bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Use of Vagina–Cervix Length Measurement in Evaluation of Future Reproductive Performance of Sows: A Preliminary Study under Commercial Conditions
Authors: Tuz Ryszard , Schwarz Tomasz , Małopolska Martyna , Nowicki Jacek
Published: April 2019

The length of the distal part of the internal reproductive tract seems to be related to the length and capacity of uterine horns, which is the most important anatomical property influencing litter size in sows. The aim of this study was to evaluate variation in vagina–cervix length (VCL) in gilts and differences in reproductive performance of sows according to VCL. The study was performed in a commercial farm using 221 gilts introduced into the breeding herd. Females were divided into three groups: (S) short (26.0 ± 2.0 cm, n = 36), (M) medium (31.3 ± 1.46 cm; n = 121), and (L) long VCL (36.0 ± 1.4 cm; n = 42) (p < 0.01). Mean live weight of gilts did not differ significantly among groups. Mean first litter size significantly varied between groups S (10.47 ± 3.01) and L (11.98 ± 2.32) (p = 0.0075) and M (10.67 ± 2.98) and L (p = 0.0054), while there was no significant difference between group S and M. Significant advantage (p = 0.023) was noted in the number of litters obtained from sows in groups L (4.69 ± 3.14), M (3.67 ± 2.71), and S (3.36 ± 2.40), and thus in total life production of sows (p = 0.0054), i.e., the number of piglets born alive. To conclude, the differences in vagina–cervix length in gilts during the first service was associated with significant variability in litter size during the first reproductive cycle, giving an advantage to females with longer VCL. Gilts with longer VCL were culled later and gave significantly more litters. Consequently, their lifetime piglet production was greater than gilts with shorter VCL.
Shifting Gears: The Future of Polymyxin Antibiotics
Authors: Lenhard Justin R. , Bulman Zackery P. , Tsuji Brian T. , Kaye Keith S.
Published: April 2019

The manuscripts contained in this special edition of Antibiotics represent a current review of the polymyxins as well as highlights from the 3rd International Polymyxin Conference, which was held in Madrid, Spain, 25 to 26 April 2018. The role of the polymyxin antibiotics has evolved over time based on the availability of alternative agents. After high rates of nephrotoxicity caused the drug class to fall out of favor, polymyxins were once against utilized in the 21st century to combat drug-resistant pathogens. However, the introduction of safer agents with activity against drug-resistant organisms has brought the future utility of polymyxins into question. The present review investigates the future niche of polymyxins by evaluating currently available and future treatment options for difficult-to-treat pathogens. The introduction of ceftazidime-avibactam, meropenem-vaborbactam and plazomicin are likely to decrease polymyxin utilization for infections caused by Enterobacteriaceae. Similarly, the availability of ceftolozane-tazobactam will reduce the use of polymyxins to counter multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa. In contrast, polymyxins will likely continue be an important option for combatting carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii until better options become commercially available. Measuring polymyxin concentrations in patients and individualizing therapy may be a future strategy to optimize clinical outcomes while minimizing nephrotoxicity. Inhaled polymyxins will continue to be an adjunctive option for pulmonary infections but further clinical trials are needed to clarify the efficacy of inhaled polymyxins. Lastly, safer polymyxin analogs will potentially be an important addition to the antimicrobial armamentarium.
Packet Switching Strategy and Node Architecture of Extended Spectral-Amplitude-Coding Labels in GMPLS Networks
Authors: Chen Kai-Sheng
Published: April 2019

We present packet switching applications based on extended spectral-amplitude-coding (SAC) labels in generalized multi-protocol label switching (GMPLS) networks. The proposed approach combines the advantages of wavelength-division multiplexing (WDM) and optical code-division multiple access (OCDMA). The extended SAC labels preserve the orthogonal property to avoid the effect of multiple access interference (MAI) shown at the decoder. We investigate the node architecture of label generation/recognition based on arrayed waveguide grating (AWG). Combining cyclic-shifted maximal length sequence (MLS) codes with the wavelength routed property of AWG simplifies the node structure. The simulation results show that the proposed labels achieve good performances against receiver noise due to the low average cross-correlation values. Under a given bit-error-rate (BER), the switching efficiency of the extended SAC labels outperforms the previous OCDMA schemes, as the network nodes are capable of processing a large number of labels simultaneously.
Hydrothermal Conversion of Red Mud into Magnetic Adsorbent for Effective Adsorption of Zn(II) in Water
Authors: Dong Wenqing , Liang Kun , Qin Yanyi , Ma Huijia , Zhao Xuan , Zhang Leilei , Zhu Suiyi , Yu Yang , Bian Dejun , Yang Jiakuan
Published: April 2019

