bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proceso comunicacional de manejo de residuos sólidos en negocios de alimentos y servicios. Caso de estudio restaurante de la Escuela de Gastronomía
Authors: Gavilanez Alvarez Iraida Maritza , Zurita Polo Susana Monserrat
Published: May 2020

Los procesos que se desarrollan en el ámbito gastronómico en el Restaurante de la Carrera de Gastronomía de la ESPOCH son llevados de manera eficiente, por ello es pertinente dar a conocer a la comunidad politécnica y socializar a la ciudadanía en general mediante distintos procesos comunicacionales como se realiza el manejo de residuos sólidos lo cual permitirá mejorar el servicio brindado por estudiantes y docentes en el entorno en el mencionado restaurante. Es importante difundir cómo se realizan las prácticas en cuanto al manejo de residuos sólidos, identificando la necesidad de implementar planes ambientales adecuados que faciliten y mejoren los servicios en el restaurante, de esta manera se podrán reducir en gran medida los impactos tanto ambientales, como visuales que se pudieran generar por la acumulación de basura. Para la realización de la presente investigación se realizó primeramente un diagnóstico y luego un levantamiento de la línea base sobre el manejo de residuos sólidos tanto orgánicos como inorgánicos resultantes del proceso generado en la cocina, además se identificaron los procesos que se desarrollan en cuanto a reciclaje dentro de la carrera, a través de algunas técnicas de investigación como son la observación, aplicación de encuestas y entrevistas tanto al personal responsable como a usuarios del restaurante de la Escuela de Gastronomía de la ESPOCH. Adicionalmente se utilizó una ficha ambiental para identificar la caracterización de áreas de influencia tanto en el ámbito físico, biótico, socio-cultural, educativo entre otros, también se han consultado las Normas Ambientales TULAS LIBRO VI Anexo 6 para el Manejo de Desechos Sólidos no Peligrosos, y se ha determinado la Producción Per Cápita de residuos que el restaurante genera, siendo de  0.20 Kg/Hab/día. o 0.45lb/Hab/día y un total de residuos generados por semana de 113.91Kg. o 250.61lb correspondiente a una semana común de trabajo en el restaurante.
La Gastronomía como factor insustituible en la Promoción Turística de un destino
Authors: Ordoñez Bravo Elsa Flor , Fierro Ricaurte Andrea Estefanía , Rivadeneira Yánez Felipe , Fernández Sánchez Lineth del Rocío
Published: May 2020

El fundamento de este artículo se centra en la gastronomía, considerada en la actualidad como un componente subvalorado y muy poco apreciado en la promoción turística de un destino. La idea es establecer, en un contexto general orientado a la homogenización de los gustos, los conceptos, contenidos, formas y enfoques culturales con los que se presenta a la gastronomía tradicional no son suficientes elementos para captar la atención de los turistas. Se propone la disyuntiva de; aunque en la actualidad los turistas se están acostumbrado cada vez más a la comida rápida global y les gusta, podrían también integrarse a redefinir la gastronomía local, considerando su esencia típica y reconocer el esfuerzo para intentar un encuentro más cercano y profundo con las costumbres culinarias del lugar que visitan. Se discute si, en la visita a las culturas anfitrionas, las prácticas culinarias podrían ser consideradas como un factor importante en la elección del destino a visitar. El documento se centra en la gastronomía, como un elemento fundamental del producto cultural que da atractivo al visitante en un país, región o área, ofreciéndole una alternativa de experiencia turística de calidad profunda. Se propone una discusión en los temas de gastronomía y turismo y un análisis sobre la forma de abordar la satisfacción a las necesidades del turista. Con respecto a la relativa falta de atención al producto turístico gastronómico por parte de los turistas, se plantea la cuestión de sí, como resultado de esta omisión, el patrimonio cultural en esta área temática se está empobreciendo en la actualidad, lo que reduce las posibilidades de perpetuación de la diversidad y la continua evolución de la gastronomía local.
Recuperación de minerales aurífero mediante flotación, provenientes del sector la Pangui, distrito minero Chinapintza – Ecuador
Authors: Gregory Guillermo Cuesta Andrade , David Isaac Cuenca Gualán , Jenny Priscila Granja Carrera , Chicaiza Ortiz Ángel Fabian
Published: May 2020

Este trabajo de investigación se divide en tres fases, las mismas que sirven para determinar distintos balances metalúrgicos. La primera fase abarca ensayos de molienda para obtener los tamaños de grano deseados (84µm, 74µm y 67µm), posteriormente se realizan ensayos de flotación con estos tamaños, encontrando como mejor tamaño de grano al de 84µm por el rendimiento de esta recuperación, 76.54%. La segunda fase consta de la variación del pH del medio en el que se desarrolla la flotación (8, 9 y 10), encontrando el mejor resultado en el pH 10 con un rendimiento de 88.19%. La tercera fase se realiza con variaciones en la concentración del colector (75g/ton, 50g/ton y 100g/ton), dando como resultado la mejor recuperación a la flotación con la concentración del colector de 100g/ton debido a su rendimiento, 76.54%.
Evaluación de la capacidad de absorción de energía de impacto y dureza en probetas impresas en 3D de PLA y ABS con estructura cúbica y tri hexagonal
Authors: Escobar Guachambala Miguel Ángel , Gavilanes Carrión Javier José Gavilanes Carrión , Freire Quintanilla Mesías Heriberto
Published: May 2020

