bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hipertansiyon Hastası Yaşlı Bireylerde DASH Diyetine Uyumun Kan Basıncı, Antropometrik Ölçümler ve Diyet Alımı Üzerine Etkisi
Authors: Karaosman Bilgin , Öztürk Müjgan
Published: December 2019

Amaç: Bu araştırmada, Kuzey Kıbrıs Türk Cumhuriyeti’nde bir sağlık merkezine kayıtlı yaşlı hipertansiyon hastalarında, ‘Hipertansiyonu Önlemek için Diyet Yaklaşımları’na (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension DASH) uyumun kan basıncı, antropometrik ölçümler ve diyetle alım üzerine etkilerinin değerlendirilmesi amaçlanmıştır.

Bireyler ve Yöntem: Araştırmaya 60 yaş üzeri 133 hipertansiyon hastası (%18 erkek) dahil edilmiştir. Hastaların boy uzunluğu, vücut ağırlığı, bel çevresi, sistolik (SKB) ve diyastolik kan basıncı (DKB) ölçülmüştür. Hastaların diyetle alımını değerlendirmek için 24 saatlik geriye dönük besin tüketim kaydı alınmıştır. Bireylerin DASH diyetine uyumu ‘düşük uyum: <4 puan’ ve ‘yüksek uyum: ≥4 puan’ şeklinde değerlendirilmiştir.

Bulgular: DASH skoru 3.1±0.8 ve DASH diyetine yüksek uyum gösteren bireylerin oranı %19.5’tir. DASH diyetine düşük ve yüksek uyum gösteren bireylerin SKB ve DKB değerleri arasında anlamlı bir farklılık bulunmamıştır (p>0.05). Hem beden kütle indeksi, hem de kardiyovasküler risk faktörlerinden biri olan bel/boy oranının her iki grup arasında benzer olduğu görülmüştür (p>0.05). DASH diyetine yüksek uyum gösteren bireylerde, düşük uyum gösteren bireylere göre sebze ve süt ürünleri gruplarının tüketim miktarları tüm bireylerde daha yüksek, meyve tüketimi yalnızca kadın bireylerde yüksek ve şeker tüketimi tüm bireylerde daha düşük bulunmuştur (p<0.05). Erkeklerde, DASH diyetine yüksek uyum gösteren bireylerin posa, B2 vitamini, folik asit, potasyum, magnezyum ve çinko alımının; kadınlarda ise B2 vitamini, folik asit, C vitamini, potasyum, magnezyum, kalsiyum ve fosfor alımının düşük uyum gösteren gruptan anlamlı olarak yüksek olduğu saptanmıştır (p<0.05). Hem erkek hem de kadınlarda sodyum alımı yüksek uyum gösteren grupta anlamlı olarak daha düşük bulunmuştur (p<0.05).

Sonuç: Hipertansiyon hastası yaşlı bireylerde DASH diyetine yüksek uyumun kan basıncına olumlu etkisinin olmadığı ancak vücut ağırlığında artışın DKB düzeyinde artışla ilişkili olduğu görülmüştür. Bu hasta grubunda diyete uyumun genel olarak düşük olmasının, DASH diyetinin olumlu etki gösterememiş olmasında rolü olabileceği düşünülmektedir.
Implicaciones prácticas que tiene un Investigador Social para optar por una Metodología de Tipo Cualitativa
Authors: Morales Peralta Lucy Elizabeth
Published: December 2019

El presente ensayo tiene como objetivo inferir y comprender los atributos básicos de las principalesopciones metodológicas para el desarrollo de procesos de investigación social de tipo cualitativo,el cual asume un carácter reflexivo para la investigación social. El investigador se involucra enla realidad que estudia. Se orienta a profundizar en las diferentes perspectivas filosóficas epistemológicasque coexisten en la producción de conocimiento en el campo de las Ciencias Sociales;a partir de lo teórico-epistemológico, se seleccionan los aspectos metodológicos y por ende eldiseño de investigación. Permite la cimentación de la ciencia desde una perspectiva holística, yasume un carácter ideológico del conocimiento y el hecho social.Palabras clave: Opción metodológica, diseño cualitativo, investigación social.
Functional competent approach to master training of future social work specialists
Authors: Korneshchuk Viktoriia
Published: December 2019

