bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Special Issue “Analysis for Power Quality Monitoring”
Authors: González de-la-Rosa Juan-José , Pérez-Donsión Manuel
Published: January 2020

We are immersed in the so-called digital energy network, continuously introducing new technological advances for a better way of life. As a consequence, numerous emerging words are relevant to this point: Internet of Things (IoT), big data, smart cities, smart grid, industry 4.0, etc. To achieve this formidable goal, systems should work more efficiently, a fact that inevitably leads to power quality (PQ) assurance. Apart from its economic losses, a bad PQ implies serious risks for machines and, consequently, for people. Many researchers are endeavouring to develop new analysis techniques, instruments, measurement methods, and new indices and norms that match and fulfil the requirements regarding the current operation of the electrical network. This book, and its associated Special Issue, offer a compilation of some of the recent advances in this field. The chapters range from computing to technological implementation, going through event detection strategies and new indices and measurement methods that contribute significantly to the advance of PQ analysis and regulation. Experiments have been developed within the frameworks of research units and projects and deal with real data from industry practice and public buildings. Human beings have an unavoidable commitment to sustainability, which implies adapting PQ monitoring techniques to our dynamic world, defining a digital and smart concept of quality for electricity.
Comparing Corrective and Preventive Security-Constrained DCOPF Problems Using Linear Shift-Factors
Authors: Hinojosa Victor H.
Published: January 2020

This study compares two efficient formulations to solve corrective as well as preventive security-constrained (SC) DC-based optimal power flow (OPF) problems using linear sensitivity factors without sacrificing optimality. Both SCOPF problems are modelled using two frameworks based on these distribution factors. The main advantage of the accomplished formulation is the significant reduction of decision variables and—equality and inequality—constraints in comparison with the traditional DC-based SCOPF formulation. Several test power systems and extensive computational experiments are conducted using a commercial solver to clearly demonstrate the feasibility to carry out the corrective and the preventive SCOPF problems with a reduced solution space. Another point worth noting is the lower simulation time achieved by the introduced methodology. Additionally, this study presents advantages and disadvantages for the proposed shift-factor formulation solving both corrective and preventive formulations.
A Procedure for the Derivation of a Schedule-Based Energy-Equivalent Driving Cycle for Urban Buses
Authors: Villante Carlo
Published: January 2020

The present paper takes the lead from the long-lasting experience gained by the author on mathematical modeling of vehicle energy performances and on the calibration of those models based on real data acquired on buses in real operation. In particular, the paper focuses on a possible way to define a schedule-based energy-equivalent driving cycle which may have a number of applications (e.g., for buses’ performance prediction, propulsion systems choice and net optimization). Specific attention was given to energy-equivalency of the proposed driving cycles to the foreseeable real mission of the vehicles on their scheduled duty (e.g., mean inertial energy on play during vehicle Start and Stops, mean stops in between the arcs, mean vehicle speed and acceleration, etc.): The objective was in fact that of reproducing the same energy characteristics of the real vehicle mission in a simplified way. To this aim, the main energy characteristics of the expected mission were foreseen through a regressive interpolation of data coming from an extensive analysis of onboard measured data, based on independent variables (mean vehicle cruise speed and slope), which could be efficiently estimated by vehicle schedule. There could be a number of possible uses of the so-defined driving cycles (e.g., for buses’ performance prediction, propulsion systems choice and net optimization): All these applications will benefit from the precision of the cycles in predicting energy characteristics of the real vehicle use and will therefore be much more reliable than in usual practice (which normally makes reference to standardized bus cycles with very limited connection to expected vehicle use).
Estimating Urban Vegetation Biomass from Sentinel-2A Image Data
Authors: Li Long , Zhou Xisheng , Chen Longqian , Chen Longgao , Zhang Yu , Liu Yunqiang
Published: January 2020

Urban vegetation biomass is a key indicator of the carbon storage and sequestration capacity and ecological effect of an urban ecosystem. Rapid and effective monitoring and measurement of urban vegetation biomass provide not only an understanding of urban carbon circulation and energy flow but also a basis for assessing the ecological function of urban forest and ecology. In this study, field observations and Sentinel-2A image data were used to construct models for estimating urban vegetation biomass in the case study of the east Chinese city of Xuzhou. Results show that (1) Sentinel-2A data can be used for urban vegetation biomass estimation; (2) compared with the Boruta based multiple linear regression models, the stepwise regression models—also multiple linear regression models—achieve better estimations (RMSE = 7.99 t/hm2 for low vegetation, 45.66 t/hm2 for broadleaved forest, and 6.89 t/hm2 for coniferous forest); (3) the models for specific vegetation types are superior to the models for all-type vegetation; and (4) vegetation biomass is generally lowest in September and highest in January and December. Our study demonstrates the potential of the free Sentinel-2A images for urban ecosystem studies and provides useful insights on urban vegetation biomass estimation with such satellite remote sensing data.
Simulating the Potential Sequestration of Three Major Greenhouse Gases in China’s Natural Ecosystems
Authors: Li Mengdi , Cui Yaoping , Fu Yiming , Li Nan , Tang Xiying , Liu Xiaoyan , Run Yadi
Published: January 2020

