bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Turkish Adaptation of the Positive–Negative Relationship Quality (PN-RQ) Scale: A Reliability and Validity Study
Authors: Araz Arzu , Güngör Duygu , Aşçı Eda
Published: September 2019

Background: The present study investigates the reliability and validity of the Positive–Negative Relationship Quality (PN-RQ) scale in Turkey. This study aims to test different factorial models including orthogonal factors model, correlated factors model, one-factor model, and bifactor model. Methods: In order to determine the validity and reliability of the scale, two studies were performed. The first was carried out with emerging adults (university students) who were in a romantic relationship (148 females, 43 males, and 2 unknown) and had the main purpose to examine the structure validity of the measurement tool in the Turkish sample with an exploratory analysis. Study 2 was performed online with 513 married adults (359 females, 149 males, and 5 unknown); confirmatory findings and criterion validity studies were added. Results: Exploratory factor analyses revealed that relationship quality had a two-factor structure and that there was also a negative relationship between the factors. Confirmatory factor analyses on the married sample showed that the bi-factor model provided evidence for the multidimensional nature of the scale. Both studies demonstrated high internal consistency. Conclusion: There is evidence for reliability and validity in the Turkish version of the PN-RQ scale to measure both positive and negative aspects of the relationship. The PN-RQ scale will be highly functional for social and clinical psychologists who work on close relationship issues in Turkey.
Recent Advances in Industrial Sulfur Tolerant Water Gas Shift Catalysts for Syngas Hydrogen Enrichment: Application of Lean (Low) Steam/Gas Ratio
Authors: Liu Bonan , Zhao Liang , Wu Zhijie , Zhang Jin , Zong Qiuyun , Almegren Hamid , Wei Feng , Zhang Xiaohan , Zhao Zhen , Gao Jinsen , Xiao Tiancun
Published: September 2019

A novel sulfur tolerant water gas shift (SWGS) catalyst has been developed for the applications under lean (low) steam/gas ratio conditions, which has been extensively used for H2/CO adjustment of syngas and H2 enrichment in the world since 2000s with safer operation and lower steam consumption. Technology design and catalyst performances under different lean steam/gas conditions were comprehensively reported. Industrial data were collected from several large scale running plants with a variety of served catalysts characterized and precisely re-examined in the laboratory. It is shown that the developed Mo–Co/alkali/Al2O3 SWGS catalyst can operate very steadily even with the steam/gas ratio as low as 0.2–0.3, and the main deactivation factors are accidental caking, sintering, as well as poisoning impurities, such as As or Cl. The adoption of lean steam/gas SWGS catalyst can significantly improve the plant efficiency & safety and remarkably reduce the actual steam consumption for H2 production, which can decrease CO2 emission correspondingly. The work helps to evaluate how specially designed SWGS catalysts performed under applied lean steam/gas conditions, providing important references for researchers and industry.
Regulation and Function of C-Type Natriuretic Peptide (CNP) in Gonadotrope-Derived Cell Lines
Authors: Mirczuk Samantha M , Lessey Andrew J , Catterick Alice R , Perrett Rebecca M , Scudder Christopher J , Read Jordan E , Lipscomb Victoria J , Niessen Stijn J , Childs Andrew J , McArdle Craig A , McGonnell Imelda M , Fowkes Robert C
Published: September 2019

C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) is the most conserved member of the mammalian natriuretic peptide family, and is implicated in the endocrine regulation of growth, metabolism and reproduction. CNP is expressed throughout the body, but is particularly abundant in the central nervous system and anterior pituitary gland. Pituitary gonadotropes are regulated by pulsatile release of gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus, to control reproductive function. GnRH and CNP reciprocally regulate their respective signalling pathways in αT3-1 gonadotrope cells, but effects of pulsatile GnRH stimulation on CNP expression has not been explored. Here, we examine the sensitivity of the natriuretic peptide system in LβT2 and αT3-1 gonadotrope cell lines to continuous and pulsatile GnRH stimulation, and investigate putative CNP target genes in gonadotropes. Multiplex RT-qPCR assays confirmed that primary mouse pituitary tissue express Nppc, Npr2 (encoding CNP and guanylyl cyclase B (GC-B), respectively) and Furin (a CNP processing enzyme), but failed to express transcripts for Nppa or Nppb (encoding ANP and BNP, respectively). Pulsatile, but not continuous, GnRH stimulation of LβT2 cells caused significant increases in Nppc and Npr2 expression within 4 h, but failed to alter natriuretic peptide gene expression in αT3-1 cells. CNP enhanced expression of cJun, Egr1, Nr5a1 and Nr0b1, within 8 h in LβT2 cells, but inhibited Nr5a1 expression in αT3-1 cells. Collectively, these data show the gonadotrope natriuretic peptide system is sensitive to pulsatile GnRH signalling, and gonadotrope transcription factors are putative CNP-target genes. Such findings represent additional mechanisms by which CNP may regulate reproductive function.
Functional Linear and Nonlinear Brain–Heart Interplay during Emotional Video Elicitation: A Maximum Information Coefficient Study
Authors: Catrambone Vincenzo , Greco Alberto , Scilingo Enzo Pasquale , Valenza Gaetano
Published: September 2019

