bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physical and Mechanical Properties of Particleboard Made from Palm Tree Prunings
Authors: Ferrández-García Clara-Eugenia , Ferrández-García Antonio , Ferrández-Villena Manuel , Hidalgo-Cordero Juan Fernando , García-Ortuño Teresa , Ferrández-García María-Teresa
Published: December 2018

Palm trees are very fast-growing species. Their management produces annually a large amount of biomass that traditionally has been either disposed of at dumping sites or has been burnt onsite. This paper presents an experimental study to obtain particleboard using this biomass in a low energy process (short pressing time and low pressing temperature), using particles of different sizes from the rachis (midrib) of the three palm species most representative of urban gardening in Spain: canary palm (Phoenix canariensis hort. ex Chabaud), date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) and washingtonia palm (Washingtonia robusta H. Wendl). Their physical and mechanical properties were tested, and the feasibility of their use as a construction material was evaluated. The results showed that the manufactured particleboard had similar performance to conventional wood particleboard and good thermal insulation properties. Boards made with the canary species showed better mechanical performance. The properties of the particleboard depended on the particle size and species. The use of the pruning waste of palm trees to produce durable materials such as particleboard could be beneficial to the environment since it is a method of carbon fixation, helping to decrease atmospheric pollution and reducing the amount of waste that ends in dumping sites.
Stand Characteristics and Soil Properties Affecting the Occurrence of Kunyushan Web-Spinning Sawfly (Cephalcia kunyushanica Xiao) in Japanese Red Pine (Pinus densiflora) Pure Forests in the Kunyushan Mountains, China
Authors: Hu Ruirui , Liang Jun , Xie Xian , Zhang Yingjun , Zhang Xingyao
Published: December 2018

The Kunyushan web-spinning sawfly (Cephalcia kunyushanica) is a major pest in the Japanese red pine (JRP, Pinus densiflora) pure forests in the Kunyushan Mountains of China. In this study, four stand types (ST1–4) were identified in plots of JRP pure forests, based on the pest severity index (PSI; ranging from 0–100). The order of infestation ratio in the four type stands was as follows: ST4 > ST3 > ST2 > ST1. We investigated the correlation of C. kunyushanica occurrence with stand characteristics and soil physicochemical properties in the four stand types. The results showed that all stand characteristics were different among the four stand types. Compared with infested plots, healthy (ST1) plots had a higher soil bulk density, and the differences among the groups were significant. Differences in soil water content, non-capillary porosity, and total porosity were significant among the four ST groups. The average organic matter content, total nitrogen (N), and available N were lower in ST1 plots, whereas total potassium (K) was higher compared with other ST groups. In addition, a redundancy analysis suggested that seven (total N, diameter at breast height (DBH), soil water content, bulk density, available K, zinc ion (Zn2+), and stem density) of 24 environmental variables were significantly correlated with the ordinations of C. kunyushanica occurrence. The results provide theoretical guidance for the ecological control of C. kunyushanica, and are also useful for the management of forests in areas where C. kunyushanica is a major pest and where site and stand conditions are similar.
Qualitative Effects of Hydraulic Conductivity Distribution on Groundwater Flow in Heterogeneous Soils
Authors: Beliaev Alexey , Krichevets Gennady
Published: December 2018

One of the most significant difficulties in subsurface hydrology is the considerable uncertainty in hydraulic conductivity values in the medium. This stimulates qualitative analysis of the effect of conductivity distribution on the solutions or on some components of the solutions of groundwater flow equations. This work is an attempt to develop a rigorous basis for deciding whether the solutions are monotonous with respect to hydraulic conductivity. Such monotonicity is analogous to the well-known comparison principles with respect to variations of initial data or external supplies. Some example problems are given in this paper, including a problem with a free boundary, in which the monotonous dependence of the solution on the conductivity distribution is proved rigorously. Examples are also given, in which monotonicity assumptions, despite being apparently obvious, are proved to be invalid.
Characterization of Bioactive Compounds, Mineral Content and Antioxidant Capacity in Bean Varieties Grown in Semi-Arid Conditions in Zacatecas, Mexico
Authors: Herrera-Hernández Ibeth Marlene , Armendáriz-Fernández Karen Vanesa , Muñoz-Márquez Ezequiel , Sida-Arreola Juan Pedro , Sánchez Esteban
Published: December 2018

