bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Power Aggregation Operators and VIKOR Methods for Complex q-Rung Orthopair Fuzzy Sets and Their Applications
Authors: Garg Harish , Gwak Jeonghwan , Mahmood Tahir , Ali Zeeshan
Published: April 2020

The aim of this paper is to present the novel concept of Complex q-rung orthopair fuzzy set (Cq-ROFS) which is a useful tool to cope with unresolved and complicated information. It is characterized by a complex-valued membership grade and a complex-valued non-membership grade, the distinction of which is that the sum of q-powers of the real parts (imaginary parts) of the membership and non-membership grades is less than or equal to one. To explore the study, we present some basic operational laws, score and accuracy functions and investigate their properties. Further, to aggregate the given information of Cq-ROFS, we present several weighted averaging and geometric power aggregation operators named as complex q-rung orthopair fuzzy (Cq-ROF) power averaging operator, Cq-ROF power geometric operator, Cq-ROF power weighted averaging operator, Cq-ROF power weighted geometric operator, Cq-ROF hybrid averaging operator and Cq-ROF power hybrid geometric operator. Properties and special cases of the proposed approaches are discussed in detail. Moreover, the VIKOR (“VIseKriterijumska Optimizacija I Kompromisno Resenje”) method for Cq-ROFSs is introduced and its aspects discussed. Furthermore, the above mentioned approaches apply to multi-attribute decision-making problems and VIKOR methods, in which experts state their preferences in the Cq-ROF environment to demonstrate the feasibility, reliability and effectiveness of the proposed approaches. Finally, the proposed approach is compared with existing methods through numerical examples.
A Novel High-Throughput Screening Platform Identifies Itaconate Derivatives from Marine Penicillium antarcticum as Inhibitors of Mesenchymal Stem Cell Differentiation
Authors: Marchese Pietro , Mahajan Nipun , O’Connell Enda , Fearnhead Howard , Tuohy Maria , Krawczyk Janusz , Thomas Olivier P. , Barry Frank , Murphy Mary J.
Published: April 2020

Worldwide diffused diseases such as osteoarthritis, atherosclerosis or chronic kidney disease are associated with a tissue calcification process which may involve unexpected local stem cell differentiation. Current pharmacological treatments for such musculoskeletal conditions are weakly effective, sometimes extremely expensive and often absent. The potential to develop new therapies is represented by the discovery of small molecules modulating resident progenitor cell differentiation to prevent aberrant tissue calcification. The marine environment is a rich reserve of compounds with pharmaceutical potential and many novel molecules are isolated from macro and microorganisms annually. The potential of small molecules synthetized by marine filamentous fungi to influence the osteogenic and chondrogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (hMSCs) was investigated using a novel, high-throughput automated screening platform. Metabolites synthetized by the marine-derived fungus Penicillium antarcticum were evaluated on the platform. Itaconic acid derivatives were identified as inhibitors of calcium elaboration into the matrix of osteogenically differentiated hMSCs and also inhibited hMSC chondrogenic differentiation, highlighting their capacity to impair ectopic calcification. Bioactive small molecule discovery is critical to address ectopic tissue calcification and the use of biologically relevant assays to identify naturally occurring metabolites from marine sources represents a strategy that can contribute to this effort.
Atmospheric Pollution and Thyroid Function of Pregnant Women in Athens, Greece: A Pilot Study
Authors: Ilias Ioannis , Kakoulidis Ioannis , Togias Stefanos , Stergiotis Stefanos , Michou Aikaterini , Lekkou Anastasia , Mastrodimou Vasiliki , Pappa Athina , Venaki Evangelia , Koukkou Eftychia
Published: April 2020

Exposure to air pollution and, in particular, to nitrogen dioxide (NO2) or particulate pollutants less than 2.5 μm (PM2.5) or 10 μm (PM10) in diameter has been linked to thyroid (dys)function in pregnant women. We hypothesized that there may be a dose—effect relationship between air pollutants and thyroid function parameters. We retrospectively evaluated thyrotropin (TSH) in 293 women, NO2, PM2.5 and PM10 levels in Athens. All the women were diagnosed with hypothyroidism for the first time during their pregnancy. Exposure to air pollution for each woman was considered according to her place of residence. Statistical analysis of age, pregnancy weight change, and air pollutants versus TSH was performed with ordinary least squares regression (OLS-R) and quantile regression (Q-R). A positive correlation for logTSH and PM2.5(r = +0.13, p = 0.02) was found, using OLS-R. Further analysis with Q-R showed that each incremental unit increase (for the 10th to the 90th response quantile) in PM2.5 increased logTSH(±SE) between +0.029 (0.001) to +0.025 (0.001) mIU/L (p < 0.01). The other parameters and pollutants (PM10 and NO2) had no significant effect on TSH. Our results indeed show a dose—response relationship between PM2.5 and TSH. The mechanisms involved in the pathophysiological effects of atmospheric pollutants, in particular PM2.5, are being investigated.
Assessment of Layer-By-Layer Modified Nanofiltration Membrane Stability in Phosphoric Acid
Authors: Remmen Kirsten , Müller Barbara , Köser Joachim , Wessling Matthias , Wintgens Thomas
Published: April 2020

