bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Zytux in Refractory Myasthenia Gravis: A Multicenter, Open-Labeled, Clinical Trial Study of Effectiveness and Safety of a Rituximab Biosimilar
Authors: Fatehi Farzad , Moradi Kamyar , Okhovat Ali Asghar , Shojatalab Ghazaleh , Sedighi Behnaz , Boostani Reza , Sarraf Payam , Haghi Ashtiani Bahram , Ghasemi Majid , Moussavi Soussan , Anjidani Nassim , Nafissi Shahriar
Published: August 2021

Objectives: Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an immune-mediated neuromuscular disorder responsive to immunomodulatory treatments. 10–20% of MGs are not responsive to conventional first-line therapies. Here, we sought to investigate the efficacy and safety of rituximab therapy in the treatment of patients with refractory MG.

Methods: In a 48-week, multicenter, open-labeled, prospective cohort setting, 34 participants with refractory MG were assigned to receive infusions of Zytux, which is a rituximab biosimilar, according to a validated protocol. Clinical, functional, and quality of life (QoL) measurements were recorded at baseline, and seven further visits using the Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America (MGFA), Myasthenia Gravis Composite (MGC), Myasthenia Gravis Activities of Daily Living profile (MG-ADL), and Myasthenia Gravis Quality of Life (MGQoL-15) scales. Besides, the post-infusion side effects were systematically assessed throughout the study.

Results: The correlation analysis performed by generalized estimating equations analysis represented a significant reduction of MGC, MG-ADL, and MGQoL-15 scores across the trial period. The subgroup analysis based on the patients' clinical status indicated a significant effect for the interaction between time and MGFA subtypes on MG-ADL score, MGC score, and pyridostigmine prednisolone dose, reflecting that the worse clinical condition was associated with a better response to rituximab. Finally, no serious adverse event was documented.

Conclusions: Rituximab therapy could improve clinical, functional, and QoL in patients with refractory MG in a safe setting. Further investigations with larger sample size and a more extended follow-up period are warranted to confirm this finding.

Clinical Trial Registration: The study was registered by the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT) (Code No: IRCT20150303021315N18).
Pre- and Interhospital Workflow Times for Patients With Large Vessel Occlusion Stroke Transferred for Endovasvular Thrombectomy
Authors: van Meenen Laura C. C. , Riedijk Frank , Stolp Jeffrey , van der Veen Bas , Halkes Patricia H. A. , van der Ree Taco C. , Majoie Charles B. L. M. , Roos Yvo B. W. E. M. , Smeekes Martin D. , Coutinho Jonathan M.
Published: August 2021

Background: Patients with large vessel occlusion (LVO) stroke are often initially admitted to a primary stroke center (PSC) and subsequently transferred to a comprehensive stroke center (CSC) for endovascular thrombectomy (EVT). This interhospital transfer delays initiation of EVT. To identify potential workflow improvements, we analyzed pre- and interhospital time metrics for patients with LVO stroke who were transferred from a PSC for EVT.

Methods: We used data from the regional emergency medical services and our EVT registry. We included patients with LVO stroke who were transferred from three nearby PSCs for EVT (2014–2021). The time interval between first alarm and arrival at the CSC (call-to-CSC time) and other time metrics were calculated. We analyzed associations between various clinical and workflow-related factors and call-to-CSC time, using multivariable linear regression.

Results: We included 198 patients with LVO stroke. Mean age was 70 years (±14.9), median baseline NIHSS was 14 (IQR: 9–18), 136/198 (69%) were treated with intravenous thrombolysis, and 135/198 (68%) underwent EVT. Median call-to-CSC time was 162 min (IQR: 137–190). In 133/155 (86%) cases, the ambulance for transfer to the CSC was dispatched with the highest level of urgency. This was associated with shorter call-to-CSC time (adjusted β [95% CI]: −27.6 min [−51.2 to −3.9]). No clinical characteristics were associated with call-to-CSC time.

Conclusion: In patients transferred from a PSC for EVT, median call-to-CSC time was over 2.5 h. The highest level of urgency for dispatch of ambulances for EVT transfers should be used, as this clearly decreases time to treatment.
Circulating microRNAs in Early Breast Cancer Patients and Its Association With Lymph Node Metastases
Authors: Escuin Daniel , López-Vilaró Laura , Mora Josefina , Bell Olga , Moral Antonio , Pérez Ignacio , Arqueros Cristina , García-Valdecasas Bárbara , Ramón y Cajal Teresa , Lerma Enrique , Barnadas Agustí
Published: August 2021

