bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Behavioral Consequences of Alcohol Use Among Students of Isabela State University – Main Campus
Authors: Cacayan Edmelyn B. , Solatre Queenie B. , Galingana Mark Hipolito Placido
Published: November 2020

The study was focused on the behavioural consequences state of alcohol use among the students. The respondents were all levels of students of Isabela State University-Main Campus. The researcher used survey questionnaire and interview to gather data. The study found out that the majority of the respondents were under 19-20 years old, male, junior with allowance of 100-200 pesos per day. The Behavioral Consequences on Alcohol Use Among Students of Isabela State University-Main Campus were the following: First was the Profile of the Respondents, followed by the Awareness of the Respondents on Alcohol, Behavioral Consequences of Alcohol and lastly the Leading Factors on Using Alcohol. Based on the above conclusions, the following recommendations were: Clinicians are important to screen students of Isabela State University-Main Campus for alcohol misuse and provide persons engaged in risky or hazardous drinking with behavioral counselling interventions to reduce alcohol misuse. That those who do not consume alcoholic beverages should not start doing so because of the negative impact. Provide Educational Programs among Isabela State University-Main Campus students to enhance their knowledge about alcohol consumption. Since the majority of respondent were 19-20 years old, a similar study should be conducted regarding other possible behavioral consequences, awareness and factors on alcohol and should also be conducted with larger number of respondents.

Keywords: behavioral consequences; alcohol use; students
Pengembangan Trainer Dan Media Animasi Instalasi Pengontrolan Motor Listrik
Authors: Syarif Irwan
Published: November 2020

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk (1) Untuk pengembangan Trainer dan Media Animasi Instalasi Pengontrolan Motor Listrik di Universitas Patria Artha dan (2) Untuk mengetahui tanggapan pengguna terhadap Trainer dan Media Animasi Instalasi Pengontrolan Motor Listrik dalam pembelajaran. Dalam merancang media pembelajaran mengembangkan trainer Instalasi Pengontrolan Motor Listrik, peneliti menggunakan model pengembangan ADDIE dan Media Animasi Instalasi Pengontrolan Motor Listrik dikembangkan menggunakan aplikasi komputer Adobe Flash sehingga dapat menghasilkan animasi yang menarik. Teknik Pengumpulan Data menggunakan observasi dan angket. Teknik Analisis Data yakni persentase kevalidan, kepraktisan dan keefektifan. Hasil penelitian ini, yaitu; (1) proses pengembangan Trainer dan Media Animasi Instalasi Pengontrolan Motor Listrik, ini mengacu pada model ADDIE yaitu analyze, design, development, implementation dan evaluation; dan (2) produk yang dihasilkan berupa Trainer dan Media Animasi yang telah divalidasi oleh tim ahli media. Berdasarkan Uji coba trainer terhadap Responden baik dalam uji coba one to one, uji coba kelompok kecil dan uji coba lapangan diperoleh hasil dengan kategori sangat efektif dan dinyatakan valid. Berdasarkan uji validitas dari kedua katergori tersebut dismpulkan bahwa Trainer dan Media Animasi Pengontrolan Motor yang telah dikembangakan layak untuk digunakan.
PERANCANGAN DAN PEMBUATAN ALAT PENGERING CENGKEH BERBAHAN BAKAR BIOMASSA
Authors: Latif Lita Asyriati , Tjiroso Bambang
Published: November 2020

Cloves are one of the leading agricultural commodities in North Maluku. The main product of the clove plant is clove flower. The clove flowers used in the production of kretek are dried cloves. Drying clove flowers can be done in two ways, first traditionally by drying them in the hot sun directly, and second by using an artificial dryer. Drying by drying directly in the sun or traditionally has several weaknesses, namely dependence on the weather, causing damage to clove flowers due to too long drying and the need for a large area for drying. The purpose of this research is to design and manufacture a clove dryer equipped with a biomass furnace as a heat source. The research method that will be carried out in this research is experimental research, by designing and building a clove dryer equipped with a biomass furnace as a heat source. The result is a clove dryer with dimensions of 120 cm long, 80 cm wide and 80 cm high. clove dryer equipped with 3 shelves with a distance of 20 cm between the racks. The clove dryer test results show that the time required to dry 18 kg of wet cloves is 13 hours with temperatures in the drying room 49 ℃ to 55 ℃.
Two-Stage Stochastic Scheduling of Integrated Electricity and Natural Gas Systems Considering Ramping Costs With Power-to-Gas Storage and Wind Power
Authors: Song Xiaozhe , Lin Chuqiao , Zhang Rufeng , Jiang Tao , Chen Houhe
Published: November 2020

