bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Urolithin Metabotypes Can Determine the Modulation of Gut Microbiota in Healthy Individuals by Tracking Walnuts Consumption over Three Days
Authors: García-Mantrana Izaskun , Calatayud Marta , Romo-Vaquero María , Espín Juan Carlos , Selma María V. , Collado María Carmen
Published: October 2019

Walnuts are rich in polyphenols ellagitannins, modulate gut microbiota (GM), and exert health benefits after long-term consumption. The metabolism of ellagitannins to urolithins via GM depends on urolithin metabotypes (UM-A, -B, or -0), which have been reported to predict host responsiveness to a polyphenol-rich intervention. This study aims to assess whether UMs were associated with differential GM modulation after short-term walnut consumption. In this study, 27 healthy individuals consumed 33 g of peeled raw walnuts over three days. GM profiling was determined using 16S rRNA illumina sequencing and specific real-time quantitative polymerase chain reactions (qPCRs), as well as microbial activity using short-chain fatty acids analysis in stool samples. UMs stratification of volunteers was assessed using ultra performance liquid chromatography–electro spray ionization–quadrupole time of flight–mass spectrometry (UPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS) analysis of urolithins in urine samples. The gut microbiota associated with UM-B was more sensitive to the walnut intervention. Blautia, Bifidobacterium, and members of the Coriobacteriaceae family, including Gordonibacter, increased exclusively in UM-B subjects, while some members of the Lachnospiraceae family decreased in UM-A individuals. Coprococcus and Collinsella increased in both UMs and higher acetate and propionate production resulted after walnuts intake. Our results show that walnuts consumption after only three days modulates GM in a urolithin metabotype-depending manner and increases the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA).
The In Vivo Net Energy Content of Resistant Starch and Its Effect on Macronutrient Oxidation in Healthy Adults
Authors: Giles Erin D. , Brown Ian L. , MacLean Paul S. , Pan Zhaoxing , Melanson Edward L. , Heard Kennon J. , Cornier Marc-Andre , Marden Tyson , Higgins Janine A.
Published: October 2019

The in vivo net energy content of resistant starch (RS) has not been measured in humans so it has not been possible to account for the contribution of RS to dietary energy intake. We aimed to determine the in vivo net energy content of RS and examine its effect on macronutrient oxidation. This was a randomized, double-blind cross-over study. Eighteen healthy adults spent 24 h in a whole room indirect calorimeter to measure total energy expenditure (TEE), substrate oxidation, and postprandial metabolites in response to three diets: 1) digestible starch (DS), 2) RS (33% dietary fiber; RS), or 3) RS with high fiber (RSF, 56% fiber). The in vivo net energy content of RS and RSF are 2.74 ± 0.41 and 3.16 ± 0.27 kcal/g, respectively. There was no difference in TEE or protein oxidation between DS, RS, and RSF. However, RS and RSF consumption caused a 32% increase in fat oxidation (p = 0.04) with a concomitant 18% decrease in carbohydrate oxidation (p = 0.03) versus DS. Insulin responses were unaltered after breakfast but lower in RS and RSF after lunch, at equivalent glucose concentrations, indicating improved insulin sensitivity. The average in vivo net energy content of RS is 2.95 kcal/g, regardless of dietary fiber content. RS and RSF consumption increase fat and decrease carbohydrate oxidation with postprandial insulin responses lowered after lunch, suggesting improved insulin sensitivity at subsequent meals.
Blood and Brain Biochemistry and Behaviour in NTBC and Dietary Treated Tyrosinemia Type 1 Mice
Authors: van Ginkel Willem G. , van Vliet Danique , van der Goot Els , Faassen Martijn H. J. R. , Vogel Arndt , Heiner-Fokkema M. Rebecca , van der Zee Eddy. A. , van Spronsen Francjan J.
Published: October 2019

Tyrosinemia type 1 (TT1) is a rare metabolic disease caused by a defect in the tyrosine degradation pathway. Neurocognitive deficiencies have been described in TT1 patients, that have, among others, been related to changes in plasma large neutral amino acids (LNAA) that could result in changes in brain LNAA and neurotransmitter concentrations. Therefore, this project aimed to investigate plasma and brain LNAA, brain neurotransmitter concentrations and behavior in C57 Bl/6 fumarylacetoacetate hydrolase deficient (FAH−/−) mice treated with 2-(2-nitro-4-trifluoromethylbenoyl)-1,3-cyclohexanedione (NTBC) and/or diet and wild-type mice. Plasma and brain tyrosine concentrations were clearly increased in all NTBC treated animals, even with diet (p < 0.001). Plasma and brain phenylalanine concentrations tended to be lower in all FAH−/− mice. Other brain LNAA, were often slightly lower in NTBC treated FAH−/− mice. Brain neurotransmitter concentrations were usually within a normal range, although serotonin was negatively correlated with brain tyrosine concentrations (p < 0.001). No clear behavioral differences between the different groups of mice could be found. To conclude, this is the first study measuring plasma and brain biochemistry in FAH−/− mice. Clear changes in plasma and brain LNAA have been shown. Further research should be done to relate the biochemical changes to neurocognitive impairments in TT1 patients.
Effects of Resveratrol in Goto-Kakizaki Rat, a Model of Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Szkudelska Katarzyna , Deniziak Marzanna , Hertig Iwona , Wojciechowicz Tatiana , Tyczewska Marianna , Jaroszewska Magdalena , Szkudelski Tomasz
Published: October 2019

