bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Scientific evidence supporting recommendations on the use of the 9-valent HPV vaccine in a 2-dose vaccine schedule in Australia
Authors: Wnukowski-Mtonga Peter , Jayasinghe Sanjay , Chiu Clayton , Macartney Kristine , Brotherton Julia , Donovan Basil , Hall Madeline , Smith David W , Peterson Karen , Campbell-Lloyd Sue , Selvey Christine , Giles Michelle , Kaldor John , Marshall Helen ,   the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI)
Published: April 2020

The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) updated recommendations on the use of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines in the Australian Immunisation Handbook in 2018, regarding the use of the recently available 9-valent (9vHPV) vaccine, Gardasil 9, and a 2-dose schedule for young adolescents for HPV vaccines. This report provides an overview of the relevant scientific evidence that underpinned these updated recommendations. The 9vHPV vaccine includes 5 HPV types (HPV 31, 33, 45, 52 and 58) additional to the 4 that are also covered by the 4vHPV (Gardasil) vaccine (HPV 6,11,16,18). Accordingly, the 9vHPV vaccine is expected to prevent an additional 15% of cervical cancers and up to 20% of other HPV-related cancers. Non-inferior antibody responses after two 9vHPV vaccine doses given 6–12 months apart in girls and boys aged 9–14 years compared to women aged 16–26 years after three doses support the 2-dose schedule for adolescents of this age group. In clinical trials 9vHPV vaccine was well-tolerated with a similar safety profile to 4vHPV vaccine. The switch to 9vHPV vaccine and a 2-dose schedule is anticipated to improve public acceptability of the program and reduce HPV-related disease in the long-term.
Relación entre la calidad de vida y los modos de afrontamiento al estrés en adolescentes embarazadas que se atienden en el Instituto Nacional Materno Perinatal de Lima
Authors: Guevara-Beltran Nora Patricia , Guevara Ríos Enrique
Published: April 2020

Objetivo. Determinar la relación entre las variables de modos de afrontamiento al estrés y calidad de vida en adolescentes gestantes atendidas en el Instituto Nacional Materno Perinatal. Materiales y métodos. Se realizó un estudio de tipo observacional, transversal y correlacional aplicando el cuestionario de modos de afrontamiento al estrés COPE y la escala de calidad de vida validados para el Perú. Resultados. Se evaluaron 350 gestantes adolescentes entre setiembre del 2017 a abril del 2018 en el servicio de adolescencia del INMP. No se encontró asociación entre los modos de afrontamiento y el nove de calidad de vida; sin embargo, las tres estrategias que mostraron una correlación significativa con el nivel de calidad de vida fueron: “Análisis de emociones”, “negación” y “distracción”. Las estrategias más usadas fueron la “reinterpretación” y “búsqueda del soporte social”. Conclusión: Una proporción considerable (38.3%) alcanzó un nivel de calidad de vida óptimos y las dimensiones más puntuadas fueron “medios de comunicación”, “vida familiar” y “familia extensa”.
Impacts of meltwater discharge from marine-terminating glaciers on the protist community in Inglefield Bredning, northwestern Greenland
Authors: Matsuno K , Kanna N , Sugiyama S , Yamaguchi A , Yang EJ
Published: April 2020

To evaluate the effects of meltwater discharge from marine-terminating glaciers on a fjord protist community in northwestern Greenland during summer, we investigated the distribution, abundance and biomass of the protist community and their relationships with hydrographic parameters. In the standing stock of protists, dinoflagellates (46.4%) and oligotrich ciliates (39.5%) were dominant throughout the study region. With respect to vertical distribution, oligotrich ciliates were abundant in the surface layer, mainly due to suitable food conditions (abundance of diatom and nanoflagellates). Near glaciers, relatively high chlorophylla(chla) concentrations were found in the subsurface layers associated with the low-temperature, high-turbidity and slightly high nutrient levels, indicating that the nutrient inputs from the upwelling glacial meltwater plume increased primary production. Large-sizedProtoperidiumspp. were found only at stations near glaciers where nutrients were abundant, and heterotrophic dinoflagellates showed strong relationships with nanoflagellates. These findings suggest that the upwelling associated with subglacial meltwater discharge can stimulate nanoflagellate production, resulting in increases in ciliate and heterotrophic dinoflagellate production.
Host, seasonal and habitat influences on incidence of Lernaeenicus radiatus (Copepoda: Pennellidae) in the mid-Atlantic Bight
Authors: Lovy J , Lewis NL , Friend SE , Able KW , Shaw MJ , Hinks GS , Clarke PJ
Published: April 2020

Lernaeenicus radiatus is a pennellid copepod with a 2-host life cycle that exhibits high host-specificity to their first host, black sea bass Centropristis striata. This parasite was prevalent in the gills of black sea bass juveniles and adults along the coast of New Jersey, USA, April to December 2019. Parasite incidence was high in the summer and fall in near-shore areas and dropped significantly in fish from deep waters further off-shore in December. Heavy infections of L. radiatus occurred in gills of adult black sea bass inhabiting reef-associated structures, in which parasite incidence rate was 2-3.7 times higher than in non-structure habitat. Less host-specificity occurred in second hosts which support female metamorphosis. In total, 7 fish species were confirmed as second hosts, with the most common being Atlantic menhaden Brevoortia tyrannus and bay anchovy Anchoa mitchilli. Incidence of L. radiatus depends on host abundance and habitats that support interactions of the preferred fish hosts, which may explain the heavy infections in reef habitats. The L. radiatus anchor process in metamorphosed females was highly polymorphic, depending on tissue tropism. Parasite length varied considerably, with neck and trunk measurements of L. radiatus from adult menhaden being 2-4 times larger than those from smaller host species. Mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase c subunit I (COI) sequences demonstrated all parasites to be L. radiatus, with sequence divergence limited to 0.3%. These findings show that morphology of the metamorphosed females has poor taxonomic value, and polymorphisms instead are related to attachment site and host characteristics.
Signs of Myelin Impairment in Cerebrospinal Fluid After Osmotic Opening of the Blood-Brain Barrier in Rats
Authors: KOZLER P. , SOBEK O. , POKORNÝ J.
Published: April 2020

