bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Survival Analysis in Single N2 Station Lung Adenocarcinoma: The Prognostic Role of Involved Lymph Nodes and Adjuvant Therapy
Authors: Chiappetta Marco , Lococo Filippo , Leuzzi Giovanni , Sperduti Isabella , Bria Emilio , Petracca Ciavarella Leonardo , Mucilli Felice , Filosso Pier Luigi , Ratto Giovannibattista , Spaggiari Lorenzo , Facciolo Francesco , Margaritora Stefano
Published: March 2021

Background: Prognostic factors in patients with single mediastinal station (sN2) involvement continues to be a debated issue. Methods: Data on 213 adenocarcinoma patients with sN2 involvement and who had undergone complete anatomical lung resection and lymphadenectomy, were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical and pathological characteristics together with adjuvant therapy (AD) and node (N) status classifications (number of resected nodes (#RN), number of metastatic nodes (#MN), and node ratio (#MN/#RN = NR) were analyzed. Results: Univariable analysis confirmed that age (0.009), #MN (0.009), NR (0.003), #N1 involved stations (p = 0.003), and skip metastases (p = 0.005) were related to overall survival (OS). Multivariable analysis confirmed, as independent prognostic factors, age <66 years and NR with a three-year OS (3YOS) of 78.7% in NR < 10% vs. 46.6% in NR > 10%. In skip metastases, NR (HR 2.734, 95% CI 1.417–5.277, p = 0.003) and pT stage (HR2.136, 95% CI 1.001–4.557, p = 0.050) were confirmed as independent prognostic factors. AD did not influence the OS of patients with singular positive lymph nodes (p = 0.41), while in patients with multiple lymph nodes and AD, a significantly better 3YOS was demonstrated, i.e., 49.1% vs. 30% (p = 0.004). In patients with N2 + N1 involvement, age (p = 0.002) and AD (p = 0.022) were favorable prognostic factors. Conclusions: Adenocarcinoma patients with single N2 station involvement had a favorable outcome in the case of skip metastases and low NR. Adjuvant therapy improves survival with multiple nodal involvement, while its role in single node involvement should be clarified.
Future Prospects of Colorectal Cancer Screening: Characterizing Interval Cancers
Authors: Ibáñez-Sanz Gemma , Sanz-Pamplona Rebeca , Garcia Montse , on behalf of the MSIC-SC Research Group
Published: March 2021

Tumors that are not detected by screening tests are known as interval cancers and are diagnosed clinically after a negative result in the screening episode but before the next screening invitation. Clinical characteristics associated with interval colorectal cancers have been studied, but few molecular data are available that describe interval colorectal cancers. A better understanding of the clinical and biological characteristics associated with interval colorectal cancer may provide new insights into how to prevent this disease more effectively. This review aimed to summarize the current literature concerning interval colorectal cancer and its epidemiological, clinical, and molecular features.
Possible Relevance of Soluble Luteinizing Hormone Receptor during Development and Adulthood in Boys and Men
Authors: Juel Mortensen Li , Lorenzen Mette , Jørgensen Anne , Albrethsen Jakob , Jørgensen Niels , Møller Søren , Andersson Anna-Maria , Juul Anders , Blomberg Jensen Martin
Published: March 2021

Luteinizing hormone (LH) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) are agonists for the luteinizing hormone receptor (LHCGR) which regulates male reproductive function. LHCGR may be released into body fluids. We wish to determine whether soluble LHCGR is a marker for gonadal function. Cross-sectional, longitudinal, and intervention studies on 195 healthy boys and men and 396 men with infertility, anorchia, or Klinefelter Syndrome (KS) were used to correlate LHCGR measured in serum, seminal fluid, urine, and hepatic/renal artery and vein with gonadal function. LHCGR was determined in fluids from in vitro and in vivo models of human testicular tissue and cell lines, xenograft mouse models, and human fetal kidney and adrenal glands. Western blot showed LHCGR fragments in serum and gonadal tissue of similar size using three different antibodies. The LHCGR-ELISA had no species cross-reactivity or unspecific reaction in mouse serum even after human xenografting. Instead, sLHCGR was released into the media after the culture of a human fetal kidney and adrenal glands. Serum sLHCGR decreased markedly during puberty in healthy boys (p = 0.0001). In healthy men, serum sLHCGR was inversely associated with the Inhibin B/FSH ratio (β −0.004, p = 0.027). In infertile men, seminal fluid sLHCGR was inversely associated with serum FSH (β 0.006, p = 0.009), sperm concentration (β −3.5, p = 0.003) and total sperm count (β −3.2, p = 0.007). The injection of hCG lowered sLHCGR in serum and urine of healthy men (p < 0.01). In conclusion, sLHCGR is released into body-fluids and linked with pubertal development and gonadal function. Circulating sLHCGR in anorchid men suggests that sLHCGR in serum may originate from and possibly exert actions in non-gonadal tissues. (ClinicalTrials: NTC01411527, NCT01304927, NCT03418896).
Epigenetic Regulation of MicroRNA Clusters and Families during Tumor Development
Authors: Gregorova Jana , Vychytilova-Faltejskova Petra , Sevcikova Sabina
Published: March 2021

