bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Src Family Kinases as Therapeutic Targets in Advanced Solid Tumors: What We Have Learned So Far
Authors: Martellucci Stefano , Clementi Letizia , Sabetta Samantha , Mattei Vincenzo , Botta Lorenzo , Angelucci Adriano
Published: June 2020

Src is the prototypal member of Src Family tyrosine Kinases (SFKs), a large non-receptor kinase class that controls multiple signaling pathways in animal cells. SFKs activation is necessary for the mitogenic signal from many growth factors, but also for the acquisition of migratory and invasive phenotype. Indeed, oncogenic activation of SFKs has been demonstrated to play an important role in solid cancers; promoting tumor growth and formation of distant metastases. Several drugs targeting SFKs have been developed and tested in preclinical models and many of them have successfully reached clinical use in hematologic cancers. Although in solid tumors SFKs inhibitors have consistently confirmed their ability in blocking cancer cell progression in several experimental models; their utilization in clinical trials has unveiled unexpected complications against an effective utilization in patients. In this review, we summarize basic molecular mechanisms involving SFKs in cancer spreading and metastasization; and discuss preclinical and clinical data highlighting the main challenges for their future application as therapeutic targets in solid cancer progression
Study of the Effect of Activated Carbon Cathode Configuration on the Performance of a Membrane-Less Microbial Fuel Cell
Authors: González M. L. Jiménez , Hernández Benítez Carlos , Juarez Zabdiel Abisai , Zamudio Pérez Evelyn , Ramírez Coutiño Víctor Ángel , Robles Irma , Godínez Luis A. , Rodríguez-Valadez Francisco J.
Published: June 2020

In this paper, the effect of cathode configuration on the performance of a membrane-less microbial fuel cell (MFC) was evaluated using three different arrangements: an activated carbon bed exposed to air (MFCE), a wetland immersed in an activated carbon bed (MFCW) and a cathode connected to an aeration tower featuring a water recirculation device (MFCT). To evaluate the MFC performance, the efficiency of the organic matter removal, the generated voltage, the power density and the internal resistance of the systems were properly assessed. The experimental results showed that while the COD removal efficiency was in all cases over 60% (after 40 days), the MFCT arrangement showed the best performance since the average removal value was 82%, compared to close to 70% for MFCE and MFCW. Statistical analysis of the COD removal efficiency confirmed that the performance of MCFT is substantially better than that of MFCE and MFCW. In regard to the other parameters surveyed, no significant influence of the different cathode arrangements explored could be found.
Cancer Biology and Prevention in Diabetes
Authors: Srivastava Swayam Prakash , Goodwin Julie E.
Published: June 2020

The available evidence suggests a complex relationship between diabetes and cancer. Epidemiological data suggest a positive correlation, however, in certain types of cancer, a more complex picture emerges, such as in some site-specific cancers being specific to type I diabetes but not to type II diabetes. Reports share common and differential mechanisms which affect the relationship between diabetes and cancer. We discuss the use of antidiabetic drugs in a wide range of cancer therapy and cancer therapeutics in the development of hyperglycemia, especially antineoplastic drugs which often induce hyperglycemia by targeting insulin/IGF-1 signaling. Similarly, dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP-4), a well-known target in type II diabetes mellitus, has differential effects on cancer types. Past studies suggest a protective role of DPP-4 inhibitors, but recent studies show that DPP-4 inhibition induces cancer metastasis. Moreover, molecular pathological mechanisms of cancer in diabetes are currently largely unclear. The cancer-causing mechanisms in diabetes have been shown to be complex, including excessive ROS-formation, destruction of essential biomolecules, chronic inflammation, and impaired healing phenomena, collectively leading to carcinogenesis in diabetic conditions. Diabetes-associated epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) contribute to cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF) formation in tumors, allowing the epithelium and endothelium to enable tumor cell extravasation. In this review, we discuss the risk of cancer associated with anti-diabetic therapies, including DPP-4 inhibitors and SGLT2 inhibitors, and the role of catechol-o-methyltransferase (COMT), AMPK, and cell-specific glucocorticoid receptors in cancer biology. We explore possible mechanistic links between diabetes and cancer biology and discuss new therapeutic approaches.
Effects of GH/IGF on the Aging Mitochondria
Authors: Poudel Sher Bahadur , Dixit Manisha , Neginskaya Maria , Nagaraj Karthik , Pavlov Evgeny , Werner Haim , Yakar Shoshana
Published: June 2020

The mitochondria are key organelles regulating vital processes in the eukaryote cell. A decline in mitochondrial function is one of the hallmarks of aging. Growth hormone (GH) and the insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) are somatotropic hormones that regulate cellular homeostasis and play significant roles in cell differentiation, function, and survival. In mammals, these hormones peak during puberty and decline gradually during adulthood and aging. Here, we review the evidence that GH and IGF-1 regulate mitochondrial mass and function and contribute to specific processes of cellular aging. Specifically, we discuss the contribution of GH and IGF-1 to mitochondrial biogenesis, respiration and ATP production, oxidative stress, senescence, and apoptosis. Particular emphasis was placed on how these pathways intersect during aging.
Quantitative Sensory Testing in Adolescents with Co-Occurring Chronic Pain and Obesity: A Pilot Study
Authors: Hainsworth Keri R. , Simpson Pippa M. , Ali Omar , Varadarajan Jaya , Rusy Lynn , Weisman Steven J.
Published: June 2020

