bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Public Health Messages Associated with Low UV Index Values Need Reconsideration
Authors: Lehmann Maria , Pfahlberg Annette B. , Sandmann Henner , Uter Wolfgang , Gefeller Olaf
Published: June 2019

Overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the main modifiable risk factor for skin cancer. The Global Solar Ultraviolet Index (UVI) was introduced as a tool to visualize the intensity of UV radiation on a certain day, which should enable and encourage people to take appropriate protective measures. The ‘low’ exposure category of the UVI, defined by a rounded UVI value of 0, 1 or 2, was linked to the health message ‘No protection required’ by the World Health Organization and partner organizations. However, published evidence corroborating this advice is not available. To evaluate the erythemal risk of low UVI days, we analyzed 14,431 daily time series of ambient erythemal irradiance data measured at nine stations of the German solar UV monitoring network during the years 2007–2016. We analyzed the proportion of days in the sample for which ambient erythemal doses calculated for various time intervals exceed average minimal erythemal doses (MEDs) of the Fitzpatrick skin phototypes I–VI to assess the potential for erythema arising from sun exposure on days with low UVI values. Additionally, we calculated for each day the minimum exposure duration needed to receive one MED. Our results indicate that on days with a UVI value of 0, risk of erythema is indeed negligible. Conversely, the abovementioned health message appears misleading when melano-compromised individuals (skin type I and II) spend more than 1.5 hours outdoors on days with a UVI value of 2. Under rare circumstances of prolonged exposure, MEDs of the two most sensitive skin types can also be exceeded even on days with a UVI value of 1. Hence, current WHO guidance for sun protection on days with low UVI values needs reconsideration.
Health-Related Quality of Life in Pediatric Patients with Leukemia in Singapore: A Cross-Sectional Pilot Study
Authors: Choo Carol C. , Chew Peter K.H. , Tan Pinhong , Choo Jessica Q. , Choo Amanda M.H. , Ho Roger C. , Quah Thuan Chong
Published: June 2019

There has been a paradigm shift in health service delivery to a more holistic approach, which considers Quality of Life (QoL) and overall functioning. Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) is a multidimensional construct that encompasses physical functioning as well as psychosocial aspects of emotional and social functioning. This study explored factors related to HRQoL in Asian pediatric patients with leukemia in Singapore. The available variables included: age, treatment duration, household income, gender, ethnicity, religion, diagnosis, and phase of treatment. It is hypothesized that the relationships will be significant. In the current study, there were 60 patients (60% males) with leukemia; their ages ranged from 1 to 21 years (Mean = 8.03, Standard Deviation = 4.55). The hypothesis was partially supported. Age had a significant positive relationship with physical functioning, r(60) = 0.28, p < 0.05, physical health, r(60) = 0.28, p < 0.05, and the total HRQoL score, r(60) = 0.29, p < 0.05. Treatment duration had a positive relationship with school functioning, r(60) = 0.28, p < 0.05. All other correlations were statistically non-significant. The effects of the available psychosocial variables of gender, ethnicity, and religion were examined on scores from the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL). Ethnicity had a significant effect on social functioning, U = 292.00, p < 0.05, r = 0.3 (medium effect size). Specifically, Chinese (Median = 85.00, n = 33) had significantly higher scores on social functioning than others (Median = 70.00, n = 27). The remaining comparisons were statistically non-significant. The current findings added to QoL research, and provided an impetus for more research in the area of HRQoL for children with leukemia in Singapore.
Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviors of Parents towards Recommended Adult Vaccinations: An Explanatory Survey in the Geographic Area of Naples, Italy
Authors: Napolitano Francesco , Della Polla Giorgia , Angelillo Italo Francesco
Published: June 2019

The purposes of this study were to explore the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors towards the recommended vaccinations for adults between 19–64 years of age and the associated factors among parents. The survey was conducted from October to December 2018 among a sample of parents randomly selected from five preschools and primary, secondary, and high schools in the geographic area of Naples, Italy. The mean age of participants was 45.2 years (range 19–71). Only 16% of the parents knew all vaccinations recommended to adults between 19–64 years of age. Those being healthcare professionals, having a chronic condition, having received information about vaccinations from physicians, and having a lower educational level were more likely to know the vaccinations recommended to adults between 19–64 years of age. Female participants, those who had received information about vaccinations from physicians, and those who had a lower number of children were more likely to have a positive attitude toward the usefulness of the administration of vaccinations recommended to adults between 19–64 years of age. Among unvaccinated respondents, more than half reported a positive attitude toward willingness to receive a recommended vaccination. This positive attitude was significantly higher among those who considered vaccinations as being useful and among who had received information from physicians. Only 16.9% self-reported to have received at least one vaccination recommended to adults between 19–64 years of age. Those who were healthcare professionals, who had at least one chronic condition, and who considered the administration of the vaccinations as being useful were more likely to have received at least one recommended vaccination. Greater efforts by policy makers and healthcare providers are needed to increase parents’ knowledge on recommended vaccines, and it is also crucial that healthcare providers have a high knowledge and favorable attitudes in order to increase vaccine coverage.
Association between the First Occurrence of Asthma and Residential Greenness in Children and Teenagers in Taiwan
Authors: Hsieh Chia-Jung , Yu Pei-Ying , Tai Chun-Ju , Jan Rong-Hwa , Wen Tzai-Hung , Lin Shyang-Woei , Tseng Chun-Chieh
Published: June 2019