The greenhouse gases sequestrated by ecosystems are of great relevance to global carbon cycle and climate regulation. However, it is time-consuming and laborious to conduct sampling analysis, and it is also difficult to analyze the variation of potential sequestration of various ecosystems for greenhouse gases in China. This study used six 5-year periods of land use data for China between 1990 and 2015 to analyze the changes of three natural ecosystems (forest, grassland, and wetland). Correspondingly, the potential sequestration of the three ecosystems for three major greenhouse gases (carbon dioxide CO2, methane, and nitrous oxide) during the 25 years were simulated through a greenhouse gas value (GHGV) model. The GHGV model was found to be a reliable alternative to calculating the carbon sequestration of natural ecosystems in China. The total greenhouse gas sequestration of China’s natural ecosystems remained at around 267 Pg CO2-equivalent; however, the greenhouse gas sequestration had decreased by 3.3 Pg CO2-equivalent between 1990 and 2015. Comparison of the simulation results of the GHGV model based on the localized parameters and the model default parameters revealed that the simulated potential sequestration of the greenhouse gases for forest and wetland ecosystems (but not the grassland ecosystem) were smaller when run with localized parameters than the model default parameters. Moreover, the carbon sequestration of natural ecosystems was greater than the amount of anthropogenic carbon emissions, but the potential sequestration of natural ecosystems for greenhouse gas has become increasingly limited. Our study reveals the model can act as an important supplement for assessing the potential sequestration of the greenhouse gases for ecosystems at a regional scale.
Tree Species Distribution Change Study in Mount Tai Based on Landsat Remote Sensing Image Data
Authors: Meng Yan , Cao Banghua , Mao Peili , Dong Chao , Cao Xidong , Qi Lin , Wang Mengxiao , Wu Yue
Published: January 2020

Located in the Mount Tai state-owned forest farm, this study adopted Landsat multispectral remote sensing data in 2000 and 2016 on the GEE (Google Earth Engine) platform and selected four phases of images each year according to the phenological period. By dealing with the current situation map of forestry resources in 2000 and the field survey data in 2016, the samples of tree species distribution in 2000 and 2016 were obtained. On the basis of topographic correction with the empirical rotation model, this study used the random forest (RF) classifier to classify tree species from remote sensing images in 2000 and 2016, achieving high classification accuracy. The results showed that, after 16 years of evolution, the percentage of pine species in the forest decreased from 55.69% to 50.22%, with a percentage decrease as high as 5.47%. The percentage of black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) increased from 10.15% in 2000 to 13.75% in 2016, with an increase of 3.60%. Quercus also had a positive growth in the area. This result reflected the expansion of black locust.
MCCM: An Approach for Connectivity and Coverage Maximization
Authors: Ghaddar Alia , Bou Hatoum Monah , Fadlallah Ghassan , Mcheick Hamid
Published: January 2020

The internet of Things (IoT) has attracted significant attention in many applications in both academic and industrial areas. In IoT, each object can have the capabilities of sensing, identifying, networking and processing to communicate with ubiquitous objects and services. Often this paradigm (IoT) using Wireless Sensor Networks must cover large area of interest (AoI) with huge number of devices. As these devices might be battery powered and randomly deployed, their long-term availability and connectivity for area coverage is very important, in particular in harsh environments. Moreover, a poor distribution of devices may lead to coverage holes and degradation to the quality of service. In this paper, we propose an approach for self-organization and coverage maximization. We present a distributed algorithm for “Maintaining Connectivity and Coverage Maximization” called M C C M . The algorithm operates on different movable devices in homogeneous and heterogeneous distribution. It does not require high computational complexity. The main goal is to keep the movement of devices as minimal as possible to save energy. Another goal is to reduce the overlapping areas covered by different devices to increase the coverage while maintaining connectivity. Simulation results show that the proposed algorithm can achieve higher coverage and lower nodes’ movement over existing algorithms in the state of the art.
The Expression of Decidual Protein Induced by Progesterone (DEPP) Is Controlled by Three Distal Consensus Hypoxia Responsive Element (HRE) in Hypoxic Retinal Epithelial Cells
Authors: Klee Katrin , Storti Federica , Maggi Jordi , Todorova Vyara , Karademir Duygu , Berger Wolfgang , Samardzija Marijana , Grimm Christian
Published: January 2020

