bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Groups, Special Functions and Rigged Hilbert Spaces
Authors: Celeghini Enrico , Gadella Manuel , del Olmo Mariano A.
Published: July 2019

We show that Lie groups and their respective algebras, special functions and rigged Hilbert spaces are complementary concepts that coexist together in a common framework and that they are aspects of the same mathematical reality. Special functions serve as bases for infinite dimensional Hilbert spaces supporting linear unitary irreducible representations of a given Lie group. These representations are explicitly given by operators on the Hilbert space H and the generators of the Lie algebra are represented by unbounded self-adjoint operators. The action of these operators on elements of continuous bases is often considered. These continuous bases do not make sense as vectors in the Hilbert space; instead, they are functionals on the dual space, Φ × , of a rigged Hilbert space, Φ ⊂ H ⊂ Φ × . In fact, rigged Hilbert spaces are the structures in which both, discrete orthonormal and continuous bases may coexist. We define the space of test vectors Φ and a topology on it at our convenience, depending on the studied group. The generators of the Lie algebra can often be continuous operators on Φ with its own topology, so that they admit continuous extensions to the dual Φ × and, therefore, act on the elements of the continuous basis. We investigate this formalism for various examples of interest in quantum mechanics. In particular, we consider S O ( 2 ) and functions on the unit circle, S U ( 2 ) and associated Laguerre functions, Weyl–Heisenberg group and Hermite functions, S O ( 3 , 2 ) and spherical harmonics, s u ( 1 , 1 ) and Laguerre functions, s u ( 2 , 2 ) and algebraic Jacobi functions and, finally, s u ( 1 , 1 ) ⊕ s u ( 1 , 1 ) and Zernike functions on a circle.
In Vitro Interactions of Moroccan Propolis Phytochemical’s on Human Tumor Cell Lines and Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Authors: Falcão Soraia I. , Calhelha Ricardo C. , Touzani Soumaya , Lyoussi Badiaâ , Ferreira Isabel C. F. R. , Vilas-Boas Miguel
Published: July 2019

Propolis is a resin manufactured by bees through the mixture of plant exudates and waxes with secreted substances from their metabolism, resulting in a complex mixture of natural substances of which quality depends on the phytogeographic and climatic conditions around the hive. The present study investigated the contribution of phenolic compounds to the cytotoxic and anti-inflammatory activities of propolis. The phenolic composition was evaluated by liquid chromatography with diode-array detection coupled to electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (LC/DAD/ESI-MSn) analysis after phenolic extraction. The cytotoxicity of the extracts was checked using human tumor cell lines (MCF7- breast adenocarcinoma, NCI-H460- non-small cell lung carcinoma, HeLa- cervical carcinoma, HepG2- hepatocellular carcinoma, and MM127- malignant melanoma), as well as non-tumor cells (a porcine liver primary culture-PLP2). The anti-inflammatory activity was assessed using the murine macrophage (RAW 264.7) cell line. The results showed a composition rich in phenolic acids, such as caffeic and p-coumaric acid, as well as flavonoids, such as pinocembrin, pinobanksin, and pinobanksin-3-O-butyrate. Samples MP2 from Sefrou and MP3 from Moulay Yaâcoub presented a high concentration in phenolic compounds, while MP1 and MP4 from Boulemane and Immouzzer Mermoucha, respectively, showed similar composition with low bioactivity. The higher concentration of phenolic compound derivatives, which seems to be the most cytotoxic phenolic class, can explain the pronounced antitumor and anti-inflammatory activity observed for sample MP2.
Detection of Salmonella Typhimurium in Romaine Lettuce Using a Surface Plasmon Resonance Biosensor
Authors: Bhandari Devendra , Chen Fur-Chi , Bridgman Roger C.
Published: July 2019

Leafy vegetables have been associated with high-profile outbreaks causing severe illnesses. Timely and accurate identification of potential contamination is essential to ensure food safety. A surface plasmon resonance (SPR) assay has been developed for the detection of Salmonella Typhimurium in leafy vegetables. The assay utilizes a pair of well characterized monoclonal antibodies specific to the flagellin of S. Typhimurium. Samples of romaine lettuce contaminated with S. Typhimurium at different levels (between 0.9 and 5.9 log cfu/g) were pre-enriched in buffered peptone water. Three SPR assay formats, direct assay, sequential two-step sandwich assay, and pre-incubation one-step sandwich assay were evaluated. All three assay formats detect well even at a low level of contamination (0.9 log cfu/g). The SPR assay showed a high specificity for the detection of S. Typhimurium in the presence of other commensal bacteria in the romaine lettuce samples. The results also suggested that further purification of flagellin from the sample preparation using immunomagnetic separation did not improve the detection sensitivity of the SPR assay. The functional protocol developed in this study can be readily used for the detection of S. Typhimurium in leafy vegetables with high sensitivity and specificity.
Molecular Characteristics of Uveal Melanoma: Insights from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) Project
Authors: Bakhoum Mathieu F. , Esmaeli Bita
Published: July 2019