Resveratrol exhibits a pleiotropic, favorable action under various pathological conditions, including type 2 diabetes. However, its anti-diabetic effects in animal models and human trials have not been fully elucidated. The aim of the present study was to determine whether resveratrol is capable of inducing beneficial changes in the Goto-Kakizaki rat, a spontaneous model of diabetes, which in several aspects is similar to type 2 diabetes in humans. Goto-Kakizaki (GK) rats and control Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats were treated intragastrically with resveratrol (20 mg/kg b.w./day) for 10 weeks. Then, a glucose tolerance test was performed and levels of some adipokines in blood were measured. Moreover, lipid contents in skeletal muscle and liver tissues, along with the expression and phosphorylation of pivotal enzymes (AMP—activated protein kinase—AMPK, acetyl-CoA carboxylase—ACC, protein kinase B—Akt) in these tissues were determined. Histology of pancreatic islets was also compared. GK rats non-treated with resveratrol displayed a marked glucose intolerance and had increased lipid accumulation in the skeletal muscle. Moreover, upregulation of the expression and phosphorylation of AMPK, ACC and Akt was shown in the muscle tissue of GK rats. Those rats also had an abnormal structure of pancreatic islets compared with control animals. However, treatment with resveratrol improved glucose tolerance and prevented lipid accumulation in the skeletal muscle of GK rats. This effect was associated with a substantial normalization of expression and phosphorylation of ACC and Akt. In GK rats subjected to resveratrol therapy, the structure of pancreatic islets was also clearly improved. Moreover, blood adiponectin and leptin levels were partially normalized by resveratrol in GK rats. It was revealed that resveratrol ameliorates key symptoms of diabetes in GK rats. This compound improved glucose tolerance, which was largely linked to beneficial changes in skeletal muscle. Resveratrol also positively affected pancreatic islets. Our new findings show that resveratrol has therapeutic potential in GK rats.
Home Enteral Nutrition in Singapore’s Long-Term Care Homes—Incidence, Prevalence, Cost, and Staffing
Authors: Wong Alvin , Sowa P Marcin , Banks Merrilyn D. , Bauer Judith D.
Published: October 2019

Introduction: Data on home enteral nutrition (HEN) in long-term care facilities (LTCF) in Singapore is scarce. This study aims to determine the prevalence and incidence of chewing/swallowing impairment and HEN, and the manpower and costs related. Methods: A validated cross-sectional survey was sent to all 69 LTCFs in Singapore in May 2019. Local costs (S$) for manpower and feeds were used to tabulate the cost of HEN. Results: Nine LTCFs (13.0%) responded, with a combined 1879 beds and 240 residents on HEN. An incidence rate (IR) of 15.7 per 1000 people-years (PY) and a point prevalence (PP) of 136.6 per 1000 residents were determined for HEN, and an IR of 433.0 per 1000 PY, with PP of 385.6 per 1000 residents for chewing/swallowing impairment. Only 2.5% of residents had a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG). The mean length of residence in LTCF was 45.9 ± 12.3 months. More than half of the residents received nasogastric tube feeding (NGT) for ≥36 months. Median monthly HEN cost per resident was S$799.47 (interquartile range (IQR): 692.11, 940.30). Nursing costs for feeding contributed to 63% of total HEN costs. Conclusions: The high usage and length of time on NGT feeding warrants exploration and education of PEG usage. A national HEN database may improve the care of LTCF residents.
Hydroxytyrosol Modulates Adipocyte Gene and miRNA Expression Under Inflammatory Condition
Authors: Scoditti Egeria , Carpi Sara , Massaro Marika , Pellegrino Mariangela , Polini Beatrice , Carluccio Maria Annunziata , Wabitsch Martin , Verri Tiziano , Nieri Paola , De Caterina Raffaele
Published: October 2019

Chronic inflammation of the adipose tissue (AT) is a major contributor to obesity-associated cardiometabolic complications. The olive oil polyphenol hydroxytyrosol (HT) contributes to Mediterranean diet cardiometabolic benefits through mechanisms still partially unknown. We investigated HT (1 and 10 μmol/L) effects on gene expression (mRNA and microRNA) related to inflammation induced by 10 ng/mL tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α in human Simpson–Golabi–Behmel Syndrome (SGBS) adipocytes. At real-time PCR, HT significantly inhibited TNF-α-induced mRNA levels, of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, C-X-C Motif Ligand-10, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, vascular endothelial growth factor, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1, cyclooxygenase-2, macrophage colony-stimulating factor, matrix metalloproteinase-2, Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase-1, and glutathione peroxidase, as well as surface expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1, and reverted the TNF-α-mediated inhibition of endothelial nitric oxide synthase, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor coactivator-1α, and glucose transporter-4. We found similar effects in adipocytes stimulated by macrophage-conditioned media. Accordingly, HT significantly counteracted miR-155-5p, miR-34a-5p, and let-7c-5p expression in both cells and exosomes, and prevented NF-κB activation and production of reactive oxygen species. HT can therefore modulate adipocyte gene expression profile through mechanisms involving a reduction of oxidative stress and NF-κB inhibition. By such mechanisms, HT may blunt macrophage recruitment and improve AT inflammation, preventing the deregulation of pathways involved in obesity-related diseases.
Body Mass Index, Lean Mass, and Body Fat Percentage as Mediators of the Relationship between Milk Consumption and Bone Health in Young Adults
Authors: Torres-Costoso Ana , López-Muñoz Purificación , Ferri-Morales Asunción , Bravo-Morales Elisabeth , Martínez-Vizcaíno Vicente , Garrido-Miguel Miriam
Published: October 2019

