bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigación formativa en diseño moda a través del proyecto integrador de semestre-PISE
Authors: Zipa Patiño Olga Lucia , Lora Gómez Lida Eugenia , Lizarazo Linares Cielo Andrea , Sepúlveda García Carolina , Alfonso Fandiño Yanira Alejandra , Ruíz Mary Evelin , Caicedo Moreno Christian Camilo
Published: June 2019

Se toma como tema de investigación general “capital animal”; proyectos artísticos y culturales para la defensa de los derechos de los animales, en el cual el programa de Diseño de Modas desarrolló un proceso investigativo desde cada asignatura de diseño, que involucró las asignaturas técnicas; como son las Arquitecturas del Vestido (patronaje y confección); y las de Dibujo e Ilustración. Los semestres II y III orientaron su trabajo hacia la Línea de Investigación de Facultad y de Programa “Patrimonio y Cultura”, los semestres IV, V y VI lo hicieron hacia la Línea “Diseño e Innovación”, y el semestre VII, hacia la Línea “Comunicación Interactiva”. Los sub-temas para cada semestre se apoyaron en los núcleos problémicos de estas líneas, que van desde: saberes e identidad cultural, significados culturales, producción de artefactos hasta el lenguaje y comunicación visual; con el fin de generar un proceso creativo que diera como resultado una colección de moda, materializada en productos visuales e interactivos como un indumento, portafolio y página web.
Cartilla digital régimen sancionatorio
Authors: Beltrán Cardona María Teresa , Castellanos Noreña Natalia , López Londoño Anna Paola , Morales García Leidy Milena , Rodas Restrepo Danna Melissa
Published: June 2019

La Constitución Política de Colombia, en su artículo 93, establece los deberes de los ciudadanos encaminados a la armonía y colaboración ciudadana, velando por los derechos de los ciudadanos. Cada individuo cuenta con una posición en la sociedad y de acuerdo a ello, se le exige un desempeño reglado por la moralidad y la legalidad. Es así como la ley impone sanciones por la conducta de las personas y en cada una de las posiciones en que se ubica, por ello la falta en los deberes de los profesionales es sancionada y que se aplican a los profesionales en derecho se encuentran estipuladas en el Capítulo III de la Ley 1123 de 2017, Código Disciplinario del Abogado.
论机械防干涸地漏在酒店项目中的应用
Authors: 王 智勇
Published: June 2019

随着建筑新产品、新材料的应用越来越多。实际工程运用会面临更多的选择，本文针对某酒店项目，在施工排产中涉及的酒店房淋浴用地漏的选择，从产品结构和规范和等多方面进行分析比较。最后得出结论：机械防干涸地漏不适合酒店的淋浴排水。供类似项目参考。
天津地铁10号线基坑降水相关问题研究
Authors: 杨 明
Published: June 2019

开挖基坑时，如果地下水位过高，如不及时降低水位，不但会使施工条件恶化，造成土壁塌方，亦会影响地基的承载力。严重时甚至会产生流砂现象。因此，在土方施工中，做好施工降水工作，保持土体干燥是十分重要的，同时也改善了工作条件。但降水前，应考虑在降水影响范围内的已有建筑物和构筑物可能产生附加沉降、位移，从而引起开裂、倾斜和倒塌，或引起地面塌陷，必要时应事先采取有效的防护措施。
半成岩富水地层超深管井全过程综合降水方法研究
Authors: 崔 红利
Published: June 2019

在复杂水文地质条件下的城市地铁车站工程降水施工中，通过单井、多井及水位恢复试验获取抽水量、水位降深与抽水延续时间的关系，运用地下水渗流理论模拟反演降水效果，满足降水要求后，综合分析取得该地层渗透系数、影响半径、涌水量等水文参数，进而计算确定降水井结构及布置方案，降水井施工完成后进行降水生产验证试验，经过统计分析验证试验数据，最终明确降水运行管理要点，完成全部降水施工。文章结合青秀山站工程实例，介绍在半成岩富水地层中利用超深管井综合降水方法的全过程施工，取得良好的效果，为类似工程降水施工提供参考与借鉴。
胜利油田海上油水井打捞技术
Authors: 褚 冰川
Published: June 2019

随着生产进入中后期，胜利油田浅海油水井的修井特别是大修打捞作业量在逐渐增多。从对胜利的20多口海上油水井的打捞经验来看，做好对井下管柱情况的认识、打捞工具选择及适应性加工、打捞原则和技术的合理应用对成功打捞至关重要。
边坡工程中滑坡隐患探测方法的应用研究
Authors: 李 松峰
Published: June 2019

随着我国综合实力不断提高，国家基础设施建设不断完善，对于各地人民的统筹规划和共同协调发展势在必行，山区作为各地较为偏远的地域，由于地理环境限制，发展一直处于较为滞后的状态，为了能够达到城乡共同繁荣，以共产党为领导的国家政府曾多次对山区实行大力建设，完善山区路网，促进山区与平原的经济交流，虽然对于山区是一项重大的机遇，但由于在公路或是其他边坡工程的建设当中，山区往往存在大量的地质灾害隐患，例如滑坡等隐患的产生不仅影响当地生态环境，也会造成一定的人身安全和财产安全受到侵害，因此，山区地址灾害应当得到重视，对滑坡隐患进行探测和规避，才能有效避免更多问题的产生。
给排水方式与绿色建筑问题
Authors: 林 丽珊
Published: June 2019

