bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Opportunities to Apply Precision Livestock Management on Rangelands
Authors: Bailey Derek W. , Trotter Mark G. , Tobin Colin , Thomas Milt G.
Published: April 2021

Precision livestock management has become a new field of study as the result of recent advancements in real-time global positioning system (GPS) tracking, accelerometer and other sensor technologies. Real-time tracking and accelerometer monitoring has the potential to remotely detect livestock disease, animal well-being and grazing distribution issues and notify ranchers and graziers so that they can respond as soon as possible. On-going research has shown that accelerometers can remotely monitor livestock behavior and detect activity changes that are associated with disease and parturition. GPS tracking can also detect parturition by monitoring the distance between a ewe and the remainder of the flock. Tracking also has the potential to detect water system failures. Combinations of GPS tracking and accelerometer monitoring may be more accurate than either device used by itself. Real-time GPS tracking can identify when livestock congregate in environmental sensitive areas which may allow managers the chance to respond before resource degradation occurs. Identification of genetic markers associated with terrain use, decreased cost of GPS tracking and novel tracking data processing should facilitate development of tools needed for genetic selection for cattle grazing distribution. Precision livestock management has potential to improve welfare of livestock grazing rangelands and forested lands, reduce labor costs and improve ranch profitability and improve the condition and sustainability of riparian areas and other environmental sensitive areas on grazing lands around the world.
Dietary Enteromorpha Polysaccharides Supplementation Improves Breast Muscle Yield and Is Associated With Modification of mRNA Transcriptome in Broiler Chickens
Authors: Zhao Yue , Balasubramanian Balamuralikrishnan , Guo Yan , Qiu Sheng-Jian , Jha Rajesh , Liu Wen-Chao
Published: April 2021

The present study evaluated the effects of dietary supplementation of Enteromorpha polysaccharides (EP) on carcass traits of broilers and potential molecular mechanisms associated with it. This study used RNA-Sequencing (RNA-Seq) to detect modification in mRNA transcriptome and the cognate biological pathways affecting the carcass traits. A total of 396 one-day-old male broilers (Arbor Acres) were randomly assigned to one of six dietary treatments containing EP at 0 (CON), 1000 (EP_1000), 2500 (EP_2500), 4000 (EP_4000), 5500 (EP_5500), and 7000 (EP_7000) mg/kg levels for a 35-d feeding trial with 6 replicates/treatment. At the end of the feeding trial, six birds (one bird from each replicate cage) were randomly selected from each treatment and slaughtered for carcass traits analysis. The results showed that the dietary supplementation of EP_7000 improved the breast muscle yield (p < 0.05). Subsequently, six breast muscle samples from CON and EP_7000 groups (three samples from each group) were randomly selected for RNA-Seq analysis. Based on the RNA-Seq results, a total of 154 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified (p < 0.05). Among the DEGs, 112 genes were significantly upregulated, whereas 42 genes were significantly down-regulated by EP_7000 supplementation. Gene Ontology enrichment analysis showed that the DEGs were mainly enriched in immune-related signaling pathways, macromolecule biosynthetic, DNA-templated, RNA biosynthetic, and metabolic process (p < 0.05). Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis showed that the DEGs were enriched in signaling pathways related to viral infectious diseases and cell adhesion molecules (p < 0.05). In conclusion, dietary inclusion of EP_7000 improves the breast muscle yield, which may be involved in improving the immunity and the cell differentiation of broilers, thus promoting the muscle growth of broilers. These findings could help understand the molecular mechanisms that enhance breast muscle yield by dietary supplementation of EP in broilers.
Somatic Mutation of NLRP Genes in Gastric and Colonic Cancers
Authors: Moon Seong Won , Son Hyun Ji , Mo Ha Yoon , Yoo Nam Jin , Lee Sug Hyung
Published: April 2021

Nucleotide-binding and leucine-rich repeat protein (NLRP) genes are involved in inflammasome formation that plays a role in inflammation/host defense and cell death. Both cell death and inflammation are crucial for cancer development, but the roles of NLRPs in cancer are partially known. In this study, we analyzed mononucleotide repeats in coding sequences of NLRP1, NLRP2, NLRP4 and NLRP9, and found 1, 1, 1 and 8 frameshift mutation (s) in gastric (GC) and colonic cancers (CRC), respectively. Five of the 32 high microsatellite instability (MSI-H) GCs (15.5%) and 6 of 113 MSI-H CRCs (5.5%) exhibited the frameshift mutations. There was no NLRP frameshift mutations in microsatellite stable (MSS) GCs and CRCs. We also discovered that 2 of 16 CRCs (12.5%) harbored intratumoral heterogeneity (ITH) of the NLRP9 frameshift mutations in one or more areas. In both GC and CRC with MSI-H, NLRP9 expression in NLRP9-mutated cases was significantly lower than that in NLRP9-non-mutated cases. Our data indicate that NLRP9 is altered at multiple levels (frameshift mutation, mutational ITH and loss of expression), which together could contribute to pathogenesis of MSI-H GC and CRC.
Trajectory Optimization Algorithm for a 4-DOF Redundant Parallel Robot Based on 12-Phase Sine Jerk Motion Profile
Authors: Hu Shengqiao , Kang Huimin , Tang Hao , Cui Zhengjie , Liu Zhicheng , Ouyang Puren
Published: April 2021

