bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DUAL-ASPECT MONISM ACCORDING TO THE PAULI-JUNG CONJECTURE
Authors: Atmanspacher Harald
Published: March 2019

In the mid 20th century, the physicist Wolfgang Pauli and the psychologist Carl Gustav Jung proposed a conceptual framework, not more than speculative at the time, which may help us to clarify psychophysical phenomena beyond what our knowledge about the mental and the physical in separation are capable of achieving. Their conjecture of a Dual-Aspect Monism, with a complementary relationship between mental and material aspects of an underlying, psychophysically neutral reality, is subtler and more sophisticated than many other attempts to discuss the problem of how mind and matter are related to one another.
CONSTRUÇÃO E ANÁLISE DE UM FOLHETO EDUCATIVO PARA CRIANÇAS FENILCETONÚRICAS E SEUS CUIDADORES
Authors: Pinheiro Mariana Castelo , Vale Marjorie Rafaela Lima do
Published: March 2019

Given the scarcity of educational materials (EM) to guide nutrition education strategies for phenilketonuric (PKU) patients, the goal of the present study was to develop and analyse the appearance and content validity of a EM directed to phenylketonuric children and their caregivers. The EM was evaluated by five professionals with expertise in the management of PKU. The material comprised 20 pages. All categories presented a satisfactory Index of Content Adequacy, meaning that the material was coherent, relevant and well structured. The final Flesch Reading Ease Score index was 77. The ‘ABC of Phenyl’ Manual is appropriate and therefore suitable for use as an adjuvant in the management of phenylketonuria with pediatric patients.
O papel do professor tutor no Programa de Residência Multiprofissional: relato de experiência
Authors: Carlesso Janaína Pereira Pretto
Published: March 2019

O presente artigo visa apresentar o papel do professor tutor realizado no Programa de Residência Multiprofissional em Reabilitação Física numa instituição privada de ensino brasileira por meio de um relato de experiência. O professor tutor tem a função de dar suporte aos alunos residentes por meio do ensino de técnicas e habilidades para dar assistência interdisciplinar a pessoas com algum comprometimento físico, seja ele temporário ou permanente nos diversos cenários de atenção em reabilitação. Conclui-se que o papel do professor tutor é fundamental no processo de ensino-aprendizagem, pois contribui de forma importante na qualificação dos profissionais para atuação interdisciplinar auxiliando no aperfeiçoamento ético, humano e técnico-científico, assim como para o atendimento integral à saúde das pessoas, famílias e comunidades.
Fatores relevantes no comportamento de compra de alimentos: uma pesquisa com estudantes universitários
Authors: Azevedo Ismael de Mendonça
Published: March 2019

O estudo do comportamento de compra, ou comportamento do consumidor, não é algo novo nas ciências sociais. Existe uma compreensão que na perspectiva do comprador, são muitos os fatores que podem atuar na influência da escolha de um bem ou serviço para aquisição. É a partir deste contexto que o estudo apresenta como objetivo geral: identificar quais fatores são determinantes para a compra de alimentos para consumo na praça de alimentação de uma universidade por parte dos alunos. Optou-se pela utilização do método quali-quantitativo, com finalidade exploratória e descritiva. E, como resultado, evidenciou-se que três categorias se destacam como fatores determinantes para o consumo dos estudantes, são elas: (1) percepção do consumo com base em uma motivação cultural existente entre os alunos na universidade; (2) percepção da influência para o consumo advindo dos grupos sociais formados pelos colegas e amigos e, por último; (3) percepção do consumo como uma experiência aprendida com base em boas ou más experiências no atendimento. Por fim, conclui-se que os estudantes universitários encontram na cultura de consumo, nos grupos sociais e em suas experiências aprendidas, os principais fatores que influenciam o seu comportamento de consumo de alimentos no ambiente universitário.
The Role of Company Size on CSR Commitment, the Existence of Female's Board, Managerial Ownership, Board Size to Disclosure of Corporate Social Responsibility in Islamic Banking
Authors: Halimah Siti Nur , Rahmawati Rahmawati
Published: March 2019

Information on disclosure of corporate social responsibility is information on a company's social responsibility to parties outside the company. This disclosure is disclosed in the company's annual report and corporate governance report. The purpose of this study was to analyze the effect of corporate governance and the size of the company on the disclosure of Islamic banking in Indonesia and to analyze the effect of moderating variables on disclosure of corporate social responsibility. The number of datatook in this study was 48 data that had been processed. The data used in this study were the annual Islamic banking reports, financial statements, and corporate governance reports respectively. This test used regression tests and moderating variables. The results obtained that CSR commitment has positive correlation to CSR disclosure and the existence of female's board, managerial ownership has negative correlation to CSR disclosure, meanwhile, board size does not affect the CSR disclosure. After applied the moderation variable, it increased the disclosure of corporate social responsibility.
External Auditor Selection Choice: A Multinomial Logistic Regression Approach
Authors: Odum Augustine Nwekemezie , Egbunike Francis Chinedu
Published: March 2019

