bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysing Students’ Achievement in the Learning of Electronics Supported by ICT Resources
Authors: Valiente David , Payá Luis , Fernández de Ávila Susana , Ferrer Juan C. , Reinoso Oscar
Published: March 2019

Over the past few decades, the incipient growth of technology applications sustained by electronics has contributed to the adaption of learning programs in many engineering degrees at university, fostering the presence of electronics subjects. This highlights the paramount importance of improving the teaching of electronics, especially in the first years of Bachelor’s degrees in engineering. However, despite the fact that the teaching programs have been periodically renewed with more practical sessions, the students’ outcomes are still noticeably low. So far, results only confirm improvements in the students’ performance in the resolution of electronic circuits. Nonetheless, this is generally subject to the application of repetitive circuit resolution models, to the detriment of the real and active understanding of electronic principles. In this context, this study assesses the actual efficacy of different ICT (Information, Communication and Technology) resources, introduced into an electronics course, taught in an engineering Bachelor’s degree, within the Spanish official university system. These resources have been sequentially introduced during five consecutive years. We have conducted a statistical analysis to infer whether all the resources are equally relevant for the achievement of the students or not. In addition, we have designed a survey to measure the perceived improvement in the understanding of concepts, acquired competences, and reported satisfaction and attitude towards the use of specific resources during the program. Amongst others, LMS (Learning Management System) support, online PBL (Problem-Based Learning) activities, and CSA (Circuit Simulation Applets) have been considered. Overall, the designed learning program has been intended to provide students with long-term references to enrich their resources’ background regarding electronics.
Mitigation of Condensate Banking Using Thermochemical Treatment: Experimental and Analytical Study
Authors: Hassan Amjed M. , Mahmoud Mohamed A. , Al-Majed Abdulaziz A. , Al-Nakhli Ayman R. , Bataweel Mohammed A. , Elkatatny Salaheldin
Published: March 2019

Condensate banking is a common problem in tight gas reservoirs because it diminishes the gas relative permeability and reduces the gas production rate significantly. CO2 injection is a common and very effective solution to mitigate the condensate damage around the borehole in tight gas reservoirs. The problem with CO2 injection is that it is a temporary solution and has to be repeated frequently in the field in addition to the supply limitations of CO2 in some areas. In addition, the infrastructure required at the surface to handle CO2 injection makes it expensive to apply CO2 injection for condensate removal. In this paper, a new permanent technique is introduced to remove the condensate by using a thermochemical technique. Two chemicals will be used to generate in situ CO2, nitrogen, steam, heat, and pressure. The reaction of the two chemicals downhole can be triggered either by the reservoir temperature or a chemical activator. Two chemicals will start reacting and produce all the mentioned reaction products after 24 h of mixing and injection. In addition, the reaction can be triggered by a chemical activator and this will shorten the time of reaction. Coreflooding experiments were carried out using actual condensate samples from one of the gas fields. Tight sandstone cores of 0.9 mD permeability were used. The results of this study showed that the thermochemical reaction products removed the condensate and reduced its viscosity due to the high temperature and the generated gases. The novelty in this paper is the creation of micro-fractures in the tight rock sample due to the in-situ generation of heat and pressure. These micro-fractures reduced the capillary forces that hold the condensate and enhanced the rock relative permeability. The creation of micro-fractures and in turn the reduction of the capillary forces can be considered as permanent condensate removal.
Simulation, Fuzzy Analysis and Development of ZnO Nanostructure-based Piezoelectric MEMS Energy Harvester
Authors: Ali Basit , Ashraf Muhammad Waseem , Tayyaba Shahzadi
Published: March 2019

Fuzzy logic-based control systems are widely used in various fields like home appliances, medical instruments, automobiles, textile machinery, agriculture equipment and aviation for process control and data analysis. Fuzzy logic technique has shown great potential to solve the complex problems of physical world due to similarity with human understanding. Its advancements have gained widespread attention in different research areas. In several cases, it is very suitable for electronic devices which need to be precisely self-powered. In this work, an ANSYS-based simulation, fuzzy analysis, development and testing of a microelectromechanical system (MEMS)-based energy harvester have been presented. Zinc oxide (ZnO) nano rods were synthesized on an anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) template to form the MEMS energy harvester and study the effect of energy generation by applying force. The power of 5.16 nano Watts has been obtained by taking the numerical value of voltage (Voc) and current (Isc) as 3.16 mV and 0.985 µA respectively using fuzzy logic tool. Experimental testing of the harvester shows that the range of Voc is 3–6.4 mV and Isc is 0.45–1.5 μA. The results depict that this device can be used for touch screens to generate energy that can be further utilized for charging smart devices.
Green Diesel: Biomass Feedstocks, Production Technologies, Catalytic Research, Fuel Properties and Performance in Compression Ignition Internal Combustion Engines
Authors: Douvartzides Savvas L. , Charisiou Nikolaos D. , Papageridis Kyriakos N. , Goula Maria A.
Published: March 2019

