bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison between Self-Reported and Accelerometer-Measured Physical Activity in Young versus Older Children
Authors: Triantafyllidis Andreas , Alexiadis Anastasios , Soutos Konstantinos , Fischer Thomas , Votis Konstantinos , Tzovaras Dimitrios
Published: April 2021

Physical inactivity in children is a major public health challenge, for which valid physical activity assessment tools are needed. Wearable devices provide a means for objective assessment of children’s physical activity, but they are often not adopted because of issues such as cost, comfort, and privacy. In this context, self-reporting tools could be employed, but their validity in relation to a child’s age is understudied. We present the agreement of one of the most popular self-reporting tools, the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Children (PAQ-C) with accelerometer-measured physical activity in 9-year-old versus 12-year-old children, wearing an accelerometer-based wearable device for seven consecutive days. We study the relationship between the PAQ-C and accelerometer scores using Spearman’s rank correlation coefficients and Bland–Altman plots in a sample of 131 children included for analysis. Overall, there was correlation between PAQ-C score and physical activity measures for the 12-year-old children (rho = 0.47 for total physical activity, rho = 0.43 for moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, rho = 0.41 for steps, p < 0.01), but not for the 9-year-old children (rho = 0.08 for total physical activity, rho = 0.21 for moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, rho = 0.19 for steps, p > 0.05). All PAQ-C items other than item 3 (activity at recess) did not reach significance in correlation with accelerometry for the 9-year-old children (p > 0.05). Therefore, the use of wearable devices for more objective assessment of physical activity in younger children should be preferred.
Bound on Efficiency of Heat Engine from Uncertainty Relation Viewpoint
Authors: Chattopadhyay Pritam , Mitra Ayan , Paul Goutam , Zarikas Vasilios
Published: April 2021

Quantum cycles in established heat engines can be modeled with various quantum systems as working substances. For example, a heat engine can be modeled with an infinite potential well as the working substance to determine the efficiency and work done. However, in this method, the relationship between the quantum observables and the physically measurable parameters—i.e., the efficiency and work done—is not well understood from the quantum mechanics approach. A detailed analysis is needed to link the thermodynamic variables (on which the efficiency and work done depends) with the uncertainty principle for better understanding. Here, we present the connection of the sum uncertainty relation of position and momentum operators with thermodynamic variables in the quantum heat engine model. We are able to determine the upper and lower bounds on the efficiency of the heat engine through the uncertainty relation.
Exploring Neurofeedback Training for BMI Power Augmentation of Upper Limbs: A Pilot Study
Authors: Liang Hongbo , Maedono Shota , Yu Yingxin , Liu Chang , Ueda Naoya , Li Peirang , Zhu Chi
Published: April 2021

Electroencephalography neurofeedback (EEG-NFB) training can induce changes in the power of targeted EEG bands. The objective of this study is to enhance and evaluate the specific changes of EEG power spectral density that the brain-machine interface (BMI) users can reliably generate for power augmentation through EEG-NFB training. First, we constructed an EEG-NFB training system for power augmentation. Then, three subjects were assigned to three NFB training stages, based on a 6-day consecutive training session as one stage. The subjects received real-time feedback from their EEG signals by a robotic arm while conducting flexion and extension movement with their elbow and shoulder joints, respectively. EEG signals were compared with each NFB training stage. The training results showed that EEG beta (12–40 Hz) power increased after the NFB training for both the elbow and the shoulder joints’ movements. EEG beta power showed sustained improvements during the 3-stage training, which revealed that even the short-term training could improve EEG signals significantly. Moreover, the training effect of the shoulder joints was more obvious than that of the elbow joints. These results suggest that NFB training can improve EEG signals and clarify the specific EEG changes during the movement. Our results may even provide insights into how the neural effects of NFB can be better applied to the BMI power augmentation system and improve the performance of healthy individuals.
Photovoltaic Farms—Economic Efficiency of Investments in North-East Poland
Authors: Brodziński Zbigniew , Brodzińska Katarzyna , Szadziun Mikołaj
Published: April 2021

The abandonment of conventional sources in favor of energy from renewable energy sources (RES) has a global dimension, and the dynamic increase in the share of energy from photovoltaic systems in the energy mix of many countries results from the possibility of obtaining it both on a small scale (micro-installations) and as part of economic investments (photovoltaic power plants). The study aimed to assess the economic efficiency of 22 photovoltaic farms located in northeastern Poland. The research covered 5 solar power plants with a capacity of up to 799 kWp (I), 13 between 800 and 1100 kWp (II), and 4 installations of 1.98 MWp (III). The evaluation was based on net present value (NPV), internal rate of return (IRR), payback period (PP), profitability index (PI), accounting rate of return (ARR). Additionally, a sensitivity analysis was carried out regarding the value of economic indicators. The analysis shows that all studied PV farms are economically justified investments (NPV > 0) regardless of the adopted scenario. Solar power plants of the largest analyzed capacity (group III) resulted in being the most profitable ones, but no linear relationship between the level of productivity and profitability was established. Due to the large variation in terrain shape in northeastern Poland, landscape value and social benefits, which are difficult to assess, the support system for investments regarding the construction of photovoltaic power plants proved to be the most effective in group I.
Improved Formation Kinetics of Carbon Dioxide Hydrate in Brine Induced by Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate
Authors: Liu Lu , Yao Yuanxin , Zhou Xuebing , Zhang Yanan , Liang Deqing
Published: April 2021

