bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hijerarhijsko strukturiranje ekspertnog modela za poduku skijaškog osnovnog zavoja / Hierarchical Classification Metodical Model for Teaching Basic Ski Turn
Authors: Kuna Danijela , Džajić Sanjin
Published: November 2017

With the goal to form the hierarchical classification of the most important methodical exercises for teaching basic ski turn in ski schools and test differences between ski experts based on their different level of skiing education, there was conducted a survey on the total sample of 307 ski experts from different countries. Through the filling out the online survey they tried to distinguish the importance of the formed model of the most important methodical exercises for teaching basic ski turn. Expert model of the most important methodical exercises captured 6 variables: uphill turn and jumping into snowplough, basic turn with hand sideways, basic turn with clapping, ski poles in front, ski poles on neck, uphill turn with active ski guiding. In order to investigate the statistic meaning of differences in ranking the methodical exercises for teaching basic ski turn, participants are divided into three groups based on the degree of skiing education they posses. In relation to above mentioned, sums of ranks (∑R) of the most important methodical exercises for teaching basic ski turn have been calculated. Using non-parametric analogue post-hoc analysis, i.e. Kruskal-Wallis test (H-test) and appropriate empiric level of significance (p), statistic significance of sums of ranks (∑R) of the most important methodical exercises for teaching basic ski turn have been tested. Significant difference between the value of ranking the most methodical exercises have been obtained (H=138,62; p<0,001). Those variables which were not different in statistically significant way according to sums of rank were classified in one significant group, while variables which showed statistically significant difference were classified separately. Multiple statistically significant difference based on different degree ski education between the ski experts were not obvious. The results of this study provide an accurate and scientifically based methodological settings for teaching basic ski turn. This opens the directions for future research in the form of construction of measuring instruments whose application in practice should allow better selection and choice of modalities methodical exercises for training alpine skiers of different ages and levels of ski prior knowledge.
Razlike u zdravstvenim pokazateljima kod nogometaša mlađih i starijih od 30 godina / Differences in health indicators in football players younger and older than 30 years
Authors: Grgurinović Tonći , Sindik Joško
Published: November 2017

Numerous studies show that wide range of anthropological characteristics and health indicators significantly affects the success in football. Therefore, constant monitoring of these indicators provides to the coaches the information useful for the planning of the training process, adjusted to concrete athletes. This study explores selected morphological, physiological characteristics and health (MPH) indicators of adult football players of various levels of sporting excellence. The aim of the study was to determine the differences in MPH indicators, as well as their correlation, stratified according to the age group of the athletes. The different profiles of players were identified, in relation to selected MPH indicators. A sample of 813 male players is examined, 362 in the age group 17-30 years (M±SD 21.48±3.51) and 451 aged over 30 years (43.84±9.17), from Zagreb football clubs, included in medical examination at the Clinic for Occupational Health and Sport. Several differences in MPH are found between two age groups, mainly in direction more desirable features in younger age group. The results provide important information for planning training, but also for health prevention measures.
Psychological Sporting Talent and Indicators of Mental Health at Young Male and Female Handball Players // Psihološki talent i obilježja mentalnog zdravlja kod rukometaša i rukometašica
Authors: Paušek Katarina , Paušek Drago , Sertić Damir , Missoni Saša , Sindik Joško
Published: November 2017

The main goal of the research is to determine gender differences in the subscales within Multidimensional Scale of Sports’ Psychological Talents (MSSPT): Mental Energy Scale (MES), Modified Big Five Inventory (MBFI), Modified Short Hardiness Scale (MSHS), Modified Athletic Engagement Scale (MAES), Modified Athletic Identity Scale (MAIS), Psychological Skills Inventory for Sports (MPSIS) and Modified Optimism Scale (OS)-R. The samples of 105 male (M) and 54 female (F) handball players were examined (age range 12-16 years), members of the teams Prvo plinarsko društvo, Metalac (Zagreb) and Zamet (Rijeka) (M); Zamet (Rijeka) and Samobor (F), in the beginning of 2015. The results revealed that six statistically significant gender differences are found: enthusiasm and motivation (higher means for females), extraversion, resilience, self-confidence and concentration (higher means for males). The results provide the information about possible differentiated approach of the coaches when working with male and female handball players.
Influence of Angular Values of Body Segments on the Distance of the Throw Out In (Z) Axis // Uticaj uglovnih vrijednosti segmenata tijela na dužinu izbačaja kugle u projekciji (z) ose
Authors: Bajrić Osmo , Biberović Alija , Saračević Zlatan , Mikić Branimir
Published: November 2017

