bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study-Related Work and Commuting Accidents among Students at the University of Mainz from 12/2012 to 12/2018: Identification of Potential Risk Groups and Implications for Prevention
Authors: Dietz Pavel , Reichel Jennifer L. , Werner Antonia M. , Letzel Stephan
Published: May 2020

Background: Universities represent an important setting of everyday life for health promotion. The aim of the present study was to assess whether university students of specific disciplines might have an increased risk for having a study-related work accident and to analyze what types of study-related work accidents occur most frequently. Furthermore, knowledge regarding study-related commuting accidents will be provided by identifying places where study-related commuting accidents might occur most frequently and on potential types of commuting (walking vs. biking) which might be associated with an increased risk for having a study-related commuting accident. Methods: Retrospective analyses of a dataset provided by the Accident Insurance Fund of Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany, including all accidents that happened at the University of Mainz (JGU) between December 2012 and December 2018 were performed. Binominal tests were computed to reveal whether the frequency of study-related work accidents in students affiliated with a specific faculty or institution differs significantly from the expected frequency of all reported study-related work accidents. Results: Overall, 1285 study-related accidents were analyzed—of which, 71.8% were work and 28.2% commuting accidents. Students of ‘Faculty—Medicine’ (80.5%; p = 0.003), ‘Faculty—Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Geography and Geosciences’ (90.7%; p < 0.001), and students that participated in study-related sports activities (97.4%; p ≤ 0.001) had a significantly increased risk for the occurrence of a study-related work accident. Needlestick and sharps injuries (NSIs) as well as lab accidents play a pivotal role. Furthermore, above 40% of the study-related commuting accidents were cycling accidents. Conclusions: There is a call for prevention in order to decrease the number of NSIs among medical students, lab accidents as well as sport-related accidents. Concrete implications for prevention are discussed in the present paper. In addition, given that students are among the most likely to bicycle, and given that most bicycle-related accidents involve fatal injuries, cycling safety campaigns need to be initiated on campus.
Hypertension-Related Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviors among Community-Dwellers at Risk for High Blood Pressure in Shanghai, China
Authors: Gong Dan , Yuan Hong , Zhang Yiying , Li Huiqi , Zhang Donglan , Liu Xing , Sun Mei , Lv Jun , Li Chengyue
Published: May 2020

This study aimed to investigate the hypertension-related knowledge, attitudes, behaviors (KAB), and socio-demographic determinants among community-dwellers who were at risk for hypertension in Shanghai, China. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in a district of Shanghai in 2017 using multi-stage cluster sampling, including 611 participants who were at risk for hypertension. Questionnaires were used to investigate KAB regarding hypertension prevention. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to examine the relationship between socio-demographic factors and hypertension-related KAB. The results indicated that more than 75% of the study population had accurate knowledge, but only 48.4% knew the Recommended Daily Intake of salt for adults; over 80% formed health beliefs, while less than 50% were keeping a healthy diet, maintaining regular physical activity and/or bodyweight control. Better knowledge was found in the below 60 age group (p < 0.01) and the 60–69 age group (p = 0.03) than in the ≥70 age group. The behaviors in females (p < 0.01) were better than in males and were better in those covered by the Urban Employee Basic Medical Insurance (p = 0.01) than in those with the New Rural Cooperative Medical Insurance. In conclusion, although the rates of accurate knowledge and belief of hypertension prevention were high in the study population, the rates of maintaining healthy behaviors were relatively low. Socio-demographic factors had important influences on hypertension-related KAB. Further health education and intervention of hypertension prevention was needed to improve their level of KAB and reduce their risk for hypertension among the target groups.
Representation of CYP3A4, CYP3A5 and UGT1A4 Polymorphisms within Croatian Breast Cancer Patients’ Population
Authors: Bojanic Kristina , Kuna Lucija , Bilic Curcic Ines , Wagner Jasenka , Smolic Robert , Kralik Kristina , Kizivat Tomislav , Ivanac Gordana , Vcev Aleksandar , Wu George Y. , Smolic Martina
Published: May 2020

Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in genes encoding drug-metabolizing enzymes (DME) could have a critical role in individual responses to anastrozole. Frequency of CYP3A4*1B, CYP3A5*3 and UGT1A4*2 SNPs in 126 Croatian breast cancer (BC) patients and possible association with anastrozole-induced undesirable side effects were analyzed. Eighty-two postmenopausal patients with estrogen receptor (ER)-positive BC treated with anastrozole and 44 postmenopausal ER-positive BC patients before hormonal adjuvant therapy were included in the study. Genomic DNA was genotyped by TaqMan Real-Time PCR. Bone mineral density (BMD) was measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. The homozygotes for the variant G allele of CYP3A5*3 were predominant (88%), and the homozygotes for the reference A allele were not detected. While homozygotes for the variant G allele of CYP3A4*1B were not detected, predominantly wild type homozygotes for A allele (94%) were present. CYP3A4*1B and CYP3A5*3 SNPs were in 84.3% linkage disequilibrium (D’ = 0.843) and 95.1% (D’ = 0.951) in group treated with anastrozole and w/o treatment, respectively. Homozygotes for the A allele of UGT1A4*2 were not detected in our study groups. Although the variant CYP3A5*3 allele, which might result in poor metabolizer phenotype and more pronounced side effects, was predominant, significant association with BMD changes induced by anastrozole were not confirmed.
Preconception Care in a Remote Aboriginal Community Context: What, When and by Whom?
Authors: Griffiths Emma , Marley Julia V , Atkinson David
Published: May 2020

