bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Line Matching Based on Viewpoint-Invariance for Stereo Wide-Baseline Aerial Images
Authors: Wang Qiang , Zhao Haimeng , Zhang Zhenxin , Cui Ximin , Ullah Sana , Sun Shanlin , Liu Fan
Published: June 2018

Line matching is the foundation of three-dimensional (3D) outline reconstruction for city buildings in aerial photogrammetry. Many existing studies have good line matching effects when dealing with aerial images with short baselines and small viewing angles. However, when faced with wide-baseline and large viewing-angle images, the matching effect drops sharply or even fails altogether. This paper deals with an efficient and simple method to achieve better line matching performance by a pair of wide-baseline aerial images, which make use of viewpoint-in variance to conduct line matching in rectified image spaces. Firstly, the perspective transformation relationship between the image plane and the geoid plane can be established from a Positioning and Orientation System (POS). Then, according to perspective projection matrices, two original images are separately rectified to conformal images, whose perspective deformation of large viewing-angle can be eliminated. Finally, the rectified images are used to conduct line matching, and the matched line segments obtained are back-projected to the original images. Four pairs of urban oblique aerial images are used to demonstrate the validity and efficiency of this method. Compared with line matching on original images, the number and the correctness of the matched line segments are greatly improved. Moreover, there is no loss of time efficiency. The proposed method can also be applied to general UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) aerial photogrammetry and introduced into matching for other geometric features, such as points, circles, curves, etc.
Examining Self-Disclosure on Social Networking Sites: A Flow Theory and Privacy Perspective
Authors: Ampong George Oppong Appiagyei , Mensah Aseda , Adu Adolph Sedem Yaw , Addae John Agyekum , Omoregie Osaretin Kayode , Ofori Kwame Simpe
Published: June 2018

Social media and other web 2.0 tools have provided users with the platform to interact with and also disclose personal information to not only their friends and acquaintances but also relative strangers with unprecedented ease. This has enhanced the ability of people to share more about themselves, their families, and their friends through a variety of media including text, photo, and video, thus developing and sustaining social and business relationships. The purpose of the paper is to identify the factors that predict self-disclosure on social networking sites from the perspective of privacy and flow. Data was collected from 452 students in three leading universities in Ghana and analyzed with Partial Least Square-Structural Equation Modeling. Results from the study revealed that privacy risk was the most significant predictor. We also found privacy awareness, privacy concerns, and privacy invasion experience to be significant predictors of self-disclosure. Interaction and perceived control were found to have significant effect on self-disclosure. In all, the model accounted for 54.6 percent of the variance in self-disclosure. The implications and limitations of the current study are discussed, and directions for future research proposed.
Regulation of Constitutive Interferon-Stimulated Genes (Isgs) in Tumor Cells Contributes to Enhanced Antitumor Response of Newcastle Disease Virus-Infected Tumor Vaccines
Authors: Takamura-Ishii Mai , Nakaya Takaaki , Hagiwara Katsuro
Published: June 2018

Newcastle disease virus (NDV) is an oncolytic virus. As immunogenicity of tumor cells is enhanced by NDV infection, recombinant NDV-infected tumor vaccines (rNDV-TV) are effective methods for inducing specific immunity. However, several tumor cells resist NDV infection, and tumor specific immunity is not sufficiently induced by rNDV-TV. Therefore, we clarified the factor contributing to the suppression of NDV infection and attempted to improve rNDV-TV. Initially we investigated the correlation between the NDV infection rate and interferon-related gene expression in six murine tumor cell lines. A significant negative correlation was observed between the constitutive gene expression of Interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs) and NDV infectivity. The NDV infection rate was examined in each tumor cell treated with the Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor ruxolitinib (Rux). Furthermore, we evaluated the Th1 response induction by Rux-treated rNDV-TV (rNDV-TV-Rux). In Rux-treated tumor cells, Oasl2 gene expression was significantly decreased and viral infectivity was increased. In immunized mice, the number of CD8+ cells, and those expressing the IFN-γ gene, were significantly increased as compared with Rux-untreated rNDV-TV. The infectivity of the virus was dependent on the degree of ISGs expression in tumor cells. To remedy for this problem, rNDV-TV-Rux was expected to have a Th1 immune response.
Synergistic Effect of Cu2O and Urea as Modifiers of TiO2 for Enhanced Visible Light Activity
Authors: Janczarek Marcin , Wang Kunlei , Kowalska Ewa
Published: June 2018

Low cost compounds, i.e., Cu2O and urea, were used as TiO2 modifiers to introduce visible light activity. Simple and cheap methods were applied to synthesize an efficient and stable nanocomposite photocatalytic material. First, the core-shell structure TiO2–polytriazine derivatives were prepared. Thereafter, Cu2O was added as the second semiconductor to form a dual heterojunction system. Enhanced visible light activity was found for the above-mentioned nanocomposite, confirming a synergistic effect of Cu2O and urea (via polytriazine derivatives on titania surface). Two possible mechanisms of visible light activity of the considered material were proposed regarding the type II heterojunction and Z-scheme through the essential improvement of the charge separation effect.
Nanopipettes as Monitoring Probes for the Single Living Cell: State of the Art and Future Directions in Molecular Biology
Authors: Bulbul Gonca , Chaves Gepoliano , Olivier Joseph , Ozel Rifat Emrah , Pourmand Nader
Published: June 2018

