bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Oxidative Stress and Its Counteractive Utility in Colorectal Cancer (CRC)
Authors: Basak Debasish , Uddin Mohammad Nasir , Hancock Jake
Published: November 2020

An altered redox status accompanied by an elevated generation of reactive oxygen/nitrogen species (ROS/RNS) has been implicated in a number of diseases including colorectal cancer (CRC). CRC, being one of the most common cancers worldwide, has been reported to be associated with multiple environmental and lifestyle factors (e.g., dietary habits, obesity, and physical inactivity) and harboring heightened oxidative stress that results in genomic instability. Although under normal condition ROS regulate many signal transduction pathways including cell proliferation and survival, overwhelming of the antioxidant capacity due to metabolic abnormalities and oncogenic signaling leads to a redox adaptation response that imparts drug resistance. Nevertheless, excessive reliance on elevated production of ROS makes the tumor cells increasingly vulnerable to further ROS insults, and the abolition of such drug resistance through redox perturbation could be instrumental to preferentially eliminate them. The goal of this review is to demonstrate the evidence that links redox stress to the development of CRC and assimilate the most up-to-date information that would facilitate future investigation on CRC-associated redox biology. Concomitantly, we argue that the exploitation of this distinct biochemical property of CRC cells might offer a fresh avenue to effectively eradicate these cells.
Vapor-Phase Furfural Decarbonylation over a High-Performance Catalyst of 1%Pt/SBA-15
Authors: Yuan Qiang , Pang Jifeng , Yu Wenguang , Zheng Mingyuan
Published: November 2020

A high-performance Pt catalyst supported on SBA-15 was developed for furfural decarbonylation. Compared to Pt catalysts loaded on microporous DeAl-Hbeta zeolite and hierarchical micro-mesoporous MFI nanosheet (NS) materials, the 1%Pt/SBA-15 catalyst afforded notably higher activity, furan selectivity and stability owing to the negligible acid sites and proper mesopores on the SBA-15 support. Among a set of 1%Pt/SBA-15 catalysts bearing Pt nanoparticles (NPs) with sizes of 2.4–4.3 nm, the catalyst with 3.7 nm Pt NPs afforded the highest furan selectivity. Over the optimal catalyst, 88.6% furan selectivity and ca. 90% furfural conversion were obtained at 573 K and a high weight hourly space velocity (WHSV) of 16.5 h−1. Moreover, the reaction temperatures at 440–573 K and the ratios of H2 to furfural at 0.79–9.44 did not affect the reaction selectivity notably, showing that the reaction over 1%Pt/SBA-15 can be conducted over a wide range of conditions. The catalyst was stable under the harsh reaction conditions and lasted for 90 h without significant deactivation, demonstrating the superior property of SBA-15 as a catalyst support for furfural decarbonylation.
H2 Transformations on Graphene Supported Palladium Cluster: DFT-MD Simulations and NEB Calculations
Authors: Ferrante Francesco , Prestianni Antonio , Bertini Marco , Duca Dario
Published: November 2020

Molecular dynamics simulations based on density functional theory were employed to investigate the fate of a hydrogen molecule shot with different kinetic energy toward a hydrogenated palladium cluster anchored on the vacant site of a defective graphene sheet. Hits resulting in H2 adsorption occur until the cluster is fully saturated. The influence of H content over Pd with respect to atomic hydrogen spillover onto graphene was investigated. Calculated energy barriers of ca. 1.6 eV for H-spillover suggest that the investigated Pd/graphene system is a good candidate for hydrogen storage.
Structural and Functional Analysis of the Only Two Pyridoxal 5′-Phosphate-Dependent Fold Type IV Transaminases in Bacillus altitudinis W3
Authors: Zhai Lixin , Xie Zihao , Tian Qiaopeng , Guan Zhengbing , Cai Yujie , Liao Xiangru
Published: November 2020

Aminotransferases are employed as industrial biocatalysts to produce chiral amines with high enantioselectivity and yield. BpTA-1 and BpTA-2 are the only two pyridoxal 5′-phosphate-dependent fold type IV transaminase enzymes in Bacillus altitudinis W3. Herein, we compared the structures and biochemical characteristics of BpTA-1 and BpTA-2 using bioinformatic analysis, circular dichroism spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy and other approaches. BpTA-1 and BpTA-2 are similar overall; both form homodimers and utilize a catalytic lysine. However, there are distinct differences in the substrate cofactor-binding pocket, molecular weight and the proportion of the secondary structure. Both enzymes have the same stereoselectivity but different enzymatic properties. BpTA-2 is more active under partial alkaline and ambient temperature conditions and BpTA-1 is more sensitive to pH and temperature. BpTA-2 as novel enzyme not only fills the building blocks of transaminase but also has broader industrial application potential for (R)-α-phenethylamines than BpTA-1. Structure-function relationships were explored to assess similarities and differences. The findings lay the foundation for modifying these enzymes via protein engineering to enhance their industrial application potential.
Identifying Loss of Control Eating within Childhood Obesity: The Importance of Family Environment and Child Psychological Distress
Authors: Sepúlveda Ana Rosa , Lacruz Tatiana , Solano Santos , Blanco Miriam , Moreno Alba , Rojo Marta , Beltrán Lucía , Graell Montserrat
Published: November 2020

