bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ANÁLISE RELACIONAL ENTRE O DESEMPENHO AMBIENTAL, SOCIAL E ECONÔMICO: ESTUDO DAS CORPORAÇÕES COM SELO ISE DA BM&FBOVESPA
Authors: Gabriel André Luis , Feil Alexandre André
Published: June 2019

Este estudo objetiva analisar a relação entre os investimentos ambientais, sociais e econômicos das corporações cadastradas no Índice de Sustentabilidade Empresarial (ISE) da BMFBovespa de 2016. A metodologia é quantitativa, descritiva e o procedimento técnico é a pesquisa documental. A análise dos dados ocorreu mediante testes estatísticos, sendo a correlação de Pearson, Teste t de student, Teste de Levene e pelo coeficiente de variação. Os resultados apontam que o desempenho ambiental mais eficiente é das corporações dos setores de combustível, alimentício e de extração de recursos naturais; ao analisar a dimensão social, destacam-se os setores de transportes e de energia elétrica; e, na dimensão econômica, destacam-se as organizações dos serviços financeiros. A análise de variância com base no Teste Levene F (1,296) = 0,263 e t de Student (0,246) = 0,807 revelam um p 0,05, neste sentido, sugerem que não há diferença entre a média do desempenho ambiental e social. Além disso, o teste Pearson revela que não há correlações significativas do desempenho ambiental e social em relação ao desempenho econômico. Conclui-se que a geração de lucro ou prejuízo das corporações da carteira ISE da BMFBovespa de 2016 não influencia no montante de investimento realizado no âmbito ambiental e social.Palavras-Chave: Índice de Sustentabilidade Empresarial. Correlação de Pearson. Teste t de Student. RELATIONAL ANALYSIS BETWEEN ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC PERFORMANCE: STUDY OF CORPORATIONS WITH ISE OF BM FBOVESPAAbstract: This study aims to analyze the relationship between environmental, social and economic investments of corporations registered in the BMFBovespa Corporate Sustainability Index (CSI) of 2016. The methodology is quantitative, descriptive and the technical procedure is documentary research. Data analysis was performed using statistical tests, Pearson correlation, Student t test, Levene test and coefficient of variation. The results indicate that the most efficient environmental performance is of the corporations of the fuel, food and natural resources extraction sectors; when analyzing the social dimension, the sectors of transport and electric energy stand out; and, in the economic dimension, the financial services organizations stand out. The analysis of variance based on the Levene F test (1.296) = 0.263 and Student t (0.246) = 0.807 revealed a p 0.05, in this sense, suggest that there is no difference between the average environmental and social performance. In addition, the Pearson test reveals that there are no significant correlations of environmental and social performance in relation to economic performance. It´s concluded that the generation of profit or loss of the corporations of the BMFBovespa CSI portfolio of 2016 does not influence the amount of investment made in the environmental and social scope.Keywords: Corporate Sustainability Index. Pearson correlation. Test t of Student.
A INEVITABILIDADE DA MUDANÇA: GERADORA DE CONFLITO OU DE COMPLEMENTARIEDADE NOS AMBIENTES ORGANIZACIONAIS?
Authors: Bonina Noemi , Patrício Jofrina Zinaenda
Published: June 2019

Através de um estudo de caso realizado na área da saúde desenvolvemos um trabalho que busca explanar sobre a inevitabilidade da mudança nos contextos de “ser e estar” no mundo, onde a globalização, a competição, os avanços tecnológicos, as mudanças dos consumidores, as novas pressões sociais, reflectem o cenário actual. Através de um olhar sobre as atitudes individuais perante a mudança e suas perspectivas, a aceitação e a resistência ao “novo”, traz-se a reflexão sobre a formação e o seu papel para o desenvolvimento das competências, onde um de seus objectivos é desenvolver e aperfeiçoar o indivíduo no melhor desempenho de produtividade e eficiência que as empresas necessitam para actuar nos seus mercados globais e competitivos. Assim, buscamos lançar esse olhar sobre a interligação entre quatro factores importantes: competência, formação, mudança e competição, que podem ser entendidos como factores de conflito ou como complementares aos ambientes organizacionais.Palavras-Chave: Transformação. Formação. Competências. INEVITABILITY OF CHANGE: GENERATOR OF CONFLICT OR COMPLEMENTARITY IN THE ORGANIZATIONAL ENVIRONMENTS?Abstract: Through a case study in health developed a work that seeks to explain about the inevitability of change in the contexts of "being and be" in the world, where globalization, competition, technological advances, changes of consumers, new social pressures, reflect the current scenario. Through a look at the individual attitudes towards change and its prospects, acceptance and resistance to the "new" brings to reflection on education and its role in the development of skills, where one of his objectives is to develop and improve the individual in the best performance of productivity and efficiency that businesses need to act in their global and competitive markets. Thus, we seek to launch this look on linking four major factors: competence, training, change and competition, which can be understood as factors of conflict or as complementary to organizational environments.Keywords: Transformation. Formation. Skills.
Wainwright's West Yorkshire: Affect and Landscape in the Television Drama of Sally Wainwright
Authors: Woods Faye
Published: June 2019

