bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalencia de Bullying y Cyberbullying en Latinoamérica: una revisión
Authors: Garaigordobil Maite , Mollo-Torrico Juan Pablo , Larrain Enara
Published: August 2019

El objetivo de este trabajo consiste en realizar una revisión sistemática de las investigaciones que aportan porcentajes de víctimas y agresores de bullying y cyberbullying en Latinoamérica (2005-2018). Con esta finalidad se utilizan las principales bases de datos (Scopus, WebOfScience, ERIC). Se han encontrado 51 estudios, 35 sobre bullying, 10 de cyberbullying y 6 aportan información de ambas modalidades de acoso. Los resultados evidencian una alta prevalencia de bullying y, aunque en menor medida también de cyberbullying, en todos los países de Latinoamérica donde el fenómeno ha sido estudiado (Colombia, México, Argentina, Brasil, Bolivia, Perú, Chile, Nicaragua, Venezuela, Panamá, Ecuador, y Puerto Rico). La revisión confirma una significativa prevalencia de bullying ocasional/frecuente (víctimas 4.6%-50%; agresores 4%-34.9%) y de cyberbullying ocasional/frecuente (cibervíctimas 3.5%-17.5%; ciberagresores 2.5%-58%). La mayoría de los implicados son varones. El tipo de acoso más frecuente es el verbal, seguido del psicológico y el físico. Aunque el bullying cara-a-cara, especialmente la violencia física, disminuye con la edad, el cyberbullying sigue presente en la adolescencia tardía y la juventud. Entre las conductas de cyberbullying más frecuentes identificadas en esta revisión caben destacar: envío de mensajes desagradables, insultos, amenazas, realizar comentarios y hacer circular rumores para desprestigiar o ridiculizar a la víctima, difundir fotos y vídeos ofensivos para la víctima, robo de la contraseña… La magnitud de los datos epidemiológicos hallados en esta revisión enfatiza la necesidad de seguir investigando el tema, además de implementar programas de prevención/intervención del bullying/cyberbullying, durante la infancia, la adolescencia y la juventud.
Inclusión digital y los retos para la innovación educativa en Brasil y Colombia
Authors: Pereira Meireles da Silva Algeless Milka , Díaz Gómez Darwin Andrés
Published: August 2019

El trabajo tiene por finalidad discutir aspectos asociados a la inclusión digital en Brasil y Colombia, los retos educativos que se plantean y, especialmente, los procesos de innovación educativa mediada por tecnologías digitales de información y comunicación (TDIC). Las reflexiones sobre el tema se basan en el trabajo conducido en el marco de una investigación empírica sobre la influencia del nivel socioeconómico y las experiencias de aprendizaje mediadas por las tecnologías digitales en estudiantes universitarios brasileños y colombianos. Desde una perspectiva socioconstructivista y situada del aprendizaje, el trabajo parte de tres convicciones. La primera considera que las TDIC son importantes artefactos socioculturales mediadores de las prácticas sociales, configurando una nueva ecología del aprendizaje. La segunda refiere al hecho de que, en la sociedad de la información (SI), las condiciones de acceso y uso de las TDIC no se dan igualmente para todos, sino que deben analizarse teniendo en cuenta la influencia del poder económico de los diferentes países y el nivel socioeconómico de las personas. La tercera, es que las diversas experiencias de acceso y uso de las TDIC por las personas repercuten sobre las oportunidades educativas, restringiéndolas o ampliándolas y llevando a la construcción de diferentes rutas de aprendizaje. En este sentido, desde los aspectos de la inclusión digital en Brasil y Colombia, se discuten los retos que se plantean a la educación, especialmente a los procesos de innovación educativa
Escala de Adicción al Internet de Lima (EAIL): Análisis psicométrico
Authors: Ávila Berrio David Leonardo , Pardo Jaime Elio Leonardo , Muñoz Rojas María Liliana
Published: August 2019

El objetivo de este estudio ha sido analizar las propiedades psicométricas de la Escala de Adicción al Internet de Lima (EAIL). La escala se aplicó en 110 estudiantes de secundaria de una institución educativa pública de la ciudad de Bogotá, quienes se encontraban distribuidos entre los grados sexto a onceavo. Para validar sus propiedades psicométricas se utilizaron tres procedimientos: en primer lugar, se calculó el alfa de Cronbach para establecer la confiabilidad de la prueba; en segundo lugar, se realizó un análisis factorial exploratorio con el fin de determinar la validez interna y, por último, se realizó un análisis de comunalidades para establecer las correlaciones ítemprueba. Los resultados reflejan un índice de confiabilidad de 0.798 y la presencia de dos dimensiones que explican el 47.7% de la varianza total, aunque se presentaron inconsistencias en la carga factorial de los ítems 2 y 11. Con base en los resultados, se puede afirmar que la EAIL puede ser apropiada para su utilización con estudiantes Bogotanos, aunque es recomendable que se realicen estudios posteriores que permitan establecer soluciones a las diferencias encontradas en el análisis
Islam, Budaya dan komunikasi antarbudaya Islam di Indonesia
Authors: Siddiq Rofiah
Published: August 2019

