bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efecto del extracto etanólico de las hojas de Annona muricata L (guanabana) sobre Síndrome metabólico inducido en ratas
Authors: Palomino-Flores Christian , Arroyo-Acevedo Jorge
Published: September 2017

Objetivo. Evaluar el efecto del extracto etanólico de hojas de guanábana (EEA) administrado en ratas con síndrome metabólico experimental. Materiales y Métodos. Estudio experimental. Noventa ratas machos de 2 meses, cepa Holtzmann de 175±25 g de peso se dividieron en nueve grupos: I) normal (suero salino fisiológico-SSF-2 mL/kg); II) EEA 200 mg/kg; III) 200 mg/kg de colesterol y 100 mg/kg de fructosa (CF) para inducción de síndrome metabólico (SM); IV-VI) CF + EEA 50, 100 y 200 mg/kg respectivamente; VII) CF + atorvastatina 20 mg/kg; VIII) CF + enalapril 20 mg/kg; IX) CF + enalapril 20 mg/kg + atorvastatina 20 mg/kg. Estos grupos fueron intervenidos por 90 días, donde se midieron: peso corporal (g), niveles de glicemia (mg/dL), hemoglobina glicosilada (HbA1c), presión arterial (mmHg) y perfil lipídico (colesterol total, triglicéridos, HDL-c y LDL-c en mg/dL). Resultados. Se encontraron diferencias significativas en los valores de glicemia (-23,9 mg/mL; IC95%: -36,7 a -11.0), HbA1c (-0,8%; IC95%: -1,2 a -0,4) y triglicéridos (-68,1; IC95% -96,0 a -40,1) en la dosis de EEA 200 mg/kg en comparación con el grupo III. La dosis de 100 mg/kg logró presiones arteriales: sistólica (-6,8 mmHg; IC95%: -17,5 a 3,9, p=0,397), diastólica (-3,9 mmHg; IC95%: -14,0 a 6,2, p=0,861) y media (-9,9 mmHg; IC95%: -31,1 a 11,3, p=0,720); parecidas al grupo I. Asimismo, esta dosis logró diferencias en colesterol total (-57,6 mg/dL; IC 95% -75,7 a -39,4) y LDL-c (-56,5 mg/dL; IC 95% -75,7 a -37,3) en comparación con el grupo III. Conclusiones. El extracto etanólico de las hojas de Annona muricata L. (guanábana) a dosis de 200 mg/kg mostró un mejor efecto ante la inducción de síndrome metabólico experimental.
La medicina complementaria en el tratamiento de las enfermedades tropicales desatendidas: accidentes ofi­dicos
Authors: Mark Valencia Braulio , Zavaleta Alfonso
Published: September 2017

De acuerdo con la Organización Mundial de la Salud más de 1 billón de personas distribuidas en 149 países son afectadas por enfermedades tropicales desatendidas, ocasionando cuantiosos daños económicos, sociales y psicológicos a los afectados, así como un elevado gasto estatal. El envenenamiento por mordedura de serpiente es una de las más desatendidas: se estima que anualmente de los casi 5 millones de mordeduras de serpiente que ocurren a nivel mundial, la mitad genera envenenamientos que ocasionarían entre 94-125 mil muertes, 400 mil amputaciones y otras secuelas severas. Por ello, se realizó una búsqueda en Pubmed para identificar publicaciones en los que se hayan usado terapias complementarias o tradicionales o alguno de sus componentes. De los 142 artículos, 18 fueron seleccionados por tratarse de estudios in vivo para identificar el efecto antiofídico de los compuestos. Los estudios seleccionados se enfocaron en evaluar el efecto antihemorrágico (13/18), antiedematoso (11/18), antinecrotizante (5/18) y de reducción de letalidad (4/18). Se estudió el efecto de los compuestos en veneno de Bothrops atrox (6/18), Bothrops jararaca(5/18), Bothrops asper (3/18), Bothrops jararacussu (2/18), Bothrops erythromelas (2/18), Bothrops paulensis (1/18), Crotalus adamanteus (1/18), Crotalus durissus terrificus (1/18), y Lachesis muta (1/18). De las 24 plantas evaluadas, se encontró mayor cantidad de publicaciones sobre el efecto terapéutico de Bellucia dichotoma, Connarus favosus, Plathymenia reticulata, Jatropha gossypiifolia y Renealmia alpinia.
Dickkopf 3 (Dkk3) Improves Amyloid-β Pathology, Cognitive Dysfunction, and Cerebral Glucose Metabolism in a Transgenic Mouse Model of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Zhang Li , Sun Caixian , Jin Yaxi , Gao Kai , Shi Xudong , Qiu Wenying , Ma Chao , Zhang Lianfeng
Published: September 2017