The present investigation provides an overview of the current technology related to the green diesel, from the classification and chemistry of the available biomass feedstocks to the possible production technologies and up to the final fuel properties and their effect in modern compression ignition internal combustion engines. Various biomass feedstocks are reviewed paying attention to their specific impact on the production of green diesel. Then, the most prominent production technologies are presented such as the hydro-processing of triglycerides, the upgrading of sugars and starches into C15–C18 saturated hydrocarbons, the upgrading of bio-oil derived by the pyrolysis of lignocellulosic materials and the “Biomass-to-Liquid” (BTL) technology which combines the production of syngas (H2 and CO) from the gasification of biomass with the production of synthetic green diesel through the Fischer-Tropsch process. For each of these technologies the involved chemistry is discussed and the necessary operation conditions for the maximum production yield and the best possible fuel properties are reviewed. Also, the relevant research for appropriate catalysts and catalyst supports is briefly presented. The fuel properties of green diesel are then discussed in comparison to the European and US Standards, to petroleum diesel and Fatty Acid Methyl Esters (FAME) and, finally their effect on the compression ignition engines are analyzed. The analysis concludes that green diesel is an excellent fuel for combustion engines with remarkable properties and significantly lower emissions.
The Impact of the Biomass Crop Assistance Program on the United States Forest Products Market: An Application of the Global Forest Products Model
Authors: Jiang Wei , Carter Douglas , Fu Hanliang , Jacobson Michael , Zipp Katherine , Jin Jiang , Yang Long
Published: March 2019

As the largest consumer of petroleum and second highest producer of greenhouse gas emissions, the United States currently is a leading country in bioenergy production driven by a series of policies. One such public program that directly subsidizes biomass feedstock growers is the Biomass Crop Assistance Program (BCAP), which recently received attention for stimulating the development of bioenergy. However, critiques were also raised, concerning the possibility of intensifying the feedstock competition between bioenergy and forest products. This study, therefore, aimed at assessing the effects of BCAP on the forest product markets with the Global Forest Products Model (GFPM). Three alternative scenarios were designed to simulate three payments in BCAP. In the first scenario, the matching payment was simulated by adjusting the manufacturing cost of fuelwood and particleboard. In the second scenario, establishment payment was simulated by adjusting the supply rate of industrial roundwood. In the third scenario, the annual payment was simulated by linking the supply change rate with the soil rental rate for industrial roundwood. We found that, under the matching payment scenario, industrial roundwood and particleboard will experience a sharp decrease in production and an increase in price. For establishment payments, industrial roundwood will experience a continuous increase in production and a decrease in price. For annual payments, the industrial roundwood will experience a V-shape pattern production.
A Dark, Inner Life and a Society in Crisis: Nina Bouraoui’s Standard
Authors: Marchi Lisa
Published: March 2019

Situating close readings of Nina Bouraoui’s latest novel Standard (2014) within the context of a critique of neoliberalism and of the ongoing geopolitical uprisings in the Arab world, this essay presents the novel as a fine literary and affective exploration of personal concerns relating to sex, gender, and desire as well as a sociohistorical chronicle detailing how representations of personal and intimate relations may illuminate wider social ills together with the mechanism of contemporary political life. Drawing on critical work on affect by Sara Ahmed, Lauren Berlant, Judith Butler, and Judith/Jack Halberstam, this article argues that through its focus on affect, the text contributes to the unveiling and critical questioning of the biopolitical maneuvers that dispose life to precarity and of the ensuing desire for freedom, dignity, and rebellion.
Stomach Cancer and Exposure to Talc Powder without Asbestos via Chinese Herbal Medicine: A Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Chang Che-Jui , Yang Yao-Hsu , Chen Pau-Chung , Peng Hsin-Yi , Lu Yi-Chia , Song Sheng-Rong , Yang Hsiao-Yu
Published: March 2019

The present investigation was designed to explore the risk of stomach cancer by oral intake of talc powder without asbestos. We conducted a population-based cohort study on a randomly sampled cohort from Taiwan’s health insurance database, with population of 1,000,000. The study participants were followed up through 2013. The outcome event of interest was the diagnosis of stomach cancer. The exposure of interest was the prescription of talc powder. Cox regression analyses were performed respectively. There were 584,077 persons without talc exposure and 21,575 talc users, 1849 diagnosed with stomach cancer. Persons with exposure of talc had a higher hazard ratio of stomach cancer (adjusted hazard ratio, 2.13; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.54–2.94; p < 0.001). Classification by cumulative exposure of talc yielded adjusted hazard ratios of stomach cancer of 1.58 (95% CI, 0.79–3.17; p = 0.19) and 2.30 (95% CI, 1.48–3.57; p < 0.001) among persons with high (>21 g) and medium (6–21 g) exposure of talc, as compared to the low-exposure counterparts. Our data demonstrated positive association between increased risk of stomach cancer and oral intake of talc without asbestos. Despite the absence of dose-response effect, there might be a link between stomach cancer and talc.
Chronic Diseases & Employment: An Overview of Existing Training Tools for Employers
Authors: Silvaggi Fabiola , Leonardi Matilde , Guastafierro Erika , Quintas Rui , Toppo Claudia , Foucaud Jerome , Lamore Kristopher , Rothe Ulrike , Scaratti Chiara
Published: March 2019