Over the past two decades RED Production Company's key presence in British television drama has been grounded in its regional focus on the North of England. It shares this commitment with Sally Wainwright, whose work with and outside of RED is built around a strong affective engagement with its characters’ experiences. These stories offer intimate explorations of family dynamics and female relationships, situated within and interwoven with the spaces and places of West Yorkshire. From her adaptation of Wuthering Heights in Sparkhouse (BBC, 2002) to her 2016 Christmas biopic of the Brontë sisters To Walk Invisible (BBC, 2016), through Last Tango in Halifax (BBC, 2012–16) and Happy Valley (BBC, 2014–) these are distinctly regional narratives whose female-led familial melodrama, psychodrama and romance are embedded within and return to the landscapes of the region, spaces which blend the stolid and torrid. Wide and spectacular aerial shots follow cars that track through the green and brown expanses between the Harrogate and Halifax families of the elderly couple in Last Tango, the beauty of the Calder Valley pens in the stark bleakness that is foundational to Happy Valley, and the Brontë sisters stride across heathered hills and are silhouetted against grey skies in To Walk Invisible. This article explores the visual dynamics of Wainwright's work and her engagement with the landscapes of the region in both her writing and direction, evoking their numerous literary and cultural connotations in her interweaving of West Yorkshire's stark, dynamic beauty with her stories of intimate female affect.
Cambios tecnológicos en condición de frontera: el surgimiento de San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora
Authors: Samaniego López Marco Antonio ,   Universidad Autónoma de Baja California
Published: June 2019

El escrito muestra la forma en que la implementación de tecnología hidráulica en el límite fronterizo de Arizona, generó condiciones para la formación del poblado y la zona agrícola de San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora. Se analiza cómo a partir de las condiciones geográficas impuestas por la corriente hidrológica internacional, la inversión realizada en Estados Unidos propició condiciones para un asentamiento en la parte mexicana de la zona fronteriza en cuestión. De igual forma, se destaca cómo a pesar de la falta de inversión en México, fue posible realizar los primeros canales sin equipo, mientras que en la parte estadounidense se construyó un modelo de la ingeniería mundial, como fue el sifón invertido.
Public Migration Policies from an Agnotological Perspective: Institutional Omission and Confusion Around the “Bracero” File
Authors: Schaffhauser Philippe ,   Colegio de Michoacán
Published: June 2019

This article derives from a series of previous studies since 2008 about the movement of former workers in different parts of Mexico. This movement has several sociological edges: social rights, labor migration, return migrations, public migration policies, emotional experiences of migration, old age, rural areas, etc. The role of ignorance in the relationship between braceros and authorities is addressed, in the light of this complexity. Ignorance, known as agnotology from the pioneering works of the historian Robert Proctor, has become an object of study to understand another aspect of contemporary governance. It consists in the deliberate production of ignorance that is infused and spread to a given audience, often taking advantage of its vulnerability. It works by omission (absence of information) or confusion (multiple information). The above is my object of study and then I present its first research results.
Democracy and Social Forces
Authors: Edgell Amanda , Bernhard Michael
Published: June 2019

Popular struggles for representation and incorporation occupy a prominent place in our understanding of regime change. The role of social forces in democratization processes has, until recently, been difficult to study in a large-n framework. In this paper, we present a set of tests drawing on recent data advances at the Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Institute and the Nonviolent and Violent Campaigns and Outcomes (NAVCO) project. While we cannot track and measure social forces like small-n researchers, we draw upon measures of civil society organization and mobilization as proxies. We examine the impact of civil society organizational capacity and anti-system movement activity to gauge the extent to which organized and mobilized social forces are responsible for the stability, backsliding, and deepening of democracy.
The long shadow of dictatorships beyond the near East: authoritarian legacies and citizens' democratic attitudes in Indonesia, Myanmar and Thailand
Authors: Dore Giovanna
Published: June 2019

Starting in mid-1980, the progressive weakening of several autocracies provided a catalyst for democratization in Asia. Yet, the movement toward democracy has remained limited. Using original national-level survey data, this article investigated the possible impacts of authoritarian legacies on citizens’ attitudes towards democratic rule in Indonesia, Myanmar, and Thailand, and also attempted a comparison with countries in the middle East and North Africa. It found that citizens lack a for- better-or-worse commitment to democratic rule and see it “as a second-best alternative, or as a lesser evil by comparison with a plurality of undemocratic alternatives”, that even those who wholeheartedly support democratic rule appear to lack many of the political strengths and underlying civic habits needed for the development of a lasting democratic political culture, and that countries’ specific combinations of a small numbers of predictors explain citizens’ support for democratic rule in Indonesia, Myanmar and Thailand.
Rethinking the Undergraduate Political Science Major: The Wahlke Report Revisited
Authors: Smith Steven Rathgeb , McConaughey Meghan
Published: June 2019

