bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polymer Injectivity: Investigation of Mechanical Degradation of Enhanced Oil Recovery Polymers Using In-Situ Rheology
Authors: Al-Shakry Badar , Skauge Tormod , Shaker Shiran Behruz , Skauge Arne
Published: December 2018

Water soluble polymers have attracted increasing interest in enhanced oil recovery (EOR) processes, especially polymer flooding. Despite the fact that the flow of polymer in porous medium has been a research subject for many decades with numerous publications, there are still some research areas that need progress. The prediction of polymer injectivity remains elusive. Polymers with similar shear viscosity might have different in-situ rheological behaviors and may be exposed to different degrees of mechanical degradation. Hence, determining polymer in-situ rheological behavior is of great significance for defining its utility. In this study, an investigation of rheological properties and mechanical degradation of different partially hydrolyzed polyacrylamide (HPAM) polymers was performed using Bentheimer sandstone outcrop cores. The results show that HPAM in-situ rheology is different from bulk rheology measured by a rheometer. Specifically, shear thickening behavior occurs at high rates, and near-Newtonian behavior is measured at low rates in porous media. This deviates strongly from the rheometer measurements. Polymer molecular weight and concentration influence its viscoelasticity and subsequently its flow characteristics in porous media. Exposure to mechanical degradation by flow at high rate through porous media leads to significant reduction in shear thickening and thereby improved injectivity. More importantly, the degraded polymer maintained in-situ viscosity at low flow rates indicating that improved injectivity can be achieved without compromising viscosity at reservoir flow rates. This is explained by a reduction in viscoelasticity. Mechanical degradation also leads to reduced residual resistance factor (RRF), especially for high polymer concentrations. For some of the polymer injections, successive degradation (increased degradation with transport length in porous media) was observed. The results presented here may be used to optimize polymer injectivity.
A Real Case of Implementation of the Future 5G City
Authors: Marabissi Dania , Mucchi Lorenzo , Fantacci Romano , Spada Maria Rita , Massimiani Fabio , Fratini Andrea , Cau Giorgio , Yunpeng Jia , Fedele Lucio
Published: December 2018

The fifth generation (5G) of wireless communication systems is considered the key technology to enable a wide range of application scenarios and the effective spreading of the smart city concept. Vertical business use cases, specifically designed for the future 5G city, will have a strong economical and social impact. For this reason, ongoing 5G field trials have to test newly deployed technologies as well as the capability of 5G to create a new digital economy. This paper describes the 5G field trial environment that was launched in Italy at the end of 2017. The aim is to evaluate the capability of the 5G network of supporting innovative services with reference to suitably designed key performance indicators and to evaluate the opportunities offered by these services. Indeed, vertical business use cases, specifically designed for the future 5G city, with a strong economic and social impact, are under implementation and will be evaluated. In particular, the paper provides a detailed description of the deployment of an actual complete integrated 5G network. It shows how 5G is effective enabling technology for a wide range of vertical business and use cases. Indeed, its flexibility allows to satisfy completely different performance requirements of real services. Some preliminary results, obtained during the first phase, are presented for a smart mobility scenario.
Forecasting E-Commerce Products Prices by Combining an Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) Model and Google Trends Data
Authors: Carta Salvatore , Medda Andrea , Pili Alessio , Reforgiato Recupero Diego , Saia Roberto
Published: December 2018

E-commerce is becoming more and more the main instrument for selling goods to the mass market. This led to a growing interest in algorithms and techniques able to predict products future prices, since they allow us to define smart systems able to improve the quality of life by suggesting more affordable goods and services. The joint use of time series, reputation and sentiment analysis clearly represents one important approach to this research issue. In this paper we present Price Probe, a suite of software tools developed to perform forecasting on products’ prices. Its primary aim is to predict the future price trend of products generating a customized forecast through the exploitation of autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model. We experimented the effectiveness of the proposed approach on one of the biggest E-commerce infrastructure in the world: Amazon. We used specific APIs and dedicated crawlers to extract and collect information about products and their related prices over time and, moreover, we extracted information from social media and Google Trends that we used as exogenous features for the ARIMA model. We fine-estimated ARIMA’s parameters and tried the different combinations of the exogenous features and noticed through experimental analysis that the presence of Google Trends information significantly improved the predictions.
Moisture Sorption Models for Fuel Beds of Standing Dead Grass in Alaska
Authors: Miller Eric A.
Published: December 2018

Sorption models were developed to predict the moisture content in fuelbeds of standing dead grass from ambient weather measurements. Intuition suggests that the response time of standing dead grass to diurnal changes in weather is negligible and that moisture content tracks the equilibrium moisture content under most field conditions. This assumption suggests that moisture content could be modelled by empirically fitting coefficients to equations of equilibrium moisture content using field measurements. Here, six equations commonly used in wildland fire management and other industries were fit using 293 measurements of weather and moisture content in standing dead grass from Alaska, U.S.A. Predictors were air temperature and either relative humidity or dewpoint depression. Mean absolute errors of the best three models were approximately 1.16% of moisture content. The models predicted well the moisture content of an independently collected dataset from Canada but less so a set from Australia. The models may be used in wildland fire danger rating and fire behavior prediction systems.
Effect of Multiple Micronutrient Fortification on Physico-Chemical and Sensory Properties of Chhash (Traditional Indian Yogurt-Based Drink)
Authors: Gaur Shashank , Waller Anna W. , Andrade Juan E.
Published: December 2018

