bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comments on Hynes et al. Prevalence of Marijuana Use among University Students in Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12, 5233–5240
Authors: Martinez-Novack Maria , Ortiz-Ortiz Maria , Castañeda-Carbajal Bruno , Alvarado German
Published: September 2015

We have read and analyzed the article entitled “Prevalence of marijuana use among university students in Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru”. We propose some objective points which could enhance the internal validity of the study (i.e., we suggest to report participation proportions).
Response to Martinez-Novack et al. Comments on Hynes et al. Prevalence of Marijuana Use among University Students in Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health, 2015, 12, 5233-5240
Authors: Hynes Marya , Demarco Maria , Araneda Juan , Cumsille Francisco
Published: September 2015

We have read with great interest the Comments related to the article entitled “Prevalence of marijuana use among university 20 students in Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru” and appreciate the readers’ feedback [1]. [...]
Bioactive Carbohydrates and Peptides in Foods: An Overview of Sources, Downstream Processing Steps and Associated Bioactivities
Authors: Hayes Maria , Tiwari Brijesh
Published: September 2015

Bioactive peptides and carbohydrates are sourced from a myriad of plant, animal and insects and have huge potential for use as food ingredients and pharmaceuticals. However, downstream processing bottlenecks hinder the potential use of these natural bioactive compounds and add cost to production processes. This review discusses the health benefits and bioactivities associated with peptides and carbohydrates of natural origin and downstream processing methodologies and novel processes which may be used to overcome these.
Mitochondrial Optic Atrophy (OPA) 1 Processing Is Altered in Response to Neonatal Hypoxic-Ischemic Brain Injury
Authors: Baburamani Ana , Hurling Chloe , Stolp Helen , Sobotka Kristina , Gressens Pierre , Hagberg Henrik , Thornton Claire
Published: September 2015

Perturbation of mitochondrial function and subsequent induction of cell death pathways are key hallmarks in neonatal hypoxic-ischemic (HI) injury, both in animal models and in term infants. Mitoprotective therapies therefore offer a new avenue for intervention for the babies who suffer life-long disabilities as a result of birth asphyxia. Here we show that after oxygen-glucose deprivation in primary neurons or in a mouse model of HI, mitochondrial protein homeostasis is altered, manifesting as a change in mitochondrial morphology and functional impairment. Furthermore we find that the mitochondrial fusion and cristae regulatory protein, OPA1, is aberrantly cleaved to shorter forms. OPA1 cleavage is normally regulated by a balanced action of the proteases Yme1L and Oma1. However, in primary neurons or after HI in vivo, protein expression of YmelL is also reduced, whereas no change is observed in Oma1 expression. Our data strongly suggest that alterations in mitochondria-shaping proteins are an early event in the pathogenesis of neonatal HI injury.
The Role of HMGB1 Signaling Pathway in the Development and Progression of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Review
Authors: Wang Xuanbin , Xiang Longchao , Li Hongliang , Chen Ping , Feng Yibin , Zhang Jingxuan , Yang Nian , Li Fei , Wang Ye , Zhang Quifang , Li Fang , Cao Fengjun
Published: September 2015

The story of high mobility group protein B1 (HMGB1) in cancer is complicated and the function of HMGB1 in different cancers is uncertain. This review aims to retrieve literature regarding HMGB1 from English electronic resources, analyze and summarize the role of the HMGB1 signaling pathway in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and provide useful information for carcinogenesis and progression of HCC. Results showed that HMGB1 could induce cell proliferation, differentiation, cell death, angiogenesis, metastasis, inflammation, and enhance immunofunction in in vitro and in vivo HCC models. HMGB1 and its downstream receptors RAGE, TLRs and TREM-1 may be potential anticancer targets. In conclusion, HMGB1 plays an important role in oncogenesis and represents a novel therapeutic target, which deserves further study.
Identification and Evaluation of 21 Novel Microsatellite Markers from the Autumnal Moth (Epirrita autumnata) (Lepidoptera: Geometridae)
Authors: Aarnes Siv , Fløystad Ida , Schregel Julia , Vindstad Ole , Jepsen Jane , Eiken Hans , Ims Rolf , Hagen Snorre
Published: September 2015

The autumnal moth (Epirrita autumnata) is a cyclically outbreaking forest Lepidoptera with circumpolar distribution and substantial impact on Northern ecosystems. We have isolated 21 microsatellites from the species to facilitate population genetic studies of population cycles, outbreaks, and crashes. First, PCR primers and PCR conditions were developed to amplify 19 trinucleotide loci and two tetranucleotide loci in six multiplex PCR approaches and then analyzed for species specificity, sensitivity and precision. Twelve of the loci showed simple tandem repeat array structures while nine loci showed imperfect repeat structures, and repeat numbers varied in our material between six and 15. The application in population genetics for all the 21 microsatellites were further validated in 48 autumnal moths sampled from Northern Norway, and allelic variation was detected in 19 loci. The detected numbers of alleles per locus ranged from two to 13, and the observed and expected heterozygosities varied from 0.04 to 0.69 and 0.04 to 0.79, respectively. Evidence for linkage disequilibrium was found for six loci as well as indication of one null allele. We find that these novel microsatellites and their multiplex-PCR assays are suitable for further research on fine- and large-scale population-genetic studies of Epirrita autumnata.
Attenuation of Combined Nickel(II) Oxide and Manganese(II, III) Oxide Nanoparticles’ Adverse Effects with a Complex of Bioprotectors
Authors: Minigalieva Ilzira , Katsnelson Boris , Privalova Larisa , Sutunkova Marina , Gurvich Vladimir , Shur Vladimir , Shishkina Ekaterina , Valamina Irene , Makeyev Oleg , Panov Vladimir , Varaksin Anatoly , Grigoryeva Ekaterina , Meshtcheryakova Ekaterina
Published: September 2015