Brain and heart continuously interact through anatomical and biochemical connections. Although several brain regions are known to be involved in the autonomic control, the functional brain–heart interplay (BHI) during emotional processing is not fully characterized yet. To this aim, we investigate BHI during emotional elicitation in healthy subjects. The functional linear and nonlinear couplings are quantified using the maximum information coefficient calculated between time-varying electroencephalography (EEG) power spectra within the canonical bands ( δ , θ , α , β and γ ), and time-varying low-frequency and high-frequency powers from heartbeat dynamics. Experimental data were gathered from 30 healthy volunteers whose emotions were elicited through pleasant and unpleasant high-arousing videos. Results demonstrate that functional BHI increases during videos with respect to a resting state through EEG oscillations not including the γ band (>30 Hz). Functional linear coupling seems associated with a high-arousing positive elicitation, with preferred EEG oscillations in the θ band ( [ 4 , 8 ) Hz) especially over the left-temporal and parietal cortices. Differential functional nonlinear coupling between emotional valence seems to mainly occur through EEG oscillations in the δ , θ , α bands and sympathovagal dynamics, as well as through δ , α , β oscillations and parasympathetic activity mainly over the right hemisphere. Functional BHI through δ and α oscillations over the prefrontal region seems primarily nonlinear. This study provides novel insights on synchronous heartbeat and cortical dynamics during emotional video elicitation, also suggesting that a nonlinear analysis is needed to fully characterize functional BHI.
The Emerging Energy Internet: Architecture, Benefits, Challenges, and Future Prospects
Authors: Hussain S. M. Suhail , Nadeem Furquan , Aftab Mohd Asim , Ali Ikbal , Ustun Taha Selim
Published: September 2019

Energy Internet is a concept proposed to harness, control, and manage energy resources effectively, with the help of information and communication technology. It improves a reliability of the system, and provides an increased utilization of energy resources by integrating the smart grid with the Internet. A scalable and reliable information and communication architecture is a crucial factor for both the operation and management of the energy Internet. The routing or managing of electrical energy is performed through an energy router (ER), synonymous with a communication router, which routes data packets instead of energy packets. In this paper, a holistic review of the energy Internet evolution in terms of the architecture, types of ERs, and the benefits and challenges of its implementation is presented. An exhaustive summary of the designs and architectures of the different types of ERs is also presented in this paper. The benefits of the energy Internet, along with the challenges of its implementation on a large-scale distributed architecture with the inclusion of renewable energy resources, is discussed. Finally, future prospects for the energy Internet for achieving guaranteed reliability and security is presented.
Analysis of Coupled Wellbore Temperature and Pressure Calculation Model and Influence Factors under Multi-Pressure System in Deep-Water Drilling
Authors: Zhang Ruiyao , Li Jun , Liu Gonghui , Yang Hongwei , Jiang Hailong
Published: September 2019

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the variation of wellbore temperature and bottom-hole pressure with key factors in the case of coupled temperature and pressure under multi-pressure system during deep-water drilling circulation. According to the law of energy conservation and momentum equation, the coupled temperature and pressure calculation model under multi-pressure system is developed by using the comprehensive convective heat transfer coefficient. The model is discretized and solved by finite difference method and Gauss Seidel iteration respectively. Then the calculation results of this paper are compared and verified with previous research models and field measured data. The results show that when the multi-pressure system is located in the middle formation, the temperature of the annulus corresponding to location of the system is the most affected, and the temperature of the other areas in annulus is hardly affected. However, when the multi-pressure system is located at the bottom hole, the annulus temperature is greatly affected from bottom hole to mudline. In addition, the thermo-physical parameters of the drilling fluid can be changed by overflow and leakage. When only overflow occurs, the annulus temperature increases the most, but the viscosity decreases the most. When only leakage occurs, the annulus temperature decreases the most and the viscosity increases the most. However, when the overflow rate is greater than the leakage rate, the mud density and bottom-hole pressure increase the most, and both increase the least when only leakage occurs. Meanwhile, bottom-hole pressure increases with the increase of pump rate but decreases with the increase of inlet temperature. The research results can provide theoretical guidance for safe drilling in complex formations such as multi-pressure systems.
Analysis of Volatile Constituents in Platostoma palustre (Blume) Using Headspace Solid-Phase Microextraction and Simultaneous Distillation-Extraction
Authors: Kung Tsai-Li , Chen Yi-Ju , Chao Louis Kuoping , Wu Chin-Sheng , Lin Li-Yun , Chen Hsin-Chun
Published: September 2019

