bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Azimuth-, angle- and frequency-dependent seismic velocities of cracked rocks due to squirt flow
Authors: Alkhimenkov Yury , Caspari Eva , Lissa Simon , Quintal Beatriz
Published: May 2020

Abstract. Understanding the properties of cracked rocks is of great importance in scenarios involving CO2 geological sequestration, nuclear waste disposal, geothermal energy, and hydrocarbon exploration and production. Developing noninvasive detecting and monitoring methods for such geological formations is crucial. Many studies show that seismic waves exhibit strong dispersion and attenuation across a broad frequency range due to fluid flow at the pore scale known as squirt flow. Nevertheless, how and to what extent squirt flow affects seismic waves is still a matter of investigation. To fully understand its angle- and frequency-dependent behavior for specific geometries, appropriate numerical simulations are needed. We perform a three-dimensional numerical study of the fluid–solid deformation at the pore scale based on coupled Lamé–Navier and Navier–Stokes linear quasistatic equations. We show that seismic wave velocities exhibit strong azimuth-, angle- and frequency-dependent behavior due to squirt flow between interconnected cracks. Furthermore, the overall anisotropy of a medium mainly increases due to squirt flow, but in some specific planes the anisotropy can locally decrease. We analyze the Thomsen-type anisotropic parameters and adopt another scalar parameter which can be used to measure the anisotropy strength of a model with any elastic symmetry. This work significantly clarifies the impact of squirt flow on seismic wave anisotropy in three dimensions and can potentially be used to improve the geophysical monitoring and surveying of fluid-filled cracked porous zones in the subsurface.
Set-point optimization in wind farms to mitigate effects of flow blockage induced by gravity waves
Authors: Lanzilao Luca , Meyers Johan
Published: May 2020

Abstract. Recently, it has been shown that flow blockage in large wind farms may lift up the top of the boundary layer, thereby triggering atmospheric gravity waves in the inversion layer and in the free atmosphere. These waves impose significant pressure gradients in the boundary layer causing detrimental consequences in terms of farm's efficiency. In the current study, we investigate the idea of controlling the wind farm in order to mitigate the efficiency drop due to wind-farm induced gravity waves and blockage. The analysis is performed using a fast boundary layer model which divides the vertical structure of the atmosphere into three layers. The wind-farm drag force is applied over the whole wind-farm area in the lowest layer and is directly proportional to the wind-farm thrust set-point distribution. We implement an optimization model in order to derive the thrust-coefficient distribution which maximizes the wind-farm energy extraction. We use a continuous adjoint method to efficiently compute gradients for the optimization algorithm, which is based on a quasi-Newton method. Energy gains are evaluated with respect to a reference thrust-coefficient distribution based on the Betz–Joukowsky set point. We consider thrust coefficients that can change in space, as well as in time, i.e. considering time-periodic signals. However, in all our optimization results, we find that optimal thrust-coefficient distributions are steady; any time-periodic distribution is less optimal. The (steady) optimal thrust-coefficient distribution is inversely related to the vertical displacement of the boundary layer. Hence, it assumes a sinusoidal behaviour in the streamwise direction in subcritical flow conditions, whereas it becomes a U-shaped curve when the flow is supercritical. The sensitivity of the energy gain to the atmospheric state is studied using the developed optimization tool for almost two thousand different atmospheric states. Energy gains of up to 14 % are found for weakly stratified atmospheres in critical flow regimes.
Empleos de calidad para las personas jóvenes: una inversión de presente y de futuro
Authors: Úbeda Miquel , Cabasés M. Àngels , Pardell Agnès
Published: May 2020

La consecución de empleos de calidad y de buenas ofertas de empleo se ha convertido en uno de los objetivos clave de los programas de empleabilidad juvenil; es por ello que los elementos que configuran el empleo de calidad deben ser analizados y problematizados. A través de una aproximación al concepto de empleos de calidad, y de los indicadores propuestos por diferentes organismos internacionales, se analizará en que medida el Sistema Nacional de Garantía Juvenil (SNGJ) está contribuyendo a lograr el reto de los empleos de calidad; o por el contrario, está sirviendo para disminuir cuantitativamente las tasas de desempleo juvenil.
The Reception of George Eliot in China
Authors: Chang He , Wanying Wang
Published: May 2020

George Eliot is the first English female writer translated and introduced into China to guide Chinese women during the late Qing Dynasty (1644–1912) and the Republican period (1912–49). While most of her novels have already been translated into Chinese more than once, there are still two novels, Felix Holt: The Radical and Daniel Deronda, which have been long neglected. Most of Eliot's essays (the only collection of essays translated into Chinese being Silly Novels by Lady Novelists1) and all her poems are still not translated into Chinese yet. On the other hand, though Chinese scholars have applied a variety of perspectives to analyze Eliot as a novelist or a producer of literature, they have still overlooked her importance as a cultural critic. In addition, the mutual interaction and influences between Eliot and China remain not fully exhausted, such as the Chinese elements in her works and her impact upon Chinese writers. Generally speaking, with the International Bi-Century Conference held in 2019, it is apt and appropriate to offer an account of Eliot's reception, with a thorough discussion of the social reasons behind it in China. This study is also expected to shed new light on the future directions of Chinese studies on Eliot.
DESENVOLVIMENTO DE CITRONELA (CYMBOPOGON WINTERIANUS) IRRIGADA COM ESGOTO DOMÉSTICO TRATADO E COM ÁGUA DE ABASTECIMENTO
Authors: Gaspar Gabriel Vidal , Bezerra Francisco Marcus Lima , Mota Francisco Suetônio Bastos
Published: May 2020

