bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Multi-Point Meso–Micro Downscaling Method Including Atmospheric Stratification
Authors: Buhr Renko , Kassem Hassan , Steinfeld Gerald , Alletto Michael , Witha Björn , Dörenkämper Martin
Published: February 2021

In wind energy site assessment, one major challenge is to represent both the local characteristics as well as general representation of the wind climate on site. Micro-scale models (e.g., Reynolds-Averaged-Navier-Stokes (RANS)) excel in the former, while meso-scale models (e.g., Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF)) in the latter. This paper presents a fast approach for meso–micro downscaling to an industry-applicable computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling framework. The model independent postprocessing tool chain is applied using the New European Wind Atlas (NEWA) on the meso-scale and THETA on the micro-scale side. We adapt on a previously developed methodology and extend it using a micro-scale model including stratification. We compare a single- and multi-point downscaling in critical flow situations and proof the concept on long-term mast data at Rödeser Berg in central Germany. In the longterm analysis, in respect to the pure meso-scale results, the statistical bias can be reduced up to 45% with a single-point downscaling and up to 107% (overcorrection of 7%) with a multi-point downscaling. We conclude that single-point downscaling is vital to combine meso-scale wind climate and micro-scale accuracy. The multi-point downscaling is further capable to include wind shear or veer from the meso-scale model into the downscaled velocity field. This adds both, accuracy and robustness, by minimal computational cost. The new introduction of stratification in the micro-scale model provides a marginal difference for the selected stability conditions, but gives a prospect on handling stratification in wind energy site assessment for future applications.
Modified SPWM Technique with Zero-Sequence Voltage Injection for a Five-Phase, Three-Level NPC Inverter
Authors: Odeh Charles , Kondratenko Dmytro , Lewicki Arkadiusz , Jąderko Andrzej
Published: February 2021

This article presents a modified sinusoidal pulse-width modulation (SPWM) scheme for a five-phase, three-level neutral-point-clamped inverter. The modulation scheme deploys a modified min–max function to inject the zero-sequence components into the reference modulating signals; hence enabling the effective utilization of the DC-link voltage. Balanced split-input DC-link voltages were achieved through further incorporation of adjustable voltage-dependent variables into the reference signals. The dynamic performance of the control approach is demonstrated through simulations and experiments on a laboratory inverter prototype; the results are well presented.
Longitudinal Dynamics Simulation Tool for Hybrid APU and Full Electric Vehicle
Authors: Sandrini Giulia , Gadola Marco , Chindamo Daniel
Published: February 2021

Due to problems related to environmental pollution and fossil fuels consumption that have not infinite availability, the automotive sector is increasingly moving towards electric powertrains. The most limiting aspect of this category of vehicles is certainly the battery pack, regarding the difficulty in obtaining high range with good performance and low weights. The aim of this work is to provide a simulation tool, which allows for the analysis of the performance of different types of electric and hybrid powertrains, concerning both mechanical and electrical aspects. Through this model it is possible to test different vehicle configurations before prototype realization or to investigate the impact that subsystems’ modifications may have on a vehicle under development. This will allow to speed-up the model-based design process typical for fully electric and hybrid vehicles. The model aims to be at the same time complete but simple enough to lower the simulation time and computational burden so that it can be used in real-time applications, such as driving simulators. All this reduces the time and costs of vehicle design. Validation is also provided, based on a real vehicle and comparison with another consolidated simulation tool. Maximum error on mechanical quantities is proved to be within 5% while on electrical quantities it is always lower than 10%.
Analysis and Experimental Verification of a Variable Speed Turbo Air Centrifugal Compressor System for Energy Saving
Authors: Kim Sung-An , Hong Kyung-Pyo
Published: February 2021

Conventional constant speed turbo air centrifugal compressor systems (TACCSs) consist of an electric motor driven at the constant speed and an inlet guide vane (IGV) for pressure control. TACCSs with an inverter for a variable speed drive (VSD) of the electric motor are more efficient than the conventional constant speed TACCS because they have a wide operating range and can minimize the power consumption. Therefore, this paper proposes a quadratic V/f control and VSD to reduce electrical and mechanical energy losses. To verify the energy saving effect of the TACCS with the proposed controls, this paper analyzes the performances of an electric motor drive system (EMDS) using the proposed quadratic V/f control considering load conditions of the turbo air centrifugal compressor (TACC) to reduce electrical energy losses. Furthermore, the performances of the conventional constant speed drive (CSD) using the IGV control and the proposed VSD were compared and analyzed in the test bench that represented an actual factory environment. As a result, the proposed quadratic V/f control and VSD experimentally verified energy savings of 4.44% and 23.37% compared to conventional controls. In addition, the economic feasibility of the proposed VSD was verified in the TACCS by analyzing the recovery period of the initial investment due to the addition of the inverter.
Field Performance of South-Facing and East-West Facing Bifacial Modules in the Arctic
Authors: Pike Christopher , Whitney Erin , Wilber Michelle , Stein Joshua S.
Published: February 2021

