bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mitigación de NaCl por efecto de un bioestimulante en la germinación de Ocimum basilicum L.
Authors: Batista Sánchez Daulemys , Murillo Amador Bernardo , Nieto Garibay Alejandra , Alcaráz Meléndez Lilia , Troyo Diéguez Enrique , Hernández Montiel Luis Guillermo , Ojeda Silvera Carlos Michel
Published: November 2017

Los bioestimulantes vegetales activan el proceso de germinación de las semillas; accionan funciones f isiológicas en las plantas, contienen sustancias propias del metabolismo vegetal, que mejoran el uso de nutrientes y son una opción para mitigar estrés por salinidad. El objetivo del estudio fue evaluar el efecto de un bioestimulante de origen natural (FitoMas-E®), como atenuante de la salinidad en la germinación de las variedades de albahaca (Ocimum basilicum L.) Emily, Napoletano y Nufar. Las semillas se sometieron a concentraciones de NaCl (0, 50, 100 y 150 mM) y dosis de FitoMas-E® (0, 0.5, 1 y 1.5 mL L-1), en un diseño completamente al azar con arreglo factorial con cuatro repeticiones, en condiciones controladas. Se evaluó porcentaje y tasa de germinación, altura de la plántula, longitud de radícula, biomasa fresca y seca de la radícula, biomasa fresca y seca de la parte aérea. Los resultados mostraron que la altura de la planta, longitud de la radícula, biomasa fresca de parte aérea y biomasa seca de la radícula con 150 mM de NaCl fueron las más dañadas. Napoletano y Nufar mostraron longitud de radícula mayor en 0 mM y conforme la concentración de NaCl incrementó, la longitud de radícula disminuyó signif icativamente para las tres variedades. Las plántulas de semillas tratadas con FitoMas-E®, incrementaron longitud de radícula, destacando Napoletano en 1 mL L‑1 y Nufar con 0.5 mL L 1. Napoletano mostró biomasa fresca de parte aérea mayor en 0 mM con 0.5 mL L-1 de FitoMas-E®. Las plántulas de Napoletano de semillas tratadas con 0.5 mL L‑1 de FitoMas-E® incrementaron la biomasa seca de radícula en 0 y 50 mM de NaCl. Se concluye que el FitoMas-E® con dosis de 0.5 y 1 mL L-1 mitiga el efecto del estrés salino de moderado a severo en semillas de albahaca
Revisión de la clasificación de braconidae (1900-2012): Subfamilias en México
Authors: Coronado-Blanco Juana María , Ruíz-Cancino Enrique , Mireles-Cepeda Samuel , Rodríguez-Mota Arely Julieta , Castillo-Flores Patricia Marissa , Ivanovich Khalaim Andrey
Published: November 2017

Los bracónidos son avispas parasitoides que se han utilizado con éxito en muchos programas de control biológico de insectos plaga a nivel mundial. En la presente revisión, se analiza la clasificación de las subfamilias de Braconidae, cuyo cambio ha sido notable durante las últimas dos décadas, también se registran los géneros que cambiaron de subfamilia en ese período. En México se registran actualmente 35 subfamilias (28 en el Museo de la UAT), 318 géneros y 704 especies. Sin embargo, aún existe gran cantidad de especímenes sin identificar en las colecciones de diversas universidades.
Identificación prospectiva de factores en el proceso de gestión ambiental urbana de la “Estación Metro Petare”, Caracas, Venezuela
Authors: Pérez-Macías-de-Zerpa Mildred
Published: November 2017

Los espacios públicos pertenecientes a la Parro­quia Petare, del Municipio Sucre, Región Capital Venezuela, han sido invadidos por el comercio informal, afectando la calidad del ambiente urrbano. El objetivo de esta investigación fue identificar prospectivamente, factores de la gestión ambiental urbana para el rescate de la estación de metro Petare desde el enfoque del desarrollo sostenible. Para ello, se realizaron 28 reuniones de tormenta de ideas con los representantes de los diferentes grupos sociales (80 ciudadanos) que hacen vida en el espacio público estudiado. Primero, se llevaron a cabo 8 reuniones, donde se identificaron los 35 factores de mayor influen­cia desde la perspectiva de los participantes. A partir de estos factores se realizaron 575 en­cuestas en sitio (estación de metro Petare) para establecer la influencia directa de cada uno de los actores en la problemática. Durante 10 reunio­nes realizadas, de acuerdo a los resultados de las encuestas, y aplicando la Técnica de Pareto para evaluar la clasificación directa, se obtuvieron los 16 factores más influyentes. En las últimas 10 reu­niones se aplicaron métodos prospectivos, con el fin de establecer las variables ocultas influyentes para el desarrollo de un plan de recuperación del sitio. Se encontró que tanto la sana interacción social como la restricción de comercio informal, son variables objetivo con gran potencial de via­bilidad, que permitirían la generación de un plan de gestión consensuado, sostenible en el tiempo y viable en el corto y mediano plazo en una sana gobernabilidad del espacio. La conclusión más sobresaliente, fue que la participación ciudada­na orientada a reconocer la variable ambiente, permitió la identificación de factores influyentes de gestión urbana en espacios públicos que, por diferentes razones, han sido vulnerados con actividades no acordes a su función como parte del contexto urbano.
Prácticas de rehabilitación en un ecosistema semiárido, afectado por el establecimiento de un banco de material, en el noreste de México
Authors: Mata-Balderas José Manuel , Treviño-Garza Eduardo Javier , Jiménez-Pérez Javier , Aguirre-Calderón Oscar Alberto , Alanís-Rodríguez Eduardo , Foroughbakhch-Pournavab Rahim
Published: November 2017

