bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cadmium, Lead, Copper, Zinc, and Iron Concentration Patterns in Three Marine Fish Species from Two Different Mining Sites inside the Gulf of California, Mexico
Authors: Serviere-Zaragoza Elisa , Lluch-Cota Salvador E. , Mazariegos-Villarreal Alejandra , Balart Eduardo F. , Valencia-Valdez Hugo , Méndez-Rodríguez Lia Celina
Published: January 2021

In the Gulf of California; mineral deposits have contributed to high metal contents in coastal environments. This study examined cadmium; lead; copper; zinc; and iron contents in three fish species; Kyphosus vaigiensis (herbivore), Stegastes rectifraenum (omnivore), and Balistes polylepis (carnivore) at two mining sites. Metal concentrations were analyzed by atomic absorption spectrophotometry and stable nitrogen and carbon isotopes were estimated using mass spectrophotometry. Also, we assessed the risk to human health from the consumption of these three species based on permissible limits; although only two of them (Kyphosus and Balistes) are consumed as food. Metal concentrations differed among fish species; except for iron. The highest concentrations of metals were not always recorded in the species at the highest trophic level; i.e., Balistes. The highest concentrations (dry weight) recorded were cadmium (0.21 ± 0.03 µg g−1) and lead (1.67 ± 0.26 µg g−1), in S. rectifraenum; copper (1.60 ± 0.49 µg g−1) and zinc (67.30 ± 8.79 µg g−1), in B. polylepis; and iron (27.06 ± 2.58 µg g−1), in K. vaigiensis. Our findings show that each element accumulates differently in particular marine organisms; depending on the physiology of the species and the biogeochemistry of its habitat; which in turn is affected by the anthropogenic activities in adjacent areas. No risk of heavy metals toxicity is expected from the human consumption of the species and sites studied
Sustainable Choices and Behaviors among Eco-Friendly Museum Travelers: Exploring the Drivers of Sacrifice, Visit, Pay, and WOM Intentions
Authors: Han Heesup , Lho Linda Heejung , Kim Hyeon-Cheol , Untaru Elena-Nicoleta
Published: January 2021

This research developed a sturdy theoretical framework that offers a better comprehension regarding customer approach intentions for eco-friendly museum products. Using a quantitative process, the apparent role of ecological value, connectedness to nature, social pressure, pro-environmental reputation was explored. Data quality testing demonstrated the validity of the construct measures. The critical mediating nature of customer-product relationship quality and feeling of pride was unveiled by conducting a structural analysis. In addition, the feeling of pride was a prominent factor determining sacrifice, visit, pay, and word of mouth (WOM) intentions. Social pressure played a major role in building relationship quality, whereas pro-environmental reputation was a key contributor to increase the feeling of pride. The model contained a strong prediction power for intentions. Results of this study contribute to enriching the extant knowledge regarding customer pro-environmental decision-making process, which is helpful for an eco-friendly museum and its success.
Assessment of the Quality of Life during COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Survey from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Algahtani Fahad D. , Hassan Sehar-un-Nisa , Alsaif Bandar , Zrieq Rafat
Published: January 2021

The COVID-19 outbreak emerged as an ongoing crisis at the beginning of the year 2020. Its horrific manifestation at the community level significantly affects various dimensions of the quality of life (QoL) of all individuals. The study aimed to examine some of the predictors of the QoL during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional online survey questionnaire was used to gather data on the participants’ sociodemographic backgrounds, physical health status, psychological reactions, and QoL. We adapted 12 items from the World Health Organization Quality of Life Instruments (WHOQOL-BREF) to assess the QoL. The Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale–21 (DASS-21) was used to assess depression, anxiety, and stress. The median and inter-quartile range were used to describe the QoL scores. A multinomial regression analysis was computed between QoL score quartiles and associated factors, and the statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. The results of the multinomial regression analysis demonstrated that males (OR = 1.96; 95% CI = 1.31–2.94); participants aged 26 to 35 years (OR = 5.1; 95% CI = 1.33–19.37); non-Saudi participants (OR = 1.69; 95% CI = 1.06–2.57); individuals with chronic diseases (OR = 2.15; 95% CI = 1.33–3.48); those who lost their job (OR = 2.18; 95% CI = 1.04–4.57); and those with depression (OR = 5.70; 95% CI = 3.59–9.05), anxiety (OR = 5.47; 95% CI = 3.38–8.84), and stress (OR = 6.55; 95% CI = 4.01–10.70) were more likely to be in the first quartile of the QoL scores. While the full model predicting the total QoL score was statistically significant (R2 = 0.962, F (750, 753) = 16,705.4, p < 0.001), the three QoL dimensions explained 0.643, 0.283, and 0.036 of the variability in environmental, social, and religious/spiritual dimensions, respectively. The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly influenced various aspects of individuals’ QoL, as well as their physical and psychological health. Community-based interventions are needed to mitigate the pandemic’s negative effects and enhance the health and QoL of the general population.
I-DECIDE: A Social Prescribing and Digital Intervention Protocol to Promote Sexual and Reproductive Health and Quality of Life among Young Cape Verdeans
Authors: Costa Andreia , Mourão Susana , Santos Osvaldo , Alarcão Violeta , Virgolino Ana , Nogueira Paulo , Bettencourt Marlinda Rocha , Reis Suely , Graça Albertino , Henriques Adriana
Published: January 2021