Red mud, a Fe-rich waste generated from the aluminum industry, was recovered as an adsorbent for wastewater treatment. The separation process of red mud from water after adsorption, including centrifugation and filtration, was complicated. This study demonstrated an alternative option to recycle red mud for preparing magnetic adsorbent via a facile hydrothermal route using ascorbic acid as reductant. Red mud is weakly magnetized and consists of andradite, muscovite, hematite, and cancrinite. After hydrothermal treatment, andradite in red mud was reductively dissolved by ascorbic acid, and transformed into magnetite and morimotoite. With increasing hydrothermal temperature, the dissolution of andradite accelerated, and the crystallite size of magnetite increased. When the hydrothermal temperature reached 200 °C, the prepared adsorbent P-200 showed a desirable saturation magnetization of 4.1 Am2/kg, and could be easily magnetically separated from water after adsorption. The maximum adsorption capacity of P-200 for Zn2+ was 89.6 mg/g, which is eight-fold higher than that of the raw red mud. The adsorption of Zn2+ by P-200 fitted the Langmuir model, where cation exchange was the main adsorption mechanism. The average distribution coefficient of Zn2+ at low ppm level was 16.81 L/g for P-200, higher than those of the red mud (0.3 L/g) and the prepared P-120 (1.48 L/g) and P-270 (5.48 L/g), demonstrating that P-200 had the best adsorption capacity for Zn2+ and can be served as a practical adsorbent for real-world applications. To our knowledge, this is the first study to report the conversion of red mud into a magnetic adsorbent under mild conditions.
Simulation of Achievable Data Rates of Broadband Power Line Communication for Smart Metering
Authors: Mlynek Petr , Misurec Jiri , Silhavy Pavel , Fujdiak Radek , Slacik Jan , Hasirci Zeynep
Published: April 2019

Building real Smart Metering and Smart Grid networks is very expensive and time-consuming and also it is impossible to install different technologies in the same environment only for comparison. Therefore, simulation and experimental pilot measurements are an easy, economical, and time-affordable solution for a first comparison and evaluation of different technologies and solutions. The local area networks (LAN) are the core of Smart Metering and Smart Grid networks. The two predominant technologies are mostly sufficient for LAN networks, Power Line Communication (PLC), and radio frequency (RF) solutions. For PLC it is hard to allow prediction of the behaviour. Performance assessment for point-to-point connection is easy, but for complex PLC networks with repeaters it is quite expensive. Therefore, a simulation is an easy, fast, and cheap solution for understanding the grid configuration, influence of particular topological components, and performance possibilities. Simulation results can, thus, provide material for the design of a telecommunication infrastructure for Smart Metering. This paper presents results of such a simulation study. It is based on realistic PLC channel model implementation in Network Simulator 3, our modification and extension of this implementation for our use case scenario. It uses Shannon’s formula to calculate theoretical maximum channel capacity. In particular, it provides channel capacity and achievable distances of broadband PLC (BB-PLC). In this article we also exploit our novel idea of simple performance assessment of broadband PLC communication via simulation. It is supposed to be used to understand, evaluate, and test the grid configuration before deployment.
Cultivar Classification of Single Sweet Corn Seed Using Fourier Transform Near-Infrared Spectroscopy Combined with Discriminant Analysis
Authors: Qiu Guangjun , Lü Enli , Wang Ning , Lu Huazhong , Wang Feiren , Zeng Fanguo
Published: April 2019

Seed purity is a key indicator of crop seed quality. The conventional methods for cultivar identification are time-consuming, expensive, and destructive. Fourier transform near-infrared (FT-NIR) spectroscopy combined with discriminant analyses, was studied as a rapid and nondestructive technique to classify the cultivars of sweet corn seeds. Spectra with a range of 1000–2500 nm collected from 760 seeds of two cultivars were used for the discriminant analyses. Thereafter, 126 feature wavelengths were identified from 1557 wavelengths using a genetic algorithm (GA) to build simplified classification models. Four classification algorithms, namely K-nearest neighbor (KNN), soft independent method of class analogy (SIMCA), partial least-squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA), and support vector machine discriminant analysis (SVM-DA) were tested on full-range wavelengths and feature wavelengths, respectively. With the full-range wavelengths, all four algorithms achieved a high classification accuracy range from 97.56% to 99.59%, and the SVM-DA worked better than other models. From the feature wavelengths, no significant decline in accuracies was observed in most of the models and a high accuracy of 99.19% was still obtained by the PLS-DA model. This study demonstrated that using the FT-NIR technique with discriminant analyses could be a feasible way to classify sweet corn seed cultivars and the proper classification model could be embedded in seed sorting machinery to select high-purity seeds.
Loss to Aviation Economy Due to Winter Fog in New Delhi during the Winter of 2011–2016
Authors: Kulkarni Rachana , Jenamani Rajendra K. , Pithani Prakash , Konwar Mahen , Nigam Narendra , Ghude Sachin D.
Published: April 2019

Stable and clear atmospheric conditions, lower surface temperatures, an ample moisture supply, and a strong low-level inversion persisting for most of the night usually facilitates the formation of dense fog during winter in Delhi. This severely hinders the flight operations at India’s busiest airport, the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, where more than 900 flight operations occur per day and an interruption can cause significant financial losses to the aviation industry. It is important to undertake a quantitative study of the estimated losses. This study, undertaken for the first time in India, aimed to evaluate the impact of dense fog at IGI Airport on economic losses which occurred during the winter season between 2011 and 2016. The breakdown of charges for different segments of flight operations for the domestic and international sectors was obtained from India’s Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Center for Asia Pacific Aviation (CAPA) India. A total of 653 h of dense fog between 2011 and 2016 at IGI Airport caused economic losses of approximately 3.9 million USD (248 million Indian rupees) to the airlines. The analysis further found that from 2014–2015 onwards, there has been a reduction in the number of flight delays, diversions, and cancellations by approximately 88%, 55%, and 36%, respectively, due to the strict implementation of guidelines to facilitate the Category (CAT)-III landing for aircraft during dense fog.
Applications of Square Roots of Diffeomorphisms
Authors: Sugimoto Yoshihiro
Published: April 2019

