bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Geographical Origin Discrimination of Monofloral Honeys by Direct Analysis in Real Time Ionization-High Resolution Mass Spectrometry (DART-HRMS)
Authors: Lippolis Vincenzo , De Angelis Elisabetta , Fiorino Giuseppina Maria , Di Gioia Annalisa , Arlorio Marco , Logrieco Antonio Francesco , Monaci Linda
Published: September 2020

An untargeted method using direct analysis in real time and high resolution mass spectrometry (DART-HRMS) combined to multivariate statistical analysis was developed for the discrimination of two monofloral (chestnut and acacia) honeys for their geographical origins—i.e., Italy and Portugal for chestnut honey and Italy and China for acacia honey. Principal Component Analysis, used as an unsupervised approach, showed samples of clusterization for chestnut honey samples, while overlapping regions were observed for acacia honeys. Three supervised statistical approaches, such as Principal Components—Linear Discriminant Analysis, Partial Least Squares—Discriminant Analysis and k-nearest neighbors, were tested on the dataset gathered and relevant performances were compared. All tested statistical approaches provided comparable prediction abilities in cross-validation and external validation with mean values falling between 89.2–98.4% for chestnut and between 85.8–95.0% for acacia honey. The results obtained herein indicate the feasibility of the DART-HRMS approach in combination with chemometrics for the rapid authentication of honey’s geographical origin.
Screening and Characterization of Phenolic Compounds and Their Antioxidant Capacity in Different Fruit Peels
Authors: Suleria Hafiz A. R. , Barrow Colin J. , Dunshea Frank R.
Published: September 2020

Fruit peels have a diverse range of phytochemicals including carotenoids, vitamins, dietary fibres, and phenolic compounds, some with remarkable antioxidant properties. Nevertheless, the comprehensive screening and characterization of the complex array of phenolic compounds in different fruit peels is limited. This study aimed to determine the polyphenol content and their antioxidant potential in twenty different fruit peel samples in an ethanolic extraction, including their comprehensive characterization and quantification using the LC-MS/MS and HPLC. The obtained results showed that the mango peel exhibited the highest phenolic content for TPC (27.51 ± 0.63 mg GAE/g) and TFC (1.75 ± 0.08 mg QE/g), while the TTC (9.01 ± 0.20 mg CE/g) was slightly higher in the avocado peel than mango peel (8.99 ± 0.13 mg CE/g). In terms of antioxidant potential, the grapefruit peel had the highest radical scavenging capacities for the DPPH (9.17 ± 0.19 mg AAE/g), ABTS (10.79 ± 0.56 mg AAE/g), ferric reducing capacity in FRAP (9.22 ± 0.25 mg AA/g), and total antioxidant capacity, TAC (8.77 ± 0.34 mg AAE/g) compared to other fruit peel samples. The application of LC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS tentatively identified and characterized a total of 176 phenolics, including phenolic acids (49), flavonoids (86), lignans (11), stilbene (5) and other polyphenols (25) in all twenty peel samples. From HPLC-PDA quantification, the mango peel sample showed significantly higher phenolic content, particularly for phenolic acids (gallic acid, 14.5 ± 0.4 mg/g) and flavonoids (quercetin, 11.9 ± 0.4 mg/g), as compared to other fruit peel samples. These results highlight the importance of fruit peels as a potential source of polyphenols. This study provides supportive information for the utilization of different phenolic rich fruit peels as ingredients in food, feed, and nutraceutical products.
Using Cross-Cultural Consumer Liking Data to Explore Acceptability of PGI Bread—Waterford Blaa
Authors: Kelly Rachel , Hollowood Tracey , Hasted Anne , Pagidas Nikos , Markey Anne , Scannell Amalia G. M.
Published: September 2020

Waterford Blaa is one of only four Irish food products granted protected geographical (PGI) status by the European Commission. This study aimed to determine whether cultural background/product familiarity, gender, and/or age impacted consumer liking of three Waterford Blaa products and explored product acceptability between product-familiar and product-unfamiliar consumer cohorts in Ireland and the UK, respectively. Familiarity with Blaa impacted consumer liking, particularly with respect to characteristic flour dusting, which is a unique property of Waterford Blaa. UK consumers felt that all Blaas had too much flour. Blaa A had the heaviest amount of flouring and was the least preferred for UK consumers, who liked it significantly less than Irish consumers (p < 0.05). Flavour was also important for UK consumers. Blaa C delivered a stronger oven baked odour/flavour compared to Blaa A and was the most preferred by UK consumers. Irish consumer liking was more influenced by the harder texture of Blaa B, which was their least preferred product. Age and gender did not impact liking for Blaas within Irish consumers, but gender differences were observed among UK consumers, males liking the appearance significantly more than females. This is the first paper comparing Waterford Blaa liking of naïve UK consumers with Irish consumers familiar with the product.
The Midgut Microbiota of Colombian Aedes aegypti Populations with Different Levels of Resistance to the Insecticide Lambda-cyhalothrin
Authors: Arévalo-Cortés Andrea , Mejia-Jaramillo Ana M. , Granada Yurany , Coatsworth Heather , Lowenberger Carl , Triana-Chavez Omar
Published: September 2020

