bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of Pathogens Related to Bovine Respiratory Disease Before and After Transportation in Beef Steers: Preliminary Results
Authors: Cirone Francesco , Padalino Barbara , Tullio Daniele , Capozza Paolo , Losurdo Michele , Lanave Gianvito , Pratelli Annamaria
Published: December 2019

Bovine respiratory disease (BRD) is a serious health and economic problem in the beef industry, which is often associated with transportation and caused by different pathogens. The prevalence of bovine herpesvirus type 1 (BoHV-1), bovine adenovirus (BAdV), bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV), bovine coronavirus (BCoV), bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV), bovine parainfluenza virus (BPiV), Pasteurella multocida, Mannheimia haemolytica, Histophilus somni, Mycoplasma bovis, in the nasal microbiota of beef steers before and after the same long-distance journey from France to southern Italy was documented. Fifty-six Limousine animals of three different shipments, travelling on three different days from February to April, were included. Prior to shipment (T0) and four days after arrival (T1), two DNS/animal were collected and tested by Real Time quantitative PCR (qPCR). Univariate logistic regression was carried out, considering time and day as fixed factors and the outcome of qPCR for each pathogen as a dependent categorical dichotomous variable (positive/negative, 1/0). The fact that the number of H. somni positive animals were found to be higher in the third shipment than the first and second one, indicating that this pathogen was already present before loading, is relevant. The prevalence of BCoV, BRSV, M. haemolytica, M. bovis, P. multocida was higher at T1 than T0, suggesting that other factors, such as stress and the epidemiological status of the arrival farm, played a role. The tested animals were not treated before and after transport, and our results are in agreement with the current literature, supporting the hypothesis that the prevalence of pathogens related to BRD would increase after travelling, with an increased risk of pathogens shedding.
Using Thermal Imaging to Monitor Body Temperature of Koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) in A Zoo Setting
Authors: Narayan Edward , Perakis Annabella , Meikle Will
Published: December 2019

Non-invasive techniques can be applied for monitoring the physiology and behaviour of wildlife in Zoos to improve management and welfare. Thermal imaging technology has been used as a non-invasive technique to measure the body temperature of various domesticated and wildlife species. In this study, we evaluated the application of thermal imaging to measure the body temperature of koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) in a Zoo environment. The aim of the study was to determine the body feature most suitable for recording a koala’s body temperature (using coefficient of variation scores). We used a FLIR530TM IR thermal imaging camera to take images of each individual koala across three days in autumn 2018 at the Wildlife Sydney Zoo, Australia. Our results demonstrated that koalas had more than one reliable body feature for recording body temperature using the thermal imaging tool—the most reliable features were eyes and abdomen. This study provides first reported application of thermal imaging on an Australian native species in a Zoo and demonstrates its potential applicability as a humane/non-invasive technique for assessing the body temperature as an index of stress.
Effects of Aerosols as Ice Nuclei on the Dynamics, Microphysics and Precipitation of Severe Storm Clouds
Authors: Yang Huiling , Xiao Hui , Guo Chunwei
Published: December 2019

The Regional Atmospheric Modeling System (RAMS) is used to investigate the effect of aerosols acting as ice nuclei (IN) on the formation and growth of hydrometeor particles as well as on the dynamics and precipitation of a severe storm in Northern China. The focus of this study is to determine how the overall dynamics and microphysical structure of deep convective clouds are influenced if IN concentrations are somehow altered in a storm environment that is otherwise unchanged. Ice mixing ratios tend to increase and liquid mixing ratios tend to decrease with increasing IN concentrations. High concentrations of IN reduce the mean hail diameter and hail particles with smaller diameters melt more easily, which leads to a decrease in ground hailfall and an increase in surface rainfall. Liquid water plays a more important role in the process of hail formation, while the role of ice particles in the process of hail formation decreases with higher IN concentrations. The role of small cloud droplets in the formation of raindrops is increased and the role of hail melting in the process of raindrops formation is weakened with enhanced IN concentrations. Both latent heat release and absorption significantly increase with increasing IN concentrations. Increasing the concentration of IN by an appropriate amount is beneficial for increasing the total water content and strengthening the updraft, leading to enhancement of a storm, but excessive IN concentrations will inhibit the development of a storm.
A Novel Small Molecule Inhibits Intrahepatocellular Accumulation of Z-Variant Alpha 1-Antitrypsin In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Zhang Xiaojuan , Pham Kien , Li Danmeng , Schutte Ryan J. , Gonzalo David Hernandez , Zhang Penghui , Oshins Regina , Tan Weihong , Brantly Mark , Liu Chen , Ostrov David A.
Published: December 2019