Stable suspensions of NiO and Mn3O4 nanoparticles (NPs) with a mean (±s.d.) diameter of 16.7 ± 8.2 and 18.4 ± 5.4 nm, respectively, purposefully prepared by laser ablation of 99.99% pure nickel or manganese in de-ionized water, were repeatedly injected intraperitoneally (IP) to rats at a dose of 2.5 mg/kg 3 times a week up to 18 injections, either alone or in combination. A group of rats was injected with this combination with the background oral administration of a “bio-protective complex” (BPC) comprising pectin, vitamins A, C, E, glutamate, glycine, N-acetylcysteine, selenium, iodide and omega-3 PUFA, this composition having been chosen based on mechanistic considerations and previous experience. After the termination of injections, many functional and biochemical indices and histopathological features (with morphometric assessment) of the liver, spleen, kidneys and brain were evaluated for signs of toxicity. The Ni and Mn content of these organs was measured with the help of the atomic emission and electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopies. We obtained blood leukocytes for performing the RAPD (Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA) test. Although both metallic NPs proved adversely bio-active in many respects considered in this study, Mn3O4-NPs were somewhat more noxious than NiO-NPs as concerns most of the non-specific toxicity manifestations and they induced more marked damage to neurons in the striatum and the hippocampus, which may be considered an experimental correlate of the manganese-induced Parkinsonism. The comparative solubility of the Mn3O4-NPs and NiO-NPs in a biological medium is discussed as one of the factors underlying the difference in their toxicokinetics and toxicities. The BPC has attenuated both the organ-systemic toxicity and the genotoxicity of Mn3O4-NPs in combination with NiO-NPs.
Influence of Ultrafine 2CaO·SiO2 Powder on Hydration Properties of Reactive Powder Concrete
Authors: Sun Hongfang , Li Zishanshan , Memon Shazim , Zhang Qiwu , Wang Yaocheng , Liu Bing , Xu Weiting , Xing Feng
Published: September 2015

In this research, we assessed the influence of an ultrafine 2CaO·SiO2 powder on the hydration properties of a reactive powder concrete system. The ultrafine powder was manufactured through chemical combustion method. The morphology of ultrafine powder and the development of hydration products in the cement paste prepared with ultrafine powder were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), mineralogical composition were determined by X-ray diffraction, while the heat release characteristics up to the age of 3 days were investigated by calorimetry. Moreover, the properties of cementitious system in fresh and hardened state (setting time, drying shrinkage, and compressive strength) with 5% ordinary Portland cement replaced by ultrafine powder were evaluated. From SEM micrographs, the particle size of ultrafine powder was found to be up to several hundred nanometers. The hydration product started formulating at the age of 3 days due to slow reacting nature of belitic 2CaO·SiO2. The initial and final setting times were prolonged and no significant difference in drying shrinkage was observed when 5% ordinary Portland cement was replaced by ultrafine powder. Moreover, in comparison to control reactive powder concrete, the reactive powder concrete containing ultrafine powder showed improvement in compressive strength at and above 7 days of testing. Based on above, it can be concluded that the manufactured ultrafine 2CaO·SiO2 powder has the potential to improve the performance of a reactive powder cementitious system.
Aspherical Lens Design Using Genetic Algorithm for Reducing Aberrations in Multifocal Artificial Intraocular Lens
Authors: Yen Chih-Ta , Jin Shih-Cyuan
Published: September 2015

A complex intraocular lens (IOL) design involving numerous uncertain variables is proposed. We integrated a genetic algorithm (GA) with the commercial optical design software of (CODE V) to design a multifocal IOL for the human eye. We mainly used an aspherical lens in the initial state to the crystalline type; therefore, we used the internal human eye model in the software. The proposed optimized algorithm employs a GA method for optimally simulating the focusing function of the human eye; in this method, the thickness and curvature of the anterior lens and the posterior part of the IOL were varied. A comparison of the proposed GA-designed IOLs and those designed using a CODE V built-in optimal algorithm for 550 degrees myopia and 175 degrees astigmatism conditions of the human eye for pupil size 6 mm showed that the proposed IOL design improved the spot size of root mean square (RMS), tangential coma (TCO) and modulation transfer function (MTF) at a spatial frequency of 30 with a pupil size of 6 mm by approximately 17%, 43% and 35%, respectively. However, the worst performance of spherical aberration (SA) was lower than 46%, because the optical design involves a tradeoff between all aberrations. Compared with the traditional CODE V built-in optimal scheme, the proposed IOL design can efficiently improve the critical parameters, namely TCO, RMS, and MTF.
Characterization of Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Resistance Spot Welded DP600 Steel
Authors: Ramazani Ali , Mukherjee Krishnendu , Abdurakhmanov Aydemir , Abbasi Mahmoud , Prahl Ulrich
Published: September 2015

