bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Multi-Isotopes and Geochemical Modeling for Delineating Recharge and Salinization Sources in Dahab Basin Aquifers (South Sinai, Egypt)
Authors: Eissa Mustafa A.
Published: August 2018

The Dahab watershed comprises three aquifers; the alluvial Quaternary, the Early Cambrian sandstone, and the fractured Pre-Cambrian basement aquifers. The Dahab watershed is located in the southeastern part of the arid Sinai Peninsula, where low precipitation and groundwater over-exploitation deteriorate the groundwater quality in the alluvial coastal plain aquifer located downstream. Multi-isotopes including δ18O and δ2H, 87Sr/86Sr, δ81Br and δ11B coupled with groundwater geochemistry were utilized to assess the recharge source(s), water-rock interaction, and seawater mixing to aid sustainable groundwater management strategies. Br and Cl concentrations, used to measure groundwater salinity, were low in the upstream groundwater, while higher concentrations were observed in the deep drilled wells located downstream, in the main well field. The δ18O and δ2H isotopes were depleted in the upstream aquifers, but enriched in the shallow coastal aquifer, indicating slight evaporation and seawater intrusion. Higher mean values of 87Sr/86Sr and δ81Br were observed in the fresh groundwater from high in the watershed (87Sr/86Sr = 0.707716 and δ81Br = +2.05‰), while lower mean values were observed in the saline groundwater located downstream in the main well field (87Sr/86Sr = 0.706631 and δ81Br = +0.11‰). The cumulative mass balance mixing curves and the geochemical NETPATH model confirm the change of groundwater quality from the upper to lower watershed caused by the leaching and evaporation processes, as well as mixing with seawater. The corrected 14C age dating and stable isotopes show that the Quaternary and Pre-Cambrian basement aquifers contain modern groundwater, while the Early Cambrian aquifer holds paleo-groundwater, which has received considerable recharge from recent precipitation. The mixing ratiosin the Quaternary coastal aquifer range between 5% and 13% seawater to 95% and 87% fresh groundwater, respectively. These results indicate that future groundwater withdrawal must be well managed in order to limit further salinization. Groundwater withdrawal from the Quaternary coastal aquifer must be below the natural average recharge in order to be sustainable.
A Face-Aging Smoking Prevention/Cessation Intervention for Nursery School Students in Germany: An Appearance-Focused Interventional Study
Authors: Brinker Titus J. , Alfitian Jonas , Seeger Werner , Groneberg David A. , Von Kalle Christof , Enk Alexander H. , Herth Felix J. F. , Kreuter Michael , Bauer Claudia M. , Gatzka Martina , Suhre Janina L.
Published: August 2018

The Education Against Tobacco (EAT) network delivers smoking prevention advice in secondary schools, typically using the mirroring approach (i.e., a “selfie” altered with a face-aging app and shared with a class). In November 2017, however, the German assembly of EAT opted to expand its remit to include nursing students. To assess the transferability of the existing approach, we implemented it with the self-developed face-aging app “Smokerface” (=mixed − methods approach) in six nursing schools. Anonymous questionnaires were used to assess the perceptions of 197 students (age 18–40 years; 83.8% female; 26.4% smokers; 23.3% daily smokers) collecting qualitative and quantitative data for our cross-sectional study. Most students perceived the intervention to be fun (73.3%), but a minority disagreed that their own animated selfie (25.9%) or the reaction of their peers (29.5%) had motivated them to stop smoking. The impact on motivation not to smoke was considerably lower than experienced with seventh graders (63.2% vs. 42.0%; notably, more smokers also disagreed (45.1%) than agreed (23.5%) with this statement. Agreement rates on the motivation not to smoke item were higher in females than in males and in year 2–3 than in year 1 students. Potential improvements included greater focus on pathology (29%) and discussing external factors (26%). Overall, the intervention seemed to be appealing for nursing students.
Association between Serum Liver Enzymes and Metabolic Syndrome in Korean Adults
Authors: Kim Hae Ran , Han Mi Ah
Published: August 2018

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the association between alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and metabolic syndrome (MS) in the Korean population. A total of 11,587 adults ≥30 years of age and with complete data were selected from Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey VI conducted from 2013 to 2015. Normal ALT and AST levels were divided into quartiles, and their associations with MS were assessed by logistic regression analysis. Elevated levels of ALT [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 7.90, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 6.50–9.60] and AST (aOR = 3.81, 95% CI = 3.10–4.74) were both significantly associated with a higher prevalence of MS. The quartile group containing the highest levels of ALT and AST within the normal range also showed an increased risk of MS and its components. Elevated levels of ALT and AST, even within the normal range, were associated with prevalence of MS.
Cost and Threshold Analysis of the FinishIt Campaign to Prevent Youth Smoking in the United States
Authors: Weir Brian W. , Cantrell Jennifer , Holtgrave David R. , Greenberg Marisa S. , Kennedy Ryan D. , Rath Jessica M. , Hair Elizabeth C. , Vallone Donna
Published: August 2018

