bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immune-Endocrine Interactions in the Fish Gonad during Infection: An Open Door to Vertical Transmission
Authors: Valero Yulema , Cuesta Alberto , Cammarata Matteo , Esteban María Angeles , Chaves-Pozo Elena
Published: June 2018

The interaction between the immune and endocrine systems has long been recognized in vertebrates. In fish, it is known that the prevalence and intensity of such infections are higher in males than in females and probably related to sex steroid hormone levels. In addition, the immune response in the fish gonad tissues is specifically regulated to prevent infertility. This condition is used by some pathogens to colonize the fish gonad, evade the systemic immune response, and so spread to the progeny. This review brings up to date our knowledge concerning fish gonad immunity and its regulation, immune-endocrine interactions, and how some pathogens use this tissue to spread to the progeny through vertical transmission. More specifically, we will look at the case of the European sea bass and nodavirus (NNV). Sea bass is a very susceptible fish species to NNV infections, and this virus has been associated to vertical transmission since it is detected in gonad fluids as well as in testicular gametes. In fact, sea bass immunity in the gonad is regulated in a very different way to other target tissues (brain and retina) or immune-relevant tissues (head-kidney or spleen).
Cytogenetics in Arctica islandica (Bivalvia, Arctidae): the Longest Lived Non-Colonial Metazoan
Authors: García-Souto Daniel , Pasantes Juan J.
Published: June 2018

Due to its extraordinary longevity and wide distribution, the ocean quahog Arctica islandica has become an important species model in both aging and environmental change research. Notwithstanding that, most genetic studies on ocean quahogs have been focused on fishery related, phylogeographic and phylogenetic aspects but nothing is known about their chromosomes. In this work, the chromosomes of the ocean quahog Arctica islandica were analysed by means of 4′,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI)/propidium iodide (PI) staining and fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) with rDNA, histone gene and telomeric probes. Whilst both 5S rDNA and 45S rDNA were clustered at single subcentromeric locations on the long arms of chromosome pairs 2 and 12, respectively, histone gene clusters located on the short arms of chromosome pairs 7, 10 and 17. As happens with most bivalves, the location of the vertebrate type telomeric sequence clusters was restricted to chromosome ends. The knowledge of the karyotype can facilitate the anchoring of genomic sequences to specific chromosome pairs in this species.
The Impact of Road Construction on Subjective Well-Being in Communities in Madre de Dios, Peru
Authors: Riley-Powell Amy R. , Lee Gwenyth O. , Naik Nehal S. , Jensen Kelly E. , O’Neal Christina , Salmón-Mulanovich Gabriela , Hartinger Stella M. , Bausch Daniel G. , Paz-Soldan Valerie A.
Published: June 2018

The interoceanic highway (IOH) in Madre de Dios, Peru has driven dramatic change in the Peruvian Amazon basin. We conducted a mixed methods study to examine the impact of these changes on the subjective well-being (SWB) of four communities on the IOH. Themes that emerged qualitatively included changing health threats, environmental degradation, and the impact of increased migration. To achieve a higher level of SWB, respondents emphasized the need for higher incomes, opportunities to learn new skills, and a better education for their children. Potential threats to SWB included marital problems and poorer health. Quantitative analyses suggested that social support and a sense of security impacted reported SWB scores based on life satisfaction, and the impact of income on life satisfaction was mediated by food security. Although long-term residents felt that specific determinants of SWB had both increased (food variety, transport and access to work) and decreased (access to natural resources and hunting), the majority reported that their lives had improved overall. Health had been affected by the IOH in both negative ways (increased dengue and road accidents) and positive ways (improved access to health services). Our results suggest that the rapidly-changing communities near the IOH link well-being to health, income, community, and the environment.
Regulation of von-Willebrand Factor Secretion from Endothelial Cells by the Annexin A2-S100A10 Complex
Authors: Holthenrich Anna , Gerke Volker
Published: June 2018

Endothelial cells serve as gatekeepers of vascular hemostasis and local inflammatory reactions. They can rapidly respond to changes in the environment, caused, for example, by blood vessel injury, tissue damage or infection, by secreting in a strictly regulated manner factors regulating these processes. These factors include adhesion receptors for circulating leukocytes and platelets, P-selectin and von-Willebrand factor (VWF) that are stored in specialized secretory granules of endothelial cells, the Weibel-Palade bodies (WPB). Acute exposure of these adhesion molecules converts the endothelial cell surface from an anti-adhesive state enabling unrestricted flow of circulating blood cells to an adhesive one capable of capturing leukocytes (through P-selectin) and platelets (through VWF). While these are important (patho)physiological responses, compromised or dysregulated WPB secretion can cause pathologies such as excessive bleeding or vascular occlusion. Several factors are involved in regulating the exocytosis of WPB and thus represent potential targets for therapeutic interventions in these pathologies. Among them, the annexin A2 (AnxA2)-S100A10 complex has been shown to participate in the tethering/docking of secretion-competent WPB at the plasma membrane, and interference with AnxA2/S100A10 expression or complex formation significantly reduces acute WPB exocytosis and VWF release. Thus, developing specific means to efficiently block AnxA2-S100A10 complex formation in endothelial cells could lead to novel avenues towards interfering with acute vascular thrombosis.
Metabolomics in Plant Priming Research: The Way Forward?
Authors: Tugizimana Fidele , Mhlongo Msizi I. , Piater Lizelle A. , Dubery Ian A.
Published: June 2018

