bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Topographic Base Maps from Remote Sensing Data for Engineering Geomorphological Modelling: An Application on Coastal Mediterranean Landscape
Authors: Barbarella Maurizio , Cuomo Albina , Di Benedetto Alessandro , Fiani Margherita , Guida Domenico
Published: November 2019

Coastal landscapes are one of the most changeable areas of the earth’s surface. Given this spatial complexity and temporal variability, the construction of reference maps useful for geo-engineering is a challenge. In order to improve the performance of geomorphic models, reliable multiscale and multi-temporal base maps and Digital Elevation Models (DEM) are needed. The work presented in this paper addresses this issue using an inter-geo-disciplinary approach to optimize the processing of multisource and multi-temporal data and DEMs by using field surveys, conceptual model, and analytical computation on a test area. The data acquired with two surveying techniques were analyzed and compared: Aerial Laser Scanning (ALS) and photogrammetry from stereo pairs of High-Resolution Satellite Images (HRSI). To assess the reliability of the DEMs produced from point clouds, the residuals between the point cloud and the interpolated filtered surface were identified and analyzed statistically. In addition to the contour maps, some feature maps such as slope, planar, and profile curvature maps were produced and analyzed. The frequency distribution of the slope and curvature values were compared with the diffusion, advection, and stream power model, revealing a good agreement with the past and present geomorphic processes acting on the different parts of the study area. Moreover, the integrated geomatics–geomorphic analysis of the outliers’ map showed a good correspondence (more than 75%) between the identified outliers and some specific geomorphological features, such as micro-landforms, which are significant for erosive and gravity-driven mechanisms. The different distribution of the above singularities by different data sources allowed us to attribute their spatial model to the temporal variation of the topography and, consequently, to the geomorphic changes, rather than to the different accuracy. For monitoring purposes and risk mitigation activities, the methodology adopted seems to meet the requirements to make a digital mapping of the coast analyzed, characterized by a rapid evolution of the surface, and can be extended to other stretches of coast with similar characteristics.
Social Determinants of Health, the Family, and Children’s Personal Hygiene: A Comparative Study
Authors: Ramos-Morcillo Antonio Jesús , Moreno-Martínez Francisco José , Hernández Susarte Ana María , Hueso-Montoro César , Ruzafa-Martínez María
Published: November 2019

Habits of personal hygiene are mostly acquired during childhood, and are, therefore, influenced by one’s family. Poor hygiene habits are a risk factor for preventable disease and social rejection. Social Determinants of Health (SDH) consist of contextual factors, structural mechanisms, and the individual’s socioeconomic position, which, via intermediary determinants, result in inequities of health and well–being. Dysfunctional family situations may, therefore, be generated by an unequal distribution of factors determining SDH. Little attention has been paid to the influence of the family on personal hygiene and the perception of social rejection in children. We designed a study to examine differences in personal hygiene and in the perception of social rejection between children in reception centers and children living in a family setting. A validated questionnaire on children’s personal hygiene habits was completed by 51 children in reception centers and 454 children in normal families. Hygiene habits were more deficient among the children in reception centers than among the other children in all dimensions studied. Deficient hygiene habits were observed in the offspring of families affected by the main features of social inequality, who were more likely to perceive social rejection for this reason and less likely to consider their family as the greatest influence on their personal hygiene practices.
The State-of-the Art of Environmental Toxicogenomics: Challenges and Perspectives of “Omics” Approaches Directed to Toxicant Mixtures
Authors: Martins Carla , Dreij Kristian , Costa Pedro M.
Published: November 2019

The last decade witnessed extraordinary advances in “omics” methods, particularly transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomics, enabling toxicologists to integrate toxicokinetics and toxicodynamics with mechanistic insights on the mode-of-action of noxious chemicals, single or combined. The toxicology of mixtures is, nonetheless, a most challenging enterprise, especially for environmental toxicologists and ecotoxicologists, who invariably deal with chemical mixtures, many of which contain unknowns. Despite costs and demanding computations, the systems toxicology framework, of which “omics” is a major component, endeavors extracting adverse outcome pathways for complex mixtures. Still, the interplay between the multiple components of gene expression and cell metabolism tends to be overlooked. As an example, the proteome allocates DNA methyltransferases whose altered transcription or loss of function by action of chemicals can have a global impact on gene expression in the cell. On the other hand, chemical insult can produce reactive metabolites and radicals that can intercalate or bind to DNA as well as to enzymes and structural proteins, compromising their activity. These examples illustrate the importance of exploring multiple “omes” and the purpose of “omics” and multi-“omics” for building truly predictive models of hazard and risk. Here we will review the state-of-the-art of toxicogenomics highlighting successes, shortcomings and perspectives for next-generation environmental toxicologists.
Utilization of a Diet Optimization Model in Ensuring Adequate Intake among Pregnant Women in Selangor, Malaysia
Authors: Sawal Hamid Zeenat Begam , Rajikan Roslee , Elias Siti Masitah , Jamil Nor Aini
Published: November 2019

