bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gut–Liver Axis: How Do Gut Bacteria Influence the Liver?
Authors: Konturek Peter Christopher , Harsch Igor Alexander , Konturek Kathrin , Schink Monic , Konturek Thomas , Neurath Markus F. , Zopf Yurdaguel
Published: September 2018

Chronic liver diseases are a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Recently, gut dysbiosis was identified as an important factor in the pathogenesis of liver diseases. The relationship between gut microbiota and the liver is still not well understood; however, dysfunction of the gut mucosal barrier (“leaky gut”) and increased bacterial translocation into the liver via the gut–liver axis probably play crucial roles in liver disease development and progression. The liver is an important immunological organ, and, after exposure to gut-derived bacteria via portal circulation, it responds with activation of the innate and adaptive immune system, leading to hepatic injury. A better understanding of the pathophysiological links among gut dysbiosis, the integrity of the gut barrier, and the hepatic immune response to gut-derived factors is essential for the development of new therapies to treat chronic liver diseases.
A Comparative Study on the Dynamic Tensile Behavior of Nanostructured Bainitic and Quenched-Tempered Martensitic Steels
Authors: Zhou Wen , Wu Kaiming , Zhong Lei , Zhang Cong , Hou Tingpin , Misra Raja Devesh Kumar
Published: September 2018

In order to assess the dynamic tensile behavior of a newly developed three-step low-temperature-transformed bainitic microstructure, and a conventional one-step isothermal bainitic microstructure, and a quenched and tempered martensitic microstructure, a comparative research was conducted by using the dynamic tensile test. The results showed that more film-like retained austenite was obtained in the three-step low-temperature-transformed sample. The carbon content in the film-like retained austenite was found to be higher as compared to the blocky retained austenite. The dynamic tensile properties were all improved with an increase in strain rates (from 0.1 to 500 s−1). However, the three-step bainitic low-temperature-transformed sample showed the most remarkable dynamic tensile properties, including ultimate tensile strength and total elongation. This is attributed to a better transformation-induced plasticity effect that is exhibited by the higher stability of the film-like retained austenite. Therefore, the present study suggests that performing a three-step low-temperature bainitic transformation promotes grain refinement and the formation of film-like retained austenite and improves the dynamic tensile properties.
Experimental and Numerical Investigation on the Layering Configuration Effect to the Laminated Aluminium/Steel Panel Subjected to High Speed Impact Test
Authors: Rahman Najihah Abdul , Abdullah Shahrum , Abdullah Mohamad Faizal , Zamri Wan Fathul Hakim , Omar Mohd Zaidi , Sajuri Zainuddin
Published: September 2018

This paper presents the effect of laminated aluminium-steel panel with different configurations in a high-speed impact test. Layering aluminium plate with high strength steel has become an interest in reducing the overall density of armour vehicle body while improving the ballistic resistance. Different layering configurations differ in laminated panel performance. Two layering configurations of double-layered panel achieving 25% of existing panel weight reduction were tested using experiment and computational method to investigate their behaviours when impacted with 7.62-mm full metal jacket at velocity range of 800–850 m/s. The ballistic performance of each configuration plate in terms of ballistic limit velocity, penetration process and permanent deformation was quantified and considered. Laminated panel with aluminium as the front layer reduced the ballistic performance of existing panel to 50% and the other panel maintained its performance. Thus, the laminated panel with aluminium as the back layer can be used in designing a protective structure for armoured vehicle while maintaining the performance of the existing vehicle in achieving weight reduction.
The Use of a Water Soluble Flexible Substrate to Embed Electronics in Additively Manufactured Objects: From Tattoo to Water Transfer Printed Electronics
Authors: Le Borgne Brice , Jacques Emmanuel , Harnois Maxime
Published: September 2018

The integration of electronics into the process flow of the additive manufacturing of 3D objects is demonstrated using water soluble films as a temporary flexible substrate. Three process variants are detailed to evaluate their capabilities to meet the additive manufacturing requirements. One of them, called water transfer printing, shows the best ability to fabricate electronics onto 3D additively manufactured objects. Moreover, a curved capacitive touchpad hidden by color films is successfully transferred onto the 3D objects, showing a potential application of this technology to fabricate fully additively manufactured discrete or even hidden electronic devices.
Novel Hydroxy- and Epoxy-cis-Jasmone and Dihydrojasmone Derivatives Affect the Foraging Activity of the Peach Potato Aphid Myzus persicae (Sulzer) (Homoptera: Aphididae)
Authors: Paprocka Marlena , Gliszczyńska Anna , Dancewicz Katarzyna , Gabryś Beata
Published: September 2018

