bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Occupational Health and Safety and Migrant Workers: Has Something Changed in the Last Few Years?
Authors: Porru Stefano , Baldo Michela
Published: August 2022

Over the last few decades, the migratory phenomenon, supported by social, economic, and political aspects, has become progressively intensified and structured, increasing its relevance as a topic of interest for researchers of various disciplines and, among these, occupational health and safety exerts a prominent role [...]
Evaluation of Orbital Lymphoproliferative and Inflammatory Disorders by Gene Expression Analysis
Authors: Al-Ghazzawi Karim , Baum Sven Holger , Pförtner Roman , Philipp Svenja , Bechrakis Nikolaos , Görtz Gina , Eckstein Anja , Mairinger Fabian D. , Oeverhaus Michael
Published: August 2022

Non-specific orbital inflammation (NSOI) and IgG4-related orbital disease (IgG4-ROD) are often challenging to differentiate. Furthermore, it is still uncertain how chronic inflammation, such as IgG4-ROD, can lead to mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the diagnostic value of gene expression analysis to differentiate orbital autoimmune diseases and elucidate genetic overlaps. First, we established a database of NSOI, relapsing NSOI, IgG4-ROD and MALT lymphoma patients of our orbital center (2000–2019). In a consensus process, three typical patients of the above mentioned three groups (mean age 56.4 ± 17 years) at similar locations were selected. Afterwards, RNA was isolated using the RNeasy FFPE kit (Qiagen) from archived paraffin-embedded tissues. The RNA of these 12 patients were then subjected to gene expression analysis (NanoString nCounter®), including a total of 1364 target genes. The most significantly upregulated and downregulated genes were used for a machine learning algorithm to distinguish entities. This was possible with a high probability (p < 0.0001). Interestingly, gene expression patterns showed a characteristic overlap of lymphoma with IgG4-ROD and NSOI. In contrast, IgG4-ROD shared only altered expression of one gene regarding NSOI. To validate our potential biomarker genes, we isolated the RNA of a further 48 patients (24 NSOI, 11 IgG4-ROD, 13 lymphoma patients). Then, gene expression pattern analysis of the 35 identified target genes was performed using a custom-designed CodeSet to assess the prediction accuracy of the multi-parameter scoring algorithms. They showed high accuracy and good performance (AUC ROC: IgG4-ROD 0.81, MALT 0.82, NSOI 0.67). To conclude, genetic expression analysis has the potential for faster and more secure differentiation between NSOI and IgG4-ROD. MALT-lymphoma and IgG4-ROD showed more genetic similarities, which points towards progression to lymphoma.
Uncovering a Phenomenon of Active Hormone Transcriptional Regulation during Early Somatic Embryogenesis in Medicago sativa
Authors: Yuan Jianbo , Chao Yuehui , Han Liebao
Published: August 2022

Somatic embryogenesis (SE) is a developmental process in which somatic cells undergo dedifferentiation to become plant stem cells, and redifferentiation to become a whole embryo. SE is a prerequisite for molecular breeding and is an excellent platform to study cell development in the majority of plant species. However, the molecular mechanism involved in M. sativa somatic embryonic induction, embryonic and maturation is unclear. This study was designed to examine the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and miRNA roles during somatic embryonic induction, embryonic and maturation. The cut cotyledon (ICE), non-embryogenic callus (NEC), embryogenic callus (EC) and cotyledon embryo (CE) were selected for transcriptome and small RNA sequencing. The results showed that 17,251 DEGs, and 177 known and 110 novel miRNAs families were involved in embryonic induction (ICE to NEC), embryonic (NEC to EC), and maturation (EC to CE). Expression patterns and functional classification analysis showed several novel genes and miRNAs involved in SE. Moreover, embryonic induction is an active process of molecular regulation, and hormonal signal transduction related to pathways involved in the whole SE. Finally, a miRNA–target interaction network was proposed during M. sativa SE. This study provides novel perspectives to comprehend the molecular mechanisms in M. sativa SE.
The Deficiency of SCARB2/LIMP-2 Impairs Metabolism via Disrupted mTORC1-Dependent Mitochondrial OXPHOS
Authors: Zou Yujie , Pei Jingwen , Wang Yushu , Chen Qin , Sun Minli , Kang Lulu , Zhang Xuyuan , Zhang Liguo , Gao Xiang , Lin Zhaoyu
Published: August 2022

Deficiency in scavenger receptor class B, member 2 (SCARB2) is related to both Gaucher disease (GD) and Parkinson’s disease (PD), which are both neurodegenerative-related diseases without cure. Although both diseases lead to weight loss, which affects the quality of life and the progress of diseases, the underlying molecular mechanism is still unclear. In this study, we found that Scarb2−/− mice showed significantly reduced lipid storage in white fat tissues (WAT) compared to WT mice on a regular chow diet. However, the phenotype is independent of heat production, activity, food intake or energy absorption. Furthermore, adipocyte differentiation and cholesterol homeostasis were unaffected. We found that the impaired lipid accumulation of Adiponectin-cre; Scarb2fl/fl mice was due to the imbalance between glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). Mechanistically, the mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1)/ eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E binding protein 1 (4E-BP1) pathway was down-regulated in Scarb2 deficient adipocytes, leading to impaired mitochondrial respiration and enhanced glycolysis. Altogether, we reveal the role of SCARB2 in metabolism regulation besides the nervous system, which provides a theoretical basis for weight loss treatment of patients with neurodegenerative diseases.
Geometrical Properties of the Nucleus and Chromosome Intermingling Are Possible Major Parameters of Chromosome Aberration Formation
Authors: Poignant Floriane , Plante Ianik , Patel Zarana S. , Huff Janice L. , Slaba Tony C.
Published: August 2022

