bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on the Correlation between Microorganism and Quality Formation of Pu’ er Tea during Fermentation
Authors: Wang Bin
Published: November 2019

Pu’ er tea is a solid-state fermented tea by microorganisms, and its fermentation can not be separated from the role of microorganisms. The dynamic changes of microorganisms in the fermentation process of Pu’ er tea have an important effect on the quality of Pu’ er tea. In this paper, the correlation between microorganism activity and its metabolites and the flavor quality of Pu’ er tea during the fermentation process of its fermentation is studied by analyzing the changes of microorganisms in the process of Pu’ er tea fermentation at various stages, which has provided a scientific theoretical guidance for the fermentation process of Pu’ er tea.
The Research Progress in On-Chip Mode (De)multiplexer
Authors: Zezhi WU
Published: November 2019

With the increasing integration of communication devices and the demand for communication capacity, the methods to increase bandwidth and transmission capacity have attracted lots of attentions. As a new multiplexing dimension, mode division multiplexing (MDM) can effectively improve transmission capacity, in which different modes are utilized for data transmission. In this paper, we investigate the recent progress in on-chip mode (de)multiplexer, which is the key technology to realize mode (de)multiplexing. Firstly, several traditional on-chip mode (de)multiplexers are introduced, including mode (de)multiplexers based on Multi-Mode Interference (MMI), Adiabatic Coupler, Asymmetric Y-Junction, Asymmetry Directional Coupler (ADC) and Micro-ring Resonator (MMR), respectively. Secondly, hybrid (de)multiplexers combining MDM with Polarization Division Multiplexing (PDM) or Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) are discussed. Finally, this paper looks forward to the development prospects of on-chip mode multiplexing technology.
Experimental investigation into perceived air quality and sick building syndrome of stratum ventilation under heating mode
Authors: Cheng Fanghui , Tian Xue , Li Bozheng , Qi Bing , Cheng Yong
Published: November 2019

Stratum ventilation was able to provide satisfactory thermal sensation under heating mode, but its performance on perceived air quality and SBS (sick building syndrome) was still unknown. This study objectively measured indoor CO2 concentration and subjectively surveyed human responses to perceived air quality and SBS symptoms in a stratum-ventilated classroom under the heating mode. Three cases with different supply air velocities and temperatures were designed. Twenty-three subjects were recruited to attend this study. The results showed that indoor CO2 concentration under the three cases were all below 900 ppm and the contaminant removal effectiveness could be up to 1.9, indicating good indoor air quality. With proper designs of supply air velocity and temperature, the perceived air was fresh, and the perceived air quality was acceptable. The percentage of the subjects having SBS symptoms were below 20%. Therefore, stratum ventilation could bring satisfactory perceived air quality with few SBS symptoms under the heating mode.
Study on mechanical properties and damage evolution characteristics of granite under different stress paths
Authors: Zhu Anqi , Zhou Zhiwei , Zhang Qiangxing , Liao Yilin , Xu Deng , Liu Jianfeng
Published: November 2019

In order to study the strength and damage characteristics of surrounding rocks of the first high-level radioactive waste repository in Beishan, Gansu Province, China, uniaxial compression, uniaxial cyclic loading and unloading, and triaxial cyclic loading and unloading of deep granite at the depth of 450∼480m of BS15 borehole in Beishan preferred area were performmed on MTS815 rock mechanics experimental equipment and acoustic emission monitoring system. The test results show that: (1) the cyclic loading and unloading process causes continuous damage in the specimen, and the peak stress and elasticity of granite under uniaxial cyclic loading and unloading decrease by 8.10% and 5.01% respectively,compared with the uniaxial loading test; (2) the confining pressure effect restrains the formation of internal damage in the rock, comparing to uniaxial cyclic loading and unloading, peak stress and modulus of elasticity under triaxial loading and unloading increased by 42.11% and 13.80%. (3) under different stress paths, the number of cyclic loading and unloading increased, the damage variable increased, and the damage degree of rock increased. The damage evolution rate under triaxial condition is slower than that under uniaxial condition, and the damage evolution process in yield and post-peak stage is less severe than that under uniaxial condition.
Analysis of the Problems Accounting Information Distortion for the Listed Companies
Authors: Sun Junna , Lei Hongzhen , Li Yun
Published: November 2019

In this paper, the research results of scholars is referenced at home and abroad, the social reality is combined with, the problem of accounting information distortion of the listed companies is expounded, the background and related concepts of accounting information distortion are introduced, the performance and harms of accounting information distortion are summarized, the cause of accounting information distortion is raised, and the solutions which will avoid accounting information distortion is put forward effectively.
Transmission Line Component Inspection Method Based on Deep Learning under Visual Navigation
Authors: Yue Liu , Yuechen Yang , Xiaobin Sun , Jianxiang Li , Huadong Zhang
Published: November 2019