Preconception care (PCC) is acknowledged as a vital preventive health measure aiming to promote health today and for subsequent generations. We aimed to describe the content and context of PCC delivery in a very remote Australian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service setting. A retrospective audit was undertaken to identify what PCC was delivered between 2011 and 2018 to 127 Aboriginal women who had at least one pregnancy during this period. Of 177 confirmed pregnancies, 121 had received PCC prior to the pregnancy. Sexually transmissible infection screening (71%) was the most common care delivered, followed by folic acid prescription (57%) and smoking cessation support (43%). Younger women received PCC less often, particularly screening for modifiable pregnancy risk factors. Rates of prediabetes/diabetes, albuminuria, overweight/obesity and smoking were high amongst those screened (48–60%). PCC was usually patient-initiated and increased significantly over the audit period. Presentation for antenatal care in the first trimester of pregnancy was high at 73%. Opportunities to increase PCC delivery include integration with routine health checks, pregnancy tests and chronic disease programs. PCC programs codesigned with young people are also recommended. All primary care providers should be supported and assisted to provide opportunistic PCC and health promotion.
Evaluating Transmission Heterogeneity and Super-Spreading Event of COVID-19 in a Metropolis of China
Authors: Zhang Yunjun , Li Yuying , Wang Lu , Li Mingyuan , Zhou Xiaohua
Published: May 2020

COVID-19 caused rapid mass infection worldwide. Understanding its transmission characteristics, including heterogeneity and the emergence of super spreading events (SSEs) where certain individuals infect large numbers of secondary cases, is of vital importance for prediction and intervention of future epidemics. Here, we collected information of all infected cases (135 cases) between 21 January and 26 February 2020 from official public sources in Tianjin, a metropolis of China, and grouped them into 43 transmission chains with the largest chain of 45 cases and the longest chain of four generations. Utilizing a heterogeneous transmission model based on branching process along with a negative binomial offspring distribution, we estimated the reproductive number R and the dispersion parameter k (lower value indicating higher heterogeneity) to be 0.67 (95% CI: 0.54–0.84) and 0.25 (95% CI: 0.13–0.88), respectively. A super-spreader causing six infections was identified in Tianjin. In addition, our simulation allowing for heterogeneity showed that the outbreak in Tianjin would have caused 165 infections and sustained for 7.56 generations on average if no control measures had been taken by local government since 28 January. Our results highlighted more efforts are needed to verify the transmission heterogeneity of COVID-19 in other populations and its contributing factors.
Green Microalgae Scenedesmus Obliquus Utilization for the Adsorptive Removal of Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) from Water Samples
Authors: Silva Andreia , Coimbra Ricardo N. , Escapa Carla , Figueiredo Sónia A. , Freitas Olga M. , Otero Marta
Published: May 2020

In view of the valorisation of the green microalga Scenedesmus obliquus biomass, it was used for the biosorption of two nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, namely salicylic acid and ibuprofen, from water. Microalgae biomass was characterized, namely by the determination of the point of zero charge (pHPZC), by Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) analysis, simultaneous thermal analysis (STA) and scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM/EDS). Kinetic and equilibrium batch experiments were carried out and results were found to fit the pseudo-second order equation and the Langmuir isotherm model, respectively. The Langmuir maximum capacity determined for salicylic acid (63 mg g−1) was larger than for ibuprofen (12 mg g−1), which was also verified for a commercial activated carbon used as reference (with capacities of 250 and 147 mg g−1, respectively). For both pharmaceuticals, the determination of thermodynamic parameters allowed us to infer that adsorption onto microalgae biomass was spontaneous, favourable and exothermic. Furthermore, based on the biomass characterization after adsorption and energy associated with the process, it was deduced that the removal of salicylic acid and ibuprofen by Scenedesmus obliquus biomass occurred by physical interaction.
Targeted Nutritional Intervention for Patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment: The Cognitive impAiRmEnt Study (CARES) Trial 1
Authors: Power Rebecca , Nolan John , Prado-Cabrero Alfonso , Coen Robert , Roche Warren , Power Tommy , Howard Alan , Mulcahy Ríona
Published: May 2020