A new era of plant biochemistry at the systems level is emerging, providing detailed descriptions of biochemical phenomena at the cellular and organismal level. This new era is marked by the advent of metabolomics—the qualitative and quantitative investigation of the entire metabolome (in a dynamic equilibrium) of a biological system. This field has developed as an indispensable methodological approach to study cellular biochemistry at a global level. For protection and survival in a constantly-changing environment, plants rely on a complex and multi-layered innate immune system. This involves surveillance of ‘self’ and ‘non-self,’ molecule-based systemic signalling and metabolic adaptations involving primary and secondary metabolites as well as epigenetic modulation mechanisms. Establishment of a pre-conditioned or primed state can sensitise or enhance aspects of innate immunity for faster and stronger responses. Comprehensive elucidation of the molecular and biochemical processes associated with the phenotypic defence state is vital for a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms that define the metabolism of plant–pathogen interactions. Such insights are essential for translational research and applications. Thus, this review highlights the prospects of metabolomics and addresses current challenges that hinder the realisation of the full potential of the field. Such limitations include partial coverage of the metabolome and maximising the value of metabolomics data (extraction of information and interpretation). Furthermore, the review points out key features that characterise both the plant innate immune system and enhancement of the latter, thus underlining insights from metabolomic studies in plant priming. Future perspectives in this inspiring area are included, with the aim of stimulating further studies leading to a better understanding of plant immunity at the metabolome level.
Translational Regenerative Therapies for Chronic Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Dalamagkas Kyriakos , Tsintou Magdalini , Seifalian Amelia , Seifalian Alexander M.
Published: June 2018

Spinal cord injury is a chronic and debilitating neurological condition that is currently being managed symptomatically with no real therapeutic strategies available. Even though there is no consensus on the best time to start interventions, the chronic phase is definitely the most stable target in order to determine whether a therapy can effectively restore neurological function. The advancements of nanoscience and stem cell technology, combined with the powerful, novel neuroimaging modalities that have arisen can now accelerate the path of promising novel therapeutic strategies from bench to bedside. Several types of stem cells have reached up to clinical trials phase II, including adult neural stem cells, human spinal cord stem cells, olfactory ensheathing cells, autologous Schwann cells, umbilical cord blood-derived mononuclear cells, adult mesenchymal cells, and autologous bone-marrow-derived stem cells. There also have been combinations of different molecular therapies; these have been either alone or combined with supportive scaffolds with nanostructures to facilitate favorable cell–material interactions. The results already show promise but it will take some coordinated actions in order to develop a proper step-by-step approach to solve impactful problems with neural repair.
The Role of Low-Density Lipoprotein Receptor-Related Protein 1 in Lipid Metabolism, Glucose Homeostasis and Inflammation
Authors: Actis Dato Virginia , Chiabrando Gustavo Alberto
Published: June 2018

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a highly prevalent disorder which can be used to identify individuals with a higher risk for cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. This metabolic syndrome is characterized by a combination of physiological, metabolic, and molecular alterations such as insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and central obesity. The low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1—A member of the LDL receptor family) is an endocytic and signaling receptor that is expressed in several tissues. It is involved in the clearance of chylomicron remnants from circulation, and has been demonstrated to play a key role in the lipid metabolism at the hepatic level. Recent studies have shown that LRP1 is involved in insulin receptor (IR) trafficking and intracellular signaling activity, which have an impact on the regulation of glucose homeostasis in adipocytes, muscle cells, and brain. In addition, LRP1 has the potential to inhibit or sustain inflammation in macrophages, depending on its cellular expression, as well as the presence of particular types of ligands in the extracellular microenvironment. In this review, we summarize existing perspectives and the latest innovations concerning the role of tissue-specific LRP1 in lipoprotein and glucose metabolism, and examine its ability to mediate inflammatory processes related to MetS and atherosclerosis.
Annexins in Translational Research: Hidden Treasures to Be Found
Authors: Schloer Sebastian , Pajonczyk Denise , Rescher Ursula
Published: June 2018

The vertebrate annexin superfamily (AnxA) consists of 12 members of a calcium (Ca2+) and phospholipid binding protein family which share a high structural homology. In keeping with this hallmark feature, annexins have been implicated in the Ca2+-controlled regulation of a broad range of membrane events. In this review, we identify and discuss several themes of annexin actions that hold a potential therapeutic value, namely, the regulation of the immune response and the control of tissue homeostasis, and that repeatedly surface in the annexin activity profile. Our aim is to identify and discuss those annexin properties which might be exploited from a translational science and specifically, a clinical point of view.
Functionalized Electrospun Poly(Vinyl Alcohol) Nanofibrous Membranes with Poly(Methyl Vinyl Ether-Alt-Maleic Anhydride) for Protein Adsorption
Authors: Najafi Mesbah , Chery Joronia , Frey Margaret M.
Published: June 2018