The efficiency of the operation and maintenance for transmission lines can be greatly enhanced with the help of UAV. However, the images of the transmission line component collected by UAV could be spoiled due to the incorrect operations of the controllers, which causes the defects of the transmission line component couldn’t be diagnosed accurately. A visual inspection algorithm for the UAV based on the sensing of the tower components is proposed which uses a parallel network structure and can be applied on embedded devices, which based on Faster R-CNN target recognition framework and the ZFNet. Thus, the classification and posture of the component can be acquired. The UAV’s pose and position can be adjusted by the distance sensing model and components’ posture. Results show that the maximum mAP (mean Average Precision) of component recognition and posture perception are 0.95 and 0.91, respectively. Additionally, the posture of the UAV can be adjusted effectively and optimum images of the component can be obtained.
Simulation research on mooring stability of oil tankers in Changxing Island Port Area considering open environmental conditions
Authors: Huang Jian , Bing Xiao , Shao Ruoli , Liu Yu , Li Xiangda
Published: November 2019

The contribution of this paper is to study the mooring stability of oil tankers by OPTIMOOR software considering the open environmental conditions in Changxing Island Port Area. Firstly, influence factors on mooring stability is analyzed, which are considered as the inputs in the numerical models. Then, the experimental cases under the combinations of waves, water level, tidal current, and wind are developed. Next, the standard of mooring stability used in this paper is given after comprehensively considering the standards used in Norwegian, German, Japan and British. Finally, by feeding the environmental conditions in Changxing Island Port Area, all the numerical experimental tests are conducted and six motion components of moored ships are obtained. The results show that (1) The water level has little effect on six motion components. (2) Compared with oblique sea and following sea, beam sea has the greatest impact on the mooring stability of oil tankers.
Desalination for drinking water demonstration project: a case study at Sichang Island, Thailand
Authors: Sompop R , Takehiro I , Petchporn C , Fijita T , Nakajima K
Published: November 2019

“Desalion”, a compact and movable SANSO ELECTRIC Company desalination machine was implemented for 617 days and tested at Sichang Marine Science Research Station (Aquatic Resources Research Institute, Chulalongkorn University), Sichang Island, Cholburi Province, Thailand. The utilization ratio of actual working days and effective working days was 76%. 483 tons of pure fresh water was produced for the utilization of 333 people. Fresh pure water and brine water were of WHO standards (2011) and Thailand’s drinking water quality standard (maximum allowable concentration). Brine water outlet and seawater inlet salinity experienced a 23.9% changed but suitable for coral and abalone cultured. Apart from its aquatic culturing use, the water from “Desalion” can also be used for agriculture and human consumption considering its 1000 liters per day production capability. This research also founded that “Desalion”, with more sample size, can prove to be a greatly useful tool in water production for areas or islands where fresh water access is scarce.
Systematic study of renewable energy–resource potential in Pakistan
Authors: Rauf Qasim , Li Yanpin , Ashraf Anam
Published: November 2019

Earth does not have an equal distribution of energy sources. Electricity performs a major contribution in the socio-economic improvement and national development of nation. Energy is essential for all financial exercises. In 2008 the government of Pakistan paid almost 9 billion USD to fulfill the energy demand by importing the crude oil. After this Pakistan’s national economy effected badly. Now Pakistan is facing and going through its most bad period of energy crisis. The sustainability of the energy sector is directly proportional to the economic sustainability of the country. The important task of this paper is to highlight the perspective of renewable energy in Pakistan. This paper contains the current situation and future plans of renewable resources like Solar, Wind, Hydel, Biogas, Geothermal energy. The total current capacity of operational projects is solar 100 MW, Wind 308 MW, Biogas 145 MW, 98 MW micro hydel. While the many projects are in different stages of the development like solar 856MW, wind 1146 MW, biogas 297 MW and micro hydel 2638 MW. This paper is also presenting the review about the renewable energy resources potential available in the country that is not exploited yet for the steady and reliable energy supply. This paper contains the information regarding the renewable energy which will be helpful for the government as well as for the stake holder of private sector, those who wants to invest in Pakistan for the renewable energy. The renewable energy resources are abundant and have great potentials that shows, Pakistan can minimize the energy gap between demand and supply in the future and overcome the energy crisis. This paper will be helpful for the government as well as the stake holders of national and international level.
Isolation and genomics DNA amplification of Kapur (Dryobalanops sumatrensis) from North Sumatra
Authors: Susilowati A , Rachmat H H , Rangkuti A B , Elfiati D , Ginting I M
Published: November 2019

Kamper is one of high value tree species from North Sumatra. Its timber has high economic value and has been targeted for exploitation since decades. Identification of species diversity and further their origin and the evolutionary process is important in the conservation strategy of the targeted species. The aims of this research were to get the information about optimal isolation of DNA genomics procedure and primer amplification for Kamper species by applying various primer tested, those were: ITS 2, matK Kim 1, trnH-psbA, trnL-trnF (c and d), trnL-trnF (c and f) and rbcL. The DNA extraction was conducted by CTAB method with some mild modifications to a few stages. The result showed that the modified CTAB method could yield good quality DNA. rbcL with the primer volume as much F: 1µl and R: 1 µl produces the best–amplified band.
Thermal stability of isocyanate as particleboard’s adhesive investigated by TGA (Thermogravimetric Analysis)
Authors: Nuryawan A , Alamsyah E M
Published: November 2019

