bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pullulan/Poly(Vinyl Alcohol) Composite Hydrogels for Adipose Tissue Engineering
Authors: Samoila Iuliana , Dinescu Sorina , Pircalabioru Gratiela Gradisteanu , Marutescu Luminita , Fundueanu Gheorghe , Aflori Magdalena , Constantin Marieta
Published: October 2019

Composite hydrogels based on pullulan (HP) and poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) were both prepared by simple chemical crosslinking with sodium trimethaphosphate (STMP) or by dual crosslinking (simultaneously chemical crosslinking with STMP and physical crosslinking by freeze-thaw technique). The resulting hydrogels and cryogels were designed for tissue engineering applications. PVA, with two different molecular weights (47,000 and 125,000 g/mol; PVA47 and PVA125, respectively), as well as different P/PVA weight ratios were tested. The physico-chemical characterization of the hydrogels was performed by FTIR spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The swelling kinetics, dissolution behavior, and degradation profiles in simulated physiological conditions (phosphate buffer at pH 7.4) were investigated. Pullulan concentration and the crosslinking method had significant effects on the pore size, swelling ratio, and degradation profiles. Cryogels exhibit lower swelling capacities than the conventional hydrogels but have better stability against hydrolitic degradation. Biocompatibility of the hydrogels was also investigated by both MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) and LDH (lactaten dehydrogenase) assay. The MTT and LDH assays proved that dual crosslinked HP/PVA125 (75:25, w/w) scaffolds are more biocompatible and promote to a greater extent the adhesion and proliferation of L929 murine fibroblast cells than chemically crosslinked HP/PVA47 (50/50, w/w) scaffolds. Moreover, the HP/PVA125 cryogel had the best ability for the adipogenic differentiation of cells. The overall results demonstrated that the HP/PVA composite hydrogels or cryogels are suitable biomaterials for tissue engineering applications.
Filler Effect in Shotcrete
Authors: Galan Isabel , Briendl Lukas , Thumann Maria , Steindl Florian , Röck Rudolf , Kusterle Wolfgang , Mittermayr Florian
Published: October 2019

The effects of fine limestone powder on the early hydration of cementitious systems accelerated by means of alkali-free aluminum sulfate based products, commonly used for shotcrete applications, were investigated in the course of laboratory and real scale tests. In binary (CEM I + limestone) and ternary (CEM I + limestone + slag) systems the addition of fine limestone led to an enhancement of the hydration degree and strength development at early times (<24 h). The formation of ettringite, aluminate hydrates, and C–S–H is affected by the joint action of the setting accelerator and the fine limestone. Accelerator and limestone, in combination with the cement, can be optimized to enhance ettringite and silicate reaction, in some cases coupled with aluminate reaction inhibition, to produce mixes suitable for sprayed concrete applications. Such optimization can help to reduce the cement content in the mixes without compromising the early strength development of the shotcrete.
Delay-Differential-Equation Modeling of Mode-Locked Vertical-External-Cavity Surface-Emitting Lasers in Different Cavity Configurations
Authors: Avrutin Eugene A. , Panajotov Krassimir
Published: October 2019

A simple, versatile model for the dynamics of electrically and optically pumped vertical-external-cavity surface-emitting lasers, which are mode locked by a semiconductor saturable-absorber mirror, is presented. The difference between the laser operation in the linear and folded cavity, as well as the potential for a colliding pulse operation, are studied.
Magnetic Behavior of Luminescent Dinuclear Dysprosium and Terbium Complexes Derived from Phenoxyacetic Acid and 2,2′-Bipyridine
Authors: Mandal Leena , Biswas Soumava , Yamashita Masahiro
Published: October 2019

Two dinuclear lanthanide complexes [Dy2(L1)6(L2)2]·2EtOH (1) and [Tb2(L1)6(L2)2]·2EtOH (2) (HL1 = phenoxyacetic acid and L2 = 2,2′-bipyridine) were synthesized and the crystal structures were determined. In both complexes, the lanthanide centers are nine-coordinated and have a muffin geometry. Detailed magnetic study reveals the presence of field-induced single molecule magnet (SMM) behavior for complex 1, whereas complex 2 is non-SMM in nature. Further magnetic study with 1′, yttrium doped magnetically diluted sample of 1, disclosed the presence of Orbach and Raman relaxation processes with effective energy barrier, ∆E = 16.26 cm−1 and relaxation time, τo = 2.42 × 10−8 s. Luminescence spectra for complexes 1 and 2 in acetonitrile were studied which show characteristic emission peaks for DyIII and TbIII ions, respectively.
Indium Mineralization in the Volcanic Dome-Hosted Ánimas–Chocaya–Siete Suyos Polymetallic Deposit, Potosí, Bolivia
Authors: Torró Lisard , Cazorla Malena , Melgarejo Joan , Camprubí Antoni , Tarrés Marta , Gemmrich Laura , Campeny Marc , Artiaga David , Torres Belén , Martínez Álvaro , Mollinedo Diva , Alfonso Pura , Arce-Burgoa Osvaldo
Published: October 2019