Resistance spot welding (RSW) as a predominant welding technique used for joining steels in automotive applications needs to be studied carefully in order to improve the mechanical properties of the spot welds. The objectives of the present work are to characterize the resistance spot weldment of DP600 sheet steels. The mechanical properties of the welded joints were evaluated using tensile-shear and cross-tensile tests. The time-temperature evolution during the welding cycle was measured. The microstructures observed in different sites of the welds were correlated to thermal history recorded by thermocouples in the corresponding areas. It was found that cracks initiated in the periphery region of weld nuggets with a martensitic microstructure and a pull-out failure mode was observed. It was also concluded that tempering during RSW was the main reason for hardness decrease in HAZ.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Resveratrol Derivatives as Melanogenesis Inhibitors
Authors: Liu Qing , Kim CheongTaek , Jo Yang , Kim Seon , Hwang Bang , Lee Mi
Published: September 2015

Resveratrol (1), a naturally occurring stilbene compound, has been suggested as a potential whitening agent with strong inhibitory activity on melanin synthesis. However, the use of resveratrol in cosmetics has been limited due to its chemical instability and poor bioavailability. Therefore, resveratrol derivatives were prepared to improve bioavailability and anti-melanogenesis activity. Nine resveratrol derivatives including five alkyl ether derivatives with C2H5, C4H9, C5H11, C6H13, and C8H17 (2a–2e) and four ester derivatives with CH3, CH=C(CH3)2, CH(C2H5)C4H9, C7H15 (3a–3d) were newly synthesized and their effect on melanin synthesis were assessed. All the synthetic derivatives efficiently reduced the melanin content in α-MSH stimulated B16F10 melanoma cells. Further investigation showed that the inhibitory effect of 2a on melanin synthesis was achieved not by the inhibition of tyrosinase activity but by the inhibition of melanogenic enzyme expressions such as tyrosinase and tyrosinase-related protein (TRP)-1. Our synthetic resveratrol derivatives have more lipophilic properties than resveratrol by the addition of alkyl or acyl chains to free hydroxyl moiety of resveratrol; thus, they are expected to show better bioavailability in skin application. Therefore, we suggest that our synthetic resveratrol derivatives might be promising candidates for better practical application to skin-whitening cosmetics.
Synthesis and Biological Activity of Isoflavone Derivatives from Chickpea as Potent Anti-Diabetic Agents
Authors: Li Pengshou , Shi Xiaojuan , Wei Ying , Qin Lingling , Sun Wen , Xu Guangyuan , Xu Tunhai , Liu Tonghua
Published: September 2015

A set of novel isoflavone derivatives from chickpea were synthesized. The structures of derivatives were identified by proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR), carbon-13 (13C)-NMR and mass spectrometry (MS) spectral analyses. Their anti-diabetic activities were evaluated using an insulin-resistant (IR) HepG2 cell model. Additionally, the structure-activity relationships of these derivatives were briefly discussed. Compounds 1c, 2h, 3b, and 5 and genistein exhibited significant glucose consumption-enhancing effects in IR-HepG2 cells. In addition, the combinations of genistein, 2h, and 3b (combination 6) and of 3b, genistein, and 1c (combination 10) exhibited better anti-diabetic activity than the individual compounds. At the same dosage, there was no difference in effect between the combination 10 and the positive control (p > 0.05). Aditionally, we found the differences between the combination 10 and combination 6 for the protective effect of HUVEC (human umbilical vein endothelial cells) under high glucose concentration. The protective effects of combination 10 was stronger than combination 6, which suggested that combination 10 may have a better hypoglycemic activity in future studies. This study provides useful clues for the further design and discovery of anti-diabetic agents.
Antibacterial and Anti-Quorum Sensing Molecular Composition Derived from Quercus cortex (Oak bark) Extract
Authors: Deryabin Dmitry , Tolmacheva Anna
Published: September 2015

