bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unsupervised Feature Learning in Time Series Prediction Using Continuous Deep Belief Network
Authors: Chen Qili , Pan Guangyuan , Yu Ming , Wang Jiuhe
Published: October 2018

A continuous Deep Belief Network (cDBN) with two hidden layers is proposed in this paper, focusing on the problem of weak feature learning ability when dealing with continuous data. In cDBN, the input data is trained in an unsupervised way by using continuous version of transfer functions, the contrastive divergence is designed in hidden layer training process to raise convergence speed, an improved dropout strategy is then implemented in unsupervised training to realize features learning by de-cooperating between the units, and then the network is fine-tuned using back propagation algorithm. Besides, hyper-parameters are analysed through stability analysis to assure the network can find the optimal. Finally, the experiments on Lorenz chaos series, CATS benchmark and other real world like CO2 and waste water parameters forecasting show that cDBN has the advantage of higher accuracy, simpler structure and faster convergence speed than other methods.
Synthesis and Characterization of Multifunctional Chiral and Photoactive Organic-Inorganic Block Copolymers of Poly(methylphenylsilane) with (R)-N-(1-phenylethyl)methacrylamide, Disperse Red 1 Methacrylate and Their optical and Photophysical Properties
Authors: Meenu K. , Bag Dibyendu S. , Lagarkha Rekha , Tomar Radha , Gupta Arvind Kumar
Published: October 2018

Now-a-days, the thrust area of materials’ research is to develop multifunctional materials, which have multiple properties in a single functional material. We are interested to develop multifunctional polysilanes having special functional properties such as optical activity and photoluminescence (PL) properties. In this investigation, poly(methyl phenyl silane) (PMPS) was integrated with a chiral unit and a photoactive unit by in situ photopolymerization of  (R)-N-(1-phenyl ethyl) methacrylamide (R-NPEMAM) and disperse red 1 methacrylate (DR1MA) monomer in the presence of PMPS. PMPS acted as a macrophotoinitiator and by UV exposure it produced macroradicals which initiated polymerization of chiral and photoactive monomers. Thus a block copolymer of PMPS-b-(R-NPEMAM-ran-DR1MA) was synthesized.The synthesized multifunctional organic inorganic hybrid polymer samples were characterized by FTIR and NMR spectroscopy. The molecular weights of the samples were measured by GPC analysis. The optical, chiroptical and photoluminescence properties were studied. The narrow band at about 1638 cm-1 is due to C=O stretching vibration of -CONH- of the chiral unit.  A wide absorption peaks at 3444 cm-1 is the characteristic of NH trans stretching vibration of secondary amide group. The asymmetric stretching of NO2 group appeared at 1481 cm-1 and the characteristic peak at 1427 cm-1 was observed due to azo (-N=N-) group stretching of DR1MA unit. The Si-Si band of PMPS appeared at about 462 cm-1 in FTIR spectra. The optical absorbance observed at 272 nm is due to π-π* transition of aromatic ring and at 330 nm corresponds to σ-σ* transition of Si-Si bond. The other electronic absorption observed in the visible region at 475 nm corresponds to the combined contribution of n-π* and π-π* transition of DR1MA unit. The photoluminescence properties of such polymers were studied for the variation of concentration of the polymer solution and variation with excitation energy such as 275 nm, 325 nm and 475 nm in THF solvent. Such synthesized multifunctional photoactive organic-inorganic polymers having unusual optical, chiroptical and photoluminescence property may find novel optoelectronic (friend foe identification and secretive code identification) applications.
Discussion on the Peak Shift of Α-Ti Phase in Tio2 Nanostructured Coatings on Ti-6Al-4V Alloy
Authors: Nguyen Linh , Jiang Zhong-Tao , Kim Jaegyu , Hong Seungbum , No Kwangsoo
Published: October 2018

In this study, TiO2 nanostructured coatings on Ti-6A-4V alloys were fabricated by two methods: H2O2 oxidation and RF sputtering. In the annealing temperature range of 25 C - 500 C, there were the peaks at 35, 37, 40 and 52 corresponding to {100}, {002}, {101} and {102} crystal planes of hcp structure of α-Ti. At the annealing temperature of 600 C, there was the presence of peaks corresponding to crystal planes of anatase and rutile TiO2. The relative intensities of anatase and rutile phases of the sample fabricated by RF sputtering were 3.62 and 10.25 %, respectively; while those of the sample fabricated by H2O2 oxidation were 21.27 and 3.20 %, respectively (The relative intensity of α-Ti phase was 100 %). The results investigated the peak shift of α-Ti phase in TiO2/Ti-6Al-4V nanostructured coatings fabricated by the two methods which was reasonably explained from the difference in the thermal expansion coefficients of Ti alloy and TiO2 components, as well as the difference in the ratio of anatase to rutile phases.
PZT/PZT and PZT/BiT Composite Piezo-Sensors in Aerospace SHM Applications: Photochemical Metal Organic+Infiltration Deposition and Characterization
Authors: Hoshyarmanesh Hamidreza , Ebrahimi Nafiseh , Jafari Amir , Hoshyarmanesh Parisa , Park Hyung-Ho
Published: October 2018

