bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EU Emission Targets of 2050: Costs and CO2 Emissions Comparison of Three Different Solar and Heat Pump-Based Community-Level District Heating Systems in Nordic Conditions
Authors: Rehman Hassam ur , Hirvonen Janne , Jokisalo Juha , Kosonen Risto , Sirén Kai
Published: August 2020

In Finland, old apartments (1980s) contribute toward emissions. The objective is to reduce CO2 emissions to reach Europe’s targets of 2050. Three different centralized solar-based district heating systems integrated either with non-renovated or renovated old buildings in the community were simulated and compared against the reference city-level district heating system. The three proposed centralized systems were: Case 1: photovoltaic (PV) with a ground source heat pump (GSHP); Case 2: PV with an air-water heat pump (A2WHP); and Case 3: PV with A2WHPs, seasonal storage, and GSHPs. TRNSYS simulation software was used for dynamic simulation of the systems. Life cycle cost (LCC), CO2 emissions and purchased electricity were calculated and compared. The results show that the community-level district heating system (Case 3) outperformed Case 1, Case 2, and the city-level district heating. With non-renovated buildings, the relative emissions reduction was 83% when the reference energy system was replaced with Case 3 and the emissions reduction cost was 3.74 €/kg.CO2/yr. The relative emissions reduction was 91% when the buildings were deep renovated and integrated with Case 3 when compared to the reference system with non-renovated buildings and the emission reduction cost was 11.9 €/kg.CO2/yr. Such district heating systems could help in meeting Europe’s emissions target for 2050.
Available Energy in Cars’ Exhaust System for IoT Remote Exhaust Gas Sensor and Piezoelectric Harvesting
Authors: Madaro Francesco , Mehdipour Iman , Caricato Antonio , Guido Francesco , Rizzi Francesco , Carlucci Antonio Paolo , De Vittorio Massimo
Published: August 2020

The exhaust system of the light-duty diesel engine has been evaluated as a potential environment for a mechanical energy recovery system for powering an IoT (Internet of Things) remote sensor. Temperature, pressure, gas speed, mass flow rate have been measured in order to characterize the exhaust gas. At any engine point explored, thermal energy is by far the most dominant portion of the exhaust energy, followed by the pressure energy and lastly kinetic energy is the smallest fraction of the exhaust energy. A piezoelectric flexible device has been tested as a possible candidate as an energy harvester converting the kinetic energy of the exhaust gas flow, with a promising amount of electrical energy generated in the order of microjoules for an urban or extra-urban circuit.
Effect of the Backward Facing Step on a Transverse Jet in Supersonic Crossflow
Authors: Zhang Jincheng , Wang Zhenguo , Sun Mingbo , Wang Hongbo , Liu Chaoyang , Yu Jiangfei
Published: August 2020

A transverse jet in the supersonic crossflow is one of the most promising injection schemes in scramjet, where the control or enhancement of jet mixing is a critical issue. In this paper, the effect of the backward facing step on the characteristics of jet mixing was investigated by three-dimensional large eddy simulation (LES). The simulation in the flat plate configuration (step height of 0) was performed as the baseline case to verify the computation framework. The distribution of the velocity and pressure obtained by the LES agreed well with the experiment, which shows the reliability of the LES code. Then, two steps with a height of 1.0D and 1.58D (D is the injector diameter) were numerically compared to the non-step baseline case. The comparison of the three cases illustrates the effect of the large-scale recirculation region on the variable distribution, and shock and vortex structures in the flow field. In the windward region, the shear layers become thicker, and the convection velocity of the shear vortexes reduces. In the leeward region, the wake vortices almost disappear while the counterrotating vortex pairs (CVPs) expand in the spanwise direction. In the area upstream of the jet, the separation bubble works with the upstream large-scale recirculation zone to entrain the jet into the upstream near-wall zone. At last, a comparison of the overall mixing performance of the three cases revealed that the penetration depth and mixing efficiency increased with the step height increasing.
From “Coal to Gas” to “Coal to Biomass”: The Strategic Choice of Social Capital in China
Authors: Wang Qiang , Dogot Thomas , Yang Yueling , Jiao Jian , Shi Boyang , Yin Changbin
Published: August 2020

Currently, the Chinese government is promoting the transformation of clean energy in rural areas to reduce the consumption of coal to cope with the smog. It is mainly based on “coal to gas”. The development of biomass resources in agricultural areas is an alternative means of energy supply. In order to improve rural energy structure, we propose to upgrade “coal to gas” to “coal to biomass” derived from centralized biogas production (CBP) and straw-briquetting fuel (SBF). This study deals with the question of financing such projects. The public–private partnership (PPP) model is seen as a response that can mobilize social capital to finance investments in these new modes of production and energy supply in rural areas. Based on an analysis of the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) of the two projects considered above, an analytic hierarchy process (AHP) was carried out with the assistance of experts in order to clarify the strategic choices which are more suitable for investors. First, we built a PPP strategic-decision model. The decision model was divided into four strategies (pioneering strategy, struggling strategy, conservative strategy and striving strategy) and two development intensities (conservative and proactive). We used this method to construct a SWOT–AHP model of the PPP strategy for CBP and SBF based on the investigation from the experts. The strategic-decision model identified that a pioneering strategy based on opportunity type is promised for SBF, while a more aggressive type strategy in struggling strategy is essential for the CBP. In order to encourage investors to adopt a positive and optimistic attitude towards the two projects, the public authorities have a role of guidance to ensure the mobilization of the social capital necessary for the construction of the projects.
The Brinell Method for Determining Hardness of Wood Flooring Materials
Authors: Sydor Maciej , Pinkowski Grzegorz , Jasińska Anna
Published: August 2020

