bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Positive Effect of Iron Doping in the Electrocatalytic Activity of Cobalt Hexacyanoferrate
Authors: Han Lijuan , Galán-Mascarós José Ramón
Published: January 2020

The lack of an earth-abundant, robust, and fast electrocatalyst for the oxygen evolution reaction (water oxidation) is a major bottleneck for the development of an scalable scheme towards the production of electrolytic hydrogen and other synthetic fuels from renewable energy and natural feedstocks. While many transition metal oxides work reasonably well in basic media, very few alternatives are available in neutral or acidic media. One promising candidate comes from the Prussian blue family, cobalt hexacyanoferrate. This electrocatalyst offers robust activity in a large pH range ( 0 < pH < 13 ), although current densities are limited due to slow charge transfer kinetics. Herein, we report how the partial substitution of catalytically active Co centres by additional Fe boosts current densities, reaching over 100 mA/cm 2 , more than double the performance of the parent Co 2 [Fe(CN) 6 ]. Those new results clearly increase the opportunity for this catalyst to become relevant in industrial-ready electrolyser architectures.
In-Situ FT-IR Spectroscopy Investigation of CH4 and CO2 Reaction
Authors: Liu Yongjun , Cui Nan , Jia Penglong , Huang Wei
Published: January 2020

An exclusive trace of CH4 direct carboxylation with CO2 by a stepwise technology was investigated using in-situ FT-IR spectroscopy. The results showed that CH4 was dissociated to atomic hydrogen and M-CHx species on catalyst surface when it was first introduced in the system, then CO2 was inserted into the intermediate to direct carboxylate. Finally, the subsequent adsorption of CH4 provided active hydrogen for the species of previous surface reaction, thus leading to the formation of the product. It was also found that the first introduction of CO2 on the surface of the “clean” catalyst might likely react with surface H species, which had an irreversible effect on the catalytic activity of CH4.
Role of JAK/STAT3 Signaling in the Regulation of Metastasis, the Transition of Cancer Stem Cells, and Chemoresistance of Cancer by Epithelial–Mesenchymal Transition
Authors: Jin Wook
Published: January 2020

The JAK/STAT3 signaling pathway plays an essential role in various types of cancers. Activation of this pathway leads to increased tumorigenic and metastatic ability, the transition of cancer stem cells (CSCs), and chemoresistance in cancer via enhancing the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). EMT acts as a critical regulator in the progression of cancer and is involved in regulating invasion, spread, and survival. Furthermore, accumulating evidence indicates the failure of conventional therapies due to the acquisition of CSC properties. In this review, we summarize the effects of JAK/STAT3 activation on EMT and the generation of CSCs. Moreover, we discuss cutting-edge data on the link between EMT and CSCs in the tumor microenvironment that involves a previously unknown function of miRNAs, and also discuss new regulators of the JAK/STAT3 signaling pathway.
Oxidative DNA Damage Modulates DNA Methylation Pattern in Human Breast Cancer 1 (BRCA1) Gene via the Crosstalk between DNA Polymerase β and a de novo DNA Methyltransferase
Authors: Jiang Zhongliang , Lai Yanhao , Beaver Jill M. , Tsegay Pawlos S. , Zhao Ming-Lang , Horton Julie K. , Zamora Marco , Rein Hayley L. , Miralles Frank , Shaver Mohammad , Hutcheson Joshua D. , Agoulnik Irina , Wilson Samuel H. , Liu Yuan
Published: January 2020

DNA damage and base excision repair (BER) are actively involved in the modulation of DNA methylation and demethylation. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we seek to understand the mechanisms by exploring the effects of oxidative DNA damage on the DNA methylation pattern of the tumor suppressor breast cancer 1 (BRCA1) gene in the human embryonic kidney (HEK) HEK293H cells. We found that oxidative DNA damage simultaneously induced DNA demethylation and generation of new methylation sites at the CpGs located at the promoter and transcribed regions of the gene ranging from −189 to +27 in human cells. We demonstrated that DNA damage-induced demethylation was mediated by nucleotide misincorporation by DNA polymerase β (pol β). Surprisingly, we found that the generation of new DNA methylation sites was mediated by coordination between pol β and the de novo DNA methyltransferase, DNA methyltransferase 3b (DNMT3b), through the interaction between the two enzymes in the promoter and encoding regions of the BRCA1 gene. Our study provides the first evidence that oxidative DNA damage can cause dynamic changes in DNA methylation in the BRCA1 gene through the crosstalk between BER and de novo DNA methylation.
Interaction between Polycomb and SSX Proteins in Pericentromeric Heterochromatin Function and Its Implication in Cancer
Authors: Johansen Simone , Gjerstorff Morten Frier
Published: January 2020