This research describes the characterization of bioactive compounds, mineral content, and antioxidant capacity in bean varieties grown in semi-arid conditions in Zacatecas, Mexico. This will provide better progress perspectives for agriculture nationwide and will ensure that bean crops are in the condition to satisfy the population’s nutritional needs by placing it not only as one of the foodstuffs comprising Mexico’s basic diet but also as one of the legumes having greater biofortification potential in Mexico. Eleven bean varieties were collected (flor de mayo, bayo, frijola, patola, navy beans, flor de junio, reata beans, Japanese beans, black beans, canary beans, and pinto Saltillo). The evaluation done included the physical and physico-chemical characteristics, as well as the mineral content, bioactive compounds and antioxidant capacity of these bean varieties. Data gathered were subject to a variance and mean separation analysis. The most remarkable individual results were as follows: Canary beans had the highest iron content (105.29 mg/kg), while bayo beans had the highest zinc concentration (48.18 mg/kg) and reata beans had the highest level of protein (26.88%). The varieties showing the most remarkable results with regard to zinc, iron and protein content and antioxidant capacity were as follows: Flor de junio, flor de mayo, reata beans, navy beans and pinto Saltillo; however, the most remarkable variety in comprehensive terms was flor de junio, which showed a reducing power of 0.20%, an antioxidant capacity of 80.62% inhibition, a protein content of 0.17%, in addition to Ca (0.24%), Fe (90.97 mg/kg), Zn (27.23 mg/kg), fiber (3.22%), energy (353.50 kcal), phenols (94.82 mg gallic acid (GA)/g extract) and flavonoids (1.30 mg mg Cat/g−1 dw). Finally, we came to the conclusion that beans grown in Zacatecas, Mexico, offer a huge benefit to consumers as a result of the mineral, protein, fiber, bioactive compounds, and antioxidant capacity contributions such beans provide. Thus, these beans can be used in a biofortification program using micronutrients to improve their nutritional quality.
Prescriptive Norms and Social Comparisons
Authors: Michaeli Moti , Spiro Daniel
Published: December 2018

This paper analyzes the equilibrium strength of prescriptive norms to contribute to public goods. We consider three methods of establishing what an acceptable contribution to the public good is. Under the first method, the contribution of the bottom contributor is the reference point by which the comparison is being made; under the second, the median contribution is the reference point; and under the third the top contribution is the reference. The first method results in a unique equilibrium and the reference contribution is endogenously low. Each of the latter two methods allows for multiple equilibria differing in contributions made and thus in the strength of the norm to contribute. Comparing the methods we show that the median reference allows for the highest equilibrium contributions and welfare of all methods hence is the preferred method if, among the multiple equilibria, the best one can be selected. However, the bottom-reference is the maximin method, i.e., it provides safe minimal aggregate contribution and welfare that surpass the worst outcome in the other two methods.
Endogenously Emerging Gender Pay Gap in an Experimental Teamwork Setting
Authors: Gürerk Özgür , Irlenbusch Bernd , Rockenbach Bettina
Published: December 2018

We studied gender diversity and performance in endogenously formed teams in a repeated teamwork setting. In our experiment, the participants (N = 168, 84 women and 84 men) chose whether to perform a cooperative task only with members of the own gender or in a mixed-gender team. We found that independent of the choice of team, in the initial period, men contributed significantly more to the team projects than women. Men preferred the successful men-only teams in the subsequent periods, resulting in significantly higher profits for men compared to women. This endogenously emerging “gender pay gap” only closed over time.
Combined Gravimetric-Seismic Moho Model of Tibet
Authors: Baranov Alexey , Bagherbandi Mohammad , Tenzer Robert
Published: December 2018

Substantial progress has been achieved over the last four decades to better understand a deep structure in the Himalayas and Tibet. Nevertheless, the remoteness of this part of the world still considerably limits the use of seismic data. A possible way to overcome this practical restriction partially is to use products from the Earth’s satellite observation systems. Global topographic data are provided by the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM). Global gravitational models have been derived from observables delivered by the gravity-dedicated satellite missions, such as the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) and the Gravity field and steady-state Ocean Circulation Explorer (GOCE). Optimally, the topographic and gravity data should be combined with available results from tomographic surveys to interpret the lithospheric structure, including also a Moho relief. In this study, we use seismic, gravity, and topographic data to estimate the Moho depth under orogenic structures of the Himalayas and Tibet. The combined Moho model is computed based on solving the Vening Meinesz–Moritz (VMM) inverse problem of isostasy, while incorporating seismic data to constrain the gravimetric solution. The result of the combined gravimetric-seismic data analysis exhibits an anticipated more detailed structure of the Moho geometry when compared to the solution obtained merely from seismic data. This is especially evident over regions with sparse seismic data coverage. The newly-determined combined Moho model of Tibet shows a typical contrast between a thick crustal structure of orogenic formations compared to a thinner crust of continental basins. The Moho depth under most of the Himalayas and the Tibetan Plateau is typically within 60–70 km. The maximum Moho deepening of ~76 km occurs to the south of the Bangong-Nujiang suture under the Lhasa terrane. Local maxima of the Moho depth to ~74 km are also found beneath Taksha at the Karakoram fault. This Moho pattern generally agrees with the findings from existing gravimetric and seismic studies, but some inconsistencies are also identified and discussed in this study.
Effects of Acid Mine Drainage on Calcareous Soil Characteristics and Lolium perenne L. Germination
Authors: Dong Yan , Liu Fenwu , Qiao Xingxing , Zhou Lixiang , Bi Wenlong
Published: December 2018