Quercus cortex (Oak bark) has been used in European folk medicine since medieval times for treatment of diarrhea, stomatitis, pharyngitis and skin inflammations. Its antimicrobial activity is a well-known therapeutic property of oak bark, and its novel anti-quorum sensing (QS) ability has also been described recently. In this study, we examined the bioactive compounds of Quercus cortex extract and compared their direct antibacterial and regulatory anti-QS effects against Chromobacterium violaceum CV026 in a biotest. Evaluation of the original Quercus cortex extract showed weak antibacterial and prominent anti-QS activities that were retained and completely restored when the samples were dried and re-hydrated. The one-step liquid chromatography result indicated that the anti-QS activity might be determined by hydrophobic compounds; however, the subsequent reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography led to dissipation and loss of the activity. The gas chromatography–mass spectrometry gave excellent resolution between a majority of the compounds. Based on this result, 10 of the 35 identified small molecules were selected for further screening. The subsequent investigation indicated several compounds determined both the antibacterial and anti-QS activities of the Quercus cortex extract. Direct antibacterial activity was shown for 1,2,3-benzenetriol and 4-propyl-1,3-benzenediol, while sub-inhibitory concentrations of these compounds led to anti-QS effects. Five compounds: 4-(3-hydroxy-1-propenyl)-2-methoxy-phenol; 3,4,5-trimethoxyphenol; 4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzaldehyde; 7-hydroxy-6-methoxy-2H-1-benzopyran-2-one and 2H-1-benzopyran-2-one were characterized as QS inhibitors independent of any effect on bacterial growth. Biologically relevant concentrations of each single component showed weak activity only while reconstruction of the small molecule composition derived from the Quercus cortex extract provided comparable complementary activity against C. violaceum CV026 in the biotest as the crude extract.
Food Processing and the Mediterranean Diet
Authors: Hoffman Richard , Gerber Mariette
Published: September 2015

The benefits of the Mediterranean diet (MD) for protecting against chronic disorders such as cardiovascular disease are usually attributed to high consumption of certain food groups such as vegetables, and low consumption of other food groups such as meat. The influence of food processing techniques such as food preparation and cooking on the nutrient composition and nutritional value of these foods is not generally taken into consideration. In this narrative review, we consider the mechanistic and epidemiological evidence that food processing influences phytochemicals in selected food groups in the MD (olives, olive oil, vegetables and nuts), and that this influences the protective effects of these foods against chronic diseases associated with inflammation. We also examine how the pro-inflammatory properties of meat consumption can be modified by Mediterranean cuisine. We conclude by discussing whether food processing should be given greater consideration, both when recommending a MD to the consumer and when evaluating its health properties.
Phytosterols, Phytostanols, and Lipoprotein Metabolism
Authors: Gylling Helena , Simonen Piia
Published: September 2015

The efficacy of phytosterols and phytostanols added to foods and food supplements to obtain significant non-pharmacologic serum and low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol reduction is well documented. Irrespective of age, gender, ethnic background, body weight, background diet, or the cause of hypercholesterolemia and, even added to statin treatment, phytosterols and phytostanols at 2 g/day significantly lower LDL cholesterol concentration by 8%–10%. They do not affect the concentrations of high density lipoprotein cholesterol, lipoprotein (a) or serum proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9. In some studies, phytosterols and phytostanols have modestly reduced serum triglyceride levels especially in subjects with slightly increased baseline concentrations. Phytosterols and phytostanols lower LDL cholesterol by displacing cholesterol from mixed micelles in the small intestine so that cholesterol absorption is partially inhibited. Cholesterol absorption and synthesis have been carefully evaluated during phytosterol and phytostanol supplementation. However, only a few lipoprotein kinetic studies have been performed, and they revealed that LDL apoprotein B-100 transport rate was reduced. LDL particle size was unchanged, but small dense LDL cholesterol concentration was reduced. In subjects with metabolic syndrome and moderate hypertriglyceridemia, phytostanols reduced not only non- high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol concentration but also serum triglycerides by 27%, and reduced the large and medium size very low density lipoprotein particle concentrations. In the few postprandial studies, the postprandial lipoproteins were reduced, but detailed studies with apoprotein B-48 are lacking. In conclusion, more kinetic studies are required to obtain a more complete understanding of the fasting and postprandial lipoprotein metabolism caused by phytosterols and phytostanols. It seems obvious, however, that the most atherogenic lipoprotein particles will be diminished.
Association between Dietary Patterns and the Indicators of Obesity among Chinese: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Shu Long , Zheng Pei-Fen , Zhang Xiao-Yan , Si Cai-Juan , Yu Xiao-Long , Gao Wei , Zhang Lun , Liao Dan
Published: September 2015

No previous study has investigated dietary pattern in association with obesity risk in a middle-aged Chinese population. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the associations between dietary patterns and the risk of obesity in the city of Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang Province, east China. In this cross-sectional study of 2560 subjects aged 45–60 years, dietary intakes were evaluated using a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). All anthropometric measurements were obtained using standardized procedures. The partial correlation analysis was performed to assess the associations between dietary patterns and body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), and waist to hip ratio (WHR). Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to examine the associations between dietary patterns and obesity, with adjustment for potential confounders. Four major dietary patterns were extracted by means of factor analysis: animal food, traditional Chinese, western fast-food, and high-salt patterns. The animal food pattern was positively associated with BMI (r = 0.082, 0.144, respectively, p < 0.05) and WC (r = 0.102, 0.132, respectively, p < 0.01), and the traditional Chinese pattern was inversely associated with BMI (r = −0.047, −0.116, respectively, p < 0.05) and WC (r = −0.067, −0.113, respectively, p < 0.05) in both genders. After controlling for potential confounders, subjects in the highest quartile of animal food pattern scores had a greater odds ratio for abdominal obesity (odds ratio (OR) = 1.67; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.188–2.340; p < 0.01), in comparison to those from the lowest quartile. Compared with the lowest quartile of the traditional Chinese pattern, the highest quartile had a lower odds ratio for abdominal obesity (OR = 0.63; 95% CI: 0.441–0.901, p < 0.05). Conclusions: Our findings indicated that the animal food pattern was associated with a higher risk of abdominal obesity, while the traditional Chinese pattern was associated with a lower risk of abdominal obesity. Further prospective studies are warranted to confirm these findings.
On the Use of Quantum Chemistry for the Determination of Propagation, Copolymerization, and Secondary Reaction Kinetics in Free Radical Polymerization
Authors: Mavroudakis Evangelos , Cuccato Danilo , Moscatelli Davide
Published: September 2015

