bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inmunodeficiencia común variable en adultos
Authors: O’Farrill-Romanillos Patricia María , Herrera-Sánchez Diana Andrea , Hernández-Fernández Cecilia , López-Rocha Eunice Giselle
Published: January 2018

Las inmunodeficiencias primarias (IDP) son enfermedades de baja incidencia, causadas por defectos en genes involucrados en el desarrollo, mantenimiento y regulación del sistema inmune. La inmunodeficiencia común variable (IDCV) es la inmunodeficiencia sintomática más común de la edad adulta. Tiene una prevalencia aproximada de 1 en 25 000-50 000 en la población general, con un retraso en el diagnóstico entre 6-7 años. Las manifestaciones clínicas de la IDCV, constituyen 6 categorías principales: infecciones, complicaciones pulmonares, enfermedad granulomatosa o linfocítica policlonal, autoinmunidad, enfermedades gastrointestinales y neoplasias. La mayoría de los pacientes debe tener al menos una de las siguientes manifestaciones clínicas (infección, autoinmunidad, linfoproliferación). No obstante, el diagnóstico de IDCV puede ser conferido en pacientes asintomáticos especialmente en casos familiares. Las causas secundarias de hipogammaglobulinemia, deben ser descartadas en cualquier paciente que reúna los criterios diagnósticos para IDCV, ya que el tratamiento puede ser totalmente diferente al que se requiere para la IDCV. Debido a que la IDCV comprende un grupo heterogéneo de síndromes con producción deficiente de anticuerpos de tipo primario, el número potencial de entidades dentro de este grupo se desconoce. Los pacientes con IDCV sufren diversas complicaciones que se consideran pronósticas. En ausencia de directrices claras de su búsqueda, se recomienda que durante la evaluación inicial se indague intencionadamente enfermedad linfoproliferativa, enfermedad pulmonar, hepática y autoinmunidad. Los intervalos en los cuales deben realizarse no están claros, pero se pueden requerir varias evaluaciones al año, de acuerdo con la evolución clínica del paciente.
Infección diseminada por complejo M. tuberculosis en paciente con deficiencia completa del receptor 1 de interferón-γ
Authors: Martínez-Morales María Cecilia , Deswarte Carolina , Castañeda-Casimiro Jessica , Bustamante Jacinta , Blancas-Galicia Lizbeth , Scheffler-Mendoza Selma Cecilia
Published: January 2018

Background: Several mutations have been described leading to impaired immunity in the IL-12/IFN-γ axis and, they confer susceptibility to mycobacterial infections. One of the more serious clinical phenotypes is secondary to mutations at IFN-γ receptor 1 gene, characterized by an early onset and more severe disease.Case report: We present a 3-month-old female patient with systemic M. tuberculosis complex who has a homozygous mutation, it affects the splicing site at IFNGR1 c.201-1G> T. At time of this report, she is with antimycobacterial treatment in the protocol of pluripotent hematopoietic cell transplantation (TCHP).Conclusion: It has been reported that antiphimic treatment should be maintained until the immune system is restored by the TCHP. If patients receive THCP before the age of 1 year old, they have a better prognosis. Diminish the levels of IFN-γ in plasma before the procedure is associated to better results.
Reinterpretasi Konsep Bidah Menuju Islam Transformatif
Authors: Susanto Nanang Hasan
Published: January 2018

Reinterpretation the Concept of Heretic toward the Transformative of Islam. This articles aims to reinterpret the concept of heretic (bidah) with a philosophical approach, based on the concept of the transformative of Islam proposed by Moeslim Abdurrahman. The data were collected through library research of the whole concept of heresy, both conservative and moderate then analyzed based on the concept of the conceptual, sociological and antropological approach. This paper found the need to think philosophically about the concept of heretic, by finding the basic purpose of the revealed of religion, so that there is no contradiction between one doctrine and another. Thus, heresy is no longer as the burden of history of Muslim creativity and innovation, but it is indeed the impetus to find breakthroughs in the settlement of various social problems of society.
Etika Lingkungan dalam Kosmologi Sufistik Menurut Seyeed Hossein Nasr
Authors: Suwito Suwito
Published: January 2018

Environmental Ethics of Sufism Cosmology in View of Seyeed Hossein Nasr. Sufism has unique concepts about human life. It provides the ways and methods to find the highest conscious so that the sâlikîn (the followers of sufism) can be wiser than before in any aspects, including in facing ecological crisis issues. This article tried to explore and analyze Seyeed Hossein Nars’s view on ecological ethics in sufism. Nasr’s concept derived from tawhîd (unity). Macro and micro cosmos were God’s theophany. The relation between Allah as The God and cosmos were like one face at the front of thousand mirrors. Allah is The One and there are many manifestations of his reflection. Therefore, the universe contains and accommodates the “aspects” of God. Hence, Nasr developed the concept of tawhîd became rim and axis theory. In this theory, there are similarities and likenesses with a’yan’s Mulla Sadra and al-Ghazali views. Through bashîrah (the eyes of heart), the sâlik can be khalîfah and ‘abd Allâh. Hence, damaging the cosmos also means damaging the relation with Allah.
Pandangan M. Quraish Shihab tentang Posisi Alquran dalam Pengembangan Ilmu
Authors: Aprison Wedra
Published: January 2018

