bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and Structural Studies of Two New Anthracene Derivatives
Authors: Costa Rogério F. , Oliveira Marilene S. , Aguiar Antônio S. N. , Custodio Jean M. F. , Di Mascio Paolo , Sabino José R. , Verde Giuliana V. , Souza João Carlos Perbone de , Santin Lauriane G. , Camargo Ademir J. , Barbosa Inaya C. , Oliveira Solemar S. , Napolitano Hamilton B.
Published: August 2021

Anthracene derivatives are an interesting class of compounds and modifications in the anthracene ring, producing different compounds with different properties. Structural analysis of anthracene derivatives with modifications in position 9,10 of the aromatic ring is necessary in order to obtain information about its properties. The introduction of groups with polar substituents increases the possibility to modify the molecule lipophilicity, corroborating its use as bioimaging probes. Anthracene derivatives are used in many biochemical applications. These compounds can react with molecular singlet oxygen [O2 (1Δg)], a reactive oxygen species, through the Diels–Alder reaction [4 + 2] to form the respective endoperoxide and to be used as a chemical trap in biological systems. Thus, the structural and crystalline characterizations of two anthracene derivatives are presented in this work to obtain information about their physical-chemical properties. The compounds were characterized by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analyses and scanning electron microscopy. The molecular structures of the compounds were studied by the Density Functional Theory, M06-2X/6-311++G(d,p) level of theory in the gas phase. From the results obtained for the frontier molecular orbitals, HOMO and LUMO, and from the Molecular Electrostatic Potential map, it was possible to predict the chemical properties of both compounds. The supramolecular arrangements were also theoretically studied, whose molecules were kept fixed in their crystallographic positions, through the natural bonding orbitals analysis to check the stability of interactions and the quantum theory of atoms in molecules to verify the type of intermolecular interaction between their molecules, as well as how they occur.
Effect of Al2O3–SiO2 Addition on Gehlenite Growth and the Mechanical Performance of Steel Slag
Authors: Xu Ying , Song Pan , Cao Weigang , Li Hui , Liang Jinglong
Published: August 2021

Steel slag, as industrial solid waste, is difficult to recycle owing to its complex components and poor mechanical properties. However, steel slag can be modified by adding Al2O3–SiO2 through high temperature sintering, which would improve the mechanical properties and expand the scope of its application. The phase changing, morphology evolution and the mechanical properties of the modified steel slag were investigated. The results indicate that the main phase changes to gehlenite occur with increasing temperature. The compressive strength increases to 115 MPa at 1350 °C. The relationship of the quantity of gehlenite and the compressive strength were explored.
Residual Repeated Impact Strength of Concrete Exposed to Elevated Temperatures
Authors: Al-Ameri Raad A. , Abid Sallal R. , Murali G. , Ali Sajjad H. , Özakça Mustafa
Published: August 2021

Portland cement concrete is known to have good fire resistance; however, its strength would be degraded after exposure to the temperatures of fire. Repeated low-velocity impacts are a type of probable accidental load in many types of structures. Although there is a rich body of literature on the residual mechanical properties of concrete after high temperature exposure, the residual repeated impact performance of concrete has still not been well explored. For this purpose, an experimental study was conducted in this work to evaluate the effect of high temperatures on the repeated impact strength of normal strength concrete. Seven identical concrete patches with six disc specimens each were cast and tested using the ACI 544-2R repeated impact setup at ambient temperature and after exposure to 100, 200, 300, 400, 500 and 500 °C. Similarly, six cubes and six prisms from each patch were used to evaluate the residual compressive and flexural strengths at the same conditions. Additionally, the scattering of the impact strength results was examined using three methods of the Weibull distribution, and the results are presented in terms of reliability. The test results show that the cracking and failure impact numbers of specimens heated to 100 °C reduced slightly by only 2.4 and 3.5%, respectively, while heating to higher temperatures deteriorated the impact resistance much faster than the compressive and flexural strengths. The percentage reduction in impact resistance at 600 °C was generally higher than 96%. It was also found that the deduction trend of the impact strength with temperature is more related to that of the flexural strength than the compressive strength. The test results also show that, within the limits of the adopted concrete type and conducted tests, the strength reduction after high temperature exposure is related to the percentage weight loss.
Immune-Mediated Desquamative Gingivitis and Optical Coherence Tomography Diagnostic Patterns: Clinical Implication from a Systematic Review
Authors: Panzarella Vera , Bartolone Alessia , Rodolico Vito , Capocasale Giorgia , Maniscalco Laura , Matranga Domenica , Di Fede Olga , Campisi Giuseppina
Published: August 2021

