bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
النمذجة الرياضية باستخدام المعادلات الضبابية مع التطبيق
Authors: ذنون أ.د. باسل يونس , جقماقجي إسراء محمد بشير
Published: October 2018

يتناول هذه البحث الحلول الضبابية لمعادلات تفاضلية وفروقية خطية من المرتبة الأولى ذات المعاملات الثابتة بوجود شروط ابتدائية ضبابية. يُستهل البحث بالمعادلة التفاضلية وتُستعرض طريقة حلها عندما تكون دالة انتمائها مثلثية وشبه منحرف ودالة كاوس. ثم يتناول المعادلة الفروقية الخطية وتُعرض طريقة حلهاعندما تكون دالة انتمائها دوال الانتماء الثلاثة آنفة الذكر. وتطبق النتائج النظرية على مسألة نمذجة عدد سكان العراق. ويتضح من خلال التطبيق العملي أن نماذج المعادلات التفاضلية والفروقية ذات القيم الإبتدائية الضبابية متفوقة في مجال التنبؤ عن مثيلاتها النماذج غير الضبابية.
Un modelo de Planificación Financiera Sostenible, a través de un proceso de optimización
Authors: Martín Valmayor Miguel Ángel , Romero Cuadrado María , Romero Luis
Published: October 2018

El propósito del artículo es proponer un modelo sostenible de planificación financiera, a partir del cumplimiento de una serie de objetivos corporativos. El planteamiento en este sentido, es el de la optimización simultánea de estos objetivos a partir de las técnicas de optimización multicriterio
The Use of Simulation to Increase Critical Thinking of Perinatal Nurses in the Care of Preeclampsia Patients
Authors: Olubummo Catherine
Published: October 2018

Objective:

To increase critical thinking in perinatal nurses caring for patients with preeclampsia, with the support of key nursing, education, and medical leadership, an evidence-based practice.

Design: Quantitative, Descriptive study

Setting: Metropolitan area of New York

Participants:

A total of six nurses were involved at a time: two from antepartum, two from labor and delivery, and two from postpartum

Methods:

This included 45 minutes for completion of the CCTST, a one-hour lecture supplemented with PowerPoint slides and two studies, two hours engaged in the simulation, 30 minutes for debriefing, and 15 minutes for a post-CCTST.

Results:

The test results indicated that there was a significant difference between pre-test and post-test scores. A paired-samples t-test was used to examine the difference between pre-test and the post-test CCTST analysis scores, as reflected in Table 4. The analysis score increased from pre-test to post-test by 0.75 points; the difference between the scores was statistically significant (t(15) = -3.50, p < .01).Simulation increased critical-thinking skills in perinatal nurses in all domains as measured by the CCTST overall scores and the scores in the areas of analysis, evaluation, inference, inductive reasoning, and deductive reasoning.

Conclusion:

The simulation was a successful EBP change project that increased nurses' critical thinking and delivered and evaluated evidenced-based care to improve patient outcomes. Simulation increased critical-thinking skills in perinatal nurses.

Keywords:

Critical thinking, Perinatal nurses, Key nursing, Education and medical leadership, An evidenced based practice.
Reducing the Use of Indwelling Urinary Catheters During Cesarean Deliveries
Authors: Borland Michelle
Published: October 2018

One concern for medical professionals and women experiencing cesarean deliveries is the use of indwelling urinary catheters, which is associated with a delay in first void time, slower ambulation time, increased discomfort, longer hospital stays, and an increased risk for urinary tract infections. The purpose of this project was to determine if a practice change regarding the use of urinary catheters among pregnant women decreases the number of women receiving a catheter prior to having a cesarean section in a small community hospital. The knowledge to action and Rosswurm and Larabee’s models were used to guide this project, which was comprised of 2 phases. Phase 1 included a team of 10 experts that created the needs assessment that would establish hemodynamic stability using a 4-point scale. The items for inclusion in the needs assessment included primary cesarean, repeat cesarean, no urinary tract infection present, no fetal distress present, no systemic disorders present, no hypertensive disorders present, and no contraindications for anesthesia. Phase 2 was the implementation and evaluation of the needs assessment and new practice guidelines. Statistical analysis was performed using the Mann Whitney U test. There was 98% compliance (p < 0.001.) with the use of the assessment in women undergoing a cesarean delivery and a 64% reduction in the length of time an indwelling catheter was left in place. However, there was no significant change in the number of women receiving a catheter prior to cesarean delivery after a needs assessment was performed (p = 0.805). This project has potential implications that would support social change by reducing the use of indwelling catheters among hemodynamically stable women undergoing cesarean deliveries.

Key words: Indwelling catheter, Urinary catheter, Foley, Cesarean, C-section
Emigration of Philippine Nurses: Ethical Concerns Home and Abroad
Authors: Williams Judith A.
Published: October 2018

After 2010, the greatest increase will occur between the sixty-five (65) year and older age group from 13.2 percent to 20 percent by 2030 – from 39.4 million elderly to 69.4 million. Therefore, the question one would ask oneself is, “Should the U.S. continue to support the emigration of Philippine nurses to the U.S. when a violation of ethical principles occur?”. These ethical principles include beneficence, nonmaleficence, autonomy, and justice, which will influence the fair-play practice of emigration, economic gain with emigration, necessity versus choice, the safety of the nurses and patients, and social justice and responsibility. For nurses in developing countries, it is essential that nurses develop a utilitarian collective voice to demand health care service changes from their government to meet the health care needs of the citizens and improve the infrastructure.

