bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hepatitis B Virus Exploits ERGIC-53 in Conjunction with COPII to Exit Cells
Authors: Zeyen Lisa , Döring Tatjana , Prange Reinhild
Published: August 2020

Several decades after its discovery, the hepatitis B virus (HBV) still displays one of the most successful pathogens in human populations worldwide. The identification and characterization of interactions between cellular and pathogenic components are essential for the development of antiviral treatments. Due to its small-sized genome, HBV highly depends on cellular functions to produce and export progeny particles. Deploying biochemical-silencing methods and molecular interaction studies in HBV-expressing liver cells, we herein identified the cellular ERGIC-53, a high-mannose-specific lectin, and distinct components of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) export machinery COPII as crucial factors of viral trafficking and egress. Whereas the COPII subunits Sec24A, Sec23B and Sar1 are needed for both viral and subviral HBV particle exit, ERGIC-53 appears as an exclusive element of viral particle propagation, therefore interacting with the N146-glycan of the HBV envelope in a productive manner. Cell-imaging studies pointed to ER-derived, subcellular compartments where HBV assembly initiates. Moreover, our findings provide evidence that HBV exploits the functions of ERGIC-53 and Sec24A after the envelopment of nucleocapsids at these compartments in conjunction with endosomal sorting complexes required for transport (ESCRT) components. These data reveal novel insights into HBV assembly and trafficking, illustrating therapeutic prospects for intervening with the viral life cycle.
Electrodeposited Biocoatings, Their Properties and Fabrication Technologies: A Review
Authors: Zielinski Andrzej , Bartmanski Michal
Published: August 2020

Coatings deposited under an electric field are applied for the surface modification of biomaterials. This review is aimed to characterize the state-of-art in this area with an emphasis on the advantages and disadvantages of used methods, process determinants, and properties of coatings. Over 170 articles, published mainly during the last ten years, were chosen, and reviewed as the most representative. The most recent developments of metallic, ceramic, polymer, and composite electrodeposited coatings are described focusing on their microstructure and properties. The direct cathodic electrodeposition, pulse cathodic deposition, electrophoretic deposition, plasma electrochemical oxidation in electrolytes rich in phosphates and calcium ions, electro-spark, and electro-discharge methods are characterized. The effects of electrolyte composition, potential and current, pH, and temperature are discussed. The review demonstrates that the most popular are direct and pulse cathodic electrodeposition and electrophoretic deposition. The research is mainly aimed to introduce new coatings rather than to investigate the effects of process parameters on the properties of deposits. So far tests aim to enhance bioactivity, mechanical strength and adhesion, antibacterial efficiency, and to a lesser extent the corrosion resistance.
Encapsulation of Grapefruit Essential Oil in Emulsion-Based Edible Film Prepared by Plum (Pruni Domesticae Semen) Seed Protein Isolate and Gum Acacia Conjugates
Authors: Li Chen , Pei Jiliu , Xiong Xiaohui , Xue Feng
Published: August 2020

A dry-heated Maillard reaction was used to prepare plum seed protein isolate and gum acacia conjugates. Emulsion-based edible films (EBEF) were prepared by the encapsulation of grapefruit essential oil using conjugates solution as the continuous phase. The conjugates formed from 3 days of dry heating showed a significant improvement in emulsifying properties due to the unfolding of protein, as confirmed by structure analysis. The droplet size, electrical charge, and viscosity of emulsions increased with the increasing essential oil concentration, and all emulsions exhibited ‘gel’-like behavior. The water vapor barrier property, surface hydrophobicity, mechanical properties, and thermal stability of the films were improved as the essential oil content increased in the range of 1–4% due to enhancement in intermolecular interaction and compatibility, as well as a denser microstructure. Furthermore, all films exhibited an inhibitory effect against E. coli, while their radical scavenging activity depended on the release rate from films. The results obtained in this work confirmed that EBEF could be used as a novel food active packaging in the near future.
Effect of MF-Coated Epoxy Resin Microcapsules on Properties of Waterborne Wood Coating on Basswood
Authors: Yan Xiaoxing , Chang Yijuan
Published: August 2020

In this paper, melamine–formaldehyde (MF) was used as the wall material, and epoxy resin was used as the core material to prepare microcapsules. The optical properties, mechanical properties and ageing resistance of waterborne topcoat were investigated by adding different mass fractions of microcapsules into the waterborne topcoat. Through scanning electron microscopy and infrared spectroscopy analysis, the prepared microcapsules of core-wall ratio of 0.50 were more uniform. It was found that when the mass fraction of microcapsules is less than 10.0% and the core–wall ratio is 0.50, the original color difference of the coating can be maintained. With the increase in microcapsule mass fraction, the gloss of the topcoat film gradually decreases. The mass fraction of the microcapsule of 4.0% with the core–wall ratio of 0.50 can maintain the original gloss of 30.0 GU. The topcoat film with the MF-coated epoxy resin microcapsules of the core–wall ratio of 0.50 has high impact resistance, adhesion and hardness. The results showed that the gloss loss and color difference of the coating with the MF-coated epoxy microcapsules were the lowest when the mass fraction of microcapsules was 4.0%, indicating that microcapsules can improve the stability of coating. These results lay a technical foundation for the development and application of high-performance wood coatings.
Privacy-Preserving Passive DNS
Authors: Papadopoulos Pavlos , Pitropakis Nikolaos , Buchanan William J. , Lo Owen , Katsikas Sokratis
Published: August 2020