Insecticide resistance in Aedes aegypti populations is a problem that hinders vector control and dengue prevention programs. In this study, we determined the susceptibility of Ae. aegypti populations from six Colombian regions to the pyrethroid lambda-cyhalothrin and evaluated the presence of the V1016I mutation in the sodium channel gene, which has been broadly involved in the resistance to this insecticide. The diversity of the gut microbiota of these mosquito populations was also analyzed. Only mosquitoes from Bello were susceptible to lambda-cyhalothrin and presented a lower allelic frequency of the V1016I mutation. Remarkably, there was not an important change in allelic frequencies among populations with different resistance ratios, indicating that other factors or mechanisms contributed to the resistant phenotype. Treatment of mosquitoes with antibiotics led us to hypothesize that the intestinal microbiota could contribute to the resistance to lambda-cyhalothrin. Beta diversity analysis showed significant differences in the species of bacteria present between susceptible and resistant populations. We identified 14 OTUs of bacteria that were unique in resistant mosquitoes. We propose that kdr mutations are important in the development of resistance to lambda-cyhalothrin at low insecticide concentrations but insect symbionts could play an essential role in the metabolization of pyrethroid insecticides at higher concentrations, contributing to the resistant phenotype in Ae. aegypti.
Spatial Spectral Band Selection for Enhanced Hyperspectral Remote Sensing Classification Applications
Authors: Torres Ruben Moya , Yuen Peter W.T. , Yuan Changfeng , Piper Johathan , McCullough Chris , Godfree Peter
Published: September 2020

Despite the numerous band selection (BS) algorithms reported in the field, most if not all have exhibited maximal accuracy when more spectral bands are utilized for classification. This apparently disagrees with the theoretical model of the ‘curse of dimensionality’ phenomenon, without apparent explanations. If it were true, then BS would be deemed as an academic piece of research without real benefits to practical applications. This paper presents a spatial spectral mutual information (SSMI) BS scheme that utilizes a spatial feature extraction technique as a preprocessing step, followed by the clustering of the mutual information (MI) of spectral bands for enhancing the efficiency of the BS. Through the SSMI BS scheme, a sharp ’bell’-shaped accuracy-dimensionality characteristic that peaks at about 20 bands has been observed for the very first time. The performance of the proposed SSMI BS scheme has been validated through 6 hyperspectral imaging (HSI) datasets (Indian Pines, Botswana, Barrax, Pavia University, Salinas, and Kennedy Space Center (KSC)), and its classification accuracy is shown to be approximately 10% better than seven state-of-the-art BS schemes (Saliency, HyperBS, SLN, OCF, FDPC, ISSC, and Convolution Neural Network (CNN)). The present result confirms that the high efficiency of the BS scheme is essentially important to observe and validate the Hughes’ phenomenon in the analysis of HSI data. Experiments also show that the classification accuracy can be affected by as much as approximately 10% when a single ‘crucial’ band is included or missed out for classification.
Interdisciplinary Learning in Mathematics and Science: Transfer of Learning for 21st Century Problem Solving at University
Authors: Nakakoji Yoshitaka , Wilson Rachel
Published: September 2020

Transfer of learning, the application of learning to different contexts over time, is important to all learning for development. As 21st century skills specifically aim to be “generic,” there is an assumption that they can be transferred from context to context. We investigate the process of transfer in problem solving, with specific focus on mathematical problem solving tasks. Problem solving is highly valued in 21st century workplaces, where mathematical skills are also considered to be foundational in STEM and of paramount importance. This study examines the transfer of first semester mathematics learning to problem solving in second semester physics at university. We report on: (1) university students’ (n = 10) “think-aloud” accounts of the process of transfer; and (2) students’ (n = 10) and academics’ (n = 8) perspectives on transfer processes and problem solving. Think-aloud accounts show students’ recursive use of interpretation, integration, planning and execution thinking processes and highlight the meta-cognitive strategies used in transfer. Academics’ and students’ perspectives on transfer show disparities. Understanding these perspectives is important to current initiatives to integrate and optimise 21st century learning within universities. We argue that renewed attention on the concept of transfer is needed if the generic aims of 21st century skills are to be understood and promoted.
Asymmetric Magnetoelectrochemistry: An Efficient Method to Grow Enantiopure Self-Assemble Monolayer
Authors: Mishra Suryakant , Bhowmick Debkumar
Published: September 2020

In this work, we are presenting magnetic field dependent electrochemical method to grow enantiopure monolayer. Thiol gold monolayer formation by redox reaction is studied on gold coated ferromagnetic surface. Infrared and photoemission spectroscopies are used to probe the quality of the monolayers, grown using different direction of magnetization of surface. Commercially available chiral molecules, L-cysteine along with dsDNA are used as control molecules for the measurements. Since it is established by aligning the electron spin within the surface, it helps to adsorb specific enantiomer of molecules, we have shown how direction of the magnet helps to grow good quality monolayer. Potential application of this work is in improving quality of monolayer and chiral separation.
Weaker Conditions for the q-Steffensen Inequality and Some Related Generalizations
Authors: Smoljak Kalamir Ksenija
Published: September 2020

