bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
El Residentado Médico o proceso de forma­ción de especialistas en el Perú
Authors: Arce-Rodríguez Melitón
Published: January 2020

El simposio que sobre la materia ofrece el presente número de Diagnóstico,  constituye un importante documento que, además de reseñar el desarrollo histórico que este proceso formativo de profesionales médicos ha tenido, en sus más de 50 años de existencia, nos ilustra sobre los avances logrados y elestado en que actualmente se encuentra, En él, un distinguido grupo de docentes universitarios,teniendo como editor principal al Profesor Oscar Pamo Reyna, Director de la Unidad de Posgrado yEspecialización de la Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, nos presentan una visión de conjunto sobrelos avances alcanzados y de como ellos vienen contribuyendo al mejor cuidado de la salud en el país.
Nuevas tendencias en la docencia del posgrado-especlallzaclón en medicina
Authors: Olascoaga-Mesía Ana Cecilia
Published: January 2020

El residentado médico es un período de intenso aprendizaje en servicio. Las nuevas tendencias en la educación médica involucran también al residentado médico y actualmente estamos presenciando su evolución. Estas nuevas tendencias suponen cambios en la organización de los programas y en el diseño de los programas de especialización basados en competencias, la innovación en estrategias didácticas y en estrategias de evaluación, el cuidado del clima de aprendizaje y la acreditación de programas. Se presenta un resumen de estas tendencias y se describen algunas experiencias nacionales e internacionales.
Tecnologías de la información y comunicación en la educación médica de posgrado
Authors: Orellano-Tuesta Carlos Alberto
Published: January 2020

La educación digital en programas de posgrado de medicina ofrece herramientas que se ajustan a lascaracterísticas del profesional actual quien busca alternativas para seguir adquiriendo conocimientos. El objetivo de este artículo es abordar las condiciones para su efectividad y señalar ciertas aplicaciones reportadas en la literatura internacional. También, se mencionan sus usos en Perú, incluyendo la experiencia en el residentado médico de la Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia.
Yield and Quality in Purple-Grained Wheat Isogenic Lines
Authors: Morgounov Alexey , Karaduman Yaşar , Akin Beyhan , Aydogan Sinan , Baenziger Peter Stephen , Bhatta Madhav , Chudinov Vladimir , Dreisigacker Susanne , Govindan Velu , Güler Safure , Guzman Carlos , Nehe Ajit , Poudel Rachana , Rose Devin , Gordeeva Elena , Shamanin Vladimir , Subasi Kemal , Zelenskiy Yuriy , Khlestkina Elena
Published: January 2020

Breeding programs for purple wheat are underway in many countries but there is a lack of information on the effects of Pp (purple pericarp) genes on agronomic and quality traits in variable environments and along the product chain (grain-flour-bread). This study was based on unique material: two pairs of isogenic lines in a spring wheat cv. Saratovskaya-29 (S29) background differing only in Pp genes and grain color. In 2017, seven experiments were conducted in Kazakhstan, Russia, and Turkey with a focus on genotype and environment interaction and, in 2018, one experiment in Turkey with a focus on grain, flour, and bread quality. The effect of environment was greater compared to genotype for the productivity and quality traits studied. Nevertheless, several important traits, such as grain color and anthocyanin content, are closely controlled by genotype, offering the opportunity for selection. Phenolic content in purple-grained lines was not significantly higher in whole wheat flour than in red-colored lines. However, this trait was significantly higher in bread. For antioxidant activities, no differences between the genotypes were detected in both experiments. Comparison of two sources of Pp genes demonstrated that the lines originating from cv. Purple Feed had substantially improved productivity and quality traits compared to those from cv. Purple.
Effects of Added Dietary Fiber and Rearing System on the Gut Microbial Diversity and Gut Health of Chickens
Authors: Hou Linyue , Sun Baosheng , Yang Yu
Published: January 2020

It is of merit to study the appropriate amount of dietary fiber to add to free-range chickens’ feed to improve their microbial diversity and gut health in times of plant fiber deprivation. Lignocellulose is a useful source of dietary fiber, and its positive effects on the growth performance and laying performance of chickens has already been proven. However, few researchers have researched the effects of adding it on the gut microbiota of chickens. In this research, we added three different levels of eubiotic lignocellulose (0%, 2%, and 4%) to the feed of caged and free-range Bian chickens from September to November, aiming to observe the effects of added dietary fiber and different rearing systems on the gut microbial diversity and gut health of chickens, as well as to determine an appropriate amount of lignocellulose. The results showed that adding dietary fiber increased the thickness of the cecum mucus layer and the abundance of Akkermansia and Faecalibacterium in caged chickens, and 4% lignocellulose was appropriate. In addition, adding lignocellulose increased the microbial diversity and the abundance of the butyrate-producing bacteria Faecalibacterium and Roseburia in fee-range chickens. The α-diversity and the length of the small intestine with 2% lignocellulose in free-range chickens were better than with 2% lignocellulose in caged chickens. Maybe it is necessary to add dietary fiber to the feed of free-range chickens when plant fibers are lacking, and 2% lignocellulose was found to be appropriate in this experiment. In addition, compared with caged chickens, the free-range chickens had a longer small intestine and a lower glucagon like peptide-1 (GLP-1) level. The significant difference of GLP-1 levels was mainly driven by energy rather than short chain fatty acids (SCFAs). There was no interaction between added dietary fiber and the rearing system on SCFAs, cecum inner mucus layer, and GLP-1.
Reproductive Performance Following Transcervical Insemination with Frozen Thawed Semen in Ewes Submitted to Surgical Incision of Cervical Folds (SICF): Comparison with Laparoscopic Artificial Insemination
Authors: Pau Salvatore , Falchi Laura , Ledda Mauro , Pivato Ivo , Valentino Melosu , Bogliolo Luisa , Ariu Federica , Zedda Maria Teresa
Published: January 2020

