bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antiretroviral-Mediated Microglial Activation Involves Dysregulated Autophagy and Lysosomal Dysfunction
Authors: Tripathi Ashutosh , Thangaraj Annadurai , Chivero Ernest T. , Periyasamy Palsamy , Callen Shannon , Burkovetskaya Maria E. , Guo Ming-Lei , Buch Shilpa
Published: September 2019

In the era of combined antiretroviral therapy (cART), as infected individuals continue to have longer lifespans, there is also an increased prevalence of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND). Inflammation is one of the underlying features of HAND, with the role of viral proteins and antiretroviral drugs implicated in this process. Microglia are extremely sensitive to a plethora of stimuli, including viral products and cART. The current study was undertaken to understand the molecular mechanism(s) underlying cART-mediated activation of microglia. Herein we chose a combination of three commonly used drugs, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF), emtricitabine (FTC), and dolutegravir (DTG). We demonstrated that exposure of microglia to this cART cocktail induced lysosomal membrane permeabilization (LMP), which subsequently resulted in impaired lysosomal functioning involving elevated pH and decreased cathepsin D (CTSD) activity. cART exposure of microglia resulted in increased formation of autophagosomes as demonstrated by a time-dependent increase of autophagy markers, with a concomitant defect in the fusion of the lysosomes with the autophagosome. Taken together, our findings suggest a novel mechanism by which cART impairs lysosomal functioning, resulting in dysregulated autophagy and increased neuroinflammation. Interventions aimed at lysosome protection could likely be envisioned as promising therapeutic targets for abrogating cART-mediated microglia activation, which in turn, could thus be considered as adjunctive therapeutics for the treatment of HAND pathogenesis.
Experimental and Modeling Studies of Bond Coat Species Effect on Microstructure Evolution in EB-PVD Thermal Barrier Coatings in Cyclic Thermal Environments
Authors: Lu Zhe , Lyu Guanlin , Gulhane Abhilash , Park Hyeon-Myeong , Kim Jun Seong , Jung Yeon-Gil , Zhang Jing
Published: September 2019

In this work, the effects of bond coat species on the thermal barrier coating (TBC) microstructure are investigated under thermal cyclic conditions. The TBC samples are prepared by electron beam-physical vapor deposition with two species of bond coats prepared by either air-plasma spray (APS) or high-velocity oxygen fuel (HVOF) methods. The TBC samples are evaluated in a variety of thermal cyclic conditions, including flame thermal fatigue (FTF), cyclic furnace thermal fatigue (CFTF), and thermal shock (TS) tests. In FTF test, the interface microstructures of TBC samples show a sound condition without any delamination or cracking. In CFTF and TS tests, the TBCs with the HVOF bond coat demonstrate better thermal durability than that by APS. In parallel with the experiments, a finite element (FE) model is developed. Using a transient thermal analysis, the high-temperature creep-fatigue behavior of the TBC samples is simulated similar to the conditions used in CFTF test. The FE simulation predicts a lower equivalent stress at the interface between the top coat and bond coat in bond coat prepared using HVOF compared with APS, suggesting a longer cyclic life of the coating with the HVOF bond coat, which is consistent with the experimental observation.
A Rapid Synthesis of Mesoporous Mn2O3 Nanoparticles for Supercapacitor Applications
Authors: Son You-Hyun , Bui Phuong T. M. , Lee Ha-Ryeon , Akhtar Mohammad Shaheer , Shah Deb Kumar , Yang O-Bong
Published: September 2019

Mn2O3 nanomaterials have been recently composing a variety of electrochemical systems like fuel cells, supercapacitors, etc., due to their high specific capacitance, low cost, abundance and environmentally benign nature. In this work, mesoporous Mn2O3 nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized by manganese acetate, citric acid and sodium hydroxide through a hydrothermal process at 150 °C for 3 h. The synthesized mesoporous Mn2O3 NPs were thoroughly characterized in terms of their morphology, surfaces, as well as their crystalline, electrochemical and electrochemical properties. For supercapacitor applications, the synthesized mesoporous Mn2O3 NP-based electrode accomplished an excellent specific capacitance (Csp) of 460 F·g−1 at 10 mV·s−1 with a good electrocatalytic activity by observing good electrochemical properties in a 6 M KOH electrolyte. The excellent Csp might be explained by the improvement of the surface area, porous surface and uniformity, which might favor the generation of large active sites and a fast ionic transport over the good electrocatalytic surface of the Mn2O3 electrode. The fabricated supercapacitors exhibited a good cycling stability after 5000 cycles by maintaining ~83% of Csp.
Noncovalent Bonds, Spectral and Thermal Properties of Substituted Thiazolo[2,3-b][1,3]thiazinium Triiodides
Authors: Yushina Irina , Tarasova Natalya , Kim Dmitry , Sharutin Vladimir , Bartashevich Ekaterina
Published: September 2019