Este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar o desenvolvimento de capim citronela (Cymbopogon winterianus) irrigado com água de abastecimento fornecida pela concessionária (TA), esgoto doméstico tratado, após a adição de cloro (TB), e esgoto doméstico tratado, antes da adição de cloro (TC). Utilizou-se o efluente de uma estação de tratamento de esgoto (ETE) do tipo reator anaeróbio de fluxo ascendente (RAFA). A irrigação, com cada efluente, foi realizada em sete vasos, cada vaso com duas mudas do vegetal, totalizando14 plantas. Analisaram-se: índice de clorofila nas folhas (IC); teor de massa seca (MS); teor de massa inerte (MI). Para o IC, os resultados, em Soil Plant Analysis Development (SPAD), foram: 18 (TA), 31,73 (TB) e 37,03 (TC). Para o MS, os resultados, em %m/m, foram: 86,14 (TA), 83,75 (TB) e 82,18 (TC). Para o MI, os resultados, em %m/m, foram: 2,25 (TA), 1,71 (TB) e 1,63 (TC). Percebeu-se que plantas regadas com efluentes tratados apresentaram visualmente um melhor desenvolvimento foliar e tonalidade mais escura deverde. O efluente oriundo do tratamento TC proporcionou a maior produção de clorofila, indicando um maior potencial de aproveitamento. O tratamento TA proporcionou a produção de maiores quantidades de massa seca e de massa inerte.
ESTRATÉGIAS BIOCLIMÁTICAS DE PROJETOS PARA MELHORES DESEMPENHOS AMBIENTAIS EM UNIVERSIDADES NO SUL BAIANO
Authors: Santos Cristiane Rabelo
Published: May 2020

Esta investigação visa apontar alternativas para melhor desempenho ambiental de instituições de ensino, baseadas nos princípios da ecologia industrial, da infraestrutura verde e da arquitetura bioclimática. Com base na Rrevisão de literatura técnica e em visitas de campo, foram elaboradas propostas voltadas às necessidades levantadas no diagnóstico sistêmico do campus Sosígenes Costa da Universidade Federal do Sul da Bahia (UFSB), em Porto Seguro. O objetivo deste trabalho é recomendar soluções paraprojetos que proporcionem melhor eficiência energética das edificações, alternando as fontes convencionais de energia elétrica para as fontes de energia mais limpa para reduzir os custos operacionais do campus, combase em sistemas de ventilação naturais e de soluções arquitetônicas desenvolvidas segundo a bioclimatologia local e os parâmetros de conforto ambiental, os quais são focados na melhoria da capacidade de aprendizagem nos ambientes de ensino. Ações foram propostas com o objetivo de contribuirpara a redução de impactos e de custos nas instituições de ensino e tornar suas sedes exemplos que aproximam as pessoas da sustentabilidade.
Evaluación de competencias en las prácticas de la carrera de Economía de la FAREM Estelí
Authors: Gómez García Reynaldo
Published: May 2020

Este documento expone la experiencia de la evaluación por competencias de la carrera de economía en el curso de prácticas de familiarización. El enfoque de competencias se orienta a la enseñanza, aprendizaje y evaluación, centrado en el estudiante, particularmente en los resultados de aprendizaje. En este documento se consideran aspectos conceptuales de prácticas profesionales (y sus etapas), competencias (y términos cercanos), tipos de competencias y la evaluación por competencias. Luego se comparte la experiencia de las prácticas en la carrera de economía y los resultados de una encuesta aplicada a los estudiantes. Desde la perspectiva de los docentes se señalan algunas directrices para una formación basada en competencias, que permita evaluar las competencias de los estudiantes.
Luchas y desafíos de los movimientos sociales en centro América en el último quinquenio
Authors: Larín de Vides Zulma
Published: May 2020

Este ensayo pretende dar algunas luces del como los movimientos sociales son importantes organizaciones que se han formado en la historia de la humanidad para buscar alternativas y soluciones a las condiciones de vida que hacen que una sociedad sea más culta, prospera y donde el ejercicio del goce pleno de los Derechos Humanos desde la inclusión, igualdad y equidad deben ser el motor de trabajo de todos los estados. También este ensayo pretende dar una idea general del como los movimientos sociales han estado realizando su trabajo en los últimos 5 años en Centro América; Así como algunos desafíos y retos que hay como movimientos sociales en la región.
Políticas Públicas en la Educación Superior Virtual Nicaragüense
Authors: Jaime Manzanarez Bryan Alexander
Published: May 2020

En este ensayo se aborda algunos esfuerzos del Gobierno de Reconciliación y Unidad Nacional de Nicaragua en el desarrollo de programas y proyectos que benefician hoy en día a miles de ciudadanos nicaragüenses con educación superior gratuita y de calidad. De este enfoque, examinaremos las estrategias de gobierno que han hecho realidad el sueño de muchos estudiantes, formándolos profesionalmente desde la modalidad virtual, contribuyendo así al desarrollo económico de sus familias y de su país. La educación es un derecho que todo ser humano debe poseer, sin ninguna exclusión social, política o religiosa. La educación es una responsabilidad de todos los gobiernos del mundo y éstos deben velar por una educación gratuita e incluyente.
Mapping Evidence on the Management of Diabetic Retinopathy Using Teleophthalmology to Complement Human Resources for Eye Health: A Scoping Review Protocol
Authors: Zikhali Thembile , Xulu-Kasaba Zamadonda Nokuthula
Published: May 2020

