bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oxidative Stress in Diabetes. A model of complex thinking applied in medicine
Authors: Stoian Anca Pantea , Mitrofan Grigorina , Colceag Florian , Suceveanu Andra Iulia , Hainarosie Razvan , Pituru Silviu , Diaconu Camelia Cristina , Timofte Daniel , Nitipir Cornelia , Poiana Catalina , Serafinceanu Cristian
Published: February 2020

Since their first mention, almost 60 years ago, there were a plethora of articles about oxidative stress and antioxidants, published in a wide range of journals (biochemistry, cell physiology, molecular biology or environmental biology). Also, in the last decade the definition of oxidative stress (OS) undergone different changes, and currently OS is seen as a disruption of redox signalling and control. This review aims to offer the perspective of Complexity Theory on antioxidants framework, and diabetes disease is taken as an example.
Estados Unidos y China
Authors: Guevara Mann Carlos
Published: February 2020

Ponencia presentada en el ciclo de conferencias sobre historia de Estados Unidos; Salón de Profesores “Manuel Octavio Sisnett”; Facultad de Humanidades, Universidad de Panamá; viernes, 18 de octubre de 2019.
The Properties of the Interstellar Medium of Galaxies across Time as Traced by the Neutral Atomic Carbon [C i]
Authors: Valentino Francesco , Magdis Georgios E. , Daddi Emanuele , Liu Daizhong , Aravena Manuel , Bournaud Frédéric , Cortzen Isabella , Gao Yu , Jin Shuowen , Juneau Stéphanie , Kartaltepe Jeyhan S. , Kokorev Vasily , Lee Min-Young , Madden Suzanne C. , Narayanan Desika , Popping Gergö , Puglisi Annagrazia
Published: February 2020

We report Atacama Large Millimeter Array observations of the neutral atomic carbon transitions [C i] and multiple CO lines in a sample of ∼30 main-sequence galaxies at

, including novel information on [C i]

and CO

for 7 of such normal objects. We complement our observations with a collection of >200 galaxies with coverage of similar transitions, spanning the z = 0–4 redshift interval and a variety of ambient conditions from local to high-redshift starbursts. We find systematic variations in the [C i]/IR and [C i]/high-J
upper (J
upper = 7) CO luminosity ratios among the various samples. We interpret these differences as increased dense molecular gas fractions and star formation efficiencies in the strongest high-redshift starbursts with respect to normal main-sequence galaxies. We further report constant 

/

ratios across the galaxy populations and redshifts, suggesting that gas temperatures T
exc traced by [C i] do not strongly vary. We find only a mild correlation with T
dust and that, generally, T
exc ≲ T
dust. We fit the line ratios with classical photodissociation region models, retrieving consistently larger densities and intensities of the UV radiation fields in submillimeter galaxies than in main-sequence and local objects. However, these simple models fall short in representing the complexity of a multiphase interstellar medium and should be treated with caution. Finally, we compare our observations with the Santa Cruz semi-analytical model of galaxy evolution, recently extended to simulate submillimeter emission. While we confirm the success in reproducing the CO lines, we find systematically larger [C i] luminosities at fixed IR luminosity than predicted theoretically. This highlights the necessity of improving our understanding of the mechanisms regulating the [C i] emission on galactic scales. We release our data compilation to the community.
Tracking Cosmic-Ray Spectral Variation during 2007–2018 Using Neutron Monitor Time-delay Measurements
Authors: Banglieng C. , Janthaloet H. , Ruffolo D. , Sáiz A. , Mitthumsiri W. , Muangha P. , Evenson P. , Nutaro T. , Pyle R. , Seunarine S. , Madsen J. , Mangeard P.-S. , Macatangay R.
Published: February 2020

The energy spectrum of Galactic cosmic-ray (GCR) ions at Earth varies with solar activity as these ions cross the heliosphere. Thus, this “solar modulation” of GCRs provides remote sensing of heliospheric conditions throughout the ∼11 yr sunspot cycle and ∼22 yr solar magnetic cycle. A neutron monitor (NM) is a stable ground-based detector that measures cosmic-ray rate variations above a geomagnetic or atmospheric cutoff rigidity with high precision (∼0.1%) over such timescales. Furthermore, we developed electronics and analysis techniques to indicate variations in the cosmic-ray spectral index using neutron time-delay data from a single station. Here we study solar modulation using neutron time-delay histograms from two high-altitude NM stations: (1) the Princess Sirindhorn Neutron Monitor at Doi Inthanon, Thailand, with the world’s highest vertical geomagnetic cutoff rigidity, 16.7 GV, from 2007 December to 2018 April; and (2) the South Pole NM, with an atmosphere-limited cutoff of ∼1 GV, from 2013 December to 2018 April. From these histograms, we extract the leader fraction L, i.e., inverse neutron multiplicity, as a proxy of a GCR spectral index above the cutoff. After correction for pressure and precipitable water vapor variations, we find that L roughly correlates with the count rate but also exhibits hysteresis, implying a change in spectral shape after a solar magnetic polarity reversal. Spectral variations due to Forbush decreases, 27 day variations, and a ground-level enhancement are also indicated. These methods enhance the high-precision GCR spectral information from the worldwide NM network and extend it to higher rigidity.
Vivo, ergo sum-sanus: communication studies facing Health as a construction of social knowledge
Authors: Bauer Thomas-A.
Published: February 2020

A constructive theoretical view of everyday topics (in this paper context, we mean health) allows us to spot on communication models and cultural features of important daily aspects. This paper holds health up as a model of knowledge inside cultural programme fields. By drawing on this theoretical and scientist communication context, the relationship between health and its development can be shown as a pattern of life, taking always into consideration social conditions.