The objective of this study was to evaluate the thermal stability of isocyanate as particleboard adhesives by means of TGA (thermogravimetric analysis). In this study, thermal properties particularly thermal stability of isocyanate-water/wood system was studied up to a temperature of 500 ºC using thermal analyzer (Mettler Toledo). When isocyanate was used as the binder in particleboard system; the reactive –NCO group reacted with water (because wood is a hygroscopic material and contains free and bound water) and also with the –OH group from wood. The isocyanate was H3M purchased from PT. Polichemie Asia Pacific and the wood particle was Eucalyptus sp. taken from PT. Toba Pulp Lestari. About 10 mg of the mixture either isocyanate with water or wood in various weight ratios were scanned at two different heating rates (slow and fast; 2.5 and 20 °C/min, respectively) with a temperature range from 25 to 500 °C. Results of this study indicate there were more resistant segments to heat in the mixture of isocyanate and water shown from the residual weights about 61-71% compared to in the mixture of isocyanate and wood particle (only 54-62%). Furthermore, there were fewer steps to degrade in the mixture of isocyanate and water shown from the number of peak temperatures about 1-2 peaks than that in the mixture of isocyanate and wood particle (2-4 peaks). New evidence also emerges that isocyanate reacted with water first shown from the weight loss from the low temperature in the mixture of isocyanate and wood particle.
The effect of phenol formaldehyde impregnation at various concentrations on quality of densified-oil palm trunk
Authors: Hartono R
Published: November 2019

The purpose of this study was to improve the quality of oil palm trunk (OPT) after impregnation with Phenol Formaldehyde (PF) resin at various concentration and compression. The inner part of OPT with an average density of 0.28 g/cm3 was used as samples. The OPT was impregnated with PF (5%, 10%, 15% and 20%) by the vacuum-pressure method, then compressed by close system compression. The physical and mechanical properties including weight gain (WG), recovery set (RS), compression parallel to grain, modulus of rupture (MOR) and elasticity modulus (MOE) were examined. The results show WG after PF impregnation was 5.29-53.81% and RS value was 0.99-27.92%. The physical and mechanical properties have increased with increasing PF concentration. The density value, compression parallel to grain, MOR and MOE were 107.15-217.86%, 39.27-248.31%, 159.71-379.22% and 52.92-171.58%, respectively. The impregnation PF of 20% was the best treatment.
Optical analysis of extractive materials distribution in wood densification
Authors: Sufiandi S , Darmawan T , Dwianto W
Published: November 2019

Lignin considered as one of extractive materials in wood densification process. During preheating and in wood densification process, lignin might flow and distributed in a temperature range of 127 °C to 176 °C, and water in wood pores might increase extractive materials flowability in wood. Crossectional extractive materials distribution was measured and quantify optically. Relationships between temperature and extractive materials distribution were discussed briefly in an aim to improve densification methodology.
Morphological diversity of Agaricomycetes in Kuningan Botanical Garden, West Java, Indonesia
Authors: Lestari A S , Zulfiana D , Ismayati M , Zulfitri A , Krishanti N P R A , Kartika T , Himmi S K , Wikantyoso B , Prianto A H , Yusuf S
Published: November 2019

Fungi are common organisms in natural forests as well as human-made ecosystem such as botanical gardens. Likewise forest, botanical gardens provide lignocellulose substrates and other organic media for fungi to grow and develop especially fungal species which belong to class Agaricomycetes. Regarding those roles, it is necessary to do more research on fungal exploration in Indonesia to provide taxonomy and diversity on fungi which belong to Agaricomycetes. This research is conducted to study Agaricomycetes fungi in Kuningan Botanical Garden based on their macroscopic morphology. The fungal collection was conducted in July 2017. Fungal samples were collected from four sampling areas, then the samples were identified based on morphology such as the character of cap, stalk, gill, veil, and spore print. Based on morphological observation, fungal samples found in botanical garden were grouped in to twelve families, i.e./namely: Polyporaceae, Ganodermataceae, Stereaceae, Sclerodermataceae, Russulaceae, Schizophyllaceae, Auriculariaceae, Amanitaceae, Tricholomataceae, Irpicaceae, Auriculariaceae, and Agaricaceae. The fungal genera that were identified are: Auricularia, Scleroderma, Collybia, Russula, Stereum, Lycoperdon, Schizophyllum, Coprinellus, Limacella, Lentinus and Leucopaxillus.
The liverworts family Plagiochilaceae of Taman Eden 100 Natural Park, North Sumatra Indonesia
Authors: Siregar E S , Pasaribu N
Published: November 2019