A number of clinical neurological pathologies are associated with increased permeability of the blood brain barrier (BBB). Induced changes of the homeostatic mechanisms in the brain microenvironment lead among others to cellular changes in the CNS. The question was whether some of these changes can be induced by osmotic opening of BBB in an in vivo experiment and whether they can be detected in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). CSF was taken via the suboccipital puncture from 10 healthy rats and six rats after the osmotic opening of the BBB. In all 16 animals, concentration of myelin basic protein (MBP ng/ml), Neuron-specific enolase (NSE ng/ml) and Tau-protein (Tau pg/ml) were determined in CSF by ELISA. Values in both groups were statistically evaluated. Significant difference between the control and experimental group was revealed only for the concentration of myelin basic protein (p<0.01). The presented results indicate that osmotic opening of the BBB in vivo experiment without the presence of other pathological conditions of the brain leads to a damage of myelin, without impairment of neurons or their axons.
Different Doxorubicin Formulations Affect Plasma 4-Hydroxy-2-Nonenal and Gene Expression of Aldehyde Dehydrogenase 3A1 and Thioredoxin Reductase 2 in Rat
Authors: HLAVÁČOVÁ M. , GUMULEC J. , STRAČINA T. , FOJTŮ M. , RAUDENSKÁ M. , MASAŘÍK M. , NOVÁKOVÁ M. , PAULOVÁ H.
Published: April 2020

Increased oxidative stress is indisputably an important mechanism of doxorubicin side effects, especially its cardiotoxicity. To prevent impairment of non-tumorous tissue and to improve the specificity in targeting the tumor tissue, new drug nanotransporters are developed. In many cases preclinical therapeutic advantage has been shown when compared with the administration of conventional drug solution. Three forms of doxorubicin – conventional (DOX), encapsulated in liposomes (lipoDOX) and in apoferritin (apoDOX) were applied to Wistar rats. After 24 h exposition, the plasma level of 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4-HNE) as a marker of lipoperoxidation and tissue gene expression of thioredoxin reductase 2 (TXNRD2) and aldehyde dehydrogenase 3A1 (ALDH3A1) as an important part of antioxidative system were determined. Only conventional DOX significantly increases the level of 4-HNE; encapsulated forms on the other hand show significant decrease in plasma levels of 4 HNE in comparison with DOX. They also cause significant decrease in gene expression of ALDH3A1 and TXNRD2 in liver as a main detoxification organ, and a mild influence on the expression of these enzymes in left heart ventricle as a potential target of toxicity. Thus, 4-HNE seems to be a good potential biomarker of oxidative stress induced by various forms of doxorubicin.
The Effect of Oleic and Palmitic Acid on Induction of Steatosis and Cytotoxicity on Rat Hepatocytes in Primary Culture
Authors: MORAVCOVÁ A. , ČERVINKOVÁ Z. , KUČERA O. , MEZERA V. , RYCHTRMOC D. , LOTKOVÁ H.
Published: April 2020

In vitro models serve as a tool for studies of steatosis. Palmitic and oleic acids can induce steatosis in cultured hepatocytes. The aim of our study was to verify steatogenic and cytotoxic effects of palmitic acid (PA), oleic acid (OA) and their combinations as well as their impact on functional capacity of rat primary hepatocytes. Hepatocytes were exposed to OA or PA (0.125-2 mmol/l) or their combination at ratios of 3:1, 2:1 or 1:1 at the final concentrations of 0.5-1 mmol/l. Both OA and PA caused a dose-dependent increase in triacylglycerol content in hepatocytes. PA was more steatogenic at 0.25 and 0.5 mmol/l while OA at 0.75 and 1 mmol/l. PA exhibited a dose-dependent cytotoxic effect associated with ROS production, present markers of apoptosis and necrosis and a decrease in albumin production. OA induced a damage of the cytoplasmic membrane from 1 mM concentration. Mixture of OA and PA induced lower cytotoxicity with less weakened functional capacity than did PA alone. Extent of steatosis was comparable to that after exposure to OA alone. In conclusion, OA or combination of OA with PA is more suitable for simulation of simple steatosis than PA alone.
PHASE RELATION STUDIES IN THE CeO2-La2O3-Eu2O3 SYSTEM AT 1250 °С
Authors: Kornienko Oksana , Bykov Oleksandr , Sameliuk Аnatoliy , Yurchenko Yuri
Published: April 2020

