bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictors of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Shrinkage after Endovascular Repair
Authors: van Rijswijk Rianne E. , Groot Jebbink Erik , Holewijn Suzanne , Stoop Nicky , van Sterkenburg Steven M. , Reijnen Michel M. P. J.
Published: March 2022

Recent studies demonstrate that patients with a shrinking abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), one-year after endovascular repair (EVAR), have better long-term outcomes than patients with a stable AAA. It is not known what factors determine whether an AAA will shrink or not. In this study, a range of parameters was investigated to identify their use in differentiating patients that will develop a shrinking AAA from those with a stable AAA one-year after EVAR. Hundred-seventy-four patients (67 shrinking AAA, 107 stable AAA) who underwent elective, infrarenal EVAR were enrolled between 2011–2018. Long-term survival was significantly better in patients with a shrinking AAA, compared to those with a stable AAA (p = 0.038). Larger preoperative maximum AAA diameter was associated with an increased likelihood of developing AAA shrinkage one-year after EVAR—whereas older age and larger preoperative infrarenal β angle were associated with a reduced likelihood of AAA shrinkage. However, this multivariate logistic regression model was only able to correctly identify 66.7% of patients with AAA shrinkage from the total cohort. This is not sufficient for implementation in clinical care, and therefore future research is recommended to dive deeper into AAA anatomy, and explore potential predictors using artificial intelligence and radiomics.
Low Vertebrobasilar Velocity Is Associated with a Higher Risk of Posterior Circulation Ischemic Lesions
Authors: Chan Po-Chi , Huang Hua-Si , Chen Kuan-Wen , Chi Hsin-Yi
Published: March 2022

Background: Transcranial color-coded sonography (TCCS) is used as a real-time tool to evaluate patients suspected of having vertebrobasilar insufficiency (VBI). However, the sonographic criteria for VBI remain inconclusive. The purpose of this study was to analyze the velocity in the vertebrobasilar system, which links the risk for posterior circulation infarction (POCI) and total ischemic stroke (TIS) in patients with VBI. Methods: Patients’ data were retrospectively reviewed if they were suspected of having VBI within a 2-year period. Baseline characteristics, brain images, and a series of sonography data were recorded and analyzed. We compared vertebrobasilar (VB) velocities in different age groups and in patients with infarctions. Results: A total of 875 patients were enrolled, with 112 and 427 candidates in the POCI and TIS groups, respectively. The mean velocity (MV)s of BA and bilateral VAs were all negatively correlated with age (all p < 0.001). The adjusted odds ratio was 2.55 (1.58–4.13, p < 0.001) in POCI and 1.75 (1.15–2.67, p = 0.009) in TIS if the mean velocity of the VB arteries was below 15 cm/s. Conclusions: Low VB velocity detected in TCCS was more commonly associated with ageing-related changes and a higher risk of both POCI and TIS. Recognition and aggressive treatment for these patients are necessary.
Polymer/Graphene Nanocomposite Membranes: Status and Emerging Prospects
Authors: Kausar Ayesha , Bocchetta Patrizia
Published: March 2022

Graphene is a unique nanocarbon nanomaterial, frequently explored with polymeric matrices for technical purposes. An indispensable application of polymer/graphene nanocomposites has been observed for membrane technology. This review highlights the design, properties, and promising features of the polymer/graphene nanomaterials and nanocomposite membranes for the pervasion and purification of toxins, pollutants, microbials, and other desired contents. The morphology, pore size, pore structure, water flux, permeation, salt rejection, and other membrane properties are examined. Graphene oxide, an important modified form of graphene, is also utilized in nanocomposite membranes. Moreover, polymer/graphene nanofibers are employed to develop high-performance membranes for methodological purposes. The adaptability of polymer/graphene nanocomposites is observed for water management and purification technologies.
Manufacturing of Biocomposites for Domestic Applications Using Bio-Based Filler Materials
Authors: Shaik Shameem Akthar , Schuster Jens , Shaik Yousuf Pasha , Kazmi Monis
Published: March 2022

Filler materials are considered added value (volume) to composite materials. The addition of filler materials leads to altering the material characteristics. Nowadays, there has been a notable increase in bio-based materials in polymers and polymer composites. In this regard, agricultural wastes (low-cost renewable substrates) are used as filler content to prepare bioplastic composites, as they are available plenty in quantity and economical in price. Bioplastics composite samples are compounded by adding different amounts of eggshell powder and walnut shell powder in weight proportion to the plasticized PLA. The plasticization is realized with 5 wt.% of Epoxidized Soybean Oil. The prepared bioplastic granules are further processed by injection molding to dog bone-shaped samples subjected to different mechanical, thermal, and optical microscopy tests. Mechanical tests such as Tensile, Charpy Impact, and Flexural tests yielded decreased properties compared to virgin PLA. However, the properties of plasticized PLA–ES composite showed better results than plasticized PLA–WS composite.
Electromyographic Analysis of the Lumbar Extensor Muscles during Dynamic Exercise on a Home Exercise Device
Authors: Mayer John M. , Udermann Brian E. , Verna Joe L.
Published: March 2022

