bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
De la robòtica al pensament computacional
Authors: Serrats Gironella Laura
Published: May 2019

La robòtica és un dels eixos centrals del PEC de l’Escola Carme Auguet, que vertebra les propostes curriculars de diferents àrees, a tots els nivells. Des de 2012, hem estat concretant una proposta pedagògica en aquest àmbit i aquest camí ens ha portat a passar de “fer robòtica” a “treballar el pensament computacional”.
THE CRISIS OF GLOBAL NEOLIBERALISM AND EDUCATION
Authors: Rosół Adam
Published: May 2019

Visible crisis of neoliberalism prescribes to reflect about the present as well as the future role of education in societies. In Europe for centuries education have been very often used as a tool by authors and executors of ideas and projects of how to construct a social world. That way was also with the project connecting extreme individualism of the counterculture revolution in the sixties and neoliberal economic revolution in the following decades of the XXth century. The project which leads to a domination of global neoliberalism. Authors of constructivistic projects willingly use education to realize their goals. The main point of the text concerns the possibility of freeing education from its instrumental role in realizing different projects of the brave new world.
MORAL EDUCATION IN CHINA – CULTURAL CONTEXT, HISTORY, AND CONTEMPORARY PRACTICE
Authors: Mańkowska Anna
Published: May 2019

The article presents the ways of shaping the morality of Chinese citizens and social attitudes from the beginning of school education to late adulthood. The ways of learning morality are presented: (1) through the school system – through the subject called “moral education” from primary school to high school and ideological education at higher education, (2) through additional activities, such as participation at political organizations, and (3) through the social credit system (adults only). The observations were based on the analysis of research on the core curriculum for teaching the school subject called moral education (primary and secondary school) and my own observations. Analyzes have shown that China has been implementing a moral education plan since the early 1950s, adapting its context to the existing political context. Moralization of citizens is planned and purposeful, and it’s a lifelong process. From the youngest school years to adulthood, the State controls the moral attitudes of citizens, and the “moral” person it is a patriot citizen.
A NECESSIDADE DE RECONHECIMENTO E OS LIMITES DE UMA TEORIA LIBERAL DA JUSTIÇA
Authors: Costa Junior Ernane Salles da
Published: May 2019

O presente artigo busca apresentar, à luz das reflexões de Honneth, as críticas e os limites de uma teoria da justiça liberal. Seu objetivo geral é o de demonstrar que a textura da justiça não é uma dedução de ordem abstrata, mas, ao contrário, está ancorada em relações sociais intersubjetivamente reconhecidas que são constituídas de práticas perpassadas de conteúdo moral. Para tanto, são analisados, primeiro, os componentes de uma teoria liberal da justiça a partir do pensamento de John Rawls. Feito isso, os pilares do liberalismo são submetidos a um exame crítico. Em seguida, o percurso de Honneth é apresentado a fim de traçar respostas às limitações e insuficiências da matriz liberal. A conclusão é no sentido de repensar a justiça para além da dimensão abstrata de modo a evidenciar a necessidade de reconstrução crítica dos fragmentos de normas e princípios morais e políticos já inscritos, ainda que parcialmente, na própria realidade social como processo de aprendizado social ético-normativo de longo prazo. Do ponto de vista metodológico, a pesquisa se sustenta com base na teoria crítica e é basicamente bibliográfica.
USING THE ARMS TREADE TREATY TO ADDRESS PARTORALIST CONFLICT AND WILDLIFE CRIME IN KENYA’S MARGINALIZED REGIONS
Authors: Bolton Matthew
Published: May 2019

Respostas militarizadas ao conflito em área pastoril e aos crimes contra a vida selvagem no Quênia - incluindo o colapso de populações de elefantes e rinocerontes - muitas vezes não atendem aos padrões de direitos humanos e prejudicam as capacidades locais de sustentabilidade, paz e meios de subsistência alternativos. A repressão do Estado encoraja a violência extrajudicial e introduz novas armas que muitas vezes entram ilicitamente no mercado. Este artigo descreve abordagens alternativas enraizadas nos direitos humanos, no Estado de Direito e na cooperação e assistência internacionais, incluindo o uso de instrumentos regionais que regulam o comércio de armas pequenas e leves (SALW, na sigla em inglês para Small Arms and Light Weapons), incluindo o Tratado de Comércio de Armas (ATT, na sigla em inglês para Arms Trade Treaty) de 2013. O artigo baseia-se no trabalho de campo no Quênia e na observação participante na defesa do ATT.
Estoque de nutrientes na serapilheira acumulada em quatro tipos de vegetação no Cerrado em Goiás, Brasil
Authors: Carvalho Hellen Cristina de Sousa , Ferreira Jorge Luís Sousa , Calil Francine Neves , Silva-Neto Carlos De Melo e
Published: May 2019

