bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Empirical Study on the Influence Path of Environmental Risk Perception on Behavioral Responses In China
Authors: Gao Shan , Li Weimin , Ling Shuang , Dou Xin , Liu Xiaozhou
Published: August 2019

In recent years, the outbreak of numerous environmental risk incidents aroused widespread public concern about the amplification mechanism of environmental risk in China. However, few studies have investigated the influence path of environmental risk perception on behavioral responses in Chinese context from a micro perspective. In this article, we develop a multidimensional path model from environmental risk perception to behavioral responses, which aims to investigate how the public’s environmental risk perception influence its different behavioral responses, including environmental radical behavior, environmental concern behavior and environmental protection behavior. A survey data from Chinese General Social Survey 2013 (CGSS2013), was used to test the model, including questions related to information channel (e.g., media use, interpersonal network), cognitive evaluation (e.g., environmental value, public’s evaluation of environmental governance) and environmental knowledge. The results indicate that both information channel factors and cognitive evaluation factors can significantly influence the progress that from environmental risk perception to behavioral responses, of which both media use and environmental value play the amplification role in the transform process, while interpersonal network and public’s evaluation of environmental governance would inhibit public’s risk perception transforming into environmental behavior. Besides, environmental knowledge displays a key bridge role between information channel factors and cognitive evaluation factors. This research findings also demonstrated the evolution paths of three environmental behaviors under the same level of risk perception, namely, risk transformation and diffusion, risk perception enhancement and risk attenuation respectively.
Neurotoxicity, Behavior, and Lethal Effects of Cadmium, Microplastics, and Their Mixtures on Pomatoschistus microps Juveniles from Two Wild Populations Exposed under Laboratory Conditions―Implications to Environmental and Human Risk Assessment
Authors: Miranda Tiago , Vieira Luis R. , Guilhermino Lúcia
Published: August 2019

Microplastics (MPs) were found to modulate the toxicity of other pollutants but the knowledge on the topic is still limited. The goals of this study were to investigate the short-term toxicity of cadmium (Cd) to wild Pomatochistus microps juveniles, the potential modulation of acute Cd toxicity by 1–5 µm polyethylene MPs in this species, and possible differences of sensitivity to Cd and MPs-Cd mixtures between juveniles from two distinct wild populations. Juveniles were collected in the estuaries of Minho (M-est) and Lima (L-est) Rivers (NW Portugal). One 96 h bioassay with M-est juveniles and another one with L-est juveniles were carried out in laboratory conditions. Each bioassay had 12 treatments: control, 5 Cd concentrations, 1 MPs concentration, and 5 MPs-Cd mixtures. No significant differences in Cd-induced mortality between juveniles from distinct estuaries or between juveniles exposed to Cd alone and those exposed to MPs-Cd mixtures were found. The total 96h LC10 and LC50 of Cd alone were 2 mg/L (95% CI: 0–4 mg/L) and 8 mg/L (95% CI: 2–17 mg/L), respectively. Cd alone significantly decreased the post-exposure predatory performance (PEPP) of M-est (≥6 mg/L) and L-est juveniles (≥3 mg/L), and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity of M-est juveniles (13 mg/L). MPs alone (0.14 mg/L) significantly reduced the PEPP and AChE activity of L-est juveniles but not of M-est juveniles. MPs-Cd mixtures (3–13 mg/L of Cd + 0.14 mg/L of MPs) significantly inhibited the PEPP of juveniles from both estuaries and AChE of L-est estuary juveniles but not of M-est juveniles. Evidences of toxicological interactions, namely antagonism, between MPs and Cd were found. Overall, the results indicate that MPs modulated the sub-lethal toxic effects of Cd in wild P. microps juveniles, especially neurotoxicity. Moreover, the environmental conditions of the natural habitats to which juveniles were exposed during pre-developmental phases influence the sub-lethal toxicity of Cd, MPs, and their mixtures. The implications to environmental and human risk assessment are discussed and further research is needed.
The ‘Merry-Go-Round’ of Habitual Relapse: A Qualitative Study of Relapse in Electronic Gaming Machine Problem Gambling
Authors: Oakes Jane , Pols Rene , Lawn Sharon
Published: August 2019

Background: Our understanding of gambling relapse is limited despite the damaging consequences affecting many aspects of the gambler’s life. Paradoxically, regardless of these negative consequences problem gamblers (PGs) continue to relapse, seemingly unable to stop this cycle of harm. This paper addresses the phenomenon of repeated gambling relapse shedding some insights into why gamblers continue to relapse. Methods: The study comprised of (n = 54) participants purposefully selected who participated in either 1 of 5 focus groups (n = 35) or in-depth interviews (n = 19). The new knowledge obtained was from PGs, significant others, and workers with direct experience of gambling relapse. Interview recordings were analysed using thematic, textual analysis. Results: The avoidance of negative emotions from the consequences of the destructive behaviour associated with repeated relapse leads to a hopeless “merry-go-round”. Once on this “merry go round”, relapse becomes a habitual way of life where behaviour change and learning from the devastation of a gambling relapse is challenging. Exiting this cycle means PGs must face the consequences of their gambling which for many is overwhelming, and relapse is a way to avoid despair. Conclusions: These findings provide insights into relapse which has implications for gamblers seeking treatment, assessment and treatment “drop-outs”.
Antifungal Properties of Two Volatile Organic Compounds on Barley Pathogens and Introduction to Their Mechanism of Action
Authors: Kaddes Amine , Fauconnier Marie-Laure , Sassi Khaled , Nasraoui Bouzid , Jijakli M. Haïssam
Published: August 2019

