bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epigenetic and Genetic Factors Related to Curve Progression in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: A Systematic Scoping Review of the Current Literature
Authors: Faldini Cesare , Manzetti Marco , Neri Simona , Barile Francesca , Viroli Giovanni , Geraci Giuseppe , Ursini Francesco , Ruffilli Alberto
Published: May 2022

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a progressive deformity of the spine. Scoliotic curves progress until skeletal maturity leading, in rare cases, to a severe deformity. While the Cobb angle is a straightforward tool in initial curve magnitude measurement, assessing the risk of curve progression at the time of diagnosis may be more challenging. Epigenetic and genetic markers are potential prognostic tools to predict curve progression. The aim of this study is to review the available literature regarding the epigenetic and genetic factors associated with the risk of AIS curve progression. This review was carried out in accordance with Preferential Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The search was carried out in January 2022. Only peer-reviewed articles were considered for inclusion. Forty studies were included; fifteen genes were reported as having SNPs with significant association with progressive AIS, but none showed sufficient power to sustain clinical applications. In contrast, nine studies reporting epigenetic modifications showed promising results in terms of reliable markers. Prognostic testing for AIS has the potential to significantly modify disease management. Most recent evidence suggests epigenetics as a more promising field for the identification of factors associated with AIS progression, offering a rationale for further investigation in this field.
Human Omental Mesothelial Cells Impart an Immunomodulatory Landscape Impeding B- and T-Cell Activation
Authors: Gauthier Benoit R. , Rubio-Contreras Diana , Gómez-Rosado Juan Carlos , Capitán-Morales Luis Cristobal , Hmadcha Abdelkrim , Soria Bernat , Lachaud Christian Claude
Published: May 2022

Mesothelial cells form the mesothelium, a simple epithelium lining the walls of serous cavities and the surface of visceral organs. Although mesothelial cells are phenotypically well characterized, their immunoregulatory properties remain largely unknown, with only two studies reporting their capacity to inhibit T cells through TGF-β and their consumption of L-arginine by arginase-1. Whether human mesothelial cells can suppress other immune cells and possess additional leukosuppressive mechanisms, remain to be addressed to better delineate their therapeutic potential for cell therapy. Herein, we generated secretomes from omental mesothelial cells (OMC) and assess their capacity to inhibit lymphocytes proliferation, suppress activated T and B cells, as well as to modify macrophage activation markers. The secretome from mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) served as a control of immuno-suppression. Although OMC and MSC were phenotypically divergent, their cytokine secretion patterns as well as expression of inflammatory and immunomodulary genes were similar. As such, OMC- and MSC-derived secretomes (OMC-S and MSC-S) both polarized RAW 264.7 macrophages towards a M2-like anti-inflammatory phenotype and suppressed mouse and human lymphocytes proliferation. OMC-S displayed a strong ability to suppress mouse- and human-activated CD19+/CD25+ B cells as compared to MSC-S. The lymphosuppressive activity of the OMC-S could be significantly counteracted either by SB-431542, an inhibitor of TGFβ and activin signaling pathways, or with a monoclonal antibody against the TGFβ1, β2, and β3 isoforms. A strong blockade of the OMC-S-mediated lymphosuppressive activity was achieved using L-NMMA, a specific inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase (NOS). Taken together, our results suggest that OMC are potent immunomodulators.
Monoubiquitination in Homeostasis and Cancer
Authors: Chen Yujie , Zhou Dandan , Yao Yinan , Sun Yutong , Yao Fan , Ma Li
Published: May 2022

Monoubiquitination is a post-translational modification (PTM), through which a single ubiquitin molecule is covalently conjugated to a lysine residue of the target protein. Monoubiquitination regulates the activity, subcellular localization, protein–protein interactions, or endocytosis of the substrate. In doing so, monoubiquitination is implicated in diverse cellular processes, including gene transcription, endocytosis, signal transduction, cell death, and DNA damage repair, which in turn regulate cell-cycle progression, survival, proliferation, and stress response. In this review, we summarize the functions of monoubiquitination and discuss how this PTM modulates homeostasis and cancer.
Discovery of Novel 3-Hydroxyquinazoline-2,4(1H,3H)-Dione Derivatives: A Series of Metal Ion Chelators with Potent Anti-HCV Activities
Authors: Cao Yang , Aimaiti Abudumijiti , Zhu Zeyun , Zhou Lu , Ye Deyong
Published: May 2022

Millions of people worldwide suffer from acute or chronic liver inflammation caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). Metal ion chelators have achieved widespread success in the development of antiviral drugs. Some inhibitors with metal ion chelating structures have been proven to have good inhibitory activities on non-structural protein 5B (NS5B) polymerase. However, most of the reported metal ion chelators showed poor anti-HCV potency at the cellular level. Hence, we designed and synthesized a series of 3-hydroxyquinazoline-2,4(1H,3H)-dione derivatives with novel metal ion chelating structures. Typical compounds such as 21h, 21k, and 21t showed better anti-HCV activities than ribavirin with EC50 values less than 10 μM. 21t is currently known as one of the metal ion chelators with the best anti-HCV potency (EC50 = 2.0 μM) at the cellular level and has a better therapeutic index (TI > 25) as compared to ribavirin and the reported compound 6. In the thermal shift assay, the representative compounds 21e and 21k increased the melting temperature (Tm) of NS5B protein solution by 1.6 °C and 2.1 °C, respectively, at the test concentration, indicating that these compounds may exert an anti-HCV effect by targeting NS5B. This speculation was also supported by our molecular docking studies and ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectrophotometry assay, in which the possibility of binding of 3-hydroxyquinazoline-2,4(1H,3H)-diones with Mg2+ in the NS5B catalytic center was observed.
Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 3 Is Linked to VDAC1 Deubiquitination
Authors: Harmuth Tina , Weber Jonasz J. , Zimmer Anna J. , Sowa Anna S. , Schmidt Jana , Fitzgerald Julia C. , Schöls Ludger , Riess Olaf , Hübener-Schmid Jeannette
Published: May 2022