Keywords: Filipino, Nurses, Ethical principles, Push/pull factors, Emigration, Economic
Essentials of Service-Learning for the Community Partner Nurse Leader
Authors: Havrilla Emily
Published: October 2018

Background: Service-learning, congruent with the Kolb Model of Experiential Learning, is an educational strategy that includes instruction, service, and reflection. Through this process students formulate connections between knowledge and service. Service learning courses are developed and implemented through a reciprocal partnership between an academic institution and a community organization. Discussion: Nursing leaders often serve as the community partner contact for a service learning course. The nurse leader has an integral role to fulfill in course development, implementation, and evaluation. The nurse leader needs to be aware of key responsibilities and benefits of the service-learning partnership. Conclusion: Partnership with an academic institution in the implementation of a service-learning course promotes relationships within the community. Through the reciprocal nature of service-learning, agency outcomes may be positively influenced. Keywords: Service-Learning, Community Partnership, Nurse Leader, Nursing, Nursing Education
Clinical Simulation for Practicing Labor and Delivery Nurses: Advancing Competency through Simulated Nursing Practice
Authors: Parsons Lynn C. , Ferguson Teresa D. , Howell Teresa L.
Published: October 2018

Nurses new to Maternal-Child units in hospital organizations need reality based in-service education in new employee orientation. Experienced nurses must have current, cutting edge staff development sessions that replicate practice scenarios to facilitate currency in practice. Annual clinical skills reaffirmation and new employee orientation commonly include clinical simulation activities that enhance critical thinking, assess clinical competency and reduce the potential for errors in practice. Practice repetition in the Education Department lab setting is a protected area to learn and refine clinical care skills and procedures. Case scenarios through use of clinical simulation are posed to provide current practice initiatives that enhance the nurses’ ability to provide safe, competent patient care. Keywords: Clinical Simulation, Nurse Educators, Nurse Practice, Staff Development
The Three C’s of Effective Online Instruction
Authors: Justice Keri E.
Published: October 2018

Although much focus is given to the technological and instructional delivery aspects of online learning, there is also much research available that indicates that online learners perceive instructional effectiveness in the online classroom based on cognitive and social aspects more so than the mechanisms for delivery of content. The perception that online learners do not crave a socially intimate and cognitively meaningful learning experience is false, and often these aspects contribute the greatest to the student’s overall satisfaction with the online learning experience. Behaviors and actions that can be modeled and implemented quite easily in any online course that will significantly increase the effectiveness of online instruction are those that develop and promote communication, connectivity, and compassion. In fact, the Institute for Higher Education Policy’s 2000 report of benchmarks for successful online education emphasizes interaction and engagement in the online learning environment, beyond their focus on instructional delivery mechanisms and materials, course curriculum development, and content of the course itself. By implementing behaviors/actions that model connectivity, compassion, and communication, online learners experience a perceived increase in the quality of instruction they receive and an overall increase in program satisfaction, while faculty and the organization experience an increase in satisfaction due to improved faculty-student relationships, assurance of quality education for the community served, and intrinsic motivation for the provision of more meaningful learning. Key words: Online learning, Online instruction, Effective instruction, Distance learning, Nursing faculty, Communication, Connectivity, Compassion, Instructional delivery
Development of a Critical Skills Assessment for Military Medical Field Settings
Authors: Smart Denise A. , Odom-Maryon Tamara , James Lois , Rowan Stephanie , Roby Amanda
Published: October 2018

Objectives: To develop a method of measuring medical decision making in a military field setting that would allow an evaluation of the impact of sleep deprivation, fatigue, and other stressors on critical skills deterioration.

Methods: Thirty-seven students who were enrolled in a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program participated in this
study. Over the course of three days, student participants were sent five questions in the morning and five questions in the evening. On the fourth day, students were sent 10
questions in the morning and 10 questions in the evening. DNP students received medication calculation questions and BSN students received Basic Life Support (BLS) questions. All questions were drawn from standardized test bank sources,
were multiple choice, and were thoroughly reviewed by the research team for relevant content prior to study testing.

Results: Twenty-five (50%) and twenty-eight (56%) of the 50 BLS and medication calculation questions met the selection criteria of average response times between 10 and 50 seconds and accuracy of at least 80%. From these, 16 questions were
selected from both sets with smaller standard deviations, minimum response times of at least 5 seconds and maximum response times less than 90 seconds.

Implications: In order to test the impact of sleep deprivation, fatigue, or any other stressors on critical decision making skills of military medical personnel during field training operations it was necessary to develop a test battery of questions that are
sensitive enough to detect variation due to human factors. Our study accomplished this objective, and the resulting medication calculation and BLS questions can be used to
readily assess deterioration in critical decision making skills within a field setting.

