bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electric Vehicles Energy Management with V2G/G2V Multifactor Optimization of Smart Grids
Authors: Salvatti Gabriel , Carati Emerson , Cardoso Rafael , da Costa Jean , Stein Carlos
Published: March 2020

Energy Storage Systems (ESS) and Distributed Generation (DG) are topics in a large number of recent research works. Moreover, given the increasing adoption of EVs, high capacity EV batteries can be used as ESS, as most vehicles remain idle for long periods during work or home parking. However, the high EV penetration introduces some issues related to the charging power requirements, thereby increasing the peak demand for microgrids where EV chargers are installed. In addition, photovoltaic distributed generation is becoming another issue to deal with in EV charging microgrids. Therefore, this new scenario requires an Energy Management System (EMS) able to deal with charging demand, as well as with generation intermittency. This paper presents an EMS strategy for Microgrids that contain an EV parking lot (EVM), Photovoltaic (PV) arrays, and dynamic loads connected to the grid considering a Point of Common Coupling (PCC). The EVM-EMS utilizes the projections of future PV generation and future demand to accomplish a dynamic programming technique that optimizes the EVs’ charging (G2V) or discharging (V2G) profiles. This algorithm attends to user preferences while reducing the demand grid dependences and improves the microgrid efficiency.
An Energy-Efficient, Parallel Neighborhood and Adaptation Functions for Hardware Implemented Self-Organizing Maps Applied in Smart Grid
Authors: Kolasa Marta
Published: March 2020

Smart Grids (SGs) can be successfully supported by Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs), especially through these consisting of intelligent sensors, which are able to efficiently process the still growing amount of data. We propose a contribution to the development of such intelligent sensors, which in an advanced version can be equipped with embedded low-power artificial neural networks (ANNs), supporting the analysis and the classification of collected data. This approach allows to reduce the energy consumed by particular sensors during the communication with other nodes of a larger WSN. This in turn, facilitates the maintenance of a net of such sensors, which is a paramount feature in case of their application in SG devices distributed over a large area. In this work, we focus on a novel, energy-efficient neighborhood mechanism (NM) with the neighborhood function (NF). This mechanism belongs to main components of self learning ANNs. We propose a realization of this component as a specialized chip in the CMOS technology and its optimization in terms of the circuit complexity and the consumed energy. The circuit was realized as a prototype chip in the CMOS 130 nm technology, and verified by means of transistor level simulations and measurements.
Extrusion and Characterization of High Si/Al Ratio ZSM-5 Using Silica Binder
Authors: Almeida Ana , Ribeiro Rui P. P. L. , Mota José P. B. , Grande Carlos
Published: March 2020

Biogas upgrading is a key operation for transforming raw biogas into valuable biomethane that can be used as fuel or transported through pipelines. Pressure swing adsorption (PSA) is one possible technique that can be used for upgrading. ZSM-5 with high silica/aluminum (Si/Al) ratio has a reasonable CO2/CH4 selectivity and an almost linear CO2 adsorption isotherm, which can reduce power consumption. Extrusion of zeolites uses Al-based binders which can result in a denaturation and in a decrease of Si/Al ratio, promoting a steeper CO2 isotherm and also impacting the water adsorption. In this work, we have extruded a ZSM-5 (with a Si/Al = 200) using only silica-based binder. Different samples were obtained using different extrusion paste compositions and operating conditions and their textural properties characterized. The mechanical strength of the samples as well as the CO2, CH4, and H2O adsorption equilibrium isotherms at 303–343 K were measured. Our results show that it is possible to produce extrudates with mechanical resistance comparable to (or higher than) commercial zeolite materials with surface area reductions lower than 10% and little or no impact on the CO2/CH4 selectivity.
Thermal Assessment of Laminar Flow Liquid Cooling Blocks for LED Circuit Boards Used in Automotive Headlight Assemblies
Authors: Kilic Muhsin , Aktas Mehmet , Sevilgen Gokhan
Published: March 2020

This research work presents a comparative thermal performance assessment of the laminar flow cooling blocks produced for automotive headlight assembly using a high power Light Emitting Diode (LED) chip. A three-dimensional numerical model with conjugate heat transfer in solid and fluid domains was used. Laminar flow was considered in the present analysis. The validation of the numerical model was realized by using the measured data from the test rig. It was observed that substantial temperature variations were occurred around the LED chip owing to volumetric heat generation. The cooling board with lower height performs better thermal performance but higher pressure drop for the same mass flow rates. The cooling board with the finned cover plate performs better thermal performance but results in an increased pressure drop for the same mass flow rates. Increasing the power of the LED results in higher temperature values for the same mass flow rates. The junction temperature is highly dependent on the mass flow rates and LED power. It can be controlled by means of the mass flow rate of the coolant fluid. New Nusselt number correlations are proposed for laminar flow mini-channel liquid cooling block applications.
Addendum: Rozzi, E.; Minuto, F.D.; Lanzini, A.; Leone, P. Green Synthetic Fuels: Renewable Routes for the Conversion of Non-Fossil Feedstocks into Gaseous Fuels and Their End Uses. Energies 2020, 13, 420
Authors: Rozzi Elena , Minuto Francesco Demetrio , Lanzini Andrea , Leone Pierluigi
Published: March 2020

