bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incubation of Negative Affect during Protracted Alcohol Withdrawal Is Age-, but Not Sex-Selective
Authors: Jimenez Chavez C. Leonardo , Coelho Michal A. , Brewin Lindsey W. , Swauncy Isaiah , Tran Tori , Albanese Taylor , Laguna Angie , Gabriela Ivette , Szumlinski Karen K.
Published: June 2020

A prior history of excessive drinking induces a negative affective state in both humans and laboratory rodents, the manifestation of which varies with the age of drinking-onset. In adolescent male mice, negative affect incubates over the course of a 30-day alcohol withdrawal period. In contrast, the negative affect exhibited by adult male mice is robust at 1 day withdrawal, but dissipates with the passage of time. As females tend to consume more alcohol than males, we aimed to explore the affective disturbances exhibited by adolescent and adult C57BL/6J mice of both sexes during more protracted alcohol withdrawal and to relate any behavioral changes observed to plasma corticosterone levels as a biochemical index of stress. Male and female, adolescent and adult, mice were subjected to 14 consecutive days of binge alcohol-drinking using a multi-bottle-choice Drinking-in-the-Dark (DID) procedure (5, 10, 20 and 40% v/v). Age- and sex-matched control mice consumed water only. On either withdrawal day 1 or 70, subgroups of animals were subjected a to 1-day behavioral test battery that included the light–dark box shuttle test, marble-burying test, and Porsolt forced swim test. As expected, adolescent mice consumed more alcohol than adults and females consumed more alcohol than males. However, despite binge-like levels of alcohol consumption, we detected relatively few signs of alcohol withdrawal-induced negative affect and there was no correlation between affective behavior and circulating corticosterone levels. We discuss these findings within the context of our published work, highlighting procedural differences that might account for the relatively weak effect of binge-drinking history upon anxiety and depressive-like behavior observed herein.
Effect of Surface Modification on the Primary Stability of Dental Implants by Plasma Oxidation and Storage Treatment
Authors: Sun Fei , Li Shao-Jie , Li Xin-Chang , Wang Lei , Ba De-Chun , Song Gui-Qiu , Sun Chuan-Sheng , Lin Zeng
Published: June 2020

Plasma oxidation could produce an oxidized surface, resulting in a graded TiO2−x film layer and significantly improving dental implant hydrophilicity and biocompatibility. Unfortunately, these features are gradually lost by the influence of the environment. In this study, alkali storage was used to improve these characteristics at room temperature. Titanium samples were divided into sandblasting acid-etching (SLA), oxidation (SLA samples that were oxidized), and storage (SLA samples that were oxidized and stored in 0.1 mol/L NaOH solution) groups. We measured the surface properties of each group, including the roughness, chemical composition, and hydrophilicity of these materials. We investigated the effects of titanium storage on cell responses, including cell attachment, proliferation, differentiation. We also investigated the osseointegration of the stored titanium implants. The results showed that the storage process maintains the superhydrophilic properties of oxidation treatment. Oxidized samples promoted cell responses. The descending order of biocompatibility was storage > oxidation > SLA. Furthermore, oxidation and alkali storage had significant effects on bone growth at the early stage of the implant. These results suggested that alkali storage can suitably maintain the surface characteristics of plasma oxidation, and the combination of oxidation and storage treatment can improve the primary implant stability.
Effect of Doping on the Electrical Characteristics of ZnSe
Authors: Singh Narsingh , Su Ching-Hua , Choa Fow-Sen , Arnold Bradley , Gill Puneet , Su Charmain , Emge Ian , Sood Rachit
Published: June 2020

The effect of sulfur, iron, and chromium doping on the electrical characteristics of ZnSe single crystals was studied. The crystals, grown by the physical vapor transport method (PVT) at NASA Marshall Space Flight Center, were characterized by measuring electrical resistivity, capacitance, and dielectric constant using LCR meter. The morphology was studied by scanning electron microscopy to determine the crystallinity and micro defects. The measured resistivity and dielectric constant showed tunability as the function of frequency in the range of 100 Hz to 100,000 Hz, indicating the suitability of doped material for tuning devices. Besides, for the range from 50 mV to 1000mV, there was no difference in values for the studied frequency range, indicating no degradation or breakdown in the material. All doped ZnSe crystals with sulfur, iron, and chromium showed a similar trend as the function of frequency. Cr-ZnSe showed very high resistivity and lower dielectric constant compared to S-ZnSe and Fe-ZnSe crystals.
A Conceptual Framework to Support Digital Transformation in Manufacturing Using an Integrated Business Process Management Approach
Authors: Butt Javaid
Published: June 2020