To improve high motion accuracy and efficiency in the high-speed operation of a 4-DOF (4 degrees of freedom) redundant parallel robot, this paper introduces a trajectory planning of the parallel robot in joint space based on the twelve-phase sine jerk motion profile. The 12-phase sine jerk motion profile utilizes the characteristics of a sine function. Furthermore, the penalty function is used to optimize the trajectory energy consumption under the constraint condition. The simulation and experimental results show that the energy consumption of joint space is slightly higher than that of the three-phase sine jerk motion profile, but the overall operation is more accurate and stable. Specifically, the sudden change of force and velocity in each joint is eliminated, which is the cause of mechanism oscillation. Moreover, the force of each joint is more average. The results indicate that each movement is closer to the maximum allowable limit and the running efficiency is higher.
Design and Analysis of Dual Mover Multi-Tooth Permanent Magnet Flux Switching Machine for Ropeless Elevator Applications
Authors: Zahid Atif , Khan Faisal , Ahmad Naseer , Sami Irfan , Ullah Wasiq , Ullah Nasim , Ullah Noman , Alkhammash Hend I.
Published: April 2021

A dual mover yokeless multi-tooth (DMYMT) permanent magnet flux switching motor (PM-FSM) design is presented in this article for ropeless elevator applications. The excitation sources, including a field winding and permanent magnet, are on the short mover in the proposed design structure, whereas the stator is a simple slotted iron core, thus reducing the vertical transportation system cost. The operational principle of the proposed DMYMT in PM-FSM is introduced. The proposed dual mover yokeless multi-tooth Permanent Magnet Flux Switching Motor is analyzed and compared for various performance parameters in a Finite Element Analysis package. The proposed machine has high thrust force and cost-effectiveness compared to conventional dual permanent magnet motor. Finally, this paper also develops an analytical model for the proposed structure, validated by comparing it with Finite Element Analysis simulation results. Results show good agreement between analytical prediction and Finite Element Analysis results.
Marketing of Vegetable Seeds: Practice and Behavioral Inclinations of Vegetable Seed Sellers and Farmers in Selected Areas of Bangladesh
Authors: Mustafiz Shahriar , Nakayasu Akira , Itabashi Mamoru
Published: April 2021

This research was based on a survey conducted in Bangladesh in three major seed-producing divisions, viz., Dhaka, Mymensingh, and Chittagong. Descriptive data was gathered by randomly selecting 100 peasants and 100 rural retailers for in-depth interviews. The general accounting approach was also used to assess profit and loss. The objective of the study was to analyze the marketing tendencies of vegetable seed farmers and sellers. The results showed a lack of market information, poor institutions and arrangements, poor marketing infrastructures, transportation system, and high and unfair profit margin distribution among the value chain actors with little share to the farmers in the vegetable seed market. These findings are indicators of poor marketing efficiency and thereby suboptimal operation of the seed marketing system. The significant determinants of market supply of vegetable seeds were found to be the average current price, age, the total size of land, farmers’ experience, sex, number of oxen, and access to market information. The determinants of demand for vegetable seeds—family size, purchase frequency, the average current price, income level, average expenditure on food and purchasing, profit or loss of vegetable seed farming—were found to be significant in the study. According to the findings of this report, vegetable seed sector in Bangladesh needs more government support, especially in terms of marketing policies in order to improve the current state of vegetable seed farming. Vegetable seed farming was not profitable due to a lack of technology and knowledge, as well as a lack of funding. With the existing status of infrastructure, the presence of middlemen is unavoidable. As a result, farmers have no alternative but to follow the orders of the middlemen, resulting in seed quality problems. Hence, the results are indicative of the measures that should be taken for production, market infrastructure, arrangements, and institutions to improve the functioning of the seed marketing system. It also proposes a vegetable seed distribution channel through which a cooperative community would serve as a collecting hub for a more efficient marketing scheme.
The Soil Organic Matter in Connection with Soil Properties and Soil Inputs
Authors: Voltr Václav , Menšík Ladislav , Hlisnikovský Lukáš , Hruška Martin , Pokorný Eduard , Pospíšilová Lubica
Published: April 2021