This study evaluated the antifungal effects of various volatile organic compounds (VOCs) against two common pathogens: Fusarium culmorum and Cochliobolus sativus. Among the various VOCs, methyl propanoate (MP) and methyl prop-2-enoate (MA) exhibited remarkable antifungal effects under different experimental conditions (direct or indirect contact) and at different concentrations (500–1000 μM). In addition, the type of antifungal effect (fungistatic or fungicidal) appeared to be strongly correlated with the VOC concentrations. Additional tests revealed that both molecules increased membrane permeability of pathogenic spores, which resulted in a decreased efflux of K+ ions into the intracellular medium.
The Dilemma of Medical Reimbursement Policy in Rural China: Spatial Variability between Reimbursement Region and Medical Catchment Area
Authors: Dong Yongqing , Fu Liping , Tan Ronghui , Ding Liman
Published: August 2019

Since the initiation of the New Rural Cooperative Medical Scheme (NCMS) in 2003 in China, medical reimbursement plays an increasingly important role in reducing the familial burden of critical illness healthcare in rural China. However, the current medical reimbursement system is operated based on prefecture-level administrative boundaries, which may prevent some residents from accessing higher-quality medical resources. Using a reliable and high-accuracy geographic information system (GIS) dataset, this study investigates whether this reimbursement system restricts rural residents from freely seeking out medical services in the Hubei Province by employing a two-step floating catchment area (2SFCA). Results show that there are spatial differences between the catchment area of different graded medical centers and prefecture-level administrative boundaries. Spatial reimbursement boundaries should be readjusted so that most rural residents receive equitable coverage by the system and reimburse their medical expenses in a more convenient way. Therefore, we argue that the local government should delineate the spatial region of the medical reimbursement for rural residents according to an assessment of their spatial accessibility to different graded medical centers beyond prefecture-level boundaries. We also discuss potential methods for designing reimbursement boundaries and reimbursement management strategies that the Chinese central government could adopt.
Comparison of Short-Term Associations between PM2.5 Components and Mortality across Six Major Cities in South Korea
Authors: Yoo Si-Eun , Park Jin-Soo , Lee Soo Hyun , Park Choong-Hee , Lee Chul-Woo , Lee Sang-Bo , Yu Seung Do , Kim Sun-Young , Kim Ho
Published: August 2019

Association between short-term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and mortality or morbidity varies geographically, and this variation could be due to different chemical composition affected by local sources. However, there have been only a few Asian studies possibly due to limited monitoring data. Using nationwide regulatory monitoring data of PM2.5 chemical components in South Korea, we aimed to compare the associations between daily exposure to PM2.5 components and mortality across six major cities. We obtained daily 24-h concentrations of PM2.5 and 11 PM2.5 components measured from 2013 to 2015 at single sites located in residential areas. We used death certificate data to compute the daily counts of nonaccidental, cardiovascular, and respiratory deaths. Using the generalized additive model, we estimated relative risks of daily mortality for an interquartile range increase in each pollutant concentration, while controlling for a longer-term time trend and meteorology. While elemental carbon was consistently associated with nonaccidental mortality across all cities, nickel and vanadium were strongly associated with respiratory or cardiovascular mortality in Busan and Ulsan, two large port cities. Our study shows that PM2.5 components responsible for PM2.5-associated mortality differed across cities depending on the dominant pollution sources, such as traffic and oil combustion.
Mental Strain of Immigrants in the Working Context
Authors: Claassen Kevin , Broding Horst Christoph
Published: August 2019

Inability to work due to reported mental strain and psychiatric disorders is rising in Germany these days. Meanwhile the country’s net migration is positive. While there is empirical evidence for a healthy migrant effect regarding the physical health in the beginning (mostly accompanied by a subsequent convergence effect), the mental health of migrants remains partly understudied. In order to evaluate the migrant’s share in the rise of reported mental strain in Germany, 4000 employees were surveyed by means of an online access panel. About 16 percent of them revealed a migration background. Their Copenhagen Burnout Inventory (CBI) score is slightly yet significantly above the German autochthonous’ one both using bi- and multivariate analysis, indicating that there is a specific vulnerability rather than a healthy migrant effect regarding mental strain at work.
In Vivo Endomicroscopy of Lung Injury and Repair in ARDS: Potential Added Value to Current Imaging
Authors: Lesur Olivier , Chagnon Frédéric , Lebel Réjean , Lepage Martin
Published: August 2019

