bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hybrid Translation with Classification: Revisiting Rule-Based and Neural Machine Translation
Authors: Huang Jin-Xia , Lee Kyung-Soon , Kim Young-Kil
Published: January 2020

This paper proposes a hybrid machine-translation system that combines neural machine translation with well-developed rule-based machine translation to utilize the stability of the latter to compensate for the inadequacy of neural machine translation in rare-resource domains. A classifier is introduced to predict which translation from the two systems is more reliable. We explore a set of features that reflect the reliability of translation and its process, and training data is automatically expanded with a small, human-labeled dataset to solve the insufficient-data problem. A series of experiments shows that the hybrid system’s translation accuracy is improved, especially in out-of-domain translations, and classification accuracy is greatly improved when using the proposed features and the automatically constructed training set. A comparison between feature- and text-based classification is also performed, and the results show that the feature-based model achieves better classification accuracy, even when compared to neural network text classifiers.
Correction: Woo, J.; et al. Estimating the Information Source under Decaying Diffusion Rates. Electronics 2019, 8, 1384
Authors: Woo Jiin , Choi Jaeyoung
Published: January 2020

The reason why we, the authors, want to make a change is that this paper was partially supported by the funding of a research project at Honam University [...]
Measurements Based Analysis of the Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell Operation in Transient State and Power of Own Needs
Authors: Wilk Andrzej , Węcel Daniel
Published: January 2020

Currently, fuel cells are increasingly used in industrial installations, means of transport, and household applications as a source of electricity and heat. The paper presents the results of experimental tests of a Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) at variable load, which characterizes the cell’s operation in real installations. A detailed analysis of the power needed for operation fuel cell auxiliary devices (own needs power) was carried out. An analysis of net and gross efficiency was carried out in various operating conditions of the device. The measurements made show changes in the performance of the fuel cell during step changing or smooth changing of an electric load. Load was carried out as a change in the current or a change in the resistance of the receiver. The analysis covered the times of reaching steady states and the efficiency of the fuel cell system taking into account auxiliary devices. In the final part of the article, an analysis was made of the influence of the fuel cell duration of use on obtained parameters. The analysis of the measurement results will allow determination of the possibility of using fuel cells in installations with a rapidly changing load profile and indicate possible solutions to improve the performance of the installation.
International Trade Disputes over Renewable Energy—the Case of the Solar Photovoltaic Sector
Authors: Hajdukiewicz Agnieszka , Pera Bożena
Published: January 2020

The development of the renewable energy industry is a priority of economic policies in many countries, since it is viewed as one of the key growth sectors in the economy, playing also a very important role in mitigating climate change. At the international level, renewable energy is an issue of international cooperation but also an area of high trade tensions between countries. The main goal of this paper is to examine the nature and sources of recent trade disputes in the solar photovoltaic sector, which is the most dynamically growing sector in the green energy industry. In particular, the paper explores the links between the contemporary trade disputes and modern protectionism and between protectionist policies and practices and the export competitiveness in the growing sector of the economy. To achieve the aim of the study we explore in detail the WTO trade disputes over photovoltaic (PV) products, which occurred in the years 2007–2018. The products covered by the analysis were solar modules and cells classified under the HS code 854140. In our research we also used measures of descriptive statistics, hierarchical cluster analysis and revealed comparative advantage indexes. Our key results demonstrate the existence of links between protectionist policy causing trade conflicts and the export competitiveness. The research has also allowed us to identify problems of future studies concerning the association between trade protectionism and global value chains in the solar energy sector.
Analysis of the Theoretical Performance of the Wind-Driven Pulverizing Aerator in the Conditions of Góreckie Lake—Maximum Wind Speed Method
Authors: Osuch Ewa , Osuch Andrzej , Rybacki Piotr , Przybylak Andrzej
Published: January 2020

The eutrophication of surface waters is a natural process; however, anthropogenic activities significantly accelerate degradation processes. Most lakes in Poland and in the world belong to the poor and unsatisfactory water quality class. It is therefore necessary to limit negative anthropogenic impacts and introduce restoration methods, in particular those that are safe for the aquatic ecosystem. One of these is a pulverizing aeration Podsiadłowski method that uses only wind energy. The method allows for the moderate oxygenation of hypolimnion water, which maintains the oxygen conditions in the overlying water zone in the range of 0–1 mg O2·dm-1. The purpose of the work was to develop a new method of determining the efficiency of the aerator pulverization unit in the windy conditions of the lake. The method consists in determining the volumetric flow rates of water in the aerator pulverization unit, based on maximum hourly wind speeds. The pulverization efficiency in the conditions of Góreckie Lake was determined based on 6600 maximum hourly wind speeds in 2018. Based on the determined model, the theoretical performance of the machine was calculated, which in the conditions of Góreckie Lake in 2018 amounted to less than 79,000 m3 per year (nine months of the effective aerator operation).
Modeling of a Combined Cycle Gas Turbine Integrated with an Adsorption Chiller
Authors: Sztekler Karol , Kalawa Wojciech , Mika Lukasz , Krzywanski Jaroslaw , Grabowska Karolina , Sosnowski Marcin , Nowak Wojciech , Siwek Tomasz , Bieniek Artur
Published: January 2020