The aim of this paper is to study the q-Steffensen inequality and to prove some weaker conditions for this inequality in quantum calculus. Further, we prove q-analogues of some frequently used generalizations of Steffensen’s inequality and obtain some refinements of q-Steffensen’s inequality and its generalizations.
Analysis of Rotor-Stator Interaction of a Pump-Turbine with Splitter Blades in a Pump Mode
Authors: Song Haiqin , Zhang Jinfeng , Huang Ping , Cai Haikun , Cao Puyu , Hu Bo
Published: September 2020

The pump-turbine is the core component of a pumped storage power station. This paper considers an in-depth analysis of the rotor-stator interaction characteristics under computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and experimental measurements of pump-turbine with splitter blades used in a domestic pumped storage power station. The results show that as the guide blade opening increases, the rotor-stator interaction of the pump-turbine intensifies and the magnitude of the runner radial force and its pulsation amplitude as well as the magnitude of the guide blade water moment and its pulsation amplitude also increase. In addition, when the opening degree increases from 9.8° to 17.5°, the influence on the main frequency is mainly reflected in the phase change. While the opening degree increases from 17.5° to 24.8°, the influence on the main frequency is mainly reflected in the amplitude change. Moreover, the amplitude of 5fn at opening 9.8° and opening 24.8° is greater than the optimal opening 17.5°, indicating that deviation from the optimal opening will aggravate the difference of rotor-stator interaction between splitter blades and guide blades. In the paper, the influence of guide blade openings on the rotor-stator interaction between the splitter guide blade is studied, which provides a theoretical reference for the stable operation of the pump-turbine.
A Study of Some Families of Multivalent q-Starlike Functions Involving Higher-Order q-Derivatives
Authors: Khan Bilal , Liu Zhi-Guo , Srivastava Hari M. , Khan Nazar , Darus Maslina , Tahir Muhammad
Published: September 2020

In the present investigation, by using certain higher-order q-derivatives, the authors introduce and investigate several new subclasses of the family of multivalent q-starlike functions in the open unit disk. For each of these newly-defined function classes, several interesting properties and characteristics are systematically derived. These properties and characteristics include (for example) distortion theorems and radius problems. A number of coefficient inequalities and a sufficient condition for functions belonging to the subclasses studied here are also discussed. Relevant connections of the various results presented in this investigation with those in earlier works on this subject are also pointed out.
Insights into Exploration and Exploitation Power of Optimization Algorithm Using DSCTool
Authors: Korošec Peter , Eftimov Tome
Published: September 2020

When making statistical analysis of single-objective optimization algorithms’ performance, researchers usually estimate it according to the obtained optimization results in the form of minimal/maximal values. Though this is a good indicator about the performance of the algorithm, it does not provide any information about the reasons why it happens. One possibility to get additional information about the performance of the algorithms is to study their exploration and exploitation abilities. In this paper, we present an easy-to-use step by step pipeline that can be used for performing exploration and exploitation analysis of single-objective optimization algorithms. The pipeline is based on a web-service-based e-Learning tool called DSCTool, which can be used for making statistical analysis not only with regard to the obtained solution values but also with regard to the distribution of the solutions in the search space. Its usage does not require any special statistic knowledge from the user. The gained knowledge from such analysis can be used to better understand algorithm’s performance when compared to other algorithms or while performing hyperparameter tuning.
Improved Method for Parallelization of Evolutionary Metaheuristics
Authors: Díaz Diego , Valledor Pablo , Ena Borja , Iglesias Miguel , Menéndez César
Published: September 2020

This paper introduces a method for the distribution of any and all population-based metaheuristics. It improves on the naive approach, independent multiple runs, while adding negligible overhead. Existing methods that coordinate instances across a cluster typically require some compromise of more complex design, higher communication loads, and solution propagation rate, requiring more work to develop and more resources to run. The aim of the new method is not to achieve state-of-the-art results, but rather to provide a better baseline method than multiple independent runs. The main concept of the method is that one of the instances receives updates with the current best solution of all other instances. This work describes the general approach and its particularization to both genetic algorithms and ant colony optimization for solving Traveling Salesman Problems (TSPs). It also includes extensive tests on the TSPLIB benchmark problems of resulting quality of the solutions and anytime performance (solution quality versus time to reach it). These tests show that the new method yields better solutions for about two thirds of the problems and equivalent solutions in the remaining third, and consistently exhibits better anytime performance.
On the

Δ
n
1

Problem of Harvey Friedman
Authors: Kanovei Vladimir , Lyubetsky Vassily
Published: September 2020