Resistance exercise with devices offering mechanisms to isolate the lumbar spine is effective to improve muscle strength and clinical outcomes. However, previously assessed devices with these mechanisms are not conducive for home exercise programs. The purpose of this study was to assess the surface electromyographic (EMG) activity of the lumbar extensor muscles during dynamic exercise on a home back extension exercise device. Ten adults (5 F, 5 M) performed dynamic lumbar extension exercise on a home device at three loads: 1.00 × body weight (BW), 1.25 × BW and 1.50 × BW. Surface EMG activity from the L3/4 paraspinal region was collected. The effect of exercise load, phase of movement, and position in the range of motion on lumbar extensor EMG activity (normalized to % maximum voluntary isometric contraction) was assessed. Lumbar extensor EMG activity significantly increased from 1.00 BW to 1.50 BW loads (p = 0.0006), eccentric to concentric phases (p < 0.0001), and flexion to extension positions (p < 0.0001). Exercise using a home back extension exercise device progressively activates the lumbar extensor muscles. This device can be used for home-based resistance exercise programs in community-dwelling adults without contraindications.
Spatial and Temporal Variations of Chlorophyll a and Primary Productivity in the Hangzhou Bay
Authors: Wang Yiheng , Chen Jianfang , Zhou Feng , Zhang Wei , Hao Qiang
Published: March 2022

The Hangzhou Bay (HZB) is an important part of the Zhoushan fishing ground, the most productive region in the Eastern China Seas. Although HZB remains eutrophication all year round, its chlorophyll a (Chl) and primary productivity (PP) are usually significantly lower than those in the adjacent waters. In the present study, we presented the Chl and PP distributions in the HZB and analyzed their correlations with environmental factors in four seasons. The field observation showed that Chl and PP had significant seasonal variations, and was highest in the summer (1.66 ± 0.61 mg·m−3 and 12.11 ± 12.25 mg C·m−3·h−1, respectively). Total suspended matters (TSM) concentration was the key environmental factor that constrains PP in the study area. High concentration of TSM reduced light exposure (LE, the annual mean value was 0.92 ± 0.81 Einstein·m−2·day−1) in the mixed layer of the HZB, which was much lower than the saturated light intensity of phytoplankton growth, and thus caused a strong light limitation in the HZB. However, the seasonal variations in the photosynthesis rates (PB) and Chl did not coincide. This fact suggested that the growth rate was not the only factor controlling seasonal variations of phytoplankton biomass. In winter, the very high TSM and strong mixing might reduce the zooplankton grazing rate, and lead to a relatively high concentration of Chl during the very low LE and PB period. These results implied that, in the HZB, the extremely turbid water could affect both phytoplankton growth and loss, which was probably the major mechanism responsible for the complex phytoplankton spatial and temporal variations.
Post-Nourishment Changes of an Artificial Gravel Pocket Beach Using UAV Imagery
Authors: Tadić Andrea , Ružić Igor , Krvavica Nino , Ilić Suzana
Published: March 2022

Monitoring and analysis of changes in the volume and area of nourished beaches is crucial to inform any beach renourishment programme. The aim of this study is to utilise UAV surveys and SfM photogrammetry to assess the beach nourishment performance of an artificial gravel beach exposed to a range of external forcing, including storms. The paper presents results from nineteen UAV surveys conducted between January 2020 and January 2021 at Ploče, an artificial beach in Rijeka (Croatia). The beach was nourished twice and eleven storm events, ranging from weak to strong, were recorded during this period. The Agisoft Metashape software was used to obtain point clouds and digital elevation models (DEMs) from UAV images; Matlab and CloudCompare were used for further analysis of the DEMs. The accuracy and precision of the DEMs was assessed and uncertainty levels of ±5 cm were applied to all derived DEMs. The study provides new insights into the response of the emerged part of the beach to storms. Predictably, the largest changes were recorded after the first storm following beach nourishment. The longshore variability in the beach response to storms was identified from full 3D point clouds. Most of the lost sediment was from the east side of the beach, while the rest of the beach aligned with the predominant wave direction through cross-shore and longshore processes. Offshore/onshore sediment exchange between the lower and upper beach face on the western side manifested itself in beach profile steepening and berm formations. Overall, changes in beach volume and area were small, indicating that this artificial beach is relatively stable. The embayed layout following the natural coastal configuration appears to be effective in retaining nourished sediment on the beach. This work highlights the need to consider pocket embayed beaches in three dimensions, as traditional transect studies can overlook the three-dimensional behaviour. This study also highlighted the wider potential of UAVs and SfM for studies of high-resolution elevation changes on natural and artificial beaches, as well as for coastal monitoring of beach nourishment.
Mussels Repair Shell Damage despite Limitations Imposed by Ocean Acidification
Authors: George Matthew N. , O’Donnell Michael J. , Concodello Michael , Carrington Emily
Published: March 2022