In this work, electrospun poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) nanofiber membranes were functionalized by incorporating poly(methyl vinyl ether-alt-maleic anhydride) (poly(MVE/MA), PMA) for the selective adsorption of proteins. The capture performance was regulated by an optimizing buffer pH, PMA content, and protein concentration. Lysozyme was used as the model protein and a high adsorption capacity of 476.53 ± 19.48 was obtained at pH 6, owing to the electrostatic attraction between the negatively charged nanofibers and positively charged proteins. The large specific surface area, highly open porous structure, and abundant available carboxyl groups contributed to such high adsorption performance. Moreover, the nanofiber membranes exhibited good reusability and good selectivity for positively charged proteins. The obtained results can provide a promising method for the purification of proteins in small analytic devices.
Three Dimensional Methodology to Characterize Large Dendritic Equiaxed Grains in Industrial Steel Ingots
Authors: Gennesson Marvin , Zollinger Julien , Daloz Dominique , Rouat Bernard , Demurger Joëlle , Combeau Hervé
Published: June 2018

The primary phase grain size is a key parameter to understand the formation of the macrosegregation pattern in large steel ingots. Most of the characterization techniques use two-dimensional measurements. In this paper, a characterization method has been developed for equiaxed dendritic grains in industrial steel castings. A total of 383 contours were drawn two-dimensionally on twelve 6.6 cm2slices. A three-dimensional reconstruction method is performed to obtain 171 three-dimensional grains. Data regarding the size, shape and orientation of equiaxed grains is presented and thereby shows that equiaxed grains are centimeter-scale complex objects. They appear to be a poly-dispersed collection of non-isotropic objects possessing preferential orientations. In addition, the volumetric grain number density is 2.2×107 grains/m3, which compares to the 0.5×107 grains/m3 that can be obtained with estimation from 2D measurements. The 2.2×107 grains/m3 value is ten-times smaller than that previously used in the literature to simulate the macrosegregation profile in the same 6.2 ton ingot.
Preparation and Performance Analysis of Modified Sodium Acetate Trihydrate
Authors: Hua Weisan , Zhang Xuelai , Muthoka Munyalo Jotham , Han Xingchao
Published: June 2018

In order to solve undercooling and phase separation of sodium acetate trihydrate (SAT), experimental screening method was used to select nucleating agents and thickeners that are suitable for SAT, and the optimal ratio was identified. Through screening experiments of nucleating agents, it is found that disodium hydrogen phosphate can be used as an effective nucleating agent for SAT. When the weight content of disodium hydrogen phosphate in SAT is 2%, the degree of undercooling was reduced to approximately 2 K. The addition of 1–1.5% (weight) of xanthan gum (XG) to SAT can effectively inhibit the phase separation. Since the properties of SAT changes after the modification, the corresponding comparison analysis was performed. The results showed that XG has a significant influence on the SAT performance of SAT. With the addition of 1.5 wt % of XG in pure SAT, the latent heat of fusion and solid/liquid volume expansion reduce by 5.2% and 5.4% respectively, and the thermal conductivity and solid/liquid density also decreases accordingly.
Grain Size Effect on the Hot Ductility of High-Nitrogen Austenitic Stainless Steel in the Presence of Precipitates
Authors: Wang Zhenhua , Wang Yong , Wang Chengming
Published: June 2018

Precipitation occurs easily during the hot forming of high-nitrogen austenitic stainless steels, which reduces their hot ductility significantly. The effect of grain size on the hot ductility of high-nitrogen austenitic stainless steel in the presence of precipitates was investigated. Different grain sizes of 18Mn18Cr0.5N steel specimens, with and without precipitates, were hot-tension tested. The precipitate morphology, fracture surface, and cracks were studied by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and electron backscatter diffraction analysis. For the 18Mn18Cr0.5N steel, damage-formation strains of all grain-size specimens were reduced by the precipitates during the hot-tension test. Crack-formation sites were located at grain boundaries and were independent of the Taylor factor. A larger grain size resulted in an increased sensitivity of the fracture strain to precipitates. When the grain size was smaller than 51 μm, the fracture strain became insensitive to the precipitates. A method was suggested to mitigate surface cracking for metal materials with a high precipitation tendency.
Neuronal Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor Modulators from Cone Snails
Authors: Abraham Nikita , Lewis Richard J.
Published: June 2018

Marine cone snails are a large family of gastropods that have evolved highly potent venoms for predation and defense. The cone snail venom has exceptional molecular diversity in neuropharmacologically active compounds, targeting a range of receptors, ion channels, and transporters. These conotoxins have helped to dissect the structure and function of many of these therapeutically significant targets in the central and peripheral nervous systems, as well as unravelling the complex cellular mechanisms modulated by these receptors and ion channels. This review provides an overview of α-conotoxins targeting neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. The structure and activity of both classical and non-classical α-conotoxins are discussed, along with their contributions towards understanding nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) structure and function.
Collagen from Cartilaginous Fish By-Products for a Potential Application in Bioactive Film Composite
Authors: Ben Slimane Emna , Sadok Saloua
Published: June 2018