Estudos sobre estoque de nutrientes na serapilheira são importantes para consolidar informações sobre a ciclagem de nutrientes e produtividade em ecossistemas florestais. O objetivo deste estudo foi caracterizar o estoque de nutrientes na serapilheira acumulada em quatro tipos de vegetação no Cerrado, no estado de Goiás. A coleta da serapilheira acumulada foi realizada de forma aleatória em quatro tipos de vegetação (Área de Preservação Permanente, Cerrado Sentido Restrito, povoamento com Eucalyptus e povoamento com Pinus), utilizando uma moldura com 25 cm x 25 cm (0,0625 m2) de dimensão. A serapilheira foi triada nas frações folhas/acículas, galhos, cascas, materiais reprodutivos e miscelânea, com posterior determinação de massa seca, teor e estoque de nutrientes. O maior estoque de nutrientes foi encontrado na serapilheira acumulada na Área de Preservação Permanente, onde o cálcio é o elemento acumulado em maior quantidade quando comparado aos demais macronutrientes. Na serapilheira acumulada nos demais tipos de vegetação, o nitrogênio esteve estocado em maior quantidade. O nitrogênio é um nutriente de suma importância no metabolismo da planta, sendo essencial à fotossíntese. Para os micronutrientes, o elemento mais acumulado foi o manganês, na serapilheira produzida em todos os tipos de vegetação. O manganês tem função importante para as plantas, pois atua no desenvolvimento das raízes e na síntese de clorofila. Os elementos estocados em menores quantidades são o fósforo e enxofre. O gradiente de magnitude de estoque dos nutrientes variou de acordo com a fração da serapilheira e com o tipo de vegetação, não apresentado um padrão.
Sintomatología física y mental asociada al síndrome de burnout en los profesionales de la enseñanza
Authors: Esteras Jesús , Chorot Paloma , Sandín Bonifacio
Published: May 2019

Abstract:Physical and mental symptomatology associated with burnout syndrome in teachers.The aim of the present study was to examine the association between burnout and somatic and psychopathological symptomatology, in a sample of 171 teachers working in educational institutions (preschool, elementary school, and middle school). Participants completed the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI), the Somatic Symptoms Scale–Revised (Escala de Síntomas Somáticos–Revisada, ESS-R), and the Symptoms Assessment–45 Questionnaire (SA-45). Results indicate that the MBI dimension of “emotional exhaustion” is closely associated with somatic and psychopathological symptoms. Also, we found that teachers with burnout syndrome reported a higher level of (somatic and psychopathologic) symptomatology compared to non-burnout teachers. Results are discussed in relation to possible profiles associated with burnout.Key words: Burnout syndrome; teachers; somatic symptoms; psychopathological symptoms, health. Resumen:El objetivo del presente estudio consistió en examinar la asociación entre el burnout y la sintomatología somática y psicopatológica en una muestra de 171 docentes (media de edad = 39.23, DT= 11.12) que trabajaban en centros educativos (preescolar, primaria, y ESO/bachillerato). Los participantes cumplimentaron el Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI), la Escala de Síntomas Somáticos–Revisada (ESS-R), y el Symptoms Assessment–45 Questionnaire (SA-45). Los resultados indican que la dimensión de “agotamiento emocional” del MBI se asocia estrechamente a la sintomatología somática y psicopatológica. Así mismo, se constata que los docentes con síndrome de burnout informan de mayor nivel de sintomatología (somática y psicopatológica) comparado con los docentes sin el síndrome. Se discuten los resultados en relación con los posibles perfiles asociados al burnout.Palabras clave: Síndrome de burnout; docentes; profesores; síntomas somáticos; síntomas psicopatológicos; salud.
Post Herpetic Osteonecrosis of the Maxilla
Authors: AJİLA Vidya , NAİDU Giridhar , R Gopakumar
Published: May 2019

Herpes Zoster (HZ) is caused by the secondary reactivation of Varicella Zoster virus. It is characterised by presence of severe pain and unilateral vesicles along the distribution of the affected nerve. Osteonecrosis is one of the rare complications of Herpes Zoster which is seen after the acute phase of the illness has subsided. We report a case of osteonecrosis of the maxilla in 35-years–old female. The subject gave a history of Herpes Zoster of the maxillary branch of the trigeminal nerve. After healing of the lesions, she then developed osteonecrosis of the maxilla. Further investigations revealed her HIV positive status. The clinical features, pathogenesis and management of this rare condition are described. Further, the occurrence of HZ induced osteonecrosis lead to the diagnosis of HIV in the present case.
The Impact of Platform-Switched Implants on the Marginal Bone Level and Soft Tissue Dimensions
Authors: DURKAN Rukiye , OYAR Perihan , DESTE Gonca
Published: May 2019

Objectives: The objective of this study is to compare the characteristics of the concept of platform-switched implants (PSW) that have recently emerged in implant dentistry and its effects on the marginal bone loss (MBL) around the implant with platform-matched implants (PMI).Data: In the study, PSW implant-abutment connection system, MBL, and peri-implant hard and soft tissue changes were examined. The research terms used in the study are dental implant, platform switching concept, switched platform, platform mismatch, platform-matched implants, and dental implant-abutment design. Sources: In the electronic research, the language was selected as English and studies conducted until March 2018 were investigated without year limitation. The electronic studies include the National Library of Medicine, PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, Cochrane Oral Health Group Trials, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. Study selection: Studies, retrospective or prospective clinical human studies, either randomized systematic review and meta-analyses, and finite element analyses (FEA) were examined. Case reports and studies of animal experiments were excluded from the review. Conclusions: It was observed that clinical trials consisted of short and medium-term follow-ups and biomechanical studies were limited. It was observed that PSW implant systems obtain positive results in reducing the MBL and are more aesthetic in terms of soft tissue formation compared to PMI systems, and interest has been gradually increasing in the PSW system in recent years. It was revealed that long-term clinical trials for the PSW system are required.
Optical Properties of Novel Resin Matrix Ceramic Systems at Different Thicknesses
Authors: ÇELİK Ersan , GÖKTEPE Büşra
Published: May 2019