Identifying environmental factors that influence bone health is crucial for developing effective intervention strategies that maximize peak bone mass. The aim of this study was to estimate the relationship between milk consumption and bone mineral density (BMD) in young adults, and to examine whether this relationship is mediated by body mass index (BMI) and total lean and fat mass. A cross-sectional study involving college students (n = 239) from a Spanish public university was performed. Data on milk consumption and anthropometric and body composition variables were collected. The Pearson correlation coefficients among total body BMD, body composition variables, and milk consumption ranged from −0.111 to −1.171, most of them statistically significant (p < 0.05). The ANCOVA (analysis of covariance) models showed that those with higher regular milk consumption had less total body BMD than those with lower regular milk consumption (p < 0.05), even after controlling for different sets of confounders. In the mediation analysis, BMI and lean and fat mass turned out to act as full mediators of the relationship between regular milk consumption and total body BMD (z = −1.7148, −1.3208, and −1.8549, respectively; p ≤ 0.05). In conclusion, milk consumption, per se, does not seem to have a direct effect on bone development, because its association seems to be fully mediated by body composition variables in young adults.
Greater Circulating Copper Concentrations and Copper/Zinc Ratios are Associated with Lower Psychological Distress, But Not Cognitive Performance, in a Sample of Australian Older Adults
Authors: Mravunac Michelle , Szymlek-Gay Ewa , Daly Robin M. , Roberts Blaine R. , Formica Melissa , Gianoudis Jenny , O’Connell Stella L. , Nowson Caryl A. , Cardoso Barbara R.
Published: October 2019

Dyshomeostasis of copper and zinc is linked to neurodegeneration. This study investigated the relationship between circulating copper and zinc and copper/zinc ratios and cognitive function, symptoms of depression and anxiety, and neurotrophic factors in older Australian adults. In this cross-sectional study (n = 139), plasma copper, serum zinc, and neurotrophic factors (brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), vascular endothelial growth factor, and insulin-like growth factor-1) were assessed. Cognition was assessed using the Cogstate battery and the Behavior Rating Inventory (BRI) of Executive Function (Adult version). Symptoms of anxiety and depression were assessed with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. Copper (β = −0.024; 95% CI = −0.044, −0.004; p = 0.019) and copper/zinc ratio (β = −1.99; 95% CI = −3.41, −0.57; p = 0.006) were associated with lower depressive symptoms, but not cognition. Plasma copper had a modest positive association with BDNF (β = −0.004; 95% CI = 0.000, 0.007; p = 0.021). Zinc was not associated with any of the outcomes. In conclusion, greater circulating copper concentrations and higher copper/zinc ratios were associated with lower depressive symptoms (but not cognition), with copper also positively associated with BDNF concentration, in a sample of community-dwelling older adults.
New Software for Gluten-Free Diet Evaluation and Nutritional Education
Authors: Lasa Arrate , Larretxi Idoia , Simón Edurne , Churruca Itziar , Navarro Virginia , Martínez Olalla , Bustamante María Ángeles , Miranda Jonatan
Published: October 2019

Following a gluten-free diet (GFD) is the only treatment for celiac disease. This diet must ensure the absence of gluten but also needs to be nutritionally balanced. Dietitians working in this field cannot properly evaluate energy and nutrient intake of celiac people because dietary programs available on the market do not contain the nutritional composition of gluten-free products (GFP). Here we present a new GFD evaluation software that contains more than 700 gluten-free rendered foodstuffs and their macronutrient composition. Apart from diet evaluation and design, the software represents a tool for nutritional education as well, since it shows diet appropriacy and indicates how to promote balanced self-care. Moreover, anthropometric and biochemical data or symptoms presence and diet adherence can be recorded and evaluated. This open free software, can be downloaded in its app format for mobiles and tablets. Software evaluation indicated its correct functionality and the importance of assessing a GFD with GFP instead of with their gluten-containing analogues. Thus, this software represents an essential e-Health tool, not only for proper GFD evaluation, but also for improving life quality of celiac and gluten sensitive people.
C3orf70 Is Involved in Neural and Neurobehavioral Development
Authors: Ashikawa Yoshifumi , Shiromizu Takashi , Miura Koki , Adachi Yuka , Matsui Takaaki , Bessho Yasumasa , Tanaka Toshio , Nishimura Yuhei
Published: October 2019

