bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interactive effects of 1, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 and soy protein extract (SPE) on oral cancer growth in vitro: evidence for potential functional relationships.
Authors: Kingsley Karl , Keiserman Mark A. , Bergman Christine J.
Published: August 2018

Background: Previous studies have found specific soy isoflavones (Genistein, Daidzein, Glycitein) demonstrate anti-tumor properties against several cancer types, including oral cancer. Few studies have evaluated whole soy extract, containing a combination of these isoflavones and other bioreactive compounds, which may function synergistically and more effectively against oral cancers. Preliminary work by this group has now demonstrated whole soy protein extract (SPE) inhibits oral cancer cell growth specifically and selectively, through independent cell-cycle and apoptotic pathways. However, more recent evidence now suggests that ingestion of vitamin D3, either in dietary foods or supplements may potentiate the activity of soy components and their anti-tumor effects.Objective: The primary goal of this study was to investigate the interactive and inter-connected effects of 1, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 administration with the anti-proliferative effects of whole soy protein extract (SPE) on oral cancer and normal cell lines in vitro.Methods: Three oral squamous cell carcinoma cell lines (SCC15, SCC25, and CAL27) were treated with 1, 25-dihydroxy Vitamin D3 at physiological concentrations (10-125 nmol). Cell growth was then compared with cell treatment using soy protein extract (SPE) within the normal physiologic range (0 - 10 μM/L). Interactive effects were then evaluated using co-administration of SPE and 1, 25-dihydroxy Vitamin D3. Quantitative RT-PCR was performed at various time points to determine any changes in mRNA expression for key cell cycle and apoptotic signaling pathway regulators, including p53, c-myc, ornithine decarboxylase (ODC), caspase-2, caspase-8, and bax. Results: Administration of 1, 25-dihydroxy Vitamin D3 induced distinct dose-dependent, growth-inhibitory effects in all three oral cancer cell lines examined. These inhibitory effects were comparable to the overall range of growth inhibition induced by SPE. However, the combined effects of co-administration were far greater, suggesting the presence of synergistic relationships between these components. In addition, these results indicate that either treatment alone appeared to modulate mRNA expression of oral cancer cell-cycle promoters c-myc and ODC, as well as the caspase-dependent apoptosis pathway, while only 1, 25-dihydroxy Vitamin D3 administration appeared to influence the bax pathway. Conclusion: These results suggest that co-administration with 1, 25-dihydroxy Vitamin D3 and SPE may enhance their anti-tumor effects. This study may help to explain, in part, why balanced diets rich in fruits, vegetables, and soy protein, are associated with protection against development and progression of oral cancers, although further study is needed to develop specific public health recommendations for oral cancer treatment and prevention.Key words: vitamin D, soy extract, whole soy protein, oral cancer, growth inhibition.
Cost-effectiveness analysis for the treatment of chronic kidney disease with low-protein diet
Authors: Mennini F. S. , Russo S. , Marcellusi A. , Palazzo F. , Quintaliani P.
Published: August 2018

Background: Several clinical studies have shown that a low protein diet in patients with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), delays the natural progression of the end stage renal disease (ESRD) and the necessary treatment of chronic dialysis.Objective: The aim of this study is to estimate the cost-effectiveness of a low protein diet compared with no dietary treatment in patients with CKD stage 4 and 5 after 2, 3, 5 and 10 years.Method: A Markov model was developed to estimate costs and QALYs associated with low protein diet versus no treatment for patients with CKD stage 4-5. The transition probability was estimated on data from seven studies which determined the efficacy of low protein diets in delaying the need to start maintenance dialysis. The Quality Adjusted Life Years (QALYs) scores used were estimated with the Time Trade Off technique. The annual cost of dialysis per patient was estimated to be approximately €34,072. The costs of a low-protein diet was €1,440 per patient per year in the Lazio Region (conservative assumptions). Results: Treatment with a low-protein diet was more effective in terms of QALYs: the difference was always in favour of dietary treatment from a 0.09 QALYS after the first two years, 0.16 after three years, 0.36 after five years and up to a differential of 0.93 year after the first 10 years of treatment. In terms of cost-effectiveness, the dietary treatment was always dominant in all intervals considered. The dominance is due to the fact that the treatment is more effective in terms of QALYs and at the same time is less expensive.Conclusion: The results of these simulations indicate that the treatment of CKD patients with a low protein diet is cost effective relative to no treatment in an Italian setting. Further studies should test this model in other countries with different dialysis costs and dietary support.Key words: chronic kidney disease, low-protein diet, cost-effectiveness of a low protein diet
Molecular mechanism of intracellular lipid accumulation: Suppressive effect of PycnogenolR in liver cells
Authors: Ikuyama Shoichiro , Fan Bin , Gu Jian-Qiu , Mukae Kumiko , Watanabe Hideyuki
Published: August 2018

