bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Síndrome de Gorlin-Goltz: Relato de dois casos
Authors: De Souza Gabriela Higino , Ormay Mariana Santiago , D'Elia Marcella Leal Novello , Correia Priscila Silva , Silva Solange Cardoso Maciel Costa
Published: December 2017

A síndrome de Gorlin-Goltz é uma rara desordem hereditária autossômica dominante, causada pela mutação no gene PTCH1. A tríade clássica descrita por Gorlin e Goltz em 1960 é composta por múltiplos carcinomas basocelulares, cistos odontogênicos e costela bífida, porém várias outras alterações podem estar presentes, como pits palmoplantares, calcificações da foice cerebral, neoplasias raras como o meduloblastoma, malformações congênitas, macrocefalia e diversas alterações esqueléticas1. O diagnóstico é baseado em critérios clínicos, radiológicos e presença de parente de primeiro grau com a síndrome1,3. Relatamos dois casos que ilustram a necessidade de exame clínico rigoroso, investigação radiológica e acompanhamento multidisciplinar após a suspeita clínica, já que a expectativa de vida geralmente não é afetada, porém o potencial de morbidade pode ser considerável2.
Vitiligo Instabilizado em Contexto de Hipermelanose Difusa: Uma Apresentação Inusitada de uma Síndrome de Schmidt
Authors: Tavares Bello Rui , Tavares Bello Carlos , Sequeira Duarte João , Vasconcelos Carlos
Published: December 2017

O vitiligo, uma leucodermia adquirida particularmente prevalente, caracteriza-se pelo impacto psicossocial, cronicidade e resistência aos tratamentos. Na sua génese intervêm de forma intrincada mecanismos genéticos, ambientais, stress oxidativo e autoimunidade. As comorbilidades imunologicamente mediadas ocorrem com frequência variável mas significativa e devem justificar uma atenção redobrada por parte dos Dermatologistas. A síndrome de Schmidt – síndrome poliglandular autoimune do tipo II é definida pela ocorrência de doença de Addison e patologia autoimune da tiroideia e/ou diabetes mellitus tipo 1. Relatamos caso de uma doente com 64 anos de idade, com antecedentes de doenças imunologicamente mediadas, incluindo história de tiroidite autoimune e de vitiligo acrofacial estável o qual, nos últimos 3 meses, sofrera uma modificação impressiva nas suas extensão e morfologia, no contexto de uma melanodermia difusa recém-instalada. A avaliação laboratorial efectuada documentou hipocortisolismo, ulteriormente confirmado por provas funcionais, bem como marcadores imunológicos e imagiologia compatíveis: doença de Addison autoimune enquadrável numa síndrome de Schmidt. A correcção da insuficiência endócrina permitiu equilibrar a doente nos planos hidroelectrolítico e metabólico, tendo sido observados uma reversão da hipermelanose e estabilização do vitiligo. Salientamse a progressão importante de um vitiligo até então estável; as novas particularidades morfológicas da dermatose – lesões em confetti, vitiligo tricrómico e fenómeno de Koebner – e a hipermelanose difusa numa doente com história de múltiplas manifestações de autoimunidade. Conclui-se pela necessidade de reconhecer e, logo, suspeitar de comorbilidades imunologicamente mediadas do vitiligo, em particular quando na presença de atipias semiológicas ou evolutivas e no contexto de história clínica sugestiva.
Tumor de Colisão: Um Desafio Diagnóstico
Authors: Miroux Catarino Alexandre , Catorze Maria Goreti , Pereira Ângela , Viana Isabel
Published: December 2017

A coexistência de duas ou mais neoplasias diferentes, benignas ou malignas, na mesma lesão cutânea é designada “tumor de colisão”. O diagnóstico clínico é difícil e a dermatoscopia é uma ferramenta frequentemente útil, que pode no entanto não ser esclarecedora. Trazemos o caso de uma associação rara entre um nevo azul e um histiocitofibroma que tanto clínica como dermatoscopicamente se podia confundir com melanoma maligno.
Toxidermias em idade pediátrica
Authors: Machado Mafalda Araújo , Cruz Maria João , Cruz Maria João , Mota Alberto , Mota Alberto
Published: December 2017

As toxidermias em idade pediátrica são muito frequentes, contudo existem características específicas desta faixa etária pouco estudadas. Estas diferem das toxidermias do adulto em termos de apresentação clínica, fármacos implicados, prognóstico e tratamento. O seu reconhecimento precoce e suspensão do fármaco causador são de extrema importância para diminuição do risco de morbimortalidade.O objetivo deste trabalho é rever as principais características que diferenciam as toxidermias da criança das do adulto, de forma a facilitar o seu reconhecimento e perceber como a sua investigação pode ser melhorada.
Paracoccidioidomicose com Acometimento Ganglionar e Mucoso - Relato de Caso
Authors: Medeiros Prohmann Caroline , De Araújo Dantas Camila , Barcelos e Silva Lorena , Figueiredo Gatti Rafael , Marçal Machado Thalita , Antônio João Roberto
Published: December 2017

