bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SYNTHESIS AND RESEARCH OF LANTHANIDE-CONTAINING HYBRID MATERIALS BASED ON POLYHEDRAL OLIGOMERIC SILSESQUIOXANES
Authors: Ivakha Nadiia , Berezhnytska Oleksandra , Trunova Elena , Rohovtsov Oleksandr
Published: July 2020

New hybrid materials were synthesized based on meteacroacetophenate neodymium (III) and erbium (III) and polyhedral oligomeric sissesquioxane POSS formula C24H72Cl8N8O12Si8. A warehouse has been put in place for a new synthesis. In the IR spectra of the synthesized hybrid materials in the range of 400–650 cm–1 there are oscillation bands that correspond to the valence oscillations of the bonds (Ln-O) and (Ln-N) and the deformation oscillations of the chelate ring. The decrease in intensity compared to the spectra of Ln(mphpd)3 complexes is due to the appearance of valence oscillations of the Ln-N bond and steric difficulties that arise when the complex coordinates to the sizable siloxane molecule. An additional intense broad band appears in the IR spectra, which is characterized by fluctuations in the valence of the Si-O-Si siloxane bond with a maximum of 1050 cm-1. The presence of a wide absorption band in the range of 1500–1700 cm-1, characterized by valence oscillations of ν (CO) and ν (CC), confirms the bidentate-cyclic coordination of β-diketonates. Thus, the shape and position of the bands in the IR spectra indicate the formation of a hybrid structure of the composition POSS- [Ln (mphpd)3]4. The shape, position, displacement and splitting of the spectral bands in the electronic spectra and diffuse reflectance spectra indicate the passage of the processes of complexation and the formation of complexes of non-cubic symmetry with coordination number 8. Thus, the presence of insignificant displacements of the absorption bands indicates the invariance of the coordination environment and the geometry of the coordination polyhedron for metal complexes and hydride systems based on them. The shift of the bands of supersensitive transitions in comparison with the spectra of metal complexes indicates both additional coordination of nitrogen atoms of the silsesquioxane molecule and some deformation of the coordination polyhedron, which is due to steric difficulties. According to the set of data from thermal and spectroscopic studies, the structure of the obtained hybrid material can be represented as follows. The results of EDX analysis, the method of dynamic light scattering and microphotographs are consistent and indicate the nanodispersity of the obtained systems.
OXYGEN REDUCTION ON THE SURFACE OF Fe3O4&Au NANOCOMPOSITES
Authors: Pirskyy Yuri , Lavrynenko Alena , Krupennikova Oksana , Manilevich Fedor
Published: July 2020

Functional materials based on ferromagnetics and noble metals are attractive due to their unique optical, catalytic and magnetic properties. Nowadays these materials find their application in various fields of science and technology: medicine, biotechnology, chemistry, physics and energy sector. The aim of the present work is to study the electrochemical characteristics of the oxygen reduction on the surface  of  Fe3O4&Au nanocomposites. The formation of the composite particles took place on the surface of a rotating steel disk which was in contact with HAuCl4 aqueous solution and air. Initial gold concentration was varied from 0.2 to 10.0 mg/l. Oxygen reduction was studied on a floating gas diffusion electrode (pressed carbon black P803 + 30 % PTFE) with surface, modified by prepared Fe3O4&Au nanocomposites, in 1 M KOH solution at 20 ºC. Electrochemical measurements were carried out using  a  PI-50-1.1  potentiostat.

Tafel slopes of the stationary polarization curves ∂E/∂lgj of oxygen reduction on the electrode modified by composites formed at с(Au3+) from 0.2 to 5.0 mg/l lay in the ranges: b1 = 0.048 – 0.060 V, b2 = 0.119 – 0.131 V. When nanocomposites were obtained at с(Au3+) from 7.0 to 10 mg/l these values were: b1 = 0.042 –0.061 V,  b2 = 0.079 – 0.105 V. It was concluded that oxygen reduction mechanism is multistep and includes formation of the hydrogen peroxide as intermediate. Obtained b1 and b2 values indicate that electrode process me-chanism changes when current density grows.

The largest exchange current (8.51∙10–3 A/g) was achieved when electrode was modified by composite formed at с(Au3+) = 1.0 mg/l, whereas when the composite formed at с(Au3+) = 10.0 mg/l was used, the j0 value was smallest. Perhaps, the increase in the initial Au3+ concentration during nanocomposite formation led to an increase in the number of separate gold clusters on the surface of Fe3O4 nanoparticles and to raise of composite catalytic activity. But when с(Au3+) exceeded 1.0 mg/l the core-shell Fe3O4&Au composites with compact gold shell were formed. Such coreshall composites had lower catalytic activity in the oxygen reduction than composites with separate gold clusters on the  surface of  Fe3O4  particles.
THE TEMPERATURE DEPENDENCE OF DYNAMIC VISCOSITY AND TYXOTROPY OF HIGH-VISCOUS OIL IN THE HIGH ALCOHOLS PRESENCE AT DIFFERENT CONCENTRATION
Authors: Konoval Alexander
Published: July 2020