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of material and thickness on the translucency parameters (TP) and opalescence parameters (OP) for resin matrix ceramic blocks. Materials and Methods: 90 disc-shaped specimens (8 mm diameter and A2 shade, High Translucency) were fabricated from Vita Enamic, Lava Ultimate and GC Cerasmart resin-matrix ceramic blocks and prepared to thicknesses of 0.5 mm, 1 mm and 1.5 mm (n=10).  A dental spectrophotometer (VITA Easyshade Advance) was used to calculate the TP and OP. All specimens were placed on white and black backgrounds. The color measurements were repeated three times for each of the specimens and the mean values of L, a and b were calculated. Data were analyzed by a two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey’s test. Results: For the 0.5 mm thickness groups, GC Cerasmart had the highest and Vita Enamic had the lowest TP values. For the 1 mm thickness groups, GC Cerasmart had the highest TP, whereas Vita Enamic had the lowest TP. For the 1.5 mm thickness groups, Lava Ultimate had the highest TP, whereas Vita Enamic had the lowest TP. For the 0.5 mm thickness groups, Vita Enamic, and GC Cerasmart had the highest and lowest OP, respectively. The OP values in the 1 mm thickness group of Vita Enamic groups were higher than the GC Cerasmart and Lava Ultimate groups. The OP values in the 1.5 mm thickness group Lava Ultimate group were higher than the GC Cerasmart and Vita Enamic groups. In all groups, the OP values showed an increase in parallel with the increase in thicknesses, in contrast, the TP values showed a decrease. Conclusions: Type and thickness of the resin matrix ceramics affect the optical properties of the materials.
El rol de la Unidad de Bienestar Estudiantil en la Universidad Estatal del Sur de Manabí
Authors: Venegas Loor Leopoldo Vinicio , Moreira Aguayo Paola Yadira , Chávez Pozo Danny Eduardo
Published: May 2019

Las Instituciones de Educación Superior (IES) en Ecuador han atravesado cambios muy profundos, históricamente desde la creación de la nueva Constitución del Ecuador del año 2008; dichos cambios han permitido que la universidad ecuatoriana fortalezca los principales procesos sustantivos como la vinculación, docencia e investigación, sin dejar de lado las actividades de gestión que son fundamentales para el óptimo desarrollo de lo antes nombrado. A estos procesos ya existentes se ha agregado un elemento clave, el bienestar estudiantil, que permite demostrar el interés que tienen las IES frente a los profesionales en formación. La presente investigación se desarrolla en la Universidad Estatal del Sur de Manabí (UNESUM), siendo su principal objetivo determinar la importancia e impacto del bienestar estudiantil.
Dimensión social del alumnado que cursa formación continua a nivel de posgrado en educación superior en Paraguay: el caso de la Universidad Autónoma de Asunción
Authors: Caballero Merlo Javier Numan
Published: May 2019

El objetivo es analizar de manera institucional la dimensión social de los estudiantes de posgrados en el área de educación en la UAA. Esto, desde el paradigma pragmático (mixto) y el método de investigación evaluativa, no experimental, desarrollando un análisis según los datos descriptivos del informe por síntesis de los ítems del cuestionario[1]  aplicado dentro del marco de la participación en el mismo.  
 
Entre los resultados se encuentran: la hegemonía femenina en la matricula; la baja participación en casi todos los ámbitos salvo en aquellos directamente vinculados con sus actividades académicas; mayor capital cultural respecto a sus ascendientes; que el capital heredado condiciona pero no determina la movilidad meritocrática individual; la mayoría trabaja para costearse sus estudios; niveles muy bajos de becarios; la nula inclusión de estudiantes de origen indígena; y, la participación mayoritaria en actividades asociadas al uso de tecnologías de la información comparadas con otras actividades culturales.
 
Las conclusiones principales son la relevancia de los datos sobre la dimensión social para la gobernanza, y la corrección-ajuste de la agenda de su política institucional, considerando la realidad social de origen de los educandos y la pertinencia curricular con la que son formados los nuevos docentes. Y que, los resultados destacan la beta de acceso amplio a las TICs, lo que potencia el desarrollo del e-learning como buena práctica innovadora institucional.

[1] Dentro del marco del proyecto TO-INN From Tradition to Innovation in Teacher Training Institutions (https://www.toinn.org/)
Límites y posibilidades de las políticas institucionales inclusivas en las universidades del conurbano bonaerense. Explorando caminos nuevos
Authors: Cambours de Donini Ana María , Lastra Karina , Mihal Ivana , Muiños de Britos Stella Maris
Published: May 2019

Este trabajo se inscribe en una línea de investigación que explora las políticas institucionales que llevan a cabo las universidades argentinas para favorecer el acceso, la permanencia y el rendimiento académico de los estudiantes. Particularmente, se concentra en las universidades públicas del Conurbano bonaerense (Provincia de Buenos Aires), que atienden a una población estudiantil proveniente de sectores de bajos ingresos. El objetivo del presente trabajo es identificar, describir y analizar algunas políticas institucionales en dos ámbitos: uno, centrado en aquellas políticas que están orientadas a contribuir al sostenimiento económico de los ingresantes –a través de becas, y de libros y publicaciones que editan las editoriales universitarias– y, otro, que da cuenta de las intervenciones pedagógicas orientadas al acompañamiento académico de los estudiantes en el campo de la pedagogía universitaria y a la flexibilización de la propuesta curricular a través de ofertas semipresenciales o bimodales. El artículo se basa en estudios que siguen una metodología cualitativa que combina entrevistas y el uso de fuentes documentales y estadísticas.
La educación inclusiva en instituciones formadoras de maestros. Balance de la experiencia de la Universidad Pedagógica Nacional de Colombia
Authors: Díaz Flores Olga Cecilia , Lache Rodríguez Luz Mary , Garzón Barragán Isabel , Aterhortúa Cruz Adolfo León
Published: May 2019