The research work leading to this paper [...]
AC Tie-Line Power Oscillation Mechanism and Peak Value Calculation for a Two-Area AC/DC Parallel Interconnected Power System Caused by LCC-HVDC Commutation Failures
Authors: Sun Li , Liu Hongbo , Ma Chenglian
Published: March 2020

With the rapid development of ultra-high-voltage (UHV) AC/DC, especially the step-by-step upgrading of the UHV DC transmission scale, security presents new challenges. Commutation failure (CF) is a common fault in line commutated converter (LCC) high-voltage direct current (HVDC) power systems. Once failure happens, it may cause power oscillations in a system. In this paper, taking a two-area AC/DC parallel interconnected power system as the example, based on the impulse response model of second-order linear system, the mechanism of power oscillation on the AC tie-line caused by CF are clarified. It is proved that the peak value of the AC tie-line power oscillation is mainly determined by the DC power and the equivalent CF duration, the frequency and damping ratio of dominant area oscillation mode. Meanwhile, the peak time is mainly determined by the oscillation frequency. Finally, the correctness and effectiveness of the algorithms are verified by a simulation analysis of an extended IEEE-39-bus AC/DC parallel interconnected power system. These research results can provide a basis for the arrangement of the operating modes and the formulation of control measures for interconnected power grids.
The Air Quality Perception of Residents in the Metropolitan Zone of Acapulco Who Live Around Intersections with Intense Traffic
Authors: Zárate Valencia Alfredo Ricardo , Reyes Umaña Maximino , Arellano Wences Hilda Janet , Rodríguez Rosales Antonio Alfonso , Rodríguez Alviso Columba , González González Justiniano
Published: March 2020

Air pollution is a global environmental problem that affects the population. This work demonstrates the perception of air quality by the population of the urban area of the municipality of Acapulco, Guerrero, Mexico. To meet the objective, a survey of 36 questions was applied to a sample of 382 people living in the main crossing points of vehicles, where there is more traffic and more severe pollutant concentration problems. We decided to apply the grouping method within a radius of 500 m around the selected intersections, where 95% of the respondents are aware that the air they breathe has a certain degree of contamination.
Bioactive Compounds in Food Waste: A Review on the Transformation of Food Waste to Animal Feed
Authors: Georganas Alexandros , Giamouri Elisavet , Pappas Athanasios C. , Papadomichelakis George , Galliou Fenia , Manios Thrassyvoulos , Tsiplakou Eleni , Fegeros Kostas , Zervas George
Published: March 2020

Bioactive compounds are substances which are present in foods in small amounts and have the ability to provide health benefits. Bioactive compounds include but are not limited to long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, vitamins, carotenoids, peptides, and polyphenols. The aim of the present study is to review literature for potential bioactive compounds present in food waste material and discuss the transformation of food waste to animal feed under the perspective that usage of food waste, rather than disposal, may tackle food insecurity and provide health benefits. Finally, applications in poultry and swine nutrition, with emphasis on the presence of fatty acids on food waste material, are discussed.
Comprehensive Characterization of Fruit Volatiles and Nutritional Quality of Three Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) Genotypes from Different Geographic Groups after Bagging Treatment
Authors: Shan Nan , Gan Zengyu , Nie Jing , Liu Huan , Wang Zhenyu , Sui Xiaolei
Published: March 2020

Bagging is widely practiced to produce high quality and unblemished fruit; however, little is currently known about the effect of bagging on flavor and nutritional quality of cucumber fruits. Here we determined the influence of bagging on fruit quality of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) using three genotypes from different geographic groups. Exocarp chlorophyll and carotenoid levels were significantly decreased by bagging, accompanied by color change. Ascorbate content in bagged fruits decreased to some extent, while contents of soluble sugars, starch, and cellulose were comparable with those of control fruits. Compositions related to fruit flavor quality could be enhanced largely through bagging treatment, with elevation of the relative proportion of C6 aldehyde, as well as (E,Z)-2,6-nonadienal/(E)-2-nonenal ratio, and linoleic/α-linolenic acid ratio. Lipoxygenase and hydroperoxide lyase, two key enzymes in the production of volatiles, displayed distinctive transcript expression patterns and trends in changes of enzymatic activity in the bagged fruits of different genotypes. Overall, this study assesses the information on changing characteristics of fruit volatile composition and nutritional quality among different cucumber genotypes after bagging treatment. Results of this study would contribute to providing reference for mechanism study and cultivation conditions to improve cucumber fruit flavor to a considerable degree.
Sprouted Barley Flour as a Nutritious and Functional Ingredient
Authors: Rico Daniel , Peñas Elena , García María del Carmen , Martínez-Villaluenga Cristina , Rai Dilip K. , Birsan Rares I. , Frias Juana , Martín-Diana Ana B.
Published: March 2020

