bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isolation and Culture of Human Stem Cells from Apical Papilla under Low Oxygen Concentration Highlight Original Properties
Authors: Rémy Murielle , Ferraro Francesca , Le Salver Pierre , Rey Sylvie , Genot Elisabeth , Djavaheri-Mergny Mojgan , Thébaud Noélie , Boiziau Claudine , Boeuf Hélène
Published: November 2019

Stem cells isolated from the apical papilla of wisdom teeth (SCAPs) are an attractive model for tissue repair due to their availability, high proliferation rate and potential to differentiate in vitro towards mesodermal and neurogenic lineages. Adult stem cells, such as SCAPs, develop in stem cell niches in which the oxygen concentration [O2] is low (3–8% compared with 21% of ambient air). In this work, we evaluate the impact of low [O2] on the physiology of SCAPs isolated and processed in parallel at 21% or 3% O2 without any hyperoxic shock in ambient air during the experiment performed at 3% O2. We demonstrate that SCAPs display a higher proliferation capacity at 3% O2 than in ambient air with elevated expression levels of two cell surface antigens: the alpha-6 integrin subunit (CD49f) and the embryonic stem cell marker (SSEA4). We show that the mesodermal differentiation potential of SCAPs is conserved at early passage in both [O2], but is partly lost at late passage and low [O2], conditions in which SCAPs proliferate efficiently without any sign of apoptosis. Unexpectedly, we show that autophagic flux is active in SCAPs irrespective of [O2] and that this process remains high in cells even after prolonged exposure to 3% O2.
Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells Derived from Dental Tissues: A Comparative In Vitro Evaluation of Their Immunoregulatory Properties Against T cells
Authors: De la Rosa-Ruiz María del Pilar , Álvarez-Pérez Marco Antonio , Cortés-Morales Víctor Adrián , Monroy-García Alberto , Mayani Héctor , Fragoso-González Gladis , Caballero-Chacón Sara , Diaz Daniel , Candanedo-González Fernando , Montesinos Juan José
Published: November 2019

Bone marrow mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (BM-MSCs) have immunoregulatory properties and have been used as immune regulators for the treatment of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). Human dental tissue mesenchymal stem cells (DT-MSCs) constitute an attractive alternative to BM-MSCs for potential clinical applications because of their accessibility and easy preparation. The aim of this in vitro study was to compare MSCs from dental pulp (DP-MSCs), gingival tissue (G-MSCs), and periodontal ligament (PDL-MSCs) in terms of their immunosuppressive properties against lymphoid cell populations enriched for CD3+ T cells to determine which MSCs would be the most appropriate for in vivo immunoregulatory applications. BM-MSCs were included as the gold standard. Our results demonstrated, in vitro, that MSCs from DP, G, and PDL showed immunoregulatory properties similar to those from BM, in terms of the cellular proliferation inhibition of both CD4+- and CD8+-activated T-cells. This reduced proliferation in cell co-cultures correlated with the production of interferon-γ and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and the upregulation of programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) in MSCs and cytotoxic T-cell-associated Ag-4 (CTLA-4) in T-cells and increased interleukin-10 and prostaglandin E2 production. Interestingly, we observed differences in the production of cytokines and surface and secreted molecules that may participate in T-cell immunosuppression in co-cultures in the presence of DT-MSCs compared with BM-MSCs. Importantly, MSCs from four sources favored the generation of T-cell subsets displaying the regulatory phenotypes CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ and CD4+CD25+CTLA-4+. Our results in vitro indicate that, in addition to BM-MSCs, MSCs from all of the dental sources analyzed in this study might be candidates for future therapeutic applications.
Gonadotropins in Keratoconus: The Unexpected Suspects
Authors: Karamichos Dimitrios , Barrientez Brayden , Nicholas Sarah , Ma Symon , Van Lyly , Bak-Nielsen Sashia , Hjortdal Jesper
Published: November 2019

Keratoconus (KC) is the most common ectatic corneal disease with a significant visual acuity burden. The actual burden is intangible given that KC can disrupt daily activities (reading, driving, and various career paths). Despite decades of research and clinical studies, the etiology, onset, and pathobiology of KC remain a mystery. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of gonadotropins in KC. We recruited 86 KC patients (63 males, 23 female), and 45 healthy controls (22 male, 23 female). Plasma samples were collected and analyzed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Corneal stromal cells from KC and healthy controls, and human epithelial corneal cells, were also investigated for gonadotropin-related markers. Our results show significant alterations of LH/FSH in KCs, compared to healthy controls. Our data also reveals, for the first time, the existence of gonadotropins and their receptors in KC. Our study is the first to demonstrate the role of LH/FSH in KCs, and expand the list of organs known to express gonadotropins, or their receptors, to include the human cornea. Our findings suggest that the human cornea is capable of responding to gonadotropins, and propose an intriguing mechanism for the onset and/or progression of KC.
Study on Friction and Lubrication Characteristics of Surface with Unidirectional Convergence Texture
Authors: Li Chenchen , Yang Xuefeng , Wang Shouren , Wang Yanjun , Lu Chongyang , Cao Jinlong
Published: November 2019