This research was carried out on atop atlete, representative of Bosnia and Herzegovina, with the aim of determining the significance and magnitude of the angle value impact (A) of the body segments in the projection (Z) or the sphere length of the sphere 0.1 s before the spit.When selecting variables, it was taken into account that they satisfy the basic metric characteristics (validity, relievability, objectivity, sensitivity ...) and that they are aligned with the technology and instrumentation used to capture and determine their kinematic parameters. In order to determine the magnitude and size of the influence of kinematic parameters of the individual shot put elements (A) in the projection (Z) or 0.1 s before the ball spout (predictor set of variables) on the length (range) of the sphere (criterion variable), regression analysis was used. The regression results of the analysis indicate that there is a statistically significant influence of the angle position (A) of the body segments in the projection (X) or the length of the sphere 0.1 s before the throw-out.Analysis of the influence of individual variables of the angular position (A) in the axis (Z), shows that the most statistically positive impact on the criterion variable length in the ejection time of 0.1 seconds before ejection has a variable angular position of the left shoulder of the level of the seventh cervical vertebra ( AzLC7R). The time span up to 0.1 seconds before the angular position of the left shoulder to the level of the seventh cervical vertebra to the axis (Z) there is as a result of the angular connection (A) of movement in the vertical extension expressed body axis (Z) relative to the projection of the moment of casting and reconciliation.
Motor Achievements Differences In Basketball for Junior High School Students // Razlike motoričkih dostignuća u košarci kod učenika osnovne škole
Authors: Džajić Sanjin , Kuna Danijela
Published: November 2017

The aim of this research has been determination of differences in motor achievements in basketball for junior high school students. This research involved 280 participants, male gender, devided in four subsamples each of them 70 participants. Each subsample has represented one grade between 6th-9th grade. Motor achievements test in basketball have estimated achievements using five tests, which have required application of catching and passing, dribbling and shooting on basket techniques. For data processing analysis of variance (ANOVA) has been used, while post hoc analysis Bonferroni method has been used for determining the partial differences between subsamples. Partial differences have been proved in motor achievemnets test of catching and passing in set position, catching and passing in movement, as well as dribbling in slalom and shooting on basket in 30 sec , while in shooting on basket from different positions in 60 sec test those differences have not been proved. Using post hoc analysis has been confirmed that in most tests there have been no differences between subsamples of 6th and 7th, as well as between 8th and 9th grade. There is existance of deffernces between younger and older tested subsamples due to higher level of motor skills, which has been developed by teaching process and developement of motor abilities, on the other hand which have been influenced by faster growing and developing process, that has been especially noticable in older tested subsamples. Lack of significant differences between the results in 6th and 7 th, 8th and 9th grade indicates necessity of longer involvment in teaching process in order to have significant changes in features, among others motor skills and motor abilities, which contribute to better results in tested variables. Better effects of teaching process can be expected if we analyze implementation plan and program, which includes assessment of presented teaching contains during the classes and which methodical organisation forms of work have been implemented, as well as evaluation of implemented plan and program in order to get feedback about success of implementation.
Developmental neuroscience in the function of sensory and perceptual development of children // Razvojna neuronauka u funkciji senzornog i perceptivnog razvoja dece
Authors: Lazić Svetlana
Published: November 2017

This paper seeks to explore the role of developmental neuroscience in the context of sensory and perceptual development of young children. Nurseries are places that provide conditions for such a development through nurturing as a part of educational process. Sensory and perceptual development makes a basis to which different sensory impressions, woven into social experience and mental reworking, are added so that they make perception. Nursery workers are of great importance in a child’s life and they have to be seen as people who are capable of recognizing children’s feelings, of “getting to them”, guiding them and providing them with contents that will lead to the fulfillment of all of their potentials.
Transcriptomic and proteomic landscape of mitochondrial dysfunction reveals secondary coenzyme Q deficiency in mammals
Authors: Kühl Inge , Miranda Maria , Atanassov Ilian , Kuznetsova Irina , Hinze Yvonne , Mourier Arnaud , Filipovska Aleksandra , Larsson Nils-Göran
Published: November 2017

Dysfunction of the oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) system is a major cause of human disease and the cellular consequences are highly complex. Here, we present comparative analyses of mitochondrial proteomes, cellular transcriptomes and targeted metabolomics of five knockout mouse strains deficient in essential factors required for mitochondrial DNA gene expression, leading to OXPHOS dysfunction. Moreover, we describe sequential protein changes during post-natal development and progressive OXPHOS dysfunction in time course analyses in control mice and a middle lifespan knockout, respectively. Very unexpectedly, we identify a new response pathway to OXPHOS dysfunction in which the intra-mitochondrial synthesis of coenzyme Q (ubiquinone, Q) and Q levels are profoundly decreased, pointing towards novel possibilities for therapy. Our extensive omics analyses provide a high-quality resource of altered gene expression patterns under severe OXPHOS deficiency comparing several mouse models, that will deepen our understanding, open avenues for research and provide an important reference for diagnosis and treatment.
The ultimate legs of Chilopoda (Myriapoda): a review on their morphological disparity and functional variability
Authors: Kenning Matthes , Müller Carsten H.G. , Sombke Andy
Published: November 2017