Dysfunctional mitochondria are linked to several neurodegenerative diseases. Metabolic defects, a symptom which can result from dysfunctional mitochondria, are also present in spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 (SCA3), also known as Machado–Joseph disease, the most frequent, dominantly inherited neurodegenerative ataxia worldwide. Mitochondrial dysfunction has been reported for several neurodegenerative disorders and ataxin-3 is known to deubiquitinylate parkin, a key protein required for canonical mitophagy. In this study, we analyzed mitochondrial function and mitophagy in a patient-derived SCA3 cell model. Human fibroblast lines isolated from SCA3 patients were immortalized and characterized. SCA3 patient fibroblasts revealed circular, ring-shaped mitochondria and featured reduced OXPHOS complexes, ATP production and cell viability. We show that wildtype ataxin-3 deubiquitinates VDAC1 (voltage-dependent anion channel 1), a member of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore and a parkin substrate. In SCA3 patients, VDAC1 deubiquitination and parkin recruitment to the depolarized mitochondria is inhibited. Increased p62-linked mitophagy, autophagosome formation and autophagy is observed under disease conditions, which is in line with mitochondrial fission. SCA3 fibroblast lines demonstrated a mitochondrial phenotype and dysregulation of parkin-VDAC1-mediated mitophagy, thereby promoting mitochondrial quality control via alternative pathways.
Contemporary Diagnosis and Management of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: The Role of Echocardiography and Multimodality Imaging
Authors: Kitai Takeshi , Xanthopoulos Andrew , Nakagawa Shoko , Ishii Natsuko , Amano Masashi , Triposkiadis Filippos , Izumi Chisato
Published: May 2022

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is an underdiagnosed genetic heart disease with an estimated prevalence of 0.2–0.5%. Although the prognosis of HCM is relatively good, with an annual general mortality of ~0.7%, some patients have an increased risk of sudden death, or of developing severe heart failure requiring heart transplantation or left ventricular (LV) assist device therapy. Therefore, earlier diagnosis and proper identification of high-risk patients may reduce disease-related morbidity/mortality by promoting timely treatment. Echocardiography is the primary imaging modality for patients with suspected HCM; it plays central roles in differential diagnosis from other causes of LV hypertrophy and in evaluating morphology, hemodynamic disturbances, LV function, and associated valvular disease. Echocardiography is also an essential tool for the continuous clinical management of patients with confirmed HCM. Other imaging modalities, such as cardiac computed tomography (CT) and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), can supplement echocardiography in identifying high-risk as well as milder HCM phenotypes. The role of such multimodality imaging has been steadily expanding along with recent advancements in surgical techniques and minimally invasive procedures, and the emergence of novel pharmacotherapies directly targeting pathogenic molecules such as myosin inhibitors. Here we review essential knowledge surrounding HCM with a specific focus on structural and functional abnormalities assessed by imaging modalities, leading to treatment strategies.
Assessment of the Retinal Vessels in Keratoconus: An OCT Angiography Study
Authors: Wylęgała Adam , Szkodny Dominika , Fiolka Rafał , Wylęgała Edward
Published: May 2022

This study investigated vascular density and foveal avascular zone (FAZ) parameters using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A) in patients with keratoconus (KC). Participants with KC and healthy controls were included and underwent best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), keratometry, anterior segment OCT, and macular OCT-A examinations. Of the 70 subjects (mean age 42.9 ± 15.31 years), 79 KC and 47 healthy eyes were included. Significant reductions in the KC group were recorded for the FAZ area, with a mean (±SD) of 0.19 ± 0.12 vs. 0.25 ± 0.09 mm2 p < 0.001. Central vascular density in KC patients was lower compared with the controls: 6.78 ± 4.74 vs. 8.44 ± 3.33 mm−1 p = 0.049; the inner density was also decreased in the study group (13.64 ± 5.13 vs. 16.54 ± 2.89 mm−1, p = 0.002), along with the outer density (14.71 ± 4.12 vs. 16.88 ± 2.42 mm−1, p = 0.004) and full density (14.25 ± 4.30 vs. 16.57 ± 2.48) p = 0.003. Furthermore, BCVA was positively correlated with central vascular density (R = 0.42 p = 0.004, total R = 0.40, p = 0.006) and inner density (R = 0.44, p = 0.002) in patients with KC but not in controls. Additionally, we found a correlation between K2 and inner vascular density (R = −0.30, p = 0.043) and central epithelium thickness and outer density (R = 0.03, p = 0.046). KC patients had lower macular vascular density and a smaller FAZ than healthy participants. The BCVA in KC patients was correlated with the vascular density.
Special Issue on Ophthalmic Optics and Visual Function
Authors: Negishi Kazuno
Published: May 2022