可持续发展战略及低碳环保理念实际影响范围的扩大，为绿色建筑建设创造了有利条件，一定程度上加快了这类建筑的建设步伐。结合当前绿色建筑的实际发展概况，可知其给排水设计与节水效果是否良好，关系着建筑物长期使用中的节能效果，影响着绿色建筑的潜在价值提升。因此，绿色建筑建设中设计人员应运用可靠的设计方法及良好的设计理念加强给排水设计，优化设计方案，并注重节水措施的合理使用，实现对绿色建筑服务功能的不断优化。
A Leap from Negative to Positive Bond. A Step towards Project Sustainability
Authors: Di Maddaloni Francesco , Derakhshan Roya
Published: June 2019

Departing from the normative formulation of stakeholder theory and building upon the current body of knowledge, this study aims to advance understandings on the benefits and challenges towards a more holistic approach to stakeholder management at the local level of major public infrastructure and construction projects (MPIC). Major construction projects, project managers, and the local community stakeholder are deemed to operate within a ‘negative bond’. This interaction is elucidated through the attribution theory lens, which shape the conceptual framework of the study. This paper illustrates that a broader inclusiveness of stakeholder views into managerial decisions can initiate to break this negative bond and shift it towards positive relationships. An organization’s conscious approach towards transparent communication with the local community stakeholder might help to shape a long-term perspective for better project benefits realization either at the national, regional, or local level. By ‘exceeding stakeholders needs and expectations’, project managers and local communities can better collaborate in order to achieve sustainable development over time.
Effects of Rht-B1b and Ddw1 Dwarfing Genes in Two Connecting Populations of Spring Triticale under Greenhouse Experiment Conditions
Authors: Chernook Anastasiya , Kroupin Pavel , Karlov Gennady , Soloviev Alexander , Korshunova Anastasiya , Rubets Valentina , Igonin Vladimir , Divashuk Mikhail
Published: June 2019

Dwarfing genes not only reduce the height of triticale plants, but also have pleiotropic effects on important agronomic traits. An important task for breeding is to evaluate the effects of gibberellin responsive (GAR) and gibberellin-insensitive (GAI) dwarfing genes in one genotype. In the greenhouse experiment, we evaluated the effects of the GAI gene Rht-B1b of wheat and the GAR gene Ddw1 of rye on height and the main agronomic traits in two connecting populations derived from crossing Ddw1 donors (cv. ‘Mudrets’ and cv. ‘Valentin 90’) with a Rht-B1b donor (cv. ‘Dublet’). The results show a strong decrease in height under the influence of Ddw1 in both populations by more than 30%. In this case, Rht-B1b in the presence of Ddw1 does not lead to a significant decrease in the height of the spring triticale; thus, this is not likely to be included in breeding programs in order to further reduce the height in the presence of Ddw1 in the spring triticale germplasm. However, Ddw1 reduces the 1000 grain weight, while Rht-B1b increases the grain number per spike and grain number per spikelet. Thus, our studies have demonstrated the negative effect of Ddw1 on spring triticale productivity of the main spike in the greenhouse experiment, which can be partially compensated by Rht-B1b.
A Review of Soil-Improving Cropping Systems for Soil Salinization
Authors: Cuevas Julián , Daliakopoulos Ioannis N. , del Moral Fernando , Hueso Juan J. , Tsanis Ioannis K.
Published: June 2019

A major challenge of the Sustainable Development Goals linked to Agriculture, Food Security, and Nutrition, under the current global crop production paradigm, is that increasing crop yields often have negative environmental impacts. It is therefore urgent to develop and adopt optimal soil-improving cropping systems (SICS) that can allow us to decouple these system parameters. Soil salinization is a major environmental hazard that limits agricultural potential and is closely linked to agricultural mismanagement and water resources overexploitation, especially in arid climates. Here we review literature seeking to ameliorate the negative effect of soil salinization on crop productivity and conduct a global meta-analysis of 128 paired soil quality and yield observations from 30 studies. In this regard, we compared the effectivity of different SICS that aim to cope with soil salinization across 11 countries, in order to reveal those that are the most promising. The analysis shows that besides case-specific optimization of irrigation and drainage management, combinations of soil amendments, conditioners, and residue management can contribute to significant reductions of soil salinity while significantly increasing crop yields. These results highlight that conservation agriculture can also achieve the higher yields required for upscaling and sustaining crop production.
The Link between Purine Metabolism and Production of Antibiotics in Streptomyces
Authors: Sivapragasam Smitha , Grove Anne
Published: June 2019

Stress and starvation causes bacterial cells to activate the stringent response. This results in down-regulation of energy-requiring processes related to growth, as well as an upregulation of genes associated with survival and stress responses. Guanosine tetra- and pentaphosphates (collectively referred to as (p)ppGpp) are critical for this process. In Gram-positive bacteria, a main function of (p)ppGpp is to limit cellular levels of GTP, one consequence of which is reduced transcription of genes that require GTP as the initiating nucleotide, such as rRNA genes. In Streptomycetes, the stringent response is also linked to complex morphological differentiation and to production of secondary metabolites, including antibiotics. These processes are also influenced by the second messenger c-di-GMP. Since GTP is a substrate for both (p)ppGpp and c-di-GMP, a finely tuned regulation of cellular GTP levels is required to ensure adequate synthesis of these guanosine derivatives. Here, we discuss mechanisms that operate to control guanosine metabolism and how they impinge on the production of antibiotics in Streptomyces species.
Effects and Mechanisms of Tea and Its Bioactive Compounds for the Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular Diseases: An Updated Review
Authors: Cao Shi-Yu , Zhao Cai-Ning , Gan Ren-You , Xu Xiao-Yu , Wei Xin-Lin , Corke Harold , Atanasov Atanas G. , Li Hua-Bin
Published: June 2019