MicroRNAs have emerged as important regulators of the metastatic process. In addition, circulating miRNAs appear to be surprisingly stable in peripheral blood making them ideal noninvasive biomarkers for disease diagnosis. Here, we performed a proof-of-principle study to investigate the expression profile of circulating miRNAs and their association with the metastatic lymph node status in early breast cancer patients. Sentinel lymph node status was detected by one-step nucleic acid (OSNA) analysis. We performed RNA-sequencing in 16 plasma samples and validated the results by qPCR. Gene Ontology term enrichment and KEGG pathway analyses were carried out using DAVID tools. We found16 differentially expressed miRNAs (q < 0.01) in patients with positive SLNs. Fourteen miRNAs were down-regulated (miR-339-5p, miR-133a-3p, miR-326, miR-331-3p, miR-369-3p, miR-328-3p, miR-26a-3p, miR-139-3p, miR-493-3p, miR-664a-5p, miR-146a-5p, miR-323b-3p, miR-1307-3p and miR-423-3p) and 2 were up-regulated (miR-101-3pand miR-144-3p). Hierarchical clustering using differentially expressed miRNAs clearly distinguished patients according to their lymph node status. Gene ontology analysis showed a significant enrichment of biological processes associated with the regulation of the epithelial mesenchymal transition, cell proliferation and transcriptional regulation. Our results suggest the potential role of several circulating miRNAs as surrogate markers of lymph node metastases in early breast cancer patients. Further validation in a larger cohort of patients will be necessary to confirm our results.
Pulmonary Toxicity After Total Body Irradiation – Critical Review of the Literature and Recommendations for Toxicity Reporting
Authors: Vogel Jennifer , Hui Susanta , Hua Chia-Ho , Dusenbery Kathryn , Rassiah Premavarthy , Kalapurakal John , Constine Louis , Esiashvili Natia
Published: August 2021

Introduction

Total body irradiation is an effective conditioning regimen for allogeneic stem cell transplantation in pediatric and adult patients with high risk or relapsed/refractory leukemia. The most common adverse effect is pulmonary toxicity including idiopathic pneumonia syndrome (IPS). As centers adopt more advanced treatment planning techniques for TBI, total marrow irradiation (TMI), or total marrow and lymphoid irradiation (TMLI) there is a greater need to understand treatment-related risks for IPS for patients treated with conventional TBI. However, definitions of IPS as well as risk factors for IPS remain poorly characterized. In this study, we perform a critical review to further evaluate the literature describing pulmonary outcomes after TBI.

Materials and Methods

A search of publications from 1960-2020 was undertaken in PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library. Search terms included “total body irradiation”, “whole body radiation”, “radiation pneumonias”, “interstitial pneumonia”, and “bone marrow transplantation”. Demographic and treatment-related data was abstracted and evidence quality supporting risk factors for pulmonary toxicity was evaluated.

Results

Of an initial 119,686 publications, 118 met inclusion criteria. Forty-six (39%) studies included a definition for pulmonary toxicity. A grading scale was provided in 20 studies (17%). In 42% of studies the lungs were shielded to a set mean dose of 800cGy. Fourteen (12%) reported toxicity outcomes by patient age. Reported pulmonary toxicity ranged from 0-71% of patients treated with TBI, and IPS ranged from 1-60%. The most common risk factors for IPS were receipt of a TBI containing regimen, increasing dose rate, and lack of pulmonary shielding. Four studies found an increasing risk of pulmonary toxicity with increasing age.

Conclusions

Definitions of IPS as well as demographic and treatment-related risk factors remain poorly characterized in the literature. We recommend routine adoption of the diagnostic workup and the definition of IPS proposed by the American Thoracic Society. Additional study is required to determine differences in clinical and treatment-related risk between pediatric and adult patients. Further study using 3D treatment planning is warranted to enhance dosimetric precision and correlation of dose volume histograms with toxicities.
Kratom Use Within the Context of the Evolving Opioid Crisis and the COVID-19 Pandemic in the United States
Authors: Prozialeck Walter C. , Lamar Peter C. , Krupp Michael , Moon Matthew , Phelps Laura E. , Grundmann Oliver
Published: August 2021

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa, Korth.) is an evergreen tree that is indigenous to Southeast Asia. When ingested, kratom leaves or decoctions from the leaves have been reported to produce complex stimulant and opioid-like effects. For generations, native populations in Southeast Asia have used kratom products to stave off fatigue, improve mood, alleviate pain and manage symptoms of opioid withdrawal. Despite the long history of kratom use in Asia, it is only within the past 10–20 years that kratom has emerged as an important herbal agent in the United States, where it is being used for the self-treatment of pain, opioid withdrawal symptoms, and mood disorders. The increase in the use of kratom in the United States has coincided with the serious epidemic of opioid abuse and dependence. Since 2015, efforts to restrict access to prescription opioids have resulted in a marked increase in the use of “street” opioids such as heroin and illicit fentanyl. At the same time, many patients with chronic pain conditions or opioid use disorder have been denied access to appropriate medical help. The lack of access to care for patients with chronic pain and opioid use disorder has been magnified by the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic. In this report, we highlight how these converging factors have led to a surge in interest in kratom as a potential harm reduction agent in the treatment of pain and opioid use disorder.
Alpha Carbonic Anhydrase 5 Mediates Stimulation of ATP Synthesis by Bicarbonate in Isolated Arabidopsis Thylakoids
Authors: Fedorchuk Tatiana P. , Kireeva Inga A. , Opanasenko Vera K. , Terentyev Vasily V. , Rudenko Natalia N. , Borisova-Mubarakshina Maria M. , Ivanov Boris N.
Published: August 2021

