bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Energy Potential of Agri Residual Biomass in Southeast Asia with the Focus on Vietnam
Authors: Beňová Denisa , Mareš Kryštof , Hutla Petr , Ivanova Tatiana , Banout Jan , Kolaříková Michel
Published: January 2021

Southeast Asia currently faces a huge increase in energy consumption and serious environmental issues. A widely underutilized and still unexplored potential of these countries lies in residual biomass. In the present research, the production quantities and energy yields of the most abundant agricultural byproducts in Vietnam, i.e., rice straw, rice husks, sugarcane bagasse and sugarcane trash, were calculated. Total crop yield, residues ratio and net calorific values of the wet basis biomass served as input parameters for the calculations. Moreover, the results were found for individual regions and provinces of the country. The findings show that the production of paddy rice straw is an enormous 97 million tons per year with an energy potential of over 380 TWh, as well as another 9 million tons yearly and 35 TWh in the case of rice husks. More than half of rice biomass production is concentrated in the Mekong River Delta region. Harvesting and processing of sugarcane annually generates about 5 million tons of bagasse and over 3.5 million tons of sugarcane trash with the total energy potential of about 27 TWh, which is primarily available in the central regions of Vietnam. The detailed laboratory determination of fuel-energy properties of studied materials, such as gross and net calorific value, volatile matter, ash and moisture content and contents of chemical elements was also carried out. Based on the research results and literature analysis, the possibilities of biofuel production and energy utilization of the above-mentioned residues are discussed.
Automated Source Code Generation and Auto-Completion Using Deep Learning: Comparing and Discussing Current Language Model-Related Approaches
Authors: Cruz-Benito Juan , Vishwakarma Sanjay , Martin-Fernandez Francisco , Faro Ismael
Published: January 2021

In recent years, the use of deep learning in language models has gained much attention. Some research projects claim that they can generate text that can be interpreted as human writing, enabling new possibilities in many application areas. Among the different areas related to language processing, one of the most notable in applying this type of modeling is programming languages. For years, the machine learning community has been researching this software engineering area, pursuing goals like applying different approaches to auto-complete, generate, fix, or evaluate code programmed by humans. Considering the increasing popularity of the deep learning-enabled language models approach, we found a lack of empirical papers that compare different deep learning architectures to create and use language models based on programming code. This paper compares different neural network architectures like Average Stochastic Gradient Descent (ASGD) Weight-Dropped LSTMs (AWD-LSTMs), AWD-Quasi-Recurrent Neural Networks (QRNNs), and Transformer while using transfer learning and different forms of tokenization to see how they behave in building language models using a Python dataset for code generation and filling mask tasks. Considering the results, we discuss each approach’s different strengths and weaknesses and what gaps we found to evaluate the language models or to apply them in a real programming context.
Entomological Surveillance and Cantharidin Concentrations in Mylabris variabilis and Epicauta rufidorsum Blister Beetles in Slovenia
Authors: Jakovac-Strajn Breda , Brozić Diana , Tavčar-Kalcher Gabrijela , Babič Janja , Trilar Tomi , Vengust Modest
Published: January 2021

True blister beetles (genus Epicauta, family Meloidae) produce cantharidin, which can cause toxicosis in humans and animals. Some recent reports suggest that poisoning by the blister beetle has occurred in the Mediterranean part of Slovenia, which has never been reported before. Drought and modern harvesting techniques are thought to increase the likelihood of blister beetle forage contamination and cantharidin intoxication in animals. A survey of fields associated with blister beetle contamination was conducted and the Meloid species present were identified. Entomological surveillance was conducted for Mylabris variabilis and Epicauta rufidorsum. Cantharidin concentrations were also measured in both blister beetle species. Cantharidin concentration in Mylabris variabilis (n = 17) ranged from 0.038 to 0.354 µg/mg (mean 0.151 µg/mg). Cantharidin concentration in Epicauta rufidorsum (n = 36) ranged from 0.055 to 0.341 µg/mg (mean 0.142 µg/mg). Both species exhibited variable concentrations of cantharidin that could not be associated with their biology, sex, age, size, and/or reproductive status. Epicauta rufidorsum have never previously been studied as a possible source of forage contamination, nor have cantharidin concentrations been determined in this species. It is the most likely source of forage contamination due to its abundance in the investigated fields, its swarming activity, and its tendency to reside in the green parts of plants immediately after cutting. Delaying the simultaneous processing and storage of forage after cutting would reduce the likelihood of forage contamination by blister beetles, as they can then retreat to the ground or fly away.
Deep Learning-Based Methods for Prostate Segmentation in Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Comelli Albert , Dahiya Navdeep , Stefano Alessandro , Vernuccio Federica , Portoghese Marzia , Cutaia Giuseppe , Bruno Alberto , Salvaggio Giuseppe , Yezzi Anthony
Published: January 2021