This study aims to examine the differences in family environment, psychological distress, and disordered eating symptomatology between children classified by weight status with or without loss of control (LOC) eating and to test a model of the role of emotional regulation of LOC eating based on a dysfunctional family environment. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 239 families. The assessment measured family expressed emotion, family adaptability and cohesion, child levels of depression and anxiety, body esteem, and disordered eating attitudes. The assessment was carried out in primary care centers and primary schools. Child body mass index (BMI) was associated with higher expressed emotion, psychological distress, and disordered eating symptomatology. Children with obesity and LOC presented higher BMI, poorer body esteem, and more disordered eating attitudes than children without LOC. Children with overweight/obesity, both with or without LOC, exhibited higher psychological distress and emotional overinvolvement than normal-weight children. A partial mediation of depression or anxiety and disordered eating attitudes between expressed emotion and LOC was found. Findings support that children with overweight/obesity show more family and psychological distress. Body esteem issues and disordered eating attitudes could alert the presence of LOC in children with obesity. The function of LOC might be to cope with psychological distress that may appear in a dysfunctional family environment.
Are Individuals with Low Trait Anxiety Better Suited to On-Call Work?
Authors: Sprajcer Madeline , Jay Sarah M , Vincent Grace E , Zhou Xuan , Vakulin Andrew , Lack Leon , Ferguson Sally A
Published: November 2020

Research has indicated that individuals with certain traits may be better suited to shiftwork and non-standard working arrangements. However, no research has investigated how individual differences impact on-call outcomes. As such, this study investigated the impact of trait anxiety on sleep and performance outcomes on-call. Seventy male participants (20–35 years) completed an adaptation night, a control night, and two on-call nights in a laboratory. Trait anxiety was determined using the State Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) X-2, and participants completed the STAI X-1 prior to bed each night to assess state anxiety. Sleep was measured using polysomnography and quantitative electroencephalographic analysis. Performance was assessed using a 10-min psychomotor vigilance task (PVT) performed each day at 0930, 1200, 1430 and 1700 h. Data pooled from three separate but inter-related studies was used for these analyses. Results indicated that the effects of trait anxiety on state anxiety, sleep and performance outcomes on-call were generally limited. These findings suggest that on-call outcomes are not negatively affected by higher levels of trait anxiety.
Flavonoids Profile, Taxonomic Data, History of Cosmetic Uses, Anti-Oxidant and Anti-Aging Potential of Alpinia galanga (L.) Willd
Authors: Tungmunnithum Duangjai , Tanaka Nobuyuki , Uehara Ayumi , Iwashina Tsukasa
Published: November 2020

Alpinia galanga is a well-known medicinal plant in Southeast Asia and has been used for a long time as food and medicine. A large number of flavonoid phytochemical compounds have been identified in various parts of this medicinal herb. Flavonoids are commonly known as attractive compounds that can be applied to cosmetic or cosmeceutical product development because of their antioxidant, anti-aging and many other potential biological activities. This recent review aims to illustrate and update the taxonomic status as well as the species description that will be helpful for a rigorous identification and authenticate the raw material or living specimen from A. galanga. The flavonoid phytochemical compounds and the bioactivity of this medicinal plant are also provided. The future perspectives and research directions of A. galanga and its flavonoids are pointed out in this study as well.
Another Player in the Field: Involvement of Glycotoxins and Glycosative Stress in Insulin Secretion and Resistance
Authors: Matafome Paulo
Published: November 2020

The term glycotoxins includes the group of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) and their precursors, most of them highly reactive intermediary compounds, such as methylglyoxal (MG). Glycotoxins were initially thought to participate in the development of diabetic complications because of their increased formation from glucose. However, they also form and accumulate in tissues since the early stages of disease, such as metabolically unhealthy obesity and prediabetes. Such accumulation has been suggested to result from dysregulated activity of detoxification systems, such as the glyoxalase system, as well as increased dietary consumption, namely from high-glucose and high-fructose foods processed at high temperatures. Although some studies may have used supraphysiological doses, in vitro systems and animal models have shown glycotoxin-induced insulin resistance. Moreover, dietary glycotoxin restriction was shown to improve insulin resistance in humans and glyoxalase (GLO)-1 upregulation improved insulin sensitivity and metabolic function. This review summarizes the current knowledge about glycotoxin involvement in the development of insulin resistance, the mechanisms involved and the usefulness of GLO-1 modulation, and a possible therapeutic strategy to improve insulin sensitivity.
Consensus on the Application of Lung Ultrasound in Pneumonia and Bronchiolitis in Children
Authors: Jaworska Joanna , Komorowska-Piotrowska Anna , Pomiećko Andrzej , Wiśniewski Jakub , Woźniak Mariusz , Littwin Błażej , Kryger Magdalena , Kwaśniewicz Piotr , Szczyrski Józef , Kulińska-Szukalska Katarzyna , Buda Natalia , Doniec Zbigniew , Kosiak Wojciech
Published: November 2020

