bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Disease and Health Inequalities Attributable to Air Pollutant Exposure in Detroit, Michigan
Authors: Martenies Sheena , Milando Chad , Williams Guy , Batterman Stuart
Published: October 2017

The environmental burden of disease is the mortality and morbidity attributable to exposures of air pollution and other stressors. The inequality metrics used in cumulative impact and environmental justice studies can be incorporated into environmental burden studies to better understand the health disparities of ambient air pollutant exposures. This study examines the diseases and health disparities attributable to air pollutants for the Detroit urban area. We apportion this burden to various groups of emission sources and pollutants, and show how the burden is distributed among demographic and socioeconomic subgroups. The analysis uses spatially-resolved estimates of exposures, baseline health rates, age-stratified populations, and demographic characteristics that serve as proxies for increased vulnerability, e.g., race/ethnicity and income. Based on current levels, exposures to fine particulate matter (PM2.5), ozone (O3), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) are responsible for more than 10,000 disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) per year, causing an annual monetized health impact of $6.5 billion. This burden is mainly driven by PM2.5 and O3 exposures, which cause 660 premature deaths each year among the 945,000 individuals in the study area. NO2 exposures, largely from traffic, are important for respiratory outcomes among older adults and children with asthma, e.g., 46% of air-pollution related asthma hospitalizations are due to NO2 exposures. Based on quantitative inequality metrics, the greatest inequality of health burdens results from industrial and traffic emissions. These metrics also show disproportionate burdens among Hispanic/Latino populations due to industrial emissions, and among low income populations due to traffic emissions. Attributable health burdens are a function of exposures, susceptibility and vulnerability (e.g., baseline incidence rates), and population density. Because of these dependencies, inequality metrics should be calculated using the attributable health burden when feasible to avoid potentially underestimating inequality. Quantitative health impact and inequality analyses can inform health and environmental justice evaluations, providing important information to decision makers for prioritizing strategies to address exposures at the local level.
Individual and Environmental Correlates to Quality of Life in Park Users in Colombia
Authors: Camargo Diana , Ramírez Paula , Fermino Rogério
Published: October 2017

Purpose: To explore individual and environmental correlates to quality of life (QoL) in park users in Colombia. Methods: A cross-sectional study with face-to-face interviews was conducted with 1392 park users from ten parks in Colombia. The survey included sociodemographic questions, health condition assessed with EuroQuol-5-Dimensions-5-Levels; in addition, questions about accessibility to the parks and perceptions about quality of infrastructure and green areas were asked. The Spanish version of the questionnaire EUROHIS-QOL-8 items was applied to assess QoL. Log-binomial regression models were applied for analyses. Results: Years of schooling, visits to the park with a companion, active use of the park, a maximum score for quality of trees and walking paths, and the perception of safety on the way to the park were positively associated with a better QoL (p < 0.05). Health conditions related to problems in the ability to perform activities of daily living and anxiety/depression showed negative associations. Conclusions: The present study contributes to the Latin American studies by providing information on how parks in an intermediate city may contribute to increased QoL of park users through safety in neighborhoods, social support, active use, and aesthetics, cleanliness, and care of green areas.
Bone Marrow-Derived Stem Cell Populations Are Differentially Regulated by Thyroid or/and Ovarian Hormone Loss
Authors: Mogharbel Bassam , Abdelwahid Eltyeb , Irioda Ana , Francisco Julio , Simeoni Rossana , De Souza Daiany , De Souza Carolina , Beltrame Míriam , Ferreira Reginaldo , Guarita-Souza Luiz , De Carvalho Katherine
Published: October 2017

Bone marrow-derived stem cells (BMDSCs) play an essential role in organ repair and regeneration. The molecular mechanisms by which hormones control BMDSCs proliferation and differentiation are unclear. Our aim in this study was to investigate how a lack of ovarian or/and thyroid hormones affects stem cell number in bone marrow lineage. To examine the effect of thyroid or/and ovarian hormones on the proliferative activity of BMDSCs, we removed the thyroid or/and the ovaries of adult female rats. An absence of ovarian and thyroid hormones was confirmed by Pap staining and Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) measurement, respectively. To obtain the stem cells from the bone marrow, we punctured the iliac crest, and aspirated and isolated cells by using a density gradient. Specific markers were used by cytometry to identify the different BMDSCs types: endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs), precursor B cells/pro-B cells, and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Interestingly, our results showed that hypothyroidism caused a significant increase in the percentage of EPCs, whereas a lack of ovarian hormones significantly increased the precursor B cells/pro-B cells. Moreover, the removal of both glands led to increased MSCs. In conclusion, both ovarian and thyroid hormones appear to have key and diverse roles in regulating the proliferation of cells populations of the bone marrow.
Protective Effect of Argan and Olive Oils against LPS-Induced Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Mice Livers
Authors: El Kamouni Soufiane , El Kebbaj Riad , Andreoletti Pierre , El Ktaibi Abderrahim , Rharrassi Issam , Essamadi Abdelkhalid , El Kebbaj M’hammed , Mandard Stéphane , Latruffe Norbert , Vamecq Joseph , Nasser Boubker , Cherkaoui-Malki Mustapha
Published: October 2017