As new trends and challenges impinge on higher education, reconsideration of the structure and purpose of the political science major will be fundamental in determining its future. The Wahlke report, or “Liberal Learning and the Political Science Major” by John C. Wahlke, was published in 1991 as the Report of Task Force on the Political Science Major, appointed by APSA President Lucian Pye, and as part of volume on “Liberal Learning and Arts and Sciences Majors” compiled by Association of American Colleges. The report set forth a vision of liberal political education, and a set of recommendations for achieving it. In the intervening years, though, new challenges to the political science major—from unsustainable costs and new technologies to changing student populations and demands for new skills—have emerged. The coming challenge will be to respond to these changes while retaining a core structure and coherence of the political science major.
Power and Trade Agreements between Developed and Developing Countries
Authors: Afzal Muhammad Hassan Bin
Published: June 2019

In this paper, while reviewing, investigating, and comparing the works of Wade (1992); Ozden (2003); and Bist and Read (2018), I argue that despite the collaborative efforts and policies from the world organizations and developed countries, the developing countries still face significant difficulties due to their economic status while conducting transnational trade and business with developed countries and often fail to attain mutually beneficial terms and agreements. I also reviewed several other reports that outline a similar trend and pattern between bi and multilateral business agreements where less developed countries systematically failed to attain equal space in the negotiation table. Wade (2018) argues that developed countries and world organizations collectively need to address this issue and develop a sustainable framework that ensures equal and equity-based participation from less developing countries, and this will ensure collective and sustainable global socioeconomic growth.
A New Regularized Reconstruction Algorithm Based on Compressed Sensing for the Sparse Underdetermined Problem and Applications of One-Dimensional and Two-Dimensional Signal Recovery
Authors: Wang Bin , Wang Li , Yu Hao , Xin Fengming
Published: June 2019

The compressed sensing theory has been widely used in solving undetermined equations in various fields and has made remarkable achievements. The regularized smooth L0 (ReSL0) reconstruction algorithm adds an error regularization term to the smooth L0(SL0) algorithm, achieving the reconstruction of the signal well in the presence of noise. However, the ReSL0 reconstruction algorithm still has some flaws. It still chooses the original optimization method of SL0 and the Gauss approximation function, but this method has the problem of a sawtooth effect in the later optimization stage, and the convergence effect is not ideal. Therefore, we make two adjustments to the basis of the ReSL0 reconstruction algorithm: firstly, we introduce another CIPF function which has a better approximation effect than Gauss function; secondly, we combine the steepest descent method and Newton method in terms of the algorithm optimization. Then, a novel regularized recovery algorithm named combined regularized smooth L0 (CReSL0) is proposed. Under the same experimental conditions, the CReSL0 algorithm is compared with other popular reconstruction algorithms. Overall, the CReSL0 algorithm achieves excellent reconstruction performance in terms of the peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) and run-time for both a one-dimensional Gauss signal and two-dimensional image reconstruction tasks.
Developments in Contact Lens Imaging: New Applications of Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Stachura Joanna , Seredyka-Burduk Małgorzata , Piotrowiak-Słupska Ilona , Kaszuba-Modrzejewska Magdalena , Rzeszewska-Zamiara Jagoda , Kałużny Bartłomiej J.
Published: June 2019

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a high-speed and non-contact optical imaging technology widely used for noninvasive cross-sectional imaging of biological objects. Two main OCT technologies have been developed: time domain and Fourier domain technologies. The latter can be further divided into spectral domain OCT, which uses a broadband light source and a spectrometer as a detector, and swept source OCT, which employs a quickly-rotating laser source. Advances in OCT technology have made it one of the most helpful devices in ophthalmic practice. Fourier OCT has revolutionized imaging of the posterior segment of the eye, as well as of anterior structures and has enhanced the ability to diagnose and manage patients. It provides high-resolution information about the tear film, contact lens (CL), a qualitative and quantitative assessment of the anterior eye that is important in CL fitting, and allows possible eye surface changes while wearing CLs to be monitored. Potential swept source OCT technology applications include industrial processes of lens design and quality control. In this paper, we describe clinical applications ant outline a variety of multifunctional uses of OCT in the field of refractive error correction with CLs.
Application of Deep Eutectic Solvents to Prepare Mixture Extracts of Three Long-Lived Trees with Maximized Skin-Related Bioactivities
Authors: Jin Yan , Jung Dasom , Li Ke , Park Keunbae , Ko Jaeyoung , Yang Misuk , Lee Jeongmi
Published: June 2019

This study aims to apply deep eutectic solvents (DESs) as safe and efficient extraction media that could yield maximized skin-related bioactivities from a mixture of long-lived trees. Ginkgo biloba L., Cinnamomum camphora (L.) J. Presl., and Cryptomeria japonica (L.f.) D. Don, native to Asia, were examined as potential resources of cosmeceutical products. Various DESs synthesized from cosmetics-compatible compounds were used to prepare leaf extracts. A DES containing glycerol and xylitol yielded the highest extractability for isoquercetin, and was selected as the optimal solvent. Isoquercetin has various bioactivities and was found in the extracts of the leaves of all three trees. Then, a series of mixtures of the tree leaves were prepared according to a simplex-centroid mixture design, and their DES-extracts were tested for skin-related activities, including antioxidant, anti-tyrosinase, and anti-elastase activities. The mixture design resulted in two special cubic models and one quadratic model best fitted for describing the antioxidant and anti-elastase activities, and the anti-tyrosinase activity, respectively. Based on the established models, three different optimal formulations of the three kinds of tree leaves were suggested for maximized responses. The present strategy, which is based on the simplex-centroid mixture design with a DES as the extraction solvent, could be applied to developing new materials from a mixture of natural resources, suitable for the cosmetics and related fields.
Fine Exploration and Control of Subway Crossing Karst Area
Authors: Wang Jing , Li Liping , Shi Shaoshuai , Sun Shangqu , Ba Xingzhi , Zhang Yijie
Published: June 2019