Transcervical artificial insemination (AI) after the surgical incision of cervical folds (SICF) could represent a valid alternative to laparoscopic AI when frozen thawed semen is used. The aim of this experiment was to compare pregnancy (PR) and lambing rates (LR) of ewes submitted either to transcervical AI after SICF or to laparoscopic AI using frozen thawed semen. Pregnant at term ewes (n = 80) were allocated in two experimental groups. After lambing, one group (n = 39) was submitted to SICF. The remaining ewes that were regularly lambed were allocated to the group of laparoscopic AI (n = 40). Six months later, oestrous cycle of both experimental groups was synchronised and all ewes were artificially inseminated with frozen thawed semen. Ewes submitted to SICF underwent transcervical insemination and intrauterine deposition of semen was recorded. The remaining animals were submitted to laparoscopic AI. Pregnancy and LR were recorded. Intrauterine deposition of semen was possible in 89.7% pf ewes submitted to SICF. This group showed similar PR and LR compared to the laparoscopic group (respectively: PR, 71.8% vs. 70% and LR, 64.1% vs. 65%; p > 0.05). Transcervical AI after SICF may represent a valid alternative to laparoscopy in AI protocols requiring the use of frozen thawed semen.
Structure, Magnetic Property, Surface Morphology, and Surface Energy of Co40Fe40V10B10 Films on Si(100) Substrate
Authors: Ou Sin-Liang , Liu Wen-Jen , Chang Yung-Huang , Chen Yuan-Tsung , Wang Yu-Tang , Li Wei-Hsuan , Tseng Jiun-Yi , Wu Te-Ho , Chi Po-Wei , Chu Chun-Lin
Published: January 2020

When B and V are added to CoFe material, the mechanical strength and spin tunneling polarization of a CoFe alloy can be improved and enhanced by the high tunneling magnetoresistance (TMR) ratio. Based on these reasons, it is worthwhile investigating Co40Fe40V10B10 films. In this work, X-ray diffraction (XRD) showed that Co40Fe40V10B10 thin films have some distinct phases including CoFe (110), CoFe (200), FeB (130), and V (110) diffracted peaks with the strongest diffracted peak for 30 nm. The lowest low-frequency alternate-current magnetic susceptibility (χac) was detected at 30 nm because the large grain distribution inducing that high coercivity (Hc) enhances the spin coupling strength and low χac. The external field (Hext) had difficulty rotating in the spin state, hence, the spin sensitivity was reduced and the χac value decreased due to increased surface roughness. The 20 mm thickness had the highest χac 1.96 × 10−2 value at 50 Hz of an optimal resonance frequency (fres). The surface energy increased from 34.2 mJ/mm2 to 51.5 mJ/mm2 for Co40Fe40V10B10 films. High surface energy had corresponding strong adhesive performance. According to the magnetic and surface energy results, the optimal thickness is 20 nm due as it had the highest χac and strong adhesion.
A Multi-Degree of Freedom Tuned Mass Damper Design for Vibration Mitigation of a Suspension Bridge
Authors: Meng Fanhao , Wan Jiancheng , Xia Yongjun , Ma Yong , Yu Jingjun
Published: January 2020

This paper proposes a synthetic approach to design and implement a two-degree of freedom tuned mass damper (2DOFs TMD), aimed at damping bending and torsional modes of bridge decks (it can also be applied to other types of bridges like cable-stayed bridges to realize the energy dissipation). For verifying the effectiveness of the concept model, we cast the parameter optimization of the 2DOFs TMDs conceptual model as a control problem with decentralized static output feedback for minimizing the response of the bridge deck. For designing the expected modes of the 2DOFs TMDs, the graphical approach was introduced to arrange flexible beams properly according to the exact constraints. Based on the optimized frequency ratios, the dimensions of 2DOF TMDs are determined by the compliance matrix method. Finally, the mitigation effect was illustrated and verified by an experimental test on the suspension bridge mock-up. The results showed that the 2DOFs TMD is an effective structural response mitigation device used to mitigate the response of suspension bridges. It was also observed that based on the proposed synthetic approach, 2DOFs TMD parameters can be effectively designed to realize the target modes control.
Lung Ultrasound Imaging, a Technical Review
Authors: Demi Libertario , Egan Thomas , Muller Marie
Published: January 2020