En la actualidad se construyen ortesis personalizadas para rehabilitación física mediante prototipado rápido 3D, debido a esto es de importancia conocer su resistencia mecánica, por esto se plantea ensayar probetas impresas en 3D  con filamentos de PLA y ABS. Las probetas de estudio se diseñaron mediante software CAD, en función de la norma ASTM D256; después se imprimieron en 3D con estructura de relleno cúbica y tri hexagonal en  materiales de PLA y ABS. Para el análisis de resistencia de las probetas se desarrolló varios ensayos: el ensayo de impacto con  péndulo tipo Izod, microscopia de la superficie de rotura y el análisis de dureza SHORE D. En función de los resultados obtenidos se determinó que la probeta impresa en  3D con ABS ofrece mayor absorción de energía de impacto con respecto a la probeta de PLA; la estructura de relleno de la probeta que da mayor resistencia mecánica  es la estructura cubica comparado con la estructura tri hexagonal. Además se determina que la dureza de la probeta de PLA es mayor que la probeta de ABS, finalmente se observó que la fractura de la probeta de PLA es lineal, mientras que la fractura de la probeta de ABS es tiene una forma de zigzag.
Modelo de aprendizaje cooperativo del idioma inglés utilizando tecnologías de la información y comunicación
Authors: Inca Chunata Nanci Margarita , Reinoso Espinosa Ana Gabriela , Macias Silva Evelyn Carolina , Merino Hernández Sandra Elizabeth
Published: May 2020

El objetivo de este artículo es revelar el impacto de una estrategia combinada de aprendizaje cooperativo y las tecnologías de la información y comunicación para mejorar el aprendizaje del idioma inglés. La población de estudio la conformaron 100 estudiantes: 50 del grupo de intervención y 50 de control, pertenecientes a la carrera de ingeniería Química de la Escuela Superior Politécnica de Chimborazo. Por medio de un análisis cuasi experimental y grupo control, se conoció el desarrollo de las cuatro destrezas de la lengua: escuchar, leer, hablar y escribir y las dos áreas lingüísticas: gramática y vocabulario. Los resultados analizados estadísticamente evidencian que los estudiantes mejoraron sus habilidades en el dominio del idioma inglés.
Géneros Literarios en la Destreza Lectora del Idioma Inglés
Authors: Evelyn Vanessa  , Vera de la Torre Ana Jazmina , Chimbo Cáceres Elsa Mayorie , Suárez Mosquera Wilma Elizabeth
Published: May 2020

Este artículo aborda las ventajas del uso adecuado de los géneros literarios en la habilidad de lectura del idioma inglés. Debido al hecho de que los ecuatorianos no son lectores frecuentes, es necesario crear el hábito del lector en el Sistema Educativo de este país sudamericano. La mejor manera de introducir un hábito de lectura en los planes de estudio es incluir actividades que involucren el uso de géneros literarios en el aprendizaje del inglés. En vista del propósito mencionado, se aplicó una metodología cualitativa-cuantitativa a través de una encuesta estructurada realizada a los estudiantes y al maestro del sexto y séptimo año de una escuela de educación primaria. Los resultados obtenidos se analizaron mediante la prueba estadística Chi-cuadrado, la misma que señala que el uso adecuado de los géneros literarios en actividades relacionadas con el desarrollo de la habilidad lectora del idioma inglés ha logrado grandes ventajas.
La educación financiera y su incidencia en la capacidad de gestión de los comerciantes de la empresa pública municipal Mercado de Productores Agrícolas San Pedro de Riobamba (EP-EMMPA)
Authors: Cevallos Vique Victor Oswaldo , Valverde Aguirre Paulina Elizabeth , Orna Hidalgo Luis Alcides , Cargua Pilco Edmundo
Published: May 2020

La presente investigación tuvo como objetivo determinar los niveles de educación financiera de los comerciantes de la empresa pública Mercado de Productores Agrícolas San Pedro de Riobamba EP-EMMPA, y su incidencia en la capacidad de gestión; de un universo de 946 comerciantes arrendatarios permanentes, se obtuvo una muestra representativa de 195 a quienes se aplicó una encuesta mediante el método aleatorio   sobre aspectos relacionados con: nivel de formación y conocimientos financieros; comportamiento y actitudes  en relación a la  inversión, el financiamiento, el  ahorro y manejo de herramientas financieras básicas. Los hallazgos relevantes evidenciaron el manejo empírico de las finanzas por parte de los comerciantes del mercado mayorista de la ciudad de Riobamba, debido al bajo nivel de educación financiera que incide en la capacidad de gestión y manejo de sus recursos económicos. Al mismo tiempo generan graves dificultades tales como: sobre endeudamiento, falta de inversión, deficiente ahorro y financiamiento de la actividad comercial a través de fuentes informales con elevados costos financieros y sociales. La investigación concluye la necesidad de trasferencia de conocimientos que permita en el mediano y largo plazo fortalecer la cultura financiera de los comerciantes mediante programa de formación y educación financiera con participación directa de las Universidades y Escuelas Politécnicas de la localidad a través de sus Facultades de Administración de Empresas y unidades de vinculación con la comunidad
Interacción de la auditoría de gestión en el direccionamiento estratégico de cooperativas de transporte
Authors: Mayorga Díaz Mónica Patricia , Hervas Paredes Edith Andrea , López Paredes María Alexandra , Toaza Tipantasig Silvia Elizabeth
Published: May 2020