The arthropodium is the key innovation of arthropods. Its various modifications are the outcome of multiple evolutionary transformations, and the foundation of nearly endless functional possibilities. In contrast to hexapods, crustaceans, and even chelicerates, the spectrum of evolutionary transformations of myriapod arthropodia is insufficiently documented and rarely scrutinized. Among Myriapoda, Chilopoda (centipedes) are characterized by their venomous forcipules—evolutionarily transformed walking legs of the first trunk segment. In addition, the posterior end of the centipedes’ body, in particular the ultimate legs, exhibits a remarkable morphological heterogeneity. Not participating in locomotion, they hold a vast functional diversity. In many centipede species, elongation and annulation in combination with an augmentation of sensory structures indicates a functional shift towards a sensory appendage. In other species, thickening, widening and reinforcement with a multitude of cuticular protuberances and glandular systems suggests a role in both attack and defense. Moreover, sexual dimorphic characteristics indicate that centipede ultimate legs play a pivotal role in intraspecific communication, mate finding and courtship behavior. We address ambiguous identifications and designations of podomeres in order to point out controversial aspects of homology and homonymy. We provide a broad summary of descriptions, illustrations, ideas and observations published in past 160 years, and propose that studying centipede ultimate legs is not only essential in itself for filling gaps of knowledge in descriptive morphology, but also provides an opportunity to explore diverse pathways of leg transformations within Myriapoda.
North Atlantic Oscillation drives the annual occurrence of an isolated, peripheral population of the brown seaweedFucus guiryiin the Western Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Melero-Jiménez Ignacio J. , Salvo A. Enrique , Báez José C. , Bañares-España Elena , Reul Andreas , Flores-Moya Antonio
Published: November 2017

The canopy-forming, intertidal brown (Phaeophyceae) seaweedFucus guiryiis distributed along the cold-temperate and warm-temperate coasts of Europe and North Africa. Curiously, an isolated population develops at Punta Calaburras (Alboran Sea, Western Mediterranean) but thalli are not present in midsummer every year, unlike the closest (ca. 80 km), perennial populations at the Strait of Gibraltar. The persistence of the alga at Punta Calaburras could be due to the growth of resilient, microscopic stages as well as the arrival of few–celled stages originating from neighbouring localities, and transported by the permanent Atlantic Jet flowing from the Atlantic Ocean into the Mediterranean. A twenty-six year time series (from 1990 to 2015) of midsummer occurrence ofF. guiryithalli at Punta Calaburras has been analysed by correlating with oceanographic (sea surface temperature, an estimator of the Atlantic Jet power) and climatic factors (air temperature, rainfall, and North Atlantic Oscillation –NAO-, and Arctic Oscillation –AO- indexes). The midsummer occurrence of thalli clustered from 1990–1994 and 1999–2004, with sporadic occurrences in 2006 and 2011. Binary logistic regression showed that the occurrence of thalli at Punta Calaburras in midsummer is favoured under positive NAO index from April to June. It has been hypothesized that isolated population ofF. guiryishould show greater stress than their congeners of permanent populations, and to this end, two approaches were used to evaluate stress: one based on the integrated response during ontogeny (developmental instability, based on measurements of the fractal branching pattern of algal thalli) and another based on the photosynthetic response. Although significant differences were detected in photosynthetic quantum yield and water loss under emersion conditions, with thalli from Punta Calaburras being more affected by emersion than those from Tarifa, the developmental instability showed that the population from Tarifa suffers higher stress during ontogeny than that from Punta Calaburras. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the teleconnection between atmospheric oscillations and survival and proliferation of marine macroalgae.
Living Donor Liver Transplantation in a Highly Allo-Sensitized Recipient: Confusing Influence of Rituximab on the Lymphocytotoxicity Crossmatch Test. A Case Report
Authors: Matsumoto Takatsugu , Aoki Taku , Iso Yukihiro , Kato Masato , Yuseki Kohichi , Kobata Tetsuji , Kubota Keiichi
Published: November 2017

Objective: We report a successful living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) from donor (husband) to highly allo-sensitized recipient (wife) against donor-adopting sufficient preoperative preparation. Methods: A 47-year-old woman with primary biliary cirrhosis was referred to our hospital as a potential candidate of LDLT. Her husband was willing to donate his hemiliver. As the lymphocytotoxicity crossmatch (LCT-XM) test based on a complement-dependent cytotoxicity and flow panel reactive antibody (PRA) test revealed that the patient had strong donor-specific anti-HLA antibody, the patient received rituximab twice for preoperative desensitization. A total of 5 rounds of plasmapheresis were also performed. Results: Nevertheless, the LCT-XM test 9 days after the administration of rituximab did not turn to negative while flow PRA test was almost negative. Suspecting that residual rituximab in the recipient's serum might interfere with the LCT-XM test because of its potential ability to activate the complement, we retried the test after absorbing rituximab from the serum with immunomagnetic bead. Conclusion: The result: The LCT-XM test turned to negative, suggesting that the desensitization therapy was adequate. A left liver graft was transplanted as planned, and the postoperative course was uneventful. The patient is doing well 12 months after transplantation.
Everolimus for treatment of tuberous sclerosis complex‐associated neuropsychiatric disorders
Authors: Krueger Darcy A. , Sadhwani Anjali , Byars Anna W. , de Vries Petrus J. , Franz David N. , Whittemore Vicky H. , Filip‐Dhima Rajna , Murray Donna , Kapur Kush , Sahin Mustafa
Published: November 2017

Objective

To evaluate if short‐term treatment with everolimus was safe and could improve neurocognition and behavior in children withTSC.