Factors such as gender, ethnicity, and age affect pain processing in children and adolescents with chronic pain. Although obesity has been shown to affect pain processing in adults, almost nothing is known about pediatric populations. The aim of this pilot study was to explore whether obesity alters sensory processing in adolescents with chronic pain. Participants were recruited from a chronic pain clinic (Chronic Pain (CP), n = 12 normal weight; Chronic Pain + Obesity (CPO), n = 19 overweight/obesity) and from an obesity clinic (Obesity alone (O), n = 14). The quantitative sensory testing protocol included assessments of thermal and mechanical pain thresholds and perceptual sensitization at two sites with little adiposity. The heat pain threshold at the hand was significantly higher in the CPO group than in either the CP or O groups. Mechanical pain threshold (foot) was significantly higher in the CPO group than the CP group. No differences were found on tests of perceptual sensitization. Correlations between experimental pain and clinical pain parameters were found for the CPO group, but not for the CP group. This preliminary study provides important lessons learned for subsequent, larger-scale studies of sensory processing for youth with co-occurring chronic pain and obesity.
On the Numerical Analysis of Unsteady MHD Boundary Layer Flow of Williamson Fluid Over a Stretching Sheet and Heat and Mass Transfers
Authors: Shateyi Stanford , Muzara Hillary
Published: June 2020

A thorough and detailed investigation of an unsteady free convection boundary layer flow of an incompressible electrically conducting Williamson fluid over a stretching sheet saturated with a porous medium has been numerically carried out. The partial governing equations are transferred into a system of non-linear dimensionless ordinary differential equations by employing suitable similarity transformations. The resultant equations are then numerically solved using the spectral quasi-linearization method. Numerical solutions are obtained in terms of the velocity, temperature and concentration profiles, as well as the skin friction, heat and mass transfers. These numerical results are presented graphically and in tabular forms. From the results, it is found out that the Weissenberg number, local electric parameter, the unsteadiness parameter, the magnetic, porosity and the buoyancy parameters have significant effects on the flow properties.
Biochemical Biomarkers of Mucosal Healing for Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Adults
Authors: Krzystek-Korpacka Małgorzata , Kempiński Radosław , Bromke Mariusz , Neubauer Katarzyna
Published: June 2020

Mucosal healing (MH) is the key therapeutic target of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The evaluation of MH remains challenging, with endoscopy being the golden standard. We performed a comprehensive overview of the performance of fecal-, serum-, and urine-based biochemical markers in colonic IBD to find out whether we are ready to replace endoscopy with a non-invasive but equally accurate instrument. A Pubmed, Web of Knowledge, and Scopus search of original articles as potential MH markers in adults, published between January 2009 and March 2020, was conducted. Finally, 84 eligible studies were identified. The most frequently studied fecal marker was calprotectin (44 studies), with areas under the curves (AUCs) ranging from 0.70 to 0.99 in ulcerative colitis (UC) and from 0.70 to 0.94 in Crohn`s disease (CD), followed by lactoferrin (4 studies), matrix metalloproteinase-9 (3 studies), and lipocalin-2 (3 studies). The most frequently studied serum marker was C-reactive protein (30 studies), with AUCs ranging from 0.60 to 0.96 in UC and from 0.64 to 0.93 in CD. Fecal calprotectin is an accurate MH marker in IBD in adults; however, it cannot replace endoscopy and the application of calprotectin is hampered by the lack of standardization concerning the cut-off value. Other markers are either not sufficiently accurate or have not been studied extensively enough.
Tracking Control for an Electro-Hydraulic Rotary Actuator Using Fractional Order Fuzzy PID Controller
Authors: Do Tri Cuong , Tran Duc Thien , Dinh Truong Quang , Ahn Kyoung Kwan
Published: June 2020

This paper presents a strategy for a fractional order fuzzy proportional integral derivative controller (FOFPID) controller for trajectory-tracking control of an electro-hydraulic rotary actuator (EHRA) under variant working requirements. The proposed controller is based on a combination of a fractional order PID (FOPID) controller and a fuzzy logic system. In detail, the FOPID with extension from the integer order to non-integer order of integral and derivative functions helps to improve tracking, robustness and stability of the control system. A fuzzy logic control system is designed to adjust the FOPID parameters according to time-variant working conditions. To evaluate the proposed controller, co-simulations (using AMESim and MATLAB) and real-time experiments have been conducted. The results show the effectiveness of the proposed approach compared to other typical controllers.
Evaluation of NaCl and KCl Salting Effects on Technological Properties of Pre- and Post-Rigor Chicken Breasts at Various Ionic Strengths
Authors: Song Dong-Heon , Ham Youn-Kyung , Noh Sin-Woo , Chin Koo Bok , Kim Hyun-Wook
Published: June 2020