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are critical global public health issues with high morbidity and mortality. Epidemiological studies have revealed that regular tea drinking is inversely associated with the risk of CVDs. Additionally, substantial in vitro and in vivo experimental studies have shown that tea and its bioactive compounds are effective in protecting against CVDs. The relevant mechanisms include reducing blood lipid, alleviating ischemia/reperfusion injury, inhibiting oxidative stress, enhancing endothelial function, attenuating inflammation, and protecting cardiomyocyte function. Moreover, some clinical trials also proved the protective role of tea against CVDs. In order to provide a better understanding of the relationship between tea and CVDs, this review summarizes the effects of tea and its bioactive compounds against CVDs and discusses potential mechanisms of action based on evidence from epidemiological, experimental, and clinical studies.
Automatic Detection and Staging of Lung Tumors using Locational Features and Double-Staged Classifications
Authors: Paing May Phu , Hamamoto Kazuhiko , Tungjitkusolmun Supan , Pintavirooj Chuchart
Published: June 2019

Lung cancer is a life-threatening disease with the highest morbidity and mortality rates of any cancer worldwide. Clinical staging of lung cancer can significantly reduce the mortality rate, because effective treatment options strongly depend on the specific stage of cancer. Unfortunately, manual staging remains a challenge due to the intensive effort required. This paper presents a computer-aided diagnosis (CAD) method for detecting and staging lung cancer from computed tomography (CT) images. This CAD works in three fundamental phases: segmentation, detection, and staging. In the first phase, lung anatomical structures from the input tomography scans are segmented using gray-level thresholding. In the second, the tumor nodules inside the lungs are detected using some extracted features from the segmented tumor candidates. In the last phase, the clinical stages of the detected tumors are defined by extracting locational features. For accurate and robust predictions, our CAD applies a double-staged classification: the first is for the detection of tumors and the second is for staging. In both classification stages, five alternative classifiers, namely the Decision Tree (DT), K-nearest neighbor (KNN), Support Vector Machine (SVM), Ensemble Tree (ET), and Back Propagation Neural Network (BPNN), are applied and compared to ensure high classification performance. The average accuracy levels of 92.8% for detection and 90.6% for staging are achieved using BPNN. Experimental findings reveal that the proposed CAD method provides preferable results compared to previous methods; thus, it is applicable as a clinical diagnostic tool for lung cancer.
Incorporating Concentrating Solar Power into High Renewables Penetrated Power System: A Chance-Constrained Stochastic Unit Commitment Analysis
Authors: Gao Shan , Zhang Yiqing , Liu Yu
Published: June 2019

High renewables penetrated power systems would be greatly influenced by the uncertainty of variable renewable energy such as wind power and photovoltaic power. Unlike wind and photovoltaic plant, concentrating solar power with thermal energy storage has similar dispatchable characteristics as conventional thermal unit. Besides, thermal energy storage could support the coordinated operation of concentrating solar power with an electrical heater, which can be employed to convert surplus electricity in the grid into thermal power stored in thermal energy storage for further utilization. In this paper, concentrating solar power is incorporated into a chance-constrained two-stage stochastic unit commitment model. The model considers the energy and reserve services of concentrating solar power and the uncertainty of renewables. The proposed method is employed to assess the role of a concentrating solar power station with thermal energy storage and an electrical heater to provide grid flexibility in high renewables penetrated power systems. Numerical studies are performed on a modified IEEE 24-bus system to validate the viability of the proposed method for the day-ahead stochastic scheduling. The results demonstrate the economic and reliable value of concentrating solar power station to the improvement of unit commitment schedule, to the mitigation of wind uncertainty and photovoltaic uncertainty, and to the reduction of traditional unit reserve requirement. It is concluded that concentrating solar power with thermal energy storage and an electrical heater is effective in promoting the further penetration of renewables.
Chronic Inflammation as an Immunological Abnormality and Effectiveness of Exercise
Authors: Suzuki Katsuhiko
Published: June 2019

Reduced levels of physical activity in people’s daily lives cause the development of metabolic syndromes or age-related disorders. Chronic inflammation is now understood to be an underlying pathological condition in which inflammatory cells such as neutrophils and monocyte/macrophages infiltrate into fat and other tissues and accumulate when people become obese due to overeating and/or physical inactivity. Pro-inflammatory mediators such as cytokines that are secreted in excess from inflammatory cells will not only lead to the development of arteriosclerosis when they chronically affect blood vessels but also bring tissue degeneration and/or dysfunction to various organs. Chronic inflammation is also involved in sarcopenia that brings hypofunction in the elderly, dementia, osteoporosis, or cancer and negatively affects many chronic diseases and people’s healthy life expectancy. In this paper, outlines of such studies are introduced in terms of homeostatic inflammation, which occurs chronically due to the innate immune system and its abnormalities, while focusing on the efficacy of exercise from aspects of immunology and oxidative stress. The preventative effects of functional food ingredients in combination with exercise are also introduced and described. The challenges and future directions in understanding the role of exercise in the control of chronic inflammation are discussed.
Ramucirumab and GSK1838705A Enhance the Inhibitory Effects of Low Concentration Sorafenib and Regorafenib Combination on HCC Cell Growth and Motility
Authors: D’Alessandro Rosalba , Refolo Maria Grazia , Iacovazzi Palma Aurelia , Pesole Pasqua Letizia , Messa Caterina , Carr Brian Irving
Published: June 2019