Acid mine drainage (AMD) is a serious environmental problem resulting from extensive sulfide mining activities. There is a lack of more comprehensive and detailed studies on the effect of AMD on calcareous soil characteristics and seed germination. In this study, five calcareous soil samples, collected from Xiaoyi, Taigu, Xiangning, Hejin, and Xixian counties in Shanxi Province, China, were used to investigate the effects of acid AMD on soil characteristics and Lolium perenne L. germination through laboratory culture experiments. The results showed that the increase in the total soil calcium oxide and magnesium oxide (CaO + MgO) contents led to a rise in the amount of Fe2+ in AMD converted into Fe3+, and that major ions (H+, Fe, SO42−) in AMD were trapped in the soil. The total Cao + MgO contents in the soil collected from Hejin and Taigu counties were 14.23% and 6.42%, the pH of AMD-polluted soil decreased to 7.24 and 3.10, and 98.7% and 54.0% of the Fe2+, 99.9% and 58.6% of the total Fe, and 76.0% and 26.4% of the SO42−, respectively, were trapped in the soil when the AMD volume to soil mass ratio was 10 mL/g. The results for the soil from Taigu County showed that when the soil had an AMD volume to soil mass ratio of 10 mL/g, the organic matter, available phosphorus (available P), available potassium (available K), Cr, and Cd contents in soil decreased by 16.2%, 63.0%, 97.1%, 7.8%, and 73.2%, respectively; the total phosphorus (total P) and total potassium (total K) did not significantly change; whereas the available nitrogen (available N) and total nitrogen (total N) increased to 16.1 times and 1.76 times, respectively. Compared to the initial soil collected from Taigu County, the Lolium perenne L. germination rate decreased by 81.1%, and the cumulative amount of Cr in the Lolium perenne L. increased by 7.24 times in the AMD-polluted soil when the AMD volume to soil mass ratio was 6 mL/g. The soil conditions could not support Lolium perenne L. germination when the AMD volume to soil mass ratio was 10 mL/g. The outcomes of this study could have important implication in understanding the hydrological/geochemical-behaviour of major ions of AMD in calcareous soil. The findings also have great significance in predicting plant growth behavior in AMD-polluted calcareous soil.
Spatio-Temporal Change and Pollution Risk of Agricultural Soil Cadmium in a Rapidly Industrializing Area in the Yangtze Delta Region of China
Authors: Xu Xianghua , Qian Jiaying , Xie Enze , Shi Xuezheng , Zhao Yongcun
Published: December 2018

The impacts of rapid industrialization on agricultural soil cadmium (Cd) accumulation and their potential risks have drawn major attention from the scientific community and decision-makers, due to the high toxicity of Cd to animals and humans. A total of 812 topsoil samples (0–20 cm) was collected from the southern parts of Jiangsu Province, China, in 2000 and 2015, respectively. Geostatistical ordinary kriging and conditional sequential Gaussian simulation were used to quantify the changes in spatial distributions and the potential risk of Cd pollution between the two sampling dates. Results showed that across the study area, the mean Cd concentrations increased from 0.110 mg/kg in 2000 to 0.196 mg/kg in 2015, representing an annual average increase of 5.73 μg/kg. Given a confidence level of 95%, areas with significantly-increased Cd covered approximately 12% of the study area. Areas with a potential risk of Cd pollution in 2000 only covered 0.009% of the study area, while this figure increased to 0.75% in 2015. In addition, the locally concentrating trend of soil Cd pollution risk was evident after 15 years. Although multiple factors contributed to this elevated Cd pollution risk, the primary reason can be attributed to the enhanced atmospheric deposition and industrial waste discharge resulting from rapid industrialization, and the quick increase of traffic and transportation associated with rapid urbanization.
Relationships between Physical Activity and Quality of Life in Pregnant Women in the Second and Third Trimester
Authors: Krzepota Justyna , Sadowska Dorota , Biernat Elżbieta
Published: December 2018

Background: The problem of an inadequate level of physical activity (PA) is important in the context of its relationship with the quality of life (QoL) of pregnant women. The aim of this study was to analyze the relationships between PA and QoL among pregnant women. Methods: The study analyzed 346 questionnaires filled in by pregnant women (157 in the second trimester and 189 in the third). The tool used for assessment of PA was the Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire-Polish version (PPAQ-PL). The quality of life (QoL) was assessed by the World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire-short form (WHOQoL-Bref). The results obtained from the PPAQ-PL and WHOQoL-Bref questionnaires for women in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy and intergroup differences were analyzed. Results: There was a significant correlation in the group of women in the second trimester of pregnancy between quality of life in the physical health domain and the intensity and type of physical activity. The women who rated their quality of life higher in this domain declared higher energy expenditures (EE) associated with vigorous activity (R = 0.159, p ≤ 0.05), as well as with occupational activity (R = 0.166; p ≤ 0.05) and sport/exercise activity (R = 0.187; p ≤ 0.05). In women in the third trimester, higher EE related to sport/exercise activity coincided with higher assessments of the overall quality of life (R = 0.149, p ≤ 0.05) and general health (R = 0.170, p ≤ 0.05). In the case of the psychological domain (R = 0.161, p ≤ 0.05) and social relationship domain (R = 0.188; p ≤ 0.05) of QoL, positive correlations occurred with EE related to vigorous activity. In contrast, high assessment of physical health domain coincided with higher EE related to occupational activity (R = 0.174; p ≤ 0.05). Conclusions: Our study makes an important contribution to knowledge concerning the correlations between PA and QoL in pregnancy. The results suggest the need for improvement in prenatal care and promotion of PA programs for pregnant women.
Gender Stratified Analyses of the Association of Skinfold Thickness with Hypertension: A Cross-Sectional Study in General Northeastern Chinese Residents
Authors: Liu Yuyan , Li Yongfang , He Jing , Ma Ping , Yu Luyang , Zheng Quanmei , Sun Guifan
Published: December 2018

