bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simulation and optimization of the particle agglomeration in an aerodynamic agglomerator using a CFD–PBM coupled model
Authors: Liu Hexin , Yang Fuxin , Li Zhenghong , Tan Houzhang , Feng Peng , Liu Xing
Published: June 2020

As an effective method to remove fine particulate matter (FPM) in coal-fired industries, the aerodynamic agglomeration has recently received increasing attention due to its application value. In this paper, a CFD–PBM coupled model of the particle agglomeration for industrial application was developed to predict the particle size distributions (PSDs) using Eulerian multiphase approach and Population Balance Model. Three kinds of particles with different inertia (i.e. inertialess, finite inertial, and inertial) and Brownian motion were considered, and a collision efficiency was induced to modify the kernel functions. Furthermore, the impacts of inlet velocity, initial particle concentration and flow field on the PSDs and the agglomeration efficiency were investigated. The results show that the agglomeration efficiencies of particulate matters with aerodynamic diameter [Formula: see text] 2.5[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m and [Formula: see text] 10[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m (i.e. PM[Formula: see text] and PM[Formula: see text]) both present logarithmic curves with the inlet velocity or the initial particle concentration. Under the working condition of the calculation, the optimal inlet velocity is in the range of 11–15[Formula: see text]m[Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]s[Formula: see text], and the optimal agglomeration efficiency of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] is about 40%. The aerodynamic agglomerator is suitable for the traditional coal-fired power plants and cement plants, but it is not recommended when the initial particle concentration is less than 16.9[Formula: see text]g[Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m[Formula: see text]. The analysis of the flow field shows that the longitudinal edge of the vortex and the windward side of the vortex generator are the main regions where particles agglomerate.
Pure natural quintessential inflation and dark energy
Authors: Selvaganapathy J.
Published: June 2020

We propose the pure natural quintessential inflation model which is motivated by Witten’s conjecture, where the axion couples to pure Yang–Mills [Formula: see text] gauge field at large [Formula: see text] limit. This modifies the standard cosine potential which is presented in the natural inflation, making it compatible with current CMB data. Our model gives a successful inflation as well as acceleration at the late times by quintessence inflaton field ([Formula: see text]). Here the inflaton field is responsible for inflation, after that the field enters into peculiar type of reheating and then they act as dynamical dark energy field which follows the same inflation potential and same model parameters. The dynamical field slowly rolls until the Hubble drops to mass of the quintessence field and it reaches the current dark energy field value. Here the dark energy scale is field dependent. Our quintessence model follows thawing frozen approach, therefore the frozen quintessence field evolves with respect to cosmic time from initial field value [Formula: see text] to present nonzero minimum field value [Formula: see text]. The obtained field value turned into ultralight and it satisfies the present dark energy density which is [Formula: see text].
De Sitter field equations from quadratic curvature gravity: A group theoretical approach
Authors: Dehghani M. , Setare M. R.
Published: June 2020

In this paper, the linearized field equations related to the quadratic curvature gravity theory have been obtained in the four-dimensional de Sitter (dS) space–time. The massless spin-2 field equations have been written in terms of the Casimir operators of dS group making use of the ambient space notations. By imposing some simple constraints, arisen from group theoretical interpretation of the field equations, a new four-dimensional Gauss–Bonnet (GB-)like action has been introduced with the related field equations transforming according to the unitary irreducible representations (UIRs) of dS group. Since, the field equations transform according to the UIRs of dS group, the GB-like action, we just obtained, is expected to be a successful model of modified gravity. For more clarity, the gauge invariant field equations have been solved in terms of a gauge-fixing parameter [Formula: see text]. It has been shown that the solution can be written as the multiplication of a symmetric rank-2 polarization tensor and a massless minimally coupled scalar field on dS space. The Krein–Gupta–Bleuler quantization method has been utilized and the covariant two-point function has been calculated in terms of the massless minimally coupled scalar two-point function, using the ambient space notations. It has been written in terms of dS intrinsic coordinates from the ambient space counterpart. The two-point functions are dS invariant and free of any theoretical problems. It means that the proposed model is a successful model of modified gravity and it can produce significant results in the contexts of classical theory of gravity and quantum gravity toy models.
A numerical approach for the nonlinear temporal conformable fractional foam drainage equation
Authors: Tariq Hira , Günerhan Hatıra , Rezazadeh Hadi , Adel Waleed
Published: June 2020

In this paper, we examine a novel method called the residual power series method (RPSM) which is used in finding an analytic approximate solution to the nonlinear temporal foam drainage equation of fractional order. The solution is obtained in a uniformly convergent series form. Also, 3D graphs for the solution are provided for different values of [Formula: see text] which proves that the method is an effective and straightforward approach of providing excellent results for similar problems.
A sampling point quadrature method for 3-node triangular element for the evaluation of element stiffness matrix in finite element analysis
Authors: Johnson Shyjo , Jeyapoovan T. , Nagarajan D.
Published: June 2020

Recently, many literature studies have focused on the development on new elements in finite elements. This paper aims to develop a new quadrature for the 3-node triangular element for the purpose of evaluation of element stiffness matrix. The analysis of triangular element is usually done in a quadrilateral element by dividing the quadrilateral element into two. The edge sampling point quadrature is a mimics of Gauss numerical integration scheme. This sampling integration scheme consists of five sampling points and weights where four sampling points are at the edge and one at the center of the element. Accuracy of results, convergence of the results and stability of values have been tested using the standard benchmarked problems defined by various research studies.
Catching Numeric Inconsistencies in Graphs
Authors: Fan Wenfei , Liu Xueli , Lu Ping , Tian Chao
Published: June 2020

