bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Post-Exercise Changes of Beta Hydroxybutyrate as a Predictor of Weight Changes
Authors: MATOULEK M. , SVOBODOVA S. , VETROVSKA R. , STRANSKA Z. , SVACINA S.
Published: August 2020

The aim was to find the differences in ketogenesis initiation in the early period after the exercise in obese patients and to find if these changes may predict the weight loss during the physical activity program. 96 females were enrolled. A clamped heart rate test (CHR) was performed to establish comparable exercise intensity. Blood samples for beta hydroxybutyrate (BOHB) assessment were collected prior, immediately after and 60 min after the test. Patients underwent a three month fitness program. Anthropometric measurements (fat mass and biochemical parameters) were measured. An energy intake was monitored and comparable in all subjects. A significant increase of BOHB was found in 60th minute after the test, when compared with initiation levels (BOHB1 vs. BOHB3; p=0.03). This increase correlates with % fat mass (R=0.196; p=0.02) and negatively with age (R= –0.147; p=0.05) and with weight reduction during the three-month program (R= –0.299; p=0.03). Serum BOHB increase after the single exercise may detect individuals with an ability to induce lipolysis in three-month program of physical activity for obese patients.
The role of mineral nutrients in regulation of phytoplankton community structure of the North-Eastern part of the Black Sea at the end of May 2019
Authors: Lifanchuk Anna V. , Fedorov Alexey V. , Alieva Elvina I.
Published: August 2020

The effect of nitrogen and phosphorus additives on the species structure of the natural phytoplankton population at the end of May 2019 was studied. An increase in the concentration of nitrogen and phosphorus in seawater led to a rise in the number of coccolithophores, while the relative contribution of phosphorus was higher. The predominance of small-cell diatoms in the community was facilitated by the simultaneous addition of nitrogen and phosphorus. In contrast, the relative contribution of nitrogen was higher than that of phosphorus. An increase in nitrogen concentrations at relatively low phosphorus concentrations intensified the growth of large-cell diatoms.
Long-term dynamics of phytoplankton and chlorophyll a concentration in the surface layer of the coastal waters of the Black Sea (Sevastopol region)
Authors: Stelmakh Liudmila V. , Mansurova Irina M.
Published: August 2020

In the surface layer of the Sevastopol and Quarantine bays, during 2000–2014 in summer and in autumn, the average values of the concentration of chlorophyll a and phytoplankton biomass are reduced by a factor of 2–5. This is due to a decrease in the content of nitrates and silicon compounds in water, as well as the relative proportion of diatoms in the total biomass of phytoplankton. Regression analysis showed that in the summer period the long-term negative trend in the change in the relative biomass of diatoms was determined mainly by the nitrate content in the water and its temperature, while in the autumn – by the content of nitrates and silicon. The share of dinoflagellates and coccolithophores increased over the entire observation period. In winter and spring in bays, and in the open coast during all seasons, unidirectional changes in the concentration of chlorophyll and the total biomass of phytoplankton were not detected.
Natural Language Processing untuk Sentimen Analisis Presiden Jokowi Menggunakan Multi Layer Perceptron
Authors: Munasatya Nico , Novianto Sendi
Published: August 2020

Analisis sentiment biasa digunakan untuk opini minning dalam artian memberikan sebuah identitas/label (Positif, Negatif, Neutral) kedalam data/corpus.NLP (Natural Language Processing) digunakan untuk mengolah data/corpus agar dapat dipahami/dimengerti oleh mesin atau bisa dikatakan data preprocessing/cleaning text.Teks klasifikasi digunakan untuk memproses data/corpus dimasukan kedalam model mesin klasifikasi menggunakan model Multi-layer perceptron yang nantinya akan menghasilkan sebuah prediksi persentase akurasi  > 90% (lebih baik).Visualisasi data yang digunakan untuk mempresentasikan hasil dari model mesin yang merupakan supervised learning.Model selection digunakan untuk memperbaiki hasil persentase akurasi dari model mesin yang dilatih tadi ,untuk model selection bisa memakai model Monte Carlo cross-validation.Hasil pengujian pada sistem yang dibangun didapatkan nilai akurasi hingga 93,26 %.
Implementasi Fuzzy Inference System Metode Sugeno Pada Aplikasi Penilaian Kinerja Dosen
Authors: Priatna Wowon , Purnomo Rakhmat
Published: August 2020

Kinerja dosen dalam perguruan tinggi merupakan bukti nyata yang dihasilkan oleh dosen sebagai prestasi yang ditujukan sesuai perannya. Penilaian kinerja dosen mengacu sistem secara formal dan terstruktur untuk mengukur, menilai, dan mempengaruhi sifat-sifat yang berkatian dengan pekerjaanya.Tujuan dalam penelitan ini adalah untuk menilai kinerja dosen menggunakan Fuzzy Inference System metode Sugeno. Variabel fuzzy yang digunakan adalah pengabungan dari varibel-variabel penelitian sebelumnya diantaranya pengajaran, penelitian & publikasi, abdimas, penunjang, materi, disiplin dan sikap. ini menghasilkan Aplikasi kinerja dosen yang di dimulai dengan merancang use case diagram, class diagram sebagai bagian dari unified modeling language untuk memodelkan perangkat lunak, selanjutnya merancang interface aplikasi. Berdasarkan penilaian kinerja dosen yang dilakukan oleh aplikasi menggunakan sample 10 dosen, diperoleh skor terendah 60 dan skor tertinggi dengan nilai 100.
Analisis Perbandingan Performa Metode Klasifikasi pada Dataset Multiclass Citra Busur Panah
Authors: Azis Huzain , Tangguh Admojo Fadhila , Susanti Erma
Published: August 2020