MicroRNAs are small non-coding single-stranded RNA molecules regulating gene expression on a post-transcriptional level based on the seed sequence similarity. They are frequently clustered; thus, they are either simultaneously transcribed into a single polycistronic transcript or they may be transcribed independently. Importantly, microRNA families that contain the same seed region and thus target related signaling proteins, may be localized in one or more clusters, which are in a close relationship. MicroRNAs are involved in basic physiological processes, and their deregulation is associated with the origin of various pathologies, including solid tumors or hematologic malignancies. Recently, the interplay between the expression of microRNA clusters and families and epigenetic machinery was described, indicating aberrant DNA methylation or histone modifications as major mechanisms responsible for microRNA deregulation during cancerogenesis. In this review, the most studied microRNA clusters and families affected by hyper- or hypomethylation as well as by histone modifications are presented with the focus on particular mechanisms. Finally, the diagnostic and prognostic potential of microRNA clusters and families is discussed together with technologies currently used for epigenetic-based cancer therapies.
Novel Agents in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: New Combination Therapies and Strategies to Overcome Resistance
Authors: Fürstenau Moritz , Eichhorst Barbara
Published: March 2021

The approval of Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitors such as ibrutinib and acalabrutinib and the Bcl-2 inhibitor venetoclax have revolutionized the treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). While these novel agents alone or in combination induce long lasting and deep remissions in most patients with CLL, their use may be associated with the development of clinical resistance. In this review, we elucidate the genetic basis of acquired resistance to BTK and Bcl-2 inhibition and present evidence on resistance mechanisms that are not linked to single genomic alterations affecting these target proteins. Strategies to prevent resistance to novel agents are discussed in this review with a special focus on new combination therapies.
Neuroendocrine-Related Circulating Transcripts in Small-Cell Lung Cancers: Detection Methods and Future Perspectives
Authors: Muscarella Lucia Anna , Mazza Tommaso , Fabrizio Federico Pio , Sparaneo Angelo , D’Alessandro Vito , Tancredi Antonio , Trombetta Domenico , Centra Flavia , Muscarella Silvana Pia , Di Micco Concetta Martina , Rossi Antonio
Published: March 2021

No well-established prognostic or predictive molecular markers of small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) are currently available; therefore, all patients receive standard treatment. Adequate quantities and quality of tissue samples are frequently unavailable to perform a molecular analysis of SCLC, which appears more heterogeneous and dynamic than expected. The implementation of techniques to study circulating tumor cells could offer a suitable alternative to expand the knowledge of the molecular basis of a tumor. In this context, the advantage of SCLC circulating cells to express some specific markers to be explored in blood as circulating transcripts could offer a great opportunity in distinguishing and managing different SCLC phenotypes. Here, we present a summary of published data and new findings about the detection methods and potential application of a group of neuroendocrine related transcripts in the peripheral blood of SCLC patients. In the era of new treatments, easy and rapid detection of informative biomarkers in blood warrants further investigation, since it represents an important option to obtain essential information for disease monitoring and/or better treatment choices.
Microporous Zeolites and Related Nanoporous Materials: Synthesis, Characterization and Application in Catalysis
Authors: Kumar Narendra
Published: March 2021

Microporous zeolites and related nanoporous materials have been studied intensively in academic and industrial laboratories around the world [...]
Natural Rocks–Heterogeneous Catalysts for Oil Transesterification in Biodiesel Synthesis
Authors: Gaide Ieva , Makareviciene Violeta , Sendzikiene Egle , Kazancev Kiril
Published: March 2021

Some of the more recent methods to produce biodiesel are based on heterogeneous catalysis, which has the advantage of easy separation of catalyst from the final product. In this paper, the heterogeneous transesterification of rapeseed oil with methanol is studied. The aim of this work was to investigate the possibilities of using natural catalysts in biodiesel synthesis and to determine the optimal conditions for this process. After the evaluation of catalytic effectiveness of rocks containing calcium and magnesium carbonates, it was determined that dolomite is the most effective catalyst in heterogeneous biodiesel synthesis. The optimal conditions of dolomite preparation are the following: heating at 850 °C for 5 h. The rapeseed oil transesterification was optimized by the application response surface methodology. Optimal conditions for the production of rapeseed methyl esters using dolomite as catalyst are the following: molar ratio of methanol to rapeseed oil of 11.94:1, reaction temperature of 64 °C, dolomite content of 6 wt%, reaction time of 5 h.
Mechanisms of Neurodegeneration in Various Forms of Parkinsonism—Similarities and Differences
Authors: Koziorowski Dariusz , Figura Monika , Milanowski Łukasz M. , Szlufik Stanisław , Alster Piotr , Madetko Natalia , Friedman Andrzej
Published: March 2021

