bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimal Perioperative Nutrition Therapy for Patients Undergoing Pancreaticoduodenectomy: A Systematic Review with a Component Network Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wang Shang-Yu , Hung Yu-Liang , Hsu Chih-Chieh , Hu Chia-Hsiang , Huang Ruo-Yi , Sung Chang-Mu , Li Yan-Rong , Kou Hao-Wei , Chen Ming-Yang , Chang Shih-Chun , Lee Chao-Wei , Tsai Chun-Yi , Liu Keng-Hao , Hsu Jun-Te , Yeh Chun-Nan , Yeh Ta-Sen , Hwang Tsann-Long , Jan Yi-Yin , Chen Miin-Fu
Published: November 2021

Numerous strategies for perioperative nutrition therapy for patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) have been proposed. This systematic review aimed to summarize the current relevant published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating different nutritional interventions via a traditional network meta-analysis (NMA) and component network meta-analysis (cNMA). EMBASE, MEDLINE, the Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched to identify the RCTs. The evaluated nutritional interventions comprised standard postoperative enteral nutrition by feeding tube (Postop-SEN), preoperative enteral feeding (Preop-EN), postoperative immunonutrients (Postop-IM), preoperative oral immunonutrient supplement (Preop-IM), and postoperative total parenteral nutrition (TPN). The primary outcomes were general, infectious, and noninfectious complications; postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF); and delayed gastric emptying (DGE). The secondary outcomes were mortality and length of hospital stay (LOS). The NMA and cNMA were conducted with a frequentist approach. The results are presented as odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Two primary outcomes, infectious complications and POPF, were positively influenced by nutritional interventions. Preop-EN plus Postop-SEN (OR 0.11; 95% CI 0.02~0.72), Preop-IM (OR 0.22; 95% CI 0.08~0.62), and Preop-IM plus Postop-IM (OR 0.11; 95% CI 0.03~0.37) were all demonstrated to be associated with a decrease in infectious complications. Postop-TPN (OR 0.37; 95% CI 0.19~0.71) and Preop-IM plus Postop-IM (OR 0.21; 95% CI 0.06~0.77) were clinically beneficial for the prevention of POPF. While enteral feeding and TPN may decrease infectious complications and POPF, respectively, Preop-IM plus Postop-IM may provide the best clinical benefit for patients undergoing PD, as this approach decreases the incidence of both the aforementioned adverse effects.
The Role of Iron and Zinc in the Treatment of ADHD among Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review of Randomized Clinical Trials
Authors: Granero Roser , Pardo-Garrido Alfred , Carpio-Toro Ivonne Lorena , Ramírez-Coronel Andrés Alexis , Martínez-Suárez Pedro Carlos , Reivan-Ortiz Geovanny Genaro
Published: November 2021

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder common from childhood to adulthood, affecting 5% to 12% among the general population in developed countries. Potential etiological factors have been identified, including genetic causes, environmental elements and epigenetic components. Nutrition is currently considered an influencing factor, and several studies have explored the contribution of restriction and dietary supplements in ADHD treatments. Iron is an essential cofactor required for a number of functions, such as transport of oxygen, immune function, cellular respiration, neurotransmitter metabolism (dopamine production), and DNA synthesis. Zinc is also an essential trace element, required for cellular functions related to the metabolism of neurotransmitters, melatonin, and prostaglandins. Epidemiological studies have found that iron and zinc deficiencies are common nutritional deficits worldwide, with important roles on neurologic functions (poor memory, inattentiveness, and impulsiveness), finicky appetite, and mood changes (sadness and irritability). Altered levels of iron and zinc have been related with the aggravation and progression of ADHD. Objective: This is a systematic review focused on the contribution of iron and zinc in the progression of ADHD among children and adolescents, and how therapies including these elements are tolerated along with its effectiveness (according to PRISMA guidelines). Method: The scientific literature was screened for randomized controlled trials published between January 2000 to July 2021. The databases consulted were Medline, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Two independent reviewers screened studies, extracted data, and assessed quality and risk of bias (CONSORT, NICE, and Cochrane checklists used). Conclusion: Nine studies met the eligibility criteria and were selected. Evidence was obtained regarding the contribution of iron-zinc supplementation in the treatment of ADHD among young individuals. The discussion was focused on how the deficits of these elements contribute to affectation on multiple ADHD correlates, and potential mechanisms explaining the mediational pathways. Evidence also suggested that treating ADHD with diet interventions might be particularly useful for specific subgroups of children and adolescents, but further investigations of the effects of these diet interventions are needed.
Gut Microbiota and Mycobiota Evolution Is Linked to Memory Improvement after Bariatric Surgery in Obese Patients: A Pilot Study
Authors: Enaud Raphaël , Cambos Sophie , Viaud Esther , Guichoux Erwan , Chancerel Emilie , Marighetto Aline , Etchamendy Nicole , Clark Samantha , Mohammedi Kamel , Cota Daniela , Delhaes Laurence , Gatta-Cherifi Blandine
Published: November 2021