A volcanic dome complex of Miocene age hosts the In-bearing Ánimas–Chocaya–Siete Suyos district in SW Bolivia. Ore mineralization occurs as banded and massive infillings in sub-vertical, NE-SW striking veins. In this article, a detailed petrographic study is combined with in situ mineral geochemistry determinations in ore from the Arturo, Chorro and Diez veins in the Siete Suyos mine, the Ánimas, Burton, Colorada, and Rosario veins in the Ánimas mine and the Nueva vein in the Chocaya mine. A three-stage paragenetic sequence is roughly determined for all of them, and includes (1) an early low-sulfidation stage that is dominated by cassiterite, pyrrhotite, arsenopyrite, and high-Fe sphalerite (FeS > 21 mol. %); (2) a second intermediate-sulfidation stage dominated by pyrite + marcasite ± intermediate product, sphalerite (FeS < 21 mol. %), stannite, and local famatinite; and, (3) a late intermediate-sulfidation stage dominated by galena and Ag-Pb-Sn sulfosalts. Electron-probe microanalyses reveal high indium enrichment in stage-2 sphalerite (up to 9.66 wt.% In) and stannite (up to 4.11 wt.% In), and a moderate enrichment in rare wurtzite (up to 1.61 wt.% In), stage-1 sphalerite (0.35 wt.% In), cassiterite (up to 0.25 wt.% In2O3), and ramdohrite (up to 0.24 wt.% In). Therefore, the main indium mineralization in the district can be associated to the second, intermediate-sulfidation stage, chiefly in those veins in which sphalerite and stannite are more abundant. Atomic concentrations of In and Cu in sphalerite yield a positive correlation at Cu/In = 1 that agrees with a (Cu+ + In3+) ↔ 2Zn2+ coupled substitution. The availability of Cu in the mineralizing fluids during the crystallization of sphalerite is, in consequence, essential for the incorporation of indium in its crystal lattice and would control the distribution of indium enrichment at different scales. The highest concentrations of indium in sphalerite, which is found in the Diez vein in the Siete Suyos mine, occur in crustiform bands of sphalerite with local “chalcopyrite disease” texture, which has not been observed in the other studied veins. In stannite, the atomic concentrations of In are negatively correlated with those of Cu and Sn at Cu + In = 2 and Sn + In = 1. Thus, atomic proportions and correlations suggest the contextualization of the main indium mineralization in the sphalerite–stannite–roquesite pseudoternary system.
Antitumor Efficacy of Liposome-Encapsulated NVP-BEZ235 Combined with Irreversible Electroporation for Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Tian Li , Wang Lucas , Qiao Yang , Lu Linfeng , Lee Patrick , Chang Ashley , Ravi Saisree , Rogers Thomas A. , Melancon Marites P.
Published: October 2019

Irreversible electroporation (IRE) kills tumor cells by the delivery of short pulses of strong electric fields. However, the field strength decreases with distance from the treatment center. When IRE cannot eradicate the entire tumor mass, the surviving tumor cells can regrow. NVP-BEZ235 is a dual PI3K/mTOR inhibitor that has been administered orally in clinical trials. However, its hydrophobicity and poor water solubility make NVP-BEZ235 difficult to deliver to target areas. To improve its pharmacokinetics and therapeutic efficacy, we have encapsulated NVP-BEZ235 in a liposome (termed as L-BEZ). Our current study focuses on the long-term antitumor efficacy of IRE and intratumoral injection of L-BEZ in HN5 head and neck cancer xenografts in nude mice. We compared in vitro efficacy, as well as the effect on tumor size and growth rate in vivo, between IRE alone, IRE + oral BEZ, and IRE + L-BEZ over the course of two months. All animals in the control group were sacrificed by day 36, due to excess tumor burden. Tumors treated with IRE alone grew faster and larger than those in the control group. IRE + oral BEZ suppressed tumor growth, but the growth rate increased to that of the controls toward the end of 21 days. Only IRE + L-BEZ eradicated the tumor masses, with no palpable or extractable tumor mass observed after two months. The combination of IRE and L-BEZ could effectively eradicate tumors and prevent recurrence.
Heat-Dependent Desorption of Proanthocyanidins from Grape-Derived Cell Wall Material under Variable Ethanol Concentrations in Model Wine Systems
Authors: Beaver Jordan W. , Miller Konrad V. , Medina-Plaza Cristina , Dokoozlian Nicolas , Ponangi Ravi , Blair Thomas , Block David , Oberholster Anita
Published: October 2019

Desorption of proanthocyanidins (PA) from grape cell wall material (CWM) was investigated in solutions of varying ethanol concentrations and increasing temperature. The results reveal the reversibility of PA-CWM interactions and the role that temperature and ethanol concentration play in the extent of PA desorption. Sequentially raising temperature from 15 to 35 °C resulted in desorption of up to 48% of the initial adsorbed PA. A comparison to a phenolic extraction model showed significant differences between the predicted and actual amount of PA that desorbed from the CWM. This suggests that the initial conditions of temperature and ethanol concentration must be considered when estimating PA extraction in red wine production. Under typical winemaking conditions, a significant amount of PA may be irreversibly adsorbed if exposed to CWM at low temperature (i.e., cold soak). A compositional analysis suggests the selective desorption of large molecular weight PA from CWM under all experimental conditions. Additionally, a preferential desorption of skin-derived PA over seed-derived PA was noted in the absence of ethanol.
Effectiveness of the Diabetes Prevention Program for Obesity Treatment in Real World Clinical Practice in a Middle-Income Country in Latin America
Authors: Armenta-Guirado Brianda , Martínez-Contreras Teresita , Candia-Plata Maria C. , Esparza-Romero Julián , Martínez-Mir Raúl , Haby Michelle M. , Valencia Mauro E. , Díaz-Zavala Rolando G.
Published: October 2019

The Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) is effective for the prevention of type 2 diabetes by weight loss with diet and physical activity. However, there is little evidence as to whether this program could be translated into real-world clinical practice in Latin American countries. The objective of this work was to evaluate the effectiveness of the DPP for the management of overweightness and obesity at 6 and 12 months in clinical practice in Mexico. This was a non-controlled intervention study implemented in five public clinics in northern Mexico. Two hundred and thirty-seven adults aged 45.7 ± 9.9 years with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 34.4 ± 5.4 kg/m2 received group sessions with an adaptation of the DPP, in addition to nutrition counseling. One hundred and thirty-three (56%) participants concluded the 6 month phase. They showed a significant weight loss, ranging from 2.76 ± 4.76 to 7.92 ± 6.85 kg (p ≤ 0.01) in the clinics. The intention-to-treat analysis showed a more conservative weight loss. Participant retention at the end of 12 months was low (40%). The implementation of the DPP in different public clinics in Mexico was effective in the management of obesity in the short term, but better strategies are required to improve participant retention in the long term.
Intestinal Barrier Function in Gluten-Related Disorders
Authors: Cardoso-Silva Danielle , Delbue Deborah , Itzlinger Alice , Moerkens Renée , Withoff Sebo , Branchi Federica , Schumann Michael
Published: October 2019

Gluten-related disorders include distinct disease entities, namely celiac disease, wheat-associated allergy and non-celiac gluten/wheat sensitivity. Despite having in common the contact of the gastrointestinal mucosa with components of wheat and other cereals as a causative factor, these clinical entities have distinct pathophysiological pathways. In celiac disease, a T-cell mediate immune reaction triggered by gluten ingestion is central in the pathogenesis of the enteropathy, while wheat allergy develops as a rapid immunoglobulin E- or non-immunoglobulin E-mediated immune response. In non-celiac wheat sensitivity, classical adaptive immune responses are not involved. Instead, recent research has revealed that an innate immune response to a yet-to-be-defined antigen, as well as the gut microbiota, are pivotal in the development in this disorder. Although impairment of the epithelial barrier has been described in all three clinical conditions, its role as a potential pathogenetic co-factor, specifically in celiac disease and non-celiac wheat sensitivity, is still a matter of investigation. This article gives a short overview of the mucosal barrier of the small intestine, summarizes the aspects of barrier dysfunction observed in all three gluten-related disorders and reviews literature data in favor of a primary involvement of the epithelial barrier in the development of celiac disease and non-celiac wheat sensitivity.
Exogenous Ketones Lower Blood Glucose Level in Rested and Exercised Rodent Models
Authors: Ari Csilla , Murdun Cem , Koutnik Andrew P. , Goldhagen Craig R. , Rogers Christopher , Park Collin , Bharwani Sahil , Diamond David M. , Kindy Mark S. , D’Agostino Dominic P. , Kovács Zsolt
Published: October 2019

Diseases involving inflammation and oxidative stress can be exacerbated by high blood glucose levels. Due to tight metabolic regulation, safely reducing blood glucose can prove difficult. The ketogenic diet (KD) reduces absolute glucose and insulin, while increasing fatty acid oxidation, ketogenesis, and circulating levels of β-hydroxybutyrate (βHB), acetoacetate (AcAc), and acetone. Compliance to KD can be difficult, so alternative therapies that help reduce glucose levels are needed. Exogenous ketones provide an alternative method to elevate blood ketone levels without strict dietary requirements. In this study, we tested the changes in blood glucose and ketone (βHB) levels in response to acute, sub-chronic, and chronic administration of various ketogenic compounds in either a post-exercise or rested state. WAG/Rij (WR) rats, a rodent model of human absence epilepsy, GLUT1 deficiency syndrome mice (GLUT1D), and wild type Sprague Dawley rats (SPD) were assessed. Non-pathological animals were also assessed across different age ranges. Experimental groups included KD, standard diet (SD) supplemented with water (Control, C) or with exogenous ketones: 1, 3-butanediol (BD), βHB mineral salt (KS), KS with medium chain triglyceride/MCT (KSMCT), BD acetoacetate diester (KE), KE with MCT (KEMCT), and KE with KS (KEKS). In rested WR rats, the KE, KS, KSMCT groups had lower blood glucose level after 1 h of treatment, and in KE and KSMCT groups after 24 h. After exercise, the KE, KSMCT, KEKS, and KEMCT groups had lowered glucose levels after 1 h, and in the KEKS and KEMCT groups after 7 days, compared to control. In GLUT1D mice without exercise, only KE resulted in significantly lower glucose levels at week 2 and week 6 during a 10 weeks long chronic feeding study. In 4-month and 1-year-old SPD rats in the post-exercise trials, blood glucose was significantly lower in KD and KE, and in KEMCT groups, respectively. After seven days, the KSMCT group had the most significantly reduced blood glucose levels, compared to control. These results indicate that exogenous ketones were efficacious in reducing blood glucose levels within and outside the context of exercise in various rodent models of different ages, with and without pathology.
Impact of Food Additives on Gut Homeostasis
Authors: Laudisi Federica , Stolfi Carmine , Monteleone Giovanni
Published: October 2019