We studied bicarbonate-induced stimulation of photophosphorylation in thylakoids isolated from leaves of Arabidopsis thaliana plants. This stimulation was not observed in thylakoids of wild-type in the presence of mafenide, a soluble carbonic anhydrase inhibitor, and was absent in thylakoids of two mutant lines lacking the gene encoding alpha carbonic anhydrase 5 (αCA5). Using mass spectrometry, we revealed the presence of αCA5 in stromal thylakoid membranes of wild-type plants. A possible mechanism of the photophosphorylation stimulation by bicarbonate that involves αCA5 is proposed.
Specific Physiological and Anatomical Traits Associated With Polyploidy and Better Detoxification Processes Contribute to Improved Huanglongbing Tolerance of the Persian Lime Compared With the Mexican Lime
Authors: Sivager Gary , Calvez Leny , Bruyere Saturnin , Boisne-Noc Rosiane , Brat Pierre , Gros Olivier , Ollitrault Patrick , Morillon Raphaël
Published: August 2021

Huanglongbing (HLB) is presently a major threat to the citrus industry. Because of this disease, millions of trees are currently dying worldwide. The putative causal agent is a motile bacteria belonging to Candidatus Liberibacter spp., which is transmitted by psyllids. The bacteria is responsible for the synthesis of callose at the phloem sieve plate, leading to the obstruction of the pores that provide connections between adjacent sieve elements, thus limiting the symplastic transport of the sugars and starches synthesized in leaves to the other plant organs. The Persian triploid lime (Citrus latifolia) is one of the most HLB-tolerant citrus varieties, but the determinants associated with the tolerance are still unknown. HLB-infected diploid Mexican lime (Citrus aurantiifolia) and Persian lime were investigated. The leaf petiole was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to observe callose deposition at the phloem sieve plate. Leaf starch contents and detoxification enzyme activities were investigated. In the field, Persian lime leaves present more limited symptoms due to HLB than the Mexican lime leaves do. Photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, and transpiration decreased compared with control plants, but values remained greater in the Persian than in the Mexican lime. Analysis of the petiole sieve plate in control petiole samples showed that pores were approximately 1.8-fold larger in the Persian than in the Mexican lime. SEM analyses of petiole samples of symptomatic leaves showed the important deposition of callose into pores of Mexican and Persian limes, whereas biochemical analyses revealed better detoxification in Persian limes than in Mexican limes. Moreover, SEM analyses of infected petiole samples of asymptomatic leaves showed much larger callose depositions into the Mexican lime pores than in the Persian lime pores, whereas biochemical traits revealed much better behavior in Persian limes than in Mexican limes. Our results reveal that polyploids present specific behaviors associated with important physiological and biochemical determinants that may explain the better tolerance of the Persian lime against HLB compared with the Mexican lime.
Implementation of Assistive Technologies and Robotics in Long-Term Care Facilities: A Three-Stage Assessment Based on Acceptance, Ethics, and Emotions
Authors: Franke Annette , Nass Elmar , Piereth Anna-Kathleen , Zettl Annabel , Heidl Christian
Published: August 2021

Assistive technologies including assistive robots (AT/AR) appear to be a promising response to the increasing prevalence of older adults in need of care. An increasing number of long-term care facilities (LTCFs) try to implement AT/AR in order to create a stimulating environment for aging well and to reduce workload for professional care staff. The implementation of new technologies in an organization may lead to noticeable cultural changes in terms of social interactions and care practices associated with positive or negative emotions for the employees. This applies especially for LTCFs with high rates of vulnerable residents affected by increasing care needs and specific ethics in nursing and cultural rules within the setting. Thus, systematic consideration in leadership management of emotions and ethical aspects is essential for stakeholders involved in the implementation process. In this article, we explicitly focus on the emotions of the employees and leaders within LTCFs. We relate to direct consequences for the organizational well-being and culture, which is of course (indirectly) affecting patients and residents. While aspects of technology acceptance such as safety and usefulness are frequently discussed in academic literature, the topic of emotion-management and ethical questions during the organizational implementation process in LTCFs received little attention. Emotional culture entails affective values, ethical norms and perceptions of employees and further investigation is needed to address the importance of transformational leadership during implementation process. For this purpose, we developed a three-staged assessment tool for implementation of AT/AR in long-term care institutions. Acceptance (A), ethical acceptability (A) and emotional consequences (E) are considered as comprehensive assessment, in which emotional consequences comprise management aspects of transformational leadership (T), emotion-management (E) and organizational culture (O). Based on AAE and TEO, this paper presents an integrated framework illustrated with a illustrative example and aims to combine established approaches with ethical insights in order to unfold potentials of AT/AR in LTCSs.
User-Agent Bond in Generalizable Environments: Long-Term Risk-Reduction via Nudged Virtual Choices
Authors: Wang Liyuan , Christensen John L. , Smith Benjamin J. , Gillig Traci K. , Jeong David C. , Liu Mingxuan , Appleby Paul R. , Read Stephen J. , Miller Lynn C.
Published: August 2021