Forecasts to 2030 indicate that demand for electricity will increase from 2% to 3% per year, and due to the observed high rate of development of the world economy, energy demand will continue to increase. More efficient use of primary energy has influence on reduction emissions and consumption of fuel. Besides, reducing the amount of fuel burned, it reveals a beneficial effect on the environment. Since extraction-back pressure turbines have some limitations, including the restriction of electricity production due to limited heat consumption in summer. The paper discusses the possibilities of integrating the adsorption aggregate with a combined cycle gas turbine and its impact on the operation of all devices. Simulations are performed on Sim tech IPSEPro software. The obtained results confirm that the adsorption aggregate, using a low grade of thermal energy, does not affect the operation of the gas and steam cycle and allows the production of electricity at a constant level. The calculated chemical fuel energy utilisation factor was 85.7% in cogeneration and 75.6% in trigeneration. These factors indicated a reduced utilisation of chemical fuel energy; however, this reduction is caused by a lower COP for adsorption chillers. Besides, the adsorption aggregate additionally generates chilled water for air conditioning or other technological processes, which stands for an added value of the innovative concept proposed in the paper.
Performance Optimization LoRa Network by Artificial Bee Colony Algorithm to Determination of the Load Profiles in Dwellings
Authors: Cano-Ortega A. , Sánchez-Sutil F.
Published: January 2020

This paper presents a system to improve the performance of the Long Range (LoRa) network using an algorithm derived from the artificial bee colony (ABC), which obtains a minimum packet lost rate (PLR) in the LoRa network and allows to more accurately determine load profiles of dwellings, with smaller a time measurement and less data transmission. The developed algorithm calculates the configuration parameters of the LoRa network, monitoring in real time the data traffic, and is implemented in gateway LoRa network monitor (GLNM). Intelligent measurement equipment has been developed to determine the dwelling load profiles. This energy measurement device for dwelling (EMDD) measures the variables and consumption of electricity in each home with measurement times that can be configured. This research also develops the GLNM gateway, which monitors and receives data from the EMDDs installed and uploads them to the cloud using Firebase. This developed system allows to perform demand forecasting studies, analysis of home consumption, optimization of electricity tariffs, etc., applied to smart grids.
Mechanism of Structural Damage in Low Permeability Coal Material of Coalbed Methane Reservoir under Cyclic Cold Loading
Authors: Li Hewan , Zuo Jianping , Wang Laigui , Li Pengfei , Xu Xiaowei
Published: January 2020

The pore and fracture structure of coal is the main factor that affects the storage and seepage capacity of coalbed methane. The damage of coal structure can improve the gas permeability of coalbed methane. A coal sample with a drilled hole was kept inside of a custom-designed device to supply confining pressure to the coal sample. Liquid nitrogen was injected into the drilled hole of the coal sample to apply cyclic cold loading. Confining pressures varying from 0~7 MPa to the coal sample were applied to explore the relationship between the structural damage and confining pressure. The structural damage rules of coal samples under different confining pressure were revealed. The results showed that: (1) The structural damage degree of the coal sample increases with the increase of confining pressure; (2) The coal sample was broken after three cycles of cold loading under 7 MPa confining pressure; (3) Without confining pressure, the coal sample is more likely to be damaged or even destroyed by cold liquid nitrogen. (4) The fracture extends along the stratification direction of coal samples, which is significant for coal samples with original fractures, but not obvious for the coal sample without fracture. The research results provide a new method and theoretical basis for permeability improvement of the coal seam.
Development and Implementation of Solar Assisted Desiccant Cooling Technology in Developing Countries: A Case of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Rehman Shafiqur , M. Rafique Muhammad , Alhems Luai M. , Alam Md. Mahbub
Published: January 2020

This paper presents a comprehensive overview of the potential and feasibility of using solar thermal cooling systems in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). The performance of a desiccant cooling system has been determined based on climatic data of 32 cities spread all over the territory of the country. The investigation has been carried out keeping in view the high energy consumption for cooling applications in the country. The analysis has been done using the overall performance of the system, sensible energy ratio, and cooling and regeneration loads. The main objective of this study is to encourage the implementation of solar thermal cooling systems in the country for the development of sustainable buildings. The economic analysis shows that thermal cooling technology can reduce the cost of cooling units, remarkably. Furthermore, the utilization of the proposed system will decrease the dependence on primary energy resources. The saving factor of the proposed system with 1 ton capacity in comparison to the conventional vapor compression unit is found to be 34.6%. The present study also recommends that the government subsidies and incentives can further improve the development and utilization of solar air conditioning technology in developing countries.
Tuning Techniques for Piezoelectric and Electromagnetic Vibration Energy Harvesters
Authors: Costanzo Luigi , Vitelli Massimo
Published: January 2020