In this paper, we prove the following. If n≥3, then there is a generic extension of L, the constructible universe, in which it is true that the set P(ω)∩L of all constructible reals (here—subsets of ω) is equal to the set P(ω)∩Δn1 of all (lightface) Δn1 reals. The result was announced long ago by Leo Harrington, but its proof has never been published. Our methods are based on almost-disjoint forcing. To obtain a generic extension as required, we make use of a forcing notion of the form Q=Cℂ×∏νQν in L, where C adds a generic collapse surjection b from ω onto P(ω)∩L, whereas each Qν, ν<ω2L, is an almost-disjoint forcing notion in the ω1-version, that adjoins a subset Sν of ω1L. The forcing notions involved are independent in the sense that no Qν-generic object can be added by the product of C and all Qξ, ξ≠ν. This allows the definition of each constructible real by a Σn1 formula in a suitably constructed subextension of the Q-generic extension. The subextension is generated by the surjection b, sets Sω·k+j with j∈b(k), and sets Sξ with ξ≥ω·ω. A special character of the construction of forcing notions Qν is L, which depends on a given n≥3, obscures things with definability in the subextension enough for vice versa any Δn1 real to be constructible; here the method of hidden invariance is applied. A discussion of possible further applications is added in the conclusive section.
Pitolisant and Other Histamine-3 Receptor Antagonists—An Update on Therapeutic Potentials and Clinical Prospects
Authors: Harwell Victoria , Fasinu Pius
Published: September 2020

Background: Besides its well-known role as a peripheral chemical mediator of immune, vascular, and cellular responses, histamine plays major roles in the central nervous system, particularly in the mediation of arousal and cognition-enhancement. These central effects are mediated by the histamine-3 auto receptors, the modulation of which is thought to be beneficial for the treatment of disorders that impair cognition or manifest with excessive daytime sleepiness. Methods: A database search of PubMed, Google Scholar, and clinicaltrials.gov was performed in June 2020. Full-text articles were screened and reviewed to provide an update on pitolisant and other histamine-3 receptor antagonists. Results: A new class of drugs—histamine-3 receptor antagonists—has emerged with the approval of pitolisant for the treatment of narcolepsy with or without cataplexy. At the recommended dose, pitolisant is well tolerated and effective. It has also been evaluated for potential therapeutic benefit in Parkinson disease, epilepsy, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, Alzheimer’s disease, and dementia. Limited studies have shown pitolisant to lack abuse potential which will be a major advantage over existing drug options for narcolepsy. Several histamine-3 receptor antagonists are currently in development for a variety of clinical indications. Conclusions: Although limited clinical studies have been conducted on this new class of drugs, the reviewed literature showed promising results for future additions to the clinical indications of pitolisant, and the expansion of the list of approved drugs in this class for a variety of indications.
Effects of Rare Earth (Ce and La) on Steel Corrosion Behaviors under Wet-Dry Cycle Immersion Conditions
Authors: Lian Xintong , Zhu Jianan , Wang Ruiqian , Liu Tengshi , Xu Jing , Xu Dexiang , Dong Han
Published: September 2020

Rare earth (RE) elements are beneficial to improving corrosion properties in low-carbon and low-alloy steels. In this paper, corrosion performance of Q235B steel and Q355B steel samples after RE alloying under wet-dry cycle immersion conditions were analyzed. Experimental results show that corrosion rate was significantly decreased. It was probably due to the grain refinement by RE alloying, which increased the density of protective rust layers and improved corrosion resistance. The formation of small-sized spherical RE inclusions also inhibited the precipitation of MnS and weakened micro galvanic corrosion. Additionally, RE atoms tended to segregate towards grain boundaries and a RE concentration region is formed between rust layers and matrix to impede the access from contacting corrosive ions. A corrosion resistance schematic of RE atom segregation was proposed based on microstructure morphology and element distribution results.
Potential Lipid Signatures for Diagnosis and Prognosis of Sepsis and Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome
Authors: Mecatti Giovana Colozza , Sánchez-Vinces Salvador , Fernandes Anna Maria A. P. , Messias Marcia C. F. , de Santis Gabrielle K. D. , Porcari Andreia M. , Marson Fernando A. L. , Carvalho Patrícia de Oliveira
Published: September 2020

Systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) and sepsis are two conditions which are difficult to differentiate clinically and which are strongly impacted for prompt intervention. This study identified potential lipid signatures that are able to differentiate SIRS from sepsis and to predict prognosis. Forty-two patients, including 21 patients with sepsis and 21 patients with SIRS, were involved in the study. Liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry and multivariate statistical methods were used to determine lipids present in patient plasma. The obtained lipid signatures revealed 355 features for the negative ion mode and 297 for the positive ion mode, which were relevant for differential diagnosis of sepsis and SIRS. These lipids were also tested as prognosis predictors. Lastly, L-octanoylcarnitine was found to be the most promising lipid signature for both the diagnosis and prognosis of critically ill patients, with accuracies of 75% for both purposes. In short, we presented the determination of lipid signatures as a potential tool for differential diagnosis of sepsis and SIRS and prognosis of these patients.
Effects of Backfilling Excavated Underground Space on Reducing Acid Mine Drainage in an Abandoned Mine
Authors: Yamaguchi Kohei , Tomiyama Shingo , Igarashi Toshifumi , Yamagata Saburo , Ebato Masanori , Sakoda Masatoshi
Published: September 2020