Introduction: Micronutrient malnutrition is a persistent problem in India mainly due to low dietary diversity and poor nutrient density of staple foods. The addition of a commercial micronutrient mix in terms of physico-chemical and sensory characteristics was evaluated. Methods: The yogurt prepared with reduce-fat milk (2%), 20 g/L CHN-11 fermentation culture and 12 h incubation (42 °C) was diluted at a rate of 35% to yield a 32 mg/100 mL concentration. The premix provided vitamin A, vitamin D, folic acid, iodine, iron, and zinc oxide to cover ~20–35% recommended RDA (recommended dietary allowance) per serving (250 mL). A three-factorial design, 2 treatments (control and fortified), 3 temperatures (4, 25, and 40 °C) and 4 time points (1, 2, 3 and 6 days), was used to analyze the physico-chemical properties in terms of titratable acidity, pH, color, and viscosity. A discriminatory sensory test (triangle) was performed with college students (n = 58) and mothers with young children (n = 25), who were living in Mehsana, India to evaluate the difference between fortified and non-fortified cooled (4 °C) product. Results: Fortification did not affect most of the physico-chemical properties of chhash. As expected, titratable acidity increased whereas pH decreased with increasing storage time and temperature. Fortified samples showed higher b* values, whereas L* and a* were not affected. Viscosity changed due to temperature and time, but not fortification. Participants could not discriminate between samples in terms of color, aroma, and taste. Conclusion: Fortification of chhash is technically feasible.
Prediction of Agro-Morphological and Nutritional Traits in Ethiopian Mustard Leaves (Brassica Carinata A. Braun) by Visible-Near-Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Martínez-Valdivieso Damián , Font Rafael , Del Río-Celestino Mercedes
Published: December 2018

The particular characteristics of some of the Ethiopian mustard accessions available from seed banks could be used to increase the production and the diversity of products available to consumers and to improve their general quality. The objectives of this study were to determine the genetic variability for agro-morphological (days to first flowering: DFF and leaf pubescence: LP) and nutritional traits (total phenolic content: TPC) among accessions, and to evaluate the potential of near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) to predict these traits in Ethiopian mustard leaves. A great variation was found for the traits evaluated. The reference values were regressed against different spectral transformations by modified partial least-squares (MPLS) regression. The coefficients of determination in cross-validation (R2cv) shown by the equations for DFF, LP and TPC were 0.95, 0.63 and 0.99, respectively. The standard deviation to standard error of cross-validation ratio (RPD), were for these traits, as follows: DFF: 4.52, LP: 1.53 and, TPC: 24.50. These results show that the equations developed for DFF and TPC in Ethiopian mustard, can be predicted with sufficient accuracy for screening purposes and quality control, respectively. In addition, the LP equation can be used to identify those samples with “low”, “medium” and “high” groups. From the study of the mean and deviation standard spectra, and regression vectors of MPLS models it can be concluded that some major cell components, highly participated in modelling the equations for these traits.
Is Meat of Breeder Turkeys so Different from That of Standard Turkeys?
Authors: Chartrin Pascal , Bordeau Thierry , Godet Estelle , Méteau Karine , Gicquel Jean-Christian , Drosnet Estelle , Brière Sylvain , Bourin Marie , Baéza Elisabeth
Published: December 2018

The technological, nutritional, and sensorial quality of breasts and thighs with drumsticks of turkey male and female breeders was characterized by comparison with breasts and thighs with drumsticks of growing male and female turkeys from the Grademaker line (hybrid turkeys, n = 20 birds per sex and per physiological stage). The breeder turkeys were slaughtered at 397 and 410 days of age and 10.42 and 32.67 kg of body weight for the females and males, respectively. The standard turkeys were slaughtered at 75 and 103 days of age and 5.89 and 13.48 kg of body weight for the females and males, respectively. The differences observed between males and females on one hand and between standard and breeder turkeys on the other hand were mainly induced by differences in slaughter ages and sexual dimorphism on body weight. The meat of female breeders had characteristics close to those of female and male standard turkeys, whereas the meat of male breeders was clearly distinguishable, particularly by displaying lower tenderness and water holding capacity.
Quantitative Characterization of Arnicae flos by RP-HPLC-UV and NIR Spectroscopy
Authors: Ivanova Daniela , Deneva Vera , Zheleva-Dimitrova Dimitrina , Balabanova-Bozushka Vesela , Nedeltcheva Daniela , Gevrenova Reneta , Antonov Liudmil
Published: December 2018