The composition of fine-ground lead zirconate-titanate powder Pb(Zr0.52Ti0.48)O3, suspended in PZT and bismuth titanate (BiT) solutions, is deposited on the curved surface of IN718 and IN738 nickel-based supper alloy substrates up to 100 µm thickness. Photochemical metal organic and infiltration techniques are implemented to produce smooth, semi-dense, and crack-free random orientated thick piezoelectric films as piezo-sensors, free of any dopants or thickening polymers. Every single layer of the deposited films is heated at 200 °C with 10 wt.% excess PbO, irradiated by UV lamp (365 nm, 6 watt) for 10 minutes, pyrolyzed at 400 °C, and subsequently annealed at 700 °C for one hour. This process is repeated successively until reaching the desired thickness. Au and Pt thin films are deposited as the bottom and top electrodes using evaporation and sputtering methods, respectively. PZT/PZT and PZT/BiT composite films are then characterized and compared to similar PZT and BiT thick films deposited on the similar substrates. The effect of composition and deposition process is also investigated on the crystalline phase development and microstructure morphology as well as dielectric, ferroelectric and piezoelectric properties of piezo-films. The maximum remnant polarization of Pr = 22.37 ± 0.01, 30.01 ± 0.01 µC/cm2, the permittivity of εr = 298 ± 3, 566 ± 5 and piezoelectric charge coefficient of d33 = 126, 148 m/V were measured versus the minimum coercive field of Ec = 50, 20 kV/cm for the PZT/PZT and PZT/Bit thick films, respectively. The thick film piezo-sensors are developed to be potentially used at frequency bandwidth of 1–5 MHz for rotary structural health monitoring and also in other industrial or medical applications as a transceiver.
Protective Effect of Pyrogallol-phloroglucinol-6,6-bieckol from Ecklonia cava on Monocyte-Associated Vascular Dysfunction
Authors: Oh Seyeon , Son Myeongjoo , Lee Hye Sun , Kim Hyun-Soo , Jeon You-Jin , Byun Kyunghee
Published: October 2018

Ecklonia cava (E.cava) can alleviate vascular dysfunction in diseases associated with poor circulation. E. cava contains various polyphenols with different functions, but few studies have compared the effects of these polyphenols. Here, we comparatively investigated four major compounds present in an ethanoic extract of E. cava. These four major compounds were isolated and their effects were examined on monocyte-associated vascular inflammation and dysfunctions. Pyrogallol-phloroglucinol-6,6-bieckol (PPB) significantly inhibited monocyte migration in vitro by reducing levels of inflammatory macrophage differentiation and of its related molecular factors. In addition, PPB protected against monocyte-associated endothelial cell death by increasing the phosphorylations of PI3K-AKT and AMPK, decreasing caspase levels, and reducing monocyte-associated vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation and migration by decreasing the phosphorylations of ERK and AKT. The results of this study show that four compounds were effective for reduction of monocyte-associated vascular inflammation and dysfunctions, but PPB might be more useful for the treatment of vascular dysfunction in diseases associated with poor circulation.
Tulsi - An Alternative Livelihood for the Poor and Smallholder Farmers
Authors: Shah Ghulam-Muhammad , Ahmad Farid , Panwar Shailesh , Khadka Manber , Ali Ajaz , Bisht Suman
Published: October 2018

This study assesses the pursued impacts of Tulsi value chain development intervention on the livelihoods of rural poor in Uttarakhand state of India. Tulsi as an alternative livelihood, particularly for the rural poor, is less explored. With increased crop depredation of major cereal crops grown in the district by wild animals and pests, and decreasing availability of water agriculture, attempts were made to improve earnings from Tulsi as an alternative livelihood. Findings suggest that the average households’ gross profit from Tulsi farming increases by more than double within a span of two years. Total crop income of beneficiary farmers’ increases by 0.8 percent for every 1 percent increase in Tulsi income. Intervention helped enhance productivity of Tulsi, thereby enhancing earnings from Tulsi farming. Most importantly, intervention has shown a tremendous adoption rate. Towards the end of the intervention, the value chain work was out-scaled to another 19 villages in Chamoli district, thereby reaching out to more than 400 households.
DAILY COPING BEHAVIOR PADA KELOMPOK MAHASISWA PENDIDIKAN VOKASIONAL KESEJAHTERAAN KELUARGA UNIVERSITAS NEGERI JAKARTA DALAM PRAKTEK MANAJEMEN SUMBERDAYA KELUARGA
Authors: Prasetyo Dimas Teguh
Published: October 2018

The Family Resources Management Program is one of the compulsory subjects for specialization in family science in the study program of Family Welfare Vocational Education, Jakarta State University. MSDK courses apply a high level of discipline and professionalism. The group of students in charge is required to comply with all the rules of the MSDK Laboratorium. The group of students participating in MSDK requires good management of stress and problem solving. It is necessary because every day they will find sources of stress ranging from differences in personality of one group, interpersonal relationships between MSDK members to differences in habits that are often displayed in their homes. Therefore, coping behavior will assist students in managing stress resources while at the MSDK Laboratorium. The purpose of this study was to find out and analyze coping strategies of students of PVKK UNJ who were taking the MSDK program. The results show that they were more use relaxation and catharsis coping strategies to reduce the source of stress during the MSDK program. Meanwhile, limitation and recommendations will be discussed further in this study.