Numeric inconsistencies are common in real-life knowledge bases and social networks. To catch such errors, we extend graph functional dependencies with linear arithmetic expressions and built-in comparison predicates, referred to as numeric graph dependencies (NGDs). We study fundamental problems for NGDs. We show that their satisfiability, implication, and validation problems are Σ
p
2
-complete, Π
p
2
-complete, and coNP-complete, respectively. However, if we allow non-linear arithmetic expressions, even of degree at most 2, the satisfiability and implication problems become undecidable. In other words, NGDs strike a balance between expressivity and complexity. To make practical use of NGDs, we develop an incremental algorithm IncDect to detect errors in a graph
G
using NGDs in response to updates Δ
G
to
G
. We show that the incremental validation problem is coNP-complete. Nonetheless, algorithm IncDect is localizable, i.e., its cost is determined by small neighbors of nodes in Δ
G
instead of the entire
G
. Moreover, we parallelize IncDect such that it guarantees to reduce running time with the increase of processors. In addition, to strike a balance between the efficiency and accuracy, we also develop polynomial-time parallel algorithms for detection and incremental detection of top-ranked inconsistencies. Using real-life and synthetic graphs, we experimentally verify the scalability and efficiency of the algorithms.
Bismuth Enables the Formation of Disordered Birnessite in Rechargeable Alkaline Batteries
Authors: Bruck Andrea M. , Kim Matthew A. , Ma Lu , Ehrlich Steven N. , Okasinski John S. , Gallaway Joshua W.
Published: June 2020

Recent advances in rechargeable Zn/MnO2 alkaline batteries have shown promise for scalable energy storage systems which provide a safe, low-cost alternative with a demonstrated lifetime over thousands of cycles. This cathode technology is based on a 2-electron Mn redox process where a layered birnessite-type phase has been shown to form after the first cycle with excellent reversibility between the discharge product, Mn(OH)2. Herein, we investigate the reversible reaction between birnessite and Mn(OH)2 with and without a Bi2O3 additive using multimodal structural characterization techniques during active battery cycling. Diffraction results provide evidence of Bi3+ residing in the interlayer of birnessite which prevents irreversible Mn3O4 formation by limiting Mn3+ diffusion within the crystal lattice. Also, upon charge no MnOOH intermediate phases are observed. Instead, X-ray absorption and Raman spectroscopy indicate a disordered, non-crystalline birnessite-type phase consisting of mostly neutral H2O within the interlayer. Birnessite phases will reform without Bi2O3 present, but Mn3O4 formation severely polarizes the potential they are formed at, leading to capacity fade. Also, we discuss the reversible Bi2O3 conversion to Bi0 and its contribution to the observed capacity. We expect the results will provide crucial insight into the development of aqueous, rechargeable battery systems utilizing MnO2.
Fluorinated Acetic Anhydrides as Electrolyte Additives to Improve Cycling Performance of the Lithium Metal Anode
Authors: Heiskanen Satu Kristiina , Lucht Brett L.
Published: June 2020

The investigation of novel fluorinated electrolyte additives for lithium metal anodes has been conducted. Two acetic anhydride derivatives, difluoroacetic anhydride (DFAA) and trifluoroacetic anhydride (TFAA), were investigated in electrolytes composed of LiPF6 in ethylene carbonate (EC) and ethyl methyl carbonate (EMC). The addition of either DFAA or TFAA results in a significant improvement in capacity retention and reversibility of lithium plating. Ex situ surface analysis (XPS, IR-ATR) suggests that incorporation of either TFAA or DFAA results in a lithium carboxylate rich SEI which in turn inhibits SEI degradation resulting in superior cycling performance.
Physical Model and Machine Learning Enabled Electrolyte Channel Design for Fast Charging
Authors: Gao Tianhan , Lu Wei
Published: June 2020

Thick electrode is highly effective to increase the specific energy of a battery cell, but the associated increase in transport distance causes a major barrier for fast charging. We introduce a bio-inspired electrolyte channel design into thick electrodes to improve the cell performance, especially under fast charging conditions. The effects of channel length, width, tapering degree and active material width on the electrochemical performance and mechanical integrity are investigated. Machine learning by deep neural network (DNN) is developed to relate the geometrical parameters of channels to the overall cell performance. Integrating machine learning with the Markov chain Monte Carlo gradient descent optimization, we demonstrate that the complicated multivariable channel geometry optimization problem can be efficiently solved. The results show that within a certain range of geometrical parameters, the specific energy, specific capacity and specific power can be greatly improved. At the same time, the maximum first principal stress which is in the cathode region next to the separator can be significantly reduced, giving better mechanical integrity. Comparing to conventional-designed cells without electrolyte channels, we show a 79% increase in specific energy using channel design optimization. This study provides a design strategy and optimization method to achieve significantly improved battery performance.
Prognostic Significance of Tumor Tissue NeuGcGM3 Ganglioside Expression in Patients Receiving Racotumomab Immunotherapy
Authors: Uskent Necdet , Ayla Sule , Molinas Mandel Nil , Ozkan Metin , Teomete Mehmet , Baloglu Huseyin , Aydıncer Cenk , Yergok Hale , Dogan Ender , Berk Barkın , Yazar Aziz
Published: June 2020