Due to high efficiency and low cost, hydrate-based desalination is investigated as a pretreatment method for seawater desalination. To improve the formation rate of hydrates, the effect of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) on CO2 hydrate formation from a 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution was measured at 275 K and 3 MPa. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and cryo-scanning electron microscopy (cryo-SEM) were used to measure the crystal structure and micromorphology of the formed hydrates. The results showed that the induction time of CO2 hydrate formation reduced from 32 to 2 min when SDS concentration increased from 0.01 to 0.05%, the hydrate conversion rate increased from 12.06 to 23.32%, and the remaining NaCl concentration increased from 3.997 to 4.515 wt.%. However, as the SDS concentration surpassed 0.05 wt.%, the induction time increased accompanied by a decrease in the hydrate conversion rate. XRD showed that the CO2 hydrate was a structure I hydrate, and SDS had no influence on the hydrate structure. However, cryo-SEM images revealed that SDS promoted the formation of hydrates by increasing the specific surface area of the formed hydrates and folds; rods and clusters could be found on the surface of the CO2 hydrate. Thus, the best SDS concentration for promoting CO2 hydrate formation was approximately 0.05 wt.%; desalination was most efficient at this concentration.
A Flexible Piezoelectric Energy Harvester-Based Single-Layer WS2 Nanometer 2D Material for Self-Powered Sensors
Authors: Wang Quan , Kim Kyung-Bum , Woo Sang Bum , Song Yoo Seob , Sung Tae Hyun
Published: April 2021

A piezoelectric sensor is a typical self-powered sensor. With the advantages of a high sensitivity, high frequency band, high signal-to-noise ratio, simple structure, light weight, and reliable operation, it has gradually been applied to the field of smart wearable devices. Here, we first report a flexible piezoelectric sensor (FPS) based on tungsten disulfide (WS2) monolayers that generate electricity when subjected to human movement. The generator maximum voltage was 2.26 V, and the produced energy was 55.45 μJ of the electrical charge on the capacitor (capacity: 220 μF) when applying periodic pressing by 13 kg. The generator demonstrated here can meet the requirements of human motion energy because it generates an average voltage of 7.74 V (a knee), 8.7 V (a sole), and 4.58 V (an elbow) when used on a running human (weight: 75 kg). Output voltages embody distinct patterns for different human parts, the movement-recognition capability of the cellphone application. This generator is quite promising for smart sensors in human–machine interaction detecting personal movement.
Innovative Energy Management System for MVDC Networks with Black-Start Capabilities
Authors: Alassi Abdulrahman , Ahmed Khaled , Egea-Àlvarez Agustí , Ellabban Omar
Published: April 2021

Medium voltage DC (MVDC) networks are attracting more attention amid increased renewables penetration. The reliability of these DC systems is critical, especially following grid contingencies to maintain critical loads supply and provide ancillary services, such as black-start. This paper proposes an innovative energy management system (EMS) to maintain reliable MVDC network operation under prolonged AC grid contingencies. Similar EMS designs in literature tend to focus on limited operating modes and fall short of covering comprehensive elongated blackout considerations. The proposed EMS in this paper aims to preserve the distribution network functionality of the impacted MVDC system through maintaining a constant DC bus voltage, maximizing critical load supply duration, and maintaining the MVDC system black-start readiness. These objectives are achieved through controlling generation units between Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) and Voltage Regulation (VR) modes, and implementing a smart load shedding and restoration algorithm based on network parameters feedback, such as storage State of Change (SoC) and available resources. Practical design considerations for MVDC network participation in AC network black start, and the following grid synchronization steps are presented and tested as part of the EMS. The proposed system is validated through simulations and scaled lab setup experimental scenarios.
Small Cogeneration Unit with Heat and Electricity Storage
Authors: Stetina Josef , Bohm Michael , Brezina Michal
Published: April 2021

A micro cogeneration unit based on a three-cylinder internal combustion engine, Skoda MPI 1.0 L compressed natural gas (CNG), with an output of 25 kW at 3000 RPM is proposed in this paper. It is a relatively simple engine, which is already adopted by the manufacturer to operate on CNG. The engine life and design correspond to the original purpose of use in the vehicle. A detailed dynamic model was created in the GT-SUITE environment and implemented into an energy balance model that includes its internal combustion engine, heat exchangers, generator, battery storage, and water storage tank. The 1D internal combustion engine model provides us with information on engine start-up time, actual effective power, friction power, and the amount of heat going to the cooling system and exhaust pipe. The catalytic converter was removed from the exhaust pipe, and the engine was always operating at full load; thus, engine power control is not considered. An energy storage system for an island operation of the entire power unit for a large, detached house was designed to withstand accumulated energy for a few days in the case of a breakout. To reach a low initial system cost, the possible implementation of worn-out battery packs toward emission reduction in terms of the second life of the battery is proposed. The energy and emission balance are carried out, and the service life of the engine is also discussed.
Multi-Stroke Lightning Interaction with Wiring Harness: Experimental Tests and Modelling
Authors: Filik Kamil , Hajder Sebastian , Masłowski Grzegorz
Published: April 2021