Neurogenesis is the process by which undifferentiated progenitor cells develop into mature and functional neurons. Defects in neurogenesis are associated with neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders; therefore, elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying neurogenesis can advance our understanding of the pathophysiology of these disorders and facilitate the discovery of novel therapeutic targets. In this study, we performed a comparative transcriptomic analysis to identify common targets of the proneural transcription factors Neurog1/2 and Ascl1 during neurogenesis of human and mouse stem cells. We successfully identified C3orf70 as a novel common target gene of Neurog1/2 and Ascl1 during neurogenesis. Using in situ hybridization, we demonstrated that c3orf70a and c3orf70b, two orthologs of C3orf70, were expressed in the midbrain and hindbrain of zebrafish larvae. We generated c3orf70 knockout zebrafish using CRISPR/Cas9 technology and demonstrated that loss of c3orf70 resulted in significantly decreased expression of the mature neuron markers elavl3 and eno2. We also found that expression of irx3b, a zebrafish ortholog of IRX3 and a midbrain/hindbrain marker, was significantly reduced in c3orf70 knockout zebrafish. Finally, we demonstrated that neurobehaviors related to circadian rhythm and altered light–dark conditions were significantly impaired in c3orf70 knockout zebrafish. These results suggest that C3orf70 is involved in neural and neurobehavioral development and that defects in C3orf70 may be associated with midbrain/hindbrain-related neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders.
Computer-Assisted and Data Driven Approaches for Surveillance, Drug Discovery, and Vaccine Design for the Zika Virus
Authors: Basak Subhash C. , Majumdar Subhabrata , Nandy Ashesh , Roy Proyasha , Dutta Tathagata , Vracko Marjan , Bhattacharjee Apurba K.
Published: October 2019

Human life has been at the edge of catastrophe for millennia due diseases which emerge and reemerge at random. The recent outbreak of the Zika virus (ZIKV) is one such menace that shook the global public health community abruptly. Modern technologies, including computational tools as well as experimental approaches, need to be harnessed fast and effectively in a coordinated manner in order to properly address such challenges. In this paper, based on our earlier research, we have proposed a four-pronged approach to tackle the emerging pathogens like ZIKV: (a) Epidemiological modelling of spread mechanisms of ZIKV; (b) assessment of the public health risk of newly emerging strains of the pathogens by comparing them with existing strains/pathogens using fast computational sequence comparison methods; (c) implementation of vaccine design methods in order to produce a set of probable peptide vaccine candidates for quick synthesis/production and testing in the laboratory; and (d) designing of novel therapeutic molecules and their laboratory testing as well as validation of new drugs or repurposing of drugs for use against ZIKV. For each of these stages, we provide an extensive review of the technical challenges and current state-of-the-art. Further, we outline the future areas of research and discuss how they can work together to proactively combat ZIKV or future emerging pathogens.
Liposomal Formulations for Nose-to-Brain Delivery: Recent Advances and Future Perspectives
Authors: Hong Soon-Seok , Oh Kyung Taek , Choi Han-Gon , Lim Soo-Jeong
Published: October 2019

Restricted drug entry to the brain that is closely associated with the existence of the blood brain barrier (BBB) has limited the accessibility of most potential active therapeutic compounds to the brain from the systemic circulation. Recently, evidences for the presence of direct nose-to-brain drug transport pathways have been accumulated by several studies and an intranasal drug administration route has gained attention as a promising way for providing direct access to the brain without the needs to cross to the BBB. Studies aiming for developing nanoparticles as an intranasal drug carrier have shown considerable promise in overcoming the challenges of intranasal drug delivery route. This review gives a comprehensive overview of works having investigated liposomes as a potential vehicle to deliver drugs to the brain through nose-to-brain route while considering the excellent biocompatibility and high potential of liposomes for clinical development. Herein, studies are reviewed with special emphasis on the impact of formulation factors, such as liposome composition and surface modification of liposomes with targeting moieties, in addition to intranasal environmental factors that may affect the extent/site of absorption of intranasally administered, liposome-encapsulated drugs.
Recent Progress on Near-Infrared Photoacoustic Imaging: Imaging Modality and Organic Semiconducting Agents
Authors: Jung Doyoung , Park Suhyeon , Lee Changho , Kim Hyungwoo
Published: October 2019

Over the past few decades, the photoacoustic (PA) effect has been widely investigated, opening up diverse applications, such as photoacoustic spectroscopy, estimation of chemical energies, or point-of-care detection. Notably, photoacoustic imaging (PAI) has also been developed and has recently received considerable attention in bio-related or clinical imaging fields, as it now facilitates an imaging platform in the near-infrared (NIR) region by taking advantage of the significant advancement of exogenous imaging agents. The NIR PAI platform now paves the way for high-resolution, deep-tissue imaging, which is imperative for contemporary theragnosis, a combination of precise diagnosis and well-timed therapy. This review reports the recent progress on NIR PAI modality, as well as semiconducting contrast agents, and outlines the trend in current NIR imaging and provides further direction for the prospective development of PAI systems.
Employing of Trukhan Model to Estimate Ion Transport Parameters in PVA Based Solid Polymer Electrolyte
Authors: Aziz Shujahadeen B. , B. Marif Rawezh , Brza M. A. , Hamsan M. H. , Kadir M. F. Z.
Published: October 2019