Parkinson’s disease (PD), dementia with Lewy body (DLB), progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), corticobasal degeneration (CBD) and multiple system atrophy (MSA) belong to a group of neurodegenerative diseases called parkinsonian syndromes. They share several clinical, neuropathological and genetic features. Neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by the progressive dysfunction of specific populations of neurons, determining clinical presentation. Neuronal loss is associated with extra- and intracellular accumulation of misfolded proteins. The parkinsonian diseases affect distinct areas of the brain. PD and MSA belong to a group of synucleinopathies that are characterized by the presence of fibrillary aggregates of α-synuclein protein in the cytoplasm of selected populations of neurons and glial cells. PSP is a tauopathy associated with the pathological aggregation of the microtubule associated tau protein. Although PD is common in the world’s aging population and has been extensively studied, the exact mechanisms of the neurodegeneration are still not fully understood. Growing evidence indicates that parkinsonian disorders to some extent share a genetic background, with two key components identified so far: the microtubule associated tau protein gene (MAPT) and the α-synuclein gene (SNCA). The main pathways of parkinsonian neurodegeneration described in the literature are the protein and mitochondrial pathways. The factors that lead to neurodegeneration are primarily environmental toxins, inflammatory factors, oxidative stress and traumatic brain injury.
Synapsins and the Synaptic Vesicle Reserve Pool: Floats or Anchors?
Authors: Zhang Minchuan , Augustine George J.
Published: March 2021

In presynaptic terminals, synaptic vesicles (SVs) are found in a discrete cluster that includes a reserve pool that is mobilized during synaptic activity. Synapsins serve as a key protein for maintaining SVs within this reserve pool, but the mechanism that allows synapsins to do this is unclear. This mechanism is likely to involve synapsins either cross-linking SVs, thereby anchoring SVs to each other, or creating a liquid phase that allows SVs to float within a synapsin droplet. Here, we summarize what is known about the role of synapsins in clustering of SVs and evaluate experimental evidence supporting these two models.
Piezo1 Channels Contribute to the Regulation of Human Atrial Fibroblast Mechanical Properties and Matrix Stiffness Sensing
Authors: Emig Ramona , Knodt Wiebke , Krussig Mario J. , Zgierski-Johnston Callum M. , Gorka Oliver , Groß Olaf , Kohl Peter , Ravens Ursula , Peyronnet Rémi
Published: March 2021

The mechanical environment of cardiac cells changes continuously and undergoes major alterations during diseases. Most cardiac diseases, including atrial fibrillation, are accompanied by fibrosis which can impair both electrical and mechanical function of the heart. A key characteristic of fibrotic tissue is excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix, leading to increased tissue stiffness. Cells are known to respond to changes in their mechanical environment, but the molecular mechanisms underlying this ability are incompletely understood. We used cell culture systems and hydrogels with tunable stiffness, combined with advanced biophysical and imaging techniques, to elucidate the roles of the stretch-activated channel Piezo1 in human atrial fibroblast mechano-sensing. Changing the expression level of Piezo1 revealed that this mechano-sensor contributes to the organization of the cytoskeleton, affecting mechanical properties of human embryonic kidney cells and human atrial fibroblasts. Our results suggest that this response is independent of Piezo1-mediated ion conduction at the plasma membrane, and mediated in part by components of the integrin pathway. Further, we show that Piezo1 is instrumental for fibroblast adaptation to changes in matrix stiffness, and that Piezo1-induced cell stiffening is transmitted in a paracrine manner to other cells by a signaling mechanism requiring interleukin-6. Piezo1 may be a new candidate for targeted interference with cardiac fibroblast function.
“Well, You Feel More Responsible When You’re Unsupervised”: Exploring Family Perspectives on Children’s Independent Mobility
Authors: Riazi Negin A. , Brussoni Mariana , Vertinsky Patricia , Faulkner Guy
Published: March 2021

While children’s independent mobility (CIM) is associated with various benefits, there is evidence of a generational decline in CIM in westernized countries; therefore, it is helpful to understand how CIM is currently negotiated between children and their parents. The purpose of this study was to examine children’s and parents’ perspectives and negotiations of CIM within the family unit. Face-to-face interviews and walk-along interviews were conducted with parents (n = 44) and children (n = 22), respectively. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim, and a thematic analysis was conducted. Four key preconditions were identified that facilitated negotiation of CIM within family units, including (1) the influence of parents’ childhood experiences regarding their view of CIM (e.g., positive interpretations of childhood on parenting practices), (2) the role of children’s individual characteristics on their independent mobility (e.g., child’s confidence in their abilities), (3) family communication as a key coping strategy (parent–parent and parent–child communication), and (4) the influence of positive perceptions of the social environment on CIM. The findings suggest that CIM thrives when these conditions are present; as a result, it may be particularly helpful to develop policies and programs that support children’s skill training, explore strategies to support communication between parents and children, and build neighbourhood connections.
Neuroimaging at Term Equivalent Age: Is There Value for the Preterm Infant? A Narrative Summary
Authors: Banihani Rudaina , Seesahai Judy , Asztalos Elizabeth , Terrien Church Paige
Published: March 2021