This research work examines the factors that determine the selection of external auditor among Global Brand listed companies in Nigeria. The variables of Audit Big 4 firms which include Deloitte, Klynveld Peat Marwick Goerdeler, (KPMG) and Price Water House Coopers (PWC) where selected as choice target for this research work. Big four audit firm of Ernst’s & Young (E&Y) was excluded in the sample as it is found not to have provided audit services to any of the selected global brand listed company in Nigeria during the period covered by this study. The study employed the methodology of Multinomial Probit Regression (MPR) analysis in X-raying the data. Empirical evidence shows that there is a significant positive relationship between firm size and choice of external auditor’s selection for the big four audit firms of KPMG and Deloitte. The study also provides a revelation that the relationship between the variable of firm size is negative and statistically significant with audit firm of Price Water House Coopers (PWC). The research work carefully recommends that global brand companies in Nigeria with interest to hire audit services of Deloitte and KPMG must ensure that its total asset is significantly large. But suffice to state here that this may not apply to the audit firm of Price Water House Copper Corporation where the variable of audit fee is a significant determinant in the quest for employing it audit services.
UPAYA MENINGKATKAN KOMPETENSI GURU DALAM MENYUSUN RENCANA PELAKSANAAN PEMBELAJARAN (RPP) BERKARAKTER MELALUI SUPERVISI AKADEMIK DI SMK N 3 PATI
Authors: Sunoto Sunoto
Published: March 2019

ENGLISHThe background of this research is lower competency of teacher in SMK Negeri 3 Pati in preparing lesson plans character. Academic supervisions in SMK Negeri 3 Pati are conducted in order to improve the competency of teacher in preparing lesson plans character. The research subjects are the Islamic education teacher of grade X, the social science teacher of grade XII, the civic education teacher of grade X, the Indonesian language teacher of grade XI and the English language teacher of grade XI. This research method is descriptive with quantitative and qualitative approaches. The data are collected through documentation, observation, interviews and assignments. The research is designed through two cycles with procedure: (1) planning; (2) the action executions; (3) observation; and (4) reflection. The result shows that teacher’s competency increases indicated by: 1) the average score for the first cycle is 71 rated "good"; and 2) the average score for the second cycle is 90 rated "very good". The conclusion of this study is that the implementation of the academic supervision can improve the competency of teacher in preparing the lesson plans character in SMK Negeri 3 Pati. INDONESIAPenelitian ini dilatarbelakangi permasalahan rendahnya kompetensi guru dalam menyusun RPP berkarakter. Untuk mengatasi permasalahan ini, dilakukan supervisi akademik yang bertujuan untuk meningkatkan kompetensi guru dalam menyusun RPP berkarakter. Subjek penelitian adalah guru mata pelajaran Pendidikan agama Islam kelas X, Ilmu Pengetahuan Sosial kelas XII, Pendidikan Kewarganegaraan kelas X, Bahasa Indonesia Kelas XI dan Bahasa Inggris kelas XI. Metode penelitian ini adalah deskriptif dengan pendekatan kuantitatif dan kualitatif. Teknik pengumpulan data melalui dokumentasi, observasi, wawancara dan penugasan. Desain penelitian dirancang melalui dua siklus dengan prosedur: 1) Perencanaan; 2) Pelaksanaan tindakan; 3) Pengamatan; dan 4) Refleksi. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan peningkatan kompetensi, untuk siklus I sebesar 71 poin dinilai “baik” dan siklus II sebesar 90 poin dinilai “sangat baik”. Dengan demikian dapat disimpulkan bahwa pelaksanaan supervisi akademik dapat meningkatkan kompetensi guru dalam menyusun RPP berkarakter di SMK Negeri 3 Pati.
A BRIEF REVIEW FOR IDENTIFICATION AND DETECTION OF POTATO VIRUSES
Authors: Urooj Madiha , Arif Uzma , Intikhab Anisa
Published: March 2019

Potato is ranked fourth among the food crop and fifth for human consumption. It provides more yield and calories production as compare to cereals. Fungal, viral, viroid, bacteria, nematode, phytoplasmas and abiotic factors play a pivotal role for yield reduction of potato crop. Viruses known to infect potato in Pakistan include PVA, PVM, PVS, PVX, PVY, PLRV and PMTV. Increasing incidence of PVX and PVY in main potato growing areas of Pakistan is getting an alarming position and PLRV has caused significant yield losses. Present review article demonstrate different techniques for diagnostics of major potato viruses.
A REVIEW PAPER ON POTATO MOP-TOP VIRUS (PMTV): OCCURRENCE, PROPERTIES AND MANAGEMENT
Authors: Abbas Aqleem , Madadi Meysam
Published: March 2019