The article substantiates the expediency of applying a functional competent approach to social work specialists training, which combines the requirements both with the content of this training and the ability of the future social worker to apply the acquired knowledge, skills and abilities in the direct execution of professional functions.
The correlation of professional functions and competencies (general and special ones) of Masters in social work, determined by the Standard of higher education in specialty 231 «Social work» for the second (Master’s) level of higher education is determined. The possibility of forming separate competencies in the process of studying the
discipline «Professional reliability of personnel of the socionomic sphere», provided by the Master’s training of future social workers at the Odessa National Polytechnic University, is analyzed, namely: the ability to think abstractly, analyze and synthesize; ability to conduct research at the appropriate level; the ability to generate new
ideas (creativity); ability to understand and use modern theories, methodologies and methods of social and other sciences, including methods of mathematical statistics and quantitative sociological methods, in relation to the tasks of fundamental and applied research in the field of social work; ability to implement methods and technologies of innovative practice and management in the social work system; ability to evaluate the process and result of professional activity and quality of social services; ability for joint activity and group motivation, facilitation of group decision-making processes; ability to bring knowledge and own conclusions to specialists and nonspecialists; ability to effectively manage the organization in the field of social work. The tasks for the competency assessment of the learning outcomes (solve complex problems and problems that require updating and integration of knowledge in the context of incomplete / insufficient information and conflicting requirements; to show indepth knowledge and systematic understanding of theoretical concepts, both in the field of social work and in other branches of socio-humanities; collect and perform quantitative and qualitative analysis of empirical data; independently and autonomously to find information necessary for professional growth, to acquire it, to acquire
and produce new knowledge, to develop professional skills and qualities; implement reflective practices in the context of the values of social work, responsibility, including to prevent professional burnout; to organize joint activity of specialists of different industries and non-professionals, to carry out their preparation for social work
tasks, to initiate team-building and to coordinate team work; to develop criteria and indicators of the effectiveness of professional activity, to apply them in evaluating the work performed, to offer recommendations for quality assurance of social services and management decisions) within the study of the specified discipline are proposed.
The use of the modern “Flipped classroom” method for teaching cadets and officers of higher military educational institutions a foreign language
Authors: Kuzmenko Yuliia
Published: December 2019

The purpose of the article is to analyze innovative and very interesting methods of teaching foreign (English) language cadets and officers of higher military educational institutions. The aim of this research is to determine the strategy that is best chosen by the teacher in order to help cadets and officers of higher military educational
institutions to achieve a high level of knowledge of a foreign language (English).
The relevance of the research is not only to take classes under the new «Flipped classroom method» in groups of cadets and officers of higher military educational institutions, but also to prove that this implementation will improve and accelerate the acquisition of knowledge of a foreign language. In the article a number of advanced
teaching methods that have already become traditional are examined and the needs of modern teaching of a foreign language in higher education institutions are met.
The article reveals the essence of the «inverted class» (Flipped classroom) concepts and «inverted learning».
In the article all the positive aspects of learning with the help of using the concept of «inverted class» (Flipped classroom) are analyzed. The prospects for the use of this concept are determined, taking into account world examples of its introduction into the educational process in foreign educational institutions.
The research objective is to offer a special program on the Flipped Classroom learning methodology to better learn foreign (English) language by cadets and officers of higher military educational institutions, and to prove that with the help of this technique high levels of foreign language skills in the field of professional communication can be achieved.
The author studies the differences between the traditional and flipped lessons, and taking into account new functions of a teacher in the lecture-room and the teacher as a tutor. The article describes main advantages and possible disadvantages of the flipped-class learning.
Marine mammals used as bait for improvised fish aggregating devices in marine waters of Ecuador, eastern tropical Pacific
Authors: Castro C , Van Waerebeek K , Cárdenas D , Alava JJ
Published: December 2019

Fish aggregating devices (FADs) are floating objects typically used to attract and capture pelagic fish in industrial tuna fisheries. This study documents 9 cases, involving 31 marine mammals, of incidentally captured, killed or otherwise retrieved cetaceans and pinnipeds which were used, or presumably used, as bait for improvised fish aggregation devices (IFAD) by artisanal fishers in coastal Ecuador. At least 3 species of small cetaceans were affected, including pantropical spotted dolphinStenella attenuata, short-finned pilot whaleGlobicephala macrorhynchus, pygmy killer whaleFeresa attenuataand an unidentified small delphinid, as well as South American sea lionsOtaria byroniawhich were reportedly killed on purpose for this fishing practice. A sperm whalePhyseter macrocephalusand a humpback whaleMegaptera novaeangliaewere presumably found floating at sea and opportunistically exploited as FADs. The South American sea lion represented 80.6% of marine mammals used as bait associated with FADs (25 sea lions out of 31 marine mammals), while the remaining 5 (possibly 6) cetacean species represented 19.4%. This is the first report of baited FADs in Ecuador, the extent of which is still unknown. This fishing technique has not been documented in other nations along the west coast of South America, although baiting of gillnets with marine mammal parts is common in Peru. Without fisheries management and regulation, this illegal fishing practice could rapidly expand and lead to further direct kills and conservation problems for targeted marine mammal populations in the eastern tropical Pacific. A bottom-up fisheries policy in concert with community-based conservation to ban the use of marine mammals as FAD bait is recommended.
ZONING TECHNOGENIC DISTURBED SOILS ON THE EXAMPLE OF THE OKINO-KLYUCHEVSKY BROWN COAL DEPOSIT
Authors: Ondar Ai-Kherel , Kalashnikov Kirill
Published: December 2019

The article analyzes the existing environmental situation at the site of production of brown coal Okino-Klyuchevsky brown coal Deposit. The state of soil and vegetation cover of the Deposit and adjacent territories is estimated. A three-dimensional model of the relief of the Deposit and adjacent territory before and after development is presented. As a result, the zoning of the deposits in the zone "development", "conservation", "improvements".
IMPROVING INTERNET MARKETING AT THE INSTRUMENT-MAKING ENTERPRISE
Authors: Borisov Zafar , Shaburova Aelita
Published: December 2019