Abstrak:

Program Manajemen Sumber Daya Keluarga merupakan salah satu mata kuliah wajib peminatan ilmu keluarga di program studi Pendidikan Vokasional Kesejahteraan Keluarga Universitas Negeri Jakarta. Mata kuliah MSDK menerapkan tingkat kedisiplinan serta profesionalitas yang tinggi. Kelompok mahasiswa yang bertugas diwajibkan mematuhi segala peraturan Lab MSDK. Kelompok mahasiswa yang mengikuti MSDK memerlukan pengelolaan stress dan pemecahan masalah yang baik. Hal tersebut diperlukan karena setiap harinya mereka akan menemukan sumber-sumber stres mulai dari perbedaan kepribadian teman satu kelompoknya, hubungan interpersonal antar anggota MSDK hingga perbedaan kebiasaan yang sering ditampilkan didalam rumah masing-masing. Oleh karena itu, perilaku coping akan membantu para mahasiswa dalam mengelola sumber stress selama berada di Lab MSDK. Tujuan dari penelitian ini untuk mengetahui dan menganalisis strategi koping para mahasiswa PVKK UNJ yang sedang mengikuti program MSDK. Adapun hasil menunjukan bahwa mahasiswa lebih banyak menggunakan strategi koping relaksasi dan katarsis untuk mengurangi adanya sumber stress selama program MSDK. Sementara itu, limitasi dan rekomendasi akan dibahas lebih lanjut dalam studi ini.
Abd Shamad al-Palimbani’s Concept of Islamic Education: Analysis on Kitab Hidayah al-Sālikin fi Suluk Māsālāk lil Muttāqin
Authors: Alhamuddin Alhamuddin
Published: October 2018

This paper is an academic effort to explain some aspects of the concept of Islamic education thought Syaikh Abd al-Samad Palimbani (1714-1782 M). As a descriptive qualitative study, the main data in this study were obtained from a number of his works, especially from kitab Hidayah al-Sālikin. It’s contrast to the others previous scholars’ contemporaries, Hidayah al-Sālikin is unique work of Abd Shamad, especially in his approach. In these works Abd Shamad  attempted to explain jurisprudent aspects using Sufism approach. This research analyses some aspects of Abd Shamad’s concept of Islamic education thoughts. According to him, Islamic education aims are to produce a good human being and to achieve happiness by getting close to God. Based on the conducted research, some recommendations for further researcher, it is suggested to investigate this issue more specifically and comprehensively.
Factors Influencing Muslims Compliance Behavior in Paying Zakah of Income: A Case Study in Jayapura (A Non-Muslim Region in Indonesia)
Authors: Pratiwi Ira Eka
Published: October 2018

Indonesia is the forth largest population country and one of the most populous Muslims countries in the world. However, there are some regions in the eastern Indonesia that have small number of Muslims citizen, including Papua Province.  This research aims to examine the factors affecting Muslims’ compliance behavior in paying Zakah of income in Jayapura, a capital city of Papua Province, using Theory of Planned Behavior. Factors examined include attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioral control and intention. This research used quantitative method with questionnaire as the instrument to collect the data. In this study, a total of 52 Muslims in Jayapura who had ever paid Zakah of income become the respondents. This research used multiple linear regressions to analyze the collected data with SPSS 19. After meeting the reliability and validity test, the result showed that subjective norm and perceived behavioral control significantly affected the Muslims’ intention in paying zakah of income, meanwhile attitude did not influence the Jayapura Muslims’ compliance behavior and it was affected significantly by their intention in paying Zakah of income and perceived behavior control. In general, the Theory of Planned Behavior can be used to determine Muslims’ compliance in paying Zakah.
Estimated Prevalence of Opioid Use Disorder in Massachusetts, 2011–2015: A Capture–Recapture Analysis
Authors: Barocas Joshua A. , White Laura F. , Wang Jianing , Walley Alexander Y. , LaRochelle Marc R. , Bernson Dana , Land Thomas , Morgan Jake R. , Samet Jeffrey H. , Linas Benjamin P.
Published: October 2018

Objectives. To estimate the annual prevalence of opioid use disorder (OUD) in Massachusetts from 2011 to 2015.

Methods. We performed a multisample stratified capture–recapture analysis to estimate OUD prevalence in Massachusetts. Individuals identified from 6 administrative databases for 2011 to 2012 and 7 databases for 2013 to 2015 were linked at the individual level and included in the analysis. Individuals were stratified by age group, sex, and county of residence.

Results. The OUD prevalence in Massachusetts among people aged 11 years or older was 2.72% in 2011 and 2.87% in 2012. Between 2013 and 2015, the prevalence increased from 3.87% to 4.60%. The greatest increase in prevalence was observed among those in the youngest age group (11–25 years), a 76% increase from 2011 to 2012 and a 42% increase from 2013 to 2015.

Conclusions. In Massachusetts, the OUD prevalence was 4.6% among people 11 years or older in 2015. The number of individuals with OUD is likely increasing, particularly among young people.
The 20 Most Important and Most Preventable Health Problems of China: A Delphi Consultation of Chinese Experts
Authors: Wu Yangfeng , Jin Aoming , Xie Gaoqiang , Wang Lei , Liu Kaitai , Jia Guang , Liang Xiaofeng , Xu Jianguo
Published: October 2018

Objectives. To identify the 20 most important and most preventable health problems that should be addressed in the next 20 years in China.

Methods. In 2015, we applied a modified electronic Delphi technique to reach consensus from a panel of top Chinese health experts (n = 70), who were requested to identify 20 health problems that, in their judgment, were most important and preventable. We also compared the results with evidences from epidemiological studies on disease-specific mortalities and disability-adjusted life years.

