bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bienestar subjetivo, percepción de esfuerzo, aprendizaje y diversión en el esquí náutico inclusivo
Authors: Suárez Iglesias David , Villa Vicente José Gerardo
Published: November 2017

Este estudio investigó la percepción de bienestar subjetivo (BS), aprendizaje, diversión y esfuerzo en un curso de esquí náutico inclusivo. Cinco adultos con discapacidades físicas con edades comprendidas entre 45 y 63 años (M = 52.6, DE = 7.7), procedentes de un Centro de Referencia Estatal de Discapacidad y Dependencia, participaron en un curso de seis sesiones de esquí náutico inclusivo (ENI) en el medio natural de un embalse. La metodología del curso siguió un enfoque basado en capacidades, en torno a un espectro de inclusión aplicado al esquí náutico (Suárez-Iglesias y Suárez-García, 2016). El BS de los participantes se midió antes y después del curso con el cuestionario Well-being Index (WHO-5) (WHO, 1998). En cada sesión, la percepción de aprendizaje y diversión se valoró con el instrumento del “semáforo”, elaborado por Palao y Hernández (2012), mientras que la intensidad se evaluó a través de la escala de percepción subjetiva del esfuerzo de Borg (1982). Los resultados muestran que el BS aumentó tras la realización del curso, y en la mayoría de sesiones los participantes consideraron haber aprendido y haberse divertido mucho, percibiendo generalmente el esfuerzo entre “bastante ligero” y “algo duro”. En definitiva, la práctica de ENI por parte de adultos institucionalizados que envecejen con discapacidades podría promover su BS y servir como una actividad física de tiempo libre que disfrutan, donde aprenden y que no requiere gran esfuerzo.
Tabula Gratulatoria
Authors: Gratulatoria Tabula
Published: November 2017

Tabula Gratulatoria
Espacio y mundos dramáticos: "Antonio y Cleopatra", de W. Shakespeare
Authors: Cueto Pérez Magdalena De Pazzi
Published: November 2017

Espacio y mundos dramáticos: "Antonio y Cleopatra", de W. Shakespeare
Archipiélago en líneas
Authors: Ramos Izquierdo Eduardo
Published: November 2017

Archipiélago en líneas
Araquistáin ante «el teatro Ibsen» como imposible dramático español
Authors: Rodríguez Sánchez de León María José
Published: November 2017

Araquistáin ante «el teatro Ibsen» como imposible dramático español
Poéticas criminales: reflexiones teóricas de escritores de novela negra y policiaca
Authors: Sánchez Zapatero Javier
Published: November 2017

Poéticas criminales: reflexiones teóricas de escritores de novela negra y policiaca
Edward Said y la figura del intelectual "amateur"
Authors: Viñas Piquer David
Published: November 2017

Edward Said y la figura del intelectual amateur
Miradas sobre Compostela en las obras de Gonzalo Torrente Ballester
Authors: Becerra Suárez Carmen
Published: November 2017

Miradas sobre Compostela en las obras de Gonzalo Torrente Ballester
La simultaneidad espacial en la poesía cubista de Gerardo Diego
Authors: Hermosilla Álvarez María Ángeles
Published: November 2017

La simultaneidad espacial en la poesía cubista de Gerardo Diego
Roberto Equisoain: la biblioteca de la sala de lectura sin lectura, 2
Authors: Blesa Túa
Published: November 2017

Roberto Equisoain: la biblioteca de la sala de lectura sin lectura, 2
"Cuatro estaciones en La Habana": de la literatura al cine, del cine a la televisión
Authors: García Talaván Paula
Published: November 2017

Cuatro estaciones en La Habana: de la literatura al cine, del cine a la televisión
El cine español de los 40 y el "rostro ordinario" de Hollywood
Authors: González García Fernando
Published: November 2017

El cine español de los 40 y el rostro ordinario de Hollywood
Vientos de guerra: oralidad y escritura en "Enviado especial" (Alfred Hitchcock, 1941)
Authors: Pueo Juan Carlos
Published: November 2017

Vientos de guerra: oralidad y escritura en Enviado especial (Alfred Hitchcock, 1941)
An Axis of Revolutionary Love
Authors: Padilla Elaine
Published: November 2017

In our time, bodies have become alienated from one another on the basis of race and ethnicity, gender and sex, and religion. To envision theologically a political posture with which to disrupt these paradigmatic structures, this essay develops a model of a politics of love based on Galatians 3:26–28, where Paul argues for “putting on” Christ in whom there is no longer Jew or Greek, slave or free, male and female (NRSV). “Putting on” serves as a reminder of a rite-act via which forms of queering identities disperse bodies away from dominant magnetic centres for the purpose of bringing to awareness and renouncing the limit as an alienating end, and announcing its potential for new kindred beginnings toward peacefulness. This essay offers a Galatian response to the current political situation in light of Gloria Anzaldúa's embodiment of the borders between the United States and Mexico, and Judith Butler's concept of parody that by exposing the normative by means of disguise can result in pastiche or the subversive mimicry of history. The essay also draws from border theory and queer theory to reframe Jean-Luc Nancy's analysis of “being-with” that for him is central to the inquiry on being human in community. It aims at offering a brief theological and philosophical roadmap to dwelling in solidarity, bodily and affectively, for the purposes of making peace. Living according to Galatians 3:26–28 demonstrates how revolutionary axes can extend oneself to the limits, denounce fragmenting practices, be affected by the alienated bodies of modern production, and mend what has been violently split apart.
Liberation, Postmodernism, and Jacques Maritain: Confronting Individualism and Collectivism in the Twenty-First Century
Authors: Schultz Walter
Published: November 2017