A large number of subway projects need to cross all kinds of disaster sources during the construction process. When a disaster source is unknown and uncertain, it is difficult for tunnel stability analysis to conform to the actual situation, which is likely to cause serious geological disasters. Firstly, the accurate location of the source of the disaster is realized via the geophysical method, and the orientation of the target is determined. Secondly, real imaging of the geological disaster source is realized using fine three-dimensional scanning equipment. Finally, the coupling law of the seepage field, displacement field, and stress field of the tunnel surrounding rock are analyzed. The stability of the tunnel is analyzed, and the reasonable karst treatment method is put forward.
Biogenic Aerosol in the Arctic from Eight Years of MSA Data from Ny Ålesund (Svalbard Islands) and Thule (Greenland)
Authors: Becagli Silvia , Amore Alessandra , Caiazzo Laura , Iorio Tatiana Di , Sarra Alcide di , Lazzara Luigi , Marchese Christian , Meloni Daniela , Mori Giovanna , Muscari Giovanni , Nuccio Caterina , Pace Giandomenico , Severi Mirko , Traversi Rita
Published: June 2019

In remote marine areas, biogenic productivity and atmospheric particulate are coupled through dimethylsulfide (DMS) emission by phytoplankton. Once in the atmosphere, the gaseous DMS is oxidized to produce H2SO4 and methanesulfonic acid (MSA); both species can affect the formation of cloud condensation nuclei. This study analyses eight years of biogenic aerosol evolution and variability at two Arctic sites: Thule (76.5° N, 68.8° W) and Ny Ålesund (78.9° N, 11.9° E). Sea ice plays a key role in determining the MSA concentration in polar regions. At the beginning of the melting season, in April, up to June, the biogenic aerosol concentration appears inversely correlated with sea ice extent and area, and positively correlated with the extent of the ice-free area in the marginal ice zone (IF-MIZ). The upper ocean stratification induced by sea ice melting might have a role in these correlations, since the springtime formation of this surface layer regulates the accumulation of phytoplankton and nutrients, allowing the DMS to escape from the sea to the atmosphere. The multiyear analysis reveals a progressive decrease in MSA concentration in May at Thule and an increase in July August at Ny Ålesund. Therefore, while the MSA seasonal evolution is mainly related with the sea ice retreat in April, May, and June, the IF-MIZ extent appears as the main factor affecting the longer-term behavior of MSA.
Salivary Extracellular Vesicle-Associated exRNA as Cancer Biomarker
Authors: Chiabotto Giulia , Gai Chiara , Deregibus Maria Chiara , Camussi Giovanni
Published: June 2019

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) secreted in biological fluids contain several transcripts of the cell of origin, which may modify the functions and phenotype of proximal and distant cells. Cancer-derived EVs may promote a favorable microenvironment for cancer growth and invasion by acting on stroma and endothelial cells and may favor metastasis formation. The transcripts contained in cancer EVs may be exploited as biomarkers. Protein and extracellular RNA (exRNA) profiling in patient bio-fluids, such as blood and urine, was performed to identify molecular features with potential diagnostic and prognostic values. EVs are concentrated in saliva, and salivary EVs are particularly enriched in exRNAs. Several studies were focused on salivary EVs for the detection of biomarkers either of non-oral or oral cancers. The present paper provides an overview of the available studies on the diagnostic potential of exRNA profiling in salivary EVs.
How to Report Light Exposure in Human Chronobiology and Sleep Research Experiments
Authors: Spitschan Manuel , Stefani Oliver , Blattner Peter , Gronfier Claude , Lockley Steven , Lucas Robert
Published: June 2019

Exposure to light has short- and long-term impacts on non-visual responses in humans. While many aspects related to non-visual light sensitivity have been characterised (such as the action spectrum for melatonin suppression), much remains to be elucidated. Here, we provide a set of minimum reporting guidelines for reporting the stimulus conditions involving light as an intervention in chronobiology, sleep research and environmental psychology experiments. Corresponding to the current state-of-the-art knowledge (June 2019), these are (i) measure and report the spectral power distribution of the acute stimulus from the observer’s point of view; (ii) measure and report the spectral power distribution of the background light environment from the observer’s point of view; (iii), make spectra available in tabulated form, (iv) report α-opic (ir)radiances and illuminance; (v) describe the timing properties of stimulus (duration and pattern); (vi) describe the spatial properties of stimulus (spatial arrangement and extent), and (vii) report measurement conditions and equipment. We supplement the minimum reporting guidelines with optional reporting suggestions and discuss limitations of the reporting scheme.
Major Socio–Political Factors that Impact on the Changing Role, Perception and Image of Imams among Dutch–Turkish Muslims
Authors: Gürlesin Ömer Faruk
Published: June 2019

