bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Efficacy of Flywheel Inertia Training to Enhance Hamstring Strength
Authors: O’ Brien Joey , Browne Declan , Earls Des , Lodge Clare
Published: January 2022

The purpose of this narrative review is to examine the efficacy of flywheel inertia training to increase hamstring strength. Hamstring strain injury is common in many sports, and baseline strength deficits have been associated with a higher risk of hamstring strain injury. As a result, strength and conditioning professionals actively seek additional techniques to improve hamstring strength with the aim of minimising the incidence of hamstring strain injury. One method of strength training gaining popularity in hamstring strength development is flywheel inertia training. In this review, we provide a brief overview of flywheel inertia training and its supposed adaptions. Next, we discuss important determinants of flywheel inertia training such as familiarisation, volume prescription, inertia load, technique and specific exercise used. Thereafter, we investigate its effects on hamstring strength, fascicle length and hamstring strain injury reduction. This article proposes that hamstring specific flywheel inertia training can be utilised for strength development, but due to the low number of studies and contrary evidence, more research is needed before a definite conclusion can be made. In addition, as with any training modality, careful consideration should be given to flywheel inertia training determinants. This review provides general recommendations of flywheel inertia training determinants that have value when integrating flywheel inertia training into a hamstring strengthening program.
Literature Review on Artificial Intelligence Methods for Glaucoma Screening, Segmentation, and Classification
Authors: Camara José , Neto Alexandre , Pires Ivan Miguel , Villasana María Vanessa , Zdravevski Eftim , Cunha António
Published: January 2022

Artificial intelligence techniques are now being applied in different medical solutions ranging from disease screening to activity recognition and computer-aided diagnosis. The combination of computer science methods and medical knowledge facilitates and improves the accuracy of the different processes and tools. Inspired by these advances, this paper performs a literature review focused on state-of-the-art glaucoma screening, segmentation, and classification based on images of the papilla and excavation using deep learning techniques. These techniques have been shown to have high sensitivity and specificity in glaucoma screening based on papilla and excavation images. The automatic segmentation of the contours of the optic disc and the excavation then allows the identification and assessment of the glaucomatous disease’s progression. As a result, we verified whether deep learning techniques may be helpful in performing accurate and low-cost measurements related to glaucoma, which may promote patient empowerment and help medical doctors better monitor patients.
Study on Buried Depth Protection Index of Submarine Cable Based on Physical and Numerical Modeling
Authors: Zheng Xinlong , Ge Yongqiang , Lu Zhifei , Cao Chen , Zhou Peng , Li Shiqiang , Chen Jiawang
Published: January 2022

The buried depth of submarine cables is very important to avoid damage on the cable from dropping and dragging anchors. This study focused on the actual engineering needs of submarine power cable protection and laying construction. In order to investigate the buried depth protection index of submarine cable, physical model tests, theory analysis, and numerical simulations were conducted in this study. The effects of the bottoming velocity, dropping energy, and anchor mass on the anchor penetration depth were analyzed and investigated. The analytical model based on the impact and drag mechanism is presented to analyze the forces and energy on the anchor. The accuracy and reliable of the model test results are verified by the theory analysis and numerical simulation, indicating that the buried depth protection index of the submarine cable in the research area is recommended to be 3 m. The research results can provide guidance for operation of the submarine cable laying machine and submarine cable protection.
Stochastic Air Quality Dispersion Model for Defining Queuing Ships Seaport Location
Authors: Garbatov Yordan , Georgiev Petar
Published: January 2022

This work develops a stochastic air quality dispersion to predict the pollution concentration originating from ships queuing in a seaport. The Gaussian dispersion model for five ships operating in the Black Sea queuing in the front of the port of Varna as sources of gas emission of NOx, SOx and PM10 is used to define the air pollution concentration at receptors (crowded areas of the port and other reference points) and consequently the distance to the seaport queuing location. Uncertainties, which are inherent in the input data and mathematical model, are accounted for to estimate the propagating uncertainties of the emission concentration at the receptors accounting for the wind speed, horizontal and vertical dispersion parameters as a function of the geographical location of the emission sources (ships), effective emission height and weather conditions. The estimated uncertainties of the air quality prediction are of significant importance for the decision-making on the regulatory purposes, and the probability of exceeding the threshold limits needs to be quantified. The most expected value and the probability of exceeding the acceptable limits of pollution concentration are defined by employing the first-order reliability method. The target reliability level is defined as the failure cause and mode used for identifying the safety calibration factors that may be employed for defining the most suitable location of the ship queuing seaport. Several conclusions about the applicability of the developed stochastic model and its use for regulatory purposes are also provided.
Hybrid Nanoparticles as Theranostics Platforms for Glioblastoma Treatment: Phototherapeutic and X-ray Phase Contrast Tomography Investigations
Authors: Ricciardi Loredana , Chatterjee Sharmistha , Palermo Giovanna , Szerb Elisabeta I. , Sanna Alessia , Palermo Francesca , Pieroni Nicola , Fratini Michela , Bartolino Roberto , Cedola Alessia , La Deda Massimo , Strangi Giuseppe
Published: January 2022