Sepsis causes severe dysregulation of organ functions, via the development of oxidative stress and inflammation. These pathophysiological mechanisms are mimicked in mice injected with bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Here, protective properties of argan oil against LPS-induced oxidative stress and inflammation are explored in the murine model. Mice received standard chow, supplemented with argan oil (AO) or olive oil (OO) for 25 days, before septic shock was provoked with a single intraperitoneal injection of LPS, 16 hours prior to animal sacrifice. In addition to a rise in oxidative stress and inflammatory markers, injected LPS also caused hepatotoxicity, accompanied by hyperglycemia, hypercholesterolemia and hyperuremia. These LPS-associated toxic effects were blunted by AO pretreatment, as corroborated by normal plasma parameters and cell stress markers (glutathione: GSH) and antioxidant enzymology (catalase, CAT; superoxide dismutase, SOD and glutathione peroxidase, GPx). Hematoxylin–eosin staining revealed that AO can protect against acute liver injury, maintaining a normal status, which is pointed out by absent or reduced LPS-induced hepatic damage markers (i.e., alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST)). Our work also indicated that AO displayed anti-inflammatory activity, due to down-regulations of genes encoding pro-inflammatory cytokines Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and Tumor Necrosis Factor-α (TNF-α) and in up-regulations of the expression of anti-inflammatory genes encoding Interleukin-4 (IL-4) and Interleukin-10 (IL-10). OO provided animals with similar, though less extensive, protective changes. Collectively our work adds compelling evidence to the protective mechanisms of AO against LPS-induced liver injury and hence therapeutic potentialities, in regard to the management of human sepsis. Activations of IL-4/Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptors (IL-4/PPARs) signaling and, under LPS, an anti-inflammatory IL-10/Liver X Receptor (IL-10/LXR) route, obviously indicated the high potency and plasticity of the anti-inflammatory properties of argan oil.
The Structure of Human Neuromuscular Junctions: Some Unanswered Molecular Questions
Authors: Slater Clarke
Published: October 2017

The commands that control animal movement are transmitted from motor neurons to their target muscle cells at the neuromuscular junctions (NMJs). The NMJs contain many protein species whose role in transmission depends not only on their inherent properties, but also on how they are distributed within the complex structure of the motor nerve terminal and the postsynaptic muscle membrane. These molecules mediate evoked chemical transmitter release from the nerve and the action of that transmitter on the muscle. Human NMJs are among the smallest known and release the smallest number of transmitter “quanta”. By contrast, they have the most deeply infolded postsynaptic membranes, which help to amplify transmitter action. The same structural features that distinguish human NMJs make them particularly susceptible to pathological processes. While much has been learned about the molecules which mediate transmitter release and action, little is known about the molecular processes that control the growth of the cellular and subcellular components of the NMJ so as to give rise to its mature form. A major challenge for molecular biologists is to understand the molecular basis for the development and maintenance of functionally important aspects of NMJ structure, and thereby to point to new directions for treatment of diseases in which neuromuscular transmission is impaired.
Vitamin D as a Novel Regulator of Tumor Metabolism: Insights on Potential Mechanisms and Implications for Anti-Cancer Therapy
Authors: Abu el Maaty Mohamed , Wölfl Stefan
Published: October 2017

1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1,25(OH)2D3], the bioactive form of vitamin D, has been shown to possess significant anti-tumor potential. While most studies so far have focused on the ability of this molecule to influence the proliferation and apoptosis of cancer cells, more recent data indicate that 1,25(OH)2D3 also impacts energy utilization in tumor cells. In this article, we summarize and review the evidence that demonstrates the targeting of metabolic aberrations in cancers by 1,25(OH)2D3, and highlight potential mechanisms through which these effects may be executed. We shed light on the ability of this molecule to regulate metabolism-related tumor suppressors and oncogenes, energy- and nutrient-sensing pathways, as well as cell death and survival mechanisms such as autophagy.
Effects of Short-Term Probiotic Ingestion on Immune Profiles and Microbial Translocation among HIV-1-Infected Vietnamese Children
Authors: Ishizaki Azumi , Bi Xiuqiong , Nguyen Lam , Matsuda Kazunori , Pham Hung , Phan Chung , Khu Dung , Ichimura Hiroshi
Published: October 2017

