bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ANALISIS PENINGKATAN KUALITAS PROSES PEMBANGUNAN GEDUNG 7 DENGAN PENDEKATAN QUALITY RISK MANAGEMENT (QRM) DAN FAILURE MODE EFFECTS AND CRITICALITY ANALYSIS (FMECA)
Authors: Marodiyah Inggit , Sudarso Indung
Published: November 2020

Manajemen kualitas digunakan untuk mengevaluasi kualitas bangunan, sedangkan manajemen risiko digunakan untuk mengetahui risiko yang berpengaruh terhadap kualitas bangunan. Seperti sumber daya manusia yang tidak memakai alat pelindung diri (APD) saat melakukan pekerjaan dikarenakan dengan alasan pekerjaan semakin lama serta ribet dikerjakan. Sehingga dengan adanya beberapa proses yang belum terstandar, maka dapat berisiko mempengaruhi kualitas pembangunan yang tidak sesuai harapan. Tujuan dilakukan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui tingkat risiko yang berpengaruh terhadap kualitas pembangunan dan menentukan mitigasi untuk peningkatan kualitas pembangunan. Metode yang di gunakan adalah Quality Risk Management (QRM) yang berfungsi mengevaluasi indikator yang mempengaruhi peningkatan kualitas dan Failure Modes Effects and Criticality Analysis (FMECA) untuk mengevaluasi dampak potensial dari setiap kegagalan dengan memberi skala prioritas demi mengetahui tingkat risiko. Hasil yang diperoleh dari pendekatan QRM dan FMECA yaitu pekerjaan rangka atap dengan RPN sebesar 42 dan plesteran dinding luar dengan RPN sebesar 28 yang tergolong risiko tinggi (Critical High ). Sehingga mitigasi risiko yang diberikan yaitu pemakaian APD seperti safety belt safety shoes, helmet serta konsentrasi agar dapat membantu mencegah atau mengatasi apabila risiko yang tidak di inginkan dapat mempengaruhi kualitas bangunan.
DESAIN KONSEPTUAL PETI KEMAS MULTIFUNGSI SEBAGAI ALAT ANGKUT TERNAK DAN NON-TERNAK PADA PROGRAM TOL LAUT
Authors: Lazuardi Siti Dwi , Hadi Firmanto , Mustakim Achmad , Yunianto Irwan Tri , Wuryaningrum Pratiwi , Nisa Wahyu Nur Hidayatun
Published: November 2020

Program Tol Laut yang sudah memiliki 18 trayek kapal barang dan 6 trayek kapal ternak memiliki tingkat okupansi kapal yang masih rendah, utamanya ketika pelayaran kembali dari wilayah Indonesia Timur. Volume muatan berangkat dari tol laut bisa mencapai 74,6% dari target dalam satu tahun, tetapi muatan baliknya hanya sekitar 6,7%. Hal sebaliknya terjadi pada kapal ternak yang berasal dari wilayah Indonesia Timur yang didesain khusus mengangkut hewan ternak, membuat angkutan balik dari barat ke arah timur menjadi tanpa muatan. Guna memberikan solusi angkutan balik dari muatan ternak pada program tol laut, maka diperlukan inovasi alat angkut multifungsi. Oleh karena itu, penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengurangi disparitas muatan pada angkutan ternak dalam program tol laut dan untuk meningkatkan okupansi kapal tol laut dengan mempertimbangkan bentuk dan fungsi peti kemas serta pola operasional dari penggunaan peti kemas multifungsi ini. Metode yang digunakan adalah analisis biaya manfaat dengan rasio manfaat biaya sebagai tolok ukur kelayakan dari penggunaan peti kemas multifungsi. Hasil yang diperoleh adalah biaya produksi untuk setiap peti kemas multifungsi adalah sebesar Rp Rp. 19,9 juta/TEU dengan biaya perawatan sebesar Rp 350.000 /tahun dengan nilai benefit cost ratio sebesar 2,34.
The secure-enough base: a response to "the need for something more than a secure base: is a secure base always enough?"
Authors: Zimmerman Debbie
Published: November 2020

In this response to Michaela Chamberlain's article, I engage with some of the key aspects of her thinking in her exploration of the concept of the secure base and how the theory of its "provision" is tested by her lived experience of working with patients whose attachment-related trauma has compromised their capacity to experience her as a secure base. In particular, I explore the idea of the secure base as a two-person relational construct. I use an attachment lens to consider the complexities and challenges in facilitating attachment security when working with disorganised attachment. I explore the question of the need for an earlier "holding" phase as a precursor to the capacity to relate to a secure base and consider the expansion of the concept of the term secure base to incorporate this earlier "holding" dimension. I also question the possibility and desirability of "complete holding" in working towards attachment security, engaging with Winnicott's theories to explore the ideas of the transitional space of illusion and disillusion, of "good-enough", and of internalisation in the therapeutic process of building attachment security. Finally, I consider the parallel process of the therapist's development of their internal secure base.
State and Institutions: Education as a Product and Generator of Economic Change
Authors: Yakovleva Natalya G.
Published: November 2020

The author analyzes the discussion on the problems of the genesis and the role of institutions in economic development and shows that, in particular, in the discussion of supporters of “paninstitutionalism”, “ideational approach” and “critical Marxism” its participants do not take into account the dialectical nature of the connection between the development of economic relations, institutions and ideas. The interaction between them includes not only direct, but also reverse, mutual influences. The latter, in fact, determine that ideas have a certain opposite effect on the formation of institutions, but only when they penetrate the consciousness of economic actors capable of carrying out institutional changes. Education as an integral part of culture plays an important role in this process. This role of education becomes even more significant in the context of the creative revolution, when the main factor in the development of the economy is the creative potential of a person.
Comparison of Radial and Femoral Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Bhattarai Mahesh , Maskey Arun , Shah Ram Kishore , Bhandari Buna , Adhikari Chandramani , Tamrakar Rikesh , Pandey Rabindra , Nepal Himanshu
Published: November 2020

Background: The use of radial access for percutaneous coronary intervention is increasing in Nepal. However, there is limited study on the comparison of radial and femoral access in Nepal. This is the study comparing net adverse clinical events of radial with femoral access for intervention.