A paracoccidioidomicose (também conhecida como doença de Lutz, doença de Lutz-Splendore-Almeida, blastomicose Brasileira ou blastomicose Sul Americana) foi inicialmente descrita por Lutz há quase um século. Trata-se de uma infecção fúngica sistémica, que pode apresentar-se sob duas formas clínicas: aguda/subaguda ou crónica. As lesões orais da paracoccidioidomicose são tipicamente caracterizadas por hiperplasia gengival eritematosa e finamente granular, com petéquias. Além disso, observam-se úlceras superficiais com micro granulações e ponteados hemorrágicos, que podem envolver lábios, mucosa jugal, palato, pilares amigdalianos e língua. A superfície é semelhante à amora sendo por isso denominada de “estomatite moriforme”. Apesar de comuns, essas lesões são subdiagnosticadas e o reconhecimento tardio desta patologia pode levar à rápida progressão do quadro clínico, por vezes com desfecho fatal. Relatamos o caso de um paciente jovem com adenopatias generalizadas, estomatite moriforme e sintomas constitucionais (febre, perda de peso). Destaca-se a importância do dermatologista na identificação precoce das lesões cutaneomucosas típicas da paracoccidioidomicose e no estabelecimento de um diagnóstico preciso.
PENYELESAIAN SENGKETA KOMPETENSI ABSOLUT ANTARA ARBITRASE DAN PENGADILAN
Authors: Memi Cut
Published: December 2017

ABSTRAKPasal 3 Undang-Undang Arbitrase dan Alternatif Penyelesaian Sengketa menyatakan bahwa pengadilan negeri tidak berwenang untuk mengadili sengketa para pihak yang telah terikat dengan perjanjian arbitrase, akan tetapi sampai saat ini masih saja terdapat pertentangan kompetensi absolut antara arbitrase dan pengadilan. Sebagai contoh dan sekaligus fokus dalam pembahasan tulisan ini adalah dalam hal penanganan perkara antara PT B melawan PT CTPI. Metode yang digunakan dalam kajian ini adalah metode penelitian hukum normatif. Berdasarkan Putusan Nomor 10/PDT.G/2010/PN.JKT.PST, perkara ini telah diputus oleh pengadilan dengan menyatakan bahwa Pengadilan Negeri Jakarta Pusat berwenang mengadili perkara bahkan putusan ini kemudian dikuatkan sampai tingkat peninjauan kembali di Mahkamah Agung berdasarkan Putusan Nomor 238 PK/PDT/2014. Sementara di pihak lain perkara ini juga diputus oleh Badan Arbitrase Nasional Indonesia (BANI) dengan Putusan Nomor 547/XI/ARB-BANI/2013 yang menyatakan bahwa BANI berwenang dalam mengadili perkara yang sama. Pertentangan kompetensi absolut antara dua lembaga tersebut tentu perlu diselesaikan dengan menentukan lembaga mana yang sebenarnya berwenang dalam menangani perkara bersangkutan. Berdasarkan kajian yang dilakukan dalam tulisan ini, diperoleh jawaban bahwa yang berwenang dalam mengadili perkara PT B melawan PT CTPI adalah BANI bukan pengadilan.Kata kunci: kompetensi absolut, arbitrase, pengadilan. ABSTRACTArticle 3 of Law on Arbitration and Alternative Dispute Resolution states that the district court is unlawful to decide dispute of parties bound by arbitration agreements, but to date, such absolute competence dispute between arbitration tribunal and court of law is still occurring. As an example, as well as the focus of discussion in this analysis is the case between PT B against PT CTPI. This study uses normative legal research methods. Based on Court Decision Number 10/PDT.G/2010/PN.JKT.PST, it was decided that the District Court of Central Jakarta has the authority to adjudicate the case. In fact, this decision is subsequently filed for an extraordinary request for review in the Supreme Court based on Court Decision Number 238 PK/PDT/2014. On the other hand, the case is also arbitrated by Indonesia National Board of Arbitration (BANI) by Arbitral Award Number 547/XI/ARB-BANI/2013 confirming its authority to adjudicate the same case. The absolute competence dispute between the two parties need to be resolved by determining which party is actually authorized in settling the case. Based on the analysis in this paper, it can be concluded that the case between PT B against PT CTPI is the authority of arbitration tribunal (BANI) to arbitrate, not court of law. Keywords: absolute competence, arbitration tribunal, court of law.
Revascularization of the anterior cerebral artery by Y-shaped superficial temporal artery interposition graft for the treatment of a de novo aneurysm arising at the site of A3-A3 bypass: technical case report
Authors: Endo Hidenori , Sugiyama Shin-ichiro , Endo Toshiki , Fujimura Miki , Shimizu Hiroaki , Tominaga Teiji
Published: December 2017

The most frequently used option to reconstruct the anterior cerebral artery (ACA) is an ACA-ACA side-to-side anastomosis. The long-term outcome and complications of this technique are unclear. The authors report a case of a de novo aneurysm arising at the site of A3-A3 anastomosis. A 53-year-old woman underwent A3-A3 side-to-side anastomosis for the treatment of a ruptured right A2 dissecting aneurysm. At 44 months after surgery, a de novo aneurysm developed at the site of anastomosis. The aneurysm developed in the front wall of the anastomosis site, and projected to the anterosuperior direction. A computational fluid dynamics (CFD) study showed the localized region with high wall shear stress coincident with the pulsation in the front wall of the anastomosis site, where the aneurysm developed. A Y-shaped superficial temporal artery (STA) interposition graft was used successfully to reconstruct both ACAs, and then the aneurysm was trapped. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first case of a de novo aneurysm that developed at the site of an ACA-ACA side-to-side anastomosis. A CFD study showed that hemodynamic stress might be an underlying cause of the aneurysm formation. A Y-shaped STA interposition graft is a useful option to treat this aneurysm. Long-term follow-up is necessary to detect this rare complication after ACA-ACA anastomosis.
Sir Sydney Sunderland and the Sunderland Society
Authors: Siqueira Mario Gilberto , Kline David Gellinger
Published: December 2017