Here, we investigated the effects of the probiotic strain Lactobacillus casei Shirota (LcS) on immune profiles and intestinal microbial translocation among children infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). This prospective study included 60 HIV-infected children—including 31 without antiretroviral therapy (ART) (HIV(+)) and 29 who received ART for a median of 3.5 years (ART(+)) and 20 children without HIV infection (HIV(−)). Participants were recruited in Vietnam. All children were given fermented milk containing LcS (6.5 × 109 cfu) daily for 8 weeks. Before and after LcS ingestion, blood samples were collected for virological, immunological, and bacteriological analyses. After LcS ingestion, peripheral CD4+ T-cell and Th2 (CXCR3−CCR6−CD4+) counts significantly increased in both HIV-infected groups; Th17 (CXCR3−CCR6+CD4+) counts increased in all three groups; regulatory T-cell (CD25highCD4+) counts decreased in the ART(+) and HIV(−) groups; activated CD8+ cells (CD38+HLA-DR+CD8+) decreased from 27.5% to 13.2% (p < 0.001) in HIV(+) children; and plasma HIV load decreased slightly but significantly among HIV(+) children. No group showed a significantly altered frequency of bacterial 16S/23S rRNA gene detection in the plasma. No serious adverse events occurred. These findings suggest that short-term LcS ingestion is a safe supportive approach with immunological and virological benefits in HIV-infected children.
Regulation of E2F1 Transcription Factor by Ubiquitin Conjugation
Authors: Dubrez Laurence
Published: October 2017

Ubiquitination is a post-translational modification that defines the cellular fate of intracellular proteins. It can modify their stability, their activity, their subcellular location, and even their interacting pattern. This modification is a reversible event whose implementation is easy and fast. It contributes to the rapid adaptation of the cells to physiological intracellular variations and to intracellular or environmental stresses. E2F1 (E2 promoter binding factor 1) transcription factor is a potent cell cycle regulator. It displays contradictory functions able to regulate both cell proliferation and cell death. Its expression and activity are tightly regulated over the course of the cell cycle progression and in response to genotoxic stress. I discuss here the most recent evidence demonstrating the role of ubiquitination in E2F1’s regulation.
Investigation on the Flow in a Rotor-Stator Cavity with Centripetal Through-Flow
Authors: Hu Bo , Brillert Dieter , Dohmen Hans , Benra Friedrich-Karl
Published: October 2017

Daily and Nece distinguished four flow regimes in an enclosed rotor-stator cavity, which are dependent on the circumferential Reynolds number and dimensionless axial gap width. A diagram of the different flow regimes including the respective mean profiles for both tangential and radial velocity was developed. The coefficients for the different flow regimes have also been correlated. In centrifugal pumps and turbines, the centripetal through-flow is quite common from the outer radius of the impeller to the impeller eye, which has a strong influence on the radial pressure distribution, axial thrust and frictional torque. The influence of the centripetal through-flow on the cavity flow with different circumferential Reynolds numbers and dimensionless axial gap width is not sufficiently investigated. It is also quite important to convert the 2D Daily and Nece diagram into 3D by introducing the through-flow coefficient. In order to investigate the impact of the centripetal through-flow, a test rig is designed and built up at the University of Duisburg-Essen. The design of the test rig is described. The impact of the above mentioned parameters on the velocity profile, pressure distribution, axial thrust and frictional torque are presented and analyzed in this paper. The 3D Daily and Nece diagram introducing the through-flow coefficient is also organized in this paper.
Integrating Autism Care through a School-Based Intervention Model: A Pilot Study
Authors: Dang Katherine , Bent Stephen , Lawton Brittany , Warren Tracy , Widjaja Felicia , McDonald Michael , Breard Michael , O’Keefe Whitney , Hendren Robert
Published: October 2017

The purpose of this pilot study is to determine the feasibility of monitoring the progress of children with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) both in school and at home to promote a school-based integrated care model between parents, teachers, and medical providers. This is a prospective cohort study. To monitor progress, outcome measures were administered via an online platform developed for caregivers and teachers of children (n = 30) attending a school specializing in neurodevelopmental disorders and using an integrated medical and education program. Longitudinal analysis showed improvements in a novel scale, the Teacher Autism Progress Scale (TAPS), which was designed to measure key autism-related gains in a school environment (2.1-point improvement, p = 0.004, ES = 0.324). The TAPS showed a strong and statistically significant correlation, with improvement in aberrant behavior (r = −0.50; p = 0.008) and social responsiveness (r = −0.70; p < 0.001). The results also showed non-statistically significant improvements in aberrant behavior, social responsiveness, and quality of life over time at both school and home. To assess feasibility of ongoing progress measurement, we assessed missing data, which showed caregivers were more likely to miss surveys during summer. Results demonstrate the value and feasibility of online, longitudinal data collection in school to assist with individualized education planning and collaborative care for children with ASD. Lessons learned in this pilot will support school outcomes researchers in developing more efficacious, collaborative treatment plans between clinicians, caregivers, and teachers.
Detection and Classification of Land Crude Oil Spills Using Color Segmentation and Texture Analysis
Authors: Ejofodomi O’tega , Ofualagba Godswill
Published: October 2017