Green spaces have benefits but may also increase the risk of allergic disease. This study examined the association between the first occurrence of asthma and greenness exposure in children and teenagers. We conducted a 1:1 matched case-control study matched by sex, age, and the first diagnosis year with 7040 eligible subjects from a systematic sampling cohort database in Taiwan from 2001 to 2013. A normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) value ≥0.4 was used as the criterion to determine the green space. The green cover images were then transformed to the green coverage rate in the township surrounding the residential areas of the asthma and control subjects. Conditional logistic regression analyses demonstrated that a significantly increased risk of asthma in preschool children was associated with the surrounding greenness after adjusting for urbanization level, frequency of healthcare provider visits, mean township family income, CO, NOx, and PM2.5. The risk of asthma occurrence increased significantly with increasing greenness exposure (p-trend < 0.05). Nevertheless, exposure to the highest greenness levels (81–100%) was not associated with a significantly higher risk of asthma occurrence than was exposure to the lowest values (0–20%) of greenness. This study suggests that green space design should consider more effective methods of reducing the allergy impact.
A Scoping Review Mapping Research on Green Space and Associated Mental Health Benefits
Authors: Wendelboe-Nelson Charlotte , Kelly Sarah , Kennedy Marion , Cherrie John
Published: June 2019

Background: There is a growing interest in research investigating the association between green space (GS) and mental health and wellbeing (HWB), in order to understand the underlying mechanisms. Accordingly, there is a need to map the literature and create an overview of the research. Methods: A scoping review approach was used to map literature on GS, including context and co-exposures (the GS exposome), and their associations with mental HWB. The review considers mental HWB definitions and measurements and how GS is characterized. Furthermore, the review aims to identify knowledge gaps and make recommendations for future research. Results: We identified a great diversity in study designs, definitions, outcome measures, consideration of the totality of the GS exposome, and reporting of results. Around 70% of the 263 reviewed studies reported a positive association between some aspect of GS and HWB. However, there is a limited amount of research using randomized controlled crossover trails (RCTs) and mixed methods and an abundance of qualitative subjective research. Conclusions: The discords between study designs, definitions, and the reporting of results makes it difficult to aggregate the evidence and identify any potential causal mechanisms. We propose key points to consider when defining and quantifying GS and make recommendations for reporting on research investigating GS and mental HWB. This review highlights a need for large well-designed RCTs that reliably measure the GS exposome in relation to mental HWB.
Impacts of Financial Market Shock on Bank Asset Allocation from the Perspective of Financial Characteristics of Banks
Authors: Huang Kun , Yao Qiuge , Li Chong
Published: June 2019

Given ongoing financial disintermediation and the need for central banks to establish interest rate corridors, commercial banks have increasingly enriched their asset allocation choices, forming an allocation pattern that combines traditional credit assets (loans) and financial assets (interbank and securities investment). Due to the long-standing dual interest rate system in China, the yields of credit assets and financial assets have differed, which means the latter has greater volatility. Using the quarterly panel data of 23 listed commercial banks in China from 2002 to 2017, the empirical results of this paper show that the fluctuation of the return rate of the two types of assets will affect the asset allocation of banks. Specifically, on the one hand, when the price of financial assets falls, which leads to the narrowing of the credit spread between the two types of assets, banks reduce transaction demand to prevent loss and reduce their holdings of financial assets, thus increasing the ratio of their credit assets to financial assets. On the other hand, rising benchmark lending rates leads to the increase in the credit financing cost of demanders, reducing the willingness of demanders to lend, forcing the demander to obtain funds through other channels. This results in the decrease in the ratio of credit assets to financial assets. Furthermore, the financial characteristics of banks also influence the dynamic adjustment range of asset allocation. That is, the lower the reserve ratio and capital adequacy ratio, the smaller the impact of financial asset yield volatility on bank asset allocation.
New Insights into the Role of Polybromo-1 in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Mota Sara T. S. , Vecchi Lara , Zóia Mariana A. P. , Oliveira Fabrícia M. , Alves Douglas A. , Dornelas Bruno C. , Bezerra Stephania M. , Andrade Victor P. , Maia Yara C. P. , Neves Adriana F. , Goulart Luiz Ricardo , Araújo Thaise G.
Published: June 2019

The human protein Polybromo-1 (PBMR1/BAF180) is a component of the SWI/SNF chromatin-remodeling complex that has been reported to be deregulated in tumors. However, its role in prostate cancer (PCa) is largely unknown. In this study, we described the PBRM1 transcriptional levels and the protein expression/localization in tissues of PCa patients and in prostatic cell lines. Increased PBRM1 mRNA levels were found in PCa samples, when compared to benign disease, and were correlated with higher Gleason score. We also verified that only the nuclear localization of PBRM1 protein is correlated with a more aggressive disease and high Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) levels in tissue microarrays. Intriguing expression patterns of mRNA and protein were identified in the cell lines. Although PBRM1 protein was restricted to the nuclei, in tumor cell lines in non-neoplastic cells, it was also present in vesicular-like structures that were dispersed within the cytoplasm. We knocked-down PBRM1 in the castration-resistant PCa (CRPC) cell line PC-3 and we verified that PBRM1 promotes the expression of several markers of aggressiveness, including EpCAM, TGF-β, and N-Cadherin. Therefore, our data supported the hypothesis that PBRM1 displays a pivotal role in the promotion and maintenance of the malignant behavior of PCa, especially in CRPC.
Correlation of the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor with FSHR in Ovarian Cancer Patients
Authors: Deuster Eileen , Mayr Doris , Hester Anna , Kolben Thomas , Zeder-Göß Christine , Burges Alexander , Mahner Sven , Jeschke Udo , Trillsch Fabian , Czogalla Bastian
Published: June 2019