The increasing demand for healthy food products has promoted the use of germinated seeds to produce functional flours. In this study, germination conditions were optimized in barley grains with the aim to produce flours with high nutritional and biofunctional potential using response surface methodology (RSM). The impact of germination time (0.8–6 days) and temperature (12–20 °C) on barley quality was studied. Non-germinated barley was used as the control. The content of vitamins B1, B2 and C, and proteins increased notably after germination, especially at longer times, while levels of fat, carbohydrates, fibre, and β-glucan were reduced. Total phenolic compounds, γ-aminobutyric acid and antioxidant activity determined by Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity increased between 2-fold and 4-fold during sprouting, depending on germination conditions and this increase was more pronounced at higher temperatures (16–20 °C) and longer times (5–6 days). Procyanidin B and ferulic acid were the main phenolics in the soluble and insoluble fraction, respectively. Procyanidin B levels decreased while bound ferulic acid content increased during germination. Germinated barley flours exhibited lower brightness and a higher glycemic index than the control ones. This study shows that germination at 16 °C for 3.5 days was the optimum process to obtain nutritious and functional barley flours. Under these conditions, sprouts retained 87% of the initial β-glucan content, and exhibited levels of ascorbic acid, riboflavin, phenolic compounds and GABA between 1.4-fold and 2.5-fold higher than the non-sprouted grain.
Water Cooking Stability of Dried Noodles Enriched with Different Particle Size and Concentration Green Tea Powders
Authors: Yu Kun , Zhou Hui-Ming , Zhu Ke-Xue , Guo Xiao-Na , Peng Wei
Published: March 2020

Incorporating green tea powder (GTP) into dried noodles enriched the functional characteristics of noodles. To achieve the maximum benefits from GTP, the water cooking stability of dried green tea noodles (DGTN) should be investigated. Indeed, antioxidant activities and phenolic compounds of DGTN after water cooking markedly decreased. The results showed that large GTP particles caused the increased cooking loss of DGTN, but the phenolic compound loss of DGTN prepared with them was low after cooking. Analysis of texture properties and microstructure showed that DGTN with a 2% concentration of large GTP particles formed some holes in the noodles’ network, and its breaking strength decreased. However, we observed that many GTP particles adhered to the surface of DGTN prepared with small GTP particles, and they were easier to lose after water cooking. Comprehensive analysis concluded that cooking loss, functional compounds retention and textural properties of DGTN were related to GTP particle size and concentration via the microstructure.
Effect of Co-Fermentation with Lactic Acid Bacteria and K. marxianus on Physicochemical and Sensory Properties of Goat Milk
Authors: Huang Zhihai , Huang Lu , Xing Guangliang , Xu Xiao , Tu Chuanhai , Dong Mingsheng
Published: March 2020

In this study, a multi-starters fermentation system involved lactic acid bacteria and yeasts was applied to obtain a novel acidified goat milk (AGM). Significant differences were found in the volatile flavor profile among goat milk, goat yogurt, and AGM reflected by principal component analysis of electronic nose (E-nose) data. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) results indicated that the relative content of free octanoic acid decreased, and more aromas were formed in AGM, which were considered to mask the goaty smell and give AGM a pleasant flavor. Rheological analysis indicated that AGM had higher apparent viscosity and G’ and G’’ moduli than goat yogurt and goat milk. Therefore, the goat yogurt fermented by lactic acid bacteria and K. marxianus exhibits a new method to alleviate the goaty flavor in goat milk and provides a novel option for those who were allergic to milk protein and dislike goaty flavor in goat milk.
Anticancer Activities of Meroterpenoids Isolated from the Brown Alga Cystoseira usneoides against the Human Colon Cancer Cells HT-29
Authors: Zbakh Hanaa , Zubía Eva , De Los Reyes Carolina , Calderón-Montaño José M. , Motilva Virginia
Published: March 2020

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common types of cancers and a leading cause of cancer death worldwide. The current treatment for CRC mainly involves surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. However, due to the side effects and the emergence of drug resistance, the search for new anticancer agents, pharmacologically safe and effective, is needed. In the present study, we have investigated the anticancer effects of eight algal meroterpenoids (AMTs, 1-8) isolated from the brown seaweed Cystoseira usneoides and their underlying mechanisms of action using HT-29, a highly metastatic human colon cancer cell line. All the tested meroterpenoids inhibited the growth of HT-29 malignant cells and were less toxic towards non-cancer colon cells, with the AMTs 1 and 5 exhibiting selectivity indexes of 5.26 and 5.23, respectively. Treatment of HT-29 cells with the AMTs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 7 induced cell cycle arrest in G2/M phase and, in some instances, apoptosis (compounds 2, 3, and 5). Compounds 1-8 also exhibited significant inhibitory effects on the migration and/or invasion of colon cancer cells. Mechanistic analysis demonstrated that the AMTs 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, and 8 reduced phosphorylation levels of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and the AMTs 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, and 8 decreased phosphorylation of c-JUN N-terminal kinase (JNK). Moreover, the AMTs 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, and 8 inhibited phosphorylation levels of protein kinase B (AKT) in colon carcinoma cells. These results provide new insights into the mechanisms and functions of the meroterpenoids of C. usneoides, which exhibit an anticancer effect on HT-29 colon cancer cells by inducing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis via the downregulation of ERK/JNK/AKT signaling pathways.
Evidence-Based Role of Nutrients and Antioxidants for Chronic Pain Management in Musculoskeletal Frailty and Sarcopenia in Aging
Authors: Perna Simone , Alalwan Tariq A. , Al-Thawadi Salwa , Negro Massimo , Parimbelli Mauro , Cerullo Giuseppe , Gasparri Clara , Guerriero Fabio , Infantino Vittoria , Diana Mariaconcetta , D’Antona Giuseppe , Rondanelli Mariangela
Published: March 2020