Hypoxia affects the development and/or progression of several retinopathies. Decidual protein induced by progesterone (DEPP) has been identified as a hypoxia-responsive gene that may be part of cellular pathways such as autophagy and connected to retinal diseases. To increase our understanding of DEPP regulation in the eye, we defined its expression pattern in mouse and human retina and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). Interestingly, DEPP expression was increased in an age-dependent way in the central human RPE. We showed that DEPP was regulated by hypoxia in the mouse retina and eyecup and that this regulation was controlled by hypoxia-inducible transcription factors 1 and 2 (HIF1 and HIF2). Furthermore, we identified three hypoxia response elements (HREs) about 3.5 kb proximal to the transcriptional start site that were responsible for hypoxic induction of DEPP in a human RPE cell line. Comparative genomics analysis suggested that one of the three HREs resides in a highly conserved genomic region. Collectively, we defined the molecular elements controlling hypoxic induction of DEPP in an RPE cell line, and provided evidence for an enrichment of DEPP in the aged RPE of human donors. This makes DEPP an interesting gene to study with respect to aging and age-related retinal pathologies.
An Analysis of Global Research Trends on Greenhouse Technology: Towards a Sustainable Agriculture
Authors: Aznar-Sánchez José A. , Velasco-Muñoz Juan F. , López-Felices Belén , Román-Sánchez Isabel M.
Published: January 2020

Greenhouse farming is an agricultural management system that has demonstrated its efficiency in intensifying food production. These systems constitute a feasible alternative for ensuring food supply, which is one of the greatest challenges faced by humankind in the twenty-first century. Technology has been able to meet the challenges related to greenhouse farming in both contributing to overcoming its limitations, correcting adverse impacts and ensuring system sustainability. The objective of this article is to analyse the global research trends in greenhouse technology over the last two decades, in order to identify the main driving agents, the most outstanding research lines and possible gaps in the literature. Different methodologies have been used for the analysis; both quantitative and qualitative. The principal results show that there are different relevant lines of research related to different aspects of greenhouse farming: the use of water for irrigation, the design of the optimum structure of the greenhouse, conserving the soil in the best growing conditions, energy consumption of the system as a whole, climate control within the facility and pest control. The research is characterized by the being composed largely of ad hoc studies, which hinders the international collaboration between researchers and institutions. The research approach has shifted from being focused on increasing production and cost savings to aspects related to resource conservation and sustainability.
Comprehensive Evaluation System of Occupational Hazard Prevention and Control in Iron and Steel Enterprises Based on A Modified Delphi Technique
Authors: Song Yang , Chen Zhe , Zhang Shengkui , Wang Jiaojiao , Li Chao , Li Xiaoming , Yuan Juxiang , Zhang Xiujun
Published: January 2020

The study designs a comprehensive evaluation system for the prevention and control of occupational hazards, calculates its weight coefficient, and provides a potential strategic and effective tool for the scientific evaluation of occupational hazards in the iron and steel enterprises. The system was established through induction and analysis of relevant literature, personal interview, theoretical analysis, Delphi expert consultation, and special group discussions. Using an improved analytical hierarchy process fuzzy comprehensive evaluation model and on the basis of the improved Delphi expert investigation, the weight of the operability comprehensive evaluation index system is constructed. A three-level index system is established on the basis of harmful factors of occupational activities, health status of employees, protection facilities of occupational hazards, occupational health management, and so on. The index system structure is 4-20-95, and the weight coefficients of the four dimensions are 0.2516, 0.2428, 0.2550, and 0.2506. The recovery rate of the questionnaire was 82.5%, 100.0%, and 100.0%. The effective rates were 75.0%, 100.0%, and 100.0%. Conversely, the expert authority coefficients of the four dimensions are 0.875, 0.769, 0.832 and 0.800. Results show that the consistency factors of the four dimensions are statistically significant. Cronbach’s α coefficient, standardized Cronbach’s α coefficient, and split-half reliability of the comprehensive evaluation index system are 0.959, 0.950, and 0.810, respectively. After factor analysis, four common factors were extracted on the basis of expert opinions, and the cumulative variance was 63.1%. The comprehensive evaluation system for the prevention and control of occupational hazards in the iron and steel enterprises proposed by the study is relatively complete and reasonable.
Health Literacy is Associated with Health Behaviors in Students from Vocational Education and Training Schools: A Danish Population-Based Survey
Authors: Klinker Charlotte Demant , Aaby Anna , Ringgaard Lene Winther , Hjort Anneke Vang , Hawkins Melanie , Maindal Helle Terkildsen
Published: January 2020

Health literacy has been identified as an important and changeable intermediary determinant of health equity. Vocational education and training (VET) schools are a relevant setting for health behavior interventions seeking to diminish health inequities because many VET students come from low socio-economic status backgrounds. This study examines VET students’ health literacy and its association with health behavior based on a cross-sectional survey among 6119 students from 58 VET schools in Denmark in 2019. Two scales from the Health Literacy Questionnaire was used to assess domains of health literacy. Data were analyzed using Anova and logistic regression. The study population consisted of 43.4% female, and mean age was 24.2 years (range 15.8–64.0). The health literacy domain ‘Actively managing my health’ mean was 2.51, SD 0.66, and ‘Appraisal of health information’ mean was 2.37, SD 0.65. For both domains, being female, older age, attending the VET educational program Care-health-pedagogy, and higher self-rated health were associated with higher scale scores. In the adjusted analyses, lower scale scores were associated with less frequent breakfast, daily smoking, high-risk alcohol behavior and moderate-to-low physical activity. Our results show that low health literacy is associated with unhealthy behaviors in this population. Our results support and inform health literacy research and practice in educational institutions and services.
Stressful Factors in the Working Environment, Lack of Adequate Sleep, and Musculoskeletal Pain among Nursing Unit Managers
Authors: Sigursteinsdóttir Hjördís , Skúladóttir Hafdís , Agnarsdóttir Thórey , Halldórsdóttir Sigrídur
Published: January 2020