The interrelation between noncovalent bonds and physicochemical properties is in the spotlight due to the practical aspects in the field of crystalline material design. Such study requires a number of similar substances in order to reveal the effect of structural features on observed properties. For this reason, we analyzed a series of three substituted thiazolo[2,3-b][1,3]thiazinium triiodides synthesized by an iodocyclization reaction. They have been characterized with the use of X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and thermal analysis. Various types of noncovalent interactions have been considered, and an S…I chalcogen bond type has been confirmed using the electronic criterion based on the calculated electron density and electrostatic potential. The involvement of triiodide anions in the I…I halogen and S…I chalcogen bonding is reflected in the Raman spectroscopic properties of the I–I bonds: identical bond lengths demonstrate different wave numbers of symmetric triiodide vibration and different values of electron density at bond critical points. Chalcogen and halogen bonds formed by the terminal iodine atom of triiodide anion and numerous cation…cation pairwise interactions can serve as one of the reasons for increased thermal stability and retention of iodine in the melt under heating.
Bacterial Diversity and Community Structure in Typical Plant Rhizosphere
Authors: Alawiye Temitayo , Babalola Olubukola
Published: September 2019

Bacteria play a vital role in the quality of soil, health, and the production of plants. This has led to several studies in understanding the diversity and structure in the plant rhizosphere. Over the years, there have been overwhelming advances in molecular biology which have led to the development of omics techniques which utilize RNA, DNA, or proteins as biomolecules; these have been gainfully used in plant–microbe interactions. The bacterial community found in the rhizosphere is known for its colonization around the roots due to availability of nutrients, and composition, and it affects the plant growth directly or indirectly. Metabolic fingerprinting enables a snapshot of the metabolic composition at a given time. We review metabolites with ample information on their benefit to plants and which are found in rhizobacteria such as Pseudomonas spp. and Bacillus spp. Exploring plant-growth-promoting rhizobacteria using omics techniques can be a true success story for agricultural sustainability.
Rapid Induction and Maintenance of Remission in Refractory Ulcerative Colitis with Ustekinumab
Authors: Chen An-Yu , Oz Helieh S.
Published: September 2019

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic debilitating disease characterized by relapsing in intestinal inflammation and ulcers with no available cure. This is a clinical case report of a 52-year-old female patient with 30 years history of left-sided chronic ulcerative colitis controlled with standard of care (mesalamine and azathioprine) which subsequently relapsed and developed into active refractory ulcerative colitis. The patient became unresponsive to her medications including different forms of mesalamines and did not respond favorably to any of the other current therapies. Numerous attempts to stabilize her condition with immunosuppressants, steroids, probiotics, antibiotics, mesalamines, and various biologic agents failed to improve her clinical symptoms, and the patient was being considered for colectomy. As the last resort, modified therapy was prescribed with ustekinumab, a non-selective, anti-IL12/23 p40 monoclonal antibody. This medication has not been yet approved for use in ulcerative colitis patients. In this clinical case we report the efficacy of ustekinumab to rapidly induce and maintain remission of the severe chronic ulcerative colitis in the patient. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of utilizing ustakinamub therapy for rapid induction in an active refractory ulcerative colitis patient resulting in complete remission for over one year.
Educational Attainment and Self-Rated Oral Health among American Older Adults: Hispanics’ Diminished Returns
Authors: Assari Shervin , Bazargan Mohsen
Published: October 2019

Background: Minorities’ diminished returns (MDRs) refer to systemically weaker effects of socioeconomic status (SES), particularly educational attainment, on the health of non-Whites compared to Whites. Aim: Using a nationally representative sample, we aimed to investigate ethnic differences in the effect of SES (educational attainment) on the self-rated oral health of Hispanic older adults in the US. Methods: This study analyzed the University of Michigan National Poll on Healthy Aging (UM-NPHA) 2017 data, which included 2131 older adults who were 50 to 80 years old (202 Hispanics and 1929 non-Hispanics). Ethnicity, race, educational attainment (SES), age, gender, employment, retirement, and self-rated oral health (single item) were measured. Logistic regressions were applied for data analysis. Results: High educational attainment was associated with lower odds of poor oral health in the pooled sample, net of all covariates. The effect of educational attainment on poor self-rated oral health was found to be weaker for Hispanics than for non-Hispanics. Conclusion: We observed MDRs of educational attainment (SES) on oral health for Hispanic older adults. In other words, compared to non-Hispanics, Hispanics gain less oral health from their educational attainment (SES).
The Psychological Impact of Dental Aesthetics in Patients with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis Compared with Healthy Peers: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Bucci Rosaria , Rongo Roberto , Amato Alessandra , Martina Stefano , D’Antò Vincenzo , Valletta Rosa
Published: October 2019