The possibility of applying near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy to monitor 13 active components (phenolic acids, flavonoids, and sesquiterpene lactones) in Arnicae flos was studied. The preprocessing of the spectra were performed by using the conventional Golay-Savitzky procedure and the newly developed step-by-step filter. The results obtained show that the step-by-step filter derivatives provide a better signal-to-noise ratio at a lower convolution window. Better calibration for the content of protocatechuic acid, chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, p-cumaric acid, ferulic acid, isoquercitrin, and quercetin were obtained by step-by-step filter derivatives, compared to the direct raw spectra processing and the Golay-Savitzky approach. Although the step-by-step filter substantially reduces the spectral distortion, the convolution procedure leads to loss of spectral points in the red end of the spectral curve. Probably for this reason this approach shows better calibration only in seven of the monitored 13 active components.
X-ray and Radio Observations of the Radio Relic Galaxy Clusters 1RXS J0603.3+4214 and RXC J1053.7+5453
Authors: Takizawa Motokazu
Published: December 2018

We study two galaxy clusters with radio relics, 1RXS J0603.3+4214 and RXC J1053.7+5453, through X-ray and radio observations. Radio relics are diffuse non-thermal radio sources found in outskirts of galaxy clusters. Because of their shape and location, they are thought to be related to cluster merger shocks. The galaxy cluster 1RXS J0603.3+4214 has a well-known linear-shape “toothbrush” radio relic. We investigate the temperature structure across the relic to constrain the Mach number of the associated shock. The results are compared with radio spectral results, which suggest that a simple diffusive shock acceleration model does not hold for this relic. The RXC J1053.7+5453 harbors a standard arc-like relic. We also get the Mach number from the temperature profile. In addition, we found an edge-like structure in the X-ray image between the X-ray peak and relic. We investigate the density and temperature profiles across the edge and found that the structure is likely relevant to not a shock but a contact discontinuity.
The Alkaline Phosphatase (ALPL) Locus Is Associated with B6 Vitamer Levels in CSF and Plasma
Authors: Olde Loohuis Loes M. , Albersen Monique , De Jong Simone , Wu Timothy , Luykx Jurjen J. , Jans Judith J. M. , Verhoeven-Duif Nanda M. , Ophoff Roel A.
Published: December 2018

The active form of vitamin B6, pyridoxal phosphate (PLP), is essential for human metabolism. The brain is dependent on vitamin B6 for its neurotransmitter balance. To obtain insight into the genetic determinants of vitamin B6 homeostasis, we conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) of the B6 vitamers pyridoxal (PL), PLP and the degradation product of vitamin B6, pyridoxic acid (PA). We collected a unique sample set of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and plasma from the same healthy human subjects of Dutch ancestry (n = 493) and included concentrations and ratios in and between these body fluids in our analysis. Based on a multivariate joint analysis of all B6 vitamers and their ratios, we identified a genome-wide significant association at a locus on chromosome 1 containing the ALPL (alkaline phosphatase) gene (minimal p = 7.89 × 10−10, rs1106357, minor allele frequency (MAF) = 0.46), previously associated with vitamin B6 levels in blood. Subjects homozygous for the minor allele showed a 1.4-times-higher ratio between PLP and PL in plasma, and even a 1.6-times-higher ratio between PLP and PL in CSF than subjects homozygous for the major allele. In addition, we observed a suggestive association with the CSF:plasma ratio of PLP on chromosome 15 (minimal p = 7.93 × 10−7, and MAF = 0.06 for rs28789220). Even though this finding is not reaching genome-wide significance, it highlights the potential of our experimental setup for studying transport and metabolism across the blood–CSF barrier. This GWAS of B6 vitamers identifies alkaline phosphatase as a key regulator in human vitamin B6 metabolism in CSF as well as plasma. Furthermore, our results demonstrate the potential of genetic studies of metabolites in plasma and CSF to elucidate biological aspects underlying metabolite generation, transport and degradation.
Is a Combination of Melatonin and Amino Acids Useful to Sarcopenic Elderly Patients? A Randomized Trial
Authors: Rondanelli Mariangela , Peroni Gabriella , Gasparri Clara , Infantino Vittoria , Nichetti Mara , Cuzzoni Giovanni , Spadaccini Daniele , Perna Simone
Published: December 2018

This study evaluated the effectiveness of a 4-week intervention of melatonin and essential aminoacid supplementation on body composition, protein metabolism, strength and inflammation in 159 elderly sarcopenic patients (42/117, men/women), assigned to four groups: isocaloric placebo (P, n = 44), melatonin (M, 1 mg/daily, n = 42), essential amino acids (eAA 4 g/daily, n = 40) or eAA plus melatonin (eAAM, 4 g eAA and 1 mg melatonin/daily, n = 30). Data from body composition (dual X-ray absortiometry (DXA)), strength (handgrip test) and biochemical parameters for the assessment of protein metabolism (albumin) and inflammation (CRP) were collected at baseline and after the 4-week intervention. Compared with P and M, supplementation with eAA plus M increased total fat-free mass (vs. P: +2190 g; p < 0.01; vs. M: +2107 g; p < 0.05). M alone lowered albumin levels (vs. P: −0.39 g; p < 0.01; vs. eAA: −0.47 g; p < 0.01). This data on albumin was confirmed by within-group analysis (M −0.44g; p < 0.001; eAAM: −0.34 p < 0.05). M and eAA seemed to lower the percentage of gynoid fat (p < 0.05) and android fat (p < 0.01). No significant changes in inflammation or strength were reported. A 4-week intervention with eAA plus M together may be effective in enhancing fat-free-mass compared to M and P but not versus eAA. M alone demonstrates a negative effect on albumin level.
Dalmatians and Dacians—Forms of Belonging and Displacement in the Roman Empire
Authors: Hirt Alfred
Published: December 2018