Cape Verdean governments have intensified the investment on the National Reproductive Health Program, aiming to provide universal and qualified services, especially to the youngest people. Nevertheless, data suggest that some health challenges remain in this group (e.g., high rates of early/unplanned pregnancies, illegal abortions, sexual risk behaviors). In this paper, we present a protocol of a community-based social prescribing and digital intervention to promote wellbeing and quality of life across the life course of young Cape Verdeans, with a specific focus on Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) related behaviors. The intervention program, to be developed in three years, will follow an Intervention Mapping approach, namely regarding needs assessment and study’s protocol. The program’s implementation and evaluation will occur simultaneously. The main expected result is the development of a sustainable training program implemented in coproduction with Cape Verdeans from Mindelo (in São Vicente island), with replicable potential in other Cape Verdean regions. The intervention will contribute to SRH-related literacy through the digital health literacy materials and to quality of life across the young’s life course.
Awareness and Attitudes Toward HIV Self-Testing in Northern Thailand
Authors: Shafik Nardeen , Deeb Savana , Srithanaviboonchai Kriengkrai , Ayood Pisittawoot , Malasao Rungnapa , Siviroj Penprapa , Musumari Patou Masika , Wood Michele M.
Published: January 2021

Human Immunodeficiency Virus self-testing (HIVST) was recently introduced in Thailand, but little is known about receptivity among its residents. Because Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) testing is a critical component of HIV prevention, it is important to understand how HIVST is perceived among potential users. The purpose of this study was to examine awareness and attitudes toward HIVST among adults in Northern Thailand. A convenience sample of 403 adult residents of the Sanpatong district, Chiang Mai Province, was interviewed using a structured questionnaire in 2019. Awareness of HIVST was low (14%), as was the overall HIVST negative attitude score (6.44; possible range of 0–14). The odds of being aware of HIVST were more than twice as high for those with more education compared to those with less (AOR = 2.29, 95% CI: 1.22–4.30), and roughly half as high for those who expressed HIV stigma compared to those who did not (AOR = 0.49, 95% CI: 0.26–0.91). Holding negative attitudes towards HIVST also was associated with lower education and expressing HIV stigma, but these relationships disappeared in multivariate analysis. Findings may be used by local health organizations to tailor HIVST education efforts.
The Impact of Work Hours on Depressive Symptoms among Koreans Aged 45 and Over
Authors: Kim Juyeong , Park Eun-Cheol
Published: January 2021

Background: Given the documented importance of employment for middle-aged and older adults’ mental health, studies of the association between their number of work hours and depressive symptoms are needed. Objectives: To examine the association between the number of work hours and depressive symptoms in Korean aged 45 and over. Methods: We used data from the first wave to fourth wave of the Korea Longitudinal Study of Aging. Using the first wave at baseline, data included 9845 individuals. Depressive symptoms were measured using the 10-item Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression scale. We performed a longitudinal analysis to estimate the prevalence of depressive symptoms by work hours. Results: Both unemployed males and females aged 45–65 years were associated with higher depressive symptoms (β = 0.59, p < 0.001; β = 0.32, p < 0.001). Females working ≥ 69 h were associated with higher depressive symptoms compared to those working 41–68 h (β = 0.25, p = 0.013). Among those both middle-aged and older adults, both males and females unemployed were associated with higher depressive symptoms. Those middle-aged female working ≥69 h were associated with higher depressive symptoms. Conclusions: An increase in depressive symptoms was associated with unemployed males and females working ≥69 h compared to those working 41–68 h. Although this association was found among middle-aged individuals, a decrease in depressive symptoms in both sexes was associated with working 1–40 h. Depressive symptoms should decrease by implementing employment policies and social services to encourage employers to support middle-aged and older adults in the workforce considering their sex and age differences.
Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Reliability of the Back Pain and Body Posture Evaluation Instrument (BackPEI) to the Spanish Adolescent Population
Authors: Miñana-Signes Vicente , Monfort-Pañego Manuel , Morant Joan , Noll Matias
Published: January 2021

The prevalence of back pain (BP) among children and adolescents has increased over recent years. Some authors advocate promoting back-health education in the school setting. It is therefore important to adopt a uniform suite of assessment instruments to measure the various constructs. The present study aimed to perform a cultural adaptation of a validated measurement instrument (BackPEI), beginning with a translation and cultural adaptation phase, followed by a second phase to test reliability using a test-retest design. The translation and cross-cultural adaptation were performed based on the guidelines. Reliability was tested by applying the questionnaire to 224 secondary school students, at two different times with a 7-day interval between the tests. In general, the Spanish version presented adequate agreement for questions 1–20, with only question 9 achieving a low Kappa range of 0.312 (−0.152–0.189). The question about pain intensity did not show differences between the test means (4.72 ± 2.33) and re-test (4.58 ± 2.37) (p = 0.333), and the responses for these two tests obtained a high correlation (ICC = 0.951 (0.928–0.966); p = 0.0001). Psychometric testing indicated that the Spanish version of the BackPEI is well-adapted and reliable, based on the test–retest design, providing similar results to the original Brazilian version.
Can We Use Grip Strength to Predict Other Types of Hand Exertions? An Example of Manufacturing Industry Workers
Authors: Lo Victor Ei-Wen , Chiu Yi-Chen , Tu Hsin-Hung
Published: January 2021