Power-to-gas (P2G) facilities and natural gas fired power units provide flexibility to integrated electricity and natural gas systems (IENGS) for wind power accommodation and ramp deployment. This paper proposes a stochastic coordinated scheduling model for IENGS considering ramping costs with P2G storage and wind power. The operation model of natural gas system with P2G is presented, and the benefits of P2G integration are analyzed. To address the uncertainties of wind power and energy loads, multiple representative scenarios are generated. The flexible ramping requirements and costs are incorporated and analyzed, and flexible ramp can be provided by P2G in this work. The coordinated scheduling model for IENGS is formulated as a two-stage stochastic programming problem, in which day-ahead scheduling for electricity systems is modeled in the first stage model and scheduling of natural gas systems is carried out in the second stage model. Numerical case studies on a modified PJM 5-bus electricity system with a 7-node natural gas system and the IEEE 118-bus system with a 20-node Belgian natural gas system verify that P2G can help accommodate wind power, provide additional flexible ramping capacities, and reduce the gas supply from gas suppliers and gas load shedding.
Nitrogen-Fertilized Systems of Maize Intercropped With Tropical Grasses for Enhanced Yields and Estimated Land Use and Meat Production
Authors: Crusciol Carlos A. C. , Mateus Gustavo P. , Momesso Letusa , Pariz Cristiano M. , Castilhos André M. , Calonego Juliano C. , Borghi Emerson , Costa Ciniro , Franzluebbers Alan J. , Cantarella Heitor
Published: November 2020

Intercropping grain with forage crops bridges the gap between agriculture and sustainability. In tropical regions, forage grasses are increasingly being adopted as winter pasture intercropped and in rotation with maize to maximize food production. However, current recommendations for nitrogen (N) fertilizer application are based on monocropped maize (Zea mays), and the best N management approach for intercropping systems remains unclear. A field experiment was carried out in three growing seasons with three intercropping systems [monoculture maize, intercropped with palisadegrass (Urochloa brizantha), and intercropped with guineagrass (Megathyrus maximus)] combined with six different split applications of N to maize (0–0, 100–0, 70–30, 50–50, 30–70, and 0–100 kg N ha−1 at seeding-sidedressing) with four replicates. We measured dry matter (DM) and accumulated N in maize and forage grasses, as well as maize production components and yields. Additionally, land equivalent ratio, relative crowding coefficient, aggressivity of maize with forage grasses, forage crude protein (CP) concentration, estimated animal stocking rate, and estimated meat production and economic outcomes. Greatest maize yield was 8.7 Mg ha−1 for monocropped maize. However, favorable maize yield was also obtained in intercropping systems. Although no difference was observed between intercropping systems, applying all N at sidedressing of maize negatively affected maize and forage yields and, consequently, land use and economic evaluation. For both intercropping systems, estimated meat and land use were 114 and 10% higher when N fertilizer was applied than the control (0–0 kg N ha−1), on average. Maize-forage grass intercropping is a viable alternative production system for improving yields and land use. In addition, estimated meat production and revenue can be enhanced with palisadegrass or guineagrass. At least half of the N fertilizer must be applied early in the growing season of maize to maximize production of the entire system.
Longitudinal Composite-Mode Linear Ultrasonic Motor for Motion Servo System of Probe Station
Authors: Wang Yin , Chen Ziyan , Shi Yunlai , Cui Changcai , Cheng Fang
Published: November 2020

In order to build a motion system with high resolution, fast response, and long travel range in a probe station, a linear ultrasonic motor was investigated as an alternative to the electromagnetic counterpart in a servo system. This work focused on a longitudinal composite-mode linear ultrasonic motor for the motion servo system in a probe station. The motor was designed based on the required specifications. A finite element model was built to analyze the dynamic response of the stator. The influence of the structural parameters on the dynamic performances, i.e., sensitivity parameters, was calculated to analyze the stability of the structure. Based on these analytical works, a prototype of the stator was developed and mode testing was conducted. The experimental results showed that the proposed design was able to achieve respectable performance: Despite the dual-mode design, the frequency difference between the two working modes was minimized to 608 Hz; and the prototype could operate stably under 55.4 kHz, providing a 0.5 N load with 980 mm/s speed.
Cognitive Biases in Critical Decisions Facing SME Entrepreneurs: An External Accountants’ Perspective
Authors: Nuijten Arno , Benschop Nick , Rijsenbilt Antoinette , Wilmink Kristinka
Published: November 2020

Decisions by small and medium enterprise (SME) entrepreneurs are plagued by a variety of cognitive biases. Extant literature has mainly focused on a limited number of important biases (e.g., overconfidence) in a handful of important entrepreneurial decisions (e.g., start-up, market entry or exit). However, putting the spotlight on a few important biases and entrepreneurial decisions could leave other important biases and decisions underexposed. SME accountants are in a unique position to shed a broader light on this issue. SME entrepreneurs often seek advice of their accountants when they struggle with decisions that involve uncertainty and business risks in the domains of strategy, regulatory compliance, human resources, IT, and succession. In this study, we explore 12 different biases and analyze whether their importance can change across these decision domains. Interviews were performed with 14 SME accountants who provide an independent third-party view on decision making by over 3000 entrepreneurs. Our findings suggest that the importance of most of these biases varies from one decision domain to the other. We also identified four approaches (warn, inform, intervene, and coach) that accountants can take when entrepreneurs may fall victim to biases. We discuss the implications for research and practice of SME entrepreneurs and their accountants.
Cross-Sectional Survey of the Training Practices of Racing Greyhounds in New Zealand
Authors: Palmer Anna L. , Rogers Chris W. , Stafford Kevin J. , Gal Arnon , Cochrane Darryl J. , Bolwell Charlotte F.
Published: November 2020