Key Words: Critical Skills, Disaster Training, Sleep and Fatigue
Leadership styles of the Nursing Directors at the Ministry of Health, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alshammari Farhan
Published: October 2018

Background: The need to define the leadership styles of the nursing directors is imperative as it gives the organization an insight of what to achieve. This study determines the leadership styles of the nursing directors in the Ministry of Health, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This research aims to assess the association of the age, gender and year of employment of the nursing directors to their identified leadership styles.

Methods: This research employed the correlational approach in probing the leadership styles of the nursing directors in the Ministry of Health, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. There were 22 nursing directors (100 % response rate) participated in the study. The researcher used the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire, Form 6-S (MLQ- 6S) by Bass and Avolio.

Results: The data suggests that nursing directors employed transactional leadership style in leading their subordinates. It is found out that age has a significant difference in the transactional leadership styles (.037>.05). However, gender and year of employment revealed no significant difference to transformational leadership (.792), transactional leadership (.857), and the laissez-faire (.346).

Conclusion: Demystifying the leadership styles of the nursing directors and its variables can contribute to the understanding of the leadership needs to carry out towards organizational outcomes. The study implies a clear demarcation between an expectation of the leaders and the employees of how leadership and work shall be carried out in the organization.

Keywords: Laissez-Faire, Leadership Styles, Transformational, Transactional, Nursing Directors
Oral Contraceptives Induced Gingival Overgrowth – A Clinical Case Report
Authors: Mahajan Anushi , Sood Ritesh
Published: October 2018

Aim: The purpose of this article is to report a case of drug induced gingival enlargement due to oral contraceptives, managed by nonsurgical periodontal therapy. Background: Drug-induced gingival overgrowth remains the most widespread unwanted effect of systemic medication on the periodontal tissues. Hormones are specific regulatory molecules that modulate a host of body functions. Oral contraceptives that contain estrogen and/or progesterone are associated with gingival enlargement. Report: A 32-year-old female presented with a complaint of swelling of the gingiva with spontaneous bleeding in the mandibular anterior region for a period of two years. The health history documented the use of contraceptives for two years, and a clinical examination revealed the existence of poor oral hygiene and enlarged painful gingival tissues that bled when touched. Summary: Females on oral contraceptives can be considered as a “risk group” for periodontal diseases. Not all females on oral contraceptives respond in similar way. Plaque control is the most important procedure in periodontal therapy. Although the initial picture presented the possibility of surgical intervention, the clinical problems were resolved with non-surgical treatment. Another factor contributing to response to therapy is patient compliance. The patient followed home care instructions well and was effective in personal oral hygiene measures. Keywords: Gingival enlargement, Sex hormones, Oral contraceptives.
A Feeding Appliance for an Infant with Cleft Palate
Authors: Zekonis Gediminas , Zukauskaite Egle , Masiliunaite Vilte , Dzingute Agne
Published: October 2018

Cleft palate and cleft lip are the most common congenital deformities involving the orofacial region. One of the most important problems with this deformation is difficulties with feeding due to lack of sufficient negative intraoral pressure which prevents regurgitation of food into the nasal cavity. Cleft lip and cleft palate can be surgically treated but repair of the palate is usually delayed until 6 months to 2 years of age. Early repair of the palate may have a negative effect on the growth and development of maxilla due to the resulting scar tissue. This article presents the Prosthodontic management of an infant with a cleft palate through fabricating a feeding plate (palatal obturator). Keywords: Cleft palate, Feeding plate, Palatal obturator
Analisis Efektivitas Penerimaan Pajak Bumi Dan Bangunan (PBB) di Kecamatan Tolangohula Kabupaten Gorontalo
Authors: Yusuf Barmin
Published: October 2018

Land and Building Tax is a potential source of revenue for the region as one of the direct taxes. Land and Building Tax is a central tax because the object is in the area, then the region gets a bigger share. In Gorontalo Regency, mainly Tolagohula Sub-district, as in other parts of Indonesia, the land and property tax (PBB) is one source of local revenue. The management of the land and building tax (PBB) in Tolangohula sub-district is expected to lead to the welfare of the people in Gorontalo Regency.The purpose of this study is to determine how the effectiveness of tax revenue Earth and Building (PBB) in District Tolangohula Gorontalo District. Using the Ratio of the effectiveness of Land and Building Tax revenues (PBB) shows the ability of local governments in mobilizing Land and Building Tax (PBB) in accordance with the targeted. The ability to obtain Land and Building Tax (PBB) is categorized effective if this ratio reaches at least 1 or 100%. Overall, the acceptance effectiveness of Land and Building Tax (PBB) in District Tolangohula Regency Gorontalo during the period of 2012 to 2014 is in the effectiveness category.
Psichiatria e potere nel fascismo italiano
Authors: De Bernardi Alberto
Published: October 2018