Este artículo presenta un balance de los desarrollos de la Universidad Pedagógica Nacional de Colombia (UPN) en el último quinquenio en relación con políticas institucionales, cambios normativos, estrategias y acciones generadas para la formación de maestros, en la perspectiva de la educación superior inclusiva (ESI). A partir de este balance, se desarrolla el contraste con las formulaciones que al respecto hacen las políticas nacionales e internacionales en dos ámbitos de análisis: la educación inclusiva y la formación de maestros en esta última década, que permiten identificar las tensiones en las que se desarrollan las políticas y su interacción con las exigencias estatales, así como los logros que pese a estas tensiones ha producido la Universidad. Las principales tensiones se encuentran entre el desarrollo de una política integral y flexible de educación inclusiva y las condiciones que ofrece el Estado a las Instituciones de Educación Superior (IES) públicas en Colombia; la ausencia de coherencia entre las políticas de formación de maestros y las de educación inclusiva en la educación superior y en cuanto al papel del Estado en términos de su corresponsabilidad en el desarrollo de las políticas públicas.
Políticas públicas para la equidad social
Authors: Galdames Calderón Marisol
Published: May 2019

Las políticas públicas son una de las principales herramientas que tiene la ciudadanía para plasmar su voluntad a la hora de construir una sociedad representativa, democrática y justa. Asimismo, el Estado las utiliza para resolver los problemas de distribución, equidad e inclusión social. Por ello, este libro ofrece un espacio de diálogo internacional e inerdisciplinario en torno a las políticas públicas a partir de tres ejes: Educación, Género y Economía.
Indication of current-injection lasing from an organic semiconductor
Authors: Sandanayaka Atula S. D. , Matsushima Toshinori , Bencheikh Fatima , Terakawa Shinobu , Potscavage William J. , Qin Chuanjiang , Fujihara Takashi , Goushi Kenichi , Ribierre Jean-Charles , Adachi Chihaya
Published: May 2019

In this study, we investigate the lasing properties of 4,4′-bis[(N-carbazole)styryl]biphenyl thin films under electrical pumping. The electroluminescent devices incorporate a mixed-order distributed feedback SiO2 grating into an organic light-emitting diode structure and emit blue lasing. The results provide an indication of lasing by direct injection of current into an organic thin film through selection of a high-gain organic semiconductor showing clear separation of the lasing wavelength from significant triplet and polaron absorption and design of a proper feedback structure with low losses at high current densities. This study represents an important advance toward a future organic laser diode technology.
Recommendations for dietary level of micro-minerals and vitamin D3 to Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) parr and post-smolt when fed low fish meal diets
Authors: Antony Jesu Prabhu P. , Lock Erik-Jan , Hemre Gro-Ingunn , Hamre Kristin , Espe Marit , Olsvik Pål A. , Silva Joana , Hansen Ann-Cecilie , Johansen Johan , Sissener Nini H. , Waagbø Rune
Published: May 2019

Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) feeds have changed drastically in their composition from being predominantly marine-based to plant-based. This has altered the dietary supply and availability of micro-nutrients to Atlantic salmon. The impact of graded inclusion levels of a nutrient package (NP) comprising of 25 different micro-nutrients were studied in Atlantic salmon parr in freshwater (Trial 1) and post-smolts in seawater (Trial 2). In brief, the NP was included from 0 to 400%, where 100% corresponded to the recommendation by the National Research Council, 2011. Micro-nutrients, namely Zn, Mn, Se, Cu, Fe, Co, I and vitamin D3 were included in the NP with the objective of (re)evaluating the dietary need to meet the requirement of Atlantic salmon parr and post-smolt, when fed low fish meal, plant ingredient-based diets. Responses in apparent availability coefficient (AAC), whole body and vertebrae mineral concentrations, and retention were analysed. AAC of Cu, Mn, Se and Zn responded in a quadratic fashion with an increase in NP from 0 to 400% in freshwater parr; AAC could not be measured in post-smolt salmon. The whole-body concentration of Zn, Se, Co and I in Atlantic salmon parr were significantly affected by increasing NP inclusion; the same was observed for Zn, Se and Co in post-smolt Atlantic salmon. Vertebrae mineral concentration as the response criterion was non-responsive in parr; whereas, in post-smolt, Co had a linear increase, while Zn and Se showed a non-linear increase upon 0 to 400 NP inclusion. Zinc concentration and activities of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) in vertebrae indicated increased bone resorption in post-smolt Atlantic salmon; TRAP activity increased linearly with NP inclusion in post-smolt, but not in parr. Significant correlations between Zn and Se were observed in AAC and vertebral concentrations, indicating an interaction in intestinal uptake and vertebral deposition. Overall, Atlantic salmon parr held in freshwater were able to satisfy the requirement for the trace minerals Zn, Mn, Se, Cu, and Fe through supply from 100–150 NP, corresponding to 101–132, 47–63, 0.6–0.8, 12–16 and 150–166 mg kg −1, respectively; for iodine, dietary supply from 150–200 NP, corresponding to 0.7–1.6 mg kg−1, was required. In the seawater, Atlantic salmon post-smolt, in general, required micro-minerals and vitamin D3 levels as supplied through 150–200 NP, corresponding to 140–177, Zn; 61–67, Mn; 0.9–1, Se; 14–16, Cu; and vitamin D3, 0.06–0.09 mg kg −1 to fulfil the requirement, except for Cu which was satisfied at 100–150 NP, equivalent to 13–14 mg kg −1 diet.
Integrating species and interactions into similarity metrics: a graph theory-based approach to understanding community similarity
Authors: López Daniela N. , Camus Patricio A. , Valdivia Nelson , Estay Sergio A.
Published: May 2019

