bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stem Cells Regenerative Properties on New Rat Spinal Fusion Model
Authors: KLÍMA K. , VANĚČEK V. , KOHOUT A. , JIROUŠEK O. , FOLTÁN R. , ŠTULÍK J. , MACHOŇ V. , PAVLÍKOVÁ G. , JENDELOVÁ P. , SYKOVÁ E. , ŠEDÝ J.
Published: April 2020

Stem cells biology is one of the most frequent topic of physiological research of today. Spinal fusion represents common bone biology challenge. It is the indicator of osteoinduction and new bone formation on ectopic model. The purpose of this study was to establish a simple model of spinal fusion based on a rat model including verification of the possible use of titanium microplates with hydroxyapatite scaffold combined with human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Spinous processes of two adjacent vertebrae were fixed in 15 Wistar rats. The space between bony vertebral arches and spinous processes was either filled with augmentation material only and covered with a resorbable collagen membrane (Group 1), or filled with augmentation material loaded with 5 × 106 MSCs and covered with a resorbable collagen membrane (Group 2). The rats were sacrificed 8 weeks after the surgery. Histology, histomorphometry and micro-CT were performed. The new model of interspinous fusion was safe, easy, inexpensive, with zero mortality. We did not detect any substantial pathological changes or tumor formation after graft implantation. We observed a nonsignificant effect on the formation of new bone tissue between Group 1 and Group 2. In the group with MSCs (Group 2) we described minor inflamatory response which indicates the imunomodulational and antiinflamatory role of MSCs. In conclusion, this new model proved to be easy to use in small animals like rats.
Gender-Related Effects on Substrate Utilization and Metabolic Adaptation in Hairless Spontaneously Hypertensive Rat
Authors: TRNOVSKÁ J. , ŠILHAVÝ J. , ZÍDEK V. , ŠIMÁKOVÁ M. , MLEJNEK P. , LANDA V. , EIGNER S. , EIGNER HENKE K. , ŠKOP V. , OLIYARNYK O. , KAZDOVÁ L. , MRÁČEK T. , HOUŠTĚK J. , PRAVENEC M.
Published: April 2020

Cold exposure of rats leads to ameliorated glucose and triglyceride utilization with females displaying better adaptation to a cold environment. In the current study, we used hairless rats as a model of increased thermogenesis and analyzed gender-related effects on parameters of lipid and glucose metabolism in the spontaneously hypertensive (SHR) rats. Specifically, we compared hairless coisogenic SHR-Dsg4 males and females harboring mutant Dsg4 (desmoglein 4) gene versus their SHR wild type controls. Two way ANOVA showed significant Dsg4 genotype (hairless or wild type) x gender interaction effects on palmitate oxidation in brown adipose tissue (BAT), glucose incorporation into BAT determined by microPET, and glucose oxidation in skeletal muscles. In addition, we observed significant interaction effects on sensitivity of muscle tissue to insulin action when Dsg4 genotype affected these metabolic traits in males, but had little or no effects in females. Both wild type and hairless females and hairless males showed increased glucose incorporation and palmitate oxidation in BAT and higher tissue insulin sensitivity when compared to wild type males. These findings provide evidence for gender-related differences in metabolic adaptation required for increased thermogenesis. They are consistent with the hypothesis that increased glucose and palmitate utilization in BAT and muscle is associated with higher sensitivity of adipose and muscle tissues to insulin action.
Intrapulmonary Activation of the Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Type 2/Angiotensin 1-7/G-Protein-Coupled Mas Receptor Axis Attenuates Pulmonary Hypertension in Ren-2 Transgenic Rats Exposed to Chronic Hypoxia
Authors: HAMPL V. , HERGET J. , BÍBOVÁ J. , BAŇASOVÁ A. , HUSKOVÁ Z. , VAŇOURKOVÁ Z. , JÍCHOVÁ Š. , KUJAL P. , VERNEROVÁ Z. , SADOWSKI J. , ČERVENKA L.
Published: April 2020

The present study was performed to evaluate the role of intrapulmonary activity of the two axes of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS): vasoconstrictor angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)/angiotensin II (ANG II)/ANG II type 1 receptor (AT1) axis, and vasodilator ACE type 2 (ACE2)/angiotensin 1-7 (ANG 1-7)/Mas receptor axis, in the development of hypoxic pulmonary hypertension in Ren-2 transgenic rats (TGR). Transgene-negative Hannover Sprague-Dawley (HanSD) rats served as controls. Both TGR and HanSD rats responded to two weeks´ exposure to hypoxia with a significant increase in mean pulmonary arterial pressure (MPAP), however, the increase was much less pronounced in the former. The attenuation of hypoxic pulmonary hypertension in TGR as compared to HanSD rats was associated with inhibition of ACE gene expression and activity, inhibition of AT1 receptor gene expression and suppression of ANG II levels in lung tissue. Simultaneously, there was an increase in lung ACE2 gene expression and activity and, in particular, ANG 1-7 concentrations and Mas receptor gene expression. We propose that a combination of suppression of ACE/ANG II/AT1 receptor axis and activation of ACE2/ANG 1-7/Mas receptor axis of the RAS in the lung tissue is the main mechanism explaining attenuation of hypoxic pulmonary hypertension in TGR as compared with HanSD rats.
Exploring the Relationship of Enrollment in Income-Driven Repayment to Borrower Demographics and Financial Outcomes
Authors: Collier Daniel A. , Fitzpatrick Dan , Marsicano Christopher R.
Published: April 2020

