bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hypovitaminosis D and Low T3 Syndrome: A Link for Therapeutic Challenges in Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Pingitore Alessandro , Mastorci Francesca , Berti Sergio , Sabatino Laura , Palmieri Cataldo , Iervasi Giorgio , Vassalle Cristina
Published: November 2021

Background and Aims: Vitamin D counteracts the reduction in the peripheral conversion of tiroxine (T4) into triiodothyronine (T3), which is the mechanism of low T3 syndrome (LT3) in acute myocardial infarction (AMI). The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between LT3 and hypovitaminosis D in AMI patients. Methods and Results: One hundred and twenty-four AMI patients were enrolled. Blood samples were taken at admission, and at 3, 12, 24, 48, and 72 h after admission. LT3 was defined as a value of fT3 ≤ 2.2 pg/mL, occurring within 3 days of hospital admission. Levels were defined as follows: sufficiency as a value of ±30 ng/mL, vitamin D insufficiency as 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) between 21 and 29 ng/mL, deficiency in 25(OH)D as below 20 ng/mL, and severe deficiency as values under 10 ng/mL. The percentage of subjects with severe 25(OH)D deficiency was significantly higher in the LT3 group (33% vs. 13%, p < 0.01). When LT3S was evaluated as a dependent variable, severe 25(OH)D deficiency (OR 2.6: 95%CI 1–6.7, p < 0.05) remained as an independent determinant after logistic multivariate adjustment together with age (>69 yrs, 50th percentile; OR 3.4, 95% CI 1.3–8.3, p < 0.01), but not female gender (OR 1.7, 95% CI 0.7–4.2, p = ns). Conclusions: This pilot study shows a relationship between hypovitaminosis D and LT3 in AMI patients. This association opens potential therapeutic challenges concerning the restoration of euthyroidism through vitamin D administration, together with the normalization of hypovitaminosis.
Differences in Hospitalization Outcomes of Kidney Disease between Patients Who Received Care by Nephrologists and Non-Nephrologist Physicians: A Propensity-Score-Matched Study
Authors: Wang Chien-Wun , Yang Yu , Yeh Chun-Chieh , Cherng Yih-Giun , Chen Ta-Liang , Liao Chien-Chang
Published: November 2021

The influence of physician specialty on the outcomes of kidney diseases (KDs) remains underexplored. We aimed to compare the complications and mortality of patients with admissions for KD who received care by nephrologists and non-nephrologist (NN) physicians. We used health insurance research data in Taiwan to conduct a propensity-score matched study that included 17,055 patients with admissions for KD who received care by nephrologists and 17,055 patients with admissions for KD who received care by NN physicians. Multivariable logistic regressions were conducted to calculate adjusted odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for 30-day mortality and major complications associated with physician specialty. Compared with NN physicians, care by nephrologists was associated with a reduced risk of 30-day mortality (OR 0.29, 95% CI 0.25–0.35), pneumonia (OR 0.82, 95% CI 0.76–0.89), acute myocardial infarction (OR 0.68, 95% CI 0.54–0.87), and intensive care unit stay (OR 0.78, 95% CI 0.73–0.84). The association between nephrologist care and reduced admission adverse events was significant in every age category, for both sexes and various subgroups. Patients with admissions for KD who received care by nephrologists had fewer adverse events than those who received care by NN physicians. We suggest that regular nephrologist consultations or referrals may improve medical care and clinical outcomes in this vulnerable population.
Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty with Bony and Metallic versus Standard Bony Reconstruction for Severe Glenoid Bone Loss. A Retrospective Comparative Cohort Study
Authors: Nabergoj Marko , Neyton Lionel , Bothorel Hugo , Ho Sean W. L. , Wang Sidi , Chong Xue Ling , Lädermann Alexandre
Published: November 2021

There are different techniques to address severe glenoid erosion during reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA). This study assessed the clinical and radiological outcomes of RSA with combined bony and metallic augment (BMA) glenoid reconstruction compared to bony augmentation (BA) alone. A review of patients who underwent RSA with severe glenoid bone loss requiring reconstruction from January 2017 to January 2019 was performed. Patients were divided into two groups: BMA versus BA alone. Clinical outcome measurements included two years postoperative ROM, Constant score, subjective shoulder value (SSV), and the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Shoulder (ASES) score. Radiological outcomes included radiographic evidence of scapular complications and graft incorporation. The BMA group had significantly different glenoid morphology (p < 0.001) and greater bone loss thickness than the BA group (16.3 ± 3.8 mm vs. 12.0 ± 0.0 mm, p = 0.020). Both groups had significantly improved ROM (anterior forward flexion and external rotation) and clinical scores (Constant, SSV and ASES scores) at 2 years. Greater improvement was observed in the BMA group in terms of anterior forward flexion (86.3° ± 27.9° vs. 43.8° ± 25.6°, p = 0.013) and Constant score (56.6 ± 10.1 vs. 38.3 ± 16.7, p = 0.021). The BA group demonstrated greater functional and clinical improvements with higher postoperative active external rotation and ASES results (active external rotation, 49.4° ± 17.0° vs. 29.4° ± 14.7°, p = 0.017; ASES, 89.1 ± 11.3 vs. 76.8 ± 11.0, p = 0.045). The combination use of bone graft and metallic augments in severe glenoid bone loss during RSA is safe and effective and can be considered in cases of severe glenoid bone loss where bone graft alone may be insufficient.
Urinary Beta-2-Microglobulin and Late Nephrotoxicity in Childhood Cancer Survivors
Authors: Latoch Eryk , Konończuk Katarzyna , Taranta-Janusz Katarzyna , Muszyńska-Rosłan Katarzyna , Sawicka Magdalena , Wasilewska Anna , Krawczuk-Rybak Maryna
Published: November 2021