The View of M. Quraish  Shihab View on the Position  of  the Quran in Science Development. The Moslem scholars disagree over the relationship between the Quran and science. Al-Ghazâlî, for example, states that all branches of science, both the already and the unknown, derived from the Quran. While Al-Syâthîbi ’s view is different from Al-Ghazâlî thus it needs to clearance the position of the Quran in the development of knowledge. The research question is how the position of the Quran in the development of science according to the view of M. Quraish Shihab? This study was conducted using a philosophical approach. The conclusion of this research is that the position of the Quran in the development of science more as an ethical basis rather than as a source of science or epistemological base. The Quran is a support for Moslem to seek, research, and develop science. It means that the Quran fills the axiology of scientific development.
Sonkeigo Expressions in Japanese Translation of the Quran
Authors: Rahayu Ely Triasih
Published: January 2018

Sonkeigo Expressions in Japanese Translation of the Quran. This study discusses sonkeigo expressions in Japanese translation of the Quran as a form of honorific to Allah, The Creator. This study focuses on surah al-Baqarah [2] verse 7-30. The sonkeigo is analyzed based on the changes of verbs referring to the acts of Allah, The Creator. A reference study is a method used to collect the data in this qualitative research. The data source is derived from the Japanese translation of the Quran scripture. The data is validated against Japanese native speakers and Arabic tafsir experts. Kayaba theory on the use of sonkeigo form as the honorific language in social interactions is employed. The research conclusion shows that one of the ways for men to respect Allah is by using sonkeigo expressions.
Investigating Meat Milling Business in Yogyakarta: a Maqâshid al-Syarî‘ah Perspectives
Authors: Muttaqin Zein , Ferdaus Nadia Nuril
Published: January 2018

Investigating Meat Milling Business in Yogyakarta: A Maqâshid al-Syarî‘ah Perspectives. This article aims to investigate the meat milling business process in the light of maqâshid al-syarî‘ah perspectives. The ttopic arises due to some past cases related to the mixed process of meat milling of lawful and unlawful meat in the industry, while the demand on the meat milling business is pretty high according to the BAPPENAS Yogyakarta data. Lacking on supervision has threatened consumer protection and deviates from the sharia injunctions. Maqâshid al-syarî‘ah being consider as the basis of sharia compliances that serves to understand the purposes of sharia laws in the daily life in the form of prohibitions and injunctions. Qualitative method and content analysis is conducted to interpret 7 meats milling local shop owner responds regards the manifestation of maqâshid al-syarî‘ah in their business. It can be concluded that the implementation of maqâshid al-syarî‘ah of meat milling business in Yogyakarta on the level of input, process and output has been implemented accordingly. Although there are several cases of respondent that did not abide by the Islamic laws, but most of the businessman are. Halal logistic and supply chain is needed to become the insurance party of the legal aspect of business and also as the milestone of expanding the local meat milling to compete with the bigger competitor such as supermarket.
Diversity of Fodder Plants of Betalghat Block, Nainital district, Western Himalaya
Authors: Pandey Naveen Ch. , Joshi G.C. , Tewari Lalit M. , Pangtey Y.P.S.
Published: January 2018

The Himalaya is well recognized for its bio-physical diversity and socio-cultural heritage, traditional systems and an ample quantity of indigenous knowledge. The study was conducted with the help of Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) tool to document the diversity of fodder plants of Betalghat Block of Nainital District (Western Himalaya). Total 210 fodder plants species belonging to 70 families, 164 genera of different habits such as trees (35%), shrubs (31%), herbs (25%), and climbers (9%), were recorded. Out of 70 families, 12 dominant families were Poaceae (18 species), followed by Fabaceae (16 species), Moraceae (10 species), Rosaceae (10 species), Asteraceae (8 species), Euphorbiaceae (7 species), Mimosaceae (6 species), Caesalpinaceae (5 species), Ranunculaceae (5 species), Rhamnaceae (5 species), Urticaceae (5 species) and Rubiaceae (5 species). Of the total recorded species, 41% of the species were used during winter days, 38% during summer and 21% throughout the year. For each species, scientific and vernacular names, multipurpose uses (Fuel, medicinal, timber, agricultural tools, religious and fiber) were used. For the conservation of fodder plant species prioritization, mass multiplication with afforestation, reforestation and forest rehabilitation must be done.International Journal of EnvironmentVolume-6, Issue-4, Sep-Nov 2017, page: 1-27
Quality Assessment of Ground Water in Dhamar City, Yemen
Authors: Aizari Hefdallah Al , Lebkiri Ahamed , Fadli Mhammde , Albaseer Saeed S.
Published: January 2018