The Senate HELP committee is considering changes to income-driven repayment (IDR) schemes for student loans, necessitating research that examines the characteristics and financial behaviors of the borrowers in IDR programs. Using descriptive methods and a nationally representative sample, we examine the demographics of IDR enrollment. Contrary to the intention of the policy, we find that low-income borrowers and borrowers with high debt-to-income ratios are less likely to enroll in IDR. We also find that married women of color are likely to enroll in IDR programs as are borrowers with more than $50K in student loan debt. Finally, we find that enrollment in IDR does not predict engagement in other financial behaviors such as saving for retirement or buying real estate. The paper ends with a discussion of the implications of these findings for federal financial aid policy.
Applying the MIDAS Touch: How to Handle Missing Values in Large and Complex Data
Authors: Lall Ranjit , Robinson Thomas
Published: April 2020

Principled methods for analyzing data with missing values, most notably multiple imputation, have become increasingly popular among political scientists. However, existing multiple imputation strategies can struggle to handle the kinds of large and complex datasets that are also becoming common in the discipline. We propose an accurate, fast, and scalable approach to multiple imputation, which we call MIDAS (Multiple Imputation with Denoising Autoencoders). MIDAS employs a class of dimensionality-reducing neural networks known as denoising autoencoders, which corrupt a subset of input data and attempt to reconstruct it through a series of nested nonlinear transformations. We repurpose denoising autoencoders for multiple imputation by treating missing values as an additional portion of corrupted data, drawing imputations from a model trained to minimize the reconstruction error on the originally observed portion. A host of tests involving both real and simulated data illustrate MIDAS's accuracy and scalability. We provide open-source software for implementing MIDAS.
On the exponential Diophantine equation related to powers of two consecutive terms of Lucas sequences
Authors: Ddamulira Mahadi , Luca Florian
Published: April 2020

Let $r\ge 1$ be an integer and ${\bf U}:=(U_{n})_{n\ge 0} $ be the Lucas sequence given by $U_0=0$, $U_1=1, $ and $U_{n+2}=rU_{n+1}+U_n$, for all $ n\ge 0 $. In this paper, we show that there are no positive integers $r\ge 3,~x\ne 2,~n\ge 1$ such that $U_n^x+U_{n+1}^x$ is a member of ${\bf U}$.
Research and Study of the Hybrid Algorithms Based on the Collective Behavior of Fish Schools and Classical Optimization Methods
Authors: Demidova Liliya A. , Gorchakov Artyom V.
Published: April 2020

Inspired by biological systems, swarm intelligence algorithms are widely used to solve multimodal optimization problems. In this study, we consider the hybridization problem of an algorithm based on the collective behavior of fish schools. The algorithm is computationally inexpensive compared to other population-based algorithms. Accuracy of fish school search increases with the increase of predefined iteration count, but this also affects computation time required to find a suboptimal solution. We propose two hybrid approaches, intending to improve the evolutionary-inspired algorithm accuracy by using classical optimization methods, such as gradient descent and Newton’s optimization method. The study shows the effectiveness of the proposed hybrid algorithms, and the strong advantage of the hybrid algorithm based on fish school search and gradient descent. We provide a solution for the linearly inseparable exclusive disjunction problem using the developed algorithm and a perceptron with one hidden layer. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the algorithms, we visualize high dimensional loss surfaces near global extreme points. In addition, we apply the distributed version of the most effective hybrid algorithm to the hyperparameter optimization problem of a neural network.
Innate Antimicrobial Defense of Skin and Oral Mucosa
Authors: Wertz Philip W. , de Szalay Sarah
Published: April 2020

This special issue intends to review and update our understanding of the antimicrobial defense mechanisms of the skin and oral cavity. These two environments are quite different in terms of water, pH, and nutrient availability, but have some common antimicrobial factors. The skin surface supports the growth of a limited range of microorganisms but provides a hostile environment for others. The growth of most microorganisms is prevented or limited by the low pH, scarcity of some nutrients such as phosphorus and the presence of antimicrobial peptides, including defensins and cathelicidins, and antimicrobial lipids, including certain fatty acids and long-chain bases. On the other hand, the oral cavity is a warm, moist, nutrient rich environment which supports the growth of diverse microflora. Saliva coating the oral soft and hard surfaces determines which microorganisms can adhere to these surfaces. Some salivary proteins bind to bacteria and prevent their attachment to surfaces. Other salivary peptides, including defensins, cathelicidins, and histatins are antimicrobial. Antimicrobial salivary proteins include lysozyme, lactoferrin, and lactoperoxidase. There are also antimicrobial fatty acids derived from salivary triglycerides and long-chain bases derived from oral epithelial sphingolipids. The various antimicrobial factors determine the microbiomes of the skin surface and the oral cavity. Alterations of these factors can result in colonization by opportunistic pathogens, and this may lead to infection. Neutrophils and lymphocytes in the connective tissue of skin and mucosa also contribute to innate immunity.
Clonal Structure, Virulence Factor-encoding Genes and Antibiotic Resistance of Escherichia coli, Causing Urinary Tract Infections and Other Extraintestinal Infections in Humans in Spain and France during 2016
Authors: Flament-Simon Saskia-Camille , Nicolas-Chanoine Marie-Hélène , García Vanesa , Duprilot Marion , Mayer Noémie , Alonso María Pilar , García-Meniño Isidro , Blanco Jesús E. , Blanco Miguel , Blanco Jorge
Published: April 2020