Several new multikinase inhibitors have recently been introduced into clinical practice for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) therapy. Small increases in survival were reported as well as considerable toxicity. There is thus a need for effective therapies with lower toxicities. We examined whether a combination of sorafenib and regorafenib might also be effective at very low concentrations, with resulting potential for lessened clinical toxicity. MTT test, clonogenic assay, Ki67 staining and cell cycle analysis were assessed for cell proliferation and Annexin V and western blotting analysis relative to the expression of cleaved Caspase-3 and BID for cell apoptosis. In these experimental conditions cell growth and migration were potently inhibited and apoptosis induced even in HCC cells producing high alpha fetoprotein (AFP) levels (clinically worse prognosis). The combination also inhibited levels of the two HCC biomarkers, AFP and des gamma carboxy prothrombin (DCP). Additional inhibition of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor (VEGFR) or Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 Receptor (IGF1R) enhanced effects on AFP and DCP levels, cell growth inhibition and MAPK and PI3K/Akt signaling inhibition due to sorafenib/regorafenib combination. These combinations have the potential for decreased toxicity while simultaneously enhancing therapeutic effects. This potential decrease in toxicity is being explored in ongoing studies.
Intermittency and Self-Organisation in Turbulence and Statistical Mechanics
Authors: Kim Eun-jin
Published: June 2019

There is overwhelming evidence, from laboratory experiments, observations, and computational studies, that coherent structures can cause intermittent transport, dramatically enhancing transport [...]
The Holistic Approach to Academia: Traditional Classroom Instruction and Experiential Learning of Student-Athletes
Authors: Coffey Lisa , Davis Armani
Published: June 2019

National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) student-athletes represent a unique subculture on college campuses, and the athlete must balance the rigors of coursework, athletics, and the non-traditional dynamics associated with being an athlete, which include “dumb jock” stereotypes, isolation, negative criticism, and the fear associated with athletic retirement. Unlike non-athletes, these students face increasing pressure from outside sources, including family, coaches, and fans, to be the best. However, participation in athletics gives student-athletes an opportunity to learn valuable skills and characteristics that are transferrable to the workplace. This mixed-method research extracted descriptive data to identify the characteristics learned through athletics, the skill-sets potential employers value the most, and how those skills are transferable to the workplace. Those characteristics include refined leadership, communication skills, and an ability to multi-task with a laser-sharp focus. Student-athletes are assertive, driven, understand the concept of teamwork, and handle constructive criticism without adverse reactions. The results show that when student-athletes engage in the classroom and absorb the learning opportunities provided through athletics, student-athletes can have a competitive advantage in the job marketplace.
Comparison of Measured and Calculated Data for NPP Krško CILR Test
Authors: Vlahović Štefica , Šadek Siniša , Grgić Davor , Fancev Tomislav , Benčik Vesna
Published: June 2019

Containment is the last barrier for release of radioactive materials in the case of an accident in the nuclear power plant (NPP). Its overall integrity is tested during a containment integrated leak rate test (CILRT) at the design pressure, at regular intervals. Due to applied risk based licensing, the test intervals can be increased up to once in 10 years and beyond. Taking that into account it is important to prepare the test properly and to use obtained results to assess the real status of the containment. The test can be used to verify existing containment calculation models. There is a potential benefit of verified computer models usage for the explanation of some test results, too. NPP Krško has performed CILRT during the plant outage in 2016. The paper presents a comparison between measured data and results calculated using a multivolume GOTHIC (Generation Of Thermal Hydraulic Information For Containment) model. The test scenario was reproduced using limited available data up to the end of the pressurization phase. The depressurization phase is calculated by the code and measured leakage rate is implemented in the model. Taking into account the necessary adjustments in the model, overall prediction of the measured results (in terms of pressure, temperature and humidity) is very good. In the last phase of the test some non-physical behavior is noticed (without influence on overall test results), probably caused by the combination of air redistribution within the containment and influence of heat transfer to plant systems that were in the operation during the test. GOTHIC model was used to check sensitivity of the predicted pressure (leak rate) to different heat inputs and to investigate the influence that operation of only one reactor containment fan cooler (RCFC) train during pressurization can have on the mixing of air within the containment. In addition, the influence of currently used weighting factors (weighting of measured temperature, relative humidity and pressure data) on the used test methodology is investigated. The possible non-conservative direction of the influence (currently used weighting factors are giving lower leakage rate) was demonstrated and a new set of weighting factors is proposed too.
Mixed Integer Linear Programming Model for Peak Operation of Gas-Fired Generating Units with Disjoint-Prohibited Operating Zones
Authors: Feng Zhongkai , Niu Wenjing , Wang Sen , Cheng Chuntian , Song Zhenguo
Published: June 2019

Due to booming economic development over the past decades, energy demands in most of China’s provincial power grids have increased sharply, and it has become challenging to guarantee the energy balance at peak periods. In many provincial electric systems of China, gas-fired generators are one of the most important peaking power sources to respond the load change at peak periods. To meet this practical necessity, a novel mixed integer linear programming model is proposed in this paper for the peak operation of gas-fired generating units with disjoint-prohibited operating zones. In the developed model, the objective function is chosen to minimize the peak-valley difference of the remaining load series that is obtained by subtracting the total generation of all the gas-fired units from the original load curve. The real-world simulations in several cases show that the developed model is able to generate satisfying scheduling results by reasonably allocating the power outputs of all the gas-fired generators in the scheduling horizon. Then, the management implications obtained lie in the fact that it is necessary to increase the share of peak power sources in the mid- to long-term planning of an electrical power system; and in the daily operation of the power grid, greater flexibility should be given to the gas-fired units to reduce peak pressure.
Derivative-Free Direct Search Optimization Method for Enhancing Performance of Analytical Design Approach-Based Digital Controller for Switching Regulator
Authors: Abbas Ghulam , Nazeer Muhammad Qumar , Balas Valentina E. , Lin Tsung-Chih , Balas Marius M. , Asad Muhammad Usman , Raza Ali , Shehzad Muhammad Naeem , Farooq Umar , Gu Jason
Published: June 2019