Digital transformation is no longer a future trend, as it has become a necessity for businesses to grow and remain competitive in the market. The fourth industrial revolution, called Industry 4.0, is at the heart of this transformation, and is supporting organizations in achieving benefits that were unthinkable a few years ago. The impact of Industry 4.0 enabling technologies in the manufacturing sector is undeniable, and their correct use offers benefits such as improved productivity and asset performance, reduced inefficiencies, lower production and maintenance costs, while enhancing system agility and flexibility. However, organizations have found the move towards digital transformation extremely challenging for several reasons, including a lack of standardized implementation protocols, emphasis on the introduction of new technologies without assessing their role within the business, the compartmentalization of digital initiatives from the rest of the business, and the large-scale implementation of digitalization without a realistic view of return on investment. To instill confidence and reduce the anxiety surrounding Industry 4.0 implementation in the manufacturing sector, this paper presents a conceptual framework based on business process management (BPM). The framework is informed by a content-centric literature review of Industry 4.0 technologies, its design principles, and BPM method. This integrated framework incorporates the factors that are often overlooked during digital transformation and presents a structured methodology that can be employed by manufacturing organizations to facilitate their transition towards Industry 4.0.
Utilization of Multiparametric MRI of Prostate in Patients under Consideration for or Already in Active Surveillance: Correlation with Imaging Guided Target Biopsy
Authors: Yu Jinxing , Fulcher Ann S. , Winks Sarah , Turner Mary A. , Behl William , Ware Anna Lee , Mukhopadhyay Nitai D. , Kim Candice , Jackson Christopher , Bajaj Harnek S. , Hampton Lance J.
Published: June 2020

This study sought to assess the value of multiparametric magnetic resonance image (mp-MRI) in patients with a prostate cancer (PCa) Gleason score of 6 or less under consideration for or already in active surveillance and to determine the rate of upgrading by target biopsy. Three hundred and fifty-four consecutive men with an initial transrectal ultrasound-guided (TRUS) biopsy-confirmed PCa Gleason score of 6 or less under clinical consideration for or already in active surveillance underwent mp-MRI and were retrospectively reviewed. One hundred and nineteen of 354 patients had cancer-suspicious regions (CSRs) at mp-MRI. Each CSR was assigned a Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS) score based on PI-RADS v2. One hundred and eight of 119 patients underwent confirmatory imaging-guided biopsy for CSRs. Pathology results including Gleason score (GS) and percentage of specimens positive for PCa were recorded. Associations between PI-RADS scores and findings at target biopsy were evaluated using logistic regression. At target biopsy, 81 of 108 patients had PCa (75%). Among them, 77 patients had upgrading (22%, 77 of 354 patients). One hundred and forty-six CSRs in 108 patients had PI-RADS 3 n = 28, 4 n = 66, and 5 n = 52. The upgraded rate for each category of CSR was for PI-RADS 3 (5 of 28, 18%), 4 (47 of 66, 71%) and 5 (49 of 52, 94%). Using logistic regression analysis, differences in PI-RADS scores from 3 to 5 are significantly associated with the probability of disease upgrade (20%, 73%, and 96% for PI-RADS score of 3, 4, and 5, respectively). Adding mp-MRI to patients under consideration for or already in active surveillance helps to identify undiagnosed PCa of a higher GS or higher volume resulting in upgrading in 22%.
Gas Hydrate Combustion in Five Method of Combustion Organization
Authors: Misyura Sergey Y. , Manakov Andrey Yu. , Nyashina Galina S. , Gaidukova Olga S. , Morozov Vladimir S. , Skiba Sergey S.
Published: June 2020

Experiments on the dissociation of a mixed gas hydrate in various combustion methods are performed. The simultaneous influence of two determining parameters (the powder layer thickness and the external air velocity) on the efficiency of dissociation is studied. It has been shown that for the mixed hydrate, the dissociation rate under induction heating is 10–15 times higher than during the burning of a thick layer of powder, when the combustion is realized above the layer surface. The minimum temperature required for the initiation of combustion for different combustion methods was studied. As the height of the sample layer increases, the rate of dissociation decreases. The emissions of NOx and CO for the composite hydrate are higher than for methane hydrate at the same temperature in a muffle furnace. A comparison of harmful emissions during the combustion of gas hydrates with various types of coal fuels is presented. NOx concentration as a result of the combustion of gas hydrates is tens of times lower than when burning coal fuels. Increasing the temperature in the muffle furnace reduces the concentration of combustion products of gas hydrates.
Verification Method of Safety Properties of Embedded Assembly Program by Combining SMT-Based Bounded Model Checking and Reduction of Interrupt Handler Executions
Authors: Yamane Satoshi , Kobashi Junpei , Uemura Kosuke
Published: June 2020

Embedded software has properties dependent on hardware (direct operation of address spaces, memory mapped I/O, interruption, etc.). Therefore, demands about the established method of formal verifications corresponding to those properties are increasing from the point of view of shorter development and high reliability. Our study aims at enabling a formal verification with Satisfiability Modulo Theories-Based Bounded Model Checking (SMT-Based BMC) of safety for embedded assembly codes. Our proposed method generates models of assembly codes in detail with the fixed-sized bit-vectors theory. The models generated by our method include interrupts, and the size of the models is reduced using Interrupt Handler Execution Reduction (IHER) technique. In this paper, we have developed the verification method of safety properties of embedded assembly program by combining SMT-Based Bounded Model Checking and Reduction of Interrupt Handler Executions. Moreover, we show the evaluation of our method by experiments using prototype model checker.
Applications of Virtual Reality in Engineering and Product Design: Why, What, How, When and Where
Authors: Berni Aurora , Borgianni Yuri
Published: June 2020

