bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cooperation and Security: Examining the Political Discourse on Natural Gas Transit in Ukraine and Slovakia
Authors: Yakovenko Kateryna , Mišík Matúš
Published: November 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic appeared in the midst of developing the European Green Deal, the most ambitious project to decarbonise the EU’s economy to date. Among other issues, the project highlighted the challenges connected to the long-term role of natural gas as a fossil fuel in the European economy. Moreover, the changes to the gas architecture caused by the development of new import infrastructure (especially Nord Stream and its extension, which is currently under construction) put additional pressure on the transit countries, mainly of which are linked to the Brotherhood pipeline. These have been strong supporters of natural gas utilisation and harsh critics of new pipelines that circumvent their territories, as they consider energy transit to be an important part of their energy sectors. This research examines the political discourse on gas transit in Slovakia and Ukraine in order to identify the main arguments connected to these positions. The paper examines a total of 233 textual units from both countries for the period 2014–2018. It concludes that, while Ukraine sees transit predominantly through the lens of cooperation with the EU and other actors, the Slovak political discourse considers gas transit in terms of energy security and the availability of gas for the national economy.
Methodology for Quantifying the Energy Saving Potentials Combining Building Retrofitting, Solar Thermal Energy and Geothermal Resources
Authors: Soutullo Silvia , Giancola Emanuela , Sánchez María Nuria , Ferrer José Antonio , García David , Súarez María José , Prieto Jesús Ignacio , Antuña-Yudego Elena , Carús Juan Luís , Fernández Miguel Ángel , Romero María
Published: November 2020

New technological, societal and legislative developments are necessary to support transitions to low-carbon energy systems. The building sector is responsible for almost 36% of the global final energy and 40% of CO2 emissions, so this sector has high potential to contribute to the expansion of positive energy districts. With this aim, a new digital Geographic Information System (GIS) platform has been developed to quantify the energy savings obtained through the implementation of refurbishment measures in residential buildings, including solar thermal collectors and geothermal technologies and assuming the postal district as the representative unit for the territory. Solar resources have been estimated from recently updated solar irradiation maps, whereas geothermal resources have been estimated from geological maps. Urbanistic data have been estimated from official cadastre databases. For representative buildings, the annual energy demand and savings are obtained and compared with reference buildings, both for heating and cooling. The GIS platform provides information on average results for each postal district, as well as estimates for buildings with particular parameters. The methodology has been applied to the Asturian region, an area of about 10,600 km2 on the Cantabrian coast of Spain, with complex orography and scattered population, qualified as a region in energy transition. High rehabilitation potentials have been achieved for buildings constructed before the implementation of the Spanish Technical Building Code of 2006, being higher for isolated houses than for collective buildings. Some examples of results are introduced in specific localities of different climatic zones.
Factors Affecting Shale Gas Chemistry and Stable Isotope and Noble Gas Isotope Composition and Distribution: A Case Study of Lower Silurian Longmaxi Shale Gas, Sichuan Basin
Authors: Cao Chunhui , Li Liwu , Liu Yuhu , Du Li , Li Zhongping , He Jian
Published: November 2020

The Weiyuan (WY) and Changning (CN) fields are the largest shale gas fields in the Sichuan Basin. Though the shale gases in both fields are sourced from the Longmaxi Formation, this study found notable differences between them in molecular composition, carbon isotopic composition, and noble gas abundance and isotopic composition. CO2 (av. 0.52%) and N2 (av. 0.94%) were higher in Weiyuan than in Changning by an average of 0.45% and 0.70%, respectively. The δ13C1 (−26.9% to −29.7%) and δ13C2 (−32.0% to −34.9%) ratios in the Changning shale gases were about 8% and 6% heavier than those in Weiyuan, respectively. Both shale gases had similar 3He/4He ratios but different 40Ar/36Ar ratios. These geochemical differences indicated complex geological conditions and shed light on the evolution of the Lonmaxi shale gas in the Sichuan Basin. In this study, we highlight the possible impacts on the geochemical characteristics of gas due to tectonic activity, thermal evolution, and migration. By combining previous gas geochemical data and the geological background of these natural gas fields, we concluded that four factors account for the differences in the Longmaxi Formation shale gas in the Sichuan Basin: a) A different ratio of oil cracking gas and kerogen cracking gas mixed in the closed system at the high over-mature stage. b) The Longmaxi shales in WY and CN have had differential geothermal histories, especially in terms of the effects from the Emeishan Large Igneous Province (LIP), which have led to the discrepancy in evolution of the shales in the two areas. c) The heterogeneity of the Lower Silurian Longmaxi shales is another important factor, according to the noble gas data. d) Although shale gas is generated in closed systems, natural gas loss throughout geological history cannot be avoided, which also accounts for gas geochemical differences. This research offers some useful information regarding the theory of shale gas generation and evolution.
An Assessment of Different Integration Strategies of Hydrothermal Carbonisation and Anaerobic Digestion of Water Hyacinth
Authors: Brown Aaron E. , Adams Jessica M. M. , Grasham Oliver R. , Camargo-Valero Miller Alonso , Ross Andrew B.
Published: November 2020

