bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estudo comparativo da prevalência de alterações posturais na coluna vertebral em escolares do ensino fundamental do municí­pio de Quixadá/CE
Authors: Cerdeira Denilson Queiroz , Salgueiro Cristiane Clemente de Mello , Nunes José Ferreira
Published: December 2018

Introdução: A má postura caracteriza-se pela relação defeituosa entre as várias partes do corpo que produz uma maior tensão nas estruturas de apoio. Objetivo: Comparar a prevalência de alterações posturais da coluna vertebral em alunos do ensino fundamental de duas escolas, uma da rede privada e outra da rede pública, do municí­pio de Quixadá/CE. Métodos: Avaliaram-se 40 alunos voluntários de ambas as escolas, sendo 48% do sexo masculino e 52% do sexo feminino, com idades entre 11 e 15 anos. Analisaram-se com ajuda de bolas de isopor sobrepostas nos principais relevos anatômicos e em seguida fotografias, nas quatro vistas, anterior, posterior, lateral esquerda e lateral direita, de forma estática, posicionados atrás do simetrógrafo, analisando através do software Coreldraw, marcando as alterações mais evidentes. Resultados: Demonstraram a saúde deficiente da coluna vertebral em escolares, com a identificação de várias alterações posturais, sendo mais prevalente na instituição da rede municipal de Quixadá/CE. Sendo elas: hipercifose, desequilí­brio pélvico, desequilí­brio escapular, inclinação lateral cervical, anteriorização cervical e elevação unilateral do ombro. Entretanto, os alunos da instituição da rede privada apresentaram as mesmas alterações, sendo em um menor í­ndice. Conclusão: Observou-se que o fator socioeconômico das instituições e dos alunos que as compõe pode provocar futuras alterações posturais, devido às mobí­lias e a forma de transporte de materiais serem inadequadas. O estudo sugere a presença de um fisioterapeuta no ambiente escolar onde seria possí­vel intervir na evolução dessas alterações e a fixação dos desvios, visando o trabalho preventivo e educacional.Palavras-chave: postura, epidemiologia, escoliose, Fisioterapia.
Yields, Soil Health and Farm Profits under a Rice-Wheat System: Long-Term Effect of Fertilizers and Organic Manures Applied Alone and in Combination
Authors: Singh Vinod K. , Dwivedi Brahma S. , Mishra Rajendra P. , Shukla Arvind K. , Timsina Jagadish , Upadhyay Pravin K. , Shekhawat Kapila , Majumdar Kaushik , Panwar Azad S.
Published: December 2018

The rice-wheat system (RWS), managed over 10.5 Mha in the Indo-Gangetic Plains of India suffers from production fatigue caused by declining soil organic matter, multi-nutrient deficiencies and diminishing factor productivity. We, therefore, conducted a long-term field experiment (1998–1999 to 2017–2018) in Modipuram, India to study the effect of continuous use of farmyard manure (FYM) as an organic fertilizer (OF), mineral fertilizers applied alone (RDF) and their combination (IPNS), as well as the inclusion of forage berseem (IPNS+B) or forage cowpea (IPNS+C) on crop yield, soil health and profits. The long-term yield trends were positive (p < 0.05) in all treatments except the control (unfertilized) in rice, and the control and RDF in wheat. Although the yields of rice, wheat and RWS were highest under IPNS treatments (IPNS, IPNS+B, IPNS+C), the maximum annual yield increase in rice (9.2%) and wheat (13.7%) was obtained under OF. A linear regression fitted to the yield data under different IPNS options revealed a highly significant (p < 0.001) annual yield increase in rice (5.1 to 6.6%) and wheat (6.8 to 7.7%) crops. Continuous rice-wheat cropping with RDF brought an increase in soil bulk density (Db) over the initial Db at different soil profile depths, more so at depths of 30–45 cm, but inclusion of forage cowpea or berseem in every third year (IPNS+B or C) helped to decrease Db, not only in surface (0–15 cm) but also in sub-surface (15–30 and 30–45 cm depth) soil. Whereas soil organic carbon (SOC) increased under OF, IPNS and IPNS + legume (B or C) treatments, it remained unaffected under RDF after 20 RW cycles. The inclusion of legumes along with IPNS not only helped to trap the NO3–N from soil layers below 45 cm but also increased its retention in the upper soil (0–15 cm depth). On the other hand, RDF had a higher NO3–N content in the lower layers (beyond 45 cm depth), indicating downward NO3–N leaching beyond the root zone. A build-up of Olsen-P was noticed under RDF at different time intervals. The soil exchangeable K and available S contents were maximal under OF and IPNS options, whereas a decline in DTPA extractable-Zn was recorded under OF. Overall, RWS economics revealed that OF treatment involved the maximum cost of cultivation (US$1174 ha−1) with the least economic net return (US$1211 ha−1). Conversely, IPNS + legume (B or C) had lowest cost of cultivation (US$707 to 765 ha−1) and a significantly higher (p < 0.05) net return (US$2233 to 2260 ha−1). The study, thus, underlines the superiority of IPNS over RDF or OF; the inclusion of legumes gives an added advantage in terms of production sustainability and soil health. Further studies involving IPNS ingredients other than FYM is needed to develop location-specific IPNS recommendations.
Single-Domain Antibodies and Their Formatting to Combat Viral Infections
Authors: De Vlieger Dorien , Ballegeer Marlies , Rossey Iebe , Schepens Bert , Saelens Xavier
Published: December 2018