Exploring quality of vision is one of the most important issues in modern ophthalmology, and research into ophthalmic optics and visual function is essential for making progress in this field [...]
Comparative Clinical Characteristics, Laboratory Findings, and Outcomes of Hypoxemic and Non-Hypoxemic Patients Treated at a Makeshift COVID-19 Unit in Bangladesh: A Retrospective Chart Analysis
Authors: Sarmin Monira , Mahfuz Mustafa , Shahrin Lubaba , Shaly Nusrat Jahan , Shaima Shamsun Nahar , Shikha Shamima Sharmin , Jeorge Didarul Haque , Islam Shoeb Bin , Chisti Mohammod Jobayer , Ahmed Tahmeed
Published: May 2022

Background: Starting on 31 December 2019, from Wuhan City, China, Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused a global pandemic by 11 March 2020. Bangladesh detected its first case on 8 March 2020, only 66 days later the detection of the first case in China. We aimed to describe the epidemiology, clinical features, laboratory characteristics, and outcomes of Bangladeshi COVID-19 patients. Methods: This retrospective chart analysis compared Bangladeshi COVID-19 patients with hypoxemia compared to those without hypoxemia treated in a makeshift COVID-19 unit of icddr,b. Results: By March 2021, 207 remained in-patient. Nineteen patients (9.2%) died, whereas 10 (4.8%) were referred to different facilities for definitive care. Out of 207 in-patients, 88 patients required oxygen therapy. Multivariable logistic regression identified age (1.07 (1.02–1.13)), dyspnea (3.56 (1.06–11.96)), high CRP (1.13 (1.03–1.25)), and lymphopenia (6.18 (1.81–21.10)) as the independent predictors for hypoxemia in patients hospitalized for COVID 19 (for all, p < 0.05). Conclusion: Older age, dyspnea, high CRP, and lymphopenia are simple, but important, clinical and laboratory parameters. These may help clinicians to identify COVID-19 patients early who are at risk of fatal hypoxemia. Close monitoring, and prompt and aggressive treatment of these patients would curb their morbidity and mortality, especially in resource-limited settings.
Reply to van der Pluijm et al. Comment on “Weitzman et al. Resistance to Antimalarial Monotherapy Is Cyclic. J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11, 781”
Authors: Calfon-Peretz Ortal , Weitzman Rachel , Amitay Moshe , Samson Abraham O.
Published: May 2022

Thank you for the opportunity to respond to comments gracefully raised by van der Pluijm et al. [...]
Diagnostic Accuracy for Periprosthetic Joint Infection Does Not Improve by a Combined Use of Glucose and Leukocyte Esterase Strip Reading as Diagnostic Parameters
Authors: Haertlé Marco , Kolbeck Louisa , Macke Christian , Graulich Tilman , Stauß Ricarda , Omar Mohamed
Published: May 2022

The diagnosis of periprosthetic infections (PJI) can be challenging in clinical practice because the clinical presentations of aseptic loosening and low-grade infections are similar. Semiquantitative evaluation of leukocyte esterase (LE) in synovial fluid using a urine strip test has already established itself as a diagnostic method over the past decade. The analysis of LE in synovial fluid leads to a high number of false-positive test results. In the present study, the value of a combined semiquantitative determination of glucose and LE in synovial fluid to improve the diagnosis of PJI was investigated. Over a 4-year period, 145 synovial samples were collected from patients who developed joint effusion after arthroplasty. LE and glucose test strips were considered as an index test for the diagnosis of PJI. A ++ or +++ LE and a negative glucose test strip reading were considered as positive test results. Modified diagnostic criteria for PJI as recommended by the Musculoskeletal Infection Society (MSIS) served as the reference test, except that intraoperative findings were excluded. Forty-six out of 145 samples were classified as septic complication according to the reference test. In regard to PJI, our data showed that combined use of LE and glucose strip test reading displayed a 98.0% specificity (95% confidence interval (CI): 95.2% to 100%), a 50% sensitivity (95% CI: 35.6% to 64.4%), a 92% positive predictive value (95% CI: 81.4% to 100.0%), and an 80.3% negative predictive value (95% CI: 73.2% to 87.4%). In contrast, the exclusive analysis of LE on the urine strip to diagnose PJI demonstrated a 90.9% specificity (95% CI: 85.2% to 96.6%), a 67.4% sensitivity (95% CI: 53.8% to 80.9%), a 77.5% positive predictive value (95% CI: 64.6% to 90.4%), and an 85.7% negative predictive value (5% CI: 79.0% to 92.4%). A combination of LE and glucose test pad reading is considered superior as a potential “rule-in” method for the diagnosis of PJI compared with LE test pad analysis alone. However, combined LE and glucose synovial fluid testing also demonstrated lower test sensitivity and thus diagnostic accuracy compared with LE analysis alone. Therefore, combined glucose and LE test pad analysis does not represent a sufficient diagnostic standard to exclude PJI with certainty.
The Role of Prior Knowledge and Intelligence in Gaining from a Training on Proportional Reasoning
Authors: Thurn Christian , Nussbaumer Daniela , Schumacher Ralph , Stern Elsbeth
Published: May 2022