The objectives of this study were to evaluate urinary beta-2-microglobulin (β2M) levels in long-term childhood cancer survivors and to establish its association with anticancer drug-induced nephrotoxicity. The study consisted of 165 childhood cancer survivors (CCS) who were in continuous complete remission. We reported that CCS had a significantly higher level of β2M (p < 0.001) and β2M/Cr. ratio (p < 0.05) than healthy peers. Among all participants, 24 (14.5%) had decreased eGFR (<90 mL/min/1.73 m2). A significant positive correlation between β2M/Cr. ratio and body mass index (coef. 14.48, p = 0.046) was found. Furthermore, higher levels of urinary β2M were detected among CCS with a longer follow-up time (over 5 years) after treatment. Subjects with decreased eGFR showed statistically higher urinary β2M levels (20.06 ± 21.56 ng/mL vs. 8.55 ± 3.65 ng/mL, p = 0.007) compared with the healthy peers. Twelve survivors (7.2%) presented hyperfiltration and they had higher urinary β2M levels than CCS with normal glomerular filtration (46.33 ± 93.11 vs. 8.55 ± 3.65 ng/mL, p = 0.029). This study did not reveal an association between potential treatment-related risk factors such as chemotherapy, surgery, radiotherapy, and the urinary β2M level. The relationship between treatment with abdominal radiotherapy and reduced eGFR was confirmed (p < 0.05). We demonstrated that urinary beta-2-microglobulin may play a role in the subtle kidney injury in childhood cancer survivors; however, the treatment-related factors affecting the β2M level remain unknown. Further prospective studies with a longer follow-up time are needed to confirm the utility of urinary β2M and its role as a non-invasive biomarker of renal dysfunction.
Methods Used to Evaluate the Immediate Effects of Airway Clearance Techniques in Adults with Cystic Fibrosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Chapman Naomi , Watson Kathryn , Hatton Tamara , Cavalheri Vinicius , Wood Jamie , Gucciardi Daniel F. , Smith Elizabeth F. , Hill Kylie
Published: November 2021

This review reports on methods used to evaluate airway clearance techniques (ACT) in adults with CF and examined data for evidence of any effect. Sixty-eight studies described ACT in adequate detail and were included in this review. Frequently reported outcomes were sputum expectoration (72%) and spirometric lung function (60%). Compared with cough alone, following any ACT, there was a trend for greater sputum wet weight, however FEV1 was not different. The mean (95% CI) within-group effect for sputum wet weight following any ACT was 12.43 g (9.28 to 15.58) (n = 30 studies) and for FEV1 was 0.03 L (−0.17 to 0.24) (n = 14 studies). Meta-regression demonstrated that, when compared with cough alone, greater sputum wet weight was reported in groups that received additional ACT by between 2.45 and 3.94 g (F3,66 = 2.97, p = 0.04). These data suggest the addition of ACT to cough alone may optimise sputum clearance; however, FEV1 lacked sensitivity to detect this change. Importantly, this review highlights the lack of appropriate measures to assess ACT efficacy.
Effect of DA-9701 on the Gastrointestinal Motility in the Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Mice
Authors: Ha Changyoon , Kim Heejin , Cha Rari , Lee Jaemin , Lee Sangsoo , Ryu Jung-Hwa , Kim Hyunjin , Lee Ok-Jae
Published: November 2021

Background: Compared to the general population, diabetic patients experience more frequent episodes of gastrointestinal (GI) motility dysfunction, owing to the disruption of functional innervations. DA-9701 is a new prokinetic agent formulated from the extracts of Pharbitidis semen and Corydalis tuber. Aim: To investigate the effect of DA-9701 on GI motility in an animal model of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes. Methods: Diabetes was induced in mice by intraperitoneal injection of STZ (40 mg/kg of body weight in 0.1 M citrate buffer) for 3 days. Diabetic mice were divided into four groups and administered DA-9701 in different doses (1, 3, and 10 mg/kg) or placebo for 2 weeks. Intestinal transit was assessed using charcoal meal movement. GI isometric contraction was measured by applying an isometric force transducer on a circular muscle strip of the antrum, ileum, and proximal colon of sacrificed mice. Gastric emptying rate was evaluated by measuring the dye percentage remaining in the stomach relative to the total dye amount recovered in a standardization group of mice. Results: Body weight and antral and small intestinal motility were less in diabetic mice than in control mice, and colonic motility was similar in both. DA-9701 showed a dose-dependent increase in the amplitude of spontaneous phasic contractions in the antrum, ileum, and colon in diabetic mice without influencing body weight or blood glucose levels. The degree of improvement was comparable between diabetic and control mice. Intestinal transit was significantly more delayed in diabetic mice than in controls (43 ± 7% vs. 67 ± 8%, p < 0.05); however, DA-9701 restored the delayed intestinal transit more effectively compared to placebo (75% vs. 50%). The gastric emptying rate was significantly more delayed in diabetic mice than in controls (43 ± 10% vs. 62 ± 12%, p < 0.05), and was improved by DA-9701 in a dose-dependent manner (50%, 55%, and 60% in mice treated with 1, 3, and 10 mg/kg of DA-9701, respectively, vs. 43% in placebo-treated and 60% in control mice). Conclusions: DA-9701 improved GI contractility without affecting blood sugar and body weight in diabetic mice. DA-9701 could improve the decreased GI motility and clinical symptoms in progressive diabetic patients.
Is Stem Revision Necessary for Vancouver B2 Periprosthetic Hip Fractures? Analysis of Osteosynthesis Results from 39 Cases
Authors: González-Martín David , González-Casamayor Sergio , Herrera-Pérez Mario , Guerra-Ferraz Ayron , Ojeda-Jiménez Jorge , Pais-Brito José Luis
Published: November 2021

