bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Environmental Effects on the Electrical Characteristics of Back-Gated WSe2 Field-Effect Transistors
Authors: Urban Francesca , Martucciello Nadia , Peters Lisanne , McEvoy Niall , Di Bartolomeo Antonio
Published: November 2018

We study the effect of polymer coating, pressure, temperature, and light on the electrical characteristics of monolayer WSe 2 back-gated transistors with Ni / Au contacts. Our investigation shows that the removal of a layer of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) or a decrease of the pressure change the device conductivity from p- to n-type. From the temperature behavior of the transistor transfer characteristics, a gate-tunable Schottky barrier at the contacts is demonstrated and a barrier height of ~ 70 meV in the flat-band condition is measured. We also report and discuss a temperature-driven change in the mobility and the subthreshold swing that is used to estimate the trap density at the WSe 2 / SiO 2 interface. Finally, from studying the spectral photoresponse of the WSe 2 , it is proven that the device can be used as a photodetector with a responsivity of ~ 0.5 AW − 1 at 700 nm and 0.37 mW / cm 2 optical power.
Significant Enhancement of Hydrogen-Sensing Properties of ZnO Nanofibers through NiO Loading
Authors: Lee Jae-Hyoung , Kim Jin-Young , Mirzaei Ali , Kim Hyoun Woo , Kim Sang Sub
Published: November 2018

Metal oxide p-n heterojunction nanofibers (NFs) are among the most promising approaches to enhancing the efficiency of gas sensors. In this paper, we report the preparation of a series of p-NiO-loaded n-ZnO NFs, namely (1−x)ZnO-xNiO (x = 0.03, 0.05, 0.7, 0.1, and 0.15 wt%), for hydrogen gas sensing experiments. Samples were prepared through the electrospinning technique followed by a calcination process. The sensing experiments showed that the sample with 0.05 wt% NiO loading resulted in the highest sensing performance at an optimal sensing temperature of 200 °C. The sensing mechanism is discussed in detail and contributions of the p-n heterojunctions, metallization of ZnO and catalytic effect of NiO on the sensing enhancements of an optimized gas sensor are analyzed. This study demonstrates the possibility of fabricating high-performance H2 sensors through the optimization of p-type metal oxide loading on the surfaces of n-type metal oxides.
Orthogonal Functionalization of Nanodiamond Particles after Laser Modification and Treatment with Aromatic Amine Derivatives
Authors: Fraczyk Justyna , Rosowski Adam , Kolesinska Beata , Koperkiewcz Anna , Sobczyk-Guzenda Anna , Kaminski Zbigniew J. , Dudek Mariusz
Published: November 2018

A laser system with a wavelength of 1064 nm was used to generate sp2 carbon on the surfaces of nanodiamond particles (NDPs). The modified by microplasma NDPs were analysed using FT-IR and Raman spectroscopy. Raman spectra confirmed that graphitization had occurred on the surfaces of the NDPs. The extent of graphitization depended on the average power used in the laser treatment process. FT-IR analysis revealed that the presence of C=C bonds in all spectra of the laser-modified powder. The characteristic peaks for olefinic bonds were much more intense than in the case of untreated powder and grew in intensity as the average laser power increased. The olefinized nanodiamond powder was further functionalized using aromatic amines via in situ generated diazonium salts. It was also found that isokinetic mixtures of structurally diverse aromatic amines containing different functional groups (acid, amine) could be used to functionalize the surfaces of the laser-modified nanoparticles leading to an amphiphilic carbon nanomaterial. This enables one-step orthogonal functionalization and opens the possibility of selectively incorporating molecules with diverse biological activities on the surfaces of NDPs. Modified NDPs with amphiphilic properties resulting from the presence carboxyl and amine groups were used to incorporate simultaneously folic acid (FA-CONH-(CH2)5-COOH) and 5(6)-carboxyfluorescein (FL-CONH-(CH2)2-NH2) derivatives on the surface of material under biocompatible procedures.
Eating Behaviour Predicts Weight Loss Six Months after Bariatric Surgery: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Subramaniam Kavitha , Low Wah-Yun , Lau Peng-Choong , Chin Kin-Fah , Chinna Karuthan , Kosai Nik Ritza , Taher Mustafa Mohammed , Rajan Reynu
Published: November 2018

Bariatric surgery is currently the most durable weight loss solution for patients with morbid obesity. The extent of weight loss achieved, however, is subject to variation due to various factors, including patients’ behaviour. In this study, we aimed to identify pre- and post-surgical predictors of weight loss following bariatric surgery. This prospective study included 57 participants who went through bariatric surgery (laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: n = 30; laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy: n = 23; one anastomosis gastric bypass-mini gastric bypass: n = 4) in two tertiary referral hospitals. Consenting participants were assessed prior to surgery (T0), and three months (T1) and six months (T2) after surgery. The assessment included interview and anthropometric measurements. The interview was done with the aid of instruments, including the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) for anxiety and depression screening and the Dutch Eating Behaviour Questionnaire (DEBQ) for eating behaviour assessment. Baseline comorbidity status was obtained from medical records. A Generalised Estimating Equation (GEE) was developed to determine predictors of weight loss. Participants in the study were mostly women (n = 37, 65%) with a mean age of 39.4 (SD = 10.01) years. The mean excess BMI loss (EBMIL) and total weight loss (TWL) at the sixth month was 63.31% and 23.83%, respectively. Anxiety, depression, and external eating scores reduced over time. Advancing age, high BMI, and higher scores for emotional and external eating emerged as significant negative predictors for TWL%. It can be concluded that the patients experienced substantial weight loss after surgery. Continuous monitoring of psychological well-being and eating behaviour are essential for optimal weight loss.
Circulating Linoleic Acid is Associated with Improved Glucose Tolerance in Women after Gestational Diabetes
Authors: Andersson-Hall Ulrika , Carlsson Nils-Gunnar , Sandberg Ann-Sofie , Holmäng Agneta
Published: November 2018