Desquamative Gingivitis (DG) comprises heterogeneous clinical manifestations of numerous immune-mediated muco-cutaneous diseases. Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) has been proposed as a valuable diagnostic support even if, to date, there are no standardized OCT-diagnostic patterns applicable to DGs. A systematic review was performed to detect existing data on in vivo OCT diagnostic patterns of the most common immune-mediated DGs (i.e., pemphigus vulgaris, mucous membrane pemphigoid and oral lichen planus). It has been found that OCT exhibits specific patterns that address the diagnosis of DG by pemphigus vulgaris (i.e., intraepithelial unilocular blister, reduced epithelial thickness, presence of acantholytic cells in the blister) and by mucous membrane pemphigoid (i.e., subepithelial multilocular blister, presence of inflammatory infiltrate), but not by oral lichen planus. These patterns could offer an attractive diagnostic OCT framework to support the clinical preliminary assessment and monitoring of these complex pathological conditions.
Prenatal Diagnosis of True Fetal Mosaicism with Small Supernumerary Marker Chromosome Derived from Chromosome 16 by Funipuncture and Molecular Cytogenetics Including Chromosome Microarray
Authors: Yao Tien-Yu , Wu Wan-Ju , Law Kim-Seng , Lee Mei-Hui , Chang Shun-Ping , Lee Dong-Jay , Lin Wen-Hsiang , Chen Ming , Ma Gwo-Chin
Published: August 2021

This study examined the molecular characterization of a prenatal case with true fetal mosaicism of small supernumerary marker chromosome 16 (sSMC(16)). A 41-year-old female underwent amniocentesis at 19 weeks of gestation due to advanced maternal age. Chromosomal analysis for cultured amniocytes revealed a karyotype of 47,XY,+mar[4]/46,XY[16]. Spectral karyotyping and metaphase fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) demonstrated that the sSMC was derived from chromosome 16 (47,XY,+mar.ish der(16)(D16Z1+)[13/20]). Confined placental mosaicism was initially suspected because the prenatal ultrasound revealed a normal structure and the pregnancy was uneventful. However, interphase FISH of cord blood performed at 28 weeks of gestation showed 20% mosaicism of trisomy chromosome 16 (nuc ish(D16Z2×3)[40/200]). Chromosome microarray analysis further demonstrated 55% mosaicism of an 8.02 Mb segmental duplication at the subcentromeric region of 16p12.1p11.1 (arr[GRCh37] 16p12.1p11.1(27021975_35045499)×3[0.55]). The results demonstrated a true fetal mosaicism of sSMC(16) involving chromosome16p12.1p11.1 that is associated with chromosome 16p11.2 duplication syndrome (OMIM #614671). After non-directive genetic counseling, the couple opted for late termination of pregnancy. This case illustrated the use of multiple molecular cytogenetic tools to elucidate the origin and structure of sSMC, which is crucial for prenatal counseling, decision making, and clinical management.
Next-Generation Sequencing Analysis of Root Canal Microbiota Associated with a Severe Endodontic-Periodontal Lesion
Authors: Buonavoglia Alessio , Lanave Gianvito , Camero Michele , Corrente Marialaura , Parisi Antonio , Martella Vito , Prati Carlo
Published: August 2021

A patient with an unusual endo-periodontal lesion, without coronal decay or damage, likely caused by a deep periodontal lesion with subsequent endodontic bacterial migration, required medical care. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) was used to assess the endodontic microbiota in vestibular and palatal canals after tooth extraction, evidencing a predominant population (Fusobacterium nucleatum) in one endodontic canal, and a mixed bacterial population with six major populations almost equally distributed in the other endodontic canal (F. nucleatum, Porphyromonas gingivalis, P. endodontis, Parvimonas, Peptostreptococcus stomatis, Prevotella multiformis). These data could suggest different, separated ecologic niches in the same endodontic system, with potentially different pathogenicity levels, clinical manifestations and prognoses for every single canal of the same tooth.
Value of 18F-PSMA-PET/MRI for Assessment of Recurring Ranula
Authors: Tilsen Felix , Reinert Siegmar , Schäfer Jürgen Frank , la Fougère Christian , Valentin Anthony , Reinert Christian Philipp
Published: August 2021

We report the case of a 6-year-old patient with suspected recurrence of a plunging ranula in clinical and ultrasonographic examination. Surgical resection of the left submandibular and sublingual glands had already been performed. Since persistent glandular tissue could not be excluded with certainty via MRI, we expanded diagnostics by performing a PET/MRI using a head and neck imaging protocol and the radiotracer 18F-PSMA-1007, which is physiologically expressed by salivary gland tissue. The 18F-PSMA-PET/MRI provided evidence of a cystically transformed, diminishing seroma in the left retro-/submandibular region. No 18F-PSMA expressing glandular tissue could be detected in the area of resection, excluding a relapse of a plunging ranula. As a consequence, we opted for a conservative treatment without further surgical intervention. We conclude that a simultaneous 18F-PSMA-PET/MRI is a comprehensive imaging modality, which can help to rule out persistent salivary tissue and recurring plunging ranula. It is a useful tool to facilitate the decision making of surgical interventions.
ALDH1 and SALL4 Expression in Cell Block Samples from Patients with Lung Adenocarcinoma and Malignant Pleural Effusion
Authors: Kanayama Tomohiro , Taniguchi Toshiaki , Tomita Hiroyuki , Niwa Ayumi , Noguchi Kei , Matsuo Mikiko , Imaizumi Yuko , Kuroda Takahiro , Hatano Yuichiro , Okazaki Isao , Kato Tatsuo , Hara Akira
Published: August 2021