Jacques Maritain, one of the twentieth century's leading Christian philosophers in the Thomist tradition, offers us a temporal ideal for a universal, inclusive struggle for justice and integral liberation while retaining the unique contribution and centrality of Jesus Christ. In agreement with Gustavo Gutiérrez, Maritain acknowledges the universality of grace throughout history, although carefully retaining a supernatural model allowing for a radical fulfillment of the Kingdom of God beyond every historical moment, thereby avoiding either a Marxist or a Fukuyamaesque pronouncement concerning the end of history. For Maritain, a concrete historical ideal encapsulates in a given historical climate the best possible actualization or temporal manifestation of the integral liberation of the whole person in community, signifying redemption and heralding the Kingdom of God to come. Focusing on the human person, rights, and the common good, Maritain stands on the concrete historical ideal of the holy freedom of the individual whom grace unites to God, which has become our global ideal since its inception within the concrete events of the European Enlightenment, and the French and American revolutions of the eighteenth century. Maritain contends that individualism and collectivism represent two sides of the same solipsistic coin curtailing the pursuit of authentic personalism. A nuanced and critical approach to liberation theology and postmodernism may enhance and develop Maritain's insights into the global perspective of the twenty-first century, thereby enabling us to glimpse what is essential for a truly human and Christian understanding of liberation and redemption in the twenty-first century.
Revolutionary Love as Shared Interreligious Comparative Category: Christian Engagements with Engaged Buddhism and Gandhian Nonviolence
Authors: Thatamanil John J.
Published: November 2017

Is revolutionary love a narrowly Christian category inappropriate as a theme for the American Academy of Religion? This paper argues no. Revolutionary love can be reconfigured as a vague interreligious category. This paper does that conceptual work and then proceeds to show that both Engaged Buddhists and Gandhian Hindus can recognize revolutionary love as a meaningful category for their communities and traditions. By demonstrating that revolutionary love is no merely Christian category, this paper suggests that the theme is not only appropriate for a body such as the AAR but can also help those groups within the AAR that are interested in normative conversation across religious boundaries to have those conversations.
Three-body abrasive wear behaviour of metastable spheroidal carbide cast irons with different chromium contents
Authors: Efremenko Vasily , Shimizu Kazumichi , Pastukhova Tatiana , Chabak Yuliia , Brykov Michail , Kusumoto Kenta , Efremenko Alexey
Published: November 2017

The effect of heat treatment and chromium contents (up to 9.1 wt.%) on the wear resistance of spheroidal carbide cast iron (9.5 wt.% V) was studied using optical and scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffractometry, dilatometry and three-body abrasive testing. It was found that quenching from 760 °C and 920 °C improved the alloys’ wear resistance compared to the as-cast state due to the formation of metastable austenite transforming into martensite under abrasion. The wear characteristics of alloys studied are 1.6 – 2.3 times higher than that of reference cast iron (12 wt.% V) having stable austenitic matrix. Chromium addition decreases surface damage due to the formation of M
7C3 carbides, while it reduces wear resistance owing to austenite stabilization to abrasion-induced martensite transformation. The superposition of these factors results in decreasing the alloys’ wear behaviour with chromium content increase.
Characterization of Ion Exchange Material Behavior under Pressure Simulating Electro-Membrane Cell Conditions
Authors: Zich Ladislav , Václavíková Natália
Published: November 2017

Goal of this work was to measure dimensional changes of ion-exchange membranes and resins used in electrodialysis (ED) or electrodeionization (EDI) devices under the applied pressure and temperatures up to 60 °C in order to describe their behavior in real conditions of these processes. Regarding ion exchange resins, measurements of their compressibility were carried out with samples of gel strongly basic and strongly acidic pure resins, their mixture and macroporous strongly acidic resin. In case of ion exchange membranes, their thickness changes under the influence of pressure and temperature were measured and long-term experiments were performed with the maximal applied pressure. To obtain a complete view, ED spacer frame foil properties were also examined in long-term experiments. For each experiment, the unique work methodology and measurement apparatus was proposed. It was found that each resin exhibited specific behavior under applied pressure and temperature. Furthermore, the important impact of temperature changes on ion exchange membranes and ED spacer foils was observed, and then, it was examined under the conditions of pressure load similar to that in real ED device. This work confirms that the research of mechanical properties of ion exchange materials has a great importance, mainly if it simulates real conditions in industrial ED and EDI modules. It can help in designing new or improved module components taking into account expected temperature or pressure changes of ion exchange materials.
North Atlantic and Indian Ocean links with Iraq Climate
Authors: Al-Khalidi Jasim , Dima Mihai , Vaideanu Petru , Stefan Sabina
Published: November 2017