We explored the mediating role of prior knowledge on the relation between intelligence and learning proportional reasoning. What students gain from formal instruction may depend on their intelligence, as well as on prior encounters with proportional concepts. We investigated whether a basic curriculum unit on the concept of density promoted students’ learning in a training on proportional reasoning. A 2 × 2 design with the factors basic curriculum unit (with, without) and intervention context to introduce proportional reasoning (speed, density) was applied in two consecutive, randomized classroom studies (N1 = 251, N2 = 566 fourth- and fifth-graders; 49%/56% female). We controlled for intelligence and mathematical achievement. We expected the combination of having received the basic curriculum unit on floating and sinking and proportional reasoning introduced via density (a familiar problem-solving context for this group) to be especially favorable. Whereas this hypothesis was not supported, we showed that mathematical achievement mediated the relation between intelligence and proportional reasoning and enabled learners to better exploit the learning opportunities.
Comparative Analysis of the Solid Conveying of Regrind, Virgin and Powdery Polyolefins in Single-Screw Extrusion
Authors: Johann Kai S. , Reißing Adrian , Bonten Christian
Published: May 2022

The shape and size of processed materials play a crucial role in the solid conveying characteristics of single-screw extruders. Thus, the increasing amount of plastic regrind leads to new challenges in screw extrusion. This work investigates the conveying behavior of three distinctly different material shapes in an axially as well as a helically grooved solid conveying zone. A uniform virgin polypropylene (PP) granule, an irregularly plate-shaped PP regrind and a powdery polyethylene (PE) are processed at screw speeds up to 1350 rpm. Thereby, frictionally engaged conveying in the grooves is visualized for the utilized powder. Similarly, the virgin granule is subject to forced conveying by interlocking in the grooves. The experimentally determined throughput is furthermore compared to analytical calculations which assume a so-called nut–screw conveying. It is found that these calculations perfectly predict the throughput when processing the virgin granule and the powder in a helically grooved barrel. In contrast, the analytical calculation significantly underestimates the throughput for the regrind. This underestimation is expected to be mainly caused by its plate shape and a difference in bulk density. The actual bulk density in the extruder is probably significantly higher due to both orientation and compaction effects compared to the measured bulk density that is used for the analytical calculation. Additionally, the regrind exhibits a fluctuating throughput due to the non-constant bulk density, which results from an irregular regrind shape and a broad size distribution.
Coordinated Formation Control of Discrete-Time Autonomous Underwater Vehicles under Alterable Communication Topology with Time-Varying Delay
Authors: Yu Haomiao , Zeng Zhenfang , Guo Chen
Published: May 2022

This paper is concerned with the coordinated formation control problem of multiple autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) under alterable communication topology and time-varying delay in discrete time domain. Firstly, the multi-AUV system is divided into one leader and multiple followers, and the communication topology is divided into two parts. The coupled nonlinear AUV model is linearized into a second-order integral model using state feedback. Secondly, two types of coordinated controllers in discrete time are proposed: the controller for multi-AUV system without delay, the controller for multi-AUV system with time-varying delay. Then, the formation control issue for multiple AUVs with alterable topology is treated as the asymptotic stability of an error system. The stability analysis of the error system consisting of the state errors between each follower and the leader is performed, to obtain some novel sufficient conditions for achieving the formation control objective. Finally, some simulation results are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the theoretical results, and the comparisons describe the effects of communication topology and delay on the performance of the control system.
Mechanical Reliability Analysis of Flexible Power Cables for Marine Energy
Authors: Johannesson Pär , Lang Xiao , Johnson Erland , Ringsberg Jonas W.
Published: May 2022

Marine power cables connected to moving devices at sea may experience millions of load cycles per year, and thus they need to be flexible due to the movements of the cable and designed for mechanical loads. In this study, the focus is on the mechanical life of flexible low- and medium voltage power cables connecting devices to hubs. The reliability design method Variational Mode and Effect Analysis (VMEA) is applied, based on identifying and quantifying different types of uncertainty sources, including scatter, model and statistical uncertainties. It implements a load–strength approach that combines numerical simulations to assess the loads on the cable and experimental tests to assess the strength of the cable. The VMEA method is demonstrated for an evaluation of bending fatigue, and is found to be a useful tool to evaluate uncertainties in fatigue life for WEC (Wave Energy Converter) system cables during the design phase. The results give a firm foundation for the evaluation of safety against fatigue and are also helpful for identifying weak spots in the reliability assessment, thereby motivating actions in the improvement process. Uncertainties in terms of scatter, statistical uncertainty and model uncertainty are evaluated with respect to the WaveEL 3.0, a WEC designed by the company Waves4Power, and deployed in Runde, Norway. A major contribution to the overall uncertainty is found to originate from the fatigue life model, both in terms of scatter and model uncertainty.
Integrated Carbon Emission Estimation Method and Energy Conservation Analysis: The Port of Los Angles Case Study
Authors: Yu Yao , Sun Ruikai , Sun Yindong , Shu Yaqing
Published: May 2022

