bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermoregulatory reactions of female buffaloes raised in the sun and in the shade, in the climatic conditions of the rainy season of the Island of Marajó, Pará, Brazil
Authors: Silva Jamile Andréa Rodrigues da , Pantoja Messy Hennear de Andrade , Silva Welligton Conceição da , Almeida Jean Caio Figueiredo de , Noronha Rafaella de Paula Pacheco , Barbosa Antônio Vinicius Corrêa , Lourenço Júnior José de Brito
Published: September 2022

Buffaloes are well-adapted to hot, humid climates and muddy terrain, however they show signs of thermal discomfort when exposed to direct sunlight due to their specific structural features such as dark skin, small number of sweat glands/skin area and thick skin. Epidermis layer of the skin, making heat dissipation difficult. The study aimed to evaluate the thermal comfort of female buffaloes raised in traditional and silvopastoral systems, on the island of Marajó, Pará, during the rainy season of the year. The experiment was carried out in Cachoeira do Arari, Retiro Grande, Marajó, Pará (00°55'37.814424”S 48°43'48.143060”W). Twenty female Murrah buffaloes, aged between 2 and 3years and average weight of 282 ± 29 kg, were used. They were fed on pasture and divided into two groups: WS group (with shade) and NS group (without shade). The WS group (n = 10) remained grazing in a silvopastoral system, with access to the shade of red Jambeiro (Syzygium malaccense) trees. The NS group (n = 10) was kept in grazing, in a traditional system, without access to the shade of trees or shades. The physiological variables rectal temperature (RT), respiratory rate (RR) and body surface temperature (BST) (forehead, left side of the thorax and left flank) were measured at 6:00, 10:00, 14:00, 18:00, and 22:00 h. At the same times, data on air temperature, relative air humidity, wind speed (WSP), solar radiation (SR) and Temperature and Humidity Index (THI) were also recorded. THI, WSP and SR were higher at 14:00 h (P < 0.05). At 10:00, 14:00, and 18:00 h there was difference of RT between treatments (P < 0.05), where animals of the NS group had the highest values. In the NS group, the highest value of RT was observed at 14:00 h (39.38 ± 0.43°C), when THI and SR were higher. At 10:00 and 14:00 h, BST was higher in the NS group (p < 0.05), of 34,55 ± 1.03 and 35.35 ± 1.51°C, respectively, and both groups had the highest value of BST at those same times. There was difference of the RR between treatments at 10:00 h and 14:00 h (p < 0.05), where the highest values were found in the NS group (33.71 ± 7.58 e 50.40 ± 18.41 mov./min., respectively). Even in the rainy season of the year, the climatic conditions of Ilha do Marajó are unfavorable to the welfare of buffaloes, especially at 2:00 pm, when the SR is higher. Thus, the use of the system with access to shade, such as silvopastoral, is recommended, in order to provide greater thermal comfort to animals and improve their productivity.
Electromechanical Natural Frequency Analysis of an Eco-Friendly Active Sandwich Plate
Authors: Moradi-Dastjerdi Rasool , Behdinan Kamran
Published: September 2022

In conventional piezoelectric ceramics, their brittle nature and containing lead are two crucial issues that significantly restrict their uses in many applications such as biomedical devices. In this work, we suggest the use of an eco-friendly piezoelectric nanocomposite material to piezoelectrically activate a cantilever meta-structure plate to be used as a novel actuator/sensor or even energy harvester; this cantilever plate is formed of several polymeric links to create an auxetic core plate that structurally shows a negative Poisson’s ratio. Moreover, the active nanocomposite materials are used as the face sheets on the auxetic plate; these active layers are made of nanowires of zinc oxide (ZnO) that are placed into an epoxy matrix in different forms of functionally graded (FG) patterns. For such active sandwich plates (ASPs) with potential electromechanical applications, a coupled electromechanical analysis has been performed to numerically investigate their natural frequencies as a crucial design parameter in such electromechanical devices. By developing a meshless method based on a higher plate theory, the effects of nanowire volume fraction, nanowire distribution, auxetic parameters, layer dimensions, and electrical terminal set-up have been studied; this in-depth study reveals that ASPs with an auxetic core have much lower natural frequencies than ASPs with honeycomb cores which would be very helpful in designing actuators or energy harvesters using the proposed cantilever sandwich plates.
Design of a 2T1R-Type Parallel Mechanism: Performance Analysis and Size Optimization
Authors: Wang Dongbao , Zhang Jing , Guo Hongwei , Liu Rongqiang , Kou Ziming
Published: September 2022

The planar three-degree-of-freedom (DoF) parallel mechanism plays a significant role in the fields of automobiles and electronics due to its advantages such as high stiffness, large carrying capability, and stable operation. In this paper, a planar 3-DoF (2T1R) parallel mechanism is derived by structural evolution from the parallelogram by means of Grassmann line geometry and the Atlas method. First, the position equation of the mechanism is established and the inverse kinematics and Jacobian matrix are investigated. The maximum deviation between the theory and simulation results of the inverse kinematics and Jacobian matrix is 0.48%, which verifies the accuracy of the theoretical model. Then, the constraint conditions of the mechanism are defined. Based on the inverse position solution, the numerical method is used to solve the workspace of the mechanism. It is concluded that the ratio of the workspace to the entire triangular space is about 15% higher than that of the 3-PRR parallel mechanism. Next, based on the Jacobian matrix, the performance indexes are established to evaluate stiffness and dexterity. Finally, the size of the mechanism is optimized by means of the genetic algorithm to improve the comprehensive performance.
Convex Optimization for Rendezvous and Proximity Operation via Birkhoff Pseudospectral Method
Authors: Zhang Zhiwei , Zhao Dangjun , Li Xianbin , Kong Chunyang , Su Ming
Published: September 2022