Public debates in the Netherlands assume there is an inherent tension between the traditional task of the imam and his tasks in the secularized Dutch society. Studies of the effect of age and generation on religiosity report that intense religious changes are taking place among second-generation migrants. But the direction of this change is interpreted differently by scholars. A majority of scholars indicate that second-generation migrants consider themselves more ‘Muslim’ and are more concerned about the traditional sources of religious authority. Other studies report that there is an ongoing pattern of secularization among Muslims in Europe and that second-generation migrants consider themselves less concerned about the traditional and popular sources of religious leadership and authority. In relation to the findings of my PhD study, in this contribution, I elaborate on several factors to shed some light on the possible reasons behind these different findings. These factors are, in turn, the lack of language skills and knowledge of the local culture, the politization of Diyanet’s institutional culture, and the secularization of young immigrant identity. While discussing these factors, I evaluated their role in the formation of the public image of imams. The results indicate that the image of the imam in Dutch–Turkish Muslim communities is not uniform. On the one hand, there are the educated interviewees and spiritually oriented respondents, who generally criticize the ignorance of most imams and the irrelevance of their sermons to young Muslims in Europe. On the other hand, there are the less educated respondents and the respondents who strongly experience popular religiosity, who do not question the authority of imams. The image of the imam in the minds of the majority of Dutch–Turkish Muslims is positive and retains its authority.
Chemical Composition, Nutritional Value, and Safety of Cooked Female Chaceon Maritae from Namibe (Angola)
Authors: Mandume Celso Manuel Cristovão , Bandarra Narcisa M. , Raimundo Joana , Lourenço Helena Maria , Gonçalves Susana , Ventura Marta , Delgado Inês , Rego Andreia , Motta Carla , Castanheira Isabel , Nunes Maria Leonor , Duarte Maria Paula
Published: June 2019

Despite being highly appreciated and consumed, the nutritional value of Chaceon maritae from Namibe (Angola) had never been studied. In the present work, edible tissues (muscle, ovaries, and hepatopancreas) of boiled female C. maritae caught off Namibe coast in two distinct seasons were analyzed in terms of proximate chemical composition (fat, ash, protein, and moisture), fatty acid and amino acid profiles, cholesterol, essential minerals (macro and trace) and toxic elements. Results showed that, in both seasons, C. maritae muscle was a valuable source of protein, essential amino acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and essential elements, especially zinc, selenium, iodine, and copper. Ovaries and hepatopancreas are also good sources of protein, but were richer in fat, particularly when caught in October. Ovarian fat is rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids and that of hepatopancreas has higher values of monounsaturated and saturated fatty acids. Hepatopancreas and ovaries are also good sources of copper and, especially ovaries, of zinc. Moreover, in both seasons, all the edible tissues of C. maritae analyzed presented very low contents of heavy metals (mercury, cadmium, lead, and arsenic).
Determining Evolution of Cosmological Constant, Gravitational Constant and Speed of Light Using Nonadiabatic Cosmological Model and LLR Findings
Authors: Gupta Rajendra P.
Published: June 2019

We have shown that the Hubble constant H 0 embodies the information about the evolutionary nature of the cosmological constant Λ , gravitational constant G , and the speed of light c . We have derived expressions for the time evolution of G / c 2   ( ≡ K ) and dark energy density ε Λ related to Λ by explicitly incorporating the nonadiabatic nature of the universe in the Friedmann equation. We have found ( d K / d t ) / K   =   1.8 H 0 and, for redshift z ,   ε Λ , z / ε Λ , 0   =   [ 0.4 + 0.6 ( 1 + z ) − 1.5 ] 2 . Since the two expressions are related, we believe that the time variation of K (and therefore that of G and c ) is manifested as dark energy in cosmological models. When we include the null finding of the lunar laser ranging (LLR) for ( d G / d t ) / G and relax the constraint that c is constant in LLR measurements, we get ( d G / d t ) / G   =   5.4 H 0 and ( d c / d t ) / c   =   1.8 H 0 . Further, when we adapt the standard Λ CDM model for the z dependency of ε Λ rather than it being a constant, we obtain surprisingly good results fitting the SNe Ia redshift z vs distance modulus µ data. An even more significant finding is that the new Λ CDM model, when parameterized with low redshift data set ( z   <   0.5 ), yields a significantly better fit to the data sets at high redshifts ( z   >   0.5 ) than the standard ΛCDM model. Thus, the new model may be considered robust and reliable enough for predicting distances of radiation emitting extragalactic redshift sources for which luminosity distance measurement may be difficult, unreliable, or no longer possible.
Current Knowledge of Germline Genetic Risk Factors for the Development of Non-Medullary Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Hińcza Kinga , Kowalik Artur , Kowalska Aldona
Published: June 2019

