekZ250 and Filtek Z350XT) were used to evaluate cell viabilityand the degree of conversion. The resins were light-cured bya LED for 20 and 40 seconds. The degree of conversion wasanalysed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Cellularmetabolism was evaluated after 24 hours by the MTT assay(n = 6) using the storage solution of composite resin foreither 24 hours or 12 days. Variance analysis (ANOVA) witha Bonferroni correction (p < 0.05) was performed to comparethe groups. Results: The composite Filtek P90 showed ahigher degree of conversion when polymerised for 40 or20 seconds, while the composites Filtek Z100, Filtek Z250 andFiltek Z350XT showed similar degree of conversion. Only theFiltek Z100 resin was cytotoxic. Conclusion: We found nostatistically significant correlation between cell viability andthe degree of conversion.
Nonlinear Dynamics of MEMS Resonator in PLL-AGC Self-Oscillation Loop
Authors: Lukin Aleksei , Indeitsev Dmitry , Popov Ivan , Belyaev Yakov
Published: November 2020

The work is devoted to the study of a MEMS resonator dynamics under the action of phase-locked and automatic gain control loops. Particular attention is directed to the study of the nonlinearity factor of the resonator elastic restoring force. It was found that the determination of control system parameters based on the stability analysis of the operating resonant mode, in the general case, does not provide the required phase adjustment and stabilization of the oscillation amplitude. Stable multifrequency modes of oscillations are found, an analytical study of the mechanisms of their appearance and evolution is carried out under variation of the key parameters of the system. The real regions of the control system stable operation are determined (which do not coincide, as was found, with the regions of stability of the operating resonant mode, due to the presence of hidden attractors in the phase space of the system). A methodology has been developed for identifying such areas of stable operation. A significant complication of the structure of possible motions in the system with an increase in the Q-factor of the resonator is revealed.
An Ultra-high-Q lithium Niobate Microresonator Integrated with a Silicon Nitride Waveguide in the Vertical Configuration for Evanescent Light Coupling
Authors: Zhang Jianhao , Wu Rongbo , Wang Min , Liang Youting , Zhou Junxia , Wu Miao , Fang Zhiwei , Chu Wei , Cheng Ya
Published: November 2020

We demonstrate hybrid integration of a lithium niobate microring resonator with a silicon nitride waveguide in the vertical configuration to achieve efficient light coupling. The microring resonator is fabricated on a lithium niobate on insulator (LNOI) substrate using photolithography assisted chemo-mechanical etching (PLACE). A fused silica cladding layer is deposited on the LNOI ring resonator. The silicon nitride waveguide is further produced on the fused silica cladding layer by first fabricating a trench in the fused silica using focused ion beam (FIB) etching for facilitating the evanescent coupling, followed by formation of the silicon nitride waveguide on the bottom of the trench. The FIB etching ensures the required high positioning accuracy between the waveguide and the ring resonator. We achieve Q-factors as high as 1.4*10^7 with the vertically integrated device.
Significance of Neutrino Environments on Neutrino-Induced Fission and Neutron-Induced Fission Processes
Authors: Ali Muhammad
Published: November 2020

This paper presents Mathematical Formulation for Neutrino-Fission of a heavy nuclei in Neutrino-environments. It has been proposed that neutrino fission is a dynamic two-process reaction, where more than one neutrino can be captured by target nucleus. A quantity named Neutrino-Zeta with units of eV-1 has been defined to represent Neutrino-environments. Neutrino-zeta with assumed excited energy states for heavy nuclei A∼230-270 is estimated to be 0.0212 MeV-1, with the probability of fission Barrier energy state P(Ex,f)= 0.169064014 with Ex,f =6MeV. P(Ex,f)=0.222664 is highest at zeta=0.1MeV-1 . It has been shown that probabilities of certain excitation energy states and their corresponding decay reactions at those excitation energies can be equal for two neutrino-zetas. Neutron induced fission for different neutrinos hypothesize that probability of symmetric fission channels is higher at low neutrino-zetas, which can be tested experimentally.
The Impact of Recyclable Waste Trade Restrictions on Producer Recycling Activities
Authors: Kojima Michikazu ,   Institute of Developing Economies, Japan External Trade Organization (IDE-JETRO) 3-2-2 Wakaba, Mihama-ku, Chiba-shi, Chiba 261-8545, Japan
Published: November 2020