The objective of this study is to evaluate the effects of NaCl and KCl salting on technological properties of pre- and post-rigor chicken breasts at various ionic strengths. The following factorial arrangement was used: 2 salt types (NaCl and KCl) × 2 rigor statuses (pre- and post-rigor) × 4 ionic strengths (0.086, 0.171, 0.257, and 0.342). Hot-boned and ground chicken breasts were salted within 30 min postmortem after slaughter (pre-rigor salting) or 24 h postmortem (post-rigor salting) with varying concentrations of NaCl (0.50%, 1.00%, 1.50%, and 2.00%) or KCl (0.64%, 1.28%, 1.91%, and 2.55%) corresponding to the four ionic strengths. KCl caused higher pH value in salted chicken breasts than NaCl (p < 0.05). However, KCl decreased total and myofibrillar protein solubilities in post-rigor salted chicken breasts compared to NaCl (p < 0.05), but those were similar to pre-rigor chicken breasts, regardless of the salt type (p > 0.05). Different salt types had no significant impact on cooking loss and textural properties. This study shows that NaCl and KCl had similar effects on technological properties at the same ionic strength (within 0.342), but the use of KCl may have the possibility to decrease protein solubility, depending on rigor status of raw meat at the different salting time.
Major Sensory Attributes and Volatile Compounds of Korean Rice Liquor (yakju) Affecting Overall Acceptance by Young Consumers
Authors: Heo JeongAe , Kwak Han Sub , Kim Miran , Kim Jae-Ho , Baek Hyung Hee , Shin Hyukjin , Lee Young-seung , Lee Sanghyeok , Kim Sang Sook
Published: June 2020

The sensory characteristics and volatile compounds that affect consumers’ acceptance of rice liquors were investigated. A total of 80 consumers evaluated 12 yakju samples and descriptive analysis by 11 trained panelists was conducted. Solvent-assisted flavor evaporation-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis also was conducted revealing 120 volatile compounds in the yakju samples. Sensory attributes (n = 31) except appearance attributes were used for principal component analysis (PCA). As results, fruit odor (apple, hawthorn, omija, and pineapple odor) and flower odor (chrysanthemum, pine, and peppermint odor) were placed on the positive side of PC1 whereas persimmon vinegar odor, bitter taste, alcohol flavor, stinging and coating mouthfeel were located on the negative side of PC1. The yakju samples were mainly characterized by their alcohol content and supplementary ingredients. Sensory descriptors (n = 31; except appearance attributes and p > 0.05) and volatile compounds (n = 30; p > 0.5 correlation coefficient with overall acceptance) were chosen for multiple factor analysis (MFA). The MFA correlation map showed that ethyl propanoate, ethyl-2-hydroxy-2-methylbutanoate, methyl 2-furoate, γ-butyrolactone, 4-ethoxycarbonyl-γ-butyrolactone, hawthorn odor, apple flavor, grape flavor, and sweet taste were positively correlated with young consumers’ overall acceptance. Additionally, negative correlation with overall acceptance was found in 1,3-butanediol, 2,3-butanediol, and 1,1-diethoxy-3-methylbutane.
2D-Cross Correlation Spectroscopy Coupled with Molecular Fluorescence Spectroscopy for Analysis of Molecular Structure Modification of Camel Milk and Cow Milk Mixtures during Coagulation
Authors: Boukria Oumayma , El Hadrami El Mestafa , Sultanova Shaxnoza , Safarov Jasur , Leriche Françoise , Aït-Kaddour Abderrahmane
Published: June 2020

Synchronous fluorescence spectroscopy (SFS) coupled with two-dimensional correlation spectroscopy (2DCOS) was employed to monitor, at the molecular level, the coagulation of five mixture ratios of camel’s milk (CaM) and cow’s milk (CM) (100% CaM, 75% CaM:25% CM, 50% CaM:50% CM, 25% CaM:75% CM and 100% CM). The dissimilarities among the different formulations are highlighted on the synchronous 2DCOS-SFS. In addition, according to the cross-peak symbols in synchronous and asynchronous spectra, the rate of response modification in riboflavin, protein and vitamin A matched with common coagulation phenomena usually reported during chymosin coagulation (hydrolysis of κ-casein, destabilization of casein micelles and aggregation). This study demonstrated that 2DCOS-SFS is a successful strategy to discriminate milk mixtures and to monitor molecular structure modifications during coagulation process.
The Effects of Production System and Sex on the Sensory Quality Characteristics of Dorper Lamb
Authors: Hoffman Louwrens Christiaan , Claasen Bianca , Van der Merwe Daniël André , Cloete Schalk Willem Petrus , Cloete Jasper Johannes Erasmus
Published: June 2020

The effect of production systems on the sensory quality characteristics of Dorper lambs was investigated. Sixty lambs (ewes, rams, castrates) were allocated into two production groups (feedlot or free-range) at weaning with equal numbers of each sex represented in each group. The lambs were fed for five (slaughter group 1) or six (slaughter group 2) weeks. Feedlot lambs were fed a commercial pelleted diet while free-range lambs utilized natural shrub pastures. Samples of the Longissimus thoracis muscle were used for sensory evaluation. Feedlot lambs produced meat that was juicier and more tender than meat from free-range lambs. Initial juiciness was also higher in the meat from the feedlot lambs. No aroma or flavour differences were observed. The meat from the free-range ram lambs (slaughter group 1) was the least tender, whereas the lamb flavour was also compromised in the free-range ram lambs. Free-range meat may not necessarily be distinguished from feedlot meat as far as aroma and flavour are concerned.
Effect of Instant Controlled Pressure Drop (DIC) Treatment on the Detection of Nut Allergens by Real Time PCR
Authors: Sanchiz Africa , Cuadrado Carmen , Haddad Joseph , Linacero Rosario
Published: June 2020