The delivery of high-viscosity petroleum, which demonstrates significant resistance to pressure, from wells to refineries has long been the cause of energy costs during transportation through pipelines. In order to reduce costs, various methods are used: heating, dilution, ultrasonic effect, emulsification in water. We have investigated the effect of fusel oil on the rheological and physical characteristics of high-viscosity petroleum in order to reduce its viscosity, and as a result, reduce the resistance of the system during transportation through the pipeline. It has been established that the addition of 5-10% fusel oil under certain conditions can increase the petroleum dynamic viscosity. This fact should be taken into account when using the fusel oil fraction alcohols in tracer studies. The petroleum has a lower viscosity in the presence of fusel oil at a temperature of 30 ° C and 40 ° C. Moreover, with an increase in shear stress of more than 10 Pa, an almost linear dependence is observed in the decrease in viscosity for both petroleum and petroleum systems with fusel oil in the range from 5% to 20%. At the same time, the nature of the flow of petroleum systems with fusel oil with a change in shear stress and temperature almost completely corresponds to the behavior of petroleum. In general, given the lower viscosity of fusel oil, the behavior of the systems is logical except for the petroleum system with the addition of 5% fusel oil at a temperature of 30 ° C where the dynamic viscosity was higher than the viscosity of the petroleum in the range of shear stresses up to 10 Pa. Moreover, according to the results of the study, it is unlikely that the systems form eutectics since the pour point of the test petroleum has 29.8 ° C, the pour point of the alcohol fraction of fusel oil is lower than -50 ° C, and the petroleum: fusel oil 80:20 system has 28.8 ° C. The resulting systems remain thixotropic and have a non-Newtonian flow character, that is, paraffins and resinous substances do not form true solutions and eutectics with fusel oil.
Reflections on the Enduring Relevance of Religion and Nationalism in the Survival of Modern Nation-States
Authors: Magcamit Michael
Published: July 2020

This paper reflects on the enduring relevance of religion and nationalism in the survival of modern nation-states. I develop a framework that puts these nonrational, nonmaterial cultural sources at the center of the analysis to explain why and how they are relevant to the continued persistence of modern nation-states. The three-track framework introduced here generates conceptual apparatuses that help us understand the processes and dynamics involved, namely: ethnoreligious nationalism, securitized minorities, and sacralized security superstructures. Applying the framework to Southeast Asia, I demonstrate why ethnicized religion and nationalism remain vital to the imagination of contemporary nation-states; and how they are crucial to the construction of structural institutions designed to preserve the conceptual cohesion and material integrity of these units. I conclude that the continuity of modern nation-states has been underwritten by the cultivation of ethnoreligious nationalism, securitization of the ‘threat’ of othered minorities, and sacralization of security superstructures.
Simulation as an Educational Strategy to Increase Medication Error Identification in Licensed Practical Nurses
Authors: Tillman Deryus
Published: July 2020

Objective: To introduce a simulated presentation to both validate and enhance competencies in medication error identification and proper reporting. Methods: In this pre-post project design, participants who consented to participate were asked to take a pre-test to evaluate baseline knowledge regarding medication administration and medication error identification. Following the pre-test participants were asked to take part in a one-hour long instructional simulation activity, where they were able to apply their skills of medication administration and while being exposed to possible medication errors. In addition reporting practices were explored. Afterward, participants were asked to take a post-test, which was identical to the pre-test. Findings: All ten participants were licensed practical nurses (LPNs) with less than five years of experience, who administer medication as part of their daily duties. Nine of the participants (N=9) were female and one male. (N=1). Pre-test scores ranged between 78% and 90 %. The analysis revealed a mean score of 84 with a standard deviation of 4.69 (SD=4.69) as signified in table 2. This indicates that on average participants had a score percentage of 84. Seventy percent of the participants scored at or above 82%. Post-test results following one hour of simulation instruction revealed a percentage score range between 88% and 97%. The analysis revealed a mean score of 92.4%, with a standard deviation of 2.67. This indicates that the average post-test percentage score for the sample is 92.4. Conclusion: These results imply that simulation instruction does have an effect on medication error identification. Specifically, the results suggest that medication error identification accuracy increases when individuals participate in a one-hour simulation instruction experience. Simulation instruction could be used for ongoing training for practicing nurses. More specifically, the use of simulation could prove to be a plausible resource for the orientation of new nurses with little experience. Appropriate training and practice are essential to confidence, safe practice, and better patient outcomes. The simulation creates a safe environment for these novice nurses to groom skills and learn from mistakes.
GAMBARAN FAKTOR INTERNAL DAN EKSTERNAL PELAKSANAAN INISIASI MENYUSU DINI (IMD) DI SALAH SATU PUSKESMAS KABUPATEN BANDUNG PERIODE MARET-APRIL 2019
Authors: Sari Dewi Nurlaela , Ambarwati Tika Vivi
Published: July 2020