Community similarity is often assessed through similarities in species occurrences and abundances (i.e., compositional similarity) or through the distribution of species interactions (i.e., interaction similarity). Unfortunately, the joint empirical evaluation of both is still a challenge. Here, we analyze community similarity in ecological systems in order to evaluate the extent to which indices based exclusively on species composition differ from those that incorporate species interactions. Borrowing tools from graph theory, we compared the classic Jaccard index with the graph edit distance (GED), a metric that allowed us to combine species composition and interactions. We found that similarity measures computed using only taxonomic composition could differ strongly from those that include composition and interactions. We conclude that new indices that incorporate community features beyond composition will be more robust for assessing similitude between natural systems than those purely based on species occurrences. Our results have therefore important conceptual and practical consequences for the analysis of ecological communities.
Interplay of Knowledge Creation Capability and Organizational Forgetting on Absorptive Capacity and Innovation Performance among SMEs: A Symmetrical Approaches
Authors: Raisal Ismail , Tarofder Arun Kumar , Haleem Athambawa
Published: May 2019

Organizations needs knowledge creation capability and organizational forgetting to enrich their innovative performance in ever-changing business setting.The purpose of this article is to explore the influence of knowledge creation capability, organizational forgetting and absorptive capacity on Firm’s innovative performance. We test the model using Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to analyze empirical data collected from 194SMEs listed in Sri Lanka inventors’ commission.The findings of the study show that in addition to their individually positive impact of knowledge creation capability and organizational forgetting on firm’s innovative performance, the absorptive capacity mediates the relationship between knowledge creation capability, organizational forgetting and innovation performance. As one of the first studies to integrate the  capabilities of creating internal new knowledge and unlearning outdated knowledge for advancing firm innovativenessthrough the mediating effect of absorptive capacity. A major implication of this finding is that absorptive capacity enhances the effect of knowledge creation capability and organizational forgetting on firm's innovativeness and affects the types of innovation strategies adopted by firms.
Micronutrient Biofortification in Pulses: An Agricultural Approach
Authors: Ghosh Ananya , Hasim Reja Md. , Nalia Arpita , Kanthal Sahely , Maji Srijani , Venugopalan Visha Kumari , Nath Rajib
Published: May 2019

Micronutrients are important growth promoting elements not only for crops but also for human being. More than two billion of the global populations are malnourished. For developing countries like India, micronutrient malnutrition among the people of every age is very common. The impact is highly seen in poor and landless rural people who can’t afford diverse foods or supplements in their diets with needed nutrients. To alleviate this micronutrient deficiency, biofortification has come to the surface as a potent option. Biofortification of crops can increase the level of micronutrients in final food products. Pulses are the cheapest sources of proteins, vitamins and micronutrients and can be supplied to the people through daily diet. Pulses are irrefutable contender for Biofortification since it is easily available to the each and every group of people. This paper focuses on the role of micronutrients on human health and various mechanisms to get nutrient rich staple food along with main emphasis on biofortification.
Abnormal Changes in Some Haemostatic Parameters in First-ever Stroke Patients in Port Harcourt, Nigeria: A Preliminary Findings
Authors: Buseri Fiekumo Igbida , Christian Serekara Gideon , Eze Evelyn Mgbeoma
Published: May 2019

Background and Purpose: Cellular component and clotting factors are involved in thrombotic events such as stroke, but the type and nature of alteration of those haemostatic parameters remain unclear. Our objective was to identify possible abnormal changes in some haemostatic parameters in established stroke patients.

Materials and Methods: This was a prospective case-control study conducted at Braithwaite Memorial Specialist Hospital, Port Harcourt, Nigeria. Standard operating procedures were adopted to assay fibrinogen, antithrombin, tissue plasminogen activator, prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time as well as the determination of platelet count and platelet indices. The data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 17.0 software.

Results: A total of 108 individuals comprised of 54 stroke patients aged between 45 and 73 years (mean, 59± 13.04 years), 20 (37.04%) men and 34 (62.96%) women and another 54 age- and sex-matched healthy control subjects were studied. Significantly (p<0.05) higher mean values of mean platelet volume (MPPV), platelet distribution width (PDW), Platelet larger cell ratio (PLCR), antithrombin, tissue plasminogen activator and fibrinogen were observed in the stroke patients when compared to those of the control subjects. Whereas, significantly lower (p<0.05) mean values of platelet count, prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time were observed in the stroke patients than in those of the control subjects.

Conclusion: Several haemostatic parameters were found to be altered in stroke patients and have the potential to be risk factors but have not been demonstrated as being causative. Further work is needed to establish where they begin to contribute to stroke prognosis.
Physical Therapists’ Falls Prevention Knowledge, Beliefs, and Practices in Osteoarthritis Care: A National Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Ackerman Ilana N. , Soh Sze‐Ee , Barker Anna L.
Published: May 2019

Objective

To investigate physical therapists’ knowledge, beliefs, and current practices around falls prevention in osteoarthritis (OA) care.

Methods

Currently registered, practicing Australian physical therapists who care for patients with hip and/or knee OA were invited to participate in this cross‐sectional study. A comprehensive online survey was used to collect data that were analyzed descriptively or using chi‐square tests; free‐text responses were classified into key themes for analysis.