Women with previously diagnosed gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) are at increased risk of type-2-diabetes mellitus (T2D). We aimed to establish links between glucose tolerance (GT) and serum fatty acid (FA) profile in the transition from GDM to T2D. Six years after GDM, 221 women were grouped as having normal GT (NGT), impaired GT (IGT), or T2D based on oral GT test results. Fasting serum FAs were profiled, anthropometric measures taken, and dietary intake determined. Linoleic acid (LA) was significantly higher in NGT women (p < 0.001) compared with IGT and T2D, and emerged as a strong predictor of low glucose and insulin levels, independently of BMI. Self-reported vegetable oil consumption correlated with LA serum levels and glucose levels. Delta-6-, delta-9-, and stearoyl-CoA-desaturase activities were associated with decreased GT, and delta-5-desaturase activities with increased GT. In a subgroup of women at high risk of diabetes, low LA and high palmitic acid levels were seen in those that developed T2D, with no differences in other FAs or metabolic measurements. Results suggest that proportions of LA and palmitic acid are of particular interest in the transition from GDM to T2D. Interconversions between individual FAs regulated by desaturases appear to be relevant to glucose metabolism.
Children with Obesity and Asthma: Which Are the Best Options for Their Management?
Authors: Di Genova Lorenza , Penta Laura , Biscarini Anna , Di Cara Giuseppe , Esposito Susanna
Published: November 2018

Obesity and asthma are complex disorders related to gene-environment interactions and various lifestyle factors. At present, they represent two of the most significant paediatric health problems worldwide, particularly in industrialized nations. The aim of this narrative review is to evaluate possible therapeutic strategies to manage asthma in children with overweight/obesity. PubMed was used to search for all of the studies published from January 2008 to June 2018 using the following key words: “asthma” and “overweight” or “obesity” or “obese” and “children” or “paediatric”. The literature review showed that growing evidence underlines the existence of an “obese asthma” phenotype characterised by difficult-to-control asthma with additional symptoms, worse control, more frequent and severe exacerbations, reduced response to inhaled corticosteroids, and lower quality of life than other phenotypes. Currently, therapeutic strategies centred on prevention are suggested and the development of resources to assist families with weight loss strategies seems useful for effective weight control and optimal asthma management. Studies on vitamin D supplementation and further knowledge are needed to better define the best therapeutic options to manage asthma in children with overweight/obesity and to reduce the onset and severity of this chronic respiratory disease through the design of a multifactorial intervention.
Total and Nonheme Dietary Iron Intake Is Associated with Metabolic Syndrome and Its Components in Chinese Men and Women
Authors: Zhu Zhenni , Wu Fan , Lu Ye , Wu Chunfeng , Wang Zhengyuan , Zang Jiajie , Guo Changyi , Jia Xiaodong , Yao Jiahui , Peng Hui , He Yuna , Sun Jing , Huang Jian , Ding Gangqiang
Published: November 2018

The causal relationship between serum ferritin and metabolic syndrome (MetS) remains inconclusive. Dietary iron intake increases serum ferritin. The objective of this study was to evaluate associations of total, heme, and nonheme dietary iron intake with MetS and its components in men and women in metropolitan China. Data from 3099 participants in the Shanghai Diet and Health Survey (SDHS) obtained during 2012–2013 were included in this analysis. Dietary intake was assessed by 24-h diet records from 3 consecutive days. Multivariate generalized linear mixed models were used to evaluate the associations of dietary iron intake with MetS and its components. After adjustment for potential confounders as age, sex, income, physical exercise, smoking status, alcohol use, and energy intake, a positive trend was observed across quartiles of total iron intake and risk of MetS (p for trend = 0.022). Compared with the lowest quartile of total iron intake (<12.72 mg/day), the highest quartile (≥21.88 mg/day) had an odds ratio (95% confidence interval), OR (95% CI), of 1.59 (1.15,2.20). In addition, the highest quartile of nonheme iron intake (≥20.10 mg/day) had a 1.44-fold higher risk of MetS compared with the lowest quartile (<11.62 mg/day), and higher risks of MetS components were associated with the third quartiles of total and nonheme iron intake. There was no association between heme iron intake and risk of MetS (p for trend = 0.895). Associations for total and nonheme iron intake with MetS risk were found in men but not in women. Total and nonheme dietary iron intake was found to be positively associated with MetS and its components in the adult population in metropolitan China. This research also revealed a gender difference in the association between dietary iron intake and MetS.
Dietary Intake of Anti-Oxidant Vitamins A, C, and E Is Inversely Associated with Adverse Cardiovascular Outcomes in Chinese—A 22-Years Population-Based Prospective Study
Authors: Lee Chi-Ho , Chan Ruth S. M. , Wan Helen Y. L. , Woo Yu-Cho , Cheung Chloe Y. Y. , Fong Carol H. Y. , Cheung Bernard M. Y. , Lam Tai-Hing , Janus Edward , Woo Jean , Lam Karen S. L.
Published: November 2018

