bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Practical and Provably Secure Distributed Aggregation: Verifiable Additive Homomorphic Secret Sharing
Authors: Tsaloli Georgia , Banegas Gustavo , Mitrokotsa Aikaterini
Published: September 2020

Often clients (e.g., sensors, organizations) need to outsource joint computations that are based on some joint inputs to external untrusted servers. These computations often rely on the aggregation of data collected from multiple clients, while the clients want to guarantee that the results are correct and, thus, an output that can be publicly verified is required. However, important security and privacy challenges are raised, since clients may hold sensitive information. In this paper, we propose an approach, called verifiable additive homomorphic secret sharing (VAHSS), to achieve practical and provably secure aggregation of data, while allowing for the clients to protect their secret data and providing public verifiability i.e., everyone should be able to verify the correctness of the computed result. We propose three VAHSS constructions by combining an additive homomorphic secret sharing (HSS) scheme, for computing the sum of the clients’ secret inputs, and three different methods for achieving public verifiability, namely: (i) homomorphic collision-resistant hash functions; (ii) linear homomorphic signatures; as well as (iii) a threshold RSA signature scheme. In all three constructions, we provide a detailed correctness, security, and verifiability analysis and detailed experimental evaluations. Our results demonstrate the efficiency of our proposed constructions, especially from the client side.
A New Species of Andean Gymnophthalmid Lizard (Squamata: Gymnophthalmidae) from the Peruvian Andes, and Resolution of Some Taxonomic Problems
Authors: Mamani Luis , Chaparro Juan C. , Correa Claudio , Alarcón Consuelo , Salas Cinthya Y. , Catenazzi Alessandro
Published: September 2020

The family Gymnophthalmidae is one of the most speciose lineages of lizards in the Neotropical region. Despite recent phylogenetic studies, the species diversity of this family is unknown and thus, its phylogenetic relationships remain unclear and its taxonomy unstable. We analyzed four mitochondrial (12S, 16S, Cytb, ND4) and one nuclear (c-mos) DNA sequences of Pholidobolus anomalus, Cercosaura manicata boliviana and Cercosaura sp., using the maximum likelihood method to give insights into the phylogenetic relationships of these taxa within Cercosaurinae. Our results suggest that Pholidolus anomalus is nested within the clade of Cercosaura spp., that material we collected near Oxapampa belongs to a new species of Cercosaura, and that lizards identified as Cercosaura manicata boliviana belong to a separate lineage, possibly a new genus. We assign Pholidobolus anomalus to Cercosaura, redescribe the species, and designate a neotype to replace the lost holotype. In addition, we describe the new species of Cercosaura, and comment about the taxonomic status of “Cercosaura manicata boliviana”incertae sedis.
Development of an Easy-to-Use Prediction Equation for Body Fat Percentage Based on BMI in Overweight and Obese Lebanese Adults
Authors: Itani Leila , Tannir Hana , El Masri Dana , Kreidieh Dima , El Ghoch Marwan
Published: September 2020

An accurate estimation of body fat percentage (BF%) in patients who are overweight or obese is of clinical importance. In this study, we aimed to develop an easy-to-use BF% predictive equation based on body mass index (BMI) suitable for individuals in this population. A simplified prediction equation was developed and evaluated for validity using anthropometric measurements from 375 adults of both genders who were overweight or obese. Measurements were taken in the outpatient clinic of the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics at Beirut Arab University (Lebanon). A total of 238 participants were used for model building (training sample) and another 137 participants were used for evaluating validity (validation sample). The final predicted model included BMI and sex, with non-significant prediction bias in BF% of −0.017 ± 3.86% (p = 0.946, Cohen’s d = 0.004). Moreover, a Pearson’s correlation between measured and predicted BF% was strongly significant (r = 0.84, p < 0.05). We are presenting a model that accurately predicted BF% in 61% of the validation sample with an absolute percent error less than 10% and non-significant prediction bias (−0.028 ± 4.67%). We suggest the following equations: BF% females = 0.624 × BMI + 21.835 and BF% males = 1.050 × BMI − 4.001 for accurate BF% estimation in patients who are overweight or obese in a clinical setting in Lebanon.
The Quality of Autism Spectrum Disorder Diagnosis: Families’ Views
Authors: Roig-Vila Rosabel , Urrea-Solano Mayra , Gavilán-Martín Diego
Published: September 2020

The birth of a child diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) tends to strongly disrupt family dynamics and functioning. However, the severity of the impact may be softened if the family feels supported during the diagnostic process. The Valencia region (Spain)—where this study is located—recently put in place a protocol to improve ASD detection and support for families. The aim of this study was to identify these families’ views on the quality of the process experienced and the operation of the new system. The participants were 34 families with a child who had been diagnosed with this condition. A mixed methodological approach was adopted. A descriptive analysis and an interpretative-phenomenological study were performed using SPSS v. 25 and AQUAD 7, respectively. The results showed that while families seemed to be relatively satisfied, there is still room for improvement in some important areas such as guidance and emotional support, the training of the professionals involved, and waiting time. It was concluded that significant improvements must be implemented in the new diagnostic model to successfully meet the demands of families in a context characterized by a paucity of studies.
Revisiting the Women Workplace Culture Scale: Validation and Psychometric Properties of a Three-Factor Structure in an Iranian Study Sample
Authors: Toscano Ferdinando , Giusino Davide , Rahimi Pordanjani Tayebe
Published: September 2020

