bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Ceremonial Procession and Meaning of Makan Patita in Negeri Oma - Maluku
Authors: Matitaputty Jenny Koce , Masinay Ida
Published: August 2020

Makan Patita is a tradition of communal feasting or eating together among Maluku communities that practiced in festivity the Panas Pela, Panas Gandong, King coronation, building Baileo house, the celebration of city`s anniversary day, and other events in Ambon city. However, for the people of Negeri Oma in Haruku Island, the tradition of Makan Patita differs from others. The differences are attracted to be discussed about the ceremonial procession and its meaning of the tradition of Makan Patita in Negeri Oma. This research aims to describe the ceremonial process and its meaning of the Makan Patita Soa practiced in Negeri Oma, Haruku Island District, Central Maluku Regency, Maluku Province, Indonesia. This is a qualitative research where the data source obtained purposively and the data collection techniques by using observation, interview, and documentation. The results showed that: 1) Makan Patita in Negeri Oma is divided into two types; first, the uncle feeds his nephew/child (Mara/Marei), and also the nephew/child feeds his uncle (ana kas makang om). There are three stages in the practice of Makan Patita tradition; the initial stage, a time-set meeting, and preparation of various things, both food and a long white table and the prayers of struggle in Baileo Kotayasa by the Bapa Lima-Lima. In the second stage, the Makan Patita begins with Cakelele dances and the ceremonial procession takes children to the Patita dining table, then the uncles feed their nephews. In the final stage, each remaining food must be brought back and eaten by all children at home, then covered with a Eucharistic prayer for the Soa and Maradansa. 2) The meaning of Makan Patita tradition for the people in Negeri Oma is kinship ties, respect, and appreciation for elders (uncles) and it contains the symbolic meaning of hope to the children in the Soa will become a good generation and remain in the fellowship of siblings.
Determination of Passive Failure Surface Geometry for Cohesionless Backfills
Authors: Soltanbeigi Behzad , Altunbas Adlen , Gezgin Ahmet Talha , Cinicioglu Ozer
Published: August 2020

Correct determination of the passive failure surface geometry is necessary for the design of retaining structures. The conventional theories assume linear passive failure surfaces even though it is known that the actual failure surfaces are non-linear. Many researchers claimed the appropriateness of a hybrid curved-linear method. This approach estimates the curved section by a log-spiral function, which then connects to the backfill surface with the conventional linear assumption. The main drawback here is that the geometric properties of the hybrid mathematical function is not directly related to the mechanical properties of soils. Thus, this study attempts to provide a mechanical description for the assumed geometrical parameters. For this purpose, a series of 1 g small scale retaining wall model tests, simulating passive failure, are conducted on two different backfill soils. The relative density is varied in the model tests and the resultant peak friction angles of the backfills are calculated as functions of failure stress state and relative density using a well-known empirical equation. Transparent sidewalls allow for visualization of the failure surface evolution, which is obtained by capturing images and analysing then through Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) technique. Subsequently, the quantified slip zones are fitted with the hybrid curved-linear approach. The relationships between the peak friction angle and the geometrical characteristics of the best-fit log-spiral and linear functions are investigated. Obtained results are used to propose a set of equations that allow the estimation of non-linear passive failure surfaces as function of peak friction angle.
COVID-19 Australia: Epidemiology Report 22: Fortnightly reporting period ending 2 August 2020
Authors:   COVID-19 National Incident Room Surveillance Team
Published: August 2020

Confirmed cases in Australia this reporting period (20 July to 2 August): 6,121 notifications, 71 deaths. Cumulative: 18,367 notifications, 240 deaths.
Over the past fortnightly reporting period (20 July to 2 August), the number of new cases reported nationally increased from 3,462 in the previous fortnight to 6,121. The large increase in numbers is due to multiple epidemiologically-linked outbreaks across a range of settings and locations in Victoria (97%; 5,914 cases) with very few (207) cases reported by other jurisdictions in this reporting period. Of the 5,914 cases reported in Victoria, all were locally acquired. Of the remaining 207 cases nationally reported, only 23% were reported as locally acquired. ACT is the only jurisdiction reporting 0 cases, with its last case reported on 9 July. A total of 71 deaths were reported, all from Victoria. On average, 437 cases were reported each day over the reporting period, an increase from 247 cases per day over the previous fortnight. Testing rates remain high across all jurisdictions, with an overall positivity rate for the reporting period of 0.7%. Victoria reported a positivity rate of 1.7% for this reporting period; in all other jurisdictions the positivity rate was 0.07% or lower. Overall, syndromic surveillance of respiratory illness trends continues to show very low levels compared to previous years. 12% of cases have required hospitalisation or intensive care.
JAPON DİNİ VE MİLLİ UYANIŞINDA MOTOORİ NORİNAGA’NIN ETKİSİ
Authors: KAYA Murat
Published: August 2020