Rapid and accurate rendezvous and proximity operations for spacecraft are crucial to the success of most space missions. In this paper, a sequential convex programming method, combined with the first-order and second-order Birkhoff pseudospectral methods, is proposed for the autonomous rendezvous and proximity operations of spacecraft. The original nonlinear and nonconvex close-range rendezvous problem with thrust constraints and no-fly zone constraints is converted into its convex version by using the sequential convexification techniques; then, the Birkhoff pseudospectral method is used to transcribe the dynamic constraints into a series of linear algebraic equality constraints, in other words, a convex second-order conic programming problem with a relatively small condition number. Thus, the resulting problem can be accurately and efficiently solved by a convex solver. The simulation results indicate that the proposed methods, especially the second-order Birkhoff pseudospectral method, have obvious advantages over other methods in computational efficiency and sensitivity.
Numerical Study of the Induced Shock on the Mixing Augmentation of Hydrogen Counter-Flow Jet in the Supersonic Flow
Authors: Han Yi , Shen Chibing , Du Zhaobo , Tang Haoran
Published: September 2022

In the scramjet engine, the injection and mixing of fuel are the basis for organizing efficient combustion. The shock wave/jet shear layer interaction is one of the methods used to enhance fuel mixing in supersonic flow. In this research, the effect of the induced shock wave on the mixing augmentation of fuel counter-flow jet is studied in the supersonic crossflow. The results show that the symmetrical setting of the shock wave generators (SWGs) has the highest mixing efficiency but brings a greater total pressure loss. In the specific range, the mixing efficiency increases with the increase in the angle of the SWG, while the total pressure recovery coefficient is the opposite. The induced oblique shock wave acting on the front of the fuel jet has an obvious influence on the flow field, resulting in the highest mixing efficiency. In the end, the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) is used to evaluate the extent of mixing augmentation by mixing parameters, which provides a decision-making idea for the scheme decision of mixing augmentation.
Effect of Zinc along with Organic Fertilizers on Phosphorus Uptake and Use Efficiency by Cocksfoot (Dactylis glomerata L.)
Authors: Kuziemska Beata , Klej Paulina , Wysokinski Andrzej , Rudziński Robert
Published: September 2022

Scarce findings on phosphorus (P) uptake and its utilization under increased zinc (Zn) levels in organic fertilizers amended soil led to conducting research. The aim of the study was to determine the effect of increasing the application of zinc (200, 400, and 600 mg·kg−1 of soil) together with different organic fertilizers (bovine manure, chicken manure, and spent mushroom substrate) on the content and uptake of phosphorus by cocksfoot and the phosphorus use efficiency from organic fertilizers. The application of different amounts of zinc did not affect phosphorus content in the grass, but it significantly influenced its accumulation (p < 0.05). The most phosphorus uptake was accumulated by plants following zinc application at 200 mg·kg−1 of soil and the least following application of 600 mg·kg−1 of soil. The phosphorus use efficiency from organic fertilizers was increased by zinc application of 400 mg·kg−1 of soil and reduced by 600 mg·kg−1 of soil. Organic fertilizers did not significantly affect the phosphorus content in the grass but did increase its uptake. The highest phosphorus use efficiency was obtained for bovine manure. The study showed no antagonistic relationships between zinc and phosphorus, but increasing zinc application affected the coefficient of phosphorus utilization from organic fertilizers.
Potential of Silicon to Improve Biological Control of Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda on Maize
Authors: Zimba Kennedy J. , Read Quentin D. , Haseeb Muhammad , Meagher Robert L. , Legaspi Jesusa C.
Published: September 2022

Silicon (Si) accumulation in plants confers a mechanical barrier to insect herbivory and may alter plant chemistry to increase the attraction of natural enemies to host insect herbivores on Si−treated plants. The fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda, is a major insect pest of grain crops, including maize (Zea mays L.). This study examined whether Si supplementation alters maize volatile compounds that mediate host location in Euthyrhynchus floridanus, a generalist predator of FAW. A four-arm olfactometer was used to test the olfactory preference of nymphs and adults of E. floridanus to the odor of maize leaf materials from plants that were; Si−treated and infested, Si−treated without infestation, Si−deprived and infested, and Si−deprived without infestation. The probabilities of individual insects choosing between the four treatments were estimated using a multinomial generalized linear mixed model. There were no statistical differences in the olfactory preference of E. floridanus between Si−treated and Si−deprived maize leaf materials. However, the median estimate showed that nymphs were almost twice likely to be attracted to Si−supplemented leaf material, indicating a potential positive effect of Si. However, a more robust follow-up study is needed to further assess the impact of Si on E. floridanus.
Accuracy of Genomic Prediction of Yield and Sugar Traits in Saccharum spp. Hybrids
Authors: Islam Md. S. , McCord Per , Read Quentin D. , Qin Lifang , Lipka Alexander E. , Sood Sushma , Todd James , Olatoye Marcus
Published: September 2022