Pengujian performa berbagai metode pada sebuah dataset merupakan salah satu cara dalam penetapan metode klasifikasi yang tepat, masalah yang diangkat pada penelitian ini adalah bagaimana membandingkan performa beberapa metode klasifikasi dalam mengelola dataset yang memiliki lebih dari dua label (multiclass). Penelitian ini fokus membandingkan hasil performa tujuh metode klasifikasi yaitu K-Nearest Neighbor (knn), Naive Bayes Classifier (nbc), Support Vector machine (svm), Neural Netowork (nn), Random Forest Classifier (rfc), Ada Boost Classifier (abc) dan Quadratic Discriminant Analysis (qdc). Objek pada penelitian ini berupa dataset multiclass yaitu dataset citra busur panah, serta performa yang diukur yaitu seluruh nilai cross-validation dari akurasi, presisi, recall dan f-measure. Hasil pada penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa seluruh metode tidak memperoleh performa yang cukup baik, dan menunjukkan bahwa beberapa metode yang memiliki akurasi yang tinggi tidak menjadi penentu menjadi metode yang baik dikarenakan setelah penerapan cross-validation dan visualisasi boxplot ditemukan beberapa nilai akurasi tinggi yang merupakan nilai tidak wajar atau outlier. Kesimpulan menunjukkan metode svm memiliki performa yang lebih baik dibandingkan dengan enam metode lainnya pada kasus dataset multiclass citra busur panah.
Model Forest Tree dalam Sistem Informasi Gamelan Terintegrasi
Authors: Sudana Oka , I Putu Krisna Cahaya Putra , Wirdiani Ayu
Published: August 2020

Gamelan Bali merupakan alat musik tradisional yang menonjolkan metalofon, gambang, kendang, dan gong. Salah satu fungsi Gamelan Bali adalah untuk mengiringi upacara keagamaan khususnya di Bali. Selain itu Gamelan Bali juga memiliki kaitan erat dengan Budaya Bali lainnya seperti Tari Bali dan Kidung. Permasalahan yang terjadi di masyarakat saat ini yaitu disinformasi mengenai penggunaan Gamelan Bali dalam mengiringi Upacara Keagamaan, Tari Bali, dan Kidung. Berdasarkan permasalahan tersebut, maka dibangun sebuah sistem informasi berbasis web yang terintegrasi antara Upacara Keagamaan, Gamelan Bali, Tari Bali dan Kidung. Untuk mendukung proses yang terjadi didalam sistem informasi tersebut, maka digunakanlah model Forest Tree yang merupakan pengembangan dari model Tree. Model Forest Tree digunakan karena banyaknya entitas, dan juga kasus unik dimana ada keterkaitan antara child dengan child dalam satu parent, dimana model Tree tidak bisa mengakomodir hal tersebut. Tujuan dari dilakukannya penelitian ini adalah memberikan edukasi kepada masyarakat untuk mengenal Gamelan Bali beserta kaitannya. Metode pengumpulan data yang digunakan adalah studi literatur dan wawancara. Hasil yang didapatkan dari penelitian ini adalah model Forest Tree yang berdasarkan pengembangan dari dua Model Tree yaitu Gamelan Bali dan Upacara.
ICOS+ Tregs: A Functional Subset of Tregs in Immune Diseases
Authors: Li Dan-Yang , Xiong Xian-Zhi
Published: August 2020

Recent studies have reported the pathological effect of ICOS+ T cells, but ICOS signals also widely participate in anti-inflammatory responses, particularly ICOS+ regulatory T (Treg) cells. The ICOS signaling pathway endows Tregs with increased generation, proliferation, and survival abilities. Furthermore, there is enough evidence to suggest a superior capacity of ICOS+ Tregs, which is partly attributable to IL-10 induced by ICOS, yet the associated mechanism needs further investigation. In this review, we discuss the complicated role of ICOS+ Tregs in several classical autoimmune diseases, allergic diseases, and cancers and investigate the related therapeutic applications in these diseases. Moreover, we identify ICOS as a potential biomarker for disease treatment and prognostic prediction. In addition, we believe that anti-ICOS/ICOSL monoclonal antibodies exhibit excellent clinical application potential. A thorough understanding of the effect of ICOS+ Tregs and the holistic role of ICOS toward the immune system will help to improve the therapeutic schedule of diseases.
RETRACTED: Clinical Significance, Cellular Function, and Potential Molecular Pathways of CCT7 in Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Wang Liwen , Zhou Wei , Li Hui , Yang Hui , Shan Nianchun
Published: August 2020

Objective: Endometrial cancer (EC) is a common gynecologic malignancy; myometrial invasion (MI) is a typical approach of EC spreads and an important index to assess tumor metastasis and outcome in EC patients. CCT7 is a member of the TCP1 chaperone family, involved in cytoskeletal protein folding and unfolding. In this study, the role of CCT7 in EC development was investigated.