Potato mop-top virus (PMTV) is a plant pathogenic virus that affects potatoes. The virus was initially reported from Germany but now it has spread throughout Europe, Asia, South America and North America. It is responsible for spraing symptoms (brown arcs/lines, blemishes, and rings) on potato tubers and yellow chevrons or mopping (Shortened internodes) in the leaves and stems of plants grown from infected potato tubers. PMTV causes huge economic losses due to poor tuber quality. It is an important disease in the potato growing areas of the world. PMTV is tubular rod shape and has a single stranded positive sense RNA (+ssRNA) tripartite genome. RNA 1 encodes RdRp (viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase). Coat protein (20kDa) and a larger protein (91kDa) is encoded by RNA2. RNA2 encodes larger protein (91 kDa) by read through (RT) of the amber termination codon of the coat protein. There are three conserved moldular sets of genes known as triple gene block (TGB) which are coded by RNA3. These TGBs are involved in cell to cell or long distance movement of PMTV. In nature, PMTV is vectored and transmitted by a soil born pathogen (Plasmodiophorid (Spongospora subterranean f.sp. subterranean abbreviated as ‘Sss’) that itself causes the powdery scab disease on tubers. The disease caused by PMTV and Sss are favored by cool and damp conditions. PMTV remain in spore balls of Sss for several years even if the potato is not grown in the field. There are no efficient means to manage the virus nor its vector in an infested field, therefore, preventive measures are essential. Since PMTV along with its vector is causing important disease of potato, so understanding its molecular, biological, physical properties and management strategies is very important.
EFFECT OF CYTOKININS ON IN VITRO SHOOT PROLIFERATION OF OLIVE CULTIVARS “EARLIK” AND “BARI ZAITOON-2”
Authors: Ashraf Sharmin , Manzoor Ayesha , Zulfiqar Bushra , Tariq Muhammad A.
Published: March 2019

In olive, micro-propagation is an effective technique for mass multiplication of disease free, true to type plants, but shoot proliferation in mature tissues of olive is a major difficulty encountered during culture establishment. Thus an experiment was designed with an objective to study the effect of different cytokinins (BAP and Zeatin) on shoot proliferation of two olive cultivars (Earlik and BARI Zaitoon-2). In olive Rugini medium, BAP and Zeatin were added alone and in combination at a concentration of 1 mg L-1 and 2 mg L-1. Experiments were arranged according to completely randomized design (CRD) with three replications per treatment. Results showed that both the olive cultivars performed well when BAP + Zeatin were supplemented to the medium at 2+2 mg L-1 concentration. However, the cultivar “BARI Zaitoon-2” had the highest shooting percentage (90.67 %) and number of nodes per shoot (8.33) in treatment containing BAP (2 mg L-1) + Zeatin (2 mg L-1), whereas, “Earlik” at same concentration had more shoot length (9.10 cm) and number of shoots per explant (3.67). Thus, it was concluded that the findings of these results will help in the future for developing shoot proliferation protocols for other olive cultivars. Moreover, these protocols can also be further be used in other woody plants micro propagation
MOLECULAR CHARACTERIZATION OF ASIAN CITRUS PSYLLID (Diaphorina citri) USING MITOCHONDRIAL CYTOCHROME OXIDASE 1 (MTCO1) GENE FROM PUNJAB PAKISTAN
Authors: Shafiq Muhammad , Fatima Rida , Mushtaq Sehrish , Salman Hafiz M , Talha Muhammad , Razaq Saira , Haider Muhammad S.
Published: March 2019

Citrus greening caused by (Candidatus liberibacter spp.) is one of the most destructive bacterial disease of citrus all over the world and it is transmitted by grafting and psyllid (Diaphorina citri) is responsible for its spread. This study was aimed to detect the prevalence of CLas in different varieties of citrus in Pakistan and molecular characterization of mtco1 gene in Diaphorina citri. DNA was extracted from fourteen different citrus cultivars infected with citrus greening from different orchards of Sargodha Punjab, Pakistan. Specific primers were used to amplify (Mtco1 gene) in Diaphorina citri and also Las specific primers were also used to detect HLB pathogen. Amplified fragments of 507bp, 1500bp and 2500bp were observed in CLas and Mtco1 gene of Asian isolates. The resulted fragments were TA cloned and sequenced from both strands. The infectious bacterium was found in 3 samples out of 14 (21.5 %) while from psyllid it was found in 5 samples (37.5%). The weather changes effect the prevalence of CLas in citrus but usually it decrease during autumn and found Las positive vector in spring or summer season up to 42oC. So there is a need to research on management of citrus greening disease in Pakistan as it caused major yield loses
A Selectable Sloppy Heap
Authors: Dumitrescu Adrian
Published: March 2019

We study the selection problem, namely that of computing the ith order statistic of n given elements. Here we offer a data structure called selectable sloppy heap that handles a dynamic version in which upon request (i) a new element is inserted or (ii) an element of a prescribed quantile group is deleted from the data structure. Each operation is executed in constant time—and is thus independent of n (the number of elements stored in the data structure)—provided that the number of quantile groups is fixed. This is the first result of this kind accommodating both insertion and deletion in constant time. As such, our data structure outperforms the soft heap data structure of Chazelle (which only offers constant amortized complexity for a fixed error rate 0 < ε ≤ 1 / 2 ) in applications such as dynamic percentile maintenance. The design demonstrates how slowing down a certain computation can speed up the data structure. The method described here is likely to have further impact in the field of data structure design in extending asymptotic amortized upper bounds to same formula asymptotic worst-case bounds.
Assessment of Water Flow and Sedimentation Processes in Irrigation Schemes for Decision-Support Tool Development: A Case Review for the Chókwè Irrigation Scheme, Mozambique
Authors: de Sousa Lateiro Salvador , Wambua Raphael Muli , Raude James Messo , Mutua Benedict Mwavu
Published: March 2019