In this paper, we prove that on any contact manifold ( M , ξ ) there exists an arbitrary C ∞ -small contactomorphism which does not admit a square root. In particular, there exists an arbitrary C ∞ -small contactomorphism which is not “autonomous”. This paper is the first step to study the topology of C o n t 0 ( M , ξ ) ∖ Aut ( M , ξ ) . As an application, we also prove a similar result for the diffeomorphism group Diff ( M ) for any smooth manifold M.
Bäcklund Transformations for Nonlinear Differential Equations and Systems
Authors: Redkina Tatyana V. , Zakinyan Robert G. , Zakinyan Arthur R. , Surneva Olesya B. , Yanovskaya Olga S.
Published: April 2019

In this work, new Bäcklund transformations (BTs) for generalized Liouville equations were obtained. Special cases of Liouville equations with exponential nonlinearity that have a multiplier that depends on the independent variables and first-order derivatives from the function were considered. Two- and three-dimensional cases were considered. The BTs construction is based on the method proposed by Clairin. The solutions of the considered equations have been found using the BTs, with a unified algorithm. In addition, the work develops the Clairin’s method for the system of two third-order equations related to the integrable perturbation and complexification of the Korteweg-de Vries (KdV) equation. Among the constructed BTs an analog of the Miura transformations was found. The Miura transformations transfer the initial system to that of perturbed modified KdV (mKdV) equations. It could be shown on this way that, considering the system as a link between the real and imaginary parts of a complex function, it is possible to go to the complexified KdV (cKdV) and here the analog of the Miura transformations transforms it into the complexification of the mKdV.
Recent Advances in Computational Protocols Addressing Intrinsically Disordered Proteins
Authors: Bhattacharya Supriyo , Lin Xingcheng
Published: April 2019

Intrinsically disordered proteins (IDP) are abundant in the human genome and have recently emerged as major therapeutic targets for various diseases. Unlike traditional proteins that adopt a definitive structure, IDPs in free solution are disordered and exist as an ensemble of conformations. This enables the IDPs to signal through multiple signaling pathways and serve as scaffolds for multi-protein complexes. The challenge in studying IDPs experimentally stems from their disordered nature. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), circular dichroism, small angle X-ray scattering, and single molecule Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) can give the local structural information and overall dimension of IDPs, but seldom provide a unified picture of the whole protein. To understand the conformational dynamics of IDPs and how their structural ensembles recognize multiple binding partners and small molecule inhibitors, knowledge-based and physics-based sampling techniques are utilized in-silico, guided by experimental structural data. However, efficient sampling of the IDP conformational ensemble requires traversing the numerous degrees of freedom in the IDP energy landscape, as well as force-fields that accurately model the protein and solvent interactions. In this review, we have provided an overview of the current state of computational methods for studying IDP structure and dynamics and discussed the major challenges faced in this field.
Promoter Hypermethylation of Tumor-Suppressor Genes p16INK4a, RASSF1A, TIMP3, and PCQAP/MED15 in Salivary DNA as a Quadruple Biomarker Panel for Early Detection of Oral and Oropharyngeal Cancers
Authors: Liyanage Chamikara , Wathupola Asanga , Muraleetharan Sanjayan , Perera Kanthi , Punyadeera Chamindie , Udagama Preethi
Published: April 2019

Silencing of tumor-suppressor genes (TSGs) by DNA promoter hypermethylation is an early event in carcinogenesis; hence, TSGs may serve as early tumor biomarkers. We determined the promoter methylation levels of p16INK4a, RASSF1A, TIMP3, and PCQAP/MED15 TSGs in salivary DNA from oral cancer (OC) and oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) patients, using methylation-specific PCR coupled with densitometry analysis. We assessed the association between DNA methylation of individual TSGs with OC and OPC risk factors. The performance and the clinical validity of this quadruple-methylation marker panel were evaluated in discriminating OC and OPC patients from healthy controls using the CombiROC web tool. Our study reports that RASSF1A, TIMP3, and PCQAP/MED15 TSGs were significantly hypermethylated in OC and OPC cases compared to healthy controls. DNA methylation levels of TSGs were significantly augmented by smoking, alcohol use, and betel quid chewing, indicating the fact that frequent exposure to risk factors may drive oral and oropharyngeal carcinogenesis through TSG promoter hypermethylation. Also, this quadruple-methylation marker panel of p16INK4a, RASSF1A, TIMP3, and PCQAP/MED15 TSGs demonstrated excellent diagnostic accuracy in the early detection of OC at 91.7% sensitivity and 92.3% specificity and of OPC at 99.8% sensitivity and 92.1% specificity from healthy controls.
A High-Throughput Assay for Congenital and Age-Related Eye Diseases in Zebrafish
Authors: Brastrom Lindy K. , Scott C. Anthony , Dawson Deborah V. , Slusarski Diane C.
Published: April 2019