Results. Consensus was reached after the second-round survey. The final agreed-upon 20 most important and most preventable health problems included 9 noncommunicable diseases, 4 communicable diseases, 2 unhealthy behaviors, and 2 forms of environmental pollution, plus depression, road injury, and contamination of food with pesticides, antibiotics, and hormone residues. The results are supported by relevant epidemiological studies in China.

Conclusions. The 20 most important and most preventable health problems in China for the next 20 years, agreed upon by a panel of top Chinese health experts, should be taken into consideration in national policymaking.
Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Attitudes and Consumption During the First 1000 Days of Life
Authors: Woo Baidal Jennifer A. , Morel Kayla , Nichols Kelsey , Elbel Erin , Charles Nalini , Goldsmith Jeff , Chen Ling , Taveras Elsie
Published: October 2018

Objectives. To examine the relationship of parental sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) attitudes with SSB consumption during the first 1000 days of life—gestation to age 2 years.

Methods. We studied 394 Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)–enrolled families during the first 1000 days of life in northern Manhattan, New York, in 2017. In regression models, we assessed cross-sectional relationships of parental SSB attitude scores with habitual daily parent SSB calories and infant SSB consumption, adjusting for demographic and socioeconomic characteristics.

Results. Each point higher parental SSB attitude score was associated with lower parental SSB consumption (–14.5 median kcals; 95% confidence interval [CI] = −22.6, −6.4). For infants, higher parental SSB attitude score was linked with lower odds of infant SSB consumption (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.84; 95% CI = 0.71, 0.99), and adjustment for socioeconomic factors slightly attenuated results (AOR = 0.85; 95% CI = 0.71, 1.02).

Conclusions. During the first 1000 days of life, greater negativity in parental attitudes toward SSB consumption was associated with fewer parental calories consumed from SSBs and lower likelihood of infant SSB consumption.

Public Health Implications. Parental attitudes toward SSBs should be targeted in future childhood obesity interventions during pregnancy and infancy.
Responsible Research With Urban American Indians and Alaska Natives
Authors: James Rosalina D. , West Kathleen M. , Claw Katrina G. , EchoHawk Abigail , Dodge Leah , Dominguez Adrian , Taualii Maile , Forquera Ralph , Thummel Kenneth , Burke Wylie
Published: October 2018

American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) communities harbor understandable mistrust of research. Outside researchers have historically controlled processes, promulgating conclusions and recommended policies with virtually no input from the communities studied.

Reservation-based communities can apply sovereignty rights conferred by the federal government to change this research trajectory. Many tribes now require review and approval before allowing research activities to occur, in part through the development of regulatory codes and oversight measures. Tribal oversight ensures that research is directed toward questions of importance to the community and that results are returned in ways that optimize problem solving. Unfortunately, tribal governance protections do not always extend to AI/ANs residing in urban environments.

Although they represent the majority of AI/ANs, urban Indians face an ongoing struggle for visibility and access to health care. It is against this backdrop that urban Indians suffer disproportionate health problems. Improved efforts to ensure responsible research with urban Indian populations requires attention to community engagement, research oversight, and capacity building. We consider strategies to offset these limitations and develop a foundation for responsible research with urban Indians.
Isometric Contraction of the Quadriceps Improves the Accuracy of Intra-Articular Injections into the Knee Joint via the Superolateral Approach
Authors: Wada Makoto , Fujii Tadashi , Inagaki Yusuke , Nagano Tatsuo , Tanaka Yasuhito
Published: October 2018

Background:

Intra-articular injection is an important technique for treating rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis of the knee. However, medication is often inaccurately injected outside of the joint. We devised an intra-articular injection method in which the needle is inserted into the suprapatellar bursa while the patient maintains isometric contraction of the quadriceps. This isometric contraction method is based on the concept that isometric contraction of the quadriceps induces contraction of the articularis genus muscle, thus expanding the lumen of the suprapatellar bursa.

Methods:

Intra-articular injections were performed on 150 osteoarthritic knees without effusion. The knees were alternately assigned to the isometric quadriceps method group (75 knees) and non-activated quadriceps method group (75 knees). Prior to joint injection, the anterior-posterior dimension of each suprapatellar bursa was measured to ascertain its expansion. The isometric quadriceps method was performed with the quadriceps and the articularis genus muscle maintained in a contracted state. The non-activated quadriceps method was performed in a relaxed state. Ultrasound guidance was not used for either method. Subsequently, an ultrasonic probe was used only to confirm whether the intra-articular injections were successful. We compared the accuracy of injections performed between the 2 groups.

Results:

Suprapatellar expansion was significantly larger (p < 0.001) using the isometric quadriceps method (2.1 ± 1.4 mm [range, 0 to 5 mm]) than using the non-activated quadriceps method (0.8 ± 0.7 mm [range, 0 to 2 mm]). The percentage of accurate intra-articular injections was significantly higher (p = 0.0287) using the isometric quadriceps method (93%) compared with the non-activated quadriceps method (80%).

Conclusions:

In comparison with the non-activated quadriceps method, the isometric quadriceps method led to a larger expansion of the suprapatellar bursa, which should lead to more accurate intra-articular injections. The isometric quadriceps method is effective in reducing inaccurate injections into the synovium or surrounding fatty tissues.