The article discusses the use of internet marketing technology in the activities of a semiconductor enterprise. Analyzed the website of the enterprise, identified weaknesses and strengths. Measures to improve the website of the enterprise are suggested.
THE DEVELOPMENT OF GEOINFORMATION SUPPORT OF CULTURAL HERITAGE OF THE NOVOSIBIRSK REGION
Authors: Lebzak Anastasiya , Yankelevich Svetlana
Published: December 2019

The article considers the role of geoinformation technologies in the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage. The urgency of the creation of the reference-cartographic system “Cultural Heritage of the Novosibirsk Region” is proved. The developed requirements for reference-cartographic GIS, its content and structure are given. A technological scheme for creating reference-cartographic GIS objects of cultural heritage is proposed. A developed system of symbols and main results of the study are presented.
DEVELOPMENT OF A TOURIST WEB-MAP FOR THE ALTAI REPUBLIC
Authors: Lebzak Evgenii , Radchenko Lyudmila
Published: December 2019

The article presents a study of the role of information and geoinformation technologies in the tourism industry. The urgency of the development of tourist web-maps of the Altai Republic for geoportal SSGA is given. The content and structure of the created tourist web-map, as well as the developed algorithm for creating thematic web-maps are presented. The developed system of symbols, as well as the results of the study are given.
FUNCTIONAL SCHEME OF THE SIMULATOR FOR DIRECT FIRE AT MOVING TARGETS
Authors: Minina Tatyana , Ushakov Oleg
Published: December 2019

The functional scheme of a simulator for training to shoot a direct focus at moving targets is considered, taking into account the influence of conditions, target parameters and a trellis. The simulator will allow training fighters in training and combat conditions.
METHODS OF PERSONNEL TRAINING IN THE INSTRUMENT-MAKING ENTERPRISE
Authors: Manzay-ool Buyan , Gritskevich Olga
Published: December 2019

The article describes the methods of personnel training, identifies the most effective of them, contributing to improving the competitiveness of enterprises in the market. Issues of relevance were raised, ways to solve it were revealed.
MOTIVATION OF EMPLOYEES AT THE ENTERPRISE
Authors: Lehnovich Sergey , Shaburova Aelita
Published: December 2019

Most organizations compete to survive in an unstable and tough market environment. Employee motivation and performance are essential tools for the long-term success of any organization. On the one hand, measuring performance is crucial to the management of an organization, as it emphasizes the evolution and achievement of the organization. On the other hand, there is a positive relationship between employee motivation and organizational effectiveness. Using the example of NZPP with the OKB, an analysis of factors contributing to the motivation of employees to a high level of efficient organization and to attract more young professionals was made.
SECURITY SYSTEMS USED WITH VIRTUALIZATION TECHNOLOGY
Authors: Pechyonkina Angelika , Selifanov Valentin
Published: December 2019

It’s impossible to imagine a modern information system without virtualized components – servers, remote workstations (VDI), network equipment. The competent approach is necessary to protect these environments. If information system of a company processes information that is subjected to mandatory protection in accordance with requirements of Russian legislation (for example, personal data or information processed in state information systems), then only certified security devices that have passed the procedure of compliance assessment by regulators – the Federal Security Service of Russia and the FSTEC of Russia. The use of these protection means will ensure the required level of information security.
CORRECTION OF SIGNAL DISTORTIONS IN TECHNICAL SYSTEMS OF INFORMATION TYPE
Authors: Urnyaev Dmitriy , Gritskevich Evgenij
Published: December 2019

The work is devoted to study of digital signal processing methods and building a model for processes of forming, distorting and restoring of signals. The considered model is of generalized nature and is intended for use in educational process when studying methods of computer modeling of processes and systems. In addition, the model can be used as a visual aid in the study of signals and methods for their conversion.
OVERVIEW OF DATA CONTROL SYSTEMS AND METHODS AT DEVICE ENGINEERING ENTERPRISE
Authors: Shtepa Denis , Chen-Shan Vladimir , Antonov Ivan , Gritskevich Evgenij
Published: December 2019

The article analyzes the situation related to compliance of regime of preservation the integrity of information circulating in automated information system, control of required information protection level in system databases, as well as the correctness of functioning of algorithms used in processing. A situation is considered that is characteristic, first of all, for a device engineering enterprise, in which a similar system is already in operation or is planned to be introduced. Recommendations are given to improve its information security, promising ways of scientific study of arising problems are outlined.
CREATING OF A THREE-DIMENSIONAL MODEL OF A ROOM WITH PRESENTATION IN THE MODE OF VIRTUAL REALITY
Authors: Antonov Alexandr , Gogolev Dmitry , Chernov Alexander
Published: December 2019

The article presents the results of experimental studies on 3D-modeling of the room, using smartphones and integration with the Unigine Engine virtual reality platform. A flow chart for performing such work has been proposed. Assessment of the accuracy of the obtained 3D model for compliance with the requirements of the unified state real estate market and the proposed further direction of research on this issue.
SOME PREPARATION OF PROJECTS, PLANNING OF TERRITORIES OCCUPIED BY LINE FEATURES OR DESIGNED TO ACCOMMODATE THEM
Authors: Vasilieva Ekaterina , Giniyatov Ilgiz
Published: December 2019