Nanofiltration (NF) can enable P recovery from waste streams via retaining multivalent impurities from spent pickling acid. However, with the currently available membranes, an economically feasible process is impossible. Layer-by-layer modified NF membranes are a promising solution for the recovery of P from acidic leachate. LbL membranes show a high level of versatility in terms of fine tuning for ion retention, which is necessary to achieve sufficient phosphorus yields. However, the stability of layer-by-layer modified membranes during phosphoric acid (H3PO4) filtration needs to be further investigated. In our study, we show that a polyethersulfone hollow fiber membrane modified with four or eight bi-layers was stable during immersing and filtering of a 15% H3PO4 solution. A sulfonated polyethersulfone (sPES)-based hollow fiber LbL membrane was only stable during filtration. Thus, we show the importance of applying real process conditions to evaluate membranes. Another important aspect is the influence of the high ionic strength of the feed solution on the membrane. We show that a high ionic strength led to a decrease in Mg retention, which could be increased to 85% by adjusting the process parameters.
Dislocation Emission and Crack Dislocation Interactions
Authors: Pande Chandra S. , Goswami Ramasis
Published: April 2020

An understanding of the crack initiation and crack growth in metals spanning the entire spectrum of conventional and advanced has long been a major scientific challenge. It is known that dislocations are involved both in the initiation and propagation of cracks in metals and alloys. In this review, we first describe the experimental observations of dislocation emission from cracks under stress. Then the role played by these dislocations in fatigue and fracture is considered at a fundamental level by considering the interactions of crack and dislocations emitted from the crack. We obtain precise expression for the equilibrium positions of dislocations in an array ahead of crack tip. We estimate important parameters, such as plastic zone size, dislocation free zone and dislocation stress intensity factor for the analysis of crack propagation. Finally, we describe very recent novel and significant results, such as residual stresses and relatively large lattice rotations across a number of grains in front of the crack that accompanies fatigue process.
On Mechanical Properties of Welded Joint in Novel High-Mn Cryogenic Steel in Terms of Microstructural Evolution and Solute Segregation
Authors: Ren Jia-Kuan , Chen Qi-Yuan , Chen Jun , Liu Zhen-Yu
Published: April 2020

There is a growing demand for high-manganese wide heavy steel plate with excellent welding performance for liquefied natural gas (LNG) tank building. However, studies on welding of high-Mn austenitic steel have mainly focused on the applications of automotive industry for a long time. In the present work, a high-Mn cryogenic steel was welded by multi-pass Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), and the microstructural evolution, solute segregation and its effect on the properties of welded joint (WJ) were studied. The yield strength, tensile strength and elongation of the WJ reached 804 MPa, 1027 MPa and 11.2% at −196 °C, respectively. The elongation of WJ was reduced with respect to the BM due to the poorer strain hardening capacity of weld metal (WM) at −196 °C. The WM and coarse-grained heat affected zone (CGHAZ) had the lowest cryogenic impact absorbed energy of ~55 J (at −196 °C). The inhibited twin formation caused by the higher critical resolved shear twinning stress ( τ T ) in the C-Mn-Si segregation band, the inhomogeneous microstructure caused by solute segregation, and the hardened austenite matrix deteriorated the plastic deformation capacity, finally resulting in the decreased cryogenic impact toughness of the CGHAZ. To summarize, the cryogenic toughness and tensile properties of the WJ meet the requirements for LNG tank building.
Microstructure and Tensile Properties of Diffusion Bonded Austenitic Fe-Base Alloys—Before and After Exposure to High Temperature Supercritical-CO2
Authors: Kim Sung Hwan , Cha Ji-Hwan , Jang Changheui , Sah Injin
Published: April 2020

Austenitic Fe-base alloys, SS 316H and Alloy 800HT, were diffusion bonded for use in compact-type heat exchangers in supercritical-carbon dioxide (S-CO2) Brayton cycles. For diffusion bonded 316H, grain boundary migration across the bond-line was observed despite the formation of some Cr-rich carbide, and its tensile properties were similar to those of as-received 316H. However, diffusion bonded Alloy 800HT exhibited severely degraded elongation compared to as-received 800HT due to the formation of continuous Ti-rich carbides along the bond-line. Post-bond heat treatment (PBHT) was found to improve elongation at fracture for diffusion bonded alloys. However, a subsequent corrosion test in S-CO2 at 600 °C (20 MPa) for 1000 h resulted in a loss of elongation. This was much more severe for PBHT-ed 800HT due to the formation of Cr-rich carbides at the bond-line. Meanwhile, it was found that the effect of ageing on loss of elongation during high temperature exposure was greater than that of S-CO2 environment.
Effect of Trace Elements on the Crystallization Temperature Interval and Properties of 5xxx Series Aluminum Alloys
Authors: Li Qianqian , Li Mengjia , Lu Guangxi , Guan Shaokang , Zhang Engui , Xu Cong
Published: April 2020

The influence of alloying elements Er, Zr, Cu, Si and Zn on the crystallization temperature interval, microstructure, mechanical properties and corrosion behavior of Al-Mg-Mn alloy were studied by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD), X-ray diffraction (XRD), tensile testing, electrochemical measurements and nitric acid mass loss test (NAMLT). The results show that the crystallization temperature range of Al-Mg-Mn alloy with addition of Zn decreased 4.7 °C. Cold rolled alloys mainly contain S texture, Copper texture, Brass texture, and Goss texture; the content of the S texture is the highest. With the addition of trace elements, the second phase Al3Er, Al3Zr, Al2CuMg, Mg2Si and MgZn2 can be formed, which can improve the tensile strength and yield strength of Al-Mg-Mn alloy. The addition of the alloying element Zn can also improve the intergranular corrosion resistance of the Al-Mg-Mn alloy.
Micro-Drilling of Sapphire Using Electro Chemical Discharge Machining
Authors: Ho Chao-Ching , Chen Jia-Chang
Published: April 2020