Inspired by the catalyst papers, this essay traces the impact of displacement on existing and emerging identities of groups and individuals which were relocated to ‘frontier’ areas in the aftermath of conflict and conquest by Rome during the reign of emperor Trajan. The Dacian Wars, ending in 106 CE with the conquest of Dacia by Roman armies, not only resulted in the deliberate destruction of settlements and the society of the conquered, but also the removal of young Dacian men by forced recruitment into the Roman army, some serving the emperor in the Eastern Egyptian Desert. In turn, the wealth in gold and silver of the newly established Roman province of Dacia was exploited by mining communities arriving from Dalmatia. As a result of these ‘displacements’ caused by war and the shared experience of mining in the remote mountains of Dacia or guarding roads through the desert east of the Nile, we can trace the emergence of new senses of belonging alongside the retainment of fixed group identities.
Describing, Step by Step, the Shroud Body Image Formation
Authors: Fazio Giovanni , Mandaglio Giuseppe , Anastasi Antonio
Published: December 2018

In the recent past, we introduced a natural mechanism (stochastic) in the literature to explain the image formation on the Linen of Turin by taking into account the yellowed linen fibrils distribution of the Shroud. In our opinion, a weak energy source like the thermal radiation produced by the enveloped corpse yielded on the linen a latent image, ruled by a stochastic process, and made by small bundles of yellowed fibrils. The image on the Shroud is unique and it appeared later than the blood image with its 2D and 3D characteristics. Moreover, a correlation between the density of yellowed fibrils and the cloth-body distance is present, again proving the action of a stochastic process. In this paper, we would like to discuss, step by step, the whole natural process that occurred in the formation of the Shroud body image. In every case, to confirm our hypothesis of Shroud body image formation, it is necessary to perform experimental investigations in the Forensic Medicine area.
Depictions of Shoeprints in Northwest Portugal
Authors: Moreira José , Bettencourt Ana
Published: December 2018

From the end of the 3rd millennium and the beginning of the 2nd millennium BCE, new motifs appear in Northwest Portugal. This corresponds to what one of the authors has called Figurative Art. The engravings of human feet—barefoot or with shoes—fall within this new “style”. This motif is not well known in Northern Portugal, although it has recently been the subject of a synthesis study on the Atlantic façade of this region. Starting from an inventory work, contextualising the several scales of analysis and the theoretical posture that knowledge is simultaneously cumulative and interpretative, this text reveals the shoeprints existing in Northwest Portugal and the interpretations that have been made about them. Currently there are 81 shoeprints in the region, distributed on 18 outcrops, in 17 different sites. This study has made it possible to create two typological subgroups, namely shoeprints with simple soles and with sole and heel. Within each group it was possible to perceive the existence of places with only one or few shoeprints, versus places with many shoeprints and that there are shoeprints of different dimensions and different orientations. The analysis of this data has made it possible to hypothesise that the engraving of these motifs may have arisen at the end of the Chalcolithic, beginning of the Bronze Age, reaching its peak during the latter period and ending at the beginning of the Iron Age. It is also hypothesised that they represent different age groups and that they may relate to pilgrimages or trips that formed part of rites of passage to adulthood, probably of individuals of higher status within a hierarchised society and which occurred at certain times of year, especially during the summer.
Four Wellbeing Patterns and their Antecedents in Millennials at Work
Authors: Abdi Tariku Ayana , Peiró José M. , Ayala Yarid , Zappalà Salvatore
Published: December 2018

Literature suggests that job satisfaction and health are related to each other in a synergic way. However, this might not always be the case, and they may present misaligned relationships. Considering job satisfaction and mental health as indicators of wellbeing at work, we aim to identify four patterns (i.e., satisfied-healthy, unsatisfied-unhealthy, satisfied-unhealthy, and unsatisfied-healthy) and some of their antecedents. In a sample of 783 young Spanish employees, a two-step cluster analysis procedure showed that the unsatisfied-unhealthy pattern was the most frequent (33%), followed by unsatisfied-healthy (26.6%), satisfied-unhealthy (24.8%) and, finally, the satisfied-healthy pattern (14.3%). Moreover, as hypothesized, discriminant analysis suggests that higher levels of job importance and lower levels of role ambiguity mainly differentiate the satisfied-healthy pattern, whereas overqualification and role overload differentiate, respectively, the unsatisfied-healthy and satisfied-unhealthy patterns. Contrary to our expectations, role conflict also characterizes the satisfied-unhealthy pattern. We discuss the practical and theoretical implications of these findings.
Compliance with Tuberculosis Screening in Irregular Immigrants
Authors: Bonvicini Francesca , Cilloni Silvia , Fornaciari Rossano , Casoni Carmen , Marchesi Cristina , Greci Marina , Monici Lucia , Nicolini Fausto , Vinceti Marco
Published: December 2018

Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious public health problem in many regions of the world, especially in the poorest areas. For this reason, screening for active and latent forms must be considered when dealing with high-risk groups such as irregular immigrants in Western countries. We conducted a retrospective cohort study by recruiting subjects aged ≥15 years who underwent a tuberculin skin test at a dedicated National Health Service Centre in a northern Italian province between 1 January 2012 and 31 December 2013. These participants were followed up until 31 December 2016. We aimed at evaluating an experimental protocol for active and latent tuberculosis screening, focusing on patient compliance, feasibility, and capability to detect clinical forms of the disease. We enrolled 368 irregular immigrants, i.e., immigrants not having a valid residence permit and who were therefore not entitled to choose a general practitioner. In total, 90.22% of these completed all the steps for the screening of active TB, while 87.33% also undertook screening for the latent form of the disease. Homelessness, self-reported prostitution, female sex, and employment status adversely affected compliance. Chronic alcohol consumption was associated with increased risk of no beginning or interruption of the procedures. All of the five patients with active TB successfully completed the treatment. Overall, adherence to the screening program was high compared to other studies in immigrants, possibly owing to organizational factors such as the availability of cultural mediators, the network between the different health services, the presence of dedicated nursing staff and a free-of-charge service. In addition, selected vulnerable subgroups should be targeted using tailored screening and follow-up programs.
Emerging Trends and New Developments in Disaster Research after the 2008 Wenchuan Earthquake
Authors: Wang Cailin , Wu Jidong , He Xin , Ye Mengqi , Liu Wenhui , Tang Rumei
Published: December 2018

On the tenth anniversary of the 2008 Wenchuan Earthquake, investigating the evolution of disaster science is worthwhile and can be used to improve the future execution of disaster risk management. Based on more than 55,786 articles on the relative topic of “Disaster” derived from the Web of Science Core Collection from 1999–2017, this study employs CiteSpace and Google Earth to identify and visualize the spatial distribution of publications, bursts of keywords and categories, highly cited references, and interdisciplinary levels and then identify the emerging trends of disaster research over the past 20 years. The results show that the earthquake indeed jumpstarted a massive wave of disaster research around the world and increased international cooperation over the last decade. However, in terms of both the quantity and quality of publications in disaster research fields, China is lagging behind the U.S. and European countries. Moreover, although designing disaster prevention and mitigation strategies is a new popular field of disaster science, geological environment changes and geologic hazards triggered by earthquakes are more popular research topics than disaster emergency and recovery. In addition, the transdisciplinary level of disaster science increased after the earthquake. This interdisciplinary characteristic of disaster science gradually increased in popularity, which demonstrates that people can learn from catastrophes. These emerging trends could serve as a scientific basis to clearly understand disaster science progress over the last 20 years and provide a reference for rapidly identifying frontier issues in disaster science.
Spatial Video Health Risk Mapping in Informal Settlements: Correcting GPS Error
Authors: Curtis Andrew , Bempah Sandra , Ajayakumar Jayakrishnan , Mofleh Dania , Odhiambo Lorriane
Published: December 2018

Informal settlements pose a continuing health concern. While spatial methodologies have proven to be valuable tools to support health interventions, several factors limit their widespread use in these challenging environments. One such technology, spatial video, has been used for fine-scale contextualized mapping. In this paper, we address one of the limitations of the technique: the global positioning system (GPS) coordinate error. More specifically, we show how spatial video coordinate streams can be corrected and synced back to the original video to facilitate risk mapping. Past spatial video collections for the Mathare informal settlement of Kenya are used as an illustration as these data had been previously discarded because of excessive GPS error. This paper will describe the bespoke software that makes these corrections possible, and then will go on to investigate patterns in the coordinate error.
Willingness to Pay for Condoms among Men in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Evans William , Kadirov Kuyosh , Thior Ibou , Ganesan Ramakrishnan , Ulasevich Alec , Deperthes Bidia
Published: December 2018

HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) continue to be among the greatest public health threats worldwide, especially in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Condom use remains an essential intervention to eradicate AIDS, and condom use is now higher than ever. However, free and subsidized condom funding is declining. Research on how to create healthy markets based on willingness to pay for condoms is critically important. This research has three primary aims: (1) willingness of free condom users in five African countries to pay for socially marketed condoms; (2) the relationship between specific population variables and condom brand marketing efforts and willingness to pay; and (3) potential opportunities to improve condom uptake. Nationally representative samples of at least 1200 respondents were collected in Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. We collected data on a range of demographic factors, including condom use, sexual behavior, awareness of condom brands, and willingness to pay. We estimated multivariate linear regression models and found that free condom users are overwhelmingly willing to pay for condoms overall (over 90% in Nigeria) with variability by country. Free users were consistently less willing to pay for condoms if they had a positive identification with their free brand in Kenya and Zimbabwe, suggesting that condom branding is a critical strategy. Ability to pay was negatively correlated with willingness, but users who could not obtain free condoms were willing to pay for them in Kenya and Zimbabwe. In a landscape of declining donor funding, this research suggests opportunities to use scarce funds for important efforts such as campaigns to increase demand, branding of condoms, and coordination with commercial condom manufacturers to build a healthy total market approach for the product. Free condoms remain an important HIV/AIDS prevention tool. Building a robust market for paid condoms in SSA is a public health priority.
Collaborative Immersive Virtual Environments for Education in Geography
Authors: Šašinka Čeněk , Stachoň Zdeněk , Sedlák Michal , Chmelík Jiří , Herman Lukáš , Kubíček Petr , Šašinková Alžběta , Doležal Milan , Tejkl Hynek , Urbánek Tomáš , Svatoňová Hana , Ugwitz Pavel , Juřík Vojtěch
Published: December 2018

