bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ADECUACIONES ESPECÍFICAS PARA LA FASE DE ESFUERZO FINAL EN LA IMPULSIÓN DE LA BALA, DE LOS ATLETAS DE LA CATEGORÍA SUB 16 SEXO MASCULINO DE LA FEDERACIÓN DEPORTIVA DE TUNGURAHUA.
Authors: Montoro Bombú Raynier , Quizhpe Luzuriaga Vladimir , Zapata Mocha Esmeralda Giovanna , Espinoza Álvarez Edlita Ivonne
Published: December 2018

El atletismo es un deporte tan antiguo como el hombre, pues correr, saltar y lanzar han sido siempre habilidades motrices básicas que han caracterizado su continuación sobre la tierra. A lo largo del tiempo ellas conformaron un conjunto de actividades físicas que unos le llaman atletismo (athletics) y otros Tiempo y Marca. Raynier Montoro (2011). Ecuador goza de un elevado prestigio internacional en el deporte de Atletismo, donde se destacan las disciplinas de saltos, lanzamientos, medio fondo, eventos múltiples y velocidad – vallas cortas, no siendo así en las disciplinas de lanzamientos uno de los elementos que pueden justificar los pobres resultados en esta disciplina. La evolución alcanzada por las Ciencias del Deporte y en particular de la Biomecánica como herramienta indispensable para ayuda a analizar evidentemente las destrezas motoras de ser humano, evaluando de forma eficiente la técnica y permitiendo la corrección de fallas existentes. En este sentido se realizó una investigación en los atletas sub 16 de la Federación deportiva de Tungurahua donde por medio del análisis biomecánico se pudo identificar los errores de la ejecución técnica y diseñar un conjunto de ejercicios especiales para el perfeccionamiento de la ejecución técnica de Impulsión de la Bala en la fase de esfuerzo final. El trabajo se llevó a cabo a través de la filmación de la ejecución técnica con una cámara digital, lo que permitió a introducir al software hu-ma-n, y la computadora como soporte para desarrollar este software que permitió posterior mente realizar el análisis biomecánico de la ejecución técnica de la impulsión de la bala. Para ello se emplearon los métodos teórico, análisis –síntesis, Inducción-deducción y empíricos que permitieron llevar el orden lógico de la investigación y realizar las adecuaciones técnicas mediante los ejercicios propuesto la investigación.
Empowerment como productor del compromiso laboral en docentes de la UTA.
Authors: Morales Fiallos Pablo Ricardo , Morales Carrasco Carlos Rodrigo
Published: December 2018

La presente investigación tiene el propósito de dar a conocer los niveles de Empowerment aplicados en los docentes que prestan sus servicios profesionales en los predios de la Universidad Técnica de Ambato,  relacionando de esta manera dos variables cuyo campo ha sido poco explorado, desde la perceptiva organizacional, el Empowerment como productor del Compromiso Laboral; para ello es importante recalcar que la investigación se enfoca en 4 facultades representativas de la Universidad, tanto en hombres como en mujeres sin importar el tiempo de llevar con sus funciones en el puesto. Esta investigación establece la gran importancia que tiene la supervisión y nivel de responsabilidades que un colaborador percibe en su puesto de trabajo.

Para el logro de objetivos se desarrolló un estudio de tipo exploratorio, correlacional y transeccional. La recolección de la información se realizó a través de la aplicación de una herramienta de escalamiento tipo Likert, denominada Escala CL-SPC, la misma que fue diseñada y elaborada por la Psicóloga Sonia Palma Carrillo como parte de sus actividades de profesora investigadora en la Facultad de Psicología de la Universidad Ricardo Palma (Lima, Perú). Un cuestionario que integra varios factores que miden esencialmente clima organizacional, y proyectan niveles de empoderamiento y compromiso laboral.

Los principales resultados permiten afirmar que sí existe diferencia significativa entre las variables de estudio, principalmente en lo que respecta al sexo (p-value: 0.04761 *) y las facultades que conforman la UTA (p-value: 6.977e-06 ***), afirmando de esta manera, la existencia de un nivel moderado del Compromiso Organizacional de los docentes, muy íntimamente relacionado con el  nivel de Empoderamiento que perciben por parte de las autoridades inmediatas, la predominancia de la dimensión afectiva y el papel modulador de las variables género.
Top of mind de las lavanderías de ropa en seco de la ciudad de Quito
Authors: Patricio Mera , Cesarl Bermeo
Published: December 2018

En los últimos años el sector del servicio doméstico ha experimentado un crecimiento muy significativo originando el auge de las empresas de lavado de ropa en seco, que se refleja en el PIB sectorial que según proyecciones del Banco Central, lo cual se debe en gran parte al fenómeno del trabajo de la mujer fuera de casa, el incremento de personas que viven solas, que ha ocasionado que las mismas envíen sus prendas y las de sus familias, a lavar, con el fin de optimizar tiempo, y esfuerzo.

Otro factor que ha influido en el incremento de lavanderías en seco es que ya no solo la población de clase alta tiene acceso a este servicio, sino que también la clase media ha accedido a esta innovadora forma de ahorrar tiempo y esfuerzo, ya que en su mayoría son jóvenes amas de casa y empresarias, creando la necesidad de empresas de lavado en seco con el fin de satisfacer esta demanda creciente.