La realidad empresarial moderna de las distintas organizaciones a nivel global en cuanto a la evaluación del cumplimiento de objetivos,  conlleva al diagnóstico de la interacción de la auditoría de gestión en el direccionamiento estratégico,  por lo que es  preciso considerar la inclusión de los componentes de la responsabilidad social en su gestión, es cuando surge la urgente necesidad de que las memorias de la ejecución de este tipo de auditoría formen parte de la visión estratégica de cualquier organización, por consiguiente para el caso de cooperativas de transporte de pasajeros en el Ecuador es menester valorar la influencia de la medición del componente social en el direccionamiento estratégico, tema que dada su fragmentación en la bibliografía, se determinó como objetivo general de este trabajo: estructurar un diseño de investigación que permita abordar esta situación en sus diferentes niveles, en tal sentido para este estudio se diseña un procedimiento de diagnóstico, en el que se determinaron cuatro (4) etapas de trabajo caracterizadas en tres (3) niveles: el primero integrado por el gobierno cooperativo y los representantes del área financiera de la cooperativa que se denominarán gestores; el segundo lo conforman los auditores externos que serán los controladores, y los representantes de la comunidad considerados usuarios que corresponde el tercer nivel del procedimiento planteado.
Las salvaguardias y la sostenibilidad del sector automotriz de la provincia de Tungurahua - año 2014 a junio del 2017
Authors: Díaz Sánchez Paola Katherine , Mayorga Díaz Mónica Patricia , López Jara Ana Alexandra López Jara , Espinosa Jaramillo María Teresa
Published: May 2020

Las salvaguardias constituyen medidas de urgencia adoptadas por países que por sus importaciones han causado daño al producto nacional o un desequilibrio en la balanza de pagos, esto ha sido tema de debate en el Ecuador, en especial en los últimos ejercicios fiscales, debido a la implementación de 2.963 subpartidas con sobretasas del 45%, 25%, 15% y 5% a bienes de capital, materia prima y bienes de consumo. Esta decisión fue provocada por la apreciación del dólar y la caída de precios del petróleo afectando a múltiples sectores siendo el sector automotriz uno de ellos, en referencia a su afectación económica, para el país e implantación en su sustentabilidad para ayudar al sector automotriz, en el Ecuador se divide en los cuatro grupos que son: 1. diversos económicos, 2. impactos ambientales, 3. impacto a los recursos o materiales, y 4. impactos sociales, es aquella que permite a las empresas entregar sus productos o servicios sin comprometer los recursos futuros o las habilidades de futuras generaciones.; en tal sentido en esta investigación analiza el impacto que han causado las salvaguardias en la situación económica del sector automotriz, mediante el análisis documental, financiero y económico de los ejercicios fiscales 2014 hasta el primer semestre del 2017.
The Key Indicators of Probable Corruption Risks in Critical Areas of Military Activity (Ukrainian Experience)
Authors: Holota Olena , Barynina Marina , Tytkovskyi Oleksandr
Published: May 2020

Using the approach of identifying ʽred flags’, the article analyses the most vulnerable areas of military activity such as defence procurement (acquisition); use of defence lands; housing provision for military personnel and their families; state defence enterprise activity; and use of fuel, to recognise the corruption risks and the consequences of improper activities in these areas for the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces.
Voice Reactivity as a Response to Acute Hypobaric Hypoxia at High Altitude
Authors: Van Puyvelde Martine , Neyt Xavier , Vanderlinden Wim , Van den Bossche Maarten , Bucovaz Tony , De Winne Tony , Pattyn Nathalie
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND: Although the understanding of hypobaric hypoxia is increasing, it remains a hazard in aviation medicine. This study examined the feasibility of detecting voice markers sensitive to acute hypobaric hypoxia in an early presymptomatic (PRE-SYMP) stage.METHOD:
Eight subjects qualified with hypobaric training completed a series of standardized speech tests in a hypobaric chamber at 20,000 ft and 25,000 ft (6096 and 7620 m) of altitude. Voice response patterns were analyzed in terms of fundamental frequency (F0), F0 range, and voice onset time (VOT).
We hypothesized a PRE-SYMP compensatory stage in voice reactivity.RESULTS: There was a different dose-response reactivity course at 20,000 ft vs. 25,000 ft, nonlinear to altitude. At 20,000 ft, our hypothesis was confirmed. In comparison to sea level, a PRE-SYMP compensatory stage
could be distinguished, characterized by a decreased F0 range, decreased VOT, and increased F0. During a transitional (TRANS) stage, in comparison with sea level, the F0-range reset, VOT decreased, and F0 increased. During a symptomatic (SYMP) stage, F0 increased, F0 range increased, and VOT
decreased. At 25,000 ft, in comparison to sea level, voice reactivity showed increased F0 and F0 range and decreased VOT in a PRE-SYMP stage and increased F0 and F0 range in the SYMP stage.DISCUSSION: The compensatory PRE-SYMP stage is suggested to be the expression of ongoing bottom-up
and top-down regulatory mechanisms, whereas the 25,000-ft results are interpreted as a combination of tonic and phasic voice reactivity. This tonic component needs to be foreseen in sea level baseline measures.Van Puyvelde M, Neyt X, Vanderlinden W, Van den Bossche M, Bucovaz T, De
Winne T, Pattyn N. Voice reactivity as a response to acute hypobaric hypoxia at high altitude. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2020; 91(6):471–478.
Towards the Affective Cognition Approach to Human Performance in Space
Authors: Mammarella Nicola
Published: May 2020