The aim of this study was to conduct a cross-sectional survey of racing greyhound trainers in New Zealand in order to provide an overview of their training practices. A survey regarding training practices was posted to all registered greyhound training license holders in New Zealand in August 2019. Data were collected from a convenience sample of 48 trainers (35.6%; n = 48/137) who completed the survey. Other than the differences in the number of greyhounds in race training, the training programmes described by public trainers and owner trainers were similar. Trainers reported that the primary reason for registering young dogs for racing and for qualifying for racing was the ability to meet time milestones. Young dogs had a median of six (interquartile range (IQR): 4–10) trials before they commenced their racing career. Trainers described training practices that aimed to prepare greyhounds for race-day. Regardless of whether the dogs raced once or twice a week, most training programmes demonstrated high specificity where training involved two periods of load cycles through high-intensity workload. Trainers racing their greyhounds once a week simulated the workload of trainers racing their greyhounds twice a week by introducing one high-intensity (speed) workout during the week. Training programmes were structured to condition the dogs to the physiological and metabolic requirements of sprint racing. This study highlights the importance of the need for an improved understanding of training and competition load in order to enable future research in the field of racing greyhounds.
Automatically Detected Pecking Activity in Group-Housed Turkeys
Authors: Gonzalez Jennifer J. , Nasirahmadi Abozar , Knierim Ute
Published: November 2020

In search for an early warning system for cannibalism, in this study a newly developed automatic pecking activity detection system was validated and used to investigate how pecking activity changes over the rearing phase and before cannibalistic outbreaks. Data were recorded on two farms, one with female (intact beaks) and the other with male (trimmed beaks) turkeys. A metallic pecking object that was equipped with a microphone was installed in the barn and video monitored. Pecking activity was continuously recorded and fed into a CNN (Convolutional neural network) model that automatically detected pecks. The CNN was validated on both farms, and very satisfactory detection performances were reached (mean sensitivity/recall, specificity, accuracy, precision, and F1-score around 90% or higher). The extent of pecking at the object differed between farms, but the objects were used during the whole recording time, with highest activities in the morning hours. Daily pecking frequencies showed a low downward trend over the rearing period, although on both farms they increased again in week 5 of life. No clear associations between pecking frequencies and in total three cannibalistic outbreaks on farm 1 in one batch could be found. The detection system is usable for further research, but it should be further automated. It should also be further tested under various farm conditions.
Great Himalayan Leaf-Nosed Bats Produce Different Territorial Calls to Respond to Sympatric Species and Non-Living Objects
Authors: Qin Hexuan , Feng Lei , Zhao Xin , Sun Congnan , Feng Jiang , Jiang Tinglei
Published: November 2020

Territorial signals are important for reducing the cost of territory defense. Normally, male animals will produce keep-out signals to repel intruders from entering their territory. However, there is currently no evidence that bats can adjust their territorial calls to respond differently to sympatric species or non-living objects. In this study, we simulated the process of territory defense in male Great Himalayan leaf-nosed bats (Hipposideros armiger) toward two sympatric species (Hipposideros pratti and Rhinolophus sinicus) and four different non-living objects (a fur specimen of H. armiger, a bat model, a speaker, and a speaker with playback of H. armiger echolocation calls) to investigate their acoustic responses. There were significant differences in the territorial call complexity, syllable rate, and syllable ratio produced by H. armiger under the different experimental conditions. Our results confirmed that bats can adjust their territorial calls to respond to different sympatric species and non-living objects. The results will further our understanding of animal cognition and interactions among bat species from an acoustic perspective.
Genomic Characterization of Salmonella Minnesota Clonal Lineages Associated with Poultry Production in Brazil
Authors: Kipper Diéssy , Carroll Laura M. , Mascitti Andrea K. , Streck André F. , Fonseca André S. K. , Ikuta Nilo , Lunge Vagner R.
Published: November 2020

Salmonella serotype Minnesota has been increasingly detected in Brazilian poultry farms and food products (chicken meat, eggs) in recent years. In addition, S. Minnesota isolates from poultry are generally resistant to several antibiotics and persistent in farm environments. The present study aimed to assess phylogenomic diversity of S. Minnesota isolates from the poultry production chain in Brazil. In total, 107 worldwide S. Minnesota whole genomes (including 12 from Brazil) were analyzed using a comparative approach. Phylogenetic analysis demonstrated two clades more related to poultry production in Brazil: S. Minnesota poultry lineages I and II (SM-PLI and SM-PLII). Phylodynamic analysis demonstrated that SM-PLI had a common ancestor in 1915, while SM–PLII originated circa 1971. SM-PLII encompassed a higher number of isolates and presented a recent increase in effective population size (mainly from 2009 to 2012). Plasmids IncA/C2 and ColRNA, antimicrobial resistance genes (aph(3′)-Ia, blaCMY-2, qnrB19, sul2, and tet(A)) and mainly a virulence genetic cluster (including the yersiniabactin operon) were detected in isolates from SM-PLI and/or SM-PLII. This study demonstrates the dissemination of two distinct S. Minnesota lineages with high resistance to antibiotics and important virulence genetic clusters in Brazilian poultry farms.
GWAS-Based Identification of New Loci for Milk Yield, Fat, and Protein in Holstein Cattle
Authors: Liu Liyuan , Zhou Jinghang , Chen Chunpeng James , Zhang Juan , Wen Wan , Tian Jia , Zhang Zhiwu , Gu Yaling
Published: November 2020