Expression of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) has been described in various tumor entities from different organs. However, its role in ovarian cancer has not been thoroughly investigated. We aimed to elucidate the prognostic impact of AhR, its correlation with the follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR), and their functional role in ovarian cancer. By immunohistochemistry, AhR staining was analyzed in a subset of 156 samples of ovarian cancer patients. AhR staining was assessed in the nucleus and the cytoplasm using the semi-quantitative immunoreactive score (IRS), and the scores were grouped into high- and low-level expression. AhR expression was detected in all histological subtypes, with clear cell ovarian cancer displaying the highest staining intensity. Low cytoplasmic expression of AhR was associated with longer overall survival (median 183.46 vs. 85.07 months; p = 0.021). We found a positive correlation between AhR and FSHR (p = 0.005). Ovarian cancer patients with high cytoplasmic AhR and concurrent FSHR expression had the worst outcome (median 69.72 vs. 43.32 months; p = 0.043). Consequently, low cytoplasmic AhR expression seems to be associated with improved survival in ovarian cancer patients. Our data suggest that AhR and FSHR levels correlate with each other, and their concurrent expression was observed in ovarian cancer patients with the worst outcome. Further investigation of the interaction of both receptors and their functional role might better predict the impact of endocrine therapy in ovarian cancer.
Metal-Biosurfactant Complexes Characterization: Binding, Self-Assembly and Interaction with Bovine Serum Albumin
Authors: Janek Tomasz , Rodrigues Lígia R. , Gudiña Eduardo J. , Czyżnikowska Żaneta
Published: June 2019

Studies on the specific and nonspecific interactions of biosurfactants with proteins are broadly relevant given the potential applications of biosurfactant/protein systems in pharmaceutics and cosmetics. The aim of this study was to evaluate the interactions of divalent counterions with the biomolecular anionic biosurfactant surfactin-C15 through molecular modeling, surface tension and dynamic light scattering (DLS), with a specific focus on its effects on biotherapeutic formulations. The conformational analysis based on a semi-empirical approach revealed that Cu2+ ions can be coordinated by three amide nitrogens belonging to the surfactin-C15 cycle and one oxygen atom of the aspartic acid from the side chain of the lipopeptide. Backbone oxygen atoms mainly involve Zn2+, Ca2+ and Mg2+. Subsequently, the interactions between metal-coordinated lipopeptide complexes and bovine serum albumin (BSA) were extensively investigated by fluorescence spectroscopy and molecular docking analysis. Fluorescence results showed that metal-lipopeptide complexes interact with BSA through a static quenching mechanism. Molecular docking results indicate that the metal-lipopeptide complexes are stabilized by hydrogen bonding and van der Waals forces. The biosurfactant-protein interaction properties herein described are of significance for metal-based drug discovery hypothesizing that the association of divalent metal ions with surfactin allows its interaction with bacteria, fungi and cancer cell membranes with effects that are similar to those of the cationic peptide antibiotics.
Safety and Efficacy Assessment of Isoflavones from Pueraria (Kudzu) Flower Extract in Ovariectomised Mice: A Comparison with Soy Isoflavones
Authors: Tousen Yuko , Takebayashi Jun , Kondo Takashi , Fuchino Hiroyuki , Kawano Noriaki , Inui Takayuki , Yoshimatsu Kayo , Kawahara Nobuo , Ishimi Yoshiko
Published: June 2019

Numerous Foods with Function Claims that contain the extract of Pueraria flower (kudzu) isoflavones (PFI) are available in the Japanese market. These are labelled with function claims of reducing visceral fat. However, these foods have not undergone proper safety assessment such as the evaluation of their oestrogenic activity and effects on drug-metabolising enzymes (cytochrome P-450: CYP) in the liver. This study evaluated the estrogenic effect and the hepatic CYP activity and mRNA expression in normal female mice as a safety assessment of PFI (Experiment 1). In addition, the bone mineral density and visceral fat weight in ovariectomised mice (OVX) compared to soy isoflavones (SI) was evaluated to assess the efficacy of PFI (Experiment 2). OVX control fed a control diet, OVX fed a PFI diet (the recommended human intake of PFI), OVX fed a PFI20 diet (20- times the recommended PFI), OVX fed an SI diet (the recommended human intake of SI), and OVX fed an SI20 diet (20 -times the recommended intake of SI) for 28 days in Experiment 2. Body, liver, and visceral fat weights were not affected by the PFI, PFI20, SI, or SI20 diets. The hepatic CYP1A and CYP3A activities were elevated by the SI20 treatment. Ovariectomy-induced bone loss was inhibited by the SI20 treatment, but not by the PFI20 treatment. These results suggest that (1) PFI intake in human doses had no oestrogenic properties and did not affect CYP activity in the liver; (2) there was no evidence that PFI affects the amount of visceral fat in OVX mice.
Metabolomics Studies on Cytoplasmic Male Sterility during Flower Bud Development in Soybean
Authors: Ding Xianlong , Wang Xuan , Li Qiang , Yu Lifeng , Song Qijian , Gai Junyi , Yang Shouping
Published: June 2019