Cells are physiologically ready to accumulate lipids such as triacylglycerides in the cytoplasm. Five classes of perilipin (PLIN) family proteins are known to be involved in the process of intracellular lipid accumulation. PLIN2 is expressed ubiquitously including adipocytes, hepatocytes and macrophages. Over-expression of PLIN2 is demonstrated in the lesions of fatty liver diseases and atherosclerosis. Suppression of PLIN2 expression prevents from developing these pathological conditions in animal models, suggesting that PLIN2 could be a therapeutic target molecule for excessive intracellular lipid accumulation which leads to various metabolic derangements. The PLIN2 gene promoter has two important cis-acting elements in close proximity:AP-1 element which mediates inflammatory signals and PPRE which mediates free fatty acid effect. In NMuLi mouse liver cells, FFA such as oleic acid requires both functional AP-1 and PPRE simultaneously to stimulate the promoter activity, indicating the presence of intimate interaction of inflammatory and metabolic signals on this gene. PycnogenolR, French maritime pine bark extracts, suppressed the oleic acid-induced PLIN2 expression and lipid accumulation in NMuLi cells. We found that PycnogenolR did not suppress the PLIN2 promoter activity or AP-1 binding to DNA. Instead, PycnogenolR facilitates the PLIN2 mRNA degradation, leading to suppression of lipid accumulation. This effect seems to be independent of antioxidant effect of PycnogenolR. We raise the idea that PLIN2 is a putative target molecule for prevention of pathological condition induced by excessive lipid accumulation, and this class of natural compounds could be putative therapeutic modalities.Key words: PycnogenolR, lipid droplet, perilipin, fatty liver disease
Vitamin B12 supplementation and cognitive scores in geriatric patients having Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Chauhan Komal , Agarwal Aditika
Published: August 2018

Background: The Neurodegenerative diseases are increasingly affecting the elderly with a severe impact on their brain health. There is a wide gap in supplementation based studies for increasing the cognition levels of the geriatric population especially in the developing countries like India, which are at extreme risk of developing neurological disorders. Vitamin B12 herein has caught much attention lately for improving the cognitive status. Literature has linked the possibility of alleviating neurological disorders in the elderly with effective vitamin B12 management. Abundant animal and human models have proved that supplementation of vitamin B12 is beneficial for the restoration of cognitive functions. Objective: To supplement vitamin B12 deficient mild cognitively impaired geriatric patients with injectable doses of vitamin B12 followed by impact evaluation. Methods: Screening of the mild cognitively impaired patients was carried out using the Mini-Mental State Examination and Yamaguchi Fox Pigeon Imitation test. Baseline information was elicited from the patients residing in urban Vadodara (a district in the state of Gujarat), India. This included socio-demographic, medical and drug history, anthropometric and physical activity pattern as well as biochemical parameters comprising of serum vitamin B12 and glycated haemoglobin profile. A sub-sample of 60 patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) demonstrating severe vitamin B12 deficiency were conveniently enrolled for injectable doses of Vitamin B12 in the dosage of 1,000 μg every day for one week, followed by 1,000 μg every week for 4 weeks & finishing with 1,000 μg for the remaining 4 months. Post six months intervention all the parameters were elicited. Results: Vitamin B12 supplementation resulted in a significant (p<0.001) improvement in the MMSE scores of the patients with a rise of 9.63% in the total patients. Gender-wise division also highlighted a significant increase (p<0.001) in the scores by 6.79% and 12.46% in overall males and females and a 10.20% and 8.24% rise for young-old (60-69 yrs) and old- old (70-85 yrs) categories, respectively. As a result, 27 patients progressed towards the category from the MCI state being assessed by MMSE scores. In the same manner, YGFPIT too demonstrated a 38% increase in normal with 35% males, 42% females, 41% young–old and 31% old-old moving to normal status. Thus, a total number of 28 patients progressed to the normal condition as per YGFPIT.Conclusion: Hence, vitamin B12 supplementation was found significantly effective in placing the serum vitamin B12 of MCI patients from the deficiency state to sufficient levels and in turn increased their performance in MMSE and YFPIT scores. Keywords: Mild Cognitive Impairment, vitamin B12, geriatrics, cognition
Influence of an elevated nutrition risk score in patients suffering from esophageal cancer following tumor resection
Authors: Bachmann J. , Riediger C. , Feith M. , Prokopchuk O. , Schultheiss K. , Friess H. , Martignoni M.E.
Published: August 2018

Background: Patients who suffer from malignant tumors of the esophagus and esophagogastric junction have 5-year survival rates of up to 83%, something that is documented in the early stages of cancer. Too often, weight loss is an underestimated sign for patients suffering from cancer on the upper gastrointestinal tract. Weight loss is associated with different adverse outcomes. Even after tumor resection, malnutrition remains a severe problem that still affects long-term disease free survivors.Material and methods: This study included the clinical courses of 205 patients suffering from cancer of the esophagus or the esophagogastric junction who were operated on between July 2007 and December 2009. On admission, the nutrition risk score was evaluated. Follow-up data were collected routinely. The aim of the underlying study was to show the prevalence of an elevated nutrition risk score (NRS) and to demonstrate its influence on perioperative mortality and morbidity. Furthermore, the relevance of an elevated nutrition risk score on the postoperative survival was analyzed.Results: More than a third (35.8%) of the patients included in this study had a nutrition risk score of at least three. A preoperative elevated nutrition risk score did not have a significant influence on perioperative morbidity or on 30-days mortality rate. In patients with early tumor stage UICC stage I a/b, an elevated risk score of 3 or more had a significant influence on postoperative survival. In contrast, in advanced tumor stages an increased NRS did not have a significant negative influence on survival within both UICC II a/b and UICC IIII a/b. Conclusions: Further studies are required to demonstrate whether a nutritional intervention can improve the survival rates of patients suffering from malignant tumors within the esophagus and in whom an operation has to be performed.Keywords: Weight loss, esophageal cancer, NRS
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study to examine the effects of high-isoflavone soybeans “Yukipirika” in climacteric women
Authors: Nishimura Mie , Sugawara Miwako , Kudo Masafumi , Nishihira Jun
Published: August 2018