Port environmental problems have gradually become the primary concern of port authorities. The future trend of port carbon emissions is crucial to port authorities and managers in formulating regulations and optimizing operation schedules. Owing to the limitations of current prediction methods and the complex social–environmental impact, the estimation results of port carbon emissions have insufficient accuracy to support port development in the future. In this work, the stochastic impacts by regression on population, affluence, and technology (STIRPAT)–long short-term memory (LSTM)–autoregressive integrated moving average with explanatory variable (ARIMAX) integrated model is proposed for the estimation of the carbon emission of Port of Los Angeles to improve the reliability of emission prediction. Macroeconomic indicators that affect port throughput are selected using the principal component analysis—multiple linear regression model. The chosen indicators are then combined with long-term historical port throughput data as the input of the multivariate autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMAX) model to predict port throughput. Indicators related to port carbon emissions are verified by the STIRPAT model. The LSTM–ARIMAX integrated model is then applied to estimate the emission tendency, which can be useful in developing corresponding carbon reduction strategies and further understanding port emissions. Results show that the proposed method can significantly improve the estimation accuracy for port emission by 11% compared with existing techniques. Energy conservation strategies are also put forward to assist port authorities in achieving the peak clipping of port carbon emission.
Adaptive Disturbance-Observer-Based Continuous Sliding Mode Control for Small Autonomous Underwater Vehicles in the Trans-Atlantic Geotraverse Hydrothermal Field with Trajectory Modeling Based on the Path
Authors: Chen Guofang , Liu Yihui , Zhang Ziyang , Xu Yufei
Published: May 2022

Considering intense hydrothermal activities and rugged topography in a near-bottom environment of the trans-Atlantic geotraverse (TAG) hydrothermal mound, a small autonomous underwater vehicle (S-AUV) will suffer from time-varying disturbances, model uncertainties, actuator faults, and input saturations. To handle these issues, a fault-tolerant adaptive robust sliding mode control method is presented in this paper. Firstly, unknown disturbances, model uncertainties, and actuator faults of the S-AUV are synthesized into a lumped uncertain vector. Without requiring the upper bound and gradient of the uncertainties, a continuous adaptive finite-time extended state observer is designed to estimate the lumped uncertain vector. Then, an auxiliary dynamic system composed of continuous functions is introduced to deal with input saturations, thereby contributing to achieving fixed-time trajectory tracking control of S-AUVs. Based on a designed continuous fixed-time nonsingular fast sliding mode surface, the proposed continuous adaptive controller is chattering free. Simulated topography is built according to topographic data of the TAG mound, and a smooth trajectory model is constructed by cubic spline interpolation. Comprehensive simulations performed on an actual S-AUV model are given to validate the effectiveness and superiority of the presented algorithm.
Surface Waves Prediction Based on Long-Range Acoustic Backscattering in a Mid-Frequency Range
Authors: Ermoshkin Alexey V. , Kosteev Dmitry A. , Ponomarenko Alexander A. , Razumov Dmitrii D. , Salin Mikhail B.
Published: May 2022

Underwater acoustic echosounding for surface roughness parameters retrieval is studied in a frequency band that is relatively new for such purposes. During the described 2-weeks sea experiment, 1–3 kHz tonal pulses were emitted from an oceanographic platform, located on the northern Black Sea shelf. Doppler spectra of the resulting reverberation were studied. The frequency band of the acoustic system, selected for this study, is chosen due to the fact that the sound propagation range is large enough for remote sensing in a coastal zone, and the resolution cell size does not limit the research. Backscattering of acoustical signals was received for distances around two nautical miles. However, it turned to be quite difficult to interpret the obtained data since backscattering spectrum shape was influenced by a series of effects, resulting in a complicated link to wind waves and currents’ parameters. Significant wave height and dominant wave frequency were estimated as the result of such signals processed with the use of machine learning tools. A decision-tree-based mathematical regression model was trained to solve the inverse problem. Wind waves prediction is in a good agreement with direct measurements, made on the platform, and machine learning results allow physical interpretation.
P Starvation in Roses Leads to Strongly Genotype-Dependent Induction of P-Transporter Genes during Black Spot Leaf Disease
Authors: Domes Helena Sophia , Neu Enzo , Linde Marcus , Debener Thomas
Published: May 2022

Phosphorous starvation in plants has been reported to have contrasting effects on the interaction with pathogens in different plant pathogen systems and plant species. Both increases and decreases in susceptibility have been observed in numerous reports. Here, we analysed black spot infection and the leaf expression of two plant phosphate transporters and one defence marker gene in roses after phosphorous starvation. We varied three factors: phosphate starvation versus full supply of phosphorous, black spot infection vs. mock inoculation, and different susceptible and resistant progeny of a biparental rose population. Black spot susceptibility or resistance was not significantly changed upon phosphate starvation in either compatible or incompatible interactions. The expression of phosphate transporters was strongly induced upon starvation, but in some genotypes, expression was altered by black spot interaction as well. The marker for pathogenic interactions was exclusively induced by interaction with black spot, but the expression was altered by a combination of phosphate starvation and interaction with the fungus in some genotypes. In summary, phosphate starvation has clear effects on the gene expression of phosphate transporters in rose leaves, and the interaction with a hemibiotrophic leaf pathogen is strongly genotype dependent.
Filling the Gap in Southern Europe—Diversity of Cryphonectria parasitica and Associated Mycovirus (Cryphonectria hypovirus 1) in Montenegro
Authors: Nuskern Lucija , Stojanović Milena , Milanović-Litre Marija , Šibenik Tena , Ježić Marin , Poljak Igor , Ćurković-Perica Mirna
Published: May 2022