Information on the liverworts family Plagiochilaceae in Taman Eden 100 Natural Tourist Park North Sumatra has never been reported. This study aims to invent the spesies of Plagiochilaceae at Taman Eden 100 Natural Park, North Sumatra to complete the liverworts data of Sumatra. Samples were collected by exploring and surveying accessible path within the research site. The observation was done in the laboratory based on morphological characters under the binocular microscope. Identification of the species used some existing literature that contains key identification, description or illustration of Plagiochilaceae. Sixteen species of Plagiochilaceae were found in this area, including three genera: Pedinophyllum (1 species), Plagiochilion (1 species), and Plagiochila (14 species). The most common species found in the study was Plagiochila arbuscula, while the uncommon species found were Plagiochila frondescens, P. sumatrana, and Pedinophyllum sp.
Identification of gene action on rice tolerance to low temperature stress
Authors: Dalimunthe S R , Putri L A P , Chairunnisa T , Hairmansis A
Published: November 2019

The development of low temperature tolerant rice varieties is needed to increase national rice productivity. Crosses and selection are the stages of the activity of developing low temperature tolerant plants. The effectiveness of selection depends very much on the action of the genes that control the selection character. Epistatic gene action will inhibit the progress of selection on self-pollinating crops such as rice. The purpose of this study was to estimate the gene action of the character of rice growth at low temperature stresses, and predict whether the growth character was controlled by the action of additive genes or by the action of epistasis genes. The research was conducted from July 2017-March 2018 at Brastagi Experimental Farm, Karo District, altitude 1340 meters above sea level with average temperature of 19 °C. The genetic material used was 191 F2 plants from the crossing of Situbagendit x Red Sigambiri and each 10 parents. The results showed that the character of plant height, panicle exsertion, age of flowering, and production had a middle value that varied with heritability values from low to high. The action of duplicate epistasis additive genes occurs in the character of generative phase plant height and flowering age while the character of plant height in germination phase, panicle exsertion and production is governed by the action of complementary epistasis genes. The characters observed have a pattern of distribution that is continuous and controlled by many genes.
The important role of coffee agroecosystem for rural development
Authors: Carolina  , Wijayanti F , Veronica V , Biri A L
Published: November 2019

Rural development based on local resources utilization has been promoted as a strategy to achieve people prosperity in Indonesia. Although many studies have found that resource-based strategy is no longer relevant nowadays, for many areas this is still considered an appropriate approach. In order to examine the significance, we conducted a study in Sumba Barat Daya District of East Nusa Tenggara, focussing on coffee as one of the most abundant products in the region. Utilizing a socio-ecological approach, we collected data and information to depict the dynamics of coffee-based activities. A detailed study in Kadi Roma Village of Sumba Barat Daya on coffee ecosystem contribution to local community revealed that despite traditionally managed, coffee plays a significant role socially and economically. As a source of income to almost 17,000 smallholder farmers in Sumba Barat Daya, it can be concluded that coffee can become a gateway to attain successful rural development program. It also provides various opportunities for the community to participate which requires supportive innovation ecosystem to be established systematically by relevant local institutions, including include local government.
Coffee-based appropriate technology implementation for community empowerment: lesson learnt from rural community in Sumba Barat Daya
Authors: Wijayanti F , Carolina  , Karim M A , Sudaryanto A
Published: November 2019

Implementation of appropriate technology is recognized as one of the significant approaches for community empowerment. The principle of localities embedded in defined appropriateness of technology as “people mattered” has always been challenged when it is applied. This paper discussed the findings from an action-research work in the traditional coffee community in Sumba Barat Daya – East Nusa Tenggara. Coffee cultivation, post-harvest handling, processing to ground coffee, are tradition practiced to fulfill their need. The tradition is in the contest when there is a demand from the modern market requiring an increase of quality and productivity. The result of this study showed that to empower community it requires integration of technology appropriateness which is economically profitable and socially acceptable, and to ensure sustainability, maintenance of induced knowledge and practices should be strengthened by local institutional establishment based on social capital.
Study of agroforestry mindi planting pattern (Melia dubia cavanilles) in Selaawi Village, Garut District, West Java Province
Authors: Rambey R , Wijayanto N , Siregar I Z , Onrizal  , Susilowati A
Published: November 2019

Melia dubia Cavanilles (big mindi) is one of the fast-growing species which is potential to be developed in community forests. This species is found to occupy most agroforestry lands in Selaawi village (Garut, West Java). The research was conducted in three stand types, namely: (i) pine stand (as reference), (ii) old mindi stand, (iii) young mindi stand with objectives to identify the pattern of planting of mindi agroforestry in Selaawi Village, to analyze the condition of growing places, and to measure the productivity of each stand. This research was conducted 2011 in Selaawi Village, Talegong Subdistrict, Garut District, West Java Province. There are several tree species dominating the sites, namely Melia dubia Cavanilles. (43.37%), Paraserianthes falcataria (23.20%), Maesopsis eminii (15.35%), Manglieta glauca (9.83%), Eucalyptus spp. (4.68%), Anthocephalus cadamba (1.62%) and other wood species (1.96%).
The physical properties of densified Terentang wood (Campnosperma auriculatum (blume) hook. f) on various boiling and pressing time
Authors: Sribudiani E , Somadona S , Manalu G P
Published: November 2019