Malignant pleural effusion (MPE) can accompany advanced lung adenocarcinoma. Recent studies suggest that MPE could contain a heterogeneous subpopulation of cells with stem-like properties, such as tumorigenicity and self-renewal, indicating that they could be the source of metastasis. Although previous studies analyzed the correlation between cancer stem cell (CSC) marker expression and clinical outcomes using lung cancer tissues, investigations regarding the association of MPE with CSC marker expression are limited. We performed immunohistochemistry to examine the expression of aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 (ALDH1) and Sal-like 4 (SALL4) in 46 cell block samples of MPE from patients with lung adenocarcinoma. ALDH1-positive and SALL4-positive cancer cells in MPE were detected in 30 (65.2%) and 21 samples (45.7%), respectively. Cluster formation was detected in 26 samples (56.5%). The number of clusters was significantly higher in ALDH1-positive/SALL4-negative samples. SALL4 expression was inversely correlated with the cluster ratio (r = −0.356) and positively associated with the Ki-67 index (r = 0.326), suggesting that MPE cells with high SALL4 expression comprised the proliferative subpopulation. In conclusion, we demonstrated that MPE contains an ALDH1-positive/SALL4-negative subpopulation exhibiting cluster formation and a SALL4-positive proliferative subpopulation.
Entropy and Fractal Dimension Study of the TDP-43 Protein Low Complexity Domain Sequence in ALS Disease Severity and SARS-CoV-2 Gene Sequences in Virulence Variability
Authors: Dehipawala Sunil , Cheung Eric , Tremberger George , Cheung Tak
Published: August 2021

The low complexity domain (LCD) sequence has been defined in terms of entropy using a 12 amino acid sliding window along a protein sequence in the study of disease-related genes. The amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)-related TDP-43 protein sequence with intra-LCD structural information based on cryo-EM data was published recently. An application of entropy and Higuchi fractal dimension calculations was described using the Znf521 and HAR1 sequences. A computational analysis of the intra-LCD sequence entropy and Higuchi fractal dimension values at the amino acid level and at the ATCG nucleotide level were conducted without the sliding window requirement. The computational results were consistent in predicting the intermediate entropy/fractal dimension value produced when two subsequences at two different entropy/fractal dimension values were combined. The computational method without the application of a sliding-window was extended to an analysis of the recently reported virulent genes—Orf6, Nsp6, and Orf7a—in SARS-CoV-2. The relationship between the virulence functionality and entropy values was found to have correlation coefficients between 0.84 and 0.99, using a 5% uncertainty on the cell viability data. The analysis found that the most virulent Orf6 gene sequence had the lowest nucleotide entropy and the highest protein fractal dimension, in line with extreme value theory. The Orf6 codon usage bias in relation to vaccine design was discussed.
Effect on Procrastination and Learning of Mistakes in the Design of the Formative and Summative Assessments: A Case Study
Authors: Salas Vicente Fidel , Escuder Ángel Vicente , Pérez Puig Miguel Ángel , Segovia López Francisco
Published: August 2021

The design of the formative and summative assessment processes is of paramount importance to help students avoid procrastination and guide them towards the achievement of the learning objectives that are described in the course syllabus. If the assessment processes are poorly designed the outcome can be disappointing, including high grades but poor learning. In this paper, we describe the unexpected and undesirable effects that an on-demand formative assessment and the timetable of a summative assessment that left the most cognitively demanding part, problem-solving, to the end of the course, had on the behavior of students and on both grading and learning. As the formative assessment was voluntary, students procrastinated till the last minute. However, the real problem was that due to the design of the summative assessment, they focused their efforts mainly on the easiest parts of the summative assessment, passing the course with ease, but achieving a low learning level, as evidenced by the low scores of the problem-solving part of the summative assessment.
An Investigation of Zero-Voltage-Switching Condition in a High-Voltage-Gain Bidirectional DC–DC Converter
Authors: Phan Nhat-Truong , Nguyen Anh-Dung , Liu Yu-Chen , Chiu Huang-Jen
Published: August 2021

This paper analyzes the zero-voltage switching (ZVS) for all switches in a high-voltage-gain bidirectional DC–DC converter in triangular conduction mode (TCM) operation without any auxiliary components. From the ZVS condition, the reverse inductor current can be derived, and the required dead-time duration between the main switches and SR switches can be determined, which leads to a reduction in the duty cycle loss. Moreover, the relationship between switching frequency and load in TCM operation can be determined, which helps to reduce the peak-to-peak inductor current and reduce the conduction loss at light load. An experimental prototype of a high-voltage-gain bidirectional DC–DC converter is implemented with a maximum output power of 48 W. The result shows the peak efficiency of 97% and 96.8% in the forward and reverse directions, respectively.
A Multi-Parameter Comprehensive Optimized Algorithm for MPTCP Networks
Authors: Chen Min , Raza Muhammad Waleed , Zhou Xing , Dreibholz Thomas , Tan Yuyin
Published: August 2021

