bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Particle Size and PdO–Support Interactions in PdO/CeO2-γ Al2O3 Catalysts and Effect on Methane Combustion
Authors: Fertal Domenica R. , Bukhovko Maxim P. , Ding Yong , Billor Mehmet Z. , Banerjee Anil C.
Published: August 2020

In this study, we investigated the effects of sequential impregnation in two PdO/CeO2/Al2O3 nanocatalysts (4Pd-20CeO2/Al2O3 and 20CeO2-4Pd/Al2O₃) on catalytic properties, particle sizes, and metal oxide–support interactions. Pulse chemisorption indicated significantly higher dispersion and smaller particle size in the 20CeO2-4Pd/Al2O₃ catalyst. STEM images of the 4Pd-20CeO2/Al2O₃ catalyst showed PdO nanoparticles on the surface of crystalline Al2O₃. In the 20CeO2-4Pd/Al2O3 catalyst, PdO nanoparticles were strongly embedded on ceria indicating PdO-ceria interactions. Both supports were on separate sites in the two catalysts suggesting weak interactions. PdO particle sizes were 6–12 nm in the 4Pd-20CeO2/Al2O₃ catalyst and 4–8 nm in the 20CeO2-4Pd/Al2O₃ catalyst. Methane conversion was 100% at 275 °C after a 20-min run with the 4Pd-20CeO2/Al2O3 catalyst compared to 25% conversion by the 20CeO2-4Pd/Al2O₃ catalyst under same conditions. The support alumina could stabilize the PdO species and facilitated oxygen migration on the surface and from the bulk in the 4Pd-20CeO2/Al2O3 catalyst. The lower activities in the 20CeO2-4Pd/Al2O₃ catalyst could be due to inaccessibility of PdO active sites at low temperature due to embedment of PdO nanoparticles on ceria. We could infer from our data that sequence of impregnation in catalyst synthesis could significantly influence catalytic properties and methane combustion due to PdO–support interactions.
PIM1 Promotes Survival of Cardiomyocytes by Upregulating c-Kit Protein Expression
Authors: Ebeid David E. , Firouzi Fareheh , Esquer Carolina Y. , Navarrete Julian M. , Wang Bingyan J. , Gude Natalie A. , Sussman Mark A.
Published: August 2020

Enhancing cardiomyocyte survival is crucial to blunt deterioration of myocardial structure and function following pathological damage. PIM1 (Proviral Insertion site in Murine leukemia virus (PIM) kinase 1) is a cardioprotective serine threonine kinase that promotes cardiomyocyte survival and antagonizes senescence through multiple concurrent molecular signaling cascades. In hematopoietic stem cells, PIM1 interacts with the receptor tyrosine kinase c-Kit upstream of the ERK (Extracellular signal-Regulated Kinase) and Akt signaling pathways involved in cell proliferation and survival. The relationship between PIM1 and c-Kit activity has not been explored in the myocardial context. This study delineates the interaction between PIM1 and c-Kit leading to enhanced protection of cardiomyocytes from stress. Elevated c-Kit expression is induced in isolated cardiomyocytes from mice with cardiac-specific overexpression of PIM1. Co-immunoprecipitation and proximity ligation assay reveal protein–protein interaction between PIM1 and c-Kit. Following treatment with Stem Cell Factor, PIM1-overexpressing cardiomyocytes display elevated ERK activity consistent with c-Kit receptor activation. Functionally, elevated c-Kit expression confers enhanced protection against oxidative stress in vitro. This study identifies the mechanistic relationship between PIM1 and c-Kit in cardiomyocytes, demonstrating another facet of cardioprotection regulated by PIM1 kinase.
Circulating miRNAs Associated with Dysregulated Vascular and Trophoblast Function as Target-Based Diagnostic Biomarkers for Preeclampsia
Authors: Kim Suji , Park Minsik , Kim Ji-Yoon , Kim Taesam , Hwang Jong , Ha Kwon-Soo , Won Moo-Ho , Ryoo Sungwoo , Kwon Young-Guen , Kim Young-Myeong
Published: August 2020

Preeclampsia (PE) is a pregnancy-specific disorder associated with hypertension and proteinuria. Since there is no proven method to treat PE, early prediction and accurate diagnosis are essential for appropriate management of the disease. Thus, reliable biomarkers for diagnosing PE need to be identified and evaluated. We analyzed serum-soluble factors and miRNAs in 92 patients with PE and an equal number of healthy controls to identify new useful biomarkers for PE. Serum miR-31-5p, miR-155-5p, and miR-214-3p levels were significantly elevated in these patients and highly correlated with clinical symptoms of hypertension and proteinuria, whereas the miR-1290-3p level was decreased. The increased miRNAs were upregulated in an NF-κB-dependent manner and suppressed endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and placental growth factor (PlGF) expression. The level of each miRNA had greater than 90% diagnostic accuracy, which was further increased by analyzing its ratio relative to that of miR-1290-3p. Taken together, the ratios of miR-31-5p, miR-155-5p, or miR-214-3p to miR-1290-3p may serve as reliable diagnostic or prognostic tools for PE, thereby providing evidence that these miRNAs are promising mechanism-based targets for designing therapeutic and preventive strategies for the clinical management of PE.
Microstructure and Wear Resistance of WC and High Chromium Cast Iron Hardfacing Layers
Authors: Jia Runnan , Liu Shenglin , Luo Zhichao , Ning Jiapei , Wang Haiyan , Luo Tiegang , Zhu Yongsheng , Yuan Xiangsheng , Wang Zhe
Published: August 2020