The content of organic matter in the soil, its labile (hot water extractable carbon–HWEC) and stable (soil organic carbon–SOC) form is a fundamental factor affecting soil productivity and health. The current research in soil organic matter (SOM) is focused on individual fragmented approaches and comprehensive evaluation of HWEC and SOC changes. The present state of the soil together with soil’s management practices are usually monitoring today but there has not been any common model for both that has been published. Our approach should help to assess the changes in HWEC and SOC content depending on the physico-chemical properties and soil´s management practices (e.g., digestate application, livestock and mineral fertilisers, post-harvest residues, etc.). The one- and multidimensional linear regressions were used. Data were obtained from the various soil´s climatic conditions (68 localities) of the Czech Republic. The Czech farms in operating conditions were observed during the period 2008–2018. The obtained results of ll monitored experimental sites showed increasing in the SOC content, while the HWEC content has decreased. Furthermore, a decline in pH and soil´s saturation was documented by regression modelling. Mainly digestate application was responsible for this negative consequence across all soils in studied climatic regions. The multivariate linear regression models (MLR) also showed that HWEC content is significantly affected by natural soil fertility (soil type), phosphorus content (−30%), digestate application (+29%), saturation of the soil sorption complex (SEBCT, 21%) and the dose of total nitrogen (N) applied into the soil (−20%). Here we report that the labile forms (HWEC) are affected by the application of digestate (15%), the soil saturation (37%), the application of mineral potassium (−7%), soil pH (−14%) and the overall condition of the soil (−27%). The stable components (SOM) are affected by the content of HWEC (17%), soil texture 0.01–0.001mm (10%), and input of organic matter and nutrients from animal production (10%). Results also showed that the mineral fertilization has a negative effect (−14%), together with the soil depth (−11%), and the soil texture 0.25–2 mm (−21%) on SOM. Using modern statistical procedures (MRLs) it was confirmed that SOM plays an important role in maintaining resp. improving soil physical, biochemical and biological properties, which is particularly important to ensure the productivity of agroecosystems (soil quality and health) and to future food security.
Green Infrastructures and Grand Environmental Challenges: A Review of Research Trends by Keyword
Authors: Caparrós-Martínez José Luis , Milán-García Juan , Martínez-Vázquez Rosa María , de Pablo Valenciano Jaime
Published: April 2021

This article aims to analyze research trends on the role played by green infrastructures as a tool seeking to address current environmental challenges, such as climate change, that put human well-being at risk. For this purpose, a bibliometric analysis was used on documents obtained from the WoS database, and selecting the combination of words “green infrastructures”, “ecosystem services”, and “climate change”. The results of this study point to the potential for Green Infrastructures to become a major strategic factor in addressing the global environmental and social challenges facing cities. The findings obtained are relevant to researchers, professionals, and others working on green infrastructure research as tools to address current global environmental problems, such as climate change, urban pollution, loss of biodiversity, or the risk of emergence of new epidemics or diseases.
New Fertilizer Strategies Combining Manure and Urea for Improved Rice Growth in Mozambique
Authors: Ismael Fátima , Ndayiragije Alexis , Fangueiro David
Published: April 2021

The cost of chemical fertilizers is increasing and becoming unaffordable for smallholders in Africa. The present study aimed to assess the impact of combined fertilization strategies using urea and animal manure (beef cattle manure and poultry litter manure) on rice yield and nutrient uptake. For this, a field experiment was carried out on a loam sandy soil in the Chókwè Irrigation Scheme. We set seven treatments in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD), namely: T0: no fertilizer, T1: 100% urea, T2: 100% beef cattle manure, T3: 100% poultry litter, T4: 50% urea + 50% beef cattle manure, T5: 50% urea + 50% poultry litter and T6: 40% urea + 30% beef cattle manure + 30% poultry litter, replicated four times each. All treatments, except T0, received an amount of nitrogen (N) equivalent to 100 kgN·ha−1. Results revealed that the highest yield grain (425 g·m−2), plant height (115 cm), number of tillers (18) and thousand-grain weight (34g) were observed in treatments combining urea with manure (T4, T5 and T6) indicating that N supply in the mixture (urea + manure) is more efficient than in isolated applications of N (T1, T2 and T3). The data obtained in this study suggest that a combination of fertilizers (T6) lead to competitive yields and is thus recommended for best soil management practices.
Antibiotic Resistance of Uropathogens Isolated from Patients Hospitalized in District Hospital in Central Poland in 2020
Authors: Kot Barbara , Grużewska Agata , Szweda Piotr , Wicha Jolanta , Parulska Urszula
Published: April 2021

The aim of this study was to determine antibiotic resistance patterns and the prevalence of uropathogenes causing urinary tract infections (UTIs) in patients hospitalized in January–June 2020 in central Poland. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed using the disk-diffusion method. Escherichia coli (52.2%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (13.7%), Enterococcus faecalis (9.3%), E. faecium (6.2%), and Proteus mirabilis (4,3%) were most commonly isolated from urine samples. E. coli was significantly more frequent in women (58.6%) (p = 0.0089) and in the age group 0–18, while K. pneumoniae was more frequent in men (24.4%) (p = 0.0119) and in individuals aged 40–60 and >60. Gram-negative species showed resistance to ampicillin. K. pneumoniae were resistant to amoxicillin plus clavulanic acid (75.0%), piperacillin plus tazobactam (76.2%), cefotaxime (76.2%), cefuroxime (81.0%), ciprofloxacin (81.0%), and trimethoprim plus sulphamethoxazole (81.0%). Carbapenems were effective against all E. coli and P. mirabilis. Some K. pneumoniae (13.6%) produced metallo-β-lactamases (MBLs). E. coli (22.6%), K. pneumoniae (81.8%), and all E. faecium were multidrug-resistant (MDR). Some E. coli (26.2%), K. pneumoniae (63.6%), and P. mirabilis (14.3%) isolates produced extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBL). Vancomycin-resistant E. faecium was also found. This study showed that the possibilities of UTIs therapy using available antibiotics become limited due to the increasing number of antibiotic-resistant uropathogens.
Meropenem Stability in Human Plasma at −20 °C: Detailed Assessment of Degradation
Authors: Gijsen Matthias , Filtjens Benjamin , Annaert Pieter , Armoudjian Yeghig , Debaveye Yves , Wauters Joost , Slaets Peter , Spriet Isabel
Published: April 2021

