bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PERAN INTERAKSI SOSIAL TERHADAP POLA ASUH PERKEMBANGAN ANAK DI KELUARGA DALAM PANDANGAN ISLAM
Authors: Nisa Khoirun , Muhid Abdul
Published: August 2020

Family involvement in developing children's abilities and social behavior is very much needed through interaction as a medium of actualization. The role of parents and children will be the basis of influence on child development parenting. in social life a person needs to interact with other people and when interacting one finds the true nature of himself as a social creature who needs each other. The task of parents must continue to hone and educate their children so that they can always socialize and interact well This article aims to discuss how the role of social interaction on parenting child development in the family in Islamic view. because more or less parents ignore it busy with what is being done so there is no word of attention and indifference to children. And in essence, parents are the most important part as a benchmark for children's growth and development.
Evaluation of Glymphatic System Using Diffusion MR Technique in T2DM Cases
Authors: Yang Guangwei , Deng Nan , Liu Yi , Gu Yingjiang , Yao Xiang
Published: August 2020

Objective: We aimed to evaluate the activity of the human glymphatic system in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) using diffusion tensor image analysis along with the perivascular space (DTI-ALPS).

Methods: Diffusion tensor images were acquired to calculate the diffusivities in the direction of the x-axis (right-to-left; Dx), y-axis (anterior-to-posterior; Dy), and z-axis (inferior-to-superior; Dz) of the plane of the lateral ventricle body in 20 patients with type 2 diabetes and 10 people in a control group. We evaluated the diffusivity along with the perivascular spaces, as well as the projection fibers and association fibers, separately. The analysis along the perivascular space (ALPS-index) was defined as the mean (Dxpro, Dypro)/mean (Dypro, Dzasc), where the Dxpro and Dxasc were the Dx values in the projection and association fiber areas, respectively.

Results: There were significant differences in diffusivity along the projection fibers and the association fibers among the groups. The significant differences among the groups along the perivascular spaces, shown as the ALPS-index and medical history of T2DM, indicating lower water diffusivity along the perivascular space concerning type 2 diabetes severity, was also observed.

Conclusion: Lower diffusivity along the perivascular space on DTI-APLS can reflect impairment of the glymphatic system in T2DM. This study showed that the activity of the glymphatic system could be evaluated by diffusion tensor image analysis.
Graph Planarity by Replacing Cliques with Paths
Authors: Angelini Patrizio , Eades Peter , Hong Seok-Hee , Klein Karsten , Kobourov Stephen , Liotta Giuseppe , Navarra Alfredo , Tappini Alessandra
Published: August 2020

This paper introduces and studies the following beyond-planarity problem, which we call h-Clique2Path Planarity. Let G be a simple topological graph whose vertices are partitioned into subsets of size at most h, each inducing a clique. h-Clique2Path Planarity asks whether it is possible to obtain a planar subgraph of G by removing edges from each clique so that the subgraph induced by each subset is a path. We investigate the complexity of this problem in relation to k-planarity. In particular, we prove that h-Clique2Path Planarity is NP-complete even when h=4 and G is a simple 3-plane graph, while it can be solved in linear time when G is a simple 1-plane graph, for any value of h. Our results contribute to the growing fields of hybrid planarity and of graph drawing beyond planarity.
Deep Learning-Enabled Semantic Inference of Individual Building Damage Magnitude from Satellite Images
Authors: Wheeler Bradley J. , Karimi Hassan A.
Published: August 2020

Natural disasters are phenomena that can occur in any part of the world. They can cause massive amounts of destruction and leave entire cities in great need of assistance. The ability to quickly and accurately deliver aid to impacted areas is crucial toward not only saving time and money, but, most importantly, lives. We present a deep learning-based computer vision model to semantically infer the magnitude of damage to individual buildings after natural disasters using pre- and post-disaster satellite images. This model helps alleviate a major bottleneck in disaster management decision support by automating the analysis of the magnitude of damage to buildings post-disaster. In this paper, we will show our methods and results for how we were able to obtain a better performance than existing models, especially in moderate to significant magnitudes of damage, along with ablation studies to show our methods and results for the importance and impact of different training parameters in deep learning for satellite imagery. We were able to obtain an overall F1 score of 0.868 with our methods.
Coordinating Postanthesis Carbon and Nitrogen Metabolism of Hybrid Rice through Different Irrigation and Nitrogen Regimes
Authors: Sun Yongjian , Sun Yuanyuan , Yan Fengjun , Li Yue , Wu Yunxia , Guo Changchun , Ma Peng , Yang Guotao , Yang Zhiyuan , Ma Jun
Published: August 2020