Methods: This prospective study was conducted at Shahid Gangalal National Heart Center from January 2014 to June 2015 among 849 participations who underwent percutaneous coronary interventions, and 418 radial interventions were compared with 418 femoral interventions. A comparison was done in terms of 30- day rate of net adverse clinical events defined as the composite of death, myocardial infarction, stroke, target lesion revascularization and major bleeding.

Results: Incidence of net adverse clinical events was significantly lower in radial compared to femoral approach 18(4.30%) vs. 51 (12.2%), p= <0.001). Mortality observed in the radial approach was significantly lower (p=<0.001) compared to femoral. Procedure success was not significantly different p=0.629.  The trans-radial approach had significantly higher crossover rate (p=0.001). Observed vascular access site complications (p=0.026) and hospital stay (p=<0.0001) were lower in the radial group. Radiation exposure measured by fluoroscopy exposure time was not significantly different between the two groups (p=0.290).

Conclusions: Radial access is associated with a lower rate of net adverse clinical events at 30 days compared to femoral access. Radial access is safer and equally effective compared to femoral access in the context of Nepal.

Keywords: Femoral; percutaneous coronary intervention; radial
Family repercussion of the deinstitutionalization of the ent with mental disorder
Authors: Batista Gabrielle Soares , Barbosa Liana Dantas da Costa e Silva , Silva Maria Enoia Dantas da Costa e
Published: November 2020

The deinstitutionalization of care for individuals with mental illness is one of the fundamental purposes of Psychiatric Reform in Brazil. Therefore, there is as a central phase, the resizing of the asylum with the argument of the gradual extinction of this circumstance, through the reduction of the number of beds and exchange for therapeutic services that are made available to the community. To identify the repercussions of the deinstitutionalization process for the family member of patients with mental disorders. Scientific articles were searched in the SCIELO, LILACS, BVS-BIREME databases, referring to the theme, with no distinct period. The inclusion criteria for the selection of the sample were: articles published in Portuguese, English, Spanish and European Portuguese that portrayed the theme under study, published and indexed in the referred databases. It can be seen that the greater predominance was given to the qualitative study with 12 articles (80%) due to being researches that mostly interpret qualitative data. It is understood, therefore, that living with the chronic condition becomes, in addition to the difficulties for the family member, a condition that alters the process of being healthy for individuals and groups.
Efeitos da aplicação da terapia combinada pulsada associada à corrente excitomotora de média frequência sob a redução de gordura localizada abdominal em mulheres
Authors: Almeida Nathália Soares de , Nogueira Amanda Meris , Bonato Gabryella Sena Lopes , Araujo Bruna Corral Garcia de , Toledo Ana Clara Campagnolo Gonçalves
Published: November 2020

O presente estudo investigou os efeitos da aplicação da terapia combinada de modo pulsado associado ou não à corrente excitomotora de média frequência em mulheres, para o tratamento de redução de gordura localizada, efeitos na pressão arterial e no sistema nervoso autônomo. Trata-se de um estudo ensaio clínico randomizado, formado por mulheres que realizaram o tratamento de terapia combinada ao longo de 12 sessões. As variáveis analisadas foram antropometria, variabilidade da frequência cardíaca e pressão arterial. Apresentando diminuição da gordura localizada do grupo com associação da corrente excitomotora, a VFC não demonstrou resultados significativos, sugerindo estudos futuros com população cardiopata.
Uma revisão da literatura sobre os estilos de aprendizagem em cursos técnicos, superiores e de especialização e sobre os impactos do ensino remoto emergencial
Authors: Assunção Marcelo Teodoro , Viana Luiz Augusto Ferreira de Campos
Published: November 2020

A maneira pela qual cada pessoa aprende ao longo de sua vida é influenciada por características do próprio indivíduo, fatores externos relacionados ao meio em que vive e suas experiências. Cada indivíduo apresenta suas próprias preferências sobre como receber e processar informações, consolidando seu aprendizado sobre determinado assunto. Essas diferentes formas preferenciais constituem os Estilos de Aprendizagem. O conhecimento dos estilos de seus alunos possibilita ao professor adotar estratégias que promovam melhorias no desempenho da turma, direcionando o conteúdo conforme as preferências de seus alunos. A importância das práticas pedagógicas dos docentes ganhou ainda mais importância no ano de 2020 devido à pandemia da COVID-19. Como as atividades presenciais de ensino foram suspensas, as instituições adotaram o Ensino Remoto Emergencial. Foi necessária uma adaptação rápida dos profissionais da educação ao uso das Tecnologias Digitais da Informação e Comunicação, caracterizando assim um grande desafio aos docentes nas práticas pedagógicas. Dentro deste contexto, este trabalho tem o objetivo de fazer uma revisão da literatura sobre os Estilos de Aprendizagem de alunos de cursos técnicos, superiores e de especialização, nas modalidades presenciais e à distância, de acordo com o Índice de Estilos de Aprendizagem, de Felder e Silverman, e também apresentar investigações e relatos sobre os impactos do Ensino Remoto Emergencial na vida dos docentes.
Educação e tecnologia - uma análise de portais educacionais à educação básica
Authors: Silva Aline Lucielle , França Jonathan Faraco , Silva Madalena Pereira da
Published: November 2020