Escherichia coli is the main pathogen responsible for extraintestinal infections. A total of 196 clinical E. coli consecutively isolated during 2016 in Spain (100 from Lucus Augusti hospital in Lugo) and France (96 from Beaujon hospital in Clichy) were characterized. Phylogroups, clonotypes, sequence types (STs), O:H serotypes, virulence factor (VF)-encoding genes and antibiotic resistance were determined. Approximately 10% of the infections were caused by ST131 isolates in both hospitals and approximately 60% of these infections were caused by isolates belonging to only 10 STs (ST10, ST12, ST58, ST69, ST73, ST88, ST95, ST127, ST131, ST141). ST88 isolates were frequent, especially in Spain, while ST141 isolates significantly predominated in France. The 23 ST131 isolates displayed four clonotypes: CH40-30, CH40-41, CH40-22 and CH40-298. Only 13 (6.6%) isolates were carriers of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) enzymes. However, 37.2% of the isolates were multidrug-resistant (MDR). Approximately 40% of the MDR isolates belonged to only four of the dominant clones (B2-CH40-30-ST131, B2-CH40-41-ST131, C-CH4-39-ST88 and D-CH35-27-ST69). Among the remaining MDR isolates, two isolates belonged to B2-CH14-64-ST1193, i.e., the new global emergent MDR clone. Moreover, a hybrid extraintestinal pathogenic E.coli (ExPEC)/enteroaggregative isolate belonging to the A-CH11-54-ST10 clone was identified.
Study of Polyphenol Content and Antioxidant Properties of Various Mix of Chocolate Milk Masses with Different Protein Content
Authors: Urbańska Bogumiła , Szafrański Tomasz , Kowalska Hanna , Kowalska Jolanta
Published: April 2020

The aim of the study was to analyze the antioxidant character of conched chocolate milk masses, taking into account different protein content in milk. For the study, cocoa liquor obtained from roasted and unroasted cocoa beans from different regions, as well as milk powder obtained by spray and cylindrical drying were used. The analysis that was carried out showed that the protein content of powdered milk products ranged from about 11.6% (w/w) to over 31% (w/w). Lower content of polyphenols and lower antioxidant activity were shown in the masses to which the addition of milk with higher protein content was applied. The analysis of antioxidant character of chocolate milk masses showed higher total polyphenols content in masses prepared from unroasted cocoa beans liquor.
Plasma Non-Enzymatic Antioxidant Capacity (NEAC) in Relation to Dietary NEAC, Nutrient Antioxidants and Inflammation-Related Biomarkers
Authors: Carrión-García Cayetano Javier , Guerra-Hernández Eduardo Jesús , García-Villanova Belén , Serafini Mauro , Sánchez María-José , Amiano Pilar , Molina-Montes Esther
Published: April 2020

(1) Background: Little is known about the interlinkages between dietary and plasma non-enzymatic antioxidant capacity (D-NEAC and P-NEAC, respectively) and the body’s antioxidant and inflammation response. Our aim was to explore these associations in 210 participants from two Spanish European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) centers. (2) Methods: D-NEAC was estimated using published NEAC values in food. P-NEAC and total polyphenols (TP) were quantified by FRAP (ferric-reducing antioxidant power), TRAP (total radical-trapping antioxidant parameter), TEAC-ABTS (trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity-Azino Bis Thiazoline Sulfonic), ORAC (oxygen radical absorbance capacity) and Folin–Ciocalteu assays. Nutrient antioxidants (carotenes, α-tocopherol, ascorbic acid, retinol, uric acid, Q9 and Q10 coenzymes) and inflammation markers (IL-6, IL-8, CRP, TNF-α, PAI-I, resistin and adiponectin) were also analyzed. Spearman correlation and linear regression analyses were performed in association analyses. Analyses were stratified by covariates and groups were defined using cluster analysis. (3) Results: P-FRAP was correlated with D-NEAC, and significantly associated with P-NEAC in multivariate adjusted models. P-FRAP levels were also significantly associated with plasma antioxidants (log2 scale: TP β = 0.26; ascorbic acid β = 0.03; retinol β = 0.08; α-tocopherol β = 0.05; carotenes β = 0.02; Q10 β = 0.06; uric acid β = 0.25), though not with inflammation-related biomarkers. Different profiles of individuals with varying levels of P-NEAC and biomarkers were found. (4) Conclusions: P-NEAC levels were to some extent associated with D-NEAC and plasma antioxidants, yet not associated with inflammation response.
Real-Time, Deep Learning Based Wrong Direction Detection
Authors: Usmankhujaev Saidasul , Baydadaev Shokhrukh , Woo Kwon Jang
Published: April 2020

