bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Global Trends of Large Wind Farm Performance based on High Fidelity Simulations
Authors: Andersen Søren Juhl , Breton Simon-Philippe , Witha Björn , Ivanell Stefan , Sørensen Jens Nørkær
Published: February 2020

Abstract. A total of 18 high fidelity simulations of large wind farms have been performed by three different institutions using various inflow conditions and simulation setups. The setups differ in how the atmospheric turbulence, wind shear and wind turbine rotors are modelled, encompassing a wide range of commonly used modelling methods within the LES framework. Various turbine spacings, atmospheric turbulence intensity levels and incoming wind velocities are considered. The work performed is part of the International Energy Agency(IEA) wind task Wakebench, and is a continuation of previously published results on the subject. This work aims at providing a methodology for studying the general flow behavior in large wind farms in a systematic way. It seeks to investigate and further understand the global trends of wind farm performance, with a focus on variability. Parametric studies first map the effect of various parameters on large aligned wind farms, including wind turbine spacing, wind shear and atmospheric turbulence intensity. The results are then aggregated and compared to engineering models as well as LES results from other investigations to provide an overall picture of how much power can be extracted from large wind farms operating below rated level. The simple engineering models, although they cannot capture the variability features, capture the general trends well. Response surfaces are constructed based on the large amount of aggregated LES data corresponding to a wide range of large wind farm layouts. The response surfaces form a basis for mapping the inherently varying power characteristics inside very large wind farm, including how much the turbines are able to exploit the turbulent fluctuations within the wind farms and estimating the associated uncertainty, which is valuable information useful for risk mitigation.
Toxoplasma gondii AND OTHER PARASITES STUDIED IN FELINE FECES IN ZOOS IN CUBA AND BRAZIL
Authors: Villar Echarte Ginette , Da Silva Barbosa Alynne , Lima Pinheiro Jessica , Manuel Rodriguez Segon Alejandro , Mendes Augusto Anderson , Galindo Chenard Marina , Regina Reis Amendoeira Maria
Published: February 2020

Under certain circumstances, wild animals kept in zoos may be more exposed to infectious parasitic diseases. The puprpose of this study was to determine the frequency of gastrointestinal parasites in captive wild felids in the National Zoological Park (PZN) in Cuba (Havana) and in RioZoo in Brazil (Rio de Janeiro). A total of 52 fecal samples were collected from 52 felids, as follows: 19 Panthera leo, two Leopardus tigrinus, two Leopardus pardalis, one Panthera tigris altaica, four Panthera tigris tigris, six Panthera onca, seven Puma concolor, one Herpailurus yagouaroundi, three Acinonyx jubatus, two Caracal caracal and five Panthera pardus. The fecal samples were processed and examined microscopically. The frequency of parasite positive animals was 17.5% (7/40) in PZN and 25% (3/12) in RioZoo. Panthera pardus (40%) and Panthera onca (20%) were most frequently infected in PZN and Panthera leo (100%) and Leopardus pardalis (50%) in RioZoo. Hookworm (12.5%) was detected in PZN as well as Toxascaris leonina (10%) and in RioZoo nematode larvae (9.1%) , hookworm eggs (9.1%), Toxascaris leonina (2%) and the cestode eggs from the Diphyllobothriidae family (9.1%) were found. Toxoplasma gondii-like oocysts were not detected in feline feces. Although the positivity of gastrointestinal parasites detected in feline fecal samples was not very high in these zoos, both institutions need to implement and maintain sanitary measures, including routine diagnosis of parasitosis followed by specific treatment according to the infections detected.KEY WORDS: Captive wild felids; gastrointestinal parasites; National Zoo Park of Cuba; Rio de Janeiro Zoo; Brazil.
First sexual morph record of Sarcopodium vanillae
Authors: Chaiwan Napalai , Maharachchikumbura Sajeewa S.N. , Wanasinghe Dhanushka N. , Doilom Mingkwan , Jayawardena Ruvishika , Hyde Kevin D.
Published: February 2020

Sarcopodium vanillae was isolated from a dead leaf of Dracaena in Chiang Rai Province, Thailand. Combined analyses of ACT, ITS, LSU, and TUB2 sequence data obtained from the cultures derived from single spore isolates confirm that our collections represent S. vanillae.
This is the first record of the sexual morph, and the first record of S. vanillae from Dracaena. A description and illustrations of both sexual and asexual stages of S. vanillae are provided.
Ascomycota (lichenized and non-lichenized) on Syagrus coronata in the Caatinga biome: new and interesting records for Brazil and South America
Authors: dos Santos Maiara A.L. , Fortes Nilo G.S. , Silva Tássio E.F. , Vitória Nadja S.
Published: February 2020

Mycotaxon is pleased to add to our 'web-list' page the following new annotated species distribution list under South America (Brazil): "Ascomycota (lichenized and non-lichenized) on Syagrus coronata in the Caatinga biome: new and interesting records for Brazil and South
America" by Maiara A.L. dos Santos, Nilo G.S. Fortes, Tássio E.F. Silva, Nadja S. Vitória. This brings to 133 the number of free access Fungae now available on our website: http://www.mycotaxon.com/mycobiota/index.html
¿Qué fue la Nueva España?
Authors: del Castillo Múzquiz Luis
Published: February 2020