Advances in neuroimaging of the preterm infant have enhanced the ability to detect brain injury. This added information has been a blessing and a curse. Neuroimaging, particularly with magnetic resonance imaging, has provided greater insight into the patterns of injury and specific vulnerabilities. It has also provided a better understanding of the microscopic and functional impacts of subtle and significant injuries. While the ability to detect injury is important and irresistible, the evidence for how these injuries link to specific long-term outcomes is less clear. In addition, the impact on parents can be profound. This narrative summary will review the history and current state of brain imaging, focusing on magnetic resonance imaging in the preterm population and the current state of the evidence for how these patterns relate to long-term outcomes.
Investigation of the Protection Performance of Mg and Al Coated Copper in High Temperature or Marine Environments
Authors: Stathokostopoulos Dimitrios , Vogiatzis Christos A. , Chrissafis Konstantinos , Skolianos Stefanos , Vourlias George , Chaliampalias Dimitrios
Published: March 2021

Copper is commonly used in many applications such as electric wires, industrial machinery, boat propellers and heat exchangers. Although Cu is resistant to corrosion in ambient conditions, it is highly susceptible when exposed to harsh environments such as high-temperature air or marine atmospheres. The application of magnesium or aluminum coatings on Cu can efficiently smooth this disadvantage without affecting its primer properties. In the herein investigation, the deposition of these coatings was accomplished by pack cementation, a simple electrochemical technique which can be easily incorporated in the industrial scale. The final coatings were tested under high temperature environments by non-isothermal (dynamic) and isothermal thermogravimetric measurements, and in artificial sea water (3.5 wt.%-NaCl) by electrochemical corrosion. The structure of both coatings was compact with elevated thickness. The oxidation and corrosion measurements revealed that the coated samples had much better performance compared to the uncoated copper coupons. Furthermore, Al coatings were found to have the best performance when exposed in high temperature environment.
Research on a Superhydrophobic Coating of Highly Transparent Wear-Resistant Inorganic/Organic Silicon Composite Resin
Authors: Liu Yanze
Published: March 2021

Transparent superhydrophobic materials can be used in car glass, curtain walls, mobile phone screens, and other items. However, the hydrophobicity, transparency, and abrasion resistance of the transparent superhydrophobic coating are mutually restricted, and it is difficult to prepare transparent superhydrophobic coating with good performance. In this article, taking the mobile phone screen transparent coating as the research object, the inorganic silicon resin crystal coating as the main material, and the organic silicon resin as the binder and the hardness regulator, with the addition of the hydrophobically modifying nano silica particles, a high-transparent, wear-resistant, and superhydrophobic coating is researched. Experiments showed that when the composition mass ratio of SJ-32F resin to 9825 resin is 9:1 and the mass ratio of modified nano silica is 1.7%, the coating has a hardness of 3H–4H suitable for mobile phone screens, the contact angle of the coating can reach more than 150°, the rolling angle is less than 10°, and the light transmittance of the coating remains high at 91–95%. The cross-hatch adhesion strength of the coating reaches 5B, and the average adhesion strength measured by the adhesion pull tester is about 5.4 MPa. When the rubbing times reached 100, the light transmittance of the coating remained above 80%, and the contact angle remained basically unchanged.
Critical Aspects in Fabricating Multifunctional Super-Nonwettable Coatings Exhibiting Icephobic and Anti-Biofouling Properties
Authors: Esmeryan Karekin D.
Published: March 2021

The water is a vital compound for all known forms of life, but it can also cause detrimental consequences to our daily routine if by natural means becomes pathogenic bacterial carrier or transforms into ice. Imaginative by necessity, the surrounding environment has stimulated the mankind to emulate natural-design solutions and invent the so-called super-nonwettable coatings. Undisputedly, these coatings have revolutionized the modern industry by providing “a vehicle” for potential eco-friendly water purification, passive icing protection, suppression of the solid surface-associated spreading of bacterial infections and enhanced cryopreservation of living matter. Regrettably, the wide domestic use of liquid impermeable coatings (surfaces) is yet limited, since the current market trends impose the possession of fabrication scalability and multifunctionality, which is not covered by most of the available non-wettable products. This viewpoint article intends to outline the most significant scientific achievements within the past five years related to the release of anti-wetting coatings with multiple applications. Design and performance efficiencies in light of the physical chemistry of the surface are demonstrated, emphasizing on the likelihood of integrating icephobicity and anti-biofouling capacity within a single interfacial nanostructure.
Anti-Melanogenic Effects of Paederia foetida L. Extract via MAPK Signaling-Mediated MITF Downregulation
Authors: Chung You Chul , Lee Jung No , Kim Bong Seok , Hyun Chang-Gu
Published: March 2021