In 2014, Truth Initiative launched the national FinishIt campaign to prevent smoking initiation among youth and young adults. The significant changes in the communications landscape requires further analysis to determine resource requirements for public education campaigns relative to their impact. This analysis estimates the cost of the FinishIt campaign based on data from expenditure records and uses published estimates of the lifetime treatment costs and quality-adjusted life years associated with smoking. The total cost of the FinishIt campaign for 2014–2016 was $162 million. Under assumptions associated with the pessimistic base-case (no medical care costs saved through prevention), 917 smoking careers would need to be averted for the campaign to be cost-effective. Assuming smoking leads to increased medical care costs, 7186 smoking careers would need to be averted for the campaign to be cost-saving. Given these thresholds (917 and 7186) and the estimate of the impact of the previous truth campaign, the investments in the Truth Initiative’s FinishIt campaign are likely warranted for preventing smoking careers among youth and young adults.
Distinct Influences of Urban Villages on Urban Heat Islands: A Case Study in the Pearl River Delta, China
Authors: Wu Wei , Ren Hongyan , Yu Ming , Wang Zhen
Published: August 2018

Widely scattered urban villages (UVs) and increasingly serious urban heat islands (UHIs) are common urban problems in highly urbanized regions, especially in the developing countries. However, the influences of UVs on UHIs remain little understood. In this study, different methodologies are performed to retrieve land surface temperature (LST) from thermal bands and the nearest object-oriented method with spectral, texture, shape metrics using ZY-3 high-resolution satellite imagery, and road network data are used to extract UVs and other land-use types in the Guangzhou–Foshan (GF) core areas of Pearl River Delta (PRD). Moreover, the relationship between LST and land-use types is then analyzed on the multiple scales. The results show that five land-use types (vegetation, normal construction land (NCL), UVs, water, and unused land) extracted by the object-oriented method were qualified for subsequent analysis because of satisfactory overall accuracy (0.887) and the Kappa coefficient (0.863). In the GF core areas presenting the most outstanding UHI effect across the PRD region, about 60.5% of the total area is covered by the impervious surfaces, including NCL (50.4%) and UVs (10.1%). The average LST of UVs was 1.89–2.97 °C lower than that of NCL. According to the average contribution index of thermal effect and the Pearson’s correlation coefficients, UVs present a relatively lower contribution to UHI and a weaker warming effect than NCL, but possess a higher contribution to UHI and a stronger warming effect than other land-use types, resulting in some slightly lower LST-valleys in the UVs adjacent to the NCL and distinct LST-peaks of UVs close to vegetation and water on the surface temperature profile lines. This work increases our understanding of the relationship between increasingly serious UHIs and widely distributed UVs, and would be valuable for local authorities to monitor and improve urban environment in metropolitan regions.
Who Has Higher Willingness to Pay for Occupational Safety and Health?—Views from Groups with Different Public Identities and Differences in Attention
Authors: Li Shanshan , Chen Hong , Huang Xinru , Long Ruyin
Published: August 2018

Background: Occupational safety and health issues are closely associated with the wellbeing and survival of every worker and family, as well as of society as a whole. It is a type of typical public issue and requires cooperative governance among different governing subjects. Methods: According to the questionnaire investigation on 2179 subjects with different identities, the research explored the willingness to pay (WTP) for occupational safety and health and the degree of attention, with different identities, through the difference analysis and descriptive statistical analysis. The research studied the relationship between public attention and WTP through the methods of cross-analysis, correlation analysis, and regression analysis. Results: (1) The public show a disregard attitude to occupational safety and health. (2) The public expect the government to fund and solve occupational safety and health problems rather than for themselves to pay directly. (3) Over 50% of questionnaire respondents defined occupational safety and health problems as being classified into two categories, namely, “no attention—government payment” or “no attention—refusal of individual payment”, according to the analysis. (4) The level of attention paid to occupational safety and health can significantly predict the individual income WTP, item WTP, subject WTP, and event WTP. Conclusions: This research aimed to outline the implications for the governance of occupational safety and health.
Does a Classroom Standing Desk Intervention Modify Standing and Sitting Behaviour and Musculoskeletal Symptoms during School Time and Physical Activity during Waking Time?
Authors: Ee Jolyn , Parry Sharon , IR de Oliveira Beatriz , McVeigh Joanne A. , Howie Erin , Straker Leon
Published: August 2018

Children are increasingly spending more time sedentary at school and during leisure time. This study examined the effects of a standing desk intervention in a classroom on children’s standing and sitting time at school, sedentary and physical activity levels throughout the day (waking hours), and musculoskeletal discomfort. A within-subjects crossover study design was used. Participants used either a standing desk or traditional seated desk for 21 days before swapping desks for another 21 days. Accelerometry and musculoskeletal discomfort data were collected during the last seven days of each 21-day period. Mixed models were used to analyse accelerometry data. Zero-inflated regression models and logistic regression models were used to analyse discomfort data. Forty-seven male students (aged 10–11 years) participated in the study. Standing time was 21 min/school day higher (p < 0.001) and sitting time was 24 min/school day lower (p = 0.003) when standing desks were used. No significant differences were found in sedentary and physical activity time during waking hours between the standing desk and seated desk conditions. Students were less likely to report musculoskeletal discomfort in the neck, shoulder, elbows and lower back when using standing desks (OR 0.52–0.74). Standing desks significantly increased classroom standing time and decreased musculoskeletal discomfort reports but had no overall effect on daily physical activity levels. Schools should consider moving towards classrooms enabling a variety of postures to potentially improve the long-term health of children.
Understanding Educational and Psychosocial Factors Associated with Alcohol Use among Adolescents in Denmark; Implications for Health Literacy Interventions
Authors: König Claudia , Skriver Mette V. , Iburg Kim M. , Rowlands Gillian
Published: August 2018