The article deals with the procedure of preparation of planning projects of territories occupied by linear objects or intended for their placement. At the same time, the key points of preparation of planning projects are considered, the normative legal documents on the basis of which the preparation of urban planning documentation is carried out are given, some negative moments that take place in the implementation of the procedure under consideration are revealed and measures to eliminate them are proposed.
APPROACHES TO THE RATIONAL USE OF THE TERRITORY OF SETTLEMENTS (ON THE EXAMPLE OF THE CITY OF KHUJAND, TAJIKISTAN)
Authors: Dubrovsky Alexey , Rustamov Bakhrom
Published: December 2019

The article deals with the concept of quality of the urban environment. The connection of the quality of the urban environment with measures to ensure the rational use of the territory of the settlement is shown. The scheme of interaction of "land protection", "rational use of land" and "environmental protection"is given. The analysis of indicators of quality of the urban environment on the example of the city of Khujand. The numerical values indicating the presence of a number of planning solutions that create a comfortable environment for the population in the city, in particular,
a high coefficient of compactness of the settlement, calculations showing the full provision of the city recreational areas and road network. At the same time the dangerous neighborhood of the city with several burials of radioactive waste is shown. Located in dangerous proximity uranium burial grounds have a high dose of radiation, as well as their partial destruction as a result of external natural factors causes secondary pollution of the surrounding area and groundwater.
TO THE QUESTION OF THE USE OF THE LAND PLOT AND CAPITAL CONSTRUCTION OBJECT IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONALLY PERMITTED TYPE OF USE
Authors: Muratova Anastasia , Giniyatov Ilgiz
Published: December 2019

This article presents the procedure for changing the type of permitted use of the property, especially the preparation of documentation on compliance with the requirements of technical regulations for the use of land and capital construction in accordance with the conditionally permitted type of use, the procedure and organization of public hearings.
VIRTUAL HOLOGRAPHIC LABORATORY
Authors: Pazoev Artem
Published: December 2019

The purpose of this paper is to create a virtual holographic laboratory, allowing to synthesize and process discrete holographic images in computer simulation. Based on MATLAB, the foundations of a virtual holographic laboratory have been created. The program interface is shown. Examples of holograms are given.
DEVELOPMENT OF A TACTILE MAP FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
Authors: Sharapov Artem , Frolova Margarita
Published: December 2019

The possibility of making a tactile map using a laser cutting machine is considered. The stages of development of tactile maps are given. The necessary software is analyzed. The drawings of the tactile map were developed.
INFORMATION SYSTEM FOR QUALITY CONTROL OF PASSENGER TRANSPORTATION
Authors: Bugakov Petr , Dolgochub Evgeniy
Published: December 2019

The paper considers the creation of an information system for assessing passenger transportation. The problems of such a system and its practical implementation are being considered.
SOFTWARE FOR THE ENCRYPTION OF TEXT DATA BASED ON THE MODIFIED ALGORITHM OF RICHARD ZORGE
Authors: Dolgochub Evgeniy , Bugakov Petr
Published: December 2019

The paper deals with the encryption algorithm of Richard Sorge and its subsequent modification. Made a rough evaluation of the cryptographic strength of the modified al-gorithm. The main aspects of the project are described.
BUILDING A THREE-DIMENSIONAL MODEL OF AXIAL JET IN SOLIDWORKS
Authors: Papulov Vladimir
Published: December 2019

The article provides a brief description of the construction of the main parts of the three-dimensional model of the axial water jet, followed by their Assembly into the finished product. The role of computer simulation in the design of complex types of propellers, which include water jet, is shown. The possibility of solving problems of hydrodynamics with the help of "SolidWorks"is demonstrated. The design of the water jet pipe, taking into account the absence of cavitation. The urgency of application of three-dimensional modeling in the field of shipbuilding, using CAD-programs of machine-building orientation is shown.
IMPROVEMENT OF TRAFFIC CONDITIONS OF THE ROAD NETWORK IN THE CITY OF KEMEROVO
Authors: Anokhina Elizabeth
Published: December 2019

Features of movement of conditions site of a road network of the city of Kemerovo are considered, and the options of increasing the capacity of the urban highway are presented.
The Research of Improved Active Disturbance Rejection Control Algorithm for Particleboard Glue System Based on Neural Network State Observer
Authors: Wang Peiyu , Zhang Chunrui , Zhu Liangkuan , Wang Chengcheng
Published: December 2019

For achieving high-performance control for a particleboard glue mixing and dosing control system, which is a time-delay system in low frequency working conditions, an improved active disturbance rejection controller is proposed. In order to reduce overshoot caused by a given large change between the actual output and expected value of the control object, a tracking differentiator (TD) is used to arrange the appropriate excesses. Through the first-order approximation of the time-delay link, the time-delay system is transformed into an output feedback problem with unknown function. Using the neural network state observer (NNSO), a sliding mode control law is used to achieve the accurate and fast tracking of the output signal. Finally, the numerical simulation results verify the effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed method.
Neural Computing Improvement Using Four Metaheuristic Optimizers in Bearing Capacity Analysis of Footings Settled on Two-Layer Soils
Authors: Moayedi Hossein , Bui Dieu , Thi Ngo Phuong
Published: December 2019