Jasmonates show great potential in sustainable agriculture due to their various roles in natural mechanisms of plant defense, and because they are non-toxic, non-mutagenic, and easily metabolized. The aim of the study was to explore structure–activity relationships of dihydrojasmone, cis-jasmone, and their derivatives at the plant–aphid interface. We focused on the behavioral responses of aphids, following the exogenous application of natural jasmonates and their derivatives to the host plants. Aphid probing behavior was examined using an electrical penetration graph technique (EPG). The chemoenzymatic transformation of cis-jasmone and the activity of two new derivatives are described. The application of cis-jasmone, dihydrojasmone, the hydroxyderivatives, epoxyderivatives, and alkyl-substituted δ-lactones hindered the foraging activity of Myzus persicae (Sulz.) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) during early stages of probing at the level of non-phloem tissues. The application of saturated bicyclic epoxy-δ-lactone enhanced plant acceptance by M. persicae. Jasmonate derivatives containing a hydroxy group, especially in correlation with a lactone ring, were more active than natural compounds and other derivatives studied. Jasmonates of the present study are worth considering as elements of sustainable aphid control as components of the “push–pull” strategy.
Combination of Sensory, Chromatographic, and Chemometrics Analysis of Volatile Organic Compounds for the Discrimination of Authentic and Unauthentic Harumanis Mangoes
Authors: Zakaria Siti Raihan , Saim Norashikin , Osman Rozita , Abdul Haiyee Zaibunnisa , Juahir Hafizan
Published: September 2018

This study analyzed the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) of three mango varieties (Harumanis, Tong Dam and Susu) for the discrimination of authentic Harumanis from other mangoes. The VOCs of these mangoes were extracted and analysed nondestructively using Head Space-Solid Phase Micro Extraction (HS-SPME) coupled to Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). Prior to the analytical method, two simple sensory analyses were carried out to assess the ability of the consumers to differentiate between the Harumanis and Tong Dam mangoes as well as their preferences towards these mangoes. On the other hand, chemometrics techniques, such as principal components analysis (PCA), hierarchical clustering analysis (HCA), and discriminant analysis (DA), were used to visualise grouping tendencies of the volatile compounds detected. These techniques were successful in identifying the grouping tendencies of the mango samples according to the presence of their respective volatile compounds, thus enabling the identification of the groups of substances responsible for the discrimination between the authentic and unauthentic Harumanis mangoes. In addition, three ocimene compounds, namely beta-ocimene, trans beta-ocimene, and allo-ocimene, can be considered as chemical markers of the Harumanis mango, as these compounds exist in all Harumanis mango, regardless the different sources of the mangoes obtained.
Sinomenine Protects Against Morphine Dependence through the NMDAR1/CAMKII/CREB Pathway: A Possible Role of Astrocyte-Derived Exosomes
Authors: Ou Jinying , Zhou Yuting , Li Chan , Chen Zhijie , Li Hancheng , Fang Miao , Zhu Chen , Huo Chuying , Yung Ken Kin-Lam , Li Jing , Luo Chaohua , Mo Zhixian
Published: September 2018

Sinomenine is a nonaddictive alkaloid used to prevent morphine dependence, even thoughits mechanism isnot fully understood. Astrocytes aggravate the pathological process in their neighboring cellsthrough exosomes in central nervous system diseases. However, the effect of sinomenine on astrocyte-derived exosomes for the amelioration of morphine dependence has not been reported yet. In this study, we found that sinomenine prevented the morphine-induced conditionedplace preference in mice. Sinomenine reduced the levels of cAMP and intracellular Ca2+ in morphine-treated SH-SY5Y cells. Moreover, sinomenine inhibited the expressions of p-NMDAR1/NMDAR1, p-CAMKII/CAMKII, and p-CREB/CREB in the hippocampusof morphine-dependent mice and SH-SY5Y cells. Furthermore, we found that sinomenine inhibitedthe morphine-induced activation of astrocytesin vivo and in vitro. Afterwards, exosomes were isolated from cultured primary astrocytes treated with phosphate buffer saline (PBS, ctl-exo), morphine (mor-exo), or morphine and sinomenine (Sino-exo). Subsequently, morphine-treated SH-SY5Y cells were treated with ctl-exo, mor-exo, and Sino-exo. Results showed that Sino-exo reduced the level of cAMP, intracellular Ca2+, and the expression of p-CAMKII/CAMKII and p-CREB/CREB in morphine-treated SH-SY5Y cells. In conclusion, we demonstrated that sinomenine exhibited protective effects against morphine dependencein vivo and in vitro through theNMDAR1/CAMKII/CREB pathway. Sinomenine-induced alterationof the function of astrocyte-derived exosomes may contribute to the antidependence effects of sinomenine in morphine dependence.
Expression of Bioactive Lunasin Peptide in Transgenic Rice Grains for the Application in Functional Food
Authors: Ren Guixing , Hao Yuqiong , Zhu Yingying , Shi Zhenxing , Zhao Gang
Published: September 2018

Lunasin, a bioactive peptide initially isolated from soybean, has anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activity. Due its great application value, lunasin seems to be a candidate gene in improving the nutritional value of crops. In this study, lunasin was inserted into the rice genome to evaluate whether it was feasible to express lunasin using the rice expression system and improve the bioactivity of protein in rice for our needs. We generatedlunasin-overexpressing rice lines, and chose three independent transgenic rice lines for further study. The lunasin content in trans-lunasin rice detected by UPLC-MS/MS was 1.01 × 10−3 g·kg−1 dry rice flour with grease removal in the lunasin extracts. The antioxidant efficacy of LET (lunasin-enriched fraction from trans-lunasin rice) and PEW (peptide-enriched fraction from wild type rice) was compared. Due to the presence of lunasin, LET showed higher (p < 0.05) antioxidant activity than PEW. LET exhibited high DPPH radical scavenging activity (IC50 value, 8 g·L−1), strong ABTS+ radical scavenging activity (IC50 value, 1.18 g·L−1), and great oxygen radical scavenging activity (170 μmol·L−1 Trolox equivalents when the concentration reached 4 g·L−1). Moreover, LET presented significantly higher (p < 0.05) anti-inflammatory activity on macrophage cells, and the NO production and the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, MCP1, and TNF-α) were significantly inhibited by LET. However, because of the low purity, LET showed weaker antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity when compared to the Lunasin standard. These results suggested that it is feasible to use the rice expression system to express the exogenous lunasin in rice, and lunasin-overexpressing rice seems to be a candidate resource for application in functional food. Rice rich in lunasin is beneficial for human health, and could be used as a functional food in the diets of cancer and obese patients in the future.
Crinipellins A and I, Two Diterpenoids from the Basidiomycete Fungus Crinipellis rhizomaticola, as Potential Natural Fungicides
Authors: Han Jae Woo , Oh Mira , Lee Yu Jeong , Choi Jaehyuk , Choi Gyung Ja , Kim Hun
Published: September 2018