INTRODUCTION: In recent decades, there has been investigation into the effects of microgravity and microgravity-like environments on cognition and emotion separately. Here we highlight the need of focusing on emotion-cognition interactions as a framework for explaining cognitive
performance in space. In particular, by referring to the affective cognition hypothesis, the significant interplay between emotional variables and cognitive processing in space is briefly analyzed. Altogether, this approach shows an interesting pattern of data pointing to a dynamic relation
that may be sensitive to microgravity. The importance of examining interactions between emotion and cognition for space performance remains fundamental (e.g., stress-related disorders) and deserves further attention. This approach is ultimately interesting considering the potential effects
that microgravity may play on human performance during long-term space missions and on return to Earth.Mammarella N. Towards the affective cognition approach to human performance in space. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2020; 91(6):532–534.
THERMO-GALVANIC EFFECTS IN A NON-ISOTHERMAL ELEMENT BASED ON THE OF IRON-CARBON COMPOSITIONAL ELECTRODE AND ALKALINE ELECTROLYTE
Authors: Boichuk Oleksandr , Pershina Katherine , Riabokin Oleh , Kravchenko Alexandr , Panteleimonov Radyslav
Published: May 2020

In article was established the conditions for measuring thermal diffusion and thermoelectric effects in non-isothermal elements with composite electrodes of powdered iron and carbon in the alkaline electrolytes using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. By the modeling of the impedance spectra of these systems has been established the most advantageous equivalent model scheme, which confirms that the external resistance has several components: the resistance of the electrolyte, the resistance of the capacity of the double electric layer and the resistance of thermal diffusion, which forms the dispersion of the capacity. By the calculations of the capacity and the dispersion of the capacity in the low- and high-frequency measurement range have been shown the effect of the concentration of composition components on the formation of the additional heat capacity, which creates the preconditions for realizing of the thermal electrical effects. Increasing of a concentration of the iron leads to the increase of the number of oxide (semiconductor) structures that increase the additional heat capacity. Such heat capacity induces electrical capacity and its dispersion. That is, it creates the preconditions for the occurrence of thermoelectric effects, especially Sore effects in the non-isothermal element. This work was realized due the projects of the Purpose Program for Basic Research of the Chemistry Department of NAS of Ukraine "Basic Research in Priority Areas of Chemistry" P - 1 - 17 DR 0117U000856 and "Strategy of creation of new heat-energy systems based on iron and its compounds, sulfur and oxygen" No. 0117U0008.
SYNTHESIS OF MONOMERS BASED ON 6-HYDROXYAURONE AND INVESTIGATION ITS PHOTOCHEMICAL PROPERTIES
Authors: Kharchenko Oksana , Smokal Vitaliy , Krupka Oksana
Published: May 2020

In particular, as an important class of organic heterocyclic dyes, aurones exhibit unique photochemical and photophysical properties, which render them useful in a variety of applications, such as fluorescent labels and probes in biology and medicine. Despite of the wide range of applications, the photochemical properties of the aurone class remain less well known. The backbone of aurone molecule has excellent planarity and from the viewpoint of molecular engineering, molecular planarity plays an important role in tuning nonlinear optical properties of materials. Therefore, this work is aimed to the synthesis of new derivatives based on 6-hydroxyaurone and study their photochemical properties. Novel monomers based on (2Z)-2-benzylidene)-6-hydroxy-1-benzofuran-3 (2H)-one with different withdrawing substituents in the benzylidene moiety were synthesized by acylation of the hydroxy group by methacryloil chloride. The polymerization was carried out in 10% solutions of the monomers in dimethylformamide, 2,2ˊ-azobisisobutyronitrile was used as the initiator The structure of the synthesized compounds was proved by 1H NMR spectroscopy. The study of the photochemical properties of synthesized polymers was performed by UV VIS spectroscopy. New polymers with auron moiety have been shown ability to photoinduced Z-E-isomerization. The rate constants of Z-E-photoisomerization were determined by slope angle tangent of dependence ln(D/D0) on the irradiation time. The half-reaction periods for E-isomers of auronecontaining polymers were calculated.
Early Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Physical Activity in U.S. Adults
Authors: Dunton Genevieve , Wang Shirlene , Do Bridgette , Courtney Jimikaye
Published: May 2020

Purpose: To examine the early impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on physical activity in U.S. adults, and whether changes in physical activity levels differed by demographics. Method: U.S. adults (N = 262) completed an online survey between April 10-May 5, 2020. Using the short-form International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), participants reported minutes of vigorous, moderate, and walking physical activity for a typical week in February 2020 (pre-COVID-19) and for the past 7 days (early-COVID-19). Results: Participants (82% female, 20% Hispanic, 41% overweight/obese) ranged in age from 18-79 (M=32.9, SD=12.3) years. On average, vigorous intensity (-61.7 min/week, 37% decrease), moderate intensity (-84.1 min/week, 47% decrease), and walking (-104.4 min/week, 33% decrease) physical activity were significantly reduced, with greater reductions for adults who were not working, Hispanic, or from lower income households. Conclusion: Vulnerable population sub-groups may be harder hit by the COVID-19 pandemic in terms of its impact on health-related behaviors.
The Tri-Part Man:Archetype, Alchemy, and Art: The Jungian substrate of Nabokov's PALE FIRE (Part I)
Authors: Ross Mary
Published: May 2020

