bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SPECIFIC FEATURES OF LANDSCAPE SCULPTURE PARKS OF UKRAINE IN VARIOUS SYMPOSIUM MODELS
Authors: Streltsova Maryna
Published: December 2020

The precedent of the Kaniv All­Ukraine Symposium “Shevchenkivsky Park” in 2007 laid the foundation for the formation of a new model of the state symposium of national importance. This in conjunction with the municipal symposia subsequently stimulated the introduction of a private model. The objectives of the research, was through an art­study and comparative analysis; taking a representative sample of sculptural ensembles of state and private symposia to determine their specificity, common features and perspectives.As a result of the study, it is acknowledged that neither state nor private symposium models are benchmarked, since they can`t avoid of unsuccessful works of art in terms of their technical performance; or from the point of view of conformity of their concept; nor can they prevent from making mistakes during installation of a sculptural ensemble. Similarly the state format has the potential for development, under the condition of proper financing and balanced cultural policy of the state and local authorities. The general discrepancies between state and private symposia consists of concepts and exposition principles of symposium sculpture parks. Additionally in case of private sculptural symposia, private or public space is exempted from the integral information mission and gives a chance to use this place for rest and contemplation. This explains the greater percentage of abstract sculptural works in the Kaniv symposia. State symposia raise questions of the ethno­national and cultural identity of Ukrainians, dealing with certain "memory places", therefore, they are called to create interpretive works of art; that mentally and spiritually integrate the recipient into the history of a particular environment.So, in both models; the clear formulation of the communicative task and the definition of the exhibition strategy of various spaces are implied. This is illustrated by the nearby Kaniv parks of symposium sculptures — “Knya­ zhaya Hora” and “Shevchenkivsky Park”.
PAINTING TECHNOLOGY OF ICONS “CHRIST ENTHRONED” AND “BLESSED VIRGIN MARY AND BABY JESUS” (POKROVSKY CHURCH IN PRIORKA) PAINTED BY IVAN S. YIZHAKEVYCH. PROBLEM OF AUTHOR AND NON-AUTHOR RENEWALS
Authors: Shashkova Agneta
Published: December 2020

This article is dedicated to features of the late period in the icon painting of Ivan S. Yizhakevych which coincides with the religion persecution in the USSR as well as features of the study of icons in functional churches.In this paper we have set out the complex analysis of nomadic icons “Blessed Virgin Mary and Baby Jesus” and “Christ Enthroned” from Pokrovsky church in Priorka in Kyiv. By means of the visual research using the concentrated visible light and macro photography technical, technological and painting features of the icon painting have been specified.Based on the study of the painting layer features of the author icon painting style of Mr. Yizhakevych and stylistic features that are typical for his late creative period between 1940 and 1960 have been analyzed.Based on the comparative analysis between the above icons and other icons painted by Mr. Yizhakevych we have specified the attribution and considered the possibility of author icon finishing painting in a given period in order to return brightness to faded areas and restore partially lost ones. The possibility of repainting of separate parts of icons in order to specify dimensions of separate fragments or change in the compositional position of figures is also studied.In this paper we have specified typical techniques of the author style of Ivan S. Yizhakevych used by him for the primary layer of icons and author renewal and the assumption has been made that his students had likely helped him in preparation activities and painted parts of painting that are secondary according to their composition. Based on the analysis of the painting technique and features of Mr. Yizhakevych’s style the assumption have been made that the non-author finishing painting had been made approximately between 1990 and 2000 during one of the thorough repairs of the church.In this paper it has been established that the latter non-author renewals had significantly damaged the appearance of both icons by adding the rude and unprofessional performance to their separate elements which is not typical for the artist; this fact causes major difficulties when considering these icons to be integral works of Ivan S. Yizhakevych.This paper is illustrated by pictures of icons “Blessed Virgin Mary and Baby Jesus” and “Christ Enthroned” as well as their schematic images including the analysis of author and non-author renewals.
INTERACTION OF THE FUNCTIONAL AND PLANNING CHARACTERISTICS OF THE URBAN STRUCTURE
Authors: Skoryk Larisa
Published: December 2020

The article analyzes the main features of the interaction of functional filling and planning urban planning techniques in the central parts of major historical cities in the course of their development. Such an analysis is essential to the choice of optimal reconstructive solutions, with the necessary preservation of the historical and aesthetic value of the urban heritage. Similarly to the influence of the functional purpose of the building on the whole complex of planning and composite solutions, the primary definition of the semantic meaning of urban formation is directly influenced by the drawing and its plan, the logic of the interaction of the main urban planning categories from antiquity to our time. Thus, the main functional designation of medieval European cities as trading, defense and military ports has developed characteristic forms of their plans, optimal for the proper functioning of urban entities. Subsequently, after the destruction of irrelevant fortifications and in the process of territorial growth of cities significantly increases the range and volume of city functions and takes advantage of an open flexible scheme of microstructures in the developed system of the center outside the central core, which should maintain a high rank of historical and cultural emphasis of the city. In order to avoid the phenomena of functional degradation of separate spaces of the center or excessive dynamism of functions capable of distorting the value of historical and architectural substance, it is necessary to estimate the optimal capacity of the city center, that is, the quantitative and qualitative optimum of functions, which can perceive the historical environment without reducing its cultural and aesthetic values due to the harmonious interaction of functional and planning categories. This harmony can be achieved not only by adapting the contents and form of the city center to new needs, but also by adjusting these needs to the optimal possibilities of the historical environment, which may partially offset the comfort of the home by its special advantages.
CURRENT STATUS OF THE NETWORK OF PUBLIC CATERING FACILITIES IN KYIV
Authors: Troshkin Arsenii
Published: December 2020

