bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feeding Enrichment in a Captive Pack of European Wolves (Canis Lupus Lupus): Assessing the Effects on Welfare and on a Zoo’s Recreational, Educational and Conservational Role
Authors: Riggio Giacomo , Mariti Chiara , Boncompagni Chiara , Corosaniti Simone , Di Giovanni Massimiliano , Ogi Asahi , Gazzano Angelo , Thomas Robert
Published: June 2019

This study investigated the effects of two feeding enrichment programs on the behaviour of a captive pack of European wolves (Canis lupus lupus) and their correlation with both zoo visitors’ interest towards the exhibit and their overall perception of the species. Behavioural data (exploration, stereotypies, social interactions, activity/inactivity rates) were collected on four male wolves during four two-week long phases: initial control, hidden food, novel object, final control. Three observation sessions were performed daily: before, during and after feeding. Number of visitors and their permanence in front of the exhibit were recorded. After watching the wolves, visitors were asked to fill out a brief questionnaire in order to investigate their perception of captive wolf welfare, as well as their attitude towards wolf conservation issues. Despite the high inter-individual variability in their behavioural response, all wolves seemed to benefit from feeding enrichment. With regard to visitors, interest in the exhibit increased when enrichment was provided. Visitors’ perception of the level of welfare of wolves improved if they attended a feeding session, especially during the novel object phase. Visitors’ attitude towards wolf conservation issues also improved during feeding sessions, regardless of enrichment provision.
A Global Review of Animal–Visitor Interactions in Modern Zoos and Aquariums and Their Implications for Wild Animal Welfare
Authors: D’Cruze Neil , Khan Sophie , Carder Gemma , Megson David , Coulthard Emma , Norrey John , Groves Georgina
Published: June 2019

We provide an initial insight into the occurrence and characteristics of animal-visitor interactions (AVIs) involving captive wild animals within zoos and aquaria. Using information provided online via official public websites of modern zoos and aquaria, we found that AVIs were provided by the majority of facilities. Our study revealed that a variety of AVI types were being offered. Globally, petting captive wild animals was the most prevalent AVI type advertised (n = 1241 observations, 43% (534) of facilities) and Mammalia was the most advertised taxonomic class (n = 5142; 53% (2739)). We found certain AVI types that were more commonly offered than predicted. These were opportunities to: (1) Hand feed captive wild animals in Asia, North America and Oceania; (2) ride wild animals in Europe and North America; (3) walk with or swim through wild animal enclosures in Asia; and (4) walk with wild animals in Asia and Europe. Given the global prevalence of AVIs in modern zoos and aquaria, and an apparent lack of animal welfare focused research, we provide recommendations to help effectively balance and manage captive wild animal welfare with other primary interconnected goals.
A Review of Australian Animal Welfare Legislation, Regulation, Codes of Practice, and Policy, and Their Influence on Stakeholders Caring for Wildlife and the Animals for Whom They Care
Authors: Englefield Bruce , Blackman Simone A. , Starling Melissa , McGreevy Paul D.
Published: June 2019

The Australian constitution makes no mention of native animals. Responsibility for animal welfare is largely retained by the states and territories via a fragmented, complex, contradictory, inconsistent system of regulatory management. Given that most jurisdictions have expressly made the possession of wildlife unlawful, the action of taking and possessing an animal, to rehabilitate it, defies the regulatory process. In most jurisdictions, it is illegal to microchip, band, or mark an animal, meaning that no reliable method is available to monitor an animal. Each year, a minimum of 50,000 rehabilitated native animals are released back to the wild, with little post-release monitoring. Where required, the assessments of behavioural and health requirements to confirm suitability for release may be undertaken by people with either negligible or questionable qualifications. Whilst it can be appropriate to rehabilitate and release injured native animals back to the wild, there may be moral, ethical, and practical reasons for not releasing hand-reared orphan native animals. This article examines the evolution, and explains the consequences, of decentralised regulation on wildlife carers and rehabilitating animals. It recommends that the practice of placing hand-reared native animals into the wild, and the regulatory framework that provides for it, should be reviewed.
Role of Pigeons in the Transmission of Avian Avulavirus (Newcastle Disease-Genotype VIId) to Chickens
Authors: Ellakany Hany F. , Elbestawy Ahmed R. , Abd El-Hamid Hatem S. , Zedan Rasha E. , Gado Ahmed R. , Taha Ayman E. , Soliman Mohamed A. , Abd El-Hack Mohamed E. , Swelum Ayman A. , Saadeldin Islam M. , Ba-Awadh Hani , Hussein Elsayed O.S.
Published: June 2019