Background: Conflicting and population-dependent findings have been reported from epidemiological studies on the associations of dietary intake of anti-oxidant vitamins with cardiovascular events. We investigated the prospective relationship between dietary intake of anti-oxidant vitamins and incident adverse cardiovascular outcomes amongst Hong Kong Chinese. Methods: In this prospective population-based study, baseline dietary intake of anti-oxidant vitamins (A, C, and E) were assessed using a food frequency questionnaire in 875 Chinese participants from the Hong Kong Cardiovascular Risk Factor Prevalence Study (CRISPS) in 1995–1996. The adjusted hazard ratio (HR) of incident adverse cardiovascular outcomes, defined as the first recorded diagnosis of cardiovascular deaths, non-fatal myocardial infarction or non-fatal stroke, and coronary or other arterial revascularizations, was calculated per unit intake of each vitamin using multivariable Cox regression. Results: Over a median follow-up of 22 years, 85 participants (9.7%) developed adverse cardiovascular outcomes. Dietary intakes of vitamin A, C, and E were independently and inversely associated with incident adverse cardiovascular outcomes (HR 0.68, 95%CI 0.53–0.88, p = 0.003 for vitamin A; HR 0.66, 95%CI 0.52–0.85, p = 0.001 for vitamin C; and HR 0.57, 95%CI 0.38–0.86, p = 0.017 for vitamin E) after adjustments for conventional cardiovascular risk factors at baseline. Conclusions: Dietary intakes of anti-oxidant vitamins A, C, and E reduced the risk of adverse cardiovascular outcomes in Hong Kong Chinese.
Ginseng (Panax ginseng Meyer) Oligopeptides Protect Against Binge Drinking-Induced Liver Damage through Inhibiting Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Rats
Authors: Liu Rui , Chen Qi-He , Ren Jin-Wei , Sun Bin , Cai Xia-Xia , Li Di , Mao Rui-Xue , Wu Xin , Li Yong
Published: November 2018

Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer (ginseng) is an edible and traditional medicinal herb, which is reported to have a wide range of biological activity and pharmaceutical properties. There were more studies on ginsenoside and polysaccharides, but fewer on ginseng oligopeptides (GOPs), which are small molecule oligopeptides extracted from ginseng. The present study was designed to investigate the effects and underlying mechanism of ginseng oligopeptide (GOPs) on binge drinking-induced alcohol damage in rats. Sprague Dawley rats were randomly assigned to six groups (n = 10), rats in normal control group and alcohol model group was administered distilled water; rats in four GOPs intervention groups (at a dose of 0.0625, 0.125, 0.25, 0.5 g/kg of body weight, respectively) were administered GOPs once a day for 30 days. Experiment rats were intragastrically administered ethanol at a one-time dose of 7 g/kg of body weight after 30 days. The liver injury was measured through traditional liver enzymes, inflammatory cytokines, expression of oxidative stress markers, and histopathological examination. We found that the GOPs treatment could significantly improve serum alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase, plasma lipopolysaccharide, and inflammatory cytokine levels, as well as the oxidative stress markers that were altered by alcohol. Moreover, GOPs treatment inhibited the protein expression of toll-like receptor 4, and repressed the inhibitor kappa Bα and nuclear factor-κB p65 in the liver. These findings suggested that GOPs have a significant protective effect on binge drinking-induced liver injury, and the mechanism possibly mediated by the partial inhibition of lipopolysaccharide—toll-like receptor 4-nuclear factor-κB p65 signaling in the liver.
Is More Better? Insights on Consumers’ Preferences for Nutritional Information on Wine Labelling
Authors: Vecchio Riccardo , Annunziata Azzurra , Mariani Angela
Published: November 2018

Background: Nowadays there is a strong debate on the need to introduce mandatory nutritional information on alcoholic beverages labels, and particularly on wine, as a tool to promote more health-conscious drinking patterns in society. In 2018, the European alcoholic beverages industry presented a self-regulatory proposal, now under assessment by the European Commission. The most critical issue is how to convey nutritional information to consumers, as producers should decide to apply information on label or off-label. Method: The current study measured, through a non-hypothetical, incentive compatible artefactual field experiment, Italian wine consumers (N = 103) preferences for four different formats of wine nutritional labelling, namely: back label with the indication of kcal for glass of wine, with the nutritional panel referred to 100 mL, without nutritional information (but with a link to an external website) and with the indication of key nutrients for glass of wine. Results: Findings reveal that respondents preferred the nutritional panel on the back label, assigning the lowest preference to the less informative wine label (only with a website recall). Furthermore, results show a low level of respondents’ knowledge of wine nutritional properties. Conclusion: Findings, while limited in terms of sample representativeness, seem to support the European Consumer Organisation and the European Alcohol Policy Alliance objection to an off-line label and the advocacy for a traditional and complete on label nutritional information on wine.
Childhood Experiences and Sporting Event Visitors’ Preference for Unhealthy versus Healthy Foods: Priming the Route to Obesity?
Authors: Koenigstorfer Joerg
Published: November 2018