Background: Middle managers have not received enough attention within the healthcare field, and little is known how stressful factors in their work environment coupled with a lack of adequate sleep are related to musculoskeletal pain. The aim of this study was to examine the correlation between stressful factors in the work environment, lack of adequate sleep, and pain/discomfort in three body areas. Methods: Questionnaire was sent electronically to all female nursing unit managers (NUM) in Iceland through the outcome-survey system. The response rate was 80.9%. Results: NUM who had high pain/discomfort in the neck area also had very high pain/discomfort in the shoulder area and pain in the lower back. The results also revealed positive a medium-strong correlation between mental and physical exhaustion at the end of the workday and musculoskeletal pain. Stress in daily work, mental strain at work, and being under time-pressures had hardly any correlation with pain/discomfort in the three body parts. Adequate sleep had a significant negative correlation with all stressful factors in the work environment and all three body parts under review. Conclusion: The results will hopefully lead to a better consideration of stressful factors in the work environment, sleep, and musculoskeletal pain in middle managers.
Does Health Literacy of Hemodialyzed Patients Predict the Type of Their Vascular Access? A Cross-Sectional Study on Slovak Hemodialyzed Population
Authors: Zavacka Martina , Skoumalova Ivana , Madarasova Geckova Andrea , Rosenberger Jaroslav , Zavacky Peter , Pobehova Jana , Majernikova Maria
Published: January 2020

Effective vascular access (VA) is an essential condition for providing hemodialysis, affecting patients’ health outcomes. We aim to explore how health literacy (HL) as a non-clinical factor is associated with the decision-making process regarding VA type selection. Using data from 20 dialysis centers across Slovakia (n = 542, mean age = 63.6, males = 60.7%), the association of HL with type of VA (arteriovenous fistula (AVF) vs. central venous catheter (CVC)) was analyzed using a logistic regression model adjusted for sociodemographic characteristics and comorbidity. Sociodemographic data and data on nine domains of HL were collected by questionnaire. Data on VA and comorbidity were obtained from a medical records. Patients with a greater ability to engage with healthcare providers (odds ratio (OR): 1.34; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.00–1.78), those with a better ability to navigate the healthcare system (OR: 1.41; 95% CI: 1.08–1.85), those more able to find good health information (OR: 1.52; 95% CI: 1.15–2.03), and those who understand it well enough to know what to do (OR: 1.52; 95% CI: 1.12–2.06) are more likely to have AVF. Patients’ HL is associated with the type of VA; therefore, it should be considered in the decision-making process regarding the selection of the type of VA, thereby informing strategies for improving patients’ HL and doctor–patient communication.
Preparation and Characterization of Fe-Mn Binary Oxide/Mulberry Stem Biochar Composite Adsorbent and Adsorption of Cr(VI) from Aqueous Solution
Authors: Liang Meina , Xu Shuiping , Zhu Yinian , Chen Xu , Deng Zhenliang , Yan Liling , He Huijun
Published: January 2020

This study details the preparation of Fe-Mn binary oxide/mulberry stem biochar composite adsorbent (FM-MBC) from mulberry stems via the multiple activation by potassium permanganate, ferrous chloride, triethylenetetramine, and epichlorohydrin. The characteristics of FM-MBC had been characterized by SEM-EDS, BET, FT-IR, XRD, and XPS, and static adsorption batch experiments such as pH, adsorption time, were carried out to study the mechanism of Cr(VI) adsorption on FM-MBC and the impact factors. The results indicated that in contrast with the mulberry stem biochar (MBC), the FM-MBC has more porous on surface with a BET surface area of 74.73 m2/g, and the surface loaded with α-Fe2O3 and amorphization of MnO2 particles. Besides, carboxylic acid, hydroxyl, and carbonyls functional groups were also formed on the FM-MBC surface. At the optimal pH 2.0, the maximum adsorption capacity for Cr(VI) was calculated from the Langmuir model of 28.31, 31.02, and 37.14 mg/g at 25, 35, and 45 °C, respectively. The aromatic groups, carboxyls, and the hydroxyl groups were the mainly functional groups in the adsorption of Cr(VI). The mechanism of the adsorption process of FM-MBC for Cr(VI) mainly involves electrostatic interaction, surface adsorption of Cr(VI) on FM-MBC, and ion exchange.
Perceptions of the Use of Alcohol and Drugs after Sudden Bereavement by Unnatural Causes: Analysis of Online Qualitative Data
Authors: Drabwell Lauren , Eng Jessica , Stevenson Fiona , King Michael , Osborn David , Pitman Alexandra
Published: January 2020