Genomic selection (GS) has been demonstrated to enhance the selection process in breeding programs. The objectives of this study were to experimentally evaluate different GS methods in sugarcane hybrids and to determine the prospect of GS in future breeding approaches. Using sugar and yield-related trait data from 432 sugarcane clones and 10,435 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), a study was conducted using seven different GS models. While fivefold cross-validated prediction accuracy differed by trait and by crop cycle, there were only small differences in prediction accuracy among the different models. Prediction accuracy was on average 0.20 across all traits and crop cycles for all tested models. Utilizing a trait-assisted GS model, we could effectively predict the fivefold cross-validated genomic estimated breeding value of ratoon crops using both SNPs and trait values from the plant cane crop. We found that the plateau of prediction accuracy could be achieved with 4000 to 5000 SNPs. Prediction accuracy did not decline with decreasing size of the training population until it was reduced below 60% (259) to 80% (346) of the original number of clones. Our findings suggest that GS is possibly a new direction for improving sugar and yield-related traits in sugarcane.
Has China’s Carbon Emissions Trading Pilot Policy Improved Agricultural Green Total Factor Productivity?
Authors: Yu Zhuohui , Mao Shiping , Lin Qingning
Published: September 2022

The carbon trading system affects all aspects of the economy and society profoundly. Agriculture, as a high-carbon-emitting industry, has been hard-hit. China’s agricultural activities will emit about 820 million tons of carbon dioxide equivalents, accounting for 7% of the country’s total carbon emissions. In order to develop a green and low-carbon economy and control greenhouse gas emissions, China officially launched the pilot carbon emissions trading policy in 2013. The effects and mechanism of this on agricultural carbon emissions are still unclear. Herein, this paper uses China’s provincial panel data from 2000 to 2019 to measure agricultural green total factor productivity regarding the implementation of China’s carbon emissions trading pilot policy in 2013 as a quasi-natural experiment, and uses PSM-DID robustness analysis to evaluate the effect of China’s carbon emission rights trading pilot policy on agricultural green total factor productivity in pilot areas. The propensity score method is a type of statistical method that uses nonexperimental or observational data for intervention-effect analysis, which reduces the effects of bias and allows for more reasonable comparisons between treatment and control groups. “Difference in difference” is an approach to policy-effect evaluation based on a counterfactual framework to assess the change in the observed factors in both cases of policy occurrence and nonoccurrence. PSM-DID is a combination of PSM and DID using the PSM method to match each treatment group sample to a specific control group sample, which can solve the problem of self-selection bias in the DID method and assess the policy implementation effect more accurately. This study found that China’s carbon emissions trading pilot policy has significantly improved China’s agricultural green total factor productivity. Further impact mechanism tests show that China’s carbon emissions trading pilot policy will improve agricultural green total factor productivity through environmental protection policies and technological innovation. Finally, this paper puts forward corresponding countermeasures and suggestions based on the research results.
Effect of a Biostimulant Based on Polyphenols and Glycine Betaine on Tomato Plants’ Responses to Salt Stress
Authors: Zuzunaga-Rosas Javier , González-Orenga Sara , Tofei Ana Maria , Boscaiu Monica , Moreno-Ramón Héctor , Ibáñez-Asensio Sara , Vicente Oscar
Published: September 2022

Climate change accentuates abiotic stress conditions putting at risk several commercial cultivars particularly vulnerable to salinity in the early stages of development, which makes adopting new technologies in tune with the environment necessary to mitigate its impact. In this study, we tested the possible effects of a commercial biostimulant (BALOX®) on enhancing salt stress tolerance in salt-treated tomato plants, analysing plant growth and several stress biochemical markers: photosynthetic pigments, ion contents in roots and leaves, leaf concentrations of different osmolytes, oxidative stress markers, non-enzymatic antioxidants, and the specific activities of major antioxidant enzymes. The experimental design consisted of three soil salinity levels (non-saline, saline, and very saline), two biostimulant doses (0.4 mL and 0.8 mL of the BALOX® stock per litre of irrigation water), and the non-treated control (without biostimulant), evaluated at 30 and 60 days of treatment. The biostimulant favoured plant growth, especially at the root level and in saline soils. In addition, it helped reduce Na+ and Cl− uptake by the roots and seemed to stimulate, to some extent, K+ and Ca2+ transport to the aerial part of the plant. The BALOX® application significantly reduced the level of stress affecting the plants in saline soils, as shown by the decrease in the contents of proline and oxidative stress biomarkers and the activity of salt-induced antioxidant enzymes. Some of the biostimulant effects were also observed under low salinity conditions; therefore, in addition to enhancing salt stress responses, BALOX® appears to stimulate the growth of tomato plants through a general improvement of photosynthesis and primary metabolism.
The Increase in the Karstification–Photosynthesis Coupled Carbon Sink and Its Implication for Carbon Neutrality
Authors: Wu Yanyou , Wu Yansheng
Published: September 2022