The research on the use of virtual reality (VR) in the design domain has been conducted in a fragmentary way so far, and some misalignments have emerged among scholars. In particular, the actual support of VR in early design phases and the diffusion of practices involving VR in creative design stages are argued. In the present paper, we reviewed VR applications in design and categorized each of the collected 86 sources into multiple classes. These range from supported design functions to employed VR technologies and the use of systems complementing VR. The identified design functions include not only design activities traditionally supported by VR, such as 3D modelling, virtual prototyping, and product evaluation, but also co-design and design education beyond the early design phases. The possibility to support early design phases by means of VR is mirrored by the attention on products that involve an emotional dimension beyond functional aspects, which are particularly focused on in virtual assemblies and prototypes. Relevant matches between VR technologies and specific design functions have been individuated, although a clear separation between VR devices and supported design tasks cannot be claimed.
Analysis of Relaxation Time of Temperature in Thermal Response Test for Design of Borehole Size
Authors: Chae Hobyung , Nagano Katsunori , Sakata Yoshitaka , Katsura Takao , Serageldin Ahmed A. , Kondo Takeshi
Published: June 2020

A new practical method for thermal response test (TRT) is proposed herein to estimate the groundwater velocity and effective thermal conductivity of geological zones. The relaxation time of temperature (RTT) is applied to determine the depths of the zones. The RTT is the moment when the temperature in the borehole recovers to a certain level compared with that when the heating is stopped. The heat exchange rates of the zones are calculated from the vertical temperature profile measured by the optical-fiber distributed temperature sensors located in the supply and return sides of a U-tube. Finally, the temperature increments at the end time of the TRT are calculated according to the groundwater velocities and the effective thermal conductivity using the moving line source theory applied to the calculated heat exchange rates. These results are compared with the average temperature increment data measured from each zone, and the best-fitting value yields the groundwater velocities for each zone. Results show that the groundwater velocities for each zone are 2750, 58, and 0 m/y, whereas the effective thermal conductivities are 2.4, 2.4, and 2.1 W/(m∙K), respectively. The proposed methodology is evaluated by comparing it with the realistic long-term operation data of a ground source heat pump (GSHP) system in Kazuno City, Japan. The temperature error between the calculated results and measured data is 6.4% for two years. Therefore, the proposed methodology is effective for estimating the long-term performance analysis of GSHP systems.
An Overview of the Building Energy Management System Considering the Demand Response Programs, Smart Strategies and Smart Grid
Authors: Shakeri Mohammad , Pasupuleti Jagadeesh , Amin Nowshad , Rokonuzzaman Md. , Low Foo Wah , Yaw Chong Tak , Asim Nilofar , Samsudin Nurul Asma , Tiong Sieh Kiong , Hen Chong Kok , Lai Chin Wei
Published: June 2020

Electricity demand is increasing, as a result of increasing consumers in the electricity market. By growing smart technologies such as smart grid and smart energy management systems, customers were given a chance to actively participate in demand response programs (DRPs), and reduce their electricity bills as a result. This study overviews the DRPs and their practices, along with home energy management systems (HEMS) and load management techniques. The paper provides brief literature on HEMS technologies and challenges. The paper is organized in a way to provide some technical information about DRPs and HEMS to help the reader understand different concepts about the smart grid, and be able to compare the essential concerns about the smart grid. The article includes a brief discussion about DRPs and their importance for the future of energy management systems. It is followed by brief literature about smart grids and HEMS, and a home energy management system strategy is also discussed in detail. The literature shows that storage devices have a huge impact on the efficiency and performance of energy management system strategies.
Sub- and Supercritical Water Liquefaction of Kraft Lignin and Black Liquor Derived Lignin
Authors: Lappalainen Jukka , Baudouin David , Hornung Ursel , Schuler Julia , Melin Kristian , Bjelić Saša , Vogel Frédéric , Konttinen Jukka , Joronen Tero
Published: June 2020

To mitigate global warming, humankind has been forced to develop new efficient energy solutions based on renewable energy sources. Hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) is a promising technology that can efficiently produce bio-oil from several biomass sources. The HTL process uses sub- or supercritical water for producing bio-oil, water-soluble organics, gaseous products and char. Black liquor mainly contains cooking chemicals (mainly alkali salts) lignin and the hemicellulose parts of the wood chips used for cellulose digestion. This review explores the effects of different process parameters, solvents and catalysts for the HTL of black liquor or black liquor-derived lignin. Using short residence times under near- or supercritical water conditions may improve both the quality and the quantity of the bio-oil yield. The quality and yield of bio-oil can be further improved by using solvents (e.g., phenol) and catalysts (e.g., alkali salts, zirconia). However, the solubility of alkali salts present in black liquor can lead to clogging problem in the HTL reactor and process tubes when approaching supercritical water conditions.
Quadratically Constrained Quadratic Programming Formulation of Contingency Constrained Optimal Power Flow with Photovoltaic Generation
Authors: Leon Luis M. , Bretas Arturo S. , Rivera Sergio
Published: June 2020