This paper presents the obtained results of experimental tests and modelling of lightning disturbances that were propagated in a model of aircraft cable bundle and caused by multiple lightning return-strokes interactions. The work is a continuation of previous research, which was concerned mainly with the interaction of lightning discharge with a single return-stroke. The section of the cable harness arranged above the metal plate was investigated. In one of its wires, a multiple-stroke current representing indirect lightning effects was injected from an impulse current generator dedicated to avionics immunity tests. Overvoltages induced at the ends of other wires surrounded by a braided shield, as well as the influence of line parameters and shield grounding condition on the shape and level of observed transients, were examined. The computer simulation results match the measurement data with satisfactory accuracy, and therefore, the presented model can be used to estimate indirect lightning effects in the wiring harness of avionics.
Pollination Contribution Differs among Insects Visiting Cardiocrinum cordatum Flowers
Authors: Komamura Riko , Koyama Kohei , Yamauchi Takeo , Konno Yasuo , Gu Lingshuang
Published: April 2021

(1) Background: Cardiocrinum cordatum (Thunb.) Makino (Liliaceae) is a forest perennial herb distributed in East Asia. Although flower visitors for this plant species have been well reported, their contribution to pollination remains unknown. (2) Methods: We evaluated pollination contribution for visitors of C. cordatum flowers in a natural cool temperate forest. We investigated visiting frequency, the number of pollen grains per body surface, fruit set, and the mean number of seeds per fruit produced after a single visit of each visiting species. Combining the results of these experiments, we determined the most important pollinators of this species. (3) Results: For the population investigated in the study, the three most essential pollinators were the bumblebee (Bombus diversus tersatus) (Apidae), sweat bee (Halictidae sp.), and marmalade hoverfly (Episyrphus balteatus) (Syrphidae). Additionally, we found that the contribution of a flower-visiting ant species (Myrmica ruginodis Nylander (s.l.)) (Formicidae) is small. (4) Conclusions: Pollinator contributions differed among flower visitors. Our results underscore the insufficiency of current information about flower-visiting species to evaluate pollination contribution.
Impact of Roadside Drying on Delivered Costs for Eucalyptus globulus Logging Residue and Whole Trees Supplying a Hypothetical Energy Plant in Western Australia Using a Linear-Programming Model
Authors: Strandgard Martin , Taskhiri Mohammad Sadegh , Acuna Mauricio , Turner Paul
Published: April 2021

Australia’s large potential forest bioenergy resource is considerably underutilised, due largely to its high delivered costs. Drying forest biomass at the roadside can potentially reduce its delivered cost through weight reduction and increased net calorific value. There has been little research on the impact of roadside drying for Australian conditions and plantation species. This study compared delivered costs for three forest biomass types—Eucalyptus globulus plantation whole trees and logging residue (LR)-disaggregated (LR conventional) or aggregated (LR fuel-adapted)—and three roadside storage scenarios—no storage, ≤two-month storage and optimal storage—to supply a hypothetical thermal power plant in south-west Western Australia. The study was performed using a tactical linear programming tool (MCPlan). Roadside storage reduced delivered costs, with optimal storage (storage for up to 14 months) producing the lowest costs. Delivered costs were inversely related to forest biomass spatial density due to transport cost reductions. Whole trees, which had the highest spatial density, stored under the optimal storage scenario had the lowest delivered costs (AUD 7.89/MWh) while LR conventional, with the lowest spatial density, had the highest delivered costs when delivered without storage (AUD 15.51/MWh). For both LR types, two-month storage achieved ~60% of the savings from the optimal storage scenario but only 23% of the savings for whole trees. The findings suggested that roadside drying and high forest biomass spatial density are critical to reducing forest biomass delivered costs.
A Complex Gene Network Mediated by Ethylene Signal Transduction TFs Defines the Flower Induction and Differentiation in Olea europaea L.
Authors: Salimonti Amelia , Forgione Ivano , Sirangelo Tiziana Maria , Puccio Guglielmo , Mauceri Antonio , Mercati Francesco , Sunseri Francesco , Carbone Fabrizio
Published: April 2021