Os avanços tecnológicos vêm transformando as relações pessoais e também sociais. Embora haja muitos esforços para promover as tecnologias no ensino, ainda existem dificuldades de incorporá-las na prática pedagógica. Este estudo tem como objetivo identificar algumas plataformas voltadas à educação básica no Brasil. As plataformas foram analisadas observando a pertinência dos conteúdos para a educação básica; o dinamismo dos ambientes quanto aos objetos virtuais de aprendizagem e a possibilidade de criação pelos estudantes e ou professores nos respectivos espaços digitais. São apresentados temas como educação e sociedade do século XXI, tecnologias digitais da informação e comunicação, seguindo pelas discussões e as considerações finais. Como resultados, este estudo mostra evidências da necessidade de novas plataformas que possam não apenas disponibilizar conteúdos, mas que permitem a autoria e o protagonismo dos estudantes da educação básica quanto à criação de conteúdo e objetos virtuais de aprendizagem.
Nutritional and rheological evaluation of blends based on ora-pro-nóbis (Pereskia aculeata Miller) and wheat flour
Authors: Trentin Micheli Mayara , Bampi Marlene , Dinon Andréia Zilio
Published: November 2020

This work aimed to evaluate the nutritional and rheological quality of ora-pro-nobis flour (OPNF) and its influence on the replacement of wheat flour (WF), through the analysis of physicochemical parameters, determination of phenolic compounds, antioxidant activity and rheological analyzes of wheat flour and mixtures with 10 to 30% OPNF. Flour blends with 10%, 20% and 30% of OPNF in substitution of WF in flour base were evaluated. The OPNF showed higher values of lipids (2.87%), proteins (18.29%), fibers (44.13%), ash (11.19%), minerals (Ca, Mg, K, Na, Fe and Zn), beta-carotene (71.37 µg 100 g-1), lycopene (25.02 µg 100 g-1), total chlorophyll (24.40 µg 100 g-1), ABTS radical-scavenging capacity (15.02 μmol Trolox eq. g-1) and DPPH (IC 50 = 33.30 μmol mL-1 extract) in relation to WF. The flour blends with 10%, 20% and 30% of OPNF showed a higher nutritional value and antioxidant activity proportional to the increase on OPNF concentration. The increasing on the concentration of OPNF in flour blends reduced the values of the gluten strength (P), tenacity (W), extensibility (L), water absorption and falling number. Moreover, it increased the values of dough development time, dough stability and water absorption. The results of rheological analyzes indicate that flour blends of OPNF (10%, 20% and 30%) with WF have characteristics suitable for use in biscuits, baked cakes and breads. The data from this study demonstrate the nutritional value and technological potential of OPNF for the development of food products.
Dissimilaridade fenotípica em genótipos de girassol
Authors: Correa Victor Rafael Siqueira , Oliveira Taniele Carvalho de , Oliveira Altacis Junior de , Barelli Marco Antonio Aparecido , Silva Valvenarg Pereira da , Galbiati Carla , Poletine Juliana Parisotto
Published: November 2020

O girassol é uma oleaginosa e seu cultivo está associado à produção de óleo comestível, biodiesel, ornamentação, ração para animais. A quantificação da variabilidade genética de girassol pode ser avaliada com base no seu rendimento, que é em função de diversas características morfológicas. Com isso, objetivou-se estimar a dissimilaridade fenotípica de genótipos de girassol através das características morfológicas. O trabalho foi conduzido na área experimental da Empresa Mato-Grossense de Pesquisa, Assistência e Extensão Rural, em Cáceres-MT, com delineamento em blocos ao acaso com quatro repetições. Avaliando as seguintes características: início do florescimento, maturação fisiológica, altura de plantas, curvatura do caule, tamanho do capítulo e peso de mil aquênios. A dissimilaridade fenotípica entre os noves genótipos foi avaliada com base na Distância Generalizada de Mahalanobis, e empregando ás análises de agrupamento de UPGMA e Tocher, Variáveis Canônicas e Importância Relativa dos Caracteres com uso do programa Genes. Constatou-se diferenças significativas pelo teste F a 1 % de probabilidade, para todas as características avaliadas demostrando a existência de dissimilaridade fenotípica para os genótipos com base nas seis características morfológicas. O genótipo AGUARÁ 06 apresentou a maior distância genética sendo o mais dissimilar, podendo ser usado para possíveis cruzamentos. As características início de florescimento e maturação fisiológica foram as mais contribuintes para a obtenção da dissimilaridade fenotípica.
Localized excitons and trions in semiconductor nanosystems
Authors: Semina M A , Suris R A
Published: November 2020

The optical properties of semiconductors and nanoheterostructures based on them are determined near the fundamental absorption edge by electron–hole complexes such as excitons and charged three-particle complexes, aka trions. We present the results of theoretical studies of the structure and binding energies of localized excitons and trions in nanosystems within the variational approach. This approach is applicable to a wide range of semiconducting systems, from quantum wells, wires, and dots based on classical group III–V and II–VI semiconductors to van der Waals heterostructures made of monolayers of transition-metal dichalcogenides. We also discuss many-particle effects in structures containing resident charge carriers. Our treatment of theoretical approaches is accompanied by a discussion of extensive experimental results available in the literature.
Hepatocellular Carcinoma Risk According to Regimens for Eradication of Hepatitis C Virus; Interferon or Direct Acting Antivirals
Authors: Lee Hye Won , Han Dai Hoon , Shin Hye Jung , Lee Jae Seung , Kim Seung Up , Park Jun Yong , Kim Do Young , Ahn Sang Hoon , Kim Beom Kyung
Published: November 2020