Magnetic Resonance Imaging-based prostate segmentation is an essential task for adaptive radiotherapy and for radiomics studies whose purpose is to identify associations between imaging features and patient outcomes. Because manual delineation is a time-consuming task, we present three deep-learning (DL) approaches, namely UNet, efficient neural network (ENet), and efficient residual factorized convNet (ERFNet), whose aim is to tackle the fully-automated, real-time, and 3D delineation process of the prostate gland on T2-weighted MRI. While UNet is used in many biomedical image delineation applications, ENet and ERFNet are mainly applied in self-driving cars to compensate for limited hardware availability while still achieving accurate segmentation. We apply these models to a limited set of 85 manual prostate segmentations using the k-fold validation strategy and the Tversky loss function and we compare their results. We find that ENet and UNet are more accurate than ERFNet, with ENet much faster than UNet. Specifically, ENet obtains a dice similarity coefficient of 90.89% and a segmentation time of about 6 s using central processing unit (CPU) hardware to simulate real clinical conditions where graphics processing unit (GPU) is not always available. In conclusion, ENet could be efficiently applied for prostate delineation even in small image training datasets with potential benefit for patient management personalization.
Coal Fly Ash–Clay Based Geopolymer-Incorporating Electric Arc Furnace Dust (EAFD): Leaching Behavior and Geochemical Modeling
Authors: Cifrian Eva , Dacuba Juan , Llano Tamara , Díaz-Fernández María del Carmen , Andrés Ana
Published: January 2021

The recent recovery processes of electric arc furnace dust (EAFD) include stabilization within materials with potential uses in the construction sector. The stabilization of EAFD by alkaline activation of different alumina-silicates, resulting in low-cost and environmentally friendly materials. The leaching standards within the different European regulations allow evaluating waste materials and products. This work aims to study the introduction of EAFD in FA–clay geopolymers, assessing the environmental and geochemical behavior in two different scenarios, disposal, and utilization. For it, the compliance equilibrium-based batch test (EN 12457-2) and pH dependence test (EN 14429) have been used. The dosages of EAFD in the geopolymeric matrix are 5% to 20% with curing temperatures of 75 °C and 225 °C. The introduction of EAFD favors the development of the flexural strength. From the environmental point of view, metals related to EAFD, such as Zn, Pb, or Cu, are retained in the matrix. While As or Se, comes mainly from clay, present a high concentration. Therefore, the role of clay should be analyzed in future research. As expected by the high iron content in the EAFD, the iron complexes on the surface of the material are responsible for immobilization of metals in this type of matrix.
Chromatographic Characterization and In Vitro Bioactivity Evaluation of Lactobacillus helveticus Hydrolysates upon Fermentation of Different Substrates
Authors: Ianni Federica , Altomare Alessandra Anna , Cenci-Goga Beniamino T. , Blasi Francesca , Grispoldi Luca , Regazzoni Luca , Cossignani Lina
Published: January 2021

Among various food sources, milk proteins remain the major vector for functional peptides endowed with several biological activities. Particularly, the proteolytic activity of lactic acid bacteria during milk fermentation has been one of the most followed strategies to produce bioactive peptides. In the present study, the exploration of the activity of several starter cultures, at different fermentation times, was firstly investigated by reversed phase-high performance liquid chromatography. Among the tested strains, Lactobacillus helveticus showed a higher proteolytic activity and it was submitted to further investigations by changing the fermentation substrate (skim milk, brain heart infusion, peptone water) as well as the extraction strategy (trichloroacetic acid vs. glass beads). The chromatographic analyses and the in vitro antioxidant and antihypertensive assays highlighted considerable differences for L. helveticus hydrolysates from different substrates, while a negligible impact by the two extraction protocols emerged. Furthermore, nano-high pressure liquid chromatography coupled with a high resolution mass spectrometry analyzer allowed the preliminary discrimination of fractions from fermented skim milk, likely responsible for the found activity. The obtained results suggest the possibility of varying the fermentation parameters in order to maximize the functional effects of the bioactive peptides.
Concrete Crack Detection Based on Well-Known Feature Extractor Model and the YOLO_v2 Network
Authors: Teng Shuai , Liu Zongchao , Chen Gongfa , Cheng Li
Published: January 2021

This paper compares the crack detection performance (in terms of precision and computational cost) of the YOLO_v2 using 11 feature extractors, which provides a base for realizing fast and accurate crack detection on concrete structures. Cracks on concrete structures are an important indicator for assessing their durability and safety, and real-time crack detection is an essential task in structural maintenance. The object detection algorithm, especially the YOLO series network, has significant potential in crack detection, while the feature extractor is the most important component of the YOLO_v2. Hence, this paper employs 11 well-known CNN models as the feature extractor of the YOLO_v2 for crack detection. The results confirm that a different feature extractor model of the YOLO_v2 network leads to a different detection result, among which the AP value is 0.89, 0, and 0 for ‘resnet18’, ‘alexnet’, and ‘vgg16’, respectively meanwhile, the ‘googlenet’ (AP = 0.84) and ‘mobilenetv2’ (AP = 0.87) also demonstrate comparable AP values. In terms of computing speed, the ‘alexnet’ takes the least computational time, the ‘squeezenet’ and ‘resnet18’ are ranked second and third respectively; therefore, the ‘resnet18’ is the best feature extractor model in terms of precision and computational cost. Additionally, through the parametric study (influence on detection results of the training epoch, feature extraction layer, and testing image size), the associated parameters indeed have an impact on the detection results. It is demonstrated that: excellent crack detection results can be achieved by the YOLO_v2 detector, in which an appropriate feature extractor model, training epoch, feature extraction layer, and testing image size play an important role.
Anatomical Risk Factors of Inferior Alveolar Nerve Injury Association with Surgical Extraction of Mandibular Third Molar in Korean Population
Authors: Kim Hee Jin , Jo Ye Joon , Choi Jun Seok , Kim Hyo Joon , Kim Jin , Moon Seong Yong
Published: January 2021