Lung ultrasound (LUS) is a growing and fascinating field of application for ultrasound imaging. Despite the difficulties in imaging an organ largely filled with air, the potential benefits originating from an effective ultrasound method focusing on monitoring and diagnosing lung diseases represent a tremendous stimulus for research in this direction. This paper presents a technical review where, after a brief historical overview, the current limitations of LUS imaging are discussed together with a description of the physical phenomena at stake. Next, the paper focuses on the latest technical developments of LUS.
Data Enhancement for Plant Disease Classification Using Generated Lesions
Authors: Sun Rongcheng , Zhang Min , Yang Kun , Liu Ji
Published: January 2020

Deep learning has recently shown promising results in plant lesion recognition. However, a deep learning network requires a large amount of data for training, but because some plant lesion data is difficult to obtain and very similar in structure, we must generate complete plant lesion leaf images to augment the dataset. To solve this problem, this paper proposes a method to generate complete and scarce plant lesion leaf images to improve the recognition accuracy of the classification network. The advantages of our study include: (i) proposing a binary generator network to solve the problem of how a generative adversarial network (GAN) generates a lesion image with a specific shape and (ii) using the edge-smoothing and image pyramid algorithm to solve the problem that occurs when synthesizing a complete lesion leaf image where the synthetic edge pixels are different and the network output size is fixed but the real lesion size is random. Compared with the recognition accuracy of human experts and AlexNet, it was shown that our method can effectively expand the plant lesion dataset and improve the recognition accuracy of a classification network.
A Prognostic Framework for Wheel Treads Integrating Parameter Correlation and Multiple Uncertainties
Authors: Huang Guifa , Zhao Yu , Wang Han , Ma Xiaobing , Tang Deyao
Published: January 2020

As crucial rotary components of high-speed trains, wheel treads in realistic operation environment usually suffer severe cyclic shocks, which damage the health status and ultimately cause safety risks. Timely and precise health prognosis based on vibration signals is an effective technology to mitigate such risks. In this work, a new parameter-related Wiener process model is proposed to capture multiple uncertainties existed in on-site prognosis of wheel treads. The proposed model establishes a quantitative relationship between degradation rate and variations, and integrates uncertainties via heterogeneity analysis of both criterions. A maximum-likelihood-based method is presented to initialize the unknown model parameters, followed by a recursive update algorithm with fully utilization of historical lifetime information. An investigation of real-world wheel tread signals demonstrates the superiority of the proposed model in accuracy improvement.
Strain Analysis on Electrochemical Failures of Nanoscale Silicon Electrode Based on Three-Dimensional In Situ Measurement
Authors: Qi Zhifeng , Shan Zhongqiang , Ma Weihao , Li Linan , Wang Shibin , Li Chuanwei , Wang Zhiyong
Published: January 2020

Nanoscale silicon film electrodes in Li-ion battery undergo great deformations leading to electrochemical and mechanical failures during repeated charging-discharging cycles. In-situ experimental characterization of the stress/strain in those electrodes still faces big challenges due to remarkable complexity of stress/strain evolution while it is still hard to predict the association between the electrode cycle life and the measurable mechanical parameters. To quantificationally investigate the evolution of the mechanical parameters, we develop a new full field 3D measurement method combining digital image correlation with laser confocal profilometry and propose a strain criterion of the failure based on semi-quantitative analysis via mean strain gradient (MSG). The experimental protocol and results illustrate that the revolution of MSG correlates positively with battery capacity decay, which may inspire future studies in the field of film electrodes.
Processed Fruiting Bodies of Lentinus edodes as a Source of Biologically Active Polysaccharides
Authors: Ziaja-Sołtys Marta , Radzki Wojciech , Nowak Jakub , Topolska Jolanta , Jabłońska-Ryś Ewa , Sławińska Aneta , Skrzypczak Katarzyna , Kuczumow Andrzej , Bogucka-Kocka Anna
Published: January 2020

Water soluble polysaccharides (WSP) were isolated from Lentinus edodes fruiting bodies. The mushrooms were previously subjected to various processing techniques which included blanching, boiling, and fermenting with lactic acid bacteria. Therefore, the impact of processing on the content and biological activities of WSP was established. Non-processed fruiting bodies contained 10.70 ± 0.09 mg/g fw. Boiling caused ~12% decrease in the amount of WSP, while blanched and fermented mushrooms showed ~6% decline. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis (FTIR) confirmed the presence of β-glycosidic links, whereas due to size exclusion chromatography 216 kDa and 11 kDa molecules were detected. WSP exhibited antioxidant potential in FRAP (ferric ion reducing antioxidant power) and ABTS (2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)) assays. Cytotoxic properties were determined on MCF-7 and T47D human breast cell lines using MTT (3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) test. Both biological activities decreased as the result of boiling and fermenting.
Deflection Sliding Mode Control of a Flexible Bar Using a Shape Memory Alloy Actuator with an Uncertainty Model
Authors: Keshtkar Najmeh , Keshtkar Sajjad , Poznyak Alexander
Published: January 2020