This paper presents the first systematic comparison between south-facing monofacial and bifacial photovoltaic (PV) modules, as well as between south-facing bifacial and vertical east-west facing bifacial PV modules in Alaska. The state’s solar industry, driven by the high price of energy and dropping equipment costs, is quickly growing. The challenges posed by extreme sun angles in Alaska’s northern regions also present opportunities for unique system designs. Annual bifacial gains of 21% were observed between side by side south-facing monofacial and bifacial modules. Vertical east-west bifacial modules had virtually the same annual production as south-facing latitude tilt bifacial modules, but with different energy production profiles.
Effect of the Reactant Transportation on Performance of a Planar Solid Oxide Fuel Cell
Authors: Wang Yongqing , Li Xingchen , Guo Zhenning , Wang Ke , Cao Yan
Published: February 2021

The process of reactant transportation greatly affects the performance of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). Therefore, a three-dimension numerical SOFC model was built to evaluate mainly the effect of the reactant transportation coupling of heat and mass transfer and electrochemical reactions, and the reliability of numerical calculations was validated. Numerical studies revealed the correlation of both increase of reactant concentration gradients and improved mass transfer capability of multi reactants in gas diffusion electrode with the enhancement of the SOFC performance, in the condition of enough supplies of the fuel and the oxidant. Further studies identified the oxygen ions conductivity in electrolytes played a critical role in energy output and thus the performance of SOFCs. For example, the current density would increase by 65% if the ionic conductivity of electrolytes doubled. This study gives insight into the significance of operational conditions, electrolytes, and structures on the ionic oxygen conductivity and further on the optimization of the SOFCs. Overall, the numerical modeling leads a clear path toward the optimization of SOFCs.
An Open-Source Code for Fluid Flow Simulations in Unconventional Fractured Reservoirs
Authors: Wang Bin , Fidelibus Corrado
Published: February 2021

In this article, an open-source code for the simulation of fluid flow, including adsorption, transport, and indirect hydromechanical coupling in unconventional fractured reservoirs is described. The code leverages cutting-edge numerical modeling capabilities like automatic differentiation, stochastic fracture modeling, multicontinuum modeling, and discrete fracture models. In the fluid mass balance equation, specific physical mechanisms, unique to organic-rich source rocks, are included, like an adsorption isotherm, a dynamic permeability-correction function, and an Embedded Discrete Fracture Model (EDFM) with fracture-to-well connectivity. The code is validated against an industrial simulator and applied for a study of the performance of the Barnett shale reservoir, where adsorption, gas slippage, diffusion, indirect hydromechanical coupling, and propped fractures are considered. It is the first open-source code available to facilitate the modeling and production optimization of fractured shale-gas reservoirs. The modular design also facilitates rapid prototyping and demonstration of new models. This article also contains a quantitative analysis of the accuracy and limitations of EDFM for gas production simulation in unconventional fractured reservoirs.
Socioeconomic Factors Related to Job Satisfaction among Formal Care Workers in Nursing Homes for Older Dependent Adults
Authors: Pardo-Garcia Isabel , Martinez-Lacoba Roberto , Escribano-Sotos Francisco
Published: February 2021

Population ageing is increasing the demand for dependent care. Aged care nursing homes are facilities that provide formal care for dependent older persons. Determining the level of job satisfaction among workers in nursing homes and the associated factors is key to enhancing their well-being and the quality of care. A cross-sectional survey was administered online to nursing home workers (n = 256) in an inland region of Spain over the period from February to May 2017. The questionnaire collected data on sociodemographic variables and others related to training and job satisfaction. The results show that most of the care is delivered by women with a medium level of education. A total of 68% of workers had received formal training, although a significant percentage (65%) thought this was not useful. The highest level of satisfaction was found to be related to users and co-workers. Our factor analysis revealed that the satisfaction components are decision-making, working conditions—e.g., schedule—and the work environment—e.g., relationship with coworkers—. Length of service and working with highly dependent persons are negatively associated with these components. Working in social health care is negatively related to decision-making and working conditions. Training, in contrast, is positively associated with these components. Care is a job that requires appropriate training and preparation to provide quality assistance and to guarantee workers’ well-being.
Quality of Life and Associated Factors in Young Workers
Authors: Andrade Louzado José , Lopes Cortes Matheus , Oliveira Márcio Galvão , Moraes Bezerra Vanessa , Mistro Sóstenes , Souto de Medeiros Danielle , Arruda Soares Daniela , Oliveira Silva Kelle , Nicolaevna Kochergin Clávdia , Honorato dos Santos de Carvalho Vivian Carla , Amorim Welma Wildes , Serrate Mengue Sotero
Published: February 2021