The WC and high chromium cast iron (HCCI) welded layers were prepared on Q235 low carbon steel by hardfacing technique in order to improve high-temperature performance. The microstructure and mechanical properties of the welded layer were investigated. It was found that Fe3W3C is the major strengthening phase of the WC welded layer. Furthermore, a high-temperature three-body abrasive wear experiment was designed and conducted on the welded layers. The results show that the wear resistance of the WC welded layer was much better than that of the HCCI welded layer at both room and high temperatures. During the high-temperature abrasive wear process, the Fe3W3C phase can effectively strengthen the matrix and hence, contribute to improved wear resistance.
Molecular Changes in Tissue Proteome during Prostate Cancer Development: Proof-of-Principle Investigation
Authors: Latosinska Agnieszka , Davalieva Katarina , Makridakis Manousos , Mullen William , Schanstra Joost P. , Vlahou Antonia , Mischak Harald , Frantzi Maria
Published: August 2020

(1) Background: Prostate cancer (PCa) is characterized by high heterogeneity. The aim of this study was to investigate molecular alterations underlying PCa development based on proteomics data. (2) Methods: Liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry was conducted for 22 fresh-frozen tissue specimens from patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH, n = 5) and PCa (n = 17). Mann Whitney test was used to define significant differences between the two groups. Association of protein abundance with PCa progression was evaluated using Spearman correlation, followed by verification through investigating the Prostate Cancer Transcriptome Atlas. Functional enrichment and interactome analysis were carried out using Metascape and String. (3) Results: Proteomics analysis identified 1433 proteins, including 145 proteins as differentially abundant between patients with PCa and BPH. In silico analysis revealed alterations in several pathways and hallmarks implicated in metabolism and signalling, represented by 67 proteins. Among the latter, 21 proteins were correlated with PCa progression at both the protein and mRNA levels. Interactome analysis of these 21 proteins predicted interactions between Myc proto-oncogene (MYC) targets, protein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum, and oxidative phosphorylation, with MYC targets having a central role. (4) Conclusions: Tissue proteomics allowed for characterization of proteins and pathways consistently affected during PCa development. Further validation of these findings is required.
A Novel BIPV Reconfiguration Algorithm for Maximum Power Generation under Partial Shading
Authors: Al-Janahi Saoud A. , Ellabban Omar , Al-Ghamdi Sami G.
Published: August 2020

The feasibility of electricity production via solar energy in the Middle East is high due to the enormous value of solar radiation. Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) are systems used to utilise the unused spaces that can be installed on the façade or roof by replacing the building’s main element. However, the main problem associated with electricity production by BIPV is partial shading on the roof, which can produce multiple hot spots and disturbances to the system if the insolation values within the whole BIPV array vary. Partial shading, in this case, is observed due to the complexly shaped roof. This paper studies the partial shading effect on one of Qatar’s most recent projects (metro stations), and models the Education City station, which is a major station. The rooftop is complex, and it has many wavy shapes that can affect the BIPV system’s performance. The station is modelled using building-information modelling (BIM) software, wherein all of the station’s models are gathered and linked using BIM software to illustrate the BIPV and indicate the solar insolation distribution on the rooftop by simulating the station’s rooftop. The system is optimised for maximum yield to determine the optimal configuration and number of modules for each string using a genetic algorithm. The outcomes from the algorithm are based on clustering the solar insolation values and then applying a genetic algorithm optimisation to indicate the optimum BIPV array layout for maximum yield.
Method for Clustering Daily Load Curve Based on SVD-KICIC
Authors: Zhang Yikun , Zhang Jing , Yao Gang , Xu Xiao , Wei Kewen
Published: August 2020

Clustering electric load curves is an important part of the load data mining process. In this paper, we propose a clustering algorithm by combining singular value decomposition and KICIC clustering algorithm (SVD-KICIC) for analyzing the characteristics of daily load curves to mitigate some of the traditional clustering algorithm problems, such as only considering intra-class distance and low computational efficiency when dealing with massive load data. Our method identifies effective daily load curve characteristics using the singular value decomposition technique to improve dimensionality reduction, which improves low computational efficiency by reducing the number of dimensions inherent in big data. Additionally, the method performs SVD on the load data to obtain singular values for determination of weight of the KICIC algorithm, which leverages intra-class and inter-class distances of the load data and further improves the computational efficiency of the algorithm. Finally, we perform a series of simulations of actual load curves from a certain city to validate that the algorithm proposed in this paper has a short operation time, high clustering quality, and solid robustness that improves the clustering performance of the load curves.
Frequency Support from a Variable-Speed Wind Turbine Generator Using Different Variable Droop Characteristics
Authors: Yang Dejian , Li Jingjiao , Zhang Xinsong , Hua Liang
Published: August 2020