In this study, in order to explore the anti-melanogenic effect of PFE (Paederia foetida L. extract) and suggest its availability, B16F10 cells, which are murine melanoma cells, were stimulated with alpha-Melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) to conduct an in vitro experiment. Treatment with PFE in B16F10 cells with activated melanogenesis due to stimulants showed that PFE significantly inhibits melanin content as well as intracellular tyrosinase activity within a range that does not cause cytotoxicity. In addition, Western blot assay demonstrated that PFE strongly inhibited the protein expression of not only tyrosinase-related protein (TRP)-1, -2, and tyrosinase, but also microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF). Moreover, mechanism studies have shown that PFE processing inhibited the activation of melanin production by regulating the phosphorylation of each mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) family in the MAPK signaling pathway. To test the biocompatibility of PFE on human skin, a primary skin irritation test was performed. The results revealed that PFE did not have any side effects on human skin. These findings suggest that PFE holds great potential as a skin whitening agent and in the prevention of hyperpigmentation disorders.
In Vitro Cultured Melissa officinalis Cells as Effective Ingredient to Protect Skin against Oxidative Stress, Blue Light, and Infrared Irradiations Damages
Authors: Pressi Giovanna , Bertaiola Oriana , Guarnerio Chiara , Barbieri Elisa , Guzzo Flavia , Durand Caroline , Peno-Mazzarino Laurent , Cocetta Veronica , Giacomini Isabella , Semenzato Alessandra
Published: March 2021

Skin is being increasingly exposed to artificial blue light due to the extensive use of electronic devices, which can induce cell oxidative stress, causing signs of early photo aging. The Melissa officinalis phytocomplex is a new standardized cosmetic ingredient obtained by an in vitro plant cell culture with a high content of rosmarinic acid. In this study, we examine the activity of the Melissa officinalis phytocomplex to protect skin against blue light and infrared damages, evaluating the ROS (Radical Oxygen Species) level in keratinocyte cell line from human skin (HaCaT) and Nrf2 (Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2), elastin, and MMP1 (Matrix Metalloproteinase 1) immunostaining in living human skin explants ex vivo. This phytocomplex demonstrates antioxidant activity by reducing ROS production and thus the oxidant damage of the skin caused by UV and blue light exposure. In addition, it inhibits blue light-induced Nrf2 transcriptional activity, IR-induced elastin alteration, and IR-induced MMP-1 release. This Melissa officinalis phytocomplex is a new innovative active ingredient for cosmetic products that is able to protect skin against light and screen exposure damages and oxidative stress.
A New Class of Q-Ary Codes for the McEliece Cryptosystem
Authors: Freudenberger Jürgen , Thiers Johann-Philipp
Published: March 2021

The McEliece cryptosystem is a promising candidate for post-quantum public-key encryption. In this work, we propose q-ary codes over Gaussian integers for the McEliece system and a new channel model. With this one Mannheim error channel, errors are limited to weight one. We investigate the channel capacity of this channel and discuss its relation to the McEliece system. The proposed codes are based on a simple product code construction and have a low complexity decoding algorithm. For the one Mannheim error channel, these codes achieve a higher error correction capability than maximum distance separable codes with bounded minimum distance decoding. This improves the work factor regarding decoding attacks based on information-set decoding.
Microstructure and Optical Characterization of Mid-Wave HgCdTe Grown by MBE under Different Conditions
Authors: Qiu Xiao-Fang , Zhang Sheng-Xi , Zhang Jian , Zhu Yi-Cheng , Dou Cheng , Han San-Can , Wu Yan , Chen Ping-Ping
Published: March 2021

The mid-wave single-crystal HgCdTe (211) films were successfully grown on GaAs (211) B substrates by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE). Microstructure and optical properties of the MBE growth HgCdTe films grown at different temperatures were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning transmission electron microscopy, Raman and photoluminescence. The effects of growth temperature on the crystal quality of HgCdTe/CdTe have been studied in detail. The HgCdTe film grown at the lower temperature of 151 °C has high crystal quality, the interface is flat and there are no micro twins. While the crystal quality of the HgCdTe grown at higher temperature of 155 °C is poor, and there are defects and micro twins at the HgCdTe/CdTe interface. The research results demonstrate that the growth temperature significantly affects the crystal quality and optical properties of HgCdTe films.
Left Ventricular Rupture as a Complication of Anterior Wall Myocardial Infarction on Computed Tomography Angiography and Ventriculography
Authors: Gać Paweł , Macek Piotr , Szczepański Andrzej , Poręba Rafał
Published: March 2021

Rupture of the free wall of the left ventricle, rupture of the interventricular septum and acute mitral regurgitation are mechanical complications of myocardial infarction. They are rare; left ventricular rupture occurs in about 2–4% of patients with myocardial infarction. We present the case of an 85-year-old woman with an anterior wall infarction complicated by left ventricular rupture. We present diagnostic images of pathology visualized by computed tomography angiography, performed in order to exclude aortic dissection as the cause of the presence of fluid in the pericardial sac. Images from ventriculography are also presented. Summing up, during the diagnostic and therapeutic process of acute coronary syndrome, it is important to bear in mind the risk of possible complications, such as left ventricular rupture.
Beating Standard Quantum Limit with Weak Measurement
Authors: Chen Geng , Yin Peng , Zhang Wen-Hao , Li Gong-Chu , Li Chuan-Feng , Guo Guang-Can
Published: March 2021