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is one of the deadliest and most aggressive cancers, remarkably resilient to current therapeutic treatments. Here, we report preliminary in vivo studies of GBM treatments based on photo-nanotherapeutics to activate synergistic killing mechanisms. Core-shell nanoparticles have been weaponized by combining photophysical properties of a new generation PDT agent (Ir(III) complex) with the thermoplasmonic effects of resonant gold nanospheres. In order to investigate the damages induced in GBM treated with these photoactivable nanosystems, we employed X-ray phase-contrast tomography (XPCT). This high-resolution three-dimensional imaging technique highlighted a vast devascularization process by micro-vessels disruption, which is indicative of tumor elimination without relapse.
Exploring the Relationships between Macrofungi Diversity and Major Environmental Factors in Wunvfeng National Forest Park in Northeast China
Authors: Tuo Yonglan , Rong Na , Hu Jiajun , Zhao Guiping , Wang Yang , Zhang Zhenhao , Qi Zhenxiang , Li Yu , Zhang Bo
Published: January 2022

In this paper, we analyze the macrofungi communities of five forest types in Wunvfeng National Forest Park (Jilin, China) by collecting fruiting bodies from 2019–2021. Each forest type had three repeats and covered the main habitats of macrofungi. In addition, we evaluate selected environmental variables and macrofungi communities to relate species composition to potential environmental factors. We collected 1235 specimens belonging to 283 species, 116 genera, and 62 families. We found that Amanitaceae, Boletaceae, Russulaceae, and Tricholomataceae were the most diverse family; further, Amanita, Cortinarius, Lactarius, Russula, and Tricholoma were the dominant genera in the area. The macrofungi diversity showed increasing trends from Pinus koraiensis Siebold et Zuccarini forests to Quercus mongolica Fischer ex Ledebour forests. The cumulative species richness was as follows: Q. mongolica forest A > broadleaf mixed forest B > Q. mongolica, P. koraiensis mix forest D (Q. mongolica was the dominant species) > Q. mongolica and P. koraiensis mix forest C (P. koraiensis was the dominant species) > P. koraiensis forest (E). Ectomycorrhizal fungi were the dominant functional group; they were mainly in forest type A and were influenced by soil moisture content and Q. mongolica content (p < 0.05). The wood-rotting fungus showed richer species diversity than other forest types in broadleaf forests A and B. Overall, we concluded that most fungal communities preferred forest types with a relatively high Q. mongolica content. Therefore, the deliberate protection of Q. mongolica forests proves to be a better strategy for maintaining fungal diversity in Wunvfeng National Forest Park.
Research Progress and Conceptual Insights on Drought Impacts and Responses among Smallholder Farmers in South Africa: A Review
Authors: Ruwanza Sheunesu , Thondhlana Gladman , Falayi Menelisi
Published: January 2022

Drought is a natural phenomenon which can cause widespread socio-economic and environmental impacts. Recent predictions suggest that drought frequency and intensity will increase in Southern Africa; therefore, there is a need for more scientific information on drought impacts and responses by vulnerable groups such as smallholder farmers. This scoping review examines the current state of research and conceptual insights on the impacts of drought on and responses by smallholder farmers in rural and urban settings in South Africa. We used three bibliographic databases (Scopus, Web of Science, and EBSCOHost) to search for peer-reviewed literature published on South Africa. In total, 18 articles were reviewed, and information on drought impacts and responses among smallholder farmers was analysed and synthesised. Although most of the reviewed papers identified several socio-economic (e.g., loss of livestock, income, and employment) and environmental (e.g., loss of grazing land and vegetation) impacts of drought, the identified impacts were rarely quantified, and there is a lack of analytical depth of these impacts. Smallholder farmers in South Africa implement several drought responses, and these were categorised based on (i) changes in local practices and lifestyles e.g., practising conservation agriculture, (ii) structural measures e.g., government relief programmes, and (iii) technical interventions e.g., rain harvesting. None of the reviewed papers reported on the impacts of and responses to drought on smallholder farmers in urban settings. Overall, the review noted that the literature on drought in South Africa lacks detailed quantification and analysis of drought impacts and responses, the urban drought context is poorly understood, and there is a lack of clarity on the distinction between adaptation and mitigation strategies. Improving our understanding of drought impacts across a rural-urban gradient is important if responses are to effectively reduce smallholder farmer drought vulnerability.
Confronting the Issue of Invasive Native Tree Species Due to Land Use Change in the Eastern United States
Authors: Hanberry Brice B.
Published: January 2022