Bereavement is associated with an increased risk of psychiatric morbidity and all-cause mortality, particularly in younger people and after unnatural deaths. Substance misuse is implicated but little research has investigated patterns of drug or alcohol use after bereavement. We used a national online survey to collect qualitative data describing whether and how substance use changes after sudden bereavement. We conducted thematic analysis of free-text responses to a question probing use of alcohol and drugs after the sudden unnatural (non-suicide) death of a family member or a close friend. We analysed data from 243 adults in British Higher Education Institutions aged 18–40, identifying two main themes describing post-bereavement alcohol or drug use: (1) sense of control over use of drugs or alcohol (loss of control versus self-discipline), (2) harnessing the specific effects of drugs or alcohol. Across themes we identified age patterning in relation to substance misuse as a form of rebellion among those bereaved in childhood, and gender patterning in relation to men using alcohol to help express their emotions. The limitations of our sampling mean that these findings may not be generalizable from highly-educated settings to young people in the general population. Our findings describe how some young bereaved adults use drugs and alcohol to help them cope with traumatic loss, and suggest how clinicians might respond to any difficulties controlling substance use.
Bidirectional Associations across Time between Entitativity, Positive Affect, Generosity, and Religiousness in Adolescents Training with a Religiously Affiliated Charity Marathon Team
Authors: Schnitker Sarah , Shubert Jennifer , Houltberg Benjamin , Fernandez Nathaniel
Published: January 2020

Numerous studies have established that participation in regular physical activity provides physical, cognitive, and affective benefits to adolescents, but fewer studies have examined how athletic involvement might affect character, social, or religious developmental markers of psychosocial functioning. The purpose of this study is to examine the bidirectional associations between entitativity (group closeness), positive affect, generosity, and religiousness across time among adolescents and emerging adults involved in charitable marathon training. We collected data from 396 adolescents and emerging adults who trained for half/full marathons with a religiously affiliated charity team. Participants completed measures at three occasions over 18 weeks (pre-training, mid-training, post-race). We conducted cross-lagged path analysis of latent factors to study concurrent and longitudinal effects of intrinsic religiousness, positive affectivity, and entitativity on interpersonal generosity and fundraising. Participants who reported higher levels of pre-training generosity were more likely to experience positive affect during training, which predicted higher levels of post-race generosity. Likewise, the internalization of religious ideas, reflected in increased intrinsic religiousness during training, was associated with higher post-race generosity. Overall, results support the potential of charitable sporting events to promote positive psychosocial developmental outcomes.
Distribution and Removal of Pharmaceuticals in Liquid and Solid Phases in the Unit Processes of Sewage Treatment Plants
Authors: Park Junwon , Kim Changsoo , Hong Youngmin , Lee Wonseok , Chung Hyenmi , Jeong Dong-Hwan , Kim Hyunook
Published: January 2020

In this study, we analyzed 27 pharmaceuticals in liquid and solid phase samples collected from the unit processes of four different sewage treatment plants (STPs) to evaluate their distribution and behavior of the pharmaceuticals. The examination of the relative distributions of various categories of pharmaceuticals in the influent showed that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) were the most dominant. While the relative distribution of antibiotics in the influent was not high (i.e., 3%–5%), it increased to 14%–30% in the effluent. In the four STPs, the mass load of the target pharmaceuticals was reduced by 88%–95% mainly in the biological treatment process, whereas the ratio of pharmaceuticals in waste sludge to those in the influent (w/w) was only 2%. In all the STPs, the removal efficiencies for the stimulant caffeine, NSAIDs (acetaminophen, naproxen, and acetylsalicylic acid), and the antibiotic cefradine were high; they were removed mainly by biological processes. Certain compounds, such as the NSAID ketoprofen, contrast agent iopromide, lipid regulator gemfibrozil, and antibiotic sulfamethoxazole, showed varying removal efficiencies depending on the contribution of biodegradation and sludge sorption. In addition, a quantitative meta-analysis was performed to compare the pharmaceutical removal efficiencies of the biological treatment processes in the four STPs, which were a membrane bioreactor (MBR) process, sequencing batch reactor (SBR) process, anaerobic–anoxic–oxic (A2O) process, and moving-bed biofilm reactor (MBBR) process. Among the biological processes, the removal efficiency was in the order of MBR > SBR > A2O > MBBR. Among the tertiary treatment processes investigated, powdered activated carbon showed the highest removal efficiency of 18%–63% for gemfibrozil, ibuprofen, ketoprofen, atenolol, cimetidine, and trimethoprim.
The Perceptions of Trauma, Complaints, Somatization, and Coping Strategies among Syrian Refugees in Germany—A Qualitative Study of an At-Risk Population
Authors: Zbidat Ali , Georgiadou Ekaterini , Borho Andrea , Erim Yesim , Morawa Eva
Published: January 2020