Although an analytical design approach-based digital controller—which is essentially a deadbeat controller—shows zero steady-state error and no intersampling oscillations, it takes a finite number of sampling periods to settle down to a steady-state value. This paper describes the application of a derivative-free Nelder–Mead (N–M) simplex method to the digital controller for retuning of its coefficients intelligently to ensure improved settling and rise times without disturbing the deadbeat controller characteristics (i.e., no ripples between the sampling periods and no steady-state error). A switching-mode buck regulator working at 1 MHz in continuous conduction mode (CCM) is considered as a plant. Numerical simulation results depict that the N–M algorithm-based optimized digital controller not only shows improved steady-state and transient performance but also guarantees rigorous robustness against model uncertainty and disturbance as compared to its traditional counterpart, as well as the other optimized digital controller fine-tuned through other derivative-free metaheuristic optimization techniques, such as the genetic algorithm (GA). A system generator-based hardware software co-simulation is also performed to validate the simulation results.
The Design and Deployment of an End-To-End IoT Infrastructure for the Natural Environment
Authors: Nundloll Vatsala , Porter Barry , Blair Gordon S. , Emmett Bridget , Cosby Jack , Jones Davey L. , Chadwick Dave , Winterbourn Ben , Beattie Philip , Dean Graham , Shaw Rory , Shelley Wayne , Brown Mike , Ullah Izhar
Published: June 2019

Internet of Things (IoT) systems have seen recent growth in popularity for city and home environments. We report on the design, deployment, and use of the IoT infrastructure for environmental monitoring and management. Working closely with hydrologists, soil scientists, and animal behaviour scientists, we successfully deployed and utilised a system to deliver integrated information across these two fields in the first such example of real-time multidimensional environmental science. We describe the design of this system; its requirements and operational effectiveness for hydrological, soil, and ethological scientists; and our experiences from building, maintaining, and using the deployment at a remote site in difficult conditions. Based on this experience, we discuss key future work for the IoT community when working in these kinds of environmental deployments.
Accreditation Procedure for Trichinella spp. Detection in Slaughterhouses: The Experience of an Internal Laboratory in Italy
Authors: Schirone Maria , Visciano Pierina , Olivastri Alberto Maria Aldo , Sgalippa Maria Paola , Paparella Antonello
Published: June 2019

Trichinellosis is a severe foodborne zoonotic disease due to the consumption of undercooked meat containing Trichinella spp. larvae. According to Commission Regulation (EU) No 1375/2015, domestic pigs, farmed wild boar, and horses must be tested for the presence of the parasite in the muscles as part of post-mortem examination. In this study, the accreditation procedure and the maintenance of the certificate for internal laboratory attached to a slaughterhouse are described. The main advantages of such accreditation are represented by the possibility to obtain fast results in order to process carcasses quickly, whereas the difficulties for the technician are linked to performing proficiency testing and following training courses. This program can be considered particularly useful for surveillance and food safety purposes.
New Approach Studying Interactions Regarding Trade-Off between Beef Performances and Meat Qualities
Authors: Conanec Alexandre , Picard Brigitte , Durand Denis , Cantalapiedra-Hijar Gonzalo , Chavent Marie , Denoyelle Christophe , Gruffat Dominique , Normand Jérôme , Saracco Jérôme , Ellies-Oury Marie-Pierre
Published: June 2019

The beef cattle industry is facing multiple problems, from the unequal distribution of added value to the poor matching of its product with fast-changing demand. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine the interactions between the main variables, evaluating the nutritional and organoleptic properties of meat and cattle performances, including carcass properties, to assess a new method of managing the trade-off between these four performance goals. For this purpose, each variable evaluating the parameters of interest has been statistically modeled and based on data collected on 30 Blonde d’Aquitaine heifers. The variables were obtained after a statistical pre-treatment (clustering of variables) to reduce the redundancy of the 62 initial variables. The sensitivity analysis evaluated the importance of each independent variable in the models, and a graphical approach completed the analysis of the relationships between the variables. Then, the models were used to generate virtual animals and study the relationships between the nutritional and organoleptic quality. No apparent link between the nutritional and organoleptic properties of meat (r = −0.17) was established, indicating that no important trade-off between these two qualities was needed. The 30 best and worst profiles were selected based on nutritional and organoleptic expectations set by a group of experts from the INRA (French National Institute for Agricultural Research) and Institut de l’Elevage (French Livestock Institute). The comparison between the two extreme profiles showed that heavier and fatter carcasses led to low nutritional and organoleptic quality.
Single Fragment or Bulk Soil DNA Metabarcoding: Which is Better for Characterizing Biological Taxa Found in Surface Soils for Sample Separation?
Authors: Boggs Laura M. , Scheible Melissa K. R. , Machado Gustavo , Meiklejohn Kelly A.
Published: June 2019