The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) uveal melanoma project was a comprehensive multi-platform deep molecular investigation of 80 uveal melanoma primary tissue samples supported by the National Cancer Institute. In addition to identification of important mutations for the first time, it identified four different clusters (subgroups) of patients paralleling prognosis. The findings of the TCGA marker paper are summarized in this review manuscript and other investigations that have stemmed from the findings of the TCGA project are reviewed.
Effect of pH, Surfactant, and Temperature on Mixed-Phase Structure and Band Gap Properties of BiNbO4 Nanoparticles Prepared Using Different Routes
Authors: Bakiro Maram , Hussein Ahmed Salwa , Alzamly Ahmed
Published: July 2019

α- and β-BiNbO4 nanoparticles were successfully prepared using three different routes, namely co-precipitation, hydrothermal, and citrate precursor methods. Structural characterization has been analyzed using powder X-ray diffraction where results confirmed the mixed-phase nature of the prepared powders. When co-precipitation method is applied, BiNbO4 prepared at pH 2 and calcined at 750 °C shows predominately the α-BiNbO4 owning the narrowest band gap of 2.86 eV, whereas an increase in the pH value resulted in the β-BiNbO4 phase being the predominant phase. On the other hand, samples prepared using citrate precursor method show co-existence of both α- and β-BiNbO4 at all pH values under study; however, at pH 10 the β-BiNbO4 was the dominant phase exhibiting a higher bandgap energy value of 3.16 eV. When applying the hydrothermal approach, BiNbO4 prepared at all pH ranges of the present study show a band gap >3.2 eV indicating their activity in the ultraviolet region of the spectrum. Moreover, increasing calcination temperature to 900 °C, a gradual transformation of α- to β was observed. Lastly, it was noticed that as the lattice volume increases, the band gap of prepared BiNbO4 decreases.
TIRF Microscope Image Sequences of Fluorescent IgE-FcεRI Receptor Complexes inside a FcεRI-Centric Synapse in RBL-2H3 Cells
Authors: Drawbond Rachel , Spendier Kathrin
Published: July 2019

Total internal reflection fluorescence (TIRF) microscope image sequences are commonly used to study receptors in live cells. The dataset presented herein facilitates the study of the IgE-FcεRI receptor signaling complex (IgE-RC) in rat basophilic leukemia (RBL-2H3) cells coming into contact with a supported lipid bilayer with 25 mol% N-dinitrophenyl-aminocaproyl phosphatidylethanolamine, modeling an immunological synapse. TIRF microscopy was used to image IgE-RCs within this FcεRI-centric synapse by loading RBL-2H3 cells with fluorescent anti-dinitrophenyl (anti-DNP) immunoglobulin E (IgE) in suspension for 24 h. Fluorescent anti-DNP IgE (IgE488) concentrations of this suspension increased from 10% to 100% and corresponding non-fluorescent anti-DNP IgE concentrations decreased from 90% to 0%. After the removal of unbound anti-DNP IgE, multiple image sequences were taken for each of these ten conditions. Prior to imaging, anti-DNP IgE-primed RBL-2H3 cells were either kept for a few minutes, for about 30 min, or for about one hour in Hanks buffer. The dataset contains 482 RBL-2H3 model synapse image stacks, dark images to correct for background intensity, and TIRF illumination profile images to correct for non-uniform TIRF illumination. After background subtraction, non-uniform illumination correction, and conversion of pixel units from analog-to-digital units to photo electrons, the average pixel intensity was calculated. The average pixel intensity within FcεRI-centric synapses for all three Hanks buffer conditions increased linearly at a rate of 0.42 ± 0.02 photo electrons per pixel per % IgE488 in suspension. RBL-2H3 cell degranulation was tested by detecting β-hexosaminidase activity. Prolonged RBL-2H3 cell exposure to Hanks buffer inhibited exocytosis in RBL-2H3 cells.
One-Dimensional Modelling of a Trilateral Flash Cycle System with Two-Phase Twin-Screw Expanders for Industrial Low-Grade Heat to Power Conversion
Authors: Bianchi Giuseppe , Marchionni Matteo , Kennedy Stuart , Miller Jeremy , Tassou Savvas
Published: July 2019

This paper provides an overview of a one-dimensional modelling methodology for equipment and systems for heat to power conversion based on a staggered grid space discretization and implemented in the commercial software GT-SUITE®. Particular attention is given to a newly developed modelling procedure for twin-screw machines that is based on a chamber modelling approach and considers leakage paths between cells and with the casing. This methodology is then applied to a low-grade heat to power conversion system based on a Trilateral Flash Cycle (TFC) equipped with two parallel two-phase twin-screw expanders and a control valve upstream of the machines to adapt the fluid quality for an optimal expander operation. The standalone expander model is used to generate performance maps of the machine, which serve as inputs for the TFC system model. Parametric analyses are eventually carried out to assess the impact of several operating parameters of the TFC unit on the recovered power and cycle thermal efficiency. The study shows that the most influencing factors on the TFC system’s performance are the inlet temperature of the heat source and the expander speed. While the first depends on the topping industrial process, the expander speed can be used to optimize and control the TFC system operation also in transient or off-design operating conditions.
Quantum Phonon Transport in Nanomaterials: Combining Atomistic with Non-Equilibrium Green’s Function Techniques
Authors: Medrano Sandonas Leonardo , Gutierrez Rafael , Pecchia Alessandro , Croy Alexander , Cuniberti Gianaurelio
Published: July 2019