This evidence-based consensus aims to establish the role of point-of-care lung ultrasound in the management of pneumonia and bronchiolitis in paediatric patients. A panel of thirteen experts form five Polish tertiary pediatric centres was involved in the development of this document. The literature search was done in PubMed database. Statements were established based on a review of full-text articles published in English up to December 2019. The development of this consensus was conducted according to the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations)—adopted and Delphi method. Initially, 22 proposed statements were debated over 3 rounds of on-line discussion and anonymous voting sessions. A total of 17 statements were agreed upon, including four statements referring to general issues, nine referring to pneumonia and four to bronchiolitis. For five statements experts did not achieve an agreement. The evidence supporting each statement was evaluated to assess the strength of each statement. Overall, eight statements were rated strong, five statements moderate, and four statements weak. For each statement, experts provided their comments based on the literature review and their own experience. This consensus is the first to establish the role of lung ultrasound in the diagnosis and management of pneumonia and bronchiolitis in children as an evidence-based method of imaging.
Longitudinal Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Cerebral Microbleeds in Multiple Sclerosis Patients
Authors: Subramanian Karthikeyan , Utriainen David , Ramasamy Deepa P. , Sethi Sean K. , Schweser Ferdinand , Beaver John , Hagemeier Jesper , Weinstock-Guttman Bianca , Rajagovindan Rajasimhan , Zivadinov Robert , Haacke Ewart Mark
Published: November 2020

We hypothesized that cerebral microbleeds (CMBs) in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients will be detected with higher prevalence compared to healthy controls (HC) and that quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) will help remove false positives seen in susceptibility weighted imaging (SWI). A cohort of 100 relapsing remitting MS subjects scanned at 3T were used to validate a set of CMB detection guidelines specifically using QSM. A second longitudinal cohort of 112 MS and 25 HCs, also acquired at 3T, was reviewed across two time points. Both cohorts were imaged with SWI and fluid attenuated inversion recovery. Fourteen subjects in the first cohort (14%, 95% CI 8–21%) and twenty-one subjects in the second cohort (18.7%, 95% CI 11–27%) had at least one CMB. The combined information from SWI and QSM allowed us to discern stable CMBs and new CMBs from potential mimics and evaluate changes over time. The longitudinal results demonstrated that longer disease duration increased the chance to develop new CMBs. Higher age was also associated with increased CMB prevalence for MS and HC. We observed that MS subjects developed new CMBs between time points, indicating the need for longitudinal quantitative imaging of CMBs.
Exosomes in Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Zarà Marta , Amadio Patrizia , Campodonico Jeness , Sandrini Leonardo , Barbieri Silvia S.
Published: November 2020

Exosomes are nano-sized biovesicles of endocytic origin physiologically released by nearly all cell types into surrounding body fluids. They carry cell-specific cargos of protein, lipids, and genetic materials and can be selectively taken up by neighboring or distant cells. Since the intrinsic properties of exosomes are strictly influenced by the state of the parental cell and by the cellular microenvironment, the analysis of exosome origin and content, and their cell-targeting specificity, make them attractive as possible diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers. While the possible role of exosomes as messengers and a regenerative tool in cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) is actively investigated, the evidence about their usefulness as biomarkers is still limited and incomplete. Further complications are due to the lack of consensus regarding the most appropriate approach for exosome isolation and characterization, both important issues for their effective clinical translation. As a consequence, in this review, we will discuss the few information currently accessible about the diagnostic/prognostic potential of exosomes in CVDs and on the methodologies available for exosome isolation, analysis, and characterization.
Laser Analgesia Associated with Restorative Dental Care: A Systematic Review of the Rationale, Techniques, and Energy Dose Considerations
Authors: Poli Riccardo , Parker Steven , Anagnostaki Eugenia , Mylona Valina , Lynch Edward , Grootveld Martin
Published: November 2020

It is a common experience amongst laser dentists and patients that mid-IR wavelength application in cavity preparation may be achieved without causing any associated pain. The erbium family of lasers (Er,Cr:YSGG 2780 nm and Er:YAG 2940 nm) are frequently used without employing injectable local anesthesia as an adjunct: the phenomenon arising from the application of these devices is known as laser analgesia. This review seeks to apply a systematic approach to the examination of appropriate published studies but also to highlight the need for much more structured clinical investigations that consolidate photonic dose and methodology. A search of published data using PRISMA criteria was carried out to examine clinical trials into laser analgesia in conjunction with restorative dentistry, applying inclusion and exclusion criteria. From this, 10 published articles were selected for analysis. Suitability assessment was carried out, using a modified Cochrane risk of bias methodology. In 8/10 of the included studies, laser-induced analgesia is claimed to be better and effective, while in 2/10 of the studies, no difference was exhibited compared to the control group. Statistical analysis of three split mouth studies concluded that only one of these investigations reviewed demonstrated a significant analgesic effect for laser treatment while the other two did not support this observation. From this data, it is inconclusive to assess the predictability of laser analgesia in cavity preparation. A possible rationale and laser operating parametry has been discussed. Successful implementation of this treatment modality remains technique sensitive and subject to further investigation.
Relationship between Personality and Academic Motivation in Education Degrees Students
Authors: Fuertes Ana María de Caso , Blanco Fernández Jana , García Mata Mª de los Ángeles , Rebaque Gómez Alfredo , Pascual Rocío García
Published: November 2020