Although stem revision is recommended for Vancouver B2 periprosthetic hip fractures (PPHFs), there has recently been a debate whether, under certain conditions, they could be treated by osteosynthesis alone. This study aimed to describe the medium-term clinical and radiological results of several patients with V-B2 fractures treated via osteosynthesis. A retrospective study of patients with V-B2 PPHF treated by osteosynthesis without stem revision, operated on between 2009 and 2019, was performed. The type of arthroplasty, type of stem, ASA, Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), medical and implant complications, reoperation rate, first-year mortality, radiological results (consolidation time), and functional results were analyzed. Thirty-nine patients were included. Their average age was 78.82 years. Most of the patients presented ASA ≥ 3 (35/39) and CCI ≥ 5 (32/39). Radiological consolidation was achieved in 93.5% of patients, with an average consolidation time of 92.93 days. The average Parker test score before admission was 5.84 while the current one was 4.92 (5.16 years follow-up). Osteosynthesis without stem revision is a valid surgical alternative in certain types of patients with V-B2 PPHF, depending on previous mobility, fracture pattern (anatomical reconstruction possible), anesthetic risk, comorbidities, and previous hip pain.
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor as a Putative Biomarker of Depression in Asthmatics with Reversible Airway Narrowing
Authors: Gomułka Krzysztof , Liebhart Jerzy , Mędrala Wojciech
Published: November 2021

The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) plays a pivotal role in process of angiogenesis in adults. If angiogenesis is not properly controlled, its deregulation may implicate it in various psychosomatic diseases states. The aim of our study was to reveal possible correlation between severity of depression in asthmatics with different degrees of airway narrowing and serum vascular endothelial growth factor levels. The study population included a total of 122 adult subjects: 82 patients with asthma (among them 42 patients with irreversible bronchoconstriction and 40 patients with reversible bronchoconstriction) and 40 healthy participants as a control group. The standardized Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) was used to estimate the depression symptoms. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to assess the VEGF serum concentration in all participants. There was a significant difference in depression symptoms in asthmatics with reversible (p = 0.0432) and irreversible airway obstruction (p = 0.00005) in comparison to control group and between these two subgroups of asthmatics (p = 0.0233). Obtained results revealed significant correlation between level of depression and mean VEGF serum concentration in asthmatics with reversible airway obstruction (p = 0.0202). There was no difference between enhanced depression symptoms and VEGF serum concentration in patients with irreversible airway obstruction nor in the total group of asthmatics (in both p > 0.05). The relationship between asthma severity and depression symptoms seems to be certain. VEGF might be considered as a putative biomarker of depression in asthmatics, mainly those with reversible airway narrowing.
Pentoxifylline as a Potential Adjuvant Therapy for COVID-19: Impeding the Burden of the Cytokine Storm
Authors: Feret Wiktoria , Nalewajska Magdalena , Wojczyński Łukasz , Witkiewicz Wojciech , Kłos Patrycja , Dziedziejko Violetta , Pawlik Andrzej
Published: November 2021

The outburst of inflammatory response and hypercoagulability are among the factors contributing to increased mortality in severe COVID-19 cases. Pentoxifylline (PTX), a xanthine-derived drug registered for the treatment of vascular claudication, has been reported to display broad-spectrum anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties via adenosine A2A receptor (A2AR)-related mechanisms, in parallel to its rheological actions. Prior studies have indicated the efficacy of PTX in the treatment of various pulmonary diseases, including the management of acute respiratory distress syndrome of infectious causes. Therefore, PTX has been proposed to have potential benefits in the treatment of SARS-CoV-2 symptoms, as well as its complications. The aim of this review is to discuss available knowledge regarding the role of PTX as a complementary therapeutic in SARS-CoV-2.
Ultrasound Imaging in Dentistry: A Literature Overview
Authors: Reda Rodolfo , Zanza Alessio , Cicconetti Andrea , Bhandi Shilpa , Miccoli Gabriele , Gambarini Gianluca , Di Nardo Dario
Published: November 2021