A crucial goal for increasing thermal energy harvesting will be to progress towards atomistic design strategies for smart nanodevices and nanomaterials. This requires the combination of computationally efficient atomistic methodologies with quantum transport based approaches. Here, we review our recent work on this problem, by presenting selected applications of the PHONON tool to the description of phonon transport in nanostructured materials. The PHONON tool is a module developed as part of the Density-Functional Tight-Binding (DFTB) software platform. We discuss the anisotropic phonon band structure of selected puckered two-dimensional materials, helical and horizontal doping effects in the phonon thermal conductivity of boron nitride-carbon heteronanotubes, phonon filtering in molecular junctions, and a novel computational methodology to investigate time-dependent phonon transport at the atomistic level. These examples illustrate the versatility of our implementation of phonon transport in combination with density functional-based methods to address specific nanoscale functionalities, thus potentially allowing for designing novel thermal devices.
A Self-Adaptive Discrete PSO Algorithm with Heterogeneous Parameter Values for Dynamic TSP
Authors: Strąk Łukasz , Skinderowicz Rafał , Boryczka Urszula , Nowakowski Arkadiusz
Published: July 2019

This paper presents a discrete particle swarm optimization (DPSO) algorithm with heterogeneous (non-uniform) parameter values for solving the dynamic traveling salesman problem (DTSP). The DTSP can be modeled as a sequence of static sub-problems, each of which is an instance of the TSP. In the proposed DPSO algorithm, the information gathered while solving a sub-problem is retained in the form of a pheromone matrix and used by the algorithm while solving the next sub-problem. We present a method for automatically setting the values of the key DPSO parameters (except for the parameters directly related to the computation time and size of a problem).We show that the diversity of parameters values has a positive effect on the quality of the generated results. Furthermore, the population in the proposed algorithm has a higher level of entropy. We compare the performance of the proposed heterogeneous DPSO with two ant colony optimization (ACO) algorithms. The proposed algorithm outperforms the base DPSO and is competitive with the ACO.
Experimental Research on Power Transformer Vibration Distribution under Different Winding Defect Conditions
Authors: Hu Yiwei , Zheng Jing , Huang Hai
Published: July 2019

Vibration analysis is one of the important tools for the transformer winding faults diagnosis. Previous researchers have proved that the vibration spatial distribution of the winding is significantly influenced by the winding defects for the open circuit condition. In order to study the effects of the loading current on the winding vibrations under different mechanical conditions, experiments were designed and operated on a three-phase transformer winding to analyze the winding vibration distribution under different winding defect cases. Further, to study to what extent the mechanical defects and the loading current influence characteristics of the vibration distribution on the tank, the tank vibration distribution under various winding defects and different loading currents were also measured and discussed. In addition, the possibility of detection of transformer winding faults based on tank vibration spatial distribution characteristics was also discussed.
Energy Modeling and Power Measurement for Three-Wheeled Omnidirectional Mobile Robots for Path Planning
Authors: Hou Linfei , Zhang Liang , Kim Jongwon
Published: July 2019

Due to their high mobility, mobile robots (MR) are widely used in intelligent manufacturing. Due to the perfect symmetry of the MR of the three-wheeled moving chassis, it can move quickly in a crowded and complex factory environment. Because it is powered by a lithium battery, in order to improve its energy efficiency, we need to ensure that its power consumption is reduced as much as possible in order to avoid frequent battery replacement. The power consumption of MRs has also become an important research focus for researchers. Therefore, a power consumption modeling of the omnidirectional mobility of the three-wheeled omnidirectional mobile robot (TOMR) is proposed in this paper. When TOMR advances heading at different angles, the speed of each wheel changes dramatically. So, the power consumption of robots will also be greatly changed. In this paper, the energy and power consumption of the robot heading in different directions is analyzed and modeled by formulas. This research can be valuable for path planning and control design.
Emissions Trading System of the European Union: Emission Allowances and EPEX Electricity Prices in Phase III
Authors: Wolff Georg , Feuerriegel Stefan
Published: July 2019

The Emissions Trading System in the European Union was introduced to achieve the climate goal of reducing emissions by around 43% between 1990 and 2030. Accordingly, the costs of emission allowances are part of power generation and, by extension, the price of electricity. Theoretical works thus suggest a positive relationship between the price of emission allowances and electricity. However, this has not been validated empirically for phase III of the Emissions Trading System in the short run as part of the price setting mechanism of electricity producers. Our evidence suggests an opposite effect: According to our empricial results, both European Power Exchange (EPEX) day-ahead and intraday markets are negatively affected during phase III. We further test for a potentially asymmetric influence with the help of quantile regressions. Altogether, the outcome has implications for policy-makers and calls for further attention by academics and policy-makers in the future design of the Emissions Trading System, especially under larger amount of renewables in the electricity system.
Atomistic Simulations of the Defect Chemistry and Self-Diffusion of Li-ion in LiAlO2
Authors: Kuganathan N. , Dark J. , Sgourou E.N. , Panayiotatos Y. , Chroneos A.
Published: July 2019