Expression of N-glycolyl GM3 (NeuGcGM3) ganglioside was detected in the tumor specimens of patients who were on Racotumomab anti-idiotype vaccine maintenance treatment, and prognostic significance as a biomarker was investigated. No statistically significant association was observed in the multivariate analysis between overall survival and tissue NeuGcGM3 IHC levels. Although numerically there was a difference favoring less intense IHC for better prognosis, this did not reach statistical power. However, there was a strong correlation between Racotumomab doses and overall survival (OS). Mean OS of the patient with more than 10 Racotumomab application was significantly longer than the patient who had less than 10 injections (70.7 months vs. 31.1 months, p<0.001). We propose that, regardless of staining intensity, the presence of NeuGcGM3 in patient tissues might be an indicator of benefit in Racotumomab treatment.
Effectiveness of Acupuncture Treatment on Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy: A Pilot, Randomized, Assessor-Blinded, Controlled Trial
Authors: Iravani Somayeh , Kazemi Motlagh Amir Hooman , Emami Razavi Seyede Zahra , Shahi Farhad , Wang Jing , Hou Li , Sun Wenjun , Afshari Fard Mohammad Reza , Aghili Mahdi , Karimi Mehrdad , Rezaeizadeh Hossein , Zhao Baixiao
Published: June 2020

Objective. This pilot study aims to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of acupuncture in the treatment of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN). Methods. This study was a pilot randomized controlled trial, which was conducted with cooperation between Beijing University of Chinese Medicine (BUCM), China, and Tehran University of Medical Science (TUMS), Iran. Forty participants with CIPN were randomly assigned (1 : 1) to receive twelve sessions of acupuncture (20 minutes each session over 4 weeks) or take one 300 mg tablet of vitamin B1 and three 300 mg capsules of gabapentin per day for 4 weeks, after which both groups were followed up for 4 weeks. The primary endpoint was CIPN symptom severity measured by the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS). The secondary endpoints included sensory neuropathy grade evaluated by the National Cancer Institute-Common Toxicity Criteria for Adverse Events (NCI-CTCAE), neurophysiological assessment of CIPN by the nerve conduction study (NCS), and the patient overall satisfaction with treatment. Safety was assessed at each visit. Results. The NRS and NCI-CTCAE sensory neuropathy grading scales decreased significantly over time in both groups (both P<0.001), with a significantly higher reduction in the acupuncture group (P<0.001 and P=0.03, respectively). In addition, the acupuncture group showed a higher overall satisfaction with the treatment at the end of treatment and after 4 weeks follow-up, in comparison with the vit B1 and gabapentin group (P=0.01 and P=0.001, respectively). The NCS (except for the latency of the sural nerve) in the acupuncture group improved significantly (P<0.05), while improvement in the vit B1 and gabapentin group was not observed (P>0.05). Conclusion. Our study revealed that acupuncture, as a kind of traditional Chinese therapeutic method, is significantly effective and safe in the treatment of CIPN. Moreover, acupuncture is more effective than using vitamin B1 and gabapentin as the conventional treatment. Trial registration. This trial is registered with the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT20190615043900N1).
Trends and Determinants of Underweight among Under-Five Children in Ethiopia: Data from EDHS
Authors: Fenta Haile Mekonnen , Tesfaw Lijalem Melie , Derebe Muluwerk Ayele
Published: June 2020

Background and Aims. Malnutrition among under-five children is one of the major causes of death in low-income countries. Accordingly, health sectors in developing countries are providing renewed attention to the status of children’s nutrition. This study sought to explore the trends and identify the determinants of underweight Ethiopian under-five children across time. Methods. The data in the study was obtained from the 2000, 2005, 2011, and 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Surveys (EDHS). The study involved 27564 under-five children across Ethiopian regions. The status of underweight is determined using weight for age. This anthropometric index has been categorized as “underweight” (Z-score less than -2) and “not underweight” (Z-score greater or equal to -2). Logistic regression was used for each survey to detect significant determinants of underweight, while multivariate decomposition was used to determine the trends and identified the child, maternal, and household characteristics that are associated with underweight. Result. The survey in 2000, 2005, 2011, and 2016 showed that 41, 33, 29, and 24% of sampled under-five children were underweight, respectively, and after adjusting for confounders, children were more likely to be underweight if they were male (OR=1.16, 95%CI=1.02, 1.33) in 2016 EDHS. Children whose mother’s age is below 20 (OR=5.75, 95%CI=1.44, 23.1)) were more likely to be underweight compared with children whose mother’s age is above 45. Children whose mothers had no education and primary education only (OR=1.65, 95% CI 1.05, 2.59 and OR=1.43, 95% CI 1.15, 1.78, respectively) were more likely underweight compared to children whose mothers had higher education. Conclusion. Children’s age, birth weight, mother’s education status, and children’s gender were the most common significant factors of underweight. The prevalence of underweight among under-five children declined over time which leads to an achievement in terms of meeting millennium development goals and nutritional targets. Government and concerned stakeholders should work to maintain this achievement for further reduction of underweight among under-five children.
Mental Health Problems during Pregnancy and the Postpartum Period: A Multicenter Knowledge Assessment Survey among Healthcare Providers
Authors: Patabendige M. , Athulathmudali S. R. , Chandrasinghe S. K.
Published: June 2020