Chemical and statistical regression analysis on groundwater at five fields (17 sampling wells) located in Dhamar city, the central highlands of Yemen, was carried out. Samples were collected from the ground water supplies (tube wells) during the year 2015. Physical parameters studied include (values between bracket s represents the measured mean values) temperature (T, 25°), total dissolved solids (TDS, 271.47), pH (7.5), and electrical conductivity (EC, 424.18). The chemical parameters investigated include total hardness (TH, 127.45), calcium (Ca2+, 32.89), magnesium (Mg2+, 11.03), bicarbonate (HCO3̶, 143.84), sulphate (SO42-, 143.84), sodium (Na+, 35.11), potassium (K+, 6.28) and Chloride (Cl ̵, 22.69). The results were compared with drinking water quality standards issued by Yemen standards for drinking water. Except for T° and pH, all other measured parameters fall below the minimum permissible limits. The correlation between various physio-chemical parameters of the studied water wells was performed using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) method. The obtained results show that all water samples are potable and can be safely used for both drinking and irrigation purposes. This comes in agreement with the public notion about groundwater of Dhamar Governorate. Sodium Absorption Ratio (SAR) values were calculated and found below 3 except for one drill. The results revealed that systematic calculations of correlation coefficients between water parameters and regression analysis provide a useful means for rapid monitoring of water quality.International Journal of EnvironmentVolume-6, Issue-4, Sep-Nov 2017, page: 56-71
Getting it right! Critical Success Factors of BPM in the Public Sector: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Syed Rehan , Bandara Wasana , French Erica , Stewart Glenn
Published: January 2018

The continuously evolving and dynamic social, economic, political environments and public pressures demand governments to deliver effective and efficient public services. In the quest for meeting these demands, governments respond by designing extensive reforms and performance objectives to improve the efficiency and responsiveness of their agencies. Many governments have adopted Business Process Management (BPM) as a strategy to achieve these reforms. However, the successful implementation of BPM initiatives has been a challenging task for agencies responsible for these initiatives, with many projects not reaching completion or not achieving the intended outcomes. This paper reports the results of a systematic literature review on critical success factors (CSFs) related to BPM projects in the public sector. We analysed 31 papers in this review covering both the developed and developing country contexts, sourced from refereed and peer reviewed journals. A quasi-deductive approach was applied for the qualitative data analysis using NVivo 10 software. This resulted in the synthesis and identification of 14 critical success factors of BPM in the public sector, each defined and described in detail with specific attention to the sub-factors mentioned within the literature. Any differences between developed and developing country contexts were sought for, and the observations critically analysed. We propose a series of research questions, designed to support the progression of BPM in the public sector of developed as well as developing countries.
Governing knowledge commons in Caribbean disaster management: A comparative institutional analysis
Authors: McNaughton Maurice , Rao Lila
Published: January 2018

This paper is based on research conducted as an initiative under the Open and Collaborative Science in Development Network (OCSDNet) to explore new innovative mechanisms that can enhance collaborative disaster recovery planning, knowledge management, and learning in the Caribbean. The need for enhanced knowledge management to mitigate disaster risk through the sharing of information and knowledge is a strategic imperative of the Caribbean Disaster Management community. The devastation of the 2017 Hurricane season was a stark reminder of the Caribbean’ vulnerability to natural disasters and underscores the urgency for Collective Action in the common challenge to mitigate the effects of these disasters and to preserve the sustainability and livelihoods of the region and it’s citizens. We employ a preliminary conceptual application of the Knowledge Commons/IAD Framework to illustrate how this kind of institutional analytic process can illuminate and inform strategy, governance and desirable collective action, as well as the merits of alternative enabling technologies. The study contributes to arguments challenging the neutrality of infrastructure for collective action. It highlights the importance, and perhaps imperative, of an institutional approach to the design and implementation of socio-technical systems.
Astrophysicists and physicists as creators of ArXiv-based commenting resources for their research communities. An initial survey
Authors: Marra Monica
Published: January 2018

This paper conveys the outcomes of what results to be the first, though initial, overview of commenting platforms and related 2.0 resources born within and for the astrophysical community (2004–2016). Experiences were added, mainly in the physics domain, for a total of twenty-two major items, including four epijournals – and four supplementary resources, thus casting some light onto an unexpected richness and consonance of endeavours.

These experiences rest almost entirely on the contents of the database ArXiv, which adds to its merits that of potentially setting the grounds for web 2.0 resources, and research behaviours, to be explored.

Most of the experiences retrieved are UK- and US-based, but the resulting picture is international, as various European countries, China and Australia have been actively involved. Final remarks about creation patterns and outcome of these resources are outlined. The results integrate the previous studies according to which the web 2.0 is presently of limited use for communication in astrophysics and vouch for a role of researchers in the shaping of their own professional communication tools that is greater than expected. Collaterally, some aspects of ArXiv’s recent pathway towards partial inclusion of web 2.0 features are touched upon. Further investigation is hoped for.
Management of Papillary Carcinoma of Thyroid with Pulmonary Metastases in Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences, Rajshahi – Two Case Reports
Authors: Shah Md Kabiruzzaman , Begum Nasrin , Hossain Mosharof , Ahmed Parvez , Chawdhuary Sariful Islam , Ahsan M Shamim
Published: January 2018