This paper is focused on resonant vibration energy harvesters (RVEHs). In applications involving RVEHs the maximization of the extraction of power is of fundamental importance and a very crucial aspect of such a task is represented by the optimization of the mechanical resonance frequency. Mechanical tuning techniques (MTTs) are those techniques allowing the regulation of the value of RVEHs mechanical resonance frequency in order to make it coincident with the vibration frequency. A very great number of MTTs has been proposed in the literature and this paper is aimed at reviewing, classifying and comparing the main of them. In particular, some important classification criteria and indicators are defined and are used to put in evidence the differences existing among the various MTTs and to allow the reader an easy comparison of their performance. Finally, the open issues concerning MTTs for RVEHs are identified and discussed.
Separation-Independent Wearable 6.78 MHz Near-Field Radiative Wireless Power Transfer using Electrically Small Embroidered Textile Coils
Authors: Wagih Mahmoud , Komolafe Abiodun , Zaghari Bahareh
Published: January 2020

Achieving a wireless power transfer (WPT) link insensitive to separation is a key challenge to achieving power autonomy through wireless-powering and wireless energy harvesting over a longer range. While coupled WPT has been widely used for near-field high-efficiency WPT applications, the efficiency of the WPT link is highly sensitive to separation and alignment, making it unsuitable for mobile systems with unknown or loose coupling such as wearables. On the other hand, while ultra-high frequency (UHF) and microwave uncoupled radiative WPT (0.3–3 GHz) enables meters-long separation between the transmitter and the receivers, the end-to-end efficiency of the WPT link is adversely limited by the propagation losses. This work proposes radiative WPT, in the 6.78 MHz license-free band, as a hybrid solution to separation-independent WPT, thus mitigating the losses associated with coil separation. Resonant electrically small antennas were fabricated using embroidered textile coils and tuned using L-matching networks, for wearable WPT. The antenna’s efficiency and near-fields have been evaluated numerically and experimentally. The proposed WPT link achieves a stable forward transmission of S 21 > − 17 dB and S 21 > − 28 dB, independent of coil separation on the XZ and XY planes respectively, in a 27 m 3 volume space. The presented approach demonstrates the highest WPT link efficiency at more than 1-m separation and promises higher end-to-end efficiency compared to UHF WPT.
Saccharomyces arboricola and Its Hybrids’ Propensity for Sake Production: Interspecific Hybrids Reveal Increased Fermentation Abilities and a Mosaic Metabolic Profile
Authors: Winans Matthew J. , Yamamoto Yuki , Fujimaru Yuki , Kusaba Yuki , Gallagher Jennifer E. G. , Kitagaki Hiroshi
Published: January 2020

The use of interspecific hybrids during the industrial fermentation process has been well established, positioning the frontier of advancement in brewing to capitalize on the potential of Saccharomyces hybridization. Interspecific yeast hybrids used in modern monoculture inoculations benefit from a wide range of volatile metabolites that broaden the organoleptic complexity. This is the first report of sake brewing by Saccharomyces arboricola and its hybrids. S. arboricola x S. cerevisiae direct-mating generated cryotolerant interspecific hybrids which increased yields of ethanol and ethyl hexanoate compared to parental strains, important flavor attributes of fine Japanese ginjo sake rice wine. Hierarchical clustering heatmapping with principal component analysis for metabolic profiling was used in finding low levels of endogenous amino/organic acids clustered S. arboricola apart from the S. cerevisiae industrial strains. In sake fermentations, hybrid strains showed a mosaic profile of parental strains, while metabolic analysis suggested S. arboricola had a lower amino acid net uptake than S. cerevisiae. Additionally, this research found an increase in ethanolic fermentation from pyruvate and increased sulfur metabolism. Together, these results suggest S. arboricola is poised for in-depth metabolomic exploration in sake fermentation.
Expression Analysis of XTH in Stem Swelling of Stem Mustard and Selection of Reference Genes
Authors: Li Mengyao , Xie Fangjie , He Qi , Li Jie , Liu Jiali , Sun Bo , Luo Ya , Zhang Yong , Chen Qing , Zhang Fen , Gong Ronggao , Wang Yan , Wang Xiaorong , Tang Haoru
Published: January 2020

Accurate analysis of gene expression requires selection of appropriate reference genes. In this study, we report analysis of eight candidate reference genes (ACTIN, UBQ, EF-1α, UBC, IF-4α, TUB, PP2A, and HIS), which were screened from the genome and transcriptome data in Brassica juncea. Four statistical analysis softwares geNorm, NormFinder, BestKeeper, and RefFinder were used to test the reliability and stability of gene expression of the reference genes. To further validate the stability of reference genes, the expression levels of two CYCD3 genes (BjuB045330 and BjuA003219) were studied. In addition, all genes in the xyloglucan endotransglucosylase/hydrolase (XTH) family were identified in B. juncea and their patterns at different periods of stem enlargement were analyzed. Results indicated that UBC and TUB genes showed stable levels of expression and are recommended for future research. In addition, XTH genes were involved in regulation of stem enlargement expression. These results provide new insights for future research aiming at exploring important functional genes, their expression patterns and regulatory mechanisms for mustard development.
Contribution of Known Genetic Risk Variants to Dyslipidemias and Type 2 Diabetes in Mexico: A Population-Based Nationwide Study
Authors: Huerta-Chagoya Alicia , Moreno-Macías Hortensia , Sevilla-González Magdalena , Rodríguez-Guillén Rosario , Ordóñez-Sánchez María L. , Gómez-Velasco Donají , Muñóz-Hernández Liliana , Segura-Kato Yayoi , Arellano-Campos Olimpia , Cruz-Bautista Ivette , Aguilar-Salinas Carlos A. , Tusié-Luna Teresa
Published: January 2020