By pegylated interferon (PegIFN)-free direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) against hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, a sustained virological response (SVR) rate >95% can be attained with a satisfactory tolerability and shorter treatment duration. However, it remains controversial whether there is any difference in prognosis depending on regimens—PegIFN or DAAs. We compared the probabilities of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development between patients achieving an SVR by PegIFN/ribavirin (PegIFN group, n = 603) and DAAs (DAAs group, n = 479). The DAAs group was significantly older and had a higher proportion of cirrhosis than the PegIFN group. Before adjustment, the DAAs group had a higher HCC incidence than the PegIFN group (p < 0.001). However, by multivariate analyses, the DAAs (vs. PegIFN) group was not associated with HCC risk (adjusted hazard ratio 0.968, 95% confidence interval 0.380–2.468; p = 0.946). Old age, male, higher body mass index, cirrhosis, and lower platelet count were associated with increased HCC risk (all p < 0.05). After propensity score matching (PSM), a similar HCC risk between the two groups was observed (p = 0.372). We also compared HCC incidences according to sofosbuvir (SOF)-based and SOF-free DAAs, showing a similar risk in both groups before adjustment (p = 0.478) and after PSM (p = 0.855). In conclusion, post-SVR HCC risks were comparable according to treatment regimens; PegIFN- vs. DAA-based regimens and SOF-based vs. SOF-free DAA regimens. Further studies with a longer follow-up period are required.
Quantitative Imaging Parameters of Contrast-Enhanced Micro-Computed Tomography Correlate with Angiogenesis and Necrosis in a Subcutaneous C6 Glioma Model
Authors: Ayala-Domínguez Lízbeth , Pérez-Cárdenas Enrique , Avilés-Salas Alejandro , Medina Luis Alberto , Lizano Marcela , Brandan María-Ester
Published: November 2020

The aim of this work was to systematically obtain quantitative imaging parameters with static and dynamic contrast-enhanced (CE) X-ray imaging techniques and to evaluate their correlation with histological biomarkers of angiogenesis in a subcutaneous C6 glioma model. Enhancement (E), iodine concentration (CI), and relative blood volume (rBV) were quantified from single- and dual-energy (SE and DE, respectively) micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) images, while rBV and volume transfer constant (Ktrans) were quantified from dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) planar images. CI and rBV allowed a better discernment of tumor regions from muscle than E in SE and DE images, while no significant differences were found for rBV and Ktrans in DCE images. An agreement was found in rBV for muscle quantified with the different imaging protocols, and in CI and E quantified with SE and DE protocols. Significant strong correlations (Pearson r > 0.7, p < 0.05) were found between a set of imaging parameters in SE images and histological biomarkers: E and CI in tumor periphery were associated with microvessel density (MVD) and necrosis, E and CI in the complete tumor with MVD, and rBV in the tumor periphery with MVD. In conclusion, quantitative imaging parameters obtained in SE micro-CT images could be used to characterize angiogenesis and necrosis in the subcutaneous C6 glioma model.
Assessing Effectiveness of Colonic and Gynecological Risk Reducing Surgery in Lynch Syndrome Individuals
Authors: Dueñas Nuria , Navarro Matilde , Teulé Àlex , Solanes Ares , Salinas Mònica , Iglesias Sílvia , Munté Elisabet , Ponce Jordi , Guardiola Jordi , Kreisler Esther , Carballas Elvira , Cuadrado Marta , Matias-Guiu Xavier , de la Ossa Napoleón , Lop Joan , Lázaro Conxi , Capellá Gabriel , Pineda Marta , Brunet Joan
Published: November 2020

Background: Colorectal (CRC) and endometrial cancer (EC) are the most common types of cancer in Lynch syndrome (LS). Risk reducing surgeries (RRS) might impact cancer incidence and mortality. Our objectives were to evaluate cumulative incidences of CRC, gynecological cancer and all-cause mortality after RRS in LS individuals. Methods: Retrospective analysis of 976 LS carriers from a single-institution registry. Primary endpoints were cumulative incidence at 75 years of cancer (metachronous CRC in 425 individuals; EC and ovarian cancer (OC) in 531 individuals) and all-cause mortality cumulative incidence, comparing extended (ES) vs. segmental surgery (SS) in the CRC cohort and risk reducing gynecological surgery (RRGS) vs. surveillance in the gynecological cohort. Results: Cumulative incidence at 75 years of metachronous CRC was 12.5% vs. 44.7% (p = 0.04) and all-cause mortality cumulative incidence was 38.6% vs. 55.3% (p = 0.31), for ES and SS, respectively. Cumulative, incidence at 75 years was 11.2% vs. 46.3% for EC (p = 0.001) and 0% vs. 12.7% for OC (p N/A) and all-cause mortality cumulative incidence was 0% vs. 52.7% (p N/A), for RRGS vs. surveillance, respectively. Conclusions: RRS in LS reduces the incidence of metachronous CRC and gynecological neoplasms, also indicating a reduction in all-cause mortality cumulative incidence in females undergoing RRGS.
Seascape Configuration Leads to Spatially Uneven Delivery of Parrotfish Herbivory across a Western Indian Ocean Seascape
Authors: Eggertsen Linda , Goodell Whitney , Cordeiro César A. M. M. , Mendes Thiago C. , Longo Guilherme O. , Ferreira Carlos E. L. , Berkström Charlotte
Published: November 2020