In the course of screening for microbes with antifungal activity, we found that the culture filtrate of the IUM00035 isolate exhibited strong antifungal activity against Magnaporthe oryzae and Colletotrichum coccodes in planta. Based on the phylogenetic analysis with the ITS region, the IUM00035 isolate was identified as Crinipellis rhizomaticola. To identify antifungal compounds from the C. rhizomaticola IUM00035 isolate, the culture filtrate of the isolate was partitioned with ethyl acetate and n-butanol and, consequently, two active compounds were isolated from the ethyl acetate extract. The chemical structures of the isolated compounds were determined as crinipellin A (1) and a new crinipellin derivative, crinipellin I (2), by NMR spectral analyses and a comparison of their NMR and MS data with those reported in the literature. Crinipellin A (1) exhibited a wide range of antifungal activity in vitro against C. coccodes, M. oryzae, Botrytis cinerea, and Phytophthora infestans (MICs = 1, 8, 31, and 31 µg/mL, respectively). Furthermore, when plants were treated with crinipellin A (1) (500 µg/mL) prior to inoculation with fungal pathogens, crinipellin A (1) exhibited disease control values of 88%, 65%, and 60% compared with non-treatment control against tomato late blight, pepper anthracnose, and wheat leaf rust, respectively. In contrast to crinipellin A (1), crinipellin I (2) showed weak or no activity (MICs > 250 µg/mL). Taken together, our results show that the C. rhizomaticola IUM00035 isolate suppresses the development of plant fungal diseases, in part through the production of crinipellin A (1).
Deep Airway Inflammation and Respiratory Disorders in Nanocomposite Workers
Authors: Pelclova Daniela , Zdimal Vladimir , Komarc Martin , Vlckova Stepanka , Fenclova Zdenka , Ondracek Jakub , Schwarz Jaroslav , Kostejn Martin , Kacer Petr , Dvorackova Stepanka , Popov Alexey , Klusackova Pavlina , Zakharov Sergey , Bello Dhimiter
Published: September 2018

Thousands of researchers and workers worldwide are employed in nanocomposites manufacturing, yet little is known about their respiratory health. Aerosol exposures were characterized using real time and integrated instruments. Aerosol mass concentration ranged from 0.120 mg/m3 to 1.840 mg/m3 during nanocomposite machining processes; median particle number concentration ranged from 4.8 × 104 to 5.4 × 105 particles/cm3. The proportion of nanoparticles varied by process from 40 to 95%. Twenty employees, working in nanocomposite materials research were examined pre-shift and post-shift using spirometry and fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) in parallel with 21 controls. Pro-inflammatory leukotrienes (LT) type B4, C4, D4, and E4; tumor necrosis factor (TNF); interleukins; and anti-inflammatory lipoxins (LXA4 and LXB4) were analyzed in their exhaled breath condensate (EBC). Chronic bronchitis was present in 20% of researchers, but not in controls. A significant decrease in forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) and FEV1/forced vital capacity (FVC) was found in researchers post-shift (p ˂ 0.05). Post-shift EBC samples were higher for TNF (p ˂ 0.001), LTB4 (p ˂ 0.001), and LTE4 (p ˂ 0.01) compared with controls. Nanocomposites production was associated with LTB4 (p ˂ 0.001), LTE4 (p ˂ 0.05), and TNF (p ˂ 0.001), in addition to pre-shift LTD4 and LXB4 (both p ˂ 0.05). Spirometry documented minor, but significant, post-shift lung impairment. TNF and LTB4 were the most robust markers of biological effects. Proper ventilation and respiratory protection are required during nanocomposites processing.
Macronutrient Intake in Relation to Migraine and Non-Migraine Headaches
Authors: Andreeva Valentina A. , Szabo de Edelenyi Fabien , Druesne-Pecollo Nathalie , Touvier Mathilde , Hercberg Serge , Galan Pilar
Published: September 2018