Lithium aluminate, LiAlO2, is a material that is presently being considered as a tritium breeder material in fusion reactors and coating material in Li-conducting electrodes. Here, we employ atomistic simulation techniques to show that the lowest energy intrinsic defect process is the cation anti-site defect (1.10 eV per defect). This was followed closely by the lithium Frenkel defect (1.44 eV per defect), which ensures a high lithium content in the material and inclination for lithium diffusion from formation of vacancies. Li self-diffusion is three dimensional and exhibits a curved pathway with a migration barrier of 0.53 eV. We considered a variety of dopants with charges +1 (Na, K and Rb), +2 (Mg, Ca, Sr and Ba), +3 (Ga, Fe, Co, Ni, Mn, Sc, Y and La) and +4 (Si, Ge, Ti, Zr and Ce) on the Al site. Dopants Mg2+ and Ge4+ can facilitate the formation of Li interstitials and Li vacancies, respectively. Trivalent dopants Fe3+, Ni3+ and Mn3+ prefer to occupy the Al site with exoergic solution energies meaning that they are candidate dopants for the synthesis of Li (Al, M) O2 (M = Fe, Ni and Mn) compounds.
Energy Use in Residential Buildings: Impact of Building Automation Control Systems on Energy Performance and Flexibility
Authors: Mancini Francesco , Lo Basso Gianluigi , de Santoli Livio
Published: July 2019

This work shows the results of a research activity aimed at characterizing the energy habits of Italian residential users. In detail, by the energy simulation of a buildings sample, the opportunity to implement a demand/response program (DR) has been investigated. Italian residential utilities are poorly electrified and flexible loads are low. The presence of an automation system is an essential requirement for participating in a DR program and, in addition, it can allow important reductions in energy consumption. In this work the characteristics of three control systems have been defined, based on the services incidence on energy consumptions along with a sensitivity analysis on some energy drivers. Using the procedure established by the European Standard EN 15232, the achievable energy and economic savings have been evaluated. Finally, a financial analysis of the investments has been carried out, considering also the incentives provided by the Italian regulations. The payback time is generally not very long: depending on the control system features it varies from 7 to 10 years; moreover, the automation system installation within dwellings is a relatively simple activity, which is characterized by a limited execution times and by an initial expenditure ranging in 1000 € to 4000 €, related to the three sample systems.
Development of Feed-in Tariff for PV in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Ko Wonsuk , Al-Ammar Essam , Almahmeed Mohammad
Published: July 2019

Feed-in tariff (FIT) is the most commonly used strategy worldwide for promoting renewable energy. The FIT strategy mainly consists of three key elements—certain admission to the grid, long-term contracts (10 to 20 years), and reimbursement levels that are founded on the prices of renewable energy production. The most common renewable energy in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) is solar energy, and it can be incorporated into the main grid through a favorable feed-in tariff that will attract investment. This paper aims to review the FIT rates in Germany and the United States, then the design of FIT in these countries to study the results, which helps to determine the most appropriate FIT in the KSA for different regions with regard to investment costs, household electricity consumption, compatibility with the existing grid, period required for return on assets, and long-term benefits. This study will also explain the importance of interest rates for residential investors and the challenge created by the recent tariff increase to 0.18 SAR/kWh. Saudi Arabia has the advantage of being able to use this information to assess the best approach to the economic and environmental impacts of FIT.
Soot Blowing Optimization for Frequency in Economizers to Improve Boiler Performance in Coal-Fired Power Plant
Authors: Shi Yuanhao , Li Qiang , Wen Jie , Cui Fangshu , Pang Xiaoqiong , Jia Jianfang , Zeng Jianchao , Wang Jingcheng
Published: July 2019

Because of the present ineffective method of soot blowing on a boiler’s heating surface in a coal-fired power plant, and to improve the economic benefit of the boiler in the power plant, weigh the improvement of boiler efficiency and steam loss brought by soot blowing, and ensure the safe operation of the unit, an optimization model of soot blowing on the boiler’s heating surface is established. Taking the economizer of the 300 MW coal-fired power plant unit as the research object, the measurement data and basic thermodynamic calculation data of the Distributed Control System (DCS) of the thermal power plant are used to calculate the fouling rate of the heated surface in real time. By analyzing the multi-group fouling rate under the same working conditions, the incremental distribution of the same measuring point at different times is obtained, and the expectation is obtained according to the distribution curve. The state of heating of the heated surface at a time in the future is predicted by the known initial cleaning state. By analyzing the trend of the fouling rate and combining the soot blowing optimization model, a set of soot blowing optimization strategies are proposed. The method proposed in this manuscript can be applied to the guidance of boiler soot blowing operation.
Quantitative Analysis of CO2 Uptake and Mechanical Properties of Air Lime-Based Materials
Authors: Kang Sung-Hoon , Kwon Yang-Hee , Moon Juhyuk
Published: July 2019