Ionizing radiation causes chromosome aberrations, which are possible biomarkers to assess space radiation cancer risks. Using the Monte Carlo codes Relativistic Ion Tracks (RITRACKS) and Radiation-Induced Tracks, Chromosome Aberrations, Repair and Damage (RITCARD), we investigated how geometrical properties of the cell nucleus, irradiated with ion beams of linear energy transfer (LET) ranging from 0.22 keV/μm to 195 keV/μm, influence the yield of simple and complex exchanges. We focused on the effect of (1) nuclear volume by considering spherical nuclei of varying radii; (2) nuclear shape by considering ellipsoidal nuclei of varying thicknesses; (3) beam orientation; and (4) chromosome intermingling by constraining or not constraining chromosomes in non-overlapping domains. In general, small nuclear volumes yield a higher number of complex exchanges, as compared to larger nuclear volumes, and a higher number of simple exchanges for LET < 40 keV/μm. Nuclear flattening reduces complex exchanges for high-LET beams when irradiated along the flattened axis. The beam orientation also affects yields for ellipsoidal nuclei. Reducing chromosome intermingling decreases both simple and complex exchanges. Our results suggest that the beam orientation, the geometry of the cell nucleus, and the organization of the chromosomes within are important parameters for the formation of aberrations that must be considered to model and translate in vitro results to in vivo risks.
The Leaf Trichome, Venation, and Mesophyll Structural Traits Play Important Roles in the Physiological Responses of Oak Seedlings to Water-Deficit Stress
Authors: Hernandez Jonathan O. , Park Byung Bae
Published: August 2022

In this study, we investigated the effects of water-deficit stress on the leaf anatomical traits, physiological traits, and stem starch content in Quercus acutissima Carruth and Quercus serrata Murray by subjecting their seedlings to well-watered (WW) and water-deficit stress (WS) treatments. The water stress-induced changes in trichome density, trichome-to-stomata ratio, mesophyll thickness, vein density, vein distance, vein loopiness, vessel diameter, transpiration (E), stomatal conductance (gs), water use efficiency (WUE), and starch content were analyzed between two time points. While trichome density did not vary between treatments in Q. acutissima, it dramatically increased in Q. serrata (62.63–98.96 trichomes mm−2) at the final week. The WS-treated seedlings had a thicker palisade mesophyll (162.85–169.56 µm) than the WW-treated samples (118.56–132.25 µm) in both species. The vein density and loopiness increased significantly in the WS-treated Q. serrata seedlings. Small-sized vessels (10–50 µm) were more frequent in the WS than the WW in Q. serrata. The E, gs, WUE, and starch content declined significantly in the WS-treated seedlings compared with WW-treated samples in both species. Further, principal component analysis revealed significant relationships between anatomical and physiological traits, particularly in the WS-treated seedlings of Q. serrata. The coordinated changes in leaf anatomical traits, physiological traits, and stem starch content indicate an important role in the survival of Q. acutissima and Q. serrata seedlings in water-deficit stress environments, although Q. serrata may show higher survivability under prolonged water stress than Q. acutissima.
Transcriptional and Post-Translational Regulation of Junctional Adhesion Molecule-B (JAM-B) in Leukocytes under Inflammatory Stimuli
Authors: Day-Walsh Priscilla E. , Keeble Bryony , Pirabagar Gothai , Fountain Samuel J. , Kroon Paul A.
Published: August 2022

Junctional adhesion molecules (JAMs; comprising JAM-A, -B and -C) act as receptors for viruses, mediate cell permeability, facilitate leukocyte migration during sterile and non-sterile inflammation and are important for the maintenance of epithelial barrier integrity. As such, they are implicated in the development of both communicable and non-communicable chronic diseases. Here, we investigated the expression and regulation of JAM-B in leukocytes under pathogen- and host-derived inflammatory stimuli using immunoassays, qPCR and pharmacological inhibitors of inflammatory signalling pathways. We show that JAM-B is expressed at both the mRNA and protein level in leukocytes. JAM-B protein is localised to the cytoplasm, Golgi apparatus and in the nucleus around ring-shaped structures. We also provide evidence that JAM-B nuclear localisation occurs via the classical importin-α/β pathway, which is likely mediated through JAM-B protein nuclear localisation signals (NLS) and export signals (NES). In addition, we provide evidence that under both pathogen- and host-derived inflammatory stimuli, JAM-B transcription is regulated via the NF-κB-dependent pathways, whereas at the post-translational level JAM-B is regulated by ubiquitin-proteosome pathways. Anaphase-promoting ubiquitin ligase complex (APC/C) and herpes simplex virus-associated ubiquitin-specific protease (HAUSP/USP) were identified as candidates for JAM-B ubiquitination and de-ubiquitination, respectively. The expression and regulation of JAM-B in leukocytes reported here is a novel observation and contrasts with previous reports. The data reported here suggest that JAM-B expression in leukocytes is under the control of common inflammatory pathways.
Intrathecal Actions of the Cannabis Constituents Δ(9)-Tetrahydrocannabinol and Cannabidiol in a Mouse Neuropathic Pain Model
Authors: Casey Sherelle L. , Mitchell Vanessa A. , Sokolaj Eddy E. , Winters Bryony L. , Vaughan Christopher W.
Published: August 2022