Electrochemical discharge machining (ECDM) refers to a non-traditional machining method for performing effective material removal on non-conductive hard and brittle materials. To increase the ECDM machining efficiency, traditionally, the method of increasing the machining voltage or increasing the electrolyte concentration is used. These methods can also cause overcut reaming of the drilled holes and a rough surface on the heat affected area. In this study, an innovative combinational machining assisted method was proposed and a self-developed coaxial-jet nozzle was used in order to combine two assisted machining methods, tool electrode rotation and coaxial-jet, simultaneously. Accordingly, the electrolyte of the machining area was maintained at the low liquid level and the electrolyte was renewed at the same time, thereby allowing the spark discharge to be concentrated at the contact surface between the front end of the tool electrode and the machined material. In addition, prior to the machining and micro-drilling, the output of the machining energy assisted mechanism was further controlled and reduced. For the study disclosed in this paper, experiments were conducted to use different voltage parameters to machine sapphire specimens of a 640 μm thickness in KOH electrolyte at a concentration of 5 M.
Engineering Improves Enzymatic Synthesis of L-Tryptophan by Tryptophan Synthase from Escherichia coli
Authors: Xu Lisheng , Han Fangkai , Dong Zeng , Wei Zhaojun
Published: April 2020

To improve the thermostability of tryptophan synthase, the molecular modification of tryptophan synthase was carried out by rational molecular engineering. First, B-FITTER software was used to analyze the temperature factor (B-factor) of each amino acid residue in the crystal structure of tryptophan synthase. A key amino acid residue, G395, which adversely affected the thermal stability of the enzyme, was identified, and then, a mutant library was constructed by site-specific saturation mutation. A mutant (G395S) enzyme with significantly improved thermal stability was screened from the saturated mutant library. Error-prone PCR was used to conduct a directed evolution of the mutant enzyme (G395S). Compared with the parent, the mutant enzyme (G395S /A191T) had a Km of 0.21 mM and a catalytic efficiency kcat/Km of 5.38 mM−1∙s−1, which was 4.8 times higher than that of the wild-type strain. The conditions for L-tryptophan synthesis by the mutated enzyme were a L-serine concentration of 50 mmol/L, a reaction temperature of 40 °C, pH of 8, a reaction time of 12 h, and an L-tryptophan yield of 81%. The thermal stability of the enzyme can be improved by using an appropriate rational design strategy to modify the correct site. The catalytic activity of tryptophan synthase was increased by directed evolution.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Urinary Catheter Isolate Enterobacter ludwigii CEB04 with High Biofilm Forming Capacity
Authors: Shafeeq Sulman , Wang Xiaoda , Lünsdorf Heinrich , Brauner Annelie , Römling Ute
Published: April 2020

Enterobacter ludwigii is a fermentative Gram-negative environmental species and accidental human pathogen that belongs to the Enterobacter cloacae complex with the general characteristics of the genus Enterobacter. The clinical isolate E. ludwigii CEB04 was derived from a urinary tract catheter of an individual not suffering from catheter-associated urinary tract infection. The draft genome sequence of the high biofilm forming E. ludwigii CEB04 was determined by PacBio sequencing. The chromosome of E. ludwigii CEB04 is comprised of one contig of 4,892,375 bps containing 4596 predicted protein-coding genes and 120 noncoding RNAs. E. ludwigii CEB04 harbors several antimicrobial resistance markers and has an extended cyclic-di-GMP signaling network compared to Escherichia coli K-12.
Low-Temperature Crystal Chemistry of Hingganite-(Y), from the Wanni Glacier, Switzerland
Authors: Gorelova Liudmila , Vereshchagin Oleg , Cuchet Stéphane , Shilovskikh Vladimir , Pankin Dmitrii
Published: April 2020

Hingganite from the Wanni glacier (Switzerland) was studied by means of energy dispersive and wavelength-dispersive spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and low-temperature single-crystal X-ray diffraction. According to its chemical composition, the investigated mineral should be considered as hingganite-(Y). It showed a relatively high content of Gd, Dy, and Er and had limited content of lighter rare-earth element (REE), which is typical for Alpine gadolinite group minerals. The most intense Raman bands were 116, 186, 268, 328, 423, 541, 584, 725, 923, 983, 3383, and 3541 cm−1. Based on data of low-temperature [(−173)–(+7) °C] in situ single-crystal X-ray diffraction, it was shown that the hingganite-(Y) crystal structure was stable in the studied temperature range and no phase transitions occurred. Hingganite-(Y) demonstrated low volumetric thermal expansion (αV = 9(2) × 10−6 °C−1) and had a high thermal expansion anisotropy up to compression along one of the directions in the layer plane. Such behavior is caused by the shear deformations of its monoclinic unit cell.
Mineralogical and Chemical Characteristics of Coal Ashes from Two High-Sulfur Coal-Fired Power Plants in Wuhai, Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Wei Qiang , Song Weijiao
Published: April 2020