Dysfunctional Wnt signaling is associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and activation of the Wnt signaling pathway inhibits AD development. Dickkopf 3 (Dkk3) is a modulator of the Wnt signaling pathway and is physiologically expressed in the brain. The role of Dkk3 in the pathogenesis of AD has not been evaluated. In the present study, we determined that Dkk3 expression was significantly decreased in brain tissue from AD patients and the AD transgenic mouse model APPswe/PS1dE9 (AD mice). Transgenic mice with brain tissue-specific Dkk3 expression were generated or crossed with AD mice to study the effects of Dkk3 on AD. In AD mice, transgenic expression of Dkk3 improved abnormalities in learning, memory, and locomotor activity, reduced the accumulation of amyloid-β, and ameliorated glucose uptake deficits. Furthermore, we determined that Dkk3 downregulated GSK-3β, a central negative regulator in canonical Wnt signaling, and upregulated PKCβ1, a factor implicated in noncanonical Wnt signaling. This indicates that increased activation of GSK-3β and the inhibition of PKCβ1 in AD patients may be responsible for the dysfunctional Wnt signaling in AD. In summary, our data suggest that Dkk3 is an agonist of Wnt signaling, and the ability of transgenic expression of Dkk3 to compensate for the decrease in Dkk3 expression in AD mice, reverse dysfunctional Wnt signaling, and partially inhibit the pathological development of AD suggests that Dkk3 could serve as a therapeutic target for the treatment of AD.
A Critical Assessment of Exosomes in the Pathogenesis and Stratification of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Tofaris George K.
Published: September 2017

Extracellular vesicles including exosomes are released by a variety of cell types including neurons and exhibit molecular profiles that reflect normal and disease states. As their content represents a snapshot of the intracellular milieu, they could be exploited as biomarkers of the otherwise inaccessible brain microenvironment. In addition they may contribute to the progression of neurodegenerative disorders by facilitating the spread of misfolded proteins at distant sites or activating immune cells. This review summarizes recent advances in the study of exosomes in Parkinson’s disease pathophysiology and their potential as disease biomarkers.
Reducing the Shared Burden of Chronic Conditions among Persons Aging with Disability and Older Adults in the United States through Bridging Aging and Disability
Authors: Campbell Margaret , Putnam Michelle
Published: September 2017

Persons aging with long-term disabilities such as spinal cord injury or multiple sclerosis and older adults share similar chronic conditions in mid and later life in the United States. The rising general interest and more prevalent federal requirements for use of evidence-based practices (EBP) in health promotion and chronic condition interventions highlight the gap between demand and the availability of EBPs for persons aging with disability in particular. Addressing this gap will require focused efforts that will benefit substantially by bridging the fields of aging and disability/rehabilitation to develop new EBPs, translate existing EBPs across populations, and borrow best practices across fields where there are few current EBPs. Understanding distinctions between disability-related secondary conditions and age-related chronic conditions is a first step in identifying shared conditions that are important to address for both mid-life and older adults with disabilities. This review articulates these distinctions, describes shared conditions, and discusses the current lack of EBPs for both populations. It also provides recommendations for bridging activities in the United States by researchers, professionals, and consumer advocates. We argue that these can more efficiently move research and practice than if activities were undertaken separately in each field (aging and disability/rehabilitation).
Food and Beverage Marketing in Schools: A Review of the Evidence
Authors: Velazquez Cayley , Black Jennifer , Potvin Kent Monique
Published: September 2017

Despite growing interest from government agencies, non-governmental organizations and school boards in restricting or regulating unhealthy food and beverage marketing to children, limited research has examined the emerging knowledge base regarding school-based food and beverage marketing in high-income countries. This review examined current approaches for measuring school food and beverage marketing practices, and evidence regarding the extent of exposure and hypothesized associations with children’s diet-related outcomes. Five databases (MEDLINE, Web of Science, CINAHL, Embase, and PsycINFO) and six grey literature sources were searched for papers that explicitly examined school-based food and beverage marketing policies or practices. Twenty-seven papers, across four high-income countries including Canada (n = 2), Ireland (n = 1), Poland (n = 1) and United States (n = 23) were identified and reviewed. Results showed that three main methodological approaches have been used: direct observation, self-report surveys, and in-person/telephone interviews, but few studies reported on the validity or reliability of measures. Findings suggest that students in the U.S. are commonly exposed to a broad array of food and beverage marketing approaches including direct and indirect advertising, although the extent of exposure varies widely across studies. More pervasive marketing exposure was found among secondary or high schools compared with elementary/middle schools and among schools with lower compared with higher socio-economic status. Three of five studies examining diet-related outcomes found that exposure to school-based food and beverage marketing was associated with food purchasing or consumption, particularly for minimally nutritious items. There remains a need for a core set of standard and universal measures that are sufficiently rigorous and comprehensive to assess the totality of school food and beverage marketing practices that can be used to compare exposure between study contexts and over time. Future research should examine the validity of school food and beverage marketing assessments and the impacts of exposure (and emerging policies that reduce exposure) on children’s purchasing and diet-related knowledge, attitudes and behaviors in school settings.
“Autoimmune(-Like)” Drug and Herb Induced Liver Injury: New Insights into Molecular Pathogenesis
Authors: Sebode Marcial , Schulz Lisa , Lohse Ansgar
Published: September 2017