Three-dimensional groundwater flow around an abandoned mine was simulated to evaluate the effects of backfilling the excavated underground space of the mine on reducing the acid mine drainage (AMD). The conceptual model of the groundwater flow consists of not only variable geological formations but also vertical shafts, horizontal drifts, and the other excavated underground space. The steady-state groundwater flow in both days with high and little rainfall was calculated to calibrate the model. The calculated groundwater levels and flow rate of the AMD agreed with the measured ones by calibrating the hydraulic conductivity of the host rock, which was sensitive to groundwater flow in the mine. This validated model was applied to predict the flow rate of the AMD when backfilling the excavated underground space. The results showed that the flow rate of the AMD decreased by 5% to 30%. This indicates that backfilling the excavated space is one of the effective methods to reduce AMD of abandoned mines.
Applications and Limitations of Dendrimers in Biomedicine
Authors: Chis Adriana Aurelia , Dobrea Carmen , Morgovan Claudiu , Arseniu Anca Maria , Rus Luca Liviu , Butuca Anca , Juncan Anca Maria , Totan Maria , Vonica-Tincu Andreea Loredana , Cormos Gabriela , Muntean Andrei Catalin , Muresan Maria Lucia , Gligor Felicia Gabriela , Frum Adina
Published: September 2020

Biomedicine represents one of the main study areas for dendrimers, which have proven to be valuable both in diagnostics and therapy, due to their capacity for improving solubility, absorption, bioavailability and targeted distribution. Molecular cytotoxicity constitutes a limiting characteristic, especially for cationic and higher-generation dendrimers. Antineoplastic research of dendrimers has been widely developed, and several types of poly(amidoamine) and poly(propylene imine) dendrimer complexes with doxorubicin, paclitaxel, imatinib, sunitinib, cisplatin, melphalan and methotrexate have shown an improvement in comparison with the drug molecule alone. The anti-inflammatory therapy focused on dendrimer complexes of ibuprofen, indomethacin, piroxicam, ketoprofen and diflunisal. In the context of the development of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains, dendrimer complexes of fluoroquinolones, macrolides, beta-lactamines and aminoglycosides have shown promising effects. Regarding antiviral therapy, studies have been performed to develop dendrimer conjugates with tenofovir, maraviroc, zidovudine, oseltamivir and acyclovir, among others. Furthermore, cardiovascular therapy has strongly addressed dendrimers. Employed in imaging diagnostics, dendrimers reduce the dosage required to obtain images, thus improving the efficiency of radioisotopes. Dendrimers are macromolecular structures with multiple advantages that can suffer modifications depending on the chemical nature of the drug that has to be transported. The results obtained so far encourage the pursuit of new studies.
Rhythmic Synchrony with Artificial Agents and Its Effects on Frequency of Visual Illusions Seen in White Noise
Authors: Takahashi Hideyuki , Ban Midori , Asada Minoru , Ishiguro Hiroshi
Published: September 2020

Rhythmic synchrony among different individuals has often been observed in various religious rituals and it has been known to bring various psychological effects in human minds. This study investigated the effects of induced rhythmic synchrony with artificial agents in drumming on participants’ visual illusions. The participants completed a task with three cartoon agents on a computer screen beating drums taking turns. We then investigated whether participants were tended to find more meaningful shapes in displayed random dots (pareidolia) when rhythms of intervals between each agents’ drumbeats were in-sync rather than out-of-sync. We simultaneously compared an active condition, in which participants took the role as one of three agents to beat a drum, with a passive condition, in which they only observed three agents beating the drums. The results showed that pareidolia appeared strongly in participants where the drum rhythm was in sync, regardless of active and passive conditions.
Photocatalytic Inactivation of Plant Pathogenic Bacteria Using TiO2 Nanoparticles Prepared Hydrothermally
Authors: Kőrösi László , Pertics Botond , Schneider György , Bognár Balázs , Kovács János , Meynen Vera , Scarpellini Alice , Pasquale Lea , Prato Mirko
Published: September 2020

Exploitation of engineered nanomaterials with unique properties has been dynamically growing in numerous fields, including the agricultural sector. Due to the increasing resistance of phytopathogenic microbes, human control over various plant pathogens in crop production is a big challenge and requires the development of novel antimicrobial materials. Photocatalytic active nanomaterials could offer an alternative solution to suppress the plant pathogens. In this work, titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) with high photocatalytic activity were synthesized by hydrothermal post-treatment of amorphous titania at different temperatures (250 °C or 310 °C) without using any additives or doping agents. The obtained samples were investigated through X-ray diffraction, N2-sorption measurements, diffuse reflectance UV-Vis spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The applied hydrothermal treatment led to the formation of TiO2 nanocrystallites with a predominant anatase crystal phase, with increasing crystallinity and crystallite size by prolonging treatment time. The photocatalytic activity of the TiO2 NPs was tested for the photo-degradation of phenol and applied for the inactivation of various plant pathogens such as Erwinia amylovora, Xanthomonas arboricola pv. juglandis, Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato and Allorhizobium vitis. The studied bacteria showed different susceptibilities; their living cell numbers were quickly and remarkably reduced by UV-A-irradiated TiO2 NPs. The effectiveness of the most active sample prepared at 310 °C was much higher than that of commercial P25 TiO2. We found that fine-tuning of the structural properties by modulating the time and temperature of the hydrothermal treatment influenced the photocatalytic properties of the TiO2 NPs considerably. This work provides valuable information to the development of TiO2-based antimicrobial photocatalysts.
New Limits for Stability of Supercapacitor Electrode Material Based on Graphene Derivative
Authors: Šedajová Veronika , Jakubec Petr , Bakandritsos Aristides , Ranc Václav , Otyepka Michal
Published: September 2020