Patients with obesity are known to exhibit gut microbiota dysbiosis and memory deficits. Bariatric surgery (BS) is currently the most efficient anti-obesity treatment and may improve both gut dysbiosis and cognition. However, no study has investigated association between changes of gut microbiota and cognitive function after BS. We prospectively evaluated 13 obese patients on anthropometric data, memory functions, and gut microbiota-mycobiota before and six months after BS. The Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (AVLT) and the symbol span (SS) of the Weschler Memory Scale were used to assess verbal and working memory, respectively. Fecal microbiota and mycobiota were longitudinally analyzed by 16S and ITS2 rRNA sequencing respectively. AVLT and SS scores were significantly improved after BS (AVLT scores: 9.7 ± 1.7 vs. 11.2 ± 1.9, p = 0.02, and SS scores: 9.7 ± 23.0 vs. 11.6 ± 2.9, p = 0.05). An increase in bacterial alpha-diversity, and Ruminococcaceae, Prevotella, Agaricus, Rhodotorula, Dipodascus, Malassezia, and Mucor were significantly associated with AVLT score improvement after BS, while an increase in Prevotella and a decrease in Clostridium, Akkermansia, Dipodascus and Candida were linked to SS scores improvement. We identified several changes in the microbial communities that differ according to the improvement of either the verbal or working memories, suggesting a complex gut-brain-axis that evolves after BS.
The Contributions of Food Groups to the Daily Caloric Intake in Mongolian Population: A Mon-Timeline Study
Authors: Byambasukh Oyuntugs , Bayarmunkh Anar , Byambaa Agiimaa , Tuvshinjargal Anujin , Bor Delgermaa , Ganbaatar Urangoo , Dagvajantsan Byambasuren , Jadamba Tsolmon
Published: November 2021

(1) Background: The “Ger Recommendations” have been advised to promote a healthy diet in Mongolia. These recommendations emphasize the ratio of six macro-food components to ensure proper nutrition. In this study, the ratio of these six groups to the total daily caloric intake was determined. (2) Methods: This study was conducted as part of a study at the Clinical Cohort (“Mon-Timeline”) of the Mongolian National University of Medical Science. A macro-community ratio was calculated using a 24-h dietary recall diary of a total of 498 people. (3) Results: The mean age of the study participants was 43.9 ± 12.9 years. Among them, 21.8% (n = 110) were male. Of the total calories, 44.7% were grains, 29.2% were meat and protein products, 9.3% were fats, 7.1% were dairy products, 6.6% were vegetables, and 3.1% were fruits. According to the ratio of the six groups in the Ger Recommendations, meat and grains exceeded the recommended amount, while fruits, milk, and vegetables were consumed less. It has been observed that the older a person ages, the closer they are to following these recommendations. In terms of gender, women consumed more fruit and milk than men. (4) Conclusions: The ratio of macronutrients in the daily caloric intake of Mongolians is inadequate. Therefore, knowledge about the “Ger Recommendations” needs to be studied in relation to people’s healthy eating knowledge and attitudes. If necessary, the appropriate awareness needs to be increased to educate the public on proper eating habits.
Early-Life Exposure to Famine and Risk of Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease in Chinese Adults
Authors: Liu Jing , Wang Guimin , Wu Yiling , Guan Ying , Luo Zhen , Zhao Genming , Jiang Yonggen
Published: November 2021

Background: Early-life exposure to the Chinese famine has been related to the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease later in life. Nevertheless, the long-term impact of famine exposure on metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), a recently proposed term to describe liver disease associated with known metabolic dysfunction, remains unknown. The aim of our study was to explore the relationship between early famine exposure and MAFLD in adulthood. Methods: A total of 26,821 participants (10,994 men, 15,827 women) were recruited from a cohort study of Chinese adults in Shanghai. We categorized participants into four famine exposure subgroups based on the birth year as nonexposed (1963–1967), fetal-exposed (1959–1962), childhood-exposed (1949–1958), and adolescence-exposed (1941–1948). MAFLD was defined as liver steatosis detected by ultrasound plus one of the following three criteria: overweight/obesity, type 2 diabetes, or evidence of metabolic dysregulation. Multivariable logistic regression models were performed to examine the association between famine exposure and MAFLD. Results: The mean ± standard deviation age of the participants was 60.8 ± 6.8 years. The age-adjusted prevalence of MAFLD was 38.3, 40.8, 40.1, and 36.5% for the nonexposed, fetal-exposed, childhood-exposed, and adolescence-exposed subgroups, respectively. Compared with nonexposed participants, fetal-exposed participants showed an increased risk of adulthood MAFLD (OR = 1.10, 95% CI 1.00–1.21). The significant association between fetal famine exposure and MAFLD was observed in women (OR = 1.22, 95% CI 1.08–1.37), but not in men (OR = 0.88, 95% CI 0.75–1.03). In age-balanced analyses combining pre-famine and post-famine births as the reference, women exposed to famine in the fetal stage still had an increased risk of MAFLD (OR = 1.15, 95% CI 1.05–1.26). Conclusions: Prenatal exposure to famine showed a sex-specific association with the risk of MAFLD in adulthood.
Reply to Nifli, A.-P. Comment on “Rosell-Cardona et al. Dietary Spray-Dried Porcine Plasma Reduces Neuropathological Alzheimer’s Disease Hallmarks in SAMP8 Mice. Nutrients 2021, 13, 2369”
Authors: Rosell-Cardona Cristina , Griñan-Ferré Christian , Pérez-Bosque Anna , Polo Javier , Pallàs Mercè , Amat Concepció , Moretó Miquel , Miró Lluïsa
Published: November 2021