Debilitating visual impairment caused by cataracts or microphthalmia is estimated to affect roughly 20 million people in the United States alone. According to the National Eye Institute, by 2050 that number is expected to more than double to roughly 50 million. The identification of candidate disease-causing alleles for cataracts and microphthalmia has been accelerated with advanced sequencing technologies creating a need for verification of the pathophysiology of these genes. Zebrafish pose many advantages as a high-throughput model for human eye disease. By 5 days post-fertilization, zebrafish have quantifiable behavioral responses to visual stimuli. Their small size, many progeny, and external fertilization allows for rapid screening for vision defects. We have adapted the OptoMotor Response to assay visual impairment in zebrafish models of cataracts and microphthalmia. This research demonstrates an inexpensive, high-throughput method for analyzing candidate genes involved in visual impairment.
Extracellular S100β Disrupts Bergman Glia Morphology and Synaptic Transmission in Cerebellar Purkinje Cells
Authors: Belozor Olga S. , Yakovleva Dariya A. , Potapenko Ilya V. , Shuvaev Andrey N. , Smolnikova Marina V. , Vasilev Alex , Pozhilenkova Elena A. , Shuvaev Anton N.
Published: April 2019

Astrogliosis is a pathological process that affects the density, morphology, and function of astrocytes. It is a common feature of brain trauma, autoimmune diseases, and neurodegeneration including spinocerebellar ataxia type 1 (SCA1), a poorly understood neurodegenerative disease. S100β is a Ca2+ binding protein. In SCA1, excessive excretion of S100β by reactive astrocytes and its uptake by Purkinje cells has been demonstrated previously. Under pathological conditions, excessive extracellular concentration of S100β stimulates the production of proinflammatory cytokines and induces apoptosis. We modeled astrogliosis by S100β injections into cerebellar cortex in mice. Injections of S100β led to significant changes in Bergmann glia (BG) cortical organization and affected their processes. S100β also changed morphology of the Purkinje cells (PCs), causing a significant reduction in the dendritic length. Moreover, the short-term synaptic plasticity and depolarization-induced suppression of synaptic transmission were disrupted after S100β injections. We speculate that these effects are the result of Ca2+-chelating properties of S100β protein. In summary, exogenous S100β induced astrogliosis in cerebellum could lead to neuronal dysfunction, which resembles a natural neurodegenerative process. We suggest that astrocytes play an essential role in SCA1 pathology, and that astrocytic S100β is an important contributor to this process.
Home-Based Interventions to Treat and Prevent Childhood Obesity: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Pamungkas Rian Adi , Chamroonsawasdi Kanittha
Published: April 2019

Childhood obesity has adverse impacts on premature mortality and morbidity. Managing obesity could prevent premature mortality and several types of complications among high-risk groups. This study aimed to review and examine the effects of home-based interventions to treat and prevent childhood obesity. Three databases, i.e., PubMed, Scopus, and Science Direct, were included to extract articles related to the topic. The terms “childhood obesity”, “home-based intervention”, “parental program”, and “parental involvement” were used as the primary keywords. Appraisal of the systematic review was based on PRISMA formats. Of 1556 publications identified, 22 studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were appropriate to conduct a meta-analysis. Overall, the home-based interventions reduced the body mass index (BMI) z-score by 36.99% (z = 36.99, p = 0.00). The data analysis indicated considerable heterogeneity among all interventions (Chi-square = 926.41, df = 22 (p < 0.000001), I2 = 98%). The home-based intervention positively reduced BMI. Our findings could guide future meaningful home-based interventions to treat and prevent childhood obesity.
Electrochemical Properties of Graphene Oxide Nanoribbons/Polypyrrole Nanocomposites
Authors: Al Dream Johara , Zequine Camila , Siam K. , Kahol Pawan K. , Mishra S. R. , Gupta Ram K.
Published: April 2019

Graphene is a highly studied material due to its unique electrical, optical, and mechanical properties. Graphene is widely applied in the field of energy such as in batteries, supercapacitors, and solar cells. The properties of graphene can be further improved by making nanocomposites with conducting polymers. In this work, graphene oxide nanoribbons (GONRs) were synthesized by unzipping multiwall carbon nanotubes. Graphene nanoribbons were used to make nanocomposites with polypyrrole for energy storage applications. The synthesized nanocomposites were structurally and electrochemically characterized to understand their structure and electrochemical properties. The electrochemical characterizations of these nanocomposites were carried out using cyclic voltammetry. The specific capacitance of the nanocomposites was observed to decrease with increasing scan rates. The highest specific capacitance of 2066 F/g was observed using cyclic voltammetry for the optimized nanocomposite of GONR and polypyrrole. Our study suggests that the electrochemical properties of graphene or polypyrrole can be improved by making their composites and that they could be successfully used as electrode materials for energy storage applications. This study can also be extended to the self-assembly of other conducting polymers and graphene nanoribbons through a simple route for various other applications.
The Resolution of Intestinal Inflammation: The Peace-Keeper’s Perspective
Authors: Onali Sara , Favale Agnese , Fantini Massimo C
Published: April 2019