(1) Background: The psychoactive and non-psychoactive constituents of cannabis, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), synergistically reduce allodynia in various animal models of neuropathic pain. Unfortunately, THC-containing drugs also produce substantial side-effects when administered systemically. We examined the effectiveness of targeted spinal delivery of these cannabis constituents, alone and in combination. (2) Methods: The effect of acute intrathecal drug delivery on allodynia and common cannabinoid-like side-effects was examined in a mouse chronic constriction injury (CCI) model of neuropathic pain. (3) Results: intrathecal THC and CBD produced dose-dependent reductions in mechanical and cold allodynia. In a 1:1 combination, they synergistically reduced mechanical and cold allodynia, with a two-fold increase in potency compared to their predicted additive effect. Neither THC, CBD nor combination THC:CBD produced any cannabis-like side-effects at equivalent doses. The anti-allodynic effects of THC were abolished and partly reduced by cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptor antagonists AM281 and AM630, respectively. The anti-allodynic effects of CBD were partly reduced by AM630. (4) Conclusions: these findings indicate that intrathecal THC and CBD, individually and in combination, could provide a safe and effective treatment for nerve injury induced neuropathic pain.
MicroRNA in Acromegaly: Involvement in the Pathogenesis and in the Response to First-Generation Somatostatin Receptor Ligands
Authors: Henriques Daniel G. , Lamback Elisa B. , Dezonne Romulo S. , Kasuki Leandro , Gadelha Monica R.
Published: August 2022

Acromegaly is a chronic and systemic disease due to excessive growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor type I caused, in the vast majority of cases, by a GH-secreting pituitary adenoma. About 40% of these tumors have somatic mutations in the stimulatory G protein alpha-subunit 1 gene. The pathogenesis of the remaining tumors, however, is still not fully comprehended. Surgery is the first-line therapy for these tumors, and first-generation somatostatin receptor ligands (fg-SRL) are the most prescribed medications in patients who are not cured by surgery. MicroRNAs are small, non-coding RNAs that control the translation of many mRNAs, and are involved in the post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. Differentially expressed miRNAs can explain differences in the pathogenesis of acromegaly and tumor resistance. In this review, we focus on the most validated miRNAs, which are mainly involved in acromegaly’s tumorigenesis and fg-SRL resistance, as well as in circulating miRNAs in acromegaly.
Stabilizing the (003) Facet of Micron-Sized LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 Cathode Material Using Tungsten Oxide as an Exemplar
Authors: Li Yang , Ben Liubin , Yu Hailong , Zhao Wenwu , Liu Xinjiang , Huang Xuejie
Published: August 2022

The structural stability of layered LiNi1-x-yCoxMnyO2 cathode materials is critical for guaranteeing their excellent electrochemical cycling performance, particularly at elevated temperatures. However, the notorious H2–H3 phase transition along with associated large changes in the c-axis or (003) facet is the fundamental origin of the anisotropic and abrupt change in the unit cell and the degradation of the cycling performance. In this study, we coat micron-sized LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 (NCM) with tungsten oxide via atomic layer deposition and investigate the atomic-to-microscopic structures in detail via advanced characterization techniques, such as Cs-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy. The results reveal that coated tungsten oxide is predominately accumulated on the (003) facet of NCM, with the migration of a small amount of W6+ into this facet, resulting in a reduction of Ni3+ to Ni2+ and the formation of a rock-salt-like structure on the surface. The electrochemical cycling performance of tungsten-oxide-coated NCM is significantly improved, showing a capacity retention of 86.8% after 300 cycles at 55 °C, compared to only 69.4% for the bare NCM. Through further structural analysis, it is found that the initial tungsten-oxide-coating-induced (003) facet distortion effectively mitigates the expansion of the c-lattice during charge, as well as oxygen release from the lattice, resulting in a lowered strain in the cathode lattices and a crack in the cathode particles after prolonged cycling.
First Phylogeny of Pseudolychnuris Reveals Its Polyphyly and a Staggering Case of Convergence at the Andean Paramos (Lampyridae: Lampyrini)
Authors: Gisseth Ladino Peñuela Angie , Botero Juan Pablo , Lima da Silveira Luiz Felipe
Published: August 2022