Aunque la mayoría de los científicos compartan hoy el supuesto de que las ideas de salud y enfermedad son construcciones sociales relativas a estados físicos, psíquicos o sociales, sin embargo, todavía se mantienen planteamientos teóricos que, equivocadamente, conciben la salud o la enfermedad en relación con la comunicación. Este artículo busca fijar ambos conceptos –salud y enfermedad– en el marco de los estudios culturales, con la ayuda de la teoría de la observación y con referencias a una teoría sistémica constructivista.
Colour as a communicative element, an issue on its acceptance or rejection among young people
Authors: del-Olmo-Barbero Jesús
Published: February 2020

This colour research is set out as a formal element whose presence influences the acceptance or rejection of written communication. The awareness of these preferences allow us to lay out more attractive designs to catch young people. There is a certain consensus about the fact that the use of colour is an added value in the communicative strategy, but the tone selection is a task which is delegated to the designers and is more the result of intuition rather than study. This research which is part of a doctoral thesis on the management of colour in the print media, is about the preferences and rejection that young people show in the use of colour.

El estudio del color se plantea como un elemento formal cuya presencia influye en la aceptación o el rechazo de la comunicación escrita. El conocimiento de estas preferencias permite realizar diseños más atractivos que enganchen a los jóvenes. Existe cierto consenso sobre que el uso de color es un valor añadido en la estrategia comunicacional pero la selección de los tonos más adecuados es una tarea que se delega en los diseñadores y que obedece más a la intuición que al estudio. Esta investigación, que forma parte de una tesis doctoral sobre la gestión del color en los medios de comunicación impresos, se centra en las preferencias y el rechazo que manifiestan los jóvenes en el uso del color.
Televisión and viewers: the civil society is changing
Authors: Segura-Escobar Mariano
Published: February 2020

The author reflects about the relevance of media education for nowadays citizens. He thinks that Primary and Secondary school have to be the place for that relevant education, trying to make the youngters creative receivers of the media. From this point of view, the paper goes on making a revision of the instruments developed by the CNICE in order to make it possible.

A través de este artículo el autor quiere dar a conocer algunas de las estrategias, actividades y programas que, desde en Centro Nacional de Información y Comunicación Educativa (CNICE) se están llevando acabo en nuestro país, con el objetivo de educar para obtener lo que denomina «espectadores responsables» y, ya en un contexto más amplio, ser capaces de formar a los usuarios para que sean críticos con los medios de comunicación de masas.
Use of teaching resources for reading and writing in preschoolers in Venezuela
Authors: Garassini María-Elena , Cabero-Almenara Julio
Published: February 2020

This investigation allowed us to learn about the reality of educational centers and preschool teachers who work in the metropolitan area of Caracas, specifically in reference to the methods used by the teachers to promote literacy development and the use of different teaching practices to achieve the desired objectives in this area. The results point to a gradual change on the part of teachers as to the methodology employed to promote literacy development, ranging from the traditional use of basic reading programs and reading readiness exercises to the use of varied and functional literacy materials and activities. As to the type of resources employed, the use of printed materials prevails, with some incursions into the use of multimedia programs.

Esta investigación se planteó conocer la realidad de los centros educativos y de los docentes del nivel inicial que trabajan en el área metropolitana de Caracas en cuanto a la metodología empleada por los docentes para el desarrollo del lenguaje escrito y la incorporación de los diferentes medios didácticos. Los resultados encontrados apuntan a un cambio gradual de los docentes en la metodología empleada para el desarrollo del lenguaje escrito pasando del uso tradicional de libros de lectura seriados y ejercicios de rapidez en el uso de materiales y actividades de lectura y escritura variados y funcionales: predomina el uso de materiales impresos con algunas incursiones y apoyos en programas multimedia.
Faire de la recherche avec et pour des personnes ayant une déficience intellectuelle
Authors: Jeanne Yves , Fournier Jennifer , Couture Germain
Published: February 2020

Pour les personnes porteuses de déficience intellectuelle, l’accès à une vie sexuelle épanouissante et autodéterminée est l’objet de multiples entraves : manque d’information et/ou d’éducation à la sexualité, inaccessibilité des dispositifs dédiés à la santé sexuelle , risques accrus d’abus etc. Ces constats nous ont conduit à concevoir et à construire avec elles et pour elles un programme de formation qui leur soit accessible et qui les conduisent à devenir elles-mêmes formatrices de leurs pairs. Nous exposons ici les fondements et les modalités de travail retenues tout au long de l’élaboration et de la réalisation du programme, nous présentons quelques éléments originaux issus de la créativité des participants et discutons les modifications concernant leur réseau social et l’apparition de capabilités supplémentaires en matière de participation et de reconnaissance sociales apparues à l’issue de cette expérience.
L’évolution complexe des politiques sociales de solidarité
Authors: Bouquet Brigitte , Boul Gaëlle , Mouhoud Nabila
Published: February 2020