Crude oil spills have negative consequences on the economy, environment, health and society in which they occur, and the severity of the consequences depends on how quickly these spills are detected once they begin. Several methods have been employed for spill detection, including real time remote surveillance by flying aircrafts with surveillance teams. Other methods employ various sensors, including visible sensors. This paper presents an algorithm to automatically detect the presence of crude oil spills in images acquired using visible light sensors. Images of crude oil spills used in the development of the algorithm were obtained from the Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) Nigeria website The major steps of the detection algorithm are image preprocessing, crude oil color segmentation, sky elimination segmentation, Region of Interest (ROI) extraction, ROI texture feature extraction, and ROI texture feature analysis and classification. The algorithm was developed using 25 sample images containing crude oil spills and demonstrated a sensitivity of 92% and an FPI of 1.43. The algorithm was further tested on a set of 56 case images and demonstrated a sensitivity of 82% and an FPI of 0.66. This algorithm can be incorporated into spill detection systems that utilize visible sensors for early detection of crude oil spills.
Nucleation/Growth Mechanisms and Morphological Evolution of Porous MnO2 Coating Deposited on Graphite for Supercapacitor
Authors: Huang Wenxin , Li Jun , Xu Yunhe
Published: October 2017

The nucleation and growth mechanisms of porous MnO2 coating deposited on graphite in MnSO4 solution were investigated in detail by cyclic voltammetry, chronoamperometry and scanning electron microscopy. The electrochemical properties of honeycomb-like MnO2 were evaluated by cycle voltammetry and galvanostatic charge-discharge. Results indicated that MnO2 was synthesized by the following steps: Mn2+→ Mn3++ e-, Mn3++2H2O → MnOOH + 3H+, and MnOOH → MnO2 + H++ e-. The deposition of MnO2 was divided into four stages. A short incubation period (approximately 1.5 s) was observed, prior to nucleation. The decreasing trend of the current slowed as time increased due to nucleation and MnO2 growth in the second stage. A huge number of nuclei were formed by instantaneous nucleation, and these nuclei grew and connected with one another at an exceedingly short time (0.5 s). In the third stage, the gaps in-between initial graphite flakes were filled with MnO2 until the morphology of the flakes gradually became similar to that of the MnO2-deposited layer. In the fourth stage, the graphite electrode was covered completely with a thick and dense layer of MnO2 deposits. All MnO2 electrodes at different deposition times obtained nearly the same specific capacitance of approximately 186 F/g, thus indicating that the specific capacitance of the electrodes is not related with deposition time.
Rotating Electrical Machine Condition Monitoring Automation—A Review
Authors: Kande Mallikarjun , Isaksson Alf , Thottappillil Rajeev , Taylor Nathaniel
Published: October 2017

We review existing machine condition monitoring techniques and industrial automation for plant-wide condition monitoring of rotating electrical machines. Cost and complexity of a condition monitoring system increase with the number of measurements, so extensive condition monitoring is currently mainly restricted to the situations where the consequences of poor availability, yield or quality are so severe that they clearly justify the investment in monitoring. There are challenges to obtaining plant-wide monitoring that includes even small machines and non-critical applications. One of the major inhibiting factors is the ratio of condition monitoring cost to equipment cost, which is crucial to the acceptance of using monitoring to guide maintenance for a large fleet of electrical machinery. Ongoing developments in sensing, communication and computation for industrial automation may greatly extend the set of machines for which extensive monitoring is viable.
Chitosan Ascorbate Nanoparticles for the Vaginal Delivery of Antibiotic Drugs in Atrophic Vaginitis
Authors: Rossi Silvia , Vigani Barbara , Puccio Antonella , Bonferoni Maria , Sandri Giuseppina , Ferrari Franca
Published: October 2017

The aim of the present work was the development of chitosan ascorbate nanoparticles (CSA NPs) loaded into a fast-dissolving matrix for the delivery of antibiotic drugs in the treatment of atrophic vaginitis. CSA NPs loaded with amoxicillin trihydrate (AX) were obtained by ionotropic gelation in the presence of pentasodium tripolyphosphate (TPP). Different CSA:TPP and CSA:AX weight ratios were considered and their influence on the particle size, polydispersion index and production yield were investigated. CSA NPs were characterized for mucoadhesive, wound healing and antimicrobial properties. Subsequently, CSA NPs were loaded in polymeric matrices, whose composition was optimized using a DoE (Design of Experiments) approach (simplex centroid design). Matrices were obtained by freeze-drying aqueous solutions of three hydrophilic excipients, polyvinylpirrolidone, mannitol and glycin. They should possess a mechanical resistance suitable for the administration into the vaginal cavity and should readily dissolve in the vaginal fluid. In addition to antioxidant properties, due to the presence of ascorbic acid, CSA NPs showed in vitro mucoadhesive, wound healing and antimicrobial properties. In particular, nanoparticles were characterized by an improved antimicrobial activity with respect to a chitosan solution, prepared at the same concentration. The optimized matrix was characterized by mechanical resistance and by the fast release in simulated vaginal fluid of nanoparticles characterized by unchanged size.
Bacterial Substrate Transformation Tracked by Stable-Isotope-Guided NMR Metabolomics: Application in a Natural Aquatic Microbial Community
Authors: Uchimiya Mario , Tsuboi Yuuri , Ito Kengo , Date Yasuhiro , Kikuchi Jun
Published: October 2017