Alpha 1-antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) is the most common genetic cause of liver disease in children and is associated with early-onset chronic liver disease in adults. AATD associated liver injury is caused by hepatotoxic retention of polymerized mutant alpha 1-antitrypsin molecules within the endoplasmic reticulum. Currently, there is no curative therapy for AATD. In this study, we selected small molecules with the potential to bind mutant alpha 1-antitrypsin (Z-variant) to inhibit its accumulation in hepatocytes. We used molecular docking to select candidate compounds that were validated in cell and animal models of disease. A crystal structure of polymerized alpha 1-antitrypsin molecule was used as the basis for docking 139,735 compounds. Effects of the top scoring compounds were investigated in a cell model that stably expresses Z-variant alpha 1-antitrypsin and in PiZ mice expressing Z-variant human alpha 1-antitrypsin (Z-hAAT), encoded by SERPINA1*E342K. 4′,′5-(Methylenedioxy)-2-nitrocinnamic acid was predicted to bind cleaved alpha 1-antitrypsin at the polymerization interface, and observed to co-localize with Z-hAAT, increase Z-hAAT degradation, inhibit intracellular accumulation of Z-hAAT, and alleviate liver fibrosis.
Optimization of Friction Stir Process Parameters for Enhancement in Surface Properties of Al 7075-SiC/Gr Hybrid Surface Composites
Authors: Patil Namdev Ashok , Pedapati Srinivasa Rao , Mamat Othman Bin , Hidayat Syah Lubis Abdul Munir
Published: December 2019

Friction stir processing (FSP) has evolved as an important technique in fabrication of metal matrix composites. The surface properties enhancement is obtainable by insertion of desired discontinuous particular reinforcements into base alloy using FSP. Despite having high specific strength, more applications of Al alloys are restricted due to their poor surface properties under various loading conditions. In this study, the main focus is on enhancing the microhardness and wear properties of Al 7075 base alloy by means of uniform dispersion of silicon carbide and graphite (SiC/Gr) nano particles into the base alloy using the FSP technique. The tool rotational speed (w: 500, 1000, 1500 rpm), tool traverse speed (v: 20, 30, 40 mm/min), reinforcement particles hybrid ratio (HR: 60:40, 75:25, 90:10) and volume percentage (vol%: 4%, 8%, 12%) are used as independent parameters. The effect of these parameters on microstructure, micro hardness and wear properties of surface composites are studied in detail. For desired wear rate and microhardness as responses, the aforementioned independent parameters are optimized using response surface methodology (RSM). The significance of factors and their interactions for maximizing hardness and minimizing wear rate and coefficient of friction (COF) were determined. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) for responses has been carried out, and the models were found to be significant in all three responses. The minimum wear rate of 0.01194 mg/m was obtained for parameters w 1500 rpm, v 40 mm/min, HR 60:40, vol% 4 (Run 10). The maximum micro hardness of 300 HV obtained for parameters w 1000 rpm, v 30 mm/min, HR 75:25, vol% 12 (Run 14). The presence and uniform distribution of SiC and Gr into the base alloy was confirmed through field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) imaging, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and mapping tests. The wear rate and COF decreased significantly due to graphitized mechanically mixed layer developed at the sliding contacts. The microhardness of resultant composites observed to be dependent on effect of the independent parameters on extent of inherent precipitates dissolution and grain size strengthening in the resultant materials.
Effect of Top Channel Thickness in Near Infrared Organic Phototransistors with Conjugated Polymer Gate-Sensing Layers
Authors: Park Jisu , Kim Hwajeong , Kim Taehoon , Lee Chulyeon , Song Dong-Ik , Kim Youngkyoo
Published: December 2019

Here, we report the thickness effect of top channel layers (CLs) on the performance of near infrared (NIR)-detecting organic phototransistors (OPTRs) with conjugated polymer gate-sensing layers (GSLs). Poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT) was employed as a top CL, while poly[{2,5-bis-(2-octyldodecyl)-3,6-bis-(thien-2-yl)-pyrrolo[3,4-c]pyrrole-1,4-diyl}-co-{2,2′-(2,1,3-benzothiadiazole)-5,5′-diyl}] (PODTPPD-BT) was used as a GSL. The thickness of P3HT CLs was varied from 10 to 70 nm. Three different wavelengths of NIR light (λ = 780, 905, and 1000 nm) were introduced and their light intensity was fixed to 0.27 mW cm−2. Results showed that all fabricated devices exhibited typical p-channel transistor behaviors and the highest drain current in the dark was obtained at the P3HT thickness (t) of 50 nm. The NIR illumination test revealed that the NIR photoresponsivity (RC) of GSL-OPTRs could be achieved at t = 50 nm irrespective of the NIR wavelength. The maximum RC of the optimized devices (t = 50 nm) reached ca. 61% at λ = 780 nm and ca. 47% at λ = 1000 nm compared to the theoretical maximum photoresponsivity.
Thermo-Economic Assessment of a Gas Microturbine-Absorption Chiller Trigeneration System under Different Compressor Inlet Air Temperatures
Authors: Valencia Ochoa Guillermo , Acevedo Peñaloza Carlos , Duarte Forero Jorge
Published: December 2019