Tree nuts show nutritional properties and human health benefits. However, they contain allergenic proteins, which make them harmful to the sensitised population. The presence of tree nuts on food labelling is mandatory and, consequently, the development of suitable analytical methodologies to detect nuts in processed foods is advisable. Real-Time PCR allowed a specific and accurate amplification of allergen sequences. Some food processing methods could induce structural and/or conformational changes in proteins by altering their allergenic capacity, as well as produce the fragmentation and/or degradation of genomic DNA. In this work, we analysed by means of Real-Time PCR, the influence of pressure and thermal processing through Instant Controlled Pressure Drop (DIC) on the detectability of hazelnut, pistachio and cashew allergens. The detection of targets in hazelnut, pistachio and cashew (Cor a 9, Pis v 1 and Ana o 1, respectively) is affected by the treatment to different extents depending on the tree nut. Results are compared to those previously obtained by our group in the analysis of different treatments on the amplificability of the same targets. Reduction in amplificability is similar to that reported for some autoclave conditions. Our assays might allow for the detection of up to 1000 mg/kg of hazelnut, pistachio and cashew flours after being submitted to DIC treatment in food matrices.
The Web of Micro-Structures in IC 4593
Authors: Mari M. Belén , Gonçalves Denise R. , Akras Stavros
Published: June 2020

In addition to large-scale structures, planetary nebulae (PNe) show small-scale structures that emit mainly in low-ionization species such as [N ii], [S ii], [O ii], and [O i], known as LISs. Here, we present the analysis of optical long-slit spectra, for three slit positions, of the PN IC 4593, which possesses a pair of knots and an isolated low-ionization knot. The motivation for this work is the need to characterize LISs completely to evaluate their impact on the PNe studies. These data allow us to derive the physical properties and ionization state for each morphological component of the nebula, including its pair of knots and individual knot. Due to the large uncertainties in the [S ii] derived electron densities, we cannot confirm any contrast between the LISs’ electron densities and the surrounding nebula, found in numerous other LISs. Though the lack of spatially-resolved physical parameters in the literature prevents further comparisons, in general, our results derived for the entire nebula agree with previous studies.
A Shortage in the Number of Nurses—A Case Study from a Selected Region in the Czech Republic and International Context
Authors: Maresova Petra , Prochazka Miroslav , Barakovic Sabina , Baraković Husić Jasmina , Kuca Kamil
Published: June 2020

A lack of nurses in the Czech Republic is an issue that has been under discussion for several years. The aim of this paper is to analyze the lack and need of general nurses and midwives in the Hradec Kralove region where the shortage is higher than the national average. The used methods are quantitative research and structured interviews, to determine the number of nurses in healthcare institutions. The study uses data obtained from publicly available sources, i.e., Czech Statistical Office (CSO) and the National Institute of Education (NIE). The shortage of nurses in the Hradec Kralove region can be expected by 2030 to be in the range between 647.6 and 667.1 nurses while maintaining the existing conditions, that is, five times more than at present. In addition to the commonly considered measures that appear in the country’s strategies—such as improving the quality of conditions during studies and during employment, specifying or adjusting the role and competency of nurses and midwives in the healthcare system, or unifying employment standards— a focus on promoting the nursing profession can be recommended. Schools and ministries should be encouraged to focus on and invest in the promotion of this profession, so as to play a key role in recruiting new students for the nursing field of study at a time when the nursing profession is perceived positively, as an embodiment of solidarity and selflessness.
Meet the Virtual Jeju Dol Harubang—The Mixed VR/AR Application for Cultural Immersion in Korea’s Main Heritage
Authors: Jung Kwanghee , Nguyen Vinh T. , Piscarac Diana , Yoo Seung-Chul
Published: June 2020

Jeju Island comes second to only Seoul as Korea’s most visited destination, yet most visitors do not have the chance to go beyond brief visits and immerse themselves in the island’s history and cultural heritage. This project introduces the cultural heritage of Jeju Island to visitors through virtual reality/augmented reality (VR/AR) model visualization technology, namely JejuView, which provides an intuitive way to experience cultural heritage sites on the island. The proposed VR/AR application is designed to introduce a series of heritage spots on Jeju Island through (i) a printed Jeju map with embedded QR code markers that enable viewers to experience the locations without being present at the site, (ii) a mobile device with WebGL supported browser which allows 3D content to be rendered, and (iii) an AR library (A-Frame.io) that enables enthusiasts to recreate similar work. To test the effectiveness of the proposed VR/AR application, the authors conducted an experiment with 251 participants to test the research model based on the technology acceptance model (TAM) and employed generalized structured component analysis (GSCA) for the analysis. Results show that when using sensory new media such as VR/AR, consumers are more focused on the hedonic value than on the utilitarian value of the information. In conclusion, the proposed VR/AR application is complementary to existing studies and provides significant support to researchers, engineers, and designers developing VR/AR technologies for use in cultural education and tourism marketing.
Evaluation of the Predictive Ability, Environmental Regulation and Pharmacogenetics Utility of a BMI-Predisposing Genetic Risk Score during Childhood and Puberty
Authors: Anguita-Ruiz Augusto , González-Gil Esther M. , Rupérez Azahara I. , Llorente-Cantarero Francisco Jesús , Pastor-Villaescusa Belén , Alcalá-Fdez Jesús , Moreno Luis A. , Gil Ángel , Gil-Campos Mercedes , Bueno Gloria , Leis Rosaura , Aguilera Concepción M.
Published: June 2020