The olive tree (Olea europaea L.) is a typical Mediterranean crop, important for olive and oil production. The high tendency to bear fruits in an uneven manner, defined as irregular or alternate bearing, results in a significant economic impact for the high losses in olives and oil production. Buds from heavy loaded (‘ON’) and unloaded (‘OFF’) branches of a unique olive tree were collected in July and the next March to compare the transcriptomic profiles and get deep insight into the molecular mechanisms regulating floral induction and differentiation. A wide set of DEGs related to ethylene TFs and to hormonal, sugar, and phenylpropanoid pathways was identified in buds collected from ‘OFF’ branches. These genes could directly and indirectly modulate different pathways, suggesting their key role during the lateral bud transition to flowering stage. Interestingly, several genes related to the flowering process appeared as over-expressed in buds from March ‘OFF’ branches and they could address the buds towards flower differentiation. By this approach, interesting candidate genes related to the switch from vegetative to reproductive stages were detected and analyzed. The functional analysis of these genes will provide tools for developing breeding programs to obtain olive trees characterized by more constant productivity over the years.
Clinical Identification of Dysregulated Circulating microRNAs and Their Implication in Drug Response in Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) by Target Gene Network and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Qattan Amal , Al-Tweigeri Taher , Alkhayal Wafa , Suleman Kausar , Tulbah Asma , Amer Suad
Published: April 2021

Resistance to therapy is a persistent problem that leads to mortality in breast cancer, particularly triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). MiRNAs have become a focus of investigation as tissue-specific regulators of gene networks related to drug resistance. Circulating miRNAs are readily accessible non-invasive potential biomarkers for TNBC diagnosis, prognosis, and drug-response. Our aim was to use systems biology, meta-analysis, and network approaches to delineate the drug resistance pathways and clinical outcomes associated with circulating miRNAs in TNBC patients. MiRNA expression analysis was used to investigate differentially regulated circulating miRNAs in TNBC patients, and integrated pathway regulation, gene ontology, and pharmacogenomic network analyses were used to identify target genes, miRNAs, and drug interaction networks. Herein, we identified significant differentially expressed circulating miRNAs in TNBC patients (miR-19a/b-3p, miR-25-3p, miR-22-3p, miR-210-3p, miR-93-5p, and miR-199a-3p) that regulate several molecular pathways (PAM (PI3K/Akt/mTOR), HIF-1, TNF, FoxO, Wnt, and JAK/STAT, PD-1/PD-L1 pathways and EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance (TKIs)) involved in drug resistance. Through meta-analysis, we demonstrated an association of upregulated miR-93, miR-210, miR-19a, and miR-19b with poor overall survival outcomes in TNBC patients. These results identify miRNA-regulated mechanisms of drug resistance and potential targets for combination with chemotherapy to overcome drug resistance in TNBC. We demonstrate that integrated analysis of multi-dimensional data can unravel mechanisms of drug-resistance related to circulating miRNAs, particularly in TNBC. These circulating miRNAs may be useful as markers of drug response and resistance in the guidance of personalized medicine for TNBC.
Correlation Networks Provide New Insights into the Architecture of Testicular Steroid Pathways in Pigs
Authors: Robic Annie , Faraut Thomas , Feve Katia , Djebali Sarah , Prunier Armelle , Larzul Catherine , Liaubet Laurence
Published: April 2021

Steroid metabolism is a fundamental process in the porcine testis to provide testosterone but also estrogens and androstenone, which are essential for the physiology of the boar. This study concerns boars at an early stage of puberty. Using a RT-qPCR approach, we showed that the transcriptional activities of several genes providing key enzymes involved in this metabolism (such as CYP11A1) are correlated. Surprisingly, HSD17B3, a key gene for testosterone production, was absent from this group. An additional weighted gene co-expression network analysis was performed on two large sets of mRNA-seq to identify co-expression modules. Of these modules, two containing either CYP11A1 or HSD17B3 were further analyzed. This comprehensive correlation meta-analysis identified a group of 85 genes with CYP11A1 as hub gene, but did not allow the characterization of a robust correlation network around HSD17B3. As the CYP11A1-group includes most of the genes involved in steroid synthesis pathways (including LHCGR encoding for the LH receptor), it may control the synthesis of most of the testicular steroids. The independent expression of HSD17B3 probably allows part of the production of testosterone to escape this control. This CYP11A1-group contained also INSL3 and AGT genes encoding a peptide hormone and an angiotensin peptide precursor, respectively.
Potential Traumatic Events through the Life Cycle in an Immigrant Population
Authors: Dong Gabriella C. , Li Mengting
Published: April 2021

Existing studies on traumatic events focused on children, while it has been understudied in older adults. This study aims to examine prevalence, frequency, and severity of life events in older Chinese Americans. The data were drawn from the Population Study of Chinese Elderly (PINE) in 2017–2019. Twenty life events were evaluated, including natural disasters, personal traumatic events, and historical events. Among 3125 participants, the mean age was 75.33 (standard deviation (SD) = 8.22) with 61.06% female. Cultural Revolution (73.27%) has the highest prevalence. A total of 1819 (58.39%) participants reported typhoon and experienced multiple times. Falsely accused of crime was reported as the most severe event. Women were more likely to report family-related life events. Those with higher education were more likely to report personal traumatic events. This study is among the first to profile life events in older Chinese Americans. Age cohorts, gender roles, and socioeconomic status shape individuals’ exposure to life events. This study could help identify which vulnerable groups have high risks of exposure to traumatic events.
Analyses of Spatial and Temporal Variations of Salt Concentration in Waterbodies Based on High Resolution Measurements Using Sensors
Authors: Benjankar Rohan , Kafle Ravin , Satyal Shanti , Adhikari Nirajan
Published: April 2021