Background: Soy isoflavones belong to a class of plant-based compounds known as phytoestrogens and effect menopausal symptoms and bone metabolism. We evaluated the effects of high-isoflavone soybeans (“Yukipirika”) in climacteric women.Methods: In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, we randomly selected 64 female subjects (aged 46–60 years) to consume products made from high-isoflavone soybeans (active test), low-isoflavone soybeans (Placebo 2), or wheat (Placebo 1). The simplified menopausal index (SMI) test, visual analog scale (VAS) of skin and hair conditions, joints functions, and bowel movements, hematological analysis, and urinalysis were performed at weeks 0, 4, and 8 during the study period. Results: Intake of high-isoflavone soybeans did not change bone metabolism parameters. However, a subsection of the SMI score was improved in the active test food group compared to the Placebo 2 food group. Additionally, VAS of skin conditions, joints functions, and bowel movements improved in the active test group compared to the Placebo 1 or Placebo 2 groups. Conclusion: These results suggest that the ingestion of high-isoflavone soybeans can improve skin conditions, joints functions, and bowel movements, in addition to menopausal symptoms.Keywords: bone metabolism; clinical trial; isoflavone; soybeans; menopausal symptoms; Yukipirika
ANÁLISE DAS PROPAGANDAS E REPORTAGENS RELACIONADAS À SEGURANÇA AUTOMOTIVA PUBLICADAS NA REVISTA QUATRO RODAS
Authors: Martins Diego Faria , Caldeira Tharcisio Alexandrino , Albino Andréia Aparecida
Published: August 2018

A sensação de insegurança no trânsito pode ser identificada pela constante divulgação de reportagens que a desencadeiam, bem como pela expressiva presença de propagandas de produtos de segurança automotiva em diversas mídias. Este trabalho buscou analisar a evolução de propagandas e reportagens sobre segurança automotiva nas edições da revista Quatro Rodas, investigando todas as 647 edições disponíveis online. A pesquisa recorreu à ANOVA, à Análise de Séries Temporais e à Análise de Conteúdo (AC) para analisar os dados. Os resultados mostraram um significativo aumento do percentual de propagandas sobre segurança desde 1990. As reportagens sobre segurança não expressaram comportamento semelhante. Identificou-se uma relação significativa entre o percentual de propagandas sobre segurança e seus próprios valores, defasados em três edições, evidenciando a influência das campanhas publicitárias durante este período. A AC constatou que anúncios relacionados às sensações de tranquilidade e alerta são os mais frequentes em todas as décadas.
A NECESSIDADE DE INTERPRETAÇÃO CONFORME A CONSTITUIÇÃO DO ARTIGO 170-A DO CÓDIGO TRIBUTÁRIO NACIONAL
Authors: Martins Sonia Leal
Published: August 2018

O artigo 170-A introduzido no Código Tributário Nacional pela Lei Complementar 104/2001 veda expressamente a compensação tributária antes do trânsito em julgado da decisão em que se pleiteia o reconhecimento do indébito. Em outros termos, o referido artigo não permite medida liminar para compensação de créditos tributários nas ações mandamentais ou tutela de urgência nas ações ordinárias de repetição de indébito. Com a implantação da sistemática de recursos extraordinário e especial repetitivos, através da Lei 11.418/2006, surgiu a necessidade da interpretação do referido artigo conforme a Constituição Federal para que este não alcance os casos em que o contribuinte tem a seu favor decisão judicial baseada em repercussão geral pelo Supremo Tribunal Federal ou recurso especial repetitivo pelo Superior Tribunal de Justiça. A metodologia a ser utilizada no presente estudo será a documental baseada em revistas e livros atualizados, bem como na jurisprudência e legislação pátria.
AVALIAÇÃO ECONÔMICO-FINANCEIRA DE PRODUÇÃO DE LEITE CAPRINO NA ZONA DA MATA MINEIRA
Authors: Leal Gustavo , Sampaio Danilo , Bessegato Lupércio França
Published: August 2018

Este artigo procura analisar a viabilidade econômico-financeira de sistemas de produção de leite de cabra na Zona da Mata Mineira, levando em consideração a atual conjuntura econômica do Brasil. Foram estimados Fluxos de Caixa para dois sistemas de produção com raças de cabras distintas: a Saanen (Sistema 1) e a Toggenburg (Sistema 2). Considerando os distintos coeficientes técnicos de produção, e os coeficientes financeiros estimados, apenas o Sistema 1 foi classificado como viável, apresentando um VPL de R$28.191,77, contra um VPL de (R$21.608,89) do Sistema 2. A fim de se analisar os riscos inerentes ao negócio, foi aplicada uma Simulação de Monte Carlo, que mostrou que o Sistema 1 de Produção possui 66,40% de chances de apresentar um VPL positivo, contra 39,5% do Sistema 2.
A PERDA DA CHANCE DE VIVER:
Authors: Nascimento Isabela Moreira Antunes do
Published: August 2018