The present study aims to understand the relationship between the big five factors of personality and academic motivation. In addition, the following variables are taken into consideration; sex, age and type of educational studies. A quantitative methodology is used, in base to a not experimental, correlational study. The sample is composed of 514 students of the Faculty of Education of Leon’s University, between the three education degrees. To gather the information, participants were asked to complete the Learning and Motivation Strategies Questionnaire (CEAM) and the Personality Questionnaire Five Factor Inventory (NEO-FFI). The results show the significant relationship between personality facets and motivation variables. It should be noted that female results were higher in the values of intrinsic motivation, motivation towards teamwork, neuroticism, and kindness, and the male results were higher in self-efficacy. Additionally, it was observed that intrinsic motivation decreases progressively from the first to the fourth year of the degree, the need for recognition decreases in the two last study years, and the openness to experiences is higher in the last year of the degree. Finally, Social Education students are those that show a higher intrinsic motivation, self-efficacy, total motivation, openness to experiences, and neuroticism, while Primary Education students’ results were higher in the need for recognition.
Dialogic Teaching during Cooperative Inquiry-Based Science: A Case Study of a Year 6 Classroom
Authors: Gillies Robyn M.
Published: November 2020

Teachers play a critical role in promoting dialogic interaction in their students. The purpose of this case study was to investigate how one very effective teacher taught two, cooperative, inquiry-based science units to her Year 6 class. In particular, the case study focused on how she used different discourses to capture students’ curiosity in the inquiry-based tasks, provided hands-on activities to enable them to test out their hypotheses and develop explanations for what they found in order to help them become more scientifically literate and have a broader understanding of the role of science in the world in which they live. The results showed that the students engaged constructively with their peers on the inquiry group tasks; they used the correct scientific language to discuss phenomena, make claims, and compared findings. Furthermore, they became more adept at expressing their opinions and providing explanations and justifications for the ‘scientific’ positions they had adopted across the six inquiry-based science lessons; core cognitive practices that support learning. This case study highlights the importance of utilizing both authoritative and dialogic discourse to challenge and scaffold students’ thinking to support enhanced understandings and reasoned argumentation during inquiry-based science. This case study fills a gap in the literature on how teachers can utilize different communicative approaches during inquiry-based science units to promote student engagement and learning.
Numerical Simulation Analysis of Switching Characteristics in the Source-Trench MOSFET’s
Authors: Cheon Jinhee , Kim Kwangsoo
Published: November 2020

In this paper, we compare the static and switching characteristics of the 4H-SiC conventional UMOSFET (C-UMOSFET), double trench MOSFET (DT-MOSFET) and source trench MOSFET (ST-MOSFET) through TCAD simulation. In particular, the effect of the trenched source region and the gate trench bottom P+ shielding region on the capacitance is analyzed, and the dynamic characteristics of the three structures are compared. The input capacitance is almost identical in all three structures. On the other hand, the reverse transfer capacitance of DT-MOSFET and ST-MOSFET is reduced by 44% and 24%, respectively, compared to C-UMOSFET. Since the reverse transfer capacitance of DT-MOSFET and ST-MOSFET is superior to that of C-UMOSFET, it improves high frequency figure of merit (HF-FOM: RON-SP × QGD). The HF-FOM of DT-MOSFET and ST-MOSFET is 289 mΩ∙nC, 224 mΩ∙nC, respectively, which is improved by 26% and 42% compared to C-UMOSFET. The switching speed of DT-MOSFET and ST-MOSFET are maintained at the same level as the C-UMOSFET. The switching energy loss and power loss of the DT-MOSFET and ST-MOSFET are slightly improved compared to C-UMOSFET.
A Low-Cost Improved Method of Raw Bit Error Rate Estimation for NAND Flash Memory of High Storage Density
Authors: Ma Kainan , Liu Ming , Li Tao , Yin Yibo , Chen Hongda
Published: November 2020

Cells wear fast in NAND flash memory of high storage density (HSD), so it is very necessary to have a long-term frequent in-time monitoring on its raw bit error rate (RBER) changes through a fast RBER estimation method. As the flash of HSD already has relatively lower reading speed, the method should not further degrade its read performance. This paper proposes an improved estimation method utilizing known data comparison, includes interleaving to balance the uneven error distribution in the flash of HSD, a fast RBER estimation module to make the estimated RBER highly linearly correlated with the actual RBER, and enhancement strategies to accelerate the decoding convergence of low-density parity-check (LDPC) codes and thereby make up the rate penalty caused by the known data. Experimental results show that when RBER is close to the upper bound of LDPC code, the reading efficiency can be increased by 35.8% compared to the case of no rate penalty. The proposed method only occupies 0.039mm2 at 40nm process condition. Hence, the fast, read-performance-improving, and low-cost method is of great application potential on RBER monitoring in the flash of HSD.
Stillbirth Risk during the 1918 Influenza Pandemic in Arizona, USA
Authors: Khare Smriti , Dahal Sushma , Luo Ruiyan , Rothenberg Richard , Mizumoto Kenji , Chowell Gerardo
Published: November 2020