El aprovechamiento de materiales a cielo abierto, representa un importante motor de desarrollo económico en el noreste de México, actividad que también ocasiona alteraciones ambientales en los ecosistemas en buen estado de conservación, como son, los cercanos a las mismas Áreas Naturales Protegidas, por lo cual, es necesario la integración de mecanismos de restauración en los procesos productivos. En la presente investigación se establecieron cuatro sitios de evaluación: (1) un área restaurada en el 2003; (2) un área restaurada en el 2008; (3) un sitio testigo en estado de abandono y; (4) un área natural, en el municipio de Ramos Arizpe, Coahuila, México. En las áreas restauradas se crearon taludes con pendiente de 30° y una exposición noreste, y se estableció un programa de reforestación con plantas nativas adultas. En el área testigo no se realizaron prácticas de reforestación y/o rehabilitación posterior a las prácticas de aprovechamiento, y en el área natural no hubo prácticas de aprovechamiento, sirviendo de ecosistema base. El análisis consistió en un muestreo vegetativo simple al azar con cinco repeticiones en cada área, registrándose la evolución para los factores suelo y vegetación en una escala de tiempo. Se encontró un total de 640 individuos, correspondientes a 19 familias y 39 especies, conformados por 14 leñosas, 16 suculentas y 9 herbáceas. Se determinó que las prácticas de restauración de comunidades semiáridas, mediante la incorporación de individuos adultos y la adecuación del relieve, proveen condiciones favorables para la regeneración natural, acciones que promueven la colonización de otras especies en ambientes semiáridos.
A Unique Response to Offenders with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder: Perceptions of the Alexis FASD Justice Program
Authors: Flannigan Katherine , Pei Jacqueline , Rasmussen Carmen , Potts Sandra , O'Riordan Teresa
Published: November 2017

Despite our knowledge that individuals with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) are over-represented and vulnerable in the justice system, there is a critical paucity of research related to supporting offenders with FASD. The Alexis FASD Justice Program (AFJP) is an innovative and multidisciplinary justice program in rural Alberta that uses information from neurocognitive assessments to inform court decisions for adults with suspected FASD. In the current study, the perspectives of AFJP services providers were explored, with the goal of identifying the perceived impacts and challenges of the program. Through two focus groups with a total of 18 participants, four themes were identified: building capacity, humanizing the offender, creating bridges, and moving forward. These themes are discussed in reference to existing recommended practices for working with offenders with FASD, and future avenues for research are identified.
Carbetocin and Oxytocin in the Active Management of third Stage of Labor after Vaginal Birth of Baby
Authors: Barua Hena Rani , Barua Rita Rani , Barua Sushanta , Barua Ajoy Kishore , Begum Kohinoor
Published: November 2017

Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is one of the major contributors to maternal mortality and morbidity worldwide. Active management of the third stage of labor has been proven to be effective in the prevention of PPH. Carbetocin; a long-acting Oxytocin agonist appears to be a promising agent for the prevention of PPH. In this study Carbetocin is used for the active management of third stage of labor to prevent PPH. Two hundred pregnant women from July 2015 to December 2015 at Rangamati Medical College Hospital, Rangamati, Bangladesh were included in this study. The patients were divided into two groups: Group- 1 (100 women) were received 100μg Carbetocin intravenously and group- 2 (100 women) received 10 IU Oxytocin intramuscularly and both doses were single. These uterotonics were injected at anterior shoulder after the delivery of the baby. Significant difference was observed between the Carbetocin and Oxytocin receiving groups regarding amount of blood loss (335.70 ± 117.71 versus 375.12 ± 145.30), PPH (3 % versus 12%), need of use of other uterotonics (18% versus 30%) and the difference in hemoglobin percent before and after delivery (0.58 ± 0.34 versus 0.97± 0.52). All these parameters were lower in Carbetocin group except hemoglobin level which is higher in group- 2 during 24 hours after delivery. Moreover, blood transfusion was not indicated in group- 1. In conclusion, Carbetocin is superior to Oxytocin in prevention of post partum hemorrhage at the third stage of vaginal delivery with minimal homodynamic changes and side effects.Bangladesh Med J. 2017 Jan; 46 (1): 7-10
Effect of Dyslipidaemia on Arrhythmia in Diabetic Patients
Authors: Hoque Shabnam Jahan , Rahman Aparna , Miah Md Babul , Alam Md Zahid , Irfan SM Rezaul , Safdar AMB
Published: November 2017