The Domain Name System (DNS) was created to resolve the IP addresses of web servers to easily remembered names. When it was initially created, security was not a major concern; nowadays, this lack of inherent security and trust has exposed the global DNS infrastructure to malicious actors. The passive DNS data collection process creates a database containing various DNS data elements, some of which are personal and need to be protected to preserve the privacy of the end users. To this end, we propose the use of distributed ledger technology. We use Hyperledger Fabric to create a permissioned blockchain, which only authorized entities can access. The proposed solution supports queries for storing and retrieving data from the blockchain ledger, allowing the use of the passive DNS database for further analysis, e.g., for the identification of malicious domain names. Additionally, it effectively protects the DNS personal data from unauthorized entities, including the administrators that can act as potential malicious insiders, and allows only the data owners to perform queries over these data. We evaluated our proposed solution by creating a proof-of-concept experimental setup that passively collects DNS data from a network and then uses the distributed ledger technology to store the data in an immutable ledger, thus providing a full historical overview of all the records.
Enhanced Performance of Concrete Composites Comprising Waste Metalised Polypropylene Fibres Exposed to Aggressive Environments
Authors: Alyousef Rayed , Mohammadhosseini Hossein , Alrshoudi Fahed , Md. Tahir Mahmood , Alabduljabbar Hisham , Mohamed Abdeliazim Mustafa
Published: August 2020

The utilisation of waste plastic and polymeric-based materials remains a significant option for clean production, waste minimisation, preserving the depletion of natural resources and decreasing the emission of greenhouse gases, thereby contributing to a green environment. This study aims to investigate the resistance of concrete composites reinforced with waste metalised plastic (WMP) fibres to sulphate and acid attacks. The main test variables include visual inspection, mass loss, and residual strength, as well as the microstructural analysis of specimens exposed to aggressive environments. Two sets of concrete mixes with 100% ordinary Portland cement (OPC) and those with 20% palm oil fuel ash (POFA) were made and reinforced with WMP fibres at volume fractions of 0–1.25%. The results revealed that the addition of WMP fibres decreased the workability and water-cured compressive strength of concrete mixes. The outcomes of the study suggest that the rate of sulphate and acid attacks, in terms of mass losses, was controlled significantly by adding WMP fibres and POFA. The mutual effect of WMP fibre and POFA was detected in the improvement in the concrete’s resistance to sulphate and acid attacks by the reduction in crack formation, spalling, and strength losses. Microstructural analysis conducted on the test specimens elucidates the potential use of POFA in improving the performance of concrete in aggressive environments.
Spontaneous Growth of CaBi4Ti4O15 Piezoelectric Crystal Using Mixed Flux Agents
Authors: Fan Mengdi , Wu Guangda , Yu Fapeng , Li Lili , Li Yanlu , Cheng Xiufeng , Zhao Xian
Published: August 2020

The bismuth layer-structured ferroelectrics (BLSFs) materials have potential for high-temperature piezoelectric applications. Among these piezoelectric materials, the CaBi4Ti4O15 (CBT) piezoelectric ceramic with a high decomposition temperature of about 1250 °C attracts a lot of attention. Achieving a CBT single crystal is a significant way to improve its piezoelectric properties. For this purpose, the flux system for growing CBT crystal was explored in this study. The optimum flux composition ratio was found to be PbO:B2O3:CBT = 3:3:1 in mol%, where the PbO–B2O3 mixtures were used as a flux system. Millimeter size flake-shaped CBT crystals were obtained using the spontaneous growth process for the first time. The relationship between the crystal structure and flake growth habit was analyzed. In addition, the bandgap was evaluated by the combination of transmittance spectrum and first-principle calculations. Besides, the piezoelectric property was predicted from the perspective of polyhedral distortion, which indicated the potential of CBT crystal for piezoelectric applications.
Crystallographic Texture Analysis of As-Built and Heat-Treated Ti6Al4V (ELI) Produced by Direct Metal Laser Sintering
Authors: Muiruri Amos , Maringa Maina , du Preez Willie
Published: August 2020

This paper reports on an investigation of crystallographic texture of as-built and heat-treated Ti6Al4V (ELI) produced by direct metal laser sintering (DMLS). The texture analyses were conducted using electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD). The β-phase texture from the obtained EBSD data was ascertained based on a reconstruction method using the Automatic Reconstruction of Parent Grain for EBSD data (ARPGE) program. A significant improvement of the maximum intensity of the texture from the pole figure was also noted upon heat treatment. The as-built samples and samples heat-treated just below the α→β transformation temperature showed a stronger fibrous texture of the reconstructed β-grains with the ⟨100⟩ directions almost parallel to the build direction. The alignment of the fibrous texture in the build direction disappeared after heat treatment above the α→β-grain transformation temperature.
Benefits and Risks of IgG Transplacental Transfer
Authors: Ciobanu Anca Marina , Dumitru Andreea Elena , Gica Nicolae , Botezatu Radu , Peltecu Gheorghe , Panaitescu Anca Maria
Published: August 2020