The fulfillment of the need for wood at this time can only use wood from industrial park forests and community forests, in which the type of wood is fast-growing wood. One of these fast-growing woods is Terentang wood where this wood belongs to the strong class III to IV. To increase the strength of Terentang wood, in this case, the physical nature of the innovation needs to be done using one of the technologies that havethe potential to improve the quality of wood, which is compaction or wood compression. The results of compaction of Terentang wood process with boiling treatment which has a better value of control are the properties of moisture content and specific gravity, the development and shrinkage of dimensions which arestill low compared to controls. The moisture is influenced by boiling time, pressing time, and interaction both of that. The specific gravity is affected by boiling time, the development of wood is influenced by boiling time and interaction of boiling and pressing time, shrinkage is affected by boiling time.
Study of medicinal plant used by the ethnic community of Karo around Lau Debuk-Debuk Tourism Park, Indonesia
Authors: Affandi O , Batubara R
Published: November 2019

Communities with habitat around the forest have used traditional medicine for quite long to maintain their health and treat various diseases. This research aimed to find out the medicinal plants utilized by the communities around Lau Debuk-debuk Tourism Park and to know the utilization of the medicinal plant species. This research implemented two approaches which consisted of field survey in two selected villages (Semangat Gunung Village and Doulu Village). There were sixty species of medicinal plants commonly used by people around Lau Debuk-Debuk Tourism Park. Parts of the plant used as medicines were leaves, root, flowers, plant bark, stem, and tubers. It was found that leaves are most widely used by people of both villages. The current research enlarges the knowledge of the application of endemic plants growing in the investigated area.
The flexural properties of medium density fibreboard overlaid with veneer from three species of wood
Authors: Cahyono T D , Massijaya M Y , Iswanto A H , Yanti H , Anisah L N
Published: November 2019

Aesthetic and strength are not easy to be combined in one wood composite product. This research aimed at combining both utilizing MDF overlaid with avocado, mahogany and pine veneer. Seven types of MDF composite plywood (comply) were designed using two adhesive types of Epoxy and Isocyanat. The adhesive spread weight was 250 g m-2. Cold compression was conducted within 3 hours with the pressure of 15 kg cm-2. The research results showed that flexural modulus (MOE) and flexural strength (MOR) of PMI comply (pine veneer, isocyanat adhesive) increased respectively by 129.5% and 75.9% when compared to MDF. This research recommends that MDF comply may be utilized for the structural and non-structural purposes.
The heavy metal of cuprum (Cu) and lead(Pb) content in Avicennia marina and Rhizophora mucranata
Authors: Yunasfi  , Desrita  , Singh K P
Published: November 2019

Various types of mangrove plants found in coastal areas have a specific strategy to deal with pollution conditions from heavy metals. One of the several strategies used by mangroves is by accumulating various kinds of heavy metals in various parts of the tree. Most species of mangroves such as Avicennia marina, Rhizophora mucronata, Sonneratia caseolaris, Bruguiera gymnorhyza and others apply this strategy. Avicennia marina and Rhizophora mucronata are pioneer mangrove species that are able to accumulate heavy metals in the roots, stems and leaves. These species are also act as indicator of the sustainability of mangrove ecosystems. The presence of heavy metals will reduce water quality subsequently will decline the overall condition of the ecosystem. How big is the ability of Avicenia marina and Rhizopohora mucronata mangroves to absorb copper (Cu) and Lead (Pb) metals and how the conditions of the aquatic environment surrounding mangroves during heavy metal stress are need to be studied. Analysis of Cu and Pb heavy metals contents were carried out at the Chemistry Laboratory of the USU Medan Pharmacy Faculty. The mangrove species used for the analysis of Cu and Pb heavy metals were A.marina and R. mucronata that grew in Muara Sungai coastal areas from April to August 2018. The results showed heavy metal content of Cu was greater than Pb in wire roots, stems and leaves of A. marina trees. Analysis of roots, leaves and bark of R. mucronata also found greater content of Cu heavy metals than Pb.
Establishing Institution-Specific Normative Data for the BREAST-Q Reconstruction Module: A Prospective Study
Authors: Klifto Kevin M , Aravind Pathik , Major Melissa , Payne Rachael M , Shen Wen , Rosson Gedge D , Cooney Carisa M , Manahan Michele A
Published: November 2019

Background

Breast satisfaction in general female populations is relatively unknown and prior research populations do not reflect our community.

Objectives

We sought to assess breast satisfaction in a cohort of female participants utilizing the BREAST-Q and determine the impact of participant-related factors.

Methods

Females with no history of breast cancer or breast surgery attending gynecology appointments completed preoperative BREAST-Q reconstruction modules and demographic forms in this prospective, single-center, patient-reported outcomes study. We also assessed participant-related factors capable of influencing BREAST-Q scores.