Bivalves frequently withstand shell damage that must be quickly repaired to ensure survival. While the processes that underlie larval shell development have been extensively studied within the context of ocean acidification (OA), it remains unclear whether shell repair is impacted by elevated pCO2. To better understand the stereotypical shell repair process, we monitored mussels (Mytilus edulis) with sublethal shell damage that breached the mantle cavity within both field and laboratory conditions to characterize the deposition rate, composition, and integrity of repaired shell. Results were then compared with a laboratory experiment wherein mussels (Mytilus trossulus) repaired shell damage in one of seven pCO2 treatments (400–2500 µatm). Shell repair proceeded through distinct stages; an organic membrane first covered the damaged area (days 1–15), followed by the deposition of calcite crystals (days 22–43) and aragonite tablets (days 51–69). OA did not impact the ability of mussels to close drill holes, nor the microstructure, composition, or integrity of end-point repaired shell after 10 weeks, as measured by µCT and SEM imaging, energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis, and mechanical testing. However, significant interactions between pCO2, the length of exposure to treatment conditions, the strength and inorganic content of shell, and the physiological condition of mussels within OA treatments were observed. These results suggest that while OA does not prevent adult mussels from repairing or mineralizing shell, both OA and shell damage may elicit stress responses that impose energetic constraints on mussel physiology.
Evaluation of Indigenous Candida oleophila and Candida boidinii in Monoculture and Sequential Fermentations: Impact on Ethanol Reduction and Chemical Profile in Chilean Sauvignon Blanc Wines
Authors: Benavides Sergio , Franco Wendy , Ceppi De Lecco Consuelo , Durán Angélica , Urtubia Alejandra
Published: March 2022

The study of non-Saccharomyces yeasts in wine fermentations allows the exploration of new alternatives for the reduction of ethanol in wines. The objective of this work was to evaluate the fermentation capacity of two indigenous Candida yeasts (C. oleophila and C. boidinii) in monoculture and sequential fermentations (laboratory and microvinification scale) to produce Chilean Sauvignon Blanc wine. Fermentations were monitored by the determination of ethanol, glycerol, organic acids, and residual sugars. The results indicated that at the laboratory scale for both the monoculture and sequential fermentations it was possible to reduce the ethanol concentration on 0.77% v/v (monoculture) and 1.5% v/v (sequential) for C. oleophila and 0.50% v/v (monoculture) and 0.04% v/v (sequential) for C. boidinii compared to S. cerevisiae (12.87% v/v). Higher glycerol concentrations were produced in monoculture than sequential fermentations (C. oleophila: 9.47 g/L and C. boidinii 10.97 g/L). For microvinifications, the monoculture and sequential fermentations with C. boidinii managed to reduce ethanol content by 0.17% v/v and 0.54% v/v, respectively, over the S. cerevisiae control (13.74% v/v). In the case of C. oleophila, the reduction was only observed in sequential fermentations with 0.62% v/v. Interestingly, grapes with higher sugar concentration resulted in wines with lees ethanol concentrations. This might be associated to the use of C. oleophila (13.12% v/v) and C. boidinii (13.20% v/v) in sequential fermentations microvinification scale.
Post-Stroke Depression and Cognitive Aging: A Multicenter, Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Shin Minyoung , Sohn Min Kyun , Lee Jongmin , Kim Deog Young , Shin Yong-Il , Oh Gyung-Jae , Lee Yang-Soo , Joo Min Cheol , Lee So Young , Song Min-Keun , Han Junhee , Ahn Jeonghoon , Lee Young-Hoon , Chang Won Hyuk , Shin Seyoung , Choi Soo Mi , Lee Seon Kui , Kim Yun-Hee
Published: March 2022

Background: This study investigated the impact of post-stroke depression (PSD) on cognitive aging in elderly stroke patients. Methods: This study was an interim analysis of the Korean Stroke Cohort for Functioning and Rehabilitation. Among 10,636 patients with first-ever stroke, a total of 3215 patients with normal cognitive function three months post-stroke were included in the analysis. PSD was defined using the Korean Geriatric Depression Scale Short Form (K-GDS-SF) at three months. Cognitive aging was defined as a decline in the Korean version of the Mini-Mental Status Examination (K-MMSE) score to less than the second percentile. Results: The hazard ratio (HR) of PSD for cognitive decline was 2.16 (95% CI, 1.34–3.50, p < 0.01) in the older group (age ≥65 years), and 1.02 (95% CI, 0.50–2.07, n.s.) in the younger group (age <65 years). When the older group was divided by sex, the HR was 2.50 (95% CI, 1.26–4.96, p < 0.01) in male patients and 1.80 (95% CI, 0.93–3.51, n.s.) in female patients. However, women showed a higher incidence of cognitive decline in both the PSD and no PSD groups. Among K-GDS-SF factors, “Negative judgment about the past, present, and future” increased the HR of PSD in older male patients. Conclusions: Early PSD increased the HR for cognitive decline in older stroke patients, mainly in males. Specifically, older male patients with negative thinking were at increased risk of cognitive decline. The findings also suggest that older women may be at risk for cognitive decline. Therefore, preventive interventions for cognitive decline should be tailored differently for men and women.
Resistin and IL-15 as Predictors of Invasive Mechanical Ventilation in COVID-19 Pneumonia Irrespective of the Presence of Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Perpiñan Carles , Bertran Laia , Terra Ximena , Aguilar Carmen , Binetti Jessica , Lopez-Dupla Miguel , Rull Anna , Reverté Laia , Yeregui Elena , Gómez-Bertomeu Frederic , Peraire Joaquim , Auguet Teresa ,   on behalf of COVID-19 Study Group
Published: March 2022