In this paper, we develop a real-time intelligent transportation system (ITS) to detect vehicles traveling the wrong way on the road. The concept of this wrong-way system is to detect such vehicles as soon as they enter an area covered by a single closed-circuit television (CCTV) camera. After detection, the program alerts the monitoring center and triggers a warning signal to the drivers. The developed system is based on video imaging and covers three aspects: detection, tracking, and validation. To locate a car in a video frame, we use a deep learning method known as you only look once version 3 (YOLOv3). Therefore, we use a custom dataset for training to create a deep learning model. After estimating a car’s position, we implement linear quadratic estimation (also known as Kalman filtering) to track the detected vehicle during a certain period. Lastly, we apply an “entry-exit” algorithm to identify the car’s trajectory, achieving 91.98% accuracy in wrong-way driver detection.
The Application of Self-Assembled of Meso-2,3-Dimercaptosuccinic Acid-Polydopamine-Zinc Oxide for Trace Cadmium Analysis
Authors: Lu Min , Zhang Xu , Chen Nuo
Published: April 2020

Nanomaterials have been applied in the analysis of trace contaminants in aquatic samples; however, the adsorption affinity of heavy metal ions to metallic oxide nanoparticles is low. Meso-2,3-dimercaptosuccinic acid-polydopamine-zinc oxide (DMSA/PDA/ZnO) was synthesized through a facile self-assembly process for enhancing the adsorption capacity of ZnO to cadmium cation (Cd(II)). A method for the analysis of trace Cd(II) in water samples was developed while using dimercaptosuccinic acid/Polydopamine/zinc oxide (DMSA/PDA/ZnO) as an adsorbent and atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) as a means of determination. The results demonstrate that the adsorption ratio of DMSA-PDA-ZnO to 1 mg/L Cd(II) is around 95% at pH 6.0–8.0 with a contact time of 31 h, and the enrichment rate can be more than 98% with the dosage of DMSA-PDA-ZnO exceeding 1.0 g/L. The adsorption isotherm of Cd(II) to DMSA/PDA/ZnO fits the Langmuir equation well, and the saturated adsorption of DMSA-PDA-ZnO to Cd(II) is 28.5 mg/g. The detection limit (3σ) of this method is 0.1 μg/L, with a relative standard deviation of 1%. Additionally, this method presents satisfactory performance with a recovery rate of 86−90% when applied to the detection of Cd(II) in environmental water samples.
Imaging Differential Mercury Species Bioaccumulation in Glass Eels Using Isotopic Tracers and Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Monperrus Mathilde , Pécheyran Christophe , Bolliet Valérie
Published: April 2020

Dramatic increases in global mercury pollution require a deeper understanding of specific toxicity mechanisms for mercury compounds in organisms. Despite numerous studies addressing mercury toxicity, the detailed mechanisms underlying its transport and accumulation in fish remain unclear. The aim of this study was to unravel differential uptake pathways for mercury compounds, metabolisation, and sequestration mechanisms in glass eels using techniques able to localize at the tissue and organ levels. A multi isotope image mapping procedure was developed to simultaneously study the uptake and distribution of both mercury compounds MeHg and Hg(II) within the organs of the whole organism. The use of isotopically labelled Hg species (methylmercury Me201Hg and inorganic mercury 199Hg(II)) and image based on isotope ratio instead of elemental signals allowed to visualize spatially and with time the differential Hg species uptake, transport, and sequestration routes. The results showed a preferential uptake of the MeHg counterpart and a dynamic transport of MeHg within different organs. The gills were the main target organs for MeHg uptake, whereas the skeletal muscle was the final MeHg storage tissue. Hg(II) was found to mainly transit by the gills and the olfactory bulbs with a very low transfer and storage in the other organs and a rapid depuration. No significant internal demethylation and methylation was observed during this experimentation.
Experimental Analysis of a Visual-Recognition Control for an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle in a Towing Tank
Authors: Yu Chao-Ming , Lin Yu-Hsien
Published: April 2020

In this study, underwater recognition technology and a fuzzy control system were adopted to adjust the attitude and revolution speed of a self-developed autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV). To validate the functionality of visual-recognition control, an experiment was conducted in the towing tank at the Department of Systems and Naval Mechatronic Engineering, National Cheng Kung University. An underwater lighting box was towed by a towing carriage at low speed. By adding real-time contour approximation and a circle-fitting algorithm to the image-processing procedure, the relationship between the AUV and the underwater lighting box was calculated. Both rudder plane angles and propeller revolution speeds were determined after the size and location of the lighting box was measured in the image. Finally, AUV performance with visual-recognition control was verified by controlling the target object in the image center during passage.
Bioburden Assessment by Passive Methods on a Clinical Pathology Service in One Central Hospital from Lisbon: What Can it Tell Us Regarding Patients and Staff Exposure?
Authors: Viegas Carla , Twarużek Magdalena , Lourenço Raquel , Dias Marta , Almeida Beatriz , Caetano Liliana Aranha , Carolino Elisabete , Gomes Anita Quintal , Kosicki Robert , Soszczyńska Ewelina , Viegas Susana
Published: April 2020