According to the results of the substantial on-site inspection in 2019, this article shows the analysis of the current status of the network of food facilities in the uptown of Kyiv established in the latter half of the 20th century. Residential areas of Obolon, Pozniaky and Rusanivka have been developed in accordance with almost the same building regulations and have the highest density of population in Kyiv. Considering this fact, exactly these residential areas have been chosen for study.The author of this article were established the establishment of new (considering the time when residential areas were established) types of food facilities, their number, accommodation ratio and tendencies, has defined commons and differences in the accommodation of food facilities in different studied residential areas of Kyiv.In order to study the existing network of public catering facilities, we have considered food facilities forming it at the uptown level in the microdistrict as the nearest food facilities to buildings. The active types of facilities have been studied in each district. All facilities can be divided into two functional groups — by use of food facilities and by time of the food consumption: “fast food” and “leisure food”.During our study we have counted up the number of food sales facilities (food stores, supermarkets, kiosks etc.) which enabled us to specify the modern ratio between food sales facilities and out-of-door food facilities in studied areas. The analysis of the existing network of food facilities in residential areas built up in the latter half of the 20th century has shown dramatic changes in the development of this network in all studied residential areas of Kyiv.This article confirms that in residential areas habitants prefer to eat more at home than in public catering facilities. However, the ratio shows us the tendency that corresponds to the world practice of the food consumption outdoors, reduction in time required for home-based food preparation, although not in such a broad volume.
TRANSFORMATION OF THE KYIV MURALS AND MOSAICS AT THE TURN OF THE 1950–1960S AND THEIR IMPACT ON THE MONUMENTAL PAINTING DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Hryhorov Viktor
Published: December 2020

During twentieth century monumental painting has undergone numerous changes in iconography, stylistics and figurative-plastic language itself. An important milestone was the turn of the '50–'60s. When the artists resorted to active decorative searches and the ways of plane expression.In the 1930–50's, socialist realism became the main pointer for the monumental artist, which was the dominant artistic method at that time. For the most effective use of this method, the artists have been oriented on the realistic and academic principles, filling classical forms with Soviet meaning. Panels become burdensome and suffocated by architectural decoration, the expressiveness of the monumental painting was lost.However, at the end of the '50s monumental painting began to move away from realistic tendencies. A search of new ways of expressions have been proceeded. A search of new ways of expressions proceeded. The impetus for rethinking styling was widely known resolution of November 4, 1955 "About the elimination of redundancies in design and construction. "The document became the peculiar starting point in Soviet architecture as well as monumental painting.According to this resolution aesthetical side had to be solved by organically linking the architectural form to the purpose of the building and established proportion. The task of architects was to work on the creation of standard buildings in simple economic forms.Thus, new opportunities for development in the monumental painting appear. With the formation of new architecture, murals and mosaics are gaining ground for experiments both with materials and figurative-plastic solutions.At the turn of the 60's significant projects were created in Kyiv, among them Kiev River Station (1961), Kiev Bus Station (1961), Shulyavska Subway Station (1963), Metro Restaurant (1963), interior design at The Institute of Plant Physiology and Genetics, NAS of Ukraine (1962), exteriors of the Institute of Plant Protection of the UAAS (1962).
Building a national system of research and graduate education: how did the university become the house of science in Brazil?
Authors: Brasil André
Published: December 2020

The Brazilian science system is a direct result of decades of consistent public policy connecting research and education in ways that are unprecedented in the world. As a unique outcome, most of the science conducted in Brazil takes place within a National System of Graduate Education (SNPG), mainly installed in the country's universities. The present study seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of the system's conception, investigating conjunctures and policy decisions shaping its evolution. Furthermore, the paper will also provide a panorama of the SNPG today: how large is the system; how is it organised and distributed across the country; what are the characteristics of the faculty and student body, and more. The results of this study are essential for Brazilian academics and policymakers, but the unique approach to science and highlevel education in Brazil can serve as an inspiration for the international community, both from its successes and failures.
A fogszabályozó bracketek ragasztásának módszerei, összehasonlításuk a bracketleválási ráta alapján
Authors: Svidró Eszter , Iványi Dóra , Horváth János
Published: December 2020