The cytokine signature present in COVID-19 could provide information on the pathogenic mechanisms of the disease and could identify possible prognostic biomarkers and possible therapeutic targets. In this longitudinal work, we studied the clinical and biochemical parameters and circulating cytokine levels of 146 patients at the time of admission for COVID-19 and 4–6 weeks later. The main objective of this study was to determine whether basal cytokines could be early prognostic biomarkers of COVID-19, and also to analyze the impact of comorbidities, such as obesity or metabolic syndrome (MS), in the cytokine profile. The levels of most inflammatory cytokines were elevated on admission in relation to the level that was reached 4–6 weeks later, except for IL-1β, which was lower on admission; these levels were irrespective of the presence of obesity or MS since the cytokine storm masks these inflammatory processes. Among the cytokines analyzed, those that correlated with a worse prognosis of COVID-19 were resistin, IL-6, IL-8, IL-15, MCP-1 and TNF-α. Specifically, resistin and IL-15 are the best early predictors of requiring invasive ventilation. Therefore, resistin and IL-15 should be included in the personalized treatment decision algorithm of patients with COVID-19.
The Effect of Monetary Policy and Private Investment on Green Finance: Evidence from Hungary
Authors: Desalegn Goshu , Fekete-Farkas Maria , Tangl Anita
Published: March 2022

The objective of this study was to examine the effect of monetary policy and private investment on green finance in the case of Hungary. The study used an explanatory research design and a quantitative research approach. Quarterly secondary time series data over 8 years (2013–2020) were utilized. More specifically, the study used Johnson co-integration test and vector error correction model to investigate the long and short-run relationship among variables. The study’s findings imply that monetary policy, as measured by interest rates and the broad money supply, has a mixed effect on the level of green financing. Interest rates, in particular, have a negative and significant relationship with green finance in both the long and short run. However, a broad money supply has a positive but insignificant relationship with green finance in the long run. Private investment has a positive and significant relationship with green financing in both the long and short run. The study also used inward and outward foreign direct investment, and greenhouse gas as a control variable of the study. The study finding implies that inward foreign direct investment has a positive and significant relationship with green financing in both the long and short run. On the other hand, outward foreign direct investment and the level of greenhouse gas have a negative and significant relationship with green finance in both the long and short run. The study also discovered that over time series, disturbance in domestic private investment was the most determinant factor in forecast error variance of green financing. In addition, the result of document analysis shows that the majority of Hungarian credit institutions are dealing with their corporate strategy rather than their sustainability strategy. Hence, progressive approaches are needed from the credit institution to frame their strategy under the concept of sustainable development goals. The finding of this study will contribute to the existing literature on the study area, provide suggestions on green finance and green monetary policy approaches, provide implications on key stakeholders of green financing, as well as the experience of different economies. The study advises central banks, credit institutions, and regulatory authorities to consider both neoliberal and reformist approaches of green finance and green monetary policies in aid to increase green investment.
The Use of Soil Conditioners to Ensure a Sustainable Wheat Yield under Water Deficit Conditions by Enhancing the Physiological and Antioxidant Potentials
Authors: Ejaz Muhammad , Aurangzaib Muhammad , Iqbal Rashid , Shahzaman Muhammad , Habib-ur-Rahman Muhammad , El-Sharnouby Mohamed , Datta Rahul , Alzuaibr Fahad , Sakran Mohamed , Ogbaga Chukwuma , EL Sabagh Ayman
Published: March 2022

Traditional mulch material (farmyard manure) has long been used in agriculture. However, recent developments have also introduced the scientific community and farmers to advanced chemicals such as potassium polyacrylamide (KPAM), which has revolutionised the concept of the soil water-holding capacity to many compared with other materials being used. To compare the effect of different organic and inorganic soil amendment materials under water stress conditions, a two-year (2018 and 2019) field study was conducted. The main plots consisted of irrigation treatments, i.e., I0 (control irrigation), I1 (drought-induced by skipping irrigation at the 4th leaf stage), and I2 (drought-induced by skipping irrigation at the anthesis stage). The subplots included a control treatment and soil amended with different conditioners such as potassium polyacrylamide (KPAM, 30 kg/ha), farmyard manure (FYM, 4 tons/ha), and biochar (10 tons/ha); these were mixed thoroughly with the soil before sowing. The results showed a significant reduction in the water relation parameters (water potential up to 35.77% and relative water content up to 21%), gas exchange parameters (net CO2 assimilation rate up to 28.85%, stomatal conductance up to 43.18%, and transpiration rate up to 49.07%), and yield attributes (biological yield up to 8.45% and grain yield up to 32.22%) under drought stress conditions. In addition, water stress also induced an increase in the synthesis of osmoprotectants (proline up to 77.74%, total soluble sugars up to 27.43%, and total free amino acids up to 11.73%). Among all the soil conditioners used, KPAM significantly reduced the negative effects of drought stress on the wheat plants. Thus, it could be concluded that the use of soil conditioners is a promising method for dealing with the negative consequences of drought stress for achieving sustainable crop yields.
Ecological and Syntaxonomic Analysis of Pinus halepensis Mill. in the Iberian Peninsula and Balearic Islands
Authors: Cano Eusebio , Cano-Ortiz Ana , Fuentes José Carlos Piñar , Quinto-Canas Ricardo , Igbareyeh Jehad , del Río Sara , Gomes Carlos José Pinto
Published: March 2022