Background: There are different types of hand motions in people’s daily lives and working environments. However, testing duration increases as the types of hand motions increase to build a normative database. Long testing duration decreases the motivation of study participants. The purpose of this study is to propose models to predict pinch and press strength using grip strength. Methods: One hundred ninety-eight healthy volunteers were recruited from the manufacturing industries in Central Taiwan. The five types of hand motions were grip, lateral pinch, palmar pinch, thumb press, and ball of thumb press. Stepwise multiple linear regression was used to explore the relationship between force type, gender, height, weight, age, and muscle strength. Results: The prediction models developed according to the variable of the strength of the opposite hand are good for explaining variance (76.9–93.1%). Gender is the key demographic variable in the predicting models. Grip strength is not a good predictor of palmar pinch (adjusted-R2: 0.572–0.609), nor of thumb press and ball of thumb (adjusted-R2: 0.279–0.443). Conclusions: We recommend measuring the palmar pinch and ball of thumb strength and using them to predict the other two hand motions for convenience and time saving.
Spatio-Temporal Differentiation and Driving Mechanism of the “Resource Curse” of the Cultivated Land in Main Agricultural Production Regions: A Case Study of Jianghan Plain, Central China
Authors: Zhu Yuanyuan , Zhou Xiaoqi , Gan Yilin , Chen Jing , Yu Ruilin
Published: January 2021

Cultivated land resources are an important component of natural resources and significant in stabilizing economic and social order and ensuring national food security. Although the research on resource curse has progressed considerably, only a few studies have explored the existence and influencing factors of the resource curse of non-traditional mineral resources. The current study introduced resource curse theory to the cultivated land resources research and directly investigated the county-level relationship between cultivated land resource abundance and economic development. Meanwhile, the spatiotemporal dynamic pattern and driving factors of the cultivated land curse were evaluated on the cultivated land curse coefficient in China’s Jianghan Plain from 2001 to 2017. The results indicated that the curse coefficient of cultivated land resources in Jianghan Plain generally shows a downward trend. That is, the curse phenomenon of the cultivated land resources in large regions did not improve significantly in 2001–2017. The influencing factors of the cultivated land resource curse in different cursed degree areas varied and the spatial interaction of the cursed degree areas differed as well. This study proposed a transmission mechanism of the cultivated land resource curse in Jianghan Plain. Policies from throughout the entire and within the main agricultural producing areas were proposed to adjust the cultivated land resource curse. The results and conclusions of this study will be beneficial in improving future land-use policies in major agricultural areas and reducing lag in economic development caused by the strict protection of cultivated land resources.
Psychological Wellbeing and Academic Experience of University Students in Australia during COVID-19
Authors: Dodd Rachael H. , Dadaczynski Kevin , Okan Orkan , McCaffery Kirsten J. , Pickles Kristen
Published: January 2021

COVID-19 has created significant challenges for higher education institutions and major disruptions in teaching and learning. To explore the psychological wellbeing of domestic and international university students during the COVID-19 pandemic, an online cross-sectional survey recruited 787 university students (18+ years) currently studying at an Australian university. In total, 86.8% reported that COVID-19 had significantly impacted their studies. Overall, 34.7% of students reported a sufficient level of wellbeing, while 33.8% showed low wellbeing and 31.5% very low wellbeing. Wellbeing was significantly higher in postgraduate students compared with undergraduate students. Future anxiety was significantly greater among undergraduate than postgraduate students. Multivariable regression models showed female gender, low subjective social status, negative overall learning experience or reporting COVID-19 having a huge impact on study, were associated with lower wellbeing in the first few months (May–July) of the pandemic. Supporting the health, wellbeing, and learning experiences of all students should be of high priority now and post-pandemic. Strategies specifically targeting female students, and those with low self-reported social status are urgently needed to avoid exacerbating existing disparities.
Strategies for Teachers to Promote Physical Activity in Early Childhood Education Settings—A Scoping Review
Authors: Mak Toby C. T. , Chan Derwin K. C. , Capio Catherine M.
Published: January 2021