We hypothesize that the ability to recovery the depth of the indentation increases with increasing the hardness of the flooring material. The research was carried out for ten lignocellulosic flooring materials: merbau, oak, maple, red oak, laminated HDF (high-density fiberboard), innovative plywood, beech, pine, peasantry, iroko. The hardness was examined using the Brinell method, and additionally, the elastic indentation of the indenter was measured during the hardness test. On this basis, the permanent (plastic) and temporary (elastic) component of total deformation was determined. Different ability to recovery was found. The harder materials were the higher percentage of elastic indentation in total indentation depth. Moreover, it was found that the measurement of the indentation diameter in wood materials is characterized by high uncertainty and measurements based on the depth of the indentation are more unambiguous and of greater practical importance, especially when testing hard lignocellulosic flooring materials.
Investigating Food Packaging Elements from a Consumer’s Perspective
Authors: Konstantoglou Ageliki , Folinas Dimitris , Fotiadis Thomas
Published: August 2020

This study aims to identify and evaluate packaging elements in the food industry, taking into account various business areas/disciplines. The research was conducted with a sample of 1219 customers. An initial pool of 43 packaging items was developed, aiming to examine the elements that have a relationship with consumer behavior in buying food products. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was conducted on a random split-half sample of the data to examine the factor structure of these elements in the general population. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted in the holdout sample. The EFA of the packaging items resulted in seven factors: (1) Informational content, (2) Content protection and recognition, (3) Smart functioning, (4) Geometry, (5) Environmental friendliness (6) Endurance, and (7) Coloration. The CFA in the holdout sample supported this factor structure. The findings are informed by the consumer attitudes and predispositions towards packaging, thus having useful managerial applications.
Characterization of Phenolic Compounds Extracted from Cold Pressed Cactus (Opuntia ficus-indica L.) Seed Oil and the Effect of Roasting on Their Composition
Authors: Chbani Malika , Matthäus Bertrand , Charrouf Zoubida , El Monfalouti Hanae , Kartah Badr , Gharby Said , Willenberg Ina
Published: August 2020

Phenolic compounds extracted from cactus seed oil were identified for the first time by HPLC-ESI-qToF-MS and subsequently quantified by HPLC-DAD. A total of 7 compounds were identified, vanillin, syringaldehyde, and ferulaldehyde were found to be the most abundant ones. The effect of geographical origin and roasting process of cactus seeds was evaluated. Differences between different locations were not found, however the roasting process had a significant effect on the amount of phenolic compounds. The amount of syringaldehyde, p-coumaric acid, p-coumaric acid ethyl ester, and ferulaldehyde increased during the roasting process. Nevertheless, the concentration of vanillin was not influenced by roasting. It was demonstrated that the increase of those compounds was due to the thermal degradation of lignin from the seeds during the roasting process of seeds.
Probing the Functionality of Physically Modified Corn Flour as Clean Label Thickening Agent with a Multiscale Characterization
Authors: Carcelli Alessandro , Masuelli Erica , Diantom Agoura , Vittadini Elena , Carini Eleonora
Published: August 2020

A multilevel and multianalytical approach, combining both traditional and unconventional analytical tools, was used to characterize two physically modified (heated and heated-extruded) corn flours to be used as a “clean label” food ingredient. Physical treatments decreased the resistant starch content and increased the water holding capacity and water binding capacity, more extensively in the product subjected to heating-extrusion, as compared to an untreated control. Heated-extruded flour had the highest ability to form homogeneous systems in cold water while all modified flours produced homogeneous systems when mixed with hot water. Systems made with heated-extruded flour were “more rigid” than other samples at all levels of investigation as they were harder (macroscopic) and had higher storage modulus (mesoscopic), as well as lower proton 1H mobility (molecular). Overall, the results highlighted the ability of the multiscale method to give a thorough overview of the flour–water interactions and showed highest water affinity of heated-extruded flour. Heated-extruded flour was then tested in three real-food industrial applications (carrot soup, tomato sauce and a meat patty), where it was successfully implemented as a clean label thickening agent.
Hormonal Changes in High-Level Aerobic Male Athletes during a Sports Season
Authors: Alves Javier , Toro Víctor , Barrientos Gema , Bartolomé Ignacio , Muñoz Diego , Maynar Marcos
Published: August 2020