Fogszabályozó kezelés során sok esetben ív rögzítésére szolgáló bracketeket ragasztanak a fogzománcra. A keletkezőrendszernek ellen kell állnia az egész kezelési idő alatt az elmozdító erőknek (okklúzió, rágóerő, ív ereje), és amikor abracket eltávolításra kerül, lehetőleg sértetlen zománcfelületet kell hátrahagynia maga után. A bracket-ragasztás minőségéta választott technika határozza meg. Célunk a napjainkban használt különböző ragasztási technikák összehasonlítóelemzése a bracket-leválási ráta alapján a következő szempontok szerint: direkt-indirekt módszer, használt bracketragasztóanyagok és a fogzománc előkészítése. A szakirodalmi adatok, vizsgálatok felkutatására a PubMed és a GoogleScholar keresőmotorokat használtuk. Az összehasonlítás kiegészítéseként a Fogászati és Szájsebészeti Oktató Intézetbenfogszabályozó kezelésben résztvevő páciensekről gyűjtöttünk adatokat (direkt technika, kompozit alapú ragasztó,többlépéses zománc kondicionálás). A felhasznált bracketek megrendelési és utánrendelési számai alapján a leválásiráta 4,1%, ami a szakirodalom által elfogadott 10% alatti értéken belül helyezkedik el [24, 6].Összességében a direkt és indirekt bracket-ragasztást összehasonlítva a feldolgozott források alapján nem találtunkszignifikáns eltérést a kétféle módszer között. Ragasztóanyagok tekintetében a legnagyobb kötőerők a kompozit rezinekhasználatakor keletkeznek. A fogzománc hagyományos, többlépéses kondicionálása a legtöbb vizsgálat szerint kisebbleválási rátát eredményez, mint a self-etch rendszerek használata.
A Performance Study of Some Approximation Algorithms for Computing a Small Dominating Set in a Graph
Authors: Li Jonathan , Potru Rohan , Shahrokhi Farhad
Published: December 2020

We implement and test the performances of several approximation algorithms for computing the minimum dominating set of a graph. These algorithms are the standard greedy algorithm, the recent Linear programming (LP) rounding algorithms and a hybrid algorithm that we design by combining the greedy and LP rounding algorithms. Over the range of test data, all algorithms perform better than anticipated in theory, and have small performance ratios, measured as the size of output divided by the LP objective lower bound. However, each have advantages over the others. For instance, LP rounding algorithm normally outperforms the other algorithms on sparse real-world graphs. On a graph with 400,000+ vertices, LP rounding took less than 15 s of CPU time to generate a solution with performance ratio 1.011, while the greedy and hybrid algorithms generated solutions of performance ratio 1.12 in similar time. For synthetic graphs, the hybrid algorithm normally outperforms the others, whereas for hypercubes and k-Queens graphs, greedy outperforms the rest. Another advantage of the hybrid algorithm is to solve very large problems that are suitable for application of LP rounding (sparse graphs) but LP formulations become formidable in practice and LP solvers crash, as we observed on a real-world graph with 7.7 million+ vertices and a planar graph on 1,000,000 vertices.
The Impact of Early Basal Leaf Removal at Different Sides of the Canopy on Aglianico Grape Quality
Authors: Tarricone Luigi , Faccia Michele , Masi Gianvito , Gambacorta Giuseppe
Published: December 2020

It is known that early removal of basal leaves improves the exposure of cluster to direct sunlight and UV radiation, which positively influence the phenolic compounds and anthocyanin concentration of berries. This study was carried out to evaluate the effect of leaf removal applied before flowering to the basal zone of the canopy at different sides (fruit-zone north canopy side, south canopy side and north–south canopy side, respectively) of Aglianico vines trained to vertical shoot position system and row oriented to east–west (EW). The study was conducted in the controlled and guaranteed designation of origin (CGDO) Castel del Monte area (Apulia region, Italy). The treatment did not affect yield per vine, and nor sugar, pH, and total acidity of grapes. When it was applied to the basal south canopy side, the concentration of proanthocyanidins and total polyphenols of grapes increased, as well as antioxidant activity. In particular, anthocyanins content, determined by HPLC, increased by 20% with respect to control when treatment was applied to south and north–south canopy sides. Interaction between season period and treatment was found for all anthocyanins except for petunidin-3-coumaroyl-glucoside. Basal leaf removal applied to the north canopy side caused an increase in malvidin-3-O-glucoside content in grapes in 2016 and 2018, but not in 2017. Our results indicate that basal leaf removal (six basal leaves removed from the base of the shoots) before flowering (BBCH 57) can be used as an effective strategy to improve grape total polyphenols, anthocyanins concentration and antioxidant activity in vineyards cultivated under warm climate conditions. The treatment could represent a sustainable alternative to manual cluster thinning since it does not reduce yield per vine and can be performed mechanically.
Analysing the Structure of the Global Wheat Trade Network: An ERGM Approach
Authors: Gutiérrez-Moya Ester , Lozano Sebastián , Adenso-Díaz Belarmino
Published: December 2020

This paper studies the relationship between wheat trading countries using both descriptive and statistical inference methods for complex networks. The global Wheat Trade Network (WTN) and its evolving topological characteristics is analysed for the periods 2009–2013 and 2014–2018, using the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) data. The network characterisation measures in both periods are rather stable. There are some differences, however, in the magnitude of some measures (e.g., connectivity or disassortativity), and a higher degree of inequality in the distribution of the number of partners and the distribution of trade volume in the period 2014–2018. An Exponential Random Graph Model (ERGM) has been applied to identify significant determinants associated with the presence/absence of trade links between countries. The results indicate that wheat trade links are driven mainly by country openness, reciprocity (mutual importer-exporter relationship), whether the exporting country is US or Canada and the geographical location of importer and exporter. Other factors, such as the economic size of the importing country, if the importing country is US or Canada and the land surface of the exporting country also contribute less to capture interlinkages of WTN.
Influence of Environmental Factors Light, CO2, Temperature, and Relative Humidity on Stomatal Opening and Development: A Review
Authors: Driesen Elisa , Van den Ende Wim , De Proft Maurice , Saeys Wouter
Published: December 2020