There are concerns about the stability of meropenem in plasma samples, even when frozen at −20 °C. Previous smaller studies suggested significant degradation of meropenem at −20 °C after 3–20 days. However, in several recent clinical studies, meropenem plasma samples were still stored at −20 °C, or the storage temperature and/or time were not mentioned in the paper. The aim of this study was to describe and model meropenem degradation in human plasma at −20 °C over 1 year. Stability of meropenem in human plasma at −20 °C was investigated at seven concentrations (0.44, 4.38, 17.5, 35.1, 52.6, 70.1, and 87.6 mg/L) representative for the range of relevant concentrations encountered in clinical practice. For each concentration, samples were stored for 0, 7, 14, 21, 28, 42, 56, 70, 84, 112, 140, 168, 196, 224, 252, 280, 308, 336, and 364 days at −20 °C before being transferred to −80 °C until analysis. Degradation was modeled using polynomial regression analysis and artificial neural network (ANN). Meropenem showed significant degradation over time in human plasma when stored at −20 °C. Degradation was present over the whole concentration range and increased with higher concentrations until a concentration of 35.1 mg/L. Both models showed accurate prediction of meropenem degradation. In conclusion, this study provides detailed insights into the concentration-dependent degradation of meropenem in human plasma stored at −20 °C over 1 year. Meropenem in human plasma is shown to be stable at least up to approximately 80 days when stored at −20 °C. The polynomial model allows calculating original meropenem concentrations in samples stored for a known period of time at −20 °C.
Comparative Analysis of Gradient Diffusion and Disk Diffusion with Agar Dilution for Susceptibility Testing of Elizabethkingia anophelis
Authors: Chiu Chien-Tung , Lai Chung-Hsu , Huang Yi-Han , Yang Chih-Hui , Lin Jiun-Nong
Published: April 2021

Elizabethkingia anophelis has recently emerged as a cause of life-threatening infections. This study compared the results of antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) conducted for E. anophelis through different methods. E. anophelis isolates collected between January 2005 and June 2019 were examined for their susceptibility to 14 antimicrobial agents by using disk diffusion, gradient diffusion (Etest; bioMérieux S.A., Marcy l’Etoile, France), and agar dilution methods. The agar dilution method was the reference assay. According to the agar dilution method, the isolates exhibited the highest susceptibility to minocycline (100%), doxycycline (97.6%), rifampin (95.2%), and levofloxacin (78.6%). A very major error rate of >1.5% was observed for nine antibiotics tested using the disk diffusion method. The overall categorical agreement rate between the disk diffusion and agar dilution methods was 74.8%, and ceftazidime, minocycline, levofloxacin, and rifampin met the minimum requirements for discrepancy and agreement rates. The Etest method tended to produce lower log2 minimum inhibitory concentrations for the antibiotics, except for trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole and rifampin; the method resulted in very major errors for nine antibiotics. The overall essential and categorical agreement rates between the Etest and agar dilution methods were 67.3% and 76.1%, respectively. The Etest method demonstrated acceptable discrepancy and agreement rates for ceftazidime, minocycline, doxycycline, levofloxacin, and rifampin. AST results obtained through the disk diffusion and Etest methods for multiple antibiotics differed significantly from those obtained using the agar dilution method. These two assays should not be a routine alternative for AST for E. anophelis.
Impact of Prior Antibiotic Use in Primary Care on Escherichia coli Resistance to Third Generation Cephalosporins: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Fulgenzio Chiara , Massari Marco , Traversa Giuseppe , Da Cas Roberto , Ferrante Gianluigi , Aschbacher Richard , Moser Verena , Pagani Elisabetta , Vestri Anna Rita , Massidda Orietta , Kurotschka Peter Konstantin
Published: April 2021

Research is lacking on the reversibility of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Thus, we aimed to determine the influence of previous antibiotic use on the development and decay over time of third generation cephalosporin (3GC)-resistance of E. coli. Using the database of hospital laboratories of the Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen (Italy), anonymously linked to the database of outpatient pharmaceutical prescriptions and the hospital discharge record database, this matched case-control study was conducted including as cases all those who have had a positive culture from any site for 3GC resistant E. coli (3GCREC) during a 2016 hospital stay. Data were analyzed by conditional logistic regression. 244 cases were matched to 1553 controls by the date of the first isolate. Male sex (OR 1.49, 95% CI 1.10–2.01), older age (OR 1.11, 95% CI 1.02–1.21), the number of different antibiotics taken in the previous five years (OR 1.20, 95% CI 1.08–1.33), at least one antibiotic prescription in the previous year (OR 1.92, 95% CI 1.36–2.71), and the diagnosis of diabetes (OR 1.57, 95% CI 1.08–2.30) were independent risk factors for 3GCREC colonization/infection. Patients who last received an antibiotic prescription two years or three to five years before hospitalization showed non-significant differences with controls (OR 0.97, 95% CI 0.68–1.38 and OR 0.85, 95% CI 0.59–1.24), compared to an OR of 1.92 (95% CI 1.36–2.71) in those receiving antibiotics in the year preceding hospitalization. The effect of previous antibiotic use on 3GC-resistance of E. coli is highest after greater cumulative exposure to any antibiotic as well as to 3GCs and in the first 12 months after antibiotics are taken and then decreases progressively.
Comparison of Economic Performance of Lead-Acid and Li-Ion Batteries in Standalone Photovoltaic Energy Systems
Authors: Carroquino Javier , Escriche-Martínez Cristina , Valiño Luis , Dufo-López Rodolfo
Published: April 2021