In the cement industry, utilization of a sustainable binder that has a lower energy consumption and carbon dioxide (CO2) emission than Portland cement is becoming increasingly important. Air lime is a binder that hardens by absorbing CO2 from the atmosphere, and its raw material, hydrated lime, is manufactured at a lower temperature (around 900 °C) than cement (around 1450 °C). In this study, the amount and rate of CO2 uptake by air lime-based materials are quantitatively evaluated under ambient curing conditions of 20 °C, 60% relative humidity, and 0.04% CO2 concentration. In addition, the effects of the water-to-binder ratio (w/b) and silica fume addition on the material properties of the air lime mortar, such as strength, weight change, carbonation depth, and pore structure, are investigated. Unlike hydraulic materials, such as Portland cement, the air lime mortar did not set and harden under a sealed curing condition, however, once exposed to dry air, the mortar began to harden by absorbing CO2. During the first week, most of the internal water evaporated, thus, the mortar weight was greatly reduced. After that, however, both the weight and the compressive strength consistently increased for at least 180 days due to the carbonation reaction. Based on the 91-day properties, replacing 10% of hydrated lime with silica fume improved the compressive and flexural strengths by 27% and 13% respectively, whereas increasing the w/b from 0.4 to 0.6 decreased both strengths by 29% due to the increased volume of the capillary pores. The addition of silica fume and the change in the w/b had no significant impact on the amount of CO2 uptake, but these two factors were effective in accelerating the CO2 uptake rate before 28 days. Lastly, the air lime-based material was evaluated to be capable of recovering half of the emitted CO2 during the manufacture of hydrated lime within 3 months.
Power Curve-Fitting Control Method with Temperature Compensation and Fast-Response for All-Metal Domestic Induction Heating Systems
Authors: Park Sang Min , Jang Eunsu , Joo Dongmyoung , Lee Byoung Kuk
Published: July 2019

Typical domestic induction cooktops can only heat ferromagnetic pots/vessels. However, to increase the availability and marketability of induction heating (IH) cooktop products, heating techniques for all types of metallic pots (i.e., created from metals such as aluminum, copper, and stainless steel) are required. To satisfy the requirements of induction cooktops, this paper proposes the design of an all-metal domestic IH system that can heat any type of metallic pot while considering the temperature variation of the working-coil. A control algorithm using a power curve-fitting method (CFM) is presented to quickly respond to load parameter variations in the IH. In addition, the CFM control algorithm is established to compensate for the power reference value by reflecting the increase in the working-coil temperature during the heating of the non-ferromagnetic pot. To evaluate the performance of the proposed system, the control algorithm strategy and experimental results based on a 3.2 kW all-metal IH cooktop are presented.
Correction: C. Anuradha; C. Sakthivel; T. Venkatesan; N. Chellammal. Analysis of Non-Isolated Multi-Port Single Ended Primary Inductor Converter for Standalone Applications. Energies 2018, 11, 539
Authors: Anuradha C. , Sakthivel C. , Venkatesan T. , Chellammal N.
Published: July 2019

The authors wish to make the following corrections to their paper [...]
Prolonging Rotation of Chinese Fir to over 25 Years Could Maintain a Better Soil Status in Subtropical China
Authors: Miao Quanxin , Yu Wenjuan , Kang Hongzhang , Wang Jiaojiao
Published: July 2019

Although Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata (Lamb.) Hook) is an important species for wood production in subtropical China, it serious declines in soil nutrients and timber productivity in plantations have been reported, probably caused by successive rotation and inappropriate cutting time. Although the significant effect of stand age on soil properties has been widely recognized, research on soil enzymes and microbial communities is relatively rare. In this study, assuming that short rotation period is one important reason for soil degradation, we measured soil physicochemical properties, microbial community composition, and enzyme activity in 3-, 15-, 25- and 45-year Chinese fir forests in Jiangxi province of China. Soil organic carbon (SOC) content decreased from 3-year to 25-year stands and then increased in 45-year stands. Despite the significant relationship between SOC and the abundance of total phospholipid fatty acids (PLFAs), no notable changes in the abundance of PLFAs were detected with increasing tree ages, except for the abundances of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) which were significantly higher in 25-year stands. However, the ratios of gram-positive to gram-negative bacteria (G+/G−) and fungi to bacteria (F/B) both decreased with increasing stand age. 45-year stands showed the highest activities of both phosphatase and β-glucosidase. Total potassium (TK) content and net N mineralization rate both had significant links with soil microbial community structure. Collectively, our study emphasized that stand age could significantly affect soil physicochemical properties and the microbial community. In general, 25-year stands showed poorer soil status compared to that of 45-year stands. Thus, the cutting age of Chinese fir should be increased to over 25 years to maintain a better soil status.
Complementarity in Phenolic Compounds and the Antioxidant Activities of Phaseolus coccineus L. and P. vulgaris L. Landraces
Authors: Capistrán-Carabarin Arelly , Aquino-Bolaños Elia Nora , García-Díaz Yatzil Denih , Chávez-Servia José Luis , Vera-Guzmán Araceli Minerva , Carrillo-Rodríguez José Cruz
Published: July 2019

Phaseolus vulgaris L. is one of the most consumed and documented legumes in regard to its grain composition, but little is known about P. coccineus L. To evaluate and compare the phenolic compound content and antioxidant activity between landraces of P. coccineus and P. vulgaris, a total of 14 accessions of P. coccineus and P. vulgaris were collected from farmers in Oaxaca, Mexico. Based on reference standards and spectrophotometry, the polyphenol, flavonoid and anthocyanin contents were quantified, and the antioxidant activity was determined by the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) method. The results showed significant differences (p ≤ 0.05) between species and accessions, where P. coccineus and P. vulgaris significantly differed in their contents of polyphenols, flavonoids, and anthocyanins, as well as their antioxidant activity in the seed coat and cotyledons. Higher concentrations were found in the seed coat than in the cotyledons for both species. P. vulgaris had a higher anthocyanin content in the seed coat and a higher flavonoid content in the cotyledons than P. coccineus, but it did not for the other compounds tested. There was high variability among the accessions that were classified into four phenotypic groups: Two of P. coccineus, one of a P. coccineus–vulgaris mixed group, and one group of P. vulgaris.
Variability in Assembly of Degradation Operons for Naphthalene and its derivative, Carbaryl, Suggests Mobilization through Horizontal Gene Transfer
Authors: Phale Prashant S. , Shah Bhavik A. , Malhotra Harshit
Published: July 2019