Doubly-fed induction generators (DFIGs) are capable of boosting frequency response capability while preventing the rotor speed from stalling during under-frequency disturbances, by employing variable droop characteristics. However, the frequency response capability during over-frequency disturbances is shortened because the potential for storing the kinetic energy is inversely proportional to the variable droop characteristics used for under-frequency disturbances. This paper designs a frequency control method of a DFIG to boost the frequency response capability during over-frequency disturbances while preserving the frequency response capability during under-frequency disturbances, by employing different variable droop characteristics. The effectiveness of the proposed frequency control method is investigated in a test system. The investigation results under five scenarios with different load variations, wind power penetrations and wind conditions clearly demonstrate that the proposed frequency control method suppresses the maximum system frequency deviations. As such, the proposed frequency control method can provide an effective solution for the frequency control ancillary service of a power system with large integrations of wind energy.
Control and Suppression of Vortex Shedding from a Slightly Rough Circular Cylinder by a Discrete Vortex Method
Authors: Oliveira Marcos André de , Moraes Paulo Guimarães de , Andrade Crystianne Lilian de , Bimbato Alex Mendonça , Alcântara Pereira Luiz Antonio
Published: August 2020

A discrete vortex method is implemented with a hybrid control technique of vortex shedding to solve the problem of the two-dimensional flow past a slightly rough circular cylinder in the vicinity of a moving wall. In the present approach, the passive control technique is inspired on the fundamental principle of surface roughness, promoting modifications on the cylinder geometry to affect the vortex shedding formation. A relative roughness size of ε*/d* = 0.001 (ε* is the average roughness and d* is the outer cylinder diameter) is chosen for the test cases. On the other hand, the active control technique uses a wall plane, which runs at the same speed as the free stream velocity to contribute with external energy affecting the fluid flow. The gap-to-diameter varies in the range from h*/d* = 0.05 to 0.80 (h* is the gap between the moving wall and the cylinder bottom). A detailed account of the time history of pressure distributions, simultaneously investigated with the time evolution of forces, Strouhal number behavior, and boundary layer separation are reported at upper-subcritical Reynolds number flows of Re = 1.0 × 105. The saturation state of the numerical simulations is demonstrated through the analysis of the Strouhal number behavior obtained from temporal history of the aerodynamic loads. The present work provides an improvement in the prediction of Strouhal number than other studies no using roughness model. The aerodynamic characteristics of the cylinder, as well as the control of intermittence and complete interruption of von Kármán-type vortex shedding have been better clarified.
Real-Time Construction Simulation Coupling a Concrete Temperature Field Interval Prediction Model with Optimized Hybrid-Kernel RVM for Arch Dams
Authors: Song Wenshuai , Guan Tao , Ren Bingyu , Yu Jia , Wang Jiajun , Wu Binping
Published: August 2020

Joint grouting simulation is an important aspect of arch dam construction simulation. However, the current construction simulation model simplifies the temperature factors in joint grouting simulation, which leads to the difference between the simulation results and the actual construction schedule. Furthermore, the majority of existing temperature prediction research is based on deterministic point predictions, which cannot quantify the uncertainties of the prediction values. Thus, this study presents a real-time construction simulation method coupling a concrete temperature field interval prediction model to address these problems. First, a real-time construction simulation model is established. Secondly, this paper proposes a concrete temperature interval prediction method based on the hybrid-kernel relevance vector machine (HK-RVM) with the improved grasshopper optimization algorithm (IGOA). The hybrid-kernel method is adopted to ensure the prediction accuracy and generalization ability of the model. Additionally, the improved grasshopper optimization algorithm (IGOA), which utilizes the tent chaotic map and cosine adaptive method to improve the algorithm performance, is developed for the parameter optimization of HK-RVM. Thirdly, concept drift detection based on variable window technology is proposed to update the prediction model. Finally, an arch dam project in China is used as a case study, by which the superiority and applicability of the proposed method are proven.
Reservoir Characteristics of the Lower Jurassic Lacustrine Shale in the Eastern Sichuan Basin and Its Effect on Gas Properties: An Integrated Approach
Authors: He Jianhua , Deng Hucheng , Ma Ruolong , Wang Ruyue , Wang Yuanyuan , Li Ang
Published: August 2020