From the mid-1990s to 2017, China was a major importer of recyclable waste, including plastic waste, e-waste, wastepaper, and copper scrap. However, after experiencing pollution from the recycling process and improper disposal of imported waste, at the end of 2017, China prohibited the import of certain types of waste, including household plastic waste and waste fiber. Consequently, some types of recyclable waste were rerouted to Southeast Asia. However, after receiving contaminated recyclable waste imports, Southeast Asian countries also tightened import restrictions on recyclable waste. These restrictions hindered the international recycling initiatives of certain manufacturers, which were model cases of the voluntary application of extended producer responsibility. When producers initiate recycling programs, they must compete with other recyclers to secure waste supplies and compete with other producers of the same kind. To compete in the waste and product markets, they must minimize recycling cost. To do so, some producers established international recycling systems; however, trade restrictions in some countries are forcing them to stop these programs. This paper reviews the impact of recyclable waste trade restrictions on recycling activities and producer-organized international recycling systems and argues that there is a need for an appropriate trade policy to facilitate environmentally sound recycling.
Data Assimilation Mechanism for Lifecycle Simulation Focusing on Process Behaviors
Authors: Fujimoto Kazuho ,   Department of Mechanical Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan, Fukushige Shinichi , Kobayashi Hideki
Published: November 2020

Systematic lifecycle design and management are promising approaches for constructing sustainable product lifecycle systems. Lifecycle simulation (LCS) has been used to evaluate a product lifecycle in the design phase from both the environmental and economic perspectives. Based on material flows through each process of the product lifecycle, the LCS calculates the time variation in environmental loads, cost, and profit. In each process of the LCS model, functions that regulate the behaviors of the process, called behavior functions, are set, and these functions control material flows. Previously, we proposed a data-assimilated LCS method that combines data assimilation (DA) with LCS to realize adaptive management based on actual states of the product lifecycle. In this previous development, the DA mechanism modified the material flows of an entire lifecycle in the simulation model based on actual flows observed in each process at the time of the DA. However, because process behaviors were not modified, the gap between material flows predicted by the simulation and the flows of the actual lifecycle increased over time. To overcome this limitation, in this study, we propose a new DA mechanism that modifies the behaviors of un-observed processes based on observed material flows. The proposed DA mechanism uses the response surface methodology to estimate the behaviors while tracing the causal relation in the LCS model in reverse. A case study on a photovoltaic panel reuse business showed that the DA mechanism successfully merged the observed data into the process behaviors in the LCS model including the processes where no data were observed, thereby improving the accuracy of the simulation for future prediction. Systematically analyzing the current and future process states of the product lifecycle can support decision-making in lifecycle management.
Decision Support Method for Upgrade Cycle Planning and Product Architecture Design of an Upgradable Product
Authors: Yamada Shuho , Miyajima Shogo , Yamada Tetsuo , Bracke Stefan , Inoue Masato ,   Department of Mechanical Engineering Informatics, Meiji University  1-1-1 Higashi-Mita, Tama-ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa 214-8571, Japan,   Department of Informatics, The University of Electro-Communications, Chofu, Japan,   University of Wuppertal, Wuppertal, Germany
Published: November 2020