Les politiques sociales, ancrées dans le temps et l’espace, évoluant selon les périodes et les contextes, sont contingentes dans leurs fondements et variées dans leurs formes. La Sécurité sociale, pilier de la solidarité, met en œuvre une solidarité collective fondée sur la reconnaissance des droits et obligations de contribution. Les années 1960 et 1970, avec la crise économique, questionnent fortement ce modèle. Lors du tournant néolibéral des années 1980, il s’est agi de repenser l’État-providence pour le rendre plus efficace. Depuis les années 2000, l’engagement de l’État est revisité. Il s’intéresse au redéploiement de l’action politique à l’échelle des territoires départementaux, communaux, et s’interroge sur le rapport entre la multiplication des plans et leur spécificité au regard d’une action commune de solidarité. Ainsi, le changement d’échelle par les territoires crée à la fois un problème et l’opportunité d’une nouvelle gouvernance
L’accessibilité ou la solidarité reconfigurée ?
Authors: Ebersold Serge
Published: February 2020

Loin de se résumer aux enjeux liés au vieillissement de la population ou à l’inscription sociale des personnes reconnues handicapées, l’accessibilité constitue un « imaginaire social instituant » traversé par de nouvelles conceptions de la citoyenneté, de nouvelles approches de la solidarité et de nouvelles formes de normativité. Ce texte rapporte ce nouvel imaginaire instituant à la nouvelle économie des obligations entre la société et les individus promue par une société de la connaissance fondée sur la concrétisation de droits individuels pour, dans un second temps, mettre l’accent sur les nouveaux modes de solidarisation des rapports sociaux à l’œuvre. Il s’intéresse en troisième lieu aux nouvelles formes de normativité soutenues par un mode d’analyse assujettissant la cohésion sociale à l’accessibilité des organisations et à leur aptitude à être solidairement responsables des usagers et de leurs membres.
L’hébergement de réfugiés chez des particuliers. Liberté, humanité, solidarité
Authors: Rémy Élodie
Published: February 2020

Cet article traite de l’hébergement de réfugiés chez des particuliers, spécialement des liens qu’il crée et de la relation d’aide qui s’y construit, ainsi que de son impact sur les individus et la société. Il décrit comment cette forme spécifique de solidarité d’engagement, qui se concrétise par un accueil original réalisé au domicile de ménages non professionnels en faveur d’un public très vulnérable de personnes déracinées de force, peut conduire au prendre soin, malgré les ajustements à trouver et grâce au souci éthique d’équipes professionnelles et/ou bénévoles qui accompagnent les personnes et régulent les cohabitations. L’accent est mis sur la pluralité des niveaux et degrés d’intégration, laquelle ne repose pas exclusivement sur l’insertion socio-économique par l’emploi et le logement, mais également sur un sain attachement affectif entre personnes, facteur d’intégration et de bien « vivre ensemble »
A comparative study of cardio-metabolic responses to exercise between untrained non-athletic young Nigerian adults and trained soccer players
Authors: Dimkpa U. , Chidi E.C. , Unaeze B. , Besong E.E. , Umahi O.G. , Enemuo C.I. , Okafor E.C. , Okeke M.C.
Published: February 2020

We aimed at evaluating the cardiovascular and metabolic responses to sub-maximal exercise tests in untrained non-athletic young adults and comparing them with those of trained and more active soccer players. Forty healthy young adult males (20 untrained non-athletic undergraduates and 20 trained soccer players) aged 20-35 years participated in the study. The participants performed the exercise tests using a mechanically braked magnetic ergometer bicycle. Blood pressure and heart rate (HR) of participants were measured at rest and during the exercise test. The steady-state oxygen uptake (VO2SS) of subjects was estimated from a standardised sub-maximal VO2 equation. Data indicated significantly (P<0.05) higher absolute VO2SS, relative VO2SS, work rate, exercise oxygen pulse and cardiac output, but lower steady-state HR and %HRmax among the soccer players compared with the untrained individuals. No significant differences were observed in exercise systolic blood pressure, rate pressure product, resting HR reserve and %HR reserve between the two groups. Pearson’s partial correlation test indicted independent relationships between VO2SS (relative and absolute) and oxygen pulse, steady-state HR, percentage of HRmax, percentage of HR reserve, resting HR and working HR reserve respectively. The present study indicated greater cardio-metabolic responses to sub-maximal exercise and higher aerobic fitness in trained soccer players compared with the untrained non-athletic individuals.
Influence of Cap Thickness on Corneal Curvature and Corneal Biomechanics After SMILE: A Prospective, Contralateral Eye Study
Authors: Wu De , Liu Chunlei , Li Bin , Wang Diya , Fang Xuejun
Published: February 2020

PURPOSE:

To evaluate the impact of cap thickness for small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) on changes in corneal curvature and biomechanics.