The exploration of shale gas in Fuling area achieved great success, but the reservoir characteristics and gas content of the lower Jurassic lacustrine in the northern Fuling areas remain unknown. We conducted organic geochemical analyses, Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FE-SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, high-pressure mercury intrusion (MIP) and CH4adsorption experimental methods, as well as NMR logging, to study mineral composition, geochemical, pore structure characteristics of organic-rich shales and their effects on the methane adsorption capacity. The Da’anzhai shale member is generally a set of relatively thick (avg. 75 m) and high carbonate-content (avg. 56.89%) lacustrine sediments with moderate total organic carbon (TOC) (avg. 1.12%) and thermal maturation (Vitrinite reflectance (VR): avg. 1.19%). Five types of lithofacies can be classified: marl (ML), calcareous shale (CS), argillaceous shale (AS), muddy siltstone (MS), and silty shale (SS). CS has good reservoir quality with a high porosity (avg. 4.72%). The small pores with the transverse relaxation time of 0.6–1 ms and 1–3 ms comprised the major part of the porosity in the most lithofacies from Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) data, while the large pore (>300 ms) accounts for a small porosity proportion in the CS. The pores mainly constitute of mesopores (avg. 23.2 nm). The clay minerals with a large number of interparticle pores in the SEM contributes most to surface area in the shale lithofacies with a moderate TOC. The adsorption potential of shale samples is huge with an average adsorption capacity of 4.38 mL/g and also has high gas content (avg. 1.04 m3/t). The adsorption capacity of shale samples increases when TOC increases and temperature decreases. Considered reservoir properties and gas properties, CS with the laminated structures in the medium-upper section of the Da’anzhai member is the most advantage lithofacies for shale gas exploitation.
The Need to Improve Riparian Forests Management in Uranium Mining Areas Based on Assessment of Heavy Metal and Uranium Contamination
Authors: Pecina Václav , Juřička David , Kynický Jindřich , Baltazár Tivadar , Komendová Renata , Brtnický Martin
Published: August 2020

Environmental contamination caused by uranium mining is becoming a worldwide issue due to its negative impact on the environment. The aim of this study is to evaluate the contamination levels of riparian forest stands and their interaction with pollutants on the example of two localities with long and short-term uranium mining closure. Notably high Cu content, which exceeded the lower range of the toxicity limit in 50–75% of the cases, was detected in the leaves. Increased U content also represents a potential risk. As both of the elements have a negative effect particularly on the root system, it can be assumed that the soil-stabilizing and water erosion-reducing functions of the stands may be reduced. Extremely high U content (51.8 mg/kg DA) in the leaves of Aesculus hippocastanum L. indicates its potential for phytoremediation. Significantly higher U content determined at the locality with the long-term closure of mining was probably caused by the instauration of the shallow hydrogeological circulation after mine inundation. Strong correlation between U and Pb suggests identical trend of their uptake and accumulation by plants. A significant dependence of the level of contamination on the distance from its source was not demonstrated. Therefore, the management of mining areas should focus on the protection of riparian forest, which can through its stabilizing and erosion-reducing functions and through suitable species composition effectively prevent spreading of contamination.
Preparation and Characterization of Soy Isoflavones Nanoparticles Using Polymerized Goat Milk Whey Protein as Wall Material
Authors: Tian Mu , Wang Cuina , Cheng Jianjun , Wang Hao , Jiang Shilong , Guo Mingruo
Published: August 2020

Soy isoflavones (SIF) are a group of polyphenolic compounds with health benefits. However, application of SIF in functional foods is limited due to its poor aqueous solubility. SIF nanoparticles with different concentrations were prepared using polymerized goat milk whey protein (PGWP) as wall material. The goat milk whey protein was prepared from raw milk by membrane processing technology. The encapsulation efficiencies of all the nanoparticles were found to be greater than 70%. The nanoparticles showed larger particle size and lower zeta potential compared with the PGWP. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy indicated that the secondary structure of goat milk whey protein was changed after interacting with SIF, with transformation of α-helix and β-sheet to disordered structures. Fluorescence data indicated that interactions between SIF and PGWP decreased the fluorescence intensity. All nanoparticles had spherical microstructure revealed by Transmission Electron Microscope. Data indicated that PGWP may be a good carrier material for the delivery of SIF to improve its applications in functional foods.
Fractional SIS Epidemic Models
Authors: Balzotti Caterina , D’Ovidio Mirko , Loreti Paola
Published: August 2020

In this paper, we consider the fractional SIS (susceptible-infectious-susceptible) epidemic model (α-SIS model) in the case of constant population size. We provide a representation of the explicit solution to the fractional model and we illustrate the results by numerical schemes. A comparison with the limit case when the fractional order α converges to 1 (the SIS model) is also given. We analyze the effects of the fractional derivatives by comparing the SIS and the α-SIS models.
Two Cases of Recessive Intellectual Disability Caused by NDST1 and METTL23 Variants
Authors: Khan Amjad , Miao Zhichao , Umair Muhammad , Ullah Amir , Alshabeeb Mohammad A. , Bilal Muhammad , Ahmad Farooq , Rappold Gudrun A. , Ansar Muhammad , Carapito Raphael
Published: August 2020

Intellectual disability (ID) is a highly heterogeneous genetic condition with more than a thousand genes described so far. By exome sequencing of two consanguineous families presenting hallmark features of ID, we identified two homozygous variants in two genes previously associated with autosomal recessive ID: NDST1 (c.1966G>A; p.Asp656Asn) and METTL23 (c.310T>C; p.Phe104Leu). The segregation of the variants was validated by Sanger sequencing in all family members. In silico homology modeling of wild-type and mutated proteins revealed substantial changes in the secondary structure of both proteins, indicating a possible effect on function. The identification and validation of new pathogenic NDST1 and METTL23 variants in two cases of autosomal recessive ID further highlight the importance of these genes in proper brain function and development.
Accurately Predicting Glutarylation Sites Using Sequential Bi-Peptide-Based Evolutionary Features
Authors: Arafat Md. Easin , Ahmad Md. Wakil , Shovan S.M. , Dehzangi Abdollah , Dipta Shubhashis Roy , Hasan Md. Al Mehedi , Taherzadeh Ghazaleh , Shatabda Swakkhar , Sharma Alok
Published: August 2020