Thank you for your comments on our recent work of the effects of supplementation with spray-dried porcine plasma (SDP) on neuropathological markers of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) [...]
Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Other Lifestyle Factors in the Prevention of Cognitive Decline and Dementia
Authors: Dominguez Ligia J. , Veronese Nicola , Vernuccio Laura , Catanese Giuseppina , Inzerillo Flora , Salemi Giuseppe , Barbagallo Mario
Published: November 2021

Multiple factors combined are currently recognized as contributors to cognitive decline. The main independent risk factor for cognitive impairment and dementia is advanced age followed by other determinants such as genetic, socioeconomic, and environmental factors, including nutrition and physical activity. In the next decades, a rise in dementia cases is expected due largely to the aging of the world population. There are no hitherto effective pharmaceutical therapies to treat age-associated cognitive impairment and dementia, which underscores the crucial role of prevention. A relationship among diet, physical activity, and other lifestyle factors with cognitive function has been intensively studied with mounting evidence supporting the role of these determinants in the development of cognitive decline and dementia, which is a chief cause of disability globally. Several dietary patterns, foods, and nutrients have been investigated in this regard, with some encouraging and other disappointing results. This review presents the current evidence for the effects of dietary patterns, dietary components, some supplements, physical activity, sleep patterns, and social engagement on the prevention or delay of the onset of age-related cognitive decline and dementia.
Effects of Nutritional Interventions on Cardiovascular Disease Health Outcomes in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians: A Scoping Review
Authors: Porykali Bobby , Davies Alyse , Brooks Cassandra , Melville Hannah , Allman-Farinelli Margaret , Coombes Julieann
Published: November 2021

Nutrition interventions can support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). This review examines nutritional interventions aiming to improve CVD outcomes and appraises peer-reviewed interventions using an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Quality Appraisal Tool. Five electronic databases and grey literature were searched, applying no time limit. Two reviewers completed the screening, data extraction and quality assessment independently. The study quality was assessed using the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute and the Centre of Research Excellence in Aboriginal Chronic Disease Knowledge Translation and Exchange Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Quality Appraisal Tool (QAT). Twenty-one nutrition programs were included in this review. Twelve reported on anthropometric measurements, ten on biochemical and/or hematological measurements and sixteen on other outcome domains. Most programs reported improvements in measurable CVD risk factors, including reduced body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), weight, blood pressure and improved lipid profiles. Most programs performed well at community engagement and capacity strengthening, but many lacked the inclusion of Indigenous research paradigms, governance and strengths-based approaches. This review highlights the need for contemporary nutrition programs aimed at improving cardiovascular health outcomes to include additional key cultural components.
Prognostic Role of Malnutrition Diagnosed by Bioelectrical Impedance Vector Analysis in Older Adults Hospitalized with COVID-19 Pneumonia: A Prospective Study
Authors: Da Porto Andrea , Tascini Carlo , Peghin Maddalena , Sozio Emanuela , Colussi Gianluca , Casarsa Viviana , Bulfone Luca , Graziano Elena , De Carlo Chiara , Catena Cristiana , Sechi Leonardo A.
Published: November 2021

Background: Little is known on the clinical relevance of the nutritional status and body composition of patients hospitalized with SARS-CoV-2 infection. The aim of our study was to assess the prevalence of malnutrition in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia using bioelectrical impedance vector analysis (BIVA), and to evaluate the relationship of their nutritional status with the severity and outcome of disease. Methods: Among 150 consecutive patients who were hospitalized with COVID-19 pneumonia, 37 (24.3%) were classified as malnourished by BIVA, and were followed-up for 60 days from admission. Outcome measures were differences in the need for invasive mechanical ventilation, in-hospital mortality, and the duration of hospital stay in survivors. Results: During 60 days of follow-up, 10 (27%) malnourished patients and 13 (12%) non-malnourished patients required invasive mechanical ventilation (p = 0.023), and 13 (35%) malnourished patients and 9 (8%) non-malnourished patients died (p < 0.001). The average duration of the hospital stay in survivors was longer in patients with malnutrition (18.2 ± 15.7 vs. 13.2 ± 14.8 days, p < 0.001). In survival analyses, mechanical ventilation free (log-rank 7.887, p = 0.050) and overall (log-rank 17.886, p < 0.001) survival were significantly longer in non-malnourished than malnourished patients. The Cox proportional ratio showed that malnutrition was associated with an increased risk of mechanical ventilation (HR 4.375, p = 0.004) and death (HR 4.478, p = 0.004) after adjusting for major confounders such as age, sex, and BMI. Conclusions: Malnutrition diagnosed with BIVA was associated with worse outcomes in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 pneumonia.
Use of Stingless Bee Propolis and Geopropolis against Cancer—A Literature Review of Preclinical Studies
Authors: Pereira Francisco Assis Nascimento , Barboza Josianne Rocha , Vasconcelos Cleydlenne Costa , Lopes Alberto Jorge Oliveira , Ribeiro Maria Nilce de Sousa
Published: November 2021