This manuscript presents a thermo-economic analysis for a trigeneration system integrated by an absorption refrigeration chiller, a gas microturbine, and the heat recovery steam generation subsystem. The effect of the compressor inlet air temperature on the thermo-economic performance of the trigeneration system was studied and analyzed in detail based on a validated model. Then, we determined the critical operating conditions for which the trigeneration system presents the greatest exergy destruction, producing an increase in the costs associated with loss of exergy, relative costs, and operation and maintenance costs. The results also show that the combustion chamber of the gas microturbine is the component with the greatest exergy destruction (29.24%), followed by the generator of the absorption refrigeration chiller (26.25%). In addition, the compressor inlet air temperature increases from 305.15 K to 315.15 K, causing a decrease in the relative cost difference of the evaporator (21.63%). Likewise, the exergo-economic factor in the heat exchanger and generator presented an increase of 6.53% and 2.84%, respectively.
The Influence of Tree Structural and Species Diversity on Temperate Forest Productivity and Stability in Korea
Authors: Park Juhan , Kim Hyun Seok , Jo Hyun Kook , Jung II Bin
Published: December 2019

Research Highlights: Using a long-term dataset on temperate forests in South Korea, we established the interrelationships between tree species and structural diversity and forest productivity and stability, and identified a strong, positive effect of structural diversity, rather than tree species diversity, on productivity and stability. Background and Objectives: Globally, species diversity is positively related with forest productivity. However, temperate forests often show a negative or neutral relationship. In those forests, structural diversity, instead of tree species diversity, could control the forest function. Materials and Methods: This study tested the effects of tree species and structural diversity on temperate forest productivity. The basal area increment and relative changes in stand density were used as proxies for forest productivity and stability, respectively. Results: Here we show that structural diversity, but not species diversity, had a significant, positive effect on productivity, whereas species diversity had a negative effect, despite a positive effect on diversity. Structural diversity also promoted fewer changes in stand density between two periods, whereas species diversity showed no such relation. Structurally diverse forests might use resources efficiently through increased canopy complexity due to canopy plasticity. Conclusions: These results indicate reported species diversity effects could be related to structural diversity. They also highlight the importance of managing structurally diverse forests to improve productivity and stability in stand density, which may promote sustainability of forests.
Allometric Models for Predicting Aboveground Biomass of Trees in the Dry Afromontane Forests of Northern Ethiopia
Authors: Tetemke Buruh Abebe , Birhane Emiru , Rannestad Meley Mekonen , Eid Tron
Published: December 2019

Dry Afromontane forests form the largest part of the existing natural vegetation in Ethiopia. Nevertheless, models for quantifying aboveground tree biomass (AGB) of these forests are rare. The objective of this study was, therefore, to develop local multispecies and species-specific AGB models for dry Afromontane forests in northern Ethiopia and to test the accuracy of some potentially relevant, previously developed AGB models. A total of 86 sample trees consisting of ten dominant tree species were harvested to develop the models. A set of models relating AGB to diameter at breast height (DBH) or at stump height (DSH), height (H), crown area (CA), and wood basic density (ρ) were fitted. Model evaluation and selection was based on statistical significance of model parameter estimates, relative mean root-square-error (rMRSE), relative bias (rBias), and Akaike Information Criterion (AIC). A leave-one-out cross-validation procedure was used to compute rMRSE and rBias. The best multispecies model, which includes DSH, CA, and ρ as predictors, explained more than 95% of the variability in AGB. The best species-specific models for the two dominant species, with DBH or DSH as the sole predictor, also explained more than 96% of the variability in AGB. Higher biases from the previously published models compared to the best models from this study show the need to develop local models for more accurate biomass estimation. The developed models allow to quantify AGB with a high level of accuracy for our site, and they can potentially be applied in dry Afromontane forests elsewhere in Ethiopia if species composition and growing conditions are carefully evaluated before an application is done.
Post-Fire Carbon Dynamics in Subalpine Forests of the Rocky Mountains
Authors: Bartowitz Kristina J. , Higuera Philip E. , Shuman Bryan N. , McLauchlan Kendra K. , Hudiburg Tara W.
Published: December 2019

Forests store a large amount of terrestrial carbon, but this storage capacity is vulnerable to wildfire. Combustion, and subsequent tree mortality and soil erosion, can lead to increased carbon release and decreased carbon uptake. Previous work has shown that non-constant fire return intervals over the past 4000 years strongly shaped subalpine forest carbon trajectories. The extent to which fire-regime variability has impacted carbon trajectories in other subalpine forest types is unknown. Here, we explored the interactions between fire and carbon dynamics of 14 subalpine watersheds in Colorado, USA. We tested the impact of varying fire frequency over a ~2000 year period on ecosystem productivity and carbon storage using an improved biogeochemical model. High fire frequency simulations had overall lower carbon stocks across all sites compared to scenarios with lower fire frequencies, highlighting the importance of fire-frequency in determining ecosystem carbon storage. Additionally, variability in fire-free periods strongly influenced carbon trajectories across all the sites. Biogeochemical trajectories (e.g., increasing or decreasing total ecosystem carbon and carbon-to-nitrogen (C:N) ratios) did not vary among forest types but there were trends that they may vary by elevation. Lower-elevations sites had lower overall soil C:N ratios, potentially because of higher fire frequencies reducing carbon inputs more than nitrogen losses over time. Additional measurements of ecosystem response to fire-regime variability will be essential for improving estimates of carbon dynamics from Earth system models.
ZZ/ZW Sex Determination with Multiple Neo-Sex Chromosomes is Common in Madagascan Chameleons of the Genus Furcifer (Reptilia: Chamaeleonidae)
Authors: Rovatsos Michail , Altmanová Marie , Augstenová Barbora , Mazzoleni Sofia , Velenský Petr , Kratochvíl Lukáš
Published: December 2019