Background. Alcohol misuse is a global public health priority, with a variation in prevalence and impact between countries. Alcohol misuse in adolescence is associated with adverse psychological, social and physical health. Adolescents in Denmark have higher alcohol consumption and problematic alcohol use than adolescents in other European countries. Associations between social determinants of health (SDH), psycho-social factors and alcohol consumption are complex and influenced by national context and cultures. This study explored these associations in Danish adolescents. Method. The European School Survey Project on Alcohol and Other Drugs (ESPAD) survey collects data on alcohol and substance use among 15–16-year-old European students. Data contributed by Danish students to the 2011 survey were analyzed. The outcomes of interest were alcohol consumption (any, intoxication and problematic). Health literacy was not directly measured, so self-described educational performance and knowledge about alcohol were used as proxies for health literacy. Exploratory factors thus included socio-demographic, health literacy-related (knowledge about alcohol, educational performance) and psycho-social factors, as well as expectancies of the effect of alcohol (both positive and negative) and self-reported health. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were undertaken. Results. Of the 2768 adolescents who participated in the survey, 2026 (80%) consumed alcohol during the last 30 days, 978 (38%) were intoxicated at least once during the last 30 days, and 1050 (41%) experienced at least one problem because of alcohol use during the last 12 months. Multivariable analysis showed that the factors associated with higher alcohol intake were gender, poor relationships with parents, expectancies of the impact of alcohol (both positive and negative), and the influence of peers and their alcohol use. Higher school performance was related to lower alcohol consumption. Low socio-demographic status was not associated with higher alcohol consumption. Conclusions. This study confirmed the high levels of alcohol intake, intoxication, and problem drinking amongst the Danish students in the survey and the complexity of the socio-demographic, psychosocial, health literacy-related, and environmental factors associated with alcohol behaviours. Approaches to addressing the issue of alcohol use in Danish adolescents will need to be multi-factorial, including supporting students to develop alcohol-related health literacy skills to enable them to make informed choices.
Variables Associated with Alcohol Consumption and Abstinence among Young Adults in Central China
Authors: Qian Ling , Newman Ian M. , Yuen Lok-wa , Shell Duane F. , Xu Jingdong
Published: August 2018

This paper presents a descriptive analysis of data gathered by personal interviews from a multistage random sample of 1640 residents aged 18–34 years in Wuhan, China. First, alcohol drinkers and abstainers were compared based on demographic, attitude, and belief variables. Next, the drinkers from the sample were classified into four groups based on frequency-quantity of alcohol use, and the frequency-quantity groups were compared on the same variables. For Abstainers versus Drinkers, we found no difference by age or gender in this sample. Married people and people with children were more likely to be abstainers. University-educated, currently-employed individuals in mid-level jobs were more likely to abstain from alcohol. Vocational/Technical graduates, people who were currently attending college, currently unemployed and never-employed individuals were more likely to be drinkers. Abstainers also responded with less-positive attitudes and beliefs about drinking and attached more importance to reasons for not drinking compared to drinkers. When the drinking frequency-quantity groups were compared, gender differences became significant: more high-quantity drinkers were women; however the guideline for quantity for women was >1 drink at a time compared to >2 drinks at a time for men. Quantity and frequency of drinking was significantly associated with having children, educational level, employment status, and type of occupation. Age, marital status, and being in college did not relate significantly with quantity and frequency of drinking alcohol. Attitudes and beliefs about drinking tended to be more positive among high-frequency and high-quantity drinkers. Drinkers in all frequency-quantity groups attached greater importance to social reasons for drinking compared to personal/psychological reasons for drinking. Drinkers in the lowest frequency-quantity group attached the most importance to reasons for not drinking. These findings confirmed that in China drinking plays an important role in socializing and celebrating, and that there are important differences between alcohol drinkers and abstainers and between frequency/quantity groups of drinkers. Western models of individualized motivation of behaviors may not accurately explain alcohol use in China. We believe the findings from this study suggest the need for more detailed studies of alcohol drinking and abstaining.
Beyond Reading and Understanding: Health Literacy as the Capacity to Act
Authors: Rademakers Jany , Heijmans Monique
Published: August 2018