The increased abundance of historically rare native tree species is symptomatic of land-use change, which causes ecosystem regime shifts. I tested for an association between mean agricultural area, a proxy for land-use change, and native tree species. I first modeled agricultural area during the years 1850 to 1997 and the historical and current percent composition of tree genera, along with the dissimilarity and difference between the historical and current composition, for the northern part of the eastern U.S. I then modeled agricultural area and current genera and species for the eastern U.S. and regionally. For the northeast, agricultural area was most associated (R2 of 78%) with the current percentage of elms and a diverse, uncommon “other” genera. For the eastern U.S., Ulmus, Juglans, Prunus, boxelder (Acer negundo), black cherry (Prunus serotina), and hackberry (Celtis occidentalis) best predicted agricultural area (R2 of 66%). Regionally, two elm and ash species, black walnut (Juglans nigra), mockernut hickory (Carya tomentosa), red maple (Acer rubrum), sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua), and American sycamore (Platanus occidentalis) increased with agricultural area. Increases in historically rare and diverse species associated with agricultural area represent an overall pattern of invasive native tree species that have replaced historical ecosystems after land-use change disrupted historical vegetation and disturbance regimes.
Vegetation Dynamics Due to Urbanization in the Coastal Cities along the Maritime Silk Road
Authors: Yan Min , Fan Shunxiang , Zhang Li , Mahmood Riffat , Chen Bowei , Dong Yuqi
Published: January 2022

Substantial research indicates the effects of urbanization on vegetation cover; however, a view of this scenario from a regional scale is absent. Nowadays, coastal cities have become the new engine for the development of countries in coastal areas. To capture the effects of rapid urbanization on vegetation dynamics, 35 coastal cities along the Maritime Silk Road (MSR) were selected to study the related research using quantitative tools. We calculated spatiotemporal trends of vegetation dynamics along an urban development intensity (UDI) gradient using the MODIS-enhanced vegetation index (EVI) during the period of 2000–2015. We found a significant reduction (p < 0.05) in the EVI in the core area against that in the rural area (ΔEVI) of 14 cities and an insignificant change in vegetation in the peri-urban areas or urban outskirts. EVI decreased significantly along the UDI gradients in 12 coastal cities with a linear pattern and in seven coastal cities with a concave pattern; only Bangkok exhibited a convex pattern. The nonlinear pattern between the EVI and UDI reflected the fact that vegetation dynamics were affected by complicated factors, including climate change and human interventions, over a long period of time. In conclusion, our work provided a scientific reference for the sustainable development of coastal cities along the MSR; further work is necessary to explore the mechanic details of the positive and negative influences of urban factors and related policies on vegetation conditions.
Spatial Responses of Ecosystem Service Value during the Development of Urban Agglomerations
Authors: Yu Huisheng , Yang Jun , Sun Dongqi , Li Tong , Liu Yanjun
Published: January 2022

This study analyzed data from 1995, 2005, and 2015 using mathematical calculations, spatial analysis, and a geographically weighted regression model. The results showed that from 1995 to 2015, the comprehensive regional development degree (RDD) of urban agglomeration in the middle of Jilin Province increased overall, with the average RDD increasing from 0.250 in 1995 to 0.323 in 2015. Especially in Changchun, a sub-provincial city, the RDD increased by nearly one-third, and the gap between this and other cities has been increasing. However, the ecosystem service value (ESV) decreased overall, with the average ESV decreasing from 108.3 in 1995 to 105.4 in 2015, and showed a strong spatial correlation. The maximum quantile in southeast–northwest direction was 1.712, with good homogeneity. The spatial influence coefficient of the RDD on the ESV showed a trend from positive to negative in the northwest–southeast direction. This value decreased continuously while the negative agglomeration area was gradually expanding, corresponding to the stressful effects of the RDD on ESV. The results of this study can provide a reference for urban planning and development as well as encourage reasonable regional spatial planning to ensure the sustainable development of urban agglomerations.
Will Good Service Quality Promote Real Estate Value? Evidence from Beijing, China
Authors: Liu Fangyuan , Chen Kaili , Zhang Tianzheng , Zhang Yingjie , Song Yan
Published: January 2022

In the field of land use and urban management, real estate value-added issues have attracted much attention. Previous studies mainly focused on the premium of basic public services (such as infrastructure) in real estate value. As an important part of urban management, the contribution of property service is often underestimated. Few empirical studies mentioned the potential contribution of property service quality. Based on this, this paper aims to confirm and quantitatively evaluate the premium of good service quality in real estate value utilizing 155,845 samples of housing resale transactions in Beijing from 2012 to 2019. Furthermore, we also explore the dynamics and heterogeneity of the above premium. Our results show the following: Firstly, good service quality does show premium in real estate value, and the higher the service quality, the greater the premium in housing price. Secondly, this premium keeps increasing during our study period. With urbanization and rising incomes of residents, property service is increasingly important. Thirdly, the contribution of service quality to real estate value is greater when serviced houses have a higher price or larger area, are relatively newer, or further away from the city center. The findings of this current research not only deepen our understanding of service quality’s premium in real estate value, but also provide implications for urban management.
A Rare STXBP2 Mutation in Severe COVID-19 and Secondary Cytokine Storm Syndrome
Authors: Reiff Daniel D. , Zhang Mingce , Smitherman Emily A. , Mannion Melissa L. , Stoll Matthew L. , Weiser Peter , Cron Randy Q.
Published: January 2022