Dyslipidemias are common risk factors for the development of chronic disorders including type 2 diabetes (T2D). Over 100 associated loci have been identified but few reports have evaluated the population attributable fraction captured by them in population-based nationwide surveys. Therefore, we determined the population contribution of a set of known genetic risk variants to the development of dyslipidemias and T2D in Mexico. This study included 1665 participants from a Mexican National Health Survey carried out in the year 2000. It is a probabilistic complex sample survey of households, which comprises representative data at a national level. 103 previously reported SNPs associated with different dyslipidemias or T2D were genotyped and used to compute polygenic risk scores. We found that the previously known variants associated with dyslipidemias explain at most 7% of the total risk variance of lipid levels. In contrast, the known genetic risk component for T2D explained a negligible amount of variance (0.1%). Notably, variants derived from the Native-American ancestry have the strongest effect and contribute with a high proportion of the variance. These results support the need for additional studies aimed to identify specific genetic risk variants for Mexican population.
Assessment of the Risk of Oral Cancer Incidence in A High-Risk Population and Establishment of A Predictive Model for Oral Cancer Incidence Using A Population-Based Cohort in Taiwan
Authors: Hung Li-Chen , Kung Pei-Tseng , Lung Chi-Hsuan , Tsai Ming-Hsui , Liu Shih-An , Chiu Li-Ting , Huang Kuang-Hua , Tsai Wen-Chen
Published: January 2020

We aimed to assess the risk of oral cancer incidence in a high-risk population, establish a predictive model for oral cancer among these high-risk individuals, and assess the predictive ability of the constructed model. Individuals aged ≥30 years who had a habit of smoking or betel nut chewing and had undergone oral cancer screening in 2010 or 2011 were selected as study subjects. The incidence of oral cancer among the subjects at the end of 2014 was determined. The annual oral cancer incidence among individuals with a positive screening result was 624 per 100,000 persons, which was 6.5 times that of the annual oral cancer incidence among all individuals screened. Male sex, aged 45–64 years, divorce, low educational level, presence of diabetes, presence of other cancers, high comorbidity severity, a habit of smoking or betel nut chewing, and low monthly salary were high-risk factors for oral cancer incidence (p < 0.05). The area under the curve of the predictive model for oral cancer incidence was 0.73, which indicated a good predictive ability. Therefore, the oral cancer screening policy for the high-risk population with a habit of smoking and/or betel nut chewing is beneficial for the early diagnosis of oral cancer.
Multicomponent Physical Exercise in Older Adults after Hospitalization: A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Short- vs. Long-Term Group-Based Interventions
Authors: Echeverria Iñaki , Amasene Maria , Urquiza Miriam , Labayen Idoia , Anaut Pilar , Rodriguez-Larrad Ana , Irazusta Jon , Besga Ariadna
Published: January 2020

Multicomponent physical exercise is effective in curbing the effect of hospitalization in older adults. However, it is not well established which characteristics of the exercise interventions would optimize intervention sustainability and efficacy. This study compared the effects of two group-based multicomponent exercise interventions of different lengths in older adults after hospitalization. Fifty-five participants were randomly assigned to a short-term group-based branch (SGB, n = 27) or to a long-term group-based branch (LGB, n = 28). The SGB participated in a six-week multicomponent group-based exercise-training program followed by 18 weeks of home-based exercise. The LGB completed 12 weeks of each phase. Physical function, physical activity, quality of life, anthropometrics, and nutritional status were assessed at baseline, after 12 weeks, and after 24 weeks of intervention. Both groups improved physical function and nutritional status and increased physical activity after 12 weeks of intervention (paired student’s t-test, p < 0.01), and maintained the positive effects during the following 12 weeks. No group-by-time interaction was observed in any of the studied variables using mixed-model ANOVA. Based on these findings, we determined that 6 weeks of a group-based exercise intervention caused similar functional and nutritional benefits to a longer group-based intervention of 12 weeks when both are continued at home until 24 weeks.
Selfie-Viewing and Facial Dissatisfaction among Emerging Adults: A Moderated Mediation Model of Appearance Comparisons and Self-Objectification
Authors: Yang Jing , Fardouly Jasmine , Wang Yuhui , Shi Wen
Published: January 2020

With the visual turn in online communication, selfies have become common on social media. Although selfies as a way of self-representation provide people with more chances to express themselves, the adverse effects selfies could bring to users’ body image need to be treated seriously. This study tested whether selfie-viewing behaviour on social media was related to facial dissatisfaction and whether appearance comparisons played a mediating role. Moreover, the self-objectification was examined as a moderator between selfie-viewing behaviour and facial dissatisfaction via appearance comparisons. Results showed that more selfie-viewing was associated with higher facial dissatisfaction, and this relationship was mediated by appearance comparisons. The study also found that self-objectification moderated the indirect relation between selfie-viewing and facial dissatisfaction via appearance comparisons. Gender differences were also found to affect the mediation model. Our research provides new insights into the interactions between social media use and perception of body image.
Anthropometric Characteristics, Body Composition and Somatotype of Elite Male Young Runners
Authors: Sánchez Muñoz Cristóbal , Muros José J. , López Belmonte Óscar , Zabala Mikel
Published: January 2020