Achieving nutritional requirements for pregnant women in rural or suburban households while maintaining the intake of local and culture-specific foods can be difficult. Usage of a linear programming approach can effectively generate diet optimization models that incorporate local and culturally acceptable menus. This study aimed to determine whether a realistic and affordable diet that achieves recommended nutrient intakes for pregnant women could be formulated from locally available foods in Malaysia. A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the dietary intake of 78 pregnant women using a 24-h dietary recall and a 3-day food record. A market survey was also carried out to estimate the cost of raw foods that are frequently consumed. All linear programming analyses were done using Excel Solver to generate optimal dietary patterns. Our findings showed that the menus designed from diet optimization models using locally available foods would improve dietary adequacy for the seven food groups based on the Malaysian Dietary Guidelines 2010 (MDG 2010) and the 14 nutrients based on Recommended Nutrient Intake 2017 (RNI 2017) in pregnant women. However, inadequacies remained for iron and niacin, indicating that these nutrients may require supplementation.
Relationships between Physical Activity, Sedentary Behaviour and Cognitive Functions in Office Workers
Authors: Bojsen-Møller Emil , Boraxbekk Carl-Johan , Ekblom Örjan , Blom Victoria , Ekblom Maria M.
Published: November 2019

Increasing evidence from animal experiments suggests that physical activity (PA) promotes neuroplasticity and learning. For humans, most research on the relationship between PA, sedentary behaviour (SB), and cognitive function has relied on self-reported measures of behaviour. Office work is characterised by high durations of SB combined with high work demands. While previous studies have shown that fitter office workers outperform their less fit colleagues in cognitive tests, the importance of PA and SB remains unknown. This study investigated associations between objectively measured PA and SB, using hip-worn accelerometers, and cognitive functions in 334 office workers. Time spent in moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) was not associated with any cognitive outcome. However, time spent in SB tended to be positively associated with words recalled in free recall (β = 0.125). For the least fit participants, the average length of MVPA bouts was favourably related to Stroop performance (β = −0.211), while for the fitter individuals, a longer average length of MVPA bouts was related to worse recognition (β = −0.216). While our findings indicate that the length of MVPA bouts was associated with better Stroop performance in the least fit participants, our findings do not support the notion that more time spent in MVPA or less time in SB is associated with better cognitive function.
Validity and Reliability of a Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) to Assess Dietary Intake of Preschool Children
Authors: Noor Hafizah Yatiman , Ang Lee Choo , Yap Fendy , Nurul Najwa Wan , Cheah Whye Lian , Ruzita Abd Talib , Jumuddin Farra Aidah , Koh Denise , Lee Julia Ai Cheng , Essau Cecilia A. , Reeves Sue , Summerbell Carolyn , Leigh Gibson Edward , Poh Bee Koon
Published: November 2019

As there are few food frequency questionnaires (FFQ) to assess the dietary intake of preschool children, this study examined the validity and reliability of an FFQ for this purpose. A total of 210 preschoolers aged 4 to 6 years participated in the validation study, while a subsample of 66 participants joined the reliability study. The FFQ is modified from the ToyBox-study and South East Asian Nutrition Surveys (SEANUTS), and comprised 108 food items from 13 food groups. A three-day estimated dietary record (3DR) was used as reference and reliability was assessed through a second administration of the FFQ (FFQ2), four weeks after the first administration (FFQ1). For the validation study, Spearman’s correlation coefficients showed moderate to high correlations (p < 0.001) between FFQ and 3DR. Cross-classification of quartile analysis showed moderate agreement between the two methods. As for reliability, Spearman’s correlation coefficients showed moderate to high correlations (p < 0.001) between FFQ1 and FFQ2. Cronbach’s alpha values (0.708 to 0.824) and intraclass correlation coefficients (0.710 to 0.826) showed good agreement between repeated FFQs. The results suggest that the FFQ has acceptable validity and good reliability. Hence, the FFQ can be used to assess preschool children’s food intake.
Demographic and Lifestyle Factors and Memory in European Older People
Authors: Steffl Michal , Jandova Tereza , Dadova Klara , Holmerova Iva , Vitulli Piergiusto , Pierdomenico Sante D. , Pietrangelo Tiziana
Published: November 2019

Objectives: To investigate associations between demographic and lifestyle factors and memory performance in European people aged ≥60 years. Methods: Data from 23,641 people with a mean age of 70.2 (95 % CI 70.1–70.3) were analyzed and drawn from the fourth wave of the Survey of Health, Ageing, and Retirement in Europe (SHARE). Generalized linear models were carried out to estimate the associations for both men and women. Memory performance was tested using two word-list learning tests with immediate and delayed recall in SHARE. Results: age, severe limitations in physical activities, and any past alcohol problem were all negatively associated with memory performance. Contrarily, education level, higher nonalcoholic fluid intake, and engagement in sports activities more than once a week and in activities requiring a moderate level of energy were all positively associated with memory performance. Smoking showed a significant negative association only in the immediate recall test for both men and women together, whilst long-term illness showed association only in the delayed recall. Alcohol consumption was positively associated with memory performance in women, but in men, it depended on the drinking frequency. Conclusions: Demographic and lifestyle factors are associated with memory performance in the older population.
A Pilot Study of Five Types of Maximum Hand Strength among Manufacturing Industry Workers in Taiwan
Authors: Lo Victor Ei-Wen , Chiu Yi-Chen , Tu Hsin-Hung , Liu Chien-Wei , Yu Chi-Yuang
Published: November 2019