Background: Standard clinical imaging of the acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) lung lacks resolution and offers limited possibilities in the exploration of the structure–function relationship, and therefore cannot provide an early and clear discrimination of patients with unexpected diagnosis and unrepair profile. The current gold standard is open lung biopsy (OLB). However, despite being able to reveal precise information about the tissue collected, OLB cannot provide real-time information on treatment response and is accompanied with a complication risk rate up to 25%, making longitudinal monitoring a dangerous endeavor. Intravital probe-based confocal laser endomicroscopy (pCLE) is a developing and innovative high-resolution imaging technology. pCLE offers the possibility to leverage multiple and specific imaging probes to enable multiplex screening of several proteases and pathogenic microorganisms, simultaneously and longitudinally, in the lung. This bedside method will ultimately enable physicians to rapidly, noninvasively, and accurately diagnose degrading lung and/or fibrosis without the need of OLBs. Objectives and Methods: To extend the information provided by standard imaging of the ARDS lung with a bedside, high-resolution, miniaturized pCLE through the detailed molecular imaging of a carefully selected region-of-interest (ROI). To validate and quantify real-time imaging to validate pCLE against OLB. Results: Developments in lung pCLE using fluorescent affinity- or activity-based probes at both preclinical and clinical (first-in-man) stages are ongoing—the results are promising, revealing correlations with OLBs in problematic ARDS. Conclusion: It can be envisaged that safe, high-resolution, noninvasive pCLE with activatable fluorescence probes will provide a “virtual optical biopsy” and will provide decisive information in selected ARDS patients at the bedside.
Correlation between Transthoracic Lung Ultrasound Score and HRCT Features in Patients with Interstitial Lung Diseases
Authors: Man Milena Adina , Dantes Elena , Domokos Hancu Bianca , Bondor Cosmina Ioana , Ruscovan Alina , Parau Adriana , Motoc Nicoleta Stefania , Marc Monica
Published: August 2019

Chest high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) is considered the “gold” standard radiological method in interstitial lung disease (ILD) patients. The objectives of our study were to evaluate the correlation between two transthoracic lung ultrasound (LUS) scores (total number of B-lines score = the total sum of B-lines in 10 predefined scanning sites and total number of positive chest areas score = intercostal spaces with ≥3 B-lines) and the features in HRCT simplified scores, in different interstitial disorders, between LUS scores and symptoms, as well as between LUS scores and pulmonary function impairment. We have evaluated 58 consecutive patients diagnosed with ILD. We demonstrated that there was a good correlation between the total number of B-lines score and the HRCT simplified score (r = 0.784, p < 0.001), and also a good correlation between the total number of positive chest areas score and the HRCT score (r = 0.805, p < 0.005). The results confirmed the value of using LUS as a diagnostic tool for the assessment of ILD compared to HRCT. The use of LUS in ILD patients can be a useful, cheap, accessible and radiation-free investigation and can play a complementary role in the diagnosis and monitoring of these patients.
Analytical and Simulation-Based Prediction of Surface Roughness for Micromilling Hardened HSS
Authors: Meijer Alexander , Bergmann Jim A. , Krebs Eugen , Biermann Dirk , Wiederkehr Petra
Published: August 2019

The high quality demand for machined functional surfaces of forming tools, entail extensive investigations for the adjustment of the manufacturing process. Since the surface quality depends on a multitude of influencing factors in face micromilling, a complex optimization problem arises. Through analytical and simulative approaches, the scope of the experimental investigation to meet the requirements for surface roughness can be significantly reduced. In this contribution, both analytical and simulation-based approaches are presented in the context of predicting the roughness of a machined surface. The consideration of actual tool geometry and shape deviations are used in a simulation system to achieve the agreement with experimental results.
Subsurface MIMO: A Beamforming Design in Internet of Underground Things for Digital Agriculture Applications
Authors: Salam Abdul
Published: August 2019

In underground (UG) multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO), transmit beamforming is used to focus energy in the desired direction. There are three different paths in the underground soil medium through which the waves propagate to reach the receiver. When the UG receiver receives a desired data stream only from the desired path, then the UG MIMO channel becomes a three-path (lateral, direct, and reflected) interference channel. Accordingly, the capacity region of the UG MIMO three-path interference channel, and the degrees of freedom (multiplexing gain of this MIMO channel) requires careful modeling. Therefore, expressions are required for the degrees of freedom of the UG MIMO interference channel. The underground receiver needs to perfectly cancel the interference from the three different components of the EM waves propagating in the soil medium. This concept is based upon reducing the interference of the undesired components to a minimum level at the UG receiver using the receive beamforming. In this paper, underground environment-aware MIMO using transmit and receive beamforming has been developed. The optimal transmit and receive beamforming, combining vectors under minimal intercomponent interference constraints, are derived. It is shown that UG MIMO performs best when all three components of the wireless UG channel are leveraged for beamforming. The environment-aware UG MIMO technique leads to three-fold performance improvements and paves the way for design and development of next-generation sensor-guided irrigation systems in the field of digital agriculture. Based on the analysis of underground radio-wave propagation in subsurface radio channels, a phased-array antenna design is presented that uses water content information and beam-steering mechanisms to improve efficiency and communication range of wireless underground communications. It is shown that the subsurface beamforming using phased-array antennas improves wireless underground communications by using the array element optimization and soil–air interface refraction adjustment schemes. This design is useful for subsurface communication system where sophisticated sensors and software systems are used as data collection tools that measure, record, and manage spatial and temporal data in the field of digital agriculture.
Cloudlet Scheduling by Hybridized Monarch Butterfly Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Strumberger Ivana , Tuba Milan , Bacanin Nebojsa , Tuba Eva
Published: August 2019