The transmission performance of a multi-path transmission control protocol (MPTCP) is affected by many parameters, such as path management, congestion control, buffer size, and subflow bandwidth. Most of the previous studies have focused almost exclusively on the improvement of a single parameter, without a holistic view. In this paper, a multi-parameter comprehensive optimized algorithm (MPCOA) is proposed to comprehensively optimize the above parameters. The MPCOA algorithm can find a smaller buffer size and select an appropriate congestion control and path management algorithm on the premise of ensuring better throughput. Experiments in three scenarios show that MPCOA can save buffer space and subflow resources, and achieve a high throughput. Meanwhile, a set of quantitative improvement results given by MPCOA is convenient for us to evaluate the quality of the MPTCP network and provide reference for our ongoing future work.
Prediction of Long-Term Elbow Flexion Force Intervals Based on the Informer Model and Electromyography
Authors: Lu Wei , Gao Lifu , Li Zebin , Wang Daqing , Cao Huibin
Published: August 2021

Accurate and long-term prediction of elbow flexion force can be used to recognize the intended movement and help wearable power-assisted robots to improve control performance. Our study aimed to find a proper relationship between electromyography and flexion force. However, the existing methods must incorporate biomechanical models to produce accurate and timely predictions of flexion force. Elbow flexion force is largely determined by the contractile properties of muscles, and the relationship between flexion force and the motor function of muscles has to be thoroughly analyzed. Therefore, based on the investigation on the contributions of different muscles to the flexion force, original electromyography signals were decomposed into non-linear and non-stationary parts. We selected the mean absolute value (MAV) of the non-linear part and the variance of the non-stationary part as inputs for an Informer prediction model that does not require detailed a priori knowledge of biomechanical models and is optimized for processing time sequences. Finally, a long-term flexion force probability interval is proposed. The proposed framework performs well in predicting long-term flexion force and outperforms other state-of-the-art models when compared to experimental results.
Planning of Electric Taxi Charging Stations Based on Travel Data Characteristics
Authors: Wang Yan , Gao Shan , Chu Hongyan , Wang Xuefei
Published: August 2021

In view of the practical application requirements for the rapid expansion of electric taxis (ETs) and the reasonable planning of charging stations, this paper presents a method for mining latent semantic correlation of large data by the trajectory of ETs and the planning of charging stations with optimal cost. Firstly, the vector space modeling method of ET trajectory data is studied, and the semantic similarity of the trajectory data matrix is evaluated. Secondly, the hidden characteristics of the mass trajectory data are extracted by matrix decomposition. Then, the latent semantic correlation characteristics of trajectory data are mined. Finally, the fast clustering of ETs is realized by the spectral clustering method. On this basis, with the objective of minimizing the annual construction and maintenance costs of charging stations, the optimal planning scheme of charging stations for ETs is given. In this paper, the spectrum clustering processing method of the potential semantic correlation of the big data of the driving track of ETs can be combined with the operation and maintenance costs of the charging station, and the convenience of charging for ET users is also considered. This provides decision support information for the reasonable planning of charging stations.
A G-Band High Output Power and Wide Bandwidth Sheet Beam Extended Interaction Klystron Design Operating at TM31 with 2π Mode
Authors: Li Shasha , Zhang Feng , Ruan Cunjun , Su Yiyang , Wang Pengpeng
Published: August 2021

In this paper, we propose a high-order mode sheet beam extended interaction klystron (EIK) operating at G-band. Through the study of electric field distribution, we choose TM31 2π mode as the operating mode. The eigenmode simulation shows that the resonant frequency of the modes adjacent to the operating mode is far away from the central frequency, so there is almost no mode competition in our high mode EIK. In addition, by studying the sensitivity of the related geometry parameters, we conclude that the height of the coupling cavity has a great influence on the effective characteristic impedance, and the width of the gap mainly affects the working frequency. Therefore, it is necessary to strictly control the fabrication tolerance within 2 μm. Finally, the RF circuit using six barbell multi-gap cavities is determined, with five gaps for the input cavity and idler cavities and seven gaps for the output cavity. To expand the bandwidth, the stagger tuning method is adopted. Under the conditions of a voltage of 16.5 kV, current of 0.5 A and input power of 0.2 W, the peak output power of 650 W and a 3-dB bandwidth of 700 MHz are achieved without any self-oscillation.
Ecosystem Services and Disservices of Vegetation in Recreational Urban Blue-Green Spaces—Some Recommendations for Greenery Shaping
Authors: Ćwik Agata , Wójcik Tomasz , Ziaja Maria , Wójcik Magdalena , Kluska Katarzyna , Kasprzyk Idalia
Published: August 2021