Weak measurements have been under intensive investigation in both experiment and theory. Numerous experiments have indicated that the amplified meter shift is produced by the post-selection, yielding an improved precision compared to conventional methods. However, this amplification effect comes at the cost of a reduced rate of acquiring data, which leads to an increasing uncertainty to determine the level of meter shift. From this point of view, a number of theoretical works have suggested that weak measurements cannot improve the precision, or even damage the metrology information due to the post-selection. In this review, we give a comprehensive analysis of the weak measurements to justify their positive effect on prompting measurement precision. As a further step, we introduce two modified weak measurement protocols to boost the precision beyond the standard quantum limit. Compared to previous works beating the standard quantum limit, these protocols are free of using entangled or squeezed states. The achieved precision outperforms that of the conventional method by two orders of magnitude and attains a practical Heisenberg scaling up to n=106 photons.
The Soft Skills of Special Education Teachers: Evidence from the Literature
Authors: Fernandes Patrícia Raquel da Silva , Jardim Jacinto , Lopes Maria Celeste de Sousa
Published: March 2021

The special education teacher is a key element in the development of the process of inclusive education. In this setting, soft skills have proven to be determinant in teachers’ educational action. However, those that best qualify their profile have not yet been identified. Therefore, this study aims to carry out a review of scientific production between the years 2010 and 2020. To this end, articles were selected using the following databases: ERIC, Scopus, Web of Science, and PsycINFO. Studies have been included in the review that point out as soft skills: resilience, reflexibility, empathy, collaborative work, self-efficacy, creativity, and effective communication. Only studies that presented such criteria were included in the analysis. After the application of the eligibility criteria, seven articles were considered. From the analysis, it emerges that effective communication, collaborative work, and reflexibility stand out. There are gaps in this area in the specialized training of these teachers. Thus, it is suggested that there should be investment in this area in the training programs of the schools that certify them; and that, at the research level, instruments should be developed to evaluate the model emerging from this review.
Family support in older institutionalized people
Authors: del Mar Molero Mª , Pérez-Fuentes Mª del Carmen , Gázquez José J. , Sclavo Erica
Published: March 2021

Social changes, life events, and the difficulties that accompany ageing can lead to situations of loneliness and, in the worst cases, isolation. In cases of institutionalization, the attenuating effect of family support may increase when people are faced by the need to deal with a new life stage like old age. The goal of this study was to analyze the frequency and type of family contacts that are maintained in old people's residences, as well as the old people's degree of satisfaction with such contacts. A sample of 50 institutionalized people over 70 years of age completed the Cuestionario de Evaluación de Calidad de Vida en contexto Residencial (CECAVI-R, in Spanish, the Questionnaire to Assess Quality of Life within a Residential Context). The results show that the oldest people in the residences have more frequent family contacts. Taking gender into account, the frequency of family contacts varied as a function of the visitor (grandchildren, siblings, etc.). Lastly, the analysis of satisfaction with family relations was positive, and the younger inmates displayed the least satisfaction.
Scholar Violence and Academic Achievement (VERA): Augmented Reality Application
Authors: Pérez-Fuentes Mª del Carmen , Álvarez-Bermejo José A. , Molero Mª del Mar , Gázquez José J. , López Vicente Miguel A.
Published: March 2021

Currently, there are two main problems that affect the scholar atmosphere negatively, in secondary education centers: violence between students and academic underachievement. Both issues are analysed in multiple research papers where a complex relationship, between scholar violence and academic underachievement, is hold. The work presented in this paper unveils the need of a developing a tool to evaluate this complex relationship between scholar violence and academic underachievement. The tool developed is called VERA-Nivel I. This software is an augmented reality video game able not only to discover detailed information on how students interact and between who these interactions occur but also allows to mine information on their cognitive skills. The exploited concept, lent from augmented reality, in this game is the possibility to analyse the interactions with real peers and in a real context, their classroom. Concurrently to this context-aware analysis, the application is designed to reward non-violent behaviour. Vera-Nivel I is not restricted to the educational context but to any other context in which the same evaluation object is available.
Changes in Levels of Burnout in a Comparative Study in Professional Caregivers After a Situation of Post-Traumatic Stress
Authors: Martínez Juan P. , Méndez Inmaculada , Secanilla Esther , González Elena
Published: March 2021

Following a previous study on professional caregivers of people with dementia and other diseases in residential, was decided to compare two residential centers of two different regions, Murcia and Barcelona. Based on the results of which 13.3% of the global sample had a high emotional exhaustion, 54.8% a high level of depersonalization and 10% a reduced sense of personal accomplishment, we proceed to an analysis of current levels in the three dimensions to study their evolution. Similarly, we assess whether in the town of Lorca (Murcia), these levels have been affected by the earthquake on May 11, 2011, for which it has conducted an evaluation of possible symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). We proceeded to the administration of the same tests of the latest research (Scale Maslach Burnout Inventory -MBI- and an ad hoc survey conducted for professional caregivers) and the Scale SA-45 which is the short form from the original SCL-90, and the Severity of Symptoms Scale of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. The results show differences between the two populations in different variables and they shed light on the consequences and impact of a traumatic event in the sample.
Construction and Initial Validation of a Questionnaire to Assess Quality of Life in Older Institutionalized People
Authors: Molero Mª del Mar , Pérez-Fuentes Mª del Carmen , Gázquez José J. , Mercader Isabel
Published: March 2021