(1) Background: the frequency with which diagnostic tests are prescribed with exposure to ionizing radiation, a cause of biological damage, has been studied, and with much more attention, patients are subjected to these diagnostic tests for diagnosis and follow-up. This review aimed, given the recent developments of this technology, to evaluate the possible use of ultrasound in different branches of dentistry. The possibility of applying ionizing-radiation-free diagnostic exams in dentistry, overcoming the limits of this application, has led scientific research in this area to obtain interesting results that bode well for the future. (2) Methods: a search for articles on the application of ultrasounds in dentistry was performed using the PubMed electronic database. (3) Results: only 32 studies were included, and these clearly stated that this examination is widely usable and in great progress. (4) Conclusions: regarding the modern application techniques of this diagnostic test, it is essential to consider technological evolution as an objective to reduce the damage and side effects of necessary diagnostic tests. The use of ultrasound in dentistry can represent a valid radiation-free alternative, in certain contexts, to the other most used exams.
Design and Validation of Low-Power Secure and Dependable Elliptic Curve Cryptosystem
Authors: Poudel Bikash , Munir Arslan , Kong Joonho , Khan Muazzam A.
Published: November 2021

The elliptic curve cryptosystem (ECC) has been proven to be vulnerable to non-invasive side-channel analysis attacks, such as timing, power, visible light, electromagnetic emanation, and acoustic analysis attacks. In ECC, the scalar multiplication component is considered to be highly susceptible to side-channel attacks (SCAs) because it consumes the most power and leaks the most information. In this work, we design a robust asynchronous circuit for scalar multiplication that is resistant to state-of-the-art timing, power, and fault analysis attacks. We leverage the genetic algorithm with multi-objective fitness function to generate a standard Boolean logic-based combinational circuit for scalar multiplication. We transform this circuit into a multi-threshold dual-spacer dual-rail delay-insensitive logic (MTD3L) circuit. We then design point-addition and point-doubling circuits using the same procedure. Finally, we integrate these components together into a complete secure and dependable ECC processor. We design and validate the ECC processor using Xilinx ISE 14.7 and implement it in a Xilinx Kintex-7 field-programmable gate array (FPGA).
Active Methanotrophs and Their Response to Temperature in Marine Environments: An Experimental Study
Authors: Li Jing , Xu Xiaoqing , Liu Changling , Wu Nengyou , Sun Zhilei , He Xingliang , Chen Ye
Published: November 2021

Aerobic methane (CH4) oxidation plays a significant role in marine CH4 consumption. Temperature changes resulting from, for example, global warming, have been suggested to be able to influence methanotrophic communities and their CH4 oxidation capacity. However, exact knowledge regarding temperature controls on marine aerobic methane oxidation is still missing. In this study, CH4 consumption and the methanotrophic community structure were investigated by incubating sediments from shallow (Bohai Bay) and deep marine environments (East China Sea) at 4, 15, and 28 °C for up to 250 days. The results show that the abundance of the methanotrophic population, dominated by the family Methylococcaceae (type I methanotrophs), was significantly elevated after all incubations and that aerobic methane oxidation for both areas had a strong temperature sensitivity. A positive correlation between the CH4 oxidation rate and temperature was witnessed in the Bohai Bay incubations, whereas for the East China Sea incubations, the optimum temperature was 15 °C. The systematic variations of pmoA OTUs between the Bohai Bay and East China Sea incubations indicated that the exact behaviors of CH4 oxidation rates with temperature are related to the different methanotrophic community structures in shallow and deep seas. These results are of great significance for quantitatively evaluating the biodegradability of CH4 in different marine environments.
Agronomic Factors Influencing the Scale of Fusarium Mycotoxin Contamination of Oats
Authors: Kolawole Oluwatobi , De Ruyck Karl , Greer Brett , Meneely Julie , Doohan Fiona , Danaher Martin , Elliott Christopher
Published: November 2021

Seven agronomic factors (crop season, farming system, harvest date, moisture, county, oat variety, and previous crop) were recorded for 202 oat crops grown across Ireland, and samples were analysed by LC-MS/MS for four major Fusarium mycotoxins: deoxynivalenol (DON), zearalenone (ZEN), T-2 toxin and HT-2 toxin. Type A trichothecenes were present in 62% of crops, with 7.4% exceeding European regulatory limits. DON (6.4%) and ZEN (9.9%) occurrences were relatively infrequent, though one and three samples were measured over their set limits, respectively. Overall, the type of farming system and the previous crop were the main factors identified as significantly influencing mycotoxin prevalence or concentration. Particularly, the adherence to an organic farming system and growing oats after a previous crop of grass were found to decrease contamination by type A trichothecenes. These are important findings and may provide valuable insights for many other types of cereal crops as Europe moves towards a much greater organic-based food system.
Investigating the Effect of Enrichment on the Behavior of Zoo-Housed Southern Ground Hornbills
Authors: Brereton James Edward , Myhill Mark Nigel Geoffrey , Shora James Ali
Published: November 2021

Enrichment is essential for the welfare of many zoo-housed animals, yet the value of enrichment is not well understood for all taxa. As an intelligent, long-lived species, the southern ground hornbill (Bucorvus leadbeateri) is a good model for enrichment research. A pair of southern ground hornbills, housed at Beale Wildlife Park and Gardens, were observed during study periods in 2014, 2018, and 2019. Three types of enrichment were provided for the birds; these enrichment types were developed based on information on the habits of the species as found in natural history papers. The enrichment types consisted of a pile of twigs, small animal carcasses, and plastic mirrors. Overall, the carcass feeds and the mirrors resulted in the greatest changes in behavior, with hornbills engaging in long periods of food manipulation with carcasses. For the mirror condition, hornbills spent time stalking around and pecking at mirrors, similar to the ‘window smashing’ behavior seen in wild hornbills. Overall, the research suggests that not only can enrichment modify the behavior of southern ground hornbills, but non-nutritional enrichment may be equally valuable to the animals. Natural history papers may have some value in inspiring novel enrichment items for zoo-housed animals.
A High–Resolution Accumulation Record of Arsenic and Mercury after the First Industrial Revolution from a Peatland in Zoige, Qinghai–Tibet Plateau
Authors: Chen Xuhui , Su Qianqian , Chen Huai , Xue Dan
Published: November 2021