The purpose of this study was to analyze the incidence and risk factors of possible inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) injury after extraction of the mandibular third molars. A total of 6182 patients were examined for 10,310 mandibular third molar teeth. Panoramic radiography and patients’ medical records were used to analyze age, gender, and impaction pattern of the mandibular third molar. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) was used to investigate the detailed pathway of the inferior alveolar nerve and evaluated the presence of symptoms of nerve damage after tooth extraction. In CBCT, 6283 cases (61%) of the inferior alveolar nerve were actually in contact with the root of the mandibular third molar. The correlation with the panoramic signs of root darkening (p < 0.001), root deflection (p < 0.001), interruption of the IAN (p < 0.001), diversion of the IAN (p < 0.001), and narrowing of the IAN (p < 0.001) had statistical significance. Of the 4708 patients who underwent surgical extraction, 31 (0.658%) complained of nerve damage. Among them, 30 patients (0.637%) complained of symptoms of inferior alveolar nerve damage, and 1 patient (0.02%) complained of symptoms of lingual nerve damage. There was a significant correlation with IAN injury in cases where the roots became dark at the IAN area (p = 0.018) and there was diversion of the IAN at the root area (p = 0.041). When the narrowing of the IAN and the lingual driving pathway of the inferior alveolar nerve appeared simultaneously in CBCT, the risk of IAN injury was high.
A Parallel Meta-Heuristic Approach to Reduce Vehicle Travel Time in Smart Cities
Authors: Rico-Garcia Hector , Sanchez-Romero Jose-Luis , Jimeno-Morenilla Antonio , Migallon-Gomis Hector
Published: January 2021

The development of the smart city concept and inhabitants’ need to reduce travel time, in addition to society’s awareness of the importance of reducing fuel consumption and respecting the environment, have led to a new approach to the classic travelling salesman problem (TSP) applied to urban environments. This problem can be formulated as “Given a list of geographic points and the distances between each pair of points, what is the shortest possible route that visits each point and returns to the departure point?”. At present, with the development of Internet of Things (IoT) devices and increased capabilities of sensors, a large amount of data and measurements are available, allowing researchers to model accurately the routes to choose. In this work, the aim is to provide a solution to the TSP in smart city environments using a modified version of the metaheuristic optimization algorithm Teacher Learner Based Optimization (TLBO). In addition, to improve performance, the solution is implemented by means of a parallel graphics processing unit (GPU) architecture, specifically a Compute Unified Device Architecture (CUDA) implementation.
Copy Number Variation: Methods and Clinical Applications
Authors: Pös Ondrej , Radvanszky Jan , Styk Jakub , Pös Zuzana , Buglyó Gergely , Kajsik Michal , Budis Jaroslav , Nagy Bálint , Szemes Tomas
Published: January 2021

Gains and losses of large segments of genomic DNA, known as copy number variants (CNVs) gained considerable interest in clinical diagnostics lately, as particular forms may lead to inherited genetic diseases. In recent decades, researchers developed a wide variety of cytogenetic and molecular methods with different detection capabilities to detect clinically relevant CNVs. In this review, we summarize methodological progress from conventional approaches to current state of the art techniques capable of detecting CNVs from a few bases up to several megabases. Although the recent rapid progress of sequencing methods has enabled precise detection of CNVs, determining their functional effect on cellular and whole-body physiology remains a challenge. Here, we provide a comprehensive list of databases and bioinformatics tools that may serve as useful assets for researchers, laboratory diagnosticians, and clinical geneticists facing the challenge of CNV detection and interpretation.
Monte Carlo Study of Imaging Plate Response to Laser-Driven Aluminum Ion Beams
Authors: Won Junho , Song Jaehyeon , Palaniyappan Sasi , Gautier Donald Cort , Jeong Wonhee , Fernández Juan Carlos , Bang Woosuk
Published: January 2021

We measured the response of BAS-TR imaging plate (IP) to energetic aluminum ions up to 222 MeV, and compared it with predictions from a Monte Carlo simulation code using two different IP response models. Energetic aluminum ions were produced with an intense laser pulse, and the response was evaluated from cross-calibration between CR-39 track detector and IP energy spectrometer. For the first time, we obtained the response function of the BAS-TR IP for aluminum ions with a kinetic energy as high as 222 MeV. On close examination of the two IP response models, we confirm that the exponential model fits our experimental data better. Moreover, we find that the IP sensitivity in the exponential model is nearly constant in this energy range, suggesting that the response function can be determined even with little experimental data.
Method for Horizontal Calibration of Laser-Projection Transnasal Fiberoptic High-Speed Videoendoscopy
Authors: Ghasemzadeh Hamzeh , Deliyski Dimitar D. , Hillman Robert E. , Mehta Daryush D.
Published: January 2021