The aim of present study is the construction and initial validation of a specific instrument to assess Quality of Life of older people in a residential setting. Firstly, an initial questionnaire was designed, the Cuestionario de Evaluación de Calidad de Vida en Contexto Residencial (CECAVIR; in English, Questionnaire of Assessment of Quality of Life in Residential Setting) and subsequently refined, reducing the number of items from 88 to 56. It was then administered to a sample of 50 institutionalized people over 70 years of age. The results obtained in the new version of the instrument showed a considerable improvement of the alpha coefficient, both in the total questionnaire (from .816 to .865), and in each subscale. The results also showed that Functional Capacity is the dimension that best explains (44%) quality of life in older institutionalized people. Thus, the CECAVIR is presented as a specific instrument for the assessment of Quality of Life, which takes into account its multidimensionality, obtaining optimal results in the initial analyses of reliability and validity, in older institutionalized population.
School Violence: the Interpersonal Teacher-Student Dyad
Authors: Domínguez Alonso José , López Castedo Antonio , Pino Juste Margarita , Álvarez Roales Enrique
Published: March 2021

This study analyses ways of using violence in the classroom by teachers to students (VPA) and students to teachers (VAP), according to the students` perception of secondary obligatory education (ESO). The sample is composed of 4943 adolescents whose ages range from 12 to 17 years old. The questionnaire of school violence (CUVE3-ESO) used in our study has a Cronbach`s alpha of .90 (high reliability), and the split-halves method has an alpha of .82 (items VPA) and .84 (items VAP), confirming that the instrument has high reliability. From factorial analysis was extracted two factors (F1: VPA; F2: VAP) that explain 44.8% of the variance. The results show a similar percentage of violent behavior in both directions (VPA: 18.9%; VAP: 15.9%), being the conducts most used by teachers: the use of ratings as pressure behavior (31%) and preference for certain type of students (29.5%). And being the conducts most used by students: to speak during the class (46.6%) and inadequate behavior (39%).
Familiasenred: a Virtual and Family Participation Environment
Authors: García Luis A. , Castro José J. , Méndez Anisia , Ramírez Javier M.
Published: March 2021

The platform Familiasenred.es emerged as one strategy within Canary Training Plan for the Family, which offers an alternative to parents training through ICT. Mounted in a Moodle in 2009, 168 training activities (62 online, 30 semi and 76 face) have been offered in 2012, activities that result in more than 1680 hours of training on different topics related to family and children education. The objective of the study will be to compare the results obtained in the study of García, Castro, Junco and Hernández (2011) about the influence of student participation on the levels of satisfaction, with how this influence is modulated by the participation. The study population will be the 5083 users of the Familiasenred.es platform in 2012. To this end, a self-developed satisfaction scale will be employed, limiting the original composed of eleven items Likert. This scale will be administered during the month of December, 2012, voluntarily and after the training proposal 2011-2012. According to the data obtained from the test, comparative analysis between the levels of student satisfaction, the participation in the platform and the teacher participation will be conducted.
What actions to improve coexistence are being developed at schools?: A inside perspective
Authors: Dobarro González Alejandra , García Fernández Trinidad , Álvarez García David
Published: March 2021

The aim of this work was to know students` perception about different techniques to improve the school coexistence. For it, there were evaluated 2597 students of the Compulsory Secondary Education by means of the Questionnaire M-ESO. The Questionnaire M-ESO allows evaluate the students` opinion about organizational aspect related to coexistence, conflict resolution, teaching methodology, relationship between students and relationship between families and school. Results show that dissemination of rules and punishment are perceived by students such the most common of the actions to improve coexistence. These actions are followed in frequency by those relating to education in values and conflict resolution. Contrary to what is desirable, strategies relating to consensus rules are perceived by students such the less common in its center.
Analysis of Developmental Changes on Reading Self-efficacy through Compulsory Secondary Education
Authors: Olivares Fátima , Fidalgo Raquel , Arias-Gundín Olga
Published: March 2021

This study analyzes changes on students ‘reading self-efficacy beliefs through the compulsory Secondary Education from a developmental perspective. Sample comprised 492 students from 1st to 4th Secondary Grades (from 12 to 16 years old), belonged to four public schools and four semi-private schools of León (283 males and 209 females). After the application of the Reading Self-efficacy Scale and the subsequent analysis, results suggested statistically significant differences in the developmental pattern of reading self-efficacy across the 1st to 4th grades of compulsory Secondary Education, specifically, in the global reading self-efficacy and the subscale of decoding and fluency reading self-efficacy. They showed an increase in reading self-efficacy along the grades. However, we did not find changes in the other reading self-efficacy subscales, reading self-efficacy in relation to the construction of the text model and the situation model of reading. Educational implications, limitations and future lines of research of this study are discussed.
Analysis of the Socio-Health Services Used of Family Caregivers of Alzheimer Patients
Authors: Ruiz Fernández Mª Dolores , Fernández Leyva Antonia , López Cano María , Pérez-Fuentes Mª del Carmen , Gázquez Linares José Jesús
Published: March 2021