METHODS:

One hundred eyes (50 patients) were enrolled in this prospective contralateral eye study. The difference in manifest refraction spherical equivalent (MRSE) in the same patient was less than 0.50 diopters. SMILE was performed with a randomized cap thickness of 110 µm in one eye and 140 µm in the other eye. MRSE, uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), and corneal curvature and biomechanics were evaluated. The anterior and posterior surfaces of the corneal curvature (mean keratometry [Km] values 2, 4, and 6 mm from the pupil center) were measured by Pentacam HR (Oculus Optikgeräte, Wetzlar, Germany) and changes in corneal biomechanics at 6 months postoperatively by Scheimpflug technology.

RESULTS:

There was no significant between-group difference in UDVA or MRSE postoperatively. Postoperative changes in Km at the anterior surface (ΔKm-ant) in the 4-mm zone were significantly higher in the 110-µm group than in the 140-µm group at 1 day and 1, 3, and 6 months postoperatively (
P
= .043, .045, .003, and .049, respectively); at 3 months, the ΔKm-ant in the 6-mm zone was higher in the 110-µm group (
P
= .035). The changes in second appla-nation time, deformation amplitude, and integrated radius were significantly less in the 110-µm group (
P
= .031, .049, and < .001, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS:

A thicker corneal cap caused less change in anterior surface curvature after SMILE for moderate or low myopia, with no significant difference in UDVA and MRSE.

[
J Refract Surg
. 2020;36(2):82–88.]
An Alternative Wavefront Reconstruction Method for Human Eyes
Authors: Gatinel Damien , Rampat Radhika , Dumas Laurent , Malet Jacques
Published: February 2020

PURPOSE:

To expand upon and clinically demonstrate the results of a new polynomial decomposition method.

METHODS:

To discuss the theoretical considerations comparing the qualitative and quantitative information produced by the Zernike coefficients and a new polynomial decomposition basis, in a comparative series of theoretical and clinical case studies.

RESULTS:

These comparative studies validate the novel polynomial basis that decomposes the wavefront, with clear segregation of the higher and lower aberrations. There is no artifactual reduction of some of the higher order aberration coefficients, providing a more clinically relevant retinal image quality prediction.

CONCLUSIONS:

Some of the inherent limitations of the Zernike polynomials in clinical ophthalmic applications can be solved by a novel set of polynomials forming an alternative higher order basis. The new basis provides a clear separation between modes containing lower order terms versus higher order terms and offers clinicians a more clinically realistic wavefront analysis.

[
J Refract Surg
. 2020;36(2):74–81.]
Web-Based Child Sexual Exploitation
Authors: Wallace Lacey Nicole
Published: February 2020

Use of social media and other technologies like phone- and computer-based cameras is widespread among both youth and young adults in the U.S. Yet, these technologies also present opportunities for child victimization and exploitation. Unlike forms of exploitation that occur in a face-to-face context, these crimes are difficult to detect and more so to prosecute. Offenders and victims may not even reside in the same country. This chapter defines online child sexual exploitation, describes the law regarding these activities, details what is known about victims and offenders, and highlights current efforts towards prevention and intervention. Challenges in detection and prosecution are also discussed.
Internet “Death Groups” in the Online Culture
Authors: Baeva Liudmila Vladimirovna
Published: February 2020

The conditions of online culture cause a shift in the following crucial spheres of human life: communication, creativity, leisure, and art. This creates a complex of life-threatening and human safety problems, including the existential. The object of the study is “death groups” (“Blue whale,” “Wake me up at 4.20,” and others) that have become popular in social networks in recent years calling on young people to commit suicide. Within the Eastern European countries, such communities became numerous after 2015, took many lives, and caused a number of lawsuits. This article presents the characteristics of new existential problems in the conditions of e-culture, including those related to virtual escapism and adolescent suicide, through participation in “death groups,” and analyzes the mechanism of how the youth shifts the values of reality and game, life, and death. Hence, the greatest risks leading to escapism, asocial life, suicidal moods, and actions have been allocated.
Crime Hidden in Email Spam
Authors: Yu Szde
Published: February 2020

Email spam is one of the most overlooked crimes. Most people and law enforcement agencies dismiss it as a nuisance and do not deem it worthwhile to devote too many resources to reporting or investigating it. Very few researchers would see email spam as a research topic worth exploring, either. However, email spam can be and has become an ideal disguise for criminal activities. Aside from the fact that email spam itself is a crime, this article intends to introduce readers to the ideas regarding how spam may be linked to other crimes, including scam, fraud, illicit drug sales, electronic fencing, sex crimes, and malware. Moreover, email spam can be used to facilitate covert communication among criminals and provide guidance for entering the dark web without drawing too much attention from the authorities.
The Challenges and Future of E-Wallet
Authors: Chea Chiam Chooi
Published: February 2020

This article covers the introduction of e-wallet, e-wallet key takeaways, e-wallet features, types of e-wallets and its perks, consumers' preferred method of payment, worldwide payment platforms, challenges of e-wallets, the annual payment transactions using e-wallet, the intention to accept the digital payment methods by retailers, the future of e-wallets, solutions and recommendations of e-wallets, and lastly, conclusion and future research on e-wallets. Most of the players in the banking industry foresee that e-wallets will take over the use of cash and credit/debit cards (plastics) by consumers quickly. However, e-wallets have not fully taken off and consumers' reception and interest seem lukewarm. This shows that the concept of e-wallets still has a long way to go. What are the reasons for this phenomenon?
Understanding the Relationship Between Cybercrime and Human Behavior Through Criminological Theories and Social Networking Sites
Authors: Mohammed Anne-Marie , Benson Vladlena , Saridakis George
Published: February 2020