This work aims to review the natural communities of Pinus halepensis in Spain. The methodology consisted of subjecting 400 phytosociological relevés to georeferencing and statistical, biogeographical, and bioclimatic treatment. We analyse the communities of Pinus halepensis on the Iberian Peninsula and Balearic Islands. Five syntaxa with association rank are described in several works and included in the alliances Rhamno-Quercion and Oleo-Ceratonion. Ephedro-Pinetum halepensis was initially proposed as a community by Torres et al. and subsequently raised to the rank of association by Rivas-Martínez et al. In this work, we have separated the plant communities dominated by Pinus halepensis, which was previously included in other syntaxa, and as a result, we propose four new associations and a new alliance for the Iberian Peninsula: ass. Bupleuro rigidi-Pinetum halepensis; ass. Ephedro nebrodensis-Pinetum halepensis; ass. Rhamno angustifoliae-Pinetum halepènsis; ass. Rhamno laderoi-Pinetum halepensis; all. Rhamno lycioidis-Pinion halepensis. In view of the fact that some of the communities have been published as edaphoxerophilous and climatophilous, we suggest separating the climatophilous from the edaphoxerophilous character in the diagnosis of the communities, and have therefore recently proposed the ombroedaphoxeric index Ioex (Ioex = Pp − e/Tp × CR), which considers positive precipitation Pp, positive temperature Tp, residual evapotranspiration (e), and water retention capacity CR (0.25, 0.50, 0.75). In conclusion, we propose the associations mentioned above, which will allow the implementation of a reforestation treatment in accordance with the natural environment.
Role of Cultural Tendency and Involvement in Heritage Tourism Experience: Developing a Cultural Tourism Tendency–Involvement–Experience (TIE) Model
Authors: Xu Li , Zhang Jie , Nie Zhenghu
Published: March 2022

Tourists’ attitudes, especially when searching with a cultural tendency, can influence the tourism experience in cultural heritage tourism. Based on the cultural contact theory and tourist involvement theory, we try to reveal the tie or the relationship between local culture and tourism. Here, we define cultural tendency as the extent to which tourists positively intend to learn about the culture of the destination. Then, we examined the roles of cultural tendency, involvement, tourist experience, and satisfaction in heritage tourism and proposed a tendency–involvement–experience (TIE) model. Using a questionnaire with tourists in Mogao Caves, a world heritage site, we found that cultural tendency through involvement enhanced tourism experience and satisfaction. Moreover, the tendency of different cultures had various effects on tourists’ experiences. Prior knowledge did not play a moderating role on the relationship among cultural tendency and involvement. The findings underscore the importance of cultural tendency in creating experiences, and heritage tourism must address tourists’ preferences for a better experience.
Conservation Prioritization in a Tiger Landscape: Is Umbrella Species Enough?
Authors: Vasudeva Vaishali , Upgupta Sujata , Singh Ajay , Sherwani Nazrukh , Dutta Supratim , Rajaraman Rajasekar , Chaudhuri Sankarshan , Verma Satyam , Johnson Jeyaraj Antony , Krishnamurthy Ramesh
Published: March 2022

Conservation approaches in tiger landscapes have focused on single species and their habitat. Further, the limited extent of the existing protected area network in India lacks representativeness, habitat connectivity, and integration in the larger landscape. Our objective was to identify sites important for connected tiger habitat and biodiversity potential in the Greater Panna Landscape, central India. Further, we aimed to set targets at the landscape level for conservation and prioritize these sites within each district in the landscape as specific management/conservation zones. We used earth observation data to derive an index of biodiversity potential. Marxan was used to identify sites that met tiger and biodiversity conservation targets with minimum costs. We found that to protect 50% of the tiger habitat with connectivity, 20% of the landscape area must be conserved. To conserve 100% of high biodiversity potential, 50% moderate biodiversity potential, and 25% low biodiversity potential, 55% of the landscape area must be conserved. To represent both tiger habitat and biodiversity, 62% of the total landscape area requires conservation or restoration intervention. The prioritized zones can prove significant for hierarchical decision making, involving multiple stakeholders in the landscape, including other tiger range areas.
Evaluating the Impact of the Influx of Syrian Refugees on Land Use/Land Cover Change in Irbid District, Northwestern Jordan
Authors: Al Shogoor Sattam , Sahwan Wahib , Hazaymeh Khaled , Almhadeen Eman , Schütt Brigitta
Published: March 2022