This paper describes the validation process of the Persian version of the Women Workplace Culture Scale and provides information about the perception of this culture in an Iranian working environment. A 30-item Persian version of the Women Workplace Culture (WWC) Questionnaire was administered to women working in public departments of the city of Bojnord, Iran (N = 200). As a result of a theory- and data-driven bottom-up empirical approach, a reduced 10-item three-dimensional scale was achieved entailing (I) perceived societal barriers for career development, (II) perceived organizational barriers, and (III) sexual harassment. This parsimonious solution showed satisfactory values of reliability, factorial validity and convergent-discriminant validity analysis based on correlations with the unidimensional 10-item Perceived Stress Scale and the 12-item Career Success Questionnaire. The scale can be used to measure women workplace culture in Iran and other Persian-speaking, Islamic-Arabic countries. It can also constitute a starting point for organizational diagnosis in projects aimed to enhance working women’s occupational health and societal participation.
Pore-Scale Lattice Boltzmann Simulation of Gas Diffusion–Adsorption Kinetics Considering Adsorption-Induced Diffusivity Change
Authors: Peng Zhigao , Liu Shenggui , Li Yingjun , Deng Zongwei , Feng Haoxiong
Published: September 2020

The diffusion–adsorption behavior of methane in coal is an important factor that both affecting the decay rate of gas production and the total gas production capacity. In this paper, we established a pore-scale Lattice Boltzmann (LB) model coupled with fluid flow, gas diffusion, and gas adsorption–desorption in the bi-dispersed porous media of coalbed methane. The Knudsen diffusion and dynamic adsorption–desorption of gas in clusters of coal particles were considered. Firstly, the model was verified by two classical cases. Then, three dimensionless numbers, Re, Pe, and Da, were adopted to discuss the impact of fluid velocity, gas diffusivity, and adsorption/desorption rate on the gas flow–diffusion–adsorption process. The effect of the gas adsorption layer in micropores on the diffusion–adsorption–desorption process was considered, and a Langmuir isotherm adsorption theory-based method was developed to obtain the dynamic diffusion coefficient, which can capture the intermediate process during adsorption/desorption reaches equilibrium. The pore-scale bi-disperse porous media of coal matrix was generated based on the RCP algorithm, and the characteristics of gas diffusion and adsorption in the coal matrix with different Pe, Da, and pore size distribution were discussed. The conclusions were as follows: (1) the influence of fluid velocity on the diffusion–adsorption process of coalbed methane at the pore-scale is very small and can be ignored; the magnitude of the gas diffusivity in macropores affects the spread range of the global gas diffusion and the process of adsorption and determines the position where adsorption takes place preferentially. (2) A larger Fickian diffusion coefficient or greater adsorption constant can effectively enhance the adsorption rate, and the trend of gas concentration- adsorption is closer to the Langmuir isotherm adsorption curve. (3) The gas diffusion–adsorption–desorption process is affected by the adsorption properties of coal: the greater the pL or Vm, the slower the global gas diffusivity decay. (4) The effect of the gas molecular adsorption layer has a great impact on the kinetic process of gas diffusion–adsorption–desorption. Coal is usually tight and has low permeability, so it is difficult to ensure that the gas diffusion and adsorption are sufficient, the direct use of a static isotherm adsorption equation may be incorrect.
Optimal Placement of IoT-Based Fault Indicator to Shorten Outage Time in Integrated Cyber-Physical Medium-Voltage Distribution Network
Authors: Li Jing , Tang Jinrui , Wang Xinze , Xiong Binyu , Zhan Shenjun , Zhao Zilong , Hou Hui , Qi Wanying , Li Zhenhai
Published: September 2020

Traditional fault indicators based on 3G and 4G cannot send out fault-generated information if the distribution lines are located in the system across remote mountainous or forest areas. Hence, power distribution systems in rural areas only rely on patrol to find faults currently, which wastes time and lacks efficiency. With the development of the Internet of things (IoT) technology, some studies have suggested combining the long-range (LoRa) and the narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT) technologies to increase the data transmission distance and reduce the self-built communication system operating cost. In this paper, we propose an optimal configuration scheme for novel intelligent IoT-based fault indicators. The proposed fault indicator combines LoRa and NB-IoT communication technologies with a long communication distance to achieve minimum power consumption and high-efficiency maintenance. Under this given cyber network and physical power distribution network, the whole fault location process depends on the fault indicator placement and the deployment of the communication network. The overall framework and the working principle of the fault indicators based on LoRa and NB-IoT are first illustrated to establish the optimization placement model of the proposed novel IoT-based fault indicator. Secondly, an optimization placement method has been proposed to obtain the optimal number of the acquisition and collection units of the fault indicators, as well as their locations. In the proposed method, the attenuation of the communication network and the power-supply reliability have been specially considered in the fault location process under the investment restrictions of the fault indicators. The effectiveness of the proposed method has been validated by the analysis results in an IEEE Roy Billinton Test System (IEEE-RBTS) typical system.
Power Market Formation for Clean Energy Production as the Prerequisite for the Country’s Energy Security
Authors: Tvaronavičienė Manuela , Lisin Evgeny , Kindra Vladimir
Published: September 2020