This paper presents a penalty-based sliding mode control (SMC) law for flexible bar system, which uses shape memory alloy (SMA) as actuator. SMA actuators are lightweight, compact and flexible which facilitate their integration into flexible structures. The proposed control law manipulates SMA current to exert the necessary force for deflecting the flexible bar into the desired state. Numerical simulations demonstrate that this new method can control the one-input, multi-output under-actuated system of the flexible bar efficiently. The mathematical model of the flexible system is obtained using physical discretization. The bar is modeled as a combination of rigid rods connected by joints without elasticity and friction. This model demonstrates the flexibility of the system in an effective way. The numerical simulation illustrates the feasibility of the proposed model for analyzing the oscillations of the system and the effectivness of proposed control algorithms.
Monitoring and Modeling Roof-Level Wind Speed in a Changing City
Authors: Baumann-Stanzer Kathrin , Stenzel Sirma , Rau Gabriele , Piringer Martin , Feichtinger Felix , Costabloz Théophane
Published: January 2020

Results of an observational campaign and model study are presented demonstrating how the wind field at roof-level in the urban area of Vienna changed due to the construction of a new building nearby. The investigation was designed with a focus on the wind energy yield of a roof-mounted small wind turbine but the findings are also relevant for air dispersion applications. Wind speed profiles above roof top are simulated with the complex fluid dynamics (CFD) model MISKAM (Mikroskaliges Klima- und Ausbreitungsmodell, microscale climate and dispersion model). The comparison to mast measurements reveals that the model underestimates the wind speeds within the first few meters above the roof, but successfully reproduces wind conditions at 10 m above the roof top (corresponding to about 0.5 times the building height). Scenario simulations with different building configurations at the adjacent property result in an increase or decrease of wind speed above roof top depending on the flow direction at the upper boundary of the urban canopy layer (UCL). The maximum increase or decrease in wind speed caused by the alternations in building structure nearby is found to be in the order of 10%. For the energy yield of a roof-mounted small wind turbine at this site, wind speed changes of this magnitude are negligible due to the generally low prevailing wind speeds of about 3.5 m s−1. Nevertheless, wind speed changes of this order could be significant for wind energy yield in urban areas with higher mean wind speeds. This effect in any case needs to be considered in siting and conducting an urban meteorological monitoring network in order to ensure the homogeneity of observed time-series and may alter the emission and dispersion of pollutants or odor at roof level.
TLR2 and TLR4 Surface and Gene Expression in White Blood Cells after Fasting and Oral Glucose, Lipid and Protein Challenges: Influence of Obesity and Sex Hormones
Authors: Martínez-García M. Ángeles , Ojeda-Ojeda Miriam , Rodríguez-Martín Eulalia , Insenser María , Moncayo Samuel , Álvarez-Blasco Francisco , Luque-Ramírez Manuel , Escobar-Morreale Héctor F.
Published: January 2020

We studied if macronutrients of the diet have different effects on leukocyte activation, and if these effects are influenced by sex hormones or obesity. We analyzed leukocyte cell surface and gene expression of toll-like receptors 2 and 4 (TLR2 and TLR4) during fasting and after macronutrient loads in women with polycystic ovary syndrome and female and male controls. Fasting TLR2 surface expression in neutrophils was higher in men than in women. Obese subjects presented higher TLR2 gene expression than nonobese individuals, particularly in men. In contrast, surface TLR4 expression was lower in men and in obese individuals. Postprandial cell-surface expression decreased similarly after all macronutrient loads. Neutrophil TLR2 decreased only in obese subjects whereas TLR4 showed a greater decrease in nonobese individuals. However, TLR2 gene expression increased after glucose ingestion and decreased during the lipid load, while TLR4 was induced in response to lipids and mostly to glucose. Postprandial TLR gene expression was not influenced by group of subjects or obesity. Both cell-surface and gene postprandial expression inversely correlated with their fasting levels. These responses suggest a transient compensatory response aiming to prevent postprandial inflammation. However, obesity and sex hormones showed opposite influences on surface expression of TLR2 and TLR4, but not on their gene expression, pointing to regulatory posttranscriptional mechanisms.
Value of Technical Wear and Costs of Restoring Performance Characteristics to Residential Buildings
Authors: Nowogońska Beata , Korentz Jacek
Published: January 2020

Each building, over the course of subsequent years of use, undergoes wear, with a deterioration of its technical condition. As a result of this, the performance characteristics of a building decrease with the passing of time, with their complete or partial restoration requiring repair and renovation works to be carried out. It is the task of real estate managers or owners to maintain the building in a non-deteriorating technical and functional condition. In order to preserve the technical and functional condition of a building at an adequate level, methodological support of decision-making processes pertaining to the conducting of rational maintenance management is necessary. The present article presents a proposal of a model allowing for the accurate assessment of the costs of renovation and repair works on a building at a given stage of its use, and their relationship with the value of the technical wear of the building in the same time period. Residential buildings constructed using traditional technology were subjected to analysis. In the carried out analysis, temporal methods applied for calculating the level of technical wear were applied, with the PRRD (prediction of reliability according to Rayleigh distribution) model of changes in the performance characteristics applied to determine the costs of renovation works necessary for restoring performance characteristics to the building.
Mitophagy in Alzheimer’s Disease and Other Age-Related Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Cai Qian , Jeong Yu Young
Published: January 2020