O objetivo primordial deste artigo é travar uma discussão entre a prática de formas de abreviar a vida, sobretudo a eutanásia, sob a ótica da perda da chance de viver. Este buscou investigar, com amparo nos princípios jurídicos, fundamentalmente com base no Princípio da Dignidade da Pessoa Humana, se alguma forma de abreviação da vida seria aceitável ou se essas práticas dariam ensejo a indenizações pela Perda de uma Chance (de viver). Diante disso, o artigo perquiriu também, pela Bioética e pelo Biodireito, o que deveria prevalecer diante da ponderação entre o Princípio da Autonomia e o Princípio da Sacralidade da Vida, concluindo pela tendência à autodeterminação do indivíduo mas de forma parcimoniosa e não de forma absoluta. Quanto à metodologia, trata-se de uma pesquisa bibliográfica.
Chemical Constituents and Protection of Biodiversity of Corypha taliera Roxb., a Critically Endangered Plant of Bangladesh
Authors: Chowdhury Akhtaruzzaman , Alam Md Ashraful , Shajib Md Shafiullah , Mansur Mohammad Abdullah Al , Rashid Mohammad A
Published: August 2018

This article focuses on the chemical constituents and protection of biodiversity through plantation of saplings of Corypha taliera Roxb., a critically endangered plant of Bangladesh. Until 2010, the tree in the campus of University of Dhaka, used to be considered as the lone surviving species in the world in nature. Succesive chromatographic separation and purification of the methanol extract of air dried flowers of C. taliera provided β-sitosterol (1), β-amyrin (2), and betulinic acid (3) for the first time from its flowers. The structures of these purified compounds were established by extensive spectroscopic analysis and comparison of spectral data with published values as well as co-TLC with authentic samples. On the other hand, 500 mature seeds were sown in seed beds in the Medicinal Plant Garden of Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Dhaka, and Azimpur Government Officers' Quarter premises. After 40 days, the root was first seen to grow in its habitat and 85 days later the shoot developed up to 2.5 cm in height. The rate of germination was found to be 89-93%. The produced saplings were later on planted in different places of Bangladesh for conservation of the plant and protection of biodiversity by ex situ arrangement.Bangladesh Pharmaceutical Journal 20(2): 213-220, 2017
A Simhash-Based Integrative Features Extraction Algorithm for Malware Detection
Authors: Li Yihong , Liu Fangzheng , Du Zhenyu , Zhang Dubing
Published: August 2018

In the malware detection process, obfuscated malicious codes cannot be efficiently and accurately detected solely in the dynamic or static feature space. Aiming at this problem, an integrative feature extraction algorithm based on simhash was proposed, which combines the static information e.g., API (Application Programming Interface) calls and dynamic information (such as file, registry and network behaviors) of malicious samples to form integrative features. The experiment extracts the integrative features of some static information and dynamic information, and then compares the classification, time and obfuscated-detection performance of the static, dynamic and integrated features, respectively, by using several common machine learning algorithms. The results show that the integrative features have better time performance than the static features, and better classification performance than the dynamic features, and almost the same obfuscated-detection performance as the dynamic features. This algorithm can provide some support for feature extraction of malware detection.
Awareness and Benefits of Self-Curing Concrete in Construction Projects: Builders and Civil Engineers Perceptions
Authors: Nduka David O. , Ameh John O. , Joshua Opeyemi , Ojelabi Rapheal
Published: August 2018

Self-cured concrete is a type of concrete with a special ability to reduce autogenous shrinkage responsible for early-stage cracking. It is useful generally for the construction of high rise buildings and bridges. The application and use of this technique of curing concrete, however, depends on the level of awareness among stakeholders regarding the application of the technique and its benefits among other factors. This study, therefore, sets out to investigate the level of awareness of selected construction professionals regarding the self-curing concrete technique in addition to the benefits. A cross-sectional survey design method was embraced by giving out 115 questionnaires to builders and engineers in Lagos who were purposely selected. The data was subjected to descriptive statistics. The results indicate that about 21% of selected builders and civil engineers practicing in Lagos are not aware and familiar with the concept of self-curing technology while about 43.1% of the professionals who have the knowledge of SCT have never used it in their professional practice. In addition, lower permeability, reduced coefficients of thermal expansion, and improved microstructures of cementitious paste were perceived as the dominant benefits of the self-curing concrete method. The implication of this study to construction professionals in Nigeria is in developing capacities on innovation practices in high-strength concrete technologies that will make them strike a balance with international counterparts.
Breast Cancer and Its Relationship with the Microbiota
Authors: Fernández Mariana F. , Reina-Pérez Iris , Astorga Juan Manuel , Rodríguez-Carrillo Andrea , Plaza-Díaz Julio , Fontana Luis
Published: August 2018