High-yield and high-quality of milk are the primary goals of dairy production. Understanding the genetic architecture underlying these milk-related traits is beneficial so that genetic variants can be targeted toward the genetic improvement. In this study, we measured five milk production and quality traits in Holstein cattle population from China. These traits included milk yield, fat, and protein. We used the estimated breeding values as dependent variables to conduct the genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Breeding values were estimated through pedigree relationships by using a linear mixed model. Genotyping was carried out on the individuals with phenotypes by using the Illumina BovineSNP150 BeadChip. The association analyses were conducted by using the fixed and random model Circulating Probability Unification (FarmCPU) method. A total of ten single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were detected above the genome-wide significant threshold (p < 4.0 × 10−7), including six located in previously reported quantitative traits locus (QTL) regions. We found eight candidate genes within distances of 120 kb upstream or downstream to the associated SNPs. The study not only identified the effect of DGAT1 gene on milk fat and protein, but also discovered novel genetic loci and candidate genes related to milk traits. These novel genetic loci would be an important basis for molecular breeding in dairy cattle.
Shape Optimum Design by Basis Vector Method Considering Partial Shape Dependence
Authors: Wu Qiong , Zhang Hairui , Zhao Wei , Zhao Xilu
Published: November 2020

Regarding the case of complicated structural shape optimization, there are cases where there are partial shapes such as holes and irregularities inside the structure. Concerning the complex structural optimization shape, the relationship between the external boundary shape and the internal local shape should be maintained, and how to change the internal partial shape while maintaining a subordinate relationship with the external form has become an important issue. Currently, there is no good solution to this kind of problem using general optimization design software. Therefore, this paper proposes to use the basic vector method to solve the local shape dependency problem of partial shapes. First, this paper classifies the subordinate problems of partial shape into three primary patterns, theoretically proving a method for controlling subordinate relationships of partial forms, respectively. Then, the research also provides two classical application examples: shape optimization of a steam turbine implantation section and stress distribution optimization of an engine mount bracket. The results show that the optimization method is effective for the partial shape subordination problem in complex structural shape optimization problems. Finally, the study examines the problem of making a vectorial vector, a correlation between the basis vector and the remeshing problem of the analysis model in shape optimization, and further substantiates the validity of the method proposed by the body using the analysis result of the actual structural shape optimization case.
Relationships between Low-Level Jet and Low Visibility Associated with Precipitation, Air Pollution, and Fog in Tianjin
Authors: Ju Tingting , Wu Bingui , Wang Zhaoyu , Liu Jingle , Chen Dehua , Zhang Hongsheng
Published: November 2020

In this study, relationships between low-level jet (LLJ) and low visibility associated with precipitation, air pollution, and fog in Tianjin are investigated based on observational data from January to December, 2016. Statistical results show 55% of precipitation is accompanied by LLJ, and two causes responsible for the relatively high percentage are presented. The result of case analysis shows that some southwesterly LLJs are favorable for the formation of precipitation by transporting water vapor when the water vapor channel from the South China Sea or Bengal Bay to Bohai Rim region is established. Statistical results show 55% of pollution episodes (PEs) are accompanied by LLJs. When pollutions are observed in the southern industrial regions, nocturnal southwesterly LLJ, which can carry polluted air masses from polluted regions to Tianjin and induce turbulent mixing, can enhance surface PM2.5 concentration and is favorable for the formation of surface pollution at night. Nocturnal northerly or southeasterly LLJ leads to clear air masses mixing with polluted air masses and is favorable for increasing visibility. Contributions of southwesterly LLJs to the formation of fog and precipitation are similar, which both rely on establishing the water vapor channel despite occurrence heights of LLJs being different.
Simultaneous Tumor and Stroma Targeting by Oncolytic Viruses
Authors: Everts Anne , Bergeman Melissa , McFadden Grant , Kemp Vera
Published: November 2020

Current cancer therapeutics often insufficiently eradicate malignant cells due to the surrounding dense tumor stroma. This multi-componential tissue consists of mainly cancer-associated fibroblasts, the (compact) extracellular matrix, tumor vasculature, and tumor-associated macrophages, which all exert crucial roles in maintaining a pro-tumoral niche. Their continuous complex interactions with tumor cells promote tumor progression and metastasis, emphasizing the challenges in tumor therapy development. Over the last decade, advances in oncolytic virotherapy have shown that oncolytic viruses (OVs) are a promising multi-faceted therapeutic platform for simultaneous tumor and stroma targeting. In addition to promoting tumor cell oncolysis and systemic anti-tumor immunity, accumulating data suggest that OVs can also directly target stromal components, facilitating OV replication and spread, as well as promoting anti-tumor activity. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the interactions between native and genetically modified OVs and the different targetable tumor stromal components, and outlines strategies to improve stroma targeting by OVs.
Deubiquitinating Enzyme-Mediated Signaling Networks in Cancer Stem Cells
Authors: Kaushal Kamini , Ramakrishna Suresh
Published: November 2020