Mitochondrial dysfunction is a central aspect of aging and neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and Huntington’s disease. Mitochondria are the main cellular energy powerhouses, supplying most of ATP by oxidative phosphorylation, which is required to fuel essential neuronal functions. Efficient removal of aged and dysfunctional mitochondria through mitophagy, a cargo-selective autophagy, is crucial for mitochondrial maintenance and neuronal health. Mechanistic studies into mitophagy have highlighted an integrated and elaborate cellular network that can regulate mitochondrial turnover. In this review, we provide an updated overview of the recent discoveries and advancements on the mitophagy pathways and discuss the molecular mechanisms underlying mitophagy defects in Alzheimer’s disease and other age-related neurodegenerative diseases, as well as the therapeutic potential of mitophagy-enhancing strategies to combat these disorders.
Dysfunctional Mechanotransduction through the YAP/TAZ/Hippo Pathway as a Feature of Chronic Disease
Authors: Cobbaut Mathias , Karagil Simge , Bruno Lucrezia , Diaz de la Loza Maria Del Carmen , Mackenzie Francesca E , Stolinski Michael , Elbediwy Ahmed
Published: January 2020

In order to ascertain their external environment, cells and tissues have the capability to sense and process a variety of stresses, including stretching and compression forces. These mechanical forces, as experienced by cells and tissues, are then converted into biochemical signals within the cell, leading to a number of cellular mechanisms being activated, including proliferation, differentiation and migration. If the conversion of mechanical cues into biochemical signals is perturbed in any way, then this can be potentially implicated in chronic disease development and processes such as neurological disorders, cancer and obesity. This review will focus on how the interplay between mechanotransduction, cellular structure, metabolism and signalling cascades led by the Hippo-YAP/TAZ axis can lead to a number of chronic diseases and suggest how we can target various pathways in order to design therapeutic targets for these debilitating diseases and conditions.
Network of Interactions between ZIKA Virus Non-Structural Proteins and Human Host Proteins
Authors: Golubeva Volha A. , Nepomuceno Thales C. , de Gregoriis Giuliana , Mesquita Rafael D. , Li Xueli , Dash Sweta , Garcez Patrícia P. , Suarez-Kurtz Guilherme , Izumi Victoria , Koomen John , Carvalho Marcelo A. , Monteiro Alvaro N. A.
Published: January 2020

The Zika virus (ZIKV) is a mosquito-borne Flavivirus and can be transmitted through an infected mosquito bite or through human-to-human interaction by sexual activity, blood transfusion, breastfeeding, or perinatal exposure. After the 2015–2016 outbreak in Brazil, a strong link between ZIKV infection and microcephaly emerged. ZIKV specifically targets human neural progenitor cells, suggesting that proteins encoded by ZIKV bind and inactivate host cell proteins, leading to microcephaly. Here, we present a systematic annotation of interactions between human proteins and the seven non-structural ZIKV proteins corresponding to a Brazilian isolate. The interaction network was generated by combining tandem-affinity purification followed by mass spectrometry with yeast two-hybrid screens. We identified 150 human proteins, involved in distinct biological processes, as interactors to ZIKV non-structural proteins. Our interacting network is composed of proteins that have been previously associated with microcephaly in human genetic disorders and/or animal models. Further, we show that the protein inhibitor of activated STAT1 (PIAS1) interacts with NS5 and modulates its stability. This study builds on previously published interacting networks of ZIKV and genes related to autosomal recessive primary microcephaly to generate a catalog of human cellular targets of ZIKV proteins implicated in processes related to microcephaly in humans. Collectively, these data can be used as a resource for future characterization of ZIKV infection biology and help create a basis for the discovery of drugs that may disrupt the interaction and reduce the health damage to the fetus.
Determination of the Mechanical Properties of PIN–PMN–PT Bulk Single Crystals by Nanoindentation
Authors: Zhang Weiguang , Li Jijun , Xing Yongming , Lang Fengchao , Zhao Chunwang , Hou Xiaohu , Yang Shiting , Xu Guisheng
Published: January 2020

The present study aimed to experimentally evaluate the mechanical properties of Pb(In1/2Nb1/2)O3–Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3–PbTiO3 (PIN–PMN–PT) bulk single crystals with different crystallographic directions using the nanoindentation technique. The load–indentation depth curves, elastic and plastic deformations, hardnesses, and Young’s moduli of [100]- and [110]-oriented 0.28PIN–0.43PMN–0.29PT bulk single crystals were investigated. Our results show that with an increase in the maximum indentation depth hmax, the plastic residual percentage increased for both the [100]- and the [110]-oriented single crystals. At each hmax, the plastic residual percentage of the [100]-oriented PIN–PMN–PT single crystals was less than that of the [110]-oriented PIN–PMN–PT single crystals. At hmax from 500 nm to 2000 nm, the plastic deformation was larger than the elastic deformation, and the plastic residual percentage was larger than 50% for both the [100]- and the [110]-oriented single crystals. This means that the plastic deformation dominated in the indentation process of PIN–PMN–PT single crystals. The indentation size effect on the hardness of the PIN–PMN–PT single crystals was apparent in the nanoindentation process. Both the hardness and the Young’s modulus of the [100]-PIN–PMN–PT single crystals were greater than those of the [110]-PIN–PMN–PT single crystals, which indicates that the PIN–PMN–PT single crystals had anisotropic mechanical characteristics.
An Automatic Diagnosis of Arrhythmias Using a Combination of CNN and LSTM Technology
Authors: Zheng Zhenyu , Chen Zhencheng , Hu Fangrong , Zhu Jianming , Tang Qunfeng , Liang Yongbo
Published: January 2020