Background. Mental illness related to pregnancy can have long-lasting consequences. Healthcare providers are often the most frequent medical contact with the potential for early detection of these. Objectives were to study the awareness regarding mental health problems during pregnancy and the postpartum period among healthcare providers. Methods. A cross-sectional study was carried out with healthcare providers including the nursing staff, midwifery staff, and medical officers working at obstetric wards in three tertiary care hospitals in Sri Lanka. A self-administered questionnaire assessed staff experience with mothers having mental problems, knowledge on mental health problems related to pregnancy, and knowledge about risk factors, common symptoms, and possible consequences on a five-point Likert scale from “Strongly Agree” to “Strongly Disagree.” Results. A total of 300 staff were approached and invited to participate. Only 152 responded to the questionnaire (response rate of 50.1%). Mean (SD) age was 35.8 (9.7) years and mean (SD) years of experience was 10.1 (9.1) years. Age more than 35 years of healthcare providers is associated with statistically significant (p=0.02) average knowledge scores on the consequences of maternal mental health problems. The symptom of “excessively worrying about baby’s health” had the lowest score across all three categories with an average of 34.2%. Only 42.8% have ever heard of EPDS. Overall awareness and knowledge about risk factors, symptoms, and consequences regarding pregnancy-related maternal mental health problems are generally good among the healthcare providers studied. However, some of the few aspects are not satisfactory. Health education of pregnant women, promoting regular in-service training sessions, improvement of infrastructure, and involvement of family members from the antenatal period were discussed by the majority. Conclusion. Despite good overall awareness and knowledge, application into practice with the utilization of validated assessments is poor. This may probably explain why Sri Lanka has a high prevalence of postpartum depression suggesting urgent attention.
The Association of Extreme Tachycardia and Sustained Return of Spontaneous Circulation after Nontraumatic Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest
Authors: Lee Dong Keon , Jung Eugi , Jo You Hwan , Kim Joonghee , Lee Jae Hyuk , Park Seung Min , Kim Yu Jin
Published: June 2020

Objective. Heart rate (HR), an essential vital sign that reflects hemodynamic stability, is influenced by myocardial oxygen demand, coronary blood flow, and myocardial performance. HR at the time of the return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) could be influenced by the β1-adrenergic effect of the epinephrine administered during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and its effect could be decreased in patients who have the failing heart. We aimed to investigate the association between HR at the time of ROSC and the outcomes of adult out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) patients. Methods. This study was a secondary analysis of a cardiac arrest registry from a single institution from January 2008 to July 2014. The OHCA patients who achieved ROSC at the emergency department (ED) were included, and HR was retrieved from an electrocardiogram or vital sign at the time of ROSC. The patients were categorized into four groups according to the HR (bradycardia (HR < 60), normal HR (60 ≤ HR ≤ 100), tachycardia (100 < HR < 150), and extreme tachycardia (HR ≥ 150)). The primary outcome was the rate of sustained ROSC and the secondary outcomes were the rate of one-month survival and six-month good neurologic outcome. Results. A total of 330 patients were included. In the univariate logistic regression model, the rate of sustained ROSC increased by 17% as HR increased by every 10 beats per minute (bpm) (odds ratio (OR), 1.171; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.077–1.274, p<0.001). In the multivariate logistic regression model, extreme tachycardia was independently associated with a high probability of sustained ROSC compared to normal heart rate (OR, 15.96; 95% CI, 2.04–124.93, p=0.008). Conclusion. Extreme tachycardia (HR ≥ 150) at the time of ROSC is independently associated with a high probability of sustained ROSC in nontraumatic adult OHCA patients.
An Improved Composite Fly Ash Gel to Extinguish Underground Coal Fire in Close Distance Coal Seams: A Case Study
Authors: Guo Jun , Cai Guobin , Jin Yan , Zheng Xuezhao , Liu Yin
Published: June 2020

Fire extinguishing with the superior performance of fly ash composite colloid material is a cost‐effective colloid fire prevention technology. In this paper, a new powder additive (suspending agent (XK‐XJ) and gelling agent) was developed for the existing fire extinguishing technology of fly ash compound colloid. Tests show that the best additions to the fly ash slurry were 0.3% and 0.1∼0.3%, respectively. The grouting technical scheme of adding a suspending agent on the ground and gelling agent downhole was proposed to solve the problems of solid material settlement and blockage in the long‐distance pipeline transportation process. Finally, the optimized fly ash colloid fire prevention and extinguishing technology was successfully applied to the fire control engineering examples of close‐range coal seam groups, and the rationality of the developed powder and its proportion was tested, and the feasibility in coal fire control was tested.
Comparison between Hyperspectral Imaging and Chemical Analysis of Polyphenol Oxidase Activity on Fresh-Cut Apple Slices
Authors: Shrestha Luna , Kulig Boris , Moscetti Roberto , Massantini Riccardo , Pawelzik Elke , Hensel Oliver , Sturm Barbara
Published: June 2020