The transformation of organic substrates by heterotrophic bacteria in aquatic environments constitutes one of the key processes in global material cycles. The development of procedures that would enable us to track the wide range of organic compounds transformed by aquatic bacteria would greatly improve our understanding of material cycles. In this study, we examined the applicability of nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy coupled with stable-isotope labeling to the investigation of metabolite transformation in a natural aquatic bacterial community. The addition of a model substrate (13C6–glucose) to a coastal seawater sample and subsequent incubation resulted in the detection of >200 peaks and the assignment of 22 metabolites from various chemical classes, including amino acids, dipeptides, organic acids, nucleosides, nucleobases, and amino alcohols, which had been identified as transformed from the 13C6–glucose. Additional experiments revealed large variability in metabolite transformation and the key compounds, showing the bacterial accumulation of glutamate over the incubation period, and that of 3-hydroxybutyrate with increasing concentrations of 13C6–glucose added. These results suggest the potential ability of our approach to track substrate transformation in aquatic bacterial communities. Further applications of this procedure may provide substantial insights into the metabolite dynamics in aquatic environments.
Precise Placement of Metallic Nanowires on a Substrate by Localized Electric Fields and Inter-Nanowire Electrostatic Interaction
Authors: Choi U , Kim Jaekyun
Published: October 2017

Placing nanowires at the predetermined locations on a substrate represents one of the significant hurdles to be tackled for realization of heterogeneous nanowire systems. Here, we demonstrate spatially-controlled assembly of a single nanowire at the photolithographically recessed region at the electrode gap with high integration yield (~90%). Two popular routes, such as protruding electrode tips and recessed wells, for spatially-controlled nanowire alignment, are compared to investigate long-range dielectrophoretic nanowire attraction and short-range nanowire-nanowire electrostatic interaction for determining the final alignment of attracted nanowires. Furthermore, the post-assembly process has been developed and tested to make a robust electrical contact to the assembled nanowires, which removes any misaligned ones and connects the nanowires to the underlying electrodes of circuit.
Analysis of a Community Pharmacy Intervention to Improve Low Adherence Rates to Oral Diabetes Medications
Authors: Singleton Jerica , Veach Stevie , Catney Christine , Witry Matthew
Published: October 2017

For patients with diabetes, suboptimal medication adherence contributes to disease progression, complications, and increased healthcare costs. Identification of, and intervention for patient-identified reasons for nonadherence are essential to improving medication adherence. This prospective, quality improvement study was conducted at an independent community pharmacy in the Mid-West United States. Patients with a proportion of days covered (PDC) for their oral antidiabetic medications of less than 80% were contacted by telephone and interviewed by a clinical pharmacist. The interviews and corresponding adherence interventions were guided by an abbreviated version of the Drug Adherence Work-Up (DRAW©) tool that focused on oral medications for diabetes. The change in PDC 120-days post-interview was assessed to determine the change in adherence rates. Patients receiving the pharmacist-delivered adherence intervention had significantly higher 120 day PDC values which are likely to indicate more regular medication-taking at home. Almost half of study patients signed up for medication synchronization and these patients trended toward higher PDC values, although the relative difference was not statistically significant from those receiving the intervention and not opting to have their medications synchronized.
(Cryo)Transmission Electron Microscopy of Phospholipid Model Membranes Interacting with Amphiphilic and Polyphilic Molecules
Authors: Meister Annette , Blume Alfred
Published: October 2017

Lipid membranes can incorporate amphiphilic or polyphilic molecules leading to specific functionalities and to adaptable properties of the lipid bilayer host. The insertion of guest molecules into membranes frequently induces changes in the shape of the lipid matrix that can be visualized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques. Here, we review the use of stained and vitrified specimens in (cryo)TEM to characterize the morphology of amphiphilic and polyphilic molecules upon insertion into phospholipid model membranes. Special emphasis is placed on the impact of novel synthetic amphiphilic and polyphilic bolalipids and polymers on membrane integrity and shape stability.
Evaluation of Chitosan and Cellulosic Polymers as Binding Adsorbent Materials to Prevent Aflatoxin B1, Fumonisin B1, Ochratoxin, Trichothecene, Deoxynivalenol, and Zearalenone Mycotoxicoses Through an In Vitro Gastrointestinal Model for Poultry
Authors: Solís-Cruz Bruno , Hernández-Patlán Daniel , Beyssac Eric , Latorre Juan , Hernandez-Velasco Xochitl , Merino-Guzman Ruben , Tellez Guillermo , López-Arellano Raquel
Published: October 2017

Mycotoxins are secondary toxic metabolites that are produced by fungi representing threats to human and animal health. The objective of this study was to evaluate the adsorption capacity of Chitosan (CHI), and three cellulosic polymers (HPMC, CMC, and MCC), on six mycotoxins (AFB1; FUB1; OTA; T-2; DON; and, ZEA) using an in vitro digestive model for poultry. The adsorbent capacity of the materials in the supernatant of each compartment was evaluated by a non-competitive chemiluminescent assay. Control groups with no adsorbent material had an adsorption value of 0.00% against all six mycotoxins that were evaluated. All four materials tested showed significant (p < 0.05) binding activity against all of the mycotoxins when compared with the control non-treated group. However HPMC, CMC, and MCC showed better adsorbent capacity when compared with CHI.
Polyimide Aerogels Cross-Linked with Aminated Ag Nanowires: Mechanically Strong and Tough
Authors: Zhang Tianyi , Zhao Yan , Wang Kai
Published: October 2017