Newcastle disease is an acute fatal disease of poultry. The aim of this study was to determine the dynamics of the transmission of avian avulavirus (velogenic viscerotropic Newcastle disease-genotype VIId) from either intramuscularly (IM)- or intranasally (IN) infected 8-week-old Egyptian Baladi pigeons in contact with commercial Arbor Acres broiler chickens (4 weeks of age). The mortality of IM infected chickens and pigeons was 10/10 for chickens and 8/15 for pigeons, while the mortality of IN infected chickens and pigeons was 7/10 for chickens and only 1/15 for pigeons. The concentration of viral shedding in the oropharynx was higher than that in the cloaca for both IN and IM infected pigeons. Pigeons infected IN continued shedding the virus from the oropharynx from the 4th day post-infection (dpi) up to the 16th dpi, while IM infected pigeons stopped oropharyngeal shedding at the 11th dpi. Chickens in contact with infected pigeons developed severe respiratory, digestive and nervous signs. The mortality rates in chickens in contact with IM and IN infected pigeons were 2/5 and 3/5, respectively. Chickens in contact with IM infected pigeons showed higher viral shedding titres in both the oropharynx and cloaca than chickens in contact with pigeons infected IN. In conclusion, free-range pigeons are considered an efficient carrier and transmitter of NDV-VIId compared to commercial broiler chickens raised in open houses.
Customization and Validation of a Regional Climate Model Using Satellite Data Over East Africa
Authors: Gudoshava Masilin , Semazzi Fredrick H. M.
Published: June 2019

This study focused on the customization of the fourth generation International Center for Theoretical Physics Regional Climate Model version 4.4 and its ability to reproduce the mean climate and most dominant modes of variability over East Africa. The simulations were performed at a spatial resolution of 25 km for the period 1998–2013. The model was driven by ERA-Interim reanalysis. The customization focus was on cumulus and microphysics schemes during the Short Rains for the year 2000. The best physics combinations were then utilized for the validation studies. The East Africa region and Lake Victoria Basin region are adapted to carry out empirical orthogonal function analysis, during the Short and Long Rains. Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission data was utilized in the validation of the model. The first mode of variability from the model and observational data during the Short Rains was associated with the warming of the Pacific Ocean and the sea surface temperature gradients over the Indian Ocean. During the Long rains, the inter-annual rainfall variability over the Lake Victoria region was associated with the sea surface temperature anomaly over the Indian Ocean and for the East Africa region the associations were weak. The drivers during the Long Rains over East Africa region were then further investigated by splitting the season to the March–April and May periods. The March–April period was positively correlated to the West Pacific and Indian Ocean dipole index, while May was associated with the Quasi-Biennial Oscillation. In conclusion, although the model can reproduce the dominant modes of variability as in the observational data sets during the Short Rains, skill was lower during the Long Rains.
Weakly-Supervised Image Semantic Segmentation Based on Superpixel Region Merging
Authors: Jiang Quanchun , Tawose Olamide Timothy , Pei Songwen , Chen Xiaodong , Jiang Linhua , Wang Jiayao , Zhao Dongfang
Published: June 2019

In this paper, we propose a semantic segmentation method based on superpixel region merging and convolutional neural network (CNN), referred to as regional merging neural network (RMNN). Image annotation has always been an important role in weakly-supervised semantic segmentation. Most methods use manual labeling. In this paper, super-pixels with similar features are combined using the relationship between each pixel after super-pixel segmentation to form a plurality of super-pixel blocks. Rough predictions are generated by the fully convolutional networks (FCN) so that certain super-pixel blocks will be labeled. We perceive and find other positive areas in an iterative way through the marked areas. This reduces the feature extraction vector and reduces the data dimension due to super-pixels. The algorithm not only uses superpixel merging to narrow down the target’s range but also compensates for the lack of weakly-supervised semantic segmentation at the pixel level. In the training of the network, we use the method of region merging to improve the accuracy of contour recognition. Our extensive experiments demonstrated the effectiveness of the proposed method with the PASCAL VOC 2012 dataset. In particular, evaluation results show that the mean intersection over union (mIoU) score of our method reaches as high as 44.6%. Because the cavity convolution is in the pooled downsampling operation, it does not degrade the network’s receptive field, thereby ensuring the accuracy of image semantic segmentation. The findings of this work thus open the door to leveraging the dilated convolution to improve the recognition accuracy of small objects.
Big Data and Business Analytics: Trends, Platforms, Success Factors and Applications
Authors: Ajah Ifeyinwa Angela , Nweke Henry Friday
Published: June 2019

Big data and business analytics are trends that are positively impacting the business world. Past researches show that data generated in the modern world is huge and growing exponentially. These include structured and unstructured data that flood organizations daily. Unstructured data constitute the majority of the world’s digital data and these include text files, web, and social media posts, emails, images, audio, movies, etc. The unstructured data cannot be managed in the traditional relational database management system (RDBMS). Therefore, data proliferation requires a rethinking of techniques for capturing, storing, and processing the data. This is the role big data has come to play. This paper, therefore, is aimed at increasing the attention of organizations and researchers to various applications and benefits of big data technology. The paper reviews and discusses, the recent trends, opportunities and pitfalls of big data and how it has enabled organizations to create successful business strategies and remain competitive, based on available literature. Furthermore, the review presents the various applications of big data and business analytics, data sources generated in these applications and their key characteristics. Finally, the review not only outlines the challenges for successful implementation of big data projects but also highlights the current open research directions of big data analytics that require further consideration. The reviewed areas of big data suggest that good management and manipulation of the large data sets using the techniques and tools of big data can deliver actionable insights that create business values.
Silver-Based Plasmonic Nanoparticles for and Their Use in Biosensing
Authors: Loiseau Alexis , Asila Victoire , Boitel-Aullen Gabriel , Lam Mylan , Salmain Michèle , Boujday Souhir
Published: June 2019

The localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) property of metallic nanoparticles is widely exploited for chemical and biological sensing. Selective biosensing of molecules using functionalized nanoparticles has become a major research interdisciplinary area between chemistry, biology and material science. Noble metals, especially gold (Au) and silver (Ag) nanoparticles, exhibit unique and tunable plasmonic properties; the control over these metal nanostructures size and shape allows manipulating their LSPR and their response to the local environment. In this review, we will focus on Ag-based nanoparticles, a metal that has probably played the most important role in the development of the latest plasmonic applications, owing to its unique properties. We will first browse the methods for AgNPs synthesis allowing for controlled size, uniformity and shape. Ag-based biosensing is often performed with coated particles; therefore, in a second part, we will explore various coating strategies (organics, polymers, and inorganics) and their influence on coated-AgNPs properties. The third part will be devoted to the combination of gold and silver for plasmonic biosensing, in particular the use of mixed Ag and AuNPs, i.e., AgAu alloys or Ag-Au core@shell nanoparticles will be outlined. In the last part, selected examples of Ag and AgAu-based plasmonic biosensors will be presented.
Gamma Knife Radiosurgery for Trigeminal Neuralgia: A Comparison of Dose Protocols
Authors: Boling Warren , Song Minwoo , Shih Wendy , Karlsson Bengt
Published: June 2019

Purpose: A variety of treatment plans including an array of prescription doses have been used in radiosurgery treatment of trigeminal neuralgia (TN). However, despite a considerable experience in the radiosurgical treatment of TN, an ideal prescription dose that balances facial dysesthesia risk with pain relief durability has not been determined. Methods and Materials: This retrospective study of patients treated with radiosurgery for typical TN evaluates two treatment doses in relation to outcomes of pain freedom, bothersome facial numbness, and patient satisfaction with treatment. All patients were treated with radiosurgery for intractable and disabling TN. A treatment dose protocol change from 80 to 85 Gy provided an opportunity to compare two prescription doses. The variables evaluated were pain relief, treatment side-effect profile, and patient satisfaction. Results: Typical TN was treated with 80 Gy in 26 patients, and 85 Gy in 37 patients. A new face sensory disturbance was reported after 80 Gy in 16% and after 85 Gy in 27% (p = 0.4). Thirteen failed an 80 Gy dose whereas seven failed an 85 Gy dose. Kaplan–Meier analysis found that at 29 months 50% failed an 80 Gy treatment compared with 79% who had durable pain relief after 85 Gy treatment (p = 0.04). Conclusion: The 85 Gy dose for TN provided a more durable pain relief compared to the 80 Gy one without a significantly elevated occurrence of facial sensory disturbance.
Intermittent Hypoxia Prevents Myocardial Mitochondrial Ca2+ Overload and Cell Death during Ischemia/Reperfusion: The Role of Reactive Oxygen Species
Authors: Chang Jui-Chih , Lien Chih-Feng , Lee Wen-Sen , Chang Huai-Ren , Hsu Yu-Cheng , Luo Yu-Po , Jeng Jing-Ren , Hsieh Jen-Che , Yang Kun-Ta
Published: June 2019

It has been documented that reactive oxygen species (ROS) contribute to oxidative stress, leading to diseases such as ischemic heart disease. Recently, increasing evidence has indicated that short-term intermittent hypoxia (IH), similar to ischemia preconditioning, could yield cardioprotection. However, the underlying mechanism for the IH-induced cardioprotective effect remains unclear. The aim of this study was to determine whether IH exposure can enhance antioxidant capacity, which contributes to cardioprotection against oxidative stress and ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury in cardiomyocytes. Primary rat neonatal cardiomyocytes were cultured in IH condition with an oscillating O2 concentration between 20% and 5% every 30 min. An MTT assay was conducted to examine the cell viability. Annexin V-FITC and SYTOX green fluorescent intensity and caspase 3 activity were detected to analyze the cell death. Fluorescent images for DCFDA, Fura-2, Rhod-2, and TMRM were acquired to analyze the ROS, cytosol Ca2+, mitochondrial Ca2+, and mitochondrial membrane potential, respectively. RT-PCR, immunocytofluorescence staining, and antioxidant activity assay were conducted to detect the expression of antioxidant enzymes. Our results show that IH induced slight increases of O2−· and protected cardiomyocytes against H2O2- and I/R-induced cell death. Moreover, H2O2-induced Ca2+ imbalance and mitochondrial membrane depolarization were attenuated by IH, which also reduced the I/R-induced Ca2+ overload. Furthermore, treatment with IH increased the expression of Cu/Zn SOD and Mn SOD, the total antioxidant capacity, and the activity of catalase. Blockade of the IH-increased ROS production abolished the protective effects of IH on the Ca2+ homeostasis and antioxidant defense capacity. Taken together, our findings suggest that IH protected the cardiomyocytes against H2O2- and I/R-induced oxidative stress and cell death through maintaining Ca2+ homeostasis as well as the mitochondrial membrane potential, and upregulation of antioxidant enzymes.
Assessment of Fatigue Damage and Crack Propagation in Ceramic Matrix Composites by Infrared Thermography
Authors: Dassios Konstantinos G. , Matikas Theodore E.
Published: June 2019

