bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pharmacokinetics and Tissue Levels of Pantoprazole in Neonatal Calves After Intravenous Administration
Authors: Olivarez Jeff D. , Kreuder Amanda J. , Tatarniuk Dane M. , Wulf Larry W. , Dembek Katarzyna A. , Mochel Jonathan P. , Smith Joe S.
Published: November 2020

Background: Neonatal calves are at risk of developing abomasal ulceration, but there is a lack of pharmacokinetic data for potential anti-ulcerative therapies, such as pantoprazole, in ruminant species.

Objective: The study objectives were to estimate plasma pharmacokinetic parameters for pantoprazole in neonatal dairy calves after intravenous (IV) administration. A secondary objective was to quantify the concentrations of pantoprazole in edible tissues after IV dosing.

Methods: Pantoprazole was administered to 9 neonatal Holstein calves at a dose of 1 mg/kg IV. Plasma samples were collected over 24 h and analyzed via HPLC-MS for determining pantoprazole concentrations. Pharmacokinetic parameters were derived via non-compartmental analysis. Tissue samples were collected at 1, 3, and 5 days after administration and analyzed via HPLC-MS.

Results: Following IV administration, plasma clearance, elimination half-life, and volume of distribution of pantoprazole were estimated at 4.46 mL/kg/min, 2.81 h, and 0.301 L/kg, respectively. The global extraction ratio was estimated at 0.053 ± 0.015. No pantoprazole was detected in the edible tissues 1, 3, or 5 days after administration. A metabolite, pantoprazole sulfone was detected in all the edible tissues 1 and 3 days after administration.

Conclusion: The reported plasma clearance for pantoprazole is less than that reported for alpacas but higher than reported in foals. The elimination half-life in calves appears to be longer than observed in foals and alpacas. While pantoprazole sulfone was detected in the tissues after IV administration, further research is needed as to the metabolism and potential tissue accumulation of other pantoprazole metabolites in calves. Future pharmacodynamic studies are necessary to determine the efficacy of pantoprazole on abomasal acid suppression in calves.
k-Means+++: Outliers-Resistant Clustering
Authors: Statman Adiel , Rozenberg Liat , Feldman Dan
Published: November 2020

The k-means problem is to compute a set of k centers (points) that minimizes the sum of squared distances to a given set of n points in a metric space. Arguably, the most common algorithm to solve it is k-means++ which is easy to implement and provides a provably small approximation error in time that is linear in n. We generalize k-means++ to support outliers in two sense (simultaneously): (i) nonmetric spaces, e.g., M-estimators, where the distance dist(p,x) between a point p and a center x is replaced by mindist(p,x),c for an appropriate constant c that may depend on the scale of the input. (ii) k-means clustering with m≥1 outliers, i.e., where the m farthest points from any given k centers are excluded from the total sum of distances. This is by using a simple reduction to the (k+m)-means clustering (with no outliers).
Endophytic Fungi of Tomato and Their Potential Applications for Crop Improvement
Authors: Sinno Martina , Ranesi Marta , Gioia Laura , d’Errico Giada , Woo Sheridan Lois
Published: November 2020

Endophytic fungi (EF) are increasingly gaining attention due to the numerous benefits many species can offer to the plant host, while reducing the application of chemicals in agriculture, thus providing advantages to human health and the environment. The growing demand for safer agrifood products and the challenge of increasing food production with a lower use of pesticides and fertilizers stimulates investigations on the use and understanding of EF. Other than direct consequences on the plant damaging agents, these microorganisms can also deliver bioactive metabolites with antimicrobial, insecticidal, or plant biostimulant activities. In tomato, EF are artificially introduced as biological control agents or naturally acquired from the surrounding environment. To date, the applications of EF to tomato has been generally limited to a restricted group of beneficial fungi. In this work, considerations are made to the effects and methods of introduction and detection of EF on tomato plants, consolidating in a review the main findings that regard pest and pathogen control, and improvement of plant performance. Moreover, a survey was undertaken of the naturally occurring constitutive endophytes present in this horticultural crop, with the aim to evaluate the potential role in the selection of new beneficial EF useful for tomato crop improvement.
Biodiversity of Weeds in Fields of Grain in South-Eastern Poland
Authors: Sawicka Barbara , Krochmal-Marczak Barbara , Barbaś Piotr , Pszczółkowski Piotr , Ćwintal Marek
Published: November 2020

Analysis of weed infestation of selected fields of grain (winter wheat, spring wheat, spring triticale) was conducted between 2013 and 2016 in five commercial farms in south-eastern Poland (49°52’ N, 21°46’ E) based on a quantitative and qualitative (quadrat) method and an agro-phytosociological method. The quadrat analysis was conducted prior to weeding procedures, and the agro-phytosociological analysis by grain harvest. The biodiversity of weed communities was measured with the Shannon and Simpson indices. The degree of weed infestation of grain species was significantly differentiated by weeding procedures carried out by farmers. The highest share of weeds in grain crops included dicot weeds (80.6–86.4% of all species, depending on location), and the remaining weed groups were a much smaller issue. The greatest weed infestation was found in spring triticale, and the smallest in winter wheat. The highest Shannon biodiversity index was recorded in the field of triticale, and the lowest in the field of winter wheat. The Simpson index points to the greatest biodiversity in fields of triticale and the smallest in fields of spring wheat. The conducted research will help categorize segetal flora characteristics for a given crop, determine its quantity and species composition, and evaluate biodiversity of weeds in fields of grain.
Changes in Acute Phase Proteins in Bitches after Laparoscopic, Midline, and Flank Ovariectomy Using the Same Method for Hemostasis
Authors: Del Romero Ayla , Cuervo Belén , Peláez Pau , Miguel Laura , Torres Marta , Yeste Marc , Rivera del Alamo Maria Montserrat , Rubio Camila P. , Rubio Mónica
Published: November 2020