The refugee movement creates urban and environmental pressures at their destination locations. This pressure often presents in the form of Land Use/Land Cover (LULC) change. This study seeks to understand the impact of the Syrian refugees’ influence on changing the urban and agricultural land dynamics in Irbid district in northwestern Jordan from 1985 to 2021, including the period of the civil war in Syria, using Landsat Thematic Mapper (TM) images for the years 1985 and 2004, and the Landsat-8 Operational Land Imager (OLI) for the years 2013 and 2021. The Google Earth Engine (GEE) platform was used to conduct all image processing and perform calculations and classification analysis using the Random Forest (RF) approach. The study of the classified images compared LULC before and during the Syrian crisis using images from 1985, 2004, 2013, and 2021. The results show that the urban area increased. In parallel, agricultural land increased. During the Syrian refugee crisis, agriculture became a significant livelihood activity for Syrian refugees. In summary, the movement of the refugees to Irbid district caused an increased demand for land and housing, which accelerated the building and construction process.
“Świdermajer”, the Architecture of Historic Wooden Summer Villas in the Polish Landscape: A Study of Distinctive Features
Authors: Górski Marcin , Lach Wiktor
Published: March 2022

The article covers the results of the study of a historical wooden holiday architectural ensemble called Świdermajer, located on the outskirts of Warsaw in Poland. The fashion for traveling and resting within natural surroundings emerged in the 19th century, contributing to the popularization of a new model of spending free time. It had an impact on the development of a new type of architecture, including the “Swiss style”, today representing an extremely picturesque European architectural heritage integrated into the landscape. The area of Otwock is one of a very few of such places in Poland, where the entire complexes of suburban wooden holiday buildings from the late 19th and early 20th century have survived. This paper aims to show an overview of a development of the local wooden building trend on the “Otwock Line” within its historical and social background. The main goal of the study focuses on identifying the characteristic features of the architectural wooden local style. As a final outcome of the study, the article presents the method applied for the recording and assessment of historic wooden summer villas. The conducted study confirmed the distinctiveness of the phenomenon represented by cultural values and, at the same time, its strong links with the Alpine style of architecture.
The Restoration of St. James’s Church in Como and the Cathedral Museum as Agents for Sustainable Urban Planning Strategies
Authors: Della Torre Stefano , Rajabi Mehrnaz
Published: March 2022

This paper aims at exploring the implementation of sustainability concepts in the Historic Preservation field. It delves into the multiple roles of cultural heritage in fostering and empowering sustainable development processes, understanding cultural heritage as a laboratory for (urban) innovation/creativity. In this sense, conservation is no longer explored within the traditional disciplinary borders, but it investigates the ways of contributing to the economy and society. This article pursues the Walled City of Como as a case study due to the opportunity of introducing the program of a new museum into the complexity of Como’s historic center. Recently, the center itself has undergone such studies/policies and applied conservation theories/practices. Furthermore, the historic center of Como was analyzed based on a multifaceted literature screening, gathering data on the tourism and real estate trends. In those studies, the crucial role that cultural heritage could take for urban development has been outlined, specifically as an enabler of controlling agencies for gentrification and commodification tendencies and fostering integration and collaboration among the key stakeholders. In terms of implementation of Sustainable Development Goals in the heritage field, the main lesson emerging from the case study is “integration” as a critical tool for such strategies’ feasibility.
Hypercorrection as a Symptom of Language Change: Majorcan Catalan Standard Pronunciation
Authors: Dols Nicolau
Published: March 2022

The mutual influence between dialects and standard language in terms of upward or downward convergence, the creation of a diaglossic repertoire, and a typology of relations dialects/standard is of utmost importance for the analysis of language evolution. Majorcan Catalan is an eastern Catalan dialect, traditionally considered as archaic. Data from television programs show a tendency to adapt pronunciation to a standard mainly based on central Catalan dialects, even disregarding concessions granted by the prescriptive grammar. This article is focused on the causes of this centripetal movement and on the function either accelerating or decelerating of (para)prescriptive works in the process. Data from an annotated oral corpus (Corpus Oral de la Llengua Catalana) are used. The results are consistent with a centripetal movement in the construction of the standard Catalan as used in formal registers in the Balearic Islands. A proposal is made for the interpretation of the relevant data as evidence of an evolution from a gliding access to standard to a shifting access.
Preface
Authors: Bettega Simone , Morano Roberta
Published: March 2022

To seek for knowledge is to strive for systematization [...]
More than Relata Refero: Representing the Various Roles of Reported Speech in Argumentative Discourse
Authors: Gobbo Federico , Benini Marco , Wagemans Jean H. M.
Published: March 2022

Reported speech, or relata refero, although not always part of the argumentation tout court, can be an important element of argumentative discourse. It might, for instance, provide information on the position of another party in the discussion or function as part of the premise of an argument from authority. Whereas existing methods of representing argumentative discourse focus on arguments and their interrelations, this paper develops a method that enables the analyst to also include informative elements in the representation, focusing on reported speech. It does so by incorporating the notion of ‘voice’ into the representation framework of Adpositional Argumentation (AdArg). In particular, the paper explains how to formalize the constituents of this notion and illustrates its use in representing (1) an author’s report of the position of another party (including the supporting argumentation); (2) an author’s own position (including the supporting argumentation); and (3) source-based arguments such as the argument from authority, with an indication of the distance of the source from the author.
Domesticated LTR-Retrotransposon gag-Related Gene (Gagr) as a Member of the Stress Response Network in Drosophila
Authors: Nefedova Lidia , Gigin Alexey , Kim Alexander
Published: March 2022