Standalone renewable energy systems usually incorporate batteries to get a steady energy supply. Currently, Li-ion batteries are gradually displacing lead-acid ones. In practice, the choice is made without previous comparison of its profitability in each case. This work compares the economic performance of both types of battery, in five real case studies with different demand profiles. For each case, two sets of simulations are carried out. In one of the sets, the energy demand is supplied by a standalone photovoltaic system and, in the other one, by a standalone hybrid photovoltaic-diesel system. Through optimization processes, the economic optimum solutions are obtained. In addition, sensitivity analyses on various parameters have been carried out, seeking the influence in favor of one or another type of battery. The results show that if the type of battery is changed, to achieve the economic optimum the entire system must be resized. In some cases, the economic optimum is reached with Li-ion and in others with lead-acid batteries, depending on the demand profiles. Thus, both types of batteries can be profitable options in standalone energy systems, with a greater tendency to lead-acid in fully photovoltaic systems and to Li-ion in hybrids. The price reductions that would make Li-ion the only choice is quantified.
Effect of Built Environment Factors on Pedestrian Safety in Portuguese Urban Areas
Authors: Barón Leidy , Otila da Costa Jocilene , Soares Francisco , Faria Susana , Prudêncio Jacques Maria Alice , Fraga de Freitas Elisabete
Published: April 2021

This paper identifies and analyzes variables that influence pedestrian safety based on the definition of models of pedestrian crash frequency for urban areas in Portugal. It considers three groups of explanatory variables, namely: (i) built environment; (ii) pedestrian infrastructure, and (iii) road infrastructure, as well as exposure variables combining pedestrian and vehicular traffic volumes. Data on the 16 variables considered were gathered from locations in the counties of Braga and Guimarães. The inclusion of pedestrian infrastructure variables in studies of this type is an innovation that allows for measuring the impacts of the dimensions recommended for this type of infrastructure and assessing the implementation of policies to support the mobility of vulnerable users, especially pedestrians. Examples of such variables are unobstructed space for pedestrian mobility and the recommendable distance separating regulated crossings. Zero-Truncated Negative Binomial Regression Models (ZTNB) and Generalized Estimation Equations (GEE) are used to develop crash prediction models. Results show that in addition to the variables identified in similar studies such as carriageway width, other statistically significant variables like longitudinal slope and distance between crosswalks have a negative influence on pedestrian safety. On-street parking places, one-way streets, and the existence of raised medians have an opposite contribution to safety.
Protein-Based 3D Biofabrication of Biomaterials
Authors: Mirzaei Mahta , Okoro Oseweuba Valentine , Nie Lei , Petri Denise Freitas Siqueira , Shavandi Amin
Published: April 2021

Protein/peptide-based hydrogel biomaterial inks with the ability to incorporate various cells and mimic the extracellular matrix’s function are promising candidates for 3D printing and biomaterials engineering. This is because proteins contain multiple functional groups as reactive sites for enzymatic, chemical modification or physical gelation or cross-linking, which is essential for the filament formation and printing processes in general. The primary mechanism in the protein gelation process is the unfolding of its native structure and its aggregation into a gel network. This network is then stabilized through both noncovalent and covalent cross-link. Diverse proteins and polypeptides can be obtained from humans, animals, or plants or can be synthetically engineered. In this review, we describe the major proteins that have been used for 3D printing, highlight their physicochemical properties in relation to 3D printing and their various tissue engineering application are discussed.
Modulation of the Antioxidant Defense System by Exogenous l-Glutamic Acid Application Enhances Salt Tolerance in Lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.)
Authors: Fardus Jannatul , Hossain Md. Shahadat , Fujita Masayuki
Published: April 2021