The 1918 influenza pandemic, the deadliest pandemic on record, affected approximately 1/3rd of the population worldwide. The impact of this pandemic on stillbirth risk has not been studied in depth. In this study, we assessed the stillbirth risk during the 1918 influenza pandemic in Arizona, USA. We carried out a retrospective study using 21,334 birth records for Maricopa County, Arizona, for the period 1915–1925. We conducted logistic regression analyses to assess the effect of that pandemic on stillbirth risk. Though we did not find a statistically significant impact on stillbirth risk during the pandemic, there was a higher risk of stillbirth in July 1919 (42 stillbirths/1000 births), 9 months after the peak pandemic mortality, and a stillbirth risk of 1.42 (95% CI: 1.17, 1.72) in women ≥35 years compared to the women aged <35 years. The risk of stillbirth was lowest if the mother’s age was approximately 26 years at the time of birth. We also report peaks in stillbirth risk 9–10 months after the peak pandemic mortality. Our findings add to our current understanding of the link between pandemic influenza and stillbirth risk.
Developing Behavioral and Evidence-Based Programs for Wildfire Risk Mitigation
Authors: Byerly Hilary , Meldrum James R. , Brenkert-Smith Hannah , Champ Patricia , Gomez Jamie , Falk Lilia , Barth Chris
Published: November 2020

The actions of residents in the wildland–urban interface can influence the private and social costs of wildfire. Wildfire programs that encourage residents to take action are often delivered without evidence of effects on behavior. Research from the field of behavioral science shows that simple, often low-cost changes to program design and delivery can influence socially desirable behaviors. In this research report, we highlight how behavioral science and experimental design may advance efforts to increase wildfire risk mitigation on private property. We offer an example in which we tested changes in outreach messaging on property owners’ interest in wildfire risk information. In partnership with a regional wildfire organization, we mailed 4564 letters directing property owners to visit personalized wildfire risk webpages. By tracking visitation, we observed that 590 letter recipients (12%) sought information about their wildfire risk and response varied by community. This research–practice collaboration has three benefits: innovation in outreach, evidence of innovation through experimental design, and real impacts on interest in wildfire mitigation among property owners. Future collaborations may inform behavioral and evidence-based programs to better serve residents and the public interest as the risks from wildfires are projected to grow.
Effect of an Olive Vegetation Water Phenolic Extract on the Physico-Chemical, Microbiological and Sensory Traits of Shrimp (Parapenaeus longirostris) during the Shelf-Life
Authors: Miraglia Dino , Castrica Marta , Menchetti Laura , Esposto Sonia , Branciari Raffaella , Ranucci David , Urbani Stefania , Sordini Beatrice , Veneziani Gianluca , Servili Maurizio
Published: November 2020

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of phenolic extract derived from olive vegetation water (PEOVW) in deep-water rose shrimps (Parapenaeus longirostris) at the day of packaging (D0) and after three (D3), six (D6) and eight (D8) days of refrigerated storage. Freshly caught shrimps were randomly divided into four groups: the phenolic extract (PE) group (2 g/L of phenols); the sulfites (S) group (0.5% sodium metabisulfite solution); the phenolic extract + sulfites (PE + S) group (0.25% sodium metabisulfite solution with 1 g/L of phenols), and the control (CTRL) group (tap water). Concerning color coordinates, there were no variations either between groups or over time, while it is important to highlight that phenolic extract (PE group) led to a significant reduction in total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N; p < 0.001) and thiobarbituric reactive substances (TBARS; p < 0.001) values. Furthermore, PE also had a relevant effect in reducing bacterial counts and decreasing the microbial development. Finally, as concerns melanosis, the effect of phenolic extract alone was marginal, but when combined with half a dose of sodium metabisulfite, it was as effective as the shrimps treated with only sodium metabisulfite in delaying black spots (p < 0.05). These results are very promising with a view to commercializing additive-free shrimps.
Relationship between Oxygen Uptake, Heart Rate, and Perceived Effort in an Aquatic Incremental Test in Older Women
Authors: Andrade Luana Siqueira , Kanitz Ana Carolina , Häfele Mariana Silva , Schaun Gustavo Zaccaria , Pinto Stephanie Santana , Alberton Cristine Lima
Published: November 2020