Studies have shown that salt concentrations are increasing in waterbodies such as lakes, rivers, wetlands, and streams in areas where deicers are commonly applied for winter road maintenance, resulting in degraded water quality. As the salt concentration varies spatially and temporally based on environmental and hydrological characteristics, we monitored high resolution (15 min) salt concentrations for a relatively long period (winter and spring season) at different sites (i.e., stream, urban-stream, roadside drain, and parking-lot drain) using multiple electric conductivity-based sensors. The salt concentrations were significantly different from each other considering individual sensors and different sites in both winter and spring seasons, which support past research results that concentration varies spatially. Parking-lot (1136 ± 674 ppm) and Roadside (701 ± 263 ppm) drain measured significantly higher concentration than for Stream (260 ± 60 ppm) and Urban-stream (562 ± 266 ppm) in the winter season. Similar trends were observed for the spring season, however, the mean concentrations were lower in the spring. Furthermore, salt concentrations were significantly higher during the winter (242 ± 47 ppm to 1695 ± 629 ppm) than for the spring (140 ± 23 ppm to 863 ± 440 ppm) season considering different sites, which have been attributed to the winter snow maintenance practice using deicers in past studies. All sites exceed the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) threshold (salt concentration higher than 230 mg/L) for chronic exposure level for 59% to 94% and 10% to 83% of days in winter and spring seasons, respectively. The study has highlighted the usefulness and advantages of high resolution (spatially and temporally) salt concentration measurement using sensor technology. Furthermore, the salt concentration in waterbodies can vary spatially and temporally within a small spatial scale, which may be important information for managing water quality locally. The high resolution measurements (i.e., 15 min) were helpful to capture the highest potential salt concentrations in the waterbody. Therefore, the sensor technology can help to measure high resolution salt concentrations, which can be used to quantify impacts of high salt concentrations, e.g., application of deicer for winter road maintenance on aquatic systems based on the criteria developed by USEPA.
“At Least until the Second Wave Comes…”: A Twitter Analysis of the NHS and COVID-19 between March and June 2020
Authors: McKay Kathy , Wayland Sarah , Ferguson David , Petty Jane , Kennedy Eilis
Published: April 2021

In the UK, tweets around COVID-19 and health care have primarily focused on the NHS. Recent research has identified that the psychological well-being of NHS staff has been adversely impacted as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of this study was to investigate narratives relating to the NHS and COVID-19 during the first lockdown (26 March–4 July 2020). A total of 123,880 tweets were collated and downloaded bound to the time period of the first lockdown in order to analyse the real-time discourse around COVID-19 and the NHS. Content analysis was undertaken and tweets were coded to positive and negative sentiments. Five main themes were identified: (1) the dichotomies of ‘clap for carers’; (2) problems with PPE and testing; (3) peaks of anger; (4) issues around hero worship; and (5) hints of a normality. Further research exploring and documenting social media narratives around COVID-19 and the NHS, in this and subsequent lockdowns, should help in tailoring suitable support for staff in the future and acknowledging the profound impact that the pandemic has had.
Editors’ Comments on the Special Issue “Social Determinants of Mental Health”
Authors: Motrico Emma , Salinas-Perez Jose A. , Rodero-Cosano Maria Luisa , Conejo-Cerón Sonia
Published: April 2021

Mental disorders are one of the greatest public health concerns of our time, and they are affected by social factors. To reduce the considerable burden of mental disorders, more global and systematic knowledge of the social determinants of mental health is necessary. This paper presents the results of the 27 studies included in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health Special Issue, “Social Determinants of Mental Health”. The studies are grouped into four broad categories: social inclusion and mental health, young people’s mental health, mental health at work, and mental health service users. The results cover different countries, age populations, settings, and methodologies. Finally, the main findings on the relationship between social determinants and mental health are presented and summarized.
Screening of Developmental Difficulties during the Transition to Primary School
Authors: González Carolina , Castillo Ramón D. , Franzani José Patricio , Martinich Cristian
Published: April 2021

The five-to-fifteen (FTF) questionnaire is a screening tool completed by parents that is able to distinguish developmental disorders in children aged 5 to 15 years old. The current study aimed to characterize the developmental difficulties by gender and school age (kindergarten and first grade) of children in their transition to primary school, using the Spanish-language version of the FTF questionnaire. The participants were 541 parents of typically developed children from kindergarten and first grade in public schools in Chile. Developmental difficulties were revealed, showing that boys displayed significantly more difficulties in their social skills when compared to girls, and that kindergartners displayed significantly more developmental difficulties than first graders. The children’s developmental difficulties in executive functions, social skills, and emotional/behavioral problems exhibited interactions between gender and school age. The findings were discussed in terms of current conceptualizations of both executive functions and self-regulatory processes. These processes and functions are configured early in development, are gradually consolidated over the course of school age, and can be strengthened or weakened by conditions experienced in childhood. Early screening of developmental difficulties from the parents’ perspective would facilitate early detection of problems, as early as in kindergarten, and considering the normal adaptable development of children.
Comment on Pietrapertosa et al. How to Prioritize Energy Efficiency Intervention in Municipal Public Buildings to Decrease CO2 Emissions? A Case Study from Italy. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17, 4434
Authors: Variny Miroslav
Published: April 2021