This study outlines the applicability of four metaheuristic algorithms, namely, whale optimization algorithm (WOA), league champion optimization (LCA), moth–flame optimization (MFO), and ant colony optimization (ACO), for performance improvement of an artificial neural network (ANN) in analyzing the bearing capacity of footings settled on two-layered soils. To this end, the models estimate the stability/failure of the system by taking into consideration soil key factors. The complexity of each network is optimized through a sensitivity analysis process. The performance of the ensembles is compared with a typical ANN to evaluate the efficiency of the applied optimizers. It was shown that the incorporation of the WOA, LCA, MFO, and ACO algorithms resulted in 14.49%, 13.41%, 18.30%, and 35.75% reductions in the prediction error of the ANN, respectively. Moreover, a ranking system is developed to compare the efficiency of the used models. The results revealed that the ACO–ANN performs most accurately, followed by the MFO–ANN, WOA–ANN, and LCA–ANN. Lastly, the outcomes demonstrated that the ACO–ANN can be a promising alternative to traditional methods used for analyzing the bearing capacity of two-layered soils.
Late-Spring Severe Blizzard Events over Eastern Romania: A Conceptual Model of Development
Authors: Caian Mihaela , Andrei Meda Daniela
Published: December 2019

In this paper, the mechanism and model-representation of a late-spring severe blizzard event on eastern Romania are studied. The mechanism relies on the coupled contribution of the tropospheric ageostrophic circulations associated to jet streaks. These circulations: (1) interact under local and regional forcing (sea surface temperature, topography and latent heat) and (2) feedback on enhancing an upper-level jet’s secondary streak, leading to a persistent, severe event. The enhanced secondary jet streak appears only for developing systems that lead to extreme impact, as shown by 40 years of knowledge of late-spring severe blizzards over the area. It is shown that actual regional high-resolution models are able to represent the occurrence and the mechanism of late-spring severe blizzard events, thus increasing the confidence on their ability to represent current and future climate extreme variability. Understanding the preconditioning of dynamic and thermodynamic processes indicated by this analysis could be useful in supporting the operational forecast analysis.
Frontiers in Microfluidics, a Teaching Resource Review
Authors: Merrin Jack
Published: December 2019

This is a literature teaching resource review for biologically inspired microfluidics courses or exploring the diverse applications of microfluidics. The structure is around key papers and model organisms. While courses gradually change over time, a focus remains on understanding how microfluidics has developed as well as what it can and cannot do for researchers. As a primary starting point, we cover micro-fluid mechanics principles and microfabrication of devices. A variety of applications are discussed using model prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms from the set of bacteria (Escherichia coli), trypanosomes (Trypanosoma brucei), yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae), slime molds (Physarum polycephalum), worms (Caenorhabditis elegans), flies (Drosophila melangoster), plants (Arabidopsis thaliana), and mouse immune cells (Mus musculus). Other engineering and biochemical methods discussed include biomimetics, organ on a chip, inkjet, droplet microfluidics, biotic games, and diagnostics. While we have not yet reached the end-all lab on a chip, microfluidics can still be used effectively for specific applications.
Crafting Task and Cognitive Job Boundaries to Enhance Self-Determination, Impact, Meaning and Competence at Work
Authors: Hornung Severin
Published: December 2019

Job crafting refers to physical and cognitive changes in task or relational work boundaries, enacted by individuals to recreate their work experience in a more motivating and rewarding way, and to realize self-actualization, growth, and meaning at work. This study tests a model of individual, interpersonal, and organizational antecedents and motivational outcomes of situation-directed task and self-directed cognitive job crafting. Employee survey data (N = 1196) from a Chinese telecommunications company permitted confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling. Antecedents were each measured with three-item versions of established scales, a two-dimensional scale on task and cognitive job crafting was newly developed, and a four-dimensional model of psychological empowerment captured motivational effects. Structural modeling confirmed a partial mediating role of job crafting between antecedents and empowerment. Individual growth requires strength and intellectual stimulation from one’s leader that is positively related to both tasks and cognitive crafting, while exposure to organizational constraints triggered task crafting only. Confirming differential motivational effects, task crafting predicted control-oriented empowerment dimensions of self-determination and impact, whereas cognitive crafting affected person-oriented dimensions of meaning and competence. Interpreted as a micro-emancipatory form of self-management, job crafting offers some new insights into leadership, coping, work design, work orientations, and motivation. Practical and research implications of this are discussed.
Rationale of Immunotherapy in Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Its Potential Biomarkers
Authors: Tai David , Choo Su Pin , Chew Valerie
Published: December 2019

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common type of liver cancer, is derived mostly from a background of chronic inflammation. Multiple immunotherapeutic strategies have been evaluated in HCC, with some degree of success, particularly with immune checkpoint blockade (ICB). Despite the initial enthusiasm, treatment benefit is only appreciated in a modest proportion of patients (response rate to single agent ~20%). Therapy-induced immune-related adverse events (irAEs) and economic impact are pertinent considerations with ICB. It is imperative that a deeper understanding of its mechanisms of action either as monotherapy or in combination with other therapeutic agents is needed. We herein discuss the latest developments in the immunotherapeutic approaches for HCC, the potential predictive biomarkers and the rationale for combination therapies. We also outline promising future immunotherapeutic strategies for HCC patients.
The Anti-Proliferative Activity of the Hybrid TMS-TMF-4f Compound Against Human Cervical Cancer Involves Apoptosis Mediated by STAT3 Inactivation
Authors: Hong Joo Young , Chung Kyung-Sook , Shin Ji-Sun , Lee Jeong-Hun , Gil Hyo-Sun , Lee Hwi-Ho , Choi Eunwoo , Choi Jung-Hye , Hassan Ahmed H.E. , Lee Yong Sup , Lee Kyung-Tae
Published: December 2019