Water flow and sedimentation processes have been significantly erratic at the Chókwè Irrigation Scheme (CIS) and have affected its hydraulic performance. Given its expansion there is need to understand these processes taking place on-site and along the channels of the scheme. CIS being the biggest project of its kind in Mozambique requires proper management of water flow and sedimentation processes. Therefore, the effect of water flow, sediment transport and deposition parameters on the performance of the CIS is needed. In order to determine the effect of spatial and temporal water flow and sediment distribution trends along the irrigation canals, there is need to establish a correlation between these parameters. Determining the influence of water flow velocity on sediment settling rate at different depths along the canal reaches is important in managing the CIS. In addition, a developed decision-support tool to predict sediment deposition is required. For this reason, it is therefore crucial to carry out a timely assessment of water flow and sedimentation processes in CIS in a review concept. From the current review, some gaps that exist for more focused research on Chókwè Irrigation Scheme have been identified. In this regard therefore, there is need to develop an effective support tool for managing water flow and sediment deposition along the canal reaches with a view to increasing crop production in CIS.
Landslide Susceptibility Mapping Based on Random Forest and Boosted Regression Tree Models, and a Comparison of Their Performance
Authors: Park Soyoung , Kim Jinsoo
Published: March 2019

This study aims to analyze and compare landslide susceptibility at Woomyeon Mountain, South Korea, based on the random forest (RF) model and the boosted regression tree (BRT) model. Through the construction of a landslide inventory map, 140 landslide locations were found. Among these, 42 (30%) were reserved to validate the model after 98 (70%) had been selected at random for model training. Fourteen landslide explanatory variables related to topography, hydrology, and forestry factors were considered and selected, based on the results of information gain for the modeling. The results were evaluated and compared using the receiver operating characteristic curve and statistical indices. The analysis showed that the RF model was better than the BRT model. The RF model yielded higher specificity, overall accuracy, and kappa index than the BRT model. In addition, the RF model, with a prediction rate of 0.865, performed slightly better than the BRT model, which had a prediction rate of 0.851. These results indicate that the landslide susceptibility maps (LSMs) produced in this study had good performance for predicting the spatial landslide distribution in the study area. These LSMs could be helpful for establishing mitigation strategies and for land use planning.
NGFI-A Binding Protein 2 Promotes EGF-Dependent HNSCC Cell Invasion
Authors: Kim Jinkyung , Kang Sung-Min , Oh Su Young , Lee Heon-Jin , Lee Inhan , Hwang Jae-Chan , Hong Su-Hyung
Published: March 2019

NGFI-A binding protein 2 (NAB2) represses the transcriptional activation of early growth response protein-1 (EGR1), a tumor-suppressor. However, Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) promotes tumor progression even with significant EGR1 upregulation. The molecular mechanism through which NAB2 is involved in cancer is largely unknown. Therefore, we evaluated how the NAB2-mediated suppression of EGR1 facilitates head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cancer progression, in association with Sp1, which competes with EGR1 as a transcriptional regulator. The effect of NAB2 on EGR1/SP1 binding to the consensus promoter sequences of MMP2 and MMP9 was evaluated by chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and promoter luciferase assay. The correlation between EGR1-NAB2 expression and metastatic status was investigated using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) for HNSCC patients. Our data showed that NAB2 knockdown in FaDu and YD-10B HNSCC cells alleviated EGF-dependent increase of Matrigel invasion. In addition, NAB2 upregulation in EGF-treated FaDu cell diminishes EGR1 transcriptional activity, resulting in the upregulation of Sp1-dependent tumor-promoting genes. TCGA data analysis of 483 HNSCC tumors showed that higher levels of both EGR1 and NAB2 mRNA were significantly associated with metastasis, corresponding to in vitro results. Our data suggest that NAB2 upregulation facilitates EGF-mediated cancer cell invasion through the transactivation of Sp1-dependent tumor-promoting genes. These results provide insight into the paradoxical roles of EGF-EGR1 in cancer progression.
Tumor Energy Metabolism and Potential of 3-Bromopyruvate as an Inhibitor of Aerobic Glycolysis: Implications in Tumor Treatment
Authors: Fan Tengjiao , Sun Guohui , Sun Xiaodong , Zhao Lijiao , Zhong Rugang , Peng Yongzhen
Published: March 2019

Tumor formation and growth depend on various biological metabolism processes that are distinctly different with normal tissues. Abnormal energy metabolism is one of the typical characteristics of tumors. It has been proven that most tumor cells highly rely on aerobic glycolysis to obtain energy rather than mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) even in the presence of oxygen, a phenomenon called “Warburg effect”. Thus, inhibition of aerobic glycolysis becomes an attractive strategy to specifically kill tumor cells, while normal cells remain unaffected. In recent years, a small molecule alkylating agent, 3-bromopyruvate (3-BrPA), being an effective glycolytic inhibitor, has shown great potential as a promising antitumor drug. Not only it targets glycolysis process, but also inhibits mitochondrial OXPHOS in tumor cells. Excellent antitumor effects of 3-BrPA were observed in cultured cells and tumor-bearing animal models. In this review, we described the energy metabolic pathways of tumor cells, mechanism of action and cellular targets of 3-BrPA, antitumor effects, and the underlying mechanism of 3-BrPA alone or in combination with other antitumor drugs (e.g., cisplatin, doxorubicin, daunorubicin, 5-fluorouracil, etc.) in vitro and in vivo. In addition, few human case studies of 3-BrPA were also involved. Finally, the novel chemotherapeutic strategies of 3-BrPA, including wafer, liposomal nanoparticle, aerosol, and conjugate formulations, were also discussed for future clinical application.
Extinction Analysis of Stochastic Predator–Prey System with Stage Structure and Crowley–Martin Functional Response
Authors: Xu Conghui , Ren Guojian , Yu Yongguang
Published: March 2019