Chameleons are well-known, highly distinctive lizards characterized by unique morphological and physiological traits, but their karyotypes and sex determination system have remained poorly studied. We studied karyotypes in six species of Madagascan chameleons of the genus Furcifer by classical (conventional stain, C-banding) and molecular (comparative genomic hybridization, in situ hybridization with rDNA, microsatellite, and telomeric sequences) cytogenetic approaches. In contrast to most sauropsid lineages, the chameleons of the genus Furcifer show chromosomal variability even among closely related species, with diploid chromosome numbers varying from 2n = 22 to 2n = 28. We identified female heterogamety with cytogenetically distinct Z and W sex chromosomes in all studied species. Notably, multiple neo-sex chromosomes in the form Z1Z1Z2Z2/Z1Z2W were uncovered in four species of the genus (F. bifidus, F. verrucosus, F. willsii, and previously studied F. pardalis). Phylogenetic distribution and morphology of sex chromosomes suggest that multiple sex chromosomes, which are generally very rare among vertebrates with female heterogamety, possibly evolved several times within the genus Furcifer. Although acrodontan lizards (chameleons and dragon lizards) demonstrate otherwise notable variability in sex determination, it seems that female heterogamety with differentiated sex chromosomes remained stable in the chameleons of the genus Furcifer for about 30 million years.
New Directions in Police Academy Training: A Call to Action
Authors: Blumberg Daniel M. , Schlosser Michael D. , Papazoglou Konstantinos , Creighton Sarah , Kaye Chief Chuck
Published: December 2019

The complexities of modern policing require law enforcement agencies to expand how officers are trained to do their jobs. It is not sufficient for training to focus solely on the law or on perishable skills; such as arrest and control; defensive tactics; driving; and firearms. The present manuscript addresses the critical importance of infusing academy training with the psychological skills essential for officers to meet the contemporary challenges of police work. The authors suggest that the skills (i.e., cognitive; emotional; social; and moral) discussed in this paper may improve officers’ wellness as well as promote relationships between police officers and community members. Specific methods of incorporating these skills in academy training are offered.
Suicide Rates, Social Capital, and Depressive Symptoms among Older Adults in Japan: An Ecological Study
Authors: Nakamura Tsuneo , Tsuji Taishi , Nagamine Yuiko , Ide Kazushige , Jeong Seungwon , Miyaguni Yasuhiro , Kondo Katsunori
Published: December 2019

Depression is considered the primary risk factor for older people’s suicide. When considering suicide measures, it is necessary to clarify the relationship between depressive symptoms, social capital, and suicide rates. Therefore, we aimed to clarify the relationship between community-level social capital, depressive symptoms, and suicide rates among older people in Japan. We analyzed the data gathered from 63,026 men and 72,268 women aged 65 years and older, totaling 135,294 subjects in 81 municipalities with a population of over 100,000 participants in the 2013 Sixth Long-Term Care Needs Survey and another survey conducted by Japan Gerontological Evaluation Study (JAGES) in 2013 including the same question items as the survey in Japan. Multiple regression analysis revealed that the male suicide standardized mortality ratio (SMR) was positively correlated with depressive symptoms (B = 2.318, p = 0.002), and received emotional support (B = −2.622, p = 0.014) had a negative correlation with the male suicide SMR. In older males particularly, the received emotional support in the community was independently associated with the suicide rate. Therefore, fostering social support in a community could act as a countermeasure to suicide among older males in Japan.
Association between Changes in Depressive State and Cognitive Function
Authors: Kim Jae Han , Kim Youngjoo , Kwon Junhyun , Park Eun-Cheol
Published: December 2019

Dementia is defined as a severe form of cognitive impairment. Research concerning the two-way relationship between depression and cognitive impairment has been conducted; however, there has been little analysis of cognitive function following changes in depressive status. This study describes the association between changes in depressive state and cognitive function in a Korean geriatric population sample. Using the Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging (KLoSA) database, Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores and Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CESD-10) indexes were used for measuring cognitive function and depression, respectively. The survey population was divided into four case categories by change in depressive status: normal to normal (Group A), normal to depressive (Group B), depressive to normal (Group C), and depressive to depressive (Group D). Analysis of variance, multiple regression analysis, and subgroup analysis were used for statistical examination. In the multiple regression analysis between MMSE values and depressive status change groups, with Group A as the reference, β in all other groups was negative, and its absolute value was large in the order of D, B, and C in both men (B: −0.717, C: −0.416, D: −1.539) and women (B: −0.629, C: −0.430, D: −1.143). There were also significant results in the subgroup analysis in terms of age, working status, participation in social activities, regular physical activities, and number of chronic medical conditions. In conclusion, both cases—those suffering from depression and those having suffered from it before—experience cognitive impairment. The degree of cognitive function being impaired is greater in the case of depression-onset than that of depression-remission. Age, stimulating activities, and chronic conditions are also strongly relevant to cognitive decline accompanied by changes in depressive state.
Culture, Work, and Subjective Well-Being: The Role of LMX and Resilience in Spanish and Chinese Cultures
Authors: González-Navarro Pilar , Talavera-Escribano Elena , Zurriaga-Lloréns Rosario , Llinares-Insa Lucía I.
Published: December 2019