Hsian-tsao (Platostoma palustre Blume) is a traditional Taiwanese food. It is admired by many consumers, especially in summer, because of its aroma and taste. This study reports the analysis of the volatile components present in eight varieties of Hsian-tsao using headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) and simultaneous distillation-extraction (SDE) coupled with gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS). HS-SPME is a non-heating method, and the results show relatively true values of the samples during flavor isolation. However, it is a kind of headspace analysis that has the disadvantage of a lower detection ability to relatively higher molecular weight compounds; also, the data are not quantitative, but instead are used for comparison. The SDE method uses distillation 2 h for flavor isolation; therefore, it quantitatively identifies more volatile compounds in the samples while the samples withstand heating. Both methods were used in this study to investigate information about the samples. The results showed that Nongshi No. 1 had the highest total quantity of volatile components using HS-SPME, whereas SDE indicated that Taoyuan Mesona 1301 (TYM1301) had the highest volatile concentration. Using the two extraction methods, 120 volatile components were identified. Fifty-six volatile components were identified using HS-SPME, and the main volatile compounds were α-pinene, β-pinene, and limonene. A total of 108 volatile components were identified using SDE, and the main volatile compounds were α-bisabolol, β-caryophyllene, and caryophyllene oxide. Compared with SDE, HS-SPME sampling extracted a significantly higher amount of monoterpenes and had a poorer detection of less volatile compounds, such as sesquiterpenes, terpene alcohols, and terpene oxide.
Title Transnationalism and Genealogy: An Introduction
Authors: Yang Philip Q.
Published: September 2019

Transnationalism and genealogy is an emerging subfield of genealogy. The field has witnessed a significant growth in the last two to three decades, especially in the areas of transnationalism and family arrangements, transnational marriage, transnational adoption, transnational parenting, and transnational care for elderly parents. However, large gaps remain, especially with regard to the impact of transnationalism on lineage. Articles in this Special Issue fill some of the gaps. Additional research is called for.
Saltwater Intrusion in the Upper Tagus Estuary during Droughts
Authors: Rodrigues Marta , Fortunato André B. , Freire Paula
Published: September 2019

Droughts reduce freshwater availability and have negative environmental, economic, and social impacts. In estuaries, the dynamics between the saltwater and the freshwater can be affected during droughts, which can impact several natural resources and economic sectors negatively. The Tagus estuary is one of the largest estuaries in Europe and supports diverse uses and activities that can be affected by the saltwater intrusion (e.g., agriculture). This study assesses the saltwater intrusion in the upper reaches of the Tagus estuary using a process-based model to explore different scenarios of freshwater discharge and sea level rise. For the river discharge and mean sea level rise scenarios analyzed, salinity can reach concentrations that are inadequate for irrigation when the mean Tagus river discharge is similar or lower than the ones observed during recent droughts (22–44 m3/s). Lower river discharges aggravate the consequences. Results also show that the salinity increases with the duration of the droughts. In contrast, the impact of a moderate sea level rise on salinity intrusion is modest when compared with the impact of low river discharges. These findings contribute to support the management of the agricultural activities in the upper Tagus estuary and the water resources in the Tagus river basin.
Man up! Masculinity and (Homo)sexuality in René Depestre’s Transatlantic World
Authors: Couti Jacqueline , Grant Jason C.
Published: September 2019

The question of homosexuality in Francophone Caribbean literature is often overlooked. However, the ways in which the Haitian René Depestre’s Le mât de cocagne (The Festival of the Greasy Pole, 1979) and “Blues pour une tasse de thé vert” (“Blues for a Cup of Green Tea”), a short story from the collection Eros dans un train chinois (Eros on a Chinese Train, 1990) portray homoeroticism and homosexuality begs further study. In these texts, the study of the violence that surrounds the representation of sexuality reveals the sociopolitical implications of erotic and racial images in a French transatlantic world. Hence, the proposed essay “Man up!” interrogates a (Black) hegemonic masculinity inherited from colonialism and the homophobia it generates. This masculinity prescribes normative traits that frequently appear toxic as it thrives on hypersexuality and brute force. When these two traits become associated with violence and homoeroticism, however, they threaten this very masculinity. Initially, Depestre valorizes “solar eroticism,” a French Caribbean expression of a Black sexuality, free and joyful, and “geolibertinage,” its transnational and global expression. Namely, his novel and short story sing a hegemonic and polyamorous heterosexuality, respectively, in a postcolonial milieu (Haiti) and a diasporic space (Paris). The misadventures of his male characters suggest that eroticism in transatlantic spaces has more to do with Thanatos (death) than Eros (sex). Though Depestre formally explores the construction of the other and the mechanisms of racism and oppression in essays, he also tackles these themes in his fictional work. Applying Caribbean feminist and gendered lenses to his fiction bring to light the intricate bonds between racism, sexism and homophobia. Such a framework reveals the many facets of patriarchy and its mechanism of control.
Effects of Psychological Factors on Modal Shift from Car to Dockless Bike Sharing: A Case Study of Nanjing, China
Authors: Ma Xinwei , Cao Ruiming , Wang Jianbiao
Published: September 2019

The emergence of dockless bike sharing in recent years has reduced the usage of private cars, especially usage for short-distance trips (within 2 km). In this paper, a modified technology acceptance model (TAM) is proposed to investigate from the psychological perspective drivers’ willingness to shift to dockless bike sharing. The modified TAM includes the perceived usefulness of dockless bike sharing, perceived ease-of-use of dockless bike sharing, perceived health of dockless bike sharing, attitudes toward dockless bike sharing, and willingness to shift to dockless bike sharing. Data are obtained through offline communications with car drivers. The results show that two-thirds of car drivers are willing to use dockless bike sharing in short-distance trips. Perceived health, perceived ease-of-use, and perceived usefulness have significant positive effects on people’s attitudes toward dockless bike sharing. As expected, people’s attitudes toward dockless bike sharing are positively correlated with their willingness to shift. Policy implications are discussed to prompt the modal shift from private cars to dockless bike sharing according to the results.
The Associations of Vitamin D Status with Athletic Performance and Blood-borne Markers in Adolescent Athletes: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Seo Myong-Won , Song Jong Kook , Jung Hyun Chul , Kim Sung-Woo , Kim Jung-Hyun , Lee Jung-Min
Published: September 2019