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have both the capacity for self-renewal and the potential to differentiate and contribute to multiple tumor properties, such as recurrence, metastasis, heterogeneity, multidrug resistance, and radiation resistance. Thus, CSCs are considered to be promising therapeutic targets for cancer therapy. The function of CSCs can be regulated by ubiquitination and deubiquitination of proteins related to the specific stemness of the cells executing various stem cell fate choices. To regulate the balance between ubiquitination and deubiquitination processes, the disassembly of ubiquitin chains from specific substrates by deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) is crucial. Several key developmental and signaling pathways have been shown to play essential roles in this regulation. Growing evidence suggests that overactive or abnormal signaling within and among these pathways may contribute to the survival of CSCs. These signaling pathways have been experimentally shown to mediate various stem cell properties, such as self-renewal, cell fate decisions, survival, proliferation, and differentiation. In this review, we focus on the DUBs involved in CSCs signaling pathways, which are vital in regulating their stem-cell fate determination.
The CHEK2 Variant C.349A>G Is Associated with Prostate Cancer Risk and Carriers Share a Common Ancestor
Authors: Brandão Andreia , Paulo Paula , Maia Sofia , Pinheiro Manuela , Peixoto Ana , Cardoso Marta , Silva Maria P. , Santos Catarina , Eeles Rosalind A. , Kote-Jarai Zsofia , Muir Kenneth ,   UKGPCS Collaborators, Schleutker Johanna , Wang Ying , Pashayan Nora , Batra Jyotsna ,   APCB BioResource, Grönberg Henrik , Neal David E. , Nordestgaard Børge G. , Tangen Catherine M. , Southey Melissa C. , Wolk Alicja , Albanes Demetrius , Haiman Christopher A. , Travis Ruth C. , Stanford Janet L. , Mucci Lorelei A. , West Catharine M. L. , Nielsen Sune F. , Kibel Adam S. , Cussenot Olivier , Berndt Sonja I. , Koutros Stella , Sørensen Karina Dalsgaard , Cybulski Cezary , Grindedal Eli Marie , Park Jong Y. , Ingles Sue A. , Maier Christiane , Hamilton Robert J. , Rosenstein Barry S. , Vega Ana ,   The IMPACT Study Steering Committee and Collaborators, Kogevinas Manolis , Wiklund Fredrik , Penney Kathryn L. , Brenner Hermann , John Esther M. , Kaneva Radka , Logothetis Christopher J. , Neuhausen Susan L. , Ruyck Kim De , Razack Azad , Newcomb Lisa F. ,   Canary PASS Investigators, Lessel Davor , Usmani Nawaid , Claessens Frank , Gago-Dominguez Manuela , Townsend Paul A. , Roobol Monique J. ,   The Profile Study Steering Committee,   The PRACTICAL Consortium, Teixeira Manuel R.
Published: November 2020

The identification of recurrent founder variants in cancer predisposing genes may have important implications for implementing cost-effective targeted genetic screening strategies. In this study, we evaluated the prevalence and relative risk of the CHEK2 recurrent variant c.349A>G in a series of 462 Portuguese patients with early-onset and/or familial/hereditary prostate cancer (PrCa), as well as in the large multicentre PRACTICAL case–control study comprising 55,162 prostate cancer cases and 36,147 controls. Additionally, we investigated the potential shared ancestry of the carriers by performing identity-by-descent, haplotype and age estimation analyses using high-density SNP data from 70 variant carriers belonging to 11 different populations included in the PRACTICAL consortium. The CHEK2 missense variant c.349A>G was found significantly associated with an increased risk for PrCa (OR 1.9; 95% CI: 1.1–3.2). A shared haplotype flanking the variant in all carriers was identified, strongly suggesting a common founder of European origin. Additionally, using two independent statistical algorithms, implemented by DMLE+2.3 and ESTIAGE, we were able to estimate the age of the variant between 2300 and 3125 years. By extending the haplotype analysis to 14 additional carrier families, a shared core haplotype was revealed among all carriers matching the conserved region previously identified in the high-density SNP analysis. These findings are consistent with CHEK2 c.349A>G being a founder variant associated with increased PrCa risk, suggesting its potential usefulness for cost-effective targeted genetic screening in PrCa families.
Association between Socioeconomic Status and Digestive Tract Cancers: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Kawakatsu Yukino , Koyanagi Yuriko N. , Oze Isao , Kasugai Yumiko , Morioka Hisayoshi , Yamaguchi Rui , Ito Hidemi , Matsuo Keitaro
Published: November 2020

Although socioeconomic status (SES) has been associated with cancer risk, little research on this association has been done in Japan. To evaluate the association between SES and digestive tract cancer risk, we conducted a case-control study for head and neck, esophageal, stomach, and colorectal cancers in 3188 cases and the same number of age- and sex-matched controls within the framework of the Hospital-based Epidemiological Research Program at Aichi Cancer Center III (HERPACC III). We employed the education level and areal deprivation index (ADI) as SES indicators. The association was evaluated with odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) by conditional logistic models adjusted for potential confounders. Even after allowance for known cancer risk factors, the education level showed linear inverse associations with head and neck, stomach, and colorectal cancers. Compared to those educated to junior high school, those with higher education showed statistically significantly lower risks of cancer (0.43 (95% CI: 0.27–0.68) for head and neck, 0.52 (0.38–0.69) for stomach, and 0.52 (0.38–0.71) for colorectum). Consistent with these results for the educational level, the ADI in quintiles showed positive associations with head and neck, esophageal, and stomach cancers (p-trend: p = 0.035 for head and neck, p = 0.02 for esophagus, and p = 0.013 for stomach). Interestingly, the positive association between ADI and stomach cancer risk disappeared in the additional adjustment for Helicobacter pylori infection and/or atrophic gastritis status. In conclusion, a lower SES was associated with an increased risk of digestive cancers in Japan and should be considered in cancer prevention policies for the target population.
Therapeutic Targets in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Laurenti Luca , Efremov Dimitar G.
Published: November 2020