A cinco siglos del encuentro entre dos mundos, que dio inicio a un periodo histórico en el cual se gestaron los cimientos del México actual, se analizan varios aspectos del proceso de creación y consolidación de Nueva España, su papel dentro de la monarquía hispánica y la Iglesia católica, así como sus posibles consecuencias en el desarrollo de la cultura mexicana.
El control administrativo en el manejo ecoeficiente del agua y la energía: estudio una institución de educación superior
Authors: Aguilar Ibarra Alberto Felix , Tovar Torres de Aguilar Maria Clarisa
Published: February 2020

La investigación tuvo como objetivo determinar la relación entre el control administrativo y la ecoeficiencia del agua y de la energía eléctrica en la Facultad de Ciencias Empresariales de la Universidad Nacional de Educación Enrique Guzmán y Valle, Perú en 2018. La metodología utilizada fue de enfoque cuantitativo, diseño no experimental, de corte transversal, descriptivo y correlacional. La muestra fue 274 personas escogidas al azar entre docentes, personal de administración y estudiantes. Se aplicó un cuestionario estructurado por cada variable de estudio, con escalas de valoración para medir sus relaciones. Los datos se procesaron con el programa SPSS 24, con el que se demostró que los mismos no presentaron distribución normal y fueron analizados mediante prueba no paramétrica R de Spearman. Se obtuvo que existe correlación muy fuerte entre las variables de estudio (r >  0.5), y significativa (Sig. < 0.05).  Así mismo, se observó correlación muy fuerte y significativa entre las variables ecoeficiencia del agua y energía eléctrica, lo que demostró colinealidad. Se recomienda promover actividades en pro de la ecoeficiencia del uso de los recursos agua y electricidad a fin que sea la misma comunidad quien contribuya al uso adecuado de los recursos con el menor impacto ambiental.
Male circumcision and prostate cancer: A geographical analysis, meta-analysis, and cost analysis
Authors: Van Howe Robert Storms
Published: February 2020

Introduction: Attempts to find an association between male circumcision and prostate cancer risk have produced inconsistent results.

Methods: Age-standardized prostate cancer incidence, life-expectancy, geographical region, and circumcision prevalence from 188 countries were compared using linear regression analysis. Following a systematic literature review, a meta-analysis was performed on studies meeting inclusion criteria with evaluations of between-study heterogeneity and publication bias. A cost analysis (discounted at 3% and 5% per annum) was performed using the meta-analysis’s summary effect and upper confidence interval (CI).

Results: Univariate analysis revealed a trend for a positive association between country-level age-standardized prostate cancer incidence (per 100 000 person-years) and circumcision prevalence (β=0.0887; 95% CI -0.0560, +0.233) while multivariate analysis found a significant positive association (β=0.215; 95% CI 0.114, 0.316). Twelve studies were included in meta-analysis. The random-effects summary odds ratio was 1.09 (95% CI 0.95, 1.23; between-study heterogeneity
A 12-month feasibility study to investigate the effectiveness of cryogen-cooled monopolar radiofrequency treatment for female stress urinary incontinence
Authors: Allan Bruce B. , Bell Stacie , Husarek Kathryn
Published: February 2020

Introduction: The purpose of this early feasibility study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a non-ablative, cryogen-cooled, monopolar radiofrequency (CMRF) treatment for female stress urinary incontinence (SUI).

Methods: Subjects meeting all the inclusion and exclusion criteria were enrolled and randomized into two groups. Subjects in Group 1 received one CMRF treatment and subjects in Group 2 received two CMRF treatments six weeks apart. Followup visits were performed at one, four, six, and 12 months post-treatment. At each study visit, subjects performed an objective, standardized one-hour pad weight test and completed several patient-reported outcome measures, a seven-day bladder voiding diary, and safety assessments.

Results: Data indicate an improvement in SUI symptoms and quality of life for subjects, as determined by validated SUI-related patient-reported outcomes and the objective one-hour pad weight test, with a >50% reduction in pad weight from baseline for 52% of the subjects at 12 months. In addition to efficacy, the CMRF treatment was well-tolerated and safe.

Conclusions: The outcome measures evaluated indicate an improvement in SUI symptoms and quality of life. The sustained benefit of the CMRF vaginal treatment at 12 months suggests potential use as an office-based, non-surgical approach to treat mild to moderate SUI.
Advanced spheroidal degeneration
Authors: Elhusseiny, MD Abdelrahman M. , El Sheikh, MD Reem H. , Jamerson, MD Emery , Swaify, MD Islam Y. , Araissi, MD Ahmed B. , Saad, PhD Abdelaziz A.
Published: February 2020

Spheroidal degeneration, involving the cornea and/or the conjunctiva, is characterized by amber-colored homogeneous, translucent spherules in the corneal stroma, Bowman’s membrane, and subepithelium. The condition has a higher prevalence in areas with extreme temperatures, low humidity, high wind, and presence of sand. We report the case of a 46-year-old man with a 10-year history of gradual progressive diminution of vision, severe blepharospasm, and photophobia. Examination revealed bilateral plaques of amber-colored nodules covering about half of the cornea. Superficial keratectomy was performed for the lesions in both eyes, leaving an epithelial defect overlying a plane of opaque cornea. Histopathology showed amorphous protein in the anterior stroma, confirming the clinical diagnosis of advanced grade 4 spheroidal degeneration. Visual acuity and other symptoms dramatically improved, and the patient was scheduled for keratoplasty.
A 24-year-old woman with sudden-onset, unilateral vision loss
Authors: Khalili Parisa , Adib Nazanin Ebrahimi , Jafari Hassan Khojasteh , Shamsi Reza , Dehghani Shima
Published: February 2020