Supercapacitors offer a promising alternative to batteries, especially due to their excellent power density and fast charging rate capability. However, the cycling stability and material synthesis reproducibility need to be significantly improved to enhance the reliability and durability of supercapacitors in practical applications. Graphene acid (GA) is a conductive graphene derivative dispersible in water that can be prepared on a large scale from fluorographene. Here, we report a synthesis protocol with high reproducibility for preparing GA. The charging/discharging rate stability and cycling stability of GA were tested in a two-electrode cell with a sulfuric acid electrolyte. The rate stability test revealed that GA could be repeatedly measured at current densities ranging from 1 to 20 A g−1 without any capacitance loss. The cycling stability experiment showed that even after 60,000 cycles, the material kept 95.3% of its specific capacitance at a high current density of 3 A g−1. The findings suggested that covalent graphene derivatives are lightweight electrode materials suitable for developing supercapacitors with extremely high durability.
Dietary Interventions in the Management of Fibromyalgia: A Systematic Review and Best-Evidence Synthesis
Authors: Lowry Ethan , Marley Joanne , McVeigh Joseph G. , McSorley Emeir , Allsopp Philip , Kerr Daniel
Published: September 2020

Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is characterised by chronic widespread pain alongside fatigue, poor sleep quality and numerous comorbidities. It is estimated to have a worldwide prevalence of 1.78%, with a predominance in females. Treatment interventions for fibromyalgia have limited success, leading to many patients seeking alternative forms of treatment, including modifications to their diet and lifestyle. The effectiveness of dietary changes in fibromyalgia has not been widely researched or evaluated. This systematic review identified twenty-two studies, including 18 randomised control trials (RCTs) and four cohort studies which were eligible for inclusion. In total these studies investigated 17 different nutritional interventions. Significant improvements in reported pain were observed for those following a vegan diet, as well as with the low fermentable oligo di-mono-saccharides and polyols (FODMAP) diets. Supplementation with Chlorella green algae, coenzyme Q10, acetyl-l-carnitine or a combination of vitamin C and E significantly improved measures of pain. Interpretation of these studies was limited due to the frequent poor quality of the study design, the wide heterogeneity between studies, the small sample size and a high degree of bias. Therefore, there is insufficient evidence to recommend any one particular nutritional intervention for the management of fibromyalgia and further research is needed.
An Increase in Liver Polyamine Concentration Contributes to the Tryptophan-Induced Acute Stimulation of Rat Hepatic Protein Synthesis
Authors: Koike Shinichiro , Kabuyama Yukihito , Obeng Kodwo Amuzuah , Sugahara Kunio , Sato Yusuke , Yoshizawa Fumiaki
Published: September 2020

Tryptophan has a unique role as a nutritional signaling molecule that regulates protein synthesis in mouse and rat liver. However, the mechanism underlying the stimulating actions of tryptophan on hepatic protein synthesis remains unclear. Proteomic and metabolomic analyses were performed to identify candidate proteins and metabolites likely to play a role in the stimulation of protein synthesis by tryptophan. Overnight-fasted rats were orally administered L-tryptophan and then sacrificed 1 or 3 h after administration. Four differentially expressed protein spots were detected in rat liver at 3 h after tryptophan administration, of which one was identified as an ornithine aminotransferase (OAT) precursor. OAT is the main catabolic enzyme for ornithine, and its expression was significantly decreased by tryptophan administration. The concentration of ornithine was increased in the liver at 3 h after tryptophan administration. Ornithine is a precursor for polyamine biosynthesis. Significantly increased concentrations of polyamines were found in the liver at 3 h after administration of tryptophan. Additionally, enhanced hepatic protein synthesis was demonstrated by oral administration of putrescine. We speculate that the increase in ornithine level through suppression of OAT expression by tryptophan administration may lead to accelerated polyamine synthesis, thereby promoting protein synthesis in the liver.
Assessment of CafA Targeted BAR-Encapsulated Nanoparticles against Oral Biofilms
Authors: Desai Hetal , Mahmoud Mohamed Y. , Tan Jinlian , Minooei Farnaz , Demuth Donald R. , Steinbach-Rankins Jill M.
Published: September 2020