Cloud computing technology enables efficient utilization of available physical resources through the virtualization where different clients share the same underlying physical hardware infrastructure. By utilizing the cloud computing concept, distributed, scalable and elastic computing resources are provided to the end-users over high speed computer networks (the Internet). Cloudlet scheduling that has a significant impact on the overall cloud system performance represents one of the most important challenges in this domain. In this paper, we introduce implementations of the original and hybridized monarch butterfly optimization algorithm that belongs to the category of swarm intelligence metaheuristics, adapted for tackling the cloudlet scheduling problem. The hybridized monarch butterfly optimization approach, as well as adaptations of any monarch butterfly optimization version for the cloudlet scheduling problem, could not be found in the literature survey. Both algorithms were implemented within the environment of the CloudSim platform. The proposed hybridized version of the monarch butterfly optimization algorithm was first tested on standard benchmark functions and, after that, the simulations for the cloudlet scheduling problem were performed using artificial and real data sets. Based on the obtained simulation results and the comparative analysis with six other state-of-the-art metaheuristics and heuristics, under the same experimental conditions and tested on the same problem instances, a hybridized version of the monarch butterfly optimization algorithm proved its potential for tackling the cloudlet scheduling problem. It has been established that the proposed hybridized implementation is superior to the original one, and also that the task scheduling problem in cloud environments can be more efficiently solved by using such an algorithm with positive implications to the cloud management.
The Effect of Localized Vibration during Welding on the Microstructure and Mechanical Behavior of Steel Welds
Authors: Ingram Ehud , Golan Oz , Haj-Ali Rami , Eliaz Noam
Published: August 2019

The use of vibratory welding is treated with some caution in the industry due to inconsistent beneficiary results. Here, a partial explanation is suggested by the differentiation between global vibrational effects (GVEs) and local vibrational effects (LVEs), and the latter is investigated experimentally. Two structural plates of steel are welded at three frequency/amplitude combinations using manual gas metal arc welding in an experimental setup that ensures only LVEs. After welding, tensile tests, microhardness tests, and metallurgical characterization are performed locally in the different welding zones and the results are compared to the non-vibrated welds. Novel use of digital image correlation (DIC) is implemented in tensile testing of welded samples, thus enabling the separate determination of local mechanical properties of the base metal, heat-affected zone and fusion zone of the same weld. LVE is found not to promote any distinct difference in weld properties, at least within the vibrational regimes studied. Nevertheless, depending on geometry and structural response, it is explained how vibratory welding may promote residual stress relief due to GVEs of the welded structure.
Dual Doping of Silicon and Manganese in Hydroxyapatites: Physicochemical Properties and Preliminary Biological Studies
Authors: Szurkowska Katarzyna , Drobniewska Agata , Kolmas Joanna
Published: August 2019

Silicated hydroxyapatite powders enriched with small amounts of manganese (Mn2+) cations were synthesized via two different methods: precipitation in aqueous solution and the solid-state method. The source of Mn2+ ions was manganese acetate, while silicon was incorporated using two different reagents: silicon acetate and sodium metasilicate. Powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) analysis showed that the powders obtained via the precipitation method consisted of single-phase nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite. In contrast, samples obtained via the solid-state method were heterogenous and contaminated with other phases, (i.e., calcium oxide, calcium hydroxide, and silicocarnotite) arising during thermal treatment. The transmission electron microscope (TEM) images showed powders obtained via the precipitation method were nanosized and elongated, while solid-state synthesis produced spherical microcrystals. The phase identification was complemented by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). An in-depth analysis via solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (ssNMR) was carried out, using phosphorus 31P single-pulse Bloch decay (BD) (31P BD) and cross-polarization (CP) experiments from protons to silicon-29 nuclei (1H → 29Si CP). The elemental measurements carried out using wavelength-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (WD-XRF) showed that the efficiency of introducing manganese and silicon ions was between 45% and 95%, depending on the synthesis method and the reagents. Preliminary biological tests on the bacteria Allivibrio fisheri (Microtox®) and the protozoan Spirostomum ambiguum (Spirotox) showed no toxic effect in any of the samples. The obtained materials may find potential application in regenerative medicine, bone implantology, and orthopedics as bone substitutes or implant coatings.
[60]Fullerene for Medicinal Purposes, A Purity Criterion towards Regulatory Considerations
Authors: Keykhosravi Sanaz , Rietveld Ivo B. , Couto Diana , Tamarit Josep Lluis , Barrio Maria , Céolin René , Moussa Fathi
Published: August 2019

Since the early nineties countless publications have reported promising medicinal applications for [60]fullerene (C60) related to its unparalleled affinity towards free radicals. Yet, until now no officially approved C60-based drug has reached the market, notably because of the alleged dangers of C60. Nevertheless, since the publication of the effects of C60 on the lifespan of rodents, a myriad of companies started selling C60 worldwide for human consumption without any approved clinical trial. Nowadays, several independent teams have confirmed the safety of pure C60 while demonstrating that previously observed toxicity was due to impurities present in the used samples. However, a purity criterion for C60 samples is still lacking and there are no regulatory recommendations on this subject. In order to avoid a public health issue and for regulatory considerations, a quality-testing strategy is urgently needed. Here we have evaluated several analytical tools to verify the purity of commercially available C60 samples. Our data clearly show that differential scanning calorimetry is the best candidate to establish a purity criterion based on the sc-fcc transition of a C60 sample (Tonset ≥ 258 K, ∆sc-fccH ≥ 8 J g−1).
Corrosion and Oxidation Behavior of a Fe-Al-Mn-C Duplex Alloy
Authors: Barella Silvia , Ciuffini Andrea Francesco , Gruttadauria Andrea , Mapelli Carlo , Mombelli Davide , Longaretti Eugenio
Published: August 2019