The paper analyzes the main issues of power market development for clean energy production within the broader framework of ensuring the country’s energy security. In addition, special attention is paid to the technologies aimed at reducing emissions of toxic substances and greenhouse gases by the fossil-fired power plants. Even though the future electricity markets would most likely depend on the high shares of renewable energy sources (RES) in the electricity system, energy efficiency such as the one based on the near-zero emission technologies might also play a crucial role in the transition to the carbon-free energy future. In particular, there are the oxy-fuel combustion technologies that might help to reduce the proportion of unburned fuel and increase the efficiency of the power plant while reducing the emissions of flue gases. Our paper focuses on the role and the place of the near-zero emission technologies in the production of clean energy. We applied economic and mathematical models for assessing the prospects for applying oxy-fuel combustion technology in thermal power plants, taking into account the system of emission quotas and changes in the fuel cost. Our results demonstrate that at the current fuel prices, it is advisable to use economical combined cycle gas turbines (CCGT). At the same time, when quotas for greenhouse gas emissions are introduced and fuel costs increase by 1.3 times, it becomes economically feasible to use the oxy-fuel combustion technology which possesses significant economic advantages over CCGT with respect to the capture and storage of greenhouse gases.
Effect of Spark Ignition Timing and Water Injection Temperature on the Knock Combustion of a GDI Engine
Authors: Li Aqian , Zheng Zhaolei
Published: September 2020

A turbocharged downsizing spark ignition (SI) engine cooperating with an in-cylinder direct injection technology is one of the most effective ways to improve the power and economy of gasoline engines. However, engine knock has limited the application and development of the downsizing of gasoline engines. Water injection technology can effectively suppress the knock. In this study, a method of numerical simulation was used to explore the effect of the water injection temperature on the combustion and suppression of the knock. First of all, the knock of the gasoline engine was induced by advancing the spark timing. Then, when the other conditions were the same, different water injection temperatures were set. The results show that lowering the water injection temperature reduced the knock intensity in the cylinder, but increasing the water injection temperature made the water distribution more uniform, and the peak values of each monitoring point were more consistent. The circulating work power increased with the increase of the water injection temperature. For emissions, as the temperature of the water injection increased, the emissions of soot and unburned hydrocarbons (UHCs) decreased, and NOx slightly increased.
State Estimation for Hybrid VSC Based HVDC/AC Transmission Networks
Authors: Ayiad Motaz , Leite Helder , Martins Hugo
Published: September 2020

As the integration of High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) systems on modern power networks continues to expand, challenges have appeared in different fields of the network architecture. In the Supervisory, Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) field, software and toolboxes are expected to be modified to meet the new network characteristics. Therefore, this paper presents a unified Weighted Least Squares (WLS) state estimation algorithm suitable for hybrid HVDC/AC transmission systems, based on Voltage Source Converter (VSC). The mathematical formulas of the unified approach are derived for modelling the AC, DC and converter coupling components. The method couples the AC and DC sides of the converter through power and voltage constraints and measurement functions. Two hybrid power system test cases have been studied to validate this work, a 4-AC/4-DC/4-AC network and Cigre B4 DC test case network. Furthermore, comparison between the fully decentralized state estimation and the unified method is provided, which indicated an accuracy improvement and error reduction.
An Online Energy-Saving Driving Strategy for Metro Train Operation Based on the Model Predictive Control of Switched-Mode Dynamical Systems
Authors: Shang Fei , Zhan Jingyuan , Chen Yangzhou
Published: September 2020

With the rapid development of urban rail transit systems and the consequent sharp increase of energy consumption, the energy-saving train operation problem has been attracting much attention. Extensive studies have been devoted to optimal control of a single metro train in an inter-station run to minimize the energy consumption. However, most of the existing work focuses on offline optimization of the energy-saving driving strategy, which still needs to be tracked in real train operation. In order to attain better performance in the presence of disturbances, this paper studies the online optimization problem of the energy-saving driving strategy for a single metro train, by employing the model predictive control (MPC) approach. Firstly, a switched-mode dynamical system model is introduced to describe the dynamics of a metro train. Based on this model, an MPC-based online optimization problem is formulated for obtaining the optimal mode switching times with minimal energy consumption for a single train in an inter-station run. Then we propose an algorithm to solve the constrained optimization problem at each time step by utilizing the exterior point penalty function method. The proposed online optimal train control algorithm which determines the mode switching times can not only improve the computational efficiency but also enhances the robustness to disturbances in real scenarios. Finally, the effectiveness and advantages of this online optimal train control algorithm are illustrated through case studies of a single train in an inter-station run.
Parameter Calibration for a TRNSYS BIPV Model Using In Situ Test Data
Authors: Ha Sang-Woo , Park Seung-Hoon , Eom Jae-Yong , Oh Min-Suk , Cho Ga-Young , Kim Eui-Jong
Published: September 2020