Using the methods of physicochemical analysis (XRD, petrography, scanning electron microscopy analyses) phase equilibria were firstly investigated in the ternary system СeO2–La2O3–Eu2O3 system at 1250 ºС. It was established that in the system there exist fields of solid solutions based on cubic with fluorite-type structure (F) and cubic (С) and monoclinic (B) modification Eu2O3 and hexagonal (A) modification of La2O3. No new phases were found. The refined lattice parameters of the unit cells for solid solutions for the systems were determined. The cubic ceria-based solid solution has a ﬂuorite-type structure and homogeneity ﬁeld shows the maximum extension. It forms solid solutions of substitution type with phases of binary systems. The boundary of the homogeneity ﬁeld of F-phase is curved from the center of triangle toward the CeO2 corner and passes through appropriate points in the binary CeО2-Eu2O3(100-69 mol % CeO2) and CeO2–La2O3 (100-51 mol% CeO2) systems. The lattice parameters for F phase vary from  а = 0.5409 nm in pure СеО2toа = 0.5512 nm in two-phase sample (F + C) containing 55 mol % CeО2-22.5 mol % La2O3-22.5 mol % Eu2O3and to а = 0.5526 nm in  three-phase sample (F + В  + C) containing 40 mol % CeО2-30 mol % La2O3-30 mol % Eu2O3 and to а = 0.5532 nm in  three-phase sample (А + F + В) containing 30 mol % CeО2-35 mol % La2O3-35 mol % Eu2O3along the section CeO2 ( 50 mol % La2O3-35 mol % Eu2O3). The lattice parameters for F phase vary from  а = 0.5409 nm in pure СеО2 to а = 0.5444 nm nm in two-phase sample (F + C), containing 70 mol % CeО2-3 mol % La2O3-27 mol % Eu2O3and to а = 0.5465 nm in  three-phase sample (F + В  + C) containing 20 mol % CeО2-8 mol % La2O3-72 mol % Eu2O3. The homogeneity field of solid solution based on A-La2O3 extends to 17 mol % СеO2 and 20 mol % Eu2O3 in the corresponding binary systems and locates near the composition 5 mol % CeO2-90 mol % La2O3-5 mol % Eu2O3 on the section La2О3 - (50 mol % CeО2-50 mol % Eu2О3). The boundary of the homogeneity ﬁeld of B- Eu2O3 phase passes through appropriate points in the binary CeО2-EuO3 (0-1 mol% CeO2) and–Eu2O3 (0-25 mol% La2O3) systems. The isothermal section of the CeO2– La2O3–Eu2O3 system at 1250°C contains four three-phase regions (A+F+B, F+B+C) and five two-phase regions (F+A, A+B, F+B, B+C, F+C).
Analysis of the Rare Woody Plants Used in Greenery for Phytogeographic Region, Life Form and IUCN Categories
Authors: Novruzov V. , Iskender E. , Mammadov T. , Abbasov R. , Rustamova F. , Bagirova Sh.
Published: April 2020

According to hazard categories (IUCN), 46 species from 35 genera were identified belonging to 24 families of rare tree and shrub plants common in the natural flora of Azerbaijan used for landscaping Absheron. As a result of the analysis, it was found that the NT category (almost endangered) includes 12 species, and the CR category (endangered) includes 8 species. The plant species studied in the article were also analyzed by phytogeographic region and life forms. The results of the study showed that in addition to landscaping, other measures for the protection of the studied plants are necessary.
Effectiveness of Surgical Treatment of Muscular Torticollis in Children
Authors: Emilbekov M. , Uzakbayev M. , Amiraev N.
Published: April 2020

The article presents the results of surgical treatment, i.e. minimally invasive surgery using a new technique, in 72 children with a diagnosis of Torticollis who were hospitalized in National Center for Maternal and Child Welfare, Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. The optimized method of performing surgical treatment of the Torticollis allows improving the outcomes of surgery, which is confirmed by the absence of complications, a higher number of good outcomes (P< 0.05).
State of the Electromechanical Activity of the Heart and Intracardiac Hemodynamics in Children with Recurrent Bronchitis
Authors: Shaiderova I.
Published: April 2020

The article presents a comparative analysis of indicators of electromechanical activity and cardiohemodynamics in children of the first 3 years of life, patients with recurrent bronchitis. The direction and frequency of changes in the electro– and echocardiogram in sick children in the age aspect were determined.
On Living-related Transplantation
Authors: Tashpolotov K.
Published: April 2020

Article describes the judgment on the nature of living-related transplantation. We must proceed from the fact that any patient who is doomed to death, while breathing, remains a person aimed at the future. With a related organ transplant, doctors act morally, but with elements of error. And if you take into account the fact those doctors have an alternative way — transplantation of organs taken from a corpse; that is, in a linear order, then they would act morally without any reservations. In moral matters, doctors should strive for an affordable optimum, guided by moral responsibility.
Simulation Study on the Blocking Effect and Vibration Reduction Characteristics of Acoustic Black Hole in Thin Plate
Authors: Liu Z. , Zhou Y. , Golyanin A.
Published: April 2020

Recently, more and more scholars have devoted themselves to researching new methods of vibration reduction and noise reduction by manipulating the elastic waves in the structure to achieve the purpose of vibration reduction and noise reduction. To this end, a new type of ‘acoustic black hole’ structure is proposed, which reduces structural vibration while avoiding problems such as mass increase. In this paper, the vibration damping performance of the structure is mainly calculated by finite element software, and the energy concentration effect of the thin plate containing the acoustic black hole is verified by finite element analysis. A thin plate structure with four acoustic black holes is proposed. The calculation shows that the structure has obvious vibration reduction effect, and the vibration reduction effect can reach more than 20dB at high frequency.
Nutrition on Aircrafts: a Menu Analysis (Part 2)
Authors: Berketova L. , Iginova R.
Published: April 2020