Stomata, the microscopic pores surrounded by a pair of guard cells on the surfaces of leaves and stems, play an essential role in regulating the gas exchange between a plant and the surrounding atmosphere. Stomatal development and opening are significantly influenced by environmental conditions, both in the short and long term. The rapid rate of current climate change has been affecting stomatal responses, as a new balance between photosynthesis and water-use efficiency has to be found. Understanding the mechanisms involved in stomatal regulation and adjustment provides us with new insights into the ability of stomata to process information and evolve over time. In this review, we summarize the recent advances in research on the underlying mechanisms of the interaction between environmental factors and stomatal development and opening. Specific emphasis is placed on the environmental factors including light, CO2 concentration, ambient temperature, and relative humidity, as these factors play a significant role in understanding the impact of global climate change on plant development.
Diagnostic Imaging of Cardiovascular Disease in Small Animals
Authors: Diana Alessia , Guglielmini Carlo
Published: December 2020

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) has always been an important field of application for diagnostic imaging in small animal practices and, vice-versa, diagnostic imaging has greatly expanded the diagnostic capabilities of veterinary clinicians dealing with CVD [...]
Inhibition of p300 by Garcinol Protects against Cisplatin-Induced Acute Kidney Injury through Suppression of Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Tubular Cell Death in Mice
Authors: Kim Jung-Yeon , Jo Jungmin , Leem Jaechan , Park Kwan-Kyu
Published: December 2020

Emerging evidence suggests that epigenetic mechanisms such as histone modification are crucially involved in the pathophysiology of acute kidney injury (AKI). The histone acetyltransferase p300 regulates several biological processes through the acetylation of histones or transcription factors. However, the role of p300 in cisplatin-induced AKI remains poorly understood. Therefore, we investigated the effects of garcinol, a potent p300 inhibitor, on cisplatin-induced AKI and explored the mechanisms. Administration of garcinol significantly reversed the upregulation of p300 and increased acetylation of histone H3, along with amelioration of renal dysfunction and histopathological injury in the kidneys of cisplatin-injected mice. Garcinol also attenuated oxidative stress and reduced expression of pro-oxidant enzymes. In addition, garcinol reduced the elevated production of cytokines and chemokines and suppressed immune cell accumulation together with downregulation of vascular adhesion molecules. These beneficial effects of garcinol were associated with a reduction in acetylation of the p65 subunit of nuclear factor kappa-B. Further, garcinol significantly inhibited apoptosis and caspase-3 activation, with a decrease in p53 acetylation in cisplatin-injected mice. Taken together, we demonstrated that the inhibition of p300 by garcinol ameliorated cisplatin-induced renal injury, presumably through epigenetic mechanisms. These results suggest that garcinol might be a potential preventive agent for cisplatin-induced AKI.
Influence of the Location of Ascorbic Acid in Walnut Oil Spray-Dried Microparticles with Outer Layer on the Physical Characteristics and Oxidative Stability
Authors: Cáceres Denisse , Giménez Begoña , Márquez-Ruiz Gloria , Holgado Francisca , Vergara Cristina , Romero-Hasler Patricio , Soto-Bustamante Eduardo , Robert Paz
Published: December 2020

Purified walnut oil (PWO) microparticles with Capsul® (C, encapsulating agent), sodium alginate (SA) as outer layer and ascorbic acid (AA) as oxygen scavenger were obtained by spray drying using a three-fluid nozzle. AA was incorporated in the inner infeed (PWO-C(AA)/SA), in the outer infeed (PWO-C/SA(AA)) and in both infeed (PWO-C(AA)/SA(AA)). PWO-C(AA)/SA (4.56 h) and POW-C(AA)/SA(AA) (2.60 h) microparticles showed higher induction period than POW-C/SA(AA) (1.17 h), and lower formation of triacylglycerol dimers and polymers during storage (40 °C). Therefore, AA located in the inner infeed improved the oxidative stability of encapsulated PWO by removing the residual oxygen. AA in the SA outer layer did not improve the oxidative stability of encapsulated PWO since oxygen diffusion through the microparticles was limited and/or AA weakened the SA layer structure. The specific-location of AA (inner infeed) is a strategy to obtain stable spray-dried polyunsaturated oil-based microparticles for the design of foods enriched with omega-3 fatty acids.
Powerful Plant Antioxidants: A New Biosustainable Approach to the Production of Rosmarinic Acid
Authors: Khojasteh Abbas , Mirjalili Mohammad Hossein , Alcalde Miguel Angel , Cusido Rosa M. , Eibl Regine , Palazon Javier
Published: December 2020