Installing renewable energy systems for zero-energy buildings has become increasingly common; building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems, which integrate PV modules into the building envelope, are being widely selected as renewable systems. In particular, owing to the rapid growth of information and communication technology, the requirement for appropriate operation and control of energy systems has become an important issue. To meet these requirements, a computational model is essential; however, some unmeasurable parameters can result in inaccurate results. This work proposes a calibration method for unknown parameters of a well-known BIPV model based on in situ test data measured over eight days; this parameter calibration was conducted via an optimization algorithm. The unknown parameters were set such that the results obtained from the BIPV simulation model are similar to the in situ measurement data. Results of the calibrated model indicated a root mean square error (RMSE) of 3.39 °C and 0.26 kW in the BIPV cell temperature and total power production, respectively, whereas the noncalibrated model, which used typical default values for unknown parameters, showed an RMSE of 6.92 °C and 0.44 kW for the same outputs. This calibration performance was quantified using measuring data from the first four days; the error increased slightly when data from the remaining four days were compared for the model tests.
Gini and Entropy-Based Spread Indexes for Primary Energy Consumption Efficiency and CO2 Emission
Authors: Takada Hellinton H. , Ribeiro Celma O. , Costa Oswaldo L. V. , Stern Julio M.
Published: September 2020

Primary energy consumption is one of the key drivers of global CO2 emissions that, in turn, heavily depends on the efficiency of involved technologies. Either improvement in technology efficiency or the expansion of non-fossil fuel consumption requires large investments. The planning and financing of such investments by global policy makers or global energy firms require, in turn, reliable measures of associated global spread and their evolution in time, at least from the point of view of the principles for responsible investment (PRI). In this paper, our main contribution is the introduction of index measures for accessing global spread (that is, measures of inequality or inhomogeneity in the statistical distribution of a related quantity of interest) of technology efficiency and CO2 emission in primary energy consumption. These indexes are based on the Gini index, as used in economical sciences, and generalized entropy measures. Regarding primary energy sources, we consider petroleum, coal, natural gas, and non-fossil fuels. Between our findings, we attest some stable relations in the evolution of global spreads of technology efficiency and CO2 emission and a positive relation between changes in global spread of technology efficiency and use of non-fossil fuel.
A Discussion of Possible Approaches to the Integration of Thermochemical Storage Systems in Concentrating Solar Power Plants
Authors: Lanchi Michela , Turchetti Luca , Sau Salvatore , Liberatore Raffaele , Cerbelli Stefano , Murmura Maria Anna , Annesini Maria Cristina
Published: September 2020

One of the most interesting perspectives for the development of concentrated solar power (CSP) is the storage of solar energy on a seasonal basis, intending to exploit the summer solar radiation in excess and use it in the winter months, thus stabilizing the yearly production and increasing the capacity factor of the plant. By using materials subject to reversible chemical reactions, and thus storing the thermal energy in the form of chemical energy, thermochemical storage systems can potentially serve to this purpose. The present work focuses on the identification of possible integration solutions between CSP plants and thermochemical systems for long-term energy storage, particularly for high-temperature systems such as central receiver plants. The analysis is restricted to storage systems potentially compatible with temperatures ranging from 700 to 1000 °C and using gases as heat transfer fluids. On the basis of the solar plant specifications, suitable reactive systems are identified and the process interfaces for the integration of solar plant/storage system/power block are discussed. The main operating conditions of the storage unit are defined for each considered case through process simulation.
Modeling Wind-Turbine Power Curves: Effects of Environmental Temperature on Wind Energy Generation
Authors: Rodríguez-López Miguel Á. , Cerdá Emilio , Rio Pablo del
Published: September 2020

Global warming represents a serious challenge, which requires the adoption of renewable energy technologies worldwide. However, it can negatively affect the availability of renewable energy resources, such as wind, which are needed for electricity generation. In this context, there is an increasing need for more accurate evaluations of wind turbine power curves. A novel methodology to model the power curves of wind turbines, which combines the use of artificial neural networks (ANN) and Fuzzy logic rules, is proposed in this paper. This methodology assesses the role of environmental temperature in the power curve and the impact of temperature increases on wind energy production. The application of this methodology is illustrated with the simulation of the impact of global warming on the electricity generation of a wind farm. Due to the non-linear relationship between the power output of a turbine and its primary and derived parameters, it is shown that ANN combined with an expert system formed by a Fuzzy logic module fit power curve modeling processes well. The application of the methodology shows that an increase in temperatures would trigger a small reduction in the performance of wind turbines.
Modified Activated Graphene-Based Carbon Electrodes from Rice Husk for Supercapacitor Applications
Authors: Yeleuov Mukhtar , Seidl Christopher , Temirgaliyeva Tolganay , Taurbekov Azamat , Prikhodko Nicholay , Lesbayev Bakytzhan , Sultanov Fail , Daulbayev Chingis , Kumekov Serik
Published: September 2020