The association of hypertension with skinfold thickness (ST) in adults is not clear. Our study was aimed at finding out the association of hypertension with ST in different gender and obesity categories. This is a cross-sectional study based on 2336 Chinese residents (767 men). Both subscapular skinfold thickness (SST) and tricep skinfold thickness (TST) were examined. We estimated the association of hypertension with per SD increase of SST and TST using multivariable logistic regression analyses in men and women. Six subgroups were stratified using cutoff points of body mass index (BMI) and ST: larger and smaller ST in normal weight (BMI < 24 kg/m2), overweight (24 kg/m2 ≤ BMI < 28 kg/m2) and obesity (BMI ≥ 28 kg/m2), respectively. The association of hypertension with ST was only shown in women after adjustment for other risk factors. Among women of the normal weight subgroup, higher prevalence of hypertension was shown in those with larger ST. No difference of the prevalence of hypertension was found between women with larger ST in the normal weight subgroup and those with smaller ST in overweight or obesity subgroups. Our study suggested that even for people with normal weight, it was necessary to monitor the subcutaneous fat using ST for preventing hypertension at least in general Chinese women.
Is Farm Milk a Risk Factor for Sarcoidosis? The Role of Farm Residence, Unpiped Water and Untreated Milk in Sarcoidosis: A Case-Referent Study in Alberta, Canada
Authors: Schouten Janine , Beach Jeremy , Burstyn Igor , Senthilselvan Ambikaipakan , Cherry Nicola
Published: December 2018

Objective: Sarcoidosis is thought to be an aberrant immune response to environmental agents, with rural living as a risk factor. We aimed to determine if farm living, consumption of farm (untreated) milk, or untreated water increased the risk of sarcoidosis. Methods: In a case-referent design, patients aged 18–60 with pulmonary sarcoidosis together with referents with other chronic respiratory disease, diagnosed 1999–2005 in Alberta, Canada, were approached through their specialist physician. Participants completed a telephone questionnaire about farm living, use of untreated water and farm milk for each residence from birth to diagnosis. Exposures at birth, up to age five, and up to diagnosis were calculated. Results: The study included 615 cases and 1334 referents. The consumption of farm milk, but not of unpiped water or farm living overall, appeared to be consistently associated with sarcoidosis in a fully adjusted analysis. The association was present for farm milk used in the residence of birth (odds ratios (OR): 1.59, 95% confidence intervals (CI): 1.08–2.34) and persisted for those drinking farm milk to age five years (OR: 1.52, 95% CI: 1.04–2.21), and for those drinking farm milk for >16 years to diagnosis (OR: 1.50, 95% CI: 1.04–2.15). The association with sarcoidosis was stronger when the referent was in the subgroup diagnosed with asthma but was present also with referents with other chronic respiratory disease. Among those whose family used farm milk at birth and to age 5 years, continued use of farm milk into adulthood increased the risk of sarcoidosis. Conclusion: We observed evidence of positive association between consumption of farm milk and sarcoidosis.
Tuberculosis Mortality by Occupation in South Africa, 2011–2015
Authors: Kootbodien Tahira , Wilson Kerry , Tlotleng Nonhlanhla , Ntlebi Vusi , Made Felix , Rees David , Naicker Nisha
Published: December 2018

Work-related tuberculosis (TB) remains a public health concern in low- and middle-income countries. The use of vital registration data for monitoring TB deaths by occupation has been unexplored in South Africa. Using underlying cause of death and occupation data for 2011 to 2015 from Statistics South Africa, age-standardised mortality rates (ASMRs) were calculated for all persons of working age (15 to 64 years) by the direct method using the World Health Organization (WHO) standard population. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to calculate mortality odds ratios (MORs) for occupation groups, adjusting for age, sex, year of death, province of death, and smoking status. Of the 221,058 deaths recorded with occupation data, 13% were due to TB. ASMR for TB mortality decreased from 165.9 to 88.8 per 100,000 population from 2011 to 2015. An increased risk of death by TB was observed among elementary occupations: agricultural labourers (MORadj = 3.58, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 2.96–4.32), cleaners (MORadj = 3.44, 95% CI 2.91–4.09), and refuse workers (MORadj = 3.41, 95% CI 2.88–4.03); among workers exposed to silica dust (MORadj = 3.37, 95% CI 2.83–4.02); and among skilled agricultural workers (MORadj = 3.31, 95% CI 2.65–4.19). High-risk TB occupations can be identified from mortality data. Therefore, TB prevention and treatment policies should be prioritised in these occupations.
Anti-Inflammatory Effect of IL-37-Producing T-Cell Population in DSS-Induced Chronic Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Mice
Authors: Chen Zhangbo , Wang Shijun , Li Lingyun , Huang Zhong , Ma Ke
Published: December 2018