An upgradable product is a product in which the valuable life is extended by exchanging or adding components. An upgradable product is both environmentally and economically advantageous compared with products requiring replacement because its functions can be improved by adding only a few components. Therefore, the design and sale of upgradable products represent effective methods for attaining a sustainable society. Previous studies of upgradable product design methods have assumed that products have a modular architecture, in which all components are functionally independent. However, actual products have both integral architectures and modular architectures. Achieving high-performance products through component optimization is easier with an integral architecture than with a modular architecture. However, the integral architecture makes it difficult to disassemble and replace individual components. It is difficult to achieve high levels of performance in products with modular architecture, but it is easy to disassemble and replace components. Therefore, upgradable product design must determine the most appropriate product architecture. Hence, this paper focuses on the product architecture of upgradable products and proposes a decision support method that yields the appropriate combination of product architecture and upgrade cycle. In addition, the authors propose evaluation models for the environmental load, cost, and customer dissatisfaction, as well as a comprehensive evaluation index based on these models. The overall model, which gives the evaluation index, considers the differences in the evaluated values resulting from differences in the product architecture and the number of upgrades. The proposed method was applied to a motherboard module design problem for a laptop computer. The results of this case study confirm that the proposed method successfully supports the designer during upgradable product design by deriving the most suitable combination from a set of product architectures and upgrade cycle candidates.
Durability Evaluation of an Additive Manufactured Biodegradable Composite with Continuous Natural Fiber in Various Conditions Reproducing Usage Environment
Authors: Yaguchi Yuta , Takeuchi Kenji , Waragai Tadashi , Tateno Toshitake ,   Department of Systems Innovation, The University of Tokyo 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8654, Japan,   Graduate School of Science and Technology, Meiji University, Kawasaki, Japan,   Department of Mechanical Engineering Informatics, Meiji University, Kawasaki, Japan
Published: November 2020

Recently, biodegradable plastic materials that can be decomposed by living organisms have attracted significant attention because of the great demand for the safe disposal of plastics. Recycling has failed to provide a practical solution for plastic waste disposal (60% of all plastics produced are discarded). It is difficult to achieve both durability and biodegradability in biodegradable plastics. In additive manufacturing processes, polylactic acid (PLA), one of the biodegradable plastics, is typically used, but it presents strength and durability problems. We developed novel additive manufactured biodegradable composite plastics by inserting continuous natural fibers (cotton, hemp, jute, etc.) into fabricated layers of PLA. The composite had a greater strength than normal additive manufactured PLA materials and could be used like a normal PLA filament in fused deposition modeling to create free-form three-dimensional objects. In this study, we performed experiments to evaluate the durability and biodegradability of the composite (PLA as matrix and hemp fibers as reinforcement). Specimens made from the composite were exposed to a normal indoor environment and to severe environments that products might encounter during use (presence of water and UV light (300–400 nm)). The decrease in strength over time was compared with that of PLA, and the durability was evaluated. The results indicated that the strength of the manufactured composite material exceeded that of PLA under all conditions. Whereas the stiffness of PLA exposed to UV light reduced significantly, that of the composite material remained constant, suggesting the significant effect of fiber reinforcement. In addition, test specimens were buried in a simulated soil environment, and their biodegradability was evaluated. The strength of the composite material decreased rapidly, and the biodegradability was confirmed to be at an acceptable level.
Evaluation of Environmental Impact of Car Sharing in Consideration of Uncertainty of Influential Variables
Authors: Tsuji Katsuya ,   Department of Urban Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan, Kurisu Kiyo , Nakatani Jun , Moriguchi Yuichi
Published: November 2020

Sustainable production and consumption are categorized as target 12 in the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. The “sharing economy” has been developing globally as a new consumption style, and it is often recognized as being environmentally friendly by both consumers and service providers. Several aspects of the practice, such as the avoidance of new production, can reduce the impact to the environment. However, additional factors, such as the expansion of consumption, namely rebound effects, can increase the impact to the environment. Although many variables exist to determine the total impact of sharing services on the environment, additional and rebound effects and the uncertainty of influential variables have not been well considered. In this study, we aim to reveal the conditions that car-sharing practices place in increasing or decreasing environmental loads, and to identify the significant influential factors on the environment imposed by car-sharing services. We analyze the CO2 emission of car sharing by considering various influential factors and their distributions. Furthermore, we consider differences in car size, fuel type, ownership condition, and several other factors in the simulation. The distribution of each variable is determined, and a Monte Carlo simulation is conducted. The CO2 emissions from the production and operational stages over a 10-y period are estimated. The simulation is conducted with sensitivity analysis to identify the variables that contribute significantly to the total CO2 emission. In some cases, the CO2 emission involved in car sharing exceeded cases in which car sharing is not practiced. Among those cases, although the main contributor to the total CO2 emission is in the operational stage, CO2 emission from the production stage increased the amount of emission. It is discovered that the number of cars increased significantly during the target 10 y after sharing is introduced in some cases. These results indicate a high probability that car sharing can achieve CO2 reduction, but the increase in CO2 emission can occur under certain conditions. Additionally, the sensitivity analysis shows that the main determinants of CO2 emission are the ratio of people who eliminated their private cars, degree of rebound effect, and increasing ratio of number of cars introduced to car-sharing practices. This suggests that whether car sharing becomes environmentally friendly depends substantially on consumer behavior and the manner in which sharing services are operated.
Automated Tool Path Generation for Roughing Using Flat Drill
Authors: Nishida Isamu ,   Kobe University 1-1 Rokko-dai, Nada-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 657-8501, Japan, Nakatsuji Hidenori , Shirase Keiichi
Published: November 2020