The uncontrolled activation of the immune system toward antigens contained in the gut lumen in genetically predisposed subjects is believed to be the leading cause of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Two not mutually exclusive hypotheses can explain the pathogenic process leading to IBD. The first and mostly explored hypothesis states that the loss of tolerance toward gut microbiota antigens generates an aberrant inflammatory response that is perpetuated by continuous and unavoidable exposure to the triggering antigens. However, the discovery that the resolution of inflammation is not the mere consequence of clearing inflammatory triggers and diluting pro-inflammatory factors, but rather an active process in which molecular and cellular elements are involved, implies that a defect in the pro-resolving mechanisms might cause chronic inflammation in different immune-mediated diseases, including IBD. Here we review data on pro-resolving and counter-regulatory mechanisms involved in the resolution of inflammation, aiming to identify their possible involvement in the pathogenesis of IBD.
Mast Cell Protease 7 Promotes Angiogenesis by Degradation of Integrin Subunits
Authors: de Souza Junior Devandir A. , Santana Carolina , Vieira Gabriel V. , Oliver Constance , Jamur Maria Celia
Published: April 2019

Previous studies from our laboratory have shown that during angiogenesis in vitro, rmMCP-7 (recombinant mouse mast cell protease-7) stimulates endothelial cell spreading and induces their penetration into the matrix. The ability of rmMCP-7 to induce angiogenesis in vivo was assessed in the present study using a directed in vivo angiogenesis assay (DIVAA™). Vessel invasion of the angioreactor was observed in the presence of rmMCP-7 but was not seen in the control. Since integrins are involved in endothelial cell migration, the relationship between rmMCP-7 and integrins during angiogenesis was investigated. Incubation with rmMCP-7 resulted in a reduction in the levels of integrin subunits αv and β1 on SVEC4-10 endothelial cells during angiogenesis in vitro. Furthermore, the degradation of integrin subunits occurs both through the direct action of rmMCP-7 and indirectly via the ubiquitin/proteasome system. Even in the presence of a proteasome inhibitor, incubation of endothelial cells with rmMCP-7 induced cell migration and tube formation as well as the beginning of loop formation. These data indicate that the direct degradation of the integrin subunits by rmMCP-7 is sufficient to initiate angiogenesis. The results demonstrate, for the first time, that mMCP-7 acts in angiogenesis through integrin degradation.
Preparation of Fly Ash-Based Porous Ceramic with Alumina as the Pore-Forming Agent
Authors: Yang Yulong , Liu Fengli , Chang Qibing , Hu Zhiwen , Wang Qikun , Wang Yongqing
Published: April 2019

Low-cost porous ceramic from fly ash with alumina as the pore-forming agent was produced. The effect of the alumina content on line shrink, bulk density, mechanical strength, porosity, and phase composition of porous ceramic were investigated in detail. The results showed that the addition of alumina can help to improve the porosity and then it can change the pore structure of porous ceramic. Meanwhile, the addition of alumina can react with SiO2 in fly ash which can form the mullite. With the increase of alumina content, the content of quartz decreased gradually, while the alumina and mullite increased. Furthermore, the pore size becomes uniform and the permeability increased gradually. After sintering at 1250 °C for 0.5 h, the porous ceramic has been obtained the bending strength of ≥ 35MPa and the porosity of ≥ 28% with the addition content of alumina (25 wt%).
Predictors of Excessive Daytime Sleepiness in Medical Students: A Meta-Regression
Authors: Jahrami Haitham , Alshomili Hajar , Almannai Noora , Althani Noora , Aloffi Adel , Algahtani Haifa , Brown Cary
Published: April 2019

Excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) is highly prevalent among medical students and can have serious negative outcomes for both students and their patients. Little is known about the magnitude and predictors of EDS among medical college students. A meta-regression analysis was conducted to achieve these two targets. A systematic search was performed for English-language studies that reported the prevalence of EDS among medical students using the Epworth sleepiness scale (ESS), age, sex, sleep duration and sleep quality as predictive variables. A total of nine observational studies (K = 9, N = 2587) were included in the analyses. Meta-regression analyses were performed using mean age (years), sex (proportion of male subjects), sleep duration (hours/night) and sleep quality index score (continuous scale) as moderators for EDS—with the prevalence of EDS as an outcome variable. An interaction term of sleep duration X sleep quality was created to assess if these two variables simultaneously influenced the outcome variable. Utilizing the ESS, the pooled prevalence of EDS among medical students was 34.6% (95% Confidence Interval (CI) 18.3–50.9%). Meta-regression models of age, sex, sleep duration and sleep quality alone revealed poor predictive capabilities. Meta-regression models of sleep duration–sleep quality interaction revealed results with high statistical significance. The findings from this review contribute supporting evidence for the relationship between sleep duration and sleep quality scores (i.e., sleep duration X sleep quality score) in predicting EDS in medical students.
Complete and Durable Response to Combined Chemo/Radiation Therapy in EGFR Wild-Type Lung Adenocarcinoma with Diffuse Brain Metastases
Authors: Santeufemia Davide Adriano , Palmieri Giuseppe , Cossu Antonio , De Re Valli , Caggiari Laura , De Zorzi Mariangela , Casula Milena , Sini Maria Cristina , Baldino Giovanni , Dedola Maria Filomena , Corona Giuseppe , Miolo Gianmaria
Published: April 2019