Abnormal reactive oxygen species (ROS) may mediate cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS). To observe the effect of ROS on soybean CMS, metabolite content and antioxidant enzyme activity in the flower buds between soybean N8855-derived CMS line and its maintainer were compared. Of the 612 metabolites identified, a total of 74 metabolites were significantly differentiated in flower buds between CMS line and its maintainer. The differential metabolites involved 32 differential flavonoids, 13 differential phenolamides, and 1 differential oxidized glutathione (GSSG) belonging to a non-enzymatic ROS scavenging system. We observed lower levels of flavonoids and antioxidant enzyme activities in flower buds of the CMS line than in its maintainer. Our results suggest that deficiencies of enzymatic and non-enzymatic ROS scavenging systems in soybean CMS line cannot eliminate ROS in anthers effectively, excessive accumulation of ROS triggered programmed cell death and ultimately resulted in pollen abortion of soybean CMS line.
Flutter Analysis of a Transonic Steam Turbine Blade with Frequency and Time-Domain Solvers
Authors: Frey Christian , Ashcroft Graham , Kersken Hans-Peter , Schlüß Daniel
Published: June 2019

The aim of this study was to assess the capabilities of different simulation approaches to predict the flutter stability of a steam turbine rotor. The focus here was on linear and nonlinear frequency domain solvers in combination with the energy method, which is widely used for the prediction of flutter onset. Whereas a GMRES solver was used for the linear problem, the nonlinear methods employed a time-marching procedure. The solvers were applied to the flutter analysis of the first rotor bending mode of the open Durham Steam Turbine test case. This test case is representative of the last stage of modern industrial steam turbines. We compared our results to those published by other researchers in terms of aerodynamic damping and local work per cycle coefficients. Time-domain, harmonic balance, and time-linearised methods were compared to each other in terms of CPU efficiency and accuracy.
Women with Metabolic Syndrome and General Obesity Are at a Higher Risk for Significant Hyperuricemia Compared to Men
Authors: Kim In Young , Han Kyung-Do , Kim Da Hye , Eun Yeonghee , Cha Hoon-Suk , Koh Eun-Mi , Lee Jaejoon , Kim Hyungjin
Published: June 2019

Hyperuricemia is an emerging potential biomarker for metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its complications. This study aimed to investigate the risk factors of hyperuricemia, particularly, the association of hyperuricemia with MetS and general obesity according to sex. We performed multivariate logistic regression analyses using the 2016 Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data. Hyperuricemia was defined by a serum uric acid level ≥7.0 mg/dL for men and ≥6.0 mg/dL for women. General obesity was based on a body mass index (BMI) ≥25 kg/m2. Among a total of 5591 Korean adult participants, 685 (12.3%) individuals had hyperuricemia. Hyperuricemia was significantly associated with MetS in men (odds ratio (OR): 2.38, 95% CI: 1.84–3.08) and in women (OR: 4.15, 95% CI: 2.75–6.28) after adjustments. General obesity was also independently related to hyperuricemia in both sexes (OR: 2.17, 95% CI: 1.76–2.68 in men, OR: 3.80, 95% CI: 2.82–5.12 in women). In subgroup analyses, the presence of concomitant MetS and general obesity posed a strikingly higher risk for hyperuricemia among women (OR: 7.24, 95% CI: 4.56–11.50) when compared to men (OR: 2.90, 95% CI: 2.12–3.96). More attention should be paid to the increased risk of hyperuricemia for females with both MetS and general obesity.
A Multiscale Modelling Approach for Estimating the Effect of Defects in Unidirectional Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composites
Authors: Antin Kim-Niklas , Laukkanen Anssi , Andersson Tom , Smyl Danny , Vilaça Pedro
Published: June 2019

A multiscale modelling approach was developed in order to estimate the effect of defects on the strength of unidirectional carbon fiber composites. The work encompasses a micromechanics approach, where the known reinforcement and matrix properties are experimentally verified and a 3D finite element model is meshed directly from micrographs. Boundary conditions for loading the micromechanical model are derived from macroscale finite element simulations of the component in question. Using a microscale model based on the actual microstructure, material parameters and load case allows realistic estimation of the effect of a defect. The modelling approach was tested with a unidirectional carbon fiber composite beam, from which the micromechanical model was created and experimentally validated. The effect of porosity was simulated using a resin-rich area in the microstructure and the results were compared to experimental work on samples containing pores.
PSO-BP Neural Network-Based Strain Prediction of Wind Turbine Blades
Authors: Liu Xin , Liu Zheng , Liang Zhongwei , Zhu Shun-Peng , Correia José A. F. O. , De Jesus Abílio M. P.
Published: June 2019