The initiation and propagation of damage in SiC fiber-reinforced ceramic matrix composites under static and fatigue loads were assessed by infrared thermography (IRT). The proposed thermographic technique, operating in lock-in mode, enabled early prediction of the residual life of composites, and proved vital in the rapid determination of the materials’ fatigue limit requiring testing of a single specimen only. IRT was also utilized for quantification of crack growth in the materials under cyclic loads. The paper highlights the accuracy and versatility of IRT as a state-of-the art damage assessment tool for ceramic composites.
Understanding Phase Stability of Metallic 1T-MoS2 Anodes for Sodium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Lane Christopher , Cao Daxian , Li Hongyan , Jiao Yucong , Barbiellini Bernardo , Bansil Arun , Zhu Hongli
Published: June 2019

We discuss metallic 1T-MoS2 as an anode material for sodium-ion batteries (SIBs). In situ Raman is used to investigate the stability of metallic MoS2 during the charging and discharging processes. Parallel first-principles computations are used to gain insight into the experimental observations, including the measured conductivities and the high capacity of the anode.
Recent Advancements in Inertial Micro-Switches
Authors: Peng Yingchun , Sun Yanling , Luo Guoxi , Wu Guoguo , Zhang Tao
Published: June 2019

Inertial micro-switches have great potential in the applications of acceleration sensing, due to the integrated advantages of a small size, high integration level, and low or even no power consumption. This paper presents an overview of the recent advancements made in research on the sensitive direction, threshold acceleration, contact effect, and threshold accuracy of inertial micro-switches. The reviewed switches were categorized according to the performance parameters, including multi-directional switches, multi-threshold switches, persistent closed switches, flexible-electrode switches, and low-g high-threshold-accuracy switches. The current challenges and prospects are also discussed.
Use of CaO Loaded Mesoporous Alumina for Defluoridation of Potable Groundwater Containing Elevated Calcium Levels
Authors: Jayaweera Mahesh , Sudasinghe Madhusha , Gunawardana Buddhika , Peiris Achini , Manatunge Jagath
Published: June 2019

Defluoridation in the presence of high calcium levels in potable groundwater is paramount, as the consumption of groundwater enriched with fluoride, and calcium has been implicated in causing chronic kidney disease of unknown etiology (CKDu) in Sri Lanka. CaO loaded mesoporous alumina (COMA) offers a great potential for defluoridation of potable water, but the effectiveness of COMA in the presence of calcium has not been investigated. This study, therefore, focuses on the investigation of the suitability of COMA for the defluoridation of potable water with high calcium levels. Mesoporous alumina was successfully functionalized with CaO to synthesize nano-level COMA with an optimum dosage for defluoridation being 2 g L−1. The amount of fluoride adsorbed increased (2.4–19.5 mg g−1) with the increase of the initial fluoride concentration (5–40 mg L−1), and the residual fluoride levels (0.8–1.47 mg L−1) were within the range specified by the WHO for drinking water. The amount of fluoride adsorbed by COMA varied between 6.50 and 7.97 mg g−1 with initial calcium levels between 0 and 1500 mg L−1, indicating that defluoridation was effective in the presence of high calcium levels. The fluoride adsorption was best fitted with the Langmuir model with a maximum monolayer capacity of COMA being 17.83 mg g−1, and adsorption kinetics fitted with the pseudo-2nd order model indicating strong covalent bonding by way of chemisorption. Thus, COMA can be effectively utilized as an adsorbent material in defluoridation efforts in areas prevalent with CKDu in the presence of high fluoride (15 mg L−1) and calcium (1500 mg L−1) levels.
Ecological Health Index: A Short Term Monitoring Method for Land Managers to Assess Grazing Lands Ecological Health
Authors: Xu Sutie , Rowntree Jason , Borrelli Pablo , Hodbod Jennifer , Raven Matt R.
Published: June 2019

Grazing lands should be monitored to ensure their productivity and the preservation of ecosystem services. The study objective was to investigate the effectiveness of an Ecological Health Index (EHI) for assessing ecosystem ecological health in grazing lands. The EHI was developed by synthesizing existing vegetation and soil cover indicators. We implemented long-term transects at 44 farms from two ecological regions in Patagonia, the Humid Magellan Steppe (HMS) (n = 24) and Subandean Grasslands (SG) (n = 20), to collect data on established quantifiable vegetative and soil measurements and the EHI. Using known quantifiable measures, the HMS had numerically greater species richness compared to SG. Similarly, the average percentage of total live vegetation was more favorable in HMS. Correlating the EHI with these known quantifiable measures demonstrated positive correlations with species richness, the percentage of total live vegetation and carrying capacity and was negatively correlations with bare ground. These results suggest that EHI could be a useful method to detect the ecological health and productivity in grazing lands. Overall, we conclude that EHI is an effective short-term monitoring approach that ranchers could implement annually to monitor grazing lands and determine the impacts of ranch decision-making on important ecosystem indicators.
Homozygosity for Mobile Element Insertions Associated with WBSCR17 Could Predict Success in Assistance Dog Training Programs
Authors: Tandon Dhriti , Ressler Kyra , Petticord Daniel , Papa Andrea , Jiranek Juliana , Wilkinson Riley , Kartzinel Rebecca Y. , Ostrander Elaine A. , Burney Nathaniel , Borden Carol , Udell Monique A. R. , VonHoldt Bridgett M.
Published: June 2019