The occurrence of contacts between various ethnic groups in Indonesia, the different respond to socio-political conditions in Indonesia, the occurrence of Indonesian Islamic affiliations with various countries, gave diverse Islamic cultures with various roles and functions in the history of Indonesia's development since colonial period. to the existence, role and function of various existing Islamic cultural identities, conflict of identity cannot be avoided. This condition requires an intercultural communication with the principle of mutual understanding, mutual respect and mutual support, as in the concept of intercultural communication by Ting-Toomey (1999). Government support for one of the  Islamic cultures in Indonesia has triggered a conflict of triangles between the  government, Islamic culture mainstreams and Islamic culture streams. With the constructivism paradigm, this study interpreted social facts constructed based on subjective experience of informants. Qualitative data and analysis were obtained from twenty informants as sources of research in B
Noise Sources and Control, and Exposure Groups in Chemical Manufacturing Plants
Authors: Rikhotso Oscar , Harmse Johannes Leon , Engelbrecht Jacobus Christoffel
Published: August 2019

The chemical manufacturing industry employs sophisticated mechanical equipment to process feedstock such as natural gas by transforming it to usable raw material in downstream sectors. Workers employed at these facilities are exposed to inherent occupational health hazards, including occupational noise. An online and grey literature search on ScienceDirect, Oxford Journals online, PubMed, Medline, Jstor and regulatory bodies using specific keywords on noise emission sources in the manufacturing sector was conducted. This review focuses on noise sources and their control in chemical manufacturing plants along with the receptors of the emitted noise, providing hearing conservation programme stakeholders valuable information for better programme management. Literature confirms that chemical manufacturing plants operate noise emitting equipment which exposes job categories such as machine operators, process operators and maintenance personnel amongst others. Prominent noise sources in chemicals manufacturing industries include compressors, pumps, motors, fans, turbines, vents, steam leaks and control valves. Specific industries within the chemical manufacturing sector emit noise levels ranging between 85–115 dBA (A-weighted sound pressure level), which exceed the noise rating limit of 85 dBA used in South Africa and United Kingdom, as well as the 90 dBA permissible exposure level used in the United States, levels above which workplace control is required. Engineering noise control solutions for plant equipment and machinery operated in chemical manufacturing plants are available on the market for implementation.
Characteristics of Fine Particulate Matter (PM2.5) over Urban, Suburban, and Rural Areas of Hong Kong
Authors: Bilal Muhammad , Nichol Janet E. , Nazeer Majid , Shi Yuan , Wang Lunche , Kumar K. Raghavendra , Ho Hung Chak , Mazhar Usman , Bleiweiss Max P. , Qiu Zhongfeng , Khedher Khaled Mohamed , Lolli Simone
Published: August 2019

In urban areas, fine particulate matter (PM2.5) associated with local vehicle emissions can cause respiratory and cardiorespiratory disease and increased mortality rates, but less so in rural areas. However, Hong Kong may be a special case, since the whole territory often suffers from regional haze from nearby mainland China, as well as local sources. Therefore, to understand which areas of Hong Kong may be affected by damaging levels of fine particulates, PM2.5 data were obtained from March 2005 to February 2009 for urban, suburban, and rural air quality monitoring stations; namely Central (city area, commercial area, and urban populated area), Tsuen Wan (city area, commercial area, urban populated, and residential area), Tung Chung (suburban and residential area), Yuen Long (urban and residential area), and Tap Mun (remote rural area). To evaluate the relative contributions of regional and local pollution sources, the study aimed to test the influence of weather conditions on PM2.5 concentrations. Thus, meteorological parameters including temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, and wind directions were obtained from the Hong Kong Observatory. The results showed that Hong Kong’s air quality is mainly affected by regional aerosol emissions, either transported from the land or ocean, as similar patterns of variations in PM2.5 concentrations were observed over urban, suburban, and rural areas of Hong Kong. Only slightly higher PM2.5 concentrations were observed over urban sites, such as Central, compared to suburban and rural sites, which could be attributed to local automobile emissions. Results showed that meteorological parameters have the potential to explain 80% of the variability in daily mean PM2.5 concentrations—at Yuen Long, 77% at Tung Chung, 72% at Central, 71% at Tsuen Wan, and 67% at Tap Mun, during the spring to summer part of the year. The results provide not only a better understanding of the impact of regional long-distance transport of air pollutants on Hong Kong’s air quality but also a reference for future regional-scale collaboration on air quality management.
Temporal Variations of the Turbulence Profiles at the Sayan Solar Observatory Site
Authors: Shikhovtsev Artem , Kovadlo Pavel , Lukin Vladimir
Published: August 2019

The paper focuses on the development of the method to estimate the mean characteristics of the atmospheric turbulence. Using an approach based on the shape of the energy spectrum of atmospheric turbulence over a wide range of spatial and temporal scales, the vertical profiles of optical turbulence are calculated. The temporal variability of the vertical profiles of turbulence under different low-frequency atmospheric disturbances is considered.
Baseline and Early Predictors of Good Patient Candidates for Second-Line after Sorafenib Treatment in Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Takada Hitomi , Kurosaki Masayuki , Tsuchiya Kaoru , Komiyama Yasuyuki , Itakura Jun , Takahashi Yuka , Nakanishi Hiroyuki , Yasui Yutaka , Tamaki Nobuharu , Maeyashiki Chiaki , Kaneko Shun , Takaura Kenta , Higuchi Mayu , Okada Mao , Wang Wan , Osawa Leona , Sekiguchi Shuhei , Hayakawa Yuka , Yamashita Koji , Enomoto Nobuyuki , Izumi Namiki
Published: August 2019