We investigate the connections of the North Atlantic and Indian Ocean sectors with Iraq winter/summer temperature and precipitation. Canonical Correlation Analyses (CCAs) are performed in order to identify potential links between Iraq climate and the atmospheric circulation over these two regions. Regression maps of 200 hPa and 500 hPa geopotential height and sea level pressure fields on the time series derived through CCAs are constructed in order to infer the physical mechanisms connecting the North Atlantic and Indian Ocean regions with Iraq climate. The winter temperature in this country is linked with the North Atlantic Scandinavian pattern, whereas the winter precipitation is associated with the North Atlantic Oscillation. In the free atmosphere, the connection with Iraq temperature is provided by Rossby waves, while the winter precipitation is linked to a more zonal structure. At surface, the air advection is a relevant mechanism through which North Atlantic modes appear to affect Iraq climate.
Design and Application of Magnetic Photocatalysts for Water Treatment. The Effect of Particle Charge on Surface Functionality
Authors: Zielińska-Jurek Anna , Bielan Zuzanna , Dudziak Szymon , Wolak Izabela , Sobczak Zuzanna , Klimczuk Tomasz , Nowaczyk Grzegorz , Hupka Jan
Published: November 2017

Core-interlayer-shell Fe3O4/SiO2/TiO2, CoFe2O4/SiO2/TiO2 and BaFe12O19/SiO2/TiO2 magnetic photocatalysts were obtained. A water-in-oil microemulsion system with suitable surfactants was used for functionalization of the magnetic core with silica interlayer and TiO2-based photocatalyst. Uncoated and coated particles were characterized by electrophoretic measurements, X-ray diffractometry (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), specific surface area (BET) measurements, diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) analysis. The pH of the solution and corresponding zeta potential was found to be essential for appropriate formation of ferrite core/silica interlayer/TiO2 shell nanocomposite, since the electrical charge controls interactions during functionalization of the magnetic core particles. Thus, the development of multilayer structure in the isoelectric point (IEP) region enhanced adhesion of ferrite, silica and titania particles. The obtained Fe3O4/SiO2/TiO2, CoFe2O4/SiO2/TiO2 and BaFe12O19/SiO2/TiO2 nanocomposites revealed superparamagnetic behavior. The decomposition rate of phenol and carbamazepine allowed to estimate their photocatalytic activity. Progress of photocatalytic mineralization of organic compounds was evaluated by total organic carbon (TOC) measurements. Photocatalytic activity measured in four subsequent cycles showed good reusability as no loss of efficiency of phenol degradation was observed.
Racemization of Serine Residues Catalyzed by Dihydrogen Phosphate Ion: A Computational Study
Authors: Takahashi Ohgi , Kirikoshi Ryota , Manabe Noriyoshi
Published: November 2017

Spontaneous, nonenzymatic reactions in proteins are known to have relevance to aging and age-related diseases, such as cataract and Alzheimer’s disease. Among such reactions is the racemization of Ser residues, but its mechanism in vivo remains to be clarified. The most likely intermediate is an enol. Although being nonenzymatic, the enolization would need to be catalyzed to occur at a biologically relevant rate. In the present study, we computationally found plausible reaction pathways for the enolization of a Ser residue where a dihydrogen phosphate ion, H2PO4−, acts as a catalyst. The H2PO4− ion mediates the proton transfer required for the enolization by acting simultaneously as both a general base and a general acid. Using the B3LYP density functional theory method, reaction pathways were located in the gas phase and hydration effects were evaluated by single-point calculations using the SM8 continuum model. The activation barriers calculated for the reaction pathways found were around 100 kJ mol−1, which is consistent with spontaneous reactions occurring at physiological temperature. Our results are also consistent with experimental observations that Ser residue racemization occurs more readily in flexible regions in proteins.
A Novel Metal–Organic Framework Route to Embed Co Nanoparticles into Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes for Effective Oxygen Reduction in Alkaline Media
Authors: Zhu Hong , Li Ke , Chen Minglin , Cao Hehuan , Wang Fanghui
Published: November 2017

Metal–organic framework (MOF) materials can be used as precursors to prepare non-precious metal catalysts (NPMCs) for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). Herein, we prepared a novel MOF material (denoted as Co-bpdc) and then combined it with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) to form Co-bpdc/MWCNTs composites. After calcination, the cobalt ions from Co-bpdc were converted into Co nanoparticles, which were distributed in the graphite carbon layers and MWCNTs to form Co-bpdc/MWCNTs. The prepared catalysts were characterized by TEM (Transmission electron microscopy), XRD (X-ray diffraction), XPS (X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy), BET (Brunauer–Emmett–Teller), and Raman spectroscopy. The electrocatalytic activity was measured by using rotating disk electrode (RDE) voltammetry. The catalysts showed higher ORR catalytic activity than the commercial Pt/C catalyst in alkaline solution. Co-bpdc/MWCNTs-100 showed the highest ORR catalytic activity, with an initial reduction potential and half-wave potential reaching 0.99 V and 0.92 V, respectively. The prepared catalysts also showed superior stability and followed the 4-electron pathway ORR process in alkaline solution.
Magnetic Engine for the Single-Particle Landau Problem
Authors: Peña Francisco , González Alejandro , Nunez Alvaro , Orellana Pedro , Rojas René , Vargas Patricio
Published: November 2017

We study the effect of the degeneracy factor in the energy levels of the well-known Landau problem for a magnetic engine. The scheme of the cycle is composed of two adiabatic processes and two isomagnetic processes, driven by a quasi-static modulation of external magnetic field intensity. We derive the analytical expression of the relation between the magnetic field and temperature along the adiabatic process and, in particular, reproduce the expression for the efficiency as a function of the compression ratio.
Analysis of Variance of the Effects of a Project’s Location on Key Issues and Challenges in Post-Disaster Reconstruction Projects
Authors: Ismail Dzulkarnaen , Majid Taksiah , Roosli Ruhizal
Published: November 2017