Since their discovery in the 1990s, single-domain antibodies (VHHs), also known as Nanobodies®, have changed the landscape of affinity reagents. The outstanding solubility, stability, and specificity of VHHs, as well as their small size, ease of production and formatting flexibility favor VHHs over conventional antibody formats for many applications. The exceptional ease by which it is possible to fuse VHHs with different molecular modules has been particularly explored in the context of viral infections. In this review, we focus on VHH formats that have been developed to combat viruses including influenza viruses, human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1), and human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Such formats may significantly increase the affinity, half-life, breadth of protection of an antiviral VHH and reduce the risk of viral escape. In addition, VHHs can be equipped with effector functions, for example to guide components of the immune system with high precision to sites of viral infection.
Computational Prediction of the Epitopes of HA1 Protein of Influenza Viruses to its Neutralizing Antibodies
Authors: Zeng Xiaoyan , Legge Fiona S. , Huang Chao , Zhang Xiao , Jiao Yongjun , Treutlein Herbert R. , Zeng Jun
Published: December 2018

In this work, we have used a new method to predict the epitopes of HA1 protein of influenza virus to several antibodies HC19, CR9114, BH151 and 4F5. While our results reproduced the binding epitopes of H3N2 or H5N1 for the neutralizing antibodies HC19, CR9114, and BH151 as revealed from the available crystal structures, additional epitopes for these antibodies were also suggested. Moreover, the predicted epitopes of H5N1 HA1 for the newly developed antibody 4F5 are located at the receptor binding domain, while previous study identified a region 76-WLLGNP-81 as the epitope. The possibility of antibody recognition of influenza virus via different mechanism by binding to different epitopes of an antigen is also discussed.
Energy-Efficient Optimization Design for the Multi-Color LED Based Visible Light Communication Systems under Illumination Constraints
Authors: Zuo Yu , Zhang Jian
Published: December 2018

Visible light communications (VLCs) utilizing multi-color light-emitting diodes (LEDs) can achieve a high modulation bandwidth and high-quality illumination compared with phosphor-converted LEDs, which have attracted much attention. However, the spectrum overlapping of different colors may cause the crosstalk problem, which should be considered in the practical multi-color LED-based VLC systems. Due to the ever-increasing energy consumption, the interest in an energy-saving communication technique has further increased. In this paper, in order to maximize energy efficiency, an optimization problem of the optical power allocation scheme is formulated for the multi-color LED-based VLC systems under the necessary communication requirements and illumination constraints with luminance, chromaticity, and signal to interference plus noise ratio (SINR) constraints. Simulation results indicate that the proposed optimal power allocation scheme can reduce energy consumption while satisfying the illumination and communication requirements.
Graphene Oxide/Polystyrene Bilayer Gate Dielectrics for Low-Voltage Organic Field-Effect Transistors
Authors: Nam Sooji , Jeong Yong Jin , Kim Joo Yeon , Yang Hansol , Jang Jaeyoung
Published: December 2018

Here, we report on the use of a graphene oxide (GO)/polystyrene (PS) bilayer as a gate dielectric for low-voltage organic field-effect transistors (OFETs). The hydrophilic functional groups of GO cause surface trapping and high gate leakage, which can be overcome by introducing a layer of PS—a hydrophobic polymer—onto the top surface of GO. The GO/PS gate dielectric shows reduced surface roughness and gate leakage while maintaining a high capacitance of 37.8 nF cm−2. The resulting OFETs show high-performance operation with a high mobility of 1.05 cm2 V−1 s−1 within a low operating voltage of −5 V.
Process Design of the Antioxidant Shuidouchi and Its Effect on Preventing Dextran Sulfate Sodium (DSS)-Induced Colitis in Mice via Antioxidant Activity
Authors: Zhang Jing , Li Qin , Wei Yang , Long Xingyao , Mu Jianfei , Pan Yanni , Zhao Xin
Published: December 2018

Shuidouchi is a traditionally fermented soybean product in China. Shuidouchi production requires a variety of processes; however, the production process has not been standardized. It can be developed into high-quality products with enhanced health effects by improving the design of its fermentation process and increasing the content of its active ingredients. In this study, a single-factor experiment was conducted that established different process conditions to determine the fermentation conditions that achieve the highest content of active ingredients and the best in vitro antioxidant effect. The effect of Shuidouchi on the prevention of dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis in mice was also observed. The obtained results indicated that the optimal process conditions involved soaking for 12 h, placement in a glass container, and fermentation at 35 °C for 48 h. Shuidouchi that was fermented under such conditions had the highest level of soybean isoflavones and exerted greater antioxidant effects than if fermented under other conditions. The Shuidouchi extract (soaking twice the quantity of water for 12 h, placing in a glass container, and fermenting at 35 °C for 48 h) obtained by using the optimal fermentation process can prevent the shortening of the colon and increase the weight-to-length ratio of the colon that is caused by colitis. Shuidouchi extraction not only effectively reduces the disease activity index and the levels of serum endothelin (ET), substance P (SP), and interleukin-10 (IL-10), it also increases the levels of somatostatin (SS), vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), and interleukin-2 (IL-2) of mice with colitis. In addition, Shuidouchi extraction increased the levels of glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in colitis mice; in contrast, Shuidouchi decreased the levels of myeloperoxidase (MPO) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in the colon of mice with colitis. Further detection of mRNA in colon tissues showed that Shuidouchi extraction can upregulate the expression of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), c-Kit, and the stem cell factor (SCF). Furthermore, it can downregulate the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), interleukin-8 (IL-8), and C-X-C chemokine receptor type 2 (CXCR2) in the colon of mice with colitis. Further experimental results showed that Shuidouchi could reduce the protein expression of interleukin 6 (IL-6), IL-12, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in colitic mice. Therefore, the improved processing of Shuidouchi inhibits colitis, which is directly related to the high content of soybean isoflavones.
Evaluation and Optimization of Task-oriented Measurement Uncertainty for Coordinate Measuring Machines Based on Geometrical Product Specifications
Authors: Cheng Yinbao , Wang Zhongyu , Chen Xiaohuai , Li Yaru , Li Hongyang , Li Hongli , Wang Hanbin
Published: December 2018