Two of the most important CO2 sequestration processes on Earth are plant photosynthesis and rock chemical dissolution. Photosynthesis is undoubtedly the most important biochemical reaction and carbon sink processes on Earth. Karst geological action does not produce net carbon sinks. Photosynthesis and karstification in nature are coupled. Karstification–photosynthesis coupling can stabilize and increase the capacity of karstic and photosynthetic carbon sinks. Bidirectional isotope tracer culture technology can quantify the utilization of different inorganic carbon sources by plants. Bicarbonate utilization by plants is a driver of karstification–photosynthesis coupling, which depends on plant species and the environment. Carbonic anhydrase, as a pivot of karstification–photosynthesis coupling, can promote inorganic carbon assimilation in plants and the dissolution of carbonate rocks. Karst-adaptable plants can efficiently promote root-derived bicarbonate and atmospheric carbon dioxide use by plants, finally achieving the conjugate promotion of karstic carbon sinks and photosynthetic carbon sinks. Strengthening karstification–photosynthesis coupling and developing karst-adaptable plants will greatly improve the capacity of carbon sinks in karst ecosystems and better serve the “Carbon peak and Carbon neutralization” goals of China.
Nitrogen Source Preference in Maize at Seedling Stage Is Mainly Dependent on Growth Medium pH
Authors: Zhang Hao-Qing , Shen Ren-Fang , Zhao Xue-Qiang
Published: September 2022

To improve crop nitrogen recovery efficiency (NRE), plants must be supplied with their preferred form of nitrogen (N). However, whether pH affects crop N-form preference remains unclear. Here, we aimed to explore how maize (Zea mays L.) preference for NH4+ and NO3− is affected by pH and to determine the critical pH controlling this preference. Maize plants were grown with NH4+ or NO3− in different soils (pH 4.32–8.14) and nutrient solutions (pH 4.00–8.00). After harvest, plant dry weights, N content, N uptake, NRE, soil pH, and exchangeable aluminum (Al) were measured. Compared with the effect of NO3−, NH4+ decreased maize dry weight, N uptake, and NRE by 28–94% at soil pHs of 4.32 and 4.36 and a solution pH of 4.00, whereas it increased these parameters by 10–88% at soil pHs of 6.52–8.02 and solution pHs of 7.00 and 8.00. NO3− increased soil pH and decreased soil exchangeable Al content at soil pHs of 4.32–6.68. Critical soil and solution pHs for changing plant growth and N uptake preference for NH4+ vs. NO3− ranged from 5.08 to 5.40 and from 5.50 to 6.59, respectively. In conclusion, the preference of maize seedling growth and N uptake for NH4+ vs. NO3− mainly depends on the pH of the growth medium, and maize seedlings generally prefer NO3− in strongly acid soils but NH4+ in neutral to alkaline soils.
Skull and Neck Lesions in a Long-Finned Pilot Whale (Globicephala melas): A Result of Ship Collision?
Authors: Alstrup Aage Kristian Olsen , Sonne Christian , Brauckhoff Melanie , Hansen Jørgen Hilmer , Thøstesen Charlotte Bie
Published: September 2022

Necropsy on an adult male pilot whale stranded in Denmark in an area with heavy boat traffic revealed internal lesions in the head and neck region, while the exterior did not show any visible lesions. We found multiple fractured bones, muscle trauma and extensive hemorrhage including a fractured occipital bone with several fragments and bone pieces deeply embedded into the cerebrum of the brain. The brain was literally smashed while the third and partially fourth cervical vertebrae were almost pulverized surrounded by large amounts of blood and muscle contusion. The whale was likely killed due to a ship collision, and this particular case substantiates the value of always performing full necropsies including incisions in head and neck regions on all stranded whales—especially in areas with heavy boat traffic. This case demonstrates the importance of veterinarians performing full necropsies of whales to rule out other causes of death. Otherwise, ship collisions may be an overlooked issue having implications for population health.
Anaemia in Ruminants Caused by Plant Consumption
Authors: Ruiz Héctor , Lacasta Delia , Ramos Juan José , Quintas Hélder , Ruiz de Arcaute Marta , Ramo María Ángeles , Villanueva-Saz Sergio , Ferrer Luis Miguel
Published: September 2022

Plant toxicology has affected animals throughout evolution. Plants have adapted themselves to the environment. This adaptation has led to the development of defensive strategies to avoid being consumed. Plants have several chemical compounds, which can cause deleterious effects on people or animals that consume them, causing a wide variety of clinical signs. Plants from various latitudes, both cultivated for human and animal feeding or decorative purpose and even wild growth plants are able to generate anaemia in ruminants. Coumarins or ptaquiloside predispose bleeding and haemorrhages, causing a haemorrhagic disease in affected animals. In this group, some important fodder plants, such sweet clover (Genus Melilotus spp.), or other weeds distributed worldwide, such as bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum) of giant fennel (Ferula communis), are included. On the other hand, sulfur-containing chemicals (e.g., n-propyl disulfate and S-propyl cysteine sulfoxides (SMCOs)) may cause severe direct damage to the erythrocyte and their membrane, leading to their destruction and causing haemolytic anaemia in the animal. This review presents the most frequent intoxication by plants causing anaemia in ruminants. Toxic compounds, clinical signs, diagnosis and possible treatments are also presented.
Effect of Organic or Inorganic Mineral Premix in the Diet on Laying Performance of Aged Laying Hens and Eggshell Quality
Authors: Kim Chan-Ho , Jeong So Hee , Lim Se Jin , Cheon Si Nae , Kim Kihyun , Chun Julan , Jeon Junghwan
Published: September 2022