The aim of this study was to determine the possible changes in plasma of several hormones such as Luteinizing Hormone, Testosterone, Cortisol and Insulin in endurance runners during the sports season. Twenty-one high-level male endurance runners (22 ± 3.2 years, 1.77 ± 0.05 m) participated in the study. Basal plasma hormones were measured at four moments during the season (initial, 3, 6 and 9 months), and were analyzed using ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay). Testosterone and Luteinizing Hormone (LH) suffered very significant decreases (p < 0.01) at 3 months compared with the beginning and an increase (p < 0.05) at 6 and 9 months compared with 3 months. Insulin level was significantly lower (p < 0.05) at 3, 6 and 9 months compared with the initial test. Insulin and cortisol were associated inversely (r = 0.363; β = −0.577; p = 0.017) and positively (r = 0.202; β = 0.310; p = 0.043), respectively, with the amount of km per week performed by the runners. There was a significant association between km covered at a higher intensity than the anaerobic threshold and I (r = 0.580; β = −0.442; p = 0.000). Our findings indicate that testosterone, LH and insulin were more sensitive to changes in training volume and intensity than cortisol in high-level endurance runners. Basal testosterone and LH concentrations decrease in athletes who perform a high volume of aerobic km in situations of low energy availability.
A Systematic Review of Children’s Physical Activity Patterns: Concept, Operational Definitions, Instruments, Statistical Analyses, and Health Implications
Authors: Gomes Thayse Natacha , Katzmarzyk Peter T. , Pereira Sara , Thuany Mabliny , Standage Martyn , Maia José
Published: August 2020

Despite the widespread use of the expression “physical activity pattern” (PAP), there apparently is no general consensus regarding its definition. This systematic review aimed to examine available research focussing on (1) definitions of PAP, (2) instruments/techniques used to describe PAP, (3) statistical approaches used to analyse PAP, and (4) implications of PAP on children’s health. A systematic review of the available literature was done to identify studies published up to October 2019, and 76 studies were eligible. None of the studies presented a formal definition of PAP; a wide range of instruments were used to investigate children’s PAP, and most of the revised studies did not explicitly present a formal statistical model to define PAP. Twenty-four papers purported to examine associations between PAP and health indicators. The review highlights no consensus on a clear PAP definition whatever the instrument used to capture it, and we did not find any agreement regarding how best to analyse PAP. We suggest that PAP should be used when targeting the investigation of similarities/dissimilarities, as well as stabilities and/or changes in children’s PA at an intra-personal level. In sum, PAP should be used to best describe individual streams of behaviours, and not exclusively PA levels/intensities.
Comprehensive Fungal Community Analysis of House Dust Using Next-Generation Sequencing
Authors: Izawa Kazuki , Kubosaki Atsutaka , Kobayashi Naoki , Akiyama Yutaka , Yamazaki Akiko , Hashimoto Kazuhiro , Konuma Rumi , Kamata Yoichi , Hara-Kudo Yukiko , Hasegawa Kenichi , Ikaga Toshiharu , Watanabe Maiko
Published: August 2020

Fungal community analyses in homes have been attracting attention because fungi are now generally considered to be allergens. Currently, these analyses are generally conducted using the culture method, although fungal communities in households often contain species that are difficult to culture. In contrast, next-generation sequencing (NGS) represents a comprehensive, labor- and time-saving approach that can facilitate species identification. However, the reliability of the NGS method has not been compared to that of the culture method. In this study, in an attempt to demonstrate the reliability of this application, we used the NGS method to target the internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS1) in the fungal genome, conducted fungal community analyses for 18 house-dust samples and analyzed fungal community structures. The NGS method positively correlated with the culture method regarding the relative abundance of Aspergillus, Penicillium, Cladosporium and yeasts, which represent the major fungal components found in houses. Furthermore, several genera, such as Malassezia, could be sensitively detected. Our results imply that the reliability of the NGS method is comparable to that of the culture method and indicates that easily available databases may require modifications, including the removal of registrations that have not been sufficiently classified at the genus level.
Implicit Motor Imagery and the Lateral Occipitotemporal Cortex: Hints for Tailoring Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation
Authors: Conson Massimiliano , Cecere Roberta , Baiano Chiara , De Bellis Francesco , Forgione Gabriela , Zappullo Isa , Trojano Luigi
Published: August 2020

Background: Recent evidence has converged in showing that the lateral occipitotemporal cortex is over-recruited during implicit motor imagery in elderly and in patients with neurodegenerative disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease. These data suggest that when automatically imaging movements, individuals exploit neural resources in the visual areas to compensate for the decline in activating motor representations. Thus, the occipitotemporal cortex could represent a cortical target of non-invasive brain stimulation combined with cognitive training to enhance motor imagery performance. Here, we aimed at shedding light on the role of the left and right lateral occipitotemporal cortex in implicit motor imagery. Methods: We applied online, high-frequency, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) over the left and right lateral occipitotemporal cortex while healthy right-handers judged the laterality of hand images. Results: With respect to the sham condition, left hemisphere stimulation specifically reduced accuracy in judging the laterality of right-hand images. Instead, the hallmark of motor simulation, i.e., the biomechanical effect, was never influenced by rTMS. Conclusions: The lateral occipitotemporal cortex seems to be involved in mental representation of the dominant hand, at least in right-handers, but not in reactivating sensorimotor information during simulation. These findings provide useful hints for developing combined brain stimulation and behavioural trainings to improve motor imagery.
Is Low-Frequency Electrical Stimulation a Tool for Recovery after a Water Rescue? A Cross-Over Study with Lifeguards
Authors: Barcala-Furelos Roberto , González-Represas Alicia , Rey Ezequiel , Martínez-Rodríguez Alicia , Kalén Anton , Marques Olga , Rama Luís
Published: August 2020