The thyroid is the most common site of endocrine cancer. One type of thyroid cancer, non-medullary thyroid cancer (NMTC), develops from follicular cells and represents approximately 90% of all thyroid cancers. Approximately 5%–15% of NMTC cases are thought to be of familial origin (FNMTC), which is defined as the occurrence of the disease in three or more first-degree relatives of the patient. It is often divided into two groups: Syndrome-associated and non-syndromic. The associated syndromes include Cowden syndrome, familial adenomatous polyposis, Gardner syndrome, Carney complex and Werner syndrome. The hereditary factors contributing to the unfavorable course of FNMTC remain poorly understood; therefore, considerable effort is being expended to identify contributing loci. Research carried out to date identifies fourteen genes (DICER1, FOXE1, PTCSC2, MYH9, SRGAP1, HABP2, BRCA1, CHEK2, ATM, RASAL1, SRRM2, XRCC1, TITF-1/NKX2.1, PTCSC3) associated with vulnerability to FNMTC that are not related to hereditary syndromes. In this review, we summarize FNMTC studies to date, and provide information on genes involved in the development of non-syndromic familial non-medullary thyroid cancers, and the significance of mutations in these genes as risk factors. Moreover, we discuss whether the genetic polymorphism rs966423 in DIRC3 has any potential as a prognostic factor of papillary thyroid cancer.
Geriatric Assessment in Multicultural Immigrant Populations
Authors: Ward Katherine T. , Hess Mailee , Wu Shirley
Published: June 2019

While the traditional comprehensive geriatric assessment provides valuable information essential to caring for older adults, it often falls short in multicultural immigrant populations. The number of foreign-born older adults is growing, and in some regions of the United States of America (U.S.), they encompass a significant portion of the older adult population. To ensure we are caring for this culturally diverse population adequately, we need to develop a more culturally competent comprehensive geriatric assessment. In this review, we explore ways in which to do this, address areas unique to multicultural immigrant populations, and identify limitations of the current assessment tools when applied to these populations. In order to be more culturally sensitive, we should incorporate the concepts of ethnogeriatrics into a comprehensive geriatric assessment, by addressing topics like healthcare disparities, language barriers, health literacy, acculturation level, and culturally defined beliefs. Additionally, we must be sensitive to the limitations of our current assessment tools and consider how we can expand our assessment toolkit to address these limitations. We discuss the limitations in cognitive screening tests, delirium assessments, functional and mental health assessments, advance care planning, and elder abuse.
Factors Contributing to Sharp Waste Disposal at Health Care Facility Among Diabetic Patients in North-East Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Hasan Ummu Atiyyah , Mohd Hairon Suhaily , Yaacob Najib Majdi , Daud Aziah , Abdul Hamid Anees , Hassan Norzaihan , Ariffin Mohd Faiz , Yi Vun Lau
Published: June 2019

Background: Type 2 diabetic patients are major users of medical sharps in the community. Proper sharp disposal practice among them, however, was reported to be low. The current study was aimed to determine the factors contributing to sharp waste disposal at a health care facility among Type 2 diabetic patients. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, Type 2 diabetic patients who were on insulin therapy attending health clinics were randomly selected and interviewed using a validated questionnaire. Binary logistic regression analysis was applied. Results: Out of 304 respondents, only 11.5% of them brought their used sharps to be disposed at health care facilities. Previous advice on sharp disposal from health care providers, knowledge score, and duration of diabetes were significant contributing factors for sharp waste disposal at health care facilities: (Adj. OR 6.31; 95% CI: 2.63, 15.12; p < 0.001), (Adj. OR 1.05; 95% CI: 1.03, 1.08; p < 0.001), and (Adj. OR 2.51; 95% CI: 1.06, 5.93; p = 0.036), respectively. Conclusion: Continuous education and a locally adapted safe sharp disposal option must be available to increase awareness and facilitate diabetic patients adopting proper sharp disposal behavior.
Experimental Study on the Effects of Vegetation on the Dissipation of Supersaturated Total Dissolved Gas in Flowing Water
Authors: Wang Zhenhua , Lu Jingying , Yuan Youquan , Huang Yinghan , Feng Jingjie , Li Ran
Published: June 2019

High dam discharge can lead to total dissolved gas (TDG) supersaturation in the downstream river, and fish in the TDG-supersaturated flow can suffer from bubble disease and even die. Consequently, it is of great value to study the transport and dissipation characteristics of supersaturated dissolved gas for the protection of river fish. Floodplains may form downstream of high dams due to flood discharge, and the plants on these floodplains can affect both the hydraulic characteristics and TDG transport of the flowing water. In this study, the velocity distribution and the retention response time under different flow conditions and vegetation arrangements were studied in a series of experiments. The retention time was significantly extended by the presence of vegetation, and an empirical formula for calculating the retention time was proposed. In addition, the responses of the dissipation process of supersaturated TDG to hydraulic factors, retention time, and vegetation area coefficient were analyzed. The dissipation of supersaturated TDG significantly increased with increases in the vegetation area coefficient in the water. To quantitatively describe the TDG dissipation process in TDG-supersaturated flow under the effect of vegetation, the TDG dissipation coefficient was fitted and analyzed. The basic form of the formula for the dissipation coefficient involving various influence factors was determined by dimensional analysis. An equation for calculating the TDG dissipation coefficient of flowing water with vegetation was proposed by multivariate nonlinear fitting and was proven to have great prediction accuracy. The calculated method developed in this paper can be used to predict TDG dissipation in flowing water with vegetation and is of great significance for enriching TDG prediction systems.
Evaluating the Suitability of Urban Expansion Based on the Logic Minimum Cumulative Resistance Model: A Case Study from Leshan, China
Authors: Wang Haijun , Peng Peihao , Kong Xiangdong , Zhang Tingbin , Yi Guihua
Published: June 2019