Background: This study aimed to identify the factors associated with the quality of life of young workers of a Social Work of Industry Unit. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted on 1270 workers. Data were collected using a digital questionnaire built on the KoBoToolbox platform that included the EUROHIS-QOL eight-item index to assess quality of life. Demographic, socioeconomic, behavioral, and clinical variables were considered explanatory. The associations were analyzed using the ordinal logistic regression model at a 5% significance level. Results: Men and women had a mean quality of life of 31.1 and 29.4, respectively. Workers that rated their health as “very good” had an odds ratio of 7.4 (95% confidence interval (CI) = 5.17–10.81), and those who rated it as “good” had an odds ratio of 2.9 (95% CI = 2.31–3.77). Both these groups of workers were more likely to have higher levels of quality of life as compared to workers with “regular”, “poor”, or “very poor” self-rated health. Physically active individuals were 30% more likely to have higher levels of quality of life (odds ratio = 1.3; 95% CI = 1.08–1.65). After adjusting the model by gender, age group, marital status, socioeconomic class, self-rated health, nutritional status, and risky alcohol consumption, the odds ratio of active individuals remained stable (odds ratio = 1.3; 95% CI = 1.05–1.66). Conclusions: In the present study, self-rated health, physical activity, and gender were associated with young workers’ quality of life.
Pavement Overrides the Effects of Tree Species on Soil Bacterial Communities
Authors: Hu Yinhong , Yu Weiwei , Cui Bowen , Chen Yuanyuan , Zheng Hua , Wang Xiaoke
Published: February 2021

Human disturbance and vegetation are known to affect soil microorganisms. However, the interacting effects of pavement and plant species on soil bacterial communities have received far less attention. In this study, we collected soil samples from pine (Pinus tabuliformis Carr.), ash (Fraxinus chinensis), and maple (Acer truncatum Bunge) stands that grew in impervious, pervious, and no pavement blocks to investigate the way pavement, tree species, and their interaction influence soil bacterial communities by modifying soil physicochemical properties. Soil bacterial community composition and diversity were evaluated by bacterial 16S amplicon sequencing. The results demonstrated that soil bacterial community composition and diversity did differ significantly across pavements, but not with tree species. The difference in soil bacterial community composition across pavements was greater in pine stands than ash and maple stands. Soil bacterial diversity and richness indices decreased beneath impervious pavement in pine stands, and only bacterial richness indices decreased markedly in ash stands, but neither showed a significant difference across pavements in maple stands. In addition, bacterial diversity did not differ dramatically between pervious pavement and no pavement soil. Taken together, these results suggest that pavement overwhelmed the effects of tree species on soil bacterial communities, and had a greater effect on soil bacterial communities in pine stands, followed by ash and maple stands. This study highlights the importance of anthropogenic disturbance, such as pavement, which affects soil microbial communities.
EU’s Ordering of COVID-19 Vaccine Doses: Political Decision-Making under Uncertainty
Authors: Gleißner Werner , Follert Florian , Daumann Frank , Leibbrand Frank
Published: February 2021

Worldwide, politicians, scientists, and entrepreneurs are operating under high uncertainty and incomplete information regarding the adequacy of measures to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic. It seems indisputable that only widespread and global immunity can bring normalization to social life. In this respect, the development of a vaccine was a milestone in pandemic control. However, within the EU, especially in Germany, the vaccination plan is increasingly faltering, and criticism is growing louder. This paper considers the EU’s political decision in general and the decisions of the German government to procure vaccine doses against the background of modern economics as a decision under uncertainty and critically analyzes the process.
Intimate Partner Cyberstalking, Sexism, Pornography, and Sexting in Adolescents: New Challenges for Sex Education
Authors: Rodríguez-Castro Yolanda , Martínez-Román Rosana , Alonso-Ruido Patricia , Adá-Lameiras Alba , Carrera-Fernández María Victoria
Published: February 2021

Background: Within the context of the widespread use of technologies by adolescents, the objectives of this study were to identify the perpetrators of intimate partner cyberstalking (IPCS) in adolescents; to analyze the relationship between IPCS and gender, age, sexting behaviors, pornography consumption, and ambivalent sexism; and to investigate the influence of the study variables as predictors of IPCS and determine their moderating role. Methods: Participants were 993 Spanish students of Secondary Education, 535 girls and 458 boys with mean age 15.75 (SD = 1.47). Of the total sample, 70.3% (n = 696) had or had had a partner. Results: Boys perform more sexting, consume more pornographic content, and have more hostile and benevolent sexist attitudes than girls. However, girls perpetrate more IPCS than boys. The results of the hierarchical multiple regression indicate that hostile sexism is a predictor of IPCS, as well as the combined effect of Gender × Pornography and Benevolent Sexism × Sexting. Conclusions: it is essential to implement sexual affective education programs in schools in which Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) are incorporated so that boys and girls can experience their relationships, both offline and online, in an egalitarian and violence-free way.
Prevalence and Determinants of Immediate and Long-Term PTSD Consequences of Coronavirus-Related (CoV-1 and CoV-2) Pandemics among Healthcare Professionals: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: al Falasi Buthaina , al Mazrouei Mouza , al Ali Mai , al Dhamani Maithah , al Ali Aisha , al Kindi Mariam , Dalkilinc Murat , al Qubaisi Mai , Campos Luciana Aparecida , al Tunaiji Hashel , Baltatu Ovidiu Constantin
Published: February 2021