Background: The number of people living with one or more chronic diseases (e.g., neurological, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, respiratory, metabolic disorders) has dramatically increased in recent decades, affecting all sectors, including the social and economic aspects of the work sector. In the frame of the European Union (EU) Joint Action “Chrodis Plus: Implementing good practices for chronic diseases”, a review has been performed in order to identify and analyze existing training tools for employers, including managers and Human Resources Staff (HRs), which aimed at creating and fostering inclusive and supportive workplaces for workers with chronic conditions and to avoid absenteeism, presenteeism, and early retirement. Methods: The training tools were identified through a revision of online published materials through Google Scholar and internet searches, published since 2006, in English, Italian, and Spanish. Results: The mapping of existing training tools highlighted the existence of two types of training tools: the first type includes those implemented by Social and Institutional Organizations (e.g., Patients’ Associations, Ministries, Unions), external to the company; the second involves those implemented by Large Multinational Enterprises. Conclusions: to promote an effective and concrete inclusion and participation of employees that are affected by chronic diseases in the labor market is necessary to involve employers and managers in training programs.
A Comparison of E-Cigarette Use Patterns and Smoking Cessation Behavior among Vapers by Primary Place of Purchase
Authors: Hsu Greta , Gamst Anthony C. , Zhuang Yue-Lin , Wolfson Tanya , Zhu Shu-Hong
Published: March 2019

Background: E-cigarettes are purchased through multiple channels, including general retail, online, and specialty smoke and vape shops. We examine how e-cigarette users’ primary purchase place relates to e-cigarette use and smoking cessation behaviors. Methods: Probability-based samples of the U.S. population who were current e-cigarette users were surveyed in 2014 (N = 879) and 2016 (N = 743), with responses combined for most analyses. E-cigarette use and smoking cessation behaviors were compared across users’ primary purchase place. Results: Higher percentages of vape shop (59.1%) and internet (42.9%) customers were current daily users of e-cigarettes compared to retail (19.7%) and smoke shop (23.2%) customers (p-values < 0.001). Higher percentages of vape shop (40.2%) and internet (35.1%) customers were also former smokers, compared to 17.7% of retail and 19.3% of smoke shop customers (p’s < 0.001). Among those smoking 12 months prior to survey, smoking cessation rates were higher for vape shop (22.2%) and internet customers (22.5%) than for retail customers (10.7%, p = 0.010 and p = 0.022, respectively), even though retail customers were more likely to use FDA-approved smoking cessation aids. The percentage of customers purchasing from vape shops increased from 20.4% in 2014 to 37.6% in 2016, surpassing general retail (27.7%) as the most likely channel in 2016. Conclusions: E-cigarette customers differed in significant ways by channels of purchase, most notably in their smoking cessation behaviors. Previous population studies have relied mostly on retail channel data, which accounted for less than 30% of all products sold by 2016. Future studies of e-cigarette use should consider a broader set of channels.
Are Small Cities More Environmentally Friendly? An Empirical Study from China
Authors: Liu Shuai , Fan Fei , Zhang Jianqing
Published: March 2019

City sizes are rapidly expanding, and urban air pollution is a serious challenge in China. PM2.5 (fine particulate matter) is the primary pollutant of urban pollution. This study aimed to examine the correlations between PM2.5 and city size. In this paper, using the panel data of 278 cities in China from 2007 to 2016, we constructed a static and dynamic panel model based on the STIRPAT (Stochastic Impacts by Regression on Population, Affluence and Technology) analytical framework. We found that there was a significantly inverted N-shaped correlation between PM2.5 and city size. Two inflection points were found at 949,200 and 3,736,100. We found no evidence to support the EKC (Environmental Kuznets Curve) hypothesis, while the “Pollution Haven Hypothesis” gained support. The contradiction between PM2.5 and city size will exist for the long term. Policy recommendations were proposed based on our findings. Controlling the city size does not seem to be necessary for very large cities as they have passed the second inflection point. Cities with a growing population are under great pressure to prevent PM2.5 pollution and need to implement greater measures to reduce pollution.
Parents’ Willingness and Perception of Children’s Autonomy as Predictors of Greater Independent Mobility to School
Authors: Ayllón Ester , Moyano Nieves , Lozano Azucena , Cava María-Jesús
Published: March 2019

The present study aimed to examine the factors associated with different forms of independent mobility (IM) to school (IM one way and IM both ways) according to their parents’ opinions. To do so, several variables were evaluated: how parents assess their children’s autonomy, the difficulty they perceive for IM to school, reasons for IM/no IM to school, parents’ willingness for IM to school, frequency of children’s IM for leisure activities, children having house keys and dangers perceived in the neighborhood. Family-related socio-demographic variables were also assessed: number of children, position occupied by them in the family, family composition, living with both parents or just one, and each parent’s nationality, level of education and job status. This study examined the data collected from 1450 parents (mothers and fathers) with children studying Primary Education years 4, 5 and 6 (M age = 10.53, SD = 0.90). The results showed that 42.3% of the schoolchildren did not practice IM to school, 18.1% practiced IM one way (they went to or from school alone), and 39.5% practiced IM both way (they went to/from school alone). These findings underline the importance of parents’ willingness for IM to school, and how the balance between how they perceive their children’s autonomy and difficulty for IM is relevant for greater IM to school.
Spatiotemporal Data Clustering: A Survey of Methods
Authors: Shi Zhicheng , Pun-Cheng Lilian S.C.
Published: March 2019