Background: Primary (familial) hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (pHLH) is a potentially lethal syndrome of infancy, caused by genetic defects in natural killer (NK) cell and CD8 T cell cytotoxicity, leading to hyperinflammation, elevated cytokine levels, and a disorganized immune response resulting in multi-organ system failure and frequently death. Secondary HLH (sHLH) can be triggered in the setting of malignances, diseases of chronic immune system activation, or by infectious etiologies. While pHLH is usually a result of homozygous gene mutations, monoallelic hypomorphic and dominant-negative mutations in pHLH genes have been implicated in sHLH. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been an omnipresent viral infection since its arrival, and severe cases can present with cytokine storm and have clinical features and laboratory findings consistent with sHLH. Herein, we report an adolescent with severe COVID-19, decreased NK cell function, and features of sHLH. Her genetic evaluation identified a monoallelic missense mutation in the pHLH gene STXBP2, and NK cell assays of her blood showed decreased cytolysis and degranulation ex vivo. Methods: Patient data was extracted through an electronic medical record review. Using a lentiviral approach, the patient’s STXBP2 mutation and wild-type (WT) STXBP2 were separately transduced into the NK-92 human NK cell line. The WT and mutant STXBP2 transduced NK-92 cells were stimulated with NK-sensitive K562 erythroleukemia target cells in vitro, and NK cell degranulation and cytolysis were measured via CD107a expression and Live/Dead near-IR dye, respectively. Results: Compared to WT STXBP2, the patient’s STXBP2 mutation caused significantly decreased NK cell cytolysis and associated degranulation in vitro. Conclusion: These findings add weight to the hypothesis that some severe cases of COVID-19 may be accompanied by sHLH and hyperinflammation, especially in the setting of heterozygous pHLH genetic mutations. This has implications both diagnostically and therapeutically for severe COVID-19.
Disentangling the Taxonomic Status of Caprella penantis sensu stricto (Amphipoda: Caprellidae) Using an Integrative Approach
Authors: Cabezas M. Pilar , Guerra-García José M. , Santos António M.
Published: January 2022

Despite its importance in intertidal and shallow-water marine ecosystems, Caprella penantis continues to be one of the most taxonomically challenging amphipods in the world. A recent molecular study focusing on C. penantis sensu stricto pointed out the existence of three highly divergent lineages, indicating the possible existence of a process of ongoing speciation and, thus, casting doubt on the taxonomic status of this species. In the present study, we used an integrative approach to continue to shed light on the taxonomy and distribution of this caprellid. To this end, we combined morphological and genetic data (COI and 18S) and included, for the first time, populations from its type locality. Our analyses provide strong evidence of the existence of potentially three distinct species, genetically and geographically restricted, within C. penantis sensu stricto, with the distribution of the true C. penantis sensu stricto restricted to the UK (type locality), the northern coast of the Iberian Peninsula, and the Azores. Results show the co-occurrence of two of these species in a locality of northern Portugal and indicate the existence of distinct evolutionary and diversification patterns along the eastern Atlantic region. Overall, our study highlights the use of an integrative approach to properly assess species boundaries and unravel hidden biodiversity in amphipods.
Reliable and Scalable SARS-CoV-2 qPCR Testing at a High Sample Throughput: Lessons Learned from the Belgian Initiative
Authors: Van Vooren Steven , Grayson James , Van Ranst Marc , Dequeker Elisabeth , Laenen Lies , Janssen Reile , Gillet Laurent , Bureau Fabrice , Coppieters Wouter , Devos Nathalie , Hengchen Benjamin , Wattiau Pierre , Méhauden Sibylle , Verlinden Yvan , Van Baelen Kurt , Pattery Theresa , Valentin Jean-Pierre , Janssen Kris , Geraerts Martine , Smeraglia John , Hellemans Jan , Wytynck Pieter , Mestdagh Pieter , Besbrugge Nienke , Höfer René , Nollet Friedel , Vandesompele Jo , De Smet Pieter , Lebon John , Vandewynckele Emmanuel , Verstrepen Steven , Uten Wouter , Capron Arnaud , Malonne Hugues , Poels Jeroen , André Emmanuel
Published: January 2022

We present our approach to rapidly establishing a standardized, multi-site, nation-wide COVID-19 screening program in Belgium. Under auspices of a federal government Task Force responsible for upscaling the country’s testing capacity, we were able to set up a national testing initiative with readily available resources, putting in place a robust, validated, high-throughput, and decentralized qPCR molecular testing platform with embedded proficiency testing. We demonstrate how during an acute scarcity of equipment, kits, reagents, personnel, protective equipment, and sterile plastic supplies, we introduced an approach to rapidly build a reliable, validated, high-volume, high-confidence workflow based on heterogeneous instrumentation and diverse assays, assay components, and protocols. The workflow was set up with continuous quality control monitoring, tied together through a clinical-grade information management platform for automated data analysis, real-time result reporting across different participating sites, qc monitoring, and making result data available to the requesting physician and the patient. In this overview, we address challenges in optimizing high-throughput cross-laboratory workflows with minimal manual intervention through software, instrument and assay validation and standardization, and a process for harmonized result reporting and nation-level infection statistics monitoring across the disparate testing methodologies and workflows, necessitated by a rapid scale-up as a response to the pandemic.
Investigation of a Tetrathiafulvalene-Based Fe2+ Thermal Spin Crossover Assembled on Gold Surface
Authors: Giaconi Niccolò , Sorrentino Andrea Luigi , Poggini Lorenzo , Serrano Giulia , Cucinotta Giuseppe , Otero Edwige , Longo Danilo , Douib Haiet , Pointillart Fabrice , Caneschi Andrea , Sessoli Roberta , Mannini Matteo
Published: January 2022