Polygenetic risk scores (pGRSs) consisting of adult body mass index (BMI) genetic variants have been widely associated with obesity in children populations. The implication of such obesity pGRSs in the development of cardio-metabolic alterations during childhood as well as their utility for the clinical prediction of pubertal obesity outcomes has been barely investigated otherwise. In the present study, we evaluated the utility of an adult BMI predisposing pGRS for the prediction and pharmacological management of obesity in Spanish children, further investigating its implication in the appearance of cardio-metabolic alterations. For that purpose, we counted on genetics data from three well-characterized children populations (composed of 574, 96 and 124 individuals), following both cross-sectional and longitudinal designs, expanding childhood and puberty. As a result, we demonstrated that the pGRS is strongly associated with childhood BMI Z-Score (B = 1.56, SE = 0.27 and p-value = 1.90 × 10−8), and that could be used as a good predictor of obesity longitudinal trajectories during puberty. On the other hand, we showed that the pGRS is not associated with cardio-metabolic comorbidities in children and that certain environmental factors interact with the genetic predisposition to the disease. Finally, according to the results derived from a weight-reduction metformin intervention in children with obesity, we discarded the utility of the pGRS as a pharmacogenetics marker of metformin response.
Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography in Neurodegenerative Disorders
Authors: Pellegrini Marco , Vagge Aldo , Ferro Desideri Lorenzo , Bernabei Federico , Triolo Giacinto , Mastropasqua Rodolfo , Del Noce Chiara , Borrelli Enrico , Sacconi Riccardo , Iovino Claudio , Di Zazzo Antonio , Forlini Matteo , Giannaccare Giuseppe
Published: June 2020

Retinal microcirculation shares similar features with cerebral small blood vessels. Thus, the retina may be considered an accessible ‘window’ to detect the microvascular damage occurring in the setting of neurodegenerative disorders. Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A) is a non-invasive imaging modality providing depth resolved images of blood flow in the retina, choroid, and optic nerve. In this review, we summarize the current literature on the application of OCT-A in glaucoma and central nervous system conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis. Future directions aiming at evaluating whether OCT-A can be an additional biomarker for the early diagnosis and monitoring of neurodegenerative disorders are also discussed.
Relationship between Evaluations of Tracheal Tube Position Using Ultrasound and Fluoroscopy in an Infant and Pediatric Population
Authors: Ramsingh Davinder , Ghazal Elizabeth , Gordon Brent , Ross Philip , Goltiao Darren , Alschuler Matt , Pugh Justin , Holsclaw Matthew , Mason Linda
Published: June 2020

Introduction: A non-radiographic technique to measure the location of the tracheal tube (TT) in children is of value given the risk of inappropriate TT placement along with concerns about radiation exposure. Airway point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) has demonstrated utility in children, but the examinations vary by age and may require non-traditional techniques or utilize less common probes. This study evaluated the performance of measuring the tracheal location of the cuffed TT using a novel, linear probe-based POCUS examination over a wide age range of children. After adjusting for the subjects’ height and TT size, ultrasound measurements of the TT cuff location were compared with fluoroscopy measurements of the TT tip location. Methods: Perioperative pediatric patients (<10 years) requiring a cuffed TT were enrolled. After routine TT placement, ultrasound and fluoroscopy images were obtained. Measurements from the TT cuff to the cricoid cartilage were obtained from the POCUS examination. Chest fluoroscopy was reviewed to measure the TT’s distance from the carina. Both measurements were then compared after scaling for patient height. The duration of the ultrasound examination and image quality scores were also recorded. Results: Forty-one patients were enrolled, with a median age of 3 (25th/75th percentile: 1.50/7.00) years. The POCUS examination identified the TT cuff in all cases with the highest image quality score. The median POCUS exam time was 112 (25th/75th percentile: 80.00/156.00) seconds. There was a strong correlation between the POCUS measurements and the fluoroscopy measurements, r = −0.7575, 95% CI [−0.8638, −0.5866 ], p < 0.001). Conclusions: Our results demonstrate a strong correlation between POCUS TT localization measurements and traditional measurements via fluoroscopy. This study further supports the utility of POCUS for pediatric care.
Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Prognosis and Therapy: Criticisms and Perspectives
Authors: Russo Domenico , Garcia-Gutierrez José Valentín , Soverini Simona , Baccarani Michele
Published: June 2020

Ph+ chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is a clonal myeloproliferative disease whose clinical course is characterized by progression disease from the early chronic phase (CP) to the fatal blastic phase (BP). This programmed course is closely related to the translocation t(9;22)(q22;q11) and the resulting BCR-ABL1 fusion protein (p210) that drives the leukemic transformation of hematopoietic stem cells. Therefore, the cure of CML can only pass through the abrogation of the Ph+ clone. Allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT) and interferon-alpha (IFNα) have been proven to reduce the Ph+ clone in a limited proportion of CML population and this translated in a lower rate of progression to BP and in a significant prolongation of survival. Tyrosine-kinase inhibitors (TKIs), lastly introduced in 2000, by preventing the disease blastic transformation and significantly prolonging the survival in up to 90% of the patient population, radically changed the fate of CML. The current therapy with TKIs induces a chronicization of the disease but several criticisms still persist, and the most relevant one is the sustainability of long-term therapy with TKIs in terms of compliance, toxicity and costs. The perspectives concern the optimization of therapy according to the age, the risk of disease, the potency and the safety profiles of the TKIs. The prolongation of survival is the most important end point which should be guaranteed to all patients. The treatment free remission (TFR) is the new goal that we would like to give to an increasing number of patients. The cure remains the main objective of CML therapy.
Spatial-Monthly Variations and Influencing Factors of Dissolved Oxygen in Surface Water of Zhanjiang Bay, China
Authors: Zhou Fengxia , Lu Xuan , Chen Fajin , Zhu Qingmei , Meng Yafei , Chen Chunqing , Lao Qibin , Zhang Shuwen
Published: June 2020