Background: Recent advances in the development of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have enabled patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) to receive multiple TKIs in sequence. The aim of this study was to identify predictors of good candidates for second-line treatment after disease progression during sorafenib treatment. Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study of 190 consecutive HCC patients who were treated with sorafenib in our hospital. Three criteria of good candidates for second-line TKI at the time of disease progression during sorafenib treatment were defined as follows: criterion 1 was the same as the inclusion criteria of the regorafenib for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma who progressed on sorafenib treatment (RESORCE) study, criterion 2 was the inclusion criteria of the RESORCE study plus Child–Pugh score 5, and criterion 3 was the inclusion criteria of the RESORCE study plus albumin–bilirubin (ALBI) grade 1. Factors at baseline and at week 4 during sorafenib treatment were used to predict patients fulfilling each of these three criteria. Results: The distribution of patients was 29%, 13%, and 6% in criteria 1, 2, and 3, respectively. Significant factors for meeting criterion 1 was the combination of baseline albumin >3.7 g/dL (odds ratio (OR) 2.7) plus degree of decrease in albumin (Δalbumin) at week 4 <0.2 g/dL (OR 2.6), or the combination of baseline ALBI score <−2.33 (OR 2.5) and ΔALBI at week 4 <0.255 (OR 4.9). For criterion 2, the value of baseline albumin and ALBI score was identical to criterion 1; however, Δalbumin (<0.1 g/dL) and ΔALBI score (<0.19) became stricter. For criterion 3, the value of baseline albumin (>3.8 g/dL) and ALBI (<−2.55) became stricter, as did Δalbumin (<0.1 g/dL) and ΔALBI (<0.085). Furthermore, tumor burden (>11) was selected as an additional predictor (OR 5.4). Conclusion: Predictors to satisfy the RESORCE study inclusion criteria were as follows: preserved liver function at baseline, as reflected by albumin or ALBI score, and small deterioration of liver function early during sorafenib therapy, as reflected by Δalbumin or ΔALBI at week 4. Liver function at baseline and degree of change in liver function during sorafenib treatment need to be stricter for better outcomes of liver function with disease progression.
Theory of Time-Resolved Optical Conductivity of Superconductors: Comparing Two Methods for Its Evaluation
Authors: Revelle John P. , Kumar Ankit , Kemper Alexander F.
Published: August 2019

Time-resolved optical conductivity is an often used tool to interrogate quantum materials driven out of equilibrium. Theoretically calculating this observable is a complex topic with several approaches discussed in the literature. Using a nonequilibrium Keldysh formalism and a functional derivative approach to the conductivity, we present a comparison of two particular approaches to the calculation of the optical conductivity and their distinguishing features, as applied to a pumped superconductor. The two methods are distinguished by the relative motion of the probe and gate times; either the probe or gate time is kept fixed while the other is swept. We find that both the methods result in same qualitative features of the time-resolved conductivity after pump is over. However, calculating the conductivity by keeping the gate fixed removes artifacts inherent to the other method. We provide software that, based on data for the first method, is able to construct the second approach.
Power Quality Services Provided by Virtually Synchronous FACTS
Authors: Tarraso Andres , Lai Ngoc-Bao , Baltas Gregory N. , Rodriguez Pedro
Published: August 2019

The variable and unpredictable behavior of renewable energies impacts the performance of power systems negatively, threatening their stability and hindering their efficient operation. Flexible ac transmission systems (FACTS) devices are able to emulate the connection of parallel and series impedances in the transmission system, which improves the regulation of power systems with a high share of renewables, avoiding congestions, enhancing their response in front of contingencies and, in summary, increasing their utilization and reliability. Proper control of voltage and current under distorted and unbalanced transient grid conditions is one of the most critical issues in the control of FACTS devices to emulate such apparent impedances. This paper describes how the synchronous power controller (SPC) can be used to implement virtually synchronous FACTS. It presents the SPC functionalities, emphasizing in particular the importance of virtual admittance emulation by FACTS devices in order to control transient unbalanced currents during faults and attenuate harmonics. Finally, the results demonstrate the effectiveness of SPC-based FACTS devices in improving power quality of electrical networks. This is a result of their contribution to voltage balancing at point of connection during asymmetrical faults and the improvement of grid voltage quality by controlling harmonics flow.
Seeking Environmental Sustainability in Dryland Forestry
Authors: Stavi Ilan
Published: August 2019

Forestry systems, including afforestation and reforestation land uses, are prevalent in drylands and aimed at restoring degraded lands and halting desertification. However, an increasing amount of literature has alerted potentially adverse ecological and environmental impacts of this land use, risking a wide range of ecosystem functions and services. The objective of this paper is to demonstrate the potentially adverse implications of dryland forestry and highlight the caution needed when planning and establishing such systems. Wherever relevant, establishment of low-impact runoff harvesting systems is favored over high-impact ones, which might cause extensive land degradation of their surroundings. Specifically, both in hillslopes and channels, scraping, removal, or disturbance of topsoil for the construction of runoff harvesting systems should be minimized to prevent the decrease in soil hydraulic conductivity and increase in water overland flow and soil erosion. In order to negate suppression of understory vegetation and sustain plant species richness and diversity, low-density savanization by non-allelopathic tree species is preferred over high-density forestry systems by allelopathic species. Wherever possible, it is preferable to plant native tree species rather than introduced or exotic species, in order to prevent genetic pollution and species invasion. Mixed-species forestry systems should be favored over single-species plantations, as they are less susceptible to infestation by pests and diseases. In addition, drought-tolerant, fire-resistant, and less flammable tree species should be preferred over drought-prone, fire-susceptible, and more flammable species.
“There Is a Cat on Our Ward”: Inpatient and Staff Member Attitudes toward and Experiences with Cats in a Psychiatric Ward
Authors: Wagner Cora , Lang Undine E. , Hediger Karin
Published: August 2019