Japon kültürü, kendi özgün geleneklerinin yanı sıra önemli ölçüde komşu kültürlerin etkisiyle oluşmuştur. Özellikle Çin kültürü, çok eski zamanlardan beri Japon kültürünü etkisi altına almaya başlamış ve kendi bünyesinden birçok unsuru Japon kültürüne taşımıştır. Japonya’ya taşınan bu kültürel unsurların başında din ve dil gelmiştir. Budizm ve Konfüçyanizm aracılığıyla Japonya’da dini hayatı yönlendiren Çin, Çince aracılığıyla da Japon edebiyatına hâkim olmuştur. Çin’in Japonya’daki bu hâkimiyeti, Tokugawa döneminde (1603-1868) sarsılmaya başlamış ve bu dönemden itibaren Çin kültürüne karşı Japon kültürünü savunan milli araştırmalar ortaya çıkmıştır. Japon klasiklerini konu edinen bu araştırmaların en meşhurunu, Kojiki tefsiri (Kojiki-den) ile Motoori Norinaga yapmıştır. Norinaga, otuz beş yıllık çalışmalarının sonucunda ortaya koyduğu düşüncelerle Japon dini ve milli uyanışında büyük bir etki yapmıştır. O, kendi döneminde dinsel ve dilsel bir farkındalık oluştururken, kendisinden sonraki Meiji döneminde ise milli bir devletin temelini oluşturmuştur. Konunun bu önemi nedeniyle bu çalışmada Norinaga’nın dini ve milli düşünceleri ele alınmış ve bu düşüncelerin Japon dini ve milli uyanışındaki etkisi incelenmiştir. Bu bağlamda çalışma Norinaga’nın hayatı, düşünceleri ve uyanışa etkisi olmak üzere üç bölüme ayrılmıştır. Sonuç olarak Norinaga’nın kutsal soy, üstün millet ve imparatorluk kültü açısından Japon dini ve milli uyanışını etkilediği düşüncesine varılmıştır.
Treatment of prisoners and prison personnel training in Germany
Authors: Müller Thomas
Published: August 2020

The article devoted to one of the topical problems of penitentiary institutions – the return to society of a prisoner who has served a sentence, provided that he or she will never commit crimes. This is the most difficult problem that arises in the course of the implementation by the penitentiary system of its main function – to ensure the safety of society. In many countries, the degree of prisoners’ isolation is determined by their categorization. German practice is based on a risk assessment of illegal conduct in relation to a particular person. The risk of violent acts is not necessarily related to the nature of the committed crime or the length of the sentence. The prison administration makes its own decision on the choice of the regime of detention. The penitentiary system (not the court) develops flexible security measures that can be changed in relation to the prisoner’s personality. All measures taken against prisoners should be based on the proportionality principle. The analysis of various rehabilitation programs for prisoners, used in Western Europe, leads the author to the conclusion that the most effective of them is individual therapy, which reduces the risk of recidivism by almost half. As a standard used in Germany, the author specify the principle of “risk – need – quick res-ponse”. The higher the risk of recidivism, the more intense the impact on the prisoner’s behavior should be. However, the application of this principle will be effective only when the selected cognitive techniques and practical training technologies coincide with the individual characteristics and the prisoner’s ability to learn. In addition, the results achieved by the prison administration must be supported by post-penitentiary rehabilitation programs. The article also describes the system of selection and training of prison personnel in Germany.
‘A not unedifying field for some local antiquary of the future’: new evidence on library activity and mutual improvement. The experience of the north-east of Scotland
Authors: Crawford John C.
Published: August 2020

Mutual improvement, an early form of lifelong learning, was widespread among the nineteenth-century working classes and has been portrayed as a variable and relatively unstructured phenomenon. This essay challenges this view by examining the movement in north-east Scotland in the nineteenth century and its symbiotic relationship with library activity as libraries provided information to facilitate debate. The movement originated in the 1830s and flourished until the end of the century. Mutual improvement activity was fuelled by religious division and a relationship with the Liberal Party. The principal ideologue of the movement, which peaked in the 1850s, was Robert Harvie Smith, who articulated a sophisticated lifelong learning ideology supported by specific learning objectives, prioritised in order. A notable feature was the involvement of women in the movement. Most of the participants were tradesmen or small tenant farmers, and the subjects of their debates reflected their preoccupations: modern farming, religious controversy, and the ‘farm servant problem’. The movement anticipated the university extension movement by about thirty years. Because the north-east had its own university and was a self-contained learning culture, mutual improvers might proceed to university, thus anticipating modern ideas about received prior learning (RPL) and articulation. Mutual improvement activity demonstrates the continuing intellectual vitality in rural Scotland in the late nineteenth century.
educación inclusiva implítica en los programas analíticos
Authors: Cante Soriano Riyid Yasmira , Zamudio Garnica Leidi Yoana
Published: August 2020