Musculoskeletal disorders in aging and pain are closely connected because of multiple mechanisms leading to loss of mobility and autonomy. Pain is predictive of diability and worsening frailty and the strength of this relationship increases with the severity of pain. This study presents a systematic review of randomized controlled trials, cross sectional studies, and observational studies based on treatment of pain in adults with musculoskeletal disorders using nutritional non-pharmacological (nutrients and antioxidants) interventions. The review found the efficiency of the following topics: (a) accession of the patient to a dietary counselling (e.g., daily recommended amount of protein—equivalent to at least of 1 g of protein per kilogram of body weight); (b) intake of glutamic acid-rich such as soy, egg, and cod and tryptophan-rich foods such as milk and peanuts—or taking quick-acting, free-form supplements; (c) supplementation of vitamin D and magnesium, if lacking; (d) weekly consumption of fish or supplements of omega-3 fatty acids; and (e) availability of botanicals, in particular curcumin and gingerol. These non-pharmacological interventions can help the pain therapist to create a personalized medicine (precision medicine), acting with the maximum efficacy and safety, and also reducing the dosage of analgesic drugs needed.
Cost-Effectiveness and Effects of a Home-Based Exercise Intervention for Female Caregivers of Relatives with Dementia: Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Madruga Miguel , Prieto Josué , Rohlfs Paloma , Gusi Narcís
Published: March 2020

Previous research has proposed a range of support interventions to mitigate the adverse impact of caregiving on the daily life of caregivers of relatives with dementia. However, the effectiveness of these interventions shows a high variability. Informal caregivers usually lack the time and/or live too far from conventional facilities to do physical exercise, especially those who live in rural areas. Thus, home-based interventions may be more efficacious due to their greater convenience for this population. The present work proposes and describes a study protocol for a randomized control trial that will analyze the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of a home-based, structured individual physical exercise intervention to improve the health-related quality of life and the mental health of female informal caregivers of relatives with dementia. The nine-month-long intervention will comprise participation in two supervised physical exercise sessions per week at the caregiver’s home. The proposed study outcomes will be: (1) feasibility of and adherence to the home-based provision of the intervention; (2) improvement in physical fitness and quality of life; and (3) reduction in subjective burden, psychological symptomatology and depression. Analyses will also be performed to determine the cost-effectiveness after the intervention. In conclusion, this intervention might thus represent a tailored and feasible strategy to help caregivers cope with the physical and psychological stress resulting from caregiving-related responsibilities, and it could represent a novel cost-effective support home-based intervention for caregivers.
Adaptability of Tree Species as Windbreaks for Urban Farms in the U.S. Intermountain West
Authors: Hansen Sheriden M. , Gunnell JayDee , Whaley Anthony , Dai Xin , Harding Cole , Black Brent L.
Published: March 2020

Windbreaks or shelterbelts are a management tool to protect crops from damaging horizontal wind flow, and may provide a useful buffer between farmland and urbanized areas by reducing pesticide drift, dust, and noise associated with farming activities. Plant selection for windbreaks in the Intermountain West can be difficult as high elevation coupled with extreme temperatures, high pH soils, and limited access to water are common. This study assessed eight tree species for suitability as a windbreak in the Intermountain West, with a particular focus on initial establishment and use at the urban–agriculture interface. Species were assessed for mortality, size, canopy density, insect and disease issues, and initial cost. Measurements of shadow characteristics were used as a novel approach to compare canopy density and porosity. Standard poplar (Populus x canadensis) and ‘Theves’ columnar poplar (Populus nigra ‘Afghanica’) were the most effective at rapid establishment, but species with more moderate growth rates, such as aspen, juniper, and hackberry, may provide lower long-term maintenance costs for the environmental conditions found in the Intermountain West.
Multi-Scale Multivariate Models for Small Area Health Survey Data: A Chilean Example
Authors: Lawson Andrew , Schritz Anna , Villarroel Luis , Aguayo Gloria A.
Published: March 2020

Background: We propose a general approach to the analysis of multivariate health outcome data where geo-coding at different spatial scales is available. We propose multiscale joint models which address the links between individual outcomes and also allow for correlation between areas. The models are highly novel in that they exploit survey data to provide multiscale estimates of the prevalences in small areas for a range of disease outcomes. Results The models incorporate both disease specific, and common disease spatially structured components. The multiple scales envisaged is where individual survey data is used to model regional prevalences or risks at an aggregate scale. This approach involves the use of survey weights as predictors within our Bayesian multivariate models. Missingness has to be addressed within these models and we use predictive inference which exploits the correlation between diseases to provide estimates of missing prevalances. The Case study we examine is from the National Health Survey of Chile where geocoding to Province level is available. In that survey, diabetes, Hypertension, obesity and elevated low-density cholesterol (LDL) are available but differential missingness requires that aggregation of estimates and also the assumption of smoothed sampling weights at the aggregate level. Conclusions: The methodology proposed is highly novel and flexibly handles multiple disease outcomes at individual and aggregated levels (i.e., multiscale joint models). The missingness mechanism adopted provides realistic estimates for inclusion in the aggregate model at Provincia level. The spatial structure of four diseases within Provincias has marked spatial differentiation, with diabetes and hypertension strongly clustered in central Provincias and obesity and LDL more clustered in the southern areas.
Quality of Life in POP: Validity, Reliability and Responsiveness of the Prolapse Quality of Life Questionnaire (P-QoL) in Spanish Women
Authors: Sánchez-Sánchez Beatriz , Yuste-Sánchez Maria José , Arranz-Martín Beatriz , Navarro-Brazález Beatriz , Romay-Barrero Helena , Torres-Lacomba María
Published: March 2020