The renewable biomass material obtained from rice husk, a low-cost agricultural waste, was used as a precursor to synthesize a highly porous graphene-based carbon as electrode material for supercapacitors. Activated graphene-based carbon (AGC) was obtained by a two-step chemical procedure and exhibited a very high specific surface area (SSA) of 3292 m2 g−1. The surface morphology of the synthesized materials was studied using scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM, TEM). Furthermore, the AGC was modified with nickel hydroxide Ni(OH)2 through a simple chemical precipitation method. It was found that the most significant increase in capacitance could be reached with Ni(OH)2 loadings of around 9 wt.%. The measured specific capacitance of the pure AGC supercapacitor electrodes was 236 F g−1, whereas electrodes from the material modified with 9 wt.% Ni(OH)2 showed a specific capacitance of up to 300 F g−1 at a current density of 50 mA g−1. The increase in specific capacitance achieved due to chemical modification was, therefore 27%.
A 13-Year Approach to Understand the Effect of Prescribed Fires and Livestock Grazing on Soil Chemical Properties in Tivissa, NE Iberian Peninsula
Authors: Alcañiz Meritxell , Úbeda Xavier , Cerdà Artemi
Published: September 2020

The high density of fuel accumulated in the Mediterranean ecosystems due to land abandonment results in high severity fires. Traditional fire practices and livestock grazing have played an important role in shaping the structure and composition of Mediterranean landscapes, and both can be efficient tools to manage them now that land abandonment is widespread. Attempts at controlling forest fires are essential for landscape management practices that, in their turn, seek to maintain a specific species composition. Against this backdrop, this study aims to determine the short- and long-term effects of the combined management practices of prescribed fires and goat grazing on the chemical properties of soils in Tivissa, Tarragona (NE Iberian Peninsula). Forty-two samples were collected in a 4 × 18 m plot before the prescribed fire of 2002 (1), immediately after the 2002 prescribed fire (PF) (2), one year after the 2002 PF (3), three years after the 2002 PF (4), and thirteen years after the 2002 PF (5). Soil samples were taken at each sampling point from the top layer (0–5 cm), sieved to obtain a <2 mm fraction, and soil pH, EC, Total C, total N, available P, K+, Ca2+, and Mg2+ were determined. The results indicate that the short-term effects of fire are more relevant than those attributable to the livestock over the long term due to the low grazing intensity of less than one goat per ha. The long-term effects of prescribed fires were not visible in the research, suggesting that they recovered after burning with all their functions intact and with enhanced levels of natural fertility. Combined land management practices of prescribed fire and livestock grazing did not affect soil chemical properties. The applied management enhanced soil fertility and boosted the ecosystem’s resilience.
Effect of Organic Fertilizers on Selected Health Beneficial Bioactive Compounds and Aroma Profile of Red Topepo Sweet Pepper
Authors: Muscolo Adele , Papalia Teresa , Mallamaci Carmelo , Carabetta Sonia , Di Sanzo Rosa , Russo Mariateresa
Published: September 2020

Phytochemicals and antioxidant properties of red sweet pepper cv Topepo grown in soil amended with different organic fertilizers were compared with that grown in unamended soil. Organic fertilizers are an environmentally friendly alternative to recovery infertile soils that resulted from the intensified agricultural practices in red Topepo production. The aim was to discriminate the effects of organic fertilizers one from each other on the quality of red Topepo to find out the better sustainable fertilization practice for its cultivation. Results showed that compost from vegetable residues (CV) enhanced the synthesis of total phenols, flavonoids, ascorbic acid, vitamin E, carotenoids, anthocyanins, as well as carbohydrates, antioxidant activities, and aroma profiling, compared to horse manure (HD), compost from olive pomace (CO), and control (CTR). The results indicated a specificity between the quality of red Topepo and compost composition, highlighting that vegetable residues increased the synthesis of secondary metabolites, enhancing sustainably, the nutraceutical, sensorial, and economic value of red Topepo. The fertilizer composition resulted largely responsible for the synthesis of bioactive compounds, flavor, and aroma of this fruit.
Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria in Hydroponic Lettuce in Retail: A Comparative Survey
Authors: Lam Kit-Ling , Kong Wai-Po , Ling Po-Yi , Lau Tsz-Ho , Ho Kin-Hang , Lee Fred Wang-Fat , Chan Ping-Lung
Published: September 2020