Methods: Clinical data for 87 EC cases and expression of CCT7 were analyzed. CCT7 was knocked out using siRNA-CCT7 in Ishikawa and RL95-2 cells, and their function about proliferation, apoptosis, and invasion was further tested. Bioinformatics methods were used to predict the potential pathways of CCT7 in EC development.

Results: The rates of CCT7-positive cells in EC and adjacent normal endometrium tissues had a significant difference (67.8 vs. 51.4%, p = 0.035), and the expression rate increased from low to high pathological stage (39.7% in the I/II stage, 71.4% in the III/IV stage, p = 0.029). A similar change was found in protein level. CCT7 expression differed significantly between the deep MI group (>1/2) and the superficial MI group (≤1/2) (p = 0.039). However, there were no differences with respect to age, pathological type, and histological grade. CCT7 suppression induced a function loss in both Ishikawa and RL95-2 cells. Bioinformatics analysis demonstrated that EC patients with lower-level CCT7 expression had better overall survival (p = 0.0081). Gene ontology enrichment indicated that “RNA binding,” “Mitochondrion,” “Translation,” and “Spliceosome” were most significantly enriched potential pathways. Five hub genes, PSMA5, PSMD14, SNRPB, SNRPG, and TXNL4A, were all significantly upregulated in EC and had a positive correlation with CCT7.

Conclusions:CCT7 may be involved in EC development by excessively activating tumor cell function to promote MI or distant/nodal metastasis, which may contribute to the prognosis of EC patients.
Universities and Wineries: Supporting Sustainable Development in Disadvantaged Rural Areas
Authors: Aleffi Chiara , Tomasi Sabrina , Ferrara Concetta , Santini Cristina , Paviotti Gigliola , Baldoni Federica , Cavicchi Alessio
Published: August 2020

This exploratory study focuses on the role of the university in supporting sustainable development in rural areas, focusing on small wine producers, particularly those located in remote and disadvantaged areas. Disadvantaged areas have distinctive features. Firstly, they are fragile areas from a sociodemographic point of view because of population ageing. Secondly, they are unstable from an environmental (physical, eco-systemic) point of view, as a consequence of insufficient maintenance of their seminatural capital. University–business cooperation with companies located in those areas thus needs to be designed by considering the specific characteristic of the place. Therefore, this exploratory study sought to understand how the university can work with small wineries and support them and their rural area to face inequalities and low growth, and foster social innovation. We present a case study based on field research in Italy. The results—based on the analysis of 26 semistructured interviews with small wine producers—are discussed by exploring the potential form of cooperation between rural stakeholders and universities, beyond the concept of knowledge transfer. Conclusions highlight the need for the university to act as a facilitator of dialogue at a territorial level, as a first step toward to formulation of shared sustainable goals.
Parameterisation and Optimisation of a Hand-Rake Sweeper: Application in Olive Picking
Authors: Fernández Rafael E. Hidalgo , Carranza-Cañadas Pilar , García-Salcedo Francisco J. , Triviño-Tarradas Paula
Published: August 2020

Olive picking is one of the most common social agricultural activities in many regions of Andalusia where the predominant crop is the traditional olive grove. The machinery used includes shakers, blowers and essential, low-cost hand-rake sweepers. The latter are generally used by the women of the squads to sweep the olives that fall from the trees. This article is focused on the design and optimisation of a hand-rake sweeper, in terms of durability and cost, for the picking of olives and other fruits, such as almonds, which are currently the main alternative to nonperennial crops in Andalusia. A parametric design of a hand-rake sweeper was created for this application using the design software CATIA, and its most vulnerable points were analysed in terms of effectiveness with varying design parameters, conducting usage simulations with ANSYS for a light material such as polypropylene. The maximum von Mises stress of the whole structure was 155.81 MPa. Using ANSYS, the dimension parameters of the hand-rake sweeper structure were optimised. The modified design was analysed again, showing a reduction of maximum tensions of 10.06%, as well as a decrease in its maximum elongations (0.0181 mm).
Chlorophyll Fluorescence Kinetics May Be Useful to Identify Early Drought and Irrigation Effects on Photosynthetic Apparatus in Field-Grown Wheat
Authors: Botyanszka Lenka , Zivcak Marek , Chovancek Erik , Sytar Oksana , Barek Viliam , Hauptvogel Pavol , Halabuk Andrej , Brestic Marian
Published: August 2020