The Prolapse Quality of Life Questionnaire (P-QoL) is a specific questionnaire created to assess the impact of pelvic organ prolapse on women’s quality of life. The aim of the present study was to cross-culturally adapt and assess the psychometric properties of the P-QoL for Spanish women. The cross-cultural adaptation was conducted by a standardized translation/back-translation method. Psychometric analysis was performed by assessing the validity, reliability, responsiveness and feasibility. A total of 200 Spanish women were recruited and assigned to symptomatic and asymptomatic groups. The Spanish P-QoL version demonstrated good content validity. Convergent validity showed high intercorrelations with the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory short form and the Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire short form. The discriminant validity showed statistically significant differences between the symptomatic and the asymptomatic groups. The internal consistency was high and of acceptable values. The test-retest reliability was shown to be high in all the cases. Regarding responsiveness, the effect size and standardized response mean demonstrated moderate values. The average time for administration was 10 (3) min. The Spanish P-QoL showed considerable support for the appropriate metric properties of validity, reliability, responsiveness and feasibility to evaluate the symptom severity and its impact on the quality of life in Spanish women with urogenital prolapse.
Drinking Water Investigation of Hill Tribes: A Case Study in Northern Thailand
Authors: Sudsandee Suntorn , Fakkaew Krailak , Keawdounglek Vivat , Laor Pussadee , Worakhunpiset Suwalee , Apidechkul Tawatchai
Published: March 2020

Hill tribes are a group of people who live in remote areas in northern Thailand. They typically use untreated water for drinking, that can lead several health problems. The six main hill tribes—Akha, Hmong, Karen, Lahu, Lisu, and Yao—were selected for the study. A validated questionnaire was used for data collection. Water samples were collected from the selected villages and tested for the quality at Mae Fah Luang University, Thailand. Results: the major sources of drinking water were mountain water supplies (74.3%), and commercial bottled water (21.4%). Easy access, sufficiency for the whole year, and food-drug administration sign labeled were the criteria used for selecting sources of drinking water. Colorless and safety were also used as a selection criteria for their drinking water in some tribes. Lisu, Karen, and Hmong treated their drinking water by boiling, while Akha and Lahu stored the water in certain containers to allow particle settling before drinking water without treatment. 42.0% of the water samples had a turbidity values <5 NTU, and total coliform and fecal coliform bacteria were detected in 100.0% of the samples. To prevent water-borne diseases among the hill tribe people, appropriate water treatments such as boiling, filtration, and disinfection are recommended.
Measuring Child Socio-Economic Position in Birth Cohort Research: The Development of a Novel Standardized Household Income Indicator
Authors: Pizzi Costanza , Richiardi Matteo , Charles Marie-Aline , Heude Barbara , Lanoe Jean-Louis , Lioret Sandrine , Brescianini Sonia , Toccaceli Virgilia , Vrijheid Martine , Merletti Franco , Zugna Daniela , Richiardi Lorenzo
Published: March 2020

The assessment of early life socioeconomic position (SEP) is essential to the tackling of social inequalities in health. Although different indicators capture different SEP dimensions, maternal education is often used as the only indicator in birth cohort research, especially in multi-cohort analyses. Household income, as a direct measure of material resources, is one of the most important indicators, but one that is underused because it is difficult to measure through questionnaires. We propose a method to construct a standardized, cross-cohort comparable income indicator, the “Equivalized Household Income Indicator (EHII)”, which measures the equivalized disposable household income, using external data from the pan-European Union Statistics on Income and Living Conditions (EUSILC) surveys, and data from the cohorts. We apply this method to four studies, Piccolipiù and NINFEA from Italy and ELFE and EDEN from France, comparing the distribution of EHII with other SEP-related variables available in the cohorts, and estimating the association between EHII and child body mass index (BMI). We found that basic parental and household characteristics may be used, with a fairly good performance, to predict the household income. We observed a strong correlation between EHII and both the self-reported income, whenever available, and other individual socioeconomic-related variables, and an inverse association with child BMI. EHII could contribute to improving research on social inequalities in health, in particular in the context of European birth cohort collaborative studies.
The Association Between Sedentary Behavior and Sarcopenia Among Adults Aged ≥65 Years in Low- and Middle-Income Countries
Authors: Smith Lee , Tully Mark , Jacob Louis , Blackburn Nicole , Adlakha Deepti , Caserotti Paolo , Soysal Pinar , Veronese Nicola , López Sánchez Guillermo F. , Vancampfort Davy , Koyanagi Ai
Published: March 2020