The stability of pericentromeric heterochromatin is maintained by repressive epigenetic control mechanisms, and failure to maintain this stability may cause severe diseases such as immune deficiency and cancer. Thus, deeper insight into the epigenetic regulation and deregulation of pericentromeric heterochromatin is of high priority. We and others have recently demonstrated that pericentromeric heterochromatin domains are often epigenetically reprogrammed by Polycomb proteins in premalignant and malignant cells to form large subnuclear structures known as Polycomb bodies. This may affect the regulation and stability of pericentromeric heterochromatin domains and/or the distribution of Polycomb factors to support tumorigeneses. Importantly, Polycomb bodies in cancer cells may be targeted by the cancer/testis-related SSX proteins to cause derepression and genomic instability of pericentromeric heterochromatin. This review will discuss the interplay between SSX and Polycomb factors in the repression and stability of pericentromeric heterochromatin and its possible implications for tumor biology.
Stability-Ranking of Crystalline Ice Polymorphs Using Density-Functional Theory
Authors: Samanta Pralok K. , Burnham Christian J. , English Niall J.
Published: January 2020

In this work, we consider low-enthalpy polymorphs of ice, predicted previously using a modified basin-hopping algorithm for crystal-structure prediction with the TIP4P empirical potential at three pressures (0, 4 and 8 kbar). We compare and (re)-rank the reported ice polymorphs in order of energetic stability, using high-level quantum-chemical calculations, primarily in the guise of sophisticated Density-Functional Theory (DFT) approaches. In the absence of applied pressure, ice Ih is predicted to be energetically more stable than ice Ic, and TIP4P-predicted results and ranking compare well with the results obtained from DFT calculations. However, perhaps not unexpectedly, the deviation between TIP4P- and DFT-calculated results increases with applied external pressure.
Fewer Copepods, Fewer Anchovies, and More Jellyfish: How Does Hypoxia Impact the Chesapeake Bay Zooplankton Community?
Authors: L. Slater Wencheng , Pierson James J. , Decker Mary Beth , Houde Edward D. , Lozano Carlos , Seuberling James
Published: January 2020

To understand dissolved oxygen deficiency in Chesapeake Bay and its direct impact on zooplankton and planktivorous fish communities, six research cruises were conducted at two sites in the Chesapeake Bay from spring to autumn in 2010 and 2011. Temperature, salinity, and dissolved oxygen were measured from hourly conductivity, temperature, and depth (CTD) casts, and crustacean zooplankton, planktivorous fish and gelatinous zooplankton were collected with nets and trawls. CTD data were grouped into three temperature groups and two dissolved oxygen-level subgroups using principal component analysis (PCA). Species concentrations and copepod nonpredatory mortalities were compared between oxygenated conditions within each temperature group. Under hypoxic conditions, there usually were significantly fewer copepods Acartia tonsa and bay anchovies Anchoa mitchilli, but more bay nettles Chyrsaora chesapeakei and lobate ctenophores Mnemiopsis leidyi. Neutral red staining of copepod samples confirmed that copepod nonpredatory mortalities were higher under hypoxic conditions than under normoxia, indicating that the sudden decline in copepod concentration in summer was directly associated with hypoxia. Because comparisons were made within each temperature group, the effects of temperature were isolated, and hypoxia was clearly shown to have contributed to copepod decreases, planktivorous fish decreases, and gelatinous zooplankton increases. This research quantified the direct effects of hypoxia and explained the interactions between seasonality and hypoxia on the zooplankton population.
Papillary Thyroid Cancer in a Struma Ovarii in a 17-Year-Old Nulliparous Patient: A Case Report
Authors: Gonet Agnieszka , Ślusarczyk Rafał , Gąsior-Perczak Danuta , Kowalik Artur , Kopczyński Janusz , Kowalska Aldona
Published: January 2020

Introduction: Struma ovarii accounts for 2% of mature teratomas. Struma ovarii is diagnosed when thyroid tissue accounts for >50% of the teratoma. Malignant transformation is rare, occurring in <5% of struma ovarii cases. Case presentation: A 17-year-old patient was diagnosed with papillary thyroid cancer in struma ovarii. The patient exhibited menstrual disorders. Abdominal and pelvic CT revealed a 17 cm mass in the left adnexa. Laparoscopic removal of the left adnexa with enucleation of right ovarian cysts was performed. Histopathological diagnosis was a follicular variant papillary carcinoma measuring 23 mm in diameter. Immunohistochemical positive expression of CK19, TTF-1, and thyroglobulin (Tg) confirmed the diagnosis. Molecular analysis detected the BRAF K601E mutation in ovarian tumor tissues. Preoperative serum Tg concentration was >300 ng/mL, which decreased to 38.2 ng/mL after gynecological surgery with undetectable anti-Tg antibodies. The patient underwent total thyroidectomy with no cancer detected on histopathological examination. The patient was treated with I-131 and showed no recurrence 4 years after the diagnosis. Conclusions: Malignant struma ovarii is diagnosed by surgery. Because papillary carcinoma in struma ovarii is rare and there are no guidelines regarding the management of this type of cancer, therapeutic decisions should be made individually based on clinical and pathological data.
Assessment of Activity of Daily Life in Mucopolysaccharidosis Type II Patients with Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Suzuki Yasuyuki , Taylor Madeleine , Orii Kenji , Fukao Toshiyuki , Orii Tadao , Tomatsu Shunji
Published: January 2020