The assessment of the quality of fresh-cut apple slices is important for processing, storage, market value, and consumption. Determination of polyphenol oxidase activity (PPO) in apples is critical for controlling the quality of the final product (i.e., dried apples and juices). Hyperspectral imaging (HSI) is a nondestructive, noncontact, and rapid food quality assessment technique. It has the potential to detect physical and chemical quality attributes of foods such as PPO of apple. The aim of this study was to investigate the suitability of HSI in the visible and near-infrared (VIS-NIR) range for indirect assessment of PPO activity of fresh-cut apple slices. Apple slices of two cultivars (cv. Golden Delicious and Elstar) were used to build a robust detection algorithm, which is independent of cultivars and applied treatments. Partial least squares (PLS) regression using the 7-fold cross-validation method and method comparison analysis (Bland–Altman plot, Passing–Bablok regression, and Deming regression) were performed. The 95% confidence interval (CI) bands for the Bland–Altman analysis between the methods were −4.19 and 13.11, and the mean difference was 3.7e−12. The Passing–Bablok regression had a slope of 0.8 and an intercept of 7.6. The slope of the Deming regression was 0.8 within the CI bands of 0.56 and 1.10. These results show acceptable performance and no significant deviation from linearity. Hence, the results demonstrated the feasibility of HSI as an indirect alternative to the standard chemical analysis of PPO enzyme activity.
Rhein Suppresses Neuroinflammation via Multiple Signaling Pathways in LPS‐Stimulated BV2 Microglia Cells
Authors: Zheng Piao , Tian Xuefei , Zhang Wei , Yang Zhaoyu , Zhou Jing , Zheng Jun , Cui Hanjin , Tang Tao , Luo Jiekun , Wang Yang
Published: June 2020

As a bioactive absorbed compound of rhubarb, Rhein is applied for the treatment of brain injury. However, the underlying pharmacological mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we aimed to explore antineuroinflammatory functions and underlying mechanisms of Rhein in vitro. BV2 microglia cells were chosen and irritated by LPS. The influence of Rhein on cell viability was determined using MTT assay. We finely gauged the proinflammatory cytokines of TNF‐α and IL‐1β through tests of immunofluorescence staining, ELISA, RT‐qPCR, and western blot. Additionally, mediators including IL‐6, IL‐12, iNOS, and IL‐10 were surveyed by ELISA. Furthermore, protein levels of the underlying signaling pathways (PI3K/Akt, p38, ERK1/2, and TLR4/NF‐κB) were tested adopting western blot. We found that Rhein reduced the secretion of pivotal indicators including TNF‐α and IL‐1β, effectively restraining their mRNA and protein expression in LPS‐activated BV2 microglial cells. Besides, Rhein treatment demoted the production of IL‐6, IL‐12, and iNOS and promoted the excretion of IL‐10. Subsequent mechanistic experiments revealed that Rhein obviously downregulated the phosphorylation levels of PI3K, Akt, p38, and ERK1/2 and simultaneously upregulated the PTEN expression. In addition, Rhein antagonized the increase of TLR4, p‐IκBα, and NF‐κB. In summary, Rhein suppresses neuroinflammation via multiple signaling pathways (PI3K/Akt, p38, ERK1/2, and TLR4/NF‐κB) in LPS‐stimulated BV2 microglia cells. This study highlights a natural agent for prevention and treatment of neuroinflammation.
The Effect of Rice Bran Extract on Arterial Blood Pressure, Hepatic Steatosis, and Inflammation in Mice Fed with a High-Fat Diet
Authors: Duansak Naphatsanan , Piyabhan Pritsana , Srisawat Umarat , Naowaboot Jarinyaporn , Lerdvuthisopon Nusiri , Schmid-Schönbein Geert
Published: June 2020

Background. Inflammation and hypertension are primary mechanisms involving in obesity-associated adverse effects of a high-fat diet. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of rice bran extract (RBE) on arterial blood pressure, hepatic steatosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress in high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese mice. Methods. Male ICR mice were divided into four groups, including a normal-diet control group, a high-fat diet (HFD) (60% kcal from fat) group, an HFD group treated with RBE (220 mg/kg/day), and an HFD group treated with 1100 mg/kg/day for eight weeks. Besides body weight and arterial blood pressure, we determined liver values of total cholesterol, triglyceride, as well as percent body fat, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), malondialdehyde (MDA), nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB), matrix metalloprotease-9 (MMP-9), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and mRNA endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS). Results. The HFD group had increased body weight, increased systolic and diastolic blood pressure, liver total cholesterol, triglyceride, NF-κB, COX-2 and MMP-9 protein levels, and decreased mRNA eNOS in the aorta. Mice of the HFD group receiving RBE had reduced diastolic blood pressure, as well as significantly decreased liver and serum TNF-α and MDA levels in the liver, and reduced NF-κB levels in both the liver and heart. Conclusions. These results demonstrate that RBE decreases diastolic blood pressure, the liver lipid droplet accumulation, liver and myocardial NF-κB, myocardial COX-2 and MMP-9 protein levels, and oxidative stress. Moreover, RBE may improve endothelial function and may alleviate adverse health effects associated with obesity including obesity-associated hypertension.
In Vitro Shoot Regeneration of Oil Seed CropSesamum indicum L. from Seedling Cotyledon Explant to Lay Ground for Genetic Transformation in Ethiopia
Authors: Weldemichael Micheale Yifter , Bayratsion Yemane Tsehaye , Sbhatu Desta Berhe , Abraha Girmay Gebresamuel , Juhar Hagos Mohammedseid , Birhan Kassa Abraha , Sibhatu Fiseha Baraki , Berhe Birhanu Debesay , Sahle Tagel Elias , Mossa Mohammed Mebrahtu , Gebru Haftay Abadi
Published: June 2020