Electrocardiogram (ECG) signal evaluation is routinely used in clinics as a significant diagnostic method for detecting arrhythmia. However, it is very labor intensive to externally evaluate ECG signals, due to their small amplitude. Using automated detection and classification methods in the clinic can assist doctors in making accurate and expeditious diagnoses of diseases. In this study, we developed a classification method for arrhythmia based on the combination of a convolutional neural network and long short-term memory, which was then used to diagnose eight ECG signals, including a normal sinus rhythm. The ECG data of the experiment were derived from the MIT-BIH arrhythmia database. The experimental method mainly consisted of two parts. The input data of the model were two-dimensional grayscale images converted from one-dimensional signals, and detection and classification of the input data was carried out using the combined model. The advantage of this method is that it does not require performing feature extraction or noise filtering on the ECG signal. The experimental results showed that the implemented method demonstrated high classification performance in terms of accuracy, specificity, and sensitivity equal to 99.01%, 99.57%, and 97.67%, respectively. Our proposed model can assist doctors in accurately detecting arrhythmia during routine ECG screening.
An Organic Rankine Cycle Bottoming a Diesel Engine Powered Passenger Car
Authors: Mariani Antonio , Mastellone Maria Laura , Morrone Biagio , Prati Maria Vittoria , Unich Andrea
Published: January 2020

Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) power plants are characterized by high efficiency and flexibility, as a result of a high degree of maturity. These systems are particularly suited for recovering energy from low temperature heat sources, such as exhaust heat from other plants. Despite ORCs having been assumed to be appropriate for stationary power plants, since their layout, size and weight constraints are less stringent, they represent a possible solution for improving the efficiency of propulsion systems for road transportation. The present paper investigates an ORC system recovering heat from the exhaust gases of an internal combustion engine. A passenger car with a Diesel engine was tested over a Real Driving Emission (RDE) cycle. During the test exhaust gas mass flow rate and temperature have been measured, thus calculating the enthalpy stream content available as heat addition to ORC plant in actual driving conditions. Engine operating conditions during the test were discretized with a 10-point grid in the engine torque–speed plane. The ten discretized conditions were employed to evaluate the ORC power and the consequent engine efficiency increase in real driving conditions for the actual Rankine cycle. N-pentane (R601) was identified as the working fluid for ORC and R134a was employed as reference fluid for comparison purposes. The achievable power from the ORC system was calculated to be between 0.2 and 1.3 kW, with 13% system efficiency. The engine efficiency increment ranged from 2.0% to 7.5%, with an average efficiency increment of 4.6% over the RDE test.
PtPd Hybrid Composite Catalysts as Cathodes for Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells
Authors: Rivera-Lugo Yazmín Yorely , Pérez-Muñoz Kevin Isaac , Trujillo-Navarrete Balter , Silva-Carrillo Carolina , Reynoso-Soto Edgar Alonso , Calva Yañez Julio Cesar , Lin Shui Wai , Flores-Hernández José Roberto , Félix-Navarro Rosa María
Published: January 2020

In this work, PtPd hybrid cathodic catalysts were prepared for a proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) application by two different strategies. The first strategy was the physical mixing of bimetallic PtPd onto partially reduced graphene oxide (PtPd/rGO) and PtPd onto multi-walled carbon nanotubes (PtPd/MWCNT); (PtPd/rGO) + (PtPd/MWCNT). The second strategy was physical mixing of both carbonaceous supports before the PtPd deposition to form PtPd/(rGO:MWCNT). Our experimental results revealed that the PtPd nanomaterial prepared over a mixture of both carbonaceous supports had better oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and PEMFC performances than the individually prepared catalysts. The insertion of MWCNT between rGO sheets prevented their stacking. This promoted the diffusion of oxygen molecules through the interlayer spacing, enhancing the ORR’s electrocatalytic activity. The durability test demonstrated that the hybrid supporting material dramatically improved the catalyst’s stability even after 3000 reaction cycles. This highlighted an increase greater than 100% for hybrid nanocomposites in their electrocatalytic activity as compared with the PtPd/rGO nanocomposite.
Oleogels in Food: A Review of Current and Potential Applications
Authors: Pușcaș Andreea , Mureșan Vlad , Socaciu Carmen , Muste Sevastița
Published: January 2020

Legislative limitations of the use of trans and saturated fatty acids, the rising concerns among consumers about the negative effects of some fats on human health, and environmental and health considerations regarding the increased use of palm fat in food and biodiesel production drove to innovations in reformulating fat-containing food products. Oleogelation is one of the most in-trend methods for reducing or replacing the unhealthy and controversial fats in food products. Different edible oleogels are being formulated by various techniques and used in spreads, bakeries, confectioneries, and dairy and meat products. This review exclusively focuses on up-to-date applications of oleogels in food and mechanisms of gelation, and discusses the properties of new products. Research has produced acceptable reformulated food products with similar technological and rheological properties as the reference products or even products with improved techno-functionality; however, there is still a high need to improve oleogelation methods, as well as the technological process of oleogel-based foods products. Despite other strategies that aim to reduce or replace the occurrence of trans and saturated fats in food, oleogelation presents a great potential for industrial application in the future due to nutritional and environmental considerations.
Do Patients’ Privacy Concerns Influence Their Intention toward Medical Image Exchange Consent in Taiwan?
Authors: Tseng Hsiao-Ting , Hung Won-Fu , Hwang Hsin-Ginn , Chang I-Chiu
Published: January 2020