In order to study the influence of texture on the wear and lubrication performance of the surface of the tools, three kinds of textures with unidirectional convergence morphology were processed on the surface of the samples, and each texture was designed with different area occupancy ratios. Simulation analysis shows that, owing to the reflow and convection effect of liquid in the texture, the lubricating film flowing through the textured surface has a high hydrodynamic pressure value, and the semicircular ring texture is the most prominent. By comparing the friction coefficient, when the area occupancy ratio of texture on the surface is 10%, the surface of the samples with different morphology has the lowest coefficient of friction; the friction coefficient of the semicircular ring textured surface is especially very low. Surface textures reduce the direct contact area between the friction pairs, and generate dynamic pressure lubrication and secondary lubrication, so that the surface friction coefficient of the samples is obviously reduced. The surfaces of the non-textured samples have abrasive wear and contact fatigue wear, and the surfaces of the textured samples have adhesive wear, abrasive wear, and cavitation.
Adaptive Multiscale Symbolic-Dynamics Entropy for Condition Monitoring of Rotating Machinery
Authors: Dou Chunhong , Lin Jinshan
Published: November 2019

Vibration data from rotating machinery working in different conditions display different properties in spatial and temporal scales. As a result, insights into spatial- and temporal-scale structures of vibration data of rotating machinery are fundamental for describing running conditions of rotating machinery. However, common temporal statistics and typical nonlinear measures have difficulties in describing spatial and temporal scales of data. Recently, statistical linguistic analysis (SLA) has been pioneered in analyzing complex vibration data from rotating machinery. Nonetheless, SLA can examine data in spatial scales but not in temporal scales. To improve SLA, this paper develops symbolic-dynamics entropy for quantifying word-frequency series obtained by SLA. By introducing multiscale analysis to SLA, this paper proposes adaptive multiscale symbolic-dynamics entropy (AMSDE). By AMSDE, spatial and temporal properties of data can be characterized by a set of symbolic-dynamics entropy, each of which corresponds to a specific temporal scale. Afterward, AMSDE is employed to deal with vibration data from defective gears and rolling bearings. Moreover, the performance of AMSDE is benchmarked against five common temporal statistics (mean, standard deviation, root mean square, skewness and kurtosis) and three typical nonlinear measures (approximate entropy, sample entropy and permutation entropy). The results suggest that AMSDE performs better than these benchmark methods in characterizing running conditions of rotating machinery.
Non-Volatile Memory Forensic Analysis in Windows 10 IoT Core
Authors: Castelo Gómez Juan Manuel , Roldán Gómez José , Carrillo Mondéjar Javier , Martínez Martínez José Luis
Published: November 2019

The increase in the number of cybersecurity incidents in which internet of things (IoT) devices are involved has called for an improvement in the field of computer forensics, which needs to provide techniques in order to perform complete and efficient investigations in this new environment. With the aim of doing so, new devices and systems are being studied in order to offer guidelines for investigators on how to examine them. This papers follows this approach and presents a forensic analysis of the non-volatile memory of Windows 10 IoT Core. It details how the investigation should be performed and highlights the relevant information that can be extracted from storage. In addition, a tool for the automation of the retrieval of the pieces of evidence detected is provided.
Engineering Education and Technological/Professional Learning
Authors: Viegas Clara , Marques Arcelina , Alves Gustavo R. , García-Peñalvo Francisco
Published: November 2019

The focus of this Special Issue is aimed at enhancing the discussion of Engineering Education, particularly related to technological and professional learning [...]
A Two-Dimensional Study on the Effect of Anisotropy on the Devolatilization of a Large Wood Log
Authors: Haugen Nils Erland L. , Skreiberg Øyvind
Published: November 2019

In this work, a two-dimensional (2D) model for wood particle drying, devolatilization, and char conversion is presented and validated against experimental studies of devolatilization of a large, dry, cylindrical birch wood log. The wood log’s internal distributions of temperature, solid species densities, gas density, and gas species mass fractions, together with the internal pressure and the gas flow velocities in radial and longitudinal directions, were studied. It was found that the internal pressure peak significantly depended on the permeability of char. The velocity profiles changed as the pressure wave traveled radially inward in the same manner as the devolatilization zone. The wood log internal pressure was not only dependent on wood and char permeabilities but also depended on the devolatilization rate, which itself is a heat-controlled conversion stage. In addition to the study on wood anisotropy, which can be accounted for in detail by the presented 2D model, the authors compared the 2D results to results obtained from a corresponding 1D version of the model, where only radial heat and mass transfer properties were used. It was found that even though the predictions of the 2D model were in better agreement with experimental observations than the 1D modeling results, for these parameters, 1D models can still be used without too much loss in accuracy. Finally, the paper concludes with a clear recommendation of when higher dimensional models should be used and when they should not.
A Multi-Attribute Decision Making Process with Immediate Probabilistic Interactive Averaging Aggregation Operators of T-Spherical Fuzzy Sets and Its Application in the Selection of Solar Cells
Authors: Zeng Shouzhen , Garg Harish , Munir Muhammad , Mahmood Tahir , Hussain Azmat
Published: November 2019