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory disease that is thought to arise in part from abnormal adaptive immune responses against intestinal microbiota. T lymphocytes play significant roles in triggering mucosal inflammation and/or maintaining gut immune homeostasis. It has been demonstrated that IL-37 expresses in a variety of cells and exerts a protective function involved in both innate immunity and adaptive immunity. In the present study, a population of IL-37-producing T-cells was detected in the spleen and mesenteric lymph nodes (MLNs) in IL-37+/+ mice after dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) induction. Adoptive transfer of the T-cells from the spleen of IL-37+/+ mice following DSS treatment partly recovered the body weight, improved the disease activity index (DAI) and macroscopic damage score, and attenuated the intestinal inflammation. In addition, colon shortening, an indirect marker of inflammation, was decreased, consistent with the decreased IFN-γ level and the increased IL-10 level in the colonic tissue. Collectively, our data uncovered a subset of T-lymphocytes expressing IL-37, which represents a potent regulation of immunity and serves as the protective role in chronic IBD.
A769662 Inhibits Insulin-Stimulated Akt Activation in Human Macrovascular Endothelial Cells Independent of AMP-Activated Protein Kinase
Authors: Strembitska Anastasiya , Mancini Sarah J. , Gamwell Jonathan M. , Palmer Timothy M. , Baillie George S. , Salt Ian P.
Published: December 2018

Protein kinase B (Akt) is a key enzyme in the insulin signalling cascade, required for insulin-stimulated NO production in endothelial cells (ECs). Previous studies have suggested that AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation stimulates NO synthesis and enhances insulin-stimulated Akt activation, yet these studies have largely used indirect activators of AMPK. The effects of the allosteric AMPK activator A769662 on insulin signalling and endothelial function was therefore examined in cultured human macrovascular ECs. Surprisingly, A769662 inhibited insulin-stimulated NO synthesis and Akt phosphorylation in human ECs from umbilical veins (HUVECs) and aorta (HAECs). In contrast, the AMPK activators compound 991 and AICAR had no substantial inhibitory effect on insulin-stimulated Akt phosphorylation in ECs. Inhibition of AMPK with SBI-0206965 had no effect on the inhibition of insulin-stimulated Akt phosphorylation by A769662, suggesting the inhibitory action of A769662 is AMPK-independent. A769662 decreased IGF1-stimulated Akt phosphorylation yet had no effect on VEGF-stimulated Akt signalling in HUVECs, suggesting that A769662 attenuates early insulin/IGF1 signalling. The effects of A769662 on insulin-stimulated Akt phosphorylation were specific to human ECs, as no effect was observed in the human cancer cell lines HepG2 or HeLa, as well as in mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs). A769662 inhibited insulin-stimulated Erk1/2 phosphorylation in HAECs and MEFs, an effect that was independent of AMPK in MEFs. Therefore, despite being a potent AMPK activator, A769662 has effects unlikely to be mediated by AMPK in human macrovascular ECs that reduce insulin sensitivity and eNOS activation.
Heterologous Expression of the Grapevine JAZ7 Gene in Arabidopsis Confers Enhanced Resistance to Powdery Mildew but Not to Botrytis cinerea
Authors: Hanif Muhammad , Rahman Mati Ur , Gao Min , Yang Jinhua , Ahmad Bilal , Yan Xiaoxiao , Wang Xiping
Published: December 2018

Jasmonate ZIM-domain (JAZ) family proteins comprise a class of transcriptional repressors that silence jasmonate-inducible genes. Although a considerable amount of research has been carried out on this gene family, there is still very little information available on the role of specific JAZ gene members in multiple pathogen resistance, especially in non-model species. In this study, we investigated the potential resistance function of the VqJAZ7 gene from a disease-resistant wild grapevine, Vitis quinquangularis cv. “Shang-24”, through heterologous expression in Arabidopsis thaliana. VqJAZ7-expressing transgenic Arabidopsis were challenged with three pathogens: the biotrophic fungus Golovinomyces cichoracearum, necrotrophic fungus Botrytis cinerea, and semi-biotrophic bacteria Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato DC3000. We found that plants expressing VqJAZ7 showed greatly reduced disease symptoms for G. cichoracearum, but not for B. cinerea or P. syringae. In response to G cichoracearum infection, VqJAZ7-expressing transgenic lines exhibited markedly higher levels of cell death, superoxide anions (O2¯, and H2O2 accumulation, relative to nontransgenic control plants. Moreover, we also tested the relative expression of defense-related genes to comprehend the possible induced pathways. Taken together, our results suggest that VqJAZ7 in grapevine participates in molecular pathways of resistance to G. cichoracearum, but not to B. cinerea or P. syringae.
Maternal Cognitive Impairment Associated with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus—A Review of Potential Contributing Mechanisms
Authors: John Cini Mathew , Mohamed Yusof Nur Intan Saidaah , Abdul Aziz Siti Hajar , Mohd Fauzi Fazlin
Published: December 2018