Throughout the last 25 years, computational chemistry based on quantum mechanics has been applied to the investigation of reaction kinetics in free radical polymerization (FRP) with growing interest. Nowadays, quantum chemistry (QC) can be considered a powerful and cost-effective tool for the kinetic characterization of many individual reactions in FRP, especially those that cannot yet be fully analyzed through experiments. The recent focus on copolymers and systems where secondary reactions play a major role has emphasized this feature due to the increased complexity of these kinetic schemes. QC calculations are well-suited to support and guide the experimental investigation of FRP kinetics as well as to deepen the understanding of polymerization mechanisms. This paper is intended to provide an overview of the most relevant QC results obtained so far from the investigation of FRP. A comparison between computational results and experimental data is given, whenever possible, to emphasize the performances of the two approaches in the prediction of kinetic data. This work provides a comprehensive database of reaction rate parameters of FRP to assist in the development of advanced models of polymerization and experimental studies on the topic.
Novel Kalman Filter Algorithm for Statistical Monitoring of Extensive Landscapes with Synoptic Sensor Data
Authors: Czaplewski Raymond
Published: September 2015

Wall-to-wall remotely sensed data are increasingly available to monitor landscape dynamics over large geographic areas. However, statistical monitoring programs that use post-stratification cannot fully utilize those sensor data. The Kalman filter (KF) is an alternative statistical estimator. I develop a new KF algorithm that is numerically robust with large numbers of study variables and auxiliary sensor variables. A National Forest Inventory (NFI) illustrates application within an official statistics program. Practical recommendations regarding remote sensing and statistical issues are offered. This algorithm has the potential to increase the value of synoptic sensor data for statistical monitoring of large geographic areas.
Automatic Spiral Analysis for Objective Assessment of Motor Symptoms in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Memedi Mevludin , Sadikov Aleksander , Groznik Vida , Žabkar Jure , Možina Martin , Bergquist Filip , Johansson Anders , Haubenberger Dietrich , Nyholm Dag
Published: September 2015

A challenge for the clinical management of advanced Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients is the emergence of fluctuations in motor performance, which represents a significant source of disability during activities of daily living of the patients. There is a lack of objective measurement of treatment effects for in-clinic and at-home use that can provide an overview of the treatment response. The objective of this paper was to develop a method for objective quantification of advanced PD motor symptoms related to off episodes and peak dose dyskinesia, using spiral data gathered by a touch screen telemetry device. More specifically, the aim was to objectively characterize motor symptoms (bradykinesia and dyskinesia), to help in automating the process of visual interpretation of movement anomalies in spirals as rated by movement disorder specialists. Digitized upper limb movement data of 65 advanced PD patients and 10 healthy (HE) subjects were recorded as they performed spiral drawing tasks on a touch screen device in their home environment settings. Several spatiotemporal features were extracted from the time series and used as inputs to machine learning methods. The methods were validated against ratings on animated spirals scored by four movement disorder specialists who visually assessed a set of kinematic features and the motor symptom. The ability of the method to discriminate between PD patients and HE subjects and the test-retest reliability of the computed scores were also evaluated. Computed scores correlated well with mean visual ratings of individual kinematic features. The best performing classifier (Multilayer Perceptron) classified the motor symptom (bradykinesia or dyskinesia) with an accuracy of 84% and area under the receiver operating characteristics curve of 0.86 in relation to visual classifications of the raters. In addition, the method provided high discriminating power when distinguishing between PD patients and HE subjects as well as had good test-retest reliability. This study demonstrated the potential of using digital spiral analysis for objective quantification of PD-specific and/or treatment-induced motor symptoms.
Teen Childbearing and Economics: A Short History of a 25-Year Research Love Affair
Authors: Hoffman Saul
Published: September 2015

Despite its apparent distance from the core topics of economics, economists have been attracted to, and deeply engaged in, research about teen fertility for more than a quarter century. Research has focused on two broad, interrelated issues: the socio-economic consequences of a teen birth and the socio-economic causes of a teen birth. In researching these issues, economists have drawn on and extended basic concepts in economic theory and in applied statistical research. I review those literatures for a non-economist audience and conclude that the research love affair has substantially benefited both parties, although definitive answers to causes and consequences are still elusive.
Hierarchical and Non-Hierarchical Linear and Non-Linear Clustering Methods to “Shakespeare Authorship Question”
Authors: Aljumily Refat
Published: September 2015