This study aimed to evaluate the degree to which transcutaneous electrical stimulation (ES) enhanced recovery following a simulated water rescue. Twenty-six lifeguards participated in this study. The rescue consisted of swimming 100 m with fins and rescue-tube: 50 m swim approach and 50 m tow-in a simulated victim. Blood lactate clearance, rated perceived effort (RPE), and muscle contractile properties were evaluated at baseline, after the water rescue, and after ES or passive-recovery control condition (PR) protocol. Tensiomiography, RPE, and blood lactate basal levels indicated equivalence between both groups. There was no change in tensiomiography from pre to post-recovery and no difference between recovery protocols. Overall-RPE, legs-RPE and arms-RPE after ES (mean ± SD; 2.7 ± 1.53, 2.65 ± 1.66, and 2.30 ± 1.84, respectively) were moderately lower than after PR (3.57 ± 2.4, 3.71 ± 2.43, and 3.29 ± 1.79, respectively) (p = 0.016, p = 0.010, p = 0.028, respectively). There was a significantly lower blood lactate level after recovery in ES than in PR (mean ± SD; 4.77 ± 1.86 mmol·L−1 vs. 6.27 ± 3.69 mmol·L−1; p = 0.045). Low-frequency ES immediately after a water rescue is an effective recovery strategy to clear out blood lactate concentration.
Food Price Volatility and Asymmetries in Rural Areas of South Mediterranean Countries: A Copula-Based GARCH Model
Authors: Capitanio Fabian , Rivieccio Giorgia , Adinolfi Felice
Published: August 2020

Many discussions following the 2007/08 food price crisis have revolved around the magnitude of the negative impacts that it may have had on food security worldwide. In South-Eastern Mediterranean countries (SEMC), food security is strongly interrelated with several key economic and political issues. Many of these countries are becoming increasingly import-dependent, particularly on cereals, which are the essential raw material for human and animal food and feed. Due to both their economic system structure and consumption, the SEMC are responsible for a third of world cereals imports, whereas they account for only 5% of the world population. Given the set of constraints and this dependence on global markets, SEMC will be probably more exposed to severe swings in agricultural commodity prices in the coming years. In this view, this study examines the dependence structure among global food grain markets and Morocco and provides flexible models for dependency and the conditional volatility GARCH. A copula-based GARCH model has been carried out to estimate the marginal distributions of Morocco and world cereals commodity price changes. The results revealed that the joint co-movement between agricultural commodity price changes around the world and in Morocco, are generally considerable and there exists asymmetric tail dependence.
1-Chromonyl-5-Imidazolylpentadienone Demonstrates Anti-Cancer Action against TNBC and Exhibits Synergism with Paclitaxel
Authors: Modi Karan , Lawson Scott , Chen Guanglin , Tumuluri Deepthi , Rekhtman Inga , Kurtz Michael , Brailoiu G. Cristina , Chen Qiao-Hong , Lakshmikuttyamma Ashakumary
Published: August 2020

Curcumin has been well studied for its anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer action. Its potential as a therapy is limited due to its low bioavailability and rapid metabolism. To overcome these challenges, investigators are developing curcumin analogs, nanoparticle formulations, and combining curcumin with other compounds or dietary components. In the present study, we used a 1-chromonyl-5-imidazolylpentadienone named KY-20-22 that contains both the pharmacophore of curcumin and 1,4 benzopyrone (chromone) moiety typical for flavonoids, and also included specific moieties to enhance the bioavailability. When we tested the in vitro effect of KY-20-22 in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cell lines, we found that it decreased the cell survival and colony formation of MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 cells. An increase in mitochondrial reactive oxygen species was also observed in TNBC cells exposed to KY-20-22. Furthermore, KY-20-22 decreased epithelial–mesenchymal formation (EMT) as evidenced by the modulation of the EMT markers E-cadherin and N-cadherin. Based on the fact that KY-20-22 regulates interleukin-6, a cytokine involved in chemotherapy resistance, we combined it with paclitaxel and found that it synergistically induced anti-proliferative action in TNBC cells. The results from this study suggested that 1-chromonyl-5-imidazolylpentadienone KY-20-22 exhibited anti-cancer action in MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 cells. Future studies are required to evaluate the anti-cancer ability and bioavailability of KY-20-22 in the TNBC animal model.
The Role of MicroRNAs in Epidermal Barrier
Authors: Lee Ai-Young
Published: August 2020

MicroRNAs (miRNAs), which mostly cause target gene silencing via transcriptional repression and degradation of target mRNAs, regulate a plethora of cellular activities, such as cell growth, differentiation, development, and apoptosis. In the case of skin keratinocytes, the role of miRNA in epidermal barrier integrity has been identified. Based on the impact of key genetic and environmental factors on the integrity and maintenance of skin barrier, the association of miRNAs within epidermal cell differentiation and proliferation, cell–cell adhesion, and skin lipids is reviewed. The critical role of miRNAs in the epidermal barrier extends the use of miRNAs for control of relevant skin diseases such as atopic dermatitis, ichthyoses, and psoriasis via miRNA-based technologies. Most of the relevant miRNAs have been associated with keratinocyte differentiation and proliferation. Few studies have investigated the association of miRNAs with structural proteins of corneocytes and cornified envelopes, cell–cell adhesion, and skin lipids. Further studies investigating the association between regulatory and structural components of epidermal barrier and miRNAs are needed to elucidate the role of miRNAs in epidermal barrier integrity and their clinical implications.
Expression and Localization of BDNF/TrkB System in the Zebrafish Inner Ear
Authors: Germanà Antonino , Guerrera Maria Cristina , Laurà Rosaria , Levanti Maria , Aragona Marialuisa , Mhalhel Kamel , Germanà Germana , Montalbano Giuseppe , Abbate Francesco
Published: August 2020