Omega-3 fatty acids (ω-3FAs), carotenoids, and vitamin E are important constituents of a healthy diet. While they are present in brain tissue, studies have shown that these key nutrients are depleted in individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in comparison to cognitively healthy individuals. Therefore, it is likely that these individuals will benefit from targeted nutritional intervention, given that poor nutrition is one of the many modifiable risk factors for MCI. Evidence to date suggests that these nutritional compounds can work independently to optimize the neurocognitive environment, primarily due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. To date, however, no interventional studies have examined the potential synergistic effects of a combination of ω-3FAs, carotenoids and vitamin E on the cognitive function of patients with MCI. Individuals with clinically confirmed MCI consumed an ω-3FA plus carotenoid plus vitamin E formulation or placebo for 12 months. Cognitive performance was determined from tasks that assessed global cognition and episodic memory. Ω-3FAs, carotenoids, and vitamin E were measured in blood. Carotenoid concentrations were also measured in tissue (skin and retina). Individuals consuming the active intervention (n = 6; median [IQR] age 73.5 [69.5–80.5] years; 50% female) exhibited statistically significant improvements (p < 0.05, for all) in tissue carotenoid concentrations, and carotenoid and ω-3FA concentrations in blood. Trends in improvements in episodic memory and global cognition were also observed in this group. In contrast, the placebo group (n = 7; median [IQR] 72 (69.5–75.5) years; 89% female) remained unchanged or worsened for all measurements (p > 0.05). Despite a small sample size, this exploratory study is the first of its kind to identify trends in improved cognitive performance in individuals with MCI following supplementation with ω-3FAs, carotenoids, and vitamin E.
Estimating Bargaining Power in Real Estate Pricing Models: Conceptual and Empirical Issues
Authors: Caudill Steven B. , Mixon Franklin G.
Published: May 2020

The relative bargaining power of the buyer and seller is a key feature of real estate pricing models. Classic real estate studies have sought to address bargaining effects in hedonic regression models. Prior research proposes a procedure to estimate bargaining effects in hedonic regression models that depends critically on a substitution to eliminate omitted variables bias. This study shows that the proposed solution that is often cited in the real estate economics literature does not solve the omitted variables problem given that both models are merely different parameterizations of the same model, and thus produces biased estimates of bargaining power when certain property characteristics are omitted. A classic hedonic regression model of real estate prices using Corsican apartment data supports our contention, even when the assumption of bargaining power symmetry is relaxed.
Woven Stainless-Steel Mesh as a Gas Separation Membrane for Alkaline Water-Splitting Electrolysis
Authors: Gannon William , Warwick Michael , Dunnill Charles
Published: May 2020

A 316-grade woven stainless-steel mesh membrane was investigated as a gas-separation membrane for alkaline water-splitting electrolysis. Its resistance was measured using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and linear sweep voltammetry (LSV), with the conclusion that it presented approximately half the resistance of a comparable commercial alternative (ZirfonTM). Its gas-separation performance was analysed using gas chromatography (GC) at 140 mA cm−2, where it achieved 99.25% purity at the hydrogen outlet of the electrolyser. This fell to 97.5% under pumped circulation, which highlights that it is sensitive to pressure differentials. Nevertheless, this mixture is still more than a factor two inside the upper flammability limit of hydrogen in oxygen. It is hoped that such a low-cost material may bring entry-level electrolysis to many hitherto discounted applications.
Protein Dielectrophoresis: I. Status of Experiments and an Empirical Theory
Authors: Hölzel Ralph , Pethig Ronald
Published: May 2020

The dielectrophoresis (DEP) data reported in the literature since 1994 for 22 different globular proteins is examined in detail. Apart from three cases, all of the reported protein DEP experiments employed a gradient field factor ∇ E m 2 that is much smaller (in some instances by many orders of magnitude) than the ~4 × 1021 V2/m3 required, according to current DEP theory, to overcome the dispersive forces associated with Brownian motion. This failing results from the macroscopic Clausius–Mossotti (CM) factor being restricted to the range 1.0 > CM > −0.5. Current DEP theory precludes the protein’s permanent dipole moment (rather than the induced moment) from contributing to the DEP force. Based on the magnitude of the β-dispersion exhibited by globular proteins in the frequency range 1 kHz–50 MHz, an empirically derived molecular version of CM is obtained. This factor varies greatly in magnitude from protein to protein (e.g., ~37,000 for carboxypeptidase; ~190 for phospholipase) and when incorporated into the basic expression for the DEP force brings most of the reported protein DEP above the minimum required to overcome dispersive Brownian thermal effects. We believe this empirically-derived finding validates the theories currently being advanced by Matyushov and co-workers.
Mineralogical Prediction of Flotation Performance for a Sediment-Hosted Copper–Cobalt Sulphide Ore
Authors: Tijsseling Laurens T. , Dehaine Quentin , Rollinson Gavyn K. , Glass Hylke J.
Published: May 2020

As part of a study investigating the influence of mineralogical variability in a sediment hosted copper–cobalt deposit in the Democratic Republic of Congo on flotation performance, the flotation of nine sulphide ore samples was investigated through laboratory batch kinetics tests and quantitative mineral analyses. Using a range of ore samples from the same deposit the influence of mineralogy on flotation performance was studied. Characterisation of the samples through QEMSCAN showed that bornite, chalcopyrite, chalcocite and carrollite are the main copper-bearing sulphide minerals while carrollite is the only cobalt-bearing mineral. Mineralogical characteristics were averaged per sample to allow for a quantitative correlation with flotation performance parameters. Equilibrium recoveries, rate constants and final grades of the samples were correlated to the feed mineralogy through Multiple Linear Regression (MLR). Target sulphide minerals content and particle size, magnesiochlorite content, carrollite liberation and association of the copper and cobalt minerals with magnesiochlorite and dolomite were used to predict flotation performance. Leave One Out Cross Validation (LOOCV) revealed that the final copper and cobalt grades are predicted with an R2 of 0.80 and 0.93 and Root Mean Square Error of Cross Validation (RMSECV) of 4.41% and 1.34%. The recovery of cobalt and copper with time can be predicted with an R2 of 0.94 for both and an overall test error of 4.70% and 5.14%. Overall, it was shown that quantitative understanding of changes in mineralogy allows for prediction of changes in flotation performance.
Use of Seawater/Brine and Caliche’s Salts as Clean and Environmentally Friendly Sources of Chloride and Nitrate Ions for Chalcopyrite Concentrate Leaching
Authors: Hernández Pía , Dorador Alexis , Martínez Monserrat , Toro Norman , Castillo Jonathan , Ghorbani Yousef
Published: May 2020