This paper focuses on the suitability of urban expansion in mountain areas against the background of accelerated urban development. Urbanization is accompanied by conflict and intense transformations of various landscapes, and is accompanied by social, economic, and ecological impacts. Evaluating the suitability of urban expansion (UE) and determining an appropriate scale is vital to solving urban environmental issues and realizing sustainable urban development. In mountain areas, the natural and social environments are different from those in the plains; the former is characterized by fragile ecology and proneness to geological disasters. Therefore, when evaluating the expansion of a mountain city, more factors need to be considered. Moreover, we need to follow the principle of harmony between nature and society according to the characteristics of mountain cities. Thus, when we evaluate the expansion of a mountain city, the key procedure is to establish a scientific evaluation system and explore the relationship between each evaluation factor and the urban expansion process. Taking Leshan (LS), China—a typical mountain city in the upper Yangtze River which has undergone rapid growth—as a case study, the logic minimum cumulative resistance (LMCR) model was applied to evaluate the suitability of UE and to simulate its direction and scale. The results revealed that: An evaluation system of resistance factors (ESRFs) was established according to the principle of natural and social harmony; the logic resistance surface (LRS) scientifically integrated multiple resistance factors based on the ESRF and a logic regression analysis. LRS objectively and effectively reflected the contribution and impact of each resistance factor to urban expansion. We found that landscape, geological hazards and GDP have had a great impact on urban expansion in LS. The expansion space of the mountain city is limited; the area of suitable expansion is only 23.5%, while the area which is unsuitable for expansion is 39.3%. In addition, it was found that setting up ecological barriers is an effective way to control unreasonable urban expansion in mountain cities. There is an obvious scale (grid size) effect in the evaluation of urban expansion in mountain cities; an evaluation of the suitable scale yielded the result of 90 m × 90 m. On this scale, taking the central district as the center, the urban expansion process will extend to the neighboring towns of Mianzhu, Suji, Juzi and Mouzi. Urban expansion should be controlled in terms of scale, especially in mountain cities. The most suitable urban size of LS is 132 km2.This would allow for high connectivity of urban-rural areas with the occupation of relatively few green spaces.
Immortalized Human hTert/KER-CT Keratinocytes a Model System for Research on Desmosomal Adhesion and Pathogenesis of Pemphigus Vulgaris
Authors: Beckert Benedikt , Panico Francesca , Pollmann Robert , Eming Rüdiger , Banning Antje , Tikkanen Ritva
Published: June 2019

Pemphigus Vulgaris is an autoimmune disease that results in blister formation in the epidermis and in mucosal tissues due to antibodies recognizing desmosomal cadherins, mainly desmoglein-3 and -1. Studies on the molecular mechanisms of Pemphigus have mainly been carried out using the spontaneously immortalized human keratinocyte cell line HaCaT or in primary keratinocytes. However, both cell systems have suboptimal features, with HaCaT cells exhibiting a large number of chromosomal aberrations and mutated p53 tumor suppressor, whereas primary keratinocytes are short-lived, heterogeneous and not susceptible to genetic modifications due to their restricted life-span. We have here tested the suitability of the commercially available human keratinocyte cell line hTert/KER-CT as a model system for research on epidermal cell adhesion and Pemphigus pathomechanisms. We here show that hTert cells exhibit a calcium dependent expression of desmosomal cadherins and are well suitable for typical assays used for studies on Pemphigus, such as sequential detergent extraction and Dispase-based dissociation assay. Treatment with Pemphigus auto-antibodies results in loss of monolayer integrity and altered localization of desmoglein-3, as well as loss of colocalization with flotillin-2. Our findings demonstrate that hTert cells are well suitable for studies on epidermal cell adhesion and Pemphigus pathomechanisms.
Comparative Study between Laser Light Stereo-Lithography 3D-Printed and Traditionally Sintered Biphasic Calcium Phosphate Scaffolds by an Integrated Morphological, Morphometric and Mechanical Analysis
Authors: Mangano Carlo , Mangano Francesco , Gobbi Luigi , Admakin Oleg , Iketani Satoshi , Giuliani Alessandra
Published: June 2019