The full-scale static testing of wind turbine blades is an effective means to verify the accuracy and rationality of the blade design, and it is an indispensable part in the blade certification process. In the full-scale static experiments, the strain of the wind turbine blade is related to the applied loads, loading positions, stiffness, deflection, and other factors. At present, researches focus on the analysis of blade failure causes, blade load-bearing capacity, and parameter measurement methods in addition to the correlation analysis between the strain and the applied loads primarily. However, they neglect the loading positions and blade displacements. The correlation among the strain and applied loads, loading positions, displacements, etc. is nonlinear; besides that, the number of design variables is numerous, and thus the calculation and prediction of the blade strain are quite complicated and difficult using traditional numerical methods. Moreover, in full-scale static testing, the number of measuring points and strain gauges are limited, so the test data have insufficient significance to the calibration of the blade design. This paper has performed a study on the new strain prediction method by introducing intelligent algorithms. Back propagation neural network (BPNN) improved by Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) has significant advantages in dealing with non-linear fitting and multi-input parameters. Models based on BPNN improved by PSO (PSO-BPNN) have better robustness and accuracy. Based on the advantages of the neural network in dealing with complex problems, a strain-predictive PSO-BPNN model for full-scale static experiment of a certain wind turbine blade was established. In addition, the strain values for the unmeasured points were predicted. The accuracy of the PSO-BPNN prediction model was verified by comparing with the BPNN model and the simulation test. Both the applicability and usability of strain-predictive neural network models were verified by comparing the prediction results with simulation outcomes. The comparison results show that PSO-BPNN can be utilized to predict the strain of unmeasured points of wind turbine blades during static testing, and this provides more data for characteristic structural parameters calculation.
Influence of the use of External Carbon Fiber Reinforcement on the Flexural Behavior of Prismatic Concrete Test Specimens. An Application for Repairing of Deteriorated Agricultural Structures
Authors: Juan-Valdés Andrés , Rodríguez-Robles Desirée , García-González Julia , Guerra-Romero Manuel Ignacio , Morán-del Pozo Julia Mͣ
Published: June 2019

This manuscript reports a study of the capacity of polymer composites to increase flexural strength in concrete. The polymer composites reinforced with carbon fiber and bonded with epoxy adhesive were used in prismatic test specimens of mass concrete corresponding to two different morphologies. The aim was to simulate the restoration of deteriorating concrete agricultural structures in order to explore the viability of this alternative against replacing them. An increase was found in the strength of the elements tested, with a higher strength being observed in those test specimens presenting a modified geometry.
On Bilateral Contractions
Authors: Chen Chi-Ming , Joonaghany Gholamreza Heidary , Karapınar Erdal , Khojasteh Farshid
Published: June 2019

In this manuscript, we introduce a new type of contraction, bilateral contraction which merges two significant approaches in the fixed point theory: Caristi type contractions and Jaggi type contractions. The principal aim of the main result is to enrich the literature by combining the techniques of the mentioned two celebrated results that belong to Jaggi and Caristi. We consider an example to indicate the validity and genuine nature of the main result.
Tunicate Heparan Sulfate Enriched in 2-Sulfated β-Glucuronic Acid: Structure, Anticoagulant Activity, and Inhibitory Effect on the Binding of Human Colon Adenocarcinoma Cells to Immobilized P-Selectin
Authors: Abreu Wallace , Soares Paulo , Motta Juliana , Kozlowski Eliene , Teixeira Felipe , Soares Mariana , Borsig Lubor , Mourão Paulo , Pavão Mauro
Published: June 2019

Heparin or highly sulfated heparan sulfate (HS) has been described in different invertebrates. In ascidians (Chordata-Tunicata), these glycosaminoglycans occur in intracellular granules of oocyte accessory cells and circulating basophil-like cells, resembling mammalian mast cells and basophils, respectively. HS is also a component of the basement membrane of different ascidian organs. We have analyzed an HS isolated from the internal organs of the ascidian Phallusia nigra, using solution 1H/13C NMR spectroscopy, which allowed us to identify and quantify the monosaccharides found in this glycosaminoglycan. A variety of α-glucosamine units with distinct degrees of sulfation and N-acetylation were revealed. The hexuronic acid units occur both as α-iduronic acid and β-glucuronic acid, with variable sulfation at the 2-position. A peculiar structural aspect of the tunicate HS is the high content of 2-sulfated β-glucuronic acid, which accounts for one-third of the total hexuronic acid units. Another distinct aspect of this HS is the occurrence of high content of N-acetylated α-glucosamine units bearing a sulfate group at position 6. The unique ascidian HS is a potent inhibitor of the binding of human colon adenocarcinoma cells to immobilized P-selectin, being 11-fold more potent than mammalian heparin, but almost ineffective as an anticoagulant. Thus, the components of the HS structure required to inhibit coagulation and binding of tumor cells to P-selectin are distinct. Our results also suggest that the regulation of the pathway involved in the biosynthesis of glycosaminoglycans suffered variations during the evolution of chordates.
Exploring the Aortic Root Diameter and Left Ventricle Size among Lithuanian Athletes
Authors: Žumbakytė-Šermukšnienė Renata , Slapšinskaitė Agnė , Baranauskaitė Miglė , Borkytė Julija , Sederevičiūtė Rasa , Berškienė Kristina
Published: June 2019