Papillary thyroid carcinoma with pulmonary metastasis is relatively uncommon which can be treated with radioactive iodine therapy. Here, our experiences with two cases of papillary thyroid carcinoma with pulmonary metastases in young patients are discussed.Bangladesh J. Nuclear Med. 18(2): 179-182, July 2015
Surfactin Protects Wheat against Zymoseptoria tritici and Activates Both Salicylic Acid- and Jasmonic Acid-Dependent Defense Responses
Authors: Le Mire Geraldine , Siah Ali , Brisset Marie-Noëlle , Gaucher Matthieu , Deleu Magali , Jijakli M.
Published: January 2018

Natural elicitors induce plant resistance against a broad spectrum of diseases, and are currently among the most promising biocontrol tools. The present study focuses on the elicitor properties of the cyclic lipopeptide surfactin on wheat, in order to stimulate the defenses of this major crop against the challenging fungal pathogen Zymoseptoria tritici. The protection efficacy of surfactin extracted from the strain Bacillus amyloliquefaciens S499 was investigated through greenhouse trials. Surfactin protected wheat by 70% against Z. tritici, similarly to the chemical reference elicitor Bion®50WG. In vitro biocidal assays revealed no antifungal activities of surfactin towards the pathogen. A biomolecular RT-qPCR based low-density microarray tool was used to study the relative expression of 23 wheat defense genes. Surfactin significantly induced wheat natural defenses by stimulating both salicylic acid- and jasmonic acid-dependent signaling pathways. Surfactin was successfully tested as an elicitor on the pathosystem wheat–Z. tritici. These results promote further sustainable agricultural practices and the reduction of chemical inputs.
Functional Analogues of Salicylic Acid and Their Use in Crop Protection
Authors: Faize Lydia , Faize Mohamed
Published: January 2018

Functional analogues of salicylic acid are able to activate plant defense responses and provide attractive alternatives to conventional biocidal agrochemicals. However, there are many problems that growers must consider during their use in crop protection, including incomplete disease reduction and the fitness cost for plants. High-throughput screening methods of chemical libraries allowed the identification of new compounds that do not affect plant growth, and whose mechanisms of action are based on priming of plant defenses, rather than on their direct activation. Some of these new compounds may also contribute to the discovery of unknown components of the plant immune system.
Challenges of the Usual Graphical Methods Used to Characterize Phase Change Materials by Differential Scanning Calorimetry
Authors: Gibout Stéphane , Franquet Erwin , Haillot Didier , Bédécarrats Jean-Pierre , Dumas Jean-Pierre
Published: January 2018

Modeling the thermal behavior of a plant or devices using Phase Change Materials (PCM) requires to know their thermophysical properties. The Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) is a technic largely used to investigate them. However, under the pretext to experiment with small samples, some authors consider the DSC curves as directly representing the properties of the materials without realizing that this interpretation is very often incompatible with the thermodynamics laws: as an example, although a pure substance melts at a fixed temperature T F , it is proposed a melting through a temperature range higher than T F and depending on the experiments (heating rates, sample masses...), for solutions the suggested characteristic temperatures are incompatible with the phase diagram, and also a hysteresis phenomenon is invented... In this paper, we demonstrate by a model coupling thermodynamics and conduction heat transfers, that the DSC curves are exactly compatible with the thermodynamics of phase changes (melting at fixed temperature for pure substances, in conformity with phase diagrams for solutions...). The cases of pure substances, saline solutions, substances with impurities or solid solutions are detailed. We indicate which information can, however, be given by the curves. We also propose a more sophisticated method by inverse calculations to determine the specific enthalpy whose all the thermodynamical properties can be deduced. Finally, we give some indications to understand and use the results indicating supercooling.
The Effects of Remineralization via Fluoride Versus Low-Level Laser IR810 and Fluoride Agents on the Mineralization and Microhardness of Bovine Dental Enamel
Authors: Lara-Carrillo Edith , Lovera-Rojas Nayeli , Morales-Luckie Raúl , Robles-Bermeo Norma , García-Fabila María , De la Rosa-Santillana Rubén , Medina-Solís Carlo
Published: January 2018

The objective of this study was to assess the mineralization and microhardness of bovine dental enamel surfaces treated with fluoride, tri-calcium phosphate, and infrared (IR) 810 laser irradiation. The study used 210 bovine incisors, which were divided into six groups (n = 35 in each): Group A: Untreated (control), Group B: Fluoride (Durapath-Colgate), Group C: Fluoride+Tri-calcium phosphate (Clin-Pro White-3 M), Group D: Laser IR 810 (Quantum), Group E: Fluoride+laser, and Group F: Fluoride+tri-calcium phosphate+laser). Mineralization was measured via UV-Vis spectroscopy for phosphorus and via atomic absorption spectroscopy for calcium upon demineralization and remineralization with proven agents. Microhardness (SMH) was measured after enamel remineralization. Mineral loss data showed differences between the groups before and after the mineralizing agents were placed (p < 0.05). Fluoride presented the highest remineralization tendency for both calcium and phosphate, with a Vickers microhardness of 329.8 HV0.1/11 (p < 0.05). It was observed that, if remineralization solution contained fewer minerals, the microhardness surface values were higher (r = −0.268 and −0.208; p < 0.05). This study shows that fluoride has a remineralizing effect compared with calcium triphosphate and laser IR810. This in vitro study imitated the application of different remineralizing agents and showed which one was the most efficient for treating non-cavitated injuries. This can prevent the progression of lesions in patients with white spot lesions.
Improving Roadside Unit Deployment in Vehicular Networks by Exploiting Genetic Algorithms
Authors: Fogue Manuel , Sanguesa Julio , Martinez Francisco , Marquez-Barja Johann
Published: January 2018