El objetivo de este estudio es determinar el posicionamiento de las lavanderías de ropa en seco “Top of mind”, ocupando “La Química” el primer lugar en la mente del consumidor seguido por Martinizingy en tercer lugar por Clean&Clean, para efectuar este estudiose aplicó el método analítico y descriptivo, ya que este nos ayuda a revelar e identificar y describir las marcas de las lavanderías en la mente del consumidor, utilizamos como instrumento de recolección de datos la encuesta.
Analysis of Farmers’ Stated Risk Using Lotteries and Their Perceptions of Climate Change in the Northwest of Mexico
Authors: Orduño Torres Miguel Angel , Kallas Zein , Ornelas Herrera Selene Ivette
Published: December 2018

Risk attitudes are relevant factors affecting production, management and investment decisions at the farm level. They are key factors related to farmers’ attitudes towards the environment and climate change. Several methodological approaches, which were considered to be preferable for measuring the level of risk of an economic agent, ranging from highly risk-tolerant to highly risk-averse attitudes, are available. The Multiple Price List (MPL) method is one of the stated approaches that is gaining relevance. In this study, we apply the MPL and relate the risk outcomes to farmers’ socio-economic characteristics and their perceptions of the environment and climate change. Data were collected using a face-to-face survey, carried out with a group of 370 farmers of an irrigation district, located in the northwest of Mexico. The results showed a risk level of about 0.32, according to the Constant Relative Risk Aversion (CRRA) coefficient, locating farmers of the region in a risk-averse group. The heterogeneity analysis showed that the socioeconomic factors and the perceptions of climate change are related to the farmers´ stated risk level. Farmers who are young women, with a tendency to use public support for structural investment, were shown to be risk-tolerant. Farmers considered floods, hail, diseases, pests, and weed growth incidences to be the most frequent weather patterns in the region.
Potential Application of Prunus armeniaca L. and P. domestica L. Leaf Essential Oils as Antioxidant and of Cholinesterases Inhibitors
Authors: Bonesi Marco , Tenuta Maria Concetta , Loizzo Monica R. , Sicari Vincenzo , Tundis Rosa
Published: December 2018

The aim of this work is to investigate the in vitro acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrycholinesterase (BChE) inhibitory activities of essential oils obtained by hydrodistillation from the leaves of Prunus armeniaca and P. domestica in relation to their composition, analysed by Gas Chromatography–Flame Ionization Detector (GC-FID) and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analyses, at different times. Moreover, considering the role of free radicals in the progression of neurodegenerative disorders, the antioxidant properties of essential oils were investigated by using, 2’-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and β-carotene bleaching tests. The relative antioxidant capacity index (RACI) was used to achieve more comprehensive comparison between analysed antioxidant effects of essential oils. P. armeniaca oils were more active than P. domestica oils against AChE. Against BChE, the most active was the essential oil from P. domestica leaves collected in August with an IC50 value of 95.80 μg/mL. This oil exerted the highest inhibitory activity of lipid peroxidation with IC50 values of 11.15 and 11.39 μg/mL after 30 and 60 min of incubation, respectively. All samples demonstrated a remarkable ABTS radicals scavenging activity, with IC50 values in the range 0.45–0.57 μg/mL in comparison to the positive control, ascorbic acid.
Application of Nitrogen and Oxygen Isotopes for Source and Fate Identification of Nitrate Pollution in Surface Water: A Review
Authors: Zhang Yan , Shi Peng , Song Jinxi , Li Qi
Published: December 2018

Nitrate pollution in surface water has become an environmental problem of global concern. The effective way for controlling the nitrate pollution of surface water is to identify the pollution source and reduce the input of nitrate. In recent decades, nitrogen (δ15N) and oxygen (δ18O) isotopes of nitrate has been used as an effective approach for identifying the source and fate of nitrate pollution in surface water. However, owing to the complexity of nitrate pollution source and the influence of isotopic fractionation, the application of this method has some limitations. In this work, we systematically discussed the fundamental principle of using nitrogen and oxygen isotopes to trace the nitrate source, the fate identification of nitrate, and the major testing techniques. Subsequently, the applications of nitrogen and oxygen isotopes for source identification of surface water were illustrated. However, there are still significant gaps in the application of the source identification and transformation mechanisms to nitrate and many research questions on these topics need to be addressed.
Preparation and in Vitro Bioactivity of Micron-sized Bioactive Glass Particles Using Spray Drying Method
Authors: Chou Yu-Jen , Hsiao Chih-Wei , Tsou Nien-Ti , Wu Meng-Huang , Shih Shao-Ju
Published: December 2018

In recent years, bioactive glasses (BGs) have attracted enormous attention with their superior bioactivity, non-toxicity and degradability. Owing to their properties, they have been applied in various biological applications. In the present work, we demonstrated that micron-sized BGs can be prepared with a spray drying method. This technique offers the advantages of low contamination and the ability of mass production, in contrast to the two major synthetic methods, conventional glass-melting and sol-gel, previously used for preparation of BGs. Characterizations of phase composition, morphology and specific surface area of spray dried BG powders were carried out and bioactivity was examined in vitro with respect to the ability to form a hydroxyapatite layer on the surface of the particles after they were immersed in simulated body fluid.
Modelling of Ion Transport in Electromembrane Systems: Impacts of Membrane Bulk and Surface Heterogeneity
Authors: Nikonenko Victor , Nebavsky Andrey , Mareev Semyon , Kovalenko Anna , Urtenov Mahamet , Pourcelly Gerald
Published: December 2018