The microorganisms that live symbiotically in human beings are increasingly recognized as important players in health and disease. The largest collection of these microorganisms is found in the gastrointestinal tract. Microbial composition reflects both genetic and lifestyle variables of the host. This microbiota is in a dynamic balance with the host, exerting local and distant effects. Microbial perturbation (dysbiosis) could contribute to the risk of developing health problems. Various bacterial genes capable of producing estrogen-metabolizing enzymes have been identified. Accordingly, gut microbiota is capable of modulating estrogen serum levels. Conversely, estrogen-like compounds may promote the proliferation of certain species of bacteria. Therefore, a crosstalk between microbiota and both endogenous hormones and estrogen-like compounds might synergize to provide protection from disease but also to increase the risk of developing hormone-related diseases. Recent research suggests that the microbiota of women with breast cancer differs from that of healthy women, indicating that certain bacteria may be associated with cancer development and with different responses to therapy. In this review, we discuss recent knowledge about the microbiome and breast cancer, identifying specific characteristics of the human microbiome that may serve to develop novel approaches for risk assessment, prevention and treatment for this disease.
Dynamic Process Behavior in Laser Chemical Micro Machining of Metals
Authors: Mehrafsun Salar , Messaoudi Hamza
Published: August 2018

Laser chemical machining (LCM) is a non-conventional processing method that enables a smooth and precise micro structuring of metallic surfaces. However, a high-quality removal is limited to a laser power window of some 100 mW. This is due to the high sensibility to removal disturbances, such as the deposition of metallic salts and oxides. In this work, the dynamic process behavior around the transition from a disturbance-free to a disturbed removal is investigated for the laser chemical machining of titanium (3.7024) and stainless steel (AISI 304) in different phosphoric acid solutions. Therefore, the removal cavities are recorded using confocal scanning microscopy and characterized regarding width, depth and quality in dependence of the laser power, feed velocity and electrolyte concentration. While the removal characteristics within the disturbance-free regime are found to be material-independent, the disturbed regime is strongly dependent on the tendency of the material to gas bubble adherence. Additional CCD records of the interaction zone reveal that the transition to the disturbed regime is accompanied by significant light reflections and thereby indicate the influence of adhering gas bubbles on disturbing the removal process. Moreover, typical removal disturbances are presented and discussed with regard to the responsible mechanisms for their occurrence.
Design of a Scaffold Parameter Selection System with Additive Manufacturing for a Biomedical Cell Culture
Authors: Rabionet Marc , Polonio Emma , Guerra Antonio J. , Martin Jessica , Puig Teresa , Ciurana Joaquim
Published: August 2018

Open-source 3D printers mean objects can be quickly and efficiently produced. However, design and fabrication parameters need to be optimized to set up the correct printing procedure; a procedure in which the characteristics of the printing materials selected for use can also influence the process. This work focuses on optimizing the printing process of the open-source 3D extruder machine RepRap, which is used to manufacture poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) scaffolds for cell culture applications. PCL is a biocompatible polymer that is free of toxic dye and has been used to fabricate scaffolds, i.e., solid structures suitable for 3D cancer cell cultures. Scaffold cell culture has been described as enhancing cancer stem cell (CSC) populations related to tumor chemoresistance and/or their recurrence after chemotherapy. A RepRap BCN3D+ printer and 3 mm PCL wire were used to fabricate circular scaffolds. Design and fabrication parameters were first determined with SolidWorks and Slic3r software and subsequently optimized following a novel sequential flowchart. In the flowchart described here, the parameters were gradually optimized step by step, by taking several measurable variables of the resulting scaffolds into consideration to guarantee high-quality printing. Three deposition angles (45°, 60° and 90°) were fabricated and tested. MCF-7 breast carcinoma cells and NIH/3T3 murine fibroblasts were used to assess scaffold adequacy for 3D cell cultures. The 60° scaffolds were found to be suitable for the purpose. Therefore, PCL scaffolds fabricated via the flowchart optimization with a RepRap 3D printer could be used for 3D cell cultures and may boost CSCs to study new therapeutic treatments for this malignant population. Moreover, the flowchart defined here could represent a standard procedure for non-engineers (i.e., mainly physicians) when manufacturing new culture systems is required.
A Review on Low-Grade Thermal Energy Harvesting: Materials, Methods and Devices
Authors: Kishore Ravi Anant , Priya Shashank
Published: August 2018

Combined rejected and naturally available heat constitute an enormous energy resource that remains mostly untapped. Thermal energy harvesting can provide a cost-effective and reliable way to convert available heat into mechanical motion or electricity. This extensive review analyzes the literature covering broad topical areas under solid-state low temperature thermal energy harvesting. These topics include thermoelectricity, pyroelectricity, thermomagneticity, and thermoelasticity. For each topical area, a detailed discussion is provided comprising of basic physics, working principle, performance characteristics, state-of-the-art materials, and current generation devices. Technical advancements reported in the literature are utilized to analyze the performance, identify the challenges, and provide guidance for material and mechanism selection. The review provides a detailed analysis of advantages and disadvantages of each energy harvesting mechanism, which will provide guidance towards designing a hybrid thermal energy harvester that can overcome various limitations of the individual mechanism.
Evaluation of Amino-Functional Polyester Dendrimers Based on Bis-MPA as Nonviral Vectors for siRNA Delivery
Authors: Stenström Patrik , Manzanares Dario , Zhang Yuning , Ceña Valentin , Malkoch Michael
Published: August 2018