In forensic geology casework, sample size typically limits routine characterization of material using bulk approaches. To address this, DNA-based characterization of biological taxa has received attention, as the taxa present can be useful for sample-to-sample comparisons and source attribution. In our initial work, low biodiversity was captured when DNA barcodes were Sanger-sequenced from plant and insect fragments isolated from 10 forensic-type surface soils. Considering some forensic laboratories now have access to massively parallel sequencing platforms, we assessed whether biological taxa present in the same surface soils could be better characterized using DNA metabarcoding. To achieve this, plant and animal barcodes were amplified and sequenced on an Illumina® MiniSeq for three different DNA sample types (n = 50): individual fragments used in our initial study, and 250 and 100 mg of bulk soil (from the 10 sites used in the initial study). A total of 572 unique target barcode sequences passed quality filtering and were used in downstream statistical analyses: 54, 321, and 285 for individual fragments, 100 mg, and 250 mg bulk soil samples, respectively. Plant barcodes permitted some spatial separation of sample sites in non-metric multidimensional scaling plots; better separation was obtained for samples prepared from bulk soil. This study confirmed that bulk soil DNA metabarcoding is a better approach for characterizing biological taxa present in surface soils, which could supplement traditional geologic examinations.
Back to the Future: Using Long-Term Observational and Paleo-Proxy Reconstructions to Improve Model Projections of Antarctic Climate
Authors: Bracegirdle Thomas J. , Colleoni Florence , Abram Nerilie J. , Bertler Nancy A. N. , Dixon Daniel A. , England Mark , Favier Vincent , Fogwill Chris J. , Fyfe John C. , Goodwin Ian , Goosse Hugues , Hobbs Will , Jones Julie M. , Keller Elizabeth D. , Khan Alia L. , Phipps Steven J. , Raphael Marilyn N. , Russell Joellen , Sime Louise , Thomas Elizabeth R. , van den Broeke Michiel R. , Wainer Ilana
Published: June 2019

Quantitative estimates of future Antarctic climate change are derived from numerical global climate models. Evaluation of the reliability of climate model projections involves many lines of evidence on past performance combined with knowledge of the processes that need to be represented. Routine model evaluation is mainly based on the modern observational period, which started with the establishment of a network of Antarctic weather stations in 1957/58. This period is too short to evaluate many fundamental aspects of the Antarctic and Southern Ocean climate system, such as decadal-to-century time-scale climate variability and trends. To help address this gap, we present a new evaluation of potential ways in which long-term observational and paleo-proxy reconstructions may be used, with a particular focus on improving projections. A wide range of data sources and time periods is included, ranging from ship observations of the early 20th century to ice core records spanning hundreds to hundreds of thousands of years to sediment records dating back 34 million years. We conclude that paleo-proxy records and long-term observational datasets are an underused resource in terms of strategies for improving Antarctic climate projections for the 21st century and beyond. We identify priorities and suggest next steps to addressing this.
High Fructose Intake and Adipogenesis
Authors: Hernández-Díazcouder Adrián , Romero-Nava Rodrigo , Carbó Roxana , Sánchez-Lozada L. Gabriela , Sánchez-Muñoz Fausto
Published: June 2019

In modern societies, high fructose intake from sugar-sweetened beverages has contributed to obesity development. In the diet, sucrose and high fructose corn syrup are the main sources of fructose and can be metabolized in the intestine and transported into the systemic circulation. The liver can metabolize around 70% of fructose intake, while the remaining is metabolized by other tissues. Several tissues including adipose tissue express the main fructose transporter GLUT5. In vivo, chronic fructose intake promotes white adipose tissue accumulation through activating adipogenesis. In vitro experiments have also demonstrated that fructose alone induces adipogenesis by several mechanisms, including (1) triglycerides and very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) production by fructose metabolism, (2) the stimulation of glucocorticoid activation by increasing 11β-HSD1 activity, and (3) the promotion of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production through uric acid, NOX and XOR expression, mTORC1 signaling and Ang II induction. Moreover, it has been observed that fructose induces adipogenesis through increased ACE2 expression, which promotes high Ang-(1-7) levels, and through the inhibition of the thermogenic program by regulating Sirt1 and UCP1. Finally, microRNAs may also be involved in regulating adipogenesis in high fructose intake conditions. In this paper, we propose further directions for research in fructose participation in adipogenesis.
Murine Models of Acute Pancreatitis: A Critical Appraisal of Clinical Relevance
Authors: Silva-Vaz Pedro , Abrantes Ana Margarida , Castelo-Branco Miguel , Gouveia António , Botelho Maria Filomena , Tralhão José Guilherme
Published: June 2019

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a severe disease associated with high morbidity and mortality. Clinical studies can provide some data concerning the etiology, pathophysiology, and outcomes of this disease. However, the study of early events and new targeted therapies cannot be performed on humans due to ethical reasons. Experimental murine models can be used in the understanding of the pancreatic inflammation, because they are able to closely mimic the main features of human AP, namely their histologic glandular changes and distant organ failure. These models continue to be important research tools for the reproduction of the etiological, environmental, and genetic factors associated with the pathogenesis of this inflammatory pathology and the exploration of novel therapeutic options. This review provides an overview of several murine models of AP. Furthermore, special focus is made on the most frequently carried out models, the protocols used, and their advantages and limitations. Finally, examples are provided of the use of these models to improve knowledge of the mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis, identify new biomarkers of severity, and develop new targeted therapies.
Photocracking Silica: Tuning the Plasmonic Photothermal Degradation of Mesoporous Silica Encapsulating Gold Nanoparticles for Cargo Release
Authors: Croissant Jonas G. , Guardado-Alvarez Tania M.
Published: June 2019