Salt stress greatly disturbs the growth, morpho-physiological, and biochemical performance of plants. However, different physiological processes and acclimation mechanisms can be induced under stress, while some of them can be modulated by the appropriate chemical stimulus. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of exogenous pretreatment with 10 mM l-glutamic acid (l-Glu) on the physiological and biochemical parameters of lentil (Lensculinaris Medik.) under 110 mM NaCl stress. Salt stress inhibited the growth and reduced the photosynthetic pigment (chlorophylls and carotenoids) level, water content, and survival of lentil seedlings during recovery from the stress. Salt stress also induced oxidative damage, as indicated by higher hydrogen peroxide and malonaldehyde contents and electrolyte leakage, by interrupting the antioxidant defense system and promoting the accumulation of toxic levels of Na+. However, l-Glu pretreatment mitigated the salt-induced damage in lentil seedlings by reducing the accumulation of Na+, maintaining ion homeostasis, and increasing the activities of antioxidant enzymes (catalase and ascorbate peroxidase). As a result, salt-induced oxidative damage was reduced, seedling growth and photosynthetic pigment contents were enhanced, and the survival rate of the lentil seedlings was improved in response to salt stress, indicating an ameliorative role for l-Glu in lentil seedling growth under salt stress.
The Challenges and Strategies of Antisense Oligonucleotide Drug Delivery
Authors: Gagliardi Maria , Ashizawa Ana Tari
Published: April 2021

Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) are used to selectively inhibit the translation of disease-associated genes via Ribonuclease H (RNaseH)-mediated cleavage or steric hindrance. They are being developed as a novel and promising class of drugs targeting a wide range of diseases. Despite the great potential and numerous ASO drugs in preclinical research and clinical trials, there are many limitations to this technology. In this review we will focus on the challenges of ASO delivery and the strategies adopted to improve their stability in the bloodstream, delivery to target sites, and cellular uptake. Focusing on liposomal delivery, we will specifically describe liposome-incorporated growth factor receptor-bound protein-2 (Grb2) antisense oligodeoxynucleotide BP1001. BP1001 is unique because it is uncharged and is essentially non-toxic, as demonstrated in preclinical and clinical studies. Additionally, its enhanced biodistribution makes it an attractive therapeutic modality for hematologic malignancies as well as solid tumors. A detailed understanding of the obstacles that ASOs face prior to reaching their targets and continued advances in methods to overcome them will allow us to harness ASOs’ full potential in precision medicine.
Design of In Vitro Hair Follicles for Different Applications in the Treatment of Alopecia—A Review
Authors: Žnidarič Matej , Žurga Žan Michel , Maver Uroš
Published: April 2021

The hair research field has seen great improvement in recent decades, with in vitro hair follicle (HF) models being extensively developed. However, due to the cellular complexity and number of various molecular interactions that must be coordinated, a fully functional in vitro model of HFs remains elusive. The most common bioengineering approach to grow HFs in vitro is to manipulate their features on cellular and molecular levels, with dermal papilla cells being the main focus. In this study, we focus on providing a better understanding of HFs in general and how they behave in vitro. The first part of the review presents skin morphology with an emphasis on HFs and hair loss. The remainder of the paper evaluates cells, materials, and methods of in vitro growth of HFs. Lastly, in vitro models and assays for evaluating the effects of active compounds on alopecia and hair growth are presented, with the final emphasis on applications of in vitro HFs in hair transplantation. Since the growth of in vitro HFs is a complicated procedure, there is still a great number of unanswered questions aimed at understanding the long-term cycling of HFs without losing inductivity. Incorporating other regions of HFs that lead to the successful formation of different hair classes remains a difficult challenge.
Cerebral Autoregulation in Ischemic Stroke: From Pathophysiology to Clinical Concepts
Authors: Nogueira Ricardo C. , Beishon Lucy , Bor-Seng-Shu Edson , Panerai Ronney B. , Robinson Thompson G.
Published: April 2021

Ischemic stroke (IS) is one of the most impacting diseases in the world. In the last decades, new therapies have been introduced to improve outcomes after IS, most of them aiming for recanalization of the occluded vessel. However, despite this advance, there are still a large number of patients that remain disabled. One interesting possible therapeutic approach would be interventions guided by cerebral hemodynamic parameters such as dynamic cerebral autoregulation (dCA). Supportive hemodynamic therapies aiming to optimize perfusion in the ischemic area could protect the brain and may even extend the therapeutic window for reperfusion therapies. However, the knowledge of how to implement these therapies in the complex pathophysiology of brain ischemia is challenging and still not fully understood. This comprehensive review will focus on the state of the art in this promising area with emphasis on the following aspects: (1) pathophysiology of CA in the ischemic process; (2) methodology used to evaluate CA in IS; (3) CA studies in IS patients; (4) potential non-reperfusion therapies for IS patients based on the CA concept; and (5) the impact of common IS-associated comorbidities and phenotype on CA status. The review also points to the gaps existing in the current research to be further explored in future trials.
Current Methods of Post-Translational Modification Analysis and Their Applications in Blood Cancers
Authors: Dunphy Katie , Dowling Paul , Bazou Despina , O’Gorman Peter
Published: April 2021

Post-translational modifications (PTMs) add a layer of complexity to the proteome through the addition of biochemical moieties to specific residues of proteins, altering their structure, function and/or localization. Mass spectrometry (MS)-based techniques are at the forefront of PTM analysis due to their ability to detect large numbers of modified proteins with a high level of sensitivity and specificity. The low stoichiometry of modified peptides means fractionation and enrichment techniques are often performed prior to MS to improve detection yields. Immuno-based techniques remain popular, with improvements in the quality of commercially available modification-specific antibodies facilitating the detection of modified proteins with high affinity. PTM-focused studies on blood cancers have provided information on altered cellular processes, including cell signaling, apoptosis and transcriptional regulation, that contribute to the malignant phenotype. Furthermore, the mechanism of action of many blood cancer therapies, such as kinase inhibitors, involves inhibiting or modulating protein modifications. Continued optimization of protocols and techniques for PTM analysis in blood cancer will undoubtedly lead to novel insights into mechanisms of malignant transformation, proliferation, and survival, in addition to the identification of novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets. This review discusses techniques used for PTM analysis and their applications in blood cancer research.
Carbohydrate-Based Azacrown Ethers in Asymmetric Syntheses
Authors: Orbán István , Bakó Péter , Rapi Zsolt
Published: April 2021