The objective of this paper is to present new interactive averaging aggregation operators by assigning associate probabilities for T-spherical fuzzy sets (T-SFSs). T-SFS is a generalization of several existing theories such as intuitionistic fuzzy sets and picture fuzzy sets to handle imprecise information. Under such an environment, we developed a series of averaging interactive aggregation operators under the features that each element is represented with T-spherical fuzzy numbers. Various properties of the proposed operators are also investigated. Further, to rank the different T-SFSs, we exhibit the new score functions and state their some properties. To demonstrate the presented algorithm, a decision-making process algorithm is presented with T-SFS features. To save non-renewable resources and to the protect environment, the use of renewable resources is important. Solar energy is one of the best renewable energy resources and is also environment-friendly and thus the selection of solar cells is typically a multi-attribute decision-making problem. Therefore, the applicability of the developed algorithm is demonstrated with a numerical example in the selection of the solar cells and comparison of their performance with the several existing approaches.
Experimental Investigation on the Mechanical Behavior of an Innovative Parabolic Trough Collector
Authors: Gilioli Andrea , Abbiati Luca , Fossati Massimo , Cadini Francesco , Manes Andrea , Giglio Marco , Carnelli Lino , Volpato Claudio Boris , Cardamone Stefano
Published: November 2019

In the present work an experimental program aimed at assessing the mechanical behavior of an innovative parabolic solar trough is presented. More specifically, a lightweight and low-cost collector making large use of adhesive joints, which can be easily assembled on-site, still performing at a high efficiency, was designed. Static and fatigue tests were performed on a full-scale prototype of the collector in the pre-production stage. The tests included differential torsion, concentrated and distributed bending, and distributed load (wind effect). During the tests, a network of strain gauges was placed in the most critical locations to measure the strain field, while laser sensors and cable transducers were placed in strategic positions to measure the displacements. The results demonstrate the strengths of the innovative parabolic trough collector and support the assessment of its structural integrity.
Uncertainty Analysis of Factors Influencing Stimulated Fracture Volume in Layered Formation
Authors: Zhang Jingxuan , Liu Xiangjun , Wei Xiaochen , Liang Lixi , Xiong Jian , Li Wei
Published: November 2019

Hydraulic fracture dimension is one of the key parameters affecting stimulated porous media. In actual fracturing, plentiful uncertain parameters increase the difficulty of fracture dimension prediction, resulting in the difficulty in the monitoring of reservoir productivity. In this paper, we established a three-dimensional model to analyze the key factors on the stimulated reservoir volume (SRV), with the response surface method (RSM). Considering the rock properties and fracturing parameters, we established a multivariate quadratic prediction equation. Simulation results show that the interactions of injection rate (Q), Young’s modulus (E) and permeability coefficient (K), and Poisson’s ratio (μ) play a relatively significant role on SRV. The reservoir with a high Young’s modulus typically generates high pressure, leading to longer fractures and larger SRV. SRV reaches the maximum value when E1 and E2 are high. SRV is negatively correlated with K1. Moreover, maintaining a high injection rate in this layered formation with high E1 and E2, relatively low K1, and μ1 at about 0.25 would be beneficial to form a larger SRV. These results offer new perceptions on the optimization of SRV, helping to improve the productivity in hydraulic fracturing.
A Case Study on Distributed Energy Resources and Energy-Storage Systems in a Virtual Power Plant Concept: Economic Aspects
Authors: Sikorski Tomasz , Jasiński Michał , Ropuszyńska-Surma Edyta , Węglarz Magdalena , Kaczorowska Dominika , Kostyła Paweł , Leonowicz Zbigniew , Lis Robert , Rezmer Jacek , Rojewski Wilhelm , Sobierajski Marian , Szymańda Jarosław , Bejmert Daniel , Janik Przemysław
Published: November 2019

This paper analyzes the technical and economic possibilities of integrating distributed energy resources (DERs) and energy-storage systems (ESSs) into a virtual power plant (VPP) and operating them as a single power plant. The purpose of the study is to assess the economic efficiency of the VPP model, which is influenced by several factors such as energy price and energy production. Ten scenarios for the VPP were prepared on the basis of the installed capacities of a hydropower plant (HPP), rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV), and energy-storage system (ESS), as well as weather conditions, in Poland. On the basis of technical conditions, it was assumed that the maximum power capacity of the ESS equaled 1.5 MW. The economic efficiency analysis presented in this paper demonstrated that, in seven years, the VPP will achieve a positive value of the net present value (NPV) for a scenario with 0.5 MW battery storage and rainy summers. Furthermore, sensitivity analysis was conducted on price factors and DER production volume. The price variable had a major impact on the NPV value for all scenarios. The scenario with a 0.5 MW battery and typical summers was highly sensitive to all factors, and its sensitivity decreased as the ESS capacity grew from 0.5 to 1.5 MW.
Analysis of Energy Flux Vector on Natural Convection Heat Transfer in Porous Wavy-Wall Square Cavity with Partially-Heated Surface
Authors: Lin Yan-Ting , Cho Ching-Chang
Published: November 2019