A 24-year-old woman presented at the Al Zahra Eye Hospital, Zahedan, Iran, with sudden-onset, painless vision loss in her left eye of 10 days’ duration. She described an obscuration in her vision like an oil droplet. There was no history of recent flulike syndromes or surgery. She reported no medications. Family history was negative for a similar condition.
O VOO LIVRE COMO CONTEÚDO DA EDUCAÇÃO FÍSICA NA EDUCAÇÃO INFANTIL: DESCOBERTAS E DESAFIOS
Authors: Santiago Juliana Silva , Lenhardt Luísa , Silva José Ricardo , Pinto Fabio Machado
Published: February 2020

This article reports and reflects on the teaching of hang gliding in Physical Education classes in kindergarten. We take this body practice as an object of teaching in articulation with the literary content explored by the group's teacher and the intense practice of adventure sports in the city, including free flight. Thus, we aim to provide a systematized knowledge about this content little explored by Physical Education, relating free flight to body experiences such as balance, running, jumping, fear and safety equipment. The activities took place in a kindergarten institution linked to a federal university in the context of the school Physical Education internship. Seventeen children between the ages of 5 and 6 years old participated directly in this teaching experiment, the class teacher, a daycare assistant, a pedagogy intern, a physical education teacher and 2 physical education interns. As a result we highlight that this teaching experience provided the children with the ability to identify and differentiate between paragliding hang gliding while experiencing balance / imbalance situations in high and low places, building toys, playing games and making contact with real equipment. The feelings of vertigo, fear, confidence, joy and security were experienced and objects of reflection together with the children in order to know, name and overcome them. Finally, we emphasize the importance of teacher education, the planning and teaching of adventure practices, as well as better knowing the subjects of this process.
Lessons from Baghdad City Conformation and Essence
Authors: J.E. Al-Saaidy Haider
Published: February 2020

This chapter aims to address the emergence of Baghdad and the phases of its morphology and transformation. The first era began with the Round City; this originated the first nucleus that later formed Baghdad. The historical parts of most Middle Eastern old cities usually occupy polar places in relation to the rest of their city zones. These historical centres can give a city its own identity and embody exceptional urban assets, if carefully maintained and managed. In this chapter, there are two significant periods, the Abbasid Empire and post-Abbasid Empire. One of the main concerns is the conflict between two trends, old fabric as a traditional pattern and modern thoughts and, consequently, how that could affect in formulating the development plan.
Carbapenem Resistance: Mechanisms and Drivers of Global Menace
Authors: Aslam Bilal , Rasool Maria , Muzammil Saima , Baker Siddique Abu , Nawaz Zeeshan , Shafique Muhammad , Asif Zahoor Muhammad , Binyamin Rana , Waseem Muhammad , Khurshid Mohsin , Arshad Muhammad Imran , Aamir Aslam Muhammad , Shahzad Naveed , Hidayat Rasool Muhammad , Baloch Zulqarnain
Published: February 2020

The emergence of carbapenem-resistant bacterial pathogens is a significant and mounting health concern across the globe. At present, carbapenem resistance (CR) is considered as one of the most concerning resistance mechanisms and mainly found in gram-negative bacteria of the Enterobacteriaceae family. Although carbapenem resistance has been recognized in Enterobacteriaceae from last 20 years or so, recently it emerged as a global health issue as CR clonal dissemination of various Enterobacteriaceae members especially E. coli, and Klebsiella pneumoniae are reported from across the globe at an alarming rate. Phenotypically, carbapenems resistance is in due to the two key mechanisms, like structural mutation coupled with β-lactamase production and the ability of the pathogen to produce carbapenemases which ultimately hydrolyze the carbapenem. Additionally, penicillin-binding protein modification and efflux pumps are also responsible for the development of carbapenem resistance. Carbapenemases are classified into different classes which include Ambler classes A, B, and D. Several mobile genetic elements (MGEs) have their potential role in carbapenem resistance like Tn4401, Class I integrons, IncFIIK2, IncF1A, and IncI2. Taking together, resistance against carbapenems is continuously evolving and posing a significant health threat to the community. Variable mechanisms that are associated with carbapenem resistance, different MGEs, and supplementary mechanisms of antibiotic resistance in association with virulence factors are expanding day by day. Timely demonstration of this global health concern by using molecular tools, epidemiological investigations, and screening may permit the suitable measures to control this public health menace.
Vinpocetine and Ischemic Stroke
Authors: M. Al-kuraishy Hayder , I. Al-Gareeb Ali
Published: February 2020

Vinpocetine (VPN) is a synthetic ethyl-ester derivative of the alkaloid apovincamine from Vinca minor leaves. VPN is a selective inhibitor of phosphodiesterase type 1 (PDE1) has potential neurological effects through inhibition of voltage gated sodium channel and reduction of neuronal calcium influx. VPN have noteworthy antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects with inhibitory effect on glial and astrocyte cells during and following ischemic stroke (IS). VPN is effective as an adjuvant therapy in the management of epilepsy; it reduces seizure frequency by 50% in a dose of 2 mg/kg/day. VPN improves psychomotor performances through modulation of brain monoamine pathway mainly on dopamine and serotonin, which play an integral role in attenuation of depressive symptoms. VPN recover cognitive functions and spatial memory through inhibition of hippocampal and cortical PDE-1with augmentation of cAMP/cGMP ratio, enhancement of cholinergic neurotransmission and inhibition of neuronal inflammatory mediators. Therefore, VPN is an effective agent in the management of ischemic stroke and plays an integral role in the prevention and attenuation of post-stroke epilepsy, depression and cognitive deficit through direct cAMP/cGMP-dependent pathway or indirectly through anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects.
Chronic Migraine in Adolescence
Authors: Antonio da Silva Cristovam Marcos , Albiero Piélak Daniel , Deitos Júlia , Natsumi Hashimoto Júlia , Vaz Meleiro Lopes Lorena , Manfredin Vila Luísa
Published: February 2020