Hydroponic produce is gaining popularity due to its suitability for urban agriculture. The general public also considers that hydroponic produce is free from microbiological contamination. In this study, we compared the frequency and abundance of tetracycline-resistant and sulphadiazine-resistant bacteria and the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of these isolates in conventional, organic, and hydroponic lettuce sold in retail. We also determined the frequency of samples carrying tetB, tetX, sul1, sul2, and int1 genes by PCR and further quantified the copy number of tetX, sul1, and int1 genes in samples positive for these genes using qPCR. As expected, the number of resistant bacteria and the MICs of these isolates were lowest in hydroponic lettuce and highest in organic lettuce. All tested resistant genes, except int1, were detected in samples of all three production methods, but no significant difference was observed between the three groups in the frequency of samples carrying the resistance genes examined or in their copy number. To the best of our knowledge, it is the first study directly reporting the existence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and resistance genes in hydroponic vegetables sold in retail. The result highlights that the risk of antibiotic-resistant bacteria contamination in hydroponic produce should be further investigated.
Starch-Based Aerogels Obtained via Solvent-Induced Gelation
Authors: Dogenski Mirelle , Gurikov Pavel , Baudron Victor , Oliveira J. Vladimir de , Smirnova Irina , Ferreira Sandra R. S.
Published: September 2020

In this work, the ability of several solvents to induce gel formation from amylomaize starch solubilized in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) was investigated. The formed gels were subjected to solvent exchange using ethanol and dried with supercritical carbon dioxide (sc-CO2) to obtain the aerogels. The influence of starch concentration (3–15 wt%) and solvent content (20–80 wt%) on gel formation was also studied. It was demonstrated that the gelation of starch in binary mixtures of solvents can be rationalized by Hansen Solubility Parameters (HSP) revealing a crucial hole of hydrogen bonding for the gel’s strength, which is in agreement with rheological measurements. Only the addition of water or propylene glycol to starch/DMSO solutions resulted in strong gels at a minimum starch and solvent content of 7.5 wt% and 50 wt%, respectively. The resulting aerogels showed comparably high specific surface areas (78–144 m2 g−1) and low envelope densities (0.097–0.203 g cm−3). The results of this work indicate that the HSP parameters could be used as a tool to guide the rational selection of water-free gelation in starch/DMSO systems. In addition, it opens up an attractive opportunity to perform starch gelation in those solvents that are miscible with sc-CO2, avoiding the time-consuming step of solvent exchange.
Identifying Risk Genes and Interpreting Pathogenesis for Parkinson’s Disease by a Multiomics Analysis
Authors: Cheng Wen-Wen , Zhu Qiang , Zhang Hong-Yu
Published: September 2020

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified tens of genetic variants associated with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Nevertheless, the genes or DNA elements that affect traits through these genetic variations are usually undiscovered. This study was the first to combine meta-analysis GWAS data and expression data to identify PD risk genes. Four known genes, CRHR1, KANSL1, NSF and LRRC37A, and two new risk genes, STX4 and BST1, were identified. Among them, CRHR1 is a known drug target, indicating that hydrocortisone may become a potential drug for the treatment of PD. Furthermore, the potential pathogenesis of CRHR1 and LRRC37A was explored by applying DNA methylation (DNAm) data, indicating a pathogenesis whereby the effect of a genetic variant on PD is mediated by genetic regulation of transcription through DNAm. Overall, this research identified the risk genes and pathogenesis that affect PD through genetic variants, which has significance for the diagnosis and treatment of PD.
Comparison of Illumina versus Nanopore 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing of the Human Nasal Microbiota
Authors: Heikema Astrid P. , Horst-Kreft Deborah , Boers Stefan A. , Jansen Rick , Hiltemann Saskia D. , de Koning Willem , Kraaij Robert , de Ridder Maria A. J. , van Houten Chantal B. , Bont Louis J. , Stubbs Andrew P. , Hays John P.
Published: September 2020

Illumina and nanopore sequencing technologies are powerful tools that can be used to determine the bacterial composition of complex microbial communities. In this study, we compared nasal microbiota results at genus level using both Illumina and nanopore 16S rRNA gene sequencing. We also monitored the progression of nanopore sequencing in the accurate identification of species, using pure, single species cultures, and evaluated the performance of the nanopore EPI2ME 16S data analysis pipeline. Fifty-nine nasal swabs were sequenced using Illumina MiSeq and Oxford Nanopore 16S rRNA gene sequencing technologies. In addition, five pure cultures of relevant bacterial species were sequenced with the nanopore sequencing technology. The Illumina MiSeq sequence data were processed using bioinformatics modules present in the Mothur software package. Albacore and Guppy base calling, a workflow in nanopore EPI2ME (Oxford Nanopore Technologies—ONT, Oxford, UK) and an in-house developed bioinformatics script were used to analyze the nanopore data. At genus level, similar bacterial diversity profiles were found, and five main and established genera were identified by both platforms. However, probably due to mismatching of the nanopore sequence primers, the nanopore sequencing platform identified Corynebacterium in much lower abundance compared to Illumina sequencing. Further, when using default settings in the EPI2ME workflow, almost all sequence reads that seem to belong to the bacterial genus Dolosigranulum and a considerable part to the genus Haemophilus were only identified at family level. Nanopore sequencing of single species cultures demonstrated at least 88% accurate identification of the species at genus and species level for 4/5 strains tested, including improvements in accurate sequence read identification when the basecaller Guppy and Albacore, and when flowcell versions R9.4 (Oxford Nanopore Technologies—ONT, Oxford, UK) and R9.2 (Oxford Nanopore Technologies—ONT, Oxford, UK) were compared. In conclusion, the current study shows that the nanopore sequencing platform is comparable with the Illumina platform in detection bacterial genera of the nasal microbiota, but the nanopore platform does have problems in detecting bacteria within the genus Corynebacterium. Although advances are being made, thorough validation of the nanopore platform is still recommendable.
What Happens at Work Comes Home
Authors: Alrutz Anna Stowe , Buetow Stephen , Cameron Linda D. , Huggard Peter Kenneth
Published: September 2020