Acute phase proteins (APP) are biomarkers of systemic inflammation, which allow monitoring the evolution of diseases, the response to treatments, and post-operative complications. Ovariectomy (OVE) is frequently performed in veterinary medicine and can be a useful model to evaluate surgical trauma and inflammation in the bitch. The objective was to investigate and compare the acute phase response (APR) after applying three different OVE techniques by measuring serum levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), haptoglobin (Hp), albumin (Alb), and paraoxonase-1 (PON-1). Forty-five intact bitches were included in the study, being randomly distributed into three groups: laparoscopic OVE (L), midline OVE (M), and flank OVE (F). Serum CRP, Hp, Alb, and PON-1 were measured before surgery, 1, 24, 72, and 168 h post-intervention. CRP levels increased significantly 24 h post-surgery in the M and F groups, but no significant variation was observed in the L group at any time of the study period. Hp was significantly higher in group L than in group F 72 h post-surgery. Alb and PON-1 showed no statistical difference among groups or among sampling periods. CRP response suggests that the use of laparoscopic procedures produce lower inflammation compared to open conventional approaches when performing OVE in the bitch.
Effects of the Application of Lactobacillus plantarum Inoculant and Potassium Sorbate on the Fermentation Quality, In Vitro Digestibility and Aerobic Stability of Total Mixed Ration Silage Based on Alfalfa Silage
Authors: Xie Yixiao , Xu Shengyang , Li Wenqi , Wang Musen , Wu Zhe , Bao Jinze , Jia Tingting , Yu Zhu
Published: November 2020

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the application of an inoculant and a preservative on the fermentation quality, in vitro digestibility, and aerobic stability of alfalfa silage-based fermented total mixed ration (TMR). The TMR was ensiled with (1) no additives (control), (2) Lactobacillus plantarum (LP), or (3) potassium sorbate (PS). The V-scores of all silages were higher than 80 points during the 30 days of ensiling. The addition of LP and PS had no effects on the in vitro parameters, such as in vitro digestibility and in vitro gas production (p > 0.05). LP-treated silage showed similar fermentation quality and comparable aerobic stability to the control (110 h). The LP only decreased the ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N) content (p < 0.05) during ensiling. The PS significantly increased the pH of TMR silages (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, the addition of PS improved the aerobic stability (>162 h) of TMR silage, indicated by the higher water-soluble carbohydrate content and lower NH3-N content in comparison with those in the control after aerobic exposure (p < 0.05). The improvement in fermentation quality is extremely small in terms of applying LP in TMR silage based on a large percentage of other silage ingredients. The PS is effective in conserving unpacked TMR silage and showed the potential to reduce the risk of ruminal acidosis in livestock.
Effectiveness and Acceptance of Multimodal Antibiotic Stewardship Program: Considering Progressive Implementation and Complementary Strategies
Authors: Bouchet Flavien , Le Moing Vincent , Dirand Delphine , Cros François , Lienard Alexi , Reynes Jacques , Giraudon Laurent , Morquin David
Published: November 2020

Multiple modes of interventions are available when implementing an antibiotic stewardship program (ASP), however, their complementarity has not yet been assessed. In a 938-bed hospital, we sequentially implemented four combined modes of interventions over one year, centralized by one infectious diseases specialist (IDS): (1) on-request infectious diseases specialist consulting service (IDSCS), (2) participation in intensive care unit meetings, (3) IDS intervention triggered by microbiological laboratory meetings, and (4) IDS intervention triggered by pharmacist alert. We assessed the complementarity of the different cumulative actions through quantitative and qualitative analysis of all interventions traced in the electronic medical record. We observed a quantitative and qualitative complementarity between interventions directly correlating to a decrease in antibiotic use. Quantitatively, the number of interventions has doubled after implementation of IDS intervention triggered by pharmacist alert. Qualitatively, these kinds of interventions led mainly to de-escalation or stopping of antibiotic therapy (63%) as opposed to on-request IDSCS (32%). An overall decrease of 14.6% in antibiotic use was observed (p = 0.03). Progressive implementation of the different interventions showed a concrete complementarity of these actions. Combined actions in ASPs could lead to a significant decrease in antibiotic use, especially regarding critical antibiotic prescriptions, while being well accepted by prescribers.
Natural Antioxidants: A Novel Therapeutic Approach to Autism Spectrum Disorders?
Authors: Pangrazzi Luca , Balasco Luigi , Bozzi Yuri
Published: November 2020