Objective: Calibrated horizontal measurements (e.g., mm) from endoscopic procedures could be utilized for advancement of evidence-based practice and personalized medicine. However, the size of an object in endoscopic images is not readily calibrated and depends on multiple factors, including the distance between the endoscope and the target surface. Additionally, acquired images may have significant non-linear distortion that would further complicate calibrated measurements. This study used a recently developed in vivo laser-projection fiberoptic laryngoscope and proposes a method for calibrated spatial measurements. Method: A set of circular grids was recorded at multiple working distances. A statistical model was trained that would map from pixel length of the object, the working distance, and the spatial location of the target object into its mm length. Result: A detailed analysis of the performance of the proposed method is presented. The analyses have shown that the accuracy of the proposed method does not depend on the working distance and length of the target object. The estimated average magnitude of error was 0.27 mm, which is three times lower than the existing alternative. Conclusion: The presented method can achieve sub-millimeter accuracy in horizontal measurement. Significance: Evidence-based practice and personalized medicine could significantly benefit from the proposed method. Implications of the findings for other endoscopic procedures are also discussed.
Reliability Study of Equilibrium Moisture Content Methods for Sorption/Desorption Isotherms Determination of Autoclaved Aerated Concrete
Authors: Slávik Richard , Struhárová Alena , Čekon Miroslav
Published: January 2021

Autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) and its hygric parameters are a highly important issue in the field of building physics. There are several methods currently available to determine the equilibrium moisture content of building materials. Beside the conventional ones, new methods are constantly being introduced. This study explores the sorption/desorption properties of of three types of commercially produced AACs with three different bulk densities and demonstrates the application of the relevant methods available to characterize these parameters. The reliable characterization of the studied material was done through the conventional static approach, using the desiccator and an environmental chamber, and a new automated method of dynamic vapor sorption is implemented. The goal is to compare and identify the reliability of all methods used with respect to the efficiency of the data measurement process. Sound consistency between the results of the conventional methods and the experimental data obtained indicates the dynamic vapor sorption technique is highly reliable when measuring the equilibrium moisture content—particularly exemplified during the AAC sample testing. Therefore, the methodology developed in this study is expected to provide the reference for measuring the sorption/desorption isotherms of building materials with both static and automated techniques.
A Tailored Biomimetic Hydrogel as Potential Bioink to Print a Cell Scaffold for Tissue Engineering Applications: Printability and Cell Viability Evaluation
Authors: Chen Shyuan-Yow , Cho Yung-Chieh , Yang Tzu-Sen , Ou Keng-Liang , Lan Wen-Chien , Huang Bai-Hung , Saito Takashi , Tsai Chi-Hsun , Peng Bou-Yue , Chuo Yen-Chun , Lin Hung-Yang , Chao Hsiao-Wei , Walinski Christopher J. , Ruslin Muhammad
Published: January 2021

The present study established a maximum standard for printing quality and developed a preliminary ideal index to print three-dimensional (3D) construct using the Gly-Arg-Gly-Asp (GRGD) peptide modified Pluronic-F127 hydrogel (hereafter defined as 3DG bioformer (3BE)) as bioink. In addition, the biocompatibility of 3BE for 3D printing applications was carefully investigated. For biocompatibility study and ideal printing parameter, we used the formulation of 3BE in three different concentrations (3BE-1: 25%, 3BE-2: 30%, and 3BE-3: 35%). The 3BE hydrogels were printed layer by layer as a cube-like construct with all diameters of the needle head under the same feed (100 mm/s). The printing parameters were determined using combinations of 3BE-1, 3BE-2, and 3BE-3 with three different standard needle sizes (Φ 0.13 mm, Φ 0.33 mm, and Φ 0.9 mm). The printed constructs were photographed and observed using optical microscopy. The cell viability and proliferation were evaluated using Live/Dead assay and immunofluorescence staining. Results showed that a stable of printed line and construct could be generated from the 3BE-3 combinations. Cytotoxicity assay indicated that the 3BE hydrogels possessed well biocompatibility. Bioprinting results also demonstrated that significant cell proliferation in the 3BE-3 combinations was found within three days of printing. Therefore, the study discovered the potential printing parameters of 3BE as bioink to print a stable construct that may also have high biocompatibility for cell encapsulation. This finding could serve as valuable information in creating a functional scaffold for tissue engineering applications.
Investigation of Mechanical Properties, Durability and Microstructure of Low-Clinker High-Performance Concretes Incorporating Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag, Siliceous Fly Ash and Silica Fume
Authors: Konieczna Katarzyna , Chilmon Karol , Jackiewicz-Rek Wioletta
Published: January 2021