To date, there is little knowledge about how experiences in childhood frame adults’ food and drink consumption patterns in the context of attending sporting events as spectators. Therefore, the goal of this study was to explore the childhood memories of adults when they visited sporting events and find out whether and why this particular setting makes individuals indulge in unhealthy food. The study comprises two components: Study 1 and Study 2. In Study 1, 30 individuals recalled their childhood experiences of sport stadium visits at the age of ten years or younger. Inductive coding of the stories revealed that on-site enjoyment is an important factor that may lead to unhealthy food consumption. In Study 2 (n = 240), the effect of enjoyment on the intentions to eat unhealthy versus healthy food at sporting events was tested empirically and contrasted with two other leisure-time activities. The results of the experiment revealed that it is not enjoyment, but the visit to sporting or music events (versus a flea market) that increased the preference for unhealthy versus healthy foods. Implications to decrease (increase) the preference for unhealthy (healthy) food in these particular settings against the background of childhood experiences can be drawn.
Dietary Diversity and Food Variety in Chinese Children Aged 3–17 Years: Are They Negatively Associated with Dietary Micronutrient Inadequacy?
Authors: Meng Liping , Wang Yan , Li Ting , Loo-Bouwman Carolien Annika van , Zhang Yumei , Man-Yau Szeto Ignatius
Published: November 2018

Micronutrient inadequacy remains a nutritional problem in Chinese children. However, the associations between dietary diversity and inadequate micronutrient intake have not been extensively studied. A total of 2012 children aged 3–17 years from the China Health and Nutrition Survey were included for analysis. Dietary diversity score (DDS) and food variety scores (FVS) were assessed based on three 24-h recall periods. The nutrient adequacy ratio (NAR) was used to determine the micronutrient adequacy of the diet. The mean adequacy ratio (MAR, %) was defined as the sum of each NAR divided by the number of involved micronutrients. Overall micronutrient inadequacy (OMI) was defined as having a MAR below 0.75. Micronutrient inadequacy was defined as the proportion of individuals whose nutrient intake was less than the estimated average requirement. After adjustment confounders, DDS and FVSs were positively associated with MAR and NAR of most nutrients except sodium (p < 0.05). A higher DDS was negatively associated with the prevalence of inadequate intake of vitamin A, riboflavin, vitamin C, iron, zinc, selenium, niacin, phosphorus, magnesium and OMI. Similar results were found for FVSs. In conclusion, this study indicates that poor dietary diversity and food variety in Chinese children are directly associated with inadequate micronutrient intake.
Complementary Feeding Practices for South Asian Young Children Living in High-Income Countries: A Systematic Review
Authors: Manikam Logan , Lingam Raghu , Lever Isabel , Alexander Emma C. , Amadi Chidi , Milner Yasmin , Shafi Taimur , Stephenson Lucy , Ahmed Sonia , Lakhanpaul Monica
Published: November 2018

Sub-optimal nutrition among South Asian (SA) children living in high-income countries is a significant problem. High rates of obesity have been observed in this population, and differential complementary feeding practices (CFP) have been highlighted as a key influence. Our aim was to undertake a systematic review of studies assessing CFP in children under two years of age from SA communities living in high-income countries, including dietary diversity, timing, frequency and promotors/barriers. Searches covered January 1990–July 2018 using MEDLINE, EMBASE, Global Health, Web of Science, BanglaJOL, OVID Maternity and Infant Care, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, POPLINE and World Health Organisation (WHO) Global Health Library. Eligible studies were primary research on CFP in SA children aged 0–2 years. Search terms were “children”, “feeding” and “South Asian”, and derivatives. Quality appraisal used the Evidence for Policy and Practice Information (EPPI) Weight of Evidence scoring. From 50,713 studies, 13 were extracted with ten from the UK, and one each from the USA, Canada and Singapore. Sub-optimal CFP were found in all studies. All ten studies investigating timing reported complementary feeding (CF) being commenced before six months. Promoters/barriers influencing CFP included income, lack of knowledge, and incorrect advice. This is the first systematic review to evaluate CFP in SA children living in high-income countries and these findings should inform the development of effective interventions for SA infants in these settings.
The Handbook of Minerals on a Gluten-Free Diet
Authors: Rybicka Iga
Published: November 2018

The importance of a gluten-free diet (GFD) in the treatment of celiac disease and other gluten-related disorders is undisputable. However, strict GFD often lead to nutritional imbalances and, therefore, to deficiencies. One of the most common deficiencies from a GFD are an insufficient amount of Ca, Fe, Mg, and Zn. This is mainly because the most of popular gluten-free (GF) raw materials are poor in minerals. Although the popularity of GFD is constantly growing, the data on minerals in GF products are still limited. More importantly, an access to the data is even more restricted. Therefore, the paper reviews the Ca, Fe, Mg, and Zn contents in hundreds of grain GF products available worldwide. The data for 444 products from categories of flours, mixes for cooking, bakery products, cereals, groats, rice, and pasta are obtained from research papers and nutritional databases. The calculation of the realization of mineral requirements from a portion of each product with its graphical classification as rich/average/poor source of each mineral is given. The review is a handbook of minerals for people on a GFD, dietitians, and food producers.
Influence of Benzyladenine on Metabolic Changes in Different Rose Tissues
Authors: Ibrahim Mohammed , Du Xin , Agarwal Manjree , Hardy Giles , Abdulhussein Muslim , Ren Yonglin
Published: November 2018