Il controllo sociale capillare e pervasivo messo in atto dal fascismo, rappresentò un salto di qualità nei processi di normalizzazione degli individui, rispetto a ogni regime politico ottocentesco. L'articolo discute come in questa nuova ottica cambiarono le finalità che il regime assegnò al manicomio e alla psichiatria, nel momento furono integrati pienamente nella macchina del controllo sociale totalitario, la quale si servì di entrambi per squalificare la legittimità di ogni opposizione politica, come parte della guerra totale per la conquista della società attuata dal regime. In questo modo, l'opposizione politica divenne parte integrante della lotta contro la degenerazione della razza, che negli anni Trenta costituì il maggior terreno di incontro tra psichiatria, criminologia e eugenetica, facendo delle forme di biopolitica del fascismo un'altra componente integrante del controllo sociale attuato dal regime.
I giovani e la storia: un'indagine tra gli studenti delle scuole superiori del Veneto
Authors: Crivellari Cinzia , Bravin Roberta , Baldo Massimo
Published: October 2018

La ricerca affronta i risultati di un'indagine condotta negli anni 2013-2016 tra un campione di circa mille studenti delle scuole superiori del Veneto sul rapporto tra le giovani generazioni e la storia. Dai questionari somministrati emerge un panorama variegato e a volte contradditorio circa lo studio della disciplina scolastica, la curiosità per il passato e la sua utilità nella vita.
Moving Emotions: Affect, the Archive and the Moving Image
Authors: Albano Caterina
Published: October 2018

This article considers the significance of the moving image as an archival record and its implications for the ways in which memory interacts with history. As a defining technology of recording and documenting, film is entangled with history in its making: however, what kinds of narrative ensues from images whose contextual references are opaque to us? What can we garner from footage whose indexical connections have been lost? By focusing on the artistic practice of filmmakers Yervant Gianikian and Angela Ricci Lucchi, I suggest a reading of early-twentieth-century archival film footage, including found footage and home movies, in terms of affect. Gianikian and Ricci Lucchi's approach focuses on the procedural features of the frame and an excavation of the features that can be drawn from its defining connotations. Through an excavation of the most minute details within the frame, they point out the kind of ‘presence’ that film projects back to us as gesture, expression, and movement and abstract from them forgotten memories of everyday encounters and the affective forms that mundane actions took. In particular, I shall focus on works by Gianikian and Ricci Lucchi's that deal with encounters with ‘the other’ and the visual practices of representation that inform them. The legibility that Gianikian and Ricci Lucchi's approach brings to a reading of archival film footage is indicative for broader methodological considerations of the ways in which the moving image encodes affect and emotion. This is relevant for an understanding of what Lauren Berlant refers to as the ‘realm of the social’ by uncovering the structures of perception and representation of the past and the significance that they might take in the present.
A Simplified Approach to Identify Sectional Deformation Modes of Thin-Walled Beams with Prismatic Cross-Sections
Authors: Zhang Lei , Zhu Weidong , Ji Aimin , Peng Liping
Published: October 2018

In this paper, a simplified approach to identify sectional deformation modes of prismatic cross-sections is presented and utilized in the establishment of a higher-order beam model for the dynamic analyses of thin-walled structures. The model considers the displacement field through a linear superposition of a set of basis functions whose amplitudes vary along the beam axis. These basis functions, which describe basis deformation modes, are approximated from nodal displacements on the discretized cross-section midline, with interpolation polynomials. Their amplitudes acting in the object vibration shapes are extracted through a modal analysis. A procedure similar to combining like terms is then implemented to superpose basis deformation modes, with equal or opposite amplitude, to produce primary deformation modes. The final set of the sectional deformation modes are assembled with primary deformation modes, excluding the ones constituting conventional modes. The derived sectional deformation modes, hierarchically organized and physically meaningful, are used to update the basis functions in the higher-order beam model. Numerical examples have also been presented and the comparison with ANSYS shell model showed its accuracy, efficiency, and applicability in reproducing three-dimensional behaviors of thin-walled structures.
Biodegradation of High Concentrations of Aliphatic Hydrocarbons in Soil from a Petroleum Refinery: Implications for Applicability of New Actinobacterial Strains
Authors: Trögl Josef , Esuola Catherine Oluwakemi , Kříženecká Sylvie , Kuráň Pavel , Seidlová Lenka , Veronesi-Dáňová Petra , Popelka Jan , Babalola Olubukola Oluranti , Hrabák Pavel , Czinnerová Marie , Kakosová Eva , Ševců Alena , Tischler Dirk
Published: October 2018

At present, there is great demand for new resistant and metabolically active strains of biodegrading bacteria capable of degrading high concentrations of petroleum pollutants. In this study, we undertook a series of pot-based biodegradation experiments on soil from a petroleum refinery lagoon heavily polluted with aliphatic hydrocarbons (81.6 ± 2.5 g·kg−1 dry weight) and metals. Periodical bioaugmentation with either a mixture of isolated degraders identified as Bacillus sp. and Ochrobactrum sp. or biostimulation with nutrient medium, singly or in combination, did not produce any significant decrease in hydrocarbons, even after 455 days. Inoculation with Gordonia rubripertincta CWB2 and Rhodococcus erythropolis S43 in iron-limited media, however, resulted in a significant decrease in hydrocarbons 45 days after bioaugmentation. These actinobacterial strains, therefore, show significant potential for bioremediation of such highly polluted soils.
Experimental Study on the Effect of Hydrogen Sulfide on High-Temperature Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells by Using Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy
Authors: Kang Ren-Jun , Chen Yong-Song
Published: October 2018