After a disaster, the reconstruction phase is driven by immediate challenges. One of the main challenges in the post-disaster period is the way that reconstruction projects are implemented. Reconstruction cannot move forward until some complex issues are settled. The purposes of this research are to highlight the issues and challenges in post-disaster reconstruction (PDR) projects and to determine the significant differences between the issues and challenges in different locations where PDR projects are carried out. The researchers collected data within international non-governmental organisations (INGOs) on their experience of working with PDR projects. The findings of this research provide the foundation on which to build strategies for avoiding project failures; this may be useful for PDR project practitioners in the future.
Optimal Capacity Configuration for Energy Hubs Considering Part-Load Characteristics of Generation Units
Authors: Deng Shan , Wu Qinghua , Jing Zhaoxia , Wu Lilan , Wei Feng , Zhou Xiaoxin
Published: November 2017

The simulation model is one of the key points affecting the optimal planning and operation of energy hubs (EHs). Since treating the efficiencies of generation units as constants would significantly simplify the calculation, only a simplified model is investigated in most research works. In this paper, aiming at optimizing the capacity configuration of an EH, we present a part-load characteristics-based (PLCB) model, in which the efficiencies of generation units will change with the fluctuating load. Based on the PLCB model, the accuracy of the EH model can be improved. Furthermore, a two-stage planning method is proposed to solve the optimal capacity configuration problem of the EH. Group Search Optimizer (GSO) is used to determine the optimal size in the first stage, and a mathematical programming method is applied to obtain the optimal operation of the EH in the second stage. Comparative studies using the PLCB model and the simplified model are performed to examine the impacts of equipment part-load characteristics on the sizing results. Simulation results indicate that the proposed model appears to have a better economic performance than the simplified model.
A Novel Electricity Transaction Mode of Microgrids Based on Blockchain and Continuous Double Auction
Authors: Wang Jian , Wang Qianggang , Zhou Niancheng , Chi Yuan
Published: November 2017

The installed capacity of distributed generation (DG) based on renewable energy sources has increased continuously in power systems, and its market-oriented transaction is imperative. However, traditional transaction management based on centralized organizations has many disadvantages, such as high operation cost, low transparency, and potential risk of transaction data modification. Therefore, a decentralized electricity transaction mode for microgrids is proposed in this study based on blockchain and continuous double auction (CDA) mechanism. A buyer and seller initially complete the transaction matching in the CDA market. In view of the frequent price fluctuation in the CDA market, an adaptive aggressiveness strategy is used to adjust the quotation timely according to market changes. DG and consumer exchange digital certificate of power and expenditure on the blockchain system and the interests of consumers are then guaranteed by multi-signature when DG cannot generate power due to failure or other reasons. The digital certification of electricity assets is replaced by the sequence number with specific tags in the transaction script, and the size of digital certification can be adjusted according to transaction energy quantity. Finally, the feasibility of market mechanism through specific microgrid case and settlement process is also provided.
High Throughput and Acceptance Ratio Multipath Routing Algorithm in Cognitive Wireless Mesh Network
Authors: Kuang Zhufang , Li Gongqiang , Tan Junshan , Chen Zhigang
Published: November 2017

The link failure due to the secondary users exiting the licensed channels when primary users reoccupy the licensed channels is very important in cognitive wireless mesh networks (CWMNs). A multipath routing and spectrum allocation algorithm based on channel interference and reusability with Quality of Service (QoS) constraints in CWMNs (MRIR) was proposed. Maximizing the throughput and the acceptance ratio of the wireless service is the objective of the MRIR. First, a primary path of resource conservation with QoS constraints was constructed, then, a resource conservation backup path based on channel interference and reusability with QoS constraints was constructed. The MRIR algorithm contains the primary path routing and spectrum allocation algorithm, and the backup path routing and spectrum allocation algorithm. The simulation results showed that the MRIR algorithm could achieve the expected goals and could achieve a higher throughput and acceptance ratio.
Consumers in a Sustainable Food Supply Chain (COSUS): Understanding Consumer Behavior to Encourage Food Waste Reduction
Authors: Rohm Harald , Oostindjer Marije , Aschemann-Witzel Jessica , Symmank Claudia , L. Almli Valérie , De Hooge Ilona , Normann Anne , Karantininis Kostas
Published: November 2017

Consumers are directly and indirectly responsible for a significant fraction of food waste which, for a large part, could be avoided if they were willing to accept food that is suboptimal, i.e., food that deviates in sensory characteristics (odd shape, discoloration), or that has a best-before date which is approaching or has passed, but that is still perfectly fine to eat. The choice to accept or discard suboptimal food is taken either before or after purchase (hence, in the retail store or in the household). The aim of the European research project COSUS (Consumers in a sustainable food supply chain) was to increase consumer acceptance of suboptimal food, before and after purchase, by implementing targeted strategies that are based on consumer insights, and that are feasible for and acceptable by the food sector. To reach this aim, different methodological approaches were applied to analyze this issue, to experiment with different aspects, and to test the resulting interventions. Each of these approaches was undertaken by competent consortium partners from Denmark, Germany, Norway, Sweden and The Netherlands. The project finally provides validated strategies to promote the distribution and consumption of suboptimal foods, thereby improving resource efficiency in the food chain and contributing to a more sustainable food supply.
Banning Asbestos in New Zealand, 1936–2016, an 80-Year Long Saga
Authors: Glass William Ivan , Armstrong Rob , Chen Grace
Published: November 2017