This paper responds to the article by Pietrapertosa et al., doi:10.3390/ijerph17124434, published previously in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. Its aim is to discuss the appropriateness of the studied method, to analyze its weak sides and to propose its robustness improvement. Thus, data presented in the above study were examined and recalculated, yielding, among others, indicators of annual energy savings (in kWh per m2 of total heated area) and specific proposals investment costs (in € per m2 of total heated area). By analyzing the obtained data for all public buildings, a significantly simplified approach to this problematic has been suggested while several other features of the research method and some presented results lack proper reasoning and discussion. Individual approach to each public building has been proposed and discussed point-by-point to enhance the method’s applicability. As a result, more realistic outcomes are obtained, and suitable investment actions can be proposed.
Prenatal and Perinatal Environmental Influences Shaping the Neonatal Immune System: A Focus on Asthma and Allergy Origins
Authors: García-Serna Azahara María , Martín-Orozco Elena , Hernández-Caselles Trinidad , Morales Eva
Published: April 2021

It is suggested that programming of the immune system starts before birth and is shaped by environmental influences acting during critical windows of susceptibility for human development. Prenatal and perinatal exposure to physiological, biological, physical, or chemical factors can trigger permanent, irreversible changes to the developing immune system, which may be reflected in cord blood of neonates. The aim of this narrative review is to summarize the evidence on the role of the prenatal and perinatal environment, including season of birth, mode of delivery, exposure to common allergens, a farming environment, pet ownership, and exposure to tobacco smoking and pollutants, in shaping the immune cell populations and cytokines at birth in humans. We also discuss how reported disruptions in the immune system at birth might contribute to the development of asthma and related allergic manifestations later in life.
Developing a Delphi-Based Comprehensive Core Set from the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health Framework for the Rehabilitation of Patients with Burn Injuries
Authors: Lin Yu-Ru , Wang Jr-Yi , Chang Shun-Cheng , Chang Kwang-Hwa , Chen Hung-Chou , Escorpizo Reuben , Huang Shih-Wei , Liou Tsan-Hon
Published: April 2021

Burn injuries cause disability and functional limitations in daily living. In a 2015 fire explosion in Taiwan, 499 young people sustained burn injuries. The construction of an effective and comprehensive rehabilitation program that enables patients to regain their previous function is imperative. The International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) includes multiple dimensions that can contribute to meeting this goal. An ICF core set was developed in this study for Taiwanese patients with burns. A consensus process using three rounds of the Delphi technique was employed. A multidisciplinary team of 30 experts from various institutions was formed. The questionnaire used in this study comprised 162 ICF second-level categories relevant to burn injuries. A 5-point Likert scale was used, and participants assigned a weight to the effect of each category on daily activities after burns. The consensus among ratings was assessed using Spearman’s ρ and semi-interquartile range indices. The core set for post-acute SCI was developed from categories that attained a mean score of ≥4.0 in the third round of the Delphi exercise. The core ICF set contained 68 categories. Of these, 19 comprised the component of body functions, 5 comprised body structures, 37 comprised activities and participation, and 7 comprised environmental factors. This preliminary core set offers a comprehensive system for disability assessment and verification following burn injury. The core set provides information for effective rehabilitation strategy setting for patients with burns. Further feasibility and validation studies are required in the future.
A Predictive Model to Analyze the Factors Affecting the Presence of Traumatic Brain Injury in the Elderly Occupants of Motor Vehicle Crashes Based on Korean In-Depth Accident Study (KIDAS) Database
Authors: Lee Hee Young , Youk Hyun , Kim Oh Hyun , Kang Chan Young , Kong Joon Seok , Choo Yeon Il , Choi Doo Ruh , Lee Hae Ju , Kang Dong Ku , Lee Kang Hyun
Published: April 2021

Traumatic brain injury (TBI), also known as intracranial injury, occurs when an external force injures the brain. This study aimed to analyze the factors affecting the presence of TBI in the elderly occupants of motor vehicle crashes. We defined elderly occupants as those more than 55 years old. Damage to the vehicle was presented using the Collision Deformation Classification (CDC) code by evaluation of photos of the damaged vehicle, and a trauma score was used for evaluation of the severity of the patient’s injury. A logistic regression model was used to identify factors affecting TBI in elderly occupants and a predictive model was constructed. We performed this study retrospectively and gathered all the data under the Korean In-Depth Accident Study (KIDAS) investigation system. Among 3697 patients who visited the emergency room in the regional emergency medical center due to motor vehicle crashes from 2011 to 2018, we analyzed the data of 822 elderly occupants, which were divided into two groups: the TBI patients (N = 357) and the non-TBI patients (N = 465). According to multiple logistic regression analysis, the probabilities of TBI in the elderly caused by rear-end (OR = 1.833) and multiple collisions (OR = 1.897) were higher than in frontal collision. Furthermore, the probability of TBI in the elderly was 1.677 times higher in those with unfastened seatbelts compared to those with fastened seatbelts (OR = 1.677). This study was meaningful in that it incorporated several indicators that affected the occurrence of the TBI in the elderly occupants. In addition, it was performed to determine the probability of TBI according to sex, vehicle type, seating position, seatbelt status, collision type, and crush extent using logistic regression analysis. In order to derive more precise predictive models, it would be needed to analyze more factors for vehicle damage, environment, and occupant injury in future studies.
CRISPR/Cas9-Mediated Knockout of GmFATB1 Significantly Reduced the Amount of Saturated Fatty Acids in Soybean Seeds
Authors: Ma Jing , Sun Shuo , Whelan James , Shou Huixia
Published: April 2021