In the biosphere, the largest biological laboratory, increased anthropogenic activities have led microbes to evolve and adapt to the changes occurring in the environment. Compounds, specifically xenobiotics, released due to such activities persist in nature and undergo bio-magnification in the food web. Some of these compounds act as potent endocrine disrupters, mutagens or carcinogens, and therefore their removal from the environment is essential. Due to their persistence, microbial communities have evolved to metabolize them partially or completely. Diverse biochemical pathways have evolved or been assembled by exchange of genetic material (horizontal gene transfer) through various mobile genetic elements like conjugative and non-conjugative plasmids, transposons, phages and prophages, genomic islands and integrative conjugative elements. These elements provide an unlimited opportunity for genetic material to be exchanged across various genera, thus accelerating the evolution of a new xenobiotic degrading phenotype. In this article, we illustrate examples of the assembly of metabolic pathways involved in the degradation of naphthalene and its derivative, Carbaryl, which are speculated to have evolved or adapted through the above-mentioned processes.
Geomatics Techniques for Cultural Heritage Dissemination in Augmented Reality: Bronzi di Riace Case Study
Authors: Barrile Vincenzo , Fotia Antonino , Candela Gabriele , Bernardo Ernesto
Published: July 2019

The Riace Bronzes are two full-size bronzes cast around the 5th century BC, located at the ‘Museo Archeologico Nazionale della Magna Grecia’ in Reggio Calabria; they truly represent significant sculptural masterpieces of Greek art in the world due to their outstanding manufacture. This paper describes the methodology for the achievement of a 3D model of the two sculptures lead by the Geomatics Laboratory of the Department of Civil, Energetic, Environmental and Material Engineering (DICEAM) of the Mediterranean University of Reggio Calabria. 3D modeling is based on the use of imaging techniques such as digital photogrammetry and computer vision. The achieved results demonstrate the effectiveness of the technique used in the cultural heritage field for the creation of a digital production and replication through 3D printing. Moreover, when considering renewed interest in the context of international museological studies, augmented reality (AR) innovation represents a new method for amplifying visitor numbers into museums despite concerns over returns on investment. Thus, in order to further valorize and disseminate archaeological heritage, we are developing an app for tourism purposes. The created app allows the user, in real time, to obtain additional information on the object of investigation, even allowing them to view the 3D model in AR.
Metabolic Syndrome Among Primary Health Care Nursing Professionals: A Cross-Sectional Population-Based Study
Authors: das Merces Magno Conceição , Santana Amália Ivine Costa , Lua Iracema , da Silva Dandara Almeida Reis , e Silva Douglas de Souza , Gomes Antonio Marcos Tosoli , Miranda Manuela Conceição das Merces , Barbosa Caroline da Silva , Magalhães Lucélia Batista Neves Cunha , Coelho Julita Maria Freitas , Servo Maria Lucia Silva , Portella Daniel Deivson Alves , de Souza Marcio Costa , Lago Sueli Bonfim , Araújo Edilene Maria Queiroz , Marques Sergio Correa , Figueiredo Virgínia Paiva , D’Oliveira Júnior Argemiro
Published: July 2019

This research aims at evaluating prevalence and factors associated with metabolic syndrome (MS) in primary health care (PHC) nursing professionals. A multicenter, population-based and cross-sectional study was conducted in a team-tested sample of 1125 PHC nurses in the state of Bahia, Brazil. Sociodemographic, labor, lifestyle and human biology variables were investigated by mean of anamnesis. MS was evaluated according to the criteria of the first Brazilian Guideline for Metabolic Syndrome, which fully adopts the criteria of the National Cholesterol Education Program’s Adult Treatment Panel III. MS-associated factors were tested by using robust Poisson Regression. The prevalence of MS found was 24.4%; low High Density Lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol was the most prevalent component of the syndrome. In the multivariate analysis, physical inactivity (PR = 1.25, 95% CI = 1.02–1.53), alcohol use (PR = 1.84, 95% CI = 1.22–2.77), acanthosis nigricans (PR = 3.23, 95% CI = 2.65–3.92), burnout syndrome (PR = 1.45, 95% CI = 1.17–1.81), (PR = 1.37, 95% CI = 1.12–1.69), working as a nursing technician (PR = 1.43, 95% CI = 1.14–1.80), were associated to MS. It was found that the prevalence of MS was high, which evidences the need for interventions in the PHC environment, improvement of working conditions, monitoring of worker safety and health, diet programs and physical activity.
The Ankyrin Repeat and Kinase Domain Containing 1 Gene Polymorphism (ANKK1 Taq1A) and Personality Traits in Addicted Subjects
Authors: Grzywacz Anna , Chmielowiec Jolanta , Chmielowiec Krzysztof , Mroczek Bożena , Masiak Jolanta , Suchanecka Aleksandra , Sipak-Szmigiel Olimpia , Szumilas Kamila , Trybek Grzegorz
Published: July 2019