In this historical vignette the relevant aspects of the life of the exceptional neuroscientist Sir Sydney Sunderland and of the foundation and development of the Sunderland Society are presented. The relationship of Sir Sydney with the Society is also emphasized.
Percentage change in hemoglobin level and morbidity in spine surgery patients
Authors: Purvis Taylor E. , Goodwin C. Rory , Molina Camilo A. , Frank Steven M. , Sciubba Daniel M.
Published: December 2017

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to characterize the association between percentage change in hemoglobin (ΔHb)—i.e., the difference between preoperative Hb and in-hospital nadir Hb concentration—and perioperative adverse events among spine surgery patients.

METHODS

Patients who underwent spine surgery at the authors’ institution between December 4, 2008, and June 26, 2015, were eligible for this retrospective study. Patients who underwent the following procedures were included: atlantoaxial fusion, subaxial anterior cervical fusion, subaxial posterior cervical fusion, anterior lumbar fusion, posterior lumbar fusion, lateral lumbar fusion, excision of intervertebral disc, and excision of spinal cord lesion. Data on intraoperative transfusion were obtained from an automated, prospectively collected, anesthesia data management system. Data on postoperative hospital transfusions were obtained through an Internet-based intelligence portal. Percentage ΔHb was defined as: ([preoperative Hb − nadir Hb]/preoperative Hb) × 100. Clinical outcomes included in-hospital morbidity and length of stay associated with percentage ΔHb.

RESULTS

A total of 3949 patients who underwent spine surgery were identified. Of these, 1204 patients (30.5%) received at least 1 unit of packed red blood cells. The median nadir Hb level was 10.6 g/dl (interquartile range 8.7–12.4 g/dl), yielding a mean percentage ΔHb of 23.6% (SD 15.4%). Perioperative complications occurred in 234 patients (5.9%) and were more common in patients with a larger percentage ΔHb (p = 0.017). Hospital-related infection, which occurred in 60 patients (1.5%), was also more common in patients with greater percentage ΔHb (p = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Percentage ΔHb is independently associated with a higher risk of developing any perioperative complication and hospital-related infection. The authors’ results suggest that percentage ΔHb may be a useful measure for identifying patients at risk for adverse perioperative events.
Impact of Daily Grazing Time on Dairy Cow Welfare—Results of the Welfare Quality® Protocol
Authors: Wagner Kathrin , Brinkmann Jan , March Solveig , Hinterstoißer Peter , Warnecke Sylvia , Schüler Maximilian , Paulsen Hans
Published: December 2017

Grazing provides livestock better opportunities to act out their species-specific behavior compared to restrictive stable conditions. The aim of the present study was to examine the effects of daily grazing time on welfare of dairy cows in organic and conventional farms based on the Welfare Quality® assessment protocol for dairy cattle (WQ®). Therefore, we applied the WQ® on 32 dairy farms (classified in 3 groups: Group 0, minor/zero grazing, n = 14; Group 1, medium grazing, n = 10; Group 2, high grazing, n = 8). We assessed the status of animal welfare once in winter and once in summer. For statistical analyses we used mixed models for repeated measures, with group, season, and their interaction as fixed factors. At the WQ® criteria level, five out of nine examined criteria improved in farms with grazing between winter and summer. In contrast, the welfare situation in minor/zero grazing farms remained largely unchanged. At the level of WQ® measures, only the individual parameters “% of cows with hairless patches” and “% of lame cows” were affected positively by high grazing. Grazing offers a potential to enhance welfare of dairy cows during the summer season, while beneficial effects are not guaranteed when management does not satisfy the animals´ needs.
Enhancing Pediatric Palliative Care for Latino Children and Their Families: A Review of the Literature and Recommendations for Research and Practice in the United States
Authors: Muñoz-Blanco Sara , Raisanen Jessica , Donohue Pamela , Boss Renee
Published: December 2017

As the demand for pediatric palliative care (PC) increases, data suggest that Latino children are less likely to receive services than non-Latino children. Evidence on how to best provide PC to Latino children is sparse. We conducted a narrative review of literature related to PC for Latino children and their families in the United States. In the United States, Latinos face multiple barriers that affect their receipt of PC, including poverty, lack of access to health insurance, language barriers, discrimination, and cultural differences. Pediatric PC research and clinical initiatives that target the needs of Latino families are sparse, underfunded, but essential. Education of providers on Latino cultural values is necessary. Additionally, advocacy efforts with a focus on equitable care and policy reform are essential to improving the health of this vulnerable population.
A CFAR-Enhanced Spectral Whitening Method for Acoustic Sensing via UAVs
Authors: Harvey Brendan , O’Young Siu
Published: December 2017