Immersive virtual reality (iVR) devices are rapidly becoming an important part of our lives and forming a new way for people to interact with computers and each other. The impact and consequences of this innovative technology have not yet been satisfactory explored. This empirical study investigated the cognitive and social aspects of collaboration in a shared, immersive virtual reality. A unique application for implementing a collaborative immersive virtual environment (CIVE) was developed by our interdisciplinary team as a software solution for educational purposes, with two scenarios for learning about hypsography, i.e., explanations of contour line principles. Both scenarios allow switching between a usual 2D contour map and a 3D model of the corresponding terrain to increase the intelligibility and clarity of the educational content. Gamification principles were also applied to both scenarios to augment user engagement during the completion of tasks. A qualitative research approach was adopted to obtain a deep insight into the lived experience of users in a CIVE. It was thus possible to form a deep understanding of very new subject matter. Twelve pairs of participants were observed during their CIVE experience and then interviewed either in a semistructured interview or a focus group. Data from these three research techniques were analyzed using interpretative phenomenological analysis, which is research method for studying individual experience. Four superordinate themes—with detailed descriptions of experiences shared by numerous participants—emerged as results from the analysis; we called these (1) Appreciation for having a collaborator, (2) The Surprising “Fun with Maps”, (3) Communication as a challenge, and (4) Cognition in two realities. The findings of the study indicate the importance of the social dimension during education in a virtual environment and the effectiveness of dynamic and interactive 3D visualization.
Mutual Expression of ALDH1A1, LOX, and Collagens in Ovarian Cancer Cell Lines as Combined CSCs- and ECM-Related Models of Drug Resistance Development
Authors: Sterzyńska Karolina , Klejewski Andrzej , Wojtowicz Karolina , Świerczewska Monika , Nowacka Marta , Kaźmierczak Dominika , Andrzejewska Małgorzata , Rusek Damian , Brązert Maciej , Brązert Jacek , Nowicki Michał , Januchowski Radosław
Published: December 2018

A major contributor leading to treatment failure of ovarian cancer patients is the drug resistance of cancer cell. CSCs- (cancer stem cells) and ECM (extracellular matrix)-related models of drug resistance are described as independently occurring in cancer cells. Lysyl oxidase (LOX) is another extracellular protein involved in collagen cross-linking and remodeling of extracellular matrix and has been correlated with tumor progression. The expression of LOX, COL1A2, COL3A1, and ALDH1A1 was performed in sensitive (A2780, W1) and resistant to paclitaxel (PAC) (A2780PR1 and W1PR2) and topotecan (TOP) (W1TR) cell lines at the mRNA (real-time PCR analysis) and protein level (Western blot and immunofluorescence analysis). The ALDH1A1 activity was measured with the ALDEFLUOR test and flow cytometry analysis. The protein expression in ovarian cancer tissues was determined by immunohistochemistry. We observed an increased expression of LOX and collagens in PAC and TOP resistant cell lines. Subpopulations of ALDH1A1 positive and negative cells were also noted for examined cell lines. Additionally, the coexpression of LOX with ALDH1A1 and COL1A2 with ALDH1A1 was observed. The expression of LOX, collagens, and ALDH1A1 was also detected in ovarian cancer lesions. In our study LOX, ALDH1A1 and collagens were found to be coordinately expressed by cells resistant to PAC (LOX, ALDH1A1, and COL1A2) or to TOP (LOX and ALDH1A1). This represents the study where molecules related with CSCs (ALDH1A1) and ECM (LOX, collagens) models of drug resistance are described as occurring simultaneously in ovarian cancer cells treated with PAC and TOP.
Impact of pH Modification on Protein Polymerization and Structure–Function Relationships in Potato Protein and Wheat Gluten Composites
Authors: Muneer Faraz , Johansson Eva , Hedenqvist Mikael S. , Plivelic Tomás S. , Kuktaite Ramune
Published: December 2018

Wheat gluten (WG) and potato protein (PP) were modified to a basic pH by NaOH to impact macromolecular and structural properties. Films were processed by compression molding (at 130 and 150 °C) of WG, PP, their chemically modified versions (MWG, MPP) and of their blends in different ratios to study the impact of chemical modification on structure, processing and tensile properties. The modification changed the molecular and secondary structure of both protein powders, through unfolding and re-polymerization, resulting in less cross-linked proteins. The β-sheet formation due to NaOH modification increased for WG and decreased for PP. Processing resulted in cross-linking of the proteins, shown by a decrease in extractability; to a higher degree for WG than for PP, despite higher β-sheet content in PP. Compression molding of MPP resulted in an increase in protein cross-linking and improved maximum stress and extensibility as compared to PP at 130 °C. The highest degree of cross-linking with improved maximum stress and extensibility was found for WG/MPP blends compared to WG/PP and MWG/MPP at 130 °C. To conclude, chemical modification of PP changed the protein structures produced under harsh industrial conditions and made the protein more reactive and attractive for use in bio-based materials processing, no such positive gains were seen for WG.
Identification and Characterization of the EXO70 Gene Family in Polyploid Wheat and Related Species
Authors: Zhao Jia , Zhang Xu , Wan Wentao , Zhang Heng , Liu Jia , Li Mengli , Wang Haiyan , Xiao Jin , Wang Xiue
Published: December 2018