This article seeks to gain a better understanding of how to address some of the challenges in the digital world. In order to do this, the authors presented some of the emerging issues in the psychology of human behavior and the ever changing nature of cyber threats in the digital world. They reviewed both the theories of crime (i.e., self-control and rational choice theories) and the empirical studies that have examined user behavior on social networking sites leading to victimization. Importantly, they mentioned the role of social engineering as the entry point of many of these sophisticated attacks. They went on to examine the relevance of the human element as the starting point of implementing cyber security programs in organizations as well as securing individual online behavior. Furthermore, issues that are associated with the emerging trends in human behavior research as well as ethics were also discussed. They acknowledge that much more academic attention is needed in this area to avoid the exponential growth of future information breaches.
Modern Blue Pills and Red Pills
Authors: Algawi Asaf , Kiperberg Michael , Leon Roee Shimon , Resh Amit , Zaidenberg Nezer Jacob
Published: February 2020

This article presents the concept of blue pill, a stealth hypervisor-based rootkit, that was introduced by Joanna Rutkowska in 2006. The blue pill is a malicious thin hypervisor-based rootkit that takes control of the victim machine. Furthermore, as the blue pill does not run under the operating system context, the blue pill is very difficult to detect easily. The red pill is the competing concept (i.e., a forensics software that runs on the inspected machine and detects the existence of malicious hypervisor or blue pill). The concept of attestation of a host ensuring that no hypervisor is running was first introduced by Kennel and Jamieson in 2002. Modern advances in hypervisor technology and hardware-assisted virtualization enables more stealth and detection methods. This article presents all the recent innovation in stealth blue pills and forensics red pills.
Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon Compounds as Emerging Water Pollutants
Authors: Bhuyan Krishna , Giri Anirudha
Published: February 2020

Aquatic ecosystems are pivotal resources that nurture diverse life forms apart from providing different ecosystem services. Global pollution, directly and indirectly, depletes the quality and standards of these resources and hampers the animals residing there. The incomplete combustion of all sorts of organic substances found in nature produces and release an emerging group of contaminants known as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). There are over a hundred different kinds of PAHs known and 16 amongst them are regarded as priority pollutants including phenanthrene (PHE). PHE is abundantly found in the aquatic environment and poses a higher risk to animals. It causes a vast array of toxicities in aquatic animals including genotoxicity, cardiotoxicity, transgenerational toxicity, neurotoxicity, developmental toxicity, and potentially induces oxidative stress and behavioral alterations. However, many areas of PHE toxicity in aquatic organisms are yet to be properly understood and management measures are yet to be initiated.
Semiconductor Nanocomposites-Based Photoelectrochemical Aptamer Sensors for Pharmaceuticals Detection
Authors: Okoth Kevin Otieno , Wanjau Ruth Nduta , Odago Maurice Otieno
Published: February 2020

Development of sensors for pharmaceuticals has become very essential. This is due to the need to monitor the release and toxicological effects of pharmaceuticals into the environment. In this work, the authors explored bismuth sulphide (Bi2S3) nanorods and graphene as photoactive material for constructing a photoelectrochemical (PEC) aptasensor for sulfadimethoxine (SDM) detection, exhibiting high sensitivity, stability, and reproducibility. In another experiment, Mo-doped BiVO4 (Mo-BiVO4) and graphene nanocomposites were explored as photoactive material to construct a visible light-driven photoelectrochemical biosensor. Graphene in the nanocomposites was very essential in immobilizing streptomycin aptamer through π-π stacking interaction. Finally, graphene doped CdS (GR-CdS) synthesized via one pot hydrothermal technique and gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) were employed to construct a PEC aptasensor for diclofenac (DCF).
Fabrication of Metal Oxide-Biopolymer Nanocomposite for Water Defluoridation
Authors: Andala Dickson Mubera , Mobegi Erick , Nawiri Mildred , Otieno Geoffrey
Published: February 2020

Fluoride contamination in groundwater affects about 150 million people worldwide. In this study, the authors focused on synthesizing biopolymer metal oxide nanocomposite for fluoride removal. Nanocomposite material was done using SEM. As(V), Al, Ti, Zr, and Fe water samples were analysed by ICP-MS (inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry). Fluoride level was determined using the standard method – Ion-Selective Electrode method. Preliminary results indicate arsenic (V) removal was below the 10 ppb and fluoride less than 1.5 ppm as prescribed by WHO. The removal efficiency was after 60-70 minutes with recyclability of 11 cycles. The nanocomposite worked well in all pH ranges 6.5-8.5. A filter cartridge biopolymer metal oxide nanocomposite constituting of template aluminium homogenized in the aggregated network of chitosan was developed as an adsorbent for fluoride from the water with better adsorption limit.
Talking About Rare Diseases
Authors: Oliveira Sonia M. Rodrigues
Published: February 2020