Soybean (Glycine max) oil is one of the most widely used vegetable oils across the world. Breeding of soybean to reduce the saturated fatty acid (FA) content, which is linked to cardiovascular disease, would be of great significance for nutritional improvement. Acyl-acyl carrier protein thioesterases (FATs) can release free FAs and acyl-ACP, which ultimately affects the FA profile. In this study, we identified a pair of soybean FATB coding genes, GmFATB1a and GmFATB1b. Mutants that knock out either or both of the GmFATB1 genes were obtained via CRISPR/Cas9. Single mutants, fatb1a and fatb1b, showed a decrease in leaf palmitic and stearic acid contents, ranging from 11% to 21%. The double mutant, fatb1a:1b, had a 42% and 35% decrease in palmitic and stearic acid content, displayed growth defects, and were male sterility. Analysis of the seed oil profile revealed that fatb1a and fatb1b had significant lower palmitic and stearic acid contents, 39–53% and 17–37%, respectively, while that of the unsaturated FAs were the same. The relative content of the beneficial FA, linoleic acid, was increased by 1.3–3.6%. The oil profile changes in these mutants were confirmed for four generations. Overall, our data illustrate that GmFATB1 knockout mutants have great potential in improving the soybean oil quality for human health.
The Role of Molecular and Inflammatory Indicators in the Assessment of Cognitive Dysfunction in a Mouse Model of Diabetes
Authors: Piatkowska-Chmiel Iwona , Herbet Mariola , Gawronska-Grzywacz Monika , Ostrowska-Lesko Marta , Dudka Jaroslaw
Published: April 2021

The brain is the most vulnerable organ to glucose fluctuations, as well as inflammation. Considering that cognitive impairment might occur at the early stage of diabetes, it is very important to identify key markers of early neuronal dysfunction. Our overall goal was to identify neuroinflammatory and molecular indicators of early cognitive impairment in diabetic mice. To confirm cognitive impairment in diabetic mice, series of behavioral tests were conducted. The markers related to cognitive decline were classified into the following two groups: Neuroinflammatory markers: IL-1β, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and genetic markers (Bdnf, Arc, Egr1) which were estimated in brain regions. Our studies showed a strong association between hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, neuroinflammation, and cognitive dysfunction in T2DM mice model. Cognitive impairment recorded in diabetes mice were associated not only with increased levels of cytokines but also decreased Arc and Egr1 mRNA expression level in brain regions associated with learning process and memory formation. The results of our research show that these indicators may be useful to test new forms of treatment of early cognitive dysfunction associated not only with diabetes but other diseases manifesting this type of disorders. The significant changes in Arc and Egr1 gene expression in early stage diabetes create opportunities it possible to use them to track the progression of CNS dysfunction and also to differential disease diagnosis running with cognitive impairment.
Natural Killer Cells from Allergic Donors Are Defective in Their Response to CCL18 Chemokine
Authors: Amniai Latiffa , Ple Coline , Barrier Mathieu , de Nadai Patricia , Marquillies Philippe , Vorng Han , Chenivesse Cécile , Tsicopoulos Anne , Duez Catherine
Published: April 2021

Natural killer (NK) cells were originally described as cytolytic effector cells, but since then have been recognized to possess regulatory functions on immune responses. Chemokines locate NK cells throughout the body in homeostatic and pathological conditions. They may also directly stimulate immune cells. CCL18 is a constitutive and inducible chemokine involved in allergic diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate CCL18’s effect on NK cells from allergic and nonallergic donors in terms of both chemotactic and immune effects. Results showed that CCL18 was able to induce migration of NK cells from nonallergic donors in a G-protein-dependent manner, suggesting the involvement of a classical chemokine receptor from the family of seven-transmembrane domain G-protein-coupled receptors. In contrast, NK cells from allergic patients were unresponsive. Similarly, CCL18 was able to induce NK cell cytotoxicity only in nonallergic subjects. Purified NK cells did not express CCR8, one of the receptors described to be involved in CCL18 functions. Finally, the defect in CCL18 response by NK cells from allergic patients was unrelated to a defect in CCL18 binding to NK cells. Overall, our results suggest that some NK cell functions may be defective in allergic diseases.
Tissue-Specific Accumulation and Isomerization of Valuable Phenylethanoid Glycosides from Plantago and Forsythia Plants
Authors: Zürn Moritz , Tóth Gergő , Ausbüttel Tim , Mucsi Zoltán , Horváti Kata , Bősze Szilvia , Sütöri-Diószegi Magdolna , Pályi Bernadett , Kis Zoltán , Noszál Béla , Boldizsár Imre
Published: April 2021