Chronic migraine (CM) is a clinically and epidemiologically important disease that generates considerable impairment to those affected by it, since there is evidence of higher incidence of depression, anxiety, and chronic pain in patients with this condition. It is characterized by the occurrence of headache for at least 8 migraine days in a month and at least 15 headache days in the same month. Despite the similarity in CM presented in adults, when in adolescents it has some particularities. Thus, the aim of this chapter was to conduct a literature review, using the databases: PubMed, SciELO, and LILACS, in addition to text books, explaining the definition, epidemiology, risk factors, diagnosis, pathophysiology, treatment, and prevention of CM in adolescent population.
Reference speed dating: Creating a spark at the reference desk
Authors: Kantor Sarah
Published: February 2020

Reference services, whether face-to-face or virtual, have been and remain a core library service. The importance of reference services is reflected in the library and information science (LIS) curriculum, but it is often overlooked in continuing education opportunities for librarians. In both master’s degree programs and the few continuing education offerings for reference services, instructors generally focus on the reference interview. For many working librarians, this can feel rote and ineffectual. After all, they already learned this in school. Experienced librarians may also feel that the reference interview is old hat, while newer librarians would benefit more from real-world practice than a repeat of their reference class.
Freedom and Arbitrariness. The Relevance of Kant’s Ethics and the Modern World. Report of the 16th Saratov Philosophical Workshop (Saratov, 14 May 2019)
Authors: Tetjuev Leonid I. , Lebedeva Аnastasia V.
Published: February 2020

This review presents the discussion on “Freedom and Arbitrariness. The Relevance of Kant’s Ethics and the Modern World”, which took place at the 16th Philosophical Workshop “I. Kant and the Current Problems of Modern Philosophy” held in Saratov on 14 May 2019. The discussion was organised by the Department of Ethics and Esthetics at the Philosophical Faculty of the N. G. Chernyshevsky Saratov State University and the Department of Ontology and Epistemology of the Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (Moscow). The discussion of Kant’s treatment of the problem of freedom was prompted by the historical and philosophical context of the perception of his ideas by German and Russian Neo-Kantians as reflected in the presentations and interventions during the course of the discussion.
Reseña de: Páez Cot, C. 2017. Alas de Papel. Una nueva mirada hacia las personas que sufren trastorno mental
Authors: Hernandez Casado Nuria
Published: February 2020

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High School Youth and E-cigarettes: The Influence of Modified Risk Statements and Flavors on E-cigarette Packaging
Authors: Katz Sherri Jean , Shi Weijia , Erkkinen Meghan , Lindgren Bruce , Hatsukami Dorothy
Published: February 2020

Objectives: In this paper, we test variations of e-cigarette warning labels on high school youth, alone, and alongside modified risk statements (MRS) and/or flavors, to determine how perceptions of and intentions toward use of e-cigarettes are influenced by these package elements.
Methods: An experiment (N = 715 high school youth) varied the warning label participants viewed (FDA warning label/ MarkTen warning label/ abstract warning label) and whether they viewed the label alone or alongside MRS and/or flavors. Results: Drawing upon the Heuristic Systematic
Model, we found that youth who view an MRS with any of the warning labels are more likely to engage in counterarguing (compared to the FDA warning label alone), which increases risk perceptions. Additionally, the greater youth perceive the risks associated with e-cigarettes, the lower their
intentions of using them, even if they have tried an e-cigarette in the past. Conclusions: Tobacco education and public health messages should encourage youth to evaluate the tobacco industry messages they receive, as counterarguing is associated with higher risk perceptions. Furthermore,
fostering increased awareness of the risks associated with e-cigarette use by youth can reduce intentions to use them.
The Influence of Cognitive Impairment on Health Behaviors among Older Adults
Authors: Kang Sung-wan , Xiang Xiaoling
Published: February 2020

Objectives: Previous research on cognitive impairment and health behaviors has focused largely on how health behaviors affect cognition; rarely has it examined whether cognitive impairment affects health behaviors. The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of cognitive
impairment on engagement in health behaviors among older adults. Methods: The study sample included 19,644 adults aged 50 or older from the Health and Retirement Study 1995-2012 surveys. We used mixed-effects logistic regression to analyze the influence of cognitive impairment, measured
using the Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status, on the engagement of health behaviors including physical activity, smoking, and drinking. Results: Cognitive impairment without dementia [CIND] (OR = .84, 95% CI = .80-.89) and dementia (OR = .68, 95% CI = .61-.75) were associated
with a lower likelihood of engaging in regular vigorous physical activity during longitudinal follow-up, after adjusting for covariates. CIND or dementia was not significantly associated with the likelihood of smoking or alcohol consumption. Conclusions: CIND and dementia are risk factors
for physical inactivity among older adults. Promotion of regular physical activity should be an essential component of health promotion programs for persons with cognitive impairment.
Performance of Test Supermartingale Confidence Intervals for the Success Probability of Bernoulli Trials
Authors: Wills Peter , Knill Emanuel , Coakley Kevin , Zhang Yanbao
Published: February 2020