We investigated the association of mean daily macronutrient intake with migraine and non-migraine headaches. This cross-sectional study included 8042 men and 23,728 women from the ongoing population-based NutriNet-Santé e-cohort. Headache status was assessed via an online self-report questionnaire (2013–2016). Migraine was defined using established criteria and dietary macronutrient intake was estimated via ≥3 24 h dietary records. Mean daily intake (g/day) of carbohydrates (simple, complex, and total), protein, and fat (saturated fatty acids, monounsaturated fatty acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and total) were the main exposure variables. Adjusted gender-specific analysis of variance (ANOVA) models were fit. Presence of migraines was noted in 9.2% of men (mean age = 54.3 ± 13.3 years) and 25.7% of women (mean age = 49.6 ± 12.8 years). In adjusted models, we observed (1) somewhat lower protein (p < 0.02) and higher total fat (p < 0.01) intake among male migraineurs compared with males without headaches and those with non-migraine headaches; (2) somewhat higher total fat (p < 0.0001) and total carbohydrate intake (p < 0.05) among female migraineurs compared with females without headaches and those with non-migraine headaches. The findings, which provide preliminary support for modest gender-specific differences in macronutrient intake by migraine status, merit confirmation in different population-based settings, as well as longitudinally, and could help to inform future dietary interventions in headache prevention.
Positive Effects of Tomato Paste on Vascular Function After a Fat Meal in Male Healthy Subjects
Authors: Dalbeni Andrea , Treggiari Davide , Tagetti Angela , Bevilaqua Michele , Bonafini Sara , Montagnana Martina , Scaturro Giuliana , Minuz Pietro , Fava Cristiano
Published: September 2018

Tomato consumption has been recently associated with a reduced incidence of cardiovascular disease (CVD). The aim of this study was to test whether a seven-day period of tomato paste purèe (tomato paste, TP) supplementation could improve some haemodynamic parameters in healthy volunteers before and after a standardized fat meal (FM). Methods and results: Nineteen healthy male volunteers participated in a randomized, single-blind (operator) crossover study. Participants maintained low fiber diets (LFD) during the study periods. They were randomized either to a LFD and TP arm (80 g of TP/day) for seven-days, or to a control arm (LFD-only) with a two-week washout period. Flow Mediated Dilatation and other morpho-functional vascular indices were measured by ultrasound. Stiffness Index and Reflection Index were estimated by digital photo-plethysmography. All these parameters were measured one h before and two and 3.5 h after the FM. The difference in Stiffness Index was increased in the LFD and TP + FM-arm, as compared to the LFD-only + FM arm at both two and 3.5 h points. After the FM, in both arms, at two h, we observed a reduction in the Reflection Index and an increase in heart rate. Interestingly, only in the LFD and TP + FM-arm, some haemodynamic changes were detectable at two h; notably, there was an increase in brachial artery diameter and a reduction in diastolic blood pressure (BP). Conclusions: TP has no effect on Flow Mediated Dilatation but acutely modifies some haemodynamic parameters triggered by FM, suggesting possible haemodynamic beneficial effects in people consuming tomatoes.
The Decreasing Trend in Dietary Glycaemic Index and Glycaemic Load in Australian Children and Adolescents between 1995 and 2012
Authors: Yeung Chris Ho Ching , Kusnadi Devina Tri Lestrai , Barclay Alan Winston , Brand-Miller Jennie Cecile , Louie Jimmy Chun Yu
Published: September 2018

This study aims to examine whether there were changes between 1995–2012 in the dietary glycaemic index (dGI) and glycaemic load (dGL) in Australian children (<16 years) according to three national surveys in 1995 (1995NS), 2007 (2007NS), and 2011–2012 (2012NS). Glycaemic index (GI) values of foods were assigned using published methodology. Plausible 24-h recall data from the 1995NS, 2007NS and 2012NS (weighted n = 2475, 4373 and 1691 respectively) were compared for differences in dGI and dGL, and the contribution to dGL from different foods using one-way ANOVA with Bonferroni post hoc comparisons and linear regression. Decreasing trends across surveys were found in dGI and dGL (p < 0.001). Between 1995 and 2012, dGI and dGL per Megajoule (MJ) dropped by 2% and 6% respectively. The per capita dGL contribution from breads and bread rolls, fruit and vegetable juices, sweetened beverages and potatoes showed strong decreasing trends (R2 > 0.7). Our findings suggest that dGI and dGL of Australian youths declined between 1995 to 2012, which may be due to increased awareness of the GI concept and healthy diet, widened food choices and immigrants with diverse dietary habits. This may lower the future risks of chronic degenerative diseases in Australian youths.
Dissociation of Fatty Liver and Insulin Resistance in I148M PNPLA3 Carriers: Differences in Diacylglycerol (DAG) FA18:1 Lipid Species as a Possible Explanation
Authors: Franko Andras , Merkel Dietrich , Kovarova Marketa , Hoene Miriam , Jaghutriz Benjamin A. , Heni Martin , Königsrainer Alfred , Papan Cyrus , Lehr Stefan , Häring Hans-Ulrich , Peter Andreas
Published: September 2018

Fatty liver is tightly associated with insulin resistance and the development of type 2 diabetes. I148M variant in patatin-like phospholipase domain-containing protein 3 (PNPLA3) gene is associated with high liver fat but normal insulin sensitivity. The underlying mechanism of the disassociation between high liver fat but normal insulin sensitivity remains obscure. We investigated the effect of I148M variant on hepatic lipidome of subjects with or without fatty liver, using the Lipidyzer method. Liver samples of four groups of subjects consisting of normal liver fat with wild-type PNPLA3 allele (group 1); normal liver fat with variant PNPLA3 allele (group 2); high liver fat with wild-type PNPLA3 allele (group 3); high liver fat with variant PNPLA3 allele (group 4); were analyzed. When high liver fat to normal liver fat groups were compared, wild-type carriers (group 3 vs. group 1) showed similar lipid changes compared to I148M PNPLA3 carriers (group 4 vs. group 2). On the other hand, in wild-type carriers, increased liver fat significantly elevated the proportion of specific DAGs (diacylglycerols), mostly DAG (FA18:1) which, however, remained unchanged in I148M PNPLA3 carriers. Since DAG (FA18:1) has been implicated in hepatic insulin resistance, the unaltered proportion of DAG (FA18:1) in I148M PNPLA3 carriers with fatty liver may explain the normal insulin sensitivity in these subjects.
Comparative Investigation of Thermal and Structural Behavior in Renewably Sourced Composite Films of Even-Even Nylons (610 and 1010) with Silk Fibroin
Authors: Callaway Kayla A. , Xue Ye , Altimari Vincent , Jiang Guoxiang , Hu Xiao
Published: September 2018