The impacts of human activities on Zoige peatlands are poorly documented. We determined the concentrations and accumulation rates of As and Hg in a 210Pb-dated peat profile collected from this area and analyzed the correlations between accumulation rates of both As and Hg and other physicochemical properties. To reconstruct recent conditions of As and Hg, we analyzed peat sediments of Re’er Dam peatland in Zoige using 210Pb and 137Cs dating technologies. The concentrations of total As (86.38 to 174.21 μg kg−1) and Hg (7.30 to 32.13 μg kg−1) in the peat profile clearly increased after the first industrial revolution. From AD 1824 to AD 2010, the average accumulation rates were 129.77 μg m−2 yr−1 for As and 18.24 μg m−2 yr−1 for Hg. Based on our results, anthropogenic emissions significantly affected the atmospheric fluxes of As and Hg throughout the past 200 years, and As was also likely to be affected by other factors than atmospheric deposition, which needs further identification by future studies. The historical variations in As and Hg concentrations in Re’er Dam peatland in Zoige mirror the industrial development of China.
Optimization of Land Use Based on the Source and Sink Landscape of Ecosystem Services: A Case Study of Fengdu County in the Three Gorges Reservoir Area, China
Authors: Zhang Haozhe , Yang Qingyuan , Zhang Huiming , Zhou Lulu , Chen Hongji
Published: November 2021

Promoting the preservation and appreciation of ecosystem services is an important value guide for land use optimization. In this research, Fengdu County in the Three Gorges Reservoir Area was selected as the focus of a case study. From the perspective of the source and sink landscape of ecosystem services, a MOP model and FLUS model were used to optimize the areas of various land use types and the spatial configurations of those land use types in the study area in 2035 under a strict ecological constraint (SEC) scenario, a moderate ecological constraint (MEC) scenario, and a relaxed ecological constraint (REC) scenario. We also superimposed and adjusted the results of land use optimization under the three ecological constraint scenarios, and obtained land use regionalization results that integrated multiple scenarios. The results indicated that (1) there were large differences in the areas and spatial distributions of the source and sink landscapes under the three scenarios. Under the SEC scenario, the important source landscapes (ISLs), common source landscapes (CSLs), and sink landscapes (SLs) areas covered 1676.62 km2, 1190.43 km2, and 33.81 km2, respectively. A large area of the CSLs and a small area of the SLs were transformed into ISLs area, and the degree of fragmentation of the landscape was low. Under the MEC scenario, the ISLs, CSLs, and SLs areas covered 1609.22 km2, 1241.60 km2, and 49.74 km2, respectively. The development of the source landscapes and sink landscapes was similar, and the degree of fragmentation was moderate. Under the REC scenario, the ISLs, CSLs, and SLs areas covered 1603.96 km2, 1243.32 km2, and 53.58 km2, respectively. A large area of CSLs was transformed into SLs area, and the degree of fragmentation was high. (2) Fengdu County was divided into seven types of areas: ecological conservation area; agricultural production area; construction optimization area; construction-ecological area; ecological-agricultural area; agricultural-construction area; and integrated development area. The results of this study can provide references for the territorial spatial planning and management of ecological barrier zones.
Dynamic Amazonia: The EU–Mercosur Trade Agreement and Deforestation
Authors: Arima Eugenio , Barreto Paulo , Taheripour Farzad , Aguiar Angel
Published: November 2021

The trade agreement between the European Union and the Mercosur countries will increase deforestation in the Mercosur countries and Brazil, in particular, if ratified by member countries. We use a computable general equilibrium model to analyze how trade, land use, and agricultural production will change as a result of the agreement. We then use a statistical model to spatially allocate the predicted deforestation within the Brazilian Amazon. The models estimate that the agreement will cause additional deforestation in Brazil ranging from 56 to 173 thousand ha to accommodate increases in cropland area, depending on the level of governance, use of double-cropping techniques, and trade elasticity parameters. Most additional deforestation in Amazonia would be clustered near current deforestation hotspot areas. Some hotspots threaten the integrity of Indigenous lands and conservation units. Although a low deforestation scenario with gains in welfare is theoretically possible when high governance and multiple-cropping systems are in place, political challenges remain and cast doubt on Brazil’s ability to rein on illegal deforestation.
Mountain Landscape Preferences of Millennials Based on Social Media Data: A Case Study on Western Sichuan
Authors: Ding Keying , Yang Mian , Luo Shixian
Published: November 2021