Urban water bodies are an important asset in terms of climate change. The accompanying vegetation is an integral part of the waterside space system and a source of ecosystem services and disservices. The composition of greenery in waterside spaces should therefore be preceded by detailed research. This research would be the basis for the development of recommendations for enhancement of the positive impact of vegetation on humans and minimisation of its negative effect. The aim of the study was to identify ecosystem services and disservices of vegetation in the four most important waterside recreation spaces in the city of Rzeszów, Poland, and to develop plant composition guidelines. A detailed inventory of vegetation and aerobiological monitoring of the presence of airborne allergenic pollen grains and fungal spores were carried out. Next, the ecosystem services and disservices of the vegetation were determined based on literature data and on our expert judgement. Additionally, a counting of the number of visitors to waterside areas was conducted. All these steps were used to develop recommendations for shaping the vegetation of study areas. The results of the investigations show that the boulevards along the artificial lake function completely differently than other investigated places as the area resembles an urban park, and the water is not the main attraction in this space. The vegetation of the boulevards and the nearby gravel-pit bathing area has mostly a spontaneous character and offers the widest range of ecosystem services and disservices. The management of the vegetation should focus on its health-enhancing values. The vegetation growing near the outdoor swimming pools has been designed by man. Nevertheless, it requires recomposing and is targeted specifically at the enhancement of the visual attractiveness. Additionally, there is a need for planting compact deciduous trees that will provide shade at the multi-media fountain.
Secure Internal Data Markets
Authors: Kieseberg Peter , Schrittwieser Sebastian , Weippl Edgar
Published: August 2021

The data market concept has gained a lot of momentum in recent years, fuelled by initiatives to set up such markets, e.g., on the European level. Still, the typical data market concept aims at providing a centralised platform with all of its positive and negative side effects. Internal data markets, also called local or on-premise data markets, on the other hand, are set up to allow data trade inside an institution (e.g., between divisions of a large company) or between members of a small, well-defined consortium, thus allowing the remuneration of providing data inside these structures. Still, while research on securing global data markets has garnered some attention throughout recent years, the internal data markets have been treated as being more or less similar in this respect. In this paper, we outline the major differences between global and internal data markets with respect to security and why further research is required. Furthermore, we provide a fundamental model for a secure internal data market that can be used as a starting point for the generation of concrete internal data market models. Finally, we provide an overview on the research questions we deem most pressing in order to make the internal data market concept work securely, thus allowing for more widespread adoption.
Efficient Wildland Fire Simulation via Nonlinear Model Order Reduction
Authors: Black Felix , Schulze Philipp , Unger Benjamin
Published: August 2021

We propose a new hyper-reduction method for a recently introduced nonlinear model reduction framework based on dynamically transformed basis functions and especially well-suited for transport-dominated systems. Furthermore, we discuss applying this new method to a wildland fire model whose dynamics feature traveling combustion waves and local ignition and is thus challenging for classical model reduction schemes based on linear subspaces. The new hyper-reduction framework allows us to construct parameter-dependent reduced-order models (ROMs) with efficient offline/online decomposition. The numerical experiments demonstrate that the ROMs obtained by the novel method outperform those obtained by a classical approach using the proper orthogonal decomposition and the discrete empirical interpolation method in terms of run time and accuracy.
Liquid Films Falling Down a Vertical Fiber: Modeling, Simulations and Experiments
Authors: Ruan Yadong , Nadim Ali , Duvvoori Lekha , Chugunova Marina
Published: August 2021

We provide a new framework for analyzing the flow of an axisymmetric liquid film flowing down a vertical fiber, applicable to fiber coating flows and those in similar geometries in heat exchangers, water treatment, and desalination processes. The problem considered is that of a viscous liquid film falling under the influence of gravity and surface tension on a solid cylindrical fiber. Our approach is different from existing ones in that we derive our mathematical model by using a control-volume approach to express the conservation of mass and axial momentum in simple and intuitively appealing forms, resulting in a pair of equations that are reminiscent of the Saint-Venant shallow-water equations. Two versions of the model are obtained, one assuming a plug-flow velocity profile with a linear drag force expression, and the other using the fully-developed laminar velocity profile for a locally uniform film to approximate the drag. These can, respectively, model high- and low-Reynolds number regimes of flow. Linear stability analyses and fully nonlinear numerical simulations are presented that show the emergence of traveling wave solutions representing chains of identical droplets falling down the fiber. Physical experiments with safflower oil on a fishing line are also undertaken and match the theoretical predictions from the laminar flow model well when machine learning methods are used to estimate the parameters.
Spatial-Temporal Footprints Assessment and Driving Mechanism of China Household Diet Based on CHNS
Authors: Long Yanling , Hu Runzhi , Yin Tuo , Wang Pengxiang , Liu Jiamin , Muhammad Tahir , Chen Xiuzhi , Li Yunkai
Published: August 2021