Recent evidence has emphasized the importance of the early childhood years for developing lifelong physical activity patterns. As such, evidence-informed programs that create opportunities for young children to engage in physical activity are needed and education settings present an important context. This review aimed to identify strategies that are implemented by teachers to promote physical activity in early childhood education and care settings. This is a scoping review that followed the framework proposed by the Joanna Briggs Institute. Searches were conducted using the databases of PubMed, SCOPUS, PsycINFO, SPORT Discus, ERIC and Web of Science for publications up to September 2020. From a total of 8974 articles, 19 were deemed eligible. Ten types of strategies, performed by teachers with the intention to improve physical activity-related primary outcomes, were identified. Physical activity promotion by teachers in early childhood settings is recommended to take a multi-strategy approach, in conjunction with professional development training opportunities and continuous follow-up support for teachers. Future work is warranted to fill the evidence gap in other regions (e.g., Asia, Africa and South America) and strengthen the evidence base to establish best practice standards.
Incidence of Cancer and Asbestos-Related Diseases among Residents Living near Abandoned Asbestos Mines in South Korea: A Retrospective Cohort Study Using National Health Insurance Database
Authors: Kwak Kyeongmin , Zoh Kyung Ehi , Paek Domyung
Published: January 2021

The use of asbestos has been banned since 2009 in South Korea. However, there is still a risk of exposure to environmental asbestos originating from abandoned asbestos mines. We constructed a retrospective dynamic cohort using the National Health Insurance Database of South Korea. We determined the risk of developing asbestos-related diseases (ARDs) among residents living near asbestos mines compared with those living in the control area and the general population. The risks of asbestosis (adjusted hazards ratio [HR] 65.40, 95% CI = 35.02–122.12) and pleural plaques (adjusted HR 3.55, 95% CI = 1.96–6.41) were significantly increased among residents living near the asbestos mines compared with the control area. The risk of malignant mesothelioma was increased near asbestos mines compared with the control area; however, it was not significant (adjusted HR 1.83, 95% CI = 0.61–5.47). When a separate analysis according to sex was conducted, the risk of mesothelioma among male residents was statistically significant (adjusted HR 8.30, 95% CI = 1.04–66.63), and the standardized incidence ratio (SIR) was significantly increased (SIR 3.48, 95% CI = 1.50–6.85). The risk of ARDs was increased due to environmental asbestos exposure near abandoned asbestos mines in South Korea.
The Influence of Metacognitive Strategies on the Improvement of Reaction Inhibition Processes in Children with ADHD
Authors: Kajka Natalia , Kulik Agnieszka
Published: January 2021

Background: Low response inhibition underlies attention disorders and hyperactivity. The aim of this study is to check whether these processes will be strengthened by three months of training with metacognitive strategies. Methodology: Forty-five schoolchildren took part in an experimental study (M = 10.41; SD = 1.42). Each child had been diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The participants were randomly assigned into three groups: the first group was tested for the effect of Mind Maps; the second group, for the effect of Sketchnoting, while the third group was assigned the role of a Control group. All of the groups were examined with the Loud Subtraction 7 test (LS7T) with a distractor before and after the training. Results: Analysis with the Wilcoxon test showed that children with ADHD made significantly fewer errors in the LS7 Test in the second measurement in the Mind Maps group (M1 = 7.45; SD1 = 4.07; M2 = 5.76; SD2 = 4.68; p = 0.02). In the remaining groups, there were no statistically significant differences in the average number of errors made. Conclusions: Mind Maps are an effective metacognitive strategy. Regular use of this method strengthens the inhibition of children with ADHD in this study. It can complement the existing forms of support for the child.
Current States and Future Trends in Safety Research of Construction Personnel: A Quantitative Analysis Based on Social Network Approach
Authors: Meng Xiangcheng , Chan Alan H. S.
Published: January 2021

The construction industry is recognized as a high-risk industry given that safety accidents and personnel injuries frequently occur. This study provided a systematic and quantitative review of existing research achievements by conducting social network approach to identify current states and future trends for the occupational safety of construction personnel. A total of 250 peer-reviewed articles were collected to examine the research on safety issues of workers in construction industry. Social network approach was applied to analyze the interrelationship among authors, keywords, and citations of these articles using VOS viewer and CitNetExplorer. A knowledge structure map was drawn using main path analysis (MPA) towards the collected papers, which was implemented by Pajek. In line with the findings of social network analysis, five research groups, and six keyword themes were identified in accordance with the times of cooperation of researchers and correlation among keywords of the papers. Core papers were identified by using main path analysis for each research domain to represent the key process and backbone for the corresponding area. Based on the finding of the research, significant implications and insights in terms of current research status and further research trends were provided for the scholars, thus helping generate a targeted development plan for occupational safety in construction industry.
Face Validation of Database Forensic Investigation Metamodel
Authors: Al-Dhaqm Arafat , Razak Shukor , Ikuesan Richard A. , R. Kebande Victor , Hajar Othman Siti
Published: January 2021