Background: The purpose of this study is to collect five types of maximum hand strength among workers in the manufacturing industry in Taiwan. Methods: This study is a cross sectional study with a stratified and convenient sample of workers on the production line in manufacturing industries in Central Taiwan. In total, we recruited 198 healthy subjects to participate in this study. Five types of hand strength were measured in both hands three times with 3 min rests between trials. Results: The strength of females for these five types of hand exertions were 52.0% to 67.6% of the strength of males (p < 0.001). For both genders, there was a main effect for the types of hand strength for the right hand (p < 0.001) and the left hand (p < 0.001). In general, the hand strength in U.S. and EU countries was 1.2 to 1.7 times greater than the strength among the three types of hand exertions in this study. Conclusion: These results can be used to evaluate the musculoskeletal burdens on the upper extremities in the manufacturing industry and could also be used for tool and job design and job modifications.
Disinfectant Activity of A Portable Ultraviolet C Equipment
Authors: Guridi Andrea , Sevillano Elena , de la Fuente Iñigo , Mateo Estibaliz , Eraso Elena , Quindós Guillermo
Published: November 2019

Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) can be caused by microorganisms present in common practice instruments generating major health problems in the hospital environment. The aim of this work was to evaluate the disinfection capacity of a portable ultraviolet C equipment (UV Sanitizer Corvent® -UVSC-) developed to disinfect different objects. For this purpose, six pathogens causing HAIs: Acinetobacter baumannii, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans, were inoculated on slides and discs of different biomaterials (borosilicate, polycarbonate, polyurethane, silicone, Teflon and titanium) and exposed to ultraviolet C radiation. UVSC disinfection was compared with ethanol and chlorhexidine antimicrobial activities following the standards EN14561 and EN14562. Disinfection, established as a reduction of five logarithms from the initial inoculum, was achieved with the UVSC at 120 s of exposure time, with and without the presence of organic matter. The disinfectant effect was observed against S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, E. coli, B. subtilis and C. albicans (reduction >99.999%). Disinfection was also achieved with 70% ethanol and 2% chlorhexidine. As conclusion, UVSC was effective disinfecting the most contaminated surfaces assayed, being a promising alternative for disinfecting hospital materials and inanimate objects that cannot be immersed in liquid biocides, reducing the risk of pathogen transmission.
Risk Profiling from the European Statistics on Accidents at Work (ESAW) Accidents′ Databases: A Case Study in Construction Sites
Authors: Lombardi Mara , Fargnoli Mario , Parise Giuseppe
Published: November 2019

The number of accidents and victims in the construction sector has not decreased significantly despite the increasingly stricter laws and regulations. The analysis of accidents, as well as their root causes and determinants can certainly contribute to the development of more effective preventive interventions. The present study proposes a methodology for the analysis and synthesis of data provided by accidents statistics with the goal of defining specific risk profiles based on the accidents determinants, their variables, and how they interact with one another in influencing the occurrence of an accident. For this purpose, a procedure capable of extracting this type of information from the European Statistics on Accidents at Work (ESAW) database was developed. In particular, data processing and aggregation are performed by means of the synergic use of the Matrix of Descriptors (MoD) and cluster analysis. To validate such a procedure, the analysis of fatalities due to electrical shocks was carried out. The results achieved allowed us to elicit valuable information for both safety managers and decision makers. The proposed methodology can facilitate a systemic analysis of accidents databases reducing the difficulties in managing reports and accident statistics.
Phytoremediation of Heavy Metal Pollution: A Bibliometric and Scientometric Analysis from 1989 to 2018
Authors: Li Chen , Ji Xiaohui , Luo Xuegang
Published: November 2019

This paper aims to evaluate the knowledge landscape of the phytoremediation of heavy metals (HMs) by constructing a series of scientific maps and exploring the research hotspots and trends of this field. This study presents a review of 6873 documents published about phytoremediation of HMs in the international context from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) (1989–2018). Two different processing software applications were used, CiteSpace and Bibliometrix. This research field is characterized by high interdisciplinarity and a rapid increase in the subject categories of engineering applications. The basic supporting categories mainly included “Environmental Sciences & Ecology”, “Plant Sciences”, and “Agriculture”. In addition, there has been a trend in recent years to focus on categories such as “Engineering, Multidisciplinary”, “Engineering, Chemical”, and “Green & Sustainable Science & Technology”. “Soil”, “hyperaccumulator”, “enrichment mechanism/process”, and “enhance technology” were found to be the main research hotspots. “Wastewater”, “field crops”, “genetically engineered microbes/plants”, and “agromining” may be the main research trends. Bibliometric and scientometric analysis are useful methods to qualitatively and quantitatively measure research hotspots and trends in phytoremediation of HM, and can be widely used to help new researchers to review the available research in a certain research field.
Crystal Structure of a GH3 β-Glucosidase from the Thermophilic Fungus Chaetomium thermophilum
Authors: Mohsin Imran , Poudel Nirmal , Li Duo-Chuan , Papageorgiou Anastassios C.
Published: November 2019