Dissolved oxygen (DO) is one of the most important factors for maintaining a healthy marine ecosystem. The information of DO in large estuaries or bays with large entrances has been widely studied, while it is relatively limited for a bay with a narrow entrance which is vulnerable to human activities. The Zhanjiang Bay, located in the northwestern South China Sea, has a very narrow entrance and suffers from strong anthropogenic activities and obvious seasonal variations in environmental parameters. In this study, we analyzed the spatial and monthly variations of DO, apparent oxygen utilization (AOU), percent oxygen saturation (DO-saturation), and related environmental parameters in the surface water of Zhanjiang Bay to find out the factors controlling the dynamics of DO. Different from many other coastal ecosystems, DO concentrations in the Zhanjiang Bay reached minimum values in late spring and early autumn. The phytoplankton bloom in summer months, which was related to the high concentrations of nutrients brought by rainfall-induced terrestrial inputs, contributed to that phenomenon. Though high chlorophyll a (Chl a) concentrations were observed in both the summer months and December, the DO-saturation values were relatively low and AOU values were relatively high in summer months. Rainfall-induced terrestrial discharge in summer months, which had high concentrations of chemical oxygen demand, contributed much to that phenomenon. The average DO concentrations and DO-saturation values in a hydrological year decreased seaward, and AOU values increased seaward, indicating the anthropogenic influence from terrestrial input. The highest annual average Chl a concentration, relatively high annual average DO-saturation value and relatively low annual AOU value were observed near the Donghai Dam. This indicated that the construction of Donghai Dam has significant influences on the environment of Zhanjiang Bay.
Creating a Map of the Social Functions of Urban Green Spaces in a City with Poor Availability of Spatial Data: A Sociotope for Lodz
Authors: Łaszkiewicz Edyta , Czembrowski Piotr , Kronenberg Jakub
Published: June 2020

Many cities lack complex spatial databases that can answer the question “What does a given green space offer?” This complicates the lives of inhabitants, planners, and local authorities. One of the ways to obtain a complex picture of urban green spaces is to link multiple data sources. This article presents such an attempt to link multiple data sources to obtain a map of the social functions of urban green spaces in a city without a comprehensive spatial database on urban green spaces. We do so by adapting a method of mapping the social functions of urban green spaces—sociotope mapping—to the Central-Eastern European city of Lodz (Poland). Our results feature a map of the main social functions of urban green spaces (divided into five categories: nature, physical activity, social, play, and aesthetics) and GIS databases, with spatially explicit information on the 48 attributes of 196 urban green spaces in Lodz. According to our results, the greatest effort in sociotope mapping involves collecting data from different sources as it requires collaborating with various stakeholders—the owners of the data. Our study fits into the general trend of linking official data from municipal records with additional data on inhabitants’ preferences for urban green space planning and management.
Performance Analysis of Low-Cost Tracking System for Mobile Robots
Authors: Botta Andrea , Quaglia Giuseppe
Published: June 2020

This paper proposes a reliable and straightforward approach to mobile robots (or moving objects in general) indoor tracking, in order to perform a preliminary study on their dynamics. The main features of this approach are its minimal and low-cost setup and a user-friendly interpretation of the data generated by the ArUco library. By using a commonly available camera, such as a smartphone one or a webcam, and at least one marker for each object that has to be tracked, it is possible to estimate the pose of these markers, with respect to a reference conveniently placed in the environment, in order to produce results that are easily interpretable by a user. This paper presents a simple extension to the ArUco library to generate such user-friendly data, and it provides a performance analysis of this application with static and moving objects, using a smartphone camera to highlight the most notable feature of this solution, but also its limitations.
Application of Functional Data Analysis and FTIR-ATR Spectroscopy to Discriminate Wine Spirits Ageing Technologies
Authors: Anjos Ofélia , Martínez Comesaña Miguel , Caldeira Ilda , Pedro Soraia Inês , Eguía Oller Pablo , Canas Sara
Published: June 2020

Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) with Attenuated Total Reflection (ATR) combined with functional data analysis (FDA) was applied to differentiate aged wine spirits according to the ageing technology (traditional using 250 L wooden barrels versus alternative using micro-oxygenation and wood staves applied in 1000 L stainless steel tanks), the wood species used (chestnut and oak), and the ageing time (6, 12, and 18 months). For this purpose, several features of the wine spirits were examined: chromatic characteristics resulting from the CIELab method, total phenolic index, concentrations of furfural, ellagic acid, vanillin, and coniferaldehyde, and total content of low molecular weight phenolic compounds determined by HPLC. FDA applied to spectral data highlighted the differentiation between all groups of samples, confirming the differentiation observed with the analytical parameters measured. All samples in the test set were differentiated and correctly assigned to the aged wine spirits by FDA. The FTIR-ATR spectroscopy combined with FDA is a powerful methodology to discriminate wine spirits resulting from different ageing technologies.
A Multi-Criteria Study of Decision-Making Proficiency in Student’s Employability for Multidisciplinary Curriculums
Authors: Huang Yueh-Min , Hsieh Ming Yuan , Usak Muhammet
Published: June 2020