The primary purpose of this study was to examine patients’ concerns surrounding information privacy and their intention toward medical image exchange consent. Patients’ concerns about information privacy in terms of collection, unauthorized access, errors and secondary use all have significant relationships with patients’ intention toward medical image exchange consent in Taiwan. Trust is the foundation for both parties. In this study, we aimed to determine the moderating effect of trust in order to examine patients’ intention toward medical image exchange consent under the influence of their information privacy concerns. Three hundred and fifty patients responded to the survey, which yielded a 92.3% response rate. The results of data analysis revealed that patients’ information privacy concerns had no significant relationship with patients’ intention toward medical image exchange consent. After considering the moderating effect of trust, patients’ information privacy concerns do have a significant relationship with patients’ intention toward medical image exchange consent, however, the R-square was only 4.5%. Based on this research result, we modified the research framework in order to examine patients’ information privacy concerns in terms of collection/non-collection. The R-square of the modified framework was 18.6%, and both collection and non-collection had significant relationships with patients’ intention toward medical image exchange consent. Finally, the implications, limitations and future research have been discussed.
Breastfeeding in the Community—How Can Partners/Fathers Help? A Systematic Review
Authors: Ogbo Felix , Akombi Blessing , Ahmed Kedir , Rwabilimbo Abdon , Ogbo Akorede , Uwaibi Noel , Ezeh Osita , Agho Kingsley ,   on behalf of the Global Maternal and Child Health Research Collaboration (GloMACH)
Published: January 2020

Support from partners/fathers and families can play a significant role in a mother’s decision to initiate, continue or cease breastfeeding postnatally. This study systematically reviewed published studies to determine the impact of specific types of partner support on breastfeeding initiation, duration and exclusivity. We used the 2015 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines for the review. Seven computerized bibliographic databases (Embase, ProQuest Central, Scopus, PsycINFO, Web of Science, MEDLINE/PubMed and CINAHL) were searched. Of a total of 695 articles retrieved from the databases, seven studies met the inclusion criteria and reported on breastfeeding initiation, duration and exclusivity. Four of the seven studies found that partner support in the form of verbal encouragement to new mothers increased breastfeeding duration and exclusivity. Other types of partner supportive actions that led to improved breastfeeding behavior included sensitivity of the partner to the nursing mother’s needs, assistance in preventing and managing breastfeeding difficulties, and helping with household and child care duties. This review showed that specific supportive actions of partners/fathers in the community positively improved breastfeeding practices. To maximise the impact of breastfeeding policies and interventions among new mothers, breastfeeding programmes should consider the involvement of partners/fathers and their specific roles.
Associations among Adolescents’ Relationships with Parents, Peers, and Teachers, Self-Efficacy, and Willingness to Intervene in Bullying: A Social Cognitive Approach
Authors: Wachs Sebastian , Görzig Anke , Wright Michelle F. , Schubarth Wilfried , Bilz Ludwig
Published: January 2020

We applied the Social Cognitive Theory to investigate whether parent–child relationships, bullying victimization, and teacher–student relationships are directly as well as indirectly via self-efficacy in social conflicts associated with adolescents’ willingness to intervene in a bullying incident. There were 2071 (51.3% male) adolescents between the ages of 12 and 17 from 24 schools in Germany who participated in this study. A mediation test using structural equation modeling revealed that parent–child relationships, bullying victimization, and teacher–student relationships were directly related to adolescents’ self-efficacy in social conflicts. Further, teacher–student relationships and bullying victimization were directly associated with adolescents’ willingness to intervene in bullying. Finally, relationships with parents, peers and teachers were indirectly related to higher levels of students’ willingness to intervene in bullying situations due to self-efficacy in social conflicts. Thus, our analysis confirms the general assumptions of Social Cognitive Theory and the usefulness of applying its approach to social conflicts such as bullying situations.
Risk Assessment of Gas Leakage from School Laboratories Based on the Bayesian Network
Authors: Zhang Xiao , Hu Xiaofeng , Bai Yiping , Wu Jiansong
Published: January 2020

In recent years, concerns about the safety of laboratories have been caused by several serious accidents in school laboratories. Gas leaks in the laboratory are often difficult to detect and cause serious consequences. In this study, a comprehensive model based on the Bayesian network is established for the assessment of the gas leaks evolution process and consequences in school laboratories. The model can quantitatively evaluate the factors affecting the probability and consequences of gas leakage. The results show that a model is an effective tool for assessing the risk of gas leakage. Among the various factors, the unsafe behavior of personnel has the greatest impact on the probability of gas leakage, and the concentration of toxic and harmful gases is the main factor affecting the consequences of accidents. Since the probability distribution of each node is obtained based on the experience of experts, there is a deviation in the quantitative calculation of the probability of gas leakage and consequences, but does not affect the risk analysis. This study could quantitatively assess the probability and consequences of gas leakage in the laboratory, and identify vulnerabilities, which helps improve the safety management level of gas in the school laboratory and reducing the possibility of gas leakage posing a threat to personal safety.
Prevalence of Chronic Kidney Disease in Cuttack District of Odisha, India
Authors: Mohanty Nisith Kumar , Sahoo Krushna Chandra , Pati Sanghamitra , Sahu Asish K. , Mohanty Reena
Published: January 2020