Assistance dog training programs can see as many as 60% of their trainees dismissed. Many training programs utilize behavioral assays prior to admittance to identify likely successful candidates, yet such assays can be insconsistent. Recently, four canine retrotransposon mobile element insertions (MEIs) in or near genes WBSCR17 (Cfa6.6 and Cfa6.7), GTF2I (Cfa6.66) and POM121 (Cfa6.83) were identified in domestic dogs and gray wolves. Variations in these MEIs were significantly associated with a heightened propensity to initiate prolonged social contact or hypersociability. Using our dataset of 837 dogs, 228 of which had paired survey-based behavioral data, we discovered that one of the insertions in WBSCR17 is the most important predictor of dog sociable behaviors related to human proximity, measured by the Canine Behavioral Assessment Research Questionnaire (C-BARQ©). We found a positive correlation between insertions at Cfa6.6 and dog separation distress in the form of restlessness when about to be left alone by the owner. Lastly, assistance dogs showed significant heterozygosity deficiency at locus Cfa6.6 and higher frequency of insertions at Cfa6.6 and Cfa6.7. We suggest that training programs could utilize this genetic survey to screen for MEIs at WBSCR17 to identify dogs with sociable traits compatible with successful assistance dog performance.
Application of Meteorological and Hydrological Drought Indices to Establish Drought Classification Maps of the Ba River Basin in Vietnam
Authors: Quang Tri Doan , Tho Dat Tran , Duc Truong Dinh
Published: June 2019

The objective of this study was to establish drought classification maps to simulate and calculate the lack of discharge in the Ba River basin in Vietnam. The maps were established using three meteorological drought indices (the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI), the Drought Index (J), and the Ped Index (Ped)), the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model, and the hydrological drought index (KDrought). The results from the calculation of the SPI, Aridity Index (AI), and Ped at three stations (An Khe, Ayunpa, and MDrak) showed that the J index was suitable for the study area. Based on the J index, an extreme drought was predicted to occur at the Ayunpa, An Khe, and MDrak stations. During the calibration process, the SWAT Calibration Uncertainties Program (SWAT-CUP) model, with automatic algorithms, was used to select the parameters to optimize the SWAT model. For the calibration and validation, the observed discharge at two hydrology stations, An Khe and Cung Son, from the periods 1981–1991 and 1992–2002, respectively, were used. The simulated discharge was found to be acceptable, with the Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE), Percent bias (PBIAS), and R2 reaching good levels in both calibration and validation. The results from the calculation of the drought index (KDrought), and the established drought classification maps in 2016, showed that the most affected areas were the communes of the Gia Lai and Dak Lak provinces. The results from the simulation and calculations were found to be consistent with the situation that occurred in practice. The application of meteorological and hydrological drought indices, as well as the hydrological model, to support impact assessments of drought classification in space and time, as well as the establishment of forecasting and warning maps, will help managers to effectively plan policy responses to drought.
Nitrogen along the Hydrological Gradient of Marsh Sediments in a Subtropical Estuary: Pools, Processes, and Fluxes
Authors: Hu Weifang , Zhang Wenlong , Zhang Linhai , Tong Chuan , Sun Zhigao , Chen Yuehmin , Zeng Congsheng
Published: June 2019

Knowledge on the distribution of nitrogen (N) pools, processes, and fluxes along hydrological gradients provides a comprehensive perspective to understand the underlying causal mechanisms in intertidal flats, and thus improve predictions and climate adaptation strategies. We used a space-for-time substitution method to quantify N pools, processes, and fluxes along a hydrological gradient. Further, we linked N pools and processes and investigated not only surface but also subsurface sediments. Our results showed a gradual decrease in total N (TN) and mineralization rates (PNmin), but an increase in potential rates of nitrification (PNR) and denitrification (PDNR) under an elevated hydrological gradient, except for TN and PNmin in the subsurface sediment, which accumulated on the interaction zone between the high and middle tidal flats. Most sedimentary ammonium N (NH4+) and nitrate N (NO3−) concentrations were similar; however, NH4+ accumulated on the subsurface of the middle tidal flat. NO3− fluxes (from −0.54 to −0.35 mmol m−2 h−1) were uptake fluxes in the intertidal flats, but NH4+ fluxes (−2.48–3.54 mmol m−2 h−1) changed from uptake to efflux in the seaward direction. Structural equation modeling of the effects of inundation frequency, underground biomass, total carbon (TC), electrical conductivity (EC), and clay proportion on the N processes revealed that these accounted for 67%, 82%, and 17% of the variance of PDNR, PNmin, and PNR, respectively. Inundation frequency, underground biomass, TC, EC, and PNmin effects on N pools accounted for 53%, 69%, and 98% of the variance of NH4+, NO3−, and TN, respectively. This suggests that future sea level rise may decrease N storage due to increase in coupled nitrification–denitrification and decrease in N mineralization, and the NH4+ flux may change from sink to source in intertidal ecosystems.
Players’ Physical Performance Decreased After Two-Thirds of the Season: Results of 3 Consecutive Seasons in the German First Bundesliga
Authors: Chmura Paweł , Konefał Marek , Wong Del P. , Figueiredo Antonio J. , Kowalczuk Edward , Rokita Andrzej , Chmura Jan , Andrzejewski Marcin
Published: June 2019