The effectiveness of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) for mucopolysaccharidosis type II (MPS II, Hunter disease) remains controversial although recent studies have shown HSCT provides more clinical impact. This study aims to evaluate the long-term effectiveness of HSCT using the activity of daily living (ADL) scores in patients with MPS II. Sixty-nine severely affected MPS II patients (19 patients who received HSCT and 50 untreated patients) and 40 attenuated affected patients (five with HSCT and 35 untreated) were investigated by a simplified ADL questionnaire. The frequency of clinical findings and the scores of ADL (verbal, gross motor, and the level of care) were analyzed statistically. The mean age of onset of 19 severely affected patients who received HSCT was 1.40 years ± 1.06, which is not statistically different from that of 50 untreated patients (p = 0.11). Macroglossia, frequent airway infection, hepatosplenomegaly, joint contracture, and sleep apnea were less frequent in the HSCT-treated group of severe MPS II patients. The severe phenotype HSCT treated group reported a statistically significant higher score of verbal function and gross motor function between the ages of 10 and 15 years and a higher level of care score between 10 and 20 years. Patients with the attenuated phenotype showed high ADL scores, and all of five HSCT treated patients reported a lower frequency of frequent airway infection, coarse skin, umbilical/inguinal hernia, hepatosplenomegaly, heart valve disorders, and carpal tunnel. In conclusion, HSCT is effective, resulting in improvements in clinical features and ADL in patients with MPS II. HSCT should be re-reviewed as a therapeutic option for MPS II patients.
Hall Technique for Carious Primary Molars: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Altoukhi Doua H. , El-Housseiny Azza A.
Published: January 2020

The high frequency of caries in primary teeth and its inadequate treatment are major public health problems during childhood. Nowadays, the Hall technique is one of the methods used for biological sealing in carious lesions in primary molars. Thus, the bacteria will be sealed from oral environment and the caries will be inactive. The objective of this article was to provide an updated search on the Hall technique description, indication, contraindication, advantages, concerns, success and failure, cost-effectiveness, acceptability, and preference in pediatric dentistry, and to compare the Hall technique with traditional crown preparation and conventional treatment options for carious primary molars. A discussion of the recently published articles on the Hall technique reveals that the Hall technique is considered a promising restorative option with high acceptability and longevity; with low failure rate for managing carious primary molars compared to conventional treatment modalities used in primary care settings. Furthermore, the survival rate of stainless steel crowns (SSCs) is considered high, whether provided using Hall technique or traditional preparation by a pediatric dentist. Thus, the Hall technique can be an effective addition to the clinician’s range of treatment options for carious primary molars. However, it should be chosen in restricted cases.
Industry 4.0 Diagnosis from an iMillennial Educational Perspective
Authors: Cotet Gabriela Beatrice , Carutasu Nicoleta Luminita , Chiscop Florina
Published: January 2020

Although the new economic paradigm is based on the rapid evolution of technology, it is not clear if this evolution is only dependent on a spectacular transformation of human resources or if the evolution of human resources has imposed major changes at a technical level as well. The main focus of this paper is to identify how to cope with these new technologies as educational actors, using a diagnosis of contemporary generation characteristics. The fourth industrial revolution (Industry 4.0) imposes a rapid evolution (or revolution) of the human resources paradigm in engineering: iMillennials should adapt to that paradigm, and the paradigm should be adapted to them. The research objectives were to identify some relevant characteristics of iMillennials’ technological background and to create a map of the abilities of this generation as required by the evolution of new technologies. For a batch of students with a technical background, two psychological inventories that describe emotional intelligence and motivation acquisition were applied. Each inventory used focuses on certain features that describe motivational achievement (AMI) or emotional intelligence (EQ-I). Besides the motivational features, the AMI questionnaire also refers to socio-emotional abilities. A correlation between the parameters of the two inventories occurred. Three correlated parameters (assertiveness, reality testing, and commitment) were identified. Based on these results, a constellation map of soft skills was designed to match characteristic features of iMillennials with necessary competencies for an Industry 4.0 environment. Furthermore, this paper proposes a tool for educational actors to cope with these transformations based on the new technologies of Industry 4.0 and the characteristics of the iMillennials generation.
Acknowledgement to Reviewers of European Journal of Investigation in Health, Psychology and Education in 2019
Authors:   EJIHPE Editorial Office
Published: January 2020

The editorial team greatly appreciates the reviewers who have dedicated their considerable time and expertise to the journal’s rigorous editorial process over the past 12 months,[...]
Novel Prediction Framework for Path Delay Variation Based on Learning Method
Authors: Guo Jingjing , Cao Peng , Sun Zhaohao , Xu Bingqian , Liu Zhiyuan , Yang Jun
Published: January 2020

Path delay variation becomes a serious concern in advanced technology, especially for multi-corner conditions. Plenty of timing analysis methods have been proposed to solve the issue of path delay variation, but they mainly focus on every single corner and are based on a characterized timing library, which neglects the correlation among multiple corners, resulting in a high characterization effort for all required corners. Here, a novel prediction framework is proposed for path delay variation by employing a learning-based method using back propagation (BP) regression. It can be used to solve the issue of path delay variation prediction under a single corner. Moreover, for multi-corner conditions, the proposed framework can be further expanded to predict corners that are not included in the training set. Experimental results show that the proposed model outperforms the traditional Advanced On-Chip Variation (AOCV) method with 1.4X improvement for the prediction of path delay variation for single corners. Additionally, while predicting new corners, the maximum error is 4.59%, which is less than current state-of-the-art works.
An Urban Autodriving Algorithm Based on a Sensor-Weighted Integration Field with Deep Learning
Authors: Oh Minho , Cha Bokyung , Bae Inhwan , Choi Gyeungho , Lim Yongseob
Published: January 2020