Modern lifestyle factors, such as physical inactivity, obesity, smoking, and exposure to environmental pollution, induce excessive generation of free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the body. These by-products of oxygen metabolism play a key role in the development of various human diseases such as cancer, diabetes, heart failure, brain damage, muscle problems, premature aging, eye injuries, and a weakened immune system. Synthetic and natural antioxidants, which act as free radical scavengers, are widely used in the food and beverage industries. The toxicity and carcinogenic effects of some synthetic antioxidants have generated interest in natural alternatives, especially plant-derived polyphenols (e.g., phenolic acids, flavonoids, stilbenes, tannins, coumarins, lignins, lignans, quinines, curcuminoids, chalcones, and essential oil terpenoids). This review focuses on the well-known phenolic antioxidant rosmarinic acid (RA), an ester of caffeic acid and (R)-(+)-3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl) lactic acid, describing its wide distribution in thirty-nine plant families and the potential productivity of plant sources. A botanical and phytochemical description is provided of a new rich source of RA, Satureja khuzistanica Jamzad (Lamiaceae). Recently reported approaches to the biotechnological production of RA are summarized, highlighting the establishment of cell suspension cultures of S. khuzistanica as an RA chemical biofactory.
Vitamin C Recycling Regulates Neurite Growth in Neurospheres Differentiated In Vitro
Authors: Espinoza Francisca , Magdalena Rocío , Saldivia Natalia , Jara Nery , Martínez Fernando , Ferrada Luciano , Salazar Katterine , Ávila Felipe , Nualart Francisco
Published: December 2020

The reduced form of vitamin C, ascorbic acid (AA), has been related with gene expression and cell differentiation in the cerebral cortex. In neurons, AA is mainly oxidized to dehydroascorbic acid (DHA); however, DHA cannot accumulate intracellularly because it induces metabolic changes and cell death. In this context, it has been proposed that vitamin C recycling via neuron–astrocyte coupling maintains AA levels and prevents DHA parenchymal accumulation. To date, the role of this mechanism during the outgrowth of neurites is unknown. To stimulate neuronal differentiation, adhered neurospheres treated with AA and retinoic acid (RA) were used. Neuritic growth was analyzed by confocal microscopy, and the effect of vitamin C recycling (bystander effect) in vitro was studied using different cells. AA stimulates neuritic growth more efficiently than RA. However, AA is oxidized to DHA in long incubation periods, generating a loss in the formation of neurites. Surprisingly, neurite growth is maintained over time following co-incubation of neurospheres with cells that efficiently capture DHA. In this sense, astrocytes have high capacity to recycle DHA and stimulate the maintenance of neurites. We demonstrated that vitamin C recycling in vitro regulates the morphology of immature neurons during the differentiation and maturation processes.
Intelligent Total Transportation Management System for Future Smart Cities
Authors: Nguyen Dinh Dung , Rohács József , Rohács Dániel , Boros Anita
Published: December 2020

Smart mobility and transportation, in general, are significant elements of smart cities, which account for more than 25% of the total energy consumption related to smart cities. Smart transportation has seven essential sections: leisure, private, public, business, freight, product distribution, and special transport. From the management point of view, transportation can be classified as passive or non-cooperating, semi-active or simple cooperating, active or cooperating, contract-based, and priority transportation. This approach can be applied to public transport and even to passengers of public transport. The transportation system can be widely observed, analyzed, and managed using an extensive distribution network of sensors and actuators integrated into an Internet of Things (IoT) system. The paper briefly discusses the benefits that the IoT can offer for smart city transportation management. It deals with the use of a hierarchical approach to total transportation management, namely, defines the concept, methodology, and required sub-model developments, which describes the total system optimization problems; gives the possible system and methodology of the total transportation management; and demonstrates the required sub-model developments by examples of car-following models, formation motion, obstacle avoidances, and the total management system implementation. It also introduces a preliminary evaluation of the proposed concept relative to the existing systems.
Diagnostic Performance and Radiation Dose of the EOS System to Image Enchondromatosis: A Phantom Study
Authors: Albano Domenico , Loria Alessandro , Fanciullo Cristiana , Bruno Alberto , Messina Carmelo , del Vecchio Antonella , Sconfienza Luca Maria
Published: December 2020

Background: Radiation doses and capability of EOS, conventional radiography (CR), and computed tomography (CT) to detect and measure enchondromas in a dedicated five-year-old anthropomorphic phantom were compared. Methods: To simulate enchondromas, minced pieces of chicken bone and cartilage were packed in conventional kitchen plastic foil to create ovoidal/rounded masses and randomly hung on the phantom. The phantom was imaged five times with CR, CT, and EOS, each time changing the number and position of inserts. All images were reviewed by a senior radiologist and a radiology resident. Results: EOS and CR detected all inserts in 4/5 cases (80%), while in one case 1/17 inserts was not seen. Excellent agreement of EOS with CR (88% reproducibility; bias = 14 mm; repeatability coefficient (CoR) 2.9; 95% CI from −2.8 to 3.1 mm; p = 0.5) and CT (81% reproducibility; bias = 15 mm; CoR 5.2; 95% CI from −5.5 to 5.2 mm; p = 0.7) was found. EOS showed 71% interobserver reproducibility (CoR 7.2; bias = 0.6 mm; 95% CI from −6.6 to 7.8 mm; p = 0.25). The EOS-Fast radiation dose was also significantly lower than the median radiation dose of CR (644.7 (599.4–651.97) mGy•cm2, p = 0.004). Conclusions: Low-dose EOS has the same capability as CR to detect and measure enchondroma-like inserts on a phantom and may be considered to monitor patients with multiple enchondromas.
An Attempt to Reduce the Background Free Radicals in Fingernails for Monitoring Accidental Hand Exposure of Medical Workers
Authors: Gonzales Chryzel Angelica B. , Taño Jolan E. , Yasuda Hiroshi
Published: December 2020