The banning by the New Zealand Government of the import and export of asbestos-containing products resulted from the interplay of a number of factors. At a personal level, there were the actions of the asbestos sufferers, their families and support groups. At the political level, there were the activities of progressive trade union groups representing the hazardous trades, such as labourers, construction workers and demolition workers, and at a Government level, there was a positive response to these public health pressures. The Prohibition Order 2016 concerning Imports and Exports (asbestos-containing products) was the outcome of this 80-year long saga.
Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Human Skin Diseases Due to Particulate Matter
Authors: Ngoc Le , Park Duckshin , Lee Yongil , Lee Young-Chul
Published: November 2017

This study investigated the effects of particulate matter (PM) on human skin diseases by conducting a systematic review of existing literature and performing a meta-analysis. It considered articles reporting an original effect of PM on human skin. From among 918 articles identified, 13 articles were included for further consideration after manual screening of the articles resulted in the exclusion of articles that did not contain data, review articles, editorials, and also articles in languages other than English. Random-effects models and forest plots were used to estimate the effect of PM on the skin by Meta-Disc analysis. According to people’s reports of exposure and negative skin effects (atopic dermatitis (AD), eczema, and skin aging, etc.) due to air pollution, the summary relative risk (odds ratio) of PM10 was determined to be 0.99 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.89–1.11) whereas PM2.5 was determined to be 1.04 (95% CI 0.96–1.12). Simultaneously, there was a different extent of impact between PM10 and PM2.5 on atopic dermatitis (AD) for those of young age: the odds ratio of PM10 and PM2.5 were 0.96 (95% CI 0.83–1.11; I2 = 62.7%) and 1.05 (95% CI 0.95–1.16; I2 = 46%), respectively. Furthermore, the results suggest an estimated increase of disease incidence per 10 μg/m3 PM of 1.01% (0.08–2.05) due to PM10 and 1.60% (0.45–2.82) due to PM2.5. Following the results, PM10 and PM2.5 are associated with increased risks of human skin diseases, especially AD, whose risk is higher in infants and school children. With its smaller size and a high concentration of metals, PM2.5 is more closely related to AD in younger people, compared to PM10.
Investigation of Health Effects According to the Exposure of Low Concentration Arsenic Contaminated Ground Water
Authors: Hong Young-seoub , Ye Byeong-jin , Kim Yu-mi , Kim Byoung-gwon , Kang Gyeong-hui , Kim Jeong-jin , Song Ki-hoon , Kim Young-hun , Seo Jeong-wook
Published: November 2017

Recent epidemiological studies have reported adverse health effects, including skin cancer, due to low concentrations of arsenic via drinking water. We conducted a study to assess whether low arsenic contaminated ground water affected health of the residents who consumed it. For precise biomonitoring results, the inorganic (trivalent arsenite (As III) and pentavalent arsenate (As V)) and organic forms (monomethylarsonate (MMA) and dimethylarsinate (DMA)) of arsenic were separately quantified by combining high-performance liquid chromatography and inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy from urine samples. In conclusion, urinary As III, As V, MMA, and hair arsenic concentrations were significantly higher in residents who consumed arsenic contaminated ground water than control participants who consumed tap water. But, most health screening results did not show a statistically significant difference between exposed and control subjects. We presume that the elevated arsenic concentrations may not be sufficient to cause detectable health effects. Consumption of arsenic contaminated ground water could result in elevated urinary organic and inorganic arsenic concentrations. We recommend immediate discontinuation of ground water supply in this area for the safety of the residents.
Depressive Symptom and Related Factors: A Cross-Sectional Study of Korean Female Workers Working at Traditional Markets
Authors: Hwang Won Ju , Kim Jin Ah , Rankin Sally H.
Published: November 2017

Background: Depression is one of the psychiatric diseases with a high prevalence rate, globally, and reportedly more prevalent among women than among men. Especially, women workers working at traditional markets are in depressive conditions without occupational health services. The purpose of this study is to investigate factors having a significant effect on the depressive symptoms of women workers at traditional markets in South Korea. Methods: A cross-sectional study was used and subjects for the present study were 500 female workers in three selected representative traditional marketplaces in South Korea. Results: The results of hierarchical regression analysis indicated that increased BMI (β = 0.297, p = 0.017), poor nutritional status (β = 0.596, p < 0.001), street vendor status (β = 2.589, p = 0.001), job stress (β = 0.491, p < 0.001), lower back pain (β = 0.377, p = 0.011), lower self-efficacy (β = −0.368, p = 0.002) and diminished family function (β = −0.633, p = 0.001) affected workers’ depressive symptoms. The explanatory power of these variables was 38.5%. Conclusions: Based on these results, future research should focus on incorporating theses significant factors into effective interventions designed to decrease depressive symptoms in this population. Moreover, this study will increase interest in occupational health nursing, particularly in relation to vulnerable social groups, and expand the scope of practice in the field.
Cortisol Awakening Response, Internalizing Symptoms, and Life Satisfaction in Emerging Adults
Authors: Chong Li , Thai Michelle , Cullen Kathryn , Lim Kelvin , Klimes-Dougan Bonnie
Published: November 2017