The aim of this study was to investigate inpatient and staff member attitudes toward and experiences with ward cats, and identify possible mechanisms for how cats affect patient satisfaction in a psychiatric clinic. Thirty-three inpatients diagnosed with depression or psychosis residing on wards with and without cats and 17 staff members working on wards with cats participated in semi-structured interviews using a cross-sectional study design. Data analysis included descriptive statistics and correlations. The results showed that 17 out of 19 inpatients and all the staff members liked having a cat on their ward. Further, 12 out of 14 inpatients on wards without cats would like having a cat on their ward. Inpatient perceptions of the cat’s impact on the ward atmosphere correlated significantly with their emotional relationship with the cat (p = 0.015, r = 0.561), how often they saw the cat (p = 0.002, r = 0.676), and if they liked cats in general (p = 0.041, r = 0.486). Our results highlight the positive attitudes of inpatients and staff members toward ward cats and the potential of ward cats to enhance patient satisfaction. This influence might be mediated by factors such as the frequency of contact, the relationship between each patient and the cat, and each patient’s attitude toward cats in general.
Body Dissatisfaction in Adolescents: Differences by Sex, BMI and Type and Organisation of Physical Activity
Authors: Fernández-Bustos Juan Gregorio , Infantes-Paniagua Álvaro , Gonzalez-Martí Irene , Contreras-Jordán Onofre Ricardo
Published: August 2019

The aim of this study was to assess the differences in body dissatisfaction (BD) of male and female adolescents by body max index (BMI) and the quantity, type and organisation of physical activity (PA). To do so, 652 adolescents aged 12–17 years participated in a cross-sectional study. The cognitive-affective component of BD was assessed with the Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ) and the perceptual component with Gardner’s scale for the assessment of, body image (BI). PA was measured with the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ-SF) and the item 1 from the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Adolescents (PAQ-A). The results show that sex and BMI are key variables when determining BD. Moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) was moderately associated with a greater body satisfaction in males but no association was found between BD and the participation and organisation of PA. Moreover, the results suggest that participants in aesthetic/lean PA are at a higher risk of suffering from BD than participants in other PA types. These findings provide useful information for the design of programmes promoting healthy lifestyles, weight control and BI concern during the school period.
Observing Live Fish Improves Perceptions of Mood, Relaxation and Anxiety, But Does Not Consistently Alter Heart Rate or Heart Rate Variability
Authors: Gee Nancy R. , Reed Taylor , Whiting April , Friedmann Erika , Snellgrove Donna , Sloman Katherine A.
Published: August 2019

Although fish and other aquatic species are popular privately-kept pets, little is known about the effects of watching live fish on the perceptions of arousal and the link between those perceptions and physiological measures of arousal. In two separate experiments, participants were asked to watch identically-equipped fish tanks for five minutes in each of three conditions: (1) Live fish, (2) plants and water, and (3) empty tank. Linear mixed models used across both experiments revealed similar results: Greater perceptions of relaxation and mood, and less anxiety during or after viewing the live fish condition, compared with the other conditions. Heart rate and heart rate variability responded to the arousal associated with a math task, but did not differ consistently across viewing conditions. These results suggest that the link between perceptions of arousal, and the physiological measures associated with arousal, may not be strong or immediate, or that heart rate and heart rate variability may not be appropriate measures for the test population. Implications of these results for the biophilia hypothesis and the biopsychosocial model are discussed.
Effects of Prices on Youth Cigarette Smoking and Tobacco Use Initiation in Ghana and Nigeria
Authors: Asare Samuel , Stoklosa Michal , Drope Jeffrey , Larsen Aidan
Published: August 2019

Background: Population growth in the African region is set to outpace the rate of decline in smoking prevalence, leading to a projected increase in the total number of smokers. As most tobacco users initiate during their adolescent years, tobacco prevention strategies targeting youth will be particularly important. Methods: This study estimated the impact of cigarette prices on youth cigarette smoking and tobacco use initiation in Ghana and Nigeria using the Global Youth Tobacco Survey data. First, we used cross-section data and logit models to estimate the effects of prices on youth cigarette smoking. Second, we created pseudo longitudinal data and used continuous-time hazard models to evaluate the impact of cigarette prices on tobacco use initiation. Results: We found that higher cigarette prices decreased both 30-day cigarette smoking and tobacco use onset significantly in both Ghana and Nigeria. Additionally, the price elasticity of cigarette smoking and tobacco use initiation ranged from −0.44 to −1.13, and −1.04 to −3.66, respectively. Conclusions: As one of the first studies on youth tobacco consumption in Sub-Saharan Africa, this study strongly suggests that policies that increase real cigarette prices can lower both cigarette smoking and tobacco use initiation among youth in Ghana and Nigeria.
Can Replacing Sitting Time with Standing Time Improve Adolescents’ Cardiometabolic Health?
Authors: Moura Bruno P. , Rufino Rogério L. , Faria Ricardo C. , Sasaki Jeffer E. , Amorim Paulo Roberto S.
Published: August 2019