The purpose of this study was to examine the associations of vitamin D status with athletic performance and blood-borne markers in adolescent athletes. This cross-sectional study included forty-seven Taekwondo athletes, aged 15–18 years old. Athletic performance was assessed using maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max), Wingate anaerobic power test, vertical jump, agility T-test, lower limb muscle strength, and fatigue resistance. Blood samples were collected to assess serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D], free-testosterone, cortisol, creatine kinase, and urea. One-way ANOVAs were applied using Bonferroni adjusted alpha levels, which was 0.02 (i.e., 0.05/3). Multiple linear regressions analyses as well as Pearson and partial correlation analyses were used to examine the relationship among 25(OH)D concentration, athletic performance, and blood-borne markers. The participants 25(OH)D concentration were ranged from 16 to 73.25 nmol/L, indicating that 74.5% of the adolescent athletes have vitamin D insufficiency or deficiency. The vitamin D status did not show any significant effects on the performance factors or blood-borne markers. Serum 25(OH)D concentration was positively correlated with mean power output (r = 0.359, p < 0.05) and relative mean power output (r = 0.325, p < 0.05) after adjusting for bone age, height, weight, training experience, lean body mass, and fat mass. However, 25(OH)D concentration was not associated with other performance-related factors and blood-borne markers. In addition, multiple linear regressions analyses revealed that serum 25(OH)D concentration were not significant predictors of athletic performance in adolescent athletes. In conclusion, vitamin D status is weakly correlated with anaerobic capacity; moreover, the underlying mechanisms of how vitamin D influence anaerobic performance is unclear in the present study. Nevertheless, the importance of vitamin D on health benefits should not be underestimated, especially during growth periods.
A Comparative Study of Spatial and Temporal Preferences for Waterfronts in Wuhan based on Gender Differences in Check-In Behavior
Authors: Wu Jing , Li Jingwen , Ma Yue
Published: September 2019

The geographical location and check-in frequency of social platform users indicate their personal preferences and intentions for space. On the basis of social media data and gender differences, this study analyzes Weibo users’ preferences and the reasons behind these preferences for the waterfronts of the 21 major lakes within Wuhan’s Third Ring Road, in accordance with users’ check-in behaviors. According to the distribution characteristics of the waterfronts’ points of interest, this study explores the preferences of male and female users for waterfronts and reveals, through the check-in behaviors of Weibo users, the gender differences in the preference and willingness of these users to choose urban waterfronts. Results show that men and women check in significantly more frequently on weekends than on weekdays. Women are more likely than men to check in at waterfronts. Significant differences in time and space exist between male and female users’ preferences for different lakes.
The Pathogenic Factors from Oral Streptococci for Systemic Diseases
Authors: Yumoto Hiromichi , Hirota Katsuhiko , Hirao Kouji , Ninomiya Masami , Murakami Keiji , Fujii Hideki , Miyake Yoichiro
Published: September 2019

The oral cavity is suggested as the reservoir of bacterial infection, and the oral and pharyngeal biofilms formed by oral bacterial flora, which is comprised of over 700 microbial species, have been found to be associated with systemic conditions. Almost all oral microorganisms are non-pathogenic opportunistic commensals to maintain oral health condition and defend against pathogenic microorganisms. However, oral Streptococci, the first microorganisms to colonize oral surfaces and the dominant microorganisms in the human mouth, has recently gained attention as the pathogens of various systemic diseases, such as infective endocarditis, purulent infections, brain hemorrhage, intestinal inflammation, and autoimmune diseases, as well as bacteremia. As pathogenic factors from oral Streptococci, extracellular polymeric substances, toxins, proteins and nucleic acids as well as vesicles, which secrete these components outside of bacterial cells in biofilm, have been reported. Therefore, it is necessary to consider that the relevance of these pathogenic factors to systemic diseases and also vaccine candidates to protect infectious diseases caused by Streptococci. This review article focuses on the mechanistic links among pathogenic factors from oral Streptococci, inflammation, and systemic diseases to provide the current understanding of oral biofilm infections based on biofilm and widespread systemic diseases.
Noncanonical Ion Channel Behaviour in Pain
Authors: Ciotu Cosmin I. , Tsantoulas Christoforos , Meents Jannis , Lampert Angelika , McMahon Stephen B. , Ludwig Andreas , Fischer Michael J.M.
Published: September 2019