This paper proposes two algorithms for adaptive driving in urban environments: the first uses vision deep learning, which is named the sparse spatial convolutional neural network (SSCNN); and the second uses a sensor integration algorithm, named the sensor-weighted integration field (SWIF). These algorithms utilize three kinds of sensors, namely vision, Light Detection and Range (LiDAR), and GPS sensors, and decide critical motions for autonomous vehicle, such as steering angles and vehicle speed. SSCNN, which is used for lane recognition, has 2.7 times faster processing speed than the existing spatial CNN method. Additionally, the dataset for SSCNN was constructed by considering both normal and abnormal driving in 7 classes. Thus, lanes can be recognized by extending lanes for special characteristics in urban settings, in which the lanes can be obscured or erased, or the vehicle can drive in any direction. SWIF generates a two-dimensional matrix, in which elements are weighted by integrating both the object data from LiDAR and waypoints from GPS based on detected lanes. These weights are the integers, indicating the degree of safety. Based on the field formed by SWIF, the safe trajectories for two vehicles’ motions, steering angles, and vehicle speed are generated by applying the cost field. Additionally, to flexibly follow the desired steering angle and vehicle speed, the Proportional-Integral-Differential (PID) control is moderated by an integral anti-windup scheme. Consequently, as the dataset considers characteristics of the urban environment, SSCNN is able to be adopted for lane recognition on urban roads. The SWIF algorithm is also useful for flexible driving owing to the high efficiency of its sensor integration, including having a resolution of 2 cm per pixel and speed of 24 fps. Thus, a vehicle can be successfully maneuvered with minimized steering angle change, without lane or route departure, and without obstacle collision in the presence of diverse disturbances in urban road conditions.
Collaborative Mobile-Learning Architecture Based on Mobile Agents
Authors: Atawneh Samer , Al-Akhras Mousa , AlMomani Iman , Liswi Anas , Alawairdhi Mohammed
Published: January 2020

The connection between collaborative learning and the new mobile technology has become tighter. Mobile learning enhances collaborative learning as learners can access information and learning materials from anywhere and at any time. However, supporting efficient mobile learning in education is a critical challenge. In addition, incorporating technological and educational components becomes a new, complex dimension. In this paper, an efficient collaborative mobile-learning architecture based on mobile agents is proposed to enhance learning activity and to allow teachers and students to collaborate in knowledge and information transfer. A mobile agent can control its own actions, is able to communicate with other agents, and adapts in accordance with previous experience. The proposed model consists of four components: the learner agent, the teacher agent, the device agent and the social agent. The social agent plays the main role in the collaborative tasks since it is responsible for evaluating the collaborative interactions among different learners. Additionally, it offers an evaluation indicator for the learners’ collaboration and supplies the teacher with learner’s collaboration reports. The proposed model is evaluated by introducing a collaborative mobile-learning case study applied to two full classes of undergraduate students. To conduct the model experiments, students were asked to complete a questionnaire after they used the proposed model. The questionnaire results statistically revealed that the proposed architecture is easy to use and access, well-organized, convenient, and facilitates the learning process. The students thought the proposed m-learning application should complement rather than replace the traditional lectures. Moreover, the experimental results show that the proposed collaborative mobile learning model enhances the learner’s skills in problem solving, increases the learner’s knowledge in comparison with individual learning, and social agent encourages learners for more participation in the learning tasks. Based on the experiments conducted, the authors found that the proposed model can improve the quality of the learning process by assessing learners’ and groups’ collaboration, and it can help teachers make learners improve how they work in groups. This also provides various ways of assessing learners abilities and skills in groups. It is also possible to integrate the collaborative e-learning with the proposed collaborative m-learning.
Design of Reconfigurable Bandwidth Filtering Antenna and Its Applications in IR/UWB System
Authors: Zhang Zhuohang , Pan Zhongming
Published: January 2020

A reconfigurable bandwidth antenna for an impulse radio-UWB (IR/UWB) system design is illustrated in this paper. By adopting a continuously tunable low-pass filter by varactor at the feed of the antenna, the proposed antenna obtains a continuous tunable bandwidth from 1.02 GHz to 2.42 GHz. To ensure the identifiability of transmitted pulses in (IR-UWB) system, the antenna is analyzed in both frequency domain and time domain. The proposed antenna is valid with a system fidelity factor (SFF) above 0.8 while the bandwidth is tuning. The compact size, low cost, and tunable bandwidth with the identifiability of the transmitted pulse makes it suitable for UWB impulse radars to improve the utility ratio of frequency, and dynamic adjustment avoids interference of the IR-UWB in other communication frequency bands.
Low Noise, High Input Impedance Digital-Analog Hybrid Offset Suppression Amplifier for Wearable Dry Electrode ECG Monitoring
Authors: Xu Weilin , Wang Taotao , Wei Xueming , Yue Hongwei , Wei Baolin , Duan Jihai , Li Haiou
Published: January 2020

