bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Leveraging a Heterogeneous Ensemble Learning for Outcome-Based Predictive Monitoring Using Business Process Event Logs
Authors: Tama Bayu Adhi , Comuzzi Marco
Published: August 2022

Outcome-based predictive process monitoring concerns predicting the outcome of a running process case using historical events stored as so-called process event logs. This prediction problem has been approached using different learning models in the literature. Ensemble learners have been shown to be particularly effective in outcome-based business process predictive monitoring, even when compared with learners exploiting complex deep learning architectures. However, the ensemble learners that have been used in the literature rely on weak base learners, such as decision trees. In this article, an advanced stacking ensemble technique for outcome-based predictive monitoring is introduced. The proposed stacking ensemble employs strong learners as base classifiers, i.e., other ensembles. More specifically, we consider stacking of random forests, extreme gradient boosting machines, and gradient boosting machines to train a process outcome prediction model. We evaluate the proposed approach using publicly available event logs. The results show that the proposed model is a promising approach for the outcome-based prediction task. We extensively compare the performance differences among the proposed methods and the base strong learners, using also statistical tests to prove the generalizability of the results obtained.
Blockchain-Assisted Adaptive Reconfiguration Method for Trusted UAV Network
Authors: Kong Lingjun , Chen Bing , Hu Feng
Published: August 2022

Due to the high mobility of nodes and the complexity of the mission environment, mission-oriented UAV networks are not only subject to frequent topology changes, but also to the risk of being compromised, hijacked and corrupted. As a result, an operating UAV network is essentially a Byzantine distributed system whose physical structure and node trustworthiness change over time. How to implement the global management of UAV networks to achieve a rational allocation of UAV network resources and reconfiguration of trusted networks is a problem worthy of in-depth study. The method proposed in this paper introduces a lightweight storage blockchain in the UAV network through two-stage consensus, firstly performing data consensus on the local state records of the nodes, then performing decision consensus on the data consensus results using algorithms such as fuzzy K-Modes clustering and global trustworthiness assessment, and finally recording the decision consensus results into a new block as the new configuration information of the UAV network. A lightweight storage blockchain-assisted trusted zone routing protocol (BC_TZRP) is designed to dynamically and adaptively build configurable trusted networks in a way that the blockchain continuously adds new blocks. Using QualNet simulation experimental software, an experimental comparison between the classical routing protocol for mobile self-organizing networks and the traditional consensus algorithm for blockchains is conducted. The results show that the approach has significant advantages in terms of packet delivery rate, routing overhead and average end-to-end delay, and can effectively improve the overall working life and fault tolerance of the UAV network.
Optimization of Biodiesel and Biofuel Process
Authors: Luna Diego , Estevez Rafael
Published: August 2022

Currently in the European Union (EU) there is an intense debate on the limits to acquire the European Green Deal, to make Europe the first climate neutral continent in the world [...]
FBM-CSoC Control and Management System for Multi-Port Converter Applied in Hybrid Energy Storage System Used in Microgrid
Authors: Cantane Daniel Augusto , Tavares Junior Adalberto Teogenes , Isernhagen Ediane Karine Scherer , Busti Nathalie Danree , Rospirski Alexsandra , Jahn Tales Gottlieb , de Oliveira Fernando Marcos
Published: August 2022

Several management and control techniques for hybrid energy storage systems (HESS) with batteries and supercapacitors are presented in the literature applied to microgrids (MGs). The filter-based control strategy for defining the control loop actuation is one of the most widely used approaches with satisfactory performance. Variations of the Filter-Based Method (FBM) method are proposed to improve the control efficiency of the HESS under load disturbance and intermittent generator sources. However, not enough attention has been paid to the impacts of MG on the operational performance of batteries, despite the fact that they represent a non-negligible percentage of the total cost of MGs. In this paper, a control strategy called FBM-CSoC is proposed that focuses primarily on mitigating battery safety and degradation issues. The control strategy proposes a distribution of the charging and discharging current in a weighted proportional way to the normalized rated capacity and current state of charge (SoC) of each battery in the MG. This control strategy favors both the reduction of the internal temperature variation of the cells and the possibility of them operating in overcharging or over-discharging conditions. A comparative case study between the traditional FBM method and the FBM-CSoC, by means of numerical simulations, demonstrated that the load distribution occurs satisfactorily in energy storage systems. Finally, the FBM-CSoC method can be flexibly used for different types of battery technology and/or batteries with different SoCs integrated with supercapacitors.
Evolutionary Perspective on Improving Mental Health
Authors: Grinde Bjørn
Published: August 2022

Mental issues are by many considered the main challenge for health authorities in industrialized nations. In this entry, I discuss an approach that may prove useful for ameliorating the situation and thereby improving quality of life. The analysis uses an understanding of the brain based on evolution and neurobiology, so consequently the ideas presented differ somewhat from traditional psychological thinking. Briefly, it appears likely that the problems with psychopathology are partly due to a lifestyle at odds with human nature. The key for finding preventive measures then is to identify the contributing mismatches. Based on the present perspective, therapeutic interventions can be construed as altering the brain by exercising functions that ought to be strengthened. By understanding brain plasticity, and the functions that are likely to need improvement in relation to mental health, we stand a better chance at devising interventions that work.
The Implications of Composite Dark Purple Rice Malt on Phenolic Acid Profiles, 4-Vinyl Guaiacol Reduction and Enhancing the Antioxidation of Beer
Authors: Gonu Hellie , Withayagiat Ulaiwan
Published: August 2022