When the fuel supplied to a high-temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cell (HT-PEMFC) is produced by hydrocarbon formation, hydrogen sulfide (H2S) may appear, resulting in decreased cell performance and durability. To study the effects of H2S on the performance and durability of the HT-PEMFC, a series of experiments was conducted. In the first step, the effects of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and platinum loading on cell performance were investigated and discussed under pure hydrogen operation conditions. Optimal PVDF and platinum compositions in the catalyst layer are suggested. Then, the effect of H2S on membrane electrode assembly (MEA) performance with various platinum loadings was investigated by supplying hydrogen containing 5.2 ppm of H2S to the anode of the MEA. An electrochemical impedance spectroscope was employed to measure the impedance of the MEAs under various operating conditions. Finally, degradation of the MEA when supplied with hydrogen containing 5.2 ppm of H2S was analyzed and discussed. The results suggest that the performance of an MEA with 0.7 mg Pt cm−2 and 10% PVDF can be recovered by supplying pure hydrogen. The rate of voltage decrease is around 300 μV h−1 in the presence of H2S.
Evaluation of Energy Distribution Using Network Data Envelopment Analysis and Kohonen Self Organizing Maps
Authors: Ganhadeiro Thiago Gomes Leal , Christo Eliane da Silva , Meza Lidia Angulo , Costa Kelly Alonso , Souza Danilo Pinto Moreira de
Published: October 2018

This article presents an alternative way of evaluating the efficiency of the electric distribution companies in Brazil. This assessment is currently performed and designed by the National Electric Energy Agency (ANEEL), a Brazilian regulatory agency, to regulate energy prices. This involves calculating the X-factor, which represents the efficiency evolution in the price-cap regulation model. The proposed model aims to use a network Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) model with the network dimension as an intermediate variable and to use Kohonen Self-Organizing Maps (SOM) to correct the difficulties presented by environmental variables. In order to find which environmental variables influence the efficiency, factor analysis was used to reduce the dimensionality of the model. The analysis still uses multiple regression with the previous efficiency as the dependent variable and the four factors extracted from factor analysis as independent variables. The SOM generated four clusters based on the environment and the efficiency for each distributor in each group. This allows for a better evaluation of the correction in the X-factor, since it can be conducted inside each cluster with a maintained margin for comparison. It is expected that the use of this model will reduce the margin of questioning by distributors about the evaluation.
Analysis of the Icing Accretion Performance of Conductors and Its Normalized Characterization Method of Icing Degree for Various Ice Types in Natural Environments
Authors: Fan Caijin , Jiang Xingliang
Published: October 2018

Icing degree in the severe icing regions for years is an important factor considered in the anti-icing design of transmission lines. However, there is currently no normalized characterization method for the icing degree of transmission lines, which can be used to record the severity of icing at icing areas over the years and guide the design of transmission lines. This study analyzes collision efficiency of water droplets with various diameters of conductors and investigates the ice accretion law of transmission lines with various diameters under four natural ice types. Therefore, the normalized method of standard ice thickness instead of various ice morphologies is creatively used to characterize icing degree of transmission lines and a lot of field tests which have been done at six natural ice observation stations have verified the effective of the method. The results have shown that: The diameters of conductor and the droplet significantly affect collision efficiency; the relation of standard ice thickness with diameter of conductors for four typical ice types complied with the law of power function. The results can provide important references for the design and external insulation selection of transmission lines in ice region.
The Multiple and Versatile Roles of Aureobasidium pullulans in the Vitivinicultural Sector
Authors: Bozoudi Despina , Tsaltas Dimitrios
Published: October 2018

The saprophytic yeast-like fungus Aureobasidium pullulans has been well documented for over 60 years in the microbiological literature. It is ubiquitous in distribution, being found in a variety of environments (plant surfaces, soil, water, rock surfaces and manmade surfaces), and with a worldwide distribution from cold to warm climates and wet/humid regions to arid ones. Isolates and strains of A. pullulans produce a wide range of natural products well documented in the international literature and which have been regarded as safe for biotechnological and environmental applications. Showing antagonistic activity against plant pathogens (especially post-harvest pathogens) is one of the major applications currently in agriculture of the fungus, with nutrient and space competition, production of volatile organic compounds, and production of hydrolytic enzymes and antimicrobial compounds (antibacterial and antifungal). The fungus also shows a positive role on mycotoxin biocontrol through various modes, with the most striking being that of binding and/or absorption. A. pullulans strains have been reported to produce very useful industrial enzymes, such as β-glucosidase, amylases, cellulases, lipases, proteases, xylanases and mannanases. Pullulan (poly-α-1,6-maltotriose biopolymer) is an A. pullulans trademark product with significant properties and biotechnological applications in the food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. Poly (β-l-malic acid), or PMA, which is a natural biopolyester, and liamocins, a group of produced heavy oils and siderophores, are among other valuable compounds detected that are of possible biotechnological use. The fungus also shows a potential single-cell protein source capacity with high levels of nucleic acid components and essential amino acids, but this remains to be further explored. Last but not least, the fungus has shown very good biocontrol against aerial plant pathogens. All these properties are of major interest in the vitivinicultural sector and are thoroughly reviewed under this prism, concluding on the importance that A. pullulans may have if used at both vineyard and winery levels. This extensive array of properties provides excellent tools for the viticulturist/farmer as well as for the oenologist to combat problems in the field and create a high-quality wine.
Evaluation of Hydrogels Based on Oxidized Hyaluronic Acid for Bioprinting
Authors: Weis Matthias , Shan Junwen , Kuhlmann Matthias , Jungst Tomasz , Tessmar Jörg , Groll Jürgen
Published: October 2018