Contingency Constrained Optimal Power Flow (CCOPF) differs from traditional Optimal Power Flow (OPF) because its generation dispatch is planned to work with state variables between constraint limits, considering a specific contingency. When it is not desired to have changes in the power dispatch after the contingency occurs, the CCOPF is studied with a preventive perspective, whereas when the contingency occurs and the power dispatch needs to change to operate the system between limits in the post-contingency state, the problem is studied with a corrective perspective. As current power system software tools mainly focus on the traditional OPF problem, having the means to solve CCOPF will benefit power systems planning and operation. This paper presents a Quadratically Constrained Quadratic Programming (QCQP) formulation built within the matpower environment as a solution strategy to the preventive CCOPF. Moreover, an extended OPF model that forces the network to meet all constraints under contingency is proposed as a strategy to find the power dispatch solution for the corrective CCOPF. Validation is made on the IEEE 14-bus test system including photovoltaic generation in one simulation case. It was found that in the QCQP formulation, the power dispatch calculated barely differs in both pre- and post-contingency scenarios while in the OPF extended power network, node voltage values in both pre- and post-contingency scenarios are equal in spite of having different power dispatch for each scenario. This suggests that both the QCQP and the extended OPF formulations proposed, could be implemented in power system software tools in order to solve CCOPF problems from a preventive or corrective perspective.
A Novel Method for Thermal Modelling of Photovoltaic Modules/Cells under Varying Environmental Conditions
Authors: Abdulrazzaq Ali Kareem , Plesz Balázs , Bognár György
Published: June 2020

Temperature has a significant effect on the photovoltaic module output power and mechanical properties. Measuring the temperature for such a stacked layers structure is impractical to be carried out, especially when we talk about a high number of modules in power plants. This paper introduces a novel thermal model to estimate the temperature of the embedded electronic junction in modules/cells as well as their front and back surface temperatures. The novelty of this paper can be realized through different aspects. First, the model includes a novel coefficient, which we define as the forced convection adjustment coefficient to imitate the module tilt angle effect on the forced convection heat transfer mechanism. Second, the new combination of effective sub-models found in literature producing a unique and reliable method for estimating the temperature of the PV modules/cells by incorporating the new coefficient. In addition, the paper presents a comprehensive review of the existing PV thermal sub-models and the determination expressions of the related parameters, which all have been tested to find the best combination. The heat balance equation has been employed to construct the thermal model. The validation phase shows that the estimation of the module temperature has significantly improved by introducing the novel forced convection adjustment coefficient. Measurements of polycrystalline and amorphous modules have been used to verify the proposed model. Multiple error indication parameters have been used to validate the model and verify it by comparing the obtained results to those reported in recent and most accurate literature.
Experimental Investigation of the Impacts of Fracturing Fluid on the Evolution of Fluid Composition and Shale Characteristics: A Case Study of the Niutitang Shale in Hunan Province, South China
Authors: Tan Jingqiang , Li Guolai , Hu Ruining , Li Lei , Lyu Qiao , Dick Jeffrey
Published: June 2020

Hydraulic fracturing is a widely used technique for oil and gas extraction from ultra-low porosity and permeability shale reservoirs. During the hydraulic fracturing process, large amounts of water along with specific chemical additives are injected into the shale reservoirs, causing a series of reactions the influence the fluid composition and shale characteristics. This paper is focused on the investigation of the geochemical reactions between shale and fracturing fluid by conducting comparative experiments on different samples at different time scales. By tracking the temporal changes of fluid composition and shale characteristics, we identify the key geochemical reactions during the experiments. The preliminary results show that the dissolution of the relatively unstable minerals in shale, including feldspar, pyrite and carbonate minerals, occurred quickly. During the process of mineral dissolution, a large number of metal elements, such as U, Pb, Ba, Sr, etc., are released, which makes the fluid highly polluted. The fluid–rock reactions also generate many pores, which are mainly caused by dissolution of feldspar and calcite, and potentially can enhance the extraction of shale gas. However, precipitation of secondary minerals like Fe-(oxy) hydroxides and CaSO4 were also observed in our experiments, which on the one hand can restrict the migration of metal elements by adsorption or co-precipitation and on the other hand can occlude the pores, therefore influencing the recovery of hydrocarbon. The different results between the experiments of different samples revealed that mineralogical texture and composition strongly affect the fluid-rock reactions. Therefore, the identification of the shale mineralogical characteristics is essential to formulate fracturing fluid with the lowest chemical reactivity to avoid the contamination released by flowback waters.
Interaction of Biochar Type and Rhizobia Inoculation Increases the Growth and Biological Nitrogen Fixation of Robinia pseudoacacia Seedlings
Authors: Sun Qiaoyu , Liu Yong , Liu Hongbin , Dumroese R. Kasten
Published: June 2020