The low-density steels represent a topic of great interest within the scientific world because of the great demand from the steel market of increasingly lighter materials, also featured by an optimal mix of the mechanical properties. In this work, the corrosion and hot oxidation resistance of a Fe-15%Mn-9.5%Al-6.5%Ni-1%Cr-0.43%C were analyzed and related to the microstructural features. The material behavior was analyzed both in the as-cast and in the heat-treated state. For the corrosion test, the experimental plan was fulfilled using four different concentrations of HCl and four temperatures. In the case of hot oxidation resistance, the exposure time and the temperature effects were evaluated. The corrosion resistance in HCl was comparable to the stainless steel, and the iso-corrosion curves showed excellent resistance of the 1300 °C solution-treated material, especially at low temperatures, but it is also good at high temperatures due to the hot oxidation.
The Development of a New Shock Absorbing Uniaxial Graded Auxetic Damper (UGAD)
Authors: Al-Rifaie Hasan , Sumelka Wojciech
Published: August 2019

Auxetic structures are efficient cellular materials that can absorb blast/impact energy through plastic deformation, thus protecting the structure. They are developing sacrificial solutions with light weight, high specific strength, high specific toughness and excellent energy dissipating properties, due to its negative Poison’s ratio nature. The use of auxetic and non-auxetic panels in blast resistant structures had been relatively perceived by researchers. Nonetheless, implementation of those energy dissipaters, explicitly as a uni-axial passive damper is restrained to limited studies, which highlight the potential need for further explorations. The aim of this paper is the design of a new uniaxial graded auxetic damper (UGAD) that can be used as a blast/impact/shock absorber in different scales for different structural applications. First, the geometry, material, numerical model and loading are introduced. Then, a detailed parametric study is conducted to achieve the most efficient graded auxetic system. Moreover, the designed auxetic damper is numerically tested and its static and dynamic constitutive relations are derived and validated analytically. The selection of optimum parameters was based on the ratio of the reaction force to the applied load (RFd/P) and plastic dissipation energy (PDE). The final designed UGAD contains three auxetic cores that have the same geometry, material grade (6063-T4), size and number of layers equal to eight. The cell-wall thickness t of the three auxetic cores is 1.4 mm, 1.8 mm and 2.2 mm, respectively; composing a graded auxetic system. The performance of the three auxetic cores together have led to a wide plateau region (80% of total crushing strain) and variant strength range (1–10 MPa), which in return, can justify the superior performance of the UGAD under different blast levels. Finally, the 3D printed prototype of the UGAD is presented and the possible applications are covered.
Breast Cancer Epidemiology among Lebanese Women: An 11-Year Analysis
Authors: Fares Mohamad Y. , Salhab Hamza A. , Khachfe Hussein H. , Khachfe Hassan M.
Published: August 2019

Background and Objectives: Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer in women worldwide. Lebanon is a developing country in the Middle East with a prominent breast cancer incidence. The aim of our study was to explore the incidence rates of breast cancer in Lebanon from 2005 to 2015, and compare them to the rates of other countries. Materials and Methods: Breast cancer data for the years 2005–2015 was collected from the National Cancer Registry of Lebanon and stratified by gender and age group. Age-specific and age-standardized incidence rates were calculated and analyzed using joinpoint regression. Age-standardized incidence rates in the world population (ASR(w)) were obtained for other countries, from two online databases. Results: Breast cancer was found to be the most prevalent cancer in Lebanon, accounting for 20% of all cancer cases. The average ASR(w) was 96.5 per 100,000. Over the studied period, breast cancer ASR(w) in Lebanon showed a significantly increasing trend with an annual percent change (APC) of +4.6. Moreover, the APC of breast cancer age-specific rates significantly increased for the age groups 45–49 (p = 0.013), 50–54 (p < 0.001), 55–59 (p = 0.001), 60–64 (p = 0.002), 65–69 (p = 0.003), 70–74 (p < 0.001), and 75+ years (p < 0.001). Lebanon had the highest breast cancer ASR(w), when compared to other regional countries, and trailed only behind Denmark, when compared to selected countries from different parts of the world. Conclusions: Breast cancer incidence in Lebanon is among the highest in the world. Future studies should focus on exploring the genetic profile of the Lebanese population in an aim to extrapolate proper prevention guidelines.
Knowledge and Attitudes about the Flu Vaccine among Pregnant Women in the Valencian Community (Spain)
Authors: Rodríguez-Blanco Noelia , Tuells José
Published: August 2019