As already noted in the previous work, “Nutrition on Aircrafts: a Menu Analysis (Part 1)”, the organization of passenger service for air transport consists not only in the transportation of passengers, but also in the organization of meals on board airliners. The assortment of dishes depends on many factors such as: budget of the airline, season, flight duration, class of service, departure time, national characteristics and category of passengers. In this paper, the menus of Nordwind Airlines and Azur Air are considered. The airline “Nordwind Airlines” at the stage of purchasing tickets offers its passengers the opportunity to form their diet from the proposed list of dishes for an additional fee. Typically, the list includes chicken dishes, meat dishes, pilaf and special nutrition (vegetarian nutrition and nutrition for children), there is also the option “Guaranteed nutrition”, which, depending on the duration of the flight, includes soft drinks; hot nutrition; Tea coffee. “Azur Air” Airlines in the standard package of services provides snacks during the flight or does not provide on-board nutrition at all. Nevertheless, there are several services with which you can receive ready-made culinary products for an additional fee. The airline cooperates with Fly Service LLC (St. Petersburg), which provides various catering services, including on board an airplane. The Restaurant on Board service is available only upon departure from Pulkovo Airport (St. Petersburg). The information on the international rating according to the Skytrax World Airline Awards of the world according to the criterion of “Airline Catering” is presented. Among Russian airlines, only Aeroflot in the Economy Class nomination is present in international ratings. The paper presents a menu with the calculation of nutritional value and calorie content.
Sosyal Bilgiler Öğretmen Adayları İçin Farklı Bir Deneyim: Araştırmacı Öğretmen Modeli
Authors: Akhan Nadire Emel , Demirezen Serpil
Published: April 2020

Bu araştırmanın amacı, sosyal bilgiler öğretmen adaylarının “Araştırmacı Öğretmen Modeli” hakkında bilgi sahibi olmalarını sağlamak, araştırmacı öğretmen olmaları yönünde gelişimlerini ortaya koymak ve sürece dair görüşlerini incelemektir. Bu amaç doğrultusunda sosyal bilgiler öğretmen adaylarına 10 hafta boyunca Araştırmacı Öğretmen Modeli (AÖM) hakkında seminer verilmiştir. Araştırmanın çalışma grubunu 2017-2018 eğitim öğretim döneminde Akdeniz Bölgesinde bir devlet üniversitesinde öğrenim gören 57 sosyal bilgiler öğretmenliği son sınıf öğretmen adayı oluşturmuştur. Araştırmada karma yöntem kullanılmıştır. Araştırmanın nicel kısmında ön test - son test kontrol grupsuz deneysel araştırma deseni kullanılmıştır. Ayrıca nicel verileri desteklemek ve süreci değerlendirmek için çalışma grubundan nitel veriler alınmıştır. Araştırmanın verileri, uygulama sürecinde belirlenen kazanımlar doğrultusunda, uzman görüşleri alınarak araştırmacılar tarafından hazırlanan 15 maddelik AÖM Değerlendirme Ölçeği ile toplanmıştır. Araştırmada ayrıca nicel verileri desteklemek amacıyla uzman görüşü alınarak hazırlanmış açık uçlu sorulardan oluşan bir form ile öğretmen adaylarından nitel veriler de alınmıştır. Araştırmanın verileri SPSS programı ve betimsel analiz ile analiz edilmiştir. Araştırmanın sonuçları genel olarak değerlendirildiğinde çalışma grubundaki sosyal bilgiler öğretmen adaylarının AÖM seminerinin kazanımlarına ulaştığını ve seminerin öğretmen adaylarını araştırmacı öğretmen olma yolunda olumlu etkilediğini söylemek mümkündür.
Sosyal Bilgiler Öğretmen Adaylarının Tarih Bilinci ve Tarih Derslerindeki İlgi Alanları
Authors: Utkugün Ceren , Koca M. Kürşat
Published: April 2020

Bu
araştırmanın amacı Sosyal Bilgiler Eğitimi Anabilim Dalında öğrenimlerini
sürdüren öğretmen adaylarının tarih bilinci ve tarih derslerindeki ilgi
alanlarını belirlemektir. Araştırmada tarama modeli kullanılmıştır. Bu bağlamda
2018-2019 yılında Afyon Kocatepe Üniversitesi Eğitim Fakültesi Sosyal Bilgiler
Eğitimi Anabilim Dalında öğrenimlerini sürdüren 203 öğretmen adayı araştırmanın
katılımcılarını oluşturmuştur. Elde edilen veriler “Gençlerin Tarih Bilinci
Üzerine Karşılaştırmalı Avrupa Projesi”nin Türkiye uygulaması sorularından
yararlanarak hazırlanan anket formu ile toplanmıştır. Verilerin analizinde
istatistik paket programı yardımıyla betimsel istatistik (yüzde ve frekans
dağılımları) teknikleri kullanılmıştır. Araştırmanın sonucuna göre; öğretmen
adayları tarih alanının önemini ve hayatlarıyla olan ilgisini kabul
etmişlerdir. Tarihi yol gösterici, günceli açıklamada yararlı, toplumu
yönlendirici, etkileyici, macera ve heyecan kaynağı olarak tanımlayan öğretmen
adayları tarihin sunuluşunda somut, elle tutulur, gözle görülür bir şekilde
yansıtılmasının önemini vurgulamışlardır. Öğretmen adaylarının tarih
derslerindeki ilgi alanları ise kendi kültürel değerleri ve coğrafyalarıyla
ilişkilendirdikleri konulara yoğunlaşmıştır.
Taluppfattningsutveckling i förskoleklass
Authors: Samuelsson Joakim
Published: April 2020