Esta investigación buscó establecer como los Programas Analíticos de Curso (PAC) responden a la propuesta de educación inclusiva de la Corporación Universitaria Iberoamericana desde los planteamientos que se desarrollan en el Proyecto Educativo Institucional PEI y el marco de Inclusión Educativa Iberoamericana (PIEI). Se realizó bajo un enfoque cualitativo de tipo investigación documental con dos instrumentos de recolección de datos. Se buscó determinar cómo los Programas Analíticos de Curso en el área de formación profesional específica en los cursos de fundamentos de pedagogía, didáctica, currículo, evaluación y prácticas pedagógicas de las Licenciaturas a Distancia Tradicional responden a una propuesta de Educación inclusiva, con el fin de mejorar los procesos académicos y, por ende, el perfil del egresado de las licenciaturas en modalidad distancia tradicional de la Corporación. Al responder la pregunta planteada en la investigación, se evidenció que actualmente se hace necesario replantear los programas analíticos a la luz del PIEI y de la misión y visión de la Corporación, con el fin de lograr una formación integral con enfoque diferencial en los egresados, que implique, una formación teórica práctica alrededor de la educación inclusiva, enfoque diferencial, atención a la diversidad, ajustes razonables y accesibilidad. De igual forma, en el análisis se conoció, cómo en los programas analíticos se registra igualdad conceptual en muchos aspectos y se hace necesario realizar ajustes en su contextualización con el objetivo de una educación inclusiva desde el marco de la diversidad. También se evidenció que los programas analíticos, en el componente de pedagogía ciencias de la Educación de las dos licenciaturas son iguales y se debe evidenciar la especificidad en cada licenciatura en su contextualización apuntando a una educación inclusiva desde el marco de la diversidad.
Incidencia del clima familiar y escolar en la conducta de ciberacoso: Estudio con adolescentes de Córdoba (Argentina)
Authors: Cardozo Griselda
Published: August 2020

El mayor acceso y el incremento en el uso de las tecnologías ha invadido el mundo adolescente y, a partir de ello, se observa un nuevo tipo de agresión más expansiva y nociva denominado ciberacoso. Se considera importante incluir en el estudio de esta problemática el análisis del clima familiar como el escolar. El estudio de tipo cuantitativo tiene como objetivo estudiar la prevalencia del ciberacoso en función de los diferentes roles, sexo, edad y gestión escolar; determinar en qué medida el ciberacoso y las variables de clima escolar y familiar están relacionadas y caracterizar los grupos de adolescentes en relación a las conductas de ciberacoso y las variables en estudio. Se administró el test Cyberbullying a 3,500 adolescentes entre 11 y 20 años. Los resultados arrojan que se encuentra mayor proporción de varones en el rol de ciberagresores (escuelas privadas) y las mujeres de escuelas públicas se posicionan más como cibervíctimas y ciberobservadoras. En ambos tipos de gestión son las chicas quienes presentan una diferencia significativa en relación a las dimensiones de clima familiar y escolar. En el análisis de correlación se observa que si bien la mayoría de las relaciones estudiadas, son estadísticamente significativas, los coeficientes encontrados son moderados o bajos. El análisis de clúster permitió identificar cuatro grupos con una explicación del 70% de la variabilidad interna de los datos. Se concluye en la necesidad de incorporar las dimensiones del contexto familiar y escolar en programas socioeducativos centrados en la prevención y reducción del ciberacoso.
Relaciones conceptuales: comparación entre Niños, Adultos Jóvenes y Adultos Mayores
Authors: García Coni Ana , Comesaña Ana , Piccolo Brenda , Vivas Jorge Ricardo
Published: August 2020

El estudio de la organización del conocimiento en la memoria semántica suscita gran interés en Psicología Cognitiva y Neuropsicología. El conocimiento semántico está representado por conceptos que comparten características y forman una jerarquía inclusiva -organización taxonómica-, o que se vinculan en tiempo y espacio -organización temática o situacional-. Se considera que a lo largo del desarrollo cambia la preferencia por estos tipos de organización, pero son pocos los estudios que comparan las organizaciones conceptuales de niños en edad escolar, adultos jóvenes y mayores, y sus resultados son divergentes. Asimismo, la organización conceptual también varía en función del dominio al que pertenece el concepto (vivo vs no vivo). Por lo tanto, el objetivo general de este estudio fue estudiar qué tipos de organización conceptual empleaban esos grupos en una tarea de producción de atributos para conceptos de seres vivos y no vivos. Los resultados indican que la producción de atributos taxonómicos fue significativamente mayor para los adultos jóvenes que para los adultos mayores y los niños, en tanto la producción taxonómica de estos dos últimos grupos fue pareja. En cuanto a la producción temática, fue alta y homogénea en los tres grupos de edad. Por último, para el dominio de los seres no vivos los atributos resultaron en su mayoría temáticos y perceptivos, y para el dominio de los seres vivos, mayormente perceptivos.
Estructura evolutiva del cuidado, desarrollo socio-cognitivo y prácticas cotidianas
Authors: Giraldo Huertas Juan José
Published: August 2020

El desarrollo infantil en el marco del ciclo vital puede resultar limitado si se eligen variables, además de la edad, que sólo se circunscriben a condiciones inevitables para la supervivencia. Este artículo recoge un intento por lograr una definición amplia, más allá del ciclo vital y en el marco de una estructura evolutiva del cuidado. Para tal objetivo, además de una discusión conceptual previa sobre una estructura evolutiva del cuidado y desarrollo socio-cognitivo, se presentan algunos resultados del Programa Inicio Parejo de la Vida. Se analizan los datos de 1177 participantes sobre actividades delectura, juego y otras más consideradas constitutivas e indispensables en la definición adoptada de desarrollo infantil y cuidado. Un primer análisis descriptivo de estos resultados indica una situación adversa para más del 80% de los niños participantes y genera dos hipótesis a discutir e indica una necesidad de atender con mayor urgencia la función de los agentes de cuidado y desarrollo en diversos niveles de atención.
Escala de desarrollo armónico (EDA): Una propuesta para la evaluación clínica del desarrollo infantil desde la Teoría de Sistemas
Authors: Abellán Olivares Francisco Javier , Serra Desfilis Emilia , López Pina José Antonio
Published: August 2020