Results

Complete responses were received from 370 eligible physical therapists, with broad representation across Australian states and practice settings. Participants worked in public and private hospitals, community health centers, private practices, and aged‐care facilities. The sample ranged from new graduates to experienced physical therapists (47% had practiced ≥11 years). Despite the majority having specific training or access to educational resources, physical therapists reported only moderate confidence in assessing falls risk (median 7 [interquartile range (IQR) 6–8]; range 0 [not at all confident] to 10 [extremely confident]) and delivering falls prevention care (median 7 [IQR 6–8]). While most participants asked about falls history (88%), only 39% used falls‐risk screening tools, and of these, relatively few used appropriate tools. Time constraints (including competing clinical priorities) were the most frequently perceived barrier to including falls prevention activities within OA care.

Conclusion

This national snapshot of contemporary OA practice has revealed clear opportunities for optimizing clinician confidence and skills to facilitate the uptake of best‐practice falls prevention strategies. Improving practice in this area may yield substantial benefits to patients and the health system if more falls can be prevented.
Prevalence of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis in the Alaska Native Population
Authors: Khodra Beverly , M. Stevens Anne , Ferucci Elizabeth D.
Published: May 2019

Objective

To determine the prevalence and clinical characteristics of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) in Alaska Native children.

Methods

Potential cases of JIA were identified by querying administrative data from hospitals and clinics in the Alaska Tribal Health System for codes possibly identifying JIA. Medical record abstraction was performed to confirm criteria met for JIA, demographic and clinical characteristics, and treatment patterns. Individuals age ≤18 years with a confirmed diagnosis of JIA were included. The denominator for prevalence was the 2015 Alaska Area Indian Health Service user population age of ≤18 years.

Results

The unadjusted prevalence of JIA in Alaska Native children was 74.6 per 100,000 (age‐adjusted 79.0 per 100,000). JIA was more common in females than males (unadjusted prevalence 105.8 versus 45.0 per 100,000). Oligoarthritis was the most common subtype (31% of cases), but polyarthritis and enthesitis‐related arthritis were also common (26% and 24% of cases, respectively), with a notably high prevalence of enthesitis‐related arthritis. The median age at diagnosis was 9 years. Of the combined cohort with results available, 56% were antinuclear antibody positive, 23% were rheumatoid factor positive, 19% were anti–cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody positive, and 57% had the presence of HLA–B27. Uveitis had been diagnosed in 16% of cases.

Conclusion

The prevalence of JIA in Alaska Native children may be higher than the general US population. Enthesitis‐related arthritis makes up a higher proportion of cases than in other populations described likely because of the high prevalence of HLA–B27 in this population.
When Prussian Blue Meets Porous Gold Nanoparticles: A High Signal‐to‐Background Surface‐Enhanced Raman Scattering Probe for Cellular Biomarker Imaging
Authors: Li Xuejing , Zeng Erzao , Di Huixia , Li Qiang , Ji Jingwei , Yang Jie , Liu Dingbin
Published: May 2019

Profiling cellular biomarkers without the interference of endogenous signals could facilitate the investigation of complex intracellular biological events and provide new possibilities for precision disease diagnosis. Herein, a surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) probe with a high signal‐to‐background ratio (SBR) for cellular biomarker imaging is constructed. The probes are prepared by incorporating Prussian blue (PB) with porous gold nanoparticles (p‐Au NPs). Due to their rich built‐in Raman hotspots, the p‐Au NPs are excellent SERS substrates that can significantly amplify the signals of the incorporated PB. In parallel, PB shows a single peak in the cellular silent region, where the signals from the probes and endogenous molecules can be completely resolved without the need of complex spectral unmixing. As a consequence, the combination of probe signal enhancement and background elimination endows the SERS probes with an extremely high SBR. To evaluate their performance in biomarker imaging, the high‐SBR SERS probes are utilized to profile folic acids at a single‐cell level. This background‐free, high‐precision imaging technique is conducive to early diagnosis and therapeutic response of cancer that is of great importance in clinical settings.
Quasiepitaxy Strategy for Efficient Full‐Inorganic Sb2S3 Solar Cells
Authors: Deng Hui , Zeng Yiyu , Ishaq Muhammad , Yuan Shengjie , Zhang Huan , Yang Xiaokun , Hou Mingming , Farooq Umar , Huang Jialiang , Sun Kaiwen , Webster Richard , Wu Hao , Chen Zhenhua , Yi Fei , Song Haisheng , Hao Xiaojing , Tang Jiang
Published: May 2019

Antimony sulfide (Sb2S3) as a wide‐bandgap, nontoxic, and stable photovoltaic material reveals great potential for the uppermost cells in Si‐based tandem cell stacks. Sb2S3 solar cells with a compatible process, acceptable cost, and high efficiency therefore become the mandatory prerequisites to match silicon bottom cells. The performance of vacuum processed Sb2S3 device is pinned by bulk and interfacial recombination. Herein, a thermally treated TiO2 buffer layer induces quasiepitaxial growth of vertical orientation Sb2S3 absorber overcoming interface defects and absorber transport loss. Such novel growth could pronouncedly improve the open‐circuit voltage (Voc) due to the superior interface quality and intraribbon transport. The epitaxial rough Sb2S3 surface shows a texturized‐like morphology. It is optimized by tuning the grain sizes to form strong light trapping effect, which further enhances the short‐circuit current density (Jsc) with a 16% improvement. The final optimal device with high stability obtains a power conversion efficiency of 5.4%, which is the best efficiency for full‐inorganic Sb2S3 solar cells. The present developed quasiepitaxy strategy supports a superior interface, vertical orientation, and surface light trapping effect, which provides a new perspective for efficient noncubic material thin film solar cells.
Highly Stable Core–Shell Structured Semiconducting Polymer Nanoparticles for FRET‐Based Intracellular pH Imaging
Authors: Bao Biqing , Su Peng , Yang Zhenyuan , Zhai Xue , Zhang Jingjing , Xu Yu , Liu Yunfei , Gu Bingbing , Wang Lianhui
Published: May 2019