The intention of this paper is not to offer an extra-literary schema of Jungian analysis or interpretation of PALE FIRE, but to present credible evidence of Nabokov’s intentional use of the theories of Carl Jung as a major parodic and allegoric substrate of the novel. I look at the relationship of the three main characters, Kinbote, Shade, and Gradus, as the three main Jungian archetypal components of the psyche: the ego, persona, and shadow. These elements form the ‘Tri-part Man,’ a notion common to a number of metaphysical systems, but most clearly evinced in PALE Fire through psychologist Carl Jung’s theories of archetypes and alchemy. Kinbote, Shade, and Gradus, are archetypes as sub-personalities within the psyche of one man. That man, however, is not one of the three, but the three-in-one: the novel’s absent and enigmatic cipher, Professor V. Botkin.
The Long-Term Effects of Early Life Stress on the Modulation of miR-19 Levels
Authors: Mazzelli Monica , Maj Carlo , Mariani Nicole , Mora Cristina , Begni Veronica , Pariante Carmine M. , Riva Marco A. , Cattaneo Annamaria , Cattane Nadia
Published: May 2020

MicroRNAs (miRNAs), one of the major small non-coding RNA classes, have been proposed as regulatory molecules in neurodevelopment and stress response. Although alterations in miRNAs profiles have been implicated in several psychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders, the contribution of individual miRNAs in brain development and function is still unknown. Recent studies have identified miR-19 as a key regulator of brain trajectories, since it drives the differentiation of neural stem cells into mature neurons. However, no findings are available on how vulnerability factors for these disorders, such as early life stress (ELS), can modulate the expression of miR-19 and its target genes. To reach our aim, we investigated miR-19 modulation in human hippocampal progenitor stem cells (HPCs) treated with cortisol during 3 days of proliferation and harvested immediately after the end of the treatment or after 20 days of differentiation into mature neurons. We also analyzed the long-term expression changes of miR-19 and of its validated target genes, involved in neurodevelopment and inflammation, in the hippocampus of adult rats exposed or not to prenatal stress (PNS). Interestingly, we observed a significant downregulation of miR-19 levels both in proliferating (FC = −1.59, p-value = 0.022 for miR-19a; FC = −1.79, p-value = 0.016 for miR-19b) as well as differentiated HPCs (FC = −1.28, p-value = 0.065 for miR-19a; FC = −1.75, p-value = 0.047 for miR-19b) treated with cortisol. Similarly, we found a long-term decrease of miR-19 levels in the hippocampus of adult PNS rats (FC = −1.35, p-value = 0.025 for miR-19a; FC = −1.43, p-value = 0.032 for miR-19b). Among all the validated target genes, we observed a significant increase of NRCAM (FC = 1.20, p-value = 0.027), IL4R (FC = 1.26, p-value = 0.046), and RAPGEF2 (FC = 1.23, p-value = 0.020).We suggest that ELS can cause a long-term downregulation of miR-19 levels, which may be responsible of alterations in neurodevelopmental pathways and in immune/inflammatory processes, leading to an enhanced risk for mental disorders later in life. Intervention strategies targeting miR-19 may prevent alterations in these pathways, reducing the ELS-related effects.
Combining the Sensitivity of LAMP and Simplicity of Primer Extension via a DNA-Modified Nucleotide
Authors: Welter Moritz , Marx Andreas
Published: May 2020

LAMP is an approach for isothermal nucleic acids diagnostics with increasing importance but suffers from the need of tedious systems design and optimization for every new target. Here, we describe an approach for its simplification based on a single nucleoside-5′-O-triphosphate (dNTP) that is covalently modified with a DNA strand. We found that the DNA-modified dNTP is a substrate for DNA polymerases in versatile primer extension reactions despite its size and that the incorporated DNA indeed serves as a target for selective LAMP analysis.
Modules or Mean-Fields?
Authors: Parr Thomas , Sajid Noor , Friston Karl J.
Published: May 2020

The segregation of neural processing into distinct streams has been interpreted by some as evidence in favour of a modular view of brain function. This implies a set of specialised ‘modules’, each of which performs a specific kind of computation in isolation of other brain systems, before sharing the result of this operation with other modules. In light of a modern understanding of stochastic non-equilibrium systems, like the brain, a simpler and more parsimonious explanation presents itself. Formulating the evolution of a non-equilibrium steady state system in terms of its density dynamics reveals that such systems appear on average to perform a gradient ascent on their steady state density. If this steady state implies a sufficiently sparse conditional independency structure, this endorses a mean-field dynamical formulation. This decomposes the density over all states in a system into the product of marginal probabilities for those states. This factorisation lends the system a modular appearance, in the sense that we can interpret the dynamics of each factor independently. However, the argument here is that it is factorisation, as opposed to modularisation, that gives rise to the functional anatomy of the brain or, indeed, any sentient system. In the following, we briefly overview mean-field theory and its applications to stochastic dynamical systems. We then unpack the consequences of this factorisation through simple numerical simulations and highlight the implications for neuronal message passing and the computational architecture of sentience.
Position and Posture Measurements Using Laser Projection Markers for Infrastructure Inspection
Authors: Sasaki Tohru , Shioya Ryo , Sakai Toshitaka , Kinoshita Shunki , Nojiri Takahito , Terabayashi Kenji , Jindai Mitsuru
Published: May 2020