The following paper addresses the issue of performing CFAR detection on signals with colored noise distributions, such as that found when performing acoustic sensing via UAVs. With respect to the outlined considerations, a CFAR-enhanced spectral whitening method is proposed to maintain detector functionality without inhibiting detection sensitivity. The performance of the method is also demonstrated using acoustic data taken from experiments involving a fixed-wing UAV. From the results obtained, it is evident the approach performs significantly better than standard techniques such as inverse spectral whitening, which tend to attenuate acquired target source components.
Value-Creation Potential from Multi-Market Trading for a Hydropower Producer
Authors: Fodstad Marte , Aarlott Mats , Midthun Kjetil
Published: December 2017

We study a hydropower producer’s potential for value-creation from multi-market trading given the price variations in the markets and the flexibility provided through access to hydro reservoirs. We use a perfect foresight optimization model for a price-taking hydropower producer co-optimizing his trades in the day-ahead, intra-day and balancing markets. The model is used on real market data from Norway, Sweden and Germany. The study shows a theoretical potential for added value when selling energy in multiple markets relative to optimal day-ahead sale. Most of this value is achievable also when the perfect foresight is limited to the period from day-ahead bidding until operation. Flexible production plants achieve the largest relative added values for multi-market sales, and has the largest benefit from a long horizon with perfect foresight.
Onset of Convection in the Presence of a Precipitation Reaction in a Porous Medium: A Comparison of Linear Stability and Numerical Approaches
Authors: Ghoshal Parama , Kim Min , Cardoso Silvana
Published: December 2017

Reactive convection in a porous medium has received recent interest in the context of the geological storage of carbon dioxide in saline formations. We study theoretically and numerically the gravitational instability of a diffusive boundary layer in the presence of a first-order precipitation reaction. We compare the predictions from normal mode, linear stability analysis, and nonlinear numerical simulations, and discuss the relative deviations. The application of our findings to the storage of carbon dioxide in a siliciclastic aquifer shows that while the reactive-diffusive layer can become unstable within a timescale of 1 to 1.5 months after the injection of carbon dioxide, it can take almost 10 months for sufficiently vigorous convection to produce a considerable increase in the dissolution flux of carbon dioxide.
Transitioning from Forensic Genetics to Forensic Genomics
Authors: Kayser Manfred , Parson Walther
Published: December 2017

Due to its support of law enforcement, forensics is a conservative field; nevertheless, driven by scientific and technological progress, forensic genetics is slowly transitioning into forensic genomics. With this Special Issue of Genes we acknowledge and appreciate this rather recent development by not only introducing the field of forensics to the wider community of geneticists, but we do so by emphasizing on different topics of forensic relevance where genomic, transcriptomic, and epigenomic principles, methods, and datasets of humans and beyond are beginning to be used to answer forensic questions.
Comparative Transcriptome Analysis Reveals Hormone Signaling Genes Involved in the Launch of Culm-Shape Differentiation in Dendrocalamus sinicus
Authors: Chen Lingna , Guo Xiaojuan , Cui Yongzhong , Zheng Xianggan , Yang Hanqi
Published: December 2017

Dendrocalamus sinicus is a sympodial bamboo species endemic to Yunnan Province, China, and is the strongest bamboo species in the world. However, there is substantial variation in the basal culm shape, i.e., straight culm (SC) and bent culm (BC), among different D. sinicus as a result of genetic and growth factors. This study performed a comparative transcriptomic analysis of bamboo shoots of two variants at the early, mid-, and late shoot-development stages to examine the molecular basis of this variation. In total, 98,479 unigenes were annotated, of which 13,495 were differentially expressed in pairwise comparisons of the six libraries. More differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were involved in SC than in BC culm development. The DEGs between BC and SC were assigned to 108 metabolic pathways. The 1064 DEGs in early development might mainly control the launch of culm-shape differentiation. Sixty genes encoding components of hormone signaling pathways were differentially expressed between BC5 and SC5, indicating complex hormonal regulation of culm differentiation. The AUX/IAA, ARF, PP2C, SnRK2, and ABF genes involved in auxin and abscisic acid signaling played key roles. These results help us to understand the molecular mechanism of culm variation and other aspects of culm development in D. sinicus.
Efficacy of Natural Polymer Derivatives on Soil Physical Properties and Erosion on an Experimental Loess Hillslope
Authors: Liu Jun’e , Wang Zhanli , Li Yuanyuan
Published: December 2017

Raindrops disperse large soil aggregates into smaller particles, which can clog soil pores, cause soil crusting, reduce rainfall infiltration and increase soil loss. It was found that natural polymer derivatives were effective in improving soil physical properties and decreasing soil erosion on an experimental loess hillslope. This study investigated the effect of new natural polymer derivatives (Jag S and Jag C162) on soil properties, rainfall infiltration and sediment yield at four rates of sprayed polymers (0, 1, 3 and 5 g/m2), three rainfall intensities (1, 1.5 and 2 mm/min) and a slope gradient of 15° with a silt loam soil through simulated rain. The results showed that both Jag S and Jag C162 significantly increased the shear strength and improved the aggregates composition of the soil surface. The water-stable soil aggregates >0.25 mm increased from 9% to 50% with increasing rates of Jag S and Jag C162. Jag S and Jag C162 also effectively increased rainfall infiltration and final infiltration rate, and reduced erosion compared to controls without natural polymer derivatives added. However, higher rates of Jag S produced lower infiltration rates. Although both Jag S and Jag C162 effectively influenced soil physical properties and erosion, the effect of Jag C162 was more significant than that of Jag S.
The ODC 3′-Untranslated Region and 5′-Untranslated Region Contain cis-Regulatory Elements: Implications for Carcinogenesis
Authors: Nowotarski Shannon , Shantz Lisa
Published: December 2017