Maternal passage of immunoglobulin G (IgG) is an important passive mechanism for protecting the infant while the neonatal immune system is still immature and ineffective. IgG is the only antibody class capable of crossing the histological layers of the placenta by attaching to the neonatal Fc receptor expressed at the level of syncytiotrophoblasts, and it offers protection against neonatal infectious pathogens. In pregnant women with autoimmune or alloimmune disorders, or in those requiring certain types of biological therapy, transplacental passage of abnormal antibodies may cause fetal or neonatal harm. In this review, we will discuss the physiological mechanisms and benefits of transplacental transfer of maternal antibodies as well as pathological maternal situations where this system is hijacked, potentially leading to adverse neonatal outcomes.
Dynamic Voltage Restorer (DVR): A Comprehensive Review of Topologies, Power Converters, Control Methods, and Modified Configurations
Authors: Moghassemi Ali , Padmanaban Sanjeevikumar
Published: August 2020

Power quality is a pressing concern and of the utmost importance for advanced and high-tech equipment in particular, whose performance relies heavily on the supply’s quality. Power quality issues like voltage sags/swells, harmonics, interruptions, etc. are defined as any deviations in current, voltage, or frequency that result in end-use equipment damage or failure. Sensitive loads like medical equipment in hospitals and health clinics, schools, prisons, etc. malfunction for the outages and interruptions, thereby causing substantial economic losses. For enhancing power quality, custom power devices (CPDs) are recommended, among which the Dynamic Voltage Restorer (DVR) is considered as the best and cost-effective solution. DVR is a power electronic-based solution to mitigate and compensate voltage sags. This paper provides a thorough discussion and comprehensive review of DVR topologies based on operations, power converters, control methods, and applications. The review compares the state-of-the-art in works of literature, and comparative study on power quality issues, the DVR principle along with its operation modes, the DVR components, the DVR topologies based on energy storage, the DVR topologies based on single-/three-phase power converters, and the DVR topologies based on control units that have different control processing stages. Furthermore, modified and improved configurations of the DVR, as well as its integration with distributed generations, are described. This work serves as a comprehensive and useful reference for those who have an interest in researching DVRs.
How Smart Metering and Smart Charging may Help a Local Energy Community in Collective Self-Consumption in Presence of Electric Vehicles
Authors: Barone Giuseppe , Brusco Giovanni , Menniti Daniele , Pinnarelli Anna , Polizzi Gaetano , Sorrentino Nicola , Vizza Pasquale , Burgio Alessandro
Published: August 2020

The 2018/2001/EU renewable energy directive (RED II) underlined the strategic role of energy communities in the EU transition process towards sustainable and renewable energy. In line with the path traced by RED II, this paper proposes a solution that may help local energy communities in increasing self-consumption. The proposed solution is based on the combination of smart metering and smart charging. A set of smart meters returns the profile of each member of the community with a time resolution of 5 s; the aggregator calculates the community profile and regulates the charging of electric vehicles accordingly. An experimental test is performed on a local community composed of four users, where the first is a consumer with a Nissan Leaf, whereas the remaining three users are prosumers with a photovoltaic generator mounted on the roof of their home. The results of the experimental test show the feasibility of the proposed solution and demonstrate its effectiveness in increasing self-consumption. The paper also calculates the subsidy that the community under investigation would receive if the current Italian incentive policies for renewables were extended to local energy communities; this subsidy is discussed in comparison with the subsidies that the three prosumers individually receive thanks to the net metering mechanism. This paper ends with an economic analysis and calculation of savings on bills when the four users create the local energy community and adopt the proposed combination of smart metering and smart charging.
Indirect Vector-Controlled Brushless Doubly-Fed Twin-Stator Induction Generator for Wind Energy Conversion Application
Authors: Abdelkader Mona I. , Abdelsalam Ahmed K. , Hossameldin Ahmed A.
Published: August 2020