In this study, polyimide (PI)/Ag nanowire (AgNW) nanocomposite aerogels with extremely high mechanical performance have been fabricated utilizing amine-modified AgNWs as mechanical nanoreinforcement particulates and crosslinking agents. Initially, AgNWs were fabricated and surface modified by p-aminothiophenol (PATP), then the aminated AgNWs were dispersed into polyamide acid solution and aerogels were prepared by supercritical CO2 drying. Raman and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) spectrometry were carried out on A-AgNWs (aminated Ag nanowires) to prove the successful modification. This functional nanoparticle greatly enhanced the strength and toughness of aerogels without evident increase in densities. Comparing to pure PI aerogels, samples with 2.0 wt % of A-AgNWs had a 148% increase in compression strength and 223% increase in Young’s modulus, which equates to 2.41 and 27.66 MPa, respectively. Simultaneously, the tensile test indicated that aerogels with 2.0 wt % of A-AgNWs had a breaking energy of 40.18 J/m3, which is 112% higher than pure PI aerogels. The results presented herein demonstrate that aminated AgNWs are an innovative cross-linker for PI aerogels and can improve their strength and toughness. These aerogels have excellent potential as high-duty, lightweight porous materials in many areas of application.
Historical Review of Waste Management and Recycling in South Africa
Authors: Godfrey Linda , Oelofse Suzan
Published: October 2017

Recycling has been taking place in South Africa for more than three decades, driven by social and economic needs. While the waste hierarchy is embedded in national policy, an extensive legislative framework has made it more and more challenging for the public and private sector to remain compliant and competitive in a local and global market, and still drive waste away from landfill towards reuse, recycling and recovery. A local recycling economy, on par with many developed countries, is in part due to a large and active informal waste sector. In the absence of separation at source across South African cities and towns, informal waste pickers have been key to accessing resources which the private sector has struggled to access, due to gatekeeping by municipalities. The South African waste and recycling sector can be defined in terms of four main stages of development—“The Age of Landfilling”, “The Emergence of Recycling”, “The Flood of Regulation” and “The Drive for EPR”, and is currently standing on the brink of a fifth stage—“The future is a Circular Economy”. The low hanging fruit, the easy to collect and recycle products, has been reaped. Moving to higher diversion from landfill targets will require more investment by the private sector and by government in the future. The social, economic and environmental benefits of doing this are clear, but must be balanced against the cost that will ultimately be borne by society, as consumers.
The Potential of Earth Observation for the Analysis of Cold Region Land Surface Dynamics in Europe—A Review
Authors: Hu Zhongyang , Kuenzer Claudia , Dietz Andreas J. , Dech Stefan
Published: October 2017

Cold regions affect global, regional and local climate; oftentimes they are relevant for water supply, host valuable ecosystems, and support human livelihood. They are thus eminently important for human society. In the context of ongoing climate change, monitoring and understanding cold region land surface dynamics is essential for environmental scientists, stakeholders and decision makers. However, the definition of cold regions remains inexplicit, and no up-to-date cold region maps or overarching spatial analyses exist. For example, Europe has densely populated cold regions, but hardly an article exists that provides a solid overview of Earth Observation (EO) based applications assessing cold region land surface dynamics in Europe. With this review article we aim at closing this gap by providing an overview of EO-based techniques for cold region observation in Europe, focusing on the dynamics of glaciers and snow. We present a novel spatial delineation of cold regions for Europe before analyzing the benefits and limitations of different EO sensor types and data processing methods for EO based cold region research. Furthermore, we identify research gaps and discuss challenges for future studies.
Optical Sensing of Weed Infestations at Harvest
Authors: Barroso Judit , McCallum John , Long Dan
Published: October 2017

Kochia (Kochia scoparia L.), Russian thistle (Salsola tragus L.), and prickly lettuce (Lactuca serriola L.) are economically important weeds infesting dryland wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) production systems in the western United States. Those weeds produce most of their seeds post-harvest. The objectives of this study were to determine the ability of an optical sensor, installed for on-the-go measurement of grain protein concentration, to detect the presence of green plant matter in flowing grain and assess the potential usefulness of this information for mapping weeds at harvest. Spectra of the grain stream were recorded continuously at a rate of 0.33 Hz during harvest of two spring wheat fields of 1.9 and 5.4 ha. All readings were georeferenced using a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver with 1 m positional accuracy. Chlorophyll of green plant matter was detectable in the red (638–710 nm) waveband. Maps of the chlorophyll signal from both fields showed an overall agreement of 78.1% with reference maps, one constructed prior to harvest and the other at harvest time, both based on visual evaluations of the three green weed species conducted by experts. Information on weed distributions at harvest may be useful for controlling post-harvest using variable rate technology for herbicide applications.
Alleviate Similar Object in Visual Tracking via Online Learning Interference-Target Spatial Structure
Authors: Shi Guokai , Xu Tingfa , Luo Jiqiang , Guo Jie , Zhao Zishu
Published: October 2017