Methods

This was a prospective, double‐blind randomized, placebo‐controlled two‐center phaseIIstudy. Participants diagnosed withTSCand age 6–21 years were treated with 4.5 mg/m2per day of oral everolimus (n = 32) or matching placebo (n = 15) taken once daily for 6 months. For efficacy, a comprehensive neurocognitive and behavioral evaluation battery was performed at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months. For safety, adverse events recorded continuously via patient diary were categorized and graded perNCICommon Toxicity Criteria for Adverse Events, version 3.0 (CTCAE3.0). Analyses were performed on the intention‐to‐treat population (n = 47).

Results

Nearly all assessment measures failed to demonstrate significant differences between the two groups at the end of 6 months. Only one measure each of executive function (Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery Stockings of Cambridge) favoring placebo (P = 0.025) and social cognition (Social Responsiveness Scale Social Cognition Subscale) favoring everolimus (P = 0.011) was observed. A total of 473 adverse events (AE) were reported. The average number of totalAEper subject was similar for both placebo and everolimus. Most were mild or moderate in severity and seriousAEwere rare.

Interpretation

While safe, oral everolimus administered once daily for 6 months did not significantly improve neurocognitive functioning or behavior in children withTSC.
Co‐occurring medical conditions in adults with Down syndrome: A systematic review toward the development of health care guidelines
Authors: Capone George T. , Chicoine Brian , Bulova Peter , Stephens Mary , Hart Sarah , Crissman Blythe , Videlefsky Andrea , Myers Katherine , Roizen Nancy , Esbensen Anna , Peterson Moya , Santoro Stephanie , Woodward Jason , Martin Barry , Smith David ,   for the Down Syndrome Medical Interest Group DSMIG‐USA Adult Health Care Workgroup
Published: November 2017

Adults with Down syndrome (DS) represent a unique population who are in need of clinical guidelines to address their medical care. The United States Preventive Service Task Force (USPSTF) has developed criteria for prioritizing conditions of public health importance with the potential for providing screening recommendations to improve clinical care. The quality of existing evidence needed to inform clinical guidelines has not been previously reviewed. Using the National Library of Medicine (NLM) database PubMed, we first identified 18 peer reviewed articles that addressed co‐occurring medical conditions in adults with DS. Those conditions discussed in over half of the articles were prioritized for further review. Second, we performed detailed literature searches on these specific conditions. To inform the search strategy and review process a series of key questions were formulated a priori. The quality of available evidence was then graded and knowledge gaps were identified. The number of participating adults and the design of clinical studies varied by condition and were often inadequate for answering all of our key questions. We provide data on thyroid disease, cervical spine disease, hearing impairment, overweight‐obesity, sleep apnea, congenital heart disease, and osteopenia‐osteoporosis. Minimal evidence demonstrates massive gaps in our clinical knowledge that compromises clinical decision‐making and management of these medically complex individuals. The development of evidence‐based clinical guidance will require an expanded clinical knowledge‐base in order to move forward.
Effects of the electrolyte content on the electrical permittivity, thermal stability, and optical dispersion of poly(vinyl alcohol)–cesium copper oxide–lithium perchlorate nanocomposite solid‐polymer electrolytes
Authors: Al‐Gunaid Murad Q. A. , Saeed Adel M. N. , Siddaramaiah
Published: November 2017

Solid‐polymer electrolytes (SPEs) in the form of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) doped with various amounts (5, 10, and 15 wt %) of lithium perchlorate trihydrate (LiClO4·3H2O) and 2 wt % cesium copper oxide (Cs2CuO2) nanoparticles were fabricated by a solvent intercalation method. The obtained nanocomposites were evaluated for their chemical structure and microstructural and morphological behaviors via Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy methods, respectively. The obtained dielectric behaviors, alternating‐current conductivity, dielectric modulus, and dielectric relaxation of the SPEs depended on the volume fraction of the electrolyte. Linear behavior of the current–voltage characteristics for all of the SPE films was observed with a slight deviation at a higher voltage. The thermal behaviors of the PVA–Cs2CuO2–LiClO4 films were evaluated by differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis. The refractive index, band‐gap energy, and optical dispersion were examined with UV–visible spectroscopy. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 45852.
The role of radical polymerization in the production of thermoregulating microcapsules or polymers from saturated and unsaturated fatty acids
Authors: Szczotok Anna M. , Carmona Manuel , Kjøniksen Anna‐Lena , Rodriguez Juan F.
Published: November 2017

The microencapsulation of linoleic (LinA), oleic, erucic, and palmitic acids (PAs) from styrene and divinylbenzene were studied by using the suspension‐like polymerization technique. All materials exhibited a spherical shape, with a particle size between 166 and 416 μm. The phase change material (PCM) content decreased with the presence of double bonds in the fatty acid molecule. The thermal energy storage (TES) capacity of the microcapsules (MC) containing saturated PA was the highest (123.30 J g−1). Whereas, the lowest TES capacity was observed for the LinA. TES capacity values from unsaturated fatty acid materials and the high particle yield indicated that these kinds of acids played two different roles, as PCM and also as monomers, in the radical polymerization processes. At high initiator concentrations, the unsaturated fatty acids were observed to react. This was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared where the peak assigned to the CC bond disappears in the spectrum of MC. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 45970.
Electroconductive and catalytic performance of polypyrrole/montmorillonite/silver composites synthesized through in situ oxidative polymerization
Authors: Tran Xuan Tin , Park Sung Soo , Hussain Manwar , Kim Hee Taik
Published: November 2017