In this paper, we researched some dynamical behaviors of a stochastic predator–prey system, which is considered under the combination of Crowley–Martin functional response and stage structure. First, we obtained the existence and uniqueness of the global positive solution of the system. Then, we studied the stochastically ultimate boundedness of the solution. Furthermore, we established two sufficient conditions, which are separately given to ensure the stochastic extinction of the prey and predator populations. In the end, we carried out the numerical simulations to explain some cases.
Informed Weighted Non-Negative Matrix Factorization Using αβ-Divergence Applied to Source Apportionment
Authors: Delmaire Gilles , Omidvar Mahmoud , Puigt Matthieu , Ledoux Frédéric , Limem Abdelhakim , Roussel Gilles , Courcot Dominique
Published: March 2019

In this paper, we propose informed weighted non-negative matrix factorization (NMF) methods using an α β -divergence cost function. The available information comes from the exact knowledge/boundedness of some components of the factorization—which are used to structure the NMF parameterization—together with the row sum-to-one property of one matrix factor. In this contribution, we extend our previous work which partly involved some of these aspects to α β -divergence cost functions. We derive new update rules which are extendthe previous ones and take into account the available information. Experiments conducted for several operating conditions on realistic simulated mixtures of particulate matter sources show the relevance of these approaches. Results from a real dataset campaign are also presented and validated with expert knowledge.
Creating Landscape-Scale Site Index Maps for the Southeastern US Is Possible with Airborne LiDAR and Landsat Imagery
Authors: Gopalakrishnan Ranjith , Kauffman Jobriath S. , Fagan Matthew E. , Coulston John W. , Thomas Valerie A. , Wynne Randolph H. , Fox Thomas R. , Quirino Valquiria F.
Published: March 2019

Sustainable forest management is hugely dependent on high-quality estimates of forest site productivity, but it is challenging to generate productivity maps over large areas. We present a method for generating site index (a measure of such forest productivity) maps for plantation loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) forests over large areas in the southeastern United States by combining airborne laser scanning (ALS) data from disparate acquisitions and Landsat-based estimates of forest age. For predicting canopy heights, a linear regression model was developed using ALS data and field measurements from the Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) program of the US Forest Service (n = 211 plots). The model was strong (R2 = 0.84, RMSE = 1.85 m), and applicable over a large area (~208,000 sq. km). To estimate the site index, we combined the ALS estimated heights with Landsat-derived maps of stand age and planted pine area. The estimated bias was low (−0.28 m) and the RMSE (3.8 m, relative RMSE: 19.7%, base age 25 years) was consistent with other similar approaches. Due to Landsat-related constraints, our methodology is valid only for relatively young pine plantations established after 1984. We generated 30 m resolution site index maps over a large area (~832 sq. km). The site index distribution had a median value of 19.4 m, the 5th percentile value of 13.0 m and the 95th percentile value of 23.3 m. Further, using a watershed level analysis, we ranked these regions by their estimated productivity. These results demonstrate the potential and value of remote sensing based large-area site index maps.
Primary Health Care Center (PHCC) Location-Allocation with Multi-Objective Modelling: A Case Study in Idleb, Syria
Authors: Miç Pınar , Koyuncu Melik , Hallak Jamil
Published: March 2019

The Syrian crisis began on 15 March 2011. It is one of the bloodiest and complicated conflicts in the world today. Although almost eight years have passed over this tragedy, civilians continue to suffer from conflicts and destructions in the area. As a result, this situation disregards human life and the number of people in need increases day by day. Particularly, people who have to live in the conflict area encounter troubles with regard to health, shelter, food and other needs. Thus, we have focused on identifying the Primary Health Care Center (PHCC) locations within Idleb Governorate in Syria. Data is extracted from a sample containing 23 sub-districts in the governorate and a total of 338 communities. We have formulated a mixed integer-weighted goal programming model and combined it with a Geographic Information System-GIS (ArcMap). The model is solved via an optimization package and moreover, sensitivity analyses are conducted to achieve a more in-depth study. Our aim was to have 60 PHCCs out of 77 available candidate PHCCs and the model located 42 PHCCs in total, by allocating 379,080 people, with a total cost of USD 1,000,353 and a cash for work amounting to USD 163,549. Accordingly, the model’s outputs and sensitivity analyses are expected to help decision-makers in case of such disasters.
Postprandial Blood Pressure Decrease in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes and Mild or Severe Cardiac Autonomic Dysfunction
Authors: Hashizume Masahiko , Kinami Saori , Sakurai Keiichi , Izawa Kazuhiro P. , Shiotani Hideyuki
Published: March 2019