A less harmful approach for the environment regarding chalcopyrite concentrate leaching, using seawater/brine and caliche’s salts as a source of chloride and nitrate ions, was investigated. Different variables were evaluated: sulfuric acid concentration, sodium nitrate concentration, chloride concentration, source of water (distilled water, seawater, and brine), temperature, concentrate sample type, nitrate source (analytical grade and industrial salt), and pre-treatment methods in order to obtain maximum copper extraction. All tests were performed at moderate temperatures (≤45 °C) and atmospheric pressure. The leaching system using distilled water, seawater, and brine base media resulted in copper extraction of 70.9%, 90.6%, and 86.6% respectively. The leaching media, with a concentration of 20 g/L Cl−, obtained a maximum Cu extraction of 93.5%. An increase in the concentration of H2SO4 and NaNO3 from 0.5 to 0.7 M, led to an increase in the copper extraction. The use of an industrial salt compared to the analytical salt did not show great variations in the percentage of extraction achieved, which would be a good and cost effective alternative. The increase in temperature from 25 to 45 °C showed a great effect on the copper leaching (of 60% until 90.6%, respectively). The pre-treatment is suggested to increase copper extraction from 60.0% to 71.4%.
Development of Porous Titania Structure with Improved Photocatalytic Activity: Response Surface Modeling and Multi-Objective Optimization
Authors: Mahu Elvira , Ignat Maria , Cojocaru Corneliu , Samoila Petrisor , Coromelci Cristina , Asaftei Iuliean , Harabagiu Valeria
Published: May 2020

Porous titania was successfully synthesized by an ultrasound-assisted sol-gel route. The synthesis process was empirically modeled and optimized using the response surface methodology (RSM). Input variables adopted for optimization dealt with the weight ratio of precursors (r) and the sonication time (t), representing the used factors in the synthesis procedure. With regard to application, the synthesized TiO2 samples were tested for the photodegradation of two water-soluble organic pollutants under UV–Vis irradiation. Optimal conditions for the efficient pollutants’ photodegradation were found to involve a precursors ratio of 3 and a sonication time of 60 min. Thus, the M5 sample prepared under the founded optimal conditions yielded the maximal removal efficiencies of 98.4% and 46.3% for the photodegradation of CR dye and 2,4-D herbicide, respectively. In addition, the photodegradation kinetics revealed the pseudo first-order rate constants, showing the photodegradation of CR (k1 = 8.86 × 10−2 min−1) by M5 sample is about 1.3-fold faster than the photodegradation of 2,4-D pesticide (k2 = 6.84 × 10−2 min−1).
Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanosheet-Decorated Copper Oxide Nanoparticles: A Potent Antifungal Nanocomposite against Fusarium Root Rot and Wilt Diseases of Tomato and Pepper Plants
Authors: El-Abeid Sozan E. , Ahmed Yosra , Daròs José-Antonio , Mohamed Mohamed A.
Published: May 2020

Sustainable use of nanotechnology in crop protection requires an understanding of the plant’s life cycle, potential toxicological impacts of nanomaterials and their mechanism of action against the target pathogens. Herein, we show some properties of a candidate antifungal nanocomposite made from copper oxide (CuO; otherwise an essential soil nutrient) nanoparticles (NPs), with definite size and shape, decorating the surface of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanosheets. The successful preparation of the rGO-CuO NPs was confirmed by spectroscopic and microscopic analyses, and its antifungal activity against wild strains of Fusarium oxysporum affecting tomato and pepper plants was successfully confirmed. A comparative analysis in vitro indicated that this nanocomposite had higher antifungal activity at only 1 mg/L than the conventional fungicide Kocide 2000 at 2.5 g/L. Further investigation suggested that rGO-CuO NPs creates pits and pores on the fungal cell membranes inducing cell death. In planta results indicated that only 1 mg/L from the nanocomposite is required to reduce Fusarium wilt and root rot diseases severity below 5% for tomato and pepper plants without any phytotoxicity for about 70 days. Comparatively, 2.5 g/L of Kocide 2000 are required to achieve about 30% disease reduction in both plants. The present study contributes to the concept of agro-nanotechnology, showing the properties of a novel ecofriendly and economic nanopesticide for sustainable plant protection.
CuFeAl Nanocomposite Catalysts for Coal Combustion in Fluidized Bed
Authors: Fedorov Aleksandr V. , Yazykov Nikolay A. , Bulavchenko Olga A. , Saraev Andrey A. , Kaichev Vasily V. , Yakovlev Vadim A.
Published: May 2020