Measuring instruments are intended to be intelligent, precise, multi-functional and developing multidirectionally, scientific, and reasonable; the reliable evaluation of measurement uncertainty of precision instruments is also becoming more and more difficult, and the evaluation of the Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM) measurement uncertainty is among the typical problems. Based on Geometric Product Specification (GPS), this paper has systematically studied the CMM uncertainty for evaluating the size and geometrical errors oriented toward measurement tasks, and thus has realized the rapid and reliable evaluation of the CMM uncertainty for task-oriented measurement. For overestimation of the CMM uncertainty for task-oriented measurements in the initial evaluation, a systematic optimization solution has been proposed. Finally, the feasibility and validity of the evaluation model and the optimization method have been verified by three different types of measurement examples of diameter, flatness and perpendicularity. It is typical and representative to systematically solve the problem of the CMM uncertainty for evaluating the measurement tasks targeted at dimensions and geometric errors, and the research contents can be effectively applied to solve the uncertainty evaluation problems of other precision instruments, which are of great practical significance not only for promoting the combination of modern uncertainty theory and practical applications but also for improving the application values of precision measurement instruments.
A New Modified Firefly Algorithm for Optimizing a Supply Chain Network Problem
Authors: Memari Ashkan , Ahmad Robiah , Akbari Jokar Mohammad Reza , Abdul Rahim Abd. Rahman
Published: December 2018

Firefly algorithm is among the nature-inspired optimization algorithms. The standard firefly algorithm has been successfully applied to many engineering problems. However, this algorithm might be stuck in stagnation (the solutions do not enhance anymore) or possibly fall in premature convergence (fall into the local optimum) in searching space. It seems that both issues could be connected to exploitation and exploration. Excessive exploitation leads to premature convergence, while excessive exploration slows down the convergence. In this study, the classical firefly algorithm is modified such that make a balance between exploitation and exploration. The purposed modified algorithm ranks and sorts the initial solutions. Next, the operators named insertion, swap and reversion are utilized to search the neighbourhood of solutions in the second group, in which all these operators are chosen randomly. After that, the acquired solutions combined with the first group and the firefly algorithm finds the new potential solutions. A multi-echelon supply chain network problem is chosen to investigate the decisions associated with the distribution of multiple products that are delivered through multiple distribution centres and retailers and demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed algorithm.
Japan’s New Left and New Wave. An Ideology’s Perspective as an Alternative to That of National Cinema
Authors: De Vargas Ferran
Published: December 2018

Starting from the perspective that national cinema is not a neutral concept, but rather a film expression with ideological implications, in this article I will argue that what should be analysed in films is not what connects them to certain nations, but with certain ideologies. Rather than claiming the national nature of a film, it is more accurate to identify for instance elements of a national ideology underlying the film. It can be more enriching to analyse different film trends that are based on their connections with different ideologies, thus stressing their political nature, rather than highlighting cultural or geographical features in order to determine the supposedly natural outline of national cinemas. From this point of view, I consider the Japanese New Wave cinema of the 1960s and early 1970s to be a reflection of Japan’s coetaneous New Left ideology. In order to illustrate this political reading of the Japanese New Wave, I focus on the analysis of a paradigmatic film: Eros + Massacre (Erosu purasu Gyakusatsu 1969), directed by Yoshida Kijū.
Optimising Cancer Vaccine Design in Sarcoma
Authors: Pender Alexandra , Jones Robin , Pollack Seth
Published: December 2018

Immunotherapeutics are increasingly recognized as a key tool in the armamentarium against malignancy. The success of immune checkpoint-targeting drugs and adoptive cell therapy has refocused attention on the potential anti-cancer effect of eliciting a tumour-specific immunological response. Sarcomas are a rare and diverse group of tumours with a limited prognosis in advanced disease despite systemic therapeutics. Various vaccine strategies including peptide vaccines against cancer testis antigens, dendritic cell vaccines, and viral vectors have been trialled in sarcoma with growing evidence of efficacy. Here, we review the principles of successful vaccine development and how these have been applied thus far to the treatment of sarcoma.
The Potential for Cancer Immunotherapy in Targeting Surgery-Induced Natural Killer Cell Dysfunction
Authors: Market Marisa , Baxter Katherine E. , Angka Leonard , Kennedy Michael A. , Auer Rebecca C.
Published: December 2018