Using a face validity approach, this paper provides a validation of the Database Forensic Investigation Metamodel (DBFIM). The DBFIM was developed to solve interoperability, heterogeneity, complexity, and ambiguity in the database forensic investigation (DBFI) field, where several models were identified, collected, and reviewed to develop DBFIM. However, the developed DBFIM lacked the face validity-based approach that could ensure DBFIM’s applicability in the DBFI field. The completeness, usefulness, and logic of the developed DBFIM needed to be validated by experts. Therefore, the objective of this paper is to perform the validation of the developed DBFIM using the qualitative face validity approach. The face validity method is a common way of validating metamodels through subject expert inquiry on the domain application of the metamodel to assess whether the metamodel is reasonable and compatible based on the outcomes. For this purpose, six experts were nominated and selected to validate the developed DBFIM. From the expert review, the developed DBFIM was found to be complete, coherent, logical, scalable, interoperable, and useful for the DBFI field.
Synthesis, Crystal Structure, Spectroscopic Characterization, DFT Calculations and Cytotoxicity Assays of a New Cu(II) Complex with an Acylhydrazone Ligand Derived from Thiophene
Authors: Rodríguez María R. , Balsa Lucía M. , Piro Oscar E. , Etcheverría Gustavo A. , García-Tojal Javier , Pis-Diez Reinaldo , León Ignacio E. , Parajón-Costa Beatriz P. , González-Baró Ana C.
Published: January 2021

A new Cu(II) complex is synthetized by the reaction of copper nitrate and a N-acylhydrazone ligand obtained from the condensation of o-vanillin and 2-thiophecarbohydrazide (H2L). The solid-state structure of [Cu(HL)(H2O)](NO3)·H2O, or CuHL for simplicity, was determined by X-ray diffraction. In the cationic complex, the copper center is in a nearly squared planar environment with the nitrate interacting as a counterion. CuHL was characterized by spectroscopic techniques, including solid-state FTIR, Raman, electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) and diffuse reflectance and solution UV-Vis electronic spectroscopy. Calculations based on the density functional theory (DFT) assisted the interpretation and assignment of the spectroscopic data. The complex does not show relevant antioxidant activity evaluated by the radical cation of 2,2′-azinobis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS) method, being even less active than the free ligand as a radical quencher. Cytotoxicity assays of CuHL against three human tumor cell lines, namely MG-63, A549 and HT-29, revealed an important enhancement of the effectiveness as compared with both the ligand and the free metal ion. Moreover, its cytotoxic effect was remarkably stronger than that of the reference metallodrug cisplatin in all cancer cell lines tested, a promissory result in the search for new metallodrugs of essential transition metals.
The Control of the American Leafhopper Erasmoneura vulnerata (Fitch) in European Vineyards: Impact of Synthetic and Natural Insecticides
Authors: Tirello Paola , Marchesini Enrico , Gherardo Pamela , Raniero Damiano , Rossetto Filippo , Pozzebon Alberto , Duso Carlo
Published: January 2021

The American leafhopper Erasmoneura vulnerata, detected in Europe in the early 2000s, has recently become a pest in North-Italian vineyards. Infestations were recorded in organic and conventional vineyards despite the application of insecticides targeting other pests. Erasmoneura vulnerata completes three generations per year, and the second generation is frequently associated with large populations. The selection of appropriate active ingredients and the timing of their application is crucial for effective pest control. Field trials were carried out in Northeastern Italy, using a randomized design, to evaluate the impact of insecticides applied against other grapevine leafhoppers on E. vulnerata populations. The beginning of the second generation was selected as the best time for insecticide application. For natural products, two applications were planned. Among the selected insecticides, the most effective were acetamiprid, flupyradifurone and lambda-cyhalothrin. Regarding natural products, the most effective was kaolin which could represent an alternative to pyrethrins in organic vineyards. The identification of pest threshold levels and the evaluation of side effects of the most effective insecticides on key natural enemies occurring in vineyards are required.
Seasonal Activity, Spatial Distribution, and Physiological Limits of Subterranean Termites (Reticulitermes Species) in an East Texas Forest
Authors: Janowiecki Mark , Vargo Edward L.
Published: January 2021

One of the major goals of ecology is to understand how co-habiting species partition limited resources. In the eastern U.S., at least three species of Reticulitermes subterranean termites often occur in sympatry; however, little is known about how these species divide food resources. In this study, we characterized the foraging activity of Reticulitermes flavipes (Kollar), R. hageni Banks, and R. virginicus (Banks) across seasons to assess the impact of environmental conditions on resource partitioning. A field site consisting of two grids of wooden monitors was sampled monthly for 28 months. Foraging activity in all three species was correlated with the interaction of temperature and moisture. This correlation was influenced by temperature and moisture approximately equally in R. flavipes, whereas temperature contributed more to the correlation in R. hageni, and moisture contributed more in R. virginicus. These differences caused each species to preferentially forage during specific environmental conditions: R. flavipes continued foraging after high moisture events, R. hageni increased foraging under higher soil moisture, and R. virginicus increased foraging under lower soil temperatures. We attempted to explain these patterns by the species’ physiological limits; however, we found no differences in upper lethal limit, desiccation, or submersion limits across species. These results add to the overall understanding of resource partitioning by emphasizing the ability of multiple species to utilize the same resource under different environmental conditions and raise questions regarding the physiological and/or behavioral mechanisms involved.
The Brain-Gut Axis: Psychological Functioning and Inflammatory Bowel Diseases
Authors: Peppas Spyros , Pansieri Claudia , Piovani Daniele , Danese Silvio , Peyrin-Biroulet Laurent , Tsantes Andreas G. , Brunetta Enrico , Tsantes Argirios E. , Bonovas Stefanos
Published: January 2021