Background and objectives: Aortic rupture is known as one of the potential causes of sudden cardiac death in athletes. Nevertheless, adaptation strategies for aortic root dilation in athletes vary. The purpose of this study was to investigate aortic root adaptation to physical workload and to determine if aortic roots and left ventricle sizes are contingent upon the physical workload. Materials and Methods: Echocardiography was applied to 151 subjects to measure the aortic root at aortic valve annulus (AA) and at sinus of Valsalva (VS). 122 were athletes (41 females and 81 males) and 29 were non-athletes (14 females and 15 males). Of the 41 female athletes, 32 were endurance athletes, and 9 were strength athletes. From 81 male athletes, 56 were endurance athletes, and 25 were strength athletes. AA and VS mean values for the body surface area were presented as AA relative index with body surface area (rAA) and VS relative index with body surface area (rVS). Left ventricle (LV) measures included LV end-diastolic diameter (LVEDD), interventricular septum thickness in diastole (IVSTd), LV posterior wall thickness in diastole (LVPWTd), LV mass (LVM), LV mass index, and LV end-diastolic diameter index (LVEDDI). Results: Results indicated that VS was higher in female athletes (28.9 ± 2.36 mm) than in non-athletes (27.19 ± 2.87 mm, p = 0.03). On the other hand, rAA was higher in strength athletes (12.19 ± 1.48 mm/m2) than in endurance athletes (11.12 ± 0.99 mm/m2, p = 0.04). Additionally, rVS and rAA were higher in female strength athletes (17.19 ± 1.78 mm/m2, 12.19 ± 1.48 mm/m2) than female basketball players (15.49 ± 1.08 mm/m2, p = 0.03, 10.75 ± 1.06 mm/m2, p = 0.02). No significant differences regarding aortic root were found between male athletes and non-athletes. Statistically significant positive moderate correlations were found between VS and LVEDD, LVM, IVSTd, LVPWTd, rVS, and LVEDDI parameters in all athletes. Conclusion: The diameter of Valsalva sinus was greater in female athletes compared to non-athletes. The rAA mean value for body surface area was greater in female athletes practising strength sports as compared to their counterparts who were practising endurance sports. The diameter of the aortic root at sinuses positively correlated with the LV size in all athletes.
Evaluation of a Cost-Effective Novel Diagnostic Method for Lumbar Herniated Disc with Knee-Osteoarthritis: A Randomized Sample Study
Authors: Apurba Ganguly
Published: June 2019

The aim of this study was to determine a cost-effective diagnostic method for lumbar herniated disc with knee osteoarthritis (LHD-KOA) based on aberrant outcome measures, levels of biomarkers, and examination of the lower-extremity. Data were separately analyzed for each cohort suffering with LHD-KOA (n = 108; 59.82 ± 7.15 years) and without LHD-KOA (n = 108; 58.81 ± 7.61 years), and findings were confirmed with radiological images. The aberrant-leg-features (bilateral: knee gaps between the short head of biceps femoris and the surface of the bed, diameters of calves and thighs, angles of straight leg raising, knee-flexion and -extension in a supine position) and biochemical parameters (Interleukin-10, Tumor necrosis factor-alpha, C-reactive protein, creatine kinase-muscle, and Aldolase-A), and outcome measures, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities osteoarthritis index (WOMAC), knee-injury osteoarthritis outcomes scale (KOOS), Oswestry disability index (ODI), and body mass index (BMI)for participants with and without LHD-KOA were evaluated with appropriate techniques. All the subjects underwent standardized physical examination and completed a questionnaire. The risk ratios and mean ± standard deviations of biomarkers, anatomical features, and outcome measures of the experimental subjects were highly significant compared to controls (p < 0.0001). Results suggest that monitoring the studied aberrant outcome measures, biomarkers, and lower-anatomical features may be a cost-effective diagnostic tool for LHD-KOA. Further research is recommended for an alternative treatment protocol for LHD-KOA.
Two-dimensional Simulation of Motion of Red Blood Cells with Deterministic Lateral Displacement Devices
Authors: Jiao Yanying , He Yongqing , Jiao Feng
Published: June 2019

Deterministic lateral displacement (DLD) technology has great potential for the separation, enrichment, and sorting of red blood cells (RBCs). This paper presents a numerical simulation of the motion of RBCs using DLD devices with different pillar shapes and gap configurations. We studied the effect of the pillar shape, row shift, and pillar diameter on the performance of RBC separation. The numerical results show that the RBCs enter “displacement mode” under conditions of low row-shift (∆λ < 1.4 µm) and “zigzag mode” with large row shift (∆λ > 1.5 µm). RBCs can pass the pillar array when the size of the pillar (d > 6 µm) is larger than the cell size. We show that these conclusions can be helpful for the design of a reliable DLD microfluidic device for the separation of RBCs.
Chemical Characteristics of Freshwater and Saltwater Natural and Cultured Pearls from Different Bivalves
Authors: Karampelas Stefanos , Mohamed Fatima , Abdulla Hasan , Almahmood Fatema , Flamarzi Latifa , Sangsawong Supharart , Alalawi Abeer
Published: June 2019

The present study applied Laser Ablation-Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) on a large number of natural and cultured pearls from saltwater and freshwater environments, which revealed that freshwater (natural and cultured) pearls contain relatively higher quantities of manganese (Mn) and barium (Ba) and lower sodium (Na), magnesium (Mg) and strontium (Sr) than saltwater (natural and cultured) pearls. A few correlations between the host animal’s species and chemical elements were found; some samples from Pinctada maxima (P. maxima) are the only studied saltwater samples with 55Mn >20 ppmw, while some P. radiata are the only studied saltwater samples with 24Mg <65 ppmw and some of the P. imbricata are the only studied saltwater samples with 137Ba >4.5 ppmw. X-ray luminescence reactions of the studied samples has confirmed a correlation between its yellow-green intensity and manganese content in aragonite, where the higher Mn2+ content, the more intense the yellow-green luminescence becomes. Luminescence intensity in some cases is lower even if manganese increases, either because of pigments or because of manganese self-quenching. X-ray luminescence can be applied in most cases to separate saltwater from freshwater samples; only samples with low manganese content (55Mn <50 ppmw) might be challenging to identify. One of the studied natural freshwater pearls contained vaterite sections which react by turning orange under X-ray due to a different coordination of Mn2+ in vaterite than that in aragonite.
Dietary Protein and Amino Acid Intake: Links to the Maintenance of Cognitive Health
Authors: Glenn Jordan M. , Madero Erica N. , Bott Nick T.
Published: June 2019