Adding biochar to soil can change soil properties and subsequently affect plant growth, but this effect can vary because of different feedstocks and methods (e.g., pyrolysis or gasification) used to create the biochar. Growth and biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) of leguminous plants can be improved with rhizobia inoculation that fosters nodule development. Thus, this factorial greenhouse study examined the effects of two types of biochar (i.e., pyrolysis and gasification) added at a rate of 5% (v:v) to a peat-based growth substrate and rhizobia inoculation (yes or no) on Robinia pseudoacacia (black locust) seedlings supplied with 15NH415NO3. Seedling and nodule growth, nitrogen (N) content, and δ15N × 1000 were evaluated after 3 months. While addition of biochar without inoculation had no effect on seedling growth, inoculation with rhizobia increased seedling growth, BNF, and N status. Inoculated seedlings had reduced δ15N, indicating that N provided via fertilization was being diluted by N additions through BNF. Biochar type and inoculation interacted to affect seedling growth. Combining inoculation with either biochar type increased seedling leaf, stem, and total biomass, whereas gasifier biochar and inoculation improved all seedling growth variables and nodule biomass.
Morphology and Material Composition of the Mouthparts of Stromatium unicolor Olivier 1795 (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) for Bionic Application
Authors: Martínez Roberto D. , Basterra Luis-Alfonso , Acuña Luis , Balmori José-Antonio
Published: June 2020

Research Highlights: The novelty of this study is the deep analysis of the morphologic, geometric and mechanical performance of longhorn beetle larvae mouthparts. Furthermore, a metal nano identification of jaw reinforced parts was made. Background and Objectives: Analysis of insect mechanical properties has shown an important application in the develop of bionic technologies such as new materials, industrial machines and structural concepts. This study aims to determine the mechanical and geometric properties of longhorn beetle (Stromatium unicolor Olivier 1795) larvae mouthparts to improve the development of innovative cutting tools. In addition, this study obtains a nano identification of metals in the cuticle of the mouthparts, which will enable the development of new nontoxic and sustainable preservation agents against xylophagous insects based on nanoparticles. Materials and Methods: five third-larval-stage samples of Stromatium unicolor were used to study its mandible morphologic, geometric and mechanical properties. To this end, mouthparts were analyzed by several microscopic techniques using a scanning electron microscope, a stereomicroscope and an optical microscope. Composition analysis was performed using with two Analytical-Inca X-ray detectors, dispersive energy spectroscopy and dispersive wavelength spectroscopy. Results: The main geometric parameters of the insect jaw are the edge angle (β = 77.3°), maximum path depth of the insect (120 μm), length (800 µm) and mouthpart movement, which were identified and measured. The chemical analysis results of the jaw tissues shows the presence of zinc and manganese. Conclusions: The geometry and angles of the mouthparts can be applied in the fabrication of bionic self-sharpening cutting tools. Molecular compounds that form the reinforcing elements in the jaws can be used to develop wood preservatives based on nanometals and metal absorption and metabolism inhibitors.
Temporal Progress of Candeia Rust Caused by Puccinia velata in Clonal Candeia Plantation (Eremanthus erythropappus (DC.) McLeisch)
Authors: Pereira Renata C. M. , Ferreira Maria A. , Soares Thaissa P. F. , Andrade Mario F. C. M. , Filho Cézar A. L. , Pozza Edson A. , Avelar Maria L. M. , Melo Lucas A.
Published: June 2020

The temporal progress of candeia rust, caused by the fungus Puccinia velata, was monitored in an experimental field at Lavras municipality, Southern Minas Gerais state, Brazil. A plantation with 17 Eremanthus erythropappus clones was set at the site, and the temporal disease progress was analyzed based on visual assessments of disease severity on leaves. The disease was monitored monthly between September 2016 and August 2017. Progress curves based on disease severity were constructed and empirical models were fitted. The area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC) was calculated, and the means test was applied to select clones resistant to the disease. The Pearson coefficient was used to assess correlations between disease severity and environmental variables. The model that best described disease progress over the assessment period was the Gompertz model. The mean AUDPC values were grouped into four groups of resistance levels according to the Scott–Knott test. There was a negative correlation between air temperature and disease severity. Considering that the disease occurred in all clones and that the climatic conditions of Southern Minas Gerais are favorable to the candeia rust, it is important to adopt measures for the selection of clones resistant to this disease.
Determination of Selenium in Common and Selenium-Rich Rice from Different Areas in China and Assessment of Their Dietary Intake
Authors: Zhang Liuquan , Guo Yanbin , Liang Kehong , Hu Zhongqiu , Sun Xiangdong , Fang Yong , Mei Xiaohong , Yin Hongqing , Liu Xianjin , Lu Baiyi
Published: June 2020

In this study, 41 common rice varieties and 211 selenium-rich rice varieties from ten representative areas in China were collected in 2017–2019. The selenium contents of rice were analyzed with optimized inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Selenium concentrations of common rice and selenium-rich rice ranges were 0.81–7.26 and 0.76–180.73 µg/100 g, respectively. The selenium contents in selenium-rich rice from different areas were significantly different (p < 0.001) while those in common rice from different areas were not. The selenium-rich rice in Harbin and Keshan showed the lowest selenium level and those from selenium-rich areas (Enshi and Ankang) were highest. Based on the estimation of the risk assessment software @risk7.0 (Palisade Corporation, New York, NY, USA), the consumption of selenium-rich rice can effectively increase dietary selenium intake for the population. However, the risk index of P95 (Percentile 95) selenium exposure at the tolerable upper intake level for children at 2–14 years old exceeded 100%, with potential risk currently. Therefore, the consumption of selenium-rich rice should be properly monitored for young children and adolescents.
“Too Much to Ask, Too Much to Handle”: Women’s Coping in Times of Zika
Authors: Linde Arias Ana Rosa , Tristan-Cheever Elisa , Furtado Grace , Siqueira Eduardo
Published: June 2020