Examining the behavior of a single cell within its natural environment is valuable for understanding both the biological processes that control the function of cells and how injury or disease lead to pathological change of their function. Single-cell analysis can reveal information regarding the causes of genetic changes, and it can contribute to studies on the molecular basis of cell transformation and proliferation. By contrast, whole tissue biopsies can only yield information on a statistical average of several processes occurring in a population of different cells. Electrowetting within a nanopipette provides a nanobiopsy platform for the extraction of cellular material from single living cells. Additionally, functionalized nanopipette sensing probes can differentiate analytes based on their size, shape or charge density, making the technology uniquely suited to sensing changes in single-cell dynamics. In this review, we highlight the potential of nanopipette technology as a non-destructive analytical tool to monitor single living cells, with particular attention to integration into applications in molecular biology.
Analysing the Prospects of Perovskite Solar Cells within the Purview of Recent Scientific Advancements
Authors: Bhat Aakash , Dhamaniya Bhanu Pratap , Chhillar Priyanka , Korukonda Tulja Bhavani , Rawat Gaurav , Pathak Sandeep K.
Published: June 2018

For any given technology to be successful, its ability to compete with the other existing technologies is the key. Over the last five years, perovskite solar cells have entered the research spectrum with tremendous market prospects. These cells provide easy and low cost processability and are an efficient alternative to the existing solar cell technologies in the market. In this review article, we first go over the innovation and the scientific findings that have been going on in the field of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) and then present a short case study of perovskite solar cells based on their energy payback time. Our review aims to be comprehensive, considering the cost, the efficiency, and the stability of the PSCs. Later, we suggest areas for improvement in the field, and how the future might be shaped.
Inhaled Xenon Washout as a Biomarker of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Hane Francis T. , Li Tao , Plata Jennifer-Anne , Hassan Ayman , Granberg Karl , Albert Mitchell S.
Published: June 2018

Biomarkers have the potential to aid in the study of Alzheimer’s disease (AD); unfortunately, AD biomarker values often have a high degree of overlap between healthy and AD individuals. This study investigates the potential utility of a series of novel AD biomarkers, the sixty second 129Xe retention time, and the xenon washout parameter, based on the washout of hyperpolarized 129Xe from the brain of AD participants following inhalation. The xenon washout parameter is influenced by cerebral perfusion, T1 relaxation of xenon, and the xenon partition coefficient, all factors influenced by AD. Participants with AD (n = 4) and healthy volunteers (n = 4) were imaged using hyperpolarized 129Xe magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) to determine the amount of retained xenon in the brain. At 60 s after the breath hold, AD patients retained significantly higher amounts of 129Xe compared to healthy controls. Data was fit to a pharmacokinetic model and the xenon washout parameter was extracted. Xenon washout in white and grey matter occurs at a slower rate in Alzheimer’s participants (129Xe half-life time of 42 s and 43 s, respectively) relative to controls (20 s and 16 s, respectively). Following larger scale clinical trials for validation, the xenon washout parameter has the potential to become a useful biomarker for the support of AD diagnosis.
Optimal Flow Distribution of Military Supply Transportation Based on Network Analysis and Entropy Measurement
Authors: Zhou Wei , Chen Jin , Ding Bingqing
Published: June 2018

One important element of military supply transportation is concealment, especially during war preparations and warfare periods. By introducing entropy to calculate the transportation concealment degree, we investigate the issue about concealed military supply transportation on the whole road network and propose an optimal flow distribution model. This model’s objective function is to maximize the concealment of military supply transportation. After analyzing the road network, classifying different nodes, summarizing the constraint conditions based on the properties and assumptions in the transportation process, and combining the general parameter limits, the optimal flow distribution model is further transformed into a calculable non-linear programming model. Thus, based on this non-linear programming model, we can obtain the optimal distribution scheme of military supply transportation from the perspectives of network analysis and concealment measurement. Lastly, an example of military supply transportation in Jiangsu province, China is illustrated to prove the feasibility of the proposed model. The managerial implication is that by utilizing the proposed flow distribution model, military supplies can be efficiently transported to the required destinations based on maximizing the concealment degree. Not only this model can be utilized in the real military supply transportation, it can be also applied in other transportation fields which require time efficiency and concealment.
Screening Scheme Evaluation of the Assembly Process Based on the Stress-Strength Model and Defect Stream Analysis
Authors: Huang Yubing , Dai Wei , Liu Lianxi , Zhao Yu
Published: June 2018