The portable real-time electrocardiogram (ECG) is a convenient and promising electronic device for cardiovascular diseases patients. However, unlike wet gel electrodes in traditional clinical applications, dry electrodes are competent for comfortable long-time wearing and can prevent skin ulceration. Its ultra-high source impedance and electrode offset (EOS) make traditional chopper amplifiers with low input impedance and limited EOS range difficult to apply to this area. To overcome these challenges, this paper proposes a novel chopper amplifier topology. This architecture includes a gain control loop, a ripple reduction loop, and a DC-servo loop (DSL). The proposed sampling input stage and digital-analog hybrid DSL are employed to boost input impedance and extend the EOS handing range. Designed with a 0.18 µm 1P6M 1.8 V CMOS salicide process, the proposed chopper capacitively coupled instrumentation amplifier achieves an ultra-high input impedance of 120 GΩ (<0.05 Hz) or 2.1 GΩ (0.6~250 Hz), an EOS handing range of ±325 mV and a low noise of 1.9 μVrms at 0.6~250 Hz. It occupies an area of 0.36 mm2 and only consumes a quiescent current of 11 μA.
A Novel Rate Control Algorithm Based on ρ Model for Multiview High Efficiency Video Coding
Authors: Yan Tao , Ra In-Ho , Zhang Qian , Xu Hang , Huang Linyun
Published: January 2020

Most existing rate control algorithms are based on the rate-quantization (R-Q) model. However, with video coding schemes becoming more flexible, it is very difficult to accurately model the R-Q relationship. Therefore, in this study we propose a novel ρ domain rate control algorithm for multiview high efficiency video coding (MV-HEVC). Firstly, in order to further improve the efficiency of MV-HEVC, this paper uses our previous research algorithm to optimize the MV-HEVC prediction structure. Then, we established the ρ domain rate control model based on multi-objective optimization. Finally, it used image similarity to analyze the correlation between viewpoints, using encoded information and frame complexity to proceed in bit allocation and bit rate control of the inter-view, frame lay, and base unit. The experimental simulation results show that the algorithm can simultaneously maintain high coding efficiency, where the average error of the actual bit rate and the target bit rate is only 0.9%.
Design and Implementation of a Test Fixture for ELF Schumann Resonance Magnetic Antenna Receiver and Magnetic Permeability Measurements
Authors: Tatsis Giorgos , Christofilakis Vasilis , Chronopoulos Spyridon K. , Kostarakis Panos , Nistazakis Hector E. , Repapis C. , Tritakis V.
Published: January 2020

This paper presents a prototype test fixture for the absolute calibration and estimation of the equivalent magnetic flux noise of the extremely low frequency (ELF) Schumann resonant (SR) magnetic antenna receiver and rods’ magnetic permeability measurement. The test fixture, for ELF the SR detector’s calibration, consists of a constructed coil, the signal generator, and the oscilloscope. The ELF SR detector used has been operating since 2016 near the Doliana village in the Ioannina prefecture, Northwestern Greece. At precisely this spot, far away from electromagnetic noise, the whole setup and experiment took place. The experiments performed with the proposed test fixture showed a sensitivity of 70 nV/pT/Hz and an apparent magnetic permeability at around 250 for the magnetic antenna. The total sensitivity of the ELF receiver was 210 mV/pT near 20 Hz, while the total input noise was around 0.04 pT.
A Topology Synthetization Method for Single-Phase, Full-Bridge, Transformerless Inverter with Leakage Current Suppression—Part II
Authors: Yue Xiumei , Wang Hongliang , Zhu Xiaonan , Wei Xinwei , Liu Yan-Fei
Published: January 2020

This paper proposes a topology derivation methodology to achieve small leakage current or zero leakage current for photovoltaic application. The core of the proposed method is a unified topology model and MN principle to show how to derive all possible topologies based on unipolar sinusoidal pulse width modulation (USPWM) and double-frequency USPWM (DFUSPWM). Part II of this paper discusses the topology synthetization method to achieve zero leakage current. Two types of neutral point clamped (NPC) topologies based on USPWM and DFUSPWM are elaborated. Two possible connections for the NPC cell are introduced, and detailed NPC topology derivation procedures are also provided. All existing NPC topologies are derived, and twenty-two new NPC topologies are found based on the new topology derivation methodology for a single-phase, full-bridge, transformerless inverter.
Chemical Fingerprinting of Wood Sampled along a Pith-to-Bark Gradient for Individual Comparison and Provenance Identification
Authors: Deklerck Victor , Lancaster Cady A. , Van Acker Joris , Espinoza Edgard O. , Van den Bulcke Jan , Beeckman Hans
Published: January 2020