To assess the reliability and sensitivity of non-invasive optical methods to detect the early effects of water deficit in the field, we analyzed the time-series of non-invasive measurements obtained in a dry season in a representative collection of wheat genotypes grown in small-plot field trials, in non-irrigated and irrigated variants. Despite a progressive water deficit and significant yield loss, the measurements indicated very minor changes in chlorophyll content or canopy cover. This corresponded well to the insignificant differences in spectral reflectance normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) values. On the other hand, we identified the significant and rapid response of fast fluorescence kinetics data following the onset of irrigation. Analysis of parameters showed the main effects of drought were associated with changes in the amplitude of the I–P phase of the OJIP transient, indicating changes at the level of photosystem I and beyond. Statistical analyses identified the integrative parameter performance index PItot as the most sensitive parameter, which well-reflects the differences in responses of the genotypes to water deficit. Our results suggest that focusing on photosynthetic functions detected by the rapid chlorophyll fluorescence records can provide more accurate information on the drought stress level, compared to the structural data obtained by absorbance or reflectance measurements.
Internal Teat Sealant Administered at Drying off Reduces Intramammary Infections during the Dry and Early Lactation Periods of Dairy Cows
Authors: Freu Gustavo , Tomazi Tiago , Monteiro Camylla Pedrosa , Barcelos Melina Melo , Alves Bruna Gomes , Santos Marcos Veiga dos
Published: August 2020

The effect of an internal teat sealant (ITS) on subsequent infection of the mammary gland was evaluated on the following mammary gland health indicators: (a) bacteriological cure of preexisting intramammary infections at drying off, (b) risk of postpartum new intramammary infections (NIMI), (c) cure and risk of new cases of subclinical mastitis (SCM), and (d) risk of postpartum clinical mastitis (CM). A total of 553 cows during late gestation were randomly assigned into two treatment protocols at drying off: (a) Dry cow therapy with 0.25 g of intramammary anhydrous cefalonium (ADCT; Cepravin®, MSD Animal Health); or (b) ADCT combined with ITS (SDCT; 4 g bismuth subnitrate; Masti-Seal®, MSD Animal Health, São Paulo, Brazil). Mammary quarter (MQ) milk samples were collected for microbiological culture and somatic cell count (SCC) at drying off and early lactation, and data from 1756 MQ were used in the multivariate logistic regression. There was no effect on the risk of bacteriological cure, SCM cure, and new cases of postpartum SCM. Still, SDCT reduced the risk of CM up to 60 days postpartum (DPP), overall NIMI risk, and the NIMI caused by major pathogens compared to ADCT. Thus, the DCT combined with ITS at drying off is effective for preventing NIMI during the dry period and CM up to 60 DPP.
Impacts and Potential Mitigation of Road Mortality for Hedgehogs in Europe
Authors: Moore Lauren J. , Petrovan Silviu O. , Baker Philip J. , Bates Adam J. , Hicks Helen L. , Perkins Sarah E. , Yarnell Richard W.
Published: August 2020

Transport infrastructure is a pervasive element in modern landscapes and continues to expand to meet the demands of a growing human population and its associated resource consumption. Road-induced mortality is often thought to be a major contributor to the marked declines of European hedgehog populations. This review synthesizes available evidence on the population-level impacts of road mortality and the threat to population viability for the five hedgehog species in Europe. Local and national studies suggest that road mortality can cause significant depletions in population sizes, predominantly removing adult males. Traffic collisions are a probable cause of fragmentation effects, subsequently undermining ecological processes such as dispersal, as well as the genetic variance and fitness of isolated populations. Further studies are necessary to improve population estimates and explicitly examine the consequences of sex- and age-specific mortality rates. Hedgehogs have been reported to use crossing structures, such as road tunnels, yet evaluations of mitigation measures for population survival probability are largely absent. This highlights the need for robust studies that consider population dynamics and genetics in response to mitigation. In light of ongoing declines of hedgehog populations, it is paramount that applied research is prioritised and integrated into a holistic spatial planning process.
Methods of Assessment of the Welfare of Shelter Cats: A Review
Authors: Vojtkovská Veronika , Voslářová Eva , Večerek Vladimír
Published: August 2020

At any moment, there are millions of cats housed in foster care facilities for abandoned and stray animals for various reasons worldwide. Care, management and regulation among these facilities differ. Moreover, shelters can never substitute the full comfort of a good home for the animal, and the welfare of cats in shelters is a subject of discussion in many respects. Cats are animals sensitive to changes; for most of them, placement in a shelter is a stressful experience because of changes in routine, environment and the presence of other animals. Stress is reflected in changes in behaviour, causes fluctuations in physiological values and disrupts the immune system, which is a predisposition to the development or reactivation of disease. Evaluation of the presence and intensity of negative impacts is possible through the use of evaluation tools based on indicators that help set the environment and management of keeping so as to disrupt the quality of life as little as possible. Although a comprehensive and valid welfare tool that would evaluate animal-based and at the same time resource-based (or management-based) indicators of cats in shelters is not currently available, it is possible to use partial evaluation of individual welfare indicators to assess welfare. This review aims to provide the readers with an insight into current options of assessment of the welfare of cats in shelters with an emphasis on behavioural, physiological and health indicators with an application in both practical and scientific contexts.
Antimicrobial and Antibiofilm Capacity of Chitosan Nanoparticles against Wild Type Strain of Pseudomonas sp. Isolated from Milk of Cows Diagnosed with Bovine Mastitis
Authors: Rivera Aguayo Paula , Bruna Larenas Tamara , Alarcón Godoy Carlos , Cayupe Rivas Bernardita , González-Casanova Jorge , Rojas-Gómez Diana , Caro Fuentes Nelson
Published: August 2020