Beta-glucosidases (β-glucosidases) have attracted considerable attention in recent years for use in various biotechnological applications. They are also essential enzymes for lignocellulose degradation in biofuel production. However, cost-effective biomass conversion requires the use of highly efficient enzymes. Thus, the search for new enzymes as better alternatives of the currently available enzyme preparations is highly important. Thermophilic fungi are nowadays considered as a promising source of enzymes with improved stability. Here, the crystal structure of a family GH3 β-glucosidase from the thermophilic fungus Chaetomium thermophilum (CtBGL) was determined at a resolution of 2.99 Å. The structure showed the three-domain architecture found in other β-glucosidases with variations in loops and linker regions. The active site catalytic residues in CtBGL were identified as Asp287 (nucleophile) and Glu517 (acid/base). Structural comparison of CtBGL with Protein Data Bank (PDB)-deposited structures revealed variations among glycosylated Asn residues. The enzyme displayed moderate glycosylation compared to other GH3 family β-glucosidases with similar structure. A new glycosylation site at position Asn504 was identified in CtBGL. Moreover, comparison with respect to several thermostability parameters suggested that glycosylation and charged residues involved in electrostatic interactions may contribute to the stability of the enzyme at elevated temperatures. The reported CtBGL structure provides additional insights into the family GH3 enzymes and could offer new ideas for further improvements in β-glucosidases for more efficient use in biotechnological applications regarding cellulose degradation.
Genome-Wide Identification and Analysis of the NPR1-Like Gene Family in Bread Wheat and Its Relatives
Authors: Liu Xian , Liu Zhiguo , Niu Xinhui , Xu Qian , Yang Long
Published: November 2019

NONEXPRESSOR OF PATHOGENESIS-RELATED GENES 1 (NPR1), and its paralogues NPR3 and NPR4, are bona fide salicylic acid (SA) receptors and play critical regulatory roles in plant immunity. However, comprehensive identification and analysis of the NPR1-like gene family had not been conducted so far in bread wheat and its relatives. Here, a total of 17 NPR genes in Triticum aestivum, five NPR genes in Triticum urartu, 12 NPR genes in Triticum dicoccoides, and six NPR genes in Aegilops tauschii were identified using bioinformatics approaches. Protein properties of these putative NPR1-like genes were also described. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the 40 NPR1-like proteins, together with 40 NPR1-related proteins from other plant species, were clustered into three major clades. The TaNPR1-like genes belonging to the same Arabidopsis subfamilies shared similar exon-intron patterns and protein domain compositions, as well as conserved motifs and amino acid residues. The cis-regulatory elements related to SA were identified in the promoter regions of TaNPR1-like genes. The TaNPR1-like genes were intensively mapped on the chromosomes of homoeologous groups 3, 4, and 5, except TaNPR2-D. Chromosomal distribution and collinearity analysis of NPR1-like genes among bread wheat and its relatives revealed that the evolution of this gene family was more conservative following formation of hexaploid wheat. Transcriptome data analysis indicated that TaNPR1-like genes exhibited tissue/organ-specific expression patterns and some members were induced under biotic stress. These findings lay the foundation for further functional characterization of NPR1-like proteins in bread wheat and its relatives.
Plasma Levels of snoRNAs are Associated with Platelet Activation in Patients with Peripheral Artery Disease
Authors: Nossent Anne Yaël , Ektefaie Neda , Wojta Johann , Eichelberger Beate , Kopp Christoph , Panzer Simon , Gremmel Thomas
Published: November 2019

In addition to supervised walking therapy, antithrombotic therapy and the management of risk factors, the treatment of peripheral artery disease (PAD) is limited to endovascular and surgical interventions, i.e., angioplasty with stent implantation and bypass surgery, respectively. Both are associated with a high restenosis rate. Furthermore, patients with PAD often suffer atherothrombotic events like myocardial infarction, transient ischemic attacks or stroke. Small ribonucleic acids (RNAs) have proven reliable biomarkers because of their remarkable stability. Small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) guide modifications to small nuclear RNAs and ribosomal RNAs, enabling protein synthesis. In the current study, we measured four snoRNAs in 104 consecutive PAD patients who underwent elective infrainguinal angioplasty with stent implantation. We selected snoRNAs that showed significant overexpression in the plasma of end-stage PAD patients in a previous study. All four snoRNAs are transcribed from the 14q32 locus, which is strongly linked to human cardiovascular disease, including PAD and restenosis. We showed that the four selected 14q32 snoRNAs were abundantly expressed in the plasma of PAD patients. The plasma levels of these snoRNAs were not directly associated with target vessel restenosis, however, levels of SNORD113.2 and SNORD114.1 were strongly linked to platelet activation, which is an important determinant of long-term outcome, in PAD, and in cardiovascular disease in general.
Connexins-Based Hemichannels/Channels and Their Relationship with Inflammation, Seizures and Epilepsy
Authors: Medina-Ceja Laura , Salazar-Sánchez Juan C. , Ortega-Ibarra Jorge , Morales-Villagrán Alberto
Published: November 2019