While it is recognized that some medical workers could receive significantly higher radiation doses to their hands than the routinely monitored personal doses, accurate retrospective dosimetry of their hand exposure is still challenging. To solve this issue, a combination of electron spin resonance (ESR) measurement and fingernails is worth to be investigated. However, the application of fingernail ESR dosimetry requires establishing an effective protocol to eliminate the background signal (BKG) which changes due to mechanical stress and other unclear factors, so that the radiation doses would be precisely evaluated from the radiation-induced signals (RIS) only. Thus, the authors investigated possible applications of antioxidants to remove or reduce the BKG in fingernails. In the present study, the effectiveness of chemical treatment using the dithiothreitol (DTT) reducing reagent was examined in irradiated and unirradiated fingernails. Chemically and non-chemically treated fingernails were subsequently exposed to 20 Gy of 137Cs γ-rays and the time changes of the BKG and RIS were confirmed in two different storage conditions: vacuum chamber and freezer. The results show that the non-chemically treated fingernails displayed significant intra-individual variations in the peak-to-peak intensities of both BKG and RIS. RIS from chemically and non-chemically treated samples showed correlations after freezer storage; signals were more stable than the samples stored in the vacuum chamber. Moreover, while the BKG of non-chemically treated samples demonstrated higher levels than those chemically treated, the intra-individual variations were further reduced by the DTT treatment. Our results imply that the use of an antioxidant for hand washing of medical workers prior to starting their work could be effective in reducing the pre-existing free radicals in their fingernails. This also suggests a practical application of hand exposure monitoring using fingernails as a part of radiological emergency preparedness in occupations where radiation or radionuclides are used. Research for finding safer and easier-to-handle antioxidants is to be focused on in future studies.
Air Pollution and Long Term Mental Health
Authors: Kim Younoh , Manley James , Radoias Vlad
Published: December 2020

We study the long-term consequences of air pollution on mental health, using a natural experiment in Indonesia. We find that exposure to severe air pollution has significant and persistent consequences on mental health. An extra standard deviation in the pollution index raises the probability of clinical depression measured 10 years past exposure by almost 1%. Women in particular seem to be more affected, but some effects persist for men as well. Pollution exposure increases the likelihood of clinical depression for women and also the severity of depressive symptoms for both sexes. It is not clear if men are more resistant to pollution or they simply recover faster from it. Education, perceived economic status, and marriage seem to be the best mitigators for these negative effects.
Special Issue Air Quality and Smoke Management
Authors: Goodrick Scott L.
Published: December 2020

The Atmosphere Special Issue “Special Issue Air Quality and Smoke Management” explores our ability to simulate wildland fire smoke events and the potential to link such modeling to future studies of human health impacts [...]
HLA-DRB1*07:01 and *08:02 Alleles Confer a Protective Effect Against ACPA-Positive Rheumatoid Arthritis in a Latin American Admixed Population
Authors: Castro-Santos Patricia , Olloquequi Jordi , Verdugo Ricardo A. , Gutiérrez Miguel A. , Pinochet Carmen , Quiñones Luis A. , Díaz-Peña Roberto
Published: December 2020

HLA-DRB1 shared epitope (SE) alleles are important genetic contributors for the risk of developing anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPA)-positive rheumatoid arthritis (RA), particularly in Caucasians. We aimed to analyze the contribution of HLA-DRB1 alleles and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) region to the susceptibility to develop ACPA-positive RA in a Latin American (LA) population with admixed ancestry. A total of 289 ACPA-positive RA patients and 510 controls were enrolled in this study. The presence of HLA-DRB1*04:01, *09:01 and *10:01 was increased in ACPA-positive RA patients compared with healthy controls (p < 0.0001, p < 0.001 and p < 0.01, respectively), whereas DRB1*07:01 and *08:02 was associated with a decreased risk of ACPA-positive RA (p < 0.001 and p < 0.01, respectively). These results showed a strong correlation with estimates from studies in Asians but not in Caucasian populations. The present study describes the protective effects of the HLA-DRB1*07:01 and *08:02 alleles in ACPA-positive RA patients in a LA population for the first time. Identifying relationships between HLA-DRB1 alleles and RA is important for identifying disease associations in different ethnic groups in order to reach a better understanding of RA worldwide.
Combinatorial Effect of Magnetic Field and Radiotherapy in PDAC Organoids: A Pilot Study
Authors: Nicosia Luca , Alongi Filippo , Andreani Silvia , Ruggieri Ruggero , Rusev Borislav , Mantoan Beatrice , Lawlor Rita Teresa , Pea Antonio , Scarpa Aldo , Agolli Linda , Corbo Vincenzo , D’Agosto Sabrina
Published: December 2020