Bovine mastitis (BM) is the most prevalent bacterial infection in the livestock sector, affecting the dairy industry greatly. The prevention and treatment of this disease is mainly made via antibiotics, but the increasing antimicrobial resistance of pathogens has affected the efficiency of conventional drugs. Pseudomonas sp. is one of the pathogens involved in this infection. The therapeutic rate of cure for this environmental mastitis-causing pathogen is practically zero, regardless of treatment. Biofilm formation has been one of the main virulence mechanisms of Pseudomonas hence presenting resistance to antibiotic therapy. We have manufactured chitosan nanoparticles (NQo) with tripolyphosphate (TPP) using ionotropic gelation. These NQo were confronted against a Pseudomonas sp. strain isolated from milk samples of cows diagnosed with BM, to evaluate their antimicrobial and antibiofilm capacity. The NQo showed great antibacterial effect in the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) and disk diffusion assays. Using sub lethal concentrations, NQo were tested for inhibition of biofilm formation. The results show that the nanoparticles exhibited biofilm inhibition and were capable of eradicate pre-existing mature biofilm. These findings indicate that the NQo could act as a potential alternative to antibiotic treatment of BM.
Overview of Global Trends in Classification, Methods of Preparation and Application of Bacteriocins
Authors: Zimina Maria , Babich Olga , Prosekov Alexander , Sukhikh Stanislav , Ivanova Svetlana , Shevchenko Margarita , Noskova Svetlana
Published: August 2020

This paper summarizes information about the division of bacteriocins into classes (Gram-negative bacteria, Gram-positive bacteria, and archaea). Methods for producing bacteriocins have been studied. It is known that bacteriocins, most successfully used today are products of secondary metabolism of lactic acid bacteria. It is established that the main method of bacteriocin research is PCR analysis, which makes it possible to quickly and easily identify the presence of bacteriocin encoding genes. The mechanism of cytotoxic action of bacteriocins has been studied. It is proved that the study of cytotoxic (antitumor) activity in laboratory conditions will lead to the clinical use of bacteriocins for cancer treatment in the near future. It is established that the incorporation of bacteriocins into nanoparticles and targeted delivery to areas of infection may soon become an effective treatment method. The delivery of bacteriocins in a concentrated form, such as encapsulated in nanoparticles, will increase their effectiveness and minimize potential toxic side effects. The analysis of publications on this topic confirmed that diverse research on bacteriocins is relevant.
Human Cognitive and Motor Abilities in the Aging Workforce: An Information-Based Model
Authors: Digiesi Salvatore , Cavallo Daniela , Lucchese Andrea , Mummolo Carlotta
Published: August 2020

In the digital society, individuals are in charge of performing tasks based on the information gathered by huge amount of data and effectively use them to manifest their cognitive and motor abilities. In this paper, on the basis of experimental studies available in literature concerning lab tests on motor or cognitive abilities of differently aged subjects, an information-based theoretical model is proposed. The model allows to quantify the information content of a motor or a cognitive task and provides estimates of information processing time of individuals of different age and sex in accomplishing tasks with prevalent motor or cognitive nature, in spite of the fact that a “pure” cognitive or a “pure” motor task are rarely observed in practical cases. The model is then applied to a case study from automotive industry in which workforce aging phenomenon is experienced. Potential applications of the model go beyond the case study developed. Quantifying the information content of a general motor-cognitive task paves the way to new understanding and modelling of movements and performance time of both natural and artificial systems with applications in industrial robotics (e.g., human-robot cooperation), biomechanics, and neurorehabilitation.
Template-Assisted Electrochemical Synthesis of CdSe Quantum Dots—Polypyrrole Composite Nanorods
Authors: Kang Won-Seok , Oh Taegon , Nam Gwang-Hyeon , Kim Hyo-Sop , Kim Ki-Suk , Park Sun-Hyun , Kim Jae-Ho , Lee Jae-Hyeok
Published: August 2020

Luminescent nanoparticles have reached a high level of maturity in materials and spectral tunability for optics and optoelectronics. However, the lack of facile methodology for heterojunction formation of the nanoparticles provides many challenges for scalability. In this paper we demonstrate a simple procedure to synthesize a nanoparticle-embedded polymer nanorod hybrid structure via a template-based electrochemical method using anodic aluminum oxide membranes. This method enables the formation of interactive nanostructures wherein the interface area between the two components is maximized. As a proof of concept, semiconducting CdSe nanoparticles were embedded in polypyrrole nanorods with dimensions that can be finely tuned. We observed enhanced photoluminescence of the hybrid structures compared with bare polypyrrole nanorods.
Heat Transfer Performance in Energy Piles in Urban Areas: Case Studies for Lambeth College and Shell Centre UK
Authors: Qi He , Zhou Yu , Zhang Zhonghua , Wang Bo , Zhang Yi , Cui Hongzhi , Wang Xi
Published: August 2020