Originally, rare diseases and orphan diseases were not synonyms. Rare diseases became known as orphan diseases because pharmaceutical companies were not interested in developing treatments for them. The Orphan Drug Act (USA) used financial incentives for orphan drug development. Herewith, a definition for rare disease was also established. This differs slightly across countries. Some rare diseases respond to drugs that are not orphan drugs. Orphan diseases refer to neglected diseases and even common disorders as endometrial cancer and infantile diabetes. Nonetheless, nowadays very often rare and orphan are used as synonyms. The causes for rare diseases are very diverse. The majority are thought to be genetic. Most lack proper diagnosis, treatment, or known therapeutic targets. However, rare disease patients account for a huge proportion of the health burden. This chapter discusses rare (and orphan) diseases, what has been reported about them, and how they appear to the general public. The different categories of rare diseases are introduced.
Representation of Patients With Rare Diseases in Spanish Media
Authors: Villafranca Paloma López
Published: February 2020

There are more than 360 associations of patients with rare diseases in Spain that strive for visibility to obtain funding and encourage clinical pathologies. The Spanish Year of Rare Diseases has been a considerable effort to be part of media agenda since 2013 and a “collective voice” throughout the media has been encouraged with the international initiatives devoted to the cause. Over the past years, representation of patients with rare diseases in Spanish media has been very superficial, despite the renewed interest during the Spanish Year of Rare Diseases. Certain cases as “Paco Sanz” or “Los Padres de la Pequeña Nadia” have negatively affected this representation by using the disease to pursue economic benefit. This chapter reports on the representation of rare diseases through Spanish media and the way it evolved in the last 6 years. The findings highlight the effort that has been made by patient advocacy groups with rare diseases and their relatives and caregivers, who have been recognized and proactive to get the treatment and medication needed.
Structures, Practices, and Policies to Support Community-Engaged Scholarship at the Community College
Authors: Bodine Al-Sharif Mary Ann , García Hugo
Published: February 2020

This chapter illuminates the ways in which community colleges can develop and enhance their community-engaged scholarship (CES) to ensure they meet the needs of the local communities they are a part of. Indeed, community-engaged scholarship (CES) has been seen as a vehicle to support local communities by creating partnerships with postsecondary institutions to ensure research is conducted in a way that is mutually beneficial. The authors first explore the large corpus of literature regarding undergraduate research and then present a select number of community colleges that have been successful in incorporating undergraduate research projects. They then present how CES has been defined and how it has been implemented within a higher education context. They then proceed to introduce a CES conceptual model and explain how community colleges can utilize the model to support the institutionalization of CES programs. They conclude with recommendations for future research.
A Genre-Based Study of Algerian EFL Writers' Academic Texts
Authors: Drid Touria
Published: February 2020

To disseminate academic knowledge, scholars publish their research in the form of journal articles, whose content is sketched in an abstract with a conventional rhetorical organization. This chapter reports a study that aims to examine and assess the organization of research article abstracts in terms of move units. The move structure of 42 abstracts of English research papers written by Algerian researchers and published in one of the Algerian language journals was scrutinized. The study follows Hyland's analytic model, comprising five rhetorical moves: introduction, purpose, method, product, and conclusion. The findings of the study indicate that the writers predominantly employ the pattern introduction-purpose, with some inconsistencies in using the other moves. On the basis of identifying the existing deviations from the predictable generic arrangement of abstracts, the importance of raising genre awareness among EFL writers has been highlighted as a means to enhance the quality of published discourse.
Wikipedia Practices, Quick Facts, and Plagiarism in Higher Education
Authors: Premat Christophe Emmanuel
Published: February 2020

Plagiarism has been a sensitive issue in higher education in Sweden, as many cases were reported during the last years. It depends partly on resources that are devoted to have efficient detection systems, but it is deeply related to how students are prepared for academic exercises. Many freshmen and sophomores are not familiar with academic requirements and can get used to plagiarizing instead of developing critical thinking. The first step in academic writing is to present guidelines to search relevant sources. The chapter is based on an experimentation on sources made at the University of Stockholm with students enrolled in a course in “Culture and Society in France.” By inviting students to work with second hand sources such as Wikipedia and evaluate their validity, it is possible to analyze their learning strategies. The result of the study shows a paradox: if students acknowledge that Wikipedia sources are inappropriate in an academic context, they confirm that they use these sources to have access to other references. A reflection on the quick access to sources is then necessary.
Embedding Virtual Reality and Artificial Intelligence in Integrated Marketing Communications
Authors: Ferreira Mónica , Fino Fábia Patrícia Fidalgo
Published: February 2020

Emerging technologies like Virtual Reality (VR) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) have been receiving much attention in the Marketing field as a new way to attract customers and enrich their experiences with brands. This chapter investigates the current state of these technologies in Business and discusses how the technologies are connected to the Integrated marketing communications. The chapter suggests several managerial implications on how to apply these technologies in an integrated marketing communication (IMC) plan. The conceptualization of VR and AI, further research, suggestions for further reading, Glossary of Virtual Reality Experiences, and IMC definitions over time are also provided.
Technology and Teachers in the Preschool Period
Authors: Aral Neriman , Kadan Gül
Published: February 2020