Many health literacy interventions have a limited focus on functional/cognitive skills. In psychosocial models, the capacity to act however is seen as a major driver of behavioural change. This aspect is often lacking in health literacy concepts. In this study, we examine the impact of both aspects of health literacy (functional/cognitive and capacity to act) on specific healthcare outcomes (healthcare use, experiences with patient-centered care, shared-decision making, and self-management). In a sample of a national panel of people with a chronic disease (NPCD), questions about health literacy, patient activation, and outcomes were asked. The results indicated that 39.9% had limited HL levels and 36.9% had a low activation score. Combined, 22.7% of the sample scored low on both aspects, whereas 45.8% had adequate levels on both. Patients who score low on both use more healthcare and have less positive experiences with patient-centered care, shared decision making, and self-management. Patients who have adequate competency levels in both respects have the best outcomes. Both cognitive and non-cognitive aspects of health literacy are important, and they enhance each other. The capacity to act is especially important for the extent to which people feel able to self-manage.
The Short Term Musculoskeletal and Cognitive Effects of Prolonged Sitting During Office Computer Work
Authors: Baker Richelle , Coenen Pieter , Howie Erin , Williamson Ann , Straker Leon
Published: August 2018

Office workers are exposed to high levels of sedentary time. In addition to cardio-vascular and metabolic health risks, this sedentary time may have musculoskeletal and/or cognitive impacts on office workers. Participants (n = 20) undertook two hours of laboratory-based sitting computer work to investigate changes in discomfort and cognitive function (sustained attention and problem solving), along with muscle fatigue, movement and mental state. Over time, discomfort increased in all body areas (total body IRR [95% confidence interval]: 1.43 [1.33–1.53]) reaching clinically meaningful levels in the low back and hip/thigh/buttock areas. Creative problem solving errors increased (β = 0.25 [0.03–1.47]) while sustained attention did not change. There was no change in erector spinae, trapezius, rectus femoris, biceps femoris and external oblique median frequency or amplitude; low back angle changed towards less lordosis, pelvis movement increased, and mental state deteriorated. There were no substantial correlations between discomfort and cognitive function. The observed changes suggest prolonged sitting may have consequences for musculoskeletal discomfort and cognitive function and breaks to interrupt prolonged sitting are recommended.
Air Quality Context Information Model for Ubiquitous Public Access to Geographic Information
Authors: Hong Sungchul
Published: August 2018

The advance in Information Communication Technology (ICT) has contributed to global challenges of improving urban air quality. Ubiquitous computing technology enables citizens to easily access air quality information services without spatial or temporal limitations. Citizens are also encouraged to participate in air quality assessment and environmental governance. These societal and technical changes require a new paradigm to develop an air quality information system and its services. An air quality information system needs to integrate varied types of air quality information from heterogeneous data sources as well as allow citizens to express their concerns about air quality. Thus, a standardized manner is necessary to develop an air quality information system. In this regard, an air quality context information model was designed according to the Ubiquitous Public Access (UPA) context information model defined in the International Organization for Standard (ISO) 19154. For validation and verification purposes, the air quality context information model was implemented in a geographic information system (GIS)-based air quality information system. Implementation results showed that spatially relevant air quality information services were generated from the system, depending on the location and air quality situations near a specific user. Also, citizens can contribute air quality information at their current regions.
Spatiotemporal Changes in Xylan-1/Xyloglucan and Xyloglucan Xyloglucosyl Transferase (XTH-Xet5) as a Step-In of Ultrastructural Cell Wall Remodelling in Potato–Potato Virus Y (PVYNTN) Hypersensitive and Susceptible Reaction
Authors: Otulak-Kozieł Katarzyna , Kozieł Edmund , Bujarski Józef J.
Published: August 2018

One type of monitoring system in a plant cell is the cell wall, which intensively changes its structure during interaction with pathogen-stress factors. The wall plays a role as a dynamic and controlled structure, although it is not fully understood how relevant these modifications are to the molecular mechanisms during plant–virus interactions. In this work we localise the non-cellulosic polysaccharides such as xyloglucan, xylan (xylan-1) and xyloglucosyl transferase (XTH-Xet5), the enzyme that participates in the metabolism of xyloglucan. This provided us with information about the in situ distribution of the components of the hemicellulotic cell wall matrix in hypersensitive and susceptible potato–PVYNTN interactions. The loosening of the cell wall was accompanied by an increase in xylan depositions during susceptible interactions, whereas, during the hypersensitive response, when the cell wall was reinforced, the xylan content decreased. Moreover, the PVY inoculation significantly redirected XTH-Xet5 depositions, regardless of types of interactions, compared to mock-inoculated tissues. Furthermore, the immunogold localisation clearly revealed the domination of Xet5 in the cell wall and in vesicles in the susceptible host. In contrast, in the resistant host increased levels of Xet5 were observed in cytoplasm, in the cell wall and in the trans-Golgi network. These findings show that the hypersensitive reaction activated XTH-Xet5 in the areas of xyloglucan endo-transglycosylase (XET) synthesis, which was then actively transported to cytoplasm, cell wall and to vacuoles. Our results provide novel insight into cell wall reorganisation during PVYNTN infection as a response to biotic stress factors. These novel findings help us to understand the mechanisms of defence responses that are incorporated into the cell wall signalling network.
Distinct Carbon and Nitrogen Metabolism of Two Contrasting Poplar Species in Response to Different N Supply Levels
Authors: Meng Sen , Wang Shu , Quan Jine , Su Wanlong , Lian Conglong , Wang Dongli , Xia Xinli , Yin Weilun
Published: August 2018