Results

Three hundred females were included. Increasing body mass index had significant associations with lower Satisfaction with Breasts and Psychosocial Well-being scores. Increasing age was associated with significantly lower Sexual Well-being scores. African Americans had significantly higher scores for Satisfaction with Breasts, Psychosocial Well-being, and Sexual Well-being compared with Caucasians. Bra cup sizes A and C were associated with significantly higher Psychosocial Well-being scores than other sizes. Bra cup sizes A, B, and C were associated with significantly higher Sexual Well-being and Physical Well-being: Chest scores than larger sizes. Bra cup sizes B and C were associated with significantly higher Physical Well-being: Abdomen scores than size DD. Bra cup size A was associated with significantly higher Satisfaction with Breasts scores than sizes DD and >DD. Bra cup size C was associated with significantly higher Satisfaction with Breasts scores than larger sizes.

Conclusions

Body mass index, age, race, and bra cup sizes significantly impact BREAST-Q scores in our population. Determining normative BREAST-Q scores in female populations could represent important baselines for breast outcomes research.

Level of Evidence: 2
Cell-Free Fat Extract Increases Dermal Thickness by Enhancing Angiogenesis and Extracellular Matrix Production in Nude Mice
Authors: Xu Yuda , Deng Mingwu , Cai Yizuo , Zheng Hongjie , Wang Xiangsheng , Yu Ziyou , Zhang Wenjie , Li Wei
Published: November 2019

Background

Although adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) and nanofat exert antiaging effects on skin, they contain cellular components that have certain limitations in clinical practice. Cell-free fat extract (Ceffe) is a fraction purified from nanofat through removal of cellular components and lipid remnants that contains various growth factors.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of Ceffe on cultured human dermal fibroblasts in vitro and on the dermis of nude mice in vivo.

Methods

In the in vitro study, human dermal fibroblasts were cultured with Ceffe for 72 hours, followed by flow cytometry measurement of cell proliferation and cell cycle. In the in vivo study, different concentrations of Ceffe were injected into the dorsal skin of nude mice for 4 weeks. The thickness of the dermis; proliferation of cells; density of the capillary; and expressions of type I and III collagen (Col-1 and Col-3), matrix metalloproteinase-1, matrix metalloproteinase-3, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-3 were measured through histologic and Western blot analyses.

Results

Ceffe significantly increased cell proliferation in cultured dermal fibroblasts. In the mouse skin, Ceffe significantly increased the thickness of the dermis, number of proliferating cells, density of the capillary, and expressions of Col-1 and Col-3.

Conclusions

Ceffe increased the dermal thickness of nude mice, possibly by enhancing angiogenesis and extracellular matrix production, and can therefore be used for skin rejuvenation.
Outcomes and Outcome Measures in Breast Reduction Mammaplasty: A Systematic Review
Authors: Waltho Daniel , Gallo Lucas , Gallo Matteo , Murphy Jessica , Copeland Andrea , Mowakket Sadek , Moltaji Syena , Baxter Charmaine , Karpinski Marta , Thoma Achilleas
Published: November 2019

Background

Reduction mammaplasty remains critical to the treatment of breast hypertrophy. No technique has been shown to be superior; however, comparison between studies is difficult due to variation in outcome reporting.

Objectives

The authors sought to identify a comprehensive list of outcomes and outcome measures in reduction mammaplasty.

Methods

A comprehensive computerized search was performed. Included studies were randomized or nonrandomized controlled trials involving at least 100 cases of female breast hypertrophy and patients of all ages who underwent 1 or more defined reduction mammaplasty technique. Outcomes and outcome measures were extracted and tabulated.

Results

A total 106 articles were eligible for inclusion; 57 unique outcomes and 16 outcome measures were identified. Frequency of patient-reported and author-reported outcomes were 44% and 88%, respectively. Postoperative complications were the most frequently reported outcome (82.2%). Quality-of-life outcomes were accounted for in 37.7% of studies. Outcome measures were either condition-specific or generic; frequencies were as low as 1% and as high as 5.6%. Five scales were formally assessed in the breast reduction populations. Clinical measures were defined in 15.1% of studies.

Conclusions

There is marked heterogeneity in reporting of outcomes and outcome measures in the literature. A standardized outcome set is needed to compare outcomes of various reduction mammaplasty techniques.

Level of Evidence: 4
A broad survey of DNA sequence data simulation tools
Authors: Alosaimi Shatha , Bandiang Armand , van Biljon Noelle , Awany Denis , Thami Prisca K , Tchamga Milaine S S , Kiran Anmol , Messaoud Olfa , Hassan Radia Ismaeel Mohammed , Mugo Jacquiline , Ahmed Azza , Bope Christian D , Allali Imane , Mazandu Gaston K , Mulder Nicola J , Chimusa Emile R
Published: November 2019