The degradation of bionanomaterials is essential for medical applications of nanoformulations, but most inorganic-based delivery agents do not biodegrade at controllable rates. In this contribution, we describe the controllable plasmonic photocracking of gold@silica nanoparticles by tuning the power and wavelength of the laser irradiation, or by tuning the size of the encapsulated gold cores. Particles were literally broken to pieces or dissolved from the inside out upon laser excitation of the plasmonic cores. The photothermal cracking of silica, probably analogous to thermal fracturing in glass, was then harnessed to release cargo molecules from gold@silica@polycaprolactone nanovectors. This unique and controllable plasmonic photodegradation has implications for nanomedicine, photopatterning, and sensing applications.
Bile Acid and Fibroblast Growth Factor 19 Regulation in Obese Diabetics, and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease after Sleeve Gastrectomy
Authors: Huang Hsien-Hao , Lee Wei-Jei , Chen Shu-Chun , Chen Tung-Fang , Lee Shou-Dong , Chen Chih-Yen
Published: June 2019

Background: Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is an effective treatment for obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD); however, the mechanism is not completely understood. Bile acids and fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) are involved in the regulation of energy metabolism. Methods: We investigated the roles of total bile acid and FGF 19 in T2DM remission and NAFLD improvement in obese subjects undergoing SG. A total of 18 patients with obesity and T2DM undergoing laparoscopic SG were enrolled in this study. Serial plasma total bile acid and FGF 19 levels were measured, while the fatty liver index was calculated before and after surgery. Results: The FGF 19 level significantly increased, and the total bile acid level and fatty liver index decreased 1 year after surgery. The complete T2DM remission rate was 66.7% one year after surgery; the complete remitters had significantly lower FGF 19 levels and higher insulin levels than the non-complete remitters. The complete remitters also had significantly decreased total bile acid levels and increased FGF 19 levels 1 year after surgery compared with those before surgery. The fatty improvers had significantly decreased total bile acid levels and increased FGF 19 levels 1 year after surgery compared with those before surgery. Conclusion: The total bile acids level and fatty liver index decreased, and the FGF 19 levels increased 1 year after SG. Both T2DM complete remitters and NAFLD improvers showed significantly decreased total bile acid levels and increased FGF 19 levels 1 year after SG. Plasma total bile acids and FGF 19 might have roles in T2DM remission and NAFLD improvement. Low preoperative FGF 19 levels might be a predictor for NAFLD improvement after SG.
High TSH Level within Normal Range Is Associated with Obesity, Dyslipidemia, Hypertension, Inflammation, Hypercoagulability, and the Metabolic Syndrome: A Novel Cardiometabolic Marker
Authors: Chang Yi-Cheng , Hua Shih-Che , Chang Chia-Hsuin , Kao Wei-Yi , Lee Hsiao-Lin , Chuang Lee-Ming , Huang Yen-Tsung , Lai Mei-Shu
Published: June 2019

(1) Background: Overt and subclinical hypothyroidism has been associated with increased cardiometabolic risks. Here we further explore whether thyroid function within normal range is associated with cardiometabolic risk factors in a large population-based study. (2) Methods: We screened 24,765 adults participating in health examinations in Taiwan. Participants were grouped according to high-sensitive thyroid-stimulating hormone (hsTSH) level as: <50th percentile (0.47–1.48 mIU/L, the reference group), 50–60th percentile (1.49–1.68 mIU/L), 60–70th percentile (1.69–1.94 mIU/L), 70–80th percentile (1.95–2.3 mIU/L), 80–90th percentile (2.31–2.93 mIU/L), and >90th percentile (>2.93 mIU/L). Cardiometabolic traits of each percentile were compared with the reference group. (3) Results: Elevated hsTSH levels within normal range were dose-dependently associated with increased body mass index, body fat percentage, waist circumferences, blood pressure, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), fasting insulin, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), high homeostasis model of assessment of beta-cell (HOMA-β), triglycerides, total cholesterols, fibrinogen, and uric acids (p-for-trend <0.001), but not with fasting glucose levels. The association remained significant after adjustment of age, sex, and lifestyle. As compared to the reference group, subjects with the highest hsTSH percentile had significantly increased risk of being overweight (adjusted odds ratio (adjOR): 1.35), increased body fat (adjOR: 1.29), central obesity (adjOR: 1.36), elevated blood pressure (adjOR: 1.26), high HbA1c (adjOR: 1.20), hyperinsulinemia (adjOR: 1.75), increased HOMA-IR (adjOR: 1.45), increased HOMA-β (adjOR: 1.40), hypertriglyceridemia (adjOR: 1.60), hypercholesterolemia (adjOR: 1.25), elevated hsCRP (adjOR: 1.34), increased fibrinogen (adjOR: 1.45), hyperuricemia (adjOR: 1.47), and metabolic syndrome (adjOR: 1.42), but significant risk of low fasting glucose (adjOR: 0.89). Mediation analysis indicates that insulin resistance mediates the majority of the association between thyroid hormone status and the metabolic syndrome. (4) Conclusion: Elevated hsTSH within the normal range is a cardiometabolic risk marker associated with central obesity, insulin resistance, elevated blood pressure, dyslipidemia, hyperuricemia, inflammation, and hypercoagulability.
Evaluation of the Association of Omentin 1 rs2274907 A>T and rs2274908 G>A Gene Polymorphisms with Coronary Artery Disease in Indian Population: A Case Control Study
Authors: Jha Chandan K , Mir Rashid , Elfaki Imadeldin , Javid Jamsheed , Babakr Abdullatif Taha , Banu Shaheena , Chahal S. M. S.
Published: June 2019