Zika virus infection during pregnancy is a cause of congenital brain abnormalities. Its consequences for pregnancies have made governments and both national and international agencies issue advice and recommendations to women. This study was designed to understand the impacts of Zika on women who were less directly affected and less vulnerable to Zika. Women were recruited from various locations in Brazil, Puerto Rico, and the United States. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis. Women perceived that public health systems placed an unfair responsibility for preventing health complications from Zika onto women who had limited ability to do so. They also stated that the measures recommended to them were invasive, while creating the perception that women were the sole determinant of whether they contracted Zika. The results indicate that women with higher levels of education understood the limitations of the information, government actions, and medical care they received, which ended up producing higher levels of anguish and worry. Gender inequality and discrimination must be recognized and rendered visible in the public health emergency response. The social effects of the epidemic affected women more than had been thought before and at deeper emotional levels.
Exploring Children’s Views on Important Park Features: A Qualitative Study Using Walk-Along Interviews
Authors: Veitch Jenny , Flowers Elliott , Ball Kylie , Deforche Benedicte , Timperio Anna
Published: June 2020

Parks are places where children can interact with others and engage in physical activity in a natural setting. Park visits can enhance children’s social, mental, and physical health. It is therefore important to better understand how parks can be designed to ensure optimal use by children. This qualitative study explored children’s perceptions of park features that may influence their park visits, park-based physical activity, and social interaction. Qualitative walk-along interviews were completed with 30 children (mean age 9.7 years (SD 1.3), female n = 16) in nine parks located in varying socioeconomic areas of Melbourne, Australia. As they walked through the park, children shared thoughts regarding characteristics that may influence their visitation, park-based physical activity, and social interactions. Features that would encourage visitation included: challenging and interesting play equipment; a pond and water play area; trees/greenery and shade; and full-sized basketball courts. Features most valued for physical activity included: sports courts, ovals, and equipment; open space; trees to climb; and nature/rocks. Features most valued for social interaction included: a large size; playgrounds; and picnic areas. Children offer unique and important views. Park designers should consider inclusion of these features, when (re)developing parks to support children to lead healthy and active lives.
Can the New Subway Line Openings Mitigate PM10 Concentration? Evidence from Chinese Cities Based on the PSM-DID Method
Authors: Wang Ying , Tao Jing , Wang Rong , Mi Chuanmin
Published: June 2020

The large-scale construction of subway systems, which is viewed as one of the potential measures to mitigate traffic congestion and its resulting air pollution and health impact, is taking place in major cities throughout China. However, the literature on the impact of the new subway line openings on particulate matter with a diameter less than 10 µm (PM10) at the city level is scarce. Employing the Propensity Score Matching–Difference-in-differences method, this paper examines the effect of the new subway line openings on air quality in terms of PM10 in China, using the daily PM10 concentration data from January 2014 to December 2017. Our finding shows that the short-term treatment effect on PM10 is more controversial. Furthermore, for different time windows, the result confirms an increase in PM10 pollution during the short term, while the subway line openings improve air quality in the longer term. In addition, we find that the treatment effect results in high PM10 pollution for cities with 1–2 million people, while it improves air quality for cities with over 2 million people. Moreover, for cities with varying levels of GDP, there is evidence of a reduction in PM10 after the subway line openings. Mechanism analysis supports the conclusion that the PM10 reduction originated from substituting the subway for driving.
A Pilot Study of Musculoskeletal Abnormalities in Patients in Recovery from a Unilateral Rupture-Repaired Achilles Tendon
Authors: Sun Dong , Fekete Gusztáv , Baker Julien S. , Mei Qichang , István Bíró , Zhang Yan , Gu Yaodong
Published: June 2020