Wind energy conversion systems (WECSs) seem certain to play a major part in the world’s energy future due to their known high power capacity. The maximum power tracking is unavoidable due to the wind velocity variation and the non-linear relation with the turbine mechanical power. Commercial wind turbines are commonly coupled to either doubly-fed induction generators (DFIGs), wound rotor synchronous generators (WRSG) or permanent magnet synchronous generators (PMSGs). The DFIG-based WECS has several advantages over others. One of which is the power converter in such systems only deals with rotor power, hence the converter rating can run at reduced power rating. However, DFIG has the famous disadvantage of the presence of slip rings which leads to increased maintenance costs and outage times. Hence, brushless doublyfed induction machines (BDFIMs) can be considered as a viable alternative at the penalty of complicated controller requirement and limited decoupling control capability due to the machine’s non-linearity. In this paper, an enhanced performance indirect vector controller is proposed for WECS based on brushless doubly-fed twin-stator induction generator (BDFTSIG). The presented controller offers (i) simplified implementation, (ii) decoupled active-reactive power control, and (iii) a wide range of operation. The proposed controller performance is investigated under various loading conditions showing enhanced transient and minimal steady-state oscillations in addition to complete active/reactive power decoupling. The rigorous simulation and experimental results verify the claimed controller effectiveness under all possible operating conditions for sub- and super-synchronous speed range.
Verifying the Utility of Black Locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.) in the Reclamation of a Lignite Combustion Waste Disposal Site in Central European Conditions
Authors: Woś Bartłomiej , Pająk Marek , Krzaklewski Wojciech , Pietrzykowski Marcin
Published: August 2020

N-fixing tree species, such as black locust, have achieved very promising results in the reclamation of technosols, especially those at combustion waste disposal sites, which have extremely poor nutrients and adverse physicochemical parameters. This paper presents an assessment of the survival rates, growth parameters, and quality and vitality of and nutrient supply (NPK) to black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.) specimens that were experimentally planted on a lignite combustion waste disposal site. The black locust seedlings were introduced directly into the combustion waste using two variants of NPK (7% N, 5.5% P2O5, and 9% K2O) fertilisation, at doses of 250 and 500 kg ha−1, and in control plots with no mineral fertilisation. No significant impacts of the applied mineral fertilisation were found on the soil properties, growth parameters, or nutrient supplies to the trees. Black locust introduced to the landfill after three years of revegetation was characterised by a very high survival rate of 95%–100%, as well as good growth parameters (height and diameter at the root collar). Nutrient supply was determined on the basis of the chemical composition of the leaves, which indicated an adequate supply of nitrogen, similar to levels found under natural conditions. In the case of K and P, the supply levels were lower than optimal when compared with data from the literature. However, at this initial stage of tree development on the combustion waste disposal site, nutrient supply is similar on all variants and is not a critical factor for successful black locust introduction. We suggest using growth parameters, survival, and vitality of trees as decisive factors for the reclamation of combustion waste landfill sites strategy. All these factors confirmed the usefulness of black locust to the reclamation of combustion waste disposal sites.
Understanding the Determinants and Future Challenges of Cloud Computing Adoption for High Performance Computing
Authors: Lynn Theo , Fox Grace , Gourinovitch Anna , Rosati Pierangelo
Published: August 2020

High performance computing (HPC) is widely recognized as a key enabling technology for advancing scientific progress, industrial competitiveness, national and regional security, and the quality of human life. Notwithstanding this contribution, the large upfront investment and technical expertise required has limited the adoption of HPC to large organizations, government bodies, and third level institutions. Recent advances in cloud computing and telecommunications have the potential to overcome the historical issues associated with HPC through increased flexibility and efficiency, and reduced capital and operational expenditure. This study seeks to advance the literature on technology adoption and assimilation in the under-examined HPC context through a mixed methods approach. Firstly, the determinants of cloud computing adoption for HPC are examined through a survey of 121 HPC decision makers worldwide. Secondly, a modified Delphi method was conducted with 13 experts to identify and prioritize critical issues in the adoption of cloud computing for HPC. Results from the quantitative phase suggest that only organizational and human factors significantly influence cloud computing adoption decisions for HPC. While security was not identified as a significant influencer in adoption decisions, qualitative research findings suggest that data privacy and security issues are an immediate and long-term concern.
Pleasure or Health? The Role of Mental Simulation in Desire and Food Choices
Authors: Muñoz-Vilches Naomí C. , van Trijp Hans C. M. , Piqueras-Fiszman Betina
Published: August 2020

Many times, desire possesses us and impedes us from making healthier food choices. From a grounded cognition perspective, we investigated the role of two types of mental simulation (process and outcome) in desire and food choice to understand the processes that modulate them and find strategies that encourage healthier food choices. In addition to these explicit measures, we used two implicit methods to measure approach-avoidance tendencies and visual attention. Our results showed that imagining the consumption of vice and virtue foods increased desire for the product imagined and seemed to favor the choice of a vice food. However, at an implicit level, the motivation to approach and avoid food products was neutral. Imagining the post-consumption of a vice food decreased desire for the imagined food and although it tempted people at an implicit level, it made people more prone to choose a virtue food. When a vice food was imagined, attentional bias increased for all types of food regardless of the simulation. When a virtue food was imagined, there was no effect on choice, motivation nor attentional bias. In conclusion, simply imagining certain foods is a potential solution for promoting healthier and thoughtful choices.
Ripening of Nostrano Valtrompia PDO Cheese in Different Storage Conditions: Influence on Chemical, Physical and Sensory Properties
Authors: Bettera Luca , Alinovi Marcello , Mondinelli Roberto , Mucchetti Germano
Published: August 2020