Large quantities of spatiotemporal (ST) data can be easily collected from various domains such as transportation, social media analysis, crime analysis, and human mobility analysis. The development of ST data analysis methods can uncover potentially interesting and useful information. Due to the complexity of ST data and the diversity of objectives, a number of ST analysis methods exist, including but not limited to clustering, prediction, and change detection. As one of the most important methods, clustering has been widely used in many applications. It is a process of grouping data with similar spatial attributes, temporal attributes, or both, from which many significant events and regular phenomena can be discovered. In this paper, some representative ST clustering methods are reviewed, most of which are extended from spatial clustering. These methods are broadly divided into hypothesis testing-based methods and partitional clustering methods that have been applied differently in previous research. Research trends and the challenges of ST clustering are also discussed.
A Real-Time and Open Geographic Information System and Its Application for Smart Rivers: A Case Study of the Yangtze River
Authors: Chen Zeqiang , Chen Nengcheng
Published: March 2019

The timely sharing and interoperation of multi-source cross-sectoral information is an important issue for a Geographic Information System (GIS). To study this issue, a real-time and open GIS model called GeoSensor is proposed in this work. GeoSensor integrates the real-time GIS model, real-time computation framework, and Open Geospatial Consortium services. This paper illustrates the system architecture and the implementation methods of the GeoSensor. One of the methods developed is the conceptual mapping of a real-time GIS data model to open GIS models and services and a real-time computation framework. The other method developed is the integration of open GIS services, a real-time computation framework, and hybrid databases. The GeoSensor was tested in a case study of building a smart river. In the case study, a comprehensive sensor web was constructed and integrated with the real-time information on rainfall, beacon, channel, sediment, and water levels derived from space-based sensors, air-borne sensors, and underground sensors from multiple sectors in the Yangtze River basin. The GeoSensor manages the comprehensive sensor web with 32 types of sensors and more than 10 billion observation records. Three application systems were developed based on the GeoSensor to manage flood control, hydropower production, and navigation of the Yangtze River. The results of the three application systems show that the real-time and open system improves the management efficiency of the Yangtze River. This system is promising for managing smart rivers.
Cholesterol and the Safety Factor for Neuromuscular Transmission
Authors: Krivoi Igor I. , Petrov Alexey M.
Published: March 2019

A present review is devoted to the analysis of literature data and results of own research. Skeletal muscle neuromuscular junction is specialized to trigger the striated muscle fiber contraction in response to motor neuron activity. The safety factor at the neuromuscular junction strongly depends on a variety of pre- and postsynaptic factors. The review focuses on the crucial role of membrane cholesterol to maintain a high efficiency of neuromuscular transmission. Cholesterol metabolism in the neuromuscular junction, its role in the synaptic vesicle cycle and neurotransmitter release, endplate electrogenesis, as well as contribution of cholesterol to the synaptogenesis, synaptic integrity, and motor disorders are discussed.
Autophagy in Zika Virus Infection: A Possible Therapeutic Target to Counteract Viral Replication
Authors: Gratton Rossella , Agrelli Almerinda , Tricarico Paola Maura , Brandão Lucas , Crovella Sergio
Published: March 2019

Zika virus (ZIKV) still constitutes a public health concern, however, no vaccines or therapies are currently approved for treatment. A fundamental process involved in ZIKV infection is autophagy, a cellular catabolic pathway delivering cytoplasmic cargo to the lysosome for degradation—considered as a primordial form of innate immunity against invading microorganisms. ZIKV is thought to inhibit the Akt-mTOR signaling pathway, which causes aberrant activation of autophagy promoting viral replication and propagation. It is therefore appealing to study the role of autophagic molecular effectors during viral infection to identify potential targets for anti-ZIKV therapeutic intervention.
CB2 Receptor Stimulation and Dexamethasone Restore the Anti-Inflammatory and Immune-Regulatory Properties of Mesenchymal Stromal Cells of Children with Immune Thrombocytopenia
Authors: Rossi Francesca , Tortora Chiara , Palumbo Giuseppe , Punzo Francesca , Argenziano Maura , Casale Maddalena , Di Paola Alessandra , Locatelli Franco , Perrotta Silverio
Published: March 2019

Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by antibody-mediated platelet destruction, with a complex and unclear pathogenesis. The impaired immunosuppressive capacity of mesenchymal stromal cells in ITP patients (ITP-MSCs) might play a role in the development of the disease. Correcting the MSC defects could represent an alternative therapeutic approach for ITP. High-dose dexamethasone (HD-Dexa) is the mainstay of the ITP therapeutic regimen, although it has several side effects. We previously demonstrated a role for cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) as a mediator of anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory properties of human MSCs. We analyzed the effects of CB2 stimulation, with the selective agonist JWH-133, and of Dexa alone and in combination on ITP-MSC survival and immunosuppressive capacity. We provided new insights into the pathogenesis of ITP, suggesting CB2 receptor involvement in the impairment of ITP-MSC function and confirming MSCs as responsive cellular targets of Dexa. Moreover, we demonstrated that CB2 stimulation and Dexa attenuate apoptosis, via Bcl2 signaling, and restore the immune-modulatory properties of MSCs derived from ITP patients. These data suggest the possibility of using Dexa in combination with JWH-133 in ITP, reducing its dose and side effects but maintaining its therapeutic benefits.
A Novel Specific Anti-CD73 Antibody Inhibits Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cell Motility by Regulating Autophagy
Authors: Qiao Zheng , Li Xiaoping , Kang Nannan , Yang Yue , Chen Chuyuan , Wu Tao , Zhao Mingjun , Liu Yu , Ji Xuemei
Published: March 2019