The present study demonstrates a simple approach to the formation of polypyrrole/montmorillonite/silver (PPy/Mt/Ag) composites via in situ oxidative polymerization of pyrrole (Py) in the presence of AgNO3 acting as a direct oxidant. The polymerization was performed in the presence of dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid, which acts as a stabilizing and doping agent. The morphological, structural, and thermal properties of PPy/Mt/Ag composites are discussed in detail and a possible formation mechanism is proposed. The electrical conductivities of the composites pressed at different pressing pressures were investigated using four‐probe analyzer. X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy results indicated the partially exfoliated structure of the composites and Fourier transforms infrared results suggested the strong interactions between SiOSi groups in Mt and NH groups in PPy chains. The addition of Mt in the PPy polymer enhanced thermal property of the polymer. The conductivity of 1.08 S cm−1 was observed in the sample with 20 wt % Mt loading and applied pressure of 5 MPa. The composites obtained in the present study catalyze the reduction of methylene blue by sodium borohydride, achieving 92% conversion of MB to colorless within a few minutes. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 45986.
Trajectories of resting frontal brain activity and psychopathology in female adolescents exposed to child maltreatment
Authors: Tang Alva , Miskovic Vladimir , Lahat Ayelet , Tanaka Masako , MacMillan Harriet , Van Lieshout Ryan J. , Schmidt Louis A.
Published: November 2017

Resting frontal electroencephalogram (EEG) alpha asymmetry patterns reflecting different affective and motivational tendencies have been proposed as a putative mechanism underlying resilience among maltreated youth. This 2‐year prospective study examined whether developmental stability of resting frontal alpha asymmetry moderated the relation between child maltreatment severity and psychopathology in female adolescents (n = 43; ages 12–16) recruited from child protection agencies. Results identified two trajectories of resting frontal asymmetry: 60.5% displayed stable right and 39.5% displayed stable left frontal alpha asymmetry. Although individuals with these alpha asymmetry profiles experienced comparable childhood trauma severity, adolescents with stable left alpha asymmetry and lower levels of trauma were less likely to present symptoms or an episode of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression over 2 years than those with stable right alpha asymmetry and lower levels of trauma. These findings suggest that developmental patterns of resting left frontal brain activity may buffer against psychopathology in maltreated female youth.
Using population viability analysis, genomics, and habitat suitability to forecast future population patterns of Little OwlAthene noctuaacross Europe
Authors: Andersen Line Holm , Sunde Peter , Pellegrino Irene , Loeschcke Volker , Pertoldi Cino
Published: November 2017

The agricultural scene has changed over the past decades, resulting in a declining population trend in many species. It is therefore important to determine the factors that the individual species depend on in order to understand their decline. The landscape changes have also resulted in habitat fragmentation, turning once continuous populations into metapopulations. It is thus increasingly important to estimate both the number of individuals it takes to create a genetically viable population and the population trend. Here, population viability analysis and habitat suitability modeling were used to estimate population viability and future prospects across Europe of the Little OwlAthene noctua, a widespread species associated with agricultural landscapes. The results show a high risk of population declines over the coming 100 years, especially toward the north of Europe, whereas populations toward the southeastern part of Europe have a greater probability of persistence. In order to be considered genetically viable, individual populations must count 1,000–30,000 individuals. As Little Owl populations of several countries count <30,000, and many isolated populations in northern Europe count <1,000 individuals, management actions resulting in exchange of individuals between populations or even countries are probably necessary to prevent losing <1% genetic diversity over a 100‐year period. At a continental scale, a habitat suitability analysis suggested Little Owl to be affected positively by increasing temperatures and urban areas, whereas an increased tree cover, an increasing annual rainfall, grassland, and sparsely vegetated areas affect the presence of the owl negatively. However, the low predictive power of the habitat suitability model suggests that habitat suitability might be better explained at a smaller scale.
In situ production of active vitamin B12 in cereal matrices using Propionibacterium freudenreichii
Authors: Chamlagain Bhawani , Sugito Tessa A. , Deptula Paulina , Edelmann Minnamari , Kariluoto Susanna , Varmanen Pekka , Piironen Vieno
Published: November 2017

The in situ production of active vitamin B12 was investigated in aqueous cereal‐based matrices with three strains of food‐grade Propionibacterium freudenreichii. Matrices prepared from malted barley flour (33% w/v; BM), barley flour (6%; BF), and wheat aleurone (15%; AM) were fermented. The effect of cobalt and the lower ligand 5,6‐dimethylbenzimidazole (DMBI) or its natural precursors (riboflavin and nicotinamide) on active B12 production was evaluated. Active B12 production was confirmed by UHPLC–UV–MS analysis. A B12 content of 12–37 μg·kg−1 was produced in BM; this content increased 10‐fold with cobalt and reached 940–1,480 μg·kg−1 with both cobalt and DMBI. With riboflavin and nicotinamide, B12 production in cobalt‐supplemented BM increased to 712 μg·kg−1. Approximately, 10 μg·kg−1 was achieved in BF and AM and was increased to 80 μg·kg−1 in BF and 260 μg·kg−1 in AM with cobalt and DMBI. The UHPLC and microbiological assay (MBA) results agreed when both cobalt and DMBI or riboflavin and nicotinamide were supplemented. However, MBA gave ca. 20%–40% higher results in BM and AM supplemented with cobalt, indicating the presence of human inactive analogues, such as pseudovitamin B12. This study demonstrates that cereal products can be naturally fortified with active B12 to a nutritionally relevant level by fermenting with P. freudenreichii.
Visual evaluation of sliced Italian salami by image analysis
Authors: Romano Annalisa , Masi Paolo , Cavella Silvana
Published: November 2017