A method to calculate tool path uniquely for roughing using a flat drill is proposed. A flat drill is a drill with a flat tip. Unlike a square end mill, it cannot feed a tool laterally, but it is suitable for machining to feed a tool longitudinally. The advantage offered by the flat drill is expected to reduce machining troubles, such as tool breakages and chatter vibration, owing to the axial sturdiness of the tool. Furthermore, it can be used to machine lapped holes that cannot be machined with a normal drill owing to its flat tip. Hence, roughing using a flat drill by drilling multiple holes at constant intervals is proposed herein. Furthermore, in this method, a tool path for semi-finishing is generated only on the remaining region. A cutting experiment is conducted to validate the effectiveness of the proposed method. The result of the cutting experiment confirmed the effectiveness of the proposed method based on the machining time and the productivity of machining multiple products simultaneously.
Induced pluripotent stem cells derived brain endothelial cells from patients suffering from familial form of Alzheimer’s disease display impaired barrier function and cell metabolism
Authors: Raut Snehal , Patel Ronak , Al-Ahmad Abraham
Published: November 2020

Background: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common form of neurodegenerative disease. It is an irreversible condition marked by irreversible cognitive loss, commonly attributed to the loss of hippocampal neurons due to the formation of senile plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. Although the sporadic form is the most prevalent, the presence of familial form (involving several genes such as APP, PSEN1 and PSEN2) of the disease is commonly used as a model for understanding the pathophysiology of the disease. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of mutation on PSEN1 and PSEN2 genes on the BBB function using induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs).Methods: iPSC lines from patients suffering from familial form of Alzheimer’s disease and harboring mutations in PSEN1 or PSEN2 were used in this study and compared to a control iPSC line. Cells were differentiated into brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs) following established differentiation protocols. Barrier function was assessed by measuring TEER and fluorescein permeability, drug transporters activity was assessed by uptake assay, glucose uptake and metabolism assessed by cell flux analyzer, mitochondrial potential by JC-1 and lysosomal acidification by acridine orange. Results: iPSC derived BMECs from the FAD patient presenting a mutation in PSEN1 gene showed impaired barrier function compared to the FAD patient harboring a mutation in PSEN2 and to control group. Such impaired barrier function correlated with poor tight junction complexes and reduced drug efflux pump activity. In addition, both PSEN1 and PSEN2-BMECs displayed reduced bioenergetics, lysosomal acidification, autophagy, while showing an increase in radical oxygen species (ROS) production. Finally, PSEN1- and PSEN2-BMECs showed an elevated secretion of Ab1-40 peptides compared to control-BMECs.Conclusion: Our study reports that iPSC-derived BMECs obtained from FAD patients showed impaired barrier properties and BMECs metabolism. In particular, PSEN1 mutation was associated with a more detrimental phenotype than the PSEN2 mutation, as noted by a reduced barrier function, reduced drug efflux pump activity and diminished glucose metabolism. Therefore, assessing the contribution of genetic mutations associated with Alzheimer’s disease will allow us to better understand the contribution of the BBB in dementia, but also other neurodegenerative diseases.