Given a composite null hypothesis H0, test supermartingales are non-negative supermartingales with respect to H0 with an initial value of 1. Large values of test supermartingales provide evidence against H0. As a result, test supermartingales are an effective tool for rejecting H0, particularly when the p-values obtained are very small and serve as certificates against the null hypothesis. Examples include the rejection of local realism as an explanation of Bell test experiments in the foundations of physics and the certification of entanglement in quantum information science. Test supermartingales have the advantage of being adaptable during an experiment and allowing for arbitrary stopping rules. By inversion of acceptance regions, they can also be used to determine confidence sets. We used an example to compare the performance of test supermartingales for computing p-values and confidence intervals to Chernoff-Hoeffding bounds and the “exact” p-value. The example is the problem of inferring the probability of success in a sequence of Bernoulli trials. There is a cost in using a technique that has no restriction on stopping rules, and, for a particular test supermartingale, our study quantifies this cost.
Expressions ordinaires et politiques du racisme anti-autochtone au Québec
Authors: Capitaine Brieg
Published: February 2020

Contrairement aux approches systémiques du racisme, cet article s’intéresse aux acteurs racistes et aux différentes logiques qui structurent leurs pratiques et leurs discours. Il cherche à comprendre la manière dont s’articulent le racisme différentialiste, le racisme d’infériorisation et le racisme universaliste. L’enquête ethnographique menée à Sept-Îles au Québec entre 2005 et 2009 met en évidence les pratiques et les discours racistes en se concentrant principalement sur deux situations conflictuelles : l’entrée des Innus dans le secteur des pêches commerciales et les revendications territoriales pour la restitution du Nitassinan. L’analyse de ces situations de nature économique et politique permet de discerner les multiples articulations des logiques du racisme et leurs variations en fonction des acteurs, de leurs positions et des rapports qu’ils entretiennent avec les Innus. Le racisme anti-autochtone apparaît traversé par un ensemble de tensions et d’oppositions qui en font un phénomène non pas unifié, mais plutôt éclaté.
Potential impact of outpatient stewardship interventions on antibiotic exposures of common bacterial pathogens
Authors: Tedijanto Christine , Grad Yonatan H , Lipsitch Marc
Published: February 2020

The relationship between antibiotic stewardship and population levels of antibiotic resistance remains unclear. In order to better understand shifts in selective pressure due to stewardship, we use publicly available data to estimate the effect of changes in prescribing on exposures to frequently used antibiotics experienced by potentially pathogenic bacteria that are asymptomatically colonizing the microbiome. We quantify this impact under four hypothetical stewardship strategies. In one scenario, we estimate that elimination of all unnecessary outpatient antibiotic use could avert 6% to 48% (IQR: 17% to 31%) of exposures across pairwise combinations of sixteen common antibiotics and nine bacterial pathogens. All scenarios demonstrate that stewardship interventions, facilitated by changes in clinician behavior and improved diagnostics, have the opportunity to broadly reduce antibiotic exposures across a range of potential pathogens. Concurrent approaches, such as vaccines aiming to reduce infection incidence, are needed to further decrease exposures occurring in ‘necessary’ contexts.
Isolation and characterization of vaginal Lactobacillus spp. in dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius): in vitro evaluation of probiotic potential of selected isolates
Authors: El-Deeb Wael M. , Fayez Mahmoud , Elsohaby Ibrahim , Ghoneim Ibrahim , Al-Marri Theeb , Kandeel Mahmoud , ElGioushy Magdy
Published: February 2020

Lactobacillus spp. is one of the beneficial lactic acid producing microbiota in the vagina, which is important for a healthy vaginal environment. However, little is known about vaginal Lactobacillus in dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius). Therefore, this study aimed to isolate vaginal lactic acid bacteria (LAB) in dromedary camels and to study the probiotic potential of selected isolates. A total of 75 vaginal swabs were collected from pluriparous, non-pregnant, non-lactating dromedary camels. The LAB were isolated using deMan, Rogosa and Sharpe broth and agar media. Suspected LAB isolates were subjected to catalase testing and Gram staining and examined for indole production, nitrate reduction, hemolytic activity, cell surface hydrophobicity, auto- and coaggregation, antibacterial activity and characterized by 16S rRNA amplification and sequencing. Eighteen LABs were isolated from the 75 vaginal swabs. Among the 18 LAB isolates, six were Lactobacillus plantarum, eight were Lactobacillus fermentum, and four were Lactobacillus rhamnosus. None of the LAB isolates was hemolytic and only four LAB were H2O2 producing. The percentage of hydrophobicity ranged from 0% to 49.6%, 0% to 44.3% and 0% to 41.6% for hexadecane, xylene and toluene, respectively. All isolates showed higher (P < 0.05) autoaggregation after 24 h of incubation compared to 4 h. Furthermore, all LAB showed higher coaggregation (P < 0.05) and antimicrobial activity toward Staphylococcus aureus than to Escherichia coli. All LAB isolates were vancomycin resistant and sensitive to streptomycin, erythromycin, kanamycin and chloramphenicol. Only, three LAB isolates were resistant to tetracycline. The dromedary camel vaginal LAB isolates exhibited varying degrees of in vitro probiotic properties tested in this study and showed promising activity against the most common bacterial causes of endometritis in dromedary camels. Further investigation of the in vivo effect of these isolates is warranted.
Postharvest biochemical characteristics and ultrastructure ofCoprinus comatus
Authors: Peng Yi , Li Tongling , Jiang Huaming , Gu Yunfu , Chen Qiang , Yang Cairong , Qi Wei liang , Liu Song-qing , Zhang Xiaoping
Published: February 2020

Background

Coprinus comatusis a novel cultivated edible fungus, hailed as a new preeminent breed of mushroom. However,C. comatusis difficult to keep fresh at room temperature after harvest due to high respiration, browning, self-dissolve and lack of physical protection.