A thick film and a monolayer of tetrathiafulvalene-based Fe2+ spin-crossover complex have been deposited by solution on a Au (111) substrate, attempting both self-assembling monolayer protocol and a simpler drop-casting procedure. The thermally induced spin transition has been investigated using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS). Temperature-dependent investigations demonstrated the retention of the switching behavior between the two spin states in thick molecular films obtained by drop-casting, while in the monolayer sample, the loss of the spin-crossover properties appears as a possible consequence of the strong interaction between the sulfur atoms of the ligand and the gold substrate.
Classification Comparison of Machine Learning Algorithms Using Two Independent CAD Datasets
Authors: Yuvalı Meliz , Yaman Belma , Tosun Özgür
Published: January 2022

In the last few decades, statistical methods and machine learning (ML) algorithms have become efficient in medical decision-making. Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a common type of cardiovascular disease that causes many deaths each year. In this study, two CAD datasets from different countries (TRNC and Iran) are tested to understand the classification efficiency of different supervised machine learning algorithms. The Z-Alizadeh Sani dataset contained 303 individuals (216 patient, 87 control), while the Near East University (NEU) Hospital dataset contained 475 individuals (305 patients, 170 control). This study was conducted in three stages: (1) Each dataset, as well as their merged version, was subject to review separately with a random sampling method to obtain train-test subsets. (2) The NEU Hospital dataset was assigned as the training data, while the Z-Alizadeh Sani dataset was the test data. (3) The Z-Alizadeh Sani dataset was assigned as the training data, while the NEU hospital dataset was the test data. Among all ML algorithms, the Random Forest showed successful results for its classification performance at each stage. The least successful ML method was kNN which underperformed at all pitches. Other methods, including logistic regression, have varying classification performances at every step.
Algorithm for Two Generalized Nonexpansive Mappings in Uniformly Convex Spaces
Authors: Usurelu Gabriela Ioana , Turcanu Teodor , Postolache Mihai
Published: January 2022

In this paper, we study the common fixed-point problem for a pair of García-Falset mapping and (α,β)-generalized hybrid mapping in uniformly convex Banach spaces. For this purpose, we construct a modified three-step iteration by properly including together these two types of mappings into its formula. Under this modified iteration, a necessary and sufficient condition for the existence of a common fixed point as well as weak and strong convergence outcomes are phrased under some additional conditions.
3D Modelling with C2 Continuous PDE Surface Patches
Authors: Fu Haibin , Bian Shaojun , Li Ouwen , Macey Jon , Iglesias Andres , Chaudhry Ehtzaz , You Lihua , Zhang Jian Jun
Published: January 2022

In this paper, we present a new modelling method to create 3D models. First, characteristic cross section curves are generated and approximated by generalized elliptic curves. Then, a vector-valued sixth-order partial differential equation is proposed, and its closed form solution is derived to create PDE surface patches from cross section curves where two adjacent PDE-surface patches are automatically stitched together. With the approach presented in this paper, C2 continuity between adjacent surface patches is well-maintained. Since surface creation of the model is transformed into the generation of cross sectional curves and few undetermined constants are required to describe cross sectional curves accurately, the proposed approach can save manual operations, reduce information storage, and generate 3D models quickly.
Parallel Direct and Iterative Methods for Solving the Time-Fractional Diffusion Equation on Multicore Processors
Authors: Sultanov Murat A. , Akimova Elena N. , Misilov Vladimir E. , Nurlanuly Yerkebulan
Published: January 2022

The work is devoted to developing the parallel algorithms for solving the initial boundary problem for the time-fractional diffusion equation. After applying the finite-difference scheme to approximate the basis equation, the problem is reduced to solving a system of linear algebraic equations for each subsequent time level. The developed parallel algorithms are based on the Thomas algorithm, parallel sweep algorithm, and accelerated over-relaxation method for solving this system. Stability of the approximation scheme is established. The parallel implementations are developed for the multicore CPU using the OpenMP technology. The numerical experiments are performed to compare these methods and to study the performance of parallel implementations. The parallel sweep method shows the lowest computing time.
Towards Distributed Lexicographically Fair Resource Allocation with an Indivisible Constraint
Authors: Li Chuanyou , Wan Tianwei , Han Junmei , Jiang Wei
Published: January 2022