The study aimed to: (1) investigate physical and technical performance among players during six consecutive phases of a competitive season, (2) determine if levels of match running and technical performance between the 1st and 6th phases of a season can be maintained, (3) and determine which phase features the lowest and highest values for variables assessed. Seventy out of 556 outfield players who played at least 80% of the matches in each phase of the Bundesliga seasons were analysed. Each season was divided into 6 phases: phase 1 (matches 1–6), phase 2 (7–11), phase 3 (12–17), phase 4 (18–23), phase 5 (24–28) and phase 6 (29–34). Thirteen variables were selected to quantify the physical and technical activity of players. Our results showed that by reducing the distances covered at intensities below 11 km·h−1, players were able to cover greater distances at intensities in the range of 11–13.99 and 21–23.99 km·h−1 in subsequent phases of a season. Players’ capacity to maintain match running and technical performance between the first and sixth phases of the season has been demonstrated, though the 4th phase of the season showed a breakthrough point as regards the maintenance of exercise capacity among players participating in the Bundesliga.
Environmental Risk Assessment of Metals in the Volcanic Soil of Changbai Mountain
Authors: Ma Qing , Han Lina , Zhang Jiquan , Zhang Yichen , Lang Qiuling , Li Fengxu , Han Aru , Bao Yongbin , Li Kaiwei , Alu Si
Published: June 2019

Tianchi volcano is a dormant active volcano with a risk of re-eruption. Volcanic soil and volcanic ash samples were collected around the volcano and the concentrations of 21 metals (major and trace elements) were determined. The spatial distribution of the metals was obtained by inverse distance weight (IDW) interpolation. The metals’ sources were identified and their pollution levels were assessed to determine their potential ecological and human health risks. The metal concentrations were higher around Tianchi and at the north to the west of the study area. According to the geo-accumulation index (Igeo), enrichment factor (EF) and contamination factor (CF) calculations, Zn pollution was high in the study area. Pearson’s correlation analysis and principal component analysis showed that with the exception of Fe, Mn and As, the metals that were investigated (Al, K, Ca, Na, Mg, Ti, Cu, Pb, Zn, Cr, Ni, Ba, Ga, Li, Co, Cd, Sn, Sr) were mostly naturally derived. A small proportion of Li, Pb and Zn may have come from vehicle traffic. There is no potential ecological risk and non-carcinogenic risk because of the low concentrations of the metals; however, it is necessary to pay attention to the carcinogenic risk of Cr and As in children.
Integrating Smoking Cessation Care into a Medically Supervised Injecting Facility Using an Organizational Change Intervention: A Qualitative Study of Staff and Client Views
Authors: Skelton Eliza , Tzelepis Flora , Shakeshaft Anthony , Guillaumier Ashleigh , Wood William , Jauncey Marianne , Salmon Allison M. , McCrabb Sam , Bonevski Billie
Published: June 2019

Background: Clients accessing supervised injecting facilities (SIFs) smoke at high rates. An SIF piloted an organizational change intervention to integrate smoking cessation care as routine treatment. This study aims to explore staff acceptability, perceived facilitators, and perceived barriers to implementing six core components of an organizational change intervention to integrate smoking cessation care in an SIF. Staff and client views on the acceptability, facilitators, and barriers to the provision of smoking cessation care were also examined. Methods: This paper presents findings from the qualitative component conducted post-intervention implementation. Face-to-face semi-structured staff interviews (n = 14) and two client focus groups (n = 5 and n = 4) were conducted between September and October 2016. Recruitment continued until data saturation was reached. Thematic analysis was employed to synthesise and combine respondent views and identify key themes. Results: Staff viewed the organizational change intervention as acceptable. Commitment from leadership, a designated champion, access to resources, and the congruence between the change and the facility’s ethos were important facilitators of organizational change. Less engaged staff was the sole barrier to the intervention. Smoking cessation care was deemed suitable. Key facilitators of smoking cessation care included: Written protocols, ongoing training, and visually engaging information. Key barriers of smoking cessation care included: Lack of access to nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) outside of business hours, practical limitations of the database, and concerns about sustainability of NRT. Conclusion: This study develops our understanding of factors influencing the implementation of an organisational change intervention to promote sustainable provision of smoking cessation care in the SIF setting.
Event Extraction and Representation: A Case Study for the Portuguese Language
Authors: Quaresma Paulo , Nogueira Vítor Beires , Raiyani Kashyap , Bayot Roy
Published: June 2019