We sought to explore the role of postanthesis carbon and nitrogen (C-N) metabolism of hybrid rice in increasing yield and nitrogen utilization efficiency (NUE). We used the 13C and 15N dual-isotope tracer method and physiological/biochemical analysis and established different irrigation and nitrogen fertilization (W-N) regimes to investigate the relationship of C-N metabolism characteristics, yield, and NUE. The results showed that W-N regimes had significant effects on postanthesis absorption and translocation of N and photosynthate, yield and NUE. Aerobic irrigation combined with the N fertilization regime 30% base, 30% tillering, 40% booting was the best W-N coupling regime for rice yield and NUE increase. The regime enhanced flag leaf photosynthesis rate and the activities of ribulose 1,5-diphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (RuBPCase), glutamine synthetase (GS), and other key enzymes of C-N metabolism, and improved the total accumulations of photoassimilates (0.97–21.57 mg 13C plant−1) and N (1.55–23.36 mg 15N plant−1), respectively. Correlation analysis showed that, under the W-N interaction, C-N metabolism enzymes promoted the positive synergistic effect between 13C and 15N accumulation in panicles (r = 0.825). In addition, the change in C/N ratio can be used as an indicator of the simultaneous improvement in yield and NUE in hybrid rice.
Genome Wide Identification, Characterization, and Expression Analysis of YABBY-Gene Family in WHEAT (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Buttar Zeeshan Ali , Yang Yuan , Sharif Rahat , Nan Wu Sheng , Xie Yanzhou , Wang Chengshe
Published: August 2020

The small YABBY plant-specific transcription factor has a prominent role in regulating plant growth and developmental activities. However, little information is available about YABBY gene family in Triticum aestivum L. Herein, we identified 21 TaYABBY genes in the Wheat genome database. Then, we performed the conserved motif and domain analysis of TaYABBY proteins. The phylogeny of the TaYABBY was further sub-divided into 6 subfamilies (YABBY1/YABBY3, YABB2, YABBY5, CRC and INO) based on the structural similarities and functional diversities. The GO (Gene ontology) analysis of TaYABBY proteins showed that they are involved in numerous developmental processes and showed response against environmental stresses. The analysis of all identified genes in RNA-seq data showed that they are expressed in different tissues of wheat. Differential expression patterns were observed in not only control samples but also in stressed samples such as biotic stress (i.e., Fusarium graminearum (F.g), septoria tritici (STB), Stripe rust (Sr) and Powdery mildew (Pm), and abiotic stress (i.e., drought, heat, combined drought and heat and phosphorus deficiency), especially at different grain development stages. All identified TaYABBY-genes were localized in the nucleus which implies their participation in the regulatory mechanisms of various biological and cellular processes. In light of the above-mentioned outcomes, it has been deduced that TaYABBY-genes in the wheat genome play an important role in mediating various development, growth, and resistance mechanism, which could provide significant clues for future functional studies.
Pressure–Volume Curve during Capnoperitoneum in Cats
Authors: Dorn Melissa , Becher-Deichsel Anja , Bockstahler Barbara , Peham Christian , Dupré Gilles
Published: August 2020

Laparoscopy is a growing field in veterinary medicine, although guidelines are lacking. The objective of this study was to evaluate the pressure–volume curve during capnoperitoneum in cats. A total of 59 female cats were scheduled for routine laparoscopy. Pressure and volume data were recorded and processed, and the yield point of the curve was calculated using a method based on a capacitor discharging function. For the remaining 40 cats, a linear-like pressure–volume curve was observed until a yield point with a mean cutoff pressure (COP) of 6.44 ± 1.7 mmHg (SD) (range, 2.72–13.00 mmHg) and a mean cutoff volume (COV) of 387 ± 144.35 mL (SD) (range, 178.84–968.43 mL) was reached. The mean mL/kg CO2 value in cats was 208 ± 34.69 mL/kg (range, 100.00–288.46 mL/kg). The COV correlated with COP and body weight but not with body condition score (BCS). COP correlated only with the COV. This study suggests that feline patients have a pressure–volume curve similar to that of canine patients, and the same pressure limit recommendations can be used for both species. After a yield point of 6.44 mmHg is reached, the increment in volume decreases exponentially as the intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) increases.
The Effects of Broiler Breeder Dietary Vitamin E and Egg Storage Time on the Quality of Eggs and Newly Hatched Chicks
Authors: Yang Jun , Ding Xuemei , Bai Shiping , Wang Jianping , Zeng Qiufeng , Peng Huanwei , Xuan Yue , Su Zuowei , Zhang Keying
Published: August 2020

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of broiler breeder dietary vitamin E and egg storage time on the egg characteristics, hatchability, and antioxidant status of the egg yolks and newly hatched chicks. A total of 512 71-week-old Ross 308 breeder hens were fed the same basic diets containing 6 or 100 mg/kg vitamin E for 12 weeks. During this time, a total of 1532, 1464, and 1316 eggs were independently collected at weeks 8, 10, and 12, respectively, and subsequently stored for 0 or 14 d before hatching. The outcomes from three trials showed that prolonged egg storage time (14 vs. 0 d) negatively affected (p < 0.05) the egg characteristics, hatchability traits, and the yolk total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) (p < 0.05). Chicks derived from the stored eggs exhibited higher malonaldehyde (MDA) and T-AOC in the serum and yolk sac (p < 0.05). Broiler breeder dietary vitamin E (100 vs. 6 mg/kg) increased (p < 0.05) the hatchability and the antioxidant status of the yolks as indicated by a higher α-tocopherol content and T-AOC and lower MDA level (p < 0.05). The supplementation of vitamin E also remarkably increased (p < 0.05) the total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) activity (yolk sac, weeks 8 and 12) and T-AOC (serum, weeks 8, 10, and 12; yolk sac, weeks 8 and 12) and decreased (p < 0.05) the MDA content of chicks (yolk sac, week 10; serum, week 12). Interactions (p < 0.05) were found between the broiler breeder dietary vitamin E and egg storage time on the hatchability and antioxidant status of chick tissues. Broiler breeder dietary vitamin E (100 vs. 6 mg/kg) increased (p < 0.05) the hatchability and the T-AOC in the serum and liver of chicks, and decreased (p < 0.05) the early embryonic mortality and the MDA content in the yolk sacs of chicks derived from eggs stored for 14 d but not for 0 d. In conclusion, prolonged egg storage time (14 vs. 0 d) increased the embryonic mortality, decreased the hatchability, and impaired the antioxidant status of egg yolks and newly hatched chicks, while the addition of broiler breeder dietary vitamin E (100 vs. 6 mg/kg) could partly relieve these adverse impacts induced by long-term egg storage.
Changes of Plasma Fatty Acids in Four Lipid Classes to Understand Energy Metabolism at Different Levels of Non-Esterified Fatty Acid (NEFA) in Dairy Cows
Authors: Tessari Rossella , Berlanda Michele , Morgante Massimo , Badon Tamara , Gianesella Matteo , Mazzotta Elisa , Contiero Barbara , Fiore Enrico
Published: August 2020