This study aimed to assess whether dental aesthetics had a different impact on the psychosocial domains of adolescents with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) as compared with healthy peers. Fifty JIA patients and eighty controls aged between 13 and 17 years were enrolled. The Psychosocial Impact of Dental Aesthetics Questionnaire (PIDAQ) was administered along with tools for the self-assessment of malocclusion and self-esteem. An objective evaluation of malocclusion severity was performed through a clinical evaluation with the Dental Aesthetic Index (DAI). The sample was divided according to the DAI stages of malocclusion severity; a two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed to assess whether there was a difference in the studied variables according to the malocclusion and the presence of JIA. The results showed no interaction between the malocclusion severity and the presence of JIA in all analyzed variables (all p > 0.05). According to the DAI stages, the Dental Self-Confidence domain of the PIDAQ and the Perception of Occlusion Scale showed statistically significant differences only within the controls (p = 0.027 and p = 0.014, respectively). Therefore, JIA adolescents seem to be less concerned about their dental aesthetics compared with healthy peers, and clinicians should take particular care when proposing orthodontic treatments aiming only to improve dental aesthetics.
Power-Time Exploration Tools for NMP-Enabled Systems
Authors: Rhee Chae Eun , Park Seung-Won , Choi Jungwoo , Jung Hyunmin , Lee Hyuk-Jae
Published: September 2019

Recently, dramatic improvements in memory performance have been highly required for data demanding application services such as deep learning, big data, and immersive videos. To this end, the throughput-oriented memory such as high bandwidth memory (HBM) and hybrid memory cube (HMC) has been introduced to provide a high bandwidth. For its effective use, various research efforts have been conducted. Among them, the near-memory-processing (NMP) is a concept that utilizes bandwidth and power consumption by placing computation logic near the memory. In the NMP-enabled system, a processor hierarchy consisting of hosts and NMPs is formed based on the distance from the main memory. In this paper, an evaluation tool is proposed to obtain the optimal design decision considering the power-time trade-off in the processor hierarchy. Every time the operating condition and constraints change, the decision of task-level offloading is dynamically made. For the realistic NMP-enabled system environment, the relationship among HBM, host, and NMP should be carefully considered. Hosts and NMPs are almost hidden from each other and the communications between them are extremely limited. In the simulation results, popular benchmarks and a machine learning application are used to demonstrate power-time trade-offs depending on applications and system conditions.
Synthesis of Rectenna for Powering Micro-Watt Sensors by Harvesting Ambient RF Signals’ Power
Authors: Karampatea Apostolia , Siakavara Katherine
Published: October 2019

In the article, a dual and wide band antenna array suitable for RF rectenna applications was synthesized and global rectenna systems are presented. The array consists of two bowtie-shaped patches, printed on the one side of a dielectric slab (FR4). On the other side of the slab, an aperture-textured metallic ground layer, is printed. Examples of full-wave rectifiers connected, through matching networks, to the antenna elements and forming integrated rectenna systems for radio-frequency (RF) power harvesting at 868 MHz, from 920 to 960 MHz and at 1.8 GHz, are presented. Statistical results over frequency and the directions of arrival (DoAs) of incoming waves were received showing, at the rectifier, mean direct current (DC) voltage of 580 mV, and mean power of 58 μW, for circularly polarized waves of field intensity of 1.8 V/m. The DC voltage can reach 800 mV, the power 120 μW and the efficiency 68% when the waves come from DoAs of maximum antenna’s gain. Due to the wideband performance of the antenna, it could be used at various frequency slots as long as the matching network’s operation frequency is changed. Thus the proposed rectennas could be suitable for energizing low-power sensors or at least to charge their batteries.
Classification of Genetically Identical Left and Right Irises Using a Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Fang Beihua , Lu Yuanfu , Zhou Zhisheng , Li Zhihui , Yan Yuwen , Yang Linfeng , Jiao Guohua , Li Guangyuan
Published: October 2019

As one of the most reliable biometric identification techniques, iris recognition has focused on the differences in iris textures without considering the similarities. In this work, we investigate the correlation between the left and right irises of an individual using a VGG16 convolutional neural network. Experimental results with two independent iris datasets show that a remarkably high classification accuracy of larger than 94% can be achieved when identifying if two irises (left and right) are from the same or different individuals. This exciting finding suggests that the similarities between genetically identical irises that are indistinguishable using traditional Daugman’s approaches can be detected by deep learning. We expect this work will shed light on further studies on the correlation between irises and/or other biometric identifiers of genetically identical or related individuals, which would find potential applications in criminal investigations.
Prediction of Pasting Properties of Dough from Mixolab Measurements Using Artificial Neuronal Networks
Authors: Codină Georgiana Gabriela , Dabija Adriana , Oroian Mircea
Published: October 2019