Clinical Relevance:

Putting force on the quadriceps muscle increases the success rate of intra-articular injection of the knee. The results of this study could provide a clinically relevant injection technique for future treatment.
Reliability of the Modified Clavien-Dindo-Sink Complication Classification System in Pediatric Orthopaedic Surgery
Authors: Dodwell Emily R. , Pathy Rubini , Widmann Roger F. , Green Daniel W. , Scher David M. , Blanco John S. , Doyle Shevaun M. , Daluiski Aaron , Sink Ernest L.
Published: October 2018

Background:

There is no standardized complication classification system that has been evaluated for use in pediatric or general orthopaedic surgery. Instead, subjective terms such as major and minor are commonly used. The Clavien-Dindo-Sink complication classification system has demonstrated high interrater and intrarater reliability for hip-preservation surgery and has increasingly been used within other orthopaedic subspecialties. This classification system is based on the magnitude of treatment required and the potential for each complication to result in long-term morbidity. The purpose of the current study was to modify the Clavien-Dindo-Sink system for application to all orthopaedic procedures (including those involving the spine and the upper and lower extremity) and to determine interrater and intrarater reliability of this modified system in pediatric orthopaedic surgery cases.

Methods:

The Clavien-Dindo-Sink complication classification system was modified for use with general orthopaedic procedures. Forty-five pediatric orthopaedic surgical scenarios were presented to 7 local fellowship-trained pediatric orthopaedic surgeons at 1 center to test internal reliability, and 48 scenarios were then presented to 15 pediatric orthopaedic surgeons across the United States and Canada to test external reliability. Surgeons were trained to use the system and graded the scenarios in a random order on 2 occasions. Fleiss and Cohen kappa (κ) statistics were used to determine interrater and intrarater reliabilities, respectively.

Results:

The Fleiss κ value for interrater reliability (and standard error) was 0.76 ± 0.01 (p < 0.0001) and 0.74 ± 0.01 (p < 0.0001) for the internal and external groups, respectively. For each grade, interrater reliability was good to excellent for both groups, with an overall range of 0.53 for Grade I to 1 for Grade V. The Cohen κ value for intrarater reliability was excellent for both groups, ranging from 0.83 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.71 to 0.95) to 0.98 (95% CI, 0.94 to 1.00) for the internal test group and from 0.83 (95% CI, 0.73 to 0.93) to 0.99 (95% CI, 0.97 to 1.00) for the external test group.

Conclusions:

The modified Clavien-Dindo-Sink classification system has good interrater and excellent intrarater reliability for the evaluation of complications following pediatric orthopaedic upper extremity, lower extremity, and spine surgery. Adoption of this reproducible, reliable system as a standard of reporting complications in pediatric orthopaedic surgery, and other orthopaedic subspecialties, could be a valuable tool for improving surgical practices and patient outcomes.
Revisiting Orthopaedic Surgery Residents’ Views of the CDC and AAOS Precautionary Guidelines for HIV
Authors: Schwarzman Garrett , Rybalko Dan , Danilkowicz Richard , Hutchinson Mark
Published: October 2018

Background:

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate how orthopaedic residents’ views and behaviors toward the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) have changed over the past 25 years.

Methods:

Between May 2017 and June 2017, an electronic survey was distributed to residents who were enrolled orthopaedic residency programs in the United States. The survey included questions based on the revised 2012 American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines for HIV, hepatitis B virus (HBV), and hepatitis C virus (HCV) transmission prevention. Every program in the United States was contacted to avoid selection bias. Categorical data were analyzed with use of the chi-square goodness-of-fit test for the comparison of current and historical results. The null hypothesis of no change between survey results in 1992 and 2016 was set at p > 0.05. Numerical data were analyzed with use of the chi-square goodness-of-fit test with subsequent p value calculations to determine deviation from expected values between the 2 study years.

Results:

The present study demonstrated that there have been compelling changes in residents’ attitudes and behaviors with respect to HIV. Current residents are more aware of and compliant with their institutional safety protocols. They are also more accepting of treating HIV-positive patients. However, current residents underestimate the risk of HIV transmission from needle-stick injury and are less aware of proper timing for post-exposure prophylactic medication administration.

Conclusions:

The present study indicates that there has been a compelling positive change in perception and prevention of HIV transmission by orthopaedic residents in the past 25 years but that there is still room for improvement.
Safety and efficacy of Curcumin versus Diclofenac in Knee Osteoarthritis: a randomized open label parallel arm study
Authors: Shep Dhaneshwar , Khanwelkar Chitra , Gade Prakashchandra , Karad Satyanand
Published: October 2018

Background

To compare the efficacy and safety of curcumin with diclofenac in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

In this randomized, open label, parallel, active controlled clinical study, 139 patients of OA knee were randomized to receive either Curcumin 500 mg (Curcugreen®) capsule thrice daily or diclofenac 50 mg tablet twice daily for 28 days. Patients underwent assessment at baseline, day 7 day 14 and day 28. Primary efficacy measures were severity of pain (Visual Analogue Scale) and the Knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome score (KOOS) subscale at day 14 and day 28. Anti-flatulent effect (at day 7), anti-ulcer effect, weight lowering effect, patient and physician’s global assessment of therapy at day 28 were included as secondary endpoints. Safety after treatment was evaluated by recording adverse events and laboratory investigation.

Results

Both treatment groups showed similar improvement in primary endpoints at each evaluation visit. Patients receiving curcumin showed similar improvement in severity of pain and KOOS scale when compared to diclofenac, and the difference was not statistically significant (p>0.05). The patients treated with curcumin experienced significantly greater reduction in number of episodes of flatulence compared with diclofenac (p<0.0001). Similar trend was observed for weight lowering effect of curcumin (p<0.0001) and anti-ulcer effect. None of the patients required H2 Blockers in Curcumin group and 19 patients required H2 blockers in Diclofenac group (0% Vs 28%, respectively; p <0.00001). Adverse effects were significantly less in curcumin group (13% vs. 38% in diclofenac group; p=0.0015). Patient’s and physician’s global assessment of therapy was similar towards both the treatment.