Most non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients are likely to develop brain metastases during the course of their illness. Currently, no consensus on NSCLC patients’ treatment with brain metastasis has been established. Although whole brain radiotherapy prolongs the median survival time of approximately 4 months, a cisplatin-pemetrexed combination may also represent a potential option in the treatment of asymptomatic NSCLC patients with brain metastases. Herein, we report the case of a non-smoker male patient with multiple, large and diffuse brain metastases from an “epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) wild-type” lung adenocarcinoma who underwent an overly aggressive chemo/radiation therapy. This approach led to a complete and durable remission of the disease and to a long survival of up to 58 months from diagnosis of primary tumor. The uncommon course of this metastatic disease induced us to describe its oncological management and to investigate the molecular features of the tumor.
Thermal Infrared Imaging from Drones Offers a Major Advance for Spider Monkey Surveys
Authors: Spaan Denise , Burke Claire , McAree Owen , Aureli Filippo , Rangel-Rivera Coral E. , Hutschenreiter Anja , Longmore Steve N. , McWhirter Paul R. , Wich Serge A.
Published: April 2019

Accurate and precise population estimates form the basis of conservation action but are lacking for many arboreal species due to the high costs and difficulty in surveying these species. Recently, researchers have started to use drones to obtain data on animal distribution and density. In this study, we compared ground and drone counts for spider monkeys (Ateles geoffroyi) at their sleeping sites using a custom-built drone fitted with a thermal infrared (TIR) camera. We demonstrated that a drone with a TIR camera can be successfully employed to determine the presence and count the number of spider monkeys in a forested area. Using a concordance analysis, we found high agreement between ground and drone counts for small monkey subgroups (<10 individuals), indicating that the methods do not differ when surveying small subgroups. However, we found low agreement between methods for larger subgroups (>10 individuals), with drone counts being higher than the corresponding ground counts in 83% of surveys. We could identify additional individuals from TIR drone footage due to a greater area covered compared to ground surveys. We recommend using TIR drones for surveys of spider monkey sleeping sites and discuss current challenges to implementation.
Digital Story Map Learning for STEM Disciplines
Authors: Groshans Garth , Mikhailova Elena , Post Christopher , Schlautman Mark , Carbajales-Dale Patricia , Payne Kayla
Published: April 2019

Modern technological advances and trends require new pedagogy and delivery of mapping materials to prepare the future workforce in the disciplines of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) for an increasingly technology-dominated society. The purpose of this study was to develop an Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI) Story Map “Soil Forming Factors: Climate” for multiple STEM disciplines based on the design guidelines from the Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning (CTML). The study incorporated a two-group post-test only design that utilized multiple methods of analysis, including a quality assessment of the ESRI Story Map using the five principles of effective storytelling, direct quantitative measures of learning (quiz), and surveys of participants’ perceptions (PowerPoint presentation versus ESRI Story Map) using QualtricsTM. Survey results were summarized by gender, academic classification (year), and academic major program. The newly developed ESRI Story Map was an effective teaching tool as demonstrated by quiz scores and students’ positive responses. Post-testing scores indicated that ESRI Story Maps were an effective way to learn and were viewed as effective as traditional teaching methods (e.g., PowerPoint). Additionally, students reported feeling comfortable using ESRI Story Maps. These positive responses were consistent by gender, major, and academic classification (year). This research indicates that adding audio may improve the use of this ESRI Story Map for educational concept delivery. Empirical studies such as this that include multifaceted quantitative and qualitative assessments are critical to understanding the benefits of new types of multimedia learning in an educational setting.
The Influence of Teachers’ Professional Development Activities on the Factors Promoting ICT Integration in Primary Schools in Mongolia
Authors: Li Shengru , Yamaguchi Shinobu , Sukhbaatar Javzan , Takada Jun-ichi
Published: April 2019

This paper examines the influences of professional development activities on important teacher-level factors that are important for the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in education for primary school teachers in Mongolia. The study utilizes the survey data collected in 2012 (n = 826) and 2016 (n = 1161) to identify the changes in factors that are important to the use of ICT in education. The study result shows that six teacher level factors that are important for the ICT integration have been improved over time through professional development activities. These are professional competency in educational use of ICT, collaboration for ICT integration, benefits on use of ICT, autonomy to innovate, recognition as a professional, and skills and practices in educational use of ICT. This provides supporting evidence to educational practitioners for the implementation of effective professional development programs to promote ICT integration in education, especially in the developing country’s context.
Switching Power Suppliers Noise Reduction in Ultrasound Doppler Fluid Measurements
Authors: Ricci Stefano
Published: April 2019