This study highlights the dynamics of phenolic acids, antioxidation, and 4-vinylguaiacol in beer produced with dark purple rice malt, also known as Riceberry rice malt, as an adjunct and base malt. Riceberry rice malt substituted barley malt at 40% (w/w), 60% (w/w), 80% (w/w), and 100% (w/w) with 100% (w/w) barley malt as the control. Two types of ale beer were produced with two yeasts, designated as POF− and POF+. The wort produced with the Riceberry rice malt had higher anthocyanin and vanillic acids relative to all barley malt wort. Fermentation and beer maturation reduced phenolic acids and antioxidant activity in all treatment. Nevertheless, beer produced from 40% (w/w)–80% (w/w) Riceberry rice malt maintained higher p-coumaric acid, vanillic acid, anthocyanin, and antioxidant activity in beers with lower 4-vinylguaiacol relative to all barley malt beer, which also had higher ferulic acid and sinapic acid contents. The beers made from POF+ yeast contained more 4-vinylguaiacol contents than those found in beers made from POF− yeasts. This study suggests that Riceberry rice malt or POF− yeast are suitable raw materials for phenolic acid off-flavour reduction and the stabilisation of antioxidant activity in beer.
The Behaviour of Water-Mists in Hot Air Induced by a Room Fire: Effect of the Initial Size of Droplets
Authors: Mahmud H. M. Iqbal , Thorpe Graham , Moinuddin Khalid A. M.
Published: August 2022

This paper presents work on investigating the effect of the initial size of water mist droplets on the evaporation and removal of heat from the fire-induced hot gas layer while travelling through the air in a compartment. The histories of the temperature, diameter and position of droplets with different initial diameters (varied from 100 µm to 1000 µm) are determined considering surrounding air temperatures of 75 °C and 150 °C and a room height of 3.0 m. A water droplet evaporation model (WDEM) developed in a previous study (Fire and Materials 2016; 40:190–205) is employed to navigate this work. The study reveals that tiny droplets (for example, 100 µm) have disappeared within a very short time due to evaporation and travelled a very small distance from the spray nozzle because of their tiny size. In contrast, droplets with a larger diameter (for example, 1000 µm) reached the floor with much less evaporation. In the case of this study, the relative tiny droplets (≤200 µm) have absorbed the highest amount of energy from their surroundings due to their complete evaporation, whereas the larger droplets have extracted less energy due to their smaller area/volume ratios, and their traverse times are shorter. One of the key findings of this study is that the smaller droplets of spray effectively cool the environment due to their rapid evaporation and extraction of heat from the surroundings, and the larger droplets are effective in traversing the hot air or smoke layer and reaching the floor of the compartment in a fire environment. The findings of this study might help in understanding the behaviour of water-mist droplets with different initial diameters in designing a water-mist nozzle.
Paying for the Greater Good?—What Information Matters for Beijing Consumers’ Willingness to Pay for Plant-Based Meat?
Authors: Wang Hongsha , Chen Qihui , Zhu Chen , Bao Jiale
Published: August 2022

Promoting the transition from animal meat to plant-based food consumption has significant benefits for public health and environmental sustainability. This study, involving 526 consumers from Beijing, China, explores how food attributes and information may affect consumers’ food choices concerning plant-based meat products. A discrete choice experiment was conducted using burgers with five attributes (meat patties, flavor, sodium content, energy, and price) as the focal product. Separate messages on nutrition, food safety, and the environmental issues related to plant-based meat consumption were also randomly provided to consumers to help examine the role of information. Our findings suggest that Beijing consumers’ awareness of plant-based meat is relatively low at present, and they show a negative preference toward plant-based meat consumption relative to that of conventional meat. However, consumers’ willingness to pay for plant-based meat significantly increased after nutrition information was provided, but it was not responsive to the provision of food safety or environmental information. These findings suggest that to promote plant-based meat consumption, information closely related to consumers’ personal interests rather the “greater good” should be provided, at least in the context of Beijing, China.
Socio-Economic and Demographic Factors Associated with Knowledge and Attitude of HIV/AIDS among Women Aged 15–49 Years Old in Indonesia
Authors: Virdausi Feny Deya , Efendi Ferry , Kusumaningrum Tiyas , Adnani Qorinah Estiningtyas Sakilah , McKenna Lisa , Ramadhan Kadar , Susanti Ika Adelia
Published: August 2022

Women’s susceptibility to HIV/AIDS infection is related to socio-economic and demographic factors. This study sought to analyze socio-economic and demographic factors related to knowledge and attitude of HIV/AIDS among women aged 15–49 years old in Indonesia. We conducted a secondary data analysis using the 2017 Indonesian Demographic and Health Survey (IDHS). Among 49,627 women, our study analyzed 25,895 women aged 15–49 years familiar with HIV terminology. Multiple logistic regression was utilized to analyze associations between socio-economic and demographic factors with knowledge and attitudes toward HIV/AIDS. Women’s age, education level, wealth quintile, residential area and region, access to information, owning cell phones and autonomy were significantly associated with positive knowledge and attitudes toward HIV/AIDS. These findings revealed that several demographical and social factors contribute to knowledge and attitudes toward HIV/AIDS among women aged 15–49 years in Indonesia.
The Era of Genomic Research for Lymphoma: Looking Back and Forward
Authors: Chan Wing C. , Iqbal Javeed
Published: August 2022