The study utilizes the energy-flux-vector method to analyze the heat transfer characteristics of natural convection in a wavy-wall porous square cavity with a partially-heated bottom surface. The effects of the modified Darcy number, modified Rayleigh number, modified Prandtl number, and length of the partially-heated bottom surface on the energy-flux-vector distribution and mean Nusselt number are examined. The results show that when a low modified Darcy number with any value of modified Rayleigh number is given, the recirculation regions are not formed in the energy-flux-vector distribution within the porous cavity. Therefore, a low mean Nusselt number is presented. The recirculation regions do still not form, and thus the mean Nusselt number has a low value when a low modified Darcy number with a high modified Rayleigh number is given. However, when the values of the modified Darcy number and modified Rayleigh number are high, the energy flux vectors generate recirculation regions, and thus a high mean Nusselt number is obtained. In addition, in a convection-dominated region, the mean Nusselt number increases with an increasing modified Prandtl number. Furthermore, as the length of the partially-heated bottom surface lengthens, a higher mean Nusselt number is presented.
Growth Responses of Eucalyptus pellita F. Muell Plantations in South Sumatra to Macronutrient Fertilisers Following Several Rotations of Acacia mangium Willd.
Authors: Inail Maydra Alen , Hardiyanto Eko B. , Mendham Daniel S.
Published: November 2019

Eucalyptus pellita has rapidly emerged as the species that has replaced Acacia mangium in broad-scale commercial plantations in Indonesia following widespread losses due to disease and in soils that have suffered a steady decline in phosphorus (P) under plantation forestry. Conversion from a nitrogen (N)-fixing to a non-N fixing species is expected to change the nutrient dynamics and the management required to maximise productivity. In this study in South Sumatra, responses of E. pellita to the application of N, P, potassium (K) and calcium (Ca) fertilisers were assessed at a number of trials on sites with varying site history; A. mangium was planted at one site to compare the species’ responses to N and P. The growth of E. pellita responded significantly (p < 0.01) to P’s application but not to N, K or Ca, with the addition of P increasing the stem volume by 32.6 m3 ha−1 at 3 years of age compared with no addition of P fertiliser; the demand for P in the first two years of growth was, respectively, 4.8 and 6.8 kg ha−1. This positive and large response appears to be because E. pellita has a lower efficiency in its use of P than A. mangium and is, therefore, more responsive than A. mangium to the addition of P. The reason for the lack of response to N remains unclear, although demand for N as well as K and Ca was high. These results suggest that sites recently converted to E. pellita from A. mangium and also new ex-native forest sites will be likely to only respond to P addition and that the response of E. pellita is likely to be greater than for A. mangium to maximise yield. At present, additional N, Ca or K fertilisers are not required, but this may change in the future.
An Economical Approach to Distinguish Genetically Needles of Limber from Whitebark Pine
Authors: Alongi Franklin , Hansen Andrew J. , Laufenberg David , Keane Robert E. , Legg Kristin , Lavin Matt
Published: November 2019

Whitebark pine is difficult to distinguish from limber pine when seed cones are not present. This is often the case because of young stand age, growth at environmental extremes, or harvesting by vertebrate species. Developing an economical genetic identification tool that distinguishes non-cone-bearing limber from whitebark pine, therefore, could aid many kinds of research on these species. Phylogenetic studies involving limber and whitebark pine suggest that chloroplast DNA sequences differ between these species. We therefore wanted to identify chloroplast loci that could differentiate limber from whitebark pine trees by taking an economical approach involving restriction-site analysis. We generated chloroplast DNA barcode sequences sampled from limber and whitebark pine trees that we identified using attached seed cones. We searched for nucleotide differences associated with restriction endonuclease recognition sites. Our analyses revealed that matK and the psbA-trnH spacer each readily amplified and harbored multiple DNA-sequence differences between limber and whitebark pine. The matK coding sequence of whitebark pine has a BsmAI restriction site not found in limber pine. The psbA-trnH spacer of limber pine has two PsiI restriction sites, neither of which is found in whitebark pine. DNA-sequence and restriction-site analysis of the psbA-trnH spacer from 111 trees showed complete congruence between visually and genetically identified limber (n = 68) and whitebark (n = 43) pine trees. We conclude that restriction site analysis of the chloroplast psbA-trnH spacer and matK involves both minimal technical expertize and research funds. These findings should be of value to foresters interested in species identification and distribution modeling, as well as the analysis of fossil pine pollen, given that gymnosperms transmit chloroplast DNA paternally.
An Analysis of the Non-conformities of Certified Companies Operating in Northwestern Russia
Authors: Trishkin Maxim , Karjalainen Timo , Kangas Jyrki
Published: November 2019