Spatial configuration of habitat types in multihabitat seascapes influence ecological function through links of biotic and abiotic processes. These connections, for example export of organic matter or fishes as mobile links, define ecosystem functionality across broader spatial scales. Herbivory is an important ecological process linked to ecosystem resilience, but it is not clear how herbivory relates to seascape configuration. We studied how herbivory and bioerosion by 3 species of parrotfish were distributed in a multi-habitat tropical seascape in the Western Indian Ocean (WIO). We surveyed the abundance of three species with different life histories—Leptoscarus vaigiensis (seagrass species), Scarus ghobban (juvenile-seagrass/adults-reefs) and Scarus rubroviolaceus (reef species) —in seagrass meadows and on reefs and recorded their selectivity of feeding substrate in the two habitats. Herbivory rates for L. vaigiensis and S. ghobban and bioerosion for S. rubroviolaceus were then modelled using bite rates for different size classes and abundance and biomass data along seascape gradients (distance to alternative habitat types such as land, mangrove and seagrass). Bioerosion by S. rubroviolaceus was greatest on reefs far from seagrass meadows, while herbivory rates by S. ghobban on reefs displayed the opposite pattern. Herbivory in seagrass meadows was greatest in meadows close to shore, where L. vaigiensis targeted seagrass leaves and S. ghobban the epiphytes growing on them. Our study shows that ecological functions performed by fish are not equally distributed in the seascape and are influenced by fish life history and the spatial configuration of habitats in the seascape. This has implications for the resilience of the system, in terms of spatial heterogeneity of herbivory and bioerosion and should be considered in marine spatial planning and fisheries management.
GoWInD: Wind Energy Spatiotemporal Assessment and Characterization of End-of-Life Activities
Authors: Haces-Fernandez Francisco
Published: November 2020

Concerns on the lack sustainable end-of-life options for wind turbines have significantly increased in recent years. To ensure wind energy continuous growth, this research develops a novel spatiotemporal methodology that sustainably handles end-of-life activities for wind equipment. This research introduces the Global Wind Inventory for Future Decommissioning (GoWInD), which assesses and characterizes wind turbines according to individual spatiotemporal decommissioning and sustainability attributes. Applying data from GoWInD, the research developments networks of end-of-life (EoL) centers for wind turbines. The placement and operational levels of EoL centers optimize sustainable decommissioning according to changing spatiotemporal features of wind turbines. The methodology was evaluated for the United States, developing the United States Global Wind Inventory for Future Decommissioning (US—GoWInD), implementing the network of United States end-of-life (US—EoL) centers. Significant imbalances on the temporal and spatial distribution of US wind decommissioning inventory were revealed by the system. Diverse options to effectively handle these imbalances were highlighted by the methodology, including US—EoL center optimization according to placement, operational levels and potential complementarities. Particular attention was paid to components with challenging disposal options. The system can be implemented for diverse geographical locations and alternative spatial and temporal resolutions.
Limiting Efficiencies of Intermediate Band Solar Cells in Tandem Configuration
Authors: Lee Jongwon
Published: November 2020

It is necessary to devise innovative techniques to design new high-performance tandem solar cells to meet increasing energy needs. In this study, the theoretical efficiency of intermediate band solar cells (IBSCs) was increased by integrating them with tandem solar cells to produce intermediate band tandem solar cells (IBTSCs). The spectral splitting analysis indicated that the efficient absorption of sub-photon energies was necessary to ensure optimal performance of the IBSCs at each junction of the IBTSC. For this calculation, we assumed all absorption of sub-photon energies are unity. In addition, we applied the variation of absorptivity to the detailed balance limit of a double-junction (DJ) IBTSC. Furthermore, we included the impact of series and shunt resistances of a typical DJ IBTSC to investigate the variations in electrical parameters (short circuit current, open circuit voltage). The performance efficiency also depended on the illumination concentration due to the charge carrier transitions at each junction. We analyzed this aspect to determine the overall performance of the IBTSCs. We replaced the IBSC in the bottom junction with a single-junction solar cell to explore the potential of diverse tandem configurations. DJ IBTSCs achieved a limiting efficiency comparable to that of six-junction solar cells, despite the lower number of junctions. It was challenging for these cells to exhibit optimal performance because of the inefficient spectrum management in the bottom junction. It was concluded that full illumination concentration was required to achieve optimal performance in both junctions of the IBTSC.
Using PCM in Two Proposed Residential Buildings in Christchurch, New Zealand
Authors: Schmerse Erik , Ikutegbe Charles A. , Auckaili Amar , Farid Mohammed M.
Published: November 2020

A characteristic feature of lightweight constructions is their low thermal mass which causes high internal temperature fluctuations that require high heating and cooling demand throughout the year. Phase change materials (PCMs) are effective in providing thermal inertia to low-thermal-mass buildings. This paper aims to analyse the thermal behaviour of two proposed lightweight buildings designed for homeless people and to investigate the potential benefit achievable through the use of different types of PCM in the temperate climatic conditions of Christchurch, New Zealand. For this purpose, over 300 numerical simulations were conducted using DesignBuilder® simulation software. The bulk of the simulations were carried out under the assumption that the whole opaque building envelope is equipped with PCM. The results showed significant energy saving and comfort enhancement through the application of PCMs. The integration of PCM in single-structure components led to substantial energy savings between 19% and 27% annually. However, occupant behaviour in terms of ventilation habits, occupancy of zones, etc. remains one of the biggest challenges in any simulation work due to insufficient data.
Three-Dimensional Streamline Tracing Method over Tetrahedral Domains
Authors: Luo Yi , Zhang Liehui , Feng Yin , Zhao Yulong
Published: November 2020