Herein, we present the first evaluation of cationic dendrimers based on 2,2-bis(methylol)propionic acid (bis-MPA) as nonviral vectors for transfection of short interfering RNA (siRNA) in cell cultures. The study encompassed dendrimers of generation one to four (G1–G4), modified to bear 6–48 amino end-groups, where the G2–G4 proved to be capable of siRNA complexation and protection against RNase-mediated degradation. The dendrimers were nontoxic to astrocytes, glioma (C6), and glioblastoma (U87), while G3 and G4 exhibited concentration dependent toxicity towards primary neurons. The G2 showed no toxicity to primary neurons at any of the tested concentrations. Fluorescence microscopy experiments suggested that the dendrimers are highly efficient at endo-lysosomal escape since fluorescently labeled dendrimers were localized specifically in mitochondria, and diffuse cytosolic distribution of fluorescent siRNA complexed by dendrimers was observed. This is a desired feature for intracellular drug delivery, since the endocytic pathway otherwise transfers the drugs into lysosomes where they can be degraded without reaching their intended target. siRNA-transfection was successful in C6 and U87 cell lines using the G3 and G4 dendrimers followed by a decrease of approximately 20% of target protein p42-MAPK expression.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of New Cholinesterase Inhibitors for Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Hussein Weiam , Sağlık Begüm Nurpelin , Levent Serkan , Korkut Büşra , Ilgın Sinem , Özkay Yusuf , Kaplancıklı Zafer Asım
Published: August 2018

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder mostly influencing the elderly, and causes death due to dementia. The main pathogenic feature connected with the progression of this multifactorial disease is the weakening of the cholinergic system in the brain. Cholinesterase (ChE) inhibitors are recognized as one of the choices in the treatment of AD. The inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) were approved as a therapeutic strategy to reduce the symptoms of AD and prevent its progression. The capacity of BChE is not completely known yet; rather, it is accepted to assume a part in a few disorders such as AD. Thus, BChE inhibitors may have a greater role for the treatment of AD in the future. In the present study, 2-(9-acridinylamino)-2-oxoethyl piperazine/piperidine/morpholinecarbodithioate derivatives were synthesized in order to investigate anticholinesterase activity. Eight derivatives demonstrated a specific and promising action against BChE. Furthermore, compound 4n showed inhibitory activity against both enzymes. It was found that the active compounds were well tolerated in the cytotoxicity test. Possible interactions between the lead compound, 4n, and the BChE enzyme were determined through a docking study. The findings obtained within this paper will contribute to the development of new and effective synthetic anti-Alzheimer compounds, and will ideally encourage future screening against AD.
Interacting Controls of Pyrolysis Temperature and Plant Taxa on the Degradability of PyOM in Fire-Prone Northern Temperate Forest Soil
Authors: Gibson Christy D. , Hatton Pierre-Joseph , Bird Jeffrey A. , Nadelhoffer Knute , Ward Collin P. , Stark Ruth E. , Filley Timothy R.
Published: August 2018

Tree taxa and pyrolysis temperature are the major controllers of the physicochemical properties of the resultant pyrogenic organic matter (PyOM) produced in fire-prone forests. However, we know little about how these controls determine the residence time of PyOM once introduced to soil. In this study, we tracked the fate of 13C-enriched red maple (RM) or jack pine (JP) wood and PyOM, produced over a range of temperatures (200, 300, 450, or 600 °C) added to soil from a northern temperate forest in Michigan, USA. Pyrolysis temperature was the main controller of PyOM-C mineralization rates, with mean residence times (MRT) ranging from ~4 to 450 years for both taxa. The PyOM-C mineralization rates for both taxa and the pyrolysis temperature correlated positively with PyOMw (leachable C content); however, the potential PyOMw contribution to net PyOM-C mineralization was lower for JP (14–65%) than RM (24–84%). The correlation between PyOMw and mineralization rate was strongest where carbonization and the thermochemical conversion of carbohydrates and non-lignin phenols was most pronounced during pyrolysis for each taxa (300 °C for JP and 450 °C for RM). Contrary to expectations, the addition of a labile C source, sucrose, to the soil did not enhance the decomposition of PyOM, indicating that soil microbes were not energy limited in the soil-PyOM system studied (regardless of pyrolysis temperature). Our results showed that while the first-order control on PyOM decomposition in this soil is pyrolysis temperature, wood taxa did affect PyOM-C MRT, likely in part due to differences in the amount of reactive water-soluble C present in PyOM.
Modeling the Land Use Change in an Arid Oasis Constrained by Water Resources and Environmental Policy Change Using Cellular Automata Models
Authors: Hu Xiaoli , Li Xin , Lu Ling
Published: August 2018

Land use and land cover change (LUCC) is an important issue in global environmental change and sustainable development, yet spatial simulation of LUCC remains challenging due to the land use system complexity. The cellular automata (CA) model plays a crucial role in simulating LUCC processes due to its powerful spatial computing power; however, the majority of current LUCC CA models are binary-state models that cannot provide more general information about the overall spatial pattern of LUCC. Moreover, the current LUCC CA models rarely consider background artificial irrigation in arid regions. Here, a multiple logistic-regression-based Markov cellular automata (MLRMCA) model and a multiple artificial-neural-network-based Markov cellular automata (MANNMCA) model were developed and applied to simulate complex land use evolutionary processes in an arid region oasis (Zhangye Oasis), constrained by water resources and environmental policy change, during the period 2000–2011. Results indicated that the MANNMCA model was superior to the MLRMCA model in simulated accuracy. Furthermore, combining the artificial neural network with CA more effectively captured the complex relationships between LUCC and a set of spatial driving variables. Although the MLRMCA model also showed some advantages, the MANNMCA model was more appropriate for simulating complex land use dynamics. The two integrated models were reliable, and could reflect the spatial evolution of regional LUCC. These models also have potential implications for land use planning and sustainable development in arid regions.
Cooling of Small and Massive Hyperonic Stars
Authors: Negreiros Rodrigo , Tolos Laura , Centelles Mario , Ramos Angels , Dexheimer Veronica
Published: August 2018