Research Highlights: The majority of non-conformities (NCs) occurred under environmental impact (Principle 6) in all regions, and contributed on average to 40% and 48% of the total number of minor and major NCs respectively. Background and Objectives: The performance of certified companies operating has been frequently criticized in Russia. The aim of this study was to analyse the NCs of FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) -certified companies in northwestern (NW) Russia during the period 2011–2015. Materials and Methods: In total, 69 FSC certificates were assessed, representing 112 FSC-certified companies. It should be noted that the number of certificates in this study increased 2.4-fold (from 29 to 69) during the period 2011–2015. At the same time, the number of minor NCs increased only 1.6-fold (from 221 in 2011 to 363 in 2015), while the number of major NCs increased 3.4-fold (from 25 in 2011 to 84 in 2015). Results: During the five-year period, the highest number of NCs was issued in the Arkhangelsk region and in Republic of Karelia, followed by the Vologda region. On the contrary highest number of issued NCs both minor and major per 1000 ha of certified area was in the Novgorod region. The data were also analyzed on leaseholder level and preliminary split into three categories. Conclusions: The number of NCs was, on average, higher for large-sized leaseholders for both the major and minor NCs in comparison to medium- and small-sized leaseholders. However, there were no significant statistical differences observed.
Double Hyperautofluorescent Rings in Patients with USH2A-Retinopathy
Authors: Fakin Ana , Šuštar Maja , Brecelj Jelka , Bonnet Crystel , Petit Christine , Zupan Andrej , Glavač Damjan , Jarc-Vidmar Martina , Battelino Saba , Hawlina Marko
Published: November 2019

USH2A mutation is the most common cause of retinitis pigmentosa, with or without hearing impairment. Patients most commonly exhibit hyperautofluorescent ring on fundus autofluorescence imaging (FAF) and rod-cone dystrophy on electrophysiology. A detailed study of three USH2A patients with a rare pattern of double hyperautofluorescent rings was performed. Twenty-four patients with typical single hyperautofluorescent rings were used for comparison of the ages of onset, visual fields, optical coherence tomography, electrophysiology, and audiograms. Double rings delineated the area of pericentral retinal degeneration in all cases. Two patients exhibited rod-cone dystrophy, whereas the third had a cone-rod dystrophy type of dysfunction on electrophysiology. There was minimal progression on follow-up in all three. Patients with double rings had significantly better visual acuity, cone function, and auditory performance than the single ring group. Double rings were associated with combinations of null and missense mutations, none of the latter found in the single ring patients. According to these findings, the double hyperautofluorescent rings indicate a mild subtype of USH2A disease, characterized by pericentral retinal degeneration, mild to moderate hearing loss, and either a rod-cone or cone-rod pattern on electrophysiology, the latter expanding the known clinical spectrum of USH2A-retinopathy.
Identification of QTN and Candidate Gene for Seed-flooding Tolerance in Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] using Genome-Wide Association Study (GWAS)
Authors: Yu Zheping , Chang Fangguo , Lv Wenhuan , Sharmin Ripa Akter , Wang Zili , Kong Jiejie , Bhat Javaid Akhter , Zhao Tuanjie
Published: November 2019

Seed-flooding stress is one of the major abiotic constraints severely affecting soybean yield and quality. Understanding the molecular mechanism and genetic basis underlying seed-flooding tolerance will be of greatly importance in soybean breeding. However, very limited information is available about the genetic basis of seed-flooding tolerance in soybean. The present study performed Genome-Wide Association Study (GWAS) to identify the quantitative trait nucleotides (QTNs) associated with three seed-flooding tolerance related traits, viz., germination rate (GR), normal seedling rate (NSR) and electric conductivity (EC), using a panel of 347 soybean lines and the genotypic data of 60,109 SNPs with MAF > 0.05. A total of 25 and 21 QTNs associated with all three traits were identified via mixed linear model (MLM) and multi-locus random-SNP-effect mixed linear model (mrMLM) in three different environments (JP14, HY15, and Combined). Among these QTNs, three major QTNs, viz., QTN13, qNSR-10 and qEC-7-2, were identified through both methods MLM and mrMLM. Interestingly, QTN13 located on Chr.13 has been consistently identified to be associated with all three studied traits in both methods and multiple environments. Within the 1.0 Mb physical interval surrounding the QTN13, nine candidate genes were screened for their involvement in seed-flooding tolerance based on gene annotation information and available literature. Based on the qRT-PCR and sequence analysis, only one gene designated as GmSFT (Glyma.13g248000) displayed significantly higher expression level in all tolerant genotypes compared to sensitive ones under flooding treatment, as well as revealed nonsynonymous mutation in tolerant genotypes, leading to amino acid change in the protein. Additionally, subcellular localization showed that GmSFT was localized in the nucleus and cell membrane. Hence, GmSFT was considered as the most likely candidate gene for seed-flooding tolerance in soybean. In conclusion, the findings of the present study not only increase our knowledge of the genetic control of seed-flooding tolerance in soybean, but will also be of great utility in marker-assisted selection and gene cloning to elucidate the mechanisms of seed-flooding tolerance.
Large Russian Lakes Ladoga, Onega, and Imandra under Strong Pollution and in the Period of Revitalization: A Review
Authors: Moiseenko Tatiana , Sharov Andrey
Published: November 2019