Avatars or agents are digitized self-representations of a player in mediated environments. While using agents to navigate through mediated environments, players form bonds with their self-agents or characters, a process referred to as identification. Identification can involve automatic, but temporary, self-concept “shifts in implicit self-perceptions” (Klimmt et al., 2010, p. 323) of the media user by adopting or emphasizing the action choices on behalf of the social expectation of the avatar in the mediated environment. In the current study, we test the possibility that users' identification with video game avatars–a bond built between avatars and players- would account for subsequent behavior changes. We did so by using 3-month longitudinal data involving a narratively-based serious game: Socially Optimized Learning in Virtual Environments (SOLVE), a 3D-interactive game designed to reduce risky sexual behaviors among young men who have sex with men (n = 444). Results show that video game identification predicts both the reduction of risky sexual behaviors over time, and reduction in the number of non-primary partners with whom risky sex occurs. And when players identify with the game character, they tend to make healthier choices, which significantly mediates the link between video game identification and reduction of risky behaviors.
The Frequent Stressor and Mental Health Monitoring-Paradigm: A Proposal for the Operationalization and Measurement of Resilience and the Identification of Resilience Processes in Longitudinal Observational Studies
Authors: Kalisch Raffael , Köber Göran , Binder Harald , Ahrens Kira F. , Basten Ulrike , Chmitorz Andrea , Choi Karmel W. , Fiebach Christian J. , Goldbach Nele , Neumann Rebecca J. , Kampa Miriam , Kollmann Bianca , Lieb Klaus , Plichta Michael M. , Reif Andreas , Schick Anita , Sebastian Alexandra , Walter Henrik , Wessa Michèle , Yuen Kenneth S. L. , Tüscher Oliver , Engen Haakon
Published: August 2021

Resilience has been defined as the maintenance or quick recovery of mental health during and after times of adversity. How to operationalize resilience and to determine the factors and processes that lead to good long-term mental health outcomes in stressor-exposed individuals is a matter of ongoing debate and of critical importance for the advancement of the field. One of the biggest challenges for implementing an outcome-based definition of resilience in longitudinal observational study designs lies in the fact that real-life adversity is usually unpredictable and that its substantial qualitative as well as temporal variability between subjects often precludes defining circumscribed time windows of inter-individually comparable stressor exposure relative to which the maintenance or recovery of mental health can be determined. To address this pertinent issue, we propose to frequently and regularly monitor stressor exposure (E) and mental health problems (P) throughout a study's observation period [Frequent Stressor and Mental Health Monitoring (FRESHMO)-paradigm]. On this basis, a subject's deviation at any single monitoring time point from the study sample's normative E–P relationship (the regression residual) can be used to calculate that subject's current mental health reactivity to stressor exposure (“stressor reactivity,” SR). The SR score takes into account the individual extent of experienced adversity and is comparable between and within subjects. Individual SR time courses across monitoring time points reflect intra-individual temporal variability in SR, where periods of under-reactivity (negative SR score) are associated with accumulation of fewer mental health problems than is normal for the sample. If FRESHMO is accompanied by regular measurement of potential resilience factors, temporal changes in resilience factors can be used to predict SR time courses. An increase in a resilience factor measurement explaining a lagged decrease in SR can then be considered to index a process of adaptation to stressor exposure that promotes a resilient outcome (an allostatic resilience process). This design principle allows resilience research to move beyond merely determining baseline predictors of resilience outcomes, which cannot inform about how individuals successfully adjust and adapt when confronted with adversity. Hence, FRESHMO plus regular resilience factor monitoring incorporates a dynamic-systems perspective into resilience research.
Global Surgery Indicators and Pediatric Hydrocephalus: A Multicenter Cross-Country Comparative Study Building the Case for Health System Strengthening
Authors: Ferraris Kevin Paul , Palabyab Eric Paolo M. , Kim Sergei , Matsumura Hideaki , Yap Maria Eufemia C. , Cloma-Rosales Venus Oliva , Letyagin German , Muroi Ai , Baticulon Ronnie E. , Alcazaren Jose Carlos , Seng Kenny , Navarro Joseph Erroll
Published: August 2021

Objective: The aim of this study is to compare specific three-institution, cross-country data that are relevant to the Global Surgery indicators and the functioning of health systems.

Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the clinical and socioeconomic characteristics of pediatric patients who underwent cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) diversion surgery for hydrocephalus in three different centers: the University of Tsukuba Hospital in Ibaraki, Japan (HIC), the Jose R. Reyes Memorial Medical Center in Manila, Philippines [low-to-middle-income country (LMIC)], and the Federal Neurosurgical Center in Novosibirsk, Russia (UMIC). The outcomes of interest were the timing of CSF diversion surgery and mortality. Statistical tests included descriptive statistics, Cox proportional hazards model, and logistic regression. Nation-level data were also obtained to provide the relevant socioeconomic contexts in discussing the results.

Results: In total, 159 children were included, where 13 are from Japan, 99 are from the Philippines, and 47 are from the Russian Federation. The median time to surgery at the specific neurosurgical centers was 6 days in the Philippines and 1 day in both Japan and Russia. For the cohort from the Philippines, non-poor patients were more likely to receive CSF diversion surgery at an earlier time (HR = 4.74, 95% CI 2.34–9.61, p <0.001). In the same center, those with infantile or posthemorrhagic hydrocephalus (HR = 3.72, 95% CI 1.70–8.15, p = 0.001) were more likely to receive CSF diversion earlier compared to those with congenital hydrocephalus, and those with postinfectious (HR = 0.39, 95% CI 0.22–0.70, p = 0.002) or myelomeningocele-associated hydrocephalus (HR = 0.46, 95% CI 0.22–0.95, p = 0.037) were less likely to undergo surgery at an earlier time. For Russia, older patients were more likely to receive or require early CSF diversion (HR = 1.07, 95% CI 1.01–1.14, p = 0.035). External ventricular drain (EVD) insertion was found to be associated with mortality (cOR 14.45, 95% CI 1.28–162.97, p = 0.031).