The main assumption of eco-efficient High-Performance Concrete (HPC) design is the reduction of Portland cement clinker content without negatively affecting the composite’s mechanical and durability properties. In this paper, three low-clinker HPC mixtures incorporating slag cement (CEM III/B as per EN 197-1) and Supplementary Cementitious Materials (SCMs)—Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (GGBFS), Siliceous Fly Ash (SFA) and Silica Fume (SF)—were designed. The maximum amount of Portland cement clinker from CEM III/B varied from 64 to 116 kg in 1 m3 of concrete mix. The compressive strength of HPC at 2, 7, 14, 28, 56, 90 days, and 2 years after casting, as well as the modulus of elasticity on 2-year-old specimens, was tested. The depth of water penetration under pressure and internal frost resistance in freeze–thaw tests were evaluated after 56 days of curing. Additionally, the concrete pH value tests were performed. The microstructure of 2-year-old HPC specimens was analyzed using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The research proved that it is possible to obtain low-clinker High-Performance Concretes that reach compressive strength of 76–92 MPa after 28 days of curing, show high values of modulus of elasticity (49–52 GPa) as well as increased resistance to frost and water penetration under pressure.
Methylglyoxal (MGO) in Italian Honey
Authors: Terio Valentina , Bozzo Giancarlo , Ceci Edmondo , Savarino Alessandra Emilia , Barrasso Roberta , Di Pinto Angela , Mottola Anna , Marchetti Patrizia , Tantillo Giuseppina , Bonerba Elisabetta
Published: January 2021

Methylglyoxal (MGO) is recognized as being the bioactive component responsible for the antibacterial activity of mānuka honey. MGO content was investigated by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC-UV), in isocratic elution, to assess the occurrence of this compound in mono- and multi-floral honey samples representative of different botanical and geographic origins in Italy. Specifically, 110 honey samples from sweet cherry tree (Prunus avium L.), thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.), almond tree (Prunus amygdalus L.), eucalyptus (Eucalyptus camaldulensis L.), coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.), cornflower (Centaurea cyanus L.), thistle (Silybum marianum L.), acacia (Robinia pseudoacacia L.), citrus, honeydew and multifloral honey were considered. The amount of MGO found in different types of honey was ranging from 0.4 to 24.1 mg/kg. This study provides, for the first time, data on MGO levels in Italian cherry and almond honey, which showed higher concentrations of MGO compared to honeys from other botanical species.
Machine Learning Approach to Develop a Novel Multi-Objective Optimization Method for Pavement Material Proportion
Authors: Liang Chunyu , Xu Xin , Chen Heping , Wang Wensheng , Zheng Kunkun , Tan Guojin , Gu Zhengwei , Zhang Hao
Published: January 2021

Asphalt mixture proportion design is one of the most important steps in asphalt pavement design and application. This study proposes a novel multi-objective particle swarm optimization (MOPSO) algorithm employing the Gaussian process regression (GPR)-based machine learning (ML) method for multi-variable, multi-level optimization problems with multiple constraints. First, the GPR-based ML method is proposed to model the objective and constraint functions without the explicit relationships between variables and objectives. In the optimization step, the metaheuristic algorithm based on adaptive weight multi-objective particle swarm optimization (AWMOPSO) is used to achieve the global optimal solution, which is very efficient for the objectives and constraints without mathematical relationships. The results showed that the optimal GPR model could describe the relationship between variables and objectives well in terms of root-mean-square error (RMSE) and R2. After the optimization by the proposed GPR-AWMOPSO algorithm, the comprehensive pavement performances were enhanced in terms of the permanent deformation resistance at high temperature, crack resistance at low temperature as well as moisture stability. Therefore, the proposed GPR-AWMOPSO algorithm is the best option and efficient for maximizing the performances of composite modified asphalt mixture. The GPR-AWMOPSO algorithm has advantages of less computational time and fewer samples, higher accuracy, etc. over traditional laboratory-based experimental methods, which can serve as guidance for the proportion optimization design of asphalt pavement.
A Feedback Control Method to Maintain the Amplitude of the RF Signal Applied to Ion Traps
Authors: Park Yunjae , Oh Hyunseok , Yoo Seungwoo , Kim Taehyun , Cho Dongil “Dan”
Published: January 2021

For high-fidelity quantum operations in ion traps, it is important to maintain the secular frequency of the trapped ions at a constant value. The radial secular frequency is proportional to the amplitude of the radio frequency (RF) signal applied to ion traps. Owing to the changes in the ambient temperature of a helical resonator and the minute vibration of the optical table, the amplitude can vary. Recently, a method for reducing the fluctuation in the RF signal amplitude, using a commercial universal proportional-plus-integral (PI) controller, has been introduced, which, in turn, reduces the secular frequency drift of the trapped ions. The method improves the capability to maintain the secular frequency at a constant value. However, the structure of the controller is fixed; thus, the control method cannot be changed to suit different experimental conditions, and the different feedback configuration cannot be implemented to increase the resolution. In this paper, we develop a field-programmable gate array (FPGA)-based feedback controller that allows the implementation of various automatic control methods and feedback configurations. In our experiments, the fluctuation in the amplitude of the RF signal was 1.806% using a commercial universal PI controller. The fluctuation was reduced to 0.099% using the developed FPGA-based PI controller, and to 0.102% using the developed FPGA-based lag compensator. By employing the developed FPGA control method, many other automating control methods can be applied to achieve a stable and high-performance control of the secular frequency.
Designing a Climate Service for Planning Climate Actions in Vulnerable Countries
Authors: Photiadou Christiana , Arheimer Berit , Bosshard Thomas , Capell René , Elenius Maria , Gallo Ilaria , Gyllensvärd Frida , Klehmet Katharina , Little Lorna , Ribeiro Isabel , Santos Léonard , Sjökvist Elin
Published: January 2021