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a member of the neurotrophin family, is involved in multiple and fundamental functions of the central and peripheral nervous systems including sensory organs. Despite recent advances in knowledge on the functional significance of BDNF and TrkB in the regulation of the acoustic system of mammals, the localization of BDNF/TrkB system in the inner ear of zebrafish during development, is not well known. Therefore, the goal of the present study is to analyze the age-dependent changes using RT-PCR, Western Blot and single and double immunofluorescence of the BDNF and its specific receptor in the zebrafish inner ear. The results showed the mRNA expression and the cell localization of BDNF and TrkB in the hair cells of the crista ampullaris and in the neuroepithelium of the utricle, saccule and macula lagena, analyzed at different ages. Our results demonstrate that the BDNF/TrkB system is present in the sensory cells of the inner ear, during whole life. Therefore, this system might play a key role in the development and maintenance of the hair cells in adults, suggesting that the zebrafish inner ear represents an interesting model to study the involvement of the neurotrophins in the biology of sensory cells
Dermal Fibroblasts Internalize Phosphatidylserine-Exposed Secretory Melanosome Clusters and Apoptotic Melanocytes
Authors: Ando Hideya , Yoshimoto Satoshi , Yoshida Moemi , Shimoda Nene , Tadokoro Ryosuke , Kohda Haruka , Ishikawa Mami , Nishikata Takahito , Katayama Bunpei , Ozawa Toshiyuki , Tsuruta Daisuke , Mizutani Ken-ichi , Yagi Masayuki , Ichihashi Masamitsu
Published: August 2020

Pigmentation in the dermis is known to be caused by melanophages, defined as melanosome-laden macrophages. In this study, we show that dermal fibroblasts also have an ability to uptake melanosomes and apoptotic melanocytes. We have previously demonstrated that normal human melanocytes constantly secrete melanosome clusters from various sites of their dendrites. After adding secreted melanosome clusters collected from the culture medium of melanocytes, time-lapse imaging showed that fibroblasts actively attached to the secreted melanosome clusters and incorporated them. Annexin V staining revealed that phosphatidylserine (PtdSer), which is known as an ‘eat-me’ signal that triggers the internalization of apoptotic cells by macrophages, is exposed on the surface of secreted melanosome clusters. Dermal fibroblasts were able to uptake secreted melanosome clusters as did macrophages, and those fibroblasts express TIM4, a receptor for PtdSer-mediated endocytosis. Further, co-cultures of fibroblasts and melanocytes demonstrated that dermal fibroblasts internalize PtdSer-exposed apoptotic melanocytes. These results suggest that not only macrophages, but also dermal fibroblasts contribute to the collection of potentially toxic substances in the dermis, such as secreted melanosome clusters and apoptotic melanocytes, that have been occasionally observed to drop down into the dermis from the epidermis.
Evaluation of a Two-Tier Screening Pathway for Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia in the New South Wales Newborn Screening Programme
Authors: Lai Fei , Srinivasan Shubha , Wiley Veronica
Published: August 2020

In Australia, all newborns born in New South Wales (NSW) and the Australia Capital Territory (ACT) have been offered screening for rare congenital conditions through the NSW Newborn Screening Programme since 1964. Following the development of the Australian Newborn Bloodspot Screening National Policy Framework, screening for congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) was included in May 2018. As part of the assessment for addition of CAH, the national working group recommended a two-tier screening protocol determining 17α-hydroxyprogesterone (17OHP) concentration by immunoassay followed by steroid profile. A total of 202,960 newborns were screened from the 1 May 2018 to the 30 April 2020. A threshold level of 17OHP from first tier immunoassay over 22 nmol/L and/or top 2% of the daily assay was further tested using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) steroid profiling for 17OHP (MS17OHP), androstenedione (A4) and cortisol. Samples with a ratio of (MS17OHP + A4)/cortisol > 2 and MS17OHP > 200 nmol/L were considered as presumptive positive. These newborns were referred for clinical review with a request for diagnostic testing and a confirmatory repeat dried blood spot (DBS). There were 10 newborns diagnosed with CAH, (9 newborns with salt wasting CAH). So far, no known false negatives have been notified, and the protocol has a sensitivity of 100%, specificity of 99.9% and a positive predictive value of 71.4%. All confirmed cases commenced treatment by day 11, with none reported as having an adrenal crisis by the start of treatment.
Expressional Localization and Functionally Identifying an RNA Editing Enzyme BmADARa of the Silkworm Bombyx mori
Authors: Ye Chongjun , Jiang Song , Gong Meixia , Min Qin , Fan Manli , Gao Junshan , Meng Yan
Published: August 2020