Globalization and interdependencies among nations require a better understanding of the influence of culture on organizational processes. In order to succeed in global business, leaders have to respond to practices that may be different in diverse cultures. This study was conducted within the framework of the leader member exchange approach and from a positive perspective of organizations linking successful businesses and workers’ well-being. The aim of this study was to examine whether the quality of the relationship with the leader predicts engagement and life satisfaction, and whether resilience moderates this relationship in two different cultural contexts (Spanish and Chinese). The sample was composed of 277 workers (127 Chinese workers corresponding to a vertical-collectivistic culture and 150 Spanish workers representing a horizontal-individualistic culture). To test the hypotheses, a structural equations model (SEM) was conducted using the maximum likelihood (ML) estimation method. Results revealed that leader-member exchange (LMX) positively predicts engagement and life satisfaction and that the moderator role of resilience varies across cultures. Resilience moderated the relationship between LMX and engagement and life satisfaction only in the Spanish sample. In the Chinese sample, resilience only moderated the relation between LMX and life satisfaction. Finally, our study contributes to a better understanding of the relationship between leaders and subordinates operating in a global context.
Targeted Transdermal Delivery of Curcumin for Breast Cancer Prevention
Authors: Atlan Michele , Neman Josh
Published: December 2019

N.B. This manuscript is based on the research concept submitted to the “Global Challenge to Prevent Breast Cancer” idea showcase and competition, launched in 2018 by the California Breast Cancer Research Program (CBCRP), which was subsequently selected for publication. The hypothesis, methods, and discussion put forth here are thus proposed concept studies, which could eventually be elucidated in the future. Curcumin is an herbal supplement, shown in preclinical studies to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antitumoral properties that we believe can be harnessed for breast cancer prevention. However, due to its poor absorption when consumed orally, curcumin’s anticancer effects have not yet been exploited to their full therapeutic potential. Incorporating existing research that focuses on the optimization of curcumin’s bioavailability and the latest transdermal delivery technology, we propose, below, a hypothetical in vivo study to test whether a targeted daily dose of bioavailable curcumin has a cytotoxic effect on cancer cells, potentially reducing the incidence of breast cancer over time. Our ultimate objective is to adopt innovative methods to create curcumin-infused bio-textiles offering transdermal, targeted drug delivery, simply through contact with the skin. We would use this fabric to create disposable bra inserts for an effortless, daily breast cancer prevention regimen for healthy women. It would be essential that the cost of these inserts remain reasonable, but if successful, curcumin is readily available, affordable and non-toxic, and could thus be a preventive measure that would be beneficial for women from all socio-economic backgrounds.
Testing Demands and Resources as Determinants of Vitality among Different Employment Contract Groups. A Study in 30 European Countries
Authors: Hakanen Jari J. , Ropponen Annina , De Witte Hans , Schaufeli Wilmar B.
Published: December 2019

The aim of this study was to investigate the relative importance of four job demands and five job resources for employee vitality, i.e., work engagement and exhaustion, in three different employment groups: permanent, temporary and temporary agency workers. We employed data from the sixth European Working Conditions Survey (EWCS) collected in 2015 comprising 28,042 employees from 30 European countries. We used linear regression analyses and dominance analysis (DA). The results showed minor mean differences in work engagement and exhaustion and that temporary agency workers had the highest job insecurity and lowest job control. The associations between job resources and job demands, and work engagement and exhaustion of the groups, did not differ considerably. DA showed that in all three employment groups, job feedback made the strongest contribution to work engagement and workload to exhaustion. In addition, among the temporary agency workers, supervisor support contributed to work engagement and job control (negatively) to exhaustion more than in the other groups. This study suggests that the key determinants of vitality at work may be similar, regardless of contract, and that to have sustainably performing vital workers, organizations should focus on enabling job feedback and preventing high workload in all employment groups.
Trends and Age-Period-Cohort Effects of Fertility Rate: Analysis of 26,224 Married Women in Taiwan
Authors: Tzeng I-Shiang , Chen Kuo-Hu , Lee Yungling L. , Yang Wen-Shan
Published: December 2019