Skolan ska vara likvärdig och alla elever har rätt till en utbildning av hög kvalitet. För att möta alla elever kan skolor ha olika pedagogiska inriktningar vad gäller vad som fokuseras i undervisningen och hur undervisningen bedrivs. I denna artikel presenteras en studie om hur barn i förskoleklass i segregerat område utvecklades i grundläggande matematik jämfört med jämnåriga elever i mindre segregerat område.
Pan-Drug Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii, but Not Other Strains, Are Resistant to the Bee Venom Peptide Melittin
Authors: Rangel Karyne , Curty Lechuga Guilherme , Almeida Souza André Luis , Rangel da Silva Carvalho João Pedro , Simões Villas Bôas Maria Helena , De Simone Salvatore Giovanni
Published: April 2020

Acinetobacter baumannii is a prevalent pathogen in hospital settings with increasing importance in infections associated with biofilm production. Due to a rapid increase in its drug resistance and the failure of commonly available antibiotics to treat A. baumannii infections, this bacterium has become a critical public health issue. For these multi-drug resistant A. baumannii, polymyxin antibiotics are considered the only option for the treatment of severe infections. Concerning, several polymyxin-resistant A. baumannii strains have been isolated over the last few years. This study utilized pan drug-resistant (PDR) strains of A. baumannii isolated in Brazil, along with susceptible (S) and extreme drug-resistant (XDR) strains in order to evaluate the in vitro activity of melittin, an antimicrobial peptide, in comparison to polymyxin and another antibiotic, imipenem. From a broth microdilution method, the determined minimum inhibitory concentration showed that S and XDR strains were susceptible to melittin. In contrast, PDR A. baumannii was resistant to all treatments. Treatment with the peptide was also observed to inhibit biofilm formation of a susceptible strain and appeared to cause permanent membrane damage. A subpopulation of PDR showed membrane damage, however, it was not sufficient to stop bacterial growth, suggesting that alterations involved with antibiotic resistance could also influence melittin resistance. Presumably, mutations in the PDR that have arisen to confer resistance to widely used therapeutics also confer resistance to melittin. Our results demonstrate the potential of melittin to be used in the control of bacterial infections and suggest that antimicrobial peptides can serve as the basis for the development of new treatments.
The Effectiveness of Chlorhexidine and Air Polishing System in the Treatment of Candida albicans Infected Dental Implants: An Experimental In Vitro Study
Authors: Passarelli Pier Carmine , De Leonardis Marta , Piccirillo Giovan Battista , Desantis Viviana , Papa Raffaele , Rella Edoardo , Mastandrea Bonaviri Giuseppe Niccolò , Papi Piero , Pompa Giorgio , Pasquantonio Guido , Manicone Paolo Francesco , D’Addona Antonio
Published: April 2020

Background: Peri-implantitis is an inflammatory disease with an increasing diffusion rate which can affect the long-term survival of a prosthetic rehabilitation. The present study focused on the decontaminating efficacy of chlorhexidine and air polishing system with sodium bicarbonate powder against Candida albicans, a microorganism which seems to have a superinfecting opportunistic role in the pathology. The aim of the authors was to investigate and compare the effectiveness of these treatments, commonly used in clinical practice. Methods: An in vitro study was conducted to analyze the effects of two widely used therapeutic aids for the disinfection of affected titanium implants: chlorhexidine (CHX) and air polishing with sodium bicarbonate powder (P). A qualitative and quantitative comparative analysis of the residual biofilm was carried out using a colorimetric assay (XTT) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observation. The experiment was conducted both on machined titanium surfaces and on rough sandblasted ones with the aim of bringing out differences in the therapeutic outcomes concerning the superficial texture of the implant. The null hypothesis was that no difference could be detected between the samples, regarding both the treatments performed and the nano-structural features of titanium. Results: The best results (on both types of implant surfaces) were obtained when combining the use of chlorhexidine and air polishing (C + P). A linear decrease in the optical density (OD) values recorded at three different time points (30 s, 1 min, 5 min) was also observed passing from the first to the last one. When observed under scanning electron microscope rough surfaces showed an extensive and highly structured biofilm, more complex if compared to the one encountered when analyzing machined implants. Conclusions: the present pilot study showed that rough surfaces can promote fungal adhesion and eventually hinder the outcome of a decontaminating treatment. For this purpose, the physio-chemical technique is always more efficient if compared to a single-technique approach regardless of the surface characteristics.
Antimicrobial Activity of Silver-Treated Bacteria against other Multi-Drug Resistant Pathogens in Their Environment
Authors: Mohamed Doaa Safwat , Abd El-Baky Rehab Mahmoud , Sandle Tim , Mandour Sahar A. , Ahmed Eman Farouk
Published: April 2020

Silver is a potent antimicrobial agent against a variety of microorganisms and once the element has entered the bacterial cell, it accumulates as silver nanoparticles with large surface area causing cell death. At the same time, the bacterial cell becomes a reservoir for silver. This study aims to test the microcidal effect of silver-killed E. coli O104: H4 and its supernatant against fresh viable cells of the same bacterium and some other species, including E. coli O157: H7, Multidrug Resistant (MDR) Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Silver-killed bacteria were examined by Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). Agar well diffusion assay was used to test the antimicrobial efficacy and durability of both pellet suspension and supernatant of silver-killed E. coli O104:H4 against other bacteria. Both silver-killed bacteria and supernatant showed prolonged antimicrobial activity against the tested strains that extended to 40 days. The presence of adsorbed silver nanoparticles on the bacterial cell and inside the cells was verified by TEM. Silver-killed bacteria serve as an efficient sustained release reservoir for exporting the lethal silver cations. This promotes its use as a powerful disinfectant for polluted water and as an effective antibacterial which can be included in wound and burn dressings to overcome the problem of wound contamination.
A Global Study by 1H NMR Spectroscopy and SPME-GC/MS of the in Vitro Digestion of Virgin Flaxseed Oil Enriched or not with Mono-, Di- or Tri-Phenolic Derivatives. Antioxidant Efficiency of These Compounds
Authors: Alberdi-Cedeño Jon , Ibargoitia María L. , Guillén María D.
Published: April 2020