Vehicular networks make use of the Roadside Units (RSUs) to enhance the communication capabilities of the vehicles in order to forward control messages and/or to provide Internet access to vehicles, drivers and passengers. Unfortunately, within vehicular networks, the wireless signal propagation is mostly affected by buildings and other obstacles (e.g., urban fixtures), in particular when considering the IEEE 802.11p standard. Therefore, a crowded RSU deployment may be required to ensure vehicular communications within urban environments. Furthermore, some applications, notably those applications related to safety, require a fast and reliable warning data transmission to the emergency services and traffic authorities. However, communication is not always possible in vehicular environments due to the lack of connectivity even employing multiple hops. To overcome the signal propagation problem and delayed warning notification time issues, an effective, smart, cost-effective and all-purpose RSU deployment policy should be put into place. In this paper, we propose the genetic algorithm for roadside unit deployment (GARSUD) system, which uses a genetic algorithm that is capable of automatically providing an RSU deployment suitable for any given road map layout. Our simulation results show that GARSUD is able to reduce the warning notification time (the time required to inform emergency authorities in traffic danger situations) and to improve vehicular communication capabilities within different density scenarios and complexity layouts.
Effects of Sex Steroids on Fish Leukocytes
Authors: Chaves-Pozo Elena , García-Ayala Alfonsa , Cabas Isabel
Published: January 2018

In vertebrates, in addition to their classically reproductive functions, steroids regulate the immune system. This action is possible mainly due to the presence of steroid receptors in the different immune cell types. Much evidence suggests that the immune system of fish is vulnerable to xenosteroids, which are ubiquitous in the aquatic environment. In vivo and in vitro assays have amply demonstrated that oestrogens interfere with both the innate and the adaptive immune system of fish by regulating the main leukocyte activities and transcriptional genes. They activate nuclear oestrogen receptors and/or G-protein coupled oestrogen receptor. Less understood is the role of androgens in the immune system, mainly due to the complexity of the transcriptional regulation of androgen receptors in fish. The aim of this manuscript is to review our present knowledge concerning the effect of sex steroid hormones and the presence of their receptors on fish leukocytes, taking into consideration that the studies performed vary as regard the fish species, doses, exposure protocols and hormones used. Moreover, we also include evidence of the probable role of progestins in the regulation of the immune system of fish.
Multiscale and Multimodal Approaches to Study Autophagy in Model Plants
Authors: Marion Jessica , Le Bars Romain , Besse Laetitia , Batoko Henri , Satiat-Jeunemaitre Béatrice
Published: January 2018

Autophagy is a catabolic process used by eukaryotic cells to maintain or restore cellular and organismal homeostasis. A better understanding of autophagy in plant biology could lead to an improvement of the recycling processes of plant cells and thus contribute, for example, towards reducing the negative ecological consequences of nitrogen-based fertilizers in agriculture. It may also help to optimize plant adaptation to adverse biotic and abiotic conditions through appropriate plant breeding or genetic engineering to incorporate useful traits in relation to this catabolic pathway. In this review, we describe useful protocols for studying autophagy in the plant cell, taking into account some specificities of the plant model.
Effect of Noble Metals (Ag, Pd, Pt) Loading over the Efficiency of TiO2 during Photocatalytic Ozonation on the Toxicity of Parabens
Authors: Gomes João , Lopes Ana , Bednarczyk Katarzyna , Gmurek Marta , Stelmachowski Marek , Zaleska-Medynska Adriana , Quinta-Ferreira M. , Costa Raquel , Quinta-Ferreira Rosa , Martins Rui
Published: January 2018

The conventional wastewater treatments are inadequate for emerging contaminants detoxification. Photocatalytic ozonation with suitable catalyst can be considered as a suitable solution on the removal of these compounds. The aim of this study was to verify the effect of Ag, Pd and Pt with different loadings (0.1, 0.5 and 1% wt %) onto TiO2 surface for the degradation of a mixture of parabens (methyl, ethyl, propyl, butyl and benzyl) through photocatalytic ozonation. Chemical oxygen demand (COD) and total organic carbon (TOC) was also analyzed after treatments, as well as the effect of the treatment on the samples toxicity over different species, including bacteria, clams and plants. The effect of metal loading on the parabens degradation; COD and TOC removal is very dependent upon the type of noble metal used. This can be related with the different pathways influenced by the metal load. On the one hand, it can be related with the reduction of electron–hole recombination phenomenon, and, on the other hand, the trapping of electrons by the metals reduces the amount of ozonide and hydroxyl radicals produced. In terms of toxicity, apparently the best results were achieved with the intermediate noble metal load. However, the effect of noble metal load must be analyzed case to case.
Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Chemosensors in 2017
Authors:   Chemosensors Editorial Office
Published: January 2018