The purpose of the present study was to describe the anthropometric characteristics, body composition and somatotype of elite male young runners (EYR), and to compare these variables according to the specialty in which they engaged (middle-distance vs. long-distance). This will enable an anthropometric profile chart to be established for them. Ninety EYR aged 17 to 23 years (18.4 ± 2.0) participated in the study. Athletes were divided into two groups according to the event in which they participated: middle-distance runners (MDR, n = 56) and long-distance runners (LDR, n = 34). Sixteen anthropometric variables were recorded for each participant: Weight, height, eight skinfolds, four girths, and two breadths. Body mass index (BMI), body composition and somatotype were calculated. Comparing MDR with the group of LDR, significant differences were found to exist for height, weight, relaxed upper arm girth, flexed and tensed upper arm girth, total upper arm area, upper arm muscle area, and thigh muscle area. No significant differences were observed in the other variables. MDR are taller, heavier and have larger girths than LDR. Coaches and sports scientists can use the data obtained to better control training, as well as for talent identification and athlete selection.
Associations of Socioeconomic Status, Parental Smoking and Parental E-Cigarette Use with 10–11-Year-Old Children’s Perceptions of Tobacco Cigarettes and E-Cigarettes: Cross Sectional Analysis of the CHETS Wales 3 Survey
Authors: Moore Graham , Angel Lianna , Gray Linsay , Copeland Lauren , Van Godwin Jordan , Segrott Jeremy , Hallingberg Britt
Published: January 2020

Background: This study examines primary schoolchildren’s perceptions of e-cigarettes and tobacco cigarettes, and associations with parental smoking, vaping and socioeconomic status. Methods: Survey of 2218 10–11-year-old children in 73 schools in Wales. Results: Overall, 36% reported that a parent figure smoked compared to 21% for vaping, with parental smoking lower in affluent families (OR = 0.72; 95% CI = 0.68 to 0.76). Overall, 1% had tried a cigarette, while 5% had tried an e-cigarette. Most said they would not smoke or vape in 2 years’ time; susceptibility to vaping (20%) was higher than smoking (12%). Exposure to and perceptions of tobacco cigarettes were more positive for children of smokers. Having a parent who vaped was associated with exposure to and positive perceptions of e-cigarettes, but not smoking. Most children perceived e-cigarettes as used by adults to stop smoking (64%). Susceptibility to smoking (OR = 0.57; 95% CI = 0.41 to 0.79) and vaping (OR = 0.78; 95% CI = 0.62 to 0.99) were lower among children who perceived e-cigarettes as cessation aids. Conclusions: Parental smoking continues to be concentrated in poorer families. This study provides no evidence that parental vaping in the absence of smoking is associated with more positive perceptions of tobacco cigarettes. Communicating to children the role of e-cigarettes as cessation devices for smokers may help to limit their appeal to young people.
Examining the Process of Modal Choice for Everyday Travel Among Older People
Authors: Ryan Jean
Published: January 2020

Modal choice is a prominent concept within transport studies. However, the term is often used quite loosely, with little known about the factors lying behind the choice, the alternatives available to a person, and whether the person had a ‘choice’ to begin with. This study draws on a travel survey among older people living in Sweden’s large metropolitan regions. The questions posed as part of this survey facilitate a greater insight into the processes at play behind modal choice. An analysis of the differences between: (1) the range of modal options available to respondents and (2) the modes selected from this range (modal choice) is presented. An analysis of the respondents’ reasoning for choosing the modes they did and not the others they could have chosen is also presented. It was found that more than a quarter of respondents have the option to use and actually use all modes for everyday travel. The car is more inclined to be selected among those who have a range of different modal options. Suitability and comfort are the two main reasons given for modal choice. More positive reasons are given for actively selecting walking and cycling, whereas the motives behind the selection of the car instead tend to be framed as reasons for not selecting other modes. Adaptive preference and adjustment effects are also apparent in the selection processes. This study gives us a deeper understanding of the intricate mechanisms and reasoning at play behind the process of modal choice among this group. In this way, we have a better basis for shaping and implementing measures to promote and encourage sustainable mobility, in such a way that the well-being of older people is also supported.
Association Between Mycotoxin Exposure and Dietary Habits in Colorectal Cancer Development Among a Polish Population: A Study Protocol
Authors: Przybyłowicz Katarzyna Eufemia , Arłukowicz Tomasz , Danielewicz Anna , Morze Jakub , Gajęcka Magdalena , Zielonka Łukasz , Fotschki Bartosz , Sawicki Tomasz
Published: January 2020