In this study, we examined the effect of diets supplemented with organic and inorganic mineral premixes on the laying performance and eggshell quality of aged laying hens. A total of 600 68-week-old Hy-Line Brown laying hens were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 dietary treatments, repeated 5 times: Mash type basal diet, basal diet supplemented with an inorganic mineral premix (1.0 g/kg), and basal diet supplemented with an organic mineral premix (1.8 g/kg). The results showed that eggshell strength was higher (p < 0.01) in the inorganic mineral diet group than in the organic mineral and basal diet groups. Further, the levels of Fe and Mn in the liver were higher (p < 0.05) in the inorganic and organic mineral diet groups than in the basal diet group. The concentrations of Fe and Mg in the spleen were different (p < 0.05) among the treatment groups, with the highest levels reported in the organic mineral premix group. The concentrations of Cu, Zn, and Mn in the eggshell were different (p < 0.05) among the groups, with the highest levels reported in the inorganic and organic mineral premix diet groups. In conclusion, a diet containing organic mineral premix improved eggshell strength and had no detrimental effect on the laying performance of aged laying hens.
Improvement of Moist Heat Resistance of Ascorbic Acid through Encapsulation in Egg Yolk–Chitosan Composite: Application for Production of Highly Nutritious Shrimp Feed Pellets
Authors: Jaroensaensuai Jidapa , Wongsasulak Saowakon , Yoovidhya Tipaporn , Devahastin Sakamon , Rungrassamee Wanilada
Published: September 2022

Egg yolk (EY) is an excellent supplement for aquatic animals and has good technofunctionality. Ascorbic acid (AA) is a potent bioactive substance and is essentially added to shrimp feed; however, it is drastically lost in both feed processing and in rearing environments. In this study, AA was microencapsulated in an EY–chitosan (CS) composite. The encapsulated vitamin was then mixed into a shrimp feed mixture to form pelleted feed via twin-screw extrusion. The effects of the EY/AA ratio and the amount of CS on moist heat resistance, production yield, encapsulation efficiency (EE), and morphology of microcapsules were investigated. The molecular interaction of the microcapsule components was analyzed by FTIR. The size and size distribution of the microcapsules were determined using a laser diffraction analyzer. The microstructure was evaluated by SEM. The physical properties of the microcapsule-fortified pelleted feed were determined. The AA retention at each step of feed processing and during exposure to seawater was evaluated. The results showed that the microcapsules had a spherical shape with an average diameter of ~6.0 μm. Decreasing the EY/AA ratio significantly improved the production yield, EE, and morphology of the microcapsules. EY proved to be the key component for moist heat resistance, while CS majorly improved the production yield, EE, and morphology of the microcapsules. The microcapsules showed no adverse impact on feed properties. The loss of AA in food processing and seawater was remarkably improved. The final content of the encapsulated AA remaining in shrimp feed was 16-fold higher than that of the unencapsulated AA.
Harnessing the Therapeutic Potential of the Nrf2/Bach1 Signaling Pathway in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Ahuja Manuj , Kaidery Navneet Ammal , Dutta Debashis , Attucks Otis C. , Kazakov Eliot H. , Gazaryan Irina , Matsumoto Mitsuyo , Igarashi Kazuhiko , Sharma Sudarshana M. , Thomas Bobby
Published: September 2022

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative movement disorder characterized by a progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta. Although a complex interplay of multiple environmental and genetic factors has been implicated, the etiology of neuronal death in PD remains unresolved. Various mechanisms of neuronal degeneration in PD have been proposed, including oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, neuroinflammation, α-synuclein proteostasis, disruption of calcium homeostasis, and other cell death pathways. While many drugs individually targeting these pathways have shown promise in preclinical PD models, this promise has not yet translated into neuroprotective therapies in human PD. This has consequently spurred efforts to identify alternative targets with multipronged therapeutic approaches. A promising therapeutic target that could modulate multiple etiological pathways involves drug-induced activation of a coordinated genetic program regulated by the transcription factor, nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). Nrf2 regulates the transcription of over 250 genes, creating a multifaceted network that integrates cellular activities by expressing cytoprotective genes, promoting the resolution of inflammation, restoring redox and protein homeostasis, stimulating energy metabolism, and facilitating repair. However, FDA-approved electrophilic Nrf2 activators cause irreversible alkylation of cysteine residues in various cellular proteins resulting in side effects. We propose that the transcriptional repressor of BTB and CNC homology 1 (Bach1), which antagonizes Nrf2, could serve as a promising complementary target for the activation of both Nrf2-dependent and Nrf2-independent neuroprotective pathways. This review presents the current knowledge on the Nrf2/Bach1 signaling pathway, its role in various cellular processes, and the benefits of simultaneously inhibiting Bach1 and stabilizing Nrf2 using non-electrophilic small molecules as a novel therapeutic approach for PD.
S-Glutathionylation-Controlled Apoptosis of Lung Epithelial Cells; Potential Implications for Lung Fibrosis
Authors: Corteselli Elizabeth , Aboushousha Reem , Janssen-Heininger Yvonne
Published: September 2022

Glutathione (GSH), a major antioxidant in mammalian cells, regulates several vital cellular processes, such as nutrient metabolism, protein synthesis, and immune responses. In addition to its role in antioxidant defense, GSH controls biological processes through its conjugation to reactive protein cysteines in a post-translational modification known as protein S-glutathionylation (PSSG). PSSG has recently been implicated in the pathogenesis of multiple diseases including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Hallmarks of IPF include repeated injury to the alveolar epithelium with aberrant tissue repair, epithelial cell apoptosis and fibroblast resistance to apoptosis, and the accumulation of extracellular matrix and distortion of normal lung architecture. Several studies have linked oxidative stress and PSSG to the development and progression of IPF. Additionally, it has been suggested that the loss of epithelial cell homeostasis and increased apoptosis, accompanied by the release of various metabolites, creates a vicious cycle that aggravates disease progression. In this short review, we highlight some recent studies that link PSSG to epithelial cell apoptosis and highlight the potential implication of metabolites secreted by apoptotic cells.
DHPA Protects SH-SY5Y Cells from Oxidative Stress-Induced Apoptosis via Mitochondria Apoptosis and the Keap1/Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Cai Yunhui , Xiao Ran , Zhang Yadan , Xu Diya , Wang Ni , Han Mengze , Zhang Yili , Zhang Lin , Zhou Wenhua
Published: September 2022