ABSTRAKInisiasi Menyusu Dini (IMD) merupakan langkah awal keberhasilan pencapaian ASIEksklusif. Permasalahan yang terjadi di lapangan IMD tidak dimanfaatkan dengan baik.Faktor ibu, bayi dan lingkungan dapat berperan dalam pelaksanaan IMD tersebut. Penelitianini dilakukan untuk mengetahui gambaran faktor internal dan eksternal pelaksanaanIMD di Puskesmas Rancaekek Kabupaten Bandung Tahun 2019. Metode penelitian inimenggunakan metode deskriptif. Populasi dalam penelitian adalah ibu bersalin normal,sampel diambil dengan cara purposive sampling dengan jumlaj 39 responden. Analisisdata menggunakan Analisis univariat dalam bentuk distribusi frekuensi. Hasil penelitiandidapatkan bahwa pengetahuan, pendidikan dan sikap responden merupakan faktor internalyang memengaruhi terlaksanaya IMD. Adapun yang menjadi faktor eksternal pelaksanaanIMD yaitu peran keluarga dan dukungan dari petugas kesehatan. Simpulan dari penelitianini yaitu pengetahuan, pendidikan, sikap, peran keluarga dan dukungan petugas kesehatanmerupakan faktor yang berperan dalam pelaksaanan IMD. IMD diharapkan dapat dijadikanStandar Operasional Prosedur (SOP) dalam asuhan kebidanan.Kata kunci : faktor eksternal, faktor internal, IMDAbstractFirst breast milk (IMD) is the first step to the works of achieving Exclusive ASI. Problems thatoccur in the field of IMD are not utilized properly where it is influenced by several factors bothfrom mother, baby or the environment. For this reason, this research was conducted to determinethe description of internal and external factors in implementing IMD in the RancaekekHealth Center in Bandung Regency in 2019. This research method uses the descriptive method.The population in the study were normal maternity mothers, the sampling technique was purposivesampling. Representation numbered 39 people. Data analysis was performed Univariateanalysis in provided with frequency distributions. An knowledge, education, and attitudeswere internal factors that influenced the implementation of IMD. While the external factorsfor implementing IMD are supporting from anyone, both families or midwives. Conclusions forthe study are knowledge, education, attitudes, family roles and support of health workers arefactors that play a role in the implementation of IMD. It is expected that IMD can be used as aStandard Operating Procedure (SOP) in midwifery care.Keywords: external factors, IMD, internal factors
HUBUNGAN LINGKAR LENGAN ATAS (LILA) IBU HAMIL TRIMESTER III DENGAN BERAT BAYI LAHIR TAHUN 2019
Authors: PASKANA KRISTINA
Published: July 2020

ABSTRAKBadan Kesehatan Dunia (WHO) menyatakan bahwa angka kejadian Berat Badan LahirRendah (BBLR) merupakan indikator masalah kesehatan publik, diantaranya kesehatanibu, malnutrisi, dan buruknya fasilitas kesehatan (Riskesdas, 2018). Upaya memaksimalkankebutuhan nutrisi saat hamil berguna untuk menekan kejadian BBLR (Kemenkes RI, 2019).Tujuan penelitian ini untuk mengetahui hubungan lingkar lengan atas ibu hamil trimesterIII dengan berat bayi lahir di Puskesmas Seginim. Metodologi penelitian menggunakansurvei analitik dengan pendekatan cross sectional. Populasi yaitu seluruh ibu post partumperiode April-Juni 2019 berjumlah 51 orang. Data dianalisis menggunakan chi-square. HasilPenelitian : ibu dengan LILA < 23,5 sebagian besar melahirkan bayi berat lahir < 2.500 grsebesar 11,8%, dan ibu dengan LILA > 23,5 sebagian besar melahirkan bayi dengan berat> 2.500 gr sebesar 74,5%. Uji statistik chi-square menunjukkan 15,3 dan nilai Ï = 0,000 <Î¬ = 0,05. Maknanya: Ada hubungan LILA ibu hamil trimester III dengan berat bayi lahir diPuskesmas Seginim Tahun 2019.Kata kunci : berat bayi lahir, kurang energi kronik, lingkar lengan atasAbstractThe World Health Agency (WHO) states that, the incidence rate of BBLR in population levelis an indicator of public health problems, including maternal health, malnutrition, and poorhealth facilities (Riskesdas, 2018). Maximizing nutritional needs during pregnancy is doneto minimize the incidence of BBLR (Kemenkes RI, 2019). The purpose of the study knows therelationship of upper arm circumference III trimester pregnant women with baby birth inSeginim Public Health Center. The research methodology uses an analytical survey with across sectional approach. The population is entire post-partum mother of April to June 2019,amounting to 51 people. Data analyzed using Chi-square. Research result: Mother with LILA< 23.5 mostly gave birth weight baby birth < 2,500 gr by 11.8%, and mother with LILA > 23.5mostly give birth to a baby with weight > 2,500 gr of 74.5%. The Chi-square statistical testshows 15.3 and the value Ï = 0.000 < Î¬ = 0.05. Meaning: There is a link between the upperarm circumference of the III trimester of pregnant women with the weight of babies born inSeginim Public Health Center in 2019 years.Keyword: baby birth weight, less chronic energy, upper arm circumference
Am I an Entrepreneur? Entrepreneurial Self-Identity as an Antecedent of Entrepreneurial Intention
Authors: Ceresia Francesco , Mendola Claudio
Published: July 2020

Although many studies have shown that entrepreneurial intention can be explained according to a theory of planned behavior, some scholars have provided interesting insights into the role of job self-identity perception—in particularly the ones related to entrepreneurship—as significant precursor of entrepreneurial intention. A questionnaire has been administered to graduates and students of an Italian university (N = 153). A hierarchical regression analysis controlling for demographic variables has been performed in order to test the research hypotheses. The findings of this study have been discussed, with particular attention paid to the unexpected, weak, or non-significant effects of perceived behavioral control and social norms on entrepreneurial intention.
Phloroglucinol Improves Direct Rooting of In Vitro Cultured Apple Rootstocks M9 and M26
Authors: Kim Jin-Ho , Kwon Bo-Min , Ho Thanh-Tam , Park So-Young
Published: July 2020