Visual inspection is an important part of quality control not only for manufacturers but also for retailers and consumers. The object of this investigation was to determine fat content in sliced salami by means of image analysis. The image analysis procedure is applied to digital images of sliced Italian salami produced in 16 different salami factories (A–P). The image analysis method described in this work is nondestructive and the necessary equipment is cheap. It extracts directly interpretable parameters of fat particle morphology (e.g., area, roundness) and number of fat particles from 15 digital images for each sample (A–P). The correlations between the fat features extracted from the images with the chemical fat content measured on the samples were also studied. Good relationships were found between the fat particle characteristics measured by image analysis procedure and the percentage of chemically extractable fat by correlation (R2=0.75) and principal component analysis.
Synthesis of thermo‐responsive bovine hemoglobin imprinted nanoparticles by combining ionic liquid immobilization with aqueous precipitation polymerization
Authors: Wang Yongmei , Yang Chongchong , Sun Yan , Qiu Fengtao , Xiang Yang , Fu Guoqi
Published: November 2017

Surface molecular imprinting over functionalized nanoparticles has proved to be an effective approach for construction of artificial nanomaterials for protein recognition. Herein, we report a strategy for synthesis of core–shell protein‐imprinted nanoparticles by the functionalization of nano‐cores with ionic liquids followed by aqueous precipitation polymerization to build thermo‐responsive imprinted polymer nano‐shells. The immobilized ionic liquids can form multiple interactions with the protein template. The polymerization process can produce thermo‐reversible physical crosslinks, which are advantageous to enhancing imprinting and facilitating template removal. With bovine hemoglobin as a model template, the imprinted nanoparticles showed temperature‐sensitivity in both dispersion behaviors and rebinding capacities. Compared with the ionic‐liquid‐modified core nanoparticles, the imprinted particles exhibited greatly increased selectivity and two orders of magnitude higher binding affinity for the template protein. The imprinted nanoparticles achieved relatively high imprinting factor up to 5.0 and specific rebinding capacity of 67.7 mg/g, respectively. These nanoparticles also demonstrated rapid rebinding kinetics and good reproducibility after five cycles of adsorption–regeneration. Therefore, the presented approach may be viable for the fabrication of high‐performance protein‐imprinted nanoparticles with temperature sensitivity.
Mass spectrometry‐based metabolomics: Targeting the crosstalk between gut microbiota and brain in neurodegenerative disorders
Authors: Luan Hemi , Wang Xian , Cai Zongwei
Published: November 2017

Metabolomics seeks to take a “snapshot” in a time of the levels, activities, regulation and interactions of all small molecule metabolites in response to a biological system with genetic or environmental changes. The emerging development in mass spectrometry technologies has shown promise in the discovery and quantitation of neuroactive small molecule metabolites associated with gut microbiota and brain. Significant progress has been made recently in the characterization of intermediate role of small molecule metabolites linked to neural development and neurodegenerative disorder, showing its potential in understanding the crosstalk between gut microbiota and the host brain. More evidence reveals that small molecule metabolites may play a critical role in mediating microbial effects on neurotransmission and disease development. Mass spectrometry‐based metabolomics is uniquely suitable for obtaining the metabolic signals in bidirectional communication between gut microbiota and brain. In this review, we summarized major mass spectrometry technologies including liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry, gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry, and imaging mass spectrometry for metabolomics studies of neurodegenerative disorders. We also reviewed the recent advances in the identification of new metabolites by mass spectrometry and metabolic pathways involved in the connection of intestinal microbiota and brain. These metabolic pathways allowed the microbiota to impact the regular function of the brain, which can in turn affect the composition of microbiota via the neurotransmitter substances. The dysfunctional interaction of this crosstalk connects neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease and Huntington's disease. The mass spectrometry‐based metabolomics analysis provides information for targeting dysfunctional pathways of small molecule metabolites in the development of the neurodegenerative diseases, which may be valuable for the investigation of underlying mechanism of therapeutic strategies.
Proteogenomic Re‐Annotation of Coccidioides posadasii Strain Silveira
Authors: Mitchell Natalie M. , Sherrard Andrew L. , Dasari Surendra , Magee D. Mitchell , Grys Thomas E. , Lake Douglas F.
Published: November 2017