Water hyacinth (WH) is an invasive aquatic macrophyte that dominates freshwater bodies across the world. However, due to its rapid growth rate and wide-spread global presence, WH could offer great potential as a biomass feedstock, including for bioenergy generation. This study compares different integration strategies of hydrothermal carbonisation (HTC) and anaerobic digestion (AD) using WH, across a range of temperatures. These include (i) hydrochar combustion and process water digestion, (ii) hydrochar digestion, (iii) slurry digestion. HTC reactions were conducted at 150 °C, 200 °C, and 250 °C. Separation of hydrochars for combustion and process waters for digestion offers the most energetically-feasible valorisation route. However, hydrochars produced from WH display slagging and fouling tendencies; limiting their use in large-scale combustion. AD of WH slurry produced at 150 °C appears to be energetically-feasible and has the potential to also be a viable integration strategy between HTC and AD, using WH.
An Integrated Prediction and Optimization Model of a Thermal Energy Production System in a Factory Producing Furniture Components
Authors: Akbaş Halil , Özdemir Gültekin
Published: November 2020

Thermal energy is an important input of furniture components production. A thermal energy production system includes complex, non-linear, and changing combustion processes. The main focus of this article is the maximization of thermal energy production considering the inbuilt complexity of the thermal energy production system in a factory producing furniture components. To achieve this target, a data-driven prediction and optimization model to analyze and improve the performance of a thermal energy production system is implemented. The prediction models are constructed with daily data by using supervised machine learning algorithms. Importance analysis is also applied to select a subset of variables for the prediction models. The modeling accuracy of prediction algorithms is measured with statistical indicators. The most accurate prediction result was obtained using an artificial neural network model for thermal energy production. The integrated prediction and optimization model is designed with artificial neural network and particle swarm optimization models. Both controllable and uncontrollable variables were used as the inputs of the maximization model of thermal energy production. Thermal energy production is increased by 4.24% with respect to the optimal values of controllable variables determined by the integrated optimization model.
Relationships between Dynamic Elastic Moduli in Shale Reservoirs
Authors: Omovie Sheyore John , Castagna John P.
Published: November 2020

Sonic log compressional and shear-wave velocities combined with logged bulk density can be used to calculate dynamic elastic moduli in organic shale reservoirs. We use linear multivariate regression to investigate modulus prediction when shear-wave velocities are not available in seven unconventional shale reservoirs. Using only P-wave modulus derived from logged compressional-wave velocity and density as a predictor of dynamic shear modulus in a single bivariate regression equation for all seven shale reservoirs results in prediction standard error of less than 1 GPa. By incorporating compositional variables in addition to P-wave modulus in the regression, the prediction standard error is reduced to less than 0.8 GPa with a single equation for all formations. Relationships between formation bulk and shear moduli are less well defined. Regressing against formation composition only, we find the two most important variables in predicting average formation moduli to be fractional volume of organic matter and volume of clay in that order. While average formation bulk modulus is found to be linearly related to volume fraction of total organic carbon, shear modulus is better predicted using the square of the volume fraction of total organic carbon. Both Young’s modulus and Poisson’s ratio decrease with increasing TOC while increasing clay volume decreases Young’s modulus and increases Poisson’s ratio.
Development of the Performance Prediction Equation for a Modular Ground Heat Exchanger
Authors: Kim Jaemin , Nam Yujin
Published: November 2020

Although ground source heat pump (GSHP) systems are more efficient than conventional air source heat pump (ASHP) systems, their high initial investment cost makes it difficult to introduce them into small buildings. Therefore, the development of a method for reducing the installation costs of GSHPs for small buildings is essential. This study proposes a modular ground heat exchanger (GHX) for cost reduction and an improved workability of GSHPs. In addition, a numerical model was constructed for the analysis of the performance of the modular GHX. However, to easily introduce the new GHX at the building design stage, the development of a performance prediction method for the introduction of modular GHXs to small buildings is necessary. Therefore, the entering water temperature (EWT) equation was derived from the calculation methods in the heat transfer process, and the ground temperature model was developed in consideration of the operation condition. The numerical results showed that the average values of EWT and ground temperature were 8.11 °C and 8.00 °C, respectively under an average ambient temperature of 0.42 °C. In addition, the performance prediction model was compared with the numerical results. The results showed that the coefficient of variation of the root mean square error (RMSE) of the ground temperature and EWT model were 5.20% and 1.33%, respectively.
A Hybrid Optimization Approach for Power Loss Reduction and DG Penetration Level Increment in Electrical Distribution Network
Authors: Beza Teketay Mulu , Huang Yen-Chih , Kuo Cheng-Chien
Published: November 2020