We previously reported the potential anti-proliferative activity of 3-(5,6,7-trimethoxy-4-oxo-4H-chromen-2-yl)-N-(3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl) benzamide (TMS-TMF-4f) against human cancer cells; however, the underlying molecular mechanisms have not been investigated. In the present study, TMS-TMF-4f showed the highest cytotoxicity in human cervical cancer cells (HeLa and CaSki) and low cytotoxicity in normal ovarian epithelial cells. Annexin V-FITC and propidium iodide (PI) double staining revealed that TMS-TMF-4f-induced cytotoxicity was caused by the induction of apoptosis in both HeLa and CaSki cervical cancer cells. The compound TMS-TMF-4f enhanced the activation of caspase-3, caspase-8, and caspase-9 and regulated Bcl-2 family proteins, which led to mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) loss and resulted in the release of cytochrome c and Smac/DIABLO into the cytosol. Also, TMS-TMF-4f suppressed both constitutive and IL-6-inducible levels of phosphorylated STAT3 (p-STAT3) and associated proteins such as Mcl-1, cyclin D1, survivin, and c-Myc in both cervical cancer cells. STAT-3 overexpression completely ameliorated TMS-TMF-4f-induced apoptotic cell death and PARP cleavage. Docking analysis revealed that TMS-TMF-4f could bind to unphosphorylated STAT3 and inhibit its interconversion to the activated form. Notably, intraperitoneal administration of TMS-TMF-4f (5, 10, or 20 mg/kg) decreased tumor growth in a xenograft cervical cancer mouse model, demonstrated by the increase in TUNEL staining and PARP cleavage and the reduction in p-STAT3, Mcl-1, cyclin D1, survivin, and c-Myc expression levels in tumor tissues. Taken together, our results suggest that TMS-TMF-4f may potentially inhibit human cervical tumor growth through the induction of apoptosis via STAT3 suppression.
How Prostate Cancer Cells Use Strategy Instead of Brute Force to Achieve Metastasis
Authors: Tharp Darron , Nandana Srinivas
Published: December 2019

Akin to many other cancers, metastasis is the predominant cause of lethality in prostate cancer (PCa). Research in the past decade or so has revealed that although metastatic manifestation is a multi-step and complex process that is orchestrated by distinct cellular and molecular mechanisms, the process in itself is an extremely inefficient one. It is now becoming increasingly evident that PCa cells employ a plethora of strategies to make the most of this inefficient process. These strategies include priming the metastatic sites ahead of colonization, devising ways to metastasize to specific organs, outsmarting the host defense surveillance, lying in a dormant state at the metastatic site for prolonged periods, and widespread reprogramming of the gene expression to suit their needs. Based on established, recent, and evolving lines of research, this review is an attempt to understand PCa metastasis from the perspective of military combat, wherein strategic maneuvering instead of brute force often plays a decisive role in the outcome.
ER Stress and Unfolded Protein Response in Cancer Cachexia
Authors: Roy Anirban , Kumar Ashok
Published: December 2019

Cancer cachexia is a devastating syndrome characterized by unintentional weight loss attributed to extensive skeletal muscle wasting. The pathogenesis of cachexia is multifactorial because of complex interactions of tumor and host factors. The irreversible wasting syndrome has been ascribed to systemic inflammation, insulin resistance, dysfunctional mitochondria, oxidative stress, and heightened activation of ubiquitin-proteasome system and macroautophagy. Accumulating evidence suggests that deviant regulation of an array of signaling pathways engenders cancer cachexia where the human body is sustained in an incessant self-consuming catabolic state. Recent studies have further suggested that several components of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-induced unfolded protein response (UPR) are activated in skeletal muscle of animal models and muscle biopsies of cachectic cancer patients. However, the exact role of ER stress and the individual arms of the UPR in the regulation of skeletal muscle mass in various catabolic states including cancer has just begun to be elucidated. This review provides a succinct overview of emerging roles of ER stress and the UPR in cancer-induced skeletal muscle wasting.
Microstructures and Mechanical Properties of Cu-Coated SiC Particles Reinforced AZ61 Alloy Composites
Authors: Dong Cuige , Wang Richu , Guo Suqing
Published: December 2019