Conclusion

Curcumin has similar efficacy, but better tolerated than diclofenac among patients with OA of knee. Curcumin can be an alternative treatment option in the patients of OA of knee who are intolerant to the side effects of NSAIDS.

Trial Registration

ISRCTN, ISRCTN10074826, Registered 21 November 2017 - Retrospectively registered, http://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN10074826
Breeding Trait Priorities of the Cranberry Industry in the United States and Canada
Authors: Gallardo R. Karina , Klingthong Parichat , Zhang Qi , Polashock James , Atucha Amaya , Zalapa Juan , Rodriguez-Saona Cesar , Vorsa Nicholi , Iorizzo Massimo
Published: October 2018

Informed assessment of priority genetic traits in plant breeding programs is important to improve the efficiency of developing cultivars suited to current climate and industry needs. The efficiency of genetic improvement is critical for perennial crops such as cranberries, as they usually involve more resources, time, and funding compared with other crops. This study investigated the relative importance of cranberry producers’ preferences for breeding traits related to fruit quality, productivity, plant physiology, and resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. Industry responses revealed that fruit characteristics affecting fruit quality, including firmness, fruit size and anthocyanin content, and resistance to fruit rot, were the most desired traits in new cranberry cultivar release. These traits have the potential to increase the quality standards needed to process high-value sweetened dried cranberry products, positively affecting price premiums received by producers, which is critical for the economic viability of the cranberry industry. Our findings will be useful to breeders and allied scientists seeking to develop an advanced DNA-based selection strategy that would impact the global cranberry industry.
Radiation Intensity and Quality from Sole-source Light-emitting Diodes Affect Seedling Quality and Subsequent Flowering of Long-day Bedding Plant Species
Authors: Craver Joshua K. , Boldt Jennifer K. , Lopez Roberto G.
Published: October 2018

Previous research has shown high-quality annual bedding plant seedlings can be produced in controlled environments using light-emitting diode (LED) sole-source lighting (SSL). However, when only red and blue radiation are used, a delay in time to flower may be present when seedlings of some long-day species are subsequently finished in a greenhouse. Thus, our objective was to evaluate the effects of various radiation qualities and intensities under SSL on the morphology, nutrient uptake, and subsequent flowering of annual bedding plant seedlings with a long-day photoperiodic response. Coreopsis (Coreopsis grandiflora ‘Sunfire’), pansy (Viola ×wittrockiana ‘Matrix Yellow’), and petunia (Petunia ×hybrida ‘Purple Wave’) seedlings were grown at radiation intensities of 105, 210, or 315 µmol·m−2·s−1, achieved from LED arrays with radiation ratios (%) of red:blue 87:13 (R87:B13), red:far-red:blue 84:7:9 (R84:FR7:B9), or red:green:blue 74:18:8 (R74:G18:B8). Four-week-old seedlings were subsequently transplanted and grown in a common greenhouse environment. Stem caliper, root dry mass, and shoot dry mass of seedlings generally increased for all three species as the radiation intensity increased from 105 to 315 µmol·m−2·s−1, regardless of radiation quality. Similarly, stem length of all three species was generally shorter as the radiation intensity increased. Macro- and micronutrient concentrations were also generally lower as the radiation intensity increased for all three species. Pansy seedlings grown under R84:FR7:B9 flowered an average of 7 and 5 days earlier than those under R87:B13 and R74:G18:B8, respectively. These results provide information regarding the specific radiation parameters from commercially available LEDs necessary to produce high-quality seedlings under SSL, with radiation intensity appearing to be the dominant factor in determining seedling quality. Furthermore, the addition of far-red radiation can reduce time to flower after transplant and allow for a faster greenhouse turnover of some species with a long-day photoperiodic response.
The Role of Sequestrene 138 in Highbush Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) Micropropagation
Authors: Clapa Doina , Bunea Claudiu , Borsai Orsolya , Pintea Adela , Hârța Monica , Ştefan Răzvan , Fira Alexandru
Published: October 2018

The current research was carried out to investigate the effects of iron source in the culture media for Vaccinium corymbosum L. ʻBluerayʼ, ʻDukeʼ, and ʻPatriotʼ cultivars grown on five different types of medium (Woody Plant Medium supplemented with 1.0 mg·L−1 zeatin and 0, 25, 50, 75, and 100 mg·L−1 Sequestrene 138). After 10 weeks of culture, seven physiological parameters were measured, such as the number and length of axillary shoots, rooting and acclimatization percentage, as well as chlorophyll (a, b, a/b) and carotenoid content of the leaves. Adding Sequestrene 138 to the culture media led to a slight decrease of the proliferation rate but increased the length of the shoots. The chlorophyll and carotenoid content in all of the three cultivars was considerably increased as the iron concentration of the media increased. The shoots developed on the Sequestrene 138–free medium were chlorotic and short, whereas at different concentrations of iron in the culture medium the shoots were dark green and vigorous, providing a greater acclimatization success than those grown in iron-free medium.
The Effect of Irrigation Frequency, Phosphorus Fertigation, and Cultivar on Levels of Phenolic Compounds in Sweet Cherries
Authors: Ross Kelly , Neilsen Gerry , Neilsen Denise
Published: October 2018