In the current paper, ion transport parameters in poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) based solid polymer electrolyte were examined using Trukhan model successfully. The desired amount of lithium trifluoromethanesulfonate (LiCF3SO3) was dissolved in PVA host polymer to synthesis of solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs). Ion transport parameters such as mobility (μ), diffusion coefficient (D), and charge carrier number density (n) are investigated in detail using impedance spectroscopy. The data results from impedance plots illustrated a decrement of bulk resistance with an increase in temperature. Using electrical equivalent circuits (EEC), electrical impedance plots (ZivsZr) are fitted at various temperatures. The results of impedance study demonstrated that the resistivity of the sample decreases with increasing temperature. The decrease of resistance or impedance with increasing temperature distinguished from Bode plots. The dielectric constant and dielectric loss values increased with an increase in temperature. The loss tangent peaks shifted to higher frequency region and the intensity increased with an increase in temperature. In this contribution, ion transport as a complicated subject in polymer physics is studied. The conductivity versus reciprocal of temperature was found to obey Arrhenius behavior type. The ion transport mechanism is discussed from the tanδ spectra. The ion transport parameters at ambient temperature are found to be 9 × 10−8 cm2/s, 0.8 × 1017 cm−3, and 3 × 10−6 cm2/Vs for D, n, andμ respectively. All these parameters have shown increasing as temperature increased. The electric modulus parameters are studied in an attempt to understand the relaxation dynamics and to clarify the relaxation process and ion dynamics relationship.
Potentiometric PVC-Membrane-Based Sensor for Dimethylamine Assessment Using A Molecularly Imprinted Polymer as A Sensory Recognition Element
Authors: S. M. Hassan Saad , E. Amr Abd El-Galil , Abd El-Naby Heba , A. Al-Omar Mohamed , H. Kamel Ayman , Khalifa Nagy M.
Published: October 2019

A new simple potentiometric sensor is developed and presented for sensitive and selective monitoring of dimethylamine (DMA). The sensor incorporates a molecularly imprinted polymer, with a pre-defined specific cavity suitable to accommodate DMA. The molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) particles were dispersed in an aplasticized poly(vinyl chloride) matrix. The MIP is synthesized by using a template molecule (DMA), a functional monomer (acrylamide, AM), cross-linker (ethylene glycol dimethacrylate, EGDMA) and initiating reagent (benzoylperoxide, BPO). Using Trizma buffer solution (5 mmol L−1, pH 7.1), the sensor exhibits a rapid, stable and linear response for 1.0 × 10−5 to 1.0 × 10−2 mol L−1 DMA+ with a calibration slope of 51.3 ± 0.3 mV decade−1, and a detection limit of 4.6 × 10−6 mol L−1 (0.37 µg mL−1). The electrode exhibited a short response time (10 s) and stable potential readings (± 0.5 mV) for more than 2 months. Potentiometric selectivity measurements of the sensor reveal negligible interferences from most common aliphatic and aromatic amines. High concentration levels (100-fold excess) of many inorganic cations do not interfere. The sensor is successfully used for quantification of low levels of DMA down to 0.5 µg mL–1. Verification of the presented method was carried out after measuring the detection limit, working linearity range, ruggedness of the method, accuracy, precision, repeatability and reproducibility. Under flow-through conditions, the proposed sensor in its tubular form is prepared and introduced in a two-channel flow injection setup for hydrodynamic determination of DMA. The sampling rate is 50–55 samples h–1. The sensor is used to determine DMA in different soil samples with an accuracy range of 97.0–102.8%.
Durable Antipilling Modification of Cotton Fabric with Chloropyrimidine Compounds
Authors: Dong Xue , Xing Tieling , Chen Guoqiang
Published: October 2019

Cotton fabric, a natural cellulose material, is widely used in the textile industry for its excellent properties. However, its application in some fields are seriously restricted because of its poor antipilling behavior. In this study, cotton fabrics were modified with 2,4,6-trichloropyrimidine (TLP), 2,4-dichloro-5-methoxypyrimidine (DMP), and 2-amino-4,6-dichloropyridine (ADP). The surface morphology and chemical structure of the modified cotton fabric were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Furthermore, the antipilling behavior, dyeing properties, thermal properties, and mechanical properties of modified cotton fabric were evaluated. The results showed that chloropyrimidine compounds were successfully grafted onto the surface of the cotton fabric, leading to excellent and durable antipilling activity of grade 3–4 even after 10 washes. Moreover, compared with control cotton fabric, the heat release rate (HRR) and total heat release (THR) of TLP-modified cotton fabric decreased to 173.2 W/g (42.3% reduction) and 11.3 KJ/g (13.7% reduction), respectively. In addition, the increased K/S value of modified cotton fabrics dyed with reactive dyes indicated that the modification can enhance the dyability of cotton fabric. This technique provides a simple and versatile method for improving the antipilling behavior of cellulosic materials and supports further preparation of functional textiles.
Investigation of the Effect of Carbonyl Iron Micro-Particles on the Mechanical and Rheological Properties of Isotropic and Anisotropic MREs: Constitutive Magneto-Mechanical Material Model
Authors: Soria-Hernández Cintya , Palacios-Pineda Luis , Elías-Zúñiga Alex , Perales-Martínez Imperio , Martínez-Romero Oscar
Published: October 2019