Technological and informatics advances as well as the availability of well-annotated and reliable genomic data have ushered in the era of genomics research. We describe in this brief review how the genomics approach has impacted lymphoma research in the understanding of the pathogenesis and biology of lymphoma, in lymphoma diagnosis and in targeted therapy. Some exciting directions that could be explored in the future are also discussed.
Rapid Colorimetric Detection of Wound Infection with a Fluidic Paper Device
Authors: Hoyo Javier , Bassegoda Arnau , Ferreres Guillem , Hinojosa-Caballero Dolores , Gutiérrez-Capitán Manuel , Baldi Antoni , Fernández-Sánchez César , Tzanov Tzanko
Published: August 2022

Current procedures for the assessment of chronic wound infection are time-consuming and require complex instruments and trained personnel. The incidence of chronic wounds worldwide, and the associated economic burden, urge for simple and cheap point-of-care testing (PoCT) devices for fast on-site diagnosis to enable appropriate early treatment. The enzyme myeloperoxidase (MPO), whose activity in infected wounds is about ten times higher than in non-infected wounds, appears to be a suitable biomarker for wound infection diagnosis. Herein, we develop a single-component foldable paper-based device for the detection of MPO in wound fluids. The analyte detection is achieved in two steps: (i) selective immunocapture of MPO, and (ii) reaction of a specific dye with the captured MPO, yielding a purple color with increasing intensity as a function of the MPO activity in infected wounds in the range of 20–85 U/mL. Ex vivo experiments with wound fluids validated the analytic efficiency of the paper-based device, and the results strongly correlate with a spectrophotometric assay.
Metformin Mitigated Obesity-Driven Cancer Aggressiveness in Tumor-Bearing Mice
Authors: Chen Chun-Jung , Wu Chih-Cheng , Chang Cheng-Yi , Li Jian-Ri , Ou Yen-Chuan , Chen Wen-Ying , Liao Su-Lan , Wang Jiaan-Der
Published: August 2022

Metformin may offer benefits to certain cancer populations experiencing metabolic abnormalities. To extend the anticancer studies of metformin, a tumor model was established through the implantation of murine Lewis Lung Carcinoma (LLC) cells to Normal Diet (ND)-fed and High-Fat Diet (HFD)-fed C57BL/6 mice. The HFD-fed mice displayed metabolic and pro-inflammatory alterations together with accompanying aggressive tumor growth. Metformin mitigated tumor growth in HFD-fed mice, paralleled by reductions in circulating glucose, insulin, soluble P-selectin, TGF-β1 and High Mobility Group Box-1 (HMGB1), as well as tumor expression of cell proliferation, aerobic glycolysis, glutaminolysis, platelets and neutrophils molecules. The suppressive effects of metformin on cell proliferation, migration and oncogenic signaling molecules were confirmed in cell study. Moreover, tumor-bearing HFD-fed mice had higher contents of circulating and tumor immunopositivity of Neutrophil Extracellular Traps (NETs)-associated molecules, with a suppressive effect from metformin. Data taken from neutrophil studies confirmed the inhibitory effect that metformin has on NET formation induced by HMGB1. Furthermore, HMGB1 was identified as a promoting molecule to boost the transition process towards NETs. The current study shows that metabolic, pro-inflammatory and NET alterations appear to play roles in the obesity-driven aggressiveness of cancer, while also representing candidate targets for anticancer potential of metformin.
Nutrition as Personalized Medicine against SARS-CoV-2 Infections: Clinical and Oncological Options with a Specific Female Groups Overview
Authors: Dellino Miriam , Cascardi Eliano , Vinciguerra Marina , Lamanna Bruno , Malvasi Antonio , Scacco Salvatore , Acquaviva Silvia , Pinto Vincenzo , Di Vagno Giovanni , Cormio Gennaro , De Luca Raffaele , Lafranceschina Miria , Cazzato Gerardo , Ingravallo Giuseppe , Maiorano Eugenio , Resta Leonardo , Daniele Antonella , La Forgia Daniele
Published: August 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). It is acknowledged that vulnerable people can suffer from mortal complications of COVID-19. Therefore, strengthening the immune system particularly in the most fragile people could help to protect them from infection. First, general nutritional status and food consumption patterns of everyone affect the effectiveness of each immune system. The effects of nutrition could impact the level of intestinal and genital microbiota, the adaptive immune system, and the innate immune system. Indeed, immune system cells and mediators, which are crucial to inflammatory reaction, are in the structures of fats, carbohydrates, and proteins and are activated through vitamins (vit) and minerals. Therefore, the association of malnutrition and infection could damage the immune response, reducing the immune cells and amplifying inflammatory mediators. Both amount and type of dietary fat impact on cytokine biology, that consequently assumes a crucial role in inflammatory disease. This review explores the power of nutrition in the immune response against COVID-19 infection, since a specific diet could modify the cytokine storm during the infection phase. This can be of vital importance in the most vulnerable subjects such as pregnant women or cancer patients to whom we have deemed it necessary to dedicate personalized indications.
An Association Study of DNA Methylation and Gene Expression in Angelman Syndrome: A Bioinformatics Approach
Authors: Panov Julia , Kaphzan Hanoch
Published: August 2022