The pure Cu coating was plated on the surface of silicon carbide particles (SiCP) by two different methods, hydrazine hydrate direct reduction method and hydrazine with glucose pre-reduction method. The hydrazine with glucose pre-reduction method is more suitable for Cu plating on the surface of SiCP in terms of morphology and microstructure. AZ61 composites reinforced with different volume fractions (3~15%) uncoated and Cu-coated SiCP were prepared by powder metallurgy followed by hot extrusion. The effect of Cu coating on the morphology of SiCP/AZ61 composite was analyzed by optical microscope (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS), electronic probe micro-analyzer (EPMA) and X-ray diffractometer (XRD). The properties of the composite were characterized by Brinell hardness tester and mechanical testing machine. The effects of Cu coating on the micro-hardness, tensile strength and elongation of SiCP/AZ61 composite were analyzed. The tensile strength of AZ61 composite reinforced with Cu-coated SiCP increased by 3.5~6.3% and the elongation increased by 7.4~35.0% compared with AZ61 composite reinforced with uncoated SiCP. Therefore, the Cu coating can ameliorate the microstructure and properties of the SiCP/AZ61 composite effectively, reduce the defect rate in the composite, and improve the hardness, relative density, tensile strength, elongation of the composite.
Springtime Bark-Splitting of Acer pseudoplatanus in Germany
Authors: Schulze Ernst Detlef , Schweingruber Fritz , Gossner Martin M. , Günther Angela , Weber Ulrich , Stumpf Burkhardt , Komor Ewald
Published: December 2019

A large-scale regional event of springtime bark-splitting in Acer pseudoplatanus was observed in Germany in May 2018, where bark dissected from the wood. In young trees, an average of about 30% of the circumference was affected by cracks that were up to 8 m long. The damage occurred on the south-facing side of the trees after a warm period in March, followed by an extreme cold spell and warm temperatures. In this study, we investigated the possible causes of this damage. The damage occurred in the expanding xylem with cambial cells remaining in the bark. These cells-initiated growths of new, bark-based stems. The unprotected xylem was attacked by several fungi and wood-boring bark beetles. The mode of damage-recovery suggested that this event will eventually lead to a frost-scar-like structure in the future that will not totally heal, because the new stems attached to the old bark were in the process of forming new bark. Due to the increase in variation of springtime temperatures observed over the past 40 years, such damage may become more common in the future.
Public Health Insurance, Non-Farm Labor Supply, and Farmers’ Income: Evidence from New Rural Cooperative Medical Scheme
Authors: Liu Jin , Lu Yufeng , Xu Qing , Yang Qing
Published: December 2019

The major source of income of Chinese farmers is non-farm income, especially wages and salaries. Based on the economics theory of health and healthcare, their non-farm labor supply behavior could be affected by health insurance policies. The work presented in this paper focuses on the impact of the New Rural Cooperative Medical Scheme (NRCMS) on farmers’ non-farm labor supply behavior in China. A four-part model regression approach was used to examine the relationship. Our dataset comprised of 8273 people, aged 45 or above, from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) conducted in 2011 and 2013. The empirical results showed that NRCMS significantly reduced non-farm labor force participation and employment. Compared to non-participants of the NRCMS, the non-farmer labor time of these participants reduced, but the supplementary medical insurance and immediate reimbursement of the NRCMS increased the participants’ non-farm labor time. Our results have contributed to the reform of China’s public health insurance and farms’ income growth, and it would be necessary to actively promote immediate reimbursement, gradually simplify reimbursement procedures for medical treatment in non-registered places, and eliminate the non-portability of NRCMS.
Fault Diagnosis of Loader Gearbox Based on an ICA and SVM Algorithm
Authors: Chen Zhongxin , Zhao Feng , Zhou Jun , Huang Panling , Zhang Xutao
Published: December 2019

When a part of the loader’s gearbox fails, this can lead to equipment failure due to the complex internal structure and the interrelationship between the parts. Therefore, it is imperative to research an efficient strategy for transmission fault diagnosis. In this study, the non-contact characteristics of noise diagnosis using sound intensity probes were used to collect noise signals generated under gear breaking conditions. The independent component analysis (ICA) technique was applied for feature extraction from the original data and to reduce the correlation between the signals. The correlation coefficient between the independent components and the source data was used as the input parameters of the support vector machine (SVM) classifier. The separation of the independent components was achieved by MATLAB simulation. The misdiagnosis rate was 5% for 40 sets of test data. A 13-point test platform for noise testing of the loader gearbox was built according to Chinese national standards. Source signals under the normal and fault conditions were analyzed separately by ICA and SVM algorithms. In this case, the misdiagnosis rate was 7.5% for the 40 sets of experimental test data. This proved that the proposed method could effectively realize fault classification and recognition.
A Training Program to Enhance Disaster Preparedness of Group Companies in the Tokyo Metropolitan Area
Authors: Sudo Noriko , Mashiro Gengaku , Beppu Shigeru , Hakamata Risa
Published: December 2019

Many business continuity (BC) plans do not mention food and water for BC personnel. Moreover, the BC relies on the assumption that, during an emergency or crisis, employees’ basic needs and personal hygiene are satisfied. Although no one can engage in BC without these supplies, literature regarding companies’ disaster stocks for their employees is limited. We evaluated the current situation of companies’ stockpiles of food and other supplies and what their employees thought about them after participating in a newly-developed overnight training program that allows the participants to experience situations that they would encounter in a disaster. Thirty-three employees from eight companies in Tokyo participated in the program. Seventy-five percent of the participants’ companies had food stocks for three days as instructed by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government but, after eating four stock meals, 81.3% of the participants thought it would be better if this provision were improved. The stock rate for bedding was 62.5% but less than 30% of companies stocked both blankets and mats, as suggested by the Sphere Standards. There were several people who complained of sleeplessness and a poor physical condition the next morning and this could be an obstacle in the BC.
Pythagorean 2-Tuple Linguistic Taxonomy Method for Supplier Selection in Medical Instrument Industries
Authors: He Tingting , Wei Guiwu , Lu Jianping , Wei Cun , Lin Rui
Published: December 2019