Poplars have evolved various strategies to optimize acclimation responses to environmental conditions. However, how poplars balance growth and nitrogen deficiency remains to be elucidated. In the present study, changes in root development, carbon and nitrogen physiology, and the transcript abundance of associated genes were investigated in slow-growing Populus simonii (Ps) and fast-growing Populus euramericana (Pe) saplings treated with low, medium, and high nitrogen supply. The slow-growing Ps showed a flourishing system, higher δ15N, accelerated C export, lower N uptake and assimilation, and less sensitive transcriptional regulation in response to low N supply. The slow-growing Ps also had greater resistance to N deficiency due to the transport of photosynthate to the roots and the stimulation of root development, which allows survival. To support its rapid metabolism and growth, compared with the slow-growing Ps, the fast-growing Pe showed greater root development, C/N uptake and assimilation capacity, and more responsive transcriptional regulation with greater N supply. These data suggest that poplars can differentially manage C/N metabolism and photosynthate allocation under different N supply conditions.
cGMP Imaging in Brain Slices Reveals Brain Region-Specific Activity of NO-Sensitive Guanylyl Cyclases (NO-GCs) and NO-GC Stimulators
Authors: Peters Stefanie , Paolillo Michael , Mergia Evanthia , Koesling Doris , Kennel Lea , Schmidtko Achim , Russwurm Michael , Feil Robert
Published: August 2018

Impaired NO-cGMP signaling has been linked to several neurological disorders. NO-sensitive guanylyl cyclase (NO-GC), of which two isoforms—NO-GC1 and NO-GC2—are known, represents a promising drug target to increase cGMP in the brain. Drug-like small molecules have been discovered that work synergistically with NO to stimulate NO-GC activity. However, the effects of NO-GC stimulators in the brain are not well understood. In the present study, we used Förster/fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET)-based real-time imaging of cGMP in acute brain slices and primary neurons of cGMP sensor mice to comparatively assess the activity of two structurally different NO-GC stimulators, IWP-051 and BAY 41-2272, in the cerebellum, striatum and hippocampus. BAY 41-2272 potentiated an elevation of cGMP induced by the NO donor DEA/NO in all tested brain regions. Interestingly, IWP-051 potentiated DEA/NO-induced cGMP increases in the cerebellum and striatum, but not in the hippocampal CA1 area or primary hippocampal neurons. The brain-region-selective activity of IWP-051 suggested that it might act in a NO-GC isoform-selective manner. Results of mRNA in situ hybridization indicated that the cerebellum and striatum express NO-GC1 and NO-GC2, while the hippocampal CA1 area expresses mainly NO-GC2. IWP-051-potentiated DEA/NO-induced cGMP signals in the striatum of NO-GC2 knockout mice but was ineffective in the striatum of NO-GC1 knockout mice. These results indicate that IWP-051 preferentially stimulates NO-GC1 signaling in brain slices. Interestingly, no evidence for an isoform-specific effect of IWP-051 was observed when the cGMP-forming activity of whole brain homogenates was measured. This apparent discrepancy suggests that the method and conditions of cGMP measurement can influence results with NO-GC stimulators. Nevertheless, it is clear that NO-GC stimulators enhance cGMP signaling in the brain and should be further developed for the treatment of neurological diseases.
PGC-1α Protects RPE Cells of the Aging Retina against Oxidative Stress-Induced Degeneration through the Regulation of Senescence and Mitochondrial Quality Control. The Significance for AMD Pathogenesis
Authors: Kaarniranta Kai , Kajdanek Jakub , Morawiec Jan , Pawlowska Elzbieta , Blasiak Janusz
Published: August 2018

PGC-1α (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha) is a transcriptional coactivator of many genes involved in energy management and mitochondrial biogenesis. PGC-1α expression is associated with cellular senescence, organismal aging, and many age-related diseases, including AMD (age-related macular degeneration), an important global issue concerning vision loss. We and others have developed a model of AMD pathogenesis, in which stress-induced senescence of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells leads to AMD-related pathological changes. PGC-1α can decrease oxidative stress, a key factor of AMD pathogenesis related to senescence, through upregulation of antioxidant enzymes and DNA damage response. PGC-1α is an important regulator of VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor), which is targeted in the therapy of wet AMD, the most devastating form of AMD. Dysfunction of mitochondria induces cellular senescence associated with AMD pathogenesis. PGC-1α can improve mitochondrial biogenesis and negatively regulate senescence, although this function of PGC-1α in AMD needs further studies. Post-translational modifications of PGC-1α by AMPK (AMP kinase) and SIRT1 (sirtuin 1) are crucial for its activation and important in AMD pathogenesis.
Construction of Complex Network with Multiple Time Series Relevance
Authors: Huang Zongwen , Xu Lingyu , Wang Lei , Zhang Gaowei , Liu Yaya
Published: August 2018