The Taq1A polymorphism located in the ANKK1 gene is one of the most widely studied polymorphisms in regards to the genetics of behavior and addiction. The aim of our study was to analyze this polymorphism with regard to personality characteristics and anxiety measured by means of the Personality Inventory—(NEO Five-Factor Inventory—NEO—FFI) and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) in polysubstance addicted subjects. The study group consisted of 600 male volunteers, including 299 addicted subjects and 301 controls. Psychiatrists recruited members for both groups. Addiction was diagnosed in the case group. In the control group mental illness was excluded. The same psychometric test and genotyping using the real-time PCR (polymerase chain reaction) method was performed for both groups. The results were investigated by means of multivariate analysis of the main effects Multi-factor ANOVA. Significantly higher scores on the scale of STAI state and Neuroticism and Openness traits, as well as lower scores on the scales of Extraversion, Agreeability, and Conscientiousness, were found in the case group subjects, compared to the controls. Differences in frequency of genotypes and alleles of Taq1A polymorphism between the studied groups were not found. Multi-factor ANOVA of addicted subjects and control subjects and the ANKK1 Taq1A variant interaction approximated the statistical significance for the STAI state. The main effects ANOVA of both subjects’ groups were found for the STAI state and trait, the Neuroticism scale, the Extraversion scale, and the Agreeability scale. The ANKK1 Taq1A main effects approximated the statistical significance of the STAI trait. Our study shows not only differences in personality traits between addicted and non-addicted subjects, but also the possible impact of ANKK1 on given traits and on addiction itself.
On the Design of Hyperstable Feedback Controllers for a Class of Parameterized Nonlinearities. Two Application Examples for Controlling Epidemic Models
Authors: De la Sen Manuel
Published: July 2019

This paper studies the hyperstability and the asymptotic hyperstability of a single-input single-output controlled dynamic system whose feed-forward input-output dynamics is nonlinear and eventually time-varying consisting of a linear nominal part, a linear incremental perturbed part and a nonlinear and eventually time-varying one. The nominal linear part is described by a positive real transfer function while the linear perturbation is defined by a stable transfer function. The nonlinear and time-varying disturbance is, in general, unstructured but it is upper-bounded by the combination of three additive absolute terms depending on the input, output and input-output product, respectively. The non-linear time-varying feedback controller is any member belonging to a general class which satisfies an integral Popov’s-type inequality. This problem statement allows the study of the conditions guaranteeing the robust stability properties under a variety of the controllers designed for the controlled system and controller disturbances. In this way, set of robust hyperstability and asymptotic hyperstability of the closed-loop system are given based on the fact that the input-output energy of the feed-forward controlled system is positive and bounded for all time and any given initial conditions and controls satisfying Popov’s inequality. The importance of those hyperstability and asymptotic hyperstability properties rely on the fact that they are related to global closed-loop stability, or respectively, global closed-loop asymptotic stability of the same uncontrolled feed-forward dynamics subject to a great number of controllers under the only condition that that they satisfy such a Popov’s-type inequality. It is well-known the relevance of vaccination and treatment controls for Public Health Management at the levels of prevention and healing. Therefore, two application examples concerning the linearization of known epidemic models and their appropriate vaccination and/or treatment controls on the susceptible and infectious, respectively, are discussed in detail with the main objective in mind of being able of achieving a fast convergence of the state- trajectory solutions to the disease- free equilibrium points under a wide class of control laws under deviations of the equilibrium amounts of such populations.
Children’s and Mothers’ Perspectives of Problematic Eating Behaviours in Young Children and Adolescents: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Czepczor-Bernat Kamila , Brytek-Matera Anna
Published: July 2019

The aim of this study was to (a) compare children’s perspectives of problematic eating behaviours with those of mothers and (b) check if there are differences in the level of these problematic eating behaviours between girls and boys in different age groups (young children: 8–11 years old vs. adolescents: 12–16 years old). The study involved 203 children (50.74% girls) and 203 mothers. The average age of children was 11.06 years (SD = 2.31), and the average BMI was 18.27 kg/m2 (SD = 2.29). Two questionnaires were used to assess children’s perspectives of problematic eating behaviours: The Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire (TFEQ-R13) and the Dutch Eating Behaviour Questionnaire for Children (DEBQ-C). One questionnaire was used to evaluate mothers’ perspectives: The Child Eating Behaviour Questionnaire (CEBQ). The main results in the study indicate the following: (a) the children’s perspective based on the DEBQ-C is the most effective at predicting their BMI (this model of problematic eating behaviours explains 29% of the variance in the child’s BMI); and (b) for almost all problematic eating behaviours, older girls have the highest levels. From the current study, it can be concluded that the type of questionnaire (TFEQ-R13 vs. DEBQ-C vs. CEBQ) and the perspective (child vs. mother) differentiate the results obtained regarding the assessment of children’s problematic eating behaviours and their relation to BMI.
Relevance of Intermittent Rivers and Streams in Agricultural Landscape and Their Impact on Provided Ecosystem Services—A Mediterranean Case Study
Authors: Kaletová Tatiana , Loures Luis , Castanho Rui Alexandre , Aydin Elena , Gama José Telo da , Loures Ana , Truchy Amélie
Published: July 2019