Natural Killer (NK) cells are granular lymphocytes of the innate immune system that are able to recognize and kill tumor cells without undergoing clonal selection. Discovered over 40 years ago, they have since been recognized to possess both cytotoxic and cytokine-producing effector functions. Following trauma, NK cells are suppressed and their effector functions are impaired. This is especially important for cancer patients undergoing the removal of solid tumors, as surgery has shown to contribute to the development of metastasis and cancer recurrence postoperatively. We have recently shown that NK cells are critical mediators in the formation of metastasis after surgery. While research into the mechanism(s) responsible for NK cell dysfunction is ongoing, knowledge of these mechanisms will pave the way for perioperative therapeutics with the potential to improve cancer outcomes by reversing NK cell dysfunction. This review will discuss mechanisms of suppression in the postoperative environment, including hypercoagulability, suppressive soluble factors, the expansion of suppressive cell populations, and how this affects NK cell biology, including modulation of cell surface receptors, the potential for anergy, and immunosuppressive NK cell functions. This review will also outline potential immunotherapies to reverse postoperative NK dysfunction, with the goal of preventing surgery-induced metastasis.
Polymer Capsules for Enzymatic Catalysis in Confined Environments
Authors: Cuomo Francesca , Ceglie Andrea , De Leonardis Antonella , Lopez Francesco
Published: December 2018

Catalysis is at the base of a series of biological and technological application processes. In recent years, the tendency has developed to carry out catalyzed reactions within confined structures, thus forming systems called micro or nanoreactors. Compartmentalized structures are cavities delimited by a wall where specific functions are introduced with a defined concentration and in the desired sites. These containers are generally referred to as nano or microcapsules, assuming the function of reactors in the presence of chemical reactions. Among the various types of existing structures, one of the most interesting is represented by systems made with polymers. This review aims to highlight some of the current advances in the use of functionalized structures that are useful for catalysis reactions, paying particular attention to polymer capsules and enzymes. The built-up methods used for the production of polymer capsules, as well as the aspects that influence membrane permeability and reactivity to environmental conditions, are discussed. Recent advances on biocatalysis confined in polymeric capsules are illustrated, and the strengths and weaknesses of the principal nanoreactors are considered.
The Autophagy-Lysosomal Pathways and Their Emerging Roles in Modulating Proteostasis in Tumors
Authors: Dong Zhen , Cui Hongjuan
Published: December 2018

In normal physiological condition, the maintenance of cellular proteostasis is a prerequisite for cell growth, functioning, adapting to changing micro-environments, and responding to extracellular stress. Cellular proteostasis is maintained by specific proteostasis networks (PNs) to prevent protein misfolding, aggregating, and accumulating in subcellular compartments. Commonly, the PNs are composed of protein synthesis, molecular chaperones, endoplasmic reticulum (ER), unfolded protein response (UPR), stress response pathways (SRPs), secretions, ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS), and autophagy-lysosomal pathways (ALPs). Although great efforts have been made to explore the underlying detailed mechanisms of proteostasis, there are many questions remain to explore, especially in proteostasis regulated by the ALPs. Proteostasis out-off-balance is correlated with various human diseases such as diabetes, stroke, inflammation, hypertension, pulmonary fibrosis, and Alzheimer’s disease. Enhanced regulation of PNs is observed in tumors, thereby indicating that proteostasis may play a pivotal role in tumorigenesis and cancer development. Recently, inhibitors targeting the UPS have shown to be failed in solid tumor treatment. However, there is growing evidence showing that the ALPs play important roles in regulation of proteostasis alone or with a crosstalk with other PNs in tumors. In this review, we provide insights into the proteostatic process and how it is regulated by the ALPs, such as macroautophagy, aggrephagy, chaperone-mediated autophagy, microautophagy, as well as mitophagy during tumor development.
The Effect of a Gear Oil on Abrasion, Scuffing, and Pitting of the DLC-Coated 18CrNiMo7-6 Steel
Authors: Michalczewski Remigiusz , Kalbarczyk Marek , Mańkowska-Snopczyńska Anita , Osuch-Słomka Edyta , Piekoszewski Witold , Snarski-Adamski Andrzej , Szczerek Marian , Tuszyński Waldemar , Wulczyński Jan , Wieczorek Andrzej
Published: December 2018

The transmissions of mining conveyors are exposed to very harsh conditions. These are primarily related to the contamination of the gear oil with hard particles coming from coal and lignite, which can cause intensive abrasive wear, scuffing, and even pitting, limiting the life of gears. One of the ways to prevent this problem is the deposition of a wear-resistant coating onto gear teeth. However, a proper choice of gear oil is an important issue. The abrasion, scuffing, and pitting tests were performed using simple, model specimens. A pin and vee block tester was employed for research on abrasion and scuffing. To test pitting, a modified four-ball pitting tester was used, where the top ball was replaced with a cone. The test pins, vee blocks, and cones were made of 18CrNiMo7-6 case-hardened steel. A new W-DLC/CrN coating was tested. It was deposited on the vee blocks and cones. For lubrication, three commercial industrial gear oils were used: A mineral oil, and two synthetic ones with polyalphaolefin (PAO) or polyalkylene glycol (PAG) bases. The results show that, to minimize the tendency forabrasion, scuffing, and pitting, the (W-DLC/CrN)-8CrNiMo7-6 tribosystems should be lubricated by the PAO gear oil.
III-V-Based Optoelectronics with Low-Cost Dynamic Hydride Vapor Phase Epitaxy
Authors: Simon John , Schulte Kevin L. , Horowitz Kelsey A. W. , Remo Timothy , Young David L. , Ptak Aaron J.
Published: December 2018