Dyslipidaemia is an important risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. This cross-sectional study aims to find out the effect of dyslipidaemia on arrhythmia in diabetic patients. A total of sixty (60) diabetic patients, 31 were male and 29 were female, mean age was 59.58±11.38 (range 40 to 84) years with arrhythmia were selected at the department of Cardiology at Bangladesh Institute of Research and Rehabilitation in Diabetes, Endocrine and Metabolic Disorder(BIRDEM) General Hospital, Dhaka over a period of six months from January to July 2014. All the patients were accomplished with 24 hours Holter ECG monitoring, among them 40 were dyslipidaemia with mean age 60.7±13.1years and 20 were without dyslipidaemia with mean age 58±10.3 years (p-value was 0.424). Mean pulse, systolic and diastolic blood pressure were 78±15 (range 55-98) beats/min, 132±20 (range 90-180) mm of Hg and 79±8 (range 60-100) mm of Hg respectively. Mean maximum and minimum heart rate were 114±22 and 57±14 beats respectively. Mean cholesterol level was 222.58±55.51 mg/dl, mean triglyceride 241.26±98.81 mg/dl, LDL 135.53±35.61 mg/dl and HDL 41.46 ±15.46 mg/dl. Mean supraventricular beats in 24 hours was 12031± 4201 with dyslipidaemia and 8522± 2099 without dyslipidaemia which was statistically significant. Mean ventricular beats in 24 hours was 13472 ± 4872 with dyslipidaemia and 8754 ± 2689 without dyslipidaemia which was also statistically significant. Arrhythmia was found more common among diabetic patients having dyslipidaemia than without dyslipidaemia.Bangladesh Med J. 2017 Jan; 46 (1): 20-24
A Study on Factors In fluencing Acne among the Medical Students of Bangladesh
Authors: Saizuddin Md , Hasan Md Shadul , Sen Swapon Kr , Alfazzaman Md , Rahman Mohammad Mujibur , Rahman MM Mafizur , Rahman Md Mujibur
Published: November 2017

It was across sectional study to explore the factors responsible for Acne among the undergraduate medical students in Z.H. Sikder Women's Medical College, Dhaka. In this study, it revealed that 34,38% of respondents were suffering from acne where habit of smoking (32%) , using of cosmetics (36%), taking of fast food (82%) & taking of less water (36%) & premenstrual flare up (66%) are responsible for aggravating & influencing factors for acne. This study further shown that majority (83.63%) of the respondents are suffering from acne in face, 58.18% in pimple stage, 60.00% in grade IV & 38.18% in grade III. BMI has no influence for the causation of acne as it occurs most (66.45%) in the group where BMI is within normal range from 20-24. Among the respondents, scar present in 36% & hyper pigmentation in 24% as they did not maintain personal hygiene properly.Medicine Today 2017 Vol.29(2): 30-32
Correlation of ECG Changes with Coronary Angiographic Findings in Acute Inferior Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Mamun Kazi Shamim Al , Awal Anisul , Murshed AKM Manzur
Published: November 2017

The determination of infarct related artery in acute inferior myocardial infarction is extremely important for the prediction the amount of myocardium at risk and guide decisions regarding urgency of revascularization. Urgent decision may facilitate management and prevention of complication. Our objective was to Identification of the infarct related artery involving either right coronary artery (RCA) or left circumflex artery (LCX) in acute inferior wall myocardial infarction using electrocardiographic criteria and comparing with angiographic finding. This prospective, observational study was done in Chittagong Medical College Hospital from June 2013 to May 2014. A total of 112 Patients with acute inferior myocardial infarction were included in this study. The electrocardiogram of these patients evaluated for ST segment elevation in lead III exceeding that in lead II (i.e. a ratio of ST elevation in lead III/elevation in lead II > 1) and S/R wave ratio > 0.33 plus ST segment depression > 1 mm in lead aVL as a prediction for right coronary artery occlusion. If criteria are negative, LCX obstruction is likely. Coronary angiogram was done within 2-6 weeks in cath lab, department of cardiology, CMCH to identify the culprit artery. The infarct related artery (IRA) was identified from total occlusion or significant stenosis (> 70%) of the RCA or LCX or their major branches, or from arteriographic evidence of intraluminal thrombosis. To minimize the chance of misclassifying the culprit artery, patients with significant stenosis of both the RCA and the LCX were excluded from the study. The study population consisted of 112 patients (94 male and 18 female) with a mean ± SD age of 51 ± 8.6 years. On coronary angiography, the culprit artery was shown to be the RCA in 92 patients and the LCX in 20 patients. It was evident that the degree of ST segment elevation in lead III was significantly higher in right coronary artery group (92 patients) vs left circumflex group (20 patients) 3.16±1.14mm vs 1.35±0.24mm (p<0.001) respectively. While its comparable in lead II 2.18±0.95mm vs 1.7±0.34mm (p>0.05). In respect to leads AVL, we found that deeper ST segment depression was in right coronary artery group as compared to left circumflex group 1.11±0.25mm vs 0.2 ±0.34mm (p<0.001). ECG parameters for implicating the RCA were a higher ST elevation in lead III than lead II (specificity 98%, sensitivity 97%) and an S/R wave ratio > 0.33 plus ST segment depression > 1 mm in lead aVL (specificity 96%, sensitivity 95%). Absence of these criteria was associated with LCX occlusion (specificity 100%, sensitivity 85%). It is possible to predict the culprit artery whether right coronary artery or left circumflex by examining the surface electrocardiography in patients with acute inferior myocardial infarction.Medicine Today 2017 Vol.29(2): 33-37
Pterygium Excision with Autologous Blood Autograft Fixation: Experience of a District Hospital of Bangladesh
Authors: Huda Md Mahmud Ul , Khaleque Sajed Abdul
Published: November 2017