South America is likely the cradle of several New World firefly lineages but remains largely understudied. Despite several advances in firefly systematics in the Neotropical region, the Andean region has been largely unstudied for over a century. The Colombian Páramos are a critically threatened biodiversity hotspot that houses several endemic species, including the firefly genus Pseudolychnuris, with two species—P. vittata and P. suturalis. Here, by analyzing the phylogenetic relationships of Pseudolychnuris, we found that this genus is polyphyletic. Pseudolychnuris vittata and P. suturalis were found to be distantly related despite the striking similarity in outline and color pattern of males and females. We redescribe Pseudolychnuris and its type species P. vittata. Moreover, we revalidate Alychnus Kirsch, 1865 stat. rev. to accommodate A. suturaliscomb. nov., also redescribed here. We provide updated distribution maps and report field observations for both monotypic genera. Since adults visit flowers and interact with pollen and nectar, Pseudolychnuris and Alychnus may be occasional pollinators of Andean-endemic plants, a phenomenon previously neglected. Our findings reveal an interesting case of convergence between Pseudolychnuris and Alychnus—probably associated with life in the Páramos—and shed light on character evolution in the Photinini lineage of fireflies.
Revealing Landscapes of Transposable Elements in Apis Species by Meta-Analysis
Authors: Yokoi Kakeru , Kimura Kiyoshi , Bono Hidemasa
Published: August 2022

Transposable elements (TEs) are grouped into several families with diverse sequences. Owing to their diversity, studies involving the detection, classification, and annotation of TEs are difficult tasks. Moreover, simple comparisons of TEs among different species with different methods can lead to misinterpretations. The genome data of several honey bee (Apis) species are available in public databases. Therefore, we conducted a meta-analysis of TEs, using 11 sets of genome data for Apis species, in order to establish data of “landscape of TEs”. Consensus TE sequences were constructed and their distributions in the Apis genomes were determined. Our results showed that TEs belonged to four to seven TE families among 13 and 15 families of TEs detected in classes I and II respectively mainly consisted of Apis TEs and that more DNA/TcMar-Mariner consensus sequences and copies were present in all Apis genomes tested. In addition, more consensus sequences and copy numbers of DNA/TcMar-Mariner were detected in Apis mellifera than in other Apis species. These results suggest that TcMar-Mariner might exert A. mellifera-specific effects on the host A. mellifera species. In conclusion, our unified approach enabled comparison of Apis genome sequences to determine the TE landscape, which provide novel evolutionary insights into Apis species.
Analysis of Key Clinical Variables and Radiological Manifestations Associated with the Treatment Response of Patients with Brain Metastases to Stereotactic Radiosurgery
Authors: Du Peng , Chen Hongyi , Shen Li , Liu Xiao , Chen Jiawei , Wu Xuefan , Yu Tonggang , Geng Daoying
Published: August 2022

Background: Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is considered a promising treatment for brain metastases (BM) with better healing efficacy, relatively faster treatment time, and lower neurotoxicity, which can achieve local control rates above 70%. Although SRS improves the local control of BM, this may not translate into improvements in survival time. Thus, screening out the key factors influencing the treatment response to SRS, instead of the survival time following SRS, might be of more significance. This may assist doctors when making adjustments to treatment strategies for patients with BM. Methods: This is a retrospective review of 696 patients with BM who were treated with SRS at Huashan Hospital, Fudan University between June 2015 and February 2020. According to the patients’ treatment response to SRS, the patients were divided into an improved group (IG) and a progressive group (PG). The clinical data and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) performed pre- and post-treatment were collected for the two groups. Five clinical variables (gender, age, Karnofsky performance status (KPS), primary tumor type, and extracranial lesion control) and seven radiological manifestations (location, number, volume, maximum diameter, edema index (EI), diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) sequence signal, and enhanced pattern) were selected and compared. A stepwise regression analysis was performed in order to obtain the best prediction effect of a group of variables and their regression coefficients, and finally to build an SRS treatment response scoring model based on the coefficients. The performance of the model was evaluated by calculating the AUC and performing the Hosmer–Lemeshow test. Results: A total of 323 patients were enrolled in the study based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, including 209 patients in the IG and 114 patients in the PG. In the Chi-square test and t-test analysis, the significant p values of KPS, extracranial lesion control, volume, and EI were less than 0.05. Moreover, the cut-off values for volume and EI were 1801.145 mm3 and 3.835, respectively. The scoring model that was based on multivariate logistic regression coefficients performed better, achieving AUCs of 0.755 ± 0.062 and 0.780 ± 0.061 for the internal validation and validation cohorts, with p values of 0.168 and 0.073 for the Hosmer–Lemeshow test. Conclusions: KPS, extracranial lesion control, tumor volume, and EI had a certain correlation with the treatment response to SRS. Scoring models that are based on these variables can accurately predict the treatment response of patients with BM to SRS, thereby assisting doctors to make an appropriate first treatment strategy for patients with BM to a certain degree.
Polymorphisms of the 11q23.3 Locus Affect the Risk and Mortality of Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Iwanicki Tomasz , Iwanicka Joanna , Balcerzyk-Matić Anna , Nowak Tomasz , Mizia-Stec Katarzyna , Bańka Paweł , Filipecki Artur , Krauze Jolanta , Jarosz Alicja , Górczyńska-Kosiorz Sylwia , Ochalska-Tyka Anna , Żak Iwona , Niemiec Paweł
Published: August 2022