The electrical distribution system has experienced a number of important changes due to the integration of distributed and renewable energy resources. Optimal integration of distributed generators (DGs) and distribution network reconfiguration (DNR) of the radial network have significant impacts on the power system. The main aim of this study is to optimize the power loss reduction and DG penetration level increment while keeping the voltage profile improvements with in the permissible limit. To do so, a hybrid of analytical approach and particle swarm optimization (PSO) are proposed. The proposed approach was tested on 33-bus and 69-bus distribution networks, and significant improvements in power loss reduction, DG penetration increment, and voltage profile were achieved. Compared with the base case scenario, power loss was reduced by 89.76% and the DG penetration level was increased by 81.59% in the 69-bus test system. Similarly, a power loss reduction of 82.13% and DG penetration level increment of 80.55% was attained for the 33-bus test system. The simulation results obtained are compared with other methods published in the literature.
Performance Analysis of IEC 61850 Messages in LTE Communication for Reactive Power Management in Microgrids
Authors: Hussain S. M. Suhail , Aftab Mohd Asim , Ustun Taha Selim
Published: November 2020

Reactive power management in microgrids with high penetration of distributed renewable energy sources (DRESs) is challenging. The intermittent generation of DRES makes the power management cumbersome. Generally, Flexible AC Transmission System (FACTS) devices such as Distribution Static Compensator (DSTATCOM) are employed for reactive power compensation in microgrids. However, for effective results in microgrids, coordinated operation between DSTATCOM and Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) is required. In this paper, IEC 61850 communication is proposed for realizing coordinated operation between microgrid controller (MGCC), DSTATCOM and DERs. In microgrids, there may be large number of DERs dispersed over a large area. Hence, the underlying communication network technology for IEC 61850 communication must be highly scalable with wide range. Recently developed communication technology Long Term Evolution (LTE) is a promising solution since it offers high data rates, reliability, scalability and longer range. In this paper, the developed IEC 61850 based reactive power management system is tested with the LTE technology and the performance evaluation tests have been performed. Firstly, IEC 61850 messages have been mapped on LTE stack to enable their transmission. Then, simulations over a network emulator have been performed to evaluate the performance of IEC 61850 communication message exchanges over LTE network in terms of End to End (ETE) delays.
A Simplified Algorithm to Predict Indoor Microclimate in Case of Courtyard Covering. A Case Study for the Courtyard of Palazzo Poggi in Bologna
Authors: Gaspari Jacopo , Fabbri Kristian , Vodola Vincenzo , Ferretti Giorgia , Indio Lorenzo
Published: November 2020

The renovation or the functional transformation of existing stock to meet the new comfort standards and energy demand reduction often requires comparing alternative technological options and designing solutions especially when it involves historical buildings where the main goal is usually to preserve the original image and value of the building. The paper reports a study regarding the potential covering of the inner courtyard of Palazzo Poggi in Bologna with a roof to create an intermediate new space between outdoors and indoors to be used all year long. The study is particularly focused on the definition of a simplified algorithm to predict and evaluate the annual temperature trend of the court, once it has been covered, assuming some geometrical and thermal characteristics of the roof. The paper describes the calculation algorithm and its application on the Palazzo Poggi case study where a covering in EFTE (ethylen-tetrafluorethylen) membrane is supposed to be created.
AT-Text: Assembling Text Components for Efficient Dense Scene Text Detection
Authors: Li Haiyan , Lu Hongtao
Published: November 2020

Text detection is a prerequisite for text recognition in scene images. Previous segmentation-based methods for detecting scene text have already achieved a promising performance. However, these kinds of approaches may produce spurious text instances, as they usually confuse the boundary of dense text instances, and then infer word/text line instances relying heavily on meticulous heuristic rules. We propose a novel Assembling Text Components (AT-text) that accurately detects dense text in scene images. The AT-text localizes word/text line instances in a bottom-up mechanism by assembling a parsimonious component set. We employ a segmentation model that encodes multi-scale text features, considerably improving the classification accuracy of text/non-text pixels. The text candidate components are finely classified and selected via discriminate segmentation results. This allows the AT-text to efficiently filter out false-positive candidate components, and then to assemble the remaining text components into different text instances. The AT-text works well on multi-oriented and multi-language text without complex post-processing and character-level annotation. Compared with the existing works, it achieves satisfactory results and a considerable balance between precision and recall without a large margin in ICDAR2013 and MSRA-TD 500 public benchmark datasets.
Comparative Effects of Flaxseed Sources on the Egg ALA Deposition and Hepatic Gene Expression in Hy-Line Brown Hens
Authors: Shahid Muhammad Suhaib , Raza Tausif , Wu Yuqin , Hussain Mangi Mazhar , Nie Wei , Yuan Jianmin
Published: November 2020