The acid solubilised collagen (ASC) and pepsin solubilised collagen (PSC) were extracted from the by-products (skin) of a cartilaginous fish (Mustelus mustelus). The ASC and PSC yields were 23.07% and 35.27% dry weight, respectively and were identified as collagen Type I with the presence of α, β and γ chains. As revealed by the Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectra analysis, pepsin did not alter the PSC triple helix structure. Based on the various type of collagen yield, only PSC was used in combination with chitosan to produce a composite film. Such film had lower tensile strength but higher elongation at break when compared to chitosan film; and lower water solubility and lightness when compared to collagen film. Equally, FTIR spectra analysis of film composite showed the occurrence of collagen-chitosan interaction resulting in a modification of the secondary structure of collagen. Collagen-chitosan-based biofilm showed a potential UV barrier properties and antioxidant activity, which might be used as green bioactive films to preserve nutraceutical products.
Image quality of 16-slice computed tomography coronary angiography in patients with complete left bundle branch block
Authors: Jankauskas Antanas , Zaveckienė Jurgita , Pundziūtė Gabija , Šlapikas Rimvydas , Basevičius Algidas , Žaliūnas Remigijus
Published: June 2018

Objective. Noninvasive diagnosis of coronary artery disease in patients with left bundle branch block is challenging. Multislice computed tomography can be useful in this population; however, quality of images depends on the patterns of myocardial contractions. We investigated the influence of left bundle branch block on image quality of multislice computed tomography coronary angiography. Materials and methods. Multislice computed tomography coronary angiography was performed in 30 patients with left bundle branch block and 30 patients without conduction disturbances. Image quality of each coronary segment was visually assessed and rated on a five-point scale (1=highest quality). Results. Average image quality score in the best cardiac cycle phase did not differ significantly between groups (1.71±0.59 in the left bundle branch block group vs. 1.60±0.57 in the control group, P=0.46). In the left bundle branch block group, a significantly lower image quality score was observed in end-systolic cardiac phase (2.67±0.6 vs. 2.22±0.65 in the control group, P=0.007), whereas no difference was demonstrated in mid-diastolic phase (1.73±0.6 vs. 1.69±0.66 in the control group, P=0.81). After image assessment in multiple cardiac phases, an increase in image quality score was higher in the left bundle branch block than in the control group (0.2±0.17 vs. 0.11±0.14, P=0.003). A negative correlation was observed between image quality score and both the heart rate and heart rate variability in both groups (P<0.001). Conclusion. A nonsignificantly lower overall image quality of multislice computed tomography coronary angiography was demonstrated in the left bundle branch block group. In the presence of left bundle branch block, image quality in the end-systolic phase was significantly lower. Image assessment in multiple phases increased overall image quality and is therefore advisable in patients with left bundle branch block. Increased heart rate and heart rate variability worsened image quality in both groups.
A dynamic systems approach to bimanual coordination in stroke: implications for rehabilitation and research
Authors: Sleimen-Malkoun Rita , Temprado Jean-Jacques , Berton Eric
Published: June 2018

During the last 30 years, the dynamic systems approach to coordination patterns contributed to shed new lights on the principles governing interlimb coordination, its dynamics, and its neural basis, predominantly in healthy people. In the present paper, we aim to show how these concepts could provide a theoretical and a methodological framework to address bimanual coordination dysfunction and rehabilitation in stroke patients. Compared to conventional approaches to research and rehabilitation in stroke, the one proposed in this paper is original since it seeks to assess and improve the impaired limb through (and in) coordination tasks. We concretely envisage a number of implications of the “dynamic systems” view to understand the behavioral consequences of intrinsic asymmetries (due to central nervous system injury) on bimanual dynamics in stroke and to identify how to exploit the central nervous system plasticity and self-organizing properties for recovering more adaptive coordinated movements. We conclude that more interest should be accorded to bimanual coordination assessment and rehabilitation in stroke. In this respect, the dynamical systems approach provides interesting insights and valuable tools. Experimental and clinical studies are still needed in order to elaborate fi rm and founded guidelines for therapy.
Functional state assessment on the dynamics of interparametric concatenations during exercise tests
Authors: Poderys Jonas , Venskaitytė Eurelija , Poderienė Kristina , Buliuolis Alfonsas , Vainoras Alfonsas
Published: June 2018