Post Translational Modification (PTM) is defined as the alteration of protein sequence upon interaction with different macromolecules after the translation process. Glutarylation is considered one of the most important PTMs, which is associated with a wide range of cellular functioning, including metabolism, translation, and specified separate subcellular localizations. During the past few years, a wide range of computational approaches has been proposed to predict Glutarylation sites. However, despite all the efforts that have been made so far, the prediction performance of the Glutarylation sites has remained limited. One of the main challenges to tackle this problem is to extract features with significant discriminatory information. To address this issue, we propose a new machine learning method called BiPepGlut using the concept of a bi-peptide-based evolutionary method for feature extraction. To build this model, we also use the Extra-Trees (ET) classifier for the classification purpose, which, to the best of our knowledge, has never been used for this task. Our results demonstrate BiPepGlut is able to significantly outperform previously proposed models to tackle this problem. BiPepGlut achieves 92.0%, 84.8%, 95.6%, 0.82, and 0.88 in accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, Matthew’s Correlation Coefficient, and F1-score, respectively. BiPepGlut is implemented as a publicly available online predictor.
Rousseau and the Qualified Support of Matriarchal Rule
Authors: Kabala Boleslaw Z.
Published: August 2020

The article investigates the relations between men and women in Rousseau’s major works to uncover the possibility of a long-term rule of women over men. Rousseau does provide examples of alternating rule between the sexes. However, given that the rule of prominent women like Sophie and Julie is indirect and more Machiavellian than that of men, I make the case that Rousseau sees straightforward control by women as more consistent with modern conditions (specifically in an indirect-rule as opposed to an instrumental-rationality sense). First, I provide examples of Sophie’s rule in Emile. Sophie rules Emile especially through acts of charity that incline Emile to participate in the project that Sophie has undertaken, making him more capable of willing generally. Second, I show that Julie at Clarens rules a number of the men there and particularly in the administration of the estate. Interestingly, like Sophie’s, her power is communicated through concrete examples of charitable action. Rousseau writes that, as a result, those around her are imbued with the spirit to contribute to the projects of importance to her, which also renders them more apt to will generally. Interestingly, two women as different as Sophie and Julie rule men in the same way: through charity. They do so as the result of a religious education. And, whereas religious education in Rousseau is in general anti-metaphysical, this is especially true for women compared to men. The examples of Sophie and Julie do, therefore, take us into territory of the sexes alternating in rule. But the difference in education suggests that for Rousseau their rule goes deeper and represents a relation more fundamental than the rule of men over women. The possibility is further confirmed through an analysis of Rousseau’s states of nature. At the end of the day, the reevaluation of relations between the sexes in Rousseau’s work is long overdue. I engage a rich scholarly literature and embark on a rereading of several of Rousseau’s works to offer a fresh interpretation that suggests the citizen of Geneva was not only open to a significant increase in the power of women over time, but that he actually favored matriarchy. The argument hopefully underscores the way in which great works are both timely and timeless.
Implementing a Diabetes Education Program to Reduce Health Disparities in South Texas: Application of the RE-AIM Framework for Planning and Evaluation
Authors: Ory Marcia G. , Lee Shinduk , Towne Samuel D. , Flores Starr , Gabriel Olga , Smith Matthew Lee
Published: August 2020

Health disparities in diabetes management and control are well-documented. The objective of this study is to describe one diabetes education program delivered in the United States in terms of the RE-AIM (Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance) Planning and Evaluation Framework. Questionnaires, clinical data, and administrative records were analyzed from 8664 adults with diabetes living in South Texas, an area characterized by high health disparities. The Diabetes Education Program delivered was a professionally led 12-month program involving 8 h of in-person workshop education followed by quarterly follow-up sessions. Changes in average blood glucose levels over the past 3 months (e.g., A1c levels) were the primary clinical outcome. Descriptive and multiple generalized linear mixed models were performed. This community-based initiative reached a large and diverse population, and statistically significant reductions in A1c levels (p < 0.01) were observed among participants with Type 2 diabetes at 3 months. These reductions in A1c levels were sustained at 6-, 9-, and 12-month follow-up assessments (p < 0.01). However, considerable attrition over time at follow-up sessions indicate the need for more robust strategies to keep participants engaged. For this diabetes education program, the RE-AIM model was a useful framework to present study processes and outcomes.
Mental Health and Its Predictors during the Early Months of the COVID-19 Pandemic Experience in the United States
Authors: Zhou Yanmengqian , MacGeorge Erina L. , Myrick Jessica Gall
Published: August 2020