This study aimed to assess the effects of isotemporal replacement of sitting time (SIT) with standing (STA) on cardiometabolic biomarkers. In this cross-sectional study, male adolescents wore the GT3X+ activity monitor for 7 days to measure the SIT and STA. Moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) was estimated by a youth-specific cut-off point. An isotemporal substitution approach was used to examine the effects of replacing different periods of SIT (15, 30, 60, and 120 min) with STA on cardiometabolic biomarkers [total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), non-HDL-c, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c), triglycerides (TG), glucose, insulin, HOMA2-β, HOMA2-S, and HOMA2-IR]. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) with a post-hoc Bonferroni test was used to compare the adjusted means between the four subgroups that were clustered according to SIT and STA amount. Adolescents (n = 84; age, 16.7 ± 0.9 years) wore GT3X+ for 15.2 ± 2.3 h, for 6.7 ± 0.6 days. Isotemporal substitution of SIT with STA was associated with TC, non-HDL-c, LDL-c, and TG. ANCOVA results showed a statistically significant difference for TC, non-HDL-c, and LDL-c. These findings showed that for male adolescents, sitting less and standing more may be an effective alternative to reduce cardiometabolic biomarker levels related to lipid metabolism, regardless of MVPA.
Sub-Daily Simulation of Mountain Flood Processes Based on the Modified Soil Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) Model
Authors: Duan Yongchao , Meng Fanhao , Liu Tie , Huang Yue , Luo Min , Xing Wei , De Maeyer Philippe
Published: August 2019

Floods not only provide a large amount of water resources, but they also cause serious disasters. Although there have been numerous hydrological studies on flood processes, most of these investigations were based on rainfall-type floods in plain areas. Few studies have examined high temporal resolution snowmelt floods in high-altitude mountainous areas. The Soil Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model is a typical semi-distributed, hydrological model widely used in runoff and water quality simulations. The degree-day factor method used in SWAT utilizes only the average daily temperature as the criterion of snow melting and ignores the influence of accumulated temperature. Therefore, the influence of accumulated temperature on snowmelt was added by increasing the discriminating conditions of rain and snow, making that more suitable for the simulation of snowmelt processes in high-altitude mountainous areas. On the basis of the daily scale, the simulation of the flood process was modeled on an hourly scale. This research compared the results before and after the modification and revealed that the peak error decreased by 77% and the time error was reduced from ±11 h to ±1 h. This study provides an important reference for flood simulation and forecasting in mountainous areas.
Liver X Receptors and Their Implications in the Physiology and Pathology of the Peripheral Nervous System
Authors: Sundaram Venkat Krishnan , Massaad Charbel , Grenier Julien
Published: August 2019

Recent research in the last decade has sought to explore the role and therapeutic potential of Liver X Receptors (LXRs) in the physiology and pathologies of the Peripheral Nervous System. LXRs have been shown to be important in maintaining the redox homeostasis in peripheral nerves for proper myelination, and they regulate ER stress in sensory neurons. Furthermore, LXR stimulation has a positive impact on abrogating the effects of diabetic peripheral neuropathy and obesity-induced allodynia in the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS). This review details these findings and addresses certain important questions that are yet to be answered. The potential roles of LXRs in different cells of the PNS are speculated based on existing knowledge. The review also aims to provide important perspectives for further research in elucidating the role of LXRs and assessing the potential of LXR based therapies to combat pathologies of the Peripheral Nervous System.
Supplementation with Nicotinamide Riboside Reduces Brain Inflammation and Improves Cognitive Function in Diabetic Mice
Authors: Lee Hee Jae , Yang Soo Jin
Published: August 2019

The purpose of this study is to investigate whether nicotinamide riboside (NR) can improve inflammation and cognitive function in diabetic mice. ICR male mice were fed for 14 weeks with either high-fat chow diet (HF, 60% kcal fat) or standard chow diet (CON, 10% kcal fat). HF, streptozotocin, and nicotinamide were used to induce hyperglycemia. NR or vehicle was delivered via stomach gavage for six weeks. Oral glucose tolerance test, Y-maze test, and nest construction test were conducted before and after the NR treatment period. NR treatment induced down-regulation of NLRP3, ASC, and caspase-1. NR reduced IL-1 expression significantly by 50% in whole brains of hyperglycemic mice. Other inflammatory markers including TNF-α and IL-6 were also attenuated by NR. Brain expression of amyloid-β precursor protein and presenilin 1 were reduced by NR. In addition, NR induced significant reduction of amyloid-β in whole brains of diabetic mice. NR treatment restored hyperglycemia-induced increases in brain karyopyknosis to the levels of controls. Nest construction test showed that NR improved hippocampus functions. Spatial recognition memory and locomotor activity were also improved by NR supplementation. These findings suggest that NR may be useful for treating cognitive impairment by inhibiting amyloidogenesis and neuroinflammation.
Circularly Permuted Fluorescent Protein-Based Indicators: History, Principles, and Classification
Authors: Kostyuk Alexander I. , Demidovich Aleksandra D. , Kotova Daria A. , Belousov Vsevolod V. , Bilan Dmitry S.
Published: August 2019