Mountain area is one of the most important modern tourist attractions, and unique mountain landscapes are highly appealing to millennials. Millennials post their travel photos and comments on social media, and these media messages can positively influence other millennials’ travel motivations. To fully understand the attraction of mountain tourist destinations to millennials, this study analyzed their landscape preferences using images posted on social media. As a case study, we analyzed the landscape resources in Western Sichuan Plateau Mountain Areas (WSPMA). We found that differences in genders, modes of transportation, and travel patterns of the millennials influenced their preferences for mountain landscapes. Our results broaden the current knowledge on mountain tourism from the perspective of millennials through social media data. Moreover, studying the landscape resources in WSPMA can facilitate the analysis of regional advantages. This will ultimately enhance tourism publicity and integrate various resources for tourism management and planning in more targeted and attractive ways.
Spatial Differentiation of the Socio-Economic Development of Poland–“Invisible” Historical Heritage
Authors: Churski Paweł , Herodowicz Tomasz , Konecka-Szydłowska Barbara , Perdał Robert
Published: November 2021

The analysis aims to identify spatial variations of socio-economic development in Poland at the local level and to determine their correlation with conditions resulting from the historical political divisions of today’s areas of the country. The research procedure helps to verify the hypothesis that spatial differentiation of socio-economic development in Poland is permanent and does not show significant changes during periods of economic growth and crisis. We can emphasize at the same time the persisting differences between cities and their functional areas on the one hand and rural areas on the other. The study applied an innovative procedure of determining the synthetic index. The procedure of classifying local units presented in the text was based on the original random forest method. The outcomes confirm that contemporary spatial diversification at the level of socio-economic development in Poland is still strongly conditioned by history, especially by the socio-economic consequences of the partition of Poland between the three superpowers (Russia, Prussia and Austria). This is evident in the synthetic presentation of the level of socio-economic development. However, in the case of certain socio-economic phenomena, the values of indicators describing them no longer directly relate in their diversity to historical borders, particularly the former partition borders.
Differences in Accessibility of Public Health Facilities in Hierarchical Municipalities and the Spatial Pattern Characteristics of Their Services in Doumen District, China
Authors: Zhang Dahao , Zhang Guojun , Zhou Chunshan
Published: November 2021

This study used the two-step floating catchment area method and potential model to calculate facility accessibility and potential service scope of public health infrastructure distribution, and to evaluate its spatial equity. We applied the Gini coefficient to measure the spatial equilibrium at each level of public health infrastructure in Doumen District, Guangdong, China, from different perspectives. The following results were obtained: (1) Significant spatial differences were observed in the accessibility of public health facilities among different levels; the higher the health facility level, the greater the difference in spatial accessibility. Spatial differences in the accessibility of public health infrastructure at the primary level and higher were distributed in a block-like pattern, while spatial differences in the accessibility of rural health stations were distributed in a circular pattern. Administrative villages tended to have the highest and lowest accessibility of tertiary and secondary hospitals, but not of primary hospitals and rural health stations. The frequencies for administrative villages with the highest and lowest accessibility were 32.8% and 49.6% of the total number of villages in the district, respectively, for tertiary hospitals; 39.2% and 48.8% for secondary hospitals; 19.2% and 24.8% for primary hospitals; 16.8% and 21.6% for rural health stations. (2) The potential service scope was spatially dissociative for tertiary hospitals, and differed more significantly in terms of space for secondary hospitals; the potential service scope of the two overlapped. The potential service scope of primary hospitals was relatively balanced, with strong spatial continuity, while that of rural health service centers was spatially fragmented. The service scope of rural health service centers was mostly consistent with their respective village-level administrative divisions. (3) The higher the level of public health infrastructure, the less balanced its spatial layout. Conversely, the lower the level of public health infrastructure, the more balanced its spatial layout.
Romance and Croatian in Contact: Non-Clitic Auxiliaries in Istro-Romanian
Authors: Dragomirescu Adina , Nicolae Alexandru
Published: November 2021

This paper focuses on Istro-Romanian and argues that the TAM auxiliaries of this variety are not morphophonological clitics. This analysis is supported by the existence of several empirical phenomena (auxiliary-licensed VP-ellipsis, scrambling, and interpolation), some not found in modern Romance, others very rare in modern Romance. This property of Istro-Romanian auxiliary verbs accounts, in conjunction with other features of this variety (e.g., the availability of C-oriented and I-oriented pronominal clitics), for the massive variation in the word order of pronominal clitics, auxiliaries, and the lexical verb found in the Istro-Romanian sentential core. An endangered Romance variety spoken in Istria and in the diaspora, historically related to (Daco-)Romanian, Istro-Romanian has been in contact with Croatian since the settlement of Istro-Romanians in the Istrian peninsula. As some of the Istro-Romanian features and phenomena are found both in Croatian and in old Romanian, it appears that contact with Croatian acts as a catalyst of structural convergence engendering the retention of an archaic property of Istro-Romanian auxiliaries: a lower position on the grammaticalization cline, closer to the full word status of their etyma.
Hierarchical Interfaces as Fracture Propagation Traps in Natural Layered Composites
Authors: Wagner Hanoch Daniel
Published: November 2021