Background and Objectives: The origin of traded timber is one of the main questions in the enforcement of regulations to combat the illegal timber trade. Substantial efforts are still needed to develop techniques that can determine the exact geographical provenance of timber and this is vital to counteract the destructive effects of illegal logging, ranging from economical loss to habitat destruction. The potential of chemical fingerprints from pith-to-bark growth rings for individual comparison and geographical provenance determination is explored. Materials and Methods: A wood sliver was sampled per growth ring from four stem disks from four individuals of Pericopsis elata (Democratic Republic of the Congo) and from 14 stem disks from 14 individuals of Terminalia superba (Côte d’Ivoire and Democratic Republic of the Congo). Chemical fingerprints were obtained by analyzing these wood slivers with Direct Analysis in Real Time Time-Of-Flight Mass Spectrometry (DART TOFMS). Results: Individual distinction for both species was achieved but the accuracy was dependent on the dataset size and number of individuals included. As this is still experimental, we can only speak of individual comparison and not individual distinction at this point. The prediction accuracy for the country of origin increases with increasing sample number and a random sample can be placed in the correct country. When a complete disk is removed from the training dataset, its rings (samples) are correctly attributed to the country with an accuracy ranging from 43% to 100%. Relative abundances of ions appear to contribute more to differentiation compared to frequency differences. Conclusions: DART TOFMS shows potential for geographical provenancing but is still experimental for individual distinction; more research is needed to make this an established method. Sampling campaigns should focus on sampling tree cores from pith-to-bark, paving the way towards a chemical fingerprint database for species provenance.
Evaluation of Antioxidant Systems and Ascorbate-Glutathione Cycle in Feijoa Edible Flowers at Different Flowering Stages
Authors: Magri Anna , Adiletta Giuseppina , Petriccione Milena
Published: January 2020

Background: Feijoa (Acca sellowiana (O. Berg)) was initially introduced as an ornamental plant, but nowadays, it is widely cultivated for the numerous beneficial properties of its edible fruits. Feijoa flowers have been included in the list of edible flowers, but despite this, they are still considered niche products due to consumer skepticism and lack of publicity. Methods: This study evaluated the physicochemical traits, antioxidant system, and ascorbate-glutathione cycle in feijoa flowers at five flowering stages based on the Biologische Bundesanstalt, Bundessortenamt und CHemische Industrie (BBCH) scale. Results: The results showed that the optimal stage to harvest feijoa flower is the F2 stage characterized by high bioactive compounds content. Furthermore, the enzymes involved in oxidative stress and the ascorbate-glutathione cycle showed different trends during the flowering stages. Conclusions: This study provides new evidence to understand the possible role of bioactive compounds and ascorbate-glutathione cycle in the regulation of flower development, defining the optimal stage to harvest flowers.
Transmission of Functional, Wild-Type Mitochondria and the Fittest mtDNA to the Next Generation: Bottleneck Phenomenon, Balbiani Body, and Mitophagy
Authors: Tworzydlo Waclaw , Sekula Malgorzata , Bilinski Szczepan M.
Published: January 2020

The most important role of mitochondria is to supply cells with metabolic energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). As synthesis of ATP molecules is accompanied by the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is highly vulnerable to impairment and, consequently, accumulation of deleterious mutations. In most animals, mitochondria are transmitted to the next generation maternally, i.e., exclusively from female germline cells (oocytes and eggs). It has been suggested, in this context, that a specialized mechanism must operate in the developing oocytes enabling escape from the impairment and subsequent transmission of accurate (devoid of mutations) mtDNA from one generation to the next. Literature survey suggest that two distinct and irreplaceable pathways of mitochondria transmission may be operational in various animal lineages. In some taxa, the mitochondria are apparently selected: functional mitochondria with high inner membrane potential are transferred to the cells of the embryo, whereas those with low membrane potential (overloaded with mutations in mtDNA) are eliminated by mitophagy. In other species, the respiratory activity of germline mitochondria is suppressed and ROS production alleviated leading to the same final effect, i.e., transmission of undamaged mitochondria to offspring, via an entirely different route.
An Alternative Empirical Model to Estimate Watershed Sediment Yield Based on Hydrology and Geomorphology of the Basin in Data-Scarce Rift Valley Lake Regions, Ethiopia
Authors: Aga Alemu O. , Melesse Assefa M. , Chane Bayou
Published: January 2020

Physical-based soil erosion models are playing an important role in the assessment of soil erosion, transportation, and deposition in the watershed. Most of these models were developed for data-rich areas of the world and they need a measured data to calibrate and validate their results. To apply such physical-based models, the main factor hindering is the lack of measured sediment data. The amount of sediment in the fluvial systems is the result of hydro-geomorphological processes of a watershed and the nature of stream flows. Therefore, this study aims to develop an alternative empirical model that generates the observed sediment data based on the hydro-geomorphology and nature of stream flows for Ziway Lake basin in the rift Valley of Ethiopia. By applying Soil and water Assessment Tool (SWAT), the lake basin was divided in to two sub-basins (Maki and Katar) with 26 of the watersheds within Maki. The SWAT model was calibrated and validated for both stream and sediment flow by using SUFI-2 program and its performance was assessed by using model evaluation statistics. With calibrated sediment flow rates of 26 Maki sub basins, an empirical model was developed by using its respective drainage area, average sub-basins slope, surface runoff, soil erodibility factor, stream flow rate, and average rive slopes. The applicability of the newly developed alternative model was tested by using model evaluation statistics and validated inside of Katar sub-basin. It is recommended to test the developed model in other basins to incorporate with SWAT CUP program to calibrate and validate the sediment yield at data scared area.
“I’m Still on Track”: A Qualitative Exploration of Participant Experiences of a Weight Loss Maintenance Program
Authors: McGill Bronwyn , O’Hara Blythe J. , Phongsavan Philayrath , Bauman Adrian , Lawler Luke , Grunseit Anne C.
Published: January 2020