The EXO70 gene family is involved in different biological processes in plants, ranging from plant polar growth to plant immunity. To date, analysis of the EXO70 gene family has been limited in Triticeae species, e.g., hexaploidy Triticum aestivum and its ancestral/related species. By in silico analysis of multiple Triticeae sequence databases, a total of 200 EXO70 members were identified. By homologue cloning approaches, 15 full-length cDNA of EXO70s were cloned from diploid Haynaldia villosa. Phylogenetic relationship analysis of 215 EXO70 members classified them into three groups (EXO70.1, EXO70.2, and EXO70.3) and nine subgroups (EXO70A to EXO70I). The distribution of most EXO70 genes among different species/sub-genomes were collinear, implying their orthologous relationship. The EXO70A subgroup has the most introns (at least five introns), while the remaining seven subgroups have only one intron on average. The expression profiling of EXO70 genes from wheat revealed that 40 wheat EXO70 genes were expressed in at least one tissue (leaf, stem, or root), of which 25 wheat EXO70 genes were in response to at least one biotic stress (stripe rust or powdery mildew) or abiotic stress (drought or heat). Subcellular localization analysis showed that ten EXO70-V proteins had distinct plasma membrane localization, EXO70I1-V showed a distinctive spotted pattern on the membrane. The 15 EXO70-V genes were differentially expressed in three tissue. Apart from EXO70D2-V, the remaining EXO70-V genes were in response to at least one stress (flg22, chitin, powdery mildew, drought, NaCl, heat, or cold) or phytohormones (salicylic acid, methyl jasmonate, ethephon, or abscisic acid) and hydrogen peroxide treatments. This research provides a genome-wide glimpse of the Triticeae EXO70 gene family and those up- or downregulated genes require further validation of their biological roles in response to biotic/abiotic stresses.
The Synergistic Effects of APOE Genotype and Obesity on Alzheimer’s Disease Risk
Authors: Jones Nahdia S. , Rebeck G. William
Published: December 2018

The APOE gene has three common alleles—E2, E3, and E4, with APOE4 being the strongest genetic risk factor for developing Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). Obesity is a global epidemic and contributes to multiple metabolic problems. Obesity is also a risk factor for cognitive decline. Here, we review the effects of APOE4 and obesity on cognition and AD development, independently and together. We describe studies that have associated APOE4 with cognitive deficits and AD, as well as studies that have associated obesity to cognitive deficits and AD. We then describe studies that have examined the effects of obesity and APOE genotypes together, with a focus on APOE4 and high fat diets. Both human studies and rodent models have contributed to understanding the effects of obesity on the different APOE genotypes, and we outline possible underlying mechanisms associated with these effects. Data across approaches support a model in which APOE4 and obesity combine for greater detrimental effects on metabolism and cognition, in ways that are influenced by both age and sex.
Potential of Vitamin E Deficiency, Induced by Inhibition of α-Tocopherol Efflux, in Murine Malaria Infection
Authors: Suzuki Hiroshi , Kume Aiko , Herbas Maria Shirely
Published: December 2018

Although epidemiological and experimental studies have suggested beneficial effects of vitamin E deficiency on malaria infection, it has not been clinically applicable for the treatment of malaria owing to the significant content of vitamin E in our daily food. However, since α-tocopherol transfer protein (α-TTP) has been shown to be a determinant of vitamin E level in circulation, manipulation of α-tocopherol levels by α-TTP inhibition was considered as a potential therapeutic strategy for malaria. Knockout studies in mice indicated that inhibition of α-TTP confers resistance against malaria infections in murines, accompanied by oxidative stress-induced DNA damage in the parasite, arising from vitamin E deficiency. Combination therapy with chloroquine and α-TTP inhibition significantly improved the survival rates in murines with malaria. Thus, clinical application of α-tocopherol deficiency could be possible, provided that α-tocopherol concentration in circulation is reduced. Probucol, a recently found drug, induced α-tocopherol deficiency in circulation and was effective against murine malaria. Currently, treatment of malaria relies on the artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT); however, when mice infected with malarial parasites were treated with probucol and dihydroartemisinin, the beneficial effect of ACT was pronounced. Protective effects of vitamin E deficiency might be extended to manage other parasites in future.
Patterns of Drought Response of 38 WRKY Transcription Factors of Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim.
Authors: Fei Xitong , Hou Lixiu , Shi Jingwei , Yang Tuxi , Liu Yulin , Wei Anzhi
Published: December 2018