Los profesionales de las ciencias de la salud y de la educación necesitan herramientas adecuadas para llevar a cabo la prevención de los trastornos del desarrollo infantil. La Escala de Desarrollo Armónico –EDA–, se presenta como una propuesta que permite la coordinación interdisciplinaria y la colaboración de los educadores. La escala se ha construido para observar el ascenso del paisaje epigenético individual desde el paradigma de los sistemas dinámicos. Para lograrlo, se han estudiado parámetros que pueden explicar la evolución del sistema –índice de armonía y cociente de desarrollo estable–, un mecanismo del cambio –tirón cognitivo– y fuerzas moldeadoras –velocidad y cristalización–, siguiendo el principio de «armonía» para alcanzar el máximo desarrollo potencial. La estructura de la escala es adecuada para funcionar como un test adaptativo informatizado, por lo que resulta accesible, fácil de usar y puede validarse siguiendo la metodología de respuesta al ítem –TRI–. Las cualidades «orgánicas» de la EDA permiten un funcionamiento interactivo a través de Internet –www.maternal.eu–, donde ya presta servicio a educadores, profesionales e investigadores.
Problemas de Salud Mental en Niños con Fisura Labiopalatina
Authors: Ortega Javiera , Vázquez Natalia
Published: August 2020

Los niños que padecen enfermedades genéticas son una población vulnerable para desarrollar problemas de salud mental. La fisura labiopalatina (FLAP) es una anomalía congénita de tipo estructural. Objetivo: Estudiar el impacto a nivel familiar del diagnóstico de FLAP. Metodología: Alcance descriptivo, de diseño mixto y corte transversal. Se construyó un cuestionario autoadministrado compuesto por un consentimiento informado, un cuestionario de datos sociodemográficos, el Child Behavior CheckList y preguntas abiertas. El muestreo fue intencional y la muestra fue de 42 casos. Resultados: El diagnóstico de una fisura labio palatina es una experiencia difícil en los padres, quienes viven este momento de manera negativa, con tristeza y miedo.  Los niños en edad preescolar con diagnóstico de fisura labiopalatina son una población en riesgo de desarrollar trastornos psicopatológicos, mayormente de tipo externalizantes.
Energy Harvesting of Ionic Polymer-Metal Composites Based on Microcellular Foamed Nafion in Aqueous Environment
Authors: Kweon Byung Chul , Sohn Joo Seong , Ryu Youngjae , Cha Sung Woon
Published: August 2020

The purpose of this study was to determine how to improve the energy-harvesting properties of polymer electrolyte membranes by varying their porosity. We achieved this by applying microcellular foaming process (MCP) to Nafion-based ionic polymer–metal composites (IPMCs). We manufactured an IPMC by forming a Pt electrode through an electroless plating method on the Nafion film, to which porosity was imparted by varying the foaming ratio and inducing deformation by vibrating the specimen using a prototype device that we developed ourselves. We attempted to harvest energy via fluid flow that occurred owing to displacement movement. When the Nafion film was foamed at a temperature of 140 °C or higher, it was observed that cells with size of approximately 1 µm or more were formed, and when the saturation temperature was lowered, a denser and larger number of cells were formed. Moreover, the cells formed on the electrolyte membrane allowed the retention of more water. Water retention generated charges contributed to the operational stability of IPMC. This was attributed to the difference in the amount of charge generated by changing only the internal morphology of the electrolyte membrane, without changing the substrate or the electrode material.
Short- and Long-Term Effects of Lime and Gypsum Applications on Acid Soils in a Water-Limited Environment: 1. Grain Yield Response and Nutrient Concentration
Authors: Anderson Geoffrey C. , Pathan Shahab , Easton James , Hall David J. M. , Sharma Rajesh
Published: August 2020

Surface (0–10 cm) and subsoil (soil layers below 10 cm) acidity and resulting aluminum (Al) toxicity reduce crop grain yields. In South Western Australia (SWA), these constraints affect 14.2 million hectares or 53% of the agricultural area. Both lime (L, CaCO3) and gypsum (G, CaSO4) application can decrease the toxic effect of Al, leading to an increase in crop grain yields. Within the region, it is unclear if G alone or the combined use of L and G has a role in alleviating soil acidity in SWA, due to low sulfate S (SO4–S) sorption properties of the soil. We present results from three experiments located in the eastern wheatbelt of SWA, which examined the short-term (ST, 2 growing seasons), medium-term (MT, 3 growing seasons), and long-term (LT, 7 growing seasons over 10 years) effects of L and G on grain yield and plant nutrient concentrations. Despite the rapid leaching of SO4–S and no self-liming impact, it was profitable to apply G, due to the significant ST grain yield responses. The grain yield response to G developed even following relatively dry years, but declined over time due to SO4–S leaching. At the LT experimental site had received no previous L application, whereas, at the ST and MT sites, L had been applied by the grower over the previous 5–10 years. For the LT site, the most profitable treatment for wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) grain yield, was the combined application of 4 t L ha−1 with 2 t G ha−1. At this site, the 0–10 cm soil pHCaCl2 was 4.6, and AlCaCl2 was greater than 2.5 mg kg−1 in the 10–30 cm soil layer. In contrast, at the ST and MT sites, the pHCaCl2 of 0–10 cm soil layer was ≥5.5; it was only profitable to apply G to the MT site where the soil compaction constraint had been removed by deep ripping. The use of L increases soil pHCaCl2, resulting in the improved availability of anions, phosphorus (P) in the LT and molybdenum (Mo) at all sampling times, but reduced availability of cations zinc (Zn) in the LT and manganese (Mn) at all sampling. The application of G reduced Mo concentrations, due to the high SO4–S content of the soil.
Effect of N Fertilization on the Content of Phenolic Compounds in Jerusalem Artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus L.) Tubers and Their Antioxidant Capacity
Authors: Amarowicz Ryszard , Cwalina-Ambroziak Bożena , Janiak Michał A. , Bogucka Bożena
Published: August 2020