The brain-gut axis represents a complex bi-directional system comprising multiple interconnections between the neuroendocrine pathways, the autonomous nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), comprising Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, is a chronic, relapsing-remitting inflammatory disorder of the gastrointestinal tract with a multifactorial etiology. Depression and anxiety are prevalent among patients with chronic disorders characterized by a strong immune component, such as diabetes mellitus, cancer, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis and IBD. Although psychological problems are an important aspect of morbidity and of impaired quality of life in patients with IBD, depression and anxiety continue to be under-diagnosed. There is lack of evidence regarding the exact mechanisms by which depression, anxiety and cognitive dysfunction may occur in these patients, and whether psychological disorders are the result of disease activity or determinants of the IBD occurrence. In this comprehensive review, we summarize the role of the brain-gut axis in the psychological functioning of patients with IBD, and discuss current preclinical and clinical data on the topic and therapeutic strategies potentially useful for the clinical management of these patients. Personalized pathways of psychological supports are needed to improve the quality of life in patients with IBD.
Clostridioides difficile Infection, Still a Long Way to Go
Authors: Kampouri Eleftheria , Croxatto Antony , Prod’hom Guy , Guery Benoit
Published: January 2021

Clostridioides difficile is an increasingly common pathogen both within and outside the hospital and is responsible for a large clinical spectrum from asymptomatic carriage to complicated infection associated with a high mortality. While diagnostic methods have considerably progressed over the years, the optimal diagnostic algorithm is still debated and there is no single diagnostic test that can be used as a standalone test. More importantly, the heterogeneity in diagnostic practices between centers along with the lack of robust surveillance systems in all countries and an important degree of underdiagnosis due to lack of clinical suspicion in the community, hinder a more accurate evaluation of the burden of disease. Our improved understanding of the physiopathology of CDI has allowed some significant progress in the treatment of CDI, including a broader use of fidaxomicine, the use of fecal microbiota transplantation for multiples recurrences and newer approaches including antibodies, vaccines and new molecules, already developed or in the pipeline. However, the management of CDI recurrences and severe infections remain challenging and the main question remains: how to best target these often expensive treatments to the right population. In this review we discuss current diagnostic approaches, treatment and potential prevention strategies, with a special focus on recent advances in the field as well as areas of uncertainty and unmet needs and how to address them.
Ship Dynamics
Authors: Hirdaris Spyros , Mikkola Tommi
Published: January 2021

More than a century-and-half ago, William Froude and his son Robert [...]
Roles for Structural Biology in the Discovery of Drugs and Agrochemicals Targeting Sterol 14α-Demethylases
Authors: Monk Brian C. , Keniya Mikhail V.
Published: January 2021

Antifungal drugs and antifungal agrochemicals have significant limitations. These include several unintended consequences of their use including the growing importance of intrinsic and acquired resistance. These problems underpin an increasingly urgent need to improve the existing classes of antifungals and to discover novel antifungals. Structural insights into drug targets and their complexes with both substrates and inhibitory ligands increase opportunity for the discovery of more effective antifungals. Implementation of this promise, which requires multiple skill sets, is beginning to yield candidates from discovery programs that could more quickly find their place in the clinic. This review will describe how structural biology is providing information for the improvement and discovery of inhibitors targeting the essential fungal enzyme sterol 14α-demethylase.
Acknowledgment to Reviewers of Journal of Fungi in 2020
Authors:   Journal of Fungi Editorial Office
Published: January 2021

Peer review is the driving force of journal development, and reviewers are gatekeepers who ensure that Journal of Fungi maintains its standards for the high quality of its published papers [...]
Qualitative Prediction of Ligand Dissociation Kinetics from Focal Adhesion Kinase Using Steered Molecular Dynamics
Authors: Spiriti Justin , Wong Chung F.
Published: January 2021

Most early-stage drug discovery projects focus on equilibrium binding affinity to the target alongside selectivity and other pharmaceutical properties. Since many approved drugs have nonequilibrium binding characteristics, there has been increasing interest in optimizing binding kinetics early in the drug discovery process. As focal adhesion kinase (FAK) is an important drug target, we examine whether steered molecular dynamics (SMD) can be useful for identifying drug candidates with the desired drug-binding kinetics. In simulating the dissociation of 14 ligands from FAK, we find an empirical power–law relationship between the simulated time needed for ligand unbinding and the experimental rate constant for dissociation, with a strong correlation depending on the SMD force used. To improve predictions, we further develop regression models connecting experimental dissociation rate with various structural and energetic quantities derived from the simulations. These models can be used to predict dissociation rates from FAK for related compounds.
Numerical Study on the Effect of Z-Warps on the Ballistic Responses of Para-Aramid 3D Angle-Interlock Fabrics
Authors: Yang Yingxue , Zhang Xiuqin , Chen Xiaogang , Min Shengnan
Published: January 2021