Peer review is an essential part in the publication process, ensuring that Chemosensors maintains high quality standards for its published papers. In 2017, a total of 32 papers were published in the journal.[...]
Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Coatings in 2017
Authors:   Coatings Editorial Office
Published: January 2018

Peer review is an essential part in the publication process, ensuring that Coatings maintains high quality standards for its published papers.[...]
Anti-Corrosive and Scale Inhibiting Polymer-Based Functional Coating with Internal and External Regulation of TiO2 Whiskers
Authors: Wang Chijia , Wang Huaiyuan , Hu Yue , Liu Zhanjian , Lv Chongjiang , Zhu Yanji , Bao Ningzhong
Published: January 2018

A novel multi-functional carrier of mesoporous titanium dioxide whiskers (TiO2(w)) modified by ethylenediamine tetra (methylene phosphonic acid) (EDTMPA) and imidazoline was devised in epoxy coating to improve the anti-corrosion and scale inhibition properties of metal surface. Rigorous characterization using analytical techniques showed that a mesoporous structure was developed on the TiO2(w). EDTMPA and imidazoline were successfully grafted on the outer and inner surfaces of mesoporous TiO2(w) to synthesize iETiO2(w). The results demonstrated that the corrosion resistance of the final iETiO2(w) epoxy coating is 40 times higher than that of the conventional unmodified OTiO2(w) epoxy coating. The enhanced corrosion resistance of the iETiO2(w) functional coating is due to the chelation of the scaling cations by EDTMPA and electron sharing between imidazoline and Fe. Scale formation on the iETiO2(w) coating is 35 times lower than that on the unmodified OTiO2(w) epoxy coating. In addition, EDTMPA and imidazoline act synergistically in promoting the barrier property of mesoporous TiO2(w) in epoxy coating. It is believed that this novel, simple, and inexpensive route for fabricating functional surface protective coatings on various metallic materials will have a wide range of practical applications.
Thermal and Electrical Characterization of a Semi-Transparent Dye-Sensitized Photovoltaic Module under Real Operating Conditions
Authors: Cornaro Cristina , Renzi Ludovica , Pierro Marco , Di Carlo Aldo , Guglielmotti Alessandro
Published: January 2018

Dye-sensitized solar cell technology is having an important role in renewable energy research due to its features and low-cost manufacturing processes. Devices based on this technology appear very well suited for integration into glazing systems due to their characteristics of transparency, color tuning and manufacturing directly on glass substrates. Field data of thermal and electrical characteristics of dye-sensitized solar modules (DSM) are important since they can be used as input of building simulation models for the evaluation of their energy saving potential when integrated into buildings. However, still few studies in the literature provide this information. The study presented here aims to contribute to fill this lack providing a thermal and electrical characterization of a DSM in real operating conditions using a method developed in house. This method uses experimental data coming from test boxes exposed outdoor and dynamic simulation to provide thermal transmittance (U-value) and solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) of a DSM prototype. The device exhibits a U-value of 3.6 W/m2·K, confirmed by an additional measurement carried on in the lab using a heat flux meter, and a SHGC of 0.2, value compliant with literature results. Electrical characterization shows an increase of module power with respect to temperature resulting DSM being suitable for integration in building facades.
Energy-Saving Performance of Flap-Adjustment-Based Centrifugal Fan
Authors: Chen Genglin , Xu Wei , Zhao Jinyun , Zhang Haipeng
Published: January 2018

The current paper mainly focuses on finding a more appropriate way to enhance the fan performance at off-design conditions. The centrifugal fan (CF) based on flap-adjustment (FA) has been investigated through theoretical, experimental, and finite element methods. To obtain a more predominant performance of CF from the different adjustments, we carried out a comparative analysis on FA and leading-adjustment (LA) in aerodynamic performances, which included the adjusted angle of blades, total pressure, efficiency, system-efficiency, adjustment-efficiency, and energy-saving rate. The contribution of this paper is the integrated performance curve of the CF. Finally, the results showed that the effects of FA and LA on economic performance and energy savings of the fan varied with the blade angles. Furthermore, FA was feasible, which is more sensitive than LA. Moreover, the CF with FA offered a more extended flow-range of high economic characteristic in comparison with LA. Finally, when the operation flow-range extends, energy-saving rate of the fan with FA would have improvement.
Identification of Transposable Elements Contributing to Tissue-Specific Expression of Long Non-Coding RNAs
Authors: Chishima Takafumi , Iwakiri Junichi , Hamada Michiaki
Published: January 2018

It has been recently suggested that transposable elements (TEs) are re-used as functional elements of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs). This is supported by some examples such as the human endogenous retrovirus subfamily H (HERVH) elements contained within lncRNAs and expressed specifically in human embryonic stem cells (hESCs), as required to maintain hESC identity. There are at least two unanswered questions about all lncRNAs. How many TEs are re-used within lncRNAs? Are there any other TEs that affect tissue specificity of lncRNA expression? To answer these questions, we comprehensively identify TEs that are significantly related to tissue-specific expression levels of lncRNAs. We downloaded lncRNA expression data corresponding to normal human tissue from the Expression Atlas and transformed the data into tissue specificity estimates. Then, Fisher’s exact tests were performed to verify whether the presence or absence of TE-derived sequences influences the tissue specificity of lncRNA expression. Many TE–tissue pairs associated with tissue-specific expression of lncRNAs were detected, indicating that multiple TE families can be re-used as functional domains or regulatory sequences of lncRNAs. In particular, we found that the antisense promoter region of L1PA2, a LINE-1 subfamily, appears to act as a promoter for lncRNAs with placenta-specific expression.
NF-kappaB: Two Sides of the Same Coin
Authors: Pires Bruno , Silva Rafael , Ferreira Gerson , Abdelhay Eliana
Published: January 2018