Food consumption is closely associated with resource consumption and environmental sustainability. An unreasonable dietary pattern would cause great pressure or damage to resources and the environment. It is particularly important to reduce the negative impact of household food consumption on resources and the environment while simultaneously ensuring people’s nutrient intake and health. This study applied the China Health and Nutrition Survey (CHNS) database to quantitatively study the spatial-temporal analysis of multiple footprints of household food consumption at multiple scales and explored the driving mechanism of the multiple footprints. The results showed that, except land footprint (LF), the other four types of footprints all decreased at varying degrees; the water footprint (WF), carbon footprint (CF), nitrogen footprint (NF) and energy footprint (EF) decreased by 18.24%, 17.82%, 12.03% and 20.36%, respectively, from 2000 to 2011; multiple footprints of food consumption of household in Guizhou was the highest among the 12 provinces involved in the study; this shows that resource consumption (water, energy and land resource) and environmental influences (CO2 emissions and nitrogen emissions) brought by food consumption of per household in Guizhou are much greater than in other provinces, which has a negative influence on sustainable development; by analyzing the driving factors of multiple footprints, it is shown that nutrient intake, household attributes, educational level and health conditions were significantly correlated to multiple footprints. Among them, nutrient intake has greater impact on the multiple footprints of Chinese household food consumption. By comparing multiple footprints of different dietary patterns, it was found that the current Chinese dietary pattern would cause excessive resource consumption, which would bring more pressure on resources and the environment. Adjusting household living habits would possibly reverse the unsustainable situation, such as reducing the consumption of animal-derived foods and adjusting the dietary pattern of households with a higher educational level and income status. Chinese Dietary Guidelines 2016 has better sustainability; the promotion of this dietary pattern across the country would help China to relieve the pressure on resources and environment from the consumer side, promoting the realization of sustainable development.
Influence of Selenium Biofortification on the Growth and Bioactive Metabolites of Ganoderma lucidum
Authors: Xu Mengmeng , Zhu Song , Wang Lingling , Wei Zhiyi , Zhao Liting , Shi Guiyang , Ding Zhongyang
Published: August 2021

Selenium biofortification of edible and medicinal mushrooms is an effective way to produce selenium-enriched food supplements. Ganoderma lucidum is the typical one with excellent biological activity. This study investigated G. lucidum growth and bioactive metabolites alterations during liquid culture with different concentrations of selenite. Low selenium levels did not affect growth and mycelia morphology, whereas high selenium levels negatively influenced growth, dramatically decreased biomass, caused nucleic acid and protein leakage, damaged cell walls and membranes, and resulted in indicators such as degraded cells, a red color, and an unpleasant odor. Through headspace-solid phase microextraction-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS) analysis, ten volatile Se compounds were identified in G. lucidum with 200 ppm selenite, which led to an odor change, whereas only three with 50 ppm selenite. SeMet was the major selenoamino acid in the 50 ppm selenite group by high-performance liquid chromatography-inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (HPLC-ICP-MS), but more MeSeCys was produced with 200 ppm selenite. Polysaccharide yields were promoted and inhibited with 50 and 200 ppm selenite, respectively. These results provide comprehensive insights into the effects of selenite on G. lucidum in liquid culture and are beneficial for functional selenium-enriched mushroom production and improving nutritive values.
Effectiveness of Integrated Technology Apps for Supporting Healthy Food Purchasing and Consumption: A Systematic Review
Authors: Lim Sook Yee , Lee Kai Wei , Seow Wen-Li , Mohamed Nurul Azmawati , Devaraj Navin Kumar , Amin-Nordin Syafinaz
Published: August 2021

A healthy diet is essential for good health and nutrition, though literature showed that there are various factors affecting the intention to purchase and consume healthy food. Technology integration is known to be useful in various aspects, but findings from studies on the efficacy of technology integration to improve healthy food consumption and purchase have largely been inconsistent. Therefore, we aimed to examine the efficacy of interventions that use technology apps to improve healthy food purchasing and consumption in adults. Relevant studies were identified through PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, SportDiscuss and ACM Digital Library. Twenty studies were included in the systematic review. The majority of studies (n = 18) used a smartphone in the intervention, and only two studies used a personal digital assistant. The results showed that technology integration-based intervention favoured healthy changes in household food purchases, and increased consumption of healthy food and healthy eating outcomes – albeit to different extents. Overall, technology apps are convenient and user-friendly tools to encourage a change in healthy food purchase and consumption among people.
Could Japonica Rice Be an Alternative Variety for Increased Global Food Security and Climate Change Mitigation?
Authors: Uyeh Daniel Dooyum , Asem-Hiablie Senorpe , Park Tusan , Kim Kyungmin , Mikhaylov Alexey , Woo Seungmin , Ha Yushin
Published: August 2021

The growing importance of rice globally over the past three decades is evident in its strategic place in many countries’ food security planning policies. Still, its cultivation emits substantial greenhouse gases (GHGs). The Indica and Japonica sub-species of Oryza sativa L. are mainly grown, with Indica holding the largest market share. The awareness, economics, and acceptability of Japonica rice in a food-insecure Indica rice-consuming population were surveyed. The impact of parboiling on Japonica rice was studied and the factors which most impacted stickiness were investigated through sensory and statistical analyses. A comparison of the growing climate and greenhouse gas emissions of Japonica and Indica rice was carried out by reviewing previous studies. Survey results indicated that non-adhesiveness and pleasant aroma were the most preferred properties. Parboiling treatment altered Japonica rice’s physical and chemical properties, introducing gelatinization of starch and reducing adhesiveness while retaining micronutrient concentrations. Regions with high food insecurity and high consumption of Indica rice were found to have suitable climatic conditions for growing Japonica rice. Adopting the higher-yielding, nutritious Japonica rice whose cultivation emits less GHG in these regions could help strengthen food security while reducing GHGs in global rice cultivation.
Fate of Salmonella Typhimurium and Listeria monocytogenes on Whole Papaya during Storage and Antimicrobial Efficiency of Aqueous Chlorine Dioxide Generated with HCl, Malic Acid or Lactic Acid on Whole Papaya
Authors: Dong Lianger , Li Yong
Published: August 2021