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a major cause of death all over the world. CAD is caused by atherosclerosis which is induced by the interaction of genetic factors and environmental factors. Traditional environmental risk factors include hyperlipidemia, diabetes mellitus, lack of exercise, obesity, poor diet and others. Genome-wide association studies have revealed the association of certain gene polymorphisms with susceptibility to CAD. Omentin 1 is an adipokine secreted by the visceral adipose tissues and has been reported to have anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, and enhances insulin sensitivity. In this study, we examined the role of omentin-1 common single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) (rs2274907 A>T and rs2274908 G>A) in CAD. We genotyped 100 CAD patients and 100 matched healthy controls from the south Indian population using an amplification refractory mutation system (ARMS-PCR) and allele-specific PCR (AS-PCR). Our result indicated the rs2274908 G>A is not associated with CAD. Results showed that there was a significant difference in rs2274907 A>T genotype distribution between controls and CAD cases (P-value < 0.05). Results indicated that the AT genotype of the rs2274907 is associated with CAD with OR = 3.0 (95% confidence interval (CI), 1.64 to 5.49), 1.65 (1.27 to 2.163), P = 0.002. The T allele of the rs2274907 was also associated with CAD with OR = 1.82 (95% CI, 1.193 to 2.80), 1.37 (1.08 to 1.74), P = 0.005. Rs2274907 genotype distribution was also correlated with serum total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), hypertension and diabetes. We conclude that the AT genotype and the T allele of the rs2274907 A>T is associated with Cad in the south Indian population. Further studies on the effect of the rs2274907 A>T on omentin-1 function are recommended, and future well-designed studies with larger sample sizes and in different populations are required to validate our findings.
Equity Market Contagion in Return Volatility during Euro Zone and Global Financial Crises: Evidence from FIMACH Model
Authors: Quoreshi A. M. M. Shahiduzzaman , Uddin Reaz , Jienwatcharamongkhol Viroj
Published: June 2019

The current paper studies equity markets for the contagion of squared index returns as a proxy for stock market volatility, which has not been studied earlier. The study examines squared stock index returns of equity in 35 markets, including the US, UK, Euro Zone and BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) countries, as a proxy for the measurement of volatility. Results from the conditional heteroskedasticity long memory model show the evidence of long memory in the squared stock returns of all 35 stock indices studied. Empirical findings show the evidence of contagion during the global financial crisis (GFC) and Euro Zone crisis (EZC). The intensity of contagion varies depending on its sources. This implies that the effects of shocks are not symmetric and may have led to some structural changes. The effect of contagion is also studied by decomposing the level series into explained and unexplained behaviors.
The Sociolinguistic Integration of Immigrant Populations: Reflections on Its Study
Authors: Sancho Pascual María
Published: June 2019

Taking as its main point of departure the research carried out in the Madrid context by the Hispalin-UAH team of the IN.MIGRA2-CM project, the goal of this article is to reflect on the role of the linguistic dimension within the process of the social integration of migrant populations. It trains its sights on the need to work from a cognitive angle which may help to show how those involved in the process construct and re-define the new context, and on the need to consider the host population—as the prime conditioner of the process—and to identify and analyse in depth the components of identity that are modified as a result of cultural contact.
Methodologies for Analyzing Soluble Organic Compounds in Extraterrestrial Samples: Amino Acids, Amines, Monocarboxylic Acids, Aldehydes, and Ketones
Authors: Simkus Danielle N. , Aponte José C. , Elsila Jamie E. , Parker Eric T. , Glavin Daniel P. , Dworkin Jason P.
Published: June 2019

Soluble organic compositions of extraterrestrial samples offer valuable insights into the prebiotic organic chemistry of the solar system. This review provides a summary of the techniques commonly used for analyzing amino acids, amines, monocarboxylic acids, aldehydes, and ketones in extraterrestrial samples. Here, we discuss possible effects of various experimental factors (e.g., extraction protocols, derivatization methods, and chromatographic techniques) in order to highlight potential influences on the results obtained from different methodologies. This detailed summary and assessment of current techniques is intended to serve as a basic guide for selecting methodologies for soluble organic analyses and to emphasize some key considerations for future method development.
Mechanical Behaviour of Stamped Aluminium Alloy Components by Means of Response Surfaces
Authors: Cuesta Isidoro Iván , Almaguer-Zaldivar Pavel Michel , Alegre Jesús Manuel
Published: June 2019

In the automotive industry, the use of stamped aluminium alloy components has become a very common occurrence. For the appropriate design of these components, it is necessary to know how the manufacturing process affects the material properties. In the first place, high plastic strains ( ε p ) can be generated during the stamping process, which can result in a change in the residual stress and mechanical properties in the plastically deformed areas. Furthermore, if a last coat of paint that is usually subjected to a thermal cycle, characterized by temperature ( T ) and exposure time ( t ), is applied, it can also influence mechanical behaviour. Consequently, this paper studies how both processes affect the mechanical behaviour of an aluminium alloy of the 5000 series, commonly used in these types of components. In particular, the mechanical properties such as the yield stress at 0.2% ( σ 0.2 ), the ultimate tensile strength ( s u t ) and the engineering strain at break ( e f ) have been analysed. To achieve this, a response surface technique, based on the design of experiments, has been used. The response surfaces obtained allow for the prediction of mechanical properties σ 0.2 , s u t and e f for any combination of values of t , T and ε p .