Porphyromonas gingivalis adherence to Streptococcus gordonii is a crucial initial event that facilitates the colonization of P. gingivalis, a key pathogen in periodontal disease. As such, blocking these early interactions may present a potential avenue to limit P. gingivalis colonization. Nanoparticles encapsulating a synthetic peptide BAR (BAR-encapsulated NPs) inhibit P. gingivalis/S. gordonii biofilm formation 1.8-fold more potently relative to free BAR. However, BAR-encapsulated NPs, like many orally delivered formulations, may benefit from a strategy that improves their retention in an open flow environment. Here, we sought to enhance the efficacy of BAR-encapsulated NPs by modifying their surfaces with coaggregation factor A (CafA), a fimbrial protein expressed by the early colonizer, Actinomyces oris. We demonstrate that the targeting moiety, CafA, enhances NP binding and exhibits specificity of adherence to S. gordonii, relative to other oral bacterial species. Furthermore, CafA-modified NPs release inhibitory concentrations of BAR for 12 h, a time frame relevant to oral dosage form delivery. Lastly, CafA-modified NPs potently inhibit P. gingivalis/S. gordonii biofilm formation for up to 12 h and are non-toxic at therapeutically-relevant concentrations. These results suggest that CafA-modified NPs represent a novel and efficacious delivery vehicle for localized, targeted delivery of BAR to P. gingivalis preferred niches.
The Philosophy of Freedom and the History of Art: An Interdisciplinary View
Authors: Gordon Robert Edward
Published: September 2020

This article investigates the relationship between the philosophy of freedom and the history of art. It maintains that contemplating the two fields together is productive and necessary in understanding some of the compelling interdisciplinary aspects at work in both arenas. Isaiah Berlin’s seminal Two Concepts of Liberty (1958) acts as a touchstone, as the essay establishes the historical and political grounds for uniting the two fields, with other thinkers contributing to the analysis. The ideas discussed correlate the history of art as a narrative of creativity and freedom with art’s political function as it pertains to the positive–negative liberty perspective. These two forces offer a fecund way of thinking about freedom and the arts co-terminally. This essay argues that the creative motivations embedded in the history of art are intimately linked to political motivations, which it is claimed tie the two subjects together both historically and philosophically.
Roles of Aquaporins in Plant-Pathogen Interaction
Authors: Li Guangjin , Chen Tong , Zhang Zhanquan , Li Boqiang , Tian Shiping
Published: September 2020

Aquaporins (AQPs) are a class of small, membrane channel proteins present in a wide range of organisms. In addition to water, AQPs can facilitate the efficient and selective flux of various small solutes involved in numerous essential processes across membranes. A growing body of evidence now shows that AQPs are important regulators of plant-pathogen interaction, which ultimately lead to either plant immunity or pathogen pathogenicity. In plants, AQPs can mediate H2O2 transport across plasma membranes (PMs) and contribute to the activation of plant defenses by inducing pathogen-associated molecular pattern (PAMP)-triggered immunity and systemic acquired resistance (SAR), followed by downstream defense reactions. This involves the activation of conserved mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling cascades, the production of callose, the activation of NPR1 and PR genes, as well as the opening and closing of stomata. On the other hand, pathogens utilize aquaporins to mediate reactive oxygen species (ROS) signaling and regulate their normal growth, development, secondary or specialized metabolite production and pathogenicity. This review focuses on the roles of AQPs in plant immunity, pathogenicity, and communications during plant-pathogen interaction.
Microfluidics for Two-Dimensional Nanosheets: A Mini Review
Authors: Choi Chang-Ho , Kwak Yeongwon , Malhotra Rajiv , Chang Chih-Hung
Published: September 2020

Since the discovery of graphene, there has been increasing interest in two-dimensional (2D) materials. To realize practical applications of 2D materials, it is essential to isolate mono- or few-layered 2D nanosheets from unexfoliated counterparts. Liquid phase exfoliation (LPE) is the most common technique to produce atomically thin-layered 2D nanosheets. However, low production yield and prolonged process time remain key challenges. Recently, novel exfoliation processes based on microfluidics have been developed to achieve rapid and high yield production of few-layer 2D nanosheets. We review the primary types of microfluidic-based exfoliation techniques in terms of the underlying process mechanisms and the applications of the 2D nanosheets thus produced. The key challenges and future directions are discussed in the above context to delineate future research directions in this exciting area of materials processing.
‘Sami Religion’ in Sámi Curricula in RE in the Norwegian School System: An Analysis of the Importance of Terms
Authors: Andreassen Bengt-Ove , Olsen Torjer A.
Published: September 2020

In this article, we map and analyse the changes in conceptualisation and ideas on Sámi and indigenous people in the Sámi (Religious Education) RE curricula for primary and secondary school in the period from 1997 to 2015. Through the analysis of five sets of curricula for RE in this period, we investigate how they introduce a new set of ideas and concepts concerning religion related to the Sámi as an indigenous people. ‘Circumpolar indigenous people’s religion’ is a concept and a category that is primarily found within the Sámi curriculum of Norway’s educational system. As such, we argue it is a way of religion making through the conceptualization of Sámi religion in particular, and indigenous religions in general.
Address Identification Using Telematics: An Algorithm to Identify Dwell Locations
Authors: Grumiau Christopher , Mostoufi Mina , Pavlioglou Solon , Verdonck Tim
Published: September 2020