Alzheimer type dementia is one of the main health problems, due to the disability and dependence it produces. The implementation of Law 39/2006 attempts to respond to the needs by means of a catalogue of socio-health services and resources to provide support to the patients and their relatives. A study was conducted with 255 caregivers/relatives of people diagnosed with Alzheimer type dementia in order to determine the profile of the beneficiaries of these services, taking into account the caregivers' knowledge, the phase of the illness, and level of dependence. The results show that caregivers with knowledge of the disease and patients who are at a more advanced stage are the ones who use the most resources. Specifically, caregivers with knowledge used the family respite to a greater extent, and predominantly caregivers of patients at a mild phase of the disease enjoyed volunteer services and help at home, whereas caregivers at more advanced phases used the Day Center and economic aid. Lastly, we underline that volunteer service is used by subjects with a lower level of dependence, whereas more dependent people use economic aid the most.
The Importance of Having Good Health Condition in Self-Assessment of the Quality of Life. The Example of Senior Students of the Balearic Islands
Authors: González Liberto Macías , Vives Barceló Margarita , Orte Socias Carmen , Sánchez Prieto Lydia
Published: March 2021

This paper is part of a widest study about quality of life of older people who are enrolled in a university programme for seniors. This part belongs to a the first phase, focused on the assessment of the quality of life of senior students enrolled into the first year of the Diploma Sènior (a three years degree) of the Open university for Seniors (UOM), educational programme offered by the University of the Balearic Islands (UIB) to people over 50 years. This paper shows the results of the subjective perception of the quality of life of older people enrolled in the first year degree, during three different and correlative academic years (2009-10, 2010-11 and 2011-12) of UOM. Our main goal is to understand and assess which are components related to their quality of life, that they give more importance or consideration for their own quality of life. The outcomes show that a huge majority, a 93%, thinks that the most important component is "to have good health" and only a 0.8% of the sample perceived their quality of life as bad or low.
Visual Attention and Aging: an Age-Related Cognitive Model of Positive Adaptation
Authors: Rodríguez-Ferrer José Manuel
Published: March 2021

We have studied the effects of normal aging on visual attention. Have participated a group of 38 healthy elderly people with an average age of 67.8 years and a group of 39 healthy young people with average age of 19.2 years. In a first experiment of visual detection, response times were recorded, with and without covert attention, to the presentation of stimuli (0.5º in diameter grey circles) appearing in three eccentricities (2.15, 3.83 and 5.53° of visual field) and with three levels of contrast (6, 16 and 78%). In a second experiment of visual form discrimination circles and squares with the same features as in the previous experiment were presented, but in this case subjects only should respond to the emergence of the circles. In both age groups, the covert attention reduced response times. Compared to young people, the older group achieved better results in some aspects of attention tests and response times were reduced more in the stimuli of greater eccentricity. The data suggest that there is a mechanism of adaptation in aging, in which visual attention especially favors the perception of those stimuli more difficult to detec
Quality of Life of Institutionalized Elderly People in Nursing Homes: a Quantitative Analysis
Authors: Acevedo Alcaraz Esther
Published: March 2021

Nursing homes have the characteristic of being “complete institutions” or “enclosed microcosms” and the quality of life (QoL) in late adulthood is generally perceived as a multidimensional construct. Over recent years, media reports have focused on the deficiencies in nursing home residences, and a subsequent increase in the demand for instruments capable of measuring this construct has arisen. Objective: To compare the quantitative functional mobility, level of independence, depressive symptoms and QoL of nursing home residents compared with home care recipients. Methods: have analyzed the quality of life and physical and psychological disorders 400 people over 60 years old, admitted to nursing homes or living with their families through the implementation of a questionnaire covering three different indices (Barthel Index, Yesavage and WHOQOL-OLD) to assess the degree of dependence of people. Results: has resulted in a significant reduction in quality of life of older people living in nursing homes (p<0.001) compared to older usually live with their families. Our results show that the degree of physical and / or psychological dependence on our largest is the determinant for entry into a nursing home in our community (p>0.001) factor. Conclusions: the current model residences require a change that allows responding to the real needs of our elderly institutionalized.
Aging and Women’s Sexuality
Authors: Luque Salas Bárbara
Published: March 2021

We present results of our research, which has been aimed at understanding the experience, practice, and sexual life in women over 50 years of age. We studied a sample of 729 women of between 50 and 80 years of age. The research is part of qualitative feminist research methodology. Both qualitative and quantitative data have been collected through focus groups and a questionnaire drawn up by our research team. The results show the satisfaction of older women-of all ages-with their sex life and the importance of contextual and relational sexuality issues of women. Autoeroticism is the most established sexual practice in this group of older women and highlights who want to experience some changes in their current sex life around the desire for a more sensual and emotional sexuality, with a claim of more passionate and frequent relations. The data collected reveal a qualitative difference in the reality of sex over the age of 70.