Getting a clear understanding of the fluid velocity field in underground porous media is critical to various engineering applications, such as oil/gas reservoirs, CO2 sequestration, groundwater, etc. As an effective visualization tool and efficient transport behaviors solution algorithm, the streamline-based method was improved significantly by numerous studies conducted in the last couple of decades. However, the implementation of streamline simulation is still challenging while working with Finite Element Method (FEM) over 3D tetrahedral domains, where the mass conservation is not guaranteed. Considering the increased computational cost to enforce mass conservation in FEM and additional complexity, a new three-dimensional streamline tracing algorithm is presented that only relies on the velocity vector of a flow field on each vertex of a tetrahedron in a 3D unstructured mesh system. Owning to the shape functions and transformation equations between the master element and actual element, the exit coordinate leaving a tetrahedral element can be determined effectively. As a result, Time of Flight (TOF), the coordinate variable along each streamline, can be calculated accurately and efficiently because that the analytical solution depicting the trajectory in Master Element is deduced. The presented streamline-based method is tested under FEniCS, a programming framework for FEM, which eases the implementation and further development of the presented method.
Effects of Tenascin C on the Integrity of Extracellular Matrix and Skin Aging
Authors: Choi Young Eun , Song Min Ji , Hara Mari , Imanaka-Yoshida Kyoko , Lee Dong Hun , Chung Jin Ho , Lee Seung-Taek
Published: November 2020

Tenascin C (TNC) is an element of the extracellular matrix (ECM) of various tissues, including the skin, and is involved in modulating ECM integrity and cell physiology. Although skin aging is apparently associated with changes in the ECM, little is known about the role of TNC in skin aging. In this study, we found that the Tnc mRNA level was significantly reduced in the skin tissues of aged mice compared with young mice, consistent with reduced TNC protein expression in aged human skin. TNC-large (TNC-L; 330-kDa) and -small (TNC-S; 240-kDa) polypeptides were observed in conditional media from primary dermal fibroblasts. Both recombinant TNC polypeptides, corresponding to TNC-L and TNC-S, increased the expression of type I collagen and reduced the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-1 in fibroblasts. Treatment of fibroblasts with a recombinant TNC polypeptide, corresponding to TNC-L, induced phosphorylation of SMAD2 and SMAD3. TNC increased the level of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) mRNA and upregulated the expression of type I collagen by activating the TGF-β signaling pathway. In addition, TNC also promoted the expression of type I collagen in fibroblasts embedded in a three-dimensional collagen matrix. Our findings suggest that TNC contributes to the integrity of ECM in young skin and to prevention of skin aging.
Regulation of ROS Metabolism in Plants under Environmental Stress: A Review of Recent Experimental Evidence
Authors: Hasanuzzaman Mirza , Bhuyan M. H. M. Borhannuddin , Parvin Khursheda , Bhuiyan Tasnim Farha , Anee Taufika Islam , Nahar Kamrun , Hossen Md. Shahadat , Zulfiqar Faisal , Alam Md. Mahabub , Fujita Masayuki
Published: November 2020

Various environmental stresses singly or in combination generate excess amounts of reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to oxidative stress and impaired redox homeostasis. Generation of ROS is the obvious outcome of abiotic stresses and is gaining importance not only for their ubiquitous generation and subsequent damaging effects in plants but also for their diversified roles in signaling cascade, affecting other biomolecules, hormones concerning growth, development, or regulation of stress tolerance. Therefore, a good balance between ROS generation and the antioxidant defense system protects photosynthetic machinery, maintains membrane integrity, and prevents damage to nucleic acids and proteins. Notably, the antioxidant defense system not only scavenges ROS but also regulates the ROS titer for signaling. A glut of studies have been executed over the last few decades to discover the pattern of ROS generation and ROS scavenging. Reports suggested a sharp threshold level of ROS for being beneficial or toxic, depending on the plant species, their growth stages, types of abiotic stresses, stress intensity, and duration. Approaches towards enhancing the antioxidant defense in plants is one of the vital areas of research for plant biologists. Therefore, in this review, we accumulated and discussed the physicochemical basis of ROS production, cellular compartment-specific ROS generation pathways, and their possible distressing effects. Moreover, the function of the antioxidant defense system for detoxification and homeostasis of ROS for maximizing defense is also discussed in light of the latest research endeavors and experimental evidence.
ANK2 Hypermethylation in Canine Mammary Tumors and Human Breast Cancer
Authors: Schabort Johannes J. , Nam A-Reum , Lee Kang-Hoon , Kim Seok Won , Lee Jeong Eon , Cho Je-Yoel
Published: November 2020