The teachers' use of technology, as well as their behaviors and attitudes, become important as they are second only to the parents in shaping children's futures. Although the teachers' attitudes and behaviors are important in every stage of the children, they are crucial in the preschool period. It is even more important for the teachers who have this awareness to shape and construct their behaviors and attitudes accordingly in order to invest in a better future. With this in mind, the aim is to explain the technology in the preschool period, the levels of teachers' use of technology, their views on technology, and their responsibilities in the use of technology in the preschool period.
Parallel Corpora in EFL Writing Classrooms
Authors: Yahya Noorchaya , Alotaibi Hind , El-Dakhs Dina Abdel Salam
Published: February 2020

This study reveals the impact of using parallel corpora on EFL students' writing, and how students perceive it. Female undergraduates (n=46) in an EFL writing course in Saudi Arabia were divided randomly into experimental and control groups taught by the same instructor, using the same materials. Students in the experimental group were introduced to three parallel corpora and encouraged to use them in their writing. Tests at the beginning of the semester showed no difference in English proficiency or writing ability between groups. Over the semester, students in both groups also wrote 5 writing assignments and took three writing exams. To examine students' perceptions of parallel corpora, students in the experimental group were asked to write a self-evaluation report and answer an evaluation questionnaire. Quantitative and qualitative analysis showed significant improvement in their writing but no significant difference between groups. However, students' perception of parallel corpora was generally positive.
Sex-Related Differences in Sudomotor Function in Healthy Early Twenties Focused on Activated Sweat Gland Density
Authors: Park Tae-Hwan , Lee Jeong-Beom , Lee Hye-Jin , Yun Bahda
Published: February 2020

The purpose of this study was to quantitatively assess the difference in sudomotor function between healthy males and females in their early twenties by measuring skin surface area and activated sweat gland density (ASGD). The quantitative sudomotor axon reflex test (QSART), a method for evaluating autonomic nervous system activity, was used for quantification. In QSART, the sweat glands are activated directly or indirectly by the subcutaneous application of neurotransmitters, such as acetylcholine, through iontophoresis. This series of mechanisms is called the sudomotor axon reflex. After recording age, height, weight, and several measurements of the forearm, QSART was performed on 101 healthy controls aged 21–26 years to measure ASGD. The mean temperature and humidity on the measurement days were 11.4°C and 58.1% on May 3, 2018, and 14.7°C and 70.3% on May 10, 2018. The result of independent sample t-test showed higher ASGD in women (P < 0.05). The body surface area and the surface area of the forearms were higher in men (P < 0.001), but the number of activated sweat glands was not significantly different according to sex. The activated sweat gland counts of the body and forearms were analyzed through linear regression by age for males and females. Except for the activated sweat gland count of the male body, the analysis showed a tendency to decrease with increasing age but was not statistically significant in any case (P > 0.05). Showing insufficient coefficient of determination (R
2), multiple regression analyses with sex and ages did not correct this insignificance between age and activated sweat gland count.
Acute and Chronic Effects of Aerobic Exercise on Serum Irisin, Adropin, and Cholesterol Levels in the Winter Season
Authors: Özbay Serhat , Ulupınar Süleyman , Şebin Engin , Altınkaynak Konca
Published: February 2020

The aim of this study is to investigate the acute and chronic effects of aerobic training performed indoors and outdoors on irisin, adropin, and cholesterol levels in winter. Thirty-two healthy males participated in this study. Participants were divided into two groups: outdoor group (n = 16) and indoor group (n = 16). They then performed 40-min aerobic running exercises 4 days/week for 18 weeks. The outdoor group trained at −5°C–5°C environmental temperature, while the indoor group trained at 21°C–25°C. Blood samples were collected before and after the 18-week training period and immediately after the first training. The results showed that single aerobic exercise induced minimal increase in serum irisin concentrations in both groups. In addition, irisin levels did not change in the outdoor group but significantly decreased in the indoor group after the 18-week training period. Aerobic exercise had no acute or chronic effects on serum adropin levels in the indoor group. However, the aerobic training caused a decrease in adropin levels chronically, but there was no acute effect after single aerobic exercise in the outdoor group. Furthermore, there was no acute effect on high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and total cholesterol after single aerobic exercise in both groups. However, after the 18-week training period, there was a significant increase in HDL-C levels in both groups. Moreover, the increase in HDL-C in the outdoor group was higher than in the indoor group. Thus, this study provides evidence for the beneficial chronic effects of aerobic exercise and cold on HDL-C levels as well as the beneficial acute effects on irisin concentrations.
Job Satisfaction among Library Personnel in Public Universities in South-West Nigeria
Authors: Opeke Rosaline , Ikonne Chinyere Nkechi , Adewoyin Omobola Olufunke
Published: February 2020