Idiosyncratic drug-induced liver injury (DILI) and hepatic injury due to herbal and dietary supplements (HDS) can adapt clinical characteristics of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), such as the appearance of autoantibodies and infiltration of the liver by immune competent cells. To describe these cases of DILI/HDS, the poorly-defined term “autoimmune(-like)” DILI/HDS came up. It is uncertain if these cases represent a subgroup of DILI/HDS with distinct pathomechanistic and prognostic features different from “classical” DILI/HDS. Besides, due to the overlap of clinical characteristics of “immune-mediated” DILI/HDS and AIH, both entities are not easy to differentiate. However, the demarcation is important, especially with regard to treatment: AIH requires long-term, mostly lifelong immunosuppression, whereas DILI/HDS does not. Only through exact diagnostic evaluation, exclusion of differential diagnoses and prolonged follow-up can the correct diagnosis reliably be made. Molecular mechanisms have not been analysed for the subgroup of “autoimmune(-like)” DILI/HDS yet. However, several pathogenetic checkpoints of DILI/HDS in general and AIH are shared. An analysis of these shared mechanisms might hint at relevant molecular processes of “autoimmune(-like)” DILI/HDS.
CAD Integrated Multipoint Adjoint-Based Optimization of a Turbocharger Radial Turbine
Authors: Mueller Lasse , Verstraete Tom
Published: September 2017

The adjoint method is considered as the most efficient approach to compute gradients with respect to an arbitrary number of design parameters. However, one major challenge of adjoint-based shape optimization methods is the integration into a computer-aided design (CAD) workflow for practical industrial cases. This paper presents an adjoint-based framework that uses a tailored shape parameterization to satisfy geometric constraints due to mechanical and manufacturing requirements while maintaining the shape in a CAD representation. The system employs a sequential quadratic programming (SQP) algorithm and in-house developed libraries for the CAD and grid generation as well as a 3D Navier–Stokes flow and adjoint solver. The developed method is applied to a multipoint optimization of a turbocharger radial turbine aiming at maximizing the total-to-static efficiency at multiple operating points while constraining the output power and the choking mass flow of the machine. The optimization converged in a few design cycles in which the total-to-static efficiency could be significantly improved over a wide operating range. Additionally, the imposed aerodynamic constraints with strict convergence tolerances are satisfied and several geometric constraints are inherently respected due to the parameterization of the turbine. In particular, radial fibered blades are used to avoid bending stresses in the turbine blades due to centrifugal forces. The methodology is a step forward towards robustness and consistency of gradient-based optimization for practical industrial cases, as it maintains the optimal shape in CAD representation. As shown in this paper, this avoids shape approximations and allows manufacturing constraints to be included.
Structure and Spin State of Iron(II) Assembled Complexes Using 9,10-Bis(4-pyridyl)anthracene as Bridging Ligand
Authors: Iwai Saki , Yoshinami Keisuke , Nakashima Satoru
Published: September 2017

Assembled complexes, [Fe(NCX)2(bpanth)2]n (X = S, Se, BH3; bpanth = 9,10-bis(4-pyridyl)anthracene), were synthesized. The iron for the three complexes was in temperature-independent high spin state by 57Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy and magnetic susceptibility measurement. X-ray structural analysis revealed the interpenetrated structure of [Fe(NCS)2(bpanth)2]n. In the local structure around the iron atom, the coordinated pyridine planes were shown to be a parallel type, which is in accordance with the results investigated by density functional theory (DFT) calculation. This complex (X = S) has CH–π interactions between the H atom of coordinated pyridine and the neighboring anthracene of the other 2D grid. It was suggested that the interpenetrated structure was supported by the stabilization of CH–π interaction, and this intermolecular interaction forced the relatively unstable parallel structure. That is, the unstable local structure is compensated by the stabilization due to intermolecular interaction, which controlled the spin state as high spin state.
Design, Fabrication and Performance Evaluation of an Inter-Row Cultivator for Sugarcane Fields
Authors: Khaehanchanpong Yuttana , Ahamed Tofael , Takigawa Tomohiro
Published: September 2017

The aims of this research were to design and fabricate an inter-row cultivator for mounting on a medium-sized tractor (25.3 or 37.3 kW) for sugarcane fields, and to assess the performance of the cultivator when harvesting is conducted either by hand or with a sugarcane harvester. Moreover, this study was also designed to assess the performance of the cultivator in mixing sugarcane residues in the field. The inter-row cultivator has a working width of 80 cm, a rotor shaft speed of 500 rpm, and a total weight of 518 kg. The cultivator comprises 18 European C-type blades attached to three disk holder flanges arranged in a spiral formation. Two notch-cutting discs were mounted on the front to cut and press the sugarcane leaves before they were chopped and mixed by the inter-row cultivator. The working performance test was conducted for different thicknesses of trash blankets while using the inter-row cultivator mounted on 25.3 kW- and 37.3 kW-size tractors. The effective field capacity for trash incorporation of the inter-row cultivator was 0.30 ha·h−1 when trash was left through harvesting by hand. On the other hand, effective field capacity was 0.31 ha·h−1 when a sugarcane harvester was used. Moreover, the field efficiency exceeded 90% in all tested fields, with greater soil inversion. The results also showed that the fuel consumption of both tractors was higher when harvesting by hand compared with harvesting using a harvester.
Chemical Composition and Monoterpenoid Enantiomeric Distribution of the Essential Oils from Apharsemon (Commiphora gileadensis)
Authors: Dudai Nativ , Shachter Alona , Satyal Prabodh , Setzer William
Published: September 2017