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is highly refractory to systemic treatment, including radiotherapy (RT) either as alone or in combination with chemotherapy. Magnetic resonance (MR)-guided RT is a novel treatment technique which conjugates the high MR imaging contrast resolution to the possibility of re-adapting treatment plan to daily anatomical variations. Magnetic field (MF) might exert a biological effect that could be exploited to enhance radiation effect. The aim of the present study was to lay the preclinical basis of the MF effect by exploring how it modifies the response to radiation in organoid cultures established from PDAC. The short-term effect of radiation, alone or in combination with MF, was evaluated in patient-derived organoids (PDOs) and monolayer cell cultures. Cell viability, apoptotic cell death, and organoid size following exposure to the treatment were evaluated. PDOs demonstrated limited sensitivity at clinically relevant doses of radiation. The combination of radiation and MF demonstrated superior efficacy than monotherapy in almost all the PDOs tested. PDOs treated with combination of radiation and MF were significantly smaller in size and some showed increased cell death as compared to the monotherapy with radiation. Long-time exposure to 1.5T MF can increase the therapeutic efficacy of radiation in PDAC organoids.
Shockwave Therapy Modulates the Expression of BMP2 for Prevention of Bone and Cartilage Loss in the Lower Limbs of Postmenopausal Osteoporosis Rat Model
Authors: Hsu Shan-Ling , Chou Wen-Yi , Hsu Chieh-Cheng , Ko Jih-Yang , Jhan Shun-Wun , Wang Ching-Jen , Lee Meng-Shiou , Hsu Tsai-Chin , Cheng Jai-Hong
Published: December 2020

Osteoporosis (OP) causes bone loss and weakness, increasing the risk of bone fracture. In this study, rats were divided into Sham, OP, SW(F) (0.25 mJ/mm2 with 1600 impulses to the left medial femur), and SW(T) (0.25 mJ/mm2 with 1600 impulses to the left medial tibia). The bone strength results following SW(T) were better than SW(F) in the modulus, extension at peak load, handleability, and strain at break. SW(T) had the best prevention for bone loss in both lower limbs of ovariectomized (OVX) rats. The cartilage cellular matrixes of both knees were improved in SW(T) and SW(F) compared to that of OP. Serum bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) in rats undergoing SW(T) or SW(F) was significantly improved compared to that in Sham and OP. The expressions of BMP2, BMP4, and SMAD family member 4 (Smad4) in addition to the Wnt family member 3A (Wnt3a) and Cyclin D1 signaling key factors were significantly induced in the cartilage of both knees by shockwave (SW). SW(T) presented the best efficacy to induce serum BMP2 to prevent bone loss from both lower limbs. Here, we display the protective effects of SW therapy to induce BMP2, BMP4, Smad4, Wnt3a, and Cyclin D1 signaling factors for cartilage loss in both knees of OVX rats.
Can Blood-Circulating Factors Unveil and Delay Your Biological Aging?
Authors: Rybtsova Natalia , Berezina Tatiana , Kagansky Alexander , Rybtsov Stanislav
Published: December 2020

According to the World Health Organization, the population of over 60 will double in the next 30 years in the developed countries, which will enforce a further raise of the retirement age and increase the burden on the healthcare system. Therefore, there is an acute issue of maintaining health and prolonging active working longevity, as well as implementation of early monitoring and prevention of premature aging and age-related disorders to avoid early disability. Traditional indicators of biological age are not always informative and often require extensive and expensive analysis. The study of blood factors is a simple and easily accessible way to assess individual health and supplement the traditional indicators of a person’s biological age with new objective criteria. With age, the processes of growth and development, tissue regeneration and repair decline; they are gradually replaced by enhanced catabolism, inflammatory cell activity, and insulin resistance. The number of senescent cells supporting the inflammatory loop rises; cellular clearance by autophagy and mitophagy slows down, resulting in mitochondrial and cellular damage and dysfunction. Monitoring of circulated blood factors not only reflects these processes, but also allows suggesting medical intervention to prevent or decelerate the development of age-related diseases. We review the age-related blood factors discussed in recent publications, as well as approaches to slowing aging for healthy and active longevity.
Bioacoustics Reveal Species-Rich Avian Communities Exposed to Organophosphate Insecticides in Macadamia Orchards
Authors: Crisol-Martínez Eduardo , Moreno-Moyano Laura T. , Horgan Finbarr G.
Published: December 2020