To date, there has been relatively little published research on the mental health impacts of COVID-19 for the general public at the beginning of the U.S.’ experience of the pandemic, or the factors associated with stress, anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic growth during this time. The current study provides a longitudinal examination of the predictors of self-reported stress, anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic growth for U.S. residents between April and May, 2020, including the influence of demographic, psychosocial, and behavioral factors on these outcomes. The findings indicate that, generally, the early months of the U.S. COVID-19 experience were characterized by a modest negative impact on mental health. Younger adults, people with pre-existing health conditions, and those experiencing greater perceived risk, higher levels of rumination, higher levels of co-rumination, greater social strain, or less social support reported worse mental health. Positive mental health was associated with the adoption of coping strategies, especially those that were forward-looking, and with greater adherence to national health-protection guidelines. The findings are discussed with regard to the current status of health-protective measures and mental health in the U.S., especially as these impact future management of the on-going pandemic.
Schrödinger’s Worker: Are They Positive or Negative for SARS-CoV-2?
Authors: Meloni Federico , Campagna Marcello , Restivo Angelo , Cocco Pierluigi
Published: August 2020

In these days of 2020, tests for the diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2, and their use in the context of health surveillance of workers, are becoming popular. Nevertheless, their sensitivity and specificity could vary on the basis of the type of test used and on the moment of infection of the subject tested. The aim of this viewpoint paper is to make employers, workers, occupational physicians, and public health specialists think about the limits of diagnostic tests currently available, and the possible implication related to the erroneous and incautious assignment of “immunity passports” or “risk-free certificates” to workers during screening campaigns in workplaces.
Distribution of the Soil PAHs and Health Risk Influenced by Coal Usage Processes in Taiyuan City, Northern China
Authors: Li Rongjie , Cheng Mingchao , Cui Yang , He Qiusheng , Guo Xiaofang , Chen Laiguo , Wang Xinming
Published: August 2020

The quality of urban soil is closely related to the safety of public places and the guarantee of food quality. This study investigated the level, distribution, source, and carcinogenic risk of 16 U.S. EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) priority polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in urban, agricultural, and montane soil in Taiyuan. The ∑16PAHs level varied from 104.78 to 6594.63 ng g−1 with a mean of 922.93 ng g−1, and 47.73% of the soil samples were severely contaminated, with a concentration higher than 600 ng g−1. PAHs with higher molecular weight (≥4 rings) were dominant in PAHs profiles accounting for 80.92%. In the spatial distribution of PAHs, hotspots of ∑16 PAHs were observed near the industries, indicating pollutants emitted by the industries directly affect the surrounding soil quality. The sources identified by positive matrix factorization (PMF) indicated: coal combustion (40.77%), vehicle exhausts (32.94%), biomass combustion (14.89%), and coking source (11.40%). Coal-related sources (coal and coking sources) were the major contributors (52.17%) to PAHs and carcinogenic risk (46.48%) assessed by BaP toxic equivalent concentration in total soils. Therefore, the extensive usage of coal was the leading factor for PAH pollution and health risk in Taiyuan soil.
Ability to Predict Side-Out Performance by the Setter’s Action Range with First Tempo Availability in Top European Male and Female Teams
Authors: Millán-Sánchez Antonio , Parra-Royón Manuel J. , Benítez José M. , Ureña Espa Aurelio
Published: August 2020

The aims of this study were to compare the Setter’s action range with availability of first tempo (SARA) between male and female volleyball; and to determine the relationship between several spatial and offensive variables and their influence in the success of the side-out in male and female volleyball. A total of 1302 side-outs (639 male, 663 female) were registered (2019 European Championship). The ranking, reception efficacy, position and trajectory of the setter between reception and set, first tempo availability, side-out result, rotation, and attack lane were analyzed through Recursive Partitioning for classification, regression and survival tree models and classification and regression trees algorithms. Our results present female teams with more reduced SARAs than male teams, meaning female setters tend to play closer to the net. The correlation between the ranking and the distance from the average position of the setter to the ideal setting zone was not significant. A movement of the setter of 30° or less and more than 1 m in distance might improve the performance of the side-out. Depending on the spatial usage of the setter, some rotations might be more successful than others. When assessing performance, the teams should consider the ability to play quick attacks when their reception is not as precise as they would expect.
Food Safety Gaps between Consumers’ Expectations and Perceptions: Development and Verification of a Gap-Assessment Tool
Authors: Lin Paohui , Tsai Hsientang , Ho Tzuya
Published: August 2020

In recent decades, food safety has become a major concern due to frequent food safety incidents in many countries. This may lead to increased health risks associated with low quality food consumption, thereby reducing consumer trust in food safety. A better understanding of consumer perceptions of food safety can improve indicators that do not meet consumer expectations. We propose a food safety gap model with four gap-construct based on consumer expectations and perceptions. The model was empirically tested through a survey of 25 items, and then assessed for gaps through the importance–performance analysis (IPA). From a sample of 697 Taiwanese consumers, we found a huge gap between consumer expectations and perceptions related to food safety. More importantly, the results of the IPA indicate that most items must be immediately improved, which is vital in order to mitigate the risk of food safety.
Parents’ Reported Experiences When Having a Child with Cataract—Important Aspects of Self-Management Obtained from the Pediatric Cataract Register (PECARE)
Authors: Gyllén Jenny , Magnusson Gunilla , Forsberg Anna
Published: August 2020