The mineralogical and chemical characteristics of the feed coals and coal combustion products (CCPs) from two power plants (Xilaifeng and Damo) that consume coals from the Wuda Coalfield, Inner Mongolia, were investigated, using XRD, SEM–EDS, XRF, and ICP-MS. The feed coals from Xilaifeng and Damo are both of high ash yield (52.93% and 48.36%, respectively), and medium and high total sulfur content (2.22% and 3.32%, respectively). The minerals in the feed coals are primarily composed of kaolinite, quartz, illite, pyrite, and, to a lesser extent, gypsum and anatase. In addition to the elevated incompatible elements (Nb, Ta, Zr, Hf and Th), Li and Hg are enriched in the feed coals from the Xilaifeng and Damo power plants, respectively. Rare earth elements and yttrium (REY) are more enriched in the feed coals from Xilaifeng (194 μg/g) than those of Damo (93.9 μg/g). The inorganic phases of CCPs from both power plants are mainly composed of amorphous phase, quartz, hematite, illite, and anhydrite. Compared with the feed coals, concentrations of most trace elements in the CCPs are elevated, and they are preferentially enriched in the fly ashes relative to the bottom ashes (*f/b > 1), especially F, As, Sr, Mo, Se, and Hg (*f/b > 2.5). Furthermore, most trace elements (Xilaifeng: excluding Li, Cr, Co, Ni, Rb, Nb and Cs; Damo: excluding Li, V, Cr, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ga, Rb, Cs and Ba) are more enriched in the (fine) fly ashes relative to the laboratory high-temperature coal ashes (HTAs). The REY barely differentiate in either the fly ash or bottom ash from Xilaifeng. In contrast, the REY in the fine and coarse fly ashes from Damo have very similar H-type distribution patterns with negative Ce and slightly positive Y anomalies. Attention should be paid to the enriched toxic elements (including F, As and Hg) in the fly ashes from both power plants due to possible adverse environmental effect.
Polyethylene Glycol6000/carbon Nanodots as Fluorescent Bioimaging Agents
Authors: Fu Chun-Chieh , Wu Chun-Yung , Chien Chih-Ching , Hsu Tai-Hao , Ou Shih-Fu , Chen Shyi-Tien , Wu Chien-Hui , Hsieh Chien-Te , Juang Ruey-Shin , Hsueh Yi-Huang
Published: April 2020

Photoluminescent nanomaterials have immense potential for use in biological systems due to their excellent fluorescent properties and small size. Traditional semiconductor quantum dots are heavy-metal-based and can be highly toxic to living organisms, besides their poor photostability and low biocompatibility. Nano-sized carbon quantum dots and their surface-modified counterparts have shown improved characteristics for imaging purposes. We used 1,3, 6-trinitropyrene (TNP) and polyethylene glycol6000 (PEG6000) in a hydrothermal method to prepare functional polyethylene glycol6000/carbon nanodots (PEG6000/CDs) and analyzed their potential in fluorescent staining of different types of bacteria. Our results demonstrated that PEG6000/CDs stained the cell pole and septa of gram-positive bacteria B. Subtilis and B. thuringiensis but not those of gram-negative bacteria. The optimal concentration of these composite nanodots was approximately 100 ppm and exposure times varied across different bacteria. The PEG6000/CD composite had better photostability and higher resistance to photobleaching than the commercially available FM4-64. They could emit two wavelengths (red and green) when exposed to two different wavelengths. Therefore, they may be applicable as bioimaging molecules. They can also be used for differentiating different types of bacteria owing to their ability to differentially stain gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.
The Adsorption of Methylene Blue on Eco-Friendly Reduced Graphene Oxide
Authors: Arias Arias Fabian , Guevara Marco , Tene Talia , Angamarca Paola , Molina Raul , Valarezo Andrea , Salguero Orlando , Vacacela Gomez Cristian , Arias Melvin , Caputi Lorenzo S.
Published: April 2020

Recently, green-prepared oxidized graphenes have attracted huge interest in water purification and wastewater treatment. Herein, reduced graphene oxide (rGO) was prepared by a scalable and eco-friendly method, and its potential use for the removal of methylene blue (MB) from water systems, was explored. The present work includes the green protocol to produce rGO and respective spectroscopical and morphological characterizations, as well as several kinetics, isotherms, and thermodynamic analyses to successfully demonstrate the adsorption of MB. The pseudo-second-order model was appropriated to describe the adsorption kinetics of MB onto rGO, suggesting an equilibrium time of 30 min. Otherwise, the Langmuir model was more suitable to describe the adsorption isotherms, indicating a maximum adsorption capacity of 121.95 mg g−1 at 298 K. In addition, kinetics and thermodynamic analyses demonstrated that the adsorption of MB onto rGO can be treated as a mixed physisorption–chemisorption process described by H-bonding, electrostatic, and π − π interactions. These results show the potential of green-prepared rGO to remove cationic dyes from wastewater systems.
Effect of β-caryophyllene from Cloves Extract on Helicobacter pylori Eradication in Mouse Model
Authors: Jung Da Hyun , Park Mi Hee , Kim Chul Jin , Lee Jin Young , Keum Chang Yeop , Kim In Seon , Yun Chang-Hyun , Kim Sung-kyu , Kim Won Ho , Lee Yong Chan
Published: April 2020

New antibacterial treatments against Helicobacter pylori are needed as H. pylori is acquiring antibiotic resistance. β-caryophyllene is a natural bicyclic sesquiterpene, with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. This study investigates the effects of H-002119-00-001 from β-caryophyllene on the eradication of H. pylori in a mouse model, and its effects on the inflammation of the gastric mucosa. To evaluate the anti-H.pylori efficacy of β-caryophyllene, a total of 160 mice were divided into eight groups (n = 10 each) and were administered different treatments for 2 and 4 weeks. H. pylori eradication was assessed using a Campylobacter-like organism (CLO) test and H. pylori qPCR of the gastric mucosa. The levels of inflammation of gastric mucosa were assessed using histology and immunostaining. H-002119-00-001 decreased bacterial burden in vitro. When H-002119-00-001 was administered to mice once daily for 2 weeks, cure rates shown by the CLO test were 40.0%, 60.0%, and 70.0% in groups 6, 7, and 8, respectively. H. pylori levels in gastric mucosa decreased dose-dependently after H-002119-00-001 treatment. H-002119-00-001 also reduced levels of inflammation in gastric mucosa. H-002119-00-001 improved inflammation and decreased bacterial burden in H. pylori-infected mouse models. H-002119-00-001 is a promising and effective therapeutic agent for the treatment of H. pylori infection.
Milk Polar Lipids: Underappreciated Lipids with Emerging Health Benefits
Authors: Anto Liya , Warykas Sarah Wen , Torres-Gonzalez Moises , Blesso Christopher N.
Published: April 2020