As the average life expectancy continues to increase, so does the need for resorbable materials designed to treat, augment, or replace components and functions of the body. Naturally occurring biopolymers such as silks are already attractive candidates due to natural abundance and high biocompatibility accompanied by physical properties which are easily modulated through blending with another polymer. In this paper, the authors report on the fabrication of biocomposite materials made from binary blends of Bombyx mori silk fibroin (SF) protein and renewably sourced low molecular weight nylon 610 and high molecular weight nylon 1010. Films were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Results of this study demonstrated that enhanced structural and thermal properties were achievable in composite films SF-N610/N1010 due to their chemical similarity and the possible formation of hydrogen bonds between nylon and silk molecular chains. This study provides useful insight into the sustainable design of functional composite materials for biomedical and green technologies.
Microstructure Evolution of Immiscible PP-PVA Blends Tuned by Polymer Ratio and Silica Nanoparticles
Authors: Yan Xiang , Cayla Aurélie , Devaux Eric , Salaün Fabien
Published: September 2018

Composites of polypropylene (PP) and water soluble poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) can become an environmentally friendly precursor in preparing porous material, and their biphasic morphology needs to be manipulated. In this work, PP-PVA extrudates were prepared with a twin-screw extruder, and different PP/PVA ratios were employed to manipulate the morphology of the blends. Afterwards, different silicas were imbedded within the blends to further regulate the biphasic microstructure. PVA continuity, as a vital parameter in obtaining porous material, was determined by selective extraction measurement, and PP-PVA biphasic morphology was characterized by scanning microscopy analyses (SEM). Rheological measurement was also performed to correlate the microstructure evolution of the blends. First, it was found that with the increment of PVA proportion, PVA continuity is raised gradually, and the microstructure of blends containing 40–50 wt % of PVA is approaching co-continuous. Second, the localization of silicas was predicted based on the wettability of silica and polymers, and it was also confirmed by TEM that different silicas showed selective distribution. It is inspiring that R972 nanoparticles were found mainly distributed at the interface, which gives a possibility in preparing a surface-modified porous material. The shape distribution and average size of PVA nodules were examined by analyzing the SEM images. It is indicated that silicas with different wettabilities play disparate roles in tuning the biphasic microstructures, leading to heterogeneous PVA continuity.
The Contribution of Terrestrial Laser Scanning to the Analysis of Cliff Slope Stability in Sugano (Central Italy)
Authors: Mazzanti Paolo , Schilirò Luca , Martino Salvatore , Antonielli Benedetta , Brizi Elisa , Brunetti Alessandro , Margottini Claudio , Scarascia Mugnozza Gabriele
Published: September 2018

In this work, we describe a comprehensive approach aimed at assessing the slope stability conditions of a tuff cliff located below the village of Sugano (Central Italy) starting from remote geomechanical analysis on high-resolution 3D point clouds collected by terrestrial laser scanner (TLS) surveys. Firstly, the identification of the main joint systems has been made through both manual and automatic analyses on the 3D slope model resulting from the surveys. Afterwards, the identified joint sets were considered to evaluate the slope stability conditions by attributing safety factor (SF) values to the typical rock blocks whose kinematic was proved as compatible with tests for toppling under two independent triggering conditions: hydrostatic water pressure within the joints and seismic action. The results from the remote investigation of the cliff slope provide geometrical information of the blocks more susceptible to instability and pointed out that limit equilibrium condition can be achieved for potential triggering scenarios in the whole outcropping slope.
Improved Detection of Tiny Macroalgae Patches in Korea Bay and Gyeonggi Bay by Modification of Floating Algae Index
Authors: Harun-Al-Rashid Ahmed , Yang Chan-Su
Published: September 2018

This work focuses on the detection of tiny macroalgae patches in the eastern parts of the Yellow Sea (YS) using high-resolution Landsat-8 images from 2014 to 2017. In the comparison between floating algae index (FAI) and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) better detection by FAI was observed, but many tiny patches still remained undetected. By applying a modification on the FAI around 12% to 27% increased and correct detection of macroalgae is achieved from 35 images compared to the original. Through this method many scattered tiny patches were detected in June or July in Korea Bay and Gyeonggi Bay. Though it was a small-scale phenomenon they occurred in the similar period of macroalgal bloom occurrence in the YS. Thus, by using this modified method we could detect macroalgae in the study areas around one month earlier than the previously used Geostationary Ocean Color Imager NDVI-based detection. Later, more macroalgae patches including smaller ones occupying increased areas were detected. Thus, it seems that those macroalgae started growing locally from tiny patches rather than being transported from the western parts of the YS. Therefore, this modified FAI could be used for the precise detection of macroalgae.
Economic Assessment of Fire Damage to Urban Forest in the Wildland–Urban Interface Using Planet Satellites Constellation Images
Authors: Michael Yaron , Lensky Itamar M. , Brenner Steve , Tchetchik Anat , Tessler Naama , Helman David
Published: September 2018