Connexins (Cxs) are a family of 21 protein isoforms, eleven of which are expressed in the central nervous system, and they are found in neurons and glia. Cxs form hemichannels (connexons) and channels (gap junctions/electric synapses) that permit functional and metabolic coupling between neurons and astrocytes. Altered Cx expression and function is involved in inflammation and neurological diseases. Cxs-based hemichannels and channels have a relevance to seizures and epilepsy in two ways: First, this pathological condition increases the opening probability of hemichannels in glial cells to enable gliotransmitter release, sustaining the inflammatory process and exacerbating seizure generation and epileptogenesis, and second, the opening of channels favors excitability and synchronization through coupled neurons. These biological events highlight the global pathological mechanism of epilepsy, and the therapeutic potential of Cxs-based hemichannels and channels. Therefore, this review describes the role of Cxs in neuroinflammation and epilepsy and examines how the blocking of channels and hemichannels may be therapeutic targets of anti-convulsive and anti-epileptic treatments.
Biomarkers of Vascular Injury and Type 2 Diabetes: A Prospective Study, Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Pletsch-Borba Laura , Watzinger Cora , Turzanski Fortner Renée , Katzke Verena , Schwingshackl Lukas , Sowah Solomon A. , Hüsing Anika , Johnson Theron , Groß Marie-Luise , González Maldonado Sandra , Hoffmeister Michael , Bugert Peter , Kaaks Rudolf , Grafetstätter Mirja , Kühn Tilman
Published: November 2019

Data on biomarkers of vascular injury and type 2 diabetes (T2D) risk from prospective studies are lacking. We evaluated seven biomarkers of vascular injury in relation to T2D. Additionally, a meta-analysis was performed. From the EPIC–Heidelberg cohort, 2224 participants were followed-up from baseline for 16 (median) years. E-Selectin, P-Selectin, intercellular adhesion molecule 3 (ICAM3), thrombomodulin, thrombopoietin, glycoprotein IIb/IIIa and fibrinogen levels were measured in baseline blood samples. The systematic review and meta-analysis included prospective studies identified through MEDLINE and Web of Science that investigated the association between mentioned biomarkers and T2D. The study population included 55% women, median age was 50 years, and 163 developed T2D. ICAM3 was associated with lower T2D risk (fully adjusted HRhighest vs. lowest tertile 0.62 (95% CI: 0.43, 0.91)), but no other studies on ICAM3 were identified. Overall, fifteen studies were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis (6,171 cases). E-Selectin was associated with higher T2D risk HRper SD: 1.34 (95% CI: 1.16, 1.54; I2 = 63%, n = 9 studies), while thrombomodulin was associated with lower risk HRper SD: 0.82 (95% CI: 0.71, 0.95; I2 = 0%, n = 2 studies). In the EPIC–Heidelberg, ICAM3 was associated with lower T2D risk. The meta-analysis showed a consistent positive association between E-Selectin and T2D. It was also suggestive of an inverse association between thrombomodulin and T2D, although further studies are needed to corroborate this finding.
Study on Surface Longitudinal Crack Formation of Typical Hypoeutectoid Steel Produced on a Caster with Billet and Slab
Authors: Xing Lidong , Wang Min , Guo Jianlong , Zhang Zefeng , Zeng Fanzheng , Chen Botao , Bao Yanping
Published: November 2019

This paper investigates the formation mechanism of typical hypoeutectoid steel with longitudinal cracks produced on a caster with billet and slab. It was found that the microstructure of the proeutectoid ferrite is the most critical factor affecting the longitudinal crack. The formation conditions of the proeutectoid ferrite and the reasonable control direction were determined through experiments and calculations. High-temperature tensile experiments revealed that enhanced cooling did not cause additional cracks. Therefore, the final plan was to reduce the formation of proeutectoid ferrite by strengthening the cooling process. As a result, the optimized surface temperature quickly passed the phase transition region of the proeutectoid ferrite and no cracks were found in the optimized billet.
Effects of Bridge-Shaped Microchannel Geometry on the Performance of a Micro Laminar Flow Fuel Cell
Authors: Tanveer Muhammad , Kim Kwang-Yong
Published: November 2019

A laminar flow micro fuel cell comprising of bridge-shaped microchannel is investigated to find out the effects of the cross-section shape of the microchannel on the performance. A parametric study is performed by varying the heights and widths of the channel and bridge shape. Nine different microchannel cross-section shapes are evaluated to find effective microchannel cross-sections by combining three bridge shapes with three channel shapes. A three-dimensional fully coupled numerical model is used to calculate the fuel cell’s performance. Navier-Stokes, convection and diffusion, and Butler-Volmer equations are implemented using the numerical model. A narrow channel with a wide bridge shape shows the best performance among the tested nine cross-sectional shapes, which is increased by about 78% compared to the square channel with the square bridge shape.
Simultaneous Determination of Six Compounds in Destructive Distillation Extracts of Hawthorn Seed by GC-MS and Evaluation of Their Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Rao Hongyu , Li Peibo , Wu Hao , Liu Chong , Peng Wei , Su Weiwei
Published: November 2019