A method of oil-drop granulation was suggested for the preparation of spherical CuFeAl nanocomposite catalysts. The catalysts were characterized by a set of physicochemical methods (X-ray diffraction, temperature-programmed reduction by H2, low-temperature nitrogen adsorption, crushing strength) and tested in the oxidation of CO and burning of brown coal in a fluidized bed. It was found that the catalysts have high mechanical strength (16.2 MPa), and their catalytic properties in the oxidation of CO are comparable to the characteristics of industrial Cr-containing catalysts. It was shown that the addition of pseudoboehmite at the stage of drop formation contributes to the production of uniform spherical high-strength granules and facilitates the stabilization of the phase state of the active component. The use of CuFeAl nanocomposite catalysts for the burning of brown coal provides a low emission of CO (600 ppm) and NOx (220 ppm) and a high degree of coal burnout (95%), which are close to those of the industrial Cr-containing catalysts (emission of CO is 700 ppm, NOx—230 ppm, and degree of coal burnout is 95%).
Graphene Decorated Zinc Oxide and Curcumin to Disinfect the Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Oves Mohammad , Rauf Mohd. Ahmar , Ansari Mohammad Omaish , Aslam Parwaz Khan Aftab , A Qari Huda , Alajmi Mohamed F. , Sau Samaresh , Iyer Arun K
Published: May 2020

Sometimes, life-threatening infections are initiated by the biofilm formation facilitated at the infection site by the drug-resistant bacteria Staphylococcus aureus. The aggregation of the same type of bacteria leads to biofilm formation on the delicate tissue, dental plaque, and skin. In the present investigation, a Graphene (Gr)-based nano-formulation containing Curcumin (C.C.M.) and Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) showed a wide range of anti-microbial activity against Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) biofilm and demonstrated the anti-microbial mechanism of action. The anti-microbial effect of GrZnO nanocomposites, i.e., GrZnO-NCs, suggests that the integrated graphene-based nanocomposites effectively suppressed both sensitive as well as MRSA ATCC 43300 and BAA-1708 isolates. The S. aureus inhibitory effect of GrZnO-NCs improved >5-fold when combined with C.C.M., and demonstrated a M.I.C. of 31.25 µg/mL contrasting with the GrZnO-NCs or C.C.M. alone having M.I.C. value of 125 µg/mL each. The combination treatment of GrZnO-NCs or C.C.M. inhibited the M.R.S.A. topical dermatitis infection in a mice model with a significant decrease in the CFU count to ~64%. Interestingly, the combination of C.C.M. and GrZnO-NCs damaged the bacterial cell wall structure, resulting in cytoplasm spillage, thereby diminishing their metabolism. Thus, owing to the ease of synthesis and highly efficient anti-microbial properties, the present graphene-based curcumin nano-formulations can cater to a new treatment methodology against M.R.S.A.
Household Food Insecurity and the Association with Cumulative Biological Risk among Lower-Income Adults: Results from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys 2007–2010
Authors: Leung Cindy W. , Zhou Megan S.
Published: May 2020

Household food insecurity has been associated with adverse health outcomes; however, the mechanisms underlying these associations are not well-defined. Using data from 5005 adults from the 2007–2010 National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES), we examined associations between household food insecurity and cumulative biological risk, a measure of the body’s physiological response to chronic stress. Household food security was assessed using the 18-item Household Food Security Survey Module. Marginal food security refers to 1–2 positive responses, and food insecurity refers to ≥3 positive responses. The cumulative biological risk scores were calculated based on the distributions of ten biomarkers from the cardiovascular, metabolic, and immune systems. Elevated biological risk was defined as a risk score of ≥3. Multivariable regression models were used to examine associations between food security and cumulative biological risk scores, adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics. After multivariable adjustment, food insecurity was associated with a 0.14-unit higher cumulative biological risk score (95% CI 0.05–0.22, p-trend = 0.003) and higher odds of elevated biological risk (OR 1.20, 95% CI 1.05–1.37, p-trend = 0.003). These associations differed by gender. Among women, food insecurity was associated with 0.30-unit higher cumulative biological risk score (95% CI 0.14–0.45, p-trend = 0.0004) and higher odds of elevated biological risk (OR 1.61, 95% CI 1.29–2.00, p-trend < 0.0001). These associations were not observed in men. Women experiencing food insecurity demonstrated elevated levels of biological risk. These findings support the hypothesis that food insecurity may be associated with women’s chronic health outcomes through the pathway of chronic stress. Further research is needed to understand why these associations were not observed in men.
In Vitro Antigenotoxic, Antihelminthic and Antioxidant Potentials Based on the Extracted Metabolites from Lichen, Candelariella vitellina
Authors: El-Garawani Islam , Emam Mahmoud , Elkhateeb Waill , El-Seedi Hesham , Khalifa Shaden , Oshiba Salwa , Abou-Ghanima Shaimaa , Daba Ghoson
Published: May 2020