Advances in micropropagation techniques have helped produce true-to-type clones of many horticulturally important plants. However, several cultivars of apple are difficult to root in vitro. In these cases, adventitious roots are induced together with undesirable formation of callus, which decrease the acclimatization rate of in vitro produced plantlets. In this study, two apple rootstocks, M9 and M26, were subjected to different concentrations of indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) to induce root formation. Although addition of IBA to the medium induced root formation, rhizogenesis was accompanied by the undesirable formation of callus in both cultivars. On the other hand, in gene expression analysis, the indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) synthase genes AAO1 and YUC1 were expressed more highly in M9 than in M26. This suggests that endogenous auxin levels may be higher in M9, which may explain why M9 plantlets are difficult to root and experience high levels of callus formation during propagation. In addition, rooting medium containing 0.1 mg·L−1 IBA was supplemented with different concentrations of phloroglucinol (0, 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 mM) to examine whether direct rooting efficiency in the M9 could be improved. Addition of 1.0 mM phloroglucinol increased rooting percentage and decreased callus formation in the M9 rootstock. The rootstock M9 is a desirable cultivar but presents a problem with true-to-type direct rooting. Addition of phloroglucinol may improve direct rooting and eliminate callus formation during propagation.
Pullet Rearing Affects Collisions and Perch Use in Enriched Colony Cage Layer Housing
Authors: Pullin Allison N. , Temple S. Mieko , Bennett Darin C. , Rufener Christina B. , Blatchford Richard A. , Makagon Maja M.
Published: July 2020

Hens reared in aviaries (AVI) as pullets have improved spatial abilities compared to hens reared in non-enriched cages (CON). However, this effect on behavior has been shown only to 23 weeks of age. Lohmann LSL-Lite hens were reared in either CON or AVI until 19 weeks of age and then moved into enriched colony cages (ECC) containing two elevated perches of different heights (n = 6 ECC/treatment). Focal hens (3 per ECC) were fitted with tri-axial accelerometers to record acceleration events at 21, 35, and 49 weeks of age. Video recordings from each age were used to identify behaviors associated with acceleration events as well as the proportion of hens utilizing perches. CON hens experienced more acceleration events (p = 0.008) and more collisions (p = 0.04) than AVI hens during the day at 21 and 35 weeks of age. The total proportion of hens perching at night was similar between treatments across most time points, but fewer CON hens used the high perch compared to AVI hens throughout the study (p = < 0.001). Rearing in aviaries influences hen behavior out to peak lay for collisions and out to mid-lay for perch height preference in ECC.
Analysis of the Factors Influencing Body Weight Variation in Hanwoo Steers Using an Automated Weighing System
Authors: Cho Hyunjin , Jeon Seoyoung , Lee Mingyung , Kang Kyewon , Kang Hamin , Park Eunkyu , Kim Minkook , Hong Seokman , Seo Seongwon
Published: July 2020

This study aimed to determine the factors affecting the body weight (BW) of Hanwoo steers by collecting a large number of BW measurements using an automated weighing system (AWS). The BW of 12 Hanwoo steers was measured automatically using an AWS for seven days each month over three months. On the fourth day of the BW measurement each month, an additional BW measurement was conducted manually. After removing the outliers of BW records, the deviations between the AWS records (a) and manual weighing records (b) were analyzed. BW measurement deviations (a − b) were significantly (p < 0.05) affected by month, day and the time within a day as well as the individual animal factor; however, unexplained random variations had the greatest impact (70.4%). Excluding unexplained random variations, the difference between individual steers was the most influential (80.1%). During the day, the BW of Hanwoo steers increased before feed offerings and significantly decreased immediately after (p < 0.05), despite the constant availability of feeds in the feed bunk. These results suggest that there is a need to develop pattern recognition algorithms that consider variations in individual animals and their feeding patterns for the analysis of BW changes in animals.
Impact of Stress on Health and Final Weight in Fattening Lambs
Authors: Navarro Teresa , González José María , Ramos Juan José , Marca María Carmen , Figliola Lucia , de Arcaute Marta Ruiz , Borobia Marta , Ortín Aurora
Published: July 2020

In order to determine whether the stress level had any influence on the health and final weight of Rasa Aragonesa fattening lambs, stress markers were measured throughout the fattening period in 80 feedlot lambs (group F) and in 40 lambs finished on the farm of birth (group C). The highest values of the stress indicators—neutrophil-to-lymphocyte-ratio (N/L), non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), serum cortisol and fecal cortisol metabolites (FCM)—were recorded after the road transportation of group F to the feedlot. No differences between the groups were identified at the end of the adaptation period, but at the end of the fattening, statistically significant higher values for NEFA and serum cortisol were determined in group F. However, statistically significant differences between the groups were not found in the percentage of lambs with clinical signs of illness and ovine respiratory complex (ORC) lesions or in the final weight of the lambs. Independent of the location at which the lambs were fattened, those with FCM values at the beginning of the study (at the time of weaning) in the highest quartile developed a higher percentage of clinical signs of illness (45.5% vs. 32.1%, p > 0.05) and ORC lesions (45.5% vs. 10.7%, p < 0.01), and their average final weight was lower (24.36 kg vs. 27.40 kg, p = 0.001) than those with values in the lowest quartile. Stress experienced by lambs prior to finishing seems to be relevant for their further development, and FCM concentration at the time of weaning could be used as an indicator of health and productive performance of the lambs during the fattening period, regardless of finishing location.
Effect of Intermittent and Mild Cold Stimulation on the Immune Function of Bursa in Broilers
Authors: Liu Yanhong , Xue Ge , Li Shuang , Fu Yajie , Yin Jingwen , Zhang Runxiang , Li Jianhong
Published: July 2020