Compared with their monolithic version, layered structures are known to be beneficial in the design of materials, especially ceramics, providing enhanced fracture toughness, mechanical strength, and overall reliability. This was proposed in recent decades and extensively studied in the engineering literature. The source of the property enhancement is the ability of layered structures to deflect and often arrest propagating cracks along internal interfaces between layers. Similar crack-stopping abilities are found in nature for a broad range of fibrillary layered biological structures. Such abilities are largely governed by complex architectural design solutions and geometries, which all appear to involve the presence of various types of internal interfaces at different structural levels. The simultaneous occurrence at several scales of different types of interfaces, designated here as hierarchical interfaces, within judiciously designed layered composite materials, is a powerful approach that constrains cracks to bifurcate and stop. This is concisely described here using selected biological examples, potentially serving as inspiration for alternative designs of engineering composites.
Research on Thermal Error Modeling of Motorized Spindle Based on BP Neural Network Optimized by Beetle Antennae Search Algorithm
Authors: Li Zhaolong , Zhu Bo , Dai Ye , Zhu Wenming , Wang Qinghai , Wang Baodong
Published: November 2021

High-speed motorized spindle heating will produce thermal error, which is an important factor affecting the machining accuracy of machine tools. The thermal error model of high-speed motorized spindles can compensate for thermal error and improve machining accuracy effectively. In order to confirm the high precision thermal error model, Beetle antennae search algorithm (BAS) is proposed to optimize the thermal error prediction model of motorized spindle based on BP neural network. Through the thermal characteristic experiment, the A02 motorized spindle is used as the research object to obtain the temperature and axial thermal drift data of the motorized spindle at different speeds. Using fuzzy clustering and grey relational analysis to screen temperature-sensitive points. Beetle antennae search algorithm (BAS) is used to optimize the weights and thresholds of the BP neural network. Finally, the BAS-BP thermal error prediction model is established. Compared with BP and GA-BP models, the results show that BAS-BP has higher prediction accuracy than BP and GA-BP models at different speeds. Therefore, the BAS-BP model is suitable for prediction and compensation of spindle thermal error.
Deep Self-Organizing Map of Convolutional Layers for Clustering and Visualizing Image Data
Authors: Ferles Christos , Papanikolaou Yannis , Savaidis Stylianos P. , Mitilineos Stelios A.
Published: November 2021

The self-organizing convolutional map (SOCOM) hybridizes convolutional neural networks, self-organizing maps, and gradient backpropagation optimization into a novel integrated unsupervised deep learning model. SOCOM structurally combines, architecturally stacks, and algorithmically fuses its deep/unsupervised learning components. The higher-level representations produced by its underlying convolutional deep architecture are embedded in its topologically ordered neural map output. The ensuing unsupervised clustering and visualization operations reflect the model’s degree of synergy between its building blocks and synopsize its range of applications. Clustering results are reported on the STL-10 benchmark dataset coupled with the devised neural map visualizations. The series of conducted experiments utilize a deep VGG-based SOCOM model.
Sustainable Development Model of EU Cities Compliant with UN Settings
Authors: Karnitis Edvins , Bicevskis Janis , Karnitis Girts , Pukis Maris
Published: November 2021

Nowadays, the globally accepted UN concept of sustainable development (SD) is gradually transferred to the city level, including small and medium-sized cities. The implementation of SD settings requires regular measurement of developmental progress to monitor the level achieved in statics and dynamics, and to make strategic decisions for the next period. The existing urban SD indicator systems and indices are not well-suited for the monitoring of specific cities. Benchmarking algorithms and mathematical modelling procedures were applied to create a methodology and mathematical model for measuring the achieved urban SD level and to ensure the most objective selection and proportions of key performance indicators (KPIs) to be included in the model. The model (1) complies with the UN concept, (2) is usable for any EU city, (3) reflects the level of quality of life achieved, and (4) includes a limited number of KPIs related to municipal functionality. Mathematical computation of the (1) causality between the KPIs, (2) selection and proportions of KPIs, and (3) the general level of urban SD, as well as the reasonable combination of universality, accuracy, stability, and simplicity are strong advantages of the model. Using the published mathematical expressions of the model, calculation of the SD level does not require specific skills; the performed stability test also confirms that annual calibration of the model is not necessary. The index will help municipalities in planning and managing SD, and in the rational use of their usually limited resources. As a pilot project, SD level values are calculated for several cities.
On Bilinear Narrow Operators
Authors: Pliev Marat , Dzhusoeva Nonna , Kulaev Ruslan
Published: November 2021

In this article, we introduce a new class of operators on the Cartesian product of vector lattices. We say that a bilinear operator T:E×F→W defined on the Cartesian product of vector lattices E and F and taking values in a vector lattice W is narrow if the partial operators Tx and Ty are narrow for all x∈E,y∈F. We prove that, for order-continuous Köthe–Banach spaces E and F and a Banach space X, the classes of narrow and weakly function narrow bilinear operators from E×F to X are coincident. Then, we prove that every order-to-norm continuous C-compact bilinear regular operator T is narrow. Finally, we show that a regular bilinear operator T from the Cartesian product E×F of vector lattices E and F with the principal projection property to an order continuous Banach lattice G is narrow if and only if |T| is.
(L,⊙)-Fuzzy (K,E)-Soft Filter
Authors: Abd El-Latif Ahmed Aref , Ramadan Ahmed Abd Elkader
Published: November 2021

In the present study, we preface the notion of the (L,⊙)-fuzzy (K,E)-soft filter and probe many of its characteristics. Using certain operations, we induce (L,⊙)-fuzzy (K,E)-soft topologies from (L,⊙)-fuzzy (K,E)-soft filters. Finally, we introduce the products of the (L,⊙)-fuzzy (K,E)-soft filters and (L,⊙)-fuzzy (K,E)-soft topologies on strictly two-sided commutative quantale lattices (L,⊙) and (L,∗).
Train Bi-Control Problem on Riemannian Setting
Authors: Popa Gabriel , Udriste Constantin , Tevy Ionel
Published: November 2021