With the rapid growth in the aging population, there has been a subsequent increase in the rates of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD). To combat these increases in ADRD, scientists and clinicians have begun to place an increased emphasis on preventative methods to ameliorate disease rates, with a primary focus area on dietary intake. Protein/amino acid intake is a burgeoning area of research as it relates to the prevention of ADRD, and consumption is directly related to a number of disease-related risk factors as such low-muscle mass, sleep, stress, depression, and anxiety. As a result, the role that protein/amino acid intake plays in affecting modifiable risk factors for cognitive decline has provided a robust area for scientific exploration; however, this research is still speculative and specific mechanisms have to be proven. The purpose of this review is to describe the current understanding of protein and amino acids and the preventative roles they play with regard to ADRD, while providing future recommendations for this body of research. Additionally, we will discuss the current recommendations for protein intake and how much protein older adults should consume in order to properly manage their long-term risk for cognitive decline.
Advanced Glycation End-Products Can Activate or Block Bitter Taste Receptors
Authors: Jaggupilli Appalaraju , Howard Ryan , Aluko Rotimi E. , Chelikani Prashen
Published: June 2019

Bitter taste receptors (T2Rs) are expressed in several tissues of the body and are involved in a variety of roles apart from bitter taste perception. Advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) are produced by glycation of amino acids in proteins. There are varying sources of AGEs, including dietary food products, as well as endogenous reactions within our body. Whether these AGEs are T2R ligands remains to be characterized. In this study, we selected two AGEs, namely, glyoxal-derived lysine dimer (GOLD) and carboxymethyllysine (CML), based on their predicted interaction with the well-studied T2R4, and its physiochemical properties. Results showed predicted binding affinities (Kd) for GOLD and CML towards T2R4 in the nM and μM range, respectively. Calcium mobilization assays showed that GOLD inhibited quinine activation of T2R4 with IC50 10.52 ± 4.7 μM, whilst CML was less effective with IC50 32.62 ± 9.5 μM. To characterize whether this antagonism was specific to quinine activated T2R4 or applicable to other T2Rs, we selected T2R14 and T2R20, which are expressed at significant levels in different human tissues. A similar effect of GOLD was observed with T2R14; and in contrast, GOLD and CML activated T2R20 with an EC50 of 79.35 ± 29.16 μM and 65.31 ± 17.79 μM, respectively. In this study, we identified AGEs as novel T2R ligands that caused either activation or inhibition of different T2Rs.
Knowledge, Attitudes, Beliefs and Behaviors Regarding Fruits and Vegetables among Cost-Offset Community-Supported Agriculture (CSA) Applicants, Purchasers, and a Comparison Sample
Authors: Hanson Karla L. , Volpe Leah C. , Kolodinsky Jane , Hwang Grace , Wang Weiwei , Jilcott Pitts Stephanie B. , Sitaker Marilyn , Ammerman Alice S. , Seguin Rebecca A.
Published: June 2019

Community-supported agriculture (CSA) participation has been associated with high fruit and vegetable (FV) consumption, which may be due to better access to FV for CSA purchasers, or to positive knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs (KAB) regarding healthy eating among CSA applicants. The objective of this study was to examine KAB and consumption, in association with application to a cost-offset CSA (CO-CSA) program, and with CO-CSA purchase among applicants. We conducted a cross-sectional survey of CO-CSA applicants and a comparison sample in August 2017. All respondents were English-reading adults with a child 2–12 years old and household income of ≤185% of the federal poverty level. Among CO-CSA applicants, some were CO-CSA purchasers (n = 46) and some were not (n = 18). An online comparison sample met equivalent eligibility criteria, but had not participated in CSA for three years (n = 105). We compared CO-CSA applicants to the comparison sample, and compared purchasers and non-purchaser sub-groups, using Mann-Whitney U tests and chi-square analysis. CO-CSA applicants reported better knowledge, self-efficacy, home habits, and diet than the comparison sample. Among applicants, CO-CSA purchasers and non-purchasers had equivalent KAB, but children in purchaser households had higher FV consumption than in non-purchaser households (4.14 vs. 1.83 cups, p = 0.001). Future research should explore associations between CO-CSA participation and diet using experimental methods.
Clinical Results of Comprehensive Medication Management Services in Primary Care in Belo Horizonte
Authors: Neves Carina de Morais , Nascimento Mariana Martins Gonzaga do , Silva Daniela Álvares Machado , Ramalho-de-Oliveira Djenane
Published: June 2019