Angelman syndrome (AS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by the loss of function of the E3-ligase UBE3A. Despite multiple studies, AS pathophysiology is still obscure and has mostly been explored in rodent models of the disease. In recent years, a growing body of studies has utilized omics datasets in the attempt to focus research regarding the pathophysiology of AS. Here, for the first time, we utilized a multi-omics approach at the epigenomic level and the transcriptome level, for human-derived neurons. Using publicly available datasets for DNA methylation and gene expression, we found genome regions in proximity to gene promoters and intersecting with gene-body regions that were differentially methylated and differentially expressed in AS. We found that overall, the genome in AS postmortem brain tissue was hypo-methylated compared to healthy controls. We also found more upregulated genes than downregulated genes in AS. Many of these dysregulated genes in neurons obtained from AS patients are known to be critical for neuronal development and synaptic functioning. Taken together, our results suggest a list of dysregulated genes that may be involved in AS development and its pathological features. Moreover, these genes might also have a role in neurodevelopmental disorders similar to AS.
Plasma Microbiome in COVID-19 Subjects: An Indicator of Gut Barrier Defects and Dysbiosis
Authors: Prasad Ram , Patton Michael John , Floyd Jason Levi. , Fortmann Seth , DuPont Mariana , Harbour Angela , Wright Justin , Lamendella Regina , Stevens Bruce R. , Oudit Gavin Y. , Grant Maria B.
Published: August 2022

The gut is a well-established route of infection and target for viral damage by SARS-CoV-2. This is supported by the clinical observation that about half of COVID-19 patients exhibit gastrointestinal (GI) complications. We aimed to investigate whether the analysis of plasma could provide insight into gut barrier dysfunction in patients with COVID-19 infection. Plasma samples of COVID-19 patients (n = 146) and healthy individuals (n = 47) were collected during hospitalization and routine visits. Plasma microbiome was analyzed using 16S rRNA sequencing and gut permeability markers including fatty acid binding protein 2 (FABP2), peptidoglycan (PGN), and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in both patient cohorts. Plasma samples of both cohorts contained predominately Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Bacteroides, and Actinobacteria. COVID-19 subjects exhibit significant dysbiosis (p = 0.001) of the plasma microbiome with increased abundance of Actinobacteria spp. (p = 0.0332), decreased abundance of Bacteroides spp. (p = 0.0003), and an increased Firmicutes:Bacteroidetes ratio (p = 0.0003) compared to healthy subjects. The concentration of the plasma gut permeability marker FABP2 (p = 0.0013) and the gut microbial antigens PGN (p < 0.0001) and LPS (p = 0.0049) were significantly elevated in COVID-19 patients compared to healthy subjects. These findings support the notion that the intestine may represent a source for bacteremia and contribute to worsening COVID-19 outcomes. Therapies targeting the gut and prevention of gut barrier defects may represent a strategy to improve outcomes in COVID-19 patients.
Finite Time Thermodynamic Modeling and Performance Analysis of High-Temperature Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells
Authors: Li Dongxu , Ma Zheshu , Shao Wei , Li Yanju , Guo Xinjia
Published: August 2022

In order to improve the output performance of high-temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cells (HT-PEMFC), a finite time thermodynamic (FTT) model for HT-PEMFC was established. Several finite time thermodynamic indexes including power density, thermodynamic efficiency, exergy efficiency, exergetic performance efficient (EPC), entropy production rate and ecological coefficient of performance (ECOP) were derived. The energetic performance, exergetic performance and ecological performance of the HT-PEMFC were analyzed under different parameters. Results showed that operating temperature, doping level and thickness of membrane had a significant effect on the performance of HT-PEMFC and the power density increased by 58%, 31.1% and 44.9%, respectively. When the doping level reached 8, the output performance of HT-PEMFC wa optimal. The operating pressure and relative humidity had little influence on the HT-PEMFC and the power density increased by 8.7%% and 17.6%, respectively.
Sepsis and Acute Kidney Injury: A Review Focusing on the Bidirectional Interplay
Authors: Chang Yu-Ming , Chou Yu-Ting , Kan Wei-Chih , Shiao Chih-Chung
Published: August 2022

Although sepsis and acute kidney injury (AKI) have a bidirectional interplay, the pathophysiological mechanisms between AKI and sepsis are not clarified and worthy of a comprehensive and updated review. The primary pathophysiology of sepsis-associated AKI (SA-AKI) includes inflammatory cascade, macrovascular and microvascular dysfunction, cell cycle arrest, and apoptosis. The pathophysiology of sepsis following AKI contains fluid overload, hyperinflammatory state, immunosuppression, and infection associated with kidney replacement therapy and catheter cannulation. The preventive strategies for SA-AKI are non-specific, mainly focusing on infection control and preventing further kidney insults. On the other hand, the preventive strategies for sepsis following AKI might focus on decreasing some metabolites, cytokines, or molecules harmful to our immunity, supplementing vitamin D3 for its immunomodulation effect, and avoiding fluid overload and unnecessary catheter cannulation. To date, several limitations persistently prohibit the understanding of the bidirectional pathophysiologies. Conducting studies, such as the Kidney Precision Medicine Project, to investigate human kidney tissue and establishing parameters or scores better to determine the occurrence timing of sepsis and AKI and the definition of SA-AKI might be the prospects to unveil the mystery and improve the prognoses of AKI patients.
Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Neutral Sphingomyelinase 2 in the Release of Exosomes and Vascular Calcification
Authors: Pavlic Angelina , Bahram Sangani Nasim , Kerins Johanna , Nicolaes Gerry , Schurgers Leon , Reutelingsperger Chris
Published: August 2022