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common and lethal types of cancer worldwide. The developing of this disease includes many factors such as genetic, socioeconomic, environmental, and lifestyle factors, and nutrition habits. The aim of the study is the determination of zearalenone and its metabolite level in the biological samples of participants at risk of CRC, in relation to the nutrition data and information on the quality of life dependent on health. In the cohort clinical trial, 150 participants aged between 50 and 65 will be studied. The participants will be assigned into two groups depending on the colonoscopy result. Participants will be tested at dietary intake, quality of life, sleep time and quality, stress level as well as biochemical parameters of the blood. Moreover, in the biological samples, concentration of zearalenone and its metabolites (α-zearalenol and β-zearalenol) as well as the characteristics of gastrointestinal bacterial will be determined, and the end of the trial for both groups and their results will be compared. Taking into account the possible effect of mycotoxins and nutrition habits on the development of cancer, the results obtained may allow the formulation of new nutritional recommendations and reduce the development and occurrence of CRC.
The Association of Knowledge, Attitudes and Access with Park Use before and after a Park-Prescription Intervention for Low-Income Families in the U.S.
Authors: Razani Nooshin , Hills Nancy K. , Thompson Doug , Rutherford George W.
Published: January 2020

We conducted secondary data analyses of pooled data from a clinical trial that prescribed park visits to children and their caregivers in a low-income, urban setting. Data were collected at the prescribing visit (baseline) and at one and three months of follow up from 78 families. Family characteristics were identified at baseline; regression models were used to explore changes during follow up in associations of park use with knowledge, attitudes and perceived access to parks. At baseline, park users differed from non-users in demographics, knowledge of park locations, attitudes about the value of park visits, but not affinity for nature. Park users were also more likely than non-users to feel that their neighborhood was safe for children to play in. Changes in knowledge of park locations, nature affinity, and perceived access to parks were each significantly associated with increased park use by families at one and three months after the park prescription. Adjusting for age, gender, race, poverty, and US birth, increases in knowing the location of parks were associated with an increase of 0.27 weekly park visits (95% CI 0.05, 0.49; p = 0.016); increases in feeling a caregiver had money to visit parks were associated with 0.48 more weekly park visits (95% CI 0.28, 0.69; p < 0.001); increases in perceived money for park outings were associated with 0.24 increased park visits per week (95% CI 0.05, 0.42; p = 0.01); each unit increase in nature affinity was associated with 0.34 more weekly park visits (95% CI 0.09, 0.59; p = 0.007). In other words, knowing where to go, valuing nature, and having time, and money contributed to increased likelihood of visiting a park. We discuss in terms of health behavior theory how demographics, knowledge, attitudes and perceived barriers to park use can inform park prescription interventions.
Knowledge and Practice of Preventive Measures for Oral Health Care among Male Intermediate Schoolchildren in Abha, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al-Qahtani Saad Masood , Razak Pervez Abdul , Khan Siraj DAA
Published: January 2020

The aims of this study were to evaluate oral health knowledge and assess the practice of preventive measures for oral health care among intermediate schoolchildren in Abha, Saudi Arabia. Information about oral health was collected through a questionnaire containing closed-ended questions, which was distributed to children of six randomly selected intermediate schools. Most (82.3%) of the schoolchildren were aware that good oral health is important for general health. The priority for oral health information was given to dentists (31.6%), whereas teachers were given the least priority (19.1%). About half (53.5%) of the schoolchildren reported that sweets are the cause of dental caries, and 47.1% of them related pain with dental caries. More than half (58.8%) took sweets between meals. Most of them (69.6%) visited a dentist because of pain. Two-thirds (66.9%) of the children did not brush their teeth daily, and most (78%) did not use dental floss. A large number (62.7%) of the schoolchildren stated that rinsing with water after each meal is the best way to keep their gums healthy. For boys in intermediate schools, properly designed oral health educational programs should be implemented to improve their knowledge and behavior toward oral health.
Conciliating Perspectives from Mapping Agencies and Web of Data on Successful European SDIs: Toward a European Geographic Knowledge Graph
Authors: Bucher Bénédicte , Tiainen Esa , Ellett von Brasch Thomas , Janssen Paul , Kotzinos Dimitris , Čeh Marjan , Rijsdijk Martijn , Folmer Erwin , Van Damme Marie-Dominique , Zhral Mehdi
Published: January 2020

Spatial Data Infrastructures (SDIs) are a key asset for Europe. This paper concentrates on unsolved issues in SDIs in Europe related to the management of semantic heterogeneities. It studies contributions and competences from two communities in this field: cartographers, authoritative data providers, and geographic information scientists on the one hand, and computer scientists working on the Web of Data on the other. During several workshops organized by the EuroSDR and Eurogeographics organizations, the authors analyzed their complementarity and discovered reasons for the difficult collaboration between these communities. They have different and sometimes conflicting perspectives on what successful SDIs should look like, as well as on priorities. We developed a proposal to integrate both perspectives, which is centered on the elaboration of an open European Geographical Knowledge Graph. Its structure reuses results from the literature on geographical information ontologies. It is associated with a multifaceted roadmap addressing interrelated aspects of SDIs.
Spatiotemporal Evolution of Urban Expansion Using Landsat Time Series Data and Assessment of Its Influences on Forests
Authors: Zhang Meng , Du Huaqiang , Mao Fangjie , Zhou Guomo , Li Xuejian , Dong Luofan , Zheng Junlong , Zhu Di’en , Liu Hua , Huang Zihao , He Shaobai
Published: January 2020