Two modern rose varieties, Floribunda and Hybrid Tea, were used to analyze and identify metabolic changes after foliar application with benzyladenine (BA). Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as metabolites were detected. Two pairs of doses of BA, at 11.16 and 17.87 mg/cm2, and 7.17 and 12.26 mg/cm2 were applied to the foliage of Hybrid Tea and Floribunda, respectively. Sampling time was optimized and treatment duration was 4 weeks. After treatment, the volatiles from the treated and untreated control roses were extracted using headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) technology by three-phase fiber 50/30 µm divinylbenzene/carboxen/polydimethylsiloxane (DVB/CAR/PDMS) and analyzed by gas chromatography (GC) coupled with a flame ionization detector (FID), and with mass spectrometry (GC-MS).The results showed that BA and its dose rate led to metabolic changes of treated roses in comparison with untreated controls. The number of VOCs extracted and detected from leaves, stem, rhizosphere and whole plants from the two rose varieties at doses rate of 17.87 and 12.26 mg/cm2 were 43, 65, 40 and 68 compounds for each plant material, respectively, for both rose varieties. Whilst the VOCs extracted and detected from both rose varieties for leaves, stem, rhizosphere and whole plants were 38, 61, 34 and 66 compounds for each plant material, respectively. The results demonstrate that some volatiles, such as 4-Heptyn-2-ol, Phenyl methyl ether and 3-Methyl-apopinene, increased with increasing doses of BA; these compounds are aroma chemicals with a very powerful smell. This study shows that BA treatments can have a significant effect on metabolite changes in different rose tissues. This method could be applied to other floriculture plants.
Effects of the Number of Seeds per Berry on Fruit Growth Characteristics, Especially on the Duration of Stage II in Blueberry
Authors: Doi Kenichi , Nozaki Ryouichi , Takahashi Kouji , Iwasaki Naoto
Published: November 2018

In present research, differences in the number of seeds per berry (NSB), berry fresh weight (BW), days to ripening from flowering (DRF), and the duration of a slow growth phase (DS II) among pollen sources were investigated in highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum). NSB, as well as BW and DRF, were significantly different among the pollen sources. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) with NSB as the covariate showed significant interaction between the NSB and pollen sources on BW and DRF when self-pollination was included. However, ANCOVA without self-pollination showed no significant effect of the pollen source on BW and DRF. On the other hand, DS II was negatively correlated with NSB, and no significant interaction between NSB and pollen sources was found, even though self-pollination was included. Although the relationship between NSB and DS II appeared not to be statistically influenced by the different pollen sources, there seemed to be some difference between self- and cross-pollination. DS II shortened as the NSB increased, which may have led to a decrease in DRF.
Mango Fruit Yield and Critical Quality Parameters Respond to Foliar and Soil Applications of Zinc and Boron
Authors: Ahmad Iftikhar , Bibi Fatma , Ullah Hameed , Munir Tariq Muhammad
Published: November 2018

Mango (Mangifera indica L.), the sixth most important fruit crop worldwide, is likely at risk under a climate change scenario of accelerated soil organic matter mineralization and constrained plant nutrient supplies such as zinc (Zn) and boron (B). We identified the optimum nutrient formulation and application method to possibly rectify nutrient deficits in mango plants grown in one of the warmest and driest regions—Multan, Pakistan. We evaluated the yield and physiological (quality) responses of 20-year-old mango trees to seven treatments of foliar and soil applications of Zn and B. Combined soil application of B and Zn resulted in optimum increases in leaf mineral B and Zn and fruit-set, retention, yield, pulp recovery and total soluble solids at ripening (p = 0.021), while reducing titratable acidity and early fruit shedding (p = 0.034). Additionally, this treatment improved fruit quality (taste, flavour, texture, aroma, acceptability; p ≤ 0.05). Yield was found to be correlated with retention percentage (P ≤ 0.001; R2 = 0.91), which was in turn related to fruit-set number panicle−1 (P = 0.039; R2 = 0.61). Therefore, we suggest that combined soil application of B and Zn mitigates leaf mineral deficiencies and improves the yield and quality of mango more efficiently than other individual or combined foliar or soil treatments used in this study.
[Rh(L-alaninate)(1,5-Cyclooctadiene)] Catalyzed Helix-Sense-Selective Polymerizations of Achiral Phenylacetylenes
Authors: Wang Qingyu , Jia Hongge , Shi Yongqiang , Ma Liqun , Yang Guoxing , Wang Yazhen , Xu Shuangping , Wang Jianjun , Zang Yu , Aoki Toshiki
Published: November 2018