An artificial neuronal network (ANN) system was conducted to predict the Mixolab parameters which described the wheat flour starch-amylase part (torques C3, C4, C5, and the difference between C3-C4and C5-C4, respectively) from physicochemical properties (wet gluten, gluten deformation index, Falling number, moisture content, water absorption) of 10 different refined wheat flours supplemented bydifferent levels of fungal α-amylase addition. All Mixolab parameters analyzed and the Falling number values were reduced with the increased level of α-amylase addition. The ANN results accurately predicted the Mixolab parameters based on wheat flours physicochemical properties and α-amylase addition. ANN analyses showed that moisture content was the most sensitive parameter in influencing Mixolab maximum torque C3 and the difference between torques C3 and C4, while wet gluten was the most sensitive parameter in influencing minimum torque C4 and the difference between torques C5 and C4, and α-amylase level was the most sensitive parameter in predicting maximum torque C5. It is obvious that the Falling number of all the Mixolab characteristics best predicted the difference between torques C3 and C4.
A Census of B[e] Supergiants
Authors: Kraus Michaela
Published: September 2019

Stellar evolution theory is most uncertain for massive stars. For reliable predictions of the evolution of massive stars and their final fate, solid constraints on the physical parameters, and their changes along the evolution and in different environments, are required. Massive stars evolve through a variety of short transition phases, in which they can experience large mass-loss either in the form of dense winds or via sudden eruptions. The B[e] supergiants comprise one such group of massive transition objects. They are characterized by dense, dusty disks of yet unknown origin. In the Milky Way, identification and classification of B[e] supergiants is usually hampered by their uncertain distances, hence luminosities, and by the confusion of low-luminosity candidates with massive pre-main sequence objects. The extragalactic objects are often mistaken as quiescent or candidate luminous blue variables, with whom B[e] supergiants share a number of spectroscopic characteristics. In this review, proper criteria are provided, based on which B[e] supergiants can be unambiguously classified and separated from other high luminosity post-main sequence stars and pre-main sequence stars. Using these criteria, the B[e] supergiant samples in diverse galaxies are critically inspected, to achieve a reliable census of the current population.
Non-Random Distribution of Reciprocal Translocation Breakpoints in the Pig Genome
Authors: Donaldson Brendan , Villagomez Daniel A. F. , Revay Tamas , Rezaei Samira , King W. Allan
Published: September 2019

Balanced chromosome rearrangements are one of the main etiological factors contributing to hypoprolificacy in the domestic pig. Amongst domestic animals, the pig is considered to have the highest prevalence of chromosome rearrangements. To date over 200 unique chromosome rearrangements have been identified. The factors predisposing pigs to chromosome rearrangements, however, remain poorly understood. Nevertheless, here we provide empirical evidence which sustains the notion that there is a non-random distribution of chromosomal rearrangement breakpoints in the pig genome. We sought to establish if there are structural chromosome factors near which rearrangement breakpoints preferentially occur. The distribution of rearrangement breakpoints was analyzed across three level, chromosomes, chromosome arms, and cytogenetic GTG-bands (G-banding using trypsin and giemsa). The frequency of illegitimate exchanges (e.g., reciprocal translocations) between individual chromosomes and chromosome arms appeared to be independent of chromosome length and centromere position. Meanwhile chromosome breakpoints were overrepresented on some specific G-bands, defining chromosome hotspots for ectopic exchanges. Cytogenetic band level factors, such as the length of bands, chromatin density, and presence of fragile sites, were associated with the presence of translocation breakpoints. The characteristics of these bands were largely similar to that of hotspots in the human genome. Therefore, those hotspots are proposed as a starting point for future molecular analyses into the genomic landscape of porcine chromosome rearrangements.
Early European Observations of Precipitation Partitioning by Vegetation: A Synthesis and Evaluation of 19th Century Findings
Authors: Friesen Jan , Van Stan John T.
Published: September 2019

The first contact between precipitation and the land surface is often a plant canopy. The resulting precipitation partitioning by vegetation returns water back to the atmosphere (evaporation of intercepted precipitation) and redistributes water to the subcanopy surface as a “drip” flux (throughfall) and water that drains down plant stems (stemflow). Prior to the first benchmark publication of the field by Horton in 1919, European observatories and experimental stations had been observing precipitation partitioning since the mid-19th century. In this paper, we describe these early monitoring networks and studies of precipitation partitioning and show the impressive level of detail. Next to a description of the early studies, results included in this synthesis have been digitized and analyzed to compare them to recent studies. Although many early studies lack modern statistical analyses and monitoring tools that have become standard today, they had many strengths (not necessarily shared by every study, of course), including: A rigorous level of detail regarding stand characteristics (which is often lacking in modern ecohydrological studies); high-resolution spatiotemporal throughfall experiments; and chronosequential data collection and analysis. Moreover, these early studies reveal the roots of interest in precipitation partitioning processes and represent a generally forgotten piece of history shared by the hydrology, meteorology, forestry, and agricultural scientific communities. These studies are therefore relevant today and we hope modern scientists interested in plant-precipitation interactions will find new inspiration in our synthesis and evaluation of this literature.
Estimations of Fracture Surface Area Using Tracer and Temperature Data in Geothermal Fields
Authors: Suzuki Anna , Ikhwanda Fuad , Yamaguchi Aoi , Hashida Toshiyuki
Published: October 2019