This study was conducted to develop an efficient regeneration protocol used for sesame genetic transformation. Published regeneration methods using 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP), indol-3-butyric acid (IBA), andα-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) were used in this experiment. Cotyledon explants of 14 Ethiopian genotypes collected from Humera Agricultural Research Center (HuARC) were used. Optimized culture conditions were used to investigate the regeneration response of different genotypes. Significant interactions between hormone treatments, MS media, and genotypes for shoot and root regeneration were recorded. Results showed that culture of cotyledons were developed and used as a source of explants for shoot regeneration. The highest shoot number, leaf number, and shoot length were recorded on explants cultured on 1.00 mg·L−1BAP + 1.00 mg·L−1NAA in Hirhir and Aberghele, 0.75 mg·L−1BAP + 1.00 mg·L−1NAA in Baha Zeyit, and 1.0 mg·L−1BAP + 1.00 mg·L−1NAA in Humera 1, respectively. The lowest shoot number, leaf number, and shoot length were observed on explants cultured on the control in Gondar 1, Borkana, and Baha Necho, Borkana and Beha Necho, and Baha Necho, respectively. Genotypes with well-developed shoots were transferred to root induction media. Under rooting media, the best mean, root number, and root length were observed in Aberghele and ACC44 at 0.1 mg·L−1IBA and 0.2 mg·L−1NAA, respectively. Standardizing genotypes trait data to mean 0 and unity variance has helped to group 14 genotypes into four distinct clusters. Hirhir, Abeghele, Baha Zeyit, and Humera 1 were the best genotypes. These findings lay ground to Ethiopian sesame to do further genetic transformation aiming at improving the crop.
The Nonantibiotic Macrolide EM900 Attenuates House Dust Mite-Induced Airway Inflammation in a Mouse Model of Obesity-Associated Asthma
Authors: Sadamatsu Hironori , Takahashi Koichiro , Tashiro Hiroki , Kurihara Yuki , Kato Go , Uchida Masaru , Noguchi Yoshihiko , Kurata Keigo , Ōmura Satoshi , Sunazuka Toshiaki , Kimura Shinya , Sueoka-Aragane Naoko
Published: June 2020

Introduction: Obesity-associated asthma is characterized by type 2-low airway inflammation. We previously showed that EM900, which is a 12-membered nonantibiotic macrolide, suppressed airway inflammation in a mouse model of asthma exacerbation. The aim of this study was to clarify the effects of EM900 in obesity-associated asthma. Methods: BALB/c mice were fed a low-fat diet (LFD) or high-fat diet (HFD). Mice were intranasally sensitized and challenged with house dust mites (HDMs) and were orally administered EM900. Airway inflammation was assessed using inflammatory cells in bronchoalveolar lavage (BALF). Cytokines were examined by ELISA in lung tissues. Lung interstitial macrophages (CD45+, CD11clow, CD11b+, and Ly6c−) were counted by flow cytometry in single cells from lung tissues. Results: Body weight increased significantly in the HFD compared with the LFD group. The total cell count and numbers of neutrophils and eosinophils in BALF were significantly suppressed by EM900 administration in the HFD-HDM group. The levels of interleukin (IL)-17A were increased in the HFD-HDM group compared with the LFD-HDM group, although the difference did not reach statistical significance. The levels of IL-17A, macrophage inflammatory protein 2, IL-1β, IL-5, and regulated on activation, normal T cell expressed and secreted in lung tissue were significantly suppressed by EM900 administration in the HFD-HDM group. The percentage of interstitial macrophages in lungs was significantly decreased by EM900 administration in the HFD-HDM group. Conclusion: Both type 2 and type 2-low airway inflammation were attenuated by EM900 in this obesity-associated asthma model. These results show that EM900 might be a candidate agent for the treatment of obesity-associated asthma.
Small Symptomatic Unilateral Choroidal Osteoma Diagnosed with Enhanced-Depth Imaging Optical Coherence Tomography and Thin-Slice Computed Tomography: 2 Clinical Cases
Authors: Suzuki Hiroko , Obata Ryo , Tan Xue , Terao Ryo , Azuma Keiko , Inoue Tatsuya , Suzuki Shigenobu
Published: June 2020

Background: Choroidal osteoma is a rare, benign, ossifying intraocular tumor of unknown etiology. While patients with choroidal osteoma usually show distinct large yellowish subretinal lesions, some could have small lesions, making the differential diagnosis difficult. We experienced 2 cases of small symptomatic unilateral osteoma approximately 1.0-mm disc diameter in size. Methods: Retrospective medical charts of 2 patients with small symptomatic unilateral osteoma were reviewed. Fundus examination, spectral domain enhanced-depth optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT), fluorescein angiography, indocyanine green angiography, B-scan ultrasonography (USG), and X-ray computed tomography (CT) were performed. Results: Case 1: a case of a 41-year-old male. Fundus examination revealed a yellowish-white lesion of 1.0-mm disc diameter in size. EDI-OCT of the lesion shows sub-RPE elevation. B-scan USG was not definite for diagnosis. Thin-slice (2 mm) CT scan revealed a choroidal osteoma. Case 2: a case of a 70-year-old male. Fundus examination revealed a yellowish-white lesion of 0.9-mm disc diameter. EDI-OCT showed sub-RPE elevation without serous retinal detachment and horizontal lamellar-like structure within the lesion. B-scan USG suggested acoustic shadowing, but it was unclear. The thin-slice CT scan confirmed bony tissue at the lesion. Conclusions: We report 2 cases of small choroidal osteoma. Diagnosis of small yellowish subretinal lesions is sometimes difficult. Characteristic findings with EDI-OCT may sometimes suggest this disease, and thin-slice CT could help to diagnose choroidal osteoma.
Weathering the Cytokine Storm in COVID-19: Therapeutic Implications
Authors: Iannaccone Giulia , Scacciavillani Roberto , Del Buono Marco Giuseppe , Camilli Massimiliano , Ronco Claudio , Lavie Carl J. , Abbate Antonio , Crea Filippo , Massetti Massimo , Aspromonte Nadia
Published: June 2020