The effect of enriching virgin flaxseed oil with dodecyl gallate, hydroxytyrosol acetate or gamma-tocopherol on its in vitro digestion is studied by means of proton nuclear magnetic resonance and solid phase microextraction followed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. The extent and pattern of the lipolysis reached in each sample is analyzed, as is the bioaccessibility of the main oil components. None of the phenolic compounds provokes inhibition of the lipase activity and all of them reduce the lipid oxidation degree caused by the in vitro digestion and the bioaccessibility of oxidation compounds. The antioxidant efficiency of the three tested phenols is in line with the number of phenolic groups in its molecule, and is dose-dependent. The concentration of some minor oil components such as terpenes, sesquiterpenes, cycloartenol and 24-methylenecycloartenol is not modified by in vitro digestion. Contrarily, gamma-tocopherol shows very low in vitro bioaccessibility, probably due to its antioxidant behavior, although this increases with enrichment of the phenolic compounds. Oxidation is produced during in vitro digestion even in the presence of a high concentration of gamma-tocopherol, which remains bioaccessible after digestion in the enriched samples of this compound.
Improving Mental Performance in an Athletic Population with the Use of Ārepa®, a Blackcurrant Based Nootropic Drink: A Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Gibson Natalie , Baker Dane , Sharples Alice , Braakhuis Andrea
Published: April 2020

A range of dietary bioactive ingredients have claimed to improve mental clarity and reduce fatigue, including blackcurrant, pine bark, and l-theanine. These active ingredients provide a good source of dietary polyphenols which could be useful in reducing mental fatigue in a sports setting. The aim of the investigation was to test the effect of Ārepa® a blackcurrant-based nootropic-drink also containing pine-bark and l-theanine (BC+), on mental clarity in a sport setting. Twenty-three rugby league players completed a cross-over design, randomized, double-blind, controlled trial. Intervention and control phases lasted 7 days, with a washout in between. Cognition was assessed pre and post intervention following a standardized training session. Our study found the total score, accuracy, and average time per response scores improved significantly more after drinking the BC+ drink (p = 0.001, 0.003, and 0.043 respectively). The BC+ improved the perception that participants were reliable (p = 0.02) and less distracted (p = 0.03), while placebo supplementation increased participant perception they could control their nervousness (p = 0.03). Thematic analysis of post-trial questionnaire indicated participants found the BC+ sour, most reported no side effects, and opinion on which drink was more effective was not unanimous. The results indicate that the BC+ drink may be useful for athletes.
Some Algorithms to Solve a Bi-Objectives Problem for Team Selection
Authors: Ngo Tung Son , Bui Ngoc Anh , Tran Thi Thuy , Le Phuong Chi , Bui Dinh Chien , Nguyen The Duy , Phan Lac Duong , Kieu Quoc Tuan , Nguyen Ba Son , Tran Son N.
Published: April 2020

In real life, many problems are instances of combinatorial optimization. Cross-functional team selection is one of the typical issues. The decision-maker has to select solutions among ( k h ) solutions in the decision space, where k is the number of all candidates, and h is the number of members in the selected team. This paper is our continuing work since 2018; here, we introduce the completed version of the Min Distance to the Boundary model (MDSB) that allows access to both the “deep” and “wide” aspects of the selected team. The compromise programming approach enables decision-makers to ignore the parameters in the decision-making process. Instead, they point to the one scenario they expect. The aim of model construction focuses on finding the solution that matched the most to the expectation. We develop two algorithms: one is the genetic algorithm and another based on the philosophy of DC programming (DC) and its algorithm (DCA) to find the optimal solution. We also compared the introduced algorithms with the MIQP-CPLEX search algorithm to show their effectiveness.
Carbon-Efficient Virtual Machine Placement Based on Dynamic Voltage Frequency Scaling in Geo-Distributed Cloud Data Centers
Authors: Renugadevi T. , Geetha K. , Prabaharan Natarajan , Siano Pierluigi
Published: April 2020

The tremendous growth of big data analysis and IoT (Internet of Things) has made cloud computing an integral part of society. The prominent problem associated with data centers is the growing energy consumption, which results in environmental pollution. Data centers can reduce their carbon emissions through efficient management of server power consumption for a given workload. Dynamic voltage frequency scaling (DVFS) can be applied to control the operating frequencies of the servers based on the workloads assigned to them, as this approach has a cubic increment relationship with power consumption. This research work proposes two DVFS-enabled host selection algorithms for virtual machine (VM) placement with a cluster selection strategy, namely the carbon and power-efficient optimal frequency (C-PEF) algorithm and the carbon-aware first-fit optimal frequency (C-FFF) algorithm.The main aims of the proposed algorithms are to balance the load among the servers and dynamically tune the cooling load based on the current workload. The cluster selection strategy is based on static and dynamic power usage effectiveness (PUE) values and the carbon footprint rate (CFR). The cluster selection is also extended to non-DVFS host selection policies, namely the carbon- and power-efficient (C-PE) algorithm, carbon-aware first-fit (C-FF) algorithm, and carbon-aware first-fit least-empty (C-FFLE) algorithm. The results show that C-FFF achieves 2% more power reduction than C-PEF and C-PE, and demonstrates itself as a power-efficient algorithm for CO2 reduction, retaining the same quality of service (QoS) as its counterparts with lower computational overheads.
Development of an Analyzing and Tuning Methodology for the CNC Parameters Based on Machining Performance
Authors: Yu Ben-Fong , Chen Jenq-Shyong
Published: April 2020