Reinjection is crucial for sustainable geothermal developments. In order to predict thermal performances due to cold-water injection, a method was developed to estimate effective fracture surface areas (i.e., heat transfer areas). Tracer response curves at production wells are analyzed to determine flow rates and pore volumes, and the fracture surface areas are optimized by short-term thermal response curves. Because the method erases fracture apertures from the equation by combining mass and heat transfer equations, the fracture surfaces can be analyzed without assuming that the fracture shape is a parallel plate. The estimation method was applied to two geothermal field datasets: One involved an artificially created reservoir, and the other involved a naturally occurring reservoir. The estimated heat transfer areas are reasonable in the field geometries. Once the fracture surface area is estimated, the future temperature change and power generation can be predicted. This can provide a simple and quick method to design reinjection strategies.
The Changing Nature of Palliative Care: Implications for Allied Health Professionals’ Educational and Training Needs
Authors: Morgan Deidre D. , Rawlings Deb , Moores Carly J. , Button Lizzie , Tieman Jennifer J.
Published: September 2019

CareSearch is an Australian Government Department of Health funded repository of evidence-based palliative care information and resources. The CareSearch Allied Health Hub was developed in 2013 to support all allied health professionals working with palliative care clients in all clinical settings. This cross-sectional online survey sought to elicit allied health professionals palliative care experiences and subsequent considerations for educational and clinical practice needs. The survey was disseminated nationally via a range of organisations. Data was collected about palliative care knowledge, experience working with palliative care clients and professional development needs. Data were evaluated by profession, experience and practice setting. In total, 217 respondents answered one or more survey questions (94%). Respondents (65%) reported seeing >15 palliative care clients per month with 84% seen in hospital and community settings. Undergraduate education underprepared or partially prepared allied health professionals to work with these clients (96%) and 67% identified the need for further education. Access to postgraduate professional development was limited by available backfill and funding. Study findings support the importance of free, accessible, relevant educational and professional development resources to support clinical practice. This is particularly relevant for allied health professionals who have limited opportunities to attend formal professional development sessions.
The Effects of Force That Pushes Forward Lumbar Region on Sagittal Spinal Alignment When Wearing Backpack
Authors: In Tae-sung , Yu Seung-man , Jang Sang-hun
Published: September 2019

The purpose of this study is to design a backpack to push the lumbar region forward and confirm the change in the sagittal plane of the spine using radiography when wearing the backpack to present an effective backpack wearing method that can help spinal alignment. Place the question addressed in a broad context and highlight the purpose of the study. A total of 14 adult volunteers participated in the study. The study was carried out on the subjects without carrying a backpack, with a general backpack, and with a backpack designed to push the lumbar region forward. We investigated cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and sacral alignment under these three conditions. Lumbar lordosis showed a significant decrease in the state of wearing a general backpack compared to the case without a backpack, and a significant increase in the state of wearing a backpack designed to push the lumbar region forward rather than a general backpack. In addition, the sacral slope was significantly increased when carrying the backpack designed to push the lumbar region forward, compared to carrying the general backpack. There was a significant correlation between the sacral and lumbar alignment change when wearing the backpack compared to the state without a backpack. The results of this study indicate that wearing a backpack designed to push the lumbar region forward may contribute to the recovery of lumbar lordosis that is reduced when wearing a general backpack. This may be due to an increase in the sacral slope corresponding to the inferior angle of lumbar spine.
Gender Differences in Labour Losses Associated with Smoking-Related Mortality
Authors: Oliva-Moreno Juan , Trapero-Bertran Marta , Peña-Longobardo Luz María
Published: September 2019

The aim of this paper was to estimate the number of premature deaths, years of potential productive life lost (YPPLL) and labour losses attributable to tobacco smoking due to premature death by gender for the Spanish population. The human capital approach was applied. Employment, gross wage and death data were obtained from the Spanish National Institute of Statistics. Relative risks of death due to cigarette smoking and former smoking were applied. The base case used an annual discount rate of 3% and an annual labour productivity growth rate of 1%. Univariate deterministic sensitivity analysis was performed on discount rates and labour productivity growth rates. Between 2002 and 2016, smoking was estimated to cause around 13,171–13,781 annual deaths in the population under 65 years of age (legal retirement age) in Spain. This increase was mostly due to female deaths. YPPLLs for females have increased over the years, while for males they have fallen markedly. Labour losses associated with smoking mortality ranged from €2269 million in 2002 to €1541 in 2016 (base year 2016). In fact, labour productivity losses have decreased over the years for men (−39.8%) but increased sharply for women (101.6%). The evolution of monetary value of lost productivity due to smoking mortality shows clearly differentiated trends by gender.
Inter-Basin Water Transfer Supply Chain Coordination with Ramsey Pricing
Authors: Chen Zhisong , Cheung Keith C.K. , Tan Manyi
Published: September 2019