Cryphonectria parasitica is an invasive fungal pathogen that causes blight disease on chestnut trees. Its destructive effect can be controlled with naturally occurring mycovirus Cryphonectria hypovirus 1 (CHV1). To date, the spread of C. parasitica and CHV1 in Europe is fairly well documented, but there are still several unexplored regions. Thus, we sampled blight cankers from four sweet chestnut populations in Bay of Kotor and Lake Skadar regions in Montenegro. We determined vegetative compatibility (vc) type and mating-type diversity using molecular vic and MAT1 genotyping, as well as confirming the presence of CHV1 by RT-PCR. We identified 11 vc types, with EU-12 being the dominant one represented by 58.2% of all fungal isolates. The Shannon diversity index ranged from 0.93 to 1.47. Both mating types of C. parasitica were found in all four populations. The prevalence of CHV1 ranged from 15% to 40%. All CHV1 isolates belonged to Italian subtype I of CHV1 and were closely related, with relatively recent common ancestors. Our results indicate a longer presence of C. parasitica and CHV1 in Montenegro than previously thought. Natural biocontrol with CHV1 seems to be well established. However, it has the potential for deterioration; thus, close monitoring is required.
Paraphysoderma sedebokerense GlnS III Is Essential for the Infection of Its Host Haematococcus lacustris
Authors: Alors David , Amses Kevin R. , James Timothy Y. , Boussiba Sammy , Zarka Aliza
Published: May 2022

Glutamine synthetase (GlnS) is a key enzyme in nitrogen metabolism. We investigated the effect of the GlnS inhibitor glufosinate on the infection of H. lacustris by the blastocladialean fungus P. sedebokerense, assuming that interfering with the host nitrogen metabolism will affect the success of the parasite. Complete inhibition of infection, which could be bypassed by the GlnS product glutamine, was observed at millimolar concentrations of glufosinate. However, this effect of glufosinate was attributed to its direct interaction with the blastoclad and not the host, which results in development and growth inhibition of the blastoclad. In our P. sedebokerense draft genome, we found that the sequence of GlnS is related to another fungal GlnS, type III, found in many poor known phyla of fungi, including Blastocladiomycota and Chytridiomycota, and absent in the main subkingdom of fungi, the Dikarya. We further tested the ability of the blastoclad to utilize nitrate and ammonia as inorganic nitrogen sources and glutamine for growth. We found that P. sedebokerense equally use ammonia and glutamine and use also nitrate, but with less efficiency. Altogether, our results show that GlnS type III is mandatory for the development and growth of P. sedebokerense and could be an efficient target to develop strategies for the control of the fungal parasite of H. lacustris.
Analysis of Biochemical and Genetic Variability of Pleurotus ostreatus Based on the β-Glucans and CDDP Markers
Authors: Golian Marcel , Chlebová Zuzana , Žiarovská Jana , Benzová Lenka , Urbanová Lucia , Hovaňáková Lucia , Chlebo Peter , Urminská Dana
Published: May 2022

Oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) is still one of the most cultivated edible and medicinal mushrooms. Despite its frequent cultivation around the world, there is currently just a little information available on the variability of strains in terms of the content of β-glucans in them. This work presents an extensive study of 60 strains in terms of the content of α-glucans and β-glucans in their caps and stipes. The authenticity of the production strains based on an analysis of the variability of their genome by CDDP (Conserved DNA-derived polymorphism) markers was confirmed, whereas identical CDDP profiles were identified between samples 45, 89, 95, and 96. Genetic variability of the analyzed production strains showed a high polymorphism and effective discriminative power of the used marking technique. Medium positive correlations were found among the CDDP profiles and β-glucan content in the group of strains that generated the same CDDP profiles, and low negative correlation was found among these profiles in the group of low β-glucan content strains. For the determination of glucans content, Mushroom and Yeast analytical enzymatic kit (Megazyme, Bray, Co. Wicklow, Ireland) were used. The results clearly showed that the stipe contains on average 33% more β-glucans than the cap. The minimum detected β-glucan content in the stipe was in strain no. 72, specifically 22%, and the maximum in strain no. 43, specifically 56%, which after the conversion represents a difference of 155%. From the point of view of β-glucan content, the stated strain no. 43 appears to be very suitable for the commercial production of β-glucans under certain conditions.
Clinical Utility of Personalized Serum IgG Subclass Ratios for the Differentiation of IgG4-Related Sclerosing Cholangitis (IgG4-SC) from Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC) and Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA)
Authors: Park Jae Keun , Kim Dongwuk , Lee Jeong Min , Lee Kwang Hyuck , Lee Kyu Taek , Park Joo Kyung , Lee Jong Kyun
Published: May 2022