Healthy diets are necessary for both humans and animals, including poultry. These diets contain various nutrients for maintenance and production in laying hens. Therefore, research was undertaken to explore the efficiency of various dietary flaxseed sources on the n-3 deposition in the egg yolk and gene expression in laying hens. Five dietary groups were analyzed, i.e., (i) a corn-based diet with no flaxseed (FS) as a negative control (NC), (ii) a wheat-based diet supplemented with 10% whole FS without multi-carbohydrase enzymes (MCE) as a positive control (PC), (iii) ground FS supplemented with MCE (FS), (iv) extruded flaxseed meal was supplemented with MCE (EFM), (v) flaxseed oil supplemented with MCE (FSO). Results indicated that egg weight was highest in the NC, FS, EFM, and FSO groups as compared to PC in the 12th week. Egg mass was higher in enzyme supplemented groups as compared to the PC group, but lower than NC. In the 12th week, the HDEP (hen day egg production) was highest in the FS and EFM groups as compared to FSO, PC, and NC. The FCR (feed conversion ratio) was better in enzyme supplemented groups as compared to the PC group. Enzyme addition enhanced the egg quality as compared to PC in the 12th week. The HDL-C (high-density lipoprotein cholesterol) was increased, while LDL-C (low-density lipoprotein cholesterol), VLDL-C (very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol), TC (total cholesterol), and TG (total triglycerides) were reduced in the enzyme supplemented groups as compared to PC and NC. The FSO deposit more n-3 PUFA and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in the egg yolk as compared to FS and EFM groups. The expression of ACOX1, LCPT1, FADS1, FADS2, and ELOV2 genes were upregulated, while PPAR-α was downregulated in the FSO group. The LPL mRNA expression was upregulated in the FS, EFM, and FSO groups as compared to the PC and NC groups. It was inferred that FSO with enzymes at 2.5% is cost-effective, improves the hen performances, upregulated the fatty acid metabolism and β-oxidation genes expression, and efficiently deposits optimal n-3 PUFA in the egg as per consumer’s demand.
Combined Effect of Dietary Protein, Ractopamine, and Immunocastration on Boar Taint Compounds, and Using Testicle Parameters as an Indicator of Success
Authors: Needham Tersia , Gous Rob M. , Lambrechts Helet , Pieterse Elsje , Hoffman Louwrens C.
Published: November 2020

This study investigates the combined effect of immunocastration, dietary protein level (low, medium or high) and ractopamine hydrochloride supplementation (0 or 10 mg/kg) on the adipose concentrations of androstenone, skatole and indole in pigs, and explores whether body mass, carcass fatness or testicular parameters may be indicators of boar taint in these carcasses. Immunocastration was successful in decreasing testicle functioning, and adipose androstenone and skatole concentrations, in all individuals. Immunocastration decreased testicle weight and length, seminiferous tubule circumference and epithelium thickness. Testicle tissue from immunocastrates was also paler, and less red in color, in comparison to non-castrated controls. Dietary protein level and ractopamine hydrochloride supplementation had no influence on the adipose concentration of androstenone, skatole and indole. Testicle size and color were moderate to strong indicators of androstenone and skatole concentrations in the carcasses, and thus vaccination success. Immunocastration together with the adjustment of dietary protein and ractopamine hydrochloride supplementation, is successful in preventing boar taint while maintaining growth performance.
Country and Gender Differences in the Color Association with Energy Drinks: A Survey in Taiwanese and Japanese Students
Authors: Tanei Shigeharu , Chu Wen-Tseng , Okamura Toshimitsu , Chen Fu-Shih , Nagakura Yukinori
Published: November 2020

This study investigated differences in the color association with energy drinks between two populations in different cultures, i.e., Taiwanese and Japanese. An anonymous, self-administered paper questionnaire was administered to first- and second-year students at National Taiwan Normal University (Taiwan) and Naragakuen University (Japan). In our inter-country, gender-stratified comparison, the color selected most often in response to the question, “What color comes to your mind for energy drink label?” was red for the Taiwanese and blue for the Japanese. The color associations with energy drinks selected by 20% or more participants in at least one population and showing statistical difference were extracted as noticeable difference. The present study demonstrates that the color and energy drink functions are closely associated. Specifically, yellow and nourishment, black and stimulant, yellow and vitamin supplement, green and dietary fiber supplement, and red and iron supplement are tightly associated regardless of the country. The strong tie between cosmetic and white is specific to the Taiwanese consumers. This suggests that careful color selection based on consumers’ environmental and cultural backgrounds is important in communicating information regarding energy drink functions. It would be worth for energy drink manufacturers to consider those associations in designing labels for products.
Legume Flour or Bran: Sustainable, Fiber-Rich Ingredients for Extruded Snacks?
Authors: Proserpio Cristina , Bresciani Andrea , Marti Alessandra , Pagliarini Ella
Published: November 2020