A ground source heat pump system is a highly efficient renewable heating, cooling, and ventilation system that utilizes the ground as a heat source or sink via ground heat exchangers. Energy pile is an energy geotechnical structure that couples a ground heat exchanger with a geotechnical structure, leading to low capital cost. The design of energy piles can be challengeable due to their complicated geometries and the requirement of mechanical load. This study focuses on the heat transfer across the concrete–soil interface of energy piles in urban areas. Case studies from two projects, the Lambeth College and Shell Centre projects, are presented and discussed. The back analysis of two energy pile cases illustrated that the heat transfer coefficient at the pile–soil interface can differ between the cooling mode and the heating mode. It can be concluded that the difference in the heat transfer coefficient is influenced by a number of factors such as soil properties, concrete (grout) properties, and the installation method.
“In Vivo” Validation of 3D-Printed Innovative Surgical Template for Lumbar Spinal Arthrodesis
Authors: Naddeo Francesco , Cataldo Emilio , Narciso Nicola , Naddeo Alessandro , Cappetti Nicola
Published: August 2020

The most common type of spine instrumentation is the pedicle screw fixation. The recent literature shows how customized drilling templates help surgeons to perform the surgery better. This work aims to validate the design of a customized template for inserting lumbar pedicle screw via a procedure based on rapid prototyping and reverse engineering techniques and to show the benefits. The novelties of this template are its low-invasive sizes, its design based on a patented algorithm, which calculates the sizes of the screws and the optimal insertion direction, the engage/disengage system, and the adaptability to every kind of surgeon’s kit. Accuracy of pedicle screw location, surgery duration, and X-ray exposition have been used to evaluate the performances of the template. Mono-centric in vivo trial was performed. Twenty patients (8 women and 12 men) were enrolled randomly corresponding to sixty vertebrae treated with spinal arthrodesis (30 with and 30 without templates). Accuracy of the screw positioning and reduction in both surgery duration and patients’ exposure to X-rays achieved excellent results because the time spent on the insertion of pedicle screws via the surgical template was cut down by about 63%, while the number of X-ray shots was reduced by about 92%. The proposed template performed better than the standard approach and could be helpful both for skilled and novice surgeons.
Projecting Northern Hemisphere Flow Regime Transition Using Integrated Enstrophy
Authors: Klaus Emily , Market Patrick , Lupo Anthony , Bodner Michael , Kastman Joshua
Published: August 2020

Integrated enstrophy (IE) is the square of vorticity integrated over an entire hemisphere at a particular level in the atmosphere. Previous work has shown this quantity is correlated to the positive Lyapunov Exponent for hemispheric flow, and as such is a measure of flow stability or predictability. In this study, IE is calculated at 500 hPa over an area that encompasses 0° to 70° in the Northern Hemisphere. The data sets used were the 500 hPa initial and forecast fields for the Global Ensemble Forecasting System (GEFS) (on a 1 × 1 latitude-longitude grid) provided by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Prediction Center (WPC) and the National Centers for Environmental Prediction/NOAA reanalyses (on a 2.5 × 2.5 latitude-longitude grid) archived in Boulder, CO. The GEFS forecast fields were provided every 24 h out to 240 h. By examining these forecasts over a year, it was found here that significant changes in the calculated IE values, as quantitatively determined, are a good predictor of flow regime transition, and 34 cases were found. We also found that the model IE forecasts identified these regime transitions reliably out to about seven days, however, the probability of detection and the skill decreased after this time. Additionally, a threshold for changes in IE was found for the cases studied here.
A Review on Airborne Microbes: The Characteristics of Sources, Pathogenicity and Geography
Authors: Chen Xueyan , Kumari Deepika , Achal Varenyam
Published: August 2020

Microbes are widespread and have been much more studied in recent years. In this review, we describe detailed information on airborne microbes that commonly originate from soil and water through liquid–air and soil–air interface. The common bacteria and fungi in the atmosphere are the phyla of Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, Bacteroides, Actinobacteria, Cyanobacteria and Ascomycota, Basidiomycota, Chytridiomycota, Rozellomycota that include most pathogens leading to several health problems. In addition, the stability of microbial community structure in bioaerosols could be affected by many factors and some special weather conditions like dust events even can transport foreign pathogens to other regions, affecting human health. Such environments are common for a particular place and affect the nature and interaction of airborne microbes with them. For instance, meteorological factors, haze and foggy days greatly influence the concentration and abundance of airborne microbes. However, as microorganisms in the atmosphere are attached on particulate matters (PM), the high concentration of chemical pollutants in PM tends to restrain the growth of microbes, especially gathering atmospheric pollutants in heavy haze days. Moreover, moderate haze concentration and/or common chemical components could provide suitable microenvironments and nutrition for airborne microorganism survival. In summary, the study reviews much information and characteristics of airborne microbes for further study.
Heat Exposure Information at Screen Level for an Impact-Based Forecasting and Warning Service for Heat-Wave Disasters
Authors: Yi Chaeyeon , Yang Hojin
Published: August 2020