The present study aimed to assess the association between sedentary behavior and sarcopenia among adults aged ≥65 years. Cross-sectional data from the Study on Global Ageing and Adult Health were analyzed. Sarcopenia was defined as having low skeletal muscle mass and either a slow gait speed or a weak handgrip strength. Self-reported sedentary behavior was assessed as a continuous variable (hours per day) and also as a categorical variable (0–<4, 4–<8, 8–<11, ≥11 hours/day). Multivariable logistic regression was conducted to assess the association between sedentary behavior and sarcopenia. Analyses using the overall sample and country-wise samples were conducted. A total of 14,585 participants aged ≥65 years were included in the analysis. Their mean age was 72.6 (standard deviation, 11.5) years and 55% were females. Compared to sedentary behavior of 0–<4 hours/day, ≥11 hours/day was significantly associated with 2.14 (95% CI = 1.06–4.33) times higher odds for sarcopenia. The country-wise analysis showed that overall, a one-hour increase in sedentary behavior per day was associated with 1.06 (95% CI = 1.04–1.10) times higher odds for sarcopenia, while the level of between-country heterogeneity was low (I2 = 12.9%). Public health and healthcare practitioners may wish to target reductions in sedentary behavior to aid in the prevention of sarcopenia in older adults.
The Development of a Proactive Burnout Prevention Inventory: How Employees Can Contribute to Reduce Burnout Risks
Authors: Otto Madelon C. B. , Van Ruysseveldt Joris , Hoefsmit Nicole , Dam Karen Van
Published: March 2020

Proactive burnout prevention refers to a set of proactive behaviors employees may engage in to prevent burnout. Findings of a previous exploratory qualitative study indicated that employees who had to deal with high demands engaged in specific proactive behaviors in the work, home, and personal domain in order to prevent burnout. To further examine proactive burnout prevention in longitudinal quantitative research and to be able to investigate its effectiveness, an inventory for assessing these kinds of behaviors is necessary. The goal of this study was twofold: 1) to develop an inventory to assess employees’ proactive burnout prevention behaviors and examine its factorial validity, 2) to explore the broader nomological network of proactive burnout prevention behaviors by examining its convergent, discriminant, and predictive validity. A two-wave longitudinal survey (T1: N = 343; T2: N = 201) was conducted. The results of exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis showed that proactive burnout prevention can be reliably assessed with 40 items that load on 12 factors, indicating 12 separate proactive burnout prevention behaviors. Moreover, exploration of the convergent, discriminant, and predictive validity of the proactive burnout prevention inventory showed promising results, as expected relationships were confirmed for most behaviors. Further research is needed to substantiate the findings and examine the effectiveness of proactive burnout prevention.
Integration of Remote Sensing and GIS to Extract Plantation Rows from A Drone-Based Image Point Cloud Digital Surface Model
Authors: Fareed Nadeem , Rehman Khushbakht
Published: March 2020

Automated feature extraction from drone-based image point clouds (DIPC) is of paramount importance in precision agriculture (PA). PA is blessed with mechanized row seedlings to attain maximum yield and best management practices. Therefore, automated plantation rows extraction is essential in crop harvesting, pest management, and plant grow-rate predictions. Most of the existing research is consists on red, green, and blue (RGB) image-based solutions to extract plantation rows with the minimal background noise of test study sites. DIPC-based DSM row extraction solutions have not been tested frequently. In this research work, an automated method is designed to extract plantation row from DIPC-based DSM. The chosen plantation compartments have three different levels of background noise in UAVs images, therefore, methodology was tested under different background noises. The extraction results were quantified in terms of completeness, correctness, quality, and F1-score values. The case study revealed the potential of DIPC-based solution to extraction the plantation rows with an F1-score value of 0.94 for a plantation compartment with minimal background noises, 0.91 value for a highly noised compartment, and 0.85 for a compartment where DIPC was compromised. The evaluation suggests that DSM-based solutions are robust as compared to RGB image-based solutions to extract plantation-rows. Additionally, DSM-based solutions can be further extended to assess the plantation rows surface deformation caused by humans and machines and state-of-the-art is redefined.
PINK1/Parkin Mediated Mitophagy, Ca2+ Signalling, and ER–Mitochondria Contacts in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Barazzuol Lucia , Giamogante Flavia , Brini Marisa , Calì Tito
Published: March 2020

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER)–mitochondria contact sites are critical structures for cellular function. They are implicated in a plethora of cellular processes, including Ca2+ signalling and mitophagy, the selective degradation of damaged mitochondria. Phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN)-induced kinase (PINK) and Parkin proteins, whose mutations are associated with familial forms of Parkinson’s disease, are two of the best characterized mitophagy players. They accumulate at ER–mitochondria contact sites and modulate organelles crosstalk. Alterations in ER–mitochondria tethering are a common hallmark of many neurodegenerative diseases including Parkinson’s disease. Here, we summarize the current knowledge on the involvement of PINK1 and Parkin at the ER–mitochondria contact sites and their role in the modulation of Ca2+ signalling and mitophagy.
The Role of NFκB in Healthy and Preeclamptic Placenta: Trophoblasts in the Spotlight
Authors: Armistead Brooke , Kadam Leena , Drewlo Sascha , Kohan-Ghadr Hamid-Reza
Published: March 2020

The NFκB protein family regulates numerous pathways within the cell—including inflammation, hypoxia, angiogenesis and oxidative stress—all of which are implicated in placental development. The placenta is a critical organ that develops during pregnancy that primarily functions to supply and transport the nutrients required for fetal growth and development. Abnormal placental development can be observed in numerous disorders during pregnancy, including fetal growth restriction, miscarriage, and preeclampsia (PE). NFκB is highly expressed in the placentas of women with PE, however its contributions to the syndrome are not fully understood. In this review we discuss the molecular actions and related pathways of NFκB in the placenta and highlight areas of research that need attention
A Possible Link of Genetic Variations in ER/IGF1R Pathway and Risk of Melanoma
Authors: Yuan Tze-An , Yourk Vandy , Farhat Ali , Guo Katherine L. , Garcia Angela , Meyskens Frank L. , Liu-Smith Feng
Published: March 2020