Background and Objectives: To describe the knowledge and attitudes related to the acceptance of the flu vaccine during pregnancy in women, from two Health Departments of the Valencian Community (VC), during the 2015–2016 season, after receiving prenatal care. Materials and Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted during the annual vaccine season of women ascribed to prenatal care. A midwife offered flu vaccine advice and afterwards conducted a telephone poll of a representative sample, in order to find out the reason for accepting or rejecting the vaccine. Results: Of the 1017 expectant women who received advice about the vaccine, 77.4% (95% CI: 74.8–79.9%) declared their intention to vaccinate. After the recommendation, the vaccine coverage was 61.6%, with a percentage of accordance of 98.8% (95% CI: 98.0–99.6%) between the coverage declared and the Nominal Vaccination Registry (NVR) of the VC. Additionally, 67.2% of the expectant women were interviewed (n = 683). Most were aware of the recommendation and identified the health center and the midwife as the main sources of information. The internet was a consistent source in favor of vaccination 80.8% (n = 42). The obstetric variables (risk during the pregnancy, end of pregnancy, and feeding the newborn) did not have a statistically significant relationship with the vaccination. The women declared a high adherence to the vaccinations present in the child vaccination calendar, but rejected (31.3%) the flu vaccine, as they had not received it previously and did not want it because of their expectant state. Conclusions: The women positively evaluated the effectiveness and safety of the vaccines. However, with the flu vaccine, “not being previously vaccinated” and the “doubts about its safety” represented more than half of the reasons put forth for its rejection. Ensuring that the flu vaccine is perceived as more effective and acceptable through the messages directed towards the expectant mothers, directly through the midwives or through the communication media and social networks, will result in an increase of vaccine coverage.
Robot-Controlled Acupuncture—An Innovative Step towards Modernization of the Ancient Traditional Medical Treatment Method
Authors: Lan Kun-Chan , Litscher Gerhard
Published: August 2019

Background: For several years now, research teams worldwide have been conducting high-tech research on the development of acupuncture robots. In this article, the design of such an acupuncture robot is presented. Methods: Robot-controlled acupuncture (RCA) equipment consists of three components: (a) Acupuncture point localization, (b) acupuncture point stimulation through a robotic arm, and (c) automated detection of a deqi event for the efficacy of acupuncture point stimulation. Results: This system is under development at the Department of Computer Science and Information Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan. Acupuncture point localization and acupuncture point stimulation through a robotic arm works well; however, automated detection of a deqi sensation is still under development. Conclusions: RCA has become a reality and is no longer a distant vision.
On the Structural and Chemical Homogeneity of Spark Plasma Sintered Tungsten
Authors: Matějíček Jiří , Vilémová Monika , Veverka Jakub , Kubásek Jiří , Lukáč František , Novák Pavel , Preisler Dalibor , Stráský Josef , Weiss Zdeněk
Published: August 2019

Tungsten-based materials are the prime candidate plasma-facing materials for future fusion reactors, such as DEMO. Spark plasma sintering is a prospective fabrication technology with several advantageous features. The concurrent application of electric current, temperature and pressure enhances the sintering process, allowing for lower temperatures and shorter sintering times than traditional powder metallurgy processes. This in turn helps to avoid excessive grain growth and phase segregation in W-alloys. This study is focused on several factors that may influence the homogeneity of the sintered compacts—namely the diffusion of carbon from the graphite die, purity of the powder and sintering conditions. The following characteristics of spark plasma-sintered tungsten compacts were studied: composition (especially carbon and oxygen content), porosity, mechanical properties (hardness and fracture strength), and thermal diffusivity. The effects of the abovementioned processing factors were quantified, and local variations of selected properties were assessed.
Piacentinu Ennese PDO Cheese as Reservoir of Promising Probiotic Bacteria
Authors: Pino Alessandra , Russo Nunziatina , Van Hoorde Koenraad , De Angelis Maria , Sferrazzo Giuseppe , Randazzo Cinzia Lucia , Caggia Cinzia
Published: August 2019

Piacentinu Ennese is a protected designation of origin (PDO) cheese produced in the surrounding area of Enna (Sicily, Italy), using raw ewe’s milk without the addition of any starter cultures. In the present study, the Lactobacillus population of Piacentinu Ennese PDO cheese was in vitro screened in order to select promising probiotic strains to be further used in humans. One hundred and sixty-nine lactic acid bacteria (LAB) were isolated from 90 days ripened cheeses and identified by Rep-PCR genomic fingerprinting, using the (GTG)5-primer, and by MALDI-TOF MS. One hundred and thirteen (113) isolates belonging to QPS-list species were characterized for both safety and functional properties. All tested isolates were considered safe because none showed either gelatinase, DNase, mucinase, or hemolytic activity. Tolerance to lysozyme, bile salts, and acidic conditions, along with ability to survive under simulated gastrointestinal digestion, were observed. In addition, based on antimicrobial activity against pathogens, cell surface characteristics, Caco-2 adhesion abilities, and anti-inflammatory potential, it was possible to confirm the strain-dependent functional aptitude, suggesting that Piacentinu Ennese PDO cheese may be considered a precious source of probiotic candidates.
Synthesis, Biological and In Silico Evaluation of Pure Nucleobase-Containing Spiro (Indane-Isoxazolidine) Derivatives as Potential Inhibitors of MDM2–p53 Interaction
Authors: Maiuolo Loredana , Algieri Vincenzo , Russo Beatrice , Tallarida Matteo Antonio , Nardi Monica , Di Gioia Maria Luisa , Merchant Zahra , Merino Pedro , Delso Ignacio , De Nino Antonio
Published: August 2019