The next generation of climate services needs not only tailoring to specific user needs but to provide, in addition, access to key information in a usable way that satisfies the needs of different users’ profiles; especially web-based services. Here, we present the outcomes from developing such a new interactive prototype. The service provides data for robust climate analysis to underpin decision-making when planning measures to compensate for climate impact. The goal is to facilitate the communication on climate information between climate modelling communities and adaptation or mitigation initiatives from vulnerable countries that are applying for funds from the Green Climate Fund (GCF). A participatory process was ensured during four workshops in four pilot countries, with an audience of national and international experts. During this process it was made clear that in all countries there is a strong need for knowledge in climate science, while in most countries there was also an increasing need of capacity in hydrological modelling and water management. The active interaction during the workshops was found necessary to facilitate the dialogue between service developers and users. Understanding the users, transparency on potentials and limitations of climate services together with capacity development in climate science and methods were required components in the development of the service.
First High-Frequency Underway Observation of DMS Distribution in the Southern Ocean during Austral Autumn
Authors: Kim Intae , Zhang Miming , Kim Kitae , Park Keyhong
Published: January 2021

We investigate the distribution of dimethyl sulfide (DMS) in the Southern Ocean’s (50° W to 170° W) surface water, including the Antarctic Peninsula and the marginal sea ice zone (MIZ) in the Ross and Amundsen Seas. This is the first high-frequency observation conducted in the austral autumn (in April) in the Southern Ocean. The mean DMS concentration was 2.7 ± 2.5 nM (1 σ) for the entire study area. Noticeably enhanced DMS (5 to 28 nM) concentrations were observed in the MIZ around the Ross and Amundsen Seas and the coastal regions in the Antarctic Peninsula; this could be attributed to biological production of local ice algae, which appears to be supplied with nutrients from glacial or sea ice melt water. These observed DMS inventories were significantly higher (an order of magnitude) than current climatological DMS inventories. The local DMS sources being transported outward from the polynyas, where strong bloom occurs during summer, could result in larger discrepancies between observed DMS and climatological DMS in the MIZ area (in the Amundsen Sea). Overall, this study is the first to highlight the significance of the underestimation of current DMS fluxes in the austral autumn, which consequently results in significant errors in the climate models.
A Semigroup Is Finite Iff It Is Chain-Finite and Antichain-Finite
Authors: Banakh Iryna , Banakh Taras , Bardyla Serhii
Published: January 2021

A subset A of a semigroup S is called a chain (antichain) if ab∈{a,b} (ab∉{a,b}) for any (distinct) elements a,b∈A. A semigroup S is called periodic if for every element x∈S there exists n∈N such that xn is an idempotent. A semigroup S is called (anti)chain-finite if S contains no infinite (anti)chains. We prove that each antichain-finite semigroup S is periodic and for every idempotent e of S the set e∞={x∈S:∃n∈N(xn=e)} is finite. This property of antichain-finite semigroups is used to prove that a semigroup is finite if and only if it is chain-finite and antichain-finite. Furthermore, we present an example of an antichain-finite semilattice that is not a union of finitely many chains.
The Influence of Melatonin and Light on VEGF Secretion in Primary RPE Cells
Authors: Klettner Alexa , Kampers Miriam , Töbelmann Daniela , Roider Johann , Dittmar Manuela
Published: January 2021

(1) Background: Retinal pigment epithelial cells (RPE) cells constitutively secrete vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the retina, protecting the neuronal cells and the choroid. Increased VEGF secretion, however, can result in neovascularization and edema. Many factors regulate VEGF secretion. In this study, we investigated the effect of external stimuli in relation to diurnal rhythm on constitutive VEGF secretion. (2) Methods: Single-eye RPE cell culture was prepared from porcine eyes. RPE cells were cultured in darkness, treated with daylight or room light, and treated with melatonin at different time frames, either respectively or in combination. Supernatants were collected and VEGF content evaluated using ELISA. Expression of the clock protein BMAL1 was evaluated with Western blot. (3) Results: VEGF secretion of the RPE shows a diurnal rhythm. While the rhythm is not influenced by either light or melatonin, the amount of secreted VEGF can be increased by nocturnal melatonin, especially in combination with morning daylight. These findings disclose another layer of VEGF regulation in the retina.
Crosstalk between Depression and Dementia with Resting-State fMRI Studies and Its Relationship with Cognitive Functioning
Authors: Kim Junhyung , Kim Yong-Ku
Published: January 2021

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common type of dementia, and depression is a risk factor for developing AD. Epidemiological studies provide a clinical correlation between late-life depression (LLD) and AD. Depression patients generally remit with no residual symptoms, but LLD patients demonstrate residual cognitive impairment. Due to the lack of effective treatments, understanding how risk factors affect the course of AD is essential to manage AD. Advances in neuroimaging, including resting-state functional MRI (fMRI), have been used to address neural systems that contribute to clinical symptoms and functional changes across various psychiatric disorders. Resting-state fMRI studies have contributed to understanding each of the two diseases, but the link between LLD and AD has not been fully elucidated. This review focuses on three crucial and well-established networks in AD and LLD and discusses the impacts on cognitive decline, clinical symptoms, and prognosis. Three networks are the (1) default mode network, (2) executive control network, and (3) salience network. The multiple properties emphasized here, relevant for the hypothesis of the linkage between LLD and AD, will be further developed by ongoing future studies.
Performance of the Intermittently Scanned Continuous Glucose Monitoring (isCGM) System during a High Oral Glucose Challenge in Adults with Type 1 Diabetes—A Prospective Secondary Outcome Analysis
Authors: Moser Othmar , Tripolt Norbert , Pferschy Peter , Obermayer Anna , Kojzar Harald , Mueller Alexander , Yildirim Hakan , Sourij Caren , Eckstein Max , Sourij Harald
Published: January 2021