Chronic kidney disease is one of the major health challenges in India. Cuttack district of the Odisha state of India is regarded as a hotspot for chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, there is limited information on true prevalence. This study estimates the prevalence of CKD in the Narsinghpur block of Cuttack district, Odisha. A cross-sectional study was conducted among population members aged 20–60 years. Using a multi-stage cluster sampling. 24 villages were randomly selected for mass screening for CKD. Blood samples were collected and glomerulus filtration rates were calculated. It was found that among the 2978 people screened, 14.3% were diagnosed with CKD and 10.8% were diagnosed with CKD without either diabetes or hypertension. In one-third of the sampled villages, about 20% population was diagnosed with CKD. The prevalence was higher among males (57%), in the population below 50 years of age (54%), lower socioeconomic groups (70%), and agricultural occupational groups (48%). Groundwater tube wells (49%) and wells (41%) were the main drinking water sources for CKD patients. This study highlights the need for detection of unknown etiologies of CKD and public health interventions for the prevention of CKD in India.
Modelling the Effects of MCM7 Variants, Somatic Mutations, and Clinical Features on Acute Myeloid Leukemia Susceptibility and Prognosis
Authors: Tripon Florin , Iancu Mihaela , Trifa Adrian , Crauciuc George Andrei , Boglis Alina , Dima Delia , Lazar Erzsebet , Bănescu Claudia
Published: January 2020

The main objective of the study was to evaluate the associations between MCM7 rs2070215, rs1527423, and rs1534309 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) risk and prognosis. The secondary objectives were to assess if any relationships existed between the mentioned SNPs and FLT3, DNMT3A, NPM1 mutations with clinical outcomes and overall survival (OS) in AML patients. We investigated 281 AML cases and 405 healthy subjects. The results showed a significant association between a variant allele of rs2070215 (p = 0.007), CAT haplotype (p = 0.012), and AML susceptibility. No significant association was found between MCM7 variant genotypes and overall survival of AML patients (p > 0.05), while several associations between somatic mutations, clinical and biological features, and poor OS were noticed. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) level ≥ 600 IU/L had a significant effect on the hazard of death (p = 0.004, HR = 1.49, 95% CI: 1.13–1.95). Our study showed that the variant allele of rs2070215, in the allelic model, and CAT haplotype were associated with AML susceptibility. The investigated FLT3, DNMT3A, and NPM1 mutations were associated with the clinical and biological features and poor OS. LDH level ≥ 600 IU/L was associated with an increased hazard of death and this association remained significant when quantifying for effect modification by FLT3 mutation status.
Relationship between the Renal Function and Adverse Clinical Events in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation: A Japanese Multicenter Registry Substudy
Authors: Yuzawa Yasuhumi , Kuronuma Keiichiro , Okumura Yasuo , Yokoyama Katsuaki , Matsumoto Naoya , Tachibana Eizo , Oiwa Koji , Matsumoto Michiaki , Kojima Toshiaki , Haruta Hironori , Nomoto Kazumiki , Sonoda Kazumasa , Arima Ken , Kogawa Rikitake , Takahashi Fumiyuki , Kotani Tomobumi , Okubo Kimie , Fukushima Seiji , Itou Satoru , Kondo Kunio , Chiku Masaaki , Ohno Yasumi , Onikura Motoyuki , Hirayama Atsushi ,   on behalf of the SAKURA AF Registry Investigators
Published: January 2020

Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) often coexist, but the real-world data after approval of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are still lacking in Japan. We investigated the association of the baseline renal function and adverse clinical events and risk of adverse clinical events with DOACs compared to warfarin for each renal functional level in Japanese AF patients. Methods: The present substudy was based on the SAKURA AF Registry, a Japanese multicenter observational registry (median follow-up period: 39 months). The creatinine clearance (CrCl) values were estimated by the Cockcroft–Gault formula, and divided into normal renal function, and mild and moderate-severe CKD (CrCl ≥ 80, 50–79, <50 mL/min). Results: In the SAKURA AF Registry, the baseline CrCl data were available for 3242 patients (52% for DOAC and 48% for warfarin user). The relative risk of adverse clinical events was significantly higher in the patients with a CrCl < 50 mL/min as compared to those with a CrCl ≥ 80 mL/min (adjusted HRs: 2.53 for death, 2.53 for cardiovascular [CV] events, 2.13 for strokes, and 1.83 for major bleeding). Risks of all adverse clinical events were statistically even between DOAC and warfarin users for each renal function level. Conclusion: Moderate–severe CKD was associated with a higher mortality, CV events, strokes, and major bleeding than normal renal function. The safety and effectiveness of DOACs over warfarin were similar for each renal function level. By a worsening renal function, the incidence of adverse clinical events increased, especially deaths and CV events as compared to strokes and major bleeding.