This paper proposes the development of a tuning methodology which can set the proper values of the Computer Numerical Control (CNC) parameters to achieve the required machining performance. For the conventional operators of machine tools, the CNC parameters were hard to be adjusted to optimal settings, which was a complicated and time-consuming task. To save time in finding optimal CNC parameters, the objective of this research was to develop a practical methodology to tune the CNC parameters effectively for easy implementation in the commercial CNC controller. Firstly, the effect of the CNC parameters in the CNC controller on the tool-path planning was analyzed via experiments. The machining performance was defined in the high-speed (HS) mode, the high-accuracy (HP) mode, and the high-surface-quality (HQ) mode, according to the dynamic errors of several specified paths. Due to the CNC parameters that have a particularly critical effect on the dynamic errors, the relationship between the CNC parameters and the dynamic errors was validated by the measured data. Finally, the tuning procedure defined the anticipated dynamic errors for the three machining modes with the actual machine. The CNC parameters will correspond with anticipated dynamics errors based on several specified paths. The experimental results showed that the HS mode was the fastest to complete the path, and the completion time of the HP and HQ modes were increased by 37% and 6%, respectively. The HP mode had the smallest dynamic errors than other modes, and the dynamic errors of the HS and HQ modes are increased by 66% and 16%. In the HQ mode, the motion oscillation was reduce significantly, and the tracking error of the HS and HP modes were increased by 85% and 28%. The advantage of the methodology is that it simplifies set-up steps of the CNC parameters, making it suitable for practical machine applications.
A Steady-State Model to Simulate Groundwater Flow in Unconfined Aquifer
Authors: Pagnozzi Mauro , Coletta Gianluca , Leone Guido , Catani Vittorio , Esposito Libera , Fiorillo Francesco
Published: April 2020

The hydraulic and hydrogeological features of the Caposele aquifer have been investigated by using a numerical groundwater flow model. In particular, groundwater flow simulations were performed for a multilayered, unconfined aquifer in steady-state conditions for different thicknesses of the aquifer’s saturated zone. The Caposele groundwater model was carried out starting from a generic model drained by a unique spring outlet in accordance with the geo-hydrological features of the study area. The conceptual model was built considering hydrogeological features of spring catchment, and was then implemented with the MODFLOW numerical code. A combined 2D-3D approach was adopted, and the model was calibrated on borehole data available for the time period 2012–2019. Different thicknesses of the aquifer were set, and a reliable relationship was found between the hydraulic head, saturated zone and hydraulic conductivity of the aquifer. Using the MODPATH package, the mean travel time (Darcian) of groundwater was computed for five different scenarios, corresponding to the model’s depths; the analysis that was performed shows that the travel time is higher for a greater and lower for a smaller thickness of the aquifer’s saturated zone, respectively. The Caposele aquifer model was zoned in different sectors, named flow pipe areas, that play different roles in groundwater recharge-discharge processes. A vector analysis was also carried out in order to highlight the ascendant flow near the spring zone.
Prediction of High Capabilities in the Development of Kindergarten Children
Authors: Villuendas-Rey Yenny , Rey-Benguría Carmen F. , Camacho-Nieto Oscar , Yáñez-Márquez Cornelio
Published: April 2020

Analysis and prediction of children’s behavior in kindergarten is a current need of the Cuban educational system. Despite such an early age, the kindergarten institutions are devoted to facilitate the integral children development. However, the early detection of high capabilities in a child is not always accomplished accurately; due to teachers being mostly focused on the performance of the children that are lagging behind to achieve their age range’s stated goals. In addition, the amount of children with high capabilities is usually low, which makes the prediction an imbalanced data problem. Thus, such children tend to be misguided and overlaid, with a negative impact in their sociological development. The purpose of this research is to propose an efficient algorithm that enhances the prediction in the kindergarten children data. We obtain a useful set of instances and features, thus improving the Nearest Neighbor accuracy according to the Area under the Receiving Operating Characteristic curve measure. The obtained results are of great interest for Cuban educational system, regarding the rapidly and precise prediction of the presence or absence of high capabilities for integral personality development in kindergarten children.
Measurements of Vehicle Pollutants in a High-Traffic Urban Area by a Multiwavelength Dial Approach: Correlation Between Two Different Motor Vehicle Pollutants
Authors: Rossi Riccardo , Di Giovanni Daniele , Malizia Andrea , Gaudio Pasqualino
Published: April 2020

The development and improvement of monitoring techniques to measure the concentration of pollutants in the atmosphere are a starting point to guarantee high levels of human health and environmental safety. The combination of lidar and dial techniques, by measuring backscattering signals and reconstructing the map of their concentrations, can be used to provide detailed information about the presence of aerosols, particulate and pollutions. Moreover, by using a multiwavelength approach, it is possible to increase the measurement accuracy and reliability. In this work, the dial approach is used to monitor the pollution in a very congested urban area with high traffic. In order to provide a validation of the results, correlation analyses between the measured pollutants was performed. A new lidar analysis method, based on the least-square minimization technique, was introduced and demonstrated to work properly. The dial capability to detect polluted areas was shown—and by correlation analysis—also the possibility to identify the source of pollutions can be performed.
Cross Assessment of Twenty-One Different Methods for Missing Precipitation Data Estimation
Authors: Armanuos Asaad M. , Al-Ansari Nadhir , Yaseen Zaher Mundher
Published: April 2020