In silico DNA sequence generation is a powerful technology to evaluate and validate bioinformatics tools, and accordingly more than 35 DNA sequence simulation tools have been developed. With such a diverse array of tools to choose from, an important question is: Which tool should be used for a desired outcome? This question is largely unanswered as documentation for many of these DNA simulation tools is sparse. To address this, we performed a review of DNA sequence simulation tools developed to date and evaluated 20 state-of-art DNA sequence simulation tools on their ability to produce accurate reads based on their implemented sequence error model. We provide a succinct description of each tool and suggest which tool is most appropriate for the given different scenarios. Given the multitude of similar yet non-identical tools, researchers can use this review as a guide to inform their choice of DNA sequence simulation tool. This paves the way towards assessing existing tools in a unified framework, as well as enabling different simulation scenario analysis within the same framework.
Statistical methods for biomarker data pooled from multiple nested case–control studies
Authors: Sloan Abigail , Smith-Warner Stephanie A , Ziegler Regina G , Wang Molin
Published: November 2019

Pooling biomarker data across multiple studies allows for examination of a wider exposure range than generally possible in individual studies, evaluation of population subgroups and disease subtypes with more statistical power, and more precise estimation of biomarker-disease associations. However, circulating biomarker measurements often require calibration to a single reference assay prior to pooling due to assay and laboratory variability across studies. We propose several methods for calibrating and combining biomarker data from nested case–control studies when reference assay data are obtained from a subset of controls in each contributing study. Specifically, we describe a two-stage calibration method and two aggregated calibration methods, named the internalized and full calibration methods, to evaluate the main effect of the biomarker exposure on disease risk and whether that association is modified by a potential covariate. The internalized method uses the reference laboratory measurement in the analysis when available and otherwise uses the estimated value derived from calibration models. The full calibration method uses calibrated biomarker measurements for all subjects, including those with reference laboratory measurements. Under the two-stage method, investigators complete study-specific analyses in the first stage followed by meta-analysis in the second stage. Our results demonstrate that the full calibration method is the preferred aggregated approach to minimize bias in point estimates. We also observe that the two-stage and full calibration methods provide similar effect and variance estimates but that their variance estimates are slightly larger than those from the internalized approach. As an illustrative example, we apply the three methods in a pooling project of nested case–control studies to evaluate (i) the association between circulating vitamin D levels and risk of stroke and (ii) how body mass index modifies the association between circulating vitamin D levels and risk of cardiovascular disease.
Societal Impact as ‘Rituals of Verification’ and The Co-Production of Knowledge
Authors: Crawford Adam
Published: November 2019

Thinking about and operationalizing societal impacts have become defining characteristics of university-based research, especially in the United Kingdom. This paper reflects on this unfolding shift in the conceptualization and practice of research with particular regard to criminology. It traces the development of new regulatory regimes that seek to measure research performance and render impact auditable. It argues that these ‘rituals of verification’ engender instrumental and narrow interpretations of impact that accord less space to research-informed social change as a non-linear and uncertain endeavour. This is juxtaposed with a conception of societal impact rooted in methodologies of co-production. Insights from the UK Research Excellence Framework 2014 and 2021 inform discussions and are contrasted with collaborative research efforts to apply co-production in policing research.
NeoPeptide: an immunoinformatic database of T-cell-defined neoantigens
Authors: Zhou Wei-Jun , Qu Zhi , Song Chao-Yang , Sun Yang , Lai An-Li , Luo Ma-Yao , Ying Yu-Zhe , Meng Hu , Liang Zhao , He Yan-Jie , Li Yu-Hua , Liu Jian
Published: November 2019

Therapeutic vaccines represent a promising immunotherapeutic modality against cancer. Discovery and validation of antigens is the key to develop effective anti-cancer vaccines. Neoantigens, arising from somatic mutations in individual cancers, are considered as ideal cancer vaccine targets because of their immunogenicity and lack of expression in normal tissues. However, only few databases support convenient access to these neoantigens for use in vaccines. To address this gap, we developed a web-accessible database, called NeoPeptide, which contains most of the important characteristics of neoantigens (such as mutation site, subunit sequence, major histocompatibility complex restriction) derived from published literature and other immunological resources. NeoPeptide also provides links to resources for further characterization of the novel features of these neoantigens. NeoPeptide will be regularly updated with newly identified and published neoantigens. Our work will help researchers in identifying neoantigens in different cancers and hasten the search for appropriate cancer vaccine candidates.
Type of Disaster Exposure Affects Functional Limitations of Older People 6 Years Later
Authors: Pruchno Rachel , Wilson-Genderson Maureen , Heid Allison R , Cartwright Francine P
Published: November 2019

Background

Natural disasters, including earthquakes, tsunamis, tornadoes, and hurricanes, are traumatic events that simultaneously affect the lives of many people. Although much is known about the effects that natural disasters have on mental health, little is known about how natural disasters affect physical health. These analyses add to the literature by examining the ways in which four types of disaster exposure (geographic, peri-traumatic stress, personal and property loss, and poststorm hardship) experienced by older people during and after Hurricane Sandy affected functional limitations.

Methods

We analyzed five waves of data from the ORANJ BOWL panel (“Ongoing Research on Aging in New Jersey: Bettering Opportunities for Wellness in Life”) using multilevel mixed-effects models.

Results

We found that although peri-traumatic stress and poststorm hardship each had independent effects on functional limitations, the effects of peri-traumatic stress dominated and were evident 6 years after the hurricane. Geographic exposure and personal/property loss were not associated with functional limitations.