In physiological conditions, the gut is heavily infiltrated with various subsets of inflammatory cells, whose activity is tightly controlled by counter-regulatory mechanisms. Defects in such mechanisms can favour the development of chronic intestinal disorders, such as Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), the principal forms of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) in humans, as well as systemic disorders. Over the last years, the frequency of intestinal and systemic immune-inflammatory disorders has increased in previously low incidence areas, likely due to the Westernization of lifestyles, including dietary habits. The Western diet is characterized by high consumption of proteins, saturated fats and sweets, as well as by a broad use of food additives (e.g., emulsifiers, bulking agents), which are used to preserve and enhance food quality. Accumulating evidence suggests that food additives can perturb gut homeostasis, thereby contributing to promote tissue-damaging inflammatory responses. For instance, mice given the emulsifiers carboxymethylcellulose and polysorbate 80 develop dysbiosis with overgrowth of mucus-degrading bacteria. Such an effect triggers colitis in animals deficient in either interleukin-10, a cytokine exerting anti-inflammatory and regulatory functions, or Toll-like receptor 5, a receptor recognizing the bacterial flagellin. Similarly, the polysaccharide maltodextrin induces endoplasmic reticulum stress in intestinal goblet cells, thereby impairing mucus release and increasing host susceptibility to colitis. In this review, we report and discuss the current knowledge about the impact of food additives on gut homeostasis and their potential contribution to the development of inflammatory disorders.
Micronutrient Inadequacy in Short Sleep: Analysis of the NHANES 2005–2016
Authors: Ikonte Chioma J. , Mun Jonathan G. , Reider Carroll A. , Grant Ryan W. , Mitmesser Susan Hazels
Published: October 2019

One third of U.S. adults report short sleep (<7 h), which has been linked to negative health outcomes. Inadequate intake of micronutrients across the U.S. adult population has been reported, and a relationship between sleep conditions and micronutrient intake is emerging. This cross-sectional analysis of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES 2005–2016) (n = 26,211) showed that participants with short sleep duration had a lower usual intake (Food + Supplements) of calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D in all adults aged 19+ years, and vitamin K in adults aged 19–50 years, even after adjusting for covariates. In addition, participants reporting short sleep had a higher percentage of individuals with intake lower than the estimated average requirement (EAR) across multiple nutrients. Age and gender differences were observed in the prevalence of inadequate intake across multiple nutrients. Adults aged 51–99 years with short sleep duration had inadequate intake with respect to more nutrients. In females there was an association between short sleep and a higher prevalence of inadequate intake (Food + Spp) for calcium, magnesium, and vitamins A, C, D, E, and K (above adequate intake). Conversely, males reporting short sleep only had an inadequate intake of vitamin D. Overall, we demonstrate that short sleep is associated with increased nutrient inadequacy, emphasizing the possible need for dietary supplementation.
Injectable Thermosensitive Formulation Based on Polyurethane Hydrogel/Mesoporous Glasses for Sustained Co-Delivery of Functional Ions and Drugs
Authors: Boffito Monica , Pontremoli Carlotta , Fiorilli Sonia , Laurano Rossella , Ciardelli Gianluca , Vitale-Brovarone Chiara
Published: October 2019

Mini-invasively injectable hydrogels are widely attracting interest as smart tools for the co-delivery of therapeutic agents targeting different aspects of tissue/organ healing (e.g., neo-angiogenesis, inflammation). In this work, copper-substituted bioactive mesoporous glasses (Cu-MBGs) were prepared as nano- and micro-particles and successfully loaded with ibuprofen through an incipient wetness method (loaded ibuprofen approx. 10% w/w). Injectable hybrid formulations were then developed by dispersing ibuprofen-loaded Cu-MBGs within thermosensitive hydrogels based on a custom-made amphiphilic polyurethane. This procedure showed almost no effects on the gelation potential (gelation at 37 °C within 3–5 min). Cu2+ and ibuprofen were co-released over time in a sustained manner with a significantly lower burst release compared to MBG particles alone (burst release reduction approx. 85% and 65% for ibuprofen and Cu2+, respectively). Additionally, released Cu2+ species triggered polyurethane chemical degradation, thus enabling a possible tuning of gel residence time at the pathological site. The overall results suggest that hybrid injectable thermosensitive gels could be successfully designed for the simultaneous localized co-delivery of multiple therapeutics.
On the Analysis of the Phase Unwrapping Process in a D-InSAR Stack with Special Focus on the Estimation of a Motion Model
Authors: Esch Christina , Köhler Joël , Gutjahr Karlheinz , Schuh Wolf-Dieter
Published: October 2019

This paper analyses the critical phase unwrapping step in a differential interferometric phase (D-InSAR) stack where both the solving of conventional methods and alternative approaches are discussed. It can be shown that including the temporal relationship between interferograms in the phase unwrapping step improves the results. This leads to the three-dimensional extended minimum cost flow algorithm. To unwrap the phase in a multitemporal way a motion model has to be considered. The estimation of these parameters is an important step. By default, the parameters are estimated in an iterative search process, where in each step, a linear program has to be solved. The best parameters are defined by the minimal costs. Often the choice of this search space is not straightforward. Furthermore, with this discrete optimization function, the solution is often not unique. This paper presents an alternative way to estimate the motion model parameters by maximizing a continuous function, the ensemble phase coherence. With the help of a closed-loop simulation and real data, both methods, the standard and the alternative way, are numerically compared and analyzed. Consequently, it is shown that maximizing the ensemble phase coherence is a good alternative to the established iterative procedure. It offers the advantage that the run time can be reduced considerably and is thus well suited in the processing of large data sets.
Toward Dynamically Adaptive Simulation: Multimodal Classification of User Expertise Using Wearable Devices
Authors: Ross Kyle , Sarkar Pritam , Rodenburg Dirk , Ruberto Aaron , Hungler Paul , Szulewski Adam , Howes Daniel , Etemad Ali
Published: October 2019