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic continues to rise. In order to control the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare professionals have been subjected to increased exposure to work stress. In this systematic review, we aimed at investigating the prevalence and determinants of immediate and long-term post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) effects on healthcare professionals by the COVID-19 (SARS CoV-2) and SARS-2003 (SARS CoV-1) pandemics. Methods: This systematic review was conducted according to the recommendations of the Protocols for Systemic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) statement. Only studies reporting the prevalence of PTSD (frequency, percentage) and related risk factors (adjusted odds ratio (OR)) in healthcare professionals (HCPs) during the SARS CoV-2 and SARS CoV-1 pandemics were included. The following databases were screened: Medline, Embase, PsychINFO, and Health Psychosocial Instrument (HaPI). Results: Six of eight studies reported PTSD symptoms among healthcare professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic in China (three), Singapore (one), India (one), and the United States of America (USA) (two), while two studies reported symptoms during the SARS-2003 pandemic in China (one) and Singapore (one). Sample sizes ranged from 263 to 5062 with a combined total of 10,074 participants. All of the studies self-reported the level of exposure to coronaviruses (CoV-1 and CoV-2) and severity of PTSD. Seven studies reported the prevalence of immediate PTSD and determinants, while one study reported delayed-onset PTSD (3 years after CoV-1 pandemic). Determinants of immediate PTSD were reported for the CoV-2 pandemic, while those for long-term PTSD were reported for the CoV-1 pandemic. Conclusions: A comprehensive understanding of the prevalence and determinants of immediate or long-term pandemic PTSD for healthcare workers can improve prevention, diagnosis, and management. Rigorous research measuring the prevalence of PTSD and its associated risk factors (adjusted OR) for the CoV-2 pandemic are envisaged. Although strategies to resolve immediate PTSD are key, long-term PTSD must not be overlooked.
Respiratory Burst and TNF-α Receptor Expression of Neutrophils after Sepsis and Severe Injury-Induced Inflammation in Children
Authors: Sikora Janusz P. , Sobczak Jarosław , Zawadzki Dariusz , Przewratil Przemysław , Wysocka Anna , Burzyńska Monika
Published: February 2021

Systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) is defined as the systemic host response to infection or a non-infectious factor. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the involvement of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in severe inflammation and to assess the discrimination strength of the neutrophil BURSTTEST assay regarding its etiology in three groups of patients (sepsis, burns, and bone fractures) who met the SIRS criteria. The neutrophil activation (respiratory burst of granulocytes as well as p55 and p75 tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) receptor expression) was evaluated twice using flow cytometry, and the results were compared with healthy controls and among SIRS subjects. A decreased oxygen metabolism in neutrophils after E.coli stimulation and increased TNF-α receptor expression were found in septic and burned patients on admission, while ROS production augmented and TNF-α receptor expression diminished with the applied therapy. The significant differences in neutrophil respiratory burst intensity among septic and burned patients and those with sepsis and bone fractures were found (however, there were not any such differences between patients with thermal and mechanical injuries). This study indicates that the neutrophil BURSTTEST evaluation might be a clinically reliable marker for differentiating the SIRS etiology.
Gender Patterns in Mobbing Victims: Differences in Negative Act Perceptions, MMPI Personality Profile, Perceived Quality of Life, and Suicide Risk
Authors: Alfano Vincenzo , Ramaci Tiziana , Landolfi Alfonso , Lo Presti Alessandro , Barattucci Massimiliano
Published: February 2021

With the aim of investigating the impact of gender-related personality characteristics on bullying perceptions and outcomes, a correlational study was designed with 114 individuals who had used a public health service aimed at harassed workers identifying themselves as victims of mobbing in central Italy. The study was conducted using the following questionnaires: the Negative Acts Questionnaire (NAQ), a measure of workplace bullying; the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI-2), used to provide information to measure personality dimensions for workplace screening; the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL-BRIEF) which assesses four domains assumed to represent the quality of life construct; and the Suicidal Potential Scale (SPS) used to assess suicidal ideation. MMPI-2 profile results show a significant elevation of specific MMPI scales and gender differences. When compared to women, men who complain of being the victims of negative actions at work are more depressed, paranoid, introverted, anxious, and obsessive, and have higher anger levels and lower self-esteem. Many different MMPI-2 scales are also predictors of quality of life (QoL) perceptions and suicidal tendencies. The NAQ total score, however, predicts quality of life and suicide risk. Perceptions of negative actions have a serious effect on life outcomes. The results provide useful indications on personality profiles and gender differences, which can be understood as antecedents in the perception of negative events, and factors capable of modulating the effect of perceived bullying actions on outcomes.
Deep Learning Feature Extraction Approach for Hematopoietic Cancer Subtype Classification
Authors: Park Kwang Ho , Batbaatar Erdenebileg , Piao Yongjun , Theera-Umpon Nipon , Ryu Keun Ho
Published: February 2021