A prospective interventional self-control study to see the outcome of suture less and glue free limbal conjunctival autograft for the management of primary and recurrent pterygium was carried out using patient's own blood as a bio-adhesive to secure the graft in position, in the Department of Ophthalmology, 250 bedded General Hospital Jamalpur from 15.09.16 to 30.11.16 and followed up upto July 2017. A total of 48 cases (44 were primary nasal pterygium and 4 were recurrent pterygium) were included in the study. Regarding type of the pterygium, out of 48 patients 3(6.25%) were grade I, 21(43.75%) were grade II, 13(27.08%) were grade III and 11(22.92%) were grade IV. The mean age of the study population was 32±2 years. The male and female distribution was 18 and 30 respectively. All the eyes followed by bandaging for 24-48 hours and were examined for graft dislodgement, recession, edema sub-conjunctival hemorrhage. Out of 48 eyes only 1 (2.1%) had sub-conjunctival hemorrhage, 2 (4.2%) edema and 3 (6.3%) had graft recession after 24 to 48 hrs of operation. All the complications were resolved 1-2 month. There was no recurrence of pterygium. No recurrence, graft loss or granuloma was recorded. No other complication was noted. Suture less and glue free limbal conjunctival autografting following pterygium excision is an effective and safe option for the management of primary pterygium.Medicine Today 2017 Vol.29(2): 46-50
Considering Maintenance Cost in Unit Commitment Problems
Authors: Park Hyeongon , Park Joonhyung , Park Jong-Young , Heo Jae-Haeng
Published: November 2017

Electric power systems worldwide are receiving an increasing volume of wind power generation (WPG) because of environmental concerns and cost declines associated with technological innovation. To manage the uncertainty of WPG, a system operator must commit sufficient conventional generators to provide an appropriate reserve. At times, frequent start and stop operations are applied to certain generators, which incurs maintenance costs associated with thermal-mechanical fatigue. In this paper, we suggest a comprehensive approach to unit commitment (UC) that considers maintenance cost: the parameters of equivalent start (ES) and equivalent base load hours (EBHs) are adopted in the UC problem to determine optimal generation scheduling. A new formulation for the maintenance cost that can be readily combined with an existing mixed integer linear programming algorithm is presented. The effectiveness of the proposed UC method is verified through simulations based on an IEEE 118-bus test system. The simulation results show that considering maintenance cost in the UC problem effectively restricts frequent start and stop operation scheduling. Furthermore, the operating cost is reduced, the required reserve level is maintained, and the computational time is comparable with that of the conventional UC method.
Between Grief and Grievance: Memories of Jews in France and the Klaus Barbie Trial
Authors: Levine Michael
Published: November 2017

Working between the Amos Gitai film One Day You’ll Understand (2008) and the 1987 Klaus Barbie trial against which it is set, the article explores how the trial marked a decisive turning point in France’s relationship to its wartime past. Of Barbie’s hundreds of crimes, including murder, torture, rape, and deportation, only those of the gravest nature, 41 separate counts of crimes against humanity, were pursued in the French court in Lyon. Not only did the trial raise crucial juridical questions involving the status of victims and the definition of crimes against humanity but, extending into the private sphere, it became the occasion for citizens to address heretofore silenced aspects of their own family histories and conduct trials of a more personal nature. Whereas the law in general seeks to contain historical trauma and to translate it into legal-conscious terminology, it is often the trauma that takes over, transforming the trial into “another scene” (Freud) in which an unmastered past is unwittingly repeated and unconsciously acted out. Such failures of translation, far from being simply legal shortcomings, open a space between grief and grievance, one through which it is possible to explore both how family secrets are disowned from one generation to the next, and how deeply flawed legal proceedings such as the Barbie trial may “release accumulated social toxins” (Kaplan) and thereby expose unaddressed dimensions of French postwar (and -colonial) history.
The Communication, Awareness, Relationships and Empowerment (C.A.R.E.) Model: An Effective Tool for Engaging Urban Communities in Community-Based Participatory Research
Authors: Ceasar Joniqua , Peters-Lawrence Marlene , Mitchell Valerie , Powell-Wiley Tiffany
Published: November 2017

Little is known about recruitment methods for racial/ethnic minority populations from resource-limited areas for community-based health and needs assessments, particularly assessments that incorporate mobile health (mHealth) technology for characterizing physical activity and dietary intake. We examined whether the Communication, Awareness, Relationships and Empowerment (C.A.R.E.) model could reduce challenges recruiting and retaining participants from faith-based organizations in predominantly African American Washington, D.C. communities for a community-based assessment. Employing C.A.R.E. model elements, our diverse research team developed partnerships with churches, health organizations, academic institutions and governmental agencies. Through these partnerships, we cultivated a visible presence at community events, provided cardiovascular health education and remained accessible throughout the research process. Additionally, these relationships led to the creation of a community advisory board (CAB), which influenced the study’s design, implementation, and dissemination. Over thirteen months, 159 individuals were recruited for the study, 99 completed the initial assessment, and 81 used mHealth technology to self-monitor physical activity over 30 days. The culturally and historically sensitive C.A.R.E. model strategically engaged CAB members and study participants. It was essential for success in recruitment and retention of an at-risk, African American population and may be an effective model for researchers hoping to engage racial/ethnic minority populations living in urban communities.
Relationships between Vacant Homes and Food Swamps: A Longitudinal Study of an Urban Food Environment
Authors: Mui Yeeli , Jones-Smith Jessica , Thornton Rachel , Pollack Porter Keshia , Gittelsohn Joel
Published: November 2017