In the cloud computing and big data era, data analysis jobs are usually executed over geo-distributed data centers to make use of data locality. When there are not enough resources to fully meet the demands of all the jobs, allocating resources fairly becomes critical. Meanwhile, it is worth noting that in many practical scenarios, resources waiting to be allocated are not infinitely divisible. In this paper, we focus on fair resource allocation for distributed job execution over multiple sites, where resources allocated each time have a minimum requirement. Aiming at the problem, we propose a novel scheme named Distributed Lexicographical Fairness (DLF) targeting to well specify the meaning of fairness in the new scenario considered. To well study DLF, we follow a common research approach that first analyzes its economic properties and then proposes algorithms to output concrete DLF allocations. In our study, we leverage a creative idea that transforms DLF equivalently to a special max flow problem in the integral field. The transformation facilitates our study in that by generalizing basic properties of DLF from the view of network flow, we prove that DLF satisfies Pareto efficiency, envy-freeness, strategy-proofness, relaxed sharing incentive and 12-maximin share. After that, we propose two algorithms. One is a basic algorithm that stimulates a water-filling process. However, our analysis shows that the time complexity is not strongly polynomial. Aiming at such inefficiency, we then propose a new iterative algorithm that comprehensively leverages parametric flow and push-relabel maximal flow techniques. By analyzing the steps of the iterative algorithm, we show that the time complexity is strongly polynomial.
Clinical Value of EZH2 in Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Its Potential for Target Therapy
Authors: Bae An-Na , Jung Soo-Jung , Lee Jae-Ho , Lee Hyunsu , Park Seung Gyu
Published: January 2022

Background and objectives: EZH2 is overexpressed in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and is correlated with poor prognosis. However, its clinical significance and molecular mechanism have not been studied in HCC. In this study, clinical and prognostic values of EZH2 was studied using Total Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data and then, these data were confirmed in Huh1 and HepG2 cell lines. Materials and Methods: We used the TCGA database from cBioPortal. In addition, we analyzed EZH2 mRNA levels in HCC cell lines and its correlation with STAT3 and EZH2. Results: According to TCGA, EZH2 had a prognostic value in various cancers, especially in HCC. Furthermore, EZH2 in HCC was correlated with N stage (p = 0.045) and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) > 20 ng/mL (p < 0.01). However, a negative association between EZH2 and age (p = 0.027) was found. The overall survival result of HCC was significantly poorer in patients with high EZH2 expression. In addition, the recurrence rate was also significantly higher in patients with high expression of EZH2 than those with low expression (χ2 = 16.10, p < 0.001). EZH2 expression was negatively correlated with STAT3 expression among EZH2-associated genes (R = −0.163, p = 0.002). EZH2 expression level was down-regulated to 50% or less compared to the control group treated negative siRNA. MTT assays showed that EZH2-siRNA affected on the viability of HCC cell line significantly. Conclusions: In conclusion, the overexpression of EZH2 was an independent biomarker for poor outcomes of HCC. However, more in vivo studies are required to identify the downstream target genes in HCC to improve our understanding of the biological role of EZH2 in HCC.
The Role of the Immune Checkpoint Molecules PD-1/PD-L1 and TIM-3/Gal-9 in the Pathogenesis of Preeclampsia—A Narrative Review
Authors: Mittelberger Johanna , Seefried Marina , Franitza Manuela , Garrido Fabian , Ditsch Nina , Jeschke Udo , Dannecker Christian
Published: January 2022

Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-specific disease which is characterized by abnormal placentation, endothelial dysfunction, and systemic inflammation. Several studies have shown that the maternal immune system, which is crucial for maintaining the pregnancy by ensuring maternal-fetal-tolerance, is disrupted in preeclamptic patients. Besides different immune cells, immune checkpoint molecules such as the programmed cell death protein 1/programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-1/PD-L1 system) and the T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain-containing protein 3/Galectin-9 (TIM-3/Gal-9 system) are key players in upholding the balance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory signals. Therefore, a clear understanding about the role of these immune checkpoint molecules in preeclampsia is essential. This review discusses the role of these two immune checkpoint systems in pregnancy and their alterations in preeclampsia.
The Levels of Serum Serotonin Can Be Related to Skin and Pulmonary Manifestations of Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Petrić Marin , Perković Dijana , Božić Ivona , Marasović Krstulović Daniela , Martinović Kaliterna Dušanka
Published: January 2022

Background and Objective: The most prominent feature of systemic sclerosis (SSc), besides vasculopathy and autoimmune disorders, is excessive fibrosis. Serotonin affects hemostasis and can induce vasoconstriction, which is presumed to be one of the pathophysiological patterns in SSc that leads to fibrosis. Our aim was to explore the possible association of serotonin with some of the clinical features of SSc in our cohort of patients. Materials and Methods: We measured serotonin levels in sera of 29 female SSc patients. Patients were 41–79 years old, their average disease duration was 9 years. Serotonin values were analyzed in correlation with clinical and laboratory parameters, such as modified Rodnan skin score (mRSS), digital ulcers (DU), and spirometry parameters-forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC), and lung diffusion capacity of carbon monoxide (DLCO). Statistical analyses were performed using statistical software Statistica. Results: We found correlation of serotonin level with mRSS (r = 0.388, p = 0.038). The highest values of serotonin were documented in patients with refractory DU, but this was not statistically significant. We also found a negative correlation between serotonin and FVC (r = −0.397), although it did not reach the level of significance (p = 0.114). Conclusions: Our study suggests that levels of serum serotonin could affect the course of skin fibrosis and partially restrictive pulmonary dysfunction in patients with SSc. We assume that serotonin might have influence on several features of SSc, but more studies are needed to reveal those relations.
Borderline Personality Disorder “Discouraged Type”: A Case Report
Authors: Duică Lavinia , Antonescu Elisabeta , Totan Maria , Boța Gabriela , Silișteanu Sînziana Călina
Published: January 2022