During the assembly process, there are inevitable variations and noise factors in the material properties, process parameters and screening scheme, which may affect the quality of the product. Using the stress-strength model, an evaluated screening scheme method, by analyzing the variation of the defect density in the assembly process, is proposed and discussed. The influence of screening stress on product defects is considered to determine the screening scheme. We performed the defect stream analysis by calculating the recursive relations of residual defect density under multi-stress conditions. We find that the probability density function, which shows the defect changing process from latent to dominant relative to the time process, agrees very well with the historical data. We also calculate the risk as the entropy of the assembly task. Finally, we verify our method by analyzing the assembly process of a certain product.
Processing Image to Geographical Information Systems (PI2GIS)—A Learning Tool for QGIS
Authors: Correia Rui , Duarte Lia , Teodoro Ana Cláudia , Monteiro António
Published: June 2018

Education, together with science and technology, is the main driver of the progress and transformations of a country. The use of new technologies of learning can be applied to the classroom. Computer learning supports meaningful and long-term learning. Therefore, in the era of digital society and environmental issues, a relevant role is provided by open source software and free data that promote universality of knowledge. Earth observation (EO) data and remote sensing technologies are increasingly used to address the sustainable development goals. An important step for a full exploitation of this technology is to guarantee open software supporting a more universal use. The development of image processing plugins, which are able to be incorporated in Geographical Information System (GIS) software, is one of the strategies used on that front. The necessity of an intuitive and simple application, which allows the students to learn remote sensing, leads us to develop a GIS open source tool, which is integrated in an open source GIS software (QGIS), in order to automatically process and classify remote sensing images from a set of satellite input data. The application was tested in Vila Nova de Gaia municipality (Porto, Portugal) and Aveiro district (Portugal) considering Landsat 8 Operational Land Imager (OLI) data.
Prediction of the Nonlinearity by Segmentation and Matching Precision of a Hybrid R-I Digital-to-Analog Converter
Authors: Huang Qinjin , Yu Fengqi
Published: June 2018

The data converters’ nonlinearity, which is mainly caused by random mismatch, reflects the performance deviation between the actual realization and an ideal situation. The interpretation of the numerical relationship between the nonlinearity and matching precision for a hybrid digital-to-analog converter (DAC) consisting of a k-bit resistor-string and an m-bit current-steering array (R-I DAC) is a challenging task. In this article, we propose a method to predict the nonlinearity by the segmentation and matching-precision of an R-I DAC. First, we propose a mathematical model that focuses on the output and mismatches of an R-I DAC. The model shows that nonlinearity gets worse when the segmentation ratio (k/m) increases. Second, we derive theoretical expressions for the static nonlinearity and matching precision. It is shown that the resolution number of resistor (k) has more influence on nonlinearity than the resolution number of current steering (m). Designers can quickly determine the segmentation strategy and matching precision from the derived equations. Finally, we achieve a nonlinearity that is smaller than half the least significant bit (LSB) when the matching resolution in the bits of the resistors and current sources are k + 4 and m + 2k + 2, respectively. For the verification of the study proposed, three test groups of prototypes with different matching precisions are fabricated and measured. The measured static and dynamic performance of the designed DACs support our proposal expressions.
A Survey on Equivalence Modeling for Large-Scale Photovoltaic Power Plants
Authors: Han Pingping , Lin Zihao , Wang Lei , Fan Guijun , Zhang Xiaoan
Published: June 2018

Due to the huge data of large-scale photovoltaic (PV) power plants, the establishment of its equivalent model is more practical than a detailed model. In connection with the current research status, this paper reviews the steady-state equivalent model and transient equivalent model of PV power plants. The steady-state equivalent model is used for power flow calculation and static stability analysis. Transient equivalent models contain the single-machine equivalent model and the multi-machine equivalent models, which are used for the simulation analysis of large disturbances. The calculation of equivalent parameters and the equivalence of power collection system are briefly introduced. The conclusion and problems to be solved are put forward at the end. The establishment of the equivalent model simplifies the detailed model, which is convenient for the planning and simulation analysis of the PV power plant, and can also accurately characterize the operating characteristics of the PV power plant, which is of great significance.
Biogas from Fresh Spring and Summer Grass: Effect of the Harvesting Period
Authors: Chiumenti Alessandro , Boscaro Davide , Da Borso Francesco , Sartori Luigi , Pezzuolo Andrea
Published: June 2018