To effectively increase the employment rate of higher education graduates, higher education institutions are doing their best to provide the most high-quality technologized interdisciplinary curriculum, to educate professional expertise in decision-making and to fortify student employability. Therefore, after executing a series of evaluated measurements, there are four highly valuable and contributive conclusions and findings. First, judgeability was the most critical decision-making employability factor and was directly influenced by the self-efficacy (SE), self-control (SC) and self-regulation (SR) of the autonomy-learning performance of social learning theory (SLT). Second, the SE of autonomy-learning performance of SLT was positively impacted by the behavioral intention to use and actual system use of the technology acceptance model (TAM), and monitor, control and evaluate decision-making, select the best solutions, clarify the objectiveness to be achieved and search for possible solutions of rational decision-making model (RDMM). It is necessary for higher education graduates to possess judgeability to confidently deal with problem-solving issues by actually using diversified technological applications for clarifying, monitoring, controlling and evaluating the decision-making objectiveness, and to comprehensively search the possible solutions, in order to eventually induce the best solutions for the problem. Third, define and diagnose the issues or problems of the RDMM model affected by the self-control (SC) of autonomy-learning performance of the SLT theory, because higher education graduates have to possess justifiability to define and diagnose the problem-solving issues in-depth, by exercising the introspective self-correcting capacities cultivated from an interdisciplinary curriculum. Lastly, actual system use of the TAM indeed impacted the SR of the autonomy-learning performance of SLT, because higher education graduates have to assess, revise and justify their self-actions in thinking, motivation, feeling, cognition and behaviors, by self-observing and accumulating experience from an interdisciplinary curriculum.
Squeezed Hybrid Nanofluid Flow Over a Permeable Sensor Surface
Authors: Waini Iskandar , Ishak Anuar , Pop Ioan
Published: June 2020

This paper examines the squeezed hybrid nanofluid flow over a permeable sensor surface with magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) and radiation effects. The alumina (Al2O3) and copper (Cu) are considered as the hybrid nanoparticles, while water is the base fluid. The governing equations are reduced to the similarity equations, using the similarity transformation. The resulting equations are programmed in Matlab software through the bvp4c solver to obtain the numerical solutions. It was found that the heat transfer rate was greater for the hybrid nanofluid, compared to the regular nanofluid. It was observed that dual solutions exist for some values of the permeable parameter S. The upper branch solutions of the skin friction coefficient ( Re x 1 / 2 C f ) and the heat transfer rate at the surface ( Re x − 1 / 2 N u x ) enhance with the added Cu nanoparticle ( φ 2 ) and for larger magnetic strength ( M ). Moreover, the values of Re x 1 / 2 C f decrease, whereas the values of Re x − 1 / 2 N u x increase for both branches, with the rise of the squeeze flow index ( b ). Besides, an increment of the heat transfer rate at the sensor surface for both branches was observed in the presence of radiation ( R ). Temporal stability analysis was employed to determine the stability of the dual solutions, and it was discovered that only one of them was stable and physically reliable as time evolves.
New Sharp Bounds for the Modified Bessel Function of the First Kind and Toader-Qi Mean
Authors: Yang Zhen-Hang , Tian Jing-Feng , Zhu Ya-Ru
Published: June 2020

Let I v x be he modified Bessel function of the first kind of order v. We prove the double inequality sinh t t cosh 1 / q q t < I 0 t < sinh t t cosh 1 / p p t holds for t > 0 if and only if p ≥ 2 / 3 and q ≤ ln 2 / ln π . The corresponding inequalities for means improve already known results.
Sliding Modes Control for Heat Transfer in Geodesic Domes
Authors: Florez Frank , Fernández de Cordoba Pedro , Taborda John , Polo Miguel , Castro-Palacio Juan Carlos , Pérez-Quiles María Jezabel
Published: June 2020

The analysis and modeling of unconventional thermal zones is a first step for the inclusion of low-cost spaces and for the assessment of the environmental impact among areas of human use in warm climates. In this paper, the heat transfer in a geodesic dome located at the University of Magdalena (Colombia) is modeled and simulated. The simulator is calibrated against experimental measurements and used to study the effect of different loads which are regulated by a controller in sliding modes explicitly designed for this case. The closed-loop system is used together with ASHRAE Standard 55 to characterize comfort conditions within the dome and the effect on the overall thermal sensation with increasing the number of occupants.
Recovery of Diamond and Cobalt Powders from Polycrystalline Drawing Die Blanks via Ultrasound Assisted Leaching Process—Part 2: Kinetics and Mechanisms
Authors: Kießling Ferdinand , Stopic Srecko , Gürmen Sebahattin , Friedrich Bernd
Published: June 2020