The assessment and control of microbial contamination in health care facilities is presently a mandatory and vital part of strategies to prevent and control hospital-acquired infections. This study aims to assess the bioburden with two passive sampling methods (30 ventilations grids swabs and 16 electrostatic dust collectors (EDCs)) at Clinical Pathology Services. The fungal burden was characterized through molecular tools, antifungal resistance, and the mycotoxins and cytotoxicity profile. Total bacteria presented the highest prevalence in both matrixes, whereas Gram-bacteria presented the lowest. Swabs presented a higher prevalence (27.6%) for fungal burden. Chrysonilia sitophila presented the highest prevalence in swabs, whereas for EDCs, C. sitophila and Mucor sp. were the most prevalent. Concerning Aspergillus genera on swabs, section Flavi was the one with the highest prevalence (58.02%), whereas, for EDCs, section Versicolores was the only section observed (100%). Aspergillus section Fumigati was detected in 10 swabs and 7 EDC samples and Aspergillus section Versicolores was detected in one EDC sample. Fungal growth on azole-supplemented media was observed in eight EDC samples. No mycotoxins were detected in any of the samples. A low cytotoxic effect was observed in two sites upon incubation of collected samples with A549 and SK cells and in two other sites upon incubation of collected samples with SK cells only. A medium cytotoxic effect was observed with one EDC sample upon incubation with A549 cells. This study reinforces the need of determination of the azole resistance profile for fungal species and allowed a preliminary risk characterization regarding the cytotoxicity. An intervention including the use of a ultraviolet with wavelength between 200 nm and 280 nm (UVC)—emitting device and an increased maintenance and cleaning of the central heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems should be ensured to promote the reduction of microbial contamination.
Which Effects on Neuroanatomy and Path-Integration Survive? Results of a Randomized Controlled Study on Intensive Balance Training
Authors: Dordevic Milos , Taubert Marco , Müller Patrick , Riemer Martin , Kaufmann Jörn , Hökelmann Anita , Müller Notger G.
Published: April 2020

Balancing is a complex task requiring the integration of visual, somatosensory and vestibular inputs. The vestibular system is linked to the hippocampus, a brain structure crucial for spatial orientation. Here we tested the immediate and sustained effects of a one-month-long slackline training program on balancing and orientation abilities as well as on brain volumes in young adults without any prior experience in that skill. On the corrected level, we could not find any interaction effects for brain volumes, but the effect sizes were small to medium. A subsequent within-training-group analysis revealed volumetric increments within the somatosensory cortex and decrements within posterior insula, cerebellum and putamen remained stable over time. No significant interaction effects were observed on the clinical balance and the spatial orientation task two months after the training period (follow-up). We interpret these findings as a shift away from processes crucial for automatized motor output towards processes related to voluntarily controlled movements. The decrease in insular volume in the training group we propose to result from multisensory interaction of the vestibular with the visual and somatosensory systems. The discrepancy between sustained effects in the brain of the training group on the one hand and transient benefits in function on the other may indicate that for the latter to be retained a longer-term practice is required.
Current Status and Future Prospects of Applying Bioinspired Superhydrophobic Materials for Conservation of Stone Artworks
Authors: Cao Yijian , Salvini Antonella , Camaiti Mara
Published: April 2020

The development of innovative materials is one of the most important focus areas in heritage conservation research. Eligible materials can not only protect the physical and chemical integrity of artworks but also preserve their artistic and aesthetic features. Recently, as one of the hot research topics in materials science, biomimetic superhydrophobic materials have gradually attracted the attention of conservation scientists due to their unique properties. In fact, ultra-repellent materials are particularly suitable for hydrophobization treatments on outdoor artworks. Owing to their excellent hydrophobicity, superhydrophobic materials can effectively prevent the absorption and penetration of liquid water as well as the condensation of water vapor, thus greatly relieving water-induced decay phenomena. Moreover, in the presence of liquid water, the superhydrophobic surfaces equipped with a self-cleaning property can clean the dirt and dust deposited spontaneously, thereby restoring the artistic features simultaneously. In the present paper, besides the basic principles of wetting on solid surfaces, materials, and methods reported for preparing bioinspired ultra-repellent materials, the recently proposed materials for art conservation are also introduced and critically reviewed, along with a discussion on the droplet impact and durability of the artificial superhydrophobic surfaces. Lastly, the current status and the problems encountered in practical application are also pointed out, and the focus of future research is presented as well.
Foundation Research on Physicochemical Properties of Mine Insulation Materials
Authors: Hou Chuanbin , Xin Song , Zhang Long , Liu Shangxiao , Zhang Xiao
Published: April 2020

The known cooling methods for the high-temperature operating environment of a mine mainly include ventilation, refrigeration, heat insulation, and individual protection. Among them, the superior performance and wide application of the heat insulation materials have attracted the attention of the coal mining industry. In this paper, three types of mineral insulation materials were prepared using basalt fiber, glass fiber, vitrified microbeads in combination with cement, sand, high-strength ceramsite, water, etc. In addition, the thermal conductivity and compressive strength of the prepared specimens were assessed. The results show that the test specimen containing basalt fiber had a great thermal insulation effect and achieved the required compressive strength. Furthermore, according to the COMSOL simulation results, the test specimen containing basalt fiber had a better thermal insulation effect than the ordinary concrete materials. Therefore, the research results of this article have guiding significance to search for new mine thermal insulation materials.
NotchPUF: Printed Circuit Board PUF Based on Microstrip Notch Filter
Authors: Martin Mitchell , Plusquellic Jim
Published: April 2020