Background: The differential diagnosis of immunoglobulin G4-sclerosing cholangitis (IgG4-SC) from primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) or cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is important. In this study, we aimed to find the best combinations of serum IgG subclasses and IgG4 levels for differentiating IgG4-SC from PSC or CCA. Methods: In total, 31 patients with IgG4-SC, 27 patients with PSC, and 40 patients with CCA were enrolled from 2003 to 2017 at a single tertiary referral center. We retrospectively assessed the IgG4, IgG4/IgG1, IgG4/(IgG1+IgG3), and (IgG4+IgG2)/(IgG1+IgG3) in each of the patients. ROC curves were established to obtain the optimal cutoff value for each parameter. McNemar’s test was used to compare the sensitivities, specificities, and accuracies of diagnostic algorithms. Results: In differentiating IgG4-SC from PSC, the accuracies of IgG4/IgG1 ≥ 0.087 and of IgG4/(IgG1+IgG3) ≥ 0.081 were significantly higher than that of IgG4 ≥ 135 mg/dL alone (78% vs. 66%, p = 0.025). Serum IgG4 ≥ 52 mg/dL showed the best accuracy for differentiation of IgG4-SC from CCA, with a sensitivity and specificity of 80% and 82%, respectively, but this was statistically not significant (p = 0.405). Conclusions: The serum IgG4/IgG1 or IgG4/(IgG1+IgG3) level may help to differentiate IgG4-SC from PSC. IgG4 alone is the most accurate serologic marker for the differentiation of IgG4-SC from CCA.
Are Structural Funds a Real Solution for Regional Development in the European Union? A Study on the Northeast Region of Romania
Authors: Bostan Ionel , Moroşan Andrei-Alexandru , Hapenciuc Cristian-Valentin , Stanciu Pavel , Condratov Iulian
Published: May 2022

Economic development has been a major priority for the European Commission, with significant amounts of Structural and Cohesion Funds being allocated in this direction. With the enlargements of the Union in 2004, 2007 and 2013, the Regional Development Policy faced a new challenge, with the disparity between new members and the community average being a notable one. The literature is divided with respect to the impact generated by funds allocated through the Regional Development Policy, as some authors claim the existence of positive effects, others identify conditional positive effects and other authors identify only negative effects and say that the whole support system needs to be rethought. This research presents an empirical approach to the issue of the effectiveness of the European Community’s support system for business environments. An analysis is performed at the microeconomic level in order to quantify observable effects at the level of the SMEs that have benefited from non-reimbursable financial aid. The data obtained indicate that Structural and Cohesion Funds for business environments have a significant effect in the medium and long terms, contributing to the achievement of the general objective of the Regional Development Policy (reducing economic disparities between EU member states).
Politically Connected Firms and Forward-Looking Disclosure in the Era of Oman Vision 2040
Authors: Al Lawati Hidaya
Published: May 2022

Oman Vision 2040 is the blueprint for Oman’s future aspirations. This vision is set with a number of high-level long-term targets to reflect the desired progress towards the strategic goals, in order to direct all Omani companies to build productive strategies and innovative plans to diversify the country’s economy and reduce the dependence on the oil sector. All Omani companies are required to move according to this path by disclosing forward-looking information and goals in their annual reports. The progress will be monitored by the Vision 2040 Follow Up Unit which will report regularly on the targets. Therefore, our paper examines whether the presence of ruling family members on boards of directors impacts the quality and tone of forward-looking disclosure (FLD). Based on the sample of 34 Omani financial listed firms on Muscat Stock Exchange between 2014 and 2020, we found that there is a positive and significant association between politically connected firms and FLD quality. This confirms prior literature that politically connected firms are considered more transparent than their non-connected peers. We also found that firms with ruling family board members disclose more good forward-looking news in the chairman’s statements. Furthermore, in the case of poor financial performance firms, we found that ruling members tend to disclose more good news than bad news, and they could use impression management techniques to avoid the negative attraction and to maintain their reputation in the market. From these findings, we draw important implications for policymakers and shareholders who need to encourage firms to appoint ruling family directors on their boards (to a specific extent) due to the potential beneficial outcomes they deliver.
Avalanche Hazard Modelling within the Kráľova Hoľa Area in the Low Tatra Mountains in Slovakia
Authors: Košová Vladislava , Molokáč Mário , Čech Vladimír , Jesenský Miloš
Published: May 2022

The aim of this work is a comprehensive assessment of the avalanche risk within the Kráľova hoľa area in the Low Tatra Mountains in Slovakia by the modeling of trigger areas, and the simulation of avalanche movements and their maximum impact using GIS and the RAMMS simulation model. Within the environment of geographic information systems, we created a layer of trigger areas using a digital elevation model and a vector layer of a land cover as input data. This layer was added together with the digital elevation model to the RAMMS simulation model, where cartographic outputs were created, focusing on snow cover height, avalanche flow speed, and pressure exerted by a falling avalanche. Based on these documents, we were able to develop an updated map of the avalanche cadastre of the examined area. In the given territory, we mapped a range of trigger areas within an area of 2.6 km2 and the total range of avalanche run-outs within 14 interconnected areas. Of all the high mountains in Slovakia endangered by avalanches, this is the lowest range. The results are a suitable basis for the proper management and optimal use of the territory, which is part of Low Tatras National Park.
Design and Evaluation of Green Space In Situ Rainwater Regulation and Storage Systems for Combating Extreme Rainfall Events: Design of Shanghai Gongkang Green Space to Adapt to Climate Change
Authors: Xie Changkun , Wang Zhedong , Yu Bingqin , Che Shengquan
Published: May 2022