Simulation-based training has been proven to be a highly effective pedagogical strategy. However, misalignment between the participant’s level of expertise and the difficulty of the simulation has been shown to have significant negative impact on learning outcomes. To ensure that learning outcomes are achieved, we propose a novel framework for adaptive simulation with the goal of identifying the level of expertise of the learner, and dynamically modulating the simulation complexity to match the learner’s capability. To facilitate the development of this framework, we investigate the classification of expertise using biological signals monitored through wearable sensors. Trauma simulations were developed in which electrocardiogram (ECG) and galvanic skin response (GSR) signals of both novice and expert trauma responders were collected. These signals were then utilized to classify the responders’ expertise, successive to feature extraction and selection, using a number of machine learning methods. The results show the feasibility of utilizing these bio-signals for multimodal expertise classification to be used in adaptive simulation applications.
The Causal Effect of Access to Finance on Productivity of Small and Medium Enterprises in Vietnam
Authors: Giang Mai Huong , Trung Bui Huy , Yoshida Yuichiro , Xuan Tran Dang , Que Mai Thanh
Published: October 2019

In many developing countries, obtaining financial services at affordable rates and fair terms has been a significant challenge for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). However, this issue has not been paid much attention in Vietnam, even though SMEs account for about 95% of total enterprises and the financial market of the country has not been well developed. This study investigates the causal effects of access to finance on productivity of SMEs operating in the manufacturing sector in Vietnam. Productivity was measured as the total factor productivity (TFP) obtained by production function estimation using the Levinsohn and Petrin approach. Regarding financial accessibility, two factors covered the extent to which firms might have a bank loan or overdraft facility were employed. To study the causal inferences of access to finance on firm productivity, the research adopted the difference-in-differences (DID) approach, as well as the propensity score matching (PSM) coupled with DID technique. The empirical results indicated that improving the financial accessibility could directly enhance firm productivity. Particularly, it was shown that firms having access to a bank loan could significantly improve TFP by approximately 8.6% in the DID model and about 9% in the PSM-DID model. Meanwhile, the firm average TFP increased by approximately 12.3% and 15.7% in simple DID and PSM-DID models, respectively, when firms had an overdraft facility. These findings suggest that the government should put more effort into assisting SMEs in generating bankable projects, and create a sound and healthy financial environment to stimulate firms’ access to finance, which will ensure their sustainability and growth.
Does Construct Multidimensionality Matter? A Nuanced Examination of the Relationship among Supply Chain Integration, Green Supply Chain Management, and Business Performance
Authors: Ni Wenbin , Sun Hongyi
Published: October 2019

Built on the idea that supply chain integration (SCI) and green supply chain management (GSCM) are both multidimensional constructs, this paper empirically investigates the impact of different dimensions of SCI on different practices of GSCM and the contribution of different practices of GSCM to business performance. The aim is to uncover the distinctive role of each dimension in achieving environmental sustainability along the supply chain. A conceptual model is proposed to link supplier and customer integration to both internal GSCM within the company and external GSCM with the suppliers as well as business performance. The study is based on a survey of Chinese manufacturing companies. The results show that integration with suppliers only supports external GSCM while integration with the customer supports both internal and external GSCM. It also finds that external GSCM has no positive relationship with business performance but supports internal GSCM, which positively influences companies’ business performance. The results suggest that considering construct multidimensionality brings the opportunity of closely scrutinizing the relationships between SCI, GSCM, and business performance. Different dimensions have different effects in achieving environmental sustainability by integrating different partners along the supply chain. The separation of internal and external GSCM and the exploration of the result of the multidimensionality of the proposed constructs may be contributions to this field. The implications of supporting a green supply chain are explored.
Development of Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography with Post-Column Fluorescent Derivatization for the Rapid Detection of Saxitoxin Analogues and Analysis of Bivalve Monitoring Samples
Authors: Watanabe Ryuichi , Kanamori Makoto , Yoshida Hidetsugu , Okumura Yutaka , Uchida Hajime , Matsushima Ryoji , Oikawa Hiroshi , Suzuki Toshiyuki
Published: October 2019

Saxitoxin (STX) and its analogues produced by toxic dinoflagellates accumulate in bivalves, and routine monitoring of bivalves is important to prevent cases of human poisoning. In this study, we describe a rapid detection method for the analysis of STXs using ultra-performance liquid chromatography with post-column fluorescent detection and to investigate water depths and sampling points optimal for shellfish toxin monitoring. Cultured scallops (Mizuhopecten yessoensis) and mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) collected from various water depths and sampling points were used in this study. Irrespective of bivalve species, toxin concentrations in bivalves were lower at deeper water depths. The toxin concentrations of bivalves did not differ greatly when bivalves were collected from the same bay. Although the levels of contamination of bivalves with STXs can depend on various environmental and geographical factors, our findings are useful for formulating a sampling protocol for the prevention of harvesting contaminated shellfish.
Sphingolipids as Potential Therapeutic Targets against Enveloped Human RNA Viruses
Authors: Yager Eric J. , Konan Kouacou V.
Published: October 2019