Oxidative stress in the brain is highly related to the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). It could be induced by the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS), produced by the amyloid beta (Aβ) peptide and excess copper (Cu) in senile plaques and cellular species, such as ascorbic acid (AA) and O2. In this study, the protective effect of 5-hydroxy-7-(4′-hydroxy-3′-methoxyphenyl)-1-phenyl-3-heptanone (DHPA) on Aβ(1–42)/Cu2+/AA mixture-treated SH-SY5Y cells was investigated via in vitro and in silico studies. The results showed that DHPA could inhibit Aβ/Cu2+/AA-induced SH-SY5Y apoptosis, OH· production, intracellular ROS accumulation, and malondialdehyde (MDA) production. Further research demonstrated that DHPA could decrease the ratio of Bax/Bcl-2 and repress the increase of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) of SH-SY5Y cells, to further suppress the activation of caspase-3, and inhibit cell apoptosis. Meanwhile, DHPA could inhibit the Aβ/Cu2+/AA-induced phosphorylation of Erk1/2 and P38 in SH-SY5Y cells, and increase the expression of P-AKT. Furthermore, DHPA could bind to Keap1 to promote the separation of Nrf2 to Keap1 and activate the Keap1/Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway to increase the expression of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), quinone oxidoreductase-1 (NQO1), glutathione (GSH), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Thus, our results demonstrated that DHPA could inhibit Aβ/Cu2+/AA-induced SH-SY5Y apoptosis via scavenging OH·, inhibit mitochondria apoptosis, and activate the Keap1/Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway.
Fucoidan/UVC Combined Treatment Exerts Preferential Antiproliferation in Oral Cancer Cells but Not Normal Cells
Authors: Chuang Ya-Ting , Shiau Jun-Ping , Yen Ching-Yu , Hou Ming-Feng , Jeng Jiiang-Huei , Tang Jen-Yang , Chang Hsueh-Wei
Published: September 2022

Combined treatment is a promising anticancer strategy for improving antiproliferation compared with a single treatment but is limited by adverse side effects on normal cells. Fucoidan (FN), a brown-algae-derived polysaccharide safe food ingredient, exhibits preferential function for antiproliferation to oral cancer but not normal cells. Utilizing the preferential antiproliferation, the impacts of FN in regulating ultraviolet C (UVC) irradiation were assessed in oral cancer cells. A combined treatment (UVC/FN) reduced cell viability of oral cancer cells (Ca9-22 and CAL 27) more than single treatments (FN or UVC), i.e., 53.7%/54.6% vs. 71.2%/91.6%, and 89.2%/79.4%, respectively, while the cell viability of UVC/FN treating on non-malignant oral (S–G) was higher than oral cancer cells, ranging from 106.0 to 108.5%. Mechanistically, UVC/FN preferentially generated higher subG1 accumulation and apoptosis-related inductions (annexin V, caspases 3, 8, and 9) in oral cancer cells than single treatments. UVC/FN preferentially generated higher oxidative stress than single treatments, as evidenced by flow cytometry-detecting reactive oxygen species, mitochondrial superoxide, and glutathione. Moreover, UVC/FN preferentially caused more DNA damage (γH2AX and 8-hydroxy-2’-deoxyguanosine) in oral cancer cells than in single treatments. N-acetylcysteine pretreatment validated the oxidative stress effects in these UVC/FN-induced changes. Taken together, FN effectively enhances UVC-triggered antiproliferation to oral cancer cells. UVC/FN provides a promising potential for preferential and synergistic antiproliferation in antioral cancer therapy.
Characterisation of Bario Rice Flour Varieties: Nutritional Compositions and Physicochemical Properties
Authors: Ronie Macdalyna Esther , Abdul Aziz Ahmad Hazim , Mohd Noor Nor Qhairul Izzreen , Yahya Faridah , Mamat Hasmadi
Published: September 2022