The high prevalence of chronic diseases and use of multiple medications identified in Primary Health Care (PHC) suggest the need for the implementation of Comprehensive Medication Management (CMM) services. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical results of CMM services in a Brazilian PHC setting. A quasi-experimental study was performed with patients followed-up for two years (n = 90). Factors associated with the detection of four drug therapy problems (DTP) or more in the initial assessment were evaluated (univariate and multivariate analyses), as well as the clinical impact observed in laboratory parameters (HbA1c, Blood Pressure, LDL- and HDL-covariance analysis). A predominance of women (61.1%), a mean age of 65.5 years, and a prevalence of polypharmacy (87.8%)—use of five or more drugs—were observed. A total of 441 DTP was identified, 252 required interventions with the prescriber, 67.9% of which were accepted and 59.6% were solved. The main DTP were ‘non-adherence’ (28.1%), ‘need for additional drug therapy’ (21.8%), and ‘low dose’ (19.5%). Hypertension was positively associated with the identification of four DTP or more. A statistically significant reduction was detected in all assessed laboratory parameters (p < 0.05). CMM services contributed to the resolution of DTP and improved clinical outcomes.
Analogy in Terms of Identity, Equivalence, Similarity, and Their Cryptomorphs
Authors: Schroeder Marcin J.
Published: June 2019

Analogy belongs to the class of concepts notorious for a variety of definitions generating continuing disputes about their preferred understanding. Analogy is typically defined by or at least associated with similarity, but as long as similarity remains undefined this association does not eliminate ambiguity. In this paper, analogy is considered synonymous with a slightly generalized mathematical concept of similarity which under the name of tolerance relation has been the subject of extensive studies over several decades. In this approach, analogy can be mathematically formalized in terms of the sequence of binary relations of increased generality, from the identity, equivalence, tolerance, to weak tolerance relations. Each of these relations has cryptomorphic presentations relevant to the study of analogy. The formalism requires only two assumptions which are satisfied in all of the earlier attempts to formulate adequate definitions which met expectations of the intuitive use of the word analogy in general contexts. The mathematical formalism presented here permits theoretical analysis of analogy in the contrasting comparison with abstraction, showing its higher level of complexity, providing a precise methodology for its study and informing philosophical reflection. Also, arguments are presented for the legitimate expectation that better understanding of analogy can help mathematics in establishing a unified and universal concept of a structure.
Investigation of Impact Strength and Hardness of UHMW Polyethylene Composites Reinforced with Nano-Hydroxyapatite Particles Fabricated by Friction Stir Processing
Authors: Khan Imran , Hussain Ghulam , A Al-Ghamdi Khalid , Umer Rehan
Published: June 2019

The impact strength and surface properties of polymeric materials are of critical importance in various engineering applications. Friction stir processing (FSP) is a novel method for the fabrication of composite materials with superior mechanical properties. The main objective of this study is to investigate the impact strength and Rockwell hardness of UHMW polyethylene composites reinforced with nano-hydroxyapatite particles fabricated through FSP. The spindle speed (ω), tool traverse speed (f), volume fraction (v) of strengthening material and shoulder temperature (T) were key processing parameters. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) indicated that the selected processing parameters were significant. Microscopic investigations unveiled that high levels of (v, f) and low levels of (T, ω) caused agglomeration of the reinforcing particles and induced voids and channels, which consequently reduced the impact strength and hardness of the manufactured composite. However, medium conditions of processing parameters exhibited better distribution of particles with minimum defects, and hence resulted in better mechanical properties. Finally, the models to predict the impact strength and hardness are proposed and verified. Sets of process parameters favorable to maximize the impact strength and Rockwell hardness were worked out, which were believed to increase the impact strength, Rockwell hardness number, and ultimate tensile strength by 27.3%, 5.7%, and 11.2%, respectively.
Yield, Phytochemical Constituents, and Antibacterial Activity of Essential Oils from the Leaves/Twigs, Branches, Branch Wood, and Branch Bark of Sour Orange (Citrus aurantium L.)
Authors: Okla Mohammad K. , Alamri Saud A. , Salem Mohamed Z.M. , Ali Hayssam M. , Behiry Said I. , Nasser Ramadan A. , Alaraidh Ibrahim A. , Al-Ghtani Salem M. , Soufan Walid
Published: June 2019

In the present work, essential oils (EOs) extracted from different parts of sour orange Citrus aurantium (green leaves/twigs, small branches, wooden branches, and branch bark) were studied through gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Furthermore, the EOs in the amounts of 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 µL were studied for their antibacterial activity against three pathogenic bacteria, Agrobacterium tumefaciens, Dickeya solani, and Erwinia amylovora. The main EO compounds in the leaves/twigs were 4-terpineol (22.59%), D-limonene (16.67%), 4-carvomenthenol (12.84%), and linalool (7.82%). In small green branches, they were D-limonene (71.57%), dodecane (4.80%), oleic acid (2.72%), and trans-palmitoleic acid (2.62%), while in branch bark were D-limonene (54.61%), γ-terpinene (6.68%), dodecane (5.73%), and dimethyl anthranilate (3.13%), and in branch wood were D-limonene (38.13%), dimethyl anthranilate (8.13%), (-)-β-fenchol (6.83%), and dodecane (5.31%). At 25 µL, the EO from branches showed the highest activity against A. tumefaciens (IZ value of 17.66 mm), and leaves/twigs EO against D. solani and E. amylovora had an IZ value of 17.33 mm. It could be concluded for the first time that the wood and branch bark of C. aurantium are a source of phytochemicals, with D-limonene being the predominant compound in the EO, with potential antibacterial activities. The compounds identified in all the studied parts might be appropriate for many applications, such as antimicrobial agents, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.