Hematopoietic cancer is a malignant transformation in immune system cells. Hematopoietic cancer is characterized by the cells that are expressed, so it is usually difficult to distinguish its heterogeneities in the hematopoiesis process. Traditional approaches for cancer subtyping use statistical techniques. Furthermore, due to the overfitting problem of small samples, in case of a minor cancer, it does not have enough sample material for building a classification model. Therefore, we propose not only to build a classification model for five major subtypes using two kinds of losses, namely reconstruction loss and classification loss, but also to extract suitable features using a deep autoencoder. Furthermore, for considering the data imbalance problem, we apply an oversampling algorithm, the synthetic minority oversampling technique (SMOTE). For validation of our proposed autoencoder-based feature extraction approach for hematopoietic cancer subtype classification, we compared other traditional feature selection algorithms (principal component analysis, non-negative matrix factorization) and classification algorithms with the SMOTE oversampling approach. Additionally, we used the Shapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) interpretation technique in our model to explain the important gene/protein for hematopoietic cancer subtype classification. Furthermore, we compared five widely used classification algorithms, including logistic regression, random forest, k-nearest neighbor, artificial neural network and support vector machine. The results of autoencoder-based feature extraction approaches showed good performance, and the best result was the SMOTE oversampling-applied support vector machine algorithm consider both focal loss and reconstruction loss as the loss function for autoencoder (AE) feature selection approach, which produced 97.01% accuracy, 92.60% recall, 99.52% specificity, 93.54% F1-measure, 97.87% G-mean and 95.46% index of balanced accuracy as subtype classification performance measures.
Analysis of the Cause of Household Carbon Lock-In for Chinese Urban Households
Authors: Mi Lingyun , Sun Yuhuan , Qiao Lijie , Jia Tianwen , Yang Yang , Lv Tao
Published: February 2021

Household energy conservation is an important contributor to achieve the carbon emission reduction target. However, the actual energy-saving effect of Chinese households is under expectation. One reason for this is because household energy consumption is locked in at a certain level, which has become an obstacle to household carbon emission reduction. In order to reduce this obstacle, this study explored the cause of household carbon lock-in based on grounded theory, targeting newly furnished households. A theoretical model was developed to reveal the formation mechanism of carbon lock-in effect in the purchasing process of household energy-using appliances. NVivo 12 software was used to analyze the decoration diaries of 616 sample households, and the results showed that (1) the direct antecedent of the household carbon lock-in effect was the lock-in of purchasing behavior, and the household carbon lock-in effect was mainly exhibited in the consumption path dependence (of energy-using appliances) and the solidification of energy structure; (2) the willingness to purchase household appliances was the direct antecedent of purchasing behavioral lock-in, and the cost had a moderating effect on the transformation from purchase willingness to behavioral lock-in; and (3) in the process of purchasing household appliances, reference groups, value perception, and ecological awareness can promote purchasing behavioral lock-in by affecting willingness of purchase. Suggestions to promote unlocking of household carbon were also proposed.
Modeling of the German Wind Power Production with High Spatiotemporal Resolution
Authors: Lehneis Reinhold , Manske David , Thrän Daniela
Published: February 2021

Wind power has risen continuously over the last 20 years and covered almost 25% of the total German power provision in 2019. To investigate the effects and challenges of increasing wind power on energy systems, spatiotemporally disaggregated data on the electricity production from wind turbines are often required. The lack of freely accessible feed-in time series from onshore turbines, e.g., due to data protection regulations, makes it necessary to determine the power generation for a certain region and period with the help of numerical simulations using publicly available plant and weather data. For this, a new approach is used for the wind power model which utilizes a sixth-order polynomial for the specific power curve of a turbine. After model validation with measured data from a single wind turbine, the simulations are carried out for an ensemble of 25,835 onshore turbines to determine the German wind power production for 2016. The resulting hourly resolved data are aggregated into a time series with daily resolution and compared with measured feed-in data of entire Germany which show a high degree of agreement. Such electricity generation data from onshore turbines can be applied to optimize and monitor renewable power systems on various spatiotemporal scales.
The Impact of Hanseniaspora vineae Fermentation and Ageing on Lees on the Terpenic Aromatic Profile of White Wines of the Albillo Variety
Authors: Del Fresno Juan Manuel , Escott Carlos , Loira Iris , Carrau Francisco , Cuerda Rafael , Schneider Rémi , Bañuelos María Antonia , González Carmen , Suárez-Lepe José Antonio , Morata Antonio
Published: February 2021

Hanseniaspora vineae is a non-Saccharomyces yeast that has a powerful impact on the sensory profile of wines. Its effect on the aromatic profile of non-aromatic grape varieties, such as Albillo Mayor (Vitis vinifera, L), during vinification is a useful biotechnology to improve sensory complexity. Fermentation in steel barrels using Hanseniaspora vineae and sequential inoculation with Saccharomyces cerevisiae have been used to study the formation of terpenes and cell lysis in the production of Albillo white wines. The GC-MS analysis profile shows a significant effect of H. vineae fermentation on the contents of terpenes (≈×3), mainly in linalool (>×3), β-citronellol (>×4), geraniol (>×2) and α-terpineol (≈×2). The contents of several polyoxygenated terpenes and some volatile phenols with a spicy aroma were increased during fermentation. In summary, Hanseniaspora vineae releases a large number of cell wall polysaccharides during fermentation that affect wine palatability and structure. Hanseniaspora vineae is a powerful bio-tool to enhance the fruitiness, floral notes and freshness in non-aromatic white varieties.
A Comprehensive miRNome Analysis of Macrophages Isolated from db/db Mice and Selected miRNAs Involved in Metabolic Syndrome-Associated Cardiac Remodeling
Authors: Niderla-Bielińska Justyna , Ścieżyńska Aneta , Moskalik Aneta , Jankowska-Steifer Ewa , Bartkowiak Krzysztof , Bartkowiak Mateusz , Kiernozek Ewelina , Podgórska Anna , Ciszek Bogdan , Majchrzak Barbara , Ratajska Anna
Published: February 2021