Methods

In order to extend the shelf life ofC. comatusand reduce its loss in storage, changes in quality, biochemical content, cell wall metabolism and ultrastructure ofC. comatus(C.c77) under 4 °C and 90% RH storage regimes were investigated in this study.

Results

The results showed that: (1) After 10 days of storage, mushrooms appeared acutely browning, cap opening and flowing black juice, rendering the mushrooms commercially unacceptable. (2) The activity of SOD, CAT, POD gradually increased, peaked at the day 10, up to 31.62 U g−1 FW, 16.51 U g−1 FW, 0.33 U g−1FW, respectively. High SOD, CAT, POD activity could be beneficial in protecting cells from ROS-induced injuries, alleviating lipid peroxidation and stabilizing membrane integrity. (3) The activities of chitinase, β-1,3-glucanase were significantly increased. Higher degrees of cell wall degradation observed during storage might be due to those enzymes’ high activities. (4) The freshC. comatushad dense tissue and every single cell had the number of intracellular organelles which structure can be observed clearly. After 10 d storage, the number of intracellular organelles was declined and the structure was fuzzy, the nucleus disappeared. After 20 d storage,C. comatus’s organization was completely lost, many cells were stacked together and the cell wall was badly damaged.
Nutritional Study of Processed Amygdalus communis L. Sesamum indicum and Bertholletia excelsa Nuts on Two Weeks Old Wistar Rats
Authors: Onyegeme-Okerenta Blessing M. , Steve Omeodu , Peace Ijeoma Okere
Published: February 2020

The study evaluated the nutritional benefits of processed Almond nuts, Sesame seeds and Brazil nut on two weeks old Wistar rats. The rats were weighed and arranged into seven groups and feed for 4 weeks. Group one (control) was fed with commercial rat feed and distilled water. Group two was fed with a diet formulated from Brazil nuts and distilled water. Group three was fed with a diet formulated from almond seeds and distilled water only while Group four was fed with a diet formulated from sesame seeds. Group five was fed with diet from sesame + almond seeds while Group six was fed with a diet formulated from Brazil +almond nuts. Group seven was fed with a diet formulated from Brazil + Almond nuts +Sesame seeds. Biochemical and haematological analyses were carried out applying standard methods and procedures. Results for proximate analysis indicated that Brazil nut contains 4.03% Ash, 7.61% crude moisture, 43.74% crude lipid, 12.82% crude protein, 8.7% crude fibre and 28.1% carbohydrate. Plasma enzyme activities of rats fed with Brazil nuts were: ALT (22.96±1.95U/l), AST (66.49±3.33 U/l), ALP (64.18±2.76 (U/l) and GGT (6.89±1.69 (U/l). Total protein, albumin, and total bilirubin concentrations were 53.56±2.03 g/dl, 32.13±1.21 g/dl and 3.82±0.20 g/dl respectively. Total cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL and HDL concentrations were 2.83±0.42 mmol/l, 1.35±0.02 mmol/l, 4.10±0.19 mmol/l, 4.72±0.13 mmol/l respectively. The PCV, Hb, WBC, RBC, Platelet and MCV concentrations of rats fed with Brazil nuts only were 48.20±1.79%, 15.02±0.65 g/dl, 7.06±0.44 X103/mm3, 7.28±0.23 X106/mm3, 195.00±5.79 X103/ml, and 6.63±0.43 X10-7fl respectively which were significantly (p<0.05) different from the control values. The result is suggestive that they can be incorporated as a supplementary diet for Wistar rats. However, the results obtained from rats feed with almond and Brazil nuts were more significant when compared with sesame seeds.
Overweight, underweight, and obesity among male long-distance professional drivers in Iran
Authors: Pourabdian Siamak , Golshiri Parastoo , Janghorbani Mohsen
Published: February 2020

Objective

Long-distance professional drivers, as an occupational group, are hypothesized to have a higher risk of overweight and obesity. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence and risk factors of overweight, underweight, and obesity in long-distance professional drivers.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 36 625 male long-distance professional drivers age ≥20 years, from April 2013 to Sept. 2016. Drivers were interviewed and underwent clinical and laboratory examinations including measures of blood pressure (BP), blood tests, anthropometric data, and visual and hearing acuity. The mean (standard deviation [SD]) age of participants was 41.9 (10.2) years with a mean (SD) duration of a professional driving of 15.3 (9.6) years and mean (SD) body mass index (BMI) was 25.7 (4.0) kg/m2.

Results

The prevalence of overweight and obesity was 39.1% (95% confidence interval (CI) 38.6, 39.6) and 10.8% (95% CI 10.5, 11.1), respectively. A total percentage of 2.7 (95% CI 2.5, 2.9) were underweight. A total percentage of 10.6 had BMI 30-40 kg/m2 and 0.2% had BMI ≥40 kg/m2. Using a stepwise binary logistic regression model for overweight, underweight, and obesity, age had a significant independent relationship with underweight, overweight, and obesity. Duration of work, BP, fasting plasma glucose, triglyceride, and cholesterol had significant independent positive association and smoking had a negative association with overweight/obesity when other covariates were considered.