Background Few reports have evaluated the relationship between changes in postprandial blood pressure and the severity of autonomic dysfunction in patients with type 2 diabetes. This was a cross-sectional study designed to investigate postprandial blood pressure changes in individuals without type 2 diabetes and patients with type 2 diabetes and mild or severe cardiac autonomic dysfunction. Methods Forty patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and 20 individuals without type 2 diabetes participated in this study. Fifty-two participants underwent a meal tolerance test. Blood pressure (brachial systolic blood pressure (bSBP) and central systolic blood pressure (cSBP)), electrocardiogram recordings, and blood samples were assessed before and after meal ingestion. Patients with diabetes were divided into two groups based on their coefficient of variation of R–R intervals (CVRR): a normal or mildly dysfunctional group (mild group, CVRR ≥ 2%; n = 20) and a severely dysfunctional group (severe group, CVRR < 2%; n = 15). Results In the control group, bSBP and cSBP did not significantly change after meal ingestion, whereas both decreased significantly at 60 min after meal ingestion in the mild and severe groups. While blood pressure recovered at 120 min after meal ingestion in the mild group, a significant decrease in blood pressure persisted at 120 min after meal ingestion in the severe group. Conclusions Based on these results, adequate clinical attention should be paid to the risk of serious events related to postprandial decreases in blood pressure, particularly in patients with diabetes and severe cardiac autonomic dysfunction.
Evaluating Commonalities Across Medically Unexplained Symptoms
Authors: Guo Dan , Kleinstäuber Maria , Johnson Malcolm Henry , Sundram Frederick
Published: March 2019

This commentary presents commonalities in medically unexplained symptoms (MUS) across multiple organ systems, including symptoms, aetiological mechanisms, comorbidity with mental health disorders, symptom burden and impact on quality of life. Further, treatment outcomes and barriers in the clinician–patient relationship, and cross-cultural experiences are highlighted. This discussion is necessary in aiding an improved understanding and management of MUS due to the interconnectedness underlying MUS presentations across the spectrum of medical specialties.
Modifiable Individual Factors Associated with Breastfeeding: A Cohort Study in China
Authors: Wu Xialing , Gao Xiao , Sha Tingting , Zeng Guangyu , Liu Shiping , Li Ling , Chen Cheng , Yan Yan
Published: March 2019

Breast milk is an ideal first food for infants in the initial months of life. This study aimed to identify modifiable individual factors in breastfeeding during the first six months of life in Hunan. This birth cohort study was conducted in three communities in Changsha, Hunan province. Data were collected through maternal health manuals and self-administered questionnaires during the follow-up period. To find risk factors and calculate odds ratios, generalized estimating equation models were applied. The final study included 951 mother-infant pairs. The prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding and any breastfeeding in this study was below the World Health Organization’s breastfeeding goals. Infant age, passive smoking after delivery, minor postnatal depression, and feeding-bottles were shown to act negatively on both exclusive breastfeeding and any breastfeeding. In addition, cesarean delivery and delayed breastfeeding initiation had adverse effects on exclusive breastfeeding. Multiparas were less likely to continue any breastfeeding during the first few months. This study highlights the importance of screening probable maternal depression during primary care service and reducing secondhand smoke and feeding-bottle use. The results also suggest that healthcare professionals should provide more assistance and education to multiparas and mothers with cesarean delivery or delayed breastfeeding initiation.
The Impact of Financial Leverage on the Variance of Stock Returns
Authors: Aharon David Yechiam , Yagil Yossi
Published: March 2019

This paper investigates the direct theoretical relationship between the variance of stock returns (σ2E) and financial leverage (L) considering both corporate and personal taxes. Using a dataset of U.S. industrial firms, we examine the variance of stock returns as a function of the firm’s financial leverage. We demonstrate that (1) the variance of stock returns is positively related to the firm’s financial leverage, (2) the relationship between the variance of stock returns and financial leverage is positive when corporate and personal taxes are also considered, and (3) with regard to the relationship between the variance of stock returns and financial leverage, using market measures of the latter tends to generate a higher coefficient of determination and a more accurate approximation of the theoretical relationship between financial leverage and the variance of stock returns.
Clinical Potential and Current Progress of Dental Pulp Stem Cells for Various Systemic Diseases in Regenerative Medicine: A Concise Review
Authors: Yamada Yoichi , Nakamura-Yamada Sayaka , Kusano Kaoru , Baba Shunsuke
Published: March 2019

Dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) are mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) that have multipotent differentiation and a self-renewal ability. They have been useful not only for dental diseases, but also for systemic diseases. Extensive studies have suggested that DPSCs are effective for various diseases, such as spinal cord injuries, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, cerebral ischemia, myocardial infarction, muscular dystrophy, diabetes, liver diseases, eye diseases, immune diseases, and oral diseases. DPSCs have the potential for use in a cell-therapeutic paradigm shift to treat these diseases. It has also been reported that DPSCs have higher regenerative potential than the bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells known as representative MSCs. Therefore, DPSCs have recently gathered much attention. In this review, the therapeutic potential of DPSCs, the latest progress in the pre-clinical study for treatment of these various systemic diseases, and the clinical applications of DPSCs in regenerative medicine, are all summarized. Although challenges, including mechanisms of the effects and establishment of cell processing and transplantation methods for clinical use, still remain, DPSCs could be promising stem cells sources for various clinical applications, because of their easy isolation by a noninvasive procedure without ethical concerns.
On the Influence of Inhomogeneous Interphase Layers on Instabilities in Hyperelastic Composites
Authors: Arora Nitesh , Batan Adi , Li Jian , Slesarenko Viacheslav , Rudykh Stephan
Published: March 2019