The cortisol awakening response (CAR) has been associated with depression and a broader range of internalizing problems. Emerging adulthood is characterized by numerous stressful transitional life events. Furthermore, the functioning of the neurobiological stress system changes across development. These considerations underscore the importance of evaluating the physiological stress system in emerging adults in identifying the extent to which cortisol levels vary with risk and protective factors for mental health. The present study evaluated the association between internalizing symptoms and perceived life satisfaction with CAR in 32 young adults. Three saliva samples were collected to measure cortisol levels upon awakening and participants completed the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS) and Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS). Results show a significant positive correlation between area under the curve for CAR with internalizing symptoms (DASS total) and the DASS-depression subscale, but not with life satisfaction. Study limitations, implications, and future directions for these finding were discussed.
Translational Aspects of Sphingolipid Metabolism in Renal Disorders
Authors: Abou Daher Alaa , El Jalkh Tatiana , Eid Assaad , Fornoni Alessia , Marples Brian , Zeidan Youssef
Published: November 2017

Sphingolipids, long thought to be passive components of biological membranes with merely a structural role, have proved throughout the past decade to be major players in the pathogenesis of many human diseases. The study and characterization of several genetic disorders like Fabry’s and Tay Sachs, where sphingolipid metabolism is disrupted, leading to a systemic array of clinical symptoms, have indeed helped elucidate and appreciate the importance of sphingolipids and their metabolites as active signaling molecules. In addition to being involved in dynamic cellular processes like apoptosis, senescence and differentiation, sphingolipids are implicated in critical physiological functions such as immune responses and pathophysiological conditions like inflammation and insulin resistance. Interestingly, the kidneys are among the most sensitive organ systems to sphingolipid alterations, rendering these molecules and the enzymes involved in their metabolism, promising therapeutic targets for numerous nephropathic complications that stand behind podocyte injury and renal failure.
Genetic Polymorphism of miR-196a-2 is Associated with Bone Mineral Density (BMD)
Authors: Karabegović Irma , Maas Silvana , Medina-Gomez Carolina , Zrimšek Maša , Reppe Sjur , Gautvik Kaare , Uitterlinden André , Rivadeneira Fernando , Ghanbari Mohsen
Published: November 2017

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNA molecules that post-transcriptionally regulate the translation of messenger RNAs. Given the crucial role of miRNAs in gene expression, genetic variants within miRNA-related sequences may affect miRNA function and contribute to disease risk. Osteoporosis is characterized by reduced bone mass, and bone mineral density (BMD) is a major diagnostic proxy to assess osteoporosis risk. Here, we aimed to identify miRNAs that are involved in BMD using data from recent genome-wide association studies (GWAS) on femoral neck, lumbar spine and forearm BMD. Of 242 miRNA-variants available in the GWAS data, we found rs11614913:C > T in the precursor miR-196a-2 to be significantly associated with femoral neck-BMD (p-value = 9.9 × 10−7, β = −0.038) and lumbar spine-BMD (p-value = 3.2 × 10−11, β = −0.061). Furthermore, our sensitivity analyses using the Rotterdam study data showed a sex-specific association of rs11614913 with BMD only in women. Subsequently, we highlighted a number of miR-196a-2 target genes, expressed in bone and associated with BMD, that may mediate the miRNA function in BMD. Collectively, our results suggest that miR-196a-2 may contribute to variations in BMD level. Further biological investigations will give more insights into the mechanisms by which miR-196a-2 control expression of BMD-related genes.
BCL11A mRNA Targeting by miR-210: A Possible Network Regulating γ-Globin Gene Expression
Authors: Gasparello Jessica , Fabbri Enrica , Bianchi Nicoletta , Breveglieri Giulia , Zuccato Cristina , Borgatti Monica , Gambari Roberto , Finotti Alessia
Published: November 2017

The involvement of microRNAs in the control of repressors of human γ-globin gene transcription has been firmly demonstrated, as described for the miR-486-3p mediated down-regulation of BCL11A. On the other hand, we have reported that miR-210 is involved in erythroid differentiation and, possibly, in γ-globin gene up-regulation. In the present study, we have identified the coding sequence of BCL11A as a possible target of miR-210. The following results sustain this hypothesis: (a) interactions between miR-210 and the miR-210 BCL11A site were demonstrated by SPR-based biomolecular interaction analysis (BIA); (b) the miR-210 site of BCL11A is conserved through molecular evolution; (c) forced expression of miR-210 leads to decrease of BCL11A-XL and increase of γ-globin mRNA content in erythroid cells, including erythroid precursors isolated from β-thalassemia patients. Our study suggests that the coding mRNA sequence of BCL11A can be targeted by miR-210. In addition to the theoretical point of view, these data are of interest from the applied point of view, supporting a novel strategy to inhibit BCL11A by mimicking miR-210 functions, accordingly with the concept supported by several papers and patent applications that inhibition of BCL11A is an efficient strategy for fetal hemoglobin induction in the treatment of β-thalassemia.
TGF-β1 in Vascular Wall Pathology: Unraveling Chronic Venous Insufficiency Pathophysiology
Authors: Serralheiro Pedro , Soares Andreia , Costa Almeida Carlos , Verde Ignacio
Published: November 2017