Artificial charged membranes, similar to the biological membranes, are self-assembled nanostructured materials constructed from macromolecules. The mutual interactions of parts of macromolecules leads to phase separation and appearance of microheterogeneities within the membrane bulk. On the other hand, these interactions also cause spontaneous microheterogeneity on the membrane surface, to which macroheterogeneous structures can be added at the stage of membrane fabrication. Membrane bulk and surface heterogeneity affect essentially the properties and membrane performance in the applications in the field of separation (water desalination, salt concentration, food processing and other), energy production (fuel cells, reverse electrodialysis), chlorine-alkaline electrolysis, medicine and other. We review the models describing ion transport in ion-exchange membranes and electromembrane systems with an emphasis on the role of micro- and macroheterogeneities in and on the membranes. Irreversible thermodynamics approach, “solution-diffusion” and “pore-flow” models, the multiphase models built within the effective-medium approach are examined as the tools for describing ion transport in the membranes. 2D and 3D models involving or not convective transport in electrodialysis cells are presented and analysed. Some examples are given when specially designed surface heterogeneity on the membrane surface results in enhancement of ion transport in intensive current electrodialysis.
Electrochemical Performance and in Operando Charge Efficiency Measurements of Cu/Sn-Doped Nano Iron Electrodes
Authors: Paulraj Alagar Raj , Kiros Yohannes , Chamoun Mylad , Svengren Henrik , Noréus Dag , Göthelid Mats , Skårman Björn , Vidarsson Hilmar , Johansson Malin B.
Published: December 2018

Fe-air or Ni-Fe cells can offer low-cost and large-scale sustainable energy storage. At present, they are limited by low coulombic efficiency, low active material use, and poor rate capability. To overcome these challenges, two types of nanostructured doped iron materials were investigated: (1) copper and tin doped iron (CuSn); and (2) tin doped iron (Sn). Single-wall carbon nanotube (SWCNT) was added to the electrode and LiOH to the electrolyte. In the 2 wt. % Cu + 2 wt. % Sn sample, the addition of SWCNT increased the discharge capacity from 430 to 475 mAh g−1, and charge efficiency increased from 83% to 93.5%. With the addition of both SWCNT and LiOH, the charge efficiency and discharge capacity improved to 91% and 603 mAh g−1, respectively. Meanwhile, the 4 wt. % Sn substituted sample performance is not on par with the 2 wt. % Cu + 2 wt. % Sn sample. The dopant elements (Cu and Sn) and additives (SWCNT and LiOH) have a major impact on the electrode performance. To understand the relation between hydrogen evolution and charge current density, we have used in operando charging measurements combined with mass spectrometry to quantify the evolved hydrogen. The electrodes that were subjected to prolonged overcharge upon hydrogen evolution failed rapidly. This insight could help in the development of better charging schemes for the iron electrodes.
Immunotoxins Targeting B cell Malignancy—Progress and Problems With Immunogenicity
Authors: Vallera Daniel A. , Kreitman Robert J.
Published: December 2018

Few immunotoxins or targeted toxins have become mainline cancer therapies. Still immunotoxins continue to be of major interest and subject of research and development as alternative therapies for drug resistant cancer. A major matter of concern continues to be immunogenicity exemplified by the anti-toxin response of the treated patient. Since some of our most effective toxins are bacterial in nature and bacterial proteins are highly immunogenic, this review describes some efforts to address this pressing issue.
Decision Making within the Built Environment as a Strategy for Mitigating the Risk of Malaria and Other Vector-Borne Diseases
Authors: Obonyo Esther , Pareek Sumit , Woldu Dawit Okubatsion
Published: December 2018

Although significant efforts have been made to combat the spread of vector-borne diseases (VBDs), they still account for more than 17% of all infectious diseases. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there were 216 million estimated cases in 2016. The efforts that resulted in these positive outcomes lack long-term financial sustainability because of the significant amount of funding involved. There is, therefore, a need for more cost-effective intervention. The authors contend that design decisions in the built environment can have a positive impact on the efforts directed at mitigating the risk of malaria in a more cost-effective manner. It is known that the built environment, through features such as openings, can propagate the spread of malaria. There have been some significant efforts directed at addressing this risk. This notwithstanding, an extensive review of closely related work established that built environment professionals have limited access to information on specific ways through which their design decisions can contribute to mitigating the risk of malaria. The validity of this hypothesis was tested through evaluating the opportunities for synergies in selected parts of East Africa. Secondary data derived from relevant urban health journals as well as repositories curated by leading health agencies such as WHO were synthesized and analyzed using a web of causation approach. The outcome of the analysis is a schema of primary and secondary source (risk) factors. The use of the web of causation approach revealed the existing factor-to-factor interactions that could have a reinforcing effect. This information was used to identify the critical linkages and interdependencies across different factors. The outcome of the analysis was mapped against risk factors that can be linked to decisions made during the six primary phases of the construction life cycle: Preliminary phase, conceptual design, detailed design, construction, facilities management, and end of life/disuse. A conceptual architecture for a decision support framework has been proposed and will be developed into a prototype in subsequent efforts.
Therapy Landscape in Patients with Metastatic HER2-Positive Breast Cancer: Data from the PRAEGNANT Real-World Breast Cancer Registry
Authors: Lux Michael P. , Nabieva Naiba , Hartkopf Andreas D. , Huober Jens , Volz Bernhard , Taran Florin-Andrei , Overkamp Friedrich , Kolberg Hans-Christian , Hadji Peyman , Tesch Hans , Häberle Lothar , Ettl Johannes , Lüftner Diana , Wallwiener Markus , Müller Volkmar , Beckmann Matthias W. , Belleville Erik , Wimberger Pauline , Hielscher Carsten , Geberth Matthias , Abenhardt Wolfgang , Kurbacher Christian , Wuerstlein Rachel , Thomssen Christoph , Untch Michael , Fasching Peter A. , Janni Wolfgang , Fehm Tanja N. , Wallwiener Diethelm , Schneeweiss Andreas , Brucker Sara Y.
Published: December 2018