Different parameters can be used to control the intensity of aerobic exercises, a choice that should consider the population and exercise environment targeted. Therefore, our study aimed to verify the relationship between oxygen uptake (VO2), heart rate (HR), rating of perceived exertion (RPE), and cadence during an aquatic incremental test in older women. Nine older women (64.3 ± 4.4 years) engaged in a water-based aerobic training performed an aquatic incremental test using the stationary running exercise (cadence increases of 15 b·min−1 every 2 min) until participants’ volitional exhaustion. VO2, HR, and RPE data were measured, and the percentage of peak VO2 (%VO2peak) and percentage of maximal HR (%HRmax) were calculated. Linear and polynomial regression analyses were performed (α = 0.05). Polynomial regressions revealed the best adjustments for all analyses. Data showed a significant relationship (p < 0.001) between %VO2peak and %HRmax (r = 0.921), %VO2peak and RPE (r = 0.870), and %HRmax and RPE (r = 0.878). Likewise, significant relationships between cadence (p < 0.001) and %VO2peak (r = 0.873), %HRmax (r = 0.874), and RPE (r = 0.910) were also observed. In summary, the physiological, subjective, and mechanical variables investigated were highly associated during an aquatic incremental test to exhaustion in older women. Therefore, these different parameters can be employed to adequately prescribe water-based programs according to preference and availability.
Effectiveness of a Group-Based Progressive Strength Training in Primary Care to Improve the Recurrence of Low Back Pain Exacerbations and Function: A Randomised Trial
Authors: Calatayud Joaquín , Guzmán-González Benjamín , Andersen Lars L. , Cruz-Montecinos Carlos , Morell María Teresa , Roldán Ricardo , Ezzatvar Yasmín , Casaña José
Published: November 2020

Low back pain (LBP) is the leading cause of disability and one of the most common reasons for physician visits in primary care, with a 33% rate of recurrence during the first year. However, the most optimal exercise program in this context remains unknown. The objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of a group-based progressive strength training program in non-specific chronic LBP (CLBP) patients in primary care on pain recurrence and physical function. Eighty-five patients with non-specific CLBP were separated into two groups (Intervention group: completed a progressive strength training program 3 days per week for 8 weeks; Control group: received the usual care). The intervention group showed a recurrence rate of 8.3%, while the control group had a recurrence rate of 33.3% and a shorter time until the first recurrent episode. The intervention group showed increased lumbar extensor strength, left-hand handgrip strength, and reduced the number of pain sites compared with the control group. Results also showed greater odds for reducing LBP intensity and disability in the intervention group. In conclusion, a group-based progressive strength training program is a more effective and efficient alternative than Back-School programs and can easily be carried out in the primary health care context.
Long-Term Effects of a Cognitive Behavioral Conference Call Intervention on Depression in Non-Professional Caregivers
Authors: Lopez Lara , Vázquez Fernando L. , Torres Ángela J. , Otero Patricia , Blanco Vanessa , Díaz Olga , Páramo Mario
Published: November 2020

Recent evidence supports the efficacy of conference call cognitive–behavioral interventions in preventing depression in caregivers at post-intervention, but we do not know whether the results are sustained long term. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the long-term efficacy of a cognitive–behavioral intervention administered by telephone conference call in preventing depression in caregivers with elevated depressive symptoms, comparing all components of the intervention versus only the behavioral ones. A randomized controlled trial was conducted using a dismantling strategy. At total of 219 caregivers were randomly assigned to a cognitive–behavioral conference call intervention (CBCC; n = 69), a behavioral-activation conference call intervention (BACC; n = 70), or a usual care control group (CG, n = 80). Information was collected on depressive symptoms and depression at pre-intervention and at 1, 3, 6, 12, and 36 months post-intervention. At 36 months, there was a reduction in depressive symptoms (p < 0.001) and a lower incidence of major depressive episodes in both the CBCC and BACC groups compared to CG (8.7%, 8.6%, and 33.7%, respectively). The results show that a conference call intervention was effective in the long term to prevent depression in caregivers and that the behavioral-activation component was comparable to the complete cognitive–behavioral protocol.
Children’s Environmental Health: A Systems Approach for Anticipating Impacts from Chemicals
Authors: Cohen Hubal Elaine A. , Reif David M. , Slover Rachel , Mullikin Ashley , Little John C.
Published: November 2020

Increasing numbers of chemicals are on the market and present in consumer products. Emerging evidence on the relationship between environmental contributions and prevalent diseases suggests associations between early-life exposure to manufactured chemicals and a wide range of children’s health outcomes. Using current assessment methodologies, public health and chemical management decisionmakers face challenges in evaluating and anticipating the potential impacts of exposure to chemicals on children’s health in the broader context of their physical (built and natural) and social environments. Here, we consider a systems approach to address the complexity of children’s environmental health and the role of exposure to chemicals during early life, in the context of nonchemical stressors, on health outcomes. By advancing the tools for integrating this more complex information, the scope of considerations that support chemical management decisions can be extended to include holistic impacts on children’s health.
Knowledge and Attitude towards Retrograde Peri-Implantitis among Italian Implantologists: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Di Murro Bianca , Pranno Nicola , Raco Andrea , Pistilli Roberto , Pompa Giorgio , Papi Piero
Published: November 2020