Research indicates that living in neighborhoods with high concentrations of boarded-up vacant homes is associated with premature mortality due to cancer and diabetes, but the mechanism for this relationship is unclear. Boarded-up housing may indirectly impact residents’ health by affecting their food environment. We evaluated the association between changes in vacancy rates and changes in the density of unhealthy food outlets as a proportion of all food outlets, termed the food swamp index, in Baltimore, MD (USA) from 2001 to 2012, using neighborhood fixed-effects linear regression models. Over the study period, the average food swamp index increased from 93.5 to 95.3 percentage points across all neighborhoods. Among non-African American neighborhoods, increases in the vacancy rate were associated with statistically significant decreases in the food swamp index (b = −0.38; 90% CI, −0.64 to −0.12; p-value: 0.015), after accounting for changes in neighborhood SES, racial diversity, and population size. A positive association was found among low-SES neighborhoods (b = 0.15; 90% CI, 0.037 to 0.27; p-value: 0.031). Vacant homes may influence the composition of food outlets in urban neighborhoods. Future research should further elucidate the mechanisms by which more distal, contextual factors, such as boarded-up vacant homes, may affect food choices and diet-related health outcomes.
Spatiotemporal Distribution of U5MR and Their Relationship with Geographic and Socioeconomic Factors in China
Authors: Li Zeng , Fu Jingying , Jiang Dong , Lin Gang , Dong Donglin , Yan Xiaoxi
Published: November 2017

Epidemiological studies conducted around the world have reported that the under-five mortality rate (U5MR) is closely associated with income and educational attainment. However, geographic elements should also remain a major concern in further improving child health issues, since they often play an important role in the survival environment. This study was undertaken to investigate the relationship between the U5MR, geographic, and socioeconomic factors, and to explore the associated spatial variance of the relationship in China using the geographically weighted regression (GWR) model. The results indicate that the space pattern of a high U5MR had been narrowed notably during the period from 2001 to 2010. Nighttime lights (NL) and the digital elevation model (DEM) both have obvious influences on the U5MR, with the NL having a negative impact and DEM having a positive impact. Additionally, the relationship between the NL and DEM varied over space in China. Moreover, the relevance between U5MR and DEM was narrowed in 2010 compared to 2001, which indicates that the development of economic and medical standards can overcome geographical limits.
Associations of Shift Work and Its Duration with Work-Related Injury among Electronics Factory Workers in South Korea
Authors: Ryu Jia , Jung-Choi Kyunghee , Choi Kyung-Hwa , Kwon Ho-Jang , Kang Chungwon , Kim Hyunjoo
Published: November 2017

This study aimed to explore the association between shift work and work-related injuries. We collected data on workers from an electronics factory. This cross-sectional study included 13,610 subjects, who were assessed based on a self-reported questionnaire about their shift work experiences, work-related injuries, and other covariates. Multiple logistic regression models were used to evaluate the associations between shift work and work-related injuries and were estimated using the odds ratio. We found that the current and past shift workers, compared to non-shift workers, were associated with a 2.7- and 1.7-fold higher risk of work-related injury. There was a dose-response relationship between shift work duration and work-related injury among current female shift workers. Shift work increased the risk of work-related injuries, and the impact could be different depending on gender.
GhMAP3K65, a Cotton Raf-Like MAP3K Gene, Enhances Susceptibility to Pathogen Infection and Heat Stress by Negatively Modulating Growth and Development in Transgenic Nicotiana benthamiana
Authors: Zhai Na , Jia Haihong , Liu Dongdong , Liu Shuchang , Ma Manli , Guo Xingqi , Li Han
Published: November 2017

Mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinases (MAP3Ks), the top components of MAPK cascades, modulate many biological processes, such as growth, development and various environmental stresses. Nevertheless, the roles of MAP3Ks remain poorly understood in cotton. In this study, GhMAP3K65 was identified in cotton, and its transcription was inducible by pathogen infection, heat stress, and multiple signalling molecules. Silencing of GhMAP3K65 enhanced resistance to pathogen infection and heat stress in cotton. In contrast, overexpression of GhMAP3K65 enhanced susceptibility to pathogen infection and heat stress in transgenic Nicotiana benthamiana. The expression of defence-associated genes was activated in transgenic N. benthamiana plants after pathogen infection and heat stress, indicating that GhMAP3K65 positively regulates plant defence responses. Nevertheless, transgenic N. benthamiana plants impaired lignin biosynthesis and stomatal immunity in their leaves and repressed vitality of their root systems. In addition, the expression of lignin biosynthesis genes and lignin content were inhibited after pathogen infection and heat stress. Collectively, these results demonstrate that GhMAP3K65 enhances susceptibility to pathogen infection and heat stress by negatively modulating growth and development in transgenic N. benthamiana plants.
The Role of RNF213 4810G>A and 4950G>A Variants in Patients with Moyamoya Disease in Korea
Authors: Park Young , An Hui , Kim Jung , Kim Won , Han In , Kim Ok , Kim Nam , Kim Dong-Seok
Published: November 2017