Taiwan and a few Asian societies have had among the lowest fertility rates in the world for the past decade. Understanding the reasons behind the low fertility and designing policies accordingly to improve fertility has been a priority of governments in the region. It what follows we examine the low fertility rate in Taiwan by studying the trend of actual fertility rate and desired fertility rate in Taiwan using an age-period-cohort (APC) model. Using the Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice (KAP) of contraception survey data between 1973 and 2004, we applied APC analyses on the actual fertility rate and desired fertility rate of married women. We found that youngest cohorts (the mid-cohort year 1983) had 10% higher actual fertility and 15% higher desired fertility compared to those who were born in 1959–1965, respectively. Additionally, we attributed current lowest-low fertility (at or below 1.3) to late marriages. There is a lag between the actual and desired fertility rates in KAP survey due to tempo effect. Furthermore, the trends of the cohort effects of both fertility rates in KAP surveys are reversing in Taiwan. Consequently, increase total fertility rate (TFR) should encourage marriage among the marriageable population and reward married and childbearing households.
Happiness and Cognitive Impairment Among Older Adults: Investigating the Mediational Roles of Disability, Depression, Social Contact Frequency, and Loneliness
Authors: Tan Jit Hui , Abdin Edimansyah , Shahwan Shazana , Zhang Yunjue , Sambasivam Rajeswari , Vaingankar Janhavi Ajit , Mahendran Rathi , Chua Hong Choon , Chong Siow Ann , Subramaniam Mythily
Published: December 2019

Background: Understanding the lower level of happiness among older adults with cognitive impairment has been a largely neglected issue. This study (1) reports on the level of happiness among older adults in Singapore and (2) examines the potential mediating roles of depression, disability, social contact frequency, and loneliness in the relationship between cognitive scores and happiness. Methods: Data for this study were extracted from the Well-being of the Singapore Elderly (WiSE) study: a cross-sectional; comprehensive single-phase survey conducted among Singapore citizens and permanent residents that were aged 60 years and above (n = 2565). The Geriatric Mental State examination (GMS) was administered to the participants. Questions pertaining to socio-demographic characteristics; happiness; loneliness; social contact; depression; and, disability were utilized in this study. Logistic regression analyses and mediation analyses were used to explore the correlates of happiness and potential mediating factors. Results: Overall, 96.2% of older adults in Singapore reported feeling either fairly happy or very happy. In the regression analysis, individuals of Malay descent, those who were married/cohabiting, or had higher education levels were more likely to report feeling happy. After controlling for socio-demographic factors, higher cognitive scores were associated with higher odds of reporting happiness. We found that the positive association between cognition and happiness was fully mediated by disability, depression, loneliness, and frequency of contact with friends. Conclusion: The majority of the older adult population reported feeling fairly or very happy. While cognitive impairment has shown limited reversibility in past studies, unhappiness among older adults with cognitive impairment might be potentially mitigated through interventions addressing accompanying issues of social isolation, disability, and depression
Developing a Health-Promotion Program Based on the Action Research Paradigm to Reduce Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors among Blue Collar Workers
Authors: Hwang Won Ju , Kim Jin Ah
Published: December 2019

This study developed and evaluated a health management program based on the participant-centered concept of action research to reduce cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors among blue collar workers. Data from structured questionnaires completed by 32 workers in a small-to-medium sized workplace from September 2015 to October 2016 as well as participants’ anthropometrical (weight and waist) and biological (blood pressure, glucose, total cholesterol, triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol) data were analyzed using paired t-test and Fisher’s exact test. To examine the longitudinal effect of the intervention, survival analysis and linear mixed model (LMM) were used. There was an improvement in participants’ self-regulation in maintaining health-promoting behaviors, body weight, blood pressure, and HDL cholesterol following the intervention. Furthermore, the effects of the health management program continued even after the program ended. These findings suggest that the health management program developed in this study could be effective in reducing CVD risk factors among workers in small-to-medium sized workplaces and should be applied to other small-to-medium sized workplaces to foster health-promoting behaviors.
Recent Advances in Nanoencapsulation Systems Using PLGA of Bioactive Phenolics for Protection against Chronic Diseases
Authors: Abdul Rahim Rohanizah , Jayusman Putri Ayu , Muhammad Norliza , Ahmad Fairus , Mokhtar Norfilza , Naina Mohamed Isa , Mohamed Norazlina , Shuid Ahmad Nazrun
Published: December 2019

Plant-derived polyphenolic compounds have gained widespread recognition as remarkable nutraceuticals for the prevention and treatment of various disorders, such as cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, diabetes, osteoporosis, and neoplastic diseases. Evidence from the epidemiological studies has suggested the association between long-term consumption of diets rich in polyphenols and protection against chronic diseases. Nevertheless, the applications of these phytochemicals are limited due to its low solubility, low bioavailability, instability, and degradability by in vivo and in vitro conditions. Therefore, in recent years, newer approaches have been attempted to solve the restrictions related to their delivery system. Nanoencapsulation of phenolic compounds with biopolymeric nanoparticles could be a promising strategy for protection and effective delivery of phenolics. Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) is one of the most successfully developed biodegradable polymers that has attracted considerable attention due to its attractive properties. In this review, our main goal is to cover the relevant recent studies that explore the pharmaceutical significance and therapeutic superiority of the advance delivery systems of phenolic compounds using PLGA-based nanoparticles. A summary of the recent studies implementing encapsulation techniques applied to polyphenolic compounds from plants confirmed that nanoencapsulation with PLGA nanoparticles is a promising approach to potentialize their therapeutic activity.
Predictors of Emergency Department Use among Individuals with Current or Previous Experience of Homelessness
Authors: Gabet Morgane , Grenier Guy , Cao Zhirong , Fleury Marie-Josée
Published: December 2019