Increasing researches have focused on cancer metastasis and development. The ectonucleotidase CD73 is one of the most common cell surface enzymes that are involved in immunosuppression. In this study, the recombinant plasmid pET28a-CD73 was constructed and the CD73 protein was overexpressed in E. coli as an inclusion body that was then subjected to refolding. The anti-CD73 monoclonal antibody (3F7) was obtained by hybridoma technology. The antibody subtype was identified as IgG2a with an affinity constant of 5.75 nM. This antibody could be applied to immunofluorescence and flow cytometry. The results showed that the CD73 protein was not only located in the cytoplasm but also distributed on the surface of triple-negative breast cancer cells MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468. Moreover, the level of CD73 protein was associated with the survival rate. Although the anti-CD73 antibody was not able to inhibit tumor cell growth, it could enhance the cytotoxic effect of Doxorubicin to triple-negative breast cancer cells. In vitro function assay results indicated that anti-CD73 mAb could inhibit cell migration and invasion in both human triple-negative breast cancer and mouse 4T1 cell lines. In this process, both the LC3I/LC3II ratio and p62 protein levels increased, which indicated that the blockage of CD73 could inhibit cell autophagy, and cell migration and invasion were restored by rapamycin. In vivo, anti-CD73 mAb could significantly inhibit lung metastasis of 4T1 cells in a mouse xenograft model. Taken together, this novel anti-CD73 antibody could be developed as an adjuvant drug for triple-negative breast cancer therapy and can be useful in tumor diagnosis.
Odonata: Who They Are and What They Have Done for Us Lately: Classification and Ecosystem Services of Dragonflies
Authors: May Michael L.
Published: March 2019

Odonata (dragonflies and damselflies) are well-known but often poorly understood insects. Their phylogeny and classification have proved difficult to understand but, through use of modern morphological and molecular techniques, is becoming better understood and is discussed here. Although not considered to be of high economic importance, they do provide esthetic/spiritual benefits to humans, and may have some impact as predators of disease vectors and agricultural pests. In addition, their larvae are very important as intermediate or top predators in many aquatic ecosystems. More recently, they have been the objects of study that have yielded new information on the mechanics and control of insect flight.
Ground-Coupled Natural Circulating Devices (Thermosiphons): A Review of Modeling, Experimental and Development Studies
Authors: Badache Messaoud , Aidoun Zine , Eslami-Nejad Parham , Blessent Daniela
Published: March 2019

Compared to conventional ground heat exchangers that require a separate pump or other mechanical devices to circulate the heat transfer fluid, ground coupled thermosiphons or naturally circulating ground heat exchangers do not require additional equipment for fluid circulation in the loop. This might lead to a better overall efficiency and much simpler operation. This paper provides a review of the current published literature on the different types of existing ground coupled thermosiphons for use in applications requiring moderate and low temperatures. Effort has been focused on their classification according to type, configurations, major designs, and chronological year of apparition. Important technological findings and characteristics are provided in summary tables. Advances are identified in terms of the latest device developments and innovative concepts of thermosiphon technology used for the heat transfer to and from the soil. Applications are presented in a novel, well-defined classification in which major ground coupled thermosiphon applications are categorized in terms of medium and low temperature technologies. Finally, performance evaluation is meticulously discussed in terms of modeling, simulations, parametric, and experimental studies.
Relationship between a Weighted Multi-Gene Algorithm and Blood Pressure Control in Hypertension
Authors: Phelps Pamela , Kelley Eli , Walla Danielle , Ross Jennifer , Simmons Jerad , Bulock Emma , Ayres Audrie , Akre Monica , Sprissler Ryan , Olson Thomas , Snyder Eric
Published: March 2019

Hypertension (HTN) is a complex disease with interactions among multiple organ systems, including the heart, vasculature, and kidney with a strong heritable component. Despite the multifactorial nature of HTN, no clinical guidelines utilize a multi-gene approach to guide blood pressure (BP) therapy. Non-smokers with a family history of HTN were included in the analysis (n = 384; age = 61.0 ± 0.9, 11% non-white). A total of 17 functional genotypes were weighted according to the previous effect size in the literature and entered into an algorithm. Pharmacotherapy was ranked from 1–4 as most to least likely to respond based on the algorithmic assessment of individual patient’s genotypes. Three-years of data were assessed at six-month intervals for BP and medication history. There was no difference in BP at diagnosis between groups matching the top drug recommendation using the multi-gene weighted algorithm (n = 92) vs. those who did not match (n = 292). However, from diagnosis to nadir, patients who matched the primary recommendation had a significantly greater drop in BP when compared to patients who did not. Further, the difference between diagnosis to current 1-year average BP was lower in the group that matched the top recommendation. These data suggest an association between a weighted multi-gene algorithm on the BP response to pharmacotherapy.
Importance of Completing Hybrid Cardiac Rehabilitation for Long-Term Outcomes: A Real-World Evaluation
Authors: Suskin Neville G. , Shariff Salimah Z. , Garg Amit X. , Reid Jennifer , Unsworth Karen , Prior Peter L. , Alter David
Published: March 2019