The mechanism of gender disparity in cutaneous melanoma incidence remains unclear. Steroid hormones including estrogens have long been implicated in the course of melanoma, but the conclusion is controversial. Estrogen receptors (ERs) and insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R) show extensive crosstalk in cancer development, but how the ER/IGF1R network impacts melanoma is currently unclear. Here we studied the melanoma associations of selected SNPs from the ER/IGF1R network. Part of the International Genes, Environment, and Melanoma (GEM) cohort was used as a discovery set, and the Gene Environment Association Studies Initiative (GENEVA) dataset served as a validation set. Based on the associations with other malignant disease conditions, thirteen single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) variants in ESR1, ESR2, IGF1, and IGF1R were selected for candidate gene association analyses. The rs1520220 in IGF1 and rs2229765 in IGF1R variants were significantly associated with melanoma risk in the GEM dataset after Benjamini-Hochberg multiple comparison correction, although they were not validated in the GENEVA set. The discrepancy may be caused by the multiple melanoma characteristics in the GEM patients. Further analysis of gender disparity was carried out for IGF1 and IGF1R SNPs in the GEM dataset. The GG phenotype in IGF1 rs1520220 (recessive model) presented an increased risk of melanoma (OR = 8.11, 95% CI: 2.20, 52.5, p = 0.006) in men but a significant opposite effect in women (OR = 0.15, 95% CI: 0.018, 0.86, p = 0.045). The AA genotype in IGF1R rs2229765 (recessive model) showed a significant protective effect in men (OR = 0.24, 95% CI: 0.07, 0.64, p = 0.008) and no effect in women. Results from the current study are warranted for further validation.
(R)-(+)-β-Citronellol and (S)-(−)-β-Citronellol in Combination with Amphotericin B against Candida Spp.
Authors: Silva Daniele , Diniz-Neto Hermes , Cordeiro Laísa , Silva-Neta Maria , Silva Shellygton , Andrade-Júnior Francisco , Leite Maria , Nóbrega Jefferson , Morais Maria , Souza Juliana , Rosa Lyvia , Melo Thamara , Souza Helivaldo , Sousa Aleson , Rodrigues Gregório , Oliveira-Filho Abrahão , Lima Edeltrudes
Published: March 2020

The enantiomers (R)-(+)-β-citronellol and (S)-(−)-β-citronellol are present in many medicinal plants, but little is understood about their bioactivity against Candida yeasts. This study aimed to evaluate the behavior of positive and negative enantiomers of β-citronellol on strains of Candida albicans and C. tropicalis involved in candidemia. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicide concentration (MFC) were determined. The evaluation of growth kinetics, mechanism of action, and association studies with Amphotericin B (AB) using the checkerboard method was also performed. R-(+)-β-citronellol and S-(−)-β-citronellol presented a MIC50% of 64 µg/mL and a MFC50% of 256 µg/mL for C. albicans strains. For C. tropicalis, the isomers exhibited a MIC50% of 256 µg/mL and a MFC50% of 1024 µg/mL. In the mechanism of action assay, both substances displayed an effect on the fungal membrane but not on the fungal cell wall. Synergism and indifference were observed in the association of R-(+)-β-citronellol and AB, while the association between S-(−)-β-citronellol and AB displayed synergism, additivity, and indifference. In conclusion, both isomers of β-citronellol presented a similar profile of antifungal activity. Hence, they can be contemplated in the development of new antifungal drugs providing that further research is conducted about their pharmacology and toxicity.
Modulation of Energy Metabolism Is Important for Low-Oxygen Stress Adaptation in Brassicaceae Species
Authors: Hwang Ji-Hye , Yu Si-in , Lee Byeong-ha , Lee Dong-Hee
Published: March 2020

Low-oxygen stress, mainly caused by soil flooding, is a serious abiotic stress affecting crop productivity worldwide. To understand the mechanisms of low-oxygen stress responses and adaptation of plants, we characterized and compared low-oxygen responses in six species with different accessions of the Brassicaceae family. Based on the growth and survival responses to submergence or low-oxygen condition, these accessions could be divided into three groups: (i) Highly tolerant species (Rorippa islandica and Arabis stelleri); (ii) moderately tolerant species (Arabidopsis thaliana [esk-1, Ler, Ws and Col-0 ecotype]); and (iii) intolerant species (Thlaspi arvense, Thellungiella salsuginea [Shandong and Yukon ecotype], and Thellungiella parvula). Gene expression profiling using Operon Arabidopsis microarray was carried out with RNA from roots of A. thaliana (Col-0), A. stelleri, R. islandica, and T. salsuginea (Shandong) treated with low-oxygen stress (0.1% O2/99.9% N2) for 0, 1, 3, 8, 24, and 72 h. We performed a comparative analysis of the gene expression profiles using the gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) method. Our comparative analysis suggested that under low-oxygen stress each species distinctively reconfigures the energy metabolic pathways including sucrose–starch metabolism, glycolysis, fermentation and nitrogen metabolism, tricarboxylic acid flow, and fatty acid degradation via beta oxidation and glyoxylate cycle. In A. thaliana, a moderately tolerant species, the dynamical reconfiguration of energy metabolisms occurred in the early time points of low-oxygen treatment, but the energy reconfiguration in the late time points was not as dynamic as in the early time points. Highly tolerant A. stelleri appeared to have high photosynthesis capacity that could produce more O2 and in turn additional ATP energy to cope with energy depletion caused by low-oxygen stress. R. islandica seemed to retain some ATP energy produced by anaerobic energy metabolism during a prolonged period of low-oxygen conditions. Intolerant T. salsuginea did not show significant changes in the expression of genes involved in anaerobic energy metabolisms. These results indicate that plants developed different energy metabolisms to cope with the energy crisis caused by low-oxygen stress.
Altered Cofactor Preference of Thermostable StDAPDH by a Single Mutation at K159
Authors: Gao Xiuzhen , Ma Qinyuan , Song Huihui , Sun Xinming , Li Zhiyun , Liu Mingfei
Published: March 2020