INTRODUCTION: Diabetic Retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness in working adults, and remains a serious public health concern, globally. Whilst extensive research has been done in this area, the prevention of diabetic retinopathy is still very poor. Attributing factors in previous studies have included shortage of Human Resources for Eye Health in primary health centres, and a shortage of technology and skill in most countries. In some countries, teleophthalmology has been introduced to assist in the management of diabetic retinopathy by capacitating Eye Health professionals in primary health care settings since diabetes is diagnosed at this level. Where implemented, management of diabetic retinopathy through teleophthalmology has further contributed to reduction in preventable blindness while minimizing turnaround times as patients no longer have to wait for an Ophthalmologist appointment. The main objective of this scoping review is to map evidence on the use of teleophthalmology in the management of diabetic retinopathy globally.

METHODS & ANALYSIS: Methodology will be guided by Arksey and O’Malley scoping review framework. We will search for literature from the following EBSCO Host databases: MEDLINE, Health source: Nursing/Academic Edition, Health source – Consumer, CINAHL and Academic Search Complete. PubMed, Google Scholar and Science Direct will also be searched for studies. Where articles are not accessible online, the author will be contacted for the article, failing which the University of KwaZulu-Natal library services will be asked for assistance. The literature search will be done for the period from January 2014 to October 2019 where all studies in English will be accepted. After the initial search, title, abstract and full text screening will be conducted by two independent reviewers. To assess the methodological rigour of included studies, the Mixed Method Appraisal tool (MMAT) 2018 will be used. Study results will be presented using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) chart.

DISCUSSION: It is anticipated that this scoping review will identify suitable literature on diabetic retinopathy and its management through teleophthalmology. The findings of this review will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals and information summarized will be used to guide future research.
New Spirometry? The 2019 Update of the Test Standardization
Authors: Boros Piotr , Martusewicz-Boros Magdalena
Published: May 2020

Spirometry is a commonly performed assessment of lung function for diagnostic purposes as well as for monitoring of chronic lung diseases [...]
The -463G/A and -129G/A Myeloperoxidase-Encoding Gene Polymorphism in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Witusik Andrzej , Mokros Łukasz , Szemraj Janusz , Kuna Piotr , Pietras Tadeusz
Published: May 2020

Introduction: Neutrophils are involved in the pathogenesis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Myeloperoxidase is an important bactericidal granulocytic enzyme. It is of interest to question whether or not the polymorphic variants of the myeloperoxidase-encoding gene are associated with the risk of developing COPD. Material and methods: The study determined the risk of COPD development in 186 COPD patients and 220 healthy subjects in the context of two selected polymorphic sites of the promoter region of the myeloperoxidase-encoding gene. Results: It has been demonstrated that the AA genotype of locus -463 in the myeloperoxidase-encoding gene increases the risk of developing COPD (OR: 2.87; CI: 1.651–4.997). This genotype also correlates with a higher gene expression in patients (0.56 ± 0.12 vs. 0.31 ± 0.18 in patients with AG genotype and 0.29 ± 0.17, p < 0.01 in those with GG genotype). In healthy indivi-duals, the AA genotype was also characterized by increased expression of the myeloperoxidase-encoding gene (0.41 ± 0.16 vs. 0.29 ± 0.15 for AG genotype, p < 0.01 and 0.25 ± 0.16 for GG genotype p < 0.01). Patients with the AA genotype had a significantly higher gene expression than healthy subjects with this genotype. Conclusions: The polymorphic site −129 of the myeloperoxidase-encoding gene was unrelated to the development of COPD. The gene expression did not differ for the individual genotypes. Our studies indicate that the polymorphism of the myeloperoxidase-encoding gene may be related to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Transbronchial Lung Cryobiopsy Guided by Radial Mini-Probe Endobronchial Ultrasound in Interstitial Lung Diseases—A Multicenter Prospective Study
Authors: Gnass Maciej , Filarecka Anna , Bartczak Artur , Szołkowska Małgorzata , Knapczyk Agnieszka , Lis Monika , Skrobot Monika , Soja Jerzy , Misiaszek Magadlena , Barszczok Łukasz , Czyżewski Damian , Szlubowski Artur
Published: May 2020

Introduction: Transbronchial lung cryobiopsy (TBLC) is commonly used in diagnosing interstitial lung diseases (ILDs). Ageneral anesthesia with endotracheal intubation, balloon blockers and fluoroscopy control is the most common modality. Simplifying the procedure without decreasing it’s safety could result in wider use. Prospective, observational study was conducted in three Polish pulmonology centers to evaluate safety and diagnostic yield of TBLC under conscious sedation, without intubation and bronchial blockers and with radial-EBUS guidance instead of fluoroscopy. Material and methods: In patients suspected of ILD, in accordance with high resolution computer tomography (HRCT) selected lung segments were examined with radial-EBUS mini probe without aguide sheath. If the lung infiltrations were visible this locations were preferred. If not, specimens were taken from two different segments of the same lobe. Two to five biopsies with freezing time 5–8 seconds were performed. Moreover ultrasound examination was used to avoid injury of lung vessels. Results: From March 2017 to September 2019 — 114 patients (M: 59, F: 55) of mean (SD) age 54 (14) years were included to the study on the basis of medical history and HRCT. Histopathology was conclusive in 90 (79%) patients and included 16 different diagnoses (sarcoidosis, EAA, COP predominantly). 24 inconclusive biopsies of unclassifiable pulmonary fibrosis were followed up. Complications included five cases (4.4%) of pneumothorax requiring achest tube drainage and aminor and moderate bleeding in few cases. There was no need for use of balloon bronchial blockers. Conclusions: TBLC under conscious sedation guided by radial EBUS mini-probe is novel, reasonable and safe technique for histological diagnosis of ILDs.
Dangerous Risk Factors to be Considered for Proper Management of Agroecosystems
Authors: Massarelli Carmine , Campanale Claudia , Felice Uricchio Vito
Published: May 2020