In dental districts, successful bone regeneration using biphasic calcium phosphate materials was recently explored. The present study aimed to perform a comparative study between 3D-printed scaffolds produced by laser light stereo-lithography (SLA) and traditionally sintered biphasic calcium phosphate scaffolds by an integrated morphological, morphometric and mechanical analysis. Methods: Biphasic calcium phosphate (30% HA/70% β-TCP) samples, produced by SLA-3D-printing or by traditional sintering methods, were tested. The experimental sequence included: (1) Microtomography (microCT) analyses, to serve as control-references for the 3D morphometric analysis; (2) loading tests in continuous mode, with compression up to fracture, to reconstruct their mechanical characteristics; and (3) microCT of the same samples after the loading tests, for the prediction of the morphometric changes induced by compressive loading of the selected materials. All the biomaterials were also studied by complementary scanning electron microscopy to evaluate fracture regions and surfaces. Results: The characterization of the 3D mineralized microarchitecture showed that the SLA-3D-printed biomaterials offer performances comparable to and in some cases better than the traditionally sintered ones, with higher mean thickness of struts and pores. Interestingly, the SLA-3D-printed samples had a higher ultimate strength than the sintered ones, with a smaller plastic region. Moreover, by SEM observation, it was observed that fractures in the SLA-3D-printed samples were localized in the structure nodes or on the external shells of the rods, while all the traditionally sintered samples revealed a ductile fracture surface. Conclusions: The reduction of the region of plastic deformation in the SLA-3D-printed samples with respect to traditionally sintered biomaterials is expected to positively influence, in vivo, the cell adhesion. Both microCT and SEM imaging revealed that the studied biomaterials exhibit a structure more similar to human jaw than the sintered biomaterials.
Role of Nickel in Microbial Pathogenesis
Authors: Maier Robert , Benoit Stéphane
Published: June 2019

Nickel is an essential cofactor for some pathogen virulence factors. Due to its low availability in hosts, pathogens must efficiently transport the metal and then balance its ready intracellular availability for enzyme maturation with metal toxicity concerns. The most notable virulence-associated components are the Ni-enzymes hydrogenase and urease. Both enzymes, along with their associated nickel transporters, storage reservoirs, and maturation enzymes have been best-studied in the gastric pathogen Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium which depends heavily on nickel. Molecular hydrogen utilization is associated with efficient host colonization by the Helicobacters, which include both gastric and liver pathogens. Translocation of a H. pylori carcinogenic toxin into host epithelial cells is powered by H2 use. The multiple [NiFe] hydrogenases of Salmonella enterica Typhimurium are important in host colonization, while ureases play important roles in both prokaryotic (Proteus mirabilis and Staphylococcus spp.) and eukaryotic (Cryptoccoccus genus) pathogens associated with urinary tract infections. Other Ni-requiring enzymes, such as Ni-acireductone dioxygenase (ARD), Ni-superoxide dismutase (SOD), and Ni-glyoxalase I (GloI) play important metabolic or detoxifying roles in other pathogens. Nickel-requiring enzymes are likely important for virulence of at least 40 prokaryotic and nine eukaryotic pathogenic species, as described herein. The potential for pathogenic roles of many new Ni-binding components exists, based on recent experimental data and on the key roles that Ni enzymes play in a diverse array of pathogens.
The Potential Associations of Pornography Use with Sexual Dysfunctions: An Integrative Literature Review of Observational Studies
Authors: Dwulit Aleksandra Diana , Rzymski Piotr
Published: June 2019

This paper reviews the associations between pornography use and sexual dysfunction based on evidence from observational studies. The existing data in this regard mostly derive from cross-sectional investigations and case reports. There is little if no evidence that pornography use may induce delayed ejaculation and erectile dysfunction, although longitudinal studies that control for confounding variables are required for a full assessment. The associations between pornography use and sexual desire may differ between women and men although the existing data is contradictory and causal relationships cannot be established. The strongest evidence is available for the relation of pornography use with decreased sexual satisfaction, although the results of prospective studies are inconsistent. The paper outlines future research prospects beneficial in understanding the nature of associations between pornography use and sexual dysfunctions in men and women.
The Outperformance Probability of Mutual Funds
Authors: Frahm Gabriel , Huber Ferdinand
Published: June 2019

We propose the outperformance probability as a new performance measure, which can be used in order to compare a strategy with a specified benchmark, and develop the basic statistical properties of its maximum-likelihood estimator in a Brownian-motion framework. The given results are used to investigate the question of whether mutual funds are able to beat the S&P 500 or the Russell 1000. Most mutual funds that are taken into consideration are, in fact, able to beat the market. We argue that one should refer to differential returns when comparing a strategy with a given benchmark and not compare both the strategy and the benchmark with the money-market account. This explains why mutual funds often appear to underperform the market, but this conclusion is fallacious.
Sectoral Analysis of Factors Influencing Dividend Policy: Case of an Emerging Financial Market
Authors: Pinto Geetanjali , Rastogi Shailesh
Published: June 2019

This study aims to determine whether a firm’s dividends are influenced by the sector to which it belongs. This paper also examines the explanatory factors for dividends across individual sectors in India. This longitudinal study uses balanced data consisting of companies listed on the National Stock Exchange (NSE) of India for 12 years—from 2006 to 2017. Pooled ordinary least squares (POLSs) and fixed effects panel models are used in our estimation. We find that size, profitability, and interest coverage ratios have a significant positive relation to dividend policy. Furthermore, business risk and debt reveal a significantly negative relation with dividends. The findings on profitability support the free cash flow hypothesis for India. However, we also found that Indian companies prefer to follow a stable dividend policy. As a result of this, even firms with higher growth opportunities and lower cash flows continue to pay dividends. We also find evidence that dividend policies vary significantly across industrial sectors in India. The results of this study can be used by financial managers and policymakers in order to make appropriate dividend decisions. They can also help investors make portfolio selection decisions based on sectoral dividend paying behavior.