In this paper, retrospective analyses of long-term changes in the aquatic ecosystem of Ladoga, Onega, and Imandra lakes, situated within North-West Russia, are presented. At the beginning of the last century, the lakes were oligotrophic, freshwater and similar in origin in terms of the chemical composition of waters and aquatic fauna. Three stages were identified in this study: reference condition, intensive pollution and degradation, and decreasing pollution and revitalization. Similar changes in polluted bays were detected, for which a significant decrease in their oligotrophic nature, the dominance of eurybiont species, their biodiversity under toxic substances and nutrients, were noted. The lakes have been recolonized by northern species following pollution reduction over the past 20 years. There have been replacements in dominant complexes, an increase in the biodiversity of communities, with the emergence of more southern forms of introduced species. The path of ecosystem transformation during and after the anthropogenic stress compares with the regularities of ecosystem successions: from the natural state through the developmental stage to a more stable mature modification, with significantly different natural characteristics. A peculiarity of the newly formed ecosystems is the change in structure and the higher productivity of biological communities, explained by the stability of the newly formed biogeochemical nutrient cycles, as well as climate warming.
Nurse Prescribing-Readiness of Polish Nurses to Take on New Competencies—A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Bartosiewicz Anna , Różański Andrzej
Published: November 2019

From January 2016, nurses in Poland received new competencies for prescribing. The work is the first in Poland to elaborate on the subject of nurses’ readiness to learn and develop in the context of new nursing rights regarding autonomous prescription of medication and continuation of the prescription for medication. The aim of the study is to analyze the readiness of Polish nurses to learn and develop in the context of new competencies to write prescriptions. The research was conducted among 756 nurses. The standardized questionnaire (Readiness of Employees for Learning and Development) was used. For all subscales of readiness for learning and development, average scores prevailed. The readiness to write prescriptions was significantly related to the level of openness to changes in the work environment (A1 scale), self-evaluation of past educational development (C5 scale) and educational and professional goals alignment- employee and company (scale D2) and increasing the readiness of nurses to practice all of the aforementioned agents, in particular medical devices. The readiness of nurses to learn and develop at all levels of the subscales was on an average level. Younger nurses, with a shorter seniority, having higher education and additional qualifications had a higher readiness to prescribe medications and write prescriptions. The higher readiness for learning and development was matched by a greater readiness to prescribe. The results obtained can be used to plan training and courses, as well as to create special pro-development programs, which may increase the nurses’ involvement in personal and professional development.
Factors Related to Change in Depression among North Korean Refugee Youths in South Korea
Authors: Park Subin , Kim Soo Yeon , Lee Eun-Sun , Jun Jin Yong
Published: November 2019

This study investigated change in depression and revealed factors related to change using one-year follow-up data. A sample of 108 North Korean Refugee Youths (NKRYs) aged 13 to 26 years (66 females) was recruited from two alternative schools for NKRYs in South Korea. Based on the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale cut-off score of 16, respondents were grouped based on change in depression score after one year as stable low, alleviated, deteriorated, or prolonged. Multinomial logistic regression assessed the influence of baseline psychological scores (resilience, emotional regulation strategy, and self-esteem), and reported social support (psychological/practical) on the odds of group classification. With the stable low group as the reference category, those with alleviated depression at Time 2 had significantly higher odds of expressive suppression and tended to have lower self-esteem at Time 1. The deteriorated depression group was more likely than the stable low group to have lower resilience and cognitive appraisal scores. Those with prolonged high depression were more likely than the stable low group to have lower resilience, less practical social support, and lower self-esteem. Psychological interventions, particularly those focused on increasing self-esteem and resilience, could be helpful for NKRYs with potential risk of depression. In addition, practical support should be provided on an as-needed basis to prevent chronic depression among NKRYs.
What Do Olympic Shooters Think about Physical Training Factors and Their Performance?
Authors: Mon-López Daniel , Moreira da Silva Francisco , Calero Morales Santiago , López-Torres Olga , Lorenzo Calvo Jorge
Published: November 2019

Background: Many aspects affect precision sports like shooting. Skills such as strength and balance are related to shooting performance and therefore, they should be trained. Thus, planned physical workouts can help to improve Olympic Shooting performance. The main objective of this study was to determine elite shooters’ perspective about fitness trainings. Methods: Eight elite international shooters were interviewed using a semi-structured script validated by an expert shooting committee. Their responses were transcribed and analyzed using qualitative methods. The following categories were obtained: fitness training importance on performance, fitness professional support, precompetitive fitness exercises’ orientation and intensity, main motor abilities, recovery process, fitness evaluation and test and physical training influence on the psychological state. Results: The results suggest that athletes consider physical training as a key factor in their performance. Shooters mainly train strength and endurance exercises, depending on the competitions schedule. However, no consensus exists regarding the professional in charge of fitness trainings, nor the recovery methods to minimize performance losses. In addition, general balance trainings or physical condition tests to evaluate the training progress do not seem to be used. Conclusion: We conclude that there should be greater control of fitness training and recovery processes in Olympic shooting.
Prevalence, Use Behaviors, and Preferences among Users of Heated Tobacco Products: Findings from the 2018 ITC Japan Survey
Authors: Sutanto Edward , Miller Connor , Smith Danielle M. , O’Connor Richard J. , Quah Anne C. K. , Cummings K. Michael , Xu Steve , Fong Geoffrey T. , Hyland Andrew , Ouimet Janine , Yoshimi Itsuro , Mochizuki Yumiko , Tabuchi Takahiro , Goniewicz Maciej L.
Published: November 2019