This study presents comprehensive real-world data on the use of anti-human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) therapies in patients with HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer (MBC). Specifically, it describes therapy patterns with trastuzumab (H), pertuzumab + trastuzumab (PH), lapatinib (L), and trastuzumab emtansine (T-DM1). The PRAEGNANT study is a real-time, real-world registry for MBC patients. All therapy lines are documented. This analysis describes the utilization of anti-HER2 therapies as well as therapy sequences. Among 1936 patients in PRAEGNANT, 451 were HER2-positive (23.3%). In the analysis set (417 patients), 53% of whom were included in PRAEGNANT in the first-line setting, 241 were treated with H, 237 with PH, 85 with L, and 125 with T-DM1 during the course of their therapies. The sequence PH → T-DM1 was administered in 51 patients. Higher Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) scores, negative hormone receptor status, and visceral or brain metastases were associated with more frequent use of this therapy sequence. Most patients received T-DM1 after treatment with pertuzumab. Both novel therapies (PH and T-DM1) are utilized in a high proportion of HER2-positive breast cancer patients. As most patients receive T-DM1 after PH, real-world data may help to clarify whether the efficacy of this sequence is similar to that in the approval study.
Comprehensive Genomic Profiling Reveals Diverse but Actionable Molecular Portfolios across Hematologic Malignancies: Implications for Next Generation Clinical Trials
Authors: Galanina Natalie , Bejar Rafael , Choi Michael , Goodman Aaron , Wieduwilt Matthew , Mulroney Carolyn , Kim Lisa , Yeerna Huwate , Tamayo Pablo , Vergilio Jo-Anne , Mughal Tariq I. , Miller Vincent , Jamieson Catriona , Kurzrock Razelle
Published: December 2018

Background: The translation of genomic discoveries to the clinic is the cornerstone of precision medicine. However, incorporating next generation sequencing (NGS) of hematologic malignancies into clinical management remains limited. Methods: We describe 235 patients who underwent integrated NGS profiling (406 genes) and analyze the alterations and their potential actionability. Results: Overall, 227 patients (96.5%) had adequate tissue. Most common diagnoses included myelodysplastic syndrome (22.9%), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (17.2%), non-Hodgkin lymphoma (13.2%), acute myeloid leukemia (11%), myeloproliferative neoplasm (9.2%), acute lymphoblastic leukemia (8.8%), and multiple myeloma (7.5%). Most patients (N = 197/227 (87%)) harbored ≥1 genomic alteration(s); 170/227 (75%), ≥1 potentially actionable alteration(s) targetable by an FDA-approved (mostly off-label) or an investigational agent. Altogether, 546 distinct alterations were seen, most commonly involving TP53 (10.8%), TET2 (4.6%), and DNMT3A (4.2%). The median tumor mutational burden (TMB) was low (1.7 alterations/megabase); 12% of patients had intermediate or high TMB (higher TMB correlates with favorable response to anti-PD1/PDL1 inhibition in solid tumors). In conclusion, 96.5% of patients with hematologic malignancies have adequate tissue for comprehensive genomic profiling. Most patients had unique molecular signatures, and 75% had alterations that may be pharmacologically tractable with gene- or immune-targeted agents.
Dictyostelium: An Important Source of Structural and Functional Diversity in Drug Discovery
Authors: Kubohara Yuzuru , Kikuchi Haruhisa
Published: December 2018

The cellular slime mold Dictyostelium discoideum is an excellent model organism for the study of cell and developmental biology because of its simple life cycle and ease of use. Recent findings suggest that Dictyostelium and possibly other genera of cellular slime molds, are potential sources of novel lead compounds for pharmacological and medical research. In this review, we present supporting evidence that cellular slime molds are an untapped source of lead compounds by examining the discovery and functions of polyketide differentiation-inducing factor-1, a compound that was originally isolated as an inducer of stalk-cell differentiation in D. discoideum and, together with its derivatives, is now a promising lead compound for drug discovery in several areas. We also review other novel compounds, including secondary metabolites, that have been isolated from cellular slime molds.
Actuator Disc Approach of Wind Turbine Wake Simulation Considering Balance of Turbulence Kinetic Energy
Authors: Ren Huilai , Zhang Xiaodong , Kang Shun , Liang Sichao
Published: December 2018