Three cultivars of Jerusalem artichoke Albik, Rubik and Gute Gelbe were grown under different nitrogen fertilization regimens: 0, 80 and 120 kg N·ha−1. Phenolic compounds were extracted from tubers using 80% (v/v) methanol. The total phenolics were determined with the Folin–Ciocâlteu reagent and antioxidant activity was assessed using the ABTS (2,2’-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)), FRAP (ferric-reducing antioxidant power), and DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) assays. The content of individual phenolic compounds was determined by HPLC. The effect of nitrogen fertilization on the total phenolics content was observed for the Albik cultivar. In the Rubik variety the lowest content was recorded at fertilization zero, and in the Gute Gelbe variety at this fertilization level the content of phenols was the highest. At fertilization 120 kg N·ha−1, the highest ABTS test results were noted for all cultivars. For the Albik variety no effect of fertilization on the FRAP test results was noted; for the Rubik variety at zero nitrogen fertilization, the value for FRAP was the lowest, and it was the highest Gute Gelbe. The results of the DPPH test in the Gute Gelbe variety did not depend on the fertilization used. In the other two varieties, the lowest DPPH results were obtained at zero nitrogen regimen. Three main phenolic compounds were determined using HPLC. One of them was chlorogenic acid and the other two were derivatives of caffeic acid. The content of chlorogenic acid in tubers of the Gute Gelbe variety depended on nitrogen fertilization; the highest content of this compound was found in the case of fertilization zero. Statistical analysis showed a correlation between the content of phenolic compounds in tubers and their antioxidant potential. The results of this study suggest great potential for using Jerusalem artichoke tubers as a rich source of phenolic compounds with high antioxidant capacity.
Genome-Wide SNP Analysis Reveals the Population Structure and the Conservation Status of 23 Italian Chicken Breeds
Authors: Cendron Filippo , Perini Francesco , Mastrangelo Salvatore , Tolone Marco , Criscione Andrea , Bordonaro Salvatore , Iaffaldano Nicolaia , Castellini Cesare , Marzoni Margherita , Buccioni Arianna , Soglia Dominga , Schiavone Achille , Cerolini Silvia , Lasagna Emiliano , Cassandro Martino
Published: August 2020

The genomic variability of local Italian chicken breeds, which were monitored under a conservation plan, was studied using single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) to understand their genetic diversity and population structure. A total of 582 samples from 23 local breeds and four commercial stocks were genotyped using the Affymetrix 600 K Chicken SNP Array. In general, the levels of genetic diversity, investigated through different approaches, were lowest in the local chicken breeds compared to those in the commercial stocks. The level of genomic inbreeding, based on runs of homozygosity (FROH), was markedly different among the breeds and ranged from 0.121 (Valdarnese) to 0.607 (Siciliana). In all breeds, short runs of homozygosity (ROH) (<4 Mb in length) were more frequent than long segments. The patterns of genetic differentiation, model-based clustering, and neighbor networks showed that most breeds formed non-overlapping clusters and were clearly separate populations, which indicated the presence of gene flow, especially among breeds that originated from the same geographical area. Four genomic regions were identified as hotspots of autozygosity (islands) among the breeds, where the candidate genes are involved in morphological traits, such as body weight and feed conversion ratio. We conclude that the investigated breeds have conserved authentic genetic patterns, and these results can improve conservation strategies; moreover, the conservation of local breeds may play an important role in the local economy as a source of high-quality products for consumers.
Mitochondrial DNA and Neurodegeneration: Any Role for Dietary Antioxidants?
Authors: Bordoni Laura , Gabbianelli Rosita
Published: August 2020

The maintenance of the mitochondrial function is essential in preventing and counteracting neurodegeneration. In particular, mitochondria of neuronal cells play a pivotal role in sustaining the high energetic metabolism of these cells and are especially prone to oxidative damage. Since overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is involved in the pathogenesis of neurodegeneration, dietary antioxidants have been suggested to counteract the detrimental effects of ROS and to preserve the mitochondrial function, thus slowing the progression and limiting the extent of neuronal cell loss in neurodegenerative disorders. In addition to their role in the redox-system homeostasis, mitochondria are unique organelles in that they contain their own genome (mtDNA), which acts at the interface between environmental exposures and the molecular triggers of neurodegeneration. Indeed, it has been demonstrated that mtDNA (including both genetics and, from recent evidence, epigenetics) might play relevant roles in modulating the risk for neurodegenerative disorders. This mini-review describes the link between the mitochondrial genome and cellular oxidative status, with a particular focus on neurodegeneration; moreover, it provides an overview on potential beneficial effects of antioxidants in preserving mitochondrial functions through the protection of mtDNA.
3D-Printed Surgical Guide for Crown Lengthening Based on Cone Beam Computed Tomography Measurements: A Clinical Report with 6 Months Follow Up
Authors: Alhumaidan Abdulkareem , Alqahtani Ayed , al-Qarni Faisal
Published: August 2020