Heated tobacco products (HTPs), such as IQOS, glo, and Ploom TECH, with a variety of flavored tobacco-containing inserts, have reportedly achieved a significant market share in Japan. We analyzed data from Wave 1 of the ITC Japan Survey, a nationally representative web survey conducted in February to March 2018 among 4684 adult participants to estimate the prevalence of HTP use, describe characteristics of HTP users, and explore user preferences for HTP device and flavor. The overall prevalence of monthly HTP use was 2.7% (1.7% daily use). Virtually all HTP users were current cigarette smokers (67.8%) or former smokers (25.0%); only 1.0% of HTP users were never smokers. Among HTP users, IQOS was the most frequently reported brand used (64.5%), and menthol was the most common flavor reported (41.5%). IQOS was used more by younger respondents and those who reported daily use, while Ploom TECH was more popular among older respondents and non-daily HTP users. This is one of the first non-industry funded studies to explore the use of HTPs in Japan.
Personal Factors, Internet Characteristics, and Environmental Factors Contributing to Adolescent Internet Addiction: A Public Health Perspective
Authors: Chung Sulki , Lee Jaekyoung , Lee Hae Kook
Published: November 2019

Individual characteristics, family- and school-related variables, and environmental variables have equal importance in understanding Internet addiction. Most previous studies on Internet addiction have focused on individual factors; those that considered environmental influence typically only examined the proximal environment. Effective prevention and intervention of Internet addiction require a framework that integrates individual- and environmental-level factors. This study examined the relationships between personal factors, family/school factors, perceived Internet characteristics, and environmental variables as they contribute to Internet addiction among adolescents based on the public health model. A representative sample of 1628 junior high school students from 56 regions in Seoul and Gyeonggi-do participated in the study via questionnaires with the cooperation of the Ministry of Health and Welfare and the district office of education. The study analyzed psychological factors, family cohesion, attitudes toward academic activities, Internet characteristics, accessibility to PC cafés, and exposure to Internet game advertising. About 6% of the adolescents were categorized as being in the severely addicted group. Between-group comparisons showed that the addicted group had started using the Internet earlier; had higher levels of depression, compulsivity, and aggressiveness as well as lower family cohesion; and reported higher accessibility to PC cafés and exposure to Internet game advertising. Multiple logistic regression indicated that for adolescents, environmental factors had a greater influence than family or school-related factors. Policy implications for prevention and intervention are discussed.
Mechanism Underlying Flow Velocity and Its Corresponding Influence on the Growth of Euglena gracilis, a Dominant Bloom Species in Reservoirs
Authors: Tan Yi , Li Jia , Zhang Linglei , Chen Min , Zhang Yaowen , An Ruidong
Published: November 2019

The effects of hydrodynamics on algae growth have received considerable attention, and flow velocity is one of the most frequently discussed factors. For Euglena gracilis, which aggregates resources and is highly resistant to environmental changes, the mechanism underlying the impact of flow velocity on its growth is poorly understood. Experiments were conducted to examine the response of algae growth to different velocities, and several enzymes were tested to determine their physiological mechanisms. Significant differences in the growth of E. gracilis were found at different flow velocities, and this phenomenon is unique compared to the growth of other algal species. With increasing flow velocity and time, the growth of E. gracilis is gradually inhibited. In particular, we found that the pioneer enzyme is peroxidase (POD) and that the main antioxidant enzyme is catalase (CAT) when E. gracilis experiences flow velocity stress. Hysteresis between total phosphorus (TP) consumption and alkaline phosphatase (AKP) synthesis was observed. Under experimental control conditions, the results indicate that flow velocities above 0.1 m/s may inhibit growth and that E. gracilis prefers a relatively slow or even static flow velocity, and this finding could be beneficial for the control of E. gracilis blooms.
Relationship of Cardiorespiratory Fitness and Body Mass Index with the Incidence of Dyslipidemia among Japanese Women: A Cohort Study
Authors: Ohta Takahisa , Nagashima Junzo , Sasai Hiroyuki , Ishii Naokata
Published: November 2019

Low cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and obesity are independent risk factors for dyslipidemia. We investigated the synergistic effects of CRF and obesity on the incidence of dyslipidemia among Japanese women. Of 7627 participants, 927 normolipidemic Japanese women completed a submaximal exercise test, medical examination, and a questionnaire on smoking and alcohol drinking. The incidence of dyslipidemia was defined as having at least one of the following: high-density lipoprotein cholesterol < 40 mg/dL, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol ≥ 140 mg/dL, fasting triglyceride ≥ 150 mg/dL, or physician-diagnosed dyslipidemia. Multivariable hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using a Cox proportional hazard regression model. During the follow-up period of ≤16 years (median 1 year), 196 (21.1%) women developed dyslipidemia. Compared with those in the body mass index (BMI)-specific (< or ≥25.0 kg/m2) lowest CRF tertile, the multivariable HRs for dyslipidemia in the highest CRF tertile were 1.36 (95% CI, 0.75–2.48) for women with BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 and 0.70 (95% CI, 0.45–1.09) for those with BMI < 25 kg/m2 (p < 0.01 for interaction). These results suggest that CRF and BMI are interdependent and, together, they affect the incidence of dyslipidemia among Japanese women. CRF is inversely related to a lower incidence of dyslipidemia with low BMI.
Impact of Birth Weight and Length on Primary Hypertension in Children
Authors: Weres Aneta , Baran Joanna , Czenczek-Lewandowska Ewelina , Leszczak Justyna , Mazur Artur
Published: November 2019