The transition period is a central moment in dairy cows breeding because metabolic disorders may occur in relation to a dramatic increase in energy demand. This research aimed to identify new biomarkers for the diagnosis of hyperketonemia in bovine in early lactation phase with different value of plasmatic non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA). The profile of plasma fatty acids (FAs) divided into four lipid classes was evaluated using thin layer chromatography and gas chromatographic techniques (TLC-GC). A group of 60 multiparous Holstein–Friesian dairy cows were recruited in the present study. Blood samples were collected from the coccygeal vein and NEFA and the β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) were evaluated. All animals were divided in 2 groups based on NEFA, NEFA0 group had as mean value 0.24 ± 0.12 mEq/L and NEFA1 group had as mean value 0.87 ± 0.23 mEq/L. Plasma FA concentrations were analyzed separately in free fatty acids, cholesterol esters, phospholipids and triglycerides. Six FAs demonstrated a predictive value in the hyperketonemic dairy cows. In the free fatty acid class, the predictive FAs were C14:0 (AUC = 0.77), C18:1 ω 9 (AUC = 0.72), C18:1 ω 7 (AUC = 0.70) and C18:3 ω 3 (AUC = 0.68). In the phospholipids class the predictive parameters were C12:0 (AUC = 0.78) and C8:0 (AUC = 0.73). In cholesterol, esters and triglycerides lipidic classes no FA had a predictive function.
An Innovative Concept for a Multivariate Plausibility Assessment of Simultaneously Recorded Data
Authors: Mensching André , Zschiesche Marleen , Hummel Jürgen , Schmitt Armin Otto , Grelet Clément , Sharifi Ahmad Reza
Published: August 2020

The aim of this work was to develop an innovative multivariate plausibility assessment (MPA) algorithm in order to differentiate between ‘physiologically normal’, ‘physiologically extreme’ and ‘implausible’ observations in simultaneously recorded data. The underlying concept is based on the fact that different measurable parameters are often physiologically linked. If physiologically extreme observations occur due to disease, incident or hormonal cycles, usually more than one measurable trait is affected. In contrast, extreme values of a single trait are most likely implausible if all other traits show values in a normal range. For demonstration purposes, the MPA was applied on a time series data set which was collected on 100 cows in 10 commercial dairy farms. Continuous measurements comprised climate data, intra-reticular pH and temperature, jaw movement and locomotion behavior. Non-continuous measurements included milk yield, milk components, milk mid-infrared spectra and blood parameters. After the application of the MPA, in particular the pH data showed the most implausible observations with approximately 5% of the measured values. The other traits showed implausible values up to 2.5%. The MPA showed the ability to improve the data quality for downstream analyses by detecting implausible observations and to discover physiologically extreme conditions even within complex data structures. At this stage, the MPA is not a fully developed and validated management tool, but rather corresponds to a basic concept for future works, which can be extended and modified as required.
Anti-Oxidative Effects of Human Adipose Stem Cell Conditioned Medium with Different Basal Medium during Mouse Embryo In Vitro Culture
Authors: Ra Kihae , Oh Hyun Ju , Kim Eun Young , Kang Sung Keun , Ra Jeong Chan , Kim Eui Hyun , Lee Byeong Chun
Published: August 2020

The quality of embryos produced by assisted reproductive techniques should be advanced by the improvement of in vitro culture conditions for successful implantation and pregnancy maintenance. We investigated the anti-oxidative effect of human adipose stem cell (ASC) conditioned medium with its optimal basal medium, Dulbecco′s modified Eagle′s medium (DMEM-CM), or keratinocyte serum-free medium (KSFM-CM) as supplements during in vitro culture (IVC) of in vitro fertilized mouse embryo. At first, preimplantation embryo development was evaluated in KSFM-CM and DMEM-CM supplemented cultures at various concentrations. The blastocyst (BL) and hatched BL formation rates were significantly increased in 5% DMEM-CM, while no difference was observed from KSFM-CM. Next, comparing the efficacy of KSFM-CM and DMEM-CM at the same concentration, DMEM-CM enhanced the developmental rate of 16 cells, morula, BL, and hatched BL. The expression level of reactive oxygen species decreased and that of glutathione increased in BL cultured with DMEM-CM, which confirms its anti-oxidative effect. Furthermore, apoptosis in BL cultured with DMEM-CM was reduced compared with that in KSFM-CM. This study demonstrated that the comparative effect of human ASC-CM made of two different basal media during mouse embryo IVC and anti-oxidative effect of 5% DMEM-CM was optimal to improve preimplantation embryo development.
Hesperidin and SARS-CoV-2: New Light on the Healthy Function of Citrus Fruits
Authors: Bellavite Paolo , Donzelli Alberto
Published: August 2020