Excessive gingival display is a common clinical presentation that often requires surgical intervention. This report is for a patient for whom esthetic crown lengthening is indicated due to altered passive eruption. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scan and an intraoral scan were used to design and print a single surgical guide which provided a reference for both gingivectomy and osteoectomy. A satisfactory outcome was obtained 6 months after surgery. The present technique provided a simplified method of generating a surgical guide with predictable results by relying on the existing tooth anatomy rather than diagnostic waxing. This technique is particularly useful when crowns or veneers are not indicated.
A Novel Hybrid Decomposition—Ensemble Prediction Model for Dam Deformation
Authors: Cao Enhua , Bao Tengfei , Gu Chongshi , Li Hui , Liu Yongtao , Hu Shaopei
Published: August 2020

Accurate and reliable prediction of dam deformation (DD) is of great significance to the safe and stable operation of dams. In order to deal with the fluctuation characteristics in DD for more accurate prediction results, a new hybrid model based on a decomposition-ensemble model named VMD-SE-ER-PACF-ELM is proposed. First, the time series data are decomposed into subsequences with different frequencies and an error sequence (ER) by variational mode decomposition (VMD), and then the secondary decomposition method is introduced into the prediction of ER. In these two decomposition processes, the sample entropy (SE) method is innovatively utilized to determine the decomposition modulus. Then, the input variables of the subsequences are selected by partial autocorrelation analysis (PACF). Finally, the parameter-optimization-based extreme learning machine (ELM) models are used to predict the subsequences, and the outputs are reconstructed to obtain the final prediction results. The case analysis shows that the VMD-SE-ER-PACF-ELM model has strong prediction ability for DD. The model is then compared with other nonlinear and time series models, and its performance under different prediction periods is also analyzed. The results show that the proposed model is able to adequately describe the original DD. It performs well in both training and testing stages. It is a preferred data-driven model for DD prediction and can provide a priori knowledge for health monitoring of dams.
High-Efficiency All-Dielectric Metasurfaces for the Generation and Detection of Focused Optical Vortex for the Ultraviolet Domain
Authors: Zhang Ziheng , Li Tong , Jiao Xiaofei , Song Guofeng , Xu Yun
Published: August 2020

The optical vortex (OV) has drawn considerable attention owing to its tremendous advanced applications, such as optical communication, quantum entanglement, and on-chip detectors. However, traditional OV generators suffer from a bulky configuration and limited performance, especially in the ultraviolet range. In this paper, we utilize a large bandgap dielectric material, niobium pentoxide (Nb2O5), to construct ultra-thin and compact transmission-type metasurfaces to generate and detect the OV at a wavelength of 355 nm. The meta-atom, which operates as a miniature half-wave plate and demonstrates a large tolerance to fabrication error, manipulates the phase of an incident right-handed circular polarized wave with high cross-polarized conversion efficiency (around 86.9%). The phase delay of π between the orthogonal electric field component is attributed to the anti-parallel magnetic dipoles induced in the nanobar. Besides, focused vortex generation (topological charge l from 1 to 3) and multichannel detection (l from −2 to 2) are demonstrated with high efficiency, up to 79.2%. We envision that our devices of high flexibility may have potential applications in high-performance micron-scale integrated ultraviolet nanophotonics and meta-optics.
Modeling the Formation of Urea-Water Sprays from an Air-Assisted Nozzle
Authors: Frühhaber Jens , Lieber Christian , Mattes Dominik , Lauer Thomas , Koch Rainer , Bauer Hans-Jörg
Published: August 2020

Ammonia preparation from urea-water solutions is a key feature to ensure an effective reduction of nitrogen oxides in selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems. Thereby, air-assisted nozzles provide fine sprays, which enhance ammonia homogenization. In the present study, a methodology was developed to model the spray formation by means of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) for this type of atomizer. Experimental validation data was generated in an optically accessible hot gas test bench using a shadowgraphy setup providing droplet velocities and size distributions at designated positions inside the duct. An adaption of the turbulence model was performed in order to correct the dispersion of the turbulent gas jet. The spray modeling in the near nozzle region is based on an experimentally determined droplet spectrum in combination with the WAVE breakup model. This methodology was applied due to the fact that the emerging two-phase flow will immediately disintegrate into a fine spray downstream the nozzle exit, which is also known from cavitating diesel nozzles. The suitability of this approach was validated against the radial velocity and droplet size distributions at the first measurement position downstream the nozzle. In addition, the simulation results serve as a basis for the investigation of turbulent dispersion phenomena and evaporation inside the spray.
The Distribution of Aircraft Icing Accretion in China—Preliminary Study
Authors: Wang Jinhu , Xie Binze , Cai Jiahan
Published: August 2020