Background: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) recently emerged in Wuhan, Hubei-China, as responsible for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and then spread rapidly worldwide. While most individuals remain asymptomatic or develop only mild symptoms, approximately 5% develop severe forms of COVID-19 characterized by acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and multiple-organ failure (MOF) that usually require intensive-care support and often yield a poor prognosis. Summary: The pathophysiology of COVID-19 is far from being completely understood, and the lack of effective treatments leads to a sense of urgency to develop new therapeutic strategies based on pathophysiological assumptions. The exaggerated cytokine release in response to viral infection, a condition known as cytokine release syndrome (CRS) or cytokine storm, is emerging as the mechanism leading to ARDS and MOF in COVID-19, thus endorsing the hypothesis that properly timed anti-inflammatory therapeutic strategies could improve patients’ clinical outcomes and prognosis. Key Messages: The objective of this article is to explore and comment on the potential role of the promising immunomodulatory therapies using pharmacological and nonpharmacological approaches to overcome the dysregulated proinflammatory response in COVID-19.
Rediscovery and redescription of the rare, critically endangered snake Emmochliophis miops (Serpentes: Colubridae), with comments on its natural history, distribution, and phylogenetic relationships
Authors: Vera-Pérez Luis Enrique , Campbell Patrick D. , Montingelli Giovanna Gondim
Published: June 2020

Rediscovery and redescription of the rare, critically endangered snake Emmochliophis miops (Serpentes: Colubridae), with comments on its natural history, distribution, and phylogenetic relationships. The description of Emmochliophis miops is based on a single specimen from the Andean slopes of northwest Ecuador collected in 1897. The species had not been collected again until October 2017, when two individuals were found on the western slopes of the Cordillera Occidental of Colombia; this rediscovery is the first record of this species in this country. Herein, the holotype and the new specimens are examined, and a new diagnosis and description of E. miops are provided. Important data about the natural history and conservation status of the species, and comments on the systematic relationships of Diaphorolepis, Emmochliophis and Synophis are presented.
Reassessment of the advertisement call of topotypic Scinax squalirostris (Anura: Hylidae), with an acoustic evaluation of its occurrence in the Serra da Mantiqueira, southeastern Brazil
Authors: Giaretta Ariovaldo Antonio , Lopes André Gomes , Bang Davi Lee
Published: June 2020

Reassessment of the advertisement call of topotypic Scinax squalirostris (Anura: Hylidae), with an acoustic evaluation of its occurrence in the Serra da Mantiqueira, southeastern Brazil. Scinax squalirostris (Lutz, 1925) is thought to occur along a broad range in South America. The values reported for calls of topotypes differ substantially among studies. Because vocalizations often play a key role in uncovering cryptic diversity, the call of S. squalirostris is herein redescribed based on a new sample of topotypes. The call of a population from Poços de Caldas, Minas Gerais state, is also described. Topotypic advertisement calls have a dominant frequency between 3970 and 4125 Hz; 13–15 notes emitted at a rate of 24–27/s; call rate of 67/min and duration of 0.52–0.61 s; mid-call notes having 6 or 7 well-defined pulses, and an intra-note pulse rate of 223–266/s. Calls of the Poços de Caldas population have dominant frequency between 4083 and 4358 Hz; 15–18 notes emitted at a rate of 32–34/s; call rate of 64/min and duration of 0.46–0.56 s; mid-call notes having 6 or 8 well-defined pulses, and an intra-note pulse rate of 252–312/s. The advertisement calls of these populations have some differences with each other, and are promptly distinguished from calls of morphologically similar species. Our data to topotypes are inconsistent with some previously reported. A more detailed study of the population from Poços de Caldas is required, and more marked differences may be found in populations more distant from type locality of S. squalirostris.
Acoustics suggests hidden diversity in Scinax garbei (Anura: Hylidae)
Authors: Lopes André Gomes , Bang Davi Lee , Marinho Pedro , Giaretta Ariovaldo Antonio
Published: June 2020

Acoustics suggests hidden diversity in Scinax garbei (Anura: Hylidae). Scinax garbei is a treefrog species thought to be widely distributed across forest habitats of the Amazon Basin, occurring in Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and Brazil. However, the morphological, acoustic and molecular characters of this species vary across its distribution. In view of this variation, the present study re-analyzes published advertisement calls and analyses new call data of nine populations of S. garbei from five countries, aiming to assess acoustic divergence. In addition, the territorial call of the species is described for the first time. Based on multivariate analyses of advertisement call data, there are three groups of populations with distinct calls, referred to herein as S. garbei Brazil, Northwestern, and Southwestern. Scinax garbei Northwestern is distinguished from S. garbei Southwestern by temporal call traits, whereas S. garbei Brazil differs from the other two groups based on both temporal and spectral traits. These results indicate that S. garbei may represent a complex of up to three species, thereby highlighting the need for a thorough taxonomic revision of this species.
Association Between the European Society of Cardiology/European Society of Hypertension Heart Rate Thresholds for Cardiovascular Risk and Neuroadrenergic Markers
Authors: Grassi Guido , Quarti-Trevano Fosca , Seravalle Gino , Dell’Oro Raffaella , Facchetti Rita , Mancia Giuseppe
Published: June 2020