Nostrano Valtrompia is a hard, long-ripened, Italian Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) cheese typically produced by applying traditional cheesemaking practices in small dairies. Due to the limited production, this cheese is characterized by an important market price. Nostrano Valtrompia physico-chemical and sensory quality can be influenced by the duration and conditions of ripening. The objectives of this work were to characterize the physico-chemical and sensory characteristics of Nostrano Valtrompia cheese ripened for 12 and 16 months and to study the influence of different ripening warehouses: a temperature conditioned warehouse (TCW) and in a traditional, not conditioned warehouse (TNCW). The moisture gradient from the rind to the center of the cheese influenced texture, moisture, aw and color. Ripening in different warehouses did not affect the overall appreciation of the cheese nor other physico-chemical (color, moisture) or sensory traits. TCW cheeses were characterized by a slightly softer texture, slightly different openings distribution, and a different sensory perception than TNCW cheeses. These minor differences were related to the less variable environmental ripening conditions of TCW than TNCW. The results of this study can be useful to support the management of the ripening conditions of Nostrano Valtrompia PDO cheese and to rationally introduce new, suitable ripening sites.
Ohmic Heating Extract of Vine Pruning Residue Has Anti-Colorectal Cancer Activity and Increases Sensitivity to the Chemotherapeutic Drug 5-FU
Authors: Jesus Meirielly S. , Carvalho Ana C. , Teixeira José A. , Domingues Lucília , Pereira-Wilson Cristina
Published: August 2020

Vine pruning residues are by-products of the wine industry that have not received much attention in the past, in spite of being rich in bioactive compounds. In this study, we aimed to test whether an ohmic extract of vine pruning residue (VPE) has anti-colorectal cancer (CRC) properties, and whether responses differ according with cell’s mutation profile. VPE decreased human CRC cell proliferation, accompanied by DNA effects and cell cycle modulation. VPE also increased cell sensitivity to the chemotherapeutic drug 5-FU. Our results suggest that tumors harboring BRAF mutations may be more responsive to VPE than KRAS mutated tumors. These effects of the extract were not completely reproduced by the most abundant constituents tested individually at the concentrations present in the effective dose of VPE. Globally, our results indicate that VPE, a polyphenol enriched extract produced by ohmic heating of vine pruning residue, has anti-colorectal cancer potential, including sensitizing to a chemotherapeutical drug, and its use in functional foods or nutraceuticals could be exploited in personalized anti colorectal cancer dietary strategies. Valorization of this lignocellulosic residue should encourage bio-waste recycling, adding value to this agricultural by-product and promoting the sustainable use of natural resources.
The Impact of Consumer Competence in Purchasing Foods on Satisfaction with Food-Related Consumer Policies and Satisfaction with Food-Related Life through Perceptions of Food Safety
Authors: Lee Hyun-Joo
Published: August 2020

Based on the knowledge-deficit model, this study proposes a relationship between consumer competence in purchasing foods and perceptions of the safety of imported and domestic foods. This study also examines how perceptions of the safety of imported and domestic foods affect satisfaction with food-related consumer policy and satisfaction with food-related life. Using data from the “2019 Consumer Behavior Survey for Food,” which has been conducted every year since 2013 by the Korea Rural Economic Institute, we analyzed the responses of a final sample of 5869 respondents. The hypothesized conceptual model was assessed through structural equation modeling. All but one of the proposed relationships between consumer competence in purchasing foods and perceptions of food safety were supported. The relationship between perceptions of food safety and satisfaction with food-related consumer policies depends on whether foods are imported or domestic. Food origin also affected the relationship between perceptions of food safety and satisfaction with food-related life. Satisfaction with food-related consumer policies is significantly connected with satisfaction with food-related life. We discuss how the findings of this study can be applied to the development of food-related consumer policies.
Characterization of Whey-Based Fermented Beverages Supplemented with Hydrolyzed Collagen: Antioxidant Activity and Bioavailability
Authors: León-López Arely , Pérez-Marroquín Xóchitl Alejandra , Campos-Lozada Gieraldin , Campos-Montiel Rafael G. , Aguirre-Álvarez Gabriel
Published: August 2020

In this study, the preparation of a milk whey-based beverage with the addition of different concentrations of hydrolyzed collagen (0.3%, 0.5%, 0.75%, and 1%) was carried out. The control was considered at a concentration of 0%. Physicochemical properties, viscosity, antioxidant activity, and microbiological parameters were evaluated. The 1% collagen treatment showed the highest protein content (9.75 ± 0.20 g/L), as well as radical inhibition for ATBS (48.30%) and DPPH (30.06%). There were no significant differences (p ≥ 0.05) in the fat and lactose parameters. However, the pH in the control treatment was lower compared to beverages treated with hydrolyzed collagen. Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy showed spectra characteristic of lactose and collagen amides. The viscosity increased significantly as the concentration of hydrolyzed collagen increased. The addition of hydrolyzed collagen increased the bioavailability, nutritional value, and the antioxidant activity of the beverage. Hydrolyzed collagen acted as an antimicrobial agent, as there was no presence of microorganism pathogens observed in the treated beverages.
Exploring the Typicality, Sensory Space, and Chemical Composition of Swedish Solaris Wines
Authors: Garrido-Bañuelos Gonzalo , Ballester Jordi , Buica Astrid , Mihnea Mihaela
Published: August 2020