Conclusion: In this study, Filipino children underwent late time-interval of CSF diversion surgery and had mortality differences compared to their Japanese and Russian counterparts. These disparities may reflect on the functioning of the health systems of respective countries.
Topology Optimization of Large-Scale 3D Morphing Wing Structures
Authors: Jensen Peter Dørffler Ladegaard , Wang Fengwen , Dimino Ignazio , Sigmund Ole
Published: August 2021

This work proposes a systematic topology optimization approach for simultaneously designing the morphing functionality and actuation in three-dimensional wing structures. The actuation was modeled by a linear-strain-based expansion in the actuation material. A three-phase material model was employed to represent structural and actuating materials and voids. To ensure both structural stiffness with respect to aerodynamic loading and morphing capabilities, the optimization problem was formulated to minimize structural compliance, while the morphing functionality was enforced by constraining a morphing error between the actual and target wing shape. Moreover, a feature-mapping approach was utilized to constrain and simplify the actuator geometries. A trailing edge wing section was designed to validate the proposed optimization approach. Numerical results demonstrated that three-dimensional optimized wing sections utilize a more advanced structural layout to enhance structural performance while keeping the morphing functionality better than two-dimensional wing ribs. The work presents the first step towards the systematic design of three-dimensional morphing wing sections.
Evaluation of a Fixed Spraying System for Phytosanitary Treatments in Heroic Viticulture in North-Eastern Italy
Authors: Imperatore Gaetano , Ghirardelli Aurora , Strinna Luca , Baldoin Cristiano , Pozzebon Alberto , Zanin Giuseppe , Otto Stefan
Published: August 2021

Modern viticulture cannot be practiced without the use of plant protection products to control diseases like downy mildew, powdery mildew, and pests. In severely sloping vineyards, where mechanization is not possible, pesticide application is realized using spray guns, which is a laborious, expensive, and dangerous application technique. In these vineyards, where viticulture is defined as “heroic viticulture,” vine-growers could seriously take advantage of innovation in spray-technique applications. For this reason, several prototypes of a fixed spraying system (FSS) were realized in recent years. Two prototypes of a fixed spraying system were built in 2019 in two different vineyards in the Veneto region (north-eastern Italy). In both vineyards, the fixed spraying systems were used to perform pesticide application during the 2020 season to control downy mildew, powdery mildew, and pests. With this solution, both vineyards were successfully protected, resulting in comparable infection degrees and yields as the ones protected with airblast sprayers and spray guns. This study contributes to assert fixed spraying systems as an innovation that could improve working conditions, safety, timing, and performances of plant protection products’ application in heroic viticulture areas.
Genetic Diversity and Population Structure of Japanese Plum-Type (Hybrids of P. salicina) Accessions Assessed by SSR Markers
Authors: Guerrero Brenda I. , Guerra M. Engracia , Herrera Sara , Irisarri Patricia , Pina Ana , Rodrigo Javier
Published: August 2021

Japanese plum (Prunus salicina Lindl.) is widely distributed in temperate zones across the world. Since its introduction to USA in the late 19th century, this species has been hybridized with up to 15 different diploid Prunus species. This high level of introgression has resulted in a wide range of traits and agronomic behaviors among currently grown cultivars. In this work, 161 Japanese plum-type accessions were genotyped using a set of eight Simple Sequence Repeats (SSR) markers to assess the current genetic diversity and population structure. A total of 104 alleles were detected, with an average of 13 alleles per locus. The overall Polymorphic Informative Content (PIC) value of SSR markers was 0.75, which indicates that these SSR markers are highly polymorphic. The Unweighted Pair Group Method with Arithmetic (UPGMA) dendrogram and the seven groups inferred by Discriminant Analysis of Principal Components (DAPC) revealed a strong correlation of the population structure to the parentage background of the accessions, supported by a moderate but highly significant genetic differentiation. The results reported herein provide useful information for breeders and for the preservation of germplasm resources.
Potential of the Biomass of Plants Grown in Trace Element-Contaminated Soils under Mediterranean Climatic Conditions for Bioenergy Production
Authors: Bernal María Pilar , Grippi Donatella , Clemente Rafael
Published: August 2021