Although a founder variant of RNF213 4810G>A is a major genetic risk factor for moyamoya disease (MMD) in East Asians, the frequency and disease susceptibility of RNF213 variants remain largely unknown. This study investigated the mutation analysis of RNF213 (4448, 4810, 4863, and 4950) between Korean MMD and healthy controls. We performed a polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis. To identify the association between RNF213 gene polymorphisms and MMD disease, we performed statistical analyses such as multivariable logistic regression and Fisher’s exact test. Genetic data from 117 MMD patients were analyzed and compared with 253 healthy controls. We assessed and compared single nucleotide polymorphisms of RNF213 (4448, 4810, 4863, and 4950) between MMD and control groups. We performed genome-wide association studies to investigate the genetic pathophysiology of MMD. Among the RNF213 variants (4448G>A, 4810G>A, 4863G>A, and 4950G>A), RNF213 4810G>A and 4950G>A variants were more frequent in MMD patients. In a subgroup analysis, the RNF213 4810G>A was more frequent in moyamoya disease, and the comparison with GG+AA genotype was also significantly different in moyamoya patients. These results confirm that RNF213 4810G>A and RNF213 4950G>A were more frequent in MMD patients. We have confirmed that RNF213 4810G>A and 4950G>A are strongly associated with Korean MMD in children and adults as well as for the ischemic and hemorrhagic types.
Ergostane-Type Sterols from King Trumpet Mushroom (Pleurotus eryngii) and Their Inhibitory Effects on Aromatase
Authors: Kikuchi Takashi , Motoyashiki Naoki , Yamada Takeshi , Shibatani Kanae , Ninomiya Kiyofumi , Morikawa Toshio , Tanaka Reiko
Published: November 2017

Two new ergostane-type sterols; (22E)-5α,6α-epoxyergosta-8,14,22-triene-3β,7β-diol (1) and 5α,6α-epoxyergost-8(14)-ene-3β,7α-diol (2) were isolated from the fruiting bodies of king trumpet mushroom (Pleurotus eryngii), along with eight known compounds (3–10). All isolated compounds were evaluated for their inhibitory effects on aromatase. Among them, 4 and 6 exhibited comparable aromatase inhibitory activities to aminoglutethimide.
Role of Galectin-3 in Bone Cell Differentiation, Bone Pathophysiology and Vascular Osteogenesis
Authors: Iacobini Carla , Fantauzzi Claudia Blasetti , Pugliese Giuseppe , Menini Stefano
Published: November 2017

Galectin-3 is expressed in various tissues, including the bone, where it is considered a marker of chondrogenic and osteogenic cell lineages. Galectin-3 protein was found to be increased in the differentiated chondrocytes of the metaphyseal plate cartilage, where it favors chondrocyte survival and cartilage matrix mineralization. It was also shown to be highly expressed in differentiating osteoblasts and osteoclasts, in concomitance with expression of osteogenic markers and Runt-related transcription factor 2 and with the appearance of a mature phenotype. Galectin-3 is expressed also by osteocytes, though its function in these cells has not been fully elucidated. The effects of galectin-3 on bone cells were also investigated in galectin-3 null mice, further supporting its role in all stages of bone biology, from development to remodeling. Galectin-3 was also shown to act as a receptor for advanced glycation endproducts, which have been implicated in age-dependent and diabetes-associated bone fragility. Moreover, its regulatory role in inflammatory bone and joint disorders entitles galectin-3 as a possible therapeutic target. Finally, galectin-3 capacity to commit mesenchymal stem cells to the osteoblastic lineage and to favor transdifferentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells into an osteoblast-like phenotype open a new area of interest in bone and vascular pathologies.
Isolated and Single Pedestrians and Pedestrian Groups on Sidewalks
Authors: Pinna Francesco , Murrau Roberto
Published: November 2017

Walking freedom can define the quality of an urban area, but this freedom is conditioned by various factors. The research objective is to study pedestrian behavior on sidewalks. Data are collected during on site surveys by means of concealed camcorders. For each pedestrian many factors are observed, such as gender, age, direction, distractions, transport of objects, etc., which could influence pedestrian behavior. Data processing allows the identification of mathematical models describing the average pedestrian’s behavior, subdivided for user type (isolated, single, group). In general, the mean walking pedestrian speed decreases depending on user type (in a linear manner if age class grows for isolated pedestrians, while with the square of age for other user types), of gender, and of facing type. Models obtained for the different pedestrian types were compared to understand the differences in speeds, underlining that pedestrian interferences play a significant role in defining behavior and, therefore, speed. The results support the idea that, to define a smooth pedestrian speed as an indicator of the “walkability” of a path, in addition to considering the path and user’s characteristics, it is also necessary to define the type of user for which the infrastructure is designed.
Activity-Aware Physiological Response Prediction Using Wearable Sensors
Authors: Lokare Namita , Zhong Boxuan , Lobaton Edgar
Published: November 2017

Prediction of physiological responses can have a number of applications in the health and medical fields. However, this can be a challenging task due to interdependencies between these responses, physical activities, environmental factors and the individual’s mental state. In this work, we focus on forecasting physiological responses in dynamic scenarios where individuals are performing exercises and complex activities of daily life. We minimize the effect of environmental and physiological factors in order to focus on the effect of physical activities. In particular, we focus on forecasting heart rate and respiratory rate due to their relevance in medical and fitness training. We aim to forecast these physiological responses up to 60 s into the future, study the effect of different predictors that incorporate different sensing modalities and different amounts of historical data and analyze the performance of various strategies for prediction. Activity information is incorporated by clustering the data streams and fitting different predictive models per cluster. The effect of clustering is also studied by performing a hierarchical analysis on the clustering parameter, and we observe that activity clustering does improve the performance in our proposed methodology when predicting physiological response across modalities.
Solution Growth of Two-Dimensional Bi2Se3 Nanosheets for Two-Color All-Optical Switching
Authors: Wu Xinghua , Tan Chao , Wang Qingkai , Guo Yanyan , Wang Dianyuan , Wang Yongqian , Meng Dawei
Published: November 2017