Supplier selection in medical instrument industries is a classical multiple attribute group decision making (MAGDM) problem. The Pythagorean 2-tuple linguistic sets (P2TLSs) can reflect uncertain or fuzzy information well and solve the supplier selection in medical instrument industries, and the original Taxonomy is very appropriate for comparing different alternatives with respect to their advantages from studied attributes. In this study, we present an algorithm that combines Pythagorean 2-tuple linguistic numbers (P2TLNs) with the Taxonomy method, where P2TLNs are applied to express the evaluation of decision makers on alternatives. Relying on the Pythagorean 2-tuple linguistic weighted average (P2TLWA) operator or Pythagorean 2-tuple linguistic weighted geometric (P2TLWG) operator to fuse P2TLNs, the new general framework is established for Pythagorean 2-tuple linguistic multiple attribute group decision making (MAGDM) under the classical Taxonomy method. Ultimately, an application case for supplier selection in medical instrument industries is designed to test the novel method’s applicability and practicality and a comparative analysis with three other methods is used to elaborate further.
Together in the Fight against Arthropod-Borne Diseases: A One Health Perspective
Authors: Benelli Giovanni , Senthil-Nathan Sengottayan
Published: December 2019

Arthropod-borne diseases represent a major risk for humans, livestock, pets and wildlife worldwide [...]
Self-Perceived Health among Migrants Seen in Médecins du Monde Free Clinics in Europe: Impact of Length of Stay and Wealth of Country of Origin on Migrants’ Health
Authors: Combes Simon Jean-Baptiste , Simonnot Nathalie , Azzedine Fabienne , Aznague Abdessamad , Chauvin Pierre
Published: December 2019

Health of migrants is a widely studied topic. It has been argued that migrant health may deteriorate over time. Though migrants are a “hard to reach” population in survey data, this paper builds on a unique dataset provided by Médecins du Monde from five countries. We study self-perceived health (SPH) in connection with socio-economic and demographic factors and length of stay. Results differ for men and women. Compared to other documented migrants, asylum seekers have a 50–70% greater chance of having worse health. Migrants with better living conditions have a 57–78% chance of being in better health. Male migrants with a job have between a 82–116% chance of being in good health. The probability for women from poorer countries to have a better physical SPH after three months of residing in the host country is six-fold that of women from richer countries. This paper contributes widely to the knowledge of health of migrants. Contrary to other evidence, health of women migrants from poorer countries tends to improve with length of stay.
Construction and Demolition Waste as Recycled Aggregates in Alkali-Activated Concretes
Authors: Abdollahnejad Zahra , Mastali Mohammad , Falah Mahroo , Luukkonen Tero , Mazari Mehran , Illikainen Mirja
Published: December 2019

The growth of global construction has contributed to an inevitable increase in the amount of construction and demolition (C&D) waste, and the recycling of C&D waste as aggregates in concrete is receiving increased interest, resulting in less demand for normal aggregates and bringing a potential solution for the landfilling of wastes. Recently, several studies have focused on the use of C&D waste in alkali-activated concrete to move one step closer to sustainable concretes. This paper focuses on the main mechanisms of using C&D waste in the resulting physical, mechanical, and durability properties of alkali-activated concrete in fresh and hardened state properties. The main difficulties observed with recycled aggregates (RA) in concrete, such as high levels of water demand, porous structure, and low mechanical strength, occur in RA alkali-activated concretes. These are associated with the highly porous nature and defects of RA. However, the high calcium concentration of RA affects the binder gel products, accelerates the hardening rate of the concrete, and reduces the flowability of alkali-activated concretes. For this reason, several techniques have been investigated for modifying the water content and workability of the fresh matrix and for treating RA and RA/alkali-activated binder interactions to produce more sustainable alkali-activated concretes.
Effect of Relative Density on Compressive Load Response of Crumpled Aluminium Foil Mesh
Authors: Hughes David , Amalu Emeka , Pak Tannaz , Kennedy Ryan
Published: December 2019

In recent years, a large number of metal foams and porous metals have been developed. Due to the high cost of these materials alternative manufacturing methods for cellular metallic materials are being explored. Crumpled metallic foil meshes, manufactured via die compression techniques, are evolving as a potential alternative method. However, the non-availability of sufficient data on their load response is limiting their uptake. Uniaxial compressive load response of crumpled aluminium foil meshes (CAFMs) of varying densities, forged by open and closed die compression, are studied. A 0.05 mm thick aluminium sheet mesh, manufactured by the expanded metal process is used. X-ray computed micro-tomography is employed to image the CAFM’s internal cellular structure. The stress-strain relation demonstrates that the CAFMs produce identical load response profile irrespective of their relative density. Power law functions E R = 17110 ρ r 3.6547 and σ Y , E = 53.092 ρ r 2.2249 define the relationships between real Young’s Modulus E R and effective yield strength, σ Y , E . The study provides new knowledge on the effect of relative density on the compressive properties of CAFMs which have applications across lightweight structural design.