Multivariate time series data, which comprise a set of ordered observations for multiple variables, are pervasively generated in weather conditions, traffic, financial stocks, etc. Therefore, it is of great significance to analyze the correlation between multiple time series. Financial stocks generate a significant amount of multivariate time series data that can be used to build networks that reflect market behavior. However, traditional commercial complex networks cannot fully utilize the multiple attributes of stocks and redundant filter relationships and reveal a more authentic financial stock market. We propose a fusion similarity of multiple time series and construct a threshold network with similarity. Furthermore, we define the connectivity efficiency to choose the best threshold, establishing a high connectivity efficiency network with the optimal network threshold. By searching the central node in the threshold network, we have found that the network center nodes constructed by our proposed method have a more comprehensive industry coverage than the traditional techniques to build the systems, and this also proves the superiority of this method.
Financial Development and Countries’ Production Efficiency: A Nonparametric Analysis
Authors: Tzeremes Nickolaos G.
Published: August 2018

This paper examines the effect of financial development on countries’ production efficiency levels. By applying a probabilistic framework it develops robust (Order-m) time-dependent conditional nonparametric frontier estimators in order to measure 87 countries’ production efficiency levels over the period 1970–2014. In order to examine the effect of time and domestic credit on countries’ production efficiency levels, a second-stage nonparametric econometric analysis is performed. Specifically, generalized additive models with tensor products and cubic spline penalties are applied in order to investigate the potential nonlinear behavior of financial development on countries’ production efficiency levels. The results reveal that the effect of financial development on production efficiency is nonlinear. Specifically, the effect is positive up to a certain credit level after which it becomes negative. Finally, the evidence suggests that the effect is influenced by a country’s financial system, institutional, and development characteristics.
Composite Cationic Exchange Membranes Prepared from Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) and Boronic Acid Copolymers for Alkaline Diffusion Dialysis
Authors: Liu Dandan , Wang Congwei , Miao Jibin , Xia Ru , Chen Peng , Cao Ming , Wu Bin , Qian Jiasheng
Published: August 2018

Boronic acid copolymers with a large number of functional groups were obtained via a free radical polymerization method. The corresponding composite membranes for alkaline diffusion dialysis (DD) were prepared by a crosslinking reaction between polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and the as-obtained boronic acid copolymers. The composite membranes possessed water uptake (WR) of 122.1–194.4%, ion exchange capacities (IECs) of 0.79–1.17 mmol/g, as well as both good mechanical stability (tensile strength of 40.7–49.9 MPa and elongation at break of 52.1–121.1%) and thermal stability. The as-prepared membranes were stable in 2 M NaOH solution at 65 °C with a swelling degree and mass loss of as-prepared membranes in the range of 305–368% and 9.2–22%, respectively. A NaOH/Na2WO4 mixture was used to investigate the separation properties of as-prepared membranes via the DD process. Results indicated that the dialysis coefficients of OH− (UOH) were in the range of 0.0079–0.0150 m/h, while the separation factors (S) were in the range of 26.6–53.2. The functional groups from boronic acid copolymer and –OH from PVA were demonstrated to promote the ion transport synergistically.
Facile Fabrication of Dumbbell-Like β-Bi2O3/Graphene Nanocomposites and Their Highly Efficient Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Yang Jun , Xie Taiping , Liu Chenglun , Xu Longjun
Published: August 2018

β-Bi2O3 decorated graphene nanosheets (β-Bi2O3/GN) were prepared by a facile solution mixing method. The crystal structure, surface morphology, and photo absorbance properties of the products were characterized by XRD, SEM, and UV-VIS diffuse reflection, respectively. Moreover, the effect of graphene content on photocatalytic activity was systematically investigated, and the results indicated that these composites possessed a high degradation rate of Rhodamine B (RhB), which was three times higher than that of bare β-Bi2O3 when graphene content was 1 wt %. This high photocatalytic activity was attributed predominantly to the presence of graphene, which served as an electron collector and transporter to efficiently lengthen the lifetime of the photogenerated charge carriers from β-Bi2O3.
Numerical Modelling of the Effect of Filler/Matrix Interfacial Strength on the Fracture of Cementitious Composites
Authors: Ouyang Xiaowei , Pan Zichao , Qian Zhiwei , Ma Yuwei , Ye Guang , Van Breugel Klaas
Published: August 2018

The interface between filler and hydration products can have a significant effect on the mechanical properties of the cement paste system. With different adhesion properties between filler and hydration products, the effect of microstructural features (size, shape, surface roughness), particle distribution and area fraction of filler on the fracture behavior of a blended cement paste system is supposed to be different, as well. In order to understand the effect of the microstructural features, particle distribution and area fraction of filler on the fracture behavior of a blended cement paste system with either strong or weak filler-matrix interface, microscale simulations with a lattice model are carried out. The results show that the strength of the filler-matrix interface plays a more important role than the microstructural features, particle distribution and area fraction of filler in the crack propagation and the strength of blended cement paste. The knowledge acquired here provides a clue, or direction, for improving the performance of existing fillers. To improve the performance of fillers in cement paste in terms of strength, priority should be given to improving the bond strength between filler particles and matrix, not to modifying the microstructural features (i.e., shape and surface roughness) of the filler.
Cutting Parameter Selection for Efficient and Sustainable Repair of Holes Made in Hybrid Mg–Ti–Mg Component Stacks by Dry Drilling Operations
Authors: Rubio Eva María , Villeta María , Valencia José Luis , Sáenz de Pipaón José Manuel
Published: August 2018