Several notable human diseases are caused by enveloped RNA viruses: Influenza, AIDS, hepatitis C, dengue hemorrhagic fever, microcephaly, and Guillain–Barré Syndrome. Being enveloped, the life cycle of this group of viruses is critically dependent on host lipid biosynthesis. Viral binding and entry involve interactions between viral envelope glycoproteins and cellular receptors localized to lipid-rich regions of the plasma membrane. Subsequent infection by these viruses leads to reorganization of cellular membranes and lipid metabolism to support the production of new viral particles. Recent work has focused on defining the involvement of specific lipid classes in the entry, genome replication assembly, and viral particle formation of these viruses in hopes of identifying potential therapeutic targets for the treatment or prevention of disease. In this review, we will highlight the role of host sphingolipids in the lifecycle of several medically important enveloped RNA viruses.
Multi-Parametrical Tool for the Design of Bottom Racks DIMRACK—Application to Small Hydropower Plants in Ecuador
Authors: García Juan T. , Castillo Luis G. , Haro Patricia L. , Carrillo José M.
Published: October 2019

A novel computational tool, DIMRACK, is presented for the design of the required length of bottom racks in intake systems. The users may consider clear water cases or the rack’s occlusion due to sediment transport in the river. The computational tool uses a methodology based on the experimental works undertaken at the Universidad Politécnica de Cartagena from 2010. This work also presents an extension of the methodology to cover a broad range of void ratios, bar profiles, slopes, and flow rates. Designing nomograms are also proposed. These are two diagrams to allow the approximate graphical computation of the rack length with clear water. In sediment transport cases, an occlusion factor is proposed, obtained from experimental gravel tests. This parameter enables an increment in the rack length due to occlusion, depending on the bar type. The results are compared with those proposed in classical technical manuals. Finally, the results have been compared with ten existing small hydropower plants’ bottom intake designs in Ecuador.
High-Resolution Ecosystem Model of the Puck Bay (Southern Baltic Sea)—Hydrodynamic Component Evaluation
Authors: Dybowski Dawid , Jakacki Jaromir , Janecki Maciej , Nowicki Artur , Rak Daniel , Dzierzbicka-Glowacka Lidia
Published: October 2019

In recent years, thanks to the enormous computational power of modern supercomputers, modeling has become one of the most highly evolving scientific fields. It is now possible to describe relatively large physical bodies and to study the changes occurring in these bodies with resolution never attainable before. The paper describes the initial implementation of the EcoPuckBay model system and presents the results of the model simulations compared to observations from monitoring stations and other model reanalyses. High correlation between model results and observations has been confirmed both in terms of spatial and temporal approach. Data acquired via simulations of the EcoPuckBay model was deployed in the project archive database. The dedicated service was created, allowing the user to visualize all produced hydrodynamic parameters as raster maps, time series, and/or cross-sections. This functionality is available online via the official WaterPUCK project website in the services web section. In the next stage of the project, this service will be upgraded to an operational state and forecasts will be added.
L'huréaulite : ses propriétés minéralogiques et son rôle dans l'évolution génétique des phases Li (Fe, Mn) PO4
Authors: Fransolet André-Mathieu
Published: October 2019

Cette étude sur l'huréaulite, fréquente dans les associations de phosphates des pegmatites granitiques, comporte deux parties.

La première partie fournit des données nouvelles sur les propriétés minéralogiques de ce minéral. L'analyse chimique de deux huréaulites, l'une de Buranga (Rwanda), l'autre de Mangualde (Portugal), conduit à une discussion cristallochimique. Les propriétés optiques précisées permettent la distinction de deux types d'huréaulite : l'une est incolore en lame mince, avec 2V = (— ) 60 à 80° ; l'autre est intensément pléochroïque, avec 2 V = (+) 15 à 30°. Grâce à des mesures cristallographiques, des variations des paramètres cristallins apparaissent en relation avec le rapport Mn/Mn + Fe²⁺ de ces minéraux.

La seconde partie, consacrée au problème génétique, comporte d'abord une description détaillée des relations structurales des associations de Buranga, Kobokobo (Kivu, Zaïre) et Mangualde. Cet examen pétrologique met en évidence deux générations d'huréaulite. Une première formation d'huréaulite incolore, riche en Fe²⁺, en équilibre avec la barbosalite, remplace progressivement la phase mère Li (Fe, Mn) PO₄. La seconde génération s'élabore, après une activité nouvelle de Fe, sous des conditions d'oxydation plus forte ; les cristaux d'huréaulite colorée se forment alors, suivant la disponibilité de Mn. La coloration rose serait due à une oxydation partielle de la faible teneur en Fe de cette huréaulite secondaire.