The results of metrological, hydrological, and environmental data analyses are mainly dependent on the reliable estimation of missing data. In this study, 21 classical methods were evaluated to determine the best method for infilling the missing precipitation data in Ethiopia. The monthly data collected from 15 different stations over 34 years from 1980 to 2013 were considered. Homogeneity and trend tests were performed to check the data. The results of the different methods were compared using the mean absolute error (MAE), root-mean-square error (RMSE), coefficient of efficiency (CE), similarity index (S-index), skill score (SS), and Pearson correlation coefficient (rPearson). The results of this paper confirmed that the normal ratio (NR), multiple linear regression (MLR), inverse distance weighting (IDW), correlation coefficient weighting (CCW), and arithmetic average (AA) methods are the most reliable methods of those studied. The NR method provides the most accurate estimations with rPearson of 0.945, mean absolute error of 22.90 mm, RMSE of 33.695 mm, similarity index of 0.999, CE index of 0.998, and skill score of 0.998. When comparing the observed results and the estimated results from the NR, MLR, IDW, CCW, and AA methods, the MAE and RMSE were found to be low, and high values of CE, S-index, SS, and rPearson were achieved. On the other hand, using the closet station (CS), UK traditional, linear regression (LR), expectation maximization (EM), and multiple imputations (MI) methods gave the lowest accuracy, with MAE and RMSE values varying from 30.424 to 47.641 mm and from 49.564 to 58.765 mm, respectively. The results of this study suggest that the recommended methods are applicable for different types of climatic data in Ethiopia and arid regions in other countries around the world.
Effect of Ball Milling on the Electrochemical Performance of Activated Carbon with a Very High Specific Surface Area
Authors: Eguchi Takuya , Kanamoto Yugo , Tomioka Masahiro , Tashima Daisuke , Kumagai Seiji
Published: April 2020

Activated carbon (AC) with a very high specific surface area of >3000 m2 g−1 and a number of course particles (average size: 75 µm) was pulverized by means of planetary ball milling under different conditions to find its greatest performances as the active material of an electric double-layer capacitor (EDLC) using a nonaqueous electrolyte. The variations in textural properties and particle morphology of the AC during the ball milling were investigated. The electrochemical performance (specific capacitance, rate and cyclic stabilities, and Ragone plot, both from gravimetric and volumetric viewpoints) was also evaluated for the ACs milled with different particle size distributions. A trade-off relation between the pulverization and the porosity maintenance of the AC was observed within the limited milling time. However, prolonged milling led to a degeneration of pores within the AC and a saturation of pulverization degree. The appropriate milling time provided the AC a high volumetric specific capacitance, as well as the greatest maintenance of both the gravimetric and volumetric specific capacitance. A high volumetric energy density of 6.6 Wh L−1 was attained at the high-power density of 1 kW L−1, which was a 35% increment compared with the nonmilled AC. The electrode densification (decreased interparticle gap) and the enhanced ion-transportation within the AC pores, which were attributed to the pulverization, were responsible for those excellent performances. It was also shown that excessive milling could degrade the EDLC performances because of the lowered micro- and meso-porosity and the excessive electrode densification to restrict the ion-transportation within the pores.
Tramesan Elicits Durum Wheat Defense against the Septoria Disease Complex
Authors: Scala Valeria , Pietricola Chiara , Farina Valentina , Beccaccioli Marzia , Zjalic Slaven , Quaranta Fabrizio , Fornara Mauro , Zaccaria Marco , Momeni Babak , Reverberi Massimo , Iori Angela
Published: April 2020

The Septoria Leaf Blotch Complex (SLBC), caused by the two ascomycetes Zymoseptoria tritici and Parastagonospora nodorum, can reduce wheat global yearly yield by up to 50%. In the last decade, SLBC incidence has increased in Italy; notably, durum wheat has proven to be more susceptible than common wheat. Field fungicide treatment can efficiently control these pathogens, but it leads to the emergence of resistant strains and adversely affects human and animal health and the environment. Our previous studies indicated that active compounds produced by Trametes versicolor can restrict the growth of mycotoxigenic fungi and the biosynthesis of their secondary metabolites (e.g., mycotoxins). Specifically, we identified Tramesan: a 23 kDa α-heteropolysaccharide secreted by T. versicolor that acts as a pro-antioxidant molecule in animal cells, fungi, and plants. Foliar-spray of Tramesan (3.3 μM) on SLBC-susceptible durum wheat cultivars, before inoculation of causal agents of Stagonospora Nodorum Blotch (SNB) and Septoria Tritici Blotch (STB), significantly decreased disease incidence both in controlled conditions (SNB: −99%, STB: −75%) and field assays (SNB: −25%, STB: −30%). We conducted these tests were conducted under controlled conditions as well as in field. We showed that Tramesan increased the levels of jasmonic acid (JA), a plant defense-related hormone. Tramesan also increased the early expression (24 hours after inoculation—hai) of plant defense genes such as PR4 for SNB infected plants, and RBOH, PR1, and PR9 for STB infected plants. These results suggest that Tramesan protects wheat by eliciting plant defenses, since it has no direct fungicidal activity. In field experiments, the yield of durum wheat plants treated with Tramesan was similar to that of healthy untreated plots. These results encourage the use of Tramesan to protect durum wheat against SLBC.