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a mental illness associated with a significant degree of distress and impairment because of the difficulties in effectively regulating emotions. BPD is frequently associated with Depressive Disorders, most commonly Major Depressive Disorder and Dysthymia. Here, we present a case report of an 18-year-old female patient hospitalized with a severe depressive episode and psychotic symptoms. A few months after discharge, the interpersonal difficulties, unstable self-image, fear of chronic abandonment, feeling of emptiness, paranoid ideation, helplessness, obsessive-compulsive elements, perfectionism, and social retreat led to the patient’s impaired functionality. The spectrum of signs and symptoms presented were characteristic of BPD. The specific presentation of mixed dependent/avoidant pattern of personality, with persistent feelings of guilt and shame, social anxiety, emotional attachments, obsessions, and feelings of inadequacy have further narrowed the diagnosis to discouraged BPD, as described by Theodore Millon. In our case, this particular subtype of personality disorder can be understood as BPN associated with social perfectionism. Both BPD and perfectionism, as a trait personality, were thought to exacerbate issues with self-conception and identity formation in this patient.
What Are the Most Effective Factors in Determining Future Exacerbations, Morbidity Weight, and Mortality in Patients with COPD Attack?
Authors: Koç Çağla , Şahin Füsun
Published: January 2022

Background and Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the important factors that affect COPD prognosis. Materials and Methods: We included 160 hospitalized patients with COPD exacerbation in the study. The hemoglobin (HB), hematocrit (HCT), leukocytes, red cell distribution width (RDW), mean platelet volume, platelet distribution width, plateletcrits, platelets, neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio, platelet/lymphocyte ratio, eosinophils, uric acid, albumin, C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin, arterial blood gases (PO2 and PCO2), pulmonary function test (FEV1 and FVC), echocardiography (ejection fraction-EF), Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) stage, Modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) and Borg scales, Charlson comorbidity index, body mass index (BMI), and the length of hospital stay were examined on the first day of hospitalization. Admission to the hospital with a new attack, hospitalization in the intensive care unit (ICU), and mortality during the six months after discharge were evaluated. Results: High CRP and procalcitonin levels were observed in the group with a long hospital stay. In the mortality group, the HB, HCT, BMI, and PO2 values were significantly lower than in the group without mortality, while the age and GOLD stage were higher. The age, Borg and mMRC scores, number of exacerbations experienced in the previous year, RDW, eosinophil count, and PCO2 were significantly higher in the ICU group than that without an ICU stay. The HCT and EF values were lower in the ICU group than that without an ICU stay. The FEV1 and FVC values were significantly lower in the follow-up attack group than those without a follow-up attack. The duration of COPD and the number of attacks that were experienced in the previous year were high. Conclusion: Scoring combining selected biomarkers and other factors is a strong determinant of the prognosis.
Doppler Echocardiography-Guided Heart Rate Modulation Therapy Using Ivabradine in a Patient with Systolic Heart Failure
Authors: Imamura Teruhiko , Kinugawa Koichiro
Published: January 2022

Heart rate reduction using ivabradine, a selective If channel blocker that purely decreases heart rate without affecting hemodynamics, improves clinical outcomes in patients with systolic heart failure. However, the ideal heart rate that should be a target remains unknown. Our team recently proposed a methodology using Doppler echocardiography to estimate ideal heart rate, at which E-wave and A-wave stand adjacent without overlap. However, the implication of Doppler echocardiography-guided heart rate modulation therapy using ivabradine remains uncertain. We had a 72-year-old man with systolic heart failure and sinus tachycardia who initiated ivabradine therapy. Ivabradine dose was adjusted between 5.0 mg/day and 10.0 mg/day and continued for 12 weeks to minimize the overlap between the two echocardiography waves, accompanying improvement in cardiac output, left ventricular ejection fraction, plasma B-type natriuretic peptide, and six-minute walk distance. Doppler echocardiography-guided heart rate regulation therapy using ivabradine may be a promising strategy to improve cardiac function and clinical outcomes in patients with systolic heart failure, although further studies are required to validate this hypothesis.
A Meta-Analysis: Coronary Artery Calcium Score and COVID-19 Prognosis
Authors: Lee Kevin Kyungmin , Rahimi Osman , Lee Charlie Kyungchan , Shafi Amaan , Hawwass Dalia
Published: January 2022