The Swedish wine industry has exponentially grown in the last decade. However, Swedish wines remain largely unknown internationally. In this study, the typicality and sensory space of a set of twelve wines, including five Swedish Solaris wines, was evaluated blind by Swedish wine experts. The aim of the work was to evaluate whether the Swedish wine experts have a common concept of what a typical Solaris wines should smell and taste like or not and, also, to bring out more information about the sensory space and chemical composition of Solaris wines. The results showed a lack of agreement among the wine experts regarding the typicality of Solaris wines. This, together with the results from the sensory evaluation, could suggest the possibility of different wine styles for Solaris wines. From a chemical perspective, the global volatile profile showed a larger variability between individual wines than between Solaris and non-Solaris. However, 4MMP, ethyl propionate, ethyl 2-Methyl propanoate, and diethyl succinate were significantly higher in Solaris wines. Concerning non-volatile compounds, the results showed a significant discrimination between Solaris and non-Solaris wines, the former being characterized by higher ethanol %, Mg, succinic acid, tartaric acid, and sucrose levels.
Molecular Analysis of 55 Spanish Patients with Acute Intermittent Porphyria
Authors: Morán-Jiménez María-José , Borrero-Corte María-José , Jara-Rubio Fátima , García-Pastor Inmaculada , Díaz-Díaz Silvia , Castelbón-Fernandez Francisco-Javier , Enríquez-de-Salamanca Rafael , Méndez Manuel
Published: August 2020

Acute intermittent porphyria (AIP) results from a decreased activity of hepatic hydroxymethylbilane synthase (HMBS), the third enzyme in the heme biosynthetic pathway. AIP is an autosomal dominant disorder with incomplete penetrance, characterized by acute neurovisceral attacks precipitated by several factors that induce the hepatic 5-aminolevulinic acid synthase, the first enzyme in the heme biosynthesis. Thus, a deficiency in HMBS activity results in an overproduction of porphyrin precursors and the clinical manifestation of the disease. Early diagnosis and counselling are essential to prevent attacks, and mutation analysis is the most accurate method to identify asymptomatic carriers in AIP families. In the present study, we have investigated the molecular defects in 55 unrelated Spanish patients with AIP, identifying 32 HMBS gene mutations, of which six were novel and ten were found in more than one patient. The novel mutations included a missense, an insertion, two deletions, and two splice site variants. Prokaryotic expression studies demonstrated the detrimental effect for the missense mutation, whereas reverse transcription-PCR and sequencing showed aberrant splicing caused by each splice site mutation. These results will allow for an accurate diagnosis of carriers of the disease in these families. Furthermore, they increase the knowledge about the molecular heterogeneity of AIP in Spain.
Genome-Wide Analysis of the Role of NAC Family in Flower Development and Abiotic Stress Responses in Cleistogenes songorica
Authors: Zong Xifang , Yan Qi , Wu Fan , Ma Qian , Zhang Jiyu
Published: August 2020

Plant-specific NAC (NAM, ATAF, CUC) transcription factor (TF) family plays important roles in biological processes such as plant growth and response to stress. Nevertheless, no information is known about NAC TFs in Cleistogenes songorica, a prominent xerophyte desert grass in northwestern China. In this study, 162 NAC genes were found from the Cleistogenes songorica genome, among which 156 C. songoricaNAC (CsNAC) genes (96.3%) were mapped onto 20 chromosomes. The phylogenetic tree constructed by CsNAC and rice NAC TFs can be separated into 14 subfamilies. Syntenic and Ka/Ks analyses showed that CsNACs were primarily expanded by genomewide replication events, and purifying selection was the primary force driving the evolution of CsNAC family genes. The CsNAC gene expression profiles showed that 36 CsNAC genes showed differential expression between cleistogamous (CL) and chasmogamous (CH) flowers. One hundred and two CsNAC genes showed differential expression under heat, cold, drought, salt and ABA treatment. Twenty-three CsNAC genes were commonly differentially expressed both under stress responses and during dimorphic floret development. Gene Ontology (GO) annotation, coexpression network and qRT-PCR tests revealed that these CsNAC genes may simultaneously regulate dimorphic floret development and the response to stress. Our results may help to characterize the NAC transcription factors in C. songorica and provide new insights into the functional research and application of the NAC family in crop improvement, especially in dimorphic floret plants.
Personality, Health Care Use, and Costs: A Study Protocol for a Systematic Review
Authors: Hajek André , Kretzler Benedikt , König Hans-Helmut
Published: August 2020