Community-based hybrid cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programs offer a viable alternative to conventional centre-based CR, however their long-term benefits are unknown. We conducted a secondary analysis of the CR Participation Study conducted in London, Ontario, between 2003 and 2006. CR eligible patients hospitalized for a major cardiac event, who resided within 60 min, were referred to a hybrid CR program; 381 of 544 (64%) referred patients initiated CR; an additional 1,498 CR eligible patients were not referred due to distance. For the present study, CR participants were matched using propensity scores to CR eligible non-participants who resided beyond 60 min, yielding 214 matched pairs. Subjects were followed for a mean (standard deviation, SD) of 8.56 (3.38) years for the outcomes of mortality or re-hospitalization for a major cardiac event. Hybrid CR participation was associated with a non-significant 16% lower event rate (Hazard Ratio [HR]: 0.84, 95% CI: 0.59–1.17). When restricting to pairs where CR participants achieved a greater than 0.5 metabolic equivalent exercise capacity increase (123 pairs), CR completion was associated with a 51% lower event rate (HR: 0.49, 95% CI: 0.29–0.81). Successful completion of a community-based hybrid CR program may be associated with decreased long-term mortality or recurrent cardiac events.
Regulation of Candida albicans Hyphal Morphogenesis by Endogenous Signals
Authors: Kornitzer Daniel
Published: March 2019

Candida albicans is a human commensal fungus that is able to assume several morphologies, including yeast, hyphal, and pseudohyphal. Under a range of conditions, C. albicans performs a regulated switch to the filamentous morphology, characterized by the emergence of a germ tube from the yeast cell, followed by a mold-like growth of branching hyphae. This transition from yeast to hyphal growth has attracted particular attention, as it has been linked to the virulence of C. albicans as an opportunistic human pathogen. Signal transduction pathways that mediate the induction of the hyphal transcription program upon the imposition of external stimuli have been extensively investigated. However, the hyphal morphogenesis transcription program can also be induced by internal cellular signals, such as inhibition of cell cycle progression, and conversely, the inhibition of hyphal extension can repress hyphal-specific gene expression, suggesting that endogenous cellular signals are able to modulate hyphal gene expression as well. Here we review recent developments in the regulation of the hyphal morphogenesis of C. albicans, with emphasis on endogenous morphogenetic signals.
Designing Carbon Nanotube-Based Oil Absorbing Membranes from Gamma Irradiated and Electrospun Polystyrene Nanocomposites
Authors: Parangusan Hemalatha , Ponnamma Deepalekshmi , Hassan Mohammad K. , Adham Samer , Al-Maadeed Mariam Al Ali
Published: March 2019

Carbon-based materials are outstanding candidates for oil spill clean-ups due to their superhydrophobicity, high surface area, chemical inertness, low density, recyclability, and selectivity. The current work deals with the fabrication of membrane oil absorbents based on carbon nanotube (CNT) reinforced polystyrene (PS) nanocomposites by electrospinning technique. The spun membranes are also irradiated with the gamma radiation to induce enough crosslinks and thus good polymer-filler interactions. The structural, morphological, and surface properties in addition to the oil/water separation efficiency were investigated by varying the concentration of CNT and the dose of γ-irradiation. Fabricated nanofiber membranes show superior hydrophobicity and selective oil absorption at 0.5 wt.% of CNT concentration. The best mechanical properties are also obtained at this particular concentration and at 15 KGy optimum γ-irradiation dosage. The gamma irradiated PS/0.5 wt.% CNT membrane also exhibits good antibacterial effects against the bacteria, Escherichia coli, in the form of bacterial inhibition rings around the membranes. The present study thus shows the environmental applicability of the fabricated PS/CNT membranes in treating oil-contaminated water.
A General Algorithm for the Split Common Fixed Point Problem with Its Applications to Signal Processing
Authors: Jirakitpuwapat Wachirapong , Kumam Poom , Cho Yeol Je , Sitthithakerngkiet Kanokwan
Published: March 2019

In 2014, Cui and Wang constructed an algorithm for demicontractive operators and proved some weak convergence theorems of their proposed algorithm to show the existence of solutions for the split common fixed point problem without using the operator norm. By Cui and Wang’s motivation, in 2015, Boikanyo constructed also a new algorithm for demicontractive operators and obtained some strong convergence theorems for this problem without using the operator norm. In this paper, we consider a viscosity iterative algorithm in Boikanyo’s algorithm to approximate to a solution of this problem and prove some strong convergence theorems of our proposed algorithm to a solution of this problem. Finally, we apply our main results to some applications, signal processing and others and compare our algorithm with five algorithms such as Cui and Wang’s algorithm, Boikanyo’s algorithm, forward-backward splitting algorithm and the fast iterative shrinkage-thresholding algorithm (FISTA).
The Osteogenic Potential of Brown Seaweed Extracts
Authors: Walsh Pamela J. , McGrath Susan , McKelvey Steven , Ford Lauren , Sheldrake Gary , Clarke Susan A.
Published: March 2019