The importance of impact-based forecasting services, which can support decision-making, is being emphasized to reduce the damage of meteorological disasters, centered around the World Meteorological Organization. The Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) began developing impact-based forecasting technology and warning services in 2018. This paper proposes statistical downscaling and bias correction methods for acquiring high-resolution meteorological data for the heat-wave impact forecast system operated by KMA. Hence, digital forecast data from KMA, with 5 km spatial resolution, were downscaled and corrected to a spatial resolution of 1 km using statistical interpolation methods. Cross-validation indicated the superior performance of the Gaussian process regression model (GPRM) technique with low root mean square error and percent bias values and high CC value. The GPRM technology had the lowest forecast error, especially during the hottest period in Korea. In addition, temperatures for land-use areas with low elevations and high activity, such as the urban, road, and agricultural areas, were high. It is essential to provide accurate heat exposure information at the screen level with high human activity. Spatiotemporally accurate heat exposure information can be used more realistically for risk management in agriculture, livestock and fishery, and for adjusting the working hours of outdoor workers in construction and shipbuilding.
Longitudinal Serum Neurofilament Levels of Multiple Sclerosis Patients Before and After Treatment with First-Line Immunomodulatory Therapies
Authors: Huss André , Senel Makbule , Abdelhak Ahmed , Mayer Benjamin , Kassubek Jan , Ludolph Albert C. , Otto Markus , Tumani Hayrettin
Published: August 2020

Serum neurofilament light chain (NfL) has been shown to correlate with neuroaxonal damage in multiple sclerosis (MS) and various other neurological diseases. While serum NfL is now regularly reported in clinical approval studies, there is a lack of longitudinal data from patients treated with established basic immunotherapies outside of study conditions. In total, 34 patients with early relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) were included. The follow-up period was 24 months with regular follow-up visits after 3, 6, 9, 12 and 18 months. Therapy with glatiramer acetate was initiated in 20 patients and with interferon-beta in 12 patients. The disease course was monitored by the events of relapses, Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score and MRI parameters. Overall, serum NfL levels were higher at time points with a current relapse event than at time points without relapse (12.8 pg/mL vs. 9.7 pg/mL, p = 0.011). At follow-up, relapse-free patients showed significantly reduced serum NfL levels starting from 9 months compared to baseline (p < 0.05) and reduced levels after 12 months compared to baseline (p = 0.013) in patients without EDSS progression for 12 months. In this explorative observational study, our data suggest that the longitudinal measurement of serum NfL may be useful in addition to MRI to monitor disease activity and therapy response.
Integrating Biosensors in Organs-on-Chip Devices: A Perspective on Current Strategies to Monitor Microphysiological Systems
Authors: Ferrari Erika , Palma Cecilia , Vesentini Simone , Occhetta Paola , Rasponi Marco
Published: August 2020

Organs-on-chip (OoC), often referred to as microphysiological systems (MPS), are advanced in vitro tools able to replicate essential functions of human organs. Owing to their unprecedented ability to recapitulate key features of the native cellular environments, they represent promising tools for tissue engineering and drug screening applications. The achievement of proper functionalities within OoC is crucial; to this purpose, several parameters (e.g., chemical, physical) need to be assessed. Currently, most approaches rely on off-chip analysis and imaging techniques. However, the urgent demand for continuous, noninvasive, and real-time monitoring of tissue constructs requires the direct integration of biosensors. In this review, we focus on recent strategies to miniaturize and embed biosensing systems into organs-on-chip platforms. Biosensors for monitoring biological models with metabolic activities, models with tissue barrier functions, as well as models with electromechanical properties will be described and critically evaluated. In addition, multisensor integration within multiorgan platforms will be further reviewed and discussed.
Through Predictive Personalized Medicine
Authors: Giglia Giuseppe , Gambino Giuditta , Sardo Pierangelo
Published: August 2020

Neuroblastoma (NBM) is a deadly form of solid tumor mostly observed in the pediatric age. Although survival rates largely differ depending on host factors and tumor-related features, treatment for clinically aggressive forms of NBM remains challenging. Scientific advances are paving the way to improved and safer therapeutic protocols, and immunotherapy is quickly rising as a promising treatment that is potentially safer and complementary to traditionally adopted surgical procedures, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Improving therapeutic outcomes requires new approaches to be explored and validated. In-silico predictive models based on analysis of a plethora of data have been proposed by Lombardo et al. as an innovative tool for more efficacious immunotherapy against NBM. In particular, knowledge gained on intracellular signaling pathways linked to the development of NBM was used to predict how the different phenotypes could be modulated to respond to anti-programmed cell death-ligand-1 (PD-L1)/programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) immunotherapy. Prediction or forecasting are important targets of artificial intelligence and machine learning. Hopefully, similar systems could provide a reliable opportunity for a more targeted approach in the near future.
Crowding Effects across Depth Are Fixation-Centered for Defocused Flankers and Observer-Centered for Defocused Targets
Authors: Eberhardt Lisa V. , Huckauf Anke
Published: August 2020

Depth needs to be considered to understand visual information processing in cluttered environments in the wild. Since differences in depth depend on current gaze position, eye movements were avoided by short presentations in a real depth setup. Thus, allowing only peripheral vision, crowding was tested. That is, the impairment of peripheral target recognition by the presence of nearby flankers was measured. Real depth was presented by a half-transparent mirror that aligned the displays of two orthogonally arranged, distance-adjustable screens. Fixation depth was at a distance of 190 cm, defocused depth planes were presented either near or far, in front of or behind the fixation depth, all within the depth of field. In Experiments 1 and 2, flankers were presented defocused, while the to-be-identified targets were on the fixation depth plane. In Experiments 3–5, targets were presented defocused, while the flankers were kept on the fixation depth plane. Results for defocused flankers indicate increased crowding effects with increased flanker distance from the target at focus (near to far). However, for defocused targets, crowding for targets in front of the focus as compared to behind was increased. Thus, defocused targets produce decreased crowding with increased target distance from the observer. To conclude, the effects of flankers in depth seem to be centered around fixation, while effects of target depth seem to be observer-centered.
Efficacy of Noninvasive Brain Stimulation (tDCS or TMS) Paired with Language Therapy in the Treatment of Primary Progressive Aphasia: An Exploratory Meta-Analysis
Authors: Nissim Nicole R. , Moberg Paul J. , Hamilton Roy H.
Published: August 2020