Finalement, ces deux générations sont replacées dans le schéma de l'évolution des termes de la série triphylite˗lithiophilite.
La petrovicite, Cu3HgPbBiSe5, un nouveau minéral
Authors: Johan Zdenek , Kvacek Milan , Picot Paul
Published: October 2019

La petrovicite est orthorhombique, Pnam ou Pna2₁, a₀ = 16,176 ; b₀ = 14,684 ; c₀ = 4,331 Å, Z = 4, d[calc] = 7,707. Raies les plus intenses du diagramme de poudre : 3,621 (7) ; 3,546 (8) ; 3,186 (8) ; 3,124 (10) ; 2,961 (10) ; 2,720 (5) ; 2,262 (5) ; 2,109 (5) ; 2,061 (5) Å. Analyses à la microsonde électronique : Cu- 16,0 (15,3) ; Hg- 17,4 (17,9) ; Pb- 16,7 (17,3) ; Bi- 16,6 (17,4) ; Se- 34,4 (32,6) ; totaux 101,1 (100,5) correspondant à la formule Cu₃HgPbBiSe₅. En lumière réfléchie blanc crème, pouvoir réflecteur : 44,8 (420), 46,5 (540), 46,0 (600), 45,5 (700 nm), biréflectance non observable, anisotropie faible avec des couleurs de polarisation allant d'un vert foncé au violet. Microdureté Vickers (poids de 25 g) : 102 kg/mm². La petrovicite se présente en cristaux tabulaires de quelques dixièmes de millimètre remplacés par l'umangite et l'eskebornite. Clivage imparfait suivant l'aplatissement des cristaux. Associée à d'autres séléniures dans des filons hydrothermaux carbonatés (dolomite, calcite) du gisement de Petrovice, Moravie occidentale, Tchécoslovaquie. Elle y est extrêmement rare. Nommée d'après le gisement type.
Les phosphates des pegmatites de la région de Crozant (Creuse)
Authors: Fontan François
Published: October 2019

L'étude des phosphates des pegmatites de la région de Crozant (Creuse) a permis l'identification, outre la triplite déjà déterminée par Aubert et Pierrot (1959), de : phosphosidérite, bermanite, lispscombite, cacoxénite, phosphoferrite, ludlamite et vivianite. L'étude détaillée de la triplite a permis de définir les différents caractères de ce minéral, de plus l'analyse chimique conduit à la formule structurale suivante :

(Mn₁,₀₈Ca₀,₀₉Fe₀,₁₀⁺⁺Fe₀,₀₈⁺⁺⁺Mg₀,₀₁ □₀,₀₄) [(F₀,₈₃OH₀,₁₇) (PO₄)].

Les principaux caractères des autres phosphates sont donnés ainsi que quelques indications sur leurs rapports mutuels.
Les salaires dans l'agriculture en avril 1964
Authors: Delorme P.
Published: October 2019

L'enquête effectuée en 1964 par l'Inspection des lois sociales en agriculture et l'I.N.S.E.E. fournit les renseignements habituels concernant le niveau des salaires en agriculture au mois d'avril 1964 et son évolution de 1963 à 1964.

L'enquête de 1964 a porté non seulement sur les salariés employés au moment de l'enquête par les exploitants agricoles interrogés — comme c'était le cas pour les enquêtes passées — mais aussi sur l'ensemble des salariés ayant occupé un emploi chez ces exploitants entre le 1er mai 1963 et le 1er mai 1964. Cette extension du champ de l'enquête a permis d'obtenir quelques renseignements sur la main- d'œuvre occupant des emplois temporaires notamment la variation saisonnière de son activité et le niveau de sa rémunération.
L'activité de la commission nationale pour l'étude des problèmes statistiques intéressant la santé publique pendant les années 1961 à 1964 - rapport d'ensemble
Authors: Aubenque Maurice , Chevry Gabriel
Published: October 2019

La « Commission nationale pour l'étude des problèmes statistiques intéressant la santé publique » est une commission interministérielle qui a été créée, en 1949 (1) conformément aux recommandations de la Conférence internationale de Paris (1948) [2], Cette commission a pour mission de contribuer à la coordination des activités statistiques dans le domaine sanitaire afin de promouvoir un développement continu des statistiques de base concernant la santé publique, en conformité avec les recommandations internationales émanant notamment de l'Organisation Mondiale de la Santé. Dans le souci défaire connaître les orientations souhaitables, les besoins, ainsi que les progrès réalisés dans ce secteur, la commission a recommandé, depuis son origine, la publication de ses rapports d'activité. Ces rapports, qui décrivent d'une façon sommaire les préoccupations de la Commission, sont normalement bisannuels. Exceptionnellement, le rapport actuellement publié couvre les quatre années 1961 à 1964, parce qu'il n'a pas été présenté de rapport pour l'exercice 1961-1962. Le présent compte rendu a été approuvé au cours de la séance du 18 mars 1965 de la Commission. Il fait état des principales activités de la Commission pendant la période considérée et des recommandations qu'elle a été amenée à formuler. La Commission s'est intéressée à plusieurs aspects des statistiques sanitaires considérées aussi bien du point de vue national qu'en fonction de leurs relations avec l'information internationale. La Commission s'est plus particulièrement intéressée à l'organisation de la statistique des causes de mortinatalité (qui doit compléter celle des causes de mortalité infantile) et à certains aspects de l'observation sanitaire (cancer, hôpitaux, contrôle médico-scolaire). De nouveaux secteurs ont également retenu son attention, notamment les problèmes statistiques posés par la génétique des populations. Enfin, conformément à sa mission, la Commission a apporté sa contribution aux travaux de préparation de la 8e révision de la nomenclature internationale des maladies.
Les revenus des ménages en 1962
Authors: Ruault J.-P.
Published: October 2019

L'étude sur les revenus des ménages en 1962 dont les résultats sont présentés ici, est, à quelques détails près, le renouvellement de celle qui portait sur les revenus de 1956.