This article refers to the optimization of the energy consumption of guided traction rails, such as those used for electric trains (including subway electric units), railcars, locomotives, and trams, in a Riemannian framework. The proposed optimization strategy takes into account the compliance time drive and aims at improving the transport system for given operation conditions. Our study has five targets: (1) improving the optimal control techniques; (2) establishing a strategy for the operating conditions of the vehicle; (3) formulating and solving additional problems of optimal movement; (4) improving automatic systems for vehicle traction to optimize energy consumption in a Riemannian context; (5) formulating and solving a problem of maximizing the profit of the train. Some significant figures and formulas obtained by Maple procedures clarify the problems.
Redundancy Is Not Necessarily Detrimental in Classification Problems
Authors: Grillo Sebastián Alberto , Noguera José Luis Vázquez , Mello Román Julio César Mello , García-Torres Miguel , Facon Jacques , Pinto-Roa Diego P. , Salgueiro Romero Luis Salgueiro , Gómez-Vela Francisco , Paniagua Laura Raquel Bareiro , Correa Deysi Natalia Leguizamon
Published: November 2021

In feature selection, redundancy is one of the major concerns since the removal of redundancy in data is connected with dimensionality reduction. Despite the evidence of such a connection, few works present theoretical studies regarding redundancy. In this work, we analyze the effect of redundant features on the performance of classification models. We can summarize the contribution of this work as follows: (i) develop a theoretical framework to analyze feature construction and selection, (ii) show that certain properly defined features are redundant but make the data linearly separable, and (iii) propose a formal criterion to validate feature construction methods. The results of experiments suggest that a large number of redundant features can reduce the classification error. The results imply that it is not enough to analyze features solely using criteria that measure the amount of information provided by such features.
Machine Learning Techniques Applied to Predict Tropospheric Ozone in a Semi-Arid Climate Region
Authors: Bhuiyan Md Al Masum , Sahi Ramanjit K. , Islam Md Romyull , Mahmud Suhail
Published: November 2021

In the last decade, ground-level ozone exposure has led to a significant increase in environmental and health risks. Thus, it is essential to measure and monitor atmospheric ozone concentration levels. Specifically, recent improvements in machine learning (ML) processes, based on statistical modeling, have provided a better approach to solving these risks. In this study, we compare Naive Bayes, K-Nearest Neighbors, Decision Tree, Stochastic Gradient Descent, and Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) algorithms and their ensemble technique to classify ground-level ozone concentration in the El Paso-Juarez area. As El Paso-Juarez is a non-attainment city, the concentrations of several air pollutants and meteorological parameters were analyzed. We found that the ensemble (soft voting classifier) of algorithms used in this paper provide high classification accuracy (94.55%) for the ozone dataset. Furthermore, variables that are highly responsible for the high ozone concentration such as Nitrogen Oxide (NOx), Wind Speed and Gust, and Solar radiation have been discovered.
Optimal Control of an HIV Model with Gene Therapy and Latency Reversing Agents
Authors: Abernathy Zachary , Abernathy Kristen , Grant Andrew , Hazelton Paul
Published: November 2021

In this paper, we study the dynamics of HIV under gene therapy and latency reversing agents. While previous works modeled either the use of gene therapy or latency reversing agents, we consider the effects of a combination treatment strategy. For constant treatment controls, we establish global stability of the disease-free equilibrium and endemic equilibrium based on the value of R0. We then consider time-dependent controls and formulate an associated optimal control problem that emphasizes reduction of the latent reservoir. Characterizations for the optimal control profiles are found using Pontryagin’s Maximum Principle. We perform numerical simulations of the optimal control model using the fourth-order Runge–Kutta forward-backward sweep method. We find that a combination treatment of gene therapy with latency reversing agents provides better remission times than gene therapy alone. We conclude with a discussion of our findings and future work.
Multi-Omics Analysis of Gene and Protein Candidates Possibly Related to Tetrodotoxin Accumulation in the Skin of Takifugu flavidus
Authors: Feng Huimin , Qiao Kun , Wang Chunchun , Chen Bei , Xu Min , Hao Hua , Huang Zhen , Liu Zhiyu , Wang Qin
Published: November 2021

Pufferfish is increasingly regarded by many as a delicacy. However, the tetrodotoxin (TTX) that accumulates in its body can be lethal upon consumption by humans. TTX is known to mainly accumulate in pufferfish skin, but the accumulation mechanisms are poorly understood. In this study, we aimed to explore the possible mechanism of TTX accumulation in the skin of the pufferfish Takifugu flavidus following treatment with TTX. Through liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis, we detected 37.3% of toxin accumulated in the skin at the end of the rearing period (168 h). Transcriptome and proteome analyses revealed the mechanism and pathways of TTX accumulation in the skin of T. flavidus in detail. Gene ontology and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analyses strongly suggest that cardiac muscle contraction and adrenergic signaling in cardiomyocyte pathways play an important role in TTX accumulation. Moreover, some upregulated and downregulated genes, which were determined via RNA-Seq, were verified with qPCR analysis. This study is the first to use multi-omics profiling data to identify novel regulatory network mechanisms of TTX accumulation in the skin of pufferfish.