Analysis of urban land use dynamics is essential for assessing ecosystem functionalities and climate change impacts. The focus of this study is on monitoring the characteristics of urban expansion in Hang-Jia-Hu and evaluating its influences on forests by applying 30-m multispectral Landsat data and a machine learning algorithm. Firstly, remote sensed images were preprocessed with radiation calibration, atmospheric correction and topographic correction. Then, the C5.0 decision tree was used to establish classification trees and then applied to make land use maps. Finally, spatiotemporal changes were analyzed through dynamic degree and land use transfer matrix. In addition, average land use transfer probability matrix (ATPM) was utilized for the prediction of land use area in the next 20 years. The results show that: (1) C5.0 decision tree performed with precise accuracy in land use classification, with an average total accuracy and kappa coefficient of more than 90.04% and 0.87. (2) During the last 20 years, land use in Hang-Jia-Hu has changed extensively. Urban area expanded from 5.84% in 1995 to 21.32% in 2015, which has brought about enormous impacts on cultivated land, with 198,854 hectares becoming urban, followed by forests with 19,823 hectares. (3) Land use area prediction based on the ATPM revealed that urbanization will continue to expand at the expense of cultivated land, but the impact on the forests will be greater than the past two decades. Rationality of urban land structure distribution is important for economic and social development. Therefore, remotely sensed technology combined with machine learning algorithms is of great significance to the dynamic detection of resources in the process of urbanization.
Analysis of Spatial Interaction between Different Food Cultures in South and North China: Practices from People’s Daily Life
Authors: Zhang Haiping , Zhou Xingxing , Huang Yi
Published: January 2020

An important component of research in cultural geography involves the exploration and analysis of the laws of regional cultural differences. This topic has considerable significance in the discovery of distinctive cultures, protection of regional cultures, and in-depth understanding of cultural differences. In recent years, with the “spatial turn” of sociology, scholars have focused increasing attention to implicit spatial information in social media data, as well as the social phenomena and laws they reflect. Grasping sociocultural phenomena and their spatial distribution characteristics through texts is an important aspect. Using machine learning methods, such as the popular natural language processing (NLP) approach, this study extracts hotspot cultural elements from text data and accurately detects the spatial interaction patterns of specific cultures, as well as the characteristics of emotions toward non-native cultures. Through NLP, this study examines cultural differences among people from South and North China by analyzing 6128 answers to the question, “What are the differences between South and North China that you ever know?” posted on the Zhihu Q&A platform. Moreover, this study probes individuals’ emotions and cognition of cultural differences between South and North China in three aspects, namely, spatial interaction patterns of hotspot cultural elements, components of hotspot cultures, and emotional characteristics under the influence of cultural differences between the two regions. Results reveal that: (1) people from North and South China exhibit considerable differences in recognizing each other’s culture; (2) among numerous cultural differences, food culture is the most popular; and (3) people tend to have a negative attitude toward food cultures that differ from their own. These factors can shed light on regional cultural differences and help address cultural conflicts. In addition, this study provides effective solutions from a macro perspective, which has been challenging for new cultural geography.
STVNa Attenuates Isoproterenol-Induced Cardiac Hypertrophy Response through the HDAC4 and Prdx2/ROS/Trx1 Pathways
Authors: Liu Fei , Su Hao , Liu Bo , Mei Ying , Ke Qingjin , Sun Xiaoou , Tan Wen
Published: January 2020

Recent data show that cardiac hypertrophy contributes substantially to the overall heart failure burden. Mitochondrial dysfunction is a common feature of cardiac hypertrophy. Recent studies have reported that isosteviol inhibits myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury in guinea pigs and H9c2 cells. This work investigated the protective mechanisms of isosteviol sodium (STVNa) against isoproterenol (Iso)-induced cardiac hypertrophy. We found that STVNa significantly inhibited H9c2 cell and rat primary cardiomyocyte cell surface, restored mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and morphological integrity, and decreased the expression of mitochondrial function-related proteins Fis1 and Drp1. Furthermore, STVNa decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and upregulated the expression of antioxidant factors, Thioredoxin 1 (Trx1) and Peroxiredoxin 2 (Prdx2). Moreover, STVNa restored the activity of histone deacetylase 4 (HDAC4) in the nucleus. Together, our data show that STVNa confers protection against Iso-induced myocardial hypertrophy primarily through the Prdx2/ROS/Trx1 signaling pathway. Thus, STVNA is a potentially effective treatment for cardiac hypertrophy in humans.
Helicase-Like Transcription Factor HLTF and E3 Ubiquitin Ligase SHPRH Confer DNA Damage Tolerance through Direct Interactions with Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen (PCNA)
Authors: Seelinger Mareike , Otterlei Marit
Published: January 2020