Cold stress causes growth performance to decrease and increases production costs. Cold adaptation can enhance immune function and alleviate the negative impact caused by the stress condition. The study investigated the effect of intermittent and mild cold stimulation on the immune function of the bursa of Fabricius in broilers. A total of 400 healthy one-day-old broilers were divided into the control group (CC) and cold stimulation (CS) groups. The CC group was raised at a conventional raising temperature of broilers, while the CS groups were raised at 3°C below the temperature of the CC for three-, four-, five-, or six-hour periods at one-day intervals from 15 to 35 days of age (D35), denoted CS3, CS4, CS5, and CS6, respectively. Subsequently, they were raised at 20°C from 36 to 49 days of age (D49). The expression levels of TLRs, cytokines, and AvBDs were determined to access the immune function of bursa in broilers. After 21-day IMCS (at D36), the expression levels of TLR1, TLR15 and TLR21, interleukin (IL)-8, and interferon (IFN)-γ, as well as AvBD8 in CS groups, were lower than those in CC (p < 0.05). The expression levels of TLR3, TLR4 and TLR7, were decreased in the CS3, CS5, and CS6 groups (p < 0.05), but there were no significant differences in both the CC and CS4 groups (p > 0.05). When the IMCS ended for 14 days (at D49), the expression levels of TLR2, TLR3, TLR5, TLR7, TLR15, and TLR21, and IL-8, as well as AvBD2, AvBD4 and AvBD7 in CS groups, were lower than those in CC (p < 0.05). In addition to CS4, the expression levels of TLR1, IFN-γ, and AvBD8 in CS3, CS5, and CS6 were still lower than those in CC (p < 0.05). We concluded that the intermittent and mild cold stimulation could regulate immunoreaction by modulating the production of TLRs, cytokines, and AvBDs in the bursa, which could help broilers adapt to low ambient temperature and maintain homeostasis.
Antimicrobial Activity of Extracts of Two Native Fruits of Chile: Arrayan (Luma apiculata) and Peumo (Cryptocarya alba)
Authors: Viktorová Jitka , Kumar Rohitesh , Řehořová Kateřina , Hoang Lan , Ruml Tomas , Figueroa Carlos R. , Valdenegro Monika , Fuentes Lida
Published: July 2020

Arrayan and peumo fruits are commonly used in the traditional medicine of Chile. In this study, the concentration of the extracts halving the bacterial viability and biofilms formation and disruption of the drug-sensitive and drug-resistant strains of Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa was determined. The chemical composition of extracts was analyzed by high-resolution liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (U-HPLC/MS). The arrayan extract (Inhibitory concentration IC50 0.35 ± 0.01 mg/mL) was more effective than peumo extract (IC50 0.53 ± 0.02 mg/mL) in the inhibition of S. aureus planktonic cells. Similarly, the arrayan extract was more effective in inhibiting the adhesion (S. aureus IC50 0.23 ± 0.02 mg/mL, P. aeruginosa IC50 0.29 ± 0.02 mg/mL) than peumo extracts (S. aureus IC50 0.47 ± 0.03 mg/mL, P. aeruginosa IC50 0.35 ± 0.01 mg/mL). Both extracts inhibited quorum sensing in a concentration-dependent manner, and the most significant was the autoinducer-2 type communication inhibition by arrayan extract. Both extracts also disrupted preformed biofilm of P. aeruginosa (arrayan IC50 0.56 ± 0.04 mg/mL, peumo IC50 0.59 ± 0.04 mg/mL). However, neither arrayan nor peumo extracts disrupted S. aureus mature biofilm. U-HPLC/MS showed that both fruit extracts mainly possessed quercetin compounds; the peumo fruit extract also contained phenolic acids and phenylpropanoids. Our results suggested that both extracts could be used as natural antimicrobials for some skin and nosocomial infections.
Theoretical and Experimental Study on Contact Characteristics of Spiral Bevel Gears under Quasi-Static and Large Loading Conditions
Authors: Fu Yimeng , Zhuo Yaobing , Zhou Xiaojun , Wan Bowen , Lv Haoliang , Wang Zhe
Published: July 2020

The precise mathematical model for the tooth surface and transition surface of spiral bevel gears is derived. Taking a pair of spiral bevel gears of a heavy vehicle as an example of calculation and analysis, a finite element model of spiral bevel gears transmission system is established. Through the finite element tooth contact analysis under quasi-static loading and high loading condition, the influences of torque on the root stress distribution, contact stress, and transmission error are discussed, and the results are compared with the empirical formula results. Finally, a contact performance test bench of spiral bevel gear pair is developed, then the root bending stress, contact pattern, and transmission error tests are carried out. These experiment results are compared with analyzed ones, which showed a good agreement.
Ultraviolet Photodetection Application in Magnesium Indium Oxide Thin Film Transistors via Co-Sputtering Deposition
Authors: Yang Chih-Chiang , Chen Kuan-Yu , Yeh Wei-Sheng , Su Yan-Kuin , Wang Zi-Hao
Published: July 2020