Conclusions

These findings add important information to what is known about older people who experience a natural disaster and suggest opportunities for intervention. Finding that an individual’s emotional response during the disaster plays an important role in the development of functional limitations suggests that reduction of exposure to traumatic stress during a storm (ie, evacuation from a storm area) may be important for older people. Likewise, interventions immediately after a disaster that target older people who experience high levels of peri-traumatic distress may be needed in order to alleviate functional limitations before they develop.
Vaccinations and Immunization Status in Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Multicenter Study From the Pediatric IBD Porto Group of the ESPGHAN
Authors: Martinelli Massimo , Giugliano Francesca Paola , Strisciuglio Caterina , Urbonas Vaidotas , Serban Daniela Elena , Banaszkiewicz Aleksandra , Assa Amit , Hojsak Iva , Lerchova Tereza , Navas-López Víctor Manuel , Romano Claudio , Sladek Małgorzata , Veres Gabor , Aloi Marina , Kucinskiene Ruta , Miele Erasmo
Published: November 2019

Background

Vaccine-preventable diseases and opportunistic infections in pediatric inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are increasingly recognized issues. The aims of this study were to evaluate vaccinations, immunization status, and consequent therapeutic management in children with IBD and to analyze the differences among patients diagnosed before (Group 1) and after June 2012 (Group 2).

Methods

This was a multicenter, retrospective cohort investigation. Between July 2016 and July 2017, 430 children with IBD were enrolled in 13 centers. Diagnosis, therapeutic history, vaccinations, and immunization status screening at diagnosis and at immunosuppressant (IM)/biologic initiation and reasons for incomplete immunization were retrieved.

Results

Vaccination rates at diagnosis were unsatisfactory for measles, mumps, and rubella (89.3%), Haemophilus influenzae (81.9%), meningococcus C (23.5%), chickenpox (18.4%), pneumococcus (18.6%), papillomavirus (5.9%), and rotavirus (1.9%). Complete immunization was recorded in 38/430 (8.8%) children, but specific vaccines were recommended in 79/430 patients (18.6%), without differences between the 2 groups. At IM start, 22% of children were tested for Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) status, with 96.2% of EBV-naïve patients starting azathioprine, without differences between Groups 1 and 2. Screening for latent tuberculosis (TB) before start of biologics was performed in 175/190 (92.1%), with up to 9 different screening strategies and numerous inconsistencies.

Conclusions

We demonstrated a poor immunization status at diagnosis in children with IBD, which was not followed by proper vaccination catch-up. EBV status before IM initiation and latent TB before biologics were not adequately assessed. Thus, the overall impact of the current guidelines seems unsatisfactory.
Effects of vitamin B6 on growth, diarrhea rate, intestinal morphology, function, and inflammatory factors expression in a high-protein diet fed to weaned piglets1
Authors: Li Jun , Yin Lanmei , Wang Lei , Li Jianzhong , Huang Pengfei , Yang Huansheng , Yin Yulong
Published: November 2019

Vitamin B6 (VB6) is an important coenzyme factor which participates in many metabolic reactions, especially amino acid metabolism. There are few reports on how VB6 mediates weaned piglet intestinal health. This study purposed to investigate dietary VB6 effects on growth, diarrhea rates, and intestinal morphology and function in weaned piglets fed a high-crude protein (22% CP) diet. Eighteen 21-d-old weaned [(Yorkshire × Landrace) × Duroc] piglets with body weights of 7.03 ± 0.15 (means ± SEM) kg were randomly assigned into 3 VB6-containing dietary treatments. Vitamin B6 content was: 0, 4, and 7 mg/kg, respectively. The feeding period lasted 14 d. The results showed that no significant difference existed for the growth performance. The 7 mg/kg VB6 group had a tendency to decrease diarrhea rate (P = 0.065). Blood biochemical parameters analysis demonstrated that total protein, cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein significantly increased in the 7 mg/kg VB6 group (P < 0.05). In the jejunum, no significant differences were detected for villus height, villus width, crypt depth, villus height and crypt depth ratios, and positive Ki67 counts and the mRNA expression of inflammatory cytokines. Vitamin B6 significantly increased the mRNA expression of SLC6A19 and SLC6A20 (P < 0.05) and decreased the mRNA expression of SLC36A1 (P < 0.05). In the ileum, VB6 significantly increased villus height and villus width (P < 0.05) while decreased positive Ki67 cell counts for 7 mg/kg VB6 group (P < 0.05). Vitamin B6 had significantly increased the mRNA expression of interleukin-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α,cyclo-oxygen-ase-2, and transforming growth factor-β (P < 0.05). Vitamin B6 also had significantly increased mRNA expression of SLC6A19, SLC7A6, SLC7A7, and SLC36A1 (P < 0.05). These findings suggest that dietary supplementation with VB6 may affect the intestinal morphology and absorption and metabolism of protein in weaned piglets fed a high-protein diet by altering the expression of intestinal inflammatory cytokines and amino acid transporters.