Physical Unclonable Functions (PUFs) are primitives that are designed to leverage naturally occurring variations to produce a random bitstring. Current PUF designs are typically implemented in silicon or utilize variations found in commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) parts. Because of this, existing designs are insufficient for the authentication of Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs). In this paper, we propose a novel PUF design that leverages board variations in a manufactured PCB to generate unique and stable IDs for each PCB. In particular, a single copper trace is used as a source of randomness for bitstring generation. The trace connects three notch filter structures in series, each of which is designed to reject specific but separate frequencies. The bitstrings generated using data measured from a set of PCBs are analyzed using statistical tests to illustrate that high levels of uniqueness and randomness are achievable.
An Untargeted Metabolomic Comparison of Milk Composition from Sheep Kept Under Different Grazing Systems
Authors: Scano Paola , Carta Patrizia , Ibba Ignazio , Manis Cristina , Caboni Pierluigi
Published: April 2020

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different feedings on main traits and polar and semi-polar metabolite profiles of ovine milk. The milk metabolome of two groups of Sarda sheep kept under different grazing systems were analyzed by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and multivariate statistical analysis (MVA). The results of discriminant analysis indicated that the two groups showed a different metabolite profile, i.e., milk samples of sheep kept under Grazing System 1 (GS1) were richer in nucleosides, inositols, hippuric acid, and organic acids, while milk of sheep under Grazing System 2 (GS2) showed higher levels of phosphate. Statistical analysis of milk main traits indicates that fat content was significantly higher in GS1 samples while milk from GS2 sheep had more urea, trans-vaccenic acid, and rumenic acid. MVA studies of the associations between milk main traits and metabolite profile indicated that the latter reflects primarily the long chain fatty acid content, the somatic cell count (SCC), and lactose levels. All together, these results demonstrated that an integrated holistic approach could be applied to deepen knowledge about the effects of feeding on sheep’s milk composition.
Energy Conservation in Absorption Refrigeration Cycles Using DES as a New Generation of Green Absorbents
Authors: Haghbakhsh Reza , Peyrovedin Hamed , Raeissi Sona , Duarte Ana Rita C. , Shariati Alireza
Published: April 2020

Deep eutectic solvents (DESs) are emerging green solvents with very unique characteristics. Their contribution to atmospheric pollution is negligible, and they can be “designed” for desired properties. In this study, the feasibility of applying DESs (Reline, Ethaline, or Glyceline) as absorbents in absorption refrigeration cycles was investigated. The sophisticated cubic-plus-association (CPA) equation of state, considering the strong intermolecular interactions of such complex systems, was used to estimate the thermodynamic properties. At a fixed set of base case operating conditions, the coefficients of performance were calculated to be 0.705, 0.713, and 0.716 for Reline/water, Ethaline/water, and Glyceline/water systems, respectively, while the corresponding mass flow rate ratios were 33.73, 11.53, and 16.06, respectively. Furthermore, the optimum operating conditions of each system were estimated. To verify the feasibility, results were compared to literature systems, including LiBr/water and various ionic liquid/water systems. The results indicate that DES/water working fluids have the potential to be used in such cycles. Since DESs have the characteristic to be tuned (designed) to desired properties, including their solvent power and their enthalpies of absorption, much further research needs to be done to propose new DESs with higher energy efficiencies.
Suppressing the Influence of Ectopic Beats by Applying a Physical Threshold-Based Sample Entropy
Authors: Zhao Lina , Li Jianqing , Xiong Jinle , Liang Xueyu , Liu Chengyu
Published: April 2020

Sample entropy (SampEn) is widely used for electrocardiogram (ECG) signal analysis to quantify the inherent complexity or regularity of RR interval time series (i.e., heart rate variability (HRV)), with the hypothesis that RR interval time series in pathological conditions output lower SampEn values. However, ectopic beats can significantly influence the entropy values, resulting in difficulty in distinguishing the pathological situation from normal situations. Although a theoretical operation is to exclude the ectopic intervals during HRV analysis, it is not easy to identify all of them in practice, especially for the dynamic ECG signal. Thus, it is important to suppress the influence of ectopic beats on entropy results, i.e., to improve the robustness and stability of entropy measurement for ectopic beats-inserted RR interval time series. In this study, we introduced a physical threshold-based SampEn method, and tested its ability to suppress the influence of ectopic beats for HRV analysis. An experiment on the PhysioNet/MIT RR Interval Databases showed that the SampEn use physical meaning threshold has better performance not only for different data types (normal sinus rhythm (NSR) or congestive heart failure (CHF) recordings), but also for different types of ectopic beat (atrial beats, ventricular beats or both), indicating that using a physical meaning threshold makes SampEn become more consistent and stable.
Leadership and Effective Institutional Economics Design in the Context of Education Reforms
Authors: Strielkowski Wadim , Volchik Vyacheslav , Maskaev Artyom , Savko Pavel
Published: April 2020

Nowadays, the most typical reforms in higher education are conducted through the reorganization of universities either in the form of a merger, acquisition, or new status attainment. As a result, universities which educate local leaders for their respective national economies and have a profound impact on the regional economic development, as well as the composition of the labor market and intellectual potential, often encounter negative economic outcomes. The reforms that are imposed by the policymakers “from above” often hamper the development of universities and prevent them from fulfilling their roles described above. The process of reforming higher education in Russia is in many ways similar to the changes in the higher education systems of other European countries, in particular in post-Communist transition economies. Firstly, this process went through the integration into the global market of educational services. Secondly, it proceeded with the rethinking of the role of the university as a self-sustainable business organization. Thirdly, it was concluded by an increase in the demand and accessibility of education using the advancements offered by the digital technologies. Our paper argues that focused and well-balanced economic institutional design might be required for the sustainable development of reorganized leading universities. The project perspective implies that it is necessary to develop an institutional design in relation to what the organization seeks to achieve (either as its regulator or reformer) and how it intends to achieve these goals. In connection with the foregoing, we propose the following principles of designing effective institutions for the sustainable development of reorganized universities: (i) preservation of education as a “mixed” good (i.e., one that has the features of both public and private goods); (ii) transparency of decision making; (iii) complementarity of institutional change; and last but not least (iv) reduction in transaction costs.
The Research on DC Loop of Regional Power Grid Caused by the Operation of the Subway
Authors: Du Lin , Chang Sha , Wang Shiying
Published: April 2020