To assess intermittently scanned continuous glucose monitoring (isCGM) performance for different rates of change in plasma glucose (RCPG) during glycemic challenges in type 1 diabetes (T1D). Nineteen people with T1D (7 females; age 35 ± 11 years; HbA1c 7.3 ± 0.6% (56 ± 7 mmol/mol)) performing two glycemic challenges (OGTT) were included. During OGTTs, plasma glucose was compared against sensor glucose for timepoints 0 min (pre-OGTT), +15 min, +30 min, +60 min, +120 min, +180 min, and +240 min by means of median absolute (relative) difference (MARD and MAD) and Clarke Error Grid (CEG), then was stratified for RCPG and glycemic ranges. Overall, MARD was 8.3% (4.0–14.8) during hypoglycemia level 1 18.8% (15.8–22.0), euglycemia 9.5% (4.3–15.1), hyperglycemia level 1 9.4% (4.0–17.2), and hyperglycemia level 2 7.1% (3.3–11.9). The MARD was associated with the RCPG (p < 0.0001), detailing significant differences in comparison of low, moderate, high, and very high RCPG (p = 0.014). Overall, CEG resulted in 88% (212 values) of comparison points in zone A, 12% (29 values) in zone B, and 0.4% (1 value) in zone D. The isCGM system was accurate during OGTTs. Its performance was dependent on the RCPG and showed an overestimation of the actual reference glucose during hypoglycemia.
The Role of Audiovisual Speech in Fast-Mapping and Novel Word Retention in Monolingual and Bilingual 24-Month-Olds
Authors: Weatherhead Drew , Arredondo Maria M. , Nácar Garcia Loreto , Werker Janet F.
Published: January 2021

Three experiments examined the role of audiovisual speech on 24-month-old monolingual and bilinguals’ performance in a fast-mapping task. In all three experiments, toddlers were exposed to familiar trials which tested their knowledge of known word–referent pairs, disambiguation trials in which novel word–referent pairs were indirectly learned, and retention trials which probed their recognition of the newly-learned word–referent pairs. In Experiment 1 (n = 48), lip movements were present during familiar and disambiguation trials, but not retention trials. In Experiment 2 (n = 48), lip movements were present during all three trial types. In Experiment 3 (bilinguals only, n = 24), a still face with no lip movements was present in all three trial types. While toddlers succeeded in the familiar and disambiguation trials of every experiment, success in the retention trials was only found in Experiment 2. This work suggests that the extra-linguistic support provided by lip movements improved the learning and recognition of the novel words.
A Systematic Review of Design Creativity in the Architectural Design Studio
Authors: Casakin Hernan , Wodehouse Andrew
Published: January 2021

Creativity is fundamental to design problem-solving. This paper sets out a systematic review of the literature in relation to its role in the architectural design studio in order to identify central issues that impact upon this activity. Challenges and best practices in relation to systematic reviews are outlined, and the procedure followed in this context is set out in detail. This involves an iterative evaluation process that resulted in a pool of 17 papers for analysis. Eleven themes emerged in the analysis of the papers, which were organized into five key categories dealing with: pedagogy, cognitive approach, interaction and socialization, information representation, and measuring ideation and creativity. A discussion of these categories contributed to the comparison and connections between the selected papers, and the identification of critical issues and directions for promoting creativity in the architectural design studio.
Exploring Metabolic Adaptations to the Acidic Microenvironment of Osteosarcoma Cells Unveils Sphingosine 1-Phosphate as a Valuable Therapeutic Target
Authors: Cortini Margherita , Armirotti Andrea , Columbaro Marta , Longo Dario Livio , Di Pompo Gemma , Cannas Elena , Maresca Alessandra , Errani Costantino , Longhi Alessandra , Righi Alberto , Carelli Valerio , Baldini Nicola , Avnet Sofia
Published: January 2021