The aims of this study are to provide protein‐based evidence upon which to reannotate the genome of Coccidiodes posadasii, one of two closely related species of Coccidioides, a dimorphic fungal pathogen that causes coccidioidomycosis, also called Valley fever. Proteins present in lysates and filtrates of in vitro grown mycelia and parasitic phase spherules from C. posadasii strain Silveira are analyzed using a GeLC‐MS/MS method. Acquired spectra are processed with a proteogenomics workflow comprising a Silveira proteome database, a six‐frame translation of the Silveira genome and an ab initio gene prediction tool prior to validation against published ESTs. This study provides evidence for 837 genes expressed at the protein level, of which 169 proteins (20.2%) are putative proteins and 103 (12.3%) are not annotated in the Silveira genome. Additionally, 275 novel peptides are derived from intragenic regions of the genome and 13 from intergenic regions, resulting in 172 gene refinements. Additionally, we are the first group to report translationally active retrotransposon elements in a Coccidioides spp. Our study reveals that the currently annotated genome of C. posadasii str. Silveira needs refinement, which is likely to be the case for many nonmodel organisms.
Novel findings in relation to multiple anti‐atherosclerotic effects of XueZhiKang in humans
Authors: Xu Rui‐Xia , Zhang Yan , Guo Yuan‐Lin , Ma Chun‐Yan , Yao Yu‐Hong , Li Sha , Li Xiao‐Lin , Qing Ping , Gao Ying , Wu Na‐Qiong , Zhu Cheng‐Gang , Liu Geng , Dong Qian , Sun Jing , Li Jian‐Jun
Published: November 2017

Background

Previous studies have clearly demonstrated that XueZhiKang (XZK), an extract of cholestin, can decrease low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) and cardiovascular events. However, the mechanism of the effects of XZK on atherosclerosis (AS) in humans has been reported less frequently. In the present study, we investigated the impact of XZK on lipoprotein subfractions, oxidized LDL (oxLDL), and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6).

Methods

From October 2015 to July 2016, 40 subjects were enrolled in this study. Of them, 20 subjects with dyslipidemia received XZK 1200 mg/day for 8 weeks (XZK group); 20 additional healthy subjects who did not receive therapy acted as controls. The plasma lipoprotein subfractions, oxLDL, and IL‐6 were examined at baseline and again at 8 weeks.

Results

Data showed that XZK could significantly decrease not only plasma LDL‐C levels (87.26 ± 24.45 vs. 123.34 ± 23.99, P < 0.001), total cholesterol (4.14 ± 0.87 vs. 5.08 ± 1.03, P < 0.001), triglycerides (0.95 ± 0.38 vs. 1.55 ± 0.61, P < 0.05), and apolipoprotein B (1.70 ± 0.35 vs. 1.81 ± 0.72, P < 0.05), but also oxLDL (36.36 ± 5.31 vs. 49.20 ± 15.01, P < 0.05) and IL‐6 (8.50 ± 7.40 vs. 10.40 ± 9.49, P < 0.05). At the same time, XZK reduced the concentration of small LDL‐C (1.78 ± 2.17 vs. 6.33 ± 7.78, P < 0.05) and the percentage of the small LDL subfraction (1.09 ± 1.12 vs. 3.07 ± 3.09, P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Treatment with 1200 mg/day XZK for 8 weeks significantly decreased the atherogenic small LDL subfraction and reduced oxidative stress and inflammatory markers, in addition to affecting the lipid profile, suggesting multiple beneficial effects in coronary artery disease.
Factors Affecting Mortality and Hospital Admissions after Hip Surgery among Elderly Patients with Hip Fracture in Hong Kong – Review of a Three-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Wang Apple Qiao-Ling , Ng Bobby Hin-Po , Cheung Lydia Po-Chee , Chin Raymond Ping-Hong
Published: November 2017

Objective

Hip fracture is associated with excess mortalities and high rate of hospital re-admission after discharge from the indexed episode. To improve related post-discharge care, we aimed to find out characteristics that were associated with related higher rates of mortality and hospital re-admission.

Methods

This was a historical cohort study with following up of 273 patients recruited in a local rehabilitation hospital for 3 years. The outcome of interest was cumulative mortalities and hospital re-admissions in the 1st 3 years after their discharge from the rehabilitation hospital. These outcomes were collected in the hospital data warehouse — the Clinical Data Analysis and Reporting System (CDARS). Eighteen predictors, as proposed by similar studies and our own review, were retrieved from our standard clinical forms as well as from the CDARS. Binary logistic regression was used to test their association with the outcomes and to generate the respective odd ratios.

Results

The cumulative overall mortality rates at 0.5-, 1-, 2- and 3- year after hip fracture were 7.2%, 14.0%, 24.6% and 33.4% respectively, while the cumulative “1st ever hospital read-mission” at 0.5-, 1, 2- and 3- years after hip fracture were 29.4%, 41.6%, 59.4% and 71.7% respectively. The most significant predictors i) for mortality at 3- year were: “Being male” (OR 5.33), “Delayed surgery >48 hours” (OR 2.65), “pre-operation albumin level <3.5 g/dl” (OR 2.66), and, ii) for “1st ever hospital readmission” at 0.5-year was “Being Assisted walker or non-walker (after rehabilitation)” (OR 3.83).