Milk fat is encased in a polar lipid-containing tri-layer milk fat globule membrane (MFGM), composed of phospholipids (PLs) and sphingolipids (SLs). Milk PLs and SLs comprise about 1% of total milk lipids. The surfactant properties of PLs are important for dairy products; however, dairy products vary considerably in their polar lipid to total lipid content due to the existence of dairy foods with different fat content. Recent basic science and clinical research examining food sources and health effects of milk polar lipids suggest they may beneficially influence dysfunctional lipid metabolism, gut dysbiosis, inflammation, cardiovascular disease, gut health, and neurodevelopment. However, more research is warranted in clinical studies to confirm these effects in humans. Overall, there are a number of potential effects of consuming milk polar lipids, and they should be considered as food matrix factors that may directly confer health benefits and/or impact effects of other dietary lipids, with implications for full-fat vs. reduced-fat dairy.
From Anonymous to Public Enemy: How Does a Mosquito Become a Feared Arbovirus Vector?
Authors: Fontenille Didier , Powell Jeffrey R.
Published: April 2020

The past few decades have seen the emergence of several worldwide arbovirus epidemics (chikungunya, Zika), the expansion or recrudescence of historical arboviruses (dengue, yellow fever), and the modification of the distribution area of major vector mosquitoes such as Aedes aegypti and Ae. albopictus, raising questions about the risk of appearance of new vectors and new epidemics. In this opinion piece, we review the factors that led to the emergence of yellow fever in the Americas, define the conditions for a mosquito to become a vector, analyse the recent example of the new status of Aedes albopictus from neglected mosquito to major vector, and propose some scenarios for the future.
Trends in Antidepressants Use in Spain between 2015 and 2018: Analyses from a Population-Based Registry Study with Reference to Driving
Authors: Gutiérrez-Abejón Eduardo , Herrera-Gómez Francisco , Criado-Espegel Paloma , Álvarez F. Javier
Published: April 2020

Antidepressants are considered driving-impairing medicines (DIM). This is a population-based registry study that shows the trend in the use of antidepressants in Castile and León, Spain, from 2015 to 2018. Data on antidepressant dispensations at pharmacies and the adjusted use of these medicines by the driver population are presented. For the purposes of analysis, population distribution by age and gender has been taken into account, as well as the three Driving Under the Influence of Drugs, alcohol, and medicines (DRUID) categories. Antidepressants were used by 8.56% of the general population and 5.66% of drivers. Antidepressants were used more commonly by females than by males (12.12% vs. 4.87%, χ² = 1325.124, p = 0.001), and users increased as the age increased, even if women who drive used less antidepressants after turning 60 years of age. Chronic use of antidepressants was relevant (8.28%) in the same way as daily use (3.15%). Most of the consumption included SSRIs (4.99%), which are also known as “other antidepressants” (3.71%). Regardless of antidepressants consumed, users took 2.75 ± 1.19 DIMs, which are mainly anxiolytics (58.80%) and opioids (26.43%). Lastly, regarding consumption of antidepressants according to the DRUID classification, category I predominated over categories II and III. Our findings should serve as a starting point for health and traffic authorities to raise awareness of the risk for traffic accidents, especially involving SSRIs.
Fragmentation and Cooperation in the Jihadi International (Sub)System: ‘Islamic State’ vs. Al-Qaeda and Beyond
Authors: Eleftheriadou Marina
Published: April 2020

The article explores the implications the rise of the ‘Islamic State’ (IS) had on the international order and the salafi-jihadi movement. The main argument is that at the height of its activity (2014–2016) IS was a de facto revolutionary state. In this capacity, IS challenged the international order because contrary to revolutionary states in the past it negated the foundations of the Westphalian system. At the same time, the rise of IS had a tremendous impact on the jihadi (sub)system, as it initiated a period of fragmentation and alliance-building. The competition between IS and al-Qaeda for the hegemony of the movement did not revolve around direct fighting as much as efforts to outbid the rival group. One of the main conduits of this competition was the ‘war of bay’as (pledges of allegiance)’, which consisted of competitive oaths of allegiance from local jihadi forces to one of the two groups. In local contexts, the ‘war of bay’as’ increased tensions and factionalism within jihadi groups, as splinter groups decided to side with the new revolutionary foco. The fragmentation of local jihadi groups unfolded along pre-existing cleavages, grievances and resource-related motivations, increasing the levels of violence and complexity in these local conflicts.
Bloodthirsty, or Not, That Is the Question: An Ethnography-Based Discussion of Bhadrakāḷi’s Use of Violence in Popular Worship, Ritual Performing Arts and Narratives in Central Kerala (South India)1
Authors: Pasty-Abdul Wahid Marianne
Published: April 2020

Violence is a characteristic that has somewhat become definitional for the Hindu goddess Kālī. But looking at it through the lens of folk narrative and the popular, devotion-infused and highly personalised opinions of her devotees shows that not only the understanding, but also the acceptance of this violence and the connected anger and bloodthirst that are usually attached to it, as well as the feelings of fear and danger that arise from them on the devotees’ end, are subjects open to discussion. This article, at the juncture between anthropology, performance, and Hindu studies, analyses and compares discourses about her Malayali counterpart, Bhadrakāḷi, drawing simultaneously on various versions of her founding myth of Dārikavadham (‘The Slaying of Dārikan’), ritual routines of her temples in Central Kerala as well as ritual performing arts that are conducted in some of them. The concluding discussion of her alleged thirst for blood and identification of the ’real‘ addressee of blood offerings made to her particularly illustrates how far the negotiation of Bhadrakāḷi’s use of violence and her very definition as violent goddess reaches deep into the worshipper/deity relationship that lies at the heart of popular worship.
A Cluster Set Protocol in the Half Squat Exercise Reduces Mechanical Fatigue and Lactate Concentrations in Comparison with a Traditional Set Configuration
Authors: Varela-Olalla Daniel , Romero-Caballero Alejandro , Del Campo-Vecino Juan , Balsalobre-Fernández Carlos
Published: April 2020