Carbohydrate-based crown ethers represent a special group of chiral phase transfer catalysts. Several derivatives of these macrocycles have been synthesized in our research group. Among these compounds, monoaza-15-crown-5 lariat ethers proved to be effective phase transfer and enantioselective catalysts in certain reactions. Those chiral azacrown ethers incorporating various carbohydrate moieties in the macrocyclic structure are reviewed, which generated asymmetric induction in reactions, such as Michael addition, epoxidation of enones, Darzens condensation and Michael-initiated ring-closure (MIRC) reaction. Effects on the catalytic activity of the structural changes are the focus.
Electrochemical Approach to Detection of Chlorophene in Water Catalyzed by a Laccase Modified Gold Electrode
Authors: Quintanilla-Villanueva Gabriela Elizabeth , Luna-Moreno Donato , Sánchez-Álvarez Araceli , Villarreal-Chiu Juan Francisco , Rodríguez-Delgado José Manuel , Rodríguez-Delgado Melissa Marlene
Published: April 2021

Despite the increasing number of reports that relate antimicrobial chlorophene (CP) with health and environmental effects, few studies have addressed biosensing technologies to detect this threat. This work proposed an electrochemical approach for the detection of CP using laccase enzymes as an alternative recognition element immobilized onto thin-film gold electrodes. The electrochemical parameters of the detection method, under controlled conditions, resulted in a limit of detection (0.14 ± 0.06 mg L−1) and quantification (0.48 ± 0.04 mg L−1) that agreed with concentrations of CP that already had been measured in natural water samples. Nevertheless, during the analysis of natural river water samples, the provided method suffered a drawback due to matrix effects reflected in the obtained recovery percentage, the value of which was 62.0 ± 2.4% compared to the 101.3 ± 3.5% obtained by the HPLC reference method. These detrimental effects were mainly attributed to organic matter, SO4-2, and Cl- present in river samples.
IMERG-Based Meteorological Drought Analysis over Italy
Authors: Caloiero Tommaso , Caroletti Giulio Nils , Coscarelli Roberto
Published: April 2021

The Mediterranean region is an area particularly susceptible to water scarcity and drought. In this work, drought has been analyzed in Italy using multiple timescales of the standardized precipitation index (SPI) evaluated from the Integrated Multi-satellitE Retrievals for Global Precipitation Measurement product from 2000 to 2020. In particular, drought characteristics (severity, duration, and intensity) have been estimated by means of the run theory applied to the SPI values calculated in 3325 grid points falling within the Italian territory. Results clearly indicate that although a high number of drought events has been identified for the short timescale, these events present a lower duration and lesser severity than the long-timescale droughts. The main outcomes of this study, with the indication of the spatial distribution of the drought characteristics in Italy, allow identifying the areas that could also face water stress conditions in the future, thus requiring drought monitoring and adequate adaptation strategies.
Preparation and Tribocorrosion Performance of Different Si-Doped TiSiN-Ag Coatings on Different Substrates in Seawater
Authors: Cai Ke , Jiang Bailing , Zhang Jing , Su Xiaolei
Published: April 2021

TiSiN-Ag composite coatings with different Si doping contents were prepared by multi-arc ion plating technology on 316L, TC4, and H65 copper substrates, respectively. The microstructure of the prepared coatings was characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and energy-dispersive spectroscopy, respectively. The mechanical properties, electrochemical properties, and tribological properties were characterized by a micro-hardness tester, electrochemical workstation, scratch tester, and friction and wear tester, respectively. Results showed that the coatings with 8 wt.% Si doping content had a smaller average grain size, denser structure, excellent mechanical properties, and better anti-tribocorrosion performance than those with 5 wt.% Si doping content. The coating on the TC4 substrate with 8 wt.% Si doping content presented the best combination of properties and is a candidate for an anti-tribocorrosion material in seawater.
Comparison between Highly Complex Location Models and GAMLSS
Authors: Ramires Thiago G. , Nakamura Luiz R. , Righetto Ana J. , Carvalho Renan J. , Vieira Lucas A. , Pereira Carlos A. B.
Published: April 2021

This paper presents a discussion regarding regression models, especially those belonging to the location class. Our main motivation is that, with simple distributions having simple interpretations, in some cases, one gets better results than the ones obtained with overly complex distributions. For instance, with the reverse Gumbel (RG) distribution, it is possible to explain response variables by making use of the generalized additive models for location, scale, and shape (GAMLSS) framework, which allows the fitting of several parameters (characteristics) of the probabilistic distributions, like mean, mode, variance, and others. Three real data applications are used to compare several location models against the RG under the GAMLSS framework. The intention is to show that the use of a simple distribution (e.g., RG) based on a more sophisticated regression structure may be preferable than using a more complex location model.
Energy-Related Behaviour of Consumers from the Silesia Province (Poland)—Towards a Low-Carbon Economy
Authors: Słupik Sylwia , Kos-Łabędowicz Joanna , Trzęsiok Joanna
Published: April 2021