Cancer is one of the major maladies affecting humankind and remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide. The investigation of the biological activities of stingless bee products, especially propolis and geopropolis, has revealed promising therapeutic properties, especially in the research on new antineoplastic agents. This literature review of preclinical trials, involving biological assays of antitumor activity and identification of the chemical composition of propolis and geopropolis of stingless bee species, describes the cytotoxicity in tumor lineages (breast, lung, ovarian, liver, mouth, pharynx, larynx, colon, stomach, colorectal, cervix, kidney, prostate, melanoma, human glioblastoma, canine osteosarcoma, erythroleukemia, human chronic myelocytic leukemia, and human promyelocytic leukemia) of propolis and geopropolis of 33 species of stingless bees. The chemical composition of propolis and geopropolis was identified, indicating that these belong to the chemical classes of phenolic acids, flavonoids, coumarins, benzophenones, anthraquinones, alkaloids, terpenes, steroids, saponins, fatty acids, and carbohydrates and are possibly responsible for the cytotoxicity in tumor cells. Apoptosis was one of the main mechanisms of cytotoxicity of extracts and substances isolated from stingless bee products. Although the results found are encouraging, other preclinical studies and clinical trials are essential for the discovery of new anticancer agents.
Antibacterial Activity of T22, a Specific Peptidic Ligand of the Tumoral Marker CXCR4
Authors: Serna Naroa , Carratalá José Vicente , Conchillo-Solé Oscar , Martínez-Torró Carlos , Unzueta Ugutz , Mangues Ramón , Ferrer-Miralles Neus , Daura Xavier , Vázquez Esther , Villaverde Antonio
Published: November 2021

CXCR4 is a cytokine receptor used by HIV during cell attachment and infection. Overexpressed in the cancer stem cells of more than 20 human neoplasias, CXCR4 is a convenient antitumoral drug target. T22 is a polyphemusin-derived peptide and an effective CXCR4 ligand. Its highly selective CXCR4 binding can be exploited as an agent for the cell-targeted delivery and internalization of associated antitumor drugs. Sharing chemical and structural traits with antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), the capability of T22 as an antibacterial agent remains unexplored. Here, we have detected T22-associated antimicrobial activity and biofilm formation inhibition over Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, in a spectrum broader than the reference AMP GWH1. In contrast to GWH1, T22 shows neither cytotoxicity over mammalian cells nor hemolytic activity and is active when displayed on protein-only nanoparticles through genetic fusion. Under the pushing need for novel antimicrobial agents, the discovery of T22 as an AMP is particularly appealing, not only as its mere addition to the expanding catalogue of antibacterial drugs. The recognized clinical uses of T22 might allow its combined and multivalent application in complex clinical conditions, such as colorectal cancer, that might benefit from the synchronous destruction of cancer stem cells and local bacterial biofilms.
Combined Use of Cyclodextrins and Amino Acids for the Development of Cefixime Oral Solutions for Pediatric Use
Authors: Cirri Marzia , Mennini Natascia , Nerli Giulia , Rubia Jessica , Casalone Enrico , Melani Fabrizio , Maestrelli Francesca , Mura Paola
Published: November 2021

Cefixime (CEF) is a cephalosporin included in the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines for Children. Liquid formulations are considered the best choice for pediatric use, due to their great ease of administration and dose-adaptability. Owing to its very low aqueous solubility and poor stability, CEF is only available as a powder for oral suspensions, which can lead to reduced compliance by children, due to its unpleasant texture and taste, and possible non-homogeneous dosage. The aim of this work was to develop an oral pediatric CEF solution endowed with good palatability, exploiting the solubilizing and taste-masking properties of cyclodextrins (CDs), joined to the use of amino acids as an auxiliary third component. Solubility studies indicated sulfobutylether-β-cyclodextrin (SBEβCD) and Histidine (His) as the most effective CD and amino acid, respectively, even though no synergistic effect on drug solubility improvement by their combined use was found. Molecular Dynamic and 1H-NMR studies provided insight into the interactions of binary CEF:His and ternary CEF:His:SBEβCD systems used to prepare CEF solutions, which resulted stable and maintained unchanged antimicrobial activity during the two-weeks-use in therapy. The ternary solution was superior in terms of more tolerable pH (5.6 vs. 4.7) and better palatability, being resulted completely odorless by a panel test.
Co-Delivery of mRNA and pDNA Using Thermally Stabilized Coacervate-Based Core-Shell Nanosystems
Authors: Nasr Sarah S. , Lee Sangeun , Thiyagarajan Durairaj , Boese Annette , Loretz Brigitta , Lehr Claus-Michael
Published: November 2021