Text information extraction is an important natural language processing (NLP) task, which aims to automatically identify, extract, and represent information from text. In this context, event extraction plays a relevant role, allowing actions, agents, objects, places, and time periods to be identified and represented. The extracted information can be represented by specialized ontologies, supporting knowledge-based reasoning and inference processes. In this work, we will describe, in detail, our proposal for event extraction from Portuguese documents. The proposed approach is based on a pipeline of specialized natural language processing tools; namely, a part-of-speech tagger, a named entities recognizer, a dependency parser, semantic role labeling, and a knowledge extraction module. The architecture is language-independent, but its modules are language-dependent and can be built using adequate AI (i.e., rule-based or machine learning) methodologies. The developed system was evaluated with a corpus of Portuguese texts and the obtained results are presented and analysed. The current limitations and future work are discussed in detail.
RNAi-Mediated Knockdown of Tssk1 and Tektin1 Genes Impair Male Fertility in Bactrocera dorsalis
Authors: Sohail Summar , Tariq Kaleem , Zheng Weiwei , Ali Muhammad Waqar , Peng Wei , Raza Muhammad Fahim , Zhang Hongyu
Published: June 2019

The genetic-based sterile insect technique (SIT) is an effective and environmentally safe strategy to diminish populations of agricultural and horticultural insect pests. Functional characterization of genes related to male fertility can enhance the genetic-based SIT. Tssk1 has been involved to control male fertility in both mammals and insects. Moreover, Tektin1 has also been revealed to influence male fertility in both human and mammals. These findings suggested that Tssk1 and Tektin1 identified from Bactrocera dorsalis could be required for male fertility in B. dorsalis. In this study, expression profiles of these two genes were studied at different developmental stages and in various tissues of adult males. Remarkably, it was found that Tssk1 and Tektin1 were highly expressed in the testis of mature adult males of B. dorsalis. Furthermore, Tssk1 and Tektin1 genes were downregulated by using the RNA interference (RNAi) method. Fertility assays including egg laying, hatching, and spermatozoa count were also performed to investigate male fertility of B. dorsalis. Results showed that knockdown of Tssk1 and Tektin1 caused male sterility up to 58.99% and 64.49%, respectively. As expected, the total numbers of spermatozoa were also significantly reduced by 65.83% and 73.9%, respectively. These results suggested that male sterility was happened wing to the low number of spermatozoa. In conclusion, we demonstrate that Tssk1 and Tektin1 are the novel agents that could be used to enhance the genetic-based SIT, or their double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) can be used as biopesticides to control the population of B. dorsalis.
A Combined Non-Invasive Approach to the Study of A Mosaic Model: First Laboratory Experimental Results
Authors: Chaban Antonina , Tornari Vivi , Deiana Rita , Andrianakis Michalis , Giovannacci David , Detalle Vincent
Published: June 2019

This paper presents first laboratory results of a combined approach carried out by the use of three different portable non-invasive electromagnetic methods: Digital holographic speckle pattern interferometry (DHSPI), stimulated infrared thermography (SIRT) and holographic subsurface radar (HSR), proposed for the analysis of a custom-built wall mosaic model. The model reproduces a series of defects (e.g., cracks, voids, detachments), simulating common deteriorated, restored or reshuffled areas in wall mosaics. DHSPI and SIRT, already well known in the field of non-destructive (NDT) methods, are full-field contactless techniques, providing complementary information on the subsurface hidden discontinuities. The use of DHSPI, based on optical imaging and interferometry, provides remote control and visualization of surface micro-deformation after induced thermal stress, while the use of SIRT allows visualization of thermal energy diffusion in the surface upon the induced thermal stress. DHSPI and SIRT data are complemented by the use of HSR, a contact method that provides localized information about the distribution of contrasts in dielectric permittivity and related possible anomalies. The experimental results, made by the combined use of these methods to the identification of the known anomalies in the mosaic model, are presented and discussed here as a contribution in the development of an efficient non-invasive approach to the in-situ subsurface analysis of ancient wall mosaics.
Influence of Environmental Growth Factors on the Biomass and Pigment Production of Chlorociboria aeruginascens
Authors: Stange Stephanie , Steudler Susanne , Delenk Hubertus , Werner Anett , Walther Thomas , Wagenführ André
Published: June 2019

The soft rot fungus Chlorociboria aeruginascens produces a blue–green pigment xylindein, which is of considerable interest for various applications such as in the veneer industry or in organic semiconductors. To understand the fungal growth as well as pigment production of C. aeruginascens, several studies were performed, the results of which are presented here. These studies investigated various growth conditions such as temperature, pH value, oxygen level and light intensity. It was observed that the formation of xylindein by C. aeruginascens decoupled from growth. In the primary metabolismus, the uncolored biomass is formed. Pigment production took place within the secondary metabolism, while biomass growth as well as pigment production depended on various growth conditions. It was also found that certain conditions encourage the switch in metabolism, leading to pigment production.
Antimicrobial Wound Dressings as Potential Materials for Skin Tissue Regeneration
Authors: Paduraru Andrei , Ghitulica Cristina , Trusca Roxana , Surdu Vasile Adrian , Neacsu Ionela Andreea , Holban Alina Maria , Birca Alexandra Catalina , Iordache Florin , Vasile Bogdan Stefan
Published: June 2019