Often enough, social welfare and private benefit do not align for quasi-public goods/services. The inter-basin water transfer (IBWT) project provides a vivid example of this. In this paper, following the game-theoretical approach, we derive an optimal Ramsey pricing scheme to resolve these conflicts. We try to compare traditional supply chain management models with an optimal Ramsey pricing scheme, with an enforcement of coordination among firms. Using simulation techniques, we compute numerical estimates under three regimes: a standard equilibrium decision framework, a coordination decision model and a coordinated Ramsey pricing scheme. Our results show the relative welfare impact of different settings, revealing that the optimal pricing scheme based on the two-part tariff structure cannot only improve social welfare, but also ensure a target profit for participating firms. Lastly, our findings have strong policy implications for the government with profit regulation and the control of water resources.
First Trimester Combined Test (FTCT) as a Predictor of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Visconti Federica , Quaresima Paola , Chiefari Eusebio , Caroleo Patrizia , Arcidiacono Biagio , Puccio Luigi , Mirabelli Maria , Foti Daniela P. , Di Carlo Costantino , Vero Raffaella , Brunetti Antonio
Published: September 2019

Background—The first trimester combined test (FTCT) is an effective screening tool to estimate the risk of fetal aneuploidy. It is obtained by the combination of maternal age, ultrasound fetal nuchal translucency (NT) measurement, and the maternal serum markers free β-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) and pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A). However, conflicting data have been reported about the association of FTCT, β-hCG, or PAPP-A with the subsequent diagnosis of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Research design and methods—2410 consecutive singleton pregnant women were retrospectively enrolled in Calabria, Southern Italy. All participants underwent examinations for FTCT at 11–13 weeks (plus 6 days) of gestation, and screening for GDM at 16–18 and/or 24–28 weeks of gestation, in accordance with current Italian guidelines and the International Association Diabetes Pregnancy Study Groups (IADPSG) glycemic cut-offs. Data were examined by univariate and logistic regression analyses. Results—1814 (75.3%) pregnant women were normal glucose tolerant, while 596 (24.7%) were diagnosed with GDM. Spearman univariate analysis demonstrated a correlation between FTCT values and subsequent GDM diagnosis (ρ = 0.048, p = 0.018). The logistic regression analysis showed that women with a FTCT <1:10000 had a major GDM risk (p = 0.016), similar to women with a PAPP-A <1 multiple of the expected normal median (MoM, p = 0.014). Conversely, women with β-hCG ≥2.0 MoM had a reduced risk of GDM (p = 0.014). Conclusions—Our findings indicate that GDM susceptibility increases with fetal aneuploidy risk, and that FTCT and its related maternal serum parameters can be used as early predictors of GDM.
Prenatal Psychological Stress Exposure and Neurodevelopment and Health of Children
Authors: Bleker Laura S. , de Rooij Susanne R. , Roseboom Tessa J.
Published: September 2019

Depression and anxiety are highly prevalent in pregnancy, with an estimated prevalence of 12% for depression [...]
Mental Sleep Activity and Disturbing Dreams in the Lifespan
Authors: Scarpelli Serena , Bartolacci Chiara , D’Atri Aurora , Gorgoni Maurizio , De Gennaro Luigi
Published: September 2019

Sleep significantly changes across the lifespan, and several studies underline its crucial role in cognitive functioning. Similarly, mental activity during sleep tends to covary with age. This review aims to analyze the characteristics of dreaming and disturbing dreams at different age brackets. On the one hand, dreams may be considered an expression of brain maturation and cognitive development, showing relations with memory and visuo-spatial abilities. Some investigations reveal that specific electrophysiological patterns, such as frontal theta oscillations, underlie dreams during sleep, as well as episodic memories in the waking state, both in young and older adults. On the other hand, considering the role of dreaming in emotional processing and regulation, the available literature suggests that mental sleep activity could have a beneficial role when stressful events occur at different age ranges. We highlight that nightmares and bad dreams might represent an attempt to cope the adverse events, and the degrees of cognitive-brain maturation could impact on these mechanisms across the lifespan. Future investigations are necessary to clarify these relations. Clinical protocols could be designed to improve cognitive functioning and emotional regulation by modifying the dream contents or the ability to recall/non-recall them.
The Human–Animal Relationship as the Focus of Animal-Assisted Interventions: A One Health Approach
Authors: Menna Lucia Francesca , Santaniello Antonio , Todisco Margherita , Amato Alessia , Borrelli Luca , Scandurra Cristiano , Fioretti Alessandro
Published: September 2019