Infrastructure such as roads, tunnels and bridges needs periodical inspection. The conventional structure inspection method, in which a human inspector uses a crack gauge, may lead to problems such as measurement errors and lengthy inspection times. Mobile robots and image processing have been used in the infrastructure inspection field. An image sensor or any sensor is used for measuring the state of the infrastructures. It is necessary that the mobile robot knows its own position and posture during automatic inspection. Generally, the Global Positioning System (GPS) has been used to sense the position of the mobile robot. However, GPS is not usable in places with the ceilings such as under bridges and in tunnels. Therefore, we developed a system to sense the position and posture of mobile robots. This system uses laser projection markers and cameras, and it has a very simple configuration. The camera photographs a target structure and projection laser markers, and the position and posture of the camera and mobile robot were calculated by an image application. The system makes infrastructure inspection more effective and decreases the time needed for inspection. In this paper, we examined the number of necessary laser markers, and we verified our method by experiment.
Discipline in Thermodynamics
Authors: Bejan Adrian
Published: May 2020

Thermodynamics is a discipline, with unambiguous concepts, words, laws and usefulness. Today it is in danger of becoming a Tower of Babel. Its key words are being pasted brazenly on new concepts, to promote them with no respect for their proper meaning. In this brief Perspective, I outline a few steps to correct our difficult situation.
The Strategy of South Korea in the Global Oil Market
Authors: An Jaehyung , Mikhaylov Alexey , Jung Sang-Uk
Published: May 2020

The paper analyzes South Korea’s strategy in the global oil market. South Korean oil cooperation is characterized by the creation or termination of joint projects in the oil sector, as well as the Republic of Korea’s national project for the diversification of state-energy suppliers. Oil cooperation currently has great potential, and the conditions that have developed at the highest level allow open discussions about positive dynamics for short-term and medium-term prospects in the field of oil cooperation. The analysis presented here includes export and import connections in the oil market. The authorities of the current administration of the Republic of Korea have adopted a new political stance towards the north, in accordance with which the state is actively developing and establishing relations with the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) and the Russian Federation. In the coming years, South Korea aims to renew and revise potential projects in the field of oil cooperation. The main result of this is that the political climate of the Republic of Korea is currently concentrated on the development of an oil cooperation strategy.
Impact of MPL on Temperature Distribution in Single Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell with Various Thicknesses of Polymer Electrolyte Membrane
Authors: Nishimura Akira , Okado Tatsuya , Kojima Yuya , Hirota Masafumi , Hu Eric
Published: May 2020

The impact of micro porous layer (MPL) with various thicknesses of polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) on heat and mass transfer characteristics, as well as power generation performance of Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell (PEFC), is investigated. The in-plane temperature distribution on cathode separator back is also measured by thermocamera. It has been found that the power generation performance is improved by the addition of MPL, especially at higher current density condition irrespective of initial temperature of cell (Tini) and relative humidity condition. However, the improvement is not obvious when the thin PEM (Nafion NRE-211; thickness of 25 μm) is used. The increase in temperature from inlet to outlet without MPL is large compared to that with MPL when using thick PEM, while the difference between without MPL and with MPL is small when using thin PEM. It has been confirmed that the addition of MPL is effective for the improvement of power generation performance of single PEFC operated at higher temperatures than normal. However, the in-plane temperature distribution with MPL is not even.
Shuffled Complex Evolution-Based Performance Enhancement and Analysis of Cascade Liquefaction Process for Large-Scale LNG Production
Authors: Majeed Khaliq , Qyyum Muhammad Abdul , Nawaz Alam , Ahmad Ashfaq , Naqvi Muhammad , He Tianbiao , Lee Moonyong
Published: May 2020

Among all large-scale natural gas (NG) liquefaction processes, the mixed fluid cascade (MFC) process is recognized as a best-alternative option for the LNG production, mainly due its competitive performance. However, from a thermodynamic point of view, the MFC process is still far from its potential maximum energy efficiency due to non-optimal execution of design variables. Therefore, the energy efficiency enhancement of the MFC process remains an ongoing issue. The design optimization after fixing the main configuration of the process is one of the most economic, but challenging exercises during the design stages. In this study, shuffled complex evolution (SCE) is studied to find the optimal design of the MFC process corresponding to minimal energy consumption in refrigeration cycles. The MFC process is simulated using Aspen Hysys® v10 and then coupled with the SCE approach, which is coded in MATLAB® 2019a. The refrigerant composition and operating pressures for each cycle of the MFC process were optimized considering the approach temperature inside the LNG heat exchanger as a constraint. The resulting optimal MFC process saved 19.76% overall compression power and reduced the exergy destruction up to 28.76%. The thermodynamic efficiency (figure of merit) of the SCE-optimized process was 25% higher than that of the published base case. Furthermore, the optimization results also imply that there is a trade-off between the thermodynamic performance improvement and the computational cost (no. of iterations). In conclusion, SCE exhibited potential to improve the performance of highly nonlinear and complex processes such as LNG processes.
Study on the Failure Mechanism for Coal Roadway Stability in Jointed Rock Mass Due to the Excavation Unloading Effect
Authors: Wang Eryu , Chen Guangbo , Yang Xiaojie , Zhang Guofeng , Guo Wenbin
Published: May 2020