Ion channels contribute fundamental properties to cell membranes. Although highly diverse in conductivity, structure, location, and function, many of them can be regulated by common mechanisms, such as voltage or (de-)phosphorylation. Primarily considering ion channels involved in the nociceptive system, this review covers more novel and less known features. Accordingly, we outline noncanonical operation of voltage-gated sodium, potassium, transient receptor potential (TRP), and hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide (HCN)-gated channels. Noncanonical features discussed include properties as a memory for prior voltage and chemical exposure, alternative ion conduction pathways, cluster formation, and silent subunits. Complementary to this main focus, the intention is also to transfer knowledge between fields, which become inevitably more separate due to their size.
High-Resolution CT Change over Time in Patients with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis on Antifibrotic Treatment
Authors: Balestro Elisabetta , Cocconcelli Elisabetta , Giraudo Chiara , Polverosi Roberta , Biondini Davide , Lacedonia Donato , Bazzan Erica , Mazzai Linda , Rizzon Giulia , Lococo Sara , Turato Graziella , Tinè Mariaenrica , Cosio Manuel G. , Saetta Marina , Spagnolo Paolo
Published: September 2019

Antifibrotic treatment slows down functional decline and disease progression in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). High-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) is useful to diagnose IPF; however, little is known about whether and to what extent HRCT changes reflect functional changes during antifibrotic therapy. The aim of this study was, therefore, to assess HRCT change over time after 1 year of treatment and to evaluate whether these changes correlate with functional decline over the same period of time. Sixty-eight IPF patients on antifibrotic treatment (i.e., pirfenidone or nintedanib) were functionally categorized as stable or progressors based on whether (or not) they had a decline in forced vital capacity (FVC) >5% predicted/year, and their HRCT were scored blindly and independently by two expert thoracic radiologists at treatment initiation (HRCT1) and after 1 year of treatment (HRCT2). Ground glass opacities (Alveolar Score, AS), reticulations (Interstitial Score, IS) and honeycombing (HC) were quantified and correlated with FVC decline between HRCT1 and HRCT2. At treatment initiation, HRCT scores were similar in both stable patients and progressors. After one year of treatment, in the entire population, AS and HC increased significantly, while IS did not. However, when stratified by the rate of functional decline, in stable patients, HC increased significantly while AS and IS did not. On the other hand, among progressors AS and HC increased significantly whereas IS did not. In the entire population, the combined score of fibrosis (IS + HC) correlated significantly with FVC decline. In conclusion, IPF patients on antifibrotic treatment exhibit different patterns of HRCT change over time based on their rate of functional decline. HRCT data should be integrated to lung function data when assessing response to antifibrotic treatment in patients with IPF.
Improvement in Muscular Strength in HIV-Infected Individuals Receiving Antiretroviral Therapy
Authors: Sookan Takshita , Motala Ayesha , Ormsbee Michael , Antonio Jose , Magula Nombulelo , Lalloo Umesh , McKune Andrew
Published: September 2019

Purpose: This study investigated (1) the effect of a progressive resistance training (PRT) program and whey protein intake on maximal muscle strength in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected individuals receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) and (2) alterations in maximal strength 12 wks after the cessation of PRT with continued supplementation. Methods: Sixty HIV-infected individuals were recruited. Whole body PRT was performed twice weekly for 12 wks. Participants received, in a double-blind placebo controlled manner, either 20 g whey or placebo (maltodextrin) before and immediately after each session. Both PRT groups continued to take either whey protein or placebo for a further 12 wks following the exercise intervention to examine the effects of detraining. Results: Forty participants (mean and standard deviation (SD) age 40.8 (±7.7) years, weight 70.8 (±16) kg, body mass index (BMI) 30.9 (±7.2) kg m2); whey protein /PRT (n = 13), placebo/PRT (n = 17), and a control group (n = 10) completed the study. A significant main effect for time occurred for the bench press (p = 0.02), the squat (p < 0.0001), the deadlift (p = 0.001) and the shoulder press (p = 0.02) one-repetition maximum (1RM) in the intervention groups. Conclusion: The PRT program increased maximal strength regardless of whey protein intake. The detraining period demonstrated minimal strength loss, which is beneficial to this population.
Hydro-Acoustic and Hydrodynamic Optimization of a Marine Propeller Using Genetic Algorithm, Boundary Element Method, and FW-H Equations
Authors: Ebrahimi Abouzar , Seif Mohammad Saeed , Nouri-Borujerdi Ali
Published: September 2019

Noise generated by ships is one of the most significant noises in seas, and the propeller has a significant impact on the noise of ships, which reducing it can significantly lower the noise of vessels. In this study, a genetic algorithm was used to optimize the hydro-acoustic and hydrodynamic performance of propellers. The main objectives of this optimization were to reduce the propeller noise and increase its hydrodynamic efficiency. Modifying the propeller geometry is one of the most effective methods for optimizing a propeller performance. One of the numerical methods for calculating propeller noise is the Ffowcs Williams and Hawkings (FW-H) Model. A numerical code was developed by authors which solved these equations using the velocity and pressure distribution around the propeller and calculated its noise. To obtain flow quantities and to investigate the hydrodynamic performance of the propeller, a code was developed using a Boundary Element Method, the panel method. The geometry of DTMB 4119 propeller was selected for optimization, where geometric modifications included skew angle, rake angle, pitch to diameter (P/D) distribution, and chord to diameter (c/D) distribution. Finally, the results of geometric optimization were presented as Pareto optimal solutions. The results indicated that the optimum geometries had rake angles between 8.14 and 12.05 degrees and skew angles between 31.52 and 39.74 degrees. It was also observed that the increase in the chord up to a specific limit enhanced the efficiency and reduced the noise of the propeller.
Developing Oral Comprehension Skills with Students with Limited or Interrupted Formal Education
Authors: Laberge Carl , Beaulieu Suzie , Fortier Véronique
Published: September 2019