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) carries many risks, where high blood pressure, preeclampsia and future type II diabetes are widely acknowledged, but less focus has been placed on its effect on cognitive function. Although the multifactorial pathogenesis of maternal cognitive impairment is not completely understood, it shares several features with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). In this review, we discuss some key pathophysiologies of GDM that may lead to cognitive impairment, specifically hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation. We explain how these incidents: (i) impair the insulin-signaling pathway and/or (ii) lead to cognitive impairment through hyperphosphorylation of τ protein, overexpression of amyloid-β and/or activation of microglia. The aforementioned pathologies impair the insulin-signaling pathway primarily through serine phosphorylation of insulin receptor substances (IRS). This then leads to the inactivation of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) signaling cascade, which is responsible for maintaining brain homeostasis and normal cognitive functioning. PI3K/AKT is crucial in maintaining normal cognitive function through the inactivation of glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSκ3β), which hyperphosphorylates τ protein and releases pro-inflammatory cytokines that are neurotoxic. Several biomarkers were also highlighted as potential biomarkers of GDM-related cognitive impairment such as AGEs, serine-phosphorylated IRS-1 and inflammatory markers such as tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), leptin, interleukin 1β (IL-1β), and IL-6. Although GDM is a transient disease, its complications may be long-term, and hence increased mechanistic knowledge of the molecular changes contributing to cognitive impairment may provide important clues for interventional strategies.
The Effects of a High-Protein Diet on Bone Mineral Density in Exercise-Trained Women: A 1-Year Investigation
Authors: Antonio Jose , Ellerbroek Anya , Carson Cassandra
Published: December 2018

The effects of long-term high-protein consumption (i.e., >2.2 g/kg/day) are unclear as it relates to bone mineral content. Thus, the primary endpoint of this investigation was to determine if consuming a high-protein diet for one year affected various parameters of body composition in exercise-trained women. This investigation is a follow-up to a prior 6-month study. Subjects were instructed to consume a high-protein diet (>2.2 g/kg/day) for one year. Body composition was assessed via dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Subjects were instructed to keep a food diary (i.e., log their food ~three days per week for a year) via the mobile app MyFitnessPal®. Furthermore, a subset of subjects had their blood analyzed (i.e., basic metabolic panel). Subjects consumed a high-protein diet for one year (mean ± SD: 2.3 ± 1.1 grams per kilogram body weight daily [g/kg/day]). There were no significant changes for any measure of body composition over the course of the year (i.e., body weight, fat mass, lean body mass, percent fat, whole body bone mineral content, whole body T-score, whole body bone mineral density, lumbar bone mineral content, lumbar bone mineral density and lumbar T-score). In addition, we found no adverse effects on kidney function. Based on this 1-year within-subjects investigation, it is evident that a diet high in protein has no adverse effects on bone mineral density or kidney function.
Determination of Cell Abundances and Paralytic Shellfish Toxins in Cultures of the Dinoflagellate Gymnodinium catenatum by Fourier Transform Near Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Lopes Marta Belchior , Amorim Ana , Calado Cecília , Reis Costa Pedro
Published: December 2018

Harmful algal blooms are responsible worldwide for the contamination of fishery resources, with potential impacts on seafood safety and public health. Most coastal countries rely on an intense monitoring program for the surveillance of toxic algae occurrence and shellfish contamination. The present study investigates the use of near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy for the rapid in situ determination of cell concentrations of toxic algae in seawater. The paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP) toxin-producing dinoflagellate Gymnodinium catenatum was selected for this study. The spectral modeling by partial least squares (PLS) regression based on the recorded NIR spectra enabled the building of highly accurate (R2 = 0.92) models for cell abundance. The models also provided a good correlation between toxins measured by the conventional methods (high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection (HPLC-FLD)) and the levels predicted by the PLS/NIR models. This study represents the first necessary step in investigating the potential of application of NIR spectroscopy for algae bloom detection and alerting.
Antifungal Resistance: Specific Focus on Multidrug Resistance in Candida auris and Secondary Azole Resistance in Aspergillus fumigatus
Authors: Arikan-Akdagli Sevtap , Ghannoum Mahmoud , Meis Jacques F.
Published: December 2018

Antifungal resistance is a topic of concern, particularly for specific fungal species and drugs. Among these are the multidrug-resistant Candida auris and azole-resistant Aspergillus fumigatus. While the knowledge on molecular mechanisms of resistance is now accumulating, further data are also available for the clinical implications and the extent of correlation of in vitro resistance to clinical outcomes. This review article summarizes the epidemiology of C. auris infections, animal models focusing on the activity of novel antifungal compounds in C. auris infections, virulence factors, and the mechanisms of antifungal resistance for this multi-resistant Candida species. Regarding A. fumigatus, the significance of azoles in the treatment of A. fumigatus infections, reference methods available for the detection of resistance in vitro, molecular mechanisms of secondary azole resistance, routes of acquisition, and clinical implications of in vitro resistance are covered to provide guidance for the current status of azole resistance in A. fumigatus.
People and Post-Mining Environments: PPGIS Mapping of Landscape Values, Knowledge Needs, and Future Perspectives in Northern Finland
Authors: Kivinen Sonja , Vartiainen Kaarina , Kumpula Timo
Published: December 2018