Background: A high prevalence of mental distress, especially posttraumatic stress disorder, has been widely confirmed among refugees. In order to establish adequate interventions in psychotherapy, however, it must first be examined whether refugees have similar ideas and concepts of stress, trauma, and healing. This study, therefore, aimed to analyze the representations of trauma, self-reported complaints, indications of somatization, and coping strategies among a refugee population. Methods: Semi-structured interviews based on the Cultural Formulation Interview (CFI) of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) were conducted with Syrian refugees who have residence permission in Germany. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed according to the qualitative content analysis of Mayring. The foci of interest were determined on the basis of the predefined interview guideline, and inductive subcategories were extracted from the transcripts. Results: Sixteen refugees participated (50% women; mean age: 35.5 years, SD = 11.2; the mean duration of stay in Germany: 23.3 months, SD = 6.6). War experiences were the most frequently reported subjective perceptions of trauma. Frequently reported complaints included sleeping disturbance, cardiovascular symptoms, rumination, and pain. Among half of the participants, we found indications of somatization. We identified the following coping strategies: Activity, cognitive coping, social coping, religious coping, avoidance, and emotional coping. Conclusions: War-related traumatic events are the most common trauma perceptions among Syrian refugees. The self-reported complaints demonstrate somatoform, depressive, and posttraumatic symptoms. Syrian refugees should be screened for somatization, depression, and posttraumatic stress disorder and should receive targeted interventions that consider and support individual coping resources.
Cost-Effectiveness of “Tele-Square Step Exercise” for Falls Prevention in Fibromyalgia Patients: A Study Protocol
Authors: Carlos-Vivas Jorge , Pérez-Gómez Jorge , Delgado-Gil Serafín , Campos-López José Carlos , Granado-Sánchez Manuel , Rojo-Ramos Jorge , Muñoz-Bermejo Laura , Barrios-Fernandez Sabina , Mendoza-Muñoz María , Prado-Solano Angelina , Garcia-Gordillo Miguel Ángel , Adsuar José Carmelo
Published: January 2020

Background: Women with fibromyalgia (FM) have 2.5 falls per year compared to the 0.5 falls in people without FM. This fact poses a significant health expense. Square Stepping Exercise (SSE) is a balance training system that has been shown to be effective in preventing falls in the elderly. However, there are neither studies in people with FM nor studies that apply SSE through video-conferencing (Tele-SSE). The objectives of this project are 1) to investigate the applicability, safety, decrease in the number of falls, and incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of prevention of falls program through Tele-SSE in women with FM, and 2) to study the transfer of obtained results to the public and private socio-health economy of Extremadura. Methods/Design: A randomized controlled trial with experimental (Tele-SSE) and control (usual treatment) groups will be carried out. The application of Tele-SSE will be performed for 12 months (three times per week) and one additional follow-up month after the intervention. A focus group including agents to identify key points to transfer the findings to the public and private sectors in Extremadura. One-hundred and eighteen women with FM will be recruited and randomly distributed into the two groups: Experimental (Tele-SSE; n = 59) and control group (Usual care; n = 59). Primary outcome measures will be: 1) Applicability; 2) safety; 3) annual number of falls; and 4) incremental cost-effectiveness ratio. Secondary outcomes will be: 1) Balance; 2) fear of falling; 3) socio-demographic and clinical information; 4) body composition; 5) physical fitness; 6) physical activity and sedentary behavior; 7) quality of life-related to health, mental health, and positive health; 8) pain; 9) disability level; 10) cognitive aspects; and 11) depressive symptoms. Regarding the focus group, the acceptability of the Tele-SSE will be evaluated in social-sanitary agents and will include Tele-SSE in their services offer. A statistical analysis will be carried out by treatment intention and protocol. In addition, a cost-effectiveness analysis from the perspective of the health system will be performed. Discussion: This project aims to improve the efficiency and equity of physical therapy services based on tele-exercise in preventing falls in people with FM. Furthermore, orientations will be given in order to transfer the obtained findings into the social-sanitary system and market.
Influence of Nutritional Education on the Diet and Nutritional Behaviors of Elderly Women at the University of the Third Age
Authors: Michalczyk Małgorzata Magdalena , Zajac-Gawlak Izabela , Zając Adam , Pelclová Jana , Roczniok Robert , Langfort Józef
Published: January 2020

Background: The objective of this study was to evaluate the diet composition, body fat content, and physical activity (PA), considering blood lipid levels and insulin resistance markers, in elderly women who were well educated in nutrition and healthy lifestyle choices. Methods: A total of 106 postmenopausal women took part in the study. The study group included 62 students from the University of the Third Age (U3A); the control group (CG) included 44 females from the Silesia region. We evaluated their daily macro and micronutrient intake, levels of PA, percent of body fat (PBF), and the visceral fatty area (VFA). We also evaluated the lipid profile, insulin and glucose levels, homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels. Results: Significant differences were observed in carbohydrate, protein, fiber, as well as vitamins and minerals consumption between the U3A group and the CG. There were no differences in the PBF and VFA between the groups. Furthermore, no differences were shown in the measured blood variables. The U3A group walked more than 11,000 steps a day and performed 46.15 min/day of PA with a moderate intensity of 3–6 metabolic equivalents of task (METs, min/week). Conclusions: Despite the fact that the U3A group were physically active females, well educated on healthy, balanced diets and had the motivation to learn about proper nutritional behaviors, they did not follow these recommendations in everyday life.
System Approaches to Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Valcourt Nicholas , Javernick-Will Amy , Walters Jeffrey , Linden Karl
Published: January 2020