Background: Commiphora gileadensis (Hebrew: apharsemon) has been used since Biblical times to treat various ailments, and is used today in the traditional medicine of some Middle Eastern cultures. Methods: The essential oils from the stem bark, leaves, and fruits of Commiphora gileadensis—collected at the Ein Gedi Botanical Garden, Israel—were obtained by hydrodistillation and analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. In addition, the enantiomeric distributions of the monoterpenoids in the essential oils have been determined by chiral gas chromatography. Results: The essential oils were dominated by monoterpene hydrocarbons, followed by oxygenated monoterpenoids. The major components in C. gileadensis oils were the monoterpenes α-pinene (11.1–18.4%), sabinene (15.8–35.9%), β-pinene (5.8–18.0%), p-cymene (4.8–8.4%), limonene (1.3–6.2%), γ-terpinene (0.7–8.1%), and terpinen-4-ol (5.3–18.5%). The (–)-enantiomers predominated for α-pinene, sabinene, β-pinene, limonene, and terpinen-4-ol. Conclusions: The chemical compositions of the C. gileadensis essential oils from Israel are markedly different from previously reported samples, which were rich in sesquiterpenoids. Likewise, the enantiomeric distribution of monoterpenoids is very different from Boswellia spp. essential oils.
The Genus Artemisia: a 2012–2017 Literature Review on Chemical Composition, Antimicrobial, Insecticidal and Antioxidant Activities of Essential Oils
Authors: Pandey Abhay K. , Singh Pooja
Published: September 2017

Essential oils of aromatic and medicinal plants generally have a diverse range of activities because they possess several active constituents that work through several modes of action. The genus Artemisia includes the largest genus of family Asteraceae has several medicinal uses in human and plant diseases aliments. Extensive investigations on essential oil composition, antimicrobial, insecticidal and antioxidant studies have been conducted for various species of this genus. In this review, we have compiled data of recent literature (2012–2017) on essential oil composition, antimicrobial, insecticidal and antioxidant activities of different species of the genus Artemisia. Regarding the antimicrobial and insecticidal properties we have only described here efficacy of essential oils against plant pathogens and insect pests. The literature revealed that 1, 8-cineole, beta-pinene, thujone, artemisia ketone, camphor, caryophyllene, camphene and germacrene D are the major components in most of the essential oils of this plant species. Oils from different species of genus Artemisia exhibited strong antimicrobial activity against plant pathogens and insecticidal activity against insect pests. However, only few species have been explored for antioxidant activity.
DFT Modelling of Cu Segregation in Al-Cu Alloys Covered by an Ultrathin Oxide Film and Possible Links with Passivity
Authors: Cornette Pauline , Costa Dominique , Marcus Philippe
Published: September 2017

We modelled with Density Functional Theory (DFT) an Al-Cu alloy covered with a passive film, with several Cu concentrations (from the limit of the isolated atom to the monolayer) at the interface with the oxide, as well as Guinier-Preston 1 (GP1) zones. At low (respectively high) concentration, Cu segregates in the first (respectively second) metal layer underneath the passive film. The Cu monolayer is the most stable configuration (−0.37 eV/Cu atom). GP1 zones were modelled, with a three-copper atom cluster in the alloy. The GP1 zone is slightly favoured with respect to the Cu monolayer under the oxide film. A low (respectively high) Cu concentration induces an electronic workfunction increase (respectively decrease) by 0.3 eV (respectively −0.4 to −0.6 eV) as compared to pure Al. In contrast, without oxide, Cu segregation at the Al surface induces no workfunction change at low concentration and an increase of 0.3 eV of the workfunction at high concentration. Thus, the presence of oxide modifies the expected tendency of workfunction increase by adding a more noble metal. For the studied models, no spontaneous electron transfer occurs to the O2 molecule.
Evaluation of the Molecular Structural Parameters of Normal Rice Starch and Their Relationships with Its Thermal and Digestion Properties
Authors: Lin Lingshang , Zhang Qing , Zhang Long , Wei Cunxu
Published: September 2017

The molecular structural parameters of six normal rice starches with different amylose contents were investigated through their iodine absorption spectra and gel permeation chromatography of fully branched and debranched starches. The thermal and digestion properties of starches were also determined and their relationships with molecular structural parameters were analyzed. Results showed that the molecular structural parameters of maximum absorption wavelength, blue value (BV), optical density 620 nm/550 nm (OD 620/550), amylose, intermediate component, and amylopectin, including its short branch-chains, long branch-chains, and branching degree, had high correlation in different determining methods. The intermediate component of starch was significantly positively related to amylose and negatively related to amylopectin, and the amylopectin branching degree was significantly positively related to amylopectin content and negatively related to amylose content. The gelatinization temperatures and enthalpy of native starch were significantly positively related to BV, OD 620/550, and amylose content and negatively related to amylopectin short branch-chains. The gelatinization temperatures and enthalpy of retrograded starch were significantly negatively related to amylopectin branching degree. The digestions of gelatinized and retrograded starches were significantly negatively related to the BV, OD 620/550, amylose, and intermediate component and positively related to amylopectin and its short branch-chains and branching degree.
Effects of Sleep Quality on Melatonin Levels and Inflammatory Response after Major Abdominal Surgery in an Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Yaşar Necdet , Badak Bartu , Canik Ağgül , Baş Sema , Uslu Sema , Öner Setenay , Ateş Ersin
Published: September 2017