Marine drugs hold significantly more promise than their terrestrial counterparts, which could help to solve the current shortfall in treatments for osteoporosis and other bone related diseases. Fucoxanthin is the main carotenoid found in brown seaweed, and has many perceived health benefits, including potential bone therapeutic properties. This study assessed the osteogenic potential of pure fucoxanthin and crude extracts containing both fucoxanthin and phenolic fractions (also cited to have osteogenic potential) isolated from two intertidal species of brown seaweed, Laminaria digitata and Ascophyllum nodosum. In vitro studies were performed using a human foetal osteoblast cell line (hFOBs) and primary human bone marrow stromal cells (hBMSCs). The results found pure fucoxanthin inhibitory to cell proliferation in hFOBs at higher concentrations, whereas, the crude extracts containing both polyphenols and fucoxanthin showed the ability to scavenge free radicals, which masked this effect. None of the extracts tested showed strong pro-osteogenic effects in either cell type tested, failing to support previously reported positive effects.
Investigating the Mechanism for the Enhanced Oxidation Stability of Microencapsulated Omega-3 Concentrates
Authors: Xia Qiuyu , Akanbi Taiwo O. , Wang Bo , Li Rui , Yang Wenrong , Barrow Colin J.
Published: March 2019

Enzymatically concentrated anchovy oil (concentrate) is known to be much less stable than unconcentrated anchovy oil. However, we previously showed that concentrate surprisingly forms more stable microcapsules, when produced by complex coacervation, than does unconcentrated anchovy oil. Here we investigate the mechanism of this unexpected stability. We also investigate whether or not incorporation of concentrate can be used as an additive to improve the stability of unconcentrated anchovy oil microcapsules. Results showed that microcap stability increased as the amount of added concentrate increased. Decreased emulsion droplet size, lower positively charged zeta potential, and higher surface hydrophobicity were observed in the oil/water (O/W) emulsion, with the incorporation of concentrate in the oil phase, compared with the unconcentrated anchovy oil O/W emulsion. Both the decreased zeta potential and the increased hydrophobicity of concentrate in the mixed oil phase may improve droplet agglomeration, leading to enhanced oxidative stability of the concentrate-containing microcapsules. Decreased repulsive forces between droplets result in a more compact structure, thicker outer shell, and smoother surface, resulting in enhanced oxidation stability of the concentrate-containing microcapsules.
The Membrane-Active Phytopeptide Cycloviolacin O2 Simultaneously Targets HIV-1-infected Cells and Infectious Viral Particles to Potentiate the Efficacy of Antiretroviral Drugs
Authors: Gerlach Samantha L. , Chandra Partha K. , Roy Upal , Gunasekera Sunithi , Göransson Ulf , Wimley William C. , Braun Stephen E. , Mondal Debasis
Published: March 2019

Background: Novel strategies to increase the efficacy of antiretroviral (ARV) drugs will be of crucial importance. We hypothesize that membranes of HIV-1-infected cells and enveloped HIV-1 particles may be preferentially targeted by the phytopeptide, cycloviolacin O2 (CyO2) to significantly enhance ARV efficacy. Methods: Physiologically safe concentrations of CyO2 were determined via red blood cell (RBC) hemolysis. SYTOX-green dye-uptake and radiolabeled saquinavir (3H-SQV) uptake assays were used to measure pore-formation and drug uptake, respectively. ELISA, reporter assays and ultracentrifugation were conducted to analyze the antiviral efficacy of HIV-1 protease and fusion inhibitors alone and co-exposed to CyO2. Results: CyO2 concentrations below 0.5 μM did not show substantial hemolytic activity, yet these concentrations enabled rapid pore-formation in HIV-infected T-cells and monocytes and increased drug uptake. ELISA for HIV-1 p24 indicated that CyO2 enhances the antiviral efficacy of both SQV and nelfinavir. CyO2 (< 0.5 μM) alone decreases HIV-1 p24 production, but it did not affect the transcription regulatory function of the HIV-1 long terminal repeat (LTR). Ultracentrifugation studies clearly showed that CyO2 exposure disrupted viral integrity and decreased the p24 content of viral particles. Furthermore, direct HIV-1 inactivation by CyO2 enhanced the efficacy of enfuvirtide. Conclusions: The membrane-active properties of CyO2 may help suppress viral load and augment antiretroviral drug efficacy.
Kampo Therapies and the Use of Herbal Medicines in the Dentistry in Japan
Authors: Watanabe Shuji , Toyama Toshizo , Sato Takenori , Suzuki Mitsuo , Morozumi Akira , Sakagami Hiroshi , Hamada Nobushiro
Published: March 2019