Endemic issues of sustainability in the water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) sector have led to the rapid expansion of ‘system approaches’ for assessing the multitude of interconnected factors that affect WASH outcomes. However, the sector lacks a systematic analysis and characterization of the knowledge base for systems approaches, in particular how and where they are being implemented and what outcomes have resulted from their application. To address this need, we conducted a wide-ranging systematic literature review of systems approaches for WASH across peer-reviewed, grey, and organizational literature. Our results show a myriad of methods, scopes, and applications within the sector, but an inadequate level of information in the literature to evaluate the utility and efficacy of systems approaches for improving WASH service sustainability. Based on this analysis, we propose four recommendations for improving the evidence base including: diversifying methods that explicitly evaluate interconnections between factors within WASH systems; expanding geopolitical applications; improving reporting on resources required to implement given approaches; and enhancing documentation of effects of systems approaches on WASH services. Overall, these findings provide a robust survey of the existing landscape of systems approaches for WASH and propose a path for future research in this emerging field.
Similarity Retention Loss (SRL) Based on Deep Metric Learning for Remote Sensing Image Retrieval
Authors: Zhao Hongwei , Yuan Lin , Zhao Haoyu
Published: January 2020

Recently, with the rapid growth of the number of datasets with remote sensing images, it is urgent to propose an effective image retrieval method to manage and use such image data. In this paper, we propose a deep metric learning strategy based on Similarity Retention Loss (SRL) for content-based remote sensing image retrieval. We have improved the current metric learning methods from the following aspects—sample mining, network model structure and metric loss function. On the basis of redefining the hard samples and easy samples, we mine the positive and negative samples according to the size and spatial distribution of the dataset classes. At the same time, Similarity Retention Loss is proposed and the ratio of easy samples to hard samples in the class is used to assign dynamic weights to the hard samples selected in the experiment to learn the sample structure characteristics within the class. For negative samples, different weights are set based on the spatial distribution of the surrounding samples to maintain the consistency of similar structures among classes. Finally, we conduct a large number of comprehensive experiments on two remote sensing datasets with the fine-tuning network. The experiment results show that the method used in this paper achieves the state-of-the-art performance.
Indoor Reconstruction from Floorplan Images with a Deep Learning Approach
Authors: Jang Hanme , Yu Kiyun , Yang JongHyeon
Published: January 2020

Although interest in indoor space modeling is increasing, the quantity of indoor spatial data available is currently very scarce compared to its demand. Many studies have been carried out to acquire indoor spatial information from floorplan images because they are relatively cheap and easy to access. However, existing studies do not take international standards and usability into consideration, they consider only 2D geometry. This study aims to generate basic data that can be converted to indoor spatial information using IndoorGML (Indoor Geography Markup Language) thick wall model or the CityGML (City Geography Markup Language) level of detail 2 by creating vector-formed data while preserving wall thickness. To achieve this, recent Convolutional Neural Networks are used on floorplan images to detect wall and door pixels. Additionally, centerline and corner detection algorithms were applied to convert wall and door images into vector data. In this manner, we obtained high-quality raster segmentation results and reliable vector data with node-edge structure and thickness attributes that enabled the structures of vertical and horizontal wall segments and diagonal walls to be determined with precision. Some of the vector results were converted into CityGML and IndoorGML form and visualized, demonstrating the validity of our work.
Age-Induced Differential Changes in the Central and Colonic Human Circadian Oscillators
Authors: Camello-Almaraz Cristina , Martin-Cano Francisco E. , Santos Francisco J. , Espin Mª Teresa , Antonio Madrid Juan , Pozo Maria J. , Camello Pedro J.
Published: January 2020

Aging modifies not only multiple cellular and homeostatic systems, but also biological rhythms. The circadian system is driven by a central hypothalamic oscillator which entrains peripheral oscillators, in both cases underlain by circadian genes. Our aim was to characterize the effect of aging in the circadian expression of clock genes in the human colon. Ambulatory recordings of the circadian rhythms of skin wrist temperature, motor activity and the integrated variable TAP (temperature, activity and position) were dampened by aging, especially beyond 74 years of age. On the contrary, quantitative analysis of genes expression in the muscle layer of colonic explants during 24 h revealed that the circadian expression of Bmal1, Per1 and Clock genes, was larger beyond that age. In vitro experiments showed that aging induced a parallel increase in the myogenic contractility of the circular colonic muscle. This effect was not accompanied by enhancement of Ca2+ signals. In conclusion, we describe here for the first time the presence of a molecular oscillator in the human colon. Aging has a differential effect on the systemic circadian rhythms, that are impaired by aging, and the colonic oscillator, that is strengthened in parallel with the myogenic contractility.
Cerebral Cavernous Malformation Proteins in Barrier Maintenance and Regulation
Authors: Wei Shu , Li Ye , Polster Sean P. , Weber Christopher R. , Awad Issam A. , Shen Le
Published: January 2020