The most important sources of new components of genomes are transposable elements, which can occupy more than half of the nucleotide sequence of the genome in higher eukaryotes. Among the mobile components of a genome, a special place is occupied by retroelements, which are similar to retroviruses in terms of their mechanisms of integration into a host genome. The process of positive selection of certain sequences of transposable elements and retroviruses in a host genome is commonly called molecular domestication. There are many examples of evolutionary adaptations of gag (retroviral capsid) sequences as new regulatory sequences of different genes in mammals, where domesticated gag genes take part in placenta functioning and embryogenesis, regulation of apoptosis, hematopoiesis, and metabolism. The only gag-related gene has been found in the Drosophila genome—Gagr. According to the large-scale transcriptomic and proteomic analysis data, the Gagr gene in D. melanogaster is a component of the protein complex involved in the stress response. In this work, we consider the evolutionary processes that led to the formation of a new function of the domesticated gag gene and its adaptation to participation in the stress response. We discuss the possible functional role of the Gagr as part of the complex with its partners in Drosophila, and the pathway of evolution of proteins of the complex in eukaryotes to determine the benefit of the domesticated retroelement gag gene.
Quality of Life of the Elderly during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Asian Countries: A Cross-Sectional Study across Six Countries
Authors: Marzo Roy Rillera , Khanal Praval , Ahmad Absar , Rathore Farooq Azam , Chauhan Shekhar , Singh Akansha , Shrestha Sunil , AlRifai Ayesha , Lotfizadeh Masoud , Younus Delan Ameen , Billah Md. Arif , Rahman Farzana , Sivaladchanam Yalini , Mohan Devi , Su Tin Tin
Published: March 2022

Background: Few studies have explored the determinants of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in the elderly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Identifying these factors may help implement appropriate policies to enhance HRQoL in the elderly. Therefore, we aimed to identify the predictors of physical and mental component summary (PCS and MCS) scores of HRQoL in selected six low- and middle-income Asian countries. Methods: We conducted an online survey of older people aged ≥55 years in six countries: Bangladesh, Iran, Iraq, Malaysia, Palestine, and Sri Lanka. The Stark QoL questionnaire was used to measure the PCS and MCS scores. Univariate and multiple variable analyses after adjusting for confounders were performed to identify the possible predictors of PCS and MCS. Results: A total of 1644 older people (69.1 ± 7.8 years, range 55–97 years, Female: 50.9%) responded to the survey. We documented age, country of residence, marital status, number of male children, current employment status, and health insurance, ability to pay household bills, frequency of family members visits and receiving support during COVID-19 pandemic predicted both PCS and MCS. However, gender, residence, and number of female children were associated with PCS only (all p < 0.05). Conclusion: Socio-demographic factors such as age, country of residence, marital status, number of male children, current employment status, health insurance, ability to pay household bills, frequency of family members visiting family members, and receiving support during the COVID-19 pandemic affecting both physical and mental quality of life. These results can guide formulating health care planning policies to enhance QoL during COVID-19 and future pandemics in the elderly.
Novel Circoviruses from Birds Share Common Evolutionary Roots with Fish Origin Circoviruses
Authors: Fehér Enikő , Kaszab Eszter , Bali Krisztina , Hoitsy Márton , Sós Endre , Bányai Krisztián
Published: March 2022

Circoviruses occur in a variety of animal species and are common pathogens of mammalian and avian hosts. In our study internal organ samples of wild birds were processed for screening of circoviral sequences. Two novel viruses were identified and characterized in specimens of a little bittern and a European bee-eater that suffered from wing injuries, were weakened, had liver or kidney failures, and finally succumbed at a rescue station. The 1935 nt and 1960 nt long viral DNA genomes exhibited a genomic structure typical for circoviruses and were predicted to encode replication-associated protein in the viral strand, and a capsid protein in the complementary strand of the replicative intermediate DNA form. The genome of the newly described viruses showed 37.6% pairwise identity with each other and ≤41.5% identity with circovirus sequences, and shared a common branch with fish, human and Weddel seal circoviruses in the phylogenetic tree, implying evolutionary relationship among the ancestors of these viruses. Based on the results the little bittern and European bee-eater circoviruses represent two distinct species of the Circovirus genus, Circoviridae family.
Modeling and Optimizing the Effect of Light Color, Sodium Chloride and Glucose Concentration on Biomass Production and the Quality of Arthrospira platensis Using Response Surface Methodology (RSM)
Authors: Nosratimovafagh Ahmad , Fereidouni Abolghasem Esmaeili , Krujatz Felix
Published: March 2022