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a group of neurodevelopmental syndromes with both genetic and environmental origins. Several recent studies have shown that inflammation and oxidative stress may play a key role in supporting the pathogenesis and the severity of ASD. Thus, the administration of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant molecules may represent a promising strategy to counteract pathological behaviors in ASD patients. In the current review, results from recent literature showing how natural antioxidants may be beneficial in the context of ASD will be discussed. Interestingly, many antioxidant molecules available in nature show anti-inflammatory activity. Thus, after introducing ASD and the role of the vitamin E/vitamin C/glutathione network in scavenging intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the impairments observed with ASD, we discuss the concept of functional food and nutraceutical compounds. Furthermore, the effects of well-known nutraceutical compounds on ASD individuals and animal models of ASD are summarized. Finally, the importance of nutraceutical compounds as support therapy useful in reducing the symptoms in autistic people is discussed.
Oxidative Stress-Inducing Anticancer Therapies: Taking a Closer Look at Their Immunomodulating Effects
Authors: Van Loenhout Jinthe , Peeters Marc , Bogaerts Annemie , Smits Evelien , Deben Christophe
Published: November 2020

Cancer cells are characterized by higher levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) compared to normal cells as a result of an imbalance between oxidants and antioxidants. However, cancer cells maintain their redox balance due to their high antioxidant capacity. Recently, a high level of oxidative stress is considered a novel target for anticancer therapy. This can be induced by increasing exogenous ROS and/or inhibiting the endogenous protective antioxidant system. Additionally, the immune system has been shown to be a significant ally in the fight against cancer. Since ROS levels are important to modulate the antitumor immune response, it is essential to consider the effects of oxidative stress-inducing treatments on this response. In this review, we provide an overview of the mechanistic cellular responses of cancer cells towards exogenous and endogenous ROS-inducing treatments, as well as the indirect and direct antitumoral immune effects, which can be both immunostimulatory and/or immunosuppressive. For future perspectives, there is a clear need for comprehensive investigations of different oxidative stress-inducing treatment strategies and their specific immunomodulating effects, since the effects cannot be generalized over different treatment modalities. It is essential to elucidate all these underlying immune effects to make oxidative stress-inducing treatments effective anticancer therapy.
Effects of Two-Week Betaine Supplementation on Apoptosis, Oxidative Stress, and Aerobic Capacity after Exhaustive Endurance Exercise
Authors: Yang Ming-Ta , Lee Xiu-Xin , Huang Bo-Huei , Chien Li-Hui , Wang Chia-Chi , Chan Kuei-Hui
Published: November 2020

This study evaluated the effects of 2 weeks of betaine supplementation on apoptosis, oxidative stress, and aerobic capacity after exhaustive endurance exercise (EEE). A double-blind, crossover, and counterbalanced design was adopted, with 10 healthy male participants asked to consume betaine (1.25 g of betaine mixed with 300 mL of sports beverage, twice per day for 2 weeks) or placebo (300 mL of sports beverage). All participants performed a graded exercise test on a treadmill to determine the maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) before supplementation and then performed the EEE test at an intensity of 80% VO2max after 2 weeks of supplementation. The time to exhaustion, peak oxygen consumption, maximal heart rate, and average heart rate were recorded during the EEE test. Venous blood samples were drawn before, immediately after, and 3 h after the EEE test to assess apoptosis and the mitochondrial transmembrane potential (MTP) decline of lymphocytes as well as the concentrations of thiobarbituric acid reactive substance and protein carbonyl. The results indicated that lymphocyte apoptosis was significantly higher immediately after and 3 h after EEE than before exercise in participants in the placebo trial. However, lymphocyte apoptosis exhibited no significant differences among the three time points in participants in the betaine trial. Moreover, apoptosis in the betaine trial was significantly lower immediately after and 3 h after exercise compared with the placebo trial. No differences were noted for other variables. Thus, 2 weeks of betaine supplementation can effectively attenuate lymphocyte apoptosis, which is elevated by EEE. However, betaine supplementation exhibited no effects on MTP decline, oxidative stress, or aerobic capacity.
Differential Sex-Dependent Regulation of the Alveolar Macrophage miRNome of SP-A2 and co-ex (SP-A1/SP-A2) and Sex Differences Attenuation after 18 h of Ozone Exposure
Authors: Thorenoor Nithyananda , Phelps David S. , Floros Joanna
Published: November 2020

Background: Human SP-A1 and SP-A2, encoded by SFTPA1 and SFTPA2, and their genetic variants differentially impact alveolar macrophage (AM) functions and regulation, including the miRNome. We investigated whether miRNome differences previously observed between AM from SP-A2 and SP-A1/SP-A2 mice are due to continued qualitative differences or a delayed response of mice carrying a single gene. Methods: Human transgenic (hTG) mice, carrying SP-A2 or both SP-A genes, and SP-A-KO mice were exposed to filtered air (FA) or ozone (O3). AM miRNA levels, target gene expression, and pathways determined 18 h after O3 exposure. RESULTS: We found (a) differences in miRNome due to sex, SP-A genotype, and exposure; (b) miRNome of both sexes was largely downregulated by O3, and co-ex had fewer changed (≥2-fold) miRNAs than either group; (c) the number and direction of the expression of genes with significant changes in males and females in co-ex are almost the opposite of those in SP-A2; (d) the same pathways were found in the studied groups; and (e) O3 exposure attenuated sex differences with a higher number of genotype-dependent and genotype-independent miRNAs common in both sexes after O3 exposure. Conclusion: Qualitative differences between SP-A2 and co-ex persist 18 h post-O3, and O3 attenuates sex differences.
Identification of Dietary Phytochemicals Capable of Enhancing the Autophagy Flux in HeLa and Caco-2 Human Cell Lines
Authors: Ohnishi Kohta , Yano Satoshi , Fujimoto Moe , Sakai Maiko , Harumoto Erika , Furuichi Airi , Masuda Masashi , Ohminami Hirokazu , Yamanaka-Okumura Hisami , Hara Taichi , Taketani Yutaka
Published: November 2020