The leaching of industrial polycrystalline diamond (PCD) blanks in aqua regia at atmospheric pressure between 60 °C and 80 °C was performed using an ultrasound to improve the rate of cobalt removal in order to be able to reuse very expensive polycrystalline diamond. Because cobalt (20 wt.%) is used as a solvent catalyst in the production of PCD, its recovery is very important. The cleaned PCD are returned to the production process. Kinetic models were used in the study of cobalt dissolution from polycrystalline diamond blanks by measuring the declining ferromagnetic properties over time. For a better understanding of this leaching process, thermochemical aspects are included in this work. The lowest free Gibbs energy value was obtained with a low solid/liquid ratio and the full use of an ultrasound. A transition from a reaction-controlled to a diffusion-controlled shrinking core model was observed for PCD with a thickness greater than 2.8–3.4 mm. Intermittent ultrasound doubles the reaction rate constant, and the full use of ultrasound provides a 1.5-fold further increase. The obtained maximum activation energy between 60 °C and 80 °C is 20 kJ/mol, for a leaching of diamond blank with grain size of 5 µm.
Soil Bacterial Diversity and Potential Functions Are Regulated by Long-Term Conservation Tillage and Straw Mulching
Authors: Liu Chang , Li Lingling , Xie Junhong , Coulter Jeffrey A. , Zhang Renzhi , Luo Zhuzhu , Cai Liqun , Wang Linlin , Gopalakrishnan Subramaniam
Published: June 2020

Soil physiochemical properties are regulated by cropping practices, but little is known about how tillage influences soil microbial community diversity and functions. Here, we assessed soil bacterial community assembly and functional profiles in relation to tillage. Soils, collected in 2018 from a 17-year field experiment in northwestern China, were analyzed using high-throughput sequencing and the PICRUSt approach. The taxonomic diversity of bacterial communities was dominated primarily by the phyla Proteobacteria (32–56%), Bacteroidetes (12–33%), and Actinobacteria (17–27%). Alpha diversity (Chao1, Shannon, Simpson, and operational taxonomic unit (OTU) richness) was highest under no-tillage with crop residue removed (NT). Crop residue retention on the soil surface (NTS) or incorporated into soil (TS) promoted the abundance of Proteobacteria by 16 to 74% as compared to conventional tillage (T). Tillage practices mainly affected the pathways of soil metabolism, genetic information processing, and environmental information processing. Soil organic C and NH4–N were the principal contributors to the diversity and composition of soil microbiota, whereas soil pH, total nitrogen, total P, and moisture had little effect. Our results suggest that long-term conservation practices with no-tillage and crop residue retention shape soil bacterial community composition through modifying soil physicochemical properties and promoting the metabolic function of soil microbiomes.
Combined Application of Bacteriophages and Carvacrol in the Control of Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae Planktonic and Biofilm Forms
Authors: Ni Peien , Wang Lei , Deng Bohan , Jiu Songtao , Ma Chao , Zhang Caixi , Almeida Adelaide , Wang Dapeng , Xu Wenping , Wang Shiping
Published: June 2020

Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae (Psa) is the causative agent of the bacterial canker of kiwifruit (Actinidia spp.). Phage therapy has been suggested as a viable alternative approach to controlling this disease, but its efficacy is limited by the emergence of phage-resistant mutants. Carvacrol is an essential oil that may be useful for the control of Psa. Combination therapies can be used to overcome resistance development. Here, the combination of phages (single phage suspensions of phages PN05 and PN09, and a cocktail of both phages) and carvacrol was investigated in controlling Psa planktonic and biofilm forms in vitro. The phage therapy alone (with phages PN05 and PN09), and the carvacrol alone (minimum inhibitory concentration 2.0 mg/mL), inhibited Psa growth, but the combined effect of both therapies was more effective. The phages alone effectively inhibited Psa growth for 24 h, but Psa regrowth was observed after this time. The carvacrol (2.0 mg/mL) alone prevented the biofilm formation for 48 h, but did not destroy the pre-formed biofilms. The combined treatment, phages and carvacrol (2.0 mg/mL), showed a higher efficacy, preventing Psa regrowth for more than 40 h. In conclusion, the combined treatment with phages and carvacrol may be a promising, environment-friendly and cost-effective approach to controlling Psa in the kiwifruit industry.
A Scoping Review of Interactions between Omega-3 Long-Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Genetic Variation in Relation to Cancer Risk
Authors: Yurko-Mauro Karin , Van Elswyk Mary , Teo Lynn
Published: June 2020

This scoping review examines the interaction of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and genetic variants of various types of cancers. A comprehensive search was performed to identify controlled and observational studies conducted through August 2017. Eighteen unique studies were included: breast cancer (n = 2), gastric cancer (n = 1), exocrine pancreatic cancer (n = 1), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (n = 1), prostate cancer (n = 7) and colorectal cancer (n = 6). An additional 13 studies that focused on fish intake or at-risk populations were summarized to increase readers’ understanding of the topic based on this review, DHA and EPA interact with certain genetic variants to decrease breast, colorectal and prostate cancer risk, although data was limited and identified polymorphisms were heterogeneous. The evidence to date demonstrates that omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 LC-PUFA) may decrease cancer risk by affecting genetic variants of inflammatory pathways, oxidative stress and tumor apoptosis. Collectively, data supports the notion that once a genetic variant is identified, the benefits of a targeted, personalized therapeutic regimen that includes DHA and/or EPA should be considered.