Conclusions

These findings indicate that overweight and obesity are prevalent among long-distance professional drivers in Iran and appears to be similar to the general population.
Visual spatial learning outcomes for clinical trials in neurofibromatosis type 1
Authors: Ullrich Nicole J. , Payne Jonathan M. , Walsh Karin S. , Cutter Gary , Packer Roger , North Kathryn , Rey‐Casserly Celiane ,   the NF Clinical Trials Consortium
Published: February 2020

Cognitive problems are common in children with neurofibromatosis type 1, representing a significant source of lifelong morbidity. Assessment of cognitive function has been challenging in the setting of clinical trials. Spatial learning deficits may be an important target for cognitive interventions. We leveraged a large, international cognitive study in affected children with NF1 treated with lovastatin to assess spatial learning using the “Arena Maze”, a portable, computerized task that allows for retesting in the same environment. As with the parent study, spatial learning assessed with this task did not improve with lovastatin treatment.
Controlling the Properties of Additively Manufactured Cellular Structures Using Machine Learning Approaches
Authors: Hassanin Hany , Alkendi Yusra , Elsayed Mahmoud , Essa Khamis , Zweiri Yahya
Published: February 2020

Cellular structures are lightweight‐engineered materials that have gained much attention with the development of additive manufacturing technologies. This article introduces a precise approach to predict the mechanical properties of additively manufactured lattice structures using deep‐learning approaches. Diamond‐shaped nodal lattice structures are designed by varying strut length, strut diameter, and strut orientation angle. The samples are manufactured using laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) of Ti−64 alloy and subjected to compression testing to measure the ultimate strength, elastic modulus, and specific strength. Machine learning approaches such as shallow neural network (SNN), deep neural network (DNN), and deep learning neural network (DLNN) are developed and compared to the statistical design of experiment (DoE) approach. The trained DLNN model show the highest performance when compared with DNN, DoE, and SNN with a mean percentage error of 5.26%, 14.60%, and 9.39% for the ultimate strength, elastic modulus, and specific strength, respectively. The DLNN model is used to create process maps, and is further validated. The results show that although deep learning is preferred for big data, the optimized DLNN model outperform the statistical DoE approach and can be a favorable tool for lattice structure prediction with limited data.
Recent Progress and Future Directions of Multifunctional (Super)Wetting Smooth/Structured Surfaces and Coatings
Authors: Archer Richard James , Becher‐Nienhaus Brandon , Dunderdale Gary J. , Hozumi Atsushi
Published: February 2020

Research on superwetting surfaces/coatings that artificially mimic biological surfaces/systems has a long history, and still garners significant worldwide interest as it is expected to provide superior solutions to conventional engineering approaches that attempt to solve challenges facing mankind. To broaden the utility of these superwetting surfaces/coatings, there is a strong demand for these surfaces to exhibit multiple practical functionalities. Here, the progress being made in multifunctional surfaces with superwettability is explored. In each section, state‐of‐the‐art works are summarized and the concepts, materials, processes, and the effects of both physical (smooth or structured surfaces) and chemical (low or high surface energies) factors on the resulting surface are described. Finally, the outlook of this prospective research field is considered, and its future directions briefly discussed, with a focus on preserving longevity in both functionality and structural integrity to produce truly useful biomimetic surfaces/coatings.
Cell Encapsulation Systems Toward Modular Tissue Regeneration: From Immunoisolation to Multifunctional Devices
Authors: Correia Clara R. , Nadine Sara , Mano João F.
Published: February 2020

In the primordial cell encapsulation systems, the main goal is to treat endocrine diseases avoiding the action of the immune system. Although lessons afforded by such systems are of outmost importance for the demands of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, the paradigm has recently completely changed. If before the most important feature was to mask the encapsulated cells from the immune system, now it is known that the synergetic interplay between immune cells and the engineered niche is responsible for an adequate regenerative process. Combined with such immuno‐awareness, novel or nonconventional emerging techniques are being proposed to develop the new generation of cell encapsulation systems, namely layer‐by‐layer, microfluidics, superhydrophobic surfaces, and bioprinting technologies. Alongside the desire to create more realistic cell encapsulation systems, cell‐laden hydrogels are being explored as building blocks for bottom‐up strategies, within the concept of modular tissue engineering. The idea is to use the well‐established cell‐friendly environment provided by hydrogels and create more close‐to‐native systems that possess high heterogeneity, while providing multifunctional and adaptive inputs.
Low‐Spin‐State Hematite with Superior Adsorption of Anionic Contaminations for Water Purification
Authors: Shen Guoqiang , Pan Lun , Zhang Rongrong , Sun Shangcong , Hou Fang , Zhang Xiangwen , Zou Ji‐Jun
Published: February 2020