The most common type of RNA editing in metazoans is the deamination of adenosine into inosine (A-to-I) catalyzed by the adenosine deaminase acting on the RNA (ADAR) family of proteins. The deletion or dysfunction of ADAR enzymes in higher eukaryotes can affect the efficiency of substrate editing and cause neurological disorders. However, the information concerning A-to-I RNA editing and ADAR members in the silkworm, Bombyx mori (BmADAR), is limited. In this study, a first molecular comprehensive cloning and sequence analysis of BmADAR transcripts was presented. A complete open reading frame (ORF) (BmADARa) was obtained using RT-PCR and RACE and its expression pattern, subcellular localization and A-to-I RNA-editing function on the silkworm synaptotagmin I (BmSyt I) were investigated. Subcellular localization analysis observed that BmADARa was mainly localized in the nucleus. To further study the A-to-I RNA-editing function of BmADARa, BmSyt I-pIZ-EGFP was constructed and co-transfected with BmADARa-pIZ-EGFP into BmN cells. The result demonstrates that BmADARa can functionally edit the specific site of BmSyt I. Taken together, this study not only provides insight into the function of the first ADAR enzyme in B. mori, but also lays foundations for further exploration of the functional domain of BmADARa and its editing substrates and target sites.
Spatial Distribution of Pollinating Butterflies in Yunnan Province, Southwest China with Resource Conservation Implications
Authors: Zhang Hui-Hong , Wang Wen-Ling , Yu Qi , Xing Dong-Hui , Xu Zhen-Bang , Duan Kuang , Zhu Jian-Qing , Zhang Xin , Li Yong-Ping , Hu Shao-Ji
Published: August 2020

Pollinating butterflies are an important asset to agriculture, which still depends on wild resources. Yunnan Province in Southwest China is a region with typical montane agriculture, but this resource is poorly investigated. From literature reference and specimen examination, the present study identified 554 species of pollinating butterflies (50.8% of the total butterflies) from Yunnan, with family Nymphalidae possessing the least number of pollinators (80 species, 16.0%), while the remaining four families are pollinator-rich (>73%). Tropical lowlands and mountain-valley areas possess higher species richness than those with plain terrains. The species richness of pollinating butterflies in Yunnan does not simply decline with the increase of latitude, nor is significantly different between West and East Yunnan. Zonation of pollinating butterflies using the parsimony analysis of endemicity (PAE) identified nine distribution zones and ten subzones. Most areas of endemism (AOE) are found in lowlands or mountain-valley areas, complexity of terrains, climates, and vegetation types are believed to be the main causes of such endemicity. The potential pollinating service of these butterflies could be great to montane agriculture with expanding areas of cash crops and fruit horticulture. Conservation strategies for pollinating butterflies may consist of preserving habitats and establishing butterfly-friendly agriculture based on local traditions.
Predictors of Quitting Smoking in Cardiac Rehabilitation
Authors: Salman Ahmad , Doherty Patrick
Published: August 2020

Quitting smoking and participation in cardiac rehabilitation (CR) are effective strategies in reducing morbidity and mortality. However, little is known about the predictors of quitting smoking in those who attend CR. This study aimed to determine the sociodemographic and clinical factors associated with the likelihood of CR attendees who are quitting smoking. Data from the UK National Audit of Cardiac Rehabilitation (NACR) database, between April 2013 and March 2016, were used. Smoking status is categorized as smokers and quitters, assessed by patient self-report. The study used patient demographics, cardiovascular risk factors, comorbidities, and physical and psychosocial health measures. Binary logistic regression was performed to identify the predictors of quitting smoking among CR attendees. Of the 3290 patients who started CR and were entered into the NACR database, 2052 were continued smokers (mean age 58.59 ± 10.49 years, 73.6% men) and 1238 were quitters (mean age 57.63 ± 10.36 years, 75.8% men). The median duration of CR was 9 weeks. Compared to smokers, the quitters were younger, weighed more, were less anxious and depressed, and were more likely to be employed. Single patients had 0.60 times lower odds (95% CI 0.43 to 0.82) of quitting smoking than patients with partners, and low-risk patients had 1.71 times higher odds (95% CI 1.12 to 2.62) of quitting smoking than high-risk patients. Increasing number of comorbidities and depression scores were associated with decreasing likelihood of quitting. This study highlights the routine factors that determine smoking cessation outcomes, which could inform the delivery of CR to better help patients to quit smoking.
The Hypotension Period after Initiation of Appropriate Antimicrobial Administration Is Crucial for Survival of Bacteremia Patients Initially Experiencing Severe Sepsis and Septic Shock
Authors: Lee Ching-Chi , Yang Chao-Yung , Su Bo-An , Hsieh Chih-Chia , Hong Ming-Yuan , Lee Chung-Hsun , Ko Wen-Chien
Published: August 2020