Nuclear Factor-kappa B (NF-κB) is a transcription factor family that regulates a large number of genes that are involved in important physiological processes, including survival, inflammation, and immune responses. More recently, constitutive expression of NF-κB has been associated with several types of cancer. In addition, microorganisms, such as viruses and bacteria, cooperate in the activation of NF-κB in tumors, confirming the multifactorial role of this transcription factor as a cancer driver. Recent reports have shown that the NF-κB signaling pathway should receive attention for the development of therapies. In addition to the direct effects of NF-κB in cancer cells, it might also impact immune cells that can both promote or prevent tumor development. Currently, with the rise of cancer immunotherapy, the link among immune cells, inflammation, and cancer is a major focus, and NF-κB could be an important regulator for the success of these therapies. This review discusses the contrasting roles of NF-κB as a regulator of pro- and antitumor processes and its potential as a therapeutic target.
Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Hydrology in 2017
Authors:   Hydrology Editorial Office
Published: January 2018

Peer review is an essential part in the publication process, ensuring that Hydrology maintains high quality standards for its published papers. In 2017, a total of 62 papers were published in the journal.[...]
The Zika Virus Epidemic in Brazil: From Discovery to Future Implications
Authors: Lowe Rachel , Barcellos Christovam , Brasil Patrícia , Cruz Oswaldo , Honório Nildimar , Kuper Hannah , Carvalho Marilia
Published: January 2018

The first confirmed case of Zika virus infection in the Americas was reported in Northeast Brazil in May 2015, although phylogenetic studies indicate virus introduction as early as 2013. Zika rapidly spread across Brazil and to more than 50 other countries and territories on the American continent. The Aedes aegypti mosquito is thought to be the principal vector responsible for the widespread transmission of the virus. However, sexual transmission has also been reported. The explosively emerging epidemic has had diverse impacts on population health, coinciding with cases of Guillain–Barré Syndrome and an unexpected epidemic of newborns with microcephaly and other neurological impairments. This led to Brazil declaring a national public health emergency in November 2015, followed by a similar decision by the World Health Organization three months later. While dengue virus serotypes took several decades to spread across Brazil, the Zika virus epidemic diffused within months, extending beyond the area of permanent dengue transmission, which is bound by a climatic barrier in the south and low population density areas in the north. This rapid spread was probably due to a combination of factors, including a massive susceptible population, climatic conditions conducive for the mosquito vector, alternative non-vector transmission, and a highly mobile population. The epidemic has since subsided, but many unanswered questions remain. In this article, we provide an overview of the discovery of Zika virus in Brazil, including its emergence and spread, epidemiological surveillance, vector and non-vector transmission routes, clinical complications, and socio-economic impacts. We discuss gaps in the knowledge and the challenges ahead to anticipate, prevent, and control emerging and re-emerging epidemics of arboviruses in Brazil and worldwide.
Identifying Dietary Patterns Associated with Mild Cognitive Impairment in Older Korean Adults Using Reduced Rank Regression
Authors: Shin Dayeon , Lee Kyung , Kim Mi-Hye , Kim Hung , An Yun , Chung Hae-Kyung
Published: January 2018

Diet plays a crucial role in cognitive function. Few studies have examined the relationship between dietary patterns and cognitive functions of older adults in the Korean population. This study aimed to identify the effect of dietary patterns on the risk of mild cognitive impairment. A total of 239 participants, including 88 men and 151 women, aged 65 years and older were selected from health centers in the district of Seoul, Gyeonggi province, and Incheon, in Korea. Dietary patterns were determined using Reduced Rank Regression (RRR) methods with responses regarding vitamin B6, vitamin C, and iron intakes, based on both a one-day 24-h recall and a food frequency questionnaire. Cognitive function was assessed using the Korean-Mini Mental State Examination (K-MMSE). Multivariable logistic regression models were used to estimate the association between dietary pattern score and the risk of mild cognitive impairment. A total of 20 (8%) out of the 239 participants had mild cognitive impairment. Three dietary patterns were identified: seafood and vegetables, high meat, and bread, ham, and alcohol. Among the three dietary patterns, the older adult population who adhered to the seafood and vegetables pattern, characterized by high intake of seafood, vegetables, fruits, bread, snacks, soy products, beans, chicken, pork, ham, egg, and milk had a decreased risk of mild cognitive impairment compared to those who did not (adjusted odds ratios 0.06, 95% confidence interval 0.01–0.72) after controlling for gender, supplementation, education, history of dementia, physical activity, body mass index (BMI), and duration of sleep. The other two dietary patterns were not significantly associated with the risk of mild cognitive impairment. In conclusion, high consumption of fruits, vegetables, seafood, and protein foods was significantly associated with reduced mild cognitive impairment in older Korean adults. These results can contribute to the establishment of dietary guidelines targeting older Korean adults to reduce mild cognitive impairments. Future prospective cohort studies are warranted to examine the effect of the seafood and vegetable dietary pattern on reducing mild cognitive impairment to prove the cause–effect relationship between dietary patterns and cognitive function.
Preventive Effect of Residential Green Space on Infantile Atopic Dermatitis Associated with Prenatal Air Pollution Exposure
Authors: Lee Ji-Young , Lamichhane Dirga , Lee Myeongjee , Ye Shinhee , Kwon Jung-Hyun , Park Myung-Sook , Kim Hwan-Cheol , Leem Jong-Han , Hong Yun-Chul , Kim Yangho , Ha Mina , Ha Eunhee
Published: January 2018