Background: A child’s birth parameters not only enable assessment of intrauterine growth but are also helpful in identifying children at risk of developmental defects or diseases occurring in adulthood. Studies show that children born with a body weight that is small for their gestational age (SGA) are at a greater risk of hypertension though the inverse relation between excessive birth weight and the risk of primary hypertension in children is discussed less frequently. Purpose: To assess the impact of both birth weight and length on hypertension occurring in children aged 3–15 years. Methods: A total of 1000 children attending randomly selected primary schools and kindergartens were examined. Ultimately, the analyses took into account n = 747 children aged 4–15; 52.6% boys and 47.4% girls. The children’s body height and weight were measured; their blood pressure was examined using the oscillometric method. Information on perinatal measurements was retrieved from the children’s personal health records. Results: Compared to the children with small for gestational age (SGA) birth weight, the children with appropriate for gestational age birth weight (AGA) (odds ratio (OR) 1.31; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.64–2.65) present greater risk for primary hypertension. Infants born with excessive body weight >4000 g irrespective of gestational age, compared to infants born with normal body weight, show increased risk of primary hypertension (OR 1.19; 95% CI 0.68–2.06). Higher risk of hypertension is observed in infants born with greater body length (OR 1.03; 95% CI 0.97–1.08). Conclusions: The problem of hypertension may also affect children with birth weight appropriate for gestational age. The prevalence of hypertension in children with AGA birth weight decreases with age. Birth length can be a potential risk factor for hypertension in children and adolescents.
Media Use of Mothers, Media Use of Children, and Parent–Child Interaction Are Related to Behavioral Difficulties and Strengths of Children
Authors: Poulain Tanja , Ludwig Juliane , Hiemisch Andreas , Hilbert Anja , Kiess Wieland
Published: November 2019

The present study investigated the associations of media use of children, media use of mothers, and parent-child interactions with behavioral strengths and difficulties in children. Screen time of 553 2- to 9-year-old children and their mothers were indicated by the daily durations of their TV/games console/computer/mobile phone use. The amount of parent–child interaction was indicated by the frequencies of shared activities at home. Behavioral strengths and difficulties of children were investigated using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. Children whose mothers reported high screen times (>/= 5 h/day) were significantly more likely to show high screen times (>/= 2 h/day). High screen time of children was associated with more conduct problems, more symptoms of hyperactivity/inattention and less prosocial behavior. High screen time of mothers was associated with emotional problems, conduct problems, and symptoms of hyperactivity/inattention. In contrast, a higher frequency of parent–child interactions was associated with fewer conduct problems, fewer peer-relationship problems, and more prosocial behavior of children. Children might use the media behavior of their mothers as a role model for their own media use. Furthermore, the findings suggest that media use of children and mothers and parent–child interaction contribute independently to behavioral strengths and difficulties of children.
Ecosystem Service Values Changes in Response to Land-Use/Land-Cover Dynamics in Dry Afromontane Forest in Northern Ethiopia
Authors: Solomon Negasi , Segnon Alcade C. , Birhane Emiru
Published: November 2019

Despite their importance as sources of ecosystem services supporting the livelihoods of millions of people, forest ecosystems have been changing into other land use systems over the past decades across the world. While forest cover change dynamics have been widely documented in various ecological systems, how these changes affect ecosystem service values has received limited attention. In this study we assessed the impact of land-use/land-cover dynamics on ecosystem service values in dry Afromontane forest in Northern Ethiopia. We estimated ecosystem service values and their changes based on the benefit transfer method using land cover data of the years 1985, 2000, and 2016 with their corresponding locally valid value coefficients and from the Ecosystem service valuation database. The total ecosystem service values of the whole study area were about USD 16.6, 19.0, and 18.1 million in 1985, 2000, and 2016, respectively. The analyses indicated an increase in ecosystem service values from 1985 to 2000 and a decrease in ecosystem service values from 2000 to 2016. Similarly, the contribution of specific ecosystem services increased in the first study period and decreased in the second study period. The findings highlight how forest cover dynamics can be translated into changes in ecosystem service values in dry Afromontane forest ecosystems in Northern Ethiopia and showed how specific ecosystem services contributed to the observed trends. The findings also illustrated the temporal heterogeneity in the impacts of land-use/land-cover dynamics on values of ecosystem services. The findings can serve as crucial inputs for policy and strategy formulations for the sustainable use and management of forest resources and can also guide the allocation of limited resources among competing demands to safeguard the ecosystems that offer the best-valued services.