Yard trimmings, landscape management and agricultural practices determine the collection of biomass currently destined mainly to the production of a valuable soil amendant by composting. While composting requires energy, especially for the turning/aeration phases and for air treatment (i.e., biofilters in the case of enclosed systems), anaerobic digestion represents an energy positive process that results in production of biogas and digestate, which can be used as fuel and fertilizer, respectively. The focus of the present research was the evaluation of biogas and methane potential of grass collected in two different periods of the year (spring and summer) from riverbanks located in Northern Italy. The conversion to biogas of feedstocks is greatly influenced by the composition of the organic matter, content of cellulose, and lignin in particular. The production of biomass per hectare and the consequent biogas production were also evaluated. The experimental tests were performed on both samples of fresh grass in laboratory scale batch reactors, characterized by 4.0 L of volume and operated in mesophilic conditions (38 °C), for 40 days per cycle. The anaerobic digestion process was performed on a mixture of inoculum and grass, characterized by inoculum:substrate VS (volatile solids) ratio equal to 2. The inoculum was represented by digestate from a full-scale anaerobic digestion plant fed with dairy cow manure. The results in terms of biogas production, biogas quality (CH4, CO2, H2S), and emissions from digestates (NH3, CO2 and CH4) are presented in the paper. Total solids (TS), volatile solids (VS), pH, volatile fatty acids (VFA), alkalinity, acidity vs. alkalinity ratio, fibers (cellulose, lignin), and total Kjieldahl nitrogen (TKN) were determined both on input and output of the process. The biogas yield obtained from grass resulted higher than expected, quite similar to the yield obtained from energy crops, with Biomethane Potential (BMP) of 340.2 NL·kg−1VS and of 307.7 NL·kg−1VS, respectively, for spring and summer grass. Biogas quality was slightly lower for summer grass, perhaps in relation to the higher content of fibers (lignin). Alternatively, the yield of grass per surface was significantly different between spring and summer with the highest production in the summer. In fact, the results revealed a methane yield of 263 Nm3·ha−1 and of 1181 Nm3·ha−1, respectively for spring and summer grass.
Passivity-Based Robust Output Voltage Tracking Control of DC/DC Boost Converter for Wind Power Systems
Authors: Kim Seok-Kyoon
Published: June 2018

This paper exhibits a passivity-based robust output voltage controller for DC/DC boost converters for wind power system applications. The proposed technique has two features. The first one is to introduce a nonlinear disturbance observer for estimating the disturbances arising from the load and parameter variations. The second one is to derive a proportional-type passivity-based output voltage tracking controller incorporating the disturbance observer output, which simplifies the control algorithm by removing the use of tracking error integrators and an anti-windup algorithm. These two features constitute the useful closed-loop properties called the performance recovery and offset-free properties. Numerical simulation results confirm the efficacy of the proposed scheme, where a wind power system including the proposed controller is emulated using the PowerSIM software.
Cost-Optimal Analysis for Nearly Zero Energy Buildings Design and Optimization: A Critical Review
Authors: Ferrara Maria , Monetti Valentina , Fabrizio Enrico
Published: June 2018

Since the introduction of the recast of the EPBD European Directive 2010/31/EU, many studies on the cost-effective feasibility of nearly zero-energy buildings (NZEBs) were carried out either by academic research bodies and by national bodies. In particular, the introduction of the cost-optimal methodology has given a strong impulse to research in this field. This paper presents a comprehensive and significant review on scientific works based on the application of cost-optimal analysis applications in Europe since the EPBD recast entered into force, pointing out the differences in the analyzed studies and comparing their outcomes before the new recast of EPBD enters into force in 2018. The analysis is conducted with special regard to the methods used for the energy performance assessment, the global cost calculation, and for the selection of the energy efficiency measures leading to design optimization. A critical discussion about the assumptions on which the studies are based and the resulting gaps between the resulting cost-optimal performance and the zero energy target is provided together with a summary of the resulting cost-optimal set of technologies to be used for cost-optimal NZEB design in different contexts. It is shown that the cost-optimal approach results as an effective method for delineating the future of NZEB design throughout Europe while emerging criticalities and open research issues are presented.
The Mechanism and Diagnosis of Insulation Deterioration Caused by Moisture Ingress into Oil-Impregnated Paper Bushing
Authors: Qi Bo , Dai Quanmin , Li Chengrong , Zeng Zipeng , Fu Mingli , Zhuo Ran
Published: June 2018

The healthy state of insulation in oil-impregnated bushings is traditionally evaluated by tanδ and capacitance at power frequency and mostly at 10 kV in the test standard. However, there has frequently been insulation accidents induced by moisture ingress (MI) for bushings that have passed the standard. The mechanism and new diagnostic features for MI into bushings were not distinct enough and an accurate test method is urgently needed research. To address this technical gap, a bushing model with a transparent sheath was designed and an ultrasonic humidifier device was adopted to simulate the environment of MI in bushings and recorded by digital camera. The parameters of dielectric dissipation factor, capacitance, partial discharge (PD), frequency domain response, and moisture content in oil were measured at room temperature with time. The results presented that both the increment dissipation factor at low frequency of 0.001 Hz and the increment dissipation factor of 1.2 Um could be used for detecting the earlier insulation defect of oil-impregnated paper (OIP) bushings. The phase resolved partial discharge (PRPD) can serve as the diagnostic basis of the severe state (S3) of insulation deterioration caused by MI into bushings around the phases of 0–117°, 151–303°, and 325–360°. The research findings would provide a useful reference for the condition diagnosis and maintenance of OIP bushings. Especially, the increment detection of Frequency Domain Spectroscopy (FDS) at the frequency of 1 mHz and 10 kHz was recommended firstly for the operative bushings in real sites.
Numerical Investigation of Small-Scale Adsorption Cooling System Performance Employing Activated Carbon-Ethanol Pair
Authors: Khanam Marzia , Jribi Skander , Miyazaki Takahiko , Saha Bidyut Baran , Koyama Shigeru
Published: June 2018