Two-dimensional Bi2Se3 nanosheets with hexagonal shape are synthesized by a solution synthetic route. The Bi2Se3 nanosheets are 120 nm in edge width and 7 nm in thickness. The size of the Bi2Se3 nanosheets can be controlled by choosing different kinds of reducing agents including hydroxylamine and ethylenediamine. Subsequently, we demonstrate a configuration of two-color all-optical switching based on plasma channels effect using the as-synthesized Bi2Se3 nanosheets as an optical media. The signal light can be modulated as two states including dot and ring shape by changing the intensity of control light. The modulated signal light exhibits excellent spatial propagation properties. As a type of interesting optical material, ultrathin two-dimensional Bi2Se3 nanosheets might provide an effective option for photoelectric applications.
Application of an Ultrafine Shearing Method for the Extraction of C-Phycocyanin from Spirulina platensis
Authors: Yu Jianfeng
Published: November 2017

Cell disruption is an important step during the extraction of C-phycocyanin from Spirulina platensis. An ultrafine shearing method is introduced and combined with soaking and ultrasonication to disrupt the cell walls of S. platensis efficiently and economically. Five kinds of cell disruption method, including soaking, ultrasonication, freezing-thawing, soaking-ultrafine shearing and soaking-ultrafine shearing-ultrasonication were applied to break the cell walls of S. platensis. The effectiveness of cell breaking was evaluated based on the yield of the C-phycocyanin. The results show that the maximum C-phycocyanin yield was 9.02%, achieved by the soaking-ultrafine shearing-ultrasonication method, followed by soaking (8.43%), soaking-ultrafine shearing (8.89%), freezing and thawing (8.34%), and soaking-ultrasonication (8.62%). The soaking-ultrafine shearing-ultrasonication method is a novel technique for breaking the cell walls of S. platensis for the extraction of C-phycocyanin.
First Spaceborne SAR-GMTI Experimental Results for the Chinese Gaofen-3 Dual-Channel SAR Sensor
Authors: Wang Chenghao , Liao Guisheng , Zhang Qingjun
Published: November 2017

In spaceborne synthetic aperture radar (SAR) sensors, it is a challenging task to detect ground slow-moving targets against strong clutter background with limited spatial channels and restricted pulse repetition frequency (PRF). In this paper, we evaluate the image-based dual-channel SAR-ground moving target indication (SAR-GMTI) workflow for the Gaofen-3 SAR sensor and analyze the impact of strong azimuth ambiguities on GMTI when the displaced phase center antenna (DPCA) condition is not fully satisfied, which has not been demonstrated yet. An effective sliding window design technique based on system parameters analysis is proposed to deal with azimuth ambiguities and reduce false alarm. In the SAR-GMTI experiments, co-registration, clutter suppression, constant false alarm rate (CFAR) detector, vector velocity estimation and moving target relocation are analyzed and discussed thoroughly. With the real measured data of the Gaofen-3 dual-channel SAR sensor, the GMTI capability of this sensor is demonstrated and the effectiveness of the proposed method is verified.
A Novel Detection Method of Human Serum Albumin Based on the Poly(Thymine)-Templated Copper Nanoparticles
Authors: Chen Mingjian , Xiang Xinying , Wu Kefeng , He Hailun , Chen Hanchun , Ma Changbei
Published: November 2017

In this work, we developed a facile fluorescence method for quantitative detection of human serum albumin (HSA) based on the inhibition of poly(thymine) (poly T)-templated copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) in the presence of HSA. Under normal circumstances, poly T-templated CuNPs can display strong fluorescence with excitation/emission peaks at 340/610 nm. However, in the presence of HSA, it will absorb cupric ion, which will prevent the formation of CuNPs. As a result, the fluorescence intensity will become obviously lower in the presence of HSA. The analyte HSA concentration had a proportional linear relationship with the fluorescence intensity of CuNPs. The detection limit for HSA was 8.2 × 10−8 mol·L−1. Furthermore, it was also successfully employed to determine HSA in biological samples. Thus, this method has potential applications in point-of-care medical diagnosis and biomedical research.
Study and Validation of Eavesdropping Scenarios over a Visible Light Communication Channel
Authors: Marin-Garcia Ignacio , Guerra Victor , Perez-Jimenez Rafael
Published: November 2017

The security and privacy provided by Visible Light Communication (VLC) technologies is an area that has been slightly addressed due to the misconception that, since light does not go through solid objects like walls, VLC-based communications cannot be eavesdropped on by outside observers. As an upcoming technology, VLC is expected to be used in multiple environments were, due to radio frequency RF overuse or limitations, RF solutions cannot or should not be employed. In this work, we study the eavesdropping characteristics of a VLC-based communication. To evaluate these concerns, a two-step process was followed. First, several simulations of a standardly used scenario were run. Later on, experimental tests were performed. Following those tests, the results of the simulations and the experimental tests were analyzed. The results of these simulations and tests seemed to indicate that VLC channels can be eavesdropped on without considerable difficulties. Furthermore, the results showed that sniffing attacks could be performed from areas outside the expected coverage of the VLC infrastructure. Finally, the use of the simulation such as the one implemented in this work to recognize places from which sniffing is possible helps determine the risk for eavesdropping that our VLC-based network has.
Selectivity/Specificity Improvement Strategies in Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy Analysis
Authors: Wang Feng , Cao Shiyu , Yan Ruxia , Wang Zewei , Wang Dan , Yang Haifeng
Published: November 2017

Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is a powerful technique for the discrimination, identification, and potential quantification of certain compounds/organisms. However, its real application is challenging due to the multiple interference from the complicated detection matrix. Therefore, selective/specific detection is crucial for the real application of SERS technique. We summarize in this review five selective/specific detection techniques (chemical reaction, antibody, aptamer, molecularly imprinted polymers and microfluidics), which can be applied for the rapid and reliable selective/specific detection when coupled with SERS technique.
Target Tracking with Sensor Navigation Using Coupled RSS and AoA Measurements
Authors: Tomic Slavisa , Beko Marko , Dinis Rui , Gomes João
Published: November 2017

This work addresses the problem of tracking a signal-emitting mobile target in wireless sensor networks (WSNs) with navigated mobile sensors. The sensors are properly equipped to acquire received signal strength (RSS) and angle of arrival (AoA) measurements from the received signal, while the target transmit power is assumed not known. We start by showing how to linearize the highly non-linear measurement model. Then, by employing a Bayesian approach, we combine the linearized observation model with prior knowledge extracted from the state transition model. Based on the maximum a posteriori (MAP) principle and the Kalman filtering (KF) framework, we propose new MAP and KF algorithms, respectively. We also propose a simple and efficient mobile sensor navigation procedure, which allows us to further enhance the estimation accuracy of our algorithms with a reduced number of sensors. Model flaws, which result in imperfect knowledge about the path loss exponent (PLE) and the true mobile sensors’ locations, are taken into consideration. We have carried out an extensive simulation study, and our results confirm the superiority of the proposed algorithms, as well as the effectiveness of the proposed navigation routine.
Variations in presentation, management, and patient outcomes of urinary tract infection: a prospective four-country primary care observational cohort study
Authors: Butler Christopher C , Francis Nick , Thomas-Jones Emma , Llor Carl , Bongard Emily , Moore Michael , Little Paul , Bates Janine , Lau Mandy , Pickles Timothy , Gal Micaela , Wootton Mandy , Kirby Nigel , Gillespie David , Rumbsy Kate , Brugman Curt , Hood Kerenza , Verheij Theo
Published: November 2017

Background

Regional variations in the presentation of uncomplicated urinary tract infection (UTI) and pathogen sensitivity to antibiotics have been cited as reasons to justify differences in how the infections are managed, which includes the prescription of broad-spectrum antibiotics.

Aim

To describe presentation and management of UTI in primary care settings, and explore the association with patient recovery, taking microbiological findings and case mix into account.

Design and setting

Prospective observational study of females with symptoms of uncomplicated UTI presenting to primary care networks in England, Wales, the Netherlands, and Spain.

Method

Clinicians recorded history, symptom severity, management, and requested mid-stream urine culture. Participants recorded, in a diary, symptom severity each day for 14 days. Time to recovery was compared between patient characteristics and between countries using two-level Cox proportional hazards models, with patients nested within practices.

Results

In total, 797 females attending primary care networks in England (n = 246, 30.9% of cohort), Wales (n = 213, 26.7%), the Netherlands (n = 133, 16.7%), and Spain (n = 205, 25.7%) were included. In total, 259 (35.8%, 95% confidence interval 32.3 to 39.2) of 726 females for whom there was a result were urine culture positive for UTI. Pathogens and antibiotic sensitivities were similar. Empirical antibiotics were prescribed for 95.1% in England, 92.9% in Wales, 95.1% in Spain, and 59.4% in the Netherlands There were no meaningful differences at a country network level before and after controlling for severity, prior UTIs, and antibiotic prescribing.

Conclusion

Variation in presentation and management of uncomplicated UTI at a country primary care network level is clinically unwarranted and highlights a lack of consensus concerning optimal symptom control and antibiotic prescribing.
Predictive values of referrals for transient ischaemic attack from first-contact health care: a systematic review
Authors: Kandiyali Rebecca , Lasserson Daniel S , Whiting Penny , Richards Alison , Mant Jonathan
Published: November 2017

Background

Over 150 000 cases of suspected transient ischaemic attack (TIA) are referred to outpatient clinics in England each year. The majority of referrals are made by GPs.

Aim

This study aimed to identify how many patients referred to a TIA clinic actually have TIA (that is, calculate the positive predictive value [PPV] of first-contact healthcare referral) and to record the alternative diagnoses in patients without TIA, in order to determine the optimal service model for patients with suspected TIA.

Design and setting

A systematic review of TIA clinic referrals from first-contact health professionals (GPs and emergency department [ED] doctors) was undertaken.

Method

Four databases were searched using terms for TIA and diagnostic accuracy. Data on the number of patients referred to a TIA clinic who actually had a TIA (PPVs) were extracted. Frequencies of differential diagnoses were recorded, where reported. Study quality was assessed using the QUADAS-2 tool.

Results

Nineteen studies were included and reported sufficient information on referrals from GPs and ED doctors to derive PPVs (n = 15 935 referrals). PPVs for TIA ranged from 12.9% to 72.5%. A formal meta-analysis was not conducted due to heterogeneity across studies. Of those not diagnosed with TIA, approximately half of the final diagnoses were of neurological or cardiovascular conditions.

Conclusion

This study highlights the variation in prevalence of true vascular events in patients referred to TIA clinics. For patients without a cerebrovascular diagnosis, the high prevalence of conditions that also require specialist investigations and management are an additional burden on a care pathway that is primarily designed to prevent recurrent stroke. Service commissioners need to assess whether the existing outpatient provision is optimal for people with pathologies other than cerebrovascular disease.