The most important properties of performant wound dressings are biocompatibility, the ability to retain large amount of exudate and to avoid complications related with persistent infection which could lead to delayed wound healing. This research aimed to obtain and characterize a new type of antimicrobial dressings, based on zinc oxide/sodium alginate/polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). Zinc oxide nanostructures, obtained with different morphology and grain size by hydrothermal and polyol methods, are used as antimicrobial agents along with sodium alginate, which is used to improve the biocompatibility of the dressing. The nanofiber dressing was obtained through the electrospinning method. Characterization techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were performed to determine the structural and morphological properties of the obtained powders and composite fibers. Their antimicrobial activity was tested against Gram negative Escherichia coli (E. coli), Gram positive Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) bacteria and Candida albicans (C. albicans) yeast strains. The in vitro biocompatibility of the obtained composites was tested on human diploid cells. The obtained results suggest that the composite fibers based on zinc oxide and alginate are suitable for antimicrobial protection, are not toxic and may be useful for skin tissue regeneration if applied as a dressing.
Comparative Analysis of the Chemical Composition and Microstructure Conformation Between Different Dental Implant Bone Drills
Authors: Marenzi Gaetano , Sammartino Josè Camilla , Scherillo Fabio , Rengo Carlo , De Rosa Alfredo , Graziano Vincenzo , Spagnuolo Gianrico
Published: June 2019

Background: Hardness is considered an important parameter for evaluating the clinical performance of dental implant bone drills. It is connected to the chemical composition, microstructure conformation and manufacture of the surgical drills. Methods: Microstructure of five dental implant drills using scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) integrated with energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry. Vickers microhardness was measured using a CV 2000 microhardness tester with an indentation force of 500 g. Results: Composition of the implant drills was typical of martensitic stainless steel (MSS). The drills contained 13%–17% of Cr; Mo, Si and Mn were present as minor ligands. The examined bone drills showed different external surface conformation and hardness in relation to the different industrial production processes. A rougher external surface and a higher hardness value are characteristics of the surgical bone drills produced by hot forming; the implant drills produced by machining showed mailing lines on their external surface and a lower hardness. Conclusions: Different compositions and treatments were used by the manufacturers to improve the hardness of the external layer of the dental implant drills making them prone to a diverse heat generation during the implant site preparation.
Recent Advances of Cellulase Immobilization onto Magnetic Nanoparticles: An Update Review
Authors: Khoshnevisan Kamyar , Poorakbar Elahe , Baharifar Hadi , Barkhi Mohammad
Published: June 2019

Cellulosic enzymes, including cellulase, play an important role in biotechnological processes in the fields of food, cosmetics, detergents, pulp, paper, and related industries. Low thermal and storage stability of cellulase, presence of impurities, enzyme leakage, and reusability pose great challenges in all these processes. These challenges can be overcome via enzyme immobilization methods. In recent years, cellulase immobilization onto nanomaterials became the focus of research attention owing to the surface features of these materials. However, the application of these nanomaterials is limited due to the efficacy of their recovery process. The application of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) was suggested as a solution to this problem since they can be easily removed from the reaction mixture by applying an external magnet. Recently, MNPs were extensively employed for enzyme immobilization owing to their low toxicity and various practical advantages. In the present review, recent advances in cellulase immobilization onto functionalized MNPs is summarized. Finally, we discuss enhanced enzyme reusability, activity, and stability, as well as improved enzyme recovery. Enzyme immobilization techniques offer promising potential for industrial applications.
Prediction of Chronic Lower Back Pain Using the Hierarchical Neural Network: Comparison with Logistic Regression—A Pilot Study
Authors: Owari Yutaka , Miyatake Nobuyuki
Published: June 2019

Background: Many studies have reported on the causes of chronic lower back pain (CLBP). The aim of this study is to identify if the hierarchical neural network (HNN) is superior to a conventional statistical model for CLBP prediction. Linear models, which included multiple regression analysis, were executed for the analysis of the survey data because of the ease of interpretation. The problem with such linear models was that we could not fully consider the influence of interactions caused by a combination of nonlinear relationships and independent variables. Materials and Methods: The subjects in our study were 96 people (30 men aged 72.3 ± 5.6 years and 66 women aged 71.9 ± 5.4 years) who participated at a college health club from 20 July 2016 to 20 March 2017. The HNN and the logistic regression analysis (LR) were used for the prediction of CLBP and the accuracy of each analysis was compared and examined by using our previously reported data. The LR verified the fit using the Hosmer–Lemeshow test. The efficiencies of the two models were compared using receiver performance analysis (ROC), the root mean square error (RMSE), and the deviance (−2 log likelihood). Results: The area under the ROC curve, the RMSE, and the −2 log likelihood for the LR were 0.7163, 0.2581, and 105.065, respectively. The area under the ROC curve, the RMSE, and the log likelihood for the HNN were 0.7650, 0.2483, and 102.787, respectively (the correct answer rates were HNN = 73.3% and LR = 70.8%). Conclusions: On the basis of the ROC curve, the RMSE, and the −2 log likelihood, the performance of the HNN for the prediction probability of CLBP is equal to or higher than the LR. In the future, the HNN may be useful as an index to judge the risk of CLBP for individual patients.