Recent empirical studies have shown that personality factors are associated with health care use (HCU). However, to date, a systematic review is lacking summarizing evidence regarding the link between personality factors and health care use or costs (i.e., monetarily valued health care use). Therefore, the objective of this systematic review is to provide an overview of evidence from observational studies investigating the link between personality characteristics and health care use or costs. Electronic databases (PubMed, PsycINFO, NHS EED) will be searched using predefined search terms. In an additional step, the reference lists of included studies will be searched (manually). No restrictions will be applied regarding the time of publication. Observational studies (both cross-sectional and longitudinal) assessing the link between personality characteristics and health care use/costs across all age categories will be included. Only studies using validated tools to quantify personality characteristics will be included. Among others, studies only focusing on mental HCU or studies only analyzing samples with a specific disorder (e.g., individuals with personality disorders) will be excluded. Mainly, data on methods (study design, measures, and statistical analysis), sample characteristics, and results regarding the link between personality and HCU/costs will be extracted. A quality assessment will be conducted. Two reviewers will perform the study selection, data extraction, and assessment of the study quality. If disagreements occur, they will be resolved through discussion to reach a consensus or by inclusion of a third party. Results will be presented narratively (text and tables). Depending on the number and heterogeneity of the studies included, a meta-analysis will be conducted. Results will be disseminated through publication in a peer-reviewed, scientific journal.
Enhancing Research and Development in the Health Sciences as a Strategy to Establish a Knowledge-Based Economy in the State of Kuwait: A Call for Action
Authors: Salman Ahmad , Fakhraldeen Saja A. , Chun Sungsoo , Jamil Kazi , Gasana Janvier , Al-Hunayan Adel
Published: August 2020

Kuwait Vision 2035 is an initiative that was launched in 2017 by His Highness the Emir of the State of Kuwait Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. This initiative includes the implementation of a detailed development plan aimed at transforming the state of Kuwait into a regional leader in science, technology, and innovation. Health research will arguably prove to be one of the most impactful research arenas when it comes to accomplishing the goals set forth by the Kuwait Vision 2035 Development Plan. The high impact of health research is derived from its capacity to aid in the establishment of a knowledge-based health industry. The state of Kuwait lacks a system for promoting and managing national R&D efforts. At present, the research and development (R&D) expenditure in the state of Kuwait is far below the international standards that have been shown to lead to innovation and the subsequent development of a knowledge-based economy. Improvement of the weak and unstructured existing R&D apparatus in the State of Kuwait is among the most urgent challenges facing the nation as it strives toward innovation and development of a knowledge-based economy. Developing health research capacities in the State of Kuwait can significantly contribute toward improving public health, health promotion, disease prevention and treatment, and overall human welfare. Importantly, the positive impacts of such extensive benefits will not be restricted to the state of Kuwait and its citizens, but may in fact reap benefits for the global society as a whole. This article first analyzes the current status of healthcare services and health science research in the State of Kuwait, and then summarizes some essential R&D design principles that Kuwait needs to implement in order to achieve the milestones set forth in the Kuwait Vision 2035 Development Plan.
Centralized Ambulance Diversion Policy Using Rolling-Horizon Optimization Framework to Minimize Patient Tardiness
Authors: Baek Sohye , Lee Young Hoon , Park Seong Hyeon
Published: August 2020

Ambulance diversion (AD) is a common method for reducing crowdedness of emergency departments by diverting ambulance-transported patients to a neighboring hospital. In a multi-hospital system, the AD of one hospital increases the neighboring hospital’s congestion. This should be carefully considered for minimizing patients’ tardiness in the entire multi-hospital system. Therefore, this paper proposes a centralized AD policy based on a rolling-horizon optimization framework. It is an iterative methodology for coping with uncertainty, which first solves the centralized optimization model formulated as a mixed-integer linear programming model at each discretized time, and then moves forward for the time interval reflecting the realized uncertainty. Furthermore, the decentralized optimization, decentralized priority, and No-AD models are presented for practical application, which can also show the impact of using the following three factors: centralization, mathematical model, and AD strategy. The numerical experiments conducted based on the historical data of Seoul, South Korea, for 2017, show that the centralized AD policy outperforms the other three policies by 30%, 37%, and 44%, respectively, and that all three factors contribute to reducing patients’ tardiness. The proposed policy yields an efficient centralized AD management strategy, which can improve the local healthcare system with active coordination between hospitals.
The Role of Perceived Unjust Treatment in Unmet Needs for Primary Care Among Finnish Roma Adults
Authors: Lämsä Riikka , Castaneda Anu E. , Weiste Anneli , Laalo Marianne , Koponen Päivikki , Kuusio Hannamaria
Published: August 2020

The main goal in developing services is to guarantee equal access to healthcare services that are suited to the patients’ needs. Previous studies have shown that the Roma are more likely to experience unjust treatment in health services than the general population. This study examines the association between perceived unjust treatment in healthcare and self-assessed unmet need for primary care provided by general practitioners (GPs) and nurses among the Finnish Roma. The data from the Finnish Roma Wellbeing Study (Roosa), conducted in 2017–2018, were used. Snowball sampling was used in recruiting study participants (n = 365, 61% women). Logistic regression was used to test the association between perceived unjust treatment and unmet need for primary care. Confounders used were gender, age, marital status, education, employment, and self-rated health. Those who had experienced unjust treatment in healthcare were more likely to report unmet need for care provided by GPs (odds ratios (OR) = 6.44; p < 0.001) and nurses (OR = 11.18; p < 0.001) than those who felt that they had been treated justly. This association remained after adjustments for the confounders. Bidirectional guidance between the Roma and service providers should be improved and the Roma communities involved in service development using participatory methods.
The Regional Differences in Game-Play Styles Considering Playing Position in the FIBA Female Continental Basketball Competitions
Authors: Zhai Zongpeng , Guo Yongbo , Li Yuanchang , Zhang Shaoliang , Liu Hongyou
Published: August 2020