The operation of the subway would change the distribution of the ground potential along the rail, forming a DC loop through the grounding points in a nearby regional power grid and threatening the operational safety of the power system. In this paper, a new DC potential distribution calculation method along the subway is firstly proposed. Secondly, a grid grounding DC loop model is built on the foundation of the stray current principle. Thirdly, factors affecting the current in the grid are also presented and discussed based on the grounding loop model. Finally, a subway operation simulation platform is set up in a laboratory to simulate the operation of subway in situation, and the rationality of the model presented in this paper has been effectively verified.
Traditional Ecological Knowledge in Community Forest Management: Evolution and Limitations in Mexican Forest Law, Policy and Practice
Authors: Sierra-Huelsz José Antonio , Gerez Fernández Patricia , López Binnqüist Citlalli , Guibrunet Louise , Ellis Edward A.
Published: April 2020

Community forest management (CFM) is often a field of encounter between knowledge systems, where a conventional forestry blueprint is frequently applied in contexts rich in traditional ecological knowledge (TEK). This is the case in Mexico, a bioculturally diverse country and a reference of community forestry. Based on a review of laws, policies, literature, and empirical examples, we explore technical, epistemological, political, and contextual dimensions associated with the inclusion and exclusion of TEK in CFM in Mexico. Our analysis is composed of three steps: (1) A diachronic analysis of how TEK and associated practices have been considered by federal forest laws and codes (1960–2018), (2) a diachronic analysis of the scope of conventional forestry and its evolution in time and space, and (3) situated examples illustrating the inclusion and exclusion of TEK in CFM. We argue that: (1) Legal recognition of TEK as a concept does not necessarily entail the legal recognition of all traditional management practices; (2) the inclusion of TEK in CFM is heterogeneous across communities, ecosystems, regions, products and historical trajectories; and (3) different traditional practices are not equally integrated in CFM: traditional practices that contradict the spatial segregation of activities (i.e., land sparing) favored by conventional forestry tend to be less easily accepted or ignored by government institutions.
The Promotion of Technology Acceptance and Work Engagement in Industry 4.0: From Personal Resources to Information and Training
Authors: Molino Monica , Cortese Claudio G. , Ghislieri Chiara
Published: April 2020

Thanks to the rapid advances of technology, we are currently experiencing the fourth industrial revolution, which is introducing several changes in how organizations operate and how people learn and do their work. Many questions arise within this framework about how these transformations may affect workers’ wellbeing, and the Work and Organizational Psychology is called upon to address these open issues. This study aims to investigate personal and organizational antecedents (resilience, goal orientation and opportunities for information and training) and one consequence (work engagement) of technology acceptance within factories, comparing white- and blue-collar workers. The study involved a sample of 598 workers (white-collar = 220, blue-collar = 378) employed at an Italian company who filled in a self-report questionnaire. In both samples, the multi-group structural equation model showed a positive relationship between resilience, opportunities for information and training, and technology acceptance, which in turn showed a positive association with work engagement. All indirect effects were significant. This study investigated the motivational dynamics related to the introduction of new technologies within factories involving the little-studied population of blue-collar workers. Results highlighted the importance of providing information and opportunities for training to all employees, in order to support Industry 4.0 transformations without impacting on workers’ motivation.
Individual and Environmental Factors Associated with Recurrent Falls in Elderly Patients Hospitalized after Falls
Authors: Vu Hai Minh , Nguyen Long Hoang , Nguyen Huong Lan Thi , Vu Giang Thu , Nguyen Cuong Tat , Hoang Trong Nang , Tran Tung Hoang , Pham Kiet Tuan Huy , A. Latkin Carl , Xuan Tran Bach , S.H. Ho Cyrus , Ho Roger C.M.
Published: April 2020

Falls and recurrent falls cause great health and social consequences in older people. However, these problems are poorly understood in Vietnam. A cross-sectional study was performed at seven hospitals in Thai Binh province, Vietnam, to investigate the individual and environmental factors associated with recurrent falls among elderly patients hospitalized due to fall injuries in Vietnam. A history of recurrent falls within the last 12 months, sociodemographic, health, and clinical characteristics, as well as environmental conditions, were obtained via self-reported interviews. Multivariate logistic and Poisson regression models were used to identify associated factors. Overall, the mean fall episodes in the last 12 months were 1.8 (Standard deviation—SD = 1.2) episodes, and the 12-month prevalence of recurrent falls was 40.5%. The individual risk factors included not receiving fall prevention guidelines, walking with devices, loss of sensation in hand or foot, and using pain relief medications. The environmental risk factors comprised having too-high stairs and not having dry, clean, and nonslippery bathrooms. This study highlights a significantly high 12-month prevalence of recurrent falls in older patients hospitalized after falls in Vietnam. Moreover, regular assessments of functional disabilities and hazardous environmental conditions, as well as the provision of prevention programs, have potential to prevent falls and recurrent falls.
Making Paving Stones from Copper Mine Tailings as Aggregates
Authors: Lam Elizabeth J. , Zetola Vicente , Ramírez Yendery , Montofré Ítalo L. , Pereira Franco
Published: April 2020