Few birth cohort studies have examined the role of traffic-related air pollution (TRAP) in the development of infantile atopic dermatitis (AD), but none have investigated the role of preventive factors such as green spaces. The aim of this study was to investigate whether exposure to nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of <10 μm (PM10) during pregnancy is associated with increased risk of development of AD in 6-month-old children and also to examine how this association changes with residential green space. This study used prospective data from 659 participants of the Mothers and Children’s Environmental Health study. Subjects were geocoded to their residential addresses and matched with air pollution data modeled using land-use regression. Information on infantile AD was obtained by using a questionnaire administered to the parents or guardians of the children. The association between infantile AD and exposure to NO2 and PM10 was determined using logistic regression models. We assessed the effects of residential green spaces using stratified analyses and by entering product terms into the logistic regression models. The risk of infantile AD significantly increased with an increase in air pollution exposure during the first trimester of pregnancy. The adjusted odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were 1.219 (1.023–1.452) per 10 μg/m3 increase in PM10 and 1.353 (1.027–1.782) per 10 ppb increase in NO2. An increase in the green space within 200 m of residence was associated with a decreased risk of AD (OR = 0.996, 95% CI: 0.993–0.999). The stratified analysis of residential green space revealed stronger associations between infantile AD and PM10 and NO2 exposure during the first trimester in the areas in the lower tertiles of green space. This study indicated that exposure to TRAP during the first trimester of pregnancy is associated with infantile AD. Less residential green space may intensify the association between TRAP exposure and infantile AD.
Dissecting Time- from Tumor-Related Gene Expression Variability in Bilateral Breast Cancer
Authors: Callari Maurizio , Dugo Matteo , Miodini Patrizia , Veneroni Silvia , Bianchini Giampaolo , Daidone Maria , Cappelletti Vera
Published: January 2018

Metachronous (MBC) and synchronous bilateral breast tumors (SBC) are mostly distinct primaries, whereas paired primaries and their local recurrences (LRC) share a common origin. Intra-pair gene expression variability in MBC, SBC, and LRC derives from time/tumor microenvironment-related and tumor genetic background-related factors and pairs represents an ideal model for trying to dissect tumor-related from microenvironment-related variability. Pairs of tumors derived from women with SBC (n = 18), MBC (n = 11), and LRC (n = 10) undergoing local-regional treatment were profiled for gene expression; similarity between pairs was measured using an intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) computed for each gene and compared using analysis of variance (ANOVA). When considering biologically unselected genes, the highest correlations were found for primaries and paired LRC, and the lowest for MBC pairs. By instead limiting the analysis to the breast cancer intrinsic genes, correlations between primaries and paired LRC were enhanced, while lower similarities were observed for SBC and MBC. Focusing on stromal-related genes, the ICC values decreased for MBC and were significantly different from SBC. These findings indicate that it is possible to dissect intra-pair gene expression variability into components that are associated with genetic origin or with time and microenvironment by using specific gene subsets.
Unfolding Role of a Danger Molecule Adenosine Signaling in Modulation of Microbial Infection and Host Cell Response
Authors: Lee Jaden , Yilmaz Özlem
Published: January 2018

Ectonucleotidases CD39 and CD73, specific nucleotide metabolizing enzymes located on the surface of the host, can convert a pro-inflammatory environment driven by a danger molecule extracellular-ATP to an adenosine-mediated anti-inflammatory milieu. Accordingly, CD39/CD73 signaling has been strongly implicated in modulating the intensity, duration, and composition of purinergic danger signals delivered to host. Recent studies have eluted potential roles for CD39 and CD73 in selective triggering of a variety of host immune cells and molecules in the presence of pathogenic microorganisms or microbial virulence molecules. Growing evidence also suggests that CD39 and CD73 present complimentary, but likely differential, actions against pathogens to shape the course and severity of microbial infection as well as the associated immune response. Similarly, adenosine receptors A2A and A2B have been proposed to be major immunomodulators of adenosine signaling during chronic inflammatory conditions induced by opportunistic pathogens, such as oral colonizer Porphyromonas gingivalis. Therefore, we here review the recent studies that demonstrate how complex network of molecules in the extracellular adenosine signaling machinery and their interactions can reshape immune responses and may also be targeted by opportunistic pathogens to establish successful colonization in human mucosal tissues and modulate the host immune response.