Cardiac macrophages are known from various activities, therefore we presume that microRNAs (miRNAs) produced or released by macrophages in cardiac tissue have impact on myocardial remodeling in individuals with metabolic syndrome (MetS). We aim to assess the cardiac macrophage miRNA profile by selecting those miRNA molecules that potentially exhibit regulatory functions in MetS-related cardiac remodeling. Cardiac tissue macrophages from control and db/db mice (an animal model of MetS) were counted and sorted with flow cytometry, which yielded two populations: CD45+CD11b+CD64+Ly6Chi and CD45+CD11b+CD64+Ly6Clow. Total RNA was then isolated, and miRNA expression profiles were evaluated with Next Generation Sequencing. We successfully sequenced 1400 miRNAs in both macrophage populations: CD45+CD11b+CD64+Ly6Chi and CD45+CD11b+CD64+Ly6Clow. Among the 1400 miRNAs, about 150 showed different expression levels in control and db/db mice and between these two subpopulations. At least 15 miRNAs are possibly associated with MetS pathology in cardiac tissue due to direct or indirect regulation of the expression of miRNAs for proteins involved in angiogenesis, fibrosis, or inflammation. In this paper, for the first time we describe the miRNA transcription profile in two distinct macrophage populations in MetS-affected cardiac tissue. Although the results are preliminary, the presented data provide a foundation for further studies on intercellular cross-talk/molecular mechanism(s) involved in the regulation of MetS-related cardiac remodeling.
Ameliorating Fibrotic Phenotypes of Keloid Dermal Fibroblasts through an Epidermal Growth Factor-Mediated Extracellular Matrix Remodeling
Authors: Kim Hyunbum , Anggradita Laurensia Danis , Lee Sun-Jae , Hur Sung Sik , Bae Joonsuk , Hwang Nathaniel Suk-Yeon , Nam Seung Min , Hwang Yongsung
Published: February 2021

Keloid and hypertrophic scars are skin fibrosis-associated disorders that exhibit an uncontrollable proliferation of fibroblasts and their subsequent contribution to the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) in the dermis. In this study, to elucidate the underlying mechanisms, we investigated the pivotal roles of epidermal growth factor (EGF) in modulating fibrotic phenotypes of keloid and hypertrophic dermal fibroblasts. Our initial findings revealed the molecular signatures of keloid dermal fibroblasts and showed the highest degree of skin fibrosis markers, ECM remodeling, anabolic collagen-cross-linking enzymes, such as lysyl oxidase (LOX) and four LOX-like family enzymes, migration ability, and cell–matrix traction force, at cell–matrix interfaces. Furthermore, we observed significant EGF-mediated downregulation of anabolic collagen-cross-linking enzymes, resulting in amelioration of fibrotic phenotypes and a decrease in cell motility measured according to the cell–matrix traction force. These findings offer insight into the important roles of EGF-mediated cell–matrix interactions at the cell–matrix interface, as well as ECM remodeling. Furthermore, the results suggest their contribution to the reduction of fibrotic phenotypes in keloid dermal fibroblasts, which could lead to the development of therapeutic modalities to prevent or reduce scar tissue formation.
Current Understanding of Role of Vesicular Transport in Salt Secretion by Salt Glands in Recretohalophytes
Authors: Lu Chaoxia , Yuan Fang , Guo Jianrong , Han Guoliang , Wang Chengfeng , Chen Min , Wang Baoshan
Published: February 2021

Soil salinization is a serious and growing problem around the world. Some plants, recognized as the recretohalophytes, can normally grow on saline–alkali soil without adverse effects by secreting excessive salt out of the body. The elucidation of the salt secretion process is of great significance for understanding the salt tolerance mechanism adopted by the recretohalophytes. Between the 1950s and the 1970s, three hypotheses, including the osmotic potential hypothesis, the transfer system similar to liquid flow in animals, and vesicle-mediated exocytosis, were proposed to explain the salt secretion process of plant salt glands. More recently, increasing evidence has indicated that vesicular transport plays vital roles in salt secretion of recretohalophytes. Here, we summarize recent findings, especially regarding the molecular evidence on the functional roles of vesicular trafficking in the salt secretion process of plant salt glands. A model of salt secretion in salt gland is also proposed.
How Are the Flower Structure and Nectar Composition of the Generalistic Orchid Neottia ovata Adapted to a Wide Range of Pollinators?
Authors: Brzosko Emilia , Bajguz Andrzej , Chmur Magdalena , Burzyńska Justyna , Jermakowicz Edyta , Mirski Paweł , Zieliński Piotr
Published: February 2021