To prevent replication fork collapse and genome instability under replicative stress, DNA damage tolerance (DDT) mechanisms have evolved. The RAD5 homologs, HLTF (helicase-like transcription factor) and SHPRH (SNF2, histone-linker, PHD and RING finger domain-containing helicase), both ubiquitin ligases, are involved in several DDT mechanisms; DNA translesion synthesis (TLS), fork reversal/remodeling and template switch (TS). Here we show that these two human RAD5 homologs contain functional APIM PCNA interacting motifs. Our results show that both the role of HLTF in TLS in HLTF overexpressing cells, and nuclear localization of SHPRH, are dependent on interaction of HLTF and SHPRH with PCNA. Additionally, we detected multiple changes in the mutation spectra when APIM in overexpressed HLTF or SHPRH were mutated compared to overexpressed wild type proteins. In plasmids from cells overexpressing the APIM mutant version of HLTF, we observed a decrease in C to T transitions, the most common mutation caused by UV irradiation, and an increase in mutations on the transcribed strand. These results strongly suggest that direct binding of HLTF and SHPRH to PCNA is vital for their function in DDT.
Biopolymers-Based Materials Containing Silver Nanoparticles as Active Packaging for Food Applications–A Review
Authors: Kraśniewska Karolina , Galus Sabina , Gniewosz Małgorzata
Published: January 2020

Packaging is an integral part of food products, allowing the preservation of their quality. It plays an important role, protecting the packed product from external conditions, maintaining food quality, and improving properties of the packaged food during storage. Nevertheless, commonly used packaging based on synthetic non-biodegradable polymers causes serious environmental pollution. Consequently, numerous recent studies have focused on the development of biodegradable packaging materials based on biopolymers. In addition, biopolymers may be classified as active packaging materials, since they have the ability to carry different active substances. This review presents the latest updates on the use of silver nanoparticles in packaging materials based on biopolymers. Silver nanoparticles have become an interesting component of biodegradable biopolymers, mainly due to their antimicrobial properties that allow the development of active food packaging materials to prolong the shelf life of food products. Furthermore, incorporation of silver nanoparticles into biopolymers may lead to the development of materials with improved physical-mechanical properties.
An Update on the Progress of Isolation, Culture, Storage, and Clinical Application of Human Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells
Authors: Chu Dinh-Toi , Phuong Thuy Nguyen Thi , Tien Nguyen Le Bao , Tran Dang Khoa , Thanh Vo Van , Quang Thuy Luu , Truong Dang Tien , Pham Van Huy , Ngoc Vo Truong Nhu , Chu-Dinh Thien , Kushekhar Kushi
Published: January 2020

Bone marrow mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (BMSCs), which are known as multipotent cells, are widely used in the treatment of various diseases via their self-renewable, differentiation, and immunomodulatory properties. In-vitro and in-vivo studies have supported the understanding mechanisms, safety, and efficacy of BMSCs therapy in clinical applications. The number of clinical trials in phase I/II is accelerating; however, they are limited in the size of subjects, regulations, and standards for the preparation and transportation and administration of BMSCs, leading to inconsistency in the input and outcome of the therapy. Based on the International Society for Cellular Therapy guidelines, the characterization, isolation, cultivation, differentiation, and applications can be optimized and standardized, which are compliant with good manufacturing practice requirements to produce clinical-grade preparation of BMSCs. This review highlights and updates on the progress of production, as well as provides further challenges in the studies of BMSCs, for the approval of BMSCs widely in clinical application.
The Multiple Roles of the Cdc14 Phosphatase in Cell Cycle Control
Authors: Manzano-López Javier , Monje-Casas Fernando
Published: January 2020

The Cdc14 phosphatase is a key regulator of mitosis in the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Cdc14 was initially described as playing an essential role in the control of cell cycle progression by promoting mitotic exit on the basis of its capacity to counteract the activity of the cyclin-dependent kinase Cdc28/Cdk1. A compiling body of evidence, however, has later demonstrated that this phosphatase plays other multiple roles in the regulation of mitosis at different cell cycle stages. Here, we summarize our current knowledge about the pivotal role of Cdc14 in cell cycle control, with a special focus in the most recently uncovered functions of the phosphatase.
Does Allergy Break Bones? Osteoporosis and Its Connection to Allergy
Authors: Sirufo Maria Maddalena , Suppa Mariano , Ginaldi Lia , De Martinis Massimo
Published: January 2020

Osteoporosis and allergic diseases are important causes of morbidity, and traditionally their coexistence has been attributed to causality, to independent processes, and they were considered unrelated. However, the increasing knowledge in the field of osteoimmunology and an increasing number of epidemiological and biological studies have provided support to a correlation between bone and allergy that share pathways, cells, cytokines and mediators. If the link between allergic pathology and bone alterations appears more subtle, there are conditions such as mastocytosis and hypereosinophilic or hyper-IgE syndromes characterized by the proliferation of cells or hyper-production of molecules that play a key role in allergies, in which this link is at least clinically more evident, and the diseases are accompanied by frank skeletal involvement, offering multiple speculation cues. The pathophysiological connection of allergy and osteoporosis is currently an intriguing area of research. The aim of this review is to summarize and bring together the current knowledge and pursue an opportunity to stimulate further investigation.