Background: Retrograde peri-implantitis (RPI) is a pathological entity with an unclear etiology (e.g., overheating during implant insertion, residual infection of the tooth replaced by the implant or the endodontic lesion of neighboring teeth) and an extremely low prevalence and has been scarcely investigated. Therefore, the aim of this cross-sectional survey was to evaluate the knowledge and attitude of Italian implantologists regarding RPI. Methods: An anonymous questionnaire was sent via email to implantologists randomly selected, including a section about demographic information and questions related to RPI origin, radiographic representation, symptoms and treatment options. All questions were multiple answer and close-ended. Binomial logistic regression was performed to investigate the relationship between correct answers and the following independent variables: age, years of experience and number of dental implants placed per year. Results: In total, 475 implantologists completed the questionnaire, with a response rate of 46.3%. Based on the results of the study, incorrect answers were associated with less experienced participants (<80 implants/year) for all questions evaluated, with the exception of treatment strategies. Furthermore, 26.7% of the survey takers did not recognize radiographic representation of RPI and 35.5% picked “implant removal” when asked about treatment modality. Conclusions: The majority of participants were able to recognize symptoms and indicated the probable causes of RPI; however, around 30% of them showed very limited knowledge of available management strategies.
Validation and Measurement Invariance of the Scale of Positive and Negative Experience (SPANE) in a Spanish General Sample
Authors: Espejo Begoña , Checa Irene , Perales-Puchalt Jaime , Lisón Juan Francisco
Published: November 2020

Well-being has been measured based on different perspectives in positive psychology. However, it is necessary to measure affects and emotions correctly and to explore the independence of positive and negative affect. This cross-sectional study adapts and validates the Scale of Positive and Negative Experience (SPANE) with a non-probabilistic sample of 821 Spanish adults. A confirmatory factor analysis confirmed two related factors with two correlated errors. The average variance extracted was 0.502 for negative affect (SPANE-N) and 0.588 for positive affect (SPANE-P). The composite reliability was 0.791 for SPANE-N and 0.858 for SPANE-P. Measurement invariance analysis showed evidence of scalar invariance. Item-total corrected polyserial correlations showed values between 0.47 and 0.76. The path analysis used to test temporal stability, and the structural equation models used to test convergent and concurrent validity with other well-being measures, showed good fit. All path coefficients were statistically significant and over 0.480. For the validity models, the magnitude of the correlations was large and in the expected direction. The Spanish version of the SPANE show good psychometric properties. Future studies of emotional well-being in Spain can benefit from the use of this scale, and new studies must test cross-cultural invariance.
Influencing Mechanism of Job Satisfaction on Safety Behavior of New Generation of Construction Workers Based on Chinese Context: The Mediating Roles of Work Engagement and Safety Knowledge Sharing
Authors: Ni Guodong , Zhu Yuanyuan , Zhang Ziyao , Qiao Yaning , Li Huaikun , Xu Na , Deng Yongliang , Yuan Zhenmin , Wang Wenshun
Published: November 2020

China’s construction industry developed rapidly and safety production has become a vital issue. Improving the safety behavior of construction workers is an important measure to effectively decrease construction safety accidents. At present, a New Generation of Construction Workers (NGCWs) born after 1980 has gradually become the main force of construction companies in China and the special group characteristics coming from the intergenerational difference may make them behave differently in safety-related activities, therefore, it is very important to study how to promote their safety behavior. This paper aimed to explore the influencing mechanism of job satisfaction on the safety behavior of NGCWs and examine the mediating role of safety knowledge sharing and work engagement. Confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling analysis were applied to test the theoretical model. Empirical research results indicated that job satisfaction can effectively promote safety behavior through safety knowledge sharing and work engagement. Safety knowledge sharing plays a complete mediating role between job satisfaction and safety compliance behavior, as well as between job satisfaction and safety participation behavior. Moreover, work engagement plays a complete mediating role between job satisfaction and safety participation behavior, which can provide valuable management references for China’s construction companies to strengthen their safety behavior.
Brief Relaxation Practice Induces Significantly More Prefrontal Cortex Activation during Arithmetic Tasks Comparing to Viewing Greenery Images as Revealed by Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS)
Authors: Zhang Zhisong , Olszewska-Guizzo Agnieszka , Husain Syeda Fabeha , Bose Jessica , Choi Jongkwan , Tan Wanqiu , Wang Jiayun , Xuan Tran Bach , Wang Bokun , Jin Yajie , Xuan Wei , Yan Pinjia , Li Maomao , Ho Cyrus S. H. , Ho Roger
Published: November 2020