Drilling is one of the most common machining operations in the aeronautic and aerospace industries. For assembling parts, a large number of holes are usually drilled into the parts so that they can be joined later by rivets. As these holes are subjected to fatigue cycles, they have to be checked regularly for maintenance or repair, since small cracks or damage in its contour can quickly cause breakage of the part, which can have dangerous consequences. This paper focuses on finding the best combinations of cutting parameters to perform repair and maintenance operations of holes in stacked hybrid magnesium–titanium–magnesium components in an efficient, timely, and sustainable (without lubricants or coolants) manner, under dry drilling conditions. For the machining trials, experiments were designed and completed. A product of a full factorial 23 and a block of two factors (3 × 2) was used with surface roughness as the response variable measured as the mean roughness average. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to examine the results. A set of optimized tool and cutting conditions is presented for performing dry drilling repair operations.
New Thiazole Nortopsentin Analogues Inhibit Bacterial Biofilm Formation
Authors: Carbone Anna , Parrino Barbara , Cusimano Maria Grazia , Spanò Virginia , Montalbano Alessandra , Barraja Paola , Schillaci Domenico , Cirrincione Girolamo , Diana Patrizia , Cascioferro Stella
Published: August 2018

New thiazole nortopsentin analogues were conveniently synthesized and evaluated for their activity as inhibitors of biofilm formation of relevant Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogens. All compounds were able to interfere with the first step of biofilm formation in a dose-dependent manner, showing a selectivity against the staphylococcal strains. The most active derivatives elicited IC50 values against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, ranging from 0.40–2.03 µM. The new compounds showed a typical anti-virulence profile, being able to inhibit the biofilm formation without affecting the microbial growth in the planktonic form.
Individual Differences in Responsiveness to Acupuncture: An Exploratory Survey of Practitioner Opinion
Authors: Mayor David F. , McClure Lara S. , Clayton McClure J. Helgi
Published: August 2018

Background: Previous research has considered the impact of personal and situational factors on treatment responses. This article documents the first phase of a four-stage project on patient characteristics that may influence responsiveness to acupuncture treatment, reporting results from an exploratory practitioner survey. Methods: Acupuncture practitioners from various medical professions were recruited through professional organisations to complete an online survey about their demographics and attitudes as well as 60 questions on specific factors that might influence treatment. They gave categorical (“Yes”, “No”, and “Don’t know”) and free-text responses. Quantitative and qualitative (thematic) analyses were then conducted. Results: There were more affirmative than negative or uncertain responses overall. Certain characteristics, including ability to relax, exercise and diet, were most often considered relevant. Younger and male practitioners were more likely to respond negatively. Limited support was found for groupings between characteristics. Qualitative data provide explanatory depth. Response fatigue was evident over the course of the survey. Conclusions: Targeting and reminders may benefit uptake when conducting survey research. Practitioner characteristics influence their appreciation of patient characteristics. Factors consistently viewed as important included ability to relax, exercise and diet. Acupuncture practitioners may benefit from additional training in certain areas. Surveys may produce more informative results if reduced in length and complexity.
Disposable Optical Stretcher Fabricated by Microinjection Moulding
Authors: Trotta Gianluca , Martínez Vázquez Rebeca , Volpe Annalisa , Modica Francesco , Ancona Antonio , Fassi Irene , Osellame Roberto
Published: August 2018

Microinjection moulding combined with the use of removable inserts is one of the most promising manufacturing processes for microfluidic devices, such as lab-on-chip, that have the potential to revolutionize the healthcare and diagnosis systems. In this work, we have designed, fabricated and tested a compact and disposable plastic optical stretcher. To produce the mould inserts, two micro manufacturing technologies have been used. Micro electro discharge machining (µEDM) was used to reproduce the inverse of the capillary tube connection characterized by elevated aspect ratio. The high accuracy of femtosecond laser micromachining (FLM) was exploited to manufacture the insert with perfectly aligned microfluidic channels and fibre slots, facilitating the final composition of the optical manipulation device. The optical stretcher operation was tested using microbeads and red blood cells solutions. The prototype presented in this work demonstrates the feasibility of this approach, which should guarantee real mass production of ready-to-use lab-on-chip devices.
Novel High-Capacitance-Ratio MEMS Switch: Design, Analysis and Performance Verification
Authors: Han Ke , Guo Xubing , Smith Stewart , Deng Zhongliang , Li Wuyu
Published: August 2018

This paper proposes a novel high-capacitance-ratio radio frequency micro-electromechanical systems (RF MEMS) switch. The proposed RF MEMS mainly consists of serpentine flexure MEMS metallic beam, comprised of coplanar waveguide (CPW) transmission line, dielectric and metal-insulator-metal (MIM) floating metallic membrane. Comparing the proposed high-capacitance-ratio MEMS switch with the ones in available literature, an acceptable insertion loss insulation, acceptable response time and high capacitance ratio (383.8) are achieved.
Asymmetrical Induced Charge Electroosmotic Flow on a Herringbone Floating Electrode and Its Application in a Micromixer
Authors: Hu Qingming , Guo Jianhua , Cao Zhongliang , Jiang Hongyuan
Published: August 2018