Ecosystem services (ES), as an interconnection of the landscape mosaic pieces, along with temporal rivers (IRES) are an object of research for environmental planners and ecological economists, among other specialists. This study presents (i) a review on the importance of IRES and the services they can provide to agricultural landscapes; (ii) a classification tool to assess the impact of IRES to provide ES by agricultural landscapes; (iii) the application of the proposed classification to the Caia River in order to identify the importance of this intermittent river for its surrounding agricultural landscape. The classification of the ES follows the Common International Classification of Ecosystem (CICES) classification that was adapted for the purposes of this study. Firstly, the list of ES provided by agricultural landscape was elaborated. In the next step, we assessed the potential of IRES to provide ES. Next, IRES impacts to ES within the agricultural landscape were evaluated according to observations from the conducted field monitoring in the study area. This study focuses on the relevance of the intermittent Caia River—a transboundary river in Spain and Portugal—and its ephemeral tributaries in the agricultural landscape. Our study estimates that each hydrological phase of IRES increases the ES provided by the agricultural landscape. However, the dry phase can potentially have negative impacts on several services. The intensification of the agricultural sector is the main provision of the water resource within the Caia River basin, but we were able to identify several other ES that were positively impacted. The present study is in line with the conclusions of other authors who state that IRES constitute a valuable resource which should not be underestimated by society.
Cognitive Impairment Is Independently Associated with Non-Adherence to Antithrombotic Therapy in Older Patients with Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Seong Hyun-Joo , Lee Kyounghoon , Kim Bo-Hwan , Son Youn-Jung
Published: July 2019

Atrial Fibrillation (AF) patients could reduce their risk of stroke by using oral antithrombotic therapy. However, many older people with AF experience cognitive impairment and have limited health literacy, which can lead to non-adherence to antithrombotic treatment. This study aimed to investigate the influence of cognitive impairment and health literacy on non-adherence to antithrombotic therapy. The study performed a secondary analysis of baseline data from a cross-sectional survey of AF patients’ self-care behaviors at a tertiary university hospital in 2018. Data were collected from a total of 277 AF patients aged 65 years and older, through self-reported questionnaires administered by face-to-face interviews. Approximately 50.2% of patients were non-adherent to antithrombotic therapy. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that cognitive impairment independently increased the risk of non-adherence to antithrombotic therapy (odds ratio = 2.628, 95% confidence interval = 1.424–4.848) after adjustment for confounding factors. However, health literacy was not associated with non-adherence to antithrombotic therapy. Cognitive impairment is a significant risk factor for poor adherence to antithrombotic therapy. Thus, health professionals should periodically assess both cognitive function after AF diagnosis and adherence to medication in older patients. Further studies are needed to identify the factors that affect cognitive decline and non-adherence among AF patients.
Comprehensive Environmental Assessment of Potato as Staple Food Policy in China
Authors: Gao Bing , Huang Wei , Xue Xiaobo , Hu Yuanchao , Huang Yunfeng , Wang Lan , Ding Shengping , Cui Shenghui
Published: July 2019

The Chinese government projected 30% of total consumed potatoes as a staple food (PSF) by 2020. We comprehensively assessed the potential impacts of PSF on rice and flour consumption, rice and wheat planting, energy and nutrient supply, irrigation-water, chemical nitrogen (N), phosphorus pentoxide (P2O5) and potassium oxide (K2O) fertilizer inputs and total greenhouse gases (GHG) emission for potatoes, rice and wheat, by assuming different proportions of potato substitutes for rice and flour. The results showed that per capita, 2.9 ± 0.3 and 4.7 ± 0.5 kg more potatoes per year would enter the Chinese staple-food diet, under the government’s target. PSF consumed are expected to reach 5.2 ± 0.7 Tg yr−1, equivalent to substituting potatoes for 4.2 ± 0.8–8.5 ± 0.8 Tg yr−1 wheat and 5.1 ± 0.9–10.1 ± 1.8 Tg yr−1 rice under different scenarios. While this substitution can increase the nutrient supply index by 63% towards nutrient reference values, it may induce no significant effect on staple-food energy supply with lower chemical fertilizer (except for K2O) and irrigation-water inputs and GHG emissions in different substitution scenarios than the business as usual scenario. The reduction in rice and wheat demands lead to wheat in the North China Plain and early rice decrease by 6.1–11.4% and 12.1–24.1%, respectively. The total GHG reduction is equal to 1.1–9.0% of CO2 equivalent associated with CH4 and N2O emitted from the Chinese agroecosystem in 2005. The saved irrigation water for three crops compared to 2012 reaches the total water use of 17.9 ± 4.9–21.8 ± 5.9 million people in 2015. More N fertilizer, irrigation-water, and GHG can be reduced, if the PSF ratio is increased to 50% together with potato yield improves to the optimal level. Our results implied that the PSF policy is worth doing not only because of the healthier diets, but also to mitigate resource inputs and GHG emissions and it also supports agricultural structure adjustments in the areas of irrigated wheat on the North China Plain and early rice across China, designed to increase the adaptability to climate change.