Canine mammary tumors (CMT) constitute the most common tumor types found in female dogs. Understanding this cancer through extensive research is important not only for clinical veterinary applications, but also in the scope of comparative oncology. The use of DNA methylation as a biomarker has been noted for numerous cancers in the form of both tissue and liquid biopsies, yet the study of methylation in CMT has been limited. By analyzing our canine methyl-binding domain sequencing (MBD-seq) data, we identified intron regions of canine ANK2 and EPAS1 as differentially methylated regions (DMGs) in CMT. Subsequently, we established quantitative methylation specific PCR (qMSP) of ANK2 and EPAS1 to validate the target hypermethylation in CMT tissue, as well as cell free DNA (cfDNA) from CMT plasma. Both ANK2 and EPAS1 were hypermethylated in CMT and highlighted as potential tissue biomarkers in CMT. ANK2 additionally showed significant hypermethylation in the plasma cfDNA of CMT, indicating that it could be a potential liquid biopsy biomarker as well. A similar trend towards hypermethylation was indicated in HBC at a specific CpG of the ANK2 target on the orthologous human region, which validates the comparative approach using aberrant methylation in CMT.
Secondary Metabolites of the Rice Blast Fungus Pyricularia oryzae: Biosynthesis and Biological Function
Authors: Motoyama Takayuki
Published: November 2020

Plant pathogenic fungi produce a wide variety of secondary metabolites with unique and complex structures. However, most fungal secondary metabolism genes are poorly expressed under laboratory conditions. Moreover, the relationship between pathogenicity and secondary metabolites remains unclear. To activate silent gene clusters in fungi, successful approaches such as epigenetic control, promoter exchange, and heterologous expression have been reported. Pyricularia oryzae, a well-characterized plant pathogenic fungus, is the causal pathogen of rice blast disease. P. oryzae is also rich in secondary metabolism genes. However, biosynthetic genes for only four groups of secondary metabolites have been well characterized in this fungus. Biosynthetic genes for two of the four groups of secondary metabolites have been identified by activating secondary metabolism. This review focuses on the biosynthesis and roles of the four groups of secondary metabolites produced by P. oryzae. These secondary metabolites include melanin, a polyketide compound required for rice infection; pyriculols, phytotoxic polyketide compounds; nectriapyrones, antibacterial polyketide compounds produced mainly by symbiotic fungi including endophytes and plant pathogens; and tenuazonic acid, a well-known mycotoxin produced by various plant pathogenic fungi and biosynthesized by a unique NRPS-PKS enzyme.
Scopolin Prevents Adipocyte Differentiation in 3T3-L1 Preadipocytes and Weight Gain in an Ovariectomy-Induced Obese Mouse Model
Authors: Park Eunkuk , Lee Chang Gun , Kim Jeonghyun , Lim Eunguk , Yeo Subin , Jeong Seon-Yong
Published: November 2020

Obesity is prevalent in modern human societies. We examined the anti-obesity effects of scopolin on adipocyte differentiation in preadipocyte 3T3-L1 cells and weight loss in an ovariectomy (OVX)-induced obese mouse model. Scopolin inhibited adipocyte differentiation and lipid accumulation in the preadipocyte cells by suppressing the transcription of adipogenic-related factors, including adiponectin (Adipoq), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (Pparg), lipoprotein lipase (Lpl), perilipin1 (Plin1), fatty acid-binding protein 4 (Fabp4), glucose transporter type 4 (Slc2a4), and CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein alpha (Cebpa). In OVX-induced obese mice, administration of scopolin promoted the reduction of body weight, total fat percentage, liver steatosis, and adipose cell size. In addition, the scopolin-treated OVX mice showed decreased serum levels of leptin and insulin. Taken together, these findings suggest that the use of scopolin prevented adipocyte differentiation and weight gain in vitro and in vivo, indicating that scopolin may be a potential bioactive compound for the treatment and prevention of obesity in humans.
Facilitation of Bone Healing Processes Based on the Developmental Function of Meox2 in Tooth Loss Lesion
Authors: Kim Tae-Young , Park Jae-Kyung , Prasad Aryal Yam , Lee Eui-Seon , Neupane Sanjiv , Sung Shijin , Pokharel Elina , Yeon Chang-Yeol , Kim Ji-Youn , Jung Jae-Kwang , Yamamoto Hitoshi , An Chang-Hyeon , Lee Youngkyun , Sohn Wern-Joo , Jang Il-Ho , An Seo-Young , Kim Jae-Young
Published: November 2020

In the present study, we examined the bone healing capacity of Meox2, a homeobox gene that plays essential roles in the differentiation of a range of developing tissues, and identified its putative function in palatogenesis. We applied the knocking down of Meox2 in human periodontal ligament fibroblasts to examine the osteogenic potential of Meox2. Additionally, we applied in vivo periodontitis induced experiment to reveal the possible application of Meox2 knockdown for 1 and 2 weeks in bone healing processes. We examined the detailed histomorphological changes using Masson’s trichrome staining and micro-computed tomography evaluation. Moreover, we observed the localization patterns of various signaling molecules, including α-SMA, CK14, IL-1β, and MPO to examine the altered bone healing processes. Furthermore, we investigated the process of bone formation using immunohistochemistry of Osteocalcin and Runx2. On the basis of the results, we suggest that the knocking down of Meox2 via the activation of osteoblast and modulation of inflammation would be a plausible answer for bone regeneration as a gene therapy. Additionally, we propose that the purpose-dependent selection and application of developmental regulation genes are important for the functional regeneration of specific tissues and organs, where the pathological condition of tooth loss lesion would be.
Efficient Suppression of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Expansion in Rats through Systemic Administration of Statin-Loaded Nanomedicine
Authors: Fukuhara Natsumi , Honda Yuto , Ukita Nao , Matsui Makoto , Miura Yutaka , Hoshina Katsuyuki
Published: November 2020