The [Rh(L-alaninate)(cod)] (cod = 1,5-Cyclooctadiene) complex was synthesized and characterized. Asymmetric polymerizations of achiral phenylacetylene with two hydroxyl groups and a dodecyl group (DoDHPA) were performed by using the rhodium complex as the catalyst to provide polymers with a higher molecular weight (>105) than the polymers obtained using the [Rh(cod)Cl]2 initiator systems. The resulting polymers showed circular dichroism (CD) signals at approximately 310 and 470 nm, indicating that they have a preferential one-handed helical structure. The helix sense in the polymer main chain was controlled by the sign of the catalyst chirality. These findings suggest that the rhodium complex with a chiral amine is the true active species for the helix-sense-selective polymerization of DoDHPA. The [Rh(L-alaninate)(cod)] complex also exhibits high catalytic activity in the polymerization of phenylacetylene (PA) to give a high yield and molecular weight. All these results demonstrate that this Rh complex is an excellent catalyst for the polymerization of phenylacetylene monomers.
The Evolution of the Concept of Semantic Web in the Context of Wikipedia: An Exploratory Approach to Study the Collective Conceptualization in a Digital Collaborative Environment
Authors: Machado Luís Miguel , Borges Maria Manuel , Souza Renato Rocha
Published: November 2018

Wikipedia, as a “social machine”, is a privileged place to observe the collective construction of concepts without central control. Based on Dahlberg’s theory of concept, and anchored in the pragmatism of Hjørland—in which the concepts are socially negotiated meanings—the evolution of the concept of semantic web (SW) was analyzed in the English version of Wikipedia. An exploratory, descriptive, and qualitative study was designed and we identified 26 different definitions (between 12 July 2001 and 31 December 2017), of which eight are of particular relevance for their duration, with the latter being the two recorded at the end of the analyzed period. According to them, SW: “is an extension of the web” and “is a Web of Data”; the latter, used as a complementary definition, links to Berners-Lee’s publications. In Wikipedia, the evolution of the SW concept appears to be based on the search for the use of non-technical vocabulary and the control of authority carried out by the debate. As a space for collective bargaining of meanings, the Wikipedia study may bring relevant contributions to a community’s understanding of a particular concept and how it evolves over time.
Surface Deformation Monitoring in Zhengzhou City from 2014 to 2016 Using Time-Series InSAR
Authors: Zhang Zhengjia , Wang Chao , Wang Mengmeng , Wang Ziwei , Zhang Hong
Published: November 2018

In recent years, with the development of urban expansion in Zhengzhou city, the underground resources, such as underground water and coal mining, have been exploited greatly, which have resulted in ground subsidence and several environmental issues. In order to study the spatial distribution and temporal changes of ground subsidence of Zhengzhou city, the Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) time series analysis technique combining persistent scatterers (PSs) and distributed scatterers (DSs) was proposed and applied. In particular, the orbit and topographic related atmospheric phase errors have been corrected by a phase ramp correction method. Furthermore, the deformation parameters of PSs and DSs are retrieved based on a layered strategy. The deformation and DEM error of PSs are first estimated using conventional PSI method. Then the deformation parameters of DSs are retrieved using an adaptive searching window based on the initial results of PSs. Experimental results show that ground deformation of the study area could be retrieved by the proposed method and the ground deformation is widespread and unevenly distributed with large differences. The deformation rate ranges from −55 to 10 mm/year, and the standard deviation of the results is about 8 mm/year. The observed InSAR results reveal that most of the subsidence areas are in the north and northeast of Zhengzhou city. Furthermore, it is found that the possible factors resulting in the ground subsidence include sediment consolidation, water exploitation, and urban expansion. The result could provide significant information to serve the land subsidence mitigation in Zhengzhou city.
Permafrost Terrain Dynamics and Infrastructure Impacts Revealed by UAV Photogrammetry and Thermal Imaging
Authors: Van der Sluijs Jurjen , Kokelj Steven V. , Fraser Robert H. , Tunnicliffe Jon , Lacelle Denis
Published: November 2018

Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) systems, sensors, and photogrammetric processing techniques have enabled timely and highly detailed three-dimensional surface reconstructions at a scale that bridges the gap between conventional remote-sensing and field-scale observations. In this work 29 rotary and fixed-wing UAV surveys were conducted during multiple field campaigns, totaling 47 flights and over 14.3 km2, to document permafrost thaw subsidence impacts on or close to road infrastructure in the Northwest Territories, Canada. This paper provides four case studies: (1) terrain models and orthomosaic time series revealed the morphology and daily to annual dynamics of thaw-driven mass wasting phenomenon (retrogressive thaw slumps; RTS). Scar zone cut volume estimates ranged between 3.2 × 103 and 5.9 × 106 m3. The annual net erosion of RTS surveyed ranged between 0.35 × 103 and 0.39 × 106 m3. The largest RTS produced a long debris tongue with an estimated volume of 1.9 × 106 m3. Downslope transport of scar zone and embankment fill materials was visualized using flow vectors, while thermal imaging revealed areas of exposed ground ice and mobile lobes of saturated, thawed materials. (2) Stratigraphic models were developed for RTS headwalls, delineating ground-ice bodies and stratigraphic unconformities. (3) In poorly drained areas along road embankments, UAV surveys detected seasonal terrain uplift and settlement of up to 0.5 m (>1700 m2 in extent) as a result of injection ice development. (4) Time series of terrain models highlighted the thaw-driven evolution of a borrow pit (6.4 × 105 m3 cut volume) constructed in permafrost terrain, whereby fluvial and thaw-driven sediment transfer (1.1 and 3.9 × 103 m3 a−1 respectively) was observed and annual slope profile reconfiguration was monitored to gain management insights concerning site stabilization. Elevation model vertical accuracies were also assessed as part of the case studies and ranged between 0.02 and 0.13 m Root Mean Square Error. Photogrammetric models processed with Post-processed Kinematic image solutions achieved similar accuracies without ground control points over much larger and complex areas than previously reported. The high resolution of UAV surveys, and the capacity to derive quantitative time series provides novel insights into permafrost processes that are otherwise challenging to study. The timely emergence of these tools bridges field-based research and applied studies with broad-scale remote-sensing approaches during a period when climate change is transforming permafrost environments.
Characterization of GNSS Signals Tracked by the iGMAS Network Considering Recent BDS-3 Satellites
Authors: Xie Xin , Fang Rongxin , Geng Tao , Wang Guangxing , Zhao Qile , Liu Jingnan
Published: November 2018