Emergency responders (police, fire, ambulance and defence force personnel) risk exposure to dangerous and traumatic events, and the possible subsequent development of post-traumatic stress disorder. Consequently, partners of these emergency responders risk developing secondary traumatic stress (STS) from vicarious exposure to the trauma through communication and engagement with their responders. A mixed-methods study of the partners of emergency responders in New Zealand examined the extent of such partner-associated STS. This article focuses on two research questions: to what extent were risk factors for STS identified within that population, and what did the participants believe may help them to mitigate the impact of STS. An online anonymous survey was developed and eligible participants completed a 17-item STS scale, a social support measure, and answered several open-ended questions. Of the 646 participants, twenty percent appear to be experiencing intrusion, arousal, and avoidance symptoms related to the trauma experienced by their responder. Almost half stated they have little or no emotional/informational support related to their responder’s work. Thematic analysis of free-text responses identified the need for additional support and more direct communication/engagement from the organisations for partners to navigate their experiences of STS and the level of social support received and required. The authors conclude with recommendations to emergency responder organisations.
Are the Parents’ and Their Children’s Physical Activity and Mode of Commuting Associated? Analysis by Gender and Age Group
Authors: Rodríguez-Rodríguez Fernando , Huertas-Delgado Francisco Javier , Barranco-Ruiz Yaira , Aranda-Balboa María Jesús , Chillón Palma
Published: September 2020

Background: Some studies have reported a positive parent–child association between physical activity (PA), but few have examined the difference in these associations concerning both genders. The objective of this study was to establish the association between moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and mode of commuting (MC) of the parents with their children by gender and age group. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 686 mothers and fathers (43.4 ± 6.5 years old) and their children (children 9.7 ± 1.7 y. and adolescents 14.0 ± 1.7 y.). Each participant completed a questionnaire on PA and MC. Chi-square test, odds ratio for categorical variables, and lineal regressions for continuous variables were used to examine the parent–child associations. Results: An inverse association was found between fathers–children in the weekend MVPA in children and between mothers–adolescents in out-of-school and weekend MVPA. An inverse association was found in MVPA between mothers-girls, and the different parents’ MC to work was positively associated with the MC to school in children and adolescents except for the association AC parents–adolescents. The AC was mainly associated between mothers and girls and boys. Conclusions: A weak association in parent–child MVPA but a strong association in MC between parent–child was found.
Go Zika Go: A Feasibility Protocol of a Modified Ride-on Car Intervention for Children with Congenital Zika Syndrome in Brazil
Authors: Longo Egmar , De Campos Ana Carolina , Spinola Barreto Amanda , Lima Nascimento Coutinho Dinara Laiana de , Leite Galvão Coelho Monique , Corsi Carolina , Souza Monteiro Karolinne , Logan Samuel Wood
Published: September 2020

Children with congenital Zika syndrome (CZS) present severe motor disability and can benefit from early powered mobility. The Go Zika Go project uses modified ride-on toy cars, which may advance the body functions, activities, and participation of children. This paper describes the study protocol aiming to assess the feasibility of a modified ride-on car intervention for children with CZS in Brazil. A mixed-methods design with a multiple 1-week baseline, 3-month intervention, and 1-month follow-up will be implemented. Modified ride-on car training sessions will be conducted three times a week at the participants’ home or in the clinic. The primary outcome will be a narrative description of study feasibility (photovoice method, focus groups, parent feasibility questionnaire and assessment of learning powered mobility). Secondary outcomes will be switch activation, driving sessions journal, social-cognitive interactions, mobility (pediatric evaluation of disability inventory computer adaptive test), goal attainment scaling (GAS), and participation (young children’s participation and environment measure). Go Zika Go is expected to be viable and to improve function, activity, and participation of children with CZS, providing a low-cost, evidence-based rehabilitation option that will be relevant to early child development in a global perspective.
Prevalence Studies on CKDu Need Stringent Reporting on Outcomes to Enhance Comparability
Authors: Jakobsson Kristina , Glaser Jason , Wesseling Catharina
Published: September 2020