Autophagy is a major degradation system for intracellular macromolecules. Its decline with age or obesity is related to the onset and development of various intractable diseases. Although dietary phytochemicals are expected to enhance autophagy for preventive medicine, few studies have addressed their effects on the autophagy flux, which is the focus of the current study. Herein, 67 dietary phytochemicals were screened using a green fluorescent protein (GFP)-microtubule-associated protein light chain 3 (LC3)-red fluorescent protein (RFP)-LC3ΔG probe for the quantitative assessment of autophagic degradation. Among them, isorhamnetin, chrysoeriol, 2,2′,4′-trihydroxychalcone, and zerumbone enhanced the autophagy flux in HeLa cells. Meanwhile, analysis of the structure–activity relationships indicated that the 3′-methoxy-4′-hydroxy group on the B-ring in the flavone skeleton and an ortho-phenolic group on the chalcone B-ring were crucial for phytochemicals activities. These active compounds were also effective in colon carcinoma Caco-2 cells, and some of them increased the expression of p62 protein, a typical substrate of autophagic proteolysis, indicating that phytochemicals impact p62 levels in autophagy-dependent and/or -independent manners. In addition, these compounds were characterized by distinct modes of action. While isorhamnetin and chrysoeriol enhanced autophagy in an mTOR signaling-dependent manner, the actions of 2,2′,4′-trihydroxychalcone and zerumbone were independent of mTOR signaling. Hence, these dietary phytochemicals may prove effective as potential preventive or therapeutic strategies for lifestyle-related diseases.
Experimental and Numerical Evaluation of Toxic Pool Evaporation
Authors: Truchot Benjamin , Carrau André , Debuy Véronique , Penelon Thibauld , Bertrand Jean-Pierre
Published: November 2020

To date, safety distances to toxic pool evaporation as measured by known models have been quoted in hundreds of meters, without a deeper study of the time variation of the evaporation rate. In order to evaluate this specific aspect, we designed an experimental study. This study included small-scale tests with a 0.1 m2 evaporating pool, and medium-scale tests with 1 and 2 m2 evaporating pools. For both small- and medium-scale tests, the experimental vertical velocity profile was built to reproduce an atmospheric profile after applying the Froude scaling procedure. The scope of this study focused on ammonia pool evaporation, with each test lasting long enough to highlight the time evolution of the evaporation rate. While many other parameters may have strongly influenced the evaporation rate, the influence of the most classical parameters was tested, including pool concentration, wind velocity, and ambient turbulence. During these tests, the metrology was designed to enable the measuring of evaporation rates with great precision, but other important components were also measured. This series of tests clearly showed a strong variation of the evaporation rate in the first 30 minutes after the release—the evaporation rate dropped to 20% of its initial value after this 30-min period. It is therefore obvious that such reactions should strongly influence the toxic consequences of the vapor atmospheric dispersion. The known influence of other parameters was also confirmed—typically, the higher the pool concentration and/or wind velocity, the higher the evaporation rate. The surrounding turbulence effect was also taken into consideration and was proven to have a lower influence on the evaporation rate. In light of these experiments, we present below a physical model named EVAP-Tox used to estimate the time variation of the evaporation rate of an ammonia solution.
Smart Building Surveillance System as Shared Sensory System for Localization of AGVs
Authors: Oščádal Petr , Huczala Daniel , Bém Jan , Krys Václav , Bobovský Zdenko
Published: November 2020

The objective of this study is to extend the possibilities of robot localization in a known environment by using the pre-deployed infrastructure of a smart building. The proposed method demonstrates a concept of a Shared Sensory System for the automated guided vehicles (AGVs), when already existing camera hardware of a building can be utilized for position detection of marked devices. This approach extends surveillance cameras capabilities creating a general sensory system for localization of active (automated) or passive devices in a smart building. The application is presented using both simulations and experiments for a common corridor of a building. The advantages and disadvantages are stated. We analyze the impact of the captured frame’s resolution on the processing speed while also using multiple cameras to improve the accuracy of localization. The proposed methodology in which we use the surveillance cameras in a stand-alone way or in a support role for the AGVs to be localized in the environment has a huge potential utilization in the future smart buildings and cities. The available infrastructure is used to provide additional features for the building control unit, such as awareness of the position of the robots without the need to obtain this data directly from the robots, which would lower the cost of the robots themselves. On the other hand, the information about the location of a robot may be transferred bidirectionally between robots and the building control system to improve the overall safety and reliability of the system.
Electromagnetic Characteristic Analysis of Permanent Magnet Synchronous Machine Considering Current Waveform According to Static Rotor Eccentricity
Authors: Lee Hoon Ki , Bang Tae Kyoung , Woo Jong Hyeon , Shin Hyo Seob , Choi Jang Young
Published: November 2020