Arthrospira platensis (Spirulina) biomass is a valuable source of sustainable proteins, and the basis for new food and feed products. State-of-the-art production of Spirulina biomass in open pond systems only allows limited control of essential process parameters, such as light color, salinity control, or mixotrophic growth, due to the high risk of contaminations. Closed photobioreactors offer a highly controllable system to optimize all process parameters affecting Spirulina biomass production (quantity) and biomass composition (quality). However, a comprehensive analysis of the impact of light color, salinity effects, and mixotrophic growth modes of Spirulina biomass production has not been performed yet. In this study, Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was employed to develop statistical models, and define optimal mixotrophic process conditions yielding maximum quantitative biomass productivity and high-quality biomass composition related to cellular protein and phycocyanin content. The individual and interaction effects of 0, 5, 15, and 30 g/L of sodium chloride (S), and 0, 1.5, 2, and 2.5 g/L of glucose (G) in three costume-made LED panels (L) where the dominant color was white (W), red (R), and yellow (Y) were investigated in a full factorial design. Spirulina was cultivated in 200 mL cell culture flasks in different treatments, and data were collected at the end of the log growth phase. The lack-of-fit test showed that the cubic model was the most suitable to predict the biomass concentration and protein content, and the two-factor interaction (2FI) was preferred to predict the cellular phycocyanin content (p > 0.05). The reduced models were produced by excluding insignificant terms (p > 0.05). The experimental validation of the RSM optimization showed that the highest biomass concentration (1.09, 1.08, and 0.85 g/L), with improved phycocyanin content of 82.27, 59.47, 107 mg/g, and protein content of 46.18, 39.76, 53.16%, was obtained under the process parameter configuration WL4.28S2.5G, RL10.63S1.33G, and YL1.00S0.88G, respectively.
Mechanics of Corrugated and Composite Materials
Authors: Garbowski Tomasz
Published: March 2022

The main aim of this Special Issue in Materials was to collect interesting and innovative works on the mechanics of corrugated and composite materials [...]
Application of Digital Image Correlation in Space and Frequency Domains to Deformation Analysis of Polymer Film
Authors: Kopfler Caroline , Yoshida Sanichiro , Ghimire Anup
Published: March 2022

Using speckle patterns formed by an expanded and collimated He-Ne laser beam, we apply DIC (Digital Image Correlation) methods to estimate the deformation of LLDPE (linear low-density polyethylene) film. The laser beam was transmitted through the film specimen while a tensile machine applied a load to the specimen vertically. The transmitted laser light was projected on a screen, and the resultant image was captured by a digital camera. The captured image was analyzed both in space and frequency domains. For the space-domain analysis, the random speckle pattern was used to register the local displacement due to the deformation. For the frequency-domain analysis, the diffraction-like pattern, due to the horizontally-running, periodic groove-like structure of the film was used to characterize the overall deformation along vertical columns of analysis. It has been found that when the deformation is small and uniform, the conventional space domain analysis is applicable to the entire film specimen. However, once the deformation loses the spatial uniformity, the space-domain analysis falls short if applied to the entire specimen. The application of DIC to local (windowed) regions is still useful but time consuming. In the non-uniform situation, the frequency-domain analysis is found capable of revealing average deformation along each column of analysis.
The Effect of Material Heterogeneity and Temperature on Impact Toughness and Fracture Resistance of SA-387 Gr. 91 Welded Joints
Authors: Jovanović Milivoje , Čamagić Ivica , Sedmak Simon , Sedmak Aleksandar , Burzić Zijah
Published: March 2022

This paper presents the analysis of the behavior of welded joints made of 9–12% Cr-Mo steel SA-387 Gr. 91. The successful application of this steel depends not only on the base metal’s (BM) properties but even more on heat-affected-zone (HAZ) and weld metal (WM), both at room and at operating temperature. Impact testing of specimens with a notch in BM, HAZ, and WM was performed on a Charpy instrumented pendulum to enable the separation of the total energy in crack-initiation and crack-propagation energy. Fracture toughness was also determined for all three zones, applying standard procedure at both temperatures. Results are analyzed to obtain a deep insight into steel SA 387 Gr. 91’s crack resistance properties at room and operating temperatures. Results are also compared with results obtained previously for A-387 Gr. B to assess the effect of an increased content of Chromium.
Structure of Sewage Sludge-Clay Multiscale Composite Particles to Control the Mechanism of SO2 and H2S Gas Release
Authors: Fan Haihong , Li Lin , Li Zhou , Shang Shuo
Published: March 2022

In order to address the problem of sulfur gas and other odors released in the process of using sewage sludge as a construction material, this study prepared multiscale composite particles with a “large scale-medium scale-small scale-micro scale” structure by mixing sludge with silica-alumina building materials. Analysis of the structural changes formed by the internal gas of composite particles due to diffusion at different temperatures and a study of the characteristics of SO2 and H2S release from composite particles were conducted, as well as being compared with the release characteristics of pure sludge, which clarified the mechanism of controlling sulfur-containing-gas release from composite particles. The results showed that compared with pure sludge, the sludge-clay multiscale composite particles were able to reduce the release of SO2 and H2S up to 90% and 91%, and the release temperatures of SO2 and H2S were increased to 120 °C and 80 °C, respectively. Meanwhile, the special structure of the sludge-clay multiscale composite particles and the clay composition are the main factors that hinder the diffusion of sludge pyrolysis gases. Additionally, there are three layers of “gray surface layer-black mixed layer-dark gray spherical core” formed inside the composite particles, which is the apparent manifestation of the diffusion of volatile gases. This study provides theoretical support for the application of multiscale composite particle inhibition of odor-release technology in industrial production.