This article focuses on evaluating the influence that the addition of carbonyl iron micro-particles (CIPs) and its alignment have on the mechanical and rheological properties for magnetorheological elastomers (MREs) fabricated using polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) elastomer, and 24 wt % of silicone oil (SO). A solenoid device was designed and built to fabricate the corresponding composite magnetorheological material and to perform uniaxial cyclic tests under uniform magnetic flux density. Furthermore, a constitutive material model that considers both elastic and magnetic effects was introduced to predict stress-softening and permanent set effects experienced by the MRE samples during cyclic loading tests. Moreover, experimental characterizations via Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), tensile mechanical testing, and rheological tests were performed on the produced MRE samples in order to assess mechanical and rheological material properties such as mechanical strength, material stiffness, Mullins and permanent set effects, damping ratio, stiffness magnetorheological effect (SMR), and relative magnetorheological storage and loss moduli effects. Experimental results and theoretical predictions confirmed that for a CIPs concentration of 70 wt %, the material samples exhibit the highest shear modulus, stress-softening effects, and engineering stress values when the samples are subject to a maximum stretch value of 1.64 and a uniform magnetic flux density of 52.2 mT.
Kosovo Crucified—Narratives in the Contemporary Serbian Orthodox Perception of Kosovo
Authors: Hilton Saggau Emil
Published: October 2019

In contemporary Serbian Orthodox texts, Kosovo is often referred to as the Serbian “Jerusalem”: a city calling for a Christian defense. All Serbs are bound to heed the call in keeping with the Kosovo “covenant” or “pledge” dating back to the Battle of Kosovo Polje in 1389, when Serbian troops, led by Prince Lazar, were defeated by the invading Muslim Ottoman army. The battle and Kosovo in general have since then assumed a central symbolic role in Serbian nationalism and the Serbian Orthodox Church. Furthermore, it has been claimed that the imagery and narratives of Kosovo were the ideological backdrop for the wars in the Balkans in the 1990s. This article investigates the development of the Serbian narratives and imagery pertaining to Kosovo and their modern form in the Serbian Orthodox Church in order to trace what type of imagery is dominant. The main focus will be on whether and to what extent the narratives of Christian defense and holy Serbian warriors fighting in the name of Christ are dominant. This investigation seeks to discuss whether the Kosovo imagery and narratives are formed upon and influenced by a broader Christian European antemurale myth.
Global Capital, Local Conservation, and Ecological Civilization: The Tiejia Ecology Temple and the Chinese Daoist Association’s Green Agenda
Authors: Lemche Jennifer , Miller James
Published: October 2019

Since 1995, the Chinese Daoist Association (CDA) has pursued a green agenda through the publication of declarations, statements and an eight year plan. This agenda has been aided in part by its engagement with global environmental discourse as mediated in particular by the Alliance for Religions and Conservation (ARC). Through its collaboration with ARC and a Dutch businessman, Allerd Stikker, the CDA built its first “ecology temple” in Shaanxi Province and convened its first ecological conference there. Analysis of these declarations and activities reveals an increasing globalization and juridification of environmental discourse in Chinese Daoist temples. In this way the issue of ecology presents further opportunities for the CDA, and by extension the Communist Party of China (CPC), to enhance their supervision of local religious activities.
Erratum: Responses of Korean Buddhism to the Ethos of Contemporary Korea: Three Discourses in the Wake of Modernization. Religions 10 (2019): 6
Authors: Yun Woncheol , Park Beom Seok
Published: October 2019

The authors would like to make the following corrections to the paper (Yun and Park 2019): [...]
Snow-Covered Area Retrieval from Himawari–8 AHI Imagery of the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Wang Gongxue , Jiang Lingmei , Shi Jiancheng , Liu Xiaojing , Yang Jianwei , Cui Huizhen
Published: October 2019

Daily snow-covered area retrieval using the imagery in solar reflective bands often encounters extensive data gaps caused by cloud obscuration. With the inception of geostationary satellites carrying advanced multispectral imagers of high temporal resolution, such as Japan’s geostationary weather satellite Himawari–8, considerable progress can now be made towards spatially-complete estimation of daily snow-covered area. We developed a dynamic snow index (normalized difference snow index for vegetation-free background and normalized difference forest–snow index for vegetation background) fractional snow cover estimation method using Himawari–8 Advanced Himawari Imager (AHI) observations of the Tibetan Plateau. This method estimates fractional snow cover with the pixel-by-pixel linear relationship of snow index observations acquired under snow-free and snow-covered conditions. To achieve reliable snow-covered area mapping with minimal cloud contamination, the daily fractional snow cover can be represented as the composite of the high temporal resolution fractional snow cover estimates during daytime. The comparison against reference fractional snow cover data from Landsat–8 Operational Land Imager (OLI) showed that the root–mean–square error (RMSE) of the Himawari–8 AHI fractional snow cover ranged from 0.07 to 0.16, and that the coefficient of determination (R2) reached 0.81–0.96. Results from the 2015/2016 and 2016/2017 winters indicated that the daily composite of Himawari–8 observations obtained a 14% cloud percentage over the Tibetan Plateau, which was less than the cloud percentage (27%) from the combination of Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) onboard Terra and Aqua.
New Global View of Above-Cloud Absorbing Aerosol Distribution Based on CALIPSO Measurements
Authors: Zhang Wenzhong , Deng Shumei , Luo Tao , Wu Yang , Liu Nana , Li Xuebin , Huang Yinbo , Zhu Wenyue
Published: October 2019