The impact of using legume flour and bran on both sensory and texture properties in extruded, sustainable snack formulations was investigated. Sensory attributes determining consumer preference or rejection of legume-based snacks, as well as food neophobia and food technology neophobia were also explored. Seven samples of extruded snacks (R = 100% rice flour; C = 100% chickpea flour; P = 100% green pea flour; C30 = 30% chickpea bran and 70% rice flour; C15 = 15% chickpea bran and 85% rice flour; P30 = 30% green pea bran and 70% rice flour; P15 = 15% green pea bran and 85% rice flour) were subjected to the three-point bend method using a TA.XT plus texture analyzer. Seventy-two subjects (42 women; aged = 29.6 ± 9.3 years) evaluated the samples for liking and sensory properties by means of the check-all-that-apply (CATA) method. The sample made with 100% rice flour obtained the lowest liking scores, and it was not considered acceptable by the consumers. Samples P, C, C15, and P15 were the preferred ones. Crumbliness and mild flavor attributes positively influenced hedonic scores, whereas stickiness, dryness, hardness, and to a lesser extent, visual aspect affected them negatively. Neophilic and neutral subjects preferred the snacks compared with the neophobic ones, while no differences in liking scores were found regarding food technology neophobia. Extruded snacks with legume flour and bran were moderately accepted by consumers involved in the present study, albeit to a lesser extent for neophobic subjects, and could represent an interesting sustainable source of fiber and high-value proteins, as well as a valuable alternative to gluten-free foods present on the market.
Mesoporous Adsorbents for Desulfurization of Model Diesel Fuel: Optimization, Kinetic, and Thermodynamic Studies
Authors: Botana-de la Cruz Anakaren , Boahene Philip E. , Vedachalam Sundaramurthy , Dalai Ajay K. , Adjaye John
Published: November 2020

Mesoporous alumina-based adsorbents consisting of a π-electron acceptor complexing agent (2,7-dinitro-9-fluorenone) were synthesized and characterized. Adsorbents were screened for the removal of sulfur compounds from a model ultra-low-sulfur diesel fuel via a charge transfer complex (CTC) mechanism. The sulfur adsorption isotherms and kinetics were examined. The kinetics of sulfur adsorption followed a pseudo-second-order model with the CTC adsorbents. Among the three adsorbents screened, a commercial γ-Al2O3 CTC adsorbent showed the highest desulfurization in a short-run period. The regeneration of spent adsorbent was studied with three different polar solvents, namely chloroform, dichloromethane, and carbon tetrachloride. Dichloromethane was found to be the most suitable solvent for extracting a major portion of sulfur compounds occupied in the pores of the spent adsorbent. γ-Al2O3 CTC adsorbent can be reused after regeneration. Thermodynamic parameters such as Ea, ΔG, ΔH, and ΔS provided a better insight into the adsorption process.
Pediatric Ulcerative Colitis in Kazakhstan: First Case Series from Central Asia and Current Clinical Management
Authors: Poddighe Dimitri , Telman Aigerim , Tuleutayev Ernas , Ibrayeva Aigul
Published: November 2020

The diagnoses of ulcerative colitis have increased in pediatric patients in the last two decades. Whereas there are several reports from most areas of the world, no clinical studies describing the clinical management of pediatric ulcerative colitis are currently available from Central Asia. In this article, we first describe a case series of pediatric patients affected with ulcerative colitis in Kazakhstan. This is a retrospective study including 25 consecutive pediatric patients diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in a tertiary pediatric hospital. The available demographic, clinical, hematological and inflammatory parameters at diagnosis and at the first one-year follow-up have been provided and analyzed. Most pediatric patients diagnosed with ulcerative colitis were older than 12 years, with prevalence of male gender. The analysis of clinical, laboratory, endoscopic parameters at the diagnosis suggested a significant diagnostic delay compared to developed countries; however, most of them showed clinical, laboratory and endoscopic improvements at the one-year follow-up. Even though the therapeutic approach and outcomes resulted to be consistent with other clinical studies from developed countries, several aspects of the medical follow-up should be improved, especially in pediatric patients with extensive disease.
The Genetic Structure of Chinese Hui Ethnic Group Revealed by Complete Mitochondrial Genome Analyses Using Massively Parallel Sequencing
Authors: Chen Chong , Li Yuchun , Tao Ruiyang , Jin Xiaoye , Guo Yuxin , Cui Wei , Chen Anqi , Yang Yue , Zhang Xingru , Zhang Jingyi , Li Chengtao , Zhu Bofeng
Published: November 2020

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), coupled with maternal inheritance and relatively high mutation rates, provides a pivotal way for us to investigate the formation histories of populations. The Hui minority with Islamic faith is one of the most widely distributed ethnic groups in China. However, the exploration of Hui’s genetic architecture from the complete mitochondrial genome perspective has not been detected yet. Therefore, in this study, we employed the complete mitochondrial genomes of 98 healthy and unrelated individuals from Northwest China, as well as 99 previously published populations containing 7274 individuals from all over the world as reference data, to comprehensively dissect the matrilineal landscape of Hui group. Our results demonstrated that Hui group exhibited closer genetic relationships with Chinese Han populations from different regions, which was largely attributable to the widespread of haplogroups D4, D5, M7, B4, and F1 in these populations. The demographic expansion of Hui group might occur during the Late Pleistocene. Finally, we also found that Hui group might have gene exchanges with Uygur, Tibetan, and Tajik groups in different degrees and retain minor genetic imprint of European-specific lineages, therefore, hinting the existence of multi-ethnic integration events in shaping the genetic landscape of Chinese Hui group.
Identification of Milk Fat Metabolism-Related Pathways of the Bovine Mammary Gland during Mid and Late Lactation and Functional Verification of the ACSL4 Gene
Authors: Fan Yongliang , Han Ziyin , Lu Xubin , Zhang Huimin , Arbab Abdelaziz Adam Idriss , Loor Juan J. , Yang Yi , Yang Zhangping
Published: November 2020