Hawthorn seed can be used to produce various bioactive compounds through destructive distillation. In this study, an accurate and feasible analytical method based on a gas chromatography mass spectrometer (GC-MS) was developed for simultaneous determination of six major compounds (contributing to more than 3% in total peak area) in destructive distillation extracts of hawthorn seed collected at different temperatures ranging from 150 to 270 °C. Then, a broth microdilution method coupled with grey correlation analysis was engaged in the evaluation of their antimicrobial activities and the screening of primarily active compounds. Results indicate that the extract collected from 211 to 230 °C had the highest content of six major compounds (furfural, 2-methoxyphenol, 2-methoxy-4-methylphenol, 4-ethyl-2-methoxyphenol, 2,6-dimethoxyphenol, and 5-tertbutylpyrogallol) and the strongest antibacterial activity. Besides, 2,6-dimethoxyphenol was found to be a potential compound in inhibiting the growth of vaginitis pathogens. This study provided an optimum temperature for the destructive distillation of hawthorn seed, reducing the waste of energy, and saving the cost of production in the hawthorn industry.
Grape Berry Flavonoid Responses to High Bunch Temperatures Post Véraison: Effect of Intensity and Duration of Exposure
Authors: Gouot Julia C. , Smith Jason P. , Holzapfel Bruno P. , Barril Celia
Published: November 2019

Climate models predict an increase in the frequency and duration of heatwaves with an increase in intensity already strongly evident worldwide. The aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of two heatwave-related parameters (intensity and duration) during berry ripening and identify a threshold for berry survival and flavonoid accumulation. A Doehlert experimental design was used to test three temperature intensities (maxima of 35, 46, and 54 °C) and five durations (3 to 39 h), with treatments applied at the bunch level shortly after véraison. Berry skin and seeds were analysed by liquid chromatography-triple quadrupole-mass spectrometry (LC-QqQ-MS) for flavonoids (flavonols, anthocyanins, free flavan-3-ols, and tannins). Berries exposed to 46 °C showed little difference compared to 35 °C. However, berries reaching temperatures around 54 °C were completely desiccated, and all flavonoids were significantly decreased except for skin flavonols on a per berry basis and seed tannins in most cases. Some compounds, such as dihydroxylated flavonoids and galloylated flavan-3-ols (free and polymerised), were in higher proportion in damaged berries suggesting they were less degraded or more synthesised upon heating. Overall, irreversible berry damages and substantial compositional changes were observed and the berry survival threshold was estimated at around 50–53 °C for mid-ripe Shiraz berries, regardless of the duration of exposure.
Plant-Mediated Enantioselective Transformation of Indan-1-one and Indan-1-ol. Part 2
Authors: Mączka Wanda , Wińska Katarzyna , Grabarczyk Małgorzata , Galek Renata
Published: November 2019

The main purpose of this publication was to obtain the S-enantiomer of indan-1-ol with high enantiomeric excess and satisfactory yield. In our research, we used carrot callus cultures (Daucus carota L.), whereby the enzymatic system reduced indan-1-one and oxidized indan-1-ol. During the reaction of reduction, after five days, we received over 50% conversion, with the enantiomeric excess of the formed S-alcohol above 99%. In turn, during the oxidation of racemic indan-1-ol after 15 days, 36.7% of alcohol with an enantiomeric excess 57.4% S(+) remained in the reaction mixture. In addition, our research confirmed that the reactions of reduction and oxidation are competing reactions during the transformation of indan-1-ol and indan-1-one in carrot callus cultures.
Nutritional Gaps and Supplementation in the First 1000 Days
Authors: Beluska-Turkan Katrina , Korczak Renee , Hartell Beth , Moskal Kristin , Maukonen Johanna , Alexander Diane E. , Salem Norman , Harkness Laura , Ayad Wafaa , Szaro Jacalyn , Zhang Kelly , Siriwardhana Nalin
Published: November 2019

Optimized nutrition during the first 1000 days (from conception through the 2nd birthday) is critical for healthy development and a healthy life for the newborn. Pregnancy and the postpartum period are accompanied by physiological changes, increased energy needs, and changing requirements in the nutrients critical for optimal growth and development. Infants and toddlers also experience physiological changes and have specific nutritional needs. Food and nutrition experts can provide women of childbearing age with adequate dietary advice to optimize nutrition, as well as guidance on selecting appropriate dietary supplements. Considering the approaching 2020–2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) will be making specific recommendations for children, it is important to provide accurate scientific information to support health influencers in the field of nutrition. The purpose of this review is to summarize the nutrition and supplementation literature for the first 1000 days; to highlight nutritional and knowledge gaps; and to educate nutrition influencers to provide thoughtful guidance to mothers and families. Optimal nutrition during pregnancy through early childhood is critical for supporting a healthy life. Nutrition influencers, such as dietitians, obstetricians/gynecologists, and other relevant health professionals, should continue guiding supplement and food intake and work closely with expectant families and nutrition gatekeepers.
Decrease of miR-19b-3p in Brain Microvascular Endothelial Cells Attenuates Meningitic Escherichia coli-Induced Neuroinflammation via TNFAIP3-Mediated NF-κB Inhibition
Authors: Amjad Nouman , Yang Ruicheng , Li Liang , Fu Jiyang , Yang Bo , Xu Bojie , Tan Chen , Chen Huanchun , Wang Xiangru
Published: November 2019