Dental caries and periodontal disease are two major diseases in the dentistry. As the society is aging, their pathological meaning has been changing. An increasing number of patients are displaying symptoms of systemic disease and so we need to pay more attention to immunologic aggression in our medical treatment. For this reason, we focused on natural products. Kampo consists of natural herbs—roots and barks—and has more than 3000 years of history. It was originated in China as traditional medicine and introduced to Japan. Over the years, Kampo medicine in Japan has been formulated in a way to suit Japan’s natural features and ethnic characteristics. Based on this traditional Japanese Kampo medicine, we have manufactured a Kampo gargle and Mastic Gel dentifrice. In order to practically utilize the effectiveness of mastic, we have developed a dentifrice (product name: IMPLA CARE) and treated implant periodontitis and severe periodontitis.
The Effects of Cold Arm Width and Metal Deposition on the Performance of a U-Beam Electrothermal MEMS Microgripper for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Cauchi Marija , Grech Ivan , Mallia Bertram , Mollicone Pierluigi , Sammut Nicholas
Published: March 2019

Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) have established themselves within various fields dominated by high-precision micromanipulation, with the most distinguished sectors being the microassembly, micromanufacturing and biomedical ones. This paper presents a horizontal electrothermally actuated ‘hot and cold arm’ microgripper design to be used for the deformability study of human red blood cells (RBCs). In this study, the width and layer composition of the cold arm are varied to investigate the effects of dimensional and material variation of the cold arm on the resulting temperature distribution, and ultimately on the achieved lateral displacement at the microgripper arm tips. The cold arm widths investigated are 14 μ m, 30 μ m, 55 μ m, 70 μ m and 100 μ m. A gold layer with a thin chromium adhesion promoter layer is deposited on the top surface of each of these cold arms to study its effect on the performance of the microgripper. The resultant ten microgripper design variants are fabricated using a commercially available MEMS fabrication technology known as a silicon-on-insulator multi-user MEMS process (SOIMUMPs)™. This process results in an overhanging 25 μ m thick single crystal silicon microgripper structure having a low aspect ratio (width:thickness) value compared to surface micromachined structures where structural thicknesses are of the order of 2 μ m. Finite element analysis was used to numerically model the microgripper structures and coupled electrothermomechanical simulations were implemented in CoventorWare ® . The numerical simulations took into account the temperature dependency of the coefficient of thermal expansion, the thermal conductivity and the electrical conductivity properties in order to achieve more reliable results. The fabricated microgrippers were actuated under atmospheric pressure and the experimental results achieved through optical microscopy studies conformed with those predicted by the numerical models. The gap opening and the temperature rise at the cell gripping zone were also compared for the different microgripper structures in this work, with the aim of identifying an optimal microgripper design for the deformability characterisation of RBCs.
Characterization of Antimicrobial Resistance in Serratia spp. and Citrobacter spp. Isolates from Companion Animals in Japan: Nosocomial Dissemination of Extended-Spectrum Cephalosporin-Resistant Citrobacter freundii
Authors: Harada Kazuki , Shimizu Takae , Ozaki Hiroichi , Kimura Yui , Miyamoto Tadashi , Tsuyuki Yuzo
Published: March 2019

In many countries including Japan, the status of emerging antimicrobial resistance among Serratia spp. and Citrobacter spp. in companion animals remains unknown because these genera are rarely isolated from animals. In this study, 30 Serratia spp. and 23 Citrobacter spp. isolates from companion animals underwent susceptibility testing for 10 antimicrobials. Phenotypic and genetic approaches were used to identify the mechanisms of extended-spectrum cephalosporins (ESC). Subsequently, ESC-resistant Citrobacter spp. strains underwent multilocus sequence typing and pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). A significantly higher rate (34.8%) of ESC resistance was observed in Citrobacter spp. isolates than in Serratia spp. isolates (0%). ESC resistance was detected in five C. freundii strains, two C. portucalensis strains, and one C. koseri strain. All of the ESC-resistant Citrobacter spp. strains harbored CMY-type and/or DHA-type AmpC β-lactamases. Three C. freundii strains harbored the CTX-M-3-type extended-spectrum β-lactamases. Notably, the three blaCTX-3-producing and two blaCMY-117-bearing C. freundii strains (obtained from different patients in one hospital) had the same sequence type (ST156 and ST18, respectively) and similar PFGE profiles. We believe that ESC-resistant Citrobacter spp. are important nosocomial pathogens in veterinary medicine. Therefore, infection control in animal hospitals is essential to prevent dissemination of these resistant pathogens.
Probiotics and Colon Cancer
Authors: Drago Lorenzo
Published: March 2019

Literature has recently highlighted the enormous scientific interest on the relationship between the gut microbiota and colon cancer, and how the use of some selected probiotics can have a future impact on the adverse events which occur during this disease. Although there is no clear evidence to claim that probiotics are effective in people with cancer, recent reviews have found that probiotics can significantly reduce the incidence of diarrhea and the average frequency of daily bowel movements. However, most of this evidence needs to be more clinically convincing and further discussed. Undoubtedly, some probiotics, when properly dosed and administered, can have a strong rebalance effect on the gut microbiota and as a consequence a possible positive action on immune modulation of the gastrointestinal tract and on inflammation of the intestinal mucosa. Many recent findings indeed support the hypothesis that the daily use of some selected probiotics can be a feasible approach to effectively protect patients against the risk of some severe consequences due to radiation therapy or chemotherapy. This paper aims to review the most recent articles in order to consider a possible adjuvant approach for the use of certain well-balanced probiotics to help prevent colon cancer and the adverse effects caused by related therapies.