In order to achieve an efficient ballistic protection at a low weight, it is necessary to deeply explore the energy absorption mechanisms of ballistic fabric structures. In this paper, finite element (FE) yarn-level models of the designed three-dimensional (3D) angle-interlock (AI) woven fabrics and the laminated two-dimensional (2D) plain fabrics are established. The ballistic impact responses of fabric panels with and without the interlocking Z-warp yarns during the projectile penetration are evaluated in terms of their energy absorption, deformation, and stress distribution. The Z-warps in the 3D fabrics bind different layers of wefts together and provide the panel with structural support along through-the-thickness direction. The results show that the specific energy absorption (SEA) of 3D fabrics is up to 88.1% higher than that of the 2D fabrics. The 3D fabrics has a wider range of in-plane stress dispersion, which demonstrates its structural advantages in dispersing impact stress and getting more secondary yarns involved in energy absorption. However, there is a serious local stress concentration in 2D plain woven fabrics near the impact location. The absence of Z-warps between the layers of 2D laminated fabrics leads to a premature layer by layer failure. The findings are indicative for the future design of ballistic amors.
Design of a Novel Road Pavement Using Steel and Plastics to Enhance Performance, Durability and Construction Efficiency
Authors: Jiang Wei , Yuan Dongdong , Sha Aimin , Huang Yue , Shan Jinhuan , Li Pengfei
Published: January 2021

Durability is one important problem that pavement engineers need to address in pavement’s long service life. Furthermore, easily recycled pavement materials, and safe and efficient pavement construction are also important areas for development in road engineering. For these reasons, a new asphalt steel plastic (ASP) pavement structure was proposed with an asphalt mixture forming the surface layer, and steel plate and plastic materials functioning as the main load-bearing layers. Based on a comprehensive performance review and cost-benefit analysis, stone mastic asphalt (SMA) is recommended to be used as the surface layer; and A656 steel plate and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic materials should be the main load-bearing layer, on top of a foundation layer made with graded crushed stones. A glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) insulation layer is recommended for use between the steel plate and ABS. Mechanical properties of the ASP pavement were analyzed using the finite element method. Laboratory tests were conducted to verify the thermal insulation performance of GFRP, the high-temperature stability and the fatigue resistance of ASP pavement. Results show that some of the mechanical properties of ASP pavement (with a structure of 80 mm SMA asphalt mixture, 8 mm steel plate, 140 mm ABS and 200 mm crushed stones) are comparable with conventional long-life pavement (with 350 mm asphalt layer overlaying 400 mm graded crushed stones). Dynamic stability of the ASP slab specimens can reach 10,000 times/mm, and the fatigue life is about twice that of SMA. Besides, the ASP pavement can be prefabricated and assembled on-site, and thus can greatly improve construction efficiency. From the lifecycle perspective, ASP pavement has many advantages over traditional pavements, such as durability, lower environmental footprint and recyclability, making it is worth further research.
Precise Locating Control for a Polar Crane Based on Sliding Mode Active Disturbance Rejection Control and Quadratic Programming Algorithm
Authors: Cao Xuyang , Wang Zhiwei , Zhang Xingang
Published: January 2021

A polar crane is a large-scale special lifting equipment operated in a nuclear power plant. To address the precise locating control problem of a polar crane with the center of gravity shifting, with cross-coupling, and with external disturbance, an effective control scheme is proposed in this paper. Firstly, a nonholonomic constraint dynamic model of the polar crane is established according to the Lagrange–Rouse equation. Then, an expansion state observer (ESO) of the active disturbance rejection control (ADRC) method is applied to estimate and compensate the cross-coupling disturbance in real-time. To improve the robustness and convergence speed of the control system, the nonsingular terminal sliding mode (NTSM) control method is incorporated with ADRC and the stability of the controller is proven by the Lyapunov function approach. Furthermore, to solve the problem of redundant actuation and to reduce trajectory deviation of the bridge truck, the contact forces of the horizontal guide device are introduced into the quadratic programming (QP) optimization algorithm. Finally, the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed control scheme are illustrated by simulation results.
Analyzing Operational Efficiency in Real Estate Companies: An Application of GM (1,1) and DEA Malmquist Model
Authors: Wang Chia-Nan , Nguyen Thi-Ly , Dang Thanh-Tuan
Published: January 2021

Real estate management and its operation play a crucial role in supporting company operation. Going hand-in-hand with the rapid growth of companies, the real estate portfolio has expanded dramatically, attracting large numbers of domestic and foreign investors. This paper studied the top 12 real estate companies listed on Vietnam’s stock market to develop a method that combines the Grey methodology and the Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) Malmquist model, intending to predict and evaluate their performances in two periods: 2015–2018 and 2019–2022. The proposed model considered three input factors, namely total assets, cost of sales, and cost of goods sold, and two output factors, namely total revenue and gross profit. Findings revealed that drastic efficiency changes in some companies should be observed at the beginning of the process, even if the technological efficiency in the period is stable. In the future period, most companies achieved relatively stable productivity. This study serves as a reference for policymakers and strategy makers by analyzing insights for the operational status of real estate businesses and providing an overview in the future toward sustainable development.
A New Algorithm for Computing Disjoint Orthogonal Components in the Three-Way Tucker Model
Authors: Martin-Barreiro Carlos , Ramirez-Figueroa John A. , Nieto-Librero Ana B. , Leiva Víctor , Martin-Casado Ana , Galindo-Villardón M. Purificación
Published: January 2021