The issue of energy behaviour among Polish consumers, and especially the motives and attitudes they manifest, is relatively under-researched. This article attempts to identify individual attitudes and beliefs of energy consumers using the example of the residents of the province of Silesia (Poland). The authors conducted the expert segmentation of respondents in terms of their motivation for saving energy, based on the results of their proprietary survey. The second stage of the study involved using a classification model that allowed for the characterisation of the obtained groups. Psychological and financial factors were of greatest significance, which is confirmed by the results of other studies. Nonetheless, the obtained results explicitly indicate the specificity of the region, which requires transformation towards a low-emission economy. Despite the initial stage of changes both in the awareness of the consumers and the public interventions of the authorities, it should be emphasized that a majority of the respondents—at least to a basic extent—declared taking energy-saving measures. Financial motives are predominant among the respondents, although pro-environmental motives can also be noticed, which might translate into increased involvement and concern for the environment and climate.
Effect of Biochar Addition on the Microbial Community and Methane Production in the Rapid Degradation Process of Corn Straw
Authors: Wang Zhi , Guo Ying , Wang Weiwei , Chen Liumeng , Sun Yongming , Xing Tao , Kong Xiaoying
Published: April 2021

Anaerobic digestion with corn straw faces the problems of difficult degradation, long fermentation time and acid accumulation in the high concentration of feedstocks. In order to speed up the process of methane production, corn straw treated with sodium hydroxide was used in thermophilic (50 °C) anaerobic digestion, and the effects of biochar addition on the performance of methane production and the microbial community were analyzed. The results showed that the cumulative methane production of all treatment groups reached over 75% of the theoretical methane yield in 7 days and the addition of 4% biochar increased the cumulative methane production by 6.75% compared to the control group. The addition of biochar also decreased the number of biogas and methane production peaks from 2 to 1, and had a positive effect on shortening the digestion start-up period and reducing the fluctuation of biogas production during the digestion process. The addition of 4% biochar increased the abundance of the bacterial family Peptococcaceae throughout the digestion period, promoting the hydrolysis rate of corn straw. The dominant archaeal genus Methanosarcina was significantly more abundant at the peak stage and the end of methane production with 4% biochar added compared to the control group.
Designing Control and Protection Systems with Regard to Integrated Functional Safety and Cybersecurity Aspects
Authors: Śliwiński Marcin , Piesik Emilian
Published: April 2021

This article addresses current problems of risk analysis and probabilistic modelling for functional safety management in the life cycle of safety-related systems. Two main stages in the lifecycle of these systems are distinguished, namely the design and operation. The risk analysis and probabilistic modelling differ in these stages in view of available knowledge and data. Due to the complexity and uncertainty involved, both qualitative and quantitative information can be useful in risk analysis and probabilistic modelling. Some methodological aspects of the functional safety assessment are outlined that include modelling of dependent failures or cybersecurity and verifying the safety integrity level (SIL) under uncertainty. It is illustrated how the assumptions in the process of risk analysis and probabilistic modelling influence results obtained and, therefore, potentially the decisions taken in functional safety management. Programmable control and safety systems play an important role in mitigating and controlling risks in the operation of hazardous installations. This paper presents ways to deal with safety hazards involving such systems to be considered in risk analysis and integrated functional safety and cybersecurity management.
Steady State Experimental Characterization of a Twin Entry Turbine under Different Admission Conditions
Authors: Usai Vittorio , Marelli Silvia
Published: April 2021

The increasingly restrictive limits on exhaust emissions of automotive internal combustion engines imposed in recent years are pushing OEMs to seek new solutions to improve powertrain efficiency. Despite the increase in electric and hybrid powertrains, the turbocharging technique is still one of the most adopted solution in automotive internal combustion engines to achieve good efficiency with high specific power levels. Nowadays, turbocharged downsized engines are the most common solution to lower CO2 emissions. Pulse turbocharging is the most common boosting layout in automotive applications as the best response in terms of time-to-boost and exhaust energy extraction. In a high-fractionated engine with four or more cylinders, a twin entry turbine can be adopted to maximize pulse turbocharging benefits and avoid interaction in the discharge phase of the cylinders. The disadvantages of the twin entry turbine are mainly due to the complexity of the exhaust piping line and the high amount of information required to build a rigorous and reliable matching model. This paper presents a detailed experimental characterization of a twin entry turbine with particular reference to the turbine efficiency and the swallowing capacity under different admission conditions. The steady flow experimental campaign was performed at the turbocharger test bench of the University of Genoa, in order to analyze the behavior of the twin entry turbine in full, partial and unbalanced admission. These are the conditions in which the turbine must work instantaneously during its normal operation in engine application. The results show a different swallowing capacity of each sector and the interactions between the two entries.