Phytomanagement of trace element-contaminated soils combines sustainable soil remediation with the use of plant biomass for different applications. Consequently, phytostabilization using plant species useful for bioenergy production has recently received increasing attention. However, the water requirement of most of these species is a limitation for their use under Mediterranean climatic conditions. In this work, eight plant species growing naturally in mine soils contaminated by trace elements were evaluated for their use as bioenergy crops using thermochemical (combustion) and biochemical (anaerobic digestion) methods. The higher heating values of the biomass of the plants studied were all within a narrow range (16.03–18.75 MJ kg−1), while their biochemical methane potentials ranged from 86.0 to 227.4 mL CH4 (g VS)−1. The anaerobic degradation was not influenced by the presence of trace elements in the plants, but the mineral content (mainly Na) negatively affected the potential thermal energy released by combustion (HHV). The highest annual energy yields from biogas or combustion could be obtained by the cultivation of Phragmites australis and Arundo donax, followed by Piptatherum miliaceum. Both options can be considered to be suitable final destinations for the biomass obtained in the phytostabilization of trace element-contaminated soils and may contribute to the implementation of these remediation techniques in Mediterranean areas.
Economic and Environmental Sustainability of Olive Production: A Case Study
Authors: Maesano Giulia , Chinnici Gaetano , Falcone Giacomo , Bellia Claudio , Raimondo Maria , D’Amico Mario
Published: August 2021

This paper aims to achieve an economic feasibility and life cycle assessment of three different olive cultivation systems in the Mediterranean area through the joint use of economic and environmental indicators, in order to identify the key elements to optimize their economic performance and a lower environmental impact. Three different management systems of olive cultivation were analysed by distinguishing Treatment 1—Fully Irrigated, Treatment 2—Partially Irrigated, and Treatment 3—Non-Irrigated, which were conducted through different levels of irrigation strategies. The three scenarios were examined using a Life Cycle Assessment methodology to assess the environmental impacts, and the impact in terms of water footprint was investigated using the Water Scarcity Index approach. The economic sustainability evaluation of olive cultivation was carried out through economic indicators, taking into account all of the cost and revenue factors of the olive cultivation in each management system. The results showed, overall, a suitable level of profitability of different scenarios, except for the Partially Irrigated treatment, as the investment costs of the irrigation system are not economically sustainable with regard to the revenue obtained. Furthermore, the findings highlighted the importance of irrigation management strategies to decrease agricultural practice costs and the negative environmental impact of olive production.
Hypoxic and Thermal Stress: Many Ways Leading to the NOS/NO System in the Fish Heart
Authors: Filice Mariacristina , Imbrogno Sandra , Gattuso Alfonsina , Cerra Maria Carmela
Published: August 2021

Teleost fish are often regarded with interest for the remarkable ability of several species to tolerate even dramatic stresses, either internal or external, as in the case of fluctuations in O2 availability and temperature regimes. These events are naturally experienced by many fish species under different time scales, but they are now exacerbated by growing environmental changes. This further challenges the intrinsic ability of animals to cope with stress. The heart is crucial for the stress response, since a proper modulation of the cardiac function allows blood perfusion to the whole organism, particularly to respiratory organs and the brain. In cardiac cells, key signalling pathways are activated for maintaining molecular equilibrium, thus improving stress tolerance. In fish, the nitric oxide synthase (NOS)/nitric oxide (NO) system is fundamental for modulating the basal cardiac performance and is involved in the control of many adaptive responses to stress, including those related to variations in O2 and thermal regimes. In this review, we aim to illustrate, by integrating the classic and novel literature, the current knowledge on the NOS/NO system as a crucial component of the cardiac molecular mechanisms that sustain stress tolerance and adaptation, thus providing some species, such as tolerant cyprinids, with a high resistance to stress.
An Equivalent Radial Stiffness Method of Laboratory SEPT on Anchorage Performance Prediction of Rockbolts under Different Field Geoconditions
Authors: Zhang Ming , Han Jun , Bi Zuoqing , Cao Chen , Wu Tao , Ma Shuangwen
Published: August 2021

The short encapsulation pull-out test (SEPT) is extensively used in rockbolting research or engineering. The field SEPT is time-consuming and labor-intensive, and its result is only applicable to the tested in situ. The laboratory SEPT is usually employed in theoretical rockbolting research due to its easily controlled variables. However, the design of laboratory SEPT is quite different, as there is no standard testing method, resulting in the applicability and limitations of each study not being clear. Accordingly, the aim of this paper is to bridge the gap between laboratory SEPT research and field application. On the basis of thick-walled cylinder theory, a mechanical model of a rock bolt subjected to axial load was established under consideration of the deformational behavior of confining materials around the bolt. Plane stress analysis was introduced to derive the analytical relationship between the axial force of the bolt and the deformation of the confining materials. A new approach of laboratory SEPT sample design was established, namely, equivalent radial stiffness theory, to simulate anchorage performance in a specific in-situ geocondition. Consequently, the field SETP could be replaced by laboratory testing using properly designed bolting samples with a certain level of accuracy. In addition, the application scope of previous laboratory SEPT research could be accurately defined. Laboratory SEPT was carried out to study the anchoring performance of right spiral rebar bolts under different confining materials. Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC) tubes with a thickness of 31 mm, #60 aluminum (Al) tubes with a thickness of 5.8 mm, and #20 steel tubes with a thickness of 5.5, 7.0 mm were used in sample preparation to simulate soft, medium, and hard surrounding rocks in the field. The anchorage performance of the bolt under different geoconditions was systematically proposed, which provides a technical approach for similar research using different anchoring materials. A negative exponential expression formulating the axial load capacity of the right spiral bolts for the full spectrum of the surrounding rocks’ strength was derived on the basis of theoretical analysis and data regression. It can be used for preliminary reinforcement design, as well as the accurate key parameter setting in the numerical calculation of roadway deformation using right spiral bolts. The theoretical prediction is highly consistent with the testing results in the literature, which confirms the validity and reliability of this research. This study contributes to the establishment of a laboratory SEPT standard in rock mechanics.
Synchrotron X-ray Microprobes: An Application on Ancient Ceramics
Authors: Gianoncelli Alessandra , Kourousias George , Schöder Sebastian , Santostefano Antonella , L’Héronde Maëva , Barone Germana , Mazzoleni Paolo , Raneri Simona
Published: August 2021