Background: The present study aimed to determine whether the polymorphisms of the 11q23.3 locus affect the risk and mortality of coronary artery disease in 5-year and 10-year observations. Methods: The study group consisted of 519 subjects: 276 patients with CAD and 243 blood donors as controls. The genotyping of polymorphisms (rs10750097, rs3741298, and rs1729410) was performed using the TaqMan-PCR method. Survival was defined as the period from the angiographic confirmation of CAD to cardiovascular death, and the endpoint was defined as death from cardiovascular causes. Results: The G allele of the rs1729410 polymorphism increased the risk of CAD (OR = 1.55, p = 0.04) and showed a synergistic correlation with overweight/obesity (additive synergy index (SI) = 11.01, p < 0.001). The carriers of the GG genotype and over-normative LDL levels increased the risk of CAD by over 12-fold higher than expected (multiplicative synergy index (SIM) = 12.34, p < 0.001). In the case of the rs10750097 variant, an effect on mortality was shown in both 5-year and 10-year periods. Conclusion: The results revealed that the rs1729410 polymorphism increases the risk of CAD in synergy with traditional risk factors, and the rs10750097 polymorphism of the 11q23.3 locus affects the risk of death in patients with CAD.
Stability Enhancement of Laser-Scribed Reduced Graphene Oxide Electrodes Functionalized by Iron Oxide/Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanocomposites for Nitrite Sensors
Authors: Brahem Amina , Al-Hamry Ammar , Gross Marcos Andriola , Paterno Leonardo G. , Ali Mounir Ben , Kanoun Olfa
Published: August 2022

An iron oxide/reduced graphene oxide (ION-RGO) nanocomposite has been fabricated to functionalize a low-cost electrochemical nitrite sensor realized by light-scribed reduced graphene oxide (LRGO) electrodes on a PET substrate. To enhance the stability and adhesion of the electrode, the PET substrate was modified by RF oxygen plasma, and a thin layer of the cationic poly (diallyl dimethyl ammonium chloride) was deposited. Raman spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy coupled to energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX) reveal that the light-scribing process successfully reduces graphene oxide while forming a porous multilayered structure. As confirmed by cyclic voltammetry, the LRGO electrochemical response to ferri-ferrocyanide and nitrite is significantly improved after functionalization with the ION-RGO nanocomposite film. Under optimized differential pulse voltammetry conditions, the LRGO/ION-RGO electrode responds linearly (R2 = 0.97) to nitrite in the range of 10–400 µM, achieving a limit of detection of 7.2 μM and sensitivity of 0.14 µA/µM. A single LRGO/ION-RGO electrode stands for 11 consecutive runs. The novel fabrication process leads to highly stable and reproducible electrodes for electrochemical sensors and thus offers a low-cost option for the rapid and sensitive detection of nitrite.
Filling Time Reduction in Liquid Composite Molding Processes
Authors: Rubino Felice , Tucci Fausto , Esperto Vitantonio , Carlone Pierpaolo
Published: August 2022

The quality of Liquid Composite Molding (LCM) manufactured components is strictly related to the fibrous preform impregnation. As Darcy’s law suggests, the resin flow is influenced by the pressure gradient, geometrical features of the reinforcement, and resin viscosity. The former two parameters are dictated by the requirements of the component and other constraints; therefore, they are hardly modifiable during the process. Resin preheating increases its fluency, thus enhancing the impregnation and saturation flow, and reducing the mold filling time. In the present work, a microwave heating system has been integrated within a vacuum bag resin infusion process, to analyze the effect of the online preheating on the fiber impregnation. To monitor the resin flow a dielectric sensors-based system is used. Results from resin infusion tests conducted with and without the resin pre-heating were compared: the outcomes indicated an advance of approximately 190 s of the flow front when microwave heating is applied with respect to the unheated tests.
Prediction of Surface Roughness of SLM Built Parts after Finishing Processes Using an Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Soler Daniel , Telleria Martín , García-Blanco M. Belén , Espinosa Elixabete , Cuesta Mikel , Arrazola Pedro José
Published: August 2022

A known problem of additive manufactured parts is their poor surface quality, which influences product performance. There are different surface treatments to improve surface quality: blasting is commonly employed to improve mechanical properties and reduce surface roughness, and electropolishing to clean shot peened surfaces and improve the surface roughness. However, the final surface roughness is conditioned by multiple parameters related to these techniques. This paper presents a prediction model of surface roughness (Ra) using an Artificial Neural Network considering two parameters of the SLM manufacturing process and seven blasting and electropolishing processes. This model is proven to be in agreement with 429 experimental results. Moreover, this model is then used to find the optimal conditions to be applied during the blasting and the electropolishing in order to improve the surface roughness by roughly 60%.
Interdecadal Oscillation of the Ocean Heat Content as a Contribution to Understanding of Physical Aspects of the Present-Day Climate
Authors: Byshev Vladimir , Gusev Anatoly , Neiman Victor , Sidorova Alexandra
Published: August 2022