Global climate change has led to more extreme rainfall events. Exploring the different design schemes of rainwater in situ regulation and storage systems in green spaces to cope with extreme rainfall events is critical to cities for combating flood disasters. Using the Gongkang green space as the research object and the XPDrainage software program as the simulation tool, this study explored and evaluated different design schemes of rainwater in situ regulation and storage systems in green spaces and their responses to extreme rainfall events in Shanghai. Based on the simulated results of the runoff curves, paths and ponding area of the Gongkang green space, the ideal number and position of rainwater regulation and storage facilities were determined. Four different schemes were examined: Scheme A (diversion-oriented), Scheme B (infiltration- and detention-oriented) and schemes C and D (comprehensive rainwater regulation and storage systems). From the simulation evaluation, the total runoff volume capture rate of Scheme C reached 100%, 99.8% and 98.2% under one-, three- and five-year return period rainfall events, respectively. For the 210 mm extraordinary rainstorm event, Scheme C’s and Scheme D’s total runoff volume capture rates reached 81.9% and 94.7%, respectively. Therefore, the comprehensive rainwater regulation and storage schemes (schemes C and D) met the runoff control requirements under extreme rainfall events in the Gongkang green space. This study provides a technical reference for the optimal design of a rainwater in situ regulation and storage system in a green space and promotes the construction of resilient cities.
Soil-Improving Cropping Systems for Sustainable and Profitable Farming in Europe
Authors: Hessel Rudi , Wyseure Guido , Panagea Ioanna S. , Alaoui Abdallah , Reed Mark S. , van Delden Hedwig , Muro Melanie , Mills Jane , Oenema Oene , Areal Francisco , van den Elsen Erik , Verzandvoort Simone , Assinck Falentijn , Elsen Annemie , Lipiec Jerzy , Koutroulis Aristeidis , O’Sullivan Lilian , Bolinder Martin A. , Fleskens Luuk , Kandeler Ellen , Montanarella Luca , Heinen Marius , Toth Zoltan , Hallama Moritz , Cuevas Julián , Baartman Jantiene E. M. , Piccoli Ilaria , Dalgaard Tommy , Stolte Jannes , Black Jasmine E. , Chivers Charlotte-Anne
Published: May 2022

Soils form the basis for agricultural production and other ecosystem services, and soil management should aim at improving their quality and resilience. Within the SoilCare project, the concept of soil-improving cropping systems (SICS) was developed as a holistic approach to facilitate the adoption of soil management that is sustainable and profitable. SICS selected with stakeholders were monitored and evaluated for environmental, sociocultural, and economic effects to determine profitability and sustainability. Monitoring results were upscaled to European level using modelling and Europe-wide data, and a mapping tool was developed to assist in selection of appropriate SICS across Europe. Furthermore, biophysical, sociocultural, economic, and policy reasons for (non)adoption were studied. Results at the plot/farm scale showed a small positive impact of SICS on environment and soil, no effect on sustainability, and small negative impacts on economic and sociocultural dimensions. Modelling showed that different SICS had different impacts across Europe—indicating the importance of understanding local dynamics in Europe-wide assessments. Work on adoption of SICS confirmed the role economic considerations play in the uptake of SICS, but also highlighted social factors such as trust. The project’s results underlined the need for policies that support and enable a transition to more sustainable agricultural practices in a coherent way.
Argumentation in the Interpretation of Statutory Law and International Law: Not Ejusdem Generis
Authors: Smolka Jennifer
Published: May 2022

This contribution bridges three fields—pragmatics, argumentation, and law. Arguments can be seen as the verbal formulation of inferences that articulate justificatory relationships, meaning that behind every argument is at least one argumentative inference. As an argumentative activity and verbal practice, legal discourse has gaps to be filled by pragmatic inference. Neo- and post-Gricean frameworks can thus tentatively be used for its analysis. Based on these frameworks, this contribution asks whether argumentation in the interpretation of statutory law is the same as in international law. More precisely, it looks at judges’ legal interpretations, which function as justifying arguments because they are constrained by rules/canons of interpretation. It is shown that neither a pragma-dialectical hierarchy of statutory canons nor a hierarchy of related presumptions carries over to international law where there is no such hierarchy.
eHealth in Self-Managing at a Distance Patients with COPD
Authors: Kermelly Sophie B. , Bourbeau Jean
Published: May 2022

Worldwide, healthcare delivery for chronic diseases has been challenging due to the current SARS-COV-2 pandemic. The growing use of information and communication technologies via telehealth has gained popularity in all fields of medicine. In chronic respiratory diseases, self-management, defined as a structured but personalized multi-component intervention with the main goal of achieving healthy behavioral change, is an essential element of long-term care. Iterative interventions delivered by a well-trained health coach in order to empower and provide the patient with the tools and skills needed to adopt sustained healthy behaviors have proven to be effective in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Benefits have been shown to both improve patient quality of life and reduce acute exacerbation events and acute healthcare utilization. In COPD, the evidence so far has shown us that remote technologies such as telemonitoring or remote management may improve patient-reported outcomes and healthcare utilization. However, clear limitations are still present and questions remain unanswered. More and better designed studies are therefore necessary to define the place of eHealth in self-managing at a distance in patients with COPD.
Special Issue: Advance in Friction Stir Processed Materials
Authors: Iwaszko Józef , Winczek Jerzy
Published: May 2022

In recent years, on the basis of FSP/FSW technologies, a number of new solutions, methods and variants have been developed, constituting not only proof of the continuous evolution of FSP/FSW technologies, but also of the huge scientific and application potential hidden in these methods [...]