It has been hypothesized that both the 3′-untranslated region (3′UTR) and the 5′-untranslated region (5′UTR) of the ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) mRNA influence the expression of the ODC protein. Here, we use luciferase expression constructs to examine the influence of both UTRs in keratinocyte derived cell lines. The ODC 5′UTR or 3′UTR was cloned into the pGL3 control vector upstream or downstream of the luciferase reporter gene, respectively, and luciferase activity was measured in both non-tumorigenic and tumorigenic mouse keratinocyte cell lines. Further analysis of the influence of the 3′UTR on luciferase activity was accomplished through site-directed mutagenesis and distal deletion analysis within this region. Insertion of either the 5′UTR or 3′UTR into a luciferase vector resulted in a decrease in luciferase activity when compared to the control vector. Deletion analysis of the 3′UTR revealed a region between bases 1969 and 2141 that was inhibitory, and mutating residues within that region increased luciferase activity. These data suggest that both the 5′UTR and 3′UTR of ODC contain cis-acting regulatory elements that control intracellular ODC protein levels.
Methanol Generates Numerous Artifacts during Sample Extraction and Storage of Extracts in Metabolomics Research
Authors: Sauerschnig Claudia , Doppler Maria , Bueschl Christoph , Schuhmacher Rainer
Published: December 2017

Many metabolomics studies use mixtures of (acidified) methanol and water for sample extraction. In the present study, we investigated if the extraction with methanol can result in artifacts. To this end, wheat leaves were extracted with mixtures of native and deuterium-labeled methanol and water, with or without 0.1% formic acid. Subsequently, the extracts were analyzed immediately or after storage at 10 °C, −20 °C or −80 °C with an HPLC-HESI-QExactive HF-Orbitrap instrument. Our results showed that 88 (8%) of the >1100 detected compounds were derived from the reaction with methanol and either formed during sample extraction or short-term storage. Artifacts were found for various substance classes such as flavonoids, carotenoids, tetrapyrrols, fatty acids and other carboxylic acids that are typically investigated in metabolomics studies. 58 of 88 artifacts were common between the two tested extraction variants. Remarkably, 34 of 73 (acidified extraction solvent) and 33 of 73 (non-acidified extraction solvent) artifacts were formed de novo as none of these meth(ox)ylated metabolites were found after extraction of native leaf samples with CD3OH/H2O. Moreover, sample extracts stored at 10 °C for several days, as can typically be the case during longer measurement sequences, led to an increase in both the number and abundance of methylated artifacts. In contrast, frozen sample extracts were relatively stable during a storage period of one week. Our study shows that caution has to be exercised if methanol is used as the extraction solvent as the detected metabolites might be artifacts rather than natural constituents of the biological system. In addition, we recommend storing sample extracts in deep freezers immediately after extraction until measurement.
Potent and Selective Carboxylic Acid Inhibitors of Tumor-Associated Carbonic Anhydrases IX and XII
Authors: Cau Ylenia , Vullo Daniela , Mori Mattia , Dreassi Elena , Supuran Claudiu , Botta Maurizio
Published: December 2017

Selective inhibition of tumor-associated carbonic anhydrase (CA; EC 4.2.1.1) isoforms IX and XII is a crucial prerequisite to develop successful anticancer therapeutics. Herein, we confirmed the efficacy of the 3-nitrobenzoic acid substructure in the design of potent and selective carboxylic acid derivatives as CAs inhibitors. Compound 10 emerged as the most potent inhibitor of the tumor-associated hCA IX and XII (Ki = 16 and 82.1 nM, respectively) with a significant selectivity with respect to the wide spread hCA II. Other 3-nitrobenzoic acid derivatives showed a peculiar CA inhibition profile with a notable potency towards hCA IX.
Substituent Effects in Multivalent Halogen Bonding Complexes: A Combined Theoretical and Crystallographic Study
Authors: Bauzá Antonio , Quiñonero David , Frontera Antonio
Published: December 2017

In this manuscript, we combined ab initio calculations (RI-MP2/def2-TZVPD level of theory) and a search in the CSD (Cambridge Structural Database) to analyze the influence of aromatic substitution in charge-assisted multivalent halogen bonding complexes. We used a series of benzene substituted iodine derivatives C6H4(IF4)Y (Y = H, NH2, OCH3, F, CN, and CF3) as Lewis acids and used Cl− as electron rich interacting atoms. We have represented the Hammett’s plot and observed a good regression coefficient (interaction energies vs. Hammett’s σ parameter). Additionally, we demonstrated the direct correlation between the Hammett’s σ parameter and the value of molecular electrostatic potential measured at the I atom on the extension of the C–I bond. Furthermore, we have carried out AIM (atoms in molecules) and NBO (natural bonding orbital) analyses to further describe and characterize the interactions described herein. Finally, we have carried out a search in the CSD (Cambridge Structural Database) and found several X-ray structures where these interactions are present, thus giving reliability to the results derived from the calculations.
A Novel Magnetic Actuation Scheme to Disaggregate Nanoparticles and Enhance Passage across the Blood–Brain Barrier
Authors: Hoshiar Ali , Le Tuan-Anh , Amin Faiz , Kim Myeong , Yoon Jungwon
Published: December 2017