Adsorber heat exchanger design has great importance in increasing the performance of the adsorption-based cooling system. In this study, a transient two-dimensional axisymmetric Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model has been developed for the performance investigation of finned tube type adsorber using activated carbon and ethanol as the working pair. The operating conditions of the cooling system were 15, 20 and 80 for evaporation, cooling and heating temperatures, respectively. The simulated temperature profiles for different adsorbent thicknesses were validated with those from experimental data measured in our laboratory. Moreover, the error in mass and energy balance were 3% and 7.88%, respectively. Besides, the performance investigation has been performed for cycle time ranging from 600 s to 1400 s. The optimum cycle time was 800 s and the corresponding evaluated specific cooling power (SCP) and coefficient of performance (COP) were found to be 488 W/kg and 0.61, respectively. The developed CFD model will be used for fin height and fin pitch optimization and can be extended to other adsorbent-adsorbate based adsorption cooling system.
An Optimization Method for Local Consumption of Photovoltaic Power in a Facility Agriculture Micro Energy Network
Authors: Wang Yuzhu , Niu Huanna , Yang Lu , Wang Weizhou , Liu Fuchao
Published: June 2018

In order to solve the problem of optimal dispatching of photovoltaic power for local consumption to the greatest degree in a photovoltaic greenhouse, this paper proposes a multiform energy optimal dispatching model and a solution algorithm. First, an input-output power model is established for energy storages which are reservoir, biogas digester, and block wall with phase-change thermal storage. Based on it, multiform energy storages play a bridging role of energy transfer in optimal energy dispatching. Subsequently, an optimal energy dispatching model is proposed with the objective of minimizing the sum of the squares of the difference between the loads and the photovoltaic generation in dispatching periods. Control variables are working state quantities of the time-shiftable loads and input-output state quantities of energy storages in dispatching periods. Finally, a genetic algorithm with matrix binary coding is used to solve the energy optimal dispatching model. Simulation results of a practical photovoltaic greenhouse facility agricultural micro energy network system in three typical weather conditions showed that the method could fully utilize the energy transfer function of the multiform energy storage and the time-shiftable characteristics of the agricultural load to achieve the maximum effect of increasing the local consumption of the photovoltaic power.
Community Forestry and the Sustainable Development Goals: A Two Way Street
Authors: De Jong Wil , Pokorny Benno , Katila Pia , Galloway Glenn , Pacheco Pablo
Published: June 2018

This paper analyses the contributions of community and smallholder forestry (CSF) to achieving the sustainable development goals (SDGs). A CSF-SDG positive feedback model is proposed; a model that holds that successful CSF positively contributes to 13 SDGs and 31 SDG targets. Recent CSF meta-studies have scrutinized factors leading to CSF success and found some 10 factors and conditions that contribute to that objective. If efforts towards reaching the SDGs support or enhance these factors leading to the greater success of CSF, this in turn would boost CSF contributions to the SDGs and their targets. As a result, CSF or active support for CSF, focusing on the 10 CSF factors that favor success, can be linked to 48 unique SDG targets. The analysis suggests that there is a significant opportunity to explore win-win options for efforts to support CSF and contribute to SDGs, but also for efforts to pursue the SDGs and targets that favor CSF, which will in turn boost the contribution of CSF to the SDGs. The case of CSF and its feedback links with the SDGs suggests that it may be relevant to identify interactions between the SDGs and other socio-ecological realities and related research.
Development of Microplatforms to Mimic the In Vivo Architecture of CNS and PNS Physiology and Their Diseases
Authors: Saliba John , Daou Arij , Damiati Samar , Saliba Jessica , El-Sabban Marwan , Mhanna Rami
Published: June 2018

Understanding the mechanisms that govern nervous tissues function remains a challenge. In vitro two-dimensional (2D) cell culture systems provide a simplistic platform to evaluate systematic investigations but often result in unreliable responses that cannot be translated to pathophysiological settings. Recently, microplatforms have emerged to provide a better approximation of the in vivo scenario with better control over the microenvironment, stimuli and structure. Advances in biomaterials enable the construction of three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds, which combined with microfabrication, allow enhanced biomimicry through precise control of the architecture, cell positioning, fluid flows and electrochemical stimuli. This manuscript reviews, compares and contrasts advances in nervous tissues-on-a-chip models and their applications in neural physiology and disease. Microplatforms used for neuro-glia interactions, neuromuscular junctions (NMJs), blood-brain barrier (BBB) and studies on brain cancer, metastasis and neurodegenerative diseases are addressed. Finally, we highlight challenges that can be addressed with interdisciplinary efforts to achieve a higher degree of biomimicry. Nervous tissue microplatforms provide a powerful tool that is destined to provide a better understanding of neural health and disease.
Psychometric Evaluation of the Team Member Perspectives of Person-Centered Care (TM-PCC) Survey for Long-Term Care Homes
Authors: Boscart Veronique M. , Davey Meaghan , Ploeg Jenny , Heckman George , Dupuis Sherry , Sheiban Linda , Luh Kim Jessica , Brown Paul , Sidani Souraya
Published: June 2018