The concentration of bovine milk fat changes regularly with lactation stages. In particular, milk fat percentage is higher in late lactation than mid lactation. Furthermore, milk fat composition is highly subject to a few genes. Thus, transcriptome sequencing was performed to explore the expression patterns of differentially-expressed genes (DEGs) in the parenchymal mammary gland of Holstein dairy cows between mid and late lactation. The 725 DEGs were screened (fold change > 2 and p-value < 0.05), and the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) signaling pathway associated with lipid synthesis had a significant variation between the two periods (p-value < 0.05). The activation of the PPAR signal pathway may a key factor in the increasing of milk fat content in late lactation compared to mid lactation. Acyl-CoA synthetase long-chain family member 4 (ACSL4), a member of the PPAR signaling pathway, was upregulated in late lactation compared to mid lactation (p < 0.05). ACSL4 catalyzes the activation of long-chain fatty acids for cellular lipid synthesis. However, it remains uncertain that the molecular mechanism of milk fat synthesis is regulated by ACSL4 in dairy cows. Subsequently, the function verification of ACSL4 was performed in bovine mammary epithelial cells (BMECs). The upregulated expression of ACSL4 was accompanied by the increase of the concentration of intracellular triglycerides, whereas knockdown of ACSL4 decreased the concentration of intracellular triglycerides, which demonstrated that ACSL4 plays an important role in modulating milk fat synthesis. In conclusion, the results displayed that ACSL4 expression regulates triglyceride metabolism in ruminant mammary cells.
Correction: Reisser, C.M.O. et al. Population Connectivity and Genetic Assessment of Exploited and Natural Populations of Pearl Oysters within a French Polynesian Atoll Lagoon. Genes 2020, 11, 426
Authors: Reisser Céline M. O. , Gendre Romain Le , Chupeau Cassandre , Lo-Yat Alain , Planes Serge , Andréfouët Serge
Published: November 2020

The authors wish to make the following corrections to this paper [...]
Virtual Restoration and Visualization Changes through Light: A Review
Authors: Gómez Manzanares Ángela , Benítez Anto J. , Martínez Antón Juan Carlos
Published: November 2020

The virtual modification of the appearance of an object using lighting technologies has become very important in recent years, since the projection of light on an object allows us to alter its appearance in a virtual and reversible way. Considering the limitation of non-contact when analysing a work of art, these optical techniques have been used in fields of restoration of cultural heritage, allowing us to visualize the work as it was conceived by its author, after a process of acquisition and treatment of the image. Furthermore, the technique of altering the appearance of objects through the projection of light has been used in projects with artistic or even educational purposes. This review has treated the main studies of light projection as a technique to alter the appearance of objects, emphasizing the calibration methods used in each study, taking into account the importance of a correct calibration between devices to carry out this technology. In addition, since the described technique consists of projecting light, and one of the applications is related to cultural heritage, those studies that carry out the design and optimization of lighting systems will be described for a correct appreciation of the works of art, without altering its state of conservation.
Feasibility of a Tai Chi with Thera-Band Training Program: A Pilot Study
Authors: Qi Meiling , Moyle Wendy , Jones Cindy , Weeks Benjamin
Published: November 2020

Tai Chi, combined with Thera-band (TCTB) exercise may be associated with an improvement in health where it increases physical fitness, improves psychological well-being, and decreases pain. This paper aimed to determine the feasibility of TCTB exercise in older sedentary office workers. Forty office workers aged over 55 years participated in a pilot randomized controlled trial (i.e., 12-week TCTB exercise or Tai Chi exercise only). Feasibility of the TCTB exercise approach was ascertained through the recruitment and enrolment rate, acceptability of the study intervention by participants including retention and adherence rates, participants’ learning process, the appropriateness of data collection as well as the participants’ evaluation of the intervention. Recruitment took longer than planned, with a low recruitment rate of 2.0% (42/2020), but a high enrolment rate of 95.2% (40/42). Thirty-one participants (i.e., 77.5%) completed the intervention. Of those who completed the trial, the overall average attendance was reported as 85.2%; 84.7% in the TCTB group and 85.7% in the Tai Chi only group. A total of 58.3% of participants (n = 21) could independently practice the TCTB or Tai Chi exercise motions at the end of the learning stage. There were no missing data except for the nine participants who withdrew during the intervention. No adverse events or effects were reported, and all participants were satisfied with the 12-week exercise intervention. Results support the feasibility of a large-scale randomized controlled trial to explore the efficacy of a TCTB program for improving health in older sedentary office workers.
Influence of Health Related Fitness on the Morphofunctional Condition of Second Mature Aged Women
Authors: Podrihalo Olha , Savina Svetlana , Podrigalo Leonid , Iermakov Sergii , Jagiełło Władysław , Rydzik Łukasz , Błach Wiesław
Published: November 2020