The recent European Society of Cardiology/European Society of Hypertension hypertension guidelines identify resting heart rate (HR) values >80 bpm as predictors of cardiovascular risk, with the unproven assumption that this might reflect the presence of a sympathetic overdrive. In the present study, we tested this hypothesis throughout the use of direct and indirect sympathetic markers. In 193 untreated moderate essential hypertensives aged 50.4±0.6 years (mean±SEM), we measured clinic and ambulatory blood pressure and corresponding HR, venous plasma norepinephrine (high performance liquid chromatography), and muscle sympathetic nerve traffic (microneurography). We then subdivided the study population into 2 groups according to HR < or >80 bpm. Eighty-four patients displayed resting HR >80 bpm, which was this cutoff value in the remaining 109 patients, the 2 groups showing superimposable age, and sex distribution. Clinic and ambulatory blood pressure were similar in the 2 groups, whereas left ventricular mass index was significantly greater in the group with HR >80 bpm. Muscle sympathetic nerve traffic values were also significantly greater in this latter group (72.77±0.9 versus vs 36.83±1.3 bursts/min,
P
<0.0001); this being the case also for norepinephrine (293.0±8.7 versus 254.1±8.9 pg/mL,
P
<0.002). In the whole population, there was a significant direct relationship between muscle sympathetic nerve traffic, norepinephrine, left ventricular mass index, and HR values. Similar results were obtained when 24-hour HR values were analyzed. Thus patients with hypertension displaying HR >80 bpm are characterized by a marked sympathetic overdrive, particularly when direct adrenergic markers are used. This finding suggests that cardiac and peripheral sympathetic activation are involved in the increased cardiovascular risk detected in this group of patients.
Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Advanced Fibrosis in US Adults Across Blood Pressure Categories
Authors: Ciardullo Stefano , Monti Tommaso , Sala Isabella , Grassi Guido , Mancia Giuseppe , Perseghin Gianluca
Published: June 2020

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is common in patients with hypertension but controversy exists as to whether screening for this condition should be performed. Here, we evaluate the prevalence of NAFLD and advanced fibrosis in US adults across blood pressure categories and estimate the number of patients who require referral to hepatologists. In this cross-sectional analysis of 11 489 adults from the 2005 to 2016 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, participants were segregated as having optimal, normal, high normal, and elevated blood pressure according to the 2018 European Society of Cardiology/Hypertension guidelines. NAFLD was defined using the US fatty liver index, whereas fibrosis was assessed using the NAFLD fibrosis score, fibrosis-4, and Hepamet Fibrosis Score. NAFLD prevalence increased progressively from optimal (16.5%) to normal (34.5%), high normal (39.9%), and elevated blood pressure (50.2%,
P
<0.001). Patients with hypertension also showed a higher prevalence of advanced fibrosis (3%–9%, based on the specific biomarker used). When the screening flowchart from the European Association for the Study of the Liver, Diabetes, and Obesity guidelines was applied to patients with hypertension, 26.7% needed referral to hepatologists. Risk of referral was higher in Hispanic patients and those with diabetes mellitus, heart failure, and an altered urinary albumin excretion. NAFLD is highly prevalent in US adults with hypertension and a quarter of them would need to be referred to hepatologists because of a high risk of advanced fibrosis. While future studies on cost-effectiveness are needed, screening for NAFLD in these patients could be beneficial.
Secular Reasons for Confessional Religious Education in Public Schools
Authors: Löffler Winfried
Published: June 2020

The cultural importance of religion and its ambiguous potential effects on the stability of liberal democracy and the rule of law recommend including information about religions in public school curricula. In certain contexts, there are even good secular reasons to have this done by teachers approved by the religious communities for their respective groups of pupils, as is being practiced in various European states (with a possibility of opting out, with ethics as a substitute subject in some schools). Is this practice compatible with the religious neutrality of states? An illustrative analysis shows how suitable criteria for the admission of religious groups to offering religious education can block the objection of undue preference. Like any solution in this field, it is not immune to theoretical and practical problems.
Judaism, Pluralism & Public Reason
Authors: Jacobs Jonathan A.
Published: June 2020

Central values of Judaism and the historical experience of Jews are sources of strong Jewish support for democracy, especially in the United States, where Jews did not have to wait for citizenship and rights to be conferred on them – and possibly withdrawn. Judaism is strongly committed to the political order in the United States and to the pluralistic, dynamic civil society it helps make possible. Jews have the freedoms that others have, and those freedoms resonate with fundamental Jewish values in ways that matter even to nonpracticing Jews. Moreover, there are reasons to regard the Constitution's nonestablishment neutrality as comparing very favorably with a notion of public reason as a political approach to the question of state and church relations. Neutrality does not impose upon or require bracketing of individuals' constitutive commitments and their conceptions of what matters most integrally to them. Public reason is vulnerable to that troubling possibility.