Splitting sets into clusters has been shown to maintain performance during resistance training. This study compared the acute fatigue produced by a traditional (TSC) versus a cluster (CSC) set configuration in the smith machine half squat exercise. Fifteen males performed a single bout of TSC and CSC separated by 72–96 h. In the TSC, participants performed as many repetitions as possible until reaching a 20% drop in barbell velocity (MPV), while in the CSC, they performed the same number of repetitions with 15 seconds inter-repetition rest. Effects of both protocols in MPV, countermovement jump height (CMJ), and blood lactate (BLa) were measured. Significant differences between protocols were found for MPV of the last repetition (0.4 vs 0.5 m/s TSC and CSC) and BLa (6.8 mmol/L vs 3.2 mmol/L TSC and CSC). Significant drop of velocity from the first to the last repetition of the set (19.9%), decrease in CMJ height (35.4 vs 32.6 cm), and increase in BLa (2.1 vs 6.8 mmol/L) pre–post-exercise was observed just for the TSC protocol. The results of the present study showed that CSC reduces the lactate response and mechanical fatigue produced by a single set on the half squat exercise in comparison with TSC.
Molecular Detection of Rickettsia spp. and Coxiella burnetii in Cattle, Water Buffalo, and Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus Ticks in Luzon Island of the Philippines
Authors: Galay Remil L. , Talactac Melbourne R. , Ambita-Salem Bea V. , Chu Dawn Maureen M. , Costa Lali Marie O. dela , Salangsang Cinnamon Mae A. , Caracas Darwin Kyle B. , Generoso Florante H. , Babelonia Jonathan A. , Vergano Joeneil L. , Berana Lena C. , Sandalo Kristina Andrea C. , Divina Billy P. , Alvarez Cherry R. , Mago Emmanuel R. , Andoh Masako , Tanaka Tetsuya
Published: April 2020

Rickettsia and Coxiella burnetii are zoonotic, tick-borne pathogens that can cause febrile illnesses with or without other symptoms in humans, but may cause subclinical infections in animals. There are only a few reports on the occurrence of these pathogens in cattle and water buffalo in Southeast Asia, including the Philippines. In this study, molecular detection of Rickettsia and C. burnetii in the blood and in the Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus ticks of cattle and water buffalo from five provinces in Luzon Island of the Philippines was done. A total of 620 blood samples of cattle and water buffalo and 206 tick samples were collected and subjected to DNA extraction. After successful amplification of control genes, nested PCR was performed to detect gltA of Rickettsia and com1 of C. burnetii. No samples were positive for Rickettsia, while 10 (cattle = 7, water buffaloes = 3), or 1.6% of blood, and five, or 1.8% of tick samples, were C. burnetii-positive. Sequence analysis of the positive amplicons showed 99–100% similarity to reported C. burnetii isolates. This molecular evidence on the occurrence of C. burnetii in Philippine ruminants and cattle ticks and its zoonotic nature should prompt further investigation and surveillance to facilitate its effective control.
Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) Seropositive Camel Handlers in Kenya
Authors: Kiyong’a Alice , Cook Elizabeth , Okba Nisreen , Kivali Velma , Reusken Chantal , Haagmans Bart , Fèvre Eric
Published: April 2020

Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) is a respiratory disease caused by a zoonotic coronavirus (MERS-CoV). Camel handlers, including slaughterhouse workers and herders, are at risk of acquiring MERS-CoV infections. However, there is limited evidence of infections among camel handlers in Africa. The purpose of this study was to determine the presence of antibodies to MERS-CoV in high-risk groups in Kenya. Sera collected from 93 camel handlers, 58 slaughterhouse workers and 35 camel herders, were screened for MERS-CoV antibodies using ELISA and PRNT. We found four seropositive slaughterhouse workers by PRNT. Risk factors amongst the slaughterhouse workers included being the slaughterman (the person who cuts the throat of the camel) and drinking camel blood. Further research is required to understand the epidemiology of MERS-CoV in Africa in relation to occupational risk, with a need for additional studies on the transmission of MERS-CoV from dromedary camels to humans, seroprevalence and associated risk factors.
High Transmission Potential of West Nile Virus Lineage 1 for Cx. pipiens s.l. of Iran
Authors: Bakhshi Hasan , Mousson Laurence , Vazeille Marie , Zakeri Sedigheh , Raz Abbasali , de Lamballerie Xavier , Dinparast-Djadid Navid , Failloux Anna-Bella
Published: April 2020

Vector competence is an important parameter in evaluating whether a species plays a role in transmission of an arbovirus. Although the protocols are similar, interpretation of results is unique given the specific interactions that exist between a mosquito population and a viral genotype. Here, we assessed the infection (IR), dissemination (DR), and transmission (TR) rates of Cx. pipiens s.l., collected from Iran, for West Nile virus (WNV) lineage 1a. We showed that Cx. pipiens s.l. mosquitoes in Iran were susceptible to WNV with IR up to 89.7%, 93.6%, and 83.9% at 7, 14, and 21 days post-infection (dpi) respectively. In addition, DR and TR reached respectively 92.3% and 75.0% at 21 dpi, and the number of viral particles delivered with saliva reached up to 1.33 × 105 particles. Therefore, an unexpected high risk of WNV dissemination in the region where Cx. pipiens s.l. mosquitoes are well established should be considered carefully and surveillance measures implemented accordingly.
Role of Porcine Aminopeptidase N and Sialic Acids in Porcine Coronavirus Infections in Primary Porcine Enterocytes
Authors: Cui Tingting , Theuns Sebastiaan , Xie Jiexiong , Broeck Wim , Nauwynck Hans
Published: April 2020

Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) and transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV) have been reported to use aminopeptidase N (APN) as a cellular receptor. Recently, the role of APN as a receptor for PEDV has been questioned. In our study, the role of APN in PEDV and TGEV infections was studied in primary porcine enterocytes. After seven days of cultivation, 89% of enterocytes presented microvilli and showed a two- to five-fold higher susceptibility to PEDV and TGEV. A significant increase of PEDV and TGEV infection was correlated with a higher expression of APN, which was indicative that APN plays an important role in porcine coronavirus infections. However, PEDV and TGEV infected both APN positive and negative enterocytes. PEDV and TGEV Miller showed a higher infectivity in APN positive cells than in APN negative cells. In contrast, TGEV Purdue replicated better in APN negative cells. These results show that an additional receptor exists, different from APN for porcine coronaviruses. Subsequently, treatment of enterocytes with neuraminidase (NA) had no effect on infection efficiency of TGEV, implying that terminal cellular sialic acids (SAs) are no receptor determinants for TGEV. Treatment of TGEV with NA significantly enhanced the infection which shows that TGEV is masked by SAs.
Estudo da Especialização Funcional Hemisférica em Pacientes com Epilepsia Parcial através de Teste Taquistoscópico de Dígitos
Authors: Muszkat Mauro
Published: April 2020

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Ambulance Use by International Travelers in Japan: A Retrospective Descriptive Study
Authors: Oshita Yusuke , Tsuchiya Koki , Ishikawa Koji , Hirabayashi Kodai , Nemoto Tetsuya
Published: April 2020

Introduction: Reports indicate that 22%–64% of travelers experience some illness when in a foreign country. To date, no prior study has reported the use of ambulances by travelers or the epidemiology of travel-related injury. Methods: In this retrospective study, we aimed to describe ambulance use by international travelers, including the rates of travel-related injury and illness. To do so, ambulance dispatch data from January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2018 was used. Results: Overall, of the 43201 cases of ambulance use during the study period, 524 (1.2%) were international travelers. Ambulance use by international travelers increased from 0.35% in 2010 (15/4311) to 2.54% in 2018 (125/4913), an average annual increase of 0.27%. Of the international travelers, 392 (74.8%) had minor complaints, 110 cases (21.0%) had moderate complaints, 280 (53.4%) had internal disease, and 223 cases (42.6%) had suffered trauma. Regarding location, 253 (48.3%) were from a hotel/lodge, 83 (15.8%) were from a road/parking, and 30 (5.7%) were in the forest/mountain. Conclusion: Most international travelers use ambulances for minor complaints, typically internal disease or trauma, and approximately half access the service from a hotel or lodge.
Medical Tourism Overseas: A Challenge to Kuwait’s Healthcare System
Authors: Alhendi Bader , Al-Saifi Saleh , Khaja Aliaa
Published: April 2020

Introduction: The State of Kuwait spends large sums of governmental funds on sending patients abroad to receive medical treatment. This study aimed to explain the rationale behind receiving primary medical care overseas, given the expense and inconvenience, from the perspective of Kuwaiti patients whose applications were approved. Methods: The survey was designed based on recommendations from an expert panel of physicians working in Kuwait and aimed to give insight into outbound medical services as perceived by the Kuwaiti population. Using Google Forms, the survey was sent electronically to 1067 patients who received treatment abroad sponsored by the government in the year 2018, and 590 responses were returned. The study itself explored reasons for seeking treatment abroad, finances, preferred countries, and whether there were touristic reasons behind such practice. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 26. Results: Overall, males (52.3%) and females (47.7%) were equally represented in the study sample. The mean age for the study sample was 41±13.4 years. Approximately 45.3% of the respondents were married and had children. Of the remaining respondents, 21.9% were married with no children and 23.8% were single without children. All respondents received medical treatment abroad, and 52.3% of the married respondents and 47.7% of the single respondents stated that they received treatment once and more than once, respectively. Conclusion: Most Kuwaiti citizens do not have faith in the Kuwaiti medical system. Therefore, heavy investments are needed to send patients abroad.
Educating for co‑Production of Community‑Driven
Knowledge
Authors: Magnussen Rikke , Hamann Villads Dalby , Stensgaard Anne Gro
Published: April 2020

In this paper, we present the project, Community Drive, as
well as the theoretical and empirical background on which the
project is based. Through technical and humanistic collaboration,
the project aims to create models that allow children and young
people to participate in overcoming future challenges in cities by
becoming active and contributing participants in research and
development efforts. Further, the project contributes knowledge
about community‑driven game tools, user‑driven big data and the
Internet of Things and their connection with intelligent and
socially responsible urban development. The project is conducted in
cooperation with the city of Copenhagen, local schools and Aalborg
University. Community Drive involves students, aged 10–13, attending
schools in deprived neighbourhoods near Aalborg University
Copenhagen in southern Copenhagen. This area is characterised by a
high rate of unemployment, low income and residents with little or
no education. As a result, resources have been allocated for
reconditioning the subsidised housing in this area. In this paper,
we discuss the ways in which Community Drive, initiated in May 2018,
is based on the results of pilot projects conducted from 2014 to
2017. Overall, these studies showed that tasking students with
changing their living conditions by redesigning their neighbourhoods
is a strong motivational factor. During the redesign process,
students were able to construct game‑based models of various
residents’ needs and argue for redesigns based on their knowledge
about the area and the ability of certain designs to fulfil the
needs of various groups of residents living in the area. We also
present initial results from collaboration workshops between schools
and professional external local partners. These results show that
three themes are central for the collaboration process: building
local contact, meaningful local ownership and real challenges and
applicable solutions.
Isolasi Mikroorganisme Anaerob Limbah Cair Tekstil Menggunakan Desikator Sebagai Inkubator Anaerobik
Authors: Kurnia Dianty Rosirda Dewi , Permatasari Ira , Rafika Yuni
Published: April 2020