We perform cooling simulations for isolated neutron stars using recently developed equations of state for their core. The equations of state are obtained from new parametrizations of the FSU2 relativistic mean-field functional that reproduce the properties of nuclear matter and finite nuclei, while fulfilling the restrictions on high-density matter deduced from heavy-ion collisions, measurements of massive 2 M
⊙ neutron stars, and neutron star radii below 13 km. We find that two of the models studied, FSU2R (with nucleons) and in particular FSU2H (with nucleons and hyperons), show very good agreement with cooling observations, even without including extensive nucleon pairing. This suggests that the cooling observations are more compatible with an equation of state that produces a soft nuclear symmetry energy, hence it generates small neutron star radii. However, both models favor large stellar masses, above 1.8 M
⊙, to explain the colder isolated neutron stars that have been observed, even if nucleon pairing is present.
Health Promotion Toolkit: An Approach for Empowering Families Caring For Children with Developmental Disabilities in Tabuk
Authors: Ghoneim Azza Abdalla
Published: August 2018

AIM: The study aimed to determine the effects of the health promotion toolkit on empowering families caring for children with developmental disability. It hypothesised that health promotion toolkit would effectively improve families' empowerment and alleviate parental stress.METHODOLOGY: The research design was quasi-experimental. A convenience sample of 30 children with DD and their families enrolled at Shoaa ElAmal Center in Umluj participated. Tools were Health Promotion Assessment Sheet, Family Empowerment Scale, and the Parent Stress Index.RESULTS: The results documented significant lower levels of parental stress and higher levels of family empowerment among mothers at posttest than pretest. A significant negative correlation between family empowerment and parental stress was reported.CONCLUSION: Health promotion toolkit had a positive effect on empowering families as well as lowering parental stress. Recommendation Health promotion toolkit should be integrated as a monitoring method of health care needs of health promotional activities for children with developmental disabilities.
Politique environnementale et territoire : le démantèlement des ouvrages hydrauliques en France à l’épreuve du modèle nord-américain
Authors: Drapier Ludovic , Germaine Marie-Anne , Lespez Laurent
Published: August 2018

Cet article met en perspective les opérations de démantèlement d’ouvrages hydrauliques réalisées sur les cours d’eau de l’ouest de la France avec des opérations ayant été conduites sur la côte nord-est des États-Unis en s’intéressant à la façon dont le cadre réglementaire régit les liens entre politique environnementale et territoire. Si une forte conflictualité est observée autour de ces projets de part et d’autre de l’Atlantique, il ne s’agit pas ici d’examiner la teneur de ces conflits mais d’apporter un éclairage à travers l’analyse comparée des politiques publiques et des acteurs qui promeuvent le démantèlement d’ouvrages hydrauliques afin de voir en quoi le contexte de portage des opérations influe sur leur intégration locale. La réalisation d’entretiens semi-directifs auprès des parties prenantes (acteurs institutionnels ou associatifs) a d’abord permis de mettre en évidence que la notion de continuité écologique est au cœur de ces projets, qu’elle soit clairement mise en avant ou non. D’autre part, la recherche souligne le rôle clef des acteurs en charge des poissons, notamment migrateurs, et des acteurs en charge de leur gestion dans l’aboutissement des projets. Enfin, il apparaît une opposition claire entre la France et les États-Unis en ce qui concerne les relations entre la politique environnementale et le territoire qui l’accueille : de nombreuses opérations outre-Atlantique impliquent des associations permettant la création de liens plus forts et inscrits dans le temps entre le projet d’arasement et son espace support alors qu’en France, l’approche descendante imposée par la législation impose un calendrier et une approche principalement réglementaire et limite le plus souvent les possibilités de faire de ces opérations de véritables outils de développement du territoire.
Discrimination positive, méritocratie et l’inclusion en tension : les « Conventions éducation prioritaire » de Sciences Po
Authors: Fernández-Vavrik Germán , Pirone Filippo , van Zanten Agnès
Published: August 2018

Cet article s’intéresse à un dispositif dit « d’ouverture sociale », les « Conventions Education Prioritaire » (CEP) de Sciences Po, en prenant appui sur une enquête ethnographique en cours comprenant des analyses de textes institutionnels ainsi que des entretiens et des observations à Sciences Po et dans quatre lycées conventionnés. Il s’intéresse aux tensions normatives entre les acteurs impliqués, notamment entre les responsables institutionnels qui impulsent et coordonnent le dispositif et les acteurs scolaires qui le mettent en œuvre, autour de la priorité à accorder à la méritocratie, à la discrimination positive et à l’inclusion. Il examine également les arrangements pédagogiques et organisationnels auxquels les efforts pour résoudre ces tensions donnent lieu. La conclusion insiste notamment sur les effets de ces tensions et des pratiques qui en résultent sur le brouillage entre deux objectifs politiques distincts, la diversification des élites et la réduction des inégalités.
L’éducation surveillée et ses professionnels : archéologie d’une intervention éducative aux marges de l’école (Genève, 1890-1970)
Authors: Droux Joëlle
Published: August 2018