Disruption of nocturnal sleep in an intensive care unit may remarkably affect production of melatonin, which is also known to have anti-inflammatory properties. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the effect of sleep quality on melatonin levels and inflammation after surgery. Thus, we compared the patients, who were screened in the side-rooms where the lights were dimmed and noise levels were reduced, with the patients who received usual care. Preoperative and postoperative urine 6-sulphatoxymelatonin, serum interleukin-1 (IL-1), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and c-reactive protein (CRP) levels were measured and data on sleep quality was collected using the Richards–Campbell Sleep Questionnaire. Postoperative CRP and IL-6 levels were greater in the control group than in the experimental group, whereas postoperative 24 h melatonin levels were greater than preoperative levels and the difference was steeper in the experimental group in concordance with sleep quality scores. Thus, the regulation of light and noise in ICUs may help the recovery after major surgeries in patients, potentially by increasing melatonin production, which has anti-inflammatory properties.
Applicability of Earth Observation for Identifying Small-Scale Mining Footprints in a Wet Tropical Region
Authors: Isidro Celso , McIntyre Neil , Lechner Alex , Callow Ian
Published: September 2017

The unpredictable climate in wet tropical regions along with the spatial resolution limitations of some satellite imageries make detecting and mapping artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) challenging. The objective of this study was to test the utility of Pleiades and SPOT imagery with an object-based support vector machine (OB-SVM) classifier for the multi-temporal remote sensing of ASM and other land cover including a large-scale mine in the Didipio catchment in the Philippines. Historical spatial data on location and type of ASM mines were collected from the field and were utilized as training data for the OB-SVM classifier. The classification had an overall accuracy between 87% and 89% for the three different images—Pleiades-1A for the 2013 and 2014 images and SPOT-6 for the 2016 image. The main land use features, particularly the Didipio large-scale mine, were well identified by the OB-SVM classifier, however there were greater commission errors for the mapping of small-scale mines. The lack of consistency in their shape and their small area relative to pixel sizes meant they were often not distinguished from other land clearance types (i.e., open land). To accurately estimate the total area of each land cover class, we calculated bias-adjusted surface areas based on misclassification values. The analysis showed an increase in small-scale mining areas from 91,000 m2—or 0.2% of the total catchment area—in March 2013 to 121,000 m2—or 0.3%—in May 2014, and then a decrease to 39,000 m2—or 0.1%—in January 2016.
A Robotic Platform for Corn Seedling Morphological Traits Characterization
Authors: Lu Hang , Tang Lie , Whitham Steven , Mei Yu
Published: September 2017

Crop breeding plays an important role in modern agriculture, improving plant performance, and increasing yield. Identifying the genes that are responsible for beneficial traits greatly facilitates plant breeding efforts for increasing crop production. However, associating genes and their functions with agronomic traits requires researchers to observe, measure, record, and analyze phenotypes of large numbers of plants, a repetitive and error-prone job if performed manually. An automated seedling phenotyping system aimed at replacing manual measurement, reducing sampling time, and increasing the allowable work time is thus highly valuable. Toward this goal, we developed an automated corn seedling phenotyping platform based on a time-of-flight of light (ToF) camera and an industrial robot arm. A ToF camera is mounted on the end effector of the robot arm. The arm positions the ToF camera at different viewpoints for acquiring 3D point cloud data. A camera-to-arm transformation matrix was calculated using a hand-eye calibration procedure and applied to transfer different viewpoints into an arm-based coordinate frame. Point cloud data filters were developed to remove the noise in the background and in the merged seedling point clouds. A 3D-to-2D projection and an x-axis pixel density distribution method were used to segment the stem and leaves. Finally, separated leaves were fitted with 3D curves for morphological traits characterization. This platform was tested on a sample of 60 corn plants at their early growth stages with between two to five leaves. The error ratios of the stem height and leave length measurements are 13.7% and 13.1%, respectively, demonstrating the feasibility of this robotic system for automated corn seedling phenotyping.
A Robust Sparse Representation Model for Hyperspectral Image Classification
Authors: Huang Shaoguang , Zhang Hongyan , Pižurica Aleksandra
Published: September 2017

Sparse representation has been extensively investigated for hyperspectral image (HSI) classification and led to substantial improvements in the performance over the traditional methods, such as support vector machine (SVM). However, the existing sparsity-based classification methods typically assume Gaussian noise, neglecting the fact that HSIs are often corrupted by different types of noise in practice. In this paper, we develop a robust classification model that admits realistic mixed noise, which includes Gaussian noise and sparse noise. We combine a model for mixed noise with a prior on the representation coefficients of input data within a unified framework, which produces three kinds of robust classification methods based on sparse representation classification (SRC), joint SRC and joint SRC on a super-pixels level. Experimental results on simulated and real data demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method and clear benefits from the introduced mixed-noise model.
A Research on Electricity Generation from Wind Corridors of Pakistan (Two Provinces): A Technical Proposal for Remote Zones
Authors: Baloch Mazhar , Abro Safdar , Sarwar Kaloi Ghulam , Mirjat Nayyar , Tahir Sohaib , Nadeem M. , Gul Mehr , Memon Zubair , Kumar Mahendar
Published: September 2017