The aim of this study was to complement an analytical approach by new methodology of data sequences analysis of muscular and cardiovascular indices during the assessments of functional state. The participants of the study were 14 elite Greco-roman wrestlers and they underwent two exercise tests 30 squats per 45 s while 12-lead ECG was recorded continuously and 30-s vertical jumps test while the height, contact and flight times of each jump recorded. The parametric interactions parameters and their sequences analysis based on a mathematical method founded upon a matrix theory were applied. The obtained results enabled to identify dynamical changes of the independence of parameters or an opposite phenomenon – interaction. The dynamics of ECG or performance parameters did not allowed to fi nd out the moments of critical changes during the exercising. The dynamics of concatenation between the time of push-off and the height of jumps while performing repeated jumps has a tendency to increase in the values of discriminant and the fl uctuations at some point of jumping task comes on. Analysis of concatenation between ECG or muscle performance parameters allows distinguishing the individual peculiarities which could be in value of discriminant, in time of exercising before the fl uctuations occurs, in character how the body behave as to compensate fatigue. It was concluded that assessment the dynamics of inter-parametric concatenation of physiological parameters based on the data sequences analysis provide a new approach in the field of functional state assessment allowing to reveal features of functional preparedness and fatigability during workloads.
Miniaturization and High-Density Arrangement of Microcantilevers in Proximity and Tactile Sensor for Dexterous Gripping Control
Authors: Araki Ryoma , Abe Takashi , Noma Haruo , Sohgawa Masayuki
Published: June 2018

In this paper, in order to perform delicate and advanced grip control like human, a proximity and tactile combination sensor using miniaturized microcantilevers one-fifth the size of previous one as the detection part was newly developed. Microcantilevers were arranged with higher spatial density than in previous works and an interdigitated array electrode to enhance light sensitivity was added. It is found that the interdigitated array electrode can detect light with 1.6 times higher sensitivity than that in previous works and the newly fabricated microcantilevers have enough sensitivity to applied normal and shear loads. Therefore, more accurate detection of proximity distance and spatial distribution of contact force become available for dexterous gripping control to prevent ‘overshooting’, ‘force control error’, and ‘slipping’.
Editorial for the Special Issue on Advances in Optofluidics
Authors: Zhang Xuming
Published: June 2018

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High-Glucose or -Fructose Diet Cause Changes of the Gut Microbiota and Metabolic Disorders in Mice without Body Weight Change
Authors: Do Moon Ho , Lee Eunjung , Oh Mi-Jin , Kim Yoonsook , Park Ho-Young
Published: June 2018

High fat diet-induced changes in gut microbiota have been linked to intestinal permeability and metabolic endotoxemia, which is related to metabolic disorders. However, the influence of a high-glucose (HGD) or high-fructose (HFrD) diet on gut microbiota is largely unknown. We performed changes of gut microbiota in HGD- or HFrD-fed C57BL/6J mice by 16S rRNA analysis. Gut microbiota-derived endotoxin-induced metabolic disorders were evaluated by glucose and insulin tolerance test, gut permeability, Western blot and histological analysis. We found that the HGD and HFrD groups had comparatively higher blood glucose and endotoxin levels, fat mass, dyslipidemia, and glucose intolerance without changes in bodyweight. The HGD- and HFrD-fed mice lost gut microbial diversity, characterized by a lower proportion of Bacteroidetes and a markedly increased proportion of Proteobacteria. Moreover, the HGD and HFrD groups had increased gut permeability due to alterations to the tight junction proteins caused by gut inflammation. Hepatic inflammation and lipid accumulation were also markedly increased in the HGD and HFrD groups. High levels of glucose or fructose in the diet regulate the gut microbiota and increase intestinal permeability, which precedes the development of metabolic endotoxemia, inflammation, and lipid accumulation, ultimately leading to hepatic steatosis and normal-weight obesity.
Dose-Dependent Effects of Multispecies Probiotic Supplementation on the Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) Level and Cardiometabolic Profile in Obese Postmenopausal Women: A 12-Week Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Szulińska Monika , Łoniewski Igor , Van Hemert Saskia , Sobieska Magdalena , Bogdański Paweł
Published: June 2018

During the postmenopausal period, the risk of cardiovascular diseases is increased in many obese women and is associated with a worse cardiometabolic profile and a sub-chronic low-grade systemic inflammation caused by a gut barrier permeability dysfunction. Here, we tested whether administration of two different dosages of the multispecies probiotic Ecologic® Barrier influenced the cardiometabolic biochemical parameters and lipopolysaccharide levels, the latter used as a marker of increased gut permeability in obese postmenopausal women. A total of 81 obese Caucasian postmenopausal women participated in the trial. The subjects were randomly assigned to three groups that received a placebo, a low dose (LD) (2.5 × 109 colony forming units (CFU) per day), or a high dose (HD) (1 × 1010 CFU per day) of lyophilisate powder containing live multispecies probiotic bacteria. The probiotic supplement was administered each day in two equal portions for 12 weeks. We found significant (p < 0.05) favorable changes (mostly large or medium effects) in the evaluated parameters in both the HD and LD groups but not in the placebo group. In the HD group, lipopolysaccharide, waist, fat mass, subcutaneous fat, uric acid, total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, glucose, insulin, and insulin-resistant index (HOMA-IR) were improved. Similar changes were observed in the LD group, except for lipopolysaccharide, uric acid, triglycerides, and glucose levels. Additionally, significant differences were observed in both groups in terms of fat percentage and visceral fat. When the mean changes were compared between the three groups, statistically significant differences in lipopolysaccharide levels, uric acid, glucose, insulin, and HOMA-IR were found. Post hoc tests revealed significant differences in the mean changes (mostly medium effects) between the HD and LD groups for uric acid, glucose, insulin, and HOMA-IR. In the 12-week randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind intervention, we observed that supplementation with the multispecies probiotic Ecologic® Barrier favorably affected the risk factors in a dose-dependent manner, showing beneficial effects on the cardiometabolic parameters and gut permeability of the patients. Our results suggest that this product can be effective in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases in obese postmenopausal women.
East Africa Rainfall Trends and Variability 1983–2015 Using Three Long-Term Satellite Products
Authors: Cattani Elsa , Merino Andrés , Guijarro José , Levizzani Vincenzo
Published: June 2018