Among the many approaches to Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) prevention, the possible role of nutrition has so far been rather underestimated. Foods are very rich in substances, with a potential beneficial effect on health, and some of these could have an antiviral action or be important in modulating the immune system and in defending cells from the oxidative stress associated with infection. This short review draws the attention on some components of citrus fruits, and especially of the orange (Citrus sinensis), well known for its vitamin and flavonoid content. Among the flavonoids, hesperidin has recently attracted the attention of researchers, because it binds to the key proteins of the Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Several computational methods, independently applied by different researchers, showed that hesperidin has a low binding energy, both with the coronavirus “spike” protein, and with the main protease that transforms the early proteins of the virus (pp1a and ppa1b) into the complex responsible for viral replication. The binding energy of hesperidin to these important components is lower than that of lopinavir, ritonavir, and indinavir, suggesting that it could perform an effective antiviral action. Furthermore, both hesperidin and ascorbic acid counteract the cell damaging effects of the oxygen free radicals triggered by virus infection and inflammation. There is discussion about the preventive efficacy of vitamin C, at the dose achievable by the diet, but recent reviews suggest that this substance can be useful in the case of strong immune system burden caused by viral disease. Computational methods and laboratory studies support the need to undertake apposite preclinical, epidemiological, and experimental studies on the potential benefits of citrus fruit components for the prevention of infectious diseases, including COVID-19.
ROS Generation in Microglia: Understanding Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Neurodegenerative Disease
Authors: Simpson Dominic S. A. , Oliver Peter L.
Published: August 2020

Neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease, are a global public health burden with poorly understood aetiology. Neuroinflammation and oxidative stress (OS) are undoubtedly hallmarks of neurodegeneration, contributing to disease progression. Protein aggregation and neuronal damage result in the activation of disease-associated microglia (DAM) via damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). DAM facilitate persistent inflammation and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. However, the molecular mechanisms linking DAM activation and OS have not been well-defined; thus targeting these cells for clinical benefit has not been possible. In microglia, ROS are generated primarily by NADPH oxidase 2 (NOX2) and activation of NOX2 in DAM is associated with DAMP signalling, inflammation and amyloid plaque deposition, especially in the cerebrovasculature. Additionally, ROS originating from both NOX and the mitochondria may act as second messengers to propagate immune activation; thus intracellular ROS signalling may underlie excessive inflammation and OS. Targeting key kinases in the inflammatory response could cease inflammation and promote tissue repair. Expression of antioxidant proteins in microglia, such as NADPH dehydrogenase 1 (NQO1), is promoted by transcription factor Nrf2, which functions to control inflammation and limit OS. Lipid droplet accumulating microglia (LDAM) may also represent a double-edged sword in neurodegenerative disease by sequestering peroxidised lipids in non-pathological ageing but becoming dysregulated and pro-inflammatory in disease. We suggest that future studies should focus on targeted manipulation of NOX in the microglia to understand the molecular mechanisms driving inflammatory-related NOX activation. Finally, we discuss recent evidence that therapeutic target identification should be unbiased and founded on relevant pathophysiological assays to facilitate the discovery of translatable antioxidant and anti-inflammatory therapeutics.
Experimental Study on Torsion Resistance of Foundation Ring Land-Based Wind Power Expanded Foundation Scale Model
Authors: Guo Yaohua , Zhang Puyang , Ding Hongyan , Le Conghuan
Published: August 2020

In this paper, an experimental torsion resistance-loading system for wind power extended foundation scale models is taken as the research object, and four 1:3 scale model specimens of the foundation ring are tested. The transmission mechanism of torque load in the extended foundation was analyzed, and the proportion of each part bearing the torque load was calculated. Test results showed that when the torque load was small, the torque load transmitted from the upper part was mainly borne by the sidewall adhesion force, as well as the top radial reinforcement. In contrast, the torque load was gradually borne by the anchor flange of the foundation ring in the case of a large torque load. At the middle and late stages of torque loading, the top radial reinforcement of the foundation shared about 20% of the torque load, while the bottom flange of the foundation ring shared about 80%. The torque load is most sensitive to changes in the size of the bottom flange but not sensitive to those in the embedded depth of the foundation ring or in the strength of the foundation concrete.
Path Planning and Real-Time Collision Avoidance Based on the Essential Visibility Graph
Authors: Blasi Luciano , D’Amato Egidio , Mattei Massimiliano , Notaro Immacolata
Published: August 2020