Qualitative evidence of participants’ experiences of real-life weight loss maintenance programs is important for ongoing participant engagement and can inform program improvements. The purpose of this study was to understand how participants account for their engagement with a weight loss maintenance program and the role of the program in their weight management. A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with 17 participants of a weight loss maintenance program was conducted; common themes were identified using a thematic inductive approach. Many participant narratives incorporated recurrent descriptions of their program experiences as a weight management journey. Our analysis generated four themes: returning to real life as a threat, the personal responsibility imperative, the program supporting agency and the program supporting self-regulation. The program, which provides external support and strategies, overlapped with the context of returning to real life and the personal responsibility imperative. Participant accounts of their journey at this intersection include the program supporting both agency and self-regulation which influences ongoing weight management. The interplay between themes identified and the maintenance program services allows compatibility between participants’ sense of personal responsibility and the program components to help participants to ‘stay on track’ or ‘get back on track’. In providing sufficient structure, opportunities to revisit successful strategies, and accountability, participants are empowered to overcome real-life threats and make positive health choices.
Augmenting the Pressure-Based Pasteurization of Listeria monocytogenes by Synergism with Nisin and Mild Heat
Authors: Aras Sadiye , Kabir Md Niamul , Chowdhury Shahid , Fouladkhah Aliyar Cyrus
Published: January 2020

The current study investigated Listeria monocytogenes inactivation using mild heat with elevated hydrostatic pressure and nisin under buffered condition. A four-strain pathogen mixture was exposed to 0 (control) and up to 9 min of (1) 4 °C elevated pressure; (2) 4 °C elevated pressure and nisin; (3) 4 °C nisin; (4) heat at 40 °C; (5) 40 °C elevated pressure; (6) 40 °C elevated pressure and nisin; and (7) 40 °C nisin. Elevated hydrostatic pressure at 400 MPa (Hub880 Explorer, Pressure BioScience Inc., Easton, MA, USA) and nisin concentration of 5000 IU/mL were used in the trials. Analyses of variance were conducted, followed by Dunnett’s- and Tukey-adjusted means separations. Under conditions of these experiments, nisin augmented (p < 0.05) decontamination efficacy of 40 °C heat and elevated hydrostatic pressure treatments, particularly at treatment interval of 3 min. This synergism with nisin faded away (p ≥ 0.05) as the treatment time for thermal, high-pressure, and thermal-assisted pressure processing increased. The results of our study, thus, exhibit that practitioners and stakeholders of pressure-based technologies could benefit from synergism of mild heat and nisin for short-term, high-pressure pasteurization treatments to achieve microbial safety and economic feasibility comparable to traditional heat-treated products.
Uncertainty Analysis of Remote Sensing Pretreatment for Biomass Estimation on Landsat OLI and Landsat ETM+
Authors: Zhang Qi , Xu Lihua , Zhang Maozhen , Wang Zhi , Gu Zhangfeng , Wu Yaqi , Shi Yijun , Lu Zhangwei
Published: January 2020

The accurate quantification of biomass helps to understand forest productivity and carbon cycling dynamics. Research on uncertainty during pretreatment is still lacking despite it being one of the major sources of uncertainty and an essential step in biomass estimation. In this study, we investigated pretreatment uncertainty and conducted a comparative study on the uncertainty of three optical imagery preprocessing stages (radiometric calibration, atmospheric and terrain correction) in biomass estimation. A combination of statistical models (random forest) and multisource data (Landsat enhanced thematic mapper plus (ETM+), Landsat operational land imager (OLI), national forest inventory (NFI)) was used to estimate forest biomass. Particularly, mean absolute error (MAE) and relative error (RE) were used to assess and quantify the uncertainty of each pretreatment, while the coefficient of determination (R2) was employed to evaluate the accuracy of the model. The results obtained show that random forest (RF) and 10-fold cross validation algorithms provided reliable accuracy for biomass estimation to better understand the uncertainty in pretreatments. In this study, there was a considerable uncertainty in biomass estimation using original OLI and ETM+ images from. Uncertainty was lower after data processing, emphasizing the importance of pretreatments for improving accuracy in biomass estimation. Further, the effects of three pretreatments on uncertainty of biomass estimation were objectively quantified. In this study (results of test sample), a 33.70% uncertainty was found in biomass estimation using original images from the OLI, and a 34.28% uncertainty in ETM+. Radiometric calibration slightly increased the uncertainty of biomass estimation (OLI increased by 1.38%, ETM+ increased by 2.08%). Moreover, atmospheric correction (5.56% for OLI, 4.41% for ETM+) and terrain correction (1.00% for OLI, 1.67% for ETM+) significantly reduced uncertainty for OLI and ETM+, respectively. This is an important development in the field of improving the accuracy of biomass estimation by remote sensing. Notably, the three pretreatments presented the same trend in uncertainty during biomass estimation using OLI and ETM+. This may exhibit the same effects in other optical images. This article aims to quantify uncertainty in pretreatment and to analyze the resultant effects to provide a theoretical basis for improving the accuracy of biomass estimation.
Integrated Visualization Approach for Real-Time and Dynamic Assessment of Storm Surge Disasters for China’s Seas
Authors: Zhou Lin , Hu Wei , Jia Zhen , Li Xinfang , Li Yaru , Su Tianyun , Guo Qingsheng
Published: January 2020