Bacteremia is linked to substantial morbidity and medical costs. However, the association between the timing of achieving hemodynamic stability and clinical outcomes remains undetermined. Of the multicenter cohort consisted of 888 adults with community-onset bacteremia initially complicated with severe sepsis and septic shock in the emergency department (ED), a positive linear-by-linear association (γ = 0.839, p < 0.001) of the time-to-appropriate antibiotic (TtAa) and the hypotension period after appropriate antimicrobial therapy (AAT) was exhibited, and a positive trend of the hypotension period after AAT administration in the 15-day (γ = 0.957, p = 0.003) or 30-day crude (γ = 0.975, p = 0.001) mortality rate was evidenced. Moreover, for every hour delay of the TtAa, 30-day survival dropped an average of 0.8% (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 1.008; p < 0.001); and each additional hour of the hypotension period following AAT initiation notably resulted in with an average 1.1% increase (AOR, 1.011; p < 0.001) in the 30-day crude mortality rate, after adjusting all independent determinants of 30-day mortality recognized by the multivariate regression model. Conclusively, for bacteremia patients initially experiencing severe sepsis and septic shock, prompt AAT administration might shorten the hypotension period to achieve favourable prognoses.
Phytoplankton Distribution in Mar Menor Coastal Lagoon (SE Spain) during 2017
Authors: Soria Juan , Caniego Gema , Hernández-Sáez Nuria , Dominguez-Gomez Jose Antonio , Erena Manuel
Published: August 2020

The Mar Menor is a Spanish coastal lagoon of great ecological and economic interest. The agricultural and tourist activities developed in the surroundings of the lagoon, together with the modifications in its channels of connection with the Mediterranean Sea, have notably affected the quality of its waters, which is altering the natural balance of the ecosystem. In this work, an analysis of the density of phytoplankton present in the lagoon between the months of May to December 2017 was carried out. The results indicate a significant increase in phytoplankton density between 2500 and 67,300 cells/mL compared to previous data of 1981 (between 10 and 500 cells/mL). Concentration of Chlorophyll-a arrives to 13 µg/L and transparency of water reduces to 1.3 m according to Secchi disk depth. The presence of Chlorophyceae, Chrysophyceae, and nanoplanktonic Cryptophyceae stands out, while species diversity drops significantly. Observing the evolution of the lagoon, we can deduce that eutrophication process could increase. To avoid this, it would be necessary to implement control measures for the use of fertilizers in nearby growing areas and to study water treatment techniques to reduce nitrogen inputs so that phytoplankton densities can decrease.
Research on Risk Evaluation and Dynamic Escape Path Planning Algorithm Based on Real-Time Spread of Ship Comprehensive Fire
Authors: Ji Jian , Ma Zhihao , He Jiajun , Xu Yingjun , Liu Zhiqiang
Published: August 2020

As an independent building entity on the sea, the ship has a large number of internal electrical equipment and a compact space structure, which is prone to fire. This paper proposes a key technology of virtual dynamic escape of ships based on the fire spread prediction model for research. Taking the 63,500 DWT(Dead Weight Tonnage) tanker cabin as a research entity, the mathematical and physical models of ship fire simulation are established. Through the graphical analysis of the experimental data of the fire spread simulation, the temperature, CO concentration, and smoke concentration change rules under different working conditions at the fixed detection point position are obtained. Then, based on temperature, CO concentration and smoke concentration three impact factors, set up a comprehensive fire real-time situational risk evaluation index system. Using the MATLAB software, based on the principle of the fuzzy neural network fire ship’s integrated real-time situational risk evaluation model structure design and simulation test, obtained the corresponding training to comprehensive risk evaluation model of the network. Generate navigation grid according to the law of fire sprawl, and plan escape path. The traditional A* algorithm is improved, and an example is used to prove that the path-finding result after the improved algorithm is shorter than the path found by the traditional algorithm, which meets the path-finding requirements in a three-dimensional environment.
Nonlinear XFEM Modeling of Mode II Delamination in PPS/Glass Unidirectional Composites with Uncertain Fracture Properties
Authors: Motamedi Damoon , Takaffoli Mahdi , S. Milani Abbas
Published: August 2020

Initiation and propagation of cracks in composite materials can severely affect their global mechanical properties. Due to the lower strength of the interlaminar bonding compared to fibers and the matrix, delamination between plies is known to be one of the most common failure modes in these materials. It is therefore deemed necessary to gain more insight into this type of failure to guide the design of composite structures towards ensuring their robustness and reliability during service. In this work, delamination of interlaminar bonding in composite end-notched flexure (ENF) samples was modeled using a newly developed stochastic 3D extended finite element method (XFEM). The proposed numerical scheme, which also incorporates the cohesive zone model, was used to characterize the mode II delamination results obtained from ENF testing on polyphenylene sulfide (PPS)/glass unidirectional (UD) composites. The nonrepeatable material responses, often seen during fracture testing of UD composites, were well captured with the current numerical model, demonstrating its capacity to predict the stochastic fracture properties of composites under mode II loading conditions.
Polymer Brushes via Surface-Initiated Electrochemically Mediated ATRP: Role of a Sacrificial Initiator in Polymerization of Acrylates on Silicon Substrates
Authors: Flejszar Monika , Chmielarz Paweł , Wolski Karol , Grześ Gabriela , Zapotoczny Szczepan
Published: August 2020