This work examined the effect of irrigation frequency and phosphorus (P) fertigation on the levels of phenolic compounds present in two sweet cherry cultivars, ‘Skeena’ and ‘Cristalina’, over three growing seasons (2012–14). Two irrigation treatments were tested: a high irrigation frequency (I1) and a low irrigation frequency (I2). Both irrigation treatments applied the same quantities of water [100% evapotranspiration (ET)], but the high irrigation frequency applied water four times daily (0300, 0900, 1500, and 2100 hr) whereas the low irrigation frequency was applied at one time (0900 hr) every second day. Three soil management treatments were investigated, including 1) an unmulched control receiving no P, 2) a 10-cm waste wood mulch receiving no P, and 3) a treatment involving annual fertigation of 20 g P/tree at full bloom as ammonium polyphosphate. It was determined that cultivar was the most important factor affecting levels of phenolic compounds in sweet cherries, with generally greater levels associated with ‘Skeena’. The effect of different irrigation and fertilization strategies showed less promising results in terms of influencing levels of phenolic compounds. Both severe and mild water stress did not show an appreciable influence on increasing levels of phenolic compounds in cherries. Furthermore, severe water stress, which occurred during 2012, was associated with the lowest annual concentration of phenolic compounds and an economically unacceptable reduction in fruit size. Phosphorus fertigation influenced cherry phosphorus status positively by increasing leaf and fruit P concentrations consistently, yet these fruit exhibited lower levels of phenolic compounds.
Variation in ‘Bayou Belle’ and ‘Beauregard’ Sweetpotato Root Length in Response to Experimental Phosphorus Deficiency and Compacted Layer Treatments
Authors: Villordon Arthur , Gregorie Jeffrey Cole , LaBonte Don , Khan Awais , Selvaraj Michael
Published: October 2018

Phosphorus deprivation (−P) reduced sweetpotato storage root length (SRL) regardless of the presence or absence of a compacted layer (CL). The combination of −P and the presence of a simulated compacted layer (+CL) reduced SRL relative to the P-sufficient (+P) control plants grown without a compacted layer (−CL) by 44% and 40%, respectively, in ‘Bayou Belle’ and ‘Beauregard’ cultivars. In both cultivars, the combination of −P and −CL also reduced SRL by 36% (‘Bayou Belle’) and 28% (‘Beauregard’) relative to the control plants. There was a significant planting date × cultivar effect in the temporal −P studies, with a general trend for SRL reduction with −P at 10-day intervals over a 50-day growing period. −P treatment reduced ‘Bayou Belle’ SRL after 10 days but not after 20 days. In P source plant status studies, the −P/−P treatment (source plant P status/daughter plant P status) was associated with 50% and 48% reduction in SRL in ‘Bayou Belle’ and ‘Beauregard’ daughter plants, respectively, relative to the +P/+P control plants. Taken together, these findings corroborate previous experimental evidence on the role of P in determining root length in other plant species and experimental systems. These experimental findings have practical applications in the management of P in sweetpotato seed and production systems. The results of the current study can lead to follow-up work that validates cultivar-specific P requirements and how such information can be used to optimize P management as it relates to the production of storage roots of consistent length and shape. The methods and approaches used in the current study can be adopted and modified in follow-up investigations that seek to shed light on the precise mechanisms of SRL determination in sweetpotato.
Types of Shelter and Covering Materials Influencing Growth, Pigment, and Nutrient Concentrations of Baby Rubber Plants (Peperomia obtusifolia)
Authors: García-Caparrós Pedro , González-Salmerón Olga , Pérez-Saiz Mónica , Calatrava Raquel , Lao María Teresa , Chica Rosa María , De la Cruz Gumersindo
Published: October 2018

The cultivation of ornamental plants under different types of shelter and covering materials which reduce light intensity, resulting in morphological and physiological changes, needs to be evaluated before any large-scale use of such types of shelter covers. Baby rubber plants were grown in pots filled with peat under four different shelters and covering materials as follows: MG (multitunnel greenhouse with thermo-reflective aluminised screen), BG (buried solar greenhouse with thermo-reflective aluminised screen), NH (net house covered only with antipest mesh) and NH-AS (net house with antipest mesh and thermo-reflective aluminised screen). At the end of the experiment, the growth parameters and color of leaves, as well as photosynthetic and nutritional parameters, were assessed for each treatment. Baby rubber plants grown under NH-AS showed the highest values for growth parameters. The absence of shading in a net house may result in photoinhibition, reducing the growth and increasing the values of red (R) and blue (B) in leaves, which may be related to the increase of anthocyanin synthesis. The low level of radiation intercepted in the multitunnel and the buried greenhouse increased chlorophyll, N and P leaf concentration, while for K concentration, there was no clear trend and Na and Cl leaf concentration were similar under the different types of shelter. We concluded that the production of baby rubber plants under net house with antipest mesh and thermo-reflective aluminised screen is the best option to maximise the market value of baby rubber plants.
Yield and Fruit Quality of Sixteen Fragaria vesca Accessions Grown in Southern Florida
Authors: Chambers Alan , Moon Pamela , Fu Yuqing , Choiseul Juliette , Bai Jinhe , Plotto Anne , Baldwin Elizabeth
Published: October 2018