In this study, we performed an electromagnetic characteristic analysis of a permanent magnet synchronous machine considering the current waveform based on static rotor eccentricity. First, the characteristics of the back electromotive force were analyzed through the no-load analysis of the analysis model according to static rotor eccentricity. Next, a dynamic analysis was performed through mathematical modeling of a permanent magnet synchronous motor and PWM method. The input current during operation was derived through the dynamic analysis, and the core loss analysis was performed using derived input current. The core loss analysis was performed using the case where the fundamental wave current was applied and the input current derived through the dynamic analysis, and the results were compared.
Quantitative Analysis of Pig Iron from Steel Industry by Handheld Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy and Partial Least Square (PLS) Algorithm
Authors: Senesi Giorgio S. , De Pascale Olga , Bove Aldo , Marangoni Bruno S.
Published: November 2020

One of the main objectives in the steel production process is to obtain a blast furnace pig iron of good quality and at the lowest possible cost. In general, the quality of pig iron is evaluated on the basis of its chemical composition determined by X-ray fluorescence laboratory equipment. In the present study, the performance of a handheld (h) laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) instrument in the identification and the quantification of the relevant elements C, Mn, P, Si, and Ti in forty-six blast furnace pig iron samples was tested successfully. The application of two different models, i.e., univariate and multivariate partial least square (PLS) calibration and validation, to the whole LIBS data set showed that the latter approach was much more efficient than the former one in quantifying all elements considered, especially Si and Ti.
Vitamin D and the NLRP3 Inflammasome
Authors: Tunbridge Matthew , França Gois Pedro Henrique
Published: November 2020

Vitamin D (VD) is a steroid hormone classically known for its key role in maintaining calcium homeostasis in the body. VD also has important immunomodulatory functions. This review explores evidence for a role of VD in attenuating the activation of the nucleotide-binding domain-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome. Dysregulated and inappropriate NLRP3 inflammasome activation occurs in a range of human diseases, including autoinflammatory disorders, metabolic disorders, and infections. VD appears to mediate its effects by binding of the VD receptor (VDR) to the sensor protein NLRP3, inhibiting deubiquitination and downstream inflammasome assembly. Some early clinical evidence suggests improved outcomes in inflammasome-mediated disorders when VD-deficient patients are treated with supplementation therapy.
Biomedical Application of Cyclodextrin Polymers Cross-Linked via Dianhydrides of Carboxylic Acids
Authors: Ciesielska Aleksandra , Ciesielski Wojciech , Girek Beata , Girek Tomasz , Koziel Kinga , Kulawik Damian , Lagiewka Jakub
Published: November 2020

Cyclodextrin-based nanosponges (CD-NS) are a novel class of polymers cross-linked with a three-dimensional network and can be obtained from cyclodextrins (CD) and pyromellitic dianhydride. Their properties, such as their ability to form an inclusion complex with drugs, can be used in biomedical science, as nanosponges influence stability, toxicity, selectivity, and controlled release. Most pharmaceutical research use CD-NS for the delivery of drugs in cancer treatment. Application of molecular targeting techniques result in increased selectivity of CD-NS; for example, the addition of disulfide bridges to the polymer structure makes the nanosponge sensitive to the presence of glutathione, as it can reduce such disulfide bonds to thiol moieties. Other delivery applications include dermal transport of pain killers or photosensitizers and delivery of oxygen to heart cells. This gives rise to the opportunity to transition to medical scaffolds, but more, in modern times, to create an ultrasensitive biosensor, which employs the techniques of surface-modified nanoparticles and molecularly imprinted polymers (MIP). The following review focuses on the biomedical research of cyclodextrin polymers cross-linked via dianhydrides of carboxylic acids.
Comparing Classical and Modern Machine Learning Techniques for Monitoring Pedestrian Workers in Top-View Construction Site Video Sequences
Authors: Neuhausen Marcel , Pawlowski Dennis , König Markus
Published: November 2020

Keeping an overview of all ongoing processes on construction sites is almost unfeasible, especially for the construction workers executing their tasks. It is difficult for workers to concentrate on their work while paying attention to other processes. If their workflows in hazardous areas do not run properly, this can lead to dangerous accidents. Tracking pedestrian workers could improve the productivity and safety management on construction sites. For this, vision-based tracking approaches are suitable, but the training and evaluation of such a system requires a large amount of data originating from construction sites. These are rarely available, which complicates deep learning approaches. Thus, we use a small generic dataset and juxtapose a deep learning detector with an approach based on classical machine learning techniques. We identify workers using a YOLOv3 detector and compare its performance with an approach based on a soft cascaded classifier. Afterwards, tracking is done by a Kalman filter. In our experiments, the classical approach outperforms YOLOv3 on the detection task given a small training dataset. However, the Kalman filter is sufficiently robust to compensate for the drawbacks of YOLOv3. We found that both approaches generally yield a satisfying tracking performances but feature different characteristics.
A Novel Framework for Identifying Customers’ Unmet Needs on Online Social Media Using Context Tree
Authors: Ko Taehoon , Rhiu Ilsun , Yun Myung Hwan , Cho Sungzoon
Published: November 2020