Polymer-based three-dimensional (3D) printing—such as the UV-assisted layer-by-layer polymerization technique—enables fabrication of deformable microstructured materials with pre-designed properties. However, the properties of such materials require careful characterization. Thus, for example, in the polymerization process, a new interphase zone is formed at the boundary between two constituents. This article presents a study of the interphasial transition zone effect on the elastic instability phenomenon in hyperelastic layered composites. In this study, three different types of the shear modulus distribution through the thickness of the interphasial layer were considered. Numerical Bloch-Floquet analysis was employed, superimposed on finite deformations to detect the onset of instabilities and the associated critical wavelength. Significant changes in the buckling behavior of the composites were observed because of the existence of the interphasial inhomogeneous layers. Interphase properties influence the onset of instabilities and the buckling patterns. Numerical simulations showed that interlayer inhomogeneity may result in higher stability of composites with respect to classical layup constructions of identical shear stiffness. Moreover, we found that the critical wavelength of the buckling mode can be regulated by the inhomogeneous interphase properties. Finally, a qualitative illustration of the effect is presented for 3D-printed deformable composites with varying thickness of the stiff phase.
Experimental Investigation on Friction and Wear Behavior of the Vertical Spindle and V-belt of a Cotton Picker
Authors: Amanov Auezhan , Sembiring Jan Putra Bahtra Agung , Amanov Tileubay
Published: March 2019

This study deals with the friction and wear behavior of the vertical spindle and V-belt to improve the reliability, operation and to extend the service life of a cotton picker. The vertical spindle made of low-carbon steel (ST3) was treated by the ultrasonic nanocrystal surface modification (UNSM) technique to control the friction and wear behavior. It was found that the UNSM technique reduced surface roughness and increased surface hardness of the vertical spindle. The friction and wear behavior of the vertical spindle and V-belt was assessed by carrying out tribological tests and the results showed that the UNSM-treated vertical spindle generated a higher friction coefficient compared to the untreated one due to having less slip. In case of wear resistance, unmeasurable wear occurred on the surface of the vertical spindle due to its significant high hardness compared to the hardness of the V-belt that came into contact with the vertical spindle in relative motion. Hence, the wear behavior and mechanisms of the V-belts were systematically investigated and also discussed based on the wear track profiles and micrographs. It can be concluded that the application of the UNSM technique to the vertical spindle may contribute to improve the performance of cotton pickers by reducing the slip and prolonging the service life.
Certain Geometric Properties of Lommel and Hyper-Bessel Functions
Authors: Mushtaq Saima , Raza Mohsan , Din Muhey U
Published: March 2019

In this article, we are mainly interested in finding the sufficient conditions under which Lommel functions and hyper-Bessel functions are close-to-convex with respect to the certain starlike functions. Strongly starlikeness and convexity of Lommel functions and hyper-Bessel functions are also discussed. Some applications are also the part of our investigation.
Correction: Roncoroni, L. et al. A Low FODMAP Gluten-Free Diet Improves Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders and Overall Mental Health of Celiac Disease Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Nutrients 2018, 10, 1023
Authors: Roncoroni Leda , Bascuñán Karla , Doneda Luisa , Scricciolo Alice , Lombardo Vincenza , Branchi Federica , Ferretti Francesca , Dell’Osso Bernardo , Montanari Valeria , Bardella Maria , Elli Luca
Published: March 2019

The authors have requested that the following changes be made to their paper [...]
Effects of Freeze–Thaw Thermal Cycles on the Mechanical Degradation of the Gas Diffusion Layer in Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells
Authors: Chen Yanqin , Jiang Chao , Cho Chongdu
Published: March 2019

In this paper, the mechanical degradation of a commercial gas diffusion layer subjected to repeated freeze–thaw thermal cycles is studied. In a fuel cell, the mechanical assembly state directly affects the performance of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells. Particularly, the gas diffusion layer repeatedly withstands the complex heat and humidity environmental conditions in which the temperature and humidity are always greatly changed. Studying the three-dimensional mechanical degradation of gas diffusion layers due to orthotropic properties is very useful in extending the lifetime and durability of fuel cells. To investigate this, we first established the standard freeze–thaw thermal cycle and studied the gas diffusion layer’s mechanical degradation performance with up to 400 repeated freeze–thaw thermal cycles. Furthermore, different types of failure in the gas diffusion layer caused by the repeated thermal aging treatment were observed using a scanning electron microscope, to explain the change in the mechanical deterioration. As a result, the different thermal failure plays different roles in the explanation of the gas diffusion layer’s mechanical degradation under different thermal cycles. In particular, the thermal failure that resulted from the first 100 thermal cycles has the greatest effect on the compressive and tensile performance, compared to the shear behavior.
Digital Luminescence Patterning via Inkjet Printing of a Photoacid Catalysed Organic-Inorganic Hybrid Formulation
Authors: Alamán Jorge , López-Valdeolivas María , Alicante Raquel , Peña Jose Ignacio , Sánchez-Somolinos Carlos
Published: March 2019