The purpose of this study was to compare the inter-limb joint kinematics, joint moments, muscle forces, and joint reaction forces in patients after an Achilles tendon rupture (ATR) via subject-specific musculoskeletal modeling. Six patients recovering from a surgically repaired unilateral ATR were included in this study. The bilateral Achilles tendon (AT) lengths were evaluated using ultrasound imaging. The three-dimensional marker trajectories, ground reaction forces, and surface electromyography (sEMG) were collected on both sides during self-selected speed during walking, jogging and running. Subject-specific musculoskeletal models were developed to compute joint kinematics, joint moments, muscle forces and joint reaction forces. AT lengths were significantly longer in the involved side. The side-to-side triceps surae muscle strength deficits were combined with decreased plantarflexion angles and moments in the injured leg during walking, jogging and running. However, the increased knee extensor femur muscle forces were associated with greater knee extension degrees and moments in the involved limb during all tasks. Greater knee joint moments and joint reaction forces versus decreased ankle joint moments and joint reaction forces in the involved side indicate elevated knee joint loads compared with reduced ankle joint loads that are present during normal activities after an ATR. In the frontal plane, increased subtalar eversion angles and eversion moments in the involved side were demonstrated only during jogging and running, which were regarded as an indicator for greater medial knee joint loading. It seems after an ATR, the elongated AT accompanied by decreased plantarflexion degrees and calf muscle strength deficits indicates ankle joint function impairment in the injured leg. In addition, increased knee extensor muscle strength and knee joint loads may be a possible compensatory mechanism for decreased ankle function. These data suggest patients after an ATR may suffer from increased knee overuse injury risk.
Faculties to Support General Practitioners Working Rurally at Broader Scope: A National Cross-Sectional Study of Their Value
Authors: McGrail Matthew R. , O’Sullivan Belinda G.
Published: June 2020

Strategies are urgently needed to foster rural general practitioners (GPs) with the skills and professional support required to adequately address healthcare needs in smaller, often isolated communities. Australia has uniquely developed two national-scale faculties that target rural practice: the Fellowship in Advanced Rural General Practice (FARGP) and the Fellowship of the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (FACRRM). This study evaluates the benefit of rural faculties for supporting GPs practicing rurally and at a broader scope. Data came from an annual national survey of Australian doctors from 2008 and 2017, providing a cross-sectional design. Work location (rurality) and scope of practice were compared between FACRRM and FARGP members, as well as standard non-members. FACRRMs mostly worked rurally (75–84%, odds ratio (OR) 8.7, 5.8–13.1), including in smaller rural communities (<15,000 population) (41–54%, OR 3.5, 2.3–5.3). FARGPs also mostly worked in rural communities (56–67%, OR 4.2, 2.2–7.8), but fewer in smaller communities (25–41%, OR 1.1, 0.5–2.5). Both FACRRMs and FARGPs were more likely to use advanced skills, especially procedural skills. GPs with fellowship of a rural faculty were associated with significantly improved geographic distribution and expanded scope, compared with standard GPs. Given their strong outcomes, expanding rural faculties is likely to be a critical strategy to building and sustaining a general practice workforce that meets the needs of rural communities.
Presence of Disinfection Byproducts in Public Swimming Pools in Medellín, Colombia
Authors: Lara Paula , Ramírez Valentina , Castrillón Fernando , Peñuela Gustavo A.
Published: June 2020

The quality of water in swimming pools is essential to avoid risks to the health of users. Medellín has more than 1000 public swimming pools, which are supervised by the Medellín Health Authority to monitor and ensure compliance with relevant regulations. The Health Authority has financed several studies related to the quality of drinking and recreational water in Medellín in order to protect consumers and users. One such study involves the evaluation of the presence of disinfection byproducts (DBP). The best known DBPs resulting from disinfection with chlorine are trihalomethanes (THMs) and halogenated acetic acids (HAAs), as well as other minorities such as chloramines or halophenols (HPs). DBPs pose a greater risk in swimming pool water because there is a greater possibility of ingestion, since exposure occurs through several routes at the same time (direct ingestion of water, inhalation of volatile or aerosol solutes, dermal contact and absorption through skin). In the present work, high concentrations of THMs and HAAs were detected in the public swimming pools selected in the study, but the presence of HPs was not detected in the pools.
Socioeconomic Inequalities in Mortality among Foreign-Born and Spanish-Born in Small Areas in Cities of the Mediterranean Coast in Spain, 2009–2015
Authors: Oliva-Arocas Adriana , Pereyra-Zamora Pamela , Copete José M. , Vergara-Hernández Carlos , Martínez-Beneito Miguel A. , Nolasco Andreu
Published: June 2020

Many studies have analysed socioeconomic inequalities and its association with mortality in urban areas. However, few of them have differentiated between native and immigrant populations. This study is an ecological study of mortality by overall mortality and analyses the inequalities in mortality in these populations according to the level of deprivation in small areas of large cities in the Valencian Community, from 2009 to 2015. The census tract was classified into five deprivation levels using an index based on socioeconomic indicators from the 2011 census. Rates and relative risks of death were calculated by sex, age, level of deprivation and country of birth. Poisson regression models have been used. In general, there was a higher risk of death in natives at the levels of greatest deprivation, which did not happen in immigrants. During the 2009–2015 period, there were socioeconomic inequalities in mortality, particularly in natives, who presented a higher risk of death than immigrants. Future interventions and social policies should be implemented in order to reduce inequalities in mortality amongst socioeconomic levels and to maintain the advantage that the immigrant population enjoys.
Coach–Athlete Attachment and the Subjective Well-Being of Athletes: A Multiple-Mediation Model Analysis
Authors: Peng Jiaxi , Zhang Jiaxi , Zhao Luming , Fang Peng , Shao Yongcong
Published: June 2020