Acidity is a key player in cancer progression, modelling a microenvironment that prevents immune surveillance and enhances invasiveness, survival, and drug resistance. Here, we demonstrated in spheroids from osteosarcoma cell lines that the exposure to acidosis remarkably caused intracellular lipid droplets accumulation. Lipid accumulation was also detected in sarcoma tissues in close proximity to tumor area that express the acid-related biomarker LAMP2. Acid-induced lipid droplets-accumulation was not functional to a higher energetic request, but rather to cell survival. As a mechanism, we found increased levels of sphingomyelin and secretion of the sphingosine 1-phosphate, and the activation of the associated sphingolipid pathway and the non-canonical NF-ĸB pathway, respectively. Moreover, decreasing sphingosine 1-phosphate levels (S1P) by FTY720 (Fingolimod) impaired acid-induced tumor survival and migration. As a confirmation of the role of S1P in osteosarcoma, we found S1P high circulating levels (30.8 ± 2.5 nmol/mL, n = 17) in the serum of patients. Finally, when we treated osteosarcoma xenografts with FTY720 combined with low-serine/glycine diet, both lipid accumulation (as measured by magnetic resonance imaging) and tumor growth were greatly inhibited. For the first time, this study profiles the lipidomic rearrangement of sarcomas under acidic conditions, suggesting the use of anti-S1P strategies in combination with standard chemotherapy.
Thymic Hyperplasia with Lymphoepithelial Sialadenitis (LESA)-Like Features: Strong Association with Lymphomas and Non-Myasthenic Autoimmune Diseases
Authors: Porubsky Stefan , Popovic Zoran V. , Badve Sunil , Banz Yara , Berezowska Sabina , Borchert Dietmar , Brüggemann Monika , Gaiser Timo , Graeter Thomas , Hollaus Peter , Huettl Katrin S. , Kotrova Michaela , Kreft Andreas , Kugler Christian , Lötscher Fabian , Möller Burkhard , Ott German , Preissler Gerhard , Roessner Eric , Rosenwald Andreas , Ströbel Philipp , Marx Alexander
Published: January 2021

Thymic hyperplasia (TH) with lymphoepithelial sialadenitis (LESA)-like features (LESA-like TH) has been described as a tumor-like, benign proliferation of thymic epithelial cells and lymphoid follicles. We aimed to determine the frequency of lymphoma and autoimmunity in LESA-like TH and performed retrospective analysis of cases with LESA-like TH and/or thymic MALT-lymphoma. Among 36 patients (21 males) with LESA-like TH (age 52 years, 32–80; lesion diameter 7.0 cm, 1–14.5; median, range), five (14%) showed associated lymphomas, including four (11%) thymic MALT lymphomas and one (3%) diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. One additional case showed a clonal B-cell-receptor rearrangement without evidence of lymphoma. Twelve (33%) patients (7 women) suffered from partially overlapping autoimmune diseases: systemic lupus erythematosus (n = 4, 11%), rheumatoid arthritis (n = 3, 8%), myasthenia gravis (n = 2, 6%), asthma (n = 2, 6%), scleroderma, Sjögren syndrome, pure red cell aplasia, Grave’s disease and anti-IgLON5 syndrome (each n = 1, 3%). Among 11 primary thymic MALT lymphomas, remnants of LESA-like TH were found in two cases (18%). In summary, LESA-like TH shows a striking association with autoimmunity and predisposes to lymphomas. Thus, a hematologic and rheumatologic workup should become standard in patients diagnosed with LESA-like TH. Radiologists and clinicians should be aware of LESA-like TH as a differential diagnosis for mediastinal mass lesions in patients with autoimmune diseases.
The Hippo Signaling Pathway in Drug Resistance in Cancer
Authors: Zeng Renya , Dong Jixin
Published: January 2021

Chemotherapy represents one of the most efficacious strategies to treat cancer patients, bringing advantageous changes at least temporarily even to those patients with incurable malignancies. However, most patients respond poorly after a certain number of cycles of treatment due to the development of drug resistance. Resistance to drugs administrated to cancer patients greatly limits the benefits that patients can achieve and continues to be a severe clinical difficulty. Among the mechanisms which have been uncovered to mediate anti-cancer drug resistance, the Hippo signaling pathway is gaining increasing attention due to the remarkable oncogenic activities of its components (for example, YAP and TAZ) and their druggable properties. This review will highlight current understanding of how the Hippo signaling pathway regulates anti-cancer drug resistance in tumor cells, and currently available pharmacological interventions targeting the Hippo pathway to eradicate malignant cells and potentially treat cancer patients.
The Match between Molecular Subtypes, Histology and Microenvironment of Pancreatic Cancer and Its Relevance for Chemoresistance
Authors: Martinez-Useros Javier , Martin-Galan Mario , Garcia-Foncillas Jesus
Published: January 2021

In the last decade, several studies based on whole transcriptomic and genomic analyses of pancreatic tumors and their stroma have come to light to supplement histopathological stratification of pancreatic cancers with a molecular point-of-view. Three main molecular studies: Collisson et al. 2011, Moffitt et al. 2015 and Bailey et al. 2016 have found specific gene signatures, which identify different molecular subtypes of pancreatic cancer and provide a comprehensive stratification for both a personalized treatment or to identify potential druggable targets. However, the routine clinical management of pancreatic cancer does not consider a broad molecular analysis of each patient, due probably to the lack of target therapies for this tumor. Therefore, the current treatment decision is taken based on patients´ clinicopathological features and performance status. Histopathological evaluation of tumor samples could reveal many other attributes not only from tumor cells but also from their microenvironment specially about the presence of pancreatic stellate cells, regulatory T cells, tumor-associated macrophages, myeloid derived suppressor cells and extracellular matrix structure. In the present article, we revise the four molecular subtypes proposed by Bailey et al. and associate each subtype with other reported molecular subtypes. Moreover, we provide for each subtype a potential description of the tumor microenvironment that may influence treatment response according to the gene expression profile, the mutational landscape and their associated histology.