In this work, a method is proposed for exploiting the predictive power of a geo-tagged dataset as a means of identification of user-relevant points of interest (POI). The proposed methodology is subsequently applied in an insurance context for the automatic identification of a driver’s residence address, solely based on his pattern of movements on the map. The analysis is performed on a real-life telematics dataset. We have anonymized the considered dataset for the purpose of this study to respect privacy regulations. The model performance is evaluated based on an independent batch of the dataset for which the address is known to be correct. The model is capable of predicting the residence postal code of the user with a high level of accuracy, with an f1 score of 0.83. A reliable result of the proposed method could generate benefits beyond the area of fraud, such as general data quality inspections, one-click quotations, and better-targeted marketing.
The Practice of Co-Production through Biocultural Design: A Case Study among the Bribri People of Costa Rica and Panama
Authors: Rodríguez Valencia Mariana
Published: September 2020

Research in co-production has given rise to a rich scientific literature in sustainability science. The processes by which co-production occurs are not well documented. Here, I present my work with the Bribri people to undertake a biocultural design project. Biocultural design is a process that begins with understanding participants’ aspirations to support their livelihoods. The process is collaborative, imagining ideas and executing products and services by drawing upon the capabilities of the participant’s biocultural heritage. In the Bribri territory, the biocultural heritage associated with cacao agroforestry systems is considered significant for Bribri livelihoods. Bribri people’s aspirations to grow cacao go beyond increasing cacao yields and include the respect for cultural teachings and social relationships. The participants of this project designed cacao value-added products (e.g., cacao jam, cacao butter) and services (e.g., showcase farm) by identifying viable ways to execute their ideas. Biocultural design offers a guide to co-imagine and co-execute ideas to solve specific problems and contributes to the practice of co-production by offering an approach that recognizes the value of science, while respecting the knowledge, aspirations and values of other actors.
Restaurant Industry Practices to Promote Healthy Sustainable Eating: A Content Analysis of Restaurant Websites Using the Value Chain Approach
Authors: Yoon Borham , Chung Yeasun , Jun Kyungyul
Published: September 2020

The purpose of this study is to help researchers and restaurant owners gain an understanding of healthy sustainable initiatives within restaurant businesses. This study applied a content analysis of 93 restaurant chains’ websites with a systematic coding procedure. The study identified fifteen healthy sustainable initiatives under a value chain framework, four of which follow value chain dimensions: sourcing, production, marketing, and service. The most frequently mentioned healthy sustainable practice was presenting nutrition-related information, followed by providing healthy menu options and using organic/natural produce. Sit-down restaurants were more likely to engage in healthy sustainable eating initiatives than were fast-food restaurants (e.g., increasing the availability of healthy options, smaller/reduced portion sizes, using fresh and local food, and using healthy cooking methods). This study contributes to the restaurant/foodservice management and food marketing literature by showing a comprehensive picture of what U.S. restaurant chains are doing to promote healthy sustainable eating. The findings can be used as a benchmark tool for practitioners to evaluate and develop healthy sustainable restaurant initiatives and as the foundation of measurement items for scholars.
Empirical Study of Urban Development Evaluation Indicators Based on the Urban Metabolism Concept
Authors: Ko Yun-Yun , Chiu Yin-Hao
Published: September 2020

Sustainable development is the concept of coordinating people and the environment and achieves contemporary development without compromising the interests of the next generation. It can also be thought of as not exceeding the biosphere’s carrying capacity. Urban metabolism emphasizes resource recycling and use to achieve balance between resource input and product output in urban areas. However, the scale of cities has expanded rapidly in recent years along with resource and energy demands. Waste and pollution also cause major threats to the environment and ecology. Given increasingly serious environmental problems, the original linear metabolism must be converted into a cyclical one to ensure urban sustainability. From the policy implementation report of Taipei City, this study used the fuzzy Delphi method to develop evaluation factors and integrated this with the analytic network process decision-making tool to determine the priority weights of each policy and evaluate development strategies for urban development based on the metabolism concept. The study results reveal that natural environmental sustainability and sustainable energy strategies were prioritized plans for evaluating urban development with the metabolism concept, and the results can be used as a reference for future urban development strategies.
How Can TV Food Programs Be Used as an Effective Restaurant Marketing Tool? An Extension of ELM with Perceived Risk
Authors: Sung Hye Jin , Kim Hyun Young , Cho Meehee
Published: September 2020

In today’s modern society, television (TV) food programs exert significant influence in the domestic and international foodservice market. This study applied the elaboration likelihood model (ELM) to examine the information processing and decision-making activities of restaurant customers related to TV food shows that they watched. The ELM was expanded and tested by including perceived risk as a factor influencing attitude towards a restaurant. A total of 347 responses obtained from Korean residents, who had obtained information delivered by a messenger in a TV program and had subsequently visited that restaurant in the three months prior to the survey were analyzed. Results revealed that the information quality components significantly influenced attitude towards restaurants. For the peripheral route, while the credibility of the messenger had no significant impact, the vividness of expression had a positive impact on attitude towards restaurants. Performance risk was shown to have a negative impact on attitude towards the restaurant. However, time risk, possibly requiring long-distance travel or long waiting times for available tables played a positive role. The long wait times may be perceived well because many people wanting to eat at the restaurants is a positive sign about the experience. Attitude towards a restaurant positively influenced visit intention. Based on the study’s findings, discussion, implications, and limitations for future studies are provided.