Co-delivery of different species of protein-encoding polynucleotides, e.g., messenger RNA (mRNA) and plasmid DNA (pDNA), using the same nanocarrier is an interesting topic that remains scarcely researched in the field of nucleic acid delivery. The current study hence aims to explore the possibility of the simultaneous delivery of mRNA (mCherry) and pDNA (pAmCyan) using a single nanocarrier. The latter is based on gelatin type A, a biocompatible, and biodegradable biopolymer of broad pharmaceutical application. A core-shell nanostructure is designed with a thermally stabilized gelatin–pDNA coacervate in its center. Thermal stabilization enhances the core’s colloidal stability and pDNA shielding effect against nucleases as confirmed by nanoparticle tracking analysis and gel electrophoresis, respectively. The stabilized, pDNA-loaded core is coated with the cationic peptide protamine sulfate to enable additional surface-loading with mRNA. The dual-loaded core-shell system transfects murine dendritic cell line DC2.4 with both fluorescent reporter mRNA and pDNA simultaneously, showing a transfection efficiency of 61.4 ± 21.6% for mRNA and 37.6 ± 19.45% for pDNA, 48 h post-treatment, whereas established commercial, experimental, and clinical transfection reagents fail. Hence, the unique co-transfectional capacity and the negligible cytotoxicity of the reported system may hold prospects for vaccination among other downstream applications.
Influence of Source Parameters and Non-Kolmogorov Turbulence on Evolution Properties of Radial Phased-Locked Partially Coherent Vortex Beam Array
Authors: Wang Jiao , Wang Mingjun , Lei Sichen , Tan Zhenkun , Wang Chenbai , Wang Yuanfei
Published: November 2021

Partially coherent optical vortices have been applicated widely to reduce the influence of atmospheric turbulence, especially for free-space optical (FSO) communication. Furthermore, the beam array is an effective way to increase the power of the light source, and can increase the propagation distance of the FSO communication system. Herein, we innovatively report evolution properties of the radial phased-locked partially coherent vortex (RPLPCV) beam array in non-Kolmogorov turbulence. The analytical expressions for the cross-spectral density and the average intensity of an RPLPCV beam array propagated through non-Kolmogorov turbulence are obtained. The numerical results reveal that the intensity distribution of the RPLPCV array propagated in the non-Kolmogorov turbulence is gradually converted to a standard Gaussian distribution. In addition, the larger the radial radius, radial number and waist radius are, the smaller the coherence length is. Moreover, the longer the wavelength is, the shorter the propagation distance required for the intensity distribution of the RPLPCV beam array to be converted into a Gaussian distribution in the non-Kolmogorov turbulence. The research in this paper provides a theoretical reference for the selection of light sources and the suppression of turbulence effects in wireless optical communication.
Identifying and Evaluating Recirculation Strategies for Industry in the Nordic Countries
Authors: Hildenbrand Jutta , Dahlström Johan , Shahbazi Sasha , Kurdve Martin
Published: November 2021

The manufacturing industry in the Nordic countries aims to include closing product and material loops to recover values in their circular economy strategies. Recirculating strategies for products and materials are required for existing products that are part of the stock and are also anticipated to be aligned with products designed for circularity and circular business models in the future. Options to capture value of discarded products are diverse and include reuse, remanufacturing and material recycling. The Circular Economy Integration in the Nordic Industry for enhanced sustainability and competitiveness (CIRCit) project developed a framework to guide decision makers in the industry on how to identify suitable treatments and subsequent use at the end of use or end of life of a product and how to select among different options. Factors considered in the assessment include technical feasibility, necessary efforts, networks of business partners, legal implications and overall sustainability aspects. Our empirical studies show great support for decision-makers in the value recovery of different products with different complexity levels. It is also concluded that the properties of products at their end of use are the main drivers behind selecting a proper recirculation strategy. This study contributes with an empirical evaluation and a consistent terminology framework for recirculation options. The general setup is relevant for the Nordic countries.
A Dual Network for Super-Resolution and Semantic Segmentation of Sentinel-2 Imagery
Authors: Abadal Saüc , Salgueiro Luis , Marcello Javier , Vilaplana Verónica
Published: November 2021

There is a growing interest in the development of automated data processing workflows that provide reliable, high spatial resolution land cover maps. However, high-resolution remote sensing images are not always affordable. Taking into account the free availability of Sentinel-2 satellite data, in this work we propose a deep learning model to generate high-resolution segmentation maps from low-resolution inputs in a multi-task approach. Our proposal is a dual-network model with two branches: the Single Image Super-Resolution branch, that reconstructs a high-resolution version of the input image, and the Semantic Segmentation Super-Resolution branch, that predicts a high-resolution segmentation map with a scaling factor of 2. We performed several experiments to find the best architecture, training and testing on a subset of the S2GLC 2017 dataset. We based our model on the DeepLabV3+ architecture, enhancing the model and achieving an improvement of 5% on IoU and almost 10% on the recall score. Furthermore, our qualitative results demonstrate the effectiveness and usefulness of the proposed approach.
Properties of Cirrus Clouds over the European Arctic (Ny-Ålesund, Svalbard)
Authors: Nakoudi Konstantina , Ritter Christoph , Stachlewska Iwona S.
Published: November 2021