The icing environment is an important threat to aircraft flight safety. In this work, the icing index is calculated using linear interpolation and based on temperature and relative humidity (RH) curves obtained from radiosonde observations in China. The results show that: (1) there are obvious differences in icing index distribution in parameter over various climatic regions of China. The differences are reflected in duration, main altitude, and ice intensity. The reason for the differences is related to the temperature and humidity environment. (2) Before and after the summer rainfall process, there are obvious changes in the ice accretion index in the 4–6 km altitude area of Northeast China, and the areas with serious ice accretion are coincident with areas with large rainfall estimates. (3) In the process of snowfall in winter, the ground snow has an impact on the ice accumulation index in the east of China. When it is snowing, ice accumulation in low altitudes is serious. The results of this study offer a theoretical basis for prediction and early warning of aircraft icing.
The Summer Surface Energy Budget of the Ice-Free Area of Northern James Ross Island and Its Impact on the Ground Thermal Regime
Authors: Ambrožová Klára , Hrbáček Filip , Láska Kamil
Published: August 2020

Despite the key role of the surface energy budget in the global climate system, such investigations are rare in Antarctica. In this study, the surface energy budget measurements from the largest ice-free area on northern James Ross Island, in Antarctica, were obtained. The components of net radiation were measured by a net radiometer, while sensible heat flux was measured by a sonic anemometer and ground heat flux by heat flux plates. The surface energy budget was compared with the rest of the Antarctic Peninsula Region and selected places in the Arctic and the impact of surface energy budget components on the ground thermal regime was examined. Mean net radiation on James Ross Island during January–March 2018 reached 102.5 W m−2. The main surface energy budget component was the latent heat flux, while the sensible heat flux values were only 0.4 W m−2 lower. Mean ground heat flux was only 0.4 Wm-2, however, it was negative in 47% of January–March 2018, while it was positive in the rest of the time. The ground thermal regime was affected by surface energy budget components to a depth of 50 cm. The strongest relationship was found between ground heat flux and ground surface temperature. Further analysis confirmed that active layer refroze after a sequence of three days with negative ground heat flux even in summer months. Daily mean net radiation and ground heat flux were significantly reduced when cloud amount increased, while the influence of snow cover on ground surface temperature was negligible.
A 3D Tissue Model of Traumatic Brain Injury with Excitotoxicity That Is Inhibited by Chronic Exposure to Gabapentinoids
Authors: Rouleau Nicolas , Bonzanni Mattia , Erndt-Marino Joshua D. , Sievert Katja , Ramirez Camila G. , Rusk William , Levin Michael , Kaplan David L.
Published: August 2020

Injury progression associated with cerebral laceration is insidious. Following the initial trauma, brain tissues become hyperexcitable, begetting further damage that compounds the initial impact over time. Clinicians have adopted several strategies to mitigate the effects of secondary brain injury; however, higher throughput screening tools with modular flexibility are needed to expedite mechanistic studies and drug discovery that will contribute to the enhanced protection, repair, and even the regeneration of neural tissues. Here we present a novel bioengineered cortical brain model of traumatic brain injury (TBI) that displays characteristics of primary and secondary injury, including an outwardly radiating cell death phenotype and increased glutamate release with excitotoxic features. DNA content and tissue function were normalized by high-concentration, chronic administrations of gabapentinoids. Additional experiments suggested that the treatment effects were likely neuroprotective rather than regenerative, as evidenced by the drug-mediated decreases in cell excitability and an absence of drug-induced proliferation. We conclude that the present model of traumatic brain injury demonstrates validity and can serve as a customizable experimental platform to assess the individual contribution of cell types on TBI progression, as well as to screen anti-excitotoxic and pro-regenerative compounds.
Integrated Cost-Analysis Approach for Seismic and Thermal Improvement of Masonry Building Façades
Authors: Giresini Linda , Paone Simona , Sassu Mauro
Published: August 2020

The combination of structural and thermal efficiency is a new frontier in civil engineering. Indeed, the retrofitting strategies should optimize costs and technical solutions from these two points of view. If a technical solution is able to provide an improvement of both structural and energetic behavior, then the utility of the intervention can better justify the economic investment. In this paper, a meso-scale approach (i.e., façade-scale) for integrated interventions applied on masonry façades is proposed. The structural performance of the façade is evaluated by considering base shear and ductility of the structural element through non-linear static analyses. Moreover, the thermal indicator, that is the thermal transmittance, is computed with a simplified approach in terms of an equivalent wall, taking into account the role of the windows and doors of the façade. As proof of concept, the procedure is applied to a façade of an existing masonry building. Economic and environmental iso-cost curves are obtained to tune the interventions conceived for a real case study, analyzing the benefit offered by different retrofitting solutions.
Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in pMMR Metastatic Colorectal Cancer: A Tough Challenge
Authors: Marmorino Federica , Boccaccino Alessandra , Germani Marco Maria , Falcone Alfredo , Cremolini Chiara
Published: August 2020