Correlation Filter (CF) based trackers have demonstrated superior performance to many complex scenes in smart and autonomous systems, but similar object interference is still a challenge. When the target is occluded by a similar object, they not only have similar appearance feature but also are in same surrounding context. Existing CF tracking models only consider the target’s appearance information and its surrounding context, and have insufficient discrimination to address the problem. We propose an approach that integrates interference-target spatial structure (ITSS) constraints into existing CF model to alleviate similar object interference. Our approach manages a dynamic graph of ITSS online, and jointly learns the target appearance model, similar object appearance model and the spatial structure between them to improve the discrimination between the target and a similar object. Experimental results on large benchmark datasets OTB-2013 and OTB-2015 show that the proposed approach achieves state-of-the-art performance.
Organized Sport Participation and Physical Activity Levels among Adolescents with Functional Limitations
Authors: Ng Kwok , Rintala Pauli , Hutzler Yeshayahu , Kokko Sami , Tynjälä Jorma
Published: October 2017

Sufficient and regular physical activity is considered a protective factor, reducing the onset of secondary disability conditions in adolescents with chronic diseases and functional limitations. The aim of this study was to explore whether participation in organized sport may be associated to higher levels of physical activity in adolescents with functional limitations, based on a national representative sample. Data from the Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) study collected in Finland from two data collection rounds (2002 and 2010) were conducted and pooled from adolescents aged between 13 and 15 years old with functional limitations (n = 1041). Differences in self-reported physical activity over the past week and participation in organized sport activity were analysed for each function. Overall, four in ten (n = 413) participated in organized sport and were significantly (p < 0.001) more physically active (mean = 4.92days, SD = 1.81) than their non-participating (mean = 3.29, SD = 1.86) peers with functional limitations. Despite low population prevalence, adolescents with epilepsy or visual impairments were the least active if they were not participating in organized sport, yet were the most active if they were involved in organized sport. Participating in organized sport appears to be an important factor promoting resources for maintaining recommended levels of physical activity in Finnish adolescents with functional limitations.
SINR-Based MCS Level Adaptation in CSMA/CA Wireless Networks to Embrace IoT Devices
Authors: Cho Soohyun
Published: October 2017

This paper presents an automatic modulation and coding scheme (MCS) level adaptation algorithm to embrace Internet of Things (IoT) devices by improving the area spectral efficiency of carrier-sense multiple access with collision avoidance (CSMA/CA) wireless networks. In the proposed algorithm, senders of CSMA/CA wireless networks use the signal to interference plus noise ratio of acknowledgment frames from their receivers to estimate channel statuses between the senders and the receivers. Using the estimated channel status of each receiver, senders control sending rates of traffic by adjusting MCS levels of packets destined for each receiver. We use Poisson point processes (PPPs) to model the locations of participating nodes (i.e., access points and wireless devices) in a given area. We evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm using an event-driven ns-2 simulator for various PPP densities of access points and wireless devices.
Internet of THings Area Coverage Analyzer (ITHACA) for Complex Topographical Scenarios
Authors: Parada Raúl , Cárdenes-Tacoronte Daniel , Monzo Carlos , Melià-Seguí Joan
Published: October 2017

The number of connected devices is increasing worldwide. Not only in contexts like the Smart City, but also in rural areas, to provide advanced features like smart farming or smart logistics. Thus, wireless network technologies to efficiently allocate Internet of Things (IoT) and Machine to Machine (M2M) communications are necessary. Traditional cellular networks like Global System for Mobile communications (GSM) are widely used worldwide for IoT environments. Nevertheless, Low Power Wide Area Networks (LP-WAN) are becoming widespread as infrastructure for present and future IoT and M2M applications. Based also on a subscription service, the LP-WAN technology SIGFOXTM may compete with cellular networks in the M2M and IoT communications market, for instance in those projects where deploying the whole communications infrastructure is too complex or expensive. For decision makers to decide the most suitable technology for each specific application, signal coverage is within the key features. Unfortunately, besides simulated coverage maps, decision-makers do not have real coverage maps for SIGFOXTM, as they can be found for cellular networks. Thereby, we propose Internet of THings Area Coverage Analyzer (ITHACA), a signal analyzer prototype to provide automated signal coverage maps and analytics for LP-WAN. Experiments performed in the Gran Canaria Island, Spain (with both urban and complex topographic rural environments), returned a real SIGFOXTM service availability above 97% and above 11% more coverage with respect to the company-provided simulated maps. We expect that ITHACA may help decision makers to deploy the most suitable technologies for future IoT and M2M projects.
Is human classification by experienced untrained observers a gold standard in fixation detection?
Authors: Hooge Ignace T. C. , Niehorster Diederick C. , Nyström Marcus , Andersson Richard , Hessels Roy S.
Published: October 2017