Gluten-free grains have been intensively studied as alternatives to wheat flour. Bario rice, an indigenous crop from Sarawak, Malaysia, is noted for its excellent aroma and taste. This research examined the nutritional and physicochemical properties of Bario rice flour variations. Four Bario varieties—Bario Adan Halus (white), Bario Tuan (brown), Bario Celum (black), and Bario Merah Sederhana (red)—were analysed against the reference sample. The results revealed Bario samples containing moisture contents from 8.35% to 8.69%, ash contents from 0.27% to 1.25%, crude protein contents from 6.89% to 9.43%, crude fat contents from 0.16% to 2.45%, crude fibre contents from 0.21% to 0.87%, and carbohydrate contents from 79.17% to 82.13%. All Bario rice flour contains high amylose contents (26.67% to 36.52%), which positively impact loaf volume. The water absorption capacity (1.20 g/g to 1.26 g/g) of all samples shows no significant difference (p > 0.05). The swelling capacity was significantly (p < 0.05) high in non-pigmented rice flour. In contrast, pigmented Bario rice flour presented a greater water solubility index than non-pigmented Bario rice flour. The Bario rice flour gelatinisation onset (71.43 °C to 76.49 °C) and peak (77.03 °C to 79.56 °C) temperature were lower than those of the control sample. Higher gelatinisation enthalpy was presented by Bario rice flour (1.23 J/g to 2.59 J/g) than by the control (0.79 J/g). Retrogradation onset (42.65 °C to 50.79 °C), peak (53.64 °C to 56.15 °C) temperatures, and enthalpy (0.19 J/g to 0.87 J/g) were greater in Bario rice flour compared with those in the control. The research suggests that Bario rice flour has potential for use in gluten-free bread mainly due to the relevant carbohydrates, crude proteins, amylose, and swelling capacity.
Detection of Mineralization Zones Using Aeromagnetic Data
Authors: Mohamed Ahmed , Abdelrady Mohamed , Alshehri Fahad , Mohammed Mohammed Atef , Abdelrady Ahmed
Published: September 2022

Every day, mining corporations grow and develop over Egypt’s Eastern Desert in search of gold, silver, and other metals. Mineral resources in Egypt are a powerful tool for increasing national income. In this study, we are interested in mineral exploration, such as gold and porphyry deposits, using aeromagnetic data, applying various processing techniques such as First Vertical Derivative, Total Horizontal Gradient, Analytical Signal, Tilt Derivative, and the center of exploration targeting (CET). The study area is located at the Central Eastern Desert, which includes the Barramiya, Abu Marwa, and Abu Mireiwah regions. The analysis of the delineated structural trends shows that the N–S, NW–SE, and NE–SW are the most effective directions for managing deposits in the investigated area. A minor trend is also shown in the E–W direction and corresponds to the alteration zones reported by geology and prior investigations. Mineralization zones occur most frequently at the contact between ophiolitic serpentinite, sediments, and other rock types. This study intends to add more about the use of the recently developed technology of CET grid analysis for mineral exploration and structural interpretation across the Central Eastern Desert. The CET porphyry analysis map shows locations where several occurrences of porphyry deposits are probable. The newly discovered spots are similar to the area’s usual deposit sites. This study proves that aeromagnetic data are significant in mineral exploration since they are useful for the discovery of the structure and shear zones controlling the mineralization zones.
Comparative Evaluation of Adequacy of Root Canal Treatment Performed by Interns and Undergraduate Dental Students—A Cross-Sectional, Retrospective Study
Authors: Mousa Mohammed Assayed , Alshammari Akram Mojidea , Alshammari Abdulelah Zaid , Alsharari Meshari M. , Baig Muhammad Nadeem , Srivastava Kumar Chandan , Shrivastava Deepti , Alam Mohammad Khursheed , Alonazi Meshal Aber , Algarni Hmoud Ali
Published: September 2022

This study aimed to assess the errors that happened during root canal treatment (RCT) and compare the quality of root canal fillings (RCFs) performed by different academic grades of dental students at Jouf University. Materials and Methods: a retrospective audit study was conducted to check the errors that occurred during RCT performed by seniors and undergraduates. The quality of the RCFs were evaluated, using digital periapical radiographs depending on previously validated criteria. Data analyses were performed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences. Descriptive statistics were used for expressing the frequencies of variables and the Chi-square test was used for comparing different variables with a 0.05 level of significance. Results: overall, 332 endodontically treated teeth (566 root canals) were finally chosen for the study. Out of these treated cases, 156 teeth (47%) had a total of 287 recorded errors, mainly in posterior teeth. From the total number of errors, short obturation was the highest error occurred (29%), followed by lack of apical seal (25.1%). Root perforation was the least reported error (2.8%), proceeded by broken instruments (5.6%). A total of 13.2% of the errors were teeth left with unfilled canals, while 7.7% were for an overextended filling. There were no significant differences between the quality of RCF performed by different academic grades. Conclusion: depending on the current study, the quality of RCTs performed by seniors and undergraduate students was 53% acceptable. A clear plan should be applied to improve the quality of treatment outcomes of undergraduate students by implementing more effective preclinical training courses, increasing the ration of supervisor-to-students, and using more advanced modalities during treatment.
Fine Characterization Method of Concrete Internal Cracks Based on Borehole Optical Imaging
Authors: Wang Chao , Han Zengqiang , Wang Yiteng , Wang Chuanying , Wang Jinchao , Chen Shuangyuan , Hu Sheng
Published: September 2022

The internal cracks of concrete are very important in the safety evaluation of structures, but there is a lack of fine characterization methods at present. Borehole cameras are a piece of in situ borehole detection technology which can measure the structural elements of a borehole wall with high precision. In this paper, borehole camera technology is used to measure the concrete cracks of a tunnel floor, and the morphological characteristics (depth, width, and orientation) of the cracks are analyzed. The results show that the average extension depth of the crack extending from the orifice exceeds 1.195 m, and the width decreases with the increase in depth. The crack orientation is basically stable, with the maximum deviation of 19° at the orifice of different boreholes and 30° at different depths of the same borehole. The crack inside the concrete (not extending to the orifice) usually has a small extension depth and a relatively stable width, but the crack orientation changes greatly. The coarse aggregate and concrete interface have different effects on the extension direction of cracks. This paper also conducted a second measurement on two of the boreholes after an interval of 15 days, and found the difference in crack development in the two measurements. The work of this paper provides a new attempt for the detection and monitoring of concrete crack morphology.
Special Issue on Advanced Information Processing Methods and Their Applications
Authors: Lyakhov Pavel
Published: September 2022