The blood–brain barrier (BBB) hinders drug delivery to the brain. Despite various efforts to develop preprogramed actuation schemes for magnetic drug delivery, the unmodeled aggregation phenomenon limits drug delivery performance. This paper proposes a novel scheme with an aggregation model for a feed-forward magnetic actuation design. A simulation platform for aggregated particle delivery is developed and an actuation scheme is proposed to deliver aggregated magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) using a discontinuous asymmetrical magnetic actuation. The experimental results with a Y-shaped channel indicated the success of the proposed scheme in steering and disaggregation. The delivery performance of the developed scheme was examined using a realistic, three-dimensional (3D) vessel simulation. Furthermore, the proposed scheme enhanced the transport and uptake of MNPs across the BBB in mice. The scheme presented here facilitates the passage of particles across the BBB to the brain using an electromagnetic actuation scheme.
Effects of Dietary Protein on Thyroid Axis Activity
Authors: Pałkowska-Goździk Ewelina , Lachowicz Katarzyna , Rosołowska-Huszcz Danuta
Published: December 2017

Thyroid hormones (TH) are essential for the normal development and function of every vertebrate. The hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis is regulated to maintain euthyroid status. One of the most influential environmental factors that determines HPT axis activity is nutrition. Both food availability and substrate diversity affect thyroid hormone economy. The present paper aims to summarize literature data concerning the influence of the amount and the type of protein on thyroid axis activity. This review sheds light on the contribution of a low-protein diet or insufficient intake of essential amino acids to TH abnormalities. We believe that the knowledge of these dependencies could improve the results of nutritional interventions in thyroid axis disorders and enhance the efficiency of animal breeding.
Multifaceted Defense against Listeria monocytogenes in the Gastro-Intestinal Lumen
Authors: Becattini Simone , Pamer Eric
Published: December 2017

Listeria monocytogenes is a foodborne pathogen that can cause febrile gastroenteritis in healthy subjects and systemic infections in immunocompromised individuals. Despite the high prevalence of L. monocytogenes in the environment and frequent contamination of uncooked meat and poultry products, infections with this pathogen are relatively uncommon, suggesting that protective defenses in the general population are effective. In the mammalian gastrointestinal tract, a variety of defense mechanisms prevent L. monocytogenes growth, epithelial penetration and systemic dissemination. Among these defenses, colonization resistance mediated by the gut microbiota is crucial in protection against a range of intestinal pathogens, including L. monocytogenes. Here we review defined mechanisms of defense against L. monocytogenes in the lumen of the gastro-intestinal tract, with particular emphasis on protection conferred by the autochthonous microbiota. We suggest that selected probiotic species derived from the microbiota may be developed for eventual clinical use to enhance resistance against L. monocytogenes infections.
Combination of Magnetic Lignocellulosic Particles, High-Density Polyethylene, and Carbon Black for the Construction of Composites with Tunable Functionalities
Authors: Zhang Jingfa , Wang Haowei , Wang Haigang , Xing Dan , Zhang Zhijun , Wang Qingwen
Published: December 2017

Biocomposites with unique functionalities for tailored applications are promising products for a sustainable future. In this work, a process concept of forming functional composites by combining of high-density polyethylene, carbon black, and magnetic lignocellulosic particles (wood flour) was demonstrated. The impacts of process parameters on morphologies, crystalline phase, and magnetic intensity of wood flour were identified. Magnetic, antistatic and mechanical properties of biocomposites were also evaluated. Lignocellulosic particles were encapsulated with magnetic nanoparticles, and the resulting composites exhibited tunable magnetic and antistatic properties. A noticeable feature is that magnetic nanoparticles were uniformly distributed in the matrices as a result of anchorage to lignocellulosic particles. Magnetic lignocellulosic particles and polymer resin had good compatibility. The resulting composites provided another opportunity for shielding materials, which could reduce the radiation in the living environment. These findings could provide a tunable strategy of the tailored use of lignocellulose-based composites in functional applications.
Investigation of Conical Spinneret in Generating More Dense and Compact Electrospun Nanofibers
Authors: Hamed Aya , Shehata Nader , Elosairy Mohammad
Published: December 2017

Electrospinning is an important, widely used process to generate nanofibers. However, there is still an open window for different designs of both spinneret and collector electrodes to be investigated. This paper introduces the impact of new design of conical spinneret electrode on the generated electrospun nanofibers. In this work, the conical feeder is used to generate electrospun Poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) nanofibers, and being compared to the traditional needle feeder at the same processing conditions. The jet’s mechanism is simulated using discrete bead model along with estimated calculations of both deposition area and fiber radius. The electric field distribution that is around the charged cone is analyzed. Based on both theoretical modeling and experimental measurements, a comparison of mean diameter, deposited area, and the thickness of generated nanofibers is presented related to both conical and needle electrodes. Conical feeder shows clearly compact nanofibers mat in terms of deposition area (spherical deposition of diameter ~6 cm) up to half-area of needle deposited nanofibers with high fiber density for the same time of the process. Moreover, the conical electrode is found to have privilege in terms of productivity rate and operation time. This study can be useful in generating localized nanofibers within different applications, such as biomedical tissue scaffolds, textile, and sensors.
A pH-Sensing Film from Tamarind Seed Polysaccharide with Litmus Lichen Extract as an Indicator
Authors: Liang Tieqiang , Wang Lijuan
Published: December 2017