Our work aims to identify the main risks existing in the agroecosystems of southern Italy, providing, at the same time, information about innovative and fast methodologies. The goal is to understand the magnitude of the phenomena that could compromise them if no action is taken for water and soil matrices. Regarding the former we will consider plant protection product residues in water bodies and the importance of agroecosystems as source of microplastic pollution and their role as a vector of pollutants; regarding the latter, we will present a rapid and low-cost methodology to detect asbestos-containing materials and significantly transformed areas. Furthermore, indications are provided on how to implement effective monitoring plans in order to certainly identify the problem affecting one or more matrices and provide practical instructions to the administrators to implement the appropriate remediation strategies.
Heightening of an Existing Embankment Dam: Results from Numerical Simulations
Authors: Yumeng Zhu , Li Guoying , Mi Zhankuan , Fu Zhongzhi , Wei Kuangmin
Published: May 2020

The old dam of the Zhushou Reservoir is a clay core rock-debris dam with a maximum height of 63.4 m. After heightening, the new dam is a concrete-faced rockfill dam with a maximum height of 98.1 m. In the initial design stage, a rigid connection is proposed between the cutoff wall and toe slab. After the concrete cutoff wall is built at the axis of the old dam, a complete cutoff system is composed of cutoff wall, toe slab, and face slab. In this paper, based on the static and dynamic tests of dam materials, the Shen Zhujiang double-yield surface elastic-plastic model is used as the static constitutive model, and the contact friction model is used as the contact surface model. The three-dimensional finite element method is used to simulate the construction filling and water storage process during operation. The simulation results show that the maximum horizontal displacement occurs in the dam body of the old dam and the maximum settlement occurs at the interface between the old and new dams. During the storage period, the cutoff wall will not be damaged, and the tensile stress of the local area at the junction of toe slab and bank slope has exceeded the allowable value for C30 plain concrete, so the reinforcement should be strengthened at this location.
Charging and Discharging Mechanism of Polyimide under Electron Irradiation and High Voltage
Authors: Wang Xiaoping , Min Daomin , Li Shengtao
Published: May 2020

Polyimide has been widely used as insulating and structural materials in spacecraft due to its excellent electrical, thermal and mechanical properties. However, its charging and discharging problem in harsh space environment has been a major limit to the development of high-voltage and high-power spacecraft. In this chapter, charging and discharging phenomena of dielectric materials under electron irradiation environment were presented. First, the electrical properties of polyimide consisting of dielectric properties, trap properties, conductivity and electrical breakdown properties were investigated, which have great influences on charging and discharging characteristics. Then, a surface charging model under relatively low-energy electron irradiation was proposed for polyimide, based on the synergistic effects of electron movement above surface and charge transport in surface layer. The DC surface flashover of polyimide under electron irradiation with different energies, fluxes and incident angles was investigated. Furthermore, a deep charging model under high-energy electron irradiation with the Fluence Model for Internal Charging (FLUMIC) spectrum was established. The effects of electron flux enhancement and operating voltage on charging characteristics were discussed in different grounding modes. It indicates that the processes of discharging under electron irradiation have a close link with the charge transport characteristics of polyimide.
Glucose or Sucrose Intakes and Plasma Levels of Essential and Nonessential Amino Acids
Authors: Takada Akikazu , Shimizu Fumiko , Ishii Yukie , Ogawa Mutsumi , Takao Tetsuya
Published: May 2020

It is not known whether the administration of glucose or sucrose influences plasma levels of amino acids. We want to know whether plasma levels of amino acids and if the administration of glucose or sucrose are different in young and old men and are influenced by the administration of glucose or sucrose. We found that the levels of most amino acids in plasma are lower in old men than young men. When sucrose was administered to old men, levels of total amino acids decreased significantly in old men. In both old and young men plasma levels of total nonessential amino acids significantly decreased at 120 min. after the administration of glucose but not sucrose. On the other hand, total essential and branched amino acids levels decreased significantly after the administration of both glucose and sucrose in young and old men. From these results, responses to the administration of glucose were different from the response to sucrose between young and old men. Also glucose was more effective in decreasing plasma levels of various amino acids. These results seem to suggest that glucose was more effective in stimulating insulin release and young men were more responsive to sugar than old men in stimulating insulin release.
Influence of the Doping Ion Nature and Content on Defect Creation Processes under the Effect of Ionizing Radiation in Aluminoborosilicate Glasses
Authors: Malchukova Eugenia
Published: May 2020