Vascular calcification (VC) is the pathological precipitation of calcium salts in the walls of blood vessels. It is a risk factor for cardiovascular events and their associated mortality. VC can be observed in a variety of cardiovascular diseases and is most prominent in diseases that are associated with dysregulated mineral homeostasis such as in chronic kidney disease. Local factors and mechanisms underlying VC are still incompletely understood, but it is appreciated that VC is a multifactorial process in which vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) play an important role. VSMCs participate in VC by releasing extracellular vesicles (EVs), the extent, composition, and propensity to calcify of which depend on VSMC phenotype and microenvironment. Currently, no targeted therapy is available to treat VC. In-depth knowledge of molecular players of EV release and the understanding of their mechanisms constitute a vital foundation for the design of pharmacological treatments to combat VC effectively. This review highlights our current knowledge of VSMCs in VC and focuses on the biogenesis of exosomes and the role of the neutral Sphingomyelinase 2 (nSMase2).
Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Immunological Tolerance in Monocyte-Derived Dendritic Cells
Authors: Mbongue Jacques C. , Vanterpool Elaine , Firek Anthony , Langridge William H. R.
Published: August 2022

Bacterial lipopolysaccharides (LPS), also referred to as endotoxins, are major outer surface membrane components present on almost all Gram-negative bacteria and are major determinants of sepsis-related clinical complications including septic shock. LPS acts as a strong stimulator of innate or natural immunity in a wide variety of eukaryotic species ranging from insects to humans including specific effects on the adaptive immune system. However, following immune stimulation, lipopolysaccharide can induce tolerance which is an essential immune-homeostatic response that prevents overactivation of the inflammatory response. The tolerance induced by LPS is a state of reduced immune responsiveness due to persistent and repeated challenges, resulting in decreased expression of pro-inflammatory modulators and up-regulation of antimicrobials and other mediators that promote a reduction of inflammation. The presence of environmental-derived LPS may play a key role in decreasing autoimmune diseases and gut tolerance to the plethora of ingested antigens. The use of LPS may be an important immune adjuvant as demonstrated by the promotion of IDO1 increase when present in the fusion protein complex of CTB-INS (a chimera of the cholera toxin B subunit linked to proinsulin) that inhibits human monocyte-derived DC (moDC) activation, which may act through an IDO1-dependent pathway. The resultant state of DC tolerance can be further enhanced by the presence of residual E. coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS) which is almost always present in partially purified CTB-INS preparations. The approach to using an adjuvant with an autoantigen in immunotherapy promises effective treatment for devastating tissue-specific autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis (MS) and type 1 diabetes (T1D).
Fertility-Sparing Management May Be Considered in Young Women with Uterine Sarcoma
Authors: Piątek Szymon , Szymusik Iwona , Dańska-Bidzińska Anna , Ołtarzewski Mariusz , Trojan Gabriela , Bidziński Mariusz
Published: August 2022

Uterine sarcomas occur very rarely in young women. Hysterectomy, which is a standard treatment, may not be acceptable for those patients, especially nulliparous women. Fertility-sparing management may be an alternative. The aim of the study was to assess fertility-sparing management in patients with uterine sarcoma. Eleven patients were eligible for the study. Histopathologic types of the tumor included: adenosarcoma (n = 3), low-grade endometrial stromal sarcoma (n = 3), low-grade myofibroblastic sarcoma (n = 1), leiomyosarcoma (n = 1), leiomyosarcoma myxoides (n = 1), rhabdomyosarcoma (n = 1), high grade endometrial stromal sarcoma (n = 1). The mean age of the patients at the time of diagnosis was 27.4 years (range: 17–35) and the average follow-up 61 months (range: 12–158). Six patients received adjuvant treatment: megestrol (n = 5) and chemotherapy (n = 1). Recurrence was diagnosed in five cases. Median time to recurrence was 35 months (range: 8–90). Three patients conceived spontaneously following treatment and gave at least one live birth. In total, five full-term pregnancies were recorded and five healthy children were born. Fertility-sparing management may be considered in some patients with uterine sarcoma; however, it may not be appropriate in high-grade endometrial stromal sarcoma. Patients with adenosarcoma may have a low chance of childbearing.
Medium and Long-Term Outcome of Superselective Transcatheter Arterial Embolization with Lipiodol–Bleomycin Emulsion for Giant Hepatic Hemangiomas: Results in 241 Patients
Authors: Yuan Bing , Zhang Jin-Long , Duan Feng , Wang Mao-Qiang
Published: August 2022