Highly stable semiconducting polymer nanoparticles (NPs) (poly(9,9‐dioctylfluorenyl‐2,7‐diyl) (PFO)/ poly(fluorene‐2,7‐ylenevinylene‐co‐phenylene) (PFV)‐dopamine (DA) NPs) with previously unreported core–shell structure are developed for ratiometric sensing of intracellular pH values. PFO/PFV‐DA NPs comprise central polyfluorene (PFO) as donor and PFV as acceptor, in which the donor and acceptor are spatially separated into the central core and nanoparticle shell. Specifically, thick PFV shells can not only significantly minimize the quenching interference of dopamine on the emission of standard reference (PFO), but are also able to maximize its accessibility to pH‐sensitive dopamine and lead to sensitive response to pH changes. The resulting core–shell PFO/PFV NPs are structurally and optically stable, which can avoid the photobleaching and leakage of materials issues compared to traditional semiconducting polymer nanoparticles (SPNs)‐based fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) systems containing small molecules. Additionally, the designed compact PFO/PFV‐DA NPs show quantitative response to the pH values in aqueous media and are capable of mapping intracellular pH fluctuations by ratiometric imaging. This work may open up opportunities for the generalizability of the consistent ratiometric emission intensity strategy based on core–shell structured SPNs nanoprobes for highly sensitive biological sensing.
A Filter Paper‐Based Nanogenerator via Water‐Drop Flow
Authors: Lu Yuanchao , Wu Hui , Yang Qunqing , Ping Jianfeng , Wu Jian , Liu Jun
Published: May 2019

With the increase in energy crisis, it is a promising strategy to develop a nanogenerators for harvesting small amounts of energy. Herein, a flexible and robust filter paper‐based nanogenerator (FPNG), fabricated by printing a modified multiwalled carbon nanotubes ink slurry on filter papers with the specific as‐designed shape, is developed. The results show that the streaming voltage and current are induced from the water‐drop flow across the surface of FPNG, such as rainwater. Compared with the energy‐harvesting performance of FPNG under different conditions, the maximum streaming voltage is obtained with 20 mL h−1 injection speed of 1 × 10−3 m NaCl solution at 75° placement angle for quantitative medium speed FPNG. Under optimum conditions, the power reaches to 9.91 ± 1.39 pW per droplet. Then, the streaming voltage and current produced from dropping rainwater onto the FPNG are investigated and the power is 2.4 ± 0.65 pW per droplet. It is assumed that there are abundant pores and oxygen‐containing functional groups on the surface of filter papers with overlapped and crosslinked morphology, providing vast active sites and ion diffusion channels to enhance the electric double layer capacitance. Therefore, FPNG has good prospects for applications in harvesting energy from water‐drops.
Flexible Indium‐Tin‐Oxide Homojunction Thin‐Film Transistors with Two In‐Plane Gates on Cellulose‐Nanofiber‐Soaked Papers
Authors: Liu Zehua , Nie Sha , Luo Jie , Gao Ya , Wang Xiangyu , Wan Qing
Published: May 2019

Flexible indium‐tin‐oxide (ITO)‐based homojunction thin‐film transistors (TFTs) are fabricated on cellulose‐nanofiber‐soaked paper substrates. The paper is simultaneously used as the gate dielectric and substrate. Source/drain electrodes and a channel layer are sputtered by one‐step radio‐frequency sputtering deposition. The paper exhibits a very large specific electric‐double‐layer capacitance of 2.3 µF cm−2 due to the existence of mobile protons. The flexible ITO‐based TFTs can operate at a low voltage of 2.0 V and show a relatively high ION/IOFF ratio of 7.5 × 106. Furthermore, no obvious electrical degradation is observed at various bending radii. Finally, inverter and NAND logic operation are demonstrated by the TFTs together with two in‐plane gates. Such flexible homojunction TFTs on low‐cost and biodegradable paper are promising for portable paper electronics.
Advances in screening instruments for Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Zhou Xianbo , Ashford J. Wesson
Published: May 2019

At its fundamental basis, Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a pathological process that affects neuroplasticity, leading to a specific disruption of episodic memory. This review will provide a rationale for calls to screen for the early detection of AD, appraise the currently available cognitive instruments for AD detection, and focus on the development of the MemTrax test, which provides a new approach to detect the early manifestations and progression of the dementia associated with AD. MemTrax assesses metrics that reflect the effects of neuroplastic processes on learning, memory, and cognition, which are affected by age and AD, particularly episodic memory functions, which cannot presently be measured with enough precision for meaningful use. Further development of MemTrax would be of great value to the early detection of AD and would provide support for the testing of early interventions.
An analysis of reports concerning overdose evaluated by abdominal computed tomography
Authors: Yanagawa Youichi , Muramatsu Ken‐ichi , Nagasawa Hiroki , Takeuchi Ikuto , Kushida Yoshihiro , Jitsuiki Kei , Ohsaka Hiromichi , Oode Yasumasa , Omori Kazuhiko
Published: May 2019