Effects of ionizing irradiation on defect creation processes have been studied in rare earth (RE)-doped (RE = Sm, Gd, Eu, Ce, Nd) aluminoborosilicate glass with use of the electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) and optical spectroscopy. As a function of RE ion nature, we observe that doping significantly influences the nature of the defects produced during irradiation and more specifically the relative proportions between hole and electron defect centers. Strong decrease of defect production efficiency under ionizing radiation independence on both the RE doping content and on the relative stability of the RE different oxidation states is also clearly revealed. The results could be explained by dynamical reversible trapping of the electron-hole pairs produced during irradiation on the different RE charge states as well as by RE segregation and pre-existing defects speciation in ABS glass structure.
Validação portuguesa do multidimensional assessment of interoceptive awareness (maia)
Authors: Salvador Vanessa Florindo , Berenguer Claudia , Ribeiro Celina , Costa Rui Miguel
Published: May 2020

Objectivo

Consciência interoceptiva refere-se à percepção consciente dos estados internos do organismo. O presente trabalho pretendeu a validação do Multidimensional Assessment of Interoceptive Awareness (MAIA) recolhida a partir de uma amostra não probabilística de 755 indivíduos.

Método

O MAIA é originalmente constituído por 32 itens (divididos em oito dimensões) que assumem como possibilidade de resposta uma escala de Likert de 6 pontos. O estudo das qualidades métricas deste instrumento realizou-se com recurso a análise factorial exploratória (N = 376) e, numa amostra diferente, a análise factorial confirmatória (N = 379).

Resultados

Verificou-se uma estrutura diferente da original, mantendo-se o seu significado psicológico e características de validade, sensibilidade e fiabilidade adequadas.

Conclusão

Obtiveram-se quatro dimensões (Regulação Atencional; Consciência Emocional; Escuta Corporal e Confiança), as quais correspondem a dimensões da medida original.
Funding Innovation Thanks to Anti-TNF-α Biosimilars Uptake: The Economic Impact in Italy
Authors: Povero Massimiliano , Pradelli Lorenzo
Published: May 2020

INTRODUCTION: Anti-TNF-α biosimilars (ATB) hold the promise of reducing costs leading in improving access to bio-logical therapies. There is limited insight into how the savings generated by biosimilars may translate into patient benefit in other disease areas.AIMS: To assess the economic savings for Italian National Health System (NHS) due to the expansion of ATB market, together with a reduction in their price and to illustrate how this potential savings can be used by NHS to fund orphan drugs.METHODS: Trend of IMS Health monthly sell-in units (August 2016-December 2019) were used to estimate the current biologic and biosimilar market for rheumatic and inflammatory bowel disease in Italy and its evolution up to 2022. The scenario for 2019-2020 was compared with the future evolution (2021-2022) assuming an increasing uptake of biosimilars in the Italian market. Finally, it was estimated how these savings can potentially fund the treatment of orphan drugs, without increasing the Italian NHS budget.RESULTS: Italian biologic and biosimilar market remains stable in the next years (about 4 million units both in the current scenario and in the future evolution market) with a slight decreasing of less than 2%. However, according to our assump-tions, ATB market is expected to increase of about 33% in the next two years, covering 67% of the total Italian market, mostly due to biosimilar etanercept. Total savings due to biosimilars increases from € 96 million in 2019 to € 161 million in 2022 corresponding to a mean annual savings of about € 130 million. Such savings would permit funding 17.4% of the actual orphan drugs market corresponding to 2,600-4,800 new patients.CONCLUSIONS: The introduction of biosimilars in a range of rheumatic, dermatological and inflammatory bowel disease can be an opportunity to increase patient access to innovative treatments. Potential savings due to biosimilars uptake could lead to a re-allocation of economic resources to fund innovative therapies.
Resilience Portfolios and Poly-Strengths: Identifying Strengths Associated with Wellbeing after Adversity
Authors: Moisan Caroline , Hébert Martine , Fernet Mylène , Blais Martin , Amédée Laetitia Mélissande
Published: May 2020

Objectives: This study aimed to describe the prevalence of traumas and strengths in a representative sample of Quebec youth and to test whether poly-strengths were associated with low psychological distress, after controlling for poly-traumas. Method: Using data from the Quebec Youths’ Romantic Relationships survey (QYRRS), hierarchical logistic regressions were conducted to examine the relationship between poly-strengths and low levels of psychological distress, and to identify which strengths were associated with outcomes, after accounting for demographic variables and individuals’ experiences of traumas. Results: More than a third of the sample experienced 4 traumas or more (37.0%). The average number of experienced traumas was 3.04 out of 10 measured traumas. More than half of the sample had at least 5 strengths, the average number of strengths being 3.95 (out of 8). Two third (67.6%) of the sample did not suffer from psychological distress. Among poly-victims, half of the participants (49.6%) showed clinical symptoms of distress. Poly-strengths were uniquely associated with low of clinical distress. After accounting for demographics and poly-traumas, poly-strengths explained 24.2% of the variance of low levels of psychological distress. Self-esteem, optimism, parental support and attachment, number of sources of support, social support (seeking secure base), and capacity to adapt (resiliency) were uniquely associated with low levels of distress. Conclusion and Implications: The combination of strengths decreases the likelihood of experiencing clinical levels of psychological distress, which can contribute to healthy functioning in context of adversities. Findings highlight the importance of promoting multiple and diverse strengths among youth.
Hellebrigenin anti-pancreatic cancer effects based on apoptosis and autophage
Authors: Wei Xiaolu , He Jing , Gao Bo , Han Lingyu , Mao Yingqiu , Zhao Haiyu , Si Nan , Wang Hongjie , Yang Jian , Bian Baolin
Published: May 2020