Hematite attracts intensive interest as an adsorbent for water purification, but the oversized dimension and inherent high‐spin Fe(III) restrict its adsorption capability and kinetics. Herein a spatial‐confinement strategy is reported that synthesizes ultrafine α‐Fe2O3 benefiting from nanogrids constructed by predeposition of TiO2 nanodots in the MCM‐41 channel, and that tunes the spin‐state of Fe(III) from high‐spin to low‐spin induced by the strong guest–host interaction between the ultrafine Fe2O3 with SiO2 (MCM‐41). The low‐spin Fe(III) endorses strong bonding with anionic adsorbates, and significantly facilitates the electrons transfer from Fe2O3 to SiO2 to form a highly positive charged surface, and thereby shows superior electrostatic multilayer adsorption performance to different kinds of anionic contaminations. Specifically, the maximum uptake, adsorption rate, and distribution coefficient (Kd) for Rose Bengal dye reach as high as 1810 mg g−1, 1644 g (g min)−1, and 2.2 × 106 L kg−1, which are more than 8, 230, and 3700 times higher than those of commercial activated carbon, respectively. It also shows outstanding purification performance for real field water. It is demonstrated that a strong guest–host interaction can alter the spin‐state of transition metal oxides, which may pave a new way to improve their performance in adsorption and other applications like catalysis.
Biomass‐Derived Hybrid Hydrogel Evaporators for Cost‐Effective Solar Water Purification
Authors: Guo Youhong , Lu Hengyi , Zhao Fei , Zhou Xingyi , Shi Wen , Yu Guihua
Published: February 2020

Solar vapor generation has presented great potential for wastewater treatment and seawater desalination with high energy conversion and utilization efficiency. However, technology gaps still exist for achieving a fast evaporation rate and high quality of water combined with low‐cost deployment to provide a sustainable solar‐driven water purification system. In this study, a naturally abundant biomass, konjac glucomannan, together with simple‐to‐fabricate iron‐based metal‐organic framework‐derived photothermal nanoparticles is introduced into the polyvinyl alcohol networks, building hybrid hydrogel evaporators in a cost‐effective fashion ($14.9 m−2 of total materials cost). With advantageous features of adequate water transport, effective water activation, and anti‐salt‐fouling function, the hybrid hydrogel evaporators achieve a high evaporation rate under one sun (1 kW m−2) at 3.2 kg m−2 h−1 out of wastewater with wide degrees of acidity and alkalinity (pH 2–14) and high‐salinity seawater (up to 330 g kg−1). More notably, heavy metal ions are removed effectively by forming hydrogen and chelating bonds with excess hydroxyl groups in the hydrogel. It is anticipated that this study offers new possibilities for a deployable, cost‐effective solar water purification system with assured water quality, especially for economically stressed communities.
Multiplexed NIR‐II Probes for Lymph Node‐Invaded Cancer Detection and Imaging‐Guided Surgery
Authors: Tian Rui , Ma Huilong , Zhu Shoujun , Lau Joseph , Ma Rui , Liu Yijing , Lin Lisen , Chandra Swati , Wang Sheng , Zhu Xingfu , Deng Hongzhang , Niu Gang , Zhang Mingxi , Antaris Alexander L. , Hettie Kenneth S. , Yang Bai , Liang Yongye , Chen Xiaoyuan
Published: February 2020

Tumor‐lymph node (LN) metastasis is the dominant prognostic factor for tumor staging and therapeutic decision‐making. However, concurrently visualizing metastasis and performing imaging‐guided lymph node surgery is challenging. Here, a multiplexed‐near‐infrared‐II (NIR‐II) in vivo imaging system using nonoverlapping NIR‐II probes with markedly suppressed photon scattering and zero‐autofluorescence is reported, which enables visualization of the metastatic tumor and the tumor metastatic proximal LNs resection. A bright and tumor‐seeking donor–acceptor–donor (D‐A‐D) dye, IR‐FD, is screened for primary/metastatic tumor imaging in the NIR‐IIa (1100–1300 nm) window. This optimized D‐A‐D dye exhibits greatly improved quantum yield of organic D‐A‐D fluorophores in aqueous solutions (≈6.0%) and good in vivo performance. Ultrabright PbS/CdS core/shell quantum dots (QDs) with dense polymer coating are used to visualize cancer‐invaded sentinel LNs in the NIR‐IIb (>1500 nm) window. Compared to clinically used indocyanine green, the QDs show superior brightness and photostability (no obvious bleaching even after continuous laser irradiation for 5 h); thus, only a picomolar dose is required for sentinel LNs detection. This combination of dual‐NIR‐II image‐guided surgery can be performed under bright light, adding to its convenience and appeal in clinical use.
Graphdiyne Derivative as Multifunctional Solid Additive in Binary Organic Solar Cells with 17.3% Efficiency and High Reproductivity
Authors: Liu Le , Kan Yuanyuan , Gao Ke , Wang Jianxiao , Zhao Min , Chen Hao , Zhao Chengjie , Jiu Tonggang , Jen Alex‐K.‐Y. , Li Yuliang
Published: February 2020

Morphology tuning of the blend film in organic solar cells (OSCs) is a key approach to improve device efficiencies. Among various strategies, solid additive is proposed as a simple and new way to enable morphology tuning. However, there exist few solid additives reported to meet such expectations. Herein, chlorine‐functionalized graphdiyne (GCl) is successfully applied as a multifunctional solid additive to fine‐tune the morphology and improve device efficiency as well as reproductivity for the first time. Compared with 15.6% efficiency for control devices, a record high efficiency of 17.3% with the certified one of 17.1% is obtained along with the simultaneous increase of short‐circuit current (Jsc) and fill factor (FF), displaying the state‐of‐the‐art binary organic solar cells at present. The redshift of the film absorption, enhanced crystallinity, prominent phase separation, improved mobility, and decreased charge recombination synergistically account for the increase of Jsc and FF after introducing GCl into the blend film. Moreover, the addition of GCl dramatically reduces batch‐to‐batch variations benefiting mass production owing to the nonvolatile property of GCl. All these results confirm the efficacy of GCl to enhance device performance, demonstrating a promising application of GCl as a multifunctional solid additive in the field of OSCs.