The non-renewable energy resources are limited and depleting gradually. As such, energy security has attained the greatest amount of attention globally than ever before. In the meantime, energy crises are already affecting the developing countries such as Pakistan, even though one-third of the population of the country is not even not connected to the national electricity grid. The population with access to on-grid electricity is enduring load shedding of more than 12 h a day. This situation is alarming and require immediate attention is required so as to add alternative energy resources to the country, which has long been relying on imported fuels. It is, therefore, high time that the abundant potential in the renewable energy resources of Pakistan such as solar, wind, and biomass are harnessed. These renewable energy resources are economical and environmentally friendly, and thus considered as sustainable, and the utilization of these in meeting energy demands can help to conserve conventional resources early diminishing. This paper provides a detailed description of the energy consumption and load-shedding scenario in Pakistan thereby focusing specifically Sindh and Baluchistan provinces. Since, wind energy is considered one of the cost-effective renewable resources, six potential sites in these two provinces are considered in this study. These sites lie within 250 km of the southeastern and 800 km of the southwestern regions of Pakistan. One-year wind speed data have been reported for variable heights of these proposed sites which represent to have an annual average wind speed of 6.63 m/s and 5.33 m/s respectively. The power generation data for these location of two provinces is 7.653 GWh, and 5.456 GWh per annum respectively. This study also elaborates on the advantages and disadvantages of harvesting and installing the wind energy and provides a technical proposal for the generation of electricity from the wind in the selected remote zones which are off the national grid. The findings of this paper will help concerned government departments to devise appropriate policies and attract investment in the wind energy sector to eradicate the on-going electricity crisis.
Towards a Conceptual Framework of Sustainable Business Model Innovation in the Agri-Food Sector: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Barth Henrik , Ulvenblad Per-Ola , Ulvenblad Pia
Published: September 2017

This paper aims to increase our understanding of sustainable business model innovation in the agri-food sector in terms of its theoretical and practical approaches for sustainability and their degree of complexity and maturity. The paper is based on a systematic literature review of 570 journal articles on business models and business model innovation published between 1990 and 2014. Of these articles, only 21 have business model innovation as their main focus. The review shows that research interest in the agri-food sector has increased in these years. The paper proposes a conceptual framework for sustainable business model innovation in the agri-food sector that can be used to meet the challenges encountered in taking a sustainability perspective.
Integrated Methodologies (SWOT, TOWS, LCA) for Improving Production Chains and Environmental Sustainability of Kiwifruit and Baby Kiwi in Italy
Authors: Baudino Claudio , Giuggioli Nicole Roberta , Briano Rossella , Massaglia Stefano , Peano Cristiana
Published: September 2017

Italy’s kiwifruit growers are considered to be world-leading players of the past 20 years. However, with this success come its challenges. In the last five years, a bacterial canker of kiwifruit known as Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae (Psa) has caused a dramatic reduction in the size of the areas cultivated, leading to several experienced Piedmontese Actinidia deliciosa growers beginning to cultivate the A. arguta. To better understand the potential for replacing the common kiwifruit in Italy’s Piedmont region with plantations of A. arguta and to attain a systematic approach and support for decision situations; we assessed the environmental impact of the two production chains (field and storage) from a technical-operational perspective. The assessment was conducted through interviews with producers, field and warehouse technicians and sales managers in order to reveal the strengths and weaknesses of the two systems. The work presented below considers the application of the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) method for the field system (two different phases of the plantation) and the SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) analysis for the entire supply chain (field and warehouse management). Finally, a TOWS analysis (Threats, Opportunities, Weakness, Strengths) integrated the results of both LCA and SWOT analyses and permitted to highlight the development strategies for A. arguta in Piedmont. The total orchard cycle for A. arguta presents an impact of 0.14 kg CO2 eq (GWP) and for A. deliciosa an impact of 0.11 kg CO2 eq (GWP). Based on the synthesis of results from our TOWS analysis, we identified the following development strategies to help to shape the future A. arguta supply chain in Piedmont: Large-scale oriented; Berry fruits oriented; Export and organic oriented and Niche oriented.
Does the Host Contribute to Modulation of Mycotoxin Production by Fruit Pathogens?
Authors: Kumar Dilip , Barad Shiri , Sionov Edward , Keller Nancy , Prusky Dov
Published: September 2017

Storage of freshly harvested fruit is a key factor in modulating their supply for several months after harvest; however, their quality can be reduced by pathogen attack. Fruit pathogens may infect their host through damaged surfaces, such as mechanical injuries occurring during growing, harvesting, and packing, leading to increased colonization as the fruit ripens. Of particular concern are fungal pathogens that not only macerate the host tissue but also secrete significant amounts of mycotoxins. Many studies have described the importance of physiological factors, including stage of fruit development, biochemical factors (ripening, C and N content), and environmental factors (humidity, temperature, water deficit) on the occurrence of mycotoxins. However, those factors usually show a correlative effect on fungal growth and mycotoxin accumulation. Recent reports have suggested that host factors can induce fungal metabolism, leading to the synthesis and accumulation of mycotoxins. This review describes the new vision of host-factor impact on the regulation of mycotoxin biosynthetic gene clusters underlying the complex regulation of mycotoxin accumulation in ripening fruit.
Spatial and Seasonal Variation of Biomineral Suspended Particulate Matter Properties in High-Turbid Nearshore and Low-Turbid Offshore Zones
Authors: Fettweis Michael , Lee Byung
Published: September 2017