Plant-pollinator interactions significantly influence reproductive success (RS) and drive the evolution of pollination syndromes. In the context of RS, mainly the role of flower morphology is touched. The importance of nectar properties is less studied, despite its significance in pollination effectiveness. Therefore, the aim of this study was to test selection on flower morphology and nectar chemistry in the generalistic orchid Neottia ovata. In 2019–2020, we measured three floral displays and six flower traits, pollinaria removal (PR), female reproductive success (FRS), and determined the soil properties. The sugars and amino acids (AAs) were analyzed using the HPLC method. Data were analyzed using multiple statistical methods (boxplots, ternary plot, one-way ANOVA, Kruskal-Wallis test, and PCA). Variation of flower structure and nectar chemistry and their weak correlation with RS confirms the generalistic character of N. ovata. In particular populations, different traits were under selection. PR was high and similar in all populations in both years, while FRS was lower and varied among populations. Nectar was dominated by glucose, fructose, and included 28 AAs (Ala and Glu have the highest content). Sugars and AAs influenced mainly FRS. Among soil parameters, carbon and carbon:nitrogen ratio seems to be the most important in shaping flower structure and nectar chemistry.
The Multifaceted Role of CMA in Glioma: Enemy or Ally?
Authors: Lo Dico Alessia , Martelli Cristina , Diceglie Cecilia , Ottobrini Luisa
Published: February 2021

Chaperone-mediated autophagy (CMA) is a catabolic pathway fundamental for cell homeostasis, by which specific damaged or non-essential proteins are degraded. CMA activity has three main levels of regulation. The first regulatory level is based on the targetability of specific proteins possessing a KFERQ-like domain, which can be recognized by specific chaperones and delivered to the lysosomes. Target protein unfolding and translocation into the lysosomal lumen constitutes the second level of CMA regulation and is based on the modulation of Lamp2A multimerization. Finally, the activity of some accessory proteins represents the third regulatory level of CMA activity. CMA’s role in oncology has not been fully clarified covering both pro-survival and pro-death roles in different contexts. Taking all this into account, it is possible to comprehend the actual complexity of both CMA regulation and the cellular consequences of its activity allowing it to be elected as a modulatory and not only catabolic machinery. In this review, the role covered by CMA in oncology is discussed with a focus on its relevance in glioma. Molecular correlates of CMA importance in glioma responsiveness to treatment are described to identify new early efficacy biomarkers and new therapeutic targets to overcome resistance.
Cold Atmospheric Plasma: A New Strategy Based Primarily on Oxidative Stress for Osteosarcoma Therapy
Authors: Mateu-Sanz Miguel , Tornín Juan , Ginebra Maria-Pau , Canal Cristina
Published: February 2021

Osteosarcoma is the most common primary bone tumor, and its first line of treatment presents a high failure rate. The 5-year survival for children and teenagers with osteosarcoma is 70% (if diagnosed before it has metastasized) or 20% (if spread at the time of diagnosis), stressing the need for novel therapies. Recently, cold atmospheric plasmas (ionized gases consisting of UV–Vis radiation, electromagnetic fields and a great variety of reactive species) and plasma-treated liquids have been shown to have the potential to selectively eliminate cancer cells in different tumors through an oxidative stress-dependent mechanism. In this work, we review the current state of the art in cold plasma therapy for osteosarcoma. Specifically, we emphasize the mechanisms unveiled thus far regarding the action of plasmas on osteosarcoma. Finally, we review current and potential future approaches, emphasizing the most critical challenges for the development of osteosarcoma therapies based on this emerging technique.
Comprehensive Profiling of Genomic and Transcriptomic Differences between Risk Groups of Lung Adenocarcinoma and Lung Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Zengin Talip , Önal-Süzek Tuğba
Published: February 2021

Lung cancer is the second most frequently diagnosed cancer type and responsible for the highest number of cancer deaths worldwide. Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) are subtypes of non-small-cell lung cancer which has the highest frequency of lung cancer cases. We aimed to analyze genomic and transcriptomic variations including simple nucleotide variations (SNVs), copy number variations (CNVs) and differential expressed genes (DEGs) in order to find key genes and pathways for diagnostic and prognostic prediction for lung adenocarcinoma and lung squamous cell carcinoma. We performed a univariate Cox model and then lasso-regularized Cox model with leave-one-out cross-validation using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) gene expression data in tumor samples. We generated 35- and 33-gene signatures for prognostic risk prediction based on the overall survival time of the patients with LUAD and LUSC, respectively. When we clustered patients into high- and low-risk groups, the survival analysis showed highly significant results with high prediction power for both training and test datasets. Then, we characterized the differences including significant SNVs, CNVs, DEGs, active subnetworks, and the pathways. We described the results for the risk groups and cancer subtypes separately to identify specific genomic alterations between both high-risk groups and cancer subtypes. Both LUAD and LUSC high-risk groups have more downregulated immune pathways and upregulated metabolic pathways. On the other hand, low-risk groups have both up- and downregulated genes on cancer-related pathways. Both LUAD and LUSC have important gene alterations such as CDKN2A and CDKN2B deletions with different frequencies. SOX2 amplification occurs in LUSC and PSMD4 amplification in LUAD. EGFR and KRAS mutations are mutually exclusive in LUAD samples. EGFR, MGA, SMARCA4, ATM, RBM10, and KDM5C genes are mutated only in LUAD but not in LUSC. CDKN2A, PTEN, and HRAS genes are mutated only in LUSC samples. The low-risk groups of both LUAD and LUSC tend to have a higher number of SNVs, CNVs, and DEGs. The signature genes and altered genes have the potential to be used as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for personalized oncology.
Frequent Itemset Mining and Multi-Layer Network-Based Analysis of RDF Databases
Authors: Honti Gergely , Abonyi János
Published: February 2021