Aiming at the large deformation instability problem caused by the excavation unloading of a coal roadway in deep-buried slowly inclined jointed rock mass, the geomechanical parameters and deformation failure characteristics of an engineering geomechanical model were investigated. The in-situ stress state of the model was measured with the stress relief method. The geological and mechanical properties of roadway surrounding rock were described. The surrounding rock structure was revealed with the electron microscopy scanning method, micro-fractures and randomly distributed joints highly developed in roadway surrounding rock. Field investigation and monitoring indicated the cross-section of roadway surrounding rock shrank continuously and the deformation distribution was obviously asymmetric. Shotcrete spalling and cable broken failures frequently occurred in the middle and ride side of roof and right rib. Based on the geomechanical conditions of the coal roadway, a discrete element numerical model of coal roadway in gently inclined jointed rock mass was established. The parameters of rock mass in the numerical model were calibrated. The model ran in unsupported condition to restore the evolution process of stress, crack propagation and deformation in roadway surrounding rock due to gradual deviatoric stress release caused by excavation. On this basis, the space-time evolution characteristics and law of stress, crack propagation and deformation were obtained and then the asymmetric large fragmentation and dilatation deformation failure mechanism of roadway surrounding rock in deep-buried slowly inclined jointed rock mass was revealed. The failure reasons of the support structure were analyzed, and the relevant support principles were proposed. The research results can provide scientific references for the stability control of roadways excavated in jointed rock mass.
The Structure of Northern Siberian Spruce–Scots Pine Forests at Different Stages of Post-Fire Succession
Authors: Stavrova Natalia I. , Gorshkov Vadim V. , Katjutin Paul N. , Bakkal Irina Ju.
Published: May 2020

The process of post-fire recovery in mixed Siberian spruce–Scots pine forests (Picea obovata Ledeb.-Pinus sylvestris L.), typical for the European North-West, was studied in the Kola peninsula (Russia). We used the spatial–temporal approach to reveal the size structure (diameter at breast height (DBH) distribution) and vital state of Siberian spruce and Scots pine stands, tree regeneration and species structure of the dwarf shrub–herb and lichen–moss layers at different stages of post-fire succession (8–380 years after the fire). It was found that in both forest-forming species, the process of stand stratification results in the allocation of two size groups of trees. In Siberian spruce, these groups persist throughout the succession. In Scots pine, DBH distributions become more homogeneous at the middle of succession (150–200 years after the fire) due to the extinction of small-size individuals. Siberian spruce stands are dominated by moderately and strongly weakened trees at all succession stages. The vitality status of Scots pine stands is higher compared to Siberian spruce up to 150 years after a fire. The dynamics of regeneration activity is similar in both species, with a minimum at the middle of the restoration period. The results indicate that in Siberian spruce–Scots pine forests, the stand structure and regeneration activity differs substantially in the first half of succession (up to 200 years after the fire) and become similar in the late-succession community. The study of lower layers revealed that the cover of moss–lichen and dwarf shrub–herb layers stabilize 150 years after a fire. Changes in species structure in both layers are observed until the late stage of succession. The originality of the structure and dynamics of mixed Siberian spruce–Scots pine forests is revealed based on a comparison with pure Siberian spruce forests in the same region.
Effects of Combined Resistance and Power Training on Cognitive Function in Older Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Coelho-Júnior Hélio José , Oliveira Gonçalves Ivan de , Sampaio Ricardo Aurélio Carvalho , Sampaio Priscila Yukari Sewo , Lusa Cadore Eduardo , Calvani Riccardo , Picca Anna , Izquierdo Mikel , Marzetti Emanuele , Uchida Marco Carlos
Published: May 2020

The present study compared the effects of traditional resistance training (TRT) and combined power training (PT) and TRT (PTRT) on cognitive parameters and serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels in non-demented, well-functioning, community-dwelling older women. Forty-five older women were randomized into one of three experimental groups: TRT, PTRT, and control group (CG). Cognitive tests explored global cognitive function, short-term memory, and dual-task performance. Serum BDNF levels were assessed at baseline and after the intervention. Exercise sessions were performed twice a week over 22 weeks. In TRT, exercise sessions were based on three sets of 8–10 repetitions at “difficult” intensity. In PTRT, the first session was based on PT (three sets of 8−10 repetitions at “moderate” intensity), while the second session was similar to the TRT. Our analyses indicated that overall cognitive function, short-term memory, and dual-task performance were similarly improved after TRT and PTRT. Serum BDNF concentrations were not altered by any training protocol. In conclusion, the two RT programs tested in the present trial improved global cognitive function, short-term memory and dual task performance in non-demented, well-functioning, community-dwelling older women. In addition, our findings suggest that mechanisms other than BDNF may be associated with such improvements.
A Comparison between Cigarette Topography from a One-Week Natural Environment Study to FTC/ISO, Health Canada, and Massachusetts Department of Public Health Puff Profile Standards
Authors: Robinson Risa J. , Sarles S. Emma , Jayasekera Shehan , al Olayan Aziz , Difrancesco A. Gary , Eddingsaas Nathan C. , Hensel Edward C.
Published: May 2020