In this study, we evaluate hydrogels based on oxidized hyaluronic acid, cross-linked with adipic acid dihydrazide, for their suitability as bioinks for 3D bioprinting. Aldehyde containing hyaluronic acid (AHA) is synthesized and cross-linked via Schiff Base chemistry with bifunctional adipic acid dihydrazide (ADH) to form a mechanically stable hydrogel with good printability. Mechanical and rheological properties of the printed and casted hydrogels are tunable depending on the concentrations of AHA and ADH cross-linkers.
Whole-Body 12C Irradiation Transiently Decreases Mouse Hippocampal Dentate Gyrus Proliferation and Immature Neuron Number, but Does Not Change New Neuron Survival Rate
Authors: Zanni Giulia , Deutsch Hannah , Rivera Phillip , Shih Hung-Ying , LeBlanc Junie , Amaral Wellington , Lucero Melanie , Redfield Rachel , DeSalle Matthew , Chen Benjamin , Whoolery Cody , Reynolds Ryan , Yun Sanghee , Eisch Amelia
Published: October 2018

High-charge and -energy (HZE) particles comprise space radiation and they pose a challenge to astronauts on deep space missions. While exposure to most HZE particles decreases neurogenesis in the hippocampus—a brain structure important in memory—prior work suggests that 12C does not. However, much about 12C’s influence on neurogenesis remains unknown, including the time course of its impact on neurogenesis. To address this knowledge gap, male mice (9–11 weeks of age) were exposed to whole-body 12C irradiation 100 cGy (IRR; 1000 MeV/n; 8 kEV/µm) or Sham treatment. To birthdate dividing cells, mice received BrdU i.p. 22 h post-irradiation and brains were harvested 2 h (Short-Term) or three months (Long-Term) later for stereological analysis indices of dentate gyrus neurogenesis. For the Short-Term time point, IRR mice had fewer Ki67, BrdU, and doublecortin (DCX) immunoreactive (+) cells versus Sham mice, indicating decreased proliferation (Ki67, BrdU) and immature neurons (DCX). For the Long-Term time point, IRR and Sham mice had similar Ki67+ and DCX+ cell numbers, suggesting restoration of proliferation and immature neurons 3 months post-12C irradiation. IRR mice had fewer surviving BrdU+ cells versus Sham mice, suggesting decreased cell survival, but there was no difference in BrdU+ cell survival rate when compared within treatment and across time point. These data underscore the ability of neurogenesis in the mouse brain to recover from the detrimental effect of 12C exposure.
Controversial Impact of Sirtuins in Chronic Non-Transmissible Diseases and Rehabilitation Medicine
Authors: Mongelli Alessia , Gaetano Carlo
Published: October 2018

A large body of evidence reports about the positive effects of physical activity in pathophysiological conditions associated with aging. Physical exercise, alone or in combination with other medical therapies, unquestionably causes reduction of symptoms in chronic non-transmissible diseases often leading to significant amelioration or complete healing. The molecular basis of this exciting outcome—however, remain largely obscure. Epigenetics, exploring at the interface between environmental signals and the remodeling of chromatin structure, promises to shed light on this intriguing matter possibly contributing to the identification of novel therapeutic targets. In this review, we shall focalize on the role of sirtuins (Sirts) a class III histone deacetylases (HDACs), which function has been frequently associated, often with a controversial role, to the pathogenesis of aging-associated pathophysiological conditions, including cancer, cardiovascular, muscular, neurodegenerative, bones and respiratory diseases. Numerous studies, in fact, demonstrate that Sirt-dependent pathways are activated upon physical and cognitive exercises linking mitochondrial function, DNA structure remodeling and gene expression regulation to designed medical therapies leading to tangible beneficial outcomes. However, in similar conditions, other studies assign to sirtuins a negative pathophysiological role. In spite of this controversial effect, it is doubtless that studying sirtuins in chronic diseases might lead to an unprecedented improvement of life quality in the elderly.
Attempt to Untangle the Prion-Like Misfolding Mechanism for Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Sarnataro Daniela
Published: October 2018