Customer needs and user contexts play an important role in generating ideas for new products or new functions. This study proposes a novel framework for identifying customers’ unmet needs on online social media using the Context Tree through the Hierarchical Search of Concept Spaces (HSCS) algorithm. The Context Tree represents the hierarchical structure of nodes associated with related keywords and corresponding concept spaces. Unlike other methods, the Context Tree focuses on finding the unmet needs of customers from online social media. The proposed framework is applied to extract customer needs for home appliances. Identified customer needs are used to make user scenarios, which are used to develop new functions of home appliances.
Prediction of Solvatochromic Polarity Parameters for Aqueous Mixed-Solvent Systems
Authors: Duereh Alif , Anantpinijwatna Amata , Latcharote Panon
Published: November 2020

Solvent polarity is important data being used in solvent selections for preliminary engineering design of chemical processes. In this work, a predictive model is proposed for estimating the solvatochromic polarity of electronic transition energy (ET) of Reichardt indicator for aqueous mixtures. To validate the model, the ET values of eighteen aqueous mixtures collected from the literature were used. The predictive model provided a good estimation of ET values with an overall deviation of 2.1%, compared with an ideal model (5.1%) from the mole fraction average. The linear relationship of the contribution factor of hydrogen bond donor interactions (CFHBD) in the predictive model with Kamlet–Taft acidity was newly proposed in order to extend the model for other aqueous mixtures. The predictive model is applicable to many aqueous mixtures and simply requires three properties of pure components as: (i) ET values, (ii) gas-phase dipole moment and (iii) Kamlet–Taft acidity.
Observation-Based Summer O3 Control Effect Evaluation: A Case Study in Chengdu, a Megacity in Sichuan Basin, China
Authors: Tan Qinwen , Zhou Li , Liu Hefan , Feng Miao , Qiu Yang , Yang Fumo , Jiang Wenju , Wei Fusheng
Published: November 2020

Ground-level ozone (O3), which is mainly from the photochemical reactions of NOx and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), has become a crucial pollutant obstructing air quality improvement in China. Understanding the composition, temporal variability and source apportionment of VOCs is necessary for determining effective control measures to minimize VOCs and their related photochemical pollution. To provide a comprehensive analysis of VOC sources and their contributions to ozone formation in the city of Chengdu—a megacity with the highest rates of industrial and economic development in southwest China—we conducted a one-month monitoring project at three urban sites (Shuangliu, Xindu, Junpingjie; SL, XD and JPJ, respectively) along the main north–south meteorological transport channel before and during the implemented control measures. Alkanes were the dominant group at each site, contributing to around 50% of the observed total VOCs, followed by oxygen-containing VOCs (OVOCs), aromatics, halohydrocarbons and alkenes. During the control period, the mixing ratios of most measured VOC species decreased, and O3 concentrations were down by at least 20%. VOC species experiencing the most effect from control were aromatics and OVOCs, which had higher O3 formation reactivity. This indicated that the control policies had significant influence on reductions of reactive VOC species. We also identified VOC sources at SL and XD using positive matrix factorization (PMF) and assessed their contributions to photochemical O3 formation by calculating the O3 formation potential (OFP) based on mass concentrations and maximum incremental reactivity of related VOCs. Five dominant VOC sources were identified, with the highest contributions from vehicular exhaust and fuel evaporation before control, followed by solvent utilization, biogenic background and secondary formation, and industrial emissions. Contribution from vehicular exhaust was reduced the most at SL, while at XD, secondary formation VOCs decreased significantly. VOCs from vehicular and industrial emissions and solvent utilization were found to be the dominant precursors for OFPs, particularly the species of xylenes, toluene and propene. Our results therefore suggest that priority should be given to the alleviation of photochemical pollutants for effective control of O3 formation in Chengdu. The findings from this work have important implications for formulating effective emission control policies in Chengdu.
COVID-19 and the Improvement of the Global Air Quality: The Bright Side of a Pandemic
Authors: Habibi Hamideh , Awal Ripendra , Fares Ali , Ghahremannejad Masoud
Published: November 2020

The objective of this investigation is to study the impacts of the global response to COVID-19 on air pollution and air quality changes in major cities across the globe over the past few months. Air quality data (NO2, CO, PM2.5, and O3) were downloaded from the World Air Quality Index project for the January 2019–April 2020 period. Results show a significant reduction in the levels of 2020 NO2, CO, and PM2.5 compared to their levels in 2019. These reductions were as high as 63% (Wuhan, China), 61% (Lima, Peru), and 61% (Berlin, Germany), in NO2, CO, and PM2.5 levels, respectively. In contrast, 2020 O3 levels increased substantially, as high as 86% (Milan, Italy), in an apparent response to the decrease in titration by nitrogen monoxide and its derivatives. Significant differences in the weather conditions across the globe do not seem to impact this air quality improvement trend. Will this trend in the reduction in most air pollutants to unprecedented levels continue in the next few weeks or even months? The response to this and other questions will depend on the future global economic and environmental policies.
Spatial Distribution and Biomonitoring of Atmospheric Mercury Concentrations over a Contaminated Coastal Lagoon (Northern Adriatic, Italy)
Authors: Floreani Federico , Barago Nicolò , Acquavita Alessandro , Covelli Stefano , Skert Nicola , Higueras Pablo
Published: November 2020