This paper deals with a novel procedure to generate optimum flight paths for multiple unmanned aircraft in the presence of obstacles and/or no-fly zones. A real-time collision avoidance algorithm solving the optimization problem as a minimum cost piecewise linear path search within the so-called Essential Visibility Graph (EVG) is first developed. Then, a re-planning procedure updating the EVG over a selected prediction time interval is proposed, accounting for the presence of multiple flying vehicles or movable obstacles. The use of Dubins curves allows obtaining smooth paths, compliant with flight mechanics constraints. In view of possible future applications in hybrid scenarios where both manned and unmanned aircraft share the airspace, visual flight rules compliant with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Annex II Right of Way were implemented. An extensive campaign of numerical simulations was carried out to test the effectiveness of the proposed technique by setting different operational scenarios of increasing complexity. Results show that the algorithm is always able to identify trajectories compliant with ICAO rules for avoiding collisions and assuring a minimum safety distance as well. Furthermore, the low computational burden suggests that the proposed procedure can be considered a promising approach for real-time applications.
An Efficient Local Search Heuristic for Earth Observation Satellite Integrated Scheduling
Authors: Chen Yuning , Lu Ji , He Renjie , Ou Junwei
Published: August 2020

Earth observation satellites (EOSs) are taking a large number of pictures with increasing resolution which produce massive image data. Satellite data transmission becomes the bottleneck part in the process of EOS resource management. In this paper, we study the earth observation satellite integrated scheduling problem (EOSIS) where the imaging activities and download activities are considered integratively. We propose an integer linear programming model to formulate the problem. Due to the NP-hardness of the problem, we propose an efficient local search heuristic (ELSH) to solve problems of large size. ELSH uses a dedicated local search method to guarantee algorithm performance and efficient constraint handling mechanisms to guarantee algorithm efficiency. Numerical experimental results show that the algorithm demonstrates excellent performance on a set of benchmark instances. The ELSH achieves optimal results for all small-size instances (with 50 targets, two satellites, and three ground stations), and is very robust for large instances with up to 2000 targets. Moreover, the proposed ELSH easily dominates the state-of-the-art algorithm.
The Vibration of a Transversely Cracked Rotor Supported by Anisotropic Journal Bearings with Speed-Dependent Characteristic
Authors: Wan Zhiguo , Wang Yu , Chen Binqiang , Dou Yihua , Wei Xinjuan
Published: August 2020

This paper presents the vibration of a transversely cracked rotor supported by anisotropic journal bearings, where the speed-dependent characteristic of bearing is considered. A 3D finite element model and the contact-based approach are employed for the shaft and crack. The governing differential equations of the whole cracked rotor-bearing system were obtained by synthesizing the equations of the cracked shaft, the breathing crack and the journal bearings. In order to solve the computational difficulties caused by the high dimensions of model, the free-interface complex component mode synthesis method (CMS) is employed to reduce the order of the model. On this basis, the eigenvalue and the steady-state forced response of the cracked rotor-bearing system are obtained by the Hill’s method. Finally, the effects of the anisotropic and speed-dependent characteristics of bearings on the vibration of the system are studied. Numerical results show that both the two characteristics can significantly affect the response of the system. The anisotropy in the bearing leads to the split of resonant peaks and influence the amplitudes of the peaks. The speed-dependent characteristic mainly affects the responses at the speeds close to the resonant regions, because the parametric excitation effect of the resonance region is greater than other speeds.
Brewer’s Spent Grains: Possibilities of Valorization, a Review
Authors: Chetrariu Ancuța , Dabija Adriana
Published: August 2020

This review was based on updated research on how to use brewer’s spent grains (BSG). The use of BSG was considered both in food, as an ingredient or using value-added components derived from brewer’s spent grain, or in non-food products such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, construction, or food packaging. BSG is a valuable source of individual components due to its high nutritional value and low cost that is worth exploiting more to reduce food waste but also to improve human health and the environment. From the bioeconomy point of view, biological resources are transformed into bioenergetically viable and economically valuable products. The pretreatment stage of BSG biomass plays an important role in the efficiency of the extraction process and the yield obtained. The pretreatments presented in this review are both conventional and modern extraction methods, such as solvent extractions or microwave-assisted extractions, ultrasonic-assisted extractions, etc.
Comparison of Entropy Methods for an Optimal Rain Gauge Network: A Case Study of Daegu and Gyeongbuk Area in South Korea
Authors: Kwon Taeyong , Lim Junghyun , Yoon Seongsim , Yoon Sanghoo
Published: August 2020

To reduce hydrological disasters, it is necessary to operate rain gauge stations at locations where the spatio-temporal characteristics of rainfall can be reflected. Entropy has been widely used to evaluate the designs and uncertainties associated with rain gauge networks. In this study, the optimal rain gauge network in the Daegu and Gyeongbuk area, which requires the efficient use of water resources due to low annual precipitation and severe drought damage, was determined using conditional and joint entropy, and the selected network was quantitatively evaluated using the root mean square error (RMSE). To consider spatial distribution, prediction errors were generated using kriging. Four estimators used in entropy calculations were compared, and weighted entropy was calculated by weighting the precipitation. The optimal number of rain gauge stations was determined by calculating the RMSE reduction and the reduction ratio according to the number of selected rain gauge stations. Our findings show that the results of conditional entropy were better than those of joint entropy. The optimal rain gauge stations showed a tendency wherein peripheral rain gauge stations were selected first, with central stations being added afterward.
Arable Weed Patterns According to Temperature and Latitude Gradient in Central and Southern Spain
Authors: Gandía María Luisa , Casanova Carlos , Sánchez Francisco Javier , Tenorio José Luís , Santín-Montanyá María Inés
Published: August 2020