Nucleobase-containing isoxazolidines spiro-bonded to an indane core have been synthesized in very good yields by regio- and diastereoselective 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition starting from indanyl nitrones and N-vinylnucleobases by using environmentally benign microwave technology. The contemporary presence of various structural groups that are individually active scaffolds of different typology of drugs, has directed us to speculate that these compounds may act as inhibitors of MDM2–p53 interaction. Therefore, both computational calculations and antiproliferative screening against A549 human lung adenocarcinoma cells and human SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells were carried out to support this hypothesis.
Structural and Aggregation Features of a Human κ-Casein Fragment with Antitumor and Cell-Penetrating Properties
Authors: Chinak Olga A. , Shernyukov Andrey V. , Ovcherenko Sergey S. , Sviridov Evgeniy A. , Golyshev Victor M. , Fomin Alexander S. , Pyshnaya Inna A. , Kuligina Elena V. , Richter Vladimir A. , Bagryanskaya Elena G.
Published: August 2019

Intrinsically disordered proteins play a central role in dynamic regulatory and assembly processes in the cell. Recently, a human κ-casein proteolytic fragment called lactaptin (8.6 kDa) was found to induce apoptosis of human breast adenocarcinoma MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells with no cytotoxic activity toward normal cells. Earlier, we had designed some recombinant analogs of lactaptin and compared their biological activity. Among these analogs, RL2 has the highest antitumor activity, but the amino acid residues and secondary structures that are responsible for RL2′s activity remain unclear. To elucidate the structure–activity relations of RL2, we studied the structural and aggregation features of this fairly large intrinsically disordered fragment of human milk κ-casein by a combination of physicochemical methods: NMR, paramagnetic relaxation enhancement (PRE), Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR), circular dichroism, dynamic light scattering, atomic force microscopy, and a cytotoxic activity assay. It was found that in solution, RL2 exists as stand-alone monomeric particles and large aggregates. Whereas the disulfide-bonded homodimer turned out to be more prone to assembly into large aggregates, the monomer predominantly forms single particles. NMR relaxation analysis of spin-labeled RL2 showed that the RL2 N-terminal region, which is essential not only for multimerization of the peptide but also for its proapoptotic action on cancer cells, is more ordered than its C-terminal counterpart and contains a site with a propensity for α-helical secondary structure.
Ionic Liquid-Polymer Nanoparticle Hybrid Systems as New Tools to Deliver Poorly Soluble Drugs
Authors: Júlio Ana , Caparica Rita , Costa Lima Sofia A. , Fernandes Ana Sofia , Rosado Catarina , Prazeres Duarte M. F. , Reis Salette , Santos de Almeida Tânia , Fonte Pedro
Published: August 2019

The use of functional excipients such as ionic liquids (ILs) and the encapsulation of drugs into nanocarriers are useful strategies to overcome poor drug solubility. The aim of this work was to evaluate the potential of IL-polymer nanoparticle hybrid systems as tools to deliver poorly soluble drugs. These systems were obtained using a methodology previously developed by our group and improved herein to produce IL-polymer nanoparticle hybrid systems. Two different choline-based ILs and poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) 50:50 or PLGA 75:25 were used to load rutin into the delivery system. The resulting rutin-loaded IL-polymer nanoparticle hybrid systems presented a diameter of 250–300 nm, with a low polydispersity index and a zeta potential of about −40 mV. The drug association efficiency ranged from 51% to 76%, which represents a good achievement considering the poor solubility of rutin. No significant particle aggregation was obtained upon freeze-drying. The presence of the IL in the nanosystem does not affect its sustained release properties, achieving about 85% of rutin released after 72 h. The cytotoxicity studies showed that the delivery system was not toxic to HaCat cells. Our findings may open a new paradigm on the therapy improvement of diseases treated with poorly soluble drugs.
Design of Nanoscaled Surface Morphology of TiO2–Ag2O Composite Nanorods through Sputtering Decoration Process and Their Low-Concentration NO2 Gas-Sensing Behaviors
Authors: Liang Yuan-Chang , Liu Yen-Chen
Published: August 2019

TiO2–Ag2O composite nanorods with various Ag2O configurations were synthesized by a two-step process, in which the core TiO2 nanorods were prepared by the hydrothermal method and subsequently the Ag2O crystals were deposited by sputtering deposition. Two types of the TiO2–Ag2O composite nanorods were fabricated; specifically, discrete Ag2O particle-decorated TiO2 composite nanorods and layered Ag2O-encapsulated TiO2 core–shell nanorods were designed by controlling the sputtering duration of the Ag2O. The structural analysis revealed that the TiO2–Ag2O composite nanorods have high crystallinity. Moreover, precise control of the Ag2O sputtering duration realized the dispersive decoration of the Ag2O particles on the surfaces of the TiO2 nanorods. By contrast, aggregation of the massive Ag2O particles occurred with a prolonged Ag2O sputtering duration; this engendered a layered coverage of the Ag2O clusters on the surfaces of the TiO2 nanorods. The TiO2–Ag2O composite nanorods with different Ag2O coverage morphologies were used as chemoresistive sensors for the detection of trace amounts of NO2 gas. The NO2 gas-sensing performances of various TiO2–Ag2O composite nanorods were compared with that of pristine TiO2 nanorods. The underlying mechanisms for the enhanced sensing performance were also discussed.
Preparation of Graphene/ITO Nanorod Metamaterial/U-Bent-Annealing Fiber Sensor and DNA Biomolecule Detection
Authors: Yang Wen , Yu Jing , Xi Xiangtai , Sun Yang , Shen Yiming , Yue Weiwei , Zhang Chao , Jiang Shouzhen
Published: August 2019