This study assessed the contributions of predisposing, enabling, and needs factors in predicting emergency department (ED) use among 270 individuals with current or previous experience of homelessness. Participants were recruited from three different types of housing (shelter, temporary housing and permanent housing) in Montreal, Quebec (Canada). They were interviewed at baseline (T0), and again 12 months after recruitment (T1). Longitudinal data analyses were conducted on associations between a set of baseline predictors (T0) with the dependent variable (ED users vs. non-users) from T1. Predictors were identified according to the Gelberg–Andersen Behavioral Model. Findings revealed two needs factors associated with ED use: having a substance use disorder (SUD) and low perceived physical health. Two enabling factors, use of ambulatory specialized services and stigma, were also related to ED use. No predisposing factors were retained in the model, and ED use was not associated with type of housing. Improvements are needed in SUD and physical health management in order to reduce ED use, as well as interventions aimed at stigma prevention for this vulnerable population.
Characteristics of Desertification and Short-Term Effectiveness of Differing Treatments on Shifting Sand Dune Stabilization in an Alpine Rangeland
Authors: Feng Xiao , Qu Jianjun , Fan Qingbin , Tan Lihai , An Zhishan
Published: December 2019

Rangeland desertification is one of the most serious problems threatening the ecological environment and socio-economic development on the eastern Qinghai-Tibet Plateau in China. To combat desertification and reduce its adverse effects, some strategies have been undertaken to stabilize the mobile sand dunes and restore the desertified land. In this study, rangeland desertification with a gradient degree of none, light, medium, severe and extreme was assessed, and short-term effectiveness of different treatments on stabilizing the shifting sand dunes was evaluated by monitoring selected vegetation and soil properties. Results showed that vegetation became thinner and sparser, and soil environment deteriorated significantly under desertification, leading to a poor and low diversity ecosystem. Applying a checkerboard protection strategy in which herb species were planted and using a shrub vegetation planting method without checkerboard protection on mobile dunes for five years, vegetation growth state and soil properties were improved. Soil particles were finer, vegetation restoration was more rapid, and soil nutrient improvement was more apparent at the lower locations of the sand dunes under the checkerboard protection planted with herbs, which performed slightly better in improving soil properties than the shrub planting method alone. A longer time period would be required for vegetation and soils on the sand dunes to be restored to sustain more intensive land use. These findings provide more insight into dune stabilization, allowing effective management in the ecological restoration of desertified rangeland.
Astaxanthin Ameliorates Ischemic-Hypoxic-Induced Neurotrophin Receptor p75 Upregulation in the Endothelial Cells of Neonatal Mouse Brains
Authors: Kuo Min-Hsun , Lee Hung-Fu , Tu Yi-Fang , Lin Li-Hsuan , Cheng Ya-Yun , Lee Hsueh-Te
Published: December 2019

Ischemic stroke is a leading cause of human death in present times. Two phases of pathological impact occur during an ischemic stroke, namely, ischemia and reperfusion. Both periods include individual characteristic effects on cell injury and apoptosis. Moreover, these conditions can cause severe cell defects and harm the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Also, the BBB components are the major targets in ischemia-reperfusion injury. The BBB owes its enhanced protective roles to capillary endothelial cells, which maintain BBB permeability. One of the nerve growth factor (NGF) receptors initiating cell signaling, once activated, is the p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR). This receptor is involved in both the survival and apoptosis of neurons. Although many studies have attempted to explain the role of p75NTR in neurons, the mechanisms in endothelial cells remain unclear. Endothelial cells are the first cells to encounter p75NTR stimuli. In this study, we found the upregulated p75NTR expression and reductive expression of tight junction proteins after in vivo and in vitro ischemia-reperfusion injury. Moreover, astaxanthin (AXT), an antioxidant drug, was utilized and was found to reduce p75NTR expression and the number of apoptotic cells. This study verified that p75NTR plays a prominent role in endothelial cell death and provides a novel downstream target for AXT.
Modification of Collagen Derivatives with Water-Soluble Polymers for the Development of Cross-Linked Hydrogels for Controlled Release
Authors: Tzoumani Ioanna , Lainioti Georgia Ch. , Aletras Alexios J. , Zainescu Gabriel , Stefan Simina , Meghea Aurelia , Kallitsis Joannis K.
Published: December 2019