Cirrus is the only cloud type capable of inducing daytime cooling or heating at the top of the atmosphere (TOA) and the sign of its radiative effect highly depends on its optical depth. However, the investigation of its geometrical and optical properties over the Arctic is limited. In this work the long-term properties of cirrus clouds are explored for the first time over an Arctic site (Ny-Ålesund, Svalbard) using lidar and radiosonde measurements from 2011 to 2020. The optical properties were quality assured, taking into account the effects of specular reflections and multiple-scattering. Cirrus clouds were generally associated with colder and calmer wind conditions compared to the 2011–2020 climatology. However, the dependence of cirrus properties on temperature and wind speed was not strong. Even though the seasonal cycle was not pronounced, the winter-time cirrus appeared under lower temperatures and stronger wind conditions. Moreover, in winter, geometrically- and optically-thicker cirrus were found and their ice particles tended to be more spherical. The majority of cirrus was associated with westerly flow and westerly cirrus tended to be geometrically-thicker. Overall, optically-thinner layers tended to comprise smaller and less spherical ice crystals, most likely due to reduced water vapor deposition on the particle surface. Compared to lower latitudes, the cirrus layers over Ny-Ålesund were more absorbing in the visible spectral region and they consisted of more spherical ice particles.
A Neural Network-Based TEC Model Capable of Reproducing Nighttime Winter Anomaly
Authors: Adolfs Marjolijn , Hoque Mohammed Mainul
Published: November 2021

With the availability of fast computing machines, as well as the advancement of machine learning techniques and Big Data algorithms, the development of a more sophisticated total electron content (TEC) model featuring the Nighttime Winter Anomaly (NWA) and other effects is possible and is presented here. The NWA is visible in the Northern Hemisphere for the American sector and in the Southern Hemisphere for the Asian longitude sector under solar minimum conditions. During the NWA, the mean ionization level is found to be higher in the winter nights compared to the summer nights. The approach proposed here is a fully connected neural network (NN) model trained with Global Ionosphere Maps (GIMs) data from the last two solar cycles. The day of year, universal time, geographic longitude, geomagnetic latitude, solar zenith angle, and solar activity proxy, F10.7, were used as the input parameters for the model. The model was tested with independent TEC datasets from the years 2015 and 2020, representing high solar activity (HSA) and low solar activity (LSA) conditions. Our investigation shows that the root mean squared (RMS) deviations are in the order of 6 and 2.5 TEC units during HSA and LSA period, respectively. Additionally, NN model results were compared with another model, the Neustrelitz TEC Model (NTCM). We found that the neural network model outperformed the NTCM by approximately 1 TEC unit. More importantly, the NN model can reproduce the evolution of the NWA effect during low solar activity, whereas the NTCM model cannot reproduce such effect in the TEC variation.
Wind Speed Retrieval Algorithm Using Ku-Band Radar Onboard GPM Satellite
Authors: Panfilova Maria , Karaev Vladimir
Published: November 2021

The algorithm to retrieve wind speed in a wide swath from the normalized radar cross section (NRCS) was developed for the data of Dual Frequency Precipitation Radar (DPR) operating in scanning mode installed onboard a Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) satellite. The data for Ku-band radar were used. Equivalent NRCS values at nadir were estimated in a wide swath under the geometrical optics approximation from off-nadir observations. Using these equivalent NRCS nadir values and the sea buoys data, the new parameterization of dependence between NRCS at nadir and the wind speed was obtained. The algorithm was validated using ASCAT (Advanced Scatterometer) data and revealed good accuracy. DPR data are promising for determining wind speed in coastal areas.
Depths Inferred from Velocities Estimated by Remote Sensing: A Flow Resistance Equation-Based Approach to Mapping Multiple River Attributes at the Reach Scale
Authors: Legleiter Carl , Kinzel Paul
Published: November 2021

Remote sensing of flow conditions in stream channels could facilitate hydrologic data collection, particularly in large, inaccessible rivers. Previous research has demonstrated the potential to estimate flow velocities in sediment-laden rivers via particle image velocimetry (PIV). In this study, we introduce a new framework for also obtaining bathymetric information: Depths Inferred from Velocities Estimated by Remote Sensing (DIVERS). This approach is based on a flow resistance equation and involves several assumptions: steady, uniform, one-dimensional flow and a direct proportionality between the velocity estimated at a given location and the local water depth, with no lateral transfer of mass or momentum. As an initial case study, we performed PIV and inferred depths from videos acquired from a helicopter hovering at multiple waypoints along a large river in central Alaska. The accuracy of PIV-derived velocities was assessed via comparison to field measurements and the performance of an optimization-based approach to DIVERS was quantified by comparing calculated depths to those observed in the field. We also examined the ability of two variants of DIVERS to reproduce the discharge recorded at a gaging station. This analysis indicated that the accuracy of PIV-based velocity estimates varied considerably from hover to hover along the reach, with observed vs. predicted R2 values ranging from 0.22 to 0.97 and a median of 0.57. Calculated depths were also reasonably accurate, with median normalized biases from −4% to 9.9% for the two versions of DIVERS, but tended to be under-predicted in meander bends. Discharges were reproduced to within 1% and 4% when applying the optimization-based technique to individual hovers or reach-aggregated data, respectively. The results of this investigation suggest that, in addition to the velocity field derived via PIV, DIVERS could provide a plausible, first-order approximation to the reach-scale bathymetry. This framework could be refined by incorporating hydraulic processes that were not represented in the initial iteration of the approach described herein.
A New Lightweight Convolutional Neural Network for Multi-Scale Land Surface Water Extraction from GaoFen-1D Satellite Images
Authors: Duan Yueming , Zhang Wenyi , Huang Peng , He Guojin , Guo Hongxiang
Published: November 2021