Person-centered care (PCC) is fundamental for providing high-quality care in long-term care homes. This study aimed to evaluate the psychometric properties of an 11-item Team Member Perspectives of Person-Centered Care (TM-PCC) survey, adapted from White and colleagues (2008). In a cross-sectional study, 461 staff from four long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada, completed the TM-PCC. Construct validity and internal consistency of the TM-PCC were examined with a principal component analysis and Cronbach’s alpha coefficient. Findings revealed a three-component structure with factor 1, Supporting Social Relationships; factor 2, Familiarity with Residents’ Preferences; and factor 3, Meaningful Resident–Staff Relationships. The TM-PCC, as compared to the original survey, presented with less components (i.e., did not address Resident Autonomy, Personhood, Comfort, Work with Residents, Personal Environment, and Management Structure), yet included one new component (Meaningful Resident–Staff Relationships). The TM-PCC has a similar internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha coefficient 0.82 vs. White et al. 0.74–0.91). The TM-PCC can be used to assess PCC from the staff’s perspective in long-term care homes.
Assessment of Mercury Concentration in Turtles (Podocnemis unifilis) in the Xingu River Basin, Brazil
Authors: Pignati Marina Teófilo , Pezzuti Juarez Carlos Brito , Souza Larissa Costa de , Lima Marcelo de Oliveira , Pignati Wanderlei Antonio , Mendes Rosivaldo de Alcântara
Published: June 2018

Many studies on mercury contamination in aquatic biota deal with the effect of consuming metal-contaminated organisms on human health. In this study, we examined the factors that cause mercury contamination in Podocnemis unifilis in the Xingu River Basin of Mato Grosso and Pará States, Brazil. We quantified by atomic absorption spectroscopy with cold vapor the total mercury (THg) content in the liver and muscle samples of 50 Podocnemis unifilis specimens collected from the basin. The liver and muscle samples contained 134.20 ± 119.30 ng g−1 THg and 24.86 ± 26.36 ng g−1 THg, respectively. Each chelonian or meal has, on average, 5.34× more Hg than the highest level established as acceptable. From the results it can be inferred that, given the weekly consumption of chelonians, the riverine and indigenous communities in the Xingu River Basin are at risk of chronic consumption of Hg in amounts beyond the acceptable limit. The potential high risk to the health of this population is evident; however, the risk classification needs to be further studied.
Perceptions and Reasons Regarding E-Cigarette Use among Users and Non-Users: A Narrative Literature Review
Authors: Romijnders Kim A. G. J. , Van Osch Liesbeth , De Vries Hein , Talhout Reinskje
Published: June 2018

This paper aims to provide an in-depth understanding of the attractiveness of e-cigarettes for several different groups. For this purpose, perceptions of and reasons for e-cigarette use were systematically reviewed as reported by e-cigarette users, cigarette smokers, dual users, and non-users, among both adults and youth. MEDLINE® and Scopus were used to search for relevant articles, and references of included studies were also investigated. Two reviewers screened all titles and abstracts independently, blinded to authors and journal titles (Cohen’s Kappa = 0.83), resulting in 72 eligible articles. Risk perceptions, perceived benefits, and reasons for e-cigarette use were categorized in themes and sub-themes. Risk perceptions included harmfulness in general, and specific health risks. Perceived benefits included improved taste and smell, and safety for bystanders. Reasons for use included (health) benefits, curiosity, smoking cessation, and friends using e-cigarettes. The findings highlight that there is a variety of perceptions and reasons mentioned by adult and youth e-cigarette users, cigarette smokers, dual users, and non-users. As such, this overview provides valuable information for scientists, public health professionals, behavior change experts, and regulators to improve future research, risk communication, and possibilities to effectively regulate e-cigarettes.
Spondylodiscitis in Paediatric Patients: The Importance of Early Diagnosis and Prolonged Therapy
Authors: Bianchini Sonia , Esposito Andrea , Principi Nicola , Esposito Susanna
Published: June 2018