The operation of the wind turbines downstream is affected by the wake of the wind turbines upstream. Wind turbine wake flow is investigated by applying the actuator disc (AD) method. The modified k-ε turbulence model is proposed by using both the turbulent kinetic energy source term and the dissipation rate source term to improve the standard k-ε turbulence model for coordinating the generation and the dissipation of the turbulent kinetic energy. The dissipation rate parameter C4ε that obeys a parabolic distribution is used, based on theoretical analysis. The force distributed on the AD is also used instead of a constant, as used in the classical AD method. The simulation results were consistent with the measurements that correspond to different kinds of wind turbines and conditions. The nacelle and the inflow turbulence intensity have great influences on accurately simulating the wake, so it is necessary to imitate the rotor along with the nacelle and accurately measure the inflow turbulence intensity.
A Novel Comprehensive Evaluation Method of Forest State Based on Unit Circle
Authors: Zhang Ganggang , Hui Gangying , Zhang Gongqiao , Hu Yanbo , Zhao Zhonghua
Published: December 2018

Comprehensive evaluation of forest state is the precondition and critical step for forest management. To solve the problem that the radar plot and unit circle only focus on the value of each the evaluation index, this paper proposes a novel method for comprehensively and simultaneously evaluating the functionality and inhomogeneity of forest state based on the modified unit circle method. We evaluated the forest state of the Quercus aliena BL. var. acuteserrata Maxim. ex Wenz. broad-leaved mixed forest in the Xiaolong Mountains Forest Area of Gansu Province and the Pinus koraiensis Sieb. et Zucc. broad-leaved mixed forest in Jilin Province in China. According to the principle of comprehensive, scientific and operability, 10 evaluation indices on forest structure and vitality were selected to construct the evaluation indicator system. Each index was normalized based on the assignment method and ensured to be strictly positive based on reciprocal transformation method. The areas and arc length of the closed graph, formed by connecting every two adjacent indicators, in the radar plot and unit circle were extracted. Based on the isoperimetric theorem (isoperimetric inequality), a comprehensive evaluation model was constructed. Compared with radar chart and unit circle method, each index in the newly proposed unit circle method is represented by an independent sector region, reflecting the contribution of the index to the overall evaluation result. Each index has the same relative importance weight, contributing to the estimation the relative sizes of each aspect of forest state. The unique area and arc length of the closed graph help summarize the overall performance with a global score. The expression effect of improved unit circle has been enhanced, and as an English proverb put it, “A picture is worth a thousand words.” The new proposed method simultaneously evaluates the functionality and inhomogeneity of the forest state and it is a powerful tool for the diagnosis of forest state problems and the decision-making of forest management.
Comment on Dhiman, R. et al. Correlation of Non-Polio Acute Flaccid Paralysis Rate with Pulse Polio Frequency in India. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2018, 15, 1755
Authors: H.S. Siddalingaiah
Published: December 2018

The authors of the published article ‘Correlation between Non-Polio Acute Flaccid Paralysis Rates with Pulse Polio Frequency in India’ [...]
Six Years of Sick Leave Spells in a Group of University Civil Workers. Can Modern Work Bring Them a New Health Problem?
Authors: Dias Adriano , Bernardes João Marcos , Fantazia Miriam Malacize , Ruiz-Frutos Carlos , Gómez-Salgado Juan
Published: December 2018

The objective of this study is to analyse sick leave episodes of a university’s collective of statutory workers in the State of São Paulo, between January 2010 and December 2015. For this, a descriptive study analysed 5776 registered spells of sick leave of four university units: agricultural sciences; human health, health and animal reproduction, and biological sciences; an administrative unit; and a university hospital. The medical expert assessment was carried out by general practitioners and psychiatrists who managed sick leave and return to work cases. Around 52% had up to three sick leave episodes, and 10% of the workers had 20 or more episodes. Each spell of sickness absence lasted a median of 30 days (IQR 8–60 days). Among all of sick leaves, 35% had as a primary cause mental or behavioural diseases, of which 30% were depressive disorders, followed by around 18% related to the musculoskeletal system and the connective tissues. In the medical reports, 80% of the workers reported pain and 30% reported psychological symptoms. The collective, seen as privileged by many for their job stability, has a high percentage of sick leave due to mental illness, with extended periods which affect the levels of disability and reduce possibilities of return.
Cold Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Comb—A Physical Approach for Pediculosis Treatment
Authors: Ten Bosch Lars , Habedank Birgit , Siebert Dominik , Mrotzek Julia , Viöl Wolfgang
Published: December 2018

Pediculosis, that is the infestation of humans with Pediculus humanus capitis (head lice), poses a worldwide problem that is as old as mankind itself. Over the centuries, man has developed a variety of remedies, all of which have ultimately culminated in the use of chemical agents. Some of these remedies are known to produce successful results. A large portion of the effective remedies used to kill lice and their eggs contain insecticides, but there is an increasing number of reports of head lice populations revealing an increased resistance. This study presents an alternative treatment approach, the efficacy of which is based on physical effects. Cold atmospheric pressure plasmas have successfully shown their formidably wide application range within the field of plasma medicine. This study presents a plasma device in its current stage of development that is engineered as a consumer product to enable an alternative physical and insecticide-free option for the treatment of pediculosis. An efficacy study concerning different developmental stages of P. humanus humanus is presented. P. humanus humanus was chosen as a substitute test organism for P. humanus capitis due to possible laboratory rearing and high anatomic similarity. The study shows how a single stroke of the plasma device over a hair strand (approximately 22 cm in length with a weight of 1.5 g) led to mortality rates of 68.3% (50.0; 79.7) (95% CI) in the juvenile test group, a mortality rate of approx. 67.7% (54.9; 78.8) (95% CI) in the female test group, and approx. 46.7% (28.3; 65.7) (95% CI) in the male test group. When single eggs were introduced directly into the plasma for approx. 1 s, younger eggs (0–2 d) showed a higher mortality of 66.7% (42.7; 82.7) than the older (4–6 d) eggs, with 16.7% (5.6; 34.7) (CI). Furthermore, the results of a risk assessment of the device are described. The article concludes with necessary handling instructions as well as further developmental steps, derived from the results of the efficacy and the risk assessment study.
Dietary l-Tryptophan Supplementation Enhances the Intestinal Mucosal Barrier Function in Weaned Piglets: Implication of Tryptophan-Metabolizing Microbiota
Authors: Liang Haiwei , Dai Zhaolai , Kou Jiao , Sun Kaiji , Chen Jingqing , Yang Ying , Wu Guoyao , Wu Zhenlong
Published: December 2018