Mapping land surface water automatically and accurately is closely related to human activity, biological reproduction, and the ecological environment. High spatial resolution remote sensing image (HSRRSI) data provide extensive details for land surface water and gives reliable data support for the accurate extraction of land surface water information. The convolutional neural network (CNN), widely applied in semantic segmentation, provides an automatic extraction method in land surface water information. This paper proposes a new lightweight CNN named Lightweight Multi-Scale Land Surface Water Extraction Network (LMSWENet) to extract the land surface water information based on GaoFen-1D satellite data of Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. To verify the superiority of LMSWENet, we compared the efficiency and water extraction accuracy with four mainstream CNNs (DeeplabV3+, FCN, PSPNet, and UNet) using quantitative comparison and visual comparison. Furthermore, we used LMSWENet to extract land surface water information of Wuhan on a large scale and produced the land surface water map of Wuhan for 2020 (LSWMWH-2020) with 2m spatial resolution. Random and equidistant validation points verified the mapping accuracy of LSWMWH-2020. The results are summarized as follows: (1) Compared with the other four CNNs, LMSWENet has a lightweight structure, significantly reducing the algorithm complexity and training time. (2) LMSWENet has a good performance in extracting various types of water bodies and suppressing noises because it introduces channel and spatial attention mechanisms and combines features from multiple scales. The result of land surface water extraction demonstrates that the performance of LMSWENet exceeds that of the other four CNNs. (3) LMSWENet can meet the requirement of high-precision mapping on a large scale. LSWMWH-2020 can clearly show the significant lakes, river networks, and small ponds in Wuhan with high mapping accuracy.
Event Detection for Distributed Acoustic Sensing: Combining Knowledge-Based, Classical Machine Learning, and Deep Learning Approaches
Authors: Bublin Mugdim
Published: November 2021

Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) is a promising new technology for pipeline monitoring and protection. However, a big challenge is distinguishing between relevant events, like intrusion by an excavator near the pipeline, and interference, like land machines. This paper investigates whether it is possible to achieve adequate detection accuracy with classic machine learning algorithms using simulations and real system implementation. Then, we compare classical machine learning with a deep learning approach and analyze the advantages and disadvantages of both approaches. Although acceptable performance can be achieved with both approaches, preliminary results show that deep learning is the more promising approach, eliminating the need for laborious feature extraction and offering a six times lower event detection delay and twelve times lower execution time. However, we achieved the best results by combining deep learning with the knowledge-based and classical machine learning approaches. At the end of this manuscript, we propose general guidelines for efficient system design combining knowledge-based, classical machine learning, and deep learning approaches.
Incorporating Clustering Techniques into GAMLSS
Authors: Ramires Thiago G. , Nakamura Luiz R. , Righetto Ana J. , Konrath Andréa C. , Pereira Carlos A. B.
Published: November 2021

A method for statistical analysis of multimodal and/or highly distorted data is presented. The new methodology combines different clustering methods with the GAMLSS (generalized additive models for location, scale, and shape) framework, and is therefore called c-GAMLSS, for “clustering GAMLSS. ” In this new extended structure, a latent variable (cluster) is created to explain the response-variable (target). Any and all parameters of the distribution for the response variable can also be modeled by functions of the new covariate added to other available resources (features). The method of selecting resources to be used is carried out in stages, a step-based method. A simulation study considering multiple scenarios is presented to compare the c-GAMLSS method with existing Gaussian mixture models. We show by means of four different data applications that in cases where other authentic explanatory variables are or are not available, the c-GAMLSS structure outperforms mixture models, some recently developed complex distributions, cluster-weighted models, and a mixture-of-experts model. Even though we use simple distributions in our examples, other more sophisticated distributions can be used to explain the response variable.
Innovative Structural Applications of High Performance Concrete Materials in Sustainable Construction
Authors: Minelli Fausto , Martinelli Enzo , Facconi Luca
Published: November 2021

It is well-known that concrete is the most widely utilised construction material in the world [...]
Quantifying National-Scale Changes in Agricultural Land Exposure to Fluvial Flooding
Authors: Craig Heather , Paulik Ryan , Djanibekov Utkur , Walsh Patrick , Wild Alec , Popovich Benjamin
Published: November 2021

This study quantifies the exposure of agricultural land in Aotearoa-New Zealand’s (A-NZ) flood hazard zones (FHZs). We developed a spatio-temporal flood exposure framework to quantify the extent of the area and yearly earnings before income and tax (EBIT) for arable, forestry, horticulture, sheep and beef, and dairy land in FHZs between 1990 and 2016. In 1990, ~1.57 million hectares of agricultural land were exposed, decreasing slightly to ~1.50 million hectares by 2016. However, there was a change in the lower-value types of agricultural land uses being exposed, such as for sheep and beef farming and forestry, toward dairy farming (from ~364,000 hectares in FHZs in 2008 to ~471,000 hectares in 2016). Dairy farming is more intensively staffed with larger amounts of fixed assets, making them less resilient to flood impacts. Despite this, conversion to dairy farming even within the identified FHZs has been driven by the increasing profitability of the enterprise. As a result of both the production value change and land area increases, the dairy EBIT values within FHZs rose rapidly from NZD 382 million to NZD 1.25 billion between 2008 and 2012, creating significantly more economic exposure for A-NZ. This trend is particularly evident in the Southland, Canterbury, and Waikato regions. Similarly, in the Marlborough, Tasman, and Hawke’s Bay regions, there was an increase in high-value horticultural land—predominantly viticulture—in FHZs (a increase of NZD 321 million in annual EBIT for exposed horticulture across the three regions). Identifying sub-national trends in agricultural flood exposure allows for a detailed analysis of the likely impacts in high-risk areas, which can inform emergency management plans and mitigative actions that diminish the economic impacts from flood events.
Long-Term Impact of Transhumance Pastoralism and Associated Disturbances in High-Altitude Forests of Indian Western Himalaya
Authors: Haq Shiekh Marifatul , Yaqoob Umer , Calixto Eduardo Soares , Kumar Manoj , Rahman Inayat Ur , Hashem Abeer , Abd_Allah Elsayed Fathi , Alakeel Maha Abdullah , Alqarawi Abdulaziz A. , Abdalla Mohnad , Lone Fayaz A. , Khan Muhammad Azhar , Khan Uzma , Ijaz Farhana
Published: November 2021