Synchrotron X-ray µ- and nano-probes are increasingly affirming their relevance in cultural heritage applications, especially in material characterization of tiny and complex micro-samples which are typical from archaeological and artistic artifacts. For such purposes, synchrotron radiation facilities are tailoring and optimizing beamlines and set-ups for CH, taking also advantages from the challenges offered by the third-generation radiation sources. In ancient ceramics studies, relevant information for the identification of production centers and manufacture technology can be obtained in a non-invasive and non-destructive way at the micro-sample level by combining different SR based methods. However, the selection of appropriate beamlines, techniques and set-ups are critical for the success of the experiments. Fine and varnished wares (e.g., Attic and western-Greek colonial products) are an excellent case study for exploring challenges offered by synchrotron X-ray microprobes optimized to collect microchemical and phase-distribution maps. The determination of provenance and/or technological tracers is relevant in correctly classifying productions, often based only on ceramic paste, gloss macroscopic features or style. In addition, when these vessels are preserved in Museums as masterpieces or intact pieces the application of non-invasive approach at the micro sample is strictly required. Well-designed synchrotron µXRF and µXANES mapping experiments are able providing relevant clues for discriminating workshops and exploring technological aspects, which are fundamental in answering the current archaeological questions on varnished Greek or western-Greek colonial products.
Late Reverberant Spectral Variance Estimation for Single-Channel Dereverberation Using Adaptive Parameter Estimator
Authors: Zhang Zhaoqi , Feng Xuelei , Shen Yong
Published: August 2021

The estimation of the late reverberant spectral variance (LRSV) is of paramount importance in most reverberation suppression algorithms. This letter proposes an improved single-channel LRSV estimator based on Habets LRSV estimator by using an adaptive parameter estimator. Instead of estimating the direct-to-reverberation ratio (DRR), the proposed LRSV estimator directly estimates the parameter κ in a generalized statistical model since the experimental results show that even the κ calculated using measured ground truth DRR may not be the optimal parameter for the LRSV estimator. Experimental results using synthetic reverberant signals demonstrate the superiority of the proposed estimator to conventional approaches.
State of the Art in Comorbidities and Complications Associated with Sleep-Related Breathing Disorders
Authors: Ciavarella Domenico , Tepedino Michele , Troiano Giuseppe
Published: August 2021

The term “sleep-related breathing disorders” (SRDB) comprehends a spectrum of pathologic conditions characterized by abnormal respiration during sleep, that can affect both adults and growing subjects. The expanding knowledge on this topic has revealed that impaired sleeping and breathing have profound effects on many systemic functions, therefore a modern approach requires the collaboration of different professionals like the otorhinolaryngologist, pneumologist, neurologist, cardiologist, psychologist, dentist, and many others. The real prevalence of such conditions is unknown, especially in children, even though a growing awareness can be found among Governments, researchers, and public opinion, especially for the social implications that SRDB can have. Moreover, recent studies have raised attention on comorbidities that can be associated with SRDB, influencing each other. Regarding the current international situation, it would be interesting to evaluate the progress of COVID-19 disease in SRDB patients. Defining the state-of-the-art knowledge on all the conditions orbiting around SRDB, from all points of view—aetiology, diagnosis, clinical management, interdisciplinarity, public health management—would be of great interest and impact to improve future research and the quality of life of SRDB patients.
SPOT: Testing Stream Processing Programs with Symbolic Execution and Stream Synthesizing
Authors: Ye Qian , Lu Minyan
Published: August 2021

Adoption of distributed stream processing (DSP) systems such as Apache Flink in real-time big data processing is increasing. However, DSP programs are prone to be buggy, especially when one programmer neglects some DSP features (e.g., source data reordering), which motivates development of approaches for testing and verification. In this paper, we focus on the test data generation problem for DSP programs. Currently, there is a lack of an approach that generates test data for DSP programs with both high path coverage and covering different stream reordering situations. We present a novel solution, SPOT (i.e., Stream Processing Program Test), to achieve these two goals simultaneously. At first, SPOT generates a set of individual test data representing each path of one DSP program through symbolic execution. Then, SPOT composes these independent data into various time series data (a.k.a, stream) in diverse reordering. Finally, we can perform a test by feeding the DSP program with these streams continuously. To automatically support symbolic analysis, we also developed JPF-Flink, a JPF (i.e., Java Pathfinder) extension to coordinate the execution of Flink programs. We present four case studies to illustrate that: (1) SPOT can support symbolic analysis for the commonly used DSP operators; (2) test data generated by SPOT can more efficiently achieve high JDU (i.e., Joint Dataflow and UDF) path coverage than two recent DSP testing approaches; (3) test data generated by SPOT can more easily trigger software failure when comparing with those two DSP testing approaches; and (4) the data randomly generated by those two test techniques are highly skewed in terms of stream reordering, which is measured by the entropy metric. In comparison, it is even for test data from SPOT.
Application of Thermodynamics and Protein–Protein Interaction Network Topology for Discovery of Potential New Treatments for Temporal Lobe Epilepsy
Authors: Yu Chang , Rietman Edward A. , Siegelmann Hava T. , Cavaglia Marco , Tuszynski Jack A.
Published: August 2021