Hellebrigenin is a natural product found in the toad skin secretions and plants of Urginea, including Hellebores and Kalanchoe genera. It has been shown to be active against Leishmania chagasi promastigotes and Trypanosoma cruzi trypomastigotes and also reported to play an anti-tumor effect on several cancer cell lines in vitro, including pancreatic cancer. This study is aimed to investigate the effects of Hellebrigenin on pancreatic carcinoma cells, SW1990 and BxPC-3 in vitro and its molecular mechanism involved in antitumor activities. Our results showed that Hellebrigenin effectively inhibited the proliferation of SW1990 and BxPC-3 cells in dose- and time-dependent manner. Flow cytometry results showed that Hellebrigenin induced the G0/G1 arrest in both of SW1990 and BxPC-3 cells and promoted cell early apoptosis and autophagy according to morphological observation. Immunofluorescence staining results further confirmed that cell apoptosis and autophagy also increased upon the Hellebrigenin treatment. Moreover, higher dose of Hellebrigenin further increased the cell apoptosis rate while decrease the mitochondrial membrane potential 24 h after treatment. The autophagy rate increased 48 h after treatment with significant difference (P < 0.05). Western blot analysis showed that the expression of caspase 3, 7, cleaved caspase 7, Atg 12, LC3 proteins were increased in SW1990 cell after treatment with Hellebrigenin. In addition, increasing expression of caspase 3, 7, 9, PARP, cleaved caspase 3, 7, 9, PARP, the sub basic protein of the PI3K family, Beclin-1, LC 3, Atg 3, 5, 12, 16 L were also observed after BxPC-3 cells treated with Hellebrigenin. In summary, this study reported for the first time that Hellebrigenin effectively induced autophagy and apoptosis especially the early apoptosis in SW1990 and BxPC-3 cells.
Cockroach (Periplaneta americana): Nutritional Value as Food and Feed For Man and Livestock
Authors: Boate Ukoroije, Rosemary , Suotonye Bawo, Dorcas
Published: May 2020

Aim: To ascertain scientifically by proximate analysis, the nutrient composition and mineral contents of the American cockroach Periplaneta americana.

Study Design: Completely randomized sample design (CRD) was engaged in the study with 15 parameters replicated five (5) times, totaling seventy five experimental samples. The whole experiments were repeated in three trials.

Place and Duration of Study: Postgraduate laboratory, Faculty of Science, Niger Delta University Wilberforce Island, Bayelsa State, Nigeria between September 2019 and February 2020.

Methodology: The nutrient composition and mineral profile of the cockroaches were ascertained using randomly selected cockroach sample while adopting standard procedures of AOAC, (1990, 2005).Statistical analysis and significant difference tested at alpha level p≤ 0.05 was done using Turkey HSD test for difference between mean while results were presented in tables. The software used was SPSS version 20.

Results: The results for proximate analysis of nutrients found in P. americana are given as follows: moisture content: 12.42±1.6%, Crude ash: 3.52±0.8%, crude protein: 8.72±1.3%, crude fat: 17.64±1.9%, fibre: 21.28±2.1%, Carbohydrate (dry method): 87.56±4.2% and Carbohydrate (free nitrogen extract): 48.76±3.1%. Furthermore, P. americana was proven rich in both micro and macro minerals in very high to low concentrations such as:calcium (468.00±9.7mg/100g), magnesium (362.00±8.5mg/100g), iron (274.60±7.4mg/100g), potassium (242.5±7.0 mg/100g), phosphorus (128.76±5.1mg/100g), sodium (110.68±4.7mg/100g), manganese (12.63±1.6mg/ 100g), copper (7.54±1.2mg/100g) and zinc (4.74±1.0mg/100g). All results were calculated as mean percentages of five experimental evaluations.

Conclusion: Cockroaches are omnivores and feed on rotten vegetables, waste products from industries such as brewer’s yeast, leftover bread, brewer’s spent grains and several other food materials, hence they are very well efficient at turning plant based feed into animal protein. This makes them efficient projectors for addressing the problem of shortage of animal proteins thereby fulfilling the food security goal of sustainable development.
Spectroscopic Analysis of Flavonoids Isolated from Pongamia pinnata L. Seed Oil
Authors: Abbasi Muhammad S. A. , Tahir Muhammad Aslam
Published: May 2020

Current work comprises of chemical investigation of flavonoids present in Pongamia pinnata (L) seed oil. Purification of flavonoids was established by using UV, FTIR, MS and NMR spectroscopic analysis. Three isolated flavonoids were identified as, namely, Kanjone, Pongapin and Lanceolatin-B. This work led to the development of easy isolation methods with improved yields and the future prospects of commercial scale processing of these flavonoids directly from plant source.
Prevalence and Pattern of Skin Diseases among School Age Children at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Nigeria: A Hospital Based Study
Authors: Altraide D. D. , Alex-Hart B. A.
Published: May 2020

Background: Skin diseases are common among school age children. In the absence of population based studies, data from hospital based studies could be a pointer to the enormity of the problem within the community.

Objective: To evaluate the prevalence and pattern of skin diseases among school age children at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH).

Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective review of the records of all children aged 6-18 years seen at the dermatology clinic of the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital from January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2019. Socio-demographic characteristics and diagnosis were obtained from the clinic register. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 20.0.