Background: Multiple studies have investigated the correlations of mortality, mechanical ventilation, and intensive care unit (ICU) admissions with CAC scores. This analysis overviews the prognostic capability of CAC scoring in mortality, mechanical ventilation, and ICU admission for hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Methods: Online search was conducted on PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Scopus from inception to 22 November 2021 to identify studies involving CAC scores in relation to ICU admission, mechanical ventilation, and death rates. Results: A total of eight studies were analyzed. In the absence of CAC group compared with the presence of CAC score, there was an increase in mortality in the presence of CAC (RR 2.24, 95% CI, 1.41–3.56; p < 0.001). In the low CAC group and high CAC group, high CAC group had increase in mortality (RR 2.74; 95% CI, 1.94–3.86; p < 0.00001). There was no statistical difference in outcomes of mechanical ventilation and ICU admission between any of the groups. Conclusion: This meta-analysis strictly examined the outcomes of interest in death, mechanical ventilation, and ICU admission while comparing the CAC scores in patients with COVID-19. Given these findings, CAC scoring can aid in stratifying patients, thus allowing earlier interventions in rapidly developing illnesses.
Characterization of PBI/Graphene Oxide Composite Membranes for the SO2 Depolarized Electrolysis at High Temperature
Authors: Diaz-Abad Sergio , Fernández-Mancebo Sandra , Rodrigo Manuel A. , Lobato Justo
Published: January 2022

In this work, polybenzimidazole (PBI) membranes with different graphene oxide (GO) contents (0.5, 1.0, 2.0, and 3.0 wt %) as organic filler have been prepared. The X-ray diffraction confirms the incorporation of the filler into the polymeric membrane. The composite GO-based PBI membranes show better proton conductivity at high temperature (110–170 °C) than the pristine one. Moreover, the hydrophobicity of the PBI membranes is also improved, enhancing water management. The chemical stability demonstrates the benefit of the incorporation of GO in the PBI matrix. What is more, the composite PBI-based membranes show better phosphoric acid retention capability. For the first time, the results of the SO2-depolarized electrolysis for hydrogen production at high temperature (130 °C) using phosphoric acid-doped polybenzimidazole (PBI) membranes with the different GO contents are shown. The benefit of the organic filler is demonstrated, as H2SO4 production is 1.5 times higher when the membrane with a content of 1 wt % of GO is used. Moreover, three times more hydrogen is produced with the membrane containing 2 wt % of GO compared with the non-modified membrane. The obtained results are very promising and provide open research for this kind of composite membranes for green hydrogen production by the Westinghouse cycle.
The Emergence and Impact of Ethylene Scavengers Techniques in Delaying the Ripening of Fruits and Vegetables
Authors: Mariah Mohd Affandy Aqilah , Vonnie Joseph Merillyn , Erna Kana Husna , Nur’Aqilah Nasir Md , Huda Nurul , Abdul Wahab Roswanira , Rovina Kobun
Published: January 2022

As the top grocery list priorities, the primary challenge when purchasing fruits and vegetables from supermarkets is obtaining fresh, minimally processed perishable goods. This source of diet is critical for obtaining vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fibres. However, the short shelf life caused by moisture content in rapid deterioration and decay caused by microbial growth, results in unappealing appearances. Fruits and vegetables undergo ripening and eventually the ageing process, in which the tissues of the plants degrade. Even after harvesting, numerous biological processes occur, generating a significant variation of ethylene production along with respiration rates between fruits and vegetables. Thus, the utilization of ethylene scavengers in food packaging or films has been revealed to be beneficial. The synergistic effects of these biomaterials have been demonstrated to reduce microorganisms and prolong the shelf life of greens due to antimicrobial activity, oxygen scavenging capacity, enzyme immobilization, texture enhancers, and nutraceuticals. The current review fills this void by discussing the most recent advances in research on ethylene scavengers and removal mechanisms of ethylene, including oxidation in fruit and vegetable packaging. The application and advantages of ethylene scavengers in packaging are then discussed with the addition of how the efficiency related to ethylene scavengers can be increased through atmospheric packaging tools. In this context, the article discusses characteristics, types of applications, and efficacy of ethylene control strategies for perishable commodities with the inclusion of future implications.
Autotrophic Acetate Production under Hydrogenophilic and Bioelectrochemical Conditions with a Thermally Treated Mixed Culture
Authors: Cristiani Lorenzo , Ferretti Jacopo , Majone Mauro , Villano Marianna , Zeppilli Marco
Published: January 2022

Bioelectrochemical systems are emerging technologies for the reduction in CO2 in fuels and chemicals, in which anaerobic chemoautotrophic microorganisms such as methanogens and acetogens are typically used as biocatalysts. The anaerobic digestion digestate represents an abundant source of methanogens and acetogens microorganisms. In a mixed culture environment, methanogen’s inhibition is necessary to avoid acetate consumption by the presence of acetoclastic methanogens. In this study, a methanogenesis inhibition approach based on the thermal treatment of mixed cultures was adopted and evaluated in terms of acetate production under different tests consisting of hydrogenophilic and bioelectrochemical experiments. Batch experiments were carried out under hydrogenophilic and bioelectrochemical conditions, demonstrating the effectiveness of the thermal treatment and showing a 30 times higher acetate production with respect to the raw anaerobic digestate. Moreover, a continuous flow bioelectrochemical reactor equipped with an anion exchange membrane (AEM) successfully overcomes the methanogens reactivation, allowing for a continuous acetate production. The AEM membrane guaranteed the migration of the acetate from the biological compartment and its concentration in the abiotic chamber avoiding its consumption by acetoclastic methanogenesis. The system allowed an acetate concentration of 1745 ± 30 mg/L in the abiotic chamber, nearly five times the concentration measured in the cathodic chamber.