A few literary scholars have long claimed that Shakespeare did not write some of his best plays (history plays and tragedies) and proposed at one time or another various suspect authorship candidates. Most modern-day scholars of Shakespeare have rejected this claim, arguing that strong evidence that Shakespeare wrote the plays and poems being his name appears on them as the author. This has caused and led to an ongoing scholarly academic debate for quite some long time. Stylometry is a fast-growing field often used to attribute authorship to anonymous or disputed texts. Stylometric attempts to resolve this literary puzzle have raised interesting questions over the past few years. The following paper contributes to “the Shakespeare authorship question” by using a mathematically-based methodology to examine the hypothesis that Shakespeare wrote all the disputed plays traditionally attributed to him. More specifically, the mathematically based methodology used here is based on Mean Proximity, as a linear hierarchical clustering method, and on Principal Components Analysis, as a non-hierarchical linear clustering method. It is also based, for the first time in the domain, on Self-Organizing Map U-Matrix and Voronoi Map, as non-linear clustering methods to cover the possibility that our data contains significant non-linearities. Vector Space Model (VSM) is used to convert texts into vectors in a high dimensional space. The aim of which is to compare the degrees of similarity within and between limited samples of text (the disputed plays). The various works and plays assumed to have been written by Shakespeare and possible authors notably, Sir Francis Bacon, Christopher Marlowe, John Fletcher, and Thomas Kyd, where “similarity” is defined in terms of correlation/distance coefficient measure based on the frequency of usage profiles of function words, word bi-grams, and character triple-grams. The claim that Shakespeare authored all the disputed plays traditionally attributed to him is falsified in favor of the alternative authors according to the stylistic criteria and analytic methodology used. The result of this validated analysis is empirically-based, objective, and involves replicable evidence which can be used in conjunction with existing arguments to resolve the question of whether or not Shakespeare of Stratford-upon-Avon wrote all the disputed plays traditionally attributed to him.
The Resurgence of Education in Railway and Metro Engineering in Brazil
Authors: Asaff Yesid , Grubisic Viviane , Scalice Regis , Dias Acires
Published: September 2015

In this paper, an overview of the history of education in railway and metro engineering in Brazil is presented, including its beginnings, its apogee, its near extinction, and its return at the beginning of the 21st century. The trajectory of the Brazilian professional education began with the implementation of small railway workshops located along the railway which were outside of the regular education system. At the end of the 20th century, the economic crisis, privatization, and drastic reduction of investment led to the scrapping and almost eradicating of the Brazilian rail network, followed by the death of railway education in Brazil. In recent years, the railway industry was stimulated, giving way to large investments, impacting and creating new opportunities for development in Brazil. This was one of the fundamental aspects for the development of new professional higher education programs in the railway and metro sector in Brazil. The first project to be implemented in Brazil was the course on railway and metro engineering of the Federal University of Santa Catarina. This course aims to provide structured training in four main areas: vehicle design, operation, maintenance, and train and metro management.
Evaluating Romanian Eco-Innovation Performances in European Context
Authors: Davidescu Adriana , Paul Andreea , Gogonea Rodica-Manuela , Zaharia Marian
Published: September 2015

The field of eco-innovation is included in the area of sustainable development being closely related with ecological planning. In this context, this paper aims to evaluate Romanian eco-innovation performance during the period 2003–2013 by constructing a composite index and to also identify the main eco-innovation poles at the European level using multidimensional analysis techniques based on the eco-innovation specific indicators for the year 2013. This approach used the methodology of constructing composite indices proposed by Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) in 2008. The index measured the eco-innovation dimensions in 27 countries over the period 2003–2013. The empirical analysis revealed the conclusion that in Romania, the eco-innovation level is low compared with other countries, thus Romania cannot emphasize its eco-innovation performance. The empirical results of the study highlighted that eco-innovation represents a phenomenon leading to significant progress in achieving the objective of sustainable development in Romania, and also at the European level, only if the importance of this area is awarded and eco-innovation measures are enforced through adequate policies, leading to economic growth.
Adaptation to the Impacts of Climate Extremes in Central Europe: A Case Study in a Rural Area in the Czech Republic
Authors: Stojanov Robert , Duží Barbora , Daněk Tomáš , Němec Daniel , Procházka David
Published: September 2015

The primary objective of this paper is to analyse households’ adaptation measures to the impacts of repeated extreme weather events, specifically floods, which belong amongst the most serious manifestation of ongoing climate change in Europe. The case study focuses on a rural area in the north-east part of the Czech Republic, in the catchment basin of the Bečva River. A total of 605 households were addressed within the framework of the questionnaire survey. On the basis of the conducted research, we determined that the total amount of adaptation measures adopted by those dwelling in residential homes within the investigated catchment area was relatively low. In contrast, however, one of the most important adaptation measures—house elevation—was applied by 46.94% of the houses (up to 1 m) and by 21.16% houses (elevated more than 1 m) respectively. We also found that the amount and scope of adaptation measures realized by households were influenced by certain socio-demographic factors of the inhabitants. The most statistically significant factors included households with more residents or families with more children living in the household, as well as those with a higher level of education. Flood experience, the level of damage, and individual flood risk perception also played an important role.
Recent Progress in Therapeutic Treatments and Screening Strategies for the Prevention and Treatment of HPV-Associated Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Whang Sonia , Filippova Maria , Duerksen-Hughes Penelope
Published: September 2015