Conclusions

Characteristics that define the groups of patients with hip fractures with higher mortality and rate of hospital re-admission were identified. This could help healthcare professionals to focus on target patient groups for closer monitoring and more intensive post-discharge care.
A framework for negative knowledge to support hybrid geometric modeling education for product engineering
Authors: Otto Harald E. , Mandorli Ferruccio
Published: November 2017

Due to the full integration of CAD systems into modern product development and engineering, the competency to create usable geometric models has become an essential requirement for current CAD users. To avoid serious repercussions for future engineering labor, the focus of CAD education needs to be raised from the teaching of knowledge that is merely aimed at operating a system, to the development of basic strategic knowledge. From a pedagogical point of view, this situation represents a challenging task that requires new, innovative teaching methodologies. These new methodologies must facilitate the development of know-how and cognitive ability to organize domain knowledge within a holistic mental model allowing for accurate perception of the significance of circumstances and the possible consequences of actions. In this paper a new direction for CAD education is presented, based on the integration of traditional teaching methods with an educational approach based on negative knowledge. Analysis of first empirical results of this newly developed and implemented approach showed promising results. Improvements were observed in a better understanding of issues related to the usability of CAD models and an increased capability to recognize critical modeling situations and thus prevent the mistakes typically made by novices. Also, successful autonomous attempts could be observed of recovery from situations caused either by an accumulation of small mistakes or by severe modeling errors, which usually require remedial intervention by academic supervisors.

Highlights Introduction of a novel framework for supporting competency development within the field of higher education for hybrid geometric modeling. Integration of traditional teaching methods with an educational approach based on negative knowledge. Currently observed improvements of learning outcomes include a better understanding of issues related to the usability of CAD models. Increased capability to recognize critical modeling situations and thus prevent the mistakes typically made by novices.
Attendance at Prescribed Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy in a Diverse, Urban Urogynecology Population
Authors: Shannon Megan B. , Genereux Madeleine , Brincat Cynthia , Adams William , Brubaker Linda , Mueller Elizabeth R. , Fitzgerald Colleen M.
Published: November 2017

Background

Pelvic floor physical therapy (PFPT) is a common and effective treatment for several pelvic floor disorders, but there is limited knowledge about adherence to the therapy or what factors influence attendance.

Objective

To determine rates of PFPT attendance (initiation and completion) as well as correlates of PFPT attendance.

Design

Retrospective cohort analysis.

Setting

Urban outpatient clinics at a tertiary medical center treating women with pelvic floor disorders.

Participants

Patients prescribed PFPT during the time period January 1, 2014, through January 1, 2015.

Main Outcome Measurements

Number of PFPT visits recommended and attended; diagnoses associated with PFPT referral.

Results

Two‐thirds of participants (66%; 118/180) initiated PFPT but less than one‐third (29%; 52/180) completed the full treatment course. On univariate analysis, age, body mass index, diagnosis requiring PFPT treatment, marital or employment status, insurance type, number of comorbidities, incontinence status on examination, and stage of prolapse did not differ between PFPT initiators and noninitiators. Those who self‐identified as Hispanic were less likely to initiate PFPT when compared with non‐Hispanic patients, although this only trended toward significance (odds ratio 0.40, 95% confidence interval 0.14‐1.09; exact P = .078).

Conclusions

Two‐thirds (66%) of patients initiated PFPT but less than one‐third (29%) completed the treatment course. There appears to be an opportunity to augment PFPT attendance, as well as explore racial disparities in attendance.

Level of Evidence

II
Higher harmonic wave loads on a vertical cylinder in finite water depth
Authors: Kristiansen T. , Faltinsen O. M.
Published: November 2017

The theory of Faltinsen et al. (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 289, 1995, pp. 179–198; FNV) for calculation of higher-order wave loads in deep water on a vertical free-surface-piercing circular bottom-mounted non-moving cylinder, based on potential flow of an incompressible fluid, is generalized to finite water depth. Systematic regular wave experiments are carried out, and the harmonics of the horizontal wave loads are compared with the generalized FNV theory. The horizontal force and mudline overturning moment are studied. The main focus is on the third harmonic of the loads, although all harmonics from one to five are considered. The theoretically predicted third harmonic loads are shown to agree well with the experiments for small to medium wave steepnesses, up to a rather distinct limiting wave steepness. Above this limit, the theory overpredicts, and the discrepancy in general increases monotonically with increasing wave steepness. The local Keulegan–Carpenter ($KC$) number along the axis of the cylinder indicates that flow separation will occur for the wave conditions where there are discrepancies. The assumption of $KC$-dependent added mass coefficients and the addition of a drag term in the FNV model, as is done in Morison’s equation, do not explain the discrepancies. A distinct run-up at the rear of the cylinder is observed in the experiments. A 2D Navier–Stokes simulation is carried out, and the resulting pressure, due to flow separation, is shown to qualitatively explain the local rear run-up.
Acrylate-based materials for heart valve scaffold engineering
Authors: Santoro Rosaria , Venkateswaran Seshasailam , Amadeo Francesco , Zhang Rong , Brioschi Maura , Callanan Anthony , Agrifoglio Marco , Banfi Cristina , Bradley Mark , Pesce Maurizio
Published: November 2017

In the present contribution we describe new acrylates materials for valve scaffold engineering, based on a high throughput screen.