The rapid development of information technology opens up new opportunities in many areas of human activity [...]
Equivalent Modeling and Verification of a High-Steepness and Lightweight Elliptical Aluminum Mirror
Authors: Tan Shuanglong , Zhang Xin , Wang Lingjie , Wu Hongbo , Fu Qiang , Yan Lei , Hu Mingyu
Published: September 2022

In order to realize the compact layout of aerospace payloads, the design and manufacture of high-steepness lightweight aluminum alloy mirrors is a key technology to be explored. For high-steepness mirrors, the traditional method is to establish the initial thickness that satisfies the bending stiffness through finite element optimization iteration, which cannot achieve fast modeling and performance estimation. In this paper, firstly, the equivalent modeling method of the mirror with high steepness is proposed to achieve the equivalent of the elliptic mirror with a diameter of 410 × 310 mm and F# less than 0.7. Based on the mathematical model, topology shape optimization was used to build a highly lightweight mirror structure that could be quickly assembled, and the equivalent area–mass density of the mirror is less than 34 kg/mm2. Next, the rationality of design feasibility was verified by simulation analysis. Finally, by using single point diamond turning combined with post polishing process, the high-precision manufacturing of conventional aluminum alloy mirror was realized. The results show that the mirror shape accuracy is 1/10 λ (λ = 632.8 nm), and the surface roughness Ra is 3.342 nm. This research provides strong theoretical support and application prospects for the low-cost and rapid manufacturing of high-steepness lightweight aluminum alloy mirrors.
Efficiency of Using a Simulator for Ultrasound and Laser Dose Calculation in Physiotherapy
Authors: Martin-Vega Francisco Javier , Martín-Valero Rocío , Gonzalez-Medina Gloria , Carmona-Barrientos Inés , Garcia-Munoz Cristina , Vinolo-Gil Maria Jesus
Published: September 2022

Background: In the context of the lockdowns due to COVID-19, e-learning has become the sole tool allowing learning objectives to be achieved successfully. However, for some subjects, training aided only by this type of tool encounters much difficulty, especially because of the experimental nature of such subjects. Aim: to assess the efficiency of a simulator for estimating dose calculation of ultrasound and laser based on surveys and a written test in a group of students. Methods: Surveys conducted voluntarily and anonymously by a group of students enrolled in the subject General Procedures in Physiotherapy I of the undergraduate degree in Physiotherapy. Furthermore, an objective test containing dose calculation problems for ultrasound and laser had to be solved. Prior to the completion of the objective test, the simulator for calculating ultrasound doses was provided to half of the subjects, whilst the other half were provided with the simulator for calculating laser doses, with both of which they were allowed to practice for a whole week. Results: Out of all the students enrolled in the first year of the undergraduate degree in Physiotherapy, a total of 38 students completed the surveys and 44 took part in the test for solving dose calculation problems. The surveys showed that a substantial number of students consider the use of a simulator for learning purposes efficient. This consideration was corroborated: the response times were reduced and the quantifications were the same for ultrasound, and better for laser. Conclusions: the use of a simulator for ultrasound and laser dose calculation is welcomed by a substantial number of students, and also represents a good additional tool when learning problem resolution.
Beneficial Effects of Pistacia terebinthus Resin on Wine Making
Authors: Kallis Michalis , Boura Konstantina , Karabagias Ioannis K. , Kanellaki Maria , Koutinas Athanasios A.
Published: September 2022

In this work we studied the use of Pistacia terebinthus resin as carrier of a psychrotolerant and alcohol resistant yeast strain Saccharomyces cerevisiae AXAZ-1 for 27 repeated fermentation batches of white must (12.5 °Be) at 28, 21, 14 and 7 °C. The immobilized biocatalyst showed high operational stability during this process. Regarding the repeated fermentation batches with free cells, the fermentation time proved to be higher and so ethanol productivity was lower. Extracted terpenes, terpenoids and polyphenols from P. terebinthus resin were detected in the produced wines contributing to their preservation for at least 35 days at room temperature and 95 days at 4 °C without any addition of potassium metabisulfite. Those extracted compounds from resin gave also a particular pleasant aroma to the produced wines.
A Technical Survey on Delay Defects in Nanoscale Digital VLSI Circuits
Authors: Muthukrishnan Prathiba , Sathasivam Sivanantham
Published: September 2022

As technology scales down, digital VLSI circuits are prone to many manufacturing defects. These defects may result in functional and delay-related circuit failures. The number of test escapes grows when technology is downscaled. Small delay defects (SDDs) and hidden delay defects (HDDs) are of critical importance in industries today since they are the source of most test escapes and reliability problems. Improving test quality and creating new test methods, algorithms, and test designs requires a comprehensive study of these delay defects. This article reviews the effect and impact of SDD and HDD in logic circuits. It also analyzes the relevant fault models, automatic test pattern generation (ATPG) methods, faster-than-at-speed testing (FAST), cell-aware (CA) based delay tests, test quality metrics, diagnosis of SDDs and HDDs, and commercially available Electronic Design Automation (EDA) tools. Based on the analysis, the benefits and drawbacks of several accessible approaches are addressed.