l-Tryptophan (Trp) is known to play an important role in the health of the large intestine. However, a role of dietary Trp in the small-intestinal mucosal barrier and microbiota remains poorly understood. The present study was conducted with weaned piglets to address this issue. Postweaning piglets were fed for 4 weeks a corn- and soybean meal-based diet supplemented with 0 (Control), 0.1, 0.2, or 0.4% Trp. The small-intestinal microbiota and serum amino acids were analyzed by bacterial 16S rRNA gene-based high-throughput sequencing methods and high-performance liquid chromatography, respectively. The mRNA levels for genes involved in host defense and the abundances of tight-junction proteins in jejunum and duodenum were measured by real time-PCR and Western blot techniques, respectively. The concentrations of Trp in the serum of Trp-supplemented piglets increased in a dose-dependent manner. Compared with the control group, dietary supplementation with 0.2–0.4% Trp reduced the abundances of Clostridium sensu stricto and Streptococcus in the jejunum, increased the abundances of Lactobacillus and Clostridium XI (two species of bacteria that can metabolize Trp) in the jejunum, and augmented the concentrations of secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA) as well as mRNA levels for porcine β-defensins 2 and 3 in jejunal tissues. Moreover, dietary Trp supplementation activated the mammalian target of rapamycin signaling and increased the abundances of tight-junction proteins (zonula occludens (ZO)-1, ZO-3, and claudin-1) in jejunum and duodenum. We suggested that Trp-metabolizing bacteria in the small intestine of weaned pigs primarily mediated the beneficial effects of dietary Trp on its mucosal integrity, health, and function.
Identification of Fatty Acid Desaturase 6 in Golden Pompano Trachinotus Ovatus (Linnaeus 1758) and Its Regulation by the PPARαb Transcription Factor
Authors: Zhu Ke-Cheng , Song Ling , Guo Hua-Yang , Guo Liang , Zhang Nan , Liu Bao-Suo , Jiang Shi-Gui , Zhang Dian-Chang
Published: December 2018

Fatty acid desaturases are rate-limiting enzymes in long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid biosynthesis. The transcription factor peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha b (PPARαb) regulates lipid metabolism in mammals, however, the mechanism whereby PPARαb regulates fatty acid desaturases is largely unknown in fish. In this study, we report the full length cDNA sequence of Trachinotus ovatus fatty acid desaturase, which encodes a 380 amino acid polypeptide, possessing three characteristic histidine domains. Phylogenetic and gene exon/intron structure analyses showed typical phylogeny: the T. ovatus fatty acid desaturase contained a highly conserved exon/intron architecture. Moreover, functional characterization by heterologous expression in yeast indicated that T. ovatus desaturase was a fatty acid desaturase, with Δ4/Δ5/Δ8 Fad activity. Promoter activity assays indicated that ToFads6 desaturase transcription was positively regulated by PPARαb. Similarly, PPARαb RNA interference decreased ToPPARαb and ToFads6 expression at the mRNA and protein levels in a time-dependent manner. Mutation analyses showed that the M2 binding site of PPARαb was functionally important for protein binding, and transcriptional activity of the ToFads6 promoter was significantly decreased after targeted mutation of M2. Electrophoretic mobile shift assays confirmed that PPARαb interacted with the binding site of the ToFads6 promoter region, to regulate ToFads6 transcription. In summary, PPARαb played a vital role in ToFads6 regulation and may promote the biosynthesis of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids by regulating ToFads6 expression.
ConA-Like Lectins: High Similarity Proteins as Models to Study Structure/Biological Activities Relationships
Authors: Cavada Benildo S. , Pinto-Junior Vanir R. , Osterne Vinicius J. S. , Nascimento Kyria S.
Published: December 2018

Lectins are a widely studied group of proteins capable of specific and reversible binding to carbohydrates. Undoubtedly, the best characterized are those extracted from plants of the Leguminosae family. Inside this group of proteins, those from the Diocleinae subtribe have attracted attention, in particular Concanavalin A (ConA), the best-studied lectin of the group. Diocleinae lectins, also called ConA-like lectins, present a high similarity of sequence and three-dimensional structure and are known to present inflammatory, vasoactive, antibiotic, immunomodulatory and antitumor activities, among others. This high similarity of lectins inside the ConA-like group makes it possible to use them to study structure/biological activity relationships by the variability of both carbohydrate specificity and biological activities results. It is in this context the following review aims to summarize the most recent data on the biochemical and structural properties, as well as biological activities, of ConA-like lectins and the use of these lectins as models to study structure/biological activity relationships.
DNA Damage and Repair in Human Reproductive Cells
Authors: García-Rodríguez Anaís , Gosálvez Jaime , Agarwal Ashok , Roy Rosa , Johnston Stephen
Published: December 2018