Recently, there have been a number of reports concerning the utility of abdominal computed tomography (CT) for diagnosing overdose (OD). We herein report the summary and results of an analysis of these reports to assess the significance of CT for patients with OD. Searches of Ichushi (Japana Centra Revuo Medicine) and PubMed were carried out to identify articles from 1983 to 2019 using the key words “poisoning” and “abdominal computed tomography”. Forty‐eight cases across 15 articles were defined as subjects in this report. The average age of subjects was 46 years old, and there were 28 women. Forty‐five of the 48 subjects (93.8%) had positive findings of residual drugs on CT. The finding of a high‐density fluid level in the stomach was the most frequent (60.4%), followed by ill‐defined high‐density material in the stomach (12.5%) and high‐density tablets in the stomach (10.4%). One prospective study suggested the merits of decontamination for patients with positive findings on CT even if more than 60 min had elapsed since the ingestion of drugs. Computed tomography could aid in the diagnosis of OD in comatose patients who cannot talk or who present without any other evidence of OD. In addition, a recent study revealed the merits of decontamination for patients with positive findings on the CT even if more than 60 min had elapsed since the ingestion of drugs.
Molecular Engineering of Conjugated Acetylenic Polymers for Efficient Cocatalyst‐free Photoelectrochemical Water Reduction
Authors: Sun Hanjun , Öner Ibrahim Halil , Wang Tao , Zhang Tao , Selyshchev Oleksandr , Neumann Christof , Fu Yubin , Liao Zhongquan , Xu Shunqi , Hou Yang , Turchanin Andrey , Zahn Dietrich R. T. , Zschech Ehrenfried , Weidinger Inez M. , Zhang Jian , Feng Xinliang
Published: May 2019

Conjugated polymers featuring tunable band gaps/positions and tailored active centers, are attractive photoelectrode materials for water splitting. However, their exploration falls far behind their inorganic counterparts. Herein, we demonstrate a molecular engineering strategy for the tailoring aromatic units of conjugated acetylenic polymers from benzene‐ to thiophene‐based. The polarized thiophene‐based monomers of conjugated acetylenic polymers can largely extend the light absorption and promote charge separation/transport. The C≡C bonds are activated for catalyzing water reduction. Using on‐surface Glaser polycondensation, as‐fabricated poly(2,5‐diethynylthieno[3,2‐b]thiophene) on commercial Cu foam exhibits a record H2‐evolution photocurrent density of 370 μA cm−2 at 0.3 V vs. reversible hydrogen electrode among current cocatalyst‐free organic photocathodes (1–100 μA cm−2). This approach to modulate the optical, charge transfer, and catalytic properties of conjugated polymers paves a critical way toward high‐activity organic photoelectrodes.
Self‐healing semi‐IPN materials from epoxy resin by solvent‐free furan–maleimide Diels–Alder polymerization
Authors: Zolghadr Mohsen , Shakeri Alireza , Zohuriaan‐Mehr Mohammad Jalal , Salimi Ali
Published: May 2019

Novel self‐healing Diels–Alder (DA) polymer and the corresponding semi‐interpenetrated polymer networks (semi‐IPNs) were synthesized and characterized. Initially, a furan‐functionalized resin (FFR) was synthesized through the ring‐opening reaction of a conventional epoxy resin [diglycidyl ether bisphenol A (DGEBA)] with furfuryl alcohol as a bio‐based compound. Subsequently, semi‐IPNs with different compositions were obtained through the blending of DGEBA, FFR, 4,4′‐diaminodiphenylmethane, and 1,1′‐(methylenedi‐1,4‐phenylene) bismaleimide in the molten state by following a predetermined time–temperature program. Fourier transform infrared and nuclear magnetic resonance analyses confirmed the successful synthesis of the materials. Thermoreversibility via retro‐DA (rDA) reaction was evidenced by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and sol–gel transition tests. Repeated DSC cycle was successfully performed thrice on the DA polyadduct which corroborated repeatability of the DA/rDA association/dissociation. Self‐healing and mechanical properties were preliminarily evaluated by scanning electronic microscopy and flexural testing analyses, respectively. The self‐healing efficiencies were around 80 and 95% for semi‐IPN and DA polyadduct, respectively, based on flexural strength. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 48015.
Effect of poly(2‐ethyl‐2‐oxazoline) and UV irradiation on the melt rheology and mechanical properties of poly(lactic acid)
Authors: Zhao Guoqing , Thompson Michael R. , Zhu Zhirong
Published: May 2019

To improve the suitability of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) for implantable devices, it ideally needs greater ductility without losses in strength. Here biodegradable poly(2‐ethyl‐2‐oxazoline) (PEtOx) was selected as an additive to improve hydrophilicity of PLA as well as mechanical properties, while UV irradiation was considered as a bulk modification method to increase the long‐term stability. The PLA blend showed improved tensile strength and elongation‐at‐break with small amounts of PEtOx added (1.5 wt %). Crosslinking by UV irradiation showed significant improvements with a dibutyltin dilaurate catalyst even though it produced a high degree of chain scission during melt processing. After UV irradiation for 150 h, the crosslinked material recovered mechanical properties and melt rheological properties comparable to the initial PLA‐1.5%PEtOx blend (without catalyst added). Crosslinking was only possible with the added PEtOx present. A mechanism for the crosslinking reactions examined has been proposed since it has not been previously reported in the literature. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 48023.