The rise in human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) has elicited significant interest in the role of high-risk HPV in tumorigenesis. Because patients with HPV-positive HNSCC have better prognoses than do their HPV-negative counterparts, current therapeutic strategies for HPV+ HNSCC are increasingly considered to be overly aggressive, highlighting a need for customized treatment guidelines for this cohort. Additional issues include the unmet need for a reliable screening strategy for HNSCC, as well as the ongoing assessment of the efficacy of prophylactic vaccines for the prevention of HPV infections in the head and neck regions. This review also outlines a number of emerging prospects for therapeutic vaccines, as well as for targeted, molecular-based therapies for HPV-associated head and neck cancers. Overall, the future for developing novel and effective therapeutic agents for HPV-associated head and neck tumors is promising; continued progress is critical in order to meet the challenges posed by the growing epidemic.
Exosome Biogenesis, Regulation, and Function in Viral Infection
Authors: Alenquer Marta , Amorim Maria
Published: September 2015

Exosomes are extracellular vesicles released upon fusion of multivesicular bodies(MVBs) with the cellular plasma membrane. They originate as intraluminal vesicles (ILVs) duringthe process of MVB formation. Exosomes were shown to contain selectively sorted functionalproteins, lipids, and RNAs, mediating cell-to-cell communications and hence playing a role in thephysiology of the healthy and diseased organism. Challenges in the field include the identificationof mechanisms sustaining packaging of membrane-bound and soluble material to these vesicles andthe understanding of the underlying processes directing MVBs for degradation or fusion with theplasma membrane. The investigation into the formation and roles of exosomes in viral infection is inits early years. Although still controversial, exosomes can, in principle, incorporate any functionalfactor, provided they have an appropriate sorting signal, and thus are prone to viral exploitation.This review initially focuses on the composition and biogenesis of exosomes. It then explores theregulatory mechanisms underlying their biogenesis. Exosomes are part of the endocytic system,which is tightly regulated and able to respond to several stimuli that lead to alterations in thecomposition of its sub-compartments. We discuss the current knowledge of how these changesaffect exosomal release. We then summarize how different viruses exploit specific proteins ofendocytic sub-compartments and speculate that it could interfere with exosome function, althoughno direct link between viral usage of the endocytic system and exosome release has yet beenreported. Many recent reports have ascribed functions to exosomes released from cells infectedwith a variety of animal viruses, including viral spread, host immunity, and manipulation of themicroenvironment, which are discussed. Given the ever-growing roles and importance of exosomesin viral infections, understanding what regulates their composition and levels, and defining theirfunctions will ultimately provide additional insights into the virulence and persistence of infections.
Evolution of Water Lifting Devices (Pumps) over the Centuries Worldwide
Authors: Yannopoulos Stavros , Lyberatos Gerasimos , Theodossiou Nicolaos , Li Wang , Valipour Mohammad , Tamburrino Aldo , Angelakis Andreas
Published: September 2015

The evolution of the major achievements in water lifting devices with emphasis on the major technologies over the centuries is presented and discussed. Valuable insights into ancient water lifting technologies with their apparent characteristics of durability, adaptability, and sustainability are provided. A comparison of the relevant technological developments in several early civilizations is carried out. These technologies are the underpinning of modern achievements in water engineering. They represent the best paradigm of probing the past and facing the future. A timeline of the historical development of water pumps worldwide through the last 5500 years of the history of mankind is presented. A chronological order is followed with emphasis on the major civilizations.
Acute Viral Hepatitis Presenting as Cytomegalovirus, Hepatitis E and Epstein-Barr virus IgM Antibody Positive
Authors: Huang Qin , Li Xin-Hua , Zhu Cuiyun , Yan Jingjing , Song Zhigang , Zhang Shuye , Hu Yunwen , Chen Liang , Ling Yun
Published: September 2015

We report a case of acute cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection with positive HEV and Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) serology. No patients have been reported positive for immunoglobulin (Ig)M antibodies to all three viruses. This patient had progressively increasing titres of IgM antibody for CMV, HEV and EBV. Only CMV DNA was detectable before antiviral treatment. After antiviral treatment, the patient recovered completely. At day 180 the CMV IgG test had converted to positive with CMV IgM (+), EBV IgM (-) and HEV IgM (-). Our report indicates that dependence upon serology alone is unreliable in the diagnosis of acute CMV, EBV and HEV infections. The diagnosis of CMV, HEV and EBV should be based on a combination of clinical features, serology and confirmatory PCR testing.
La perspectiva del género en el cáncer: una visión relevante y necesaria
Authors: Borràs Josep M.ª
Published: September 2015