Silicon is the dominant semiconductor in many semiconductor device applications for a variety of reasons, including both performance and cost. III-V materials exhibit improved performance compared to silicon, but currently, they are relegated to applications in high-value or niche markets, due to the absence of a low-cost, high-quality production technique. Here we present an advance in III-V materials synthesis, using a hydride vapor phase epitaxy process that has the potential to lower III-V semiconductor deposition costs, while maintaining the requisite optoelectronic material quality that enables III-V-based technologies to outperform Si. We demonstrate the impacts of this advance by addressing the use of III-Vs in terrestrial photovoltaics, a highly cost-constrained market.
Dynamics Analysis of a New Fractional-Order Hopfield Neural Network with Delay and Its Generalized Projective Synchronization
Authors: Hu Han-Ping , Wang Jia-Kun , Xie Fei-Long
Published: December 2018

In this paper, a new three-dimensional fractional-order Hopfield-type neural network with delay is proposed. The system has a unique equilibrium point at the origin, which is a saddle point with index two, hence unstable. Intermittent chaos is found in this system. The complex dynamics are analyzed both theoretically and numerically, including intermittent chaos, periodicity, and stability. Those phenomena are confirmed by phase portraits, bifurcation diagrams, and the Largest Lyapunov exponent. Furthermore, a synchronization method based on the state observer is proposed to synchronize a class of time-delayed fractional-order Hopfield-type neural networks.
An FPGA-Oriented Baseband Modulator Architecture for 4G/5G Communication Scenarios
Authors: Lopes Ferreira Mário , Canas Ferreira João
Published: December 2018

The next evolution in cellular communications will not only improve upon the performance of previous generations, but also represent an unparalleled expansion in the number of services and use cases. One of the foundations for this evolution is the design of highly flexible, versatile, and resource-/power-efficient hardware components. This paper proposes and evaluates an FPGA-oriented baseband processing architecture suitable for communication scenarios such as non-contiguous carrier aggregation, centralized Cloud Radio Access Network (C-RAN) processing, and 4G/5G waveform coexistence. Our system is upgradeable, resource-efficient, cost-effective, and provides support for three 5G waveform candidates. Exploring Dynamic Partial Reconfiguration (DPR), the proposed architecture expands the design space exploration beyond the available hardware resources on the Zynq xc7z020 through hardware virtualization. Additionally, Dynamic Frequency Scaling (DFS) allows for run-time adjustment of processing throughput and reduces power consumption up to 88%. The resource overhead for DPR and DFS is residual, and the reconfiguration latency is two orders of magnitude below the control plane latency requirements proposed for 5G communications.
A New Dynamic Model to Predict Transient and Steady State PV Temperatures Taking into Account the Environmental Conditions
Authors: Kaplanis Socrates , Kaplani Eleni
Published: December 2018

Photovoltaic (PV) cell and module temperature profiles, Tc and Tpv, respectively, developed under solar irradiance were predicted and measured both at transient and steady state conditions. The predicted and measured Tc or Tpv covered both a bare c-Si PV cell, by SOLARTEC, at laboratory conditions using a solar light simulator, as well as various c-Si and pc-Si modules (SM55, Bioenergy 195W, Energy Solutions 125W) operating in field conditions. The time constants, τ, of the Tc and Tpv profiles were determined by the proposed model and calculated using the experimentally obtained profiles for both the bare PV cell and PV modules. For model validation, the predicted steady state and transient temperature profiles were compared with experimental ones and also with those generated from other models. The effect of the ambient temperature, Ta, wind speed, vw, and the solar irradiance, IT, on the model performance, as well as of the mounting geometries, was investigated and incorporated in the prediction model. The predicted temperatures had the best matching to the measured ones in comparison to those from six other models. The model developed is applicable to any geographical site and environmental conditions.
Assessment of Community Fish Refuge Management Practice in the Siem Reap Province of Cambodia
Authors: Phala Chea , Sarin Tey , Suvedi Murari , Ghimire Ramjee
Published: December 2018

The Community Fish Refuge (CFR) is a fish conservation measure that is intended to improve the productivity of rice field fisheries and provide safe refuges for fish during the dry season. Cambodia’s Fisheries Administration aims to develop one well-working CFR in every 1200 communes by 2019. This study assesses the current situation of the rice field fisheries in the Srey Snam district, Siem Reap province, examines community members’ awareness of fish refuge management; and examines the socioeconomic impacts of the CFR among its beneficiaries. Data collected by interviewing 120 households reveal that 85 percent of respondents pursued rice field fishery as part-time work, catching on average 5.2 kg of fish daily during the ten-month harvest period. Most fish products were used for home consumption. Total household saving and income from fish production significantly increased after community members joined CFRs. Respondents’ expenditures, savings and assets also increased after CFR intervention, indicating improvements in livelihood. Illegal fishing and budgetary constraint to implementing CFR interventions are the pressing problems facing the users. The paper ends by outlining measures that could help strengthen and sustain CFRs.
Nutritional and Microbiological Quality of Tiger Nut Tubers (Cyperus esculentus), Derived Plant-Based and Lactic Fermented Beverages
Authors: Roselló-Soto Elena , Garcia Cyrielle , Fessard Amandine , Barba Francisco J. , Munekata Paulo E. S. , Lorenzo Jose M. , Remize Fabienne
Published: December 2018