Noninvasive brain stimulation techniques, such as transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), paired with behavioral language therapy, have demonstrated the capacity to enhance language abilities in primary progressive aphasia (PPA), a debilitating degenerative neurological syndrome that leads to declines in communication abilities. The aim of this meta-analysis is to systematically evaluate the efficacy of tDCS and TMS in improving language outcomes in PPA, explore the magnitude of effects between stimulation modalities, and examine potential moderators that may influence treatment effects. Standard mean differences for change in performance from baseline to post-stimulation on language-related tasks were evaluated. Six tDCS studies and two repetitive TMS studies met inclusion criteria and provided 22 effects in the analysis. Random effect models revealed a significant, heterogeneous, and moderate effect size for tDCS and TMS in the enhancement of language outcomes. Findings demonstrate that naming ability significantly improves due to brain stimulation, an effect found to be largely driven by tDCS. Future randomized controlled trials are needed to determine long-term effectiveness of noninvasive brain stimulation techniques on language abilities, further delineate the efficacy of tDCS and TMS, and identify optimal parameters to enable the greatest gains for persons with PPA.
Advanced Techniques for Pilotis RC Frames Seismic Retrofit: Performance Comparison for a Strategic Building Case Study
Authors: Grossi Eleonora , Zerbin Matteo , Aprile Alessandra
Published: August 2020

Pilotis buildings have widely spread out in developed countries since World War II onwards. From the structural point of view, Pilotis RC frames exhibit substantial lack in ductility capacity and shear resistance localized at the first floor, since they have been mainly realized before the seismic codes’ era. The present study shows the performance comparison of four advanced retrofit techniques when applied to typical Pilotis RC frame designed for gravity loads only according to Italian building code of ‘60s. A preliminary investigation has been performed to select non-linear numerical models suitable to describe the considered RC frame behavior, involving flexural inelastic hinges of RC beams and columns and in-plane axial inelastic hinges of masonry infill panels. Two seismic retrofit projects have been designed at a local level, by strengthening the masonry infilled panels with Fiber Reinforced Cementitious Matrix (FRCM) technique and alternatively by replacing infilled panels with prefabricated panels disconnected from the structure, so that no infill/frame interaction occurs. Two more retrofit projects have been designed at a global level, in order to improve the overall structural performance making use of energy dissipation and, alternatively, base isolation techniques. Nonlinear time history analysis and structural assessment have been carried out for the as-built case as well as for the four retrofit solutions according to Eurocode 8 and Italian Building Code, in order to highlight the structural deficiencies and relative improvements, respectively. Performances offered by the proposed retrofit techniques have been finally compared in terms of structural behavior, expected damage, and economic impact.
RPAS-Based Framework for Simplified Seismic Risk Assessment of Italian RC-Bridges
Authors: Nettis Andrea , Saponaro Mirko , Nanna Massimo
Published: August 2020

Existing reinforced concrete (RC) bridges that were designed in the decades between 1950 and 1990 exhibit inadequate structural safety with reference to both traffic loads and hazard conditions. Competent authorities are planning extensive inspections to collect data about these structures and to address retrofit interventions. In this context, Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPASs) represent a prospect to facilitate in-situ inspections, reducing time, cost and risk for the operators. A practice-oriented methodology to perform RPAS-based surveys is described. After that, a workflow to perform an in-situ RPAS inspection oriented to a photogrammetric data extraction is discussed. With the aim to connect the advantages of the RPAS technologies to the seismic risk assessment of bridges, a simplified mechanic-based procedure is described, oriented to map the structural risk in road networks and support prioritization strategies. A six-span RC bridge of the Basilicata road network, representing a typical Italian bridge typology is selected to practically describe the operating steps of the RPAS inspection and of the simplified seismic risk assessment approach.
Epstein-Barr Virus Mediated Signaling in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Carcinogenesis
Authors: Richardo Timmy , Prattapong Pongphol , Ngernsombat Chawalit , Wisetyaningsih Nurulfitri , Iizasa Hisashi , Yoshiyama Hironori , Janvilisri Tavan
Published: August 2020

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is one of the most common tumors occurring in China and Southeast Asia. Etiology of NPC seems to be complex and involves many determinants, one of which is Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection. Although evidence demonstrates that EBV infection plays a key role in NPC carcinogenesis, the exact relationship between EBV and dysregulation of signaling pathways in NPC needs to be clarified. This review focuses on the interplay between EBV and NPC cells and the corresponding signaling pathways, which are modulated by EBV oncoproteins and non-coding RNAs. These altered signaling pathways could be critical for the initiation and progression of NPC.