Daily time series from the Climate Prediction Center (CPC) Africa Rainfall Climatology version 2.0 (ARC2), Climate Hazards Group InfraRed Precipitation with Stations (CHIRPS) and Tropical Applications of Meteorology using SATellite (TAMSAT) African Rainfall Climatology And Time series version 2 (TARCAT) high-resolution long-term satellite rainfall products are exploited to study the spatial and temporal variability of East Africa (EA, 5S–20N, 28–52E) rainfall between 1983 and 2015. Time series of selected rainfall indices from the joint CCl/CLIVAR/JCOMM Expert Team on Climate Change Detection and Indices are computed at yearly and seasonal scales. Rainfall climatology and spatial patterns of variability are extracted via the analysis of the total rainfall amount (PRCPTOT), the simple daily intensity (SDII), the number of precipitating days (R1), the number of consecutive dry and wet days (CDD and CWD), and the number of very heavy precipitating days (R20). Our results show that the spatial patterns of such trends depend on the selected rainfall product, as much as on the geographic areas characterized by statistically significant trends for a specific rainfall index. Nevertheless, indications of rainfall trends were extracted especially at the seasonal scale. Increasing trends were identified for the October–November–December PRCPTOT, R1, and SDII indices over eastern EA, with the exception of Kenya. In March–April–May, rainfall is decreasing over a large part of EA, as demonstrated by negative trends of PRCPTOT, R1, CWD, and R20, even if a complete convergence of all satellite products is not achieved.
Comparison of Phenology Estimated from Reflectance-Based Indices and Solar-Induced Chlorophyll Fluorescence (SIF) Observations in a Temperate Forest Using GPP-Based Phenology as the Standard
Authors: Lu Xiaoliang , Liu Zhunqiao , Zhou Yuyu , Liu Yaling , An Shuqing , Tang Jianwu
Published: June 2018

We assessed the performance of reflectance-based vegetation indices and solar-induced chlorophyll fluorescence (SIF) datasets with various spatial and temporal resolutions in monitoring the Gross Primary Production (GPP)-based phenology in a temperate deciduous forest. The reflectance-based indices include the green chromatic coordinate (GCC), field measured and satellite remotely sensed Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI); and the SIF datasets include ground-based measurement and satellite-based products. We found that, if negative impacts due to coarse spatial and temporal resolutions are effectively reduced, all these data can serve as good indicators of phenological metrics for spring. However, the autumn phenological metrics derived from all reflectance-based datasets are later than the those derived from ground-based GPP estimates (flux sites). This is because the reflectance-based observations estimate phenology by tracking physiological properties including leaf area index (LAI) and leaf chlorophyll content (Chl), which does not reflect instantaneous changes in phenophase transitions, and thus the estimated fall phenological events may be later than GPP-based phenology. In contrast, we found that SIF has a good potential to track seasonal transition of photosynthetic activities in both spring and fall seasons. The advantage of SIF in estimating the GPP-based phenology lies in its inherent link to photosynthesis activities such that SIF can respond quickly to all factors regulating phenological events. Despite uncertainties in phenological metrics estimated from current spaceborne SIF observations due to their coarse spatial and temporal resolutions, dates in middle spring and autumn—the two most important metrics—can still be reasonably estimated from satellite SIF. Our study reveals that SIF provides a better way to monitor GPP-based phenological metrics.
Sampling Strategies to Improve Passive Optical Remote Sensing of River Bathymetry
Authors: Legleiter Carl , Overstreet Brandon , Kinzel Paul
Published: June 2018

Passive optical remote sensing of river bathymetry involves establishing a relation between depth and reflectance that can be applied throughout an image to produce a depth map. Building upon the Optimal Band Ratio Analysis (OBRA) framework, we introduce sampling strategies for constructing calibration data sets that lead to strong relationships between an image-derived quantity and depth across a range of depths. Progressively excluding observations that exceed a series of cutoff depths from the calibration process improved the accuracy of depth estimates and allowed the maximum detectable depth (dmax) to be inferred directly from an image. Depth retrieval in two distinct rivers also was enhanced by a stratified version of OBRA that partitions field measurements into a series of depth bins to avoid biases associated with under-representation of shallow areas in typical field data sets. In the shallower, clearer of the two rivers, including the deepest field observations in the calibration data set did not compromise depth retrieval accuracy, suggesting that dmax was not exceeded and the reach could be mapped without gaps. Conversely, in the deeper and more turbid stream, progressive truncation of input depths yielded a plausible estimate of dmax consistent with theoretical calculations based on field measurements of light attenuation by the water column. This result implied that the entire channel, including pools, could not be mapped remotely. However, truncation improved the accuracy of depth estimates in areas shallower than dmax, which comprise the majority of the channel and are of primary interest for many habitat-oriented applications.
Suitability Assessment of X-Band Satellite SAR Data for Geotechnical Monitoring of Site Scale Slow Moving Landslides
Authors: Bru Guadalupe , Escayo Joaquin , Fernández José , Mallorqui Jordi J. , Iglesias Rubén , Sansosti Eugenio , Abajo Tamara , Morales Antonio
Published: June 2018