The development of oral comprehension skills is rarely studied in second and foreign language teaching, let alone in learning contexts involving students with limited or interrupted formal education (SLIFE). Thus, we conducted a mixed-methods study attempting to measure the effect of implicit teaching of oral comprehension strategies with 37 SLIFE in Quebec City, a predominantly French-speaking city in Canada. Two experimental groups received implicit training in listening strategies, whereas a control group viewed the same documents without strategy training. Participants’ listening comprehension performance was measured quantitatively before the treatment, immediately after, and one week later with three different versions of an oral comprehension test targeting both explicit and implicit content of authentic audiovisual documents. Overall, data analysis showed a low success rate for all participants in the oral comprehension tests, with no significant effect of the experimental treatment. However, data from the intervention sessions revealed that the participants’ verbalisations of their comprehension varied qualitatively over time. The combination of these results is discussed in light of previous findings on low literate adults’ informal and formal language learning experiences.
A Lyapunov-Type Inequality for a Laplacian System on a Rectangular Domain with Zero Dirichlet Boundary Conditions
Authors: Jleli Mohamed , Samet Bessem
Published: September 2019

We consider a coupled system of partial differential equations involving Laplacian operator, on a rectangular domain with zero Dirichlet boundary conditions. A Lyapunov-type inequality related to this problem is derived. This inequality provides a necessary condition for the existence of nontrivial positive solutions.
Deduction of Novel Genes Potentially Involved in the Effects of Very Low Dose Atropine (0.003%) Treatment on Corneal Epithelial Cells Using Next-Generation Sequencing and Bioinformatics Approaches
Authors: Chang Wei-An , Hsiao Yu-Ting , Lin Hsien-Chung , Jian Shu-Fang , Chen Yi-Jen , Kuo Po-Lin
Published: September 2019

Background and Objectives: Atropine is a nonselective muscarinic antagonist which has been used to prevent worsening of myopia in children. Different concentrations of atropine were used for myopia, ranging from 0.01% to 1.0%. However, there are still potential toxicity of different doses of atropine to the cornea. Here, we present a study of investigating novel genes potentially involved in the effects of very low dose atropine treatment (0.003%) on corneal epithelial cells using next-generation sequencing (NGS) and bioinformatics approaches. Materials and Methods: Human corneal epithelial cells were treated with 0.003% atropine, cultured until confluence, and RNA extracted for differential expression profiling of mRNA and microRNA (miRNA) between control and atropine-treated corneal epithelial cells. The functional enrichment analysis for differentially expressed genes was performed using two bioinformatics databases, including Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery (DAVID) and Ingenuity® Pathway Analysis (IPA). In addition, potential miRNA-mRNA interactions involved in atropine-treated corneal epithelial cells were predicted and validated using different miRNA target prediction databases. Results: Our results showed 0.003% atropine might suppress the apoptosis of corneal epithelial cells, potentially through Ras and protein kinase A signaling pathways. We also validated the possible miRNA regulations by using TargetScan and miRDB databases. Hsa-miR-651-3p-EPHA7, hsa-miR-3148-TMEM108 and hsa-miR-874-5p-TBX6 were validated as possible miRNA regulations involved in corneal epithelial cells treated with 0.003% atropine. Conclusions: These findings may contribute novel insights into therapeutic strategies for treating cornea with 0.003% atropine.
Pharmacotherapy Literacy of Parents in the Rural and Urban Areas of Serbia—Are There Any Differences?
Authors: Krajnović Dušanka , Ubavić Stana , Bogavac-Stanojević Nataša
Published: September 2019

Background and objectives: Pharmacotherapy literacy (PHTL) is an individual’s capacity to obtain, evaluate, calculate, and comprehend basic information about pharmacotherapy and pharmacy-related services necessary to make appropriate medication-related decisions, regardless of the mode of content delivery (e.g., written, oral, visual images and symbols). It is already proven that low PHTL of parents can cause serious problems in the treatment of a pediatric population. We aimed to identify the differences in parental PHTL levels, socio-demographic and health-related characteristics (chronic disease of a child, breastfeeding of a child, annual visits to a pediatrician, parental-self-estimation of health status) between rural and urban areas and to investigate the influence of living in rural areas on a low PHTL level. Materials and methods: Our study was cross-sectional with a validated 14-item instrument (“Parental pharmacotherapy literacy questionnaire—Serbian”), which assessed overall PHTL and its three domains of knowledge, understanding and numerical skills necessary for the safe use of medicines. We analyzed 250 parents of pre-school children (1–7 years old) in rural areas and 182 parents from urban areas in Serbia. Results: Every tenth parent from rural and every fourth parent from urban areas had the highest PHTL level or more than 85% correct answers. However, 51% and 28% of parents in rural and urban areas, respectively, had a low PHTL level (less than 65% correct answers), [Х2(1, n = 432) = 33.2; p < 0.001]. Parents from different areas statistically differed in age, education level, employment, breastfeeding and annual visits to pediatrician rate. Those from rural areas had almost twice the probability of low PHTL levels (ORa = 2.033; p = 0.003) than their urban counterparts, independently of other examined parental characteristics. Conclusions: Parents from rural areas have more difficulties to obtain, evaluate, calculate and comprehend basic information related to pharmacotherapy than parents from urban areas.
Translation, Cultural Adaptation, and Evaluation of a Brazilian Portuguese Questionnaire to Estimate the Self-Reported Prevalence of Gluten-Related Disorders and Adherence to Gluten-Free Diet
Authors: Arámburo-Gálvez Jesús , Carvalho Gomes Itallo , André Tatiane , Beltrán-Cárdenas Carlos , Macêdo-Callou María , Braga Rocha Élida , Mye-Takamatu-Watanabe Elaine , Rahmeier-Fietz Vivian , Figueroa-Salcido Oscar , Cárdenas-Torres Feliznando , Ontiveros Noé , Cabrera-Chávez Francisco
Published: September 2019