The current study aims to explore how coach–athlete attachment affects the subjective well-being (SWB) of athletes and is primarily focused on the confirmation of the mediating roles of athletes’ perceived coach support and self-esteem in the relationship between them. A total of 179 Chinese athletes participated in this study, in which they responded to questions comprising a coach–athlete attachment scale, a perceived coach support measurement, the Rosenberg self-esteem scale, and SWB measures. The results suggest that both attachment anxiety and attachment avoidance significantly predict SWB in athletes. The effects of attachment anxiety on SWB are partially mediated by perceived coach support and self-esteem, and the effects of attachment avoidance on SWB are completely mediated by perceived coach support and self-esteem. Moreover, a chain mediating effect was found: coach–athlete attachment → perceived coach support → self-esteem → SWB. These findings extend the conclusions of prior reports and shed light on how coach–athlete attachment influences the athlete’s well-being.
Alcohol Consumption Reported during the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Initial Stage
Authors: Chodkiewicz Jan , Talarowska Monika , Miniszewska Joanna , Nawrocka Natalia , Bilinski Przemyslaw
Published: June 2020

Physical health is not the only area affected by the outbreak of the SARS-CoV-2 virus pandemic. There are also other consequences that have globally affected many millions at other levels, namely: Societal, political, economic, and cultural. This study aims to survey alcohol drinking throughout the pandemic so as to investigate those factors considered most relevant; i.e., sociodemographic and clinical. A longitudinal study was designed. The first (or initial) stage was completed between April 10–20 2020 on 443 subjects during the enforcement of the “Lockdown” in Poland. The second stage will be due in June 2020. As well as an in-house questionnaire, the study used: The Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test (AUDIT), General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), and the Brief COPE Inventory (Mini COPE). Alcohol was the most commonly used psychoactive substance (73%) identified. More than 30% changed their drinking habits because of the pandemic, with 16% actually drinking less, whilst 14% did so more. The former group was significantly younger than the latter. Amongst the stress-related coping strategies, it was found that current alcohol drinkers were significantly less able to find anything positive about the pandemic situation (positive reframing) and were mentally less able to cope. Those drinking more now were found to have been drinking more intensively before the pandemic started.
Metabolomic and Gene Expression Studies Reveal the Diversity, Distribution and Spatial Regulation of the Specialized Metabolism of Yacón (Smallanthus sonchifolius, Asteraceae)
Authors: Padilla-González Guillermo F. , Amrehn Evelyn , Frey Maximilian , Gómez-Zeledón Javier , Kaa Alevtina , Da Costa Fernando B. Da , Spring Otmar
Published: June 2020

Smallanthus sonchifolius, also known as yacón, is an Andean crop species commercialized for its nutraceutical and medicinal properties. The tuberous roots of yacón accumulate a diverse array of probiotic and bioactive metabolites including fructooligosaccharides and caffeic acid esters. However, the metabolic diversity of yacón remains unexplored, including the site of biosynthesis and accumulation of key metabolite classes. We report herein a multidisciplinary approach involving metabolomics, gene expression and scanning electron microscopy, to provide a comprehensive analysis of the diversity, distribution and spatial regulation of the specialized metabolism in yacón. Our results demonstrate that different metabolic fingerprints and gene expression patterns characterize specific tissues, organs and cultivars of yacón. Manual inspection of mass spectrometry data and molecular networking allowed the tentative identification of 71 metabolites, including undescribed structural analogues of known bioactive compounds. Imaging by scanning electron microscopy revealed the presence of a new type of glandular trichome in yacón bracts, with a distinctive metabolite profile. Furthermore, the high concentration of sesquiterpene lactones in capitate glandular trichomes and the restricted presence of certain flavonoids and caffeic acid esters in underground organs and internal tissues suggests that these metabolites could be involved in protective and ecological functions. This study demonstrates that individual organs and tissues make specific contributions to the highly diverse and specialized metabolome of yacón, which is proving to be a reservoir of previously undescribed molecules of potential significance in human health.
Neutrophils: Underestimated Players in the Pathogenesis of Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Authors: De Bondt Mirre , Hellings Niels , Opdenakker Ghislain , Struyf Sofie
Published: June 2020

Neutrophils are the most abundant circulating and first-responding innate myeloid cells and have so far been underestimated in the context of multiple sclerosis (MS). MS is the most frequent, immune-mediated, inflammatory disease of the central nervous system. MS is treatable but not curable and its cause(s) and pathogenesis remain elusive. The involvement of neutrophils in MS pathogenesis has been suggested by the use of preclinical animal disease models, as well as on the basis of patient sample analysis. In this review, we provide an overview of the possible mechanisms and functions by which neutrophils may contribute to the development and pathology of MS. Neutrophils display a broad variety of effector functions enabling disease pathogenesis, including (1) the release of inflammatory mediators and enzymes, such as interleukin-1β, myeloperoxidase and various proteinases, (2) destruction and phagocytosis of myelin (as debris), (3) release of neutrophil extracellular traps, (4) production of reactive oxygen species, (5) breakdown of the blood–brain barrier and (6) generation and presentation of autoantigens. An important question relates to the issue of whether neutrophils exhibit a predominantly proinflammatory function or are also implicated in the resolution of chronic inflammatory responses in MS.