Tiger nut (Cyperus esculentus) is a tuber that can be consumed raw or processed into beverages. Its nutritional composition shows a high content of lipid and dietary fiber, close to those of nuts, and a high content of starch, like in other tubers. Tiger nuts also contain high levels of phosphorus, calcium, and phenolic compounds, which contribute to their antioxidant activity. From those characteristics, tiger nuts and derived beverages are particularly relevant to limit food insecurity in regions where the plant can grow. In Europe and United States, the tiger nut derived beverages are of high interest as alternatives to milk and for gluten-free diets. Fermentation or addition of probiotic cultures to tiger nut beverages has proven the ability of lactic acid bacteria to acidify the beverages. Preliminary sensory assays concluded that acceptable products are obtained. In the absence of pasteurization, the safety of tiger nut-based beverages is not warranted. In spite of fermentation, some foodborne pathogens or mycotoxigenic fungi have been observed in fermented beverages. Further studies are required to select a tailored bacterial cocktail which would effectively dominate endogenous flora, preserve bioactive compounds and result in a well-accepted beverage.
Capillary Polypropylene Membranes for Membrane Distillation
Authors: Gryta Marek
Published: December 2018

Only nonwetted porous membranes can be used in membrane distillation. The possibility of application in this process the capillary polypropylene membranes manufactured by thermally-induced phase separation was studied. The performance of a few types of membranes available commercially was presented. The resistance of the membranes to wetting was tested in the continuous process of water desalination. These studies were carried out for 1000 h without module cleaning. The presence of scaling layer on the membranes surface was confirmed by Scanning Electron Microscope observations. Both the permeate flux and distillate conductivity were almost not varied after the studied period of time, what indicates that the used membranes maintained their nonwettability, and the negative influence of scaling was limited. The role of surface porosity on the pore wetting and influence of membrane wettability on the quality of the distillate obtained were discussed.
Liquid Chromatography Analysis of Common Nutritional Components, in Feed and Food
Authors: Cortés-Herrera Carolina , Artavia Graciela , Leiva Astrid , Granados-Chinchilla Fabio
Published: December 2018

Food and feed laboratories share several similarities when facing the implementation of liquid-chromatographic analysis. Using the experience acquired over the years, through application chemistry in food and feed research, selected analytes of relevance for both areas were discussed. This review focused on the common obstacles and peculiarities that each analyte offers (during the sample treatment or the chromatographic separation) throughout the implementation of said methods. A brief description of the techniques which we considered to be more pertinent, commonly used to assay such analytes is provided, including approaches using commonly available detectors (especially in starter labs) as well as mass detection. This manuscript consists of three sections: feed analysis (as the start of the food chain); food destined for human consumption determinations (the end of the food chain); and finally, assays shared by either matrices or laboratories. Analytes discussed consist of both those considered undesirable substances, contaminants, additives, and those related to nutritional quality. Our review is comprised of the examination of polyphenols, capsaicinoids, theobromine and caffeine, cholesterol, mycotoxins, antibiotics, amino acids, triphenylmethane dyes, nitrates/nitrites, ethanol soluble carbohydrates/sugars, organic acids, carotenoids, hydro and liposoluble vitamins. All analytes are currently assayed in our laboratories.
Employment Status and Self-Reported Unmet Healthcare Needs among South Korean Employees
Authors: Ha Rangkyoung , Jung-Choi Kyunghee , Kim Chang-Yup
Published: December 2018

We aimed to examine the association between employment status and self-reported unmet healthcare needs and to identify factors influencing self-reported unmet healthcare needs by employment status. Nationally representative data from the 2012 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were used. Participants were classified by employment status as either permanent or precarious workers. Explanatory variables included sociodemographic, labor-related, and health-related factors. Multivariate logistic regression ascertained the association between employment status and self-reported unmet healthcare needs and explanatory factors associated with self-reporting of unmet healthcare needs. Precarious workers had a higher prevalence of self-reported unmet healthcare needs than permanent workers, with a statistically significant odds ratio (OR) (1.74; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.19–2.54). Male precarious workers working >40 h per week were more likely to self-report unmet needs than male precarious workers working <40 h (OR, 3.90; 95% CI, 1.40–10.87). Female precarious workers with a lower household income were about twice as likely to self-report unmet needs. Working hours and household income were significantly influential factors determining self-reporting of unmet healthcare needs, especially among precarious workers. Policy interventions to improve access to healthcare for precarious workers are needed.
Neuroanatomical Quantitative Proteomics Reveals Common Pathogenic Biological Routes between Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD)
Authors: Iridoy Marina Oaia , Zubiri Irene , Zelaya María Victoria , Martinez Leyre , Ausín Karina , Lachen-Montes Mercedes , Santamaría Enrique , Fernandez-Irigoyen Joaquín , Jericó Ivonne
Published: December 2018