One of the main drawbacks of the traditional methods for computing components in the three-way Tucker model is the complex structure of the final loading matrices preventing an easy interpretation of the obtained results. In this paper, we propose a heuristic algorithm for computing disjoint orthogonal components facilitating the analysis of three-way data and the interpretation of results. We observe in the computational experiments carried out that our novel algorithm ameliorates this drawback, generating final loading matrices with a simple structure and then easier to interpret. Illustrations with real data are provided to show potential applications of the algorithm.
Discrete Optimization: The Case of Generalized BCC Lattice
Authors: Kovács Gergely , Nagy Benedek , Stomfai Gergely , Turgay Neşet Deniz , Vizvári Béla
Published: January 2021

Recently, operations research, especially linear integer-programming, is used in various grids to find optimal paths and, based on that, digital distance. The 4 and higher-dimensional body-centered-cubic grids is the nD (n≥4) equivalent of the 3D body-centered cubic grid, a well-known grid from solid state physics. These grids consist of integer points such that the parity of all coordinates are the same: either all coordinates are odd or even. A popular type digital distance, the chamfer distance, is used which is based on chamfer paths. There are two types of neighbors (closest same parity and closest different parity point-pairs), and the two weights for the steps between the neighbors are fixed. Finding the minimal path between two points is equivalent to an integer-programming problem. First, we solve its linear programming relaxation. The optimal path is found if this solution is integer-valued. Otherwise, the Gomory-cut is applied to obtain the integer-programming optimum. Using the special properties of the optimization problem, an optimal solution is determined for all cases of positive weights. The geometry of the paths are described by the Hilbert basis of the non-negative part of the kernel space of matrix of steps.
Recovery of Filtered Particles by Elastic Flat-Sheet Membrane with Cross Flow
Authors: Miyoshi Manoka , Morisada Shintaro , Ohto Keisuke , Kawakita Hidetaka
Published: January 2021

After filtration, filtered residue is recovered by a spoon, during which, the structure of the residue is destroyed, and the activity of the microorganism would be reduced. Thus, a more efficient recovery method of filtered residue is required. This study addressed the recovery method of filtered residue by the restoration of an elastic membrane, followed by cross flow. An elastic membrane composed of a copolymer of poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate and polyacrylonitrile was prepared by photopolymerization. The pore diameter of the obtained membrane was about 10 μm. Silica particle (1 and 10 μm) and Nannochloropsis sp. (2 μm) suspension was filtered, demonstrating that silica particles of 10 μm were filtered perfectly, whereas the filtration percentage of 1 μm silica particles and Nannochloropsis sp. was lower. After the filtration, the applied pressure was released to restore the elastic membrane which moved the filtered particles up, then the filtered residue was recovered by cross flow above the membrane, demonstrating that 71% of the filtered 10 μm silica particles was recovered. The elastic behavior of the membrane, along with the cross flow, has the potential to be used as a technique for the recovery of the filtered residues. This proposed scheme would be used for the particle recovery of ceramics, cells, and microorganisms from a lab scale to a large-scale plant.
Structural and Barrier Properties of Compatibilized PE/PA6 Multinanolayer Films
Authors: Lozay Quentin , Beuguel Quentin , Follain Nadège , Lebrun Laurent , Guinault Alain , Miquelard-Garnier Guillaume , Tencé-Girault Sylvie , Sollogoub Cyrille , Dargent Eric , Marais Stéphane
Published: January 2021

The barrier performance and structural lightening of organic materials are increasingly desired and constitute a major challenge for manufacturers, particularly for transport and packaging. A promising technique which tends to emerge in recent years is that of multinanolayer coextrusion. The advantage is that it can produce multilayers made of thousands of very thin layers, leading to new properties due to crystalline morphology changes induced by confinement. This paper is focusing on the study of multinanolayered films with alternated polyethylene (PE), compatibilizer (PEgMA) and polyamide 6 (PA6) layers and made by a forced assembly coextrusion process equipped with layer multiplying elements (LME). PE/PA6 multilayer films consisting of 5 to 2049 layers (respectively 0 to 9 LME) were successfully obtained with well-organized multilayered structure. The evolution of the morphology and the microstructure of these two semi-crystalline polymers, when the thickness of each polymer layer decreases from micro-scale to nano-scale, was correlated to the water and gas transport properties of the PE/PA multilayers. The expected improvement of barrier properties was limited due to the on-edge orientation of crystals in very thin PE and PA6 layers. Despite this change of crystalline morphology, a slight improvement of the gas barrier properties was shown by comparing experimental results with permeabilities predicted on the basis of a serial model developed by considering a PE/PA6 interphase. This interphase observed by TEM images and the on-edge crystal orientation in multilayers were evidenced from mechanical properties showing an increase of the stiffness and the strength.