The fundamental underlying paradigm of sexual reproduction is the production of male and female gametes of sufficient genetic difference and quality that, following syngamy, they result in embryos with genomic potential to allow for future adaptive change and the ability to respond to selective pressure. The fusion of dissimilar gametes resulting in the formation of a normal and viable embryo is known as anisogamy, and is concomitant with precise structural, physiological, and molecular control of gamete function for species survival. However, along the reproductive life cycle of all organisms, both male and female gametes can be exposed to an array of “stressors” that may adversely affect the composition and biological integrity of their proteins, lipids and nucleic acids, that may consequently compromise their capacity to produce normal embryos. The aim of this review is to highlight gamete genome organization, differences in the chronology of gamete production between the male and female, the inherent DNA protective mechanisms in these reproductive cells, the aetiology of DNA damage in germ cells, and the remarkable DNA repair mechanisms, pre- and post-syngamy, that function to maintain genome integrity.
Isolation and Characterization of Functionally Active Extracellular Vesicles from Culture Medium Conditioned by Bovine Embryos In Vitro
Authors: Pavani Krishna Chaitanya , Hendrix An , Van Den Broeck Wim , Couck Liesbeth , Szymanska Katarzyna , Lin Xiaoyuan , De Koster Jenne , Van Soom Ann , Leemans Bart
Published: December 2018

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) play a possible role in cell–cell communication and are found in various body fluids and cell conditioned culture media. The aim of this study was to isolate and characterize EVs in culture medium conditioned by bovine embryos in group and to verify if these EVs are functionally active. Initially, ultracentrifuged bovine serum albumin (BSA) containing medium was selected as suitable EV-free embryo culture medium. Next, EVs were isolated from embryo conditioned culture medium by OptiPrepTM density gradient ultracentrifugation. Isolated EVs were characterized by nanoparticle tracking analysis, western blotting, transmission, and immunoelectron microscopy. Bovine embryo-derived EVs were sizing between 25–230 nm with an average concentration of 236.5 ± 1.27 × 108 particles/mL. Moreover, PKH67 EV pre-labeling showed that embryo-secreted EVs were uptaken by zona-intact bovine embryos. Since BSA did not appear to be a contaminating EV source in culture medium, EV functionality was tested in BSA containing medium. Individual embryo culture in BSA medium enriched with EVs derived from conditioned embryo culture medium showed significantly higher blastocyst rates at day 7 and 8 together with a significantly lower apoptotic cell ratio. In conclusion, our study shows that EVs play an important role in inter embryo communication during bovine embryo culture in group.
Metformin: A Candidate Drug for Renal Diseases
Authors: Corremans Raphaëlle , Vervaet Benjamin A. , D’Haese Patrick C. , Neven Ellen , Verhulst Anja
Published: December 2018

Over the past decades metformin has been the optimal first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Only in the last few years, it has become increasingly clear that metformin exerts benign pleiotropic actions beyond its prescribed use and ongoing investigations focus on a putative beneficial impact of metformin on the kidney. Both acute kidney injury (AKI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD), two major renal health issues, often result in the need for renal replacement therapy (dialysis or transplantation) with a high socio-economic impact for the patients. Unfortunately, to date, effective treatment directly targeting the kidney is lacking. Metformin has been shown to exert beneficial effects on the kidney in various clinical trials and experimental studies performed in divergent rodent models representing different types of renal diseases going from AKI to CKD. Despite growing evidence on metformin as a candidate drug for renal diseases, in-depth research is imperative to unravel the molecular signaling pathways responsible for metformin’s renoprotective actions. This review will discuss the current state-of-the-art literature on clinical and preclinical data, and put forward potential cellular mechanisms and molecular pathways by which metformin ameliorates AKI/CKD.
From Homo Sapiens to Robo Sapiens: The Evolution of Intelligence
Authors: Ringel Raveh Anat , Tamir Boaz
Published: December 2018

In this paper, we present a review of recent developments in artificial intelligence (AI) towards the possibility of an artificial intelligence equal that of human intelligence. AI technology has always shown a stepwise increase in its capacity and complexity. The last step took place several years ago with the increased progress in deep neural network technology. Each such step goes hand in hand with our understanding of ourselves and our understanding of human cognition. Indeed, AI was always about the question of understanding human nature. AI percolates into our lives, changing our environment. We believe that the next few steps in AI technology, and in our understanding of human behavior, will bring about much more powerful machines that are flexible enough to resemble human behavior. In this context, there are two research fields: Artificial Social Intelligence (ASI) and General Artificial Intelligence (AGI). The authors also allude to one of the main challenges for AI, embodied cognition, and explain how it can be viewed as an opportunity for further progress in AI research.
Hypertension Assessment Using Photoplethysmography: A Risk Stratification Approach
Authors: Liang Yongbo , Chen Zhencheng , Ward Rabab , Elgendi Mohamed
Published: December 2018