Le présent article a pour but de restituer les étapes qui ont contribué à l’émergence d’une profession dédiée à l’éducation des enfants en difficulté (sociale, familiale, scolaire) dans le cadre suisse romand, en s’efforçant de la positionner par rapport à l’offre éducative scolaire. La première étape est celle qui dès le 19 e  siècle voit s’élaborer un réseau privé d’établissements correctionnels, en marge du système scolaire public, initiant un partage du terrain éducatif et des clientèles à éduquer. La seconde étape est celle de l’instauration de nouvelles lois de protection de l’enfance à la fin du siècle qui permettent l’intervention de l’Etat face aux parents défaillants, sans toutefois remettre en cause la répartition de l’offre éducative entre œuvres privées d’éducation et établissements d’instruction publics. Durant l’entre-deux-guerres, une troisième étape voit se déployer une approche médico-pédagogique qui postule la curabilité des troubles du comportement, et prône la rénovation des maisons d’éducation par le biais de la création d’une nouvelle profession, celle d’éducateur. Cette séquence contribue à articuler cette profession aux objectifs émancipateurs que poursuit l’école, en affirmant œuvrer au soin et à la réinsertion des jeunes placés ; mais elle concourt aussi à renforcer le processus ségrégatif qui sépare populations scolaires ordinaires gérées par l’école et catégories en difficultés, dérivées vers le placement. Après une période d’enthousiasme qui voit se créer le premier centre de formation en Suisse romande, la jeune profession d’éducateur, à l’image du secteur des placements éducatifs, est victime d’une crise de confiance dès les années 1960, en lien avec une remise en cause des effets ségrégatifs de ces politiques envers les populations défavorisées. Une crise qui débouche sur la construction d’autres conceptions de l’action éducative auprès des familles et des enfants en difficulté, basées sur des référentiels plus respectueux des droits humains, qu’il conviendrait de documenter pour mieux en comprendre l’ampleur, et les effets sur les pratiques professionnelles dans et hors école.
L’école québécoise et la gestion de la diversité des élèves : mesures d’intégration et tensions au sein de la division du travail éducatif
Authors: LeVasseur Louis
Published: August 2018

La gestion de la diversité des élèves représente un des principaux défis auxquels l’école québécoise fait face. De nombreux élèves provenant de milieux sociaux défavorisés sont menacés d’échec scolaire. L’intégration de ces élèves en classe ordinaire complexifie la tâche des enseignants. Afin de soutenir ces élèves et d’appuyer les enseignants, l’école publique a recours, surtout depuis le début des années 1990, à de plus en plus d’agents de soutien technique. L’article porte sur le travail qu’effectuent les agents scolaires qui travaillent dans des établissements se caractérisant par une très grande diversité d’élèves. Il montre surtout que malgré des valeurs éducatives souvent communes, la coordination de l’action entre les agents de soutien technique, les agents de soutien professionnel et les enseignants ne va pas de soi. Il en résulte un climat tendu qui nuit au travail collectif, et par conséquent, à la scolarisation des élèves en difficulté.
Hengam a MapReduce-Based Distributed Data Warehouse for Big Data
Authors: Barkhordari Mohammadhossein , Niamanesh Mahdi
Published: August 2018

When working with a high volume of information that follows an exponential pattern, the authors confront big data. This huge amount of information makes big data retrieval and analytics important issues. There have been many attempts to solve data analytic problems using distributed platforms, but the main problem with the proposed methods is not observing the data locality. In this article, a MapReduce-based method called Hengam is proposed. In this method, data format unification helps nodes to have data independence. The unified format leads to an increase in the information retrieval speed and prevents data exchange betoen nodes. The proposed method was evaluated using data items from an ICT company and the information retrieval time was much better than that of other open-source distributed data warehouse software.
A Randomized Controlled Trial on Posture Improvement and Trunk Muscle Strength by Round Shoulder Posture Improvement Exercise
Authors: Lee Eunsang , Choi Won-je , Jung Dae-in , Lee Seungwon
Published: August 2018

The aim of this article was to examine investigates the effects of posture-improving exercises on round shoulder posture (RSP) and back muscle strength. 35 college students participated in this study and were measured for both shoulder height and muscle strength. After pretest, participants were divided into shoulder stabilization exercise group (SSEG, n1=12), antagonist strength exercise group (ASEG, n2=12), and control group (CG, n3=11). SSEG and ASEG exercised with a trainer 3 times a week for 30 minutes during 4 weeks. After completion of intervention, there was a significant difference in both shoulders and trunk muscle strength is significant difference for SSEG, ASEG and CG. This study has found that strengthening exercise is more effective in RSP reduction. However, it is the opinion of the researchers that the 4 week exercise period was not long enough to achieve significant results for other measurements. Further comparative studies related to the effects of strength exercises on RSP reduction, lung capacity, and trunk muscle strength is necessary.