The introduction of checkpoint inhibitors provided remarkable achievements in several solid tumors but only 5% of metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) patients, i.e., those with bearing microsatellite instable (MSI-high)/deficient DNA mismatch repair (dMMR) tumors, benefit from this approach. The favorable effect of immunotherapy in these patients has been postulated to be due to an increase in neoantigens due to their higher somatic mutational load, also associated with an abundant infiltration of immune cells in tumor microenvironment (TME). While in patients with dMMR tumors checkpoint inhibitors allow achieving durable response with dramatic survival improvement, current results in patients with microsatellite stable (MSS or MSI-low)/proficient DNA mismatch repair (pMMR) tumors are disappointing. These tumors show low mutational load and absence of “immune-competent” TME, and are intrinsically resistant to immune checkpoint inhibitors. Modifying the interplay among cancer cells, TME and host immune system is the aim of multiple lines of research in order to enhance the immunogenicity of pMMR mCRC, and exploit immunotherapy also in this field. Here, we focus on the rationale behind ongoing clinical trials aiming at extending the efficacy of immunotherapy beyond the MSI-high/dMMR subgroup with particular regard to academic no-profit studies.
C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Levels in Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Response and Progression in Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: A Bi-Center Study
Authors: Riedl Jakob M. , Barth Dominik A. , Brueckl Wolfgang M. , Zeitler Gloria , Foris Vasile , Mollnar Stefanie , Stotz Michael , Rossmann Christopher H. , Terbuch Angelika , Balic Marija , Niedrist Tobias , Bertsch Thomas , Stoeger Herbert , Pichler Martin , Olschewski Horst , Absenger Gudrun , Ficker Joachim H. , Gerger Armin , Posch Florian
Published: August 2020

Background: Biomarkers for predicting response to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) are scarce and often lack external validation. This study provides a comprehensive investigation of pretreatment C-reactive protein (CRP) levels as well as its longitudinal trajectories as a marker of treatment response and disease outcome in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) undergoing immunotherapy with anti PD-1 or anti PD-L1 agents. Methods: We performed a retrospective bi-center study to assess the association between baseline CRP levels and anti PD-(L)1 treatment outcomes in the discovery cohort (n = 90), confirm these findings in an external validation cohort (n = 101) and explore the longitudinal evolution of CRP during anti PD-(L)1 treatment and the potential impact of dynamic CRP changes on treatment response and disease outcome in the discovery cohort. Joint models were implemented to evaluate the association of longitudinal CRP trajectories and progression risk. Primary treatment outcomes were progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS), while the objective response rate (ORR) was a secondary outcome, respectively. Results: In the discovery cohort, elevated pretreatment CRP levels emerged as independent predictors of worse PFS (HR per doubling of baseline CRP = 1.37, 95% CI: 1.16–1.63, p < 0.0001), worse OS (HR per doubling of baseline CRP = 1.42, 95% CI: 1.18–1.71, p < 0.0001) and a lower ORR ((odds ratio (OR) of ORR per doubling of baseline CRP = 0.68, 95% CI: 0.51–0.92, p = 0.013)). In the validation cohort, pretreatment CRP could be fully confirmed as a predictor of PFS and OS, but not ORR. Elevated trajectories of CRP during anti PD-(L)1 treatment (adjusted HR per 10 mg/L increase in CRP = 1.22, 95% CI: 1.15–1.30, p < 0.0001), as well as a faster increases of CRP over time (HR per 10 mg/L/month faster increase in CRP levels = 13.26, 95% CI: 1.14–154.54, p = 0.039) were strong predictors of an elevated progression risk, whereas an early decline of CRP was significantly associated with a reduction in PFS risk (HR = 0.91, 95% CI: 0.83–0.99, p = 0.036), respectively. Conclusion: These findings support the concept that CRP should be further explored by future prospective studies as a simple non-invasive biomarker for assessing treatment benefit during anti PD-(L)1 treatment in advanced NSCLC.
Prevalence of Recurrent Mutations Predisposing to Breast Cancer in Early-Onset Breast Cancer Patients from Poland
Authors: Rogoża-Janiszewska Emilia , Malińska Karolina , Cybulski Cezary , Jakubowska Anna , Gronwald Jacek , Huzarski Tomasz , Lener Marcin , Górski Bohdan , Kluźniak Wojciech , Rudnicka Helena , Akbari Mohammad , Kashyap Aniruddh , Narod Steven , Lubiński Jan , Dębniak Tadeusz , on behalf of the Polish Hereditary Breast Cancer Consortium
Published: August 2020

There are twenty recurrent mutations in six breast-cancer-predisposing genes in Poland (BRCA1, BRCA2, CHEK2, PALB2, NBN, and RECQL). The frequencies of the twenty alleles have not been measured in a large series of early-onset breast cancer patients from Poland unselected for family history. We genotyped 2464 women with breast cancer diagnosed below age 41 years for twenty recurrent germline mutations in six genes, including BRCA1, BRCA2 CHEK2, PALB2, NBN, and RECQL. A mutation in one of the six genes was identified in 419 of the 2464 early-onset breast cancer cases (17%), including 22.4% of those cases diagnosed below age 31. The mutation frequency was 18.8% for familial breast cancer cases and 6% for non-familial cases. Among women with breast cancer below age 31, the mutation frequency was 23.6% for familial cases and 17.4% in non-familial cases. The majority of mutations (76.2%) were seen in BRCA1 and BRCA2. In Poland, a panel of twenty recurrent mutations in six genes can identify a genetic basis for a high percentage of early-onset cases and testing is recommended for all women with breast cancer at age 40 or below.