Above-low-level-cloud aerosols (ACAs) have gradually gained more interest in recent years; however, the combined aerosol–cloud radiation effects are not well understood. The uncertainty about the radiative effects of aerosols above cloud mainly stems from the lack of comprehensive and accurate retrieval of aerosols and clouds for ACA scenes. In this study, an improved ACA identification and retrieval methodology was developed to provide a new global view of the ACA distribution by combining three-channel CALIOP (The Cloud–Aerosol Lidar with Orthogonal Polarization) observations. The new method can reliably identify and retrieve both thin and dense ACA layers, providing consistent results between the day- and night-time retrieval of ACAs. Then, new four-year (2007 to 2010) global ACA datasets were built, and new seasonal mean views of global ACA occurrence, optical depth, and geometrical thickness were presented and analyzed. Further discussion on the relative position of ACAs to low clouds showed that the mean distance between the ACA layer and the low cloud deck over the tropical Atlantic region is less than 0.2 km. This indicates that the ACAs over this region are more likely to be mixed with low-level clouds, thereby possibly influencing the cloud microphysics over this region, contrary to findings reported from previous studies. The results not only help us better understand global aerosol transportation and aerosol–cloud interactions but also provide useful information for model evaluation and improvements.
Detection of Geothermal Potential Zones Using Remote Sensing Techniques
Authors: Lago González David , Rodríguez-Gonzálvez Pablo
Published: October 2019

The transition towards a new sustainable energy model—replacing fossil fuels with renewable sources—presents a multidisciplinary challenge. One of the major decarbonization issues is the question of to optimize energy transport networks for renewable energy sources. Within the range of renewable energies, the location and evaluation of geothermal energy is associated with costly processes, such as drilling, which limit its use. Therefore, the present research is aimed at applying different geomatic techniques for the detection of geothermal resources. The workflow is based on free/open access geospatial data. More specifically, remote sensing information (Sentinel-2A and Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER)), geological information, distribution of gravimetric anomalies, and geographic information systems have been used to detect areas of shallow geothermal potential in the northwest of the province of Orense, Spain. Due to the variety of parameters involved, and the complexity of the classification, a random forest classifier was employed, since this algorithm works well with large sets of data and can be used with categorical and numerical data. The results obtained allowed identifying a susceptible area to be operated on with a geothermal potential of 80 W·m−1 or higher.
Spatial and Seasonal Patterns in Vegetation Growth-Limiting Factors over Europe
Authors: Karnieli Arnon , Ohana-Levi Noa , Silver Micha , Paz-Kagan Tarin , Panov Natalya , Varghese Dani , Chrysoulakis Nektarios , Provenzale Antonello
Published: October 2019

Water and energy are recognized as the most influential climatic vegetation growth-limiting factors. These factors are usually measured from ground meteorological stations. However, since both vary in space, time, and scale, they can be assessed by satellite-derived biophysical indicators. Energy, represented by land surface temperature (LST), is assumed to resemble air temperature; and water availability, related to precipitation, is represented by the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI). It is hypothesized that positive correlations between LST and NDVI indicate energy-limited conditions, while negative correlations indicate water-limited conditions. The current project aimed to quantify the spatial and seasonal (spring and summer) distributions of LST–NDVI relations over Europe, using long-term (2000–2017) MODIS images. Overlaying the LST–NDVI relations on the European biome map revealed that relations between LST and NDVI were highly diverse among the various biomes and throughout the entire study period (March–August). During the spring season (March–May), 80% of the European domain, across all biomes, showed the dominance of significant positive relations. However, during the summer season (June–August), most of the biomes—except the northern ones—turned to negative correlation. This study demonstrates that the drought/vegetation/stress spectral indices, based on the prevalent hypothesis of an inverse LST–NDVI correlation, are spatially and temporally dependent. These negative correlations are not valid in regions where energy is the limiting factor (e.g., in the drier regions in the southern and eastern extents of the domain) or during specific periods of the year (e.g., the spring season). Consequently, it is essential to re-examine this assumption and restrict applications of such an approach only to areas and periods in which negative correlations are observed. Predicted climate change will lead to an increase in temperature in the coming decades (i.e., increased LST), as well as a complex pattern of precipitation changes (i.e., changes of NDVI). Thus shifts in plant species locations are expected to cause a redistribution of biomes.
Modeling the Effect of Environmental and Topographic Variables Affecting the Height Increment of Norway Spruce Stands in Mountainous Conditions with the Use of LiDAR Data
Authors: Bałazy Radomir , Kamińska Agnieszka , Ciesielski Mariusz , Socha Jarosław , Pierzchalski Marcin
Published: October 2019