A new pH-sensing film was developed by using tamarind seed polysaccharide (TSP) and natural dye extracted from litmus lichen (LLE). The addition of LLE from 0 to 2.5% decreased the tensile strength and elongation at break from 30.20 to 29.97 MPa and 69.73% to 60.13%, respectively, but increased the water vapor permeability from 0.399 × 10−9 to 0.434 × 10−9 g·s−1·m−1·Pa−1. The UV–Vis spectra of the litmus lichen extract (LLE) in the pH range of 4–10 showed that the color clearly changed from orange to blue. The characterization results showed that TSP interacted with LLE through hydrogen bonds. The color of the film varied from orange (pH 4.0) to blue-violet (pH 10.0). The full cream milk spoilage test indicated that the film is suitable for application in full cream milk spoilage detection. The developed pH-sensing film could be used as a promising diagnostic tool for the detection of food spoilage.
A Review of Fine-Scale Land Use and Land Cover Classification in Open-Pit Mining Areas by Remote Sensing Techniques
Authors: Chen Weitao , Li Xianju , He Haixia , Wang Lizhe
Published: December 2017

Over recent decades, fine-scale land use and land cover classification in open-pit mine areas (LCCMA) has become very important for understanding the influence of mining activities on the regional geo-environment, and for environmental impact assessment procedure. This research reviews advances in fine-scale LCCMA from the following aspects. Firstly, it analyzes and proposes classification thematic resolution for LCCMA. Secondly, remote sensing data sources, features, feature selection methods, and classification algorithms for LCCMA are summarized. Thirdly, three major factors that affect LCCMA are discussed: significant three-dimensional terrain features, strong LCCMA feature variability, and homogeneity of spectral-spatial features. Correspondingly, three key scientific issues that limit the accuracy of LCCMA are presented. Finally, several future research directions are discussed: (1) unitization of new sensors, particularly those with stereo survey ability; (2) procurement of sensitive features by new sensors and combinations of sensitive features using novel feature selection methods; (3) development of robust and self-adjusted classification algorithms, such as ensemble learning and deep learning for LCCMA; and (4) application of fine-scale mining information for regularity and management of mines.
A Modular Plug-And-Play Sensor System for Urban Air Pollution Monitoring: Design, Implementation and Evaluation
Authors: Yi Wei-Ying , Leung Kwong-Sak , Leung Yee
Published: December 2017

Urban air pollution has caused public concern globally because it seriously affects human life. Modern monitoring systems providing pollution information with high spatio-temporal resolution have been developed to identify personal exposures. However, these systems’ hardware specifications and configurations are usually fixed according to the applications. They can be inconvenient to maintain, and difficult to reconfigure and expand with respect to sensing capabilities. This paper aims at tackling these issues by adopting the proposed Modular Sensor System (MSS) architecture and Universal Sensor Interface (USI), and modular design in a sensor node. A compact MSS sensor node is implemented and evaluated. It has expandable sensor modules with plug-and-play feature and supports multiple Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs). Evaluation results show that MSS sensor nodes can easily fit in different scenarios, adapt to reconfigurations dynamically, and detect low concentration air pollution with high energy efficiency and good data accuracy. We anticipate that the efforts on system maintenance, adaptation, and evolution can be significantly reduced when deploying the system in the field.
Sustainability and Economic Performance of the Companies in the Renewable Energy Sector in Romania
Authors: Busu Mihail , Nedelcu Alexandra
Published: December 2017

In this paper, we focus on the sustainability and economic performance of the renewable energy sector of Romania. In our analysis, we have used Total Quality Management (TQM) model, which is an economic modern tool used for improving the quality of management for all companies. The aim of this study is to bring into discussion the conceptualized TQM model of Edward Deming underlying different stages of its evolution as it is described in the economic literature. Conceptual model is applied in a case study of the renewable energy sector of Romania. The quantitative research evaluates the impact of the total quality management to achieve the sustainable development, performance objectives and the competitive advantage of the companies in the renewable energy sector. Data was collected through a survey and the questionnaire was addressed to the management and employees in the renewable energy sector. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was used and the hypotheses were tested by partial least square (PLS) equations. Data was analyzed through the Smart PLS 3 software. The main contribution of this paper is to identify and evaluate the relationship among sustainable development, economic performance of the companies and TQM model indicators. The conclusions of our research are in line with the existing literature and confirm the theoretical assumptions, underlining the fact that the undertaking’s performance and sustainable development is a direct consequence of the combination among a series of factors like decisional power quality, motivated workforce as well as integrity of operational process.
Ants: Major Functional Elements in Fruit Agro-Ecosystems and Biological Control Agents
Authors: Diamé Lamine , Rey Jean-Yves , Vayssières Jean-François , Grechi Isabelle , Chailleux Anaïs , Diarra Karamoko
Published: December 2017