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a common B cell malignancy and is the most common type of adult leukemia in western countries [...]
Results and Clinical Interpretation of Germline RET Analysis in a Series of Patients with Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma: The Challenge of the Variants of Uncertain Significance
Authors: Innella Giovanni , Rossi Cesare , Romagnoli Maria , Repaci Andrea , Bianchi Davide , Cantarini Maria Elena , Martorana Davide , Godino Lea , Pession Andrea , Percesepe Antonio , Pagotto Uberto , Turchetti Daniela
Published: November 2020

Germline RET variants are responsible for approximately 25% of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) cases. Identification of RET variant carriers allows for the adoption of preventative measures which are dependent on the risk associated with the specific alteration. From 2002 to 2020, at our cancer genetics clinic, RET genetic testing was performed in 163 subjects (102 complete gene analyses and 61 targeted analyses), 72 of whom presented with MTC. A germline RET variant was identified in 31.9% of patients affected by MTC (93.8% of those having positive family history and 14.3% of clinically sporadic cases). Subsequent target testing in relatives allowed us to identify 22 asymptomatic carriers, who could undertake appropriate screening. Overall, patients with germline RET variants differed significantly from those who tested negative by family history (p < 0.001) and mean age at MTC diagnosis (44.45 vs. 56.42 years; p = 0.010), but the difference was not significant when only carriers of moderate risk variants were considered (51.78 vs. 56.42 years; p = 0.281). Out of 12 different variants detected in 49 patients, five (41.7%) were of uncertain significance (VUS). For two of these, p.Ser904Phe and p.Asp631_Leu633delinsGlu, co-segregation and genotype/phenotype analysis, matched with data from the literature, provided evidence supporting their classification in the moderate and the highest/high risk class (with a MEN2B phenotype), respectively.
Breast Cancer Heterogeneity and Response to Novel Therapeutics
Authors: Baliu-Piqué Mariona , Pandiella Atanasio , Ocana Alberto
Published: November 2020

Targeted cancer therapies against oncogenic drivers are actively being developed and tested in clinical trials. Targeting an oncogenic driver may only prove effective if the mutation is present in most tumoral cells. Therefore, highly heterogeneous tumors may be refractory to these therapies. This makes tumor heterogeneity a major challenge in cancer therapy. Although heterogeneity has traditionally been attributed to genetic diversity within cancer cell populations, it is now widely recognized that human cancers are heterogeneous in almost all distinguishable phenotypic characteristics. Understanding the genetic variability and also the non-genetic influences of tumor heterogeneity will provide novel insights into how to reverse therapeutic resistance and improve cancer therapy.
Causal Inference between Rheumatoid Arthritis and Breast Cancer in East Asian and European Population: A Two-Sample Mendelian Randomization
Authors: Ahn Choonghyun , Lee Sangjun , Park Sue K.
Published: November 2020

Previous studies have been reported that the association between rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and breast cancer remains inconclusive. A two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis can reveal the potential causal association between exposure and outcome. A two-sample MR analysis using the penalized robust inverse variance weighted (PRIVW) method was performed to analyze the association between RA and breast cancer risk based on the summary statistics of six genome-wide association studies (GWAS) targeting RA in an East Asian population along with summary statistics of the BioBank Japan (BBJ), Breast Cancer Association Consortium (BCAC), and Consortium of Investigators of Modifiers of BRCA1/2 (CIMBA) targeting breast cancer. We found that the direction of the effect of RA on breast cancer varied among GWAS-summary data from BBJ, BCAC, and CIMBA. Significant horizontal pleiotropy based on a penalized robust MR-Egger regression was observed only for BBJ and CIMBA BRCA2 carriers. As the results of the two-sample MR analyses were inconsistent, the causal association between RA and breast cancer was inconclusive. The biological mechanisms explaining the relationship between RA and breast cancer were unclear in Asian as well as in Caucasians. Further studies using large-scale patient cohorts are required for the validation of these results.
Cellular Senescence in Renal and Urinary Tract Disorders
Authors: Santin Yohan , Lluel Philippe , Rischmann Pascal , Gamé Xavier , Mialet-Perez Jeanne , Parini Angelo
Published: November 2020