Background: Animal-assisted intervention (AAIs) represent an adequate expression of integrated medicine, according to the One Health approach. We argue that AAIs are interventions based on interspecific relationships between humans and animals. Although there are many studies on the effects of AAIs on animal and human health and wellbeing, research is still needed to give us more data. For example, information is still lacking on the aspects characterizing and influencing the interspecific relationships occurring in AAIs. The efficacy of an intervention based on interspecific relationships will be influenced by different factors, such as attachment styles and personalities of both the animal and the handler, an appropriate choice of animal species and their individuality, animal educational training techniques, the relationship between the handler and the animal, and relational reciprocity between animal, the patients, and members of the working team. Method: This article aims to contribute to the study of interspecific relationships in AAIs via theoretical considerations. An interspecific relationship determines the result of safe interventions, which directly influences the welfare of the animal. Results and considerations: AAIs should be evaluated systemically as a network within a process in which every component interacts with and influences other components. Standardized methods using appropriate tests and parameters are needed to better select appropriate animals (i.e., species and individual subjects) using interspecific relational competences as well as appropriate educational training methods and health protocols to assess potential risks.
And in the Middle of My Chaos There Was You?—Dog Companionship and Its Impact on the Assessment of Stressful Situations
Authors: Krouzecky Christine , Emmett Lisa , Klaps Armin , Aden Jan , Bunina Anastasiya , Stetina Birgit U.
Published: September 2019

Recent studies show evidence that human-dog companionship has healthy effects on humans. For example, findings demonstrate that owning a dog leads to a reduction in stress levels. Aspects that have not been taken into consideration so far are underlying theoretical principles of stress like the sense of coherence (SOC) by Aaron Antonovsky. The SOC consists of psycho-social, biochemical and physical conditions which indicate whether or not inner and outer stimuli are comprehensive, manageable and meaningful to an individual. In addition, it is still unclear if owning a dog affects the subjective assessment of critical life events (CLE), which is associated with the strength of the SOC (the stronger the SOC, the better the handling and assessment of stressful situations). Based on these aspects, the goal of the study was to examine if dog ownership, as well as values of the SOC, have an impact on the subjective evaluation of CLE (including daily hassles as well as unexpected critical life events). For this purpose, dog owners and non-dog owners were surveyed online and were compared based on their personal estimations regarding these constructs. Statistical analysis including t-tests, correlations and interaction-analyses were performed and a significant difference between dog owners and non-dog owners regarding the assessment of daily hassles was found. Contrary to expectations, results show that dog owners assessed daily stressors to be more stressful than non-dog owners did. Moreover, data show that the higher the number of stated relationships (inner- and cross-species), the more stressful life events were assessed to be. Calculations showed no evidence for the influence of dogs regarding the SOC. Based on the actual findings, it might be assumed, that an overestimation of the dog’s protective role regarding stress has taken place in public media and in research as well.
Knowledge and Poor Understanding Factors of Stroke and Heart Attack Symptoms
Authors: Han Chang Hoon , Kim Hyeyun , Lee Sujin , Chung Jae Ho
Published: September 2019

Objectives: Adequate awareness of cardiovascular disease (CVD) may help in its prevention and control. Therefore, we evaluated knowledge among the general population of stroke and heart attack symptoms and determined the factors associated with poor understanding of CVD. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 228,240 adults (102,408 males, 125,832 females) who participated in the 2017 Korean Community Health Survey. Data on sociodemographic characteristics and cognizance of the warning signs of CVD events (stroke and heart attack) were examined. Logistic regression analysis was used to investigate factors associated with poor understanding of CVD. Results: The stroke and heart attack warning signs that were identified least often by respondents were “sudden poor vision in one or both eyes” (66.1%) and “pain or discomfort in the arm or shoulder” (53.8%). Of the subjects, 19.0% had low CVD knowledge scores (less than 4 out of 10) with males having lower scores than females. In the multivariate analysis, poor understanding of CVD warning signs was significantly associated with older age, male gender, lower education level, lack of regular exercise, unmarried status, unemployment, poor economic status, poor health behaviors (high salt diet, no health screening), poor psychological status (high stress, self-perceived poor health status), and the presence of hypertension or dyslipidemia. Conclusions: Specialized interventions, including those based on public education, should focus on groups with less knowledge of CVD.
A Study on the Sustainable Development of Water, Energy, and Food in China
Authors: Jin Lei , Chang Yuanhua , Ju Xianwei , Xu Fei
Published: September 2019

It is of great significance to deal with the relationship between external factors and the water-energy-food internal system for China’s sustainable development. This paper takes China as the research object, uses the system dynamics method to construct a model for China’s water-energy-food system, and introduces the “two-child” policy and trade friction as the scenario parameters for simulation. The main results of scenario simulation can be summarized as the following three points. In terms of water, the trade friction will hinder China’s industrial water consumption into a low-consumption stage. In terms of energy, both the trade friction and the “two-child” policy, will not change the increasing trend of energy demand. In terms of food, if there is strong response to the “two-child” policy, there will be insufficient food inventory under the current capacity and import ratio. In short, this paper takes the sustainable development of water-energy-food as a starting point and puts forward policy suggestions on the comprehensive formulation of policies.
Our Healthy Clarence: A Community-Driven Wellbeing Initiative
Authors: Powell Nicholas , Dalton Hazel , Perkins David , Considine Robyn , Hughes Sue , Osborne Samantha , Buss Richard
Published: September 2019