Background: A Spanish version of a questionnaire intended to estimate, at the population level, the prevalence rates of self-reported gluten-related disorders and adherence to gluten-free diets has been applied in four Latin American countries. However, idiom issues have hampered the questionnaire application in the Brazilian population. Thus, the aim of the present study was to carry out a translation, cultural adaptation, and evaluation of a Brazilian Portuguese questionnaire to estimate the self-reported prevalence of gluten-related disorders and adherence to gluten-free diets in a Brazilian population. Materials and Methods: Two bilingual Portuguese–Spanish health professionals carried out the translation of the original Spanish version of the questionnaire to Brazilian-Portuguese. Matching between the two translations was evaluated using the WCopyFind.4.1.5 software. Words in conflict were conciliated, and the conciliated version of the Brazilian Portuguese instrument was evaluated to determine its clarity, comprehension, and consistency. A pilot study was carried out using an online platform. Results: The two questionnaires translated into Brazilian Portuguese were highly matched (81.8%–84.1%). The questions of the conciliated questionnaire were clear and comprehensible with a high agreement among the evaluators (n = 64) (average Kendall’s W score was 0.875). The participants did not suggest re-wording of questions. The answers to the questions were consistent after two applications of the questionnaire (Cohen’s k = 0.869). The pilot online survey yielded low response rates (9.0%) highlighting the need for face-to-face interviews. Conclusions: The translation and evaluation of a Brazilian Portuguese questionnaire to estimate the self-reported prevalence rates of gluten-related disorders and adherence to gluten-free diets was carried out. The instrument is clear, comprehensible, and generates reproducible results in the target population. Further survey studies involving face-to-face interviews are warranted.
Acute Effects of Transdermal Administration of Jojoba Oil on Lipid Metabolism in Mice
Authors: Matsumoto Yutaka , Ma Sihui , Tominaga Takaki , Yokoyama Keiko , Kitatani Kanae , Horikawa Kazumasa , Suzuki Katsuhiko
Published: September 2019

Background and objectives: Aroma therapy is a complementary therapy using essential oils diluted with carrier oils. Jojoba oils have been widely used as carrier oils. However, limited information is available regarding their effects on blood biochemical parameters. This study aimed to investigate the effect of transdermal administration of jojoba oil on blood biochemical parameters in mice. Materials and Methods: Eight-week-old male hairless mice were randomly divided into naïve control and treatment groups. In the treatment group, mice were topically administered 4 μL of jojoba oil, per gram of body weight, on the dorsa 30 min before euthanasia. Thereafter, serum biochemical parameters were assayed, and gene expression was analyzed in various tissues via a real-time polymerase chain reaction. Results: Serum non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) levels increased significantly 30 min after topical application of jojoba oil (p < 0.05). Atgl was significantly upregulated in the liver (p < 0.05), and Atgl upregulation in the liver was positively correlated with serum NEFA levels (r = 0.592, p < 0.05). Furthermore, a trend of decreasing fatty acid trafficking-related gene (FABPpm, FATP-1, FATP-3, and FATP-4) expression in the skin after topical application of jojoba oil (p = 0.067, 0.074, 0.076, and 0.082, respectively) was observed. Conclusions: Serum NEFA levels were elevated 30 min after transdermal administration of jojoba oil. The mechanisms of elevated serum NEFA levels might be related to both enhanced lipolysis in the liver and reduced fatty acid trafficking in the skin.
Targeted Clinical Metabolite Profiling Platform for the Stratification of Diabetic Patients
Authors: Ahonen Linda , Jäntti Sirkku , Suvitaival Tommi , Theilade Simone , Risz Claudia , Kostiainen Risto , Rossing Peter , Orešič Matej , Hyötyläinen Tuulia
Published: September 2019