A Specific feature of the present-day climate dynamics consists in its multidecadal oscillations with a period of about 20–60 years, and intradecadal disturbances with time scales of 2–8 years. The period of 1940–1999 was distinctive due to the two–phase structure in which the initial phase (1940–1974) was substantially dry, and the final one (1975–1999) was relatively humid. The transition of the climate from the dry to the humid phase in the mid-1970s was recognized as a climatic shift. The certain globality and quasisynchronism of multidecadal climate changes occur involving planetary thermodynamic structures in the two most important components of the climate system, namely, the ocean and the atmosphere. The search for the origin of the observed present-day climate variability revealed the World Ocean (WO) active upper layer (AUL) heat content to demonstrate sequential multidecadal phases of heat accumulation and discharge consistent with multidecadal phases of climate disturbances. Thus, the WO AUL heat accumulation phase corresponds to a dry climate, and its thermal discharge corresponds to a relatively humid one. The mechanism of the observed multidecadal phase variability in the present-day climate consists of the planetary intrasystemic redistribution of heat between WO and continental air masses, where the general circulation of the atmosphere plays the role of an intermediary.
Estimation of Fracture Toughness of API 2W Gr.50 Steel in Ductile to Brittle Transition Behavior Using Master Curve Approach
Authors: Kim Jihoon , Park Jeongyeol , Kim Myunghyun
Published: August 2022

Welding is used as the main joining method in various industries, including the shipbuilding industry. In the case of welded structures, structural integrity assessment is essential to ensure the safety of the structure because many defects inevitably exist during the manufacturing process. The value of reliable fracture toughness is required for structural integrity assessment. It is obtained by the fracture toughness test, but the fracture toughness test requires a lot of time and effort. Therefore, many studies have been conducted on efficient methods to evaluate fracture toughness. Among the various studies that estimate fracture toughness, some have been conducted using the Charpy impact test, which is relatively simple compared to the fracture toughness test. This study conducted a series of experimental investigations on API 2W Gr.50 steel applied with different welding conditions. Based on the Charpy impact test results, the fracture behavior was well estimated in the ductile to brittle transition region according to the temperature. However, there was a difference in the accuracy of predicting fracture behavior depending on the welding process. Therefore, additional consideration reflecting the various welding conditions is required to ensure the safety of welded structures.
Spawning Period and Size at Maturity of the Ocellate Spot Skate Okamejei kenojei in the West Sea of Korea
Authors: Youn Byoung-Il , Choi Dong-Hyuk , Lee Seung-Hwan , Han Kyeong-Ho , Lee Seung-Jong , Kwon Dae-Hyeon , Kim Maeng-Jin
Published: August 2022

This study aimed to investigate the gonadal development process and size at maturity of the ocellate spot skate Okamejei kenojei (Müller and Henle, 1841). In total, 1234 specimens were collected from the center of the Korean West Sea between January 2019 and December 2020. The maturity stage of the gonads of each individual was determined visually based on size, color, and egg size. To estimate the spawning period, each specimen was measured for disc width, body weight, and gonad weight, and the monthly gonadosomatic index (GSI) was derived. The GSI of the specimens peaked in April and May, and the main spawning period occurred during June and July. Egg capsules were first observed in specimens collected in March and were most commonly observed in specimens collected in July (56.8%). The maturity ogives for disc widths of female specimens at 50%, 75%, and 97.5% maturity were 26.6, 27.9, and 30.8 cm, respectively, whereas those of male specimens were 26.2, 27.5, and 30.7 cm. The findings of this study provide basic information on reproductive ecology related to the fertility of the ocellate spot skate.
Synergism between the Antidepressant Sertraline and Caspofungin as an Approach to Minimise the Virulence and Resistance in the Dermatophyte Trichophyton rubrum
Authors: Rocha Carlos H. Lopes , Rocha Flaviane M. Galvão , Bitencourt Tamires A. , Martins Maíra P. , Sanches Pablo R. , Rossi Antonio , Martinez-Rossi Nilce M.
Published: August 2022

Trichophyton rubrum is responsible for several superficial human mycoses. Novel strategies aimed at controlling this pathogen are being investigated. The objective of this study was to evaluate the antifungal activity of the antidepressant sertraline (SRT), either alone or in combination with caspofungin (CASP). We calculated the minimum inhibitory concentrations of SRT and CASP against T. rubrum. Interactions between SRT and CASP were evaluated using a broth microdilution chequerboard. We assessed the differential expression of T. rubrum cultivated in the presence of SRT or combinations of SRT and CASP. We used MTT and violet crystal assays to compare the effect of SRT alone on T. rubrum biofilms with that of the synergistic combination of SRT and CASP. A human nail infection assay was performed. SRT alone, or in combination with CASP, exhibited antifungal activity against T. rubrum. SRT targets genes involved in the biosyntheses of cell wall and ergosterol. Furthermore, the metabolic activity of the T. rubrum biofilm and its biomass were affected by SRT and the combination of SRT and CASP. SRT alone, or in combination, shows potential as an approach to minimise resistance and reduce virulence.
Promotion Pressures of Local Leaders and Real Estate Investments: China and Leader Heterogeneity
Authors: Chen Zhuo , Hu Mingzhi , Qiu Zhiyi
Published: August 2022