In 2015–2016, the Clarence Valley in Northern New South Wales, Australia, experienced an unexpectedly high number of deaths by suicide, and the resulting distress was exacerbated by unhelpful press coverage. The local response was to adopt a community-wide positive mental health and wellbeing initiative. This paper describes the process and achievements of the initiative called ‘Our Healthy Clarence’. Key stakeholders were interviewed at year two and relevant documents reviewed. Data were analysed using document and thematic analysis. Our Healthy Clarence was established following community consultation, including forums, interviews, surveys and workshops. It adopted a strengths-based approach to suicide prevention, encompassing positive health promotion, primary and secondary prevention activities, advocacy, and cross-sectoral collaboration. A stakeholder group formed to develop and enact a community mental health and wellbeing plan. Factors contributing to its successful implementation included a collective commitment to mental health and wellbeing, clarity of purpose, leadership support from key local partners, a paid independent coordinator, and inclusive and transparent governance. Stakeholders reported increased community agency, collaboration, optimism and willingness to discuss mental health, suicide and help-seeking. Our Healthy Clarence draws ideas from mental health care, community development and public health. This initiative could serve as a model for other communities to address suicide, self-harm and improve wellbeing on a whole-of-community scale.
The Turn of the Month Effect on CEE Stock Markets
Authors: Arendas Peter , Kotlebova Jana
Published: October 2019

The Turn of the month effect is one of the better-known calendar anomalies. If a stock market is affected by the Turn of the month effect, it records significantly higher returns during a relatively short time period around the end of the old month and the beginning of the new one, than during the remainder of the month. This paper investigates the presence of the Turn of the month effect in the stock markets of 11 Central and Eastern European (CEE) countries. We focused not only on the anomaly in returns, but also on the anomaly in price volatility. The results show that, during a 20-year period (1999–2018), a statistically significant Turn of the month effect was present in the stock markets of seven out of 11 investigated countries. However, the anomaly affected only the stock market returns, not price volatility.
Transmission of Xylella fastidiosa Subspecies Pauca Sequence Type 53 by Different Insect Species
Authors: Cavalieri Vincenzo , Altamura Giuseppe , Fumarola Giulio , di Carolo Michele , Saponari Maria , Cornara Daniele , Bosco Domenico , Dongiovanni Crescenza
Published: September 2019

Diseases associated with Xylella fastidiosa have been described mostly in North and South America. However, during the last five years, widespread X. fastidiosa infections have been reported in a constrained area of the Apulia region (southern Italy), in olives trees suffering a severe disease, denoted as Olive Quick Decline Syndrome (OQDS). Because many xylem sap-feeding insects can function as vectors for the transmission of this exotic pathogen in EU, several research programs are ongoing to assess the role of candidate vectors in the spread of the infections. Initial investigations identified Philaenus spumarius (L.) as the predominant vector species in the olive orchards affected by the OQDS. Additional experiments have been carried out during 2016 and 2017 to assess the role of other species. More specifically, adults of the spittlebugs Philaenus italosignus Drosopolous and Remane, Neophilaenus campestris (Fallen) and of the planthopper Latilica tunetana (Matsumura) (Issidae) have been tested in transmission experiments to assess their ability to acquire the bacterium from infected olives and to infect different susceptible hosts (olives, almond, myrtle –leaf milkwort, periwinkle). Acquisition rates determined by testing individual insects in quantitative PCR assays, ranging from 5.6% in N. campestris to 22.2% in P. italosignus, whereas no acquisition was recorded for L. tunetana. Successful transmissions were detected in the recipient plants exposed to P. italosignus and N. campestris, whereas no trasmissions occurred with L. tunetana. The known vector Philaenus spumarius has been included in all the experiments for validation. The systematic surveys conducted in 2016 and 2017 provided further evidence on the population dynamics and seasonal abundance of the spittlebug populations in the olive groves.
Comparison of the Sex Pheromone Composition of Harmonia axyridis Originating from Native and Invaded Areas
Authors: Legrand Pauline , Vanderplanck Maryse , Verheggen Francois J.
Published: September 2019

The multicolored Asian lady beetle, Harmonia axyridis (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), originates from South-East Asia and is now considered as an invasive species at a worldwide scale, with populations encountered in North and South America, Africa, and Europe. Several previous studies suggested that invasive populations display different behavioral and physiological traits, leading to a better fitness than native individuals. H. axyridis sex pheromone was identified recently, but only from individuals established in Europe. In this study, we compare the composition of the female sex pheromone of H. axyridis from two populations: (i) an invasive population in North America, and (ii) a native population in South-East China. We found the females originating from both populations to release in similar proportions the same five pheromonal compounds, namely β-caryophyllene, β-elemene, methyl-eugenol, α-humulene, and α-bulnesene. However, females from the North American strain release all five compounds in larger amount than the Chinese ones. Whether invasive individuals were selected during the process of invasion through their capacity to better call and find sexual partners remains to be confirmed.