Chronic venous insufficiency and varicose veins occur commonly in affluent countries and are a socioeconomic burden. However, there remains a relative lack of knowledge about venous pathophysiology. Various theories have been suggested, yet the molecular sequence of events is poorly understood. Transforming growth factor-beta one (TGF-β1) is a highly complex polypeptide with multifunctional properties that has an active role during embryonic development, in adult organ physiology and in the pathophysiology of major diseases, including cancer and various autoimmune, fibrotic and cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, an emphasis on understanding its signaling pathways (and possible disruptions) will be an essential requirement for a better comprehension and management of specific diseases. This review aims at shedding more light on venous pathophysiology by describing the TGF-β1 structure, function, activation and signaling, and providing an overview of how this growth factor and disturbances in its signaling pathway may contribute to specific pathological processes concerning the vessel wall which, in turn, may have a role in chronic venous insufficiency.
Could −79 °C Spray-Type Cryotherapy Be an Effective Monotherapy for the Treatment of Keloid?
Authors: Park Tae Hwan , Cho Hyeon-Ju , Lee Jang Won , Kim Chan Woo , Chong Yosep , Chang Choong Hyun , Park Kyung-Soon
Published: November 2017

Cryotherapy has been regarded as an effective modality for the treatment of keloids, and the spray-type device is one of the novel cryotherapeutic units. However, the biological mechanisms and therapeutic effects of this technique are incompletely studied. We evaluated the clinical efficacy of our cryotherapy protocol with molecular and pathologic evidence for the treatment of keloids. We evenly split each of ten keloid lesions into a non-treated (C−) and treated (C+) area; the C+ area was subjected to two freeze-thaw cycles of spray-type cryotherapy using −79 °C spray-type CryoPen™. This treatment was repeated after an interval of two weeks. The proliferation and migration abilities of the fibroblasts isolated from the dermis under the cryotherapy-treated or untreated keloid tissues (at least 5 mm deep) were compared and pathologic findings of the full layer were evaluated. Molecular analysis revealed that the number of dermal fibroblasts was significantly higher in C+ group as compared with C− group. The dermal fibroblasts from C+ group showed more than two-fold increase in the migration ability as compared with the fibroblasts from C− group. The expression of matrix metallopeptidase 9 was increased by more than two-fold and a significant increase in transforming growth factor beta 1 expression and Smad2/3 phosphorylation level was observed in C+ group. C+ group showed more extensive lymphoplasmacytic infiltration with thicker fibrosis and occasional “proliferating core collagen” as compared with C− group. Thus, −79 °C spray-type cryotherapy is ineffective as a monotherapy and should be used in combination with intralesional corticosteroids or botulinum toxin A for favourable outcomes in the treatment of thick keloids.
Thermodynamic Aspects and Reprogramming Cellular Energy Metabolism during the Fibrosis Process
Authors: Vallée Alexandre , Lecarpentier Yves , Vallée Jean-Noël
Published: November 2017

Fibrosis is characterized by fibroblast proliferation and fibroblast differentiation into myofibroblasts, which generate a relaxation-free contraction mechanism associated with excessive collagen synthesis in the extracellular matrix, which promotes irreversible tissue retraction evolving towards fibrosis. From a thermodynamic point of view, the mechanisms leading to fibrosis are irreversible processes that can occur through changing the entropy production rate. The thermodynamic behaviors of metabolic enzymes involved in fibrosis are modified by the dysregulation of both transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) signaling and the canonical WNT/β-catenin pathway, leading to aerobic glycolysis, called the Warburg effect. Molecular signaling pathways leading to fibrosis are considered dissipative structures that exchange energy or matter with their environment far from the thermodynamic equilibrium. The myofibroblastic cells arise from exergonic processes by switching the core metabolism from oxidative phosphorylation to glycolysis, which generates energy and reprograms cellular energy metabolism to induce the process of myofibroblast differentiation. Circadian rhythms are far-from-equilibrium thermodynamic processes. They directly participate in regulating the TGF-β and WNT/β-catenin pathways involved in energetic dysregulation and enabling fibrosis. The present review focusses on the thermodynamic implications of the reprogramming of cellular energy metabolism, leading to fibroblast differentiation into myofibroblasts through the positive interplay between TGF-β and WNT/β-catenin pathways underlying in fibrosis.
The Roles of microRNAs in Regulating the Expression of PD-1/PD-L1 Immune Checkpoint
Authors: Wang Qingshui , Lin Wei , Tang Xiaoqiong , Li Suhuan , Guo Libin , Lin Yao , Kwok Hang
Published: November 2017

Engagement of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) with its receptor programmed death 1 (PD-1) on T cells has been speculated to play a major role in suppressing the immune system, which helps tumor cells evade anti-tumor immunity. With the development of whole genome sequencing technologies, microRNAs have gained more attention as an important new layer of molecular regulation. Recent studies have revealed that altered expression of microRNAs play a pivotal role in immune checkpoint and various cellular processes in cancer. In this review, we focused on the latest progress about microRNAs research which involves the regulation of PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint.
Ketamine, a Clinically Used Anesthetic, Inhibits Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Proliferation via PP2A-Activated PI3K/Akt/ERK Inhibition
Authors: Chang Yi , Li Jiun-Yi , Jayakumar Thanasekaran , Hung Shou-Huang , Lee Wei-Cheng , Manubolu Manjunath , Sheu Joen-Rong , Hsu Ming-Jen
Published: November 2017