Chinese local officials have strong incentives to stimulate economic growth in the pursuit of promotion. However, the connection between promotion pressure of local officials and investment in the real estate market has not been rigorously explored. By using the panel data of local leaders (municipal party secretaries or mayors) from 2002 to 2010, this paper investigates the correlations between local leaders’ promotion pressures and growth in real estate investments. Empirical results show that local leaders’ promotion pressures are significantly and positively correlated with the growth of the real estate market. Furthermore, the positive effect of promotion pressure on real estate development is significant if the leader is young or born locally, whereas this effect is insignificant if the leader is older or not a native. Our findings provide new evidence on how local leaders may strategically intervene in local economic activities.
Systematic and Idiosyncratic Risks of the U.S. Airline Industry
Authors: Bhuyan Rafiqul , Mollick André Varella , Amin Md Ruhul
Published: August 2022

Understanding the risky nature of the airline industry has received attention in the tourism literature from separate angles. Although the systematic risk of the airline industry has been examined before, idiosyncratic risk has largely been ignored. This study fills this gap in the tourism literature by investigating the effect of passengers’ air travel on systematic and idiosyncratic risks of the U.S. airline industry. Using historical air travel data and utilizing both OLS and fixed-effect models, this paper documents negative relationships between the occupancy of airline seats and idiosyncratic risks for 21 U.S. airline companies. This negative effect of occupancy is more pronounced if air travel distances are shorter, companies have lower leverage ratios, and companies are smaller in size. Policy implications for both airline managers and investors are provided.
Value of Mini Electrodes for Mapping Myocardial Arrhythmogenic Substrate—The Influence of Tip-to-Tissue Angulation and Irrigation Flow on Signal Quality
Authors: Bickel Karen , Lewalter Thorsten , Fischer Johannes , Baumgartner Christine , Hoppmann Petra , Tiemann Klaus , Jilek Clemens
Published: August 2022

Background: The use of mini electrodes with a small surface and narrow electrode-to-electrode spacing is believed to lead to a higher electrical resolution. Until now, the effects of tip-to-tissue contact, angulation, and irrigation on signal quality and morphology are unknown. Methods: The beating heart of an open-chest pig was examined while controlling the angulation and contact between the catheter tip and myocardial tissue, as well as the irrigation of the catheter tip. The mini electrodes were mounted onto commercially available 8 mm non-irrigated and 4 mm irrigated tip catheters. Different electrode interconnections, angulations, contact forces, and irrigation flow were analyzed and compared to signals recorded from conventional electrodes. Results: A total of 63 electrode samples of 21 defined, stable settings, each lasting 30 s, were analyzed. (1) Tissue contact of mini electrodes was given as soon as the conventional tip electrode showed tissue contact. (2) Angulation of the tip-to-tissue contact showed a trend towards changes in the integral of signals derived from mini electrodes, and no significant changes were seen in signals derived from conventional or mini electrodes. (3) Irrigation flow surrounding the mini electrodes did not influence signals derived from mini electrodes, whereas conventional electrodes showed signals with a longer duration under higher irrigation. Conclusion: Mini electrodes are robust to contact force and irrigation flow regarding signal quality, whereas signals of conventional electrodes are affected by irrigation flow, leading to substantial changes in signal duration and kurtosis. Signals of mini electrodes are sensitive to local electrical changes because of a high local resolution.
A Cooperative-Dominated Model of Conservation Tillage to Mitigate Soil Degradation on Cultivated Land and Its Effectiveness Evaluation
Authors: Liao Yubo , Zhang Bangbang , Kong Xiangbin , Wen Liangyou , Yao Dongheng , Dang Yuxuan , Chen Wenguang
Published: August 2022

Sustainable agricultural production systems are important for ensuring food security. However, they are severely threatened by soil degradation and carbon emissions resulting from traditional farming practices. A cooperative-dominated conservation tillage model attempts to mitigate these issues, yet it is not clear how this model has been implemented and how well it performs in practice. This study takes Lishu County in Jilin Province in Northeast China as a case study to explore the implementation of a cooperative-dominated conservation tillage (CDCT) model and its practical effectiveness. In contrast to the traditional production model, this model uses cooperatives as the direct managers of cultivated land and promotes the construction of new production units and large-scale and mechanized operations to standardize the application of conservation tillage technology in agricultural production. Scientific research institutes, governments, and enterprises are supporters of cooperatives, empowering them in terms of technology, capital, products, and services. The evaluation results show that, unlike the traditional production model, which caused a decrease in the soil organic carbon content, the organic carbon content of the topsoil of cultivated land under this model increased by an average of 6.17% after 9 years of conservation tillage application. Furthermore, the soil structural stability index of the cultivated land increased from 3.35% to 3.69%, indicating that the degree of soil structural degradation was alleviated to a certain extent. The CDCT model effectively enhanced the operational efficiency and fertilizer use efficiency, and the carbon footprint of maize production was also reduced by 15.65% compared to the traditional production model. In addition, the total production cost was reduced by 1449 CNY/ha and profit increased by 2599 CNY/ha on average, indicating higher economic returns under the CDCT model due to increased yields and lower input costs. Farmers who are freed from agricultural production activities by transferring their farmland can also gain two types of income—land revenue and labor wagesi—thus mproving their living conditions. The CDCT model can deliver multigoal benefits and be of great value in its extension to other regions. This study may provide lessons for the sustainable use of cultivated land in China and other developing countries, contributing to agricultural development with lower environmental costs.
Study on the Influence Mechanism of Intangible Cultural Heritage Distribution from Man–Land Relationship Perspective: A Case Study in Shandong Province
Authors: Meng Lin , Zhu Chuanguang , Pu Jie , Wen Bo , Si Wentao
Published: August 2022