Genetically encoded biosensors based on fluorescent proteins (FPs) are a reliable tool for studying the various biological processes in living systems. The circular permutation of single FPs led to the development of an extensive class of biosensors that allow the monitoring of many intracellular events. In circularly permuted FPs (cpFPs), the original N- and C-termini are fused using a peptide linker, while new termini are formed near the chromophore. Such a structure imparts greater mobility to the FP than that of the native variant, allowing greater lability of the spectral characteristics. One of the common principles of creating genetically encoded biosensors is based on the integration of a cpFP into a flexible region of a sensory domain or between two interacting domains, which are selected according to certain characteristics. Conformational rearrangements of the sensory domain associated with ligand interaction or changes in the cellular parameter are transferred to the cpFP, changing the chromophore environment. In this review, we highlight the basic principles of such sensors, the history of their creation, and a complete classification of the available biosensors.
The Role of the Surface Nano-Roughness on the Wettability Performance of Microstructured Metallic Surface Using Direct Laser Interference Patterning
Authors: Aguilar-Morales Alfredo I. , Alamri Sabri , Voisiat Bogdan , Kunze Tim , Lasagni Andrés F.
Published: August 2019

Superhydrophobic natural surfaces usually have multiple levels of structure hierarchy, particularly microstructures covered with nano-roughness. The multi-scale nature of such a surface reduces the wetting of water and oils, and supports self-cleaning properties. In this work, in order to broaden our understanding of the wetting properties of technical surfaces, biomimetic surface patterns were fabricated on stainless steel with single and multi-scale periodic structures using direct laser interference patterning (DLIP). Micropillars with a spatial period of 5.5 µm and a structural depth of 4.2 µm were fabricated and covered by a sub-micro roughness by using ultrashort laser pulses, thus obtaining a hierarchical geometry. In order to distinguish the influence of the different features on the wettability behavior, a nanosecond laser source was used to melt the nano-roughness, and thus to obtain single-scale patterns. Then, a systematic comparison between the single- and multi-scale structures was performed. Although, the treated surfaces showed hydrophilic behavior directly after the laser treatment, over time they reached a steady-state hydrophobic condition. However, the multi-scale structured metal showed a contact angle 31° higher than the single-scale geometry when the steady-state conditions were reached. Furthermore, the impact of the surface chemistry was investigated by energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analyses. Finally, a hydrophobizing agent was applied to the laser treated samples in order to further enhance the water contact angles and to determine the pure contribution of the surface topography. In the latter case, the multi-scale periodic microstructures reached static contact angles of 152° ± 2° and a contact angle hysteresis of only 4° ± 2°, while the single-scale structures did not show superhydrophobic behavior. These results definitely suggest that multi-scale DLIP structures in conjunction with a surface chemistry modification can promote a superhydrophobic regime.
Radiation Response of Negative Gate Biased SiC MOSFETs
Authors: Takeyama Akinori , Makino Takahiro , Okubo Shuichi , Tanaka Yuki , Yoshie Toru , Hijikata Yasuto , Ohshima Takeshi
Published: August 2019

Silicon carbide (SiC) metal-oxide-semiconductor field effect transistors (MOSFETs) are expected as power electronic devices for high radiative conditions, including nuclear plants and space. Radiation response of commercial-grade prototype SiC MOSFETs with applying the gate bias is of interest, in terms of installation of the device in robots or sensors working under such radioactive circumstances. Due to gamma-rays irradiation, the threshold voltages (Vth) of samples with un- and negative-biased up to −4.5 V slightly shift toward the negative voltage side. In contrast, the positive bias of 2.25 V shifts Vth more negatively. Positive charge densities trapped in the gate oxide of un- and positive-biased samples increased with increasing dose. However, no significant increase was observed for negative-biased samples of −2.25 and −4.5 V. We calculated characteristic parameters for the accumulation of holes in the gate oxide, σpJp which is defined as the product of current density due to holes generated by irradiation and capture cross section for a hole in a trap, and it is lower for these negative biased samples compared with the unbiased case. Application of appropriate negative gate biases to SiC MOSFETs during irradiation suppresses accumulation of positive charges in the gate oxide and negative shift of Vth, due to irradiation.
A Novel Self-Adaptive Control Method for Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation Processing of Aluminum Alloys
Authors: Yang Kai , Zeng Jiaquan , Huang Haisong , Chen Jiadui , Cao Biao
Published: August 2019

Plasma electrolytic oxidation processing is a novel promising surface modification approach for various materials. However, its large-scale application is still restricted, mainly due to the problem of high energy consumption of the plasma electrolytic oxidation processing. In order to solve this problem, a novel intelligent self-adaptive control technology based on real-time active diagnostics and on the precision adjustment of the process parameters was developed. Both the electrical characteristics of the plasma electrolytic oxidation process and the microstructure of the coating were investigated. During the plasma electrolytic oxidation process, the discharges are maintained in the soft-sparking regime and the coating exhibits a good uniformity and compactness. A total specific energy consumption of 1.8 kW h m−2 μm−1 was achieved by using such self-adaptive plasma electrolytic oxidation processing on pre-anodized 6061 aluminum alloy samples.
Analysis of the Machinability of Carbon Fiber Composite Materials in Function of Tool Wear and Cutting Parameters Using the Artificial Neural Network Approach
Authors: Feito Norberto , Muñoz-Sánchez Ana , Díaz-Álvarez Antonio , Loya José Antonio
Published: August 2019