Suspended particulate matter (SPM) is abundant and essential in marine and coastal waters, and comprises a wide variety of biomineral particles, which are practically grouped into organic biomass and inorganic sediments. Such biomass and sediments interact with each other and build large biomineral aggregates via flocculation, therefore controlling the fate and transport of SPM in marine and coastal waters. Despite its importance, flocculation mediated by biomass-sediment interactions is not fully understood. Thus, the aim of this research was to explain biologically mediated flocculation and SPM dynamics in different locations and seasons in marine and coastal waters. Field measurement campaigns followed by physical and biochemical analyses had been carried out from 2004 to 2011 in the Belgian coastal area to investigate bio-mediated flocculation and SPM dynamics. Although SPM had the same mineralogical composition, it encountered different fates in the turbidity maximum zone (TMZ) and in the offshore zone (OSZ), regarding bio-mediated flocculation. SPM in the TMZ built sediment-enriched, dense, and settleable biomineral aggregates, whereas SPM in the OSZ composed biomass-enriched, less dense, and less settleable marine snow. Biological proliferation, such as an algal bloom, was also found to facilitate SPM in building biomass-enriched marine snow, even in the TMZ. In short, bio-mediated flocculation and SPM dynamics varied spatially and seasonally, owing to biomass-sediment interactions and bio-mediated flocculation.
GPs’ perceptions of resilience training: a qualitative study
Authors: Cheshire Anna , Hughes John , Lewith George , Panagioti Maria , Peters David , Simon Chantal , Ridge Damien
Published: September 2017

Background

GPs are reporting increasing levels of burnout, stress, and job dissatisfaction, and there is a looming GP shortage. Promoting resilience is a key strategy for enhancing the sustainability of the healthcare workforce and improving patient care.

Aim

To explore GPs’ perspectives on the content, context, and acceptability of resilience training programmes in general practice, in order to build more effective GP resilience programmes.

Design and setting

This was a qualitative study of the perspectives of GPs currently practising in England.

Method

GPs were recruited through convenience sampling, and data were collected from two focus groups (n = 15) and one-to-one telephone interviews (n = 7). A semi-structured interview approach was used and data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Participants perceived resilience training to be potentially of value in ameliorating workplace stresses. Nevertheless, uncertainty was expressed regarding how best to provide training for stressed GPs who have limited time. Participants suspected that GPs most likely to benefit from resilience training were the least likely to engage, as stress and being busy worked against engagement. Conflicting views were expressed about the most suitable training delivery method for promoting better engagement. Participants also emphasised that training should not only place the focus on the individual, but also focus on organisation issues.

Conclusion

A multimodal, flexible approach based on individual needs and learning aims, including resilience workshops within undergraduate training and in individual practices, is likely to be the optimal way to promote resilience.
Building managed primary care practice networks to deliver better clinical care: a qualitative semi-structured interview study
Authors: Pawa Jasmine , Robson John , Hull Sally
Published: September 2017

Background

Primary care practices are increasingly working in larger groups. In 2009, all 36 primary care practices in the London borough of Tower Hamlets were grouped geographically into eight managed practice networks to improve the quality of care they delivered. Quantitative evaluation has shown improved clinical outcomes.

Aim

To provide insight into the process of network implementation, including the aims, facilitating factors, and barriers, from both the clinical and managerial perspectives.

Design and setting

A qualitative study of network implementation in the London borough of Tower Hamlets, which serves a socially disadvantaged and ethnically diverse population.

Method

Nineteen semi-structured interviews were carried out with doctors, nurses, and managers, and were informed by existing literature on integrated care and GP networks. Interviews were recorded and transcribed, and thematic analysis used to analyse emerging themes.

Results

Interviewees agreed that networks improved clinical care and reduced variation in practice performance. Network implementation was facilitated by the balance struck between ‘a given structure’ and network autonomy to adopt local solutions. Improved use of data, including patient recall and peer performance indicators, were viewed as critical key factors. Targeted investment provided the necessary resources to achieve this. Barriers to implementing networks included differences in practice culture, a reluctance to share data, and increased workload.

Conclusion

Commissioners and providers were positive about the implementation of GP networks as a way to improve the quality of clinical care in Tower Hamlets. The issues that arose may be of relevance to other areas implementing similar quality improvement programmes at scale.
Coffee Consumption and Prevention of Cirrhosis: In Support of the Caffeine Hypothesis
Authors: Dranoff Jonathan A.
Published: September 2017

Coffee is acknowledged as the most widely used drug worldwide. Coffee is also a foodstuff, so its use is often used to satisfy dietary urges. When used as a drug, coffee is normally consumed as a stimulant rather than to treat or prevent particular diseases. Recently, coffee consumption
has been inversely related to progression of liver fibrosis to cirrhosis and even hepatocellular carcinoma. Experiments in cellular and animal models have provided biological plausibility for coffee as an antifibrotic agent in the liver. A recent article examined one of the key questions regarding
the antifibrotic role of coffee—specifically what is the primary antifibrotic agent in coffee? This article briefly reviews the relevant issues with regard to coffee as an antifibrotic agent for patients with chronic liver disease.
Synthesis of benzannelated sultams by intramolecular Pd-catalyzed arylation of tertiary sulfonamides
Authors: Rassadin Valentin A , Scholz Mirko , Klochkova Anastasiia A , de Meijere Armin , Sokolov Victor V
Published: September 2017