A comparative phytochemical study on the phenylethanoid glycoside (PhEG) composition of the underground organs of three Plantago species (P. lanceolata, P. major, and P. media) and that of the fruit wall and seed parts of Forsythia suspensa and F. europaea fruits was performed. The leaves of these Forsythia species and six cultivars of the hybrid F. × intermedia were also analyzed, demonstrating the tissue-specific accumulation and decomposition of PhEGs. Our analyses confirmed the significance of selected tissues as new and abundant sources of these valuable natural compounds. The optimized heat treatment of tissues containing high amounts of the PhEG plantamajoside (PM) or forsythoside A (FA), which was performed in distilled water, resulted in their characteristic isomerizations. In addition to PM and FA, high amounts of the isomerization products could also be isolated after heat treatment. The isomerization mechanisms were elucidated by molecular modeling, and the structures of PhEGs were identified by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) and high-resolution mass spectrometry (HR-MS) techniques, also confirming the possibility of discriminating regioisomeric PhEGs by tandem MS. The PhEGs showed no cytostatic activity in non-human primate Vero E6 cells, supporting their safe use as natural medicines and allowing their antiviral potency to be tested.
Thiosemicarbazide Derivatives Decrease the ATPase Activity of Staphylococcus aureus Topoisomerase IV, Inhibit Mycobacterial Growth, and Affect Replication in Mycobacterium smegmatis
Authors: Kowalczyk Aleksandra , Paneth Agata , Trojanowski Damian , Paneth Piotr , Zakrzewska-Czerwińska Jolanta , Stączek Paweł
Published: April 2021

Compounds targeting bacterial topoisomerases are of interest for the development of antibacterial agents. Our previous studies culminated in the synthesis and characterization of small-molecular weight thiosemicarbazides as the initial prototypes of a novel class of gyrase and topoisomerase IV inhibitors. To expand these findings with further details on the mode of action of the most potent compounds, enzymatic studies combined with a molecular docking approach were carried out, the results of which are presented herein. The biochemical assay for 1-(indol-2-oyl)-4-(4-nitrophenyl) thiosemicarbazide (4) and 4-benzoyl-1-(indol-2-oyl) thiosemicarbazide (7), showing strong inhibitory activity against Staphylococcus aureus topoisomerase IV, confirmed that these compounds reduce the ability of the ParE subunit to hydrolyze ATP rather than act by stabilizing the cleavage complex. Compound 7 showed better antibacterial activity than compound 4 against clinical strains of S. aureus and representatives of the Mycobacterium genus. In vivo studies using time-lapse microfluidic microscopy, which allowed for the monitoring of fluorescently labelled replisomes, revealed that compound 7 caused an extension of the replication process duration in Mycobacterium smegmatis, as well as the growth arrest of bacterial cells. Despite some similarities to the mechanism of action of novobiocin, these compounds show additional, unique properties, and can thus be considered a novel group of inhibitors of the ATPase activity of bacterial type IIA topoisomerases.
Comparative Transcriptomes of the Body Wall of Wild and Farmed Sea Cucumber Isostichopus badionotus
Authors: Martín-Hernández Roberto , Rodríguez-Canul Rossanna , Kantún-Moreno Nuvia , Olvera-Novoa Miguel A. , Medina-Contreras Oscar , Garikoitz-Legarda Cristobal , Triviño Juan Carlos , Zamora-Briseño Jesús Alejandro , May-Solis Víctor , Poot-Salazar Alicia , Pérez-Vega Juan Antonio , Gil-Zamorano Judit , Grant George , Dávalos Alberto , Olivera-Castillo Leticia
Published: April 2021

Overfishing of sea cucumber Isostichopus badionotus from Yucatan has led to a major population decline. They are being captured as an alternative to traditional species despite a paucity of information about their health-promoting properties. The transcriptome of the body wall of wild and farmed I. badionotus has now been studied for the first time by an RNA-Seq approach. The functional profile of wild I. badionotus was comparable with data in the literature for other regularly captured species. In contrast, the metabolism of first generation farmed I. badionotus was impaired. This had multiple possible causes including a sub-optimal growth environment and impaired nutrient utilization. Several key metabolic pathways that are important in effective handling and accretion of nutrients and energy, or clearance of harmful cellular metabolites, were disrupted or dysregulated. For instance, collagen mRNAs were greatly reduced and deposition of collagen proteins impaired. Wild I. badionotus is, therefore, a suitable alternative to other widely used species but, at present, the potential of farmed I. badionotus is unclear. The environmental or nutritional factors responsible for their impaired function in culture remain unknown, but the present data gives useful pointers to the underlying problems associated with their aquaculture.