Novel cross-linked hydrogels were synthesized as potential materials for the development of smart biofertilizers. For this purpose, hydrogels were prepared using collagen hydrolysate recovered from tannery waste. The water-soluble polymer poly(sodium 4-styrenesulfonate-co-glycidyl methacrylate) (P(SSNa-co-GMAx)) was among others used for the cross-linking reaction that combined hydrophilic nature with epoxide groups. The synthetic procedure was thoroughly investigated in order to ensure high percentage of epoxide groups in combination with water-soluble behavior. The copolymer did not show cytotoxicity against normal lung, skin fibroblasts, or nasal polyps fibroblasts. Through the present work, we also present the ability to control the properties of cross-linked hydrogels by altering copolymer’s composition and cross-linking parameters (curing temperature and time). Hydrogels were then studied in terms of water-uptake capacity for a period up to six days. The techniques Proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (1H NMR), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), Size Exclusion Chromatography (SEC), and Attenuated Total Reflection Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) were applied for the characterization of the synthesized copolymers and the cross-linked hydrogels. Three samples of biofertilizers based on collagen hydrolysate functionalized with P(SSNa-co-GMAx) and starch and having nutrients encapsulated (N, P, K) were prepared and characterized by physical–chemical analysis and Energy Dispersive X-ray analysis-Scanning Electron Microscope (EDAX-SEM) in terms of microstructure. Preliminary tests for application as fertilizers were performed including the release degree of oxidable organic compounds.
Structural, Compositional, and Mechanical Characterization of WxCryFe1−x−y Layers Relevant to Nuclear Fusion, Obtained with TVA Technology
Authors: Lungu Mihail , Porosnicu Ioana , Dinca Paul , Velea Alin , Baiasu Flaviu , Butoi Bogdan , Pompilian Oana Gloria , Staicu Cornel , Anca Constantina Parau , Porosnicu Corneliu , Lungu Cristian , Tiseanu Ion
Published: December 2019

Reduced activation ferritic and martensitic steel like EUROFER (9Cr-1W) are considered as potential structural materials for the first wall of the future next-generation DEMOnstration Power Station (DEMO) fusion reactor and as a reference material for the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) test blanket module. The primary motivation of this work is to study the re-deposition of the main constituent materials of EUROFER, namely tungsten (W), iron (Fe), and chromium (Cr), in a DEMO type reactor by producing and analyzing complex WxCryFe1−x−y layers. The composite layers were produced in laboratory using the thermionic vacuum arc (TVA) method, and the morphology, crystalline structure, elemental composition, and mechanical properties were studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), micro-X-ray fluorescence (micro-XRF), and glow discharge optical emission spectrometry (GDOES), as well as nanoindentation and tribology measurements. The results show that the layer morphology is textured and is highly dependent on sample positioning during the deposition process. The formation of polycrystalline WxCryFe1−x−y was observed for all samples with the exception of the sample positioned closer to Fe anode during deposition. The crystalline grain size dimension varied between 10 and 20 nm. The composition and thickness of the layers were strongly influenced by the in-situ coating position, and the elemental depth profiles show a non-uniform distribution of Fe and Cr in the layers. The highest hardness was measured for the sample positioned near the Cr anode, 6.84 GPa, and the lowest was 4.84 GPa, measured for the sample positioned near the W anode. The tribology measurements showed an abrasive sliding wear behavior for most of the samples with a reduction of the friction coefficient with the increase of the normal load.
A New Cutting Device Design to Study the Orthogonal Cutting of CFRP Laminates at Different Cutting Speeds
Authors: Criado Víctor , Feito Norberto , Cantero Guisández José Luis , Díaz-Álvarez José
Published: December 2019

Carbon Fiber-reinforced plastics (CFRPs) are widely used in the aerospace industry due to their highly mechanical properties and low density. Most of these materials are used in high-risk structures, where the damage caused by machining must be controlled and minimized. The optimization of these processes is still a challenge in the industry. In this work, a special cutting device, which allows for orthogonal cutting tests, with a linear displacement at a wide range of constant cutting speeds, has been developed by the authors. This paper describes the developed cutting device and its application to analyze the influence of tool geometry and cutting parameters on the material damage caused by the orthogonal cutting of a thick multidirectional CFRP laminate. The results show that a more robust geometry (higher cutting edge radius and lower rake angle) and higher feed cause an increase in the thrust force of a cutting tool, causing burrs and delamination damage. By reducing the cutting speed, the components with a higher machining force were also observed to have less surface integrity control.
Novel Semi-Analytical Solutions for the Transient Behaviors of Functionally Graded Material Plates in the Thermal Environment
Authors: Cao Zeng , Liang Xu , Deng Yu , Zha Xing , Zhu Ronghua , Leng Jianxing
Published: December 2019

The primary objective of this article is to present a semi-analytical algorithm for the transient behaviors of Functionally Graded Materials plates (FGM plates) considering both the influence of in-plane displacements and the influence of temperature changes. Based on the classical plate theory considering the effect of in-plane displacements, the equilibrium equations of the motion system are derived by Hamilton’s principle. Here, we propose a novel, accurate, and efficient semi-analytical method that incorporates the Fourier series expansion, the Laplace transforms, and its numerical inversion and the Differential Quadrature Method (DQM) to simulate the transient behaviors. This paper validates the proposed method by comparisons with semi-analytical natural frequency results and those from the literature. Expressly, the results of dynamic response also agree well with those generated by the Navier’s method and Finite Element Method (FEM). A convergence study that utilizes the different numbers of sampling points shows that the process can converge quickly, and a few sampling points can achieve high accuracy. The effects of various boundary conditions at the ends, material graded index, and temperature change are further investigated. From the detailed parametric study, it is seen that the peak displacement increases as the edge degrees of freedom, the gradient index of the material, and temperature change increase.