Accurate positioning of luminescent materials at the microscale is essential for the further development of diverse application fields including optoelectronics, energy, biotechnology and anti-counterfeiting. In this respect, inkjet printing has recently attracted great interest due to its ability to precisely deposit with high throughput and no contact, functional materials on different types of substrates. Here, we present a novel photoacid catalysed organic-inorganic hybrid luminescent ink. The formulation, containing monomers bearing epoxy and silane functionalities, a photoacid generator and a small percentage of Rhodamine-B, shows good jetting properties and adequate wetting of the deposited droplets on the receiving substrates. Ultraviolet exposure of the deposited material triggers the cationic ring-opening polymerization reaction of the epoxy groups. Concomitantly, if atmospheric water is available, hydrolysis and condensation takes place, overall leading to a luminescent crosslinked hybrid organic-inorganic polymeric material obtained through a simple one-step curing process, without post baking steps. Advantageously, protection of the ink from actinic light delays the hydrolysis and condensation conferring long-term stability to the ink. Digital patterning leads to patterned emissive surfaces and elements with good adhesion to different substrates, mechanical and optical properties for the fabrication of optical and photonic elements and devices.
One-Dimensional Mercury Halide Coordination Polymers Based on A Semi-Rigid N-Donor Ligand: Reversible Structural Transformation
Authors: Mahat Chhetri Pradhumna , Yang Xiang-Kai , Yang Chih-Tung , Chen Jhy-Der
Published: March 2019

Four one-dimensional (1D) mercury(II) halide coordination polymers have been synthesized by using a semi-rigid N-donor ligand, 2,2′-(1,4-phenylene)-bis(N-(pyridin-3-yl)acetamide) (1,4-pbpa). While [Hg(1,4-pbpa)Cl2·CH3OH]n, 1, forms a sinusoidal chain, the complexes [Hg(1,4-pbpa)X2]n (X = Cl, 2; Br, 3; I, 4) are helical. The sinusoidal 1 undergoes reversible structural transformation with helical 2 upon removal and uptake of CH3OH, which was accompanied with the conformation adjustment of the 1,4-pbpa ligand from trans anti-anti to trans syn-anti. Pyridyl ring rotation of the 1,4-pbpa ligand that results in the change of the ligand conformation is proposed for the initiation of the structural transformation.
Reinforcing Linear Low-Density Polyethylene with Surfactant-Treated Microfibrillated Cellulose
Authors: Wang Guangzhao , Yang Xiaohui , Wang Weihong
Published: March 2019

Due to its excellent mechanical properties and reinforcement abilities, cellulose has become a promising candidate for developing nanocomposites. However, cellulose agglomeration is an issue that must be solved. In this study, we treated microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) with a mixture of the non-ionic surfactants Span80 and Tween80 (ratio of 1:1) in order to prevent the intermolecular hydrogen bond aggregation of MFC during the process of MFC drying. We used a conical twin-screw extruder to melt compounds for the surfactant-treated MFC and powdered LLDPE. Furthermore, the extruded mixture was hot-pressed into a film, and we also tested the properties of the composite film. We can conclude that there was no agglomeration in the composite film according to microscopic observations and light transmittance test results. Furthermore, the dispersion of the surfactant-treated MFC (STMFC) was uniform until the STMFC filler increased to 10 wt%. The mechanical test results show that when the content of STMFC filler was 10 wt%, the mechanical properties of the composite were optimal. Compared to LLDPE, the STMFC/LLDPE composite film had an increase of 41.03% in tensile strength and an increase of 106.35% in Young’s modulus. Under this system, the DSC results show that the melting point of LLDPE increased from 125 to 131 °C. X-ray diffraction (XRD) results showed that the addition of STMFC did not change the crystallinity of the STMFC/LDPE composites, although the crystallite size increased.
The “Abhorrent” Practice of Animal Sacrifice and Religious Discrimination in the Global South
Authors: Boaz Danielle N.
Published: March 2019

In September 2018, the majority Buddhist government of Sri Lanka approved draft legislation banning animal sacrifice at Hindu Temples. The Cabinet referred to these sacrifices as a “primitive” practice that can cause physical and mental harm to society. Similarly, the Federal Supreme Court of Brazil is presently evaluating the constitutionality of a proposed bill banning animal sacrifice in the state of Rio Grande do Sul. Proponents of this bill argue that animal rights supersede the religious freedom of the adherents of Afro-Brazilian faiths who perform these sacrifices. They further contend that the practice of animal sacrifice poses a threat to public health. Through the evaluation of these cases, this article will consider the relationship between animal sacrifice and religious freedom in the Global South. Using Brazil and Sri Lanka as examples, it will explore how laws and litigation protecting animal welfare can often be a guise for racial discrimination and religious intolerance.
Muslim Everyday Religious Practices in Austria. From Defensive to Open Religiosity
Authors: Kolb Jonas , Yildiz Erol
Published: March 2019

Although Muslim groups in the population comprise an integral component of Austrian society, the public image of Islam tends to be generally negative. In the meantime, there are now significant successor generations of Muslims who, in contrast with their parents’ generation, have other religious orientations and positionings, and have become hybrid, heterogeneous individuals with ‘multiple-home’ attachments living in Austria. Nonetheless, in public discourse, they appear as a homogeneous group. Our study is based on a change in perspective, shifting front and center the religious orientation of these persons as seen from their own perspective and experiences. The findings of our study on Muslim diversity in Austria show just how differentiated, complex, ambivalent, and hybrid the everyday religious practice of individuals directly on the ground is or can be. In the following article, the focus is on a form of open religiosity that is practiced above all by members of the successor generations.