To analyze the influence of health-related fitness on the condition of second mature aged women. Participants: 65 women divided into two groups. Group 1–40 women, (43.33 ± 0.93) years old and group 2–25 women (44.40 ± 0.93) years old. The participants trained for 8 months, three times a week for 1 h. Group 1 trained dance aerobics (Monday), strength fitness (Wednesday) and stretching (Friday). Group 2 trained only stretching. The body length and mass, handgrip strength test, vital capacity, blood pressure, heart rate, Stange and Genchi tests, and motion amplitude in joints were evaluated before and after the program. The significance of the differences between the groups was evaluated by Student’s criterion (t) and Rosenbaum (Q). The different intensity of the health-related effect was confirmed at the end of the program. Physiometric indicators significantly increased in group 1. The complex physical activity led to a decrease in heart rate. The results of the Stange and Genchi tests significantly increased. Goniometric indicators of group 2 increased. The comparative analysis of the participants indicators confirms the generalized and higher health-related effect of the complex fitness program. The effect of such a program showed an increase of the adaptive potential, a significant increase in the functional capabilities of women, and the optimization of the studied indicators. With the same time expenditure for health-related fitness, the complex program has a more multifaceted effect in comparison with stretching.
Research Trends in Green Product for Environment: A Bibliometric Perspective
Authors: Bhardwaj Amit Kumar , Garg Arunesh , Ram Shri , Gajpal Yuvraj , Zheng Chengsi
Published: November 2020

The term “green products” is used commonly to describe the products that seek to protect or enhance the environment during production, use, or disposal by conserving resources and minimizing the use of toxic agents, pollution, and waste. Hence, green products offer potential benefits to the environment and human health. Therefore, environmentally conscious consumers have shown an enhanced inclination for them. Consumer preferences, environmental activism, and stringent regulations have forced sustainability-oriented firms to shift their focus to producing green products. The present study uses bibliometric tools and various indicators to discern research progress in the field of green products over the period 1964–2019. Further, VOSviewer software is applied to map the main trends. A total of 1619 publications during the study period were extracted from the SCOPUS database using different keywords related to the green products. The data analysis indicates that the field of green products has experienced significant growth since 1964, especially in the last 14 years. In terms of publications and citations, the United States is the leading country. The field of research concerning green products has evolved from the early debates on sustainable design, green marketing, sustainable development, and sustainability. The topic seems to be advancing into a variety of green themes related to consumer trust and purchase intentions, branding and loyalty, and environmental and health consciousness.
Older Adult Segmentation According to Residentially-Based Lifestyles and Analysis of Their Needs for Smart Home Functions
Authors: Yu Jiyeon , de Antonio Angelica , Villalba-Mora Elena
Published: November 2020

Globally, the percentage of older people in the general population is growing. Smart homes have the potential to help older adults to live independently and healthy, improving their quality of life, and relieving the pressure on the healthcare and social care systems. For that, we need to understand how older adults live and their needs. Thus, this study aims to analyze the residentially-based lifestyles (RBL) of older adults and segment them to compare and analyze the real needs of smart home functions for each group. To identify a person’s RBL, a questionnaire was designed to include questions about activities at home, social events, quality of life, etc. This study surveyed 271 older Koreans. As a result of the survey on RBL, five groups with different characteristics were clustered. Finally, each groups’ features and the differences in their needs for smart home functions were compared and analyzed. The priority of needed functions for each group was found to be significantly different. In a total of 26 smart home functions, there were meaningful differences in the needs for 16 functions among the groups. This study presents the results in South Korea, according to older adults’ RBL and their smart home needs.
Towards a Functional Approach to the Assessment of Daily Life Physical Activity in Children: Are the PAQ-C and Fitbit Flex-2 Technically Adequate?
Authors: Venetsanou Fotini , Emmanouilidou Kyriaki , Soutos Konstantinos , Sotiriou Sofoklis A. , Bastida Leire , Moya Ana , Kambas Antonis
Published: November 2020

Considering the need for functional physical activity (PA) measures in PA settings, this study sought to determine the technical adequacy of the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Older Children (PAQ-C) and the Fitbit Flex-2, two instruments with promising features for wide use, using the Actigraph GT3X+ accelerometer as the criterion reference. A total of 218 Greek children (94 boys, 124 girls; mean age = 10.99 ± 1.52 years) volunteered to join in. Participants wore the PA trackers for seven days and completed the PAQ-C. Moreover, a sub-group (n = 60) recompleted the PAQ-C after a week. Results revealed acceptable internal consistency and excellent test–retest reliability for the PAQ-C. Regarding concurrent validity, weak to moderate correlations with PA parameters recorded by the GT3X+ were revealed for the total PAQ-C and were excellent for the Flex-2, while a Bland–Altman plot indicated good agreement. Finally, in alignment with relevant literature, significant gender, but no age, differences were found in participants’ PA records in all the tools applied. The above results support the use of the PAQ-C and the Fitbit Flex-2 in children. Considering that they shed light into different parameters of children’s habitual PA, their combined utilisation, providing comprehensive information, is strongly recommended.
Equity to Urban Parks for Elderly Residents: Perspectives of Balance between Supply and Demand
Authors: Guo Meng , Liu Bingxi , Tian Yu , Xu Dawei
Published: November 2020