Background: Spondylodiscitis (SD), the concurrent infection of a vertebral disc and the adjacent vertebral bodies, is a very severe disease that can lead to death or cause spinal deformities, segmental instabilities, and chronic pain, which significantly reduces the quality of life for affected patients. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential in order to reduce the risk of negative outcomes. The two cases of SD that are described in this paper might be useful for informing paediatric approaches to children with SD. Case presentation: The cases that are reported here are about two children of approximately 2 and 3 years of age, in whom SD involving the L4–L5 and L3–L4 interspaces, had a subacute or chronic course. The clinical manifestations were mild, fever was absent, and the lumbar pain lasted for a long time and was the predominant symptom. Moreover, laboratory tests were in the normal range or only slightly abnormal, as were the standard radiographs of the lumbar spine. In both of the cases, SD confirmation was obtained through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and MRI was also used to evaluate the response to therapy. In both of our patients, tuberculosis was excluded based on tuberculin skin testing and the Quantiferon TBgold tests being negative. This finding led to the prescription of a broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy, including a drug that was potentially effective against Staphylococcus aureus (Sa). The strict monitoring of the spinal damage with MRI avoided the need for aspirations or biopsies; invasive procedures that are ethically acceptable in pediatric age only in a few selected cases, when the empirical antibiotic is associated with a worsening of spinal damage; or the vertebral osteomyelitis lesion mimics a tumoral lesion. Conclusions: Although rare, SD represents an important disease in children. In toddlers and preschool children, it can have a subacute or chronic course, in which only back pain, irritability, and walking difficulties are the signs and symptoms of the disease. MRI remains the best method for confirming the diagnosis and for evaluating therapy efficacy. Antibiotics are the drugs of choice. Although the duration has not been established, antibiotics should be administered for several weeks.
Proposed Molecular and miRNA Classification of Gastric Cancer
Authors: Alessandrini Lara , Manchi Melissa , De Re Valli , Dolcetti Riccardo , Canzonieri Vincenzo
Published: June 2018

Gastric cancer (GC) is a common malignant neoplasm worldwide and one of the main cause of cancer-related deaths. Despite some advances in therapies, long-term survival of patients with advanced disease remains poor. Different types of classification have been used to stratify patients with GC for shaping prognosis and treatment planning. Based on new knowledge of molecular pathways associated with different aspect of GC, new pathogenetic classifications for GC have been and continue to be proposed. These novel classifications create a new paradigm in the definition of cancer biology and allow the identification of relevant GC genomic subsets by using different techniques such as genomic screenings, functional studies and molecular or epigenetic characterization. An improved prognostic classification for GC is essential for the development of a proper therapy for a proper patient population. The aim of this review is to discuss the state-of-the-art on combining histological and molecular classifications of GC to give an overview of the emerging therapeutic possibilities connected to the latest discoveries regarding GC.
Balneotherapy, Immune System, and Stress Response: A Hormetic Strategy?
Authors: Gálvez Isabel , Torres-Piles Silvia , Ortega-Rincón Eduardo
Published: June 2018

Balneotherapy is a clinically effective complementary approach in the treatment of low-grade inflammation- and stress-related pathologies. The biological mechanisms by which immersion in mineral-medicinal water and the application of mud alleviate symptoms of several pathologies are still not completely understood, but it is known that neuroendocrine and immunological responses—including both humoral and cell-mediated immunity—to balneotherapy are involved in these mechanisms of effectiveness; leading to anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antioxidant, chondroprotective, and anabolic effects together with neuroendocrine-immune regulation in different conditions. Hormesis can play a critical role in all these biological effects and mechanisms of effectiveness. The hormetic effects of balneotherapy can be related to non-specific factors such as heat—which induces the heat shock response, and therefore the synthesis and release of heat shock proteins—and also to specific biochemical components such as hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in sulfurous water and radon in radioactive water. Results from several investigations suggest that the beneficial effects of balneotherapy and hydrotherapy are consistent with the concept of hormesis, and thus support a role for hormesis in hydrothermal treatments.
Berberine Protects against NEFA-Induced Impairment of Mitochondrial Respiratory Chain Function and Insulin Signaling in Bovine Hepatocytes
Authors: Shi Zhen , Li Xiao-Bing , Peng Zhi-Cheng , Fu Shou-Peng , Zhao Chen-Xu , Du Xi-Liang , Fang Zhi-Yuan , Wang Zhe , Liu Guo-Wen , Li Xin-Wei
Published: June 2018

Fatty liver is a major lipid metabolic disease in perinatal dairy cows and is characterized by high blood levels of non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) and insulin resistance. Berberine (BBR) has been reported to improve insulin sensitivity in mice with hepatic steatosis. Mitochondrial dysfunction is considered a causal factor that induces insulin resistance. This study investigates the underlying mechanism and the beneficial effects of BBR on mitochondrial and insulin signaling in bovine hepatocytes. Revised quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (RQUICKI) of cows with fatty liver was significantly lower than that of healthy cows. Importantly, the Akt and GSK3β phosphorylation levels, protein levels of PGC-1α and four of the five representative subunits of oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) were significantly decreased in cows with fatty liver using Western Blot analysis. In bovine hepatocytes, 1.2 mmol/L NEFA reduced insulin signaling and mitochondrial respiratory chain function, and 10 and 20 umol/L BBR restored these changes. Furthermore, activation of PGC-1α played the same beneficial effects of BBR on hepatocytes treated with NEFA. BBR treatment improves NEFA-impaired mitochondrial respiratory chain function and insulin signaling by increasing PGC-1α expression in hepatocytes, which provides a potential new strategy for the prevention and treatment of fatty liver in dairy cows.
Particle Bombardment of the cry2A Gene Cassette Induces Stem Borer Resistance in Sugarcane
Authors: Gao Shiwu , Yang Yingying , Xu Liping , Guo Jinlong , Su Yachun , Wu Qibin , Wang Chunfeng , Que Youxiong
Published: June 2018