The misfolding and aggregation of proteins is the neuropathological hallmark for numerous diseases including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and prion diseases. It is believed that misfolded and abnormal β-sheets forms of wild-type proteins are the vectors of these diseases by acting as seeds for the aggregation of endogenous proteins. Cellular prion protein (PrPC) is a glycosyl-phosphatidyl-inositol (GPI) anchored glycoprotein that is able to misfold to a pathogenic isoform PrPSc, the causative agent of prion diseases which present as sporadic, dominantly inherited and transmissible infectious disorders. Increasing evidence highlights the importance of prion-like seeding as a mechanism for pathological spread in Alzheimer’s disease and Tauopathy, as well as other neurodegenerative disorders. Here, we report the latest findings on the mechanisms controlling protein folding, focusing on the ER (Endoplasmic Reticulum) quality control of GPI-anchored proteins and describe the “prion-like” properties of amyloid-β and tau assemblies. Furthermore, we highlight the importance of pathogenic assemblies interaction with protein and lipid membrane components and their implications in both prion and Alzheimer’s diseases
Cigarette Smoke During Breastfeeding in Rats Changes Glucocorticoid and Vitamin D Status in Obese Adult Offspring
Authors: Novaes Soares Patricia , Silva Tavares Rodrigues Vanessa , Cherem Peixoto Thamara , Calvino Camila , Aparecida Miranda Rosiane , Pereira Lopes Bruna , Peixoto-Silva Nayara , Lopes Costa Luciana , Claudio-Neto Sylvio , Christian Manhães Alex , Oliveira Elaine , Gaspar de Moura Egberto , Cristina Lisboa Patricia
Published: October 2018

Maternal smoking increases obesogenesis in the progeny. Obesity is associated with several hormonal dysfunctions. In a rat model of postnatal tobacco smoke exposure, we previously reported increased central fat depot and disruption of some hormonal systems in the adult offspring. As both glucocorticoids and vitamin D alter lipogenesis and adipogenesis, here we evaluated the metabolism of these two hormones in visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and liver by Western blotting, and possible associations with lipogenesis biomarkers in adult rats that were exposed to tobacco smoke during their suckling period. At postnatal day (PN) 3, dams and offspring of both sexes were exposed (S group) or not (C group) to tobacco smoke, 4 × 1 h/day. At PN180, corticosteronemia was lower in S male and higher in S female offspring, without alterations in peripheral glucocorticoid metabolism and receptor. Adrenal ACTH receptor (MC2R) was higher in both sexes of S group. Despite unchanged serum vitamin D, liver 25-hydroxylase was higher in both sexes of S group. Male S offspring had higher 1α-hydroxylase, acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC), and fatty acid synthase (FAS) in VAT. Both sexes showed increased ACC protein content and reduced sirtuin mRNA in liver. Male S offspring had lower liver peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α. Tobacco exposure during lactation induced abdominal obesity in both sexes via distinct mechanisms. Males and females seem to develop HPA-axis dysfunction instead of changes in glucocorticoid metabolism and action. Lipogenesis in VAT and liver, as well as vitamin D status, are more influenced by postnatal smoke exposure in male than in female adult rat offspring.
Beam-Background Tests with TOTEM Roman Pot Detectors at the LHC Injection Energy
Authors: Kašpar Jan
Published: October 2018

With the aim of measuring the total cross-section and the ρ parameter, TOTEM has performed tests of beam conditions at the LHC injection energy of s = 900   GeV . The tests have revealed complications in setting up the LHC collimators to minimise the background observed in the Roman Pot (RP) detectors, summarised in this article. In two tests a subset of the RPs was exposed to background compatible with the physics requirements. If no improvement of the collimation strategy is found, it is shown that a small retraction of the RPs can significantly reduce the observed background level.
Association between Work and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Authors: Van der Molen H. F. , De Groene G. J. , Hulshof C. T. J. , Frings-Dresen M. H. W.
Published: October 2018

To support occupational physicians in their assessment and notification of occupational diseases, diagnostic registration guidelines are developed with information about associations between work-related risk factors and diseases. The objective of this review of systematic reviews is to examine whether work-related risk factors are associated with chronic pulmonary obstructive disease (COPD). We searched the electronic database of Medline for systematic reviews published between 1 January 2009 and 20 June 2017. Reviews were included when COPD was assessed by data on lung function and when work-related exposures to vapors, dusts, gases, or fumes (VDGF) were described. One author selected studies and extracted data; two authors assessed study quality using A MeaSurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews (AMSTAR). In all eight systematic reviews included, various exposures to vapors, dusts, gases, and fumes (VGDF) at work are associated with COPD. Two-thirds of the included studies are cross-sectional and show a high heterogeneity in population, setting, and mostly self-reported-exposures. Two high-quality reviews (AMSTAR score ≥ 9) including meta-analyses show associations and excess risk of COPD for work-related general exposure to VDGF with a summary odds ratio of 1.4 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.19–1.73) and to inorganic dust with a mean difference in predicted forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) of −5.7% (95% CI: −8.62% to −2.71%). Exposure to VGDF at work is associated with a small but increased risk of COPD. More detailed workplace measurements of specific VGDF are warranted to gain an insight into dose–response relationships.
Towards a Business Model Framework to Increase Collaboration in the Freight Industry
Authors: Vargas Alix , Patel Shushma , Patel Dilip
Published: October 2018