The international GNSS monitoring and assessment system (iGMAS) tracking network has been established by China to track multi-GNSS satellites. A key feature of iGMAS stations is the capability to fully track new navigation signals from the recently deployed BDS-3 satellites. In addition to the B1I and B3I signals inherited from BDS-2 satellites, the BDS-3 satellites are capable of transmitting new open service signals, including B1C at 1575.42 MHz, B2a at 1176.45 MHz, and B2b at 1207.14 MHz. In this contribution, we present a comprehensive analysis and characterization of GNSS signals tracked by different receivers and antennas equipped in the iGMAS network, especially as they relate to BDS-3 signals. Signal characteristics are analyzed in terms of the carrier-to-noise density ratio for the different signals as measured by the receiver, as well as pseudo-range noise and multipath. Special attention is given to discussion of the satellite-induced code bias, which has been identified to exist in the code observations of BDS-2, and the inter-frequency clock bias (IFCB), which has been observed in the triple-frequency carrier phase combinations of GPS Block IIF and BDS-2 satellites. The results indicate that the satellite-induced code bias is negligible for all signals of BDS-3 satellites, while small IFCB variations with peak amplitudes of about 1 cm can be recognized in BDS-3 triple-carrier combinations.
A Novel Method of Generating Deformation Time-Series Using Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar and Its Application in Mexico City
Authors: Wang Xiaying , Zhang Qin , Zhao Chaoying , Qu Feifei , Zhang Juqing
Published: November 2018

As a result of rapid societal development and urbanization, the pumping of groundwater has gradually increased. Land subsidence has thus become a common geological disaster, which can result in huge economic losses. Interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR), with its large-scale and high-accuracy monitoring characteristics, can attain information on Earth surface deformation using the interferometric phase between couples of SAR images acquired at different times. Time-series results for the ground surface are the key information required to understand the deformation pattern and further study the reason for the subsidence. However, in recent research, most methods for resolving time-series deformation—like the Berardino method—that use residuals in functional model solving and distinguish high-pass displacement and the atmospheric component by filtering do not generally work well and functional models focusing on prior information in the time-series solution process are not always available. In this paper, to solve the above problems, 34 Sentinel-1A descending mode scenes of Mexico City captured between 2015/04/13 and 2016/09/10 are used as experimental data. Firstly, a new functional model is provided to obtain the deformation time-series. The nonlinear deformation and atmospheric phase are combined as an unknown parameter and the method of singular value decomposition (SVD) is used to solve this variable. The nonlinear displacement and atmospheric phase are then separated by the singular spectrum analysis (SSA) method. Finally, the total land subsidence time-series is obtained by adding together the linear displacement and nonlinear displacement. Two typical methods and the proposed method were compared using both unit weights and adaptive weights. The experimental results show that the proposed method can obtain a more accurate time-series deformation result. Moreover, the different weights do not result in significant differences and the solved atmospheric and nonlinear phases have good consistency with the interferogram phase.
Exploiting SAR Tomography for Supervised Land-Cover Classification
Authors: D’Hondt Olivier , Hänsch Ronny , Wagener Nicolas , Hellwich Olaf
Published: November 2018

In this paper, we provide the first in-depth evaluation of exploiting Tomographic Synthetic Aperture Radar (TomoSAR) for the task of supervised land-cover classification. Our main contribution is the design of specific TomoSAR features to reach this objective. In particular, we show that classification based on TomoSAR significantly outperforms PolSAR data provided relevant features are extracted from the tomograms. We also provide a comparison of classification results obtained from covariance matrices versus tomogram features as well as obtained by different reference methods, i.e., the traditional Wishart classifier and the more sophisticated Random Forest. Extensive qualitative and quantitative results are shown on a fully polarimetric and multi-baseline dataset from the E-SAR sensor from the German Aerospace Center (DLR).
Technology, Gender, and Climate Change: A Feminist Examination of Climate Technologies
Authors: Sikka Tina
Published: November 2018

In this article, I examine the subject of justice as it relates to gender and climate change by focusing on two specific strategies, namely, the geoengineering strategy of ocean fertilization, and renewable energy as a means of mitigation (where mitigation is understood as the adoption of technologies and practices that aim to slow the rise of greenhouse gas emissions). My overarching argument is that iron fertilization geoengineering is not consistent with the feminist values of justice embedded in feminist standpoint theory and feminist contextual empiricism. Alternative mitigation strategies, on the other hand, go much further in meeting these objectives and virtues.
The Use of Human Capital and Limitations of Social Capital in Advancing Economic Security among Immigrant Women Living in Central Alberta, Canada
Authors: Chai Choon-Lee , Ueland Kayla , Phiri Tabitha
Published: November 2018