Lichens have recently received great attention due to their pharmacological potentials. The antigenotoxic potential of C. vitellina extract (25 and 50 µg/mL) was assessed in normal human peripheral blood lymphocytes (HPBL) against Mitomycin C (MMC) co-treatments. Flow cytometric analyses of cell cycle distribution, as well as apoptosis (Annexin V/PI), revealed that the extract had significantly (p ≤ 0.05) ameliorated the MMC toxicity by reducing the apoptotic cells and normalized the cell cycle phases. C. vitellina exhibited antigenotoxicity by ameliorating the diminished mitotic index and DNA single-strand breaks caused by MMC. Herein, the hydromethanolic extract (80%) of Candelariella vitellina (Japan) lichen, exhibited very low cytotoxicity towards normal human peripheral lymphocytes (HPBL) with IC50 >1000 µg/mL. In order to explore the antihelminthic effect, Echinococcus granulosus protoscoleces were used in vitro. Eosin staining revealed significant (p ≤ 0.05) dose and time-dependent scolicidal effects of the extract confirmed by degenerative alterations as observed by electron scan microscopy. Furthermore, primary and secondary metabolites were investigated using GC-MS and qualitative HPLC, revealing the presence of sugars, alcohols, different phenolic acids and light flavonoids. Significant antioxidant capacities were also demonstrated by DPPH radical-scavenging assay. In conclusion, the promising antigenotoxic, antihelminthic and antioxidant potentials of C. vitellina extract encourage further studies to evaluate its possible therapeutic potency.
Phytoremediation Potential, Photosynthetic and Antioxidant Response to Arsenic-Induced Stress of Dactylis glomerata L. Sown on Fly Ash Deposits
Authors: Gajić Gordana , Djurdjević Lola , Kostić Olga , Jarić Snežana , Stevanović Branka , Mitrović Miroslava , Pavlović Pavle
Published: May 2020

Arsenic (As) from coal fly ash can be released into soil/groundwater, presenting a global threat to the environment and human health. To overcome this environmental problem, phytoremediation represents an urgent need, providing ‘green’ cleanup of contaminated lands. The present study focused on As concentrations in fly ash and plants, evaluation of phytoremediation potential of Dactylis glomerata sown on fly ash deposits together with its photosynthetic activity, and oxidative and antioxidative response to As stress. Field research was carried out on fly ash deposits at the thermal power plant “Nikola Tesla”, Obrenovac (TENT-A, Serbia) and the control site. Fly ash is characterized by alkaline pH reactions, small amounts of organic matter, a large amount of available phosphate, and total and available As concentrations. Results in this study indicate that phosphate application can ameliorate As toxicity, uptake and root-shoot transport. Furthermore, D. glomerata can be considered as good As phytostabilizator, because it retains more As in roots than in leaves. Excess As in leaves decreases photosynthetic efficiency (Fv/Fm) and concentrations of chlorophylls, carotenoids, and anthocyanins, whereas high content of malondialdehyde (MDA) can be a signal for biosynthesis phenolics and ascorbic acid, providing cellular redox homeostasis and recovery of photosystem II (PSII) photochemistry. In the roots, low oxidative stress under high concentrations of As is related to intense antioxidant biosynthesis. Taken together, the results in this study indicate a high adaptive potential of D. glomerata to As stress. These findings may suggest that physiological and metabolic tools can be used as a way forward in the ‘real field’ scenario, phytomanagement of fly ash and ecosystem services providing sustainable phytoremediation of As-contaminated sites around the globe.
Erratum: Surface Energy of Filtration Media Influencing the Filtration Performance against Solid Particles, Oily Aerosol, and Bacterial Aerosol. Polymers 2019, 11, 935
Authors: Jung Seojin , An Jaejin , Na Hyungjin , Kim Jooyoun
Published: May 2020

The authors wish to make a change to the published paper [...]
Positively Charged Polymers as Promising Devices against Multidrug Resistant Gram-Negative Bacteria: A Review
Authors: Alfei Silvana , Schito Anna Maria
Published: May 2020

Antibiotic resistance has increased markedly in Gram-negative bacteria, causing severe infections intractable with traditional drugs and amplifying mortality and healthcare costs. Consequently, to find novel antimicrobial compounds, active on multidrug resistant bacteria, is mandatory. In this regard, cationic antimicrobial peptides (CAMPs)—able to kill pathogens on contact—could represent an appealing solution. However, low selectivity, hemolytic toxicity and cost of manufacturing, hamper their massive clinical application. In the recent years—starting from CAMPs as template molecules—less toxic and lower-cost synthetic mimics of CAMPs, including cationic peptides, polymers and dendrimers, have been developed. Although the pending issue of hemolytic toxicity and biodegradability is still left not completely solved, cationic antimicrobial polymers (CAPs), compared to small drug molecules, thanks to their high molecular weight, own appreciable selectivity, reduced toxicity toward eukaryotic cells, more long-term activity, stability and non-volatility. With this background, an updated overview concerning the main manufactured types of CAPs, active on Gram-negative bacteria, is herein reported, including synthetic procedure and action’s mechanism. Information about their structures, antibacterial activity, advantages and drawbacks, was reported in the form of tables, which allow faster consultation and quicker learning concerning current CAPs state of the art, in order not to retrace reviews already available.
Study on Optimization of Damping Performance and Damping Temperature Range of Silicone Rubber by Polyborosiloxane Gel
Authors: Zhao Jiang , Jiang Nan , Zhang Dongsheng , He Bobing , Chen Xian
Published: May 2020