Purpose: To evaluate the medium and long-term efficacy of superselective transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) with lipiodol–bleomycin emulsions (LBE) for giant hepatic hemangiomas. Methods: A total of 241 patients who had underwent TAE with LBE for hepatic hemangiomas from January 2010 to December 2016 were retrospectively reviewed. Blood tests were performed 3 and 7 days after TAE and procedural-related complications were recorded. The patients were followed up by enhanced CT or MRI imaging at 6, 12, 36, and 60 months post-TAE, respectively. Technical success of TAE was defined as successful embolization of all identifiable arteries supplying to the hemangiomas. Clinical success was defined as improvement of the abdominal symptoms and indications on the imaging examinations that the hemangiomas had decreased by more than 50% in maximum diameter. Results: TAE was performed successfully in all patients without serious complications. Improvement of the abdominal symptoms was recorded in 102/102 cases (100%). The reduction rate of the tumor maximum diameter with >50% at 6, 12, 36, and 60 months was 88.1% (190/210), 86.7% (170/196), 85.2% (124/142), and 86.5% (45/52), respectively. There was a significant change from pre-TAE to follow-up values in maximum diameter (p < 0.05). Conclusion: TAE with LBE was feasible and effective for giant hepatic hemangiomas. The reductions of the tumor maximum diameter with >50% at medium (≥3 years) and long-term (≥5 years) follow-up were satisfactory, with 85.2% and 86.5%, respectively.
Management of Preschool Wheezing: Guideline from the Emilia-Romagna Asthma (ERA) Study Group
Authors: Fainardi Valentina , Caffarelli Carlo , Deolmi Michela , Skenderaj Kaltra , Meoli Aniello , Morini Riccardo , Bergamini Barbara Maria , Bertelli Luca , Biserna Loretta , Bottau Paolo , Corinaldesi Elena , De Paulis Nicoletta , Dondi Arianna , Guidi Battista , Lombardi Francesca , Magistrali Maria Sole , Marastoni Elisabetta , Pastorelli Silvia , Piccorossi Alessandra , Poloni Maurizio , Tagliati Sylvie , Vaienti Francesca , Gregori Giuseppe , Sacchetti Roberto , Mari Sandra , Musetti Manuela , Antodaro Francesco , Bergomi Andrea , Reggiani Lamberto , Caramelli Fabio , De Fanti Alessandro , Marchetti Federico , Ricci Giampaolo , Esposito Susanna
Published: August 2022

Preschool wheezing should be considered an umbrella term for distinctive diseases with different observable and measurable phenotypes. Despite many efforts, there is a large gap in knowledge regarding management of preschool wheezing. In order to fill this lack of knowledge, the aim of these guidelines was to define management of wheezing disorders in preschool children (aged up to 5 years). A multidisciplinary panel of experts of the Emilia-Romagna Region, Italy, addressed twelve different key questions regarding the management of preschool wheezing. Clinical questions have been formulated by the expert panel using the PICO format (Patients, Intervention, Comparison, Outcomes) and systematic reviews have been conducted on PubMed to answer these specific questions, with the aim of formulating recommendations. The GRADE approach has been used for each selected paper, to assess the quality of the evidence and the degree of recommendations. These guidelines represent, in our opinion, the most complete and up-to-date collection of recommendations on preschool wheezing to guide pediatricians in the management of their patients, standardizing approaches. Undoubtedly, more research is needed to find objective biomarkers and understand underlying mechanisms to assess phenotype and endotype and to personalize targeted treatment.
Postoperative Outcomes and Reinterventions Following Fenestrated/Branched Endovascular Aortic Repair in Post-Dissection and Complex Degenerative Abdominal and Thoraco-Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms
Authors: Benfor Bright , Högl Julia , Gouveia e Melo Ryan , Stana Jan , Prendes Carlota Fernandez , Pichlmaier Maximilian , Rantner Barbara , Tsilimparis Nikolaos
Published: August 2022

Background: The outcome of FBEVAR in post-dissection thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms has not been well established in the literature. The aim of this study was to compare midterm outcomes following FBEVAR in post-dissection aneurysms to degenerative aneurysms. (2) Methods: This was a retrospective review of all patients undergoing FBEVAR in a single center between 2017 and 2020. The baseline characteristics, intraoperative details, and postoperative outcomes of patients with post-dissection aneurysms were compared to those with degenerative outcomes. The primary end point was unplanned reinterventions. Cox regression analysis was performed to identify the determinants of worse outcomes. Results: A total of 137 subjects with a mean age of 70 ± 10 years were included in the study, out of which 30 presented post-dissection aneurysms (22%). Custom-made devices were employed in 119 patients, off-the-shelf devices in 13 and physician-modified endografts in 5, with incorporation in 505 target vessels. The technical success rate was comparable in both groups (97% vs. 98%, p = 0.21). However, the one-year freedom from unplanned reintervention was lower in the post-dissection group (67% vs. 89%, p = 0.011). Conclusion: FBEVAR in post-dissection aneurysms is associated with a favorable technical success rate, but reintervention rates remain high. Long procedural duration and the use of adjunctive techniques are associated with increased risk of reinterventions.
Load-Bearing Capacities and Pseudo-Ductility of Carbon Fiber-Reinforced New Zealand Pine Timber Beams
Authors: Mlote Doreen Steven , Budig Michael
Published: August 2022