Job satisfaction is an indispensable factor for the success of every organization. It is a general concern to both employers and employees in organizations including universities libraries in Nigeria. Lack of job satisfaction could lead to poor service delivery in university libraries. Therefore, this study investigated job satisfaction among library personnel in public universities in South-West, Nigeria. The study was based on Herzberg two-factor theory. The dimensions of job satisfaction that the study covered included salary, job security, supervision, relationship with co-workers, promotion and work itself. Survey research design was adopted for the study. Data was collected through a structured questionnaire from the professional and paraprofessional staff in university libraries in South-West, Nigeria. As a result of the manageable size of the library personnel, total enumeration was used. Thus, the population was made up of 346 professionals and paraprofessionals staff from the federal and state universities. A response rate of 76.6 was obtained. The collected data was analyzed using descriptive statistics such as mean and standard deviation. Findings revealed that the level of job satisfaction of the respondents was high. Contributing to this was satisfaction with job security, relationship with co-workers, work itself and recognition. The results also revealed although the level of job satisfaction of the respondents was high, they were not satisfied with their salary. Out of all the dimensions of job satisfaction, satisfaction with salary had the lowest mean. Thus, the study recommends that the problem of low salary should be tackled in order to improve the level of satisfaction with salary among library personnel.Keywords: Job Satisfaction, Library Personnel, Public Universities, South-West, Nigeria
The Arctic picoeukaryote Micromonas pusilla benefits from ocean acidification under constant and dynamic light
Authors: White Emily , Hoppe Clara J. M. , Rost Björn
Published: February 2020

Abstract. Compared to the rest of the globe, the Arctic Ocean is affected
disproportionately by climate change. Despite these fast environmental
changes, we currently know little about the effects of ocean acidification
(OA) on marine key species in this area. Moreover, the existing studies
typically test the effects of OA under constant, hence artificial, light
fields. In this study, the abundant Arctic picoeukaryote Micromonas pusilla was acclimated to
current (400 µatm) and future (1000 µatm) pCO2 levels under a
constant as well as a dynamic light, simulating more realistic light fields as
experienced in the upper mixed layer. To describe and understand the
responses to these drivers, growth, particulate organic carbon (POC)
production, elemental composition, photophysiology and reactive oxygen
species (ROS) production were analysed. M. pusilla was able to benefit from OA on
various scales, ranging from an increase in growth rates to enhanced
photosynthetic capacity, irrespective of the light regime. These beneficial
effects were, however, not reflected in the POC production rates, which can
be explained by energy partitioning towards cell division rather than
biomass build-up. In the dynamic light regime, M. pusilla was able to optimize its
photophysiology for effective light usage during both low- and high-light
periods. This photoacclimative response, which was achieved by modifications
to photosystem II (PSII), imposed high metabolic costs leading to a
reduction in growth and POC production rates when compared to constant
light. There were no significant interactions observed between dynamic light
and OA, indicating that M. pusilla is able to maintain effective photoacclimation
without increased photoinactivation under high pCO2. Based on these
findings, M. pusilla is likely to cope well with future conditions in the Arctic
Ocean.
Past African dust inputs in the western Mediterranean area controlled by the complex interaction between the Intertropical Convergence Zone, the North Atlantic Oscillation, and total solar irradiance
Authors: Sabatier Pierre , Nicolle Marie , Piot Christine , Colin Christophe , Debret Maxime , Swingedouw Didier , Perrette Yves , Bellingery Marie-Charlotte , Chazeau Benjamin , Develle Anne-Lise , Leblanc Maxime , Skonieczny Charlotte , Copard Yoann , Reyss Jean-Louis , Malet Emmanuel , Jouffroy-Bapicot Isabelle , Kelner Maëlle , Poulenard Jérôme , Didier Julien , Arnaud Fabien , Vannière Boris
Published: February 2020

Abstract. North Africa is the largest source of mineral dust on Earth, which
has multiple impacts on the climate system; however, our understanding of
decadal to centennial changes in African dust emissions over the last few
millenniums is limited. Here, we present a high-resolution multiproxy
analysis of sediment core from high-elevation Lake Bastani, on the island of Corsica, to reconstruct past African dust inputs to the western Mediterranean
area over the last 3150 cal BP. Clay mineralogy with palygorskite and
a clay ratio associated with geochemical data allow us to determine that
terrigenous fluxes are almost exclusively related to atmospheric dust
deposition from the western Sahara and Sahel areas over this period. High-resolution geochemical contents provide a reliable proxy for Saharan dust
inputs with long-term (millennial) to short-term (centennial) variations.
Millennial variations have been correlated with the long-term southward
migration of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), with an increase in
dust input since 1070 cal BP. This correlation suggests a strong link
with the ITCZ and could reflect the increased availability of dust sources to be
mobilized with an increase in wind and a decrease in precipitation over western
and North Africa. For centennial to decadal variations, wavelet analyses
show that since 1070 cal BP, the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) has been the main
climatic forcing, with an increase in Saharan dust input during the positive
phase, as suggested by previous studies over the last decades. However, when
the ITCZ is in a northern position, before 1070 cal BP, wavelet analyses
indicate that total solar irradiance (TSI) is the main forcing factor, with
an increase in African dust input during low TSI. With climate reanalysis
over the instrumental era, during low TSI we observe a significant negative
anomaly in pressure over Africa, which is known to increase the dust
transport. These two climatic forcing factors (NAO, TSI) modulate Saharan
dust inputs to the Mediterranean area at a centennial timescale through
changes in wind and transport pathways.