Polyborosiloxane gel (PBS-gel) with shear hardening properties was prepared by cross-linking boric acid and hydroxyl-terminated polydimethylsiloxane through B–O–Si dynamic covalent bonding. The prepared PBS gel was mixed with methyl vinyl silicone rubber (MVQ), and a benzoyl peroxide (BPO) cross-linking agent was added to vulcanize the silicone rubber. At the same time, the gel molecules were co-vulcanizing with MVQ to produce molecular cross-linking. The effects of PBS-gel on the damping properties of silicone rubber were analyzed by dynamic rheological test, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and dynamic mechanical analysis. The results demonstrated that the damping performance of MVQ/PBS rubber is greatly improved and the rubber has a tanδ > 0.3 in the range of −25~125 °C. The shear-hardening gel is uniformly dispersed in the system, due to the combined action of covalent bonds and intermolecular forces, which act as an active molecular chain that can efficiently dissipate and transfer energy inside the silicone rubber.
An Insight into the Structural Diversity and Clinical Applicability of Polyurethanes in Biomedicine
Authors: Rusu Laura-Cristina , Ardelean Lavinia Cosmina , Jitariu Adriana-Andreea , Miu Catalin Adrian , Streian Caius Glad
Published: May 2020

Due to their mechanical properties, ranging from flexible to hard materials, polyurethanes (PUs) have been widely used in many industrial and biomedical applications. PUs’ characteristics, along with their biocompatibility, make them successful biomaterials for short and medium-duration applications. The morphology of PUs includes two structural phases: hard and soft segments. Their high mechanical resistance featuresare determined by the hard segment, while the elastomeric behaviour is established by the soft segment. The most important biomedical applications of PUs include antibacterial surfaces and catheters, blood oxygenators, dialysis devices, stents, cardiac valves, vascular prostheses, bioadhesives/surgical dressings/pressure-sensitive adhesives, drug delivery systems, tissue engineering scaffolds and electrospinning, nerve generation, pacemaker lead insulation and coatings for breast implants. The diversity of polyurethane properties, due to the ease of bulk and surface modification, plays a vital role in their applications.
Prevention of Secondary Caries Using Resin-Based Pit and Fissure Sealants Containing Hydrated Calcium Silicate
Authors: Yang Song-Yi , Choi Ji-Won , Kim Kwang-Mahn , Kwon Jae-Sung
Published: May 2020

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of hydrated calcium silicate filler (hCS) on resin-based pit and fissure sealants’ acid neutralization, calcium ion release, and mechanical and physical properties. To produce the hCS filler, Portland cement (CS) was mixed with distilled water and ground into fine particles. The particles were then mixed with silanized glass filler and added to a photo-activated resin matrix. To evaluate the acid neutralization and calcium ion release properties, the specimens were immersed in a pH 4.0 lactic acid solution and distilled water for 28 days. Also, the flexural strength, depth of cure, water sorption, and solubility were tested. All of the groups containing hCS and CS required less than one minute to increase the pH from 4.0 to 5.5. With 50% hCS, the calcium ion release was higher than 50% CS in the distilled water at the initial time. The flexural strength and depth of cure decreased according to the increasing proportion of hCS added. The water sorption and solubility had an increasing trend as increasing proportions of hCS were added. These findings showed that pit and fissure sealant containing hCS exhibit superior acid neutralization and calcium release properties, and may be promising for caries-inhibiting dental material.
Greening the Gas Grid—Evaluation of the Biomethane Injection Potential from Agricultural Residues in Austria
Authors: Stürmer Bernhard
Published: May 2020

In order to implement the Paris Climate Agreement, the current Austrian coalition government has included trend-setting targets in its policy statement. “Green gas” plays a key role in this context, as the natural gas grid shall also gradually become renewable. This article analyses the technical biomethane injection potential for agricultural residues based on Integrated Administration and Control System (IACS) data on a municipal level. While a technical biogas potential of 16.2 TWhCH4 from catch crops, farm manure, straw and beet leaves is available, only about half of it can be fed into the gas grid because of technical and economic reasons. Austria’s biomethane injection potential of 7.4 TWhCH4 is mainly produced in arable farming regions. In order to further increase this potential, the investment costs of biogas upgrading plants must be reduced, the use of biogenic waste and energy crops must be further promoted and an investor-friendly legal framework must be created.
Skip Re-Entry Trajectory Detection and Guidance for Maneuvering Vehicles
Authors: Sun Hongqiang , Zhang Shuguang
Published: May 2020

The re-entry trajectory of maneuvering vehicles with medium to high hypersonic lift-to-drag ratios is generally planned using quasi-equilibrium flight conditions known from Space Shuttles. They may exhibit an oscillation re-entry phenomenon termed skip re-entry when related components or sensors fail. However, conventional re-entry guidance only considers quasi-equilibrium flights and ignores the possibility of the occurrence of an unexpected skip trajectory; this may lead to the failure of the re-entry mission due to a lack of a corresponding guidance strategy. However, the detection of a skip trajectory is the necessary reference for the decision-making of calling a related guidance algorithm that helps improve the safety of vehicle re-entry. Herein, a skip re-entry detection and trajectory control solution is proposed to play an emergency role in the cases of skip re-entry. Firstly, the oscillation frequency characteristics of the linearized re-entry motion equation of a vehicle are analyzed, and an approximate analytical relationship is constructed for skip altitude estimation. Then, the residual deviation between the altitude feedback data and the estimated skip altitude is calculated and compared with the threshold to determine the occurrence of skip re-entry. In addition, a method for controlling the skip re-entry trajectory with the range extension is developed by controlling the bank angle with a fixed angle of attack profile, satisfying the path constraint requirements. The results indicate that the method effectively performs skip re-entry detection and that it can help extend the range of the vehicles in abnormal re-entry scenarios, keeping the flight within the path constraints and guiding it to the expected location.
eLearning 4.0 as a Sustainability Strategy for Generation Z Language Learners: Applied Linguistics of Second Language Acquisition in Younger Adults
Authors: Pikhart Marcel , Klímová Blanka
Published: May 2020