(1) Background: In agro-ecosystems, the success of the crops has a strong connection to biodiversity in the landscape. In the face of climate change, it is important to understand the response to environmental variation of weed species by means of their distribution. In the last century, biodiversity has been impacted due to a variety of stresses related to climate change. Although the composition of vegetation tends to change at a slower rate than climate change, we hypothesize species present in weed communities are distributed in diverse patterns as a response to the climate. Therefore, the general aim of this paper is to investigate the effect of temperature, using latitude as an indicator, on the composition and distribution of weed communities in agro-ecosystems. (2) Methods: Weeds were monitored in georeferenced cereal fields which spanned south and central Spanish regions. The graphic representation according to latitude allowed us to identify groups of weeds and associate them to a temperature range. We classified weeds as generalist, regional, or local according to the range of distribution. (3) Results: The monitoring of species led to the classification of weeds as generalist, regional or local species according to latitude and associated temperature ranges. Three weed species that were present in all latitude/temperature regions, were classified as generalist (Linaria micrantha (Cav) Hoffmanns & Link, Sonchus oleraceous L., and Sysimbrium irium L.). The species were classified as regional or local when their presence was limited to restricted latitude/temperature ranges. One weed, Stellaria media (L.) Vill., was considered a local species and its distribution dynamics can be considered an indicator of temperature. (4) Conclusions: The novel methodology used in this study to assign weed distribution as an indicator of climatic conditions could be applied to evaluate climate gradients around the world.
Refinements to Data Acquired by 2-Dimensional Video Disdrometers
Authors: Larsen Michael L. , Blouin Christopher K.
Published: August 2020

The 2-Dimensional Video Disdrometer (2DVD) is a commonly used tool for exploring rain microphysics and for validating remotely sensed rain retrievals. Recent work has revealed a persistent anomaly in 2DVD data. Early investigations of this anomaly concluded that the resulting errors in rain measurement were modest, but the methods used to flag anomalous data were not optimized, and related considerations associated with the sample sensing area were not fully investigated. Here, we (i) refine the anomaly-detecting algorithm for increased sensitivity and reliability and (ii) develop a related algorithm for refining the estimate of sample sensing area for all detected drops, including those not directly impacted by the anomaly. Using these algorithms, we explore the corrected data to measure any resulting changes to estimates of bulk rainfall statistics from two separate 2DVDs deployed in South Carolina combining for approximately 10 total years of instrumental uptime. Analysis of this data set consisting of over 200 million drops shows that the error induced in estimated total rain accumulations using the manufacturer-reported area is larger than the error due to considerations related to the anomaly. The algorithms presented here imply that approximately 4.2% of detected drops are spurious and the mean reported effective sample area for drops believed to be correctly detected is overestimated by ~8.5%. Simultaneously accounting for all of these effects suggests that the total accumulated rainfall in the data record is approximately 1.1% larger than the raw data record suggests.
Cloudiness Information Services for Solar Energy Management in West Africa
Authors: Danso Derrick Kwadwo , Anquetin Sandrine , Diedhiou Arona , Adamou Rabani
Published: August 2020

In West Africa (WA), interest in solar energy development has risen in recent years with many planned and ongoing projects currently in the region. However, a major drawback to this development in the region is the intense cloud cover that reduces the incoming solar radiation when present and causes fluctuations in solar power production. Therefore, understanding the occurrence of clouds and their link to the surface solar radiation in the region is important for making plans to manage future solar energy production. In this study, we use the state-of-the-art European Centre for Medium-range Weather Forecasts ReAnalysis (ERA5) dataset to examine the occurrence and persistence of cloudy and clear-sky conditions in the region. Then, we investigate the effects of cloud cover on the quantity and variability of the incoming solar radiation. The cloud shortwave radiation attenuation (CRASW↓) is used to quantify the amount of incoming solar radiation that is lost due to clouds. The results showed that the attenuation of incoming solar radiation is stronger in all months over the southern part of WA near the Guinea Coast. Across the whole region, the maximum attenuation occurs in August, with a mean CRASW↓ of about 55% over southern WA and between 20% and 35% in the Sahelian region. Southern WA is characterized by a higher occurrence of persistent cloudy conditions, while the Sahel region and northern WA are associated with frequent clear-sky conditions. Nonetheless, continuous periods with extremely low surface solar radiation were found to be few over the whole region. The analysis also showed that the surface solar radiation received from November to April only varies marginally from one year to the other. However, there is a higher uncertainty during the core of the monsoon season (June to October) with regard to the quantity of incoming solar radiation. The results obtained show the need for robust management plans to ensure the long-term success of solar energy projects in the region.
The Role of Fe, Zn, and Cu in Pregnancy
Authors: Grzeszczak Konrad , Kwiatkowski Sebastian , Kosik-Bogacka Danuta
Published: August 2020