As population ages, ensuring that the elderly get their due rights has become a common concern of scholars in many fields. However, as an important public service facility in daily life of elderly, the research on the equity of urban parks is mostly based on the evaluation of accessibility. The equity of the elderly's access to urban parks services has been rarely discussed from the perspective of supply and demand balance. In the context of the concept of spatial equity, we used urban parks in the main city of Harbin as a case study, the actual travel mode of the elderly was considered in the evaluation, adopted an Integrated Spatial Equity Evaluation (ISEE) framework, quantitative evaluation of the equity of different levels of urban park under multiple traffic modes. In this study, the results showed that under the three modes of travel, the degree of spatial equity was higher for non-motorized trips than for the other two modes. In terms of urban parks hierarchy, the spatial equity of urban parks at district level were much higher than those at the neighborhood level and street level. The inequity between supply and demand for urban park for elderly people was significant and varies between administrative districts. The empirical evidence in this research may provide references and suggestions for urban parks planning and decision-making. In cities where the scale of land use is basically stable, such as Harbin, we can start from the spatial configuration of park green space system and public transportation system to improve the efficiency of urban parks provision. Thereby promoting the construction and development of an “old age-friendly” society.
Exploring Vector-Borne Disease Surveillance and Response Systems in Beijing, China: A Qualitative Study from the Health System Perspective
Authors: Lock-Wah-Hoon Jerome , Zheng Yang , Braks Marieta , van Asten Liselotte , Liu Qiyong , Sushama Preeti , Doreleijers Simone , Krafft Thomas , van der Hoek Wim , Fanoy Ewout , Wang Quanyi , Pilot Eva
Published: November 2020

Background: Climate change may contribute to higher incidence and wider geographic spread of vector borne diseases (VBDs). Effective monitoring and surveillance of VBDs is of paramount importance for the prevention of and timely response to outbreaks. Although international regulations exist to support this, barriers and operational challenges within countries hamper efficient monitoring. As a first step to optimise VBD surveillance and monitoring, it is important to gain a deeper understanding of system characteristics and experiences in to date non-endemic regions at risk of becoming endemic in the future. Therefore, this study qualitatively analyses the nature and flexibility of VBD surveillance and response in Beijing. Methods: In this qualitative study, eleven experts working in Beijing’s vector-borne diseases surveillance and response system were interviewed about vector-borne disease surveillance, early warning, response, and strengths and weaknesses of the current approach. Results: Vector-borne disease surveillance occurs using passive syndromic surveillance and separate vector surveillance. Public health authorities use internet reporting networks to determine vector-borne disease risk across Beijing. Response toward a vector-borne disease outbreak is uncommon in this setting due to the currently low occurrence of outbreaks. Conclusions: A robust network of centralised institutions provides the continuity and flexibility needed to adapt and manage possible vector-borne disease threats. Opportunities exist for population-based health promotion and the integration of environment and climate monitoring in vector-borne disease surveillance.
Climate Change, Water Quality and Water-Related Challenges: A Review with Focus on Pakistan
Authors: Ahmed Toqeer , Zounemat-Kermani Mohammad , Scholz Miklas
Published: November 2020

Climate variability is heavily impacting human health all around the globe, in particular, on residents of developing countries. Impacts on surface water and groundwater resources and water-related illnesses are increasing, especially under changing climate scenarios such as diversity in rainfall patterns, increasing temperature, flash floods, severe droughts, heatwaves and heavy precipitation. Emerging water-related diseases such as dengue fever and chikungunya are reappearing and impacting on the life of the deprived; as such, the provision of safe water and health care is in great demand in developing countries to combat the spread of infectious diseases. Government, academia and private water bodies are conducting water quality surveys and providing health care facilities, but there is still a need to improve the present strategies concerning water treatment and management, as well as governance. In this review paper, climate change pattern and risks associated with water-related diseases in developing countries, with particular focus on Pakistan, and novel methods for controlling both waterborne and water-related diseases are discussed. This study is important for public health care, particularly in developing countries, for policy makers, and researchers working in the area of climate change, water quality and risk assessment.
Feeling Stressed and Ugly? Leave the City and Visit Nature! An Experiment on Self- and Other-Perceived Stress and Attractiveness Levels
Authors: Menzel Claudia , Dennenmoser Fiona , Reese Gerhard
Published: November 2020

Natural environments, compared to urban environments, usually lead to reduced stress and positive body appreciation. We assumed that walks through nature and urban environments affect self- and other-perceived stress and attractiveness levels. Therefore, we collected questionnaire data and took photographs of male participants’ faces before and after they took walks. In a second step, female participants rated the photographs. As expected, participants felt more restored and attractive, and less stressed after they walked in nature compared to an urban environment. A significant interaction of environment (nature, urban) and time (pre, post) indicated that the men were rated by the women as being more stressed after the urban walk. Other-rated attractiveness levels, however, were similar for both walks and time points. In sum, we showed that the rather stressful experience of a short-term urban walk mirrors in the face of men and is detectable by women.