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a life-threatening disease. However, no systemically injectable drug has been approved for AAA treatment due to low bioavailability. Polymeric micelles are nanomedicines that have the potential to improve therapeutic efficacy by selectively delivering drugs into disease sites, and research has mainly focused on cancer treatments. Here, we developed a statin-loaded polymeric micelle to treat AAAs in rat models. The micelle showed medicinal efficacy by preventing aortic aneurysm expansion in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, the micelle-injected group showed decreased macrophage infiltration and decreased matrix metalloproteinase-9 activity in cases of AAA.
Identification of Anthocyanins-Related Glutathione S-Transferase (GST) Genes in the Genome of Cultivated Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa)
Authors: Lin Yuanxiu , Zhang Lianxi , Zhang JiaHao , Zhang Yunting , Wang Yan , Chen Qing , Luo Ya , Zhang Yong , Li Mengyao , Wang Xiaorong , Tang Haoru
Published: November 2020

Anthocyanins are responsible for the red color of strawberry, they are a subclass of flavonoids synthesized in cytosol and transferred to vacuole to form the visible color. Previous studies in model and ornamental plants indicated members of the glutathione S-transferase (GST) gene family were involved in vacuolar accumulation of anthocyanins. In the present study, a total of 130 FaGST genes were identified in the genome of cultivated strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa), which were unevenly distributed across the 28 chromosomes from the four subgenomes. Evolutionary analysis revealed the expansion of FaGST family was under stable selection and mainly drove by WGD/segmental duplication event. Classification and phylogenetic analysis indicated that all the FaGST genes were clarified into seven subclasses, among which FaGST1, FaGST37, and FaGST97 belonging to Phi class were closely related to FvRAP, an anthocyanin-related GST of wildwood strawberry, and this clade was clustered with other known anthocyanin-related GSTs. RNAseq-based expression analysis at different developmental stages of strawberry revealed that the expression of FaGST1, FaGST37, FaGST39, FaGST73, and FaGST97 was gradually increased during the fruit ripening, consistent with the anthocyanins accumulation. These expression patterns of those five FaGST genes were also significantly correlated with those of other anthocyanin biosynthetic genes such as FaCHI, FaCHS, and FaANS, as well as anthocyanin regulatory gene FaMYB10. These results indicated FaGST1, FaGST37, FaGST39, FaGST73, and FaGST97 may function in vacuolar anthocyanin accumulation in cultivated strawberry.
Targeting Adenosine Receptors: A Potential Pharmacological Avenue for Acute and Chronic Pain
Authors: Vincenzi Fabrizio , Pasquini Silvia , Borea Pier Andrea , Varani Katia
Published: November 2020

Adenosine is a purine nucleoside, responsible for the regulation of multiple physiological and pathological cellular and tissue functions by activation of four G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR), namely A1, A2A, A2B, and A3 adenosine receptors (ARs). In recent years, extensive progress has been made to elucidate the role of adenosine in pain regulation. Most of the antinociceptive effects of adenosine are dependent upon A1AR activation located at peripheral, spinal, and supraspinal sites. The role of A2AAR and A2BAR is more controversial since their activation has both pro- and anti-nociceptive effects. A3AR agonists are emerging as promising candidates for neuropathic pain. Although their therapeutic potential has been demonstrated in diverse preclinical studies, no AR ligands have so far reached the market. To date, novel pharmacological approaches such as adenosine regulating agents and allosteric modulators have been proposed to improve efficacy and limit side effects enhancing the effect of endogenous adenosine. This review aims to provide an overview of the therapeutic potential of ligands interacting with ARs and the adenosinergic system for the treatment of acute and chronic pain.
PNPLA3 I148M Up-Regulates Hedgehog and Yap Signaling in Human Hepatic Stellate Cells
Authors: Bruschi Francesca Virginia , Tardelli Matteo , Einwallner Elisa , Claudel Thierry , Trauner Michael
Published: November 2020

Liver fibrosis represents the wound healing response to sustained hepatic injury with activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). The I148M variant of the PNPLA3 gene represents a risk factor for development of severe liver fibrosis. Activated HSCs carrying the I148M variant display exacerbated pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrogenic features. We aimed to examine whether the I148M variant may impair Hedgehog and Yap signaling, as key pathways implicated in the control of energy expenditure and maintenance of myofibroblastic traits. First, we show that TGF-β rapidly up-regulated the PNPLA3 transcript and protein and Yap/Hedgehog target gene expression. In addition, HSCs overexpressing PNPLA3 I148M boosted anaerobic glycolysis, as supported by higher lactate release and decreased phosphorylation of the energy sensor AMPK. These cells displayed higher Yap and Hedgehog signaling, due to accumulation of total Yap protein, Yap promoter activity and increased downstream targets expression, compared to WT cells. HSCs exposed to TGF-β and leptin rapidly increased total Yap, together with a reduction in its inhibited form, phosphorylated Yap. In line, Yap-specific inhibitor Verteporfin strongly abolished Yap-mediated genes expression, at baseline as well as after TGF-β and leptin treatments in HSCs with I148M PNPLA3. Finally, Yap transcriptional activity was strongly reduced by a combination of Verteporfin and Rosiglitazone, a PPARγ synthetic agonist. In conclusion, HSCs carrying the PNPLA3 variant show activated Yap/Hedgehog pathways, resulting in altered anaerobic glycolysis and enhanced synthesis of Hedgehog markers and sustained Yap signaling. TGF-β and leptin exacerbate Yap/Hedgehog-related fibrogenic genes expression, while Yap inhibitors and PPARγ agonists abrogate these effects in PNPLA3 I148M carrying HSCs.