Enhancing mixing is of significant importance in microfluidic devices characterized by laminar flows and low Reynolds numbers. An asymmetrical induced charge electroosmotic (ICEO) vortex pair generated on the herringbone floating electrode can disturb the interface of two-phase fluids and deliver the fluid transversely, which could be exploited to accomplish fluid mixing between two neighbouring fluids in a microscale system. Herein we present a micromixer based on an asymmetrical ICEO flow induced above the herringbone floating electrode array surface. We investigate the average transverse ICEO slip velocity on the Ridge/Vee/herringbone floating electrode and find that the microvortex generated on the herringbone electrode surface has good potential for mixing the miscible liquids in microfluidic systems. In addition, we explore the effect of applied frequencies and bulk conductivity on the slip velocity above the herringbone floating electrode surface. The high dependence of mixing performance on the floating electrode pair numbers is analysed simultaneously. Finally, we investigate systematically voltage intensity, applied frequencies, inlet fluid velocity and liquid conductivity on the mixing performance of the proposed device. The microfluidic micromixer put forward herein offers great opportunity for fluid mixing in the field of micro total analysis systems.
Micro Magnetic Field Sensors Manufactured Using a Standard 0.18-μm CMOS Process
Authors: Lin Yen-Nan , Dai Ching-Liang
Published: August 2018

Micro magnetic field (MMF) sensors developed employing complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) technology are investigated. The MMF sensors, which are a three-axis sensing type, include a magnetotransistor and four Hall elements. The magnetotransistor is utilized to detect the magnetic field (MF) in the x-axis and y-axis, and four Hall elements are used to sense MF in the z-axis. In addition to emitter, bases and collectors, additional collectors are added to the magnetotransistor. The additional collectors enhance bias current and carrier number, so that the sensor sensitivity is enlarged. The MMF sensor fabrication is easy because it does not require post-CMOS processing. Experiments depict that the MMF sensor sensitivity is 0.69 V/T in the x-axis MF and its sensitivity is 0.55 V/T in the y-axis MF.
An Evaluation of Factors Predicting Diet Quality among Cancer Patients
Authors: Kane Kathleen , Ilic Sanja , Paden Holly , Lustberg Maryam , Grenade Cassandra , Bhatt Aashish , Diaz Dayssy , Beery Anna , Hatsu Irene
Published: August 2018

A high diet quality is associated with a lower risk of cancer mortality. However, the predictive factors of diet quality among cancer patients are not well understood. This study determines the socio-demographic and disease-related factors that affect diet quality among cancer patients. Two hundred and forty-two cancer patients completed questionnaires assessing sociodemographic and disease-related characteristics. Diet quality was measured using the Healthy Eating Index 2010 (HEI). Independent sample t-tests and one-way ANOVA with post-hoc analysis using the Tukey HSD test were used to compare mean HEI scores across these characteristics. A regression model was used to determine factors that predicted diet quality. The overall HEI score among cancer patients was 61.59 (SD = 11.67). Patients with a high school degree or General Education Diploma (GED) or less had lower HEI scores (β = −4.03, p = 0.04; β = −7.77, p = 0.001, respectively) compared to those with college degrees. Additionally, homemakers had significantly higher HEI scores (β = 7.95, p = 0.008) compared to those who worked at least 40 hours per week. Also, individuals with some types of cancers (e.g., endometrial or uterine) had significantly higher HEI scores (β = 12.56, p = 0.002) than those with other cancers (e.g., head and neck). Our findings will help oncology healthcare providers identify and target cancer patients with specific demographic characteristics who are at increased risk for consuming poor-quality diets with much needed food resource interventions.
Anti-Cancer Natural Products and Their Bioactive Compounds Inducing ER Stress-Mediated Apoptosis: A Review
Authors: Kim Changmin , Kim Bonglee
Published: August 2018

Cancer is the second biggest cause of death worldwide. Despite a number of studies being conducted, the effective mechanism for treating cancer has not yet been fully understood. The tumor-microenvironment such as hypoxia, low nutrients could disturb function of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to maintain cellular homeostasis, ultimately leading to the accumulation of unfolded proteins in ER, so-called ER stress. The ER stress has a close relation with cancer. ER stress initiates unfolded protein response (UPR) to re-establish ER homeostasis as an adaptive pathway in cancer. However, persistent ER stress triggers the apoptotic pathway. Therefore, blocking the adaptive pathway of ER stress or facilitating the apoptotic pathway could be an anti-cancer strategy. Recently, natural products and their derivatives have been reported to have anti-cancer effects via ER stress. Here, we address mechanisms of ER stress-mediated apoptosis and highlight strategies for cancer therapy by utilizing ER stress. Furthermore, we summarize anti-cancer activity of the natural products via ER stress in six major types of cancers globally (lung, breast, colorectal, gastric, prostate and liver cancer). This review deepens the understanding of ER stress mechanisms in major cancers as well as the suppressive impact of natural products against cancers via ER stress.