Prevalence studies on Chronic Kidney Disease of unknown etiology (CKDu) need stringent reporting on outcomes following existing guidelines. Only by doing so, the much-needed comparisons between occupations, regions and climates for the elucidation of the etiology/etiologies of CKDu, and subsequently for its prevention, are possible. We, here, comment on methodological issues in a recently published study on rice farmers from West Java, Indonesia.
Quality of Life Changes in Acute Coronary Syndromes Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Kaambwa Billingsley , Gesesew Hailay Abrha , Horsfall Matthew , Chew Derek
Published: September 2020

There is little up-to-date evidence about changes in quality of life following treatment for acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients. The main aim of this review was to assess the changes in QoL in ACS patients after treatment. We undertook a systematic review and meta-analysis of quantitative studies. The search included studies that described the change of QoL of ACS patients after receiving treatment options such as percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and medical therapy (MT). We synthesized findings using content analysis and pooled the estimates using meta-analysis. We used the PRISMA guidelines to select and appraise the studies and report the findings. Twenty-nine (29) articles were included in the review. We found a significant improvement of QoL in ACS patients after receiving treatment. Particularly, the meta-analytic association found that the mean QoL of patients diagnosed with ACS was higher after receiving treatment compared to baseline (overall pooled mean difference = 31.88; 95% CI = 31.64–52.11, I2 = 98) with patients on PCI having slightly lower QoL gains (pooled mean difference = 30.22; 95% CI = 29.9–30.53, I2 = 0%) compared to those on CABG (pooled mean difference = 34.01; 95% CI = 33.66–34.37, I2 = 0%). The review confirmed that QoL of ACS patients improved after receiving treatment therapies although varied by the treatment options and patients’ preferences. This suggests the need to perform further study on the QoL, patient preferences and physicians’ decision to prescription of treatment options.
Stock-Market Behavior on Ex-Dates: New Insights from German Stocks with Tax-Free Dividend
Authors: Kreidl Felix
Published: September 2020

We examine stock prices and the number of stocks traded around ex-dividend dates of German stocks with tax-free dividend. Tax-free dividends are temporarily tax-exempt, as they reduce the initial purchasing price of a stock. With our analysis of this particular group of German stocks, we can make clear predictions regarding ex-date prices and analyze the number of stocks traded around ex-dates, doing so without the systematic bias of cum-ex trades over time. For XETRA, our empirical results indicate that ex-date prices decline, on average, by the amount of the dividend. We do not find a significant relationship between a stock’s price-drop ratio and dividend yield. Further, the empirical analysis suggests that there is no significant correlation between an abnormal number of a stock being traded and its dividend yield. These results are most consistent with tax-motivated reasoning. However, our volume analysis reveals no consistency regarding the abnormal number of stocks traded for multilateral trading facilities.
Taurine Inhibits Glucocorticoid-Induced Bone Mitochondrial Injury, Preventing Osteonecrosis in Rabbits and Cultured Osteocytes
Authors: Hirata Hiroaki , Ueda Shusuke , Ichiseki Toru , Shimasaki Miyako , Ueda Yoshimichi , Kaneuji Ayumi , Kawahara Norio
Published: September 2020

Mitochondrial injury has recently been implicated in the pathogenesis of glucocorticoid-induced osteonecrosis. Using cultured osteocytes and a rabbit model, we investigated the possibility that taurine (TAU), which is known to play a role in the preservation of mitochondrial function, might also prevent the development of osteonecrosis. To reduplicate the intraosseous environment seen in glucocorticoid-induced osteonecrosis, dexamethasone (Dex) was added to MLO-Y4 cultured in 1% hypoxia (H-D stress environment). An in vitro study was conducted in which changes in mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM), a marker of mitochondrial function, and ATP5A produced by mitochondria, induced by the presence/absence of taurine addition were measured. To confirm the effect of taurine in vivo, 15 Japanese White rabbits were administered methylprednisolone (MP) 20 mg/kg as a single injection into the gluteus muscle (MP+/TAU− group), while for 5 consecutive days from the day of MP administration, taurine 100 mg/kg was administered to 15 animals (MP+/TAU+ group). As a control 15 untreated rabbits were also studied. The rabbits in each of the groups were sacrificed on the 14th day after glucocorticoid administration, and the bilateral femora were harvested. Histopathologically, the incidence of osteonecrosis was quantified immunohistochemically by quantifying TFAM and ATP5A expression. In the rabbits exposed to an H-D stress environment and in MP+/TAU− group, TFAM and ATP5A expression markedly decreased. With addition of taurine in the in vitro and in vivo studies, the expression of TFAM and ATP5A was somewhat decreased as compared with Dex−/hypoxia− or MP−/TAU− group, while improvement was noted as compared with Dex+/hypoxia+ or MP+/TAU− group. In rabbits, the incidence of osteonecrosis was 80% in MP+/TAU− group, in contrast to 20% in the taurine administered group (MP+/TAU+), representing a significant decrease. Since taurine was documented to exert a protective effect on mitochondrial function by inhibiting the mitochondrial dysfunction associated with glucocorticoid administration, we speculated that it might also indirectly help to prevent the development of osteonecrosis in this context. Since taurine is already being used clinically, we considered that its clinical application would also likely be smooth.