Cellular senescence is a state of cell cycle arrest induced by repetitive cell mitoses or different stresses, which is implicated in various physiological or pathological processes. The beneficial or adverse effects of senescent cells depend on their transitory or persistent state. Transient senescence has major beneficial roles promoting successful post-injury repair and inhibiting malignant transformation. On the other hand, persistent accumulation of senescent cells has been associated with chronic diseases and age-related illnesses like renal/urinary tract disorders. The deleterious effects of persistent senescent cells have been related, in part, to their senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) characterized by the release of a variety of factors responsible for chronic inflammation, extracellular matrix adverse remodeling, and fibrosis. Recently, an increase in senescent cell burden has been reported in renal, prostate, and bladder disorders. In this review, we will summarize the molecular mechanisms of senescence and their implication in renal and urinary tract diseases. We will also discuss the differential impacts of transient versus persistent status of cellular senescence, as well as the therapeutic potential of senescent cell targeting in these diseases.
Ti–Cu Coatings Deposited by a Combination of HiPIMS and DC Magnetron Sputtering: The Role of Vacuum Annealing on Cu Diffusion, Microstructure, and Corrosion Resistance
Authors: Qin Lina , Ma Donglin , Li Yantao , Jing Peipei , Huang Bin , Jing Fengjuan , Xie Dong , Leng Yongxiang , Akhavan Behnam , Huang Nan
Published: November 2020

Titanium-copper (Ti–Cu) coatings have attracted extensive attention in the surface modification of industrial and biomedical materials due to their excellent physical and chemical properties and biocompatibility. Here, Ti–Cu coatings are fabricated using a combination of high-power pulsed magnetron sputtering (HPPMS; also known as high power impulse magnetron sputtering (HiPIMS)) and DC magnetron sputtering followed by vacuum annealing at varied temperatures (300, 400, and 500 °C). X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) data showed that Ti, Cu, and CuTi3 are mainly formed in the coatings before annealing, while Ti3O, Cu2O, and CuTi3 are the main compounds present in the annealed coatings. The cross-sectional TEM micrographs and corresponding EDS results provided evidence that Ti is mainly present on the surface and interfaces of the silicon substrate and the Ti–Cu coatings annealed at 500 °C, while the bulk of the coatings is enriched with Cu. The resistivity of the coatings decreased with increasing the annealing temperature from 300 to 500 °C. Based on self-corrosion current density data, the Ti–Cu coating annealed at 300 °C showed similar corrosion performance compared to the as-deposited Ti–Cu coating, while the corrosion rate increased for the Ti–Cu coatings annealed at 400 and 500 °C. Stable release of copper ions in PBS (cumulative released concentration of 0.8–1.0 μM) for up to 30 days was achieved for all the annealed coatings. Altogether, the results demonstrate that vacuum annealing is a simple and viable approach to tune the Cu diffusion and microstructure of the Ti–Cu coatings, thereby modulating their electrical resistivity, corrosion performance, and Cu ion release behavior.
Self-Adjusting Variable Neighborhood Search Algorithm for Near-Optimal k-Means Clustering
Authors: Kazakovtsev Lev , Rozhnov Ivan , Popov Aleksey , Tovbis Elena
Published: November 2020

The k-means problem is one of the most popular models in cluster analysis that minimizes the sum of the squared distances from clustered objects to the sought cluster centers (centroids). The simplicity of its algorithmic implementation encourages researchers to apply it in a variety of engineering and scientific branches. Nevertheless, the problem is proven to be NP-hard which makes exact algorithms inapplicable for large scale problems, and the simplest and most popular algorithms result in very poor values of the squared distances sum. If a problem must be solved within a limited time with the maximum accuracy, which would be difficult to improve using known methods without increasing computational costs, the variable neighborhood search (VNS) algorithms, which search in randomized neighborhoods formed by the application of greedy agglomerative procedures, are competitive. In this article, we investigate the influence of the most important parameter of such neighborhoods on the computational efficiency and propose a new VNS-based algorithm (solver), implemented on the graphics processing unit (GPU), which adjusts this parameter. Benchmarking on data sets composed of up to millions of objects demonstrates the advantage of the new algorithm in comparison with known local search algorithms, within a fixed time, allowing for online computation.
Asymmetric Hysteresis Loops in Co Thin Films
Authors: Ehrmann Andrea , Blachowicz Tomasz
Published: November 2020

Asymmetric magnetic hysteresis loops are usually found in exchange bias (EB) systems, typically after field cooling a system below the Néel temperature of an antiferromagnet exchange coupled to a ferromagnet. Alternatively, asymmetric hysteresis loops may occur due to undetected minor loops or in systems with a rotational anisotropy. Here, we report on an exchange bias thin film system MgO(100)/Co/CoO, examined at room temperature, which is far above the blocking temperature, by the magneto-optical Kerr effect (MOKE). While the longitudinal hysteresis loops partly show steps which are well-known from diverse purely ferromagnetic systems, the transverse hysteresis loops exhibit clear asymmetries, similar to exchange biased systems at low temperatures, and unusual transverse magnetization values at saturation. Since minor loops and a rotational anisotropy can be excluded in this case, this asymmetry can possibly be a residue of the exchange bias coupling at lower temperatures.
The Interaction between Higher Education Institutions and Professional Bodies in the Context of Digital Transformation: The Case of Brazilian Accountants
Authors: Bonzanini Osmar António , Silva Amélia , Cokins Gary , Gonçalves Maria José
Published: November 2020