Parents are a crucial part in the care of children with pediatric cataract. The aim of this study was to explore and explain sense of coherence, family self-efficacy, perceived social support, fatigue and parent reported experiences (PREM), in order to improve clinical care. Questionnaires were sent to the parents of children registered in the Swedish national Pediatric Cataract Register, PECARE, from 2006–2019 (n = 506). The response rate was 46% (n = 231), 185 mothers and 44 fathers with a mean age of 40.39 years (SD ± 6.41 years). In total, 38% of the parents reported severe fatigue, and mothers were more burdened than fathers. Sense of coherence was strongly related to fatigue, especially among parents of children with bilateral cataract. Mental fatigue and reduced motivation explained 45% of the variation in sense of coherence. Being taken seriously by the ophthalmological clinic explained over 60% of the variation in satisfaction with care when controlled for parents’ age and gender. In conclusion, fatigue is important to take in consideration when interacting with parents of children with cataract, especially those with bilateral cataract. Being taken seriously is the key marker of satisfaction with care and support from professionals. In addition to fatigue, the parents’ age and life situation affect how they perceive their own, as well as the professionals’ effort, and should be considered when tailoring family-centered care.
The Perspectives of Professional Caregivers on Implementing Audio-Based Technology in Residential Dementia Care
Authors: Houben Maarten , Brankaert Rens , Kenning Gail , Eggen Berry , Bongers Inge
Published: August 2020

Music and familiar everyday sounds can be meaningful for people with dementia by providing benefits such as evoking memories and emotions or prompting social interactions with caregivers or relatives. Motivated by this potential, researchers and designers are investigating how to leverage these beneficial effects of sound in care environments through audio-based technology. However, there is a gap in the knowledge of how audio-based technology can be successfully implemented within everyday care practice. In this paper, we present the outcome of three participatory workshops with 18 professional caregivers to explore how audio-based technology can add value to existing care processes and activities in residential dementia care. During the participatory workshops, professional caregivers (1) mapped existing care activities; (2) linked findings in research with practice, and (3) designed scenarios for the Vita sound cushion. Care professionals indicate how audio-based technology can support existing care practice by influencing the mood of residents and by supporting social interaction during moments of care, daytime activities, or situational sessions. This study bridges research findings with insights from practice, contributing to a shared understanding of opportunities for embedding audio-based technology in dementia care. These opportunities motivate future research to implement and evaluate audio-based technology in residential dementia care.
A Combination of Full Pulpotomy and Chairside CAD/CAM Endocrown to Treat Teeth with Deep Carious Lesions and Pulpitis in a Single Session: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Munoz-Sanchez Marie-Laure , Linas Natacha , Decerle Nicolas , Nicolas Emmanuel , Hennequin Martine , Cousson Pierre-Yves
Published: August 2020

A higher chance of carrying out a successful full pulpotomy may depend on whether the coronal restoration can be completed within a single appointment. The development of chairside CAD/CAM (Computer Aided Design and Manufacturing) technology has made it possible to carry out indirect restoration of endodontically treated teeth in a single session. This study aimed to evaluate the long-term outcome of a full pulpotomy with Biodentine™ immediately covered with a chairside CAD/CAM endocrown on teeth affected by pulpitis and deep carious lesions. The investigation involved a cohort of 30 molars that were treated by pulpotomy and CAD/CAM endocrown. Clinical and radiological examinations were scheduled at 1, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. Overall, all treatments were effective at any time during the follow-up. The results of this study need to be confirmed with a longer-term follow-up to allow for comparison with the literature. This original combination of endodontic and restorative treatments provides an Endo-prosthetic continuum in a single session, with the objective of long-term success in terms of tooth health.
Evaluation of Emotional Intelligence among Master’s Degree Students in Nursing and Midwifery: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Cassano Fabiana , Tamburrano Andrea , Mellucci Claudia , Galletti Caterina , Damiani Gianfranco , Laurenti Patrizia
Published: August 2020

Emotional intelligence is an important skill for nurses and midwives and leads them to cleverly work in various fields and contexts, successfully handling colleagues, patients and their families. The aim of this cross-sectional study is to evaluate the relationship between emotional intelligence, sociodemographic and academic variables in current and former master’s degree students in nursing and midwifery, through the administration of a questionnaire to 71 subjects. Emotional intelligence is significantly related to gender. Females showed higher scores (0.2 points higher than men) for emotional intelligence factors, highlighting an excellent ability to “evaluate and express emotions in relation to others”. Moreover, significant differences in academic performances are shown: both females and midwives demonstrated higher academic performance (a mean degree mark 3.8 points higher than men and a mean degree mark 2.6 point than nurses, respectively). High levels of emotional intelligence in individuals who carried out training activities in the organization area are also evident: These subjects have an ability regarding the “regulation of emotion in the others”, which is significantly higher (p = 0.01) than those interested in other master’s degree areas. Emotional intelligence (EI) is strongly linked to the individual’s characteristics and their personalities and differs from technical and professional skills. EI is also an excellent predictor of professional success.
Educational Interventions for Teaching Evidence-Based Practice to Undergraduate Nursing Students: A Scoping Review
Authors: Patelarou Athina E. , Mechili Enkeleint A. , Ruzafa-Martinez María , Dolezel Jakub , Gotlib Joanna , Skela-Savič Brigita , Ramos-Morcillo Antonio Jesús , Finotto Stefano , Jarosova Darja , Smodiš Marta , Mecugni Daniela , Panczyk Mariusz , Patelarou Evridiki
Published: August 2020