Spatial autocorrelation, cold and hot spot analysis, and standard deviation ellipse analysis were used to analyze the spatial distribution of intangible cultural heritage (ICH). Geodetectors were used to reveal the factors that influenced the distribution in Shandong Province. The results showed that: (1) The ICH in Shandong Province covered most ICH types with the difference in the number of expressions of ICH of a different type. Traditional artistry, traditional art, traditional sports, recreation and acrobatics, and folk literature are the main types of ICH. (2) The spatial distribution of ICH showed a great difference. Multiple concentration areas and deficient areas were presented that followed the direction from southwest to northeast. (3) Man–land relationship-related factors such as population, waters, urban–rural size, and air temperature showed important influence on ICH distribution. The influence of interaction among influence factors is higher than a single factor. In summary, man–land relationships are the key factors that influenced ICH distribution.
A Procedural Modeling Approach for Ecosystem Services and Geodesign Visualization in Old Town Pocatello, Idaho
Authors: Yang Xingyue , Delparte Donna
Published: August 2022

City population has been growing rapidly worldwide due to urban expansion, which can bring negative impacts on local ecosystem services (ES). Efficient tools for urban design and visualization are essential for city planners and stakeholders to better understand the valuation impact of plans for future sustainable development. Current urban design methods are mainly based on a 2D perspective and lack vertical visualization. Although conventional 3D modeling was introduced to address these limitations, it still has some challenges, such as requiring powerful computing resources and specialized training. Procedural 3D modeling is a grammar-based set of rules that can effectively generate 3D models and enhance spatial visualization when compared with conventional 2D or 3D methods. This paper describes a framework for developing a geodesign tool in Old Town Pocatello, Idaho, USA using procedural modeling to improve planning and visualization for urban design, including (1) Geospatial data preparation in ArcGIS, (2) 3D cityscape model generation in CityEngine, and (3) interactive visualization applications for multiple platforms developed with the Unity game engine. Pocatello is a mid-sized city in southeast Idaho that faces several challenges towards integrating ecosystem services in urban design. As a case study in ecosystem service modelling, we proposed a green scenario for Old Town to demonstrate a tool where permeable surfaces were increased from 37% to 45% to help mitigate urban land surface temperature and improve stormwater management. This geodesign tool offers city planners and stakeholders an opportunity to visualize and analyze block-level scenarios in real time. The interactive applications can encourage public participation in the design process. More ES measurements can be implemented into this tool in the future. The techniques of 3D procedural modeling and ES modeling in this study are also applicable to other small to mid-sized cities worldwide.
Spatiotemporal Patterns and Drivers of the Carbon Budget in the Yangtze River Delta Region, China
Authors: Fu Qi , Gao Mengfan , Wang Yue , Wang Tinghui , Bi Xu , Chen Jinhua
Published: August 2022

Improving our understanding of the patterns and drivers of regional carbon budgets is critical to mitigating climate change regionally and globally. Different from previous research, our study attempts to reveal the comprehensive impact of climate change and human activities factors on the carbon budget. Based on the Carnegie–Ames–Stanford approach (CASA) model, the IPCC inventory method, the ordinary least squares (OLS) regression model, the Geodetector model, and the geographically weighted regression (GWR) method, we investigated the spatiotemporal patterns of the carbon budget in the Yangtze River Delta (YRD) region from 2000 to 2015 and analyzed the effects of climate change and human activities on the carbon budget. The results showed that the carbon budget in the YRD region changed from 271.33 million tons in 2000 to −1193.76 million tons in 2015. During this period, the changes in the carbon budget per unit area in the four provinces all showed a decreasing trend, among which Shanghai decreased the most, followed by Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Anhui. In terms of spatial pattern, the carbon budget of the YRD region has a “core-edge” structural feature. The closer it is to Shanghai, the core area, the more severe the carbon budget deficit; the farther from it, the greater the carbon budget surplus. Overall, we found that human activities have a greater impact on the carbon budget than climate change. The top three drivers were, in order, changes in population density, GDP per capita, and unused land, with q values of 0.3317, 0.1202, and 0.0998, respectively. Locally, the impact of the drivers on the carbon budget shows obvious spatial heterogeneity. In particular, the population density was negatively correlated with carbon budget changes in the entire study area, and the coefficients of GDP per capita and unused land were negative in most counties. Based on the results, we put forward suggestions for restricting population flow among the core area and the peripheral area, promoting industrial innovation in the core area and ecological protection in the peripheral area, as well as implementing three-dimensional space development in the core area and controlling the expansion of construction land in the peripheral area. Our study can provide a scientific basis for low-carbon development in the YRD region. The methodology and findings of this study can provide references for similar studies in other urbanized regions around the world.