La perspectiva del género en el cáncer ha formado parte de la gran mayoría de análisis del impacto de esta enfermedad, dada su indudable relevancia. En este artículo, exploraremos brevemente tres tipos de datos que avalan esta afirmación, la incidencia y mortalidad diferencial según género, la supervivencia observada y el comportamiento respecto a los factores de riesgo, como el tabaco. Finalmente, comentaremos sus posibles consecuencias para la estrategia de control del cáncer en nuestro país. Cualquier objetivo de control del cáncer debe ser planteado teniendo en cuenta la relevancia de la perspectiva del género.
Aspectos biológicos diferenciales en el cáncer según el género
Authors: López-Ríos Fernando
Published: September 2015

Diferentes trabajos muestran que las mujeres son potencialmente más vulnerables a desarrollar un cáncer de pulmón (CP). En particular, las mujeres son más propensas a desarrollar adenocarcinomas, suelen ser más jóvenes, son diagnosticadas en estadios más iniciales y poseen un mayor riesgo las no fumadoras. Por otra parte, no en todos los CP existe una causa concreta detectada, lo que hace pensar en la existencia de efectos aditivos y sinérgicos entre distintas causas, así como en la existencia de factores de predisposición y de riesgo para padecer un CP. En este sentido, la hipótesis de que los estrógenos pueden desempeñar un papel en la carcinogénesis del CP va cobrando importancia, aunque el mecanismo de esta implicación no está claro. Aunque todo lo expuesto en esta revisión sugiere que las mujeres son más susceptibles al tabaco y potencialmente más vulnerables a desarrollar un CP, la influencia de estas características diferenciales en cuanto a la supervivencia es controvertida.
El cáncer de pulmón en mujeres
Authors: Felip Enriqueta
Published: September 2015

El cáncer de pulmón es la enfermedad maligna más frecuente en el mundo. En los últimos diez años en España, la mortalidad por cáncer de pulmón ha aumentado un 20% en las mujeres frente a un 5% en los hombres, debido a los cambios recientes de patrones de hábito tabáquico entre ambos sexos. El tabaco sigue siendo la causa única más importante de una enfermedad prevenible en un alto porcentaje de casos. Es muy importante que la población conozca esta realidad y que modifique el estilo de vida, eliminado el tabaquismo, para poder detener esta epidemia que representa el cáncer de pulmón. En este artículo se revisarán aspectos epidemiológicos, así como factores de riesgo, características y pronóstico de las mujeres con cáncer de pulmón, con una especial atención a la población española.
Aspectos psicológicos específicos del cáncer en las mujeres
Authors: Die Trill María
Published: September 2015

Las diferencias en los aspectos psicosociales de diferentes tipos de cáncer en hombres y mujeres están basadas fundamentalmente en variables de género. Sin embargo, la forma concreta en la que influye el género en la adaptación al cáncer no está del todo definida, y desde luego, muy poco estudiada. Las diferencias de género no solo son evidentes en el impacto físico del cáncer sino también en la calidad de vida, en las diferencias psicosociales, en los estilos de afrontamiento y en la adaptación de las parejas de los pacientes al proceso de enfermedad. Es necesario identificar con más detalle las necesidades psicosociales específicas de la mujer con el fin de poder desarrollar programas concretos que tengan en cuenta las diferencias de género en el afrontamiento de la enfermedad oncológica, en el proceso de toma de decisiones médicas, y en las variables necesarias para la optimización de su calidad de vida.
El papel de las emociones y la literatura en la deliberación pública: la figura del equlibrio perceptivo de Martha C. Nussbaum
Authors: De Tienda Palop Lidia
Published: September 2015

El presente artículo sostiene que la literatura puede desempeñar un papel clave en los procesos de deliberación ética y, por tanto, se configura como una herramienta muy útil para la justificación y toma de decisiones de alcance público. Para apoyar esta tesis presento y examino la figura del equilibrio perceptivo propuesta por Martha Nussbaum, como método para canalizar los procesos de deliberación pública que integren las emociones en su propia estructura. Posteriormente analizo una de las posibles vías de aplicación del método propuesto: la introducción de los relatos narrativos, tanto históricos como ficcionales, en los planes de estudio como método para la deliberación ética.
Effects of Brush Piles on Small Mammal Abundance and Survival in Central Pennsylvania
Authors: Goguen Christopher B. , Fritsky Richard S. , San Julian Gary J.
Published: September 2015

Brush piles have long been promoted as a means to enhance wildlife habitat, yet few studies have experimentally tested the perceived benefits of these structures for wildlife or evaluated the efficacy of different arrangements of these piles within landscapes. During summers 2005 and 2006, we used a mark–recapture study to compare small mammal abundance and survival in forested habitats provisioned with brush piles vs. similar habitats without, both at sites located adjacent to agricultural edges and within the interior of forests in central Pennsylvania. Northern short-tailed shrews Blarina brevicauda, mice Peromyscus, and eastern chipmunks Tamias striatus were all frequently captured within brush piles at edge and interior sites. Peromyscus were significantly more abundant at edge vs. interior sites. The presence of brush piles, however, seemed to have little effect on small mammal abundance or survival with the only potential effect being an increased overwinter survival rate experienced by Peromyscus at brush pile sites. We hypothesize that although brush piles provide cover and foraging sites for small mammals, the large quantities of coarse woody debris that exist naturally in many forested systems may already adequately provide these habitat features, minimizing the effects of brush piles on small mammal population dynamics.