(1) Background: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) are neurodegenerative disorders with an overlap in clinical presentation and neuropathology. Common and differential mechanisms leading to protein expression changes and neurodegeneration in ALS and FTD were studied trough a deep neuroproteome mapping of the spinal cord. (2) Methods: A liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis of the spinal cord from ALS-TAR DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP-43) subjects, ubiquitin-positive frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD-U) subjects and controls without neurodegenerative disease was performed. (3) Results: 281 differentially expressed proteins were detected among ALS versus controls, while 52 proteins were dysregulated among FTLD-U versus controls. Thirty-three differential proteins were shared between both syndromes. The resulting data was subjected to network-driven proteomics analysis, revealing mitochondrial dysfunction and metabolic impairment, both for ALS and FTLD-U that could be validated through the confirmation of expression levels changes of the Prohibitin (PHB) complex. (4) Conclusions: ALS-TDP-43 and FTLD-U share molecular and functional alterations, although part of the proteostatic impairment is region- and disease-specific. We have confirmed the involvement of specific proteins previously associated with ALS (Galectin 2 (LGALS3), Transthyretin (TTR), Protein S100-A6 (S100A6), and Protein S100-A11 (S100A11)) and have shown the involvement of proteins not previously described in the ALS context (Methanethiol oxidase (SELENBP1), Peptidyl-prolyl cis-trans isomerase NIMA-interacting 1 (PIN-1), Calcyclin-binding protein (CACYBP) and Rho-associated protein kinase 2 (ROCK2)).
Standardized Aronia melanocarpa Extract as Novel Supplement against Metabolic Syndrome: A Rat Model
Authors: JAKOVLJEVIC Vladimir , Milic Petar , Bradic Jovana , Jeremic Jovana , Zivkovic Vladimir , Srejovic Ivan , Nikolic Turnic Tamara , Milosavljevic Isidora , Jeremic Nevena , Bolevich Sergey , Labudovic Borovic Milica , Mitrovic Miroslav , Vucic Vesna
Published: December 2018

The aim of our study was to examine the effects of different dietary strategies, high-fat (HFd) or standard diet (Sd) alone or in combination with standardized oral supplementation (0.45 mL/kg/day) of Aronia melanocarpa extract (SAE) in rats with metabolic syndrome (MetS). SAE is an official product of pharmaceutical company Pharmanova (Belgrade, Serbia); however, the procedure for extraction was done by EU-Chem company (Belgrade, Serbia). Rats were divided randomly into six groups: control with Sd, control with Sd and SAE, MetS with HFd, MetS with HFd and SAE, MetS with Sd and MetS with Sd and SAE during 4 weeks. At the end of the 4-week protocol, cardiac function and liver morphology were assessed, while in the blood samples glucose, insulin, iron levels and systemic redox state were determined. Our results demonstrated that SAE had the ability to lower blood pressure and exert benefits on in vivo and ex vivo heart function. Moreover, SAE improved glucose tolerance, attenuated pathological liver alterations and oxidative stress present in MetS. Obtained beneficial effects of SAE were more prominent in combination with changing dietary habits. Promising potential of SAE supplementation alone or in combination with different dietary protocols in triggering cardioprotection should be further examined in future.
Interaction of Diet and Ozone Exposure on Oxidative Stress Parameters within Specific Brain Regions of Male Brown Norway Rats
Authors: Valdez Joseph M. , Johnstone Andrew F. M. , Richards Judy E. , Schmid Judith E. , Royland Joyce E. , Kodavanti Prasada Rao S.
Published: December 2018

Oxidative stress (OS) contributes to the neurological and cardio/pulmonary effects caused by adverse metabolic states and air pollutants such as ozone (O3). This study explores the interactive effects of O3 and diet (high-fructose (FRUC) or high–fat (FAT)) on OS in different rat brain regions. In acute exposure, there was a decrease in markers of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in some brain regions by diet and not by O3. Total antioxidant substances (TAS) were increased in the cerebellum (CER) and frontal cortex (FC) and decreased in the striatum (STR) by both diets irrespective of O3 exposure. Protein carbonyls (PC) and total aconitase decreased in some brain regions irrespective of exposure. Following subacute exposure, an increase in markers of ROS was observed in both diet groups. TAS was increased in the FC (FAT only) and there was a clear O3 effect where TAS was increased in the FC and STR. Diet increased PC formation within the CER in the FAT group, while the hippocampus showed a decrease in PC after O3 exposure in controls. In general, these results indicate that diet/O3 did not have a global effect on brain OS parameters, but showed some brain region- and OS parameter-specific effects by diets.
Genome-Wide Analysis of Watermelon HSP20s and Their Expression Profiles and Subcellular Locations under Stresses
Authors: He Yanjun , Fan Min , Sun Yuyan , Li Lili
Published: December 2018

Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus L.), which is an economically important cucurbit crop that is cultivated worldwide, is vulnerable to various adverse environmental conditions. Small heat shock protein 20s (HSP20s) are the most abundant plant HSPs and they play important roles in various biotic and abiotic stress responses. However, they have not been systematically investigated in watermelon. In this study, we identified 44 watermelon HSP20 genes and analyzed their gene structures, conserved domains, phylogenetic relationships, chromosomal distributions, and expression profiles. All of the watermelon HSP20 proteins have a conserved the α-crystallin (ACD) domain. Half of the ClHSP20s arose through gene duplication events. Plant HSP20s were grouped into 18 subfamiles and a new subfamily, nucleo-cytoplasmic XIII (CXIII), was identified in this study. Numerous stress- and hormone-responsive cis-elements were detected in the putative promoter regions of the watermelon HSP20 genes. Different from that in other species, half of the watermelon HSP20s were repressed by heat stress. Plant HSP20s displayed diverse responses to different virus infections and most of the ClHSP20s were generally repressed by Cucumber green mottle mosaic virus (CGMMV). Some ClHSP20s exhibited similar transcriptional responses to abscisic acid, melatonin, and CGMMV. Subcellular localization analyses of six selected HSP20- green fluorescence protein fusion proteins revealed diverse subcellular targeting. Some ClHSP20 proteins were affected by CGMMV, as reflected by changes in the size, number, and distribution of fluorescent granules. These systematic analyses provide a foundation for elucidating the physiological functions and biological roles of the watermelon HSP20 gene family.
User-Personalized Review Rating Prediction Method Based on Review Text Content and User-Item Rating Matrix
Authors: Wang Bingkun , Chen Bing , Ma Li , Zhou Gaiyun
Published: December 2018

With the explosive growth of product reviews, review rating prediction has become an important research topic which has a wide range of applications. The existing review rating prediction methods use a unified model to perform rating prediction on reviews published by different users, ignoring the differences of users within these reviews. Constructing a separate personalized model for each user to capture the user’s personalized sentiment expression is an effective attempt to improve the performance of the review rating prediction. The user-personalized sentiment information can be obtained not only by the review text but also by the user-item rating matrix. Therefore, we propose a user-personalized review rating prediction method by integrating the review text and user-item rating matrix information. In our approach, each user has a personalized review rating prediction model, which is decomposed into two components, one part is based on review text and the other is based on user-item rating matrix. Through extensive experiments on Yelp and Douban datasets, we validate that our methods can significantly outperform the state-of-the-art methods.
Investigation of 1-Methylcytosine as a Ligand in Gold(III) Complexes: Synthesis and Protein Interactions
Authors: Beaton James , Farrell Nicholas P.
Published: December 2018

The HIV nucleocapsid protein NCp7 was previously shown to play a number of roles in the viral life cycle and was previously identified as a potential target for small molecule intervention. In this work, the synthesis of the previously unreported complexes [Au(dien)(1MeCyt)]3+, [Au(N-Medien)(1MeCyt)]3+, and [Au(dien)(Cyt)]3+ is detailed, and the interactions of these complexes with the models for NCp7 are described. The affinity for these complexes with the target interaction site, the “essential” tryptophan of the C-terminal zinc finger motif of NCp7, was investigated through the use of a fluorescence quenching assay and by 1H-NMR spectroscopy. The association of [Au(dien)(1MeCyt)]3+ as determined through fluorescence quenching is intermediate between the previously reported DMAP and 9-EtGua analogs, while the associations of [Au(N-Medien)(1MeCyt)]3+ and [Au(dien)(Cyt)]3+ are lower than the previously reported complexes. Additionally, NMR investigation shows that the self-association of relevant compounds is negligible. The specifics of the interaction with the C-terminal zinc finger were investigated by circular dichroism spectroscopy and electrospray-ionization mass spectrometry. The interaction is complete nearly immediately upon mixing, and the formation of AuxFn+ (x = 1, 2, or 4; F = apopeptide) concomitant with the loss of all ligands is observed. Additionally, oxidized dimerized peptide was observed for the first time as a product, indicating a reaction via a charge transfer mechanism.
Reply to the Comment on: Marco Cirillo The Memory of the Heart. J. Cardiovasc. Dev. Dis. 2018, 5, 55
Authors: Cirillo Marco
Published: December 2018

I was disappointed by Anderson’s comment on my recent review, a comment that I think derives from a too quick reading of the article. [...]
Autologous Platelet-Rich Plasma Treatment Enables Pregnancy for a Woman in Premature Menopause
Authors: Sfakianoudis Konstantinos , Simopoulou Mara , Nitsos Nikolaos , Rapani Anna , Pappas Athanasios , Pantou Agni , Chronopoulou Margarita , Deligeoroglou Efthymios , Koutsilieris Michael , Pantos Konstantinos
Published: December 2018

This report presents the case of a woman aged 40 who has experienced premature menopause from the age of 35. Having rejected oocyte donation, she opted for intraovarian injection of autologous platelet-rich plasma with the aim to rejuvenate the ovarian tissue and enable the employment of her own gametes through in-vitro fertilization. Six weeks following the autologous platelet-rich plasma treatment, a significant reduction in the patient’s follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels were noted. A natural in-vitro fertilization cycle led to a biochemical pregnancy, resulting in a spontaneous abortion at the 5th week of pregnancy. This is the first report of a successful autologous platelet-rich plasma application leading to pregnancy in menopause. This report uniquely contributes to the medical knowledge and challenges current practice in the context of infertility. The efficiency and safety of this treatment with regard to the reproductive system merits further investigation.