A magnesium-doped indium oxide (In2O3:Mg) ultraviolet (UV) thin film phototransistor was fabricated via cosputtering of MgO and In2O3. Three samples with different sputtering power values of In2O3 ranging from 40 to 60 W, namely, sample A with 40 W, sample B with 50 W, and sample C with 60 W, were used in this study. Results confirmed that oxygen vacancy concentration evidently indicates indium content. The experimental results showed that responsivities of samples, defined as the ratio of photocurrent under illumination per input power, increase from 0.0086 to 2.6 A/W. Rejection ratios were 1.2 × 104, 4.3 × 105, and 4.8 × 105 for samples A, B, and C, respectively. Based on our results, sample C is the best among the three MgInO UV phototransistors investigated in this study.
Experimental Characterization of Prefabricated Bridge Deck Panels Prepared with Prestressed and Sustainable Ultra-High Performance Concrete
Authors: Zafar Muhammad Naveed , Saleem Muhammad Azhar , Xia Jun , Saleem Muhammad Mazhar
Published: July 2020

Enhanced quality and reduced on-site construction time are the basic features of prefabricated bridge elements and systems. Prefabricated lightweight bridge decks have already started finding their place in accelerated bridge construction (ABC). Therefore, the development of deck panels using high strength and high performance concrete has become an active area of research. Further optimization in such deck systems is possible using prestressing or replacement of raw materials with sustainable and recyclable materials. This research involves experimental evaluation of six full-depth precast prestressed high strength fiber-reinforced concrete (HSFRC) and six partial-depth sustainable ultra-high performance concrete (sUHPC) composite bridge deck panels. The composite panels comprise UHPC prepared with ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) with the replacement of 30% cement content overlaid by recycled aggregate concrete made with replacement of 30% of coarse aggregates with recycled aggregates. The experimental variables for six HSFRC panels were depth, level of prestressing, and shear reinforcement. The six sUHPC panels were prepared with different shear and flexural reinforcements and sUHPC-normal/recycled aggregate concrete interface. Experimental results exhibit the promise of both systems to serve as an alternative to conventional bridge deck systems.
Machine Learning Applied to Diagnosis of Human Diseases: A Systematic Review
Authors: Caballé-Cervigón Nuria , Castillo-Sequera José L. , Gómez-Pulido Juan A. , Gómez-Pulido José M. , Polo-Luque María L.
Published: July 2020

Human healthcare is one of the most important topics for society. It tries to find the correct effective and robust disease detection as soon as possible to patients receipt the appropriate cares. Because this detection is often a difficult task, it becomes necessary medicine field searches support from other fields such as statistics and computer science. These disciplines are facing the challenge of exploring new techniques, going beyond the traditional ones. The large number of techniques that are emerging makes it necessary to provide a comprehensive overview that avoids very particular aspects. To this end, we propose a systematic review dealing with the Machine Learning applied to the diagnosis of human diseases. This review focuses on modern techniques related to the development of Machine Learning applied to diagnosis of human diseases in the medical field, in order to discover interesting patterns, making non-trivial predictions and useful in decision-making. In this way, this work can help researchers to discover and, if necessary, determine the applicability of the machine learning techniques in their particular specialties. We provide some examples of the algorithms used in medicine, analysing some trends that are focused on the goal searched, the algorithm used, and the area of applications. We detail the advantages and disadvantages of each technique to help choose the most appropriate in each real-life situation, as several authors have reported. The authors searched Scopus, Journal Citation Reports (JCR), Google Scholar, and MedLine databases from the last decades (from 1980s approximately) up to the present, with English language restrictions, for studies according to the objectives mentioned above. Based on a protocol for data extraction defined and evaluated by all authors using PRISMA methodology, 141 papers were included in this advanced review.
On Cognitive Assistant Robots for Reducing Variability in Industrial Human-Robot Activities
Authors: Chacón Alejandro , Ponsa Pere , Angulo Cecilio
Published: July 2020

In the industrial domain, one important research activity for cognitive robotics is the development of assistant robots. In this work, we show how the use of a cognitive assistant robot can contribute to (i) improving task effectiveness and productivity, (ii) providing autonomy for the human supervisor to make decisions, providing or improving human operators’ skills, and (iii) giving feedback to the human operator in the loop. Our approach is evaluated on variability reduction in a manual assembly system. The overall study and analysis are performed on a model of the assembly system obtained using the Functional Resonance Analysis Method (FRAM) and tested in a robotic simulated scenario. Results show that a cognitive assistant robot is a useful partner in the role of improving the task effectiveness of human operators and supervisors.
Vertical Measurement of Equivalent Black Carbon Concentration at Low Altitude
Authors: Lee Jeonghoon , Park Jiseung , Kim Juhyung
Published: July 2020

The vertical profile of equivalent black carbon (eBC) concentrations has been measured together with the temperature up to 130 m above ground level at several locations. A hexacopter was deployed for the measurement of eBC, and the temperature on typical days in winter, spring, summer and early autumn. We observed high eBC concentrations between 10 m and 90 m above ground level, which was related to the vertical distribution of temperature. We examined that the measurement noise could be reduced by using a box-average scheme. Furthermore, the negative values at low eBC concentration could be removed for an averaging time of 30 min or longer.
SEIRD COVID-19 Formal Characterization and Model Comparison Validation
Authors: Fonseca i Casas Pau , García i Carrasco Víctor , Garcia i Subirana Joan
Published: July 2020