Iron (Fe), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn) are microelements essential for the proper functioning of living organisms. These elements participatein many processes, including cellular metabolism and antioxidant and anti-inflammatory defenses, and also influence enzyme activity, regulate gene expression, and take part in protein synthesis. Fe, Cu, and Zn have a significant impact on the health of pregnant women and in the development of the fetus, as well as on the health of the newborn. A proper concentration of these elements in the body of women during pregnancy reduces the risk of complications such as anemia, induced hypertension, low birth weight, preeclampsia, and postnatal complications. The interactions between Fe, Cu, and Zn influence their availability due to their similar physicochemical properties. This most often occurs during intestinal absorption, where metal ions compete for binding sites with transport compounds. Additionally, the relationships between these ions have a great influence on the course of reactions in the tissues, as well as on their excretion, which can be stimulated or delayed. This review aims to summarize reports on the influence of Fe, Cu, and Zn on the course of single and multiple pregnancies, and to discuss the interdependencies and mechanisms occurring between Fe, Cu, and Zn.
Different Effects of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation on Leg Muscle Glucose Uptake Asymmetry in Two Women with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Fietsam Alexandra , Workman Craig , Ponto Laura , Kamholz John , Rudroff Thorsten
Published: August 2020

Asymmetrical lower limb strength is a significant contributor to impaired walking abilities in people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) may be an effective technique to enhance cortical excitability and increase neural drive to more-affected lower limbs. A sham-controlled, randomized, cross-over design was employed. Two women with MS underwent two 20 min sessions of either 3 mA tDCS or Sham before 20 min of treadmill walking at a self-selected speed. During walking, the participants were injected with the glucose analogue, [18F] fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG). Participants were then imaged to examine glucose metabolism and uptake asymmetries in the legs. Standardized uptake values (SUVs) were compared between the legs and asymmetry indices were calculated. Subject 2 was considered physically active (self-reported participating in at least 30 min of moderate-intensity physical activity on at least three days of the week for the last three months), while Subject 1 was physically inactive. In Subject 1, there was a decrease in SUVs at the left knee flexors, left upper leg, left and right plantar flexors, and left and right lower legs and SUVs in the knee extensors and dorsiflexors were considered symmetric after tDCS compared to Sham. Subject 2 showed an increase in SUVs at the left and right upper legs, right plantar flexors, and right lower leg with no muscle group changing asymmetry status. This study demonstrates that tDCS may increase neural drive to leg muscles and decrease glucose uptake during walking in PwMS with low physical activity levels.
Language Experience Is Associated with Infants’ Visual Attention to Speakers
Authors: Atagi Natsuki , Johnson Scott P.
Published: August 2020

Early social-linguistic experience influences infants’ attention to faces but little is known about how infants attend to the faces of speakers engaging in conversation. Here, we examine how monolingual and bilingual infants attended to speakers during a conversation, and we tested for the possibility that infants’ visual attention may be modulated by familiarity with the language being spoken. We recorded eye movements in monolingual and bilingual 15-to-24-month-olds as they watched video clips of speakers using infant-directed speech while conversing in a familiar or unfamiliar language, with each other and to the infant. Overall, findings suggest that bilingual infants visually shift attention to a speaker prior to speech onset more when an unfamiliar, rather than a familiar, language is being spoken. However, this same effect was not found for monolingual infants. Thus, infants’ familiarity with the language being spoken, and perhaps their language experiences, may modulate infants’ visual attention to speakers.
A Novel Mutual Information Based Feature Set for Drivers’ Mental Workload Evaluation Using Machine Learning
Authors: Islam Mir Riyanul , Barua Shaibal , Ahmed Mobyen Uddin , Begum Shahina , Aricò Pietro , Borghini Gianluca , Di Flumeri Gianluca
Published: August 2020

Analysis of physiological signals, electroencephalography more specifically, is considered a very promising technique to obtain objective measures for mental workload evaluation, however, it requires a complex apparatus to record, and thus, with poor usability in monitoring in-vehicle drivers’ mental workload. This study proposes a methodology of constructing a novel mutual information-based feature set from the fusion of electroencephalography and vehicular signals acquired through a real driving experiment and deployed in evaluating drivers’ mental workload. Mutual information of electroencephalography and vehicular signals were used as the prime factor for the fusion of features. In order to assess the reliability of the developed feature set mental workload score prediction, classification and event classification tasks were performed using different machine learning models. Moreover, features extracted from electroencephalography were used to compare the performance. In the prediction of mental workload score, expert-defined scores were used as the target values. For classification tasks, true labels were set from contextual information of the experiment. An extensive evaluation of every prediction tasks was carried out using different validation methods. In predicting the mental workload score from the proposed feature set lowest mean absolute error was 0.09 and for classifying mental workload highest accuracy was 94%. According to the outcome of the study, it can be stated that the novel mutual information based features developed through the proposed approach can be employed to classify and monitor in-vehicle drivers’ mental workload.
Cyclin E2 Promotes Whole Genome Doubling in Breast Cancer
Authors: Lee Christine , Fernandez Kristine J. , Alexandrou Sarah , Sergio C. Marcelo , Deng Niantao , Rogers Samuel , Burgess Andrew , Caldon C. Elizabeth
Published: August 2020