Local delamination is the most undesirable damage associated with drilling carbon fiber reinforced composite materials (CFRPs). This defect reduces the structural integrity of the material, which affects the residual strength of the assembled components. A positive correlation between delamination extension and thrust force during the drilling process is reported in literature. The abrasive effect of the carbon fibers modifies the geometry of the fresh tool, which increases the thrust force and, in consequence, the induced damage in the workpiece. Using a control system based on an artificial neural network (ANN), an analysis of the influence of the tool wear in the thrust force during the drilling of CFRP laminate to reduce the damage is developed. The spindle speed, feed rate, and drill point angle are also included as input parameters of the study. The training and testing of the ANN model are carried out with experimental drilling tests using uncoated carbide helicoidal tools. The data were trained using error-back propagation-training algorithm (EBPTA). The use of the neural network rapidly provides results of the thrust force evolution in function of the tool wear and cutting parameters. The obtained results can be used by the industry as a guide to control the impact of the wear of the tool in the quality of the finished workpiece.
Effect of Hydrothermal Treatment with Distilled Water on Titanium Alloy for Epithelial Cellular Attachment
Authors: Sakamoto Yasushige , Ayukawa Yasunori , Furuhashi Akihiro , Kamo Michimasa , Ikeda Junji , Atsuta Ikiru , Haraguchi Takuya , Koyano Kiyoshi
Published: August 2019

The enhancement of oral epithelial adhesion to the trans-mucosal material of dental implants may improve their long-term stability. The aim of this study is to investigate whether hydrothermal treatment with distilled water (HT-DW) applied to a Ti-6Al-4V (Ti64) alloy could improve epithelial cellular attachment. We hypothesized that this treatment would enhance the adsorption of proteins and the adhesion of gingival epithelial GE1 cells. This treatment changed the surface crystal structure into an anatase type of titanium oxide without an apparent change of surface roughness or topography. Nitrogen was not detected on the HT-DW-treated Ti64, which indicates decontamination. HT-DW-treated Ti64 exhibited a hydrophilic surface with a less than 10° angle of water contact. Adsorption of laminin-332 to the HT-DW-treated Ti64 was significantly greater than that of the untreated Ti64 plates (64). The number of GE1 cells on the HT-DW-treated Ti64 at 1 and 3 days was significantly lower than that on 64; however, cell adhesion strength on HT-DW was greater, with a higher expression of integrin β4, compared with 64. This indicates that the HT-DW treatment of Ti64 improves the integration of GE1 cells, which might facilitate the development of a soft tissue barrier around the implant.
Preparation, Characterization and Intermediate-Temperature Electrochemical Properties of Er3+-Doped Barium Cerate–Sulphate Composite Electrolyte
Authors: Wu Fufang , Du Ruifeng , Hu Tianhui , Zhai Hongbin , Wang Hongtao
Published: August 2019

In this study, BaCe0.9Er0.1O3−α was synthesized by a microemulsion method. Then, a BaCe0.9Er0.1O3−α–K2SO4–BaSO4 composite electrolyte was obtained by compounding it with a K2SO4–Li2SO4 solid solution. BaCe0.9Er0.1O3−α and BaCe0.9Er0.1O3−α–K2SO4–BaSO4 were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Raman spectrometry. AC impedance spectroscopy was measured in a nitrogen atmosphere at 400–700 °C. The logσ~log (pO2) curves and fuel cell performances of BaCe0.9Er0.1O3−α and BaCe0.9Er0.1O3−α–K2SO4–BaSO4 were tested at 700 °C. The maximum output power density of BaCe0.9Er0.1O3−α–K2SO4–BaSO4 was 115.9 mW·cm−2 at 700 °C, which is ten times higher than that of BaCe0.9Er0.1O3−α.
Effect of Dry–Wet Ratio on Properties of Concrete Under Sulfate Attack
Authors: Guo Jin-Jun , Wang Kun , Guo Ting , Yang Zheng-Yun , Zhang Peng
Published: August 2019

In order to explore the drying–wetting cycle test method of concrete under sulfate accelerating erosion, the influence of dry–wet time ratio on concrete sulfate erosion was studied. Under the condition of 7 days for one cycle, five different dry–wet time ratios were designed: 1:3, 1:1, 3:1, 5:1, and 10:1. The basic properties such as compressive strength, splitting tensile strength and dynamic elastic modulus of concrete were tested. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to analyze the microstructure of concrete before and after erosion. The test results show that under the environment of sulfate drying–wetting cycle erosion, the change of mechanical properties of concrete are divided into three stages: ascending period, fluctuating period and rapid descending period. Concrete is subjected to periodic damage process of initial damage followed by filling compaction, cracking, further filling, and cracking again, in that order. Dry–wet ratio has a significant effect on concrete sulfate attack. Under the same drying–wetting cycle period, as the dry–wet ratio increases, the degree of deterioration of concrete by sulfate attack increases first and then decreases. When the dry–wet ratio is 5:1, the deterioration is the most serious.
Exhaled Breath Analysis in Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Finamore Panaiotis , Scarlata Simone , Cardaci Vittorio , Antonelli Incalzi Raffaele
Published: August 2019