Results: Three hundred and forty- seven patients aged 6 -18 years were seen over the period under review. Males were 165 (47.55%) and females were 182 (52.45%). The mean age was10.79±3.35 years. The overall prevalence of skin disease was 16.3%. The five most common diagnoses were Papular urticaria 10.35%, Scabies 10.08%, Atopic dermatitis 8.72% and Dermatophyte infections 8.17%. One hundred and two (29.4%) patients out of the 347 patients with skin diseases, had transmissible skin diseases of which scabies 37 (36.27%) was the commonest.The commonest Dermatophyte infection was Tinea corporis 15 (50.00%), followed by Tinea capitis 7 (23.33%).

Conclusion: School age children made up significant number of patients seen at the dermatology clinic at UPTH and almost a third of them had transmissible skin disease. An effective School Health Programme will curb the spread of transmissible skin disease within schools in Port Harcourt.
Design and Fabrication of a Watermelon Ripeness Tester Using Matlab Software GUI
Authors: Okafor V. C.
Published: May 2020

A non-destructive way to determine the ripeness of watermelon is very difficult, by outward characteristics such as size or external colour and used methods include different limitations. In this study a simple and intelligent method to determine the ripeness of watermelon was designed and developed by integrating a conventional method with electronics device, the ripeness of watermelon can be determined easily and reliable. Microphone was placed under the fruit sample to record a thumping signal. The recorded signals were converted into Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) waveform using MATLAB Software. The patterns of FFT waveforms were analysed using average magnitude at the frequency between 100 Hz and 4000 Hz to classify the ripeness. The average magnitude of was within the range of 0.00019 to 0.00030, and the magnitudes below 0.00025 were termed unripe and magnitudes above 0.00025 were termed ripe. Recommendations for further studies were stated.
Palynomorphs and Age Characterization of Rock Succession in Well X-1, OML 108, Offshore Niger Delta Nigeria
Authors: Asadu Anthonia Nwaneze , Odumoso Solomon Emeke
Published: May 2020

Palynological studies in Nigeria are mainly confined to the Tertiary Niger Delta, where several studies have been carried out for the discovery of natural oil and gas in this particular basin during late 1950s. The accuracy and profitability of the exploration process can be enhanced by the micropaleontological monitoring through the palynological analysis of ditch cuttings for age determination. Fifty ditch cutting samples from intervals 8040 ft and 11010 ft of Well X-1, OML 108, Ukpokiti field, offshore Niger Delta Nigeria were analyzed for their palynofloral content, in a view to establish the biozonation framework for the purpose of age characterization of the rock succession. Palynological sample processing and analysis followed standard methods of treatments with different concentrations of Hydrochloric acid, Hydrofluoric acid and organic acid for digestion of carbonates, removal of silicates and washing or centrifuging for concentration of the palynomorphs respectively in order to liberate the palynomorphs from the extraneous organic matter in the rock matrix. The palynofloral analysis yielded a total number of forty-three (43) pollen, seven (7) spores and one dinoflagellate cyst, from which four subzones based on palynofloral assemblage of marker species, their stratigraphic tops and base including their abundance and diversity were recognized. The zones are from youngest to oldest: Stereisporites sp, Racemonocolpiteshians, Verrutricolporitesrotundiporus and Retibrevitricolporitesobodoensis/protundens zones corresponding with pollen sub zones:P850-830, P820, P780 and P770respectively, indicatingLate Miocene to Middle Miocene age.

In conclusion, the palyno – zones of this study compare well with the pollen zones of [3], therefore shows that the rock succession was deposited during the Middle to Late Miocene epoch.
Analysis of the Emergency Fire Response Team for Disaster Response in Japan
Authors: Choi Hyeongho , Lee Euipyeong
Published: May 2020

32,000 fire fighters from 451 fire departments in 41 prefectures were mobilized to support and assist fire extinguishing and lifesaving in the Hyogo Prefecture Nanbu Earthquake that occurred on January 17, 1995. Based on this experience, the emergency fire response team for disaster response (EFRT) was established by the Fire and Disaster Management Agency (FDMA) on June 30, 1995. When large scale disasters occur over wide areas, EFRTs in Japan are dispatched to the disaster places to assist fire fighting on demand or by the order of the commissioner of the FDMA. This study analyzed the background required for establishing the EFRT; the process and details of the legislation; the establishment of basic plans, organizations, and operation plans; and assistance dispatch along with the plan for receiving outside support; registration and the plan for reinforcing equipment; the status of training for preparing assistance dispatch; and activity results in order to provide basic information to prepare large scale disasters and establish coping policies in Korea.
Establishing Standard Elements for Disaster-Cause Analysis Based on GIS and Forensics
Authors: Lee Mi Ran
Published: May 2020

In line with the disaster management objective, “identifying the causes of recurring disasters and presenting solutions to prevent recurrence” should be supported by objective data based on the analysis of the disaster occurrence mechanism and empirical facts from a technical engineering perspective. The disaster-cause analysis uses scientific and objective methods to identify the processes in which the hazards inherent in a particular area act as causal factors. Unlike earlier approaches to disaster investigation, this study seeks to identify reasonable alternatives by analyzing the root causes and planning solutions of multi-disciplinary approaches. Further, it aims to present a methodological framework and establish standard elements for a disaster-cause analysis based on GIS and Disaster Forensics. The combined analysis results of the standard elements for a disaster-cause analysis was described as the “disaster profile” of the landslide of Mt. Umyeon in Seoul in 2011. The methodological framework and standard elements presented in this study can be utilized for scientific investigation of the causes of disasters and the establishment of an inventory of disaster-cause information in the future. This is expected to contribute toward securing objectivity and reliability in investigating the causes of a disaster.
Emerging roles of metazoan cell cycle regulators as coordinators of the cell cycle and differentiation
Authors: Kimata Yuu , Leturcq Maïté , Aradhya Rajaguru
Published: May 2020