Meningitic Escherichia coli can traverse the host’s blood–brain barrier (BBB) and induce severe neuroinflammatory damage to the central nervous system (CNS). During this process, the host needs to reasonably balance the battle between bacteria and brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs) to minimize inflammatory damage, but this quenching of neuroinflammatory responses at the BBB is unclear. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are widely recognized as key negative regulators in many pathophysiological processes, including inflammatory responses. Our previous transcriptome sequencing revealed numbers of differential miRNAs in BMECs upon meningitic E. coli infection; we next sought to explore whether and how these miRNAs worked to modulate neuroinflammatory responses at meningitic E. coli entry of the BBB. Here, we demonstrated in vivo and in vitro that meningitic E. coli infection of BMECs significantly downregulated miR-19b-3p, which led to attenuated production of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines via increasing the expression of TNFAIP3, a negative regulator of NF-κB signaling. Moreover, in vivo injection of miR-19b-3p mimics during meningitic E. coli challenge further aggravated the inflammatory damage to mice brains. These in vivo and in vitro findings indicate a novel quenching mechanism of the host by attenuating miR-19b-3p/TNFAIP3/NF-κB signaling in BMECs in response to meningitic E. coli, thus preventing CNS from further neuroinflammatory damage.
Acute Toxicity of the Hydroethanolic Extract of the Flowers of Acmella oleracea L. in Zebrafish (Danio rerio): Behavioral and Histopathological Studies
Authors: Custodio de Souza Gisele , Dias Ribeiro da Silva Ianna , Duarte Viana Muller , Costa de Melo Nayara , Sánchez-Ortiz Brenda , Maia Rebelo de Oliveira Monaliza , Ramos Barbosa Wagner , Maciel Ferreira Irlon , Tavares Carvalho José
Published: November 2019

Hydroethanolic preparations of the botanical species Acmella oleracea L. are used in the north of Brazil for the treatment of various diseases. However, few studies have been conducted to evaluate the toxicity of this species. The objective of this study was to evaluate the acute toxicity of the hydroethanolic extract of A. oleracea L. (EHFAo) flowers in zebrafish by immersion and oral administration. The extract was analyzed by ultra-performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (UPLC–MS). EHFAo was administered orally (44.457, 88.915, 199.94, 281.83, and 448.81 mg/kg) and by immersion (250, 300, 350, 400, and 450 µg/L). Behavioral and histopathological analysis of gills, liver, intestine, and kidney were performed. The presence of (2E,6Z,8E)-N-isobutyl-2,6,8-decatrienamide (spilanthol) in EHFAo was identified by ultra-high-re.solution liquid chromatography–electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (UHPLC–ESI-MS). Treatment with EHFAo caused significant behavioral changes and death. The calculated median lethal dose (LD50) was 148.42 mg/kg, and the calculated median lethal concentration (LC50) was 320 μg/L. In the histopathological study, it was observed that upon oral treatment, the tissue alterations that compromised the normal functioning of the organism occurred with EHFAo doses of 88.915, 199.53, and 281.83 mg/kg, the intestine being the most affected. When the treatment was performed by immersion, the most toxic EHFAo concentrations according to the histopathological evaluation were 300, 350, and 400 μg/L, with the most affected organ being the gills. Finally, EHFAo in this study was shown to be more toxic to the liver, intestine, and kidneys when administered orally and to gills, liver, and kidneys when administered by immersion in water. Therefore, considering the results obtained and the chemical characteristics of the main phytochemical marker of EHFAo, spilanthol, it can be suggested that, depending on the dose, this compound can lead to histopathological damages in the organs highlighted in this study.
Fodder for Despair, Masquerading as Hope: Diagnosing the Postures of Hope(lessness) at the End of Life
Authors: Moyse Ashley
Published: November 2019

Hope is needed for persons confronting the limits of human life, antagonised by the threats of death. It is needed also for those health and medical professionals constrained by the institution of medicine, determined by market metaphors and instrumental reasoning. Yet, despair can masquerade as hope for such persons when functional hoping for particular outcomes or aims proves futile and aimless. The following will examine such masquerades, while giving attention to particular expressions of autonomy, which persist as fodder for despair in our late modern milieu. The late classical account of Hercules and his death, as well as contemporary reasons for soliciting medical assistance in dying, will focus on the diagnostics of despair, while a Christian account practicing presence, and of hope as a concrete posture enfleshed by habits of patience, among other virtues, will point toward counter-narratives that might sustain persons in times of crisis and enable persons’ flourishing as human beings, even unto death.
Sequential PCA-based Classification of Mediterranean Forest Plants using Airborne Hyperspectral Remote Sensing
Authors: Dadon Alon , Mandelmilch Moshe , Ben-Dor Eyal , Sheffer Efrat
Published: November 2019