Mining can have a notable environmental and social footprint both during the production phase and after the mine closure. We examined local stakeholders’ viewpoints on two post-mining areas in northern Finland, Hannukainen and Rautuvaara, using a public participation geographic information system (PPGIS) approach. Spatially explicit data on local residents’ and visitors’ values, knowledge needs, and future perspectives on mining landscapes were collected with an online map-based survey tool (Harava). The results show that post-mining sites were generally considered unpleasant places. A majority of respondents were of the opinion that areas would need better reclamation and landscaping measures. The landscape surrounding the post-mining sites contained a wide diversity of pleasant places with high nature and recreational value. Respondents addressed various environmental concerns related to the impacts of former mining activities on the quality of ground water and surface water, potential soil contamination, and the safety of natural products. Opinions on the planned mine reopening were strongly divided among the respondents. One of the key questions was whether a large open-pit mine and nature-based tourism can coexist in the same region. Our results highlight that “the shadow of the mine”—observed environmental impacts, uncertainties related to the spatial extent, duration, and magnitude of impacts, and knowledge gaps—can affect local stakeholders’ land use far outside the mining sites and long after the mine closure. Identifying and mapping stakeholder values, opinions, and knowledge needs could significantly improve post-mining land use planning and mitigate the loss of multifunctional landscapes.
Investigation of the Rupture Surface of the Titanium Alloy Using Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Konovalenko Ihor , Maruschak Pavlo , Prentkovskis Olegas , Junevičius Raimundas
Published: December 2018

The research of fractographic images of metals is an important method that allows obtaining valuable information about the physical and mechanical properties of a metallic specimen, determining the causes of its fracture, and developing models for optimizing its properties. One of the main lines of research in this case is studying the characteristics of the dimples of viscous detachment, which are formed on the metal surface in the process of its fracture. This paper proposes a method for detecting dimples of viscous detachment on a fractographic image, which is based on using a convolutional neural network. Compared to classical image processing algorithms, the use of the neural network significantly reduces the number of parameters to be adjusted manually. In addition, when being trained, the neural network can reveal a lot more characteristic features that affect the quality of recognition in a positive way. This makes the method more versatile and accurate. We investigated 17 models of convolutional neural networks with different structures and selected the optimal variant in terms of accuracy and speed. The proposed neural network classifies image pixels into two categories: “dimple” and “edge”. A transition from a probabilistic result at the output of the neural network to an unambiguously clear classification is proposed. The results obtained using the neural network were compared to the results obtained using a previously developed algorithm based on a set of filters. It has been found that the results are very similar (more than 90% similarity), but the neural network reveals the necessary features more accurately than the previous method.
Bifunction-Integrated Dielectric Nanolayers of Fluoropolymers with Electrowetting Effects
Authors: Wu Hao , Li Hao , Umar Ahmad , Wang Yao , Zhou Guofu
Published: December 2018

Fluoropolymers play an essential role in electrowetting (EW) systems. However, no fluoropolymer possesses the desirable properties of both hydrophobicity and dielectric strength. In this study, for the first time, we report the integration of two representative fluoropolymers—namely, Teflon AF (AF 1600X) and Cytop (Cytop 809A)—into one bifunctionalized dielectric nanolayer. Within this nanolayer, both the superior hydrophobicity of Teflon AF and the excellent dielectric strength of Cytop were able to be retained. Each composed of a 0.5 μm Cytop bottom layer and a 0.06 μm Teflon AF top layer, the fabricated composite nanolayers showed a high withstand voltage of ~70 V (a dielectric strength of 125 V/μm) and a high water contact angle of ~120°. The electrowetting and dielectric properties of various film thicknesses were also systemically investigated. Through detailed study, it was observed that the thicker Teflon AF top layers produced no obvious enhancement of the Cytop/Teflon AF stack.
Edge Irregular Reflexive Labeling for Disjoint Union of Generalized Petersen Graph
Authors: Guirao Juan L. G. , Ahmad Sarfraz , Siddiqui Muhammad Kamran , Ibrahim Muhammad
Published: December 2018

A graph labeling is the task of integers, generally spoken to by whole numbers, to the edges or vertices, or both of a graph. Formally, given a graph G = ( V , E ) a vertex labeling is a capacity from V to an arrangement of integers. A graph with such a capacity characterized is known as a vertex-labeled graph. Similarly, an edge labeling is an element of E to an arrangement of labels. For this situation, the graph is called an edge-labeled graph. We examine an edge irregular reflexive k-labeling for the disjoint association of the cycle related graphs and decide the correct estimation of the reflexive edge strength for the disjoint association of s isomorphic duplicates of the cycle related graphs to be specific Generalized Peterson graphs.
Effects of Heat Treatment on Morphology, Texture, and Mechanical Properties of a MnSiAl Multiphase Steel with TRIP Behavior
Authors: Salinas Alvaro , Artigas Alfredo , Perez-Ipiña Juan , Castro-Cerda Felipe , Garza-Montes-de-Oca Nelson , Colás Rafael , Petrov Roumen , Monsalve Alberto
Published: December 2018

The effect that the microstructure exerts on the Transformation-Induced Plasticity (TRIP) phenomenon and on the mechanical properties in a multiphase steel was studied. Samples of an initially cold-rolled ferrite–pearlite steel underwent different intercritical annealing treatments at 750 °C until equal fractions of austenite/ferrite were reached; the intercritical treatment was followed by isothermal bainitic treatments before cooling the samples to room temperature. Samples in the first treatment were heated directly to the intercritical temperature, whereas other samples were heated to either 900 °C or 1100 °C to obtain a fully homogenized, single-phase austenitic microstructure before performing the intercritical treatment. The high-temperature homogenization of austenite resulted in a decrease in its stability, so a considerable austenite fraction transformed into martensite by cooling to room temperature after the bainitic heat treatment. Most of the retained austenite transformed during the tensile tests, and, consequently, the previously homogenized steels showed the highest Ultimate Tensile Strength (UTS). In turn, the steel with a ferritic–pearlitic initial microstructure exhibited higher ductility than the other steels and texture components that favor forming processes.
Characteristics and Formation Mechanism of Inclusions in 304L Stainless Steel during the VOD Refining Process
Authors: Chen Xingrun , Cheng Guoguang , Li Jingyu , Hou Yuyang , Pan Jixiang , Ruan Qiang
Published: December 2018