The WRKY family of transcription factors (TFs) includes a number of transcription-specific groupings that play important roles in plant growth and development and in plant responses to various stresses. To screen for WRKY transcription factors associated with drought stress in Zanthoxylum bungeanum, a total of 38 ZbWRKY were identified and these were then classified and identified with Arabidopsis WRKY. Using bioinformatics analyses based on the structural characteristics of the conservative domain, 38 WRKY transcription factors were identified and categorized into three groups: Groups I, II, and III. Of these, Group II can be divided into four subgroups: subgroups IIb, IIc, IId, and IIe. No ZbWRKY members of subgroup IIa were found in the sequencing data. In addition, 38 ZbWRKY were identified by real-time PCR to determine the behavior of this family of genes under drought stress. Twelve ZbWRKY transcription factors were found to be significantly upregulated under drought stress and these were identified by relative quantification. As predicted by the STRING website, the results show that the WRKYs are involved in four signaling pathways—the jasmonic acid (JA), the salicylic acid (SA), the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and the ethylene signaling pathways. ZbWRKY33 is the most intense transcription factor in response to drought stress. We predict that WRKY33 binds directly to the ethylene synthesis precursor gene ACS6, to promote ethylene synthesis. Ethylene then binds to the ethylene activator release signal to activate a series of downstream genes for cold stress and osmotic responses. The roles of ZbWRKY transcription factors in drought stress rely on a regulatory network center on the JA signaling pathway.
Heart–Lung–Muscle Anti-SAE Syndrome: An Atypical Severe Combination
Authors: Zamora Elisabet , Seder-Colomina Elena , Holgado Susana , Quirant-Sanchez Bibiana , Mate José Luis , Martínez-Cáceres Eva M. , Casafont Ivette , Bayés-Genís Antoni
Published: December 2018

A 78-year-old man with 3 months of progressive dyspnea, dysphony, dysgeusia, and proximal muscle weakness was diagnosed of probably idiopathic inflammatory myopathy with nonspecific interstitial pneumonia. Variable degrees of atrioventricular block and persistently elevated cardiac enzymes indicated a diagnosis of myocarditis, confirmed with cardiac magnetic resonance imaging and endomyocardial biopsy. A comprehensive immune work-up revealed anti-small ubiquitin-like modifier-1 activating enzyme (anti-SAE) antibody, a novel myositis-specific antibody, previously described mainly with overt cutaneous dermatomyositis and late skeletal muscle manifestations. Here, heart–lung–muscle involvement combined with anti-SAE antibodies was a severe combination.
The Chromatin Remodeler LET-418/Mi2 is Required Cell Non-Autonomously for the Post-Embryonic Development of Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Saudenova Makhabbat , Wicky Chantal
Published: December 2018

Chromatin condition is crucial for the cells to respond to their environment. In C. elegans, post-embryonic development is accompanied by the exit of progenitor cells from quiescence in response to food. The chromatin protein LET-418/Mi2 is required for this transition in development indicating that proper chromatin structure in cells of the freshly hatched larvae is important to respond to food. However, the identity of the tissue or cells where LET-418/Mi2 is required, as well as the developmental signals that it is modulating have not been elucidated. By restoring the activity of LET-418/Mi2 in specific tissues, we demonstrate that its activity in the intestine and the hypodermis is able to promote in a cell non-autonomous manner the exit of blast cells from quiescence and further development. Furthermore, we identify the IIS (insulin/insulin-like growth factor signaling) pathway to be one of the signaling pathways that is conveying LET-418/Mi2 cell non-autonomous effect on development.
Playing in the UEFA Europa League Does Not Adversely Affect English Premier League or La Liga Performance
Authors: Stephens Richard , Bosworth Grant , Shepherd Thomas A.
Published: December 2018

Purpose: This article presents data challenging the widely held but untested view that concurrently playing mid-week Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) Europa League matches adversely affects domestic league performance. Method: Over 16 seasons we compared next-season domestic league performance of the two highest finishing UEFA Europa League qualifying clubs with the two highest finishing non-qualifiers in England and Spain. Results: Clubs concurrently playing UEFA Europa League football showed significantly superior domestic league performance including wins, losses, goals, goal difference and points tally. The number of European matches played was not related to domestic league performance. Conclusions: The absence of prior rigorous analysis including appropriate comparison data has led to the proliferation of a widespread confirmatory bias, defined as the tendency to seek out evidence that backs one’s hunches and to ignore evidence that contradicts them. Based on our evidence, football professionals, journalists, pundits, and fans should consider the UEFA Europa League competition more favorably.
Calculation of the Intermetallic Layer Thickness in Cold Metal Transfer Welding of Aluminum to Steel
Authors: Silvayeh Zahra , Götzinger Bruno , Karner Werner , Hartmann Matthias , Sommitsch Christof
Published: December 2018

The intermetallic layer, which forms at the bonding interface in dissimilar welding of aluminum alloys to steel, is the most important characteristic feature influencing the mechanical properties of the joint. In this work, horizontal butt-welding of thin sheets of aluminum alloy EN AW-6014 T4 and galvanized mild steel DC04 was investigated. In order to predict the thickness of the intermetallic layer based on the main welding process parameters, a numerical model was created using the software package Visual-Environment. This model was validated with cold metal transfer (CMT) welding experiments. Based on the calculated temperature field inside the joint, the evolution of the intermetallic layer was numerically estimated using the software Matlab. The results of these calculations were confirmed by metallographic investigations using an optical microscope, which revealed spatial thickness variations of the intermetallic layer along the bonding interface.