Building construction contributes a significant portion to the global consumption of energy and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and decarbonization has become one of the main targets. This has turned much attention to renewable materials, particularly timber construction. Wood is a natural composite, and it causes challenges in its natural state due to its mechanical properties and functionality, which has constrained its use in construction. Laminating wood sections into glue-laminated (glulam) and cross-laminated timber (CLT) components overcomes limitations in dimensions and inconsistencies in its properties. We went beyond these technologies and explored the potential of combining timber of the radiata pine species with synthetic fibers, aiming for hybrid natural–synthetic composite beams. This research illustrated various reinforcement mechanisms and analyzed their structural properties. The results from the experiments showed that carbon fiber-reinforced timber composites have up to 49% additional increase in load-bearing capacity compared to unreinforced beams. An identical amount of strain required less stress, and the composite portrayed a metal-like ductility property, a characteristic referred to as pseudo-ductility. It reduces the material consumption in beams through a more efficient use of materials, particularly around compression areas before tensile rupture. The resulting composites are sustainable yet structurally capable, contributing to the reduction in CO2 emissions in timber construction systems.
Electromagnetic Interference Shielding Effectiveness of Natural and Chlorobutyl Rubber Blend Nanocomposite
Authors: Muringayil Joseph Tomy , Mariya Hanna J. , Haponiuk Jozef T. , Thomas Sabu , Esmaeili Amin , Sajadi S. Mohammad
Published: August 2022

The science and technology of electrical equipment for communication experience a rapid growth rate. However, the unwanted interference of electromagnetic waves of different electronic devices brought serious anxiety about human health as well as the lifetime and performance of the systems. To combat these consequences, we need to lessen the electromagnetic wave emission by making our devices more noise-sensitive. Herein, we incorporated carbon nanotubes (CNTs) at different ratios into natural rubber (NR) and chlorobutyl rubber (CIIR) to achieve shielding efficiency, along with carbon nanofibers (CNFs), nanoclay (NC), and carbon black (CB) to manipulate EMI shielding performance. The blend of CIIR/NR in a 70/30 (w/w) ratio also mixed with CNT, CNF, CB and NC. The effect of different fillers and their concentration/combination was analyzed by UV spectroscopy, demonstrating an absorbance peak in CIIR in 320 nm. From FTIR spectroscopy, it was evident that CIIR/CNT (5 phr), NR (30 wt.%)/CIIR (70 wt.%)/CB (5 phr), and NR (30 wt.%)/CIIR (70 wt.%)/CNT (5 phr) new bonding signatures were detected. The dielectric spectroscopic analyses were reflected in dielectric loss, dielectric permittivity and AC conductivity, where NR (30 wt.%)/CIIR (70 wt.%)/CB (5 phr) blend nanocomposite with 5 dB showed significantly higher EMI shielding performance compared to CIIR/CNT (5 phr) and CIIR/CNF (5 phr) with 29 and 15 dB, respectively. The greater the concentration of nanofiller, the lower the electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding, i.e., CIIR/CNT (10 phr) with 15 dB (≈−48% dB), but with more agglomeration. Surprisingly, even a combination of fillers did not lead to higher EMI performance, such that CIIR/CNT (5 phr)-CB (20 phr) showed an EMI shielding value of 59 dB.
Morphological and Phylogenetic Analyses Reveal Four New Species of Acrodictys (Acrodictyaceae) in China
Authors: Wang Shi , Liu Rongyu , Liu Shubin , Zhang Zhaoxue , Xia Jiwen , Li Duhua , Liu Xiaoyong , Zhang Xiuguo
Published: August 2022

During our ongoing survey of dematiaceous hyphomycetes associated with dead branches in tropical forests, eight Acrodictys isolates were collected from Hainan, China. Morphology from the cultures and phylogeny based on partial small subunit (SSU), entire internal transcribed spacer regions with intervening 5.8S (ITS), partial large subunit (LSU) of rRNA gene, partial beta-tubulin (tub2), and partial RNA polymerase II second largest subunit (rpb2) genes were employed to identify these isolates. As a result, four new species, namely Acrodictys bawanglingensis sp. nov., A. diaoluoshanensis sp. nov., A. ellisii sp. nov., and A. pigmentosa sp. nov., are introduced. Illustrations and descriptions of the four taxa are provided, along with comparisons with closely related taxa in the genus. For facilitating relative studies, an updated key to all accepted species of this genus is also compiled.
The Effects of the COVID-19 “Infodemic” on Journalistic Content and News Feed in Online and Offline Communication Spaces
Authors: Kostarella Ioanna , Kotsakis Rigas
Published: August 2022

The systematic coverage of the coronavirus pandemic by the Greek mass media began in February 2020, specifically, from the time the virus made its appearance in the most significant way in Italy. Until then, news about the virus had been sporadically visible depending mainly on news reports coming from the international media and press agencies. The assessment of the COVID-19 pandemic as an “infodemic” by the World Health Organization (WHO) made obvious the need to study media coverage and map its patterns, along with the unprecedented political and social response and the massive consequences on the global economy. Through a large content analysis, containing 7457 news items from 13 different media outlets, plus a comparative Twitter analysis of 36,317 tweets, we took the present situation as an opportunity to collect real-time data but also as a point of departure for addressing issues connected to journalistic practices and technological changes in the framework of COVID-19. According to our findings, the Greek media faced the crisis “with a view to the world”, emphasizing international coverage, giving priority to the authorities and scientists, and keeping (at least in their majority) hoaxes and conspiracy theories out of the agenda.
Palaeoclimate Reconstruction of the Central Gangdise Mountains, Southern Tibetan Plateau, Based on Glacier Modelling
Authors: Jiang Zihan , Zhang Qian , Xu Hanyue , Wang Ninglian , Zhang Li , Capolongo Domenico
Published: August 2022