In this paper, a graphene/ITO nanorod metamaterial/U-bent-annealing (Gr/ITO-NM/U-bent-A)-based U-bent optical fiber local surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) sensor is presented and demonstrated for DNA detection. The proposed sensor, compared with other conventional sensors, exhibits higher sensitivity, lower cost, as well as better biological affinity and oxidize resistance. Besides, it has a structure of an original Indium Tin Oxides (ITO) nanocolumn array coated with graphene, allowing the sensor to exert significant bulk plasmon resonance effect. Moreover, for its discontinuous structure, a larger specific surface area is created to accommodate more biomolecules, thus maximizing the biological properties. The fabricated sensors exhibit great performance (690.7 nm/RIU) in alcohol solution testing. Furthermore, it also exhibits an excellent linear response (R2 = 0.998) to the target DNA with respective concentrations from 0.1 to 100 nM suggesting the promising medical applications of such sensors.
Sex-Specific Differences in Fat Storage, Development of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Brain Structure in Juvenile HFD-Induced Obese Ldlr-/-.Leiden Mice
Authors: Jacobs Sophie A.H. , Gart Eveline , Vreeken Debby , Franx Bart A.A. , Wekking Lotte , Verweij Vivienne G.M. , Worms Nicole , Schoemaker Marieke H. , Gross Gabriele , Morrison Martine C. , Kleemann Robert , Arnoldussen Ilse A.C. , Kiliaan Amanda J.
Published: August 2019

Background: Sex-specific differences play a role in metabolism, fat storage in adipose tissue, and brain structure. At juvenile age, brain function is susceptible to the effects of obesity; little is known about sex-specific differences in juvenile obesity. Therefore, this study examined sex-specific differences in adipose tissue and liver of high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese mice, and putative alterations between male and female mice in brain structure in relation to behavioral changes during the development of juvenile obesity. Methods: In six-week-old male and female Ldlr-/-.Leiden mice (n = 48), the impact of 18 weeks of HFD-feeding was examined. Fat distribution, liver pathology and brain structure and function were analyzed imunohisto- and biochemically, in cognitive tasks and with MRI. Results: HFD-fed female mice were characterized by an increased perigonadal fat mass, pronounced macrovesicular hepatic steatosis and liver inflammation. Male mice on HFD displayed an increased mesenteric fat mass, pronounced adipose tissue inflammation and microvesicular hepatic steatosis. Only male HFD-fed mice showed decreased cerebral blood flow and reduced white matter integrity. Conclusions: At young age, male mice are more susceptible to the detrimental effects of HFD than female mice. This study emphasizes the importance of sex-specific differences in obesity, liver pathology, and brain function.
Validation of a Food Frequency Questionnaire to Assess Intake of n-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in Switzerland
Authors: Herter-Aeberli Isabelle , Graf Celeste , Vollenweider Anna , Häberling Isabelle , Srikanthan Pakeerathan , Hersberger Martin , Berger Gregor , Mathis Déborah
Published: August 2019

Population-based data suggest that high intake of omega-3 (n-3) polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) may be beneficial in a variety of health conditions. It is likely that mainly those patients with preexisting n-3 deficiency are those that benefit most from n-3 fatty acid supplementation. Therefore, for targeted interventions, a fast and reliable screening tool for n-3 PUFA intake is necessary. Thus, the aim of this project was to adapt and validate a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) for n-3 PUFA intake in Switzerland while using as references the following: (1) 7-day food records (FR), and (2) n-3 fatty acid composition of red blood cells (RBC). We recruited 46 healthy adults for the first part of the study and 152 for the second. We used the dietary software EBISpro for the analysis of n-3 PUFA intake. RBC fatty acid composition was determined by gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Using correlation analysis, we found a moderate significant association between FFQ and FR for α-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentanoic acid (EPA), docosahexanoic acid (DHA), and total n-3 fatty acids (all r between 0.523 and 0.586, all p < 0.001). Bland Altman analysis further showed good agreement between the two methods and no proportional bias. Correlations between FFQ and RBC fatty acid composition were also moderate for EPA and DHA (r = 0.430 and r = 0.605, p < 0.001), but weaker for ALA and total n-3 (r = 0.314 and r = 0.211, p < 0.01). The efficacy of the FFQ to classify individuals into the same or adjacent quartile of RBC PUFA content ranged between 70% and 87% for the different fatty acids. In conclusion, we showed that the Swiss n-3 PUFA FFQ is a valid tool to assess dietary n-3 PUFA intake, especially DHA and EPA, to determine population groups at risk for low intake.