The business economy experienced major changes during the last three decades. The social and economic globalization associated with the fourth revolution put the accounting profession under great pressure toward harmonization and convergence. Still, the route to become a qualified professional accountant varies from country to country all over the world. This paper seeks to understand the evolution of the accounting profession in Brazil and focus on the interaction between higher education institutions (HEIs) and professional bodies, in the context of digital transformation. It is an exploratory study. A survey questionnaire was used to collect data about the perception of the directors of first-degree programs regarding the autonomy of HEIs in defining the curricular contents intended to qualify accounting professionals. The findings show that HEIs are highly influenced by the professional order and Ministry of Education. The limitation associated with this research is that it focusses on one particular professional group in one country.
Probabilistic Approaches to the Security Analysis of Smart Grid with High Wind Penetration: The Case of Jeju Island’s Power Grids
Authors: Kim Sunoh , Hur Jin
Published: November 2020

As the importance of renewable generating resources has grown around the world, South Korea is also trying to expand the proportion of renewable generating resources in the power generation sector. Among the various renewable energy sources, wind generating resources are emerging as a key alternative to conventional power generations in the electricity sector in Korea accounted for 17.7 GW of total capacity by 2030. As wind generating resources are gradually replacing traditional generating resources, the system security and reliability are negatively affected because of the variability, due to intermittent outputs. Therefore, existing power grids will need to be correctly re-measured to cover the large scale of renewable energy, including wind generation. To expand the grid, we must understand the characteristics of renewable energy and the impact of its adoption in the grid. In this paper, we analyze various characteristics of wind power generation, and then we propose a probabilistic power output modeling method to consider the uncertainty of wind power generation. For the probabilistic approach, Monte-Carlo simulation is used in the modeling method. The modeled wind power outputs can help planning for the reinforcement and expansion of power systems to expand the capacity for large-scale renewable energy in the future. To verify the proposed method, some case studies were performed using empirical data, and probabilistic power flow calculation was performed by integrating large-scale wind power generation to the Jeju Island power system. The probabilistic method proposed in this paper can efficiently plan power system expansion and play a key strategy of evaluating the security of the power system through the results of stochastic power flow calculation.
A Decoupling Rolling Multi-Period Power and Voltage Optimization Strategy in Active Distribution Networks
Authors: Ge Xiaohui , Shen Lu , Zheng Chaoming , Li Peng , Dou Xiaobo
Published: November 2020

With the increasing penetration of distributed photovoltaics (PVs) in active distribution networks (ADNs), the risk of voltage violations caused by PV uncertainties is significantly exacerbated. Since the conventional voltage regulation strategy is limited by its discrete devices and delay, ADN operators allow PVs to participate in voltage optimization by controlling their power outputs and cooperating with traditional regulation devices. This paper proposes a decoupling rolling multi-period reactive power and voltage optimization strategy considering the strong time coupling between different devices. The mixed-integer voltage optimization model is first decomposed into a long-period master problem for on-load tap changer (OLTC) and multiple short-period subproblems for PV power by Benders decomposition algorithm. Then, based on the high-precision PV and load forecasts, the model predictive control (MPC) method is utilized to modify the independent subproblems into a series of subproblems that roll with the time window, achieving a smooth transition from the current state to the ideal state. The estimated voltage variation in the prediction horizon of MPC is calculated by a simplified discrete equation for OLTC tap and a linearized sensitivity matrix between power and voltage for fast computation. The feasibility of the proposed optimization strategy is demonstrated by performing simulations on a distribution test system.
Testosterone Responses to Intensive, Prolonged Endurance Exercise in Women
Authors: Hackney Anthony C. , Willett Hannah N.
Published: November 2020

Objective: To examine the response of testosterone in women to an intensive, prolonged endurance exercise bout that mimicked a competitive event. Methods: Ten healthy eumenorrheic women ran to exhaustion at ~100% of their ventilatory threshold in their follicular menstrual cycle phase. Testosterone measures were assessed pre-exercise, immediately, 30 min, 60 min, 90 min, and 24 h post-exercise. Results: At exhaustion (75.1 ± 7.0 min), total (56%), free (36%), and bioavailable testosterone (50%) were increased from pre-exercise values (p < 0.05). At 24 h post-exercise, these measures were decreased from pre-exercise values (−21%, −31%, −18%, respectively; p < 0.05). Effect sizes for these changes ranged from medium to large in magnitude. Conclusion: Testosterone was elevated in the early recovery period following exhaustive endurance exercise but was reduced by 24 h afterward. These outcomes are comparable to responses seen in men when sex-based concentration differences are considered.
Isolation of Microalgae from Mediterranean Seawater and Production of Lipids in the Cultivated Species
Authors: Haoujar Imane , Cacciola Francesco , Manchado Manuel , Abrini Jamal , Haoujar Mohammed , Chebbaki Kamal , Oteri Marianna , Rigano Francesca , Mangraviti Domenica , Mondello Luigi , Essafi Adil , Chairi Hicham , Skali Senhaji Nadia
Published: November 2020

Isolation and identification of novel microalgae strains with high lipid productivity is one of the most important research topics to have emerged recently. However, practical production processes will probably require the use of local strains adapted to commanding climatic conditions. The present manuscript describes the isolation of 96 microalgae strains from seawater located in Bay M’diq, Morocco. Four strains were identified using the 18S rDNA and morphological identification through microscopic examination. The biomass and lipid productivity were compared and showed good results for Nannochloris sp. (15.93 mg/L/day). The lipid content in the four species, namely Nannochloropsis gaditana, Nannochloris sp., Phaedactylum tricornutum and Tetraselmis suecica, was carried out by high performance liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS ) highlighting the identification of up to 77 compounds.