Collaboration in the freight industry has not been widely adopted mainly due to the perceived barriers in competition resulting in a lack of trust among fleet operators. Collaboration in this sector has significant benefits, including the reduction of empty running, operating costs (OPEX) and greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) resulting in greater utilisation of existing logistics assets. A review of the literature to establish the critical aspects of freight collaboration was undertaken, as well as analyses of published case studies and European Union (EU)-funded projects. The critical aspects and barriers identified include: revenue sharing; compliance with competition law; process synchronization; organisational and systems interoperability; different forms of collaboration from a physical and coordination structure perspective; and strategies for collaboration. To facilitate collaboration a freight collaborative business model (FCBM) framework that highlights problematic areas in freight collaboration is proposed to support standardizing collaborative practices in the freight industry. Three published freight industry collaboration business cases were evaluated against the model. The business model framework is intended as a tool to be used to compare different business models and identify the best innovations to help facilitate collaborative practices. The freight collaboration business model was applied to the Freight Share Lab research project in order to demonstrate the concept and investigate whether efficiency can be unlocked through deployment of a dynamic data and asset sharing platform to enable route and load optimization across multiple fleets of freight vehicles, rail freight wagons and containers.
Temperature Dependence of Mechanical, Electrical Properties and Crystal Structure of Polyethylene Blends for Cable Insulation
Authors: Li Lunzhi , Zhong Lisheng , Zhang Kai , Gao Jinghui , Xu Man
Published: October 2018

There is a long-standing puzzle concerning whether polyethylene blends are a suitable substitution for cable-insulation-used crosslinking polyethylene (XLPE) especially at elevated temperatures. In this paper, we investigate temperature dependence of mechanical, electrical properties of blends with 70 wt % linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) and 30 wt % high density polyethylene (HDPE) (abbreviated as 70 L-30 H). Our results show that the dielectric loss of 70 L-30 H is about an order of magnitude lower than XLPE, and the AC breakdown strength is 22% higher than XLPE at 90 °C. Moreover, the dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMA) measurement and hot set tests suggest that the blends shows optimal mechanical properties especially at high temperature with considerable temperature stability. Further scanning electron microscope (SEM) observation and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis uncover the reason for the excellent high temperature performance and temperature stability, which can be ascribed to the uniform fine-spherulite structure in 70 L-30 H blends with high crystallinity sustaining at high temperature. Therefore, our findings may enable the potential application of the blends as cable insulation material with higher thermal-endurance ability.
Some Results on S-Contractions of Type E
Authors: Fulga Andreea , Karapınar Erdal
Published: October 2018

In this manuscript, we consider the compositions of simulation functions and E-contraction in the setting of a complete metric space. We investigate the existence and uniqueness of a fixed point for this composite form. We give some illustrative examples and provide an application.
Effect of Cryogenic Treatment on Microstructure and Wear Resistance of Carburized 20CrNi2MoV Steel
Authors: Li Binzhou , Li Changsheng , Wang Yu , Jin Xin
Published: October 2018

This paper investigated the response of carburized 20CrNi2MoV steel to cryogenic treatment including microstructure and wear resistance. Two cryogenic treatment methods including cryogenic treatment at −80 °C (CT) and deep cryogenic treatment at −196 °C (DCT) as well as conventional heat treatment (CHT) were carried out after carburizing process. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffractometry (XRD) were employed for microstructure characterization. The wear resistance was investigated by ball-on-disc sliding wear test on a multi-functional tribometer. The results show that the wear resistance of the experimental steel has been improved by 17% due to CT and by 25.5% due to DCT when compared to CHT. This significant improvement in wear resistance after cryogenic treatment is attributed to the microstructural changes including the finer martensitic structure, the reduction of retained austenite and the development of fine and more numerous carbides. Among these factors, the precipitation of fine carbides plays a more prominent role in enhancing wear resistance.
Chemical Constituents from Scindapsus officinalis (Roxb.) Schott. and Their Anti–Inflammatory Activities
Authors: Dong Hongjing , Geng Yanling , Wang Xueyong , Song Xiangyun , Wang Xiao , Yu Jinqian
Published: October 2018

One new monoterpene glycoside (1), one new phenyl glycoside (2), one new caffeoyl derivative (3), were isolated from Scindapsus officinalis (Roxb.) Schott., along with four known compounds (4–7). Structures of the isolated compounds were elucidated by extensive analysis of spectroscopic data, especially 2D NMR data and comparison with literatures. All isolates were evaluated for anti-inflammatory activity against nitric oxide (NO) production in vitro. Compounds 3 and 7 exhibited moderate inhibitory effects on NO production with IC50 values of 12.2 ± 0.8 and 18.9 ± 0.3 μM, respectively.
Quercetagetin and Patuletin: Antiproliferative, Necrotic and Apoptotic Activity in Tumor Cell Lines
Authors: Alvarado-Sansininea Jesús J. , Sánchez-Sánchez Luis , López-Muñoz Hugo , Escobar María L. , Flores-Guzmán Fernando , Tavera-Hernández Rosario , Jiménez-Estrada Manuel
Published: October 2018

Quercetagetin and patuletin were extracted by the same method from two different Tagetes species that have multiple uses in folk medicine in Mexico and around the globe, one of which is as an anticancer agent. Their biological activity (IC50 and necrotic, apoptotic and selective activities of these flavonols) was evaluated and compared to that of quercetin, examining specifically the effects of C6 substitution among quercetin, quercetagetin and patuletin. We find that the presence of a methoxyl group in C6 enhances their potency.