Background and Objectives: Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) represents an independent risk factor for cardiovascular, metabolic and neurological events. Polysomnography is the gold-standard for the diagnosis, however is expensive and time-consuming and not suitable for widespread use. Breath analysis is an innovative, non-invasive technique, able to provide clinically relevant information about OSAS. This systematic review was aimed to outline available evidence on the role of exhaled breath analysis in OSAS, taking into account the techniques’ level of adherence to the recently proposed technical standards. Materials and Methods: Articles reporting original data on exhaled breath analysis in OSAS were identified through a computerized and manual literature search and screened. Duplicate publications, case reports, case series, conference papers, expert opinions, comments, reviews and meta-analysis were excluded. Results: Fractional exhaled Nitric Oxide (FeNO) is higher in OSAS patients than controls, however its absolute value is within reported normal ranges. FeNO association with AHI is controversial, as well as its change after continuous positive airway pressure (C-PAP) therapy. Exhaled breath condensate (EBC) is acid in OSAS, cytokines and oxidative stress markers are elevated, they positively correlate with AHI and normalize after treatment. The analysis of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) by spectrometry or electronic nose is able to discriminate OSAS from healthy controls. The main technical issues regards the dilution of EBC and the lack of external validation in VOCs studies. Conclusions: Exhaled breath analysis has a promising role in the understanding of mechanisms underpinning OSAS and has demonstrated a clinical relevance in identifying individuals affected by the disease, in assessing the response to treatment and, potentially, to monitor patient’s adherence to mechanical ventilation. Albeit the majority of the technical standards proposed by the ERS committee have been followed by existing papers, further work is needed to uniform the methodology.
Empathic Accuracy in Chronic Pain: Exploring Patient and Informal Caregiver Differences and Their Personality Correlates
Authors: Suso-Ribera Carlos , Martínez-Borba Verónica , Viciano Alejandro , Cano-García Francisco Javier , García-Palacios Azucena
Published: August 2019

Background and objectives: Social factors have demonstrated to affect pain intensity and quality of life of pain patients, such as social support or the attitudes and responses of the main informal caregiver. Similarly, pain has negative consequences on the patient’s social environment. However, it is still rare to include social factors in pain research and treatment. This study compares patient and caregivers’ accuracy, as well as explores personality and health correlates of empathic accuracy in patients and caregivers. Materials and Methods: The study comprised 292 chronic pain patients from the Pain Clinic of the Vall d’Hebron Hospital in Spain (main age = 59.4 years; 66.8% females) and their main informal caregivers (main age = 53.5 years; 51.0% females; 68.5% couples). Results: Patients were relatively inaccurate at estimating the interference of pain on their counterparts (t = 2.16; p = 0.032), while informal caregivers estimated well the patient’s status (all differences p > 0.05). Empathic accuracy on patient and caregiver status did not differ across types of relationship (i.e., couple or other; all differences p > 0.05). Sex differences in estimation only occurred for disagreement in pain severity, with female caregivers showing higher overestimation (t = 2.18; p = 0.030). Patients’ health status and caregivers’ personality were significant correlates of empathic accuracy. Overall, estimation was poorer when patients presented higher physical functioning. Similarly, caregiver had more difficulties in estimating the patient’s pain interference as patient general and mental health increased (r = 0.16, p = 0.008, and r = 0.15, p = 0.009, respectively). Caregiver openness was linked to a more accurate estimation of a patient’s status (r = 0.20, p < 0.001), while caregiver agreeableness was related to a patient’s greater accuracy of their caregivers’ pain interference (r = 0.15, p = 0.009). Conclusions: Patients poorly estimate the impact of their illness compared to caregivers, regardless of their relationship. Some personality characteristics in the caregiver and health outcomes in the patient are associated with empathic inaccuracy, which should guide clinicians when selecting who requires more active training on empathy in pain settings.
New e:b-Friedo-Hopane Type Triterpenoids from Euphorbia peplus with Simiarendiol Possessing Significant Cytostatic Activity against HeLa Cells by Induction of Apoptosis and S/G2 Cell Cycle Arrest
Authors: Yu Jin-Hai , Wu Dong-Xiang , Yu Zhi-Pu , Li Yu-Peng , Wang Yin-Yin , Yu Shu-Juan , Zhang Hua
Published: August 2019

Seven rare e:b-friedo-hopane-type triterpenoids including four new (1–4) and three known (5–7) ones with 5 being first reported as a natural product, together with five other known triterpenoids (8–12), were isolated from the nonpolar fractions of the ethanolic extract of Euphorbia peplus. Structural assignments for these compounds were based on spectroscopic analyses and quantum chemical computation method. The structural variations for the C-21 isopropyl group, including dehydrogenation (1 and 3) and hydroxylation at C-22 (simiarendiol, 2), were the first cases among e:b-friedo-hopane-type triterpenoids. Simiarendiol (2) bearing a 22-OH showed significant cytostatic activity against HeLa and A549 human tumor cell lines with IC50 values of 3.93 ± 0.10 and 7.90 ± 0.31 μM, respectively. The DAPI staining and flow cytometric analysis revealed that simiarendiol (2) effectively induced cell apoptosis and arrested cell cycle at the S/G2 phases in a dose-dependent manner in HeLa cells.