Ultrasound Doppler techniques are widely employed in detecting the velocity of moving fluids both in medical and industrial applications. Echo Doppler electronics systems include a highly sensitive front-end suitable to processing the very low power ultrasound echoes received by the transducer. Moreover, the front-end input bandwidth typically ranges between 100 kHz and 10 MHz, which is the same frequency range where modern switching regulators work. Thus, the front-end is particularly prone to the noise produced by the suppliers that power the board itself. Electromagnetic interference (EMI) filters and spread-spectrum modulation of the switching regulator frequency help, but the results are often not optimal, and unacceptable artifacts are visible in the Doppler spectrum. In this paper a spread-spectrum modulation is proposed that concentrates the switching noise in the low-frequency range of the Doppler spectrum (e.g., 0–100 Hz). This range is removed by the high-pass clutter filter normally used in velocity Doppler investigations, thus switching noise and artifacts are eliminated. The method is verified through mathematical simulations and tested in measurements carried out with a research Doppler system. An example is presented in which the artifacts present during the investigation of a 0.4-m/s flow in a 25.4-mm diameter pipe are effectively removed by the proposed method.
Distributed E-Voting and E-Bidding Systems Based on Smart Contract
Authors: Tso Raylin , Liu Zi-Yuan , Hsiao Jen-Ho
Published: April 2019

Traditional voting and bidding systems largely rely on paperwork and human resources throughout the voting process, which can incur high costs in terms of both time and money. Electronic voting and electronic bidding systems can be used to reduce costs, and many new systems have been introduced. However, most systems require a powerful and trusted third party to guarantee system integrity and security. With developments in blockchain technology, research has begun to highlight the core concept of decentralization. In this study, we introduce the first decentralized electronic voting and bidding systems based on a blockchain and smart contract. We also use cryptographic techniques such as oblivious transfer and homomorphic encryptions to improve privacy protection. Our proposed systems allow voters and bidders to participate in the opening phase and improve participant anonymity, the privacy of data transmission, and data reliability and verifiability. Moreover, compared with other electronic voting and bidding systems, our systems are safer and more efficient.
Modeling and Analysis of Adaptive Temperature Compensation for Humidity Sensors
Authors: Xu Wei , Feng Xiaoyu , Xing Hongyan
Published: April 2019

In addition to being sensitive to humidity, humidity sensors with moisture sensitive elements are also sensitive to ambient temperature. The fusion of temperature and humidity data is an effective way to improve the accuracy of humidity sensors. In view of the problem of insufficient adaptive ability and poor universality in the current compensation algorithm, a piecewise processing of measured error at different temperatures by using multiple linear regression is proposed in this paper. The least squares method and back propagation (BP) neural network improved by a genetic simulated annealing algorithm (GSA-BP) were used to compensate the measured humidity data of different temperature ranges. The efficiency of the GSA-BP algorithm was tested, and the compensation function model was established. The compensation accuracy was also compared with the accuracies obtained by other methods. The experimental results show that the adaptive segmentation compensation method can significantly improve the measured error of the humidity sensor over a wide temperature range.
Capnophilic Lactic Fermentation from Thermotoga neapolitana: A Resourceful Pathway to Obtain Almost Enantiopure L-lactic Acid
Authors: Nuzzo Genoveffa , Landi Simone , Esercizio Nunzia , Manzo Emiliano , Fontana Angelo , d’Ippolito Giuliana
Published: April 2019

The industrial production of lactic acid (LA) is mainly based on bacterial fermentation. This process can result in enantiopure or racemic mixture according to the producing organism. Between the enantiomers, L-lactic acid shows superior market value. Recently, we reported a novel anaplerotic pathway called capnophilic lactic fermentation (CLF) that produces a high concentration of LA by fermentation of sugar in the anaerobic thermophilic bacterium Thermotoga neapolitana. The aim of this work was the identification of the enantiomeric characterization of the LA produced by T. neapolitana and identification of the lactate dehydrogenase in T. neapolitana (TnLDH) and related bacteria of the order Thermotogales. Chemical derivatization and GC/MS analysis were applied to define the stereochemistry of LA from T. neapolitana. A bioinformatics study on TnLDH was carried out for the characterization of the enzyme. Chemical analysis showed a 95.2% enantiomeric excess of L-LA produced by T. neapolitana. A phylogenetic approach clearly clustered the TnLDH together with the L-LDH from lactic acid bacteria. We report for the first time that T. neapolitana is able to produce almost enantiopure L-lactic acid. The result was confirmed by bioinformatics analysis on TnLDH, which is a member of the L-LDH sub-family.
Turbulence and Microprocesses in Inhomogeneous Solar Wind Plasmas
Authors: Krafft Catherine , Volokitin Alexander S. , Gauthier Gaëtan
Published: April 2019