This work addresses the suitability of using X-band Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) data for operational geotechnical monitoring of site scale slow moving landslides, affecting urban areas and infrastructures. The scale of these studies requires high resolution data. We propose a procedure for the practical use of SAR data in geotechnical landslides campaigns, that includes an appropriate dataset selection taking into account the scenario characteristics, a visibility analysis, and considerations when comparing advanced differential SAR interferometry (A-DInSAR) results with other monitoring techniques. We have determined that Sentinel-2 satellite optical images are suited for performing high resolution land cover classifications, which results in the achievement of qualitative visibility maps. We also concluded that A-DInSAR is a very powerful and versatile tool for detailed scale landslide monitoring, although in combination with other instrumentation techniques.
Retrieval of Aerosol Components Using Multi-Wavelength Mie-Raman Lidar and Comparison with Ground Aerosol Sampling
Authors: Hara Yukari , Nishizawa Tomoaki , Sugimoto Nobuo , Osada Kazuo , Yumimoto Keiya , Uno Itsushi , Kudo Rei , Ishimoto Hiroshi
Published: June 2018

We verified an algorithm using multi-wavelength Mie-Raman lidar (MMRL) observations to retrieve four aerosol components (black carbon (BC), sea salt (SS), air pollution (AP), and mineral dust (DS)) with in-situ aerosol measurements, and determined the seasonal variation of aerosol components in Fukuoka, in the western region of Japan. PM2.5, PM10, and mass concentrations of BC and SS components are derived from in-situ measurements. MMRL provides the aerosol extinction coefficient (α), particle linear depolarization ratio (δ), backscatter coefficient (β), and lidar ratio (S) at 355 and 532 nm, and the attenuated backscatter coefficient (βatt) at 1064 nm. We retrieved vertical distributions of extinction coefficients at 532 nm for four aerosol components (BC, SS, AP, and DS) using 1α532 + 1β532 + 1βatt,1064 + 1δ532 data of MMRL. The retrieved extinction coefficients of the four aerosol components at 532 nm were converted to mass concentrations using the theoretical computed conversion factor assuming the prescribed size distribution, particle shape, and refractive index for each aerosol component. MMRL and in-situ measurements confirmed that seasonal variation of aerosol optical properties was affected by internal/external mixing of various aerosol components, in addition to hygroscopic growth of water-soluble aerosols. MMRL overestimates BC mass concentration compared to in-situ observation using the pure BC model. This overestimation was reduced drastically by introducing the internal mixture model of BC and water-soluble substances (Core-Gray Shell (CGS) model). This result suggests that considering the internal mixture of BC and water-soluble substances is essential for evaluating BC mass concentration in this area. Systematic overestimation of BC mass concentration was found during summer, even when we applied the CGS model. The observational facts based on in-situ and MMRL measurements suggested that misclassification of AP as CGS particles was due to underestimation of relative humidity (RH) by the numerical model in lidar analysis, as well as mismatching of the optical models of AP and CGS assumed in the retrieval with aerosol properties in the actual atmosphere. The time variation of lidar-derived SS was generally consistent with in-situ measurement; however, we found some overestimation of SS during dust events. The cause of this SS overestimation is mainly due to misclassifying internally mixing DS as SS, implying that to consider internal mixing between DS and water-soluble substances leads to better estimation. The time-variations of PM2.5 and PM10 generally showed good agreement with in-situ measurement although lidar-derived PM2.5 and PM10 overestimated in dust events.
Satellite-Based Rainfall Retrieval: From Generalized Linear Models to Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Beusch Lea , Foresti Loris , Gabella Marco , Hamann Ulrich
Published: June 2018