Papaya-associated foodborne illness outbreaks have been frequently reported worldwide. The goal of this study was to evaluate the behavior of Salmonella Typhimurium and Listeria monocytogenes on whole papaya during storage and sanitizing process. Fresh green papayas were inoculated with approximately 7 log CFU of S. Typhimurium and L. monocytogenes and stored at 21 or 7 °C for 14 days. Bacteria counts were determined on day 0, 1, 7, 10 and 14. Fresh green papayas inoculated with approximately 8 log CFU of the bacteria were treated for 5 min with 2.5, 5 and 10 ppm aqueous chlorine dioxide (ClO2). The ClO2 solutions were generated by mixing sodium chlorite with an acid, which was HCl, lactic acid or malic acid. The detection limit of the enumeration method was 2.40 log CFU per papaya. At the end of storage period, S. Typhimurium and L. monocytogenes grew by 1.88 and 1.24 log CFU on papayas at 21 °C, respectively. Both bacteria maintained their initial population at inoculation on papayas stored at 7 °C. Higher concentrations of ClO2 reduced more bacteria on papaya. 10 ppm ClO2, regardless the acid used to generate the solutions, inactivated S. Typhimurium to undetectable level on papaya. 10 ppm ClO2 generated with HCl, lactic acid and malic acid reduced L. monocytogenes by 4.40, 6.54 and 8.04 log CFU on papaya, respectively. Overall, ClO2 generated with malic acid showed significantly higher bacterial reduction than ClO2 generated with HCl or lactic acid. These results indicate there is a risk of survival and growth for S. Typhimurium and L. monocytogenes on papaya at commercial storage conditions. Aqueous ClO2 generated with malic acid shows effectiveness in inactivating the pathogenic bacteria on papaya.
A Geotechnical Investigation of 2017 Chattogram Landslides
Authors: Islam Md. Azijul , Islam Mohammad Shariful , Jeet Abhijeet Acharjee
Published: August 2021

In this study, an attempt is made to uncover and discuss the geo-environmental characteristics, triggers, and consequences of a landslide disaster in the Chattogram Hill Tracts (CHT) region of Bangladesh. The hilly areas are composed of Tertiary and Quaternary sediments which have been folded, faulted, uplifted and, then deeply dissected by rivers and other water bodies. This paper presents a case study on the geotechnical investigation and numerical modeling of the landslides of 13 June 2017. A field visit and soil sample collection, followed by laboratory testing were conducted at the landslide-afflicted areas. The study revealed that the soil type was an important factor behind landslides, while high precipitation, hill cutting, deforestation, and unplanned human settlements act as contributing factors behind the landslide disaster. Extensive analysis of the geotechnical facts has been carried out, and an attempt is made to pinpoint the cause. A finite element modeling was conducted using PLAXIS 2D to investigate the failure mechanism. The numerical modeling results have suggested that most of the hill slopes were susceptible to failure after heavy rainfall. A conclusion is drawn that the landslides were triggered by incessant rainfall infiltrating into the subsoil, which led to a notable increase in its degree of saturation and a simultaneous reduction in suction and shear strength of the soil.
Self-Esteem, Anxiety, and Depression in Older People in Nursing Homes
Authors: Šare Sonja , Ljubičić Marija , Gusar Ivana , Čanović Samir , Konjevoda Suzana
Published: August 2021

Background: Social environment and type of care may influence mental health in late life. The aim of this study was to assess the associations between depression, anxiety, and self-esteem in older people. Methods: The study evaluated mental health in people older than 65 years of age in Zadar County, Croatia. The participants were interviewed using the Patient Health Questionnaire, the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale, and the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale. Multiple linear regressions were used to assess the correlations between depression, anxiety, and self-esteem. Results: Compared with elderly people living in their own homes, elderly people in nursing homes reported lower self-esteem, higher depression, and higher anxiety. The level of self-esteem decreased with increased levels of depression. Anxiety was significantly associated with depression, while depression strongly increased with an increase in anxiety. Older age was associated with depression, while widowhood was a negative predictor of self-esteem. Institutionalization was borderline significantly associated with anxiety, while gender was associated with anxiety. Conclusions: The study found associations between self-esteem, anxiety, and depression in the elderly. The strategy of humanization in nursing care for older people should be applied equally in nursing homes and in community-dwelling states. Public health programs aimed at maintaining the mental health of older people are needed.
Conversational System as Assistant Tool in Reminiscence Therapy for People with Early-Stage of Alzheimer’s
Authors: Morales-de-Jesús Victor , Gómez-Adorno Helena , Somodevilla-García María , Vilariño Darnes
Published: August 2021