Silicon wafers as semiconductors are essential components of integrated circuits in electronic devices. For this reason, modification of the silicon surface is an important factor in the manufacturing of new hybrid materials applied in micro- and nanoelectronics. Herein, copolymer brushes of hydrophilic poly(2-hydroxyethyl acrylate) (PHEA) and hydrophobic poly(tert-butyl acrylate) (PtBA) were grafted from silicon wafers via simplified electrochemically mediated atom transfer radical polymerization (seATRP) according to a surface-initiated approach. The syntheses of PHEA-b-PtBA copolymers were carried out with diminished catalytic complex concentration (successively 25 and 6 ppm of Cu). In order to optimize the reaction condition, the effect of the addition of a supporting electrolyte was investigated. A controlled increase in PHEA brush thickness was confirmed by atomic force microscopy (AFM). Various other parameters including contact angles and free surface energy (FSE) for the modified silicon wafer were presented. Furthermore, the effect of the presence of a sacrificial initiator in solution on the thickness of the grafted brushes was reported. Successfully fabricated inorganic–organic hybrid nanomaterials show potential application in biomedicine and microelectronics devices, e.g., biosensors.
Putting the Squeeze on Molecule-Based Magnets: Exploiting Pressure to Develop Magneto-Structural Correlations in Paramagnetic Coordination Compounds
Authors: Etcheverry-Berrios Alvaro , Parsons Simon , Kamenev Konstantin V. , Probert Michael R. , Moggach Stephen A. , Murrie Mark , Brechin Euan K.
Published: August 2020

The cornerstone of molecular magnetism is a detailed understanding of the relationship between structure and magnetic behaviour, i.e., the development of magneto-structural correlations. Traditionally, the synthetic chemist approaches this challenge by making multiple compounds that share a similar magnetic core but differ in peripheral ligation. Changes in the ligand framework induce changes in the bond angles and distances around the metal ions, which are manifested in changes to magnetic susceptibility and magnetisation data. This approach requires the synthesis of a series of different ligands and assumes that the chemical/electronic nature of the ligands and their coordination to the metal, the nature and number of counter ions and how they are positioned in the crystal lattice, and the molecular and crystallographic symmetry have no effect on the measured magnetic properties. In short, the assumption is that everything outwith the magnetic core is inconsequential, which is a huge oversimplification. The ideal scenario would be to have the same complex available in multiple structural conformations, and this is something that can be achieved through the application of external hydrostatic pressure, correlating structural changes observed through high-pressure single crystal X-ray crystallography with changes observed in high-pressure magnetometry, in tandem with high-pressure inelastic neutron scattering (INS), high-pressure electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy, and high-pressure absorption/emission/Raman spectroscopy. In this review, which summarises our work in this area over the last 15 years, we show that the application of pressure to molecule-based magnets can (reversibly) (1) lead to changes in bond angles, distances, and Jahn–Teller orientations; (2) break and form bonds; (3) induce polymerisation/depolymerisation; (4) enforce multiple phase transitions; (5) instigate piezochromism; (6) change the magnitude and sign of pairwise exchange interactions and magnetic anisotropy, and (7) lead to significant increases in magnetic ordering temperatures.
The Singular Value Expansion for Arbitrary Bounded Linear Operators
Authors: Crane Daniel K. , Gockenbach Mark S.
Published: August 2020

The singular value decomposition (SVD) is a basic tool for analyzing matrices. Regarding a general matrix as defining a linear operator and choosing appropriate orthonormal bases for the domain and co-domain allows the operator to be represented as multiplication by a diagonal matrix. It is well known that the SVD extends naturally to a compact linear operator mapping one Hilbert space to another; the resulting representation is known as the singular value expansion (SVE). It is less well known that a general bounded linear operator defined on Hilbert spaces also has a singular value expansion. This SVE allows a simple analysis of a variety of questions about the operator, such as whether it defines a well-posed linear operator equation and how to regularize the equation when it is not well posed.
Face-to-Face Exercises Performed by Instructors to Improve the Mental Health of Japanese in the Community—A Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Katayama Akihiko , Kanda Kanae , Hase Ayako , Miyatake Nobuyuki
Published: August 2020

Background and objectives: The purpose of this study is to clarify the effects on the mental health of face-to-face exercise performed by an instructor (lesson-style Group: Group L) and exercise using machines (program-style Group: Group P) by randomized control trial. Materials and Methods: Among 120 subjects, 117 subjects were allocated to two groups with stratified randomization by sex (Group P: 58 subjects; Group L: 59 subjects). A 60-min health exercise class was held once per week for 12 consecutive weeks. The measurement items were mental health as a primary evaluation item and self-efficacy as a secondary evaluation item. Physical fitness was also measured using a new physical fitness test used in Japan. The 12-item general health questionnaire (GHQ-12) was used to measure mental health and the general self-efficacy scale (GSES) was used to measure self-efficacy. Results: After the intervention, 102 subjects were analyzed. The changes in mental health evaluated by GHQ-12 scores were significantly lower in Group L −0.7 (95% CI, −1.2 to −0.3) than Group P −0.1 (95% CI, −0.4 to 0.2) (p = 0.03). The changes in self-efficacy evaluated by GSES scores were significantly higher in Group P 5.3 (95% CI, 3.1 to 7.5) than Group L 1.3 (95% CI, −0.4 to 3.1) (p < 0.01). Conclusions: Compared with program exercises mainly using machines, face-to-face exercises performed by instructors improved mental health.