Abnormal proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) gives rise to major pathological processes involved in the development of cardiovascular diseases. The use of anti-proliferative agents for VSMCs offers potential for the treatment of vascular disorders. Intravenous anesthetics are firmly established to have direct effects on VSMCs, resulting in modulation of blood pressure. Ketamine has been used for many years in the intensive care unit (ICU) for sedation, and has recently been considered for adjunctive therapy. In the present study, we investigated the effects of ketamine on platelet-derived growth factor BB (PDGF-BB)-induced VSMC proliferation and the associated mechanism. Ketamine concentration-dependently inhibited PDGF-BB-induced VSMC proliferation without cytotoxicity, and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) and extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK) inhibitors, LY294002 and PD98059, respectively, have similar inhibitory effects. Ketamine was shown to attenuate PI3K, Akt, and ERK1/2 phosphorylation induced by PDGF-BB. Okadaic acid, a selective protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) inhibitor, significantly reversed ketamine-mediated PDGF-BB-induced PI3K, Akt, and ERK1/2 phosphorylation; a transfected protein phosphatse 2a (pp2a) siRNA reversed Akt and ERK1/2 phosphorylation; and 3-O-Methyl-sphingomyeline (3-OME), an inhibitor of sphingomyelinase, also significantly reversed ERK1/2 phosphorylation. Moreover, ketamine alone significantly inhibited tyrosine phosphorylation and demethylation of PP2A in a concentration-dependent manner. In addition, the pp2a siRNA potently reversed the ketamine-activated catalytic subunit (PP2A-C) of PP2A. These results provide evidence of an anti-proliferating effect of ketamine in VSMCs, showing activation of PP2A blocks PI3K, Akt, and ERK phosphorylation that subsequently inhibits the proliferation of VSMCs. Thus, ketamine may be considered a potential effective therapeutic agent for reducing atherosclerotic process by blocking the proliferation of VSMCs.
RNA Chaperone Function of a Universal Stress Protein in Arabidopsis Confers Enhanced Cold Stress Tolerance in Plants
Authors: Melencion Sarah Mae Boyles , Chi Yong Hun , Pham Thuy Thi , Paeng Seol Ki , Wi Seong Dong , Lee Changyu , Ryu Seoung Woo , Koo Sung Sun , Lee Sang Yeol
Published: November 2017

The physiological function of Arabidopsis thaliana universal stress protein (AtUSP) in plant has remained unclear. Thus, we report here the functional role of the Arabidopsis universal stress protein, AtUSP (At3g53990). To determine how AtUSP affects physiological responses towards cold stress, AtUSP overexpression (AtUSP OE) and T-DNA insertion knock-out (atusp, SALK_146059) mutant lines were used. The results indicated that AtUSP OE enhanced plant tolerance to cold stress, whereas atusp did not. AtUSP is localized in the nucleus and cytoplasm, and cold stress significantly affects RNA metabolism such as by misfolding and secondary structure changes of RNA. Therefore, we investigated the relationship of AtUSP with RNA metabolism. We found that AtUSP can bind nucleic acids, including single- and double-stranded DNA and luciferase mRNA. AtUSP also displayed strong nucleic acid-melting activity. We expressed AtUSP in RL211 Escherichia coli, which contains a hairpin-loop RNA structure upstream of chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (CAT), and observed that AtUSP exhibited anti-termination activity that enabled CAT gene expression. AtUSP expression in the cold-sensitive Escherichia coli (E. coli) mutant BX04 complemented the cold sensitivity of the mutant cells. As these properties are typical characteristics of RNA chaperones, we conclude that AtUSP functions as a RNA chaperone under cold-shock conditions. Thus, the enhanced tolerance of AtUSP OE lines to cold stress is mediated by the RNA chaperone function of AtUSP.
Certain Concepts in Intuitionistic Neutrosophic Graph Structures
Authors: Akram Muhammad , Sitara Muzzamal
Published: November 2017

A graph structure is a generalization of simple graphs. Graph structures are very useful tools for the study of different domains of computational intelligence and computer science. In this research paper, we introduce certain notions of intuitionistic neutrosophic graph structures. We illustrate these notions by several examples. We investigate some related properties of intuitionistic neutrosophic graph structures. We also present an application of intuitionistic neutrosophic graph structures.
Effect of the Chemical Composition of Simulated Body Fluids on Aerogel-Based Bioactive Composites
Authors: Győri Enikő , Fábián István , Lázár István
Published: November 2017

Replacement of damaged or missing bone tissue is a serious problem in orthopedic surgery. Although various artificial materials are available, none of them fulfil the requirements completely. In this study, new bone substitute materials, silica aerogel-based β-tricalcium phosphate, and hydroxyapatite composite ceramics, along with a control sample were synthesized and tested. Porosities and pore size distribution curves were determined by nitrogen gas adsorption/desorption porosimetry, and surface morphology changes were studied by scanning electron microscopy. Bioactivities were tested in vitro by soaking the samples in simulated body fluids (SBF). Three new advanced SBFs containing eight essential amino acids and bovine serum albumin were developed, extending the complexity of the original simulated body fluid in order to approximate the human blood plasma’s composition more accurately. Each sample was treated with SBF1–SBF4 for two weeks. According to our results, it seems to be necessary to re-evaluate hydroxyapatite deposition as proof of bioactivity of artificial bone substitutes when synthetic body fluids analogous in their composition to human blood plasma are used in studies.