Based on a SEIRD model (Susceptible, Exposed, Infective, Recovered and Deceased) for COVID-19 infection with a new parametrization using a high infection rate, and a low fatality, we define the model in System Dynamics, Python, and Specification and Description Language (SDL). The different implementations obtained can be improved depending on the capabilities of the approach and, more interestingly, can be used to improve the Validation and Verification processes. In this paper, we are focused on describing how this comparison with other models’ validation processes allows us to find the parameters of the system dynamics model, hence the parameters of the pandemic. This is a crucial element, specifically in this case, because the data are not complete or validated for different reasons. We use using existing data from Korea and Spain and showing that the proposed method and the obtained parametrization for the model fit with the empirical evidence. We discuss some implications of the validation process and the model parametrization. We use this approach to implement a Decision support system that shows the current pandemic situation in Catalonia.
Reconstructing Summer Precipitation with MXD Data from Pinus sylvestris Growing in the Stockholm Archipelago
Authors: Rocha Eva , Gunnarson Björn E. , Holzkämper Steffen
Published: July 2020

Maximum latewood density (MXD) chronologies have been widely used to reconstruct summer temperature variations. Precipitation signals inferred from MXD data are, however, rather scarce. In this study, we assess the potential of using MXD data derived from Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) growing in the Stockholm archipelago (Sweden) to reconstruct past precipitation variability. In this area, slow-growing pine trees emerge on flat plateaus of bedrock outcrops with thin or absent soil layers and are, therefore, sensitive to moisture variability. A 268-year-long MXD chronology was produced, and climate–growth relationships show a significant and robust correlation with May–July precipitation (PMJJr = 0.64, p < 0.01). The MXD based May–July precipitation reconstruction covers the period 1750–2018 CE and explains 41% of the variance (r2) of the observed precipitation (1985–2018). The reconstruction suggests that the region has experienced more pluvial phases than drought conditions since the 1750s. The latter half of the 18th century was the wettest and the first half of the 19th century the driest. Climate analysis of “light rings” (LR), latewood layers of extreme low-density cells, finds their occurrence often coincides with significantly dry (<41 mm precipitation) and warmer (1–2 °C above average temperature), May–July conditions. Our analysis suggests that these extremes may be triggered by the summer North Atlantic Oscillation (SNAO).
Limits of Predictability of a Global Self-Similar Routing Model in a Local Self-Similar Environment
Authors: Velasquez Nicolas , Mantilla Ricardo
Published: July 2020

Regional Distributed Hydrological models are being adopted around the world for prediction of streamflow fluctuations and floods. However, the details of the hydraulic geometry of the channels in the river network (cross sectional geometry, slope, drag coefficients, etc.) are not always known, which imposes the need for simplifications based on scaling laws and their prescription. We use a distributed hydrological model forced with radar-derived rainfall fields to test the effect of spatial variations in the scaling parameters of Hydraulic Geometric (HG) relationships used to simplify routing equations. For our experimental setup, we create a virtual watershed that obeys local self-similarity laws for HG and attempt to predict the resulting hydrographs using a global self-similar HG parameterization. We find that the errors in the peak flow value and timing are consistent with the errors that are observed when trying to replicate actual observation of streamflow. Our results provide evidence that local self-similarity can be a more appropriate simplification of HG scaling laws than global self-similarity.
Baru Pulp (Dipteryx alata Vogel): Fruit from the Brazilian Savanna Protects against Oxidative Stress and Increases the Life Expectancy of Caenorhabditis elegans via SOD-3 and DAF-16
Authors: Leite Natasha Rios , Araújo Laura Costa Alves de , Rocha Paola dos Santos da , Agarrayua Danielle Araujo , Ávila Daiana Silva , Carollo Carlos Alexandre , Silva Denise Brentan , Estevinho Leticia Miranda , de Picoli Souza Kely , dos Santos Edson Lucas
Published: July 2020

Fruits are sources of bioactive compounds that are responsible for several biological activities. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the chemical composition of the pulp of the Brazilian Savanna fruit Dipteryx alata; evaluate its toxic effects, influence on the life expectancy of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, and its antioxidant activities in vitro and in vivo; and describe the mechanisms involved. The chemical compounds identified include phenols, terpenes, fatty acid derivatives, vitamins, and a carboxylic acid. The in vitro antioxidant activity was demonstrated by radical scavenging methods. in vivo, the D. alata fruit pulp was not toxic and promoted resistance to oxidative stress in nematodes exposed to a chemical oxidizing agent. Furthermore, it promoted an increased life expectancy in wild-type nematodes and increased the expression of superoxide dismutase and the nuclear translocation of DAF-16. These results suggest that the beneficial effects identified are related to these two genes, which are involved in the regulation of metabolic activities, the control of oxidative stress, and the lifespan of C. elegans. These beneficial effects, which may be related to its chemical constituents, demonstrate its potential use as a functional and/or nutraceutical food.
On the Detection and Functional Significance of the Protein–Protein Interactions of Mitochondrial Transport Proteins
Authors: Zhang Youjun , Fernie Alisdair
Published: July 2020

Protein–protein assemblies are highly prevalent in all living cells. Considerable evidence has recently accumulated suggesting that particularly transient association/dissociation of proteins represent an important means of regulation of metabolism. This is true not only in the cytosol and organelle matrices, but also at membrane surfaces where, for example, receptor complexes, as well as those of key metabolic pathways, are common. Transporters also frequently come up in lists of interacting proteins, for example, binding proteins that catalyze the production of their substrates or that act as relays within signal transduction cascades. In this review, we provide an update of technologies that are used in the study of such interactions with mitochondrial transport proteins, highlighting the difficulties that arise in their use for membrane proteins and discussing our current understanding of the biological function of such interactions.
What Do We Know about Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation for Major Depression?
Authors: Buchanan Derrick Matthew , Robaey Philippe , D’Angiulli Amedeo
Published: July 2020