The implementation of various eLearning platforms has seen an incredible and unprecedented rise in the past decade in our universities. The aim of this pilot research study is to explore the gap in second language acquisition research for technologically savvy Generation Z, whose members use modern technologies, especially mobile applications, in their learning process in a massive way. More specifically, the authors focus on students’ perceptions of the use of traditional and blended learning supported by an eLearning course in order to reveal students’ attitudes to and expectations from these learning modalities. Altogether, 40 university students participated in an experiment. The findings clearly show that the present eLearning platform is no longer an attractive option for students of Generation Z since these students want to participate in the creation of its content and collaborate and interact with each other in ways they are used to with other social media platforms such as Facebook. The implications of the research are important for educators and designers of various eLearning courses who need to take this into account. Further implications suggest a new approach to the exploitation of eLearning platform connected to Web 4.0. The basic principle of the new approach is to use these platforms and should harness all the possibilities of artificial intelligence, deep learning, machine learning, and computational linguistics. In conclusion, the study reflects the basic and pragmatic principles upon which eLearning 4.0 should be based in order to become a more efficient tool for modern education and sustainability.
Cooperative Learning of Seiryu-Tai Hayashi Learners for the Hida Furukawa Festival in Japan
Authors: Hwang Shyh-Huei , Chan Hsu-Ying
Published: May 2020

The residents of Furukawa-cho, Hida City, Gifu Prefecture, Japan use cooperative learning during festival organization to preserve the various traditional arts of Hida Furukawa Festival, such as Hayashi. The goals of this study were to (1) analyze the aspects of cooperative learning of Seiryu-tai Hayashi learners involved in the Furukawa Festival, and (2) determine the effects of factors influencing cooperative learning on the aspects of cooperative learning among these learners. We applied grounded theory and conducted a field study on the six years of the Furukawa Festival and residents’ daily lives since 2014. We numbered, coded, and categorized text data, and classified the data using the KJ method. We applied the five elements of cooperative learning by Johnson and Johnson, and analyzed the cooperative learning processing of Seiryu-tai, considering five aspects: (1) cultivation and skills: to follow the norms of Hayashi learning and then cultivate the skills; (2) demonstration and imitation: the process of Hayashi learning without notation; (3) instruction and accompanying: elders addressed norms and demonstrated skills, providing comfort and encouragement; (4) experience and feeling: interacting with unqualified learners to experience the Hayashi atmosphere, and (5) others and interaction: experience of a different culture. From the analyses, we found that the five elements of cooperative learning in Hayashi cooperative learning provide new functions. We applied the five elements of cooperative learning to analyze the five aspects of Azure Dragon Stall’s Hayashi cooperative learning: (1) positive interdependence: deep interdependence exists in the core of the learning circle, and guarding and immersion are included; (2) individual accountability: achievement of following the norms, enhancing skills, and having a tacit agreement on the instrumental ensemble; (3) promotive interaction: five interactive types are influenced, including people who follow etiquette, people who need to be advised, people who imitate, people with tolerance, and people who interact; (4) the division of social skills into four types including playing, performing, senior, and foreign, and (5) group processing, which includes learners, instructors, senior learners, elders, youths, and foreign visitors, who jointly form the Hayashi learning circle.
A Lightweight Android Malware Classifier Using Novel Feature Selection Methods
Authors: Salah Ahmad , Shalabi Eman , Khedr Walid
Published: May 2020

Smartphones and mobile tablets play significant roles in daily life and have led to an increase in the number of users of this technology. The rising number of mobile device end-users has resulted in the generation of malware by hackers. Thus, mobile devices are becoming vulnerable to malware. Machine learning plays an important role in the detection of mobile malware applications. In this study, we focus on static analysis for Android malware detection. The ultimate goal of this research is to find out the symmetric features across the malware Android application to easily detect them. Many state-of-the-art methods focus on extracting asymmetric patterns of the category of features, e.g., application permissions to distinguish the malware application from the benign application. In this work, we propose a compromise by considering different types of static features and select the most important features that affect the detection process. These features represent the symmetric pattern to be used for the classification task. Inspired by TF-IDF, we propose a novel method of feature selection. Moreover, we propose a new method for merging the Android application URLs into a single feature called the URL_score. Several linear machine learning classifiers are utilized to evaluate the proposed method. The proposed methods significantly reduce the feature space, i.e., the symmetric pattern, of the Android application dataset and the memory size of the final model. In addition, the proposed model achieves the highest reported accuracy for the Drebin dataset to date. Based on the evaluation results, the linear support vector machine achieves an accuracy of 99%.