Hypertension is a common chronic cardiovascular disease (CVD). Early screening and diagnosis of hypertension plays a major role in its prevention and in the control of CVDs. Our study discusses the early screening of hypertension while using the morphological features of photoplethysmography (PPG). Numerous morphological features of PPG and its derivative waves were defined and extracted. Six types of feature selection methods were chosen to screen and evaluate these PPG morphological features. The optimal features were comprehensively analyzed in relation to the physiological processes of the cardiovascular circulatory system. Particularly, the intrinsic relation and physiological significance between the formation process of systolic blood pressure (SBP) and PPG morphology features were analyzed in depth. A variety of linear and nonlinear classification models were established for the comparison trials. The F1 scores for the normotension versus prehypertension, normotension and prehypertension versus hypertension, and normotension versus hypertension trials were 72.97%, 81.82%, and 92.31%, respectively. In summary, this study established a PPG characteristic analysis model and established the intrinsic relationship between SBP and PPG characteristics. Finally, the risk stratification of hypertension at different stages was examined and compared based on the optimal feature subset.
Factors, Outcome, and the Solutions of Supply Chain Finance: Review and the Future Directions
Authors: Marak Zericho R , Pillai Deepa
Published: December 2018

In the current highly competitive and fast-changing business environment, in which the optimisation of all resources matters, creating an efficient supply chain is crucial. Earlier studies on supply chains have focussed on aligning product/services and information flows while neglecting the financial aspects. Due to this, in recent times, importance has been given to align financial flows with the other components of the supply chain. The interest in supply chain finance rose after the financial crisis when the bank loans declined considerably, as the need for better management and the optimisation of working capital became obvious. This paper reviews the articles on supply chain finance based on three themes—factors, outcomes, and solutions—while at the same time providing directions for future research on supply chain finance. This article is unique, as it investigates the factors affecting supply chains according to the existing literature. It also sheds light on the outcome of the supply chain without limiting the discussion only to the benefits. Further, it addresses the question: what are the solutions constituting supply chain finance?
Developing an Optimal Class of Generic Sixteenth-Order Simple-Root Finders and Investigating Their Dynamics
Authors: Geum Young Hee , Kim Young Ik , Neta Beny
Published: December 2018

Developed here are sixteenth-order simple-root-finding optimal methods with generic weight functions. Their numerical and dynamical aspects are investigated with the establishment of a main theorem describing the desired optimal convergence. Special cases with polynomial and rational weight functions have been extensively studied for applications to real-world problems. A number of computational experiments clearly support the underlying theory on the local convergence of the proposed methods. In addition, to investigate the relevant global convergence, we focus on the dynamics of the developed methods, as well as other known methods through the visual description of attraction basins. Finally, we summarized the results, discussion, conclusion, and future work.
Design of Fuzzy Sampling Plan Using the Birnbaum-Saunders Distribution
Authors: Khan Muhammad Zahir , Khan Muhammad Farid , Aslam Muhammad , Mughal Abdur Razzaque
Published: December 2018

Acceptance sampling is one of the essential areas of quality control. In a conventional environment, probability theory is used to study acceptance sampling plans. In some situations, it is not possible to apply conventional techniques due to vagueness in the values emerging from the complexities of processor measurement methods. There are two types of acceptance sampling plans: attribute and variable. One of the important elements in attribute acceptance sampling is the proportion of defective items. In some situations, this proportion is not a precise value, but vague. In this case, it is suitable to apply flexible techniques to study the fuzzy proportion. Fuzzy set theory is used to investigate such concepts. It is observed there is no research available to apply Birnbaum-Saunders distribution in fuzzy acceptance sampling. In this article, it is assumed that the proportion of defective items is fuzzy and follows the Birnbaum-Saunders distribution. A single acceptance sampling plan, based on binomial distribution, is used to design the fuzzy operating characteristic (FOC) curve. Results are illustrated with examples. One real-life example is also presented in the article. The results show the behavior of curves with different combinations of parameters of Birnbaum-Saunders distribution. The novelty of this study is to use the probability distribution function of Birnbaum-Saunders distribution as a proportion of defective items and find the acceptance probability in a fuzzy environment. This is an application of Birnbaum-Saunders distribution in fuzzy acceptance sampling.
A Study of the Mechanical and Thermal Characteristics of an Al-Si-Fe Alloy Fabricated by Rolling and Heat Treatment
Authors: Guo Yu , Wang Ye , Yang Jieren , Xu Hongyu , Hu Maoliang , Ji Zesheng
Published: December 2018

The effects of a rolling process and heat treatment on the mechanical and thermal properties of an Al-Si-Fe alloy were studied. The achieved thermal conductivity of the as-rolled alloy treated by a T6 heat treatment was 188.22 W/(m·K), which is as good as that of the as-cast alloy treated by the T6 heat treatment directly, mostly because of changes in the silicon morphology. The results also revealed that the lower quantity of precipitated Al8Fe2Si and Mg2Si phases had no obvious effect on the thermal properties of the material because the interphase spaces between precipitated phases were larger than the mean free path of electrons. However, the precipitated second phases influenced the elongation. The best mechanical properties of the Al-Si-Fe alloy were obtained by rolling and T6 treatment. The corresponding best tensile strength, yield strength, and elongation were 244 MPa, 295 MPa, and 9.56%, respectively, which are attributed to the near-spherical shape, small size, homogeneous distribution of the Si particles, and the precipitation strengthening of Mg2Si.