The interest in using non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) for the treatment of major depression (MD), including treatment resistant depression, is growing rapidly. The paper by Bennabi and Haffen (Brain Sci. 2018, 8) was an important step towards the formal acceptance of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) as a possible form of therapy. Their review demonstrated favourable support for the beneficial effects of tDCS for MD, coupled with necessary practical considerations, such as its relatively low cost, portability/ease of use in clinical settings, non-invasiveness, and good tolerability. Here, we provide a follow-up to their review and sketch a current update. Means for optimizing tDCS efficacy and potential limitations of current studies are discussed.
Evaluation of Risk Factors for Epilepsy in Pediatric Patients with Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Sadowska Małgorzata , Sarecka-Hujar Beata , Kopyta Ilona
Published: July 2020

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a set of etiologically diverse symptoms that change with the child’s age. It is one of the most frequent causes of motor disability in children. CP occurs at a frequency of 1.5 to 3.0 per 1000 live-born children. CP often coexists with epilepsy, which is drug-resistant in a high number of cases. The aim of the present study was to analyze the associations between preconception, prenatal, perinatal, neonatal, and infancy risk factors for epilepsy in a group of pediatric patients with CP. We retrospectively analyzed 181 children with CP (aged 4–17 years at diagnosis), hospitalized at the Department of Pediatrics and Developmental Age Neurology in Katowice in the years 2008–2016. Division into particular types of CP was based on Ingram’s classification. Data were analyzed using STATISTICA 13.0 (STATSOFT; Statistica, Tulsa, OK, USA). Epilepsy was diagnosed in 102 children (56.35%), of whom 44 (43%) had drug-resistant epilepsy; only in 15 cases (14.71%) was epilepsy susceptible to treatment. The incidence of epilepsy varied between the types of CP. It occurred significantly more often in children with tetraplegia (75%), ataxic form (83%), and mixed form (80%) in comparison to diplegia (32%) and hemiplegia (38%). Maternal hypertension was found to be a risk factor for epilepsy in CP patients (OR = 12.46, p < 0.001) as well as for drug-resistant epilepsy (the odds ratio (OR) = 9.86, p = 0.040). Delivery by cesarean section increased the risk of epilepsy in the CP patients over two-fold (OR = 2.17, p = 0.012). We observed also that neonatal convulsions significantly increased the risk for epilepsy (OR = 3.04, p = 0.011) as well as drug-resistant epilepsy (OR = 4.02, p = 0.002). In conclusion, maternal hypertension, neonatal convulsions, and delivery by cesarean section were the most important factors increasing the risk of epilepsy as well as drug-resistant epilepsy in the analyzed group of patients with CP.
Hemodynamic Activity and Connectivity of the Prefrontal Cortex by Using Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy during Color-Word Interference Test in Korean and English Language
Authors: Lee Gihyoun , Park Ji-Su , Ortiz Mezie Laurence B. , Hong Jun-Yong , Paik Seung-Ho , Lee Seung Hyun , Kim Beop Min , Jung Young-Jin
Published: July 2020

In daily living, people are challenged to focus on their goal while eliminating interferences. Specifically, this study investigated the pre-frontal cortex (PFC) activity while attention control was tested using the self-made color-word interference test (CWIT) with a functional near-infrared spectroscopy device (fNIRS). Among 11 healthy Korean university students, overall the highest scores were obtained in the congruent Korean condition 1 (CKC-1) and had the least vascular response (VR) as opposed to the incongruent Korean condition 2 (IKC-2). The individual’s automatic reading response caused less brain activation while IKC-2 involves color suppression. Across the three trials per each condition, no significant differences (SD) in scores and in VR since there was no intervention did. Meanwhile, SD was observed between CKC-1 and English Congruent Condition 3 (ECC-3) across trials. However, SD was only observed on the third trial of VR. In the connectivity analysis, right and left PFC are activated on ECC-3. In CKC-1 and IKC-2, encompassing dorsomedial and dorsolateral although CKC-1 has less connection and connectivity due to less brain activation as compared. Therefore, aside from VR, brain connectivity could be identified non-invasively using fNIRS without ionizing radiation and at low-cost.
Opioid Crisis—An Emphasis on Fentanyl Analogs
Authors: Lutfy Kabirullah
Published: July 2020

Opioids are the mainstay for the management of moderate to severe pain. However, their acute use is associated with several side effects, ranging from nausea, itching, sedation, hypotension to respiratory depression, and death. Also, chronic use of these drugs can lead to the development of tolerance, dependence, and eventually addiction. The most serious side effect, lethality due to opioid-induced overdose, has reached the level of national emergency, i.e., the opioid crisis, which is now the forefront of medicine. In a detailed review (Novel Synthetic Opioids: The Pathologist’s Point of View), Frisoni and colleagues have discussed the side effects of novel licit and illicit fentanyl derivatives, as well as the related compounds which are more potent and faster acting than morphine and other conventional opioids (Frisoni, et al., 2018). These drugs affect the central nervous system (CNS) and can promote the development of addiction due to the quick rush they induce because of their faster entry into the brain. These drugs also arrest the cardiovascular and pulmonary systems, increasing the chance of respiratory arrest, leading to opioid-induced overdose morbidity and mortality. The respiratory arrest induced by opioids can be potentiated by other CNS depressants, such as alcohol or benzodiazepines, and therefore may occur more frequently in polydrug users. Therefore, the use of these newer fentanyl derivatives as well as other fast acting opioids should be avoided or limited to specific cases and must be kept out of the reach of children and adolescents who are more vulnerable to become addicted or overdose themselves.