Copper mining, the central axis of Chile’s economic development, produces a large number of tailings, which become a potential environmental risk. This study aims to evaluate the mechanical properties resulting from the making of Portland cement mixtures with tailings as aggregates so that they can be eventually used in paving stones for building inactive tailings dams. Tailings coming from two dams at a concentration plant located in Taltal (Chile) were used. Currently, Dam 1 is inactive, while Dam 2 is active. The tailings samples obtained from both dams were granulometrically characterized by sieving. In addition, pH, humidity, Eh, and mineralogical assays (sulfides, oxides, sulfates, carbonates, phosphates, and silicates) were measured. The fines content of the tailings from Dams 1 and 2 with a sieve size of N°200 ASTM were 76.2% and 29.6%, respectively. Therefore, owing to their high percentage of fines, they cannot be as used as concrete aggregates. Aggregates must contain a maximum percentage of fines so that mortars and concrete can meet Chilean standards. In this paper, to comply with a 7% and 15% fines content lower than 0.075 mm, tailings materials were mixed with conventional aggregates containing very little fines. In addition, a reference mixture was made with only tailings aggregates with and without a superplasticizer additive. To measure the mixtures of cement, aggregates, and tailings, bending and compression strength assays were made of the specimens after a 28-day curing, according to the Chilean standard. The results of the study show that the addition of only part of the tailings to the mixture increases bending strength by 26% and compression strength by 180% compared with the reference mortar, with a fines content lower than 0.075 mm in the 7% mixture, thus allowing paving stone manufacture with tailings materials. In addition, it was possible to increase the workability of the reference mixture by using superplasticizers as additives.
Inclusion of People with Intellectual Disabilities in Health Literacy: Lessons Learned from Three Participative Projects for Future Initiatives
Authors: Latteck Änne-Dörte , Bruland Dirk
Published: April 2020

Background: People with intellectual disabilities (IDs) constitute a high-risk group in relation to several diseases. Promoting their health literacy (HL) could be highly beneficial in the management of health information and making informed decisions. However, there are varying ranges of cognitive, communication and literacy levels in people with IDs. According to our literature review, a HL concept for this target group has not been adequately conceptualized. Methods: To increase knowledge about the target group, adapted HL results from three innovative (research) projects are presented. Results: The key factors are: a) target group orientation; b) social context and everyday life; c) individual resources, like communication and literacy levels; d) a multi-modal strategy to strengthen HL; and e) the self-determination and participation of people with IDs. Conclusions: The projects illustrate that the HL of people with IDs has been successfully addressed by taking these key factors into account. A target-group-orientated HL concept could affect more than positive health outcomes; it could also empower a high-risk group in relation to health problems. However, to develop successful action concepts and strategies, valid data are crucial. The heterogeneity of people with IDs is one of the biggest challenges in obtaining such data. Future studies will need to face these challenges.
Reply to Comment on Hardacker, C.T.; Baccellieri, A.; Mueller, E.R.; Brubaker, L.; Hutchins, G.; Zhang, J.L.Y.; Hebert-Beirne, J. Bladder Health Experiences, Perceptions and Knowledge of Sexual and Gender Minorities. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16, 3170
Authors: Hardacker Cecilia T. , Baccellieri Anna , Mueller Elizabeth R. , Brubaker Linda , Hutchins Georgia , Zhang Jory Luc Yimei , Hebert-Beirne Jeni
Published: April 2020

We appreciate your comments and concerns about our manuscript in IJERPH on Bladder Health Experiences, Perceptions and Knowledge of Sexual and Gender Minorities [...]
Adult Perceptions of Healthy Pregnancy: A Focus-Group Study
Authors: Kim Hae Won , Kim Duck Hee , Lee Hyang Yuol , Lee Young Jin , Ahn Hye Young
Published: April 2020

The fastest aging society with the lowest fertility rate can be buffered by support for healthy pregnancies using sociocultural approaches. We aimed to address adult perceptions of a healthy pregnancy and explored their needs and concerns about childbirth across the lifespan. We conducted a qualitative study using content analysis to investigate general perceptions of a healthy pregnancy after focus-group interviews with adult men and women. We interviewed 60 participants in nine group sessions of 5 to 8 people per group. Three major themes emerged that affect healthy pregnancies: Taking responsibility for a prepared pregnancy, factors that interfere with a healthy pregnancy, and improving strategies for a healthy pregnancy. For the first theme, the two main concerns were financial and parenthood preparation. Factors interfering with a healthy pregnancy had direct and indirect causes, considering personal, social, and cultural changes. Strategies for a healthy pregnancy included family and workplace support, systematic education, and governmental support for financial preparation and health screening. Participants averred that various kinds of support (financial, healthcare, and career) are needed for a healthy pregnancy and childbirth. This public awareness could promote better decisions toward healthy pregnancy with more sociocultural approaches in the various settings of home, school, and the workplace.