The Marano and Grado Lagoon (Northern Adriatic Sea) has been affected by mercury (Hg) contamination coming from two sources, mining activity and discharges from a chlor-alkali plant (CAP). Sediments and water contamination have been previously well characterised, but little is known about the atmospheric compartment, where Hg is easily emitted and can persist for a long time as gaseous elemental mercury (GEM). In this work, atmospheric GEM levels and its spatial distribution over the lagoon were monitored at several sites by means of both continuous discrete instrumental measurements over several months and the determination of Hg bioaccumulated in lichens (Xanthoria parietina L.). Average GEM levels varied from 1.80 ± 0.74 to 3.04 ± 0.66 ng m−3, whereas Hg in lichens ranged between 0.06 to 0.40 mg kg−1. In both cases, the highest values were found downwind of the CAP, but excluding this point, spatial patterns of Hg in the atmosphere and lichens reflected the concentration of this metal in the sediments of the lagoon, showing a decrease moving westward. These results could indicate that the lagoon acts as a secondary source of Hg into the atmosphere: future work is needed to characterise the quantity of releases and depositions at different environments inside the lagoon.
Calculation of the Differential Breit–Rosenthal Effect in the 6s6p 3P1,2 States of Hg
Authors: Heggset Tarjei , Persson Jonas R.
Published: November 2020

Studies of the hyperfine anomaly has found a renewed interest with the recent development of techniques to study the properties of long chains of unstable nuclei. By using the hyperfine structure for determining the nuclear magnetic dipole moments, the hyperfine anomaly puts a limit to the accuracy. In this paper, the differential Breit–Rosenthal effect is calculated for the 6s6p3P1,2 states in 199Hg as a function of the change in nuclear radii, using the MCDHF code, GRASP2018. The differential Breit–Rosenthal effect was found to be of the order of 0.1%fm−2, in most cases much less than the Bohr-Weisskopf effect. The results also indicate that large calculations might not be necessary, with the present accuracy of the experimental values for the hyperfine anomaly.
ATP-Dependent Chromatin Remodeler CHD9 Controls the Proliferation of Embryonic Stem Cells in a Cell Culture Condition-Dependent Manner
Authors: Yoo Hyunjin , La Hyeonwoo , Lee Eun Joo , Choi Hee-Jin , Oh Jeongheon , Thang Nguyen Xuan , Hong Kwonho
Published: November 2020

Emerging evidence suggests that chromodomain-helicase-DNA-binding (CHD) proteins are involved in stem cell maintenance and differentiation via the coordination of chromatin structure and gene expression. However, the molecular function of some CHD proteins in stem cell regulation is still poorly understood. Herein, we show that Chd9 knockdown (KD) in mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs) cultured in normal serum media, not in 2i-leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) media, causes rapid cell proliferation. This is caused by transcriptional regulation related to the cell cycle and the response to growth factors. Our analysis showed that, unlike the serum cultured-Chd9 KD ESCs, the 2i-LIF-cultured-Chd9 KO ESCs displayed elevated levels of critical G1 phase regulators such as p21 and p27. Consistently, the DNA binding sites of CHD9 overlap with some transcription factor DNA motifs that are associated with genes regulating the cell cycle and growth pathways. These transcription factors include the cycle gene homology region (CHR), Arid5a, and LIN54. Collectively, our results provide new insights into CHD9-mediated gene transcription for controlling the cell cycle of ESCs.
An Increased Plasma Level of ApoCIII-Rich Electronegative High-Density Lipoprotein May Contribute to Cognitive Impairment in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Chan Hua-Chen , Ke Liang-Yin , Lu Hsiao-Ting , Weng Shih-Feng , Chan Hsiu-Chuan , Law Shi-Hui , Lin I-Ling , Chang Chuan-Fa , Lu Ye-Hsu , Chen Chu-Huang , Chu Chih-Sheng
Published: November 2020

High-density lipoprotein (HDL) plays a vital role in lipid metabolism and anti-inflammatory activities; a dysfunctional HDL impairs cholesterol efflux pathways. To understand HDL’s role in patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD), we analyzed the chemical properties and function. HDL from AD patients (AD-HDL) was separated into five subfractions, H1–H5, using fast-protein liquid chromatography equipped with an anion-exchange column. Subfraction H5, defined as the most electronegative HDL, was increased 5.5-fold in AD-HDL (23.48 ± 17.83%) in comparison with the control HDL (4.24 ± 3.22%). By liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC/MSE), AD-HDL showed that the level of apolipoprotein (apo)CIII was elevated but sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P)-associated apoM and anti-oxidative paraoxonase 1 (PON1) were reduced. AD-HDL showed a lower cholesterol efflux capacity that was associated with the post-translational oxidation of apoAI. Exposure of murine macrophage cell line, RAW 264.7, to AD-HDL induced a vibrant expression of ganglioside GM1 in colocalization with apoCIII on lipid rafts alongside a concomitant increase of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) detectable in the cultured medium. In conclusion, AD-HDL had a higher proportion of H5, an apoCIII-rich electronegative HDL subfraction. The associated increase in pro-inflammatory (apoCIII, TNF-α) components might favor Amyloid β assembly and neural inflammation. A compromised cholesterol efflux capacity of AD-HDL may also contribute to cognitive impairment.
Predicting Factors of Functional Outcome in Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke Admitted to Neuro-Intensive Care Unit—A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Pilato Fabio , Silva Serena , Valente Iacopo , Distefano Marisa , Broccolini Aldobrando , Brunetti Valerio , Caliandro Pietro , Marca Giacomo Della , Di Iorio Riccardo , Frisullo Giovanni , Monforte Mauro , Morosetti Roberta , Piano Carla , Calandrelli Rosalinda , Capone Fioravante , Alexandre Andrea , Pedicelli Alessandro , Colosimo Cesare , Caricato Anselmo
Published: November 2020