Les résultats présentés ici ont été établis à partir des seules données internes à l'enquête ; les informations de base étant de source fiscale, le revenu ainsi saisi présente par rapport à la notion courante de revenu, et plus encore par rapport à la définition de la comptabilité nationale, de nombreuses lacunes (revenus par nature non imposables) et d'importantes sous-estimations (évaluations forfaitaires, fraude fiscale).

Malgré ces imperfections, le revenu directement saisi dans l'enquête offre l'avantage de constituer une donnée originale connue au niveau individuel, ce qui permet des études de dispersion et des analyses de structure faisant intervenir les variables socio-démographiques d'emploi maintenant classique.

On a également effectué la comparaison avec les données relatives à 1956 : en six ans, la répartition des revenus s'est relativement peu modifiée ; les progrès des ressources des diverses catégories sociales étant approximativement parallèles, les écarts par rapport à la tendance générale sont assez difficiles à apprécier, compte tenu de l'imperfection des statistiques disponibles.

Dans une seconde étape, on s'efforcera, en utilisant comme clefs de répartition les données de structure fournies par l'enquête, d'évaluer les ressources du compte d'affectation de chaque catégorie socio-professionnelle en 1962 ; ce délicat travail est actuellement en voie d'achèvement : il sera sans doute présenté ici prochainement.
Les coûts de main-d'œuvre dans les industries des pays du Marché commun
Authors: Devaux Andrée
Published: October 2019

L'étude présente, sous une forme détaillée, les résultats de la dernière enquête publiée de la C.E.E. sur les coûts de main-d'œuvre, effectuée en 1964 et portant sur les mêmes industries qu'en 1961. Il apparait que, dans les treize industries couvertes par cette enquête, les coûts salariaux des ouvriers sont supérieurs aux coûts français de 10 % et plus dans la majorité des industries allemandes et dans la moitié environ des industries belges, tandis qu'on observe des coûts proches des coûts français dans la moitié des industries aux Pays-Bas et dans la presque totalité en Italie. Mais, étant donné que les coûts salariaux des employés sont le plus souvent inférieurs aux coûts français, le classement des coûts salariaux globaux (ouvriers et employés réunis) fait dans l'ensemble ressortir des niveaux le plus souvent assez proches des coûts français, et quelquefois inférieurs.

La synthèse des résultats des trois dernières enquêtes publiées (1962, 1963, et 1964) qui groupe 35 à 37 industries manufacturières, montre également en Allemagne une plus grande fréquence des coûts salariaux ouvriers supérieurs de plus de 10 % aux coûts français, tandis que les autres pays font plus souvent ressortir des coûts voisins. Mais, si l'on tient compte de /'ensemble des coûts salariaux (ouvriers et employés) la situation est sensiblement différente : dans la majorité des industries italiennes et dans la moitié environ des industries belges et hollandaises, les coûts globaux sont inférieurs aux coûts français, tandis qu'en Allemagne les industries se répartissent à peu près également entre coûts supérieurs, coûts voisins et coûts inférieurs aux coûts français.

Le classement des coûts salariaux ouvriers actualisés pour 1966 semblerait faire ressortir des niveaux supérieurs de plus de 10% à celui de la France dans la presque totalité des industries allemandes et dans plus de la moitié des industries belges et hollandaises ; en Italie, les deux tiers des industries présenteraient des coûts voisins des coûts français.

En se basant sur les niveaux estimés des coûts salariaux des ouvriers et en faisant diverses hypothèses sur le comportement relatif des coûts globaux (ouvriers et employés) on a tenté d'obtenir un classement très approximatif des coûts salariaux globaux en 1966. Ils pourraient être, en Allemagne, en Belgique et aux Pays-Bas, assez proches des coûts français dans la moitié environ des industries, la proportion approchant des deux tiers en Italie ; alors que près de la moitié des industries allemandes et le tiers environ des industries belges et hollandaises se classeraient dans les coûts supérieurs aux coûts français ; ceux-ci demeureraient rares en Italie où un quart environ des industries conserverait des coûts globaux inférieurs aux coûts français.
Preliminary Analysis of PON3 rs2375003 Polymorphism in Pakistani Patients with Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Sameem Maryam , Arshad Muhammad
Published: October 2019

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is an inflammatory heart disease characterized by the narrowing of coronary arteries. Paraoxonase 3 (PON3) is a candidate gene for protection against CAD development as it reduces oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation. The present study aimed to
explore the association of PON3 rs2375003 polymorphism with CAD development and serum lipid levels in the Pakistani population. Study subjects included 300 CAD patients and 300 age and sex matched healthy individuals. The genotyping of rs2375003 polymorphism was done using an allele
specific polymerase chain reaction and serum lipid levels were determined. In this study, the genotype frequencies of rs2375003 polymorphismin in CAD patients were TT (2%), CT (8%), CC (90%) as compared to TT (3%), CT (6%), CC (91%) in the healthy subjects. No association was observed between
rs2375003 polymorphism and CAD risk (p>0.05). The CT genotype of rs2375003 polymorphism marginally increased the risk for CAD development (OR: 1.36; 95% CI 0.72-2.56) by causing a marginal rise in total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and a marginal
drop in high density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. The CT genotype of rs2375003 polymorphism and altered lipid levels might act as potential risk factors in the etiology of CAD in the Pakistani population.