The aim of this study was to identify regional differences based on playing position in terms of the technical performances among FIBA Female Continental Basketball Championships by controlling the influence of situational variables including the game outcome, game type, teams and opponent quality. The samples comprised of 9208 performance records from 471 games in the America, Africa, Asia and Europe Championships during 2013–2017 and were collected and analyzed by generalized mixed linear modeling. Our study highlighted that, although positional differences were clear among different continental championships, it is worth noting that African guards, forwards, and centers made more turnovers (TOV) compared with the corresponding positional players from other continental championships. In addition, European guards presented the lowest number of steals (STL) compared with African (ES = 0.28), Asian (ES = 0.21), and American guards (ES = 0.24). The results provide coaches to have a better understanding of game-play styles among FIBA Female Continental Basketball Competitions, which could optimize the development of female basketball and the selection and recruitment of female players at the international level.
Physiological Response of Quality Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, Crossover Trial on Mannequin in Extreme Temperature Conditions
Authors: Martin-Conty José Luis , Polonio-López Begoña , Maestre-Miquel Clara , Mohedano-Moriano Alicia , Durantez-Fernández Carlos , Mordillo-Mateos Laura , Jurado-Palomo Jesús , Viñuela Antonio , Bernal-Jiménez Juan José , Martin-Rodríguez Francisco
Published: August 2020

Background: To determine the relationship between physiological fatigue and the quality of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in trained resuscitators in hostile thermal environments (extreme cold and heat) simulating the different conditions found in an out-of-hospital cardiorespiratory arrest. Methods: Prospective observational study involving 60 students of the health sciences with training in resuscitation, who simulated CPR on a mannequin for 10 min in different thermal environments: thermo-neutral environment (21 °C and 60% humidity), heat environment (41 °C and 98% humidity) and cold environment (−35 °C and 80% humidity). Physiological parameters (heart rate and lactic acid) and CPR quality were monitored. Results: We detected a significant increase in the number of compressions per minute in the “heat environment” group after three minutes and in the mean rate after one minute. We observed a negative correlation between the total number of compressions and mean rate with respect to mean depth. The fraction of compressions (proportion of time in which chest compressions are carried out) was significant over time and the mean rate was higher in the “heat environment”. Physiological parameters revealed no differences in heart rate depending on the resuscitation scenario; however, there was a greater and faster increase in lactate in the “heat environment” (significant at minute 3). The total proportion of participants reaching metabolic fatigue was also higher in the “heat environment”. Conclusions: A warm climate modifies metabolic parameters, reducing the quality of the CPR maneuver.
Serum Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances Are Associated with Increased Hearing Impairment: A Re-Analysis of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey Data
Authors: Li Ming-Chieh
Published: August 2020

Although studies have shown that per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are potential environmental ototoxicants, epidemiologic study has been limited. I conducted a cross-sectional study to re-examine the associations between PFAS and hearing impairment. Data were obtained from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 1999–2000, 2003-06, 2009-12, and 2015-16. Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS), and perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) were measured in serum samples. Participants were divided into quartiles for each PFAS. Air conduction pure-tone audiometry was administered. Hearing impairment (1: yes, 0: no) was defined as a hearing threshold of more than 25 dB at 500, 1000, 2000, 4000, and 8000 Hz in the worse ear. I assessed the relation of serum PFAS with hearing impairment by the generalized linear mixed model with a logit link and binary distribution. Tests for linear trend across quartiles of serum PFAS were conducted using the median serum PFAS in each quartile as a continuous variable. After adjusting for age, sex, body mass index, education, ethnicity group, and family income, I found positive correlations between PFOA and hearing impairment at 2000 Hz (p-trend < 0.01) and 3000 Hz (p-trend = 0.02); between PFOS and hearing impairment at 500 Hz (p-trend < 0.01), 2000 Hz (p-trend < 0.0001) and 3000 Hz (p-trend = 0.02); between PFNA and hearing impairment at 2000 Hz (p-trend = 0.05), 3000 Hz (p-trend < 0.01), 4000 Hz (p-trend = 0.02), and 8000 Hz (p-trend < 0.01); between PFHxS and hearing impairment at 500 Hz (p-trend = 0.04), 1000 Hz (p-trend = 0.03), and 2000 Hz (p-trend < 0.01). However, some of the findings were not significant when only comparing the highest with the lowest quartile of PFASs. In conclusion, several background serum PFASs are positively correlated with hearing impairment in the United States adult population.