Background: There is little understanding on how brief relaxation practice and viewing greenery images would affect brain responses during cognitive tasks. In the present study, we examined the variation in brain activation of the prefrontal cortex during arithmetic tasks before and after viewing greenery images, brief relaxation practice, and control task using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). Method: This randomized controlled study examined the activation patterns of the prefrontal cortex (PFC) in three groups of research participants who were exposed to viewing greenery images (n = 10), brief relaxation practice (n = 10), and control task (n = 11). The activation pattern of the PFC was measured pre- and post-intervention using a portable fNIRS device and reported as mean total oxygenated hemoglobin (HbO μm). Primary outcome of the study is the difference in HbO μm between post- and pre-intervention readings during a cognitive task that required the research participants to perform arithmetic calculation. Results: In terms of intervention-related differences, there was significant difference in average HbO μm when performing arithmetic tasks before and after brief relaxation practice (p < 0.05). There were significant increases in average HbO μm in the right frontopolar cortex (p = 0.029), the left frontopolar cortex (p = 0.01), and the left orbitofrontal cortex (p = 0.033) during arithmetic tasks after brief relaxation practice. In contrast, there were no significant differences in average HbO μm when performing arithmetic tasks before and after viewing greenery images (p > 0.05) and the control task (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Our preliminary findings show that brief relaxation practice but not viewing greenery images led to significant frontal lobe activation during arithmetic tasks. The present study demonstrated, for the first time, that there was an increase in activation in neuroanatomical areas including the combined effort of allocation of attentional resources, exploration, and memory performance after the brief relaxation practice. Our findings suggest the possibility that the right frontopolar cortex, the left frontopolar cortex, and the left orbitofrontal cortex may be specifically associated with the benefits of brief relaxation on the brain.
Popularization of Carbon Capture and Storage Technology in Society: Principles and Methods
Authors: Cherepovitsyn Alexey , Chvileva Tatiana , Fedoseev Sergey
Published: November 2020

The problem of global warming is a key challenge. One means to prevent climate change is to reduce the concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. This can be achieved using CO2 capture and storage (CCS) technology. Due to the relative novelty of the technology, low level of experience, and high risk of implementation, in practice society often displays a negative attitude towards CCS projects. Thus, it is necessary to develop a targeted strategy to popularize CO2 capture and storage technology. Based on an extensive literature review and the experience of implementation of CCS projects in different countries, this study demonstrates the necessity of applying the deficit, contextual, lay expertise, and public participation models to promote CCS technology. As a result, the factors influencing the choice of promotion tools are identified, and the measures to popularize CCS technology, depending on the stage of its implementation, are determined. Recommendations for the improvement of CCS public databases are developed. The methodologies used this study include case studies, system-oriented analysis, and stakeholder management tools.
Lithium in Portuguese Bottled Natural Mineral Waters—Potential for Health Benefits?
Authors: Neves Maria Orquídia , Marques José , Eggenkamp Hans G.M.
Published: November 2020

There is increasing epidemiologic and experimental evidence that lithium (Li) exhibits significant health benefits, even at concentrations lower than the therapeutic oral doses prescribed as treatment for mental disorders. The aim of this study is to determine the content of Li in 18 brands of bottled natural mineral waters that are available on the Portuguese market and from which the sources are found within the Portuguese territory, to provide data for Li intake from drinking water. Analyses of Li were performed by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. The results indicate highly different Li concentrations in natural mineral waters: one group with low Li concentrations (up to 11 µg Li/L) and a second group with Li concentrations higher than 100 µg/L. The highest Li concentrations (>1500 µg Li/L) were observed in the highly mineralized Na-HCO3 type waters that are naturally carbonated (>250 mg/L free CO2). As a highly bioavailable source for Li dietary intake these natural mineral waters have potential for Li health benefits but should be consumed in a controlled manner due to its Na and F− contents. The consumption of as little as 0.25 L/day of Vidago natural mineral water (2220 µg Li/L), can contribute up to 50% of the proposed daily requirement of 1 mg Li/day for an adult (70 kg body weight). In future, Li epidemiological studies that concern the potential Li effect or health benefits from Li in drinking water should consider not only the Li intake from tap water but also intake from natural mineral water that is consumed in order to adjust the Li intake of the subjects.
Evaluating Research Centers in Minority Institutions: Framework, Metrics, Best Practices, and Challenges
Authors: Sy Angela , Hayes Traci , Laurila Kelly , Noboa Carlamarie , Langwerden Robbert J. , Hospital Michelle M. , Andújar-Pérez Doris A. , Stevenson Lakesha , Cunningham Suzanne M. Randolph , Rollins Latrice , Madanat Hala , Penn Tanya , Mehravaran Shiva
Published: November 2020

The NIH-funded Research Centers in Minority Institutions (RCMI) program is currently funding 18 academic institutions to strengthen the research environment and contribution to health disparities research. The purpose of this multiphase mixed-methods study was to establish a uniform evaluation framework for demonstrating the collective success of this research consortium. Methods included discussions of aims and logic models at the RCMI Evaluators’ Workshop, a literature review to inform an evaluation conceptual framework, and a case study survey to obtain evaluation-related information and metrics. Ten RCMIs participated in the workshop and 14 submitted responses to the survey. The resultant RCMI Evaluation Conceptual Model presents a practical ongoing approach to document RCMIs’ impacts on health disparities. Survey results identified 37 common metrics under four primary categories. Evaluation challenges were issues related to limited human resources, data collection, decision-making, defining metrics, cost-sharing, and revenue-generation. There is a need for further collaborative efforts across RCMI sites to engage program leadership and community stakeholders in addressing the identified evaluation challenges and measurement. Program leadership should be engaged to apply the Evaluation Conceptual Framework and common metrics to allow for valid inter-institutional comparisons and consortium-wide evaluations. Stakeholders could ensure evaluation metrics are used to facilitate community impacts.