Several small molecule biomarkers have been reported in the literature for prediction and diagnosis of (pre)diabetes, its co-morbidities, and complications. Here, we report the development and validation of a novel, quantitative method for the determination of a selected panel of 34 metabolite biomarkers from human plasma. We selected a panel of metabolites indicative of various clinically-relevant pathogenic stages of diabetes. We combined these candidate biomarkers into a single ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) method and optimized it, prioritizing simplicity of sample preparation and time needed for analysis, enabling high-throughput analysis in clinical laboratory settings. We validated the method in terms of limits of detection (LOD) and quantitation (LOQ), linearity (R2), and intra- and inter-day repeatability of each metabolite. The method’s performance was demonstrated in the analysis of selected samples from a diabetes cohort study. Metabolite levels were associated with clinical measurements and kidney complications in type 1 diabetes (T1D) patients. Specifically, both amino acids and amino acid-related analytes, as well as specific bile acids, were associated with macro-albuminuria. Additionally, specific bile acids were associated with glycemic control, anti-hypertensive medication, statin medication, and clinical lipid measurements. The developed analytical method is suitable for robust determination of selected plasma metabolites in the diabetes clinic.
Untargeted Metabolomics Toward Systematic Characterization of Antioxidant Compounds in Betulaceae Family Plant Extracts
Authors: Lee Sunmin , Oh Dong-Gu , Singh Digar , Lee Hye Jin , Kim Ga Ryun , Lee Sarah , Lee Jong Seok , Lee Choong Hwan
Published: September 2019

Plant species have traditionally been revered for their unparalleled pharmacognostic applications. We outline a non-iterative multi-parallel metabolomic-cum-bioassay-guided methodology toward the functional characterization of ethanol extracts from the Betulaceae family plants (n = 10). We performed mass spectrometry (MS)-based multivariate analyses and bioassay-guided (ABTS antioxidant activity and cytoprotective effects against H2O2-induced cell damage) analyses of SPE fractions. A clearly distinct metabolomic pattern coupled with significantly higher bioactivities was observed for 40% methanol SPE eluate. Further, the 40% SPE eluate was subjected to preparative high-performance liquid chromatography (prep-HPLC) analysis, yielding 72 sub-fractions (1 min−1), with the highest antioxidant activities observed for the 15 min and 31 min sub-fractions. We simultaneously performed hyphenated-MS-based metabolite characterization of bioactive components for both the 40% methanol SPE fraction and its prep-HPLC sub-fraction (15 min and 31 min). Altogether, 19 candidate metabolites were mainly observed to contribute toward the observed bioactivities. In particular, ethyl gallate was mainly observed to affect the antioxidant activities of SPE and prep-HPLC fractions of Alnus firma extracts. We propose an integrated metabolomic-cum-bioassay-guided approach for the expeditious selection and characterization of discriminant metabolites with desired phenotypes or bioactivities.
The Kilmar Magnesite Deposits: Evaporitic Metasediments in the Grenville Supergroup, Morin Terrane, Quebec
Authors: Peck William H. , Eppich Gary R.
Published: September 2019

Mesoproterozoic magnesite deposits are found associated with dolomitic marble and intercalated with metasedimentary rocks of the Grenville Supergroup in the granulite facies Morin terrane (Grenville Province, Quebec). This study examines one of the remaining ore deposits exposed on the surface (at the Dobbie mine), and presents stable isotope and mineralogical data for a marine evaporitic origin. The magnesite ore zone has δ18O(Mag) = 25.5 ± 0.4‰ (VSMOW) and δ13C(Mag) = 1.7 ± 0.2‰ (VPDB; n = 7), while surrounding dolomitic marble has δ18O(Dol) = 24.2 ± 0.6‰ and δ13C(Dol) = −0.2 ± 0.7‰ (n = 11). These values are at the high end of the range for other Morin terrane marbles, and this and sharp transitions in stable isotope ratios between lithologies argue for preservation of evaporitic enrichment in δ18O and δ13C. Boron isotope ratios (δ11B = 15.5‰ to 22.7‰) are also consistent with a marine evaporite origin. Identifying evaporitic protoliths in metasedimentary rocks is important for determining pre-metamorphic depositional environments, and in this case links the sedimentary setting of the Morin terrane to the Adirondack Lowlands (New York, NY, USA). The identification of the Kilmar magnesite deposits as evaporitic also has implications for the formation of sedimentary exhalative base metal deposits in the Grenville Supergroup.
Methylene Blue Adsorption Study on Microcline Particles in the Function of Particle Size Range and Temperature
Authors: Pernyeszi Tímea , Farkas Roland , Kovács János
Published: September 2019

In this paper, the adsorption process of methylene blue has been investigated on microcline particles as a function of particle size and temperature. The characterization of microcline in the particle size ranges of 1−71 μm and 71−315 μm gained by sieving was proved using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy combined with energy-dispersive detector (SEM-EDS) in powder form, over laser diffraction measurements in aqueous suspension. The optimum dosage of adsorbent was 13.5 g/L in dye adsorption and the adsorption isotherms on both microcline size fractions were determined at this adsorbent concentration. The maximum adsorption capacities were in the range of 1.5–3.1 mg g−1 on microcline particles with supplementing evaluation of isotherms using the Langmuir model. Considering the problems of linearization of equations, the non-linear least-squares estimation can be strongly recommended for modeling adsorption-equilibrium. The adsorption isotherm determined at elevated temperature of 60−65 °C represents a breakpoint at around 20 mg L−1 of equilibrated dye concentration due to performing of a potential process of dye self-association. According to our experiments, the increase in temperature has an adverse effect on adsorption.