Triplestores or resource description framework (RDF) stores are purpose-built databases used to organise, store and share data with context. Knowledge extraction from a large amount of interconnected data requires effective tools and methods to address the complexity and the underlying structure of semantic information. We propose a method that generates an interpretable multilayered network from an RDF database. The method utilises frequent itemset mining (FIM) of the subjects, predicates and the objects of the RDF data, and automatically extracts informative subsets of the database for the analysis. The results are used to form layers in an analysable multidimensional network. The methodology enables a consistent, transparent, multi-aspect-oriented knowledge extraction from the linked dataset. To demonstrate the usability and effectiveness of the methodology, we analyse how the science of sustainability and climate change are structured using the Microsoft Academic Knowledge Graph. In the case study, the FIM forms networks of disciplines to reveal the significant interdisciplinary science communities in sustainability and climate change. The constructed multilayer network then enables an analysis of the significant disciplines and interdisciplinary scientific areas. To demonstrate the proposed knowledge extraction process, we search for interdisciplinary science communities and then measure and rank their multidisciplinary effects. The analysis identifies discipline similarities, pinpointing the similarity between atmospheric science and meteorology as well as between geomorphology and oceanography. The results confirm that frequent itemset mining provides an informative sampled subsets of RDF databases which can be simultaneously analysed as layers of a multilayer network.
A History of Fluid Management—From “One Size Fits All” to an Individualized Fluid Therapy in Burn Resuscitation
Authors: Boehm Dorothee , Menke Henrik
Published: February 2021

Fluid management is a cornerstone in the treatment of burns and, thus, many different formulas were tested for their ability to match the fluid requirements for an adequate resuscitation. Thereof, the Parkland-Baxter formula, first introduced in 1968, is still widely used since then. Though using nearly the same formula to start off, the definition of normovolemia and how to determine the volume status of burn patients has changed dramatically over years. In first instance, the invention of the transpulmonary thermodilution (TTD) enabled an early goal directed fluid therapy with acceptable invasiveness. Furthermore, the introduction of point of care ultrasound (POCUS) has triggered more individualized schemes of fluid therapy. This article explores the historical developments in the field of burn resuscitation, presenting different options to determine the fluid requirements without missing the red flags for hyper- or hypovolemia. Furthermore, the increasing rate of co-morbidities in burn patients calls for a more sophisticated fluid management adjusting the fluid therapy to the actual necessities very closely. Therefore, formulas might be used as a starting point, but further fluid therapy should be adjusted to the actual need of every single patient. Taking the developments in the field of individualized therapies in intensive care in general into account, fluid management in burn resuscitation will also be individualized in the near future.
Application of Active-Screen Plasma Nitriding to an Austenitic Stainless Steel Small-Diameter Thin Pipe
Authors: Sumiya Kenzo , Tokuyama Shinkichi , Nishimoto Akio , Fukui Junichi , Nishiyama Atsushi
Published: February 2021

Low-temperature active-screen plasma nitriding (ASPN) was applied in this study to improve the bending rigidity and corrosion resistance of a small-diameter thin pipe composed of austenitic stainless steel (SUS 304). The inner and outer diameters of the pipe were ϕ0.3 and ϕ0.4 mm, respectively, and the pipe length was 50 mm. The jig temperature was measured using a thermocouple and was adopted as the nitriding temperature because measuring the temperature of a small-diameter pipe is difficult. The nitriding temperature was varied from 578 to 638 K to investigate the effect of temperature on the nitriding layer and mechanical property. The nitriding layer thickness increased with an increase in nitriding temperature, reaching 15 μm at 638 K. The existence of expanded austenite (S phase) in this nitriding layer was revealed using the X-ray diffraction pattern. Moreover, the surface hardness increased with the nitriding temperature and took a maximum value of 1100 HV above 598 K. The bending load increased with an increase in the nitriding temperature in relation to the thicker nitriding layer and increased surface hardness. The nitrided samples did not corrode near the center, and corrosion was noted only near the tip at high nitriding temperatures of 618 and 638 K in a salt spray test. These results indicated that the bending rigidity of the small-diameter thin pipe composed of austenitic stainless steel was successfully improved using low-temperature ASPN while ensuring corrosion resistance.