The random density fluctuations observed in the solar wind plasma crucially influence on the Langmuir wave turbulence generated by energetic electron beams ejected during solar bursts. Those are powerful phenomena consisting of a chain of successive processes leading ultimately to strong electromagnetic emissions. The small-scale processes governing the interactions between the waves, the beams and the inhomogeneous plasmas need to be studied to explain such macroscopic phenomena. Moreover, the complexity induced by the plasma irregularities requires to find new approaches and modelling. Therefore theoretical and numerical tools were built to describe the Langmuir wave turbulence and the beam’s dynamics in inhomogeneous plasmas, in the form of a self-consistent Hamiltonian model including a fluid description for the plasma and a kinetic approach for the beam. On this basis, numerical simulations were performed in order to shed light on the impact of the density fluctuations on the beam dynamics, the electromagnetic wave radiation, the generation of Langmuir wave turbulence, the waves’ coupling and decay phenomena involving Langmuir and low frequency waves, the acceleration of beam electrons, their diffusion mechanisms, the modulation of the Langmuir waveforms and the statistical properties of the radiated fields’ distributions. The paper presents the main results obtained in the form of a review.
Propagation from Basal Epicormic Meristems Remediates an Aging-Related Disorder in Almond Clones
Authors: Gradziel Thomas , Lampinen Bruce , Preece John E.
Published: April 2019

The asexual propagation of clonal crops has allowed cultivation of superior selections for thousands of years. With time, some clones deteriorate from genetic and epigenetic changes. Non-infectious bud-failure (NBF) in cultivated almond (Prunus dulcis) is a commercially important age-related disorder that results in the failure of new vegetative buds to grow in the spring, with dieback of terminal shoots, witches-brooming of surviving buds, and deformed bark (roughbark). The incidence of NBF increases with clone age, including within individual long-lived trees as well as nursery propagation lineages. It is not associated with any infectious disease agents. Consequently, nursery practices emphasize the establishment of foundation-mother blocks utilizing propagation-wood selected from proven and well-monitored propagation-lineages. Commercial propagation utilizes axillary shoot buds through traditional budding or grafting. This study examines NBF development using basal epicormic buds from individual trees of advanced age as an alternative source of foundation stock. Results show the age-related progression of NBF is suppressed in these epicormic meristems, possibly owing to their unique origins and ontogeny. NBF development in commercial orchards propagated from foundation blocks established from these sources was similarly dramatically suppressed even over the 10- to 20-year expected commercial orchard-life. Foundation-stock stability can be further maintained through appropriate management of propagation source-trees, which requires accurate knowledge of meristem origin and development.
Effects of 1-MCP on Quality and Storability of Cherry Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)
Authors: Taye Adanech , Tilahun Shimeles , Seo Mu , Park Do , Jeong Cheon
Published: April 2019

Cherry tomato is a perishable fruit due to its high rate of ethylene production and respiration during ripening. 1-Methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) is known to control ripening and reduce decay of fruit by inhibiting ethylene action. In the present study, the influence of 1-MCP application on quality and storability of ‘Unicorn’ cherry tomato was observed. Fruit at pink and red maturity stages were put in the commercial plastic containers and sealed with 40 μm low density polyethylene (LDPE) film, treated with 1-MCP (0 µL L−1 (control), 0.035 µL L−1 and 0.1 µL L−1), and stored at 10 °C in 85 ± 5% relative humidity (RH). The results indicated that application of 1-MCP at 0.1 µL L−1 significantly affected firmness, cell wall thickness, water soluble pectin, weight loss, surface color, lycopene content and physiological parameters in both pink and red maturity stages compared to 0.035 µL L−1 and control. 1-MCP treatment at 0.1 µL L−1 kept the fruits firmer than 0.035 µL L−1 and the control throughout the storage period for both maturity stages. Cell wall degradation in the control treatment was higher compared to the 0.1 µL L−1 1-MCP treated fruits in both maturity stages throughout the storage period. Results of this study revealed the effectiveness of application of 0.1 µL L−1 1-MCP on quality and shelf life of cherry tomato.
Theory Content, Question-Behavior Effects, or Form of Delivery Effects for Intention to Become an Organ Donor? Two Randomized Trials
Authors: Doyle Frank , Morgan Karen , Mathew Mary , Palatty Princy , Kamat Prashanti , Doherty Sally , Quigley Jody , Henderson Josh , O’Carroll Ronan
Published: April 2019

Eliciting different attitudes with survey questionnaires may impact on intention to donate organs. Previous research used varying numbers of questionnaire items, or different modes of intervention delivery, when comparing groups. We aimed to determine whether intention to donate organs differed among groups exposed to different theoretical content, but similar questionnaire length, in different countries. We tested the effect of excluding affective attitudinal items on intention to donate, using constant item numbers in two modes of intervention delivery. Study 1: A multi-country, interviewer-led, cross-sectional randomized trial recruited 1007 participants, who completed questionnaires as per group assignment: including all affective attitude items, affective attitude items replaced, negatively-worded affective attitude items replaced. Study 2 recruited a UK-representative, cross-sectional sample of 616 participants using an online methodology, randomly assigned to the same conditions. Multilevel models assessed effects of group membership on outcomes: intention to donate (primary), taking a donor card, following a web-link (secondary). In study 1, intention to donate did not differ among groups. Study 2 found a small, significantly higher intention to donate in the negatively-worded affective attitudes replaced group. Combining data yielded no group differences. No differences were seen for secondary outcomes. Ancillary analyses suggest significant interviewer effects. Contrary to previous research, theoretical content may be less relevant than number or valence of questionnaire items, or form of intervention delivery, for increasing intention to donate organs.