The wildland-urban interface (WUI)—the area where wildland vegetation and urban buildings intermix—is at a greater risk of fire occurrence because of extensive human activity in that area. Although satellite remote sensing has become a major tool for assessing fire damage in wildlands, it is unsuitable for WUI fire monitoring due to the low spatial resolution of the images from satellites that provide frequent information which is relevant for timely fire monitoring in WUI. Here, we take advantage of frequent (i.e., ca. daily), high-spatial-resolution (3 m) imagery acquired from a constellation of nano-satellites operated by Planet Labs (“Planet”) to assess fire damage to urban trees in the WUI of a Mediterranean city in Israel (Haifa). The fire occurred at the end of 2016, consuming ca. 17,000 of the trees (152 trees ha−1) within the near-by wildland and urban parts of the city. Three vegetation indices (GNDVI, NDVI and GCC) from Planet satellite images were used to derive a burn severity map for the WUI area after applying a subpixel discrimination method to distinguish between woody and herbaceous vegetation. The produced burn severity map was successfully validated with information acquired from an extensive field survey in the WUI burnt area (overall accuracy and kappa: 87% and 0.75, respectively). Planet’s vegetation indices were calibrated using in-field tree measurements to obtain high spatial resolution maps of burned trees and consumed woody biomass in the WUI. These were used in conjunction with an ecosystem services valuation model (i-Tree) to estimate spatially-distributed and total economic loss due to damage to urban trees caused by the fire. Results show that nearly half of the urban trees were moderately and severely burned (26% and 22%, respectively). The total damage to the urban forest was estimated at ca. 41 ± 10 M USD. We conclude that using the method developed in this study with high-spatial-resolution Planet images has a great potential for WUI fire economic assessment.
Dynamics of Permafrost Coasts of Baydaratskaya Bay (Kara Sea) Based on Multi-Temporal Remote Sensing Data
Authors: Novikova Anna , Belova Nataliya , Baranskaya Alisa , Aleksyutina Daria , Maslakov Alexey , Zelenin Egor , Shabanova Natalia , Ogorodov Stanislav
Published: September 2018

Arctic coasts composed of frozen deposits are extremely sensitive to climate change and human impact. They retreat with average rates of 1–2 m per year, depending on climatic and permafrost conditions. In recent decades, retreat rates have shown a tendency to increase. In this paper, we studied the coastal dynamics of two key sites (Ural and Yamal coasts) of Baydaratskaya Bay, Kara Sea, where a gas pipeline had been constructed. Based on multi-temporal aerial and satellite imagery, we identified coastal erosion rates at several time lapses, in natural conditions and under human impact, and discussed their temporal variability. In addition to planimetric (m/yr), we calculated volumetric (m3/m/yr) retreat rates of erosional coasts using ArcticDEM. We also estimated the influence of geomorphology, lithology, and permafrost structure of the coasts on spatial variations of their dynamics. Erosional coasts of the Ural key site retreat with higher mean rates (1.2 m/yr and 8.7 m3/m/yr) as compared to the Yamal key site (0.3 m/yr and 3.7 m3/m/yr) due to their exposure to higher open sea waves, more complex lithology, higher ice content and lower coastal bluffs. Since the 1960s, coastal retreat rates have been growing on both coasts of Baydaratskaya Bay; we relate this effect with Arctic climate warming. From the 1960s to 2005, such growth was moderate, while in 2005–2016 it became rapid, which may be explained by the enhanced wave and thermal action or by the onset of industrial development. The adjacent coastal segments, originally accumulative, remained relatively stable from the 1960s to 2005. After 2005, a considerable part of them began to retreat as a result of changing weather conditions and/or increasing human impact.
Peripheral Network Connectivity Analyses for the Real-Time Tracking of Coupled Bodies in Motion
Authors: Kalampratsidou Vilelmini , Torres Elizabeth B.
Published: September 2018

Dyadic interactions are ubiquitous in our lives, yet they are highly challenging to study. Many subtle aspects of coupled bodily dynamics continuously unfolding during such exchanges have not been empirically parameterized. As such, we have no formal statistical methods to describe the spontaneously self-emerging coordinating synergies within each actor’s body and across the dyad. Such cohesive motion patterns self-emerge and dissolve largely beneath the awareness of the actors and the observers. Consequently, hand coding methods may miss latent aspects of the phenomena. The present paper addresses this gap and provides new methods to quantify the moment-by-moment evolution of self-emerging cohesiveness during highly complex ballet routines. We use weighted directed graphs to represent the dyads as dynamically coupled networks unfolding in real-time, with activities captured by a grid of wearable sensors distributed across the dancers’ bodies. We introduce new visualization tools, signal parameterizations, and a statistical platform that integrates connectivity metrics with stochastic analyses to automatically detect coordination patterns and self-emerging cohesive coupling as they unfold in real-time. Potential applications of these new techniques are discussed in the context of personalized medicine, basic research, and the performing arts.
Design of a Novel Six-Axis Wrist Force Sensor
Authors: Hu Shanshan , Wang Huaiyang , Wang Yong , Liu Zhengshi
Published: September 2018