Palaeoglacier modelling is an important approach for reconstructing the palaeoclimate. The timing of glaciations in the central part of the Gangdise Mountains has been constrained previously, but the palaeoclimate remains unclear. In this paper, the palaeo-temperature and precipitation of the early marine isotope stage (MIS) 2, the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM), and the early Holocene were reconstructed using coupled mass balance and ice flow models. The results show that a series of temperature changes (ΔT) and precipitation factors (Fp) resulted in optimum palaeoglacial extents. The modelled palaeoglaciers during the early MIS 2, the LGM, and the early Holocene cover areas of ~18.1 km2, ~17.4 km2, and ~16.3 km2, respectively, with ice volumes of ~2.18 km3, ~1.99 km3, and ~1.95 km3, respectively. Previous studies on ice cores, pollen samples, and lake sediments were referenced to narrow the range of palaeo-temperatures and precipitations. The reconstructed temperatures during the early MIS 2, LGM, and early Holocene were constrained to 2.4–2.9 °C, 2.15–3.05 °C, and 0.95–1.5 °C lower than today, respectively. Their precipitation levels were 60–80%, 50–80%, and 100–150% of the present-day level, respectively.
Discerning Spatiotemporal Patterns and Policy Drivers of Rural Settlement Changes from 1962 to 2020
Authors: Cao Congjie , Song Wei
Published: August 2022

Despite two centuries of urbanisation worldwide, 45% of the world’s people still live in rural areas. Driven by urban development, the form and structure of rural settlements have undergone drastic changes. Reasonable planning according to the scale of the land and spatial layout of rural settlements is particularly important for the development of rural areas. The continuous development of the economy means that the housing needs of farmers and the macro policy background will inevitably change. We create a relationship curve for the “policy-scale of rural settlements” in different periods according to the laws of Maslow’s psychological demand theory and game theory and conduct an empirical study on Dingzhou City, China. The limited availability of remote sensing data means it is difficult to map the evolution patterns of rural settlements on medium and long time scales, and therefore, this paper explores and decrypts military satellite images, reveals the spatial evolution characteristics of rural settlements in Dingzhou, China from 1962 to 2020, and discusses the impact of policy factors on changes to rural settlements in different periods. The study found that from 1962 to 2020, the total area of rural settlements in Dingzhou showed a trend of continual increase, with a total increase of 8354.97 ha (73%). The average annual growth rates in 1962–1972, 1972–1990, 1990–2000, 2000–2010, and 2010–2020 were 0.29%, 1.17%, 1.81%, 1.26%, and 0.05%, respectively. The growth rate of rural settlements was relatively slow from 1962 to 1972. The policy was mainly because rural homesteads (land for building rural residences) were transformed from private ownership to “one homestead, two systems”, and the expansion of rural settlements was inhibited. From 1972 to 1990, with the deepening of reform and opening up, there was a boom in building houses in rural areas, and the growth rate of rural settlements increased. From 1990 to 2000, although the state strengthened the management of rural settlement use, there was still an increasing trend in the area of rural settlements; from 2000 to 2020 the implementation of policies such as “one house for one household" and “connecting increase and decrease" meant that the growth rate of rural settlements slowed.
Fast High-Order Algorithms for Electromagnetic Scattering Problem from Finite Array of Cavities in TE Case with High Wave Numbers
Authors: Zhao Meiling , He Jiahui , Zhu Na
Published: August 2022

In this paper, fast high-order finite difference algorithms for solving the electromagnetic scattering from the finite array of two-dimensional rectangular cavities are proposed in TE polarization. The scattering problem from the cavity array is described as coupled Helmholtz equations with transparent boundary conditions on open apertures. Second-order and fourth-order schemes for solving the coupled systems are developed in TE polarization respectively. A special technique is applied to construct a fourth-order scheme for transparent boundary conditions. Further, we propose fast algorithms which can simplify the larger global system to a small linear interface system on the apertures of cavities. Numerical experiments show the validity and efficiency of the proposed fast algorithms for solving the scattering problem with high wave numbers.
Fracture Recognition in Paediatric Wrist Radiographs: An Object Detection Approach
Authors: Hržić Franko , Tschauner Sebastian , Sorantin Erich , Štajduhar Ivan
Published: August 2022

Wrist fractures are commonly diagnosed using X-ray imaging, supplemented by magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography when required. Radiologists can sometimes overlook the fractures because they are difficult to spot. In contrast, some fractures can be easily spotted and only slow down the radiologists because of the reporting systems. We propose a machine learning model based on the YOLOv4 method that can help solve these issues. The rigorous testing on three levels showed that the YOLOv4-based model obtained significantly better results in comparison to the state-of-the-art method based on the U-Net model. In the comparison against five radiologists, YOLO 512 Anchor model-AI (the best performing YOLOv4-based model) was significantly better than the four radiologists (AI AUC-ROC =0.965, Radiologist average AUC-ROC =0.831±0.075). Furthermore, we have shown that three out of five radiologists significantly improved their performance when aided by the AI model. Finally, we compared our work with other related work and discussed what to consider when building an ML-based predictive model for wrist fracture detection. All our findings are based on a complex dataset of 19,700 pediatric X-ray images.