Although thrombectomy is beneficial for most stroke patients with large vessel occlusion (LVO), it has added new issues in acute management due to intensive care support. In this prospective cohort study, we described the patients admitted to our neuro-intensive care unit (NICU) after thrombectomy in order to assess factors linked to functional outcomes. The outcome was independency assessed for stroke patients consecutively admitted to NICU for an ischemic stroke due to LVO of the anterior cerebral circulation that underwent intra-arterial mechanical thrombectomy (IAMT), either in combination with intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) in eligible patients or alone in patients with contraindications for IVT. Overall, 158 patients were enrolled. IVT (odds ratio (OR), 3.78; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.20–11.90; p = 0.023) and early naso-gastric tube removal (OR, 3.32; 95% CI, 1.04–10.59 p = 0.042) were associated with good outcomes, whereas a high baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score (OR, 0.72 for each point of increase; 95% CI, 0.61–0.85; p < 0.001) was a predictor of poor outcomes at 3 months. Older age (OR, 0.95 for each year of increase; 95% CI, 0.92–0.99; p = 0.020) and hemorrhagic transformation (OR, 0.31; 95% CI, 0.11–0.84; p = 0.022) were predictors of poor outcomes after IAMT, whereas a modified Treatment in Cerebral Infarction (mTICI) score of 2b/3 was a predictor of good outcomes (OR, 7.86; 95% CI, 1.65–37.39; p = 0.010) at 6 months. Our results show that acute stroke patients with LVO who require NICU management soon after IAMT may show specific clinical factors influencing short- and long-term neurologic independency.
The Multilayer Network Approach in the Study of Personality Neuroscience
Authors: Brooks Dora , Hulst Hanneke E. , de Bruin Leon , Glas Gerrit , Geurts Jeroen J. G. , Douw Linda
Published: November 2020

It has long been understood that a multitude of biological systems, from genetics, to brain networks, to psychological factors, all play a role in personality. Understanding how these systems interact with each other to form both relatively stable patterns of behaviour, cognition and emotion, but also vast individual differences and psychiatric disorders, however, requires new methodological insight. This article explores a way in which to integrate multiple levels of personality simultaneously, with particular focus on its neural and psychological constituents. It does so first by reviewing the current methodology of studies used to relate the two levels, where psychological traits, often defined with a latent variable model are used as higher-level concepts to identify the neural correlates of personality (NCPs). This is known as a top-down approach, which though useful in revealing correlations, is not able to include the fine-grained interactions that occur at both levels. As an alternative, we discuss the use of a novel complex system approach known as a multilayer network, a technique that has recently proved successful in revealing veracious interactions between networks at more than one level. The benefits of the multilayer approach to the study of personality neuroscience follow from its well-founded theoretical basis in network science. Its predictive and descriptive power may surpass that of statistical top-down and latent variable models alone, potentially allowing the discernment of more complete descriptions of individual differences, and psychiatric and neurological changes that accompany disease. Though in its infancy, and subject to a number of methodological unknowns, we argue that the multilayer network approach may contribute to an understanding of personality as a complex system comprised of interrelated psychological and neural features.
Italian Household Load Profiles: A Monitoring Campaign
Authors: Besagni Giorgio , Premoli Vilà Lidia , Borgarello Marco
Published: November 2020

The increasing share of renewable energy sources on the supply side, as well as the so-called electrification pathways on the demand side, has led to peculiar challenges for electrical systems: Indeed, the increasing load demand has to be balanced from the supply-side viewpoint. In particular, the residential sector contributes to nearly 26% of the final energy consumption in Europe, suggesting that a further understanding of households’ consumptions and load profiles is needed to support an energy transition. In this context, this paper contributes to the existing discussion by proposing a sociodemographic analysis of Italian households’ load profiles using a smart metering experimental study, while also considering the households in energy poverty conditions. For the sake of generality, results are presented based on a previously proposed household segmentation of the Italian residential sector. The outcomes point out three prominent peaks on load profiles for all the identified clusters, with a notable distinction in intensity. Where children are present, a higher load profile is noted, reaching a maximum value of 600 W of absorbed power between 19:30 and 22:30. Conversely, households in an energy poverty condition show a relatively regular load profile, ranging from a minimum of 110 W of absorbed power in baseload conditions at night time to a maximum of 280 W in the evening hours. The findings in this paper are in agreement with existing research in the field, and accordingly the study proposes a better focus on domestic appliances and sociodemographic parameters.