A new and efficient approach to five- and six-membered benzannelated sultams by intramolecular C-arylation of tertiary 1-(methoxycarbonyl)methanesulfonamides under palladium catalysis is described. In case of the α-toluenesulfonamide derivative, an unexpected formation of a 2,3-diarylindole was observed under the same conditions.
COS-burst: Observations of the Impact of Starburst-driven Winds on the Properties of the Circum-galactic Medium
Authors: Heckman Timothy , Borthakur Sanchayeeta , Wild Vivienne , Schiminovich David , Bordoloi Rongmon
Published: September 2017

We report on observations made with the Cosmic Origins Spectrograph (COS) on the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) using background quasi-stellar objects to probe the circum-galactic medium (CGM) around 17 low-redshift galaxies that are undergoing or have recently undergone a strong starburst (the COS-Burst program). The sightlines extend out to roughly the virial radius of the galaxy halo. We construct control samples of normal star-forming low-redshift galaxies from the COS/HST archive that match the starbursts in terms of galaxy stellar mass and impact parameter. We find clear evidence that the CGM around the starbursts differs systematically compared to the control galaxies. The Lyα, Si iii, C iv, and possibly O vi absorption lines are stronger as a function of impact parameter, and the ratios of the equivalent widths of C iv/Lyα and Si iii/Lyα are both higher than in normal star-forming galaxies. We also find that the widths and the velocity offsets (relative to v
sys) of the Lyα absorption lines are significantly larger in the CGM of the starbursts, implying velocities of the absorbing material that are roughly twice the halo virial velocity. We show that these properties can be understood as a consequence of the interaction between a starburst-driven wind and the preexisting CGM. These results underscore the importance of winds driven from intensely star-forming galaxies in helping drive the evolution of galaxies and the intergalactic medium. They also offer a new probe of the properties of starburst-driven winds and of the CGM itself.
Éthique des soins et laïcité
Authors: de Charentenay Pierre
Published: September 2017

L’hôpital est un lieu de rencontre entre soignants et patients, chacun avec son histoire, sa culture et ses convictions religieuses. Comment faciliter cette rencontre et éviter les incompréhensions ? Comment régler les éventuels conflits pour que le service de la santé publique soit assuré ? Comment surtout répondre, en humanité, à la demande – souvent la souffrance – des patients ?
Les perceptions de la marque employeur au cours du processus de candidature
Authors: Charbonnier-Voirin Audrey , Marret Laura , Paulo Carolina
Published: September 2017

Cet article s’ intéresse à la manière dont les candidats recherchent et interprètent les informations à propos d’un potentiel employeur dans un contexte où les organisations, en particulier les grandes, utilisent de multiples sources de diffusion de leur marque employeur et dans lequel les candidats peuvent facilement trouver des informations plus informelles à leur sujet, notamment via leur réseau personnel et professionnel, réel ou virtuel. Une étude qualitative menée auprès de 20 personnes à la recherche d’un nouvel emploi propose d’analyser le processus par lequel les candidats se renseignent sur un potentiel employeur, les sources d’informations utilisées, les informations recherchées ainsi que les contenus plébiscités. Cette étude cherche à mieux comprendre comment les candidats perçoivent la teneur et la crédibilité des informations recueillies à propos d’un employeur potentiel et comment cela influence leurs attitudes à l’égard de l’employeur et leur décision de poursuivre, ou non, le processus de candidature.
Le blasphème, entre droit et théologie
Authors: Arbib Dan
Published: September 2017

Après une recontextualisation de l’œuvre législatrice de Maïmonide (I), cet article entend clarifier la position maïmonidienne sur le blasphème : l’interdit du blasphème apparaît comme l’un des commandements les plus importants (II), consistant à maudire Dieu par son propre nom (III), fondé sur le respect dû à l’autorité prescrit en Ex 22, 28 (IV) et visant à éviter l’idolâtrie (V). Le blasphème est ainsi d’une gravité hors-norme, péché sans pardon.
Development and Testing of a Neuropsychiatric Symptoms Model in Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Kirk Laura , Smith Glenn E. , Gaugler Joseph E. , Hepburn Ken , Knopman David , Lewis Marsha
Published: September 2017

Neuropsychiatric symptoms are prevalent in individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and have a significant detrimental effect on health and quality of life. Identifying factors that contribute to their occurrence may enable prompt treatment and intervention. The current study entails the development and testing of a biopsychosocially based model to assist nurses in the identification of individuals with MCI who are most likely to experience symptoms of depression, apathy, and/or anxiety. Factors within the biological and sociodemographic domains of the Neuropsychiatric Symptoms in MCI (NPSMCI) model were tested using multivariate logistic regression analyses. Findings suggest that age, presence of an e4 allele of the apolipoprotein E gene, living situation, and degree of comorbid illness were associated with the occurrence of symptoms of depression and apathy. Further testing and refinement are necessary, but the findings provide guidance to nurses and alert them to assess individuals most likely to experience these symptoms. [
Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 44
(1), 21–30.]