Standardized topography protocols for testing cigarette emissions include the Federal Trade Commission/International Standard Organization (FTC/ISO), the Massachusetts Department of Health (MDPH), and Health Canada (HC). Data are lacking for how well these protocols represent actual use behavior. This study aims to compare puff protocol standards to actual use topography measured in natural environments across a range of cigarette brands. Current smokers between 18 and 65 years of age were recruited. Each participant was provided with a wPUM™ cigarette topography monitor and instructed to use the monitor with their usual brand cigarette ad libitum in their natural environment for one week. Monitors were tested for repeatability, and data were checked for quality and analyzed with the TAP™ topography analysis program. Data from n = 26 participants were analyzed. Puff flow rates ranged from 17.2 to 110.6 mL/s, with a mean (STD) of 40.4 (21.7) mL/s; durations from 0.7 to 3.1 s, with a mean (STD) of 1.5 ± 0.5 s; and volumes from 21.4 to 159.2 mL, with a mean (STD) of 54.9 (29.8) mL. Current topography standards were found to be insufficient to represent smoking across the wide range of real behaviors. These data suggest updated standards are needed such that emissions tests will provide meaningful risk assessments.
The Need for the Right Socio-Economic and Cultural Fit in the COVID-19 Response in Sub-Saharan Africa: Examining Demographic, Economic Political, Health, and Socio-Cultural Differentials in COVID-19 Morbidity and Mortality
Authors: Renzaho Andre
Published: May 2020

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has spread quickly across the globe with devastating effects on the global economy as well as the regional and societies’ socio-economic fabrics and the way of life for vast populations. The nonhomogeneous continent faces local contextual complexities that require locally relevant and culturally appropriate COVID-19 interventions. This paper examines demographic, economic, political, health, and socio-cultural differentials in COVID-19 morbidity and mortality. The health systems need to be strengthened through extending the health workforce by mobilizing and engaging the diaspora, and implementing the International Health Regulations (2005) core capacities. In the absence of adequate social protection and welfare programs targeting the poor during the pandemic, sub-Saharan African countries need to put in place flexible but effective policies and legislation approaches that harness and formalise the informal trade and remove supply chain barriers. This could include strengthening cross-border trade facilities such as adequate pro-poor, gender-sensitive, and streamlined cross-border customs, tax regimes, and information flow. The emphasis should be on cross-border infrastructure that not only facilitates trade through efficient border administration but can also effectively manage cross-border health threats. There is an urgent need to strengthen social protection systems to make them responsive to crises, and embed them within human rights-based approaches to better support vulnerable populations and enact health and social security benefits. The COVI-19 response needs to adhere to the well-established ‘do no harm’ principle to prevent further damage or suffering as a result of the pandemic and examined through local lenses to inform peace-building initiatives that may yield long-term gains in the post-COVID-19 recovery efforts.
Hot Weather and Suicide Deaths among Older Adults in Hong Kong, 1976–2014: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Chau Pui Hing , Yip Paul Siu Fai , Lau Eric Ho Yin , Ip Yee Ting , Law Frances Yik Wa , Ho Rainbow Tin Hung , Leung Angela Yee Man , Wong Janet Yuen Ha , Woo Jean
Published: May 2020

Findings of the association between hot weather and suicide in a subtropical city such as Hong Kong are inconsistent. This study aimed to revisit the association by identifying meteorological risk factors for older-adult suicides in Hong Kong using a time-series approach. A retrospective study was conducted on older-adult (aged ≥65) suicide deaths in Hong Kong from 1976 to 2014. Suicides were classified into those involving violent methods and those involving nonviolent methods. Meteorological data, including ambient temperature, were retrieved. Transfer function time-series models were fitted. In total, 7314 older-adult suicide deaths involving violent methods and 630 involving nonviolent methods were recorded. For violent-method suicides, a monthly average daily minimum ambient temperature was determined to best predict the monthly rate, and a daily maximum ambient temperature of 30.3 °C was considered the threshold. For suicide deaths involving nonviolent methods, the number of days in a month for which the daily maximum ambient temperature exceeded 32.7 °C could best predict the monthly rate. Higher ambient temperature was associated with more older-adult suicide deaths, both from violent and nonviolent methods. Weather-focused preventive measures for older-adult suicides are necessary, such as the provision of more public air-conditioned areas where older adults can shelter from extreme hot weather.
Early-Life Conditions and Cognitive Function in Middle-and Old-Aged Chinese Adults: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Yang Lei , Wang Zhenbo
Published: May 2020

A range of previous studies have suggested that early-life conditions (ELCs) are associated with various health problems throughout life in Western societies. The aim of this study was to investigate whether, and how, early-life conditions predicted the level and trajectory of cognitive function in middle- and old-aged Chinese adults. Data were obtained from China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study which comprised 16,258 adults at baseline. Cognitive function was assessed using mental intactness and episodic memory and ELCs were measured by early parental death, childhood socioeconomic status (SES), food deprivation, and childhood health. Growth curve modeling was used to examine the trajectory of cognitive function (three waves in a 6-year period)with particular attention paid to the effects of ELCs on cognition. The results show that early maternal death is associated with the baseline cognitive level among middle- and old-aged Chinese adults (β range between −0.44 and −0.35, p < 0.05), but that this association is also largely attenuated by adulthood education. Higher childhood SES predicts an enhanced level of baseline cognition in both age groups (β range between 0.08 and 1.27, p < 0.001), but only protects against cognitive decline at baseline in middle-aged adults. Participants who were less healthy during childhood tended to have lower cognitive performance than those who had enjoyed good health (β range between −0.36 and −0.14, p < 0.05). The results of this study highlight the detrimental impact of deleterious ELCs on cognitive function throughout later life.