Manual classification is still a common method to evaluate event detection algorithms. The procedure is often as follows: Two or three human coders and the algorithm classify a significant quantity of data. In the gold standard approach, deviations from the human classifications are considered to be due to mistakes of the algorithm. However, little is known about human classification in eye tracking. To what extent do the classifications from a larger group of human coders agree? Twelve experienced but untrained human coders classified fixations in 6 min of adult and infant eye-tracking data. When using the sample-based Cohen’s kappa, the classifications of the humans agreed near perfectly. However, we found substantial differences between the classifications when we examined fixation duration and number of fixations. We hypothesized that the human coders applied different (implicit) thresholds and selection rules. Indeed, when spatially close fixations were merged, most of the classification differences disappeared. On the basis of the nature of these intercoder differences, we concluded that fixation classification by experienced untrained human coders is not a gold standard. To bridge the gap between agreement measures (e.g., Cohen’s kappa) and eye movement parameters (fixation duration, number of fixations), we suggest the use of the event-based F1 score and two new measures: the relative timing offset (RTO) and the relative timing deviation (RTD).
Regiodivergent condensation of 5-alkoxycarbonyl-1H-pyrrol-2,3-diones with cyclic ketazinones en route to spirocyclic scaffolds
Authors: Dubovtsev Alexey Yu , Dmitriev Maksim V , Maslivets Аndrey N , Rubin Michael
Published: October 2017

The condensation of 5-alkoxycarbonyl-1H-pyrrolediones with cyclic ketazinones was systematically investigated. It was discovered that the regioselectivity of this reaction can be easily swapped between two alternative directions affording derivatives of partially hydrogenated indole or benzofurane. The control of this regioselectivity is efficiently governed by steric effects at the hydrazone moiety of the ketazinone reagent.
"My naturesound" - nature observations with sound recordings
Authors: Runnel Veljo , Peterson Marko , Zirk Allan
Published: October 2017

Online systems for observation reporting by citizen scientists have been operating for many years. iNaturalist (California Academy of Sciences 2016), eBird (Cornell Lab of Ornithology 2016) and Observado (Observation International 2016) are well-known international systems, Artportalen (Swedish Species Information Centre 2016) and Artsobservasjoner (Norwegian Biodiversity Information Centre 2016) are Scandinavian. In addition, databases and online solutions exist that are more directly research-oriented but still offer participation by citizen scientists, such as the PlutoF (University of Tartu Natural History Museum 2016) platform. The University of Tartu Natural History Museum maintains the PlutoF platform (Abarenkov et al. 2010) for storing and managing biodiversity data, including taxon observations. In 2014, development was started to integrate an observation app "Minu loodusheli"/"My naturesound" (University of Tartu Natural History Museum 2017b) (My naturesound, Fig. 1) within PlutoF system. In 2017, an English language version of the app (University of Tartu Natural History Museum 2017c) was launched that includes nearly all major sound-producing taxon groups in its taxonomy. The application also acts as a practical tool for collecting and publishing occurrence data for the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (Global Biodiversity Information Facility 2017) in standardized Darwin Core format together with download links to the multimedia files. Although the sound recording ability of mobile phones opens new opportunities to validate taxon occurrences, current technological solutions limit the use of recordings in biodiversity research.

The "My naturesound" allows the user to record taxon occurrences and to provide audio recordings as evidence. After installing the application, the user is promted to login with PlutoF system credentials or to register with PlutoF. The application is targeted primarely to citizen scientists, but researchers themselves can also use it as a tool for easy annotation of taxon occurrences.

The dataset consists observation data of birds, amphibians and insects by citizen scientists with on site audio recordings. The dataset gives the possibility to analyze the suitablility of mobile devices for recording animal vocalizations and their use in reporting.
Omni-Channel Retailing and Perceived Service Quality
Authors: Patten Elena Margareta
Published: October 2017

The consumers´ purchasing behaviour has changed tremendously with the development of multichannel retailing. Consumers nowadays tend to switch retail channels during their purchasing process. In this context, the term ‘omni-channel retailing' can be considered as the most advanced stage of a multichannel-retailing system, implying full customer interaction and retailer integration. In order to address changing consumer behaviour, multichannel retailing companies still need to learn how to be able to provide a seamless interaction with customers through multiple channels. In this context, the evaluation and understanding of service quality in multichannel retailing companies has developed and has become a topic of major interest for both academics and practitioners. The purpose of this chapter is to provide some insights about the concept of multichannel integration considering the different elements of the retail-mix.
Sustainable Knowledge Management Strategies
Authors: Bedford Denise A.D.
Published: October 2017

Knowledge organizations have been challenged to develop sustainable, actionable and business oriented knowledge management strategies. Many strategies published in the peer reviewed and gray literature include tactics, principle, platitudes and checklists. Organizations often borrow templates from associations or other organizations as starting points for formulating their strategies. These strategies often fall short of expectations. This chapter proposes a framework for an organization to walk through the process of developing a knowledge management strategy that aligns with business-critical capabilities, identifies the intellectual capital and knowledge assets required to support those capabilities, aligns assets and capabilities, and creates a foundation for selecting and monitoring tactics to invest in and manage liabilities associated with those assets. The chapter recommends a strategic infrastructure that is comparable to those developed for financial and physical assets.