In recent years, hyperspectral remote sensing (HRS) has become common practice for remote analyses of the physiognomy and composition of forests. Supervised classification is often used for this purpose, but demands intensive sampling and analyses, whereas unsupervised classification often requires information retrieval out of the large HRS datasets, thereby not realizing the full potential of the technology. An improved principal component analysis-based classification (PCABC) scheme is presented and intended to provide accurate and sequential image-based unsupervised classification of Mediterranean forest species. In this study, unsupervised classification and reduction of data size are performed simultaneously by applying binary sequential thresholding to principal components, each time on a spatially reduced subscene that includes the entire spectral range. The methodology was tested on HRS data acquired by the airborne AisaFENIX HRS sensor over a Mediterranean forest in Mount Horshan, Israel. A comprehensive field-validation survey was performed, sampling 257 randomly selected individual plants. The PCABC provided highly improved results compared to the traditional unsupervised classification methodologies, reaching an overall accuracy of 91%. The presented approach may contribute to improved monitoring, management, and conservation of Mediterranean and similar forests.
River Discharge Simulation in the High Andes of Southern Ecuador Using High-Resolution Radar Observations and Meteorological Station Data
Authors: Mejía-Veintimilla Diego , Ochoa-Cueva Pablo , Samaniego-Rojas Natalia , Félix Ricardo , Arteaga Juan , Crespo Patricio , Oñate-Valdivieso Fernando , Fries Andreas
Published: November 2019

The prediction of river discharge using hydrological models (HMs) is of utmost importance, especially in basins that provide drinking water or serve as recreation areas, to mitigate damage to civil structures and to prevent the loss of human lives. Therefore, different HMs must be tested to determine their accuracy and usefulness as early warning tools, especially for extreme precipitation events. This study simulated the river discharge in an Andean watershed, for which the distributed HM Runoff Prediction Model (RPM) and the semi-distributed HM Hydrologic Modelling System (HEC-HMS) were applied. As precipitation input data for the RPM model, high-resolution radar observations were used, whereas the HEC-HMS model used the available meteorological station data. The obtained simulations were compared to measured discharges at the outlet of the watershed. The results highlighted the advantages of distributed HM (RPM) in combination with high-resolution radar images, which estimated accurately the discharges in magnitude and time. The statistical analysis showed good to very good accordance between observed and simulated discharge for the RPM model (R2: 0.85–0.92; NSE: 0.77–0.82), whereas for the HEC-HMS model accuracies were lower (R2: 0.68–0.86; NSE: 0.26–0.78). This was not only due to the application of means values for the watershed (HEC-HMS), but also to limited rain gauge information. Generally, station network density in tropical mountain regions is poor, for which reason the high spatiotemporal precipitation variability cannot be detected. For hydrological simulation and forecasting flash floods, as well as for environmental investigations and water resource management, meteorological radars are the better choice. The greater availability of cost-effective systems at the present time also reduces implementation and maintenance costs of dense meteorological station networks.
Analysis of Long-Term Moon-Based Observation Characteristics for Arctic and Antarctic
Authors: Sui Yue , Guo Huadong , Liu Guang , Ren Yuanzhen
Published: November 2019

The Antarctic and Arctic have always been critical areas of earth science research and are sensitive to global climate change. Global climate change exhibits diversity characteristics on both temporal and spatial scales. Since the Moon-based earth observation platform could provide large-scale, multi-angle, and long-term measurements complementary to the satellite-based Earth observation data, it is necessary to study the observation characteristics of this new platform. With deepening understanding of Moon-based observations, we have seen its good observation ability in the middle and low latitudes of the Earth’s surface, but for polar regions, we need to further study the observation characteristics of this platform. Based on the above objectives, we used the Moon-based Earth observation geometric model to quantify the geometric relationship between the Sun, Moon, and Earth. Assuming the sensor is at the center of the nearside of the Moon, the coverage characteristics of the earth feature points are counted. The observation intervals, access frequency, and the angle information of each point during 100 years were obtained, and the variation rule was analyzed. The research showed that the lunar platform could carry out ideal observations for the polar regions. For the North and South poles, a continuous observation duration of 14.5 days could be obtained, and as the latitude decreased, the duration time was reduced to less than one day at the latitude of 65° in each hemisphere. The dominant observation time of the North Pole is concentrated from mid-March to mid-September, and for the South Pole, it is the rest of the year, and as the latitude decreases, it extends outward from both sides. The annual coverage time and frequency will change with the relationship between the Moon and the Earth. This study also proves that the Moon-based observation has multi-angle observation advantages for the Arctic and the Antarctic areas, which can help better understand large-scale geoscientific phenomena. The above findings indicate that the Moon-based observation can be applied as a new type of remote sensing technology to the observation field of the Earth’s polar regions.
Time-Domain Data Fusion Using Weighted Evidence and Dempster–Shafer Combination Rule: Application in Object Classification
Authors: Khan Md Nazmuzzaman , Anwar Sohel
Published: November 2019

To apply data fusion in time-domain based on Dempster–Shafer (DS) combination rule, an 8-step algorithm with novel entropy function is proposed. The 8-step algorithm is applied to time-domain to achieve the sequential combination of time-domain data. Simulation results showed that this method is successful in capturing the changes (dynamic behavior) in time-domain object classification. This method also showed better anti-disturbing ability and transition property compared to other methods available in the literature. As an example, a convolution neural network (CNN) is trained to classify three different types of weeds. Precision and recall from confusion matrix of the CNN are used to update basic probability assignment (BPA) which captures the classification uncertainty. Real data of classified weeds from a single sensor is used test time-domain data fusion. The proposed method is successful in filtering noise (reduce sudden changes—smoother curves) and fusing conflicting information from the video feed. Performance of the algorithm can be adjusted between robustness and fast-response using a tuning parameter which is number of time-steps( t s ).