Differing levels of humidity, sunlight exposure or temperature in different areas of mountain ranges are fundamental to the existence of particular vegetation types. A better understanding of even local variability of trees may bring significant benefits, not only economic, but most of all, nature-related. The main focus of this study was the analysis of relationships between increment in stand height, age and the natural topography in the examined area. Among others, the following were examined with regard to their influence on the growing process: age, altitude above sea level (m a.s.l.), aspect and slope, topographic wetness index (TWI), and topographic position index (TPI) generated from an airborne laser scanning (ALS)-derived elevation model. To precisely calculate forest growth dynamics in mountain conditions for different spruce stands, repeated airborne lidar measurements from 2007 and 2012 were used (with resolution respectively 4 and 6 pts./m2). Detailed information on every stand including species composition, share of individual species, as well as their age, were acquired from the State Forests IT System (SILP). It was proven in this study, that environmental and topographic variables may have an impact on forest growth dynamics on even closely located areas. Apart from the age, the greatest influence on tree growth has an altitude above sea level, aspect and slope. The highest height increment of spruce was observed in the stands of up to 30 years old, those that had grown at an altitude under 850 m a.s.l., on the slopes up to 15 degrees or on those which were on the northeastern exposure. The results obtained show that the physiology of species, even those that are well known, largely depends on local topographic conditions. The proven impact of different topography factors on the growth of spruce may be used while planning economic activities in precision forestry. Additional research with using multiple laser scanning in the context of other regions or other species may bring us better recognition of local growth conditions and in consequence, significantly better planning and higher revenues obtained from the sale of trees.
Monitoring of Urbanization and Analysis of Environmental Impact in Stockholm with Sentinel-2A and SPOT-5 Multispectral Data
Authors: Furberg Dorothy , Ban Yifang , Nascetti Andrea
Published: October 2019

There has been substantial urban growth in Stockholm, Sweden, the fastest-growing capital in Europe. The intensifying urbanization poses challenges for environmental management and sustainable development. Using Sentinel-2 and SPOT-5 imagery, this research investigates the evolution of land-cover change in Stockholm County between 2005 and 2015, and evaluates urban growth impact on protected green areas, green infrastructure and urban ecosystem service provision. One scene of 2015 Sentinel-2A multispectral instrument (MSI) and 10 scenes of 2005 SPOT-5 high-resolution instruments (HRI) imagery over Stockholm County are classified into 10 land-cover categories using object-based image analysis and a support vector machine algorithm with spectral, textural and geometric features. Reaching accuracies of approximately 90%, the classifications are then analyzed to determine impact of urban growth in Stockholm between 2005 and 2015, including land-cover change statistics, landscape-level urban ecosystem service provision bundle changes and evaluation of regional and local impact on legislatively protected areas as well as ecologically significant green infrastructure networks. The results indicate that urban areas increased by 15%, while non-urban land cover decreased by 4%. In terms of ecosystem services, changes in proximity of forest and low-density built-up areas were the main cause of lowered provision of temperature regulation, air purification and noise reduction. There was a decadal ecosystem service loss of 4.6 million USD (2015 exchange rate). Urban areas within a 200 m buffer zone around the Swedish environmental protection agency’s nature reserves increased 16%, with examples of urban areas constructed along nature reserve boundaries. Urban expansion overlapped the deciduous ecological corridor network and green wedge/core areas to a small but increasing degree, often in close proximity to weak but important green links in the landscape. Given these findings, increased conservation/restoration focus on the region’s green weak links is recommended.
Joint Retrieval of Growing Season Corn Canopy LAI and Leaf Chlorophyll Content by Fusing Sentinel-2 and MODIS Images
Authors: Su Wei , Sun Zhongping , Chen Wen-hua , Zhang Xiaodong , Yao Chan , Wu Jiayu , Huang Jianxi , Zhu Dehai
Published: October 2019

Continuous and accurate estimates of crop canopy leaf area index (LAI) and chlorophyll content are of great importance for crop growth monitoring. These estimates can be useful for precision agricultural management and agricultural planning. Our objectives were to investigate the joint retrieval of corn canopy LAI and chlorophyll content using filtered reflectances from Sentinel-2 and MODIS data acquired during the corn growing season, which, being generally hot and rainy, results in few cloud-free Sentinel-2 images. In addition, the retrieved time series of LAI and chlorophyll content results were used to monitor the corn growth behavior in the study area. Our results showed that: (1) the joint retrieval of LAI and chlorophyll content using the proposed joint probability distribution method improved the estimation accuracy of both corn canopy LAI and chlorophyll content. Corn canopy LAI and chlorophyll content were retrieved jointly and accurately using the PROSAIL model with fused Kalman filtered (KF) reflectance images. The relation between retrieved and field measured LAI and chlorophyll content of four corn-growing stages had a coefficient of determination (R2) of about 0.6, and root mean square errors (RMSEs) ranges of mainly 0.1–0.2 and 0.0–0.3, respectively. (2) Kalman filtering is a good way to produce continuous high-resolution reflectance images by synthesizing Sentinel-2 and MODIS reflectances. The correlation between fused KF and Sentinel-2 reflectances had an R2 value of 0.98 and RMSE of 0.0133, and the correlation between KF and field-measured reflectances had an R2 value of 0.8598 and RMSE of 0.0404. (3) The derived continuous KF reflectances captured the crop behavior well. Our analysis showed that the LAI increased from day of year (DOY) 181 (trefoil stage) to DOY 236 (filling stage), and then increased continuously until harvest, while the chlorophyll content first also increased from DOY 181 to DOY 236, and then remained stable until harvest. These results revealed that the jointly retrieved continuous LAI and chlorophyll content could be used to monitor corn growth conditions.