Ants are a very diverse taxonomic group. They display remarkable social organization that has enabled them to be ubiquitous throughout the world. They make up approximately 10% of the world’s animal biomass. Ants provide ecosystem services in agrosystems by playing a major role in plant pollination, soil bioturbation, bioindication, and the regulation of crop-damaging insects. Over recent decades, there have been numerous studies in ant ecology and the focus on tree cropping systems has given added importance to ant ecology knowledge. The only missing point in this knowledge is the reasons underlying difference between the positive and negative effects of ants in tree cropping systems. This review article provides an overview of knowledge of the roles played by ants in orchards as functional elements, and on the potential of Oecophylla weaver ants as biological control agents. It also shows the potential and relevance of using ants as an agro-ecological diagnosis tool in orchards. Lastly, it demonstrates the potential elements which may determine the divergent negative and positive of their effects on cropping systems.
Understanding the Burial and Migration Characteristics of Deep Geothermal Water Using Hydrogen, Oxygen, and Inorganic Carbon Isotopes
Authors: Wang Xinyi , Qiao Weifang , Chen Jing , Liu Xiaoman , Yang Fang
Published: December 2017

Geothermal water samples taken from deep aquifers within the city of Kaifeng at depths between 800 and 1650 m were analyzed for conventional water chemical compositions and stable isotopes. These results were then combined with the deuterium excess parameter (d value), and the contribution ratios of different carbon sources were calculated along with distributional characteristics and data on the migration and transformation of geothermal water. These results included the conventional water chemical group, hydrogen, and oxygen isotopes (δD-δ18O), dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) and associated isotopes (δ13CDIC). The results of this study show that geothermal water in the city of Kaifeng is weakly alkaline, water chemistry mostly comprises a HCO3-Na type, and the range of variation of δD is between −76.12‰ and −70.48‰, (average: −74.25‰), while the range of variation of δ18O is between −11.08‰ and −9.41‰ (average: −10.15‰). Data show that values of d vary between 1.3‰ and 13.3‰ (average: 6.91‰), while DIC content is between 91.523 and 156.969 mg/L (average: 127.158 mg/L). The recorded range of δ13CDIC was between −10.160‰ and −6.386‰ (average: −9.019‰). The results presented in this study show that as depth increases, so do δD and δ18O, while d values decrease and DIC content and δ13CDIC gradually increase. Thus, δD, δ18O, d values, DIC, and δ13CDIC can all be used as proxies for the burial characteristics of geothermal water. Because data show that the changes in d values and DIC content are larger along the direction of geothermal water flow, so these proxies can be used to indicate migration. This study also shows demonstrates that the main source of DIC in geothermal water is CO2thathas a biological origin in soils, as well as the dissolution of carbonate minerals in surrounding rocks. Thus, as depth increases, the contribution of soil biogenic carbon sources to DIC decreases while the influence of carbonate dissolution on DIC increases.
The Effects of Nonlinear Frequency Compression and Digital Noise Reduction on Word Recognition and Satisfaction Ratings in Noise in Adult Hearing Aid Users
Authors: Plyler Patrick N. , Tardy Brittney , Hedrick Mark
Published: December 2017

Background:Nonlinear frequency compression (NLFC) and digital noise reduction (DNR) are hearing aid features often used simultaneously in the adult population with hearing loss. Although each feature has been studied extensively in isolation, the effects of using them in combination
are unclear.Purpose:The effects of NLFC and DNR in noise on word recognition and satisfaction ratings in noise in adult hearing aid users were evaluated.Research Design:A repeated measures design was used.Study Sample:Two females and 13 males between the ages of 55 and
83 yr who were experienced hearing aid users participated. Thirteen were experienced with NLFC and all were experienced with DNR. Each participant was fit with Phonak Bolero Q90-P hearing instruments using their specific audiometric data and the Desired Sensation Level v5.0 (adult) fitting
strategy. Fittings were verified with probe microphone measurements using speech at 65-dB sound pressure level (SPL). NLFC verification was performed using the Protocol for the Provision of Amplification, Version 2014.01.Data Collection and Analysis:All testing was conducted in a double-walled
sound booth. Four hearing aid conditions were used for all testing: Baseline (NLFC off, DNR off), NLFC only, DNR only, and Combination (NLFC on, DNR on). A modified version of the Pascoe’s High-Frequency Word List was presented at 65-dB SPL with speech spectrum noise at 6-dB signal-to-noise
ratio (SNR) and 1-dB SNR for each hearing aid condition. Listener satisfaction ratings were obtained after each listening condition in terms of word comfort, word clarity, and average satisfaction. Two-way repeated measures analyses of variance were conducted to assess listener performance.
Pairwise comparisons were then completed for significant main effects.Results:Word recognition results indicated a significant SNR effect only (6 dB SNR > 1 dB SNR). Satisfaction ratings results indicated a significant SNR and hearing aid condition effect for clarity, comfort, and
average satisfaction. Clarity ratings were significantly higher for DNR and Combination than NLFC. Comfort ratings were significantly higher for DNR than NLFC. Average satisfaction was significantly higher for DNR and Combination than for NLFC. Also, average ratings were significantly higher
for Combination than Baseline.Conclusions:Activating NLFC or DNR in isolation or in combination did not significantly impact word recognition in noise. Activating NLFC in isolation reduced satisfaction ratings relative to the DNR or Combination conditions. The isolated use of DNR significantly
improved all satisfaction ratings when compared with the isolated use of NLFC. These findings suggest NLFC should not be used in isolation and should be coupled with DNR for best results. Future research should include a field trial as this was a limitation of the study.