Isolasi Mikroorganisme Anaerob Limbah Cair Tekstil Menggunakan Desikator Sebagai Inkubator Anaerobik. Penggunaan mikroorganisme untuk mengolah limbah cair tekstil yang mengandung bahan organik tinggi sangat potensial untuk dikembangkan. Mikroorganisme anaerob dapat digunakan pada pengolahan limbah cair, yaitu untuk mendegradasi senyawa- senyawa organik kompleks berantai panjang menjadi senyawa yang lebih sederhana sehingga dapat menurunkan beban kerja dari pengolahan aerobik. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui efektivitas desikator termodifikasi sebagai inkubator anaerob dan melakukan isolasi mikroba dari unit pengolahan air limbah tekstil sehingga diperoleh konsorsium mikroorganisme (mixed culture) anaerobik. Desikator dimodifikasi dengan dialiri gas nitrogen untuk menghilangkan gas oksigen di dalam desikator. Parameter yang digunakan sebagai indikator adalah pengamatan secara makroskopis, mikroskopis dan uji pembentukan hidrogen sulfida. Isolat pembanding yang digunakan adalah Pseudomonas aeruginosa sebagai bakteri aerob obligat, Escherichia coli sebagai bakteri anaerob fakultatif, Desulvofibrio desulfuricans dan Methanobrevibacter ruminantium sebagai anaerob obligat. Desikator termodifikasi juga digunakan sebagai inkubator untuk melakukan isolasi. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa desikator yang dimodifikasi mempunyai efektivitas sebagai inkubator anaerob meskipun bakteri obligat aerob dan aerob fakultatif masih dapat tumbuh karena pada media yang digunakan masih terdapat oksigen terlarut yang ditandai dengan warna pink di bagian atas media dan lilin dinyalakan di dalam desikator dapat juga digunakan sebagai indikator keberadaan oksigen. Desikator ini juga menunjukkan efektivitas untuk digunakan sebagai inkubator anaerob. Pada proses isolasi dari pengolahan limbah anaerob pabrik tekstil diperoleh 6 jenis isolat yang dapat digunakan sebagai konsorsium mikroorganisme (mixed culture) anaerobik.
Penapisan Zat Warna Alam Golongan Anthocyanin dari Tanaman Sekitar Sebagai Indikator Asam Basa
Authors: Santoso Budi , Sri Mulyono Edi Wahyu
Published: April 2020

Ekstraksi zat warna alami dari beberapa macam bunga, antara lain bunga Tapak dara (Catharanthus roseus L.), Mawar merah (Rosa L.), Alamanda kuning (Allamanda canthartica), bunga rambat ungu (Ipomoea cairica), dan bunga saputangan (Maniltoa grandiflora) memiliki potensi untukdigunakan sebagai indikator asam basa. Demikian pula dengan ekstrak zat warna alami dari biji beras hitam (Oryza sativa L.) daun bayam merah (Celosia argentea), kubis ungu/merah (Brassica oleracea var.) dan umbi bit merah (Beta vulgaris). Hampir keseluruhan bagian tanaman tersebutmengandung zat warna alam yang dapat digunakan sebagai indikator alami, yakni memiliki perubahan warna yang jelas pada pH tertentu. Zat warna alam ini pada umumnya tersusun oleh senyawa antosianin. Ekstrak kubis ungu diduga mengandung kadar antosianin yang paling tinggidan menunjukkan perubahan warna yang paling lengkap pada semua perubahan nilai pH. Persen berat hasil ekstraksi senyawa golongan Antosianin dari kubis ungu dengan menggunakan pelarutair adalah 0,22 % b/b sedangkan dengan HCl 0,1 N dalam metanol 0,36 % b/b. Konsentrasi total anthocyanidin dihitung berdasarkan Cyanidin 3-glucosida dengan absorptivitas molar 26,900 L mol-1 cm-1.
VALIDITY AND RELIABILITY QUESTIONNAIRE FOR PHYSICAL ACTIVITY CONSTRAINTS AT PRESCHOOL
Authors: Mohd Basir Jamilah , Zain Azizah , Osman Zaharah
Published: April 2020

Malaysia is the second-largest country for childhood obesity problems in Asian countries. This polemic indirectly caused children less active in physical activity. The purpose of this study was to identify the validity and reliability of factors affecting the constraints of physical activity in preschool. Factors that interfere with physical activity in preschool are due to teacher’s factor, preschool environment factor and physical activity equipment factor. A total of 75 preschool teachers were involved in this study. Therefore, to ensure that this questionnaire is reliable and valid, two phases of validity have been implemented. The first phase of the validation phase was carried out by providing a questionnaire to two experts, a language specialist, and an early childhood education expert. After obtaining expert reviews, all of the reviews were improved to further the second phase of the study. The second phase is the instrument reliability phase. The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) 23.0 application was used to obtain Cronbach’s Alpha scores. Findings show that all items have high reliability because the value of Cronbach Alpha’s questionnaire obtained α = 0.854.