A novel elastic body design idea of six-axis wrist force sensor with a floating beam was raised based on the analysis of the robot six-axis wrist force sensor with a floating beam. The design ideas improve the sensor’s dynamic performance significantly, while not reducing its sensitivity. First, the design ideas were described in detail, which were analyzed by mechanical modeling and were verified by finite element analysis. Second, the static simulation analysis of the novel elastomer of sensor was carried out. According to the strain distribution performance, the position of the strain gauges pasted and the connection mode of the full-bridge circuits were decided, which can achieve theoretical decoupling. Finally, the comparison between the static and dynamic performance of the novel sensor and the original sensor with floating beams was done. The results show that the static and dynamic performance of the novel six-axis wrist sensor are all better than the original sensor.
RGB Colour Encoding Improvement for Three-Dimensional Shapes and Displacement Measurement Using the Integration of Fringe Projection and Digital Image Correlation
Authors: Felipe-Sesé Luis , Molina-Viedma Ángel Jesús , López-Alba Elías , Díaz Francisco A.
Published: September 2018

Three-dimensional digital image correlation (3D-DIC) has become the most popular full-field optical technique for measuring 3D shapes and displacements in experimental mechanics. The integration of fringe projection (FP) and two-dimensional digital image correlation (FP + DIC) has been recently established as an intelligent low-cost alternative to 3D-DIC, overcoming the drawbacks of a stereoscopic system. Its experimentation is based on the colour encoding of the characterized fringe and speckle patterns required for FP and DIC implementation, respectively. In the present work, innovations in experimentation using FP + DIC for more accurate results are presented. Specifically, they are based on the improvement of the colour pattern encoding. To achieve this, in this work, a multisensor camera and/or laser structural illumination were employed. Both alternatives are analysed and evaluated. Results show that improvements both in three-dimensional and in-plane displacement are obtained with the proposed alternatives. Nonetheless, multisensor high-speed cameras are uncommon, and laser structural illumination is established as an important improvement when low uncertainty is required for 2D-displacement measurement. Hence, the uncertainty has been demonstrated to be reduced by up to 50% compared with results obtained in previous experimental approaches of FP + DIC.
Integrated IMU with Faster R-CNN Aided Visual Measurements from IP Cameras for Indoor Positioning
Authors: Zhang Lin , Zhou Taoyun , Lian Baowang
Published: September 2018

Considering the radio-based indoor positioning system pertaining to signal degradation due to the environmental factors, and rising popularity of IP (Internet Protocol) cameras in cities, a novel fusion of inertial measurement units (IMUs) with external IP cameras to determine the positions of moving users in indoor environments is presented. This approach uses a fine-tuned Faster R-CNN (Region Convolutional Neural Network) to detect users in images captured by cameras, and acquires visual measurements including ranges and angles of users with respect to the cameras based on the proposed monocular vision relatively measuring (MVRM) method. The results are determined by integrating the positions predicted by each user’s inertial measurement unit (IMU) and visual measurements using an EKF (Extended Kalman Filter). The results experimentally show that the ranging accuracy is affected by both the detected bounding box’s by Faster R-CNN height errors and diverse measuring distances, however, the heading accuracy is solely interfered with bounding box’s horizontal biases. The indoor obstacles including stationary obstacles and a pedestrian in our tests more significantly decrease the accuracy of ranging than that of heading, and the effect of a pedestrian on the heading errors is greater than stationary obstacles on that. We implemented a positioning test for a single user and an external camera in five indoor scenarios to evaluate the performance. The robust fused IMU/MVRM solution significantly decreases the positioning errors and shows better performance in dense multipath scenarios compared with the pure MVRM solution and ultra-wideband (UWB) solution.
Nitrate Vulnerable Zones Revision in Poland—Assessment of Environmental Impact and Land Use Conflicts
Authors: Szalińska Ewa , Orlińska-Woźniak Paulina , Wilk Paweł
Published: September 2018

Despite concerted efforts through the European territory, the problems of nitrogen pollution released from agricultural sources have not been resolved yet. Therefore, infringement cases are still open against a few Member States, including Poland, based on fulfilment problems of commitments regarding the Nitrate Directive. As a result of the litigation process, Poland has completely changed its approach to nitrate vulnerable zones. Instead of just selected areas, the measured actions will be implemented throughout the whole Polish territory. Additionally, further restrictions concerning the fertilizer use calendar will be introduced in areas indicated as extremely cold or hot, based on the average temperature distribution (poles of cold, and heat). Such a change will be of key importance to farmers, whose protests are already audible throughout the country, and can be expected to intensify. To assess the impact of the introduced modifications a modelling approach has been adopted. The use of the Macromodel DNS/SWAT allowed for the development of baseline and variant scenarios incorporating details of stipulated changes in the fertilizer use for a pilot catchment (Słupia River). The results clearly indicate that the new restriction will have a substantial effect on the aquatic environment by altering the amount of released total nitrogen.
Dynamic Connectedness of International Crude Oil Prices: The Diebold–Yilmaz Approach
Authors: Xiao Xiaoyong , Huang Jing
Published: September 2018