Organophosphates are the most widely used insecticide class in agriculture. The effects of organophosphates on insectivorous birds can potentially reduce the capacity of these birds to regulate insect pest populations as well as jeopardizing the survival of vulnerable bird species in matrix habitats. In this study, we investigated the diversity of birds inhabiting commercial macadamia orchards in Australia and assessed community-wide exposure of birds to an organophosphate insecticide (trichlorfon). We also studied the impact of trichlorfon on arthropods, and how this affected bird activity. We used a novel approach, combining bird acoustic surveys, and three different arthropod trapping devices. Birds and arthropods were surveyed immediately before and after a trichlorfon application, in sprayed and unsprayed orchards, at six different sites. Surveys showed that trichlorfon applications produced no changes in bird activity, either at the species or community level. Only one species (Lichmera indistincta) showed a significant increase in acoustic activity after treatment. These results indicate that several (62) bird species, some of which have been noted as undergoing regional decline, are exposed to trichlorfon applications. Additionally, trichlorfon applications also produced rapid, negative impacts on certain arthropod groups, particularly spiders. Because almost (80%) of the bird species recorded in the study include arthropods in their diets, then arthropod contaminated by trichlorfon are likely consumed by these orchard-dwelling birds. We recommend that pest management should incorporate strategies to reduce wildlife exposure to toxic chemicals to meet the joint goals of crop production and wildlife conservation in structurally complex agricultural habitats.
Developmental Profile of Sleep and Its Potential Impact on Daytime Functioning from Childhood to Adulthood in Sickle Cell Anaemia
Authors: Kölbel Melanie , Kirkham Fenella J. , Dimitriou Dagmara
Published: December 2020

Young individuals with sickle cell anaemia (SCA) experience sleep disturbances and often experience daytime tiredness, which in turn may impact on their daytime functioning and academic attainment, but there are few longitudinal data. Methods: Data on sleep habits and behaviour were taken on the same day as an in-hospital polysomnography. This study assesses the developmental sleep profiles of children and young adults aged 4–23 years old with SCA. We examined retrospective polysomnography (PSG) and questionnaire data. Results: A total of 256 children with a median age of 10.67 years (130 male) were recruited and 179 returned for PSG 1.80–6.72 years later. Later bedtimes and a decrease in total sleep time (TST) were observed. Sleep disturbances, e.g., parasomnias and night waking, were highest in preschool children and young adults at their first visit. Participants with lower sleep quality, more movement during the night and increased night waking experienced daytime sleepiness, potentially an indicator of lower daytime functioning. Factors influencing sleep quantity included age, hydroxyurea prescription, mean overnight oxygen saturation, sleep onset latency, periodic limb movement, socioeconomic status and night waking. Conclusion: Sleep serves an important role for daytime functioning in SCA; hence, quantitative (i.e., PSG for clinical symptoms, e.g., sleep-disordered breathing, nocturnal limb movement) and qualitative (i.e., questionnaires for habitual sleep behaviour) assessments of sleep should be mutually considered to guide interventions.
Documentary Analysis of the Scientific Literature on Autism and Technology in Web of Science
Authors: Carmona-Serrano Noemí , López-Belmonte Jesús , Cuesta-Gómez José-Luis , Moreno-Guerrero Antonio-José
Published: December 2020

The objective of the study is to track the progression of the scientific literature on autism and the technology applied to this disorder. A bibliometric methodology has been used, based on a co-word analysis. The Web of Science database was chosen to perform the analysis of the literature. A unit of analysis of 1048 publications was configured. SciMAT software was used mainly for document analysis. The results indicate that the first studies appeared in 1992, but it was not until 2009 that the research volume increased considerably. The area of knowledge where these studies were compiled was rehabilitation, which marks the truly therapeutic nature of this type of study. One of the authors with the most studies, as well as the most relevant research, was Sarkar, N. Manuscripts were usually research articles written in English. It could be concluded that research in this field of study focused mainly on interventions carried out through the use of technological resources, with students or young people who present with ASD. This line of research, although not the only one, was the most relevant and the one that had aroused the most interest among the scientific community.
Chronic Plasma Exposure to Kinase Inhibitors in Patients with Oncogene-Addicted Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Geraud Arthur , Mezquita Laura , Auclin Edouard , Combarel David , Delahousse Julia , Gougis Paul , Massard Christophe , Jovelet Cécile , Caramella Caroline , Adam Julien , Naltet Charles , Lavaud Pernelle , Gazzah Anas , Lacroix Ludovic , Rouleau Etienne , Vasseur Damien , Mir Olivier , Planchard David , Paci Angelo , Besse Benjamin
Published: December 2020

Kinase inhibitors (KI) have dramatically improved the outcome of treatment in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), which harbors an oncogene addiction. This study assesses KI plasma levels and their clinical relevance in patients chronically exposed to KIs. Plasma samples were collected in NSCLC patients receiving erlotinib, gefitinib, osimertinib, crizotinib, or dabrafenib (with or without trametinib) for at least three months between November 2013 and February 2019 in a single institution. KI drug concentrations were measured by ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry and compared to published data defining optimal plasma concentration. The main outcome was the rate of samples with suboptimal KI plasma concentrations. Secondary outcomes included its impact on T790M mutation emergence in patients receiving a first-generation epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) KI. Fifty-one samples were available from 41 patients with advanced NSCLC harboring driver genetic alterations, including EGFR, v-Raf murine sarcoma viral oncogene homolog B (BRAF), anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) or ROS proto-oncogene 1 (ROS1), and who had an available evaluation of chronic KI plasma exposure. Suboptimal plasma concentrations were observed in 51% (26/51) of cases. In EGFR-mutant cases failing first-generation KIs, EGFR exon 20 p.T790M mutation emergence was detected in 31% (4/13) of samples in optimal vs. none in suboptimal concentration (0/5). Suboptimal plasma concentrations of KIs are frequent in advanced NSCLC patients treated with a KI for at least three months and might contribute to treatment failure.