The Himalayan Mountains are geodynamical important, featuring a wide climatic range with a rich diversity of flora, fauna, human communities, culture, and social set-up. In recent decades, due to constant anthropogenic pressure and considerable changes witnessed in the climate of the region, species of this region are threatened. Here, we assessed the impact of nomadic settlement and associated disturbances on plant species composition, diversity parameters, ecosystem properties, and fire incidence in high-altitude forests of Western Himalaya, India. Based on the distance between nomadic settlement location and forest, we classified forest as near nomadic settlement (NNS) or away nomadic settlement (ANS) forest types. We found a significant variation in plant species composition between forest types. Three species, namely, Sibbaldia cuneata, Poa annua, and Abies pindrow, contribute 25% of the cumulative variation in plant species composition. Studying live plants, we found a significant difference only for density, in which ANS had a higher average density than NNS. Considering dead plants, we found a significant difference in all nine plant-related parameters evaluated between sites. NNS had a higher value of all parameters evaluated, except for height, which was higher in ANS sites. ANS forest type show 1.3 times more average carbon stock (160.39 ± 59.03 MgCha−1; mean ± SD) than NNS forest type (120.40 ± 51.74 MgCha−1). We found a significant difference in plant diversity evaluated between forest types. ANS had higher values of Margalef and Fisher diversity but lower values of evenness. We found that NSS had significantly higher values of fire incidences, whereas ANS has a higher normalized differential vegetation index and enhanced vegetation index. Overall, our study showed that species composition, diversity, and fire incidence are strongly impacted due to nomadic settlements. These findings are paramount for designing appropriate livelihood options for indigenous communities and management policies of the long-term forest harvest to achieve global goals and the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration targets (2021–2030) to protect the sustainable development of forest mountainous regions.
Associations among Outdoor Playtime, Screen Time, and Environmental Factors in Japanese Preschoolers: The ‘Eat, Be Active, and Sleep Well’ Study
Authors: Wang Qiang , Ma Jiameng , Harada Kenji , Kobayashi Shiho , Sano Hiroko , Kim Hyunshik
Published: November 2021

This cross-sectional study investigated regional differences in outdoor playtime and screen time among preschool-age children in Japan, and their associations with environmental factors, in order to identify the modifiable determinants of the differences between urban and rural areas. Data were obtained from the “Eat, be active, and sleep well” study. Children from three (n = 872) and five (n = 744) kindergartens in urban and rural regions of Japan, respectively, who completed a questionnaire survey, were sampled. Finally, data from 1128 participants (age: 3–5 years) were analyzed. To assess the environmental factors, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire was used for neighborhood environments; the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire was used for physical home environments; and a three-item questionnaire was used for sociocultural environments. Outdoor activity was significantly associated with items related to the mother’s sedentary time and the number of siblings/friends in both urban and rural regions. Screen time was associated with the mother’s screen time, television in the room, and esthetic qualities, which were consistent between urban and rural regions, while screen time was associated with night-time crime rates and traffic in the urban region. Our study further bolsters evidence suggesting that outdoor playtime and screen time are strongly associated with various environmental factors among Japanese preschool-age children.
Mining Method Optimization of Gently Inclined and Soft Broken Complex Ore Body Based on AHP and TOPSIS: Taking Miao-Ling Gold Mine of China as an Example
Authors: Guo Qinqiang , Yu Haoxuan , Dan Zhenyu , Li Shuai
Published: November 2021

The gently inclined thin to medium thickness ore body under a weak rock stratum is one of the typical difficult bodies to mine. In order to solve the fuzziness, randomness, and uncertainty in the process of mining method optimization for such ore bodies, a multi-level, multi-factor, multi-objective, and multi-index comprehensive evaluation system involving technology, economy, construction, and safety was constructed by combining the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS). Taking the Miao-ling gold mine in China as an example, the AHP-TOPSIS comprehensive decision model of mining method optimization is established, the comprehensive superiority degrees of the four mining schemes are 67.57%, 45.07%, 56.07%, and 31.63%, and the upward horizontal drift backfill mining method is determined as the optimal scheme. The method is verified in the actual production of the mine, which not only ensures the safe production of the mine, but also achieves better technical and economic effects. The research results provide a reference for the optimization of mining methods for gently inclined and soft broken complex ore bodies at home and abroad.