D-amino acid production from 2-keto acid by reductive amination is an attractive pathway because of its high yield and environmental safety. StDAPDH, a meso-diaminopimelate dehydrogenase (meso-DAPDH) from Symbiobacterium thermophilum, was the first meso-DAPDH to show amination of 2-keto acids. Furthermore, StDAPDH shows excellent thermostability compared to other meso-DAPDHs. However, the cofactor of StDAPDH is NADP(H), which is less common than NAD(H) in industrial applications. Therefore, cofactor engineering for StDAPDH is needed. In this study, the highly conserved cofactor binding sites around the adenosine moiety of NADPH were targeted to determine cofactor specificity. Lysine residues within a loop were found to be critical for the cofactor specificity of StDAPDH. Replacement of lysine with arginine resulted in the activity of pyruvic acid with NADH as the cofactor. The affinity of K159R to pyruvic acid was equal with NADH or NADPH as the cofactor, regardless of the mutation. Molecular dynamics simulations revealed that the large steric hindrance of arginine and the interaction of the salt bridge between NADH and arginine may have restricted the free movement of NADH, which prompted the formation of a stable active conformation of mutant K159R. These results provide further understanding of the catalytic mechanism of StDAPDH and guidance for the cofactor engineering of StDAPDH.
Research Advances of Beneficial Microbiota Associated with Crop Plants
Authors: Tian Lei , Lin Xiaolong , Tian Jun , Ji Li , Chen Yalin , Tran Lam-Son Phan , Tian Chunjie
Published: March 2020

Plants are associated with hundreds of thousands of microbes that are present outside on the surfaces or colonizing inside plant organs, such as leaves and roots. Plant-associated microbiota plays a vital role in regulating various biological processes and affects a wide range of traits involved in plant growth and development, as well as plant responses to adverse environmental conditions. An increasing number of studies have illustrated the important role of microbiota in crop plant growth and environmental stress resistance, which overall assists agricultural sustainability. Beneficial bacteria and fungi have been isolated and applied, which show potential applications in the improvement of agricultural technologies, as well as plant growth promotion and stress resistance, which all lead to enhanced crop yields. The symbioses of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, rhizobia and Frankia species with their host plants have been intensively studied to provide mechanistic insights into the mutual beneficial relationship of plant–microbe interactions. With the advances in second generation sequencing and omic technologies, a number of important mechanisms underlying plant–microbe interactions have been unraveled. However, the associations of microbes with their host plants are more complicated than expected, and many questions remain without proper answers. These include the influence of microbiota on the allelochemical effect caused by one plant upon another via the production of chemical compounds, or how the monoculture of crops influences their rhizosphere microbial community and diversity, which in turn affects the crop growth and responses to environmental stresses. In this review, first, we systematically illustrate the impacts of beneficial microbiota, particularly beneficial bacteria and fungi on crop plant growth and development and, then, discuss the correlations between the beneficial microbiota and their host plants. Finally, we provide some perspectives for future studies on plant–microbe interactions.
Exposure to Mono-n-Butyl Phthalate in Women with Endometriosis and Its Association with the Biological Effects on Human Granulosa Cells
Authors: Chou Ya-Ching , Chen Yu-Chun , Chen Ming-Jer , Chang Ching-Wen , Lai Guan-Lin , Tzeng Chii-Ruey
Published: March 2020

To study the association between urinary phthalate metabolite levels, endometriosis, and their effects on human granulosa cells, we recruited patients who underwent laparoscopy to confirm endometriosis (n = 123) and control patients (n = 78). Liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry was used to measure the following five urinary phthalate metabolites: mono-n-butyl phthalate (MnBP), mono(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, monobenzyl phthalate, mono(2-ethyl-5-oxo-hexyl) phthalate, and mono(2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl) phthalate. Urinary MnBP levels were higher in patients with endometriosis than in controls after multivariable logistic regression including the number of deliveries, body mass index, and use of medicine as covariables. MnBP correlates with other phthalate metabolites. Previous studies found that endometriosis was a detrimental condition for granulosa cells. In our study, we observed whether MnBP affected granulosa cells. MnBP treatment altered the gene expression of BIRC5, BUB1B, CDC20, cyclin B1, IL-1β, TNF-α, inhibin-B, StAR, and P450ssc and attenuated the ratio of the mitochondrial membrane potential in human granulosa cells. Moreover, MnBP decreased the expression of the anti-Mullerian hormone. These findings suggest that MnBP concentration is associated with endometriosis and may affect the health and steroidogenesis of human granulosa cells.