Background: Evidence-based practice (EBP) is the appropriate approach to guide healthcare personnel in their clinical practice. Despite the importance of EBP, undergraduate nursing students are not very much engaged and have a lack of knowledge and skills. Aim: The aim of this study was to gather, assess and synthesize evidence on educational interventions promoting evidence-based practice competencies in traditional undergraduate nursing students. Methods: This is a scoping review on sixteen English and non-English databases. A data extraction form was established including authors, year of publication, country, types of participant, specific objectives, study design, educational intervention, comparison if existed, and outcomes of significance. Results: The search strategy retrieved 8901 records in total. After screening for duplicates and eligibility, 20 articles were included in the qualitative synthesis. Improvement in EBP domains such as knowledge, skills, attitudes/behaviours, EBP beliefs, use, practice, level of evidence, critical thinking and future use of EBP were mentioned and assessed in different studies. Conclusions: EBP training can improve nursing students’ capacity in healthcare provision. Teaching EBP competencies along undergraduate nursing curricula should be a high priority at nursing programmes. The use of innovative approaches seems to be more effective than traditional ways. Education of EBP increases its future use and critical thinking and EBP programs improve self-efficacy and the level of evidence utilization.
Determinants of Refugee and Migrant Health Status in 10 European Countries: The Mig-HealthCare Project
Authors: Riza Elena , Karnaki Pania , Gil-Salmerón Alejandro , Zota Konstantina , Ho Maxwell , Petropoulou Maria , Katsas Konstantinos , Garcés-Ferrer Jorge , Linos Athena
Published: August 2020

In this study, we collect and synthesize information on the health status of the refugee/migrant population in ten European countries in order to map refugee/migrant health needs. With this information, we identify areas of intervention and healthcare system strengthening to provide the basis for future health planning and effective healthcare provision to migrants, asylum-seekers and refugees in the European Union (EU). Methods: 1407 migrants in ten European Union countries (consortium members of the Mig-HealthCare project) were surveyed on general health, mental health, and specific diseases using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and multivariable linear regression analyses were conducted to investigate the risk factors on general quality of life for migrants and refugees in the EU. Results: Mean age was 31.9 (±11.05) years and 889 (63.1%) participants were males. The majority came from Syria, Afghanistan, Iraq, Nigeria, and Iran. Having a mental health disorder or a chronic disease such as a heart or respiratory disease was associated with worse general health. On the other hand, having permission to stay in the country of interview and being interviewed in the country of final destination was associated with better general health. Access to health care services was fragmented or unavailable for some interviewees because of linguistic, cultural, or administrative barriers. Conclusions: The management of chronic diseases and mental health conditions in European migrants and refugees is a key priority for health service provision. Further efforts should be made to guarantee healthcare access for migrant and refugee populations.
Human Platelet Lysate Supports Efficient Expansion and Stability of Wharton’s Jelly Mesenchymal Stromal Cells via Active Uptake and Release of Soluble Regenerative Factors
Authors: Cañas-Arboleda Mariana , Beltrán Karl , Medina Carlos , Camacho Bernardo , Salguero Gustavo
Published: August 2020

Manufacturing of mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC)-based therapies for regenerative medicine requires the use of suitable supply of growth factors that enhance proliferation, cell stability and potency during cell expansion. Human blood derivatives such as human platelet lysate (hPL) have emerged as a feasible alternative for cell growth supplement. Nevertheless, composition and functional characterization of hPL in the context of cell manufacturing is still under investigation, particularly regarding the content and function of pro-survival and pro-regenerative factors. We performed comparative analyses of hPL, human serum (hS) and fetal bovine serum (FBS) stability and potency to support Wharton’s jelly (WJ) MSC production. We demonstrated that hPL displayed low inter-batch variation and unique secretome profile that was not present in hS and FBS. Importantly, hPL-derived factors including PDGF family, EGF, TGF-alpha, angiogenin and RANTES were actively taken up by WJ-MSC to support efficient expansion. Moreover, hPL but not hS or FBS induced secretion of osteoprotegerin, HGF, IL-6 and GRO-alpha by WJ-MSC during the expansion phase. Thus, hPL is a suitable source of factors supporting viability, stability and potency of WJ-MSC and therefore constitutes an essential raw material that in combination with WJ-MSC introduces a great opportunity for the generation of potent regenerative medicine products.