Genome doubling is an underlying cause of cancer cell aneuploidy and genomic instability, but few drivers have been identified for this process. Due to their physiological roles in the genome reduplication of normal cells, we hypothesised that the oncogenes cyclins E1 and E2 may be drivers of genome doubling in cancer. We show that both cyclin E1 (CCNE1) and cyclin E2 (CCNE2) mRNA are significantly associated with high genome ploidy in breast cancers. By live cell imaging and flow cytometry, we show that cyclin E2 overexpression promotes aberrant mitosis without causing mitotic slippage, and it increases ploidy with negative feedback on the replication licensing protein, Cdt1. We demonstrate that cyclin E2 localises with core preRC (pre-replication complex) proteins (MCM2, MCM7) on the chromatin of cancer cells. Low CCNE2 is associated with improved overall survival in breast cancers, and we demonstrate that low cyclin E2 protects from excess genome rereplication. This occurs regardless of p53 status, consistent with the association of high cyclin E2 with genome doubling in both p53 null/mutant and p53 wildtype cancers. In contrast, while cyclin E1 can localise to the preRC, its downregulation does not prevent rereplication, and overexpression promotes polyploidy via mitotic slippage. Thus, in breast cancer, cyclin E2 has a strong association with genome doubling, and likely contributes to highly proliferative and genomically unstable breast cancers.
CD83, a Novel MAPK Signaling Pathway Interactor, Determines Ovarian Cancer Cell Fate
Authors: Batool Aalia , Liu Hao , Liu Yi-Xun , Chen Su-Ren
Published: August 2020

Ovarian cancer is a leading cause of death from gynecologic malignancies worldwide. Although CD83 is widely described as a solid marker for mature dendritic cells, emerging pieces of evidence indicate the expression of membrane protein CD83 by various tumor cells, including ovarian cancer cells. However, the potential role of CD83 in ovarian cancer cell properties and development remains absolutely unknown. By using human CD83 stable overexpression and knockdown sublines of several ovarian cancer cells, we observed that CD83 advanced the growth proliferation, colony formation ability, spheroid formation, and in vivo tumorigenicity of ovarian cancer cells; surprisingly, CD83 limited their migration and invasion potentials. Positive regulation of proliferation/stemness factors (e.g., cyclin-CDKs and KIT/CD44) but negative regulation of matrix metallopeptidases (e.g., MMP1 and 7) by CD83 were revealed by the integrated analysis of transcriptome and proteome. Furthermore, immunoprecipitation-mass spectrometry (IP-MS) and co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) first identified the association of CD83 with MAP3K7 (also known as TAK1) and MAP3K7-binding protein TAB1 on the cell membrane. Moreover, CD83 functions through the activation of MAP3K7-MEK1/2-ERK1/2 cascades to further regulate downstream FOXO1/p21/CDK2/CCNB1 and STAT3/DKK1 signaling pathways, thus activating proliferation and spheroid formation of ovarian cancer cells, respectively. Collectively, our findings define a CD83-MAPK pathway in the regulation of proliferation and stemness in ovarian cancer cells, with potential therapeutic applications in blocking their progression.
Oncological Outcomes of Metastasis-Directed Therapy in Oligorecurrent Prostate Cancer Patients Following Radical Prostatectomy
Authors: Devos Gaëtan , Berghen Charlien , Van Eecke Henri , Stichele Arthur Vander , Van Poppel Hendrik , Goffin Karolien , Mai Cindy , De Wever Liesbeth , Albersen Maarten , Everaerts Wouter , De Meerleer Gert , Joniau Steven
Published: August 2020

Several retrospective and a few prospective studies have shown that metastasis-directed therapy (MDT) could delay clinical progression and postpone the initiation of systemic treatment in oligorecurrent prostate cancer (PCa) patients. However, these endpoints are strongly influenced by variables such as concomitant use of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) and follow-up imaging protocols. The aim of this manuscript was to assess palliative ADT- and metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC)-free survival as long-term oncological outcomes in oligorecurrent PCa treated by MDT. We retrospectively identified consecutive post-prostatectomy oligorecurrent PCa patients treated by MDT (salvage lymphadenectomy, radiotherapy, or metastasectomy) at our tertiary referral center. Patients were eligible for inclusion if they developed recurrence following radical prostatectomy, had ≤5 metastatic lesions on imaging and had a serum testosterone >50 ng/dL or a testosterone suppression therapy-free interval of >2 years prior to the first MDT as an assumption of recovered serum testosterone (if no testosterone measurement available). Patients with castration-resistant or synchronous oligometastatic PCa at the time of first MDT were excluded. Repeated MDTs were allowed, as well as a period of concomitant ADT. Kaplan–Meier analyses were performed to assess palliative ADT-free and mCRPC-free survival. We identified 191 eligible patients who underwent MDT. Median follow-up from first MDT until last follow-up or death was 45 months (IQR 27–70; mean 51 months). Estimated median palliative-ADT free survival was 66 months (95% CI 58–164) and estimated median mCRPC-free survival was not reached (mean 117 months, 95% CI 103–132). In total, 314 MDTs were performed and 25 patients (13%) received ≥3 MDTs. This study demonstrated that (repeated) MDT is feasible and holds promise in terms of palliative ADT-free and mCRPC-free survival for patients with oligorecurrent PCa. However, these findings should be confirmed in prospective randomized controlled trials.