Cerebral cavernous malformation (CCM) is a disease characterized by mulberry shaped clusters of dilated microvessels, primarily in the central nervous system. Such lesions can cause seizures, headaches, and stroke from brain bleeding. Loss-of-function germline and somatic mutations of a group of genes, called CCM genes, have been attributed to disease pathogenesis. In this review, we discuss the impact of CCM gene encoded proteins on cellular signaling, barrier function of endothelium and epithelium, and their contribution to CCM and potentially other diseases.
Differential Expression of SMAD Genes and S1PR1 on Circulating CD4+ T Cells in Multiple Sclerosis and Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Abarca-Zabalía Judith , García Ma Isabel , Lozano Ros Alberto , Marín-Jiménez Ignacio , Martínez-Ginés Maria L. , López-Cauce Beatriz , Martín-Barbero María L. , Salvador-Martín Sara , Sanjurjo-Saez María , García-Domínguez Jose M. , López Fernández Luis A.
Published: January 2020

The Th17 immune response plays a key role in autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Expression of Th17-related genes in inflamed tissues has been reported in autoimmune diseases. However, values are frequently obtained using invasive methods. We aimed to identify biomarkers of MS in an accessible sample, such as blood, by quantifying the relative expression of 91 Th17-related genes in CD4+ T lymphocytes from patients with MS during a relapse or during a remitting phase. We also compared our findings with those of healthy controls. After confirmation in a validation cohort, expression of SMAD7 and S1PR1 mRNAs was decreased in remitting disease (–2.3-fold and –1.3-fold, respectively) and relapsing disease (–2.2-fold and –1.3-fold, respectively). No differential expression was observed for other SMAD7-related genes, namely, SMAD2, SMAD3, and SMAD4. Under-regulation of SMAD7 and S1PR1 was also observed in another autoimmune disease, Crohn’s disease (CD) (−4.6-fold, -1.6-fold, respectively), suggesting the presence of common markers for autoimmune diseases. In addition, expression of TNF, SMAD2, SMAD3, and SMAD4 were also decreased in CD (–2.2-fold, –1.4-fold, –1.6-fold, and –1.6-fold, respectively). Our study suggests that expression of SMAD7 and S1PR1 mRNA in blood samples are markers for MS and CD, and TNF, SMAD2, SMAD3, and SMAD4 for CD. These genes could prove useful as markers of autoimmune diseases, thus obviating the need for invasive methods.
Patterns of Expression of Purinergic Receptor P2RY12, a Putative Marker for Non-Activated Microglia, in Aged and Alzheimer’s Disease Brains
Authors: Walker Douglas G. , Tang Tiffany M. , Mendsaikhan Anarmaa , Tooyama Ikuo , Serrano Geidy E. , Sue Lucia I. , Beach Thomas G. , Lue Lih-Fen
Published: January 2020

Neuroinflammation is considered a key pathological process in neurodegenerative diseases of aging, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Many studies have defined phenotypes of reactive microglia, the brain-resident macrophages, with different antigenic markers to identify those potentially causing inflammatory damage. We took an alternative approach with the goal of characterizing the distribution of purinergic receptor P2RY12-positive microglia, a marker previously defined as identifying homeostatic or non-activated microglia. We examined the expression of P2RY12 by dual-color light and fluorescence immunohistochemistry using sections of middle temporal gyrus from AD, high plaque and low plaque non-demented cases in relation to amyloid beta (Aβ) plaques and phosphorylated tau, markers of pathology, and HLA-DR, IBA-1, CD68, and progranulin, microglial phenotype markers. In low plaque cases, P2RY12-positive microglia mostly had non-activated morphologies, while the morphologies of P2RY12-positive microglia in AD brains were highly variable, suggesting its expression could encompass a wider range of phenotypes than originally hypothesized. P2RY12 expression by microglia differed depending on the types of plaques or tangles they were associated with. Areas of inflammation characterized by lack of P2RY12-positive microglia around mature plaques could be observed, but many diffuse plaques showed colocalization with P2RY12-positive microglia. Based on these results, P2RY12 expression by microglia should not be considered solely a marker of resting microglia as P2RY12 immunoreactivity was identifying microglia positive for CD68, progranulin and to a limited extent HLA-DR, markers of activation.
Natural Polyphenols Targeting Senescence: A Novel Prevention and Therapy Strategy for Cancer
Authors: Bian Yan , Wei Juntong , Zhao Changsheng , Li Guorong
Published: January 2020

Cancer is one of the most serious diseases endangering human health. In view of the side effects caused by chemotherapy and radiotherapy, it is necessary to develop low-toxic anti-cancer compounds. Polyphenols are natural compounds with anti-cancer properties and their application is a considerable choice. Pro-senescence therapy is a recently proposed anti-cancer strategy and has been shown to effectively inhibit cancer. It is of great significance to clarify the mechanisms of polyphenols on tumor suppression by inducing senescence. In this review, we delineated the characteristics of senescent cells, and summarized the mechanisms of polyphenols targeting tumor microenvironment and inducing cancer cell senescence for cancer prevention and therapy. Although many studies have shown that polyphenols effectively inhibit cancer by targeting senescence, it warrants further investigation in preclinical and clinical studies.