Sugarcane borer is the most common and harmful pest in Chinese sugarcane fields, and can cause damage to the whole plant during the entire growing season. To improve borer resistance in sugarcane, we constructed a plant expression vector pGcry2A0229 with the bar gene as the marker and the cry2A gene as the target, and introduced it into embryogenic calli of most widely cultivated sugarcane cultivar ROC22 by particle bombardment. After screening with phosphinothricin in vitro and Basta spray, 21 resistance-regenerated plants were obtained, and 10 positive transgenic lines harboring the cry2A gene were further confirmed by conventional PCR detection. Real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) analysis showed that the copy number of the cry2A gene varied among different transgenic lines but did not exceed four copies. Quantitative ELISA analysis showed that there was no linear relationship with copy number but negatively correlated with the percentage of borer-infested plants. The analysis of industrial and agronomic traits showed that the theoretical sugar yields of transgenic lines TR-4 and TR-10 were slightly lower than that of the control in both plant cane and ratoon cane; nevertheless, TR-4 and TR-10 lines exhibited markedly lower in frequency of borer-infested plants in plant cane and in the ratoon cane compared to the control. Our results indicate that the introduction of the cry2A gene via bombardment produces transgenic lines with obviously increased stem borer resistance and comparable sugar yield, providing a practical value in direct commercial cultivation and crossbreeding for ROC22 has been used as the most popular elite genitor in various breeding programs in China.
High-Risk Human Papillomaviral Oncogenes E6 and E7 Target Key Cellular Pathways to Achieve Oncogenesis
Authors: Yeo-Teh Nicole S. L. , Ito Yoshiaki , Jha Sudhakar
Published: June 2018

Infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) has been linked to several human cancers, the most prominent of which is cervical cancer. The integration of the viral genome into the host genome is one of the manners in which the viral oncogenes E6 and E7 achieve persistent expression. The most well-studied cellular targets of the viral oncogenes E6 and E7 are p53 and pRb, respectively. However, recent research has demonstrated the ability of these two viral factors to target many more cellular factors, including proteins which regulate epigenetic marks and splicing changes in the cell. These have the ability to exert a global change, which eventually culminates to uncontrolled proliferation and carcinogenesis.
The Role of Genetic Polymorphisms in Chronic Pain Patients
Authors: Knezevic Nebojsa Nick , Tverdohleb Tatiana , Knezevic Ivana , Candido Kenneth D.
Published: June 2018

It is estimated that the total annual financial cost for pain management in the U.S. exceeds 100 billion dollars. However, when indirect costs are included, such as functional disability and reduction in working hours, the cost can reach more than 300 billion dollars. In chronic pain patients, the role of pharmacogenetics is determined by genetic effects on various pain types, as well as the genetic effect on drug safety and efficacy. In this review article, we discuss genetic polymorphisms present in different types of chronic pain, such as fibromyalgia, low back pain, migraine, painful peripheral diabetic neuropathy and trigeminal neuralgia. Furthermore, we discuss the role of CYP450 enzymes involved in metabolism of drugs, which have been used for treatment of chronic pain (amitriptyline, duloxetine, opioids, etc.). We also discuss how pharmacogenetics can be applied towards improving drug efficacy, shortening the time required to achieve therapeutic outcomes, reducing risks of side effects, and reducing medical costs and reliance upon polypharmacy.
Designing and Managing a Smart Parking System Using Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Hilmani Adil , Maizate Abderrahim , Hassouni Larbi
Published: June 2018

For several years, the population of cities has continued to multiply at a rapid pace. The main cause of this phenomenon in developing countries like Morocco is the rural exodus. In fact, rural youth are increasingly attracted by the modern way of life and the opportunities of employment offered by cities. This increase in population density has a large number of negative effects on the quality of life in the city. The most obvious is the intensity of the traffic, which has become an almost insurmountable problem and which causes a great deal of damage, such as the increase in the number of accidents that cause serious bodily harm to the road users, the pollution caused by the large amount of CO2 released by the vehicles, and the continuous stress of drivers who must drive in often narrow and very busy roads and who must look for a long time to find a space to park. Thus, to solve the parking problem, several modern technologies have been created to equip car parks with smart devices that help road users identify the nearest car park that has a free space. These technologies most often use wireless sensor networks and Internet of Things (IoT) technology. In this paper, we present the design and development of a smart parking system using the latest technologies based on wireless sensor networks (WSN). Our system uses an adaptable and hybrid self-organization algorithm for wireless sensor networks that adapts to all types of car parks existing in the city (linear and mass parking), and offers a better management of the energy consumption during the wireless communication to increase the lifetime of the sensor nodes and the longevity of the WSN. This system also offers innovative services which facilitate the task to the drivers when looking for an available parking space in the city near their destination, in a fast and efficient manner.