For improved prevention and reduction of marine disasters, China’s marine authorities and emergency response agencies require a solution that provides risk assessment, early warning, and decision-making support. This paper proposes a comprehensive approach to disaster assessment that involves automated long-term operation, a spatial information visualization method and systematic integration. The proposed approach provides functions for numerical ocean models with forecast results, automated processing of massive data, multiple disaster/element coupled assessment, and multidimensional display and expression. With regard to storm surge disasters, the approach proposed in this paper adopts a four-tier structure and the functions of each tier are described separately. The original data are comprised of a combination of statistical analysis data and real-time data obtained from the unstructured grid Finite Volume Community Ocean Model. Automated data processing methods and assessment theories incorporating an indicator system and weighted parameters are used for the assessment. By applying 2D/3D visualization technology, assessment results are displayed via several modes for ease of operation and comprehension. The validity of the approach was verified by applying it to Typhoon Hato (No. 1713). Compared with the results of the post-disaster investigation, the assessment results of the proposed approach proved the reliability of the system.
Developing Web-Based and Mobile-Based GIS for Places of Worship Information to Support Halal Tourism: A Case Study in Bukittinggi, Indonesia
Authors: Afnarius Surya , Akbar Fajril , Yuliani Fitri
Published: January 2020

Indonesia is an archipelago country in which the tourism sector plays a role as an economic locomotive. In 2016, Indonesia joined the World Halal Tourism Award (WHTA) and won 12 awards, three of which were won by West Sumatra. Bukittinggi is the principal city of tourism in West Sumatra. There are many halal hotels and restaurants and 190 mosques available in the city. Unfortunately, the information regarding the mosque locations is still inadequate. For this reason, this research was conducted in order to develop a web-based and mobile-based geographic information system (GIS) for places of worship information (GPWI) to make it easier for Muslim tourists to find mosques, and other tourism objects and facilities. This paper reports on the development of the GPWI. The development of the GPWI employed the waterfall method. The GPWI allowed tourists to find mosques based on specific criteria, whose output showed them the location, information, route, and local transportation available to get to the mosques as well as other tourism objects and facilities around the mosque. The GPWI was developed using Free Open Source Software (FOSS) PostgreSQL/PostGIS, PHP, JavaScript, and Basic4Android. The spatial-based database and programs that were used to develop this GPWI are the main contributions of this study. Based on the product evaluation, the GPWI successfully met the needs of Muslim tourists in finding mosques during their visits to Bukittinggi.
A Spatial Analytics Framework to Investigate Electric Power-Failure Events and Their Causes
Authors: Sultan Vivian , Hilton Brian
Published: January 2020

The U.S. electric-power infrastructure urgently needs renovation. Recent major power outages in California, New York, Texas, and Florida have highlighted U.S. electric-power unreliability. The media have discussed the U.S. aging power infrastructure and the Public Utilities Commission has demanded a comprehensive review of the causes of recent power outages. This paper explores geographic information systems (GIS) and a spatially enhanced predictive power-outage model to address: How may spatial analytics enhance our understanding of power outages? To answer this research question, we developed a spatial analysis framework that utilities can use to investigate power-failure events and their causes. Analysis revealed areas of statistically significant power outages due to multiple causes. This study’s GIS model can help to advance smart-grid reliability by, for example, elucidating power-failure root causes, defining a data-responsive blackout solution, or implementing a continuous monitoring and management solution. We unveil a novel use of spatial analytics to enhance power-outage understanding. Future work may involve connecting to virtually any type of streaming-data feed and transforming GIS applications into frontline decision applications, showing power-outage incidents as they occur. GIS can be a major resource for electronic-inspection systems to lower the duration of customer outages, improve crew response time, as well as reduce labor and overtime costs.
Linguistic Pythagorean Einstein Operators and Their Application to Decision Making
Authors: Rong Yuan , Pei Zheng , Liu Yi
Published: January 2020

Linguistic Pythagorean fuzzy (LPF) set is an efficacious technique to comprehensively represent uncertain assessment information by combining the Pythagorean fuzzy numbers and linguistic variables. In this paper, we define several novel essential operations of LPF numbers based upon Einstein operations and discuss several relations between these operations. For solving the LPF numbers fusion problem, several LPF aggregation operators, including LPF Einstein weighted averaging (LPFEWA) operator, LPF Einstein weighted geometric (LPFEWG) operator and LPF Einstein hybrid operator, are propounded; the prominent characteristics of these operators are investigated as well. Furthermore, a multi-attribute group decision making (MAGDM) approach is presented on the basis of the developed operators under an LPF environment. Ultimately, two application cases are utilized to demonstrate the practicality and feasibility of the developed decision approach and the comparison analysis is provided to manifest the merits of it.
A Revision of the Buechner–Tavani Model of Digital Trust and a Philosophical Problem It Raises for Social Robotics
Authors: Buechner Jeff
Published: January 2020

In this paper the Buechner–Tavani model of digital trust is revised—new conditions for self-trust are incorporated into the model. These new conditions raise several philosophical problems concerning the idea of a substantial self for social robotics, which are closely examined. I conclude that reductionism about the self is incompatible with, while the idea of a substantial self is compatible with, trust relations between human agents, between human agents and artificial agents, and between artificial agents.