Connectedness is the key to modern risk measurement and management. This study investigates the international connectedness of crude oil prices and explores its time-varying characteristics based on a connectedness measurement framework using daily international crude oil prices. The international connectedness of crude oil prices is investigated from three perspectives: total connectedness, total directional connectedness, and pairwise directional connectedness. We find that the total connectedness of crude oil prices is 67.3%. We also find that the crude oil prices of Tapes, Daqing, Dubai and Minas are highly affected by Brent and WTI (West Texas Intermediate) crude oil prices. Furthermore, WTI and Brent are the price makers of international crude oil prices, while Tapes, Daqing, Dubai and Minas are price takers. From the perspective of pairwise directional connectedness, we find that the degree of pairwise directional connectedness between Brent and WTI are high. Finally, the structure of international crude oil markets stays the same even after market shocks. The main contributions of this study are identification of dynamic connectedness and presentation of the network connectedness of international crude oil prices.
The Resilience Capabilities of Yumcha Restaurants in Shaping the Sustainability of Yumcha Culture
Authors: Dai Shanshan , Cui Qingming , Xu Honggang
Published: September 2018

This study investigates the sustainability of food heritage in the modern world. The city of Guangzhou in Guangdong province has quickly changed to become a large metropolis within 40 years after China’s opening policy. Using Guangzhou’s Yumcha heritage as the case, we propose that Yumcha restaurants’ resilience has enhanced Yumcha heritage sustainability, and their dynamic capabilities have had a positive influence on both Yumcha restaurants’ resilience and the sustainability of Yumcha heritage. The study focuses on (1) the influence of social–cultural changes on the sustainability of Yumcha culture, (2) the influence of restaurant dynamic capabilities on Yumcha heritage sustainability, (3) Yumcha restaurants’ resilience-mediating effect, and (4) the moderating effects of social-cultural changes. The findings contribute to our understanding from four aspects: (1) Social–cultural changes negatively impact on Yumcha heritage; (2) the dynamic capability of Yumcha restaurants has a direct positive impact on Yumcha heritage; (3) the dynamic capabilities of Yumcha restaurants and social–cultural changes enable Yumcha heritage to become more resilient and improve the sustainability of Yumcha heritage; and (4) social–cultural changes moderate the indirect effects of proactive behavior on Yumcha heritage sustainability via Yumcha restaurant resilience.
Geodesign Processes and Ecological Systems Thinking in a Coupled Human-Environment Context: An Integrated Framework for Landscape Architecture
Authors: Gu Yexuan , Deal Brian , Larsen Linda
Published: September 2018

Scholars from a variety of disciplines have been working to unravel the complexities of geodesign as an approach to tackling a host of problems. We argue that a mature understanding of geodesign requires a systemic perspective to organize the interconnections between ecological, social and economic conditions at multiple spatial and temporal scales. We reviewed definitions and perspectives of geodesign and key concepts of ecological systems thinking to develop a new framework for landscape architecture. We provide the state-of-the-art in geodesign within the context of systems thinking and coupled human-environmental resilience. We show that geodesign is capable to encourage public participation and interdisciplinary collaboration through its systemic planning processes and synergetic technologies. The thrust of geodesign-related research is the emerging paradigm of landscape-based sustainability. While landscape architecture is complex in many aspects, the integrated framework promotes our understanding about its social-ecological potential, spatial-temporal association and resilience of coupled human-environment systems. Based on the findings, we outline key contributions, implications, challenges and recommendations for future research.
Do Private Benefits of Control Affect Corporate Social Responsibility? Evidence from China
Authors: Liu Qiang , Ge Guoqing , Ning Chong , Tao Xiaobo , Sun Yongbo
Published: September 2018

In this study, we examined whether private benefits of control can influence corporate social responsibility performance. We used both separations between cash flow and control rights and the length of the longest control chain to measure private benefits of control. Consistent with the private benefits motive, we found that firms with greater divergence between cash-flow rights and control rights, with longer control chains, are associated with lower corporate social responsibility performance. Further, we found that earnings management and capital occupation by the controlling shareholder are the two effective channels through which private benefits of control affect corporate social responsibility. Additionally, this negative association is more pronounced for firms located in regions with low degree of law environment and with CEOs appointed by the largest shareholder. Additional robustness tests using alternative CSR measurements, and two-stage least squares (2SLS) regression support the main findings. This study highlights a new determination channel of private benefits of control and practically guides the introduction of corporate social responsibility activities in emerging markets.
The Impact of Immigrant Diversity on Wages. The Spanish Experience
Authors: Delgado Gómez-Flors María , Alguacil Maite
Published: September 2018

The massive waves of migration that have emerged as part of the recent globalization process have attracted increasing attention in the field of economic geography. Traditionally, empirical research on this issue has focused on the possible substitution effect between native and foreign workers in the labour market. However, this evaluation omits the potential positive spillovers derived from a greater cultural diversity related to immigration. The aim of this work is to fill this gap by analysing the impact that immigrant diversity has on wages in Spain. To do so, we built three different indexes that measure cultural diversity across the Spanish regions. We control for the problem of potential simultaneity between migration and wages using instrumental variable techniques. We also consider the role of the increasing entry of foreigners coming from developed economies and other local factors. The results confirm that a greater diversity of immigrants’ birthplaces is associated with higher wages for both natives and the total population. Moreover, our findings reveal the importance of skilled labour (national or foreign), to encourage workers’ productivity and to ensure sustainable economic development.