In multicellular organisms, cell proliferation must be tightly coordinated with other developmental processes to form functional tissues and organs. Despite significant advances in our understanding of how the cell cycle is controlled by conserved cell‐cycle regulators (CCRs), how the cell cycle is coordinated with cell differentiation in metazoan organisms and how CCRs contribute to this process remain poorly understood. Here, we review the emerging roles of metazoan CCRs as intracellular proliferation‐differentiation coordinators in multicellular organisms. We illustrate how major CCRs regulate cellular events that are required for cell fate acquisition and subsequent differentiation. To this end, CCRs employ diverse mechanisms, some of which are separable from those underpinning the conventional cell‐cycle‐regulatory functions of CCRs. By controlling cell‐type‐specific specification/differentiation processes alongside the progression of the cell cycle, CCRs enable spatiotemporal coupling between differentiation and cell proliferation in various developmental contexts in vivo. We discuss the significance and implications of this underappreciated role of metazoan CCRs for development, disease and evolution.
Ultrastable MXene@Pt/SWCNTs' Nanocatalysts for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Cui Cong , Cheng Renfei , Zhang Hui , Zhang Chao , Ma Yonghui , Shi Chao , Fan Bingbing , Wang Hailong , Wang Xiaohui
Published: May 2020

Developing nano‐ or atom‐scale Pt‐based electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is of considerable importance to mitigate the issues associated with low abundance of Pt. Here, a protocol for constructing a hierarchical Pt––MXene–single‐walled carbon nanotubes' (SWCNTs) heterostructure for HER catalysts is presented. In the heterostructure, highly active nano/atom‐scale metallic Pt is immobilized on Ti3C2Tx MXene flakes (MXene@Pt) that are connected with conductive SWCNTs' network. The hierarchical heterostructure is constructed by filtrating a mixed colloidal suspension containing MXene@Pt and SWCNTs. Taking the advantages of the hydrophilicity and reducibility of MXene, the MXene@Pt colloidal suspension is prepared by spontaneously reducing Pt cations into metallic Pt without additional reductants or post‐treatments. The so‐fabricated hierarchical HER catalysts, in the form of membrane, show high stability during 800 h operation, a high volume current density of up to 230 mA cm−3 at −50 mV versus reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) and a low overpotential of −62 mV versus RHE at the current density of −10 mA cm−2. This solution‐processed strategy offers a simple, efficient, yet scalable approach to construct stable and efficient HER catalysts. Given the properties and the structure–activity relationships of the hierarchical Pt–MXene–SWCNTs' heterostructure, other MXenes probably show greater promise in HER electrocatalysis.
Capacitive versus Pseudocapacitive Storage in MXene
Authors: Ando Yasunobu , Okubo Masashi , Yamada Atsuo , Otani Minoru
Published: May 2020

MXene electrodes in electrochemical capacitors have a distinctive behavior that is both capacitive and pseudocapacitive depending on the electrolyte. In this work, to better understand their electrochemical mechanism, first‐principles calculations based on the density functional theory combined with the implicit solvation model are used (termed as 3D reference‐interaction‐site model). From the viewpoint of their electronic states, the hydration shell prevents orbital coupling between MXene and the intercalated ions, which leads to the formation of an electric‐double layer and capacitive behavior. However, once the cations are partially dehydrated and adsorbed onto the MXene surface, because of orbital coupling of the cation states with the MXene states, particularly for surface‐termination groups, charge transfer occurs and results in a pseudocapacitive behavior.
Flow Rate Affects Nanoparticle Uptake into Endothelial Cells
Authors: Chen Yih Yang , Syed Abdullah Muhammad , MacMillan Presley , Rocheleau Jonathan V. , Chan Warren C. W.
Published: May 2020

Nanoparticles are commonly administered through systemic injection, which exposes them to the dynamic environment of the bloodstream. Injected nanoparticles travel within the blood and experience a wide range of flow velocities that induce varying shear rates to the blood vessels. Endothelial cells line these vessels, and have been shown to uptake nanoparticles during circulation, but it is difficult to characterize the flow‐dependence of this interaction in vivo. Here, a microfluidic system is developed to control the flow rates of nanoparticles as they interact with endothelial cells. Gold nanoparticle uptake into endothelial cells is quantified at varying flow rates, and it is found that increased flow rates lead to decreased nanoparticle uptake. Endothelial cells respond to increased flow shear with decreased ability to uptake the nanoparticles. If cells are sheared the same way, nanoparticle uptake decreases as their flow velocity increases. Modifying nanoparticle surfaces with endothelial‐cell‐binding ligands partially restores uptake to nonflow levels, suggesting that functionalizing nanoparticles to bind to endothelial cells enables nanoparticles to resist flow effects. In the future, this microfluidic system can be used to test other nanoparticle–endothelial cell interactions under flow. The results of these studies can guide the engineering of nanoparticles for in vivo medical applications.