In this paper, we propose a bioinformatics-based method, which introduces thermodynamic measures and topological characteristics aimed to identify potential drug targets for pharmaco-resistant epileptic patients. We apply the Gibbs homology analysis to the protein–protein interaction network characteristic of temporal lobe epilepsy. With the identification of key proteins involved in the disease, particularly a number of ribosomal proteins, an assessment of their inhibitors is the next logical step. The results of our work offer a direction for future development of prospective therapeutic solutions for epilepsy patients, especially those who are not responding to the current standard of care.
Educational Organization’s Security Level Estimation Model
Authors: Ramanauskaitė Simona , Urbonaitė Neringa , Grigaliūnas Šarūnas , Preidys Saulius , Trinkūnas Vaidotas , Venčkauskas Algimantas
Published: August 2021

During the pandemic, distance learning gained its necessity. Most schools and universities were forced to use e-learning tools. The fast transition to distance learning increased the digitalization of the educational system and influenced the increase of security incident numbers as there was no time to estimate the security level change by incorporating new e-learning systems. Notably, preparation for distance learning was accompanied by several limitations: lack of time, lack of resources to manage the information technologies and systems, lack of knowledge on information security management, and security level modeling. In this paper, we propose a security level estimation model for educational organizations. This model takes into account distance learning specifics and allows quantitative estimation of an organization’s security level. It is based on 49 criteria values, structured into an AHP (Analytic Hierarchy Process) tree, and arranged to final security level metric by incorporating experts’ opinion-based criteria importance coefficients. The research proposed a criteria tree and obtained experts’ opinions lead to educational organization security level evaluation model, resulting in one quantitative metric. It can be used to model different situations and find the better alternative in case of security level, without external security experts usage. Use case analysis results and their similarity to security experts’ evaluation are presented in this paper as validation of the proposed model. It confirms the model meets experts-based information security level ranking, therefore, can be used for simpler security modeling in educational organizations.
Effect of Unaware Clock Manipulation on Pacing Strategy and Performance in Recreational Athletes
Authors: Terra Augusto , Paulucio Dailson , Machado Marco , Bishop David J. , Koch Alexander J. , Alvarenga Renato , Pompeu Fernando A. M. S.
Published: August 2021

It is unclear how athletes regulate their performance prior and during exercise when deceptive methods are applied. Therefore, the aim of this study was to test if time manipulation can influence pacing strategy and running performance. Ten recreationally active subjects were informed they would complete four 60-min time trials only with time feedback. The first session was a familiarization trial (60-min), and in the following three sessions, the time feedback was modified: normal chronometer (NC—60 min.), 10% faster (Faster chronometer—FC—54 min.), and 10% slower (slower chronometer—SC—66 min.). Total distance was different between conditions, while average of total speed, Heart Rate, oxygen consumption, and Rate of Perceived Exertion were similar (p > 0.05). A slow start pacing strategy was adopted in all conditions and did not differ between conditions when averaged across the session; however, when analyzing the first and final 10 min of the session, differences were found between conditions. Finally, the observed time was an important determinant of the regulation of exercise intensity, because, although the pacing strategy adopted in all conditions was regulated according to previous exercise information, adjustments were made in the initial (NC) and final (FC) phases of the trials.
Quantification of the Information Loss Resulting from Temporal Aggregation of Wind Turbine Operating Data
Authors: Beretta Mattia , Pelka Karoline , Cusidó Jordi , Lichtenstein Timo
Published: August 2021

SCADA operating data are more and more used across the wind energy domain, both as a basis for power output prediction and turbine health status monitoring. Current industry practice to work with this data is by aggregating the signals at coarse resolution of typically 10-min averages, in order to reduce data transmission and storage costs. However, aggregation, i.e., downsampling, induces an inevitable loss of information and is one of the main causes of skepticism towards the use of SCADA operating data to model complex systems such as wind turbines. This research aims to quantify the amount of information that is lost due to this downsampling of SCADA operating data and characterize it with respect to the external factors that might influence it. The issue of information loss is framed by three key questions addressing effects on the local and global scale as well as the influence of external conditions. Moreover, recommendations both for wind farm operators and researchers are provided with the aim to improve the information content. We present a methodology to determine the ideal signal resolution that minimized storage footprint, while guaranteeing high quality of the signal. Data related to the wind, electrical signals, and temperatures of the gearbox resulted as the critical signals that are largely affected by an information loss upon aggregation and turned out to be best recorded and stored at high resolutions. All analyses were carried out using more than one year of 1 Hz SCADA data of onshore wind farm counting 12 turbines located in the UK.