In this research, the challenges of using human capital and the effectiveness of social capital as an alternative resource used by immigrant women from non-English-speaking countries living in Central Alberta for them to attain economic security are studied. Evidence indicates heavy use of bonding social capital by immigrant women—primarily through family, ethnic, and religious networks—as a “survival” resource at the initial stage of settlement. The bonding social capital is relatively easy to access; nevertheless, in the case of visible minority immigrant women living in Central Alberta, bonding social capital has limited capacity in helping them to obtain economic security because their family and friends themselves often lack economic resources. As a result, these immigrant women are expected to compete in the labor market using their human capital to obtain higher-paying jobs. The challenge among immigrant women remains in seeking recognition of non-Canadian credentials, and/or successful acquisition and deployment of Canadian credentials in the primary labor market.
Reporting Characteristics in Sports Nutrition
Authors: Earnest Conrad P. , Roberts Brandon M. , Harnish Christopher R. , Kutz Jessica L. , Cholewa Jason M. , Johannsen Neil M.
Published: November 2018

Purpose: To examine data reporting characteristics in sports nutrition. Methods: We examined 236 papers from ten journals published in 2016. The primary outcome was statistical variance associated with treatment (SD (correct) vs. SEM or CI). Secondary outcomes included the reporting of: (a) effect sizes (Y/N); (b) outcome prioritization (Y/N; primary, secondary, etc.) and (c) statistical variance relative to change from baseline (CI (correct) vs. SD or SEM). As tertiary/exploratory outcome, we examined whether authors stated a directed hypothesis. Statistical evaluation was performed using chi-square analyses. Results: We observed significant trends for all analyses (p < 0.001) and between category comparisons (p < 0.002). For the primary outcome, 128 (59%) articles correctly used SD to denote treatment variance, while 79 (36%) and 11 (5%) used SEM and CI, respectively. For secondary outcomes, 63 articles (29%) reported effect sizes, while 155 (71%) did not. Additionally, 188 articles (86%) did not prioritize outcomes, 134 articles (61%) stated no hypotheses and 40 (19%, out of 100) articles used CI to denote change scores vs. SD (19%, n = 41) and SEM (n = 10, 5%). Eight articles (4%) reported no variance terms. Conclusions: Overall, there are gaps regarding reporting in sports nutrition. Editors, journal publishers, and the field of exercise science alike should consider these outcomes and provide editorial staff, reviewers and authors with more concrete guidelines.
Blue and Green Spaces as Therapeutic Landscapes: Health Effects of Urban Water Canal Areas of Isfahan
Authors: Vaeztavakoli Amirafshar , Lak Azadeh , Yigitcanlar Tan
Published: November 2018

Blue and green spaces contribute to the quality of cities in various ways—ranging from providing air corridors and visual amenities to positively affecting public psychological health and wellbeing. Urban blue and green spaces had geopolitical and agricultural functions in the past. These functions are still evident in many cities. They also provide ecological qualities for the surrounding (sub)urban neighborhoods. While in recent decades, many studies have explored the features and characteristics of urban blue and green spaces that are associated with positive health benefits, the healthy lifestyle promoting role of artificial water canals has received little attention. This case report investigates the canals in Isfahan from Iran that branch off from the Zayandeh Rood River and provide blue and green corridors to the city. The aim of this case report study is to explore the health aspects of urban water canals in physical, mental, and social dimensions based on the residents’ experiences. The study develops a framework for assessing the quality of therapeutic effect of canals in Isfahan, Iran. The paper employs qualitative content analysis as the methodological approach. In total, 200 people from the residential neighborhoods of the Niasarm Canal participated in semi-structured interviews in early 2018. The results of this research reveal that the canal—with ‘upgrade of active life’, ‘sense of rehabilitation, relaxation and concentration along with the canal’, ‘promotion of social life’, and ‘place identity’ characteristics—plays an important therapeutic role on the physical, psychological, and social health conditions of local residents.
Empirical Study on Structural Safety Diagnosis of Large-Scale Civil Infrastructure Using Laser Scanning and BIM
Authors: Ham Namhyuk , Lee Sang-Hyo
Published: November 2018

Existing structural safety diagnosis methods are time-consuming due to personnel-oriented measurement methods and have a limitation that it is difficult to obtain consistent research results. In order to overcome these limitations, this study proposes a structural safety diagnosis method using laser scanning and BIM. In spite of the various studies related to laser scanning and BIM, it is difficult to find a study that verifies the effect of shortening the service period and cost reduction in terms of project management. Therefore, in this study, case analysis of structural safety diagnosis of large-scale civil infrastructure was conducted. In the structural safety diagnosis, the laser scanning data and the BIM model were compared and analyzed to determine the degree of deformation of pipe rack (e.g., truss, column). Laser scanning data reflects the deformation state of large-scale civil infrastructure. On the other hand, the BIM model was constructed by reflecting the state before the transformation with reference to the laser scanning data. Finally, proposed method of structural safety diagnosis saved four months. In terms of manpower saving, 125 man-month was saved. The research findings can provide a quantitative basis for the introduction of laser scanning and BIM technology in the structural safety diagnosis of aging large-scale civil infrastructures. However, the limitations of this study have not been analyzed economically by considering the investment cost (e.g., hardware, software, training, etc.) of laser scanning and BIM technology and the cost saving effect of technology introduction.