Reminiscence therapy is a non-pharmacological intervention that helps mitigate unstable psychological and emotional states in patients with Alzheimer’s disease, where past experiences are evoked through conversations between the patients and their caregivers, stimulating autobiographical episodic memory. It is highly recommended that people with Alzheimer regularly receive this type of therapy. In this paper, we describe the development of a conversational system that can be used as a tool to provide reminiscence therapy to people with Alzheimer’s disease. The system has the ability to personalize the therapy according to the patients information related to their preferences, life history and lifestyle. An evaluation conducted with eleven people related to patient care (caregiver = 9, geriatric doctor = 1, care center assistant = 1) shows that the system is capable of carrying out a reminiscence therapy according to the patient information in a successful manner.
Globalization, Cultural Heritage Management and the Sustainable Development Goals in Sub-Saharan Africa: The Case of Nigeria
Authors: Folorunso Caleb A.
Published: August 2021

This paper addresses the impacts of globalization on cultural heritage conservation in sub-Saharan Africa. The homogenization and commodification of Indigenous cultures as a result of globalization and it’s impacts on the devaluation of heritage sites and cultural properties is discussed within a Nigerian context. Additionally, the ongoing global demand for African art objects continues to fuel the looting and destruction of archaeological and historical sites, negatively impacting the well-being of local communities and their relationships to their cultural heritage. Global organizations and institutions such as UNESCO, the World Bank, and other institutions have been important stakeholders in the protection of cultural heritage worldwide. This paper assesses the efficacy of the policies and interventions implemented by these organizations and institutions within Africa and makes suggestions on how to advance the protection of African cultural heritage within the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Furthermore, cultural heritage conservation is explored as a core element of community well-being and a tool with which African nations may achieve sustainable economic development.
Horticultural Crop Response to Different Environmental and Nutritional Stress
Authors: Marino Stefano
Published: August 2021

Environmental conditions and nutritional stress may greatly affect crop performance. Abiotic stresses such as temperature (cold, heat), water (drought, flooding), irradiance, salinity, nutrients, and heavy metals can strongly affect plant growth dynamics and the yield and quality of horticultural products. Such effects have become of greater importance during the course of global climate change. Different strategies and techniques can be used to detect, investigate, and mitigate the effects of environmental and nutritional stress. Horticultural crop management is moving towards digitized, precision management through wireless remote-control solutions, but data analysis, although a traditional approach, remains the basis of stress detection and crop management. This Special Issue summarizes the recent progress in agronomic management strategies to detect and reduce environmental and nutritional stress effects on the yield and quality of horticultural crops.
Governance of Artificial Intelligence in Water and Wastewater Management: The Case Study of Japan
Authors: Takeda Tomoko , Kato Junko , Matsumura Takashi , Murakami Takeshi , Abeynayaka Amila
Published: August 2021

The integration of artificial intelligence into various aspects of daily life is developing at a rapid pace in Japan. Discussions to govern applications of artificial intelligence to the field of social infrastructure are also critical and need to match the rapid pace of development. However, the legal implications and risks of applying artificial intelligence to the management of lifelines such as drinking water supply and wastewater treatment have not yet been fully explored. This paper reviews the existing legislations and ongoing discussions on governance regarding applications of artificial intelligence to water and wastewater management. Based on the review, we discuss the ability of legislative frameworks in Japan to respond to the applications of artificial intelligence, as well as identifying potential gaps and challenges thereof, including access to accurate data, demarcation of rights and responsibilities, risk hedging and risk management, monitoring and evaluation, and handling of intellectual property rights. This paper concludes with key recommendations to national and local governments to support the application of artificial intelligence in the field of water and wastewater.
Occurrence of Multidrug-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus among Humans, Rodents, Chickens, and Household Soils in Karatu, Northern Tanzania
Authors: Sonola Valery Silvery , Misinzo Gerald , Matee Mecky Isaac
Published: August 2021

We conducted this study to investigate the isolation frequency and phenotypic antibiotic resistance pattern of Staphylococcus aureus isolated from rodents, chickens, humans, and household soils. Specimens were plated onto mannitol salt agar (Oxoid, Basingstoke, UK) and incubated aerobically at 37 °C for 24 h. Presumptive colonies of S. aureus were subjected to Gram staining, as well as catalase, deoxyribonuclease (DNAse), and coagulase tests for identification. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed by using the Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion method on Mueller–Hinton agar (Oxoid, Basingstoke, UK). The antibiotics tested were tetracycline (30 μg), erythromycin (15 μg), gentamicin (10 μg), ciprofloxacin (5 μg), clindamycin (2 μg), and amoxicillin-clavulanate (20 μg/10 μg). The S. aureus strain American Type Culture Collection (ATCC) 25,923 was used as the standard organism. We found that 483 out of 956 (50.2%) samples were positive for S. aureus. The isolation frequencies varied significantly between samples sources, being 52.1%, 66.5%, 74.3%, and 24.5%, respectively, in chickens, humans, rodents, and soil samples (p < 0.001). S. aureus isolates had high resistance against clindamycin (51.0%), erythromycin (50.9%), and tetracycline (62.5%). The overall prevalence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) S. aureus isolates was 30.2%, with 8.7% resistant to at least four different classes of antibiotics.