The formation and characteristics of non-metallic inclusions in 304L stainless steel during the vacuum oxygen decarburization (VOD) refining process were investigated using industrial experiments and thermodynamic calculations. The compositional characteristics indicated that two types of inclusions with different sizes (from 1 μm to 30 μm) existed in 304L stainless steel during the VOD refining process, i.e., CaO-SiO2-Al2O3-MgO external inclusions, and CaO-SiO2-Al2O3-MgO-MnO endogenous inclusions. The calculation results obtained using the FactSage 7.1 software confirmed that the inclusions that were larger than 5 μm were mostly CaO-SiO2-Al2O3-MgO; the similarity in composition to the slag indicated that these inclusions originated from the slag entrapment. The CaO-SiO2-Al2O3-MgO-MnO inclusions that were smaller than 5 μm originated mainly from the oxidation reaction with Ca, Al, Mg, Si, and Mn. The changes in the inclusion composition resulting from changes in the Ca, Al, and O contents, and the temperature during the VOD refining process was larger for the smaller inclusions. Generating mechanisms for the CaO-SiO2-Al2O3-MgO-MnO inclusions in the 304L stainless steel were proposed.
Gold Extraction from Cyanidation Tailing Using Microwave Chlorination Roasting Method
Authors: Zhu Fei , Zhang Libo , Li Haoyu , Yin Shaohua , Koppala Sivasankar , Yang Kun , Li Shiwei
Published: December 2018

At present, gold mines are increasingly scarce in the world. The yield of cyanidation tailing (CT) of refractory gold ores with a grade of 10 g/T is huge; however, the effective capitalization of the cyanidation tailing is a significant problem in the gold industry. In this work, a new treatment method, a microwave-roasting process developed. The effect of roasting temperature, calcium chloride concentration, holding time and mineral size on the recovery of Au researched under conventional and microwave conditions. It found that, under the same processing conditions, the Au recovery in the microwave field is much higher than that of conventional conditions. The preliminary reinforcing role of the microwave discussed in the recovery of gold. This might be because of the microwave absorption ability of CaCl2 is much better, heated quickly and the reactions intensified among CaCl2, O2, and H2O. As a result, the extraction of gold in CT drastically increased in the microwave field, and the microwave roasting technology shows the characteristics of environmental protection in terms of low energy consumption and high efficiency.
Variability Predictions for the Next Technology Generations of n-type SixGe1−x Nanowire MOSFETs
Authors: Lee Jaehyun , Badami Oves , Carrillo-Nuñez Hamilton , Berrada Salim , Medina-Bailon Cristina , Dutta Tapas , Adamu-Lema Fikru , Georgiev Vihar P. , Asenov Asen
Published: December 2018

Using a state-of-the-art quantum transport simulator based on the effective mass approximation, we have thoroughly studied the impact of variability on Si x Ge 1 − x channel gate-all-around nanowire metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors (NWFETs) associated with random discrete dopants, line edge roughness, and metal gate granularity. Performance predictions of NWFETs with different cross-sectional shapes such as square, circle, and ellipse are also investigated. For each NWFETs, the effective masses have carefully been extracted from s p 3 d 5 s ∗ tight-binding band structures. In total, we have generated 7200 transistor samples and performed approximately 10,000 quantum transport simulations. Our statistical analysis reveals that metal gate granularity is dominant among the variability sources considered in this work. Assuming the parameters of the variability sources are the same, we have found that there is no significant difference of variability between SiGe and Si channel NWFETs.
The Effect of Encapsulation Geometry on the Performance of Stretchable Interconnects
Authors: Mosallaei Mahmoud , Jokinen Jarno , Kanerva Mikko , Mäntysalo Matti
Published: December 2018

The stretchability of electronic devices is typically obtained by tailoring the stretchable interconnects that link the functional units together. The durability of the interconnects against environmental conditions, such as deformation and chemicals, is therefore important to take into account. Different approaches, including encapsulation, are commonly used to improve the endurance of stretchable interconnects. In this paper, the geometry of encapsulation layer is initially investigated using finite element analysis. Then, the stretchable interconnects with a narrow-to-wide layout are screen-printed using silver flake ink as a conductor on a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) substrate. Printed ultraviolet (UV)-curable screen-printed dielectric ink and heat-laminated TPU film are used for the encapsulation of the samples. The electromechanical tests reveal a noticeable improvement in performance of encapsulated samples compared to non-protected counterparts in the case of TPU encapsulation. The improvement is even greater with partial coverage of the encapsulation layer. A device with a modified encapsulation layer can survive for 10,000 repetitive cycles at 20% strain, while maintaining the electrical and mechanical performance.