In this study, we develop and compare satellite rainfall retrievals based on generalized linear models and artificial neural networks. Both approaches are used in classification mode in a first step to identify the precipitating areas (precipitation detection) and in regression mode in a second step to estimate the rainfall intensity at the ground (rain rate). The input predictors are geostationary satellite infrared (IR) brightness temperatures and Satellite Application Facility (SAF) nowcasting products which consist of cloud properties, such as cloud top height and cloud type. Additionally, a set of auxiliary location-describing input variables is employed. The output predictand is the ground-based instantaneous rain rate provided by the European-scale radar composite OPERA, that was additionally quality-controlled. We compare our results to a precipitation product which uses a single infrared (IR) channel for the rainfall retrieval. Specifically, we choose the operational PR-OBS-3 hydrology SAF product as a representative example for this type of approach. With generalized linear models, we show that we are able to substantially improve in terms of hits by considering more IR channels and cloud property predictors. Furthermore, we demonstrate the added value of using artificial neural networks to further improve prediction skill by additionally reducing false alarms. In the rain rate estimation, the indirect relationship between surface rain rates and the cloud properties measurable with geostationary satellites limit the skill of all models, which leads to smooth predictions close to the mean rainfall intensity. Probability matching is explored as a tool to recover higher order statistics to obtain a more realistic rain rate distribution.
Side-Scan Sonar Image Mosaic Using Couple Feature Points with Constraint of Track Line Positions
Authors: Zhao Jianhu , Shang Xiaodong , Zhang Hongmei
Published: June 2018

To obtain large-scale seabed surface image, this paper proposes a side-scan sonar (SSS) image mosaic method using couple feature points (CFPs) with constraint of track line positions. The SSS geocoded images are firstly used to form a coarsely mosaicked one and the overlapping areas between adjacent strip images can be determined based on geographic information. Inside the overlapping areas, the feature point (FP) detection and registration operation are adopted for both strips. According to the detected CFPs and track line positions, an adjustment model is established to accommodate complex local distortions as well as ensure the global stability. This proposed method effectively solves the problem of target ghosting or dislocation and no accumulated errors arise in the mosaicking process. Experimental results show that the finally mosaicked image correctly reflects the object distribution, which is meaningful for understanding and interpreting seabed topography.
Temporal Variability of MODIS Phenological Indices in the Temperate Rainforest of Northern Patagonia
Authors: Lara Carlos , Saldías Gonzalo , Paredes Alvaro , Cazelles Bernard , Broitman Bernardo
Published: June 2018

Western Patagonia harbors unique and sparsely studied terrestrial ecosystems that are threatened by land use changes and exposure to basin-scale climatic variability. We assessed the performance of two satellite vegetation indices derived from MODIS–Terra, EVI (Enhanced Vegetation Index) and NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index), over the northern and southern sectors of the Chiloé Island System (CIS) to advance our understanding of vegetation dynamics in the region. Then we examined their time-varying relationships with two climatic indices indicative of tropical and extratropical influence, the ENSO (El Niño–Southern Oscillation) and the Antarctic Oscillation (AAO) index, respectively. The 17-year time series showed that only EVI captured the seasonal pattern characteristic of temperate regions, with low (high) phenological activity during Autumn-Winter (Spring–Summer). NDVI saturated during the season of high productivity and failed to capture the seasonal cycle. Temporal patterns in productivity showed a weakened seasonal cycle during the past decade, particularly over the northern sector. We observed a non-stationary association between EVI and both climatic indices. Significant co-variation between EVI and the Niño–Southern Oscillation index in the annual band persisted from 2001 until 2008–2009; annual coherence with AAO prevailed from 2013 onwards and the 2009–2012 period was characterized by coherence between EVI and both climate indices over longer temporal scales. Our results suggest that the influence of large-scale climatic variability on local weather patterns drives phenological responses in the northern and southern regions of the CIS. The imprint of climatic variability on patterns of primary production across the CIS may be underpinned by spatial differences in the anthropogenic modification of this ecosystem, as the northern sector is strongly modified by forestry and agriculture. We highlight the need for field validation of satellite indices around areas of high biomass and high endemism, located in the southern sector of the island, in order to enhance the utility of satellite vegetation indices in the conservation and management of austral ecosystems.
Influences of Environmental Loading Corrections on the Nonlinear Variations and Velocity Uncertainties for the Reprocessed Global Positioning System Height Time Series of the Crustal Movement Observation Network of China
Authors: Yuan Peng , Li Zhao , Jiang Weiping , Ma Yifang , Chen Wu , Sneeuw Nico
Published: June 2018

Mass redistribution of the atmosphere, oceans, and terrestrial water storage generates crustal displacements which can be predicted by environmental loading models and observed by the Global Positioning System (GPS). In this paper, daily height time series of 235 GPS stations derived from a homogeneously reprocessed Crustal Movement Observation Network of China (CMONOC) and corresponding loading displacements predicted by the Deutsche GeoForschungsZentrum (GFZ) are compared to assess the effects of loading corrections on the nonlinear variations of GPS time series. Results show that the average root mean square (RMS) of vertical displacements due to atmospheric, nontidal oceanic, hydrological, and their combined effects are 3.2, 0.6, 2.7, and 4.0 mm, respectively. Vertical annual signals of loading and GPS are consistent in amplitude but different in phase systematically. The average correlation coefficient between loading and GPS height time series is 0.6. RMS of the GPS height time series are reduced by 20% on average. Moreover, an investigation of 208 CMONOC stations with observing time spans of ~4.6 years shows that environmental loading corrections lead to an overestimation of the GPS velocity uncertainty by about 1.4 times on average. Nevertheless, by using a common mode component filter through principal component analysis, the dilution of velocity precision due to environmental loading corrections can be compensated.