Fragaria vesca is a diploid strawberry species that produces gourmet, aromatic fruits with only limited commercial production because of its relative obscurity. Most F. vesca research focuses on genetics and fruit aroma, but yield and fruit quality data across diploid accessions are lacking. Sixteen F. vesca accessions were grown in replicated field plots in southern Florida to measure field performance and fruit quality over multiple harvests during a single growing season. Accessions ‘Reine des Vallees’, ‘Baron Solemacher’, ‘Fragolina di Bosco’, and ‘Reugen’ all had significantly higher yield (115–140 g/plot/week) and fruit number (117–139 fruit/plot/week) compared with ‘Bowlenzauber’, ‘Attila’, ‘Ali Baba’, and ‘Pineapple Crush’ (31–57 g/plot/week and 32–60 fruit/plot/week) during peak production. Total average yield ranged from 240 g (‘Pineapple Crush’) to 1194 g (‘Baron Solemacher’) per plot of 10 plants. Fruit number and fruit yield were highly correlated (R2 = 0.96) for all accessions, and there was no significant difference in fruit weight among accessions through the entire season. Total soluble solids ranged from 10.9 to 13.5 °Brix, and fructose, glucose, sucrose, and total sugars ranged from 15.3 to 22.1, 13.5 to 20.0, 0.1 to 2.7, and 29.7 to 42.5 mg/g, respectively, fresh weight. Acidity ranged from 1.00% to 1.18% citric acid and was not consistently significantly different among accessions over multiple harvests. Forty-two aroma compounds were putatively identified over three harvests for each accession and included mostly esters and ketones with a few alcohols, terpenes, and aldehydes. The majority of these compounds were similarly abundant over harvests and among accessions with a few exceptions, including methyl anthranilate. These results are the first in-depth study of yield and fruit quality for a large number of F. vesca accessions that could lead to increased cultivation of this species for local markets.
Prestorage Temperature and Ultra-low Oxygen Treatments Affect Incidence of Physiological Disorders in Organic ‘Granny Smith’ Apples
Authors: Zoffoli Juan Pablo , Sanguedolce Valentina , Naranjo Paulina , Contreras Carolina
Published: October 2018

The physiological disorders superficial scald, bitter pit, and lenticel blotch pit severely compromise the commercial value of ‘Granny Smith’ apples. A number of chemical treatments are available to alleviate these disorders but they are unacceptable in the expanding organic market. The objective of this research was to study the effectiveness of prestorage treatments—delayed cooling and elevated temperature under ultra-low oxygen (ULO) atmospheres—as organic-friendly strategies to control these disorders. ‘Granny Smith’ apples were exposed to four different treatments: 1) conditioning temperature treatments (CTemp): 10 days at 3 °C or 30 days at 3 °C or 10 days at 20 °C, in air; 2) the same conditioning temperature treatments combined with an ultra-low oxygen (ULO) conditioning treatment of 0.2–0.5 kPa O2 and <0.5 kPa CO2; 3) 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) treatment as a commercial control; and 4) untreated control fruit. After the prestorage treatment, fruit were stored for 90 or 150 days at 0 °C, and then held poststorage for 8 days at 20 °C before quality analysis. A combination treatment of temperature conditioning and ULO for 30 days at 3 °C achieved the best control of superficial scald, bitter pit, and lenticel blotch pit. The use of ULO with CTemp for 10 days at 20 °C offered the same control but induced high concentrations of ethanol and acetaldehyde that affected the organoleptic acceptability of the fruit and reduced its commercial value. The use of 1-MCP offered 100% control of superficial scald but bitter pit and lenticel blotch pit disorder incidences were similar or higher than in the control fruit. All ULO conditioning treatments resulted in high ethanol and acetaldehyde concentrations during the first 90 days of storage, but fruit exposed to ULO conditioning treatment for 30 days at 3 °C showed similar organoleptic acceptability to control fruit after 150 days. Therefore, ULO conditioning is a potentially useful treatment for the organic apple industry.
Effect of pH and Silicon in the Fertigation Solution on Vegetative Growth of Blueberry Plants in Organic Agriculture
Authors: Gallegos-Cedillo Victor M. , Álvaro Juan E. , Capatos Th. , Hachmann T. Luan , Carrasco Gilda , Urrestarazu Miguel
Published: October 2018

The effect of pH and silicon (Si) in the nutrient solution on the vegetative development of 2-year-old blueberry plants (Vaccinium corymbosum L. cv. Ventura) was studied. Two independent experiments were performed on coir fiber (CF) and sand as substrates. In experiment 1, Si was applied in the nutrient solution at a dose of 0.0, 0.3, 0.6, and 1.2 mm. In experiment 2, plants were treated with nutrient solution at pH 4.00, 4.75, 5.50, and 6.25, using two sources of acidification: nitric acid and citric acid. The parameters of plant growth, foliar surface, and stem biomass were measured. With the application of 1.2 mm Si to CF, plant height registered a significant increase of 8%, and shoot dry and fresh biomass increased by 21% and 25%, respectively. The results of experiment 1 indicated that the application of Si benefits the vegetative growth of blueberry plants in CF, but no effect was observed in the sand substrate. In the results of experiment 2, the pH level of 6.25 in CF decreased the dry weight of stems and leaves by 21% and 18%, respectively. A significant increase in the pH range of 4.00 to 5.50 was recorded in both the citric acid and nitric acid treatments, but these significant effects were not found in sand. Citric acid presented a similar behavior to nitric acid, which indicates that it can be a good source of acidification in organic and ecologically friendly crops.